[Cao Zhi] The Tale of Grace and Flowers

Cao Zhi had been standing beneath the plum tree for who knew how long, his clothes imbued with the scent of plum blossoms.

He was so serene and graceful, like a figure in a painting, as if the Qingzhou Army's rebellion outside had nothing to do with him, as if the army of Young Master Cao Zhang pressing at the gates had nothing to do with him either.

Cao Zhi's profile faced the clear sunlight, a trace of melancholy mingling with his smile. "Even the greatest glory will become a relic in the blink of an eye. People are like these petals, always at risk of falling in this mortal world. Who can expect their fragrance to linger for generations?"

Sima Yi gazed at him without blinking, feeling, in a strange way, that he himself was filthy. His malicious thoughts seemed to lie exposed before Cao Zhi, leaving him unsettled and shaken. Even so, Sima Yi smiled slowly.

"It seems there's no need to say anything more. Thank you for making your decision, Young Master."

He turned and walked away, his retreating figure looking utterly carefree.