JoanB

In the realm of Chiji, a mythical world where hidden powers lie. Chaos rules because a few became drunk with power and abused it. And inflicted a terrible balance upon the plains and brought chaos to Chiji. From this, opposition rises and plots. And so, the people forget the good deeds of a few power wielders. 

Somehow, in a magic-imbued past, where the longing whispers of Xinyi to Ming resonate, the whims of fate which will bring change can be heard. 

What did the whispers say?

Governor Ming hates this arranged marriage to Xinyi and doesn't want to do anything with her.

Will love bloom in time for the loveless couple as they work together?

Only with curiosity may one find the answers...

However, out from these devastating times, a Sorceress will bloom and slowly bring balance to this world.

(Note: This is mainly a fantasy genre and not romance, although it started with the love story between the female and male leads. So, please don't focus on romance here. This is the journey of a woman who became the Sorceress.)

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They were married through the imperial edict, and she expected much from it. However, on their wedding night…

"In fairness, I'll be honest with you. I don't like you. I prefer to marry someone I choose. From this day forth, you're to live in Anjing Pavilion" said Lei Ming with no reservations.

She was aggrieved to be disregarded and unfairly discarded. 

"Wait!" shouted Xinyi.

Pestered, Lei Ming halted but didn't look back. "What now?" 

"I'm grateful for sending me there, Lord husband, but please don't miss sending my allowance and I promise I will not show up and bother you," said Xinyi and bowed piously. 

"The heck, this woman is totally shameless."

Xinyi watched Lei Ming's back as he walked away. As he was out of earshot, she gave a careless smile and rested her palms on her waist.

"This is totally unexpected. What a farce of a marriage. So what? I don't care too..." she said as she suddenly jumped and swirled around in glee.

But… an unexpected encounter under the moonlight changed everything. Most of all, when he discovered he was meant to protect his wife. 

----- o -----
TAKE NOTE: 
1.) There is no sex but have some violence during wars and fights. Do know that romance is not the primary focus. Prepare for an adventurous ride in the story. 

2.) The story is not totally under the Chinese background. This is a different world, and every nation had their own backgrounds. So, I don't follow the Chinese way of naming and calling of characters. Like using their full names when I mention them, even with the greetings.

2.) Please buy this author a coffee to keep me alert when writing and to help pay for the daughter's college fees: [ko-fi.com/elijoneb]

3.) Please support my latest book: Blue Hells. It's a sci-fi and game combo. If you love action and adventure, this is for you.
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Note: 
*I want to thank Forsaken123, another author here, for his help and insights in the earlier chapters of this book.

*My daughter, Asha, made the cover.

The Sorceress: Blossoming Power

Ming and Xinyi met people going back to Niú fāng Village, a rice farmers' village. The villagers recognized him and greeted.

"Oh my, Governor, why are you here?" the village chief asked, walking toward them with hunched back and hands behind. He was an old man with a long beard up to his chest.

"Sire, I'm here to inspect the farms after the war."

"Oh my, you need not worry, Sire. We're thankful that the war ended soon. As you can see, the rice heads are now ready for harvesting. It's our pleasure if you'll come during the harvest feast that will be two days from now."

"I'll be here. Just go on with your harvest. My wife and I will walk around and meet the other villagers."

"As you wish, Sire." The man bowed to the couple and pulled a sickle from a barn. The villagers also bowed regarding them but went on with their task.

At this moment, Xinyi felt a burning heat on her chest. "Ming?" She clasped Ming's arm.

The Anklet