Goodbyes

Upon returning home there was a big celebration with lots of good food and firecrackers. I received many congratulations but also many seemed to glare with jealousy. Little did they know how scared I was to move to the Forbidden palace. But I must be strong for my family, show face and make them proud. My mother of course was gleaming with excitement the entire night.

After the party I lay in bed unable to sleep so I decide to light some incenses and pray to the Lotus Blossom Goddess. She has always been my guide ever since I can remember. That night when I finally found sleep, I also found the goddess waiting for me. Sitting in the middle of a large pond on a very large lotus blossom. Her beauty so bright that it is hard to stare, but her voice smooth as silk draws you in.

"Dearest I know you are scared but rest assured you are on the path to your destiny. Remain strong but let your kind heart guide you, it will find you happiness and surprise others" the goddess said. Then I felt a heaviness around my neck, reaching up I felt a necklace. "This gift will provide you protection and luck, never find yourself without it" It was a long silver chain and had a lotus flower charm with a gem in the middle that sparkled with all the colors of the rainbow. It was very delicate but also extremely beautiful.

I woke up with my fingers still around the charm. Smiling to myself, I thanked the Goddess. I will follow my destiny and my heart. Today I will start my new life, in the palace.

"You seem to be in better spirits today young miss" said Huiqing as she helped my mother do my hair. I smiled at her in reply. My mother however had barely said a word all morning and was silently helping which wasn't like her. Lightly touching her hand I asked "Is there something bothering you? I thought you were so honored to be sending me off today?" She looked at me through the mirror "My blossom I am so honored words cannot describe, however I am also saying goodbye to special flower" a tear ran down her face. I immediately stood up and we embraced "Mother I will see you in the future, a better future". She smiled still with tears in her eyes "Our visits will be very few though and dear we won't be able to see you till after you give the Emperor a child. But with luck that will be very soon" as she spoke she looked down at my necklace. What?! How does she know?

"My blossom she has always visited my dreams since I had you" she said and gave me another long hug. Huiqing has returned from preparing all my things "Miss it's time to go, everything is ready and your father said he wants you to be a early to show punctually" Swiftly I said good bye to my family, hugging my young siblings and reminding them to be good and listen. Trying to keep the goodbyes as tearless and cheerful as possible. My father gave me a tight hug and smiled saying "Make us proud, our beautiful lotus blossom".

Then I was off with Huiqing in tow, who will be my dowry maid and come with me to live in the palace. I feel stronger knowing I will have a constant friend. We shall start this new life together.