[China-inspired] The Ballad of Mu Guiying

The Story:
Mu Guiying is a legendary heroine from the ancient China's Northern Song Dynasty. Born from a bandit father, she was taught martial arts since a very young age. One day, the Imperial Army led by the handsome and brave general Yang Zongbao arrived to suppress the bandits - her family. Mu Guiying challenged and won a duel against Yang. Almost like bound by a string of fate, they quickly fell in love. Yang came from a famous family whose generations have been loyal generals to the Song. In order to be married into the Yang family, Mu and her family had to wash their hands off their criminal occupation. Mu herself had to pass several ordeals to be recognized as their daughter-in-law.

Soon after the marriage, the Khitan invaded Song; Yang Zongbao and his father hurried their troops to the border. They fought against Khitan fiercely but got betrayed and captured. Enraged by the news, Mu Guiying still freshly in her crimson bridal robes raised her own banner and stormed out to the rescue. Her heroic spirit was supported by the widows and daughters of the Yang family and they all became the legendary female warriors of the Yang family. Mu Guiying played a huge part in winning the following battles against the Khitan forces in their repeated attempts to invading Song. Her spoil of victory against the previously unstoppable Heavenly Gate Formation of the Khitan was made into the famous Peking Opera "Mu Guiying Takes Command".

The creator's note:
When I was a kid, I remember watching this chinese period drama with my mom. The lady left a huge impression on me. Brave, witty and fiercely loyal, she is the symbol of (my) perfect woman. Back when putting an outfit together, I had an image of Turandot in mind but it lacks the grandiosity portrayed in the (beloved) opera - I had everything for Calaf and Liu done but nothing else could match the Imperial Outfit for Turandot. Yet, I was entranced by the silhouette and playing around with the crimson hue quickly opened my eyes: holy shit, Mu Guiying!!! Yes, it's her! Badassery even in her modest bridal clothes. The general shape matches with the period costumes and the neckline could pass for some improvised drama settings. Dyes are simple: mostly red with some golden accessory. I leave my character's hair flowing and adorn it with a small golden headdress. I think it looks lovelier than actually have a real (big) bridal headdress. There are not many props which could fit an ancient chinese theme so pardon me for not taking many screenshots. Even though it is significantly out of place, I love that many friends of mine recognize the chinese theme right away - for those who are more "white" and dense, I eventually shoved them a chinese lute song to have them admit it (lol). All in all, it's a fun project as I have never been afraid of breaking immersion of those around me. It's also quite personal to me with the strong nostalgia. So, here to share.