The Return of Majestic Beauty

Every Friday, a column in NST RED will feature an article written by me. It's all about the unique spaces which I have come across that provide interesting or unusual experiences. 

Yes, the stories I write for NST RED can be about anything as long as it is related to spaces/places. After all, the RED in NST RED stands for Real Estate & Decor.

So, this Friday 18th January 2013 - I have written an article about the much anticipated re-opening of The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur. 

As there are always "constraints" in the newspapers' publication, this is the full version with extra pictures and information. 

THE RETURN OF MAJESTIC BEAUTY

It is becoming almost a rarity these days to be able to walk through conserved old historical buildings, as many are being torn down and replaced by new modern structures. However, it is only through the architecture and monuments of the old which we can catch a glimpse of a country’s heritage and culture. So much of who we are as a citizen or a nation is carved into all the old buildings. The great Winston Churchill said, “We shape our buildings; thereafter, our buildings shape us.”

The Majestic Lobby

As Malaysians, we are fortunate to have corporations like YTL Hotels, which invests in the restoration of heritage buildings. They help keep our architectural lineage alive for future generations to come. YTL Hotels owns and manages an impressive portfolio of award-winning resorts, hotels, spa villages in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, China, Japan, France and the United Kingdom.

The Reception

After nearly 30 years of absence, YTL has made it possible for a well-regarded nobility to return to the Kuala Lumpur landscape by the re-opening of The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur. This is the second Majestic Hotel after the property in Melaka that bears the same name.

Reception Area

The Majestic Kuala Lumpur holds a rich history which prided itself as the grandest hotel during her hey days. This grand dame hosted dignitaries, celebrities and politicians of that time. Now, her majesty has returned once again to grace the city which has missed her characteristic presence deeply.

The View Of The Tower Wing

Majestic Restoration

The Majesty Hotel Kuala Lumpur reopened in December 2012 after a long massive reconstruction. It comprises of the four different buildings: Majestic Wing, Tower Wing, Majestic Spa and The Smoke House. The Majestic Wing, Majestic Spa and The Smoke House are housed in the original historical structure. The Tower Wing is a completely new addition to the entire building. The original architect was the Dutch Van Leangeanderg, who designed and built it in 1932.

The Pool at the Tower Wing

In the redevelopment of “Her Royal Highness” to her former glory, YTL entrusted the honour to Zaidan Tahir almost a decade ago. He is the same architect who had worked his magic on “The Majestic” in Melaka and “The Cameron Highlands Resort” of YTL.

The Roof Top Garden at the Tower Wing

The Original Dome 

Zaidan and his team did a remarkable job in preserving the nostalgic 1930’s ambience within the Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, as well as its classic facade. While he adhered to the art deco influences of the era, he added his own interpretation of elegance to the whole design of the hotel. Zaidan shared, “We wanted to maintain the look and feel of the place but, at the same time, give it new life. For example, we kept the dome roof in the entrance hall but we added the gold leaf, which has livened up the room.” 

Majestic Wing and Tower Wing

As one wanders through the hallways and every floor of the Majestic Hotel, one cannot help but imagine the golden days of hospitability of this establishment. It is as if time stood still within the realms of this resplendent hotel. 

Nostalgic Hallway

I had the priviledge to be taken on a personal tour of the revitalized property by Ms. Izan Yusuff, the Director of Public Relations of YTL Hotels. She informed me that the Majestic Wing only houses suites. Each suite comes with complete the claw foot bathtubs and personal butlers. 

The Governor Suite's Living Room

The Governor Suite's Bedroom

Breakfasts are even served in the privacy of the suites, delivered by the personal butlers at the guests’ preferred times. There are 18 Colonial Suites, 15 Governor Suites and 2 Majestic Suites in the Majestic Wing. I especially adored the bathroom tiles of the Majestic Wing’s suites. They are the “Metro Beveled Edged” white tiles that are also used in the “London Underground”. Imagine the extent of classic details embedded into these suites. 

The Claw Foot Bath Tub

Those who long to re-live the glory of colonial days, the suites in the Majestic Wing would be the perfect choice. The Majestic Wing remains Izan’s favourite section of the hotel because she used to visit the original Majestic Hotel with her parents as a child. This is indeed a “personal revisit” for her in many ways. 

The Governor Suite's Bathroom

For guests who crave a more contemporary accommodation, the Tower Wing provides 176 Deluxe Rooms, 55 Junior Suites, 11 Grand Suites and 11 Premier Suites. All the rooms in the Tower Wing are modern rendition of the hotel’s art deco style. 

The Deluxe Room in Tower Wing

Zaidan explained that, “The Art Deco period represents luxury, glamour, exuberance and technological progress, which I found would be the best concept for the interior of this new building, elements of which are found in the old building.” Opulence is not lacking in any of the Tower Wing fashionable rooms. Every decorative item has been personally selected and designed by Zaidan. Hence, the exterior and interior of the hotel pervade in the same architectural language and theme.   

Majestic Spa

The garage and staff quarters of the old wing have been transformed into a double storey Spa. 

Majestic Spa Reception Area

The Majestic Spa is very much infused with the designs of the world famous Scottish architect, designer and artist: Charles Rennie Mackinstosh. Here, one would find art nouveau converged with the old world of British Malaya. Even the spa menu reads like an English Afternoon Tea Party. Lavender, the flower, its scent and the colour, plays a central role in the Majestic Spa. 

Prelude to Spa Treatments: Foot Bath 

An additional special feature of the Spa is its pool that overlooks the Moorish Heritage Train Station. Before a treatment begins, every guest will be treated to a foot soak or bath. They will be enjoying this prelude to their spa treatment at the second storey lounge area of the spa. There is nothing more luxurious than soaking up the ambience of this very majestic spa and being pampered from head to toe.  

Spa Pool with a View

If the spa treatments are not enticing enough, one could easily relax in the Smoke House of the Majestic Wing. The Smoke House is the only place in the entire property that one could still smoke indoors. It is a games room of sorts. As soon as you open the doors, a Billiard’s Table in the middle of the room greets you. 

The Smoke House

There is a bar, cigar room, card room, private dining area complete with a showcase kitchen, a living room with the state of art visual and audio systems, and that is not all. 

The Audio Visual Area of Smoke House

As one ventures down the stairs to the lower ground of the Smoke House, one would find a 12 seater Private Screening Room and a Gentleman’s Barber with its own bespoke tailor on call, and shoe shine services. Yes, the men can enjoy their own “personal grooming” here.

The Screening Room

The Gentleman's Personal Grooming Space

A Room of Ten Thousand Perpetual Blooms

One of the highlights of the Majestic Hotel is the “Orchid Conservatory Room”. This may be the first hotel in Malaysia that could boast of having a dedicated conservatory to orchids. 

Orchids Galore

The temperature in this room is set to a constant 22 to 24 Celsius degrees. It is a unique space specially built to connect the new and old wings of the hotel. It measures no more than 28 feet by 50 feet. Izan said that conservatory is nicknamed, “a place of ten thousand perpetual blooms.” 

Perfect Spot for Afternoon Tea

A local renowned orchid cultivator and enthusiast, Steven Cheong, is responsible for maintaining and changing these splendid local varieties known as the Phalaenopsis. As Steven explained that the Phalaenopsis is “relatively easy to grow and care for, thriving especially in a controlled climate environment.” All I could do was swoon at the sight of this stunning conservatory. Enjoying one’s afternoon tea amid these elegant blooms would be a true delight.

Colonial Café and Contango

Apart from the traditional English Afternoon Teas, the Majestic Hotel offers two very distinctive dining choices. The first is the “Colonial Café”, prized for its traditional dishes such as the “Oxtail Soup”, the “Potterhaus Steak”, “Hainanese Chicken Chop”, “Chicken Rice Balls” and “Ayam Kunyit” just to name a few.

Colonial Cafe

Heritage Recipes

Some may have not be aware that the hotel’s Executive Chef Mohammad Ali Kunhi had actually undergone an “intensive training course” with the YTL owners’ mother, Puan Sri Datin Seri Kai Yong. Therefore, Chef Mohammad had actually learnt the traditional “colonial” recipes directly from a very special individual. These are what I’d call “heritage recipes”, as they have been passed down from one generation to another, unadulterated by the modern changing flavours. For example, the sauce for the “Ayam Kunyit” takes more than 20 hours to prepare in order to achieve its authentic taste and flavour. There are no short cuts here. Therefore, if one would like to experience the flavours of the old British Malaya, then the “Colonial Café” is the place to go. Some may be surprised or unaccustomed to the “original” tastes of these dishes, but do know that they are definitely as authentic as it comes. After all, Chef Mohammad has made sure that he had acquired the exact measurements of all the ingredients to each recipe from Puan Sri Datin Seri Kai Yong and worked to perfect them.

Contango and their savy Chefs

The second dining option in the Majestic Kuala Lumpur is “Contango”. Chef Mohammad fondly describes “Contango” as an interactive dining experience. 

The Western Station at Contango

Although the lay out of the restaurant is similar to a buffet of two exclusive stations, it is so much more than a “normal” buffet styled dining. Diners at “Contango” are actually encouraged to speak with the chefs at each cooking stations, and then the chefs would customize the dish to suit each diner’s palate. The two stations offer an International and Asian cuisine.

The Asian Station at Contango

I must say that “Contango” offers a diverse and vast menu. They make their own freshly baked breads, pastas, salads, sushi, ice creams, and there is even a Churrasco. One can literally order anything and the chefs of each station will gladly cook it and serve it up. What’s more, the restaurant changes its menu selection during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Chef Mohammad is constantly challenging himself and his team to create something new while infusing the local flavours with various spices.

Each of Contango’s station invites the diner to create what they like, as they like it. I was most thrilled to find that I could make my own version of “rojak buah” and add the fruits which I liked best. However, my natural gravitational pull was towards the Dessert Bar. “Contango” has an impressive selection of homemade ice creams which range from the usual flavours to “Cempedak”, “Calamansi” and “Durian.”

Delectable Desserts with Berry Sago on Display

My personal favourite at “Contango” is the “Berry Sago Dessert”. You just have to come and taste it for yourself. If you want to fully enjoy this dessert, I strongly recommend that you add a scoop of “Strawberry” ice cream to it. Trust me, it tastes simply divine.

Private Dining Area in The Smoke House

As they say in YTL, “Sometimes the resurrection of a Hotel can herald a second renaissance.” It is indeed a pleasure to welcome back a magnificent structure such as The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur. May “Her Majesty” remain with us for many years to come, so that future generations may also experience its rich heritage. Like a “Sleeping Beauty”, SHE has awakened to stir our long cherished memories and to assist us in making new ones.

So, whether you choose to come to The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur for the glorious food, or you’ve come to savour the history of the hotel, you would no doubt experience something marvelous here. At every corner, lovely surprises await you. Come expecting nothing, but leave with your very own majestic moment.

Chapter Five: EAST OF THE HEART

Chapter Five: The Great Plan

1925 – George Town, Penang

Mei Yee did not go down to the formal dining room to join Mrs. Wong and the other ladies in the household for dinner. In fact, she had not left her room since her late lunch. Ah Ping conveyed to the matriarch of the Wong family that Mei Yee was suffering from a splitting headache, and had requested to be allowed to rest in her attic room. Mrs. Wong, who was only concerned that the bride-to-be must be well and prepared for the wedding ceremony, gladly granted Mei Yee the leave of absence. She then took the liberty to arrange a light dinner to be sent up to Mei Yee.

Ah Ping knew only too well that her mistress had lost all her appetite to eat. When she returned to the attic with the dinner tray, she found Mei Yee staring out of the window. The sun had already set, leaving the sky with a charcoal grey hue. There was no wind or stars, only a melancholy stillness to accompany the devastated Mei Yee. Ah Ping did not utter a single word but quietly placed the dinner tray on the table, and left the room. She was careful not to disturb her mistress who was deep in her thoughts, and wrought up over her feelings.

As Mei Yee gazed into the darkness of the city, her mind returned to her mother in Fujian. She was still much incensed with hostility against her mother. She kept asking, WHY? WHY? WHY would her own mother do this to her? The more she questioned, the more hateful she became towards her mother. There would be no forgiveness from her. She was unrelenting. In truth, she would no longer regard herself as a part of the “Lim family”. Most of all, she would cease carrying the responsibility of honouring the family’s name. They had clearly meant to abandon her in the worst possible way. Hence, Mei Yee would reciprocate with the same renunciation. She reached into her silken pocket and took out the jade bracelet that her mother had given her before she left the village.

Ever since Mei Yee arrived in Penang, she has been holding onto the bracelet like it was a priceless treasure. She did not even dare wear the bracelet, as she felt that she was unworthy. The jade bracelet was the only connection she had to her mother and her village. So, she kept it in her pocket and only held it each time she felt homesick. However, now looking at it, she felt nothing but disgust. Mei Yee took hold of the bracelet and smashed it on the windowpane. The crackling sounds reverberated with Mei Yee’s shattered heart. Then Mei Yee flung the broken pieces of the jade out of the window. That very ritual sealed her status as an orphan. She then erased all the memories of her past. She made a vow that she would not shed another tear for as long as she lived.

The very next morning when Ah Ping came to the room with a breakfast tray, she announced that Mrs. Wong had excused Mei Yee for the entire day. Mrs. Wong wanted to make sure that her soon-to-be daughter-in-law was well rested. Mei Yee was thankful for not having to appear before the rest of the ladies in the family. She still did not know how to face Ai Ling and Sun Lee. Knowing what she knew now, she could not bring herself to be in the same room as the two women. Despite how much she could feel their contempt for her, she felt she deserved every ounce of it.

“I need you to do something very important for me, Ah Ping.” Mei Yee said in a somber tone. 

   

Ah Ping’s heart skipped a beat. This was the first time she has ever heard her mistress speak in such a grave voice. Instantly, she stopped clearing the breakfast tray and stood still.

“Yes, mistress Mei Yee. What would you like me to do for you?” Ah Ping was almost afraid to hear her mistress’s answer.

“There is no one here that I trust, but you. I need you to promise me that you will do this for me and you will not tell a single soul.” Mei Yee stared hard at her personal attendant friend.

Ah Ping kept silent but nodded her head.

“Can I really count on you, Ah Ping?” Mei Yee asked firmly.

Ah Ping nodded again, without saying a word.

“I mean it. You cannot tell anyone, and you must do exactly as I tell you. You promise?” Mei Yee insisted.

Ah Ping finally replied, “Yes. I promise, mistress.”

“Good. I am really counting on you. So, please do not let me down.” Mei Yee said seriously.

“I will not let you down, mistress. I really promise.” Ah Ping assured her mistress.

“All right. I believe you. Now, this is what I want you to do for me.” Mei Yee said and pulled Ah Ping closer to her. She proceeded to whisper her instructions into Ah Ping’s ears.

Before Mei Yee could finish her sentences, Ah Ping’s face turned white. She looked at her mistress in disbelief.

“But mistress…” Ah Ping began, but Mei Yee stopped her from speaking further.

“It is what I want you to do and you already promised me that you will carry it out for me. So, please save your words. Say no more. Just do the deed as I have instructed.” Mei Yee was adamant.

Ah Ping was too shocked to move or blink. She continued to stare at her mistress with fear in her eyes.

“This is really what I want. So, please go now and get it done for me. I shall wait for your return. Again, remember not a word to anyone about this.” Mei Yee warned Ah Ping.

As Ah Ping did not budge, Mei Yee stood up from the chair and pushed her out of the door.

“Do not come back until you have got it. Please make sure that no one sees you. Wrap it carefully in your handkerchief. Now, go!” With those words, Mei Yee closed the door behind Ah Ping.

The young personal attendant stood outside her mistress’s door for a while. She did not know what she should do, but she had already made a promise. Thus, she must fulfill that promise. After she had gathered herself, she walked towards the small door and disappeared into the network of stairs and alleys behind the walls. She headed towards the direction of the main kitchen. Despite how deeply perplexed she felt, Ah Ping knew that she had to make good on her promise to her mistress. So, she walked silently with tears running down her face.

The sun had risen directly above the Wong mansion, casting a scorching heat upon all its inhabitants. It was exactly noon sharp when Ah Ping returned to the attic. This time, she brought a tray containing a teapot and two small teacups. Mei Yee had been waiting for her anxiously. When she saw Ah Ping, she immediately pulled her to the middle of the room.

“Have you got what I asked you to bring? “ Mei Yee asked eagerly.

“Yes, but…” Before Ah Ping could finish her sentence, Mei Yee directed her to show the requested item.

Ah Ping gave a heavy sigh and reached into her pocket. She took out a carefully wrapped handkerchief. There was something inside it. Together, the two ladies stood staring at the object in Ah Ping’s hand.

“Are you sure this is it?” Mei Yee had to be certain. There was no room for mistakes.

“Yes, I extracted it myself from the kitchen storage.” Ah Ping explained.

“And no one saw you in all this time?” Mei Yee asked nervously.

“No one saw me.” Ah Ping replied with sadness.

“Good. Very good. Thank you for doing this for me. I am very grateful. Now, please leave the handkerchief on the tray and go. I need to be alone.” Mei Yee spoke in her serious tone again.

Ah Ping did not want to leave and yet she knew that it was pointless in staying. Her mistress had made up her mind and there was nothing she could say or do. A part of her felt responsible for what her mistress was about to do.

Sensing Ah Ping’s reluctance to depart from the room, Mei Yee said, “I do thank you for everything that you have done for me, Ah Ping. You are the only person who has been kind to me without asking for anything in return. I wish there was a way I could repay you, but it has to be in another lifetime. You must leave me now. Thank you again.”

Tears started swelling in Ah Ping’s eyes again. She could not help herself. Mei Yee walked towards the crying girl and embraced her like a sister would.

“There now. Don’t be silly. Everything will be fine after this. Don’t cry anymore.” Mei Yee said gently.

Ah Ping held Mei Yee tightly and sobbed even more. After she had recovered, Mei Yee reminded her that it was time to go. Silently, Ah Ping walked out of the attic room and collapsed outside the door. She buried her head between her knees and continued to cry uncontrollably.

Inside the room, Mei Yee was re-arranging the tray to face her. She admired the pretty china teapot and teacups. Mrs. Wong certainly had a refined taste in everything she bought. The blue intricate designs on the china suggested an artistic influence of the Ming dynasty. Hence, they must have been very expensive. The Wongs would certainly not use anything less.

Mei Yee smiled as she poured the tea into the two cups. Then with great care, she unwrapped the handkerchief. Nestled in the white cotton fabric, was a folded piece of pink paper. After spreading out the paper, she could see the white powder. Ah Ping had delivered her promise, and brought the rat poison to Mei Yee.

Such a small amount it was, but fatal enough to kill a buffalo, Mei Yee mused.

Mei Yee lifted the pink paper and dropped the powder into one of the teacups. Nothing was wasted. Everything dissolved into the tea instantly.

Before her, sat the two beautiful teacups – one was filled with an ordinary Oolong tea, and the other was drenched in rat poison.

Mei Yee had two options laid out in front of her.

Option one – drink the ordinary Oolong tea and get married in less than 2 weeks. Her husband would never really be her husband in every sense of the word. In fact, she may not even see much of her husband. They may never be in the same room if Mrs. Wong had her way. From the wedding night onwards, Mei Yee would have to surrender to the fact that she was to be desecrated by her husband’s elder brothers. They each would take their turn in violating her until she was pregnant with child. However, if the child she bore was not a male child then the process would be repeated until the profane mission was accomplished. She would have to continue living in the household pretending that it was all a natural course of propagation, and not some repulsive fornication. She would have to look at the grim faces of her sisters-in-law every single day and feign her innocence in the whole marital charade. As long as Mei Yee complied with the Wong family, she would live in the confines of opulence, abundance and extravagance. She would never have to worry about not having enough to eat or wear. Mrs. Wong would ensure that everything would be provided for her. However, the real question remained tugging at her mind. Could she really live every day of the rest of her life like that? And if she could not and would not, then she would have to seriously consider the second teacup.

Option two – drink the rat poison infused tea and die instantly. Her life would end and everything would stop here. There would be no wedding, no husband and no dishonoring of her entire being by her husband’s brothers. There would be no future, no fear, and no shame. Along with those, there would also be the death of her hopes and dreams. She would not have any opportunity to make something of herself. Most of all, there would be no chance at real happiness and a life worth living. All would be lost and denied from the moment her last breath left her body. Could she really condemn herself to a life cut short due to the offensive circumstances? Would she not regret? More than anything else, all Mei Yee wanted was a chance – a chance to live a life defined by her own terms. Could she really go through with killing herself? Did she really want to die in the first place?

Mei Yee sat for what seemed like an eternity, staring at the two teacups. Each presented two very different and frightening paths. Yet that was all she had. There was nothing else left for her. Both of the options were variations of Hell – one was on earth and the other would take place in the after-life. None of them were good enough, but what could she do?

Unwilling to abdicate the possibility of a better future for herself, she hacked into the deep recesses of her mind and forced herself to think very hard. She desperately needed a third option. Is there one to be found?

Then it hit her. 

The third option uncloaked the confusion in her mind. It came to her like a flash of lightning. 

The third option showed her what she had to do. If she planned it well and did it right, she would have a chance. Within Mei Yee, hope began to simmer.

Option Three was a real possibility. Option Three meant hope and a pathway to her dreams. 

Mei Yee decided to choose Option Three.

Without a second thought, Mei Yee knocked down the two teacups before her and stood up triumphantly.

Ah Ping heard the strange noises from outside the door. She feared the worst had happened. So, she quickly rushed into the room and was surprised to find that her mistress was very much alive. She did not quite understand what had transpired, but was extremely relieved to know that her mistress had chosen not to proceed with the suicide.

Mei Yee smiled at Ah Ping. It was no ordinary smile. Optimism was rising in the horizon, and she was ready to seize it. It was time to plan something great. 

To be continued in Chapter Six….

EAST OF THE HEART: CHAPTER FOUR

Chapter Four: The Discovery

1925 – George Town, Penang

As summoned by the formidable Mrs. Wong, the tailor came to the mansion on the following morning with his two of his best seamstresses. Mei Yee was very delighted to learn that the two seamstresses were the same Shanghainese ladies whom she had travelled on the steamer ship to Penang with. They were Jing Fei and Bao Hua. The two seamstresses were stunned to discover that Mei Yee was going to be the Wongs’ new daughter-in-law. They were ecstatic for her, as it was considered to be extreme good fortune for any woman to be married into a family of wealth and position. Mei Yee gracefully accepted their good wishes, and said nothing else.

Mei Yee also found out that Bao Hua was older than Jing Fei by 2 years. Bao Hua was good in embroidery work, where as Jing Fei was an expert in the sewing of ornate buttons for qipaos. In a traditional Chinese ‘qipao’, the buttons were as significant as the dress itself. It took a specific skill to sew the time-honoured qipao buttons, as they were truly delicate. An assessment of how well a ‘qipao’ was made, would be judged on its cut, embroidery and the buttons.

The qipao originated from the 17^th century, when the minority Manchus ruled China after the Ming dynasty. Together with their allied and conquered forces of Mongol, the Manchus created the “Eight Banner System” in China. Thus, the ruling Manchus came to be known as the “Banner people”. The one-piece dress that was commonly worn by the Manchu women came to be regarded as the “banner-quilt” or in the Mandarin language, the qipao. As the Manchus created elite classes within their social infrastructure, women of nobility wore “formal court” qipaos, and “common” women would wear everyday casual qipaos. Hence, even the qipao costume could represent the subservient relationship between the aristocrats and the ordinary folks.

Before the 1920’s, the qipao was worn very loosely and wide. It was meant to conceal most of the woman's body, regardless of her age. In conservative China, women’s attire was meant to only reveal the ladies’ heads, hands, and the tips of their toes. However, during the 1920s, Shanghai became the fashion capital of China. Thus, the modifications to the original qipao were made popular. The new version of the qipao was more “exposed” with the famous slit at the sides that showed much of a woman’s leg. The new qipao was now made to fit the modern woman’s beautiful curves. Soon, this became the standard qipao, and everyone quickly started transforming their old qipaos to accommodate the latest style changes.

The Shanghainese have always been renown in China for their exceptional talents in making exquisite qipaos. The most luxurious of all qipaos would be the ones specially tailored for a bride to wear on her wedding day. It would have to be red in colour, as red was the colour that symbolized good luck and happiness in the Chinese culture. Then the master tailor and his team of seamstresses would spend hours, days or weeks working on the bridal qipao, depending on how complicated or elaborate the embroidery work was involved.

In Mei Yee’s case, her wedding qipao would have the motifs of a dragon adorned at the front of the dress. It would start from the right shoulder and flow down to the left bottom skirting of the dress. Here, the dragon symbolized the masculine qualities, meaning the groom or the husband-to-be. Mrs. Wong wanted to remind Mei Yee to always uphold her husband’s interests in her heart. The back of the bridal qipao would display an intricate emblem of the phoenix. The phoenix has always represented the female qualities in the Chinese custom, meaning the bride herself. Mrs. Wong had deliberately instructed the master tailor to have the phoenix embellished at the back of the dress in order to remind Mei Yee that her own identity would have little importance over her husband’s. Therefore, her husband’s welfare and happiness would always come first and foremost. Mei Yee would have to ‘put herself at the back’.  

This resplendent qipao would be sewn with gold threads, and decorated with precious stones such as jade, turquoise and rubies. Mrs. Wong had spared no expense in making a truly spectacular qipao for her soon-to-be youngest daughter-in-law. After all, the bride would be paraded in front of all the relatives and guests at the wedding banquet, like another priceless art acquisition for everyone to appraise.

Mei Yee and the two seamstresses became fast friends. Jing Fei was most envious of Mei Yee, as “marrying well” was her main purpose in coming to Penang. Jing Fei prayed hard that she too would end up as lucky as Mei Yee. As the ladies and the master tailor were measuring Mei Yee, Ah Ping stood silently behind squirming within herself. She has grown very fond of Mei Yee. For once in her life, she felt that she had found a friend in Mei Yee. It troubled her deeply that she was knowingly withholding some very pertinent information from her friend. She dreaded not being able to tell Mei Yee the truth about the Groom, Christopher Wong, and what Mrs. Wong had planned for her on the wedding night.

After the tailor and seamstresses have left the mansion, Ah Ping was directed by Mrs. Wong to deliver Mei Yee’s lunch to the attic. It was thirty minutes after one o’clock in the afternoon, and the other ladies in the household had already eaten their lunch. It was served at twelve o’clock in the formal dining room every day, without fail. Mrs. Wong had graciously excused Mei Yee from joining them that day due to her appointment with the tailor and seamstresses. It was more important for Mei Yee to get herself measured and sized properly before the tailor could start work on the opulent fabric chosen by Mrs. Wong.

As Mei Yee was eating her sumptuous lunch, she noticed Ah Ping acting very strangely. In fact, Ah Ping has been behaving rather oddly since yesterday. Without delaying a moment longer, Mei Yee stopped eating and confronted Ah Ping directly.

“Now, what is really bothering you, Ah Ping? I want to know. You have been fidgeting all day. And if I remember correctly, you started doing so right after yesterday’s breakfast.” Mei Yee spoke sincerely.

Ah Ping shuffled her feet and looked down. She did not know how to explain the situation to her mistress.

Mei Yee got up from the table and walked towards her personal maid. She had not regarded Ah Ping to be her domestic attendant, but more of the sister which she never had.

Gently, she took hold of Ah Ping’s hands and said, “You can tell me, Ah Ping. I treat you as my sister. So, I will do my best to help you. Don't be afraid to tell me. What is the matter?”

Ah Ping finally looked up and sobbed, “It is not I who will be afraid, mistress, but you. And I don’t know how to help you. I am so sorry.”

Mei Yee was taken back. She did not expect to hear those exact words from Ah Ping. Why should she be afraid, and what would she be afraid of? She was very confounded by Ah Ping’s statement.

 “What will I be afraid of, Ah Ping? Please tell me. I beg of you.” Mei Yee was disturbed, as Ah Ping looked most distressed.

“The night before you had arrived at the Wong residence, I over-heard Madam Wong’s private conversation with Sir Wong in the library. It was an accident. I was told by the Head Housekeeper to clean up some stains on the windows of the library. I did not know that both Sir and Madam Wong were inside. I was about to leave them alone when I heard your name. I was so curious about you at that time because they had already told me that I was assigned to be your personal maid. So, I stayed behind the closed door, and listened carefully to what Madam Wong was saying to Sir Wong.” Ah Ping explained while weeping, but another emotion was beginning to surface in her tone. It was fear.

The look on Ah Ping’s face alarmed Mei Yee even though she had no clue as to what Ah Ping had heard. She was determined to find out.

“Will you please share what they were discussing about me? I really need to know, Ah Ping, please.” Mei Yee pleaded.

“Before I tell you, I need to show you something. Only then you would truly understand.” Ah Ping said as she wiped away her tears.

Mei Yee felt very uneasy. As much as she was concerned about herself and wanted to learn what Ah Ping had heard, she did not like seeing the young girl cry over her.

“All right. But please, do not cry anymore, Ah Ping. I am not worth your tears.” Mei Yee said and handed Ah Ping a handkerchief.

Ah Ping refused her mistress’s hanky and proceeded to wipe her wet eyes on her sleeves. “You have been most kind to me, mistress. You treat me like a friend and not a maid. I really appreciate that very much. So, this is why I feel so sad. I did not know how to tell you. You certainly do not deserve to be treated in this way. Please come with me now. I will show you what Madam Wong has been hiding from you.” Ah Ping added.

Mei Yee’s curiosity urged her to go along with Ah Ping. Whatever it was – be it good or bad, she knew she had to see it for herself. She was not going to take anyone’s word for it. She never did. She needed to witness the truth with her own eyes, and then she would decide for herself. No one else held the right to make any conclusions on her behalf.

Quickly, Mei Yee abandoned her lunch and crept out of the attic. Ah Ping walked ahead to make sure that the coast was clear. She took Mei Yee through the narrow corridors and opened a small door. The door opened to a series of staircases which led to various doors and corridors on different levels. This was the back of the house, where the servants would move about freely whenever they had to go from one place to another. In the Wong residence, no servants were allowed to use the main staircases or wander about in the main building. Only those who were sent for, or had to serve would make themselves seen. All of the household staff was restricted to journey around the mansion through the complex structure of stairs constructed behind the walls of the great mansion. Hence, they could swiftly get from one end of the house to another, without being spotted by anyone.

Ah Ping guided Mei Yee through an assortment of doors before they reached the North Wing attic of the mansion. They were fortunate that no one had seen them. As they emerged from a narrow aisle and into the main hallway, Mei Yee realized that they had arrived at the opposite side of the mansion. Her own attic room was located on the South Wing corner. However, this North Wing attic was much more spacious than hers. The living room had several big floor-to-ceiling windows but there was hardly any furniture. There was only a large hand-painted folded lacquer screen that was placed in a corner. In front of the screen were two sofas and a table. Ah Ping grabbed hold of Mei Yee’s hand and led her behind the large screen. She motioned her finger to her mouth and Mei Yee instantly understood that they had to be very quiet. The screen concealed the both of them completely and safely in the corner of the room. Then, Ah Ping pointed to the small gaps in between the screen and gestured to Mei Yee to peer through them.

There were some sounds of movement coming from behind the bedroom door. They could hear the doorknob turn, and it was opened. Mei Yee looked closely and saw that a lady dressed in all white was wheeling out someone from the bedroom. She could not see the person seated on the wheelchair as their backs were facing her. Gradually, the lady in white turned the wheelchair around, revealing their faces. Mei Yee gasped in shock at the sight of the man seated in the wheelchair. Ah Ping had to place her hands onto Mei Yee’s mouth quickly in order to silence her.

The man in the wheelchair had a severe physical disorder. His whole face had been disfigured. It did not resemble any human form. His fingers were curled up like they were permanently clenched. He kept shaking his head and hands uncontrollably as the lady in white wheeled him out of the room. The only limbs that did not move at all were his legs. They looked lifeless.

After the lady in white had left the room with the crippled man, Ah Ping and Mei Yee came out from behind the screen. Ah Ping ran to the door to make sure that they were not coming back. She could see Mei Yee’s horrified face waiting to launch a set of questions.

“Who was that man in the wheelchair and why is he like that? Who is that lady all dressed in white? I have not seen anything like this before!” Mei Yee asked.

Ah Ping cautioned Mei Yee to keep her voice down, and told her that she will explain later. She then took Mei Yee back to the hallway, through the narrow alleys behind the walls of the mansion and climbed the flight of stairs back to Mei Yee’s attic in the South Wing corner.

Once they were both in the privacy of the attic, she announced, “Mistress, that man in the wheelchair will be your husband in less than 2 weeks’ time. He is Master Christopher Wong.”

This revelation fractured Mei Yee into pieces. She was completely dumbfounded.

“Master Christopher suffered a terrible hunting accident almost a year ago. He nearly died. Well, he does look like a ghost of his former self now. They say that he is also damaged in the brains. Only a handful of the servants in the house know about this. I happened to know because I was taking care of Master Christopher before they got him a full time nurse. That’s the lady in white we saw earlier. This is the real reason why Madam Wong did not want mistress to be wandering about in the house. Madam Wong did not want you to accidentally see her son before the wedding. She was most afraid you would change your mind. There is no such thing about any bad luck to see the groom beforehand. Both mistresses Ai Ling and Sun Lee were formally introduced to the Wongs’ older sons after they had been selected for the purpose of marriage. They all met with one another at an arranged dinner in the house. Then it was up to Master Alfred to decide which of the two ladies he wanted, as he was to be the first to marry. Bernard would the marry with the other lady a year later.” Ah Ping clarified.

Mei Yee was astonished at the lengths Madam Wong would undertake in entrapping her to marry her youngest son. It started to make sense why the family had insisted on finding a potential bride from the Mainland, and not sought out a local Penang girl. The China-ordered bride would not have any opportunity to run back to her own family after finding out the truth, where as a local girl could stir up all kinds of trouble for the Wongs.

“However, this is not all. The worst will happen on your wedding night and the nights after that.” Ah Ping said gravely.

“What do you mean?” Mei Yee wondered what could be worse than being married to a physically and mentally deformed man.

“You know they will see to it that you will bear them plenty of grandchildren, especially grandsons. But Master Christopher is no longer capable of making any babies. His manhood was also impaired by the accident.” Ah Ping disclosed.

Mei Yee stiffened. She shuddered to think of what Ah Ping was about to say.

 “This will not be easy for you to hear, mistress. To all the relatives and everyone outside of the family, you will be marrying Master Christopher. But you and I know that Master Christopher will never be seen by anyone other than his nurse and Madam Wong. His condition will remain a family secret. So, at the wedding ceremony, you will actually be married to two men – Master Alfred and Master Bernard. Like all traditional wedding ceremonies, a red cloth will be covering the faces of the Bride and Groom. No one can see, and you will also not see who is the real person behind the red cloth. Everyone will think that the Groom is Master Christopher, but the role will be rotated between Master Alfred and Master Bernard.” Ah Ping described how the ceremony will be played out.

Mei Yee’s eyes widened at the implication of what it might mean on her wedding night.

“Therefore, on your wedding night and the nights after, you will be impregnated by the two older sons. They will take turns in being with you until you give birth to male children. This is the main reason why the other sisters-in-law do not like you from the beginning. They know about this, but they cannot do anything. Madam Wong’s decision cannot be overturned by anyone.” Ah Ping uttered the words as fast as she could in order to lessen the horror and pain to her mistress. 

Mei Yee could feel rage rising inside her like a flaming sword.

Did her mother know about how this marriage was to be arranged amongst the Wong sons? Had her mother also lied to her, knowing the kind of life she was condemning Mei Yee to live with the Wong family? How could all of them make her go through with this unspeakable arrangement? How could they proceed with such a sickening plan themselves?

The hostility that was directed towards Mei Yee by the other daughters-in-law was definitely called for. They had every right to be disgusted, she thought. Of all the terrible things that had ever happened to her, nothing came close to this. Mei Yee had held her emotions intact ever since she was first told to leave her family home and village. She did not want to create any problems for her family, especially her mother. Although she wanted to cry on several occasions, she did not allow herself to fall apart. She had wanted to represent her family’s honour in the best possible light. In all this time, she has fought back all the tears that were culminating behind her fiery eyes. This was the final straw that would breach the teary barricades. Like a dam, every fibre of her being wept unquenchable tears.

What could she do? What would become of her?   

The foundation of her being surrendered to an overwhelming surge of misery.

To be continued on Chapter Five…