Destined

Gu Jin was born in the second year of Yongfu.

She heard that when she was born, her father Gu Jiusi was still working on the Yellow River embankments. Shortly after her birth, the emperor passed away and a new sovereign ascended the throne. The new ruler then abolished the cabinet, plunging the world into turmoil. While still in swaddling clothes, she was carried along by her mother through a life of constant displacement.

Perhaps being born in such turbulent times shaped her timid nature. By the age of three, she rarely spoke, and when she did, it was with a stutter. Liu Yu Ru worried that her own quiet disposition might have influenced the child, so she asked Gu Jiusi to spend more time with their daughter. Since Gu Jiusi was talkative and outgoing, she hoped Gu Jin might learn to be bolder by following him around.

Gu Jiusi found Liu Yu Ru's reasoning sound. Moreover, whenever he saw Gu Jin's timid, hesitant gaze, his heart ached with tenderness. Thus, he began carrying Gu Jin with him every day—except when attending morning court sessions—holding her close at almost all times. Whenever he encountered colleagues, he couldn't resist showing off: "Look how lovely this child is! Yes, this is Jin'er, my daughter."

Though young, Gu Jin lived much like an adult. She woke early each morning, dressed by Liu Yu Ru in pretty little dresses with her hair styled beautifully, then carried by Gu Jiusi to morning court. While Gu Jiusi attended political discussions inside the main hall, Munan would wait with her outside. After court adjourned, she would accompany Gu Jiusi to the Hall of Gathering Sages for his official duties. In the afternoons, father and daughter would return home together, where Liu Yu Ru would play with Gu Jin for a while.

Gu Jin remained quiet but exceptionally well-behaved. Each morning, Munan would set up a small stool for her with a tiny table beside it and give her a round fan. Like a miniature noble lady, she would sit outside the main hall, fanning herself while watching the sky—observing the sunrise, counting passing clouds—for entire mornings. When Gu Jiusi emerged after court, he would always see a little bundle stumbling eagerly toward him with outstretched arms, her large, crystalline eyes glistening as she used her limited vocabulary to babble: "Hold! Papa, hold me!"

Gu Jin was adorable—with a round, rosy-cheeked face and eyes like clear glass, pure and transparent. Whatever she looked at seemed to reflect in her gaze, filling people with contentment.

Being greeted by this little bundle after court melted Gu Jiusi's heart. The perpetually single Ye Shi'an and childless Shen Ming grew green with envy, competing to offer: "Uncle can hold you too!"

But how could Gu Jiusi let anyone else touch his daughter? As Shen Ming and Ye Shi'an rushed forward, Gu Jiusi would swiftly scoop Gu Jin into his arms, declaring triumphantly: "Let's go! Daddy will take you home. We don't need to bother with those strange uncles."

Shen Ming huffed at this: "Fine, no holding then! Once I marry Ye Yun, I'll go home and have my own!"

Ye Shi'an immediately turned to him, coldly retorting: "So you just want Yun'er to bear your children? Forget it! The Ye Family would rather support her forever than let her marry someone like you!"

Shen Ming: "..."Ye Shi'an flicked his sleeve and turned to leave. Shen Ming quickly chased after him, trying to appease him, "Brother-in-law, I misspoke. It's not about the child—I truly adore Ye Yun. Brother-in-law, slow down, please! Brother-in-law!!"

Gu Jin had been watching the sky outside the morning court sessions since she was five. By then, most court officials were familiar with her and treated her with affectionate indulgence. She had initially found the morning court rather dull, but on the first day of spring when she turned five, as she gazed idly at the sky, a young boy stepped into her view.

The boy appeared to be only twelve or thirteen, dressed in a white robe embroidered with golden threads forming dragons, and wore a jade crown adorned with pearls. After the morning court began, he led his attendants to the entrance of the grand hall, and his gaze settled on Gu Jin.

He was the most handsome young boy Gu Jin had ever seen.

She wasn't unaccustomed to handsome men—her father, Gu Jiusi, was considered one of Great Xia's most exceptional beauties. Her uncles, Ye Shi'an, Shen Ming, Li Yuchang, and even the Emperor Zhou Ye, were all fine-looking, but they were too old in her eyes, not suitable playmates. This young boy, however, was the most youthful and dashing person she had ever encountered.

Not only was he handsome, but he was also gentle. The moment Gu Jin saw him, she froze in astonishment. In her daze, the small round fan in her hand clattered to the ground. The boy gave a soft chuckle, stepped forward, bent down to pick up the round fan, and crouched to hand it back to her, saying tenderly, "Hold it carefully. Don't drop it again."

Hearing this, Gu Jin's heart leaped with joy.

She desperately wanted to talk more with this young boy and have him play with her. Taking the fan, she mustered all her strength and stammered, "Tha... tha... tha... thank..."

She meant to say "thank you, young brother," but the words wouldn't come out, and she felt deeply embarrassed. Turning her head away, she vigorously grabbed her favorite plum blossom cake and offered it to him, continuing, "Tha... tha... tha... thank..."

This time, she was nearly in tears.

It had always been like this—whenever she spoke, she would stutter, and others would laugh at her. They didn't dare laugh in front of Gu Jiusi and Liu Yu Ru, but a few private chuckles had made Gu Jin understand. So, she rarely spoke; staying silent meant avoiding ridicule.

But today, she had been too eager to impress and ended up making a fool of herself. Meeting a playmate she liked for the first time, only to be laughed at, filled her with grievance. Tears welled in her eyes, and the plum blossom cake she clutched was squished out of shape. Yet, at that moment, the young boy reached out and accepted the cake, saying gently, "Why are you crying? Did I scare you somehow?"

Hearing this, Gu Jin looked up in a daze, disbelief in her eyes. The young boy took a bite of the plum blossom cake and remarked, "It's delicious. Thank you."

Just then, an announcement echoed from the grand hall: "Summon—the Crown Prince to enter the court."

Upon hearing this, the young boy calmly stood up, lightly brushed the crumbs from his hands, straightened his attire, and smiled at Gu Jin. "I must go in now. You can keep playing."

With that, he turned and led his attendants into the grand hall.

Gu Jin anxiously tugged at Munan's sleeve, pointing at the young boy and struggling to speak, "Cro... Crown Prince..."This was the first time she had spoken words beyond her usual vocabulary, which made Munan pause for a moment before quickly squatting down and saying cheerfully, "Yes, that's His Highness the Crown Prince." As he spoke, Munan leaned in closer and whispered to her, "His name is Zhou Ping."

Zhou Ping.

Zhou Ye's half-brother and the crown prince of Great Xia.

He studied under Ye Shi'an, Gu Jiusi, and Li Yuchang. At thirteen years old, it was his second year as crown prince and his first time attending court to observe governance.

To say he wasn't nervous would be a lie, but just outside the hall, he encountered a little girl who gave him a plum blossom cake. This distraction actually helped calm his nerves.

He entered the grand hall with dignified composure and completed that day's court observation. When he walked out alongside all the court officials, he was beaming with joy, discussing state affairs with his teacher Gu Jiusi as he strode forward.

Just then, Gu Jin spread her arms and came running happily toward the crowd.

Everyone was accustomed to this scene. Gu Jiusi also bent down with a smile, squatting and opening his arms, waiting for Gu Jin to rush into his embrace.

Unexpectedly, just as she reached Gu Jiusi, Gu Jin suddenly changed direction and dashed toward Zhou Ping instead. Then, with outstretched arms and an expectant expression, she looked at Zhou Ping happily and said, "Hug! Your Highness, hug!"

Zhou Ping was stunned. Then he felt a cold breeze pass by as he turned to see Gu Jiusi's meaningful gaze tinged with a chill.

Gu Jiusi straightened up, withdrawing his waiting arms, and said calmly, "Jin'er really likes Your Highness."

"So this is Teacher's child," Zhou Ping instinctively sensed Gu Jiusi's displeasure and quickly responded, "No wonder she's so adorable."

Seeing Zhou Ping talking with Gu Jiusi and ignoring her, Gu Jin's eyes immediately welled up with tears. But she remained stubborn, still stretching out her arms and gazing eagerly at Zhou Ping while hopping up and down, insisting, "Hug! Your Highness, want hug!"

Zhou Ping: "..."

She's so cute, it's hard to resist.

And when Gu Jiusi saw Gu Jin about to cry, he couldn't contain his frustration anymore and snapped angrily, "She's about to cry! Aren't you going to pick her up?!"

Hearing this, Zhou Ping quickly bent down to lift Gu Jin into his arms, offering Gu Jiusi an awkward apology: "Teacher, my apologies."

Gu Jiusi: "..."

Dragged along by Gu Jin, Zhou Ping ended up escorting Gu Jiusi all the way to the Gu Family residence. Coincidentally, he had many questions to ask, so he stayed for a meal at the Gu household.

During the meal, Gu Jin made great efforts to converse with Zhou Ping, speaking in broken phrases while Zhou Ping listened with an amused smile. Though Zhou Ping didn't mind, the entire Gu Family fell into collective silence. After seeing Zhou Ping off and retiring for the night, Liu Yu Ru folded clothes nearby and happily told Gu Jiusi, "Jin'er spoke so much today! We should let her spend more time with His Highness the Crown Prince in the future."

Hearing this, Gu Jiusi's temper flared. He pulled the covers over himself, turned his back to Liu Yu Ru, and shouted indignantly, "I won't allow it!"

But Gu Jin was determined. The next morning, while Gu Jiusi and Liu Yu Ru were still asleep, Gu Jin came knocking. When Gu Jiusi opened the door, he saw Gu Jin standing at their bedroom doorway, looking at him with pleading eyes as she said, "Want pretty... see brother."

Though her words were fragmented, both Liu Yu Ru and Gu Jiusi understood perfectly - she wanted to dress up nicely to see Zhou Ping.Alright, Gu Jiusi felt even more stifled. He didn’t want to bring Gu Jin to court anymore, but as soon as Gu Jin sensed his hesitation, she sat to the side, tears falling like rain without restraint. Seeing their daughter so aggrieved, Liu Yu Ru’s heart ached, and she immediately declared, “She must go! If you don’t take Jin’er, I’ll bring her myself today!”

Gu Jiusi: “…”

There was no other choice—he had to take Gu Jin along.

Though young, Gu Jin was stubborn once she set her mind to something. From that day on, she actively sought out Zhou Ping every day, mustering all her courage to exchange a few words with him.

Thanks to her efforts, within just a year, Gu Jin spoke more than she had in the previous five years combined. Puzzled by their daughter’s sudden enthusiasm, Liu Yu Ru and Gu Jiusi couldn’t understand it. One evening, after putting Gu Jin to bed, Liu Yu Ru couldn’t help but ask, “Why does Jin’er like the Crown Prince so much?”

“He,” Gu Jin stammered, “doesn’t laugh at me.”

“He… listens to me, like you and Father. He’s never impatient.”

Hearing this, Liu Yu Ru understood: Gu Jin liked Zhou Ping because he never mocked her stuttering or unclear speech and was willing to spend time with her.

Liu Yu Ru’s heart ached with sorrow. As parents, even the slightest grievance suffered by their child felt unbearable. Though she was usually resilient and strong-willed, her daughter’s simple words brought tears to her eyes.

From then on, Liu Yu Ru often took Gu Jin to see Zhou Ping. Sometimes, when Gu Jiusi was tutoring Zhou Ping, Liu Yu Ru would use the pretext of visiting her husband to bring Gu Jin along. Mother and daughter would wait in the corridor, watching Gu Jiusi teach and Zhou Ping study. After an hour and a half, Liu Yu Ru would bring Gu Jin over to give Zhou Ping a small gift. Even these brief exchanges filled Gu Jin with immense joy. Zhou Ping, with his gentle temperament, would often play with her when he had free time—kicking shuttlecocks, tossing sandbags, or hopping in grid games. These simple childhood pastimes delighted Gu Jin endlessly.

After spending time with her on several occasions, Zhou Ping, noting that Gu Jin was around the same age as Zhou Siguī, proactively suggested to Gu Jiusi that Gu Jin be allowed to visit the palace. He offered to look after her alongside Zhou Siguī. Gu Jiusi was reluctant but, fearing Gu Jin’s disappointment and Liu Yu Ru’s anger, forced a smile and replied respectfully, “Thank you for your trouble, Your Highness.”

Thus, from that point on, Gu Jin frequently visited the palace to play with Zhou Siguī and Zhou Ping. Meanwhile, Liu Yu Ru gave birth to another child, a boy named Gu Chang’an.

Zhou Ping made it a daily routine to set aside time for Zhou Siguī, and during these moments, he naturally included Gu Jin.

This arrangement for Zhou Ping to accompany Zhou Siguī was stipulated in Zhou Gaolang’s final decree before his death. Everyone understood Zhou Gaolang’s intention: to foster a bond between Zhou Ping and Zhou Siguī, hoping to prevent future conflicts over the succession.

With Zhou Ye as emperor, appointing an heir was inevitable. Having grown accustomed to political instability and multiple changes in rulership over the years, the court had prepared for the worst. Learning from Fan Xuan’s precedent and considering Zhou Ye’s vow not to remarry, Zhou Gaolang was uneasy about designating Zhou Siguī as heir. Moreover, Zhou Siguī was too young for his character to be assessed, so the only viable choice was to appoint Zhou Ping.Zhou Ping's life was saved by Qin Wan Zhi, and he was almost completely obedient to Zhou Ye. Coupled with his upright character, he was an ideal candidate for the position of Crown Prince. However, everyone still feared that he and Zhou Siguì might develop an uncle-nephew rift in the future, so they arranged for them to play together daily.

Because of this, Zhou Ping became exceptionally skilled at interacting with children. After bringing Gu Jin to the palace, he helped her and Zhou Siguì become good friends. Although Gu Jin and Zhou Siguì got along well, perhaps because she had met Zhou Ping first, Gu Jin still preferred to stay close to Zhou Ping. She would go to the palace early every morning and return only in the evening. Zhou Ping felt somewhat embarrassed and asked curiously, "Why doesn't Jin'er like going home?"

Gu Jin's heart tightened. Though young, she seemed naturally inclined to conceal her true intentions. Instinctively, she felt that saying "she wanted to be near him" was inappropriate, so she could only reply, "Chang'an is here."

Zhou Ping understood.

Looking at the little girl bowing her head before him, he felt a pang of pity. He reached out and gently patted Gu Jin's head, saying softly, "It's alright, I'll keep you company."

Hearing this, Gu Jin lowered her head even further, but her heart swelled with joy.

Gu Jin's days in the palace were extremely happy. She had a stutter, so Zhou Ping and Zhou Siguì patiently taught her to speak and played with her. By the time she was seven, she could speak fluently.

Although her speech was not entirely smooth, Gu Jin learned to read and write quickly, especially in arithmetic, where she showed astonishing talent. She seemed to have fully inherited Liu Yu Ru's abilities, with rapid mental calculation and an almost photographic memory for accounts.

As she grew older, by the time Gu Jin turned ten, it was no longer appropriate for her to stay in the palace. Zhou Siguì had also begun his formal studies. Though Zhou Siguì felt regretful, he understood the boundaries between men and women and could only say to Gu Jin, "Gu Jin, come visit the palace often in the future."

Gu Jin smiled and glanced over, catching sight of Zhou Ping standing nearby.

Zhou Ping was now eighteen, nearly a young man. He looked at her as if she were still a child. Seeing this gaze, Gu Jin felt inexplicably sad. She couldn't quite pinpoint the reason, but she lowered her head, her eyes stinging, and murmured, "Then, in the future, you and the Crown Prince must come visit me often."

"Don't worry," Zhou Siguì immediately replied, "we'll visit you frequently."

"Don't forget me."

"How could we?"

Zhou Siguì laughed and said, "We could forget anyone but you. We're good friends."

Gu Jin felt a pang of sorrow but only responded softly without saying more.

In the following days, Gu Jin remained at home. Liu Yu Ru had her managing accounts early on, and she assisted her mother in business. Unlike other parents, Liu Yu Ru and Gu Jiusi never taught her less because she was a girl. They didn't instruct her on how to marry, embroider, or protect her reputation. Instead, they taught her to earn money well, to be capable, and to live a better life. Gu Jin had no concept that marrying someone was an honor. To her, whom she married or what status they held didn't matter. Her mother had told her that if she liked someone, she could marry them. If the other person had no money, she could support him; if he had money, she was worthy of him.

She busied herself with commerce while secretly inquiring about Zhou Ping's news.When she was twelve years old, Zhou Ping underwent his Crowning ceremony, meaning he could marry that year. Upon hearing the news, her heart ached so severely it felt blocked. That very night, she stood before Gu Jiusi and Liu Yu Ru, her voice hoarse as she declared, "I wish to enter the palace."

Liu Yu Ru and Gu Jiusi exchanged glances, visibly startled. Gu Jiusi stammered, "You... you're only twelve... Your Uncle Zhou is as old as your father..."

"I want to go to the Eastern Palace."

Gu Jin spoke with unwavering seriousness. Hearing this, Gu Jiusi breathed a sigh of relief, but moments later, he snapped back to reality and immediately protested, "But you're still too young! How about this," he suggested to Gu Jin, "you're still small, don't think about such matters so early..."

"My mother started considering marriage when she was eight."

Tears welling in her eyes, Gu Jin blurted out. Gu Jiusi stared at Liu Yu Ru in shock. Liu Yu Ru cleared her throat lightly and turned to look out the window. Gu Jiusi exclaimed with bitter indignation, "At eight years old, you had your eyes on Ye Shi'an?!"

"Don't listen to her nonsense," Liu Yu Ru quickly interjected. "What does an eight-year-old know about liking someone?"

"I understand." Gu Jin cut off Liu Yu Ru, tears streaming down her face. "I like Brother Crown Prince. I want to marry him. I want to be with him forever. If this isn't liking someone, then what is?"

Liu Yu Ru: "..."

Gu Jiusi fixed his gaze on Liu Yu Ru, his expression full of grievance. "Before I liked you, I had never liked anyone else!"

"Um..." Liu Yu Ru felt her head spinning, finding it difficult to respond. "Let's focus on Jin'er's matter first."

That night, Liu Yu Ru kept Gu Jin in the palace. She tried to reason with her emotionally and logically, analyzing from every angle why she and Zhou Ping could not be together. Gu Jin sobbed quietly, refusing to speak. Liu Yu Ru sighed and finally said, "If you truly insist on marrying him, then find a way to do it yourself. If you can manage it on your own, I won't stop you."

Gu Jin fell silent. She lowered her head and said nothing more.

Liu Yu Ru assumed Gu Jin had come to accept reality and did not press further.

However, a few days later, Gu Jin claimed she was going to inspect some shops. Soon after, the couple received word from the palace that Gu Jin had entered the imperial grounds.

Gu Jin had sought out Zhou Si Gui and obtained an imperial decree from her, which allowed her entry into the palace. She then had Zhou Si Gui take her to see Zhou Ye.

No one knew what she said to Zhou Ye, but after she left, Zhou Ye summoned Zhou Ping to the palace. Looking at Zhou Ping, he asked with mild amusement, "I intend to delay your consort selection for another two years. What do you think?"

Zhou Ping responded respectfully, "I will follow Your Majesty's command."

"A Ping," Zhou Ye suddenly said, observing Zhou Ping's demeanor, "have you ever thought about what your future wife should be like?"

The question caught Zhou Ping off guard, and Zhou Ye could tell he had never considered it. Zhou Ye smiled wryly and waved his hand. "Never mind, you may go. Choosing a wife is not something to be taken lightly. You must select carefully and with sincerity."

Zhou Ping acknowledged the instruction, but in truth, he did not understand how one was supposed to carefully choose a wife.

In his mind, the position of Crown Princess simply required a suitable family background and virtuous character—that was enough.

As the crown prince of a nation, his life belonged to the people, and his wife existed for the sake of the people as well.He walked out of the imperial study, passing through corridors until he reached the square. There he saw Gu Jin, with both Liu Yuru and Gu Jiusi having come to fetch her. The young girl hung her head, being lectured by the couple, yet a smile lingered on her face, showing not a trace of remorse.

Then Gu Jin turned her head and looked toward him.

This girl possessed Liu Yuru's delicate beauty and resilience, yet deep in her bones, she carried Gu Jiusi's unwavering courage and determination.

So radiant and gentle.

Zhou Ping was taken aback for a moment, and only then did he realize—Gu Jin had grown up.

After returning home, Gu Jin immediately hired a matron from the palace to teach her etiquette.

She studied, learned etiquette, and even acquired several commonly used languages of other countries. She paid meticulous attention to her appearance, tending to everything from her hair strands to her fingertips with utmost care.

No one had ever seen such an exquisite young lady. She seemed incapable of tolerating even the slightest mistake in herself, presenting nothing but perfection in all she displayed.

By the age of fifteen, her beauty and talent had spread throughout Great Xia. Born into nobility, gifted with intellect, and devoted to charitable deeds, she earned considerable renown among the common people. It was in that same year, when she turned fifteen, that Zhou Ping finally began selecting his consorts.

This selection seemed tailor-made for her. Whether by lineage or personal merit, she was the most suitable candidate for Crown Princess. Thus, without hesitation, Zhou Ping chose her.

According to ancestral customs, Zhou Ping should have selected one principal consort and one secondary consort. However, Zhou Ye had advised him in advance: "One is enough, lest you regret it later."

Zhou Ping did not fully grasp Zhou Ye's meaning, but since Zhou Ye had spoken, he naturally complied. And so, he chose only Gu Jin.

The fifteen-year-old Gu Jin was different from how he remembered her. She was dignified, gentle, and beautiful, without a single flaw. Only on their wedding night, when she trembled and clung to him, calling out "Crown Prince Brother," did he catch a glimpse of the girl she once was.

Afterward, they lived harmoniously, treating each other with respect and courtesy.

Zhou Ping had a gentle nature, and gentleness often meant placidity. He rarely showed outward emotions, devoting himself wholeheartedly to state affairs and seldom paying attention to Gu Jin.

Gu Jin cared for his daily life and accompanied him, seemingly living the life she had always desired. Zhou Ping treated her well, just as he had in their childhood. But as Gu Jin gradually matured, she began to realize that this kindness was not unique to her.

She started wanting more.

The human heart is like an unfillable chasm—the closer one gets to a person, the more one desires, and the pain of not obtaining it grows ever sharper.

Yet she never dared to speak of it. This was the path she had chosen. Liu Yu Ru had tried to dissuade her when she was twelve, but she had stubbornly stepped forward. Now, all she could do was persevere.

She had grown accustomed to pretense, to perfection, and thus to burying her pain deep within. When Liu Yu Ru and Gu Jiusi visited, she greeted them with cheerful laughter. When Zhou Si Gui came, she showed no sign of abnormality. She appeared to be living well, happily.

Until one day, she fell ill. When she awoke, Liu Yu Ru was sitting by her side, holding her hand, tears streaming down her face. Gu Jin spoke hoarsely, saying, "Mother, I'm fine."

Hearing this, Liu Yu Ru wept even more bitterly. She looked at Gu Jin and said with difficulty, "Jin'er, when I was young, the words I said most often to my mother were these very ones."

I'm fine.

It is the deepest expression of love from a child to a parent.

In the past, Liu Yu Ru had said it because Su Wan was powerless to change anything, and speaking of it would only add to the sorrow. Now, Gu Jin remained silent for the same reason—matters of the heart were beyond even the immense power of Liu Yu Ru and Gu Jiusi.

And so, Gu Jin understood that Liu Yu Ru and Gu Jiusi knew everything. They, along with everyone else, were sparing her dignity and shielding her from heartache by refusing to speak of it.She looked at Liu Yuru, somewhat at a loss. Liu Yuru sniffled and said softly, "Don't worry. If you love him and want to stay with him, then stay. If you no longer love him and don't wish to remain, your father and I have already spoken with your Uncle Zhou. When the time comes, we'll arrange a new identity for you, and you can leave the Eastern Palace. The world will be wide open before you, and you'll still be Gu Jin."

Hearing this, Gu Jin gazed quietly at Liu Yuru for a long while before finally smiling. "I thought you had given up on me."

"Your father and I have worked hard all these years precisely because we hoped to give you your own world."

Liu Yuru sighed, reaching out to stroke Gu Jin's hair gently. "If you want to move forward, then go. When you reach the end, just turn back. Even if everyone in this world abandons you," Liu Yuru's voice choked with emotion, "your parents will still be here."

With Liu Yuru's words, Gu Jin felt much more at ease. Her illness improved, and she gradually began trying to get along with Zhou Ping. But she never dared to have a child, so she secretly kept taking medicine, fearing the birth and arrival of a child.

She tried hard to get Zhou Ping's attention but didn't dare express her feelings openly. Instead, she quietly drew closer to him, just as she had in her youth. She arranged his favorite incense, selected ink sticks he preferred. Within the Eastern Palace, from the flowers and plants to the porcelain vases, everything was meticulously arranged by her. Whenever Zhou Ping returned, traces of her presence were everywhere.

Yet these traces were like spring rain moistening grass—silent and subtle. Zhou Ping, busy with state affairs, never noticed.

When Gu Jin was eighteen, in their third year of marriage, some court officials finally suggested that Zhou Ping take a concubine since Gu Jin still hadn't produced an heir.

The voices weren't loud—after all, given Gu Jin's status, no one dared to speak too boldly. But Zhou Ping took it to heart. That night, he unusually said to Gu Jin, "We should have a child." Then he looked at her with concern and added, "Should we have a physician examine you and prescribe some medicine for regulation?"

After speaking, Zhou Ping seemed worried she might be displeased and continued, "I'll also see one."

These words kept Gu Jin tossing and turning all night. Lying in bed, she seriously contemplated whether she should have a child.

She had always been precocious and clearly understood that a child meant responsibility. If she had a child, even with Liu Yuru and Gu Jiusi's support, she could never leave the Eastern Palace. Even if she could bear to part with Zhou Ping, she could never abandon a child.

If she were to have a child, she wanted her child to grow up in a happy family, carefree and without worries, just as she had.

She lay awake all night. The next morning, when Zhou Ping got up, she suddenly said, "Your Highness."

Zhou Ping looked puzzled. Gu Jin spoke gently, "What will you do if I never have a child?"

Hearing this, Zhou Ping frowned slightly. Then he approached, gently caressed her face, and said softly, "Don't worry. If you can't have a child, we'll find another physician for a thorough examination."

"What if even after seeing physicians, it still doesn't work?"

Gu Jin persisted, gazing at him intently. After hesitating for a moment, Zhou Ping finally said, "Then I'll take a concubine," he said as casually as if discussing official business. "The child can be placed under your name. You needn't worry.""Is it because of my father?" Gu Jin continued, a rare breach of etiquette that left Zhou Ping momentarily flustered. She looked at him and pressed on, "If not for my father, if I were childless, what would you do?"

"Ah Jin." Zhou Ping frowned at her words. Gu Jin took a deep breath, knelt on the bed, and performed a formal bow, saying respectfully, "Your Highness, this subject has been too unsettled and acted improperly."

Zhou Ping remained silent, watching her. Suddenly, he felt a sharp, needle-like pain in his heart. He didn't understand what it was, but after standing still for a long time, he stepped forward, gently embraced Gu Jin, and said softly, "Ah Jin, don't worry. You'll be fine."

Gu Jin responded, seeming no different from usual.

After Zhou Ping left, Gu Jin composed herself. By afternoon, she sent for Gu Jiusi. When Gu Jiusi and Liu Yuru arrived, she watched them approach. Dressed in red, she had grown taller and thinner since entering the palace, her beauty now breathtaking. Seeing Gu Jiusi and Liu Yuru side by side, she meant to smile, but as her lips curved, she began to cry instead.

"I..." she stammered, as she had in her youth, "I... I want to go home."

At his daughter's words, Gu Jiusi could bear no more. Without asking further, he turned immediately to Liu Yuru and Gu Jin and said, "I'll go to the palace to see His Majesty. You help Jin'er pack."

Not long after Gu Jiusi entered the palace, Gu Jin received a summons from Zhou Ye to attend court. She and Liu Yuru went together to the imperial study, where Zhou Ye sat behind his desk, with Gu Jiusi and Zhou Siguì standing on either side. The three seemed to have reached some agreement. Gu Jin and Liu Yuru knelt and paid their respects, and Zhou Ye calmly bade them rise.

"I heard from Jiusi that you wish to return home," Zhou Ye looked at her with regret in his expression. "Are you giving up just like that?"

Gu Jin forced a smile and replied gently, "Your Majesty, in truth, you were all right." Her voice softened. "His Highness and I are not suited. I was the one who insisted."

With that, Gu Jin knelt again, kowtowed to Zhou Ye, and said softly, "I beg Your Majesty's permission."

Zhou Ye was silent for a long time before he finally spoke. "Back then, everyone said you were not suited—that you were too emotional, too impulsive, while Ping'er was the opposite. No one had faith in this relationship, yet I still granted it, making Ping'er wait for you three years. Do you know why?"

"Because you told me that nothing in this world is unchangeable. Your father was like that once, and I thought you could be too."

Hearing this, Gu Jin shed tears, her voice trembling slightly. "This common woman has failed Your Majesty's great favor."

Listening to Gu Jin's voice—a child he had watched grow up—Zhou Ye sighed and finally said, "I will summon the Crown Prince. If he agrees, we shall proceed as you wish. If he consents to a divorce, you may divorce. If he does not, you may leave the Eastern Palace under a different identity."

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

Zhou Ye fell silent again. After a long pause, he asked, "Has Ping'er treated you poorly?"

"No."

"Is it truly unbearable?" Zhou Ye sighed. "The position of Crown Princess—so many women envy it. Ah Jin, since you love him, why must you do this?"

"Precisely because I love him."Gu Jin said calmly, "I just couldn't bear it anymore."

She couldn't bear his eternally calm tenderness, this affection that perpetually offered hope yet delivered utter despair.

How many times had she woken up thinking he belonged to her, only to fall into despair the next moment, at some small detail, some fleeting glance.

He had done nothing wrong. Everything he did was right. Her suffering was self-inflicted, and she could no longer allow this pain to continue.

She remained kneeling, finding peace in the position.

Zhou Ping rushed over upon receiving the news. When he saw everyone present, he was completely bewildered. He looked at Zhou Siguī, who desperately gestured with her eyes toward Gu Jin. Still confused, Zhou Ping could only first pay his respects, then went to help Gu Jin up. Turning to Zhou Ye, he asked, "Your Highness, what has happened?"

The people present exchanged glances. Gu Jiusi coughed lightly and said, "Perhaps we should let Jin'er speak with His Highness alone."

Zhou Ye thought this reasonable and said, "You two may talk in the side hall."

Following these instructions, Zhou Ping led Gu Jin to the side hall. They stood there in silence for a long while. Zhou Ping opened his mouth several times but didn't know how to ask. His intuition told him it was nothing good, yet he lacked even the courage to speak. After what felt like an eternity, Gu Jin finally spoke: "I've spoken with His Majesty." She raised her eyes to look at him. "I intend to seek a divorce from you."

These words made Zhou Ping's eyes widen in shock.

He stared at her blankly, never having imagined that divorce could happen to him. Gu Jin lowered her head, sniffled, and continued, "During these years of marriage to you, I haven't been happy. To you, whether I or someone else becomes the Crown Princess doesn't really matter - as long as it's suitable. But I'm not really suitable. As Crown Princess, my heart is too wild, not dignified enough, and too prone to jealousy. If I continue with you, I'll only suffer myself, and I fear I might harm you too."

"Brother Crown Prince," Gu Jin lifted her head and looked seriously at Zhou Ping. She hadn't called him that in many years, and hearing it now, Zhou Ping vaguely remembered what Gu Jin had been like in their youth. He stared at her blankly as she said, "You've taken good care of me all these years, and I'm grateful. But we're truly not suited for each other. I've wronged you. If you're willing, we can divorce. If you're unwilling, fearing it might damage your reputation, I can assume a new identity. You can announce my death to the public."

"This is my fault. I act on whims - when I wanted to marry you, I begged Uncle Emperor to delay your consort selection for three years. Now that I don't want to be married to you anymore, I'm seeking divorce. I've delayed you, I've wronged you. You can hate me, and I'll accept that. But I won't wrong you without compensation. From now on, I'll follow my mother into business. I'll give you thirty percent of the profits from all my shops. Your Eastern Palace needs funds to operate, and you'll need money when you become emperor too. Consider this wealth as my compensation. If you're willing to accept it, I'll always be your sister. If you're unwilling... I still hope you won't hold grudges against my parents. This is all my willfulness - it has nothing to do with them."

Zhou Ping didn't speak. He kept his head lowered.

His mind felt numb, and he didn't understand what was happening. He only felt as if a piece of his heart had been carved out, throbbing with pain.He didn't know why, but in truth, Gu Jin's words made sense. Her becoming Crown Princess was merely because she was suitable. The three-year delay back then was because Zhou Ye thought it would be better if Gu Jiusi's daughter could be his Crown Princess. Now that she was unwilling, it wasn't actually important. Changing to someone else wouldn't matter either.

As long as the Gu Family maintained their relationship with him, and moreover, Gu Jin would give him thirty percent of the profits in the future, by any calculation, it should be worthwhile.

As for the matter of face, they had already thought it through—she could leave under a different identity. That would be better than staying by his side and becoming a resentful couple.

Zhou Ping wanted to agree, as she was, after all, his junior. But though he opened his mouth several times, he couldn't bring himself to speak.

Seeing his silence, Gu Jin feared he was angry and knelt down, resolutely saying, "If Your Highness still feels dissatisfied, I am willing to atone with my life. I only beg Your Highness to let me return and acknowledge my ancestors."

Zhou Ping even trembled slightly, feeling as if he could hardly stand steady. He looked down at the person kneeling on the ground and after a long while, finally said, "Have I not treated you well?"

Gu Jin lowered her gaze, her voice hoarse. "You have."

"Then," Zhou Ping struggled to speak, "you would rather die than continue living with me?"

Gu Jin remained silent. Zhou Ping stared at her. "Have you made up your mind?"

"I have."

Zhou Ping clenched the table beside him tightly, his words coming out with great difficulty. "Very well."

He restrained himself with reason. "Since you've both decided and won't regret it, then so be it."

"A marriage—staying together is fate, not staying together is nothing either. I've watched you grow up, and naturally, I hope you live well. If you're unhappy here with me, it's because I haven't done well enough. If there's anything that can be changed, tell me..."

As he spoke, Zhou Ping felt his words seemed like an attempt to persuade her to stay. Afraid of disturbing her, he quickly added, "But if you've made up your mind, it's fine. There's no need to speak of atoning with your life. Let us part amicably. You'll return as the eldest daughter of the Gu Family, and I will still take care of you. Don't worry."

Gu Jin said nothing. Listening to Zhou Ping's words, her tears fell in large drops.

He had always been like this—kind to everyone, gentle and considerate to all.

Zhou Ping reached out to help Gu Jin stand up. He used only one hand, the other hidden in his sleeve, trembling imperceptibly, not daring to make a sound.

"Let's go," he said with a forced smile. "I'll speak with His Highness."

Gu Jin kept her head lowered, following behind Zhou Ping. He walked ahead of her, and she lifted her head to look at his back, biting her lip as tears streamed down. Zhou Ping walked in front, not daring to look back, simply leading Gu Jin into the imperial study. Once inside, he glanced around at everyone present, released Gu Jin, bowed to all, then turned to Zhou Ye and said, "Your Highness, Jin'er has told me everything. Since she has made her decision, I have no objections. She and I will part ways openly, without the need for secrecy or a change of identity. In the future, she will remain the eldest daughter of the Gu Family, and I am willing to acknowledge her as my sworn sister. Though we are not fated to be husband and wife in this life, I can still take good care of her."

Hearing this, everyone exchanged glances. Zhou Siguì furrowed his brows, while Zhou Ping smiled and said, "Bring paper and brush."He remained composed throughout, as if the matter had no effect on him whatsoever. Gu Jin stood behind him, not daring to lift her head. However, Zhou Ping avoided looking at her, so he didn't notice her expression. Zhou Ping quickly wrote the divorce papers and signed his name. He then stared at the document quietly for a long time before finally saying, "Jin'er, come and sign."

After speaking, he set down the brush and walked to the window.

Gu Jin approached the desk. Looking at the names on the divorce papers, her tears fell incessantly. But she knew she couldn't continue like this. Since she couldn't give Zhou Ping a child, she shouldn't drag things out any longer. She had spent so much time trying to move him, to care for him, but without any response, she couldn't go on.

She picked up the brush, her hand trembling as she signed her name. When the final stroke was completed, Zhou Siguì couldn't help but call out, "A-Jin..."

Gu Jin couldn't hold back. She bowed to Zhou Ye in farewell and turned to leave. Gu Jiusi and Liu Yuru hastily paid their respects to Zhou Ye before rushing out to follow Gu Jin. After they had left, Zhou Ping stood by the window, never turning around. Zhou Ye sighed, collected the papers for him, and then said, "If I had known it would come to this, I wouldn't have helped her back then."

Hearing this, Zhou Ping replied hoarsely, "Then why did you help her back then?"

"Six years ago, she came to me and said she liked you, that she was suitable for you."

Zhou Ye looked at the young man's back. "Since she was little, she loved clinging to you, following you in everything. Later, she learned palace etiquette for you, holding herself to the standards of a Crown Princess in all matters. You knew all this, didn't you?"

Zhou Ping listened in shock, turning around to stare blankly at Zhou Ye.

"She never mentioned it?"

Zhou Ye seemed surprised, then smiled after a moment. "Well, girls her age don't usually speak of such things. A-Ping, why did you think she married you?"

"For... what reason?"

Zhou Ping struggled to speak.

He had never considered this question because he assumed, like him, she married for suitability.

She was Gu Jiusi's daughter, he was the Crown Prince. She was virtuous and dignified, and he would grant her the highest honors, making her the most esteemed woman in the world.

He thought he waited three years for her because of this suitability, and that she came without hesitation to the selection after three years for the same reason.

But now, Zhou Ye told him, "It was because she liked you."

"Back when she came to me, Jiusi and Yuru were against it. They knew their daughter too well—she wasn't suited to be the Crown Princess or the future Empress. You would have a harem in the future, and your heart wasn't in romance. But A-Jin was different. She had seen what true affection and a good marriage looked like. You say the position of Empress is honorable, but for A-Jin, born into wealth, why would she need to trade her feelings for such honor?"

"Why do you think she came to this deep palace? Simply because she liked you."

"Then why now..." Zhou Ping spoke with difficulty, "why... is she leaving?"

If she liked him, why was she leaving him?

Zhou Ye thought for a moment and said helplessly, "Perhaps... when one receives no response for too long, the liking fades away."As he spoke, Zhou Ye looked up at Zhou Ping: "To be honest, I had hoped you would be with her. A-Ping, though I am the emperor, I am also your elder brother. I wish for your life to not only be that of the people's sovereign, but also that of an ordinary person. You should have a family, someone to love and be loved by, just like any ordinary couple. You would be reluctant to part with her, cherish her, adore her, and stay by her side. You would never allow anyone to lay a finger on her, and she would always accompany you, love you, and protect you with her life."

Zhou Ye paused, as if reminded of someone, and fell silent.

Zhou Ping stared blankly at Zhou Ye, who stepped forward, patted him on the shoulder, and said gently, "But since it wasn't meant to be, let it go."

"If you don't love her, so be it. Go back and rest well. Don't blame her, either."

With that, Zhou Ye walked out and instructed his attendants to take good care of Zhou Ping.

Zhou Ping stood in the room for a long time. He didn't know what was wrong, but he felt a continuous ache in his heart, a throbbing pain that came and went. Many people and events flashed through his mind—Gu Jin standing small and fragile before him, then her in wedding robes, walking step by step toward him.

He didn’t love her...

Why did everyone, even himself, believe he didn’t love her?

Why did everyone think that letting her go wouldn’t bring him sorrow, pain, or lingering attachment?

Everyone assumed she meant nothing to him, but if she truly meant nothing, why had he worried, while signing the divorce papers, that she might not fare well in the future?

The eunuch nearby, noticing Zhou Ping’s distress, brought a cloak and draped it over his shoulders, urging softly, "Your Highness, please return and rest for now..."

The cloak carried the familiar scent Gu Jin always used. Zhou Ping stiffened.

Traces of Gu Jin were everywhere, yet soon she would no longer be by his side. Once gone, she might go to someone else—she was still so young, with such looks and temperament. After returning, she would likely meet another man soon. They would marry, have children, and from then on, he would become nothing more than a stranger in her life.

The thought made Zhou Ping’s heart ache so fiercely he could hardly breathe. Gasping for air, he suddenly shoved the eunuch aside and bolted wildly out of the room.

"Where is Lady Gu?" he cried urgently, grabbing anyone he saw. "Lady Gu—have you seen Lady Gu?"

The eunuch, startled, pointed shakily in the direction.

A light rain fell outside. Zhou Ping followed the eunuch’s directions, sprinting toward the palace gates.

Meanwhile, Gu Jin sat inside a carriage. Unwilling to share a carriage with Gu Jiusi and Liu Yu Ru, afraid they would see her disheveled state, she had taken a smaller carriage following behind them. Clutching the divorce papers Zhou Ping had given her, she curled up and wept uncontrollably.

The sound of rain outside masked her sobs. She repeated to herself, Once I’ve cried it out, it’ll be over. There’s no hardship in this world that lasts forever. Life will go on without him.

But she had clung to this person for thirteen years—thirteen years of longing without fulfillment, and now she had to sever it abruptly. He had taken root in her heart; tearing him away felt like ripping her heart out, leaving it bloody and unbearable.

As she wept helplessly, the rapid clatter of hoofbeats sounded outside. Her carriage jolted to a sudden halt. Alarmed, she steadied herself, and then the carriage curtain was flung open.

A clap of thunder roared. She looked up and saw Zhou Ping outside.

Drenched by the rain, his hair plastered to his handsome face, he had lost his usual gentleness. His eyes were fixed intently on her. Flustered, she asked hoarsely, "You... what are you doing here?"

Zhou Ping didn’t answer. Staring at her, his grip tight on the curtain, he rasped, "I have something to tell you."

"What is it?"

"Gu Jin," Zhou Ping climbed into the carriage and moved closer. Gu Jin shrank back nervously, but he pressed near, his gaze firm and serious. "I don’t agree to the divorce."

With that, he took the divorce papers from her hands and, right before her eyes, tore them slowly to pieces. Gu Jin stared in shock at his actions, and after a moment, she cried out, "Zhou Ping!""Listen carefully," Zhou Ping pressed her against the carriage wall, gazing intently at her. "I watched you grow up. I taught you how to speak, how to write, how to read, and how to compose poetry. It was me," he pinched her chin, speaking softly as she stared at him in shock, "who taught you how to love someone."

These words made Gu Jin tremble.

She had never felt so ashamed before, as if she had been stripped bare, devoid of any dignity. She trembled as she spoke: "That's not true..."

"You entered the palace for me. You became the Crown Princess for me. You became Gu Jin for me."

"I'm not..."

"You like me."

"I don't..."

"Gu Jin," Zhou Ping looked at the person before him—head tilted back, hands covering her eyes, crying so pitifully it broke his heart. Seeing her like this, he suddenly calmed down, his movements softening. He looked at her and spoke hoarsely, "I know you're young, but there's no reason to tease someone's feelings and then withdraw like this."

"You were the one who came, and you're the one who wants to leave..." Zhou Ping's voice was low and raspy. "You can't treat me like this."

Hearing this, Gu Jin refused to look at him.

"After all," she sobbed, "you don't like me anyway. What does it matter whether I come or go?"

"I like you."

Zhou Ping suddenly spoke. Gu Jin was stunned. Zhou Ping pulled her hands away, looked into her eyes, and said solemnly: "I like you."

Gu Jin was speechless. She couldn't believe it at all, but Zhou Ping seemed afraid she wouldn't believe him, repeating over and over: "If you can't have children, then I won't have any. If they force me, I won't become emperor. There will be no Imperial Harem, no one else. My wife will only be you."

"I like you."

As he spoke, he lowered his head and kissed her damp eyes, choking out: "I'm sorry it took me so long to realize."

"I like you."

He thought he would never like anyone.

He thought he was born to atone for his sins.

He thought he would spend his entire life repaying Qin Wan Zhi for saving his life at the cost of her own, and devoting everything to Great Xia and its people.

But after meeting Gu Jin, he finally understood that he was merely human after all. Capable of liking someone, of being afraid, of yearning for a home with a woman who would accompany him throughout his life.

Zhou Ping didn't have his first child until he was nearly thirty.

At that time, Gu Jin was only twenty-two. The passage of time made Zhou Ping quite anxious, especially when he saw Zhou Siguī. He would always recall past jokes and clearly remember how Gu Jiusi and Zhou Ye had once considered marrying Gu Jin to Zhou Siguī.

Because of this, he never grew a beard, always maintaining a youthful appearance. When he went out with Gu Jin, they looked like a young married couple.

Zhou Siguī loved having fun and got along well with Gu Chang'an. The two often competed in cockfighting and bird catching, living enviably carefree lives. Later, the two put their heads together and embarked on a journey across thousands of miles of mountains and rivers—one the son of a powerful minister, the other a prince—packed their bags and wandered the martial world.

However, Gu Chang'an still had Gu Jiusi keeping him in check. Halfway through his travels, he was caught and brought back to begin his official career, while Zhou Siguī never returned, becoming a famously carefree prince who wandered freely throughout the land.

Ten years later, Zhou Ye passed away from illness, and Zhou Ping ascended the throne, establishing the Ganyuan era.During this period, Great Xia had long enjoyed peace and stability under Zhou Ye's governance. After Zhou Ping took over, he governed with restraint through law and practiced non-interference, leading to a cultural renaissance. Eventually, Great Xia's reputation for elegance spread far beyond its borders, earning respect and tribute from countless nations.

The era of Zhou Ye and Zhou Ping became known in history as the Minggan Prosperity.

This was an age blessed with the finest rulers, the most capable ministers, and the most virtuous citizens.

For Zhou Ping, beyond all this, the era also brought him the finest Gu Jin, the most exceptional Ye Yun, and the incomparable Liu Yu Ru.

This was the most beautiful and rarest of vistas.