In the Great Jing Dynasty, if anyone asks who best embodies the refinement of the great aristocratic families, everyone would name Xiao Yunshu, the legitimate daughter of the Lanling Xiao clan.
She is peerlessly beautiful, hailed as “the greatest beauty,” and exceptionally talented in both calligraphy and painting, earning her the title of “the greatest female talent.” Yet beneath all that fame, her heart desires nothing more than a tranquil courtyard, where she can spend her days with poetry and wine alongside someone who understands and cherishes her.
Likewise, when it comes to the model aristocratic young gentleman, none surpasses Wang Zhiheng, the legitimate son of the Langya Wang clan.
Gentle as jade and graceful as bamboo, he is a refined gentleman praised by all at court and across the land. Yet his heart belongs to only one lovely figure.
At a palace banquet one night, their zither and flute played in harmony. Their dazzling encounter was the beginning of a fated love.
After that came the inscription of their names on the Wild Goose Pagoda, poetic discussions by the lakeside, and admiring the red leaves together at West Mountain... Amid the flourishing blossoms of the capital, two hearts that had long admired each other followed ancient traditions and slowly drew close in the most elegant fashion.
There are no schemes or family opposition, only the clear breeze and bright moon as witnesses to a love between equals, perfectly matched in status. See how this couple, hailed as “a perfect match,” weave the aristocratic grace of noble-born children together with the warmth and sweetness of ordinary life, creating a legend that will be passed down through the ages.
It's very heartwarming, and it comes naturally and slowly. As the introduction says, there are no plots, no family obstructions, and both male and female protagonists are acceptable.
The language is delicate and vivid, worth reading