The new emperor, Gu Hansong, was decisive and wielded power over all under heaven.
Ever since that woman fell from the city tower, her name had become forbidden in the imperial palace.
When Xiliang submitted to the empire, a courtier searched the frontier far and wide to win the emperor's favor, and at last found a tea seller.
"Your Majesty, look," the man said excitedly. "This woman looks just like her! It must be fate. She can stay by Your Majesty's side and ease your longing."
Those nearby held their breath, wondering whether becoming the substitute of an emperor who had lost his beloved would bring this woman fortune or disaster.
But Gu Hansong recognized her at a glance.
Ten years to the summit, his path washed in blood and rain.
He diverted rivers to search for her bones, all to find even a trace of her. His supposed benevolent policies of reducing taxes and promoting medicine were nothing more than an attempt to beg the blind heavens to return the star that had fallen from his sky.
The girl who had died for him was right before his eyes.
For one instant, time seemed to freeze, and the mountains and rivers fell silent.
But Yu Buyue, who had lost her memory, looked up at him in confusion. Her clear eyes reflected his shattered image. "Your Majesty, you've mistaken me for someone else."
Blurb dated 2025.6.5
Theme: Even when mired in the mud, keep facing the sun.
