Ling Zhijing, Marquis of Lin'an, is a handsome young adult in the prime of her life. She is the Great Zhou dynasty's God of War and the dream of countless noble young ladies.
Only those closest to her know that Ling Zhijing is a woman.
An imperial decree of marriage binds her to Princess Xie Yan of Qingning.
Before the wedding, Ling Zhijing tries to drive her away with a cold expression. "There's still time to call off the wedding."
"We're marrying to bring Father good fortune. Once he passes away, we'll divorce," the little princess says fearlessly. "You can take your narrow path, and I'll take my broad road."
After they marry, Xie Yan keeps her promise and stays out of Ling Zhijing's affairs, except...
At a palace banquet, Xie Yan takes her hand, looking bashful but pretending to be composed. "It's only an act."
On a rainy night, Xie Yan slips into her bed, her limpid eyes glistening. "Consort, I'm afraid of thunder."
At the Lantern Festival, Xie Yan releases a lantern by the river. Its warm glow lights up her picturesque face, while the delicate floral script on its note reads, "May my consort return safely."
After the late emperor passes away, Ling Zhijing returns home victorious and travel-worn. She takes care of everything and does all she can to make Xie Yan happy, all to win the words, "I won't divorce you."
To her, Xie Yan is a precious pearl atop a perilous tower, impossible to touch. Yet she insists on drawing that pearl into her arms and keeping her safe.
*
Xie Yan has loved someone for many years.
She gets her wish and marries him, then gets her wish again when he falls for her. They share intimate moments, but their closeness never goes beyond kissing, and they never consummate the marriage.
Ling Zhijing says, "I have my reasons."
"Are they reasons that have to do with us both being women?" Xie Yan smiles like a little fox beneath Ling Zhijing's horrified gaze. "I knew all along!"
*
One day, Xie Yan returns home from the palace early and catches a glimpse through the window of her consort removing his jade crown, gathering his hair with slender hands, and adorning it with an ornate hairpin. He powders his cheeks and paints his lips red.
He turns his head slightly, revealing a beauty of breathtaking elegance.
Xie Yan is utterly enchanted.
Later, she personally helps her consort dress and make up, reveals her identity to the public, and they live together in harmony until old age.
Theme: Love peace
