Ink of Astonishment

“South of the river, a tall tree stands, beneath which one cannot rest. By the Han River, a wandering maiden walks, whom none can reach. Rumor has it that the eldest daughter of the Lan family is aloof and proud, too refined for ordinary company, sharp-tempered, and difficult to approach. But in an age of war, she showed her devotion to her country and its people, offering counsel and plans with a boundless heart. She was never one to seek the spotlight for herself. “Why do you care what other people say?” Under the blazing June sun, the young man picked a leaf and twirled it between his fingers. “The eldest daughter of the Lan family was born noble. How could she ever be compared to those mired in the mud?” Lan Zijing gave a faint nod, her clear eyes fixed on the young man. “How do you know I was born noble, Your Highness?” The young man smiled. “Because you are Lan Zijing.” And Lan Zijing had always been a woman of unbreakable pride. *The author is twelve this year and doesn't have an ID card. I used my grandma's ID to sign the contract, so please don't get the wrong idea!*