Splendor Lost in Troubled Times

She was an ordinary girl, quiet and free of worldly desires, but the ominous mark on her face made the world reject her.

She longed for a peaceful life and a far-reaching future, yet was driven into a deadly place of bloodshed and chaos.

Since everyone believed she was a calamity incarnate, then she would show the world just how disastrous she could be.

She would sever the seven emotions and six desires, forsake love, and show no mercy.

Those who offered her false affection would receive false affection in return.

Those who sought to destroy her would be condemned to eternal ruin.

In this chaotic age, where human life is worth no more than grass, only those who rise above others can escape a lifetime of hardship...

And yet, when all the splendor has faded and she looks back, who will be waiting for her where the lanterns grow dim?

[Note: Zi is good at heart, and only occasionally has a slightly twisted, neurotic moment. Zi’s friends all agree that Zi is definitely not the wicked stepmother type, though she does like to give readers a little angst every now and then!]

[Dear readers, if this story is to your taste, please click “Add to Favorites” and take this humble servant home!]