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墨書 Inktalez
I traveled north under the alias A Wan.
The biting wind of the frontier cut into my face like a knife, starkly contrasting with the gentle warmth of Jiangnan.
I tightened my cloak around me, my heart filled with bitterness.
Eventually, I settled in a small town at the edge of the desert.
Everything here was at odds with the Jiangnan I knew.
The rugged customs and boisterous songs felt foreign and unsettling.
I buried myself in painting and calligraphy, my brush gliding across the paper as I tried to capture a sense of inner peace.
Yet, the laughter and joy of the past, along with the sweetness and pain I once knew, lingered stubbornly in my mind.
Days turned into weeks, and I gradually adapted to life in the north.
In the mornings, I practiced calligraphy in the courtyard, savoring the elegance of ink and brush.
In the afternoons, I read by the window, immersing myself in the world of books.
At night, I gazed at the starry sky, missing my loved ones far away.
I delved deeply into my art, my skills improving steadily, earning me a modest reputation in the area.
My paintings, infused with the grace of Jiangnan and the boldness of the frontier, were unique and attracted several collectors.
Occasionally, I would ask someone to inquire about Gu Heng's news.
I knew he was thriving in his career, rising steadily to become a promising young official.
I also knew he had not yet married.
This news stirred a mix of emotions within me.
I felt both happy for him and lost for myself.
Six years were enough to change many things.
I had transformed from a naive and carefree girl into a silent and reserved woman.
My heart gradually calmed down, like a still pond, without any ripples.
Until one day, I received a letter from home, learning that my sister, Xie Yu, was gravely ill.
The handwriting on the letter was delicate yet weak, filled with her longing for me.
My heart ached as if pricked by needles, unbearable in its pain.
I was anxious and restless, immediately packing my belongings and setting off on the journey home.
The long journey left me physically and mentally exhausted.
But the thought of my sick sister filled me with strength.
Returning to the capital after a long absence, I was overwhelmed with emotions.
The familiar streets and houses made me feel a wave of nostalgia.
It was as if I had never left.
"A Wan, you finally came back," Xie Yu said weakly with a smile when she saw me, tears glistening in the corners of her eyes.
She had lost much weight compared to my memories of her; her complexion was pale, yet she could not hide the tenderness that lay within her.
"Sister," I looked at her, filled with guilt. "Are you alright?"
My voice trembled slightly, and tears welled up in my eyes.
Xie Yu smiled, "I'm fine, just an old issue."
She took my hand, her gaze filled with affection.
She had prepared a feast to welcome me back, and Gu Heng and Ruan Lang were also present.
After six years apart, Gu Heng appeared more mature and composed, exuding an air of authority.
He remained handsome, but there was now a hint of sternness about him.
As for Ruan Lang, he seemed much steadier than before, having shed some of his previous frivolity.
"A Wan," Xie Yu beckoned me to sit down, "How have you been these years?"
Her voice was gentle, laced with concern.
I nodded, "Everything is well."
My response was brief but carried a weight of bitterness and helplessness.
During the meal, the guests discussed Gu Heng's career and expressed curiosity about why he had yet to marry.
Ruan Lang joked lightly, "Lord Gu, you are quite the sought-after figure now; why haven't you settled down yet?"
His tone was casual but held a hint of probing.
Gu Heng smiled faintly without answering, his gaze fixed on me.
His eyes were deep, as if trying to see through my soul.
"A Wan," his voice was low and magnetic, "Where have you been all these years?"
His tone was gentle, yet tinged with a hint of repression.
I paused for a moment, avoiding his gaze. "I wander aimlessly, without a place to call home."
My voice was soft, like the hum of a mosquito.
The guests erupted in laughter. "Miss A Wan, could it be that you still harbor feelings for Lord Gu?"
Their teasing tone made me feel embarrassed.
I shook my head. "The past is something I've long since let go."
My tone was firm, yet carried a trace of bitterness.
Gu Heng's expression shifted slightly; he fell silent, but the hand holding his wine glass tightened unconsciously.
A flicker of barely perceptible pain crossed his eyes.
"A Wan, have you truly moved on?"
His voice was low, meant only for my ears.
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