Thousand Verdant Mountains

• Author: Peng Lai Ke
• Genres: Cổ Đại, Romance, Cung Đấu
• Status: Completed
• Chapters: 238
• Rating: ★ 4.2 / 5
• Published: 2026-10-05

A Spring Night in Luoyang and Scattered Memories

A quiet spring night in the capital city of Luoyang sets the stage for our heroine's nostalgic and poignant journey. Into this bustling city steps Ye Xuyu, a fallen princess of the former Li dynasty, now hiding her true identity as a humble female painter. She harbors a quiet resolve to secure a painting position within the imperial palace, hoping to uncover the truth behind her turbulent past.

She is a young woman burdened by a heavy heart; her childhood memories were completely erased by the chaotic fall of her kingdom when she was only five years old. Although she has lived a peaceful life under the care of her kind adoptive father, Ye Zhongli, the quiet yearning to discover her roots burns undiminished. Stepping bravely into the dangerous world of high nobility is her first step toward reclaiming her identity.

The melancholic beauty of Luoyang seems to conceal the silent storms brewing around her. Every street corner, every crimson wall of the imperial palace whispers secrets of events that transpired over a decade ago. This journey is not merely a quest for her identity, but a direct confrontation with a cruel destiny.

Shadows of a Fallen Dynasty

The narrative gently guides us through ancient paintings, each concealing deep political secrets. Ye Xuyu's struggle to piece together her memories is fraught with danger, as various factions within the imperial court watch her every move. Her delicate brushstrokes unwittingly become the key to unlocking secrets buried for years.

In the dark shadows of power, old alliances and rivalries surface, exposing both bitter betrayal and fierce loyalty. The fall of the Li dynasty is not just her private pain; it is inextricably bound to the fate of numerous noble families. Surrounded by sinister conspiracies, she is forced to grow up quickly to survive.

Every step she takes inside the jade halls is shrouded in an atmosphere of bitter resentment and paranoia. The truth behind the dynasty's collapse unfolds layer by layer, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The author masterfully maintains this air of suspense until the very final pages.

A Tender Heart Behind the Gates of the imperial palace

Ye Xuyu is written with a delightful blend of playful warmth and profound sensitivity. The void in her memories leaves her yearning for a steadfast anchor in her life. Her love for her betrothed is both deeply passionate and tinged with the hesitation of a lost soul searching for a home.

In contrast, Pei Xiaoyuan, the nephew of Weiyuan's governor Pei Ji, is a steadfast Jinwu Guard. He carries himself with the cold, stoic demeanor of a soldier carrying the weight of his duty, yet beneath that armor lies an incredibly warm and attentive heart. The pairing of a whimsical painter and a stern protector creates a sweet, aching chemistry that tugs at the heartstrings.

Their relationship is built on more than just romantic sweetness; there is a profound, soul-deep understanding between them. Together, they weather the storms of the imperial court, shielding each other from the unseen arrows of malice and deceit. This bond deepens day by day, growing into the emotional strength they need to weather any storm.

Where Artistry Meets Political Intrigue

• A masterful blending of classical fine art with the high-stakes drama of ruthless court politics.
• A delicate and meticulous dissection of the protagonists' inner lives, making it incredibly easy for readers to empathize with their pain.
• A beautifully realistic romance between the artistic painter and her steadfast guard, filled with both sweet moments and bittersweet trials.
• The atmospheric recreation of Luoyang's imperial palace through poetic prose and evocative imagery.

Moments That Might Test Your Patience

• The pacing in the first half is relatively slow, focusing heavily on world-building, which might leave action-loving readers feeling a bit impatient.
• A few plot resolutions regarding Ye Xuyu's true identity feel slightly too neat and safe, lacking the groundbreaking twists that some might hope for.

Reader Feedback

• Novel Updates: 4.1/5.0 (54 votes, checked on 05/10/2026).

Readers on international forums have showered praise on the novel's lyrical and poetic prose. Many appreciate the depth of the romance, which steers clear of the typical tropes found in run-of-the-mill palace intrigues. However, some note that the slow burn of the opening chapters requires a healthy dose of patience.

Final Thoughts on a Beautiful Canvas

Spanning a well-paced 238 chapters, the novel delivers a highly satisfying conclusion that lingers long after the final page is turned. This is a perfect read for those who seek quiet contemplation and emotional depth. Every brushstroke and conversation showcases the author's emotional depth and masterful, assured penmanship.

The fallen princess's journey may have ended, but it opens a new chapter filled with hope and simple happiness. This novel richly deserves a spot on the bookshelf of any historical romance enthusiast. It is not just casual entertainment, but a deeply rewarding artistic experience.

The novel is a gorgeous historical tapestry, seamlessly blending the elegance of classical art with the depth of political intrigue. It is an ideal choice for readers who cherish subtle character growth and sincere, slow-burning romance.

Tags: romance, historical, palace intrigue