This feels like reading a flower slowly withering. The story's emotional core is so sad. There's no chance for a happy reunion here. The relationship is over, killed by neglect and malice. The only question is whether Shen Weiyang will get her clean break and peace, or if Gu Yanzhi's clumsy attempts to 'fix' things will drag her into more pain. The reader's hope is not for the marriage, but for Shen Weiyang's personal victory. 2
The secondary characters are well-drawn too. Granny Su is that nosy but caring neighbor we all know. The little beggar Er Gou is a clever informant. Even the sisters-in-law have distinct voices—the first sister-in-law is quick to demand money, the second is feisty.
The way Sheng An casually pulls out a gun and says “one shot to the head, no pain” is chilling. She really means business. And Jiang Yu's immediate change of attitude? Comical and understandable.
The humor is subtle but present. Kozō thinking “My life is over!!!” when the water needle comes, or his internal rage at Tobirama’s “self-righteous” comment, makes me chuckle. It balances the darker political intrigue and keeps the tone from getting too heavy.