This epilogue concludes here. This book can now, at this very moment, be declared finished.

I, too, feel a lingering reluctance to part. This book began in January, accompanying me for nine months, and during these nine months, I laughed and cried alongside these characters; naturally, feelings have formed.

Many readers have mentioned that this book prompted them to experience many "firsts" in their lives. In truth, was I not the same?

My first time breaking six million views. My first time gaining fourteen Mengzhu (Alliance Leaders).

My first time topping the Pink Ticket charts. My first time witnessing a half-hour barrage of donations from readers pooling their resources just to secure votes for me—a spectacle usually reserved for the main site, which I was fortunate enough to encounter.

These many "firsts" brought me more than just excitement; most importantly, they gave me confidence. To move and touch the readers, one must first be moved and touched by the story oneself.

Reverence—for the story, and for the readers—is essential. I shall carry this spirit of reverence forward.

Finally, thank you once again. Thank you for subscribing, thank you for your patronage, thank you for giving me the confidence, the opportunity, to continue writing with full assurance and [original text omitted/implied] to keep writing.

Those who loved this book, those who didn't; those who liked it, those who detested it; those who were moved, those who were disgusted—it all ends now. When you look back, I hope you do so with happiness and joy.

If you cannot find happiness or joy, then please forget me; I apologize, it is my fault. For the next book, the same words stand: read the book, don't watch me.

If you like it, walk with me; if not, perhaps we shall meet again. Please believe that I genuinely wish for every single person to be happy and joyful.

If I fail in that, please be generous with your understanding. Farewell.

I love you all. Xi Xing, October 4, 2013 (To be continued)