Contents
Chapter Nineteen: My Polar Star
Overview
Yizhi secretly reaches Zetian after Xing Tian’s assault, comforts her, and apologizes for past manipulation. He updates her on public speculation, highlights systemic misogyny behind Iron Widows’ suppression, and reveals Li Shimin’s unexpected scholarly and artistic past. To protect Zetian, Yizhi proposes befriending Li Shimin as a pretext to remain nearby; Zetian, conflicted, agrees.
Summary
Zetian, traumatized after Xing Tian’s attack, is shocked when Yizhi appears in her bunker. He comforts her, apologizes for previously trying to buy her freedom, and affirms his devotion, calling her his “polar star,” which breaks through her defenses and brings her brief peace.
Practical concerns intrude as they consider reporting the attack’s timing to avoid suspicion and keeping their connection secret from the army. Yizhi shows Zetian message boards: censors failed to quell the fascination, and rumors dehumanize her. Photos with Li Shimin shift discourse to appearances, unsettling Zetian.
They discuss the absence of female-controlled Chrysalises. Yizhi argues the system protects male pilots’ status and fears of women’s lethal potential. Zetian vents her frustration with gendered limits and jokes about unintended consequences of wishing to be a different “kind” of boy.
Yizhi probes about Li Shimin. Seeing flasks, he insists sobriety is necessary for piloting. He then shares research: Li Shimin topped a prestigious high school while fighting in underground rings to fund studies, and he produced refined calligraphy and poetry. Zetian resists softening toward him, noting how narrative order skews judgment.
Seeking a way to help openly, Yizhi proposes befriending Li Shimin to justify staying near their unit. Though alarmed by the risks, Zetian—shaken by the assault and craving an ally—accepts the plan, resolving to manage the fallout.
Who Appears
- Wu ZetianTraumatized after assault; finds solace in Yizhi’s support; analyzes public reaction and systemic misogyny; wary of Li Shimin yet agrees to Yizhi’s risky plan.
- Gao YizhiSecretly visits, rescues and comforts Zetian; apologizes; provides intel on public discourse; reveals Li Shimin’s past; proposes befriending him to protect Zetian.
- Li ShiminOffstage focus of discussion; alcoholic partner in solitary; revealed as a top student, fighter, and calligrapher; central to Yizhi’s plan.
- Xing TianPilot who assaulted Zetian; his attack prompts secrecy concerns and deepens fears about male pilots’ hostility.
- Sima YiStrategist mentor; Zetian and Yizhi plan when to inform him about the assault’s timing.