Contents
Chapter Thirty: The Deal
Overview
Zetian and Li Shimin strike a profit-based publicity deal with Gao Qiu, agreeing to let him rebrand them as a lucrative power couple. Gao Qiu tests control by tempting Shimin with alcohol and then isolates Zetian, coercing her to strip on camera. Zetian rejects shame as leverage, complies tactically, and vows to destroy Gao Qiu when their military success secures their power.
Summary
At Gao Qiu’s lavish reception, Zetian recognizes he aids them for profit and will spend only earnings they generate to lobby for a counterattack. Accepting that they must become assets, she and Li Shimin agree to let Gao Qiu control their public images to maximize revenue and influence.
Gao Qiu pitches brands: Shimin as the untouchable “bad boy,” Zetian as a provocative “fox spirit” femme fatale, together a power couple. With Shimin distracted by a liquor bottle and signaling he can’t think clearly, Zetian commits for them both, and they sign the contract.
Gao Qiu insists on a celebratory toast. When a maidservant pours, Shimin’s restraint buckles. Zetian deliberately spills his drink, claims concern for his qi, and drinks in his place to prevent relapse. Irritated, Gao Qiu sends Shimin to appease guests and keeps Zetian back under the pretext of discussing lodging for her family.
Alone, Gao Qiu drops his courteous mask. He confronts Zetian about her relationship with his son Gao Yizhi, accuses her of deceiving men, and asserts a doctrine of “equivalent exchange.” He then demands she strip and read their contract on camera to prove submission. Zetian, terrified, realizes this is about control, not sex.
Reframing shame as a weapon she can refuse, Zetian decides the recording will hold no power over her. She resolves to comply as a temporary tactic, vowing to kill Gao Qiu after she and Shimin win back Zhou and secure acclaim. She begins unzipping her pilot coat, planning future retribution.
Who Appears
- Wu ZetianAgrees to Gao Qiu’s branding deal, shields Shimin from alcohol, endures coercion, rejects shame as leverage, and secretly vows to kill Gao Qiu.
- Gao QiuPower broker funding their campaign for profit; rebrands them, tempts Shimin, isolates Zetian, and coerces a nude contract reading to assert control.
- Li ShiminStruggles with urge to drink; defers to Zetian’s decisions; sent away by Gao Qiu as Zetian is coerced.
- MaidservantPours liquor and witnesses the confrontation, her presence offering thin restraint but no intervention.