I actually don't like either the ML or 2nd ML. Both have their flaws and mistakes that can and can't be forgiven. Yan Ping never realize her gender and since then, he doesn't have equal or a balance opportunity in love. Yet for him to treat her the way he did, that is a lack of skill and thought. I think we demand too much from Yin Ping, yet he could have responded much better. The emperor, on the other hand, took advantage of her sorry state. I think she deserves to leave both men, live the life she wants to and slowly fall in love with someone who will lover her for her.