People say Nian Chen is the Northern Yue Dynasty's most brilliant strategist, a ruthless and decisive general with a handsome face.
Rumor has it he abandoned his marriage to the eldest princess and gave up a glorious official career for a princess from the countryside. They say he risked his life and won brilliant military victories just to secure her a chance to live. Yet the stories also say he poured her a cup of poisoned wine with his own hands.
Did she really die just like that? Was she the general's beloved, or merely a pawn in his political schemes?
She is the Emperor's daughter, lost to the world. Orphaned as a child, she was sold by distant relatives to a family seeking good fortune through marriage. Rather than be forced into a wedding, she chose to end her life.
Dressed in a red bridal gown, she leapt from a window, passionate and resolute, like a graceful butterfly with no thought for where she might land. And then she crashed right into his arms.
To avoid being sent away in a political marriage, Chu Nian pointed at Nian Chen in front of all the civil and military officials and sobbed, "I'm carrying the general's child!"
At her words, everyone gasped.
The officials exchanged looks. Wow! What a juicy royal scandal!
The eldest princess fainted on the spot. You country girl! How dare you steal my man!
The Empress gritted her teeth in fury. Your mother stole my man, and now you want to steal my daughter's man!
Marquis Dingbei was speechless with rage. You unfilial brat! You've ruined my plans!
The Emperor stared in shock. This is the brilliant plan you were talking about, Nian Chen?
Nian Chen gave no answer, the corner of his mouth lifting slightly. Princess, you've finally realized that getting close to me is your best choice.
Only after they marry does Chu Nian discover that some people who seem cool-headed and self-restrained are putting on an act!
Rubbing her aching waist, Chu Nian wears a look of regret. I should've just gone off for a political marriage.
Nian Chen chuckles and lifts the corner of the quilt. Come along, wife. The bed's all warm.
