Two male leads + psychologically twisted top + timid, trouble-avoiding bottom + taking by force + oppression through power.
Chen Li was born into the war-torn state of Li. His family was not particularly wealthy, but his father had secured a minor position in the Imperial Household Department, so they never had to worry about food or clothing.
Chen Li was handsome, and his talent showed from an early age. He was praised as a “child prodigy.”
By the time he was a teenager, he was already famous. Many young ladies from prominent families admired this exceptionally gifted young man.
The Princess of Li fell for his handsome, refined, and gentle manner after meeting him just once, and confessed her feelings to him.
But Chen Li had grand ambitions from childhood, and knew that becoming the Princess’s consort would bring many restrictions and prohibitions in the political world.
He firmly but politely rejected her, breaking the young woman’s heart.
But without meaning to, he also attracted the attention of the Princess’s brother, Li Yan, known as the “Living Yama” for his cold, cruel, and treacherous nature.
Thus began a tale of love and bitter enmity between the two.
