Reborn: The Emperor and Empress's Grand Design

[Rebirth and Revenge] [Powerful Allies and Political Intrigue] [Angst-Ridden Romance] [Bad Ending]

Poisoned wine from the Cold Palace coursed through her, but Lin Xingyi returned reborn, carrying a boundless hatred. She tore up her engagement to the scumbag and turned her attention to the cold and stern Crown Prince, Xiao Che. "Your Highness, I will help you ascend the throne. In return, grant me the position of empress and the means to take my revenge. Do we have a deal?"

The Eastern Palace was a deep and treacherous place. The Crown Princess, Xu Tian, was gentle and warm as the moon, the one who held Xiao Che's heart. Lin Xingyi stayed true to her role as an ally, helping him fight powerful ministers, quell rebellions, and plot to secure the realm. Her wounds from taking an arrow for him had yet to heal, but affection flourished amid schemes and bloodshed, and she secretly conceived his child.

But Xu Tian died in childbirth. Xiao Che's world collapsed, and love and grief twisted into obsession. With a single imperial decree, Lin Xingyi became empress, but in his eyes she was also a target for misplaced affection and a pawn in the struggle for power.

With an iron hand, she purged the court and harem, crushed the scheming white lotus and executed the scumbag, then installed her son as crown prince. When the rebels reached the city walls, she stood before Xiao Che with her sword in hand, only to hear him say wearily, "Empress, it is your turn to move the pieces."

The realm was secured, and the young emperor ascended the throne. She had poured out all her strength to plot the fate of the realm, but in the end, her life burned out. Having lived again, she avenged her great wrongs and wielded power over the court, yet never truly won that whole and undivided heart. In the endless night, only the new emperor remained, seated alone at the chessboard, ruling a realm stained with blood.