Phoenix of the Ashes

She was the most ill-omened presence in the imperial palace. The words “Corpse Princess” were the hatred her father had carved into her. Min Shiji knew the human heart inside out and planned every step, all for the chance to survive. He was the empire’s youngest guardian. Beneath Chang Jinyao’s mild-mannered exterior lay the ruthless resolve and cunning of a master strategist. A marriage contract was what he needed, and an opportunity for her. After their wedding, they treated each other with respect, but as they tested and supported one another time and again, an untainted love took root. Min Shiji eventually rose to the pinnacle of power and became empress, yet criticism at court followed her like a shadow. When enemy forces threatened the empire, Chang Jinyao died on the battlefield protecting her and their homeland. He gave his life to crown her reign, and became the wound she could never heal.