Alternate history + a heroine shaped by what she sees and hears + a seemingly sweet but secretly ruthless heroine + a young general + a young couple
This is my first time writing political intrigue. Please add it to your reading list! No one deliberately taught her the art of political maneuvering, but over fifteen years in the palace, those court disputes, sighs over old belongings, and casual talks of past events had quietly become part of her.
The early groundwork is full of subtle clues, and her growth follows the promise of “learning the art of intrigue without meaning to, and finding intrigue everywhere.” The intertwining side plots eventually converge on the main story! Fans of devoted, one-on-one couples can dive right in. This only applies to the main couple!
Here's a memorable scene to whet your appetite:
“You fear that his achievements will overshadow the throne, but you also fear what people will say. Then let me marry him. I am the Grand Princess's daughter. My status is noble, but I have no acknowledged father and no power base to speak of, so I am naturally the most suitable choice.”
“Loyalty to the throne and love of country are what Mother and Elder Sister taught me. Careful words and conduct are what the fallen soldiers taught me. This officer still has a young man's spirit, but fears making a wrong move. Today, I boldly beseech Your Majesty: grant me a hundred mu of fertile land, and let me become a prosperous farmer.”
