Looking Toward Li

[No transmigration or rebirth, an old-world atmosphere, a young top scholar and a talented woman from a secluded household]

Born on the Winter Solstice beneath the sign of Heaven’s Pardon, she became the most ill-omened person in the Shen household. After fifteen years spent adrift, Shen Li returned, carrying a storm of snow and a heart full of hatred.

In the shadows of the inner household and amid the ashes of raging flames, she carefully planned every step for her own sake, only to stumble into a game of intrigue she had never expected.

At the Qionglin Banquet, the top scholar, warm as the winter sun, smiled and said, “A Li, I’ve made the world my board, but I’ve saved one opening just for you.”

Shen Li raised her eyes, the faintest curve touching her lips. Her voice was soft and unhurried. “You jest, Young Master Jiang. When a player holds the pieces, why would he need to promise them mercy?”