Ji Suining, courtesy name Huairou, is the eldest legitimate daughter of Ji Mingyuan, the current Grand Chancellor.
Gentle and poised on the surface, she is in truth a player reborn with a second chance at life. In her previous life, her family backed the wrong side in the succession struggle, and she became a pawn sacrificed in the battle for the throne, dying from a cup of poisoned wine. Now she sees through people and has no interest in romance. She believes only in mutual benefit.
Chu Huaixu, courtesy name Chengye
The crown prince, born to the empress.
He appears to be a gentle, jade-like heir, but is really a hunter who plans every move. Surrounded by a suspicious emperor and watchful brothers, he has long since honed a keen eye for every detail and a decisive nature.
Their story begins with a frank “negotiation of cooperation.” He needs the resources and intelligence of the Grand Chancellor’s daughter; she needs his position as heir to secure a way for her family to survive.
Trust grows through precise teamwork in one crisis after another, and through the willingness to entrust their lives to each other. In time, it deepens into an understanding and cherishing of each other’s souls.
Two equally matched minds stay sharp throughout: no contrived schemes that make characters act foolishly. Their struggles revolve around political maneuvering, intelligence, and human nature.
Trust remains at the heart of their story, without third parties, misunderstandings, or impulsive breakups. Their love is a profound bond forged by a rational choice.
The heroine wins respect and status through her intelligence. She is no mere tool for romance.
