[Two male leads] [Mutual devotion] [Happy ending]
A ruthless, calculating crown prince who’s on the receiving end × A loyal general who fought his way out of the slums, who’s on the pursuing end
It began with an unexpected encounter in the forest and grew into a carefully laid plan. He thought he was merely a pawn on the board, never realizing he had long since become part of the game.
At their most reckless, the crisp scent of absinthe mingled with the dark fragrance of black mandrake. He pressed his burning lips to the other’s ear and asked hoarsely:
“Your Highness, you scheme against the whole world, but have you ever considered this: I would die for you?”
His pale fingers brushed over the other’s brows and eyes. He smiled, dazzling enough to turn heads. “I have. But I never thought... I’d be unable to bear losing you.”
He won his beloved over through relentless pursuit, playing the victim, acting cute, and, above all, a heart that would never waver.
Side couple: A spirited, scheming imperial princess Alpha × The late emperor’s gentle, resilient Consort Shu Omega
They began by protecting each other in a dark room and ended beneath the open sky. He thought she was an Omega; she thought he had only been kind on a whim. But love is never something you can control.
Extra: From wary to reliant, from confidants to lovers. He used every trick in the book to win her over, and she gave him the rest of her life.
Tone and themes
Sweet and angsty throughout, with plenty of romantic tension early on, children, a happy reunion, and a home to return to after a turbulent journey.
The main couple doesn’t suffer. The author is the one who can’t bear to put them through hardship.
