[Alternate history, imperial examinations, mind games, post-marriage romance / historical romance and political intrigue / scheming male lead / healing wish fulfillment / one heroine] On a stormy night, Wen Zhimo, the illegitimate son of a marquis, is driven to the brink.
His stepmother, desperate to protect her own son, forces him to take the death sentence for “offending the imperial procession” at the Court of Judicial Review.
His fiancée, eager to climb the social ladder, shows up with their betrothal contract and humiliates him in public as she breaks off the engagement.
Wen Zhimo wipes the rain from his face and smiles gently. “Fine. I'll take the blame, and I'll end the engagement.”
Then he turns and places a black stone on the chessboard, setting his sights on the most untouchable madwoman in the capital: Lady Li Xiyue of Anhe County.
Everyone laughs. Wen Zhimo must be insane. She's a vicious woman who lashes out with her whip at the slightest provocation. He's practically asking to die!
But no one sees the thrill and calculation in Wen Zhimo's eyes as he watches the mad county lady.
