[A commanding female lead · devoted obsession · taboo pseudo-siblings · dual happy endings · fictional dynasty · women can serve in government]
Jiang Yuxi, the princess of Prince Hong's estate, has three great qualities:
A clever head for strategy, a sharp mind, and a knack for keeping score.
She can debate the court's ministers into silence and take down political rivals with a flick of her hand. Her motto: settle every score on the spot, and never leave a grudge for tomorrow.
One day, she lured in a “pack leader” who had fought his way out of a wolf pack:
Bai Muheng, the legitimate son of a general's household.
Out in public, this wolf is decisive and ruthless, keeping everyone at a distance.
At home, he begs for head pats and hugs, terrified his owner will abandon him.
Bai Muheng: “Your Highness, actually, I'm a doggy. Woof…”
Jiang Yuxi raised an eyebrow. “Bai Muheng, my game is about winning and losing. Feelings have no place in it.”
Bai Muheng immediately offered up everything he owned, his eyes brimming with emotion. “Your Highness, this is my toll for the road ahead. If you win, give me a place by your side. If you lose, I'll be your watchdog for the rest of my life. How about it?”
Later, when the crown prince ascended the throne, she was granted the title of princess for her unparalleled achievements.
He became a powerful general who held sway over the court, yet still asked her late at night how she felt about him.
He presented her with an imperial edict granting their marriage, his eyes just like those of the big dog who had once begged her to take him in.
“Your Highness, in this life, I seek neither power nor profit.”
“I only ask the princess to give me a place by her side.”
