Crimson Ashes

As the old order crumbled and the dynasty fell, the Chang family lost its standing and abandoned scholarship for business. All six daughters became pawns in marriage alliances.

Chang Yiwan was the fifth daughter. She was neither the eldest legitimate daughter, who was highly valued, nor the youngest, whose mother held influence and who was doted on.

By chance, she became engaged to Shen Yanheng, the son of a powerful military family.

Born into a warlord household, Shen Yanheng was familiar with exchanges of favors. He assumed this marriage was nothing more than an ordinary political bargain. But when he met this woman, cast aside by her family, whose gentle nature concealed a clear mind and quiet resilience, she slowly changed the way he thought about marriage. They came to understand and cherish one another, crossed a country engulfed in war, and stood together through the tides of history, holding fast to their beliefs until they grew old together.

A little scene:

An argument between husband and wife

Shen Yanheng stepped closer, his voice hoarse. "Leave? Where do you want to go?"

"Anywhere is fine." Chang Yiwan's eyelashes trembled. "We only married because we each needed something from the other."

"Each needed something from the other? Fine. Then it looks like it's time to negotiate again."

"There's nothing left to bargain with."

"And why not?" Shen Yanheng's gaze settled on her flat stomach, his eyes filled with burning, obsessive desire. "I need an heir, and you need to finish your studies."

"A child can't be part of a bargain!"

"Do you really think you still have the right to negotiate?" Shen Yanheng could hardly wait to get this woman's belly round with a child!

Making up...

Shen Yanheng: "You were the one who kissed me first last night."

Chang Yiwan: "I didn't!"

After their passionate encounter, Shen Yanheng had the upper hand.

"Do you still dare bring up divorce?" Shen Yanheng: "Answer me!"

"No..."

"Say it clearly!"

"I'm not divorcing you."