Is he maneuvering to claim the realm, or to win one person?
A new emperor ascends the throne, and undercurrents begin to stir.
The cool and reserved censor Qi Qinghe carries a blood feud. Treading carefully through the world of political intrigue, all he seeks is justice.
The powerful minister Shen Changwei is as deep and unfathomable as the sea. Everyone says he is ruthless and merciless, yet he repeatedly makes exceptions for Qi Qinghe.
A bizarre poisoning case and a bloodstained note reading "Willows on the riverbank at the third watch" drag them both into the heart of a maelstrom.
One finds a sliver of hope amid mountains of corpses, while the other lays an earth-shattering plot amid boundless wealth and privilege.
From the imperial court to the canals, every step is a plunge into an abyss.
He asks, "Lord Shen, you keep approaching me. What are you after?"
He smiles, his eyes unfathomable. "What if I said I want to join forces with you and purge this rotten court? Would you believe me?"
He dares not ask, afraid the answer will be a scheme.
He dares not reply, afraid the answer will be sincere.
[Reading Guide]
Powerful x powerful | Political intrigue | Happy ending | Mutual salvation
Scheming minister who seems gentle but is secretly ruthless, gong x cool-headed and resolute censor, shou
P.S. This is a newbie author's first story, so please be kind (⋟﹏⋞). I'm trying my hand at political intrigue!
One-on-one romance (primarily from the shou's perspective).
The romance between the two leads may be a little slow-burn.
Thank you so much for reading! I'll do my best! Comments and support are always welcome!
Also, during summer and winter breaks, I update every three days with 1-2 chapters. (Of course, if I have time, I'll update daily.) On weekdays, I only have time on weekends (╥_╥), so sorry! I'll do my best! Updates are usually around 2 p.m. Expect surprise updates...
Theme: Finding unconditional trust and love in a sea of political intrigue, self-interest, and schemes.
