Fragrant Longing

Both are virgins | Clear-headed, ambitious schemer falls into obsession | Love-struck wolfdog turns into a vengeful ghost

Jiang Yao was born into a family of perfumers in Zhongdu and raised on the border for three years. When the two countries arranged a marriage alliance, she was summoned back to replace the princess and marry the neighboring kingdom's prince, Qi Sheng.

Qi Sheng was born to a lowly palace maid. He had a face as beautiful as jade but a vicious nature, and was known in official circles as the Jade-Faced King of Hell. Everyone kept their distance from him.

Before the wedding, he regarded her as a pawn the Crown Prince had rejected and sent to balance the political situation, a burden the court had tossed his way. He treated her with impeccable courtesy, but remained cold at every turn.

"The marriage has been arranged. I will obey the decree and go through with it. Let us treat each other with respect. Don't interfere in anything else."

In response to Qi Sheng's coldness, Jiang Yao made no attempt to curry favor. She honored their agreement and focused on investigating cases. She knew this was only a transaction. All she wanted was to avenge her great hatred and divorce him as soon as possible.

After the wedding, the Jade-Faced King of Hell, who made everyone tremble and was decisive and ruthless in front of others, clung to her all day once they were behind closed doors, like a puppy that couldn't bear to be left alone.

He fussed over her and stayed close even in bed, though he'd once kept his distance at every opportunity.

A year into their marriage, the candlelight flickered, then the warmth beneath the bed curtains faded.

"I want a divorce."

"A divorce?" Qi Sheng brushed the sweat from her flushed cheek, his fingertips tightening around her chin as he leaned over her. "Did I not satisfy you?"

His scorching breath touched her neck. "Or is it that you still... think about him?"

Jiang Yao met his gaze without a word.

"It doesn't matter," Qi Sheng said with a smile, his eyes icy. "Thinking about him won't help. In life, you're mine, and in death..."

"We'll share a grave."

Tips:

1. The leads grow over time. The earlier part has a little case-solving, while the later part has some court intrigue and a push-and-pull of love and hate.

2. The dynasty and official ranks are based on the Song Dynasty, with some original additions.

Theme: Women can be strong too.