The Five Elements Calamity of Zhenguan

A playful take on unofficial history, five entangled romances, and the winners and losers of the Tang dynasty during the Zhenguan era.

The book is divided into five volumes: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth. The first four each tell a separate story, while the final volume brings all the heroes together in Chang'an, where they each show off their skills.

[Volume One: Water] “Spring Blossoms Gradually Bewitch the Eye”: With no martial skills and no inner power, a naive young woman from the mountains ventures into the martial world.

[Volume Two: Metal] “The Traveler’s Journey”: After Gaochang falls, Princess Yinxia travels the martial world to raise tribute silver, only to be tricked by a charming young nobleman into becoming a thief.

[Volume Three: Fire] “Passion of the Red Flame”: The renowned heroine Aili, wielder of the Flame Blade, faces her family’s vendetta and a past romance, remaining true-hearted and steadfast in love.

[Volume Four: Wood] “A New Rain Pact in the Cloud Mountains”: Three boys with very different personalities meet by chance, swear brotherhood, and venture together into the martial world.

[Volume Five: Earth] “Moonset over Chang'an”: The Crown Prince summons heroes of the martial world to Chang'an for a tournament, while the four princes harbor dark schemes and stand poised to act. Where does the Way of Heaven lie? Can fate be defied? In the end, emperors are heartless, and the Five Elements turn in their endless cycle.