Li Empire is the largest and most prosperous territory in Yuan Continent—on the surface. Internally, it is divided: ministers collude with nobility, the empress and empress dowager contest for power, and the emperor faces threat of illegitimacy as long as his brother lives.

That is why, when Li Zhen Tian meets the kind and carefree Yang Zi Hua who understands him beyond the Dragon Throne, he irrevocably falls in love and makes her his consort.

However, the imperial palace's harsh reality shatters Zi Hua's dream of a peaceful life. Amidst jealous love rivals and endless plots, a seed of doubt is sown. Can their love flourish against adversity, or is it destined to wither like a flower past spring? 

***
Shangguan Jiu was Zi Hua's best friend—and her complete opposite. Cunning, rational, and fiercely ambitious, Jiu enters the rear palace to accomplish everything her friend couldn't. Though as she schemes for glory and honour, she realises the only way for a woman to be in power is not through a man's heart... but to be the hand controlling him.

Old enemies and grievances surface, while political tensions escalate with neighbouring nations, heralding a new era.

Love and war arise; tears and kingdoms fall. Does the ruler wear the crown, or are they a prisoner of the throne? 

***
Notes:
Cover art from Pinterest
2 Female leads
Palace drama > political intrigue > warfare

Foreword