"Our empire was built on blood and steel, not rulers weakened by... love."

"Then what about you? Is your heart made of blood, or of steel?"

***
As the daughter of a humble deputy general, Yang Zi Hua never imagined life beyond her borderland hometown, much less one in the imperial palace. But when the emperor chooses her as consort, her ideal peaceful life morphs into one of endless schemes.

Thrust into a rear palace of jealous rivals and faithless servants, Zi Hua sheds her innocence and learns to wield favour like a sword. Amidst battles fought with words and smiles, her only ally is her first love—the emperor himself, who swore his heart to her in the past.

But can a monarch's word be trusted? 

With each vicious conspiracy unravelled and two-faced enemy confronted, doubt awakens in Zi Hua: can she rise like a phoenix without betraying her values? And who is her lover, really? The doting persona he lets her see, or a cold, heartless royal?

***
Meanwhile, Li Zhen Tian faces choices of his own. Between colluding ministers, the domineering empress dowager, and threats of illegitimacy, sacrifices must be made to preserve his legacy.

Order, lover, or crown. 

Zi Hua ignited emotions he should never have felt—will it be enough to sway his power?

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
Palace drama > political intrigue > warfare

Foreword