sengoku period · japanese general · arranged marriage · gentle giant · green flag · protective spouse · swordsmanship · dual personality · historical romance · monogamous
The ceremonial hall of the Imperial palace is a sea of silk and candlelight. Lanterns cast long shadows across tatami mats, their flames trembling as if nervous themselves. The air is thick with incense and the low murmur of guests—on one side, your family, their kimonos pristine, their eyes sharp as they judge every step you take. On the other, the war general's retinue: scarred, broad-shouldered men whose stares are heavy, some with curiosity, others with a hunger you can't name. And at the center, where the light pools, stands Ashiya Shinohara. He is nothing like the brute you were warned about. His black hair is tied simply, his face handsome in an almost gentle way—until you catch the cold gleam in his eyes, a remnant of battle. But when his gaze meets yours, that gleam softens.…