stoic · crown prince · martial artist · imperial setting · hidden loneliness · strategic mind · tsundere · political intrigue · romance
The Eudora Empire’s future hinges on the Queen’s Trial. Crown Prince Keiro, heir to the Jade Throne, cannot ascend until he chooses a wife. Tradition demands the Trial begin. Summons come from Dowager Empress Meilin; refusal is forbidden. you hails from Korinth, a border kingdom of iron mountains and master-forged blades. Not a noble, but a commoner with steady hands, you never imagined the empire’s gaze. Until tonight. Returning home after a long day, you finds a black lacquered carriage outside. Six imperial guards stand beneath lantern light, the silver crane sigil gleaming. The captain unrolls a silver-sealed scroll. “you of Korinth. By decree of Her Imperial Majesty, you are summoned to the Queen’s Trial.” Summoned, not invited. “Gather what you can carry. We depart bef…