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Ballad of Sword and Wine #4
Ballad of Sword and Wine: Qiang Jin Jiu (Novel) Vol. 4
OPENING GAMBIT
Having successfully foiled the bandit attack on the city of Cizhou in Zhongbo, Xiao Chiye sets off in pursuit of their leader, attempting to cut their enemy off before he returns to his lair. At the same time, having gained control of Cizhou, Shen Zechuan sets his sights on neighboring Chazhou, with which he hopes to broker a trade agreement. But Chazhou is a lawless place, ruled by a ruthless bandit chief who has long neglected the starving populace. If Shen Zechuan wishes to make his mark here, he must rely not on any army, but his own cunning.
As Shen Zechuan fights for a foothold in Zhongbo, a new power is rising in the capital of Qudu, and those with ambition eye the throne from all sides. The board is set for a game of wits that will decide the fate of the nation—and Shen Zechuan is playing to win.
Having successfully foiled the bandit attack on the city of Cizhou in Zhongbo, Xiao Chiye sets off in pursuit of their leader, attempting to cut their enemy off before he returns to his lair. At the same time, having gained control of Cizhou, Shen Zechuan sets his sights on neighboring Chazhou, with which he hopes to broker a trade agreement. But Chazhou is a lawless place, ruled by a ruthless bandit chief who has long neglected the starving populace. If Shen Zechuan wishes to make his mark here, he must rely not on any army, but his own cunning.
As Shen Zechuan fights for a foothold in Zhongbo, a new power is rising in the capital of Qudu, and those with ambition eye the throne from all sides. The board is set for a game of wits that will decide the fate of the nation—and Shen Zechuan is playing to win.
422 pages, Paperback
Published May 27, 2025
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1488 people want to read
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August 13, 2025
Xiao Chiye and Shen Zechuan are really out here just raising the bar for ultimate power couples.
God I love nothing more than two competent power houses who match each other's freak on every level; both smart, cunning, vicious and capable of kicking ass, whilst unable to keep their hands off each other.🤌🏼🤌🏼
Xiao Chiye looked at Shen Zechuan for a moment, then ducked his head, burying his face in the crook of Shen Zechuan’s neck. All his earlier feelings had dissolved with this one glance at Shen Zechuan, turning into a raging torrent that surged from his heart through his entire body. Yet no matter how these tempestuous waves battered him, he was hesitant to exert so much as the tiniest bit of force in this embrace.
Over the years he had spent in Qudu, that kick he had given Shen Zechuan the day they met had turned, silently and secretly, into jolts of pain that seized Xiao Chiye’s heart whenever he thought of it. The heavy storm they had weathered together had scoured that turbulent sea of love and hate until only a crystal-clear lake remained. Xiao Chiye retracted his talons, bowing his head in submission before the word love.
Me everytime Xiao Chiye and Shen Zechuan are on page together 🥰💕❤️🔥🫰🏼✨
Me trying to keep track of the story with Xue Xiuzhuo and the various imperial succession lines and characters in the imperial court 🤔🤕😵💫🥴🙃
Bless the character map for real. Like, context cues had me picking up the thread relatively easily, but I would still have to periodically double check who’s fuckery I was reading about.
4.5 stars for all the scheming ✨
To others, cows’ milk was the same everywhere. But to Xiao Chiye, what came from Libei was unique, and could never be replaced by anything else. He set aside his own portion, and despite knowing it wouldn’t keep, he still wanted to send it to Shen Zechuan. What if it was somehow delivered on time and still drinkable? They ought to eat and drink all delicious things together.
That was what Xiao Chiye had been thinking; other people might not understand, but Shen Zechuan knew it very well.
NOT XIAO CHIYE OUT HERE SOMEHOW MANAGING TO MAKE POSTING SPOILT MILK ROMANTIC AS FUCK. JESUS CHRIST THIS MAN.
God I love nothing more than two competent power houses who match each other's freak on every level; both smart, cunning, vicious and capable of kicking ass, whilst unable to keep their hands off each other.🤌🏼🤌🏼
Xiao Chiye looked at Shen Zechuan for a moment, then ducked his head, burying his face in the crook of Shen Zechuan’s neck. All his earlier feelings had dissolved with this one glance at Shen Zechuan, turning into a raging torrent that surged from his heart through his entire body. Yet no matter how these tempestuous waves battered him, he was hesitant to exert so much as the tiniest bit of force in this embrace.
Over the years he had spent in Qudu, that kick he had given Shen Zechuan the day they met had turned, silently and secretly, into jolts of pain that seized Xiao Chiye’s heart whenever he thought of it. The heavy storm they had weathered together had scoured that turbulent sea of love and hate until only a crystal-clear lake remained. Xiao Chiye retracted his talons, bowing his head in submission before the word love.
Me everytime Xiao Chiye and Shen Zechuan are on page together 🥰💕❤️🔥🫰🏼✨
Me trying to keep track of the story with Xue Xiuzhuo and the various imperial succession lines and characters in the imperial court 🤔🤕😵💫🥴🙃
Bless the character map for real. Like, context cues had me picking up the thread relatively easily, but I would still have to periodically double check who’s fuckery I was reading about.
4.5 stars for all the scheming ✨
To others, cows’ milk was the same everywhere. But to Xiao Chiye, what came from Libei was unique, and could never be replaced by anything else. He set aside his own portion, and despite knowing it wouldn’t keep, he still wanted to send it to Shen Zechuan. What if it was somehow delivered on time and still drinkable? They ought to eat and drink all delicious things together.
That was what Xiao Chiye had been thinking; other people might not understand, but Shen Zechuan knew it very well.
NOT XIAO CHIYE OUT HERE SOMEHOW MANAGING TO MAKE POSTING SPOILT MILK ROMANTIC AS FUCK. JESUS CHRIST THIS MAN.
Read
November 6, 2025 staring into his eyes, xiao chiye enunciated each word as he repeated, "i love you."
dumbstruck, shen zechuan took a moment to find his voice. "i-"
but xiao chiye couldn't wait any longer. he kissed shen zechuan hard, as if with that kiss, he could convey all the love in his heart he could never express with words alone. the cool breeze in the courtyard stirred the bamboo blinds, and under the eaves, the shadows of the flowers shifted with the slanting light of the sun. that golden light, having slipped around the garden, now lay across the floor at their feet.
beautiful like always. the more-so domestic? fluff of cezhou was so unbelievably cute. one of xiao chiye’s biggest love language being gift giving is sooo cute. the matching armguards, him giving the spoiled milk because he still wanted to share his experiences with shen zechuan, and the perfection of the jade of shen zechaun’s earring! oh, they’re so precious. then, how his falcon treats shen zechuan so softly… and how xiao chiye is haunted by the kick he gave him when they were enemies… and how he begged ji gang to take care of shen zechuan… and then you have shen zechuan only being able to sleep if xiao chiye is there, sending his clothing to comfort xiao chiye when they were parted, and not thinking of xiao chiye as second to anyone… beautiful.
i wish shen zechuan could shine a bit more in this volume like he usually does but obviously, he’s still so cool and conniving. xiao chiye was sooooo… so. i love him so much. that battle with the bandits and then huhelu literally made me scream, he’s sooo amazing. i love how they’re both so ambitious and greedy for more and to be more. love, love, love.
i’m becoming more unexpectedly attached to the side characters as i read more volumes. i like the members of their side like ding tao or tantai hu… tell me why i was aghast when i thought tantai hu was going to die against huhelu, so unexpected. also, somehow cared about and liked hai lingyi? i’m a little intrigued by li jianting cause hm, female emperor. i’m also interested in yao wenyu now, that ending really made me very curious about him. but, i’m dubious about the relationship between him and qiao tianya (who im not that compelled by). excited for the upcoming wlw relationship… in which volume will i finally see that. also, that unexpected old man yaoi between luo mu and kong ling moved me so much. that made me so bittersweet.
generally, excited to see how the plot progresses. i’m a little scared about these troubles within the xiao clan, but i know they love each other so i don’t know what’s gonna happen there… so excited for xiao chiye to prove himself to the libel armoured cavalry though. the political plot and the war with the biansha tribes have me on edge. i really liked the illustrations in this volume, i feel like they really improved (that one with cezhou and then xiao chiye on demon mode, mmm…). the cover was lovely as well - the many crows signifying the sun and the actual sun so close to shen zechuan’s mouth when shen zechuan considers xiao chiye the sun is so!! i need the next volume right now, please.
1.
skin damp from his bath, xiao chiye walked out and crouched nimbly behind shen zechuan as he dried his hair. hand still tugging at the branch of jasmine, shen zechuan looked back. xiao chiye dipped his head and kissed him. the setting sun was a burnished gold, and the world was silent and still; even the wind considerately left the courtyard to the two of them.
turning, shen zechuan pounced on xiao chiye, knocking him to the ground. leaning back against the door frame, xiao chiye hugged him tightly and pressed the tip of his nose to shen zechuan's check, saying fiercely, "you're pressing against my wounded heart." shen zechuan threw the pieces of crumpled orange jasmine into xiao chiye's pocket and said, "let me feel it."
xiao chiye did not. he grabbed hold of shen zechuan's wrists and pulled him closer. he was strong and fit, and it didn't strain him in the slightest to bear shen zechuan's weight. even the way he sat was carefree and unrestrained, one foot propped on his knee. the two of them sat with their arms around each other as dusk turned to night.
2.
as his horse broke into a gallop, he heard the sound of frantic hoofbeats flanking him. snowcrest had charged to the head of the group. to huhelu's surprise, the horse quickly overtook his swift pony. glancing over, a sudden and visceral terror struck his heart-he almost thought xiao fangxu himself was at his shoulder. but xiao chiye was even taller than his father. as the two sped through the night, huhelu got a clear look at a pair of eyes completely unlike xiao fangxu's, brimming with a greed so insatiable it shook him to the core.
huhelu felt the hair on his neck rise. he understood from that gaze that there would be no escape for him. sharp fangs were pressing in, inches away.
3.
he held up the letter, letting his eyes linger on each word: it's been too many days since we parted. i know you must miss me, so i've sent a small token to offer you comfort. touch it as if you touched me.
xiao chiye stared at that line of text and read it once more. touch it as if you touched me.
his throat felt dry, but laughter bubbled up inexplicably, and his gaze grew fierce.
4.
xiao fangxu paused; his gaze was deep. "the libei armored cavary is in urgent need of a new commander. this person must be unlike the rest of us — our polar opposite, even. he must tear off the layer of scholarly elegance that jiming has established. he must be avaricious and savage. he has to make the libei armored cavalry ravenous; he must be the wolf that leads the hunt."
5.
why didn't i marry?
kong ling repeated the words to himself in silence and slowly started laughing. he was already an old man, yet at this moment, he gave off the same aura of gentleness and composure he had possessed in his youth. there were still will and spirit in those eyes, even if they were no longer so bright as they had once been. clutching the packet of pastries, he said, "i should go."
the wind skated over the blades of grass. kong ling turned without waiting for luo mu's reply.
luo mu stood and watched kong ling's sleeves flutter amid the breeze. his throat tightened. he couldn't help taking a step after him, nor reaching out with his hand. the dusting of white in kong ling's hair seemed to disperse in the wind, covered by the dancing leaves swirling past. dazed, luo mu felt he was seeing through time, to a moment many years ago.
kong ling had missed a great number of things in his life, but not because he didn't fight for them. he had once tossed and turned in bed over an invitation, yet all that had greeted him after pacing to and fro as he waited in the school courtyard was a downpour summer rain. he’d waited in the rain until his eyes were wet. after that, he’d traveled far from home and settled in a distant land.
luo mengzheng was a fickle man.
that day in the rain, kong chengfeng had come to understand this many years later, he waited again, yet all he had to show for this endeavor was a bloodstained hem.
both times, luo mu did not come. and after today, kong ling and luo mu would never cross paths again.
beautiful like always. HAUNTED by the last quote.
dumbstruck, shen zechuan took a moment to find his voice. "i-"
but xiao chiye couldn't wait any longer. he kissed shen zechuan hard, as if with that kiss, he could convey all the love in his heart he could never express with words alone. the cool breeze in the courtyard stirred the bamboo blinds, and under the eaves, the shadows of the flowers shifted with the slanting light of the sun. that golden light, having slipped around the garden, now lay across the floor at their feet.
beautiful like always. the more-so domestic? fluff of cezhou was so unbelievably cute. one of xiao chiye’s biggest love language being gift giving is sooo cute. the matching armguards, him giving the spoiled milk because he still wanted to share his experiences with shen zechuan, and the perfection of the jade of shen zechaun’s earring! oh, they’re so precious. then, how his falcon treats shen zechuan so softly… and how xiao chiye is haunted by the kick he gave him when they were enemies… and how he begged ji gang to take care of shen zechuan… and then you have shen zechuan only being able to sleep if xiao chiye is there, sending his clothing to comfort xiao chiye when they were parted, and not thinking of xiao chiye as second to anyone… beautiful.
i wish shen zechuan could shine a bit more in this volume like he usually does but obviously, he’s still so cool and conniving. xiao chiye was sooooo… so. i love him so much. that battle with the bandits and then huhelu literally made me scream, he’s sooo amazing. i love how they’re both so ambitious and greedy for more and to be more. love, love, love.
i’m becoming more unexpectedly attached to the side characters as i read more volumes. i like the members of their side like ding tao or tantai hu… tell me why i was aghast when i thought tantai hu was going to die against huhelu, so unexpected. also, somehow cared about and liked hai lingyi? i’m a little intrigued by li jianting cause hm, female emperor. i’m also interested in yao wenyu now, that ending really made me very curious about him. but, i’m dubious about the relationship between him and qiao tianya (who im not that compelled by). excited for the upcoming wlw relationship… in which volume will i finally see that. also, that unexpected old man yaoi between luo mu and kong ling moved me so much. that made me so bittersweet.
generally, excited to see how the plot progresses. i’m a little scared about these troubles within the xiao clan, but i know they love each other so i don’t know what’s gonna happen there… so excited for xiao chiye to prove himself to the libel armoured cavalry though. the political plot and the war with the biansha tribes have me on edge. i really liked the illustrations in this volume, i feel like they really improved (that one with cezhou and then xiao chiye on demon mode, mmm…). the cover was lovely as well - the many crows signifying the sun and the actual sun so close to shen zechuan’s mouth when shen zechuan considers xiao chiye the sun is so!! i need the next volume right now, please.
1.
skin damp from his bath, xiao chiye walked out and crouched nimbly behind shen zechuan as he dried his hair. hand still tugging at the branch of jasmine, shen zechuan looked back. xiao chiye dipped his head and kissed him. the setting sun was a burnished gold, and the world was silent and still; even the wind considerately left the courtyard to the two of them.
turning, shen zechuan pounced on xiao chiye, knocking him to the ground. leaning back against the door frame, xiao chiye hugged him tightly and pressed the tip of his nose to shen zechuan's check, saying fiercely, "you're pressing against my wounded heart." shen zechuan threw the pieces of crumpled orange jasmine into xiao chiye's pocket and said, "let me feel it."
xiao chiye did not. he grabbed hold of shen zechuan's wrists and pulled him closer. he was strong and fit, and it didn't strain him in the slightest to bear shen zechuan's weight. even the way he sat was carefree and unrestrained, one foot propped on his knee. the two of them sat with their arms around each other as dusk turned to night.
2.
as his horse broke into a gallop, he heard the sound of frantic hoofbeats flanking him. snowcrest had charged to the head of the group. to huhelu's surprise, the horse quickly overtook his swift pony. glancing over, a sudden and visceral terror struck his heart-he almost thought xiao fangxu himself was at his shoulder. but xiao chiye was even taller than his father. as the two sped through the night, huhelu got a clear look at a pair of eyes completely unlike xiao fangxu's, brimming with a greed so insatiable it shook him to the core.
huhelu felt the hair on his neck rise. he understood from that gaze that there would be no escape for him. sharp fangs were pressing in, inches away.
3.
he held up the letter, letting his eyes linger on each word: it's been too many days since we parted. i know you must miss me, so i've sent a small token to offer you comfort. touch it as if you touched me.
xiao chiye stared at that line of text and read it once more. touch it as if you touched me.
his throat felt dry, but laughter bubbled up inexplicably, and his gaze grew fierce.
4.
xiao fangxu paused; his gaze was deep. "the libei armored cavary is in urgent need of a new commander. this person must be unlike the rest of us — our polar opposite, even. he must tear off the layer of scholarly elegance that jiming has established. he must be avaricious and savage. he has to make the libei armored cavalry ravenous; he must be the wolf that leads the hunt."
5.
why didn't i marry?
kong ling repeated the words to himself in silence and slowly started laughing. he was already an old man, yet at this moment, he gave off the same aura of gentleness and composure he had possessed in his youth. there were still will and spirit in those eyes, even if they were no longer so bright as they had once been. clutching the packet of pastries, he said, "i should go."
the wind skated over the blades of grass. kong ling turned without waiting for luo mu's reply.
luo mu stood and watched kong ling's sleeves flutter amid the breeze. his throat tightened. he couldn't help taking a step after him, nor reaching out with his hand. the dusting of white in kong ling's hair seemed to disperse in the wind, covered by the dancing leaves swirling past. dazed, luo mu felt he was seeing through time, to a moment many years ago.
kong ling had missed a great number of things in his life, but not because he didn't fight for them. he had once tossed and turned in bed over an invitation, yet all that had greeted him after pacing to and fro as he waited in the school courtyard was a downpour summer rain. he’d waited in the rain until his eyes were wet. after that, he’d traveled far from home and settled in a distant land.
luo mengzheng was a fickle man.
that day in the rain, kong chengfeng had come to understand this many years later, he waited again, yet all he had to show for this endeavor was a bloodstained hem.
both times, luo mu did not come. and after today, kong ling and luo mu would never cross paths again.
beautiful like always. HAUNTED by the last quote.
June 1, 2025
A game of chess and the pieces are grain, land, political positions, and military troops. Varys and Littlefinger would fit right in with their “I did what I did for the good of the realm” and “Chaos isn’t a pit. Chaos is a ladder” scene in Game of Thrones. It’s always about who sits on the throne and the path to get there. This volume is full of politics and scheming but also plenty of sweet intimate Cezhou moments. I love the fierce possessiveness and absolute trust and devotion between them. Hearing SZ praise and compliment XC to others just makes my heart so happy. And the illustrations are 🔥
Loved Qiao Tianya and Ding Tao so much in this volume 🥰
Don’t be intimidated by the politics and crazy amount of characters in play. Keep that map & glossary close. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main players and locations in this volume (no spoilers):
In Qudu
Court Officials/Ministers: Hai Liangyi (Grand Secretariat), Cen Yu (Surveillence bureau), Kong Qiu (Minister of Justice), Han Cheng (EUG), Xue Xiozhuo
Scholars and Imperial Academy Students: Yao Wenyu (I love him so much)
Eight Great Noble Clans: Wei, Yao, Hua, Xi, Pan, Xue, Han, and Fei
In Cizhou in Zhongbo(or trying to get there after leaving Qudu)
Shen Zechuan
Zhou Gui- prefect
Kong Ling- advisory to ZG
Qiao Tianya (former EUG)- love him
Ding Tao-cutie pie young guard
Ji Gang- SZ “dad”, former EUG
Fei Sheng (former EUG)
Yu Xiaozai- Surveillance Bureau
Han Jin (Eight Great Battalion commander in prison as a hostage after trying to arrest XC)
Xiao Chiye’s crew
Imperial Army
Chen Yang- XC second
Gu Jin- guard (back and forth with SZ)
Tantai Hu- Imperial Army
Meng & Snowcrest
In Juexi
Ge Qinging (EUG)
In Libei
Xiao Fengxu-XC dad
Zuo Qianqiu- XC shifu and one of the four great generals
Xiao Jiming- XC brother
Zhao Hui- XJ’s second
Guo Weili- asshole commander
Wu Ziyu
In Qidong
Qi Zhiyun- LOVE HER 1 of the 4 Great Generals
Lu Guangbai (Bianjun Commandery)- LOVE HIM 1 of the 4 Great Generals
Bandits- all throughout Zhongbo
Lei Jingzhe (Mt. Luo)
Li Xiong- baby bear
Ding Niu- idiot
Cai Yu (Chazhou)- controls Chazou
Biansha
Amur- leader
Biansha Horsemen
Huhelu-great general
Chazou
Luo Mu, the prefect
Cai Yu- bandit
Also,
“WHILE BORDER CAMP was under attack, Shen Zechuan was taking a nap.” 😂😂😂
“It’s hard for Master to fall asleep without the marquis here,” Qiao Tianya said in a hushed tone, “and his sleep is fitful.
“He kissed Shen Zechuan hard, as if with that kiss, he could convey all the love in his heart he could never express with words alone.”
Loved Qiao Tianya and Ding Tao so much in this volume 🥰
Don’t be intimidated by the politics and crazy amount of characters in play. Keep that map & glossary close. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main players and locations in this volume (no spoilers):
In Qudu
Court Officials/Ministers: Hai Liangyi (Grand Secretariat), Cen Yu (Surveillence bureau), Kong Qiu (Minister of Justice), Han Cheng (EUG), Xue Xiozhuo
Scholars and Imperial Academy Students: Yao Wenyu (I love him so much)
Eight Great Noble Clans: Wei, Yao, Hua, Xi, Pan, Xue, Han, and Fei
In Cizhou in Zhongbo(or trying to get there after leaving Qudu)
Shen Zechuan
Zhou Gui- prefect
Kong Ling- advisory to ZG
Qiao Tianya (former EUG)- love him
Ding Tao-cutie pie young guard
Ji Gang- SZ “dad”, former EUG
Fei Sheng (former EUG)
Yu Xiaozai- Surveillance Bureau
Han Jin (Eight Great Battalion commander in prison as a hostage after trying to arrest XC)
Xiao Chiye’s crew
Imperial Army
Chen Yang- XC second
Gu Jin- guard (back and forth with SZ)
Tantai Hu- Imperial Army
Meng & Snowcrest
In Juexi
Ge Qinging (EUG)
In Libei
Xiao Fengxu-XC dad
Zuo Qianqiu- XC shifu and one of the four great generals
Xiao Jiming- XC brother
Zhao Hui- XJ’s second
Guo Weili- asshole commander
Wu Ziyu
In Qidong
Qi Zhiyun- LOVE HER 1 of the 4 Great Generals
Lu Guangbai (Bianjun Commandery)- LOVE HIM 1 of the 4 Great Generals
Bandits- all throughout Zhongbo
Lei Jingzhe (Mt. Luo)
Li Xiong- baby bear
Ding Niu- idiot
Cai Yu (Chazhou)- controls Chazou
Biansha
Amur- leader
Biansha Horsemen
Huhelu-great general
Chazou
Luo Mu, the prefect
Cai Yu- bandit
Also,
“WHILE BORDER CAMP was under attack, Shen Zechuan was taking a nap.” 😂😂😂
“It’s hard for Master to fall asleep without the marquis here,” Qiao Tianya said in a hushed tone, “and his sleep is fitful.
“He kissed Shen Zechuan hard, as if with that kiss, he could convey all the love in his heart he could never express with words alone.”
May 29, 2025
5/5☆
“He held up the letter, letting his eyes linger on each word:
It’s been too many days since we parted. I know you must miss me, so I’ve sent a small token to offer you comfort. Touch it as if you touched me.
A cold pillow makes for difficult nights. When will you return to our bed? A good night’s sleep is only possible with me in your arms.”
“He held up the letter, letting his eyes linger on each word:
It’s been too many days since we parted. I know you must miss me, so I’ve sent a small token to offer you comfort. Touch it as if you touched me.
A cold pillow makes for difficult nights. When will you return to our bed? A good night’s sleep is only possible with me in your arms.”
July 4, 2025
Power struggle and domesticity go hand in hand in this fourth volume of “Ballad of Sword and Wine” by Tang Jiu Qing. Upon the backdrop of Shen Zechuan fighting for a foothold in Cizhou and Xiao Chiye trying to prove his worth in Libei, this volume is infused with a gentleness in their relationship that is now open for all to see. Although frequently separated by distance, they live as a couple when they meet up with no attempt to hide the true nature of their relationship.
The book is peppered with sincere declarations of love. The first time Xiao Chiye simply says, “I love you” (p. 100), Shen Zechuan is dumbstruck. No superfluous words needed and they confirm their bond with kisses. Later on, Xiao Chiye repeats this simple phrase, because “he seemed to have fallen in love with such whisperings lately” (p. 167). This insight is especially touching since Xiao Chiye is the more martial of the two, so it runs counter to the stereotype that masculine men are at a loss for words. This duality is one of many reasons why the danmei genre works so well; it undercuts the stereotype of the taciturn man who is unable to express his feelings verbally and replaces it with a combination of military prowess and emotional intelligence.
Throughout the book the main couple find touching ways of expressing their love for each other. Xiao Chiye wipes the mud off his falcon´s claws so they will not track mud all over Shen Zechuan´s clothes. He also sends tea and milk across great distances as a gift for Shen Zechuan, because he was enjoying milk tea and wanted to share. When it arrived, then milk had gone off, but Shen Zechuan understands the significance of the gift and returns the gesture with a letter filled with orange jasmine blossoms. The flowers are squashed by the journey, but Chiye kicks everyone out of the tent so he can luxuriate in the romantic sensation of the gift and short letter. Their love is not restricted to grand gestures, but is frequently expressed in gifts such as a fan, an earring or simply by Shen Zechuan teasing that, “if you suffocate me, you´ll be murdering your own husband” (p. 165) when he is snuggling into Xiao Chiye´s embrace.
The jade earring that Xiao Chiye has gifted Shen Zechuan has taken on a much greater significance. When it was given, it gave them both pleasure inside and outside the bedroom. Xiao Chiye liked to play with it in intimate scenes but also rather liked the way it looked on Shen Zechuan on a purely aesthetic level. The jewel was also a way in which to mark his territory as well as his devotion, because he had ground the jade himself. Shen Zechuan´s willingness to wear it also signifies an acceptance of their relationship. However, in this volume it has become clear that jade earrings foreshadow something very important although it is entirely ambiguous what that may be. Li Xiong, who arrives at the manor, notices that Shen Zechuan is wearing a jade earring and clocks that it has a meaning but is unable to put his finger on why it is significant. This indicates that a jade earring has significance beyond a visualization of the bond between the main couple. Perhaps it is tied to the remark that is dropped in at the very end of the book when Yan Wenyu says to Shen Zechuan, “Anyone in the world can sit on the throne. The Li Clan could. So why not you, Shen Zechuan?” (p. 388).
The plot interweaves the struggle for political power across the empire with romance, but also shows how friendships and family relationships affect the outcome of politics. Qudu now has a girl as emperor, resulting in unrest among the many officials, some of whom can and cannot accept a woman on the throne. Libei is riddled with power struggles within Xiao Chiye´s own family and Shen Zechuan is in Cizhou outwitting bandits who have been embezzling money and grain. All of these strands weave together and create a well-balanced plot. It will be interesting to see what is in store for Xiao Chiye, Shen Zechuan and the entire empire …
The book is peppered with sincere declarations of love. The first time Xiao Chiye simply says, “I love you” (p. 100), Shen Zechuan is dumbstruck. No superfluous words needed and they confirm their bond with kisses. Later on, Xiao Chiye repeats this simple phrase, because “he seemed to have fallen in love with such whisperings lately” (p. 167). This insight is especially touching since Xiao Chiye is the more martial of the two, so it runs counter to the stereotype that masculine men are at a loss for words. This duality is one of many reasons why the danmei genre works so well; it undercuts the stereotype of the taciturn man who is unable to express his feelings verbally and replaces it with a combination of military prowess and emotional intelligence.
Throughout the book the main couple find touching ways of expressing their love for each other. Xiao Chiye wipes the mud off his falcon´s claws so they will not track mud all over Shen Zechuan´s clothes. He also sends tea and milk across great distances as a gift for Shen Zechuan, because he was enjoying milk tea and wanted to share. When it arrived, then milk had gone off, but Shen Zechuan understands the significance of the gift and returns the gesture with a letter filled with orange jasmine blossoms. The flowers are squashed by the journey, but Chiye kicks everyone out of the tent so he can luxuriate in the romantic sensation of the gift and short letter. Their love is not restricted to grand gestures, but is frequently expressed in gifts such as a fan, an earring or simply by Shen Zechuan teasing that, “if you suffocate me, you´ll be murdering your own husband” (p. 165) when he is snuggling into Xiao Chiye´s embrace.
The jade earring that Xiao Chiye has gifted Shen Zechuan has taken on a much greater significance. When it was given, it gave them both pleasure inside and outside the bedroom. Xiao Chiye liked to play with it in intimate scenes but also rather liked the way it looked on Shen Zechuan on a purely aesthetic level. The jewel was also a way in which to mark his territory as well as his devotion, because he had ground the jade himself. Shen Zechuan´s willingness to wear it also signifies an acceptance of their relationship. However, in this volume it has become clear that jade earrings foreshadow something very important although it is entirely ambiguous what that may be. Li Xiong, who arrives at the manor, notices that Shen Zechuan is wearing a jade earring and clocks that it has a meaning but is unable to put his finger on why it is significant. This indicates that a jade earring has significance beyond a visualization of the bond between the main couple. Perhaps it is tied to the remark that is dropped in at the very end of the book when Yan Wenyu says to Shen Zechuan, “Anyone in the world can sit on the throne. The Li Clan could. So why not you, Shen Zechuan?” (p. 388).
The plot interweaves the struggle for political power across the empire with romance, but also shows how friendships and family relationships affect the outcome of politics. Qudu now has a girl as emperor, resulting in unrest among the many officials, some of whom can and cannot accept a woman on the throne. Libei is riddled with power struggles within Xiao Chiye´s own family and Shen Zechuan is in Cizhou outwitting bandits who have been embezzling money and grain. All of these strands weave together and create a well-balanced plot. It will be interesting to see what is in store for Xiao Chiye, Shen Zechuan and the entire empire …
November 13, 2025
a DAMN FINE final illustration
November 3, 2025
"My encounter with Lanzhou was no accident. He was the last line of defense that kept me from reaching my breaking point, as well as the indulgence and freedom I've regained."
Ballad of Sword and Wine, Vol. 4 is a powerhouse of political strategy, quiet devastation, and sharp emotional undercurrents. The intimacy is written with striking elegance—never explicit, but you feel every beat of it. The author doesn’t rely on graphic detail to make those moments land. You just know. And when it happens, it feels earned. Every glance, every word, every silence hits with double the weight because the writing trusts the reader to feel the tension without spelling it out.
I’ll admit, this took me longer to finish than expected—not because I didn’t like it, but because the political content is thick. My brain kept tapping out when the intrigue reached peak complexity. And yet, I still enjoyed the ride. I’ve never considered myself someone who likes politics, but somehow most of my top danmei favorites lean heavy into it. This volume pushed that line a little, and I needed a few mental breaks, but even at its most dense, I was still pulled back by the characters and the sheer control in the writing.
The military planning and regional power plays are genuinely fascinating. It’s the kind of worldbuilding that makes you care about supply routes and bureaucratic reshuffles just as much as you care about romance. My copy arrived late thanks to a local order mishap, but once it did, I didn’t want to put it down. Even when it slowed me down, I still didn’t want to look away.
Date Read: 2025.07.06
Ballad of Sword and Wine, Vol. 4 is a powerhouse of political strategy, quiet devastation, and sharp emotional undercurrents. The intimacy is written with striking elegance—never explicit, but you feel every beat of it. The author doesn’t rely on graphic detail to make those moments land. You just know. And when it happens, it feels earned. Every glance, every word, every silence hits with double the weight because the writing trusts the reader to feel the tension without spelling it out.
I’ll admit, this took me longer to finish than expected—not because I didn’t like it, but because the political content is thick. My brain kept tapping out when the intrigue reached peak complexity. And yet, I still enjoyed the ride. I’ve never considered myself someone who likes politics, but somehow most of my top danmei favorites lean heavy into it. This volume pushed that line a little, and I needed a few mental breaks, but even at its most dense, I was still pulled back by the characters and the sheer control in the writing.
The military planning and regional power plays are genuinely fascinating. It’s the kind of worldbuilding that makes you care about supply routes and bureaucratic reshuffles just as much as you care about romance. My copy arrived late thanks to a local order mishap, but once it did, I didn’t want to put it down. Even when it slowed me down, I still didn’t want to look away.
Date Read: 2025.07.06
June 2, 2025
I went through all of the emotions while reading this volume. It was hard to take breaks from reading, and is why I ended up finishing it in a day. Now I have to sit with my thoughts until the next volume releases.
“The heavy storm they had weathered together had scoured that turbulent sea of love and hate until only a crystal-clear lake remained. Xiao Chiye retracted his talons, bowing his head in submission before the word love.”
This scene nearly caused me to throw my phone across the room. And then there was the straightforward “I love you.” I was just as stunned as Shen Lanzhou. Their relationship makes me kick my feet like I’m a high schooler with a crush again.
Can we please talk about how Xiao Chiye decapitated that guy? As the guy was riding his horse? Insane. It reminded me of Shen Lanzhou in the last volume, except Xiao Chiye didn’t go and step on this guy’s head. No, he held the head as was clearing judging it. What a power couple Shen Lanzhou and Xiao Chiye are.
I’m not sure if this is anything major or will be discussed ever again but I have a feeling that the grandson of the Shao clan is still alive and may possibly show up at some point, if he isn’t already present under a different name. I don’t see why it would be necessary to mention that most, not all, of the kids who end up in Lei Changming’s hands die if the Shao clan’s grandson isn’t dead. Maybe I’m reading too much into this since Lei Changming bothered me so much.
I now dread that I have to wait for the next volume. What will I do without Cezhou? What will I do without reading qjj everyday like I have been for the last three days?
“The heavy storm they had weathered together had scoured that turbulent sea of love and hate until only a crystal-clear lake remained. Xiao Chiye retracted his talons, bowing his head in submission before the word love.”
This scene nearly caused me to throw my phone across the room. And then there was the straightforward “I love you.” I was just as stunned as Shen Lanzhou. Their relationship makes me kick my feet like I’m a high schooler with a crush again.
Can we please talk about how Xiao Chiye decapitated that guy? As the guy was riding his horse? Insane. It reminded me of Shen Lanzhou in the last volume, except Xiao Chiye didn’t go and step on this guy’s head. No, he held the head as was clearing judging it. What a power couple Shen Lanzhou and Xiao Chiye are.
I’m not sure if this is anything major or will be discussed ever again but I have a feeling that the grandson of the Shao clan is still alive and may possibly show up at some point, if he isn’t already present under a different name. I don’t see why it would be necessary to mention that most, not all, of the kids who end up in Lei Changming’s hands die if the Shao clan’s grandson isn’t dead. Maybe I’m reading too much into this since Lei Changming bothered me so much.
I now dread that I have to wait for the next volume. What will I do without Cezhou? What will I do without reading qjj everyday like I have been for the last three days?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2025
4,5 'Dragon among fish' stars
I had a feeling there's even more politics in this vol then in previous ones, but I guess it's only that I wasn't interested in Qudu politics anymore, and some scenes kind of dragged because of that. There's not a single person left in Qudu that I care about, so I was not invested in new emperor. However, I'm always on board when Shen Zechuan is scheming.
Gif by zhouyes
His brain is truly so sexy! I have to admit, I was almost dreaming that grain prices but whatever he was doing with that, it was probably brilliant. I wonder when will more people start noticing they have a dragon aiming for the sky among them.
Meanwhile, we have Xiao Chiye fighting different battles. Libei wolf pup has finally returned to his natural environment, however things there are not as simple as he might have thought. It will take much more effort to persuade his father to grant him welcome and recogniton, and maybe give him Libei Armored Cavalry as a bonus, heh
I understand why his father is hesitant to welcome him back - after all Xiao Chiye made a big mess out of his escape from Qudu. He hadn't implicated only himself but Xiao family as well, and probably whole Libei too. But I have faith in him that he will prove his worth. Especially, if he will continue to kill Libei's enemies in such a way.
Gif by heymeowmao
Cezhou were definitely shining individually in this volume. They are both powerfull in charachter, so it was interesting to read their solo adventures. However, this time they were apart too much for my taste but I think their moments together were that much sweeter because of that.
They keep demonstrating what a power couple they are. Also, I love to watch their relationship grow. Yes, they got together in vol 1 but getting together is not the last stage, it's actually just the beginning of a true relationship. There are so many things they have yet to experience with each other. For instance, I think this is the longest they were separated since getting together. And they are not taking it well 🥹🥹
Fanart by miyu's sketchdump
Of course, they are as horny as usual but, honestly, that's part of their charm. I mean, just look at them, they are very adorably emotional even when horny, lol. 唐酒卿 really knows how to write intimate connection with such raw feelings and at the same time sounds poetic as well. 10/10!
I really loved this particular scene but I was shocked to learn that apparently it was shortened for 7S edition. Is this true??? The part in [] is supposed to be from fan translation and it's so good! Why was it kicked out? Also, I know 7S MDZS translation is horrible with missing paragraphs and stuff but now I'm wondering if all other translations are also like that??? Otherwise, I really like this translation so far (except for not mentioning Xiao Chiye's braids at all).
Fanart by Zolaida
Anyway, getting back to fangirl over cezhou and their lovey dovey scenes! 😍🥰 Xiao Chiye being so in love that he's confessing his feelings to Lanzhou any chance he gets. And his cute, little gestures like sending Lanzhou Libei milk, because obviously it's better than non-Libei milk. He's such a big softie. And he constantly worries about Shen Zechuan - if he eats and sleeps enough, if he's healthy and alright, which is valid because, seriously SZC has a long record of very bad decisions about his well-being. And on the other hand, we have Lanzhou, who is still a little bit reserved with his affection but only on the outside. He might has yet to say ILY back to Ce'an but his actions speak for themselves. Calling himself Xiao Chiye's husband, not sleeping well because he's not sleeping in Ce'an's arms, not wanting to worry XC about his injuries. In front of others, he's indifferent and untouchable, and only with Ce'an he lets himself be vulnerable. To put so much trust into the hands of someone, who wanted you dead once - if that's not love, then I don't know what it is.
Fanart by KilluHime
As always, I can't wait for the next vol!! And please, pleasew, let cezhou spent more time together 💖💖
将进酒 Qiāng Jìn Jiǔ
4,5 'Enemies to and lovers' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
5 'Together in sickness and in health' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4,5 'Ce'an and Lanzhou being murderous together' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
4,5 'Dragon among fish' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
tbr
"[...] Keeping the peace in one small corner of the world is easy; even someone of my caliber can do it. But stabilizing our great land of thousand miles across requires the talent of a pillar of the state. Fish may be confined to ponds, but dragons look toward the sky - the vice commander is no mere fish, I dare not be so presumptous as to claim a connection with such a man."
I had a feeling there's even more politics in this vol then in previous ones, but I guess it's only that I wasn't interested in Qudu politics anymore, and some scenes kind of dragged because of that. There's not a single person left in Qudu that I care about, so I was not invested in new emperor. However, I'm always on board when Shen Zechuan is scheming.
Gif by zhouyes
His brain is truly so sexy! I have to admit, I was almost dreaming that grain prices but whatever he was doing with that, it was probably brilliant. I wonder when will more people start noticing they have a dragon aiming for the sky among them.
He said slowly and deliberately: "Anyone in the world can sit on the throne. The Li Clan could. So why not you, Shen Zechuan?"
Shen Zechuan held his folded fan before him and replied coldly, "My aspirations lie elsewhere."
"You can't fool me," Yao Wenyu said, voice low. "You are walking this path already."
Meanwhile, we have Xiao Chiye fighting different battles. Libei wolf pup has finally returned to his natural environment, however things there are not as simple as he might have thought. It will take much more effort to persuade his father to grant him welcome and recogniton, and maybe give him Libei Armored Cavalry as a bonus, heh
"Our opponents are all hardened veterans who have seen countless battles - but no battle in this world is fated to be lost before it's begun. All those impregnable defences and impenetrable encirclements are only a facade. I'm going back, and I want to go back to a Libei Armored Cavalary that truly belongs to me."
I understand why his father is hesitant to welcome him back - after all Xiao Chiye made a big mess out of his escape from Qudu. He hadn't implicated only himself but Xiao family as well, and probably whole Libei too. But I have faith in him that he will prove his worth. Especially, if he will continue to kill Libei's enemies in such a way.
Gif by heymeowmao
Xiao Chiye charged his way through the Biansha Horsemen's formation. With every slash, drops of bloos flew from Wolfsfang, the spatters of warm blood staining his cheeks. He pulled back on the reins and wiped blood off with his thumb, careful not to stain his ring.
[]'s horse was still running when the headless body on its back slid off and tumbled to the dirt before the camp, slowly watering the grass with its master's blood.
Cezhou were definitely shining individually in this volume. They are both powerfull in charachter, so it was interesting to read their solo adventures. However, this time they were apart too much for my taste but I think their moments together were that much sweeter because of that.
Xiao Chiye nuzzled against Shen Zechuan's cheek from behind until Shen Zechuan's cheeks grew warm. Shen Zechuan had no idea what was up with Xiao Chiye. The man never said a word as he felt Shen Zechuan up, holding him in his arms and clinging to him like glue. Just like that, Shen Zechuan sat in Xiao Chiye's embrace [...]
Xiao Chiye looked at Shen Zechuan for a moment, then ducked his head, burying his face in the crook of Shen Zechuan's neck. [...]
Shen Zechuan tugged his hand gently free and laced his fingers with Xiao Chiye's, bumping his ear gently against Xiao Chiye's heavy head on his shoulder. "Have you fallen asleep?"
When Xiao Chiye looked up, his voice was hoarse. "Oh, how I love."
They keep demonstrating what a power couple they are. Also, I love to watch their relationship grow. Yes, they got together in vol 1 but getting together is not the last stage, it's actually just the beginning of a true relationship. There are so many things they have yet to experience with each other. For instance, I think this is the longest they were separated since getting together. And they are not taking it well 🥹🥹
Xiao Chiye had missed Shen Zechuan too much; every inch of him, he longed for with deep urgency. [...] Absence, it was said, made the heart fonder. In the near future, there would be countless such absences. For now, Xiao Chiye wanted to consume every single moment they had alone together. He wanted to invade Shen Zechuan, to have him every possible way and drive deep into him again and again, leaving his own scent behind while Shen Zechuan's enveloped him completely.
[But of them had to have the same scent.
This was a childlish obsession of the wolf pup. It was as if doing so would prove that they cold never be apart. Xiao Chiye pressed his cheek against Shen Zechuan's palm, sniffing his scent before the small furrow in his brows finally relaxed.
Xiao Chiye wanted to tell Shen Zechuan how much he truly loved him.]
Perhaps there were many ways to express love. But at this moment, they desired only the most intense.
Fanart by miyu's sketchdump
Of course, they are as horny as usual but, honestly, that's part of their charm. I mean, just look at them, they are very adorably emotional even when horny, lol. 唐酒卿 really knows how to write intimate connection with such raw feelings and at the same time sounds poetic as well. 10/10!
I really loved this particular scene but I was shocked to learn that apparently it was shortened for 7S edition. Is this true??? The part in [] is supposed to be from fan translation and it's so good! Why was it kicked out? Also, I know 7S MDZS translation is horrible with missing paragraphs and stuff but now I'm wondering if all other translations are also like that??? Otherwise, I really like this translation so far (except for not mentioning Xiao Chiye's braids at all).
"Even if I die, I'll die with you."
He pressed Shen Zechuan's face into the crook of his own neck. Shen Zechuan struggled, but he couldn't break free. He said in a muffled voice, "Xiao Er, if you suffocate me, you'll be murdering your own husband."
[...]
Xiao Chiye cupped Shen Zechuan's cheeks and raised his head to kiss him, yet just as their lips were about to touch, he stopped and said sternly, "Kiss me."
Shen Zechuan was trapped against Xiao Chiye's chest with his head tilted up. After enduring it for a moment, he said, "Let me up then."
"Nope," Xiao Chiye said. "Think of a way yourself."
Unable to strain up to reach him, Shen Zechuan pursed his lips, grabbed the front of Xiao Chiye's robes, and yanked him over, pecking him on the lips.
Fanart by Zolaida
He grabbed a lock of Xiao Chiye's hair and wound it tight around his fingers as they tensed and curled. The stars dazzled his eyes before scattering into pieces on the wind. He gazed up at Xiao Chiye, a little dizzy, feeling that this wolf pup was much fiercer than usual.
"Xiao Er..." Shen Zechuan dragged out the syllables.
Xiao Chiye bent down, enveloping him, blocking out the wind and stars. "I love you."
Anyway, getting back to fangirl over cezhou and their lovey dovey scenes! 😍🥰 Xiao Chiye being so in love that he's confessing his feelings to Lanzhou any chance he gets. And his cute, little gestures like sending Lanzhou Libei milk, because obviously it's better than non-Libei milk. He's such a big softie. And he constantly worries about Shen Zechuan - if he eats and sleeps enough, if he's healthy and alright, which is valid because, seriously SZC has a long record of very bad decisions about his well-being. And on the other hand, we have Lanzhou, who is still a little bit reserved with his affection but only on the outside. He might has yet to say ILY back to Ce'an but his actions speak for themselves. Calling himself Xiao Chiye's husband, not sleeping well because he's not sleeping in Ce'an's arms, not wanting to worry XC about his injuries. In front of others, he's indifferent and untouchable, and only with Ce'an he lets himself be vulnerable. To put so much trust into the hands of someone, who wanted you dead once - if that's not love, then I don't know what it is.
Fanart by KilluHime
Xiao Chiye laughed out loud - a short, sharp sound. He set his hand on the small of Shen Zechuan's back, pulling him so close Shen Zechuan was plastered against him in his embrace. There was no air between them as their lips met; Shen Zechuan kissed Xiao Chiye, who bit him in return.
As always, I can't wait for the next vol!! And please, pleasew, let cezhou spent more time together 💖💖
将进酒 Qiāng Jìn Jiǔ
4,5 'Enemies
5 'Together in sickness and in health' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4,5 'Ce'an and Lanzhou being murderous together' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
4,5 'Dragon among fish' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
tbr
May 31, 2025
5/5 ⭐
Shen Lanzhou u are both Princess Diana and a real baddie!!
Shen Lanzhou u are both Princess Diana and a real baddie!!
June 10, 2025
4.5 stars
This picks up right where the previous volume left off, with both leads set on accomplishing their own goals. Which they both do in their own ways. For Xiao Chiye, this means approaching everything head on with passion and maybe a little recklessness. Shen Zechuan's methods are more subtle this time around, but nonetheless provocative and brilliant.
This is a very plot heavy volume with the stage being set for what remains. Like the last volume, I did find myself making plenty of use of the provided map and character guide, both which helped a great deal.
It's the romance that holds me most captive though. While this volume may only have a few scenes where the two are physically together, those scenes are filled with intimacy of all kinds. We get the first love confession, lots of playfulness, some steam, and commitments to the future. Xiao Chiye is such an unabashed romantic, but honestly Shen Zechuan is too in his own way.
As always I'm eager for more, and am ready for plenty more intrigue and love.
This picks up right where the previous volume left off, with both leads set on accomplishing their own goals. Which they both do in their own ways. For Xiao Chiye, this means approaching everything head on with passion and maybe a little recklessness. Shen Zechuan's methods are more subtle this time around, but nonetheless provocative and brilliant.
This is a very plot heavy volume with the stage being set for what remains. Like the last volume, I did find myself making plenty of use of the provided map and character guide, both which helped a great deal.
It's the romance that holds me most captive though. While this volume may only have a few scenes where the two are physically together, those scenes are filled with intimacy of all kinds. We get the first love confession, lots of playfulness, some steam, and commitments to the future. Xiao Chiye is such an unabashed romantic, but honestly Shen Zechuan is too in his own way.
As always I'm eager for more, and am ready for plenty more intrigue and love.
June 7, 2025
Shen Zechuan held his folded fan before him and replied coldly, “My aspirations lie elsewhere.”
“You can’t fool me,” Yao Wenyu said, voice low. “You are walking this path already.”
even as someone reading it for the second time, i chomped this volume down.
the board has been set and the game is on!
“You can’t fool me,” Yao Wenyu said, voice low. “You are walking this path already.”
even as someone reading it for the second time, i chomped this volume down.
the board has been set and the game is on!
September 4, 2025
i absolutely loved it. im still struggling with understanding the politics but im doing my best so it took me waaay longer to finish it than id like TT i loved seeing the relationship between xiao chiye and shen zechuan progress even more, theyre so sweet and domestic i could cry!.!!..! and as much as i love them together, i also enjoyed seeing them shine individually! truly a power couple. im getting more attached to side characters too ….shivers…. i especially adore ding tao lol cant wait for the yuri next volume!!!!
May 29, 2025
“The heavy storm they had weathered together had scoured that turbulent sea of love and hate until only a crystal-clear lake remained. Xiao Chiye retracted his talons, bowing his head in submission before the word love.”
chi sono io se non una fervente amante dei Cezhou… la mia coppietta sposata per eccellenza🩷 comunque vabe questa storia davvero pazzesca più vado avanti e più mi prende I need more of it!! ammetto che tutte le parti che trattano di politica e affini riducono il mio cervello delle dimensioni di una nocciolina in poltiglia ma non importa I’m here for the homosexuals e per loro si fa questo ed altro!!🙏🏻
(Xiao Chiye che dice per la prima volta a Lanzhou “I love you” ha cambiato per sempre la traiettoria della mia vita questa scena vivrà per sempre rent free nella mia testa)
chi sono io se non una fervente amante dei Cezhou… la mia coppietta sposata per eccellenza🩷 comunque vabe questa storia davvero pazzesca più vado avanti e più mi prende I need more of it!! ammetto che tutte le parti che trattano di politica e affini riducono il mio cervello delle dimensioni di una nocciolina in poltiglia ma non importa I’m here for the homosexuals e per loro si fa questo ed altro!!🙏🏻
(Xiao Chiye che dice per la prima volta a Lanzhou “I love you” ha cambiato per sempre la traiettoria della mia vita questa scena vivrà per sempre rent free nella mia testa)
December 6, 2025
Best volume so far! Ugh Xiao Chiye and Shen Zechuan love each other so much. The country is in flames, but their love is self-assured.
September 1, 2025
xiao chiye forever haunted by the kick he gave shen zechuan when they were enemies....xiao chiye on his knees begging ji gang to look after shen zechuan while he's away....this is what i like to see!!!!!
the romance is top tier as always. xiao chiye and shen zechuan are both so ambitious and hungry for more and i just love seeing their determination in walking their own paths but also in being together and always supporting each other.
the grain politics and military tactics are quite intense in this volume. this is truly the grain economics yaoi i never knew i needed. i do think there were certain parts that dragged a bit, like the whole visit at chazhou, but i love seeing all the pieces being lined up for the future and i can't wait to see where the story goes from here.
the romance is top tier as always. xiao chiye and shen zechuan are both so ambitious and hungry for more and i just love seeing their determination in walking their own paths but also in being together and always supporting each other.
the grain politics and military tactics are quite intense in this volume. this is truly the grain economics yaoi i never knew i needed. i do think there were certain parts that dragged a bit, like the whole visit at chazhou, but i love seeing all the pieces being lined up for the future and i can't wait to see where the story goes from here.
June 3, 2025
"Mi encuentro con Lanzhou no se produjo por casualidad, él fue la última línea de defensa cuando estaba a punto de llegar a mi límite y perderlo. Él es también la indulgencia y la libertad que perdí y recuperé."
Estuve esperando tanto editar esta reseña. Hablar del Cezhou es todo lo que necesito.
Este volumen nos cuenta cómo Lanzhou y Ce'an empiezan a buscar su camino para algún día poder alcanzar ese nosotros que tanto anhelan. Siendo ahora traidores las cosas no iban a ser nada sencillas. A pesar de que lo que más desean es estar juntos, todavía tienen que solucionar varias pendientes en el camino. Xiao Chiye quiere crear su lugar en la Caballería Blindada de Libei, mientras que Shen Zechuan quiere restablecer Zhongbo. Creo que eso los convierte en una de las parejas más poderosas que he leído.
"Voy a volver, quiero una Caballería Blindada de Libei que realmente me pertenezca."
Shen Zechuan y Xiao Chiye no solo están peleando por un futuro juntos, sino que también están forjando sus propios reinos, porque si algo tienen estos dos hombres es una capacidad insana para la grandeza. No se trata solo de alcanzar un para siempre, sino de merecerse la felicidad después de haber atravesado el infierno.
Me mié con Xiao Chiye aquí, es que no puedo.
Este fue definitivamente mi volumen favorito. Me mostraron a un Xiao Chiye feroz, indomable, dispuesto a forjar su camino a pesar de todo. Y me mostraron también a un Shen Zechuan increíblemente capaz de poner el mundo de cabeza con solo abrir la boca. Por eso los amo a estos dos, son imparables. Y, Jesucristo de todo lo sagrado, qué maravilla la intriga en esta parte, sobre todo del lado de Xiao Chiye, los campamentos y las pistas del que será uno de los villanos más potentes de la historia. Y por fin, ¡por fin! nos están mostrando lo exquisitos que son todos estos personajes secundarios.
Y el siguiente volumen estará todavía más ufffff.
Estuve esperando tanto editar esta reseña. Hablar del Cezhou es todo lo que necesito.
Este volumen nos cuenta cómo Lanzhou y Ce'an empiezan a buscar su camino para algún día poder alcanzar ese nosotros que tanto anhelan. Siendo ahora traidores las cosas no iban a ser nada sencillas. A pesar de que lo que más desean es estar juntos, todavía tienen que solucionar varias pendientes en el camino. Xiao Chiye quiere crear su lugar en la Caballería Blindada de Libei, mientras que Shen Zechuan quiere restablecer Zhongbo. Creo que eso los convierte en una de las parejas más poderosas que he leído.
"Voy a volver, quiero una Caballería Blindada de Libei que realmente me pertenezca."
Shen Zechuan y Xiao Chiye no solo están peleando por un futuro juntos, sino que también están forjando sus propios reinos, porque si algo tienen estos dos hombres es una capacidad insana para la grandeza. No se trata solo de alcanzar un para siempre, sino de merecerse la felicidad después de haber atravesado el infierno.
Me mié con Xiao Chiye aquí, es que no puedo.
Este fue definitivamente mi volumen favorito. Me mostraron a un Xiao Chiye feroz, indomable, dispuesto a forjar su camino a pesar de todo. Y me mostraron también a un Shen Zechuan increíblemente capaz de poner el mundo de cabeza con solo abrir la boca. Por eso los amo a estos dos, son imparables. Y, Jesucristo de todo lo sagrado, qué maravilla la intriga en esta parte, sobre todo del lado de Xiao Chiye, los campamentos y las pistas del que será uno de los villanos más potentes de la historia. Y por fin, ¡por fin! nos están mostrando lo exquisitos que son todos estos personajes secundarios.
Y el siguiente volumen estará todavía más ufffff.
June 12, 2025
Squealing, twirling my hair, kicking my feet, etc.
July 16, 2025
Shen Zechuan’s intentions for Qudu have finally been revealed. He’s about to wreak havoc.
June 26, 2025
4.5
An almost 2m tall man fighting in a war and then melting over his lover's letter in his tent will always be my favourite part of this book
the politics and characters are still a bit confusing, but the action scenes are chef's kiss
An almost 2m tall man fighting in a war and then melting over his lover's letter in his tent will always be my favourite part of this book
the politics and characters are still a bit confusing, but the action scenes are chef's kiss
June 7, 2025
If I never have to hear about grain prices again it'll be too soon
September 8, 2025
Forever obsessed with the political intrigue and the interactions between Ce'an and Lanzhou.
June 14, 2025
Cada día más enamorada del danmei y con menos esperanzas en los libros occidentales tradicionales (todos me parecen iguales).
Shen Zechuan y Xiao Chiye son personajes profundos, cada uno con sus problemas y desarrollos. Y en este volumen vemos cómo sus caminos tienen que separarse. Uno con sus palabras conseguirá recuperar la reputación que su padre arruinó y el otro tratará de ganar una guerra mientras encuentra su lugar en su familia.
Son tan distintos y lo mejor es que EXISTEN SIN EL OTRO. El mayor problema de la narrativa actual es que se centra demasiado en el amor romántico y el resto de la trama es prácticamente inexistente. El entorno donde se desarrolle la historia o lo que ocurra alrededor de la pareja principal es tan poco importante que bien podrían estar en un parque dando pan a las palomas y sería lo mismo.
Por eso me está gustando tanto esta novela (y el danmei en general). Hay relaciones amorosas de todo tipo, pero sobre todo trata de una guerra interna contigo mismo, la búsqueda de identidad fuera de tus lazos de sangre y cómo la gente hace cualquier cosa por llegar al poder.
Ya podrían aprender muchos autores 'de renombre' de estos autores asiáticos.
PD: Siguiente volumen tiene lesbianas
Shen Zechuan y Xiao Chiye son personajes profundos, cada uno con sus problemas y desarrollos. Y en este volumen vemos cómo sus caminos tienen que separarse. Uno con sus palabras conseguirá recuperar la reputación que su padre arruinó y el otro tratará de ganar una guerra mientras encuentra su lugar en su familia.
Son tan distintos y lo mejor es que EXISTEN SIN EL OTRO. El mayor problema de la narrativa actual es que se centra demasiado en el amor romántico y el resto de la trama es prácticamente inexistente. El entorno donde se desarrolle la historia o lo que ocurra alrededor de la pareja principal es tan poco importante que bien podrían estar en un parque dando pan a las palomas y sería lo mismo.
Por eso me está gustando tanto esta novela (y el danmei en general). Hay relaciones amorosas de todo tipo, pero sobre todo trata de una guerra interna contigo mismo, la búsqueda de identidad fuera de tus lazos de sangre y cómo la gente hace cualquier cosa por llegar al poder.
Ya podrían aprender muchos autores 'de renombre' de estos autores asiáticos.
PD: Siguiente volumen tiene lesbianas
June 7, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up for Goodreads
Literally the only thing going through my head while reading this book was that scene in mulan where mushu says “LOOK YOU GET PORRIDGE”
Also it took me ALL FOUR BOOKS to realize the “grain” that they are having issues with is, in fact, rice and not wheat. Which makes so much more sense, but now I feel stupid lol
Literally the only thing going through my head while reading this book was that scene in mulan where mushu says “LOOK YOU GET PORRIDGE”
Also it took me ALL FOUR BOOKS to realize the “grain” that they are having issues with is, in fact, rice and not wheat. Which makes so much more sense, but now I feel stupid lol
August 3, 2025
4.5 stars
Still enormously enjoying this series. I docked half a star only because there is much less court intrigue now that they left the capital. Still, there is plenty of scheming and manipulating--our Lanzhou hasn't changed that much. I've also missed the snarky banter between the two as they've progressed to devoted husbands, but I do like the us-against-the-world, ride or die dynamic as well, and I'm weak for Ce'an looking after Lanzhou.
Still enormously enjoying this series. I docked half a star only because there is much less court intrigue now that they left the capital. Still, there is plenty of scheming and manipulating--our Lanzhou hasn't changed that much. I've also missed the snarky banter between the two as they've progressed to devoted husbands, but I do like the us-against-the-world, ride or die dynamic as well, and I'm weak for Ce'an looking after Lanzhou.
August 20, 2025
Wasn't the most exciting volume. I think we've got some web novel typical editing problems: some stuff def would be cut if it was traditional publishing. I was most exited for Libei, but XCY got fucked over. Still there were some interesting moments and dynamics. I'm holding my breath for Ji Gang to understand why he's suspicious 😂
August 16, 2025
cada libro me deja más asombrada de la calidad de la historia. todos los detalles tienen una razón y tienen un porqué. los personajes son tan brutalmente humanos y el amor entre esos dos se siente tan real♡ ya quiero que salga el tomo 5
September 4, 2025
plan na 10 kroków wprzód... that's my power couple
September 8, 2025
holy shit not only did i get sz and xc back, they also gifted me doomed old man yaoi and the blessing which is YAO WENYU #thankyougodforthisgift
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