Art Thou Ailing? Vol. 1

Art Thou Ailing? #1

by Ru Shi Wo Wen, Xuannie (Translator)

In the empire of Great Xia, civility is a mask, courtesy a weapon—and love, perhaps, the most dangerous of all.

Chu Mingyun, Grand Commandant and master of his own ambition, rules half the capital with a fan in hand and a smirk that rarely fades. Known for his cunning, feared for his temper, and trailed by shadows both loyal and lethal, he moves through the imperial court like a chessmaster plotting his endgame.

Su Shiyu, Grand Secretary and paragon of virtue, is his equal in every way—measured, refined, and maddeningly unreadable. His name alone is enough to silence a room, and his smile, courteous though it may be, conceals more than it reveals.

A minister’s suicide. A cryptic message. A rumour that shakes the court to its foundations. As secrets brew beneath silken robes and ceremonial smiles, Chu launches a quiet campaign of subterfuge… and seduction. But behind Su’s mild gaze may lie a sharper mind than anyone has dared to suspect.

Every glance is a gambit, every compliment a calculated move—and in the end, only one question remains:

Who’s playing whom?

Genres: Historical Fiction, LGBT, Romance, M M Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Queer, Historical

386 pages, Paperback

Published January 5, 2026

About the author

Associated Names:
* 如似我闻 (Chinese)
* Ru Shi Wo Wen (English)
* หรูซื่อหว่อเหวิน (Thai)

Reviews

[Alexia · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love Peerless as much as I do, then you'll find this danmei an enjoyable read. It is a somewhat simplified version of Peerless, and I mean that as a compliment.

The political intrigue in this story isn't as intricate or intense as in Peerless, and the romantic elements are more prominent, making the overall tone lighter yet still engaging.

The plot begins with a death, and from there, a series of additional deaths and mysteries unfold, gradually deepening the story's complexity.

Chu Mingyun is a remarkably shameless protagonist, and the pearls of wisdom (or perhaps nonsense) that spill from his mouth never fail to make me laugh. Everyone fears him because he is a powerful general with immense power, yet they still find the time to admire his striking beauty.

Su Shiyu tends to conceal his true thoughts behind a charming smile, leading everyone to regard him as a saintly person. He is skilled in both combat and manipulation. His sense of justice is profound, he strictly adheres to the law, even when it conflicts with family interests. Although I didn't connect with him as much as I did with Chu Mingyun, I found his character incredibly intriguing.

Their relationship has the same vibes as the dynamic between Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu. They are enemies from the beginning and remain so throughout the volume. However, they engage in a subtle game of seduction, where genuine feelings gradually blossom. Their banter is delightful, watching Chu Mingyun constantly declare his love while Su Shiyu skillfully deflects with a smile is endlessly amusing. Every interaction between them is a highlight, with their chemistry palpable and intense. Every scene involving them exudes a kind of sizzling tension.

In conclusion, this danmei was very fun, featuring a compelling plot and engaging political intrigue. I’m already looking forward to volume 2.

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I absolutely adore this book and admit I’m completely biased/blind to any critiques lol. I’m also okay with people finding something I love boring. Rosmei did a fantastic job but I really miss all the footnotes we get from FTLs. This volume ends at chapter 50 of the novel (halfway). My review of the FTL is no different than the official TL with the exception of having to learn new terms/titles and no footnotes.

This is what I imagine as a true “enemies to lovers/rivals to allies” novel. Seems a lot of people didn’t really like the characters, but that was my favorite part of this novel 🥰. The overall plot wasn’t really anything unique but there was enough court intrigue and murder mystery solving to keep me invested. The MC and ML are both in very powerful and politically opposing positions and serve an inept Emperor who would rather be a carpenter/artist. I read a beautiful translation that included lots of official art from the audio drama and Weibo and also some incredible fan art.

Characters
MC Su Shiyu: Court censor, devoted to the throne/country and in turn the Emperor who he grew up with, quiet, calm, appears gentle “most eligible bachelor “, helplessly speechless and exasperated when it comes to the ML. The Emperor adores him and would marry him if he was a woman
ML Chu Mingyun: military gong, chatty, teasing, shameless , appears carefree, has a very loyal military following but not popular in court, (reminds me a little of Xiao Chiye). The Emperor fears him but also needs him.

What I loved:
🩷The banter, flirting, and bickering- reminds me a little of Peerless
🩷A nice mix of comedy, angst, conspiracy, and intimacy
🩷Watching them fall in love but one in denial and the other unaware how hard he’s fallen already
🩷Multiple couples (four!) but they don’t get enough time so don’t get too excited
🩷 Both are scheming and smart
🩷I know you can protect yourself but let me protect you energy from the ML
🩷Fairly short at 89 chapters/2 extras. The story felt linear and tight with an easy to follow plot and cast of characters
🩷Two fujoshis

Spoilers below!
If I had some complaints…
-Too many side characters that I really liked died
-It did get a tiny bit slow at times
-Side couples could have used more time/development
-Someone tried to murder them in a house at a party? Unbothered. It felt weird that some things would be a huge deal and others they wouldn’t even let anyone know
-The ending was crescendoing but then it felt rushed?
-I needed more of their happily every after 💔

"He is my baobei, just so you know.” 🥰

[Monique · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

4,5 'fan & zither' stars



This book was a very lovely surprise. I went into it blind, without any expectations, and not knowing anything about the plot or characters. But I liked the cover and heard it's good, so that was enough for me to order it, lol. Since it's only two volumes long, I have a feeling that everything is happening a little faster that I'm used to from other danmei but it's a nice change from long, complicated plots. As much as I love tgcf, qjj, erha... the huge casts of characters and multiple sideplots can get a bit tiresome sometimes. But jyjf actually has very little characters, and even those are dying very quickly, so, you know, don't get to attached to anyone, just in case.



The plot is not overly complicated but I have to admit that I needed some time to figure out what's even going on because the story basically starts in the middle of action. And I think that's the vibe of the whole book. It's pretty much action all the time. Like anything that can be skipped, is absolutely skipped. That sometimes bothered me, and gave me a feeling like I can't really keep up with the story, and doesn't even give me a chance to properly get to know the characters. But on the other hand, it was also kind of refreshing. There's zero filler, the story constantly keeps you on the edge, and there's not a single scene that dragged. The most important aspect for me to enjoy the story are the characters, and luckily the main couple really shines in this book.




Gif by letthefairyinyoufly

Su Shiyu is the grand censor, one of the two pillars that practically hold up the empire. He's cold, and aloof, untouchable and unapproachable, no one really knows what is he hiding behind the flawless façade of a perfect gentelman. He's always wearing white, apparently because he had very ruthless methods of fighting as a teenager and therefore, his father forced him to wear white to know whether he's been fighting or not. We haven't learned much about his past yet, not why is he still wearing white. But he's not openly fighting anymore, so most people doesn't even know that he's practicing martial arts.




Gif by heymeowmao

And then we have the complete opposite.




Gif by green-ajah

Chu Mingyun is the grand commandant, the other pillar of the empire. On the surface, he seems very chill and easygoing but he can be very ruthless and cold-blooded as well. He usually carries around his fan that is actually a weapon - and I'm a huge fangirl of fan-weilding fighters. No one particularly likes him, and absolutley everyone fears him, but for some reason many people wants to fuck him. If I quote one of his admirers: "Looking at his foxy appearances, he must be a wildcat in bed." We haven't gotten the privilage of seeing his action in bed yet but his action on the battlefield is richly deserved. And I think I need to fix my previous statement - he definitely has the admiration of his soldiers, and because of that his military power makes him as much as a protector as also a threat.




Gif by watch-grok-brainrot

The most enjoyable parts of this book were their interactions. Every time they were together on a scene was a delight to read. Of course, there's some politics in the story but we can say that the main plot is Chu Mingyun pretending that he's a cut-sleeve and in love with Su Shiyu to achive... actually, I never get it what exactly was the point? Make Su Shiyu so flustered that he would just end his political career maybe? Anyway, whatever that was, it was very funny to read about.

“Shiyu, I've been in love with you for a long time.”
Su Shiyu was stunned speechless for a moment, before gracing the grand commandant with yet another polite smile. “Chu Daren, do not jest-”
“You don’t believe me?” Chu Mingyun interrupted him. He then clenched his fist more tightly, and declared sincerely, “The heaven and the earth can bear witness to my declaration of love to you. My only wish is to marry—cough—to grow old with you. Will you be willing to grant me this honour?”
“I'll not,” Su Shiyu said, equally sincerely.
[...]
“l don't blame you for doubting my affection. I shall prove myself to you. Shiyu, you'll come to know that my love for you is true.” These were the blatant words of passion that emerged from the grand commandant's own lips. Yet, under his sleeve, he pinched himself so that his eyes brimmed with emotion.
Su Shiyu’s gentle smile deepened suddenly in that instant. His eyes narrowed slightly as he spoke, again, in a gentle tone. “Are you ill?”
“Indeed I am, with lovesickness,” Chu Mingyun did not waver, and neither did his words.

Chu Mingyun watched Su Shiyu undo his outer robe and couldn’t help teasing him. “At last, Su Daren is finally showing a desire to take advantage of me.”
Su Shiyu didn’t even look at him as he spoke. He quickly tore off a piece of the sleeve of his inner garment to bandage his shoulder. After a moment’s thought, he decided to explain his purpose. “The incense I use to scent my clothes has a calming effect. It may help to relieve the pain.”
“You've cut your sleeve, Su Daren,” said Chu Mingyun with a grin. “A piece of your inner garment has now touched my bare skin. My innocence is gone. Su Daren, are you going to take responsibility?”
Su Shiyu's eyes shot up. He wanted to know the look on the grand commandant's face as he bemoaned the loss of his innocence. He stared at the bloodied robes again. "If you keep talking nonsense, I'm afraid you won't live long enough for me to take responsibility."

Their banter is amazing! And I especially liked that they legit are 'enemies to lovers'. Their positons at court put them in the opposite factions, they've been trying to get rid of each other for years. Unsuccessfully, of course. However, at the start of the story they are actually actively planning how to assassinate each other. They kind of reminded me of cezhou and fengcui in a way that they went from enemies to being forced to work together for the same goal - so that's a big plus. I adore that kind of relationship.

Chu Mingyun simply smiled. "What is it that you need me for?"
Su Shiyu's fingers brushed his teacup. "Chu Daren, you and I both know that someone is trying to stir trouble in the capital. We might not get along, but in the face of a common enemy, we could try to be allies."
"Why do you keep insisting that we don't get along when I'm so madly in love with you?" Chu Mingyun sighed loudly. "You break my heart."

And when they finally caught feelings, they were very much giving off wenzhou vibes. I'm convinced that Wen Kexing and Chu Mingyun read the same book about 'How to win the love of your life by annoying them 24/7'. And it actually works, lol. Zhou Zishu and Su Shiyu being like 'OMG, he's such an idiot but he's my idiot'.

"As you wish," Chu Mingyun said nonchalantly. "You're doing so much for me, Su Daren. How will I ever repay you?" He paused then grinned at Su Shiyu. "How about my hand in marriage?"
"I could never." Su Shiyu smiled. "If you're truly greatful, perhaps you could refrain from teasing me so much."

Their undercover missions were very funy to read because they certainly do like to get handsy with each other. Even when they are hiding from the guards or doing silly things during investigations.

The smooth, silky fabric glided under Chu Mingyun's fingers, emphasising the trim and supple waist. If he could speak right now, he would commend the man for his figure just to see his reaction. Pity he could not. [...] He tightened his hold on the man whilst his fingertips slid gently over the maroon pattering of his collar, circling the same spot a few times before darting underneath.

Gif by duskofthemind

The grand censor took the ribbon and touched it briefly. It was soft and silky, and indeed just an ordinary ribbon. He turned towards Chu Mingyun, who had amusement in his eyes before he shut tuem, as if he were offering himself to Su Shiyu. The ribbon wound around his eyes and ended in a knot behind his head. Su Shiyu’s touch was gentle. A faint fragrance kissed Chu Mingyun's cheeks as the grand censor's sleeves shifted above him. Amidst the eventful happenings in the room, Chu Mingyun thought to himself leisurely that it was indeed wonderful to be served by the grand censor.

Gif by bluesandfilms

I should maybe say some words about the actual plot, but well, I admit I was paying way more attention to their antics than to political intrigues and how the empire is faring. I mean, I can never resist some tropes, like 'there was only one bed' and chusu were doing it amazingly!

"It would be impolite if I refuse such a well-intended gesture. Yet I must still insist that you take the bed. Otherwise, I might accidentally step on you when I get up in the night for tea."
"Do you have a habit of having tea in the middle of the night?"
Su Shiyu smiled. "No, but I might just start doing it tonight."
Chu Mingyun's fan unfolded with a loud 'whoosh', hiding his face. He sighed as he held a sleeve as a shy maiden would. "Oh my, such persistence, my dear sir... If you insist on sharing a bed, I suppose I'll surrender myself to your desires."

They have so much chemistry in every scene that they are together. Actually, even if they are apart, that chemistry is still sizzling. And I really enjoyed how they act with each other. Yes, Chu Mingyun is the shameless one, the one who's doing most of the flirting, calling Su Shiyu 'baobei', proposing marriage... but Su Shiyu is not far behind. He might be more reserved but he's in no way a blushing innocent. As I said, their every interaction was a delight to read.

"You need not to explain yourself," Chu Mingyun said, his smile widening. "Is it hard to admit you wanted me to protect you? There's no shame in that."
"That reminds me." Su Shiyu stared back. "I've been meaning to ask you."
"Oh?"
"Is it hard, carrying around that much shamelessness?"
Chu Mingyun glanced down and smirked. "Want to feel how heavy it is?"

He tightened his arms, locking Chu Mingyun in a vice. Then he placed a hand over the man's eyes.
"Calm yourself." His voice was as tender as his hold was firm. "They are envoys, and they have come here to seek peace. You must not kill them. Not right now at least." [...] "You killed those who hurt you... It's all over."
Again and again, Su Shiyu chanted softly until the man in his arms stopped struggling. After a long moment, eyelashes fluttered against his palm. It tickled.
"Hey," the man rasped. "Keep talking to me. In that same tone."
"What would you like me to say?"
"Tell me..." he whispered, "Tell me that you're here. That you're still alive."
Su Shiyu eased his lips next to Chu Mingyun's ear. "I'm still alive. I'm still here." He took a small breath and added as tenderly as he could. "I'm here with you."

The funniest plot twist of this book is how Chu Mingyun made this carefull silly plan of chasing after Su Shiyu to make him do - whatever - and yes, Su Shiyu did catch feelings too but it was mostly Chu Mingyun, who started pinning after Shiyu like there's no tomorrow.

[Su Shiyu's] fingers fell upon the zither. Its strings shimmered under the moonlight as they began to sing. Notes fell like pearls scattering on an ornate plate, then landed like thunderous blows upon a war drum, then the shrill clashing of spears, cries of warhorses, and the swift roar of a rushing river.
As music filled the pavilion, Chu Mingyun simply watched - his elbow on his knee, his cheek in his palm - and lost himself to sight of Su Shiyu.

Just look at this, the greatest grand commandant of the empire, the most ruthless general of all time, being all mushy about being in love. How the mightiest have fallen. I love this, hahaha

He pressed his fingers to his lips, which slowly formed a gentle curve.
At last, he let out an airy laugh.
"I'm done for..."
He was well and truly done for. He could not bury his head in the sand or lie to himself any longer. The truth was staring him in the face. He was in love.

My favourite scene of theirs actually happen before this love realization and even before their first kiss but I think that this is the moment they both comprehended that their feelings cannot be brushed aside anymore and that any thoughts about getting rid of each other are absolutely off limits now. Also, I adore it because they are so happy and carefree, something they probably haven't been allowed for a very long time.

Su Shiyu grasped at the ground beside him to grab a handful of snow and eyed it for a moment before stuffed it into the back of the grand commandant's collar without any warning.
Chu Mingyun reacted quickly, leaping away as soon as his neck touched the snow. Nonetheless, the ice behind his neck was still causing him to shiver. Narrowing his eyes slightly, he wasted no time in grabbing onto Su Shiyu as the latter rose to his feet. Before Su Shiyu could stand up firmly, he was caught unaware by Chu Mingyun’s grasp, and lost his footing. It was at that moment that Su Shiyu changed his mind; he grabbed onto Chu Mingyun’s arm and pulled him down together with him.
The two of them landed on the snow. In the moment of falling, Chu Mingyun could not react fast enough, and could only prop himself upwards on the ground with his hands in order to avoid slamming downwards onto Su Shiyu. He lowered his gaze and caught the mischief in Su Shiyu’s smiling eyes.
Chu Mingyun moved one hand beside Su Shiyu’s head to brush the snow off him. “Su Shiyu, if you were anyone else, I would have buried you alive in the snow.”
[...]
“If just about any person had enough skills to pull such a trick on you, Chu Daren would probably be too embarrassed to publicly show his face to everyone.” Su Shiyu then lifted his hand again to Chu Mingyun’s temples, carefully wiping away the snow that had scattered itself on his hair.

As Chu Mingyun's fingers remained firm on Shiyu’s chin. His eyes fell on the suple lips that always looked pale. But at that moment, a tinge of colour was visible, tainted with a vivid red. Driven by a sudden impulse, Chu Mingyun found himself pressing toward those lips.
“…Chu Daren?” A gentle voice called out to him suddenly, carrying a tinge of shock.
Chu Mingyun froze inches above Su Shiyu. As he stared straight into Su Shiyu’s eyes, he realized that he had almost kissed the man. All that separated them was a few inches. He could feel Su Shiyu's breath on his lips.

I can't wait for them to officially become a couple because if they are already like this now...

He wanted to touch him and make him his own. The thirst for the man grew fervent. Chu Mingyun’s eyes darkened with lust as he leaned in.
“…”
His lips touched Su Shiyu's palm. Silently, he looked up at the man who had blocked his kiss. The corners of his eyes lifted upwards as they curved into a smirk.
Su Shiyu's heart skipped a beat. There was a warm and soft sensation on his palm. He subconsciously tried pulling his hand backwards, only to have Chu Mingyun grab onto it tightly. His focus was lost, and he stopped struggling.
Chu Mingyun kissed the palm of his hand, before moving on to tracing the veins on his palm with his tongue. He continued licking and kissing his hand, all the way from his palm to his knuckles, before lifting his gaze directly into Su Shiyu’s eyes. Then with a devious smirk, he sank his teeth lightly into the tip of a finger. His tongue darted out and licked the bite mark.
Su Shiyu's fingers curled, coming into contact with teeth, eliciting a laughter deep within the grand commandant's chest. Chu Mingyun winked as he gently held a knuckle between his teeth. [...] He finally let go and pressed a kiss on the back of Su Shiyu's hand before laying it on his own cheek.

Chu Mingyun gently brought Su Shiyu's face close, then without any warning, kissed him. He traced the shape of those lips with his own, then nudged them open with his tonque. Su Shiyu was suddenly frozen in place - his mind had already gone completely blank.

Gif by bluesandfilms

I'd like to talk about side characters as well but I'm running out of space. We have a side couple that I'm very interested in but we haven't see much of them yet. The emperor is also an interesting character (half in love with Shiyu but aren't we all). And I love two lovely ladies that are no.1 chusu fans!!



4,5 'fan & zither' stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
vol 2 tbr

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally, I DNF’d the FTL due to finding it boring.

But on pay day weekend, I decided to impulsively buy the officially translated version because the cover is so god damn pretty.

And I don’t regret it.

Here are a few of many random thoughts while reading this:

- Chu Mingyun (MC) and Su Shiyu (ML) should kiss already.
- Finally they kissed (near the end).
- Qin Zhao (MC's BFF) and Du Yue (ML cousin) are precious. These cinnamon rolls better get a HEA and confess their feelings to each other.
- Thank god the one bed trope is alive and well. Long may it reign.
- RIP Princess. You may have been a black widow but you deserved the world.

It seemed VERY convenient how our MC’s uncovered the villains and then they ended up dead more or less straight away. I think there is more reveals to come and I’m looking forward to see how everything progresses in vol 2.

[Queens Love Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

"I don't know too, but in our language, we have a saying: when you love a person, scorpions and spiders crawl over your heart. Your heart will jump and beat very quickly. It'll hurt very much. You feel scared, but you also feel very happy."



I picked this up feeling excited because historical danmei and mystery are two of my favorite things. I struggled more than I expected, especially in the beginning. I had to put it down a couple of times before I hit the middle and felt more settled into the story. The faded ink on some pages in my copy didn’t help at all. A few sections were hard to read, and it broke my focus. I also kept getting tripped up by the number of mysterious characters who are not clearly named. I know the confusion is intentional, but I kept doubting myself. I’d flip back a few pages thinking I missed something, only to realize I hadn’t. It genuinely made me question if I was half asleep while reading.

The story opens with a suspicious death and slowly widens into political schemes, falsified confessions, secret ledgers, bronze tokens, underground gambling rings, burned estates, and foreign tension simmering in the background. Everything connects in a way that makes sense, and I could see the careful planning behind it. I just never felt fully pulled into the mystery. I wasn’t trying to solve it in my head or feeling shocked by the reveals. One storyline that felt especially sad gets brushed aside pretty quickly, and that part really stuck with me. It had emotional weight, and I wanted more time with it before the story moved on.

Chu Mingyun walks into every room with playful charm and a kind of calculated confidence. He pushes buttons on purpose, flirts when it benefits him, and always seems one step ahead. Then there are small moments where that composure slips, and you see hints of jealousy or quiet vulnerability. Su Shiyu carries himself with discipline and restraint. He’s serious about justice, observant, and careful with his trust, but there’s a deep loyalty under that calm exterior. Their connection builds through shared danger, political maneuvering, and long silences that feel loaded with meaning. There’s one especially cute scene between them that made me giggle. I liked the tension between them and the way their relationship unfolds in subtle, charged moments, even when I wished the mystery itself had pulled me in more.

Date Read: 2026.02.16

[Yvonne ⚬ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 ★

[mara - hyrulevalkyrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This feels like a mix of QJJ and Peerless and I loved it

[Ash · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not going to lie, this is kind of a lower three for me.

I feel really... mixed on this book overall. There were a lot of aspects of this story that I really did like. I do like the main characters individually (Chu Mingyun I think is especially interesting because he is lowkey evil LOL), and I think they had some genuinely cute moments here and there throughout the story. Some of the side characters were enjoyable enough and I did get intrigued with at least one of the villains. There was even a chapter that genuinely damn near made me cry and probably made me feel the most emotion out of this whole story. And I truly always will give a book credit where credit is due when it manages to make me feel intense emotions because a lot of books (even books I really like) can't always accomplish that in me.

But there were a lot of flaws in this as well for me and the longer the book went on, the more and more they started piling up for me.

My main problem with this story mainly comes back to the central mystery and the structure on how this story is set up. People keep comparing this story a lot to Peerless, and as a Peerless super fan, I actually say I have to disagree other than them sharing the basic concept of 'rivals/enemies-to-lovers' and there being a mystery plot... Peerless also has "episodic mysteries" as well as a overarching main mystery like this story does... but the episodic mysteries in Peerless span for almost the entirety of the volumes and have very developed premises and characters throughout which makes you care and I feel the overarching mystery makes you want to figure it out... this one, I cannot say the same. Chapters felt very episodic in nature and almost felt like they had really similar structures for a good chunk of this book and the antagonist would be quickly defeated and disposed of before you could really feel for them or develop them... and as a result, it made me not really care about the main mystery ever.

The one part I mentioned that made me feel really strong emotions, even then, I felt like the issue was very quickly brushed away and moved on from in a manner entirely too fast and it made the moment feel a little bit flatter as a result sadly.

While the main characters do have cute moments between one another here and there, I still kind of felt like their relationship felt strangely underdeveloped. To be fair, their relationship is still technically 'developing' by the end of this story but if I am not really feeling their relationship or shipping them after reading nearly 400 pages of content featuring them, then I fear that is a problem.

My last issue comes down to just feeling like a lot of the language felt repetitive in this story. I don't know if that was a problem in the original text of this story or if it was due to the translation but if you made a drinking game for every time Su Shiyu smiled in this book, you would be dead and reincarnated into the next life nine times over, amongst other phrases. Added with the repetitive structure of the book and it just made for a very blah experience near the end for me.

I do think I will continue to the second book, since I feel like I might as well finish what I started and I will say I *enjoyed* what I read of this book for the most part... but I am not hurrying to buy it right now.

[Claire · Rating 4.75 out of 5]

This book seems to start in the middle of a story and we're left trying to work out what's going on and keep up. This had a slow start and I struggled to get in to it but I persevered and it really paid off.
The political intrigue is interesting once you're up to speed. The developing friendship/relationship between the two main characters is very well written and builds naturally throughout. What starts as a subterfuge develops in to a real love which I enjoyed. Love the banter and bickering. Looking forward to seeing how this continues.

Can't wait to read the next volume.

UPDATE:
Reread on 8/11/26.
I wanted to reread volume 1 ready to read volume 2 which has been released recently.
I still love it just as much. I love the dawning realisation that real feelings have developed.

[Catharina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Su Shiyu and Chu Mingyun are certainly a pair that can be called a power couple without a second of hesitation, even though they are still only awkwardly dancing around each other. This was a perfect mix of comedy, action and drama and I enjoyed every bit of it. Seeing someone pretend to love someone only for it to spectacularly backfire at him was always a favourite and it was just as delightful here. The court intrigues and all that plotting and scheming had the little gremlin in me cackle and rub his hands, it was engaging and has me curious what all will be thrown in these two's path in the next book.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good powercouple, that still is in denial :D and it's so good to watch them slowly (and to the end faster) fall and fall and fall for each other. Also their bickering and scheming is such a delight. Especially the delicate Su is more than the shows.
Generally speaking the whole story will be a lot of scheming and political intrigue, while they both navigate this whole mess - it's interesting, but i do need a char with the chars and in which side they belong. And there probably will still be a LOT of drama incoming, especially because we still don't know a lot about the past of both Chu and Su, and everyone is fucking SUS.

Also i love how griim some of the themes are :D none of them is a dainty loveably innocent char (maybe Du Yue), and i love this - they had war with the Huns, and it was gruel, and there was torture and stuff - and i love it, because its realistic. So yeah

I had a lot of fun with this one :3

[Em · Rating 4 out of 5]

Politics! Schemes! Faking love but accidentally falling for real! This has so much fun stuff going on in it. The dynamic between the two leads is a stellar push and pull that has me shaking my head as to who I'll side with when shit inevitably hits the fan. If you like danmei with a lot of subterfuge and politics (like Peerless, Ballad of Sword and Wine, or Joyful Reunion) this is the bok for you!

[LATRELL BRICE · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a pleasant surprise for me. I honestly ended up binge reading this when I absolutely was not supposed to because once I got invested, I really did not want to put it down.

The story heavily involves court politics and political maneuvering, but it never felt overly complicated or exhausting to follow. Everything felt balanced well enough that I stayed engaged the entire time. The real highlight though was definitely the characters.

Chu Mingyun completely stole the show for me. He reminded me a little of Gu Yun from Stars of Chaos with that charismatic, playful, slightly unhinged energy mixed with genuine intelligence and capability. His constant teasing and interactions with Su Shiyu had me laughing multiple times throughout the novel.

Su Shiyu was equally interesting in a completely different way. He’s cold, emotionally distant, highly intelligent, and so unfamiliar with emotional attachment that watching his dynamic with Chu Mingyun slowly develop was extremely satisfying. Their rivals-to-lovers progression was done really well in my opinion.

What surprised me most was how emotionally attached I became to the cast overall. There was a particular death later in the story that genuinely made me sad, which I honestly was not expecting going into this.

Overall, this ended up being one of my favorite shorter danmei reads, and now I’m suffering having to wait until October for volume 2.

[selina · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Su Shiyu's smile widened. His eyes narrowed slightly as he spoke, again, in a gentle tone. "Are you perchance sick?"

"I am," said Chu Mingyun without skipping a beat. "I'm lovesick."

Chu Mingyun pretending to be in love with his rival and harassing him with corny pick up lines and embarassing declarations of love just to then actually fall in love with him truly was the highlight of my entire week.

I absolutely adored this book. Going in with knowing next to nothing about the plot and characters I was pleasantly surprised by just how hooked I was from the very start. While the plot itself really isn't anything we haven't seen before, this story shines through its characters. Chu Mingyun and Su Shiyu were such complex and wonderfully compelling characters and the development of their relationship even more so.

From years of animosity due to opposing political stances to bickering allies due to circumstance to yearning souls in love – I enjoyed every step of the way. The intense yearning really was one of the main aspects that stood out to me about these two. Besides the fact that I loved how vocal and honest Chu Mingyun was about his feelings I also loved reading about the deep devotion and tender love chusu held for each other (I could write an entire essay about the New Year's chapter alone). Chusu have absolutely stolen my heart and have easily become one of my favourite danmei couples.

[Amandine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love the tension between the 2 main leads ❤️❤️❤️

[K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this first volume! The plot was intriguing and I loved how their relationship grew throughout the novel. I couldn't put the book down. I stayed up late to finish it and I do not regret it at all.

[Jul Prince · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh boy, do I have stuff to say about this Danmei.

Someone on TikTok (that I trust entirely with my Danmei recs) said that you should read this if you want to read QJJ, which I started but got too overwhelmed from the political stuff, Só I started this in the hopes it would motivate me to continue QJJ

AND I LOVED IT! Well, I liked it a normal amount

And it did what it was supposed to do, seeing how I’m going back to QJJ now

But like, can we talk about what the fuck is going on? I understood what was going on, but I have zero clue where it’s going

Also, does the emperor have a crush on Su Shiyu? Cause that’s what it seemed like at the end
And if he does, what is that going to be like? Like, will it be a big part of the plot? Who is the ACTUAL mastermind behind all this?

Man, I can’t wait for volume 2!!!

[SSA · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely story. It was very slice of life even though the stakes were extremely high. This felt like a cozy mystery with two very charming and delightful leads. The mini cases they were investigating were very entertaining and led to them uncovering an even bigger mystery. I can't wait to see how it unfolds.

I liked how competent and intelligent both Lord Chu and Lord Su were. Their flirting and banter was top tier and I can't wait to read how their relationship progresses. I really liked Lord Chu, he was a shameless flirt and I liked that he was being so insincere while trying to seduce Lord Su at the beginning and ended up falling deeply in love with him. And now, his early insincerity has come to bite him in the ass because Lord Su doesn't believe that he's telling the truth about his feelings for him.

“ If I had the choice, I’d rather spend the night staring at myself in the mirror than have them in my bedchamber.” Lord Chu was so funny.

“No, master, you have no idea how bad it is.” Su Bai flushed in embarrassment as he looked for the right words. “They’re saying that you’re so upstanding a man, that in the bedchamber Chu Mingyun probably takes the bottom.” Hilarious.

“Chu Mingyun’s smile widened as he leant his cheek against his palm. “Maybe the heavens are trying to tell us something, Lord Su.” Lord Chu was quite romantic even if he was being insincere.

“You’ve cut your sleeve, Lord Su,” said Chu Mingyun with a grin. “A piece of your inner garment has now touched my bare skin. My innocence is gone. Are you going to take responsibility?” Lord Chu continues to flirt while actively in pain and so hurt he can't move.

“Li Yanzhen shook his head. “I have seen them all, and all pale in comparison to you, Lord Su. None have caught my eye.”

“But I am no woman, Your Majesty,” Su Shiyu said with a laugh. “Besides, if we speak of true beauties, we must not forget Lord Chu.”

Brow raised, Chu Mingyun threw the grand censor a look. “I am no woman either.” I liked them flirting but what an interesting thing for the Emperor to say.

“Tan Jing shook his head. His voice was laced with contempt when he spoke. “You must have never fallen in love? They say that you have no capacity for love. I used to deem those comments as complaints from the desperate souls who had failed to foist their daughters on you. Now, I see that they were right.” His smile twisted in disdain. “You miserable excuse for a man.” Harsh.

“If you don’t believe me, you could search me.” Chu Mingyun swung his arms wide open. “Say the word. I’ll strip naked and let you inspect every inch of me.” Lord Chu was such a shameless flirt.

“Just look. There’s nobody here. This feels more like a moonlight tryst. Speak plainly: have you fallen in love with me? Are you going to have your way with me now?”
“And what would I do with you?”
Chu Mingyun straightened his own robes, his sandalwood fan in hand. He gave Su Shiyu a cryptic smile as he stared at the man’s back. “There’s plenty you could do with me. Let us talk about that. I could teach you the fastest way to strip naked. You can tell me how you like–” I would love to see Lord Su call his bluff once.

“Following the other players, Chu Mingyun split his four tiles into two even stacks. “What if I told you that my wish was to lie with Su Shiyu the Grand Censor?” Lord Chu was so committed to the bit. I loved his unabashed goal to fluster Lord Su at any given moment.

“They say now that Grand Commandant Chu fancies men. He looks like he’d be a wildcat in bed. A night with him would surely be more ecstatic.” His reputation is truly preceding him now.

“Chu Mingyun was a beautiful man with striking features. The constant faint smile on his lips and sultry beauty had earned him condescension and contempt from old and stubborn officials in court. ” The tides are turning. Lord Su is starting to see the appeal of Lord Chu.

“Chu Mingyun gave him a look before heading for the door. He huffed as he stepped inside. “It’s a tryst. No one uses the door. You’re so unromantic.”
Su Shiyu had straightened his robes and was pouring a cup of tea. “You find sneaking in through the window romantic? Do you also find burglars lovely?”
Chu Mingyun smirked. “But I only have eyes for you.” Every time they interact makes me so happy. And I like how Lord Su doesn't back down.

“I’ve heard how the rest talk about you. It appears that they were right.” He pointed at Su Shiyu. “You know no desire, no love, no passion, and no sorrow. A person like you deserves to live and die alone.” Why is everyone coming for my guy’s neck with this?? Some people don’t trust easy or it takes them longer to feel love or passion. It doesn’t mean they aren’t human or don’t deserve to live.

“Jiang Yuan froze as a myriad of emotions swelled within her chest. She stared at his hand. It was the hand of a scholar who had held documents, ink brushes, and burins—a hand that had never been stained with blood. Like the man himself, it was too soft. Not the hand of a ruler.
She sighed. What a naïve fool.” What’s with this obsession of antagonists wanting a cruel and violent man to be emperor?? He sounds like a great and gentle ruler and his time ruling has been peaceful. What more could they want??

“Li Yanzhen read the report. His sigh was filled with exasperation. “I see you’ve acted with the utmost diligence as always and have proposed your own execution as well.” What an interesting man. Lord Su reads as autistic coded to me with the social communication struggles, lack of romantic interest in others, his stringent rule following, and flat affect.

“Thump. Su Shiyu smacked the tree next to them. It shuddered violently. Thick layers of snow resting on its branches, peppered with crimson blossoms, were tossed into the air in a flurry before raining down heavily on them. As he was on top, Chu Mingyun bore the brunt and felt frost seeping through his skin and into his bones.” The whole moment in the snow was so cute.

“And do return sooner than later, lest I fall ill longing for you.
It was supposed to be a thoughtless tease.” Lord Chu caught feelings. AHHHH.

“Su Shiyu smiled. “That’s all right. If you like it, you can keep it.”
Chu Mingyun chuckled softly. His eyes were glued to the man, as if doing so would help him puzzle out what was going on in that head of his. “I like you more. Can I keep you too?”
Su Shiyu froze, then looked down. “You jest, Lord Chu.” No. He really isn't.

“He was well and truly done for. He could not bury his head in the sand or lie to himself any longer. The truth was staring him in the face. He was in love.” I’m genuinely shocked he accepted it so quickly and didn’t try to deny it. Good for him.

“If only you were a woman, Shiyu…”
He stopped in his tracks and turned around. His gaze travelled past Li Yanzhen and landed on the wooden sculpture’s face. Realisation dawned on him then. He hadn’t been mistaken—it did look familiar.” Is the Emperor in love with Lord Su?? Earlier in the book he was saying he has never met any woman as beautiful as him and he is so protective and trusting of him.

[Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all I was told this was Ballad of Sword and Wine but with less politicking (and why would I want that?) but thankfully they were wrong. If you are a fan of my fave Meng Xi Shi’s works Peerless and Thousand Autumns then you have come to the right place. Chu Mingyun has the flirtatiousness of both Yan Wushi and Feng Xiao. He also has the darker side and ruthlessness of both as well. I say he leans a bit more on the Yan Wushi side but that’s just because I love him. His silly flirting games are half of what make this story so good. Su Shiyu brings mostly Shen Qiao energy to the table but with some of the politicking of Cui Buqu. I loved all of the investigating the two did and getting to see bits of their martial arts prowess was so fun as well. I think what I particularly enjoyed was watching both of them fall in love (Su Shiyu don’t pretend, I see you). The political machinations are all so intriguing and I can’t wait to get my hands on book 2 to see how their story ends.

[lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

“There’s mist between us. Even though you sit in front of me, talk to me nicely, I can’t feel inside your heart. Everything is blurry, like you’re behind mist. If I blink, you will disappear.”

“You must bring Mister Pretty with you!”
“Do you want him to be there?”
“He’s so pretty! And”—Ayasi winked—“the mist disappears when he’s around.”

🥹🥹🥹🥹

“Slowly, his lips curved, and he whispered into his ear, “And do return sooner than later, lest I fall ill longing for you.”
[…] Yet for once, he did not retreat. He lowered his lashes—and smiled.
“I will.”
His voice was quiet, like jade sinking into a sea of flowers—the sound of a heart giving in.”

i’m actually sickened by how much i was moved by these parts to the point where i feel the need to add them to my review.
i didn’t really get the hype until about the halfway point but when i got it. I got it. thank you chu mingyun for thinking pretending to being in love with your rival who you’ve hardly talked to Ever was a good idea 😭

[Threesya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel like this is going straight to my top list of my favorite danmei and I love that for me!

Great balance between the political plot and the romance. And all the characters are so well executed. I love Chu Mingyun and Su Shiyu's dynamic. Their banters are to die for! I cant stop squealing and giggling like a maniac. Also, that certain part near the end, oh my goodness! Chu Mingyun, I was not aware of your game! The side characters are interesting as well.

I cant wait for the 2nd volume!

[Lazu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bit of a slow start, but I really enjoy the court politics slash courting. Chu Mingyun is a whole menace and I really need to find out both his and Su Shiyun's backstories. I really like characters like Su Shiyun who seemingly care for nothing and let nothing at all show and then they're the first to fall for the other

[qq · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s mid. Top is a Jinshi variant kinda it’s actually hilarious I love the pair though they’re so cute the slow burn was perfect. Top asked out his rival to prove something idek what goes on his head he even felt the need to spread the news that he likes men and ended up falling for him for real and the supposed rival fell for him too they’re both doomed

[Ezra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a treat. The banter is immaculate and it's hilarious but it also had me feeling FEELINGS, let me tell you. With how good this was, I can only imagine that this story is going to go out with a bang (perhaps of fireworks again?) in the second (and final) volume.

[Dolunay · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75

[GM]

yearning galore. I liked the tension between the leads but I don't think the plots (esp around military matters) were the best. couldn't really feel how smart the leads were

君有疾否

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful calming read. Just a hint of intrigue , mystery and a fun relationship. I love both the ml and MC and I'm excited for the next one!

[Moo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cuties 😭😭 pls lock in and get married I can’t take it anymore. The yearning is too much help help

[Heather Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another reviewer called this "a simplified version of Peerless." I think this is an apt description. I'm fine I get very enjoyable and I can't wait for the next volume.