The Male Lead isn't Following the Script!

The Empire was abuzz with tales of Cassian’s feats. Stories of his bravery and heroism traveled far and wide, painting a picture of the perfect prince who had dedicated himself to the safety of his people.

It was said he had slain countless monsters, pushing back the dangers at the Empire’s borders and expanding the territory. People admired him deeply, calling him the people’s prince, their protector, and their hero.

Whispers grew louder with every passing day. Citizens voiced their hope that Cassian would reclaim his position as Crown Prince. Many believed he was the rightful heir, the one who had proven himself worthy through action rather than mere birthright.

The details surrounding the second prince’s death were shrouded in mystery. Without concrete evidence or answers, the narrative shifted entirely toward Cassian’s achievements.

The third prince, Marcus, was also gaining recognition. Despite his youth, he was celebrated as a prodigy. His tutors spoke highly of his intelligence and discipline, and his mother, the Imperial Concubine, worked tirelessly to ensure his path to greatness. However, time was not on her side.

The Emperor was growing older, and Marcus, though talented, was still just a boy. Cassian was making a name for herself and most of the citizens were on his side. What the emperor wanted was achieved, his blatant favouritism for Cassian infuriated her.

The Imperial Concubine grew restless. As if these problems were not enough. Her own father was working against her. He had long worked in the shadows to secure power for his family.

Lucas, his earlier pawn, had failed him, leaving him no choice but to focus on Marcus. But the Viscount’s ambitions began to clash with his daughter’s. He saw Marcus as a tool to further his own goals, while the Concubine struggled to maintain control over her son.

It was a bitter irony. The Viscount, once her strongest ally, was now her greatest adversary. She watched helplessly as Marcus, influenced by his grandfather’s manipulations, began slipping from her grasp.