Concubinage Stories

「船幽霊 II funayūrei 」- ship ghost; a vengeful seaborne spirit of the deceased known to lure sailors to their deaths and sink various watercraft in order to evade loneliness.

Crown Prince Sovieshu's marriage to Navier, his childhood companion and the ideal Crown Princess, is seen as a union of duty and love, securing the future of the empire. But as the pressures of succession mount, Sovieshu is urged by the Emperor's council to take secondary consorts. Lihua, the composed and politically astute daughter of a powerful duke, and Niaojie, a graceful Korean princess, are chosen to solidify alliances and strengthen the empire's influence. Though each woman brings her own strength to the court, their relationships are rooted in mutual respect rather than rivalry. Lihua's loyalty to her family and Niaojie's quiet wisdom complement Navier's established position as Crown Princess. Together, the consorts navigate the complexities of palace life, each balancing personal desires with their duties to the empire and Sovieshu. As their roles intertwine, Sovieshu must find harmony within this delicate household, where the fate of the empire and his own heart hang in the balance. "THE WEAVERS" delves into the early days of Sovieshu's rise, exploring the intricate dynamics of his marriages, loyalty, and the unforeseen alliances that shape the course of his legacy. PREQUEL TO THREADS OF FATE