#Daisy: How to Become the Duke's Fiancée

[manganimetradnow]

19 Manhwa Like Marriage of Convenience Webtoon

Are you looking for a manhwa like the Marriage of Convenience webtoon? If so you are on the right track. Will will uncover the top recommended titles Bianca de Blanchefort was forced to leave the opulence of her home and marry Count Zachary de Arno before she even understood what marriage was. She never lost her passion for the opulence of her upbringing, and even though her husband disregarded…

[lilikags]

Marqis Killian D’essel Icons from Daisy: How to Become a Duke’s Fiancee

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[waaanderingluna]

🥀 𝕯𝖆𝖎𝖘𝖞: 𝕳𝖔𝖜 𝖙𝖔 𝕭𝖊𝖈𝖔𝖒𝖊 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝕯𝖚𝖐𝖊'𝖘 𝕱𝖎𝖆𝖓𝖈𝖊𝖊

[luvreyn]

My Manhwa List (2020) Part 7

It’s been a crazy 24 hours (more or less) for me. How are you all? Hope you’re doing better. Anyways, onto the list!

Forever Mine

Description:

He will follow every command I give him. He will follow me to the ends of the earth. He is Forever Mine.

THOUGHTS & WHY READ THIS:

- plot = 5/5 kinda simple yet so marvelous idk if it because the art helped to but this is so great

- honestly didn’t expect the revelation at the beginning

- art = 5/5 because i love it! look at how pretty they are!

- same author/illustration as sweet spooky darling 

- fact: i read this in one sitting that’s how good and captivating it was

- the characters are so cute

- no heavy drama 

- a personal favorite 

- i only have good words about this

- friends to lovers trope aye sir

- although i wish certain characters were given spotlight to tell their story, i understand that it wasnt the focus of the author 

- it’s so good that i didn’t even notice that i was at the last chapter type of good!

- they have the best friends

- the 3rd parties arent villainous at all so plus points

- verdict, highly recommended! i enjoyed it so much & i hope you do too!

Broken Melody

Description:

Minhee used to be a world-famous piano prodigy until one mistake sent her life spiraling. Her confidence shaken, her family broken and her life in ruins, all she can do is hope for a chance to make things better. That's when she meets Eun Hyun, the neighborhood piano teacher whose life has been filled with tragedies of his own. The world breaks everyone, it's up to us to pick up the pieces and glue ourselves back together. 

THOUGHTS & WHY READ THIS:

- plot = 5/5 very perfectly complicated & there’s a lot of elements present that gave the story flavors 

- art = 4.5/5 

- tbh i drop this some time in 2019 cause some parts were dark & depressing & heavy for me (and i wasnt in the best mindset that time) so just to warn you guys in case :) 

- mentor x student (the thing is, they were connected through one passion and she was no sexualized in any way, it was an emotional connection)

- d r a m a 

- lots of drama!!

- the character’s motivations!!! they all have this strong urge and motivation to achieve their goal 

- the end justifies the means <- probably their motto

- p i a n o (main reason i got drawn in)

- verdict, recommended if you crave for drama! 

By the Way, Dragon Mistress!

Description:

Though he had lost his family at a young age, through the help of Duchess Orleans and the Emperor, Karl grew up excellently. But at the banquet Karl attends to tell the Duchess of the Emperor's meaningful words, a questionable explosion takes place. Duchess, what is your true identity?!

THOUGHTS & WHY READ THIS:

- plot = 3/5 

- art = 3.5/5 

- only few chaps so give it a try!

- older girl x younger guy

- will probably gave it a higher rating if it didn’t felt rush or was executed properly

- the mistress is a strong independent woman amen

- verdict, an okay read!

Daisy: How to Become the Duke's Fiancée

Description:

Sweet, timid Daisy meets a tragic end after being betrayed by the man she loves. When she is given a second chance at life, she vows not to repeat the same mistakes of the past! The only problem is that she must pay off her father’s gambling debt to Kilian, an aristocrat with a terrifying reputation. One option will take her 60 years, and the other, just three... but it involves a contract marriage to Kilian, who must be three years married in order to inherit the title of duke. While Daisy has sworn off men, the conditions of the offer are too good to pass up. She will be paid a generous amount of money at the end of the contract and also be guaranteed a swift divorce. Is she making a mistake by putting her trust in another man? Or will this deal give her the wings she needs to fly?

THOUGHTS & WHY READ THIS:

- plot = 3/5 for now cause it only has 1 chap release

- art = 3.5/5

- going back in time trope

- i n t e r e s t i n g

- i wanna know what the hell happened!!!

- their dad is a jerk ugh

- her older sister doesnt even know her priorities

- verdict: has a potential so give it a try!

I Bid You Adieu

Description:

Ayne le Poregrin has three "trophies" in her collection of men: a reluctant fiancé held hostage by his debts, a fickle assassin paid to be her lover, and a soulless pet dog won at a slave auction. But to suddenly wake up one day as this femme fatale is the worst possible surprise. As the villainess of the novel "The Fairy Garden," the new "Ayne" is fated to die a painful death at the hands of her very own trophies! To sidestep her grim future, she knows she'll need to break up with all three. As soon as she tries to say goodbye, however, each man becomes attached and won't leave her alone! Can Ayne turn their affections towards the story's heroine and save her own life in the process? Based on the hit novel.

THOUGHTS & WHY READ THIS:

- plot = 3.5/5 

- art = 3.5/5

- truck-kun strikes again

- i s e k a i

- the assasin

- i relate to her in a fangirl level jk

- i n t e r e s t i n g

- verdict: this seems to be okay despite the overly used isekai element now or it’s probably because of the assasin & her attitude of collecting beautiful man but i do hope this rise to the ocassion aka develops properly

[fendaira]

[shizumae]

Manhwas with the same Author [Novel Cover]

Lisabel

The Predator's Fiancée [NSFW]

Daisy: How To Become The Duke's Fiancée

Lady Baby Is A Revenge Maker

Becoming the Dark Hero's Daughter

Kim Suji

Under the Oak Tree

Twilight Poem / Heeran Love Song

Dalseul

Flirting with the Villain's Dad / Seduce the Villain's Father

Crazy Like a Fox / The Princess Pretends To Be Crazy

I Raised A Black Dragon

Lee Haron

Villainess in Love / The Evil Lady's Hero

I'm All Out of Health

click here for -> pt 1 | pt 3

[daily-tropes-provider]

TROPE: "In order to escape my cruel fate, I shall form a contract relationship with someone and make sure that we'll never fall in love! But... can we really not?"

MANHWAS:

• The Soulless Duchess

• Ingrid, the White Deer

• I Don't Love You Anymore

• I Was Tricked into this Fake Marriage!

• Lucia

• Daisy: How to Become the Duke's Fiancée

[otome-mes]

Sir PLEASE that's not how healthy relationships work

[saintobio]

of lovers and liars. (3)

↳ suna rintarou/fem!reader

genre. play, tragedy, historical, angst

tags/warnings. written in script format, usage of archaic language, very ooc, sexual assault/harassment (not involving the ml), abortion/miscarriage, blood, poisoning, kidnapping, arranged marriage, polygyny

notes. direct quotes derived from shakespeare’s romeo and juliet and a midsummer night’s dream, loosely inspired by the following manhwas; what it means to be you, daisy: how to become the duke’s fiancé, how to get my husband on my side, and happily ever afterwards. fic header is from wished you were dead. as i have mentioned on my announcement, the final act has to be on separate post bc i've reached the 1000 post block limit.

ACT I-II -> ACT III-IV -> ACT V-VI -> ACT VII (FINAL)

ACT V

SCENE I. In your bedchambers. Afternoon.

Enter YOU, sitting in front of your vanity while staring blankly at the mirror. Two weeks have passed since the fountain incident and you have not heard from the duke. He stops visiting your chamber and does not seek you as he used to do, finally granting your wish to be left alone and be treated like a ghost. You try to ignore the ache in your heart and let your days pass by in humble silence until today when a new servant comes knocking at your door—a female with dark hair and obsidian eyes.

SERVANT

My lady, I will be serving you henceforth.

YOU

Fair maid, under whose command are you here for? And what name shall I call you by?

SERVANT

You can call me Ione, my lady. I am here at His Grace’s orders. The duke entrusts me to serve you. Full of vexation comes he—not with you, my good madam, but with another maid who did you wrong two fortnights ago.

YOU

(smiling sadly) My kind husband, although he has stayed away, he still looks after me. Days and days I had hoped to catch a glimpse of him, but he could not take even a single step inside my chambers.

You turn your head towards your left to appreciate the ray of sunlight that passed through your window.

YOU (CONT’D)

What is the news with the duke? Is he well?

IONE

In himself, he is. He spends most of his days at the imperial palace.

YOU

For diplomatic matters?

IONE

He is out hunting with the emperor as I heard. Today, ere his departure, the duke call’d upon a chef to prepare a meal for you as you have not been eating properly. Is there anything that will satisfy your tastes better, my lady?

YOU

I take your kindness with gratitude. However, food is not the problem. It is my physical condition that is being difficult.

IONE

(starts cleaning the dust off of the curtains) How so?

YOU

The ache in my head and the discomfort in my abdomen. I spend my days deep in my slumber.

IONE

My lady… Could it be that you are carrying the duke’s child?

YOU

(eyes widening) I-I would not deem so. It has only been two weeks since we consummated.

You touch your belly and ponder deeply, worried that there is a good chance that you are pregnant. A sudden wave of fear enters your body as you begin to consider the possible reaction of his other wives.

IONE

Your eyes and cheeks are sunken. Would you like for me to call a physician?

YOU

Ay me! I rather not. The duke will not hear about this, neither shall the duchess and the second wife. I do beseech you to grant me this one request. Keep it between us.

IONE

(takes your hand and squeezes it in comfort) Only ‘till I am certain that you are in good health, Lady Y/N.

You hear the horses neighing from a distance and you walk near the window to see a carriage from the imperial palace outside the estate. An emissary of the empress soon steps out and orders the rest of the knights to enter the residence, meeting with Duchess Hera halfway who welcomes them. The duchess speaks to the empress’ representative as a courtesy and stiffens at what she was told. You stand in curiosity and watch how Hera briefly looks back at your window with her venomous green eyes.

YOU

How now, what could be the matter down there? Her Grace looks displeased. Do you suppose something has happen’d to our husband?

IONE

Nay, good madam. Cease your worry. Here comes a knight!

A knight appears outside of your chambers, commanding his fellows to put down what appear to be gifts consisting of dresses, shoes, and jewelry. They all enter your room and fill up the floor with boxes of different sizes. Because of the visible gleam of confusion in your eyes, the knight speaks up.

KNIGHT

These gifts come from Her Imperial Majesty. Please accept this invitation, Lady Y/N. The empress would love to have you at her birthday banquet.

YOU

(accepting the sealed envelope) Thank you, good sir. Has the duchess and the other lady also received theirs?

KNIGHT

Invitations, madam. The empress made it clear that only the duke’s third wife shall receive the gifts.

YOU

I am surprised, and know not what to say. Her Majesty’s generosity is too much for a mere lady who was exiled from her home.

KNIGHT

(bowing) Her Imperial Majesty looks forward to seeing you soon, Lady Y/N.

Exit KNIGHT

Enter DUCHESS HERA and her servants, storming inside your bedchambers with a scowl on her face.

YOU

What brings you to my chambers at this hour, Duchess?

DUCHESS HERA

(gritting her teeth) I am amazed at your gall to think that winning the empress’ favor will make you a respected woman of this household. You do advance your cunning schemes more and more. I see your conspiracy before my eyes!

YOU

I do not understand what you mean by this. I have not once stepped out of this estate.

DUCHESS HERA

Lo, here she displays her artifice yet again!

YOU

I know not what artificial person you make of me, nor how it may concern your grace to imply such bold accusations. Is it the gifts that I received that spark’d your ire? If so, go and complain to Her Majesty yourself.

DUCHESS HERA

(pulls your hair in a fit of rage) Scornful wench! I’d have better cut your tongue out!

YOU

(shrieking) Duchess, stop—

IONE

(pulling you from the duchess) Your Grace, I cry you mercy, let my madam go! Be a proper lady!

HERA’S SERVANT 1

Insolent maid! You do not make an order to the duchess!

Duchess Hera shoves you to the floor and steps closer to Ione, eyeing her with a critical squint.

DUCHESS HERA

You… Are you this lady’s new maid? The one my husband call’d forth?

IONE

(bowing her head) Yes, Your Grace.

DUCHESS HERA

And you take your loyalty to this other woman?

IONE

The duke says I must.

Hera slaps your maid across the cheek, leaving all of you stunned and frozen. You soon get up from the floor and rush to Ione to shield her away from the duke’s cruel first wife.

YOU

Hurt me all you want, but it is unsightly that you do her harm for simply defending me. Ione is not your servant; she serves me. You cannot injure her as you wish.

DUCHESS HERA

(scoffs) Why, you are getting braver day by day! This chambermaid of ‘yours’ lives in my residence. Do I not, as the duchess of this estate, have all of my right to her? She exists to fit my fancies. She lives to acquiesce to my commands. As she is mine, I may dispose of her. Thus, the hand I lay is the hand she obeys!

The duchess takes another step closer to Ione, but you block her way and get pushed against the wall. A rush of ache overcomes your head and you yelp in pain, falling weak on your knees and touching the blood that is seeping out of your nose. Ione, the duchess, and her maids all stand in surprise.

IONE

(rushes to you) A physician! The lady is unwell!

Enter BUTLER, calling for a servant and instructing her to bring a physician right away. You lie still on Ione’s arms, who reaches for a cloth to wipe the blood on your nose.

BUTLER

Duchess Hera, speak in honesty, I pray you. What quarrel has taken place in the madam’s chambers? I shall report this incident to the duke.

IONE

I beg you must tell His Grace posthaste. Lady Y/N has fainted after the duchess struck her.

DUCHESS HERA

O, spite! O, hell! You foot-licker, I did not do such a thing! She fashions this counterfeit injury—do not bait yourselves with her act!

(turns to her servants) I struck her not, did I?!

HERA’S SERVANTS

(all nervous) No, Your Grace.

IONE

What heartless denial. What cruel confederacy!

BUTLER

I have heard enough. Prithee, Duchess Hera, head back to your chamber. You, Miss Ione, tend to Lady Y/N until the physician arrives. I must confess to the duke that having three wives do him no good.

Exeunt

SCENE II. The duke’s chambers. Night.

Enter YOU, lying in bed, and DUKE RINTAROU, sitting at the edge while stroking your cheek. You slowly open your eyes and look at your husband in a haze.

YOU

R-Rin, at long last, you appear before my eyes.

DUKE RINTAROU

Choose your words carefully. Hera already claims you did this for attention.

YOU

(sitting up, holding your head) That… that is false. I can never deceive you, my lord. I never have and never will I do so. About the duchess, she—

DUKE RINTAROU

Speak none of it. Your maid recounted the incident to me.

YOU

Then, about Demie… Forsooth, I did not—

DUKE RINTAROU

My wife, you are sick. You need not justify your actions. I will turn a blindeye to it.

YOU

My actions? Your words are cold.

DUKE RINTAROU

(leans in to press his lips on your cheek) Do not get upset. I have to be fair to my other wives.

YOU

To be fair to them means you will be unfair to me…

You realize that the duke is still clueless of how you are being treated by his wives. It seems that he considers today’s incident with Hera as the first instance of a quarrel between you two. In silence, you turn your face away and avoid his eyes.

DUKE RINTAROU

Are you in pain?

YOU

I wonder where.

DUKE RINTAROU

Tell me. Is it your head that aches so badly? I will do my part to ease it.

YOU

How will you ease my pain when it is within my heart! How, in your tongue’s sweet melody, can I protect myself from falling further in love? When the vows you spoke are the same vows you broke?

DUKE RINTAROU

(tucks a few strands of hair behind your ear) Be calm, my darling. What vows did I break?

YOU

That you will believe me more than hearsay.

DUKE RINTAROU

The situation we have is not that easy. I stay away to protect you. You are my third wife and yet I favor you more than—

A sudden knock on the door stops the duke, and the person behind it is the same woman who accused you of pushing her daughter into the fountain.

Enter LADY CI’AN

DUKE RINTAROU

(sits away from you as he looks at his second wife) Ci’an, what is it?

LADY CI’AN

How fares Your Grace at this hour of night?

DUKE RINTAROU

Is it not I who should ask? Speak your intentions briefly.

LADY CI’AN

(shoots you a glare before smiling at the duke) Forgive me, then, but this is inconsiderate of you.

DUKE RINTAROU

Come again?

LADY CI’AN

You refuse to have Hera nor I in your bedchambers, yet here you allow this ill-bred woman’s company in your bed. Have you forgotten what this mannerless wench did to Demie?

DUKE RINTAROU

You disturb my peace just to blather about this nonsense?

LADY CI’AN

‘This nonsense’—unsay your words, Rintarou! Our child is not nonsense. ‘Tis indign lady that bewitched you has assaulted my child. What pride have I left? Do you choose this liar over us, your true lovers?

YOU

(moving out of bed, wincing from pain) It is best that I come away.

LADY CI’AN

Hence, avaunt! Begone and quit my sight!

DUKE RINTAROU

Y/N, stay. You are unwell.

The duke holds you close and secures an arm around your waist before looking at his second wife with a frown.

DUKE RINTAROU (CONT’D)

Ci’an, do you assume your superiority over me? It seems that you speak so condescendingly. I am the head of this estate, wherefore, is it you that has authority?

LADY CI’AN

(taken aback) I did not mean so, Your Grace.

DUKE RINTAROU

Disrespect me more. Go on. Call me by my name and raise your voice at the duke.

LADY CI’AN

That is not my intent. My husband, please do not misunderstand. I am merely alarm’d that you give her privilege so easily.

DUKE RINTAROU

She is only to stay here at my chamber until she is nursed back to health. There is a reason I am keeping her by my side.

LADY CI’AN

What good reason is it that you insist on this offensive intimacy?

DUKE RINTAROU

A good reason that does not concern you.

LADY CI’AN

I am your wife!

DUKE RINTAROU

(sighing) The physician believes that she is with child! Since Y/N is ill, he requests another week or two before he checks again with confirmation.

Both you and Lady Ci’an fall silent—you, of surprise, while she, of horror. You tug at the duke’s arm and verify his statement, touching your belly with your other hand in disbelief.

YOU

Did my ears hear right? I am with child?

DUKE RINTAROU

(squeezes your hand) A good possibility.

LADY CI’AN

Th-This… cannot be…

DUKE RINTAROU

(to Ci’an) If she truly is carrying my heir, then, for the safety of our child, any harm done onto her will be warranted with punishment. You understand what I mean by that, do you not?

YOU

My love, speak a little more kindly.

LADY CI’AN

(gritting her teeth at you) Faugh! How dare you bespeak of his kindness to me! Do you act imperiously because you are now the subject of his preference?

YOU

Lady Ci’an, you are mistaken…

DUKE RINTAROU

Enough. Let us call it a night. Head back to your chambers, Ci’an, before I lose my temper.

Exit LADY CI’AN

YOU

I am at a loss of words. It never cross’d my mind that I would conceive this early in our marriage.

DUKE RINTAROU

Does it sadden you?

YOU

The opposite of what saddens me, more so! If good news awaits us in a fortnight, then haply this marriage is a blessing in disguise.

DUKE RINTAROU

To have a child?

YOU

(smiling dreamily) To be married to a good man and to have a child.

The duke smiles and leans in to kiss you softly, tilting his head so he can match the movements of your sweet lips. His hand touches your cheek as he slowly pins you under him, trailing his kisses down your neck and your collarbone before he pulls away to stare at your eyes.

DUKE RINTAROU

Take comfort in my kisses. I love you.

YOU

(kissing back) I will gladly delight on those lips of yours, my handsome duke. I love you.

Exeunt

SCENE III. At the rose garden. Noontide.

Enter DUCHESS HERA, drinking tea in her usual chair with LADY CI’AN, YOUNG DEMIE, and the NURSE arriving to join her.

LADY CI’AN

O, for holy heaven’s sake! I will lose my mind. That lady—she makes dainty around our husband, then schemes to overthrow us. If she carries that child, he will deny our love! He will kick us out! He will abandon me! He will not honor Demie as a rightful heir! See to it that you, as noble as you are, will no longer be the duchess of this household!

Fie, fie! That vile, dishonorable lady!

DUCHESS HERA

Shut your mouth and have some tea. All this fervent speech makes you a lunatic. It is much ado about nothing.

LADY CI’AN

And much beshrew my manners and my pride! To label this atrocity as ‘nothing’ is what a true lunatic will say. Are you not afeard? Have you not conspired to do something about his third wife?

DUCHESS HERA

I have, and that is why I hold my head high.

DEMIE

(to Ci’an) Mama, will Papa have a baby with that bad lady?

DUCHESS HERA

No, he will not. Their child will not exist in this world.

LADY CI’AN

(in confusion) What, ho! What is this? Speak more.

DUCHESS HERA

(drinks from her teacup) I have order’d a maid to serve her morning tea every day with a drug used to induce an abortion. All you have to do is be an audience to her misery. No child will be announced when the physician arrives on Monday next.

LADY CI’AN and the NURSE both gasp, but did not react against the duchess’ plans.

NURSE

Pardon me, Your Grace. W-What if the duke learns about this conspiracy? Certain am I that he will not take this lightly.

DUCHESS HERA

Therefore, do you plan to tell him?

NURSE

(nervous) N-Nay, Your Grace.

LADY CI’AN

Keep your silence, nurse. If you want your family safe, you will not speak a word.

DUCHESS HERA

(ruminating) That mistress. I will do everything it takes to ensure that Rintarou will not make her his duchess.

Exeunt

SCENE IV. Out of the woods. Dusk.

Enter DUKE RINTAROU, CROWN PRINCE OSAMU, and EMPEROR ATSUMU riding their horses with the imperial order of knights following them behind. They have just finished game hunting as they maneuver their horses to the path leading back to the palace.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

‘Tis a shame that our Rin caught a wild bear while the beloved emperor only caught a deer.

EMPEROR ATSUMU

(defensive) You will not laugh when my arrow points at your neck.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

That is treason.

EMPEROR ATSUMU

—a bloody one I am willing to commit.

DUKE RINTAROU

(chuckling) This shedding of blood between kins; I shall resign from this conversation, then.

EMPEROR ATSUMU

Away so soon?

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

To be with his third wife, that is. The lady now bears him a child.

DUKE RINTAROU

Not ‘now’, but yet.

EMPEROR ATSUMU

Mother will be joyous.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

I would not say the same for Duchess Hera and Lady Ci’an. How does it fare with your other wives?

DUKE RINTAROU

They have not come near her since. There is no doubt that I am madly in love with my third wife, yet again, I must find a way to be equal to all of them.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

Do you suppose Ci’an did lie about the fountain incident? And what of Hera?

DUKE RINTAROU

It is in my desire to side with Y/N, but there is very little proof of her innocence. My other wives will call me biased, then give them a reason to spite her.

They reach the stables and get off their equines. The duke then stops at his tracks while the twins quickly notice that he is lost in deep thoughts.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

Stay in our company. Come and drink with us for a while.

DUKE RINTAROU

In another time. Fare thee well!

Exit DUKE RINTAROU

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

(to the emperor) Have you proposed the plan to our good friend?

EMPEROR ATSUMU

Of what and which?

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

Be not in jest, you ass. The war! The covert operation to aid the rebels! The gathering of military power! Does Rintarou know that you are preparing Faren to conquer Athain? He would be most privileged to join the imperial knights, if I must say.

EMPEROR ATSUMU

It does not concern him yet. This is privy information. He has no knowledge that the Crown Prince of Athain deem us traitors for taking an exiled woman.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

And what a favorable circumstance to incite war! We are a powerful nation with the disguise of having a neutral political stance. Father would be proud that the same empire who nearly wiped our land years ago, will now pay the price.

EMPEROR ATSUMU

As they must!

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

Well… Brother, methink’st Rin would be more than willing to slay Prince Fionn with his own hands. Do him fair and have him prepare for this battle. Surely, he will imbrue his sword with Fionn’s blood.

EMPEROR ATSUMU

An’ for such trivial reasons—no. I will have the rulers of that empire slain so I can rise up to power, whereas Rintarou will only do it for his curst wife.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

You are a despot. A tyrant. Villain, that is you.

EMPEROR ATSUMU

(chuckling) You have passionate words.

Ay, but these covert schemes are for the benefit of my nation. I will not, even in my death, allow Athain to impose superiority on my empire.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

Amen.

Exeunt

SCENE IV. In Hera’s bedchambers.

Enter DUCHESS HERA, sleeping on her bed with DUKE RINTAROU and a SERVANT speaking at the corner of the room. The duke came home to news that the duchess was poisoned during dinner, and thus, he quickly came to see her in her chambers.

SERVANT

The physician has given Her Grace an antidote. However, it is still alarming that she could have died due to the poison on her drink.

DUKE RINTAROU

Recount what happen’d while I was away.

SERVANT

Duchess Hera who so kindly offered to dine with Lady Ci’an and the other madam; Her Grace was civil and patient at wishing your third wife well. She proposed a new beginning and a peaceful household for the sake of the heir of this duchy, yet Lady Y/N thanked her none and told her that she will no longer be the duchess once the child is born. A threat, no less.

Then, that scheming maid of hers came in to hand out drinks, and only Lady Y/N did not take a sip. The duchess fainted shortly. We, along with Lady Ci’an, believe that your third wife and her maid did this to get back at Duchess Hera for ‘striking’ her.

DUKE RINTAROU

Do you suspect Y/N? This is not something she would do.

SERVANT

If I speak from my honest mind, Duke, she is not someone we know long enough to trust. She is unlike her usual self during your absence. The lady puts on a mask to fool us all. Please punish her accordingly.

DUKE RINTAROU

There is no need to punish her.

SERVANT

But that’s—!

DUKE RINTAROU

You may leave.

Exit SERVANT

DUKE RINTAROU

Hera, how stands your health? Does your maid speak true?

DUCHESS HERA

(coughing) You doubt my sickness, yet you believe that subtle, perjur’d, false maiden—

DUKE RINTAROU

She may be carrying my child, thus, I have to nurture her.

DUCHESS HERA

An’ I have been poison’d, then you must nurture me! I seek your companion and you deny me so. Now, I have fallen ill, and you only give me half of your husbandly concern. Is this what you call equal treatment?

The duchess coughs louder, prompting the duke to feel guilty for neglecting his first wife. He sits at the corner of her bed and releases a heavy sigh, caressing her cheek while lost in trance. It seems that he cannot sleep beside you tonight as Hera holds him captive with her current condition.

DUKE RINTAROU

Close your eyes and sleep. I will stay with you this eve.

DUCHESS HERA

That lady, will you punish her for inflicting harm on me? I am the duchess and your first wife. You should take my side and punish her.

DUKE RINTAROU

There is no proof, only baseless accusations.

DUCHESS HERA

What more proof canst you have?!

The duke closes his eyes, keeping his patience intact before he looks back at Hera with an impassive gaze.

DUKE RINTAROU

Right now, your health is my priority. Set your heart at rest. Speak not about my third wife.

DUCHESS HERA

Then… I have miss’d you. Do you not miss me?

DUKE RINTAROU

I have.

DUCHESS HERA

Will you not kiss me?

DUKE RINTAROU

I will.

He leans forward to indulge Hera with his sweet, affectionate kisses, pushing her back in bed, and keeping her under him. Soon, he pulls away and stares at her emerald eyes while her fingers make their way to unbutton his tunic.

DUCHESS HERA

(in a gentle voice) Make love to me, Rintarou.

DUKE RINTAROU

Hera, you request too much of me.

DUCHESS HERA

How! Do I request too much of my husband? You have marital obligations as I do.

DUKE RINTAROU

But it is pointless that we do this. You are barren.

DUCHESS HERA

(tearing up) You easily injure my heart as you like. Is that why you shun me away for another lady? I wish to make love not for a child, but for you as my husband that I cherish so dear. Am I not worthy?

The duke falls on his side of the bed and lets out a deep exhale. He rakes his fingers through his hair before Hera sits up and unlaces her corset. She then takes his hand and lets him cup her bosom.

DUCHESS HERA (CONT’D)

Show me that you care for me equally. Prove it to me.

DUKE RINTAROU

I have no obligation to prove anything. Get you a good night’s sleep. We can do this another time.

The duke pulls his hand away and covers her body with a blanket, while Hera grits her teeth as her husband turns his back on her.

Exeunt

SCENE V. In your bedchambers.

Enter YOU, IONE, DUKE RINTAROU, and a PHYSICIAN. The old man examines you after you experience continuous pain on your abdomen which later resulted to blood spilling down your leg. The servants all take care of cleaning you and putting you to bed, where the duke holds your hand and awaits for news about your worsening condition.

YOU

(shaking) My child, how is my child? Tell me I am in good health. T-Tell me nothing happen’d to the angel I carry. I do not understand—all’s well with me and so suddenly did I faint. I have pain in my stomach. How is that occurring? Prithee, g-give me an answer!

PHYSICIAN

My lady, I am afraid the news will not satisfy you.

DUKE RINTAROU

(taking a deep breath) My wife is already frenzied as is. Tell me, is it a miscarriage?

PHYSICIAN

Alas and alack. There was ne’er a child to begin with, it seems. Please forgive me for my misdiagnosis.

YOU

(shaking your head, hysterically) N-No, that cannot be… th-that is false. I am pregnant. I am with child. I am a mother. I know it by heart and have felt my angel inside me days ago! Do not mock my despair, I pray you. Do not scorn a mother who wants to welcome her child!

The duke and your maid try their best to hold you back, pacifying you from becoming delirious as you refuse to accept the news.

DUKE RINTAROU

Sweet, be calm.

YOU

(crying) I cannot be calm! My child—

DUKE RINTAROU

We will try again. Luck is not on our side.

YOU

(wailing) No, no. You do not understand. H-How can this be? Your Grace, I lost our child! I had a child who is now gone without my consent!

PHYSICIAN

(to the duke) It is normal for the lady to become distraught. Kindly attend to her mental state. Delusion occurs to those who have lengthen’d sadness. This is all due to her trauma from what happen’d in Athain.

DUKE RINTAROU

I will keep that in mind.

YOU

‘Delusion’? Come again?

Exit PHYSICIAN

DUKE RINTAROU

My love.

YOU

I plead you come away, Your Grace. I cannot face you.

DUKE RINTAROU

You need my comfort.

YOU

Th-This… Your unkind wives are behind this.

DUKE RINTAROU

Do not point fingers. No one is to blame.

YOU

(sobbing silently) They have conspired to kill my child! How they have done it; I know not, but certain I am that they are behind this! They do as much as frame me for poisoning the duchess, and now they murder’d an innocent child—

DUKE RINTAROU

They cannot do such a thing when no child exists. They have not been anywhere near you, even. Enough with this. Take a rest and calm your mind.

Exit DUKE RINTAROU

IONE

My lady, please do not cry or you will faint again.

YOU

G-Give leave awhile. I-I wish to be alone. My mind is not sound.

Exeunt

ACT VI

SCENE I. At the duke’s study.

Enter DUKE RINTAROU, reading a document and standing behind his desk, DUCHESS HERA and LADY CI’AN, who are walking side-by-side, come in to approach him. A week has passed ever since you have seen the duke as you refused to have him visit your chamber.

LADY CI’AN

Will you not join us for lunch?

DUKE RINTAROU

(shaking his head) Go on ahead without me.

DUCHESS HERA

Ci’an and I are worried about your health, my husband. Who is’t that hinders you?

LADY CI’AN

Who else? If all Lady Y/N will do is to cause trouble in this estate, then you do best and divorce her.

DUKE RINTAROU

You propose such a brainsickly thought. Divorce does not exist in Faren. It is why I am miserable with the rest of you.

LADY CI’AN

Then, some other where! You cannot stay married to a woman who is deranged. How dare she try to beguile you with her nonexistent child. How dare she poison Hera so brazenly!

DUCHESS HERA

(changing the topic) Speaking of which, I believe this is hers.

Hera shows an amethyst necklace from her pocket; the duke quickly snatches it and looks at his first wife suspiciously.

DUKE RINTAROU

How is this in your possession?

DUCHESS HERA

That mistress of yours threw it out of her window, then scream’d her ire towards you. Is she so vexed that you have been keeping your distance from her? I could never forgive slander against my husband nor myself, but to also see that lady discarding a costly gift from you—how preposterous! An insult to your pride and mine! She nearly kill’d me, do you forget?

LADY CI’AN

Shameful, officious woman. First, she cursed at Demie and pushed her into the fountain. Then, she ordered her maid to poison Hera’s drink. Now she scorns your presents! She values no one but herself. Open your eyes, Rintarou.

DUKE RINTAROU

(clutches the necklace with his fist) I know not what to believe. Why would she throw this away?

A LADY

(from outside) Keep away, young miss! I am not in such a state where my peace can be disturb’d!

A LITTLE GIRL

(from outside) You are a bad lady! You poisoned the duchess! You lied to Papa about having a baby!

A LADY

(from outside) Do not speak ill about my child! Get you gone—

The duke, the duchess, and Lady Ci’an walk out of the study to see you in a delirious state shoving Demie and sending her down the staircase. Lady Ci’an screams and runs after her child while you stand in utter shock as the duke and the duchess push you out of the way.

LADY CI’AN

(in distress) Demie!

DUKE RINTAROU

Y/N! Do you want to die?!

YOU

(panicking) Y-Your Grace, I-I… I wasn’t intending to… It was an accident. I did not push her—

DUKE RINTAROU

(enraged) I saw it with my eyes! You cannot deny it this time!

YOU

B-But I was merely trying to get her off of me, Duke. Please believe me. I-I will not harm a child! I had not even touched her b-before she slipped!

DUCHESS HERA

O, pish! Do not trust this shameless woman’s words. This is the second time it happen'd. You saw her shoving Demie away!

LADY CI’AN

(from below) Demie, speak to Mama. Demie! My poor girl, are you hurt?

The nurse and the servants gather around to check if the child is fine. Demie bursts into tears and clutches her injured leg, prompting the duke to call for a physician and to have Demie brought to her room at once.

DUCHESS HERA

Do you see? Do you see what snake skin she is shedding before your eyes, Rintarou?

YOU

I-It was an accident. Prithee, Your Grace. With my feeble arms, I barely put enough force onto her.

LADY CI’AN

(running up the stairs to attack you) You wicked, shameless courtesan! You witch! You scheming, lowly whore! You—I will send hell upon you! Come here and I will strike you dead!

The duke blocks her way and keeps you behind him, yelling at the butler and other attendants to drag the raging Lady Ci’an to her chamber as you stand trembling in fear. You notice how Duchess Hera soon leaves with a small smile on her face, satisfied with what will soon unfold between you and your husband.

DUKE RINTAROU

(to you, eyes cold) How can you deny this? How can you defend what I saw with my own eyes?

YOU

(quivering) Rin, you made an oath… you vow’d that you would believe my word. That you would see my intentions without prejudice. That I, as your third wife, will not have your eyes clouded with judgment.

In such a presence here to plead my thoughts, how does your heart change like the inconstant moon? Were the sweetness in your words true at all?

DUKE RINTAROU

The subject at hand is not about us nor our marriage. You deliberately struck a child. Have you no shame?

YOU

‘Struck’—again, that struck! It is not by my hands that made her fall down the stairs! How is’t that I am oft the villain in your eyes? Do you only take pity on me however you like? Are you really a husband?

DUKE RINTAROU

You question my truth when you have none to prove yours. Such feigning voices and such feigning love—enough of this! I saved your grace, I gave you my name, I spoke to you fairly, yet you give me nothing but dishonesty.

YOU

Beshrew me if I had done you wrong, b-but no act stains my conscience. Do not call me a liar when your wives are—

DUKE RINTAROU

They are worthier than you are. You are an obligation that needs to know her place. Live and die quietly as you wish.

YOU

(holding back your tears, turning away and feeling hopeless)

DUKE RINTAROU

My lady, do you dare turn your back on me?

YOU

Then, shall I stand in vain while all eyes in this estate wish for me to perish? When at your gaze did I deserve this hate? Forswear it, for any word that leaves my mouth will fall on deaf ears. You join in souls to bring me despair, therefore, set your heart at rest and pursue me not. I am not your wife, nor your lover, nor your sweet lady who ever so willingly gave you her heart. I am a liar, so hate me as you like.

Exit YOU

The duke sighs and presses his head against the wall, realizing his hurtful words and feeling an ache in his heart as the devastation on your face stays in his mind.

DUKE RINTAROU

(to himself) Fie, I did not mean to hurt my wife. It is my spleen that uttered those weightless words.

She is the love I have been yearning for, yet I have done her an irreparable damage. What of that makes me a good husband?

Exeunt

SCENE II. A room at the imperial palace.

Enter DUKE RINTAROU, EMPEROR ATSUMU, and EMPRESS DOWAGER.

EMPRESS DOWAGER

To be a husband to three wives is no easy duty. I take it, do you regret having wed Lady Y/N? Shall I become responsible for putting you in this position, my young duke?

DUKE RINTAROU

I do request for your counsel, Your Majesty the Empress. No part of me is regretful that I have fallen in love with my third wife.

EMPRESS DOWAGER

And yet?

DUKE RINTAROU

And yet, I cannot prove her innocence. My other wives; for years I have known them. For Y/N; I know only so little.

EMPRESS DOWAGER

Listen to the foolish words you speak so freely of. You have known Hera and Ci’an for years, therefore, you know what lengths they would take just to be rewarded by your love.

Lady Y/N simply exists in your home to live in peace. Peace that she cannot even achieve for you are failing to fulfill your duty to protect her.

DUKE RINTAROU

That, I…

EMPRESS DOWAGER

That, you must make up for. You are a worthy gentleman as she is a worthy lady. Let your love not be shallow.

EMPEROR ATSUMU

(to the duke) Why not make the fair lady your duchess?

DUKE RINTAROU

Nay, I cannot make her so. She will suffer at the hands of Hera.

EMPEROR ATSUMU

Then, pray you, my brother can make her a princess.

DUKE RINTAROU

Why, what, Hera?

EMPEROR ATSUMU

(sniggering) Lady Y/N.

DUKE RINTAROU

Do not jest. She is my love.

EMPRESS DOWAGER

Should the lady make her presence at to-morrow’s banquet—let her dress be most exquisite. I will introduce her to high society and give my blessing unto her. The nobles of Faren must know that she is more favorable than the lot of them, hence.

DUKE RINTAROU

(smiling) You take such a liking to my wife, Empress.

EMPRESS DOWAGER

If not I, there is one else that will. Even the man she calls her husband could not trust her.

The emperor teases the duke, who now feels ashamed for what he has done to his third wife. He then comes into a conclusion to start being more defensive on your behalf when it comes to his other wives.

DUKE RINTAROU

I have to woo her again—tell her that I mean nothing from my callous words, tell her that I still serve as her husband and she, as my wife. My love, my life, my soul. She needs to hear my honest excuse.

EMPEROR ATSUMU

Then, do your part before all’s too late.

Exeunt

SCENE III. At the garden. Dusk.

Enter YOU, meandering the rose garden while lamenting over the painful memories you have back in Athain. You suddenly remember the duke’s words and feel an extreme ache in your heart.

YOU

(to yourself) O, the look in his eyes. Hate and spite alike. I live in fear, waiting for the day my husband will feel the burden of my existence, and hither it begins.

But is it not I who ask’d to be treated in such a fashion? Is it not I who ask’d to live a quiet life alone? I can perish, and for aught he cares as I am merely a responsibility. A disgrace. A pitiful wife who cost him no benefit. Thus, must I run away and be far from this scornful household?

(sighing, sitting on a bench) If I am gone, no notice shall be required of me as my husband is no longer on my side.

Enter CROWN PRINCE OSAMU, with Argus on his shoulder.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

Lo, do you speak death to a bird again?

YOU

(getting up to curtsy) Y-Your Highness, whither wander you?

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

I do wander everywhere. I have come to a village nearby and supposed I can have a few exchanges with the duke. Is Rintarou in his study?

YOU

I fear I cannot answer, Your Imperial Highness. There is no one in this household I speak to except my maid.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

(takes your hand) Do you not seek His Grace?

YOU

His Grace does not seek me.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

You are his love—if this is jealousy that you speak. He sees you a wife better than Hera and Ci’an.

YOU

(pulling your hand away, avoiding his eyes) The duke loves his wives, and he loves not me. But I will not speak ill of him, as he no more shall see my face soon.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

My lady, what is this riddle?

YOU

Nothing more. Prince Osamu, if you can kindly do so, I do hope that you can extend my well wishes to Her Majesty, the Empress dowager. Her compassion will forever stay in my heart.

The crown prince begins to wonder why you seem like you are saying goodbye, but an approaching knight cuts him out of trance and takes his attention away from you.

KNIGHT

Your Imperial Highness, we must retreat before the sun sets. Her Majesty requires you to dine with her this eve.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

(nods to the knight and looks back at you) I shall see you at my mother’s banquet, my lady. You still owe me a dance.

Exit CROWN PRINCE OSAMU and his KNIGHT

Enter DUCHESS HERA

DUCHESS HERA

Your desire is to delight in the arms of a ruler, it seems. One, from the ever-so-handsome Prince Fionn of Athain. Now, from the valiant Prince Osamu of Faren. Is this not a brazen display of greed?

YOU

You call me a fraud when I speak to the duke. Now, you call me greedy when I speak to the prince. Do you hate it that the men you speak of are the same ones who approach’d me first?

DUCHESS HERA

(taken aback) You mannerless—

YOU

I need not show proper manners to the woman who murder’d my unborn child. Deny it however you like; you and Lady Ci’an are the true villains in this household.

DUCHESS HERA

Your conspiracies are laughable!

YOU

Then, laugh like a madwoman if you must.

Enter DUKE RINTAROU, walking towards you with apologetic eyes. He ignores the duchess and makes an effort to reach for you.

DUKE RINTAROU

Y/N… I need a word with you.

DUCHESS HERA

(seething) This woman disrespected me, Rintarou. Did you not hear?! A ‘villain’ she calls us; she profanes your true wives. Do not tolerate such ill-manners in your house and punish her!

YOU

(to the duke) 'To know my place and to die in silence as I am unworthy as they are'—I know what words you will speak of, therefore, Your Grace need not leave a reminder. Good night.

DUKE RINTAROU

My lady, that is not—

Exit YOU

DUCHESS HERA

Insolent mistress! Her behavior is appalling.

The duke walks past her, but stops after Hera pulls his arm.

DUCHESS HERA (CONT’D)

What is the matter, my husband?

DUKE RINTAROU

Leave me be. I have no desire to exchange words with you.

Exit DUKE RINTAROU

DUCHESS HERA

(enraged) Faugh! Is that wretched whore gaining his sympathy? Had I not done my best to steer him away from her? Yet hither he is, so pathetically docile around that… that insufferable woman.

Fine, alas. This leaves me with no choice but to send a message to Prince Fionn of her whereabouts. See to it that she will not be a threat to this marriage any longer.

Exeunt

SCENE IV. In your bedchambers. The next day.

Enter YOU and the HEAD SERVANT.

YOU

Head maid, I have call’d for Ione. Whither is she? I need to prepare a dress for the empress’ birthday banquet.

HEAD SERVANT

(menacing) That maid is attending to other duties. It is I who will serve you. His Grace order’d you to stay in your chamber this evening. He sees it fit that you do not attend the banquet.

YOU

Come again? B-But Her Majesty expects my presence—

HEAD SERVANT

The duke says you need not worry about the empress. Your appearance will bring him shame and it is better that you just listen to what he says. Take this as a warning.

YOU

(clenching the hem of your nightgown) What about Duchess Hera and Lady Ci’an?

HEAD SERVANT

They will be of attendance. A carriage has been assigned for them.

YOU

I need a word with the duke.

HEAD SERVANT

His Grace has set off to the imperial palace since high noon and will meet his wives at the banquet.

YOU

Then, shall I stay here in this estate as a neglected wife?

HEAD SERVANT

I take no pity in such. Please do not leave your chamber unannounced.

Exit HEAD SERVANT

YOU

(to yourself) You keep me a prisoner, then you better just punish me with death. Is it not right of me to spend a day without suffering? Is my ill-fate a spectacle to you all? Lost my mother and father, lost my child, lost my dignity. Is there anything more I can lose?

You walk towards the balcony and stare at the bright moon, hoping that you can find a way to escape this misery. The hopelessness soon drives you to decide on a hasty decision to sneak out of the balcony, bringing nothing but a cloak, a spare clothing, and some of your jewels as you plan on running away to a different town to live a humble life as a commoner.

YOU

(looking back at the estate from a distance, tearful) Fare thee well, Rin. Even if you shun me away, I have truly loved you. I wish you find peace with your ruthless wives.

KNIGHT 1

(from a distance) There she is!

KNIGHT 2

Seize the lady!

YOU

(panicking) Are those Rintarou’s knights after me?

You squint your eyes while trying to figure out where the knights are coming from, but as they arrive closer, you soon realize that the colors of their uniform reflect that of Athain’s national flag.

A MAN

Where are you headed to, my lady?

YOU

(turning around in horror) F-Fionn!

Enter CROWN PRINCE FIONN and his KNIGHTS. The tall blond man approaches you as his knights stand at every corner, evidently preparing to grab ahold of you.

YOU

Y-You—! How did you find me?

CROWN PRINCE FIONN

I hear the duchess of this estate wants you to vanish, my darling. I can never let her do you harm.

Shall we have her assassinated when you become my empress?

The crown prince lifts your chin with his finger and leans in for a kiss, but you swat his hand away and push him off.

YOU

Y-You are at my husband’s duchy. This is trespassing—

CROWN PRINCE FIONN

(to the knights) Take her away. Make sure no noise leaves her mouth.

Exeunt

SCENE V. At the grand ballroom. The imperial palace.

Enter DUKE RINTAROU, CROWN PRINCE OSAMU, some nobles, knights, and servants in the background. The duke spends the rest of the banquet looking around in hopes of spotting you among the throngs of noblemen and women, however, you are nowhere in sight.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

Are you certain the lady is arriving?

DUKE RINTAROU

I cannot answer that query myself. Shall I go along and check?

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

Well... Here come your wives.

Enter DUCHESS HERA and LADY CI’AN, who both curtsy to the crown prince, exchanging courteous greetings and well wishes, before they walk towards the duke.

DUCHESS HERA

My husband, you look fair.

LADY CI’AN

As expected, he is a debonair gentleman that can charm all the ladies in this banquet hall.

DUKE RINTAROU

(drinking from his glass) Spare me your praises. Where is Lady Y/N?

LADY CI’AN

I saw her not.

DUCHESS HERA

She is sick as I believe. Back at the estate where she stays; ‘away!’ she says. The servants have come to dress her, but the lady refuses to be groom’d.

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

Is that why she gave me her thanks when I saw her last eve? She speaks about extending her gratitude to mother.

DUCHESS HERA

Indeed, Your Highness, it seems so. The lady insists she does not go.

LADY CI’AN

(to the duke) You have your two wives, Your Grace. Do we leave you unsatisfied?

DUKE RINTAROU

Whether one wife or all three wives are absent, I will not stay still. Who is there attending to my love?

Enter EMPRESS DOWAGER

DUCHESS HERA

(curtsying) Your Imperial Majesty, may happy days be thine!

LADY CI’AN

(curtsying) Many happy returns of the day, Empress. We are honor’d to be within Your Majesty’s presence.

EMPRESS DOWAGER

(walking past the two ladies) Duke, come you away. Go and seek Lady Y/N. If she is sick as they say, then it is at this hour where she needs you most.

Worry not about the banquet. The lady must come first.

DUKE RINTAROU

Then, fare thee well, Your Majesty.

DUCHESS HERA

(panicking) N-No! I beg your pardon, however, Lady Y/N does not need to be—

EMPRESS DOWAGER

It is my order as the empress. Do you disobey me, Duchess Hera?

Silence and tension fills the room. The duke bows again while the empress dowager gives him permission to leave. The prince then notices how the two other wives look distraught as if they are not expecting the duke to leave right away.

Exit DUKE RINTAROU

CROWN PRINCE OSAMU

(mumbling to the empress after looking at the two wives) This is why I rather marry one woman.

Exeunt

to be continued….

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[obelians]

𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐇𝐖𝐀 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐓

a regularly edited list of all the manhwas i have read, am reading, dropped, or am planning to read. this serves as a post for me to keep up with my reading list as well as a recommendation guide for anyone looking to read more!

i usually prefer historical fantasy romance (esp villainess/strong FLs) so that’s what this list mostly consist of

last updated. 23 / 11 / 2021

* = faves

COMPLETED.

as you wish, prince

devil number 4 *

doctor elise *

ellin’s solhwa

empress from another world

la dolce vita di adelaide

light and shadow

miss not-so-sidekick

my fair footman

ooh la la

oh! holy!

secret alliance

something about us

survive as the hero’s wife

the abandoned empress

the evil lady’s hero *

the lady with a mask

the maid and the vampire

the reason why raeliana ended up at the duke’s mansion *

the villain’s savior

this witch of mine *

unholy blood

virtues of the villainess

what it takes to be a villainess

CURRENTLY READING + ALL CAUGHT UP.

action / supernatural

boss in school

doom breaker

eleceed *

god of blackfield

i’m a martial art villainess, but i’m the strongest

kill the hero

mercenary enrollment *

nano machine *

omniscient reader’s viewpoint *

return to player

solo leveling *

sss level suicide hunter *

surviving romance

the advanced player of the tutorial tower

the great mage returns after 4000 years *

true education *

weak hero

modern setting

a bittersweet couple

another’s love story

back to you

inso’s law *

mom, i’m sorry

my younger brother’s friend

odd girl out

positively yours *

three brothers

today living with you

to love your enemy

true beauty

when you’re targeted by the bully *

your smile is a trap

historical fantasy

actually, i was the real one

a false confession

asmodian’s contract

a stepmother’s märchen *

a red knight does not blindly follow money

a villain is a good match for a tyrant

beware of the villainess! *

charlotte has five disciples *

chitra *

daisy: how to become the duke’s fiancée

deadly vs romance

death is the only ending for the villainess

father i don’t want to get married

honey i’m going on a strike *

how to be a dark hero’s daughter

i am the male lead’s ex-girlfriend

i became the male lead’s adopted daughter

i became the male lead’s mother

i became the tyrant’s secretary

i became the wife of the male lead

i became the wife of the monstrous crown prince

i don’t love you anymore

i didn’t mean to seduce the male lead

if you touch my brother, you’re all dead

i’ll be the matriarch in this life *

i’ll just live on as a villainess *

i’m only a stepmother, but my daughter is just so cute!

i’m stanning the prince *

i’m the ex-girlfriend of a soldier

into the light once again

i raised the beast well

i raised my childhood friend into a tyrant

is it a fortune or is it a woe?

i stole the male lead’s first night

i tamed a tyrant and ran away

it looks like i’ve fallen into the world of a reverse harem game

i will change the genre

kill the villainess

lamia orphe is dead

matchmaking baby princess

men of the harem

my husband hides his beauty *

my lord, the wolf queen

my sister picked up the male lead

my three tyrant brothers

please throw me away

pure white elizabeth

remarried empress

revenge wedding

roxana *

say ah, the golden spoon is entering

secret lady *

seduce the villain’s father

shadow queen

the black haired princess

the duchess with an empty soul

the emperor reverses time

the golden haired elementalist

the great wish

the lady and the beast

the lady wants to rest

the newlywed life of a witch and a dragon

the princess’ double life

the princess imprints a traitor *

the princess is evil

the princess pretends to be crazy

the stereotypical life of a reincarnated lady

the strongest characters in the world are obsessed with me

the villainess is a marionette *

the villainess lives twice

the villainess needs a tyrant

the villainess reverses the hourglass

the way that knight lives as a lady

the witch and the bull

this is an obvious fraudulent marriage

today the villainess has fun again

under the oak tree

untouchable lady *

villainess maker

what it means to be you

when the villainess loves

why are you doing this duke?

who made me a princess

youngest princess *

your throne *

DROPPED PERMANENTLY / TEMPORARILY.

action / supernatural / non-romance

max level returner

player who can’t level up

second life ranker

tomb raider king

romance

am i the daughter?

anyone can become a villainess

a way to protect the lovable you

beatrice

beware of the brothers

elskar

everything was a mistake

i became the ugly lady

i became the villain’s wife

i bid you adieu

i have no health

i love yoo

please don’t eat me

she’s hopeless

taming the lady

the archmage’s daughter

the detective of muiella

the monster duchess and contract princess

the princess’ spaceship

the tyrant’s first love

the tyrant’s only perfumer

the younger lead fell for me before the destruction

they say i was born a king’s daughter

yeonwoo’s innocence

your majesty, please don’t kill me again

ON MY READING LIST.

a queen’s law of survival

a witch’s hopeless wish

baby empress

black winter

circumstances of switching bodies

extras don’t want to be overly obsessed

finding camellia

i became the wife of a tragedy’s main lead

i met the male lead in prison

lout of the count’s family

one pair lady

saving the villain who was abandoned by the female lead

the lady’s law of survival

the twin siblings’ new life

the tyrant’s guardian is an evil witch

the villainess wears an idiot’s mask

valentine’s kiss

[starlit-dreaming]

Aside from WMMAP, what other manhwas do you enjoy??

Hmmm,,,, I have a lot of favourite manhua/manga/manhwas, but my favourite manhwa tends to be the transmigration/time travel isekai-types like wmmap. i'll just recommend my current top 5 (without wmmap) and mention a couple of others

Current Top 5 (w/o WMMAP)

5. Lady Baby (time travel) 4. If You Touch My Brother, You're All Dead (transmigration + time travel) 3. I Raised Cinderella Preciously (transmigration) 2. I'll Be The Matriarch In This Life (time travel) 1. Beware of the Villainess! (transmigration)

.

Transmigration - Honorary Mentions

• The Garden of Red Flowers • Sincerely: I Became a Duke’s Maid • The Young Lady I Served Became a Young Master • Fiancée's Observation Log of the Self-proclaimed Villainess • Originally A Lady With One Line • I'll Become a Villainess That Will Go Down in History • The Reason Why Raeliana Ended up at the Duke's Mansion • The Way to Protect the Female Lead’s Older Brother (WARNING)

.

Time Travel - Honorary Mentions

• Priscilla’s Marriage Request • Angelic Lady • Untouchable Lady • A Red Knight Does Not Blindly Follow Money • A Stepmother's Märchen • Daisy: How to Become the Duke's Fiancée • The Villainess Reverses the Hourglass

.

if you're curious about my honorary mentions/why it's on there, then feel free to ask me and i'll go over it like i will be for my current top 5! also, there’s a lot more that i could’ve mentioned, but i kinda just wanted to end my rambles off at this point

below the "keep reading" will be a few lil bits of opinion that i hold for the manhwa featuring 2 pictures (excluding honorary mentions)

5. Lady Baby

cute art style and the gorgeous usage of colours and lighting, Calliope went back in time to save her family from ruin. i absolutely adore how positive and cute her relationship is with her family -- they're all quite overprotective of her and the only thing i wish would change is my desire to pinch her cheeks tbh

a fair warning for this series is that... it takes a long time until Lippe grows up. she's a baby and a small child for the major part of the series, and she's finally 12 y/o by ch103. I almost gave up at ch50, if I wasn't so persistently in love with the art style and how cute everyone is

also

@ Harrison "Hal" Alpinus i'm still vERY MUCH SINGLE

----------------

4. If You Touch My Brother, You're All Dead

a time travel isekai that’s by far the craziest, most beautiful work of art i’ve laid eyes on. it’s essentially manhwa on crack, istg. there’s a lot of wacky shit that goes down, and its all tied to Asterion, Rosalette’s younger brother. the pace of the manhwa is relatively fast, but it works well with its unique art style and given the characters and their personalities.

----------------

3. I Raised Cinderella Preciously aka A Wicked Tale of Cinderella's Stepmom

another transmigration type of isekai!

again, gorgeous art style, with a protagonist who became a single mother of three due to the recent death of her 2nd husband (to sum it up, she's almost like the stepmother of cinderella). while her daughters aren't "conventionally pretty" (by webtoon standards, at least), she's doing surprisingly well as a mother in an old-fashioned noble society and she's always thinking about her daughters first! one of the best isekai moms of the year

going into this series at first, i didn't really know what to expect. i thought "is the prince going to be the ML? that would be weird" -- thankfully my prayers have been heard, and the ML is not the prince! it's also refreshing to see stepsisters actually getting along so well in a webtoon, though it kind of feels a bit glossed over in the fact that prior to the transmigration, "cinderella" was treated poorly for a few months

((i would 100% propose to mildred vans i love her))

----------------

2. I'll Be The Matriarch In This Life

a time travel type of isekai

another manhwa with gorgeous artwork and beautiful usage of colours -- the design aspect has me tearing up down to even the smallest of details. it's renaissance-type fashion, with characters you'll either love or hate. romance isn't the main focus, so patience will be needed if you're solely intent on romantic relationships

the prologue shows a glimpse of the future and how it'll turn out for Tia, but the manhwa primarily focuses on Tia's intellect and how she utilizes her knowledge of future events. plus her relationship with her father, gallahan is just so wholesome and adorable. there's just so much i could go on about

i'm very excited to see how Florentia/Firentia grows into the Matriarch of her family, even if i'm high-key interested in seeing her grown up ^^

((also, bless you underrawr and whoever else contributed to the gallahan fanclub corner -- i firmly support you, my dudes))

----------------

1. Beware of the Villainess!

by far one of my most favorite villainess transmigration isekai, with gorgeous lines and clear details and simple but gorgeously utilized shading. Melissa has 100% snatched my heart as she shamelessly gives the guys the beat down of the century whilst also snatching a hunk of her own and whisking the novel’s femc off her feet

while i’m a firm ninelissa shipper, i definitely ship yurilissa. yulissa??? idk i think im just making up ship names at this point. but now i’m definitely lowkey interested in the potential of yona/yuri but alas

the manhwa’s both funny and lovely, and i wholeheartedly enjoy this series a ton. i don’t think there’s a lot for me to say -- melissa’s a strong FL and she won’t hesitate to fight when push comes to shove

also, it has meme references

[lilikags]

Daisy: How to Become the Duke's Fiancée Matching Icons!

Art does not belong to me.

[isekaiconnoisseur]

How to Become the Duke's Fiancé

Sweet, timid Daisy meets a tragic end after being betrayed by the man she loves. When she is given a second chance at life, she vows not to repeat the same mistakes of the past! The only problem is that she must pay off her father’s gambling debt to Kilian, an aristocrat with a terrifying reputation. One option will take her 60 years, and the other, just three... but it involves a contract marriage to Kilian, who must be three years married in order to inherit the title of duke. While Daisy has sworn off men, the conditions of the offer are too good to pass up. She will be paid a generous amount of money at the end of the contract and also be guaranteed a swift divorce. Is she making a mistake by putting her trust in another man? Or will this deal give her the wings she needs to fly?

[fendaira]

[lovelycoralmentality]

Manhwa

Who made me a princess -> chapter 89

Devil wants to hug -> chapter 49

To Be or Not to Be -> Chapter 63

The reason Why Raeliana Ended up at the Duke’s Mansion -> chapter 147 (fin)

Shadow queen -> chapter 38

The justice of villainous woman -> chapter 113

Silent lover -> chapter 19

The Villainess reverses the hourglass -> chapter 45

Charlotte Has Five Disciples -> chapter 43

The grandmaster of demonic cultivation -> chapter 175

Beware of the villainess -> chapter 58

I became the villain's mother -> chapter 36

The Twin Siblings’ New Life -> chapter 39

Death Is The Only Ending For The Villainess -> chapter 44

Actually, I Was the Real One -> chapter 32

Am I the daughter? -> chapter 47

I Want to Be You, Just For A Day -> chapter 44

Please Throw Me Away -> chapter 40

The Villainess Lives Twice -> Chapter 38

Youngest Princess -> chapter 44

Daughter of the Emperor -> chapter 207

Virtues of the Villainess -> Chapter 34

When the Villainess Loves -> Chapter 38

saving the Villain Who was Abandoned by the Female Lead -> chapter 21

The Antagonist's Pet ( The Pet of the Villainess ) -> Chapter 56

The Monster Duchess and Contract Princess Manhwa -> Chapter 74

The Newly-wed Life Of A Witch and A Dragon -> Chapter 17

My Husband Hides His Beauty -> chapter 32

I'm the Ex-Girlfriend of a Soldier -> Chapter 21

This Girl is a Little Wild -> Chapter 50

 I don't want to be Empress! -> Chapter 58

This Villainess Wants a Divorce! / survive as the hero's wife-> Chapter 87

A Villain Is A Good Match For A Tyrant -> Chapter 38

The Garden of Red Flowers -> Chapter 28

Is It a Fortune or Is It a Woe? -> Chapter 30

The Young Lady I Served Became a Young Master -> Chapter 23

Seduce the Villain's Father -> Chapter 43

Blinded by the Setting Sun -> Chapter 21

The Duchess with an Empty Soul -> Chapter 63

Doctor Elise: The Royal Lady with the Lamp -> Chapter 126

I Raised Cinderella Preciously -> Chapter 37

Once more -> Chapter 27.5

Your Majesty, Please Don't Kill Me Again -> Chapter 23

My Sister Picked Up the Male Lead -> Chapter 37

Beware of the Brothers! -> Chapter 45

the lady and the beast -> chapter 39

Everything was a Mistake -> Chapter 32

A false confession -> Chapter 45

Elskar -> Chapter 32

The Detective Of Muiella -> Chapter 104

This Is An Obvious Fraudulent Marriage - Chapter 59

Daisy: How to Become the Duke’s Fiancée - Chapter 35

I Became the Ugly Lady -> Chapter 5

The Lady's Butler - Chapter 25

Royal Shop of Young Lady - Chapter 34

Choose Your Real Daddy Tyrant - Chapter 11

The Sunny Lead was Raised as the Villainess - Chapter 1

Princess is a Bloodthirsty Surgeon - Chapter 58

Guide to a Male God Chasing his Wife - Chapter 21

Princess Tomboy & Prince Grumpy - Chapter 90

Living As The Emperor's Fiancé -> Chapter 28

The Foodie Next Door - Chapter 47

I Raised the Beast Well - Chapter 14

The villianous queen wants to level up - Chapter 0

National School Prince Is A Girl -> Chapter 83

Wendy the Florist -> Vol. 2 Ch. 1

What Kind of Empress is This? - Chapter 42

Revenge Wedding -> Chapter 36

I Gave Birth To A Murderer’s Child -> chapter 15

The Black Haired Princess - Chapter 39

Perfect Adaptation Chapter 2

Uniquely You - Chapter 11

Too Close - Chapter 88

Limited Time Princess - Chapter 27

She's my type - chapter 31

Lady Beast - Chapter 77

Read The Tyrant Falls In Love (Can Can) -> Chapter 56 

Mismatched Love - Chapter 15

Happy Ending for the Time-Limited Villainess - Chapter 9

I'll Do That Marriage - Chapter 21

Don't Provoke The Crazy, Dumb and Villainous Consort - Chapter 23

The Daughter of the Elemental King - Chapter 45

The Golden Haired Elementalist - Chapter 38

I Became the Hero's Mom - Chapter 26

Beatrice - Chapter 49

The Stereotypical Life of a Reincarnated Lady - Chapter 51

Cheerful Countess Sisters - Chapter 24

It Looks Like I've Fallen into the World of a Reverse Harem Game - Chapter 32

I'm Stanning The Prince -> Chapter 42

Flowers Dance and Wind Sings -> Chapter 25

The Tyrant’s Guardian is an Evil Witch -> Chapter 23

The Goal is to Become a Gold Spoon so I need to be Completely Invulnerable - Chapter 27

The Villain's Savior - Chapter 74

The Princess in the Dumpster - Chapter 31

I Gave Birth to the Tyrant's Child -> Chapter 10

I'm the Male Lead's Female Friend -> Chapter 12

Villainess Maker -> Chapter 11

I Became a Maid in a TL Novel -> Chapter 36

I tamed the wild duke -> Chapter 4.1

The Viridescent Crown -> Chapter 33

A Night With The Emperor -> Chapter 7

The Villain Discovered My Identity -> Chapter 39

I Tamed a Tyrant and Ran Away -> Chapter 21

Charming and the Beast -> Chapter 4

The Emperor's Companion -> Chapter 72

I Saved The Cursed Duke -> Chapter 5

The King’s Beloved Daughter -> Chapter 6

The Precious Sister of the Villainous Grand Duke -> Chapter 11

The Way to Protect the Female Lead's Older Brother -> Chapter 20

Undercover Empress -> Chapter 35

The Flower That Was Bloomed By A Cloud -> Chapter 27

The Villainess Is a Marionette -> Chapter 21

Obey me -> Chapter 8

Stop Bothering Me, Emperor! -> Chapter 3

I'm a Martial Art Villainess but I'm the Strongest! -> Chapter 27

Angelic Lady -> Chapter 22

I'll Become the Tyrant's Tutor -> Chapter 6

Truly Refuse to Be a Witch -> Chapter 3

Father, I Don’t Want to Get Married! -> Chapter 15

I’ll Just Live on as a Villainess -> Chapter 3

Crimson Karma -> Chapter 82

The Fake Princess' OP Bunny -> Chapter 6

Reminiscence adonis -> Chapter 129

Not Just Anyone Can Become a Villainess -> Chapter 12

Lady Baby -> Chapter 125