beta
i'm game even though there are a lot of loose ends that aren't clear right now, especially from her first life. but now that we're in the capital, things are moving in the direction for answers. I imagine the holes in this story will become clearer including the development of romance. I appreciate the story so far. I consider the first part of this story was to establish herself as lord and master of the castle while also ensuring Dou's safety and future. Romance was just meant to be a seedling for the first arc while she also changes towards Dou but also learning to trust those she can call and have proven are her people. Being in the capital now is the second arc and we are seeing how she truly maneuvers through political intrigue; not to mention her growing feelings for the prince. Also I do hope that Dou will develop more through this arc. There is a bit too much dependency still on her even though it is because of her mothering.
glad that it ended well but i think the way it ended was weird because it felt like it was trying to avoid ending by including other characters' stories. Like the part with Billy and Raphee was cute but lowkey sort of draggy. Then the side story itself is pretty heartbreaking because ilyana was such a bright and confident loving child. Seeing it all fall apart instead of the parents communicating and respecting that she should know the truth, it hurts even though I know it was "necesssary" for the story.
Anyway, overall an okay-ish story. I'm glad that the dark plains people basically had a higher purpose and ability compared to the empire and the narrative shifts to them being the good and holy.
Also i didn't expect this to be so PG because the tag is josei which allows for mature content. the attraction and tension they had for each other def would have led to some hard to control and hold back major petting; especially with how yandere the emperor is.