In this historical tale of war and political intrigue, an intense relationship burns between the son of an infamous traitor and the vengeful nobleman who despises him…at first. Shen Zechuan is the eighth son of the traitorous Prince of Jianxing, a man who doomed his cities and people to destruction at the hands of the foreign enemy. As the only surviving member of his reviled line, Shen Zechuan is dragged to the capital in chains. He bears the hatred of the nation, but no one’s hate burns hotter than that of Xiao Chiye, the youngest son of the powerful Prince of Libei. Xiao Chiye would love nothing more than to see Shen Zechuan dead–but against all odds, he clings to life. Rather than succumb to his family’s disgrace, he becomes a thorn in Xiao Chiye’s side, clawing his way into the cutthroat political world of the capital. Yet as these two bitter enemies beat against the bonds of their fate, they find themselves kindred spirits, unlikely allies…and perhaps something more.

During the Xiande period of the Great Zhou Dynasty, Lord Shen Wei of Jianxing was defeated at the Chashi River in the northeast, which nearly resulted in the loss of six central provinces. His son Shen Zechuan was taken to the capital in disgrace, despised as the son of a loser. Xiao Chiye, the youngest son of the Lord of Libei, rushed to the capital at the news, and nearly beat Shen Zechuan to death. However, the weak-looking Shen Zechuan fought back fiercely, and even bit Xiao Chiye until he bled. It was the start of a fierce feud between the two. Unexpectedly, during their endless conflict, they accidentally discover the real reason for Shen Wei's defeat. (Source: Bilibili, translated)

The Six Prefectures of Zhongbo were ceded away in surrender to the external enemies, and Shen Zechuan was taken into custody in the capital, reduced to a drowning dog loathed and condemned by all. Xiao Chiye followed the scent of the furor and made his way over. But instead of setting others on him, he kicked Shen Zechuan with his very own leg which rendered the latter an invalid. Who would expect this invalid to turn around and bite him in a counterattack until he was all drenched in blood? That was the start of an epic feud between both men who tear at each other every time they come face-to-face with one another. ***Notes:** The old artwork of manhua version of novel [Ballad of Sword and Wine](https://www.mangaupdates.com/series/fp8fobf/ballad-of-sword-and-wine-novel).*