Manipulative characters define stories where the sharpest weapon isn't a sword, but a brilliant, calculating mind. In the world of webnovels, these protagonists—or their most dangerous rivals—excel at psychological warfare, orchestrating elaborate schemes to achieve their goals. Whether it is a villainess navigating a treacherous imperial court or a regressor playing the long game to dismantle a sect, these narratives prioritize strategy over brute force. Readers are drawn to the high-stakes political intrigue and the sheer satisfaction of seeing a complex plan come to fruition. Expect thrilling tropes like the 'hidden boss' persona, tactical betrayals, and the ultimate scheming protagonist who stays ten steps ahead of everyone else. If you crave stories where every conversation is a chess match and every alliance is a tool, this category offers the most intellectually stimulating reads in fantasy and cultivation.
