Any historical C-dramas with black-bellied/cunning female leads?

Hello! I'm new to dramas, especially Chinese ones. So far, the ones I've seen have the impulsive, "tomboy" female leads or/and are quite naive. Those types of characters are fine sometimes but right now, I'd really love to see someone who just pretends to be naive but is actually cunning, or elegant and cunning. They know how to play by the rules and know when to go against them, instead of constantly rebelling and facing things head-on.

I'm also fine with male leads who are black-bellied but mainly, I'm finding for female leads who are or at least sensible in a historic time period (cuz I love their fashion and architecture lol). Would really appreciate your recommendations!

Omg, thank you so much for the long list!! And I'm sorry for the late reply!

I think I've yet to see a more cunning woman than the eldest sister in Legend of Dugu. Worth watching only for the chemistry between she and the evil General. Fire!

I'm on a Autum Ballad right now and FL here, even if her decisions are not always the best,  is def  cunning, bold  and not above using  (at the very least) questionable means (like deception, seduction) to reach her goals and take care of herself. She is also unapologetic for  putting her own needs and  interests first .  I admit I like her pretty well and her chemistry with ML is on fire (he is also   interesting).  The drama is easy to watch, not boring, even if the plot is often a streach. 

Nirvana in Fire doesn't really have FL (both leads are male) but one of the main female characters is  also very smart and  cunning o albeit  100 % not evil or bad. It's a pure pleasure to watch her delicately yet without a fault putting  everyone where she wants them . And of course the ML is the king of all king s in "cunning" category.

I'm not sure if you wanted only costume dramas but Win the Future  (modern business drama) also  has  a very cunning (and ruthless) FL. Actually both FL and ML  are very similar in that regard  and others - which  plays a big part in difficulties in their relationship. I watched it for leading  actors (Xin Zhi Lei and Chen Kun) but truthfully enjoyed both their characters 

The untamed

 Moonlight:

The untamed

I've had it on hold and forgot about getting back to it again. Thank you! I'll watch it with my sibling again when I get the chance.