A suspiciously murdered woman is found at Wanchunting Pavilion on Jingshan Hill. The discovery causes the old emperor’s chronic illness to relapse, leaving him at death’s door and forcing him to urgently choose an heir. The First and Second Princes each scramble to recruit soldiers and win people over. An old night watchman finds two abandoned infants at the Bell and Drum Towers. He keeps the boy, Xiao Zhong, and sends the girl, Xiao Gu, to be raised by someone else. Xiao Zhong joins the First Prince’s faction, distinguishes himself repeatedly, and earns his deep trust. Unable to win Xiao Zhong over, the Second Prince wants him dead and resorts to a scheme to sow discord. Xiao Gu later changes her name to Gu Xian’er and becomes the top courtesan. The old emperor puts his sons to the test, arranging three contests at the Bell and Drum Towers, Yongding Gate, and Zhengyang Gate. The First and Second Princes each win one. Throughout the struggle for the throne, a series of brutal murders unfolds, making the political conflict all the more mysterious. What is the connection between the old emperor and the dead woman? Will the underworld gangs’ conspiracy succeed? What is the truth behind Xiao Zhong and Xiao Gu’s origins? And who will ultimately claim the reins of power at court? The answers to all these questions will finally be revealed in the showdown at Zhengyang Gate!
