Shengjing, the capital of the Great Zhou, was prosperous in an age of peace. With centuries of stable foundations and a powerful nation, the Great Zhou had subdued the surrounding kingdoms, which came each year to pay tribute. Princes from smaller states were sent to the capital as hostages, and every year the Nanyin tribes offered slaves as tribute. The empire’s strength was unmatched. But by the time the throne passed to Emperor Jing, the Great Zhou had stood for centuries. Though it appeared magnificent and prosperous, with treasures beyond count, its borderlands were in fact plagued by constant warfare. Jing was itching to strike, secretly training its troops for years and waiting for the right moment to counterattack. The people of Nanling no longer wished to remain slaves. They had secretly raised an army of assassins within Shengjing, ready to act. Yet the capital remained a picture of peace and prosperity. No one sensed the slightest danger, and the court was still lost in a drunken dream of peace, convinced of the empire’s strength and its mighty army. Ten years earlier, a hostage sent by Jing had died in a fire at the Peony Garden. No one wanted to reopen the scandal, and the story begins with that case. Unusual murders began to occur among Shengjing’s noble families and high officials, and every one of them eventually pointed back to the hostage case from that year.
The writing style of this book is fascinating and delicate, making me feel like I am immersed in the prosperity of Shengjing in the Great Zhou Dynasty. The story begins with a proton case, which is full of suspense and makes people want to find out. Moreover, the description of the snow scene in the book is very vivid, which reminded me of my own experience in the snow. I think this book is worth reading and recommend it to everyone!