Su Yao, the daughter of a wealthy Jiangnan merchant in the Great Chu dynasty, is forced to enter the palace, where every step is fraught with danger and political intrigue. From an innocent, kindhearted girl when she first arrives to a woman who grows stronger and fights back after enduring schemes and setbacks, she survives the treacherous inner court through her intelligence and courage. She becomes pregnant, falls out of favor, and wins favor again, eventually becoming mistress of the palace. Even after the new emperor ascends the throne, she continues to wield influence.
