In the final years of the Kangxi reign, the Liu family of Jiangning was once a celebrated brocade-making house, renowned throughout the region. Their embroidery featured exquisite stitching and elegant patterns, and was made exclusively for the imperial court and officials’ families. The family head, Liu Hetang, was a kind and generous man with consummate skill. He had a son and a daughter: his eldest, Liu Yichen, was well versed in poetry and books, while his youngest, Liu Ruoli, was clever and graceful, with a gift for designing brocade patterns. The family lived in harmony, and the sound of looms and laughter often filled their home. The household was prosperous and thriving.
But fate can change in an instant. Overnight, the Liu family was swept into an inexplicable disaster. First, a fire mysteriously broke out in their weaving workshop, reducing precious silk and unfinished embroidered brocade to ashes. Soon after, Liu Hetang left to negotiate a business deal and never returned. When he was found, he was gravely wounded and near death. After being brought home, he managed only a few faltering words: “Be careful... They’re plotting...” Then he passed away. With the family’s pillar gone, its members split into factions over the inheritance. Creditors came knocking one after another, and the once-great household fell into ruin in the blink of an eye. The servants all left, and the siblings Liu Yichen and Liu Ruoli could only stay among the crumbling walls, enduring the curious stares of those around them.
