The Embroiderer: The Story of Shen Qing

Shen Qing, the daughter of a merchant family, is forced to enter the palace as a maid after her family is convicted of a crime. Thanks to her intelligence, she establishes herself in the Palace Bureau of Attendants and unexpectedly catches the attention of Crown Prince Xiao Jingyan. After he ascends the throne, Shen Qing is exceptionally promoted to the rank of Talented Lady, earning the jealousy of the harem. She turns retreat into a strategic advantage to defuse the crisis and display her extraordinary wit.

Shen Qing discovers the truth behind the Empress Dowager's poisoning and is drawn into the power struggles between the court and the harem. Her bond with the emperor deepens, but this also brings more open and covert attacks.