Protagonist: Zhao Zhile, a modern cosmetics livestream salesperson. Slick, marketing-savvy, knowledgeable about chemistry and botany, and skilled at reading people. After he transmigrates, he initially wins favor with his good looks, silver tongue, and clever inventions, then gradually grows into a shrewd, tactful, principled power broker.
Tone and style: The political intrigue is weighty, but the narrative voice is light and humorous, especially in the protagonist's inner monologue and some dialogue. Historical details should be carefully researched, and modern ideas such as gender equality, commercial thinking, and mutually beneficial cooperation should be woven in naturally, showing the clash and blending of ancient wisdom and a modern perspective without feeling forced.
Historical foundations: The story should be firmly based on works such as the Old Book of Tang, the New Book of Tang, and Zizhi Tongjian. Major events, figures, and timelines should adhere as closely as possible to the historical record, including the rule of cruel officials, Di Renjie's appointment as chancellor, the Shenlong Coup, and foreign wars. The personalities and deeds of Wu Zetian, Princess Taiping, Di Renjie, Shangguan Wan'er, Wu Sansi, the Zhang brothers, Lai Junchen, and others should be rooted in historical fact.
Romantic relationships: His role as a retainer is the starting point, but relationships should develop gradually and for clear reasons. The central relationship is with Princess Taiping, evolving from favor to mutual exploitation and then into a complex emotional dependence and power struggle. His relationships with other women, such as Shangguan Wan'er, foreign princesses or noblewomen, and shepherdesses, may take many forms: fleeting affairs, political marriages, kindred spirits, or alliances of convenience. Avoid making him promiscuous; focus instead on human warmth and coldness, and cultural clashes.
