The Great Xia Clans Hold All the Power

Dynasties change as quickly as flowing water, but the powerful clans and great houses remain as immovable as stone.

Hereditary titles have created a world of difference between nobles and commoners.

Some are born into disasters and hardship, struggling just to survive. Others are born at the very top of the pyramid.

The powerful clans of Great Xia hold the four occupations of scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants in their hands, and control the nation's public discourse.

Take the Li family, the most powerful clan in the imperial family. They have always relied on marriage alliances, official appointments, and rewards to win over the great houses, making all manner of promises.

Xiao Yan was gravely wounded in a major battle. His subordinates brought him back, and the army physicians worked frantically to save him. He only just managed to survive.

When Princess An Ning, who had been betrothed to Xiao Yan since childhood, heard the news, she defied the imperial edict and rushed off to visit him.