During the Yongxi era of the Dasheng dynasty, the new emperor has only recently ascended the throne. On the surface, the realm is peaceful, but beneath it, undercurrents are rising. Factional strife is beginning to emerge at court, while local officials are showing signs of corruption. Meanwhile, folk magic and feudal superstition mingle among the people, and Dasheng culture blends with that of distant lands, giving rise to all manner of strange tales in the pleasure quarters and taverns. Thus begins the legendary story of an investigation team led by Chu Linghe, Vice Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, and Ji Shuheng, Vice Minister of Justice. Together, they solve a series of eerie, baffling cases and gradually uncover a shocking secret that threatens the very foundations of the realm.