The title of the book "Wanli Rust" has a profound meaning: "Wanli" points to that specific era that turned from prosperity to decline, while "rust" symbolizes the decay of the empire starting from within, just like metal being corroded bit by bit and eventually collapsing.
The story takes place in the twenty-third year of Wanli, a time when the storm is about to come. The emperor was deep in the inner palace, party strife was emerging, and a secret that could shake the country - the "Longqing Secret Case" suddenly reappeared after being buried in dust for thirty years. The unexpected death of a young official is like a pebble thrown into a stagnant pool. Under the ripples, there are shocking secrets about the fate of the empire.
Through the perspectives of the protagonists Shao Wenyuan, an idealistic scholar, and Feng Yuluo, a woman who bears a family blood feud, the novel will lead readers deep into the fabric of the Ming Empire, from the marketplace to the court and palace, and jointly uncover layers of truth concealed by power and time.
