[Qing Dynasty transmigration + Fourth Prince + the Nine Dragons' Succession Struggle + harem life + Kangxi + intense romantic tension + heroine's growth + love that blossoms over time]
When Qiao Yue opens her eyes, she has become an orphan of the Tongjia clan during the Kangxi reign.
The bloody struggle among the Nine Dragons has yet to begin. The Fourth Prince is still a cold-faced youth, while the Eighth Prince remains a gentle gentleman.
To stay clear of the harem's intrigues, she volunteers to serve as a palace maid at Kangxi's side.
The history books say nothing of her. She knows she is the most fragile sacrificial pawn in this grand epic.
The Eighth Prince's caring kindness is like a spring breeze, but she dares not grow attached. The Fourth Prince's forceful advances are like a raging fire, and all she can do is retreat step by step.
Everyone says that serving the Emperor is a glorious position, but all she sees is the abyss beneath her feet.
Rather than become a treasure fought over by the Nine Dragons, she'd rather be the flower no one can pluck, the one they can never have.
Qiao Yue: I just want to keep my head down and do my palace job.
Kangxi: This girl is clever and loyal. She could be useful. Keep her by my side.
Eighth Prince: Yue'er, if you wish, I can protect you and give you a peaceful life.
Fourth Prince: Peaceful? Where in this palace is safe except by my side? Your heart and your life should both belong to me.
[Clear-headed career-minded heroine vs. forceful, restrained Fourth Prince and gentle, devoted Eighth Prince]
Reader advisory: The heroine is focused on staying alive and building her career. The romantic tension is intense, but she is no lovesick fool. The ending is not the traditional palace-intrigue-and-marriage kind.
Isn't this Ruoxi, but her identity has been changed to Tong Jia's daughter. The plot hasn't changed much. I still go back and forth with all my brothers.