Reborn as a discarded concubine, Jiang Ning treats the Cold Palace like a business to manage, farming and keeping accounts as she quietly struggles to survive.
The night she unexpectedly saves the Crown Prince is the only variable in all her plans.
Grateful for her kindness, he gives her a jade token and passes her information. He even brings her before the Emperor, making her the Consort Chu whom all six palaces watch with envy.
She thinks it's simply a shrewd exchange of favors.
But on the night she is granted residence in Yonghe Palace, he stops her beneath the palace walls, in the shadows of the moonlight.
"Consort Chu, I taught you how to repay a life debt, didn't I?"
"Your Highness, I'm your concubine mother according to the family register."
He chuckles, his breath brushing her ear. "Then wait until I... burn that register to ashes."
It is rich in detail, logical, and offers a unique perspective.