For thirty years, the Great Jing Dynasty has enjoyed peace and stability. The people have had time to recover and prosper, farming and commerce have gradually flourished, and the people are simple and honest, though the warmth and struggles of everyday life simmer beneath the surface.
The dynasty is founded on agriculture and values scholarship over commerce, yet it does not hinder the flourishing trade among the people. Taverns and eateries dot the towns and countryside, making this a fine era for artisans to establish themselves. Society is clearly stratified, with villages, market towns, county seats, prefectural cities, and finally the capital, Tianqi City, forming a complete world from the bottom up. Common folk at the lowest rung make ends meet by farming or running small businesses, with enough food and clothing their greatest hope. Merchants, local gentry, and minor officials control livelihoods in their own areas, while officials, great families, and the powerful occupy the upper ranks, wielding influence and resources that shape the fortunes of the land.
Silver taels and copper coins are the currency in circulation. One tael of silver can be exchanged for a string of a thousand coins, while an ordinary farming household earns only a few taels a year. A coin or two can buy a filling meal. Common ingredients include rice, wheat, grains, vegetables, fruit, pork, chicken, fish, and shrimp. Seasonings are simple and cooking methods basic, far from the refined flavors of later cuisine.
The story begins in Qingxi Village, takes off in Qingxi Town, and travels through Yunxi County and Huai'an Prefecture before finally reaching the bustling capital. The heroine, Shen Zhiyi, begins her journey in this world with her heaven-defying culinary skills and a portable spiritual spring space. From an orphan forced to live under someone else's roof, she steadily makes her way through the everyday world and forges a brilliant future.
Hidden away in Qingxi Town is Fu Sinian, who appears to be a refined young gentleman but is in truth the Prince of Jing, a renowned figure who commands the military. He has temporarily retreated to the countryside to avoid political strife. The moment he meets her, he showers her with tenderness and protection, accompanying her as she rises from obscurity to glory.
