In a country where the golden tree benefits all living beings and where the imperial rule is strict, a strange "withering disease" is quietly spreading in the border town "Wangjin". Grass and trees withered, granaries became moldy, and even daily necessities turned to ashes silently.
Awu, an orphan girl who lives here, is drawn into this whirlpool because of her innate keen perception of plants. She investigated with traveling scholar Cang Yuan and discovered that there was a secret connection between withered plants and spoiled military rations. However, the clues to the truth are covered up by invisible forces: the strict guarding general, the secretive medical officer, the refugees who are silent about the "Holy Tree Ceremony"...
As the investigation deepens, Awu discovers that the source of this seemingly natural disaster is actually the golden tree itself that maintains the world and blesses all things. Gifts and curses come from the same source, hope and despair coexist. When she touches the most unquestionable foundation of imperial power and faith, she must also face an ultimate choice that can subvert everything: Should she reveal the taboo truth that shakes the world, or let this silent withering devour everything she cherishes in the world?
Intention: strong