This is not a palace-intrigue story!
Shen Yiran, once a refined young lady from a distinguished family, has fallen to the rank of a laundry maid in the palace. She acts cautiously, keeps her sharp edge hidden, and waits for her moment.
All Shen Yiran wants is to clear her name and avenge herself one day. With intelligence and determination, she claws her way up from the dust, carefully planning each step. Unexpectedly, she stirs the heart of a deep and aloof emperor. His heart is difficult to read, but this is Shen Yiran's only chance, even though she has no interest in romance.
It all begins with mutual exploitation.
As their flirtation intensifies and she is showered with favor, Shen Yiran still hasn't realized she's fallen into the most complicated love affair of all.
**Please note:
* The ending is happy, and the male lead is the emperor.
* There is no love at first sight, but there will be a love triangle and angst.
* A fictional ancient setting, possibly somewhat inspired by the Ming Dynasty. (Eunuchs are only partially castrated, not fully.) The setting is mostly fictional! Please don't nitpick the historical details!
* The main couple is a female lead who has had relationships with others and a male lead who has not. The secondary couple is a female lead who has not had relationships with others and a male lead who has. There is virtually no rivalry between women in any meaningful sense!
* Political intrigue is secondary; romance is the focus.
Moral: Choose love to break the deadlock, and plan every step.
