The late emperor dies unexpectedly. Princess Li Rongheng takes the throne ahead of her younger brother with an imperial edict, only to face fierce opposition from conservative ministers who claim, "A woman meddling in state affairs violates the ancestral rules." They even secretly conspire with the regional princes, hoping to force their way into the palace and seize the throne. A storm of blood and violence seems ready to sweep over the land.
The eldest son of the Qi family, Qi Mingchuan, has just won the top score in the imperial exams and is about to enter officialdom. Just as everyone is offering congratulations and currying favor, a decree from the newly enthroned empress leaves him frozen. She takes him into her harem on the spot, cutting him off from an official career for good.
The new empress remains calm in the face of danger. She relies on the prestige of the imperial family and her trusted aides to stabilize the situation, while quietly investigating the late emperor's death.
The new imperial consort seethes with resentment and watches the empress's schemes coldly, secretly hoping to escape. Yet time and again, the empress uses his family's safety to force his hand, leaving him with no choice but to submit.
"Consort Qi, do you hate me?"
"It is my good fortune to serve Your Majesty. I would not dare... refuse."
With her position still precarious after ascending the throne, Li Rongheng personally leads a campaign to the border. Meanwhile, conservative ministers and regional princes in the capital take advantage of her absence to make their move. Guided by the belief that husband and wife are in the same boat, the eldest son of the Qi family navigates the dangers of the inner palace alone, drawing on the knowledge and wisdom he has accumulated over the years to stabilize the situation.
The investigation into the late emperor's death is fraught with danger. Once the truth comes to light, all the ministers who once swore loyalty oppose making it public. At this crucial moment, the eldest son of the Qi family changes his earlier stance and supports the new emperor. When the two join hands, can they truly secure the throne and usher in an age of prosperity?
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Notes:
1. Several male supporting characters have unrequited feelings.
2. Unmarried characters are assumed to be sexually inexperienced.
3. The female lead gives birth.
Theme: Husband and wife are in the same boat
