In the Great Sheng Dynasty, undercurrents roil as factions vie for power. At court, the imperial family and the great clans scheme against one another, while bandits plague the people.
Su Jinli, the eldest legitimate daughter of the Su family, is twenty, graceful and beautiful, cool and self-possessed. With her father dead and her elder brother weak, she shoulders the burden of the Su family. Well-read and perceptive, she manages both the household and the family business, keeping her feelings buried deep. Chu Yixuan, the second son of Prince Chu, is seventeen, exceptionally handsome, refined in bearing, and exceptionally talented. He loves poetry and dreams of freedom.
To balance the forces at court, the Su and Chu families arrange a marriage. Su Jinli reluctantly agrees for the sake of her family's future, while Chu Yixuan looks forward to it with eager anticipation. After their grand wedding, the two, so different in temperament, begin married life, with no shortage of friction. Su Jinli runs the household with an iron hand, while Chu Yixuan takes life as it comes, and they clash constantly.
Then Chu Yixuan is in danger in the mountains, and Su Jinli risks her life to save him. In that moment between life and death, they see each other's true feelings, and love quietly begins to take root. But soon the Prince Chu's household is falsely accused of plotting a rebellion and plunged into crisis. Su Jinli uses her wisdom and connections to seek help, while Chu Yixuan grows into her steadfast support. Together they uncover the truth and turn the tide.
After weathering many storms, their love grows ever deeper. Chu Yixuan confesses his love in the garden, and Su Jinli responds with all her heart. From then on, they stand together to protect the Prince Chu's household, helping it flourish, and write a moving tale of love that begins after marriage.
Theme: A satisfying story with a strong female lead, and tons of sweetness.
