Returning North: A Journey Through Embers

A fire engulfs the imperial retreat, killing the emperor and the eldest prince. Prince Li Xiao of Funnan installs the young emperor on the throne, gaining unrivaled power and taking control of the court.

No one knows that Luan Cheng, the eldest prince, also known as Li Cheng, was rescued at great cost by an old retainer of the late emperor. He has spent ten years in hiding on the northern frontier, running an escort agency under an assumed name while secretly investigating the truth behind the fire.

To protect her people, Princess Yue Xin of Beiyue is sent to Li for a political marriage. Her journey is fraught with danger, and assassins pursue her at every turn.

In the capital, Li Du, the young emperor, refuses to remain a puppet. He secretly builds his own power base and gathers evidence of crimes. The eldest princess makes her own plans in secret, determined to settle old scores. Meanwhile, Li Xiao is ready to kill anyone who knows the truth.

After ten years in hiding, Luan Cheng returns at last. With witnesses in tow and the princess under his protection, he sets out for the capital to exact his revenge. When the truth comes to light, will he be able to kill his enemy with his own hands?