After a close call with a deadly epidemic and an attempt on the
emperor's life, the imperial court of Qudu is in turmoil. The emperor
is determined to hold someone among the noble clans accountable, a
desire Shen Zechuan and Xiao Chiye are prepared to use to their
political advantage. The chaos gives them another opportunity as
well--a chance to investigate the suspected mastermind behind the fall
of Zhongbo five years ago.
Yet as they delve deeper into the past, new dangers emerge in the
present. For every move they make, their unseen adversary seems always
a step ahead, driving them into a trap from which there is no way out.
As Shen Zechuan and Xiao Chiye's lives grow more and more entwined,
both find they are increasingly reliant on each other. But when Xiao
Chiye extends a hand in their most desperate hour, will Shen Zechuan
take it?