A merchant caravan draws Maomao's attention when strange coincidences begin to connect its visitors and goods. Investigating the convoy means confronting fresh intrigue at the imperial court, where dangers from within and beyond threaten the delicate balance among the emperor's concubines.
Maomao has already helped unravel court mysteries and conspiracies through her sharp reasoning and extensive knowledge of medicines and poisons. Now, having come to terms with her parents' secrets, she is back at her regular duties serving the emperor's highest-ranking consorts. She also assists the eunuch Jinshi in supporting their ladies-in-waiting, including teaching them to read. With the caravan raising new questions, Maomao must again put her medical expertise and investigative skills to work to protect the women she serves.
