Prosperity of the Royal Court

Xie Jingshu, a beauty of noble birth and former fiancée of the Duke of Kang, is unexpectedly chosen by the Emperor and brought into the harem as a favored concubine. Surrounded by endless adoration, she becomes the target of jealousy from the Empress and the Noble Consort. They deliberately create supernatural omens and spread rumors claiming she is a demon concubine bringing disaster to the nation. The gossip spreads from the palace to the court, causing immense suffering for Xie Jingshu and her family. While the Emperor indulges in wine and women and neglects state affairs, leading to widespread poverty and public unrest, the Duke of Yu seizes the opportunity to rebel under the guise of clearing the court. As the capital is besieged, the Emperor flees the palace with Xie Jingshu, the Empress, and the Noble Consort. En route to the imperial pavilion, they are intercepted and surrounded by the rebel army.