Qiang Chuan

Ten years ago, Zhang Luzhi, the young general of the Dashuai Mansion, was mysteriously murdered. The servant who was guarding the funeral hall saw the coffin lid open on its own, and a wooden puppet hand reached out of the coffin, scaring everyone away. However, when they returned to the funeral hall, they found that the coffin lid had not moved.

Orphaned as a child, Liu E travels to the capital Kaifeng, and later catches the eye of Zhao Heng. Though she was a concubine, Liu E was perceptive to state affairs, and often discussed politics with Zhao Heng. This tradition continued when he became emperor in 997. Liu E is crowned empress after adopting the son of a concubine (later Emperor Renzong), and serves as regent of the Song Dynasty during the last two years of her husband’s reign. Liu E would continue to rule until her death twelve years later in 1033.

Hua Mujin grew up during the chaotic era of the five dynasties and the ten states. As a child, she and her younger twin sister Hua Jinxiu were sold as slaves to the powerful Yuan Family. They are sent on the road with three other children - Yu Feiyan, Song Minglei, Yao Biying and the five take a vow of friendship to always care for each other.