Li Zhi is the ninth son of Emperor Taizong (Li Shimin) of the Tang Dynasty and holds the title of Prince of Jin. After losing his mother at age nine, he was raised directly by the emperor and became his most beloved son.
To outsiders, Li Zhi appears kind and gentle, staying above palace conflicts. But whether this is his true nature or just a mask, the struggle for power will eventually involve everyone.
Evie Huang as
Wu Yuanzhao
Yuanzhao - You are a member of the Wu family, at the age of fourteen, recommended to the imperial court by your Aunt, Consort Yang of Elegance.
You begin your journey as a fifth-rank Cairen, stepping into the palace's world of secrets and intrigue. How far will your ambition take you?
Li Tai is the fourth son of Emperor Taizong (Li Shimin) of the Tang Dynasty and holds the title of Prince of Wei. Ambitious and determined, he will do whatever it takes to become crown prince. He avoids emotional attachments, seeing everyone as pieces in his plan and refusing to let anything become his weakness.
Princess Gaoyang has been adored by Emperor Taizong since she was a child, treated as a precious jewel of the imperial family. When she meets you, she is drawn to you, a special Cairen. She often visits you at Yeting, and the two of you share secrets, ignoring the rules that forbid such closeness.
Bianji is a monk from Daci'en Temple, studying under the famous master Xuanzang. He helped write the Records of the Western Regions and translated Sanskrit texts, showing deep understanding of Buddhism. He was expected to achieve great things as a monk, but everything changed when he met Princess Gaoyang, whose lively spirit turned his world upside down.
Consort Wei of Preciousness
Qi Xiaxia as
Consort Wei comes from the prestigious Wei clan in the Capital Prefecture. She is known for her stunning beauty and graceful presence, and she has a deep love for peonies. However, beneath her charming appearance, she is strong-willed and can be ruthless in her actions.
Li Shimin's eldest son, the crown prince. He carries the heavy burden of great expectations, but his true passion is not ruling—he loves music and the beauty of nature.
Chen Xin is a beautiful musician whose music is both enchanting and deadly. Li Chengqian, captivated by his music, believed he had found a true friend and became emotionally attached.
Liu Xi was your childhood friend when your fathers worked together in Li Prefecture. Your families were close, and you shared many happy memories. But after your father was demoted, you and Liu Xi lost contact. You never expected to see her again, especially as fellow Cairens in the palace, which at first made you happy.
Consort Yang of Elegance
Liu Min as
Consort Yang, known as the Consort of Elegance, is your Aunt and one of the Four Consorts. She played a key role in helping you enter the palace as a Cairen. Highly respected by Emperor Li Shimin, she holds great power, rivaling Consort Wei in influence. Rumors say she had a twin sister, Yang Que, who entered the palace with her but died from illness years ago.
