A Precious Pearl in the Imperial City Novel

The imperial city treasures three things most: myself, Chen Wang, and my mother-in-law.

Su Guifei basks in the harem's spotlight, adored yet deeply envied. Chen Wang prospered beneath the Emperor's steadfast affection since childhood. Nevertheless, anyone of discerning taste predicts inevitable downfall—a mother and son so blessed cannot possibly escape ruin.

Ming Jiuzhu, betrothed to Chen Wang, refuses to accept such doom.

In Jiuzhu's eyes, Chen Wang shines as a gentle, beautiful celestial being. In everyone else's view: a spoiled, indulgent prince swimming in his parents' favoritism.

Jiuzhu wonders constantly why such pitying gazes follow them both, as if calamity were inevitable. Is this nothing but the ugliness of envy magnified?

The hearts of such people run black with corruption.