The political situation at court has changed: the birth of Gyokuyouâs son has seen her elevated to the status of Empress, and meanwhile Jinshi is no longer able to continue his pretense at the rear palace. Although all seems peaceful after the destruction of the Shi clan, threats continue to loomânot least a potential plague of insectsâand Maomao, as ever, somehow finds herself caught up in them.
When Jinshi orders an expedition to Gyokuyouâs homeland, Maomao heads west. But is there something lurking in the shadows of the glittering city? And will Maomao be able to discover what it is before itâs too late?