Minglan's mother is harmed by a favoured concubine leading her to die in childbirth. Minglan grows up walking on eggshells to survive in a toxic family environment with only the loving care of her grandmother to keep her going. As she grows up, she uses her wits to investigate the death of her mother and get justice. As she starts to come out of her shell, she reveals her true talents and intelligence, which she will need on the path ahead!