In Jingyang Palace, there are no favored masters, only forgotten souls. Thirteen years later, Chun'er is still a lowly palace maid whom anyone can trample on, yet she crosses paths again with Jinbao, a young eunuch in charge. Half an old steamed bun brings back an unpaid debt from their youth. He gives her food and money, teaches her to read, and shows her how this imperial palace devours people. But as his protection gradually turns into discipline and dependence slowly grows sharp edges, Chun'er realizes that what Jinbao places in her palm is never merely a way to survive. Within the deep palace walls, a game of grooming involving gratitude, desire, and the human heart has only just begun.