Su Xiaoyu, a modern woman who died from overwork, transmigrates into the body of a gluttonous maid in the novel "Power Over the Realm." Recognizing herself as a minor background character, she decides to abandon her previous ambitious lifestyle and instead aims for a comfortable existence as a servant in the Marquis's estate until the story concludes. Her primary goal is to avoid trouble and enjoy good food while waiting for the original female lead to marry into the family. However, her peaceful plans are disrupted when she accidentally reveals crucial investigative details through her inner monologue, which the novel's male lead, Xiao Jingheng, can suddenly hear. Xiao Jingheng, a stern and efficient official from the Court of Judicial Review, discovers that Su Xiaoyu possesses intimate knowledge of cases he is currently investigating, including the location of hidden evidence in a corruption case and the whereabouts of a missing person's body.
Initially suspicious, Xiao Jingheng tests Su Xiaoyu's abilities by offering her imperial gifts in exchange for information. He realizes she is not a spy but a transmigrator with modern knowledge and a keen understanding of human nature and logic, hidden beneath a facade of simplicity and gluttony. To utilize her unique insights without exposing her, he assigns her as a personal attendant to his younger sister, Xiao Lingxi, a spoiled and impulsive young lady who initially despises Su Xiaoyu. This arrangement forces Su Xiaoyu into a difficult position, as she must navigate the strict and often cruel demands of her new mistress while secretly aiding Xiao Jingheng with his cases.
Xiao Lingxi, suspecting that her elder brother favors Su Xiaoyu, attempts to sabotage the maid's position by imposing rigorous training and etiquette lessons. However, her schemes often backfire, leading to increased study sessions for herself under Xiao Jingheng's supervision. Meanwhile, Xiao Jingheng's younger brother, Xiao Jingxuan, becomes curious about Su Xiaoyu after hearing rumors from Xiao Lingxi. He takes Su Xiaoyu out under the guise of hiring her as a male attendant, hoping to uncover her secrets, but is instead amused by her straightforward and food-obsessed nature.
As the story progresses, Su Xiaoyu continues to provide Xiao Jingheng with invaluable information through her inner thoughts, helping him solve complex cases involving court politics and criminal investigations. Her modern perspective and logical reasoning prove effective in situations where traditional methods fail. Despite her desire for a quiet life, Su Xiaoyu finds herself increasingly entangled in the affairs of the Marquis's estate and the judicial system. Xiao Jingheng, intrigued by her unique abilities and hidden depths, grows closer to her, while Su Xiaoyu struggles to maintain her low profile amidst the growing attention from her master and the hostility of her mistress.
The narrative explores the dynamics between the characters as Su Xiaoyu navigates her new role, balancing her desire for comfort with the demands placed upon her by those around her. Her interactions with Xiao Jingheng reveal a growing mutual respect and understanding, while her relationship with Xiao Lingxi remains tense and competitive. The story sets the stage for further developments as Su Xiaoyu's presence continues to impact the lives of those in the Marquis's estate and the broader political landscape.
