Yintang is a modern psychology doctoral student who transmigrates into the body of the Ninth Prince of the Qing Dynasty during the twenty-fifth year of Kangxi's reign. Aware of the brutal historical outcome of the Nine Dragons' War for the Throne, he decides to adopt a carefree, mischievous persona to avoid political entanglement and survive the upcoming succession crisis. Raised by Consort Yi in Yikun Palace, Yintang enjoys a relatively peaceful childhood, shielded by his mother's favored status and his own deliberate choice to remain unambitious. His primary goal is to live a long, safe life as a "salted fish" prince, similar to his fifth brother Yiqi, who was raised by the Empress Dowager and remains aloof from court struggles.
The story opens with Yintang engaging in typical childish antics, such as climbing trees to catch cicadas, which leads to an unexpected encounter with Emperor Kangxi. Rather than punishing him severely, Kangxi is amused by the boy's cleverness and filial piety, granting him the opportunity to choose his own archery instructor. This interaction highlights the complex dynamic between Yintang and his father, as Kangxi is both a strict ruler and a doting parent. Yintang also forms close bonds with his brothers, particularly Yinqi, who shares his playful nature, and Yinzhen, who is burdened by academic pressure and a distant relationship with Kangxi. Yintang's empathy for Yinzhen's emotional struggles drives him to create an ant observation box, strengthening their friendship and laying the groundwork for future alliances.
A significant turning point occurs when Yintang is injured protecting his younger brother Yin E from a falling tanghulu skewer. The incident draws the attention of Kangxi and the imperial physicians, showcasing Yintang's inherent kindness beneath his mischievous exterior. Later, at the Archery Hall, Yintang encounters the Crown Prince, Yinreng, and faces bullying from the arrogant Yinti. Yintang's calm and indifferent response to Yinti's provocations unsettles the older prince, marking the first time Yinti experiences a lack of control in his interactions. This encounter establishes Yintang's strategic approach to navigating palace politics, avoiding direct confrontation while maintaining his desired low profile.
Throughout the early chapters, Yintang balances his modern knowledge with the constraints of his historical setting. He uses his understanding of child psychology to navigate relationships with his brothers and father, subtly influencing their perceptions of him. His invention of Ginger Milk Curd, initially a simple treat for his brothers, becomes a point of interaction with Kangxi, who critiques his focus but ultimately softens his stance after Yintang's emotional response. This moment reveals Kangxi's internal conflict between his duties as emperor and his role as a father, as well as his growing affection for Yintang's sincerity.
As Yintang grows older, he continues to cultivate his image as a harmless, playful prince while secretly building a network of alliances. His relationships with Yinqi, Yinzhen, and other brothers become increasingly significant, as he seeks to protect them from the impending political turmoil. The narrative explores the tension between Yintang's desire for a quiet life and the unavoidable realities of his position within the imperial family. His interactions with Kangxi become more frequent, revealing the emperor's high expectations and the pressure placed on his sons to excel in both martial and scholarly pursuits.
The story sets the stage for Yintang's journey through the treacherous waters of Qing court politics. While he aims to remain a bystander, his actions and relationships inevitably draw him into the conflicts that will shape the dynasty's future. His modern perspective and psychological insights provide him with unique advantages, allowing him to anticipate and mitigate threats to his safety and the safety of those he cares about. The narrative focuses on his personal growth, the evolution of his relationships, and his struggle to maintain his identity in a world where survival depends on navigating complex social hierarchies and political machinations.
