Mu Jianxi, a modern food blogger, unexpectedly transmigrates to the ancient kingdom of Qiyuan. Upon arrival, she discovers a sentient jade bracelet on her wrist that introduces itself as Bao Bao, the steward of a Gourmet Space. The system provides her with a novice gift pack containing ten thousand taels of silver and an infinite inventory of modern ingredients and seasonings. Mu Jianxi navigates the bustling capital, purchases a large courtyard adjacent to the Prince’s Estate, and begins her new life. Her first culinary experiment is Boiled Sliced Pork paired with river snail rice noodles, a dish whose aroma drifts next door to Gu Ruizhe, the Eighth Prince, known throughout the kingdom as the "Ogre-Faced Rakshasa" due to his ruthless reputation and picky eating habits. Intrigued and hungry, Gu Ruizhe sends his subordinate Ye Yu to request a portion of the meal. Mu Jianxi welcomes him, and the two share the dish, establishing an immediate connection centered on food.
Over the following days, Gu Ruizhe and his Four Shadow Guards become regular visitors, effectively freeloading meals at Mu Jianxi’s residence. She responds by launching a snack business, creating Rose Flower Cakes, Peanut Brittle, and Drunken Peanuts. These delicacies catch the attention of the Emperor and the Empress Dowager when Gu Ruizhe sends them as gifts, causing a sensation in the imperial court. The system upgrades as Mu Jianxi completes culinary missions, unlocking new ingredients and tools. She prepares Mulberry Cream Puffs and candied hawthorns, the latter of which proves particularly beneficial for the Grand Princess, Gu Yunlan, who is suffering from pregnancy-related nausea. Mu Jianxi accompanies Gu Ruizhe on a trip to the Grand Princess’s estate, where she further cements her relationship with the royal family by diagnosing the Princess’s condition and providing appetite-stimulating snacks.
The core conflict arises from the stark contrast between Mu Jianxi’s cheerful, culinary-focused existence and Gu Ruizhe’s feared, isolated status. While the public trembles at the Prince’s name, Mu Jianxi treats him with casual familiarity, often teasing him about his reputation. Gu Ruizhe, who has never allowed any woman to approach him closely, finds himself increasingly drawn to her warmth and the comfort she brings. Their dynamic shifts from neighborly transactions to a deeper companionship as they travel together, forage for ingredients like Matsutake mushrooms, and share meals. Mu Jianxi’s goal remains focused on financial independence and opening her own restaurant, while Gu Ruizhe subtly uses his influence to support her ambitions, offering her a shop in return for her company. The narrative follows their growing intimacy through shared culinary experiences, set against the backdrop of court politics and the Prince’s dangerous public image.
