Maomao does her best to navigate the complex social situations at the garden party, including meeting the other Upper First rank concubines. But once she settles down to do her work as a food-taster, she discovers a surprise in a bowl of soup.

A tea party hosted by Lady Gyokuyou puts the politics of the rear palace at the forefront, and Maomao learns something new about Lady Lishu. His true intentions unclear, Jinshi sends Maomao to work for Lady Ah-Duo.

Maomao confronts Fengming about the dark secret she's been hiding from her noble Lady Ah-Duo.

Ah-Duo's replacement has arrived in the rear palace, and Maomao is assigned to give a certain lecture to all four high concubines. Later, Maomao helps Lihaku investigate a warehouse explosion.

Xiaolan's term of service is almost up, so she must find a new job. Maomao and Shisui decide to help.

Concubine Lishu reports sightings of a ghost in the baths in her pavilion. Maomao goes to investigate.