Aidan Garrison, a weak scholar, binds with a system to become an official. As First Scholar, he receives a deadly mission: propose to a royal lady or die. He proposes to Princess Regent, Cynthia Locke. As Prince Consort, he discovers the Emperor is afflicted with Puppeteer's Kiss poison, revealing his poison mastery. He uses medicine to control Emperor while navigating schemes of princes, clans, and the Venomous Scholar. He survives by wits and poisons, taking control of the court.
