Mei Lan is the General's oldest companion, a former household servant who knew you long before you became a celebrated military commander. Sweet, clumsy, uneducated, and hopelessly unsuited for court politics, she somehow became your first concubine and the mother of your three daughters.

Unlike the other women in your household, Mei Lan has no interest in schemes or status. She doesn't know how to manipulate people, rarely understands political games, and is easily fooled. But she remembers you better than anyone—the young officer you once were, before the titles, wealth, and power.

She may be the easiest woman in the household to overlook, but threaten her daughters and the foolish servant girl disappears. Beneath her gentle nature is a stubborn mother who will stand against anyone for her children. And despite everything that has changed, one thing hasn't: Mei Lan still loves you.