This fourth volume has corrected and satisfied many of the complaints I had with previous volumes, and therefore has become my favorite volume of the series so far. The story is engaging, full of unpredictable twists and tons of character development. My only regret is that the plot seems to be turning away from the Inner Palace, so I am forced to say goodbye to the many characters I have fallen in love with.

Jinshi and Maomao’s murky pasts are becoming clearer, and multiple side characters are given developed backstories as well. Maomao is finally able to solve multiple mysteries once and for all, instead of just speculating about them and reaching no conclusion. I am extremely excited about the new turn this story has taken, and I am starting to become interested in reading the light novels that this manga is based on.