Wiki & Encyclopedia: Red Mansion Detective

The wife of Jia Lian and a prominent, strong-willed manager of the household affairs, frequently referred to as Sister Feng.

A prostitute operating in Zhonglou Street, also known as Nine-fingered Jade Phoenix. She has a deformed left hand from a childhood injury.

The supreme matriarch of the Rongguo Mansion. She holds authority over the family and is particularly doting toward her grandson, Baoyu.

The widowed daughter-in-law of the Jia family. She maintains a dignified and reserved presence, strictly adhering to traditional moral standards.

The late father of Sun Shaozong. He formerly held the title of General of Divine Might and was a figure once known to Grandmother Jia.

The young son of Li Wan. He possesses a frail constitution comparable to his late father, leading his mother to hope for martial training to improve his vitality.

The Shenwu General and the superior of Sun Shaozu. He is a pragmatic military leader concerned with his son's lack of discipline.

The son of General Feng Tang, currently struggling with a rebellious phase that frustrates his father.

A pampered young master of the Jia household who is now expected to undergo martial training.

A young master of the Jia household.

A young master of the Jia household.

The long-serving steward of the Sun residence, responsible for managing household arrangements and festive preparations.

The Department Director (Zhizhong) of Shuntian Prefecture. He attempted to sabotage Sun Shaozong by assigning him a seemingly impossible homicide case, an effort which backfired and solidified Sun's reputation.

The Grade 7 Registrar of Shuntian Prefecture. A biased and petty official who harbors deep resentment toward military-appointed officials and openly challenges Sun Shaozong.

A seventh-rank official (Zhishi) at Shuntian Prefecture who serves as the lead administrator for the newcomer's induction process.

A captain (constable) serving directly under Sun Shaozong. Although initially anxious about Sun's lack of support within the bureau, he remains loyal and quickly aligns himself with Sun once the Assistant Prefect declares his support.

A low-ranking, unofficial clerk (inspector) in the Criminal Division. He is responsible for the flawed organization of the welcome banquet and is subsequently humiliated and punished through forced intoxication by the Assistant Prefect as a warning to other disobedient officials.

The Prefect of Shuntian Prefecture and the superior of Sun Shaozong. He initially attempts to suppress Sun Shaozong but becomes cautious due to Jia Yucun's intervention.

The elder brother of Baoyu who is deceased; remembered by his father as an ambitious student.

A scholarly companion (Qingke) at the Rongguo Mansion who is also a manager at the Xue family antique shop. He is pragmatic and considered for the position of military secretary by Sun Shaozong.

The intelligent, composed, and rational daughter of Aunt Xue, who often attempts to mediate the reckless behavior of her brother, Xue Pan.

The matriarch of the Xue family, mother of Xue Pan and Xue Baochai, currently residing in the northwest wing of the Rongguo Mansion.

A young serving maid in the Xue household, often caught amidst the family's disputes.

Also addressed as Jingqing, a young man whose sudden death has caused great grief within the household.

A pampered young master of the Jia household who is now expected to undergo martial training, though he is currently absent due to personal grief.

A fragile young woman, currently an acquaintance of Ruan Rong, who suffers from delicate health.

A deceased man whose passing has prompted his family and neighbors to orchestrate a summary execution against his suspected wife.

The older brother of the victim, Zhang Erhu. He serves as the primary accuser against his sister-in-law, Mrs. Li, claiming to have witnessed her fleeing the scene of the crime.

The wife of the deceased Zhang Erhu. She is accused of infidelity and the murder of her husband, though she maintains her innocence and claims she is being framed.

The murder victim. He was a man of volatile temper who frequently mistreated his wife, Mrs. Li, out of jealousy over rumors regarding her conduct.

A chubby, pale-faced man who leads a group of roughnecks. He is currently looking for revenge against Feng Ziyang following a physical altercation.

A newly debuted courtesan at the Jinhxiang Yard whose charm is highly sought after by local elites.

A legendary historical female general from the Song Dynasty, famously rising from a courtesan background, whom Sun Shaozong views with great respect.

A legendary, peerless martial warrior from the Three Kingdoms period, used here as a comparative benchmark for martial strength.

A close companion to Sun Shaocong, living with him in his residence. She is perceptive, protective, and possesses a kind heart despite her circumstances.

An aging, loyal household steward who serves Sun Shaocong and handles administrative matters for the residence.

An Assistant Minister in the Ministry of Works who was found dead under mysterious circumstances. He previously held a superstitious grudge against dogs, leading to his eccentric behavior.

The victim found murdered in his study. A high-ranking government minister whose death has triggered a complex investigation due to the locked-room nature of the crime and the gruesome state of the remains.

Concubine of Minister Ge and the biological mother of the eldest son, Ge Xiaorui. She is suspected of desiring the family inheritance for her son and harbors deep, volatile resentment toward the Minister.

The old butler of Ge Manor. He holds long-standing grievances against Minister Ge for refusing to appoint his sons to positions within the household.

The eldest son of Minister Ge. He desires the family inheritance, making him a prime suspect in the murder investigation.

The second son of Minister Ge. Identified by Sun Shaozong as a major suspect in the case, despite his previous status as the Minister's favorite.

The third son of Minister Ge. Considered a key suspect due to deep-seated resentment following the tragic death of his biological mother, Concubine Liu.

The nine-year-old youngest son of Minister Ge. He was present at the scene but was excluded from suspicion due to his young age.

The Minister of Works and the direct superior of the deceased Minister Ge. An influential official who attempts to seize control of the investigation process.

The deceased biological mother of Ge Xiaoyi, whose death while in service to the household triggered significant familial resentment.

The deceased biological mother of Ge Xiaoxian.

A diligent personal maid serving Li Wan, entrusted with maintaining the privacy of her mistress's quarters.

A maidservant in the household often responsible for relaying notices and urgent messages between the masters and the family members.

The wife of Jia Zheng. She maintains a distant and cold demeanor toward Li Wan and the young Jia Lan, associating the latter's birth with the tragic passing of her own eldest son.

A senior and trusted servant within the household who manages domestic affairs and serves as a reliable source of information for the ladies of the house.

A high-ranking official within the Criminal Division of the Shuntian Prefecture who maintains a contentious relationship with Sun Shaozong and Jia Yucun due to their circumvention of his financial authority.

The governing official of Shuntian Prefecture. He initially delegated the dangerous 'Heavenly Dog' case to Sun Shaozong hoping for failure, but now regrets the resulting fame Sun has acquired.

The former monarch of the Great Zhou Dynasty who continues to exert influence and has specifically requested to hear about the murder case investigation.

The daughter of a local butcher and wife of Zhou Liang. She is distraught over the wrongful conviction of her husband and father for murder and seeks justice from Sun Shaozong.

The husband of Mrs. Hu and son-in-law to Butcher Hu; he is currently imprisoned on death row for a murder he claims he did not commit.

A butcher by trade and father of Mrs. Hu; he is currently on death row alongside his son-in-law due to a dubious murder conviction.

The local district official who presided over the initial murder trial and sentenced Butcher Hu and Zhou Liang.

A high-ranking royal consort residing in the Imperial Palace, seated alongside the Retired Emperor and the Prince, observing court proceedings.

A powerful and influential noble family from the Jiangnan region, linked by generations of intermarriage to the Rongguo Mansion (Jia Family), holding political sway and influence over local administration.

The aged and timid County Aide (Xiancheng) of Daxing County. He is currently acting in place of the absent Magistrate and assumes lead responsibility for the botched murder trial.

The Magistrate of Daxing County, described as a talented and romantic young official who married into the influential Zhen family. He is currently absent from his post under the pretense of caring for his sick mother.

The coroner of Daxing County who provided an initial, superficial examination report before being compelled by Sun Shaozong to perform a more rigorous, evidence-based forensic investigation.

A young clerk/constable whose father is a prominent carpenter. He provides vital information about the local crafts community and identifies the suspect 'Carpenter Zhang'.

An eccentric and reclusive master woodcarver known for crafting lifelike sculptures. He was disfigured by burns in his youth and is currently working at the Rongguo Mansion.

The chief steward of the Rongguo Mansion, responsible for managing the daily logistics, garden construction, and personnel of the estate.

A member of the third branch of the Jia clan; he is currently tasked with supervising the construction work within the Imperial Concubine's Garden.

A competent and highly attentive personal maid serving Wang Xifeng, noted for her quick wits and loyalty.

A young nun from the Shuiyue Convent who was abducted by Carpenter Zhang and subsequently died. She is the central figure in the current investigation.

A quiet and retiring cousin in the Jia household who rarely engages in public conflict or vocal disputes.

A younger cousin in the Jia household noted for her critical observations and willingness to comment on the misfortunes of others.

The deceased father of Qin Zhong, whose health failed due to the profound shame and grief caused by his son's behavior.

A senior and highly respected personal maid serving within the Jia household, known for her level-headedness.

A spirited and occasionally sharp-tongued personal maid serving within the Jia household.

A servant of the Jia household tasked by Baoyu to assist with funeral arrangements.

A personal attendant to Jia Baoyu.

A servant of the Jia household who assists in escorting and providing care to the young masters of the family.

A high-ranking noble and political rival to the faction associated with Prince Zhongshun.

The wife of Jia She and a senior noblewoman within the Rongguo Mansion, often associated with formal ceremonial occasions.

The venerable and esteemed elder of the Jia family, holding supreme authority and the highest level of respect within the household.

Jia Zheng's protégé, a former official at the Court of Imperial Sacrifices who has been promoted to a Junior Prefect at the Shuntian Prefecture, overseeing financial and administrative affairs.

The Marquis of Zhongjing, a man of robust stature and straightforward manner. He is a member of the Shi family and seeks to maintain ties with established military families.

The late eldest grandson of the Marquis of Baoling, a brilliant military commander who defeated Goryeo but died of illness.

The younger brother of the late Shi Jue who inherited the title of Marquis of Baoling.

A member of the third branch of the Jia family who was injured in a recent murder case.

A member of the same martial examination class as Sun Shaozong. He transitioned to civil service and secured a powerful position in the Ministry of Revenue by marrying the daughter of the Minister of Personnel. He is arrogant, opportunistic, and dislikes Sun Shaozong.

A top-ranking martial scholar who placed second in the examination. He successfully transitioned to a civil role as a Local Prefect and achieved widespread fame for personally leading troops to defend against pirates.

The influential Minister of Personnel and father-in-law to Zhu Peng.

The niece of Marquis Shi Ding. She is currently a young girl yet to reach maturity, known for a naive and cheerful disposition.

A relative of the Jia family, frequently referenced for her striking beauty and allure.

A member of the same martial examination class as Sun Shaozong and a merchant by background. He serves as an Eighth-Rank Orderly in the Directorate of Pasturage and acts as a subservient follower to Zhu Peng.

A cousin of Zhu Peng holding the rank of Sixth-Rank Assistant Lieutenant. He is generally more composed, diplomatic, and socially adept than his cousin.

A former magistrate and fellow martial graduate. He was framed by his subordinates, imprisoned, and subsequently stripped of his post, leaving him in a state of ruin.

The daughter of Minister Wang. Known for her scandalous reputation, illicit affairs (including one with Zhu Hu), and a history that makes her an undesirable bride despite her high status.

A cousin belonging to a side branch of the Jia family. He possesses a competitive and stubborn disposition, frequently engaging in aggressive scuffles with his uncle, Jia Huan, during training sessions.

A diligent page and personal attendant to Baoyu, trusted to handle intimate or sensitive belongings, including the books Baoyu acquires.

The local magistrate overseeing Daxing County, responsible for submitting initial case reports up to the Shuntian Prefecture.

The loyal and observant personal maid of Xue Baochai, who is deeply curious about her mistress's reaction to Sun Shaozong.

A senior male member of the Jia family who shares residence authority with Jia Zheng.

A high-ranking official of the Wang family involved in the contentious marriage arrangement proposed for Xue Pan.

A powerful military official whose son had a recent conflict with Feng Ziyang at Baihua Tower.

A personal maid serving Lady Wang, occasionally encountered in the corridors of the Jia estate.

An associate of Xue Pan who is occasionally involved in activities, such as reading detective novels, alongside Sun Shaozong and Xue Pan.

The second steward of the Sun Mansion and a trusted subordinate of Sun Shaozong.

A maid in the Sun Mansion who serves Ruan Rong.

A physician frequently called to the Sun Mansion to attend to the health of gathered petitioners.

An official responsible for verifying administrative records and files within the Shuntian Prefecture.

A distant relative of the Jia family currently sentenced to death for murdering a man named Lan at the Silver Hook Gambling House. Evidence against him includes murder, desecration of a corpse, and resisting arrest.

A military officer and rival to Sun Shaozu who publicly mocked Sun Shaozu's lack of heirs, triggering a violent outburst.

The gatekeeper for the Sun Mansion who suffers from the collateral damage of Sun Shaozu's volatile temper.

A concubine of the Sun household who holds newfound importance after being diagnosed with a pregnancy.

The veteran household steward of the Sun family.

A military official who hosted the banquet where the conflict between Sun Shaozu and Wei Rusong occurred.

The head of the Ningguo lineage of the Jia clan, currently supervising the construction of the imperial garden.

A maid in the Jia household who tends to Lin Daiyu.

A carriage driver employed by the Jia family.

A member of the Dragon Imperial Guard. He is disciplined and professional, currently handling a sensitive arrest.

A member of the Dragon Imperial Guard serving alongside Shen Lian. He is cautious and respectful of hierarchy.

The brother-in-law of Feng Xin's bride, who is left disgruntled after being accidentally struck by a ritual wedding arrow.

The Assistant Prefect (Tongpan) of Shuntian Prefecture, specifically tasked with engineering and hydraulic work responsibilities.

A rising merchant family previously serving under the Imperial Treasury, currently under investigation and facing ruin due to their involvement with Prince Yizhong.

A trusted coachman and servant serving the Sun household.

A servant girl assigned to the Sun Mansion, responsible for domestic duties and overseeing the arrangement of new residents.

An attendant or maid in the Sun Mansion household serving under Ruan Rong.

The younger brother of Wei Rusong and brother-in-law to Prince Beijing. He is arrogant, frequently invoking his family's high status to intimidate and pressure others, and harbors a personal vendetta against Sun Shaozong.

A low-ranking servant in the Jia household and nephew of the chief steward, Zhou Rui. He is opportunistic and sycophantic, eager to please his superiors for favor.

A talented pipa player and courtesan from the Jinhxiang Court, often hired to perform at high-status private banquets.

The Magistrate of Wanping and a subordinate official involved in the Riverway construction project.

The former River Dike Commissioner for the Yongding River, discovered hanging in his quarters under suspicious circumstances. He held the rank of fourth-degree official.

A salt and iron commissioner (Tongpan) who recommends Sun Shaozong to investigate the murder.

An accounting clerk serving under the late Xu Mingtang. Despite his professional status, he displays an unnaturally intimate knowledge of Xu's private family life, leading Sun Shaozong to suspect his complicity in a hidden agenda.

The head steward of the Rongguo Mansion. He is brash enough to openly threaten government officials, including the Assistant Prefect.

The pampered and arrogant son of Lai Da. Formerly a slave, he now attempts to use his father's illicit influence to secure an official position through the imperial examinations.

The wife of Jia Lian, known for her sharp tongue, pride, and vindictive nature. She maintains a reputation to protect and is targeted as a potential ally by the Lai family to undermine others.

The wife of Lai Da. She serves as a strategist for her husband, advising him on how to secure financial gains and political influence through the manipulation of information.

A second-tier maid in the service of Wang Xifeng. She is observant and protective of her mistress, often handling errands between the various family compounds.

A servant under Lai Da tasked with delivering the poisoned wine to Sun Shaozong. He is clumsy, inadvertently dropping the jar when surprised by Jia Baoyu.

An acquaintance of Jia Baoyu and Sun Shaozong, currently pregnant, whose recent absence has left others feeling melancholy.

A prominent and wealthy young master often cited in social comparisons regarding hedonism within the capital's aristocratic circles.

The young mistress of the disgraced Ho merchant family, whose disappearance and potential fate in the Ministry of Rites prison concern Jia Lian.

The son of Sun Shaozong. He commanded the Bohai Navy and conquered Japan. He eventually usurped the throne from the Great Zhou Dynasty to establish the New Wei Empire, declaring himself the Son of a Heavenly Being.

A high-ranking official and reformer who served under Sun Shaozong and contributed significantly to the colonization and development of the Liaodong region.

A high-ranking official who worked alongside Yu Qian in managing the administrative and population reforms of the Liaodong territory.

Formerly the Deputy Minister of the Censorate, he was executed during the purge following the political upheaval at the Palace of Earthly Tranquility.

The author of the novel, addressing the readers.

Jia Zhen's wife, who eventually abandons her husband and son to seek refuge with Wang Xifeng.

An aging maidservant of the Ningguo Mansion who remains with the Jia family until they can no longer provide basic sustenance.

Jia Zhen's son, who shares his father's pathetic descent into poverty and moral decay.

A servant girl who serves the base needs of the Jia father and son.

A member of the Ningguo family who abandoned the household during its decline, stealing resources and running away with two theater performers.

A young child of five, the heir apparent to the throne. Though manipulated by the Retired Emperor, he demonstrates surprising political agency and courage.

The mother of the Imperial Grandson. She acts with strategic boldness, leveraging her status to secure the safety of her son and challenging the authority of the Retired Emperor.

The Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices (Taichang Temple). He is a staunch loyalist to the Retired Emperor and actively obstructs Sun Shaozong's proposals.

The Minister of Personnel. He is a pragmatic senior official who supports Sun Shaozong's promotion to bolster the security of the palace.

The Second Grand Secretary of the Cabinet. He provides critical support for the appointment of Sun Shaozong to the Imperial Guard.

The First Grand Secretary of the Cabinet. A man of few words, his endorsement effectively seals the support of the imperial court for Sun Shaozong.

Father of Qiu Yunfei and a senior military official. His heated rivalry with Feng Tang has caused significant social friction.

The wife of the late Crown Prince, who is currently in hiding as a fugitive of the current regime.

An imperial consortcurrently in hiding, being hunted by the authorities.

An aging palace servant who delivers the grave news of the Emperor's death to the retired monarch.

A low-ranking military official in charge of the Zuō'ān Gate, currently feeling intimidated by the high-ranking officials gathering in his vicinity.

A leader responsible for coordinating the beggar network in the city to assist Sun Shaozong in his search operation.

The officer in charge of the prestigious Tiger Cavalry Camp, noted for his cautious approach to political maneuvers and imperial edicts.

The Chief Administrator of Prince Zhongshun's Mansion, currently detained or obstructed by the Tiger Cavalry Camp due to suspicious circumstances.

A renowned and formidable warrior, currently the target of a search by the government forces.

A field officer of the Dragon Imperial Guard who attempts to block Sun Shaozong. He is apprehensive and clearly acting without official imperial backing, seeking guidance from the civil official Li Tong.

The gentle and observant consort of Sun Shaozong. Despite the volatile political climate, she maintains a composed and supportive demeanor, providing emotional stability to her household.

A loyal young maid serving Xing Xiuyan in the Sun Mansion.

A gatekeeper at the Sun Mansion responsible for household logistics and defense.

The newly appointed Assistant Magistrate (Xiancheng) of Daxing County. He is more proactive and willing to consult with authorities than his superior, Magistrate Wang.

A junior official (green-robed minor official) serving under the Daxing County office.

A local lame man and bachelor in the eastern part of the city who discovered a fresh corpse while attempting to buy grain.

A head catcher from Wanping County assisting in the investigation of the serial murder case.

A patrol catcher from Wanping County who was murdered.

A scholar mentioned as an example of someone who lost his mind after passing the imperial examination.

A senior member of the Dragon Imperial Guard and an older brother figure to Shen Lian and the late Jin Yichuan. He is a capable and experienced officer currently seeking justice for Jin Yichuan.

A seasoned investigator and Captain of the Northern Division. Despite his analytical competence and experience with criminal cases, his arrogance and difficult temperament have hindered his career advancement. He harbors professional jealousy toward Sun Shaozong.

A powerful and influential palace official who holds high regard for Sun Shaozong, granting him significant political leverage.

A sturdy young subordinate from the Jinling branch of the Sun family, sent to the capital to prepare for the arrival of the Sun family's younger generation for the upcoming imperial examinations.

Also known as 'Drunk Vajra', a merchant whose family has fallen into trouble after he was caught selling forbidden examination notes near the Examination Hall.

A concubine of the Sun household, noted for her skill in 'oral techniques', who pleads with Sun Shaozong to save her brother, Ni Er.

The brother of Lai Da, serving as a manager at the Rongguo Mansion, potentially involved in overseeing the construction projects.

A senior official of the Ministry of Rites currently chairing and leading the Autumn Examinations.

The father of Xiangling (originally Zhen Yinglian). He is a former scholar and minor official (Registrar) from Suzhou who lost his daughter during a Lantern Festival years ago.

A scholar who attempts to infiltrate the Sun household to reconnect with his childhood sweetheart, Ying'er, but faces severe repercussions for his actions.

An advisor or scribe responsible for legal documentation.

The senior martial brother of the late Jin Yichuan. A highly skilled and cunning fugitive, he is accused of orchestrating a murderous conspiracy and replacing the real Jin Yichuan. He is currently evading capture.

The real name of the man who impersonated Jin Yichuan.

An Assistant Commissioner of the Northern Division, known for being infatuated with his beautiful concubine.

Formerly known as the Young Mistress of the He Family, she is now the concubine of Qian Ning. She is highly seductive, manipulative, and possesses a dark, mysterious past involving her family members and former lovers.

A man from Chen Rushuang's past, identified as the person beheaded by Jin Yichuan.

A captivating and manipulative woman formerly associated with the He family, now living as the concubine/associate of official Qian Ning. She harbors a tragic and secret past involving a former lover, the gardener Zhang Lang, and deliberately attempts to sow discord between Sun Shaozong and Qian Ning.

A martial arts examinee from Sun Shaozong's admission year who visits to pay respects to his peer.

A servant attending to the Xue family household.

The widow of the Xue family and mother to Xue Baochai and Xue Pan. She is proud, protective of her family's dignity, and easily swayed by concerns regarding social reputation.

A sharp and intelligent young woman of the Jia household, known for her interest in family administration.

A maidservant currently being forced to serve in the residence of the eldest brother, Sun Shaozu.

A talented and educated lay nun currently living in seclusion at the Mouni Temple. Despite her aristocratic background, she is experiencing financial difficulties, making her open to working as a private tutor.

The Vice Minister of the Ministry of Rites and the chief examiner for the provincial examinations. He leads the invigilators in official procession upon the release of the exam results.

The deceased, a newly appointed provincial scholar (Juren) whose suspicious death at the inn prompted the investigation.

A provincial scholar candidate who placed 126th in the imperial examinations. He was known for his arrogant demeanor and propensity to insult his peers, which directly led to conflict prior to his murder.

A scholar with a refined, handsome appearance often described as delicate. Despite his looks, he possesses significant physical strength and basic martial arts proficiency. He is noted for his singing ability.

The father of Liu Xianglian, he served as a deputy vanguard under the command of Sun Shaozong's father during the Goryeo campaign. Both he and Sun's father were ordered to commit suicide at the Yalu River.

A prominent merchant family linked to the Jia household by marriage, currently embroiled in financial entanglement with the Jia family's construction projects.

A legendary, elderly retainer of the Ningguo household. Once a war hero who saved the life of the Duke of Ningguo, he is now neglected, mocked, and mistreated by the current generation of servants.

A haughty and arrogant Vice Examiner and member of the prestigious Hanlin Academy. He deeply resents military officials and is revealed to be involved in scandalous private affairs.

The Provincial Governor of Hebei. He harbors a deep resentment towards Sun Shaozong for forcing him to observe a public execution during a past assignment.

A high-ranking military official whose household is influential within imperial circles. Sun Shaozong intends to facilitate a connection between this family and his associates.

The Chief Clerk of Prince Zhongshun's mansion, serving as a trusted advisor and intelligence gatherer for the Prince.

The Minister of Personnel of the Great Zhou Dynasty, a highly influential court official recently seen traveling to the Crown Prince's mansion.

The Minister of Revenue, an important state official attending the Crown Prince's significant gathering.

The Minister of War, known as the Grand Marshal (Da Sima), a powerful figure in the imperial military hierarchy.

The heir apparent to the Great Zhou throne, currently using his position of influence to host high-ranking officials under the guise of preparing for ancestral rites.

The Minister of Rites, responsible for the oversight of imperial ceremonial affairs.

A military commander of the Jinzhou garrison, referenced as a historical comparison for military postings.

The second son of First Grand Secretary He Tiren, an official frequently accompanying his father in political circles.

The Chief Eunuch of the Daming Palace. Following the demotion of Dai Quan, he has risen to become the most favored attendant of the Emperor, often viewed as a proxy for the imperial will.

The commander of the Bohai Naval forces, who is currently attempting to secure political protection in the capital following the death of Wang Ziteng.

An arrogant priest who serves as the facilitator for the Crown Prince's secret shadow play, exhibiting a cold and controlling nature as he directs the events within the sealed chamber.

A famous theatrical performer and favorite of the nobility, often referred to by his stage name, Qi Guan.

A subordinate officer serving under Sun Shaozong, currently assisting Lu Jianxing in securing the Sun mansion and maintaining order.

A loyal maidservant in the Sun household who serves Jia Yingchun. She acts as a greeter and is visibly anxious regarding the safety of the household.

The head steward of the Sun household, responsible for domestic management and receiving guests on behalf of the master.

A corrupt steward of the Jia household who embezzled massive sums of money. Before committing suicide by jumping into a well, he left behind a damning list of other corrupt individuals within the estate.

A concubine of Jia Zheng, implicated in the rampant embezzlement scandal that has engulfed the household.

An elder retainer of the Jia family, held in high regard by Sun Shaozong for his character.

The mother of Jia Baoyu and a powerful figure in the household. Following Baoyu's recent near-death experience, she holds deep resentment toward Wang Xifeng for her perceived failure in managing the household.

A young lady of the Jia household known for her mild temperament.

A Buddhist monk based at Zijin Temple. He is consulted by noble families for spiritual advice and prophecies regarding family matters and wedding dates.

The mistress of the East Mansion. She is noted for her robust and healthy physique, which is frequently cited as the ideal standard for the Jia family's daughters-in-law.

Younger generation relative of Sun Shaozong, often impulsive and quick to anger when insulted by political rivals.

Younger generation relative of Sun Shaozong, who accompanies Sun Chengtao and Yu Qian.

An arrogant scholar of the Hanlin Academy who uses his status to demean and suppress junior scholars at literary gatherings.

A student and protege of Sun Shaozong who is suspected of orchestrating a trap for the younger students by leading them to a hostile poetry gathering.

A student and protege of Sun Shaozong who is suspected of orchestrating a trap for the younger students by leading them to a hostile poetry gathering.

A young maidservant in the Sun household, originally selected from a refugee camp. She is noted for her beauty and is promised to Sun Chengtao as an incentive for his academic success.

A mysterious young widow residing near Chongwen Gate who has become an object of infatuation for Jia She, driving him to act in ways he otherwise would not.

The deceased woman, known for her sharp and fiery personality. She bears a striking physical resemblance to Wang Xifeng, which caught the attention of Jia She.

The daughter-in-law of Jia Zhen, involved in a scandalous relationship with him, which inspired Jia She's illicit desires.

The wife of Hu Jingsheng, characterized by her manipulative nature and infidelity. She is adept at fabricating excuses and emotional ploys to evade legal consequences, including feigning pregnancy to manipulate her husband.

A gullible and simple-minded man. He is the husband of Hu Lin-shi and the son of Old Man Hu. Despite being presented with evidence of his wife's affair, he naively tries to secure her forgiveness due to his belief in her feigned pregnancy.

The emaciated, elderly father of Hu Jingsheng. He seeks justice against his daughter-in-law for her adulterous behavior but is left devastated when his own son ultimately betrays their cause to protect her.

The shop owner who employs Hu Jingsheng. He is revealed to be the secret lover of Hu Lin-shi and is apprehended by Zhao Wuwei while attempting to flee the city.

The Right Censor-in-Chief who previously provided a letter of recommendation for Sun Shaozong.

The local coroner responsible for examining corpses. He possesses technical knowledge of forensic pathology and assists Sun Shaozong with detailed anatomical observations.

A relative of the Rongguo Mansion lineage. He is currently being held captive and assaulted by Jia Qin at the Shuiyue Convent, likely due to a dispute over a professional assignment.

A nobleman of the Jia family and the father of the concubine Sun Shaozu married.

The newly appointed Zhenfushi (Commander) of the Northern Division of the Imperial Guard, who demands formal attendance from his subordinates.

The Chief of Penalties (Zhangxing Qianhu) within the Northern Division. He is a corpulent official who harbor deep professional resentment toward Sun Shaozong, viewing him as a newcomer who challenges his established status.

A powerful and influential palace eunuch who oversees the Southern Division of the Imperial Guard, often acting as a political rival to the Northern Division's leadership.

A social associate of Jia Baoyu and Sun Shaozong, often included in their social gatherings.

A senior male relative within the Jia household responsible for organizing family events and managing household affairs.

An elderly man of sixty-three who has filed a lawsuit against his son for unfilial conduct and abuse.

A shrewish and quick-tempered woman known in her neighborhood for her argumentative nature and mistreatment of her father-in-law.

An elderly neighbor who serves as a witness in the legal proceedings against the Hu couple, testifying to the physical abuse inflicted upon Old Man Hu.

An elderly neighbor testifying as a witness in the legal proceedings against the Hu couple, having observed physical injuries on Old Man Hu.

The gatekeeper stationed at the entrance of the Shuntian Prefecture office.

An acquaintance of Hu Dazhu, mentioned as having been with him prior to the events in question.

A talented and gifted young actress within the Jia household's theater troupe, whose singing and delicate features bear a resemblance to Lin Daiyu. Favored by the Imperial Concubine, she is noted for her willful behavior and specialized attachment to Jia Qiang.

A martial arts champion from the eighth year of the Guangde era, now serving as a fifth-rank garrison commander.

A high-ranking official, 'Nine Provinces Inspector General,' known for his stern discipline and intolerance for underlings using his name for private business dealings. He influences the political landscape of the southeast provinces.

A subordinate of the 'Nine Provinces Inspector General' who abuses his authority to escort private cargo under the guise of official business. He is physically abusive toward laborers.

A companion of the Fat Hundred-Man Commander who assists in bullying laborers and flaunting the authority of the Inspector General.

The robust and headstrong personal maid to Jia Yingchun. Known for her assertive personality and strong build, she often dictates household decisions for her mistress and harbors a secret romantic connection outside the family.

A steward in the Jia household and the grandfather of the maid Si Qi, whose position provides his granddaughter with significant social confidence.

The wife of the steward Wang Shanbao and an influential servant regarding Lady Wang's affairs; she is the grandmother of the maid Si Qi.

The younger brother in the Sun family, often cited as being more gentle and considerate compared to his brother, the Adjutant.

The mother of Prince Beijing and a figure of the highest nobility, whose lineage provides critical political legitimacy and backing for her son.

A high-ranking clerk or scribe within the Shuntian Prefecture office, noted for his skilled calligraphy and administrative capabilities.

A pampered young master of the Jia household who is now expected to undergo martial training.

An official who disregarded an invitation to attend a reception held for Wei Ruolan, suggesting potential conflict or disdain between them.

Jia Baoyu's younger half-brother, often marginalized within the family household.

A head maidservant in Lady Xing's household. She has recently gained favor with Jia She and is known for an impulsive and somewhat confrontational personality.

A servant under Jia Lian who meets an untimely and suspicious death in the capital. He is a cousin and secret lover of Si Qi.

A trusted attendant matron (陪房) serving Lady Xing. She is the grandmother of Si Qi and possesses minor influence within the household staff hierarchy.

A scholar and former student of Sun Shaozong who successfully passed the imperial examination.

A vocal critic and political detractor of Sun Shaozong within the military camp, often questioning the circumstances surrounding Sun's assignments.

A spirited and ambitious maid in the Jia household, also known as Lin Hongyu. She is the daughter of Steward Lin and seeks opportunities to gain favor and status.

A second-tier maid serving in the Jia household, known for being meddlesome and critical of other maids like Hong'er.

A timid subordinate under Sun Shaozong who witnessed the crime scene and identified Mingyan as the culprit.

One of the three female cultivators imprisoned at the Shuiyue Convent, accused of murderous intent.

A local official who is currently on medical leave and is acquainted with Miaoyu.