Cast & Character List
Hu Bingqing as Luo Shu
Luo Shu, originally named Luo Shuxiang, is the captivating lead performer at the prestigious Mingke Brothel. Her early life was marked by tragedy when a family crisis forced her into a life of hardship. Despite her circumstances, Luo Shu is exceptionally intelligent and resilient, with a mastery of traditional arts like music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. She maintains a strong sense of justice even in the face of adversity.
Her life takes a turn when she assists the local county magistrate, Han Muzhi, in solving several complex cases. Luo Shu's sharp intellect and remarkable observational skills prove invaluable, showcasing a level of wisdom and courage that belies her background.
Driven by a desire for freedom and independence, Luo Shu eventually earns her way out of the brothel. Her journey is further complicated by her growing feelings for Qi Menglin. The two develop a close bond, facing numerous challenges together, and eventually become a couple. Luo Shu is known to be calm, reasonable, and intelligent.
Zhai Zilu as Qi Menglin
Qi Menglin is the son of a powerful Governor, a position of high authority and prestige. He's known for his carefree and unconventional personality. Qi Menglin possesses a strong sense of justice. He is deeply in love with Luo Shu, and his devotion leads him to take risks and even forsake his family's wealth and status for her.
Throughout the series, Qi Menglin undergoes significant personal growth. He starts as a young man reliant on his family's influence, but his experiences with Luo Shu, particularly their work together solving mysteries, transform him. He matures into a responsible and courageous man, willing to stand up for what's right. This transformation includes a major sacrifice: he is ultimately sentenced to exile for stealing military supplies to help feed the common people. He faces many hardships, but eventually, he and Luo Shu are able to build a life together. He is described as a bumbling fool with a heart of gold.
He Peng as Han Muzhi
Han Muzhi is a man of unwavering principle and integrity. He's deeply committed to serving the people and strives to make a tangible difference in their lives. When it comes to investigating cases, he is meticulous and detail-oriented, refusing to overlook any potential clue. Even when facing pressure from his superiors, he remains steadfast in his commitment to justice.
During his investigations, he meets and develops feelings for Luo Shu. However, he also has a pre-arranged marriage agreement with Liu Wan.
Han Muzhi is caught in a dilemma between his career and his growing affection for Luo Shu. He faces opposition from Prefectural Magistrate Liu, who disapproves of his relationship with Luo Shu, believing it will hinder Han Muzhi's career advancement. This places Han Muzhi at a crossroads, forcing him to grapple with his feelings, his duty, and his ambitions.
Ding Xiaoying as Liu Wan
Liu Wan is the daughter of Governor Liu. Her marriage to Han Muzhi was arranged by her father. Initially, Liu Wan held high hopes for her marriage and desired a respectful and harmonious relationship with her husband. However, when she realizes Han Muzhi's feelings for Luo Shu, jealousy and a desire to protect her own relationship lead her to initially antagonize Luo Shu. She is the fiance of Magistrate Han.
As Liu Wan gets to know Luo Shu better, she sees that Luo Shu isn't intentionally trying to sabotage her marriage. She comes to recognize Luo Shu's resilience and kindness. Liu Wan is described as smart, and eventually apologizes to Luo Shu. This causes a shift, and her attitude changes.
Feng Xiaotong as Chen Meiqing
Chen Meiqing is the by-the-book and somewhat conservative Deputy Magistrate of Linfen County. He's a stickler for rules and tradition. While he generally follows the lead of Magistrate Han Muzhi in handling cases and daily affairs, Chen isn't afraid to voice his own opinions. He is initially displeased with the arrival of Luo Shu and Jin Miaocui at the county office, viewing them as being of low status and therefore unsuitable to reside there. When Han Muzhi decides to allow Luo Shu and others to stay in a side courtyard of the office, Chen Meiqing, disgruntled, arranges for them to be placed in a storage room instead.
Li Jiaxin as Jin Miaocui
Jin Miaocui is a close friend of Luo Shu, and they both resided at the Mingke Brothel. Their bond is strong, providing mutual support through difficult times. They escape the brothel together, seeking a fresh start. However, Jin Miaocui struggles to adapt to life in the county government office. Clashes with those around her lead her to return to the Mingke Brothel. This decision proves tragic, as she uncovers a dangerous secret about the brothel, putting her life in peril, and ultimately leads to her untimely death.
Zhai Yujia as Constable Cai
Constable Cai is a seasoned and dedicated constable in the local county government office . A man of strong principles and deep empathy, Cai possesses considerable experience in solving crimes. He's driven by a powerful sense of justice and a deep commitment to his community. He is shown to have a close relationship with his younger sister, Cai Baozi.
Cai is not only devoted to his family but also takes his responsibilities seriously, working diligently to maintain peace and order. He becomes an invaluable asset in the investigations led by Han Muzhi. His collaborative partnership with Luo Shu is crucial in cracking cases, showcasing his ability to work effectively as part of a team. He is presented a very important supporting character.
Sun Yali as Cai Baozi
Cai Baozi is the younger sister of Constable Cai, and she's also a constable at the county office. She's a whirlwind of energy – boisterous, impulsive, and with a definite street-smart vibe. Think of her as the kind of person who walks into a room and you know she's there. She's incredibly direct and straightforward, never one to hide her feelings or intentions. Cai Baozi radiates a bold and unrestrained aura, instantly grabbing the audience's attention whenever she appears on screen. She operates with a "what you see is what you get" approach, full of a refreshing, almost brazen, honesty.
Liu Changde as Coroner Xu
Xu is the steadfast and meticulous coroner of the county. He approaches his work with a serious and rigorous demeanor. Xu is a vital asset to the investigative team, including Luo Shu and Han Muzhi. He examines the bodies of the deceased, determining crucial information such as the cause and time of death, and identifying any critical injuries. His expertise provides essential clues, with his professional insights consistently offering key breakthroughs that drive the investigations forward.
