Tian Xi Wei stuns in dual roles in the 'Where the Mask Ends' trailer
Chinese historical drama The Heir has confirmed its release for May 17.
Set against the backdrop of a Huizhou ink case during the Jiajing era of the Ming dynasty, the story follows Li Zhen, the youngest daughter of the eighth branch of the prestigious Li clan. Determined to revive her family's business, she uses her talent for ink-making to lead the Li family ink enterprise back to its former glory.
Along the way, she and Luo Wen Qian, the second son of the Luo family, evolve from rivals into partners as they join forces against the rising Tianmo family and challenges posed by overseas ink businesses. In the end, they create the "finest ink" and preserve the legacy of Huizhou ink craftsmanship.
Through Li Zhen's journey of growth, the drama portrays her path to becoming a leader in the Huizhou ink industry as she breaks the rule that said the craft must be "passed down to sons, not daughters" amid business struggles and technological innovation.
Set against the backdrop of the mid-Ming dynasty, The Heir tells the story of the rise and fall of several major Huizhou ink-making families represented by the Li family.
A tribute ink case shakes the long-standing Huizhou ink industry, causing the century-old Li family of ink makers to fall from grace. With the Li family fallen, the Luo family's ink business rose to prominence and enjoyed unmatched success after surpassing the Li family. However, due to their involvement in court politics, the Luo family ultimately met a tragic downfall, leaving fortunes ruined.
As time passes, Li Zhen, the youngest daughter of the eighth branch of the Li clan, embarks on the path of ink-making to earn a livelihood. Through her talent and hard work, she rises in Huizhou's ink industry scene.
Luo Wen Qian, the second son of the Luo family, plans to restore his family business and single-handedly shakes up Huizhou's ink industry. Together, the two engage in fierce battles of wits against the rising Tianmo family, all of which eventually lead the Li family's ink business back to its peak.
The Heir is reportedly China's first major drama centered on Huizhou ink culture.
Yang Zi stars as Li Zhen and Elvis Han as Luo Wen Qian.
The Heir is coming May 17. Stream it on iQIYI.
Source: Baidu
