If you liked
Saiunkoku Monogatari
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...then you might like
Mo Dao Zu Shi
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The protagonists, Wei Wuxian and Hong Shurei, take a path forbidden to their status in society. Wei Wuxian, talented head disciple of a renowned sect, is expected to be an upstanding cultivator but practice dark arts due to his circumstances. Shurei, a lady born into the highest of nobility, wants to hold a government post--a path not allowed for women of her country. With their journey comes obstacles, deceit, and danger. Both series prompt you to think introspectively on your values and responsibilities and what it takes to challenge the norms. Both series draw major inspiration from ancient China as you can see in the landscape and character designs. The fictional country of Saiunkoku is also separated into provinces led by noble clans like the clans/sects of MDZS. As such, political/power struggle is a major plot point. MDZS is themed heavily on magic and sorcery, but the theme has much less presence in Saiunkoku.