After the late emperor dies, the vassal princes leave their territories and head for the royal capital. With the support of the capital garrison under his maternal grandfather’s command, Prince Qin launches a rebellion, kills the crown prince who entered the palace to take the throne, and purges the other princes with claims to the succession. He then installs a child emperor. Li Cunzhen, a descendant of Prince Yan, narrowly escapes and vows revenge. The historical setting draws inspiration from the Rebellion of the Eight Princes, with technology based on a blend of World War I and steampunk.