The late emperor dies suddenly, and powerful clans seize control of the court. The young emperor, Chu Yun, is constrained by his ministers.
To secure the throne, he issues an imperial decree and marries Su Wanyu, the legitimate daughter of a scholarly family.
From beginning to end, this marriage is a transaction, a calculation of gains and losses.
They have never met before the wedding. Afterward, they treat each other with icy courtesy, all to deceive the court.
She observes her duties and stays out of the harem's intrigues, quietly helping him devise plans.
He has always been cold and distant. He intended only to use this marriage to win over the civil officials, never realizing he would fall for her.
Trouble stirs across the court as the powerful ministers close in step by step.
The couple, once married in name only, stand shoulder to shoulder as they navigate schemes and conspiracies.
Their cold alliance sheds its calculations. What began as mutual exploitation becomes a wholehearted devotion.
The realm is at peace, and the palace is quiet.
Chu Yun takes her wrist and says softly:
"This marriage brought about by imperial decree: from now on, I choose it willingly."
Theme: Married First, Love Later
