The Wind Stirs

She was the beloved jewel of the Duke's household, skilled in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. Light as a swallow, she danced with breathtaking grace, yet was confined by the rules of the inner chambers.

She was an unfavored prince. She wore a reputation for womanizing as armor and used her wild, unrestrained ways as a blade, hiding her pride among the pleasure houses and entertainment quarters.

A rescue and an imperial marriage decree forced two people with no interest in love together on the red thread of fate.

She thought the other was flirtatious and fickle; the other thought she was cold and proud. But as they spent their days together, they glimpsed the courage and deep affection in each other's souls.

For her, the other shed her youthful innocence, took charge of the household, and managed its affairs, supporting a family on the brink of ruin with quiet resilience.

For her, the other shed her rough edges and concealed her sharpness, donned armor, and went to battle, transforming from a spoiled prince into a young general.

Yet on the day of their triumphant return, they were met with a bloody coup.

A wicked consort seized the country, and a puppet was enthroned.

Their glorious military achievements became another's stepping stone.

The new emperor issued a decree forcing her to marry the Khan of the Northern Di.

The long road to this political marriage tore apart two hearts that had only just drawn close.

"If this realm has no place for you, then I'll overturn it for your sake."

The once frivolous prince, who had never applied herself to her studies, lost everything and lay low for years. At last, she bared her sharpest fangs.

And would the woman who danced like a startled swan wait amid the windswept sands of the northern frontier for the one she loved to come riding toward her?

A political marriage born of calculation, a turbulent-era legend that ends in devotion.

When both the realm and the beloved become pieces on a chessboard, who will be the one holding them?

Theme: Wait for one person until your hair turns white, and protect peace for all under heaven.