In the continent-spanning Great Empire of Sai, there resided a peerless beauty named Li Honglan.

Feared across lands as the merciless "Wicked Empress," she was the type to coldly declare, "Off with that man’s head."

Yet, under her advisors’ urging, she agreed to take a husband: Wang Longyuan, the Fifth Prince of the vassal state of Xiu.

"Let me be clear—few men are worthy of being my husband."
"I will never bow to you willingly."

Though their union seemed a match of stunning beauty, their sharp exchanges foreshadowed turmoil. What secrets does Longyuan hide? What lies buried within the imperial harem? And what fate awaits Honglan?