Asterin, the daughter of a renowned marquis famed for her arresting beauty and vivacious spirit, was ensnared in an affair with the Emperor despite his initial marital ties with another women. In the genesis of their secret relationship, he showered her with unparalleled affection, whispering sweet vows to elevate her to the revered status of concubine and adore her for all eternity. However, destiny harbored a cruel twist. Upon the triumphant return of the grand duke, a figure whose name was synonymous with tyranny and brutality, a magnificent ball was orchestrated in honor of his war victories. In there, the Emperor declared an unforeseen reward. He proclaimed that Asterin would be bestowed upon the grand duke as his bride in recompense for his valorous deeds. It was at this harrowing juncture that Asterin discerned the insidious truth-that she was but a pawn in a monarch's game, a fragile plaything now callously discarded to endure agony at the hands of a cruel consort. What path lay before her now? With silent resolve, Asterin vowed that she was going to prove to the sovereign that she will have a happy marriage despite the rumors.