Princess Xiao Jingyue of Zhaoding is decisive and ruthless, wielding immense power at court and commanding the Emperor's Sword to keep the imperial court in check. Xie Mubai, a junior son of a Minister of Revenue, presents himself to the world as a frail, chronically ill man who coughs blood and seems close to death. In truth, he is the heir of the Southern Frontier, lying low in the capital. When they first meet at a birthday banquet, Xie Mubai plays the helpless victim and cautiously tests the princess, arousing her suspicions. Xiao Jingyue investigates him repeatedly, only to discover that he truly suffers from numerous chronic ailments. Through music and games of strategy, the two engage in a tense game of mutual testing and manipulation, with hidden currents swirling beneath the surface. As princes vie for power at court and the forces of the Southern Frontier stir up turmoil, the pair face off as equally formidable opponents behind their masks and probing schemes. Watch how this cunning, theatrical husband wins the heart of the formidable princess as they join forces to reshape the fate of the Great Liang.