Shen Zhaoning is the only daughter of the Shen family—free-spirited, brave, clever, and optimistic, loving craftsmanship over needlework and mathematics over poetry. Xie Lingyan is the Emperor, who ascended the throne young, diligent and responsible, possessing both tender personal affection and broad devotion to his realm. Childhood sweethearts separated for five years, their reunion comes when Shen Zhaoning is about to be betrothed by imperial decree to another childhood friend, Pei Heng. Knowing each other's feelings yet facing growing friction, one is composed and restrained, determined to keep her by his side in the palace; the other is spontaneous and free, torn by the weight of duty. A tale devoid of hierarchy, birth status divides, power struggles, harem intrigues, or prejudice—purely a story of love, courage, freedom, and responsibility.