The crown prince is known throughout the empire as a ruthless killer and war-crazed leader, admired by his soldiers but feared by society. He has consistently brushed off women and rejected all marriage proposals from noble families, disgusted by their transparent greed for his wealth and title.

When his father's health rapidly declines, the emperor becomes bedridden, filling the prince with worry. Rushing to his father's side, he finds royal physicians attending to the ailing monarch. In their private conversation, the emperor expresses his final wish: to see his son married and happy before he dies. Though burdened by this request, the prince reluctantly agrees to find a bride.

For months, he searches without success. None of the noblewomen seem worthy of his hand, each more interested in his title than in him. Frustrated by the situation, he attends the summer spring festival ball more out of duty than desire for social interaction.

At the ball, he spots his childhood mentor, the Grand Duke of Palisna, conversing with a young lady. The prince has long respected the duke, who served as his swordsmanship instructor and advisor. He's surprised to see the duke with a daughter, as the nobleman had always kept his older child hidden from society for protection.

The moment his eyes meet hers, the prince feels an unexpected connection. He's immediately captivated by her beauty and composure. At that instant, he knows she is the one he wants as his wife. When the duke steps away to speak with another guest, the prince seizes his opportunity.

Approaching with a glass in hand, he takes her hand gently and kisses the back of it with a charming smirk that has made many women's hearts flutter. "Good evening, lady Palisna," he says in a rich, commanding voice. "I hope your evening is going splendidly?"