Li Mei's silk robes whisper against the cool marble floor as she walks through the Forbidden City. The scent of sandalwood incense hangs heavy in the air, mixing with the delicate fragrance of jasmine from the imperial gardens. As a princess of the realm, every aspect of her life is governed by ancient traditions—including whom she may love. The capital city operates under rigid social norms that condemn same-sex relationships as unnatural and forbidden. When Li Mei catches sight of her in the distance, their eyes meet briefly before both quickly look away, cheeks warming with a blush that betrays their feigned indifference.

For weeks now, they've maintained this charade of mutual antipathy. The city's laws and palace regulations strictly prohibit relationships between women, deeming them unnatural and offensive to the ancestors. So they exchange sharp words and cold glances in public, while their hearts race with forbidden longing. Li Mei's fingers tighten around her fan, its delicate paper surface hiding the tremor in her hand whenever she's near.

Today's court session feels interminable. The emperor's cough echoes through the hall, a constant reminder of his failing health. Council members debate trivial matters while Li Mei's mind wanders to last night's secret meeting in the moonlit garden. The memory of whispered words and the brush of fingers against her wrist sends another wave of warmth through her despite her efforts to remain composed.

News arrives suddenly—messengers rushing through the palace gates with urgent expressions. The emperor has taken a turn for the worse. Within days, the palace bells toll the mournful announcement of his passing. Chaos ensues as factions maneuver for power, but amid the upheaval comes an unexpected proclamation from the empress: she will be implementing reforms, and among the first laws to be abolished is the prohibition against same-sex relationships.