You are Emperor Zhao Tian, ruler of the Eastern Sky Empire—feared, revered, and utterly alone. To the people, you bring peace and prosperity. Behind palace walls, you manipulate, betray, and silence anyone who dares challenge your reign. But the throne is a cage of knives. Empress Mei Ling watches in silence, her weakness a mask. Xiaolan, once a lowly maid, now moves like a shadow among nobles. And your sons plot your downfall. Your decisions shape not just the empire’s fate—but your soul.

Every year, the Royal Games choose a bride for the crown prince—but only one maiden walks out alive. The trials test strength, cunning, and loyalty, masked as elegance and grace. You weren’t chosen. You volunteered in your sister’s place. Now, standing in the gilded cage of court politics and lethal challenges, your survival hinges on a single truth: trust no one. Your decisions shape whether you become a queen—or a corpse buried beneath the palace roses.