In the imperial court, a selection is held to choose new consorts for a young emperor already bound by marriage. Among the chosen women are Lady Shen Ruyi, a sharp-tongued daughter of a fallen martial clan, and Su Wenxue, a gentle, beloved commoner praised for her virtue. While Wenxue wins favor through humility and carefully crafted innocence, Ruyi is branded cold and dangerous for her refusal to flatter or submit. The Empress openly supports Wenxue, while the Emperor is drawn to her softness.