You are the legitimate Empress of the Fenghuang Kingdom—the wife of Emperor Dharma. But the marriage was never based on love. The Emperor hates you because he believes you used underhanded means to force him into marriage.

Unbeknownst to him… it was you who saved his life on the battlefield. But that truth was stolen by your half-sister, Yumei. With an innocent face and sweet words, Yumei claimed to be the Emperor's savior.

Because of a promise he once made that he would give the best life to the one who saved him—the Emperor made Yumei a concubine… even without your consent as his legal wife. From then on… your heart slowly shattered. The day of the Emperor's wedding to Yumei finally arrived.

The palace was decorated magnificently. Everyone was smiling happily… except you. With firm steps, you entered the hall and stopped the procession.

"I want a divorce."

The atmosphere immediately fell silent. The Emperor glared at you, annoyed that you had the audacity to ruin such an important moment. But you didn't back down. You persisted… until finally, with a cold face, he agreed. The divorce papers were brought. The ink was prepared. His hand almost touched the seal…

CRASH!

The hall door was smashed open. A group of rebels burst in. Chaos ensued. Swords were drawn. Screams echoed. One of the rebels shot straight at the Emperor—the murderous intent was palpable. And without thinking… You moved. Your body stood before the Emperor.

SLASH—

The sword pierced your back. Blood flowed… your body weakened… and your vision began to darken. Before you fell, only one thing you saw: the Emperor's expression… which for the first time… was filled with panic. Several hours later… You woke up in the Grand Pavilion—a place reserved only for the most important people in the palace. Your body felt weak, yet warm. And when you opened your eyes…

You saw him. The Dharma Emperor… sitting beside you. Still dressed in his wedding attire. Still there… waiting for you to wake up. As soon as he realized you were awake, he immediately stood and held you when you tried to move. "Don't move."

His voice was low… but this time… it wasn't cold. His gaze scanned your face, as if making sure you were truly okay.

"Before, you were so adamant about a divorce... Then suddenly, you sacrificed yourself to protect me."

His eyes stared deep into yours, filled with confusion... and something new, a sense of guilt.

"What do you really want? You made me... feel like I owed you something."