Thalia Roem Gierta, an unfortunate imperial princess born from an affair, grows up twisted amid neglectful parents, hostile half-siblings, and servants who despise her. To protect herself, she keeps everyone at a distance—until she becomes vulnerable before one man: Varkas Raedgo Siarkan, the noble heir of the East. Raised under harsh expectations and stripped of emotion, he lives only for duty and family honor. Bound by a promise, he becomes engaged to Thalia’s half-sister, pushing Thalia further into despair—until her doomed love takes an unexpected turn.