The narrative opens in ancient China during the Sung Dynasty. The nation is engulfed in severe turmoil caused by the notorious Jin Kang Rebellion. Terrified of the inevitable devastation, Concubine Liu tearfully entrusts her infant daughter, Princess Yi Fu, to the care of a commoner named Tang Hui. Tang Hui promptly flees south with the princess. Consequently, Princess Yi Fu's location becomes a mystery.... Ten years later, the Tang dynasty has regained power, and the imperial family demands the return of all exiled members. However, Zi Li is content with her current life. She understands that returning would mean sacrificing her love; a peasant could never court a princess.... Moreover, a romance between a princess and a palace warrior is equally discouraged. Yet, this does little to dampen the passion burning within Zhong Lu—a renowned warrior tasked with locating and restoring the princess to the throne.