Brooke Quinn, a maid, and her sister, Willow Quinn, were framed by favored consort Vanessa Lockwood. Willow died saving Brooke. Brooke was disfigured, stabbed, and abandoned, but survived. Brooke changed her name and identity. She navigated the inner palace, regained the Emperor's favor, healed her face, and eliminated enemies Jade and Vanessa Lockwood. She supported her adopted son, Henry, to the throne, becoming the Empress Dowager who controlled imperial power.