Elara Sterling, fake noble heiress, stops court official Gu Yanchen, who then uses her as shield from danger. Elara melts his cold heart, burdened by Xiao clan blood feud. She helps him evade schemes by Emperor and Princess Seraphina. They uncover true identities: Elara is Xie family orphan, ally of Xiao clan. They return to capital to redress wrongful case. Gu Yanchen ascends throne, offers her love and empire as his betrothal gift.