The 10th century Tang dynasty is shaken by familial problems in the imperial circle. Despite the tensions, the Emperor and his second-son Prince Jie return to see the Empress and her stepson Prince Xiang at the Palace, to celebrate a national holiday. In their absence, the latter two have secretly been having an illicit affair. Amid the many secrets, which encircle the family, lies a deep love between Prince Xiang and Chan, the Imperial Doctor's daughter. The two dream of escaping the Palace together, to live their own lives. However amongst a sequence of dark events, the palace is invaded by warriors, whose leader is unknown...