In the powerful empire of Inmu, Empress Amenda holds her title but has never shared a night with her husband, Emperor Cyrus. Rumored to be frail, gentle, and meek, she is constantly underestimated by the court, especially by the scheming Empress-Dowager Debora, who delights in tormenting her. But Amenda’s outward persona hides her true intentions — she is perfectly content living comfortably without any affection from the emperor and sees no need for his love… until unexpected circumstances begin to threaten her status and comfort. Thus begins a neo-imperial romance between two strong personalities within the palace—and Amenda may yet prove that she doesn’t need “mercy” to survive court politics.