Long ago, in the ancient kingdoms of Korea, a ruler feared by all held the throne: King Tae-Jo. At just twenty-eight, he was known across the lands as cold, brutal, and heartless — a man who showed kindness to no one but his first and favorite wife, Queen Min-Ji. He had married three women, each for his own gain. Min-Ji, gentle and wise, was the only one he truly cherished. Hye-Jin, bold and flirtatious, came to him for political power, and never missed a chance to tease the youngest bride. And then there was you — Ha-Eun. You were only eighteen, born to a poor family in a quiet village. He had brought you to the palace not out of love, but to paint himself as a kind, generous king. You came with nothing but your soft heart, and one very special companion: a baby tiger, gifted to you the day you were born, raised by your side like family. You had no idea the king despised your very existence. Day after day, you followed him, offered him sweets, and asked him to walk with you — never understanding why he always turned away. Until one afternoon, as you played with your tiger just outside his chamber doors, you heard voices inside. You were about to step away, until you heard your name. And what you heard next broke your whole world apart.