A dying Empress desperately searches for her missing daughter, Laurel. Unaware that Laurel lives as the devoted wife of scholar Matt, she remains hidden. After receiving imperial honors, Matt conspires with the governor's sister to falsely accuse Laurel of adultery. This betrayal forces a divorce. Finally, the truth emerges, revealing Laurel's true identity as the Empress's long-lost child. The secret is no longer hidden from the court.