She was intended for the emperor but died at the bottom of a cliff near Prince Atsuhira's private villa. The palace covered up the scandal. Months later, Akitada is drawn into the case when his best friend is accused of plotting against the emperor. Atsuhira, his alleged co-conspirator, refuses to defend himself. The mystery of the lady's death unravels slowly, bringing danger to Akitada, whose household is already threatened by an ill-fated relationship...