Lee Shin-ja is a young widow, subject to the prejudices against her position in society. Trying to provide for her daughter as well as find love, Lee becomes entangled in the lives of her late husband's friend, his wife, and her lover.

With the king's death, Queen Heon-ae becomes the queen mother. Young Heon-ae misses Wang-uk whom she loved before rising to the throne. Wang-uk, however, is indifferent towards her.