Kazunomiya, along with her royal family, is thought to be a divinity, descended from the goddess of the sun, and she lives an extremely sheltered life. However, when a Japanese general signs a treaty with the white-faced men from America , uncertainty and turmoil erupt in the kingdom. But the external threats do not compare to the tangled intrigue, romance, and politics that dominate the imperial palace, as wives and queens plot to destroy Kazunomiya and her mother.

		Yayoi March 7, 1858 As the maids spread out the kimonos, we welcomed back the colors…of spring, like old friends. For only now may we begin to wear them. But during the tea party I am feeling all the while that this talk of silks and colors and painted blossom covers up something. It is what is not being said that is perhaps the most disturbing. I feel that these women know something I do not…There is a shrillness to Lady Tomaki’s laughter that seems not quite natural…And there is absolutely no talk of the prince, my future husband. It is so obvious to me that I dare not ask about him.