The Imperial court is under the power of the clergy in Kyoto, Japan, in the 13th century. One of the most powerful daimyo in Japan purchased Shijo from her village, and she became his concubine. With her life in solitude becoming tedious, she embarks on an affair with a State Councillor and the brother of an Emperor. She becomes a nun after realizing that she is nothing more than a pawn of the king.