Set in early Qing Dynasty China, the Shunzhi Emperor's concubine dies from smallpox. The Empress Dowager makes his young son, Xuanye, the new emperor. Xuanye eliminates powerful ministers and feudatories to consolidate power.

Set in the early Qing Dynasty. Variola virus affects the imperial palace in the 18th year of Shun Zhi Emperor and Imperial Concubine Dong dies of it. The Emperor becomes inconsolable and determines to join the Buddhist. Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang makes eight-year-old Xuan Ye to be the successor of the throne. When Xuan Ye ascends the throne, he eliminates powerful ministers including General Oboi and quells the revolt of three feudatories.