After the death of the Count of Cevitas, Rieta Tristi faces the ancient ritual of vivisepulture, where she is to be buried alive to join him in death. In a time of plague and personal loss, Rieta is asked to sacrifice herself alongside the man responsible for her daughter's enslavement. However, the ceremony is disrupted by the mysterious and feared Archduke of Axias Manor, known for his brutal reputation. Intrigued by Rieta's somber presence, the Archduke intervenes and offers her a chance at life by becoming his companion in exchange for a debt settlement. Transitioning from a condemned fate to a new role at the Archduke's side, Rieta, skilled in magic, uses her powers to bring blessings to the castle's inhabitants. As she navigates her new position, Rieta delves into understanding the enigmatic Archduke, who displays unexpected kindness towards her in a world fraught with darkness.