15 parts Ongoing In a world where The Selection never existed, the Schreave royal children-Prince Maxon and his younger sister, Princess Evelyn-are raised with the expectation of choosing their own spouses.
King Clarkson and Queen Amberly still rule Illéa with a firm yet beloved presence, and the future of the monarchy rests on Maxon's shoulders.
However, without The Selection to guide him, Maxon faces political pressure from the advisors and nobility to choose a strategic marriage, while Evelyn-spirited, intelligent, and somewhat rebellious-wants nothing to do with tradition.
Meanwhile, in the background, America Singer, a musician from the lower castes, still catches Maxon's eye in an unexpected encounter at the palace during an event.
Without the structured Selection process, their romance unfolds more naturally-though it is no less complicated, especially with Aspen Leger still in the picture.
The lack of a formal Selection also means that other noble families are actively vying for Maxon's attention, leading to court intrigue, jealousy, and political maneuvering.
Evelyn, on the other hand, is determined to forge her own path, possibly seeking love outside of noble circles, much to her parents' dismay.
She forms an unlikely friendship with Marlee Tames, a young noblewoman who sympathizes with her frustration over courtly expectations, and together they challenge Illéa's rigid customs.
As tensions rise within the palace-especially with rebels growing bolder-Maxon must decide whether to follow his heart or choose duty, while Evelyn fights for her own version of freedom.
