In Part 5 of the story of Hadassah, after the deposition of Queen Vashti, King Ahasuerus of Persia seeks a new queen. His officials suggest gathering beautiful young virgins from across the empire. Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, is among the selected candidates and taken to the king's palace.

 

Esther wins the favor of the king and is chosen to be the new queen. However, she keeps her Jewish identity a secret, following Mordecai's advice.

 

Mordecai uncovers a conspiracy against the king by two of the king's eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh. He reveals the plot to Esther, who convinces him to report this to the captain of the king’s guard. The plot is foiled and the conspirators are executed.