Being a Hero Recap, Plot, Synopsis

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Being a Hero Synopsis

Three years ago, Wu Gang was killed by a drug cartel named" K". His son, Wu Zhenfeng, was expelled from the police force for recklessness and indiscipline. Wu Zhenfeng is heartbroken and is prevented from leaving the country by his brother Chen Yu. On the way, they are nearly hijacked. To save Chen Yu, Wu Zhenfeng is taken away by drug dealers. Since then, they have never heard from each other again.

Three years later, Chen Yu becomes anti-drug police. But unexpectedly Wu Zhenfeng returns and is involved in a murder case. After Wu Zhenfeng is purged of suspicion, Chen Yu discovers that he is connected to the drug cartel. To catch all of the drug-traffickers, Chen Yu start a new career in the anti-drug field. At the same time, he finds that Wu Zhenfeng is the lone hero lurking in the cartel.

Chen Yu and Wu Zhenfeng fight side by side to wipe out the cartel under the Ministry of Public Security's deployment. The two brothers continue to work in the public security anti-drug cause, never forgetting their original intentions and remembering their mission.

Being a Hero Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

Chen Yu was jolted awake from a nightmare, struggling to catch his breath. In his dream, two people were chasing each other in a weedy forest during a thunderstorm, and one of them fell into a cold lake. He drank from a bottle of ice water, calming himself before habitually checking the time: 5:30 AM, when his phone suddenly rang, and he answered with a worried expression.

Chen Yu and Officer Liu Guang from Dexi Police Station in Yunhe County arrived at the Taste Restaurant crime scene. The owner, Yang Shengguang, explained to the police that he was not involved in the incident, rarely visited the restaurant, only coming for collections. Chen Yu asked Yang Shengguang to cut vegetables to observe his knife skills.

Director Wang Kai, Chen Yu's superior, arrived and reprimanded him for not doing proper work and not questioning the case in the right manner. Liu Kaihua, the captain of the anti-narcotics brigade, also arrived. Chen Yu hastily showed him some items collected from the scene, including what appeared to be Magu. As some items were unfamiliar, Liu Kaihua instructed Officer Leng Feng to take the unknown yellow substance for analysis.

Chen Yu presented his initial findings, believing the stabbing was a spur-of-the-moment act, not premeditated murder, as only one deboning knife from the set of tools had bloodstains. He also noted variations in shoe print depth, suggesting the assailant was left-handed. He had tested this theory on Yang Shengguang, whose right-handedness and shoe prints did not match the crime scene, effectively clearing him.

Officers then discovered a fragment of a green jade pendant, which Chen Yu examined thoughtfully, realizing it was likely part of a pair. Chen Yu was eager to share more insights but was sent out by Director Wang to investigate dashcam footage outside. Liu Kaihua suggested transferring Chen Yu back to the anti-narcotics brigade, arguing that three years of punishment was enough and they couldn't continue to waste such talent. However, Director Wang insisted Liu Kaihua follow proper transfer procedures.

Chen Yu went to the Public Security Bureau to meet Director Lin Dezan. Outside, he saw his former captain, Gong Wei, guarding the gate, which brought a mix of emotions. Lin Dezan questioned Chen Yu about his transfer to the police station, noting that his qualifications as a top student in anti-narcotics should have led to a better posting. Chen Yu seemed hesitant to discuss his past mission, but Lin Dezan strongly pressed him to recount the events.

Three years ago, Chen Yu was speaking with Wu Zhenfeng in his office when he received an urgent call about an arrest mission. Due to his carelessness, Wu Zhenfeng overheard that the target, Du Dajun, was connected to the murder of Wu Zhenfeng's father, Wu Gang. Chen Yu locked Wu Zhenfeng in the office, ordering him to stay put, and then left.

At the arrest site, the police had set up a thorough containment, waiting for both parties of the drug deal to arrive before moving in. Unexpectedly, Wu Zhenfeng appeared at the scene, disrupting the entire operation. His interference led to chaos and caused Gong Wei to be severely injured, resulting in a lifelong disability that forced him to retire from frontline duties.

Lin Dezan, who had commanded that ill-fated mission, understood the circumstances but still pushed Chen Yu to recount it, hoping to help him overcome his psychological burden and rejoin the anti-narcotics brigade. Chen Yu, having faced his past, reaffirmed his commitment to duty. Deputy Chief Chen Liwen from the Provincial Public Security Department personally arrived at Yunhe County Public Security Bureau to guide the investigation into Hu Qingshan's murder at Taste Restaurant.

Liu Kaihua provided a summary of the case, suggesting it was linked to a drug transaction and a new type of synthetic drug. Chen Yu, however, discovered a distinct tattoo on the victim's body that matched one found on "Drug Three," a suspect from the Wu Gang case three years prior. He boldly theorized that Hu Qingshan and "Drug Three" belonged to the same drug trafficking organization or shared a significant connection.

Chen Yu proposed linking this case with the unsolved Wu Gang case, citing that Wu Zhenfeng's unexpected appearance during the arrest of "Drug Three" had ruined the operation and severed all leads. Chen Liwen approved the joint investigation and set a strict deadline of one week for progress, staying in Yunhe for the week. Following this, new officers, Zhou Bowen and Lin Qiang, were introduced to the anti-narcotics brigade by Lin Dezan and welcomed by Deputy Captain Liang Hao.

Chen Yu officially reported back to Liu Kaihua under Lin Dezan's observation. Meanwhile, drug dealer Lao Zhang covertly visited drug dealer Ba Peng at Yunhui Pharmacy to borrow money. Ba Peng, annoyed by Lao Zhang's outstanding debts, was told by Lao Zhang that Hu Qingshan was dead and that "Dahuang capsules" would inevitably increase in price, allowing Lao Zhang to pay off his debts. Suddenly, Wu Zhenfeng entered and immediately shut the pharmacy door without a word, demanding "Dahuang capsules."

Ba Peng tried to deny selling drugs, but Wu Zhenfeng revealed he had bought drugs from Huang Daxian previously, and Ba Peng had delivered them. Recalling Wu Zhenfeng, Ba Peng pulled a knife and attacked him. A struggle ensued, but Ba Peng and Lao Zhang together were no match for Wu Zhenfeng, who forced them to reveal the drugs' location.

Wu Zhenfeng took the drugs, telling Ba Peng to call him "Feng Ge" from now on when they meet, and then left. Liu Kaihua received an anonymous tip transferred from 110 regarding drugs hidden in Yunhui Pharmacy. He quickly assembled officers and rushed to the location. As Chen Yu briefly crossed paths with Lin Dezan, he suddenly recalled seeing a Yunhui Pharmacy shopping bag on Lin Dezan's desk. Meanwhile, Ba Peng also received a notification that the police were approaching.

He hastily divided the remaining "Dahuang capsules" with Lao Zhang and let him leave. Wu Zhenfeng, meanwhile, was covertly observing everything from a distance. When the police arrived and began their search, Ba Peng vehemently asserted his pharmacy was a legitimate business. However, Chen Yu discovered a "Dahuang capsule" in a drawer, leading to Ba Peng's immediate arrest.

Simultaneously, Lao Zhang called Huang Wenlin, whose nickname was "Huang Daxian," informing him about the raid on Ba Peng's pharmacy and opportunistically requesting to take over Ba Peng's position. Huang Wenlin not only refused but also demanded that Lao Zhang settle his outstanding payments within three days, accusing him of breaking the rules. Lin Dezan was eavesdropping on Ba Peng's interrogation from outside when Chen Yu unexpectedly appeared behind him and asked if he knew the person being questioned.

Lin Dezan was briefly surprised but quickly regained his composure. Ultimately, Ba Peng did not provide any significant information, claiming the capsules were merely ordinary fake medicine he had bought from another county. He was subsequently released.

Episode 2 Recap

Chen Yu reports to Lin Dezan that he found jade fragments at the Hu Qingshan murder scene. He explains that the fragment matches a jade pendant given to him by Wu Gang, who was in the jade business. Wu Gang had given an identical pendant to his son, Wu Zhenfeng, when they were children. Believing this proves Wu Zhenfeng has returned, Chen Yu requests to merge the Hu Qingshan murder case with Wu Gang's three-year-old case.

Lin Dezan simply instructs him to file the evidence. After leaving the station, Ba Peng calls his superior, Huang Daxian, who orders him to arrange for "Feng Ge" to be permanently silenced. Huang Daxian clarifies that Ba Peng is not to kill him but to frame him for Hu Qingshan's murder and set him up for a police bust, forcing him to bring all his drugs to the scene.

Following these orders, Ba Peng calls Lin Dezan, claiming he has found Hu Qingshan's killer, a man known as "Feng Ge," and has arranged to meet him that night. Chen Yu covertly monitors Ba Peng, following him to a deserted chemical plant. He contacts his colleague, asking him to request backup but to report the situation "only" to Liu Kaihua, as he suspects a leak within the department.

Inside the plant, Ba Peng and his associates plot to subdue Wu Zhenfeng and frame him with the drugs. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Chen Liwen reprimands Lin Dezan, noting that the anti-drug situation in Yunhe has worsened during Lin Dezan's three years as director. Lin Dezan defends his meticulous "slow-cook soup" strategy, explaining he aims to map out and dismantle Yunhe's entire drug trafficking network before he retires.

As Wu Zhenfeng confronts Ba Peng and his men at the plant, Liu Kaihua arrives with police support. Chen Yu and Liu Kaihua rush in to make arrests, but Wu Zhenfeng escapes in the chaos. To destroy evidence, Ba Peng's men douse the trunk of a car filled with drugs in gasoline and set it on fire. As he flees, Wu Zhenfeng glances back at the officers battling the blaze.

An enraged Lin Dezan arrives and berates Liu Kaihua for launching a major operation without reporting it, accusing them of disrupting his month-long plan and demanding written self-critiques from everyone involved. At the scene, Chen Yu finds another jade pendant. He presents it to Lin Dezan, along with the fragment from the first crime scene, as proof that Wu Zhenfeng was present at both locations. He once again insists on merging the cases and issuing a warrant for Wu Zhenfeng.

Lin Dezan furiously rejects the request, arguing that a jade pendant is not definitive proof, as it could have been lost, stolen, or sold. He lectures Chen Yu on the difference between conjecture and hard evidence, stating that what one sees isn't always the truth and a single item does not form a complete evidence chain. After the heated exchange, Lin Dezan apologizes for his tone, but Chen Yu leaves the office angered.

Lin Dezan recalls an incident from three years ago: after Wu Gang's death, he informed Wu Zhenfeng that an autopsy was necessary due to the discovery of ten kilograms of heroin at the scene, implying his father was a drug dealer. The accusation caused Wu Zhenfeng to lash out, claiming Lin Dezan was the one who should be investigated, as drug trafficking had only grown more rampant during his tenure. Troubled, Lin Dezan calls Liu Kaihua for a meeting.

Elsewhere, Yang Ling waits to celebrate Chen Yu's return to the anti-drug squad, but he is visibly preoccupied, replaying Lin Dezan's questionable words and behavior in his mind. Lin Dezan meets with Liu Kaihua and explains his actions. He reveals he went to Ba Peng, knowing he possessed "Dahuang" capsules, and used this as leverage to pressure him into investigating the source of the drugs and the details of Hu Qingshan's murder, hoping to uncover the entire trafficking network.

Lin Dezan also admits he was the one who tipped Ba Peng off about the earlier police search of his pharmacy, causing Liu Kaihua to question his superior's methods and demand a credible explanation. Meanwhile, Chen Yu confides in Yang Ling about the events three years ago. He recounts how Wu Zhenfeng overheard the plan for an arrest operation targeting his father's suspected killer.

By interfering, Wu Zhenfeng caused the mission to fail, which led to officer Gong Wei being severely injured and Chen Yu's own suspension from the anti-drug squad. Seeking to make Wu Zhenfeng answer for his actions, Chen Yu tracked him down abroad. During a struggle on a bus, they bumped into a man, revealing he was armed. Chen Yu warned Wu Zhenfeng that the man was targeting him.

When they tried to get off, they were ambushed by other passengers, revealing the bus was full of traffickers. The ensuing fight led Chen Yu to conclude that Wu Zhenfeng must have discovered a critical clue, making him a target.

Episode 3 Recap

Late one night, narcotics police officer Zhou Bowen was busy at his computer, logged into Ba Peng's account, when he received a message. Simultaneously, Wu Zhenfeng, hiding in a corner and eating instant noodles, received the very same message on his phone. Back in the past, a confrontation unfolded on a bus. Drug dealers, men loyal to K, appeared and demanded everyone get off and squat down.

One of them, Wang Yikun, identified Wu Zhenfeng and questioned if he knew who to find in Mengka, revealing that the head of Mengka was called Erliang. Wu Zhenfeng recognized Wang Yikun as one of K's men and questioned if his father's death was their doing. Wang Yikun refused to answer, only demanding Wu Zhenfeng hand over "the stuff" he took from his father. When Wu Zhenfeng hesitated, Wang Yikun fired his gun to threaten the passengers.

Chen Yu quickly intervened, holding Wang Yikun hostage and forcing the other drug dealers to back off, allowing him to escape with Wu Zhenfeng. As they fled through dense bush, numerous pursuers were close behind.

Chen Yu desperately urged Wu Zhenfeng to return with him to explain everything, but Wu Zhenfeng adamantly refused, asserting that the ongoing pursuit proved he was on the right track and he would not stop until he uncovered the truth, even if it meant risking his life. Chen Yu warned him that he would die if he continued. As their pursuers closed in, Wu Zhenfeng suddenly pushed Chen Yu away, broke free, and jumped into deep water.

Chen Yu immediately followed, but Wu Zhenfeng managed to elude him, though Chen Yu did retrieve a jade pendant from the water. Upon his return, Chen Yu faced disciplinary action for his unauthorized border crossing, resulting in his transfer from the investigation team to a local police station for three years. Although he kept his police uniform due to his youth, he felt deep regret.

He believed that if he hadn't allowed Wu Zhenfeng to overhear a phone call, Captain Gong would not have been injured, and perhaps the truth would have been uncovered sooner, preventing the current rampant drug problem in Yunhe. Meanwhile, Director Lin Dezan discussed a plan with Liu Kaihua. He tasked Liu Kaihua with discreetly investigating whether Wu Zhenfeng had returned to the country by checking with the Exit and Entry Administration Bureau.

Lin Dezan specifically instructed Liu Kaihua not to involve Chen Yu, fearing his impulsiveness might jeopardize the operation, especially given Chen Yu's past mistakes. Liu Kaihua acknowledged the need to gather clues about Wu Zhenfeng's activities over the past three years. After careful consideration, Wu Zhenfeng made a call to Erliang. He informed Erliang that Dong Ge knew he was in Yunhe, which was in turmoil. He spoke of someone secretly manufacturing a new drug behind Dong Ge's back.

Wu Zhenfeng proposed that if he could find the upstream distributor of this new drug and use it as a "proof of loyalty," Dong Ge would surely have to meet him. Erliang inquired about his progress, to which Wu Zhenfeng explained that the drug manufacturer he'd found had inexplicably died, and he himself had narrowly escaped a trap set to turn him over to the police.

Erliang warned him to be cautious and to complete his task quickly, suggesting he return if things didn't work out. However, Wu Zhenfeng insisted on trying again. After hanging up, Erliang commented to Qiong Jie that Wu Zhenfeng, whom he had saved from K's hands three years prior, had proven to be capable, and he hadn't saved the wrong person. He noted Dong Ge's firm refusal to cooperate with them again.

Qiong Jie calmly asserted that all business could be negotiated, though the price might be steep. Erliang expressed concern about their accumulated goods and the growing uneasiness among their people. Qiong Jie firmly stated that no matter the difficulty, this business had to be discussed; there was no room for negotiation or retreat. The two then rose, with dozens of their associates standing in unison to follow them. In a police briefing, officers reported on their investigation.

Genetic comparison confirmed that hair found at Xiangwei Restaurant did not belong to the deceased Ba Peng or his recently arrested accomplices, Zhang Xiaohui and Liu Yuan. Furthermore, drug samples from a chemical factory and the restaurant were identified as the same new type of drug: "Big Yellow Capsules." The team suggested investigating the raw materials.

It was also reported that a jade pendant, similar to one found in the bus incident, was discovered at the chemical factory, though its owner remained unconfirmed. Zhou Bowen then presented his findings from Ba Peng's recovered phone. He revealed that a QQ group for "Imported Milk Powder Purchasing" was a front for drug transactions, where "cans" and "bags" represented retail or bulk purchases, and prices hinted at the cost of "Big Yellow Capsules."

The "express tracking numbers" shared by the seller were actually coded transaction details. Zhou Bowen explained that a string like "08111130889" meant the transaction would occur at 11:30 AM on August 11th, at Nancheng Bus Station, specifically the 9th stop of Route 88.

Despite the inability to trace the sellers' identities or locations due to fake overseas IP registrations, Lin Dezan, acknowledging the urgency of their one-month deadline, ordered Liu Kaihua to proceed with an undercover operation at the Nancheng Bus Station. New, unrecognized officers would lead the charge, with others, including Lan Anran and Qiangzi, taking supporting roles. At the Nancheng Bus Station, undercover police officers were in position.

Wu Zhenfeng also arrived and observed Chen Yu, disguised as a sanitation worker, among the hidden police presence. Wu Zhenfeng then approached a black Hyundai sedan and addressed its occupant, Jiang Lei, stating that he knew someone was making drugs behind Dong Ge's back and could find them, but he expected Dong Ge to grant him a meeting.

This echoed a past encounter three years prior, when Jiang Lei had violently warned Wu Zhenfeng not to reappear in Yunhe after a similar demand for a meeting. Lan Anran, observing from surveillance, reported the suspicious conversation between the man outside and the man inside the black car. Liu Kaihua instructed her to maintain surveillance without alerting anyone, aiming for a red-handed arrest during the transaction.

Wu Zhenfeng then revealed to Jiang Lei that the police had set up surveillance, pointing out several disguised officers. To test Wu Zhenfeng's claim, Jiang Lei had his subordinate attempt to pick up goods from "Huang Daxian," while he secretly called his "Uncle," Liu Kaihua, asking about his location, specifically Nancheng Station, under the guise of asking him to bring food. Liu Kaihua's simple "Okay, got it" response inadvertently confirmed his presence near the station, verifying Wu Zhenfeng's warning.

Jiang Lei, recognizing Wu Zhenfeng's resourcefulness and connections, refused his request to meet Dong Ge. He then kicked Wu Zhenfeng out of the car, warning him to leave Yunhe. Jiang Lei also warned Wu Zhenfeng that he would be implicated in Lao Ba's (Ba Peng's) death if he was caught with goods, implying Wu Zhenfeng had nothing to gain from staying.

At that moment, Chen Yu, who had been maintaining his position, recognized Wu Zhenfeng and broke cover to pursue him. Liu Kaihua, alarmed by Chen Yu's impulsive move, immediately instructed other units to hold their positions, allowing only officers in sanitation worker disguises to join the chase, to avoid alerting the remaining suspects involved in the transaction, who quickly dispersed. Chen Yu, who had lost his earpiece during the chase, chased Wu Zhenfeng onto a rooftop, cornering him at gunpoint.

Wu Zhenfeng, however, used the reflection from a mirror above to momentarily blind Chen Yu, then swiftly jumped from the building to escape. Chen Yu, unable to prevent his escape, returned to face a stern reprimand from Liu Kaihua. Liu Kaihua criticized Chen Yu for leaving his post and for failing to apprehend Wu Zhenfeng despite drawing his weapon.

Chen Yu defended himself, explaining that he had fired warning shots and consciously avoided using lethal force because Wu Zhenfeng was the sole remaining lead, and he intended to capture him alive. Following this incident, Liu Kaihua authorized an arrest warrant for Wu Zhenfeng. Soon after, the police received a tip-off from a neighborhood committee: a new tenant matching Wu Zhenfeng's description had recently moved into an old residential building within their jurisdiction.

Liu Kaihua quickly mobilized his team, emphasizing that the suspect might be armed. However, Wu Zhenfeng had already left the area by bus, unknowingly passing the responding police vehicles. Wu Zhenfeng later surrendered himself at a police station. Officers confirmed that two "Big Yellow Capsules" were found at his residence, and his fingerprints were discovered at the scene of Hu Qingshan's death, effectively closing that murder case.

Chen Liwen, upon receiving the news, ordered an immediate, overnight interrogation of Wu Zhenfeng, demanding a complete and flawless report on the drug syndicate, manufacturing site, and main culprits. During the interrogation, Wu Zhenfeng displayed a defiant attitude. He revealed that he had originally intended to surrender at the Dexi District Police Station, assuming Chen Yu was still stationed there.

When questioned about his presence at the Nancheng Bus Station, Wu Zhenfeng admitted he went there to "get some goods" because he was experiencing withdrawal symptoms. He confirmed that the transaction was supposed to take place at the bus station, not in a car, as clearly stated in the QQ group the police had already monitored. He maintained that he was simply kicked out by someone, implying he wasn't part of the direct transaction.

Chen Yu, visibly emotional during the questioning, was sternly ordered by Liu Kaihua to leave the interrogation room. Meanwhile, in the monitoring room, police officer Lan Anran, while reviewing surveillance footage, began to suspect something. She then asked for directions to a restroom.

Episode 4 Recap

After Chen Yu left the interrogation room, Liu Kaihua questioned Wu Zhenfeng about why Chen Yu hadn't arrested him at the scene. Chen Yu, overhearing, was momentarily stunned. Wu Zhenfeng, in turn, challenged Liu Kaihua, asking if he didn't trust Chen Yu. Lin Dezan, clarifying the situation, stated it was merely standard procedure. Chen Yu, however, expressed his true intention: he wanted Wu Zhenfeng to be brought to justice alive.

Later, Lan Anran, reviewing surveillance footage from a noodle shop next to Yunhui Pharmacy, discovered something significant: Lin Dezan's figure. Unsure who else to report to, she immediately sought out Chen Liwen, carrying the video with her. In the interrogation, Wu Zhenfeng recounted going to an abandoned chemical plant in the development zone to "buy drugs" from Ba Peng.

He admitted that he had reported Ba Peng's pharmacy because he found "Da Huang" capsules there, seeing it as an act of revenge against Huang Daxian. He explained that the day before, Huang Daxian had refused to sell him drugs and had him beaten by his subordinates. Wu Zhenfeng then claimed Huang Daxian instructed him to meet Ba Peng at the abandoned factory for a transaction.

Upon arrival, Ba Peng allegedly informed him that they intended to frame him for the murder at Weixiang Restaurant. Wu Zhenfeng vehemently denied killing Ba Peng. Simultaneously, a forensic report was delivered to Chen Liwen, confirming that hair found at the Weixiang Restaurant murder scene and fingerprints on the murder weapon both belonged to Wu Zhenfeng. Around the same time, Lan Anran again approached Chen Liwen, stating she was unsure who else to report to regarding her findings.

A flashback then revealed Lan Anran's past: Lin Dezan had previously lectured her after she, as a student, apprehended a drug dealer, questioning why she put herself in such danger. Lan Anran disclosed that her parents had died two years prior, victims of a drug-impaired driver, which fueled her determination. Lin Dezan, recognizing her resolve, encouraged her to pursue anti-drug enforcement in police academy, believing she could balance emotion with duty.

Lan Anran affirmed her understanding of her responsibilities as a police officer. Chen Yu brought a fragment of a jade pendant, informing Wu Zhenfeng it was found at Hu Qingshan's death scene. Wu Zhenfeng initially denied knowing Hu Qingshan or ever being at Weixiang Restaurant, but then admitted he was there and claimed the pendant broke during a struggle with Hu Qingshan.

He explained he had gone to Weixiang to find Hu Qingshan, who was also a drug dealer, hoping to locate Dong Ge. Hu Qingshan denied knowing Dong Ge's whereabouts and, fearing Dong Ge's wrath for his independent dealing, threatened Wu Zhenfeng. Their confrontation escalated into a fight. Wu Zhenfeng then altered his account, claiming he had gone to Hu Qingshan to buy drugs. He asserted that Hu Qingshan had drugged his drink, causing him to black out.

While he couldn't recall the events that followed, he vehemently denied killing Hu Qingshan. He stated he surrendered upon seeing the police's wanted notice, expressing faith in the authorities to prove his innocence. Police confirmed that the alarm call reporting the incident at Ba Peng's pharmacy was indeed made by Wu Zhenfeng, shortly after he was seen entering, a fight ensuing, and his subsequent departure from the premises.

However, Chen Yu expressed skepticism, questioning why a drug user would report their own dealer, and noted that Wu Zhenfeng had yet to explain how he knew Hu Qingshan. Chen Yu suspected that Wu Zhenfeng's actions were intrinsically linked to his father's death three years prior. Meanwhile, Wu Zhenfeng, aware that the police had located him, secretly called an individual named Erliang.

He informed Erliang of his discovery: a minor criminal, who had once worked for "K" and stolen from Dong Ge, was currently in a rehabilitation center. Wu Zhenfeng's plan was to find this person. Elsewhere, Huang Wenlin interrogated a man named Lao Zhang, who was trapped inside a barrel. Lao Zhang revealed that Jiang Lei was one of Dong Ge's people, having provided him with information.

Huang Wenlin then used firecrackers to torment Lao Zhang for failing to repay a debt. Meanwhile, Jiang Lei violently confronted Gou Sheng at his home, accusing him of betraying him to the police and demanding a debt of ten thousand yuan. Gou Sheng denied any betrayal, but acknowledged the debt as his mother desperately called the police.

Subsequent police investigation of surveillance footage from Yiming Chuanchuanxiang near Liugang Bridge corroborated Wu Zhenfeng's claim: he was indeed involved in a fight with two other individuals at 9:53 PM on August 9th, getting back up nearly an hour later at 10:47 PM. This timeline indicated he had no opportunity to murder Hu Qingshan.

The lead investigator, observing the two individuals' suspicious movements during the fight, hypothesized they might have been deliberately collecting Wu Zhenfeng's hair and fingerprints to frame him. This led to the conclusion that the real culprits in Hu Qingshan's murder were likely connected to these two individuals. Liu Kaihua then instructed Chen Yu and Lan Anran to re-interrogate Wu Zhenfeng to confirm if the individual involved in the fight, Huang Wenlin, was indeed the "Huang Daxian" he had previously mentioned.

Liu Kaihua received an urgent call from Police Station Chief Wang and immediately rushed to Gou Sheng's residence. Upon arrival, he found Gou Sheng injured and his mother distressed, furious at Jiang Lei. Liu Kaihua, visibly angered by his nephew's actions, restrained himself from striking him due to his police uniform. He profusely apologized to Gou Sheng's mother for Jiang Lei's misconduct and offered compensation for medical expenses, despite Gou Sheng himself admitting he owed Jiang Lei money.

Outside, Liu Kaihua delivered a kick to Jiang Lei, reprimanding him for his constant troublemaking. He implored Jiang Lei to avoid further incidents, especially before his planned visit to his mother, implying Jiang Lei's limited time there. Jiang Lei explained that his mother had given him 150,000 yuan for a motorcycle, of which 50,000 had been spent on daily expenses, and the remaining 100,000 was lent to Gou Sheng. Liu Kaihua accepted this explanation without suspicion.

Chen Yu and Lan Anran returned to interrogate Wu Zhenfeng, showing him a photograph of Huang Wenlin. Wu Zhenfeng confirmed that this individual was indeed the "Huang Daxian" he had mentioned. He reiterated the details of their confrontation at Yiming Chuanchuanxiang, explaining he had tried to buy "Da Huang" capsules from Huang Wenlin, but a dispute over price escalated into a fight, during which he believed Huang Wenlin drugged him, causing him to black out.

Wu Zhenfeng then suggested that this blackout period would have been the perfect opportunity for Huang Wenlin to frame him. He then revealed that Huang Wenlin had a base of operations at "Moyun Bar," where "Da Huang" capsules were also sold, though Huang Wenlin was not always present. Wu Zhenfeng expressed skepticism that the police would find any evidence there, citing the example of Ba Peng's store, where police found nothing despite him witnessing drugs there.

He implied there was an insider within the police force. Given Wu Zhenfeng's unreliable but potentially crucial information, Chen Yu and Lan Anran decided to investigate. Chen Yu brought Yang Yi along for backup, positioning him outside for support. Lan Anran, adopting the disguise of an escort, entered Moyun Bar, attempting to purchase drugs from Huang Wenlin. She claimed Ba Peng had referred her, but this immediately raised Huang Wenlin's suspicion, as he knew Ba Peng was unaware of that particular location.

Episode 5 Recap

Lan Anran pressed Chen Yu, questioning if he believed Wu Zhenfeng, especially after pharmacy surveillance footage revealed a prior leak to Lao Ba before their arrival. She pointed out the uncommon connection between Chen Yu and Wu Zhenfeng, noting that Chen Yu also possessed a jade pendant identical to Wu Zhenfeng's. She also questioned why Liu Kaihua had removed Chen Yu from the interrogation room the previous night.

Chen Yu explained that Wu Zhenfeng indicated Huang Wenlin likely operated Mo Yun Bar as a drug dealing front and might be there. He stressed the importance of verifying this information discreetly, fearing another leak similar to the failed Ba Peng (Lao Ba) operation. Recognizing their limited numbers, Chen Yu decided to involve Yang Yi, believing him to be trustworthy. When Yang Yi arrived, Chen Yu presented the unconfirmed lead about Huang Wenlin’s bar.

Yang Yi immediately suggested reporting such an important clue to their superiors. Chen Yu stopped him, reiterating that the information was unverified and a premature report could lead to another failure due to leaks. Despite Yang Yi’s persistent concerns about disciplinary issues, Chen Yu firmly insisted on verifying the information first before reporting, framing it as a crucial opportunity for them to prove themselves. They eventually agreed, with Yang Yi ensuring they would report any confirmed findings immediately.

Before entering the bar, Lan Anran was equipped with a listening device for their safety and to keep them informed of the situation inside. Inside Mo Yun Bar, Huang Wenlin, known as "Brother Xian," was seen negotiating with a Hong Kong drug dealer named "Brother Can."

Huang Wenlin offered to sell all his "big yellow capsules" at a low price of two million cash, citing a need to "run away" due to the precarious situation in Yunhe and the risk of operating within Hao Dong’s territory. He expressed urgency, explaining that this transaction had to be kept hidden from Hao Dong, with whom Brother Can had previously conducted business. Brother Can, wary, asked Huang Wenlin to secure a transaction location for the next day before committing.

Soon after Brother Can departed, Lan Anran entered the bar. She approached Huang Wenlin, claiming she used to source drugs from Lao Ba and that he had directed her there. Huang Wenlin, however, implied that Lao Ba was unaware of this particular location, raising immediate concerns for Chen Yu and Yang Yi listening outside. As they grew increasingly worried and contemplated intervening, Huang Wenlin became suspicious of Lan Anran and spotted the police outside.

He quickly ordered his men, including "Long Hair," to destroy all the "big yellow capsules" by lighting them. Just as the drugs were ignited with detonators, Chen Yu burst in. Acting swiftly, he grabbed one of the live detonators and threw it out of a window, averting a major explosion. Simultaneously, Liu Kaihua and his team arrived, securing the scene and apprehending Huang Wenlin and his accomplices.

Back at the station, Liu Kaihua severely reprimanded Chen Yu for his unauthorized actions, accusing him of being disorganized and undisciplined, especially after the incident was reported on the news. Lin Dezan echoed Liu Kaihua's sentiments, stressing the importance of reporting intelligence promptly and how Yang Yi’s prior report, despite their agreement not to, was fortunate. Yang Yi attempted to defend Chen Yu, suggesting he was just eager for merit after returning to the Anti-Narcotics Division.

This comment infuriated Chen Yu, but Lan Anran intervened, explaining their decision to act independently stemmed from the previous failed arrest of Lao Ba, hinting at an internal leak. Lin Dezan, visibly distressed, pressed them to reveal their suspicions, but they remained silent, lacking concrete evidence. Lin Dezan then instructed them to submit a thorough self-criticism. Despite the reprimand, Chen Yu remained convinced that Wu Zhenfeng withheld crucial information and requested to re-interrogate him.

Concurrently, Liu Kaihua questioned Huang Wenlin about his whereabouts on the night of the 9th, when Hu Qingshan was murdered. Huang Wenlin maintained that he was at "Yiming Skewers." Meanwhile, Chen Yu interrogated Wu Zhenfeng, informing him that Huang Wenlin denied being at "Weixiang Restaurant," thereby strengthening the evidence pointing to Wu Zhenfeng as Hu Qingshan's killer.

Wu Zhenfeng adamantly denied the murder, asserting that Huang Wenlin’s men had drugged him, causing him to lose consciousness, and he remembered nothing after that. He urged Chen Yu to believe in his innocence. Lan Anran and Liu Kaihua followed up on Huang Wenlin’s past employment at a pharmaceutical factory. They discovered that during his time as a warehouse manager, several thefts of controlled raw materials, key ingredients for "big yellow capsules," occurred.

The factory's deputy director, Li Zhengqiang, consistently covered up these incidents, dismissing them as minor losses without involving the police. Lan Anran retrieved records for Li Zhengqiang and found that the information aligned with what Wu Zhenfeng had previously stated, implicating Li Zhengqiang. This confirmed that Huang Wenlin and Li Zhengqiang had been using the factory as a cover to steal materials for illegal drug production.

Confronted with this overwhelming evidence, Huang Wenlin finally confessed, admitting that Li Zhengqiang was the one who killed Hu Qingshan. Huang Wenlin recounted the sequence of events from the night of the 9th. Li Zhengqiang, referred to as "Strong Brother," had called him, furious that "Brother Feng" (Wu Zhenfeng) was threatening to expose their drug manufacturing operation to Hao Dong. Li Zhengqiang resolved to eliminate Hu Qingshan.

Recognizing "Brother Feng" as Wu Zhenfeng, Huang Wenlin conspired with Li Zhengqiang to frame Wu Zhenfeng. They lured Wu Zhenfeng out, drugged his drink, and when he became aggressive, they beat him. Afterwards, they copied his fingerprints to plant them at the crime scene, effectively framing him for Hu Qingshan's murder. The underlying motive for killing Hu Qingshan was that Wu Zhenfeng, hailing from Mengka, intended to use Hao Dong’s distribution channels.

When Hao Dong refused, Li Zhengqiang and Huang Wenlin decided to offer their "big yellow capsules" as a "pledge of allegiance" to Hao Dong, leveraging the framed murder to their advantage. Separately, Hao Dong, also known as "Brother Dong," confronted Li Zhengqiang, holding him accountable for a past incident where Li Zhengqiang had caused another individual, Lao Zhang, to lose an arm. Hao Dong proceeded to assault Li Zhengqiang.

Under interrogation, Huang Wenlin disclosed Li Zhengqiang's current hiding place: an abandoned warehouse located on the east side of the pharmaceutical factory, where their remaining drug supply was also stored. Armed with this crucial intelligence, Chen Yu led a team, fully equipped, towards the location to apprehend Li Zhengqiang and secure the evidence.

Episode 6 Recap

After being cornered by Dongge's men at the abandoned pharmaceutical factory warehouse, Li Zhengqiang was beaten by Jiang Lei into submission, acknowledging Dongge's supremacy in Yunhe. He pleaded for his life, offering to share the profits 50/50 and provide his formula if Dongge would let him go, assuring that everyone would have a way out. However, Dongge remained unsatisfied.

Despite a subordinate warning of approaching police, Dongge ordered his men to throw Li Zhengqiang from the building, resulting in his immediate death. Dongge then departed. Lin Dezan expressed anger and frustration over Li Zhengqiang's death, emphasizing that without Li Zhengqiang's capture, the "Dahuang Capsule" case could not be conclusively solved. He demanded a thorough investigation, starting from the goods thrown from the warehouse. Chen Liwen arrived and was briefed by Liu Kaihua.

Liu Kaihua reported that based on Huang Wenlin's confession, Wu Zhenfeng had returned to Yunhe to conduct business with K. Li Zhengqiang's new type of drug had threatened K's interests in the Yunhe drug market, suggesting that K was likely behind the theft of the remaining goods from the warehouse. Further forensic examination of Li Zhengqiang's body revealed a distinct callus on his left middle finger, indicating he was left-handed, which matched the findings from the Hu Qingshan murder scene.

This evidence, combined with Huang Wenlin's testimony, strongly indicated that Li Zhengqiang was the killer of Hu Qingshan, thereby clearing Wu Zhenfeng of that suspicion. Given the lack of sufficient evidence to continue holding Wu Zhenfeng, Chen Liwen suggested his release. However, Lin Dezan vehemently disagreed, citing a shortage of personnel and insufficient information to effectively monitor Wu Zhenfeng if he were set free.

Lin Dezan then instructed Liu Kaihua to arrange Wu Zhenfeng's transfer to a drug rehabilitation center, signing the necessary paperwork. Liu Kaihua initially objected, noting that Leng Feng's report indicated Wu Zhenfeng's drug levels were too low for mandatory rehabilitation. Lin Dezan acknowledged Wu Zhenfeng's history of drug use and insisted they find a solution, deeming it the only viable method for temporary control. Liu Kaihua complied with Lin Dezan's directive.

Chen Liwen then announced a meeting at the anti-narcotics division the following day to discuss investigative strategies, as he was returning to the provincial department. Wu Zhenfeng, seemingly relieved, boarded the police vehicle bound for the rehabilitation center. Inside, he expressed gratitude to Chen Yu for proving he was not a murderer. Chen Yu, maintaining a cool demeanor, simply stated that arresting Huang Wenlin for his involvement in drug manufacturing and trafficking was merely part of the police's duty.

Wu Zhenfeng then reflected on their car ride three years prior in Walin Town, noting the stark contrast in their present circumstances and his own predicament. He apologized for the hardships Chen Yu had endured as a local police officer over the past three years due to him. Chen Yu dismissed the apology, asserting that his three years working as a grassroots officer had honed his ability to identify drug dealers at a glance.

He also stressed that if Wu Zhenfeng had returned with him three years ago, he wouldn't be in this current predicament. Wu Zhenfeng remarked that Chen Yu hadn't changed since childhood, suggesting Chen Yu had already formed a conclusive narrative in his mind, firmly believing Wu Zhenfeng to be a drug dealer. Wu Zhenfeng then challenged him, asking if he had ever seen a genuine drug dealer voluntarily turn themselves in.

Chen Yu then directly questioned Wu Zhenfeng, asking if Huang Wenlin's statement about Wu Zhenfeng returning from Mengka to negotiate business with K was true or a fabrication. Wu Zhenfeng offered no direct reply, but his thoughts drifted to a previous encounter where he had tried to secure passage through Yunhe for his boss's goods to Hong Kong.

He had argued with Dongge, stating that it was unfair for Dongge to disregard long-established customs of doing business and claiming that goods from Mengka could not be moved without Yunhe's channels. However, Dongge had refused, telling him to inform his boss that everyone should operate independently and steer clear of Yunhe, sternly warning Wu Zhenfeng to "get lost" if he valued his life.

Wu Zhenfeng then questioned Chen Yu about his failure to fulfill a request made three years ago: to ensure his parents were buried together, noting that his father had been "drifting" alone for three years. He reminded Chen Yu of his parents' kindness during their childhood, emphasizing this was the only favor he had ever sought, and it did not violate any regulations.

Wu Zhenfeng then directly stated that Chen Yu and the police had already concluded his father was a drug dealer, and by extension, believed him to be one too. He asserted that no one would credit his claims of investigating his father's death. Chen Yu acknowledged his lack of knowledge regarding Wu Zhenfeng's activities in Mengka for the past three years but expressed his belief that Wu Zhenfeng had undoubtedly been involved in drugs.

Chen Yu then proposed a direct trade: would Wu Zhenfeng be willing to use his own perceived guilt to secure his father's innocence? Wu Zhenfeng's resolute reply was that if Chen Yu could prove his father's innocence, then he, too, would be cleared of all charges. Chen Yu personally escorted Wu Zhenfeng to the rehabilitation center. As the gate closed behind him, Wu Zhenfeng glanced back at Chen Yu standing outside before following the doctor inside.

Once inside, Wu Zhenfeng discovered a familiar drug dealer named Gutou and recognized him. Gutou, surprised, asked if Wu Zhenfeng was "Ghost Hand" before inquiring about his identity. Wu Zhenfeng told him to simply call him "Brother Feng" and claimed he could facilitate Gutou's release. Meanwhile, Dongge received all of Li Zhengqiang's "Dahuang Capsules," though the formula was nowhere to be found. Dongge conveyed his thanks to Boss Zhuo for the information.

Citing increased police scrutiny following the Dahuang Capsule incident, Dongge ordered a delay in all transactions. He also instructed Jiang Lei to ascertain Wu Zhenfeng's whereabouts and whether he was still in Yunhe. Yang Yi and Lan Anran were visiting Yang Ling when Chen Yu arrived. Yang Ling immediately urged Chen Yu not to be angry and to apologize to Yang Yi.

She believed Chen Yu had unfairly taken out his frustrations on Yang Yi after a lecture from "Lin Dad" (Lin Dezan) that day. Chen Yu, however, refused to apologize, even after Yang Ling pointed out that Yang Yi had prepared all the food. Yang Yi then interjected, stating he had wanted "Lao Ba" to help him find clues about the "Dahuang Capsules."

Chen Liwen expressed significant dissatisfaction with Lin Dezan's performance, questioning the failure of the raid on Ba Peng Pharmacy and why Chen Yu and Lan Anran had not reported to him. He asserted that after three years, K had grown into a vast drug trafficking network spanning Yunhe and surrounding regions, implying Lin Dezan's efforts were a failure.

Lin Dezan defended his strategy, explaining his intention to use the "Dahuang Capsule" case as a critical entry point to identify and dismantle K's core organization. He appealed to Chen Liwen to trust him as an experienced police officer, claiming this approach would allow him to completely dismantle the K organization. Chen Liwen, however, reiterated his concern over the three-year duration and K's significant expansion. Yang Yi initiated an apology to Chen Yu for his earlier rudeness.

Chen Yu then confided his suspicions, sharing what Lan Anran had discovered: that Lin Dezan visited Ba Peng Pharmacy on the day of their raid and that she had found a pharmacy bag on Lin Dezan's desk. Chen Yu highlighted Wu Zhenfeng's confession about the pharmacy's involvement with drugs and questioned why the raid yielded nothing, strongly implying a leak and direct suspicion of Lin Dezan. Yang Yi adamantly defended Lin Dezan, arguing that such an accusation was unfair.

He pointed to Lin Dezan's commendable work on the Li Linfan case three years prior, which had earned him commendation and an opportunity to transfer to the provincial anti-narcotics division, questioning why Lin Dezan chose to remain in Yunhe despite his family residing in the provincial capital. Yang Ling, having overheard their escalating argument, intervened to passionately defend Lin Dezan, whom she referred to as "Lin Dad."

She tearfully recounted her personal history: her mother had been murdered by drug dealers, her father had fled abroad, and she had spent ten years growing up in an orphanage. Lin Dezan was the only one who consistently cared for her, visiting her, asking about her father, and eventually offering to be her adoptive father. She fondly recalled him playing with her on swings and giving her birthday gifts.

Yang Ling also mentioned meeting Yang Yi at the orphanage, and how Lin Dezan extended his care to Yang Yi because of their bond. She concluded by firmly stating that no one should ever doubt "Lin Dad." Yang Yi declared his unconditional trust in Lin Dezan. Lan Anran, visibly distressed, admitted that she would not have become a police officer without Lin Dezan's guidance and expressed her anguish over the current suspicions.

Chen Yu clarified that he was not acting out of anger but merely sought to prevent a repeat of the Ba Peng Pharmacy incident, to ensure that individuals like Huang Wenlin were apprehended swiftly, and to prevent the innocent from being wrongfully accused. Following this, Yang Yi offered an apology to Chen Yu, and their earlier tensions appeared to dissipate. Upon Jiang Lei's return home, he found Liu Kaihua waiting for him in the living room.

Liu Kaihua advised Jiang Lei not to overindulge in alcohol or boast, emphasizing that one shouldn't do just anything for money. He also sternly warned Jiang Lei to keep certain activities hidden from his mother and inquired about the money his mother had given him for a motorcycle. Jiang Lei respectfully acknowledged his uncle's words.

Chen Yu shared his thoughts on Wu Zhenfeng, expressing his belief that Wu Zhenfeng was not deeply involved in drugs and had returned to Yunhe to negotiate with K on behalf of Mengka, although the exact nature of their business remained unclear to him. He was, however, certain that Wu Zhenfeng was relentlessly pursuing the truth behind his father's death. Lan Anran observed that Chen Yu seemed to grow emotional whenever the topic of Wu Zhenfeng arose.

Chen Yu then declared his intention to reopen the three-year-old case involving Wu Zhenfeng's father and conduct a thorough investigation, starting by reviewing all drug enforcement case files from the past three years for any overlooked clues. Yang Yi expressed skepticism, highlighting the complexity of re-investigating closed cases and doubting Liu Kaihua's willingness to approve such a move. Chen Yu acknowledged that he could not undertake this task alone and earnestly requested assistance from Yang Yi and Lan Anran.

That night, Chen Yu found himself reflecting deeply on Wu Zhenfeng's words and actions, particularly their past conflicts. He recalled Wu Zhenfeng's assertion that Chen Yu had already formed a conclusive narrative, firmly believing him to be a drug dealer, and Wu Zhenfeng's challenge that if his father's innocence could be proven, then he, too, would be cleared.

Chen Yu also remembered his own question to Wu Zhenfeng: whether he was willing to sacrifice his own perceived guilt to prove his father's. His earlier conviction began to waver, acknowledging the possibility that Wu Zhenfeng might be correct.

Episode 7 Recap

At an anti-drug team meeting, technical analysis revealed that a chip found in a jade pixiu on Li Zhengqiang confirmed the formula for the new drug, Dahuang Capsule. The team reported that the large-scale circulation of Dahuang Capsules had been suppressed at its source, and that with Hu Qingshan and Li Zhengqiang deceased, and Huang Wenlin arrested, the Dahuang Capsule drug manufacturing and trafficking group was effectively eradicated.

They had arrested thirteen individuals involved in trafficking and seized seventeen kilograms of the drug. However, Chen Liwen strongly argued that the case was far from over. He pointed out that all the drugs at Li Zhengqiang's crime scene had mysteriously disappeared.

He demanded that every gram of the stolen Dahuang Capsules be recovered, the entire evidence chain of the new drug be completed, and that the K Group, regardless of their alias, be completely eliminated, as the drug situation in Yunhe had not improved. Meanwhile, Wu Zhenfeng sought out drug dealer Bone Brother in the rehab center, inquiring about a man named Ghost Hand, rumored to be connected to the K organization.

Bone Brother dismissed Ghost Hand as a small-time crook but confirmed he was in cell 18, known for his arrogance. Wu Zhenfeng then confronted Ghost Hand, introducing himself as "Brother Feng" and claiming he could get Ghost Hand out. Ghost Hand, unimpressed, dismissed him. Wu Zhenfeng reacted with aggression, which led to Ghost Hand falsely reporting him for provocation. Wu Zhenfeng was subsequently taken away by the guards.

Chen Yu approached Liu Kaihua, requesting to review all anti-drug team files from the past three years, believing it would aid his investigation into the Dahuang Capsule case. Liu Kaihua initially hesitated, stressing that the Dahuang Capsule case was the top priority. Chen Yu assured him he would only use his personal time and not interfere with his primary duties, nor would he take files home.

Liu Kaihua agreed, then reported the matter to Lin Dezan, who approved Chen Yu's request to proceed with his investigation. Excited by the approval, Chen Yu informed Yang Yi and Lan Anran. The three immediately went to the archives, where Chen Yu directed them to locate all files related to the K organization, Mengka, and information on all drug traffickers arrested in the last three years.

After moving out all the files, Chen Yu told Yang Yi and Lan Anran to return, asserting he could manage the rest alone. He spent the entire night poring over the documents. By morning, he had discovered a crucial detail: a man named Hu Daming was on the same bus with him and Wu Zhenfeng three years prior when they were caught up in a drug-related incident.

Records showed Hu Daming had gone abroad, spent two years in Mengka, and then returned to Yunhe a year ago to sell heroin from his restaurant, for which he was sentenced to life imprisonment. Chen Yu suspected Wu Zhenfeng and Hu Daming must have had contact since, and he tasked Lan Anran with visiting Hu Daming's wife to investigate her social connections, while he and Yang Yi headed to the prison to speak with Hu Daming.

Concurrently, Jiang Lei reported to Hao Dong that Wu Zhenfeng had voluntarily entered the rehab center. Hao Dong ordered his subordinate, Lao Zhang, to enter the facility, "probe and knock down" Wu Zhenfeng, emphasizing that the operation must be meticulously executed. Inside the rehab center, Ghost Hand confronted Wu Zhenfeng, demanding to know his background. Wu Zhenfeng brushed him off, stating he was merely there for drug rehab.

However, Wu Zhenfeng then revealed that he knew Ghost Hand had secretly stolen five kilograms of Ma Gu from his former boss. This knowledge rattled Ghost Hand, who quickly denied it and left, visibly agitated. At the prison, Chen Yu and Yang Yi met with Hu Daming. Hu Daming recognized Chen Yu from the fateful bus journey three years ago in Walin Town.

He recounted that after Wu Zhenfeng pushed Chen Yu down a slope during the incident, he followed Wu Zhenfeng. They were later captured by drug dealers but were rescued by the Mengka militia when the pursuers entered Mengka territory. They were then held at a militia base for over half a year, performing forced labor, before being released and separating.

When Chen Yu inquired about Wu Zhenfeng's alleged drug use in rehab, Hu Daming adamantly stated that Wu Zhenfeng "never touched drugs," and if he did, it would have been after their separation. Chen Yu, noting Hu Daming’s certainty despite claiming not to have seen Wu Zhenfeng for over a year, pressed him, leading Hu Daming to admit that Wu Zhenfeng had given him 10,000 yuan just two weeks prior.

Hu Daming then confessed to starting a heroin business using his restaurant as a front after seeing its profitability in Mengka. He also revealed that Wu Zhenfeng had been working odd jobs abroad while investigating his father Wu Gang's death, despite having few clues. Wu Zhenfeng had discovered that not only Drug San but also Yunhe's major drug lord Li Linfan were involved in his father's death.

Rumors had it that Li Linfan's demise was linked to Wu Gang, causing his murder. Hu Daming, expressing his conviction that Wu Zhenfeng would not commit crimes or use drugs, pleaded for help. Meanwhile, Lan Anran visited Hu Daming's wife, who reacted with hostility, accusing the police of abandoning her and her child after arresting her husband, leading to their restaurant's closure and mounting debt.

She stated that only "Brother Feng," Wu Zhenfeng, had been kind enough to send them money every month. Lan Anran inquired if Wu Zhenfeng himself delivered the money, to which the wife responded by asking if Lan Anran had news of Wu Zhenfeng, implying he must have returned to Yunhe and expressing a desire to see him again. Back in the rehab center, Wu Zhenfeng managed to enter Ghost Hand’s cell, surprising him with his influence.

Wu Zhenfeng asserted he was there to save Ghost Hand, but Ghost Hand retorted that only Hao Dong mattered in Yunhe. Wu Zhenfeng then slapped Ghost Hand, stating it was for payback. Ghost Hand, now submissive, begged Wu Zhenfeng to speak on his behalf to Hao Dong, even offering to reveal where he hid the stolen goods. Wu Zhenfeng, feigning unfamiliarity with Hao Dong, told Ghost Hand he wanted to be taken to Hao Dong.

Ghost Hand, believing Wu Zhenfeng might be an undercover police officer, explained that he didn't know Hao Dong directly. He only dealt with Brother Rat, who managed K's largest distribution point in Yunhe, operating an underground boxing gym. Ghost Hand admitted he didn't know if Brother Rat could directly contact Hao Dong, nor did he know the current location of the constantly changing gym.

Wu Zhenfeng pressed him, warning him that if he didn't cooperate, he risked spending his life in the rehab center, and that Hao Dong would not be as lenient as Wu Zhenfeng himself. Chen Yu visited Gong Wei, an officer severely injured three years prior, who was now unable to speak and deaf.

Chen Yu apologized to him for the first time in three years and expressed his interest in the Li Linfan case, believing it was linked to Wu Gang’s case. Gong Wei secretly messaged Lin Dezan about Chen Yu’s visit. Lin Dezan arrived, visibly angered by Chen Yu’s actions, arguing that disturbing Gong Wei was disruptive.

Lin Dezan explained that three years ago, Li Linfan, Yunhe’s biggest drug lord, had escaped their encirclement during an operation, though K-related items were found at the scene, suggesting K's involvement. Chen Yu countered, citing Hu Daming’s claim that Wu Gang had exposed Li Linfan, making Wu Gang’s case more suspicious. He insisted that the initial assessment of Wu Gang's death as "gang-on-gang" was flawed, especially since Drug San, also linked to Wu Gang, was later shot.

Chen Yu believed it was a frame-up and revenge killing. Lin Dezan demanded concrete evidence, stating he wanted to solve the case even more but couldn't rely on personal feelings or subjective assumptions. Their discussion ended in disagreement. After Chen Yu left, Liu Kaihua informed Lin Dezan that Wu Zhenfeng had transferred cells in the rehab center. Surprised, Lin Dezan ordered a discreet investigation into the reason for the transfer and who Wu Zhenfeng had contacted.

Later, Lin Dezan’s daughter, Tingting, called, needing 23,000 yuan for IELTS and overseas study. Lin Dezan, unable to produce the cash immediately, received financial help from Liu Kaihua and Gong Wei, for which he was deeply grateful. During mealtime at the rehab center, one of Hao Dong's men approached Wu Zhenfeng, warning him to keep silent and return to Mengka upon release. He then confronted Ghost Hand, warning him that Hao Dong would not forgive him for stealing his goods.

Terrified, Ghost Hand sought Wu Zhenfeng’s help, acknowledging that Hao Dong’s people had already found him. Wu Zhenfeng told Ghost Hand to follow him, asserting that only he and Mengka could help him find Brother Rat's boxing gym. Separately, it was revealed that Wu Zhenfeng’s drug test came back positive for Ma Gu, though the quantity was very small.

Episode 8 Recap

Continuing his relentless investigation into his father Wu Gang's case and the elusive K organization, Chen Yu visited Wu Zhenfeng at the rehab center. He informed Wu Zhenfeng that he had spoken with Hu Daming, who revealed that Wu Zhenfeng’s father, Wu Gang, was rumored to have been targeted for reporting Li Linfan.

Chen Yu pressed Wu Zhenfeng to share any information he had gathered or contacts he had made during his three years in Mengka, explaining his primary objective was to uncover the K organization and a figure known as Brother Dong. Wu Zhenfeng adamantly maintained his father was innocent, emphasizing Wu Gang’s lack of financial resources and influence, which would have made drug dealing impossible.

Wu Zhenfeng recalled a past incident where he was pursued by individuals associated with Brother Dong but asserted that he had never encountered any major drug lords in Mengka. While expressing gratitude for Chen Yu’s continued investigation into his father’s case, Wu Zhenfeng appeared weary and reluctant to disclose further details. Shortly after, Dr. Yu, a doctor Chen Yu financially supported, arrived at the rehab center.

Dr. Yu told Chen Yu that Wu Zhenfeng’s initial drug test results showed only a minimal amount of Magu, suggesting it was a first-time usage which typically warranted only a brief detention, not compulsory rehabilitation. This perplexed Chen Yu, who immediately requested Wu Zhenfeng’s blood test report. Officer Yang Yi noted the unusual circumstances of Wu Zhenfeng’s admission despite negligible drug use, suspecting he entered the center to locate someone with inside help.

Chen Yu became concerned that if Wu Zhenfeng was released due to the re-examination, their efforts to uncover his true purpose and connections would be jeopardized, and Wu Zhenfeng himself might be in danger. Leng Feng from the medical department informed Chen Yu that the report indicated "Rhubarb Capsules" and had been forwarded to Team Liu. Simultaneously, Wu Zhenfeng filed a report denying drug use and demanding a re-examination, prompting Director Lin Dezan and Team Liu to personally intervene.

Subsequent urine and hair tests confirmed Wu Zhenfeng had not used drugs for at least six months, contradicting the initial blood test result which Leng Feng staunchly defended. Police officers suspected a deliberate error or manipulation, believing someone had helped Wu Zhenfeng enter the rehab center for a specific purpose. Chen Yu instructed Lan Anran to investigate Wu Zhenfeng’s interactions within the facility.

Lan Anran discovered that Wu Zhenfeng, who had intentionally sought out Li Shouguy, also known as "Ghost Hand," in the facility, had a physical altercation with him the day after his admission, leading to Wu Zhenfeng's room being changed to Ghost Hand’s. Further investigation revealed Ghost Hand was a known troublemaker, a long-term Magu user who had previously served time for trafficking Magu marked with the letter "K."

Officers were tasked with uncovering how Ghost Hand entered the rehab center and monitoring Director Zhao and Leng Feng’s roles in Wu Zhenfeng’s case. Internally, police discussed the possibility of Wu Zhenfeng’s release if the re-examination confirmed his innocence, fearing he might flee. Concerns were also raised that Wu Zhenfeng, given his background in Mengka, might be involved in drug trafficking, and his release could lead to him fleeing or further engaging in illicit activities.

While still in the rehab center, Ghost Hand was overheard assuring Wu Zhenfeng that he would protect him and that they would achieve "something big" after their release. Chen Yu proposed to Director Lin Dezan that Wu Zhenfeng should live at his home for closer monitoring and protection, emphasizing the numerous unresolved questions surrounding Wu Zhenfeng’s involvement and their lack of progress on the K organization case.

Despite Lin Dezan’s initial skepticism regarding the justification for such an arrangement, Chen Yu argued that Wu Zhenfeng, even if minimally involved, could be a crucial link to K, and that using their personal history might gain his trust, as Wu Zhenfeng's current silence seemed to stem from distrust rather than deep culpability.

Lin Dezan eventually conceded, on the strict conditions that Chen Yu would not disclose any case details to Wu Zhenfeng and would provide constant updates on his activities, even offering to allow surveillance at his home. Upon returning to his rented apartment, Chen Yu informed Yang Ling, his girlfriend who also owned the cafe below, that Wu Zhenfeng would be staying with them.

Yang Ling vehemently opposed the idea due to Wu Zhenfeng's previous status as a "drug user," despite Chen Yu’s insistence that the test results were erroneous. Yang Ling adamantly refused, citing her discomfort with a supposed drug user living in her space, while Chen Yu appealed to her empathy, highlighting Wu Zhenfeng’s orphaned status and stressing his own professional need for Wu Zhenfeng’s cooperation.

During their heated argument, Lin Dezan arrived and asked Yang Ling to accompany him to her father, Yang Xingquan’s residence. At Yang Xingquan’s house, Lin Dezan was met with a chilly reception. He sought Yang Xingquan's help in investigating Wu Zhenfeng's three-year period in Mengka, reminding him of Yang Xingquan’s own extensive experience in the region. However, Yang Xingquan expressed deep resentment towards Lin Dezan, claiming that his past assistance had resulted in personal losses without any reciprocal benefits.

Lin Dezan apologized for the past grievances. Though initially unwilling, Yang Xingquan, swayed by his daughter’s plea, reluctantly agreed to help Lin Dezan this one time. As a group of individuals were being released from the rehab center, Ghost Hand once again reassured Wu Zhenfeng that he would protect him and that they would achieve "something big" once they were out. However, upon exiting, Wu Zhenfeng spotted Chen Yu and quickly urged Ghost Hand to leave first.

Chen Yu immediately told Wu Zhenfeng to get in his car, stating that Wu Zhenfeng had been pursued since his return to Yunhe and questioning if he sought death. Chen Yu revealed he had specifically applied to have Wu Zhenfeng stay at his place, even returning a jade pendant to him, and expressed his belief that Wu Zhenfeng’s suspicions about his father might be correct, assuring him of genuine help.

Wu Zhenfeng, acknowledging Chen Yu’s earlier financial assistance to him via Dr. Yu, agreed to accompany him. Chen Yu then brought Wu Zhenfeng to the apartment above Yang Ling’s cafe, warning him about the landlord's potentially difficult personality and instructing him to be patient. Yang Ling, the owner of the cafe and Chen Yu’s girlfriend, provided toiletries to Wu Zhenfeng and discovered his cigarettes, which reminded him of his late father.

During dinner, Chen Yu introduced Yang Ling as his girlfriend, though Wu Zhenfeng noted her apparent displeasure at his presence. Chen Yu then pressed Wu Zhenfeng on how he entered the rehab center, explaining that the person who signed his compulsory rehab notice was responsible. Wu Zhenfeng expressed his frustration with the constant interrogation. Meanwhile, Ghost Hand, having been released, met with Du Hai.

Ghost Hand claimed a "big brother" he met in rehab had arranged his release and sought to discuss a major deal with Du Hai, inquiring about his boxing gym and the need for fighters. Ghost Hand also revealed that this "big brother" had been picked up by a police officer named Chen Yu, his former neighbor, and was now residing at Chen Yu’s house.

Their conversation, which also alluded to "Brother Dong" and a plan to deliver goods, was discreetly overheard. Later, narcotics were secretly planted in Yang Ling's cafe. The following morning, Yang Xingquan, having learned of Wu Zhenfeng’s living arrangement, angrily confronted Chen Yu at the cafe, demanding Wu Zhenfeng’s immediate departure. He declared his absolute refusal to allow anyone associated with drugs to live near his daughter, despite Chen Yu’s attempts to clarify Wu Zhenfeng’s non-addict status and their childhood connection.

Yang Ling tried to mediate, asserting her right to decide who stayed in the house her father had given her, but Yang Xingquan remained unyielding. Wu Zhenfeng, overhearing the escalating dispute, attempted to leave, acknowledging he shouldn't be there. During a struggle with Yang Ling, a vase was knocked over, revealing a bag of drugs. Yang Xingquan immediately accused Wu Zhenfeng of possession.

Chen Yu swiftly ordered everyone not to touch the evidence, photographed it for documentation, and contacted the police. Officer Wang arrived, initiated video and audio recording of the scene, and instructed everyone to proceed to the police station for official statements. An overheard phone conversation confirmed the drugs were intentionally planted to force both Wu Zhenfeng and Chen Yu out of the premises. The anti-drug team began investigating Du Hai, whom Ghost Hand had contacted.

Officer Bo Wen reported that Du Hai operated Yunhe County’s largest illegal black boxing casino, managing substantial gambling proceeds. Despite previous attempts, police had struggled to identify the casino’s precise location due to its practice of announcing venues only to trusted individuals just before events. While there had been prior reports of drug involvement at the casino, past raids had only resulted in the arrest of gamblers and individual drug users, with no evidence of drug traffickers found.

Team Liu confirmed that surveillance footage from Dexi Police Station revealed someone had deliberately planted the drugs in the cafe the previous night. He also noted that Wu Zhenfeng had not contacted anyone other than Ghost Hand since his release from the rehab center, leading to the preliminary conclusion that Wu Zhenfeng was framed. Officer Wang concurred with this assessment.

Officer Liu Kaihua speculated that Wu Zhenfeng, due to his close relationship with Li Shouguy, might be the "big brother" Ghost Hand mentioned, who intended to do business with Du Hai’s casino. The team inferred that if Wu Zhenfeng was indeed connected to the casino, it would likely have ties to the K organization and drug activities. The scene concluded with an announcement for an upcoming boxing match at the casino, urging attendees to place their bets.

Episode 9 Recap

Following the discovery of drugs at Yang Ling's coffee shop, an incident Chen Yu believed was a frame-up against Wu Zhenfeng, police intensify their efforts. Chen Yu and Liu Kaihua meet with Lin Dezan to discuss the ongoing situation. Chen Yu suggests that if Wu Zhenfeng is truly looking for this particular gambling den, it must be connected to K and inevitably to drug trafficking.

He notes that two previous attempts to apprehend suspects failed to yield drugs, indicating the culprits' quick reactions. Liu Kaihua emphasizes the need for prior arrangement, sending someone undercover into the gambling den for reconnaissance and evidence collection. They can only act once they have confirmed evidence of drug transactions and quantities. Liu Kaihua reveals he has already started organizing files of previous suspects and their social connections, hoping to find someone suitable who can infiltrate without raising suspicion.

Lan Anran later reveals that she knows Wan Mengmeng, a person who appears in the files. Yang Ling calls Lin Dezan, informing him of his daughter Tingting's arrival. Lin Dezan is surprised, realizing he mistook the date; Tingting was supposed to arrive today, the first. He hastily issues strict orders for tight surveillance of the gambling den before rushing off. Lin Dezan arrives to meet Tingting, who is preoccupied with her phone.

He offers her money, relaying her mother's advice to take vitamins, but Tingting suggests bank transfers are safer due to the large amount. Lin Dezan tries to invite her to dinner, hoping to spend some time, even just two hours. However, Tingting refuses, stating she has pre-booked flight tickets and upcoming IELTS classes. Lin Dezan offers to drive her, but she declines, saying her car is waiting.

As she leaves, Wu Zhenfeng watches from a distance, muttering about Lin Dezan's seemingly ample funds for "IELTS and studying abroad." Lin Dezan turns to Wu Zhenfeng, warning him to behave himself while staying at Yang Ling's place and not to cause any trouble. Yang Ling angrily confronts Lin Dezan, upset that he arranged for Wu Zhenfeng to stay with her, which caused an argument with her father and further estranged them.

Lin Dezan apologizes for her distress and promises to talk to her father. Later that evening, Chen Yu comes to Yang Ling, quickly apologizing for the morning's incident. Yang Ling chastises him, reminding him that he promised no trouble, yet on the very first day, she witnessed what meth looks like. Chen Yu confronts Wu Zhenfeng, accusing him of not being truthful in his police statement and asking if K framed him. Wu Zhenfeng remains silent.

Chen Yu gives him a light kick, telling him to get ready for dinner, but sternly warns him to apologize to Yang Ling at the meal. He stresses that Wu Zhenfeng caused a lot of trouble at her coffee shop on his first day, regardless of whether the meth was his. Meanwhile, Lin Dezan goes to apologize to Yang Xingquan.

Lin Dezan assures him that Chen Yu is loyal and cares deeply for Yang Ling, promising he would not let her come to harm. However, Yang Xingquan dismisses this, believing Lin Dezan doesn't understand the dangers. He asserts that the police are merely trying to use Wu Zhenfeng for information, and housing such a person near Yang Ling is reckless, potentially endangering both her and Chen Yu.

During dinner, Yang Ling states she believes the meth was not placed by Wu Zhenfeng, but she understands her father's intense anger. She reveals their tragic family history: twenty years ago, her father reported a drug dealer to Lin Dezan, which ultimately led to her mother's death and her father's decade-long exile abroad, shattering their family. She asserts that while Lin Dezan bears responsibility, it was the drug dealer who truly took her mother's life.

This painful past explains why she, and her father, absolutely cannot tolerate drugs anywhere near them. She warns Wu Zhenfeng not to let such an incident occur at her shop again, urging him to show some gratitude to Chen Yu for his efforts. Wu Zhenfeng, reflecting on his own father, bitterly contrasts his situation with Yang Xingquan's, whose innocence can at least be proven and who is still alive.

He feels the police wrongly labeled his father a drug dealer, implying he deserved to die, and he desires revenge. Chen Yu warns Wu Zhenfeng that he cannot accomplish anything alone and will only jeopardize himself, urging him to share everything he knows. Wu Zhenfeng, however, views this as Chen Yu's true purpose for keeping him around. Yang Xingquan remains deeply wary of Wu Zhenfeng.

He tells Chen Yu that although there is no direct proof of Wu Zhenfeng's drug involvement, his three years spent in Mengka after being rescued—first as a laborer, then joining a local militia due to his combat skills—strongly suggest a connection to drugs, as the region is inextricably linked to drug activities.

Yang Xingquan questions Wu Zhenfeng's contacts and purpose in Yunhe, implicitly expressing his distrust and concern about Lin Dezan's decision to house a potentially dangerous person near Yang Ling. Posing as a misguided youth, Lan Anran contacts Wan Mengmeng. She eagerly asks about a gambling den, pretending to have already lost hundreds of thousands and desperately wanting to recoup her losses.

Wan Mengmeng, seemingly viewing Lan Anran as a significant mark, informs her about a boxing match happening that night and arranges to meet there. Wu Zhenfeng instructs his associate, Li ShougGui, to find a person named "Ah Shu." Upon learning about a boxing match scheduled for that night, Wu Zhenfeng deduces that if it is K's main sales point in Yunhe, Ah Shu will surely be there.

As they prepare to leave, Li ShougGui expresses concern about getting caught again so soon after rehab, but Wu Zhenfeng reassures him, knowing Liu Kaihua had already arranged for Chen Yu to follow them. Meanwhile, Lan Anran contacts Liu Kaihua, providing her location, and is soon picked up by Wan Mengmeng. Police surveillance confirms Lan Anran's target is heading towards an abandoned auto scrap yard on Union Road in the city outskirts, which aligns with Wu Zhenfeng's suspected destination.

Liu Kaihua mobilizes his elite police team, confirming the location and preparing for deployment. The abandoned auto scrap yard has been transformed into a bustling, underground boxing venue, teeming with people. Lan Anran uses the excuse of finding a restroom to discreetly scout the area. Through her communication device, Chen Yu informs her that Wu Zhenfeng has also entered the fight club, warning her to be cautious.

Lan Anran spots a suspicious flat-roofed building, guarded by four men, which she suspects is where drugs or money are being stored. She attempts to approach it for evidence, but Wan Mengmeng pulls her away, directing her to a different restroom and sternly warning her not to wander off carelessly. To Lan Anran's shock, Wu Zhenfeng suddenly appears in the boxing ring as one of the fighters. He makes eye contact with her from the ring.

From across the arena, Ah Shu recognizes Wu Zhenfeng and immediately orders his men to "kill him" on the spot, realizing Wu Zhenfeng is there to cause trouble. Wu Zhenfeng, aware of the police surveillance, quickly tells Li ShougGui that if they are arrested, they should only claim they came to box and know nothing else.

Ah Shu, infuriated, orders the match to be stopped immediately, despite the placed bets, acknowledging that Wu Zhenfeng is clearly there to "smash the place." Wu Zhenfeng has already defeated his opponent. After the match is halted, Ah Shu dispatches someone to summon Wu Zhenfeng. To everyone's surprise, Wu Zhenfeng then walks towards Ah Shu, bringing Lan Anran with him, and explicitly identifies her as "a cop" right in front of Ah Shu.

Episode 10 Recap

Police, monitoring through a hidden camera on Lan Anran, observed the activities inside the underground boxing arena. During this, Wu Zhenfeng, having already discovered the hidden camera in Lan Anran's bag, deliberately took her bag and used it to capture crucial evidence.

He specifically focused on the gambling activities, various drugs like Ma Gu and Da Huang on the tables, and a close-up of a man's face, whom Chen Yu recognized as "Brother Rat," the person who had chased him and Wu Zhenfeng three years prior. Wu Zhenfeng explicitly told Brother Rat that his purpose was not to fight or make a deal, but to dismantle K's operation as an act of revenge.

With the evidence secured, Liu Kaihua, fearing significant repercussions, quickly gave the order for the police to move in and apprehend everyone. Following the swift raid, Wu Zhenfeng willingly cooperated with the police and was taken into custody. Brother Rat was also arrested during the operation. When Hao Dong, a major figure in the K organization, received news of the raid and Brother Rat's arrest, he became deeply concerned.

He questioned what would happen if Brother Rat, whom he had never personally met, revealed information about Wu Gang's death. He was particularly worried because Brother Rat had betrayed Wu Gang three years ago, and Hao Dong believed he would betray Wang Yikun, Hao Dong's direct confidant, as well, which would expose more internal secrets.

Wang Yikun, or "A-Kun," tried to reassure Hao Dong, but Hao Dong was adamant that no one would be safe if the police uncovered the truth about Wu Gang's death. Recognizing Brother Rat's strong bond with his mother, Wang Yikun suggested taking her into custody as leverage. Hao Dong reluctantly agreed to Wang Yikun's plan but sternly reminded him of their close, life-or-death brotherhood, warning him not to let their operation crumble because of Brother Rat.

As Brother Rat was being escorted into a police vehicle, Wu Zhenfeng urgently told Chen Yu to thoroughly investigate him, convinced that the man with the scar on his face was involved in something significant. Chen Yu, already aware that Wu Zhenfeng had caused that very scar, understood that Wu Zhenfeng's presence at the boxing arena had been deliberate. Later that night, Wan Heda, the owner of Wanlutong Logistics and a county political advisor, arrived at Lin Dezan's office.

He explained that his daughter, Wan Mengmeng, had been taken in during the raid. Wan Heda vouched for her character, insisting that despite her willful nature, she was incapable of illegal activities and had only gone to the boxing ring out of curiosity. He then presented a hospital certificate, revealing that Wan Mengmeng suffered from intermittent epilepsy, which made her highly susceptible to seizures and stress.

Expressing profound concern for her well-being in custody, Wan Heda subtly hinted at his connections by mentioning a deputy county head who could vouch for his daughter. Lin Dezan called Liu Kaihua, who confirmed that Wan Mengmeng denied any drug involvement or connection to the boxing ring. Given the lack of incriminating evidence and her medical condition, Lin Dezan authorized her release, citing concerns about legal liability if her health deteriorated while detained.

Lan Anran later explained to Chen Yu that Wu Zhenfeng had taken her bag inside the boxing arena specifically to collect evidence. While she remained unsure of his ultimate motive, she concluded that, regardless of his intentions, Wu Zhenfeng was a potentially valuable asset. During his interrogation, He Jiashu, also known as Brother Rat, vehemently denied any involvement in illegal activities, claiming he was merely a "lookout" and that the boxing arena truly belonged to someone named Du Hai.

The interrogators confronted him with Du Hai's confession, which stated that the arena belonged to He Jiashu and Du Hai was just his "puppet." He Jiashu insisted on further investigation, maintaining his innocence and even claiming he was the real "puppet." When asked about Wu Zhenfeng, He Jiashu falsely claimed he didn't know him, despite the visible scar Wu Zhenfeng had left on his face.

The interrogator warned He Jiashu that given the overwhelming evidence collected that night, he wouldn't be leaving anytime soon. Wu Zhenfeng, during his own interrogation, repeatedly urged Chen Yu to investigate Brother Rat, asserting that he was directly connected to his father Wu Gang's death. However, Chen Yu largely ignored these pleas, instead pressing Wu Zhenfeng about whether his purpose in coming to Yunhe was to rendezvous with K.

Wu Zhenfeng became agitated, arguing that they should be interrogating Brother Rat, who was likely disoriented and would easily confess, especially given their shared past on a bus three years ago where Brother Rat and his leader had tried to kill them. Chen Yu, however, firmly stated that suspect interrogation was police business, not Wu Zhenfeng's, and continued to demand Wu Zhenfeng clarify his true intentions for being at the boxing arena.

Wu Zhenfeng then revealed that for the past three years, his sole objective had been to avenge his father's death. He explained that all the leads he had gathered were fragmented and incomplete. It was only when he saw Brother Rat at the boxing arena that night that he felt, for the first time, truly close to the truth. His gut told him that Brother Rat was undeniably connected to his father's demise.

Upon her release, Wan Mengmeng spotted Lan Anran and angrily accused her of betrayal. Lan Anran, in turn, advised Lin Dezan that Wan Mengmeng should not have been released without further investigation, strongly believing she had a connection to He Jiashu and that new clues might emerge. However, Lin Dezan cited Wan Mengmeng's documented medical condition, particularly her epilepsy, as a barrier to prolonged detention, emphasizing the legal liabilities if her health deteriorated while in custody.

Meanwhile, Liu Kaihua hurried to Lin Dezan's office, expressing his strong disagreement with Wan Mengmeng's release. He pointed out that she had been involved in underground boxing gambling three times before, and the recent raid had confirmed the boxing arena was a K sales point and a drug den. Liu Kaihua suspected Wan Mengmeng's drug involvement. Lin Dezan explained that Wan Heda had arrived at his office immediately after his daughter's arrest, indicating an insider leaking information quickly.

Given that the raid targeted a K operation, Lin Dezan concluded that Wan Heda was very likely connected to K. He stressed that any action against someone with such social standing required irrefutable evidence to prevent them from slipping away. Police intelligence revealed that Brother Rat's real name was He Jiashu. His previous work history showed employment at Wu's Jade Shop from 2014 to 2016, a business owned by Wu Gang, Wu Zhenfeng's father.

He Jiashu had lived a modest life, with all his income dedicated to his mother's treatment at a sanatorium, including a kidney transplant she received a few years prior. Chen Yu visited Liu Jun, who managed Wu's Jade Shop, to inquire about He Jiashu. Liu Jun confirmed that He Jiashu was a notorious gambler, deeply in debt, which often led debt collectors to the shop.

Liu Jun admitted he wanted to beat He Jiashu and fire him, but Wu Gang had intervened. Wu Gang knew He Jiashu gambled to pay for his mother's medical expenses, and out of compassion, he even instructed Liu Jun to use money from the shop's accounts to settle He Jiashu's gambling debts and cover his mother's medical bills. However, Liu Jun revealed that He Jiashu was later bought off.

He Jiashu was responsible for tampering with the car in which Wu Gang later died, and on the day of Wu Gang's fatal incident, He Jiashu was seen leading others in pursuit of him. The presence of drugs at the scene of Wu Gang's death led the police to initially believe it was a gang-related "black-eat-black" incident.

Chen Yu, however, concluded that He Jiashu was bribed and was directly involved in Wu Gang's death, which he now believed was a deliberate setup. Chen Yu further speculated that the K organization might be responsible for Wu Gang's death, noting the "K" symbol on both Li Linfan's heroin and K's Ma Gu, suggesting K was a remnant of Li Linfan's drug trafficking operation.

Chen Yu proposed that they work with Wu Zhenfeng, arguing that even if Wu Zhenfeng was involved with drugs, it was likely in pursuit of revenge. Lin Dezan was cautious, viewing Wu Zhenfeng as a double-edged sword. He suspected that Wu Zhenfeng had actually used Chen Yu to dismantle the boxing ring operation.

Lin Dezan emphasized the need for extreme prudence in cooperating with Wu Zhenfeng, given his unknown activities abroad for the past three years, and instructed Chen Yu to report his findings to Liu Kaihua. Meanwhile, Wang Yikun visited Wan Heda. Although Wang Yikun and Wan Mengmeng had been in a relationship for nearly two years, Wan Heda had always disapproved.

Wang Yikun urgently informed Wan Heda that Hao Dong knew about Wan Mengmeng bringing a "new face" – a police officer – into the boxing ring, and that if this information reached Hao Dong, Wan Mengmeng's life would be in severe danger. Faced with this grave threat, Wan Heda reluctantly acknowledged Wang Yikun and Wan Mengmeng's relationship.

Wang Yikun suggested that they concoct a story blaming Wu Zhenfeng for bringing the police to the boxing arena, hoping to divert suspicion from Wan Mengmeng and protect her. Later that night, Chen Yu and Lan Anran conducted another interrogation of He Jiashu. They revealed that his mother had been kidnapped by Hao Dong's people.

They stressed the urgency of the situation, explaining that his mother had undergone a kidney transplant and required anti-rejection medication, which she had not taken with her. They warned He Jiashu that without the medication, his mother's life was in grave danger.

Episode 11 Recap

Police investigators, examining surveillance footage and He Jiashu's social connections, identified Jiang Yu as the individual who took He Jiashu's mother from the nursing home. After leaving, Jiang Yu changed the car's license plate, making them difficult to track. Alarmingly, He Jiashu's mother was taken without her medication, which, given her condition, put her life in immediate danger.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, He Jiashu pleaded with Chen Yu to rescue his mother, emphasizing he would not disclose any information until she was safe. Police swiftly located Jiang Yu's hideout, found He Jiashu's seriously ill mother, and promptly sent her to the hospital. Meanwhile, Wang Yikun, who was in a tense standoff with Wan Heda, received a call informing him that He Jiashu's mother had been rescued.

This news terrified Wang Yikun, who implored Wan Heda to help him keep their secrets, fearing dire consequences from Hao Dong if the truth was revealed. However, Wang Yikun was confident that He Jiashu would not betray him. Wan Heda, having obtained the information he needed, secured Wang Yikun's assurance that he would blame Wu Zhenfeng for leading the police to raid the fight club.

Upon hearing that his mother was safe, Chen Yu arranged for He Jiashu to speak with her. His mother urged him to confess everything honestly. He Jiashu then revealed that his superior was Hu Qingshan. He explained that three years prior, after Wu Gang had helped him financially, Hu Qingshan approached him, claiming Wu Gang had targeted his boss and sought revenge.

Hu Qingshan offered He Jiashu a substantial sum, far exceeding the initial one hundred thousand yuan Wu Gang provided, to frame Wu Gang with drugs. Facing his mother's immense medical bills for a kidney transplant, He Jiashu agreed to the scheme. Chen Yu, however, knew that Hu Qingshan had betrayed K a year ago, meaning K would not have left He Jiashu alive to manage such a large operation.

Chen Yu asserted that He Jiashu was lying and that his true superior was someone else. He Jiashu, unwilling to elaborate further, provocatively stated that Chen Yu was lucky to have survived three years ago and that even if he revealed his boss's identity, Chen Yu would be powerless to investigate. When Chen Yu pressed him for the name, He Jiashu deliberately named Jiang Lei, Liu Kaihua's nephew, as his boss.

Wan Heda and Wang Yikun later met with Hao Dong, attempting to pin all responsibility for the recent troubles on Wu Zhenfeng. Hao Dong, though clearly not fooled, did not expose their deceit. He simply instructed Wan Heda to keep a close eye on his daughter, Wan Mengmeng, and, knowing Wu Zhenfeng was about to be released, ordered that Wu Zhenfeng be crippled and thrown out of the country. Immediately after his release, Wu Zhenfeng was shadowed by Jiang Lei.

Wu Zhenfeng went to his parents' grave, expressing deep remorse for not having visited them in three years. He also lamented his father's sudden departure, which left him with no clues. He confessed to feeling exhausted and uncertain if he could continue his relentless three-year search for the truth. Chen Yu arrived with flowers, also there to pay respects, and promised to continue investigating, stating he had already found some leads.

Noticing how clean the tombstone was, Wu Zhenfeng realized Chen Yu had been visiting regularly and expressed his gratitude. Chen Yu urged Wu Zhenfeng to cooperate with the police rather than act alone. Wu Zhenfeng advised Chen Yu to cease his investigation, asserting that the closer they got to the truth, the more perilous it would become, and specifically warned that even within the police force, safety was not guaranteed.

Later, while drinking with Ghost Hand, Wu Zhenfeng was asked about his true intentions, as Ghost Hand felt completely out of his depth. Wu Zhenfeng declared his ambition to become a "drug king" and promised Ghost Hand and his associates a life of luxury if they followed him. Moments later, a van crashed into their food stall, pinning Wu Zhenfeng against a wall. During the ensuing fight, Ghost Hand pulled off the attacker's mask, revealing him to be Jiang Lei.

Startled, Wu Zhenfeng used the chaos to escape, with Jiang Lei and his men in hot pursuit. The chase led them into an alley. Wu Zhenfeng, hidden in the shadows, lunged out, knocking a dagger from Jiang Lei's hand. He demanded Jiang Lei call Hao Dong, but Jiang Lei scoffed, saying Wu Zhenfeng was not worthy. Simultaneously, Hao Dong was reprimanding Wang Yikun for his incompetence, furious that He Jiashu's mother had been rescued.

He ominously declared that if He Jiashu exposed anyone, that person would die, emphasizing it was his rule. At that moment, Wu Zhenfeng used Jiang Lei's phone to call Hao Dong. Hao Dong demanded Wu Zhenfeng release Jiang Lei, promising him safe passage back to Mengka. However, Jiang Lei was already on the ground, incapacitated by Wu Zhenfeng. Left with no choice, Hao Dong reluctantly agreed to meet Wu Zhenfeng.

Due to the fight at the night market, Ghost Hand was brought to the police station, where Liu Kaihua personally interrogated him. Liu Kaihua questioned why Wu Zhenfeng wanted to find Hao Dong. Ghost Hand claimed he genuinely didn't know but reiterated Wu Zhenfeng's declaration about becoming a "drug king." Liu Kaihua pressed Ghost Hand to truthfully report every word Wu Zhenfeng had said, emphasizing it was his opportunity. Ghost Hand promptly agreed to cooperate fully.

Wu Zhenfeng, with Jiang Lei as his captive, arrived at a remote forested area to meet Hao Dong. Several cars were already present, and a grave had been dug. However, the person who emerged to meet Wu Zhenfeng was Wang Yikun, not Hao Dong. Wu Zhenfeng recalled seeing Wang Yikun in a car three years ago and being pursued by him in the rain that night.

Mistaking Wang Yikun for Hao Dong, and seeing men encircling him, Wu Zhenfeng became slightly flustered, hastily explaining that "Er Liang" had sent him to discuss business. The other party clearly did not believe him. As they pressed closer, Wu Zhenfeng warned them he would kill Jiang Lei if they advanced further. At that moment, the real Hao Dong appeared, offering to talk if Wu Zhenfeng released Jiang Lei.

After a brief pause, Wu Zhenfeng threw his dagger and pushed Jiang Lei away, stating he trusted Hao Dong. But as soon as Jiang Lei was free, he viciously punched Wu Zhenfeng. Hao Dong's cold words followed: he didn't even trust himself, so he found it astonishing that Wu Zhenfeng would trust him. Hao Dong ordered his men to throw Wu Zhenfeng into the freshly dug pit.

He explained that he simply could not trust Wu Zhenfeng, pointing out that someone who could enter and leave rehab so easily, and even lead police to raid his fight club, was suspicious. However, out of respect for Wu Zhenfeng's misplaced trust, he offered him a "full corpse." At that moment, Wu Zhenfeng's phone rang. Wu Zhenfeng loudly informed Hao Dong that the caller was his childhood friend, a police officer, which explained his easy access to the police station.

Perhaps not wishing to antagonize the police, or perhaps partially swayed by Wu Zhenfeng's words, Hao Dong surprisingly gave him a chance to leave. He instructed Wu Zhenfeng to return and tell "Er Liang" that there was no business to be discussed. Wan Heda had been waiting anxiously for Hao Dong's return. Not seeing Wu Zhenfeng, Wan Heda initially feared another murder had occurred and expressed his anger, complaining that Hao Dong's constant killing would ruin their business.

However, upon learning that Wu Zhenfeng was alive, Wan Heda's temper subsided. Hao Dong, still irate, brought up a long-standing suspicion: his father and Wan Heda had been business partners years ago, and one had died while the other survived, which Hao Dong found inherently suspicious. The two began to argue fiercely.

Wan Heda tried to persuade Hao Dong to consider doing business with Mengka again, framing it as a financial opportunity, but Hao Dong remained fixated on the past and Mengka's role in Wu Gang's death. Wan Heda also mentioned to Hao Dong that Wu Zhenfeng was connected to a police officer, confirming they were childhood friends, and that the officer even sent him money, suggesting Wu Zhenfeng might be working with the police.

Episode 12 Recap

After Hao Dong, surprisingly, allowed him to leave the grave site, Wu Zhenfeng returns to his lodging, still shaken by the near-death experience. Looking at his disheveled appearance in the mirror, he recalls Chen Yu's words about cooperation and realizes the vast power imbalance in his solo fight against Hao Dong. He contemplates calling Chen Yu but ultimately decides against it. After a prior conflict, Hao Dong offers a conciliatory apology to Wan Heda.

Wan Heda earnestly advises Hao Dong against a perpetual standoff with Mengka, arguing that it offers no long-term benefits. He emphasizes the unchangeable bond of neighborhood, stating that Mengka cannot be moved and neither can they leave Yunhe. He points out how "a small fry like Wu Zhenfeng" has already caused significant disruption in Yunhe, questioning what good a larger conflict would bring and reiterating that a prolonged stalemate is unsustainable.

Despite this, Hao Dong suggests they should "touch base" with Mengka first. A disheveled Wu Zhenfeng appears before Chen Yu, who presses him about his whereabouts the previous night and why he didn't answer calls. Wu Zhenfeng claims he was involved in a fight around seven or eight o'clock at a Deashan Street food stall, possibly in retaliation for the boxing ring incident.

When Chen Yu pushes for more details, Wu Zhenfeng initially resists, asserting his right to privacy outside police authority. However, under threat of being taken to the police station for a statement, Wu Zhenfeng reveals he was taken to meet someone who has a "very close relationship" with the Public Security Bureau. He then names Jiang Lei, identifying him as Liu Kaihua's nephew and his "boss."

Chen Yu, recalling He Jiashu's earlier statement about Jiang Lei, does not press for more details, though Wu Zhenfeng deliberately omits his encounter with Hao Dong. Later, Liu Kaihua confronts Jiang Lei about his injuries and whereabouts. Jiang Lei fabricates a story about a fight with a recruitment boss over a job, denying any involvement in a Deashan Street incident that Liu Kaihua mentions.

Chen Yu asks Wu Zhenfeng if he trusts him, then urges him to abandon his path of revenge if his involvement with drugs is still minimal, reminding him of his past warnings that continuing to investigate could lead to his death and asking if he wants to ruin himself. Chen Yu assures Wu Zhenfeng that he is trying to help him.

Wu Zhenfeng, in turn, asks Chen Yu if he trusts him, pledging that if he has any contact with drug criminals and obtains concrete evidence, he will immediately inform Chen Yu, just as he did with A Shu previously. He also promises that if he is found to be involved in drugs, the police can arrest him at any time. Wu Zhenfeng then hands Chen Yu a USB drive containing all the data from his father's company.

Chen Yu immediately instructs his colleague, Bowen, to analyze the vehicle records from August 28, 2016. Bowen reports that a vehicle from Wanlutong Logistics Company was used on that date, and that most of the company's transportation records are linked to this firm. Chen Yu identifies Wan Heda as the rapidly rising boss of Wanlutong and orders an investigation into him.

At the police station, Chen Yu approaches Lin Dezan, speculating that Wu Zhenfeng met with K's people and might be a key contact for K and Mengka's collaboration. Liu Kaihua, also present, scolds Chen Yu for his impudence. An officer informs Lin Dezan that Wu Zhenfeng returned that morning, but the officer admits he hadn't inquired about Wu Zhenfeng's whereabouts, a lapse Lin Dezan criticizes as a failure to gather important information.

Chen Yu then elaborates on his strategy: gaining Wu Zhenfeng's trust through a thorough investigation of Wu Gang's case, with the ultimate goal of leveraging his cooperation to dismantle K. Lin Dezan challenges Chen Yu's assessment of Wu Zhenfeng's drug involvement, reminding him of past mistakes. Chen Yu defends his stance, asserting that Wu Zhenfeng's primary motivation is revenge for his father, whose framing now appears evident.

When challenged by Liu Kaihua about He Jiashu's statement being one-sided, Chen Yu reiterates that he needs to investigate further. He emphasizes Wu Zhenfeng is their sole lead to K and that he trusts him. Chen Yu requests permission to investigate Wanlutong Company and Wan Heda, whose company's vehicle was used when Wu Gang was killed crossing the border.

Lin Dezan grants permission but sternly cautions Chen Yu to be deferential when dealing with the influential Wan Heda and strictly forbids him from revealing any investigation details to Wu Zhenfeng or reporting to anyone beyond his immediate superior. After Chen Yu leaves, Liu Kaihua voices concerns to Lin Dezan that Chen Yu, being young, might be exploited by Wu Zhenfeng. Liu Kaihua then adds that Chen Yu reminds him of a younger Lin Dezan.

Lin Dezan instructs Liu Kaihua to maintain close surveillance on Wu Zhenfeng and to ensure Chen Yu's safety if Wu Zhenfeng is definitively identified as a drug trafficker. Hao Dong instructs Wang Yikun to head to Kundu and meet A Can to formalize logistics for upcoming drug shipments, asserting that the existing routes, established by Wan Heda, will continue to be used under their new arrangement.

He offers Wang Yikun a share of the profits and has set up an overseas account for him. Wang Yikun, however, stresses that his loyalty to Hao Dong is not motivated by money, having joined him three years ago for reasons other than wealth. Hao Dong dismisses this, arguing that Wan Heda's long-standing disapproval of Wang Yikun's relationship with Wan Mengmeng is rooted in his lack of wealth.

Hao Dong tells Wang Yikun that without confronting Wan Heda, he will never achieve anything, making an eventual confrontation inevitable. Meanwhile, Chen Yu and Lan Anran arrive at Wan Heda's office, directly asking if he knew Wu Gang and requesting driver information related to the case, clarifying it's not about his daughter, Wan Mengmeng, a topic they had previously discussed. As Wan Heda tries to evade their questions, his nanny calls, reporting that Wan Mengmeng is experiencing another drug relapse.

Distraught, Wan Heda dismisses the police, instructing a subordinate to handle them. However, the subordinate inadvertently hands over sensitive driver documents before Wan Heda can intervene. Shortly after, Wan Mengmeng desperately calls her father, demanding her "Xiao Ma" (likely a drug). Enraged by the documents falling into police hands, Wan Heda berates his subordinate for being unable to prevent it and orders reliable individuals to immediately retrieve the materials, warning that their ruin depends on it.

Chen Yu and Wu Zhenfeng are reviewing the salvaged company documents. They discover that the entry for August 28, 2016, involving a jade shipment transported by Wanlutong, has a conspicuously blank driver column, leading them to suspect deliberate concealment linked to Wu Gang's death. As they work, a group of assailants, acting on Wan Heda's orders to retrieve the documents, bursts in. They forcibly restrain Wu Zhenfeng and seize the documents.

Despite Wu Zhenfeng's desperate struggle and Yang Ling's quick call to the police from downstairs, the attackers set the documents ablaze and flee. Chen Yu and Wu Zhenfeng frantically try to extinguish the flames, managing to salvage only a few burnt fragments. Wan Heda's subordinate later confirms that while the documents weren't retrieved, they were successfully destroyed. Separately, Wan Mengmeng, suffering severe withdrawal, frantically begs her father for her "Xiao Ma."

Wan Heda brings Dr. Yu, but Mengmeng rejects the doctor, demanding her drug. Wan Heda asks Dr. Yu to inject tranquilizers. After Mengmeng falls asleep, Dr. Yu confronts Wan Heda about his cyclical pattern of calling for help then doing nothing, strongly advising him to send Mengmeng to a rehab center. Wan Heda refuses, citing his daughter's youth and his refusal to acknowledge having an addicted daughter, fearing for his reputation.

Dr. Yu vehemently condemns Wan Heda as selfish, accusing him of prioritizing his image over his daughter's life, and bluntly states that without rehab, Mengmeng is completely ruined. Stunned, Wan Heda extends his hand in thanks, which Dr. Yu rejects due to germs. Wang Yikun finalizes a drug deal with A Can in Kundu, arranging the delivery of "yellow capsules" and "Ma Gu" for the day after tomorrow.

He emphasizes that the specific transporter doesn't matter as long as the goods arrive safely. Simultaneously, Ghost Hand contacts Wu Zhenfeng, instructing him to pick up someone in Waling Town early the next morning, claiming the person is from K and already knows Wu Zhenfeng. Wu Zhenfeng expresses suspicion about the arrangement. Back at the police station, Yang Ling asks Chen Yu if the recent attack was targeting Wu Zhenfeng.

Chen Yu clarifies they were after the leads on his father's case. Lin Dezan reprimands Chen Yu for bringing sensitive documents to an unsafe location instead of the police station, deeming it a serious violation. Chen Yu apologizes, explaining his urgency to verify the USB data, which he believes led to Wan Heda's involvement and the attack. Lin Dezan acknowledges Chen Yu's conclusion but stresses that the power behind Wan Heda remains unknown. He orders continued surveillance on Wan Heda.

Later, police surveillance indicates Wu Zhenfeng has crossed the border, his whereabouts unknown, without informing Chen Yu. Liu Kaihua expresses concern over Chen Yu's judgment. Bowen then reports that Wan Heda also crossed the border just ten minutes after Wu Zhenfeng. Liu Kaihua orders continuous monitoring of both Wu Zhenfeng and Wan Heda's movements, including their return times and whether they return together.

He also instructs strict, covert surveillance and investigation of all vehicles belonging to Wanlutong Transportation Company, emphasizing caution to avoid alerting them. Meanwhile, Jiang Lei meets with Ghost Hand and asks him to find fifteen individuals for an operation, then declares his intention to kill Wu Zhenfeng.

Episode 13 Recap

Wan Heda spotted Wu Zhenfeng at the market and asked him to call Erliang, informing him that the business deal had arrived. Wu Zhenfeng questioned Wan Heda about the circumstances of his father's death, noting Wan Heda's past business relationship with Wu Gang three years prior. Wan Heda retorted that Wu Zhenfeng wouldn't believe him even if he revealed the truth and warned him that his recent escape from Hao Dong was pure luck that wouldn't last.

Erliang arrived, greeting Wu Zhenfeng warmly and acknowledging his hard work over the past two months. Erliang and Wan Heda noted their three-year separation. Erliang then asked Wu Zhenfeng about the progress of his investigation into his father's death, suggesting he drop it if he hadn't found anything. A flashback showed Wu Zhenfeng and Erliang on a mission where their car was attacked. Wu Zhenfeng saved Erliang's life, an act that earned him Erliang's trust.

Wu Zhenfeng then drove the hooded Wan Heda to a fortified base, to discuss re-establishing cooperation. Wan Heda noted Wu Zhenfeng's capability and acknowledged that Erliang's act of saving him three years ago had paid off. Wan Heda expressed reluctance to work with Hao Dong, who had returned to take over his father's position and had since caused many deaths. He implied that transporting goods for Mengka, if it involved Hao Dong, his life would be at risk.

Meanwhile, Jiang Lei pressured Ghost Hand to find fifteen people skilled in pressing tea cakes for an upcoming job. Jiang Lei revealed his intention to frame Wu Zhenfeng, who would be delivering goods, and anticipated Wu Zhenfeng would seek Ghost Hand's help. He promised to forgive Ghost Hand's past wrongdoings if he handled this task successfully.

Jiang Lei further instructed Ghost Hand to attribute all actions to Wu Zhenfeng should Liu Kaihua inquire, reminding him to "burn" Wu Zhenfeng just as he had "burned" A-Shu's boxing gym. At Erliang's drug manufacturing base, Wan Heda approved of the product quality. A deal was quickly struck, with Wan Heda demanding a 10% profit concession for transporting the goods to Hong Kong via his routes. Wan Heda provided Jiang Lei's contact details in Yunhe for the delivery.

Erliang proposed Wu Zhenfeng escort the shipment, citing his familiarity with Yunhe. Wan Heda objected, pointing out Wu Zhenfeng's police surveillance in Yunhe and expressing discomfort with Wu Gang's son escorting goods, given Wu Gang's death marked the end of their previous venture. Despite Wan Heda's reservations, Erliang insisted on Wu Zhenfeng, stating he was his only trustworthy contact with strong local ties in Yunhe. Wan Heda conceded but demanded Wu Zhenfeng immediately contact his subordinates.

Wu Zhenfeng contacted Ghost Hand, instructing him to wait at the Nanshan border the following night at midnight. Separately, Ghost Hand expressed his fears to Jiang Lei, feeling that this mission would lead to his death, but Jiang Lei clarified that Wu Zhenfeng was the intended target. Jiang Lei then cautioned Ghost Hand on what to say to Liu Kaihua when he inquired about the job.

After Wan Heda's departure, a furious Wu Zhenfeng confronted Erliang, hitting him and angrily demanding why he had concealed his long-standing acquaintance with Wan Heda and why he hadn't revealed Hao Dong as his father's killer, particularly after Wu Zhenfeng's near-death experience in Yunhe. Erliang calmly endured the blows, then explained that he had already known Wu Zhenfeng was Wu Gang's son.

He recounted their first meeting in Yunhe three years prior, after Wu Gang's death, when Hao Dong (referred to as K) sought to resume trade with Mengka. Erliang detailed how Wu Zhenfeng unexpectedly appeared at Wuyi Square during the trade, accurately identifying Du San, which led Erliang to realize Wu Zhenfeng's identity. When police surrounded the area, Hao Dong's man, Wang Yikun, shot Du San, who was about to be apprehended, with a bullet originally meant for Erliang.

Erliang then realized that Hao Dong had no intention of trading, only of entrapping him. He clarified that Hao Dong believed Wu Gang was responsible for his father Li Linfan's death, and thus sought revenge upon his return to Yunhe. Erliang admitted that despite Hao Dong's intent to kill him, he had no alternative but to conduct business with him, as Mengka's only viable route for transporting goods to Hong Kong passed through Hao Dong's territory in Yunhe.

Erliang advised Wu Zhenfeng that in their business, one must be pragmatic and let go of emotions. He declared that Wan Heda's willingness to come demonstrated Erliang's good judgment in saving Wu Zhenfeng three years prior. Wu Zhenfeng acknowledged that their mutual life-saving acts now made them even. Erliang revealed his true intention in sending Wu Zhenfeng to Yunhe was to draw out Wan Heda for a business partnership.

He then formally accepted Wu Zhenfeng as his brother, promising to avenge his father's death at the opportune moment. Erliang probed Wu Zhenfeng about his police contact, Chen Yu, noting Chen Yu's surprising capability for a junior officer in handling sensitive cases related to Wu Gang, the "Big Yellow Capsules," a rehab center, and A-Shu's boxing gym. Wu Zhenfeng confirmed Chen Yu's genuine desire to help, attributing it to a past kindness from his father.

Erliang then introduced Wu Zhenfeng to Sister Qiong, seeking her approval for Wu Zhenfeng to join their operations. He emphasized Wu Zhenfeng's capabilities and familiarity with Yunhe, despite it being his first time in such a role. Sister Qiong agreed to give him a chance. Meanwhile, police discovered discrepancies in the Wanlutong company's records, finding that the car involved in Wu Gang's incident belonged to the company, but the driver's name was missing.

This led them to suspect Wu Zhenfeng's border crossing was related to his investigation into his father's death. Chen Yu defended Wu Zhenfeng to Lin Dezan, asserting that if Wu Zhenfeng interacted with drug dealers, it was solely to ensnare them, as he had provided crucial information to the police. Lin Dezan, however, countered that Wu Zhenfeng acted out of self-interest and only revealed information after police had already uncovered it.

Chen Yu adamantly stated his belief that Wu Zhenfeng was not a drug lord, citing evidence that Wanlutong's accounts were fraudulent, that Wu Gang was not involved in drug trafficking prior to his death, and that A-Shu's confession negated the "black-on-black" theory. Lin Dezan scolded Chen Yu for his unconventional reasoning, pointing out that Wu Zhenfeng's presence in Yunhe directly linked Mengka and Hao Dong.

Despite this, Chen Yu asserted that in the absence of complete information, he would rather trust Wu Zhenfeng than anyone else, provoking a frustrated outburst from Lin Dezan. Lin Dezan received a call from Yang Ling, reminding him of her birthday party that evening. He confirmed his attendance and asked Chen Yu for the nearest place to buy a plush toy, to which Chen Yu dryly directed him to Wuyi Square Department Store.

Separately, Hao Dong was informed that the raw materials for "Big Yellow Capsules" and "Magu" had been delivered, and Ghost Hand had been engaged, assuring Hao Dong that Mengka would be ruined. Hao Dong's subordinate expressed concern if Wu Zhenfeng didn't deliver the goods that night. At Yang Ling's cafe, she went downstairs to find Lin Dezan and Yang Xingquan arguing.

Yang Xingquan berated Lin Dezan for allowing Wu Zhenfeng to stay at their home, citing his suspicious activities, including the cafe being burned and his recent border crossing. Yang Ling interjected, calming the argument. Lin Dezan presented her with a doll, her seventeenth over the years. Yang Xingquan, clearly jealous, questioned how many more years Lin Dezan intended to buy them, hinting at his own return as Yang Ling's father.

Yang Ling, understanding his jealousy, prompted Yang Xingquan for her gift, a laptop, which she feigned immense delight over. During the pre-cake celebration, the argument resurfaced. Yang Ling attempted to toast both Lin Dezan, whom she habitually called "Dad Lin," and Yang Xingquan. However, Yang Xingquan insisted she only had one father and repeatedly reminded her of this.

He then demanded Lin Dezan make Wu Zhenfeng move out of their home, linking his presence to the drug issues that affected their family and the recent incident at the cafe. Yang Ling, exasperated, reminded them it was her birthday and scolded them for constantly rehashing old grievances, finally silencing them.

Meanwhile, Ghost Hand informed Liu Kaihua about a lucrative job from a "big boss" who requested Ghost Hand specifically to find people who could press tea cakes, hinting at the large sum he received and his intention to pay back Liu Kaihua. Liu Kaihua pressed for details about the recruitment.

Chen Yu contemplated the perilous situation Wu Zhenfeng might be in, while Wu Zhenfeng, in turn, reflected on Chen Yu's past warnings about his quest for revenge, realizing the sincerity of Chen Yu's concern for his safety. In a clandestine drug factory, the production of "Big Yellow Capsules" was underway, with the drug being tested on lab mice.

A worker noted the high potency and addictive nature of the new drug, warning of potential issues, but was dismissed by another who asserted that any drug that generated profit was acceptable. The second worker then left for Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Liu Kaihua sought out Ghost Hand and directly questioned him about the recruitment task. Ghost Hand truthfully revealed that Wu Zhenfeng had asked him to recruit people for a job taking place at midnight at Guangmang Mountain Tea Factory.

Episode 14 Recap

Hao Dong met with Lao Zhuo in Hong Kong. Lao Zhuo noted it had been almost three years since Hao Dong and Meng Ka had worked together. Hao Dong stated his intention was to cut out Yu Zong and ensure Lao Zhuo would not sell any of Yu Zong’s white powder. Lao Zhuo countered that what was sold in Hong Kong was his decision, and he had already paid Yu Zong. He insisted that white powder must be available.

Hao Dong, however, promised to secure the white powder himself, offering to supplement it with "Xiaoma" and "Dahuang Jiaonang," which he assured Lao Zhuo would be highly profitable in Hong Kong. Hao Dong made it clear that not a single gram of Meng Ka's drugs would pass through him, adding that his visit was merely a courtesy call to avoid future complaints about his lack of "rules."

Lao Zhuo realized that regardless of his stance, he would not be receiving Meng Ka's goods. Liu Kaihua met with Guishou to gather information about tonight's activities. Under coercion from Jiang Lei, Guishou falsely claimed that Wu Zhenfeng had asked him to recruit people for an operation at the Guangmangshan Tea Factory at midnight. Guishou also stated he needed to pick up Wu Zhenfeng at 11 PM near the Nanding Village entrance along the borderline.

After this, Liu Kaihua reported to Lin Dezan, confirming that fifty kilograms of drugs, packaged as tea cakes (each weighing about fifty grams), were set to cross the border and be transported from Yang Xingquan’s Guangmangshan Tea Factory. Liu Kaihua requested that Yang Yi and Chen Yu be excused from the operation, but Lin Dezan insisted on including them, viewing it as a crucial test of their trustworthiness.

Wan Heda arrived at Yang Xingquan's tea factory with an unusually large truck to transport the tea. Yang Xingquan expressed concern about the vehicle's size, fearing his valuable old tea, which he compared to delicate porcelain antiques, might be damaged during transit. Wan Heda, however, confidently assured him that the goods would be delivered perfectly intact. Concerned about Wu Zhenfeng's activities, Chen Yu met him at Wu Gang’s grave.

Chen Yu presented Wu Zhenfeng with a precious family photo, which he had discovered while organizing his home. Wu Zhenfeng, however, insisted Chen Yu keep it, stating Chen Yu needed it more and it would be inconvenient for him to keep it. Chen Yu then probed Wu Zhenfeng about his whereabouts the previous night and his plans for the current evening, implicitly testing him.

Wu Zhenfeng, seemingly aware of the test, explained he had been to Waling Town investigating workers from his father's shop about the driver on the day of his father's accident, but found no useful information because the former owner had sold the shop. He stated he had to go out again tonight and wouldn't return until tomorrow. As Wu Zhenfeng departed, Chen Yu earnestly told him to "trust me," emphasizing that Wu Gang would be saddened if he didn’t.

Shortly after, Wu Zhenfeng contacted his police handler, Chen Liwen, confirming that at midnight, drugs disguised as tea would be transported from the Guangmangshan Tea Factory, likely using Wan Heda's truck. He added that the Yunhe police were already aware of the situation. Chen Liwen instructed him to maintain strict surveillance and refrain from taking any direct action, assuring Wu Zhenfeng that they would coordinate the broader deployment.

Lin Dezan assembled his team for a briefing, outlining the plan to intercept fifty kilograms of drugs, packaged as tea cakes, at the Guangmangshan Tea Factory. He emphasized that their mission was to capture all culprits and ensure not a single gram of drugs left Yunhe. However, during the briefing, Provincial Deputy Chief Chen Liwen arrived, announcing that the operation was now under the direct supervision of the provincial authorities.

He clarified that the main capture phase would occur in Hong Kong, with Yunhe police’s role limited to meticulous monitoring and evidence collection. Lin Dezan, though displeased, relayed the new orders, instructing his officers to maintain strict surveillance and refrain from any arrests without his direct command. Chen Yu requested to keep his mobile phone, concerned about potential messages from Wu Zhenfeng, but Lin Dezan denied the request, enforcing the standard protocol for all officers.

Despite this, Chen Yu pleaded with Lin Dezan to answer his phone if it rang. Liu Kaihua, Jiang Lei’s uncle, gave Jiang Lei a watch equipped with a miniature camera, instructing him to record details about the drugs, weapons, and individuals present at the scene. He warned Jiang Lei to stay discreet and emphasized that his safety was the top priority, advising him not to film if it became too dangerous and to run or hide if discovered.

Jiang Lei was visibly terrified, expressing fears for his life if the device were found, and initially hesitated to take the watch. However, Liu Kaihua insisted, promising to track his location via the watch and ensure his safety, even suggesting he leave Yunhe after the operation. Shortly after this exchange, Hao Dong called Jiang Lei, asking if he had completed his task.

Jiang Lei confirmed it was handled, stating that Wu Zhenfeng would not escape tonight and Meng Ka's drugs would be intercepted. Although Hao Dong detected a tremor in Jiang Lei’s voice and inquired about it, Jiang Lei adamantly denied that anything was wrong. After his call with Hao Dong, Jiang Lei called Gouzi, instructing him to personally pick up and verify the goods, even stating that Gouzi would be the "boss" for the night.

Lao Zhuo and Hao Dong had dinner together, awaiting the arrival of Qiong Jie. During their wait, Hao Dong warned Lao Zhuo to be careful about what he said, implying that failure to do so would result in him not receiving the "Xiaoma" and "Dahuang Jiaonang." When Qiong Jie finally arrived, she greeted Hao Dong, remarking on how rare it was to see him. They all raised their glasses, toasting to a new partnership and setting aside any past enmities. As night fell, Chen Yu and Yang Yi positioned themselves to observe the mountain slope through binoculars. They soon spotted a figure descending, which they identified as Wu Zhenfeng.

Episode 15 Recap

As the planned drug trafficking operation at the tea factory is set to begin, following extensive preparations and the provincial police's directive for surveillance-only operations, both criminal and police forces finalize their meticulous preparations. Wan Heda's associates thoroughly inspect vehicles, documents, and cargo, while a warning is issued to be cautious of Jiang Lei at the tea factory. Wan Heda himself confirms his departure to Shengzhou.

Concurrently, police units report their readiness to Director Lin Dezan, who gives the order for all teams to proceed as planned. Police surveillance teams monitor Wu Zhenfeng's group as they approach and enter the tea factory. Inside, Jiang Lei, acting on direct orders from Hao Dong, instructs his subordinate Gouzi to eliminate Guishou and Wu Zhenfeng before the police arrive. As the police observe, Chen Yu appears distracted, seemingly awaiting a message.

His partner, Yang Yi, expresses strong doubts about Wu Zhenfeng, suggesting he might be a drug trafficker who is merely manipulating Chen Yu for his own revenge-driven agenda. Chen Yu staunchly defends Wu Zhenfeng, recalling his pleas for trust and promises of sharing information regarding his father's old case. Meanwhile, Erliang gives Wu Zhenfeng final instructions for the cargo delivery, emphasizing that Wu Zhenfeng's life is paramount, even if the goods must be abandoned.

Police intelligence confirms Wu Zhenfeng is transporting 40-50 kilograms of cargo in a black Beijing Hyundai with a fake license plate, heading toward the tea factory. Chen Yu continues to be plagued by Wu Zhenfeng's earlier words about trusting him. Yang Yi snaps him back to focus as Wu Zhenfeng, carrying two large boxes, subtly acknowledges Chen Yu's presence with a nod from a distance. At the tea factory, the inspection of Wu Zhenfeng's cargo begins.

Immediately, it's discovered that the "goods" are nothing more than lime powder. A furious confrontation erupts, and Wu Zhenfeng is attacked. As chaos ensues, Jiang Lei, following Hao Dong's orders, ignites the tea factory, causing a massive blaze to cover his tracks and facilitate an escape, also locking the doors. Police monitoring the scene report the fight and fire to Director Lin Dezan.

Deputy Chief Chen Liwen, upon receiving the urgent update about the escalating fire and violence, orders all police units to storm the factory immediately, prioritizing officer safety while ensuring no suspects escape. During this escalating chaos, police monitoring the scene express frustration that their view of the situation inside the factory is obscured, indicating Jiang Lei turned his camera away from the critical moments.

Amidst the roaring flames and collapsing structure, Wu Zhenfeng desperately attempts to help a severely injured Guishou escape through a smashed window. However, an internal explosion seals their path, and Guishou perishes in the inferno. Police units charge in, battling the fire and apprehending several individuals, including Wu Zhenfeng and Jiang Lei. As the building threatens to collapse, Chen Yu instinctively throws himself over Wu Zhenfeng, shielding him from harm.

Yang Xingquan arrives at the scene in despair, witnessing his tea factory reduced to ashes. Simultaneously, in Shengzhou, Wan Heda receives confirmation that his actual shipment has arrived safely. He learns of the tea factory fire and, in a conversation with his associate Ah Kun, implies the blaze was a diversion, allowing their real goods to slip through while police were occupied.

Wan Heda then confronts Hao Dong, expressing his fury at being kept in the dark about such a risky plan and accusing him of recklessness. Hao Dong dismisses Wan Heda's concerns, implying Wan Heda would not have been able to maintain the deception if he had known the full extent of the plot, and mockingly suggests that the Mengka drug cartel would not "let them off" easily after the fake shipment, then hangs up laughing, not taking Wan Heda seriously.

During interrogation, Wu Zhenfeng appears withdrawn, haunted by Guishou's death, and struggles to engage with Liu Kaihua. Liu Kaihua suspects Wu Zhenfeng's involvement in drug trafficking, despite the discovery of fake goods, and presses him about who recruited him, to which Wu Zhenfeng names "Guishou" and "Brother Gou." In a separate interrogation room, an agitated Jiang Lei denies setting the fire and vehemently accuses Wu Zhenfeng of drug trafficking, citing his origins from Mengka.

Jiang Lei then makes a startling claim, stating that Liu Kaihua is his uncle and that he was merely following Liu Kaihua's instructions to film the events at the factory, suggesting he was cooperating with the police. Liu Kaihua, growing increasingly frustrated with Wu Zhenfeng, urges him to reveal the identity of "K," the suspected head of the organization, warning that the fire was likely an attempt on Wu Zhenfeng's life.

However, Wu Zhenfeng deflects, asserting that Jiang Lei holds more information about the tea factory incident, a response that infuriates Liu Kaihua. Later, Yang Xingquan is hospitalized after collapsing from distress upon witnessing the destruction of his tea factory. His son visits him, expressing remorse for trusting Wu Zhenfeng and inadvertently implicating his father, though he remains hopeful that Chen Yu and the authorities will uncover the full truth. Director Lin Dezan and Old Zhuo also visit Yang Xingquan to check on his well-being.

Episode 16 Recap

Liu Kaihua, accompanied by Lin Dezan, visited Yang Xingquan in the hospital for questioning about the tea factory incident. Liu Kaihua introduced himself as the captain of the anti-drug team and informed Yang Xingquan that the interview would be recorded. He pressed Yang Xingquan on why he was near the packaging workshop during the fire, to which Yang Xingquan replied he was restless and walking around, having seen people working in the workshop.

Liu Kaihua pointed out that only tea factory workers should be there at night, yet none of the arrested suspects were workers. He directly asked if Yang Xingquan knew about the drug deal happening in his tea factory, which angered Yang Xingquan.

Yang Xingquan then turned to Lin Dezan, demanding he face him, and suggested that the incident might be a warning from the criminals, perhaps because Yang Xingquan had sent people to Mengka to inquire about Wu Zhenfeng for Lin Dezan. Lin Dezan responded that he didn't know why this happened. Yang Ling, present during the interrogation, expressed distress, lamenting her father's losses. Lin Dezan reassured her that they would investigate thoroughly.

As Lin Dezan and Liu Kaihua were leaving, police officers identified Liu Kaihua and his nephew, Jiang Lei, to each other. Meanwhile, Qiong Jie confronted Old Zhuo, accusing him of knowing about "their plan" regarding the problematic Mengka shipment. Just then, Hao Dong arrived, having distributed his goods to buyers.

Qiong Jie pointed a gun at Hao Dong, angrily asking why he brought lime powder to their first cooperation, interpreting it as a deliberate act of arson to expose Mengka to the police. Hao Dong, unfazed, stated he had received "K's welcome gift," implying he knew K was behind the fake goods. He then taunted Qiong Jie, asking if Mengka had a police informant or if her subordinates were his spies.

Old Zhuo attempted to de-escalate, suggesting that initial collaborations often breed mistrust and hoping for better cooperation next time. However, Hao Dong defiantly stated that as long as he was alive, Mengka's goods would never enter Hong Kong. He revealed he investigated his father, Li Linfan's, death three years ago, stating Wu Gang was not involved in their business and questioning why he would target his father.

Qiong Jie claimed Wu Gang was not from Mengka, but Hao Dong retorted that she knew the truth and suggested checking their CEO Yu's accounts. He warned them not to let their personal grievances interfere with his business. Old Zhuo reassured Hao Dong that with K's goods, earning money wouldn't be an issue. Wang Yikun arrived to speak with Wan Heda, who was clearly upset about the recent incident.

Wang Yikun tried to explain that Hao Dong was targeting Mengka, but Wan Heda demanded to know why Wang Yikun didn't inform him, citing the risk to his own men who were en route to pick up the goods. Wang Yikun revealed Hao Dong didn't trust Wan Heda. Wan Heda angrily retorted, questioning why, after three years of no contact with Mengka, Hao Dong would distrust him.

He then turned the conversation, accusing Wang Yikun of orchestrating Wu Gang's murder three years ago, driving Wu Gang back across the border, and killing Du San at Wuyi Plaza. Their heated argument was interrupted by Wan Mengmeng, who demanded to know what they were discussing. Despite Wan Heda's attempts to send her away, she insisted on an answer from Wang Yikun.

Wan Heda then told his daughter that Wang Yikun was a murderer, having killed both before returning to China and domestically, and questioned if she still wanted to be with him. Wang Yikun defiantly responded to the accusations with a "So what?" , prompting him to warn Wan Heda not to push him too far. Analyzing the tea factory evidence, Chen Yu concluded that Li Shougai and Gou Sheng died from suffocation, severe burns, and various wounds, indicating a struggle.

Cotton strips soaked in diesel were found in the packaging workshop, suggesting premeditated arson. Chen Yu also reviewed Jiang Lei's evidence video but found no footage of the perpetrators pouring diesel or throwing the cloth strips, which he found suspicious given the scale of the fire. Chen Yu reported his findings to Lin Dezan, stating that he suspected Jiang Lei deliberately omitted these crucial details from his recording.

He further noted that when Wu Zhenfeng produced the lime powder, Jiang Lei's video showed a minute and twenty-three seconds of unrelated angles. Chen Yu speculated that Jiang Lei might have been on the phone during this time, possibly contacting a leader from the K organization for instructions after discovering the fake goods. Chen Yu suggested that if his hypothesis was correct, the entire tea factory incident was a "black-on-black" operation. This deeply angered Liu Kaihua.

Wang Yikun revealed to Wan Heda that Hao Dong's return was not just for business but primarily to avenge his father, Li Linfan. Wang Yikun then pressed Wan Heda, asking if his relationship with Mengka before Hao Dong's return was deep, and if Mengka had offered him any promises regarding Li Linfan's death. Wang Yikun further exposed Wan Heda's prior visit to Mengka before Li Linfan's death three years ago.

He pointed out the suspicious detail that on the day Li Linfan died, all of Wan Heda's company drivers were coincidentally given the day off, implying Wan Heda's involvement. Wang Yikun then stated that given these facts, Hao Dong could not have trusted Wan Heda with his plan to take down Mengka. Wan Heda glared at Wan Mengmeng, realizing she must have leaked this information. He asked Wang Yikun if he would tell Hao Dong what Mengmeng revealed.

Wang Yikun, expressing his love for Mengmeng and acknowledging Wan Heda as her father, subtly indicated he wouldn't, but advised Wan Heda to carefully consider his attitude towards Hao Dong's return. Enraged, Wan Heda shouted at Wang Yikun to leave.

When Wan Mengmeng tried to follow Wang Yikun, Wan Heda shoved her to the ground, delivering a chilling warning: she needs to think carefully about what she says, as he can love her but also cripple her if she defies him again. Liu Kaihua vehemently defended Jiang Lei, explaining that he personally instructed Jiang Lei to prioritize safety over evidence collection in dangerous situations.

He clarified that Jiang Lei's failure to record the diesel pouring was due to his inexperience and the need to discreetly operate his new equipment while infiltrating the site, emphasizing the severe consequences if he were discovered. Liu Kaihua also explained that when Wu Zhenfeng presented fake goods, Jiang Lei's priority was survival.

He argued that Jiang Lei’s decision to hide and wait, then return to filming, was a normal survival instinct for someone risking his life for the first time in such a dangerous environment purely to support the police. Liu Kaihua then sharply criticized Chen Yu, attributing the tea factory incident to Chen Yu's "wrong judgment and blind trust" in Wu Zhenfeng.

He argued that Chen Yu's trust encouraged Wu Zhenfeng not to use real drugs, and warned Chen Yu that he made the same mistake three years ago, suggesting Wu Zhenfeng has selfish motives and might be using the police. Chen Yu, plagued by doubts, recalled his interactions with Wu Zhenfeng. He remembered questioning Wu Zhenfeng about his whereabouts and activities, including who sent him across the border and his visit to Waling Town.

Chen Yu had warned Wu Zhenfeng about the dangers of seeking revenge through drug involvement, hoping he hadn't gone too deep. Wu Zhenfeng, however, had firmly promised that if he made any contact with drug traffickers and found substantial evidence, he would inform Chen Yu immediately, urging him to trust him.

Chen Yu also reflected on Liu Kaihua's accusations, especially the warning that Wu Zhenfeng might have selfish motives and could be using the police, and that Chen Yu's misplaced trust had averted a worse outcome with Jiang Lei. Chen Yu, visibly distressed by the recent events and his conflicting feelings about Wu Zhenfeng, sought out Yang Ling. She was silently sitting downstairs at her closed coffee shop, having put up a 'rest' sign.

Chen Yu retreated to his room, punching a bag in frustration, feeling used by Wu Zhenfeng despite his trust. Hearing his anguish, Yang Ling, who had been crying downstairs, rushed upstairs to comfort him, assuring him it's not his fault. Chen Yu, however, blamed himself for repeating a past mistake from three years ago, lamenting his failure to find evidence against Wu Zhenfeng and his inability to protect those he cares about, including Yang Ling and her father.

Yang Ling offered to help investigate Wu Zhenfeng, suggesting her father, having stayed in Mengka, might get information, or she could do it herself. Chen Yu rejected her offer, deeming it too dangerous for her to get further involved. A flashback revealed Yang Ling's traumatic childhood memory: as a little girl, she hid under a bed, witnessing a violent struggle and her mother's death. She cried, wishing her father had been home to protect her mother.

Her father, Yang Xingquan, eventually returned, finding his wife's body. He then instructed young Yang Ling to take a specific item and find Lin Dezan on Zhengan Road, making her repeat the instructions. Yang Ling confided in Chen Yu, explaining that Wu Zhenfeng's actions, both three years ago and recently, represented an unresolved conflict for him, just as her mother's death twenty years prior remained her own profound heartache and a barrier between her and her father.

She asserted that Chen Yu can only find peace by arresting Wu Zhenfeng, and she can only reconcile with her father by catching the drug traffickers responsible for her family's tragedy. Meanwhile, Chen Liwen questioned Wu Zhenfeng about the lime powder swap at the transaction site, suspecting it was a pre-planned operation and wondering how the criminals knew about the police's deployment.

Wu Zhenfeng, however, shifted the focus to the brutal death of "Ghost Hand," and then brought up his father's case, reminding Chen Liwen that his father's last call three years ago was to Chen Liwen, yet no progress had been made.

Wu Zhenfeng bitterly accused the police of not trusting him and highlighted that after he immediately reported the tea factory incident, someone within the police force leaked the information to Mengka, leading to the goods swap and nearly costing him his life. He vehemently claimed there was a problem within the police. Chen Liwen assured Wu Zhenfeng that he would investigate thoroughly and provide answers.

Liu Kaihua visited his nephew, Jiang Lei, in the detention center, bringing him a blanket and a box of drinks. He advised Jiang Lei to share the drinks, get along with his cellmates, and not try to be a hero, emphasizing that the detention center was different from the police station where Jiang Lei was previously held. Liu Kaihua encouraged him to endure for a few more days, assuring him he would be out soon.

Meanwhile, Yang Ling helped Chen Yu with his investigation. She showed him a photo of Wan Mengmeng, whom Chen Yu recognized from a past encounter at his father's tea factory. Yang Ling offered to investigate Wan Mengmeng, mentioning that a friend, Xiao Zhang, who has worked in many shops, might be able to gather information. Discussing Wan Heda's company data, which supposedly burned, Chen Yu asked if there was no electronic version.

Yang Ling dismissed Wan Heda's claim of only having handwritten records, arguing that all businesses, even her small coffee shop, use digital systems, and a large enterprise like Wanlutong would certainly have electronic backups. She concluded that if Wan Heda was hiding the data, it must contain incriminating information. Acting on this, Chen Yu covertly infiltrated Wan Heda's company at night, but his mission was jeopardized when he accidentally tripped over a bucket, alerting a patrolling guard upstairs.

Episode 17 Recap

Wu Zhenfeng, in an interrogation room, was sharply criticized by Chen Liwen. Chen asserted that Wu's relentless pursuit of revenge for his father had been a selfish and futile endeavor, leading him into K's trap where K had no intention of doing business with Mengka, but rather set a fire with fake goods. Chen reminded Wu of their initial contact, when Wu called him, identifying himself as Wu Gang's son and claiming to have crucial leads on "Big Yellow Capsules."

Wu had explained that his father's last phone call was to Chen, suggesting trust, and that K's people were responsible for his father's death. Wu proposed a "win-win" situation: police seize drugs while he gets his revenge, offering information in exchange for access to "Ghost Hand" in a rehabilitation center, which would lead him closer to K. Chen had indeed helped Wu get into the rehab center.

However, Chen now argued that Wu's lone efforts had failed, as Mengka and K had exploited him. Wu, feeling desperate, confessed that after three years of doing everything he could, nothing had changed, leaving him unsure what else to do. While acknowledging Wu's deep desire to clear his father's name, Chen maintained that Wu's father had "died for a worthy cause."

He stressed that even if Wu achieved his revenge, countless others would still suffer as long as drugs existed, a future Chen believed Wu would not want. The only true solution, Chen insisted, was to eradicate drugs completely. Later, back in his cell, Wu quietly reflected on Chen Liwen's words. Meanwhile, Hao Dong met with Wan Heda, subtly questioning Wan's trust and suggesting his actions were aimed at protecting Wan from Mengka, implying that Hao Dong was deceiving Mengka.

He then advised Wan to maintain distance from Mengka to avoid suspicion. Elsewhere, Erliang expressed concern to Qiong Jie about their large stock of unsold goods. He believed Hao Dong intended for Mengka to take responsibility for Li Linfan's death, implying that he, Erliang, might be made the scapegoat. Qiong Jie seemed resigned, mentioning their ties were cut three years ago. Erliang subsequently informed Yu Zong about Wu Zhenfeng's brief arrest and imminent release due to lack of evidence.

Yu Zong, grateful for an earlier warning, instructed Erliang to swap the goods but proceed with the original plan, convinced that K had orchestrated the entire transaction. Yu Zong also urged Erliang and Qiong Jie to manipulate Wan Heda, as he doubted Hao Dong's complete trust in Wan. Hao Dong visited a chemist, providing a large sum of money and guaranteeing financial security in exchange for a stable supply of "Big Yellow Capsules."

The chemist, however, reported that their attempts to replicate the drug were unsuccessful, emphasizing the critical lack of precise recipes and production steps. He warned Hao Dong that the inaccurately produced drug could be lethal and pleaded for more time to refine the formula. Under pressure from Hong Kong to quickly secure the product, Hao Dong impatiently dismissed the chemist's concerns. He then took some of the newly made capsules and instructed Manzi to find people to test them.

Yang Ling received a call from her friend, Xiao Zhang, who had discovered that Wan Mengmeng was a frequent visitor at the "Cloud Peak Disco," a popular spot for social media influencers. Separately, Yang Xingquan convened a meeting with his tea factory workers, demanding to know who had allowed outsiders into the workshop before it was burned down.

He warned of severe consequences for anyone concealing information but offered leniency and support for their families if they confessed to the police. Noticing Jiang Yizhe's agitated behavior and a distinct smell, Yang Xingquan confronted him, accusing him of drug use and involvement in the incident. Under duress, Jiang Yizhe fearfully admitted that "Lei Ge" was involved.

Later, Jiang Yizhe confessed to the police that a man named Gouzi had approached him the day before the fire, offering him 20,000 yuan to secretly open the factory door at night. Jiang Yizhe overheard Gouzi on the phone with someone called "Lei Ge," who subsequently entered the workshop and forced the workers out, though Jiang Yizhe did not witness what happened next. Yang Ling went to Cloud Peak Disco alone.

Inside, Manzi was distributing the newly made "Big Yellow Capsules" to a group, who eagerly consumed them in a private room. Yang Ling searched the disco, eventually noticing suspicious activity in one of the private rooms, where people were exhibiting signs of drug intoxication. Manzi spotted Yang Ling, recognizing her as being associated with Wu Zhenfeng and the police, and immediately called Hao Dong. Meanwhile, Chen Yu was secretly investigating Wan Heda's logistics company.

He narrowly avoided being detected by security while searching offices, where he discovered some suspicious CDs. He then received a message directly from Yang Ling, confirming Yang Ling's presence at the disco. As Yang Ling attempted to leave the disco, Manzi intercepted her, forcibly dragging her into a private room. He aggressively questioned her about what she had witnessed and threatened her with the "Big Yellow" pills, confirming that those who had consumed them earlier had gone mad.

Hao Dong, upon hearing this from Manzi, ordered him to swiftly retrieve all individuals who had taken the drug. Manzi, in the ensuing chaos, left Yang Ling in the custody of another person. Chen Yu arrived at the disco and, hearing Yang Ling's desperate calls, rushed into the private room. However, he was quickly knocked unconscious. Amidst the pandemonium, a young woman named Tongtong, who had consumed the drug, tragically self-immolated, causing widespread panic, including to a terrified Wan Mengmeng.

Hao Dong, informed of the escalation, instructed Manzi to immediately evacuate the scene with the remaining drug users. Before fleeing, Manzi scattered some of the "Big Yellow" pills near the unconscious Chen Yu. Soon after, police arrived and secured the chaotic scene, led by Liu Kaihua. The manager of the disco explained that Chen Yu had been preparing drinks in room 313 when a fight broke out, and he found a man and a woman unconscious.

When Liu Kaihua questioned Chen Yu's presence, Chen Yu explained that Yang Ling was helping him locate Wan Mengmeng, as he sought to confirm Wan Mengmeng's drug use to build a case against Wan Heda. Liu Kaihua sternly admonished Chen Yu for not reporting his actions beforehand. An officer then reported finding illicit drugs, including "magu" and suspicious capsules, on Chen Yu.

The manager and an eyewitness claimed the drugs were supplied by Chen Yu, even alleging he had more at home. Despite Liu Kaihua's apparent skepticism, the situation was compounded. Consequently, Lin Dezan, citing the ongoing investigation into the Cloud Peak Disco incident and Chen Yu's unauthorized entry into Wan Heda's logistics company, suspended Chen Yu from the case to avoid any conflict of interest.

Episode 18 Recap

An anonymous tip led police to Chen Yu's room, where Liu Kaihua, despite his initial disbelief, found Dahuang capsules. Liu Kaihua ordered Chen Yu to return to the station for questioning and instructed Lan Anran to check nearby surveillance and Yang Yi to check Yun Dian bar surveillance. Soon after, Yang Xingquan arrived, deeply concerned for Yang Ling.

He scolded Chen Yu for allowing Yang Ling to go to such a dangerous place, but Yang Ling quickly interjected, assuring her father she was unharmed and that she had gone there on her own initiative, absolving Chen Yu of blame. Liu Kaihua told Yang Xingquan to let them investigate. Meanwhile, Hao Dong paid Manzi a sum of money, instructing him to hide for two days.

Shortly after Manzi's departure, Wang Yikun arrived, informing Hao Dong that he had hidden Mengmeng and assured him she would not reveal anything. Hao Dong grew furious, deeming Mengmeng a burden who would eventually expose Wang Yikun. He pointed out that if the police found Mengmeng, they would find evidence against Wan Heda, questioning how long Wang Yikun could possibly hide her. Back at the station, Liu Kaihua sternly interrogated Chen Yu about the drugs found in his room.

While affirming he never doubted Chen Yu, Liu Kaihua demanded a full explanation for the night's events, especially why Chen Yu had allowed Yang Ling to go to a dangerous place alone, emphasizing the potential risks and Chen Yu's poor judgment as a police officer. He pressed Chen Yu on his whereabouts and unusual attire. Chen Yu admitted his mistakes and accepted full responsibility, insisting he must investigate the matter thoroughly. He then requested a private meeting with Lin Dezan.

Yang Xingquan expressed to Yang Ling that while he had tolerated the burning of the tea factory and his own personal grievances, he could not bear seeing her endangered. He declared his intention to speak with Lin Dezan the following day to have Chen Yu move out, advising Yang Ling to maintain her distance, particularly from Chen Yu's work. Yang Ling apologized for causing her father worry but remained resolute in her determination to help Chen Yu.

She asked Yang Xingquan to help her obtain transportation records of Wu Gang from three years ago, knowing his old ties with Wan Heda. Yang Xingquan warned her not to suffer the same fate as him, where helping others led to unbearable consequences. Yang Ling, visibly distressed, spoke of her painful childhood, losing her mother and then her father.

She expressed her understanding of his hatred for drugs, stating that she was helping herself, not just Chen Yu, as she feared losing her father again. She tearfully asked him to face these challenges alongside her. Yang Xingquan, with tears in his eyes, regretfully acknowledged losing over a decade of time with her and lovingly bandaged her arm. Wu Zhenfeng met with Chen Liwen, recounting his feelings before a recent mission.

He described watching an incense stick burn down, feeling prepared for anything, yet realizing upon arrival how unprepared he truly was when a living person, someone who had just spoken to him, burned to death before his eyes. He witnessed drug traffickers brazenly destroying everything around him. He spoke of his three years in Mengka, believing he had seen every form of drug, only to realize in that moment that drug traffickers were far more terrifying than the drugs themselves.

He wondered if his father had experienced similar suffering and despair, which might have driven him to the police. Chen Liwen consoled Wu Zhenfeng, emphasizing that his newfound understanding of his father's hardships should make him realize the immense sacrifice his father made. He urged Wu Zhenfeng not to fear or wallow in pain, as it would be useless, and reminded him that as police officers, they had no choice but to face their responsibilities.

Chen Yu met with Lin Dezan, presenting him with a disc containing the vehicle ledgers of Wan Heda Transportation Company. He urged Lin Dezan to examine the records from the day Wu Gang died, convinced that they held crucial information. Lin Dezan questioned how Chen Yu acquired the disc, to which Chen Yu admitted he had stolen it.

Lin Dezan sternly reprimanded him, asserting that unjust procedures lead to unjust results, a principle a police officer should uphold, and threatened disciplinary action. Chen Yu accepted any punishment but implored Lin Dezan to focus on Wan Heda and Wanlutong companies, stressing that a thorough investigation was needed for the truth of three years ago, not just for Wu Zhenfeng or himself. Zhou Bowen presented the findings of the investigation into Li Tong's death.

The 21-year-old streamer died from burns, but an autopsy revealed chemical residues, including diphenoxylate, methamphetamine, and caffeine, in her lungs and respiratory tract, indicating drug use. Two capsules, one found at "Wei Xiang Restaurant" and another at "Yun Dian Disco," were compared; the Yun Dian capsule matched the chemicals in the victim, suggesting she had ingested it. Both capsules were highly similar to the "Dahuang Capsule," leading investigators to suspect they were high-quality imitations.

Surveillance footage from Mi Xiang Cafe showed a masked man entering Chen Yu's room shortly after the Yun Dian incident, suggesting he was the one who planted the drugs, thereby clearing Chen Yu of suspicion. However, due to poor lighting and the man's mask, his identity remained unknown. Surveillance at Yun Dian bar was too dark and single-angled to identify Yang Ling's attacker, and there was no surveillance within the VIP rooms.

Liu Kaihua noted that Li Tong and Wan Mengmeng had entered the same private room, and Wan Mengmeng had fled in a panic. Chen Yu suggested that finding and thoroughly investigating Wan Mengmeng and her social connections was the top priority. However, Lin Dezan announced that due to Chen Yu's unauthorized entry into Wanlutong Company, he was temporarily suspended from this case to avoid suspicion, though he was still required to report to work daily.

When Chen Yu asked when he could resume full duties, Lin Dezan stated he could return once evidence was found and the case was clear. In a separate incident, a formulator angrily confronted Hao Dong, accusing him of stealing the important ratio of the Dahuang Capsule and causing significant trouble. Hao Dong explained he was anxious due to the low stock of Dahuang Capsules and wanted to try synthesizing them sooner.

The formulator dismissed him, warning him not to visit his premises again without reason. Later, Chen Liwen announced that a large quantity of magu and new drugs, including Dahuang Capsules, had been discovered in Hong Kong. Analysis indicated these drugs flowed out of Yunhe on the night the tea factory burned, confirming that the fire was merely a diversion, a feint by the traffickers.

Chen Liwen acknowledged his personal oversight as the direct leader but also criticized everyone for failing to detect this diversion. He questioned their commitment and whether they were worthy of their uniforms and badges. While acknowledging the complex drug situation and the challenges in Yunhe, he asserted these were no excuses for their shortcomings.

He then issued a command for a thorough investigation to identify the source of the Dahuang Capsule imitations and to release a public statement explaining the tea factory drug trafficking and the Yun Dian incident, providing a reasonable explanation to the public. Lin Dezan and Liu Kaihua immediately rose to accept responsibility. Chen Yu and all other police officers also stood up, expressing their willingness to share the burden.

Chen Liwen acknowledged their hard work, their meager salaries, and the immense pain and grievances they endured. He affirmed his belief that they had dedicated their lives to this cause, urging them to stand tall, trust themselves and their comrades, and believe in their iron will. He called on them to summon courage and strength to defeat the drug traffickers and completely eradicate drug-related issues in Yunhe.

Yang Yi approached Liu Kaihua, confessing that on the night of the tea factory fire, while en route to the border with Chen Yu, he had used a public phone to call his sister, Yang Ling. He clarified that he had not revealed any operational details but had merely warned her not to return to the tea factory due to safety concerns. He apologized for breaking protocol and requested disciplinary action.

Liu Kaihua instructed him to write a detailed report and a self-criticism. Lin Dezan then requested a private meeting with Chen Liwen, admitting his work failures and asking for disciplinary action against himself, as well as a reconsideration of the Yunhe County Public Security Bureau Chief position, hoping for a renewed start in anti-drug efforts. He also requested not to be transferred from Yunhe. Chen Liwen questioned his insistence on staying.

Lin Dezan explained his long-standing commitment to eradicating criminal organizations and drug traffickers in Yunhe, highlighting the sacrifices made: Gong's gunshot wound, Liu Kaihua's HIV exposure preventing marriage, his own 20-year-old informant and her daughter being drawn back into danger, and his fallen comrades in the martyr's cemetery. He felt he had failed the people of Yunhe and the families destroyed by drugs. Chen Liwen expressed understanding and admiration for Lin Dezan's dedication.

Chen Liwen then apologized for having suspected Lin Dezan in the past, particularly regarding the death of Old Ba and the stagnation of anti-drug efforts in Yunhe. He admitted to sending Lan Anran to monitor Lin Dezan's every move. He acknowledged Lin Dezan's previous statement that in a place like Yunhe, not maintaining suspicion amounted to dereliction of duty.

Chen Liwen declared that from that day forward, he would no longer doubt Lin Dezan's integrity as an officer and expressed hope that Lin Dezan would trust him without reservation. He recalled Lin Dezan's impactful words from three years prior, when he was commended: "No compromise in life, no regrets in death" when facing drug criminals. Finally, Chen Liwen and Lin Dezan jointly informed Wu Zhenfeng about his father's case from three years ago.

His father, Wu Gang, was killed in retaliation for exposing drug dealer Li Linfan. Due to the incident occurring overseas, information was limited. However, thorough investigation revealed that on August 28, 2016, Wu Gang's "Wu's Jade Business" had rented a truck from "Wanlutong Company" to transport jade. His employee, He Jiashu, was heavily bribed to secretly hide 10 kilograms of heroin within the cargo.

The truck driver, Wang Yikun, did not follow the planned route but instead drove to a secluded road in Walin Town, where he, along with "Drug Three" who was ambushed there, murdered Wu Gang and staged the scene to appear as a "dog-eat-dog" conflict among criminals. Wang Yikun currently resided in Yunhe and was known to have close ties with the "K Group." Based on these findings, the Yunhe County Public Security Bureau officially declared that Wu Gang had been framed. Wu Zhenfeng was then told to get into the car.

Episode 19 Recap

Following the confirmation of his father Wu Gang's innocence, Wu Zhenfeng tearfully accepted the Yunhe County Public Security Bureau's deep apologies for the injustice suffered three years prior. He pledged to cooperate fully with police operations, share everything he knew, and act as an ordinary person with a conscience who deeply detests drugs, aiming to help apprehend all suspects.

Soon after his release, Wu Zhenfeng was informed that Gui Shou was buried in Nanshan Cemetery and was advised to visit him. He then connected with Erliang, who was surprised at his swift release. Wu Zhenfeng explained it was only deemed a fight, resulting in 15 days of detention, and his "police brother" had spoken up for him. He also indicated that K had set them up, and it shouldn't be left unaddressed.

Erliang advised Wu Zhenfeng to rest in Yunhe, promising to contact him when needed. Meanwhile, the police initiated a comprehensive search for Wan Mengmeng, contacting various police stations, compiling hotel registration records, and distributing her photos and information. Liu Kaihua suggested sending officers to Wan Heda's house.

Although concerned about alarming Wan Heda, Lin Dezan dispatched Yang Yi and Lan Anran with strict instructions: they were only to inquire about Wan Mengmeng and nothing else, and they were not to force entry without a search warrant. Chen Yu, however, expressed his apprehension to Lin Dezan about Wu Zhenfeng's early release. He mentioned photos of Wu Zhenfeng with armed militants abroad, which, while not evidence, warranted suspicion.

Chen Yu feared Wu Zhenfeng might flee the country, severing their valuable leads. Lin Dezan dismissed Chen Yu's concerns about Wu Zhenfeng's whereabouts. Chen Yu then attempted to enlist Bowen's help in tracking Wu Zhenfeng, but Bowen, citing disciplinary rules, refused. Separately, Wang Yikun confessed to Hao Dong that Hao Dong had saved his life after he committed murder abroad, earning his unwavering loyalty.

He recounted their return to Yunhe three years prior to avenge Hao Dong’s father, taking on all the dirty work without complaint. He emphasized that half his life belonged to Hao Dong, and the other half to Wan Mengmeng. Their conversation was interrupted by Wan Heda, who stormed in, furiously demanding to know Wan Mengmeng's whereabouts and striking Wang Yikun. Hao Dong intervened, asserting he would take Wan Mengmeng with him.

Wan Heda vehemently opposed his daughter fleeing with a drug dealer, but Hao Dong argued that Mengmeng had chosen to go with Wang Yikun for a "new life," suggesting they were all "family." Wan Heda rejected this notion, reminding Hao Dong that "this path" was his, just as it had been when Hao Dong's father was alive, implying no one could operate without his consent. Hao Dong advised Wan Heda not to rush, especially concerning Mengmeng.

Wan Heda left, expecting a solution from Hao Dong. A subsequent conversation among individuals involved in the drug trade revealed concerns about stalled operations and the need to re-engage with Wan Heda, particularly since Hao Dong had seemingly betrayed them. Determined to find Wu Zhenfeng, Chen Yu went to a police station and asked Xiaoguang to check surveillance footage.

Xiaoguang, busy with other cases and aware that Chen Yu’s team had already inquired about Wan Mengmeng, refused, accusing Chen Yu of risking another mistake. Fortunately, Station Chief Wang overheard and called Xiaoguang away on a pretext. Chen Yu seized the opportunity to quickly check the open computer, successfully locating Wu Zhenfeng. Chen Yu tracked Wu Zhenfeng from the cemetery, where Wu Zhenfeng had visited Gui Shou's grave.

There, Wu Zhenfeng had a conversation with his loyal subordinate, Ahui, who expressed his unwavering devotion since meeting "Gui Ge," even offering to die for Wu Zhenfeng. Wu Zhenfeng countered, advising him that his life belonged only to himself and urged him to find a legitimate job to care for his family.

Ahui, citing his lack of education, prison record, and rehab history, insisted he could only follow Wu Zhenfeng to "achieve great things," reminding him of his past ambition to become a "drug king" from Mengka. Wu Zhenfeng then received a call from Erliang, instructing him to go to Wan Heda's house. Chen Yu followed him there. At Wan Heda's residence, Wu Zhenfeng confronted him about not answering Erliang's calls, emphasizing that Erliang had sent him out of respect.

Wan Heda defiantly asserted his business was separate from Mengka and K, ordering Wu Zhenfeng to leave. Shortly after, Yang Yi and Lan Anran arrived, prompting Wan Heda to hastily conceal Wu Zhenfeng. The officers introduced themselves as from the Yunhe Anti-Narcotics Division, explaining they were investigating Wan Mengmeng in connection with a drug-related death at Yun Dian Disco and suspected drug transactions.

Wan Heda denied Mengmeng’s involvement, claiming she had left for a friend's gathering on the 17th and hadn't returned. He allowed them to search, showing them Mengmeng's room on the second floor, insisting she was not involved in anything illegal. After the police left, Chen Yu, who had been observing the house, contacted Yang Yi, who was nearby. Wu Zhenfeng re-emerged, pressuring Wan Heda to call Erliang again.

Wan Heda reluctantly called Erliang, angrily demanding that Wu Zhenfeng leave his house. Wu Zhenfeng then snatched the phone, informing Erliang that Wan Heda had tried to set them up, and now Wan Mengmeng was missing with the police actively searching for her. Erliang, concerned for Mengmeng, ordered Wu Zhenfeng, "No matter what, bring Wan Mengmeng back safely." This directive softened Wan Heda, who agreed to discuss further once his daughter was safe. Police investigations quickly progressed.

Technical department colleagues, reviewing extensive surveillance footage, identified Wan Mengmeng and Wang Yikun near Donghu on the night of the Yun Dian Disco incident. Subsequent footage was unavailable due to heavy rain and lack of cameras. Wang Yikun was identified as "Akun," Wan Mengmeng's boyfriend, who owned a boatyard in Yunhe. Lin Dezan immediately ordered a search of all hotels and rental properties around Donghu.

Soon, Liu Kaihua received urgent news: Wan Mengmeng had been spotted buying medicine at Kangxi Pharmacy in the Donghu district. Bowen swiftly identified Xingrong Hotel as the closest, confirming Wang Yikun had also been seen heading in that direction. Liu Kaihua dispatched his team, including Qiangzi and Lan Anran, to the location. Simultaneously, Wu Zhenfeng sent his subordinate, Ahui, to track Wang Yikun. At Xingrong Hotel, Wan Mengmeng was distraught, pleading with Wang Yikun to take her away.

She refused to take more drugs ("Xiaoma"), revealing she was pregnant and wanted to keep the baby. Wang Yikun tried to persuade her that her current condition made it impossible, but she insisted she could quit drugs. Wu Zhenfeng, having been tracked to the hotel by Ahui, then located the room by posing as a delivery person, requesting to bring medicine for "sister-in-law." He confronted Wang Yikun.

Wang Yikun attempted to deflect, stating their issues were personal and unrelated to Mengmeng. Wu Zhenfeng countered that if he could find them, the police would too, and urged Wang Yikun to send Mengmeng to Wan Heda, stating it was the safest place for both of them. He threatened to expose them to the police if Wang Yikun refused. Wang Yikun reluctantly agreed, and Wu Zhenfeng took Wan Mengmeng.

Outside, Chen Yu, who had been staking out the hotel, spotted Wu Zhenfeng leaving with Wan Mengmeng and immediately attempted to intercept them, but Wu Zhenfeng and Ahui escaped in their car. Lan Anran and Yang Yi arrived shortly after. Chen Yu angrily confronted them, blaming them for not maintaining surveillance on Wu Zhenfeng and allowing him to escape with Wan Mengmeng. Liu Kaihua called Lan Anran for an update, who reported that Wu Zhenfeng had "rescued" Wan Mengmeng.

Liu Kaihua then questioned Chen Yu's unauthorized presence and actions. Wan Mengmeng was brought home to her father, where she tearfully apologized, admitted her involvement with drugs, and confessed her pregnancy, still hoping to leave with Wang Yikun. Wan Heda immediately called Dr. Yu, instructing him to be cautious with medication due to her pregnancy.

Meanwhile, Chen Yu stormed into Lin Dezan's office, furiously recounting Wu Zhenfeng's actions and criticizing Lin Dezan for not heeding his earlier warnings, claiming that a timely intervention would have led to an arrest. Lin Dezan acknowledged Chen Yu's points but told him to go back. Chen Yu, his other duties on hold, requested to be allowed 24-hour surveillance on Wu Zhenfeng, confirming he knew Wu Zhenfeng's current residence.

Lin Dezan then sternly declared, "You are not allowed to touch this line involving Wu Zhenfeng." He immediately softened his tone, ordering Chen Yu to write a "deep and thorough self-criticism" and submit it to Liu Kaihua. Elsewhere, Hao Dong's subordinate informed him that Wu Zhenfeng had "rescued" Wan Mengmeng.

Hao Dong questioned if Wan Heda would now cooperate with Mengka, expressing disbelief that Wan Heda would risk his daughter's life to betray him, and stated his intention to confront Wan Heda. Erliang contacted Wu Zhenfeng, asking if he still wanted to eliminate Hao Dong. Erliang then revealed that Hao Dong's group planned to ship goods from Savage Mountain to Shengjiang in a week, using "big yellow capsules." Erliang informed Wu Zhenfeng that his current mission was complete and he could return.

Episode 20 Recap

After Wan Mengmeng returned to her father's home and admitted her pregnancy, Dr. Yu administered a sedative to her, allowing her to rest. Wan Heda, however, insisted that the child she was carrying could not be kept and asked Dr. Yu to perform an abortion, a request she flatly refused, stating she was not an obstetrician. Shortly after, Wu Zhenfeng demanded that Wan Heda call Erliang. Wan Heda fiercely refused, asserting his past influence and dismissing Wu Zhenfeng's demands.

Just then, a knock sounded at the door. Wan Heda quickly hid Wu Zhenfeng before opening it to reveal Hao Dong, who immediately asked if Wu Zhenfeng was present. Wan Heda avoided the question, instead asking how Hao Dong had found him. Hao Dong explained he had come to propose a solution: for Wan Mengmeng and Wang Yikun to leave together. He offered to give Wang Yikun a substantial sum of money so they would never return.

Hao Dong noted that with a child on the way, Wan Heda should understand Wan Mengmeng and Wang Yikun's firm decision. Hao Dong warned Wan Heda that if he didn't calm down, he might not even remain a father. He outlined his plan: in a week, Wang Yikun would transport a batch of large yellow capsules exiting Yunhe via a small road, with Wan Mengmeng accompanying him.

From Shengjiang, they would go to Hong Kong and then abroad, to start anew. Wan Heda questioned if this meant Wan Mengmeng would be involved in drug trafficking, but Hao Dong argued it was the safest option, implying that if he could find them, the police could too. Wan Heda, while acknowledging the route, asked for time to spend with his daughter one last time.

After Hao Dong departed, Wan Heda immediately contacted Erliang, asking if he still intended to eliminate Hao Dong. Erliang first asked to speak with Wu Zhenfeng, telling him that his mission was complete and he could return. Once Wu Zhenfeng left, Wan Heda informed Erliang that Wang Yikun and Wan Mengmeng were scheduled to transport large yellow capsules from Wildman Mountain to Shengjiang in a week.

He instructed Erliang to ensure his daughter's safety and take her to Mengka by any means necessary, promising to meet her there after he finished his own affairs. Wan Heda also revealed his intention to fake a plane trip to Shengjiang to mislead Hao Dong, planning to cross the border and meet Erliang in Walin Town as soon as Erliang made his move. Erliang agreed to the arrangement.

Meanwhile, police intelligence revealed that Wang Yikun had gone missing after the previous incident at He Jiashu's boxing ring. His connection to Wan Mengmeng was solidified, leading to suspicions that he had been supplying her with drugs and was directly linked to the "K" organization. They also observed various vehicles entering the shipyard, indicating preparations for a large-scale drug transport. Additionally, surveillance footage showed Wu Zhenfeng and Wan Mengmeng at a property recently purchased by Wan Heda.

Police were tracking Wu Zhenfeng, and Chen Yu was independently tailing him. Liu Kaihua had previously called Chen Yu, ordering him to return after he followed Wu Zhenfeng across the border, but Chen Yu had defied this order. Separately, Erliang contacted Wu Zhenfeng, instructing him to meet a contact named "Bone" at Wajia Hotel in Walin Town immediately.

He emphasized that this was a test of Wu Zhenfeng's trustworthiness and that Bone would provide the specific details, cautioning Wu Zhenfeng not to arouse suspicion. Wu Zhenfeng then reported to Lin Dezan, informing him that Hao Dong planned for Wang Yikun to transport goods the next day, and Wan Mengmeng would accompany him.

He noted that Erliang still did not fully trust him, as he had not disclosed specific details, only that they would take a small road to the neighboring county and then get on the highway. Wu Zhenfeng also informed Lin Dezan about Erliang's instruction for him to go to Walin Town. Lin Dezan advised Wu Zhenfeng to maintain contact and prioritize his safety.

Lin Dezan then spoke to Chen Yu, expressing concern about him operating alone and urging him to trust more people within the police force. Chen Yu replied that Lin Dezan was the only person he could trust. Lin Dezan then ordered Chen Yu to continue surveillance on Wu Zhenfeng for evidence but strictly forbade him from revealing his presence, reminding him that he currently lacked law enforcement authority for an overt operation.

In Walin Town, Wu Zhenfeng met Bone as instructed. Bone did not reveal the specifics of Wu Zhenfeng's task, only telling him to wait until the following day for further instructions. Jiang Lei arranged a car for Wan Mengmeng, but Wang Yikun did not accompany her, making her uneasy. Police monitoring soon detected Wan Mengmeng leaving Wan Heda's suburban villa and heading to the Kuntai Shipyard.

Subsequently, Bone picked up Wu Zhenfeng in a red truck, which was covered with a dark green tarp. Bone confiscated Wu Zhenfeng's personal phone and provided him with a temporary one, instructing him to drive the truck to Guangzhou without stopping, getting out, or communicating with anyone. Bone made it clear that a hidden camera inside the truck would monitor him constantly, and he was to call Bone from the temporary phone upon arrival.

Meanwhile, police noted that the vehicles which had entered the shipyard had left in different directions, making it impossible to determine which vehicle was carrying the drugs. Hao Dong provided Wang Yikun with a sum of money, despite Wang Yikun's initial refusal, telling him it was for Wan Mengmeng and the child. Wang Yikun, expressing gratitude for Hao Dong saving his life, offered to return whenever needed.

However, Hao Dong told him not to come back and to live a good life with Wan Mengmeng. He then instructed Wang Yikun to follow Wan Mengmeng's vehicle at a distance to avoid attracting police attention. Lin Dezan, having lost contact with Wu Zhenfeng after his last call, consulted Chen Liwen, concerned whether Wu Zhenfeng's truck contained drugs or if it was a test orchestrated by the traffickers. Chen Liwen urged patience, believing Wu Zhenfeng would contact them if possible.

He emphasized the importance of securing Wang Yikun and the drugs to dismantle the "K" organization's network, while also noting the uncertainty of whether Mengka or "K" was providing cover for the operation. He ordered continued surveillance on Wan Mengmeng and the swift apprehension of Wang Yikun. Lan Anran reported spotting a tractor consistently following Wan Mengmeng's car, which she later confirmed to be driven by Wang Yikun.

Meanwhile, Chen Yu, still tailing Wu Zhenfeng, arrived at the Yunhe West Expressway toll station and urgently requested permission to intercept and search Wu Zhenfeng's truck, fearing it would be too late once they left Yunhe. However, Lin Dezan commanded him to allow Wu Zhenfeng's vehicle to pass and to return immediately. Chen Yu, against orders, vehemently protested before disobeying and hanging up.

Lin Dezan, having confirmed Wang Yikun's location and likely route through Wildman Mountain, dispatched Liu Kaihua and other police units to the area to set up an interception. He coordinated a strategy to block the Wildman Mountain exit, where Wang Yikun's tractor was expected to emerge. In Wildman Mountain, Erliang and his associates, having monitored the road, confirmed the approach of Wan Mengmeng's car followed by Wang Yikun's tractor.

They planned to let Wan Mengmeng's car pass, then intercept Wang Yikun's vehicle. As Wang Yikun's tractor was ambushed, Wan Mengmeng, who had been trying to communicate with Wang Yikun, realized something was wrong when the call disconnected and quickly turned her vehicle back. Lan Anran, following closely, activated her siren and rushed towards the scene. Upon hearing the sirens, Erliang and his team hastily fled the area.

Simultaneously, Jiang Lei, who had been monitoring from the shadows, contacted Hao Dong to report the police presence and the interception of the goods. In the chaos, Wan Mengmeng and Wang Yikun tried to escape but inadvertently fell down a steep slope, resulting in Wan Mengmeng's miscarriage. Police units quickly secured the scene, requesting an ambulance for the injured suspects. Later, Chen Yu forced Wu Zhenfeng's truck to stop by orchestrating a fabricated traffic accident on the Nanyun Expressway.

Wu Zhenfeng promptly reported the "accident" to the emergency services, providing the license plate numbers of both vehicles involved. Erliang, enraged by the police intervention and Wan Mengmeng's capture, furiously called Wan Heda, accusing him of betraying their plan. Wan Heda, frantic and distraught, vehemently denied the accusation, asserting he would never endanger his own daughter. Meanwhile, police recovered numerous large yellow capsules from Wang Yikun's intercepted vehicle.

Hao Dong then met with Wan Heda, initiating a discussion about who, between Wang Yikun (who was apprehended) and Wan Mengmeng (who had regained consciousness), was more likely to confess to the police. Wan Heda, deeply worried, expressed his fear that Wan Mengmeng, now awake and facing police interrogation, would not be able to withstand the pressure.

Episode 21 Recap

After a police raid on their operation, Hao Dong, enraged by the escape of his subordinate Erliang, furiously carved wood. Jiang Lei, witnessing Hao Dong's near-breakdown, quickly unplugged the power saw to calm him. Hao Dong immediately suspected Wan Heda, who burst in, accusing Hao Dong of placing drugs in his daughter Wan Mengmeng’s car, potentially implicating her. Hao Dong retaliated, accusing Wan Heda of leaking the accurate drug route to Mengka.

Their heated argument escalated, with Wan Heda stating that Hao Dong had never trusted him in their three years of working together, and that their current predicament with Mengka was entirely Hao Dong's fault, warning that if things continued this way, they would all die. Meanwhile, at the hospital, Wan Mengmeng was undergoing emergency surgery due to severe hemorrhaging and required an abortion, necessitating a parent's signature.

Lan Anran swiftly contacted Zhou Bowen to obtain Wan Heda's contact information, then informed Wan Heda that his daughter was critically ill at Yunhe County First People's Hospital and needed his immediate presence to sign documents. Upon hearing the news, Wan Heda glanced at Hao Dong. Separately, Chen Yu stopped Wu Zhenfeng's vehicle for inspection, meticulously dismantling it.

Wu Zhenfeng angrily challenged Chen Yu, questioning his suspicions about drug trafficking and criticizing his constant interference, stating that Chen Yu was merely using him for revenge. Wu Zhenfeng accused Chen Yu of being impulsive and untrusting, suggesting his actions might lead to Wu Zhenfeng's death. Despite being silenced by the accusations, Chen Yu proceeded to arrest Wu Zhenfeng.

Later, during a police briefing, it was confirmed that the "Big Yellow Capsules" found at Yeren Shan matched those from the Weixiang Restaurant and the drugs from Li Zhengqiang's hijacked warehouse, linking them to Mengka. It was also revealed that a man named Manzi had instructed Wang Yikun's subordinate to deliberately plant drugs in Chen Yu's room to frame him, thereby clearing Chen Yu of any suspicion.

Chen Yu, upon returning to the office, demanded to know why Lin Dezan had not informed him about Wang Yikun's arrest, while Lin Dezan admonished Chen Yu for not answering his calls. Just then, Chen Yu received a call confirming no drugs were found in Wu Zhenfeng's vehicle, prompting Lin Dezan to order Wu Zhenfeng's immediate release. Lin Dezan then reinstated Chen Yu to active duty and assigned him to interrogate Wang Yikun.

Back with the syndicates, Hao Dong, having learned that Wan Mengmeng had awakened and Wang Yikun was in custody, concluded that Wan Mengmeng was now their biggest liability. He suggested that she would break under police interrogation and recommended eliminating her, arguing it would be a mercy given her drug addiction would never be overcome.

Wan Heda, heartbroken, lashed out at Hao Dong, but Hao Dong stood firm, insisting that Wan Mengmeng couldn't withstand police pressure and would expose them all, leading to their collective downfall. Wan Heda wept silently, tormented by the grim proposal. During Wang Yikun's interrogation, Lan Anran confronted him for involving the pregnant Wan Mengmeng in drug transportation.

Wang Yikun appeared genuinely shocked by the news of her pregnancy, denying any knowledge of drugs in her car and vehemently claiming sole responsibility for the trafficking. Lan Anran then delivered the devastating news that Wan Mengmeng had almost died and lost her baby. Wang Yikun, distraught, pleaded to see Wan Mengmeng, but Chen Yu flatly denied his request.

Later, in another interrogation room, Wang Yikun, with Wu Zhenfeng silently observing, tried to bribe Chen Yu, believing him to be Wu Zhenfeng's "protective umbrella" and an insider for Mengka. He offered Chen Yu double the amount Mengka would pay, asserting that Wu Zhenfeng must have used his name. Chen Yu, observing Wu Zhenfeng, pondered his true motivations, suspecting them to go beyond mere self-preservation.

Meanwhile, Wan Heda arrived at the hospital and, after being initially refused entry by the police due to Wan Mengmeng's involvement in drug trafficking, forced his way into her ward. He knelt by her bedside, holding her hand. Moments later, Jiang Lei, disguised as a medical staff member, entered the room, intending to inject a fatal dose of heroin into Wan Mengmeng's IV drip. Wan Heda, noticing Jiang Lei's suspicious actions, gripped his hand, stopping him.

During their struggle, the syringe fell and shattered on the floor. Aware that police reinforcements were closing in, Jiang Lei quickly fled down the stairs. Just as Jiang Lei exited the stairwell, he briefly encountered Liu Kaihua. Liu Kaihua, observing Jiang Lei's fleeing figure, immediately recognized his distinct shoes and later confirmed his identity as the disguised attacker through hospital surveillance footage.

After the failed attempt on Wan Mengmeng's life, Wan Heda confessed to Hao Dong that he couldn't bring himself to kill his own daughter. Hao Dong declared his intention to leave for Hong Kong that night. However, Wan Heda warned him that flying was unsafe due to Wang Yikun's arrest and potential confessions. He proposed that Hao Dong accompany him to Mengka, suggesting it was their only safe retreat.

Hao Dong, feeling betrayed and like a hostage, accused Wan Heda of sacrificing both Wang Yikun and now him. Wan Heda, without further explanation, simply stated he would be crossing the border that night via Walin Town to reach Hong Kong and that Hao Dong could contact him if he wished to join. Jiang Lei then advised Hao Dong that going with Wan Heda was the safer option, given their predicament.

Hao Dong, despite his deep distrust of Wan Heda, reluctantly considered it as his only viable choice. Before departing, Hao Dong entrusted all his remaining funds to Doctor Yu, who had assisted him with drug research. He specified that the money was capital for a new beginning if he returned, or for revenge if he did not survive.

Back at his home, Jiang Lei was confronted by Liu Kaihua, who slapped him and interrogated him about his actions at the hospital. Jiang Lei, though defiant, denied committing murder, insisting he had only been "helping to look."

Episode 22 Recap

Chen Yu continued his investigation into Wan Heda, discovering a pattern where Wan Heda would go to Shengjiang whenever the tea factory was burned or drugs were trafficked from Wildman Mountain. Less than a week after the tea factory fire, a significant amount of "Magu" and "Big Yellow Capsules" appeared in Hong Kong, causing market prices to plummet.

This indicated that "K" had likely used the tea factory fire to conceal a drug shipment, which was first transported to Shengjiang, then picked up by Wan Heda, and finally shipped to Hong Kong via Wanlutong Company's vessels. Shengjiang, Chen Yu concluded, was a critical transit point for Wan Heda's drug operations. He also linked this to the incident involving Wu Gang, noting that Wang Yikun, the driver on the day of Wu Gang's accident, was also in Shengjiang.

Chen Yu further observed that a large portion of Wan Heda's business ledgers over the past decade showed shipments destined for Shengjiang. He instructed his colleague, Bowen, to compile information on all companies and legal persons associated with Wanlutong Company that shipped to Shengjiang. Meanwhile, Liu Kaihua escorted Wan Mengmeng to a drug rehabilitation center.

He spoke with Director Zhao, stressing the importance of her recovery for the investigation and ensuring a special medical team from Yunhe County First People's Hospital, including experienced medical staff and Dr. Ding, was assigned to her. Secrecy regarding her presence was paramount. During this time, Dr. Yu, a medical professional at the center, received an urgent call from Hao Dong, who demanded he kill Wan Mengmeng.

Dr. Yu adamantly refused, reminding Hao Dong that his role was drug manufacturing, not murder. Hao Dong then threatened Dr. Yu, revealing that Wan Mengmeng knew him and that his private connections with Wan Heda could expose him if she spoke. Hao Dong desperately pleaded, stating his own freedom depended on Wan Mengmeng's death. As Wan Heda and Hao Dong were fleeing, Wan Heda urged a distracted Hao Dong, who was preoccupied on his phone, to quicken their pace.

They avoided main roads, instead navigating through dense thickets and ditches, seeking a secluded path. Chen Yu continued to scrutinize transport orders, noting that eight companies, including Guangmangshan Tea Factory, had sent goods to Shengjiang through Wan Heda's company. He pointed out that the tea factory's specific orders to Shengjiang were three years old, with no such shipments in the last three years.

Yang Yi suggested presenting these findings to Director Lin Dezan, given that the tea factory belonged to Yang Xingquan, Yang Ling's father and an old acquaintance of Director Lin. However, Chen Yu countered that he had already provided Director Lin with Wan Heda's company ledgers, which should have revealed problems if carefully reviewed. Chen Yu voiced suspicions regarding Director Lin's inaction on Jiang Lei, despite his repeated reports about him, and Director Lin's ambiguous stance on Wu Zhenfeng.

Chen Yu firmly insisted on a thorough investigation of the tea factory's accounts to uncover any suspicious companies, emphasizing that too many inconsistencies existed regarding Director Lin, Wan Heda, Liu Kaihua, Wu Zhenfeng, and Yang Xingquan. Liu Kaihua, examining a mobile phone found in Jiang Lei's room, discovered a chilling recording. In it, Jiang Lei was heard discussing a mysterious boss known as "Ghost Hand" and details of a drug trafficking operation set for midnight at Guangmangshan Tea Factory.

The recording also captured Jiang Lei's terrified admission that he feared being killed by his associates if caught. This profoundly disturbed Liu Kaihua. Furthermore, the video on the phone contained a significant portion showing an irrelevant angle, intensifying Liu Kaihua's suspicion that Jiang Lei was deceiving him. Liu Kaihua confronted Jiang Lei about his visit to Yunhe Hospital and his connections to Wang Yikun and "K."

Despite Jiang Lei's denials and attempts to deflect, Liu Kaihua became enraged, realizing Jiang Lei had manipulated him, just as Chen Yu had previously suggested. Liu Kaihua attempted to take Jiang Lei to the Public Security Bureau. Jiang Lei, kneeling and distraught, desperately pleaded with his uncle, Liu Kaihua, to release him, crying that going to the police would mean his death. He threatened to expose everything he knew if forced to go.

Burdened by this discovery, Liu Kaihua paced heavily outside the police station, observing Gong Wei in the guard room. He confessed to Gong Wei that he now understood the profound distress Chen Yu must have felt when he first suspected Wu Zhenfeng of drug involvement, and how deeply he must have wished it was all a misconception. Just then, Director Lin Dezan, leaving for the day, noticed Liu Kaihua and Gong Wei.

He entered the guard room and shared crucial news: the fingerprints on the gun that killed "Du San" years ago had been definitively matched to Wang Yikun by forensic technicians. This confirmed that the "K" group had murdered "Du San" to silence him. Director Lin expressed relief that this long-standing mystery was finally resolved and sincerely apologized to both Gong Wei and Liu Kaihua for the past.

Director Lin then reflected on the past, recalling how, after his transfer from the anti-drug brigade and Gong Wei's injury, Liu Kaihua was the unanimous choice for captain, a decision Director Lin still stood by. Liu Kaihua asked Director Lin what he would do if he ever left the police force, to which Director Lin mused about living a quiet life like Yang Xingquan, tending a tea garden with his wife and daughter.

When asked in turn, Liu Kaihua expressed his profound despair, revealing that he had always envisioned policing as his lifelong career, a uniform he could never take off, even if it meant forgoing a personal life. Director Lin, understanding Liu Kaihua's sorrow, reflected on the difficult choices officers face, emphasizing that the greatest challenge often lies not in physical danger or loss, but in confronting temptation and remaining true to one's core values.

This conversation deepened Liu Kaihua's internal anguish, as he grappled with the burden of betraying the trust placed in him and the prospect of being forced to abandon his identity as an officer. Yang Yi and Chen Yu debated who should approach Yang Ling to request access to the tea factory's accounts. After a round of rock-paper-scissors, Chen Yu, who lost, reluctantly went to Yang Ling's apartment.

He awkwardly tried to leave to buy snacks, but Yang Ling, noticing their behavior, prompted them to reveal their purpose. Chen Yu explained that they were investigating a case, and among the companies closely linked to the main subject of their investigation, was her father Yang Xingquan's Guangmangshan Tea Factory.

He clarified that they fully trusted her father's tea factory but needed to compare its financial records with those of other companies to identify discrepancies or suspicious activities that could lead to crucial clues. Yang Ling, acknowledging their close relationship, readily agreed to speak with her father about providing access to the tea factory's ledgers. Wan Heda, now on the run with Hao Dong, called Erliang from Walin Town, requesting a meeting.

Wan Heda also questioned how the police knew about their operations, noting Wan Mengmeng and Ah Kun were under surveillance. He assured Erliang that he and Hao Dong had taken an old, unfrequented route to Walin Town, guaranteeing they weren't followed. Erliang, however, was hesitant, worrying that bringing Wan Heda and Hao Dong in would expose them to the police.

Qiong Jie advised Erliang to use this opportunity to win Wan Heda over completely and isolate Hao Dong, seeing it as a business advantage. Wu Zhenfeng then volunteered to go to Walin Town to scout the situation, promising to bring them back if it was safe and to alert Erliang if police were present, adding he could manage even if caught. Erliang provided Wu Zhenfeng with a separate phone for direct contact and Wan Heda's number.

Leveraging this mission, Wu Zhenfeng discreetly took a photo of Erliang and Qiong Jie together and immediately sent it to Director Lin Dezan. Under the pretense of checking on Wan Mengmeng and discussing medication, Dr. Yu swapped the prescribed medicine that had been sent by Dr. Ding with another substance. He then anxiously waited, timing the effects of the injected drug. After ten minutes, Wan Mengmeng began to exhibit severe symptoms, struggling for breath and showing signs of distress.

As Nurse Chen Ying rushed to find Dr. Yu, he suddenly appeared, already holding an antidote. He quickly administered the counter-agent to Wan Mengmeng, initiating her recovery. News of the incident quickly reached Director Lin Dezan, who was enraged that someone dared to make an attempt on Wan Mengmeng's life within the secure confines of the rehabilitation center, especially with a special medical team in place. He immediately ordered a thorough investigation.

In Walin Town, Hao Dong and Wan Heda found refuge in a small hotel, unaware that Wu Zhenfeng was across the street, discreetly monitoring their movements. Hao Dong, increasingly anxious about Wan Mengmeng, called Dr. Yu. Dr. Yu truthfully reported that he couldn't bring himself to kill her, confirming the attempt had failed and Wan Mengmeng had been rushed to the hospital for emergency care, unlikely to return to the rehabilitation center.

Overcome with despair, Hao Dong lamented that he could never "go back." Wan Heda, noticing Hao Dong's distress, pressed him for details about Wan Mengmeng, emphasizing that Hao Dong's survival depended on hers. Hao Dong, understanding his fate was intertwined with Wan Heda's, declared that they were "grasshoppers on the same rope" and that neither could survive alone, especially if Mengka turned on them. Suddenly, local police arrived at their door, demanding identification.

As the situation grew tense, a noise from outside drew the officers' attention, creating an unexpected opportunity for Wan Heda and Hao Dong to slip away and escape. Following the assassination attempt on Wan Mengmeng, investigators found that her critical condition was due to an overdose of Diazepam, with dangerously high concentrations detected in the syringe used.

During the investigation, it was confirmed that the doctor involved was Yu Miao, and Nurse Chen Ying was responsible for injecting the medication, which had been sent directly from the Yunhe County First People's Hospital's psychiatry department. Nurse Chen Ying, while claiming to have followed protocols, admitted that Yu Miao appeared immediately after the incident, even before she could notify him, raising significant suspicion among the police.

Meanwhile, in the interrogation room, Chen Yu informed Wang Yikun that Wan Mengmeng had survived the poisoning but was still unconscious. He then revealed that someone had attempted to assassinate her again in the hospital, clearly aiming to silence her. Chen Yu pressed Wang Yikun to disclose who was behind these attempts to eliminate Wan Mengmeng.

Episode 23 Recap

Wu Zhenfeng arranged for police to be distracted, then located Hao Dong and Wan Heda, and brutally beat Hao Dong. He took a clear photograph of Hao Dong and sent it to Lin Dezan. Police quickly verified Hao Dong's true identity as Li Xiandong, Li Linfan's son, who had returned to Yunhe three years prior with Wang Yikun and opened a wood carving factory under the alias Hao Dong.

Concurrently, police identified Erliang as Yan Meng and Qiong Jie as Li Yiqiong, both core members of Mengka. Meanwhile, Chen Yu interrogated Dr. Yu about Wan Mengmeng's overdose. Dr. Yu claimed she had been secretly treating Wan Mengmeng for nearly two years at Wan Heda's request, as he did not wish to send his daughter to rehab. She then pleaded with Chen Yu to keep this confidential to protect her medical license.

However, Chen Yu's investigation revealed that the excessive Diazepam dosage used on Wan Mengmeng originated from outside the rehabilitation center. Due to the complex situation in Yunhe, Wan Mengmeng was approved for transfer to Kundu Rehab Center for secure treatment. Chen Yu informed Wang Yikun about the attempted assassination on Wan Mengmeng in the hospital, and revealed that there had been a second attempt. He pressed Wang Yikun to reveal the mastermind to save her.

Wang Yikun reacted angrily, recalling his belief that Wan Mengmeng was a burden and questioning how long she could be hidden, then blamed the police for their inability to protect her. Hao Dong and Wan Heda were subsequently brought to Erliang. Erliang immediately began to taunt Hao Dong, reminding him of past misdeeds involving a person named "Bone," Wu Zhenfeng, and the tea factory.

Erliang also blamed Wang Yikun for trying to kill him three years prior but instead killing Du San, a fact Hao Dong admitted. Erliang's men seized Hao Dong and attempted to bury him alive. Wan Heda frantically pleaded with Erliang to stop, invoking their decades-long friendship and even mentioning Erliang's daughter. When his pleas failed, Wan Heda broke free and threatened to be buried alongside Hao Dong if Erliang proceeded.

At this point, Qiong Jie intervened, offering Wan Heda a chance to be "family" if he cooperated, arguing that Hao Dong was already cornered and not worth protecting. However, Wan Heda stood firm, declaring that there would be no discussions unless Hao Dong was released. Inside Erliang's compound, a tense confrontation unfolded.

Erliang challenged Wu Zhenfeng, suggesting he should have killed him three years prior, and questioning Wu Zhenfeng's actual role in Yunhe, wondering if he was Mengka's protector or an informant. Wu Zhenfeng asserted his commitment to ending the long-standing feud between Mengka and K. Hao Dong then directly accused Qiong Jie of orchestrating his father Li Linfan's death three years ago. Qiong Jie admitted to setting up Li Linfan's death, stating he had broken their rules by raising prices.

She revealed that Wan Heda had recruited Wu Gang, expecting him to tip off the police about Li Linfan's drug deliveries, but the plan went awry when Li Linfan unexpectedly drove the vehicle himself and was killed by the police. Wan Heda, filled with remorse for bringing Hao Dong there, continued to insist that Hao Dong was still "Dong Ge" to Erliang and Qiong Jie.

He reminded them that the ultimate motive for Li Linfan's death was revenge for Yu Zong's wife, whom Li Linfan had killed. Hao Dong then confronted Wu Zhenfeng, asking about his relationship with Chen Yu. Wu Zhenfeng claimed Chen Yu was his brother and his "protector" in Yunhe. Disbelieving, Hao Dong urged Qiong Jie to investigate Wu Zhenfeng, hinting that if he was unlucky today, they might be next, drawing a parallel between father and son.

Qiong Jie, however, dismissed his concerns as Mengka's internal matters. During his interrogation, Wang Yikun, confronted with Hao Dong's true identity as Li Xiandong (Li Linfan's son) which police had already uncovered, insisted he was the true "Dong Ge" and Li Linfan's adopted son, to whom the drug network "K" was entrusted. Wang Yikun confessed that Li Xiandong had been sent overseas twenty years ago by Li Linfan.

This was done after another drug dealer in Yunhe stole Li Linfan's business, leading Li Linfan to retaliate by killing the rival's wife. Li Xiandong was then sent abroad to protect him from potential future revenge. Wang Yikun further claimed that Li Xiandong (Hao Dong) returned to China three years ago only after Wang Yikun himself had killed Wu Gang to avenge his adopted father, Li Linfan.

Wang Yikun insisted that all actions related to taking over the drug network "K" and the murder of Wu Gang were his sole responsibility, completely unrelated to Li Xiandong. He claimed he did not know the identity of the rival drug dealer from two decades ago. After interrogating Wang Yikun, Chen Yu was left deeply disturbed.

Reflecting on Wang Yikun's words and the clear photo of Hao Dong that had been obtained, he began to suspect that Wu Zhenfeng was the police informant. Meanwhile, Lin Dezan, recalling his past conversation with Yang Xingquan, felt a growing unease. Yang Xingquan had lamented that he was ruined because of Lin Dezan, asking him to bury his wife and care for Yang Ling, and accusing Lin Dezan of owing him.

Yang Xingquan also implied that the tea factory fire was a retaliation or warning to Lin Dezan, possibly due to his inquiries about Wu Zhenfeng in Mengka. Haunted by these thoughts and Wang Yikun's confession, Lin Dezan contacted Chen Liwen, requesting an investigation into Yang Xingquan's ten years abroad, connecting it to Yang Ling's mother's death two decades prior. Yang Yi visited Yang Ling and asked for childhood photos, fabricating a story about an "organizational activity" needing them.

While searching, he found a photo of a young Yang Ling with "Aunt Qiong," whom Yang Ling identified as someone who used to visit her. Yang Yi immediately took the photo, without explaining his true reason, leaving Yang Ling confused. Yang Yi later brought this photo to Chen Yu.

Chen Yu speculated that Wu Zhenfeng held a low position within Mengka, being used for dangerous cover-up operations, and that Mengka did not trust him or care about his life, which was why Wu Zhenfeng often used Chen Yu's name as a shield. Lan Anran countered that Wu Zhenfeng's past actions, such as risking his life for evidence at Arat's boxing ring and saving "Ghost Hand" during the tea factory fire, suggested he was still redeemable.

Investigations into financial transactions also revealed that Li Yiqiong (Qiong Jie) had frequent dealings with an overseas account three years prior, which paused and then resumed with a payment to Li Yiqiong shortly before the tea factory fire, subsequently transferred to Guangmangshan Tea Factory. Liu Kaihua returned home to find Jiang Lei had ordered his favorite takeout.

Liu Kaihua reiterated his intention for Jiang Lei to come to the police station, promising to help him apply for a reduced sentence through cooperation. However, Jiang Lei was terrified, believing he would be killed if he went to prison. Liu Kaihua gave him a choice: surrender himself or be arrested. Jiang Lei desperately pleaded for his uncle to release him. Unyielding, Liu Kaihua handed him the phone, instructing him to call and surrender.

Jiang Lei, crying, called his mother instead. His mother called Liu Kaihua, accusing him of failing to properly supervise Jiang Lei, contrasting it with Liu Kaihua's own upbringing. She then requested two months' time, stating she would take Jiang Lei away once she obtained her green card. Liu Kaihua, speechless, retreated to his bedroom.

While investigating the accounts of Wan Heda's company, Wanlutong, Chen Yu discovered that it had a business connection with Guangmangshan Tea Factory three years prior, which then abruptly ceased. Upon hearing this information, Lin Dezan was visibly shaken.

Episode 24 Recap

Yang Ling returned with copied bills from the tea factory for Chen Yu and Yang Yi. She sensed Chen Yu's apprehension and confirmed she had not informed Yang Xingquan about the discovery. Meanwhile, Liu Kaihua wrestled with a phone call from his sister, who reminded him of how he had cared for her and lamented his failure to manage Jiang Lei. She questioned why he had arrested Jiang Lei, emphasizing that they were family and should just be educated.

Overwhelmed by the conflict between his duty and familial ties, Liu Kaihua swept his numerous awards onto the floor, collapsing into tears. Jiang Lei then quietly approached and watched him. Chen Yu, Lan Anran, and Yang Yi meticulously cross-referenced the data, confirming that all the numbers matched. They grappled with the implications, unsure if Lin Dezan was aware of the situation and fearing he might continue to indulge his old friend, Yang Xingquan, even if informed.

The trio was troubled by Lin Dezan's consistent suppression of the investigation into Jiang Lei and his refusal to let Chen Yu pursue Wu Zhenfeng, leaving them uncertain who they could trust in Yunhe. Chen Yu even considered the unsettling possibility that everything was part of a larger, intricate setup, as too many details seemed inexplicable, and he found himself reluctant to delve deeper into the thought. Later, Yang Ling sat listening to music in the downstairs corridor.

When Chen Yu approached, she intuitively grasped the gravity of the situation but wanted to hear it directly from him. Chen Yu candidly shared his findings, but Yang Ling found it hard to believe, asserting that Yang Xingquan's profound hatred for drugs made such involvement impossible. Chen Yu urged her to keep the secret, especially from her father, acknowledging its difficulty.

Yang Ling then directly asked if Chen Yu suspected her, to which he responded by asking for her own feelings. Their conversation was interrupted by a customer needing to pay. At the police station, Chen Liwen formally announced the successful resolution of the "Yellow Capsule Case." He detailed the capture of key K organization members, including Wang Yikun, and the recovery of nearly all the illicit capsules.

The Yunhe County Anti-Drug Detachment was awarded a collective third-class merit for their thorough deployment. While celebrating the achievement, Chen Liwen cautioned that the K organization had not been completely dismantled and the anti-drug situation in Yunhe remained severe. Subsequently, new personnel assignments were announced: Lin Dezan was transferred to a vice-director position in the Drug Case Investigation Guidance Office of the Cangnan Provincial Public Security Department's Anti-Drug Detachment.

Liu Kaihua was assigned to three months of off-duty training, during which Liang Hao would temporarily lead the Anti-Drug Detachment, a suggestion made by Lin Dezan himself. Finally, the special task force was officially dissolved, and all personnel were to return to their original units, except for Zhou Bowen who remained. After the meeting, Chen Yu sought out Lin Dezan, asking if the rumors of Liu Kaihua's promotion to deputy director were true.

Lin Dezan dismissed it as irrelevant to Chen Yu's concerns. Chen Yu then brought up his past reports about Jiang Lei, questioning whether Liu Kaihua had ever suspected Jiang Lei and shared those suspicions. Lin Dezan staunchly defended Liu Kaihua, citing their long history of fighting together and Liu's physical scars from drug traffickers. He added that police officers, like all people, have families, implying that personal ties could be a factor.

Chen Yu, undeterred, shifted his focus to Wan Heda, revealing that he had found financial ties between Wanlutong Company and Guangmangshan Tea Factory from three years prior, which later ceased. Lin Dezan showed visible surprise upon hearing "Guangmangshan Tea Factory." Chen Yu further noted he had also found financial dealings between Li Yiqiong and the tea factory, identifying Li Yiqiong as Yang Ling's "aunt from abroad." He then directly asked if Lin Dezan suspected Yang Xingquan of drug involvement.

Lin Dezan challenged Chen Yu's assumptions, explaining that Yang Xingquan could easily claim these transactions were legitimate tea trade. He emphasized that a proper investigation would need to trace back decades to build a complete evidence chain, a daunting task for which Chen Yu admitted he had no immediate solution. Lin Dezan encouraged him to take his time to think of a way. Chen Yu pressed Lin Dezan one last time, asking directly if Wu Zhenfeng was involved in drugs.

Lin Dezan countered that Chen Yu, given their history as neighbors and Chen Yu's relentless pursuit, even risking his life to stop Wu's car for evidence, should be the one to answer that. Chen Yu then confessed to feeling "very stupid," a feeling that began after his second interrogation of A-Kun and intensified after forcing Wu Zhenfeng's car to stop.

He linked this self-assessment to the resolution of the Yellow Capsule case, A-Shu's arrest, and the tea factory fire, describing all these events as moments where he acted foolishly. Lin Dezan reassured him, praising his meticulous reasoning and independent thinking as a police officer. He advised Chen Yu, despite his youth and hatred for evil, to always remember he is a disciplined police officer and to commit to his work with a sincere heart, never doubting his efforts.

Chen Yu, visibly emotional, then asked if Lin Dezan was truly leaving. Lin Dezan confirmed it was an organizational decision and thanked Chen Yu for his support. He concluded by subtly advising Chen Yu to "comfort Yang Ling." Meanwhile, the K organization members, including Wan Heda, discussed the police announcement about the Yellow Capsule case being solved and the special task force being disbanded. Wan Heda expressed hesitation, fearing it might be a police trap or a smokescreen.

The group looked to Wu Zhenfeng, urging him to contact Chen Yu for confirmation. Although reluctant, Wu Zhenfeng was eventually pressured by Qiong Jie and Erliang to make the call. Back at the police station, Chen Yu inquired about the reality of Lin Dezan's transfer, still harboring doubts, but his colleague confirmed the order had arrived. Wu Zhenfeng attempted to call Chen Yu, but Chen Yu either ignored or quickly hung up. Erliang pushed Wu Zhenfeng to call again.

On the second attempt, Wu Zhenfeng managed to quickly state he was safe in Mengka before Chen Yu cut the call short. This immediately led to suspicion among the group, with Wan Heda questioning Chen Yu's loyalty and wondering if he was Wu Zhenfeng's "protector." Wu Zhenfeng defended Chen Yu, explaining that as a police officer, Chen Yu might be in a meeting or around superiors, making it difficult to answer unknown numbers. Undeterred, Wu Zhenfeng called Chen Yu again.

This time, he specifically reminded Chen Yu that the day after tomorrow was his mother's death anniversary and asked him to place cigarettes he had left for her at her tombstone. He also requested Chen Yu's help in processing the car insurance claim for the incident where Chen Yu forced his car to stop, explaining his inability to return. As Wu Zhenfeng continued to speak, Chen Yu remained silent, appearing tense.

Chen Yu finally erupted, furiously scolding Wu Zhenfeng for jeopardizing his career, leading to his removal from the special task force and demotion to a local police officer. He angrily recounted all the risks he took to help Wu Zhenfeng—capturing his father's killer, dismantling A-Shu's boxing gym, and Wu Zhenfeng's mysterious ability to evade drug charges—demanding to know why he always ended up clean. He also blamed Wu Zhenfeng for the repeated breakups with Yang Ling.

Wu Zhenfeng attempted to de-escalate, but Chen Yu continued, lamenting that he could no longer be an anti-drug police officer despite all his sacrifices. As Chen Yu's angry outburst subsided, Wan Heda snatched the phone, desperate for news of Wan Mengmeng. Chen Yu coldly directed him to ask Hao Dong, implying Hao Dong's responsibility. Fearing further revelations, Hao Dong quickly seized the phone and asked Chen Yu to confirm the veracity of the police announcement regarding the case's resolution.

Chen Yu confirmed it was true. Chen Yu then demanded to speak with Wu Zhenfeng again, urging him to return to Yunhe and abandon his current path. Wu Zhenfeng dropped the phone, having seemingly convinced the others that Chen Yu was indeed his long-suspected "protector," thereby clearing their doubts. Both Wu Zhenfeng and Chen Yu shared a moment of quiet relief. Suddenly, Lin Dezan appeared behind Chen Yu, questioning him about the conversation and who he was speaking with.

Chen Yu fully disclosed everything they discussed, including a detailed recounting of past events he referenced to Wu Zhenfeng. Lin Dezan smiled in satisfaction, and Chen Yu gave him a respectful salute. Concurrently, Erliang pressured Wan Heda to dispose of their goods quickly, citing the growing impatience of their associates.

Episode 25 Recap

When Chen Yu returned, Yang Ling informed him that her father, Yang Xingquan, was waiting upstairs and seemed upset. Yang Ling expressed her concern to her father about his recent emotional state, to which Yang Xingquan apologized, promising not to involve her in his work again. Chen Yu then directly confronted Yang Xingquan, who already knew Chen Yu was investigating his accounts, especially those related to the tea factory and Wan Heda.

Yang Xingquan casually dismissed Chen Yu’s suspicion, stating that if Chen Yu wanted to investigate him, he should just ask Lin Dezan, as their relationship was so close, it was "just a word away." Chen Yu, asserting that he wouldn't suspect anyone without evidence, instead expressed curiosity about how Yang Xingquan became Lin Dezan's informant years ago. Yang Xingquan recounted meeting Lin Dezan twenty years prior when he was a waiter at a tea house.

He knew Lin Dezan enjoyed Pu'er tea and would often engage him in conversations about tea. One day, Yang Xingquan gave Lin Dezan a tip about drug dealing happening in the karaoke bar next door. Lin Dezan immediately led a raid, successfully apprehending drug dealers in the act. Yang Xingquan continued to provide accurate intelligence, leading to further successful busts at places like the bus station and Wuyi Plaza.

Yang Xingquan noted that these consistent and accurate tips earned Lin Dezan merits and awards. However, Yang Xingquan also pointed out a strange trend: later on, his direct tips became less frequent, yet the volume of drugs seized increased significantly. Yang Xingquan claimed that this valuable intelligence was given out of friendship and a strong aversion to drug-related harm.

He then stated that he was retaliated against by drug dealers, forcing him to abandon his daughter, Yang Ling, and flee abroad. Yang Xingquan described his life overseas as a laborer at a "tea factory," a vast tea mountain where he meticulously cared for "tea trees," detailing the harvesting and processing of "tea leaves" into cakes. He admitted that while the work was hard, he found fulfillment in it, and the "tea garden" business grew.

Chen Yu listened quietly, implicitly understanding that the "tea factory" was in fact an opium base, and the "tea" being processed was refined into drugs. Yang Xingquan then recounted meeting a woman named Qiong Jie, the daughter of the "boss," whom Chen Yu recognized as Li Yiqiong, a core member of Mengka.

Yang Xingquan described a time when Qiong Jie fell gravely ill, and he risked his life to find medicine for her, enduring a beating from her father at some point. After her recovery, Qiong Jie taught him many tea-making skills and involved him in the "tea business." When local armed forces attacked them, Yang Xingquan again risked his life to save Qiong Jie, and they both narrowly escaped.

In gratitude, Qiong Jie used her father's inheritance to help him start over, establishing a new "tea garden" with new workers and partners. Yang Xingquan then claimed that he eventually missed Yang Ling and returned the "tea garden" to Qiong Jie, coming back to Yunhe alone. He credited Qiong Jie with giving him "a new life."

Lin Dezan later explained to Chen Liwen that Yang Xingquan had contacted him ten years ago, wanting to return and engage in the tea business. Feeling deeply indebted to Yang Xingquan for his past cooperation, Lin Dezan had personally reunited Yang Xingquan with a seven-year-old Yang Ling at the social welfare institution. Lin Dezan, in a separate conversation with Chen Liwen, expressed his deep-seated anger at realizing he had been deceived by Yang Xingquan for twenty years.

He explained that Yang Xingquan had exploited his guilt, using his "informant" activities to eliminate competitors in Yunhe and clear obstacles for his own drug trafficking. Lin Dezan vowed zero tolerance for drug involvement and, despite being transferred out of Yunhe, declared his intention to thoroughly clear the city of drugs before his departure, acknowledging that his past mistakes could not be atoned for and his ambitions remained unfulfilled.

Meanwhile, Yang Xingquan questioned Chen Yu about his relationship with Wu Zhenfeng, speculating if Wu Zhenfeng was Chen Yu's informant. Chen Yu denied gaining anything from Wu Zhenfeng, claiming only deception and exploitation. However, Chen Yu admitted to feeling sympathy for Wu Zhenfeng, wondering if he himself might have followed a similar path if subjected to the same experiences.

He contrasted Yang Xingquan's fortunate encounters with good people, which led to a good outcome, with Wu Zhenfeng's unfortunate encounters with drug dealers, which led to a dire one. Following his decision, Lin Dezan orchestrated extensive anti-drug operations throughout Yunhe, launching large-scale investigations and search-and-seizure actions at suspected drug dealing and hiding locations.

He personally left behind all his accumulated honors, stating they could not compensate for the mistakes he had made in his life, and admitted to Yang Ling that his "unfulfilled ambitions" were why he had stayed in Yunhe for so many years. Separately, Yang Ling had filled the refrigerator with Chen Yu's favorite foods. She expressed a need for some space and quiet time, suggesting Chen Yu find another place to stay.

Yang Ling confided that she had been reflecting on Wu Zhenfeng's words about her father's good fortune in returning alive and having someone to prove his innocence, contrasting it with Wu Zhenfeng's desire not to be burdened by the identity of a drug dealer's son. While she trusted Chen Yu's judgment and believed he wouldn't suspect anyone without reason, she also acknowledged the undeniable fact of Yang Xingquan being her father.

She pressed Chen Yu for a definitive answer about the validity of his suspicions. Chen Yu, though empathetic, affirmed that he would not lie to her and that his sole commitment was to pursue the truth and find evidence, a path he believed she truly desired as well. Meanwhile, Lao Zhuo relentlessly pressured Hao Dong for the "Dahuang" capsules, demanding either the drugs or compensation for his losses resulting from Hao Dong's ongoing conflict with Mengka.

Hao Dong insisted that the current situation was not conducive to business and expressed his intention to quit. However, Qiong Jie sharply rebuked him, asserting that once involved in this line of work, there was no escaping it, much like an addiction. She warned that his associates and buyers would not allow him to quit and questioned whether he could truly guarantee he wouldn't return to it even if he stopped today.

She then pushed him to discuss their next drug transport. Hao Dong, firm on his terms, stated he would only return to Yunhe and discuss business if he could meet "Mr. Yu." Later that night, Hao Dong and Wan Heda followed a vehicle to the Chinese border, where they were met by handlers who escorted them to "Mr. Yu." To Hao Dong's shock, "Mr. Yu" revealed himself to be Yang Xingquan.

Yang Xingquan thanked Hao Dong for burning a previous location and confirmed that with Lin Dezan about to leave, Liu Kaihua gone, and Wan Mengmeng still unconscious and unable to speak, it was the safest and most opportune moment for a drug shipment. Hao Dong, wanting to wash his hands of the business, expressed his distrust of the police's success in dealing with Old Wan (Wanlutong) and demanded full control over this shipment and a 20% increase in his profit.

He offered Yang Xingquan all of his M-Gu and newly developed "Dahuang" capsules as part of his exit. Yang Xingquan agreed to the terms, promising Hao Dong his help if he ever needed it in the future. Hao Dong then found Jiang Lei, who had been hiding. Hao Dong affectionately urged Jiang Lei to leave Yunhe and reunite with his mother, explaining that their illicit profession had no end and he didn't want Jiang Lei to suffer the same fate.

Hao Dong declared his intention to undertake one final massive deal involving 200 kilograms of product and then quit the business permanently, emphasizing the critical importance of faultless raw materials. Police intelligence, overseen by Chen Liwen, confirmed that Hao Dong and Wan Heda had entered the wood carving factory and Wanlutong Transport Company the previous night.

Lin Dezan reported to Chen Liwen that Hao Dong had disappeared for three hours in an unsupervised area after entering the country before returning to the wood carving factory. Jiang Lei was also confirmed to have picked up Hao Dong at the border and remained with him until they entered the factory. The police believed their "pacification" efforts had worked, but the exact purpose of the trio's gathering (manufacturing or trafficking) remained unclear.

Chen Liwen inquired about Wu Zhenfeng, but no news had been received since Chen Yu's last contact with him. With the situation uncertain, Chen Liwen ordered close and discreet surveillance to avoid detection by the drug traffickers. The scene concluded with police moving to intercept, with one officer shouting, "Stop him!" and an unidentified voice warning someone cornered, "Since you're standing here, you must have thought it through. Either you can't get out, or you're threatening me."

Episode 26 Recap

Chen Yu, continuously monitoring, observed Jiang Lei and Liu Kaihua arranging a meeting at the gates of Wanlutong Company. He secretly filmed their interaction and reported to Lin Dezan, suspecting Liu Kaihua intended to help Jiang Lei transport goods. Indeed, Jiang Lei had summoned Liu Kaihua to secure his assistance in moving hundreds of tons of raw materials.

Jiang Lei revealed that Hao Dong had ordered the transport of a significant amount of raw materials, essential for "magu" production, into Yunhe for outward transfer. Jiang Lei expressed his intent to leave the country to be with his mother within a week or ten days after this final consignment. He appealed to Liu Kaihua for help, emphasizing that Liu Kaihua was no longer with the Yunhe County Anti-Drug Squad, so any incident wouldn't implicate him.

Liu Kaihua angrily accused Jiang Lei of sabotaging himself and reminded him of their past, but Jiang Lei retorted that Liu Kaihua wouldn't turn him in because of his mother, who is Liu Kaihua’s sister. Jiang Lei promised that this would be his last time, and he would never return to Yunhe. Lin Dezan instructed Chen Yu to closely monitor Liu Kaihua and Jiang Lei's vehicle, maintaining a discreet distance.

As they approached the inspection station, Lin Dezan also watched the live surveillance feed. At the checkpoint, Liu Kaihua, despite initial resistance, used his past authority to swiftly clear the vehicles. Chen Yu captured this on video. Liu Kaihua then borrowed a patrol car, following the convoy for a short distance before calling Jiang Lei to inform him that he would not proceed further. Jiang Lei attempted to persuade him to continue, but Liu Kaihua ended the call.

Liu Kaihua continued to follow Jiang Lei's vehicle, which led him to Hao Dong's wood carving factory, with Chen Yu trailing closely behind. Liu Kaihua entered the factory, where Hao Dong confronted him. Hao Dong questioned Liu Kaihua's presence, implying he was there to either stop the operation or assist in exchange for payment.

Hao Dong then forcefully reminded Liu Kaihua of his upbringing, his education, and his obligations, emphasizing the importance of kinship by stating that Jiang Lei was Liu Kaihua's nephew and his mother was Liu Kaihua's sister. He argued that if one could not grasp familial loyalty, they had no right to discuss morality or law. This emotional manipulation caused Liu Kaihua to leave the factory.

Following Liu Kaihua's departure, Chen Yu met with his informant, a recovering addict, instructing him to report immediately if Wu Zhenfeng contacted him. Meanwhile, Lin Dezan confirmed that Jiang Lei had transported nearly a ton of contraband, a vital raw material for "magu," from a neighboring county, solidifying suspicions that Hao Dong's wood carving factory was a major drug manufacturing den.

Lin Dezan then ordered round-the-clock, unblinking surveillance on both the wood carving factory and Wan Heda's Wanlutong freight company, aiming to catch the criminals red-handed once the raw materials were processed into drugs. As anticipated, Wu Zhenfeng, acting on instructions, later contacted his subordinate (who also served as Chen Yu's informant), arranging for a truck to meet him at the Nanshan border line by midnight.

Wu Zhenfeng was instructed to follow Gu Tou's directions to a packaging factory after picking up the goods and to keep his "police brother" (Chen Yu) out of the operation, assuring him that his share would not be withheld. Later, ten trucks from Wanlutong Company entered the wood carving factory. Hao Dong, after instructing Wan Heda to manage the packaging, announced his departure for Hong Kong, leaving the operation in their hands.

Lin Dezan reported to Chen Liwen, confirming that Wan Heda, Hao Dong, Jiang Lei, and the involved locations were under control. Chen Liwen, predicting large-scale drug trafficking via trucks, ordered Lin Dezan to depart immediately for the provincial department to prepare for an arrest operation. Later, Chen Yu intercepted Wu Zhenfeng and Gu Tou's vehicle. He feigned anger, accusing Wu Zhenfeng of excluding him from the operation and demanding his share.

Gu Tou reacted by pulling a gun on Chen Yu, but Chen Yu swiftly disarmed him. Wu Zhenfeng intervened, assuring Chen Yu that his share of the 200 kilograms of drugs would be delivered without fail. Chen Yu then laid down an ultimatum: the drug convoy must pass through the Jingbei inspection station to exit Yunhe, where he would be waiting, vowing to prevent them from leaving Yunhe by any other route.

Chen Yu immediately reported this to Lin Dezan, confirming Wu Zhenfeng's entry with the drugs and his demand for them to use the Jingbei checkpoint. Meanwhile, Jiang Lei made a call to Liu Kaihua, apologizing for implicating him in the drug operation. He advised Liu Kaihua to find a wife and live a stable life, and offered future assistance should Liu Kaihua ever need to leave Yunhe. Liu Kaihua listened in silence.

During the loading process, Gu Tou instructed Wu Zhenfeng to rest. A total of twenty vehicles were loaded from the wood carving factory, but only one contained the actual drugs, as a security measure. Wu Zhenfeng and Jiang Lei were assigned to escort one of the trucks, with Wu Zhenfeng placed in the first vehicle heading towards Shengjiang, following the route Chen Yu had specified.

Wu Zhenfeng was not informed of the final destination but was told it would be revealed later, only that they needed to exit Yunhe. He also noted that he wasn't certain if his specific truck contained the drugs, as only one of the twenty did. He engaged in a conversation while driving, mentioning that he and his co-driver were taking turns behind the wheel, that the co-driver was giving all directions, and that all rest stops were predetermined.

He also expressed a feeling of being under surveillance. Chen Yu reported to Deputy Chief Chen Liwen, confirming Wu Zhenfeng's limited knowledge of the route and destination, and the use of decoy trucks. Chen Liwen approved Chen Yu to continue following Wu Zhenfeng, recognizing both the need to protect Wu Zhenfeng and the importance of Jiang Lei as a critical lead. The convoy later passed through a checkpoint, and at a subsequent point, Wu Zhenfeng was instructed to get out of the car, his part of the mission complete.

Episode 27 Recap

Twenty trucks from Wanlutong and Mudiaochang departed Yunhe, with ten heading to Shengjiang and the others dispersing to various provinces like Guangxi, Hunan, Hubei, Guizhou, and Sichuan. Authorities could not determine which specific truck carried the drugs. Beijing emphasized the importance of this operation, appointing Chen Liwen, Deputy Chief of the Anti-Drug Detachment of the Cangnan Provincial Public Security Department, as the field commander for the arrest operation.

In Hong Kong, Hao Dong was observed with Uncle Zhuo, who offered him a carving tool and suggested he pay respects to Guan Gong. Hao Dong, however, stated that he didn't believe in such things, only in his father, as an image of Wang Yikun appeared in his mind. The carving tool he held was a gift from Wang Yikun. Ten of the trucks continued towards Shengjiang. Meanwhile, Liu Kaihua took a flight from Kundu Airport to Shengjiang.

Wu Zhenfeng, traveling with Jiang Lei, was suddenly told to get out of the vehicle at a service station, being informed his "work was done." Jiang Lei directed him to a white car on a nearby pedestrian bridge where his payment awaited, its password sent to his phone. Chen Yu, who had been following, was surprised by this development and immediately reported to Lin Dezan. Wu Zhenfeng also contacted Chen Liwen, explaining that Jiang Lei had left him stranded.

Chen Liwen, recognizing that Liu Kaihua's arrival in Shengjiang was likely not a coincidence, instructed Wu Zhenfeng to track Liu Kaihua's movements, as Chen Yu was already tailing Jiang Lei. Chen Liwen stressed that Wu Zhenfeng should report all findings but avoid any unauthorized actions, with his safety being the top priority. The ten trucks that entered Shengjiang dispersed to various docks, including Longkou, Shengjiang, Nangang, Binhai, and Matoushan. Jiang Lei's vehicle, designated as Target 1, specifically entered Matoushan Port.

The Guangdong Provincial Public Security Department and Shengjiang police had already deployed forces at the five ports and docks. Chen Liwen emphasized that by tracking Jiang Lei to find Wan Heda, they could ultimately determine which dock held the drugs. Chen Yu reported that he had lost sight of Jiang Lei for half an hour and requested permission to search the warehouses. Lin Dezan denied this, instructing him to continue surveillance without exposing himself.

Chen Yu, concerned about losing the drugs, then suggested to Chen Liwen initiating an immediate arrest at the docks. However, Chen Liwen reminded him that the final stage of the operation was planned for Hong Kong, and a premature move would jeopardize the Ministry's entire strategy. Lin Dezan also expressed concern about the possibility of the drugs being shipped to international waters, or if the destination was not Hong Kong, which would complicate their plans.

Chen Liwen decided to wait, asserting that if Jiang Lei and the precise location of the drugs remained unknown before the ships departed, they would then consider an arrest in Shengjiang. Jiang Lei met with Wan Heda, who confirmed that "Ah Can" needed to inspect the cargo and that it would be loaded onto a ship at 8:05 PM that night, arriving in Hong Kong the next morning.

Meanwhile, Wu Zhenfeng continued to tail Liu Kaihua, who toured multiple docks in Shengjiang by taxi, asking if Jiang Lei or his cargo had entered. However, dock personnel reported no record of Jiang Lei's entry. Chen Yu, having lost track of Jiang Lei, contacted Yang Yi and asked him to visit Yang Xingquan, hoping to uncover any potential communications or leads. Yang Yi arrived at Yang Xingquan's, feigning that Yang Ling had sent him to retrieve some study materials.

He then suggested staying for dinner and enjoying Yang Xingquan's soup. When Yang Xingquan offered to invite Lin Dezan to join them, Yang Yi mentioned that Lin Dezan and "Team Leader Liu" had both gone to the provincial capital for "study," hinting at their removal from active duty. Unable to locate Jiang Lei at the docks, Liu Kaihua called him. Jiang Lei initially avoided the call, but later secretly called Liu Kaihua back, confirming he was safe aboard a ship.

Liu Kaihua then revealed his presence in Shengjiang, explaining that his "promotion" was a sham and that the task force had been dissolved, with him effectively removed from his position and put under surveillance due to their connection. Believing his career was over and fearing arrest once the current shipment was complete, he implored Jiang Lei to help him escape.

Jiang Lei then instructed Liu Kaihua to meet him at the "Shengshi Fangzhou" cargo ship at berth 405 in Binhai Dock. Wu Zhenfeng, who had been following Liu Kaihua and observed the call, reported his observations to Chen Liwen. Chen Liwen deduced Liu Kaihua's destination was Binhai Dock and immediately dispatched Chen Yu to rendezvous with Wu Zhenfeng there. After Wu Zhenfeng observed Jiang Lei and Liu Kaihua meeting at Binhai Dock, he reported back to Chen Liwen.

Jiang Lei informed Liu Kaihua that the cargo would be loaded promptly at 8:05 PM that evening, departing shortly thereafter to arrive in Hong Kong the following morning. Liu Kaihua then boarded the vessel with Jiang Lei. Chen Yu arrived and met with Wu Zhenfeng, confirming his presence to Chen Liwen.

Chen Yu expressed concern that Liu Kaihua boarding the ship might complicate their operation, as they still couldn't definitively confirm if the drugs were at Binhai Dock or on that particular vessel. He reported seeing guarded cargo piled on the dock and offered to go deeper to verify.

Chen Liwen instructed Chen Yu to protect Wu Zhenfeng and, after dark, conduct a discreet reconnaissance to confirm the locations of Wan Heda and the drugs, emphasizing that he should withdraw immediately afterward. Chen Liwen reiterated that the operation's final phase was planned for Hong Kong, not Shengjiang. Wu Zhenfeng initially attempted to assert his "big brother" role, suggesting he should protect Chen Yu.

Chen Yu reminded him that as a police officer, he was responsible, and Wu Zhenfeng, currently posing as a drug dealer, would find it easier to scout. However, Wu Zhenfeng insisted on accompanying Chen Yu, emphasizing the need for backup if something went wrong and recalling their failure to return together three years prior. He vowed they would return together this time.

Despite Wu Zhenfeng's insistence, Chen Yu refused, reassuring him that he would only do a quick scout and return shortly, even joking about his duck neck. As Chen Yu began his reconnaissance, he suddenly heard shouts of "Someone in Zone B!" indicating that an intruder, later identified as Liu Kaihua, had been discovered while investigating vehicles and cargo.

Episode 28 Recap

Liu Kaihua, an anti-narcotics captain and Jiang Lei's uncle, waited in the ship's cabin. When Jiang Lei brought him food, Liu Kaihua seized the opportunity to confront him, demanding to know the location of the drugs. Jiang Lei pleaded desperately for his freedom and to be allowed to go to Hong Kong, reminding Liu Kaihua of promises and his mother. Liu Kaihua insisted that Jiang Lei admit his mistake and reveal the drugs' whereabouts.

Jiang Lei retaliated by taunting Liu Kaihua, calling him a "Narcotics Captain" who sacrifices family for duty, and dared him to use his gun. Jiang Lei then shouted for help, which attracted his subordinate. Liu Kaihua quickly knocked Jiang Lei unconscious and forced the subordinate to lead him to the cargo hold. Upon reaching B-zone, where the goods were stored, Liu Kaihua immediately contacted 110 to report the discovery of a large quantity of drugs at Binhai Pier.

Shortly after, their presence was detected by patrolling individuals, leading to a violent confrontation. A fierce battle erupted on the ship as Chen Yu joined Liu Kaihua in combating the drug traffickers. The commotion quickly reached Wan Heda, who, realizing his cargo was compromised and facing police infiltration, furiously ordered his men to destroy all the goods and eliminate anyone in their path.

Meanwhile, Chen Yu managed to report the chaotic situation to Deputy Chief Chen Liwen, who promptly issued emergency orders. The original, larger-scale arrest operation planned for Hong Kong was immediately cancelled, and all available police forces were redirected to besiege the cargo ship at Binhai Pier. During the intense fighting, Chen Yu sustained injuries and was later hospitalized. A total of 46 drug traffickers, including Wan Heda, were apprehended.

Amidst the chaos, Wu Zhenfeng, observing the police encirclement, requested permission from Chen Liwen to escape with Bone via speedboat to Hong Kong, aiming to pursue the drug traffickers' higher echelons there. Chen Liwen reluctantly agreed, acknowledging it was their last hope. Wu Zhenfeng, Ah Can, and Bone fled the pier on a speedboat, heading for Hong Kong. Upon arrival, Wu Zhenfeng swiftly abandoned Ah Can and Bone, making his own escape.

Ah Can and Bone were then captured by Old Zhu's subordinates in Hong Kong. Simultaneously, Liu Kaihua brought Jiang Lei into custody and prepared to surrender himself. He penned a deeply remorseful letter to Director Lin Dezan, expressing profound regret for failing his duties as a police officer due to personal weakness when confronted with family ties.

He admitted to indulging Jiang Lei, which led to his nephew's downfall, and stated his intention to personally ensure Jiang Lei faced legal judgment. Liu Kaihua conveyed his inability to face Director Lin, believing his mistake had ruined his life, yet he reaffirmed his commitment to his police uniform and badge, viewing his surrender as a necessary, albeit belated, act of redemption.

At the same time, Old Zhu, furious about the failed pier operation and the massive loss of pre-paid goods, frantically ordered his remaining men to escape, abandoning the compromised cargo. Separately, Yang Xingquan, who was with Yang Yi, received an urgent call from 'Qiong Jie' about the disastrous pier incident. Overhearing the agitated conversation, Yang Yi attempted to leave but was stopped and interrogated by Yang Xingquan about what he had overheard.

Yang Yi bravely confronted Yang Xingquan, accusing him of deceiving Chen Yu, Director Lin, and Yang Ling. He revealed his knowledge of Yang Xingquan's involvement in drug trafficking and demanded details about the transactions. Yang Xingquan tried to manipulate Yang Yi by appealing to their family-like relationship and warning him about Yang Ling's potential reaction. Yang Yi, however, declared himself a police officer and attempted to arrest Yang Xingquan, urging him to surrender for a lenient sentence.

A struggle ensued, and Yang Xingquan, with a desperate resolve, fatally shot Yang Yi. After waiting all night for Yang Yi to return, and having received a mysterious text from him the previous day warning her not to go home, Yang Ling sensed something was terribly wrong. She frantically rode her electric bike towards their home.

Simultaneously, Lan Anran and Zhou Bowen had already discovered Yang Yi's body and were informing Yang Xingquan that the gunshot wound suggested the weapon originated from foreign drug traffickers. Yang Ling arrived, distraught, and upon hearing the devastating news, cried out, desperate to see Yang Yi. Lan Anran compassionately embraced her to offer comfort. Later, at the hospital, Director Lin Dezan delivered the tragic news of Yang Yi's sacrifice to a recovering Chen Yu.

Chen Yu was consumed by guilt, confessing that he was the one who called Yang Yi and asked him to go to the tea factory because he couldn't find the drugs himself, never imagining such a tragic outcome. He expressed his conviction that Yang Xingquan was responsible. Hao Dong, the drug lord, received a report from Bone about the pier operation's failure, confirming that only Bone himself was apprehended and Wu Zhenfeng had escaped.

Hao Dong expressed concern for his captured men and struggled to believe that Jiang Lei would betray him. Bone's news that Liu Kaihua, a police captain, had been on the ship deeply shattered Hao Dong's confidence, implying a massive infiltration and betrayal within his network. Later, as Director Lin Dezan drove Chen Yu home from the hospital, Yang Ling called Chen Yu, her voice trembling with grief.

She pressed him for answers about Yang Yi's death, reminding him of Yang Yi's last message telling her not to go home. Both Lin Dezan and Chen Yu were overwhelmed with sorrow, with Chen Yu struggling to articulate his pain, only able to offer comfort and promise to explain everything once he returned. After hanging up, the profound sorrow of losing Yang Yi was palpable between Lin Dezan and Chen Yu.

Episode 29 Recap

Following the intense events in Shengjiang, Hao Dong found himself in a desperate situation, still unable to believe that Lei Zi would betray them. When pressed for a plan by Lao Zhuo, Hao Dong initially admitted he had none. As Lao Zhuo ordered his men to take him away, a terrified Hao Dong desperately pleaded for more time to investigate, asserting he possessed Dahuang Capsule.

This assertion was met with skepticism, as he had previously stated the goods were seized, but in truth, he had been researching the capsule and had his own means to produce it. Facing a grim fate, Hao Dong screamed that if he were killed, the truth about the Dahuang Capsule would remain hidden. Amidst this turmoil, Wu Zhenfeng called Lao Zhuo, identifying himself and asserting his intention to meet, but only after ensuring Qiong Jie was well taken care of.

Meanwhile, Chen Yu expressed his deep anger to Lin Dezan upon learning that Wu Zhenfeng had gone to Hong Kong. He saw it as a reckless gamble with Wu Zhenfeng's life, even if it represented a final opportunity to apprehend the drug traffickers. Lin Dezan explained that Chen Liwen had established a valuable contact in Hong Kong who might be able to assist Wu Zhenfeng.

Chen Liwen's crucial contact was Uncle Sha, a former underworld figure known as the "White Powder King." Chen Liwen had once saved Uncle Sha's life and helped him go legitimate. Feeling compelled to repay this long-standing debt after Chen Liwen's outreach, Uncle Sha actively sought out Wu Zhenfeng and then guided him to meet Lao Zhuo.

Upon meeting Lao Zhuo, Wu Zhenfeng first apologized for his forceful entry, explaining he acted that way to avoid implicating Uncle Sha in any rough tactics. He then introduced Uncle Sha to Lao Zhuo as an old friend of his father, asserting his connections.

Wu Zhenfeng boldly declared that with Wan Heda apprehended and the usual routes closed, he was the only one who could manage transportation, asserting that Uncle Sha had boats and from now on, he would lead the way. Lao Zhuo and others expressed their mistrust, stating their only reason for the meeting was out of respect for Qiong Jie. Wu Zhenfeng challenged them, reminding them that Hong Kong's drug trade wasn't monopolized, nor was Mokkha the only source.

Qiong Jie questioned his loyalty to Mokkha, to which Wu Zhenfeng simply replied he "used to be." Uncle Sha attempted to leave with Wu Zhenfeng, sensing the futility, but Qiong Jie halted them. Qiong Jie then demanded information about the Dahuang Capsule from Hao Dong. Hao Dong admitted the existing supply was gone, but that he had someone else producing it. He revealed that the people were in Yunhe and the raw materials were in the mainland, making retrieval challenging.

Qiong Jie indicated a desire to proceed with a new batch in Mokkha. Simultaneously, the police made significant progress in their own investigation. They discovered a drug lab in the basement of a wood carving factory, containing raw materials and Dahuang Capsule counterfeits matching those from the Yun Dian Disco case. High concentrations of Diazepam, identical to the drug injected during Wan Mengmeng's stabbing, were also found.

Based on Yu Miao's unusually swift reaction during Wan Mengmeng's stabbing at the rehab center, his prior private assistance with her detox, and the meticulously organized state of both the lab and Yu Miao’s office, Chen Yu and the police deduced that Yu Miao was likely Hao Dong's drug maker for the K organization, and the person who stabbed Wan Mengmeng but then, out of fear, saved her.

In light of these developments, Liu Kaihua was expelled from party membership and public office, and handed over to judicial authorities. Liang Hao was appointed acting deputy captain, and Lin Dezan's transfer was postponed, with him continuing to lead the public security work in Yunhe. A solemn farewell ceremony was prepared for the fallen officer, Yang Yi, who had always vowed to be the first to face danger and sacrifice.

Lin Dezan visited Gong Wei's gatehouse, overcome with grief and self-reproach. He agonized over his failure to protect Gong Wei, Liu Kaihua, and now Yang Yi, questioning his worth as a director. He expressed deep reluctance to retire under such circumstances, pondering if his failures were due to his incompetence or an inescapable fate, yet resigned himself to accepting it if it were his destiny.

Chen Yu and Lin Dezan later visited Yang Ling, who was distraught and secluded in her room. Chen Yu embraced her, burdened by his own guilt, confessing that he was the one who called Yang Yi to the tea factory that fateful night, leading him to believe Yang Yi died there. He vowed to bring the person responsible for Yang Yi’s death and the family's ruin to justice, regardless of their proximity.

Chen Yu also directly stated his suspicion that Yang Xingquan was responsible for her family's ruin, a possibility Yang Ling secretly harbored but refused to admit. Chen Yu urged her to maintain a facade of normalcy to avoid alerting Yang Xingquan. The entire police force, led by Chen Liwen, gathered for Yang Yi's farewell, standing solemnly before a hero's monument.

Later, Yang Ling visited Yang Yi’s grave, sharing her quiet thoughts with her brother, believing her presence would bring him happiness. From a distance, Chen Yu observed her, then silently departed and called Lin Dezan, requesting a meeting. General Yu, through Qiong Jie and Lao Zhuo's negotiation, set new conditions for continuing the drug transactions: both Wu Zhenfeng and Hao Dong must return to Mokkha, and the Dahuang Capsule must be manufactured there.

Qiong Jie offered herself as a hostage to facilitate the trust, but Lao Zhuo, trusting General Yu, allowed her to return, stating she was no longer needed as collateral. As Chen Yu looked at Yang Yi's photo, recalling their shared past and placing it near his heart, Lin Dezan revealed that Wu Zhenfeng trusted Chen Yu more than he realized, citing a phone call Wu Zhenfeng made to him from Mokkha as proof.

Driven by a bold idea, Chen Yu proposed an infiltration. He aimed to go undercover, cooperate with Wu Zhenfeng from within the criminal organization, and ensure his safety. He acknowledged the enemy might not trust him, but argued that his knowledge of the Dahuang Capsule would be a powerful leverage they would be compelled to accept.

Despite Lin Dezan's grim assessment of his chances, Chen Yu passionately insisted on his 80% certainty in protecting Wu Zhenfeng, even if it meant sacrificing his own life. He lamented his inability to stand by Wu Zhenfeng three years prior and refused to watch him face danger alone again. Lin Dezan, moved by Chen Yu's resolve, agreed to report his plan to the organization. Upon arrival in Mokkha, Hao Dong was immediately confined.

Wu Zhenfeng proactively offered to contact Chen Yu, stressing that the Mokkha group now needed Chen Yu's assistance. Qiong Jie agreed, allowing Wu Zhenfeng to make the call. Chen Yu then proposed a face-to-face meeting, which Qiong Jie accepted, naming Wu's Jade Shop as the location. Upon meeting Chen Yu at the shop, Qiong Jie, accompanied by Erliang, took Chen Yu's phone and issued a new demand: he must help them bring Yu Miao from the Yunhe Rehab Center. Qiong Jie then ominously stated that the police would arrive soon, intending to arrest Chen Yu that very day, placing him in an extremely precarious position.

Episode 30 Recap

Qiong Jie, acting on behalf of Yang Xingquan's drug group, met with Chen Yu, demanding he bring Yu Miao, whom they believed was responsible for creating the "Big Yellow Capsule" that caused deaths. Qiong Jie confirmed that the watch Chen Yu carried belonged to Hao Dong, which would make Yu Miao trust Chen Yu. Chen Yu was instructed to prepare raw materials, and he stated he was the only one who could obtain the formula they sought.

He set two conditions: Wu Zhenfeng must remain unharmed, and they must agree on profit distribution. Chen Yu also revealed he had already adjusted the proportions, ensuring that even with the same raw materials, they would not replicate the original "Big Yellow Capsule." Chen Yu then reported to Lin Dezan, who questioned his chances of success. Chen Yu expressed confidence, stating that the group's desire for the "Big Yellow Capsule" was his only leverage to approach and protect Wu Zhenfeng.

Lin Dezan warned Chen Yu about the unpredictable dangers in Mengka, instructing him to be adaptable, protect himself and Wu Zhenfeng, quickly locate the drug manufacturing lab, delay production, and await backup. Chen Yu then requested to bid farewell to Yang Ling, feeling she needed to be prepared if he appeared as a drug dealer. He asked Lin Dezan to care for Yang Ling if anything unforeseen happened, just as he did when she was a child.

Lin Dezan rejected this as a farewell, sternly ordering Chen Yu to return alive for Yang Ling, for Wu Zhenfeng, for himself, and for the promise he made to be an anti-drug officer. Chen Yu later received instructions to pick up goods from a factory the next day. Preparing to leave, he told Yang Ling to rent out his upstairs room, but at a higher price than what she paid.

He also asked her to buy a birthday gift for Lin Dezan from his salary, providing her birthday as the password for his account. He asked her to keep Yang Yi's memory alive, confessing that he hadn't been an adequate boyfriend to Yang Ling and owed her much. He promised they would have a simple, happy life together in the future, but emphasized that he had to leave today to achieve a drug-free world.

Yang Ling sensed the immense danger of his mission. Chen Yu confessed he had sworn to Yang Yi to avenge him, and expressed a deep desire to say everything he wanted to Yang Ling before it was too late, unlike Yang Yi. He reassured Yang Ling of his love and that his actions were worthwhile, entrusting her with a jade pendant for safekeeping. At a drug rehabilitation expert's lecture, Chen Yu found Yu Miao backstage.

Yu Miao, recognizing Hao Dong's watch, anxiously asked for Hao Dong's whereabouts. Chen Yu accused Yu Miao of making the deadly "Big Yellow Capsule" and of trying to kill Wan Mengmeng but then regretting it, evidenced by his precise calculation of drug onset and preparation of Flumazenil for Diazepam overdose. Soon after, Lan Anran reported to Lin Dezan that Chen Yu had taken Yu Miao and the plan was proceeding as scheduled.

Yu Miao panicked, asking if he could never go back, and Chen Yu confirmed that he couldn't. Meanwhile, Wu Zhenfeng was carving his father's face when Yang Xingquan appeared. Yang Xingquan first addressed Wu Zhenfeng, asking about his carving and his carpentry skills for making a coffin, and if he recognized the face he was carving.

Yang Xingquan then confronted Hao Dong, stating their three years of grievances could finally be settled, as agreed in Hong Kong, but their personal debts could not. Yang Xingquan appeared to hallucinate his wife, Chunlan, and daughter, Yang Ling. Hao Dong argued that drug-related debts could not be repaid with blood and accused Yang Xingquan of being responsible for his wife's death by acting as a police informant.

He provocatively suggested that without Yang Xingquan's wife's death, Yang Xingquan would not have met his current associate nor established himself in Mengka, and he urged Yang Xingquan to shoot him. Hao Dong then admitted to killing Wu Gang, but claimed Yang Xingquan orchestrated the entire situation, manipulating everyone, including Wan Heda, Wu Gang, and Wu Zhenfeng himself. He then encouraged Wu Zhenfeng to kill Yang Xingquan.

Later, Chen Yu interrogated Yu Miao about his journey from a pharmacist to a drug manufacturer. Yu Miao explained that as a low-paid assistant pharmacist, he took private jobs helping people detox. He met Hao Dong, who was addicted to drugs due to his father's death but sought Yu Miao's help to quit for revenge. Yu Miao believed internal strength was crucial for recovery.

Three years prior, after avenging his father and taking over his business, Hao Dong invited Yu Miao to join him in making "magu," using his professional expertise. Yu Miao described how the first payment fundamentally changed him, opening his desires and making the smell of chemicals vanish, replaced by the feeling of financial security. He felt he could achieve boundless value with Hao Dong.

Yu Miao then revealed the depth of his desire for money, recounting a humiliating experience meeting his college girlfriend's parents, who scorned him due to his poverty, leading to their breakup over a 200,000 yuan dowry. Chen Yu expressed pity for Yu Miao, whose hands could have saved lives, but noted Yu Miao hadn't surpassed a rival named Hu Qingshan in making the Big Yellow Capsule formula.

Yu Miao vehemently dismissed this, claiming Hu Qingshan was merely lucky and that with his formula, he could create the world's best "Big Yellow Capsule." Chen Yu then revealed he possessed the formula and raw materials, offering to help Yu Miao. Yu Miao frantically demanded the formula, but Chen Yu stated it was in his mind and would only be shared if Yu Miao trusted him unconditionally.

Hao Dong continued to provoke Yang Xingquan, linking their respective fates to their fathers. He warned that if he were killed, his ghost would haunt Yang Xingquan and Yang Ling, and someone would inevitably seek revenge for him. Enraged, Yang Xingquan shot and killed Hao Dong. Yang Xingquan then told Chen Yu that he was next.

Chen Yu transported Yu Miao, hidden in a container with the raw materials, while police monitored their route, confirming their passage through the South Inspection Station. Meanwhile, Yang Ling met Lin Dezan at the orphanage where she grew up.

She told him Chen Yu had said goodbye, and, now aware that Yang Xingquan was her biological father and deeply disturbed by it, she expressed a desire to understand Chen Yu's mission, especially since he, Yang Yi, and Lin Dezan were her family, and she wished to contribute. Lin Dezan reassured her that she would be brave and strong like her brother, Yang Yi, and that while a life-or-death struggle lay ahead, he believed Chen Yu would return safely.

Upon arriving at the border, Chen Yu and Yu Miao were instructed to leave their vehicle. A report confirmed Yang Xingquan had crossed the border an hour earlier. Wu Zhenfeng, who was already at the destination in Mengka, refused to hand over the formula unless he spoke with a "Mr. Yu." Yu Miao, upon realizing they were in Mengka, anxiously asked about Hao Dong.

He was informed that Hao Dong was dead, a revelation that plunged him into shock and led him to accuse Chen Yu of lying. Yu Miao became distraught and was forcibly removed, told that "K is over" and he was now one of them in Mengka. A report confirmed Chen Yu had been brought out of the country as planned.

Police command instructed their foreign counterparts to cooperate, with the primary goal of identifying and capturing the true drug manufacturing site during production, without alerting the suspects. Chen Liwen was informed that Yang Ling, having learned her biological father Yang Xingquan's true identity, had volunteered to assist the police. Lin Dezan vouched for Yang Ling, emphasizing his trust in her as he had watched her grow up. Finally, Chen Yu was brought into a cell where Wu Zhenfeng was confined. Upon seeing Chen Yu, Wu Zhenfeng remarked, "Long time no see, Chen Yu. You coming to talk business with me, there's only one possibility: this is a setup."

Episode 31 Recap

Wu Zhenfeng reflected on Hao Dong's death, admitting that despite expecting to feel profound relief and revenge, he felt nothing at all, questioning if he had truly avenged himself. Chen Yu, noticing Wu Zhenfeng's weariness, asked where he had been living for the past three years. Wu Zhenfeng pointed to a small room behind their current location, describing it as comfortable and even offering to take Chen Yu to enjoy the moon that night as a gesture of hospitality.

Meanwhile, Yang Xingquan personally sought out Yu Miao, attempting to persuade him to fully commit. He spoke of Yu Miao's past achievement in developing a withdrawal drug for a rehabilitation center but emphasized that his true value lay in making Magu. Yang Xingquan highlighted Yu Miao's failure to produce the Big Yellow Capsule, presenting Mengka as his last chance.

He promised to give Yu Miao everything Hao Dong could, and even allow him to rename the Big Yellow Capsule once it was successfully produced. Yu Miao, desperate for the formula, eagerly assured Yang Xingquan that he could achieve great success if he was given Chen Yu's Big Yellow Capsule formula. Back in their confinement, Wu Zhenfeng urged Chen Yu to prioritize his own survival, stating he came there to ensure Chen Yu got out alive.

Chen Yu immediately rebuffed him, reminding Wu Zhenfeng that he had always been the one protecting him since childhood. He asserted his role as a police officer, insisting he must be the one leading the charge. Wu Zhenfeng, however, countered that he had no attachments, unlike Chen Yu who had Yang Ling, whom he described as a good girl. He revealed that he had grown accustomed to living life on the edge for the past three years.

Wu Zhenfeng then gave Chen Yu specific instructions should anything happen to him: to buy good wine, not cheap liquor, and pour it on his grave, insisting on fresh flowers instead of paper wreaths. Chen Yu retorted that it was still uncertain who would be burying whom. Wu Zhenfeng then shared that he had visited Chen Yu's father before coming, even lighting a cigarette for him, remarking on its awful taste.

The next day, Chen Yu and Wu Zhenfeng were brought before Yang Xingquan, who greeted Chen Yu, pondering whether to call him "Mr. Yang" or "Boss Yu." Yang Xingquan immediately expressed his suspicion that Chen Yu was part of a police setup. Chen Yu, attempting to keep his cover, mentioned Yang Ling as the reason for his silence and stated he was "naturally at odds" with Yang Yi.

Yang Xingquan then turned to Wu Zhenfeng, questioning why Old Sha, who had retired for years, would suddenly become involved. Wu Zhenfeng reiterated his earlier claim that Old Sha owed his father a favor. To test this, Yang Xingquan showed a video call where Old Zhuo was beating a bloodied Old Sha.

Old Sha, defiant, declared his debt to Wu Zhenfeng's father was paid and gave Yang Xingquan an ultimatum: either kill them, or give him half the profits from the successful shipment, and he would let bygones be bygones. Wu Zhenfeng then boldly stated his true purpose was to avenge his father and eventually eliminate Yang Xingquan.

Yang Xingquan, still suspicious of a setup, suddenly handed a gun to both Chen Yu and Wu Zhenfeng, commanding them that only one of them could survive to do business with him. In a surprising turn, Chen Yu and Wu Zhenfeng immediately pointed their guns at Yang Xingquan and Yu Miao.

Yu Miao, terrified, begged Yang Xingquan not to shoot, emphasizing that without Chen Yu and the precise formula ratio, he couldn't make the Big Yellow Capsule, and if he died, everything would be lost. Yang Xingquan and Er Liang swiftly disarmed Chen Yu and Wu Zhenfeng, then brutally beat them. Yang Xingquan grabbed Chen Yu by the hair, demanding to know if this was a police setup.

Chen Yu, maintaining his cover, defiantly proclaimed that Liu Kaihua was gone and he himself was finished with being a police officer. He brazenly declared his intention to make drugs, stating he and Wu Zhenfeng would transport the goods and split 50% of the profits, daring Yang Xingquan to kill him if he didn't believe him. Yang Xingquan then ordered his men to continue beating them. Meanwhile, Yi Qiong tried to persuade Yang Ling to go to Yang Xingquan.

She explained that Yang Xingquan did everything for Yang Ling and wanted his daughter to understand him, asserting that no one in the world loved Yang Ling more than her father. Yang Ling, however, remained resolute, demanding to know why Yang Xingquan wouldn't come himself. Yi Qiong sidestepped the question by saying Yang Xingquan was waiting for her and revealed that Chen Yu was also there, suggesting Yang Ling would find all her answers if she went.

The police were closely monitoring Yang Ling's movements, anticipating that she would deliver an item to Chen Yu, enabling him to transmit their location. Just as Chen Yu and Wu Zhenfeng were enduring a severe beating, Old Sha unexpectedly made another video call. He informed Yang Xingquan that his men now had the upper hand, having captured Old Zhuo and his associates.

Old Sha sternly warned Yang Xingquan that if anything happened to Wu Zhenfeng, his goods would never reach Hong Kong. Despite their dire situation, Wu Zhenfeng humorously lamented that no one would bring him wine if he died, and Chen Yu, battered but defiant, taunted his attackers, reminding them of his past fighting prowess and his three years as a police officer. Yang Xingquan was visibly delighted when Yang Ling finally arrived, opening his arms to embrace her.

However, Yang Ling stared at him intently, her immediate concern being Chen Yu's whereabouts. Upon seeing Chen Yu caged and injured, she was heartbroken. Chen Yu, observing her distress, emotionally promised that if he survived, they would leave everything behind and he would dedicate his life to giving her the simple, happy life she deserved, a life free from drugs. He confessed his shortcomings as a boyfriend, expressing his fear of dying without having said everything, unlike Yang Yi.

He pleaded with Yang Ling to believe in his love and the worth of his actions. Yang Ling recalled Chen Yu having made almost identical promises before. Yi Qiong, moved by Chen Yu's words, remembered her own deep trust in Yang Xingquan and squeezed his hand, drawing a parallel to Yang Ling's loyalty. Yang Ling then fiercely demanded Yang Xingquan release Chen Yu, asking for water and medicine.

Seeing Yang Xingquan hesitate, Yi Qiong impulsively snatched the keys from Er Liang, opened the cell door, and then pulled Yang Xingquan away, reflecting on how she had similarly entrusted her life to him in the past. At that moment, Old Sha called again, confirming he had reached an agreement with Yang Xingquan and Old Zhuo for the shipment, but reiterated his condition that Wu Zhenfeng must be present when the goods were received.

Yang Ling managed to enter the cell to give Chen Yu water and medicine, though she couldn't free him. While embracing him, she discreetly passed him a tracker. Chen Yu, in a low voice, instructed her to hide it securely and not activate it until the time and location of the drug manufacturing were confirmed, as it was unsafe to carry it before then.

As dawn approached, Chen Yu and Yu Miao were removed from their confinement and taken away in a vehicle, while a sleeping Yang Ling remained unaware. They were driven to the Chinese border, where Er Liang was waiting with Yu Miao's lab equipment. Yu Miao, terrified, pleaded for his life, repeatedly claiming he was useful for making Magu.

The police, monitoring Chen Yu's movement, noted his entry into the country but the lack of Wu Zhenfeng, and lost the signal as the vehicle went off-road into a jungle. Yang Ling, waking up later, desperately sought Chen Yu, only to be told by Er Liang that he had been taken to "where he should go." At the drug production site, Chen Yu, after observing the setup, made a resolute phone call to Yang Xingquan.

He firmly stated he would not begin mass production until he saw both Wu Zhenfeng and Yang Ling, offering only a sample to prove his capabilities in the interim. Yang Xingquan, cornered, reluctantly agreed to come to the location. Chen Yu then asserted his authority, ordering everyone, including Yu Miao, out of the lab, declaring he was about to begin. Before leaving to meet Chen Yu, Yang Xingquan felt a sense of unease.

He embraced Yi Qiong tightly, kissing her, and expressed his gratitude for her role in providing him a few days of peaceful life back in Yunhe. Yi Qiong urged him to reconsider and stop, but Yang Xingquan, resigned, responded that there was no turning back, reminding her that they had already faced death countless times before.

Meanwhile, police officers, having lit incense for their fallen comrades, reaffirmed their commitment to eradicate all drug dens before any shipment could occur, vowing that no drug dealer would escape this operation.

Episode 32 (Ending) Recap

In the lab, Chen Yu worked on the Yellow Capsules formula, stalling for time by frequently checking his watch, much to the anxious Yu Miao's frustration. Yu Miao tried to see the formula, but Chen Yu shielded it from view. Yang Xingquan arrived with Yang Ling, and Chen Yu insisted he would not proceed without seeing Wu Zhenfeng. Yang Xingquan reluctantly agreed.

During this time, Chen Yu activated a hidden tracker, transmitting his location at the Guangmang Mountain Tea Factory to the police. Meanwhile, Yang Ling had also prepared a powder extracted from the Yellow Capsules, meant to save Chen Yu at a critical moment. After a successful test on mice, Chen Yu still refused to begin mass production, infuriating Yang Xingquan, who pointed a gun at his head.

Yang Ling intervened, and Chen Yu demanded a phone call to confirm Wu Zhenfeng was alive. Yang Xingquan conceded. On the call, Chen Yu informed Wu Zhenfeng he was starting the production of 100 kilograms, instructing him to arrange the logistics with Sha and prepare to pick up the shipment at 1 AM, with Bones as his guide.

The police command center, having received Chen Yu's signal and intel from their informant Hui about the 1 AM pickup, began a full-scale mobilization. Surrounding police forces, including the Panther Commando unit, converged on Yunhe. Chen Liwen was appointed commander-in-chief of the joint operation. At a 3 PM briefing, Director Lin detailed the challenges of the terrain and the heavily armed nature of the foreign syndicate.

Chen Liwen issued three orders: complete deployment around Guangmang Mountain by 6 PM for an immediate assault, synchronize with cross-border and Hong Kong police, and seal all of Yunhe's borders to ensure no one escaped. Wu Zhenfeng entered the country via a remote path with Bones and quickly subdued him. He called Chen Liwen, offering to share the lab's location, but was told Chen Yu had already sent it and that his mission was over.

Learning the police were still an hour away, Wu Zhenfeng argued that Chen Yu couldn't hold out alone. He insisted that his knowledge of the Mengka syndicate would allow him to support Chen Yu and stall for time. Despite Chen Liwen's firm orders to retreat and observe from a distance, Wu Zhenfeng ignored the directive and headed for the tea factory. Inside the factory, a joint police operation was set in motion.

As a drone provided surveillance, Hong Kong police confirmed that Zhuo was wiring money to Li Yiqiong of Mengka, greenlighting a simultaneous cross-border arrest. While police raided the Mengka stronghold and apprehended Li Yiqiong, assault teams at the tea factory quietly swept through the sentry posts and surrounded the facility. As the raid began, Wu Zhenfeng arrived holding Bones captive.

Chen Yu subdued Erliang and confronted Yang Xingquan, revealing his identity as a police officer and declaring that the drug formula was fake. As gunfire erupted outside, a stunned Yang Xingquan realized he was trapped. Yu Miao, obsessively examining the fake drugs, was apprehended by the SWAT team. Bones and Erliang broke free and opened fire on Wu Zhenfeng and Chen Yu, who fought back together, managing to break through the encirclement.

A disoriented Yang Xingquan emerged from the factory to find Yang Ling calmly preparing tea. She offered him a final cup, and he realized she had known about Chen Yu's identity all along. With tears in her eyes, she confronted him about the life of crime he had forced upon her. At that moment, Lin Dezan arrived. Yang Xingquan defiantly accused Lin Dezan of using him in the past to cover up his own crimes.

Lin Dezan retorted that Yang Xingquan's downfall was not caused by drugs, but by the insatiable greed that had unleashed his inner evil. As Yang Xingquan was arrested, Lin Dezan turned to a weeping Yang Ling and told her that from now on, she should call him "Dad." Amidst the fierce gunfight, Wu Zhenfeng was shot and collapsed. Chen Yu rushed to his side, desperately trying to stop the bleeding as a call for an ambulance went out.

A struggling Wu Zhenfeng told Chen Yu he looked handsome in a police uniform, and Chen Yu tearfully promised to wear it for him if he survived. Hoisting Wu Zhenfeng onto his back, Chen Yu carried him toward safety, desperately urging him to stay awake. Through this arduous struggle, all involved drug traffickers were apprehended and brought to justice.