Resumen, trama, sinopsis de love & crown

Sinopsis de Love & Crown

Ling Cangcang, a chivalrous heroine known for her fierce sense of justice and extraordinary martial arts, founds the Fenglai Pavilion, a sect dedicated to helping the oppressed. Xiao Huan, the young emperor of the Nanqi Dynasty, is deeply committed to the welfare of his people.

However, the Grand Chancellor, in collusion with powerful factions from the martial world, has seized control of the court and is wreaking havoc upon the nation. In order to save his people, Xiao Huan assumes the alias "Bai Chifan" and sets out to investigate the situation firsthand.

During his journey, he encounters Ling Cangcang, and the two become close allies. Yet, unbeknownst to him, she is the daughter of the Grand Chancellor and his future empress. As turmoil sweeps across the land and the people suffer, Xiao Huan and Ling Cangcang join forces to quell the chaos, relieve disasters, and punish the corrupt.

In their efforts to bring peace and justice to the world, they also rediscover their true calling—to shoulder the burdens of righteousness, serve the people with passion, and ensure peace across the land so that all may live in harmony.

Resúmenes de Love & Crown

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5
• 6
• 7
• 8
• 9
• 10
• 11
• 12
• 13
• 14
• 15
• 16
• 17
• 18
• 19
• 20
• 21
• 22
• 23
• 24
• 25
• 26
• 27
• 28
• 29
• 30
• 31
• 32
• 33
• 34
• 35

Xiao Huan arrived to meet Ling Cangcang, acknowledging her summons was regarding her master's death. She confronted him, demanding an explanation, but he stated he had his reasons, which he could not disclose. Ling Cangcang, holding a sword, moved to strike him, but Xiao Huan stood firm, dismissed his guards, and remarked that she lacked the ruthlessness needed for such an act.

He then announced his intention to marry her and make her his empress in two months, telling her to prepare for their wedding. He attempted to touch her, but she recoiled, expressing her disbelief that she could marry a murderer. Xiao Huan simply told her she had no choice. Returning to Ling Manor, Ling Cangcang firmly told her father, Ling Xuefeng, that she would never marry Xiao Huan.

Ling Xuefeng sternly reminded her that an imperial decree was not to be defied, warning her of the dire consequences for their entire clan. He emphasized that despite his past assistance in Xiao Huan's ascension, the Emperor's current status made his will absolute. Ling Cangcang knelt, declaring she would rather die than marry him, unaware that her late master, Li Lu, had been using her, which was why Xiao Huan had him killed.

Overwhelmed with grief, she sought out her adoptive brother, Luo Xianxue, intending to escape and seek revenge. However, Xiao Huan intercepted them. Ling Xuefeng arrived shortly after, prostrating himself and pleading with Xiao Huan for his daughter's life. Xiao Huan observed Ling Cangcang's vehement refusal to marry him, seeing it as naive. He asserted that his decisions were unchangeable. Luo Xianxue, holding Ling Cangcang's hand, prepared to fight, unaware of the Emperor's intense gaze fixed on their clasped hands.

Xiao Huan openly warned Luo Xianxue, reminding him of a past warning in Southern Chu against futile escape attempts. Luo Xianxue apologized to Ling Xuefeng before attempting to attack Xiao Huan, but he was no match. When Ling Cangcang threatened to take her own life, Xiao Huan countered by threatening the extermination of the entire Ling clan. Seeing her father's visibly aged and distressed state, still pleading for her, Ling Cangcang relented.

She tearfully declared her willingness to marry Xiao Huan if he would spare her family and Luo Xianxue. Xiao Huan questioned her sincerity but ultimately accepted her "willing" pledge. He then instructed Hongqing to take Luo Xianxue to the palace as a witness to Ling Cangcang's vow. Xiao Huan then confronted Ling Xuefeng, revealing his awareness of the Grand Tutor's manipulation.

He accused Ling Xuefeng of orchestrating the events to make Ling Cangcang appear to marry him willingly, thereby preserving Ling Xuefeng's image as a benevolent father while casting Xiao Huan as a ruthless villain. Ling Xuefeng simply responded by asking if the Emperor was not satisfied with having achieved his desires. Meanwhile, the Imperial Preceptor Du Tingxin, engaged in the critical stage of pill refinement, dismissed the upcoming wedding as a "worldly affair" and declined to attend.

Ling Cangcang was forced to proceed with the grand wedding. During the ceremony, she refused to hold Xiao Huan's hand, but he subtly threatened her by mentioning Luo Xianxue's situation, compelling her to maintain a facade of compliance. Later, in their chambers, she resisted drinking the nuptial wine. Xiao Huan, consumed by jealousy, questioned her love for Luo Xianxue and again threatened his life.

Ling Cangcang defiantly admitted her love for Luo Xianxue, stating she would have fled with him if she had the choice and would not live without him. Xiao Huan dismissed her death threat, claiming it would only work if he cared, and reminded her of his threat to her clan. Alone, Ling Cangcang looked into a mirror, murmuring the name "Bai Chifan" and lamenting that he "does not exist" and had lied to her.

The next morning, Xiao Huan visited, informing her that Luo Xianxue had been returned to the Ling Manor, which brought her a moment of relief. However, he then presented her with a small box containing Luo Xianxue's severed finger, warning her that there were rules she must obey and a price to pay for defiance.

He then forcibly adorned her hair with the pear blossom hairpin he had given her, reminding her that she wore it when she attempted to escape with Luo Xianxue, emphasizing her duties as his Empress. One year prior, during a court session, Emperor Xiao Huan expressed concern over the disappearance of over a hundred young boys in Southern Chu.

However, he faced opposition from ministers led by Grand Tutor Ling Xuefeng, who defended the Prince of Yuzhang and questioned the Emperor's authority, citing his youth and lack of personal governance. Xiao Huan's subordinate noted that Ling Xuefeng had promised the Emperor would gain full power after marrying Ling Cangcang, yet he continuously delayed and protected the Prince, leading them to suspect Ling Xuefeng intended to sabotage the marriage.

Feeling constrained and aware of spies in the palace, Xiao Huan realized he needed to find someone to break this deadlock. He learned Ling Cangcang was in Southern Chu. While initially puzzled by Ling Xuefeng's apparent lack of concern for his daughter's safety, he understood when he observed Luo Xianxue, known as Southern Chu's Top Swordsman, along with the skilled fighter Zhong Lin, accompanying her at the Fenglai Pavilion. Xiao Huan noted that Ling Cangcang seemed different from her father.

Xiao Huan adopted the identity of Bai Chifan and attempted to join Fenglai Pavilion, which was recruiting a new hall master. Ling Cangcang, the Pavilion Master, immediately sensed he was no ordinary fighter and suspected he was a spy sent by her father. She rejected his application, calling him "fine on the outside but rotten within," leading Bai Chifan to challenge her judgment and the reputation of her pavilion.

Meanwhile, Empress Dowager Liu learned of Xiao Huan's presence in Southern Chu, suspecting he was pursuing Ling Cangcang. She sent orders to the Ninth Prince, Xiao Qianqing, to win Ling Cangcang's favor and, covertly, to ensure Xiao Huan never returned. However, Xiao Qianqing, who preferred to avoid entanglements with the Emperor, instructed his attendants to ignore Ling Cangcang if she appeared. Ling Cangcang, needing a specific outfit for a plan, visited a tailor shop.

She learned that the Prince of Yuzhang had ordered a casual outfit but never collected it. She arranged to take it, intending for Luo Xianxue to wear it. Luo Xianxue reluctantly tried on the princely attire, with Ling Cangcang encouraging him about his role in their plan. Bai Chifan reappeared, attempting to buy the outfit, and offered it to Ling Cangcang in exchange for entry into Fenglai Pavilion. Ling Cangcang refused, stating there were other tailor shops.

She then questioned his insistence on joining her pavilion. He responded that he was "born defiant" and "never accepted defeat," a trait Ling Cangcang wryly claimed to share. Later, Xiao Huan learned from a subordinate that Zhong Lin was frequently visiting a mine in Southern Chu. Realizing her ambitions extended beyond the pavilion, he instructed his man, Shi Yan, to investigate everything about the mine, pondering Ling Cangcang's true desires.

Ling Cangcang visited her Master, who offered her pear blossom honey and questioned her prolonged absence from Sword Cottage. Ling Cangcang revealed that a mine had recently yielded rare iron ore, a unique metal for forging swords, which she believed would bring great renown to whoever acquired it. Her Master reminded her of her destiny as Empress, but Ling Cangcang reiterated her disinterest in the title, expressing her wish to "win someone's heart and roam the world with her sword."

Her Master, acknowledging the world's unpredictability, wished her lasting joy. Later, with the Prince's attire secured, Zhong Lin observed that Luo Xianxue still lacked the Prince of Yuzhang's noble bearing. Ling Cangcang agreed and coached him on his posture. The plan continued with Ling Cangcang disguising herself as a tattoo artist to meet Xiao Qianqing, who desired a magnificent peacock tattoo to deter marriage proposals.

During the session, Ling Cangcang deliberately prolonged the process, and under the guise of needing a paperweight, she sent Xiao Qianqing's attendant away, allowing Zhong Lin to discreetly acquire an impression of a seal from a golden embroidered box. When Xiao Qianqing complained about the pain, Ling Cangcang, in a moment of playful mischief, tattooed an ugly bird instead of a peacock.

After Ling Cangcang and Zhong Lin quickly departed, Xiao Qianqing examined his back and realized he had been tricked, furiously ordering his men to find them. As Ling Cangcang and Zhong Lin left, a child approached with flowers, and she recognized the sender, muttering, "Him again?" referring to Bai Chifan.

Prince Xiao Qianqing discovered an unexpected bird tattooed on his back. His subordinates were terrified, but Xiao Qianqing, rather than blaming them, shrewdly analyzed that the perpetrators had a clear motive beyond mere humiliation. He threatened his men with severe punishment, including broken legs and being fed to hounds, unless they could recreate the scene and uncover the true reason behind the act.

Meanwhile, Ling Cangcang meticulously examined a newly acquired jade, prompting Bai Chifan to reveal his surprising knowledge of its origins and significance—Wuxi green jade, often used for royal seals, and featuring a "four claws that subdue evil" motif. Ling Cangcang grew suspicious of his vast knowledge and found his name, Bai Chifan, an obvious alias. Bai Chifan claimed he came from an extremely wealthy family, the Bai clan of Xiling, forcing him to keep a low profile.

He described his family as a once-renowned martial arts clan that transitioned to commerce. Ling Cangcang challenged his understanding of the martial world, considering his supposedly spoiled background. Bai Chifan eloquently countered, defining the martial world by diverse aspirations but united by the shared will to wield a sword. Intrigued, Ling Cangcang dared him to guess her current objective.

Bai Chifan accurately deduced her plan to impersonate the Prince of Yuzhang using expensive robes, a thumb ring, and a forged royal seal, and warned her that the Prince of Yuzhang was more perceptive than he appeared and might have already discovered their deception. Despite her admiration, Ling Cangcang decided Bai Chifan knew too much. She ordered Zhong Lin to investigate the Bai clan of Xiling and then had Bai Chifan knocked unconscious.

Shortly after, Luo Xianxue received an urgent message instructing him to return to the capital, raising concerns that Ling Cangcang's pursuit of Frostflame Iron might involve unforeseen complications. Luo Xianxue informed Ling Cangcang of his immediate departure, explaining the urgency of the matter. Though initially reluctant, Ling Cangcang understood and let him go, realizing this left her without a partner to impersonate the Prince of Yuzhang and jeopardized her entire plan. Facing a dire situation, Ling Cangcang reconsidered Bai Chifan.

She had previously suspected him of being a spy sent by her father to control her, but his unyielding composure under threat convinced her otherwise. She ordered his release and invited him to join her in impersonating the Prince of Yuzhang to acquire the Frostflame Iron. Bai Chifan accepted but sought to understand the full scope of the mission.

Ling Cangcang explained the legendary properties of Frostflame Iron: a rare material said to forge indestructible divine weapons, recently discovered in Southern Chu. She believed that posing as the Prince of Yuzhang would ensure its easy acquisition. Bai Chifan, however, found her belief naive, questioning if mere weapons could truly dominate the martial world, to which Ling Cangcang maintained that the sharpest blade dictates power in the martial arts realm.

Meanwhile, Ling Xuefeng confronted Luo Xianxue, urging him to abandon any inappropriate affections for Ling Cangcang and to focus on his duties, reminding him that Ling Cangcang was destined to become the Empress. Luo Xianxue reported Ling Cangcang's interest in the Frostflame Iron, but presented her as self-reliant. Ling Xuefeng remained unconvinced, sensing deeper motives.

He pressed Luo Xianxue about Bai Chifan, whom Luo Xianxue dismissed as a persistent suitor Ling Cangcang didn't take seriously, even believing him to be Ling Xuefeng's own agent. Ling Xuefeng then ordered Luo Xianxue to return to Southern Chu immediately to protect Ling Cangcang and report her every action. In a late-night meeting, Shi Yan, leader of the Xiao Xingying, reported to Emperor Xiao Huan on the iron quarry in Southern Chu.

He detailed its illicit operations: ostensibly a mining and smelting facility, it was in fact a monopoly that forcibly abducted citizens, predominantly young boys (over a hundred missing), to work as enslaved miners and illegally forge weapons, leading to numerous fatalities. This explained the local rumors of "ghosts kidnapping children." Shi Yan confirmed the Lingbi Sect controlled the quarry, with Grand Tutor Ling Xuefeng as its mastermind. Xiao Huan realized Ling Cangcang was unknowingly targeting her own father's clandestine enterprise.

He surmised that Luo Xianxue's sudden return to the capital was likely due to his discovery of Xiao Huan's movements. Xiao Huan resolved to not only bring Ling Cangcang back but also to dismantle the Lingbi Sect, thereby cutting off Ling Xuefeng's power base and solidifying his marriage and imperial authority. He instructed Shi Yan to assist Ling Cangcang in her mission to hasten these developments.

Prince Xiao Qianqing received intelligence about the impersonation and the pursuit of Frostflame Iron, sending his forces to the quarry with a stern warning to his subordinate about the accuracy of the information. At the quarry, a foreman callously instructed his men to underfeed the enslaved young boys, telling them to drink water instead of eating, despite their deteriorating health and recent deaths. He cited the "Ghost King's" urgent demands for production.

Ling Cangcang and Bai Chifan, expertly disguised as the Prince of Yuzhang and his attendant, arrived. The quarry owner initially feigned subservience and offered the Frostflame Iron, but his gaze sharpened as he subtly questioned the "Prince's" authenticity. Bai Chifan presented the forged royal seal. The owner, after examining the jade and its accurate form, led them to the iron.

However, while inspecting the iron's ornate storage box, the owner noticed a critical flaw in the forged seal: it depicted five claws instead of the four traditionally associated with the Prince of Yuzhang, exposing their deception. A fierce battle erupted. Bai Chifan shielded Ling Cangcang as Shi Yan's forces, acting on Xiao Huan's orders, created a diversion by blowing up a tunnel and releasing the enslaved miners, revealing Ling Cangcang's true purpose was rescue, not theft.

The quarry boss, realizing he had been outwitted by a diversion, raged in fury. Ling Cangcang urged Bai Chifan to escape while she covered him, but Bai Chifan insisted on protecting her. The quarry boss then deployed a potent poisonous smoke, debilitating them. He demanded their true identities before offering a slim chance of survival. Despite the poison and their injuries, they fought valiantly.

Ling Cangcang was severely wounded, but Bai Chifan, after giving her a life-saving pill, fought with renewed ferocity, sensing the boss's intent to kill. Ling Cangcang, despite her pain, also retaliated, further injuring the boss. Suddenly, an unknown assailant swiftly killed the quarry boss. Prince Xiao Qianqing arrived shortly after, apprehending Ling Cangcang and her group.

Before being fully subdued, Bai Chifan quickly confirmed Ling Cangcang's intention: she was there purely to rescue the child slaves, finally dispelling his lingering doubts about her. In the aftermath, Ling Cangcang, now a captive, offered an apology to Xiao Qianqing. Xiao Qianqing, recognizing Bai Chifan as Emperor Xiao Huan, was struck by the Emperor's willingness to humble himself for Ling Cangcang's sake. He chose not to reveal Xiao Huan's true identity.

The two brothers, long estranged by mutual suspicion, were left in an awkward truce; their conflict stemmed from an incident where Xiao Qianqing had asked for their father's military map as a memento, which Xiao Huan misinterpreted as a sign that he still coveted the throne. Seeing Xiao Huan (as Bai Chifan) show such deference for Ling Cangcang, Xiao Qianqing decided to keep them both for dinner.

During the meal, Xiao Qianqing observed Bai Chifan's attentive care towards Ling Cangcang, cautioning her against cold food and offering her warm pear soup. When Xiao Qianqing asked for her name, Ling Cangcang, aware of his identity as Prince of Yuzhang and her own engagement, avoided revealing her true identity and was introduced under the alias of Zhong Lin, the Vice Sect Leader of Fenglai Pavilion. Xiao Qianqing, however, easily deduced that she was Ling Cangcang and suspected his brother Xiao Huan's presence was solely due to his interest in her.

During a meal, Xiao Qianqing observed Bai Chifan's unusual attentiveness toward Ling Cangcang, leading him to deduce her true identity. Ling Cangcang, ravenously eating, remained oblivious to the tense atmosphere. Seeking to provoke Xiao Huan, Xiao Qianqing flirtatiously declared his admiration for Ling Cangcang and proposed a partnership. Ling Cangcang, unimpressed, suggested he direct his affections toward the Vice Sect Leader, Zhong Lin, humorously reminding him that she was the one who had "tattooed" him earlier.

Xiao Qianqing grimaced, recalling Zhong Lin's clumsy needlework. He then challenged Bai Chifan to perform a sword dance, expecting refusal, but to his surprise, Bai Chifan readily agreed, seemingly for Ling Cangcang's benefit. Xiao Qianqing joined the sword display, leading to a tense confrontation where Xiao Huan, still disguised as Bai Chifan, tore Xiao Qianqing's clothes. Ling Cangcang noted the dangerous intensity of their moves.

During their confrontation, Bai Chifan accused Xiao Qianqing of overreacting, suggesting his aggression stemmed from the Emperor's discovery of corruption within his domain—a hint Xiao Qianqing failed to grasp. Later, Xiao Huan subtly informed Xiao Qianqing that the mine incident was the Lingbi Sect's doing and requested his assistance in the investigation. Xiao Qianqing agreed, hinting that he might ask for a favor in return.

Meanwhile, Luo Xianxue awoke severely injured and immediately inquired about Ling Cangcang, feeling relieved only upon learning she was safe. A masked figure informed Luo Xianxue that the Lingbi Sect had suffered significant losses from the mine's closure, displeasing the Grand Tutor. The masked figure also warned Luo Xianxue that "that man" might exploit Ling Cangcang, urging him to prioritize his recovery and allow the situation to be handled.

Elsewhere, Shi Yan questioned Xiao Huan, noting that his cold poison had flared up despite Imperial Preceptor Du's suppressive medicine. Xiao Huan revealed he had given his last dose to Ling Cangcang. He also updated Shi Yan on the missing miners, whose numbers still didn't match the deceased, suggesting a deeper mystery and the Lingbi Sect's growing power. Xiao Huan then assigned Shi Yan a new mission: to strengthen Fenglai Pavilion.

Ling Cangcang approached Bai Chifan, now promoted to Hall Master, who subtly reminded her of her previous suspicions. Ling Cangcang openly apologized for doubting him as her father's spy and for tricking him into posing as the Prince of Yuzhang, which led to his injury and imprisonment. She vowed to consider him a brother-in-arms and never to doubt him again.

Bai Chifan, reviewing the sect's books, revealed a significant deficit, but Ling Cangcang lightheartedly suggested stealing more antiques from her father to cover the losses, assuring Bai Chifan that Fenglai Pavilion was not short on money, and now they had him. Soon after, a large number of recruits arrived, all eager to join Fenglai Pavilion.

Zhong Lin, witnessing Ling Cangcang's newfound trust and affection for Bai Chifan, questioned what had happened, jokingly asking if Ling Cangcang intended to repay him with her heart. Ling Cangcang's description of Bai Chifan as having a "duplicitous danger" and "fatal charm" hinted at her growing feelings. Ling Cangcang brushed aside Zhong Lin's concerns about Bai Chifan's recruits, stating her full trust in him.

Among the new recruits was Shi Yan, who introduced himself as a skilled blade master specializing in the 72 Kunlun Swift Strikes, and was promptly accepted by Ling Cangcang. Ling Cangcang spoke to her Master about her success in dismantling the iron mine and rescuing the children, explaining that the Lingbi Sect was turning children into stone-like creatures, indicating a larger conspiracy.

Her Master, however, warned her about Bai Chifan, suggesting his identity was fake, his motives impure, and his ambition rivaled the Ghost King's. He urged her to keep her distance. Ling Cangcang admitted she already knew about Bai Chifan's false identity but defended him, stating that everyone has secrets and she was willing to wait for him to open up, just as she kept her own identity from him.

Her Master cautioned her that Bai Chifan's intentions might be related to her other identity as the Grand Tutor's daughter, not just the Sect Leader of Fenglai Pavilion. He reminded her that only her father truly cared for her without reservation, and even her Master was not entirely trustworthy. Despite Ling Cangcang's heartfelt belief in her Master, he insisted she maintain a distance from Bai Chifan.

Later, Ling Cangcang invited Bai Chifan to celebrate with two jars of fine Sangluo Wine, asking if it reminded him of his hometown, specifically the Bai clan of Xiling, to test his true identity. Bai Chifan acknowledged her realization and urged for straightforwardness between friends. Ling Cangcang admitted she still didn't know his true identity, and Bai Chifan countered that he too had secrets he could not reveal. They agreed they were "not so different after all."

Ling Cangcang then mentioned that someone she trusted had warned her about his intentions. Bai Chifan defended himself, asking if he had ever harmed her or Fenglai Pavilion, and reiterated, "As distance tests a horse's strength, time reveals a person's heart." Just as he spoke, masked assassins attacked them. Bai Chifan valiantly protected Ling Cangcang, sustaining severe injuries, leaving her distraught. A physician examined Bai Chifan, bewildered by his complex pulse.

He revealed that Bai Chifan suffered from a severe, decade-long cold poison that had invaded his internal organs, kept at bay only by his martial arts and regular antidotes. Ling Cangcang discovered that Bai Chifan had given her his last antidote when she was injured. Distraught, she sent Zhong Lin to retrieve another antidote from Shi Yan, who was with the Imperial Preceptor.

While Bai Chifan was unconscious, Ling Cangcang tearfully expressed her regret for doubting him, realizing how foolish she had been after all his sacrifices to save her. When Bai Chifan finally awoke, he teased Ling Cangcang about crying over him, recounting a dream of seeing her tear-streaked face at death's door. Ling Cangcang, embarrassed, stammered that she was just scared. He comforted her, reassuring her that he was not easily killed.

Ling Cangcang then accidentally kissed Bai Chifan while reaching for him, causing her to quickly retreat, feigning dizziness and illness. Meanwhile, Luo Xianxue expressed his determination to take Ling Cangcang to the Capital, fearing her naivete would lead to her exploitation. However, the masked figure, acting on behalf of Ling Cangcang's Master, reminded Luo Xianxue to prioritize the larger mission concerning the Lingbi Sect, subtly questioning if his concern for Ling Cangcang was for their adoptive father or for himself.

Separately, Xiao Qianqing, learning about the assassins originating from the Prince of Yuzhang's Manor (his own residence), grew furious and demanded answers. Bai Chifan sent a message to Xiao Qianqing with a crucial lead: the "Botang Pleasure Boat." Xiao Huan, after recovering from his cold poison relapse, also received this clue and decided to investigate the mysterious boat where rare items were auctioned and a special invitation was required.

Bai Chifan, noticing Ling Cangcang's altered demeanor and heightened shyness, suggested they go out for fresh air. He brought her to the Botang Pleasure Boat, disguised as a married couple, explaining that he suspected many of the missing miners had been sold there. They entered the Green Haitang Chamber, where the staff, noticing the green haitang blossom on Bai Chifan's fan, mistook him for someone seeking treatment for impotence.

Ling Cangcang played along, dramatically declaring her unwavering love for her "frail" husband. She then questioned if there were other "Haitang" chambers (red, yellow, blue) that could help her husband since ordinary medicine was useless. When the staff threatened to throw them overboard for not making a purchase, Ling Cangcang, unwilling to leave empty-handed, convinced Bai Chifan to buy a fortune in medicine from the Green Haitang Chamber. Satisfied, the staff then led them further into the boat.

Ling Cangcang and Bai Chifan arrived at the Botang Pleasure Boat with an invitation. Ling Cangcang, determined to find useful information after spending heavily, was noted by the boat's owner. The owner, recognizing her as "one of them" from the "Willow wind, haitang moon" secret code, granted them special entry to the Green Haitang Chamber. A blind auction was in progress.

The rules stated that participants had three haitang flowers for three bidding chances, with failure to pay resulting in being thrown into the sea to feed the fish. Bai Chifan, seated in the privileged Golden Haitang Chamber, did not need to throw flowers but was still limited to three bids. He shocked everyone, including Ling Cangcang, by bidding extraordinarily high amounts for medicine.

He ultimately offered two fluorite night pearls, described as fine tributes from the Western Sea, to win the auction. While Ling Cangcang was away, Xiao Qianqing confronted Bai Chifan, who was secretly Emperor Xiao Huan. Xiao Huan accused his brother of orchestrating an assassination attempt shortly after learning of his arrival, seeing it as a political maneuver for the throne. Xiao Qianqing was enraged by the accusation.

Xiao Huan retorted by suggesting Xiao Qianqing's mother was behind the assassination, asserting that in Xiao Huan's experience, his brother always let their mother take the blame. The brothers drew their swords, engaging in a dangerous fight until Ling Cangcang intervened, stopping their conflict. Following the intense confrontation, Ling Cangcang and Xiao Huan ventured into the back of the boat, where they uncovered a human trafficking operation. Remembering Xiao Huan's previous plans, Ling Cangcang took action.

While Xiao Huan distracted the captors, she swiftly released the imprisoned children. Once the children were safe, she returned to fight side-by-side with him against the traffickers. Overwhelmed, the traffickers chanted a death oath and detonated explosives that tore through the pleasure boat. In a desperate moment, Xiao Huan shielded Ling Cangcang from the fatal blast, and they plunged into the lake. Underwater, Xiao Huan fell into a coma and suffered vivid nightmares.

In his dream, he was mocked for his ambition to reclaim the power he had once willingly relinquished. Waking from the nightmare, Xiao Huan's first conscious act was to grasp Ling Cangcang's hand and ask her to marry him. Just then, Luo Xianxue arrived, interrupting the proposal. Unfazed, Xiao Huan openly declared his deep affection for Ling Cangcang and his desire to take her as his wife, right in front of Luo Xianxue.

Ling Cangcang, firm in her belief that Xiao Huan was not a bad person, defended him against Luo Xianxue's accusations of manipulation and deceit, stating she could discern genuine intentions from a ruse. When Luo Xianxue asked if she had feelings for Xiao Huan, Ling Cangcang did not answer directly but requested three days to resolve her affairs before returning to the capital, insisting that Luo Xianxue must not harm Xiao Huan.

Xiao Qianqing, still frustrated by his brother's mistrust, presented Xiao Huan with a gift: Frostflame Iron. He stated this was his wedding gift and a gesture to prove his sincerity. He obtained it from the Prince of Yuzhang and reminded Xiao Huan of the two times he had saved his life, implying a debt was owed. Later, Xiao Huan explained to Ling Cangcang that he wanted her father's and master's approval for their marriage.

Ling Cangcang confided in Xiao Huan about her childhood, explaining her empathy for the trafficked children. She recounted how her father, often away on official duties, made her feel lonely. One day, she secretly followed him, only to be captured and kidnapped. It was her master who rescued her and brought her back to her father.

Her master later revealed his own daughter had suffered a similar fate and was never found, a tragedy that prompted Ling Cangcang to dedicate herself to treating him like her own father. Xiao Huan accompanied Ling Cangcang to meet her master. Prior to Ling Cangcang's arrival, Xiao Huan and her master, who was secretly the Ghost King, had a tense private exchange.

The Ghost King, quoting Grand Tutor Ling, subtly disparaged Xiao Huan, likening him to a "wolf pup" who was actually a "wolf." Their animosity was concealed the moment Ling Cangcang appeared. The Master, adopting the persona of a humble "farmer," deferred to Ling Cangcang's father regarding her marriage decisions. He then shifted the conversation to sword-making, expressing eagerness to receive the Frostflame Iron. Later that night, Xiao Huan and the Ghost King met again in secret.

Xiao Huan revealed his knowledge of the Ghost King's tragic past, specifically his deceased daughter and the deep meaning behind the sword name "Yangliufeng" and the "haitang blossoms" on Ling Cangcang's pendant, which he correctly deduced was his daughter's relic. Xiao Huan accused the Ghost King of manipulating Ling Cangcang. The Ghost King, however, claimed to be a mere "puppet" bound by circumstances, acting solely out of vengeance and gratitude, not malice.

He then expressed a profound desire to die, directly provoking Xiao Huan to kill him quickly. In return for his compliance, Xiao Huan promised to conceal the truth about the Ghost King's identity from Ling Cangcang. Ling Cangcang later found the exquisite sword her master had crafted, which she affectionately named "Yangliufeng." Her master then presented Xiao Huan with a sword he named "Wangfeng," declaring both as wedding gifts for them. Ling Cangcang, unaware of the sinister undertones, was overjoyed.

Moments later, however, she stumbled upon Xiao Huan in the process of killing her master. Devastated and repeatedly calling out for her master, she demanded to know why. Xiao Huan remained silent, offering no explanation. Overwhelmed by grief and betrayal, Ling Cangcang's love turned to intense hatred. In a later confrontation, now as Empress, she questioned her own identity—was she Ling Cangcang or the Empress of Great Qi?

She declared that "Bai Chifan" no longer existed, signifying the death of her trust and affection. The next morning, Emperor Xiao Huan, finding Empress Ling Cangcang awake, expressed his happiness. Ling Cangcang, however, harbored a deep resentment towards him, seeing his actions as manipulative and his kindness as disingenuous, particularly after he had killed her master. Xiao Huan urged her to look to the future and consider the living.

When Ling Cangcang expressed a desire to visit her family home alone for the traditional newlywed visit, Xiao Huan, aware of palace rumors circulating about their unconsummated marriage and the Empress being a political pawn, insisted on accompanying her to show his commitment. He presented her with a painting, a wedding gift from General Ling Jueding. Ling Cangcang, testing him, suggested moving Ling Jueding to a less arduous post in the capital so he could be closer to his family.

Xiao Huan deftly countered that a soldier like Ling Jueding would not desire a sedentary life, to which Ling Cangcang strategically agreed. Seeing her compliance, Xiao Huan agreed to wait for her outside her chambers. After a moment of poignant eye contact, they departed together for the Ling Manor.

When Empress Ling Cangcang and Emperor Xiao Huan returned to the Ling residence for their traditional visit, Ling Xuefeng immediately bowed deeply in greeting to the Emperor and Empress. Ling Cangcang, uncomfortable with her father's deference, tried to stop him, remarking that she wasn't used to such formality. However, Xiao Huan countered that as Empress, she would encounter such rituals frequently and would eventually grow accustomed to them.

Xiao Huan then inquired about Luo Xianxue, subtly hinting that Ling Cangcang was concerned about his injuries. Ling Cangcang openly admitted her concern, challenging Xiao Huan by asking if he would dare forbid her from visiting Luo Xianxue. Xiao Huan granted her permission. Ling Xuefeng, observing their exchange, awkwardly apologized to the Emperor for his daughter's habitual willfulness. Xiao Huan then expressed his desire to taste Ling Xuefeng's renowned tea.

Ling Cangcang hurried to see Luo Xianxue, who was recuperating from his injuries. Luo Xianxue greeted her formally as Empress, but Ling Cangcang, seeing him as family, asked him to drop the formality. She expressed remorse, blaming herself for his injury, but Luo Xianxue reassured her, stating that her betrothal to the Emperor was long set and the fault lay with Xiao Huan for killing her master.

Ling Cangcang then tearfully asked what Xiao Huan had done to him, referring to his injured hand. Luo Xianxue urged her to accept her role as Empress for the sake of their father, Ling Xuefeng, who was aging and in conflict with Empress Dowager Liu. He stressed that only by being a good Empress and gaining the Emperor's favor to secure the Phoenix Seal could she ease their father's burdens and survive the inner palace.

Ling Cangcang, still consumed by hatred for Xiao Huan for her master's death and Luo Xianxue's injury, confessed her desire to kill him. Despite her anger, she eventually promised to take care of herself in the palace. She then asked Luo Xianxue to help her set up a spirit tablet for her deceased master. Luo Xianxue, having anticipated her request, informed her that he was already looking for a suitable mausoleum.

While sharing tea, Ling Xuefeng expressed his gratification at Xiao Huan accompanying Ling Cangcang home. Xiao Huan then turned serious, revealing the existence of the Lingbi Sect, a heretical group backed by court officials, responsible for assassinating powerful figures. He presented proof that Li Lu, Ling Cangcang's deceased master, was the sect's secret leader, thus casting suspicion on Ling Xuefeng's own involvement.

Ling Xuefeng denied any knowledge of Li Lu's true identity, claiming he only knew him as a martial arts master who saved and trained Ling Cangcang. Xiao Huan then questioned if Ling Xuefeng believed his act of cutting off Luo Xianxue's finger was merely out of jealousy, hinting at deeper motives. Ling Xuefeng, understanding the implication, acknowledged Xiao Huan's "painstaking care" for Ling Cangcang.

Xiao Huan also mentioned his intention to implement a new talent recommendation system, which Ling Xuefeng readily supported, promising full cooperation if it benefited Great Qi. After Xiao Huan left, Ling Xuefeng confided in Luo Xianxue, lamenting that Ling Cangcang, though pure-hearted and fiercely principled, needed to mature now that she was Empress. Luo Xianxue confirmed he had conveyed Ling Xuefeng's instructions to Ling Cangcang but voiced his apprehension, knowing her lingering resentment towards the Emperor over Li Lu's death.

Ling Xuefeng reiterated that his actions were for Ling Cangcang's benefit. He revealed that Xiao Huan suffered from a chronic cold sickness and urged Luo Xianxue to encourage Ling Cangcang to bear a royal heir quickly, as this would solidify her position and provide security in the palace. He called this her destined path, and their role was merely to make it smoother and longer.

Ling Xuefeng instructed Luo Xianxue to honor Ling Cangcang's request to set up a spirit tablet for Li Lu but strictly forbade him from revealing that Li Lu was, in fact, the Ghost King. When Luo Xianxue expressed doubt about Ling Cangcang's willingness to let go, Ling Xuefeng insisted that her soft heart would ultimately prioritize the Ling family, and she needed to move forward.

That night, Ling Cangcang received a message via carrier pigeon and secretly left the palace to pay respects to her master. Xiao Huan was aware of her movements but instructed his subordinates not to disturb her, confident she would return. At the mausoleum, Ling Cangcang poured wine and lamented her inability to visit her master's actual grave, instead setting up a spirit tablet.

Luo Xianxue, who was also present, tried to console her, suggesting Xiao Huan might have had his reasons. Ling Cangcang vehemently rejected this, unable to comprehend why such a benevolent master, who was unmatched in skill and wished only for her happiness, would be killed, especially by someone he never spoke of.

Despite Luo Xianxue urging her to let go, Ling Cangcang reaffirmed her resolve to use her position as Empress to protect her family and, most importantly, to uncover the truth behind her master's death, vowing to avenge him once she knew. Shi Yan reported to Xiao Huan that Ling Cangcang had returned to Linghe Hall in good spirits after visiting her master's spirit tablet. Shi Yan questioned why Xiao Huan kept the truth from Ling Cangcang.

Xiao Huan explained he preferred her hatred over her suffering the painful truth, especially since the matter was unresolved, and he didn't want her involved. Meanwhile, Ling Cangcang discovered her own Linghe Hall was cold and under-resourced, as the Emperor rarely visited. Determined to reclaim the Phoenix Seal, she went to visit Empress Dowager Liu, despite her maid's reservations.

Aunt Chan, Empress Dowager Liu's attendant, tried to turn Ling Cangcang away, claiming the Empress Dowager was napping and on a fasting regimen. Ling Cangcang, attempting to show filial piety by offering special cheese, insisted on waiting and then tried to enter, citing her duty as a daughter-in-law. When Aunt Chan ordered Ling Cangcang's maid to be punished for her mistress's perceived "improper deportment," Ling Cangcang intervened, striking an attendant in retaliation for her insolence.

Xiao Huan, who was nearby, observed the confrontation but did not interfere. Empress Dowager Liu then granted Ling Cangcang an audience, admonishing her for striking her attendant. Ling Cangcang cleverly twisted the narrative, claiming Aunt Chan had insulted the Empress Dowager by saying she was "fat" and needed to "fast." Empress Dowager Liu, seeing through the ploy but cornered by Ling Cangcang's public accusation, ordered Aunt Chan to be slapped.

Ling Cangcang, appearing satisfied, then requested the Phoenix Seal, citing her duty to manage the inner palace. Empress Dowager Liu refused, stating that Ling Cangcang's "conduct fell short" as the Emperor had not stayed in Linghe Hall, and her primary duty was to bear an heir. She emphasized that without an heir, Ling Cangcang's position as Empress would be unstable, and thus, the Phoenix Seal would remain with her until Ling Cangcang fulfilled her duties.

As Ling Cangcang left in anger, Empress Dowager Liu further provoked her by pointing out Xiao Huan's inaction during the altercation, advising her to "win back his favor." Ling Cangcang, frustrated, confided in her maid about her inability to "get around" Xiao Huan. Xiao Huan recalled a memory of giving a young Ling Cangcang a pear blossom hairpin and promising to take her to his pear orchard when the blossoms bloomed.

Learning from Shi Yan that Ling Cangcang was still holding this hairpin, Xiao Huan, wanting to cheer her, ordered his eunuch Hongqing to use warm frames to force the pear blossoms in Qinyuan Garden to bloom early, creating a "sea of white blossoms like snow." The miraculously bloomed pear garden delighted Ling Cangcang. However, upon Xiao Huan's arrival, she initially considered avoiding him but decided against it, realizing her precarious position in the palace required maintaining civility.

She feigned affection, recalling how the pear blossoms made her think of him and inviting him to her cold Linghe Hall that night. Xiao Huan, perceiving her overtures as manipulative, angrily retreated, feeling used. Later, he reflected on her invitation but ultimately did not go to her. Back in Wuying Hall, Xiao Huan faced strong opposition from court officials regarding his proposed talent recommendation system. Meanwhile, he instructed his eunuch Wufu to subtly remove Ling Cangcang's spies.

He was also seen taking new medicine from Preceptor Du, who insisted on observing him for symptoms of his cold sickness, cautioning against the pear blossom scent's potential ill effects. Preceptor Du also advised Xiao Huan to consider marrying Minister Xing's daughter to balance power, but Xiao Huan rejected any interference in his personal life, asserting that Ling Cangcang, while not his enemy, could not be his weakness.

Ling Cangcang, having waited fruitlessly all night for Xiao Huan, had just fallen asleep when Xiao Huan visited her in Linghe Hall. As he watched her, he expressed silent remorse, torn between his desire to protect her from a painful truth and the burden of her hatred. Ling Cangcang woke up as he was about to leave, confronting him about his aversion and then asking him to put on the pear blossom hairpin he had given her in their youth. She then invited him to share a drink, hoping it would reconcile them. Xiao Huan, unable to refuse her direct plea, accepted.

Ling Cangcang invited Xiao Huan for a drink, and despite knowing she had an agenda and had spiked the wine, he willingly walked into her trap. As he entered, Ling Cangcang offered him a cup. He observed her subtle tension, then drank it, asking what she had put in the liquor. Ling Cangcang, surprised, asked why he would drink it if he knew it was poisoned.

Xiao Huan revealed he had anticipated a potent venom, but it was merely a substance to trigger his cold sickness. He realized her intention was to make him stay the night, creating the appearance of imperial favor so she could later demand the Phoenix Seal from Empress Dowager Liu. He told her she was naive to think his overnight stay alone would be enough to sway the Empress Dowager.

Ling Cangcang insisted she needed the Phoenix Seal to navigate the palace. She reminded him that her father had aided him for years, and Empress Dowager Liu was their common enemy. With his pursuit of imperial power and her own goals, they could form an alliance. Xiao Huan questioned if she was truly willing to let go of past grievances, and she confirmed it.

Before he could press further, he heard the returning footsteps of a spy sent by Empress Dowager Liu. Quickly, Xiao Huan swept the items off the table, creating a scene that suggested he was furious with Ling Cangcang. Ling Cangcang understood Xiao Huan's act, knowing it would lead Empress Dowager Liu to believe she had fallen out of favor, thus lowering her guard.

Indeed, a spy later reported that His Majesty had lashed out at Ling Cangcang, even scolding Imperial Preceptor Du. This led Empress Dowager Liu to dismiss Ling Cangcang as a threat, concluding that a disfavored Empress was no enemy and would be too ashamed to ask for the Phoenix Seal. Soon after, an imperial decree declared Ling Cangcang confined to her palace to reflect upon herself for causing Xiao Huan's cold sickness to resurface.

Ling Xuefeng, upon hearing of his daughter's confinement, rushed to the palace. He outwardly accepted Xiao Huan's judgment, apologizing for Ling Cangcang's flippant behavior and promising to rein her in. Xiao Huan, however, revealed that Ling Cangcang had poisoned his drink. He stated that to avoid discord between them in the eyes of the court, he chose to present it as mere anger, rather than legal punishment.

Ling Xuefeng thanked Xiao Huan for his mercy, and Xiao Huan then asked for Ling Xuefeng's continued support in handling court affairs due to his own lingering illness. Ling Xuefeng seized the opportunity to propose his full support for the Ministry of Personnel's suggestion to implement the talent recommendation system, acknowledging it as beneficial for the nation. Xiao Huan expressed his satisfaction with Ling Xuefeng's devotion.

Ling Xuefeng later discussed the situation with his aide, confirming that Xiao Huan had used Ling Cangcang's confinement to pressure him into agreeing to let Song Lanxi assume office in the Capital. He was willing to concede for his daughter's sake, confident that if Ling Cangcang were to bear a royal heir, a young emperor who might not live past thirty would pose no threat.

He also shrewdly noted that even if he didn't act against the new policy, Empress Dowager Liu certainly wouldn't sit idly by. Meanwhile, Empress Dowager Liu also learned that Xiao Qianqing was summoned back to the Capital to escort Song Lanxi. She vehemently opposed the talent recommendation system, viewing it as detrimental to her and her family's power. She suspected Xiao Huan was using Xiao Qianqing against her.

Although she decided not to intervene directly, she believed Song Lanxi, despite his noble connections, was too young and inexperienced to be an easy tool for the Emperor. Xiao Huan, knowing Ling Cangcang's profound resentment, instructed his eunuch to discreetly remove the Empress Dowager's spy from her palace. The next day, when the eunuch delivered paintings from Xiao Huan and announced the end of her confinement, Ling Cangcang sarcastically remarked on the Emperor's clever methods.

Xiao Huan, for his part, privately acknowledged that he had used her again, further cementing her hatred for him. Elsewhere, Prince of Yuzhang, Xiao Qianqing, was on his way to the Capital, and the Fenglai Pavilion was assigned to assist in escorting the candidates. Xiao Qianqing, known as the Peacock Prince, was not as superficial as his nickname suggested. He aimed to meddle in the new policy, making his return to the Capital a grand and public affair.

He argued with Shi Yan from Fenglai Pavilion about their involvement, questioning the need for assistance in escorting a few people. Zhong Lin, the Vice Sect Leader of Fenglai Pavilion, stepped forward, offering her personal service. Xiao Qianqing recognized her as the woman who gave him a hideous tattoo and asked if she was coming to the Capital to see Ling Cangcang. He initially refused to help her for altruistic reasons.

Zhong Lin, however, demonstrated her photographic memory by threatening to "forget" all the details of the candidates' list if he didn't bring her along. Impressed by her intelligence, Xiao Qianqing agreed. He confided in his aide that he suspected his imperial brother was up to no good, but he also missed his mother and Princess Ying. He instructed his aide to stay behind and keep an eye on Shi Yan.

Meanwhile, Ling Cangcang was cheerful, having received news that a friend from outside the palace would soon arrive in the Capital. Her Begonia Pendant suddenly emitted light, leading her to the cold palace. Her maid explained that it was Princess Ying's residence, a taboo subject in the palace. Princess Ying, Empress Dowager Liu's adoptive daughter, had been close to Xiao Huan in childhood but was traumatized by a fire, becoming addled.

She chose to reside in the desolate cold palace for peace. Ling Cangcang entered and found Princess Ying, who immediately warned her not to touch her belongings and expressed a strong dislike for Ling Cangcang because of her association with Xiao Huan. Ling Cangcang asserted that she also disliked Xiao Huan. Xiao Ying then offered to tell Ling Cangcang about her pendant if she would kill Xiao Huan. Ling Cangcang hesitated, making Xiao Ying doubt the sincerity of her hatred.

Ling Cangcang retorted, challenging Xiao Ying's knowledge of the pendant. Xiao Ying revealed that it contained an Azure firefly, recorded in the Tome of All Venom, which had been specially bred on toxic powder. She demonstrated how her firefly recoiled from Ling Cangcang's pendant. Ling Cangcang learned that her own Begonia Pendant contained Wanwei Herb, a rare herb that glowed to repel venomous creatures. She wondered why her master had given her such a powerful artifact as an ordinary accessory.

Xiao Ying then confided that her master had been killed, believing Xiao Huan was responsible, which fueled her hatred and desire to see him dead. She offered her poisons to help Ling Cangcang achieve this. Xiao Huan was informed of Ling Cangcang's visit to the cold palace and Princess Ying's offer to help her kill him.

He calmly instructed his eunuch not to intervene, knowing the two women shared a common enemy, and Ling Cangcang had not agreed to Xiao Ying's deadly proposal. Back in her palace, a distraught Ling Cangcang drank heavily, dismissing her maid's concern. She lamented her fate, seeing herself as a "caged canary bird" rather than a heroine. When Xiao Huan arrived, she asked why he was there.

He said he came to apologize, but she bitterly questioned what he could possibly apologize for, as she was the one who poisoned him. He replied that it did not matter and joined her for a drink. He mentioned their first meeting on the roof, but she snapped that he had no right to bring it up. She tearfully accused him of using her as a bargaining chip against her father.

When he tried to speak, she declared that anything he said now would be meaningless to her, and she wouldn't believe him. He asked if she still wanted the Phoenix Seal, and she questioned if he was offering help or simply trying to deceive her again. Breaking her wine cup, she declared their relationship was shattered, or rather, her own pipe dream.

She demanded to know why he had killed her master and if his initial approach was solely for that purpose. Xiao Huan insisted his feelings for her were sincere, but she retorted that his "serious commitment can kill." Unseen, Princess Ying had been spying on their intense exchange. Realizing Ling Cangcang harbored deep feelings for Xiao Huan, she finally understood why Ling Cangcang had hesitated to accept her offer to kill him.

Meanwhile, Ling Xuefeng gave Luo Xianxue a new, light blade, perfectly suited for his missing right index finger. He reiterated the importance of eliminating Song Lanxi and the other officials, instructing Luo Xianxue to leave no traces. Luo Xianxue, perplexed, questioned the necessity of killing a seemingly unimportant candidate.

Ling Xuefeng revealed that Song Lanxi was the personal student of Li Chengtian, a formidable scholar and former political rival who, despite his retirement, still commanded immense respect among the court's moral faction. Ling Xuefeng realized Xiao Huan was attempting to entice Li Chengtian back into service through Song Lanxi, which would be their greatest threat.

Acknowledging that Xiao Huan had once again outmaneuvered him, Ling Xuefeng emphasized the urgency of the mission and the absolute need to succeed without revealing their identities. Luo Xianxue vowed to fulfill his duty. Xiao Qianqing, Zhong Lin, and their entourage were at an inn. Despite the lack of a suitable chef, Xiao Qianqing insisted on ordering expensive dishes like braised pufferfish with rushes for his large group, flaunting his wealth.

During their stay, they were ambushed by a group of highly trained assassins. Xiao Qianqing, having anticipated such a move, had replaced some of the actual candidates with criminals from death row, who were killed in the attack. After fending off the assassins, he proudly told Zhong Lin that his high-profile approach was a deliberate tactic to expose such attempts. Zhong Lin, though initially dismissive, conceded that he had some intelligence.

She still urged caution, noting their distance from the Capital and the potential for more incidents. Xiao Qianqing, desiring to reach the Capital safely to find Ling Cangcang, assured her he could handle it. Suddenly, a subordinate rushed in with alarming news: Official Song Lanxi had secretly left and was found barely alive, unlikely to survive. Xiao Qianqing immediately recognized this as a trap, realizing his imperial brother would try to blame him for failing to protect the official. He urgently began to devise a solution.

Ling Cangcang, having carefully snuck out of Linghe Hall, arrived at the cold palace and found Xiao Ying sitting blankly on the steps. Xiao Ying immediately led Cangcang inside, where she began to draw. Cangcang observed the drawing of a woman engulfed in flames and asked if it depicted Xiao Ying herself, hurt in a fire. Xiao Ying confirmed it by revealing a terrifying scar on the back of her neck.

Xiao Ying then recounted her childhood, fondly recalling her time playing with Xiao Huan at his residence, which contained many strange and fascinating books left by his late mother. She confessed she used to enjoy his company. However, one day, a huge fire broke out at his residence. She was trapped and desperately called for Xiao Huan to save her, but he never appeared. She remembered that his crickets were saved, but no one came for her.

Bitterly stating that he had promised to take good care of her, she concluded that "all liars deserve to die." Taking a small bottle, Xiao Ying then used its contents to render Cangcang unconscious. She further revealed that since Cangcang possessed a treasure that repelled poison, she had resorted to using the "Puppet Incense," a rare and difficult substance to concoct.

Xiao Ying then hypnotized Cangcang, instructing her to forget visiting the cold palace, to harbor deep hatred for Xiao Huan, and to kill him with her own sword. Meanwhile, Xiao Huan was at his mother's memorial, reflecting on the transient nature of his closest relationships. He was then informed that Empress Cangcang had fainted in the cold palace. The palace maids, questioned by Xiao Huan, explained that Cangcang had gone out for an appointment and forbidden them from following.

Xiao Huan realized Cangcang had encountered Princess Ying and fallen victim to her trap. Although urged by his attendants to return to rest due to his frequently flaring cold sickness, Xiao Huan dismissed them, choosing to remain. Later, as Xiao Huan slept uneasily in his chamber, a bell rang. Under the influence of Xiao Ying's hypnotic suggestion, Cangcang rose with vacant eyes, picked up a sword, and mechanically lunged at Xiao Huan.

As she attacked, she repeated, "Those who break their word all deserve to die. I will kill him with my own sword. I hate Xiao Huan to my very core." Xiao Huan, startled awake, quickly grasped the blade. He understood she was being controlled and, unwilling to harm her, tried to awaken her. Cangcang, though frail, struggled against the control, declaring that while she might hate him, she refused to be anyone's puppet.

She then dislocated her own arm to prevent herself from striking him and fainted. Xiao Huan immediately ordered his subordinates to keep the incident secret. He then discreetly summoned Imperial Preceptor Du Tingxin for treatment. When Du Tingxin later tended to Cangcang, she found the Empress about to question a maid about the strange events.

Du Tingxin confirmed that Cangcang had been controlled by Princess Ying's Puppet Incense and had attempted to assassinate Xiao Huan, but emphasized that Cangcang had dislocated her own arm to prevent harming him. Du Tingxin then shared her personal history: she was the former Imperial Preceptor's illegitimate daughter. After her mother was forced to self-immolate to protect her, the ministers still demanded her sacrifice.

It was Xiao Huan who saved her by pardoning her and appointing her as the new Imperial Preceptor, leading her to dedicate her life to him. Ling Cangcang, however, remained skeptical, asserting that "Emperors are heartless" and that "power is all he's ever valued." Du Tingxin countered that Cangcang's subconscious refusal to harm Xiao Huan, even while controlled, suggested she might truly care for him, urging her to trust him.

She vowed that if Cangcang could maintain a harmonious relationship with the Emperor, Nanrong Palace would become Linghe Hall's most loyal supporter. Separately, Ling Xuefeng harbored suspicions that Song Lanxi was still alive. Despite his subordinate's assurances that Song Lanxi had been gravely wounded during an assassination attempt (lured by Li Chengtian's name) and could not have survived, Ling Xuefeng remained unconvinced due to Xiao Qianqing's heightened security measures and large purchases of injury salves.

He arranged for his men to meet him before the final examinations. Feigning indifference, Ling Cangcang anxiously inquired about Xiao Huan's condition. After learning that Imperial Physician Li, a renowned healer discovered by the late Emperor, had been summoned to treat Xiao Huan's severe cold poison, her worry intensified.

Imperial Physician Li, after examining Xiao Huan, sternly warned him against continued recklessness, stating that his cold poison was only temporarily suppressed and his life would be in peril if he continued to wear himself out. He revealed he needed a woman with powerful inner strength and a "yin-soft" constitution to help suppress the "blazing hot" medicine he was using. At that moment, Ling Cangcang arrived.

Xiao Huan attempted to send her away, but Imperial Physician Li intervened, insisting she remain. Li then told Cangcang that Xiao Huan showed a clear preference for her, evidenced by his immediate attempt to straighten up upon her entrance despite his illness. He bluntly asked if she would save Xiao Huan's life.

Cangcang, feeling a sense of responsibility for his injury—even though Xiao Huan clarified it was Xiao Ying's doing—agreed to help, stating that despite her hatred for him, she didn't want him to die inexplicably. During the treatment, while semi-conscious, Xiao Huan mumbled that he had promised someone not to tell Cangcang the truth, hinting at a secret related to her master's death. This made Cangcang wonder if, despite his deceptions, Xiao Huan sometimes showed genuine emotion.

After Xiao Huan recovered, Cangcang confronted him about the "reasons" he'd hinted at for killing her master, saying the Bai Chifan she once knew couldn't have been entirely deceitful. Xiao Huan tried to deflect her questions. Xiao Huan then brought Cangcang to the cold palace. He interrogated the guards, who were all revealed to be from Xuanguang Hall.

Inside, Xiao Ying, immersed in concocting potions, became enraged when Xiao Huan deliberately knocked over her bottles and jars, destroying her favorite things. Xiao Huan retorted that she dared to harm his Empress and ordered all her possessions burned in the courtyard. The Empress Dowager arrived, demanding to know why Xiao Huan was interfering in the cold palace. She downplayed Cangcang's injuries and expressed concern for Xiao Ying's fright.

Xiao Huan accused her of feigning ignorance, suggesting she would have been pleased if Cangcang had killed him. He then questioned her competence, proposing that she was too old to manage the palace and should hand the Phoenix Seal to the Empress. He pointedly reminded her about the fire that had caused Xiao Ying's current state, implicitly accusing the Empress Dowager of orchestrating it. The Empress Dowager, her face grave, then requested severe punishment for Princess Ying.

Xiao Huan agreed, ordering the replacement of all cold palace guards, confining Xiao Ying, and forbidding any lamps for ten days. Xiao Ying, terrified of the dark, cried out for Xiao Qianqing to save her. Xiao Huan declared that Xiao Ying had never truly experienced darkness and that he owed her nothing. He then instructed Li Hongqing to take control of the cold palace and place Princess Ying under the watch of the Imperial Guards.

Reflecting on the callous display of familial relations in the palace, Ling Cangcang told Xiao Huan that she had witnessed his ruthless side. She then requested permission to leave the palace once, citing her help in saving his life. He granted her request but warned her not to disclose details of the Wuying Hall incident to anyone, only to state that his illness was severe and difficult to recover from.

He then ordered Li Hongqing to escort Cangcang to the Summer Palace to escape the heat and return immediately, leaving her there unattended. Xiao Qianqing, having learned of Xiao Huan's punishment of Xiao Ying, particularly the ten days without light, was furious, knowing her deep fear of darkness. He attempted to see Xiao Huan but was turned away by Eunuch Feng, who claimed the Emperor was unwell. Xiao Qianqing viewed this as a deliberate and unwelcome "homecoming gift" from his brother.

Ling Cangcang looked at her Begonia Pendant, which continued to glow, and wondered why it would react if Princess Xiao Ying's poison had been destroyed. She suspected there were still other toxins hidden within the palace. Meanwhile, Empress Dowager Liu and Xiao Qianqing went to visit Xiao Ying in the cold palace. Xiao Ying was intently drawing on the ground and only responded when Xiao Qianqing called her name.

She seemed not to recognize Empress Dowager Liu and asked her brother to help her "kill them all." Xiao Qianqing felt great pain for his sister, knowing his mother was the true cause of the Luling Palace fire that scarred her. Empress Dowager Liu, frustrated by Xiao Ying's regression, blamed Emperor Xiao Huan. Xiao Qianqing countered that Xiao Ying's punishment for poisoning the Empress and attempting to assassinate Xiao Huan was already light.

He then pressed his mother, asking if she had always known the truth behind Xiao Ying's condition but chose to keep it from her, fueling her resentment towards Xiao Huan. Enraged, Empress Dowager Liu slapped Xiao Qianqing across the face, accusing him of bearing a grudge against her. Xiao Qianqing assured his mother he had returned to protect her and Xiao Ying, vowing to never forget the injustice his sister suffered.

Elsewhere, Ling Xuefeng was orchestrating a plan to infiltrate the court with his students. Luo Xianxue informed him that Ling Cangcang had gone to the Sword Cottage alone. Realizing Cangcang had not truly let go of her master's death, Ling Xuefeng decided to fabricate a believable "truth" to tell her. Luo Xianxue later found Ling Cangcang at the Sword Cottage, bringing a bottle of Bamboo Leaf Green wine to commemorate Li Lu.

Ling Cangcang pointed out that Li Lu never drank that type of wine, indicating Luo Xianxue wasn't truly there to mourn him. She expressed profound guilt for not knowing the cause of her master's death and for failing to clear his name. Under the influence of alcohol, Ling Cangcang mistook Luo Xianxue for Xiao Huan, accusing him of harming her master. In her drunken stupor, she lunged at him with a sword but found herself unable to strike him down.

Luo Xianxue, realizing that despite her anger, Ling Cangcang still harbored feelings for Xiao Huan, found the truth painful. Upon waking, Ling Cangcang asked Luo Xianxue what she had said while drunk, and he reassured her that she hadn't revealed anything significant. They then noticed an inexplicable cold draft and discovered a hidden cellar beneath the forge.

Inside, they found belongings of Li Lu's former love, Tang Tang, and a portrait of a mysterious woman who bore an uncanny resemblance to Cangcang. Most disturbingly, they uncovered a Ghost King mask and a book detailing the Lingbi Sect's secret arts of the "Stone Man." Ling Cangcang vehemently refused to believe that her master, Li Lu, could have been involved with such dark practices.

Meanwhile, Xiao Qianqing informed Zhong Lin that Emperor Xiao Huan had postponed the final imperial examination due to illness, but he suspected Xiao Huan might have an ulterior motive. Zhong Lin panicked, fearing exposure as Song Lanxi's impersonator, a crime punishable by death. To create a plausible excuse for her altered appearance and lack of speech, she arranged to be "attacked by an assassin," injuring her head and neck and wrapping herself in bandages.

Later, at the manor, Xiao Qianqing hosted Xu Feng, a student of Ling Xuefeng, who had brought Physician Liu to treat the supposedly ailing Song Lanxi. Zhong Lin, heavily bandaged and feigning muteness, appeared and awkwardly attempted to write calligraphy. Xiao Qianqing explained that "Song Lanxi" had suffered severe injuries to his head and neck during an assassin attack, damaging his vocal cords and causing him to avoid physical contact. Xu Feng insisted on seeing "Song Lanxi's" calligraphy.

Zhong Lin managed to write a few characters, which Xiao Qianqing presented as a gesture from "Song Lanxi of the Western Garden in Guzhou." Once Xu Feng and Physician Liu departed, Zhong Lin expressed her relief, terrified of the consequences if her impersonation were discovered. Xiao Huan arrived and confronted Xiao Qianqing about allowing Zhong Lin to impersonate Song Lanxi. Xiao Qianqing confessed that Ling Xuefeng had assassinated the real Song Lanxi, forcing him to improvise.

Xiao Huan accused Xiao Qianqing of using Zhong Lin to threaten him. Xiao Qianqing then revealed that the Empress missed Zhong Lin dearly, subtly leveraging her affection to avoid punishment. He also pointed out that exposing Song Lanxi's death would be detrimental to both of them, suggesting they maintain the lie together.

Xiao Huan agreed to cover for Xiao Qianqing on the condition that he persuade Li Chengtian, Song Lanxi's former master and a respected retired official, to re-enter court affairs. Xiao Huan explained that Song Lanxi was merely a pawn to draw out Li Chengtian and see how he would react to the news that Ling Xuefeng had killed his beloved student.

Concurrently, Ling Xuefeng received the calligraphy supposedly written by Song Lanxi and refused to believe his enemy was still alive. He ordered Luo Xianxue to investigate further, while also ensuring all traces of Li Lu's association with their faction were meticulously removed. Ling Xuefeng then pondered Ling Cangcang's determined search for the truth about Li Lu, acknowledging that the painful reality was something she needed to face, even though he knew she currently suspected foul play.

He also learned that Cangcang was now heading directly to the palace. Later, Xiao Huan prepared pear blossom honey for Ling Cangcang. However, Cangcang confronted him, asking if she should be happy that her master was the Ghost King. She accused him of deliberately placing the Ghost King's items in the Sword Cottage to frame Li Lu. Xiao Huan denied the accusation, stating he would not have waited until now if he intended to frame Li Lu.

He reiterated his promise to Li Lu not to reveal the truth of his death to Cangcang. Undeterred, Ling Cangcang declared she would uncover the truth herself, dismissing Xiao Huan's warning that the truth might be too devastating for her to bear. In a flashback, Xiao Huan revealed to a dying Li Lu that Ling Xuefeng was the one who had abducted his daughter, Ling Cangcang, when she was a child, orchestrating the entire affair.

Li Lu begged Xiao Huan not to tell Cangcang this painful truth, as it would shatter her. Xiao Huan promised to protect the secret. Back in the present, Xiao Huan regretted that his vow to protect Cangcang was now being twisted and exploited by Ling Xuefeng.

Luo Xianxue questions Ling Xuefeng about the potential fallout if Xiao Huan were to reveal that Mr. Li Lu willingly sacrificed himself under Ling Xuefeng's orders. Ling Xuefeng confidently asserts that Xiao Huan would never tell and that his actions were for the good of the Ling clan.

When Luo Xianxue expresses concern that Ling Cangcang might be unable to bear the truth, Ling Xuefeng is resolute, stating that as a daughter of the Ling clan, there are certain burdens she must endure. He emphasizes that despite her title as Empress, the Ling clan remains her true foundation, and her security hinges on its prosperity.

He notes that Xiao Huan is relentlessly pressuring him in court, making it imperative for him to gain the support of powerful ministers, or the Ling clan will face ruin. Therefore, Ling Xuefeng stresses that Ling Cangcang must bear a prince soon. He then asks for updates on the Saintess of the Lingbi Sect, stating that finding her is crucial to recovering the Moon-Eclipse. Luo Xianxue pledges his unwavering loyalty and promises to dedicate his life to this task.

Ling Cangcang observes that her Begonia Pendant emits light when near a poisonous entity. She recalls her master's teachings, realizing it must contain Wanwei Herb, a rare medicinal herb known to glow and ward off toxins, making her immune to any poison. She also remembers that the Moon-Eclipse is the Ghost King's token, a creature that feeds on and originates from Wanwei Herb. Implanted in a human heart, it can unleash the host's potential at the cost of their lifespan.

Should the host perish, the Moon-Eclipse faces imminent demise, able to regenerate only by returning to the Wanwei Herb. Ling Cangcang realizes that to unravel the mysteries surrounding her master's death within the palace, especially since Li Hongqing oversaw his burial, she must first reclaim the Phoenix Seal. Ling Cangcang's attendant informs her that the Empress Dowager is actively arranging for Xiao Huan to choose new consorts. Ling Cangcang, surprisingly, views this as a "good thing," baffling her attendant.

Ling Cangcang proceeds to meet the Empress Dowager and, feigning ignorance about the concubine selection, explains she just returned to the palace. The Empress Dowager expresses her frustration, noting Xiao Huan's insistence on consulting Ling Cangcang and subtly blaming her for the lack of heirs. Ling Cangcang assures her she will now dutifully assist in persuading Xiao Huan to expand his harem. Later, Ling Cangcang presents Xiao Huan with the carefully selected portraits of noble young women.

Xiao Huan, suspicious of her motives, questions why she is helping. Ling Cangcang reiterates her duty as Empress to secure the royal line. When he presses her about her detached attitude, she dismissively states that true affection is absent in the palace, rendering the presence of spies irrelevant. Frustrated, Xiao Huan declares he will personally scrutinize the choices.

A eunuch suggests to Xiao Huan that Ling Cangcang might have acted under duress, but Xiao Huan instead orders Li Hongqing to conduct a thorough investigation into the backgrounds of all candidates. An attendant reports to Ling Cangcang that Xiao Huan has chosen Xing Yiyi, Minister Xing's daughter, and is showering her with gifts. Ling Cangcang outwardly maintains her composure, stating that Xiao Huan's happiness is all that matters.

Xiao Huan, however, aware of her jealousy, later presses her on what title he should bestow upon Xing Yiyi, highlighting her "gentleness" and "grace." Ling Cangcang, with veiled sarcasm, tells him to decide for himself and even offers to cede her Empress title if he loves Xing Yiyi so deeply. Xiao Huan deflects, claiming the Empress's duties are too arduous for Xing Yiyi. Ling Cangcang then departs, citing pressing harem matters.

Observing her leave, Xiao Huan privately acknowledges that she still cares for him. Meanwhile, the Empress Dowager concludes that Xiao Huan likely prefers Xing Yiyi's gentle demeanor over Ling Cangcang's assertive one and realizes Ling Cangcang plans to use this situation to regain the Phoenix Seal. Ling Cangcang instructs her attendant to inform the Empress Dowager that she has a cold and cannot host the upcoming Lotus Banquet.

At the banquet, Xiao Huan conspicuously asks Ling Cangcang for her opinion on Xing Yiyi's dance. Ling Cangcang offers a terse "Very good" and suggests Xiao Huan keep Xing Yiyi's performances for his private enjoyment, citing her own martial inclinations. During the Lotus Banquet, just as the Empress Dowager intends to have Xing Yiyi remain in the palace, a man dramatically appears, claiming a secret betrothal to her.

Xing Yiyi denies knowing him, but the man insists he taught her all her skills. Grand Tutor Ling seizes this opportunity to publicly criticize the Empress Dowager for her poor judgment. Ling Cangcang steps in, feigning sympathy for the Empress Dowager's laborious management of the inner palace and tactfully suggests she relinquish her duties to the Empress and enjoy a peaceful retirement.

Subsequently, a servant informs the furious Empress Dowager that Ling Xuefeng, Minister Xing, and other ministers have formally impeached her for negligence. The servant further discloses that Xiao Huan has decreed the Phoenix Seal be transferred to Ling Cangcang. Xiao Huan later confronts Ling Cangcang, admitting he anticipated her plan and selected Xing Yiyi precisely because he knew her intentions, revealing that all other candidates were flawed. Ling Cangcang declares her primary objective was always the Phoenix Seal.

Armed with it, she visits the Inner Archive and interrogates the eunuch in charge, who reveals that Commander Li had, the previous day, removed the Lingbi Sect dossiers and a coffin. Ling Cangcang realizes Xiao Huan had preemptively moved the items and suspects her master's body, possibly containing the Moon-Eclipse, is inside the coffin, deepening her doubt about his identity. Xing Yiyi confronts and attempts to assassinate Ling Cangcang.

Ling Cangcang calmly offers Xing Yiyi a way out, promising to use the Phoenix Seal to help her escape the palace and live a free life with her beloved. Xing Yiyi initially shows hope but, observing unseen figures in the distance, realizes her fate is sealed and tragically takes her own life. The Empress Dowager is pleased to hear of Xing Yiyi's death, seeing it as an opportunity to implicate Ling Cangcang.

Meanwhile, Minister Xing kneels before Xiao Huan, demanding justice for his daughter, but Xiao Huan dismisses him. Soon after, a eunuch informs Ling Cangcang that Xiao Huan requires her to return the Phoenix Seal. Xiao Huan explains that due to numerous impeachment memorials against her, he must temporarily reclaim it. Ling Cangcang vehemently argues that the Empress Dowager orchestrated Xing Yiyi's death to frame her.

Xiao Huan admits he knows the truth but counters that the palace operates on power, not justice. She passionately questions if a human life is merely a pawn in their game for the Phoenix Seal. Xiao Huan promises to return the seal once the scandal subsides, but Ling Cangcang challenges him, asking if he fears her continued investigation.

She confronts him with her knowledge of him moving her master's body and how her Begonia Pendant reacted to it, suggesting the Moon-Eclipse is hidden within the corpse. She directly asks if he killed her master because he was the Ghost King and if his initial manipulation of her was all part of the scheme.

Xiao Huan maintains he had no choice but to kill Li Lu, implying the truth is more complex, and that he moved the body to prevent the Moon-Eclipse from causing further harm. Seeing her distress, he decides to show her the truth. Xiao Huan leads Ling Cangcang to Mr. Li Lu's body.

Upon seeing her master, Ling Cangcang is utterly heartbroken, repeatedly calling out his name and tearfully demanding to know why he lied to her and why he was the Ghost King. Xiao Huan explains that he killed Li Lu out of dire necessity. Overwhelmed with grief, Ling Cangcang accuses Xiao Huan of having used and deceived her from the beginning because of her master's identity.

She describes her profound, unending pain, questioning the meaning of "sincerity" when even her most trusted master proved deceptive, leaving her feeling completely isolated. Xiao Huan, visibly pained by her anguish, expresses his own sorrow, explaining that his position as Emperor often forces him into impossible choices. He firmly vows to protect her and ensure her lifelong safety. Meanwhile, Ling Xuefeng instructs Luo Xianxue to ascertain the extent of Ling Cangcang's knowledge regarding Mr. Li Lu's case and the Moon-Eclipse.

Luo Xianxue meets Ling Cangcang at the Changyue Tavern. Ling Cangcang confirms that her master was indeed the Ghost King and that she saw the Moon-Eclipse within his body. Luo Xianxue feigns surprise and suggests that Xiao Huan’s actions imply he covets the Moon-Eclipse. Ling Cangcang defends Xiao Huan, stating he merely wishes to prevent it from falling into malevolent hands, but Luo Xianxue dismisses his words as unreliable.

He urges Ling Cangcang to secure the Moon-Eclipse herself for the well-being of the realm, stressing that her Begonia Pendant, containing Wanwei Herb, is its perfect sanctuary. Deeply confused, Ling Cangcang admits she could reconcile with Xiao Huan killing her master out of necessity, but his deceit was deeply hurtful. She turns to Luo Xianxue, asking if she can truly trust him, as he has never lied to her.

Luo Xianxue, hiding his own guilt, reassures her of his unwavering loyalty. Comforted, Ling Cangcang feels she can at least rely on him and her father, as Luo Xianxue subtly continues to sow seeds of doubt against Xiao Huan. As Ling Cangcang meets Luo Xianxue, Aunt Chan suddenly arrives with palace guards to conduct a search. Just as Ling Cangcang senses trouble, Xiao Huan appears unexpectedly, asserting that he brought her out for tea.

He sternly reprimands Aunt Chan for disrupting them and orders her to leave. After she departs, Ling Cangcang questions Xiao Huan's sudden presence and his decision to cover for her, noting the two teacups on the table. Xiao Huan claims he came out of curiosity after hearing about Aunt Chan's arrival and reaffirms his pledge to protect her. He then suggests they take a stroll through the bustling market.

They stop at a stall selling honey puffs, which Xiao Huan reveals were his favorite childhood treat. He explains that his mother would always give him one after his bitter medicine for a cold sickness he suffered from. After his mother's death, he abstained from sweets to remember the bitterness and remain vigilant. However, he confesses that after tasting Ling Cangcang's pear blossom honey, he realized that sweetness ultimately triumphs over bitterness.

Xiao Huan sought to reconcile with Ling Cangcang, hoping she would give him another chance to clear their misunderstandings and begin anew. He promised to always remain by her side until she willingly came to him. As they spoke, fireworks illuminated the night sky, captivating Ling Cangcang's attention. She looked at Xiao Huan, and a subtle shift in their relationship seemed to occur.

Upon returning to Linghe Hall, Ling Cangcang felt a warmth in her heart when she remembered the osmanthus pastry Xiao Huan had given her earlier. She then asked him why he didn't question who she had met at the tavern that day. Xiao Huan simply replied that he trusted his Empress. Later, Xiao Huan instructed Hongqing to closely monitor Ling Cangcang's surroundings, ensuring no further incidents would endanger her.

He learned that agents of the Empress Dowager were intercepting Ling Cangcang's carrier pigeons outside Linghe Hall. Xiao Huan emphasized his determination to prevent such occurrences and ordered a handsome reward for a guard in the Empress Dowager's palace who had provided a tip-off. He also received news from his ninth brother, Xiao Qianqing, that things were progressing smoothly, noting that Xiao Qianqing was proving to be far more dependable than their mother, the Empress Dowager.

During the final imperial exam, Ling Xuefeng, the Grand Tutor, expressed doubts about one of the candidates, Song Lanxi, claiming the person was a woman in disguise. Ministers echoed his outrage, calling it a deception of the Emperor. Xiao Huan swiftly clarified that Song Lanxi was indeed a woman, but kept a low profile, dressed in men's clothing, and rarely appeared in public, leading many to mistakenly believe she was a man.

To quash further doubts, Xiao Qianqing presented Li Chengtian, Song Lanxi's esteemed teacher, who confirmed her identity. The long-retired Li Chengtian, now returned to court due to its "cleaner" state, openly challenged Ling Xuefeng, asserting his disciple's integrity. With the witness's testimony, Xiao Huan declared the matter settled and called for the results of the exam to be awaited. Feeling unappreciated, Xiao Qianqing privately grumbled that Xiao Huan had offered no praise for his crucial intervention.

Meanwhile, Du Tingxin, the Imperial Preceptor, eagerly informed Xiao Huan that Imperial Physician Li had finally located the rare Frost Reed, a potent herb capable of curing his chronic cold sickness. She had prepared a banquet to celebrate, but Xiao Huan, preoccupied, dismissed the offer, stating he had other matters to attend to, specifically hinting at sharing the good news with Ling Cangcang.

Du Tingxin, harboring deep feelings for Xiao Huan that he did not reciprocate, felt a pang of disappointment. Confined to her palace, Princess Xiao Ying caused a disturbance, threatening her guards with poisons that could "burst into flame at night" or be "deadly with just a touch." Hongqing intervened, calmly persuading her to return to her chambers. Xiao Ying surprisingly complied after biting Hongqing, saying that finding him made her happy.

Worried, Hongqing's subordinates immediately checked if he had been poisoned. Later, Ling Cangcang's maid brought her some pear blossom honey that Ling Xuefeng had sent. Ling Cangcang fondly recalled how her father always brought her such treats. Xiao Huan arrived at Ling Cangcang’s palace, brimming with joy. He announced that his cold sickness finally had a cure, ensuring he wouldn't suddenly leave her. However, Ling Cangcang suddenly felt dizzy and unwell.

Xiao Huan, noticing she was burning up, grew deeply concerned and offered to call an imperial physician, but she insisted she was fine. The next morning, Ling Cangcang woke with regret, pondering whether she could truly trust Xiao Huan again. Overwhelmed, she fainted once more.

An imperial physician was urgently summoned and reported that Ling Cangcang had been poisoned by a "vicious, rare toxin" called Frostflower, which was rapidly lowering her body temperature and suppressing her heartbeat, leaving her only a few hours to live. The physician also mentioned she had ingested Lovesickness Powder and recalled seeing similar poisons at Princess Xiao Ying's palace. Enraged, Xiao Huan immediately confronted Xiao Ying, demanding the antidote.

Xiao Ying vehemently denied poisoning Ling Cangcang, stating she had been confined to her palace. Xiao Qianqing arrived and defended her, pointing out that Xiao Ying had not left her residence, a fact corroborated by her guards. Xiao Ying confirmed her knowledge of Frostflower but stated she had no antidote, explaining that she only created poisons to harm Xiao Huan, not cures. She grimly added that even if an antidote existed, Ling Cangcang wouldn't survive long enough to receive it.

Desperate to save Ling Cangcang, Xiao Huan made the agonizing decision to use the recently acquired Frost Reed, his only hope for curing his own cold sickness, as an antidote for her. Despite Hongqing's pleas to reconsider, Xiao Huan was resolute, stating that his decision could not be changed. He ordered the Frost Reed to be ground into a powder and prepared for Ling Cangcang.

Du Tingxin, learning that the precious Frost Reed had been taken to Linghe Hall, rushed there, only to be stopped by guards. She confronted Xiao Huan, distraught that he had sacrificed his own life-saving medicine. Xiao Huan then revealed the true mastermind behind the poisoning: Ling Xuefeng. He explained that Ling Xuefeng had laced the pear blossom honey with Frostflower poison, stolen from Xiao Ying's palace, along with Lovesickness Powder.

Ling Xuefeng's elaborate scheme aimed to force Xiao Huan to use his only cure, frame Xiao Ying, sow discord between Xiao Huan and the Empress Dowager, and eventually use a potential heir to seize power. Xiao Huan shockingly admitted he had uncovered this plot even before administering the Frost Reed to Ling Cangcang.

Du Tingxin, furious at Ling Xuefeng's audacity, urged Xiao Huan to retaliate, warning him that Ling Xuefeng was now resorting to desperate measures and would surely rebel if Ling Cangcang bore an heir. When Ling Cangcang finally regained consciousness, Xiao Huan was relieved but chose to conceal the painful truth about Ling Xuefeng's plot, simply telling her she had been poisoned and that the danger had passed.

He then presented her with a bowl of birth-control tea, a prescription from Du Tingxin that he claimed would prevent "a great deal of trouble" for them both. Ling Cangcang was heartbroken and confused, questioning if everything they had shared was merely a façade. Believing that only three days had passed since their intimate moment, she accused him of being fickle, of discarding his love as easily as a fleeting whim. Xiao Huan, enduring immense inner pain, remained silent, allowing her to believe the worst.

Ling Cangcang stared at the birth-control tea, puzzled by its timing, especially after her relationship with Xiao Huan had finally shown signs of improving. She directly confronted him, asking if this was his way of "keeping her safe." Xiao Huan simply confirmed it. With tears welling in his eyes, Xiao Huan watched as Ling Cangcang defiantly drank the entire bowl, ensuring not a single drop remained. Maintaining a cold facade, he then turned to leave.

Ling Cangcang, heartbroken and furious, smashed the bowl to the ground and demanded to know his reasons. Xiao Huan explained that he could not have a child with the Ling bloodline. As he walked away, Ling Cangcang felt utterly helpless, calling him a "liar" and questioning which of his words were true, struggling to understand his erratic behavior of pushing her away only to pull her back again. Later, Du Tingxin took Xiao Huan's pulse, her mind clouded with questions.

She couldn't comprehend why His Majesty would conceal the truth of the birth-control tea from the Empress or what kind of cruel man Grand Tutor Ling Xuefeng truly was. She found it baffling that Xiao Huan would offer a life-saving medicine (referring to the Frost Reed from a prior incident) to the Empress, only to then use such a brutal method to sever their emotional connection.

Xiao Huan sensed her unspoken thoughts and warned her with a cold gaze not to mention the "Frost Reed" or anything about his actions to the Empress, threatening merciless consequences if she defied his will. He stated he was accustomed to Her Majesty's misunderstandings and bearing burdens alone. Du Tingxin quickly lowered her head, accepting the imperial decree. Meanwhile, Zhong Lin visited Ling Cangcang.

Upon hearing of her recent misfortunes, Zhong Lin's opinion of Xiao Huan worsened, convinced he was a villain. He urged Ling Cangcang to abandon the palace life, return to Southern Chu, and restore their Fenglai Pavilion. However, Ling Cangcang firmly refused, stating she had unfinished tasks that prevented her from leaving. Luo Xianxue urgently informed Ling Xuefeng that Xiao Huan had publicly declared the Empress incapable of bearing royal heirs.

Enraged, Ling Xuefeng instructed Luo Xianxue, his adopted son, to amass greater power to protect Ling Cangcang. He also saw this as the prime opportunity to obtain the Moon-Eclipse. Ling Cangcang was plagued by nightmares of her master's tragic death, causing her profound distress. A maid suggested she step out into the sun to improve her health. As Xiao Huan prepared to leave, Ling Xuefeng intercepted him, and Xiao Huan was aware of his intentions.

Ling Xuefeng proposed a game of chess and recounted a tale of two women fighting over an infant, asking Xiao Huan how he would rule. Xiao Huan stated that the true mother would be the one who let go first to protect the child from harm, implying that letting go out of compassion could be a victory. Xiao Huan, however, advised Ling Xuefeng against excessive pride or self-satisfaction, asserting that the outcome of their own chess game remained uncertain.

He then declared that he possessed no "woman's softness." Afterward, Xiao Huan ordered his attendant to escort Ling Xuefeng to a side hall for the night. Concurrently, Ling Cangcang and Luo Xianxue stealthily entered the palace, seeking Li Lu's body to retrieve the dangerous Moon-Eclipse. Ling Cangcang emphasized that the Moon-Eclipse must be in her hands and ultimately destroyed to prevent it from ever harming the world. However, their actions were discovered.

Xiao Huan's men apprehended Luo Xianxue, and he was severely beaten. Although Xiao Huan felt a pang of heartache recalling Ling Cangcang's earlier words, he knew some matters required a cold, decisive hand. To save Luo Xianxue, Ling Cangcang attempted to seduce Xiao Huan. While she distracted him, Luo Xianxue, battered but free, made his escape. Ling Cangcang then returned the Emperor's Seal to Xiao Huan.

Enraged by her defiance, Xiao Huan confined her to her palace for three days, ordering her to kneel and copy sutras in repentance, and vowed that he would not spare Luo Xianxue. The situation in Xijiang deteriorated into warfare, plunging the populace into misery. General Ling Jueding swore to defend Jiangzhou against the invading Prince Kumor, who was disgruntled by the census decree and had besieged the city.

In the imperial court, Ling Xuefeng pressed Xiao Huan to focus on the border conflict. However, Xiao Qianqing argued that the locust plague in Xuzhou, which had severely impacted the autumn harvest and left state granaries with less than eight hundred thousand dan of grain, should be the primary concern to prevent civil unrest near the capital. Xiao Qianqing warned that deploying the Capital's guards to Jiangzhou would leave the capital vulnerable to the agitated Xuzhou victims.

Xiao Huan, feigning confidence in Ling Jueding's ability to hold Jiangzhou, subtly put Ling Xuefeng in a difficult position by implying that Ling Jueding, despite his esteemed Western Garrison, would be blamed if Jiangzhou fell. Xiao Huan then declared that he would prioritize relief for the Xuzhou disaster victims, acknowledging that both crises were dire and required careful consideration. Du Tingxin, observing Xiao Huan's strategy, realized he was intentionally forcing Ling Xuefeng's hand.

She understood that Ling Xuefeng planned to exploit both the border war and the internal disaster to spark a rebellion, and Xiao Huan was compelling him to protect Ling Jueding at all costs. Xiao Qianqing, meanwhile, saw no fault in his brother's actions, believing all lives mattered. He remained oblivious to his mother, the Empress Dowager's, secret machinations.

Determined to undermine Xiao Huan, the Empress Dowager arranged for the Empress to learn about Jiangzhou's plight and Xiao Huan's refusal to send reinforcements, hoping to sow discord between the imperial couple. While Ling Cangcang was still confined for copying sutras, the Empress Dowager's maid, Aunt Chan, delivered medicinal dishes and subtly informed her of the Jiangzhou crisis and Xiao Huan's refusal to send aid.

Overwhelmed with despair, Ling Cangcang rushed to Xiao Huan's palace, shouting through his door and demanding to know why he wouldn't help Jiangzhou. Du Tingxin advised Xiao Huan not to yield to emotion. When Xiao Huan finally confronted Ling Cangcang, he suggested her father, Ling Xuefeng, had sent her. Ling Cangcang vehemently denied this, asserting that her father would never manipulate her as Xiao Huan did. Xiao Huan then took her outside the palace where they found Luo Xianxue.

Ling Cangcang desperately shielded Luo Xianxue, declaring Xiao Huan would have to kill her first. Xiao Huan questioned her loyalty, asking why she cared for so many others but never for him, to which Ling Cangcang retorted by reminding him of how he had treated her when she "did" care. He then presented a cruel ultimatum: if she would personally kill Luo Xianxue, he would consider sending troops to Jiangzhou. Ling Cangcang was aghast, calling him "mad."

Xiao Huan then pressed her, demanding she choose between saving Luo Xianxue or her brother, Ling Jueding. Ling Cangcang was furious, accusing him of trifling with human lives and using her loved ones against her. Xiao Huan countered that she, too, was trifling with lives by blindly pressuring him to send troops to Jiangzhou, arguing that both Jiangzhou and Xuzhou were integral parts of Great Qi. He asserted that Ling Xuefeng had forced him into an impossible choice, and now he would demonstrate to Ling Xuefeng the true burden of "choosing between two."

Emperor Xiao Huan informed Ling Cangcang that since Grand Tutor Ling Xuefeng had forced him to make an impossible choice, he would now make Ling Xuefeng, through his daughter, experience the same profound difficulty. Ling Cangcang watched in shock as Ling Xuefeng cried out, declaring his innocence and claiming he had never forced the Emperor. Xiao Huan questioned Ling Xuefeng about the dilemma of saving the people of both Jiangzhou and Xuzhou, implying a difficult choice forced upon him.

As Luo Xianxue, adopted son of Ling Xuefeng, was about to face a harsh punishment, Ling Cangcang desperately pleaded with Xiao Huan to spare him, taking all blame upon herself. Luo Xianxue, unwilling to see Ling Cangcang and her family humiliate themselves further for his sake, deliberately set himself on fire, proclaiming that his death was insignificant as long as they would no longer be threatened. Xiao Huan was taken aback by Ling Xuefeng's extreme strategy.

He realized their conflict had reached a point of no return, a calculation by Ling Xuefeng to sacrifice a pawn to protect the king, but Xiao Huan knew he couldn't expose it because Ling Cangcang would never believe him. Meanwhile, Zhong Lin remembered her mentor Li Lu's last command to protect Ling Cangcang even at the cost of her life.

She proposed returning to Southern Chu to rebuild Fenglai Pavilion, but Ling Cangcang, feeling she could never be her old self, was reluctant. Later, Xiao Huan, learning that Ling Cangcang was standing on a high wall, rushed to her side, fearing she might jump.

He urged her to come down, but Ling Cangcang, feeling exhausted and defeated, confessed that she had once believed staying in the palace would allow her to protect those she cherished, but she now recognized her inability to do so. She blamed herself for her poor judgment, admitting she deserved the profound pain she was experiencing, and wondered if jumping would finally bring her freedom. Xiao Huan assured her he never intended to use her or cause Luo Xianxue's death.

He then expressed his desire for them to start anew, promising to wait patiently by her side until she willingly came to him. Elsewhere, Xiao Qianqing discovered Zhong Lin secretly carving an Imperial Seal and reviewing a palace defense map in his manor. Xiao Qianqing angrily confronted Zhong Lin, pointing out that such actions constituted a capital crime.

Zhong Lin, unfazed, stated she had no family to implicate and was determined to rescue Ling Cangcang from the palace, especially after receiving a message from her expressing her desire to leave. Zhong Lin then offered to help Xiao Qianqing claim Xiao Huan's throne in exchange for his assistance, declaring her strong dislike for anyone who brought sadness to Ling Cangcang. Xiao Qianqing, however, playfully responded that it "depended on his mood."

Ling Cangcang received an unusual token and quickly concealed it upon hearing of Xiao Huan's imminent arrival. When Xiao Huan came, he informed her that reinforcements would depart for Jiangzhou in three days. Ling Cangcang respectfully declined to attend the upcoming River-offering ceremony, citing her dislike for noisy gatherings.

Although surprised, Xiao Huan accepted her decision, instructing the Imperial Preceptor to proceed with the ceremony as planned and even suggesting a golden phoenix fireworks display, hoping it might make the Empress change her mind. The Imperial Preceptor questioned the point of the display, but Xiao Huan remained hopeful.

Xiao Qianqing approached Ling Cangcang, confirming that the token was an exit pass for the upcoming ceremony, explaining that he was helping her on Zhong Lin's behalf and also to weaken Xiao Huan's support from the Ling clan, thus furthering his own ambitions. Ling Cangcang, however, rejected his offer, not wanting Zhong Lin to owe him. She instead asked Xiao Qianqing to look after Zhong Lin and prevent her from searching for her, keeping her own destination a secret.

During the River-offering ceremony, Ling Cangcang, disguised as a dancer, performed a sword dance. Xiao Huan recognized her amongst the dancers and unexpectedly chose her to join him in the Emperor's banner rite, despite the Imperial Preceptor's objections about protocol. Xiao Huan insisted, stating he simply wished to stand with her as he offered sacrifices for the soldiers' safe return. After the ceremony, Ling Cangcang directly asked Xiao Huan to let her go.

Deeply saddened by her admission that life by his side was "worse than death," Xiao Huan, with a heavy heart, agreed to her request and let her leave. Du Tingxin, observing Xiao Huan's visible grief, questioned why he would let Ling Cangcang go despite his profound affection, remarking that she had never seen him show such deep emotion before.

Xiao Huan explained that Ling Cangcang sought freedom, a luxury he had never known, and he did not wish for her to become imprisoned like himself. As Ling Cangcang departed, he let her know that he was aware of her desire to go to Jiangzhou and granted her permission.

Heartbroken, Xiao Huan penned a sorrowful poem and, to explain Ling Cangcang's absence, declared that the Empress was suffering from head pains and recovering in an outer palace, forbidding anyone from seeing her while he grieved in solitude. Du Tingxin, witnessing his anguish, secretly vowed that if Ling Cangcang ever caused him pain again, she would not allow her to live in peace.

Xiao Huan later instructed an attendant to deliver the Phoenix Seal to Ling Cangcang, emphasizing that she would forever remain the Empress of Great Qi, regardless of her acceptance. When the attendant tried to deliver the seal, Ling Cangcang questioned the notion of an empress who had left the palace. Despite letting her go, Xiao Huan continued to secretly inquire about Ling Cangcang's well-being.

Du Tingxin overheard him learning that the Empress had joined the westbound relief army, which caused her immense pain and a sleepless night. Meanwhile, in Jiangzhou, Kumor, the King of Xijiang, urged his soldiers to launch a decisive attack to capture the city. General Ling Jueding heroically defended the city gate, prepared to sacrifice himself. At the critical moment, Ling Cangcang arrived and deflected an arrow just as reinforcements finally appeared, forcing Kumor to realize their inevitable defeat.

As enemy reinforcements arrived, Kumor's subordinate informed him of the "darn emperor's" army. Recognizing it was not the time to pursue, Kumor commanded his soldiers to retreat ten li. Meanwhile, Ling Jueding, still nursing a battlefield injury, was startled by Ling Cangcang's arrival. He quickly dismissed his attendants and confronted her, criticizing her recklessness as the Empress, questioning how she could come to such a dangerous place and if her father and His Majesty were aware.

Ling Cangcang calmly replied that she had come without her father's knowledge, and the opinions of others were irrelevant. She expressed immense relief at seeing her brother safe. Ling Jueding, observing her demeanor, sensed her deep sorrow and accused His Majesty of bullying her, asserting that the Emperor was calculating and only using her for his own political gain, caring nothing for her safety. Ling Jueding regretted not intervening during her forced marriage, recalling her long-held desire for freedom.

He lamented that if he had known her life would turn out this way, he would have risked his own life to free her from her "cage." Ling Cangcang, however, dismissed his regrets, reminding him that some things were beyond their control. When Ling Jueding insisted on sending her back to the capital for her safety, she adamantly refused, declaring she was no longer a helpless woman.

She argued that Jiangzhou desperately needed manpower and, having some military knowledge, she was determined to stay and assist him. Back in the capital, an agitated Ling Xuefeng was informed that Ling Cangcang had arrived in Jiangzhou with the westbound army and was currently in General Ling Jueding's camp. He was furious that he, her father, had been kept in the dark, breaking his brush in anger.

Meanwhile, a report reached Xiao Huan that Jiangzhou had achieved a great victory with the arrival of reinforcements, forcing Kumor to retreat ten li. Intelligence also indicated Kumor was reassembling his troops for a counterattack. Xiao Huan decided it was time to advance his own plans. In Jiangzhou, Ling Cangcang and Ling Jueding discussed strategy. Ling Cangcang pointed out that while reinforcements provided temporary relief, more lasting solutions were needed.

Considering the severe snow disaster in Xijiang, which also left Kumor's army short on supplies, she proposed striking Kumor's supply lines to force a retreat. She analyzed the terrain, noting Kumor's Black Tiger Army had charged smoothly into Jiangzhou but had a swamp to their east and Qianlai Valley, a known bottleneck, to their rear. She deduced that Kumor likely transported supplies via water to Sand City, making it a key military supply point.

She suggested a night raid not to conquer Sand City, but to seize their grain, which would relieve Jiangzhou's civilians and soldiers and hasten the war's end. She volunteered to lead the raid. Ling Cangcang led a small team to infiltrate Sand City. They quickly secured the main house. Inside, they found a woman named Minmin, who claimed to be an abducted refugee and offered to reveal the grain's location in exchange for safe passage. Ling Cangcang agreed.

However, as Ling Cangcang and her soldiers began loading the grain, she grew suspicious, finding the ease of the operation and Minmin's story too convenient. She ordered her troops to erase their cart tracks as they withdrew. After the Qi forces left, Minmin revealed her true identity as the Sand City Lord, scoffing at her own soldiers' incompetence and ordering the release of captured refugees, informing them there was now food. Kumor's pursuing troops found no clear tracks.

Minmin eventually caught up to Ling Cangcang alone. Ling Cangcang confronted her, revealing she had seen through Minmin's deception due to her fresh whip marks, too-feminine room decor, and the suspiciously erased tracks. Minmin admitted her trickery, and the two engaged in a fierce fight. During the struggle, Minmin threatened to kill a refugee to make Ling Cangcang surrender. Faced with the choice of killing innocents or giving up, Ling Cangcang yielded.

Ling Cangcang was brought before Kumor, who immediately recognized her as the person who had shot him during the initial siege. Ling Cangcang defiantly stated that if her life could bring an end to Kumor's supplies, it would be a worthwhile sacrifice. Kumor ordered her executed as a sacrifice to the war flag, along with other captured Qi soldiers.

But just as the execution was about to commence, Ling Cangcang intervened, asserting that she alone was responsible for stealing the grain. She challenged Kumor's reputation, calling him a "coward who slaughters innocents." Kumor, enraged, personally engaged her in combat. During their fight, Ling Cangcang's Phoenix Seal accidentally fell from her person. Startled by its appearance, she was momentarily distracted and captured.

Kumor, seeing the Phoenix Seal and realizing Ling Cangcang was a woman and the Empress, rescinded the order for sacrifice, recognizing her as a valuable bargaining chip. Minmin questioned what to do about the grain, but Kumor, holding the Empress, declared that with such a "generous gift from the Emperor of Great Qi," they would soon have all the grain they needed, and the war might even conclude swiftly.

Ling Cangcang insisted the Phoenix Seal was not hers, but Kumor ignored her and ordered her taken away. Far away in the capital, Xiao Huan awoke from a nightmare, deeply disturbed, sensing Ling Cangcang was in danger. Soon after, he received the battle report and a letter from Kumor, which included the Empress's Phoenix Seal. He acknowledged that Kumor perceived this as an opportunity, but Xiao Huan viewed it as a potential turning point for Xijiang.

Xiao Huan then met with Du Tingxin. She noted his distracted state and the urgency of Ling Xuefeng's presence outside while he chose to play chess with her. Xiao Huan revealed that Kumor had captured his empress. Du Tingxin expressed concern about the precarious war situation. Xiao Huan proposed personally going to Xijiang to negotiate with Kumor.

Du Tingxin vehemently opposed this, emphasizing that the empire's fate rested on him and such a dangerous solo journey could lead to unthinkable consequences. When asked who would be a suitable envoy, Du Tingxin dismissed Ling Xuefeng and Xiao Qianqing as having conflicting interests that could harm Great Qi. Instead, she courageously volunteered herself to serve as the imperial envoy to Xijiang. Touched by her dedication, Xiao Huan asked for the Yushu Pill, a potent medicine.

Du Tingxin warned him that it could suppress his cold poison only temporarily and might even accelerate his death. Xiao Huan acknowledged the risk but insisted he needed to endure this critical period of internal and external crises. He then rebuked Du Tingxin for questioning why he had given the life-saving medicine to the Empress. Du Tingxin knelt and apologized for overstepping. Xiao Huan, acknowledging her loyalty, reiterated his request for the Yushu Pill.

She complied, providing the pill with a warning not to use inner force and vowing to find a cure for him, but expressed fear if the poison reached his heart. Xiao Huan assured her he was fine and stressed the importance of her mission to Xijiang. Later, Ling Xuefeng, who had been made to wait for three hours, finally gained an audience with Xiao Huan.

Ling Xuefeng feigned concern for the Empress, claiming she was recuperating at the outer palace and asking to visit her. Xiao Huan coldly informed him that the Empress's condition had worsened and she was unable to see visitors.

Ling Xuefeng then shifted tactics, subtly trying to guilt-trip Xiao Huan by recounting a childhood memory: how Ling Cangcang had once secretly entered the palace, found a feverish Xiao Huan, and comforted him, calling him "the chosen one" destined to be the Emperor. Ling Xuefeng claimed this incident solidified his belief in their "match made in heaven" and his decision to support Xiao Huan's ascension.

Xiao Huan, seeing through the facade, sarcastically commented on Ling Xuefeng's "fatherly love," hinting that the pear blossom honey Ling Xuefeng sent was the source of the Empress's poison. He accused Ling Xuefeng of valuing the Jiangzhou military command more than Ling Cangcang's life, pointing out that Ling Jueding, if he learned of his sister's capture, might act recklessly, jeopardizing his general position and allowing Ling Xuefeng to seize control.

Ling Xuefeng, surprised, asked if Xiao Huan had no genuine feelings for the Empress. Xiao Huan revealed his plan to inform Kumor that the Phoenix Seal had been stolen, demonstrating that he could not be threatened. Ling Xuefeng worried this would lead Kumor to kill Ling Cangcang.

Xiao Huan then presented Ling Xuefeng with a choice: if Ling Jueding, acting on a desperate impulse, won against Kumor, the Xijiang crisis would be averted; if he lost, Ling Xuefeng could reclaim military control over Jiangzhou. Displeased with this, Ling Xuefeng implicitly accepted Xiao Huan's final proposition to name Xiao Qianqing as regent during his absence.

Xiao Huan then met with Xiao Qianqing, telling him that the Empress had been captured and he would personally retrieve her, appointing Xiao Qianqing as regent during his absence. Xiao Qianqing understood that Xiao Huan was strategically using him to counter Ling Xuefeng's influence. He questioned Xiao Huan's true motives, expressing skepticism about his concern for Ling Cangcang and believing all his plans revolved around consolidating imperial power.

Xiao Huan acknowledged that his throne was hard-won and had to be protected, but he also emphasized that this was Xiao Qianqing's closest opportunity to the throne, urging him to cherish it. Xiao Qianqing accepted the regency. Xiao Huan presented him with a silk pouch, instructing him to open it when the "time was right." After Xiao Qianqing left, Xiao Huan's attendant expressed concern about entrusting the regency to Xiao Qianqing.

Xiao Huan reassured him, explaining that Xiao Qianqing's intelligence would ensure a fierce power struggle with Ling Xuefeng, ultimately benefiting Xiao Huan. He also expressed a deeper trust in Xiao Qianqing, believing that his "conscience had not yet faded" and that he would never abandon the people of Xuzhou.

Emperor Xiao Huan, claiming to be gravely ill and unable to govern, issued an imperial decree appointing his brother, Xiao Qianqing, Prince of Yuzhang, as Regent. Xiao Qianqing was thereby granted full authority over rewards and punishments, as well as all military and state affairs. Following this proclamation, Xiao Huan, in disguise, embarked on an arduous journey to rescue Ling Cangcang. During his first court session as Regent, Xiao Qianqing, Prince of Yuzhang, presided from the throne.

A minister, Xing, boldly suggested that the Emperor's current illness and recent misfortunes in the palace were due to an incompatibility in his and the Empress's astrological signs. Another minister vehemently refuted this, asserting the Emperor's poor health stemmed from recent natural and man-made disasters, not the Empress. Xiao Qianqing intervened, declaring an end to such "idle talk" about the imperial couple and redirecting attention to Kumor's ongoing siege of Jiangzhou.

Grand Tutor Ling Xuefeng concurred, emphasizing the critical situation in Jiangzhou and pressing Xiao Qianqing to swiftly dispatch the second batch of relief grain. However, when a minister reported the worsening locust plague in Xuzhou and the depletion of aid, Xiao Qianqing claimed to be suffering from a terrible headache and abruptly adjourned the court, deferring further discussion on the grain supply.

Following the abrupt adjournment, some ministers expressed their discontent to Grand Tutor Ling Xuefeng, criticizing Xiao Qianqing for prioritizing the Xuzhou locust plague over the pressing military needs of Jiangzhou, especially since the Jiangzhou grain had been personally secured by Ling Xuefeng. Ling Xuefeng, however, dismissed their suggestions of lodging a formal complaint with the Emperor.

Instead, he dispatched a subordinate to Xuzhou with a stern instruction for the local governor: regardless of the true situation, the official report sent back to the capital must unequivocally state that the locust plague had receded. Ling Xuefeng privately mused that since Xiao Qianqing was so keen on Xuzhou's disaster, he would give him a "pleasing answer." Xiao Qianqing later visited his mother, the Empress Dowager, who immediately inquired if Ling Xuefeng had troubled him during court.

Xiao Qianqing confidently replied that he would not tolerate such disrespect, unlike his more lenient imperial brother. The Empress Dowager expressed surprise at Xiao Huan's decision to appoint Xiao Qianqing as Regent, interpreting it as a possible strategy to create a power struggle between him and Ling Xuefeng. She warned her son to be cautious and not allow himself to be manipulated.

She also relayed her concern about Xiao Huan's apparent severe illness, which she witnessed the previous night, noting his tightly guarded hot spring retreat and the lack of information. She speculated Xiao Huan was using the regency as a ploy to make Xiao Qianqing commit errors, thereby justifying his exile back to Southern Chu. Xiao Qianqing, however, remained self-assured, asserting his capability and declaring he would not be easily controlled by his brother again.

Changing the subject from his brother, Xiao Qianqing inquired about his sister, Princess Xiao Ying. Meanwhile, Hongqing was confronted by a temperamental Xiao Ying, who refused to eat. She excitedly presented him with a jar of snake-repelling powder she had concocted, claiming her extensive research on venomous snakes allowed her to create it.

Hongqing, however, was stern, reminding her that Guard Wang Xiong had nearly lost his life from a snake bite because of her "research," and accused her of reckless endangerment. Xiao Ying tearfully defended herself, insisting that Guard Wang had claimed to be fearless of snakes due to his Southern upbringing, and she had even provided him with protective measures, never intending any harm. Distressed by Hongqing's accusations, she began to lash out, claiming everyone was trying to hurt her.

The Empress Dowager then advised Xiao Qianqing to firmly establish his position at court, as her and Xiao Ying's security depended on it. She urged him to exploit his temporary regency to eliminate Ling Xuefeng, suggesting that escalating disasters could create opportunities, but stressed the importance of discretion. Upon being informed that Eunuch Feng was waiting to usher him to review memorials, Xiao Qianqing bid his mother farewell.

When Xiao Qianqing visited Xiao Ying, she presented him with new poisons, urging him to test them on Xiao Huan. He gently asked her to promise not to use poisons to harm people. Distressed, Xiao Ying felt misunderstood, believing everyone thought she intended to kill. She insisted her only target was Xiao Huan, and implored Xiao Qianqing to believe in her inherent goodness. She also complained about Hongqing's continued anger over Guard Wang's snakebite, which she believed wasn't her fault.

Xiao Qianqing, understanding her affection for Hongqing, playfully suggested punishing Hongqing or even making him her "brother-in-law." Xiao Ying denied liking him in that way, so Xiao Qianqing promised to bring Hongqing to apologize. As he was leaving, Xiao Ying asked for some silver, claiming it was for a "very important" use. Ling Cangcang, held captive by Kumor's forces, was offered food by Kumor. She sarcastically remarked on his hospitality, given that she had previously stolen his army's grain.

Ling Cangcang continued to insist she was not the Empress, but her claim was countered by Kumor presenting the Phoenix Seal. Quick-witted, she claimed she had "stolen it" while attempting to procure a different, more valuable item (the Lingbi Sect leader's token) from the Emperor, then spun a tale about accidentally joining the army to earn her military pay before escaping. Kumor dismissed her stories as unbelievable.

During a separate, tense exchange with Kumor's sister, Kuminjia, Ling Cangcang accused her of using "dirty tricks," to which Kuminjia retorted that Ling Cangcang was no stranger to such methods herself. Unfazed, Ling Cangcang taunted Kumor about his army's month-long unsuccessful siege of Jiangzhou, implying his reliance on her as a "hostage Empress" showed weakness.

Kumor remained unperturbed, revealing he had received word that Great Qi's envoys would arrive in five days for peace talks, at which point Ling Cangcang's true identity would be clarified. Kuminjia found Ling Cangcang amusing and expressed regret that she was a woman, otherwise she would have asked her brother to spare Ling Cangcang for her own amusement.

General Lu Qi informed Preceptor Du Tingxin that their Qingyu Guard, a light cavalry unit of less than a hundred, could reach Jiangzhou in three days with continuous marching. However, Du Tingxin ordered a delay, instructing the troops to rest for the entire next day and only depart mid-morning the day after that.

When General Lu Qi questioned the delay, citing the urgency of the situation and the "vital" hostage held by Kumor (referring to Ling Cangcang), Du Tingxin explained her strategy: by making Kumor wait, she intended to dampen his aggressive spirit, believing he would then be more inclined to negotiate peace with Great Qi. She also reasoned that since Kumor suspected Ling Cangcang was the Empress, he would not harm her, making her a valuable bargaining chip.

Therefore, a slight delay in her arrival would only serve to strengthen their negotiating position. Back at the palace, Xiao Qianqing reluctantly returned to the task of reviewing memorials. He quickly grew bored, dismissing many as trivial, like reports on lychee harvests or perfunctory inquiries about the Emperor's health. He realized his imperial brother had indeed left him to handle all the "hard labor."

Reading a report from the Xuzhou governor claiming the locust plague was under control and the populace well-fed, Xiao Qianqing ironically noted Ling Xuefeng's "efficiency" in getting such news to the capital. Declaring himself tired, he announced his intention to relax at the hot spring retreat and instructed Eunuch Feng to tell Hongqing that if he wanted the memorials reviewed, he would have to fetch Xiao Qianqing himself.

Eunuch Feng, unable to persuade Xiao Qianqing, was forced to send Hongqing to the hot spring retreat. Upon Hongqing's arrival, Xiao Qianqing was already bathing. Zhong Lin had found her way in, demanding to know Ling Cangcang's true whereabouts, dismissing Xiao Qianqing's past promises as "worthless." In a playful yet exasperated move, Xiao Qianqing pulled her into the bathing pool.

Just then, Hongqing entered, catching a glimpse of a woman before Xiao Qianqing hastily submerged Zhong Lin and barked at Hongqing to leave. After Hongqing left, Xiao Qianqing pleaded with Zhong Lin to undertake a mission to Xuzhou. Zhong Lin initially refused, insisting her priority was to find Ling Cangcang, whose whereabouts were unknown. Xiao Qianqing then revealed that Ling Cangcang was actually in Jiangzhou, with Xiao Huan already en route to rescue her, alleviating Zhong Lin's immediate concern.

He then explained that the escalating disaster in Xuzhou was intrinsically linked to the crisis in Jiangzhou, implying that resolving the former was crucial to saving the latter. Zhong Lin initially dismissed this as "nonsense," but Xiao Qianqing appealed to her sense of justice, reminding her of Fenglai Pavilion's founding principles of "upholding justice and punishing evil." Convinced, Zhong Lin agreed to go to Xuzhou to obtain a written confession from the corrupt governor.

Xiao Qianqing, relieved, gave her a piece of clothing and solemnly declared that his "life and everything he had" now rested in her hands. After Zhong Lin departed, Hongqing once again urged Xiao Qianqing to return to the palace. Xiao Qianqing, however, stated he was in a foul mood due to a "vexing matter" concerning Princess Xiao Ying, and implied Hongqing was involved.

He passionately defended Xiao Ying, describing her as inherently kind and innocent, despite her occasional unpredictable behavior, and asserted his unwavering belief that she would never intentionally harm innocent people. Hongqing, realizing his misjudgment, expressed remorse. Xiao Qianqing further explained that Xiao Ying's pure heart made her especially susceptible to hurt from those she cherished.

He then suggested a remedy for his own mood: Hongqing should go to Xiao Ying, making every effort to cheer her up, hinting that only then would he be inclined to resume his regent duties. Hongqing readily agreed to apologize to the princess. Hongqing sought out Xiao Ying and sincerely apologized for his previous misunderstanding.

Xiao Ying, in turn, offered him the silver she had received from her brother, along with her most cherished trinkets, requesting he give the money to Guard Wang, as she felt responsible for his injury despite his initial deception. She then asked Hongqing if he would cease being angry with her and promised to heed his advice on her actions. Hongqing encouraged her to follow her own heart.

Xiao Ying then revealed she remembered Hongqing saving her during a fire at the Crown Prince's Hall, where he had shielded her with his arm. She confessed to biting him then, as a way to ensure she would recognize and find him later. She pledged to treat him well now that she had found him, deeply touching Hongqing, who humbly replied that it was merely his duty as an Imperial Guard.

Meanwhile, Ling Xuefeng confronted Xiao Qianqing again, asserting that with the Xuzhou situation reportedly under control, there was no longer any reason to delay the release of grain for Jiangzhou. Xiao Qianqing, however, maintained his stance, stating he would only issue the grain after the Ministry of Revenue completed its inventory and he personally verified the count, a process he estimated would take "seven or eight days."

He attempted to reassure Ling Xuefeng by mentioning that Preceptor Du Tingxin had departed with ample provisions, which should address Jiangzhou's immediate needs. Unconvinced, Ling Xuefeng insisted that this was merely a temporary solution and firmly declared he would return in three days, expecting Xiao Qianqing's official decree to release the grain.

Xiao Huan tirelessly searched for Ling Cangcang, eventually locating Kumor's camp. His scouts reported that the camp, nestled among mountains, was formidable, described as "easy to defend and hard to attack," with "defenses. . . extremely tight." They had found no openings to infiltrate. Xiao Huan inquired about Ling Cangcang, and his subordinate assured him that Kumor, awaiting a peace delegation, was unlikely to harm her. However, the delegation had "not arrived at the appointed time."

Hearing that Ling Jueding had remained "in the military camp and made no move," Xiao Huan noted his prudence, understanding that any action would "expose Cangcang's identity." Meanwhile, inside the camp, Kuminjia expressed frustration to Kumor, questioning "what that darn emperor, Xiao Huan, is trying to pull," as he had promised a delegation within five days, yet it was already the eighth.

Kumor, with Ling Cangcang in their custody, saw no reason to panic, believing Xiao Huan was merely trying to "test our patience." Kuminjia, however, found Ling Cangcang's account convincing, saying it "didn't sound like lies." Remembering a past deception that led to the loss of their provisions, Kumor reminded her of the maxim, "there's never too much deception in war," and suggested Kuminjia "test her" herself if she was so curious.

Later, Xiao Huan secretly met with Ling Jueding, who formally greeted him. Kuminjia, acting on Kumor's suggestion, invited Ling Cangcang for a stroll. Ling Cangcang, seeing an opportunity to "get familiar with the terrain," readily agreed. Kuminjia tried to probe her identity, complimenting her new outfit. Ling Cangcang playfully responded that "eating well and sleeping well" as a prisoner was "far better than wandering homeless."

Kuminjia found her "slick talk, lies upon lies," suspicious, especially her insistence on being a thief. Ling Cangcang challenged her to "treat me as the Empress," and Kuminjia's suspicion grew. When Kuminjia tried to link Ling Cangcang's surname to Ling Jueding, Ling Cangcang deceived her by claiming their surnames were different, highlighting Kuminjia's ignorance of Great Qi's commander.

Ling Cangcang then apologized for "speaking out of turn" and vowed to "follow" Kuminjia's lead, cementing Kuminjia's belief that Ling Cangcang was merely an "adaptable" common thief. Kuminjia then led Ling Cangcang to Ling Jueding's camp, openly "provoking them" during the truce. Despite Ling Cangcang's warning, Kuminjia pressed on.

Observing Ling Cangcang present at the gates, Ling Jueding, realizing her true identity, grimly ordered arrows to be loosed, declaring that "precisely why I have to do this" is because "it's her." Just as Ling Cangcang was about to be struck, Xiao Huan dramatically intervened, saving her. He then gave Ling Jueding a subtle signal and took Kuminjia back to their camp. Kumor separated Xiao Huan and Ling Cangcang for questioning.

Kuminjia felt a sense of gratitude, arguing that repaying their saviors with cruelty would be wrong. During the interrogation, Ling Cangcang claimed Xiao Huan was her "old flame" from the martial world, a former hall master of her "Fenglai Pavilion" who "kept pestering me." She painted him as having "ulterior motives," while Xiao Huan exaggerated his devotion and their shared adventures, such as rescuing children and risking his life.

They claimed incompatibility led to their breakup, and Xiao Huan was merely "chasing after her." Kumor found their perfectly matching stories "too much of a coincidence," but Kuminjia pointed out that their genuine surprise at seeing each other during the earlier provocation, and Xiao Huan's ignorance of Ling Cangcang's later actions (stealing the Phoenix Seal, joining the army), proved they hadn't coordinated. Kumor, still wary, ordered both taken away.

Kumor then brought Ling Cangcang outside, revealing Xiao Huan tied to a pillar, exposed to the freezing conditions. He challenged Ling Cangcang's feigned indifference, asking if she could "bear to watch him suffer," given he "risked his life to save her." Ling Cangcang, maintaining her facade, coldly declared she was a prisoner herself, unable to care for others, and had "nothing to do with him."

When Kumor offered to release Xiao Huan if she begged, Ling Cangcang shrewdly asked if the same applied to her release, to which Kumor replied, "That's unlikely." Ling Cangcang then reiterated her complete detachment from Xiao Huan, leaving him to Kumor's judgment. Kumor, noting the stark contrast—Xiao Huan's deep devotion versus Ling Cangcang's feigned indifference—left Xiao Huan tied to the pillar. Later, Kuminjia visited Ling Cangcang, dramatically stating that Xiao Huan was "about to die" from the cold.

Ling Cangcang, still playing her role, dismissed him as a "former lover" whose fate held "no relevance" to her, adding that she wouldn't "bring unnecessary trouble" upon herself. Kuminjia, admiring Xiao Huan's "handsome" looks, "skilled" martial arts, and "absolutely devoted" nature, challenged Ling Cangcang, saying she couldn't possibly "feel nothing at all." Ling Cangcang retorted that "life is short" and "living each day well is what truly matters," outcomes being irrelevant.

Kuminjia, misinterpreting this as pity, declared her own interest in Xiao Huan, offering to take him if Ling Cangcang truly didn't want him, as she didn't "care about outcomes anyway." Ling Cangcang readily agreed, though slyly mentioning Kumor was probably freezing him to death. Kuminjia confidently stated that wouldn't happen while she was there. Ling Cangcang watched Kuminjia leave, thinking she had done all she could for Xiao Huan.

Kuminjia then found Xiao Huan, tied to the pillar, seemingly "looking at the stars," which he described as "especially bright." He confessed it had been two years since he had "last looked up properly." Kuminjia found his behavior "unbelievable" given his predicament, but Xiao Huan mused that being "under the same sky" as Ling Cangcang was "a kind of bond" and a "rare blessing" for which he wouldn't "hope for anything more."

Kuminjia, impressed by his "easy to satisfy" nature despite Ling Cangcang's apparent rejection, draped her cloak over him and vowed to speak to Kumor on his behalf. Despite Kuminjia's plea for Xiao Huan, Kumor intended for him to stay out "for a few more nights," acknowledging he had "underestimated" Xiao Huan's resilience. Kuminjia protested fiercely, reminding Kumor that Xiao Huan was her "savior."

Kumor, teasing if she had "taken a liking to him," eventually allowed Xiao Huan to be taken to a tent with hot water and herbal medicine to recover, but maintained that his fate would be decided "after the delegation comes." Kumor still harbored a slight suspicion about Ling Cangcang's identity. Soon after, the "delegation from Great Qi" arrived, led by Imperial Preceptor Du Tingxin, who formally greeted Kumor.

Kumor, testing her, pointed to Ling Cangcang and demanded Du Tingxin "kneel before your empress." Du Tingxin denied Ling Cangcang was the Empress, presenting a letter from Xiao Huan confirming the true Empress was "safe and sound" in the palace. The letter stated the delegation's purpose: to retrieve the "stolen Phoenix Seal," reclaim "captives," and "negotiate terms for peace."

Du Tingxin then denounced Ling Cangcang as the "thief" who stole the Phoenix Seal and ordered her taken to Jiangzhou for punishment. Kumor, however, proposed they follow Xijiang custom: "a thief's right hand is chopped off in public and thrown in the wilderness to feed the wolves." Du Tingxin readily agreed. When asked if she had anything to say, Ling Cangcang calmly stated that "to the Imperial Preceptor, I am indeed a thief. . . I have nothing to say."

Kumor then invited Du Tingxin to perform the execution. Du Tingxin, with noticeable "resolve" despite average inner force, ordered guards to "hold the thief down." Kumor, observing Du Tingxin's fervent desire to harm Ling Cangcang, paused the execution, declaring that Ling Cangcang's "matter can wait," and shifted to "real business." He scoffed at the 3,128 liang of gold Du Tingxin brought, dismissing it as "a bit of money," and demanded the abolition of Great Qi's "status verification system."

Du Tingxin insisted it was a "national policy" for stability, which Kumor vehemently disagreed with, calling it "the very cause of chaos." Du Tingxin promised to report Kumor's "thoughts" to the Emperor, but stated it was "not for me to decide." Kumor declared he would only consider troop withdrawal after the system was abolished. Despite his strong demands, Kumor accepted the gold. Du Tingxin then demanded the captives, the Phoenix Seal, and Ling Cangcang.

Kumor, deeming her "a bit too greedy," offered her the captives and a choice between the Phoenix Seal and Ling Cangcang. Without hesitation, Du Tingxin chose the Phoenix Seal, telling Kumor to "chop off her hand and feed it to the wolves for me."

Ling Cangcang, hearing Du Tingxin's cold choice, reflected that the Imperial Preceptor "never intended to take me away," possibly following Xiao Huan's secret orders, but she quickly dismissed such thoughts, reminding herself she was "no longer the Empress." Her priority was now to use her time to "learn the Black Tiger Army's defenses" and hoped Du Tingxin would at least inform Ling Jueding of her safety.

Kumor, still questioning her identity, admitted a "tiny bit of doubt" but found "no reason to believe you are" the Empress. However, he was clearly displeased with Du Tingxin's callousness during the negotiations. As a result, Kumor released the war captives with Du Tingxin but kept Ling Cangcang, deciding to treat her and Xiao Huan as "honored guests" within the camp, granting them "freedom" inside but threatening severe consequences if they attempted to leave.

He promised to see them off after the war. Ling Cangcang, accepting her new confinement, asked why he didn't simply kill her now that her "Empress" status was disproven. Kumor replied, "I can't bear to," expressing admiration for her as a "woman of honor" who "stole provisions to save the people." He vowed to keep his word. Back in Ling Jueding's camp, he desperately sought news of Ling Cangcang from Du Tingxin.

Du Tingxin informed him that "Her Majesty is not with us" because, when forced to choose between the captives and herself, Ling Cangcang "would rather die than admit who she was." So, Du Tingxin retrieved only the Phoenix Seal and the captives, offering platitudes that "Heaven will watch over her" and that she would "pray for her safety." Ling Jueding was visibly disheartened. Meanwhile, Kuminjia found Ling Cangcang in her tent.

Kuminjia complained about her own duties, lamenting that despite her status as a princess, she still had to "clean the stables" because her brother insisted that in the army, there were "only soldiers." Ling Cangcang was resigned to her own confinement. Kuminjia, still fixated on Xiao Huan, disregarded Ling Cangcang's pleas not to discuss him, saying he "cares for you deeply." Ling Cangcang, maintaining her "ulterior motives" story, tried to shut down the conversation.

Kuminjia, however, observed Ling Cangcang's "bitter" tone and perceived "grudges," concluding that Ling Cangcang "still have feelings for him," and that her "anger comes from love." Xiao Huan, secretly listening nearby, quietly slipped away after hearing this.

Kuminjia found Ling Cangcang at the stables and invited her to brush horses together. Kuminjia observed that Ling Cangcang's bitterness towards Xiao Huan betrayed a deeper affection, suggesting her anger stemmed from love. Just then, Xiao Huan, still disguised as Mr. Bai, arrived, and Kuminjia included him in the horse brushing. Kuminjia playfully urged Ling Cangcang to stop hiding, saying her avoidance only proved she still cared for Xiao Huan.

While brushing horses, Xiao Huan covertly gathered intelligence from a soldier about General Kumor's nightly camp inspections. Later, Ling Cangcang confronted Xiao Huan, questioning why he hadn't left with Preceptor Du and implying he had ulterior motives for remaining. Xiao Huan, hurt, asked if she truly saw him as such a schemer. Ling Cangcang retorted that he always approached her with an agenda, leaving her to wonder what he was after this time.

Xiao Huan offered to find a way to get her out of the camp, but Ling Cangcang insisted she had her own reasons for staying and advised him to return to the capital, as court affairs were pressing. Under the cover of night, Xiao Huan stealthily entered Kumor's main tent and discovered it was rigged with defensive mechanisms. To his surprise, he found Ling Cangcang there, also on a mission.

Realizing they shared the same objective, Xiao Huan quickly warned her about the dangers and insisted on disarming the traps himself. As Kumor's return was imminent, Xiao Huan urged Ling Cangcang to escape with the now-memorized military deployment map, while he would create a diversion. However, before they could act, a signal arrow—part of a pre-arranged plan—flew across the sky, drawing Kumor's attention and diverting his patrol. This allowed them to evade detection.

Back in her tent, Ling Cangcang recreated the map from memory. She later reminded Xiao Huan that she was the one who had promised to deliver the map to Ling Jueding. Xiao Huan then revealed his broader strategy: he planned to leave the map in a designated spot for Ling Jueding, but not for an attack. Instead, he wanted Ling Jueding to cooperate with the Xiaoxing Guards to end the conflict with minimal bloodshed.

He explained that Kumor was not a tyrannical leader but a lord fighting for his people, driven by a harsh snow disaster and an unfair registry system. Ling Cangcang realized the recent signal arrow was part of this elaborate, covert operation. She accused Xiao Huan of keeping too many secrets from her, but he claimed he never had a chance to tell her, a point she contested.

Despite their bickering, Xiao Huan remarked on their aligned goals, calling it a "wavelength," which Ling Cangcang quickly dismissed. He then somberly asked if her hatred would persist if he were no longer alive. Ling Cangcang, masking her concern, called him a "scoundrel who lives long" and vowed not to visit his grave, challenging him to stay alive. She then declared that she would ensure the map was delivered, but after this, they should cease all involvement with each other.

When she told him to stay if he wished and tried to leave the tent herself, Xiao Huan noted the cold outside and insisted that as it was her tent, he should be the one to go. As Xiao Huan and Ling Cangcang's tense conversation continued, Princess Kuminjia unexpectedly entered the tent, expressing concern about a rumored sneak attack. Kuminjia was momentarily startled when she spotted Xiao Huan hiding, but quickly apologized for interrupting.

After Kuminjia left, Ling Cangcang angrily told Xiao Huan to leave, but he argued that an immediate departure would expose their fake relationship. He insisted on staying a while longer to maintain the illusion. Ling Cangcang reiterated that their current cooperation was merely circumstantial and he shouldn't misinterpret her actions. She made it clear that after she helped him with the map, she wanted him to stay away. Later, Kuminjia found Xiao Huan looking dejected.

She asked about Ling Cangcang, wondering if they had reconciled. Xiao Huan explained that Ling Cangcang was upset because he had promised to take her to see Xijiang's beautiful grasslands and snow mountains but never fulfilled it. Kuminjia suggested they go now, but Xiao Huan mentioned Kumor's order against leaving the camp. Kuminjia, dismissing it during a truce, offered to accompany them.

Xiao Huan was doubtful, believing Ling Cangcang's resentment would prevent her from agreeing, to which Kuminjia playfully remarked that Xiao Huan clearly didn't understand women. Kuminjia then invited Ling Cangcang to join her and Mr. Bai (Xiao Huan) on a hunting trip. Ling Cangcang immediately recognized this as a perfect opportunity to deliver the map. Kuminjia proposed a hunting contest: the winner would have "Mr. Bai" wait on them that night.

Ling Cangcang accepted, seemingly indifferent, and told Kuminjia that if she won, she could have him wait on her. Kuminjia playfully pressed Ling Cangcang, asking if she truly didn't care or was just jealous, hinting at their shared night in the tent. Ling Cangcang vehemently denied any jealousy. Xiao Huan quickly interjected, saying he was "hers" and so she wouldn't be jealous, further irritating Ling Cangcang. He then whispered that she wouldn't want Kuminjia to see through their charade.

Kuminjia, finding their exchange amusing, declared she was only teasing and didn't actually want him to wait on her, before leading them out. During the hunting trip, Xiao Huan had to find a way to shake off the trailing soldiers to deliver the map. Kuminjia, still playing matchmaker, encouraged Xiao Huan to prove himself to Ling Cangcang. Ling Cangcang, feigning disinterest, joked that Xiao Huan might not be a match for them.

Kuminjia proposed a hunting contest, reminding Xiao Huan that if he lost, he would have to stop pursuing Ling Cangcang. Xiao Huan agreed to the terms: catch the most game within half an hour and return on time. General Kumor joined them, casually inquiring about "Mr. Bai." As the time neared its end, Ling Cangcang grew worried about Xiao Huan's prolonged absence, fearing Kumor might uncover their true identities.

However, Xiao Huan eventually returned with an impressive haul of game, dispelling any potential suspicion. Kumor openly admired his exceptional riding and archery skills. Kumor engaged Xiao Huan in conversation, suggesting that "forced love never turns out sweet," to which Xiao Huan countered with "sincerity can move even stone." Kumor called Xiao Huan stubborn, and Xiao Huan cleverly mirrored the accusation, asking if Kumor's refusal to withdraw his troops wasn't also a form of stubbornness.

Kumor grew suspicious, warning Xiao Huan against discussing military affairs. Xiao Huan, undeterred, defended his comments by praising Kumor as a leader who valued life, both of his soldiers and his people, suggesting that such a benevolent ruler should consider a peaceful resolution instead of a war with Great Qi. Kumor revealed the hardships faced by his people due to an unfair registry system and a devastating snow disaster, lamenting that they were forced to rebel to survive.

He challenged Xiao Huan's notion of a peaceful resolution, believing the "rotten emperor" would never agree. Xiao Huan insisted, "You won't know unless you try." Growing visibly angry and suspicious, Kumor accused "Bai Chifan" of undermining morale. Xiao Huan humbly reiterated that if Kumor truly put his people first, a more considered approach was needed.

Later, a physician warned Xiao Huan not to use his inner force, as the cold poison in his body was now dangerously close to his heart. Xiao Huan realized that his efforts to win the hunting contest and maintain his disguise had led him to overexert himself, triggering his condition. He noted the severe cold in the Outer regions, hinting at an approaching blizzard, and understood that Ling Cangcang must leave as soon as possible for her safety.

Back at camp, Kumor discovered Deputy General Zhang had seized mutton from villagers to feed the soldiers. Kumor, furious, punished Zhang with twenty lashes, reiterating his strict order against harassing civilians. He demanded that all consumed meat be compensated and the remaining meat returned. He promised daily hunting parties to ensure the soldiers were fed, affirming his role as a benevolent leader despite being a rebel.

Separately, Xiao Ying was approached by Xiao Qianqing, who was seeking a special powder to infect locusts without harming plants. She confirmed she could attempt to create such a compound, but only after making him promise that this time, he wasn't seeking the Emperor's life. Later, Xiao Ying, with Hongqing present, demonstrated an experiment using insects dusted with glowing powder, creating artificial "fireflies." Hongqing was curious about their presence during this season.

Xiao Ying admired the glowing insects briefly, then her mood shifted dramatically. She chillingly wondered how long it would take for all of them to "die out," and Hongqing watched, stunned, as the glowing insects began to fall lifelessly. The three-day deadline had passed, and Grand Tutor Ling, along with other ministers, pressed Xiao Qianqing to immediately authorize the release of grain for Jiangzhou.

Grand Tutor Ling, in a display of feigned concern, spoke of his own tireless efforts for the country. Xiao Qianqing subtly questioned his sincerity, then produced a contrasting report from Xuzhou. While the official memorial claimed the locust plague was contained, Xiao Qianqing revealed his own intelligence indicated gross negligence by officials and a disaster spiraling out of control.

Grand Tutor Ling, undeterred, challenged Xiao Qianqing to investigate if he had doubts, but insisted on a decision for Jiangzhou's grain, warning him against shirking his responsibilities to the border troops. Xiao Qianqing realized Grand Tutor Ling was pushing for a definitive resolution that day and called for writing materials, seemingly cornered. Just as he appeared on the verge of signing, an urgent dispatch from Xuzhou arrived.

Zhong Lin, disguised as "Mr. Song," entered with critical information: a severe locust plague in Xuzhou, exacerbated by the local government's incompetence, had led to a surge of displaced people and was rapidly spreading, threatening to engulf the capital in a refugee crisis. Xiao Qianqing exclaimed that this confirmed his suspicions, condemning the Governor of Xuzhou for daring to lie to the throne.

Zhong Lin further exposed a conspiracy to seal off Xuzhou, turning it into a "dead city," and presented the Governor's signed confession. With irrefutable evidence in hand, Xiao Qianqing turned to Grand Tutor Ling, demanding his proposed solution. Grand Tutor Ling realized Xiao Qianqing had cleverly outmaneuvered him in court, using the Xuzhou crisis to force him to secure grain.

While sacrificing the Governor of Xuzhou as a pawn wouldn't significantly weaken his faction, the urgent need for Jiangzhou's army grain remained. Learning that Mr. Wan of Wan's Rice Shop had complained the most about financial losses, Grand Tutor Ling decided to "send some comfort" to Mr. Wan. Under his orders, his subordinates secretly set fire to a granary that very night.

Later, an aide reported to Xiao Qianqing that Grand Tutor Ling had, as anticipated, managed to procure the necessary grain. Combined with the national reserves, there was now sufficient supply for both Jiangzhou and Xuzhou. Xiao Qianqing reflected that his intricate maneuvering to compel Grand Tutor Ling to reveal his true resources had, after much effort, finally yielded the desired outcome.

Kumor stood at the front of his military camp, observing the sky with a solemn expression as heavy clouds obscured the sun. His general expressed concern about the prolonged defense without offense, fearing it would lead to low morale among the soldiers. Kumor, however, believed battle was imminent.

Another general reported that their search of the hunting ground revealed nothing unusual, and dismissed Kumor's suspicions about "Bai Chifan" (Xiao Huan), claiming the man only had eyes for Miss Lin (Ling Cangcang) and no other motives. Yet, Kumor trusted his instincts, feeling that "Bai Chifan" was far from simple. Kuminjia, finding Xiao Huan looking distraught, acknowledged that being a matchmaker was a difficult task.

She suggested a plan for Xiao Huan and Ling Cangcang to walk on a frozen lake outside the camp. The ice would be slick, creating opportunities for them to lean on each other. Kuminjia elaborated that if Ling Cangcang were to slip, Xiao Huan could heroically save her, which would surely move her and help them reconcile.

Xiao Huan overheard a conversation between Kuminjia and Kumor and realized that the heavy snowfall they had all been waiting for was part of Kumor's strategy to launch an attack across the frozen river. Kumor, seeing the heavy snow, ordered his Deputy General Zhang to place Xiao Huan and Ling Cangcang under surveillance, forbidding them from moving freely within the camp for security reasons as a major battle was approaching.

Kuminjia confronted her brother, arguing that her guests were not his prisoners, but Kumor insisted on caution. Later, Xiao Huan asked Kuminjia about the frozen lake plan, but she told him it was impossible due to the heavy snow. Despite this setback, she assured him she still had other methods to help. Meanwhile, Kumor was discussing his battle plans, detailing a surprise attack on the East Gate once the moat froze.

Kuminjia interrupted, stating she was fetching a jar of good wine for Miss Lin and "Bai Daxia" because she had lost a game of chess to him. Kumor became suspicious upon learning Xiao Huan had won against Kuminjia in Tiger-Taming Chess, a game that tested military strategy. He questioned how a mere wanderer could possess such skill and recalled seeing Xiao Huan intently observing their reactions to the snowfall.

Deciding to test them, Kumor instructed his deputy to bring his "Parting Wine." Kumor told Ling Cangcang and Xiao Huan a Xijiang legend about the Parting Wine, claiming it could make one forget past love. He then presented the wine to Ling Cangcang, suggesting she give it to Xiao Huan if she wished to sever ties with him. Kumor probed Ling Cangcang, asking if she was hesitant and still harbored feelings for Xiao Huan.

Realizing Kumor was testing her, Ling Cangcang boldly declared that if one cup of wine could end all love, there would be no sorrowful lovers in the world. She then offered the cup to Xiao Huan, proposing they drink it to go their separate ways. Xiao Huan drank it without hesitation. Soon after, he began to feel unwell, suddenly coughing blood before collapsing.

The accompanying physician examined Xiao Huan, noting a strange pulse and severe cold poison in his body that was partially suppressed by medicine, and admitted he was unsure how to treat it. Ling Cangcang held Xiao Huan’s hand, attempting to warm him with her body heat. Xiao Huan eventually stirred, teasing Ling Cangcang that she was not as heartless as she claimed.

He then confessed that his initial collapse was a pretense to trick Kumor, asserting that his chronic cold poison rendered him immune to ordinary toxins. However, he then clarified that the poison had triggered his underlying condition and he did, in fact, need her help. He gave her a handwritten decree to deliver to General Ling Jueding in Jiangzhou City, which contained urgent military intelligence about Kumor's plans.

He also pleaded with her to find Imperial Physician Li there to get life-saving medicine for him, as well as tonic pills from Imperial Preceptor Du Tingxin. Ling Cangcang, upset by his repeated deceptions but fearing for his life, made him promise to wait safely for her return. Kuminjia, demanding an antidote from Kumor, asserted that Xiao Huan had saved her life.

Kumor remained unyielding, pointing out Xiao Huan's suspicious knowledge of military strategy shown in the chess game and his acute observation of their reactions to the snow. Kumor firmly believed Xiao Huan was a threat who "could not be kept alive." To convince Kuminjia of the urgency, Xiao Huan feigned a severe relapse, coughing more blood.

Distraught and believing he was truly dying, Kuminjia stole Kumor’s token, helping Ling Cangcang disguise herself in Kuminjia's armor and face veil to escape the camp. Kumor gave chase, but Ling Cangcang successfully reached Ling Jueding's camp. Upon arriving, Ling Cangcang frantically sought Imperial Physician Li and Imperial Preceptor Du Tingxin. Du Tingxin, however, revealed that Imperial Physician Li was not in Jiangzhou City.

He explained that Xiao Huan had already given his only life-saving "Frost Reed" to Ling Cangcang for her own past poisoning, meaning there was no cure left for his own severe condition and he was nearing his end. Furthermore, the decree Xiao Huan had given her was merely a military warning about Kumor's attack plans, with no mention of his own need for help.

Ling Cangcang realized Xiao Huan had sent her away for her own safety, sacrificing his only chance of survival. Despite Ling Jueding's orders to keep her in the city, Ling Cangcang, filled with renewed determination, vowed to return and save Xiao Huan. Back at Kumor's camp, Kuminjia desperately tried to stop her brother from harming Xiao Huan. Xiao Huan, seeing Kumor approaching, finally revealed his true identity as Emperor Xiao Huan of Great Qi.

He challenged Kumor to a duel, and his elite personal guards, the Xiaoxing Battalion, revealed they were already in position. This revelation stunned Kuminjia, who realized the depth of Xiao Huan's deception. Kumor, though initially enraged by Xiao Huan's cunning, observed a genuine integrity in him. Just then, Ling Cangcang arrived, having returned to save Xiao Huan. Though concerned for her, Xiao Huan pressed forward with his plan to negotiate peace.

Kumor initially viewed them as a cunning and deceitful pair. Xiao Huan revealed his deep understanding of Kumor's military: the true number of Kumor's troops was far less than claimed, and his strategy of waiting for the frozen moat to attack was now compromised, as Xiao Huan had already ordered General Ling to scatter salt to delay the freezing. Kumor was taken aback by Xiao Huan's detailed knowledge.

Despite Kumor's initial defiance, Xiao Huan presented a compelling case for peace, highlighting Kumor's care for his soldiers and the devastation war would bring. He spoke of Xijiang's recent severe snow calamity, widespread hunger, and the hardships caused by the status verification system. Xiao Huan offered three solemn promises: Great Qi would provide immediate relief for the snow disaster, send agricultural experts to improve farming and soil, and abolish the oppressive status verification system within three years.

Kumor was deeply moved by Xiao Huan's sincere concern for Xijiang's people and his magnanimity, especially given Kumor had just tried to poison him. He knelt and declared his willingness to serve Xiao Huan with his life, presenting his father's Black Feather Token as a symbol of unwavering loyalty. Xiao Huan, recognizing Kumor as a true hero, accepted his allegiance, promising to protect him and cherish the soldiers and citizens of Xijiang. Kumor, the King of Xijiang, officially led his Black Tiger Army to pledge allegiance to Great Qi, and his soldiers echoed their cheers of "Long live the Emperor."

Xiao Huan and Ling Cangcang departed from Kumor and Kuminjia, who respectfully bid them farewell. Kuminjia playfully asked Xiao Huan, whom she called Bai Chifan, if he had succeeded in winning back his wife. Kumor interjected, commenting that Ling Cangcang's gaze towards Xiao Huan had changed, indicating an improvement in their relationship. Hearing this, Xiao Huan promised to prepare a grand gift for Princess Cangcang. After exchanging goodbyes, the two groups went their separate ways.

Kuminjia watched them leave, expressing how much she would miss Ling Cangcang and Bai Chifan. Kumor teased his sister about her newfound shyness, remarking that she had grown up. Meanwhile, Xiao Qianqing tasked his sister, Xiao Ying, with preparing an important medicinal powder, promising her a gift upon his return. Xiao Ying gave him the powder, urging him to take care of himself. Later, Xiao Qianqing found Zhong Lin intently arranging flowers.

He informed her that the upcoming mission to transport supplies to Xuzhou would be extremely dangerous and offered to personally escort her, fearing she wouldn't be able to manage alone. Zhong Lin confidently stated that she had her own guards and did not need his assistance. Xiao Qianqing pressed the issue, reminding her that her true identity as a woman had been discovered, implying she faced greater risks. Zhong Lin expressed surprise that he knew her secret.

When she suggested he go alone, Xiao Qianqing refused, highlighting her indispensable knowledge of Xuzhou and affectionately referring to her as "Master Zhong." They then set off together. Separately, Xiao Huan sent his men to covertly track Imperial Physician Li, who had secretly left the Capital, while he awaited news in Xuzhou. Meanwhile, Xiao Qianqing and Zhong Lin reached Xuzhou, finding the city ravaged by sickness and famine, with corpses scattered across the desolate landscape.

Xiao Qianqing expressed his dismay at the local Governor's deceit and the urgent need to distribute grain before winter. Upon their arrival, officials gathered at the Xuzhou Yamen to greet the Imperial Commissioner. County Governor Li Youlin informed them that the previous Governor of Xuzhou had committed suicide in prison out of guilt and that he was now temporarily overseeing affairs.

Xiao Qianqing found the timing suspicious, believing Grand Tutor Ling was attempting to eliminate all loose ends by ensuring the Governor's silence. He instructed the officials to store half of the relief grain in the prefecture granary and distribute the other half to the populace according to household registries, threatening severe punishment for any shortage or deception.

Zhong Lin also provided a special locust-repelling powder from the palace, offering the recipe for large-scale production if it proved effective, which the officials welcomed as an additional measure to their current methods of using torches and wild ducks. Elsewhere, Grand Tutor Ling received intelligence that the Prince of Yuzhang, Xiao Qianqing, had secretly left the Capital and immediately dispatched his own forces, vowing to thwart any of his plans and ensure he would never rise again.

Subsequently, Zhong Lin received a secret command from her sect, accompanied by the Ghost King Token, ordering her to assassinate Xiao Qianqing. She was sternly warned that failure would result in severe repercussions from the Lingbi Sect. That night, Xiao Qianqing, half-asleep, murmured Zhong Lin's name, confessing that he felt himself falling for her, something he had never experienced before.

Zhong Lin, torn between her loyalty to the sect and her developing feelings, struggled with the grave decision and left Xiao Qianqing's side, deeply troubled. The following day, as they were distributing congee, Xiao Qianqing observed that Zhong Lin seemed unusually subdued. He showcased his compassionate side by offering his own congee to a man named Niqiu who was denied a second serving.

Noticing Zhong Lin watching him, he playfully asked if she was impressed by his gentle and benevolent nature. Despite her attempts to seem cheerful, Xiao Qianqing suspected she was concealing something important. Zhong Lin, when alone, agonized over her mission, recognizing that killing Xiao Qianqing would grant her freedom from the Lingbi Sect, yet she found herself unable to act on the order.

Xiao Qianqing soon discovered that the villagers were not consuming the distributed relief grain but were instead offering it in worship to a so-called Locust Lord. He found this practice utterly absurd, questioning why the officials had allowed such a harmful superstition to spread. Li Youlin explained that the common folk perceived locust plagues as divine retribution, and the recent suicide of the corrupt Xuzhou Governor had convinced them that the Locust Lord had delivered justice, thus intensifying their devotion.

Xiao Qianqing proposed a strategic retreat, but Zhong Lin, angered by the misuse of the precious grain, refused. She confronted the crowd, attempting to persuade them that the grain was for their sustenance, not for worshipping the destructive Locust Lord. Her words were met with fierce hostility from the villagers, who, incited by agitators, accused officials of being the true source of their suffering and claimed the Locust Lord was their protector.

The incensed crowd turned on Zhong Lin, and Xiao Qianqing immediately stepped in to protect her. They were soon surrounded and attacked by the angry mob and, in their desperate attempt to escape, both inadvertently tumbled into a dry well. Waking up in the well, Zhong Lin found Xiao Qianqing unconscious. She contemplated her mission to kill him, acknowledging that it would grant her freedom, yet she hesitated to strike.

Upon regaining consciousness, Xiao Qianqing urged Zhong Lin to shout for help. Zhong Lin expressed remorse for their situation, admitting it was her fault for provoking the crowd. She called for help but soon stopped, concluding no one would hear them. Xiao Qianqing noted her composure during the riot and questioned why she had insisted on coming if she knew the dangers.

He revealed his true motive: he had come to protect her, unwilling to let her face peril alone after she had helped him multiple times. He then proposed a plan for her to climb out using him as a stepping stone. After Zhong Lin successfully exited the well, she internally confessed her reluctance to kill him, feeling trapped by her obligations. Immediately, a member of the Lingbi Sect appeared, sternly rebuking her for her wavering resolve.

Reminding her of her loyalty and the command of the Ghost King Token, he reissued the order to kill Xiao Qianqing. Returning to the well, Zhong Lin revealed her conflicted state to Xiao Qianqing. She told him he was the first person to ever express feelings for her, but their paths were irreconcilable. She explained that if she didn't kill him, her sect would send someone else, and she could only buy him some time.

She proposed that once the Xuzhou crisis was resolved, they would part ways forever. Shortly after, officials arrived and rescued Xiao Qianqing, addressing him by his alias, "Mr. Song." The plan to quell the unrest moved forward with Xiao Qianqing, disguised as a divine spirit, instructing the people to spread the "Immortal Dew" (the locust-repelling powder) to end the plague. The villagers, awestruck, thanked him.

However, his disguise was soon exposed when an agitator noticed his official boots and tried to reignite the unrest. Xiao Qianqing immediately ordered his subordinates to arrest the instigators, leading to a confrontation. During the chaos, Zhong Lin saw a Lingbi Sect member signaling her to kill Xiao Qianqing. But before she could act, Xiao Qianqing swiftly stabbed her, and she collapsed. After the crisis was resolved, the thankful populace, led by Li Youlin, bid farewell to "Mr. Song."

Later, Xiao Qianqing confronted a captured Zhong Lin, demanding to know her true identity and why she had tried to assassinate him. Zhong Lin remained silent, but internally confessed she was a pawn of the Lingbi Sect, unable to escape her fate, and asked him to kill her. Understanding her plight and realizing she never truly intended to harm him, Xiao Qianqing let her go. He declared that since his alias "Song Lanxi" was now "dead," she was free.

He urged her to abandon her past identities, telling her, "You are not Song Lanxi, nor are you Zhong Lin. You can be yourself. No one will ever use you as a pawn again," and encouraged her to forge her own path.

Ling Cangcang noticed it was snowing where they were, and Xiao Huan appeared increasingly lethargic and spiritless. She found his body to be extremely cold, which caused her great worry. Xiao Huan managed a faint smile, expressing his happiness at her concern. Ling Cangcang questioned why he had deceived her into leaving and then returned himself. Xiao Huan asserted that he was not only the Emperor but also her husband, and his return was solely to ensure her safety.

She pressed him again about his return, to which he replied that he did not want to be blamed for her death. Ling Cangcang, however, suspected his true motive was concern for her, a notion he quickly denied. Suddenly, Xiao Huan pulled her close, complaining of the cold and seeking warmth in her embrace.

As Ling Jueding and his soldiers arrived to greet the royal couple, Xiao Huan suddenly collapsed beside Ling Cangcang without a word, unresponsive to her frantic calls. Du Tingxin, summoned to examine him, delivered a grim diagnosis: Xiao Huan was gravely ill, perhaps beyond saving. She revealed that his critical condition was due to taking the Yushu Pill, a potent substance he consumed to suppress his cold poison, enabling him to rush to Ling Cangcang's rescue.

However, this pill, being a poison itself, had caused his qi to be obstructed throughout all organs, severely damaging both his heart and lungs. Overwhelmed by this revelation, Ling Cangcang broke down in tears, realizing that Xiao Huan had given her his only antidote, the Frost Reed. Ling Jueding then presented an old shaman's medicinal bath prescription, previously used to treat soldiers with cold poison, though its efficacy in Xiao Huan's severe state was uncertain.

Despite Du Tingxin's hesitation, Ling Cangcang vehemently insisted they try the remedy without delay, ordering guards to prepare the bath and boil the herbs. Ling Cangcang personally tended to Xiao Huan through the night as he underwent the medicinal bath. Though he had awakened briefly and witnessed her lying beside him, he had feigned sleep to test her. Now, as his fever finally broke, he genuinely opened his eyes to her joyful relief.

He expressed regret for past misunderstandings, asking for a chance to start anew and promising to remain by her side until she willingly embraced him. Later, Xiao Huan subtly sent Ling Cangcang away for pear blossom honey, allowing him to speak with Du Tingxin privately. He confronted her about her choice to save the Phoenix Seal over the Empress when Kumor forced the decision.

Du Tingxin, unwavering, defended her actions, claiming they were for the good of Great Qi and the Emperor, as she viewed Ling Cangcang as a threat. Undeterred, Xiao Huan ordered Du Tingxin to leave the Phoenix Seal and return to the Capital immediately. He firmly declared that while many could treat his illness, Ling Cangcang was his one and only Empress, even if it meant sacrificing his life for her.

Later, Ling Cangcang brought him a crystal ice lantern, suggesting they return to the Capital soon due to the harsh conditions. Xiao Huan agreed, promising to tell her tomorrow what would truly make him happy, and asked her to rest beside him for now. Meanwhile, Du Tingxin harbored deep resentment towards Xiao Huan, internally questioning the longevity of his renewed relationship with Ling Cangcang.

General Lu Qi sought an audience with her at Nanrong Palace, ostensibly to report on his mission but with a clear intent to express his admiration. Du Tingxin, discerning his unspoken affection, gently rebuffed him by referencing the palace's name, "Nanrong," which signifies that one devoted to the divine cannot be tainted by mortal desires. Nevertheless, she kindly offered him incense and tonic pills for his sleepless nights, inviting him to collect them monthly.

Separately, Xiao Qianqing, having captured Physician Li, proceeded alone to Mount Xiandu, distrusting his accompanying guards whom he ordered to be closely watched. He recalled a past conversation with Xiao Huan, who, before his departure, had warned him against reckless behavior and entrusted him with a pouch, hinting at its importance.

Xiao Qianqing confronted Physician Li, who revealed that although the original Frost Reed antidote was gone, an alternative, Frost Blossom, could save Xiao Huan's life for at least ten more years. Physician Li then detailed how Frost Blossom, a rare cliff-dwelling plant, could be found by following bee-eaters, which collect the flower during courtship. As Xiao Qianqing navigated the dangerous cliffs in search of the flower, he almost fell but was saved by Zhong Lin.

Surprised, he asked why she returned after he had set her free. Zhong Lin explained that she was repaying him for sparing her life, adding that they were now even. Xiao Qianqing confessed he couldn't have left her to die alone in the mountains. Weeping, Zhong Lin revealed her despair, stating she had nowhere to go and feared facing Ling Cangcang.

She recounted her past: she was rescued from the Lingbi Sect Saintess by Master Li Lu, who tasked her with protecting Ling Cangcang. However, she was later ordered by Lingbi Sect's guardian to kill Xiao Qianqing. She apologized for her attempt on his life and warned him that the Lingbi Sect would pursue him relentlessly.

Zhong Lin offered to stay and protect him, an offer Xiao Qianqing accepted, albeit playfully telling her to stop her gloomy demeanor and even asking her to smile. He then promised to take her to Ling Cangcang in Jiangzhou and shoulder any consequences. Back in the Capital, Ling Xuefeng received a letter from Ling Jueding, confirming the victory in Jiangzhou and the safety of his children.

Overjoyed, Ling Xuefeng lavishly rewarded his household and ordered his butler to closely monitor Ling Jueding and Ling Cangcang's interactions with Xiao Huan. Shortly after, Guan Qi reported his failure to apprehend Xiao Qianqing in Xuzhou, infuriating Ling Xuefeng, who commanded him to reflect on how his skills fell short of Xianxue's.

Ling Cangcang paced anxiously, her face etched with worry for Xiao Huan, whose condition was worsening rapidly. Her younger brother, Ling Jueding, tried to comfort her, but she felt he couldn't grasp the depth of her fear. Just then, Xiao Qianqing arrived with Physician Li, carrying the much-needed antidote. Despite the glimmer of hope, Ling Cangcang couldn't shake the fear that the antidote might fail, a dreadful thought after having lost loved ones before.

Xiao Qianqing, despite his ongoing disagreements with his imperial brother, genuinely hoped for Xiao Huan's recovery. Physician Li worked diligently to administer the treatment, and Ling Cangcang watched every step nervously. Finally, Physician Li announced that Xiao Huan had passed the critical stage and would be out of danger once he awoke, bringing a wave of relief to Ling Cangcang. Later, Ling Jueding gently questioned Ling Cangcang about her complex relationship with Xiao Huan.

She admitted it was not easily explained, weighed down by the past deaths of her Master, Li Lu, Luo Xianxue’s supposed demise, and the unresolved history between her father and Xiao Huan. She pondered whether she could truly return to the palace with him. Meanwhile, Xiao Qianqing sat by Xiao Huan's bedside, his gaze filled with concern. Xiao Huan slowly opened his eyes, immediately teasing his brother about a Divination Chart he had given him.

Xiao Qianqing retorted that when he had wanted the gift, Xiao Huan refused, and now that he no longer desired it, Xiao Huan was trying to force it on him. He threatened to settle their scores once Xiao Huan fully recovered. Xiao Huan, laughing, playfully denied Xiao Qianqing any credit for saving his life, claiming that Physician Li had forced Xiao Qianqing to surrender the "Frost Blossom" antidote.

Xiao Qianqing nearly jumped up in protest, prompting Xiao Huan to relent and promise him anything he wished for, in addition to the Divination Chart. Ling Cangcang continued to be plagued by her internal struggles. When Xiao Huan attempted to leave his room without taking his medicine, Physician Li, prioritizing the Emperor’s health, knelt before him, compelling him to comply. Helpless, Xiao Huan drank the medicine.

Later, Ling Jueding joyfully informed Ling Cangcang that Xiao Huan had granted him a month of leave each year to visit their father and her in the Capital, and was also taking steps to develop trade routes and manage agriculture in Jiangzhou. He praised Xiao Huan as a reliable and kind-hearted emperor, especially for his dedication to Ling Cangcang.

However, Ling Cangcang was seen quietly packing her belongings, declaring that with the Emperor's recovery, it was time for her to depart. After learning of her departure, Xiao Huan was resolute on leaving to find her, despite Physician Li's attempts to stop him. In the Capital, Du Tingxin received a verbal edict from Xiao Huan via Lu Qi. The message reminded her of Xiao Huan's words in Jiangzhou: while many could heal him, Ling Cangcang was his only Empress.

Overwhelmed by despair, Du Tingxin lashed out at Lu Qi, calling him a coward for not confessing his feelings. Despite her late mother’s warnings against emotional attachments, she dramatically declared that if he chose to stay by her side now, he would be hers, bound to her in life and death. Lu Qi, offering his heart, then embraced and kissed her in front of an elderly female attendant.

In a secluded village, Ling Xuefeng met secretly with Luo Xianxue, who was alive and hidden by him. Luo Xianxue reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to Ling Xuefeng. Ling Xuefeng, relieved that his children were safe, expressed grave concerns about Xiao Huan's reforms.

He revealed that Xiao Huan had leveraged the status verification system with Kumor to end the Jiangzhou conflict and intended to appoint Xiao Qianqing as regent to implement his talent recommendation system, thus undermining Ling Xuefeng and the Empress Dowager. Ling Xuefeng stated that Xiao Huan's aim was to dismantle the current governance, which would severely threaten the Ling clan and make Ling Cangcang's position in the imperial city even more perilous.

He instructed Luo Xianxue to stop Xiao Huan at all costs. Zhong Lin invited Ling Cangcang for a drink, hoping to confess her feelings for someone, but struggled to voice them. Before she could, Xiao Huan and Xiao Qianqing arrived. Xiao Huan confronted Ling Cangcang, asking why she was leaving so abruptly. Ling Cangcang hesitated, explaining she needed time to process certain matters.

Xiao Huan urged her to return to the Capital with him, reminding her of her promise and suggesting they take a scenic waterway route from Yanxia Lake. Xiao Qianqing, always quick with a remark, teased Xiao Huan for pursuing his wife, while grumbling about having to manage political "old foxes" in the Capital himself. As they were about to leave, the group heard a baby crying. Zhong Lin rushed to investigate but was suddenly stabbed.

All four were ambushed and forced into a stronghold of the Lingbi Sect. Inside the stronghold, Zhu Sha, the Shuyang chapter leader of the Lingbi Sect, poisoned Xiao Huan, Ling Cangcang, and Xiao Qianqing with a "soft-bone powder" that debilitated them. When Xiao Qianqing saw Zhong Lin writhing in pain from "Bone-Eating Ice" poison, Zhu Sha declared that only a self-inflicted wound from him would save Zhong Lin. Without hesitation, Xiao Qianqing stabbed himself in the arm.

Zhu Sha mocked his wound as insufficient and demanded a deeper cut, promising to treat Zhong Lin and Ling Cangcang in a luxurious VIP room if he complied. Later, Zhong Lin finally revealed to Ling Cangcang that she was a member of the Lingbi Sect, sent by her Master. Ling Cangcang admitted she had suspected as much after her Master's identity was exposed but found it difficult to confront the truth.

Zhong Lin tearfully reaffirmed her profound loyalty, stating she would rather die than harm Ling Cangcang. Ling Cangcang accepted her explanation, acknowledging that life often presents complex situations and that Zhong Lin must have had her own compelling reasons. They agreed that their immediate priority was to escape. Zhong Lin further revealed that a Lingbi Sect Protector had previously ordered her to kill Xiao Qianqing, but he had helped her escape.

She concluded by stating that the current operation's goals were to kill the Emperor of Great Qi and retrieve a sacred relic. Zhu Sha returned, offering Xiao Huan a sinister deal: spend one night with her, and she would release his companions. She brazenly proposed that Xiao Huan divorce Ling Cangcang, marry her, and together they would rule the world, with him as Emperor and her as the Ghost King.

She also demanded the Moon-Eclipse, the Ghost King's token, from Xiao Huan. Xiao Qianqing angrily interjected, denouncing Zhu Sha as a "freakish witch." This provoked Zhu Sha to threaten Zhong Lin. Panicked, Xiao Qianqing frantically offered himself to Zhu Sha instead of Xiao Huan, praising his own youth and gentleness. However, Zhu Sha dismissed him, stating her preference for Xiao Huan’s "proud streak." Xiao Huan, disregarding Xiao Qianqing’s impulsiveness, sternly warned Zhu Sha against harming Ling Cangcang.

Unfazed, Zhu Sha then used "Illusion-Butterfly Powder" on Ling Cangcang, explaining its horrific effects: it would trap her in a terrifying illusion, causing her to writhe in agony as her mind battled the drug's influence until her internal organs ruptured. Zhu Sha mockingly taunted Xiao Huan, stating that in her current delusional state, Ling Cangcang perceived him as her mortal enemy.

Despite Zhu Sha's malice, Xiao Huan, unwavering in his belief that Ling Cangcang would never truly harm him, bravely walked towards her. Under the agonizing influence of the drug, Ling Cangcang was in immense pain and mental anguish. Her hand trembling uncontrollably, she finally plunged a knife into Xiao Huan, who then collapsed to the ground.

Zhu Sha, believing her plan had succeeded, gloated to Ling Cangcang, mocking Xiao Huan as a romantic deeply in love. However, Ling Cangcang, who had already recovered from the Illusion-Butterfly Powder, quickly held a knife to Zhu Sha's neck. To Zhu Sha's shock, Xiao Huan also rose to his feet. She expressed disbelief that her Illusion-Butterfly Powder could be countered so quickly and that both of them were unharmed.

Xiao Huan explained that he had taken Frost Reed, a potent antidote capable of curing any poison, implying Zhu Sha's lack of thoroughness in her schemes. Xiao Huan then reunited with Ling Cangcang and Zhong Lin. Zhong Lin assured them she was fine, crediting Xiao Qianqing for bringing Puppet Incense, which allowed them to control a servant. With Zhu Sha as their hostage, Xiao Huan commanded the Lingbi Sect members to clear the way, threatening Zhu Sha if they refused.

As they stepped out of the sect, a hallucinogenic smoke enveloped them, causing disorientation and pain. A masked man, Luo Xianxue, emerged from the smoke, demanding the Moon-Eclipse from Xiao Huan and threatening everyone with a slow, painful death if he refused. Zhu Sha attempted to appease Luo Xianxue, claiming she was merely attempting to acquire the Moon-Eclipse for him.

However, Luo Xianxue, aware of Zhu Sha's true ambition to become the Ghost King, killed her in a fit of rage. Luo Xianxue then lunged at Xiao Huan, but Xiao Huan, prepared, subdued him. Ling Cangcang, recognizing something familiar, dramatically pulled off Luo Xianxue's mask, revealing her presumed-dead brother. Luo Xianxue sighed, acknowledging he could no longer conceal his identity from her.

Ling Cangcang, tearfully relieved yet confused, questioned Luo Xianxue about his survival and why he hadn't returned to her. Luo Xianxue explained that he survived the fire by hiding in a cellar within the liquor storage. He chose not to return because he knew the Emperor viewed him as a threat, and his reappearance would only endanger Ling Cangcang.

He then confessed he tried to assassinate Xiao Huan because he couldn't bear to see Ling Cangcang hurt or suffer due to her entanglement with Xiao Huan, whom he called her "tribulation," offering to help her sever ties. Ling Cangcang asserted that no one could make decisions for her and Xiao Huan. Luo Xianxue apologized for overstepping, reiterating that his life belonged to her and his lifelong duty was to protect her from any harm.

He swore an oath to the heavens to belong to Ling Cangcang and to stay strong for her, claiming he had crawled out of the fire for her sake. Ling Cangcang, recalling her own vow to protect the Ling family, admitted her feelings for Xiao Huan complicated matters and suggested that many misunderstandings between them needed time to resolve. Luo Xianxue agreed to postpone the discussion.

Luo Xianxue later offered Ling Cangcang a bowl of pear blossom honey, which he knew she loved since childhood, urging her to drink it while warm. Ling Cangcang found the taste familiar and comforting, but the drink contained a sedative. She soon felt drowsy and fell asleep. Luo Xianxue watched her, conflicted, feeling he had no choice but to sedate her. Xiao Huan then appeared, confronting Luo Xianxue and stating he knew Luo Xianxue was there for the Moon-Eclipse.

He criticized Luo Xianxue for showing himself if he truly wished to remain "dead." Luo Xianxue, without preamble, demanded the Moon-Eclipse and challenged Xiao Huan to fight. Xiao Huan questioned Luo Xianxue's loyalty to Ling Xuefeng, pointing out that Ling Xuefeng was using him to revive the Lingbi Sect and that Luo Xianxue's actions to kill him, despite knowing Ling Cangcang's feelings, were hurting her.

As they prepared to fight, Ling Cangcang, who had used her inner force to counteract the sedative, woke up and intervened, confronting Luo Xianxue about his deception regarding his "death" and the sedative. She realized he hadn't acted alone and demanded to know the full truth. Luo Xianxue admitted he was obeying Ling Xuefeng's command to kill Xiao Huan.

When Ling Cangcang stepped in front of Xiao Huan to protect him, Xiao Huan revealed that his Xiaoxing Guards were already in place, making Luo Xianxue's mission impossible. Xiao Qianqing then publicly exposed Ling Xuefeng's treachery, revealing that the Grand Tutor had poisoned Ling Cangcang to manipulate Xiao Huan into providing the Frost Reed, the life-saving antidote. Both Ling Cangcang and Luo Xianxue were shocked. Ling Cangcang realized the pear blossom honey was the poison.

Despite the devastating revelation, Ling Cangcang pleaded with Xiao Huan to spare Luo Xianxue, even offering to become his empress to ensure Luo Xianxue and the Ling clan's safety. Xiao Huan agreed to let Luo Xianxue go, but Ling Cangcang, heartbroken by Luo Xianxue's betrayal and actions, told him she never wanted to see him again and urged him to leave. Ling Cangcang struggled to process the truth, realizing her father was behind everything.

Ling Xuefeng, in turn, offered to resign, pleading with Xiao Huan to spare Ling Cangcang. Soon after, Xiao Huan and Ling Cangcang returned to the palace, where Ling Cangcang couldn't shake a profound sadness upon seeing her father, despite his usual affectionate demeanor. During Xiao Qianqing's regency, Ling Xuefeng frequently pressed for the Emperor's return, expressing impatience.

Xiao Qianqing, however, calmly stated that Xiao Huan still needed rest and that Ling Xuefeng would have to tolerate him as regent for a while longer. He then shifted the discussion to the situation in Xuzhou, noting the tragic death of Song Lanxi. Xiao Qianqing pointedly asked Ling Xuefeng for his recommendations for the vacant Governor position, reminding him that the previous Governor was his protégé.

Ling Xuefeng, visibly uncomfortable, feigned ignorance and disgust at his former protégé's "unforgivable acts," claiming the man had shamed him. Xiao Qianqing then delegated the task of recommending a new governor to Mr. Li, effectively sidelining Ling Xuefeng. Xiao Qianqing later visited Zhong Lin, who was concerned about her future now that Ling Cangcang might no longer need her protection. Xiao Qianqing reassured her, telling her she could now live a carefree life.

Later, after a moment of intimacy, Zhong Lin playfully asked Xiao Qianqing to taste the lingering wine on her lips. Their closeness was interrupted when the Empress Dowager, visiting Xiao Qianqing's manor, stumbled upon them sleeping together. The Empress Dowager angrily questioned Zhong Lin's presence and disheveled state. Xiao Qianqing brazenly responded that they were simply enjoying the night and "making merry."

Luo Xianxue confronted Ling Xuefeng's aide, demanding to know if Ling Xuefeng had indeed poisoned Ling Cangcang's pear blossom honey. The aide, initially defensive, admitted the truth, prompting Luo Xianxue's anger at how Ling Xuefeng had gambled with Ling Cangcang's life. Ling Xuefeng then appeared, admonishing Luo Xianxue for his "betrayal," claiming his actions were for Ling Cangcang's ultimate good and necessary for her predetermined path.

After Ling Xuefeng left, Luo Xianxue expressed deep regret and guilt, realizing he had been a pawn in Ling Xuefeng's schemes and had unknowingly caused Ling Cangcang harm. He solemnly swore to protect Ling Cangcang and never let her suffer again. Zhong Lin took a dispirited Ling Cangcang out of the palace, intending to confess her feelings for Xiao Qianqing, but found herself unable to speak.

Instead, Ling Cangcang revealed her own distress, explaining that she had finally realized her father, Ling Xuefeng, was the true orchestrator of recent events, having used her as a pawn in his schemes to secure an heir to the throne. She speculated that Xiao Huan had kept this truth from her to protect her.

Ling Cangcang expressed her profound sadness and confusion about her father's transformed nature, grappling with how much of his affection was genuine and how much was manipulative. She declared her unwavering loyalty to Xiao Huan, recognizing him as a wise ruler essential for the stability and well-being of Great Qi. As for Ling Xuefeng, she hoped he would see the error of his ways, though she admitted she was unsure how to face him.

Zhong Lin tried to comfort her, suggesting they fly kites to release their worries. In court, Xiao Huan proposed the abolition of the status verification system, starting with Jiangzhou, and a gradual nationwide reform, inviting objections. Ling Xuefeng voiced concerns that such a "temporary system" would lead to negative practices and taxation problems, arguing against changing a decades-old system on a whim.

Xiao Qianqing, however, emphatically supported Xiao Huan, agreeing that reform was necessary for Great Qi's continued development and that it was time to break old traditions. Xiao Huan further elaborated on his vision to simplify the complex tax collection system, moving towards a single tax based on acreage to curb corruption and alleviate the people's burden. He encouraged all ministers to submit their suggestions. After the court session, Xiao Huan and Xiao Qianqing engaged in their usual playful banter.

Xiao Huan teased Xiao Qianqing about his "cunning schemes," while Xiao Qianqing praised Xiao Huan's tax reform proposal, acknowledging its benefits for state revenue and the common people, though he noted it only addressed symptoms, not root causes. Xiao Huan then jested about their mother's eagerness to find him a consort, offering his help, which made Xiao Qianqing jokingly regret having saved Xiao Huan in the past. Their conversation ended with Xiao Huan declaring a playful "victory."

Ling Cangcang visited Ling Xuefeng, who greeted her warmly and prepared roasted Jinye pears with pear blossom honey, reminiscing about her childhood favorite. As he spoke of the sweet memory, Ling Cangcang leaned into him, silently cherishing the bittersweet moment, knowing that this display of fatherly affection might be their last genuine connection given the revelations.

Leaning on Ling Xuefeng's shoulder, Ling Cangcang expressed her deep affection for his baked pears, even when he fondly recalled his late wife's pears as superior. She insisted his were her favorite. Ling Xuefeng then shifted the conversation, mentioning a letter from Ling Jueding about Ling Cangcang's arduous trip to Jiangzhou and reminded her that her mother's death anniversary was approaching, urging her to return home to pay respects. Ling Cangcang agreed.

As Ling Xuefeng prepared to leave abruptly after discussing his son, Ling Cangcang noted that the pears were not yet fully baked, to which he promised to bake some for her next time. Later, Ling Xuefeng learned from his aide that Luo Xianxue had discovered their plot to poison Ling Cangcang. Reflecting on Ling Cangcang's earlier comment about the unfinished pears, Ling Xuefeng realized she already knew the truth.

When his aide raised concerns about Luo Xianxue being a danger due to his knowledge, Ling Xuefeng ruthlessly ordered his death. Meanwhile, Xiao Huan observed Ling Cangcang practicing swordplay blindfolded. She explained that this method enhanced her perception of air currents and improved her technique. Playfully, she asserted her capability to protect him as the esteemed leader of Fenglai Pavilion, to which Xiao Huan indulged her flirtatious banter.

He offered to accompany her to her mother's death anniversary, but Ling Cangcang declined, feeling she needed to confront certain matters alone and could not perpetually evade them. She reassured him that she would protect herself. Ling Cangcang visited Ling Xuefeng in his study, recalling a childhood incident where she accidentally cracked his favorite inkstone.

Ling Xuefeng remembered how her mother had shielded her from punishment back then, and how he had cherished and continued to use the cracked inkstone all these years, just as his wife had said it was still functional. This shared memory brought a melancholic air to their conversation. Ling Cangcang then suggested they visit her mother's spirit tablet.

At the tablet, Ling Xuefeng poured his wife's favorite green plum wine, reminiscing about her love for drinking and how she would dance with her sword beneath the plum tree when tipsy, vowing that he remembered every detail about her. He then offered Ling Cangcang freshly baked pears he had prepared, hoping they would taste like her mother's.

Breaking the tense silence, Ling Cangcang revealed she was ambushed by Luo Xianxue on her return journey to the capital, and confessed her struggle to confront her father about it. Ling Xuefeng prompted her to voice her questions, swearing before her mother's tablet that he would not lie. Ling Cangcang directly asked if he had put Lovesickness Powder and another poison in her pear blossom honey, to which Ling Xuefeng admitted yes.

Ling Cangcang then questioned the sincerity of his paternal love, discerning that his affection seemed conditional on whether she furthered his ambitions. Ling Xuefeng maintained that he was certain Xiao Huan would save her and that his actions were for the Ling clan. Ling Cangcang countered, accusing him of choosing to be a ruthless Grand Tutor, willing to sacrifice his daughter for power, and urged him to cease his machinations, warning that it was not too late to turn back.

Ling Xuefeng reacted with a cynical laugh, scoffing at her attempt to "teach him how to live." Ling Cangcang reiterated her desperate plea, emphasizing that without a change of course, he would cross a point of no return. Ling Xuefeng taunted her, suggesting she had been searching his study for evidence, and then threatened Luo Xianxue's life, knowing Luo's deep affection for Ling Cangcang. He questioned if Luo Xianxue could even survive.

Horrified, Ling Cangcang demanded to know what he had done. Ling Xuefeng chillingly declared he would not kill her, but would instead pronounce her gravely ill and keep her confined to the manor, convinced that with the Empress in his grasp, Xiao Huan would not dare to act.

He attempted to sow discord between Ling Cangcang and Xiao Huan, highlighting how Xiao Huan had also hurt and lied to her, killed her master, and now sought to eliminate her father, pressing her on whether she would still choose to stand with him. At that moment, Xiao Huan entered with his troops, stating that he never intended to kill Ling Xuefeng.

He asserted that he possessed overwhelming evidence of Ling Xuefeng's crimes, including his ties to the Lingbi Sect, treason, and regicide. Xiao Huan reminded Ling Xuefeng of a chess strategy he once taught him: "Drive in a wedge and shatter the formation." He then revealed that he had used Luo Xianxue as precisely that wedge, deliberately allowing him to escape after learning of Ling Xuefeng's poisoning of Ling Cangcang.

Xiao Huan knew Ling Xuefeng would never tolerate an uncontrolled pawn like Luo Xianxue. While Ling Xuefeng was preoccupied with purging his ranks, Xiao Huan capitalized on the distraction to dismantle his vast network, exposing his secret manufacturing of weapons, embezzlement of grain, manipulation of prices, and control of intelligence. Xiao Huan revealed that this intricate plan had been years in the making. Cornered, Ling Xuefeng told Xiao Huan to kill or punish him as he saw fit.

Xiao Huan reiterated his promise not to kill him or destroy the entire Ling clan, explaining that he would not allow his Empress to be associated with a traitorous father or a rebellious family. Ling Xuefeng retorted with a final warning, reminding Xiao Huan of his own teaching to "remove the threat completely and never soften your heart," prophesying that sparing him would be Xiao Huan's greatest mistake.

Xiao Huan then advised Ling Xuefeng to take care and departed with Ling Cangcang. Later, Ling Xuefeng's subordinates reported their failure to eliminate Luo Xianxue. Luo Xianxue had sent a message through them, declaring that he would not harm his foster father, who had saved his life and raised him. More importantly, he stated, Ling Xuefeng was Ling Cangcang's father, and harming him would mean harming Ling Cangcang, a deed Luo Xianxue would never commit.

Ling Xuefeng was struck by this, realizing that after a lifetime of meticulously calculating human hearts, he had been taught a profound lesson by his adopted son—that deep affection inevitably creates vulnerability. Meanwhile, Du Tingxin, who was bathing, received news of Ling Xuefeng's defeat. Subsequently, Ling Xuefeng visited her and revealed a secret he had safeguarded for the imperial family for over a decade: she was the daughter of the late Emperor.

Du Tingxin, initially composed, was enraged after reading a blood-written letter from her mother, the former Imperial Preceptor. The letter spoke of all beings being ensnared by love and hate, and though the Imperial Preceptor herself could not escape it, she prayed her child would grow up safe, asserting that her child carried imperial blood. Du Tingxin was deeply incensed by her birth status, lamenting her "unacceptable, unacceptable, such an unacceptable fate."

In the imperial court, Ling Xuefeng formally resigned from his position, proclaiming that he had honorably served two reigns, assisted the late Emperor in his conquests, and helped the current Emperor usher in a prosperous era. Declaring his life's work complete, he requested permission to retire to the hills. Xiao Huan granted his request, and Ling Xuefeng humbly thanked him, wishing Great Qi everlasting peace and prosperity.

Xiao Qianqing observed Ling Xuefeng's departure, finding it unsettling that such a powerful figure would retire so readily, musing that failing to completely neutralize him now might lead to future problems. Later, Xiao Huan confronted Ling Xuefeng, recounting the story of his youth. As a frail fourteen-year-old prince, he had waited in the heavy snow at Xishi Gate to make a proposition to Ling Xuefeng: that he would make Ling Xuefeng his Grand Chancellor and Ling Cangcang his Empress.

Xiao Huan confirmed that he had fulfilled every one of those promises, including sparing Ling Xuefeng's life and protecting the Ling clan, as he always kept his word. Ling Xuefeng conceded that his earlier worries had been unwarranted and expressed his desire to find a peaceful place for spiritual cultivation, vowing never to return to the palace. He was then escorted by a general to the Deer Courtyard, where he reiterated that his only desire was peaceful retirement.

The general concurred, stating his sole wish was for the well-being of the one in his heart, prompting Ling Xuefeng to acknowledge the general as a man of deep feelings. Simultaneously, a distraught Du Tingxin sought Xiao Huan at the palace, only to be informed he was unavailable. A eunuch discreetly hinted that Xiao Huan was in the Imperial Garden, near the wintersweet trees. She hurried there.

In the Imperial Garden, Xiao Huan told Ling Cangcang that all their past troubles were now behind them. Ling Cangcang reflected on her name, "Cangcang," and her mother's hope for her to live a free and unburdened life, wondering what her mother would think of her current circumstances. Xiao Huan then reiterated the story of his childhood arrangement with Ling Xuefeng, admitting that his journey to power had been meticulously planned and calculated.

Yet, he concluded, marrying Ling Cangcang was the most successful outcome of all his intricate schemes and the greatest happiness of his life. Du Tingxin, who was secretly listening, overheard these words. Her grief immediately dissipated, replaced by an intense, burning hatred. She realized that the concealment of her true identity had merely been another calculated move in Xiao Huan's grand game.

After secretly overhearing a conversation between Ling Cangcang and Xiao Huan, Du Tingxin was profoundly changed, sinking into despair. She spent her days drinking heavily, often grabbing those nearby in her drunkenness to express her bitter mockery. She questioned why Ling Cangcang was Xiao Huan's greatest prize while she herself was nothing more than a used tool.

She reminisced about a time in her childhood when she felt so much pain she thought she couldn't go on, hiding away until Xiao Huan appeared, took her hand, and told her not to fear. She had considered him the light of her life, living for him entirely, but now she questioned if he had genuinely meant to save her or had merely used her as a pawn. She adamantly asked Xiao Huan if she truly owed him anything.

She revealed the tragic story of her mother, who was accused of being wanton and burned alive after the late Emperor's death by a man of exalted identity whom her mother could never name. Her mother had written a letter in blood to prove Du Tingxin's identity, hoping to ensure her safety, but her birthright was hidden. Du Tingxin fiercely declared that the imperial family had ruined both her mother and her, leaving them voiceless.

As a princess, she felt she was equally entitled to the royal power and wealth that Xiao Huan possessed. She vowed that the Xiao clan would repay the debt of her mother's death. Meanwhile, Vice Commander Lu reported to Xiao Huan and Ling Cangcang that Ling Xuefeng, the former Imperial Father-in-law, had been safely escorted to Fayun Temple and settled in the Deer Courtyard.

Xiao Huan instructed that Ling Xuefeng's daily needs be met but that he should be kept from others. Ling Cangcang hoped her father would reflect on his actions, and Xiao Huan assured her she could visit him once things had settled. Du Tingxin confronted Vice Commander Lu, acknowledging he had overheard her words from the previous night. He confirmed no other palace servants were present. She demanded he keep her secret, then questioned why he wouldn't commit suicide.

When he drew a knife, Du Tingxin stopped him, stating she appreciated his loyalty, even if it was partly a display. She informed him that she had decided he was trustworthy and that his eyes revealed a willingness to live and die for her, though she could never give him her heart. Vice Commander Lu expressed his honor in dying for her, but Du Tingxin insisted she wanted him to live and serve her instead.

Later, Du Tingxin sought an audience with Xiao Huan and Ling Cangcang, maintaining a respectful demeanor. Ling Cangcang observed that Du Tingxin seemed thinner and inquired about the medicine Du Tingxin was bringing for Xiao Huan, as he was still recovering from past injuries. Entering Wuying Hall, Du Tingxin told Xiao Huan she had "thought things through."

She apologized for overstepping her bounds and interfering in his and Ling Cangcang's personal affairs, acknowledging that as the Son of Heaven, his concerns extend beyond matters of state. She admitted her narrow-mindedness regarding the Jiangzhou matter and regretted betraying his trust, promising to adhere strictly to her duties. Xiao Huan responded that her sincerity mattered more than her remorse. She then presented a meticulously drawn waterworks map, which included records of annual tides, to aid the Ministry of Works.

Impressed by her diligence, Xiao Huan asked if the celestial signs indicated it was suitable to begin construction. Du Tingxin thanked him for another chance, vowing not to disappoint him, and Xiao Huan reaffirmed his belief in her meticulous capabilities. Xiao Ying excitedly told Xiao Qianqing she believed she was pregnant, asking if pregnant women often lose their appetite and sleep poorly.

Enraged by this news, Xiao Qianqing stormed into Wuying Hall, confronted Hongqing, and attempted to strike him, calling him a "beast" for taking advantage of his sister. Xiao Huan intervened, defending Hongqing and stating he was not that kind of man, while also believing his sister wouldn't lie about such a thing. Hongqing declared his innocence and offered his head if the accusation were true, swearing he and the Princess had remained pure. Xiao Huan summoned the imperial physician.

Ling Cangcang then accompanied Xiao Ying, where the physician revealed she was not pregnant but suffering from "love-sickness" due to missing Hongqing. Encouraged by Ling Cangcang, Xiao Ying found Hongqing and confessed her feelings, revealing she hadn't seen him for "seven days and ten hours" and couldn't eat or drink due to her thoughts of him. She asked if he liked her. From a distance, Xiao Qianqing lamented his "straightforward and adorable sister" falling for the "blockhead" Hongqing.

Hongqing, however, respectfully rejected Xiao Ying, stating he was "terrified" and "unworthy" of her. Xiao Ying attempted to protect Hongqing from her furious brother. Xiao Huan advised Hongqing to take time to consider his feelings, as forced affection brings no joy. Xiao Ying declared that she didn't mind if Hongqing didn't like her now, as he eventually would. Hongqing then excused himself. Ling Cangcang comforted a disheartened Xiao Ying, praising her bravery.

Xiao Qianqing complained to Xiao Huan, demanding he decree a marriage. Xiao Huan reiterated that marriage required mutual affection, citing that a forced match yields no joy. Xiao Qianqing retorted that the forced match between Xiao Huan and Ling Cangcang seemed "quite sweet" now. Xiao Qianqing found Zhong Lin and, feigning a scorpion bite that he claimed caused hallucinations, used the opportunity to confess his love and propose marriage.

Zhong Lin, aware of the scorpion's non-fatal venom, initially dismissed his theatrics but was moved by his sincere declarations. She then revealed a deep secret: since joining the Lingbi Sect, she had been afflicted with the incurable "Heartbane" poison, which was fused with her blood and would erupt whenever the "Heartbane Bell" rang. She lived in constant fear of any bell sound.

Despite her past and her condition, Xiao Qianqing insisted he was serious, reaffirming his desire to marry her, stating she had already "feigned death and escaped the Lingbi Sect" and was now "under his protection." He emphasized that he liked "her" specifically. Determined to marry Zhong Lin, Xiao Qianqing sought the Empress Dowager's blessing. She vehemently refused, disparaging Zhong Lin's unknown origin, questionable virtue, and "crooked and unorthodox ways," insisting she was not a proper maiden.

Xiao Qianqing passionately argued that Zhong Lin had saved his life multiple times, risking her own safety, and that her courage and loyalty surpassed all other women in his heart. He declared he would marry no one else. Meanwhile, the Empress Dowager had already orchestrated Zhong Lin's abduction to her chambers under the pretense of copying sutras. The room was filled with drugged incense, and a man was sent to defile her.

Xiao Qianqing burst in, thwarting the plot and furiously confronting his mother for using such "palace ploys" against his beloved. Later, in Wuying Hall, Xiao Qianqing formally requested Xiao Huan to grant the marriage. The Empress Dowager again objected, citing Zhong Lin's low status. Xiao Huan acknowledged that, by the rites of Great Qi, Zhong Lin's status was indeed too low to become a princess consort.

However, he praised Zhong Lin's upright character and her significant contributions to the state, including resolving the crisis in Xuzhou and retrieving the Frost Blossom, deeming these acts worthy of reward. He then decreed that Zhong Lin be granted the title of "Princess of Ding'an." Ling Cangcang immediately assured Zhong Lin that she and Xiao Huan were now her family and would protect her from any future harm.

Xiao Huan then asked Zhong Lin if she was willing to marry Xiao Qianqing, and she consented. A joyous Xiao Qianqing thanked Xiao Huan. Despite the imperial decree, Zhong Lin later expressed her insecurities to Xiao Qianqing, questioning if he was truly serious or merely pitying her, as she couldn't comprehend why a noble prince would desire someone like her, who had nothing. Xiao Qianqing tenderly reassured her that he simply loved her for who she was.

He acknowledged their shared past of wandering without rest but promised that with each other, their hearts could finally find peace. He declared her the woman he loved most. Zhong Lin, deeply touched, expressed her happiness, admitting she never imagined she could marry him. Xiao Qianqing then asked why she treated Ling Cangcang differently. Zhong Lin explained that from childhood, Ling Cangcang had been the only person who ever truly wished to protect her.

A flashback showed a young Ling Cangcang comforting a frightened Zhong Lin on her birthday, after she was beaten, and swearing sisterhood with her under a wishing tree, vowing eternal friendship and mutual support. Zhong Lin concluded by mentioning Ling Cangcang's selfless act of cutting down all the bells for her. Xiao Qianqing expressed his understanding. Separately, Xiao Ying saw a palace servant offering Hongqing a calming sachet. Jealously, Xiao Ying forbade him from accepting it and directly asked if his lack of affection for her was due to the other woman.

Princess Xiao Ying, now lucid and carefree, found joy in flying a kite outside the palace, with Hongqing attentively watching over her. When she stumbled, Hongqing rushed to protect her, but the kite string accidentally cut his hand. Seeing him injured because of her, Xiao Ying angrily threw her beloved kite away. She then tried to soothe his wound with her saliva, a remedy an old nanny once taught her.

Feeling cold, Xiao Ying playfully huddled inside Hongqing's large cloak, causing him to become visibly flustered and start trembling. She noted his fast heartbeat and asked if he was ill, but he nervously denied it. Feeling hungry, Xiao Ying was offered a meal by Hongqing, but her attention was drawn to a child eating tanghulu. Displaying her princess-like entitlement, she snatched the sweet treat, causing the child to cry and run home. Hongqing was visibly displeased by her actions.

Xiao Ying, sensing his unhappiness, quickly promised to mend her ways. She then confessed her feelings, telling him she only wished for his happiness and asked if he liked her. Hongqing, while not directly reciprocating, gently explained that if she learned right from wrong, she was quite lovable. He also clarified that he was unable to save her during the Luling Palace fire because he was young and unwell at the time, advising her not to blame Xiao Huan.

He then stated he would need to seek Emperor Xiao Huan's permission if he were to marry her. Overjoyed, Xiao Ying instantly planned to buy a new tanghulu for the child. Later that night, Xiao Ying burst into Xiao Huan and Ling Cangcang's bedchamber, eagerly inquiring if her brother would permit Hongqing to marry her. Xiao Huan, though annoyed by the late intrusion, promised to consider it, telling her to return the next morning for a formal discussion.

Princess Xiao Ying, still excited, insisted he "must" agree before leaving. Xiao Qianqing, overhearing the exchange, was secretly thrilled for his sister. Back in her own palace, Xiao Ying, now eager to become a "proper" wife, apologized to the servants she had mistreated in the past. She later confided in Xiao Qianqing, revealing Hongqing's explanation for the Luling Palace fire had made her release her resentment towards Xiao Huan.

She shared that Hongqing "kind of" liked her and would like her even more if she were more proper, which motivated her to stay up all night memorizing classics like the Analects of Confucius. Xiao Qianqing, proud of her growth, promised to wake her if Hongqing came to visit. Meanwhile, Xiao Huan and Xiao Qianqing engaged in a friendly archery competition.

Xiao Qianqing playfully warned Xiao Huan not to be a sore loser, but it was Xiao Huan who emerged victorious, much to Xiao Qianqing's chagrin. During the outing, Zhong Lin noticed Ling Cangcang's unusual craving for sour foods, which Ling Cangcang found delicious. Later, at a barbecue where Xiao Huan impressed everyone with his grilling skills, Ling Cangcang suddenly felt nauseous and vomited, complaining that the fish tasted "fishy." Physician Li was immediately summoned.

After examining her, Physician Li joyfully announced that Ling Cangcang was pregnant with Xiao Huan's child, advising the couple to be cautious and avoid overexertion. Overwhelmed with happiness, Xiao Huan thanked Ling Cangcang and insisted Physician Li stay in the capital for the duration of the pregnancy. Witnessing Xiao Huan's profound joy at the news of his impending fatherhood, Du Tingxin felt a surge of bitterness.

She lamented the perceived unfairness of the Xiao family's happiness after their supposed role in her mother's demise. In a drunken state, mistaking Lu Qi for the Emperor, she bitterly asked if he liked children, or if he only cared for the child he was having with Ling Cangcang. Her anger simmered, solidifying her resolve for revenge. Xiao Huan, now overly protective, discovered fantasy storybooks in Ling Cangcang's room.

He angrily deemed them inappropriate for "prenatal education" and instead gave her a "Tales of Rivers and Mountains" travelogue to read. He also presented her with a lavish spread of food, including Five-spice crispy fish, Crystal mutton jelly, and Stuffed eight-treasure duck, but Ling Cangcang, suffering from morning sickness, found them all unappetizing. Annoyed by the waste, Xiao Qianqing arranged for the dishes to be packed and sent to his manor for him and Zhong Lin.

Ling Cangcang, feeling increasingly confined, yearned to see her father, Ling Xuefeng, who was tending to plants in a secluded courtyard, uttering cryptic words about great deeds when his seeds sprouted. Xiao Huan, in his meticulous concern for Ling Cangcang and the baby, imposed stringent controls on her life—changing her incense, forbidding sword practice, and having guards constantly watch her chamber.

Feeling like a "pampered hothouse flower" stripped of her freedom, Ling Cangcang confronted Xiao Huan, who gently explained these measures were for their child's safety. She reluctantly agreed to comply until Physician Li gave her clearance. Xiao Huan further instructed Eunuch Feng Wufu to meticulously inspect all of Ling Cangcang's food and belongings and tasked Xiao Qianqing with monitoring Ling Xuefeng, ensuring he received a cough remedy of coltsfoot blossoms.

Meanwhile, Du Tingxin obtained critical intelligence: Shi Yan was planning a surprise attack on the Lingbi Sect's Langye Mountain branch in two days. She decided to leak this information to the Lingbi Sect, calculating that Shi Yan's downfall would destabilize Hongqing's position, thereby creating an opportunity for Lu Qi to rise. The Lingbi Sect's Saintess received the intelligence and confirmed its accuracy.

Hongqing, upon hearing that Shi Yan had been ambushed, volunteered to leave the capital to rescue him and investigate the truth, a request Xiao Huan granted. Before his departure, Hongqing briefed Lu Qi on palace security, reminding him of strict lighting protocols in the cold palace. He also specifically asked Lu Qi to look after Xiao Ying, advising him to tell her that the flower she was tending would soon bloom, provided she refrained from getting angry or violent.

Xiao Ying, indeed, was seen lovingly nurturing a potted plant, eagerly anticipating its bloom. Upon learning of Hongqing's mission, she declared she would not eat until he returned, devising a plan to reduce her food intake daily, vowing to starve herself if he didn't come back within ten days. When a concerned Lu Qi tried to dissuade her, Xiao Ying angrily dismissed him, stating she did not like him.

A guard attempted to serve Princess Xiao Ying her meal, but she dismissively told him to leave, expressing her dislike for him. The guard, however, quickly mentioned that Commander Hongqing had left a message for her. Xiao Ying’s demeanor softened, and she eagerly inquired about the message. The guard relayed Hongqing's words: if she remained calm, did not lash out, and behaved, the flower she was tending would soon bloom.

Though she complained that the guard didn't deliver the message as nicely as Hongqing would have, Xiao Ying composed herself and agreed to eat. Soon after, Empress Ling Cangcang arrived, worried that Xiao Ying would still be angry about Hongqing’s sudden departure. Xiao Ying, however, surprised her by declaring that she had forgiven them, calling it a secret she wouldn't share.

When Xiao Ying asked when Hongqing would return, Ling Cangcang admitted she didn't know but assured the princess that Emperor Xiao Huan would have a surprise for her upon Hongqing’s return. Inspired to prepare a return gift, Xiao Ying decided to make a sachet after Ling Cangcang affirmed that a handmade gift from the heart was the most precious.

Ling Cangcang later reported to Xiao Huan that Xiao Ying seemed to be handling Hongqing’s absence with unusual stability, which pleased the Emperor. Ling Cangcang then expressed her hope for Hongqing’s safe return. Xiao Huan, confident in his meticulous and trusted general, noticed a sachet nearby and mistakenly thought Xiao Ying had made it for Hongqing. Ling Cangcang, slightly embarrassed, clarified that she had made it for Xiao Huan.

Initially surprised, Xiao Huan quickly recovered and praised her skilled embroidery, assuring her he cherished the gift. Meanwhile, Du Tingxin discussed with General Lu Qi that Princess Xiao Ying was genuinely in love with Hongqing, but she doubted Hongqing would return alive, believing the Lingbi Sect would surely kill him. General Lu expressed concern that Du Tingxin's powerful ally was dangerous and saw her merely as a pawn.

Du Tingxin, whom General Lu addresses as the National Master, brushed off his concern, asserting her desire to live freely and not be controlled by others. She then reaffirmed that the Lingbi Sect was capable of taking Li Hongqing's life. During his mission, Hongqing infiltrated the Lingbi Sect to rescue General Shi Yan. Inside, he encountered Luo Xianxue, who unexpectedly helped him secure Shi Yan's escape. With many pursuers closing in, Hongqing decided to stay behind as a distraction.

Before creating the diversion, he entrusted Shi Yan to Luo Xianxue, urging him to take Shi Yan to the capital and report the Lingbi Sect's activities to the Emperor and Empress. He also reassured Luo Xianxue that he would not die, as someone was waiting for his return. Luo Xianxue, in turn, told Hongqing to be careful.

Back in the palace, Xiao Ying continued to nurture her Blaze Blossom, reminiscing about Hongqing's promise to take her to see a sea of blossoms when it bloomed. When a servant brought her dinner, she remembered Hongqing’s words about not bullying the weak and reluctantly ate. Unable to bear the suspense any longer, she went to find Xiao Huan. There, she saw Hongqing’s sword.

Xiao Huan tried to soften the blow, suggesting that because no body had been found, Hongqing might still be alive. However, a general revealed the grim truth: Hongqing had sacrificed himself to distract the Lingbi Sect's elites after they set an ambush, leading to his presumed death by falling off a cliff, with only his sword recovered. The general also mentioned that Luo Xianxue had saved the mission from total failure.

Xiao Huan sternly ordered the general to continue the search and to ensure Xiao Ying remained ignorant. But it was too late; Xiao Ying had overheard everything. Overwhelmed with grief and rage, Xiao Ying accused Xiao Huan of intentionally sending Hongqing to his death because he disliked their relationship. She refused to call him "brother," insisting only her other brother, Xiao Qianqing, had that right.

Xiao Huan tried to calm her, reminding her he was her brother and desired her happiness, but she defiantly challenged him to prove it by promising her something. Concerned by Xiao Ying's erratic behavior, Xiao Huan summoned Prince Xiao Qianqing. Meanwhile, Ling Cangcang went to check on Xiao Ying and discovered her room in disarray. Beneath a moved carpet, she found a disturbing drawing: a figure crowned like the Emperor with a dagger pointing at his heart.

Realizing the danger, Ling Cangcang quickly dispatched servants to notify General Lu and summon Xiao Qianqing, while she hurried to Wuying Hall to find Xiao Huan. At the same time, the conspiracy against the Emperor moved forward. Having been secretly instigated by General Lu, who manipulated her grief into a thirst for revenge, Xiao Ying was preparing to use a legendary Dual-Pupil Art, a process that was causing her to lose her sanity.

Du Tingxin confirmed to General Lu that she had been subtly tampering with Xiao Huan's daily pills to make him drowsy and less alert. Elsewhere, their ally, Ling Xuefeng, prepared to make his move. Oblivious, Xiao Huan was indeed feeling drowsy after taking his medicine. Xiao Ying, having performed a ritual that involved cutting her hand to allow a worm to enter her body, confronted Xiao Huan.

As he attempted to reason with his distraught sister, Xiao Ying lunged at him with a dagger. General Lu rushed to intervene but was struck by her. Just then, Ling Cangcang burst into the hall and bravely tried to stop Xiao Ying, pleading with her to remember Hongqing's promise to take her to see the flower sea. Enraged, Xiao Ying violently pushed Ling Cangcang away. The Empress stumbled and was struck in the abdomen, collapsing instantly and suffering a miscarriage.

Xiao Qianqing arrived to find his sister in a trance-like state and the Empress injured. Understanding the grave situation, he immediately begged Xiao Huan to spare Xiao Ying's life. But Xiao Huan, heartbroken and furious over the loss of his child and Ling Cangcang’s unconscious state, was in no mood for mercy. Imperial Physician Li assured Xiao Huan that Ling Cangcang had a strong constitution and would likely recover if she regained consciousness.

Despite this, Xiao Huan refused to leave her side, ignoring pleas to rest. He also banished Xiao Qianqing, ordering him to remain kneeling outside. The next morning, Ling Cangcang finally awoke. Her first concern was for Xiao Huan's safety, asking if he was hurt. Xiao Huan, deeply relieved, assured her that he was fine.

Ling Cangcang's first concern upon waking was her baby. When Xiao Huan told her they would have other children, she began to cry, lamenting her failure to protect him. Xiao Huan consoled her, taking the blame for not protecting them both. Ling Cangcang reassured him, saying she didn't blame him and that as long as they were together, they would get through it and have another child.

Xiao Huan informed Xiao Qianqing that Ling Cangcang had awakened and that it was her reminder of their bond that moved him. He recalled that Xiao Qianqing was his only brother, who had once risked his life to bring him life-saving medicine, and for that, he was willing to show leniency. A grateful Xiao Qianqing pleaded with Xiao Huan to spare Xiao Ying's life. Xiao Huan agreed, ordering Xiao Ying to be returned to the cold palace.

However, he warned Xiao Qianqing that indulgence was not true love and that Xiao Ying's sudden change suggested a mastermind was behind the assassination attempt. He tasked Xiao Qianqing with uncovering the truth, and Xiao Qianqing vowed to investigate thoroughly, promising no favoritism even if their mother, Empress Dowager Liu, was involved. Later, Xiao Qianqing confronted a catatonic Xiao Ying.

Expressing deep regret, he told his sister that his failure to teach her right from wrong had allowed others to manipulate her. Believing she must pay a price for her actions and to prevent her from being used again, he severed her meridians, crippling her ability to ever create poisons. As she cried out in pain, he vowed to take care of her forever.

Xiao Qianqing then confronted his mother, Empress Dowager Liu, questioning her involvement in Xiao Ying's assassination attempt. She vehemently denied it, arguing that while she wished Xiao Huan dead, she would not be foolish enough to use an unstable Xiao Ying, knowing it would implicate her and the entire Liu clan. She insisted she would not risk her own downfall in such a manner. Reporting to Xiao Huan, Xiao Qianqing explained his belief that his mother was not the culprit.

He revealed that Xiao Ying had used a toxic insect called Dual-Pupil, which grants a temporary surge of power before rapidly destroying the user's mind. Since Xiao Ying was lucid during the attack but severely impaired afterward, and his mother would not endorse such a self-destructive method, he concluded someone else was manipulating her. He noted that activating the Dual-Pupil required consuming the rare and illicit Gold Incense, which became the primary clue.

He vowed to find the true mastermind within five days. Zhong Lin arrived with red flying ants, explaining that these ants, which grow on thousand-year-old golden nanmu dead branches, are highly attracted to the colorless and tasteless Gold Incense, detecting it from a distance. Xiao Qianqing thanked her for the crucial clue.

Zhong Lin clarified her actions were for Xiao Qianqing, Xiao Ying, and Ling Cangcang, and she was determined to find the culprit who caused the loss of the child. When Xiao Qianqing asked whom she would choose if he were to abandon his status and leave the capital permanently, him or Ling Cangcang, Zhong Lin replied that Ling Cangcang's happiness was her only wish, but she would follow him wherever he went.

Upon learning of Ling Cangcang's miscarriage, Ling Xuefeng was consumed by rage and fainted. Xiao Huan, informed of Ling Xuefeng's collapse, secretly instructed his guards to find the best imperial physician for him and, unbeknownst to Ling Cangcang, ensure father and daughter could see each other one last time if his condition worsened. Later, Du Tingxin met with Ling Xuefeng. He angrily blamed her for his unborn grandchild's death.

Du Tingxin retorted that he was also responsible and provocatively suggested he had no way out. In response, Ling Xuefeng revealed his secret pawn, Zhang Heng, the commander of the Capital Patrol Office, declaring that he had shown his final hand and retreat was no longer an option.

As Du Tingxin left, Ling Xuefeng ominously warned Lu Qi about the previous Imperial Preceptor, whom he had personally executed by fire for having an illicit affair, a clear threat referencing Lu Qi's relationship with Du Tingxin. Xiao Qianqing presented Xiao Huan with a list of those who visited the cold palace and the red flying ants for detecting Gold Incense. Xiao Huan noticed Lu Qi's name was absent.

Although Xiao Qianqing vouched for Lu Qi's loyalty, Xiao Huan found Lu Qi's excuse of sudden illness on the day of Xiao Ying's attack suspicious and summoned him for testing. After Lu Qi's departure, Xiao Huan ordered his men to discreetly monitor him. Later, Ling Cangcang found Xiao Huan burdened by worries. He admitted to having leads but no definitive answers about the mastermind. Ling Cangcang made him promise they would face all challenges together.

Xiao Huan revealed he had secretly summoned Zhong Lin and Luo Xianxue to protect her, as he trusted few in the palace after Hongqing's disappearance. Ling Cangcang grew fearful, asking if her father, Ling Xuefeng, truly hadn't given up. Xiao Huan reassured her of his protection, stating Ling Xuefeng's crimes were unforgivable, but the innocent would not be harmed. Meanwhile, unknown to Lu Qi, Xiao Qianqing was tracking him.

He observed Lu Qi entering a wine house and meeting Zhang Heng. Xiao Huan and Xiao Qianqing deduced that Ling Xuefeng was orchestrating a plot for the upcoming Imperial Assembly. Xiao Huan realized Ling Xuefeng had been secretly manipulating events all along, with Zhang Heng being a deep-cover agent. At the Imperial Assembly, Du Tingxin presented Tusu wine as a pretext. Ling Xuefeng then boldly led his soldiers into the hall, initiating his rebellion.

From a distance, Ling Cangcang watched with deep concern for Xiao Huan. Discarding all pretense, Ling Xuefeng declared his intention to "send His Majesty on his way." However, Xiao Huan revealed his own preparedness, stating he had spent the night replacing the Imperial Guards with his loyal men. He had deliberately allowed Zhang Heng to remain in his position to expose all the officials in court who would side with Ling Xuefeng's treason.

Seeing that his rebellion was fully exposed, Ling Xuefeng declared his intention to send His Majesty off on his final journey, ordering his guards to attack. The palace was plunged into chaos as the Emperor’s forces clashed with Ling Xuefeng's rebels. Du Tingxin, standing close to Xiao Huan, watched the dangerous scene unfold with wide eyes, secretly hoping for Ling Xuefeng's victory.

When a rebel moved to attack Xiao Huan, Xiao Qianqing rushed forward, but Ling Jueding, who had just returned, was quicker and struck the traitor down. Ling Xuefeng stared at his own son, who now stood with the Emperor against him, and their gazes met without a trace of their former father-son affection. Ling Xuefeng was shocked that Xiao Huan had secretly brought Ling Jueding back to the Capital to deliver a fatal blow.

Ling Jueding urged his father to abandon his path, but Ling Xuefeng retorted that he didn't need his son's lecture. Ling Xuefeng then acknowledged Xiao Huan, admitting that he was truly the finest student he had ever taught and that he was defeated fair and square.

Xiao Qianqing confronted Ling Xuefeng, accusing him of ordering Lu Qi to manipulate Xiao Ying into assassinating Xiao Huan and, when that failed, attempting a desperate coup at the Grand Imperial Assembly to seize the throne. Ling Xuefeng responded with a cynical remark about victors being kings and losers being nothing, implying that all crimes, old and new, would be attributed to him. He then questioned Lu Qi about whether he should admit to these crimes.

Fearing that Ling Xuefeng would expose Du Tingxin, Lu Qi attempted to kill Ling Xuefeng publicly. However, Ling Xuefeng was heavily guarded, making him inaccessible. Lu Qi considered taking his own life but hesitated, remembering Du Tingxin. Seeing Lu Qi look her way, Du Tingxin, in a fit of panic, rushed forward, seized a blade, and slit Lu Qi's throat, killing him on the spot. Ling Xuefeng remained silent as Du Tingxin committed the act.

Xiao Huan did not notice anything unusual about Du Tingxin, nor did he suspect her. Ling Cangcang learned from Luo Xianxue that Ling Xuefeng had been imprisoned in Fayun Temple, realizing there was no turning back for her father. Du Tingxin, experiencing a hallucination, saw Lu Qi and asked if he regretted his actions. Lu Qi, in her vision, affirmed he had no regrets and would gladly die for her before disappearing.

Du Tingxin then resolved that Ling Xuefeng could not be allowed to live, and Xiao Huan must also die. Ling Cangcang visited Ling Xuefeng, questioning why he pursued what was never his, despite the Emperor having offered him a peaceful retirement. Ling Xuefeng explained that he had dedicated his life to Great Qi, striving for power to protect his family from the historical fate of fallen ministers.

He concluded by saying he had no regrets about his actions, only about being outmaneuvered. Ling Xuefeng informed Ling Cangcang that Ling Jueding had requested to lead the entire Ling clan to the cold northern frontiers to guard the borders of Great Qi, never to return to the Capital. Ling Cangcang tearfully bid her father farewell. Ling Xuefeng then confessed that his greatest regret was dragging her into his schemes.

He offered her the chance to leave the Capital with Ling Jueding, wishing her peace and happiness. As Ling Cangcang turned to leave, an assassin attacked Ling Xuefeng. Luo Xianxue sacrificed himself to protect both Ling Cangcang and Ling Xuefeng, dying in Ling Cangcang's arms. Ling Cangcang, heartbroken, pleaded with Luo Xianxue not to die, reminding him of his vow to live for her. Ling Xuefeng was deeply distressed by Luo Xianxue's death.

As Ling Cangcang helped a gravely injured Ling Xuefeng outside, he was struck by an unseen arrow. Witnessing this, Du Tingxin lamented that all those who truly cared for her were gone, and she vowed to make others experience the same grief of losing loved ones. The imperial physician informed Xiao Huan and Ling Cangcang that they should prepare for Ling Xuefeng's final rites, but Physician Li arrived to treat him.

Xiao Huan suspected there was a mastermind behind the events, as Ling Xuefeng had not fully admitted that Xiao Ying was responsible for the assassination attempt, suggesting he was protecting someone. Ling Cangcang mentioned that Ling Xuefeng had uttered a cryptic word before being struck, which she believed was connected to this hidden individual. To ensure Ling Xuefeng's safety, Xiao Huan decided to keep him secretly at Fayun Temple to recover, while publicly announcing his death.

Ling Cangcang expressed concern about the danger if the mastermind was close to them. Xiao Huan revealed he had a plan to uncover the individual, but made Ling Cangcang promise to prioritize her own safety, as he would be vulnerable. Meanwhile, Xiao Ying spent her days cradling a flower pot, waiting for it to bloom, her memory still confused.

Ling Cangcang patiently encouraged Xiao Ying to dress nicely, playfully suggesting the flowers wouldn't bloom otherwise, and helped her recall Li Hongqing's name by telling her stories about him. Du Tingxin, while treating Xiao Huan, quickly left upon Xiao Qianqing's arrival.

Xiao Qianqing confessed to Xiao Huan that his past opposition and attempts to "dethrone" him were not out of malice, but a misguided effort to free Xiao Huan from the burdens of emperorship, knowing his brother’s true desire was to roam freely in the martial world. Xiao Qianqing declared that with their greatest enemy defeated, it was time for him to withdraw from court.

He requested permission to leave the capital with Xiao Ying and Zhong Lin to search for Li Hongqing, offering to return his royal seal and military token. Xiao Huan questioned if he truly wanted to leave without seeking the truth about what happened to Xiao Ying.

Xiao Qianqing initially believed Ling Xuefeng was the culprit, but Xiao Huan revealed that the attempt on Ling Xuefeng's life suggested a deeper conspiracy, indicating that the true mastermind was still at large and likely connected to Xiao Ying's attack. Zhong Lin discovered the Soul-Severing Grass, which grows in volcanic craters and possesses an intensely fiery medicinal property that can expel venomous parasites. She believed the Soul-Severing Flame could force the Dual-Pupil parasite out of Xiao Ying, restoring her consciousness.

Xiao Huan immediately volunteered to administer the treatment, but Zhong Lin warned that the flame would instantly scorch flesh, making it uncontrollable for ordinary people. She explained that only Xiao Huan, due to his unusually cold constitution, could withstand its power, though it would deplete his inner force and cause burns. Xiao Huan, unwavering, accepted the risk. During the treatment, Xiao Ying cried out in pain, leading Xiao Qianqing to demand that Xiao Huan stop, heartbroken by his sister’s suffering.

Xiao Qianqing argued that Xiao Huan was willing to inflict pain on Xiao Ying to get to the truth, claiming that since she was not his full-blooded sister, he could be ruthless. He then declared his intention to take Xiao Ying away and care for her for the rest of her life. Ling Cangcang stepped in, challenging Xiao Qianqing.

She reminded him that Xiao Huan, having endured extraordinary pain since childhood for a chance at a brighter future, understood Xiao Ying's suffering better than anyone. She argued that letting Xiao Ying remain in her current state, forgetting everyone and everything, would condemn her to a lifetime of sorrow, making her recovery paramount for her true happiness.

Ling Cangcang expressed her concern to Xiao Qianqing about Xiao Ying's current state, observing that Xiao Ying remembered nothing, not even Li Hongqing, and questioned if she could truly find happiness living like this. At that moment, Xiao Ying herself experienced a breakthrough, recalling her desire to leave the palace with her brother, Xiao Qianqing. This sudden memory caused Du Tingxin great alarm.

Fearing that Xiao Ying remembering more could expose her, Du Tingxin declared that Xiao Ying must die and instructed her attendants to ensure it. Du Tingxin also reflected on Xiao Huan's resilience, noting that neither Xiao Ying's previous attempts nor Ling Xuefeng's efforts had succeeded in killing him, leading her to conclude that she must eliminate him herself.

Empress Dowager Liu was consumed with worry over Xiao Qianqing's lack of interest in marriage, lamenting his absence from Xuanguang Hall and accusing him of abandoning her for a "lowborn woman" (referring to Ling Cangcang). She dismissed the idea of him being busy with state affairs, expressing frustration that he didn't care for his duties. Du Tingxin then approached the Empress Dowager, offering her homemade Rest Incense, an unusual gesture.

Du Tingxin subtly began to sow seeds of discord, first feigning humility and then "accidentally" revealing that Xiao Qianqing had relinquished his royal seal and command tally to the Emperor, praising him for his "upright and selfless" act of withdrawing from power. Upon hearing this, Empress Dowager Liu immediately summoned Xiao Qianqing.

When confronted, Xiao Qianqing confirmed he had indeed handed over his royal seal and command tally, stating he had thought it through and desired true freedom away from the burdens of power. His mother furiously rebuked him, reminding him of Xiao Huan's calculating nature and warning that such actions could lead to their deaths. Xiao Qianqing accepted any punishment, but questioned his mother's love for him and Xiao Ying.

He accused her of orchestrating the fire at Luling Palace that led to Xiao Ying's current condition and implicitly linked her to the previous empress's sudden death and Xiao Huan's cold poison. Xiao Qianqing asserted that the palace was a gilded cage where neither she nor Xiao Ying had found happiness. He declared his unwavering decision to take Xiao Ying away from the palace and back to Southern Chu once she recovered, seeking freedom for them both.

Empress Dowager Liu was visibly pained by his words. Later, Zhong Lin found a despondent Xiao Qianqing nursing a wound, inquiring if his mother had hit him. He admitted to being in a bad mood and in pain, to which Zhong Lin shared her own experiences of childhood beatings and offered him a special healing salve. Xiao Qianqing thanked Zhong Lin for her unwavering support during his most difficult times.

He then confided his decision to leave the palace with both Zhong Lin and Xiao Ying, planning to travel the world together, free and unrestrained. Zhong Lin eagerly agreed to join him. Xiao Ying continued her daily ritual of sunbathing with a small tree. When Empress Dowager Liu visited, Xiao Ying happily told her that Xiao Huan, whom she affectionately referred to as the "fun, pretty Empress," had promised to cure her and that her brother also liked him.

Empress Dowager Liu, enraged, warned Xiao Ying not to trust the Emperor's "lies." She then attempted to manipulate Xiao Ying into convincing Xiao Qianqing to reclaim his royal seal. However, Xiao Ying, seemingly on the verge of recalling more, suddenly asked her, "Mother, what did you give Father to drink?"

This question sent a chill down Empress Dowager Liu's spine, as she realized Xiao Ying's memory was returning and that the princess now posed a grave threat, cementing her belief that Xiao Ying had to be eliminated. Meanwhile, Hongqing, who had previously fallen off a cliff, awoke to find himself in Lujiao Village, rescued by two hunters who brought him back after finding him severely injured.

Though the village physician had believed he wouldn't survive, Hongqing had miraculously pulled through after fifteen days of unconsciousness. Immediately upon waking, he urgently requested to be taken to Fenglai Pavilion, promising the hunters a substantial reward for saving his life. Back in the palace, Xiao Ying, during a session with Xiao Huan, revealed that someone had told her Hongqing was dead and had given her a box containing incense with a familiar medicinal scent.

Connecting this to the late Emperor's last words, Xiao Huan's suspicions heavily fell on Du Tingxin as the mastermind behind these events. Xiao Huan had previously written a vow for Ling Cangcang, promising to travel the mountains and roam the martial world with her. Now, he made plans to send her away, revealing in an internal monologue that he suspected Du Tingxin was the true culprit and her influence ran deep within the palace.

He knew that if he moved against her, she would retaliate fiercely, and Ling Cangcang would be his weakness. Sending her away safely was the only way he could act decisively. He instructed Ling Cangcang to take a thousand-year lingzhi, a powerful tonic, to Ling Xuefeng, who was reportedly recovering at Fayun Temple and expected to wake soon, emphasizing that she should be by his side.

Although Ling Cangcang was reluctant to leave him, Xiao Huan reaffirmed their vow for a future free of palace intrigue. Elsewhere, Du Tingxin sought assistance from the Lingbi Sect, using a Golden Snake hairpin left by her mother as a means of seeking their help, a move that exposed her deep ambition. She then returned to the palace to consolidate her power by distributing lavish "gifts" to the palace stewards.

When one steward, Yan, refused her bribe, citing her desire to retire, Du Tingxin revealed she knew all about the bribes Yan had taken over the years, displaying her detailed knowledge of their corruption. She brutally executed those who defied her, using their written crimes as justification, thereby terrifying the remaining stewards into absolute loyalty.

Xiao Qianqing arrived and confronted Du Tingxin, questioning her authority to execute palace staff without permission, but his words went unheeded as she continued to replace key personnel with her own chosen appointees, effectively gaining control over the harem and the court. Back with Xiao Ying, Xiao Huan gave her a jade pendant, instructing her to give it to Xiao Qianqing once they left the palace.

He wished for both his siblings to live happily, away from the palace's coldness, and hoped his suspicions about the culprit were merely conjectures. He explained that he gave the pendant to her directly because Xiao Qianqing would ask too many questions. He instructed her that if she ever faced danger, she could use the pendant to seek unlimited money or help from Fenglai Pavilion.

Emotionally, he apologized to Xiao Ying, stating he hoped she and her brother would find happiness, as he foresaw the difficult path ahead. Xiao Ying, however, was desperate to regain her full memory of Hongqing and insisted on continuing her painful treatment, even resorting to self-harm when Xiao Huan hesitated. He reluctantly agreed. As Xiao Huan began the treatment, Empress Dowager Liu burst in, accusing him of cruelly torturing Xiao Ying and pleading with him to stop.

She pulled Xiao Ying away, offering to let her rest and end her suffering. Tragically, Xiao Ying collapsed in her arms, crying out that she was in great pain before dying. Xiao Qianqing arrived just as Xiao Ying passed, desperately trying to revive her, but it was too late. Empress Dowager Liu immediately blamed Xiao Huan for Xiao Ying's death, while Xiao Qianqing, bewildered, also harbored suspicions toward his imperial brother.

In his anguish, Xiao Qianqing desperately tried to rouse Xiao Ying, whispering promises of their future together—traveling to Southern Chu with Zhong Lin and searching for Hongqing, reminding her of her beloved Blaze Blossoms, which were now on the verge of blooming.

The Empress Dowager, however, continued her manipulative tactics, insisting that Xiao Ying was merely playing a trick, perhaps experimenting with her curious medicines, and reiterated her accusation that Xiao Huan was responsible for Xiao Ying's demise, clearly intending to incite conflict between the brothers. Soon after, Hongqing finally returned to the palace, only to be met with Xiao Qianqing's angry rebuke for being absent and presumed dead.

Hongqing, refusing to accept Xiao Ying's death, learned from a palace servant that she had died trying to expel the Dual-Pupil insect to regain her memories, enduring unimaginable pain. Overcome with grief, Hongqing vowed he would protect Princess Ying for life and attempted to carry her body away. Xiao Qianqing blocked his path with a blade, but Hongqing, unwavering, declared he was not afraid.

After Princess Ying's death, Hongqing, grieving deeply, approached Xiao Qianqing, who was guarding his sister's body. Overcome with sorrow and rage, Xiao Qianqing threatened to kill Hongqing. Hongqing, however, insisted that he had returned only to fulfill Princess Ying's dying wish to see the fields of flowers beyond the palace walls, expressing profound regret that he couldn't take her out sooner.

Recalling Princess Ying's heartfelt words about her love for him and her desire to travel, Hongqing took her body to honor her final wish after Xiao Qianqing, still distraught, gave him two hours to return. Meanwhile, Empress Dowager Liu mourned Princess Ying, reminiscing about her as a cheerful, chubby baby.

Du Tingxin arrived, offering condolences but subtly implicated the Empress Dowager herself by noting that Princess Ying, who had shown signs of recovery, declined and died immediately after Empress Dowager Liu's visit. Deflecting, the Empress Dowager accused Xiao Huan of causing her daughter's demise. Du Tingxin then revealed her true intentions: to assist Empress Dowager Liu in eliminating her "real threat" and helping Xiao Qianqing seize the throne.

She explained her own deep-seated resentment towards Xiao Huan, whose betrayal had transformed her disappointment into hatred. Du Tingxin proposed a risky plan: Empress Dowager Liu would take a potent poison that induces a deathlike trance while keeping the user conscious. She presented the antidote, assuring her it would revive her, and even took the poison herself to prove its efficacy. Seeing an opportunity for revenge, Empress Dowager Liu, convinced by Du Tingxin's assurances, agreed to the dangerous charade.

Elsewhere, Ling Cangcang rushed to see her father, Ling Xuefeng, after hearing he showed signs of waking. Upon her arrival, Physician Li’s panicked reaction, coupled with Ling Xuefeng's weak but persistent murmuring of "Preceptor Du," made Ling Cangcang realize Xiao Huan had deceived her. He had deliberately sent her away from the palace to protect her from Du Tingxin, the true mastermind.

Ling Xuefeng confirmed her suspicions, revealing that Xiao Huan had entrusted her with the Imperial Seal as a means to ensure her survival. Refusing to abandon Xiao Huan, Ling Cangcang vowed to stand by him and immediately hastened back to the palace with the Imperial Seal. Back in the palace, Xiao Huan found Xiao Qianqing still mourning. He offered his apologies and pledged to investigate Princess Ying's death thoroughly.

Xiao Qianqing, overwhelmed by guilt, blamed himself for allowing Xiao Huan to treat his sister. Xiao Huan urged him to consider the suspicious circumstances, suggesting someone had actively worked against her recovery. At that moment, Empress Dowager Liu arrived, dismissing Xiao Huan’s words. She passionately accused Xiao Huan of murdering Princess Ying as revenge for the Empress's lost child and to eliminate threats like Ling Xuefeng, with Xiao Qianqing next.

Feeling deeply hurt by Xiao Qianqing's wavering trust, Empress Dowager Liu dramatically consumed the poison. With her last breaths, she warned Xiao Qianqing against trusting Xiao Huan. Devastated, Xiao Qianqing confronted Xiao Huan, accusing him of orchestrating all their suffering, and stabbed him. News of the attack reached Du Tingxin, who was elated her plan was succeeding. Reflecting on her and her mother’s difficult lives, she declared her resolve to defy fate.

She then confronted Xiao Huan and his guards, openly declaring a rebellion. Xiao Huan accused her of being the mastermind behind Ling Xuefeng's plot, but she feigned ignorance. When informed that Ling Cangcang was missing, Xiao Huan accused Du Tingxin of deliberately letting her escape. Enraged, Du Tingxin ordered Ling Cangcang killed on sight if she returned and commanded her forces to execute Xiao Huan.

However, Xiao Qianqing, who had only wounded Xiao Huan, intervened, stating that a quick death would be too merciful. Du Tingxin relented, ordering Xiao Huan imprisoned instead. She then urged Xiao Qianqing to claim the throne, presenting herself as a loyal Imperial Preceptor. Xiao Qianqing, calling her a "pitiful lunatic," initially refused but agreed to an alliance on two conditions: Xiao Huan remains alive until the funerals, and Du Tingxin revives the Empress Dowager.

Du Tingxin explained her motive for rebellion stemmed from bitter resentment over Xiao Huan carelessly offering Ling Cangcang the life-saving medicine she had painstakingly prepared for him. Later, Du Tingxin dismissed her guards and spoke to the seemingly lifeless Empress Dowager Liu. She revealed that she knew the Empress Dowager, fueled by jealousy over the late Emperor’s affections, had eliminated all the women he favored, including her own mother.

Du Tingxin then chillingly confessed that the "fake death" poison was a slow-acting toxin that would kill her in three days, by which time she would already be sealed within her coffin. Soon after, ministers confronted Xiao Qianqing, demanding a proper imperial funeral for Princess Ying. Xiao Qianqing fiercely condemned their hypocrisy, reminding them they had never treated Princess Ying as a princess while she was confined to the cold palace.

He refused to allow her to be imprisoned in a mausoleum in death as she was in life, threatening a minister who insisted on rituals. As he lamented that they denied her peace in both life and death, Zhong Lin approached, offering comfort and promising to remain by his side. Unbeknownst to them, Du Tingxin watched from the shadows.

Xiao Qianqing confides in Zhong Lin, expressing that she is now the only person he has left. Zhong Lin, however, calls him foolish, reminding him that he still has His Majesty, Xiao Huan, who treats him like a brother. Xiao Qianqing vehemently denies this, asserting that his mother, the Empress Dowager, and his sister, Xiao Ying, were both murdered by Xiao Huan. Zhong Lin is stunned, struggling to believe such an accusation and insisting there must be a misunderstanding.

Xiao Qianqing dismisses her disbelief, stating he witnessed the truth himself. He bitterly expresses his resentment, having considered Xiao Huan a brother, only to realize Xiao Huan was never truly sincere. Zhong Lin persists in defending Xiao Huan and reminds Xiao Qianqing of Ling Cangcang, who she believes would never permit such an act. Offended, Xiao Qianqing accuses Zhong Lin of siding with them and breaking her promise to always stand by him.

Aware that they are being spied upon, he painfully pushes her away, ordering her to leave. Zhong Lin, sensing Xiao Qianqing is hiding something, questions if something has happened to His Majesty and Ling Cangcang, urging him not to make a decision he will regret. Despite her pleas, Xiao Qianqing harshly tells her to leave. Zhong Lin, disheartened, reluctantly departs. Unbeknownst to them, Imperial Preceptor Du Tingxin has been listening in.

She confronts Xiao Qianqing, remarking on his volatile temper for chasing Zhong Lin away. Xiao Qianqing challenges her interference in his personal affairs. Du Tingxin, however, proposes monitoring Zhong Lin, suggesting it might reveal the Empress's whereabouts. Xiao Qianqing sternly warns Du Tingxin not to overstep her bounds. He declares his ambition to seize the throne and everything from Xiao Huan, emphasizing that until then, Du Tingxin must not interfere.

When Du Tingxin questions his trust, Xiao Qianqing states they are merely using each other and warns her not to provoke him. Du Tingxin, noting his reckless nature, insists that Zhong Lin is a crucial piece of their plan. Xiao Qianqing delivers a final warning, asserting that Zhong Lin is his and he doesn't need Du Tingxin's help. Du Tingxin retorts that if Zhong Lin acts imprudently, even he won't be able to protect her.

Zhong Lin, reflecting on Xiao Qianqing's uncharacteristic behavior, suspects he is concealing vital information. She finds herself being followed and confronts the men, learning they were sent by Xiao Qianqing. Frustrated by his secretive actions, Zhong Lin feigns weariness to dismiss her guards. She then makes her way to Ling Cangcang, discovering her severely wounded by an arrow.

Ling Cangcang, recalling an earlier warning from His Majesty about a "warning arrow" indicating trouble in the palace, realizes the gravity of the situation. Zhong Lin carefully removes the arrow and, after ensuring the attendant Xiaolan is a trustworthy member of the Fenglai Pavilion, urgently asks what has transpired in the palace. The next morning, the court is in a state of unease.

Xiao Qianqing addresses the gathered officials, announcing that His Majesty has suddenly fallen ill, is now bedridden, and has been moved to a retreat for recovery. He declares that he will handle all state affairs during this period. One official challenges him, questioning the absence of an imperial edict and requesting an audience with the Empress. Xiao Qianqing explains that the Empress also fell ill from worry and has joined the Emperor at the retreat.

Several ministers, seemingly swayed or coerced, then kneel and ask Xiao Qianqing to govern on His Majesty's behalf. Soon after, an imperial decree is proclaimed, reiterating that His Majesty and the Empress are recuperating, and sealing Linghe Hall, forbidding anyone from leaving without permission. Meanwhile, Du Tingxin receives an update that Xiao Huan, despite being her prisoner, remains defiant, refusing to reveal the Empress's whereabouts or the location of the Imperial Seal.

Frustrated, Du Tingxin's subordinate suggests enlisting the Lingbi Sect, known for their cruel tortures, to force Xiao Huan to write an edict of abdication. Du Tingxin agrees. Later, Xiao Huan is ambushed by a masked assassin from the Lingbi Sect. After the attack, Xiao Huan tells his attendant that Du Tingxin has likely allied with the Lingbi Sect Saintess, whose methods are insidious. In a flashback, Xiao Huan had warned Xiao Qianqing about Du Tingxin's impending palace coup.

He instructed Xiao Qianqing to pretend to cooperate with her to uncover the true mastermind behind her, emphasizing that this "stalling tactic" is essential for the long-term stability of the Great Qi. Back in his chamber, Zhong Lin finds Xiao Qianqing tormented by visions of his deceased sister, Xiao Ying, and haunted by the fear of losing Zhong Lin too. Zhong Lin reassures him she will never leave him, then gently guides him to sleep.

While he rests, she secretly takes his royal seal and stamps a letter, a calculated move which Xiao Qianqing, feigning sleep, perceives. Zhong Lin's letter is delivered to Ling Cangcang, instructing her to investigate the East Hall of the Hot Spring Retreat at noon, where Du Tingxin is scheduled to meet Xiao Qianqing. Zhong Lin proceeds to the Prince of Yuzhang's Manor to meet Du Tingxin, pretending that Xiao Qianqing had sent her in his stead.

Du Tingxin, however, sees through the charade, noting that Zhong Lin must have stolen the seal to arrange the meeting. Zhong Lin admits her concern for Xiao Qianqing, given his secret dealings with Du Tingxin. Du Tingxin tests her loyalty by asking whom she would save if both Xiao Qianqing and Ling Cangcang were in peril. Zhong Lin deflects, asserting her love for Xiao Qianqing and her sisterly bond with Ling Cangcang mean no such choice is necessary.

Du Tingxin then hints that Ling Cangcang's attempt to see Xiao Huan will not succeed. Simultaneously, Ling Cangcang infiltrates the Hot Spring Retreat. Suddenly, Xiao Qianqing bursts in, publicly accusing Zhong Lin of betrayal for stealing his seal and plotting behind his back. Zhong Lin attempts to explain, but Xiao Qianqing, feigning deep hurt, silences her. To protect her from Du Tingxin, he orders his guards to confine Zhong Lin to her room.

Du Tingxin realizes the encounter was a distraction. Xiao Qianqing, fueled by his staged anger, agrees to go to the retreat with Du Tingxin, vowing to make his brother, Xiao Huan, pay dearly for everything. At the retreat where Xiao Huan is imprisoned, Xiao Qianqing confronts Du Tingxin, angered by the sight of Xiao Huan in heavy chains. He demands she remove them. Du Tingxin reminds him of his earlier promise, stating her desire to kill Xiao Huan.

Xiao Qianqing reiterates his resolve for Xiao Huan to suffer betrayal but draws a line at physical humiliation, emphasizing Xiao Huan's royal bloodline and the dignity of the imperial house. Du Tingxin dismisses him as emotional. Xiao Huan then speaks, offering Xiao Qianqing the throne.

He asks if Xiao Qianqing would believe him if he swore he didn't kill Xiao Ying, to which Xiao Qianqing replies, "No." Xiao Huan repeats his offer to cede the throne with one condition: to die with dignity on Phoenix Terrace during the Empress Dowager's funeral. Meanwhile, Ling Cangcang gathers members of the Fenglai Pavilion, including Zhong Lin, who managed to evade her followers.

Ling Cangcang informs them that His Majesty has been moved back to the palace and will attend the funeral. She rallies the Fenglai Pavilion to support His Majesty and reveals she has instructed a man named Shi Yan to lead a coordinated attack within five days, tasking the assembled members with helping him infiltrate the Capital. She looks at the Imperial Seal and ponders whether His Majesty had foreseen these events when he entrusted it to her. The solemn day of the Empress Dowager's funeral arrives, and the court ministers perform the ritualistic kneeling and bowing at the ceremony.

Ling Cangcang, also known as Miss Ling, receives an update that members of Fenglai Pavilion have stealthily gathered in the Capital, poised for action. She instructs some of her forces to head to the Prince of Yuzhang's Manor to assist Zhong Lin, while the remainder are to await further orders. Ling Cangcang herself sets out for Phoenix Terrace. Meanwhile, in the imperial court, Xiao Huan finds solace in the return of Minister Lin.

Minister Lin expresses his understanding, realizing that Xiao Huan's previous decision to exile him, despite his unyielding and upright nature, was a protective measure. Xiao Huan then tasks Mr. Li with the responsibility of identifying capable individuals for Great Qi, emphasizing the critical need to abolish the status verification system for the nation's long-term stability. Mr. Li pledges his unwavering loyalty, promising to protect Xiao Huan even at the cost of his own life.

Standing before his officials, Xiao Huan reveals his lifelong struggle with a cold sickness, acknowledging that it was through their collective support that he has persevered. He thanks them for their steadfast loyalty in building Great Qi's flourishing era. As fireworks ignite the night sky, Xiao Huan gazes at them, his thoughts turning to Ling Cangcang. He silently hopes she will depart without glancing back, knowing the perils that lie ahead for him.

He makes a silent vow that if he survives, he will never allow her to leave him again. Moments later, Xiao Qianqing confronts Xiao Huan, brandishing a blade and demanding that he "die with dignity" before his ministers. Xiao Huan surveys the assembled officials, questioning if this tragic end is truly what they desire, before dramatically leaping from Phoenix Terrace into the swift moat below. Ministers cry out in shock and despair.

Du Tingxin is overcome with grief, struggling to accept Xiao Huan's desperate act. Xiao Qianqing, his mind replaying childhood memories of Xiao Huan and their sister, Ying, is plagued by the thought that Xiao Huan held crucial truths but chose not to reveal them. Ling Cangcang and Zhong Lin are together after the incident. Ling Cangcang immediately inquires about Xiao Huan. Zhong Lin reports that he jumped from Phoenix Terrace into the fast-flowing river.

Despite their searches and those by Xiao Qianqing's men, his body remains unfound. Distraught, Ling Cangcang attempts to go search for him, but Zhong Lin intervenes, warning that Du Tingxin has heavily guarded Phoenix Terrace, making any attempt a certain death. Elsewhere, a Saintess is informed of the Emperor's jump.

Upon learning his body hasn't been recovered, yet no one survives the Qining River, she acknowledges his "backbone" in choosing such a decisive death and expresses regret at not having met him. Xiao Qianqing, in a moment of solitary reflection, recalls a past, mocking exchange with Xiao Huan where he was asked if he liked the "gift" of the throne.

Xiao Qianqing had dismissed it as meaningless, like sincerity without a response, and had then declared his ambition to claim the throne for Great Qi's prosperity. His thoughts then drift to a poignant childhood memory of sharing mandarins with Xiao Huan and Ying, remembering how Ying preferred Xiao Huan's peeled fruit, finding Xiao Qianqing's "ugly." These fragmented memories intertwine with his internal conflict about the Luling Palace fire.

He mentally confronts Xiao Huan, demanding to know the truth of that day and why he abandoned Ying, who loved him so dearly. He questions if this tragic outcome was truly what they desired and what Du Tingxin might have done to Xiao Huan, lamenting that Xiao Huan jumped without revealing the full truth. Later, a guard brings Zhong Lin, the Princess of Ding'an, to Xiao Qianqing as ordered by the Imperial Preceptor.

Zhong Lin immediately demands to know Ling Cangcang's whereabouts. Xiao Qianqing, maintaining a controlled demeanor, assures her that Ling Cangcang is safe and residing in Linghe Hall, as is proper for the Empress of Great Qi. Du Tingxin, in Linghe Hall, confronts Ling Cangcang, acknowledging the long time since their last encounter. Ling Cangcang, recognizing Du Tingxin's malevolent intent, directly asks if she plans to kill her.

Du Tingxin confirms, openly stating her desire to "cut her into pieces" for being responsible for Xiao Huan's current predicament. She asserts that Ling Cangcang's fate curses Xiao Huan, ensuring he "never meets a good end" if she remains by his side. Ling Cangcang vehemently denies Xiao Huan is dead, but Du Tingxin retorts that she personally witnessed him jump and he "will not survive."

Du Tingxin further chastises Ling Cangcang for her perceived inaction when Xiao Huan sacrificed his life-saving medicine and risked his life for peace, questioning why Ling Cangcang is still alive and did not die with him. She then presents Ling Cangcang with a blood-soaked robe, claiming it was found in the Qining River. Du Tingxin cruelly declares that she will not allow Ling Cangcang an easy death, promising to prolong her torment before ultimately sending her to her "demise."

Ling Cangcang defiantly challenges Du Tingxin to kill her immediately, warning that if she fails, she "will make her pay." Du Tingxin scoffs, mocking Ling Cangcang's perceived powerlessness to exact such a price. In the imperial court, ministers discuss Xiao Huan's three-day disappearance and the fruitless search by the Capital Patrol Office along the perilous Qining River. They conclude that Xiao Huan "may not survive" due to the river's treacherous currents.

Some propose that Xiao Qianqing, already serving as regent, should ascend the throne to prevent the nation from being without a ruler. Minister Lin, however, denounces these suggestions as "presumptuous" and "shameful," accusing them of "currying favor" while the Emperor's fate is unknown. He insists that "whether alive or dead, we must find His Majesty." Du Tingxin, in her capacity as Imperial Preceptor, acknowledges the need for a resolution, stating that they cannot "wait forever."

Minister Lin then cites the founding laws of Great Qi, stipulating that if an Emperor's life or death remains unknown, the throne can only pass to another after a full hundred days without any news. The ministers, respecting Minister Lin's scholarly authority, accept this interpretation and propose that Xiao Qianqing serve as Regent during this hundred-day period, ensuring that if Xiao Huan returns, "all will naturally return" to the "rightful order."

Du Tingxin stops Xiao Qianqing, noting his apparent indifference to Xiao Huan's unknown fate. Xiao Qianqing retorts that he has no reason to care for the "murderer who killed his mother and Ying." He disclaims any interest in the throne now, explaining that his only motivation for seeking it was Xiao Huan's profound attachment to it. If Xiao Huan is truly gone, the throne holds no appeal.

His sole desire is for Xiao Huan to survive the Qining River so he can personally "take his life with my own hands." Du Tingxin then advises Xiao Qianqing to prioritize finding Xiao Huan. She brings up Ling Cangcang, mentioning her deep grief and desire to "die with His Majesty," and asks Xiao Qianqing how to proceed with her.

Du Tingxin informs him that, should Xiao Huan's whereabouts remain unknown after the hundred-day period, the Empress "must be buried with him." Xiao Qianqing assents, and Du Tingxin further requests that he personally issue the decree for Ling Cangcang's "burial" when the Emperor's passing is officially "announced to the world." Xiao Qianqing agrees. Later, alone, Xiao Qianqing is consumed by the realization that "It was Xiao Huan."

He feels "fooled" and now believes Xiao Huan is the true culprit behind Ying's death, thinking Xiao Huan chose death over confessing. Vowing revenge, he resolves to "destroy everything he cares about." He then secretly instructs his subordinate to "quietly" investigate all contact between Nanrong Palace and Xuanguang Hall prior to the incident, ensuring no one in the palace discovers their investigation.

Xiao Qianqing confronts Ling Cangcang, initially blocked by a guard who cites the Imperial Preceptor's orders against disturbing the grieving Empress. Xiao Qianqing dismisses the order, declaring he is there to demand repayment for what Ling Cangcang owes him. Upon entering, he confronts a visibly distraught Ling Cangcang, telling her she now understands his profound "pain."

He demands she "give it back to me," wishing for her to experience the "heart ripped out" and "thousand arrows through the chest" anguish he endures. He then informs her that the announcement of Xiao Huan's "passing" is imminent, and as Empress, she "will be buried with him." However, he cruelly declares that before that, he wants her to "eat well and stay alive," desiring her to "live in torment for every single moment."

Xiao Qianqing bitterly observes Ling Cangcang's calm demeanor despite her impending "burial," cynically calling her and Xiao Huan a "lovely couple who would die for each other." He reflects on Xiao Huan's proclamation of "dying with dignity" before he jumped from Phoenix Terrace and merely "disappeared," a fact that infuriates Xiao Qianqing as he wishes to personally kill him.

Ling Cangcang, however, finds a flicker of hope in Xiao Huan's unknown whereabouts, believing that "if he only disappeared, it means there's still hope." Meanwhile, Zhong Lin brings Xiao Qianqing some sweet dessert, explaining that she once loved such sweets because they made life feel "not so bitter." However, she now finds them "too sweet" and unappetizing.

Xiao Qianqing, who is holding her captive, asks if she is eager to leave, to which Zhong Lin responds that she "must go" to "save Cangcang." Upon learning that Ling Cangcang has "started eating again" and "found her will to live," Du Tingxin is incensed, questioning the depth of Ling Cangcang's love for Xiao Huan if she can eat while his fate is uncertain.

Du Tingxin declares that she "won't let you live a day longer" and sends her subordinates to force Ling Cangcang to commit suicide, suggesting she "do it herself" for dignity. Ling Cangcang defiantly refuses. Just as they move to force her, Zhong Lin intervenes and rescues her. Du Tingxin is enraged when she hears of Ling Cangcang's "escape," realizing that Ling Cangcang possesses "influence inside the palace," and admits she "underestimated her."

Ling Cangcang finally finds her father, Ling Xuefeng, who is relieved to see her safe. However, Ling Cangcang immediately confronts him, demanding to know if he was involved in Du Tingxin's actions and if he had any knowledge of the deaths of the Empress Dowager Liu and Princess Ying. Ling Xuefeng attempts to deflect, offering her a hand warmer and expressing concern for her well-being, but Ling Cangcang presses him for answers.

She explains that with Xiao Huan's disappearance and Xiao Qianqing's alliance with Du Tingxin in the coup, she needs to uncover the truth. Ling Xuefeng desperately urges her to "stop digging," advising her to leave the Capital and head north to meet Jueding, where the Northern Garrison Army can guarantee her safety.

Ling Cangcang refuses, asking what will become of Xiao Huan and Great Qi, reiterating her belief that "if he only disappeared, it means there's still hope" for him to return alive, and thus the truth is vital. She pleads with her father to tell her what he knows. Ling Xuefeng, exasperated, calls her "stubborn" and laments that she has ignored his warnings, cautioning her about Du Tingxin, whom he describes as "a mad dog."

Ling Xuefeng warned Ling Cangcang about the challenges ahead, particularly concerning Imperial Preceptor Du Tingxin, whom he described as a truly mad dog. Moments later, a monk arrived to announce that Du Tingxin's people had arrived. Ling Xuefeng then confessed to Ling Cangcang that he did not fully know the truth surrounding the deaths of Princess Ying and the Empress Dowager. Ling Cangcang understood and thanked her father. As Ling Xuefeng fondly recounted childhood memories, Ling Cangcang sensed something amiss.

Before she could react, Ling Xuefeng knocked her unconscious and ordered Zhong Lin and his men to quickly hide his daughter. Du Tingxin's arrival was aggressive and direct. She told Ling Xuefeng to ensure Ling Cangcang remained hidden, warning him not to let her find her. Du Tingxin then demanded Ling Xuefeng write a letter threatening General Ling Jueding to hand over his command tally.

Ling Xuefeng denounced Du Tingxin's scheme as too cruel and believed she desired too much power. Du Tingxin revealed that she had become "mad" from the moment Ling Xuefeng gave her a blood-written letter, questioning why she, a member of the Xiao bloodline, could not sit on the throne when others could. Ling Xuefeng drank the poisoned plum wine offered by Du Tingxin.

He then revealed he had poisoned himself with a toxin hidden in his prayer beads, challenging Du Tingxin to see whose poison would take effect first. He declared that he had prepared this poison for himself long ago and had never submitted to threats in his decades of public service. He wished he could live to see Du Tingxin's ultimate demise, doubting that the people she intended to kill would die so easily.

Ling Xuefeng quickly succumbed to the poison, sacrificing himself to buy time for Ling Cangcang. As Ling Cangcang regained consciousness, she realized something was terribly wrong and desperately tried to go back but was held back by Zhong Lin. She tearfully mourned her father, vowing to avenge him. Afterward, Du Tingxin visited Xiao Ying's former residence, reflecting on past memories and admitting that there was "no going back."

Meanwhile, Zhong Lin suspected Xiao Huan might be dead, as no body had been found after so much time. Ling Cangcang, however, was resolute and instructed Zhong Lin to rally her father’s former subordinates to consolidate power. In the palace, ministers relentlessly pressured Xiao Qianqing to ascend the throne. Zhong Lin was brought to Xiao Qianqing, where she confronted him, accusing him of changing and being a coward who hid from the truth, yielding to the officials' coercion.

She questioned if he truly wanted to become a "traitor and usurper" who "killed his brother for the crown." Xiao Qianqing insisted Xiao Huan was dead and promised not to harm Ling Cangcang, offering to honor her as the "Empress of the Late Emperor" and provide a peaceful life in a separate residence. Zhong Lin expressed profound disappointment, telling him she had misjudged him and that "all ties are cut."

Xiao Qianqing spent his days drinking, having handed over much of his regent authority to Du Tingxin. When Minister of Rites Liu Mingzhuo, Vice Minister of Revenue Liu Cheng, and Director Chen Ling of Personnel all requested to resign due to age or illness, Xiao Qianqing approved their requests without hesitation. Mr. Li (Li Chengtian) publicly criticized Xiao Qianqing for neglecting state affairs and allowing the Imperial Preceptor to wield such power, warning that the realm would be ruined.

Du Tingxin suggested that Mr. Li should retire, and Xiao Qianqing readily agreed. Mr. Li, perceiving the deepening chaos and Du Tingxin's wolfish ambition, sent his family away, resolving to complete one last crucial task for the Great Qi. Du Tingxin, considering Mr. Li a stubborn and unyielding obstacle, decided that even if he was unafraid of death, his death must serve her purpose. She subsequently ordered his killing, which was carried out by the mysterious Ghost King.

Reports from the Lingbi Sect revealed that several of their branches had been destroyed, with rumors of a "Ghost King" emerging, who carried the Moon-Eclipse and had completed the mission of killing Li Chengtian before them. The Ghost King's appearance was deemed a glory to the Lingbi Sect. Seven days prior, Xiao Huan, who was not dead, explained his plan to Hongqing.

He had used the Moon-Eclipse to temporarily suppress the cold poison in his body, a process that would ultimately consume his essence and lead to his death. He viewed the Moon-Eclipse as both medicine and poison, allowing him to heal and enhance his power but with a fatal cost.

Xiao Huan told Hongqing that he had to stage his death and reappear with a new identity as the Ghost King to confront the Saintess, who was using Du Tingxin to destabilize the court. Hongqing remained loyal, believing Xiao Huan would never harm Princess Ying or seek his own demise, deducing that his leap from Phoenix Terrace was a strategic escape.

Xiao Huan acknowledged that he owed everything to Great Qi and its people but regretted the pain he caused Ling Cangcang. He explained that he could not involve her in his dangerous plan, as confronting the Saintess would invite a "mad backlash," and he had to send Ling Cangcang away to safety before he could act decisively.

Back in her residence, Ling Cangcang had a nightmare, then found an umbrella at her door, instantly believing it was left by Xiao Huan, confirming his survival. She secretly began to seek out information about Xiao Huan and discreetly contacted her father's former subordinates. She learned from a villager that the Lingbi Sect was growing stronger and had allied with the court, with its Saintess having returned from the far south.

Ling Cangcang met with one of her father's trusted men. He informed her that Ling Xuefeng had many hidden "chess pieces" (spies) in the palace and the capital, and that Ling Cangcang herself was the key to activating them. He revealed that before Ling Xuefeng’s death at Fayun Temple, he had secretly instructed his loyalists that if he met misfortune, the temple bell would ring as a signal for them to follow Ling Cangcang's command. Ling Cangcang arranged a meeting with these loyalists at Guisi Mausoleum, three days after the mourning period for her father.

Imperial Physician Li confirms that Mr. Li has miraculously survived his ordeal and is out of danger, truly blessed by the heavens. Hongqing informs Xiao Huan of Mr. Li's recovery and the growing renown of the Ghost King in the martial world. Xiao Huan believes that the Lingbi Sect and Nanrong Palace's attempt on Li Chengtian's life is just the beginning. He asserts that instead of waiting for the Lingbi Sect to make a move, they should take the initiative.

Meanwhile, Ling Cangcang convenes with her late father's former subordinates. She expresses her resolve to rectify the chaotic situation caused by the Imperial Preceptor, Du Tingxin, who has taken control of the court. When a subordinate informs her of the Ghost King's emergence, Ling Cangcang, recalling her master's death, speculates that the new Ghost King might be Xiao Huan. Disguised as a maidservant, Ling Cangcang infiltrates a branch of the Lingbi Sect.

She overhears conversations and later sees the Moon-Eclipse Worm, which confirms her suspicion that Xiao Huan is indeed the Ghost King. However, when she tries to locate him, the area is deserted. The Saintess of the Lingbi Sect demonstrates her formidable control over her followers using Heartbane Bugs cultivated from a Heartless Willow. She boasts that if the Ghost King possesses the Moon-Eclipse Worm, he will become her personal possession.

Unbeknownst to her, Xiao Huan's allies are plotting against her, believing that poison cannot truly control a person's heart and that obtaining an antidote would be her undoing. Xiao Huan obtains the leaves of the Heartless Willow, which he believes are crucial for developing an antidote to the Heartbane poison, and entrusts them to Imperial Physician Li. Elsewhere, Du Tingxin, now embracing a more elegant but ruthless persona, relishes the absence of opposition in court.

She orders her subordinates to scour for gold and treasures to fund the Lingbi Sect's expansion, unconcerned about the ensuing public unrest. She declares her intent to systematically destroy everything Xiao Huan cherishes, especially his vision for Great Qi, which involves abolishing the status verification system and easing the tax burden on the common people.

Du Tingxin continues to manipulate Xiao Qianqing, provoking him by reminding him that "the Xiao Qianqing Zhong Lin loved is already dead" and that Zhong Lin has cut all ties with him. She notices his preoccupation with lost love and warns him against interfering in her affairs. Du Tingxin then proposes to turn Zhong Lin into Xiao Qianqing's compliant "personal doll" who would only obey and adore him, highlighting her increasingly ruthless methods.

Enraged but feeling helpless, Xiao Qianqing struggles with his desire to eliminate Du Tingxin. Imperial Physician Li successfully synthesizes the antidote for the Heartbane poison. Xiao Huan distributes it to his secret allies within the Lingbi Sect. One of them, a loyal scout, laments that if he had met Xiao Huan sooner, his friend Dienu, who tragically died choosing freedom over succumbing to the Heartbane poison, might still be alive.

With the antidote in hand, Xiao Huan confirms that all is prepared for the assault on the Sacred Hall, aiming to end the Saintess's reign. During these preparations, Xiao Huan looks at a report detailing the Saintess's habits and preferences, and he expresses concern for Ling Cangcang's whereabouts. Simultaneously, Xiao Qianqing learns that Zhong Lin has been taken by Du Tingxin.

He intercepts Du Tingxin, preventing her from taking Zhong Lin away, and pleads with Zhong Lin to stay in the palace with him, warning her that Du Tingxin is "growing increasingly ruthless." Zhong Lin, however, insists on leaving to investigate the truth behind her mother's death. To ensure her safety, Xiao Qianqing stages a fake assassination attempt on himself, allowing Zhong Lin to escape while secretly dispatching his scouts to protect her.

He also learns that Preceptor Du has left the palace. News of Zhong Lin's escape reaches Du Tingxin. She then meets the Lingbi Sect Saintess and questions the Saintess's unwavering support, asking if it is solely because she is the daughter of her savior.

The Saintess, holding a significant hairpin, explains that although she has lost most of her memories, she vividly recalls Du Tingxin's mother, Sui, a "spiritually gifted sacred maiden" from the royal family who was her closest friend. The Saintess reveals that she believes she "went berserk" while practicing the divine art of Lingbi, resulting in her memory loss and the feeling of having lost something profound.

She also confesses to having recurring dreams of a child but cannot recall his identity. Meanwhile, Ling Cangcang finds herself in danger from Du Tingxin's scouts but is rescued by Hongqing. She demands to be taken to Xiao Huan immediately, but Hongqing refuses. Xiao Huan, now openly acting as the Ghost King, storms the Lingbi Sacred Hall. The Saintess is visibly shaken by his appearance, experiencing a sudden headache.

Believing her Heartbane poison still holds sway, she attempts to use the Heartbane Bell to control her followers, but to her shock, her control fails. She realizes that Xiao Huan has provided an antidote, freeing her followers from her influence. Witnessing the Saintess's cruelty towards her former followers, Xiao Huan attacks her. As he prepares to deliver a fatal blow, he notices a distinctive tattoo on her wrist—a tattoo identical to one his mother had.

This sight triggers a deep memory of his mother giving him bitter medicine for a "cold-related ailment" in his childhood. The Saintess, in turn, experiences fragmented memories of taking a "fake-death decoction" to save a child and secretly escape the palace. Instead of revealing these profound truths, she defiantly provokes Xiao Huan, daring him to kill her and warning him cryptically that on the full moon, "the Ghost King returns to his tomb."

The Saintess confronted Xiao Huan, daring him to kill her if he wished to lead the Lingbi Sect and prevent the Ghost King's return. Xiao Huan, recognizing the tattoo on her arm that matched his own mother's, found himself unable to strike her down. Instead, he ordered his guards to imprison her under strict watch. Meanwhile, Xiao Qianqing was preoccupied when Zhong Lin arrived with crucial information.

She presented a written confession from Aunt Chan, which revealed that Du Tingxin, not the Emperor, was responsible for Princess Ying's death. This prompted Xiao Qianqing to recall that all the palace maids from his mother's residence had mysteriously vanished after her funeral. Zhong Lin explained that she had investigated and found that all those maids had died mysteriously after leaving the palace, with only Aunt Chan disappearing without a trace, later succumbing to poison herself.

Zhong Lin discovered Aunt Chan's letter on her body, which became the final piece of evidence, but with no living witnesses. Xiao Qianqing then found a eulogy written by his mother, the Empress Dowager, for Princess Ying. The date on the eulogy was the day before Princess Ying died, leading him to a shocking realization: his mother knew of Princess Ying's impending death and was somehow involved.

He reluctantly concluded that only the current Imperial Preceptor, Du Tingxin, could have influenced his mother in such a way. Just as this thought crossed his mind, Du Tingxin appeared. She openly admitted to instigating Princess Ying's death, stating that she used Seven-Star Powder to ensure Princess Ying's swift demise. She cruelly claimed that Xiao Qianqing's mother, the Empress Dowager, was driven by ambition to see him on the throne, which is why she conspired in Princess Ying's murder.

Xiao Qianqing was furious, refusing to believe his mother, who he thought hated the Emperor, would commit such an act. Du Tingxin further revealed that she had initially planned a fake death for the Empress Dowager but deliberately withheld the antidote, letting her die as punishment for her "stupidity" and insatiable desire for power. She reveled in how she had manipulated them all, savoring the "delicious" feeling of control. Enraged, Xiao Qianqing struck her and vowed to kill her.

Du Tingxin, unfazed, rang a bell, summoning guards who were all under her control due to a Heartbane poison. Even Zhong Lin was afflicted. Xiao Qianqing tried to assert his authority as a royal prince, but the guards ignored him, leaving him helpless. Du Tingxin mocked his claim of being the Xiao dynasty's only heir, declaring that she, too, carried the Xiao bloodline and was fully entitled to the throne.

She announced her plan to hold a Heaven-worship ceremony in three days to usher in a new era. She then revealed that Xiao Qianqing was bound by her "Prison of Thousand Threads," a control mechanism that would soon turn him into an emotionless puppet. She also pointed out that Xiao Huan was similarly controlled by the Moon-Eclipse, a poison developed by the Saintess.

She ominously stated that after the ceremony, Zhong Lin would be returned, but whether she would still want a heartless puppet for a partner remained to be seen. Meanwhile, the Saintess confronted Xiao Huan about the Moon-Eclipse afflicting him. She claimed only she could undo it, but Xiao Huan revealed his knowledge: the Moon-Eclipse, a king of poisons, was fed on the lifeblood of Saintesses, and its cure required a life for a life.

He told her he knew she had regained her memories but had refused to acknowledge him because she was prepared to sacrifice herself to cure him. He vehemently refused her sacrifice, preferring to live with the torment of the Moon-Eclipse than to lose her again.

The Saintess, tearfully, confessed her past: how she fell in love with his father, the Emperor, twenty years ago in the Central Plains, how she was framed while pregnant, and how Xiao Huan was born with a cold illness. She recounted how the Lingbi Sect's secret arts had made her forget everything, expressing deep regret for her inability to protect him. Xiao Huan insisted he was doing well, but she knew he must have suffered greatly in the palace.

He then requested to handle Du Tingxin's rebellion himself. Seeing his unwavering resolve, the Saintess reluctantly gave him a potent elixir, refined from Ice Lotus, which possessed the power to bring him back from the brink of death. As the Heaven-worship ceremony approached, Du Tingxin, impatient, decided to escalate her plans.

She ordered Zhong Lin, accused of colluding with the Lingbi Sect, to be publicly displayed on the city gate to lure Ling Cangcang, knowing she would come to her friend's aid. Ling Cangcang, fully aware it was a trap, nevertheless went to rescue Zhong Lin. Xiao Qianqing, despite his own predicament, secretly assisted in the rescue. Ling Cangcang successfully freed Zhong Lin and revealed to her that Xiao Huan was still alive.

Seizing the chaos, Ling Cangcang also orchestrated a raid on the Lingbi Sect's secret treasury, robbing their funds and grain. Zhong Lin found Xiao Qianqing, who, suffering from the Prison of Thousand Threads, expressed fear of harming her and urged her to flee to safety, granting her freedom. However, he had one last request for her: to help him once more.

Xiao Qianqing then met with Xiao Huan, conveying his remorse and his intent to kill Du Tingxin, even if it meant sacrificing his own life due to the poison within him. Xiao Huan urged him to trust him and not act rashly, promising to handle Du Tingxin himself and not to let Xiao Qianqing risk his life again.

Xiao Qianqing, reflecting on his complicated relationship with his brother, expressed a wish to be his brother again in the next life, but this time, he hoped to be the elder, protecting Xiao Huan. Meanwhile, Du Tingxin's forces tracked Ling Cangcang to a secret tunnel. Du Tingxin exulted in capturing the Empress, gloating over her fallen state.

She announced a cruel seven-day torture: Ling Cangcang would be nailed up and subjected to burning incense daily, culminating in an "ice spike" on the seventh day. This spike, if it hit her heart, would leave her in a state of living death, a walking corpse, so she could witness Du Tingxin's moment of glory. Despite the pain, Ling Cangcang remained defiant, refusing to submit.

At the same time, Xiao Huan addressed the assembled members of the Lingbi Sect, declaring himself the Emperor of Great Qi. He announced a lenient punishment for their past wrongs: five years of labor. He also declared the dissolution of the Lingbi Sect, instructing everyone to abandon their old ways, uphold justice, and sever all ties with Nanrong Palace. Soon after, news of Xiao Huan's survival reached Du Tingxin through a traitor from the now-disbanded Lingbi Sect, igniting her fury.

Upon learning that the Lingbi Sect had been destroyed, Du Tingxin acknowledged the Ghost King's power. However, an agent then revealed that the Ghost King was in fact Xiao Huan, leaving Du Tingxin torn between love and resentment, bordering on madness. She confronted Xiao Qianqing, accusing him of protecting Xiao Huan despite being poisoned himself, calling him a "useless fool" for his perceived delay.

In her fervor, Du Tingxin commanded her dragon robe to be brought forth, proclaiming her intention to become the first Empress of Great Qi and declaring that her ascension ceremony would mark the death of all who opposed her. She coerced the Prince of Yuzhang to draft an imperial edict, denouncing the Xiao clan and declaring herself the chosen one with the support of the people.

She then announced that the upcoming Heaven-worship ceremony would serve as her ascension ceremony, where she would rule the nation. Du Tingxin sinisterly anticipated Xiao Huan's arrival at the ceremony, looking forward to his demise and that of his empress, Ling Cangcang, who she believed should "die with him." While Du Tingxin reveled in her plans, news of turmoil in the palace reached Xiao Huan.

Du Tingxin, still holding Ling Cangcang captive, taunted her with the revelation that Xiao Huan was not dead but had become the Ghost King. Ling Cangcang, however, calmly informed Du Tingxin that she was the last to learn this news, much to Du Tingxin's fury. Ling Cangcang asserted that Xiao Huan would personally reclaim his throne and Great Qi.

Du Tingxin, infuriated, swore that Xiao Huan's death would occur at the upcoming ceremony and threatened to send Ling Cangcang to join him in death. She then instructed her guards to keep a close watch on the empress. Meanwhile, Xiao Huan's forces gathered, with General Ling's elite troops arriving in batches and Southern Chu's army ready outside the capital.

With the Imperial Guards' deployment map in hand and knowing Du Tingxin intended to ascend the throne using a coerced imperial edict, Xiao Huan declared it was time to put an end to the conflict. One of Xiao Huan's subordinates secretly delivered an antidote to Ling Cangcang, saving her from Du Tingxin's incapacitation. As she recovered, Ling Cangcang found a letter from Xiao Huan, expressing his deep love and his willingness to face death without regret for their bond.

Despite her attendant's plea to escape through a back door, Ling Cangcang resolved to stay and confront the challenges alongside Xiao Huan. At the ascension ceremony, Du Tingxin, adorned in her dragon robe, presided over the court. She forced the Prince of Yuzhang to read an imperial edict condemning the Xiao dynasty and proclaiming her divine right to rule.

However, the Prince of Yuzhang defiantly interjected, questioning to whom Great Qi truly belonged and denouncing those who would steal the state. Du Tingxin, though amused by his "obedience," promised to personally deliver the answer to him. As a minister urged the ceremony to continue, an arrow suddenly flew in, signaling Xiao Huan's arrival. Xiao Huan appeared, interrupting Du Tingxin's coronation by shooting an arrow.

He announced that his followers were no longer under her control and rallied them to "purge the court of treacherous ministers" and "slay the demoness." Du Tingxin, undeterred, revealed her control over Xiao Qianqing with a bell and commanded him to kill Xiao Huan, intending for the brothers to destroy each other. Unexpectedly, Xiao Qianqing broke free from her control, struggling against the bell's influence.

Zhong Lin, who had disguised herself, intervened, revealing that she had used her own toxic blood as a counter-poison to suppress the "Prison of Thousand Threads" in Xiao Qianqing, binding their lives together. The intense pain from the Heartbane bell had helped him regain his senses. Xiao Huan instructed Shi Yan and Hongqing to protect their allies.

Du Tingxin, enraged by the failure of her plan and disgusted by their self-sacrificing nature, initiated a grand formation, releasing countless Heartbane insects forged from blood, aiming to poison and control everyone present. Xiao Huan confronted her, but Du Tingxin, now completely unhinged, confessed that she had gone mad the moment she discovered her royal lineage and her sibling relationship with Xiao Huan.

She declared that since there was "no place for me in the world anyway," she might as well "go all out and lose my mind completely." As the Heartbane insects swarmed, Xiao Huan, in a desperate act of self-sacrifice, cut his own wrist, allowing the venomous bugs to consume his blood. He knew the Moon-Eclipse within him, the king of all poisons, could counteract the Heartbane, preventing a widespread tragedy.

Ling Cangcang arrived just as the Moon-Eclipse's toxicity began to take hold of Xiao Huan, causing him immense suffering. In his final moments of lucidity, he urged her to kill him, but she refused. Even Du Tingxin was momentarily saddened to witness Xiao Huan's selflessness for the sake of his people. Xiao Qianqing and Zhong Lin also watched in sorrow as Xiao Huan collapsed, and Ling Cangcang cried out in despair.

Xiao Huan's last thoughts were of his love for Ling Cangcang, recalling his promises to protect her and declare her his only empress. Ling Cangcang desperately tried to awaken him, but he succumbed to the Moon-Eclipse's torment. Du Tingxin was then imprisoned in Nanrong Palace for her heinous crimes, condemned to remain there until her death. The Saintess visited her, revealing the tragic truth of Du Tingxin's birth.

She recounted how the late Emperor, despite his public persona, had forcibly taken her beloved friend, Sui. Sui, Du Tingxin's mother, bore her daughter but concealed her identity to protect the Saintess. Sui then tricked the Saintess into leaving the palace and subsequently took her own life, only for the late Emperor to falsely accuse her of adultery. Hearing her mother's complete story, Du Tingxin wept, consumed by regret and a desire to see her mother.

The Saintess urged Du Tingxin to abandon her destructive path, asking how she was any different from those who had harmed her mother. Du Tingxin, still holding some affection for Xiao Huan despite her madness, tearfully asked if he was truly dead, before acknowledging her fault and expressing a wish to join her mother. Five years passed. Xiao Qianqing, who had suffered from poisoning that left him disoriented and with limited mobility, gradually recovered.

Zhong Lin, who had lost her hearing, also healed with careful treatment, though she remained visually impaired, needing Xiao Qianqing's assistance. They continued to support each other. Ling Cangcang, having given birth to Xiao Huan's son, Ning, visited Xiao Huan's grave. She reflected on the peace and tranquility of Great Qi under their child's future care, assuring Xiao Huan that he could rest easy.

Years later, Ling Cangcang, now the Empress Dowager, succumbed to the lingering effects of old wounds from a previous nail punishment. On her deathbed, she spoke to her grown son, Ning, making him promise to safeguard the empire. Eventually, Zhong Lin also passed away, leaving Xiao Qianqing to support Ning as he assumed his responsibilities. Ning, in turn, found strength in the belief that his father, mother, and Aunt Lin were all watching over them from above, their shared legacy enduring.