Love in the Clouds Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Love in the Clouds Synopsis
A cold and ruthless female war god, poisoned, seeks an antidote. She transforms into a delicate dancing girl to set a love trap for the wanton and dissolute poisoner Ji Bozai, in order to obtain the antidote.
However, the other party also conceals their true self, pretending to fall into the trap.
The two engage in a game of wit and deceit, push and pull in love, only to unexpectedly discover a shocking secret about the fairyland."
Love in the Clouds Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Ming Xian, the Crown Prince of Yaoguang Mountain, had assumed a male disguise through magic since she was thirteen to compete in the Qingyun Tournament. For seven years, she led Yaoguang Mountain to victory without a single defeat. To the world, she was a valiant Warrior God of Hexu, but Ming Xian herself knew the immense pressure that burdened her, for she was always compelled to win.
Her mission was to secure the Blessed Rain for her realm, and she had been taught since childhood that she could only, and must, win. However, in the eighth annual Qingyun Tournament, Ming Xian faced Ji Bozai, a warrior from Jixing Abyss. Ji Bozai calmly drew her into his Spirit Well, a forbidden space where her spiritual power was instantly sealed, preventing her from even maintaining her armor.
Stripped of her magic, the once invincible Warrior God was forced to fight with only basic martial arts. Despite her weakened state, Ming Xian defiantly declared she could still defeat him. Yet, Ji Bozai, a former Sunken Abyss prisoner who had seemingly gained spiritual veins, was too formidable. He commented on her impressive blood magic, but asserted that everyone could lose, even her. Ming Xian was ultimately defeated, suffering severe injuries.
The crowd erupted in shock as Ji Bozai was elevated to a higher realm, bringing the coveted Blessed Rain to Jixing Abyss. Ming Xian, in contrast, was met with public scorn and blame, with people lamenting the loss of the Blessed Rain and its grave implications for Yaoguang Mountain. In that moment, Ming Xian realized that her seven years of victories meant nothing; in the eyes of the world, only the winner mattered, and she felt like a complete failure.
Upon returning to the Chamber of Ease, Ming Xian discovered her spiritual veins were broken. She confided in her companion beast, Twenty-Seven, suspecting Ji Bozai had poisoned her during the match. Her mother, Empress Jing Shu, heartbroken but resolute, ordered Ming Xian to immediately leave Yaoguang Mountain.
She instructed Ming Xian to shed her male disguise, abandon the Veil of Illusion, and live anonymously in her true form, emphasizing that staying would only lead to her death at the hands of those who coveted her position. Ming Xian, understanding her mother's profound sacrifice, tearfully vowed to restore her spiritual veins and return to the pinnacle of Qingyun one day.
Ming Xian later sought out her master, who revealed that the poison in her was called Heavenly Grief, and the mark on her spiritual veins was the Grief Blossom. This seven-petaled flower would lead to the annihilation of her primordial spirit if all its petals withered. Her master explained that Heavenly Grief destroyed spiritual veins in those who possessed them, while it could grant them to those who did not.
She was warned not to use her spiritual veins to avoid accelerating the poison's spread. To survive, Ming Xian had to find the antidote, Golden Millet Dream, within a year to repair her spiritual veins. Her master suggested that since Ji Bozai was responsible for the poison, he likely possessed the antidote, instructing Ming Xian to go to Jixing Abyss to find him, and promised to follow once she dealt with her pursuers.
Two months passed as Ming Xian covertly observed Ji Bozai, who seemed to spend his nights in lavish entertainment at Moonlit Blossoms. She noted his cautious nature, refusing food and drink from others due to his own distrust, surmising that a dark heart sees darkness everywhere. An opportunity arose when Princess Tianji hosted a celebratory banquet for Ji Bozai at the Moonlit Blossoms pleasure house. Ming Xian, now disguised as a fairy attendant named Ming Yi, infiltrated the event.
At the banquet, Ming Yi subtly provoked Sun Liao, a Jixing Abyss warrior, by feigning innocence about rumors regarding his performance in the Qingyun Tournament, skillfully implying Ji Bozai was the source. Sun Liao, angered by the perceived slight, confronted Ji Bozai, but was quickly and easily subdued. Witnessing Ji Bozai's indifference, Ming Yi attempted a different tactic, pretending to stumble to draw his sympathy. However, Ji Bozai remained unmoved, proving difficult to approach.
Just then, Lord Hanfeng (Mu Qibai), the Emperor of Jixing Abyss's younger brother, arrived with two maids under the guise of offering congratulatory gifts, intending to plant spies in Ji Bozai's household. Ji Bozai, aware of the true motive, was hesitant to accept them as it would offend Princess Tianji, who had organized the banquet. Seizing the moment, Ming Yi intervened, boldly claiming Ji Bozai had promised to take "her" back to his residence, Wugui Sea.
Ji Bozai playfully denied remembering such a promise, but Lord Hanfeng, trying to force his hand, suggested Ji Bozai take all three women. To avoid taking Lord Hanfeng's spies, Ji Bozai proposed a test: he would ask a question, and only the one who answered to his satisfaction would accompany him. Ji Bozai then asked what spirit beasts were kept in the Wugui Sea and how they should be cared for.
After the other two maids gave uninspired or overly devoted answers, Ming Yi confidently stated that Wugui Sea was stagnant and housed no spirit beasts, earning her criticism from the crowd for her perceived ignorance. However, Ji Bozai chose Ming Yi, stating that as a former prisoner, he valued true devotion above all else, and her "deep feelings" for him. Ming Yi, though still wary of his intentions, saw this as a step closer to her goal.
That night, Ji Bozai deliberately carried Ming Yi into his room at Wugui Sea, ensuring the act was observed by a spygrass in the mansion, which promptly reported to Lord Hanfeng. Inside, Ji Bozai revealed he knew Ming Yi had orchestrated the night's events, including her staged flirtation with Sun Liao, to gain entry to Wugui Sea. Ming Yi, feigning hurt and adoration, questioned his coldness, affirming her supposed admiration for him as a legendary figure.
When he pressed her about her background, Ming Yi, internally realizing she needed to divert him, tearfully claimed to be an orphan from a herb-gathering family who ended up at Moonlit Blossoms. After Ji Bozai removed her blindfold, he remarked that he disliked overly forward women, then calmly began to undress himself, leaving Ming Yi internally flustered and wondering why Twenty-Seven hadn't yet created a diversion. Suddenly, a fire erupted in the back pavilion of the mansion.
Before leaving to investigate, Ji Bozai conjured a powerful barrier, forbidding Ming Yi from exiting the room to ensure her safety, promising to return. Once he was gone, Ming Yi, despite her weakened spiritual veins, forcibly broke the complex barrier. With Twenty-Seven, she began a frantic search for the Golden Millet Dream within Wugui Sea, only to find nothing after an entire night of searching.
Twenty-Seven confessed that his attempt to create a small fire had unexpectedly escalated into a large blaze, despite his intentions. As dawn approached, Ji Bozai returned to his room, accompanied by Granny Xun, the steward of Wugui Sea. He discovered the broken barrier and Ming Yi's absence, while Granny Xun confirmed that Ming Yi was not in the room.
Ji Bozai, dismissing the fire as a natural occurrence and needing no external investigation, secretly mused about women being too aggressive, knowing he had to continue playing along for a while.
Episode 2 Recap
Upon Ji Bozai's return to his residence, he discovered the protective barrier breached, a killing intent flashing in his eyes. However, he found Ming Yi calmly making scallion pancakes in the kitchen. To cover up her earlier search for the Golden Millet Dream, she feigned concern and offered him her freshly made pancakes, claiming they were delicious.
Ming Yi further explained that Fuyue, the owner of Moonlit Blossoms, had taught her that a woman must be diligent and virtuous to win a man's heart, which is why she sought out the kitchen to prepare breakfast for him. Ji Bozai asked why she hadn't come to find him, to which Ming Yi replied that he had restricted her movements for her safety, so she felt compelled to do something for him.
She then flirtatiously asked if he had missed her, and he confirmed that he did. Ji Bozai then tried to get intimate, but Ming Yi resisted, claiming it wasn't an auspicious day and such acts would harm his spiritual cultivation, urging him to take care of his body as he possessed great spiritual roots. Annoyed by her "boring" nature and lack of enthusiasm, Ji Bozai accused her of being a spoilsport despite her supposed sincerity.
He then ordered Granny Xun to send Ming Yi back to Moonlit Blossoms, stating that he would not keep such a dull fairy. Ming Yi desperately pleaded with Ji Bozai and Granny Xun, claiming that Fuyue would torture her for being useless if she returned. She recounted a sob story about her poor, orphaned background, begging for a place to stay and promising to do anything to repay his kindness, even serve as a servant.
However, Ji Bozai remained unmoved, finding her story as ordinary and boring as her. As she was being led away, Ming Yi secretly instructed Twenty-Seven to spread the news that Ji Bozai had expelled her from his residence.
Meanwhile, in the Huansha Market, rumors quickly spread that Ji Bozai had sent Ming Yi back to Moonlit Blossoms because he was already bored of her after just one day, and that Fuyue was now punishing her by making her endlessly scrub floors. Immortal Yan Xiao and Meng Yangqiu overheard the news. Yan Xiao immediately reported this to Mu Qibai, Lord Hanfeng.
Mu Qibai seized the opportunity, stating that since the fairy was sent back, it was a good time to send in more people. He reasoned that if his people could enter Wugui Sea, it would signal to outsiders that the alliance between Ji Bozai and his niece, Princess Tianji, was not as strong as it appeared. He then ordered Yan Xiao to dispatch secret agents to Wugui Sea.
Concurrently, Buxiu reported to Ji Bozai that Ming Yi had returned to Moonlit Blossoms and was being punished by Fuyue. Ji Bozai seemed indifferent, dismissing the matter of the broken barrier by saying there were many suspects in Wugui Sea and sending Ming Yi away was a good excuse. His immediate priority was to obtain Moonshade Grass, which was among the tributes from Mangfu Swamp after their defeat by Zhushui Spiritual State in the Qingyun Tournament.
He ordered Buxiu to retrieve it the next day, warning him to be cautious of Zhushui Spiritual State's sinister techniques. Just then, Yan Xiao arrived at Wugui Sea with two female attendants on Mu Qibai's orders. Ji Bozai, to avoid further scrutiny, fabricated a story that Ming Yi had merely had an argument with him that morning and had run away in a fit of pique. He pretended to be worried about her, claiming he was anxious to find her.
At Yaoguang Mountain, Madam Meng saw Ming Xian's defeat as an opportunity. Driven by ambition, she conspired with her son, Ming Xin, to secure the crown prince position for him. Ming Xin, equally ambitious, had already sent people to hunt down and kill Ming Xian, believing that only with Ming Xian's death could he take his place. Back at Moonlit Blossoms, Fuyue was scolding Ming Yi for being useless and almost ruining Moonlit Blossoms' reputation.
Dance courtesan Zhang Tai intervened, protecting Ming Yi from further punishment. However, Ming Yi's true identity was almost exposed when the Search Mirror, used by Ming Xin's agents searching for Ming Xian, reacted to her presence. The agents chased Ming Yi through Moonlit Blossoms, surprised that the mirror led them to someone in such a place, but determined to follow its guidance. At this critical moment, Ji Bozai appeared. He declared Ming Yi was his and confronted the pursuers.
He questioned their audacity to chase someone in his territory with a "silly mirror," especially after Yaoguang Mountain's defeat in the Qingyun Tournament, and ordered them to leave. Intimidated by Ji Bozai's authority, the pursuers retreated, concluding that the mirror must be faulty as a fairy from Moonlit Blossoms couldn't possibly be Ming Xian. Ji Bozai then took Ming Yi back to Wugui Sea.
There, he and Ming Yi skillfully worked together to expel the maids Mu Qibai had attempted to plant in his residence. Yan Xiao tried to persuade Granny Xun to accept the maids, invoking Ji Bozai's past kindness to her, but Granny Xun staunchly refused, stating her unwavering loyalty to Ji Bozai. Ming Yi then dramatically declared herself the true lady of Wugui Sea, threatening to destroy her primordial spirit if the new maids were allowed to stay.
Ji Bozai, playing along, lamented how his "possessive fairy" was making his life difficult, convincing Yan Xiao to take the maids and leave. Despite this display, Ji Bozai's suspicion of Ming Yi remained. He repeatedly questioned her origins and even attempted to verify her identity using a spell, but could not discern any magical disguise.
When he pressed her about her connection to the Search Mirror, Ming Yi feigned ignorance, suggesting the mirror might have reacted to the tributes Ji Bozai had given to other fairies. She was visibly flustered, her breathing erratic, which Ji Bozai noted. Ming Yi then pretended to be deeply wronged and made to leave, subtly clutching a hidden purse at her waist.
Just as planned, Ji Bozai pulled her back, and her purse spilled open, revealing a collection of stolen trinkets. Ming Yi, feigning destitution, confessed that her family in Freezing Hot Waters was poor and survived by gathering herbs, and her friends struggled for food, which drove her to steal. This carefully orchestrated act of vulnerability and greed temporarily eased Ji Bozai's suspicions.
He allowed her to stay, declaring her the lady of Wugui Sea to everyone in the mansion and assuring her that she could have any wealth she desired simply by asking. He even assigned her a personal room. Ming Yi later confided in Twenty-Seven that pretending to be greedy was a calculated move to deflect Ji Bozai's suspicions and that she needed to be well-prepared, emphasizing his cautious nature.
Ji Bozai, still harboring doubts, ordered Buxiu to first go to Freezing Hot Waters to thoroughly investigate Ming Yi's background before heading to Zhushui Spiritual State. He explained that he was keeping her temporarily as a "shield" against Mu Qibai's attempts to infiltrate his household. He added that if she truly was from a herb-gathering family from Freezing Hot Waters, she could be useful to his plans. The next morning, Yan Xiao and Meng Yangqiu met with Mu Qibai.
They informed him that Ji Bozai was using Ming Yi as a shield to refuse any new people he tried to send. After much discussion, Mu Qibai resolved to personally visit Wugui Sea to uncover the truth. Meanwhile, Ming Yi, in her room, analyzed the political landscape of Jixing Abyss with Twenty-Seven. The current Emperor was gravely ill and often comatose, with only his daughter, Princess Tianji, as his heir, who could not ascend the throne.
Mu Qibai, as the Emperor's younger brother, was the widely expected successor. However, Princess Tianji had discovered the exceptionally talented Ji Bozai, who had elevated Jixing Abyss from repeated defeats to an upper realm power. With Tianji expressing interest in a marriage alliance with Ji Bozai, he had become a significant threat to Mu Qibai. Ming Yi concluded that her presence in Wugui Sea served as Ji Bozai's perfect shield.
Twenty-Seven speculated that the Golden Millet Dream might be hidden on Ji Bozai's person. Ming Yi, after a moment of thought, conceived a plan. She spent the night studying the Spiritual Cultivation Treasure Manual, believing it would help her uncover Ji Bozai's secrets. That same night, Ji Bozai discreetly left his residence and met with a mysterious servant named Ruo Shui at Moonlit Blossoms. In their hushed conversation, the word "revenge" was repeatedly mentioned.
Ruo Shui pledged to repay Ji Bozai for saving her life and promised to follow his plan to make her cruel father pay. Ji Bozai confirmed his intention to kill the man regardless of her involvement, asserting that those who committed crimes should not have a good end. He also mentioned that Moonlit Blossoms felt like a second home to him, full of memories.
Later that night, Ming Yi, dressed in a translucent gown, snuck into Ji Bozai's sleeping quarters, intending to seduce him and search for the Golden Millet Dream. However, she overheard Mu Qibai's unexpected late-night visit and quickly hid. Mu Qibai entered Ji Bozai's room, remarking on how open and spacious it was compared to the cramped abyss. He again subtly attempted to offer more servants, which Ji Bozai deflected by feigning fear of his "possessive fairy."
As Ji Bozai and Mu Qibai drank wine together, Mu Qibai casually shifted the conversation, mentioning a long-standing rumor in Jixing Palace: that Ji Bozai's spiritual veins were obtained through Heavenly Grief. He then pointedly questioned how Ji Bozai could have survived using Heavenly Grief, unless he possessed the Golden Millet Dream. At these words, Ji Bozai's eyes turned chillingly cold.
Episode 3 Recap
Facing Mu Qibai's aggressive questioning, Ji Bozai wore a sorrowful expression, confessing that he was not born with spiritual veins but acquired them later through a stroke of luck. Becoming emotional, he spoke tearfully of the bullying he suffered in his youth, explaining how misfortune turned into a blessing, ultimately granting him spiritual veins. Mu Qibai, knowing this to be an absurd fabrication, was annoyed by Ji Bozai's refusal to share the Golden Millet Dream.
Just as he was about to press further, he noticed Ming Yi eavesdropping. Ming Yi, realizing her presence was exposed, quickly entered the room, feigning charm as she leaned against the embroidered couch. Mu Qibai, already suspicious of Ming Yi's identity, glanced at the Dual Cultivation Manual lying open on the bed and awkwardly withdrew.
After Mu Qibai left, Ji Bozai pretended to be affectionate, secretly channeling spiritual energy through his fingers to probe the veracity of Ming Yi's spiritual veins. Ming Yi understood his intent, deftly turning the tables to search for the Golden Millet Dream, but ultimately found nothing. She realized Ji Bozai was checking for Soul-hiding Nails, a mark implanted at birth in fairies with spiritual veins in the Six Realms to seal them.
After Buxiu retrieved the Moonshade Grass for Ji Bozai, he personally visited the Sunken Abyss to meet Hou Zhao, the former chief of the Judgement Hall. Ji Bozai was well aware that Hou Zhao's daughter, Ruo Shui, suffered from congenital Total Deterioration, a condition only this rare grass could cure. To save his beloved daughter, Hou Zhao agreed to surrender all his memories. Ji Bozai, upholding his promise, immediately ordered Buxiu to deliver the Moonshade Grass to Ruo Shui.
Additionally, Buxiu reported that his investigation confirmed Ming Yi was indeed the youngest daughter of a herb-gathering attendant family from Freezing Hot Waters. Her parents had both died from Blood Pearl Bloom poisoning, after which she was left alone to make a living in the divine capital. Ji Bozai noted that only Hou Zhao had used the word "cultivated" when asking about the Golden Millet Dream, a detail that resonated deeply with him.
Ming Yi found a worm capable of tracking the Golden Millet Dream and instructed Twenty-Seven to tame it for her use. Twenty-Seven successfully severed the worm's connection to its original master, making it obedient only to Ming Yi. Meanwhile, Ming Xin, infuriated by his subordinates' repeated failures and Ji Bozai's interference, grew even more hateful. Soon after, Granny Xun conveyed Ji Bozai's order for Ming Yi to prepare for the upcoming Qingyun Tournament, for which Shouhua Academy was selecting warriors.
Ji Bozai required Ming Yi to accompany him, necessitating her to first learn the etiquette of the divine capital. Twenty-Seven subtly observed Ji Bozai's unusual behavior, suspecting he was setting a trap to test Ming Yi. However, Ming Yi remained calm, deciding to go along with his plans, confident that with the worm released, finding the Golden Millet Dream was only a matter of time. During this period, Ji Bozai repeatedly attempted to enter meditation to examine Hou Zhao's memories.
Each time he was about to delve into the sea of consciousness, he was interrupted by Ming Yi's seemingly unintentional movements outside his door, forcing him to abandon his attempts. When Granny Xun was tasked with teaching Ming Yi etiquette, her words were laced with veiled challenges, probing Ming Yi step by step.
Ming Yi, at times with tears in her eyes, at others with soft, coy words, managed to evoke sympathy from Ji Bozai, who found himself unable to harshly criticize her. Even Granny Xun's stern gaze gradually softened. Despite her complete ignorance of the Blessing Cake recipe, Ming Yi diligently studied it all night, her fingers stained with red powder, and finally presented a box of respectable-looking pastries.
Granny Xun was won over by the delicious taste of the Blessing Cakes and perceived Ming Yi's apparent genuine affection for Ji Bozai. Consequently, her attitude softened. She slowly recounted her own difficult romantic life and how Ji Bozai had rescued her, prompting her to vow eternal loyalty to him. Ming Yi, enlightened, patiently comforted Granny Xun and offered her more Blessing Cakes, which Granny Xun finally accepted.
After being repeatedly disturbed by Ming Yi's "unintentional" interruptions, Ji Bozai finally found a moment of peace to fully immerse himself in Hou Zhao's memories. Within them, he witnessed the tragic truth of his Master Bo Yulan's murder. Hou Zhao, then an aide to Mu Qibai, had imprisoned Bo Yulan in a dark dungeon, torturing her in various ways to force her to reveal the Golden Millet Dream formula.
However, Bo Yulan remained defiant, enduring the brutal torment without uttering a word. Suddenly, a man in black robes appeared, wielding a soul-seizing artifact. A surge of malevolent energy enveloped Bo Yulan, cruelly tearing her soul from her body and causing her to perish in endless agony. Witnessing his revered Master's horrifying demise, Ji Bozai was overwhelmed with grief and fury. He swore an oath to personally eliminate the three murderers to honor his Master's spirit.
Meanwhile, Ming Yi sensed an unusual disturbance outside her room and rushed out. She found the courtyard strewn with withered branches and fallen leaves, a desolate and somber scene, as if a deadly aura was secretly brewing.
Episode 4 Recap
Years ago, Princess Tianji, recognizing Ji Bozai's extraordinary talent, invited him to represent the Jixing Abyss in the Qingyun Tournament. Ji Bozai agreed, proposing a life-or-death pact: "As long as Your Highness doesn't ask where I and my spiritual veins came from, I'll fight for you in the Qingyun Tournament. However, I have a condition. If I defeat Ming Xian of Yaoguang Mountain, I request Your Highness clear my name and make me an Immortal."
Tianji then asked what would happen if he lost, to which Ji Bozai declared, "If I fail to defeat Ming Xian in the Qingyun Tournament, you may have me executed at once. Let my primordial spirit shatter and my soul scatter across the Six Realms." Currently, the Emperor of Jixing Abyss has been ill and disoriented for a long time. Princess Tianji believed that once she married Ji Bozai, the overall situation would stabilize.
She confided in her father, saying, "Father, everything will get better once I marry Ji Bozai." However, Ji Bozai consistently avoided discussing the marriage. Meanwhile, Immortal Yan Xiao, who had long secretly admired Tianji, grew jealous seeing her preference for Ji Bozai. Tianji confronted Yan Xiao, accusing him of making her father a puppet and planning to kill her, as her father's unconscious periods grew longer after Yan Xiao became his physician.
Yan Xiao calmly explained that "His Majesty is chronically ill. Sleep helps him heal." Tianji found his "false face" disgusting but admitted that his comparison made her appreciate Ji Bozai's worth. She felt that making Ji Bozai her consort "couldn't be more fitting." Yan Xiao then advised her to investigate her consort candidate, revealing, "It appears Your Highness is unaware of the new mistress of Wugui Sea." Tianji dismissed this, stating that "Ji Bozai's womanizing isn't something new."
Yan Xiao countered, "Your Highness has always had poor judgment in character. You once fell for me and got deceived. Now you've set your sights on Ji Bozai. How sure are you that he's truly trustworthy?" Tianji retorted that Ji Bozai "insists on standing on his own strength," implying Yan Xiao's character was inferior for "clawing his way upward at any cost."
Later, Tianji reminded Ji Bozai that she had freed him from his prisoner status, but Ji Bozai stated plainly that their arrangement was a fair deal. He pointed out that with the Emperor in a prolonged coma and Lord Hanfeng's influence at its peak, it would be difficult for Tianji to obtain a marriage decree, concluding that "a warrior who can win the Qingyun Tournament means far more than any consort."
Enraged, Princess Tianji sent someone to forcibly bring Ming Yi to Shouhua Academy, where Ming Yi realized the Venerable of the academy was Tianji herself. Tianji commanded Ming Yi to leave Ji Bozai, offering her a "sea of riches" and "1,000 taels of blessed fortune." Ming Yi countered by asking for "the Golden Millet Dream," which Tianji could not provide. Tianji then threatened Ming Yi's life.
Aware that Ji Bozai was listening from outside, Ming Yi boldly declared, "Ever since Ji Bozai rescued me from that hellish Moonlit Blossoms, I've fallen hopelessly in love with him. I'm deeply in love with him. I'd die for him." Tianji, angered, ordered her subordinate Xiuyun to kill Ming Yi. Just then, Ji Bozai burst in, protecting Ming Yi.
He confronted Tianji, reiterating that "what lies between us is only a fair deal," and reminded her that a powerful warrior was "far more than any consort," which Tianji, though vexed, conceded. Before leaving, Ji Bozai issued a stern warning: "If anyone dares to harm my Ming Yi again, even if it's the Emperor himself, I'll kill whoever does."
Tianji's guard questioned Ji Bozai's disrespect, but Tianji dismissed it, stating his attitude didn't matter as long as he hadn't aligned with her uncle's faction. Ming Xin personally went to Moonlit Blossoms to inquire about Ming Yi. Zhang Tai and the other women, aware of his malicious intent, feigned ignorance and successfully covered for her. Later, Zhang Tai visited Ming Yi at Wugui Sea and recounted the incident.
She described the guest as "tall, handsome, thin," who hid behind a screen and "obviously had ill intentions." Zhang Tai added a crucial detail: the man "didn't touch a drop of wine that day, but he did take a bite of a chestnut cake." Recognizing this habit, Ming Yi immediately realized it was her "idiot" brother, Ming Xin. Meanwhile, Lord Hanfeng, Mu Qibai, summoned Situ Ling, the new head of the Judgment Hall.
Mu Qibai’s congratulatory words were laced with intimidation, but Situ Ling refused to play along and left abruptly, citing his duties. Following this, Mu Qibai’s attendant suggested hosting a banquet to probe the relationship between Ji Bozai and a woman named Bo Yulan. On the way to the banquet, as their pleasure boat glided across the water, Ming Yi probed Ji Bozai about Ming Xian, mentioning a broken iron fan she had found in his room.
Ji Bozai explained that it was Ming Xian's weapon. He acknowledged Ming Xian as "an incredibly gifted warrior" who he thought "might even defeat me." However, during their fight, "his spiritual power seemed to fail all at once," causing Ji Bozai to almost kill him. Ming Xian's weapon saved his life, so Ji Bozai kept it, hoping to return it one day.
Upon hearing this, Ming Yi realized that the person who had poisoned her with Heavenly Grief was not Ji Bozai, but someone else. At the banquet, Immortal Yan Xiao offered a toast to Ji Bozai, who declined, stating, "Ming Yi won't let me drink," and had Ming Yi drink on his behalf. Soon after, Mu Qibai arrived and produced a "portrait of a beauty" found in the former residence of Hou Zhao, the previous head of the Judgment Hall.
This beauty was Bo Yulan. Mu Qibai asked Ji Bozai if he recognized her. Ji Bozai, despite his inner fury, calmly stated that any past acquaintances were "all in the past" and that "now, my heart holds only Ming Yi." Another guest, Immortal Sun Liao, made a crude comment about the "fairy in the portrait." Sensing Ji Bozai's mounting anger, Ming Yi created a distraction by deliberately throwing a cup.
Sun Liao accused her of doing it on purpose and grabbed for her. Ji Bozai attacked Sun Liao, silencing the room. Mu Qibai then asked if his anger was "for the beauty by your side or for the fairy in the portrait." Ming Yi quickly knelt and took the blame, but Ji Bozai made her rise, stating he was simply "protecting the one I love." Declaring the place "dull" and "crawling with scoundrels," Ji Bozai promptly left with Ming Yi.
On their way back, Ming Yi confessed she had caused the disturbance deliberately, to which he replied, "I know." Ji Bozai then gently massaged her bruised wrist. Later that night, Ming Yi followed a magical worm to a desolate area that was once the site of a pavilion she had burned down. There, they discovered that Ji Bozai had hidden the Spirit Well, inside of which was the antidote, the Golden Millet Dream.
Twenty-Seven explained that no one could enter Ji Bozai's Spirit Well "unless you share Ji Bozai's divine consciousness." To bypass this, Twenty-Seven suggested marriage, as newlyweds form a heart imprint through the Marriage Stone that allows them to share divine consciousness. Separation would be simple, only requiring them to agree to erase their names. Ming Yi agreed to this "shortcut." Reflecting on how to entice Ji Bozai into marriage, Ming Yi recalled his strong reaction to Bo Yulan's portrait.
She believed that helping him with this matter would increase his affection for her. They planned for Ming Yi to break into the Judgment Hall. Meanwhile, Twenty-Seven lured Ming Xin, who was tracking Ming Yi, towards the Hall. Ming Xin tried to break the Hall's barrier and was knocked unconscious by the backlash. At the same time, Ji Bozai arrived at the Judgment Hall to retrieve the portrait himself.
Ming Yi took advantage of the chaos and snuck inside, only to come face to face with Ji Bozai. When he asked what she was doing there, Ming Yi claimed she was there "for you." Asked how she entered, she spun a tale about using her charm on the guards, explaining how she "tugged at my collar just a bit," causing them to "open a gap in the array for me." Though Ji Bozai's eyes narrowed with suspicion, he did not press further, temporarily suppressing his doubts.
Episode 5 Recap
As a child, Ji Bozai endured severe bullying and hardship after being cast into the Sunken Abyss. He was tormented by others, who taunted him with food, demanding he kneel, and called him a "wretch his own parents abandoned at the border." He defiantly refused to kneel, vowing internally, "I must get out of here alive." He eventually found a way to escape, fleeing into the wilderness where he was hunted by pursuers.
It was during this time that he fortunately met Bo Yulan, who took him as her disciple, forever altering his destiny. Later, Ming Yi, aiming to win Ji Bozai's affection, feigned deep concern and offered to face danger in his stead. Ji Bozai, to her surprise, readily agreed. Stunned, Ming Yi secretly gritted her teeth and proceeded, retrieving a painting which triggered a hidden trap.
Ji Bozai moved to shield her, but Ming Yi deliberately maneuvered herself to take a Soul-Devouring Arrow to her shoulder, ensuring both Ji Bozai and the painting were safe. She mentally noted her own principle, "Ming Yi takes risks for wealth," and observed that Ji Bozai appeared to feel some pity for her. He checked on her, asking if she was hurt, and urged her to return to Wugui Sea.
Ming Yi, however, insisted they take more valuables to make the theft appear more convincing, and Ji Bozai understood her meaning. The next morning, Mu Qibai summoned Situ Ling, ordering him to thoroughly investigate the theft of the Bo clan portrait from the Judgment Hall. Situ Ling pushed back, arguing he had no spiritual veins or evidence, making it impossible to search Wugui Sea or prevail if Ji Bozai resisted.
He bluntly stated that while Mu Qibai could give orders, he couldn't promise to execute them all. Annoyed by Situ Ling's insubordination, Mu Qibai dismissed him and instead tasked Yan Xiao with the investigation. Yan Xiao proceeded to Wugui Sea with an injury detector. Ji Bozai, feigning ignorance, allowed himself to be tested, which showed no trace of a Soul-Devouring Arrow wound. Yan Xiao then insisted on examining Ming Yi.
Ji Bozai dismissed the idea of a "lowly fairy" breaking into the Judgment Hall, but Yan Xiao revealed that the Hall's main entrance array was breached, allowing anyone free access. Ming Yi then made a dramatic appearance, complaining about the early disturbance and implying she and Ji Bozai had been engaged in intimate activities, stating, "You're a single man, so you don't know that people can't bear to be disturbed sometimes."
After some playful banter, she allowed herself to be tested, which also yielded no signs of injury. Ji Bozai then mockingly suggested Yan Xiao directly accuse them, implying the investigation was a mere pretense. Yan Xiao, finding no concrete evidence, was forced to leave. Ming Yi's Soul-Devouring Arrow wound then flared up. Ji Bozai personally attended to her, carefully applying Blood-Calming Powder, a rare and precious medicine, to her shoulder.
He told her she didn't need to return to Moonlit Blossoms and to speak if she was in pain. Ming Yi was deeply moved, recalling how no one had ever shown her such concern before. She told Ji Bozai she was hungry, and he took her to the Huansha Market. There, he bought her scallion pancakes, her favorite food.
Ming Yi was touched that he remembered her preference, triggering a flashback to her childhood when her mother would make her scallion pancakes before the Qingyun Tournament. Overwhelmed with emotion, she began to cry, revealing her desire to return to Yaoguang Mountain. Ji Bozai, mistaking her tears for pain from her wound, became worried. Seizing the moment, Ming Yi leaned into his embrace, confessing her fears that he would abandon her if a "true mistress" came to Wugui Sea.
Ji Bozai reassured her, promising they would not be separated. Ming Yi inwardly rejoiced, her risky scheme having succeeded. Ji Bozai then explained to a subordinate that Ming Yi had deliberately stolen other valuables during the painting theft to make it appear as a simple burglary, and he had used spells to blind the spygrass at Wugui Sea, all to mislead their adversaries.
He admitted going out to be seen enjoying himself, wanting them to believe he was focused on pleasure. Meanwhile, in the Jade Rabbit Hall, servants discussed how Yan Xiao, once a favored guard of the Tianji Princess, had changed after passing the Immortal Examination and aligning with Mu Qibai. He even hid the Divine Lord's condition from Tianji, earning her disdain. The Princess herself tried to visit her long-ailing father, the Jixing Divine Lord, but was blocked by guards.
She angrily questioned if Mu Qibai now controlled Jixing Palace. Yan Xiao arrived, claiming the guards were merely trying to protect the Divine Lord's peace. Tianji confronted him, reminding him of their shared past as childhood sweethearts. A flashback showed a young Tianji promising to marry "Brother Yan" when she grew up. In the present, Tianji and Yan Xiao continued their tense exchange, discussing the upcoming Warrior Selection and her potential marriage to Ji Bozai.
Yan Xiao hinted that Ji Bozai had already rejected her, but Tianji defiantly declared her determination to win Ji Bozai's heart, citing her deep affection for him as the reason she tolerated his flaws. Yan Xiao, looking pained, accused her of being a master of disguise, saying her behavior was not like her true self. Separately, Twenty-Seven reported her findings to Ming Yi.
She informed Ming Yi that her younger brother, Ming Xin, had been injured and sent back to Yaoguang Mountain, ensuring they would not be bothered for a while. Twenty-Seven also revealed that the woman in the portrait was Bo Yulan, from the esteemed Bo clan, a lineage of traveling physicians famous for crafting Heavenly Grief and Golden Millet Dream. The animated quality of the portrait was a special technique of the Bo clan.
Twenty-Seven's research in Langhuan Pavilion indicated the Bo clan had lived in seclusion on Zhangwei Mountain but vanished after a mountain fire over twenty years ago. Ming Yi suspected it was not a natural disaster but rather a plot by someone coveting their potent medicines. She deduced Ji Bozai's connection to Bo Yulan explained his possession of the Golden Millet Dream and wondered if he was a descendant of the Bo clan.
This led her to question why Mu Qibai held Bo Yulan's portrait, speculating he might have harmed her. Ming Yi then pondered Ji Bozai's imprisonment in the Sunken Abyss, suggesting he was framed, as he was too young to have committed grave crimes. This sparked a larger doubt: perhaps all those imprisoned in the Sunken Abyss were unjustly accused.
Later, Yan Xiao reported to Mu Qibai that his investigation into the painting theft had yielded no results, and even the spygrass placed in Wugui Sea had only captured footage of Ji Bozai and Ming Yi's intimacy. Mu Qibai, frustrated by the "filth" on the recordings, grew wary that Ji Bozai might have detected their surveillance. He immediately ordered Xun Ming to be recalled.
At the same time, Ji Bozai knelt solemnly before a portrait of Bo Yulan, recalling the moment she accepted him as her disciple. He vowed that in three days, he would offer the blood of his first enemy as tribute to her. On the day of the Jixing Abyss Selection Tournament, Yan Xiao, Situ Ling, and Meng Yangqiu were among those present.
Situ Ling complained about the duties of a Chief of Judgment Hall, while Meng Yangqiu, reminiscing about their shared childhood, reminded him to address Tianji as "the Venerable." Tianji Princess arrived to personally oversee the selection. As the first half of the tournament concluded, Ji Bozai had still not appeared, causing Tianji visible concern. At the very last moment, Ji Bozai arrived with Ming Yi by his side.
Their entrance caused a stir among the attendees, who openly criticized him for bringing a female companion, deeming it inappropriate and disrespectful to the Princess. Tianji confronted him, acknowledging their affection but questioning the presence of a female companion at a warrior selection. Ji Bozai retorted by gesturing to Ming Yi and declaring, "She is my amulet."
Episode 6 Recap
Previously, Ming Xian, having fled Yaoguang Mountain, searched for her companion, Twenty-Seven, while stranded in a deep valley. She stumbled upon a couple of herb gatherers who had died suddenly from poisoning, their young daughter, Ming Yi, also deceased and unburied. Recognizing an opportunity, Ming Xian decided to assume Ming Yi's identity to conceal herself within Jixing Abyss.
At Shouhua Academy, during the warrior selection event, Ji Bozai defiantly wore Ming Yi's hairpin, despite the public's disapproval, calling him "shameless" and "arrogant." Princess Tianji, angered by his conduct, demanded he remove it, promising to allow Ming Yi to observe the competition by his side if he complied. Ji Bozai, with a smirk, removed the hairpin and entrusted it to her for safekeeping.
Feeling insulted, Tianji, followed by Meng Yangqiu and Yan Xiao, retreated to her chambers, where Meng Yangqiu tried to cheer her up with her favorite childhood candy. Tianji then proposed that Meng Yangqiu and Yan Xiao join the warrior selection due to the declining talent in Jixing Abyss. While Meng Yangqiu readily agreed, Yan Xiao, a physician without spiritual veins, expressed his reluctance, arguing that he served another and was unfit to be a warrior.
Despite Tianji's insistence that she had no other choice, Yan Xiao refused and attempted to leave. Soon after, Tianji suddenly collapsed, poisoned. Meng Yangqiu frantically called for help and feared the candy he had given her was the cause, but Yan Xiao quickly confirmed the candy was harmless. Meng Yangqiu then accused Ji Bozai, suggesting he had poisoned Tianji through the hairpin she had touched.
Meanwhile, Ji Bozai, unperturbed, remained seated with Ming Yi, remarking to her, "No matter how sly the fox is, if it gets soft, its claws will inevitably be blunted. In the end, it becomes the rabbit's dinner." Yan Xiao soon discovered that Tianji had intentionally poisoned herself with a complex mixture of seven toxins, testing his medical prowess and loyalty. He rebuked her foolishness, but to save her, he quickly formulated a unique antidote, clearing the poison.
Upon her recovery, Tianji announced the preliminary list of selected warriors, emphasizing that this was not the final roster as Shouhua Academy would continue to seek talent for the upcoming Qingyun Tournament. The list included Ji Bozai as Chief Warrior, Sun Liao as Front Shield, Chen Xi as Forger, Meng Yangqiu as Vice Captain, and Yan Xiao as Healer.
Despite Yan Xiao's protest that his lack of spiritual veins made him unsuitable, Tianji asserted her authority to change old rules for the greater good of Jixing Abyss. She cited his unparalleled skill in curing her recent poisoning as undeniable proof of his suitability, silencing any dissent. The assembly was interrupted by the arrival of the Emperor of Jixing, Mu Yuanfeng, accompanied by Mu Qibai.
Mu Yuanfeng delivered a brief address, commending the warriors, before Mu Qibai urged him to return for rest due to his frail health. As the Emperor was about to leave, a figure named Hou Zhao burst in, openly confessing his crimes to Mu Yuanfeng. He admitted to secretly crafting the potent elixirs "Heavenly Grief" and "Golden Millet Dream" within the Sunken Abyss for the past twenty-two years, using the labor of its prisoners.
He explained that he had acquired a partial medical text from the Bo clan, but due to its incompleteness, he had only managed to produce "Heavenly Grief." Given that the Sunken Abyss fell under Mu Qibai's jurisdiction, Mu Yuanfeng immediately questioned his involvement. Mu Qibai, suspecting Ji Bozai's machinations, subtly threatened Hou Zhao, warning him that false accusations could harm his entire clan and urging him to reveal who truly instigated him.
However, under immense pressure, Hou Zhao ultimately took full responsibility, claiming he forged Mu Qibai's handwriting and acted alone. Just as Mu Yuanfeng was about to send Hou Zhao to prison, a maid from Moonlit Blossoms named Ruo Shui dramatically stepped forward. She revealed herself as Hou Zhao's illegitimate daughter and accused him of far graver crimes.
Ruo Shui detailed how Hou Zhao used "dark-spirit chains" to enslave innocent immortals as laborers in the Sunken Abyss, and how the toxic runoff from his illicit potion refining polluted nearby villages, causing a "Withered-Branch Disease" and the "sign of Total Deterioration." She recounted her own abandonment by Hou Zhao for being born with this disease, leading to her mother's death from grief. Ruo Shui, seeking justice, then called upon Ming Yi as a witness.
Realizing she was a pawn in Ji Bozai's intricate scheme, Ming Yi stepped forward to protect her identity and seek justice for her assumed parents. She described their agonizing death in detail. At Ji Bozai's prompting, Yan Xiao identified the symptoms as poisoning from long-term exposure to "Blood Pearl Bloom," confirming the toxin came from the polluted Sunken Abyss waters. Another former Sunken Abyss prisoner corroborated their claims, stating he had been forced to transport Blood Pearl Blooms.
Ji Bozai also declared his own innocence as a past prisoner of Sunken Abyss, challenging Mu Qibai's attempt to deflect the conversation towards Ruo Shui's motives, insisting that uncovering the truth of the Sunken Abyss was paramount. Ji Bozai pressed further, questioning how Hou Zhao could have orchestrated such an elaborate plot alone, implicitly pointing towards Mu Qibai as the mastermind. The hall erupted in speculation.
Tianji, sensing the truth, demanded Hou Zhao reveal who was truly behind him, promising to spare his life. As the crowd urged Hou Zhao to confess, Mu Qibai subtly signaled Yan Xiao, who then used a hidden device to make Emperor Mu Yuanfeng faint. Yan Xiao immediately announced that the Emperor had overexerted himself and needed rest. This abrupt turn of events effectively halted the investigation.
Mu Qibai then swiftly ordered his brother to be escorted back to the palace, and Hou Zhao was sent to prison. Acting in the Emperor's stead, Mu Qibai pronounced Hou Zhao's swift and severe sentence: stripped of his immortal title, branded a criminal, condemned to heavenly lightning, annihilation of his primordial spirit, and eternal dispersion across the Six Realms. Mu Qibai then questioned Ruo Shui about any hidden instigators, but she maintained she acted alone.
He tried to question Ji Bozai about Ruo Shui's connections at Moonlit Blossoms, but Ji Bozai feigned disinterest, stating he no longer visited such places now that he had Ming Yi. Ming Yi, in turn, playfully warned Mu Qibai to report any of Ji Bozai's future dalliances, but Mu Qibai brushed it aside as merely discussing official matters.
He then declared that despite their courage, Ming Yi and Ruo Shui, for speaking against a superior, would still face the prescribed "hanging punishment." To isolate Ming Yi, Mu Qibai invited Ji Bozai away for a "serious discussion." Left alone, Ming Yi continued to curse Ji Bozai, accusing him of using everyone as pawns. Ruo Shui, however, defended him, insisting that his interactions with the women at Moonlit Blossoms were innocent and that he was genuinely a good man.
Their argument was abruptly interrupted by a netherbeast attack. As Ming Yi bravely moved to protect Ruo Shui, she was forced to unleash her spiritual power, which caused a petal of her rare Grief Blossom to fall. Unbeknownst to them, Situ Ling, who happened to be nearby, witnessed the entire incident.
Episode 7 Recap
Ming Yi, regretting her carelessness in letting Situ Ling witness her using her powers, feigned unconsciousness. Ji Bozai rushed to her side, waking her. Ming Yi seized the chance to claim she had been attacked by netherbeasts and was saved by Situ Ling. She was about to cast a spell on Situ Ling to silence him, but he readily accepted the credit for saving her, perplexing her.
Though Mu Qibai had doubts, he dropped his inquiry when Situ Ling confirmed Ming Yi's story. At Ji Bozai's firm request, Mu Qibai reluctantly agreed to fully investigate the sudden appearance of the netherbeasts. Back at Wugui Sea, Twenty-Seven expressed worry, chastising Ming Yi for her recklessness. Ming Yi felt no regret for saving Ruo Shui, especially since no one else could have at that moment, but found the day's events odd.
First, Ruo Shui exposed Hou Zhao's use of the Sunken Abyss to refine poison, and then, netherbeasts, believed extinct for a century, suddenly appeared. Ming Yi reasoned that this commotion might lead to a thorough investigation of the Sunken Abyss, thus protecting innocent herb gatherers.
She confirmed she had distributed the spirit stones Ji Bozai gave her to the poor, considering it an act of "robbing the rich to help the poor," though Twenty-Seven believed Ji Bozai's actions were purely self-serving. Ji Bozai visited Ming Yi and stayed late into the night. He waited by her bed, promising to leave after she slept, and departed only when Buxiu came for him. Unbeknownst to him, Ming Yi was feigning sleep, observing his true intentions.
In the heavenly prison, Situ Ling executed divine punishment on Hou Zhao. After Situ Ling left, Ji Bozai and Buxiu appeared. Ji Bozai calmly exposed Hou Zhao's deception, revealing him as a "wolf in sheep's clothing" who betrayed his own daughter. He explained that the Hou clan suffered from the Withered-Branch Disease, and to ensure his lineage, Hou Zhao made a pact with a tree spirit.
Having taken all of Hou Zhao's memories, Ji Bozai recounted the full truth: the pact required the sacrifice of a healthy descendant. To fulfill this, Hou Zhao planned to cure Ruo Shui with Moonshade Grass, only for a bewitching spell he had implanted on her to activate, forcing her to sacrifice herself. As Hou Zhao begged him to keep his promise and save Ruo Shui, Ji Bozai scoffed, questioning how he could expect an enemy to honor a promise.
Ji Bozai exposed Hou Zhao's self-deception, stating he only ever saw his daughter as an offering, and vowed that Hou Zhao would witness the extinction of his clan, avenging his master, Bo Yulan, a hundredfold. With his schemes exposed and hope shattered, Hou Zhao's spirit was destroyed. Ming Yi, hidden nearby, overheard Ji Bozai's confession, realizing his actions were driven by revenge for his master. Back in her room, her suspicion intensified that her own poisoning might have another cause.
Twenty-Seven cautioned her not to waver, reminding her of Ji Bozai's continued suspicious status. Ming Yi, however, acknowledged that Ji Bozai would continue his quest for vengeance, and she was still useful to him. She resolved that their battle would come down to who was more ruthless.
She also mused about their difficult journey from Yaoguang Mountain, their struggles, and how she had to sell herself to Moonlit Blossoms to get close to Ji Bozai and support the people of Freezing Hot Waters. Ming Yi then asked Twenty-Seven to investigate Xun Ming, believing him to be Ji Bozai's next target, and expressed her intention to help Ji Bozai take him down.
Later, Ji Bozai instructed Buxiu to arrange Ruo Shui's departure and to preemptively investigate Mu Qibai, whose sudden appearance of young netherbeasts indicated a depraved plan beyond merely seizing power in Jixing Abyss. Ji Bozai revealed that Hou Zhao's memories had also pointed to another person involved in his master's murder, whom he intended to kill. Ji Bozai wrestled with his guilt for manipulating Ming Yi's trust.
He confided in Buxiu, vaguely describing a "friend" who used a "fairy" for his goals and injured her, now seeking to make amends but unsure how. Buxiu, curious about this new "friend," questioned him further. Unsatisfied, Buxiu later discussed this with Granny Xun, who advised that instead of wasting words, his "friend" should offer more material compensation. Ji Bozai, taking this advice, decided on his approach.
At the next morning court in Jixing Palace, officials pressed Ji Bozai about the antidote "Golden Millet Dream." Ming Yi arrived, dramatically interrupting the proceedings by offering a jar of wine she called "Golden Millet Dream," made from Fortuniana Rose, thus cleverly sidestepping the inquiry and embarrassing the officials who had been prying.
She pointedly called out Immortal Sun Liao, Immortal Tai, and Immortal Lun'an for their hypocrisy, noting how they slandered Ji Bozai behind his back but flattered him to his face. Ming Yi revealed that the wine's true name was "My Heart's Delight," intended for Ji Bozai. He initially declined, stating he only drank his own brews, but then accepted it.
In a carriage afterwards, Ji Bozai gave Ming Yi a significant amount of spirit stones, ostensibly as a reward for enduring torture the previous day, but in truth, a subtle act of apology that brought him quiet satisfaction, though Ming Yi sensed his underlying guilt. Meanwhile, Mu Qibai, still plotting, summoned General Xun Ming, one of the perpetrators responsible for the murder of Bo Yulan.
Xun Ming, a member of the Yousu Fox Tribe, was renowned for his ability to conceal his primordial spirit, rendering him untraceable and contemptuous of Ji Bozai's threats. Mu Qibai warned Xun Ming that if Ji Bozai orchestrated recent events and failed to expose their involvement, he would surely seek other ways to target them, advising Xun Ming to be cautious. Xun Ming, confident in his abilities, declared he would take Ji Bozai's life instead. Ming Yi, suspicious that her identity might be compromised after her display of power, decided to visit Situ Ling at the Judgment Hall to discreetly uncover his true intentions.
Episode 8 Recap
Young Situ Ling sat alone outside the Qingyun Tournament, despondent. He explained to Ming Xian that his family despised him for being born without spiritual veins, and his father never took him to such events, making him feel useless and unworthy, despite his deep admiration for Warrior God Ming Xian. Ming Xian, remarking on the unfairness of Situ Ling's family, then offered to take him inside.
Seeing a gilt cloud-patterned armlet on Situ Ling, Ming Xian asked to borrow it, promising to win the upcoming match for him. Situ Ling was amazed when he realized the "little brother" who took his armlet and easily won the match was none other than Warrior God Ming Xian, whom he had always revered.
Ming Xian told him that the armlet had already been to the Totem Platform before him, and that with enough will, Situ Ling could overcome his limitations, even creating spiritual veins or changing the rules for warriors. Ming Xian assured him that he too would become very strong. Years later, when Ming Yi entered the Judgement Hall, Situ Ling, recognizing her, immediately took out the gilt armlet he had treasured for years.
He confirmed his suspicion that she was the one he had been waiting for, the person most important to him, and vowed to protect her. Ming Yi, however, denied being Ming Xian, claiming she was just an ordinary attendant from Moonlit Blossoms who had accidentally saved Ruo Shui and needed to thank Situ Ling for helping her then.
Despite her denial and his confusion about why she had appeared as a man years ago and now denied their past while dressed as a woman, Situ Ling swallowed his many questions and promised he would never tell anyone her secret. Ji Bozai personally escorted Ruo Shui out of Jixing Abyss. Ruo Shui expressed her gratitude, saying that without him, she would have become a sacrifice due to Hou Zhao's bewitching spell.
She insisted that Ji Bozai was a very kind person, despite his claims that their relationship was merely a transaction. As a token of her appreciation, now cured of her Withered-Branch Disease after consuming the Moonshade Grass, Ruo Shui offered a precious Moonshade Grass to Ji Bozai as a gift. He initially tried to refuse, but Bu Xiu, seeing this, accepted it on his behalf.
Ji Bozai later mused to Bu Xiu about Ruo Shui considering him a savior, claiming he merely used her. Bu Xiu, however, pointed out that Ji Bozai had provided the Moonshade Grass even before Ruo Shui exposed Hou Zhao, leading Ji Bozai to reflect on his actions. That night, General Xun Ming visited Situ Ling's residence, citing Lord Hanfeng's concern about a netherbeast sighting at Shouhua Academy.
Xun Ming explained that netherbeasts had been extinct for a century, and their reappearance would pose a great threat to Jixing Abyss and the Six Realms. He urged Situ Ling to expedite the investigation by searching door-to-door for any traces of netherbeasts.
He then gave Situ Ling a specially crafted artifact, claiming it could accurately detect netherbeast auras, but internally, Xun Ming believed Ji Bozai possessed the Golden Millet Dream and intended for Situ Ling to use the artifact to find it for Lord Hanfeng, who had previously failed to locate it in Wugui Sea. Situ Ling sensed the hidden agenda but gave no indication of his suspicions.
Meanwhile, Ji Bozai, having identified Xun Ming as his next target for revenge, went to Moonlit Blossoms to find Fu Yue of the Yousu Fox Tribe. Fu Yue teased him about having a loved one and not cherishing women anymore, and how he had even "killed" her before. Ji Bozai, acknowledging the Yousu Fox Tribe's resilience, presented a substantial sum of money and asked her how to kill a Yousu Fox.
Fu Yue initially feigned reluctance to betray her tribe's secrets, demanding three times the offered amount, which Ji Bozai immediately agreed to. Fu Yue then revealed that even the most powerful Yousu Fox hides their primordial spirit in a simple way: within their most treasured memory. By finding and entering this memory's illusory realm, one could locate and kill their true body.
Ji Bozai commented that this information wouldn't help him defeat Fu Yue, but she playfully suggested that her most treasured memory might be related to him. Fu Yue confessed that with changing times and difficult business, and rumors of Ji Bozai marrying Princess Tianji to inherit Jixing Abyss, she was simply placing her bets on him. Situ Ling, under the pretense of searching for netherbeasts, entered Wugui Sea, though his real aim was to find the Golden Millet Dream.
Granny Xun initially resisted, stating that Ji Bozai was absent and no outsiders were permitted. However, Ming Yi, seeing through the ruse and intending to protect the Spirit Well, intervened, allowing Situ Ling's men to enter, reasoning that defying Lord Hanfeng's orders would cast suspicion on Ji Bozai. Ming Yi then tried to subtly hinder their progress.
She guided them to Ji Bozai's treasury, claiming it held valuable artifacts sensitive to fire and light, and tried to prevent them from using fire for illumination. Despite her efforts, a clumsy follower of Situ Ling accidentally started a fire, burning down the treasury.
Ming Yi erupted in anguish, loudly lamenting the loss of Ji Bozai's unique treasures, including a lotus lamp, a Diamond Demon-Subduing Pestle, and a boomerang, all the while blaming the attendant for burning the only artifact capable of detecting netherbeasts. As Ji Bozai returned, he witnessed Situ Ling offering tender comfort and care to Ming Yi, which instantly sparked his jealousy.
Situ Ling tried to explain his presence was due to Lord Hanfeng's orders, ostensibly to search for netherbeasts, but also to check on Ming Yi and handle any schemes against them himself rather than letting others. He apologized again for the accidental fire and offered compensation, which Ji Bozai dismissed.
After Situ Ling left, Ming Yi explained the full situation to Ji Bozai, emphasizing that she let Situ Ling search to avoid suspicion, and how the artifact seemed to be looking for something other than netherbeasts. When Ji Bozai questioned why she defended Situ Ling, hinting at jealousy and asking if they were colluding, Ming Yi realized his feelings for her were deeper than she thought.
Taking advantage of this, she boldly suggested he marry her and form a heart imprint, so no other men would bother her. Although Ji Bozai called her insincere, she pressed on, confessing her growing desire to be his official wife, and he did not reject her, filling Ming Yi with quiet optimism. Unable to contain his excitement, Situ Ling hastily summoned his confidante, Fu Yue, to share the joyous news of finally finding Ming Xian.
Fu Yue, though happy for him, showed a flicker of sadness in her eyes before congratulating him. She confirmed Ming Yi was the person Situ Ling had been searching for, even though she too had believed Ming Xian to be male for many years.
Situ Ling, reflecting on Mu Qibai's attempt to use him to search Wugui Sea, realized Ming Yi's proximity to Ji Bozai made her vulnerable, and was glad his position in Judgement Hall allowed him to help her. Fu Yue warned him that Ming Yi belonged to Ji Bozai, and aiding her would put him in direct opposition to Mu Qibai. Situ Ling dismissed the warning, declaring that Ming Xian was the only light in his miserable past.
He was determined to find the Golden Millet Dream to cultivate his spiritual veins, become as strong as Ming Xian, and protect the woman he deeply cherished, even if it meant defying the entire Six Realms. As the artifact compass for finding the Golden Millet Dream was destroyed, Xun Ming personally went to Moonlit Blossoms to investigate Ming Yi's background, asking Fu Yue when Ming Yi had first arrived there.
However, he became completely entranced when he saw Zhang Tai, a talented dancer from the Jingwei tribe found in the East Sea of Jixing Abyss, whose appearance strikingly resembled his beloved. He was momentarily lost in her graceful presence, forgetting his original purpose. The next morning, Granny Xun delivered a chest full of jewelry and silk to Ming Yi on Ji Bozai's behalf. Twenty-Seven, perplexed, repeatedly warned Ming Yi not to be swayed by Ji Bozai, questioning his generosity.
Ming Yi speculated that Ji Bozai was thanking her for "clearing the trouble" of Situ Ling, or perhaps gently rejecting her proposal for marriage by offering gifts instead of commitment. Twenty-Seven worried that without marrying Ji Bozai, Ming Yi couldn't access the Spirit Well to find the Golden Millet Dream and save her own life. Ming Yi, however, believed she needed to prove her usefulness to secure his marriage.
Twenty-Seven then shared a shocking piece of news: Ming Yi's good friend, Zhang Tai, was getting married. Ming Yi was taken aback, finding it impossible that Zhang Tai, her best friend, would not tell her such important news. Convinced something was amiss, she immediately sought out Ji Bozai, asking for permission to visit Moonlit Blossoms.
Ji Bozai, having already suspected that Zhang Tai's fiancé was Xun Ming—since few Yousu Foxes lived in the capital of Jixing Abyss and Ming Yi was not aligned with Mu Qibai after exposing her parents' murder—readily agreed to accompany her.
He saw this as an opportunity to leverage Ming Yi's relationship with Zhang Tai to get close to Xun Ming and discover how to kill him, acknowledging that his recent lavish gifts to Ming Yi were indeed a means to win her over for such strategic purposes. Ming Yi confirmed she would bring the jewelry Ji Bozai had given her as a wedding gift for Zhang Tai.
Episode 9 Recap
Upon Ming Yi's arrival at Moonlit Blossoms, her lack of grace in dance, having been raised as a boy, was evident. Despite practicing a simple dance hundreds of times, she struggled to grasp the steps, infuriating the Madam. Zhang Tai, however, bravely stepped forward, claiming she had taught Ming Yi the wrong steps the previous night and offering to take the punishment herself. The Madam, though aware of Zhang Tai's loyalty, insisted on punishing both.
Zhang Tai then skillfully deflected by mentioning her recent illness and the potential loss of business from Immortal Xue, Immortal Hao, and Immortal Liu if she fell ill again. However, Ming Yi took responsibility for herself, insisting her poor dance skills and lack of practice were to blame and that she should face the consequences alone. This act of mutual protection forged a deep bond between them.
News of Zhang Tai's sudden marriage, without any prior notification, struck Ming Yi as highly unusual and concerning. Ming Yi visited Zhang Tai and immediately sensed something was amiss, observing her stiff demeanor and lack of usual sparkle. Probing with questions about her new husband, General Xun Ming, Zhang Tai responded with uncharacteristically formal praise like "learned, courteous, honest, and loyal," a stark contrast to her previous superficial assessments of men.
Ming Yi's final test, inquiring about a wrist injury that was actually on Zhang Tai's waist, confirmed her suspicions. Ji Bozai then revealed a puppet mark on the back of Zhang Tai's neck, confirming it was a mere likeness. He explained that Xun Ming had extracted seven of Zhang Tai's senses, and without her remaining three souls and seven senses reunited within 15 days, she would perish.
The sisters at Moonlit Blossoms, distraught by the news and recalling Zhang Tai's unwavering kindness and generosity, tearfully pleaded with Ming Yi for her rescue. Ming Yi, recalling Zhang Tai’s past protection, felt immense grief and implored Ji Bozai for his aid. Ji Bozai warned Ming Yi that saving Zhang Tai would mean confronting the most formidable fox demon in Jixing Abyss, Xun Ming, a powerful and elusive adversary.
He cautioned that even with his full protection, success was not guaranteed, and Xun Ming could easily destroy her. Undeterred, Ming Yi solemnly thanked Ji Bozai, declaring that her friendship with Zhang Tai was more precious than a thousand mountains, and she would brave any danger for her. Ji Bozai then accompanied Ming Yi to Xun Ming's Dengxian Cave to see Zhang Tai.
Xun Ming initially tried to obstruct them, stating his wife no longer wished to meet anyone from her past. Ji Bozai smoothly persuaded him by feigning hunger, asking for a meal to stabilize Ming Yi's "unstable" emotions, thus securing their entry. During the meal, Ji Bozai discreetly ignited a demon fire, creating a distraction that drew Xun Ming away.
Since Xun Ming had separated all of Zhang Tai's three souls and seven senses, Ji Bozai used a secret technique to help Ming Yi's primordial spirit leave her body and enter an illusion to meet Zhang Tai. He explained that Ming Yi could not directly rescue Zhang Tai from this illusion. Only by learning Xun Ming's most cherished memory from Zhang Tai and then recreating it could they access the true Illusory Realm and retrieve Zhang Tai's soul.
He further cautioned Ming Yi that traveling with one's primordial spirit was inherently dangerous and that she would have only a short time, the duration of an incense stick, to speak with Zhang Tai. If Xun Ming discovered them, he would abandon Ming Yi to save himself. Ming Yi, though aware of the risks, was resolute and accepted the terms. Within the illusion, Ming Yi found Zhang Tai, who, though she could hear Ming Yi's voice, could not see her.
Ming Yi explained the situation and urged Zhang Tai to reveal Xun Ming's most cherished memory. Zhang Tai recounted her initial enchantment with Xun Ming at Moonlit Blossoms, finding him different from other men and "tall, handsome, and rich." However, after their marriage, she realized he was "insane." He repeatedly forced her to re-enact fox-tribe wedding ceremonies, sometimes over twenty times, always requiring them to play music together until her fingers hurt.
He also insisted on calling her "Mu Xinliu," leading Zhang Tai to suspect he had a deceased lover by that name. When Ming Yi pressed for the most cherished memory, Zhang Tai admitted she didn't know but believed it related to his beloved.
Zhang Tai then detailed her capture: after trying to persuade Xun Ming to let her visit Moonlit Blossoms and getting him drunk to extract information about his past love, he confessed, "Whether you have true feelings for me or not, you're the only one I love." He then tried to kiss her multiple times.
During yet another forced wedding ceremony, Zhang Tai, tired of playing music, fainted as he approached her and awoke to find herself trapped in a "forest," which she believed was her bridal chamber in Xun Ming's Dengxian Cave. She also heard chilling cries of other women, suspecting they were Xun Ming's previous wives who had met tragic ends, and feared she might suffer the same fate.
Zhang Tai confessed she couldn't hold on much longer, and Ming Yi promised she would not let her die there. As the incense stick neared its end, Ji Bozai swiftly extracted Ming Yi from the illusion. They emerged from Dengxian Cave, feigning that they had enjoyed a hearty meal, successfully avoiding Xun Ming's suspicion. Ming Yi, recalling Zhang Tai's mention of "Mu Xinliu" and the "Mu clan," suggested they check the royal genealogy at the Judgment Hall.
Just as they were trying to access the restricted royal genealogy of Jixing Abyss, Situ Ling unexpectedly returned. Ming Yi quickly hid Ji Bozai, confronting Situ Ling alone. With Situ Ling's assistance, Ming Yi found records of "Mu Xinliu," confirming she was Mu Qibai's cousin, married to Xun Ming, and deceased. This solidified their deduction: Xun Ming's most cherished memory was his wedding to Mu Xinliu.
As Situ Ling affectionately called Ming Yi "Sister," Ji Bozai, consumed by jealousy, emerged from the shadows. He confidently embraced Ming Yi, declaring his claim, and suggested that if Situ Ling truly wished to be family, he should address Ji Bozai as "Brother-in-law." After Ji Bozai escorted Ming Yi away from the Judgment Hall, Situ Ling sought out his subordinate, Fuyue.
Fuyue updated him on her investigation into Ming Xian, revealing that after losing the last Qingyun Tournament, Ming Xian vanished from Yaoguang Mountain, some believing she defected. Fuyue had not yet discovered why Ming Xian reverted to her female form and was now with Ji Bozai. Situ Ling, however, reacted with uncharacteristic fury upon learning Fuyue had investigated Ming Xian, instructing her not to harm Ming Yi.
Fuyue, disheartened by his rare display of anger, solemnly pledged to obey his command. Meanwhile, Ming Yi, seeking to assuage Ji Bozai's jealousy, cleverly proposed marriage to him. To rescue Zhang Tai, Ming Yi proposed they hold a wedding ceremony in Luosheng Forest, intentionally recreating Xun Ming's past wedding ritual. This idea secretly pleased Ji Bozai.
Ming Yi, however, assumed Ji Bozai would refuse, and earnestly promised that after Zhang Tai was saved, she would not cling to him and would let him decide their future. These words, despite her good intentions, brought an inexplicable pang to Ji Bozai's heart, yet he still agreed to the marriage. News of the wedding in Luosheng Forest, a place sacred as the spot where Xun Ming and Mu Xinliu had pledged their love, enraged Xun Ming. Mu Qibai, recognizing Ji Bozai and Ming Yi's scheme to lure Xun Ming out, advised him to go if he must, but cautioned him to maintain his composure.
