Moonlit Reunion Recap, Plot, Synopsis, Total Episodes

Moonlit Reunion Synopsis

An aloof gentleman and a pampered noblewoman lead double lives—by day, they are joyful lovers; by night, they fight to the death, all to protect peace and ensure tranquility for the land.

Moonlit Reunion Recap

Episode 1 Recap

A woman cloaked in black agilely pursued a Bat Demon across the rooftops of Chang'an late one night. She called out, demanding to know where the demon was going. As she cornered her prey, Commander Huang Yi of the Jinwu Guards arrived with his men, drawn by the noise. The Bat Demon seized the chance to flee, prompting the woman to swiftly escape over a wall and head towards Ruyi Pavilion.

Inside the lively Ruyi Pavilion, a calico cat darted through the bustling hall, avoiding patrons and servants, and disappeared into a private room. In a flash, the cat transformed into County Princess Wu Zhen, adorned in a splendid gilded feather dress. Wu Zhen, daughter of the Duke of Wu and sister to the Empress, was known for her rebellious spirit and unconventional life, despite her noble lineage.

Rumors of her scandalous liaisons filled Chang'an, though few knew that many of her "lovers" were demons in disguise, for Wu Zhen was, in truth, the Cat Lord, whose purpose was to subdue evil creatures.

For centuries, a hidden place known as the Beast Market, managed by the enigmatic Cat and Snake Lords and their four deputies, had maintained balance, preventing other demons from causing chaos in the human world and allowing them to avoid their historical nemesis, the Celestial Master of Changxi Palace. The Cat and Snake Lords had even aided the court in establishing the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, tasked with investigating and eradicating demons.

Despite this initial purpose, the Bureau had become an empty shell over time, while the Beast Market continued to preserve peace between realms. Soon after, Commander Huang Yi led his Jinwu Guards into Ruyi Pavilion, demanding a search for a criminal. Hu Zhu, the Ruyi Pavilion manager and a fox demon who served as a deputy to the Cat Lord, greeted him with a warm smile. She calmly assured Commander Huang there were no criminals, only beauties.

When Huang insisted he had seen someone, Hu Zhu revealed that the Young Marquis of Yu'an had reserved the entire pavilion that day to propose to Lady Wu, suggesting Huang not ruin the important event. Upstairs, the Young Marquis, Gu Changhuai, presented a marriage proposal letter, offering himself as a birthday gift to Wu Zhen. Wu Zhen, scoffing at his presumptuousness and her own infamous reputation, swiftly kicked him out over the railing.

Below, Mei Zhuyu of the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs witnessed the dramatic scene, though he found little interest in such a spectacle, explaining to a vendor that he was new to Chang'an and unfamiliar with its famous tales. After the chaos subsided, Hu Zhu entered Wu Zhen's room, detecting the faint scent of blood and confirming Wu Zhen had fought a demon. Wu Zhen admitted the Bat Demon had escaped but noted that the encounter had given her clues.

She recalled recent theft cases where victims were adorned with gold, concluding they needed to set a trap to lure out the greedy culprit. Just then, Mingzhuang, Wu Zhen's maid, arrived with gifts and marriage proposals from the Empress. Mingzhuang explained that the Empress, wishing for Wu Zhen to finally marry, had ordered all noble families to submit marriage proposal letters from every eligible bachelor.

Wu Zhen immediately instructed Mingzhuang to announce a grand birthday banquet at Ruyi Pavilion for the next day, inviting noble ladies and talented gentlemen. No gifts would be accepted, but all guests were to "dress in their finest, wearing brocade and gold." Hu Zhu instantly understood this was Wu Zhen's plan to lure the demon.

Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu learned from a colleague that angering Commissioner Xu Luan meant being transferred to the records archive, a gloomy place where past stewards had mysteriously resigned. Interested in the ancient, sealed demon scrolls within, Mei Zhuyu deliberately provoked Commissioner Xu with disingenuous flattery, implying Xu should lead the Bureau to glory by personally investigating cases. Enraged, Commissioner Xu promptly banished Mei Zhuyu to the records archive.

No sooner had Mei Zhuyu arrived than his fourth brother, Mei Si, burst in, dragging him to Wu Zhen's banquet to help the Mei family compete with the Xie family in numbers of eligible bachelors. Mei Si explained that the Empress had ordered families to submit name cards for Wu Zhen, and the arrogant Xie family had submitted nineteen, while the Mei family, with Mei Zhuyu, had barely scraped together twenty.

Mei Si assured Mei Zhuyu he was merely a "number" and Wu Zhen would never be interested in him. He then added that Wu Zhen's luck was poor this year and she needed gold in her Five Elements, so guests were advised to wear gold accessories, urging Mei Zhuyu to put some on. At the banquet, while others reveled, Mei Zhuyu sat quietly, engrossed in case files.

Xie Loubo, a self-proclaimed scholar from the Xie family, along with his younger relatives, approached Mei Zhuyu, taunting him as a mere collateral branch of the Mei family and sneering at his position in the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs. Mei Zhuyu retorted sharply, leading Xie Loubo to accuse him of trying to charm Wu Zhen with his looks.

Mei Zhuyu warned them to mind their words, prompting an enraged Xie Loubo to order a bystander to "teach this young lord a lesson." At that critical moment, Wu Zhen appeared, firing an arrow through the air. She declared her admiration for Mei Zhuyu, asserting that he was better looking than Xie Loubo and demanding Xie apologize.

While ostensibly defending Mei Zhuyu, Wu Zhen was subtly observing the bystander Xie Loubo had ordered, recognizing him as the Bat Demon she had fought the previous night, but the demon vehemently denied this. As Mei Zhuyu prepared to leave with Mei Si, he heard breaking cups from upstairs. Concerned, he investigated, only to find Wu Zhen looking disheveled. Misunderstanding the scene, he awkwardly withdrew, assuming she had been intimate with someone.

Later that night, after escorting Mei Si home, Mei Zhuyu returned alone to the records archive. As he opened the door, a faint demonic aura emanated from the ancient scrolls, and rustling sounds indicated unseen creatures. He formed a hand seal, and a talisman shot from his sleeve, slaying the insect demon that had possessed the texts. Meanwhile, Wu Zhen entered a ruined temple, and a turn of a withered well led her to the Beast Market.

She released the Bat Demon she had captured, Fu Zhao, who revealed that he and the malevolent Fuxi were once a pair of bat-patterned earrings, one male and one female, forged in the previous dynasty and given life by human spiritual energy. He explained that Fuxi had been attacking people and stealing gold in Chang'an solely to find him, her lost other half, and he feared she would turn demonic if they were not reunited.

Wu Zhen understood that her initial guess about the demon's obsession with gold was correct, but the motive was not greed, but a desperate search. Fu Zhao further explained that he, with his keen hearing, had heard Fuxi near Ruyi Pavilion the previous night and had disguised himself as a servant to attend the banquet, hoping to persuade her to stop.

Wu Zhen, knowing that Fuxi had likely already possessed someone else and was losing control, decided she needed to find Fuxi quickly to prevent further trouble, despite her own half-demon nature leaving her powerless during the day. Seeking aid, Wu Zhen asked her deputy, Wu Zishu, to accompany her, hidden, to the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs. There, she approached Mei Zhuyu, playfully accusing him of being heartless for not comforting her about her "lost gold and silver."

When Mei Zhuyu asked for details to help, she scoffed at his perfunctory response. Commissioner Xu, eager to impress, interjected, assuring Wu Zhen that her concerns were Mei Zhuyu’s and he would ensure her satisfaction. Wu Zhen then visited Mei Zhuyu in his office within the records archive. She requested him to write her complaint, but Mei Zhuyu insisted it must be her own handwriting.

Feigning hunger and dizziness, she asked him to make her a complicated meal, a ploy for Wu Zishu to search the archives for clues to the recent cases and Fuxi's whereabouts. While Mei Zhuyu was away, Wu Zhen explored his office, playfully calling it "Lovesick Lane." When he returned, Wu Zhen accepted the complaint form he had written, acknowledging his "exception" to the rules.

She then questioned why he, a talented man, chose to work in the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, a place "with no money or prospects." Mei Zhuyu calmly responded that his only goal was to "uphold justice and protect the innocent" and "support the righteous and drive out evil," stating that "it's the same wherever you do it, as long as you do your job well."

Wu Zhen mused that he aspired to be a "true gentleman," unlike her, who lived a life of pleasure and was reviled by the people of Chang'an. She asserted that she cared little for their opinions, adding that one cannot truly judge others without understanding their hardships.

Episode 2 Recap

A fierce snow fell on a cold night as Wu Zhen found herself trapped in a dream. Years ago, a heavenly fire ravaged the city, and she, on the verge of death, was graced by a black cat. The cat's eyes burned like hellfire, granting her an extension on life at the cost of becoming half-human and half-demon, etching the title of Cat Lord into her fate.

Upon waking, Wu Zishu arrived, reporting that Fuxi had possessed Bi Tao, a dancer from Xiangsi Lane. Furthermore, Bi Tao's close friend, Zhe Liu, had recently been seen rehearsing at Ruyi Pavilion, which had drawn out Fuchao. Just then, Mei Zhuyu pushed open the door, and Wu Zishu vanished into smoke. Wu Zhen devised a plan, inviting Mei Zhuyu to accompany her to Xiangsi Lane.

Noticing his modest donkey cart, she engineered its disappearance, leaving him no choice but to ride in her elegant carriage. As they journeyed through the streets, the common folk whispered, saying the County Princess had found a new favorite, much to Mei Zhuyu’s embarrassment. At Xiangsi Lane, amidst decadent music and revelry, Gu Changhuai was enjoying himself. He deliberately put his arm around Zhe Liu, claiming her as his new companion, hoping to provoke Wu Zhen.

However, Wu Zhen paid him no mind, instead focusing on the restless Fuchao stirring within her sachet. Working together, Wu Zhen and Wu Zishu extracted Fuxi from Zhe Liu’s body. Suddenly, black mist surged and demonic energy permeated the hall, trapping the guests in a frenzied illusion surrounded by bats. Mei Zhuyu, recognizing the deception, dispelled the illusion using demon-banishing techniques. As he left Xiangsi Lane, he saw a tabby cat fall from the rafters.

A servant was about to scare the cat away with a stone when Wu Zishu appeared, stopping him and cradling the cat. Wu Zishu, aware of Mei Zhuyu's childhood aversion to cats, chuckled softly, noting that the feline would surely be saddened by the revelation. At the Beast Market, flickering ghostly flames illuminated Fuxi's gradual recovery. Fuchao, burdened by guilt over Fuxi's demonic transformation, apologized and explained the circumstances.

Wu Zhen offered guidance, telling them that in this world, walking alone possesses its own freedom, and companionship its own warmth; there is no need to be distraught by separation. Fuxi seemed to gain understanding, finally bowing in gratitude to Wu Zhen. Fuxi then recalled her first arrival in Chang’an, where she, in her true bat form, was found by a Xiangsi Lane dancer. The dancer, noticing she was damaged, took her to a jewelry workshop in the city.

There, Fuxi sensed a malevolent aura emanating from a secret compartment containing a blood-red stone. This evil presence corroded her spirit, gradually leading her into demonry. Upon hearing this, Wu Zishu's expression turned grim, and he declared the object to be a "Vengeful Spirit Bone," formed from the remains of a deeply resentful person. He warned that its presence could drive both humans and demons to madness. Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu entered his old Mei family home.

Cobwebs draped the dilapidated walls, yet his parents' memorial tablets remained spotless, stirring a flood of memories. He recalled waiting with his mother for his father to return, a return that never came as his father died in a heavenly fire. Later, a master from Changxi Palace took Mei Zhuyu as a disciple, revealing that the fire was not a natural disaster but the work of demons.

Now, Mei Zhuyu had joined the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, determined to uncover the truth and avenge his parents. Inside the palace, an eunuch reported to Empress Wu and Consort Mei that Wu Zhen had taken a liking to a young gentleman. Empress Wu, initially surprised, beamed upon seeing Mei Zhuyu's portrait. However, her joy turned to anger when she learned he worked for the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs.

She dismissed him as a mere "freeloader" relying on his looks and declared that such a minor official dared not cling to a County Princess, immediately ordering him to be taught a lesson. Wu Zhen, hearing the news, stormed into the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs.

Disregarding her own reputation, she caused a public scene, loudly declaring that Mei Zhuyu had no interest in her and that they would have nothing further to do with each other, all to protect him from the Empress's wrath. On her way back to her residence, Wu Zhen coincidentally met Liu Taizhen.

Though they appeared to be rivals, they were, in fact, the two rulers of the Beast Market: Wu Zhen as the Cat Lord and Liu Taizhen as the Snake Lord. Liu Taizhen, despite her long absence from Chang’an, was aware of the recent reappearance of demon hunters. She expressed concern that if the Changxi Palace cultivators were to resurface, it would inevitably lead to widespread conflict. Later that night, the jewelry workshop owner was drawn by a strange sound.

As he examined the Vengeful Spirit Bone in his hands, he turned to see all the pearls and jade in the room floating suspended in mid-air without any wind. Terrified, he fainted on the spot. The next day, the disoriented owner stumbled into the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs to report the incident. Xu Luan, the director, scoffed at his claims, convinced the owner was merely fabricating a supernatural tale to leverage the Bureau’s reputation for his business.

Mei Si, upon learning of his fiancée Liu Taizhen’s return to the capital, excitedly rushed to Yuzhen Workshop. Liu Taizhen, however, made an excuse to avoid him, leaving Wu Zhen to manage the situation. A commotion erupted downstairs as Xie Loubo began to mock Mei Zhuyu. Wu Zhen once again stepped in to defend Mei Zhuyu, dramatically splashing a basin of fragrant water into the crowd, causing a stir among the onlookers.

Episode 3 Recap

Wu Zhen stared coldly at Xie Loubo, accusing him of being a vulgar lowlife who bullied the weak. Xie Loubo responded by asking what she was doing. Wu Zhen claimed she had missed him and invited him to try incense, but then clarified she simply wanted to humiliate him. She further exposed his hypocrisy, stating he flaunted his family name and only cared for trivial matters, unlike a true scholar or gentleman who teaches, helps society, or acts chivalrously.

Wu Zhen, who accepted her own reputation as spoiled and unruly, asserted that Xie Loubo, despite his outward appearance, was worthless. When Manager Lingxiao was told to put Xie Loubo’s incense mist on Wu Zhen's tab, she agreed, implying that Xie Loubo's family had cut off his allowance and he couldn't pay his own bill. Xie Loubo, angered, stated he didn't need her to pay, prompting Wu Zhen to insist he pay himself. Shamed, Xie Loubo left.

After Xie Loubo's departure, Mei Si confided in Mei Zhuyu about Wu Zhen's unusual personality, which he believed stemmed from a tragedy eighteen years prior. He recounted the Great Fire of Chang'an, during which Wu Zhen got lost and was found unconscious, remaining comatose for three months, with her family even preparing for her funeral. Upon waking, her personality changed dramatically, becoming audacious and unruly.

The Wu family, overjoyed at her survival, spoiled her excessively, with only her elder sister daring to reprimand her. Mei Si advised Mei Zhuyu to be careful with Wu Zhen, warning he might not be able to handle her. Mei Si then mentioned that Minister Liu, Lady Liu's father, was hosting a Shao Wei Banquet soon and suggested Mei Zhuyu attend as the Mei family's representative.

Mei Zhuyu declined, stating he had more important matters, specifically the search for the Wu Hua Gu, a strange object that had caused a bat demon disturbance, with Wu Zishu assisting in the search. Noticing the late hour, Mei Zhuyu announced he needed to leave as the sun had set, having agreed to help a shop manager investigate a case. That night, Mei Zhuyu arrived at the jewelry workshop, introducing himself as Mei Zhuyu from the Xuanjian Bureau.

The nervous manager, who had reported a strange incident, explained that he had heard a voice while sleeping and that the "monster" only appeared after sunset. Unbeknownst to Mei Zhuyu, Wu Zhen was already inside, having secretly entered earlier to investigate the floating jewels and the Wu Hua Gu. She managed to evade Mei Zhuyu's notice by hiding multiple times in the shadows. As Mei Zhuyu approached, the manager suddenly screamed, claiming a monster had attacked him.

Mei Zhuyu saw a tabby cat leap out and disappear into the night. When the manager asked if the "monster" had escaped, he expressed relief upon hearing it was gone. He then became anxious about his valuable possessions, particularly a lamp meant as a gift for Minister Liu’s Shao Wei Banquet, fearing Mei Zhuyu might have damaged them and couldn't afford the compensation. Wu Zhen was still frustrated about not having found the Wu Hua Gu.

Wu Zishu, however, reassured her, stating that the Wu Hua Gu, despite its inert appearance, was cunning and would inevitably resurface to cause mischief, making its eventual discovery certain. Wu Zishu then presented Wu Zhen with a new medicine, an ancient, lost recipe designed to help her transform fully into a demon. After Wu Zhen took it, cat ears sprouted from her head, causing her concern about being discovered, though Wu Zishu found them rather appealing.

Fortunately, the ears eventually receded, and Wu Zhen was relieved to return to her normal appearance. Later that night, returning home, Wu Zhen found her father, Wu Chundao, playing the role of a celestial master. Wu Chundao, asserting himself as an outer disciple of Changxi Palace—a claim Wu Zhen scoffed at, reminding him the palace had closed long ago—insisted on his mystical pursuits.

Wu Zhen also voiced her frustration about her elder sister's strictness, lamenting that as an unwed woman, her mere presence at home seemed to offend her sister daily. Wu Chundao acknowledged his elder daughter's severity but assured Wu Zhen of her sister's underlying affection. He then revealed that Liu Gongshen had been promoted to Minister of Personnel and requested Wu Zhen attend the upcoming Shao Wei Banquet on his behalf, as he had retired from public office.

Wu Chundao also presented Wu Zhen with a "mosquito-repelling charm pot" he had acquired, which Wu Zhen, dismayed by his habit of collecting seemingly useless items, dismissed as "junk" turning their home into a "junkyard," though her father insisted it was a "rare treasure." After much pleading from Wu Chundao, Wu Zhen reluctantly agreed to attend the banquet.

The next morning, at the jewelry workshop, Xie Loubo arrived to collect a specially crafted glazed lantern intended for Liu Gongshen's Shao Wei Banquet. Noticing a missing gem, he instructed a craftsman to inlay the Wu Hua Gu in its place. As the lamp was lit, its beautiful design was illuminated, projecting the figure of a woman onto the wall. The craftsmen marveled at the lifelike quality of the painted figure.

Suddenly, one craftsman cried out that the shadow had turned its head, but the other dismissed it as foolish talk, urging him to quickly wrap the lantern. On the day of the Shao Wei Banquet, Mei Zhuyu accompanied Mei Si to the Liu residence. Mei Si somberly recounted his last visit five years prior, when he had proposed to Lady Liu.

He remembered her looking at him with the same smile she had when their families arranged their childhood betrothal, saying "good," only to follow it with a harsh "Get out." She had since returned all his gifts and forbade him from coming within thirty feet of the residence, threatening to set dogs on him.

Upon their arrival, they were immediately subjected to ridicule from various nobles who mocked Mei Zhuyu’s humble donkey cart and maliciously alluded to rumors of Wu Zhen’s "favor" towards him. As their laughter filled the air, the clear ringing of imperial bells heralded the arrival of Wu Zhen's magnificent carriage. Wu Zhen emerged, her eyes briefly meeting Mei Zhuyu's.

She offered a sarcastic apology to the crowd for startling them with her grand carriage, dryly remarking that she preferred Mei Zhuyu’s "delicate and charming" little donkey cart. She then subtly assured Mei Zhuyu, "Don’t worry. With me here, I won’t let anyone else’s dog bite you," effectively silencing his tormentors. During the banquet, Wu Zhen's servants presented gifts from her father. Among them, a painting was unrolled to reveal a portrait of Liu Taizhen.

Wu Zhen immediately recognized it as Mei Si's work but said nothing publicly, while Liu Taizhen accepted the portrait with composure. Mei Zhuyu then presented his own gift, a simple, ancient inkstone. Minister Liu accepted it graciously, praising its durable quality and comparing Mei Zhuyu to it. Xie Loubo, however, scoffed at the offering.

Mei Zhuyu then confronted Xie Loubo, echoing Wu Zhen's earlier words by warning him and others to refrain from commenting on her possessions, and by extension, him. Prompted to present his own gift, Xie Loubo unveiled the intricately crafted glazed lantern, which he claimed to have made especially for Lady Liu. Guests admired its exquisite detail, noting the embedded Wu Hua Gu was glowing with a strange light, which Wu Zhen, Liu Taizhen, and Mei Zhuyu all noticed.

Xie Loubo proudly pointed out that the woman depicted on the lamp was Lady Liu herself, and recited a poem he had inscribed. The attendees praised his poetic talent. Mei Zhuyu then subtly asked Wu Zhen if she was looking for the mysterious object. Acknowledging this, Wu Zhen attributed her unusual calm regarding supernatural phenomena to her "family traditions" and her father's long-standing obsession with celestial master arts.

Mei Zhuyu explained that he had read about shadow demons and believed one might be present. Wu Zhen then produced the "demon-repelling charm pot" from her father. Mei Zhuyu proposed a strategy: extinguish all the candles to force the shadow demon out, then reignite them to pinpoint its location. Wu Zhen agreed to assist him. Wu Zhen and Mei Zhuyu, having tacitly acknowledged each other's ability to perceive evil spirits, discreetly left the main hall.

Realizing the shadow demon was cleverly hidden among the candle shadows, they implemented Mei Zhuyu's plan and split up. They moved swiftly through the corridors, extinguishing the candles and plunging the main hall into darkness. As predicted, a ghostly shadow darted from the lantern, racing towards a side room where gifts were piled. Guests reacted with panic as the lights went out.

In the side room, Mei Si was engrossed in drawing a portrait of Liu Taizhen when the shadow demon attacked, wrapping itself around his neck. At the critical moment, Liu Taizhen revealed her true form, enveloped in a radiant white light, to fend off the demon. Before losing consciousness, Mei Si vaguely perceived her as a mystical, almost demonic, figure. Liu Taizhen then entrusted the unconscious Mei Si to Wu Zhen.

Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu entered the side room alone and successfully subdued the shadow demon, trapping it within the glazed lantern. As he did so, he noticed the glowing Wu Hua Gu embedded in the lantern's casing and discreetly took it. Wu Zhen quickly followed, and Mei Zhuyu, appearing calm, simply handed her the now-normal glazed lantern, stating he had only found Xie Loubo's lamp.

Taking the lantern, Wu Zhen examined the inscribed poem and noticed that its style was vastly different from Xie Loubo's usual work, leading her to conclude that the poem was not written by him.

Episode 4 Recap

At the Liu residence, servants shrieked about a ghost, drawing Minister Liu Gongshen and his guests to the side hall. There, they discovered Wu Zhen and Mei Zhuyu alone. Their initial fright over the supposed haunting quickly turned into whispers and gossip about the pair’s private meeting, with some speculating that Mei Zhuyu had once again won the County Princess’s favor. Liu Gongshen tried to dismiss the incident, reassuring everyone that such strange occurrences were impossible in the capital.

Meanwhile, Liu Taizhen, carrying a Glazed Lantern, went to a pavilion. She had learned from Wu Zhen that the shadow demon she sought was connected to the lantern and had brought Xie Loubo to meet it. Xie Loubo arrived, expecting a pleasant encounter with Liu Taizhen, but as the lantern light flickered, the figure of Yun Yi, the shadow demon, gradually materialized.

Liu Taizhen, setting the stage, praised a poetry collection Xie Loubo had sent her, then pointedly remarked that she heard it wasn't actually written by him. When Xie Loubo denied it, Yun Yi stepped forward, revealing herself and crying out, "It was me!" Xie Loubo was terrified, mistaking her for a ghost, but Liu Taizhen clarified that Xie Loubo himself had brought Yun Yi there. Yun Yi recounted her tragic story.

Years ago, she was a renowned poet at a Chang'an music house, born from a century-old lantern’s shadow, though with weak demonic powers. She cherished human culture and poetry, believing herself to be human. She met Xie Loubo, a talented scholar, and was captivated by him. She entrusted him with her life’s poems and savings, hoping he would help publish them.

However, Xie Loubo plagiarized her work, publishing it under his own name to gain fame while dismissing her original poems as “immature and mediocre” when she inquired. When Yun Yi confronted him, he cruelly humiliated her, even spreading lies that she had tried to force him into marriage and then committed suicide out of spite. Despairing, Yun Yi's soul merged with the Glazed Lantern, her physical form fading.

She had re-emerged only because the lantern was re-lit, to seek justice for his deceit. Upon the truth’s revelation, Xie Loubo, horrified, began screaming, "I won't plagiarize anymore!" as he stumbled away, oblivious to Wu Zhen and Mei Zhuyu approaching. Liu Taizhen restrained Yun Yi from pursuing him, explaining that taking his life would only validate his false claims of being harmed by evil spirits.

Just as Wu Zhen believed, true retribution lay in exposing his misdeeds to the world, letting him suffer public disgrace and witness the collapse of his stolen reputation. Yun Yi conceded, accepting this outcome. Knowing her time was short, as she had only lingered due to the Immortal Bone, Yun Yi wept, lamenting that despite her yearning for human warmth, she found only "hearts as cold as frost."

She expressed that her life experience was enough, and with that, she faded away, leaving only the dim Glazed Lantern. Wu Zhen and Mei Zhuyu arrived just as her last essence vanished. News of Xie Loubo's plagiarism and his role in Yun Yi's demise spread like wildfire throughout Chang'an, embellished by storytellers. Outraged citizens pelted his residence with rotten eggs and vegetables. Unable to bear the public's scorn, Xie Loubo descended into madness, becoming a public laughingstock.

Empress Wu, impressed by Mei Zhuyu's impartial and compassionate conduct in the Yun Yi affair, summoned Wu Zhen to the palace. Before the Emperor, the Empress lavishly praised Mei Zhuyu, noting his extraordinary character and suggesting Wu Zhen deepen her relationship with him.

The Emperor, who typically indulged his wife, privately advised Wu Zhen to consider marriage carefully, citing his own experiences and warning that despite initial affection, married life involved mundane trivialities that could wear down even the strongest feelings. Still, Wu Zhen was troubled by the unknown whereabouts of the Immortal Bone. The Four Elders of the Beast Market, led by Elder Grey, confronted Wu Zhen, angrily questioning her negligence and reminding her of past incidents.

Wu Zhen calmly accepted a five-day deadline to retrieve the Immortal Bone, placating them for the moment. Wu Zishu, displeased with Elder Grey's overbearing attitude toward Wu Zhen, privately warned the elder. Liu Taizhen, while searching for the Immortal Bone, found no traces of it anywhere except, she suspected, with Mei Zhuyu. Using this as an excuse, Wu Zhen began to frequently visit Mei Zhuyu's residence.

His young attendant, Wenhua, diligently prepared food and wine for her visits, which Mei Zhuyu initially found inappropriate, fearing for Wu Zhen's reputation. Wu Zhen, however, simply stated her own reputation was already "not good" and couldn't get worse. She even climbed over his wall to get in. Mei Si, hearing of Wu Zhen’s frequent visits, came to gossip. Wu Zhen openly confessed her admiration for Mei Zhuyu’s character, praising his integrity.

She noted that he never pandered to the powerful, flattered superiors, or tried to please her because of her status as County Princess, nor was he easily swayed by her challenges. Wu Zhen confided that she saw Mei Zhuyu as a solitary creature, bravely upholding his beliefs in "punishing evil and bringing peace to the good" in a world that didn't quite fit him. She found such an upright and noble gentleman captivating.

Mei Si was stunned, realizing Wu Zhen was as deeply smitten as he was, unaware that Mei Zhuyu, standing just outside the door, had overheard their entire conversation. The next morning, Mei Si, armed with demon-dispelling charms, burst into the Liu residence, declaring he was there to protect Liu Taizhen from demons. Her servants tried to stop him, and in the ensuing struggle, he accidentally threw his demon-dispelling bell, striking Liu Taizhen's hair.

Her eyes immediately turned cold, and she ordered her fierce dogs released, sending Mei Si fleeing in panic. Meanwhile, Wu Zhen confirmed with Wu Zishu and Hu Zhu that the Immortal Bone was indeed on Mei Zhuyu. Hu Zhu suggested knocking Mei Zhuyu unconscious to retrieve it, but Wu Zhen objected, citing his affiliation with the Mystical Judgment Bureau and his cautious nature. Wu Zishu assured her that he would handle any repercussions from the Four Elders.

Observing Wu Zishu preparing a medicinal bath gave Wu Zhen an idea. She planned to retrieve the Immortal Bone by sneaking into Mei Zhuyu's chambers while he was bathing, but as she attempted to do so, she accidentally made a noise, alerting him.

Episode 5 Recap

Mei Zhuyu, hearing a noise, coldly demanded, "Who?" Wenhua, who had just entered, reassured him, "Master, what's wrong?" Mei Zhuyu dismissed it, saying, "It's nothing, perhaps I misheard." He then told Wenhua to wait outside. Wu Zhen, who had already transformed into a tabby cat, leapt onto his desk, and Mei Zhuyu uncharacteristically picked her up and held her close.

Later that night, Mei Zhuyu buried what he believed to be the Undying Bone, sealing it with a spell, unaware that Wu Zhen had already swapped it. Wu Zhen returned to the Beast Market with the true Undying Bone. Together with the elders, she cast a spell to destroy it. However, the moment the bone shattered, a chilling killing qi emanated, shocking everyone. They realized it was not an ordinary Undying Bone but the remains of the Evil Demon Infant.

Eighteen years prior, the Evil Demon Infant had single-handedly invaded Chang'an, causing widespread chaos and nearly overthrowing the Beast Market. The previous Lord Cat had sacrificed his life and soul to eradicate it. The reappearance of its remnants meant the Evil Demon Infant might return, putting the entire Beast Market in dire peril. Meanwhile, a lone woodsman encountered a thick fog while walking in the mountains.

Through the haze, he saw an old woman by the roadside, whom he recognized as his long-deceased mother. Overwhelmed with joy and sorrow, he knelt, tearfully recounting his longing, oblivious to the sinister smile that touched the old woman's lips. The old woman's form gradually shifted, transforming into a beautiful young woman named Shan Posuo, who swiftly drained the woodsman's vital essence. Shan Posuo reflected on how easily mortals are fooled, lamenting the scarcity of people in her current location.

She mused that if she could enter Chang'an, she could cultivate and indulge as she pleased, finding great delight in it. Over several days, six cases of villagers disappearing in Chang'an's western outskirts caused widespread concern. Mei Zhuyu noticed the abnormality and wished to investigate personally, but Xu Luan had already dispatched his deputy officials.

These officials struggled along the arduous mountain path, complaining about the difficulty and their superior, Xu Luan, not taking the matter seriously, having sent them merely "to go through the motions." They speculated that the villagers were either lost or had eaten poisonous mushrooms, causing hallucinations. Suddenly, a dense fog enveloped them, and the mountain path seemed to twist, clearly indicating Shan Posuo's illusionary spell, drawing them into her trap.

Three missing villagers stumbled out of the mist, their faces ashen, eyes cloudy, snarling as they lunged at the officials. Shan Posuo, hidden behind trees, was about to claim her prey but was infuriated when a Rat Spirit intervened. The Rat Spirit warned Shan Posuo that such ostentatious hunting would surely attract the two Lords of the Beast Market. Seeing Shan Posuo's hesitation, the Rat Spirit asserted that by helping her, he was also helping himself.

Mei Zhuyu meticulously reviewed all the case files in the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs archives but found no record of the "Heavenly Fire" incident from eighteen years ago. He questioned Xu Luan about the missing file. Xu Luan vaguely replied that the relevant documents had been taken by the palace, explaining that even he, as the Chief Inspector, could only apply monthly to the palace records chamber to review them.

Just then, villagers from the western outskirts converged on Minister Liu Gongshen's residence, kneeling and begging him to intervene. Minister Liu publicly questioned Xu Luan regarding the matter. However, the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs and the Capital Prefecture began to blame each other, neither willing to take on the troublesome case. With the crowd of villagers outside growing agitated and the situation nearly spiraling out of control, Mei Zhuyu stepped forward from the throng.

He clasped his hands and requested permission to investigate the western outskirts case himself. Minister Liu immediately granted his request. From the shadows beneath the eaves, Wu Zhen and Liu Taizhen watched from a carriage, exchanging a meaningful glance. Following this, Wu Zhen and Liu Taizhen returned to the Beast Market. Zhu Ying, Lord Snake's deputy, reported that lightning-struck wood, the only way to neutralize the Undying Bone's killing qi, was located in a cave in the western outskirts.

Wu Zishu elaborated that ordinary demons could not approach it, but Wu Zhen, as a half-demon, could approach it in her human form during the day. Wu Zhen immediately decided to go to the western outskirts herself the following day to retrieve the wood. Mei Zhuyu carefully counted his salary and the reward money from his cases, storing them securely in a box. He planned to propose to Wu Zhen in two days.

He realized the muddy, narrow path to his door and the dilapidated donkey shed were not suitable for Wu Zhen's arrival. Thus, he instructed Wenhua to hire people to pave the path and demolish the donkey shed, to which Wenhua reluctantly agreed, noting that while Mei Zhuyu was poor, Wu Zhen was wealthy, making them a suitable match. Empress Wu, concerned for her sister Wu Zhen's safety, dispatched Jinwu Guards Huai'an and Linyuan to escort her.

Though Wu Zhen found their presence superfluous, she did not refuse, heading directly to the western outskirts with them. Upon their arrival, Mei Zhuyu was surrounded by angry villagers questioning him. Seeing him alone and simply dressed, they assumed the authorities were merely placating them. Wu Zhen immediately declared her identity as County Princess Qinghe of the Duke Wu's residence, her regal bearing causing the villagers to retreat in awe, finally believing that the court was genuinely investigating the case.

As they entered the mountains, Mei Zhuyu led a donkey while Wu Zhen rode it, creating a harmonious scene. Wu Zhen told Mei Zhuyu she had informed her sister that she went because she was worried about his delicate health, which she claimed would not last an hour in the mountains. Elder Ash again sought out Wu Zhen, intending to report the disappearance of a rat demon. Wu Zishu coldly intercepted him, stating he would personally investigate the matter.

Elder Ash hinted that Wu Zishu should not let "blind loyalty" hinder his demonic cultivation, reminding him that Wu Zhen was, after all, only half-demon. After Elder Ash departed, Wu Zishu entered a secret chamber. He had already planned to extract a demon core to accelerate Wu Zhen's full demonic transformation. To prevent Elder Ash's suspicion, he summarily threw the rat demon into a cauldron, silencing it permanently.

Wu Zhen and Mei Zhuyu continued their journey up the mountain, where a gray miasma permeated the forest, accompanied by a faint, putrid smell. Mei Zhuyu thought it was ordinary fog, but Wu Zhen immediately recognized it as Shan Posuo's illusion. She promptly gave Mei Zhuyu a silk veil to cover his face. They bypassed the miasma, taking an alternate route into the mountains. Wu Zhen accidentally twisted her ankle, and Mei Zhuyu, without a word, carried her on his back as colorful butterflies fluttered around their intertwined figures.

Episode 6 Recap

Elder Gray secretly released a rat demon, intending to use it to stir chaos in the Demon Market. Ling Xiao, Deputy to the Serpent Lord, coincidentally witnessed Elder Gray casting a spell on the demon's forehead and immediately reported it to Wu Zishu. Wu Zishu realized Elder Gray had used a forbidden technique known as the Soul-Walking Technique, understanding that this was a diversion to target Wu Zhen.

Meanwhile, Shan Posuo, under Elder Gray's secret orders, set up a demon array around the Thunderstruck Wood. She was confident that Wu Zhen, in her vulnerable mortal form during the day, would be no match for the array's malevolence, even with Mei Zhuyu accompanying her. The rat demon promised Shan Posuo free reign to hunt in the western outskirts if he succeeded in taking over as the Cat Lord.

Wu Zhen feigned hunger to send Mei Zhuyu away, intending to investigate the Thunderstruck Wood alone. To her surprise, Mei Zhuyu returned with a rabbit, which annoyed Wu Zhen. She complained that not only did he dislike cats, but he also wouldn't spare such a cute rabbit. Wu Zhen then playfully grabbed his wrist, forcing his hand over the rabbit's soft fur before unexpectedly releasing it.

Wu Zishu tracked Shan Posuo to the western outskirts and intercepted her, demanding to know the rat demon's whereabouts. Shan Posuo smirked and refused to answer, instead casting a soul-capturing spell that conjured an illusion. The illusion depicted intimate scenes of Wu Zishu and Wu Zhen. At the same time, Wu Zhen, who was searching for the Thunderstruck Wood alone, became trapped in the demon array.

Fortunately, Mei Zhuyu appeared just in time, cutting through the array with his sword, which greatly annoyed Shan Posuo as she had underestimated him. After the ordeal, Mei Zhuyu bandaged Wu Zhen's injuries. Noticing lingering demonic energy in the forest, he excused himself to fetch water. Wu Zhen, also sensing the danger, worried for Mei Zhuyu's safety and quickly followed him.

As Mei Zhuyu entered a dense part of the forest, an illusory "Wu Zhen" appeared behind him, smiling and asking him to pick a flower. He plucked a fresh flower and tucked it into "Wu Zhen's" hair, allowing the illusion to attempt to bewitch him. Just as it leaned in close, he abruptly opened his eyes and pushed it away, revealing his awareness of the deception.

Meanwhile, the real Wu Zhen stumbled through the dense forest, repeatedly calling Mei Zhuyu's name. Suddenly, Mei Zhuyu appeared from the mist. As she stepped forward, he blocked her path with his sword. At that moment, another "Wu Zhen" appeared, identical in appearance and clothing to the first. Mei Zhuyu's gaze shifted between the two, and he ultimately plunged his dagger into the shoulder of the fake Wu Zhen. The illusion shattered, revealing Shan Posuo.

Seeing Shan Posuo's repeated failures, the rat demon was thoroughly disappointed. He coldly warned Shan Posuo to leave immediately, or her life would be in peril. Just as the rat demon prepared to return to the Demon Market, Wu Zishu appeared, trapping the rat demon and simultaneously inflicting heavy damage on Elder Gray's divine consciousness, which had been attached to the rat demon. This devastating blow destroyed Elder Gray's century of cultivation.

Mei Zhuyu, his face pale and lips bruised, collapsed under a tree; the miasma had already invaded his heart meridians. Seeing his condition, Wu Zhen pressed her lips to his, slowly drawing out the poisonous gas. Wu Zishu, saddened by the sight, then departed. With the Thunderstruck Wood now in hand, Wu Zhen asked Wu Zishu when they could destroy the Indestructible Bone Demon.

Wu Zishu explained that while the wood had the power to dispel evil, the Indestructible Bone Demon was formidable and required channeling heavenly thunder into the wood before it could be completely shattered. He advised Wu Zhen to recover from her internal injuries before the heavenly thunder arrived and offered to prepare medicine.

Wu Zhen then asked Wu Zishu to cover for her, expressing her concern about Shan Posuo, intending to return to the western outskirts to deal with her without Wu Zishu's nagging. Under the cover of night, Mei Si crawled through a dog hole in the back wall of the Liu Manor. Before he could even brush off the dirt, he looked up to find Liu Taizhen standing before him, her gaze as cold as frost.

Since the day he glimpsed a white serpent phantom before losing consciousness, Mei Si had been convinced that the Liu Manor harbored a demon and feared for Liu Taizhen's life. Seeing Mei Si's persistence, Liu Taizhen, in an attempt to shake off his entanglement, lied, telling him that to solve the mystery of the demon, he should investigate westward to find a special herb.

Mei Si followed her instructions and headed west, only to encounter Wu Zhen's group returning to the city. Upon hearing that Liu Taizhen had pointed him in this direction, Wu Zhen immediately understood that the foolish man had been tricked again. She ordered her attendants to escort Mei Si back to Chang'an. As the group reached the city gates of Chang'an, Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen bid each other farewell. Mei Zhuyu turned back towards the western outskirts alone.

Wu Zhen, believing that Shan Posuo was still at large and would continue to harm people, decided that the matter could not be left unresolved and personally returned to the western outskirts as well. At that moment, Mei Zhuyu, utilizing his Celestial Master techniques, heavily wounded Shan Posuo. The demon pleaded for her life, offering to reveal Wu Zhen's secret in exchange for survival. However, Mei Zhuyu chose to keep the secret sealed, along with Shan Posuo's life, and decisively slew her with his sword.

Episode 7 Recap

Wu Zhen deftly transformed into a cat and quickly rushed back to the suburban woods, only to be startled to find Shan Posuo had died under an extremely powerful magic spell. This mysterious magic made her intensely curious about the caster, secretly wondering who this formidable person could be. Meanwhile, during his cultivation, Mei Zhuyu kept unintentionally recalling Wu Zhen kissing him. This scene made him feel ashamed of his master's earnest teachings and too embarrassed to face Wu Zhen.

Thus, he strived to calm his mind, doing his utmost to focus on his cultivation. In the bustling Beast Market, Elder Grey was nonchalantly admiring a mural, as if nothing concerned him. Wu Zhen came to question him, but he vehemently denied being in the western suburban woods, even looking down on Wu Zhen, who was half-human and half-demon, and showing no respect for Master Cat. At this moment, various demons appeared one after another.

Ling Xiao immediately pointed out that he had seen Elder Grey use the Soul Wandering Technique yesterday. However, this technique causes extreme and highly detrimental damage to the body. Everyone suspected that Elder Grey would never joke with his own life. So, Wu Zhen revealed her Streamer Whip, which could accurately detect if his divine consciousness had left his body. Elder Grey tried to escape but was promptly and skillfully trapped by Master Cat.

Wu Zhen whipped Elder Grey in front of all the demons, forcing him to confess his various crimes. Afterward, she imprisoned him in the Beast Prison to uphold justice in the Beast Market. Wu Zishu stormed into the Beast Prison, intending to torment Elder Grey daily to vent his hatred.

At this point, Elder Grey reluctantly revealed the truth: he only wanted to seize the thunder-struck wood to preserve the Vengeful spirit bone, but he did not disclose the true purpose of preserving the Vengeful spirit bone. At the same time, he also firmly believed that although Wu Zishu arrived at the Beast Market like a blank slate, he naturally had his own selfish desires.

The next day, in a fit of rage, Liu Taizhen tied up Mei Si because he had repeatedly come to the Liu Manor to eliminate snake demons, causing her too much distress, so she simply tied him up. Wu Zhen, hearing that something had happened in the village again, was filled with anxiety and quickly rushed there, coincidentally encountering Mei Zhuyu. Three people in the village were again afflicted by miasma, unconscious and in critical condition.

Suddenly, a woman's scream came from afar; it turned out to be a pervert peeking at their bodies. Wu Zhen quickly entered the house to apprehend the person, but Mei Zhuyu recognized the person in front of them as Shuang Jiang. Shuang Jiang hastily explained that he was a Celestial Master from Changxi Palace, but Wu Zhen did not believe that Changxi Palace, which had disappeared for a hundred years, still had a successor.

Shuang Jiang further explained that he had gotten lost on the mountain earlier and had intended to take off his clothes to cool down but unfortunately rolled down the mountain and was mistaken for a pervert by these women. To prove his identity, Shuang Jiang took out a magic artifact, stating that it could extract the miasma from the villagers' bodies.

Little did he know, Mei Zhuyu, hidden in the shadows, noticed that Shuang Jiang had placed the incense burner incorrectly, fearing that the spell would be unsuccessful. Finally, unable to bear his low-level magic anymore, Mei Zhuyu secretly helped cast the spell, and the unconscious villagers were finally revived. Afterward, the villagers expressed their gratitude to Shuang Jiang for saving their lives. It was only then that Wu Zhen noticed Mei Zhuyu had disappeared.

It turned out that Mei Zhuyu was worried about being recognized by Shuang Jiang, which would expose his true identity, so he avoided Shuang Jiang. Wu Zhen enthusiastically invited Shuang Jiang to join them. Shuang Jiang happily boarded the carriage but unexpectedly came face-to-face with Mei Zhuyu. Mei Zhuyu preemptively called out, "Eleventh Junior Brother," and Shuang Jiang, understanding from his gaze, had no choice but to implicitly acknowledge this relationship.

Mei Zhuyu explained that he and Shuang Jiang were from the same hometown, using this to cover up their past. After Mei Zhuyu and Shuang Jiang arrived in the capital city, they quickly departed, which made Wu Zhen feel that Mei Zhuyu was somewhat strange this time, seemingly deliberately hiding something.

That night, Shuang Jiang informed Mei Zhuyu that ever since his First Senior Brother became the sect leader, he could no longer endure the hardships of the assessments, so he came down the mountain to seek refuge with him. Mei Zhuyu was willing to take him in but laid down three rules: they must address each other as fellow disciples and he must not reveal his connection to Changxi Palace to avoid unnecessary trouble.

The next day, Shuang Jiang discovered there was another person at home and immediately became alert, drawing his sword. The house servant Wenhua mistakenly thought a thief had broken in, and the two almost came to blows, leading to a misunderstanding. Shuang Jiang had eagerly anticipated breakfast, but seeing no meat, he was inevitably a little disappointed. At this moment, Mei Zhuyu saw a dossier and immediately hurried away to earn money to buy meat for Shuang Jiang.

Mei Zhuyu returned to the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs with the closed case dossier of the western suburban woods. Minister Liu intended to offer words of commendation. Unexpectedly, Mei Zhuyu immediately asked to take over the position of Commissioner, which made Commissioner Xu, who was standing nearby, extremely awkward, his face turning very unpleasant.

Episode 8 Recap

Shuang Jiang, finding no meat in the house and knowing his senior martial brother’s frugal nature, set up a fortune-telling stall on the street. However, his efforts were in vain; from morning till dusk, passersby hurried on, and not a single person stopped. Just as Shuang Jiang’s stomach rumbled with hunger, he caught a whiff of rich meat.

Hu Zhu appeared before him, holding a chicken leg, and led him to a dilapidated ancestral hall in the east of the city. She explained she had come specifically to find him, claiming that strange noises emanated from the hall at night and asking him to banish a demon. Shuang Jiang surveyed the ruined ancestral hall, observing wild cats scurrying among the crumbling walls and dense cobwebs near the dry well, indicating clear abnormalities.

Yet, he detected no unusual signs, instead advising Hu Zhu not to be overly suspicious. Hu Zhu provocatively suggested she might be a demon herself, but Shuang Jiang scoffed, producing his ritual tools and declaring that all demons were hideous. Offended, Hu Zhu secretly cast a spell, causing a rotten eave beam to break and fall. Luckily, the beam unexpectedly crashed towards Hu Zhu, and Shuang Jiang, seeing the danger, selflessly pulled her to safety.

This act softened Hu Zhu's anger, replacing it with a subtle flutter in her heart. Just then, the Prayer Mat Demon materialized as a playful child, gleefully running circles around Shuang Jiang. Shuang Jiang fumbled with his ritual tools, yet was unable to even graze the child's clothes. As he frantically flipped through "Records of Demons" to find the Prayer Mat Demon’s weakness, the child vanished. Hu Zhu clapped her hands, praising his "skillful" demon-slaying.

Mei Zhuyu, having heard Shuang Jiang had ventured into the abandoned hall and fearing for his safety, rushed to the location. Upon entering, he found Wu Zhen standing in the corridor. Their eyes met. Wu Zhen raised an eyebrow, questioning him, but Mei Zhuyu's answers were evasive. He only admitted his own faults, carefully avoiding any mention of their past intimate encounter.

Wu Zhen, observing his troubled expression, mistakenly assumed he was worried about his career path and gently consoled him, advising him not to mind worldly opinions and to remain true to himself. These words warmed Mei Zhuyu’s usually distant heart. No sooner had she finished speaking than Shuang Jiang excitedly ran up to Mei Zhuyu, proudly gesturing about his supposed demon capture, his eyes brimming with self-satisfaction.

Mei Zhuyu, well aware of his junior brother's nature, promptly apologized to Wu Zhen and Hu Zhu for Shuang Jiang's recklessness, explaining his cousin's "deficiencies." He then pulled Shuang Jiang by his sleeve and hurried away. As they departed, Shuang Jiang continued to boast about his supposed prowess, claiming the demon was small but strong, and that he had nearly been hurt, but his agility saved him, further emphasizing his own skill.

Once the two had left, Wu Zhen returned to the ruined hall. Wu Zishu used his magic to trap the Prayer Mat Demon, demanding to know why it had gathered so many cats. The demon, initially resistant, gave in when Wu Zishu threatened to eat him. It explained that it was once a prayer mat in a bustling temple where many people came to pray.

But after a Guanyin Pavilion was built outside the city, the temple became deserted, leaving it terribly lonely. It had attracted the wild cats to keep it company, as it missed the feeling of being needed. Understanding its plight, Wu Zhen asked if it would be willing to relocate to the Beast Market, "a place where you'll be needed." The Prayer Mat Demon happily agreed. Mei Zhuyu sat alone in his room, meditating to steady his mind.

Shuang Jiang pushed the door open and immediately asked why people in Chang'an criticized Changxi Palace, labeling it fraudulent. Mei Zhuyu explained that Changxi Palace's century of seclusion left a loophole, allowing ill-intentioned individuals to exploit its name for deceit. He advised Shuang Jiang to act discreetly. However, Shuang Jiang was indignant, asserting that their sect was not fake and that he intended to clear its name through genuine skill.

He revealed that their Master had said Changxi Palace was driven out by Chang'an demons, not that they left voluntarily, and declared his intent to "take them down."

Mei Zhuyu cautioned him against impulsiveness, but Shuang Jiang expressed frustration that he could not claim credit for his demon-slaying, stating he had come down the mountain to be a hero, unlike Mei Zhuyu who did not care about fame, and reiterated his belief that people needed desires to live a vivid life.

Meanwhile, Wu Zishu meticulously prepared a special medicinal concoction, using a fumigation method to help Wu Zhen restore her demon power, assuring her she would soon become a full demon, despite Wu Zhen's complaints about the heat and smelling of ginseng. Wu Zishu even briefly closed the hot springs due to "violations of demon law" to ensure no interruptions. Soon after, Mei Zhuyu officially took over as Director of the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, fulfilling a long-held ambition.

Though the other officials offered surface-level congratulations, their eyes betrayed hidden scorn and a lack of faith in the new director. Former Director Xu Luan quietly packed his belongings. Despite his demotion to Prefect of Yongzhou, he showed no resentment, instead appearing relieved, acknowledging Mei Zhuyu's significant talent. Xu Luan then led Mei Zhuyu into a secret chamber where a map of Chang'an’s strange cases hung on the wall, marked with areas of lingering demonic energy.

He sighed, lamenting Chang'an's intricate complexities and how even the renowned Changxi Palace, which vanished a century ago, could not bring peace. He wondered how mere mortals could possibly defeat demons. Xu Luan clarified he wasn’t shirking responsibility but rather didn’t wish to see his colleagues senselessly lose their lives. Before departing, Xu Luan solemnly handed the map to Mei Zhuyu as a keepsake, admitting it was too heavy a burden for him now.

Later, at the start of the month, Mei Zhuyu entered the Record Pavilion to review old "Heavenly Fire" files, where he coincidentally encountered Empress Wu herself. Empress Wu introduced herself as the official in charge of the pavilion, playfully suggesting that such trivial case files were beneath a Director's personal investigation, all while subtly exerting her authority. Mei Zhuyu, undaunted, articulately and logically explained his reasons for being there, which impressed Empress Wu, causing her demeanor to soften.

Wu Zhen arrived upon hearing the news and felt a wave of relief seeing her elder sister nodding approvingly at Mei Zhuyu. As Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen were about to leave the palace, a palace maid's startled cry echoed through the air. In the backyard, white camellias appeared to be bleeding, their dew-kissed petals tinged with crimson droplets that fell into the lotus pond, staining the water an alarming, mottled red.

Episode 9 Recap

A strange phenomenon began in the imperial tea garden: the white tea tree, long a favorite of Princess Yuan Zhen and known for its lush growth but never blooming, suddenly blossomed half a month prior. After the flowers fell like snow, a woman was seen nightly lingering by the tree, whispering as if burdened by endless worries.

Though concerned, Empress Wu, mindful of Princess Yuan Zhen's deep affection for the tree, strictly forbade palace staff from spreading rumors or disturbing it. Wu Zhen observed the tree and deduced the woman's identity but chose to keep it secret from Mei Zhuyu. Meanwhile, Hu Zhu presented Shuang Jiang with his payment for a recent demon exorcism. Her gaze fell upon the seven-colored fox tail charm hanging from his waist, which she expressed a desire to possess.

Shuang Jiang clarified that the charm was not a real fox tail but rather a tassel made of dyed rabbit fur, explaining that "seven-colored fox tail" was merely its name, not its material. Upon learning this, Hu Zhu's initial assertiveness softened, and some of her animosity towards him dissipated. During their conversation, Shuang Jiang heard Hu Zhu imply a romantic relationship between Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen.

He vehemently denied any romantic involvement between them, asserting that Mei Zhuyu, despite his outwardly calm demeanor, possessed an unyielding determination. Once Mei Zhuyu committed to a path, he never wavered, making romantic entanglements highly unlikely. That night, Wu Zhen and Mei Zhuyu concealed themselves in the imperial garden's pavilion. Under the moonlight, the white tea tree glowed faintly amidst the silence. A vibrant red figure drifted into view, and Mei Zhuyu, upon closer inspection, recognized Princess Yuan Zhen.

She held a pale porcelain vial, slowly pouring special medicinal liquid from the imperial physician onto the tree's roots, her brow furrowed with sorrow. Wu Zhen then revealed herself, and after a brief interaction where she introduced Mei Zhuyu as her follower and feigned concern for Yuan Zhen's fright, subtly cast a spell to render Princess Yuan Zhen unconscious. She instructed Mei Zhuyu to escort the princess back to her chambers while she remained to investigate the tree.

Once Mei Zhuyu departed, Wu Zhen introduced herself to the white tea tree as the Cat Lord of the Demon Market. A translucent figure, the White Tea Spirit, weakly manifested, his handsome face ashen and his semi-transparent body clinging to the tree bark. In response to Wu Zhen's inquiries, the White Tea Spirit recounted his story, revealing that he had begun to develop spiritual awareness many years ago.

Princess Yuan Zhen saved him, and in her loneliness, often confided in him. Half a year prior, he had begun to take human form, hoping to bloom for her as a gesture of gratitude. However, he soon became afflicted by parasitic poisonous moths, leaving him on the brink of death.

He lamented that white tea blossoms were also known as "beheaded flowers" because they fall entirely when at their most splendid, and he did not wish Yuan Zhen to witness his demise. Hearing his plight, Wu Zhen, unwilling to see Princess Yuan Zhen heartbroken and moved by the spirit's genuine affection, poured her precious Thousand Flower Honey Wine into the water around the tree.

The moths, drawn by the sweetness, plummeted into the water and drowned, and the White Tea Spirit's condition swiftly improved. Later, Princess Yuan Zhen awoke in her chambers, immediately anxious to check on the white tea tree. She passionately declared that the tree was incredibly precious to her, explaining that it was her only friend in the palace who truly listened to her, then turned to Mei Zhuyu, asking if there was anyone he cherished in the same way.

Mei Zhuyu, upon hearing her words, found Wu Zhen's image momentarily surfacing in his mind. When he returned to the tree, he saw that the poisonous moths were gone. Wu Zhen then explained that she had accidentally spilled the sweet Thousand Flower Honey Wine (which she had 'conveniently' acquired from the royal winery) into the water. The moths, attracted by the sweetness, plummeted into the water and drowned, thus protecting the white tea tree.

Wu Zhen praised his extensive knowledge, remarking on his discerning observation. She took a step closer, but Mei Zhuyu subtly retreated. Wu Zhen did not press the matter, instead suggesting they return home. Before leaving, Mei Zhuyu looked back at the white tea tree. Observing that the White Tea Spirit had committed no evil deeds and harbored no malicious thoughts, embodying an innocent and pure heart, he decided against capturing it.

Wu Zhen and Mei Zhuyu shared a carriage on their journey back. As they passed Mei Zhuyu's home, Wu Zhen pointed out that the once-muddy path had been smoothly paved, wide enough for carriages. Wu Zhen commented on the significant effort and cost, subtly implying it was due to his recent promotion. Mei Zhuyu casually remarked that the road was long overdue for repair and nothing special, denying any connection to his new position.

Yet, a faint smile played on Wu Zhen's lips, and amusement danced in her eyes. Back in his room, Mei Zhuyu sat alone, visibly troubled. Observing his agitation, Shuang Jiang suddenly realized that his Tenth Brother, a man of such austere purity, might finally be experiencing earthly emotions.

Wu Zhen and Wu Zishu cleverly collaborated to convince Liu Taizhen, also known as Lord Snake, not to pursue the matter of the White Tea Spirit remaining in the human world, acknowledging the profound bond between the spirit and Princess Yuan Zhen. Wu Zishu then reported to Liu Taizhen that a mortal was actively seeking "Records of Strange Demons," a book she had authored two centuries ago under her human alias, "Bai She Lang."

Intrigued, Liu Taizhen personally went to investigate and discovered the seeker was none other than Mei Si. Mei Si, upon Liu Taizhen's arrival, disregarded her frosty demeanor and persistently urged her to explain the contents of the book. He effusively described how the "Records of Strange Demons," though seemingly about monsters, actually encompassed local customs, human experiences, and methods to deal with different demons, divided into seven parts.

He showed particular enthusiasm for the "Seductive Spirit" chapter, describing how this shapeshifting entity would appear as a woman with long, unsettling hair and no visible face, silently appearing behind people to entangle them and choke them with branch-like fingers. Just as he was detailing this frightening aspect, Ling Xiao suddenly appeared, startling Mei Si, who nearly fainted from fright. Liu Taizhen firmly rejected Mei Si's advances once more and ordered Ling Xiao to escort him out.

After Mei Si was escorted out, Wu Zhen expressed pity for his unrequited feelings, lamenting Liu Taizhen's apparent heartlessness. Wu Zhen then confronted Wu Zishu, who admitted to orchestrating Mei Si's encounter with Liu Taizhen. That night, as heavenly thunder approached, the Elder of the Grey Sect broke free from his restraints and infiltrated the depths of the Demon Prison.

The powerful demon Xuan Hui, having been imprisoned for a century and repeatedly recaptured after escape attempts, harbored immense hatred for the two Lords of the demon market, particularly the Cat Lord, Wu Zhen, who had recaptured him last. He immediately began to manipulate the Elder of the Grey Sect into an alliance. The Elder revealed that the two Lords would use the impending heavenly thunder to break a malevolent entity, which would temporarily open a rift in the barrier.

He planned to channel the thunder into the prison, using its power to shatter Xuan Hui's cell doors. Concurrently, Empress Wu advised the Emperor to return the "Heavenly Fire" case files to the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs and assign significant responsibilities to Mei Zhuyu. Seeing her unwavering trust in him, the Emperor decided to test Mei Zhuyu's capabilities by tasking him with investigating the concealed demons within Chang'an and uncovering a potential hidden realm.

Episode 10 Recap

Blue-white lightning flashes across the sky above the Beast Market, illuminating it as brightly as day. Wu Zhen, standing at the center of a protective formation, works with other demons to activate a barrier. An aide informs her that the formation is ready and the barrier is now open, urging them to prepare. Seizing the moment, Elder Hui declares, "It's time." He uses the collective power of the demons to break open the prison gates.

To everyone's astonishment, the heavy, arm-thick chains that secured the great demon, Xuan Hui, are found to be binding only a small, weak black snake. Wu Zhen confronts the creature, asking if it is Xuan Hui, who proudly confirms his identity and mockingly calls her "Kitten." After destroying the Bone of No Transformation with lightning-struck wood, a surge of malevolent energy disperses, causing Wu Zishu to collapse unconscious.

Despite the immediate efforts of the demons to revive him, his body remains unresponsive, appearing like dead wood. Wu Zhen expresses her concern to Ling Xiao, asking why the usually calm Wu Zishu was so shaken. Ling Xiao suggests that as a book, he might have been scared by the lightning, or the malevolent energy from the evil spirit's bones.

He reassures her that Wu Zishu shows no signs of being infected by malevolent energy, and will recover with a few days of rest. He also notes that Cat Ancestor expended significant energy summoning the lightning. Ling Xiao expresses hope for rest now that the crisis is over, but Huzhu interjects, reminding Wu Zhen that tomorrow is the Lantern Festival. Wu Zhen, dreading her sister's usual antics, declares she won't attend.

Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu, reviewing old case files, discovers strange anomalies in the "Heaven Fire" case from seven years prior, mentioning a Beast Market in Chang'an. He emphasizes the need for extreme caution and investigation. He instructs Shuang Jiang to represent the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs at the Lantern Festival, as officials from the Six Ministries are required to attend. Shuang Jiang, though reluctant, agrees.

Separately, Mei Si, having seen the black snake appear the previous night, urgently seeks out Shuang Jiang this morning to exorcise demons. He finds Shuang Jiang, who has been trying to help with rain drainage, and asks if he is the master from Changxi Palace who can exorcise demons, to which Shuang Jiang confirms he is. On the day of the Lantern Festival, servants try to wake Wu Zhen, reminding her that Empress Wu will be arriving soon.

Empress Wu indeed seeks out Wu Zhen, finding her trying to leave, and sternly orders her to stay by her side for the entire festival. Wu Zhen's attempts to escape fail, forcing her to sit on the high platform, feigning attention while her mind wanders, much to Empress Wu's displeasure. Consort Mei encourages Wu Zhen to make a wish, but Wu Zhen dismisses the act as "unrealistic," like "fishing for the moon in water."

Empress Wu agrees, then reminds Wu Zhen that when she was gravely ill as a child, Empress Wu's fervent prayers during the Lantern Festival saved her. Consort Mei then asks Wu Zhen for her wish, and Wu Zhen simply states, "Peace for the world." Empress Wu mocks her, telling her to "just don't throw the world into chaos." Soon after, Mei Zhuyu arrives and formally greets the Empress, Consort Mei, and County Princess Wu Zhen.

Empress Wu praises Mei Zhuyu for solving two old cases, saying he has brought honor to the Mei family. Mei Zhuyu humbly attributes it to his duty. Consort Mei then asks Mei Zhuyu what he wishes for on the Lantern Festival. Mei Zhuyu expresses his wish for "favorable weather" and "peace across the land," earning sincere praise from Empress Wu for his "gentleman's spirit" and care for the world.

Wu Zhen, noticing the clear favoritism, complains to her sister, "Sister, don't be so obviously biased." Empress Wu advises both of them to take the tradition seriously, especially as they are of marriageable age, hoping the lanterns will carry their wishes for a good spouse to the heavens. Wu Zhen mutters about "last-minute prayers," while Mei Zhuyu assures them of his sincerity.

As night falls, Chang'an becomes a vibrant tapestry of music, laughter, and throngs of people enjoying the Lantern Festival. Huzhu encounters Shuang Jiang on the street and pulls him along to celebrate the festival. Xie Yao meets Mei Zhuyu and, unable to hide her admiration for her crush, directly offers to introduce him to her father to become his disciple, hinting at a potential marriage alliance. Mei Zhuyu politely declines.

Xie Yao becomes enraged, her words growing sharper, convinced that Mei Zhuyu wants to become a County Princess's consort. Though he doesn't explicitly state his feelings for Wu Zhen, he refuses to let Xie Yao badmouth her. Wu Zhen, emerging from the shadows, sternly refutes Xie Yao's words, each like a sharp knife, causing Xie Yao to lose face completely. Huzhu asks Shuang Jiang about his wish, and he initially states "to slay demons and banish evil."

Huzhu playfully teases him, asking how to write "slay" and if he has no "serious" wishes. Seeing his hesitation, she takes the brush and writes "to get rich" on a lantern for him, which makes Shuang Jiang happy. Mei Si, meanwhile, releases more than ten lanterns, each inscribed with the wish "to be united with Liu Taizhen." Liu Taizhen happens to pass by, sees them, and coldly walks away.

Mei Si wonders what Liu Taizhen wished for, but Wu Zhen tells him it is "just Lady Liu's way," and he will get used to her coldness. Mei Si then asks Wu Zhen if she will release a lantern, but she insists she's not a child and doesn't believe in such things. Mei Si tries to convince her, mentioning even Huang Yi released two, wishing to start a family.

Mei Zhuyu comments that relying on lanterns is slower than finding a matchmaker, but then suggests to Wu Zhen that since people say Lantern Festival wishes are most effective, she should make one. Wu Zhen agrees. Mei Si complains that she agreed to Mei Zhuyu so easily, when he's urged her for years. Wu Zhen, playful, declares that since Mei Zhuyu brought her the lantern, she wishes him a long life.

They then engage in a lighthearted exchange of wishes, with Mei Zhuyu wishing her good health, and Mei Si interjecting, asking them to make "proper wishes." Finally, on one lantern, Wu Zhen writes her wish: "May the Beast Market be peaceful and safe," and Mei Zhuyu writes his: "May the human world enjoy lasting harmony." As the city is illuminated by countless lanterns ascending like a river of stars, a magnificent, dragon-shaped lantern appears in the clouds, stunning the onlookers.

Wu Zhen and Liu Taizhen immediately sense a chilling demonic aura and their expressions change. Liu Taizhen quickly realizes it is "demon magic" and "a demon is controlling the lanterns." Shuang Jiang also feels "something off" while still with Huzhu and the children. The dragon lantern spews flames, causing thousands of other lanterns to ignite and fall, throwing Chang'an into chaos. Panic spreads, and people scatter.

Liu Taizhen warns Wu Zhen that the dragon is "Xuan Hui" and he has come specifically to kill her. Wu Zhen acknowledges this, noting that Xuan Hui is targeting her. Liu Taizhen decides to handle the burning lanterns to prevent further injury among the crowd, while Mei Zhuyu, sensing the demonic power in the lanterns, determines that the Xuan Snake (Xuan Hui) must be nearby and offers to search for it. Wu Zhen urges him to be careful.

As the fire rages, Wu Zhen immediately takes charge, ordering Huang Yi to have the Jinwu Guards escort everyone to safety and to notify the Fire Watch Department. Citizens express shock and fear about the massive fire and the mysterious Ao lantern that started it. Empress Wu, informed that the Fire Watch Department has been notified, instructs her servants to have every household count their members to ensure no further incidents.

She then issues an imperial decree, announcing to the entire city that the custom of releasing wish lanterns is henceforth forbidden to prevent future fires. Meanwhile, Xie Yao is trapped in the fire. Wu Zhen, without regard for her own safety, rescues Xie Yao. Xie Yao tells Mei Zhuyu that Wu Zhen pushed her down from the city gate tower to save her, before the fire exploded behind them. Mei Zhuyu, concerned, rushes back into the inferno.

Huang Yi tries to stop him, asserting that Wu Zhen, with her formidable skills, is unlikely to be trapped and that the fire brigade is on its way. Mei Zhuyu, however, declares that he "cannot risk anything happening to her" and pushes past Huang Yi to run through the flames towards the city tower. He finds Wu Zhen, who had been fighting Xuan Hui alone, now exhausted, injured, and collapsed on the ground.

Liu Taizhen pursues Xuan Hui to the outskirts of the city, confronting him angrily, "Xuan Hui, where do you think you’re going?" Xuan Hui, amused, notes it's been six years since their last meeting, mocking her for not even offering a proper greeting, saying he's forgotten how long he's been in the Demon Prison without light. Liu Taizhen demands to know how he escaped and why he harmed Cat Ancestor.

Xuan Hui deflects, accusing her of caring too much for Cat Ancestor and remarking that she hasn't changed. Liu Taizhen reminds him of his position as Snake Ancestor and warns him not to abuse his power. Xuan Hui retorts, "I'm telling you, it's not that I can't beat you, don't push me." Liu Taizhen dismisses his defiance, stating that imprisoning him was an act of mercy, and that her current actions are merely an elder teaching a younger one.

She warns that if he continues to resist after hurting Cat Ancestor, she "can kill [him] myself." Xuan Hui, enraged that she would harm a fellow demon for an outsider (Wu Zhen), transforms into a colossal black python, resembling a flood dragon. However, he proves no match for Liu Taizhen, who defeats him with a single palm strike within three moves, sending him crashing into the lake with a massive splash.

As Liu Taizhen approaches the water's edge, the disturbed surface of the lake instantly calms, becoming as still as a mirror. In her unconscious state, Wu Zhen relives a childhood nightmare, the Heaven Fire, where she screams for help but receives no answer. Then, Mei Zhuyu's voice calls to her, "Wu Zhen, Wu Zhen." When she opens her eyes, she sees Mei Zhuyu rushing through the flames towards her.

He was severely injured and fell unconscious after jumping from the city wall to save her. Later, in a room, an Imperial Physician explains that Mei Zhuyu has been given medicine to calm him and relieve pain, but his injuries, especially to his leg, are severe due to the high fall while carrying the County Princess, and he may have lasting problems.

Wu Zhen, dismissing the Imperial Physician and her attendant Ming Zhuang to search for rare herbs, asks Ling Xiao if the demon tonight was indeed Xuan Hui, the black snake who should be imprisoned. Ling Xiao confirms it was. Wu Zhen wonders how he escaped again, and Ling Xiao reassures her that the Snake Ancestor (Liu Taizhen) is pursuing him and they will know more once he is caught. Despite Ling Xiao's warning, Wu Zhen begins to use her demonic powers to heal Mei Zhuyu.

Episode 11 Recap

Wu Zhen transferred her demon powers to Mei Zhuyu through her mouth, her face paling but her hands not stopping until his breathing stabilized. She acknowledged that he had saved her life and felt compelled to prevent him from being crippled. An attendant urged her to be careful with her body after dealing with the Unrotted Bone Demon and now healing Mei Zhuyu, but Wu Zhen insisted she was fine and strong. The next morning, Mei Zhuyu awoke.

An imperial physician was summoned, who marvelled at Mei Zhuyu's remarkably fast recovery, attributing it to him being "blessed by the stars." The physician advised him to rest for a while longer for full recovery and prepared a prescription. Mei Zhuyu thanked him. After the physician left, Mei Zhuyu tried to leave, expressing concern about causing gossip and damaging Wu Zhen's reputation.

However, Wu Zhen stopped him, feigning indifference by claiming she was only worried about him dying in her manor, which would be unlucky. She had already arranged a guest room for him to recuperate, and informed him that she had notified the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, assuring him there were no urgent cases and no need for an injured man to hobble to work.

Wu Zhen dismissed his concerns, stating that as a County Princess, she could easily support ten young masters like him, and further joked about his leg injury affecting his brain, causing him to only listen to half of what she said. Mei Zhuyu, realizing her true concern, thanked her for her careful attention. Hu Zhu later confirmed to Mei Zhuyu that she had sent word to his family, assuring him they were aware and not to worry.

The incident, which should have been a tale of heroism, morphed into absurd gossip circulating throughout Chang'an. Some claimed Princess Qinghe tried to force Mei Zhuyu, and upon his refusal, angrily broke his leg, an act that supposedly angered the heavens, causing a lantern to fall and start a fire. Others, from different palace sources, countered that Mei Zhuyu was the one pestering Princess Qinghe, threatening his own life to be taken into the Duke’s manor.

These wildly varying accounts led people to conclude that palace gossip was unreliable, as those working in the palace often had "poor hearing." Meanwhile, at Mei Zhuyu's residence, Wenhua and Shuangjiang were worried about their young master. Wenhua blamed Shuangjiang's excessive eating for Mei Zhuyu's overwork and subsequent injury. Shuangjiang retorted, calling Wenhua a "cheeky servant," while Wenhua accused Shuangjiang of being a "jinx."

While they were squabbling, Hu Zhu arrived to deliver news: Mei Zhuyu had injured his leg and would be recuperating at the Duke's manor for a while. Wenhua, concerned, asked if the fall was real and if the injury was severe enough to affect Mei Zhuyu's ability to earn money. Hu Zhu reassured them that Mei Zhuyu was not seriously hurt and was being well cared for by Wu Erniangzi, promising he would return "chubby and well-fed."

This news brought great relief to Wenhua and Shuangjiang. After Hu Zhu returned to the manor, she noticed Wu Zhen's exceptional care for Mei Zhuyu, which made her suspect that Wu Zhen was falling for him. Wu Zhen did not deny it, confiding that after the recent Unrotted Bone Demon incident, her demon powers had not yet fully recovered.

She explained that if Mei Zhuyu hadn't risked his life to save her, she would likely have perished in the fire again, adding that even as the Cat Demon, she still feared pain and death. Hu Zhu questioned her, reminding her that the Cat Lord wasn't so fragile and Mei Zhuyu was just a mortal, but Wu Zhen insisted on her vulnerability. A complex emotion flickered in Wu Zhen's eyes as she spoke.

She then decided to visit Wu Zishu, who had just awakened. Wu Zhen had brought candy from the human world to help Wu Zishu with his medicine. As they sat together, Wu Zishu reminded her of her childhood when she hated bitter medicine, and he would always prepare candy to coax her. He jokingly warned her to eat less or she would become "Fat Zhen," also mentioning how she had avoided taking her body-nourishing medicine, preferring only candy.

Wu Zhen recounted how the candy shop was far away back then, and Wu Zishu had even persuaded the owner to move it next to the library for her. Wu Zishu confirmed this, stating that he would always fulfill her wishes, but still advised her to eat less candy. Shortly after, Liu Taizhen, who had been waiting outside, joined Wu Zhen to discuss official matters.

Wu Zhen inquired about Xuanhui, and Liu Taizhen explained that she had lured him to the east side of the city but he had escaped. Wu Zhen emphasized the need to prevent him from harming Chang'an's citizens. Liu Taizhen believed Xuanhui, despite his mischievous nature and repeated escape attempts, had never harmed mortals and was currently injured, so he likely wouldn't cause much trouble.

However, she suspected someone helped him escape the Demon Prison and appear at the Sky Lantern Festival. Wu Zhen agreed, deducing that someone used the power of heavenly thunder to break the barrier, and only the imprisoned Elder Hui could do this, suggesting a deal had been made. Liu Taizhen confirmed Elder Hui was still in the Demon Prison under restriction, with increased surveillance. Wu Zhen stated that Elder Hui’s repeated disturbances were always aimed at her.

She resolved to settle this long-standing grudge with him after the current busy period, which she revealed was "taking care of a patient" (referring to Mei Zhuyu). In the following days, Wu Zhen personally oversaw Mei Zhuyu's care. Whenever he tried to leave the manor, she would gently but firmly stop him, asking where he was going. Hu Zhu observed this, remarking to herself that she had never seen the Cat Lord so attentive to anyone.

One day, as Mei Zhuyu prepared to bathe, Wu Zhen intercepted the maidservants who were bringing him fresh clothes, insisting that it was improper for them to go in while he was bathing. She then personally carried the clothes to him. Seeing his awkwardness, Wu Zhen mischievously recounted a story from an old storybook about a mortal man who, advised by a miracle, stole a goddess's clothes while she bathed, leading to her becoming his wife.

She asked if he was moved by the tale. Mei Zhuyu, however, found the story absurd, questioning how such an "absurd story" could be in a storybook. He questioned the goddess's decision to fall for someone who stole her clothes, and criticized the man for relying on marriage to change his destiny instead of self-improvement.

He asserted that true love required a man to be stable and settled before seeking to marry the woman he loved, rather than dragging her into his own unstable situation. Wu Zhen conceded that the story might have its flaws and that she might have remembered it wrong.

Mei Zhuyu then asked if she was mocking him, but Wu Zhen replied that they were different from the people in the story, implying their situation was more complex, and teasingly asked if he truly wanted to continue their conversation in such a state. On the night of the Sky Lantern Festival, Mei Si, while pursuing Liu Taizhen to the lakeside, was inexplicably splashed with cold water. In his confusion, he accidentally sat on Xuanhui, knocking him unconscious.

Seeing Xuanhui transform into a small black snake, Mei Si simply tucked him into his embrace and took him home. Although Xuanhui had lost his powers, he could still speak. Upon being rescued by Mei Si, Xuanhui was reminded of an incident a hundred years prior when Liu Taizhen had saved him. Mei Si was initially nervous encountering a demon, but he quickly became fascinated by the strange encounter.

After a brief conversation where Xuanhui insisted he was the "mighty Xuan Snake" and not a "loach spirit," and expressed his annoyance at being treated as a "little demon" and told Mei Si he would bite him to death once recovered, Mei Si's interest in the supernatural grew even stronger. Xuanhui recounted how he was injured while transforming, hit on the head by a heavy object by a despicable villain, and vowed revenge.

Mei Si offered him cabbage and suggested he bathe because he looked dirty, which Xuanhui rejected indignantly, stating he wouldn't bathe even if Mei Si didn't touch him. Since their prolonged stay at the Duke’s manor, Wenhua’s cooking had become increasingly perfunctory, leading to constant complaints from Shuangjiang.

A colleague from the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs delivered Mei Zhuyu’s monthly salary and, in doing so, hinted at the possibility of Mei Zhuyu marrying into the Duke’s family, even stating that people were betting on whether Princess Qinghe would marry into the Mei family or if Mei Zhuyu would marry into the Duke's manor. Upon hearing this, Wenhua and Shuangjiang were alarmed, immediately resolving to prevent such a thing and rushing to the Duke’s manor.

They burst in, frantically checking if Mei Zhuyu was injured, taken advantage of, or had "lost his innocence," as Wenhua put it, while Shuangjiang worried if he still remembered them after his fall. Mei Zhuyu assured them he was perfectly fine and remembered them. When asked if he disliked Wenhua’s cooking, Mei Zhuyu explained it was simply difficult to leave the manor.

Shuangjiang then asked Mei Zhuyu about the recent chaos at the Sky Lantern Festival, and Mei Zhuyu suggested it wasn't human-caused, proposing it might lead them to the Beast Market and offer a chance to locate it. As his leg was still healing, he tasked Shuangjiang with investigating clues about the strange phenomena.

Shuangjiang, while confirming that rumors of Mei Zhuyu breaking his leg and marrying into the Duke's family were rampant, scoffed at them, stating he knew it was nonsense and that Mei Zhuyu and the County Princess clearly had nothing going on. However, Mei Zhuyu then confessed to Shuangjiang that he felt affection for Wu Zhen.

He elaborated, quoting a poem, that he sought "the cause, not the result," acknowledging that as a celestial master from Changxi Palace, he was forbidden to experience such emotions and had unresolved matters, thus he dared not aspire to marriage. Shuangjiang was deeply concerned, reminding Mei Zhuyu that those from Changxi Palace must not fall in love, and predicting that he and Wu Zhen would have no future.

He also noted Mei Zhuyu's change in character, as he now read poetry. Mei Zhuyu responded that he had not forgotten his vows and had no intention of marrying her; he was merely being honest about his feelings. He explained that perhaps the "nights were too cold," and he longed for "a ray of light."

After Mei Zhuyu bid farewell to Shuangjiang and Wenhua, he turned to find the calico cat, a form Wu Zhen often took to accompany him, secretly observing him while wondering if he was afraid of cats and if he recognized her. Later, contemplating Mei Zhuyu’s newfound affections, Shuangjiang agonized over whether to inform his Senior Brother. After much internal debate, he decided against revealing the full truth to spare Mei Zhuyu from sect punishment.

Instead, he planned to write to his Senior Brother, using the presence of demons in Chang'an and Mei Zhuyu's injury as a pretext to request his return for recovery. This, he reasoned, would separate the two of them without him having to lie, satisfying everyone. Soon, Mei Zhuyu’s injuries were completely healed, and Wu Zhen finally felt at ease.

With her affairs in the human world resolved, she personally returned to the Beast Market and went to the Demon Prison to meet Elder Hui. Mei Zhuyu, seeing her busy, gently asked why she was working again so soon after healing. Inside the prison, Elder Hui feigned ignorance about Xuanhui’s escape, even asking if Wu Zhen had come for his matter and needed his help, but Wu Zhen immediately saw through his pretense.

She openly mocked him, pointing out his refusal to accept her as the Cat Lord and his cowardice in avoiding a direct confrontation, instead resorting to "petty, sneaky things like a rat." She even explicitly called him a "rat." Wu Zhen then reminded Elder Hui that their long-standing animosity needed to be settled and declared that, as he himself once said, "winner takes all, loser is nothing." She challenged him directly, ready to finally put an end to their feud.

Episode 12 Recap

Wu Zhen, determined to settle her long-standing feud with Elder Hui, openly declared her intention to challenge him, stating she had finally figured out how to settle things according to his own philosophy: "winner takes all, loser is nothing." Elder Hui, confident, immediately shattered his chains, creating a fearsome life-and-death arena and urging Wu Zhen to accept the life-and-death challenge.

Wu Zhen accepted, stating that if she won, Elder Hui would lose his position as the head of the Gray Sect. News of the challenge spread instantly across the Beast Market, causing widespread discussion among demons, who had never heard of a Cat Lord and an Elder fighting to the death. Hu Zhu, shocked by Wu Zhen's acceptance, then sought out Liu Taizhen.

Liu Taizhen explained that the life-and-death challenge, a forbidden technique established by the first two Lords, was intended as a final safeguard against evil demons seizing power, to be invoked only in cases of widespread demonic rebellion against those in power. Liu Taizhen deemed Wu Zhen's actions reckless, but finding no way to intervene, she coldly declared that if Wu Zhen were to die, she would personally avenge her by killing Elder Hui.

On the eve of the decisive battle, Wu Zhen sat by the river, fishing, her mind in turmoil. Mei Zhuyu approached quietly, hesitating to speak, which only irritated her. He asked what she was doing, and she replied, "Fishing." He noted she had a "good appetite," and she explained the food was a "farewell feast" from Hu Zhu, implying she should "eat well before you go." Mei Zhuyu sensed she had something on her mind.

Wu Zhen then playfully suggested building him a golden house at her estate. Mei Zhuyu quipped, "And let me sing Changmen Fu inside," surprised she knew such unofficial stories from Wu Zhen's estate's rich library, then jokingly accused her of comparing him to a heartless man. She retorted that he was always "teasing and talking nonsense."

Mei Zhuyu, recalling Shuang Jiang's earlier warning about Changxi Palace disciples not being allowed to fall in love, silently acknowledged that he sought only the "cause, not the result" of his feelings, as he never planned to marry her and his heart was troubled by his affections. Wu Zhen, noticing his reticence, rose to leave. Mei Zhuyu asked her where she was going, to which she provocatively replied she had "an appointment with another man."

Mei Zhuyu simply asked her to "come back early," and Wu Zhen promised she would. He stood silently, watching her departure, unable to say anything more. That night, Mei Si was engrossed in "Yao Gui Notes," particularly a passage describing "Dark Moon Night, when ghosts and spirits gather." Puzzled, he asked Xuan Hui why duels were held on such a night.

Xuan Hui, after teasing Mei Si about his interest in such tales — which Mei Si explained was due to Lady Liu's fascination, stating that he wanted to "think what she thinks, like what she likes" — reluctantly explained. He revealed that on Dark Moon Night, without a visible moon, yin energy and the power of evil spirits reach their peak, making it a common choice for demonic duels.

Xuan Hui further expounded on the nature of demons, stating they are like humans, full of desires and evil thoughts. He also shared that his Xuan Snake clan's true form is the Yinglong, a powerful creature capable of summoning storms after a hundred years of cultivation, and he himself had cultivated for over a century. However, he clarified that Xuan Snakes are at their weakest before transforming into dragons.

He concluded that the fundamental rule of the demon world, observed for millennia, is "the strong prey on the weak, and the winner becomes king," musing about who would claim dominance this very night as demon winds began to stir. Meanwhile, the fierce duel between Wu Zhen, a Cat Spirit with only eighteen years of cultivation, and the millennia-old Elder Hui began. Many onlookers in the Beast Market believed Elder Hui had an undeniable advantage.

In their initial exchanges, Wu Zhen appeared to be at a disadvantage, enduring heavy blows but rising stubbornly each time she fell. Elder Hui, seeing her resilience, unleashed his ultimate magic weapon, pouring all his power into a final strike. Wu Zhen met him with her whip, and their battle raged, darkening the skies. As defeat seemed imminent for Wu Zhen, Elder Hui recklessly shattered the barrier, drawing down heavenly lightning.

This act was a grave violation of Beast Market law, ensuring severe punishment even if he won, but he disregarded it entirely. Thunderclouds churned, and lightning engulfed them within the shattered barrier. Wu Zishu flew in to assist but was repelled by the immense power of the lightning. Elder Hui was certain he would destroy Wu Zhen, but to his shock, she not only survived the lightning but used it to temper her body and break through her cultivation bottlenecks.

Elder Hui, furious, ranted that this world was "never meant for creatures like you—half-breeds." Wu Zishu, worried, called out to Wu Zhen. Finally, Wu Zhen revealed her true cat form, engaging Elder Hui in a cataclysmic final battle. Ultimately, Elder Hui was defeated. He could not comprehend how his millennia of cultivation had been no match for Wu Zhen, who had only cultivated for eighteen years.

Wu Zhen, with a cold demeanor, exposed his flawed philosophy, asserting that victory does not solely depend on the depth of one's cultivation. She challenged his belief in "the strong rule," asking if he would still uphold it now that he was at her mercy.

Wu Zhen then declared that true kingship in the demon world was not about "taking lives at will or holding absolute power," but about protecting both humans and demons, especially "the weakest beings," from being bullied. Despite several elders, including Elder Jin, pleading for leniency due to Elder Hui's long service and momentary lapse, Wu Zhen, acknowledging his crime of shattering the barrier between the human and demon worlds, decided to spare his life but enforce a harsh punishment.

She stripped him of all his cultivation, reducing him to a mortal, and banished him to the harsh human world, condemning him to experience the suffering of the weak, like a "solitary mouse." When asked if anyone had objections, the other elders submitted to Lord Cat’s command. Despite her victory, Wu Zhen was gravely injured. She remembered her promise to Mei Zhuyu to return home and, pushing through her injuries, made her way back.

Liu Taizhen, witnessing Wu Zhen's weakened state, suggested she rest at her place, but Wu Zhen insisted on keeping her word and going home. Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu anxiously waited for her, even as his servants tried to reassure him that Lady Wu often returned late or stayed out. He worriedly replied that she had promised to come back today and that he had a bad feeling, prompting servants to compare him to a "pining husband rock."

As midnight passed, Mei Zhuyu continued to wait outside her room, concerned about being rude by visiting so late. Wu Zhen eventually stumbled back, exhausted from her fight, finding Mei Zhuyu still awake and waiting for her. She playfully attributed her injuries to a fight, joking that she preferred "younger gentlemen" to older ones like Elder Hui. Seeing her severely weakened state, Mei Zhuyu offered to help her. Overwhelmed by exhaustion, Wu Zhen collapsed into his arms and fainted.

Mei Zhuyu, momentarily flustered, gently held her, allowing her to rest safely in his embrace. He attempted to move her, concerned about appearances, but she was unconscious. At the same time, Wu Zishu, addressing Liu Taizhen as "Eldest Brother Ten," unexpectedly visited her residence by climbing the wall, explaining he was anxious and didn't want to be rude by knocking late at night.

He shared a recollection of Mei Silang seeing a "monster-like shadow" during the Sky Lantern Festival, which he now found unsettling. Liu Taizhen asked if he sensed anything "strange" about the sky that night, but Wu Zishu did not, so she sent him away, promising to investigate further tomorrow and warning him not to climb her wall again. Shortly after, Liu Taizhen returned to her estate to find Mei Si asleep by her door.

He explained he was guarding her because it was Dark Moon Night, when "sinister energy is at its peak," and he worried for her safety, though he had accidentally fallen asleep. Relieved she was safe, Mei Si prepared to leave. Liu Taizhen then questioned him, asking how he knew about the Dark Moon Night's specific dangers. Mei Si revealed he learned it from the "Yao Gui Notes" written by "Lord White Snake," and offered to show her the book.

Liu Taizhen, though denying interest, was left pondering if she had indeed written such a detail in her own book, given she was the original "Lord White Snake." Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu gently carried the unconscious Wu Zhen back to her room. As he cared for her burning fever throughout the night, recalling their past interactions, he began to harbor deep suspicions about Wu Zhen's true identity.

Concurrently, news spread across Chang'an of mysterious "heavenly fires" that water could not extinguish, with no discernible source. Authorities reported that several citizens had vaguely seen "demon shadows fleeing," reigniting ancient legends of the Beast Market. A firm declaration was made that "demons and monsters, spirits and fiends" must be "rooted out" and "exterminated completely." Simultaneously, Empress Wu advised the Emperor to return the heavenly fire case files to the Xuanjian Division and assigned a crucial task to Mei Zhuyu. Observing the Empress's deep trust in him, the Emperor decided to test Mei Zhuyu's abilities and investigate the true nature of the demonic presence in Chang'an.

Episode 13 Recap

After Wu Zhen woke up, she found Mei Zhuyu holding a scroll, carefully reading a popular storybook. She saw his brows slightly furrowed, puzzled as to why the book always depicted women's marriage as the culmination of life, yet made no mention of the hardships after marriage or values beyond romance. Listening to Mei Zhuyu's insights, Wu Zhen's lips curled into a slight smile, and the admiration in her eyes deepened. Huzhu arrived in a hurry, accompanied by Wuzishu.

Wu Zhen put down her chopsticks and left her seat. Only then did she learn that cracks had appeared in the barrier, with mortals repeatedly wandering in by mistake and minor demons escaping. Liu Taizhen, unable to attend to everything herself, had specially sent them to help. Wuzishu glimpsed the medicinal soup and honey on the maid's tray. Those were originally the medicinal starter and sweet treat Wu Zhen had specially prepared for Mei Zhuyu.

His eyes suddenly darkened, having not expected such thoughtfulness to be bestowed upon another. Mei Zhuyu left the manor to find Shuangjiang. He suspected that the new moon anomaly last night had another hidden agenda. The two of them went together to the red-light district to investigate, and happened to encounter Huang Yi, the patrol captain. The other party gravely advised them against it.

He revealed that undercurrents were stirring in Chang'an recently, and a banned drug harmful to mortals was quietly spreading. Although repeatedly prohibited, it was difficult to eradicate. He had originally intended to seal off the red-light district for a thorough investigation, but due to the numerous noble offspring frequenting the area, he was ultimately powerless. Mei Zhuyu outwardly agreed and left, but secretly returned.

He put on a mask to conceal his identity, and then took a voice-altering pill, unexpectedly causing him to lose his voice. Wu Zhen had just finished mending a loophole in the barrier when she discovered another crack leading directly to a parasitic shop selling human skins. She immediately cast a spell to seal the opening on the screen. Huzhu whispered a reminder to be wary of the Yunong Pavilion across the street; that place had always harbored dark magic.

Just then, a drunkard stumbled into the shop. Wu Zhen quickly materialized a human skin to knock him unconscious. Unexpectedly, she found herself face to face with Mei Zhuyu, who was wearing a mask. The two exchanged a few blows. Mei Zhuyu sensed a demonic aura on the other person, but failed to discern her true form. Wu Zhen seized the opportunity to erase Mei Zhuyu's spiritual memory and threw him out of the barrier.

Wuzishu accompanied her all night, mending the various openings. It wasn't until dawn, when they happened upon Huang Yi, that she learned Mei Zhuyu had appeared in the red-light district last night. After Wuzishu returned to the demon market, he was still entangled and lured by Wuhuagu, who had been lurking in the shadows. Faced with the other party's renewed suggestion of collaboration, he still coldly refused. Wuhuagu became enraged and humiliated.

It chillingly recounted past events: "Back then, its bones were annihilated into dust. It took a hundred years for it to sneak into a jewelry workshop with the help of a mortal and see the light of day again." Wuhuagu taunted Wuzishu, saying that as an ancient military treatise, he was content to remain buried, which was truly a betrayal of his potential; he ought to follow the will of heaven.

At the same time, Shuangjiang received an urgent letter from her Senior Disciple Brother and hurried to the Xuanjian Division to find Mei Zhuyu. The letter mentioned that Changxi Palace intended to gather disciples to discuss the demon unrest in Chang'an, vowing to purge the city of evil spirits. Mei Zhuyu felt that Changxi Palace had lived in seclusion for a hundred years and knew little about the current situation in Chang'an. He decided to continue his covert investigations.

In just one night, rumors of evil spirits in the red-light district had spread throughout the city. Men in every corner of the streets were discussing it, and people's hearts were restless. The Two Lords of the Demon Market and the Elders held an emergency meeting. Faced with the escalating chaos, the elders were at a loss. Wuzishu proposed that to eliminate future troubles, all those who had visited the red-light district should be annihilated.

This statement immediately met with fierce opposition from Wu Zhen. During their argument, their sharp differences became apparent. Wu Zhen was startled to realize that Wuzishu was becoming increasingly unfamiliar to her. She would rather bear the risks herself than harm innocent civilians. Afterward, Liu Taizhen sought out Wu Zhen and advised her with her own experiences. Two hundred years ago, she had assumed the alias Bai She Lang (White Snake Lady) and experienced the mortal world.

She and Duan Lang were a perfect match, talented and beautiful, deeply in love, and made many promises to each other. Unexpectedly, after the other party discovered her true form as a snake demon, he first fled in panic, then falsely returned to propose marriage, but in reality, he poisoned her. The gentleman of yesterday instantly transformed into a hideous fiend.

Liu Taizhen, stroking an old scar on her wrist, cautioned Wu Zhen: "The human heart is like the ocean; do not delude yourself into thinking you can discern everyone's true intentions. All things in this world are always a mix of light and shadow. The closer you get, the more you will perceive their sharp edges."

Episode 14 Recap

At sunset, Hu Zhu quietly returned to Ruyi Pavilion, where she unexpectedly discovered several packages of Wu Shi San. Soon after, Huang Yi and his group arrived at Willow Lane, asserting that the establishment harbored illicit activities. Seeing them, Hu Zhu deliberately threw the Wu Shi San from the second floor, prompting Huang Yi to immediately order a lockdown and search. Observing from her carriage nearby, Liu Taizhen was pleased that Wu Zhen's strategy had proven effective.

Just then, Mei Si arrived, having heard the news. He eagerly stepped forward to greet Liu Taizhen, only to be met with her usual cold indifference. Unfazed, Mei Si, still infatuated, declared his intention to write an illustrated book of strange tales as a unique gift for her. He explained that he was inspired by reading Bai Shelang's "Notes of Strange Spirits," which was written for a loved one.

He stated that the mere fact Liu Taizhen did not glare at him filled his heart with immeasurable joy, believing she would surely appreciate his present. Later that night, Mei Zhuyu walked alone through a quiet alley. Noticing an old farmer on the street selling peaches, he felt a pang of sympathy and bought all of them. Wu Zhen suddenly appeared and asked for a peach.

Mei Zhuyu, with a gentle gesture, wiped the frost from a peach with his sleeve before handing it to her. This small, thoughtful act warmed Mei Zhuyu, and they agreed to meet again the next day to admire the mountain flowers. Meanwhile, Shuang Jiang came to bid farewell. He treated Hu Zhu to a lavish banquet at Ruyi Pavilion, though he had little money, pretending to be more affluent than he was.

During the meal, he mentioned his plan to buy a horse that night and travel to Quzhou. Hu Zhu, momentarily saddened by his impending departure, but acknowledging his mission, advised him that horses were sold on North Street, not South Street. Her unusually warm demeanor towards Shuang Jiang did not go unnoticed by an attentive admirer. The next day, Shuang Jiang was puzzled to find that the horse he had purchased the previous night was already hitched to a carriage.

He suspected Mei Zhuyu had hidden motives behind his supposed farewell. Hu Zhu then revealed the truth: Mei Zhuyu had bought the horse for Wu Zhen. Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu strolled through the forest with Wu Zhen. Stirred by the moment, he could not help but bring up their accidental kiss. Wu Zhen explained it was merely a misunderstanding, which Mei Zhuyu did not press further.

As they sat beneath a tree, Wu Zhen looked at the sparse branches, feeling a wistful longing for the flowers to bloom eternally, defying the seasons, wishing she had the magic to make it so. Mei Zhuyu, with a serene expression, countered that seasons followed their natural order, and flowers bloomed in their time; even with great magic, one should not defy the laws of nature.

Annoyed, Wu Zhen impulsively threw the foxtail grass she had been fiddling with into the wind. As the stalk gently spun to the ground, Mei Zhuyu's gaze followed it, and he suddenly recalled the tabby cat from his manor, feeling a strange connection to it. Hearing Mei Zhuyu praise the cat, Wu Zhen instantly brightened, remarking that the feline was remarkably discerning and particularly fond of him, much like herself, both drawn to his refined and elegant bearing.

As Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen gazed into each other's eyes, their unspoken feelings surged, and they found themselves drawing closer. However, the strict rules of Changxi Palace suddenly flashed through Mei Zhuyu's mind. He abruptly pulled back, stating that their closeness was against the rules, and used his impending departure as an excuse to sever their burgeoning connection. Wu Zhen, indignant, rose and departed swiftly in the carriage Mei Zhuyu had prepared.

Mei Zhuyu and Shuang Jiang were left to walk back to the city amidst scattered petals, without a horse or carriage. Mei Si locked himself in his room. Hearing rustling sounds from within, his father assumed his unruly son was once again secretly painting inappropriate images. Just as he was about to break down the door to reprimand him, he saw Mei Si diligently writing at his desk, producing surprisingly well-composed articles.

Mei Si knew that Xuan Hui was secretly assisting him. His father was initially placated, but then spotted an idol of the God of Literature on the desk, immediately suspecting his son was once again indulging in gambling with loaches. Enraged, he accused Mei Si of abandoning painting for trivial pursuits. Mei Si frantically explained that Xuan Hui was the reincarnation of Wenchang Emperor, subtly prompting Xuan Hui to demonstrate.

Xuan Hui, obligingly, twisted its body to form the character "文" (wen/literature). Mei Si's father, awestruck, immediately set up an incense altar for worship, pledging generous offerings for his son's success in the exams. Back at her manor, Wu Zhen complained to Hu Zhu about Mei Zhuyu. A nearby servant discreetly overheard their conversation and quietly released a messenger pigeon that night. Mei Zhuyu and Shuang Jiang found lodging at an inn.

Shuang Jiang ostentatiously ordered a table full of delicacies, while frequently glancing at a heavily clothed man in white at a neighboring table. Mei Zhuyu subtly signaled him to stop speculating and instructed him to take their luggage to their room. Just then, a commotion erupted as several bandits, armed with knives, burst in, demanding money from everyone.

All the terrified diners nervously handed over their money bags, except for Mei Zhuyu and the white-clothed man, who remained still, seemingly unaffected. The bandit leader approached Mei Zhuyu, demanding his money. Mei Zhuyu calmly responded that his money was in his room and offered to lead the way to retrieve it. Surprisingly, the gullible bandits fell for the deception and followed him into the room.

As the bandits entered the room one by one, they were swiftly subdued by Shuang Jiang, who had been lying in wait. Officials, alerted to the incident, soon arrived and arrested all the bandits. The white-clothed gentleman, Pei Jiya, formally thanked Mei Zhuyu and Shuang Jiang, inviting them to dinner. During the meal, he revealed he had been away from the capital for many years, dedicating himself to the study of perfumery.

With his keen sense of smell, he not only detected Mei Zhuyu's old injuries but also a subtle woman's fragrance on him. Pei Jiya further confided that his chronic illness was gradually improving, and he had returned to Chang'an to find his childhood sweetheart, vowing to remain with her forever. Mei Zhuyu raised his cup to congratulate him, but a flicker of suspicion crossed his mind. After dinner, Shuang Jiang was suddenly struck by severe abdominal pain.

Mei Zhuyu quickly diagnosed it as poisoning and hurried him off to find a doctor. Meanwhile, Pei Jiya and his maid secretly entered Mei Zhuyu's room to search. It was revealed that Pei Jiya was Wu Zhen's cousin, who had harbored a deep affection for her since childhood. The bandit incident had been his elaborate scheme, meticulously planned to deal with Mei Zhuyu, his perceived love rival.

Since Mei Zhuyu had neither drunk any wine nor eaten any food, he had not been poisoned. Pei Jiya concluded that Mei Zhuyu did not hold a place in Wu Zhen's heart and therefore posed no threat. He then promptly departed by carriage for the capital.

Episode 15 Recap

The episode begins with Mei Zhuyu and Shuang Jiang returning to their inn room. Mei Zhuyu points out a Tracking Talisman he had cast on the door, which now glows a sinister red. He explains that a black glow would indicate dark magic, white for Daoist magic, and no glow for an ordinary person; the red glow signifies the presence of a heretic cultivator.

Shuang Jiang, unfamiliar with such a specific detail from their master's teachings, learns from Mei Zhuyu that heretic cultivators use a form of dark magic from the Western Regions, fueling their spells with flesh and blood through extremely cruel methods, though their power is limited. Mei Zhuyu concludes that Shuang Jiang had been poisoned on purpose, noting that he himself, having eaten and drunk nothing at the dinner, remained unharmed despite their shared accommodations.

Shuang Jiang questions why Pei Jiya would harm them after their encounter. Mei Zhuyu suspects that if it was deliberate, even Pei Jiya's earlier show of gratitude was part of a larger plan. Given Pei Jiya’s detailed knowledge of Chang’an and the involvement of dark magic, Mei Zhuyu stresses the need for caution. He instructs Shuang Jiang to immediately report the situation to Changxi Palace, while he returns to Chang'an to investigate Pei Jiya further.

Meanwhile, at Ruyi Pavilion, Wu Zhen drinks alone, her mind hazy with alcohol. In her semi-conscious state, she envisions Mei Zhuyu approaching her, their affection palpable as they move closer. However, a sudden disturbance downstairs, caused by a dancer falling, startles her awake. The image of Mei Zhuyu's face shimmers and fades, replaced by Pei Jiya's gentle smile, which instantly clears her drunken haze. Upon entering Chang'an, Mei Zhuyu overhears rumors about Wu Zhen.

He goes directly to the Mei residence to find Mei Si, hoping to gather information about a suspicious person he encountered outside the city. Mei Si agrees to help, using his connections with city gate guards. Mei Si, who knows Pei Jiya, greets Mei Zhuyu by teasing him about Wu Zhen, mentioning that she has "moved on" and is now with a new "beau."

Mei Si elaborates on the widespread gossip in Chang'an, stating that the "getting close" part was true, but the "new beau" part was false; the man was actually Pei Jiya, Wu Zhen's childhood sweetheart and her maternal uncle's adopted son from the Pei family of Kunzhou. Mei Zhuyu recalls Pei Jiya's prior introduction and the alarming red glow of the Tracking Talisman, confirming his suspicions that Pei Jiya's return is indeed premeditated.

Filled with indignation, Mei Zhuyu proceeds to the Duke’s manor, where he finds Pei Jiya and Wu Zhen seated together, engaged in conversation. Wu Zhen's demeanor towards Mei Zhuyu is notably distant. It becomes clear that Pei Jiya has skillfully twisted the events at the inn, transforming Mei Zhuyu's heroic act into a mere romantic interlude and even fabricating a story about his maids being smitten with Mei Zhuyu, thereby creating a wedge between Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen.

Pei Jiya explains that he had merely turned their encounter into a story for Wu Zhen and even claims Mei Zhuyu had wished them well. Wu Zhen, appearing to believe Pei Jiya's version, comments on Mei Zhuyu's usual generosity. When Mei Zhuyu questions Pei Jiya's presence, Pei Jiya states he is in Chang’an for the Incense Assembly and is temporarily residing at the Duke’s manor.

Taking advantage of Pei Jiya’s temporary residence, Mei Zhuyu declares his old leg injury has flared up and requests to stay at the manor for a few days. Pei Jiya objects, citing rules against outsiders in the inner court and emphasizing his own status as Wu Zhen's childhood sweetheart who had lived there previously.

Mei Zhuyu calmly counters that he too had lived there recently and shared a bond of life and death with Wu Zhen, making any talk of impropriety irrelevant. Unable to refuse, Wu Zhen permits both men to stay. Later, a servant inquires if Wu Zhen had anticipated Mei Zhuyu's return, to which Wu Zhen admits she had, after hearing Pei Jiya's account. Wu Zhen confesses to finding Pei Jiya somewhat strange and resolves to remain neutral between the two men.

Mei Zhuyu later presses Pei Jiya about whether their meeting was coincidental, to which Pei Jiya replies there are "no coincidences in this world, only fate." Mei Zhuyu then asks if Pei Jiya had visited his room the previous night, which Pei Jiya evades. Pei Jiya then openly declares that he does not care about the Incense Assembly, only about Wu Zhen.

Mei Zhuyu subtly challenges him, referencing an earlier conversation where Pei Jiya spoke of a woman he admired but said they were "not meant to be," implying Wu Zhen isn't truly important to him. After Mei Zhuyu retires, Pei Jiya is overheard telling his maid that he wished they had used a "stronger dose" of poison, confirming his malicious intent.

Later, Pei Jiya brings Wu Zhen some popular romance storybooks, advocating that a woman's true fulfillment lies in finding a good husband to cherish and protect her. Wu Zhen, however, expresses her agreement that finding someone reliable is indeed important. In a flashback to the Beast Market, Wu Zishu reminisces about his first meeting with Wu Zhen, who as a young Cat Spirit had visited his Bookstore to find a way to strengthen the Demon Market barrier.

They quickly became friends. Wu Zishu recalls how Wu Zhen loved sweets, especially sugar cakes, but often suffered toothaches from overindulgence, forcing him to cut off her supply. To make amends, Wu Zishu now seeks out the old baker to recreate those special sugar cakes, sending a box to Wu Zhen. As Wu Zhen savors a sugar cake, Liu Taizhen, the Serpent Master, arrives.

Liu Taizhen, teasing Wu Zhen about her recent romantic entanglements, reveals that her shedding period is approaching, which will prevent her from fulfilling her role as a judge for the upcoming Incense Assembly. She asks Wu Zhen to take her place, and Wu Zhen agrees, albeit expressing her lack of expertise in incense. Liu Taizhen assures her that many experienced judges will be present, and Ling Xiao will provide support.

Just then, Wu Zishu arrives, sincerely apologizing for his past strictness and expressing how much he regretted it, even learning Demon Law by heart as penance. He presents the sugar cakes as a secret gift from Xuan Feng, hoping they still taste the same. Wu Zhen accepts his apology, and they reconcile. The day of the Incense Assembly arrives. Wu Zhen takes her place as a judge alongside An Biluo, a highly respected incense master whom Ling Xiao deeply admires.

Ling Xiao warns Wu Zhen to avoid other judges, Master Xie and Master Gao, as she had previously "beaten up Master Xie's nephew and thrashed Master Gao's nephew." Mei Zhuyu, feigning an excuse, accompanies Mei Si to the event. Mei Si, upon seeing Wu Zhen on the judging panel instead of Liu Taizhen, expresses his surprise. Ling Xiao is visibly star-struck by An Biluo. Mei Zhuyu playfully comments on Ling Xiao having a "lapdog" smell, further annoying him.

The rules of the assembly are announced: entries will be graded as Common, Refined, Exquisite, and Supreme, with the highest-ranked advancing. The grand prize is the rare Qijiao resin. The competition begins with the first contestant, an incense master from Jiuhe Incense House in Qizhou, who presents "Leyou Incense," crafted from agarwood sourced from the Kingdom of Moluo and sealed with Suhe oil for a hundred days. Pei Jiya comments on the unique amber resin scent within the wood fragrance.

As the incense is lit, both Wu Zhen and Mei Zhuyu subtly detect a hint of blood. However, An Biluo sensationally declares he smells "no fragrance at all," causing a stir among the attendees. When it is Wu Zhen’s turn to judge, she rates the incense as "Common," explaining that she perceives a "trace of blood within the scent." During the judging, Wu Zhen's peripheral vision catches a flash of red light in An Biluo's eyes.

Pei Jiya, demonstrating his extensive knowledge, elaborates on the brutal process of harvesting agarwood resin in the Kingdom of Moluo, where slaves risk their lives, implying that Wu Zhen's judgment is influenced by the human cost involved. Mei Zhuyu, observing Pei Jiya, notes his impressive scholarship. Several subsequent contestants also receive a "Common" rating. Finally, Pei Jiya steps forward to present his own creation, an incense he names "Jiushi Incense."

Mei Zhuyu, noticing Pei Jiya's flirtatious glances towards Wu Zhen, is annoyed. Despite its plain name, the moment the "Jiushi Incense" begins to diffuse its ethereal aroma, it casts a spell over the judges and audience, intoxicating them and seemingly transporting them to cherished memories of the past. All the judges find themselves deeply immersed in its enchanting fragrance.

Episode 16 Recap

Pei Jiya, having suffered from asthma since childhood, was often bullied by other children due to his frail health. Wu Zhen always came to his defense, and the two became close playmates who shared a passion for blending incense. Young Wu Zhen once suggested they blend incense together, listing ingredients like plum blossom buds, azalea, La tea powder, wild turmeric, patchouli, licorice, and white honey, showcasing their shared interest.

Years later, at an incense assembly, Pei Jiya presented his creation, the "Jiushi Incense." Wu Zhen found it deeply moving, stirring memories of a garden in full bloom from their childhood, and rated it as "Exquisite." An Biluo, a master perfumer, questioned why Pei Jiya, having traveled so far, chose such common ingredients.

Pei Jiya openly confessed his feelings for Wu Zhen, stating that his incense burned only for one person and that he did not seek to please everyone, but only her. Following the other presentations, An Biluo took the stage as the final contestant. He unveiled his "Qiling Incense," accompanied by a rare censer carved from the Sky-piercing Horn of Linyi, a treasure he claimed was less valuable than the ingredients within.

He announced the main ingredients were "phoenix feathers" and "dragon scales," ground into powder and blended with hundreds of other spices, then sealed for a thousand days. However, when he publicly lit the incense, an unbearable stench filled the hall. While An Biluo appeared entranced, others whispered about the foul odor, some even calling it "rancid." Despite this, the judges, wary of An Biluo's status, hesitantly offered high praise.

Wu Zhen, however, was unequivocal, declaring the scent sinister and reminiscent of a fowl pen. Mei Zhuyu, seated beside her, nodded in agreement. Enraged by Wu Zhen’s honesty, An Biluo changed drastically, revealing that his "dragon scales" were pangolin scales and his "phoenix feathers" came from white geese. He chillingly described the brutal method of extraction, where the most terrified goslings yielded the richest scent from their neck feathers.

As he finished speaking with a maniacal laugh, a dark wind swept through the hall, and a deluge of goose feathers, like an avalanche, cascaded in from outside, plunging everyone into chaos. Mei Zhuyu's eyes turned cold as he swiftly formed a hand seal, his robes fluttering in the gale, ready to act. He chanted an incantation to purify the mind, sharpen focus, and dispel dark fiends and evil.

Wu Zhen and Ling Xiao, sensing something amiss with An Biluo, used their magic to transport him across a river. Ling Xiao, revealing himself as the Cat Master of the Beast Market, attempted to coax the demon goose possessing An Biluo out, appealing to its suffering and offering a new body and justice in the Beast Market.

However, the powerful demon goose, skeptical of Ling Xiao's lack of demon power and accusing him of stalling, retaliated by injuring Ling Xiao and then seizing Wu Zhen by the throat. While the others searched frantically for the missing Wu Zhen and An Biluo, Mei Zhuyu used his abilities to observe them from afar. Seeing Wu Zhen in peril, he leaped across the river, striking the demon with a forceful punch that expelled it from An Biluo’s body.

The freed demon immediately fled, vanishing like a shadow. As everyone else arrived, Pei Jiya rushed to Wu Zhen's side, asking if she was alright. Wu Zhen’s gaze, however, remained fixed on Pei Jiya alone. Seeing this, Mei Zhuyu silently turned and left. Mei Si, excited by Mei Zhuyu's display of power, asked why he had kept it secret, while others from the Jinwu Guards tried to recruit Mei Zhuyu to their ranks.

Meanwhile, during the chaos, Pei Jiya had secretly obtained the Qijiao resin and delivered it to his benefactor. A flashback revealed that years ago, Pei Jiya was attacked by bandits on his journey from the capital and saved by a mysterious black-clad figure who taught him dark magic. Reflecting on Mei Zhuyu's recent use of magic, which bore a striking resemblance to his benefactor’s, Pei Jiya began to suspect that Mei Zhuyu might also be connected to the Changxi Palace.

Mei Zhuyu tracked the escaped demon goose to a dilapidated house. There, he spoke to the resentful spirit, acknowledging its suffering and its intention to warn against cruelty rather than harm innocents. He reassured it that An Biluo would face justice and constant fear. Mei Zhuyu then performed a ritual to resolve the demon’s resentment, helping it to reincarnate. Soon after, Wu Zhen arrived, having followed clues from An Biluo’s possessed words.

Inside the house, she was horrified by the sight of numerous animal carcasses, realizing the true extent of An Biluo's cruel practices to create incense and why a tormented spirit had possessed him. Mei Zhuyu explained that while many bodies remained, there was still a living creature. They discovered a small, live duckling, which Wu Zhen immediately decided to take home.

Upon returning to her manor with the duckling, Wu Zhen was surprised to find her father, Duke Wu, had returned from his travels. He had heard the rumors about two young men living in his house and jokingly called the duckling his "grandson." Seeing Mei Zhuyu, Mei Si, and Pei Jiya, Duke Wu playfully inquired which of the three young men was to be his future son-in-law.

Pei Jiya promptly declared his purpose in coming to Chang'an was to seek Wu Zhen's hand in marriage and sought the Duke’s permission. Duke Wu did not give a direct answer, instead handing the duckling to Mei Zhuyu. Mei Si, still smitten with Liu Taizhen, anxiously asked Wu Zhen about her. Wu Zhen explained that Liu Taizhen was ill but not seriously, and was currently not in Chang'an but would return in about three days.

Mei Si fretted over the news, expressing his desire to show Liu Taizhen his reproductions of "Notes on Demons and Oddities." He then wondered if her illness was related to a giant white serpent he had seen at her residence, but Xuan Hui said he would need to see it to know. Meanwhile, Liu Taizhen, alone in the mountains preparing to shed her skin, witnessed a black-clad figure mercilessly draining the spiritual essence from a rabbit demon.

Though she wished to intervene, her weakened state prevented her from engaging in a fight, forcing her to flee quickly as the figure's subordinate advised to finish the task quickly. In the Beast Market, a dispute arose between the Zhuan fish demon of Tangquan Baths and the little demons of the massage parlor over business. Wu Zishu invited Wu Zhen to mediate, as he found the situation strangely familiar, like an old case repeating itself.

Wu Zhen, despite her aversion to looking at ledgers, agreed to review the accounts with Wu Zishu to uncover the problem. The next day, Mei Si and Xuan Hui waited impatiently outside Liu Taizhen's residence. As she didn't appear, Xuan Hui, bored, urged Mei Si to take him sightseeing and buy food. Mei Si indulged him, describing the diverse food in Chang'an, including water basin mutton, beef tripe, thousand-layer pastry, and drunken chicken roll.

They stopped at a food stall, where Xuan Hui, in his true form, jumped into a bucket of eels, prompting Mei Si to purchase one for him. Xuan Hui later complained about being hit by the vendor, though Mei Si reminded him the vendor had a knife. They then proceeded to an ink shop. Mei Si explained that it was for painting, not eating, as Xuan Hui initially thought.

Mei Si wished to buy some fine styrax ink, but the shopkeeper informed him that a wealthy customer had recently bought all the good ink. However, he then produced a consigned inkstone, praising its "smooth texture and lustrous as lacquer," claiming it was even better than styrax ink. Mei Si was delighted with the quality and bought it. As Mei Si and Xuan Hui left, the shopkeeper watched them go, a strange smile playing on his lips.

Later, as Wu Zhen peacefully slept in the Beast Market, Wu Zishu watched over her with deep affection. A residual soul appeared, addressing Wu Zishu by his true name, "Lord Qiangyi." Angered by the interruption to his time alone with Wu Zhen, Wu Zishu furiously drove the residual soul away, stating that he would not allow anyone, not even the Heavenly Emperor, to disturb them. Once the residual soul departed, Wu Zishu turned back to Wu Zhen’s sleeping face, his gaze softening once more.

Episode 17 Recap

Mei Si returned to his residence, admiring a newly acquired piece of ink. He decided to use it to paint a demon album as a gift for Liu Taizhen. He asked Xuan Hui, whom he affectionately called "Little Loach" despite Xuan Hui's insistence on being a "black serpent," to describe demons for him. Xuan Hui found Mei Si's existing demon book, "Notes on Demons and Oddities," simplistic.

As a token of gratitude for Mei Si's care, Xuan Hui offered to recount tales of unrecorded demons, beginning with a powerful, thousand-year-old shapeshifting tiger demon. He described its fiery appearance, sharp fangs, and its weak point between its brows. Mei Si diligently painted as he listened, but Xuan Hui, upon seeing the finished artwork, sarcastically remarked that such a fearsome creature had been depicted in such a way, though he conceded it was "unique."

Mei Si, however, was pleased with his "lifelike" painting. That night, the painted tiger demon materialized. Xuan Hui observed, realizing the ink was imbued with dark magic. He did not interfere, seeing an opportunity to stir up trouble for the Beast Market. Meanwhile, Wu Zhen sensed a sudden surge of ominous energy in the city. Rushing to a deep alley, she confronted a large, black-striped white tiger radiating dark mist and malice.

The ink tiger demon lunged, but Wu Zhen skillfully evaded its sharp claws. After a fierce, intense battle, Wu Zhen subdued the creature, noting afterward that it lacked a demon core. Following the Incense Assembly, gossip about Wu Zhen's personal life, Mei Zhuyu, and Pei Jiya surged through Chang'an. Mei Zhuyu's subordinate reported these rumors to him, also relaying news of a demon sighting. Mei Zhuyu confirmed the report, finding large tiger paw prints in an alley.

Simultaneously, Mei Si awoke to a disturbing sight: the tiger in his painting had faded, and bloody paw prints stained his room. He frantically called for Xuan Hui, but as he did, the blood transformed into ink. Xuan Hui casually dismissed it as Mei Si's sleep-deprived imagination and suggested his ink grinding was faulty, which Mei Si vehemently denied.

Despite Mei Si's confusion, Xuan Hui continued his tales, describing other unique and dangerous demons such as the pomegranate demon Pining, a toxic deer demon with eyes on its back, a ruthless dice demon born from spilled blood, and a wind-wielding urn demon. As Xuan Hui narrated, Mei Si continued painting, his expression growing increasingly captivated and fervent.

Xuan Hui then warned that the recent appearance of an ever-changing ink demon in Chang'an would soon plunge the city into panic, a prediction quickly confirmed by widespread public rumors. Mei Zhuyu, noticing how rapidly these rumors spread despite efforts to contain them, suspected someone was intentionally fueling the panic. Mei Zhuyu, suspecting someone was intentionally fueling the panic and linking it to a forbidden "suppression technique," personally investigated the ink shops.

He explained that this technique involves a caster imbuing part of their consciousness into an object, using their own body as a sacrifice, allowing them to control the object. The disappearing tiger demon, which left no physical form, was a clear sign of this. At an ink shop, the nervous shopkeeper, after initially resisting, reluctantly handed over his ledger to Mei Zhuyu. Mei Zhuyu was startled to find his cousin Mei Si's name among the buyers.

After Mei Zhuyu left, Hu Zhu arrived, demanding to see the same ledger, which the shopkeeper, after a brief protest, readily provided. Mei Zhuyu rushed to the Mei Residence. Upon entering, he was horrified to find Mei Si surrounded by numerous paintings covering the walls. Mei Si, with a pale face, unfocused eyes, and a chilling aura, was clearly under a malevolent influence, yet he continued to paint obsessively on the floor.

Realizing the ink demons originated from these artworks, Mei Zhuyu's suspicions solidified. He immediately dragged his possessed cousin into a large water tank in the courtyard, dismissing the alarmed attempts of others to intervene. Mei Si thrashed violently in the water, expelling a thick, swirling orange mist from his mouth and nose. Only after the mist dissipated did he gradually regain consciousness, disoriented and asking, "Why am I here? What happened to me?"

Empress Wu summoned Wu Zhen to the palace, expressing concern over her unmarried status and urging her to choose a husband between Mei Zhuyu and Pei Jiya. Empress Wu acknowledged Mei Zhuyu's bravery in saving Wu Zhen but noted his humble background, while Pei Jiya, a childhood friend with matching status, would require Wu Zhen to move to Kunzhou upon marriage.

Wu Zhen, however, firmly declared her refusal to marry without true love, stating she would rather live a "free and happy" single life. Her steadfast resolve angered Empress Wu, but Wu Zhen excused herself, claiming urgent matters. Soon after, Princess Yuan Zhen, Wu Zhen's niece, saw Mei Si and Xuan Hui in the palace. Mei Si mentioned he had told Xuan Hui that Wu Zhen was also visiting, and that Xuan Hui had thanked her for "curing" him.

Xuan Hui dismissed this, claiming it was merely "the wind shaking the trees" and denying any thanks. Meanwhile, ink demons continued to appear across Chang'an, attacking not only Wu Zhen and Mei Si but also ordinary citizens. During an attack, Mei Si found himself vulnerable to an ink demon. Xuan Hui, whose demonic power was still recovering, tried to protect Mei Si, telling him to hide in his arms, though Mei Si confidently rejected the offer.

Xuan Hui privately lamented his weakened state. Meanwhile, Wu Zhen, despite her human limitations, struggled against a powerful ink deer demon that threatened Princess Yuan Zhen. In a desperate moment, the White Tea Tree, who had been given the name "Hua" by Yuan Zhen and had blossomed due to their connection, used its remaining strength to destroy itself and the ink deer demon. Its spirit dissipated in Yuan Zhen's arms, leaving the princess devastated.

As Chang'an descended into chaos with widespread ink demon attacks, Mei Zhuyu took decisive action, planning to lure the demons out of the city before drawing his Celestial Master Sword to eradicate them single-handedly. Meanwhile, Pei Jiya received a report confirming the ink demons' defeat, leaving him anxious about his benefactor discovering his failed plan and wondering where he went wrong. Afterward, Hu Zhu informed Wu Zhen that she had discovered the origin of the ink demons.

Wu Zhen then went to the Mei Residence to check on Mei Si. There, she found Mei Zhuyu, who explained that Mei Si had been "not in his right mind" due to a "suppression technique" and he had intervened to help him recover. Mei Si, now lucid, revealed that his father had scolded him, blaming his possession on reading too many strange tales. Mei Zhuyu inquired about the enchanted ink, and Mei Si confirmed it was all used up.

Seeing Mei Si recovered, Mei Zhuyu decided to leave and invited Wu Zhen to accompany him. As Wu Zhen bid Mei Si farewell, she discreetly noticed a peculiar mark on his wrist but chose to ignore it.

Episode 18 Recap

Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen walked along a stone path in the Duke’s manor under the night sky. Wu Zhen questioned Mei Zhuyu about his prolonged stay, hinting that it might lead to misunderstandings from the Duke. She reminded him that while she once boasted of being able to support ten of him, merely affording it was different from truly desiring it, especially since he had initially said he was leaving.

Mei Zhuyu countered that she never cared about others' opinions, but Wu Zhen retorted that she might start now, as her father frequently asked her to choose between Mei Zhuyu and her cousin, Pei Jiya, and she needed excuses to prevent her father from misunderstanding. Just as Mei Zhuyu was about to speak, Wu Zhen stopped, her gaze fixed on a nearby stone post.

Pei Jiya emerged, stating he had come out to wait for her, concerned she had not yet returned. Wu Zhen playfully reminded him that her love for nightlife and late returns was normal, so there was no need for worry. Pei Jiya complimented her wit, then questioned Mei Zhuyu's presence, wondering if they had been enjoying music and dancing together. Mei Zhuyu simply stated they had "happened to bump into each other."

Pei Jiya commented on their apparent fate to cross paths, to which Mei Zhuyu confidently affirmed his bond with Wu Zhen. As Wu Zhen headed inside, Pei Jiya stumbled, and she instinctively steadied him. Mei Zhuyu's sharp eyes caught a glimpse of a strange black mist swirling in Pei Jiya's right eye. Once Wu Zhen was inside, Mei Zhuyu and Pei Jiya stood in subtle confrontation outside the door.

Mei Zhuyu warned Pei Jiya to be more careful where he walked, but Pei Jiya retorted that with Wu Zhen by his side, he had no worries. Pei Jiya then mused that Chang'an was not as lively as Kunzhou, suggesting Wu Zhen visit. Mei Zhuyu calmly countered that Kunzhou was peaceful, its people living tranquil lives. Pei Jiya asked Mei Zhuyu if he thought Wu Zhen would accept his proposal, to which Mei Zhuyu replied, "I think she will."

Pei Jiya then proudly claimed that no one else had cherished Wu Zhen in their heart for over a decade as he had, treating her like a unique treasure. He reminded Mei Zhuyu of his past congratulations on their friendship, implying Mei Zhuyu should not go back on his word.

Mei Zhuyu, having found Pei Jiya's name in the ink workshop's account books, clarified that his congratulations were conditional on their "true sincerity," questioning whether Pei Jiya and Wu Zhen were indeed sincere toward each other. This pointed remark solidified Pei Jiya’s resolve to have him killed. As Mei Zhuyu walked away, he handed Pei Jiya a lantern, once again advising him to see clearly when walking at night.

Pei Jiya's attendant tried to console him, but Pei Jiya, eyes filled with malice, stated that Mei Zhuyu was an "eyesore" and would "have to die anyway." Later, Wu Zhen returned to the Beast Market. She gave an ink block to Wu Zishu, asking him to retrieve something for her from the Demon Prison. Ling Xiao, noticing the strange scent of the ink block, identified it as the rare Qijiao resin.

Wu Zishu explained he would seal the ink block deep within the prison to prevent further trouble, as someone had used dark magic on it. After Wu Zishu left, Ling Xiao, surprised by the ink block's shapeshifting power due to the Qijiao resin, concluded there was more to the situation.

He instructed Hu Zhu to find another piece of Qijiao resin to cover up the matter, preventing further investigation by the Jinwu Guards, as the resin was linked to the ink demon. Hu Zhu revealed she now owned the restaurant and the general store, procuring a piece of Qijiao resin for Ling Xiao for free. At the Demon Prison, Wu Zishu, guided by Elder Bai, passed through numerous restrictions to the third level, which had housed the now-escaped Xuan Hui.

Wu Zishu retrieved the Zhaoming Mirror, which recorded the past crimes of demon offenders, stating it was necessary to track Xuan Hui. As they passed a particularly secure cell, Wu Zishu paused. Elder Bai explained it was the most heavily guarded cell, capable of inhibiting demonic powers, and had been intended for the Sinister Fiend Infant that attacked Chang'an eighteen years ago, but it was killed by the previous Cat Spirit, leaving the cell empty.

Elder Bai recounted how the fiend once declared itself the greatest god, destined to control everything, but had ultimately vanished into dust. Wu Zishu remained silent, recalling his own past as a subordinate of the Sinister Fiend Infant, responsible for heinous crimes like the burning of Chang'an. He reflected that in the present world, Wu Zhen held far more importance to him than the past, or even his own life.

Meanwhile, Mei Si anxiously sought news of Liu Taizhen, whose family reported her missing for days. Wu Zhen tried to reassure him that Liu Taizhen was merely unwell and would be fine. Mei Si worried about the rumors of demons in Chang'an. Wu Zishu intervened, directing Mei Si to search for Liu Taizhen on Luwei Mountain, south of Chang'an. Wu Zishu then spoke to Wu Zhen, observing her expression.

He told her that she often concerned herself with others' safety but overlooked that loving someone was life's greatest blessing, far more precious than merely surviving alone, a sentiment he shared. However, Wu Zhen's expression remained impassive, leaving Wu Zishu somewhat disappointed. The next morning, Mei Zhuyu and Pei Jiya joined the Duke for breakfast. Pei Jiya, noting Mei Zhuyu's surprise at the lavish meal, explained it was normal for a Duke's residence.

He reiterated his sincere intention to marry Wu Zhen, promising she would be the head lady of the Pei family and he would never take a concubine. The Duke asked Mei Zhuyu for his thoughts on marriage, to which Mei Zhuyu calmly stated he had no such intentions. Wu Zhen then asked for his opinion on her marriage to Pei Jiya, and Mei Zhuyu responded that it depended entirely on her own desires.

Their meal was interrupted by Eunuch Feng, who urgently summoned the Duke and Wu Zhen to the palace. Princess Yuan Zhen's cherished white tea tree had mysteriously withered and been ordered cut down, leaving the princess heartbroken and inconsolable. After the Duke and Wu Zhen departed for the palace, Mei Zhuyu secretly observed Pei Jiya from the rafters. He saw Pei Jiya performing a ritual, making incense with bird feathers and applying blood to his right eye.

Detecting Mei Zhuyu's presence, Pei Jiya stopped and confronted him. Mei Zhuyu accused Pei Jiya of creating demonic disturbances to cause chaos in Chang'an, but Pei Jiya vehemently denied it, dismissing rumors of demons as mere gossip. Mei Zhuyu, however, remained unconvinced, warning Pei Jiya that those who walk in darkness will eventually be consumed by it. At the palace, Wu Zhen found Princess Yuan Zhen distraught, surrounded by the Emperor and Empress attempting to console her.

Yuan Zhen clung to the belief that her beloved white tea tree would recover and bloom again. Alone with Yuan Zhen, Wu Zhen gently encouraged the princess to share the story of her bond with the tree. Yuan Zhen recounted a childhood memory of getting lost during a trip south, where the white tea tree had protected her from wild beasts.

Touched by this tale and knowing the tree had sacrificed itself to protect its beloved master, Wu Zhen performed a spiritual art, sealing the tree's essence into a white tea flower hairpin, which she then gave to Yuan Zhen. The princess's face lit up with a smile, finally finding peace. Later, Empress Wu discussed Wu Zhen's marriage with the Duke.

While the Duke favored Pei Jiya for his steady character and promise of no concubines, Empress Wu, suspecting Wu Zhen's heart lay elsewhere, subtly suggested a test. The Duke invited Mei Zhuyu and Pei Jiya to drink a supposedly mild "Apricot Gold" fruit beverage. He plied them with it until they were both thoroughly inebriated, intending to observe who Wu Zhen would care for first upon her return.

Wu Zhen, seeing through the Empress's scheme, returned and immediately offered to escort Pei Jiya to his room. She did so with a gentle smile, but once out of Pei Jiya's sight, her expression turned cold. Mei Zhuyu, left alone at the table, mistakenly believed Wu Zhen had made her choice and began to drink by himself.

However, Wu Zhen then unexpectedly appeared before him, commenting on his heavy drinking, despite his earlier claim of not drinking, and warned him about the potent after-effects of the "Apricot Gold." Mei Zhuyu questioned why she was concerned about him when she had just seen her cousin to his room.

Episode 19 Recap

Wu Zhen sat beside Mei Zhuyu, observing him as he drank. She noted that unlike others when drunk, he didn't make a scene but simply clutched the wine jar. Wu Zhen teased him, remarking she thought he didn't drink and that his current consumption was a waste of fine Apricot Gold wine, which should be savored slowly due to its strong after-effect. Mei Zhuyu, annoyed, questioned why she bothered with him instead of escorting her cousin.

As night fell, Wu Zhen helped the heavily intoxicated Mei Zhuyu back to his room. Suddenly, he looked up and gazed at her, declaring she was "a fruit that fell from my tree." This unexpected remark stirred Wu Zhen's memories of their first meeting. Still, Mei Zhuyu continued to warn her to stay away from Pei Jiya, calling him "no good." Wu Zhen affectionately agreed that "Our Young Master Mei is the best."

Unable to support himself, he eventually leaned into her arms and fell into a deep sleep, leaving Wu Zhen pondering his unspoken thoughts. Mei Si, worried about Liu Taizhen, journeyed alone to Mountain Luwei to visit her. He found her lying on a couch, pale and urging him to leave.

Instead of retreating, Mei Si noticed a winding snake tail by the couch, recalling a snake demon he had once encountered at the Liu manor, and suspected a demon was possessing her. In a moment of panic, he yanked away the covers, only to discover Liu Taizhen's true form—a snake coiled on the bed. Terrified, he cried out and stumbled backward, then fled in a hurry. Liu Taizhen watched his retreating figure, her eyes reflecting a profound sadness.

Later that night, Liu Taizhen heard a noise outside. Fearing Mei Si had returned with others to capture her, much like a heartless lover from her past, she began to gather her demonic energy, ready for a fight. To her surprise, Mei Si entered alone, carrying a bucket of water and a basket of mulberry leaves.

He explained that he had learned from "Records of Strange Demons" that snake demons are extremely weak during shedding and require aloe, boxwood, and mulberry leaves. Unable to find the first two, he had gathered various fresh mulberry leaves. Liu Taizhen gazed at his sincere, smiling face, her heart stirred, and she remained speechless. The next morning, Wu Zhen and Pei Jiya left the manor together for an outing, sparking rumors in the capital that their engagement was imminent.

Mei Zhuyu's colleague delivered the requested scrolls on dark magic, using the opportunity to prod Mei Zhuyu, suggesting he should be more proactive if he truly cared for Wu Zhen. Mei Zhuyu, appearing calm, responded that he wasn't worried about her affection for another, but rather feared she might choose the wrong person. Inside the carriage, Pei Jiya noticed Wu Zhen seemed disengaged and suggested they visit the countryside.

However, Wu Zhen suddenly proposed they go to the Lin'an River instead. Meanwhile, in the Demon Market, Wu Zishu overheard gossip about Wu Zhen and Pei Jiya's constant companionship, which ignited jealousy within him and allowed a malevolent residual soul within his body to take advantage of his vulnerability. When Wu Zhen later noticed his strange demeanor, Wu Zishu quickly brushed it off as a nightmare and gave her the Zhaoming Mirror.

Wu Zhen, suspecting nothing, simply asked him for another favor. Mei Si kept vigil by Liu Taizhen's bedside throughout the night. Seeing her awaken and realizing the mulberry leaves were almost gone, he set out to gather more. At a village entrance, he witnessed two crude men displaying a "snake demon" in a cage, drawing a crowd of villagers. The caged woman appeared distressed, evoking Mei Si's compassion.

After the crowd dispersed, he discreetly entered the courtyard to investigate and discovered the woman was not a snake demon at all. Liu Taizhen grew concerned when Mei Si did not return, so she went out to find him. Unbeknownst to them, the two evil men were secretly watching. They had kidnapped the innocent woman and forced her to impersonate a snake demon for their scams. Seeing Mei Si attempting to rescue the woman, they rushed out to corner him.

The woman, touched by Mei Si's kindness, had a change of heart and helped him escape. Liu Taizhen, hidden in the shadows, used her magic to subdue the two scoundrels. After they had escaped to safety, the woman confessed her plight to Mei Si, pleading to serve him for the rest of her life. Mei Si gently declined, explaining that his fiancée was waiting for him at home. Liu Taizhen, who had witnessed this exchange, was moved by his loyalty.

Now, Mei Si harbored no fear of Liu Taizhen's snake form; instead, he felt admiration and tenderness, which only strengthened his desire to marry her. Liu Taizhen's expression remained serene, but a hint of softness flickered in her eyes. Together, they returned to Chang'an. Mei Zhuyu saw Pei Jiya's betrothal gifts being delivered to the Duke's manor and heard that Pei Jiya was alone with Wu Zhen.

Concerned for Wu Zhen's safety, he immediately rushed to the Lin'an River, unaware that he was walking straight into Pei Jiya's trap. Wu Zhen sat alone on a pleasure boat, reading a scroll that described someone trading their flesh and blood with evil spirits for power, eventually becoming a demon themselves. Pei Jiya smiled faintly without replying. Sensing Mei Zhuyu's arrival, he lit a secret incense in the censer, activating a containment array.

Mei Zhuyu found his magic suppressed by the incense, making it difficult to fight, so he struggled to hold his ground. Wu Zhen, no longer pretending, tossed the book she was holding to Pei Jiya and leaped into the Lin'an River. Pei Jiya was momentarily flustered, only to see the book transform into Wu Zishu, who swiftly overpowered him. Wu Zhen, after her dive, emerged from the water and rescued Mei Zhuyu. With both of them now caught in the formation, Wu Zishu, seeing Pei Jiya's stubborn defiance, struck him unconscious with a flick of his sleeve.

Episode 20 Recap

Wu Zishu found Wu Zhen and Mei Zhuyu trapped in a powerful formation Pei Jiya had set. Wu Zishu confronted Pei Jiya, demanding to know how to break the array. Pei Jiya, with a sinister smile, admitted the formation was designed to kill Mei Zhuyu, stating it was incredibly intricate and required a blood and flesh sacrifice, meaning one of them was destined to die even if the core was found.

As the surrounding rocks began to close in, threatening their lives, Mei Zhuyu finally confessed his feelings to Wu Zhen. He revealed that he had fallen for her back in the flower fields of the western outskirts but had hesitated to express his love, fearing he would bring her harm. With his confession, Mei Zhuyu forcefully pushed Wu Zhen out of the formation, plunging himself into the deep chasm as a swirling black mist swallowed him whole.

Standing outside the perilous rocks, Wu Zhen cried out Mei Zhuyu's name in anguish. Wu Zishu, enraged, was about to end Pei Jiya's life when a flash of light burst from the formation. Mei Zhuyu, having discerned the array's core, swiftly struck and pierced Pei Jiya’s right eye. Despite showing signs of petrification, Mei Zhuyu miraculously unleashed a surge of spiritual power, shattering the formation's restraints from within.

As the dust settled, Wu Zhen rushed to embrace the staggering Mei Zhuyu, holding him tightly. Returning to the boat, Wu Zhen and Mei Zhuyu found Pei Jiya with his right eye bleeding profusely. Pei Jiya admitted his hatred stemmed from jealousy and his desire to eliminate Mei Zhuyu. However, Wu Zhen discerned his deeper machinations, accusing him of orchestrating the recent ink demon chaos in the capital.

She recounted her suspicions, which began when an attendant at Ruyi Pavilion, unusually, lit an incense upon Pei Jiya's arrival, causing her to mistake him for Mei Zhuyu. Further reports from Hu Zhu of his frequent presence in the ink room had only solidified her misgivings.

Pei Jiya desperately claimed all his actions were to win her affection, explaining that he had sacrificed his right eye to acquire the suppression technique, hoping to become strong enough to be worthy of her love and make her admire him. Wu Zhen, however, furiously chastised him for his cold-hearted refusal to save her when she was trapped in his formation. Pei Jiya admitted he hesitated, but asserted it was human nature, claiming Mei Zhuyu would have done the same.

Despite Pei Jiya's suffering from the dark magic's backlash, Mei Zhuyu, in an act of compassion, removed the arrow from his eye. Wu Zhen, under the guise of allowing him to recuperate, ordered Pei Jiya to go to Kunzhou and never return to the capital, ensuring the Emperor would remain oblivious to the incident and avoiding potential court turmoil. Meanwhile, Mei Si escorted Liu Taizhen back to the capital, vowing to keep her secret.

Liu Taizhen, however, maintained a deliberate distance, urging him to abandon his feelings for her, but Mei Si secretly resolved to formally marry her someday. Pei Jiya, on his journey south with his maids, still harbored a faint hope that his dark magic could yet win Wu Zhen. He then received a secret message from his benefactor, revealing Mei Zhuyu to be a Celestial Master of Changxi Palace.

Pei Jiya speculated that Mei Zhuyu's hidden identity must serve a deeper purpose, and he eagerly anticipated the downfall of Mei Zhuyu’s and Wu Zhen's relationship. That night, Xuan Hui led Mei Si to Qiu Pond in the east, which he revealed to be the birthplace of his kind. He then plunged into the water, vanishing instantly. Mei Si, worried for his safety, watched as the pond water churned violently, and a massive black snake burst forth, its scales shimmering.

In an instant, the serpent transformed into a handsome young man dressed in black. Just then, Liu Taizhen arrived under the moonlight, forming hand seals and pointing at Xuan Hui. She fiercely rebuked him for the massacre of innocents after his escape from the Beast Market. Xuan Hui scoffed, showing no remorse, and claimed his victims deserved to die. The two immediately engaged in battle.

As Liu Taizhen had recently undergone molting, her magical power was not yet fully recovered, leaving her vulnerable. She struggled against Xuan Hui, eventually finding herself outmatched. Unable to restrain himself, Mei Si bravely rushed forward, positioning his mortal body in front of Liu Taizhen to shield her from the demonic power, leaving Liu Taizhen stunned. Seeing Mei Si's self-sacrificing act, Xuan Hui paused his attack, rebuking Liu Taizhen for her heartlessness and disregard for their shared kin.

As tensions escalated between them, Wu Zhen suddenly appeared, her powerful aura instantly silencing the confrontation. Mei Si realized that Wu Zhen was, in fact, the Cat Spirit, while Xuan Hui was shocked that his whereabouts had been discovered. Wu Zhen struck Xuan Hui twice, retaliating for his past transgressions, including his collusion with the Hui Sect during the Sky Lantern Festival and his involvement in the ink demon chaos.

Liu Taizhen, still intent on punishing Xuan Hui, was stopped by Wu Zhen, who presented the Clarifying Mirror to reveal Xuan Hui's past. The mirror showed Xuan Hui as a young, injured Little Ying Dragon, cowering in a corner of the Beast Market, subjected to extreme bullying until he finally retaliated and killed his tormentors. Witnessing this, Liu Taizhen fell silent. As the Serpent Master, she pardoned Xuan Hui's remaining twenty-year sentence, acknowledging his sympathetic circumstances.

Recognizing that he was nearing his ascension, Wu Zhen allowed him to remain in the mortal world, specifically at Mei's residence, under Mei Si's supervision. Later that night, Wu Zhen returned to her residence to find Mei Zhuyu waiting for her outside. He mustered his courage to express his love, apologizing for his past hesitation and vowing to protect her and ensure no one, not even himself, would ever harm her again as he gently applied medicine to her injuries.

Episode 21 Recap

At Ruyi Pavilion, Hu Zhu confronts an informant she discovers has been relaying information to Pei Jiya. The informant tearfully pleads for another chance, but Hu Zhu sternly dismisses them, asserting that serving two masters leaves one empty-handed, especially now that Pei Jiya has left Chang'an. She instructs the informant to collect their wages, as Ruyi Pavilion will no longer employ them.

Meanwhile, at the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, Mei Zhuyu is noticeably distracted, often smiling to himself while reviewing documents. His colleagues, having heard rumors that he and Pei Jiya were both banished from Wu Zhen's residence due to their rivalry, express surprise at his cheerful demeanor, expecting him to be despondent. When Mei Zhuyu overhears them, he asks about their discussion.

They nervously claim to have been talking about Deputy Commander Huang, who, they explain, had to transfer a case to the Bureau because he was preoccupied with arranging a suitor for Wu Zhen. Wu Zhen, after a visit to the palace to address Pei Jiya's abrupt departure, arrives at Ruyi Pavilion. Hu Zhu remarks that at least Wu Zhen's frequent rejections make Pei Jiya's exit seem less unusual.

Deputy Commander Huang then proudly introduces Song Yao, Sima of Yizhou, as a potential match, touting his skills and suitability for Wu Zhen. Wu Zhen, unimpressed, playfully asks Song Yao what he admires about her, then dismisses the need for an answer. Mei Zhuyu arrives, ostensibly to return a case to Huang Yi, which he believes belongs to the Jinwu Guards.

Upon realizing Song Yao is Huang Yi's latest attempt at a match for Wu Zhen, Mei Zhuyu's expression darkens as he remarks, with veiled sarcasm, that they "really do match." Mei Zhuyu then pointedly questions Song Yao about various unresolved issues in Yizhou, including a drought, banditry, plague outbreaks, and floods. Song Yao stumbles, admitting his ignorance of these administrative matters.

Mei Zhuyu, emphasizing the responsibility of those in power, returns all the Jinwu Guard's cases to Huang Yi for re-examination, implying Huang Yi's focus on matchmaking is misplaced. He warns Song Yao that a "mistaken heart is like a misfired arrow," a pointed remark to a supposed expert archer. Wu Zhen, struggling to hide her amusement, watches as Mei Zhuyu takes her hand and leads her away. A stunned Huang Yi realizes that the rumors of their separation were false.

Song Yao later complains to Huang Yi that Mei Zhuyu's fierce glare made him feel like he had "stolen his woman." He advises Huang Yi to be more cautious when arranging future suitors for Wu Zhen, especially in Mei Zhuyu's presence.

Later, Wu Zhen asks Mei Zhuyu if he heard everything, to which he replies "a little," then reassures her that Huang Yi will no longer bother her with suitors, as the Jinwu Guards will be "very busy" with their reassigned cases. Wu Zhen invites Liu Taizhen to a night market, accompanied by Mei Zhuyu and Mei Si. Mei Si, still processing the news, enthusiastically greets Mei Zhuyu as "brother-in-law," prompting Mei Zhuyu to remind him they are cousins.

Mei Si remarks on the night market being a popular spot for lovers and praises Mei Zhuyu for bringing honor to the Mei family. Mei Zhuyu sincerely confesses his feelings for Wu Zhen. Liu Taizhen, though she had anticipated opposing the relationship, shares her own past regrets, advising Wu Zhen that while falling in love is easy, sustaining it is difficult, and hopes Wu Zhen avoids similar heartache.

Mei Si, seeing a reflection of his own situation in Mei Zhuyu's, now genuinely hopes for their happiness. Wu Zhen, however, declares her desire to live in the moment and accept whatever the future holds, even if love fades, believing that "a lifetime isn't just for one lover." Convinced, Liu Taizhen grants her blessing but warns her not to come crying if her heart gets broken.

As the first snow of the year begins to fall, Mei Zhuyu, surprised as it never snows in his hometown of Qizhou, recalls his late mother's tradition of boiling three eggs for blessings and peace. A poignant flashback shows him as a child, choosing an egg from his mother and giving the largest one to his father. Wu Zhen, noticing Mei Zhuyu's emotional state, gently reaches out to comfort him but then spots Wu Zishu in an alley.

She quickly tells Mei Zhuyu she's "going to buy something" and gives chase, with Liu Taizhen following. Mei Si waits behind, asking Mei Zhuyu when Wu Zhen will return. Wu Zishu, cornered by Wu Zhen, conjures "celestial fire," throwing the night market into chaos. Amidst the panic and the strange demon fire, Wu Zishu abducts an unconscious Wu Zhen and escapes to the Beast Market.

Mei Zhuyu, realizing the nature of the fire, covertly extinguishes it, then frantically searches for Wu Zhen and Liu Taizhen. Wu Zhen awakens in the Beast Market, where Wu Zishu confronts her about her relationship with Mei Zhuyu, questioning its authenticity and reminding her that she is a demon. Wu Zhen boldly affirms her love, asserting that as a half-demon, she is also human and deserves a lover. She expresses her desire to experience human life and its brief joys.

Wu Zishu observes her transformation, noting her increased skill and wisdom, a far cry from the timid "Cat Master" she once was. Wu Zhen confirms her growth, assuring him not to worry. When Wu Zishu speculates if she fell for Mei Zhuyu during the Twin Formation, Wu Zhen clarifies that her feelings developed earlier, possibly when he spoke of a woman's completeness independent of marriage, or when he unconditionally accepted her rebellious nature.

Despite Wu Zishu's dismissal of Mei Zhuyu as an "ordinary human," Wu Zhen passionately declares Mei Zhuyu's extraordinary significance to her. She reveals her lifelong struggle as a "half-demon outcast" in the Beast Market and an "unbridled and reckless woman" in the human world, feeling judged and adrift. Only with Mei Zhuyu, she states, does she find her true self and inner peace.

She firmly tells Wu Zishu that while she cherishes him as a "comrade and closest friend," Mei Zhuyu's love and acceptance are distinct. In a desperate plea, Wu Zishu confesses his own profound love, revealing he has lived solely for her for eighteen years, begging her to promise there will be no one else. When Wu Zhen remains steadfast in her position, seeing him only as her "closest friend," a heartbroken and enraged Wu Zishu orders her to leave.

Mei Zhuyu is desperately searching for Wu Zhen when Liu Taizhen appears, bringing a conscious Wu Zhen back. Mei Zhuyu, overcome with emotion, shares his fear that she had vanished just like his mother during a snowfall eighteen years ago. Wu Zhen apologizes for leaving him. She then presents him with a warm boiled egg, echoing his childhood memory and wishing him "blessings and long life, peace year after year," which deeply moves Mei Zhuyu.

Liu Taizhen observes their tender reunion with a blend of relief and wistful envy, while Mei Si's gaze remains fixed on Liu Taizhen. The next day, as rumors of their reconciliation spread, Mei Zhuyu is summoned to the palace by Empress Wu. He immediately kneels beside Wu Zhen. Emperor and Empress Wu, having heard the rumors, inquire about the seriousness of their relationship. Wu Zhen, slightly annoyed by her sister's constant meddling, suggests it's simply another one of her arrangements.

However, Mei Zhuyu clarifies that it is "no rumor" and that meeting Wu Zhen has helped him "understand some things." The Emperor then offers to issue an edict to formalize their betrothal. Wu Zhen reminds them that Mei Zhuyu had previously expressed no desire for marriage and protests against a forced betrothal. To everyone's surprise, Mei Zhuyu affirms his desire to marry Wu Zhen, declaring, "Now, I wish to marry her.

When Young Lady Wu agrees to marry me, that's when I'll marry her." He states he is "absolutely sure," bringing smiles to the faces of the Emperor and Empress. Mei Zhuyu bids farewell to Wu Zhen, explaining his need to return to Qizhou to inform his deceased master of their engagement. He promises to return in ten days. Wu Zhen, despite her concern about the long journey, agrees, trusting his word.

Mei Zhuyu then rides to Changxi Palace, where he finds his Fifth Senior Brother, Lu Yang, calmly fishing by a waterfall. Lu Yang teases Mei Zhuyu about returning from the "comforts of Chang'an." Mei Zhuyu playfully asks if Lu Yang was waiting for him, but Lu Yang responds he was merely waiting for the fish to "get fat." As they depart, they inadvertently trigger a pond formation created by their Third Senior Brother, Chi Hua.

Chi Hua appears, complaining about their Fourth Senior Brother, Shuang Jiang, who constantly eats the fruits used as hidden weapons in his formations, forcing Chi Hua to resort to a pond formation, which Shuang Jiang also used for fishing and grilling. Just then, Second Senior Brother Xiao Mu arrives, urging them to cease their "talk" and enter the palace. The three senior brothers and Mei Zhuyu then proceed into the majestic Changxi Palace as dusk settles.

Episode 22 Recap

Mei Zhuyu entered Changxi Palace accompanied by his senior brothers. Sect Master Chang Ming praised Mei Zhuyu for his recent journey to Chang'an, acknowledging his success in assisting the Mystic Appraisal Bureau, capturing demons, and discovering the location of the Beast Market.

While the other disciples were eager to descend the mountain immediately to confront the demons, Mei Zhuyu clarified that the recent ink tiger menace in the capital was not a demonic incursion but rather a result of human machinations. He explained that someone had used dark magic to create lesser demons for personal gain, and he had stumbled upon this scheme. Given this new information, Chang Ming agreed to postpone the immediate descent, opting for careful planning.

Following this, Chang Ming proposed promoting Mei Zhuyu to Chief Commander, commending his innate talent, profound skills, and unique understanding of the Beast Market. However, Mei Zhuyu humbly declined the offer, citing his lack of experience. He then revealed his true reason for returning to the Palace: to accept punishment. Mei Zhuyu confessed that he had "fallen in love with someone" in Chang'an and wished to "leave the sect, marry her, and share a life together."

As Mei Zhuyu knelt before his late Master Si Qing's spiritual tablet, he reflected on his past. He recalled a time as a young orphan, desperate for food, when he had chased a wild pheasant. He encountered Si Qing, who revealed the pheasant was actually an evil spirit. Si Qing, then the Celestial Master of Changxi Palace, offered to take Mei Zhuyu as a disciple, promising him sustenance and a purpose: to exorcise demons, dispel misfortune, and perform good deeds.

Mei Zhuyu readily accepted. Years later, a more studious Mei Zhuyu, having read about cultivators abstaining from worldly desires, once refused a roasted chicken from his Master. Si Qing playfully chided him for becoming "boring" and "clinging too tightly to books." He questioned Mei Zhuyu on the true meaning of "Tao" and his reasons for cultivating, emphasizing that true cultivation "begins with the heart" and encouraged him to "take your time with your life and seek it."

Back in the present, Sect Master Chang Ming attempted to dissuade Mei Zhuyu, suggesting his affections were merely a temporary infatuation from "Chang'an's prosperity." He offered to overlook the transgression if Mei Zhuyu would "mend your ways." Mei Zhuyu, however, stood firm. He passionately argued that love sprang from the heart and could not be changed.

He asserted that if he were to "admit fault against my own will" now, Chang Ming would never trust his resolve in a genuine life-or-death situation, questioning if he would then "seek gain and avoid loss, nor abandon righteousness just to survive." Witnessing Mei Zhuyu’s unwavering conviction, Chang Ming reluctantly stated he could no longer protect him.

He then announced the ancient Changxi Palace rule: any disciple seeking to leave the sect must enter the White Night Formation and "endure White Night Divine Birds passing through his body," a ritual that would sever all ties with the Palace. Mei Zhuyu, with quiet dignity, accepted this fate, expressing his gratitude. The other senior brothers discussed Chang Ming's decision, expressing deep concern for Mei Zhuyu.

They recounted a grim tale from a century ago, when a disciple who underwent the White Night Formation suffered unbearable pain for years before ultimately taking his own life. They worried Mei Zhuyu might not survive the ordeal. Meanwhile, unbeknownst to them, Second Senior Brother Xiaomu, on his way to his quarters, witnessed a mysterious figure in black silently placing an object into the eye of the White Night Formation, a sight that raised his alarm.

In the Beast Market, Wu Zhen publicly announced her impending marriage to Mei Zhuyu, causing a stir among the demons who gossiped about the "Cat Master marrying a mortal." An elder questioned the rumors, but Wu Zhen defiantly stated that her marriage was "what business is my marriage to you?" and challenged them to produce any "Demon Market Code" that prohibited her from marrying.

Elder Jin openly criticized her, accusing her of constantly trying to "break new ground" and bearing "resentment" towards tradition. Wu Zishu also vehemently objected. Wu Zhen, however, firmly declared, "My fate is controlled by no one. I'll take responsibility if it goes wrong." She warned Wu Zishu to "set your stance right" and reassured the elders that the Beast Market's rule of secrecy from mortals would "not change." She wished to "experience" what humans experienced.

Ten days passed, and Mei Zhuyu had yet to return to Chang'an. Duke Wu worried that his daughter might be jilted, though he also acknowledged Wu Zhen's own past actions of deceiving suitors, fearing she might be facing retribution. As soon as Duke Wu finished speaking, thunder rumbled, and he shook his head and left.

Wu Zhen, however, maintained her faith, assuring her father that "He will come back," even as he pointed out that it was "already the twelfth" day. In the bustling streets of the Beast Market, a betting pool had started on Mei Zhuyu's return. Many citizens placed bets on him abandoning Wu Zhen, convinced he would not return. Yet, Hu Zhu, with unwavering belief, wagered all her money on Mei Zhuyu's eventual return. Back at Changxi Palace, Mei Zhuyu remained kneeling.

Shuang Jiang, newly released from confinement, rushed to him, offering stolen buns and questioning Mei Zhuyu's stubbornness. Mei Zhuyu, however, reaffirmed his commitment, stating, "She's still waiting for me." He confided in Shuang Jiang that for eighteen years, his life had been solely devoted to uncovering the past and eliminating evil, devoid of joy or expectation. This changed the moment he met Wu Zhen; he could "never forget" her riding on horseback when he returned to Chang'an.

He believed their encounter was destiny, and for the first time, he felt "longings and desires for the future." He vowed, "I can't leave my loved one alone in Chang'an with dangers surrounding her. I must go back and protect her. I can't let what happened eighteen years ago happen again." With the eyes of the entire Changxi Palace upon him, Mei Zhuyu, stripped of all weapons, stepped into the White Night Formation.

Countless luminous blue birds descended from the sky, causing horror among the senior brothers. Mei Zhuyu bravely endured the first piercing of the bird feathers through his body. To everyone's shock, the flock circled back and pierced him a second time. Shuang Jiang, distraught, attempted to intervene but was held back by the formation's barrier.

Just as Mei Zhuyu began to succumb, losing consciousness and showing signs of petrification, an inner resolve, echoing his Master's teachings to "Hold the mind upright, and all illusions will shatter," empowered him. At that precise moment, Second Senior Brother Xiaomu, who had witnessed the mysterious figure earlier, secretly infused a strand of true qi into the formation. With a resonant clang, the Changxi Mace materialized, dispelling the attacking birds and gently lifting Mei Zhuyu from the ground.

Wu Zhen, though outwardly composed, had harbored concerns for Mei Zhuyu's safety but had found comfort in the thought of his deep cultivation. Her faith was rewarded; Mei Zhuyu, having miraculously survived two grueling bird-piercings, was found severely injured. Chang Ming offered him a temporary stay in the Palace for recovery. However, other disciples immediately protested, arguing that as he was no longer a sect member, he could not remain.

Mei Zhuyu himself, eager to return to Chang'an, declined the offer, stating he had "meeting someone" and needed to "hurry back." Before his departure, Chang Ming presented him with one final, difficult request: he must leave the Changxi Mace behind. Chang Ming explained that while the mace was a gift from their Master, it was intended for a disciple of Changxi Palace, "not for Mei Zhuyu, who abandons the sect for worldly desires."

Mei Zhuyu, recalling his Master's profound gesture of entrusting him with the mace and teaching him to wield it, felt a pang of sadness but ultimately complied, entrusting the cherished artifact to Chang Ming.

Episode 23 Recap

Sect Master Chang Ming reclaimed the Changxi Mace from Mei Zhuyu, reminding him that the weapon belonged to the Changxi Palace and he must consider the greater good, despite his attachment to Master's memories within it. Mei Zhuyu's junior brother, Shuang Jiang, tried to intervene, suggesting this was unkind, but Mei Zhuyu accepted his departure.

He declared that though he was leaving, he would not abandon his duty as a Celestial Master to slay demons and banish evil, as he now had someone precious to protect. Shuang Jiang reassured Mei Zhuyu that Chang Ming, as the First Senior Brother, was diligent and upright, making him the most suitable for the mace. Mei Zhuyu then entrusted the Changxi Mace to Chang Ming.

Before leaving, Chang Ming made Mei Zhuyu swear an oath: once he left the palace, he must never utter a word about Changxi Palace, or he would forever lose his loved ones and meet no good end. Mei Zhuyu solemnly swore, repeating the consequence. Xiaomu, the Second Senior Brother, accompanied Mei Zhuyu to the foot of the mountain and gifted him a horse, urging him to leave quickly and never return.

Mei Zhuyu wondered why Xiaomu, who had always been distant, would give him his prized horse, and also why he had helped him during the White Night Formation. Xiaomu explained that while he did not know Mei Zhuyu's reasons for coming to Changxi Palace, his own purpose there was solely for cultivation, and he would not tolerate defilement that took innocent lives in a place of purity. Mei Zhuyu thanked him.

As Xiaomu's figure disappeared, Mei Zhuyu looked back at Changxi Palace, recalling a childhood conversation with his Master. He had asked why his nine senior brothers had Dao names but he still used his secular one, and if he wasn't a true Changxi Palace disciple. His Master had explained that he knew Mei Zhuyu would one day leave Changxi, as he carried an unresolved obsession and unfinished fate that tethered him to the mortal world.

His Master had said that while his senior brothers sought their desires within Changxi, Mei Zhuyu's desires lay elsewhere. With this memory, Mei Zhuyu understood his true path. He offered three deep bows towards Changxi Palace and galloped towards the capital. In the depths of a dense forest, two maids waited by a carriage. Pei Jiya hurried along a mountain path, eager to meet his benefactor.

When the familiar figure of Sect Master Chang Ming emerged from the mist, Pei Jiya expressed his joy and pleaded for his benefactor to heal his ruined eyes. He listed his remaining faculties and his ability to cultivate dark arts, promising to do more for Chang Ming. However, Chang Ming coldly rebuked him for failing his task in Chang'an, declaring him useless now that he was blind.

Pei Jiya argued he had sent the ink demon as instructed, but unexpected events had occurred, asking for fair judgment. Chang Ming retorted that he wanted an uproar about demons in Chang'an to justify his own entry, but Pei Jiya's provocation had caused the demon to remain in Chang'an, ruining his grand plan. Chang Ming dismissed Pei Jiya as a fool and useless, stating that sparing his life was already lenient and he should simply leave and not return.

Enraged, Pei Jiya threatened to expose Chang Ming to other celestial masters of Changxi Palace. Chang Ming, unperturbed, attacked him, declaring he would pretend he had never saved him. As Pei Jiya lay wounded, he questioned Chang Ming's actions as a Celestial Master, citing the many benefits he had provided. Chang Ming merely called him "useless." Pei Jiya managed to flee to his carriage, only to find both his maids dead inside.

Wu Zishu then appeared, revealing he had been lying in wait to uncover the mastermind behind the Ruyi Pavilion plot against Wu Zhen, and since he had found the true culprit, Pei Jiya was now useless. Wu Zishu killed Pei Jiya to avenge Wu Zhen, specifically for using seductive incense to scheme against her in Ruyi Pavilion, vowing that such a despicable person would not appear before her again.

As he lay dying, Pei Jiya laughed, remarking that he had thought his own life, a frail mortal striving for nothing, was ridiculous, but Wu Zishu's was even more so. He taunted Wu Zishu, saying that despite his power, he would never win Wu Zhen's heart and was no better than himself, only taking out his anger on the weak.

Pei Jiya offered a final piece of advice, urging Wu Zishu not to become like him, for excessive greed and scheming would lead to losing one's body, conscience, loved one, and even oneself. Enraged, Wu Zishu silenced him. With his last breath, Pei Jiya wished for a next life free from his frail body, illness, and self-inflicted torment. In the capital, rumors spread that Mei Zhuyu had run off to Quzhou, abandoning his marriage.

As townspeople gossiped, a Marquis publicly mocked Wu Zhen, implying Mei Zhuyu had fled out of fear and she should have chosen him. Wu Zhen, fed up, retorted sharply. Just then, Mei Zhuyu appeared, silencing the Marquis and the crowd. He acknowledged his late return was his fault but declared that no one could speak ill of Wu Zhen, asserting that a husband protects his wife. He then whisked a surprised Wu Zhen onto his horse and rode home.

At home, Wu Zhen, still upset, accused Mei Zhuyu of having another lover in Quzhou, speculating he was delayed by that entanglement. Mei Zhuyu swore there was no other woman, explaining he had simply miscalculated his travel time. He then led Wu Zhen to his parents' memorial tablets.

There, he revealed his family history: his parents' love, their elopement due to disapproval from his mother's family who considered his father a mere merchant, his peaceful childhood, and then the devastating "heavenly fire" 18 years ago that orphaned him, led him to Quzhou, and eventually to his Master. He confessed that he had lost all desire for worldly things until he met her, and that she was the one who pulled him into the mortal world.

He praised her as the bravest, strongest, and most unique woman he had ever met, far surpassing many men. He confessed his cold and unlikable nature, but vowed, with his parents as witnesses, to marry her, promising a lifetime together. Wu Zhen, touched, noted that her sister and brother-in-law had already granted the marriage, but Mei Zhuyu clarified that her consent was far more important than any imperial decree.

Wu Zhen responded that since he was alone and she was reckless, they were a perfect match. Mei Zhuyu promised she could continue to live freely and unrestrained, but made one demand: even if she lost interest or grew weary of him, she must never abandon him, for he would never let go. Completely relieved, Wu Zhen embraced and kissed him. The couple then entered the palace, where Empress Wu sternly addressed them.

She expressed concern for Wu Zhen's impulsive nature and suggested they move into the more suitable Duke’s manor, though she worried Mei Zhuyu might be perceived as marrying into the family. Mei Zhuyu dismissed such worldly concerns, stating that as long as Wu Zhen was happy, he would live anywhere, even a humble cottage. Wu Zhen, however, decided she preferred to stay at Mei Zhuyu’s house, not wanting to be subjected to others' criticisms.

Empress Wu noted that Wu Zhen was indeed hard to please, but Mei Zhuyu insisted she was wonderful and required no special tolerance. The Duke of Yu, present at the meeting, suggested setting a wedding date soon. Afterward, Empress Wu asked Mei Zhuyu to join her for a walk. During their private conversation, Empress Wu revealed that Wu Zhen had truly walked back from the brink of death 18 years ago during the "heavenly fire" that consumed the city.

She recounted how a young Wu Zhen, frail and sickly, survived the inferno on Chinese New Year's Eve, miraculously regaining her health but emerging with a drastically changed personality. Empress Wu described how Wu Zhen, now labeled "spoiled and willful," seemed to hide a deep sorrow that even her father and she couldn't comprehend. She recalled Wu Zhen's late returns, anxieties, and hidden injuries, all unspoken.

Mei Zhuyu reassured the Empress that he and Wu Zhen were deeply in love, and he saw her as a kind, clever, resolute, and radiant woman, not the pampered individual others perceived. Empress Wu expressed relief, knowing the marriage fulfilled Wu Zhen's wishes. She confided in Mei Zhuyu, mentioning her own mother's early death and her father's childlike demeanor, which made it difficult for her to act freely within the palace.

Entrusting her only sister to him, she asked him to ease Wu Zhen's worries and ensure her future was filled with peace and joy. Mei Zhuyu solemnly vowed to never betray her, no matter life or death. As Mei Zhuyu departed, Empress Wu’s father emerged from behind a screen, looking on with contentment. As the wedding day approached, Mei Zhuyu personally delivered the betrothal gifts to the Duke of Yu, who received them with great delight.

Meanwhile, Wu Zishu met with the Evil Infantile Spirit in the shadows, making a blood pact. Wu Zishu promised to help the spirit retrieve its primordial core, restore its body, and rebuild its ancient empire. The Evil Infantile Spirit revealed its plan to destroy Chang'an with demon fire, then reconstruct it as a unified realm where all would serve it.

Wu Zishu declared that he would not interfere with the spirit's ambition for the world, as long as he had Wu Zhen, for she was the only one he wanted, and everyone else around her was unnecessary. With the curse mark formed, the Evil Infantile Spirit's eyes glowed crimson. That very night, the Demon Prison trembled.

Elder Hui, a rat demon, broke free from his seal, only to become a puppet in Wu Zishu's hands the moment he caught the demon core Wu Zishu threw him, having been swayed by Wu Zishu's offer to escape the plight of ordinary rodents and work for him. Three shadowy, malevolent figures converged on the palace walls, and though the wedding festivities were nigh, a deadly scheme was already unfolding.

Episode 24 Recap

Wu Zishu summoned Elder Hui and ordered him to retrieve the primordial core of Sinister Fiend Infant. Wu Zishu noted that Elder Hui, a thousand-year-old demon, had regained his memory and original form, which was why Unaging Bone had come for him, implying a past connection to Sinister Fiend Infant. Elder Hui, in turn, questioned Wu Zishu's relationship with the Sinister Fiend Infant.

Wu Zishu asserted that Elder Hui, with his vast knowledge of past events, would be able to help him. When Elder Hui asked what he wanted him to do, Wu Zishu asserted his authority, reminding Elder Hui that he could revert him to his rodent form if he dared to disobey. Elder Hui pledged his obedience, agreeing to find the primordial core. That night, strange incidents began to plague Chang'an.

A scholar, possessed by a dream demon, tore off his clothes and shouted about transforming into a butterfly, a woman on the street danced wildly with fire, and an old man, mesmerized by a golden fish in the river, waded into the water. Inside the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, officials discussed these bizarre occurrences, attributing them to people releasing their suppressed thoughts and desires through dreams. One official noted that the widespread "sleepwalking" was too strange, as if a disease.

Most remained unconcerned, reminding Mei Zhuyu that his wedding was tomorrow. However, Mei Zhuyu recognized these events as the re-emergence of a demon. Wu Zhen, also noticing the strange events, went to the Beast Market to research a solution. A cat demon informed her that the demon appeared to be a new one and was not recorded in their archives.

Wu Zishu then appeared, asking why she hadn't come to him directly for help, to which she replied she didn't want to disturb him while he was busy with Hui Sect matters. Despite her coldness, Wu Zishu expressed his attachment, declaring that she could not cast him aside. In a fit of anger and frustration, he threw a rare book into the demon fire, stating it was useless if she didn't need it.

Wu Zhen reminded him that she was marrying and he should move on. She urged him to separate his duty from his personal feelings, reassuring him that she would continue to manage the Beast Market. He acknowledged their deep understanding from their eighteen years together. After Wu Zhen left, a lingering spirit mocked Wu Zishu, telling him that Wu Zhen was a woman he could never truly possess. Wu Zishu, however, dismissed the taunt.

Rushing back to the Duke’s manor before dawn, Wu Zhen was immediately whisked away by her father and maids for her wedding preparations, despite her sleepy protests. Meanwhile, Mei Si gathered a group, including maids and colleagues, to "put Mei Zhuyu in check" the moment he arrived. He declared his loyalty to Wu Zhen, emphasizing that she was more important than his cousin, Mei Zhuyu, and urged everyone to prevent Mei Zhuyu from "bullying" her.

When Mei Zhuyu finally arrived at the manor, the group confronted him with sticks. Mei Si challenged him for not "avoiding" the ceremonial beating, but Mei Zhuyu calmly urged them to proceed. His composed demeanor only further embarrassed Mei Si. It was then that Wu Zhen appeared, breathtaking in her wedding dress, silencing and captivating everyone present.

Upon arriving at their new home, it was time for the traditional flower adornment ceremony, where the bride's close friends would add flowers to her gown as a blessing. Mei Si mused aloud about Wu Zhen's lack of close female friends. Xie Yao, remembering that Wu Zhen had once saved her life, intended to step forward, but her maid cautioned her against risking her reputation by associating with the "Qinghe County Princess."

Just then, Liu Taizhen and Hu Zhu arrived, each holding a twin peony blossom. Liu Taizhen announced that their long-standing childhood feud was now a thing of the past, and she had come to offer her congratulations to Wu Zhen, especially since someone "dared to marry her." Hu Zhu added that the Ruyi Pavilion also wished to share in Wu Zhen’s joy. At the auspicious hour, the couple entered.

Mei Zhuyu led Wu Zhen across a saddle adorned with auspicious items, scattering grains to ward off evil. Inside the hall, they first bowed to heaven and earth, then paid respects to their elders. As they exchanged their final bows, their sleeves briefly intertwined, triggering a rush of memories for both. Wu Zhen reflected on how she came to love Mei Zhuyu, cherishing his understanding and acceptance of her true self, a stark contrast to how she was perceived elsewhere.

She found comfort in being simply "Wu Zhen" with him, unburdened by expectations. Mei Zhuyu, in turn, recalled his initial resolve to uncover past wrongs and slay demons, a solitary path until Wu Zhen entered his life. He recognized that she had brought a new warmth and desire for a shared future into his once-lonely existence, making any sacrifice for her entirely "worth it," even defying Changxi Palace rules.

He reiterated his commitment to protecting her, while still upholding his duties. With the sharing of the bridal cup and blessings from the guests, the ceremony was complete, celebrating their lifelong happiness. After the ceremony, Mei Si asked Liu Taizhen about the fate of human-demon marriages like Wu Zhen and Mei Zhuyu's. Liu Taizhen reflected on her own past, revealing that she had almost married a human.

After being betrayed and left to heal in the Beast Market by the former Snake Lord, she had sworn revenge. However, when she eventually returned, she found her former lover grown old, with a family. She realized that while she had been consumed by her emotional turmoil, he had moved on, leading a free and unburdened life. She concluded that human and demon lifespans were fundamentally different, destined for separate paths, and that such unions inevitably ended in tragedy.

She then questioned Mei Si, asking why he would waste his mere decades of good time on her. Mei Si, however, vowed he was not like her past lover, promising to love her and wish her well for as long as he lived, reassuring her that her worries were unfounded and that his feelings were his own to decide. He even playfully remarked that she would look even more beautiful than Wu Zhen in a wedding dress.

Mei Si, having generously taken on much of Mei Zhuyu's celebratory drinks, became heavily intoxicated and passed out in his room. In the bridal chamber, Wu Zhen expressed her boredom, feeling "cooped up," but was unconcerned about formalities. A mysterious blue light then entered Mei Si's body, and he began to hallucinate, seeing himself marrying Liu Taizhen.

Disoriented, Mei Si rushed out, embracing Liu Taizhen and insisting they were finally together after ten years of his admiration, trying to pull her away to consummate their marriage. Mei Zhuyu and Liu Taizhen immediately recognized that Mei Si was possessed by a demon. Acting swiftly, Liu Taizhen grabbed a wine pot and struck Mei Si on the back of his head, knocking him unconscious and expelling the demon from his body.

The demon, a blue light, then entered Wu Zhen's body. Under its influence, she climbed onto a high balcony, believing she had gained full demonic powers and could fly during the day. Mei Zhuyu, observing her strange behavior, swiftly caught her as she teetered precariously, preventing a fall. He secretly performed a spell to expel the demon, and Wu Zhen quickly regained consciousness.

Recalling the strange events, Wu Zhen, feigning confusion, tried to send her father away with a fabricated excuse to allow her to plan. That same night, she rushed back to the Beast Market to gather everyone and discuss a detailed plan to capture the demon. Meanwhile, Mei Si, now recovered, expressed disbelief that even the "head of demons" could be possessed. Wu Zhen, enraged that the "little demon" had dared to disrupt her wedding, vowed to retaliate.

Mei Zhuyu later explained to his recently arrived "Tenth Brother" that this "Dream Demon" was unusually powerful, appearing in broad daylight and manipulating victims' desires by entering their dreams. He planned to "lure it out" that very night in the untouched southeast quadrant of Chang'an, where he intended to return it to the Beast Market. Mei Zhuyu concluded by declaring his ultimate goal: to eradicate all such demons from Chang'an forever.

Episode 25 Recap

Wu Zhen, understanding that the Dream Demon would be drawn to the vivid and bizarre dreams of a powerful, experienced being, sought out Ling Xiao. She skillfully flattered him, declaring him the most charming, mysterious, revered, and well-traveled great demon in Chang'an, whose desires and secrets would surely enthrall the Dream Demon, unlike the more mundane dreams of a human like Mei Zhuyu or even her own half-human state.

Though Ling Xiao was initially hesitant about being used as bait, he eventually conceded. Wu Zhen then cast a spell to induce a deep sleep. Meanwhile, after ensuring Wu Zhen was safe, Mei Zhuyu ventured alone into the city to investigate the strange occurrences. He encountered Shuang Jiang, who had just arrived in Chang'an.

After a brief discussion, Shuang Jiang suggested going home, but Mei Zhuyu pointed out that the pleasure district, a place of indulgence and rampant desires, would be an irresistible lure for the Dream Demon. They decided to search the pleasure district for any traces of the demon. As night deepened, a faint, ethereal glow emerged from the end of an alley, drawing Mei Zhuyu and Shuang Jiang's attention as it drifted towards Ruyi Pavilion.

Shuang Jiang grew anxious, fearing for Hu Zhu's safety. Inside the pavilion, the Dream Demon, having just entered Ling Xiao's dream, was swiftly apprehended by Wu Zhen. It revealed its true form as a plump, fat-headed fish-like demon. The Dream Demon tried to justify its actions, claiming it merely entered people's dreams to release their inhibitions, help them fulfill wishes, and experience their true desires, considering it a mutually beneficial act of goodwill.

It spoke of dreams having various flavors—sweet for joy, sour for jealousy, and bitter for hidden secrets. Wu Zhen, however, dismissed its claims, asserting that freedom in dreams was meaningless if it led to chaos in the waking world. She condemned its interference and the unrest it caused, declaring that as the Cat Master, she would take it back to the Beast Market for punishment. The Dream Demon defiantly refused, even suggesting it would keep people in perpetual slumber.

Just as Wu Zhen prepared to act, she noticed her surroundings shifting, realizing she had been subtly drawn into the Dream Demon's own "dream within a dream," a realm it controlled. At that very moment, Mei Zhuyu, having entered Ruyi Pavilion, shattered the dream spell. Wu Zhen, seizing the opportunity, transformed into a tabby cat and swiftly departed. From his hidden vantage point, Shuang Jiang witnessed Hu Zhu carrying the tabby cat and disappearing into the night.

Wu Zhen transported the Dream Demon back to the Beast Market. The defiant fat-headed fish-like demon continued to assert its innocence, reiterating its belief in helping people experience their desires. It then defiantly revealed it had glimpsed Wu Zhen's dream of becoming a full demon and being with Mei Zhuyu, a revelation that clearly annoyed Wu Zhen.

Wu Zhen, growing impatient with its impudence, decreed that it would begin studying at the Demon Academy the next day to mend its ways. The Dream Demon vehemently protested, declaring it would rather endure Demon Prison than attend school, but Wu Zhen remained resolute. Hu Zhu, who had overheard the Dream Demon's revelation about Wu Zhen's dream, cast a curious glance. Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu, having deliberately allowed the tabby cat to escape, followed its demonic aura to a desolate area.

There, he used his magic to probe for the Beast Market's entrance. He made a profound discovery: the Beast Market wasn't concealed within a single location in Chang'an, but rather was an entire parallel dimension, a world of shadows mirroring the human streets and markets, intricately interwoven with the city itself. Late that night, Elder Hui, acting on Wu Zishu's orders, covertly released the Dream Demon back into Chang'an.

Wu Zishu's intention was to leverage the ensuing chaos to compel the Changxi Palace disciples to descend from the mountains. Mei Zhuyu, sensing the renewed demonic activity, resolved to investigate further on his own. Concurrently, Shuang Jiang, whose suspicions about Hu Zhu's true nature had deepened, decided to return to Ruyi Pavilion to test her. Hu Zhu skillfully feigned ignorance, making Shuang Jiang question his own perceptions. Mei Zhuyu eventually returned to his residence.

His maid complained that his prolonged absence on their wedding day had displeased Wu Zhen's household, leading to the maid being scolded by Mingzhuang, Wu Zhen's attendant. As he hurried to find his wife, he couldn't locate her. He then checked the bath, but she wasn't there either.

Unbeknownst to him, Wu Zhen had just returned from the Beast Market and, seeing Mei Zhuyu and the maid searching for her, discreetly slipped into the tub, claiming she had just been bathing. Mei Zhuyu, entering and seeing her, felt a flicker of suspicion, wondering how she could have appeared so suddenly. He apologized and turned to leave, but Wu Zhen playfully called out, teasingly revealing his bashfulness.

After a moment of hesitation, Mei Zhuyu stepped back into the bath, leaned in, and kissed her passionately before lifting her out. He apologized for putting her in harm's way earlier on their wedding day, vowing to protect her and never let her face danger again. They embraced and shared a tender kiss. Under the warm glow of red candles, their marriage was consummated. The following day, Chang Ming led his Changxi Palace disciples down to Chang'an.

Shuang Jiang, encountering his Second Senior Brother and the others, inadvertently disclosed Mei Zhuyu's discovery of the Beast Market. Later, Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen arrived belatedly at the Duke of Yu’s manor. The Duke, with a knowing smile, subtly advised the young couple to exercise moderation in their marital bliss. Wu Zhen's face was noticeably pale, which she attributed to hunger. The following day, Liu Taizhen, based on Wu Zhen's described symptoms, ordered Zhu Po to prepare herbal medicine.

After taking the medicine, Wu Zhen pulled Mei Zhuyu to enjoy a stroll through the market. Chang Ming and his junior brother, Lian Fu, found temporary shelter in a dilapidated temple on the city's outskirts. They discussed Mei Zhuyu's discovery of the Beast Market and Chang Ming's frustrating inability to make the Changxi Mace acknowledge him as its master, despite having retrieved it.

Unbeknownst to them, Wu Zishu, hidden nearby, overheard their conversation, finally realizing that Mei Zhuyu was a former Changxi Palace disciple. When Chang Ming's disciples eventually located Mei Zhuyu, they informed him of their intention to collaborate with him to eliminate the Beast Market. Mei Zhuyu, though having his own methods, shared their ultimate goal and agreed to assist, but stressed the importance of meticulous planning for a decisive and successful strike.

While Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen enjoyed a stroll through the market, Wu Zishu subtly approached Mei Zhuyu at an archery stall. He spoke ambiguously about his past with Wu Zhen, hinting at a deep, longstanding connection and suggesting that Wu Zhen might sneak out in the middle of the night to meet him. Mei Zhuyu, sensing the underlying provocation, engaged in a veiled verbal exchange. That night, Wu Zhen was suddenly afflicted with a sharp chest pain and quietly left the room. Mei Zhuyu, who had only been pretending to sleep, immediately opened his eyes.

Episode 26 Recap

Wu Zhen, enduring the intense discomfort within her, stumbled to the Beast Market. Wu Zishu focused on healing her, but paused when he heard her call out Mei Zhuyu’s name in her delirium. Wu Zishu gravely informed Wu Zhen that two forces were clashing within her, a result of overusing her Cat Master powers.

He explained that to truly eliminate the danger, she would need to shed her mortal form and become a full demon, revealing he had finally found a way to achieve this, though the method was extreme. Wu Zhen, trusting him, agreed. Later, Wu Zhen returned home to find Mei Zhuyu waiting by candlelight. When asked where she had been, she simply replied Ruyi Pavilion.

Mei Zhuyu then sensed Wu Zishu’s presence outside the window and, asserting his claim, pulled Wu Zhen into a deep kiss, leaving Wu Zishu to seethe in silent anger. Mei Zhuyu also gently reminded Wu Zhen not to go out with wet hair. Wu Zishu, alone in the Beast Market, was lost in reflection. He recalled decades spent with Wu Zhen, teaching her how to become the Cat Master and doing everything for her, their bond deeply ingrained.

He remembered a time when Wu Zhen, newly appointed as Cat Master, sought his advice on subduing the ferocious beast Yunqi in the Demon Prison. Wu Zishu, despite not remembering his own past, provided the solution: use cymbals to frighten Yunqi. He then offered to be her first aide, promising her boundless opportunities, including opening bookshops throughout the human realm. Their bond was one of mutual support, as he often attended meetings or handled difficult situations on her behalf.

However, Wu Zhen had yearned to experience mortal life and its myriad emotions. In a poignant memory, Wu Zhen explained that while she and Wu Zishu were companions and true friends, she felt a profound sense of peace with Mei Zhuyu. Despite Wu Zishu confessing his love and their eighteen years of companionship versus Mei Zhuyu's mere months, Wu Zhen still chose to believe in Mei Zhuyu, leaving Wu Zishu heartbroken.

At dawn the next day, Mei Zhuyu and his senior brother returned to the barren ruins, tracing the spot where demon energy had dissipated the previous day. Examining the decaying structures, Mei Zhuyu determined that the desolate Goddess Wa Temple was likely the entrance to the Beast Market. They discussed the temple's ruin eighteen years prior, linking it to the Chang'an fire, and speculated on the Beast Market's audacious confidence in its barrier.

Mei Zhuyu, recalling his master's teaching that all barriers have a way to be undone, was determined to find a solution. Meanwhile, Liu Taizhen, having been misinformed by Xuan Hui that Mei Si was ill, hurried to the Mei Residence. She found Mei Si cheerfully playing in the courtyard, realizing Xuan Hui had deceived her to get her to visit. As she prepared to reprimand Xuan Hui, servants began scattering realgar powder to deal with a snake and rodent problem.

Mei Si, rushing to intervene, stumbled and injured his knee. The airborne realgar powder affected both Liu Taizhen and Xuan Hui, causing them discomfort. Mei Si, despite his pain, helped Liu Taizhen inside. There, he discovered two faint snakebite marks on his leg. Liu Taizhen, to avoid revealing her powers to the servants, immediately called for a physician. While waiting, Liu Taizhen noticed numerous portraits of herself hanging in Mei Si’s room.

Mei father soon arrived, keen to discuss the long-standing child betrothal between Mei Si and Liu Taizhen. Mei Si, seeing Liu Taizhen’s conflicted expression, firmly declared that he would not marry her, leading to his father angrily slapping him across the face, calling him the "rotten one" of the Mei family. Afterward, Xuan Hui questioned Mei Si’s decision, knowing his affection for Liu Taizhen.

Mei Si sadly explained that he felt unworthy of a powerful demon like Liu Taizhen, fearing that if she were to refuse him, it would harm her reputation. More importantly, he did not wish to constrain her free, uninhibited nature with the conventions of human marriage. When Xuan Hui relayed Mei Si's sentiments to Liu Taizhen, she was deeply moved by his unusual and considerate perspective. As night fell, Wu Zishu arrived outside Wu Zhen’s residence, observing from the shadows.

Wu Zhen attempted to slip away unnoticed, but Mei Zhuyu gently took her wrist, reminding her to get a good night's sleep. Seeing Wu Zhen prevented from leaving, Wu Zishu grew increasingly grim, deciding he needed a more forceful strategy to keep her by his side permanently. He returned to the Beast Market, dismissing a subordinate’s concerns about several missing minor demons, deeming their demise in cultivation a natural occurrence.

Wu Zishu then personally activated all the demon cores hidden in his archive, unleashing a surge of demonic energy, intending to accelerate Wu Zhen's complete transformation into a full demon, believing these sacrifices were her blessing. The next day, Chi Hua, Mei Zhuyu's third senior brother, successfully identified a method to break the Beast Market's barrier, encouraging Mei Zhuyu that he would have many more opportunities for significant contributions.

Mei Zhuyu then took Shuang Jiang to a street food stall, subtly probing him about the events at Ruyi Pavilion. Shuang Jiang initially resisted, but Mei Zhuyu, sensing his unease, pressed him. Shuang Jiang eventually confessed to witnessing Hu Zhu vanish into thin air while holding a black cat behind the Ruyi Pavilion that night. Shuang Jiang, however, defended Hu Zhu, believing she was not an evil demon, citing the daily traffic at Ruyi Pavilion without incident.

He also expressed suspicion that, given Hu Zhu's close association with Wu Zhen, Wu Zhen herself might not be an ordinary mortal. Later, Liu Taizhen noticed Wu Zhen’s joyful demeanor and learned that Wu Zishu had found a way for her to become a full demon. Liu Taizhen warned her to be cautious of Mei Zhuyu, drawing a parallel to her own past heartbreak (with Duan Lang).

However, Wu Zhen remained steadfast in her trust, asserting that just as there are heartless men, there are also devoted ones like Mei Si, who stayed loyal despite knowing her true nature. She believed Mei Zhuyu was not someone who couldn't distinguish between good and evil. Soon after, Wu Zishu arrived, his face grim, informing Wu Zhen that several Celestial Masters had infiltrated Chang'an, causing her alarm.

At the same time, Mei Zhuyu was leading Chi Hua in reactivating an ancient formation at the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs. Mei Zhuyu explained that this formation, once repaired, would compel any demon standing within its bounds to reveal their true form. Following this, Cat Master Wu Zhen tasked Xiang, a skunk spirit, to investigate the Celestial Masters' plans in Chang'an and prepare to defend the Beast Market.

Episode 27 Recap

On a stormy night, Mei Zhuyu observed Wu Zhen sitting calmly in her room reading, an unusual sight that made him question his earlier suspicions. After Wu Zhen went to bed, Mei Zhuyu reflected on how she always coincidentally appeared whenever he encountered demons. While he never doubted it before, he now found it too much of a coincidence.

He mused that although people called her arrogant and spoiled, she always seemed to be hiding something that even he and his father couldn't discern. He had observed her returning late, often worried and sometimes injured over the years, yet she never spoke of it. Finally, he asked her to pick him up from the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs the next day, and she agreed.

The next day, as his shift ended, Mei Zhuyu dismissed his subordinates, stating he had paperwork to finish, but in reality, he was waiting for Wu Zhen. She arrived as promised, entering the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs. Mei Zhuyu stood in the center of a formation, intended to reveal a demon's true form in the atrium. As Wu Zhen approached, he hesitated and told her not to come any closer. Wu Zhen asked what was wrong.

Upon seeing nothing, he simply told her, "Let's go home." However, as they walked towards the door, a stone from one part of the formation suddenly fell. Wu Zhen apologized, saying, "I'm sorry." Mei Zhuyu replied that it was alright, and Wu Zhen tried to cover up, claiming the Bureau was poorly built and she would have it repaired. They then left for home. Mei Zhuyu realized Wu Zhen had subtly sabotaged the formation in advance.

Meanwhile, Chang Ming, with his junior brothers, proceeded with his plan to open the Beast Market entrance, naming his strategy the "Four-sided Majestic Wind Formation." During their preparations, Chang Ming dismissed a junior brother's suggestion to wait for Mei Zhuyu and Shuang Jiang, stating that Mei Zhuyu was now busy with Bureau affairs and married, while Shuang Jiang would only be a hindrance. During the night, they were ambushed and poisoned by toxic smoke.

A junior brother explained that if Shuang Jiang hadn't brought a carriage and arrived in time, their unique scent left by the smoke, which attracts demons, would have given them away. Shuang Jiang clarified that it was Mei Zhuyu, their Tenth Brother, who had him prepare the carriage, anticipating their failure. Mei Zhuyu had also created talismans to ward off evil and mask their scent, which he instructed them to carry.

He also provided an address to a secluded residence 1. 5 km southeast of the city for their safe house. Upon returning to the Beast Market, Wu Zhen was pleased by the Celestial Masters' supposed failure. However, a demon subordinate informed her that the Celestial Masters were untraceable, surprising her. The subordinate then urged her to focus on her transformation into a full demon, revealing that the Attached Body Shop had already found her a new skin.

Wu Zhen was shocked, learning that her current form couldn't support the full demon power and she'd need to discard it for a new one, undergoing 100 years of seclusion. She confronted Wu Zishu, asking why he hadn't told her this. He coldly stated that the mundane world held nothing worthy of her attachment and questioned if she would risk her life for trivial matters.

He reminded her that she was a demon, unlike humans who suffer from birth, aging, sickness, death, weakness, and pain. He pressed her on who she could truly protect – her father, sister, or Mei Zhuyu – arguing that their paths diverged 18 years ago, and the outcome was inevitable. He concluded by telling her that as the Demon Master, she shouldn't be burdened by such meaningless attachments. Elder Hui visited Wu Zishu in his library.

After paying respects to a lingering soul, Elder Hui inquired about Wu Zishu's plans now that Sect Master Chang Ming had descended the mountain. Wu Zishu stated that he would help Chang Ming enter the Beast Market. When Elder Hui suggested that such a task shouldn't be difficult, Wu Zishu revealed his true desire: he disliked predictability and wanted an all-out confrontation, a battle to the death.

Elder Hui then questioned if these actions were for Wu Zishu's personal gain or for their great cause, to which Wu Zishu replied ambiguously, "For me, for you, and for our cause." Upon returning home, Wu Zhen found Mei Zhuyu roasting meat. She asked about the occasion, and Mei Zhuyu explained he was recalling his childhood, when his family would grill meat in the courtyard every winter. Wu Zhen remarked that grilling meat as a family sounded wonderful.

Mei Zhuyu then promised they would do it every winter from now on, even inviting her father to taste his cooking. As she watched him, the realization that their time together might be limited made her sad. The senior brothers, still reeking from the toxic smoke, received food from Shuang Jiang at their secluded hideaway. Despite the aid, one senior brother accused Mei Zhuyu of colluding with demons, citing his repeated defense of the Beast Market since leaving the mountain.

Shuang Jiang vehemently denied this, reminding them that Mei Zhuyu bore his parents' vengeance against demons and wouldn't betray their cause. Another brother retorted that Mei Zhuyu might have become a coward since marrying. Chang Ming intervened to calm the situation. Shuang Jiang reiterated that without Mei Zhuyu's foresight and arrangements, they might not even be alive. He then delivered Mei Zhuyu's message: if they wanted success, they should follow his plan.

Claiming he couldn't stand the stench and that Mei Zhuyu had arranged other lodging, Shuang Jiang left. The remaining senior brothers speculated that Mei Zhuyu had intentionally let them fail to make them follow his lead, calling it a cunning scheme. Mei Si was in his room, lost in thought while looking at a portrait of Liu Taizhen. A friend arrived, praising Mei Si for his "manly" decision to reject the marriage with Lady Liu.

The friend even presented him with portraits of various women he had carefully selected, offering a wide range of looks and styles. However, Mei Si described his ideal woman as reserved, aloof, slim, cold-demeanored, and speaking slowly yet sharply. His friend quickly realized Mei Si was simply describing Liu Taizhen, highlighting that Mei Si's heart was still set on her. Wu Zhen's aunt returned to the capital for a family visit, and Duke Wu hosted a grand banquet.

During the festivities, Mei Zhuyu toasted Wu Zhen's aunt, who thoughtfully provided him with fruit drinks instead of alcohol. Liu Taizhen privately informed Wu Zhen that Ling Xiao was still actively searching for the Celestial Masters and would take action if they caused trouble again. Liu Taizhen also cautioned her to be discreet, as her intimate relationship with Mei Zhuyu was already widely known.

The women further noted that Minister Liu, impressed by Mei Zhuyu, was now attempting to find Liu Taizhen a similar match, expressing concern about finding another "Mei Zhuyu" in Chang'an. Later, Mei Si noticed Wu Zhen discreetly massaging her lower back and kindly asked if she needed a physician, causing her some embarrassment. Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu had retreated to the back courtyard for peace, avoiding the noisy women and children.

One particular "little tyrant," Wu Zhen's cousin's son, was making a huge fuss. Mei Zhuyu quickly drew a talisman that instantly calmed the child, making him quietly focus on writing. The child's mother, arriving shortly after, was amazed by the transformation, remarking that it was rare for someone so young to be so skilled with children and that Mei Zhuyu would make a good father. Witnessing Mei Zhuyu's gentle and effective way with the child, Wu Zhen's resolve wavered.

She confessed to her internal serpent spirit that she had changed her mind. Expressing that she thought her own experiences would be enough, she lamented that the human heart was simply too greedy. She implied she no longer wished to become a full demon, now yearning to have a child with Mei Zhuyu.

When Elder Hui informed Wu Zishu that Wu Zhen wished to postpone her transformation into a full demon, Wu Zishu reacted with outrage, reminding Elder Hui of their 18 years of effort. Elder Hui, however, defended Wu Zhen's decision, stating she had valid reasons and wouldn't gamble with her life before understanding her body's issues. He further asserted that Wu Zhen had decades of human life ahead, which was precious to her, and Wu Zishu should respect her decision.

Despite Elder Hui's counsel, Wu Zishu remained defiant, stating ominously that "the spark is lit, and some things will inevitably come to light." Fueled by hatred for Mei Zhuyu, Wu Zishu then directly asked Elder Hui if he had located the Celestial Masters. Elder Hui reported that due to tight security in the Beast Market and Chang'an, the Celestial Masters had found refuge in an abandoned residence outside the city. He added, to Wu Zishu's surprise, that he was able to track them thanks to Sect Master Chang Ming.

Episode 28 Recap

Elder Hui, using intelligence gathered by the Heretic cultivators under Sect Master Chang Ming, discovered that the Celestial Masters were recuperating in an abandoned residence outside Chang'an. He promptly reported this information to Wu Zishu. Elder Hui explained that Sect Master Chang Ming's impatience led him to secretly practice the cell transformation technique, causing his foul smell to be unconcealed, which allowed Elder Hui to locate the residence.

Wu Zishu praised Elder Hui's shrewdness, to which Elder Hui responded by emphasizing the omnipresence and resilience of rats. He then left at Wu Zishu's instruction. Soon after Elder Hui's departure, Hu Zhu appeared, curious about Wu Zishu's presence. Wu Zishu, thinking quickly, lied and claimed he was trying to locate the Celestial Masters, suggesting that he might be able to find their traces through Shuang Jiang, a self-proclaimed Celestial Master in the city who had been acting suspiciously.

Hu Zhu then covertly followed Shuang Jiang to the outskirts. Shuang Jiang, sensing her presence, urgently whispered for her to leave, warning her of the danger, especially from his First Senior Brother, Chang Ming, who showed no mercy to demons. Hu Zhu confronted Shuang Jiang, asking about the Celestial Masters' true purpose in Chang'an. Before she could get an answer, Chang Ming discovered Hu Zhu. Enraged, he moved to eliminate the demon.

Shuang Jiang, unwilling to see Hu Zhu harmed, bravely stepped forward to protect her. However, Chang Ming's powerful magic struck both of them, sending them plummeting into a ravine. Chang Ming, though briefly vexed by Shuang Jiang, decided that even a fool could be useful for his plans. That evening, Mei Zhuyu released a spirit fire within the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, and a remnant soul appeared as he expected.

Despite a thorough search, the demon baby was nowhere to be found. After contemplating, Mei Zhuyu recaptured the remnant soul and keenly sensed that the demon baby was hidden within Chang'an. Mei Zhuyu's colleague noted the bad weather and predicted rain, prompting Mei Zhuyu to comment on the usefulness of heavenly thunder, connecting it to past incidents involving the Demon Market and suggesting a link between the barrier and the thunder.

The following day, Mei Zhuyu's senior brothers rushed to inform him that Shuang Jiang had fallen off a cliff the previous day while defending a fox demon. They elaborated that Shuang Jiang, after leaving his baggage, went to find the Sect Master, inadvertently revealing their location and attracting a powerful and cunning fox demon.

They claimed that Chang Ming arrived and wounded the demon, but Shuang Jiang, acting as a traitorous disciple, pleaded for its life, calling the demon his best friend. The demon then supposedly dragged Shuang Jiang down the cliff with her. Chang Ming feigned deep sorrow and self-reproach for being too lenient. Another senior brother, however, subtly blamed Chang Ming, pointing out his own recklessness for leaving the array while still emitting a foul smell.

Mei Zhuyu then declared he would search for Shuang Jiang and warned everyone else against acting rashly. Meanwhile, at the bottom of the ravine, Shuang Jiang revived Hu Zhu and offered her his only dry ration, a flatbread. Hu Zhu questioned why Shuang Jiang saved her and fell with her, to which he replied that he hadn't thought, only feared her death. She reminded him she was a demon and he a Celestial Master, asking if he wouldn't kill her.

He simply said he would "subdue" her, not torture an injured demon. They shared the bread in silence. At the same time, Mei Zhuyu ventured into the ravine alone, searching for Shuang Jiang and Hu Zhu. Shuang Jiang carefully carried the injured Hu Zhu on their way back home. Along the journey, a thought struck him: if Hu Zhu was a fox demon, could Wu Zhen also be one? His face betrayed his surprise.

Seeing this, Hu Zhu quickly swore on her cultivation that Wu Zhen was absolutely not a fox demon, urging Shuang Jiang not to speculate. Hu Zhu then asked if Mei Zhuyu, whom Shuang Jiang called his "Tenth Brother," was also from Changxi Palace. Shuang Jiang denied it and swore that while there were ten registered Celestial Masters in Changxi Palace, Mei Zhuyu was not one of them.

Elsewhere, Wu Zishu went to the Demon Book Pavilion, searching for the remnant soul, growing increasingly anxious as it remained elusive. After an arduous journey, Hu Zhu and Shuang Jiang finally made it out of the ravine. However, due to her unhealed injuries, Hu Zhu's strength failed her, and she reverted to her fox form, unable to transform back into a human. She was soon discovered by passersby, who reported her to the authorities.

Mei Zhuyu and his colleagues searched the city for the reported "vicious wolf," which Mei Zhuyu, based on eyewitness descriptions of its "petite yet feral" nature and "big, long tail," deduced was more likely a fox. Hu Zhu, desperate, sought refuge in Ruyi Pavilion. At that moment, both Wu Zhen and Wu Zishu arrived at Ruyi Pavilion. Wu Zhen, frantic, knew she had to treat Hu Zhu quickly before Mei Zhuyu arrived.

Wu Zishu noted Hu Zhu's severe injuries, suspecting the Celestial Masters were responsible, and decided she had to be treated on site, as returning to the Demon Market was not an option. Shortly after, Mei Zhuyu appeared at the door, demanding to search the room as part of the official search for the "feral wolf." Wu Zhen used various excuses to block them. Mei Zhuyu insisted on searching, saying he believed her but needed to check "just in case."

Wu Zhen reminded him it was his birthday and she was waiting for him at home. When Mei Zhuyu tried to force his way in, he caught sight of Wu Zishu inside. Misinterpreting the situation, he believed Wu Zhen was having an affair and, heartbroken, turned to leave. Wu Zishu then subtly challenged Wu Zhen, questioning if Mei Zhuyu was worth her hesitation and if she truly harbored no suspicions about him.

Upon waking, Hu Zhu quickly informed Wu Zhen of the truth: Shuang Jiang was part of a group of Celestial Masters from Changxi Palace. She recounted seeing five of them in the suburbs concealed by an array, confirming they were not ordinary Celestial Masters. She also relayed what Shuang Jiang had sworn to her: that Mei Zhuyu was not one of the ten registered Changxi Palace Celestial Masters.

Wu Zhen, pondering this, noted that any threats should not be overlooked, expressing concern that their peaceful days might not last long. Meanwhile, Shuang Jiang returned to the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, famished. While devouring food, he told his Tenth Brother, Mei Zhuyu, that Hu Zhu was indeed a fox demon. He mentioned sensing a mysterious aura—Chang Ming's—lingering in Hu Zhu's body when they parted, and worried about her condition.

Mei Zhuyu immediately surmised it was a Demon-Hunting Talisman placed by Chang Ming. As night fell, Chang Ming, guided by the talisman, tracked Hu Zhu to Ruyi Pavilion and successfully apprehended her. Mei Zhuyu and Shuang Jiang rushed to the scene, intending to rescue Hu Zhu, unaware that Chang Ming was deliberately using her as bait.

Chang Ming explained to Mei Zhuyu that her survival was solely for the sake of his plans; since her refusal to talk proved her high status in the Demon Market, she made excellent bait to lure out a "big fish." Later that night, Wu Zhen arrived at Ruyi Pavilion. Chang Ming, mistaking her for the "big fish," prepared to strike.

However, Wu Zhen calmly declared she was there to find her husband, Mei Zhuyu, stating it was his birthday and he was "seeking pleasure" at Ruyi Pavilion, and she was "here to catch him in the act." Chang Ming promptly halted his attack, realizing she was the Qinghe County Princess. Mei Zhuyu then entered, identifying Chang Ming and his men as "a few old friends from Quzhou," claiming they had rented Ruyi Pavilion for a couple of days of fun.

Wu Zhen, however, pointed out the darkness of the pavilion and their lack of food or drink, calling it a "strange way to have fun." She then asked if she could take Mei Zhuyu home, to which Chang Ming assented. Wu Zhen, being polite, then invited Chang Ming and his friends to their home for the birthday celebration, promising a warm welcome.

Episode 29 Recap

Mei Zhuyu remained composed when Wu Zhen questioned him about his activities. He simply stated that Chang Ming and his group were old acquaintances, new to the capital, and temporarily residing at Ruyi Pavilion for leisure. Wu Zhen's eyes held a scrutinizing gaze, and although she didn't expose the flaws in his explanation, she wasn't convinced. After exchanging brief pleasantries with Chang Ming, she took Mei Zhuyu and departed.

Once they were out of sight, Chang Ming instructed his disciple, Eleventh Brother, to follow them. Eleventh Brother, while observing Mei Zhuyu, later scoffed, believing him to be just a common man infatuated with women. He reported back to Chang Ming, ceasing his surveillance. Meanwhile, Chang Ming continued to torture Hu Zhu, pressuring her to reveal the location of the Beast Market.

He told her the Beast Market clearly didn't care if she lived or died and that if she cooperated, she wouldn't suffer anymore. Hu Zhu, however, clenched her jaw, enduring the torment without divulging any information. Shuang Jiang, witnessing her suffering, could only stand by, bound by his Sect Master's orders. Hu Zhu was eventually forced to lead Chang Ming and his followers to an abandoned temple.

She pointed to a deep pond, explaining that the entrance to the Beast Market lay beneath the water, protected by a formation that needed to be broken. Shuang Jiang subtly sent a message to Mei Zhuyu via a paper crane, warning him that Changxi Palace planned to enter the Beast Market that night. Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen were heading home when the paper crane arrived.

After reading the message, Mei Zhuyu decided to leave immediately, instructing Wu Zhen to stay at home and promising to explain everything upon his return. Alone in the courtyard, Wu Zhen reflected on Mei Zhuyu's past statements, remembering he once mentioned being the Eleventh Brother and possessing skills in both spiritual arts and martial arts. She realized this confirmed his identity as a member of Changxi Palace.

Mei Zhuyu, following a trail, arrived at the abandoned temple and found items left behind by others on the ground, finally locating the entrance to the Beast Market. Just then, a calico cat appeared under the moonlight. Mei Zhuyu recognized it as Wu Zhen in her transformed state. Wu Zhen immediately revealed her true form, her expression stern as she questioned Mei Zhuyu's resolve to enter the Beast Market, warning him that such an act would sever their ties.

She reminded him of his past words about not defying the laws of nature, even with magic, and yet he was now calling down thunder. Mei Zhuyu admitted he hadn't intended to hide anything and was given one last chance by Wu Zhen. After a long silence, he ultimately chose to step forward. Wu Zhen promptly intervened, and the two clashed under the moonlight, their combat intense.

Mei Zhuyu finally broke through her resistance and entered the Beast Market, where he found Chang Ming and his group suspended in mid-air, a precarious and unpredictable situation. It was revealed that Wu Zhen's earlier remarks upon entering Ruyi Pavilion were a secret command. Hu Zhu, understanding the true meaning, had feigned betrayal to lure Chang Ming into a trap. The Beast Market had already laid out an elaborate ambush.

Wu Zhen then projected scenes of the Beast Market, showing its inhabitants living peaceful, content, and independent lives. She argued that these demons had done nothing wrong and asked why Changxi Palace insisted on conflict. She directly questioned Chang Ming's character and the potential chaos within Changxi Palace under his leadership.

Chang Ming countered, reminding Mei Zhuyu of the grievances from eighteen years ago, when he claimed the fire chaos was caused by the Beast Market, had led to countless deaths, and implied it was responsible for Mei Zhuyu's parents' death.

Wu Zhen then led everyone to the Demon Prison, where she presented the Mirror of Clarity to reveal the truth: the Beast Market had suffered immensely to defeat the Sinister Fiend Infant, which was responsible for the fire chaos, and the previous Cat Master had died in the process. Chang Ming vehemently rejected this, dismissing it as demonic trickery meant to deceive them.

However, Mei Zhuyu and some other disciples began to harbor doubts, especially after a Celestial Master confirmed the Mirror of Clarity's authenticity and its inability to be tampered with. As the manifestation of the Sinister Fiend's remnant soul (black smoke) suddenly dissipated, it became clear that the Sinister Fiend's primordial core had escaped. Seizing the opportunity, Chang Ming abruptly attacked, revealing his true nature as a heretic cultivator as he directly absorbed demonic power to enhance his cultivation.

Liu Taizhen suddenly recalled that this was the same technique used by the black-clad assailant who attacked them on Luwei Mountain, realizing that Chang Ming was that assailant. The disciples were horrified, shocked to discover their Sect Master had succumbed to the evil path. At this critical moment, a primordial core erupted from within Wu Zhen's body. It was the Sinister Fiend's primordial core, which had been given to her at its death, saving her life.

Chang Ming, elated, sought to forcibly take the primordial core. Witnessing Wu Zhen's excruciating pain, Mei Zhuyu finally summoned the Changxi Mace, its golden light directly striking Chang Ming. Chang Ming, however, showed no remorse for practicing dark magic (the Cell Transformation Technique), asserting that his actions were for what he desired and to fight demons.

He also harbored murderous intent towards Mei Zhuyu, feeling that his talent overshadowed him, and that their master had always favored Mei Zhuyu, intending to pass the Sect Master position to him. As Chang Ming channeled his power, his body suddenly exploded, shocking everyone present. It was revealed in a flashback that years ago, Chang Ming had discovered dark cultivation methods in the forbidden archives.

His master had caught him, and Chang Ming had feigned repentance, swearing a poisonous oath that if he ever practiced such dark magic again, he would be obliterated. His master had warned him against shortcuts in cultivation, saying they would lead to a devastating fall. Now, Chang Ming died as he had sworn. Mei Zhuyu understood that his master had subtly embedded the oath into Chang Ming's meridians, ensuring he would face the consequences of his actions.

The other disciples were left with a mix of emotions. Elder Hui, who had been observing from the shadows, was disappointed, having hoped Chang Ming would retrieve the primordial core but instead finding him to be incompetent. The Celestial Masters, utterly ashamed that their Sect Master had practiced dark magic, apologized profusely.

Wu Zhen, though forgiving, sternly decreed that the Celestial Master lineage (Changxi Palace) was forever forbidden from stepping foot in Chang'an and from targeting the Beast Market without cause. Immediately after, Wu Zhen collapsed. Wu Zishu, holding her, walked past Mei Zhuyu, telling him to stay away from Zhen. He assured Mei Zhuyu that he would take care of her, as she was likely affected by Chang Ming's Cell Transformation Technique.

Episode 30 Recap

Celestial Masters emerged from the Beast Market, feeling as though their recent ordeal had been a dream. They were relieved to find that Chang'an remained unchanged, and they could finally return to their lives. Meanwhile, Wu Zhen awoke in a medicinal pool, where Wu Zishu stood waiting. She looked at him for a long moment before asking if he had long known about Mei Zhuyu's connection to Changxi Palace. Wu Zishu's silence was his admission.

He then explained that he had kept the truth from her because she had always insisted on experiencing both the good and the bad on her own, and he believed she would never give up on Mei Zhuyu if she hadn't witnessed this situation firsthand. He confessed that he never anticipated the situation would unfold this way, especially that the primordial core would come to reside within her.

Wu Zhen, in turn, felt a sudden unfamiliarity with Wu Zishu, her companion of decades, as if she had never truly known him. Mei Si sat up all night, consumed by worry. His concerns were confirmed when Xuan Hui returned, reporting that he had inquired with Ling Xiao and learned the Beast Market had faced a major crisis, leaving both Cat Master and Snake Master injured, though their wounds were not life-threatening. Despite the reassurance, Mei Si remained anxious.

Upon learning that his cousin, Mei Zhuyu, was the unexpected source of the trouble, he was left speechless. Elsewhere, Mingzhuang and Wenhua observed the untouched feast laid out, realizing that Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen had not returned home all night. Mingzhuang, concerned, expressed her declining status in the household hierarchy, lamenting her importance had dwindled from second to fifth. As Mei Zhuyu re-entered the house, looking disheartened, Mingzhuang immediately asked if Wu Zhen had returned with him.

He remained silent. Shortly after, Mei Si rushed in, having initially hoped it was Wu Zhen. Mei Si, indignant, accused Mei Zhuyu of keeping secrets, echoing Mei Zhuyu's earlier retort about Mei Si's own hidden information regarding the Beast Market. Mei Si, still worried about Liu Taizhen, persistently asked if Mei Zhuyu could take him to the Beast Market again, as his "mole" Ling Xiao had only provided vague details and had even called Mei Zhuyu heartless.

Mei Zhuyu, however, stated he had no way to enter. Mei Si claimed that other contacts like Ling Xiao and Hu Zhu refused to help, leaving Mei Zhuyu as his only hope, comparing their shared predicaments. Mei Zhuyu reiterated that he truly could not take Mei Si to the Beast Market, but Mei Si vowed patience. At the same time, Liu Taizhen personally tended to Wu Zhen’s injuries, giving her some demonic power to alleviate her pain.

Liu Taizhen acknowledged Wu Zhen's arduous 18 years as a half-demon sealing the primordial core in her mortal body. Wu Zhen finally understood that the former Cat Master’s warning about no free lunch referred to this, not just her duties as Cat Master. Outside, Wu Zishu waited until late into the night.

When Liu Taizhen finally emerged, she informed him that Wu Zhen would need to stay in the Beast Market for several days to recuperate, suggesting that Wu Zishu should focus on his official duties instead of waiting. The next morning, Mei Zhuyu, still feeling the effects of a hangover, received a message via a paper crane, informing him that his senior brothers were leaving the capital to return to Changxi Palace. He rushed to see them off.

Mei Zhuyu attempted to bestow the Changxi Mace upon his Second Senior Brother, Xiao Mu. He explained that although he had used it in an emergency, he was not a member of Changxi Palace, making it inappropriate for him to retain it, and believed Xiao Mu was the most suitable new sect master.

However, Xiao Mu firmly refused, stating that the mace, given by their Master, belonged to Mei Zhuyu and that Chang Ming’s dark magic had caused the mace to be unwilling to submit. Mei Zhuyu expressed his gratitude for Xiao Mu's covert assistance during the White Night Formation, an intervention unknown to their other brothers.

Xiao Mu then reminded him that a Celestial Master's duty should not be confined by a mere weapon, but as Mei Zhuyu remained in Chang'an, serving in the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, he would inevitably encounter more demons. He advised Mei Zhuyu to keep the Changxi Mace to fulfill his role as a Celestial Master. As they exchanged heartfelt farewells, speaking of destiny and the possibility of future reunions, Mei Zhuyu sensed a presence nearby.

He turned, but no one was there. As Shuang Jiang and his fellow senior brothers embarked on their journey home, Hu Zhu stood by the roadside, having waited since early morning. She explained that Wu Zhen, the Cat Master, had sent her to see them off and ensure their departure, so that peace could return to the Beast Market.

Hu Zhu then relayed Wu Zhen’s solemn vow: as long as the primordial core remained within her, she would prevent it from ever wreaking havoc upon the world again, no matter the personal cost. Shortly after, Shuang Jiang returned, explaining he had specifically waited in line for her favorite flatbread at the East Market shop, anticipating she hadn't had breakfast, and gave it to her as dry rations for her journey back.

As they prepared to part, Shuang Jiang comically attempted to "test" a dilapidated building for demons, inadvertently drawing out some aggressive demons. He quickly fended them off, protecting Hu Zhu. Hu Zhu then asked Shuang Jiang about his greatest wish, to which he firmly replied, "To get rid of demons!" They shared a final glance before parting ways, Hu Zhu watching Shuang Jiang's figure recede into the distance, old memories fading as they embarked on their separate paths.

Mei Si, still undeterred, continued to pester Mei Zhuyu about entering the Beast Market to see Liu Taizhen. One day, while Mei Si sat lamenting his situation in Mei Zhuyu’s room, he found an exquisite box containing two wooden dolls. Mei Zhuyu explained they were a birthday gift from Duke Yu. Mei Si, after initially speculating that the dolls resembled Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen, decided they looked more like himself and Liu Taizhen, lamenting how much he missed her.

In a sudden flash of light, Mei Si felt an inexplicable jolt, and his soul transferred into Liu Taizhen's body, while Liu Taizhen's soul entered his. At that very moment in the Beast Market, Liu Taizhen, whose soul was now in Mei Si’s body, was speaking with Mei Zhuyu when Wu Zhen arrived, accompanied by Mei Si, whose soul was now in Liu Taizhen’s body.

Wu Zhen quickly realized the soul swap and called out to Liu Taizhen (in Mei Si’s body), who then explained that Mei Si had caused the swap using the wooden dolls. Mei Si, trapped in Liu Taizhen’s body, was utterly shocked and cried out about becoming a woman. Wu Zhen, scolding him, suspected the wooden dolls to be the cause of this predicament.

Mei Si, in Liu Taizhen’s body, immediately insisted they leave the Beast Market to find his original body and switch back. On their way to Mei Zhuyu’s mansion, they had to navigate past several Beast Market guards, with Wu Zhen urging Mei Si (in Liu Taizhen’s body) to compose himself and not reveal their situation.

Once they arrived at Mei’s residence, Liu Taizhen (in Mei Si’s body), frustrated and impatient, confronted Mei Si (in Liu Taizhen’s body), telling him to stop making silly expressions with her face and demanding they switch their bodies back using the dolls. That night, Mei Zhuyu stood in the courtyard, where lanterns swayed gently in the night wind.

On the stone table, a few delicate dishes and osmanthus cakes, along with a pot of warmed Apricot Gold wine, which had been prepared for Wu Zhen's birthday, awaited. He had anticipated Wu Zhen would come, expecting her to appear in her demon form with something important to say, and preemptively offered an apology, admitting he had let her down that night. However, Wu Zhen’s expression remained cold.

She stated that from the moment Mei Zhuyu opened the barrier, she had understood his true intentions. She declared that the memories of their past conflicts, the swords drawn between them, could not be erased. Even if a ceasefire had been declared, they were still of different paths, and it was impossible for them to walk together.

She further explained that because of her, the killer of Mei Zhuyu's parents would continue to exist, and he would have to face his enemy day and night. If he did not kill her, and if one day his love for her waned and he sought revenge, she would pay with her life for their current love. Mei Zhuyu attempted to explain, but Wu Zhen was unwilling to listen.

She asserted that their destined connection had run its course and proposed a divorce, saying it was better to let each other go given their difficult and unpredictable situation. In a desperate attempt, Mei Zhuyu forcibly kissed her, but Wu Zhen pushed him away, turning and vanishing into the night, leaving behind only the untouched food and wine and a profound silence in the courtyard.

Episode 31 Recap

The sky had just begun to lighten when Wu Zhen ordered her servants to pack, and the group returned to the Duke’s manor in a grand procession, drawing stares and whispers from the city dwellers. Duke Wu was initially delighted to see his daughter, believing she had come home to visit him. “ Zhen came back to see me! Daughters are the best. My caring sweetheart.”

He even thought she had bought him a gift, but his face fell as he read the divorce deed handed to him by Mingzhuang. “ Wait. What’s going on here? Why?” he exclaimed, utterly shocked. At this moment, Mei Si, still bearing Liu Taizhen’s face, hurried to Mei Zhuyu. Onlookers gossiped, mistaking Mei Si for Young Lady Liu, saying, “Isn’t that Young Lady Liu? It really is. I heard Qinghe County Princess argued with Commissioner Mei.

She just moved out of the Mei Residence, and Young Lady Liu came over right away. Don’t you think Commissioner Mei is really lucky with women?” Mei Si, desperate, pleaded with Mei Zhuyu, “Zhuyu, help me. I really. . . I really can’t take it anymore. I feel so miserable.” He revealed he could no longer endure his daily duties at the Beast Market.

Mei Zhuyu explained that holding the puppets higher wouldn't help and there was no way to switch back for now. He also stressed the importance of keeping their body swap a secret, instructing Mei Si to play both Young Lady Liu and Serpent Master convincingly. Mei Si, still in Liu Taizhen’s body, complained about having to act like a proper lady and a demon master, finding the pressure unbearable.

Mei Zhuyu, concerned about appearances, urged him to get up, dismissing Mei Si's lament about Wu Zhen's departure. Rumors instantly spread throughout Chang’an. Duke Wu, enraged, stormed into the Mei Residence with Minister Liu Gongshen, brandishing a stick. “ Liu Gongshen, is the rumor true? That your daughter stole my son-in-law?” Minister Liu, who had just heard the news, defended his daughter, saying she wouldn't do such a thing. Duke Wu pointed out that "her" carriage was still outside.

Minister Liu suggested they go inside to clarify, and Duke Wu agreed, proposing they catch them red-handed. Upon bursting into the room, Duke Wu was horrified to see Mei Zhuyu and Mei Si (in Liu Taizhen's body) seemingly alone together, holding hands. “ Stop right there! What a crime! My daughter. This is retribution! How dare you betray my daughter?” he yelled at Mei Zhuyu.

Mei Si, flustered, tried to explain it was a misunderstanding, but Duke Wu insisted, “You two are alone in one room. Your hands were like this. And you call it a misunderstanding?” Minister Liu Gongshen, upon witnessing the scene, was so overwhelmed that he fainted. After Minister Liu recovered, Mei Zhuyu explained to Duke Wu and Minister Liu that Liu Taizhen’s visit was for medical treatment and to reconcile Wu Zhen and Mei Zhuyu.

Minister Liu, relieved that his daughter was not involved in an affair, still expressed his disapproval of Mei Si, saying he was unreliable and nowhere near as steady as Mei Zhuyu, so it was understandable if his daughter was unhappy with him. However, he stressed she should not interfere with others' marriages. Mei Si, hearing his "father's" criticism, couldn't help but defend himself, blurting out, “This has nothing to do with Young Master Mei Si!”

Minister Liu, misinterpreting this as his daughter defending Mei Si, exclaimed, “Are you my daughter? Why are you suddenly defending Young Master Mei Si?” Later that night, Liu Taizhen, still in Mei Si’s body, was furious upon learning how Mei Si had ruined her reputation. She muttered, "Well done. In just one day, I, a proper lady, have become someone who ruins others' relationships. You destroyed the reputation I've built over a decade in a single day."

She then asked Wu Zhen if a solution had been found. Wu Zhen explained what the doll seller had said: the puppet could make a person swap bodies with their beloved, and they would switch back when the other person developed true feelings. Liu Taizhen scoffed, “Is this a joke? I refuse to swap back. I don't mind continuing as Young Master Mei Si.”

She rejected this method, determined to find another way, and ordered Mei Si (in Liu Taizhen’s body) to return to the Beast Market as Serpent Master. Mei Si pleaded not to go back, calling the Beast Market terrifying, but Liu Taizhen was firm, threatening to kick him there herself. Wu Zhen then accompanied Mei Si (in Liu Taizhen’s body) to the Beast Market, reiterating that the key to swapping back lay with Liu Taizhen.

Mei Si was overwhelmed by the chaotic and unfamiliar environment, bewildered by demons openly squabbling over business. Wu Zhen suddenly felt dizzy and nearly collapsed, but Wu Zishu appeared just in time to support her. Wu Zishu noticed the dark bruises on her wrist, realizing they were not ordinary injuries but demonic wounds, a consequence of Cat Master's power exceeding her mortal body's capacity.

He explained that the cell transformation technique had caused a backlash, accelerating her body's breakdown, and her mortal form could no longer endure. Upon learning this truth, Wu Zhen finally broke down in tears, and Wu Zishu vowed, “Don’t worry, Zhen. No matter what, I won’t let anything happen to you.” Mei Si (in Liu Taizhen’s body) watched from a distance, confused about her condition.

Mei Zhuyu knelt before the memorial tablets of his parents, agonizing over the painful truth: the enemy he had pursued for over a decade resided within the body of the woman he loved. " I never thought that after waiting over ten years, the truth I thought was within reach would turn out like this. The enemy I wanted to kill with my own hands actually lives within the person I love.

Tell me, what am I supposed to do now?" A moment later, Mei Si (in Liu Taizhen’s body) clumsily got Mei Zhuyu’s attention, after having fallen from a tree he climbed to reach a locked door. He reported that Wu Zhen was ill, though he didn't know the specifics. After Mei Si left, Wu Zhen found Mei Zhuyu sitting alone in a dark corner of Ruyi Pavilion.

When he approached her with concern, she remained distant, coldly stating that their relationship was over. Mei Zhuyu asked to see her hand, further showing his concern. At Yuzhen Workshop, Liu Taizhen (still in Mei Si’s body) made an appearance at a gathering of noble youths. She immediately faced mockery and ridicule. Ling Xiao intervened, explaining that these young men, who were her admirers, resented Mei Si's persistent pursuit of her, leading them to taunt "him".

Liu Taizhen then learned that Mei Si would typically just laugh off these insults, except for one occasion when a Young Master Wu had spoken harshly about her. Enraged, Mei Si had stormed into the Wu Residence and fought him to defend her honor. Recalling Mei Si’s unwavering devotion and now realizing how he had defended her, Liu Taizhen was deeply touched.

Liu Taizhen (still in Mei Si’s body) later summoned Mei Si (still in Liu Taizhen’s body) to ask about his conflict with the young master from the Wu family. Mei Si humbly admitted he was no match for him but insisted he couldn't let anyone insult Liu Taizhen's name. Hearing this, Liu Taizhen, moved by his genuine concern and sincerity, apologized to Mei Si for her previous dismissiveness and harsh treatment.

As her apology hung in the air, their bodies suddenly swapped back to their original forms. Wu Zhen's words proved true: Liu Taizhen had indeed fallen in love with Mei Si. Mei Si, overjoyed, exclaimed, "We swapped back! We swapped back, Young Lady Liu! He said this thing can let you swap bodies with the one you love. Once the other develops true feelings, you can swap back."

Liu Taizhen, in her own body once more, quickly left, overwhelmed by her newfound feelings. That night, Mei Zhuyu infiltrated Yuzhen Workshop and held Ling Xiao hostage to compel Wu Zhen to meet him. Liu Taizhen arrived with Wu Zhen and sharply rebuked Mei Zhuyu for his dishonorable tactics. Mei Zhuyu, unfazed, demanded that Wu Zhen have dinner with him. The table was laden with dishes prepared precisely to Wu Zhen’s liking.

Mei Zhuyu looked intently at her, explaining that his decade-long pursuit of revenge had left him cold and heartless, but it was Wu Zhen who had pulled him back into the mortal world, and he could not simply abandon her. Wu Zhen, however, dismissed his words, suggesting he had read too many romantic stories and that human bonds weren't so difficult to let go of. Mei Zhuyu, perplexed, pressed her, "If that's the case, why do you keep avoiding me? What are you hiding?"

Episode 32 Recap

Mei Zhuyu sensed that Wu Zhen was keeping a secret. Despite his repeated inquiries, she evaded his questions. Seeing her persistent refusal to confide in him, he resorted to threatening Ling Xiao's life to compel her to speak. Under duress, Wu Zhen finally revealed the truth: she is half-human and half-demon, and to fully transform into a demon, she would need to enter seclusion for a hundred years.

This revelation profoundly shocked Mei Zhuyu, as a century meant eternal separation for a mortal. He was overcome with guilt, realizing that his past actions might have been the reason she wished to become a full demon, and he deeply regretted the pain he had caused her. As Wu Zhen turned to leave, she suddenly felt unwell and instructed Liu Taizhen and Hu Zhu to take her to the Beast Market. Her body was now covered in spreading demon sores.

Upon arrival, Wu Zishu immediately performed a secret spell. During the transfer of power, Wu Zhen saw her demon core fully exposed. She tried to resist but was too weak to move. Wu Zishu explained that her body had been gravely damaged by a cell transformation technique and could no longer endure; only by becoming a full demon could her life be saved. He vowed to stay by her side forever, regardless of how the world changed.

Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu suddenly recalled that Wu Zhen's unique constitution meant that a forced demon transformation would inevitably cause a backlash. He quickly rushed to the Beast Market, bringing Ling Xiao with him. Liu Taizhen also sensed a powerful surge of sinister aura within the Beast Market. Moments later, the sinister aura inside Wu Zhen violently erupted, threatening to tear her body apart. In a critical moment, Mei Zhuyu and Liu Taizhen worked together to stop Wu Zishu's ritual.

Unexpectedly, this forced infusion of the demon core, instead of transforming her, actually suppressed the rampant sinister aura within her. As a result of the chaotic energy, Wu Zhen instantly reverted to her tabby cat form and panicked, fleeing back to the human realm. Mei Zhuyu, consumed by worry, was about to rush out to find her when Liu Taizhen coldly stopped him.

She sternly warned him that if the sinister aura within Wu Zhen spiraled out of control, she would have to be killed to prevent a greater catastrophe. Mei Zhuyu, however, ignored the warning and spent the entire night frantically searching the empty streets for the cat, but to no avail. He returned home dejected. As he stepped into the courtyard, he spotted a familiar tabby cat curled under the eaves.

He was struck by the realization that their past chance encounters were never mere coincidences. Overwhelmed with remorse, Mei Zhuyu humbly knelt and apologized to the cat. He then prepared a special spiritual tea designed to absorb sinister energy and gently fed it to the tabby cat. The next morning, Wu Zhen awoke to find a strange man beside her. Observing him and remembering he had called her "Madam" the previous night, she assumed they were husband and wife.

Mei Zhuyu, hearing her confused questions, realized she had lost her memory. He quickly summoned Liu Taizhen and Mei Si to discuss a plan. Unexpectedly, Wu Zhen then climbed over a wall to steal fresh peaches from a neighbor, gleefully offering them to everyone. She seemed to have completely forgotten her identity as a county princess, yet she vaguely remembered herself as Mei Zhuyu's wife. Later that night, Mei Zhuyu was gently combing Wu Zhen's hair.

After she had fallen asleep and the night grew quiet, Wu Zishu secretly entered the room, intending to take the sleeping Wu Zhen away. The two men confronted each other, their eyes cold with resolve. Wu Zishu claimed an eighteen-year bond of master and servant with Wu Zhen, accusing Mei Zhuyu of being a mere interloper.

Mei Zhuyu retorted that even if Wu Zhen were to regain her memory and resent him, she would never choose Wu Zishu, a fact he believed Wu Zishu knew in his heart. Awakened by the commotion, Wu Zhen appeared, but she showed no recognition of Wu Zishu. Heartbroken, Wu Zishu left. Mei Zhuyu then asked Wu Zhen if she truly trusted him, despite the possibility of deception. She simply replied that she trusted him because he was "good-looking."

Mei Zhuyu proposed they leave Chang'an for a trip, and Wu Zhen happily agreed. To find a permanent cure for Wu Zhen's condition, Mei Zhuyu decided to take her out of Chang'an to search for the legendary "Zhuyu Immortal Herb", which offered a glimmer of hope. Liu Taizhen saw them off, reminding Mei Zhuyu that he should not further complicate Wu Zhen's attachment to the mortal world after she recovers, as her life grew more perilous with each passing day.

Mei Zhuyu affirmed that he only wished for her to live, and he could endure never seeing her again if it meant her survival. After their departure, Liu Taizhen returned to the Mei Manor, where Mei Si was painting her portrait. Suddenly, Ling Xiao arrived with news that Wu Zishu was causing trouble again in the Beast Market. Liu Taizhen immediately left for the Beast Market.

Concerned for Liu Taizhen's safety, Mei Si repeatedly pleaded with Xuan Hui to assist, but Xuan Hui steadfastly refused to return to the Beast Market due to a past grievance. At the Beast Market, Wu Zishu was consumed by rage, threatening to leave and seek revenge on Mei Zhuyu, even explicitly threatening to kill Ling Xiao. Liu Taizhen arrived just in time, using her authority to intimidate him and quell his aggression.

Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen had sought shelter in an abandoned house. As they settled in, Mei Zhuyu noticed a broom moving on its own, and the surroundings grew eerily silent.

Episode 33 Recap

Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen found temporary shelter in an abandoned house. Suddenly, a broom nearby began to shake violently. Mei Zhuyu, performing a hand seal, revealed the broom to be a spirit, which hastily reverted to human form and brushed off sparks from its clothes. The broom spirit apologized, explaining it had been placed too close to the fire. Wu Zhen remarked on the broom spirit's wretched appearance, but Mei Zhuyu, seeing it had no malicious intent, spared it.

He then asked the spirit if it knew anything about the Zhuyu herb, but the broom spirit was completely clueless. Wu Zhen, curious, asked Mei Zhuyu about the herb, wondering if he was ill. As Mei Zhuyu and Wu Zhen continued their journey, they came upon an old woman who had fallen in the deep forest. Wu Zhen, with compassion, helped her up.

The old woman claimed to have heard of the Zhuyu herb and directed them to a famous physician named Gu who lived in the mountains and had a garden filled with various spiritual herbs. As Mei Zhuyu prepared to leave, he felt it was improper to leave the old woman alone and turned back to offer her a ride, but she had vanished without a trace.

In her place, a secluded courtyard with a fence appeared as the white mist dissipated. A young boy, seemingly expecting them, bowed and led them into the main hall. Inside, four other individuals were already waiting: a wealthy merchant, an elderly man, a beautiful woman, and a quiet young gentleman who seemed to be a detached observer.

The physician's voice, which Wu Zhen recognized as that of the old woman from the mountain, then spoke from behind a curtain, stating that sincerity would grant wishes and that there was a price for everything. She announced she would speak to each person in turn, asking others to wait. The wealthy merchant explained he sought a son to inherit his vast family fortune.

The elderly man, who had only achieved success in middle age, desired to prolong his life to enjoy his hard-earned power and wealth. The beautiful woman confessed she felt her beauty was being challenged and wished to regain her position as the most beautiful, even if it cost her life. Soon, the merchant emerged, overjoyed, clutching a white jade bottle and exclaiming that he was having a son.

Next, the old man entered and later came out, his back hunched and coughing, but still beaming, content that he would hold his position for another hundred years. Finally, the woman exited, her face covered by a veil and white gauze. She declared herself the most beautiful, though she seemed unable to see her surroundings and needed assistance. Wu Zhen remarked to Mei Zhuyu that the situation felt increasingly strange.

When it was their turn, Mei Zhuyu instructed Wu Zhen to enter alone while he remained in the hall. Inside, Wu Zhen faced the physician, whose voice she recognized. The physician pointed out that Wu Zhen's ailment was unusual. Wu Zhen, pressing further, accused the physician of luring them there while disguised as an old woman. Growing impatient, Wu Zhen abruptly pulled back the curtain, revealing not a physician, but a withered straw figure.

Horrified, she tried to flee but found the exit blocked by bricks. Meanwhile, in the main hall, Mei Zhuyu confronted the quiet young gentleman, correctly identifying him as the true manipulator behind the events. The young gentleman, admitting his role, inquired when Mei Zhuyu had realized this, to which Mei Zhuyu replied that he knew from the moment they entered. He accused the young gentleman of deceiving people in the name of the spirit herb.

The young gentleman countered that he never deliberately deceived anyone, but rather people's own greed for the Zhuyu herb led them to him. He confirmed he indeed possessed the Zhuyu herb, but for all desires, a greater price must be paid. He revealed the merchant would gain a son but lose his entire fortune, the elder would extend his life but be plagued by terrible illnesses, and the beautiful woman would gain unparalleled beauty but be permanently blinded.

Mei Zhuyu angrily called him a lunatic, but the young gentleman argued that people's desires drove them to madness, and he was merely making them pay for their own greed. He then challenged Mei Zhuyu to find the most precious herb in his garden within a quarter of an hour, promising free treatment for Wu Zhen if he succeeded. Mei Zhuyu accepted. In the garden, Mei Zhuyu quickly identified the single genuine plant among the illusions.

The young gentleman, revealing himself to be the Zhuyu herb spirit, acknowledged Mei Zhuyu as a Celestial Master and dared him to capture him. Inside, Wu Zhen found an old medical casebook, which revealed that the Zhuyu herb spirit had once been a benevolent physician. Wu Zhen confronted the spirit, asking why it had changed from a sincere healer to a vengeful entity. The spirit scoffed at sincerity, recounting its past.

It had been a plant, nurtured by a master who hoped it would one day gain human form and heal the world. Despite its master's promise to wait, when it finally achieved human form, it found the mansion empty and believed it had been abandoned. Heartbroken, it left for Quzhou, intending to continue healing, but grew disillusioned by people's ingratitude and accusations.

It explained how it had offered free treatment, only to be doubted, slandered, and blamed for the inevitable deaths of elderly patients. This past betrayal fueled its current practice of making people pay a heavy price for their desires. Wu Zhen argued that while past patients were wrong, it shouldn't punish innocent people who genuinely sought help. The Zhuyu herb spirit, still full of resentment, attacked Mei Zhuyu.

Suddenly, Wu Zhen unleashed a surge of Cat Spirit power, then collapsed, unconscious. The spirit was shocked, asking who she was and how she possessed such power. He then revealed that his own master had been the Cat Spirit. Mei Zhuyu explained that the spirit's master was the "former" Cat Spirit, who had died eighteen years ago while saving Chang'an from a devastating fire.

The Zhuyu herb spirit, realizing its master hadn't abandoned it but had died, was filled with regret and remorse, blaming itself for its shallow cultivation and inability to help its master. Mei Zhuyu comforted him, stating that some things are fated and cannot be changed, but there is still time for redemption. Wu Zhen then woke, asking where the demon had gone. Mei Zhuyu told her the spirit had repented and returned to its original form.

The Zhuyu herb spirit, now in its plant form, informed Mei Zhuyu that it could not cure Wu Zhen; her condition was not an illness but a demonic tribulation. It offered its original body to Mei Zhuyu, hoping it might be useful in an emergency. Meanwhile, Mei Si waited at the entrance to the Beast Market for Liu Taizhen.

When she arrived, he led her to a lake and attempted to impress her by demonstrating a "newly learned spell," conjuring a few fireflies. Liu Taizhen, though she immediately deduced that Xuan Hui was behind the trick, was touched by Mei Si's gesture. She then called Xuan Hui out from his hiding spot.

Liu Taizhen expressed her dissatisfaction with Xuan Hui's idleness since arriving in Chang'an, urging him to practice his magic more diligently instead of just lounging between the Mei and Liu residences. Xuan Hui defiantly claimed he cultivated every day and would have become a Ying Dragon long ago if Liu Taizhen hadn't imprisoned him. He boasted he would one day soar through the heavens and wouldn't bother with a "trivial serpent" like her.

Liu Taizhen calmly waved her sleeve, unleashing hundreds of luminous fireflies, a dazzling spectacle that left Mei Si awestruck. As the night turned to dawn and they returned, Mei Si, unable to fight off his drowsiness, leaned his head on Liu Taizhen's shoulder. She tensed but allowed him to rest, a subtle emotion stirring within her. Mei Si, still drowsy, offered her water, concerned she might be thirsty.

Episode 34 Recap

Mei Si and Liu Taizhen were returning to the capital after a night out when their carriage was spotted by Huang Dazhuang. Recognizing Mei Si, Huang Dazhuang questioned him about his disheveled appearance and insisted on inspecting the carriage, suspecting he was hiding someone, perhaps even a courtesan, especially given Mei Si had rejected Liu Taizhen’s marriage proposal. Huang Dazhuang emphasized his duty to keep Mei Si from going astray while Wu Zhen and Commissioner Mei were away.

To avoid further questioning and gossip, Liu Taizhen used magic to disappear, leaving Huang Dazhuang baffled by the empty carriage. Liu Taizhen then confronted Mei Si, asking if she should have remained to endure public speculation. Xuan Hui, also present, encouraged Liu Taizhen to express her true feelings for Mei Si, pointing out that Cat Master Wu Zhen was already married. Liu Taizhen denied any affection for Mei Si, humorously accusing Xuan Hui of becoming a matchmaker.

Xuan Hui clarified that Mei Si was his only friend, and he was merely showing concern before his imminent departure. Xuan Hui then revealed to Liu Taizhen that he would soon ascend as a dragon. While Liu Taizhen offered congratulations, Xuan Hui admitted his sole remaining concern was Mei Si's happiness, asking her to visit him often, as each meeting would bring joy to the mortal's short life.

Liu Taizhen playfully dismissed his attempts at matchmaking, but Xuan Hui insisted on entrusting Mei Si to her care. He led Liu Taizhen to Mei Si’s room, choosing to enter through the window, much to Liu Taizhen’s amusement as she remarked on him adopting Mei Si’s habits. Inside, they found raw chicken hearts and blood on the table.

Xuan Hui explained that Mei Si, misguided by "random books," had been foolishly consuming raw chicken hearts for 49 days, believing it would transform him into a demon so he could be with Liu Taizhen. Mei Si had even attempted to get Xuan Hui to bite his neck or take a drop of his blood on a full moon, only to be hit in response. Xuan Hui urged Liu Taizhen to guide Mei Si away from such foolishness.

Liu Taizhen observed the room, which was filled with numerous portraits of herself, a clear indication of Mei Si's feelings for her. In the Beast Market, Wu Zishu encountered Elder Hui, who had grown accustomed to visiting Wu Zishu's archive despite the strict "no entry without invitation" rule, as most demons believed Elder Hui was dead. Elder Hui sought Wu Zishu's help to leave the Beast Market, claiming he could assist Wu Zishu from the outside.

Wu Zishu was suspicious, fearing Elder Hui would harm Wu Zhen if unleashed. Elder Hui tried to reassure him, stating he would not act independently since Wu Zishu had resurrected him. Wu Zishu then questioned Elder Hui's need for a "demon core" and whom he intended to harm. Elder Hui lashed out, criticizing Wu Zishu for his lack of ambition as the Sinister Fiend Infant's aide, accusing him of being "useless" and hesitant over a "half-demon" like Wu Zhen.

Wu Zishu retorted by asking about Elder Hui's whereabouts 18 years ago when the Beast Market was attacked. Elder Hui corrected him, revealing a hidden truth: the Sinister Fiend Infant wasn't attacking the Beast Market, but "reclaiming" it, as he was its true founder. Elder Hui recounted his ancient past as a mountain rat spirit before Chang'an existed, describing how human greed sparked wars that devastated his home and forced demons into hiding.

He explained that the Sinister Fiend Infant had established the Celestial Barrier and the Beast Market to restore demon sovereignty and overthrow the mortal realm. Elder Hui expressed his contempt for the "first two Masters" (Cat Master and Serpent Master), whom he deemed "despicable" for usurping control, banishing the Sinister Fiend Infant, and merely perpetuating their own power without achieving anything. Elder Hui confirmed this was why he held no respect for the current Cat Master or Serpent Master.

He spoke of his thousand-year wait for the Sinister Fiend Infant's return, which occurred 18 years prior, believing that had he been free, the Sinister Fiend Infant would not have been defeated by the former Cat Master. Elder Hui, dismissing current demon leadership as "ridiculous fools" for confining demons for the sake of "mere humans," declared his unwavering commitment to revive the Sinister Fiend Infant and establish a new Chang'an, "ruled by demons" and never to be equal with mortals.

Later, Wu Zishu awoke from a disturbing dream. He had seen an ancient battlefield where the Sinister Fiend Infant obtained a powerful artifact that subsequently vanished, leaving Wu Zishu perplexed about its secret and questioning what the Sinister Fiend Infant had inscribed upon him. Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu brought Wu Zhen to Changxi Palace. Upon arrival, he introduced her to his Fifth Senior Brother, Lu Yang, a master healer known for his reticence.

Their reunion was also witnessed by a terrified Lian Fu, another senior brother, who was visibly frightened by Wu Zhen's demon identity. The others quickly reassured him that Wu Zhen, having lost her memory, was harmless and now part of their family. While exploring, Wu Zhen, who no longer remembered her powers, stumbled into a residual training formation.

Just as she was about to be harmed, the Changxi Mace in her hand activated on its own, allowing her to effortlessly dispel the magical array, leaving her proud and amazed. The next morning, Mei Zhuyu was seen emerging from Wu Zhen’s room, creating an awkward moment with Second Senior Brother, who teasingly remarked on the couple’s inability to be apart even for a night.

To subtly separate them, Second Senior Brother encouraged Wu Zhen to explore the "dull and quiet" but "elegant" Changxi Palace, suggesting she try the wild fruits gathered by Lu Yang. Wu Zhen, eager to explore, agreed. Second Senior Brother then entrusted Mei Zhuyu with the keys to the Changxi Palace archive, including the secret chamber, urging him to search for a cure for Wu Zhen's amnesia and assuring him they would "pretend they never knew" if he accessed restricted sections.

Second Senior Brother expressed his bewilderment at Mei Zhuyu's profound sacrifice for one woman, but Mei Zhuyu resolutely affirmed it was "worth it." Wu Zhen, exploring the palace, found herself captivated by a training ground where muscular, bare-chested men practiced martial arts, chanting "Sword draws the three luminaries, will protects the universe." She watched with a bright smile. Meanwhile, Mei Zhuyu and a senior brother searched the archive for a cure but found nothing.

Jiang Yi offered to check the secret chamber. Mei Zhuyu grew visibly jealous watching Wu Zhen's admiration for the other men. When she asked if they were handsome, he reluctantly agreed. Wu Zhen then declared that her husband was surely just as handsome, though her amnesia made her playfully question her own memory as he quickly asserted he was "no less than they are" and she didn't need to "prove it."

Mei Si sat dejectedly in his room, wondering why Liu Taizhen had suddenly become distant. Xuan Hui, appearing as if "passing by," found Mei Si contemplating whether his foolish attempts to become a demon were the reason for Liu Taizhen’s changed attitude. Xuan Hui dismissed this, reminding Mei Si of his many past follies. Mei Si explained he couldn't reach Liu Taizhen in the Beast Market, to which Xuan Hui replied he was there to "bring him the news."

Xuan Hui informed Mei Si that Liu Taizhen had left the Beast Market an hour ago for Yuzhen Workshop. Before Xuan Hui could complete his announcement that he would "ascend to become a dragon" that very night, Mei Si, without hearing the end, rushed off. At Yuzhen Workshop, Liu Taizhen, discussing new materials with an attendant, was informed of Mei Si’s imminent arrival.

Aware of his persistence, she decided to use the back door, remarking on his quick access to information. However, Mei Si, having anticipated her move, was already waiting at the back exit. He stated his carriage was at the front, but his understanding of her led him to the back. When Liu Taizhen asked why he wanted to see her, Mei Si demanded to know why her attitude had changed so abruptly after their enjoyable time at Qiu Pond.

Liu Taizhen tried to dismiss it as "nothing," but Mei Si insisted she was not a fickle person and something significant must have happened, pleading for an explanation. Finally, Liu Taizhen invited him inside to talk.

Episode 35 Recap

Liu Taizhen gracefully arrived at Yuzhenfang, solemnly asking Mei Si about his profound affection for her. Mei Si knew that he had admired Liu Taizhen since childhood, but Liu Taizhen sadly revealed that the Liu Taizhen who had been his childhood sweetheart had unfortunately passed away ten years ago.

A mortal body falling from a cliff would surely be shattered to pieces and die without a doubt, and she herself had merely survived by chance at that time, using the other Liu Taizhen's body. Meanwhile, Wu Zhen was diligently studying magic in Changxi Pavilion, eagerly hoping to cleverly integrate magic with demonic arts, perhaps becoming an unparalleled master renowned throughout the land.

Mei Zhuyu quietly watched her cute and innocent demeanor, his eyes filled with tenderness and love, as if the whole world brightened because of her. Mei Si returned to his residence utterly dejected. Xuan Hui had intended to excitedly inform him of his impending transformation into a dragon, but Mei Si was immersed in endless grief, turning a deaf ear to Xuan Hui's words.

At this moment, lightning flashed across the sky, and amidst the thunder and lightning, Xuan Hui faced the critical moment of his tribulation to transform into a dragon. He endured forty-nine fierce thunderbolts, but because he still had unfulfilled wishes in the mortal world, he ultimately failed to transform into a dragon.

At this moment, various scenes of his time with Mei Si suddenly appeared in his mind, and seeing Mei Si's heartbroken appearance, he instantly realized the profound attachment he had in his heart. Wu Zhen hurried to the Fifth Senior Brother, wanting him to treat the injury on her arm, but the Fifth Senior Brother, believing that men and women should not touch, was quite reserved in his demeanor.

Suddenly, he was able to speak many words, causing the other senior brothers to tease him, saying he must be possessed by a demon, otherwise, he wouldn't be so abnormal. Liu Taizhen knew she didn't want to follow in Wu Zhen's footsteps, and some things still needed to be made clear to Mei Si. So, she solemnly warned Xuan Hui not to try to set her and Mei Si up again in the future.

After a night of careful consideration, Mei Si decided to inquire about Liu Taizhen's burial place, and She Gong led him to an unmarked tombstone in a desolate wilderness. Mei Si arrived at the Secret Chamber with a solemn expression, slowly opening the long-sealed magical artifact. He intended to investigate, but the Second Senior Brother was worried, feeling that this action was too risky. If there was even a slight mishap, he would be trapped inside, with unthinkable consequences.

However, for Wu Zhen, Mei Zhuyu had already made up his mind. Seeing this, the other senior brothers had no choice but to guard him and ensure his safety. Meanwhile, Huzhu inadvertently discovered the furtive Wuzishu, and suspicion immediately arose in her heart. Ling Xiao arrived at Yuzhenfang and unexpectedly found Mei Si, who had been drinking for three days. He then specifically sat down to drink heartily with him.

During the meal, Ling Xiao also spoke a few more words of concern for him, and even lamented that his feelings for Liu Taizhen were not merely simple childhood affection for the old Liu Taizhen, but a deeper emotion. A single word awakened the dreamer; Mei Si seemed to instantly discover where his true feelings lay. Elder Hui stealthily arrived at the Demon Market and secretly met with Wuzishu.

Upon learning that Wuzishu had not yet obtained the key to open the door to the Demonic Infant, Elder Hui further declared his loyalty, wanting to enter that mysterious place with him, and even suggested starting with Mao Gong. Once inside, he would find a way to save Wu Zhen and would absolutely not interfere with Wuzishu's actions. While Wu Zhen was asleep, Mei Zhuyu quietly came to the Secret Chamber.

Under the protection of the senior brothers, he resolutely entered the magical artifact. He slowly opened his eyes, as if he had returned to that night more than ten years ago; everything was both familiar and strange.

Episode 36 Recap

Mei Zhuyu entered the magical artifact, and in a trance, returned to many years ago. He appeared in front of the Mei Family Teahouse, slowly reaching out to open the door. Everything inside was so familiar, clean and tidy as if nothing had ever left. At this moment, he was shocked to see his mother fainted inside. He quickly pulled his mother's hand, but she ultimately left him.

His younger self walked to his mother's side, his face full of bewilderment and sadness. Mei Zhuyu gently comforted him. Meanwhile, a fire suddenly broke out in the capital. Little Wuzhen stood trembling by the roadside when a mass of malevolent energy, like lightning, struck her. She instantly lost her breath and died on the spot. At this moment, a black cat slowly walked to Wuzhen's body.

Mei Zhuyu approached, unsure of the black cat's identity, until a younger Mei Zhuyu ran over and called out the black cat's father's name, which made him suddenly realize that his own father was the former Cat Lord. He hadn't expected such an event to have occurred eighteen years ago. On the other hand, Wuzhen had been in a coma for three full days and suddenly regained her memories. Huzhu accompanied her to the great hall.

After careful confirmation, the Fifth Senior Brother informed Wuzhen that her demon sore had already healed, which greatly impressed Wuzhen. Learning that Mei Zhuyu had found the cure and had left before she woke up, Wuzhen understood in her heart that she knew she disliked seeing him. The Second Senior Brother generously bestowed the Changxi Palace's techniques upon Wuzhen, to help her regulate her breath and recuperate.

Wuzhen looked at the bowls and chopsticks on the table, and a feeling of missing Mei Zhuyu inexplicably arose in her heart. She returned to her room and quietly gazed at Mei Zhuyu's small portrait, a gentle smile inadvertently appearing at the corner of her lips. Meanwhile, Shuangjiang always wanted to stand out and make a name for himself, but his aptitude was mediocre, and his magical power was the shallowest among all senior brothers.

Huzhu patiently comforted him, saying that cultivators should first cultivate their minds; as long as their inner thoughts are firm, they will surely succeed. Shuangjiang gave Huzhu an ancient golden crystal, asking her to take it back to the demon market to be trained, considering it a playmate for her. After Huzhu and Wuzhen left Changxi Palace, the Second Senior Brother eagerly returned to his room.

It turned out that Mei Zhuyu had been severely injured during this trip into the magical artifact and was still unconscious. On the other hand, an old man claimed to have encountered pythons in the forest. For the peace and stability of Chang'an, he specifically distributed sulfur for free to the common people to drive away snakes. Just then, the Snake Lord passed by in a carriage. Due to inhaling a large amount of sulfur, her snake tail involuntarily manifested.

Fortunately, Mei Si appeared in time, took off his clothes to cover her, and carried Liu Taizhen back to the Mei Residence in front of everyone, ordering the Mei Residence to prohibit the use of sulfur. Mei Si considerately took care of Liu Taizhen, which made Liu Taizhen feel a touch of emotion in her heart. In contrast, Xuanhui, who was beside them, thought that the two should actually thank the sulfur, otherwise, such an intimate scene wouldn't have happened.

However, Liu Taizhen felt that this incident was suspicious, as if it were aimed at her. At that time, a passerby insisted on entering the carriage to check, indicating that they were well-prepared. Afterward, Mei Si even offered a reward for information, and passersby came forward seeking it, hoping that Liu Taizhen could find the person who spread the rumors. This person falsely claimed that he was merely selling some sulfur for a small profit by spreading rumors.

Liu Taizhen believed him and let him go, unaware that this person was acting under the orders of the Nameless Book and was later silenced by the Nameless Book. Mei Si was tied up by Gray Elder in the forest, used as bait to lure Liu Taizhen. Xuanhui sensed Mei Si was in danger and rushed to save him, but he was no match for Gray Elder and was severely wounded.

Before dying, Xuanhui did not forget to cast a spell to loosen Mei Si's ropes, urging him to leave quickly. But Mei Si did not escape; with the body of a mortal, he bravely confronted Gray Elder, yet he was as weak as an ant before him. At this moment, Liu Taizhen rushed over but fell into Gray Elder's trap and was poisoned by sulfur. Gray Elder demanded the serpent scales in exchange for the lives of the three of them.

Episode 37 Recap

Elder Hui came up with a plan, intending to use the snake scale to exchange for the lives of the three people. Liu Taizhen agreed immediately upon hearing this. Elder Hui, holding the snake scale, hurriedly departed. However, Xuan Hui, due to severe injuries, ultimately failed to recover and passed away. On the other side, Wu Zhen returned to the Xuanjian Department, surprised to find that Mei Zhuyu had not returned to the capital.

His colleagues greatly missed Mei Zhuyu and were constantly annoyed by trivial official duties, secretly wondering how Mei Zhuyu managed to handle everything so orderly. Wu Zhen gazed at the receding figures of everyone, and in a daze, seemed to see Mei Zhuyu's silhouette. Afterwards, she arrived at the Mei Residence. She saw that the furnishings inside the residence were still as they were.

The household servants, seeing Wu Zhen's return, hastily asked why Mei Zhuyu had not returned with her. At this moment, Huzhu rushed over and informed Wu Zhen of Xuan Hui's death. Liu Taizhen was deeply saddened upon hearing this, so she ordered Mei Si to find a good resting place for Xuan Hui. She then returned to the Demon Market with Wu Zhen, worried that there might be changes in Chang'an.

Wu Zhen decisively ordered to heighten the security of the Demon Market, allowing Liu Taizhen to recuperate and heal with peace of mind. At this moment, Wuzishu looked at Wu Zhen, secretly delighted, but Huzhu ignored him. Wu Zhen asked about the places that could be opened simultaneously using the Cat Lord's blood and the snake scale. Wuzishu listed these locations one by one, but Huzhu and others had investigated them before and found nothing unusual.

Wu Zhen suddenly recalled the abandoned warehouse, a place previously left behind. Because no one had ever gone there, she didn't know what was hidden inside. So, Wu Zhen went there with everyone, using her own blood to open the warehouse door. Although there were no traces inside, she had a strong intuition that a secret was hidden there. At this moment, a curtain came into view.

She reached out and opened it, and a gigantic stone statue of the Sinister Demonic Infant suddenly appeared before her eyes, genuinely surprising Wuzishu. Only then did he realize he had been deceived by Elder Hui. Afterwards, Wuzishu searched everywhere for Elder Hui, wanting to confront him and ask where that item in the warehouse was truly hidden. This item was extremely important, capable of transforming Wu Zhen into a full demon.

But at this moment, Elder Hui suddenly transformed into Wu Zhen's appearance. It turned out that Wu Zhen, through practicing the Constant Moonlight Palace arts, had discovered some truths, and this time she used the warehouse to test Wuzishu. Wuzishu was enraged and embarrassed, attempting to control Wu Zhen again, but he didn't know that Wu Zhen had already become a full demon. Wuzishu had thought he could be with her forever, but he was still rejected by Wu Zhen.

He immediately released hidden weapons towards Wu Zhen. Wu Zhen's true form instinctively counterattacked, and Wuzishu effectively committed suicide with his own hidden weapons. Wu Zhen watched him, who had accompanied her for many years, die, and was deeply saddened. Wu Zhen arrived at the Demon Market, horrified to see her own kind brutally murdered, and her heart was filled with immense grief.

At this moment, Elder Hui led her to the lowest level of the Demon Prison, setting a trap to ensnare Wu Zhen. Elder Hui recalled the past, how he was once a rat that everyone wanted to beat, but fortunately, the Sinister Demonic Infant took him in and established the Demon Market, providing him with a sanctuary. The reason he was dissatisfied with Wu Zhen was precisely because he didn't want humans and demons to coexist peacefully.

He took out the origin stolen from the warehouse, intending to use the Demonic Infant Core within the Cat Lord to rescue the Sinister Demonic Infant, thereby making himself a founding hero. Huzhu, Liu Taizhen, and the others were trapped by magic in the Demon Prison, unable to move. On the other side, as Wu Zhen lay unconscious, she recalled the scene where the previous Cat Lord saved her with his own body.

She suddenly woke up, only to see Mei Zhuyu approaching, opening the magical formation with his own blood. It turned out that the Cat Lord's blood flowed through Mei Zhuyu's veins, and he had also found a way to deal with the indestructible Sinister Demonic Infant, voluntarily placing the Demonic Infant Core into his own body to save Wu Zhen.

Episode 38 (Ending) Recap

The night of the new moon quietly descended, and Gray Elder was restless, about to begin rescuing the Evil Wraith Infant. This time, Wu Zhen, with the strong assistance of Mei Zhuyu, successfully escaped from the Demon Prison. Gray Elder was no longer a threat; when the people of Changxi Palace and the demons united their magic, fully attempting to seal the Wraith Infant's essence, Gray Elder instantly panicked and fled in disarray.

Seeing this, Wu Zhen quickly pursued him, successfully seized Gray Elder's demon core, and Gray Elder's soul scattered as a result. At this moment, however, the crowd found it difficult to suppress the overwhelming malevolent energy of the Evil Wraith Infant. That malevolent energy suddenly escaped wildly from the formation, rushing directly towards Wu Zhen. Seeing this critical situation, Mei Zhuyu quickly stepped in to help.

Wu Zhen then realized with a start that Mei Zhuyu had already contracted a demon blight; no wonder her own demon core had inexplicably disappeared – it turned out he had endured this calamity in her place. Mei Zhuyu slowly recounted the past, revealing that he was actually the one who should have been afflicted by the Cat Lord's power 18 years ago. At that time, his father had given him a mysterious lantern imbued with the Cat Lord's power.

However, that night he unexpectedly met little Wu Zhen, and out of pity, he gave the lantern to her. Who would have thought that this action would lead the Evil Wraith Infant to mistakenly believe Wu Zhen was a descendant of the Cat Lord, thereby launching a fierce attack on her? Now, he was also reclaiming the life path that should have been his.

Seeing the malevolent energy surge out like a raging tide, Mei Zhuyu unhesitatingly pulled out the Changxi Mace, solemnly telling Wu Zhen to kill him shortly. He resolutely used his demon core to absorb the Wraith Infant's malevolent energy, but that malevolent energy was too powerful; his body was clearly on the verge of being unable to contain this evil force. In a moment of clarity, Mei Zhuyu urgently told Wu Zhen to act quickly.

However, Wu Zhen was filled with reluctance and could not bring herself to do it. At this point, Mei Zhuyu suddenly stopped all movements, walked quietly in front of Wu Zhen, and gently and lovingly persuaded Wu Zhen to put down the Changxi Mace, vowing that they would surely live together forever in the future.

Wu Zhen did not lose her mind because of this; she directly used all her strength, merging demon magic with Changxi Palace's sorcery, and resolutely killed Mei Zhuyu with the Changxi Mace. On the other side, the common people finally broke free from the Wraith Infant's evil control. The streets regained their former bustling liveliness, and pure white snow began to flutter down from the sky. Wu Zhen held Mei Zhuyu tightly, bidding him a heartfelt farewell.

From their first meeting to their marriage, the two had endured too many hardships and challenges together. Subsequently, Mei Zhuyu slowly closed his eyes in front of Wu Zhen, and Wu Zhen, heartbroken, wept profusely. Time flowed by swiftly, and three months quietly passed. The Ruyi Building was still exceptionally lively, filled with guests, and Huzhu was managing all affairs within the building in an orderly manner.

On the other side, Shuangjiang embarked on a journey to roam the Jianghu with his senior brothers. Along the way, they subdued demons and vanquished evil, capturing malevolent demons that committed wrongdoings. Before Shuangjiang left, he couldn't help but look in the direction of the capital, silently bidding farewell to Huzhu. Huzhu quietly gazed into the distance, sincerely wishing him a safe journey and all the best. On the other side, Mei Si, inspired, meticulously wrote several books about demons.

As soon as these books were published, they became immensely popular throughout the capital, and Mei Si's reputation soared, becoming widely renowned. At this moment, he accidentally knocked over a box, from which a note fell out, clearly left by Xuanhui earlier. Mei Si, greatly missing Liu Taizhen, had Ling Xiao lead him to the Demon Market. This time, he was clearly without the nervousness and unease of his previous visit.

He even felt that a child he saw strongly resembled a young Xuanhui, and couldn't help but worry about him, his gaze constantly following the child. Liu Taizhen watched Mei Si arrive at the Demon Market from a distance, feeling immense joy, a slight smile gracing her lips. On the other side, the Emperor, with great interest, taught the Empress and their daughter how to cut paper-cuts for windows.

His skill was also first-rate; the paper-cuts he created were lifelike, earning continuous praise from the Empress and their daughter. Wu Zhen returned to the Mei Estate; although Mei Zhuyu was still unconscious, she felt a sliver of solace, as Mei Zhuyu could at least quietly remain by her side. Just then, a household servant came to call Wu Zhen for dinner.

At that very moment, the Zhuyu Immortal Herb in the courtyard suddenly changed color, and then Mei Zhuyu slowly opened his eyes, which glowed with a mysterious golden-yellow light. In a blink of an eye, Mei Zhuyu went out to buy things, looking at the multitude of foods before him and unsure how to choose, so he simply bought them all, also buying the autumn pears Wu Zhen loved. Ever since Wu Zhen became pregnant, her appetite had been excellent.

As he returned home with many bags, he happened to encounter Wu Zhen taking out a pair of mystical items. As a result, the two swapped bodies. Wu Zhen, having endured for seven months, could finally seize the opportunity to go to the Ruyi Building for a big drink. Mei Zhuyu, meanwhile, felt immense happiness as he touched the fetus in his belly. (The End)