Renascence resumo, enredo, sinopse

Sinopse de Renascence

The Empress of Great Chu, Yao Moxin was murdered by traitors in the imperial court, while after a thunderstorm and lightning, her soul went inside her sister Yao Mowan.

At the moment, Yao Mowan is being chased by her enemies and loses her memory after falling off a cliff.

Yao Mowan and Prince Su of Great Chu, Ye Junqing, gradually fall in love through a series of incidents. But just when they both want to express their affection for each other, Yao Mowan learns that she is Yao Moxin and that she has been assassinated by her enemies.

In order to take revenge, Yao Moxin enters the palace again as her sister Yao Mowan.

When she first enters the palace, Yao Mowan finds her sister Mo Xin's enemy among several concubines and realizes the nature of the emperor, Ye Hongyi. She is determined to reclaim the kingdom for YeJunqing.

In order to take revenge, Yao Mowan befriends Chu Mobei, Han Jinyi, and others.

Yao Mowan finally fulfills her dream and returns the kingdom to her beloved, Ye Junqing.

Resumos de Renascence

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The Vast Continent was divided among three powers: the Kingdom of Chu, the mightiest, the Kingdom of Shu to the west, and Southland to the south. While outwardly appearing peaceful, ambition simmered beneath the surface, with each kingdom secretly vying for total dominance. On the border, Chu's God of War, Ye Junqing, fought bravely against Shu.

During a fierce battle, he was struck by an arrow from Shu's Supreme Commander, Xia Yong, and fell to the ground, calling out the name of Empress Yao Moxin. Ye Junqing quickly recovered, rising to his feet, pulling out the arrow, and killing his attackers. He then ordered his troops to feign a retreat, luring Xia Yong's army into a pre-arranged canyon.

A volley of arrows wiped out Xia Yong's forces, and Ye Junqing commanded his loyal attendant, Ben Lei, to personally finish off Xia Yong. Outside the Chu Imperial Palace, Young Lady Mo Wan, the third daughter of the Yao family who rarely ventured out, arrived to request an audience with her elder sister, Empress Yao Moxin.

Meanwhile, within the palace, Empress Yao Moxin spoke tenderly to her unborn child, Zhong'er, about Young Lady Mo Wan, expressing her deep affection for her younger sister. Her maid noted that the Empress doted on Young Lady Mo Wan so much that some mistook her for being simple-minded. Later, Emperor Ye Hongyi, concerned that completely eradicating Shu would provoke Southland and disrupt the delicate balance of power, ordered Prince Su, Ye Junqing, to return to the capital.

The official reason was for him to recuperate, but the Emperor’s true intention was to curtail his military authority. Upon receiving the imperial decree, Ye Junqing began preparing for his journey. Ben Lei voiced his discontent, finding the Emperor's command unreasonable, especially given Ye Junqing's unhealed wounds. He speculated that Empress Yao Moxin might be the one to cause Ye Junqing trouble, but Ye Junqing did not directly respond.

He departed with a small contingent of guards, anticipating potential attacks from lingering Shu forces. Inside the palace, Emperor Ye Hongyi discussed Empress Yao Moxin's current confinement with Prime Minister Yao Zhenting. The Prime Minister understood the Emperor's decision, explaining that with two of the Yao family's daughters as Empress and a Consort, the family was under intense scrutiny, and the Emperor's actions were a way to alleviate pressure on them.

Ye Hongyi reaffirmed his commitment, promising Yao Moxin and the Yao family unparalleled glory if she stood by him as he ruled the empire. Chief Eunuch An Bing Shan delivered prenatal medicine to Empress Yao Moxin on the Emperor's behalf, conveying Ye Hongyi's concern and a poetic message of their deep connection. Yao Moxin, a skilled physician herself, found the medicine unusually bitter, initially attributing it to a cold. Shortly after drinking it, she began bleeding, indicating a miscarriage.

An Bing Shan rushed to inform the Emperor, while Yao Moxin, realizing someone was poisoning her child, quickly gave instructions to her maid. At this critical moment, Young Lady Mo Wan entered the chamber, distraught at the sight of her sister bleeding. As she tried to help, a blue light emanated from Empress Yao Moxin's hand, forming a pearl. When Young Lady Mo Wan touched it, the pearl transferred into her hand, causing both sisters to fall unconscious.

Empress Yao Moxin awoke to find herself in her sister's body, having swapped souls with Young Lady Mo Wan. Determined to uncover the truth behind the poisoning, she decided that her sister, now occupying the Empress's body and in a deep slumber, would be safest in the palace. She quickly fled the palace, but was ambushed and abducted by masked assailants on her way out.

Meanwhile, Jian Chen, a remnant general from Shu, rallied a group of soldiers, intending to assassinate Ye Junqing while he was still recovering from his injuries. On his journey back to the capital, Ye Junqing's group was pursued by Shu soldiers. Ben Lei volunteered to stay behind and distract the pursuers, allowing Ye Junqing to proceed alone.

In the palace, Emperor Ye Hongyi received grim news from the imperial physicians: Empress Yao Moxin had lost her child and was gravely ill, with little time left. The Emperor, Consort Li (Yao Su Luan), Consort Chen (Huan Cai'er), and Consort Shu (Wang Qin Ruo) all showed signs of deep distress. Ye Hongyi vehemently refused to accept her impending death, asserting his imperial will. As he traveled, Ye Junqing heard Young Lady Mo Wan's (Yao Moxin's soul) cries for help.

Despite her unfamiliar face, she knew his name, compelling him to intervene. In the ensuing struggle, both fell off a cliff. At the bottom, Young Lady Mo Wan (Yao Moxin's soul), suffering a severe head injury, awoke with amnesia and mistakenly accused Ye Junqing of assaulting her. Ye Junqing, in turn, demanded to know why she knew his name. To uncover her lost identity, she clung to him, refusing to leave his side. Suddenly, dozens of assassins attacked them.

Ye Junqing, still injured, fought bravely but was wounded. With quick thinking, Young Lady Mo Wan (Yao Moxin's soul) managed to create a diversion, allowing Ye Junqing to eliminate their attackers. However, Ye Junqing eventually succumbed to his injuries and collapsed, unconscious. Back in the palace, Emperor Ye Hongyi summoned Thousand Face to secretly investigate Empress Yao Moxin's poisoning. He believed that the maids and eunuchs involved were mere pawns and hinted at the possible involvement of the three consorts.

He ordered a complete news blackout to facilitate a covert investigation. Young Lady Mo Wan (Yao Moxin's soul) carried the unconscious Ye Junqing away from the cliff. With assassins still in pursuit, a kind elderly cart driver happened upon them and rescued them, taking them to his home.

Young Lady Mo Wan (Yao Moxin's soul) fabricated a story, claiming they were a married couple being hunted by a local bandit who wanted her as a concubine, and begged the elder to let them stay and recover. While gathering herbs to treat Ye Junqing's wounds, Young Lady Mo Wan (Yao Moxin's soul) experienced fragmented memories of medicinal herbs, medical books, and even flashes involving Ye Junqing.

Emperor Ye Hongyi observed sky lanterns lit by the common people, praying for the Empress and her unborn child, and remarked on her deep popularity. Shortly after, a general reported the arrest and interrogation of all relevant personnel. Ye Hongyi then questioned An Bing Shan directly about any irregularities during the delivery of Yao Moxin's medicine. An Bing Shan recounted his journey, emphasizing that nothing unusual occurred, and thanked the Emperor for his trust.

Young Lady Mo Wan (Yao Moxin's soul) offered Ye Junqing's valuable jade pendant to a doctor as payment for acupuncture treatment. To her surprise, the doctor, after observing her actions, informed her that she herself possessed exceptional medical skills. Yet, she remained bewildered by her newly discovered identity as a healer.

Under Yao Mowan's attentive care, Ye Junqing finally regained consciousness. Upon learning that his treasured jade pendant had been given to the doctor as payment, Ye Junqing grew furious, asserting that the pendant was more important to him than his own life. Disregarding his injuries, he insisted on retrieving it. Yao Mowan, seeing his stubbornness, reluctantly set out alone to get it back, but she slipped and fell on the wet mountain path.

Later, the old man who was hosting them offered Ye Junqing some porridge, praising Yao Mowan's incredible resourcefulness and devotion. He told Ye Junqing that his wife had tirelessly cared for him while they were on the run and recovering from injuries, urging him to cherish her. Just then, Yao Mowan returned, covered in mud. She admitted she couldn't find the pendant because it was too dark. Ye Junqing's heart softened, and he thanked her for her efforts.

Yao Mowan then went to clean herself. Meanwhile, in the palace, Consort Li had brought a charlatan of a sorcerer to Yao Moxin's bedchamber to perform a soul-summoning ritual. Emperor Ye Hongyi arrived and, angered by the sight, ordered the sorcerer to be dragged out and beheaded. He then admonished Consort Li not to believe in such witchcraft.

Consort Li explained that she was worried about both the Emperor and Yao Moxin since the Empress fell ill, wishing to find a way to help her recover, even if it meant sacrificing her own life. Ye Hongyi appreciated her sentiment and vowed to cure the Empress at any cost. That night, Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan resumed their bickering about who should sleep on the bed.

Ye Junqing suggested Yao Mowan take the bed while he slept on the floor. Yao Mowan, however, refused, fearing his injuries would worsen and she would become a widow. Ye Junqing, irritated, told her to stop calling him "husband" when no one else was around and declared he wouldn't sleep on the bed since she had sat on it. Their argument was interrupted when the old woman brought them an extra blanket due to the cold mountain air.

To maintain their cover, Yao Mowan insisted they share the bed, reminding Ye Junqing of his frail health and her inability to pay for his treatment if he fell ill again. Ye Junqing reluctantly conceded, but not before demarcating an imaginary line on the bed, insisting on boundaries between a man and a woman. Yao Mowan scoffed, saying no one wanted to touch him.

Ye Hongyi sat by the unconscious Yao Moxin, holding a jade pendant and reminiscing about their simple wedding. He recalled how he had only been able to offer her a humble ceremony without lavish decorations, a formal procession, or guests, yet Yao Moxin had declared that she didn't care about such things. She had vowed to stand by him, "till death do us part," whether he became king or a nobody.

Ye Hongyi had promised that if he ascended the throne, he would make her Empress, and they would "soar high in the sky like phoenixes." Yao Moxin had then playfully asked what would happen if he ever grew weary or tired of her. Ye Hongyi had sworn by the heavens that if such a day came, the heavens should punish him by taking her away from him forever, as that would be his harshest punishment.

Yao Moxin, believing him, had playfully remarked that he would regret losing a great girl like her. The next morning, Ye Junqing woke to find Yao Mowan clinging to him tightly. He inwardly called her stupid but decided to remain still, a silent test of wills. Yao Mowan, who was also awake, deliberately maintained her embrace, determined to see who would yield first. Their silent standoff was broken when the old woman knocked on the door, calling them for breakfast.

At a local eatery, a group of remnants from the Kingdom of Shu spotted the doctor in possession of Ye Junqing's jade pendant. They questioned him aggressively about its origin, and the doctor, fearful, revealed that a woman had given it to him. Later, as Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan walked by the river, Yao Mowan admired some flowers, remarking that women love flowers not for the flowers themselves, but for the person who gives them.

She then mused about living freely in the wilderness, unburdened by worldly affairs. Ye Junqing, seeing a flicker of Yao Moxin in her, decided to give her a name at her request: Nian Xin, which means "remembering Mo Xin." Yao Mowan adored the name. When Ye Junqing then asked why she had saved his life, Yao Mowan became flustered. She explained that he was "her guy" and currently "the only person I know and have in this world."

She concluded by reiterating, "You're my guy," before shyly running off. Upon returning to the old couple's home, they discovered the kind elderly couple had been brutally murdered. Realizing the danger, Ye Junqing quickly led Yao Mowan away. As they tried to escape, a group of assassins from the Kingdom of Shu attacked them. The assassins, identifying Ye Junqing as "Chu's God of War," offered a reward of 100 gold for his death.

Despite his injuries, Ye Junqing fought bravely but was outnumbered. Fortunately, Ben Lei arrived with his men, rescuing them. Ye Junqing intentionally let the leader of the assassins escape, telling him to relay to his master that if he wanted to kill him, he should do it on the battlefield, not with such dirty tricks. The assassin leader acknowledged Ye Junqing's reputation and left. Ben Lei, noticing Yao Mowan, asked about her identity.

Ye Junqing initially tried to disavow any knowledge of her, but Yao Mowan quickly asserted that she was his savior and would remain with them. Resigned, Ye Junqing instructed Ben Lei to take her back to his residence and ensure the old couple received a proper burial.

Back in the imperial court, a minister proposed that Emperor Ye Hongyi revoke Prince Su's military command over the Border Guards, arguing it would strengthen the monarchy now that Ye Hongyi had ascended the throne. However, General Huan Heng countered, highlighting Prince Su's recent heroic victories against the Kingdom of Shu and warning that such a move would demoralize the troops and cause unrest, especially since Prince Su had not yet returned.

Just as the argument intensified, Ye Junqing entered the court. He humbly apologized for his delayed return and the rumors it caused, accepting full responsibility. Ye Hongyi welcomed him warmly, praising his great accomplishments and insisting on rewarding him. Despite Ye Junqing's humble attempts to decline, Ye Hongyi feared being seen as ungrateful and appointed him General Shen Wei, urging him to rest. Ye Junqing accepted, vowing his unwavering loyalty.

Afterward, in a private conversation, Ye Hongyi informed Ye Junqing that his delay was due to Shu envoys attempting an assassination, promising that Shu would pay a heavy price. He then assigned Ye Junqing the critical task of overseeing the royal security for the upcoming autumn hunting ceremony, emphasizing its importance to the nation's fortune. Finally, Ye Hongyi revealed that Empress Yao Moxin had suddenly fallen into a coma, the cause unknown.

As Ye Junqing walked through the palace, he was overcome by a memory of Yao Moxin bidding him farewell before he left for war. She had prepared his favorite peach blossom wine, promising a celebratory drink upon his victorious return. Ye Junqing had expressed doubt about their ability to meet freely due to their changed statuses, but Yao Moxin, ever confident, had dismissed his worries, affirming their pure friendship and her own indomitable spirit.

Ye Junqing had then agreed, eagerly anticipating his return. At the Yao Residence, Madam Dou Xiang Lan inquired about Yao Moxin's condition to her husband, Yao Zhen Ting. She lamented that her prayers for the Empress were futile and highlighted Yao Mowan's sudden disappearance. She then subtly suggested that for the sake of the Yao family, they should guide their other daughter, Su Luan, in securing the Empress's position.

Yao Zhen Ting, however, questioned whether her intentions were truly for the Yao family or for her own Dou family. Meanwhile, the Second Madam, Mo Li, tearfully expressed her distress to Yao Zhen Ting over the misfortunes of her two daughters—one ill, one missing—and implored him to promise he would find Yao Mowan. Yao Zhen Ting, remorseful for failing to protect them, promised he would.

Back at Prince Su's residence, Ye Junqing reviewed security plans for the Xilan Paddock autumn hunt with his generals, detailing troop deployments for various critical areas. He kept the purpose of the remaining three thousand men undisclosed. Later, Ben Lei reported on Yao Mowan's comfortable stay at the residence and playfully asked if Ye Junqing was falling in love, given his attentiveness.

Ye Junqing dismissed it as merely repaying a debt, though he admitted she reminded him of someone, quickly brushing it off as overthinking. Enjoying her newfound leisure, Yao Mowan wandered into a room and found a poem on the wall: "Feeling desolate thinking of her. Like rain flooding the depths of the heart. Pining for a love to be fulfilled. Wishing her health and happiness everlasting."

Noticing the name "Nian Xin" in the poem, she secretly delighted, believing Ye Junqing had written it about her. Accidentally, she triggered a secret door, revealing a hidden chamber with a portrait of a woman. A sudden, piercing headache overwhelmed her, and in her confusion, she accidentally tore the painting in half. Just then, Ye Junqing arrived, witnessing the damaged portrait.

He struggled to suppress his rage, telling her that if she hadn't saved his life, she would have been dead by now. He then ordered her to leave the residence. Standing outside the prince's gate, Yao Mowan watched a servant delivering wine to the residence, and an idea sparked in her mind.

Yao Mowan persistently sought entry to Prince Su's Residence, but the guards remained unyielding. Observing a delivery of wine to the residence, she devised a plan to impersonate a courtesan to gain access. However, the guards quickly saw through her disguise, noting that Prince Su, Ye Junqing, never entertained women or took concubines. This led Yao Mowan to speculate that Ye Junqing might be a homosexual.

Undeterred, she attempted to scale the residence wall, only to be discovered by guards and forcibly removed once more. Resorting to a more public tactic, she began loudly lamenting in the street, claiming Ye Junqing had wronged her and appealing to passersby for justice. This commotion successfully drew Ye Junqing out, who then carried her into the residence, instructing her to adhere to his rules: no unauthorized movement, no reckless speech, and to mind her manners.

Meanwhile, Emperor Ye Hongyi learned that an intruder had infiltrated Empress Yao Moxin's chambers, cutting through a Tianshan silk net—a feat only possible with a Dark Iron Sword, which Ye Hongyi knew Ye Junqing possessed. He suspected Ye Junqing, believing his brother still harbored feelings for Yao Moxin. Back at Prince Su's Residence, Yao Mowan unexpectedly entered Ye Junqing's room, finding him applying medicine to a chest wound he had sustained during his infiltration of the palace.

She immediately offered to help. Shortly after, Ben Lei arrived to report that the autumn hunting escort team was fully assembled and scheduled to depart at 7 a. m. Ye Junqing sternly reminded Yao Mowan of his rules, warning her that any transgression would result in her expulsion from the residence. Ben Lei remarked on Ye Junqing's ability to manage the "little devil" Yao Mowan. During the autumn hunting ceremony, Ye Hongyi complimented Ye Junqing's exceptional archery skills.

The two reminisced about their first encounter with Yao Moxin at the same hunting ground, recalling the late Emperor's decree to select wives for his sons. Both brothers had been smitten with Yao Moxin, each offering her their bows. However, Ye Junqing's reluctance to harm a mother deer allowed Ye Hongyi to claim the prize.

Yao Moxin, in turn, divided her Couple Jade, giving one half to each brother, expressing her wish for them to support each other for the prosperity and peace of Chu. Ye Hongyi reflected on this, believing his marriage to Yao Moxin was ultimately made possible by Ye Junqing's "completion." The hunting then commenced.

Suddenly, an assassin attacked, and Ye Junqing valiantly intervened to block an arrow aimed at the Emperor, suffering an arm injury while Ye Hongyi sustained a superficial wound. General Li immediately accused Ye Junqing of collusion with the assassin. Ye Junqing retorted that it would be illogical to stage an attack in a hunting ground under his own security command and demanded a thorough investigation, leaving General Li speechless.

As this debate unfolded, soldiers presented Yao Mowan, disguised in military uniform, to the Emperor, suspecting her involvement. Ye Hongyi interrogated Yao Mowan, who admitted she had come for Ye Junqing—not to conspire, but to expose his heartless actions. She dramatically recounted risking her life to save him, only for him to repeatedly attempt to eject her from his residence. She appealed to Ye Hongyi for justice.

General Li attempted to challenge her claims, but Yao Mowan's sharp tongue deftly countered his arguments. Recognizing her as Ye Junqing's savior, and to uphold the royal family's reputation for benevolence, Ye Hongyi instructed Ye Junqing to care for Yao Mowan properly. He then decided to keep Yao Mowan in the palace to treat his injury, privately hoping to learn more about her.

As Ye Junqing left, he reflected on Yao Mowan's composure and her "killing two birds with one stone" strategy, noting her intelligence was second only to Empress Yao Moxin's. He then went to the hunting ground to investigate the assassin's movements, summoning the squad leaders. They reported a strange incident the night before: a soldier had died suddenly without any apparent cause or injury. Ye Junqing immediately ordered Ben Lei to examine the body.

Meanwhile, Ye Hongyi privately questioned Yao Mowan about how she managed to evade Shu's elite warriors while rescuing Ye Junqing. Yao Mowan confidently explained her use of various strategies. Ye Hongyi, observing her fearlessness, was reminded of Empress Yao Moxin and began to suspect that Ye Junqing had intentionally arranged for Yao Mowan to approach him.

As a result, Ye Hongyi pardoned Yao Mowan for her unauthorized entry but stripped Ye Junqing of his commander seal, citing negligence, and ordered him to return home to recuperate. Back at Prince Su's Residence, Yao Mowan prepared tea for Ye Junqing, who criticized her lack of care. Ben Lei reported his findings on the deceased soldier: a black throat but normal stomach, indicating gaseous poison. The soldier's background was suspiciously clean.

Ye Junqing, examining the assassin's blunt arrowheads, realized the attack was not meant to be lethal. Yao Mowan, recalling Ye Hongyi's shallow wound and Ye Junqing's deliberate act of taking the arrow, surmised that the entire assassination was a ploy by Ye Hongyi to seize military power, and Ye Junqing had feigned injury to avoid suspicion. Ye Junqing admonished her for speculating about state affairs.

Ben Lei voiced concerns about Ye Junqing's passive stance, but Ye Junqing explained that returning to the border army would be treason and that he could not leave with Yao Moxin in a coma. Ben Lei also reported that all palace staff connected to Empress Yao Moxin had vanished. Ye Junqing instructed him to investigate the three most favored concubines for clues.

Meanwhile, Concubine Li, worried about an upcoming homecoming ceremony, expressed dismay that an "unknown girl" could so easily gain the Emperor's favor. Later, Yao Mowan was practicing calligraphy and mistakenly wrote Ye Junqing's name. He corrected her, then she asked him to teach her how to write "Nian Xin." After he wrote the names, a pre-written "contract" magically appeared on the paper, outlining her rights within the residence.

Ye Junqing dismissed it as legally invalid, but Yao Mowan countered that his handwritten name validated it. Seeing sky lanterns outside, Yao Mowan excitedly asked to visit the East Market's Lantern Festival. Ye Junqing initially refused but eventually relented. At the lively festival, Ye Junqing explained the significance of the "Lord Fang Xiang" masks, a deity believed to ward off evil.

The explanation triggered a flashback for Ye Junqing to his youth, when a vendor had remarked on how he and Ye Hongyi looked like "twins." Amused by the memory, Yao Mowan purchased two masks, and they continued their outing, delighting in solving riddles.

Yao Mowan wandered through the lantern festival with Ye Junqing, expressing great interest in the novelties around her. As they admired the riddles, Ye Junqing quickly solved one, but deferred to others for another, stating he would let someone else have a try. Soon, Yao Mowan found herself separated from Ye Junqing and drawn to a scene where two children were loudly begging, claiming their father had died of fever. Many onlookers were moved to donate money.

Yao Mowan, however, quickly discerned it was a scam and intervened, telling the crowd not to be so gullible and that they would thank her for saving their money. She questioned the young girl, pointing out discrepancies in her story: the girl claimed to be from Jingzhou, but wore Yunxia clothing common in the capital, not Jingzhou's famous hemp fabric.

Yao Mowan also noted that the supposed father's corpse did not exhibit the typical symptoms of fever, and its condition suggested he had been dead for some time. Furthermore, she detected a faint scent of white vinegar on the girl’s sleeves, indicating she was using it to induce tears. The little girl, realizing her deception was exposed, quickly changed her story, claiming she and her brother had been abducted and forced to beg by thugs.

When a group of villains emerged, furious that their scheme was uncovered and their income was ruined, they pursued Yao Mowan. Just as she was in danger, Ye Junqing arrived, fighting off the thugs. They were eventually cornered on a rooftop, and Ye Junqing, holding Yao Mowan, leapt off, soaring through the air. The moment of shared peril and closeness reminded Ye Junqing of Yao Moxin, prompting a faint smile.

He eventually regained his composure when the crowd below cheered, realizing he had been holding Yao Mowan for too long. He quickly set her down. Later, as they walked away, Yao Mowan asked Ye Junqing if he was angry at her for being nosy. Ye Junqing responded, observing that she and Yao Moxin were very much alike. Yao Mowan, seemingly displeased by the comparison, covered her ears, declaring she did not want to hear it.

Back at the residence, Yao Mowan pressed Ye Junqing to spend more time with her, suggesting more outings and visits to the children at Ciyou Children's Home. Ye Junqing, seemingly tired, simply stated he was fatigued and closed his door, leaving Yao Mowan outside. She muttered that he was moody and a "psycho," only for Ye Junqing to call out from within, "I heard it."

The next morning, Yao Mowan prepared breakfast for him, but Ben Lei informed her that His Highness had already left. Frustrated, Yao Mowan quickly went to follow him. She soon lost track of him and, drawing a rather ugly portrait, began asking people on the street if they had seen the man in her drawing.

A young boy eventually pointed her in a direction, but this turned out to be a ruse orchestrated by Ye Junqing, who gave the child a reward for misdirecting her. Yao Mowan, having placed her hand on a hot iron wok while hiding during her pursuit, was jokingly asked by a passerby where she had learned her "iron sand palm." Meanwhile, a group of bandits lay in wait in the wilderness, planning to ambush a carriage openly transporting gold.

The second chief of the bandits, experienced in robbery, suspected a trap, but their leader dismissed his concerns, asserting that it was their territory. The group attacked, only to be swiftly defeated by the lone traveler, Han Jinyi, the Lord of Wanhuang City, who easily disarmed them and stripped them of their clothes. Han Jinyi then demanded to be taken to their leader.

He confronted the bandit chief, accusing his men of breaking the code of thieves and deserving to pay with their lives. The terrified bandits begged for mercy. Han Jinyi granted them a chance to live, explaining that he needed their assistance in the capital to steal the Nine Dragons Cup, one of the three great treasures.

Though the bandit leader expressed apprehension about the palace's tight security, Han Jinyi revealed his plan: they were to drive wagons laden with explosives to the four palace gates—north, south, east, and west—to create a diversion and allow him to infiltrate the palace unhindered. The bandits reluctantly agreed. At the imperial palace, Ye Hongyi was still having Ye Junqing monitored.

A guard reported that Ye Junqing had been unusually relaxed and had not met with anyone since being stripped of his military authority. Ye Hongyi found this highly suspicious and uncharacteristic, ordering the surveillance to extend to Ye Junqing's subordinate, Ben Lei, as well. Ye Hongyi also inquired about the investigation into Empress Yao Moxin's poisoning.

Qianmian reported that three consorts had visited the Empress before she fell ill, and, more disturbingly, the medicine dregs from the five days prior to her illness had mysteriously disappeared from the palace clinic, despite regulations requiring their preservation. Ye Hongyi ordered a thorough search of all imperial concubines' chambers. Later, Yao Su Luan, the Imperial Concubine Li, visited Ye Hongyi to discuss her upcoming homecoming visit to her family.

Ye Hongyi seized the opportunity to question her about Yao Moxin's condition before her illness. Yao Su Luan confirmed she had visited, stating that Yao Moxin, then pregnant with Zhong'er, felt uneasy, so she had given her a calming incense pouch. After Yao Su Luan departed, Ye Hongyi instructed Qianmian to investigate the calming incense. Moments later, a loud explosion rocked the palace. The explosion was part of Han Jinyi's plan.

He, disguised and masked, successfully breached the palace and located the Nine Dragons Cup in the Pavilion of Treasures. Though imperial guards quickly converged, Han Jinyi, agile and swift, escaped with the Cup, leaving a message for the Emperor that he was merely "borrowing" the artifact.

Meanwhile, Ye Junqing, having avoided his own surveillance, received information that Dou Shiming, who had been appointed Governor of a border province, had secretly entered the capital in civilian clothes without official authorization a few months before Empress Yao Moxin's sudden illness. This raised Ye Junqing's suspicions. As guards pursued Han Jinyi, Ye Junqing staged a diversion, pretending to be drunk in a tavern.

Han Jinyi, seeing an opportunity, seized Ye Junqing as a hostage, forcing the guards to back down, allowing his escape. He then instructed his subordinate to carefully transport the Nine Dragons Cup back to his housekeeper in Mangyuan. Later, Yao Mowan finally caught up to Ye Junqing, confronting him about his evasiveness. She challenged his dismissiveness, asserting that his own affection for Yao Moxin was equally one-sided.

Her words struck a nerve with Ye Junqing, who abruptly walked away in a huff. At the Yao Residence, Mo Li tearfully pleaded with Prime Minister Yao to continue searching for Yao Mowan. Dou Xiang Lan, the legitimate madam, feigned concern but used the upcoming imperial homecoming visit of Ye Hongyi and Yao Su Luan as an excuse to delay the search, deeming it a more urgent matter. She also implicitly accused Mo Li of playing the victim.

Prime Minister Yao, while expressing sympathy for Mo Li, agreed that the imperial visit was their current priority but promised to resume the search for Yao Mowan afterward. Gossiping servants later noted that Dou Xiang Lan's reluctance was likely due to Mo Li's diminished standing after Empress Yao Moxin's illness, leaving her without a powerful patron. Soon after, Ye Junqing escorted Yao Mowan back to the Yao Residence.

The maids immediately recognized her as the Third Young Lady, causing Mo Li to embrace her with joy. However, Yao Mowan, suffering from amnesia, did not recognize her mother or Prime Minister Yao. Dou Xiang Lan approached, outwardly showing concern and claiming to have worried endlessly about Yao Mowan's disappearance. Concerned by Yao Mowan's memory loss, Ye Junqing requested a private conversation with Prime Minister Yao, while Dou Xiang Lan cast a strange glance in their direction.

Inside her former room, Mo Li tried to help Yao Mowan recall her past, introducing her to her two sisters: Yao Su Luan, the eldest daughter and Imperial Concubine Li, and Yao Moxin, her biological elder sister and the Empress. Yao Mowan reacted with surprise upon hearing Yao Moxin’s name, asking if she was truly her sister.

A maid brought in osmanthus cake, Yao Mowan's supposed favorite, but Yao Mowan found it unpalatable, expressing disbelief that she ever enjoyed something so "bad." She then questioned Mo Li about her past relationship with Ye Hongyi and Ye Junqing, only to be told she had never met them. Confused, Yao Mowan wondered about the memories in her head.

She then asked her mother about Dou Xiang Lan, sensing something odd about her and inquiring if she had always been kind. Mo Li quickly dismissed her suspicions, but Yao Mowan noticed numerous faint marks on her mother's hand. Upon closer inspection, she recognized them as evidence of needle torture, immediately suspecting Dou Xiang Lan. Yao Mowan declared her intent to seek justice, but Mo Li, desperate, held her back, threatening to disown her if she continued to pursue the matter.

Yao Zhenting expressed his surprise at Yao Mowan's unexpected encounter with Ye Junqing, deeming it a great fortune for the Yao family. He pondered who could have harmed his daughter, as she rarely ventured outside and had no known enemies. He noted that Yao Mowan's disappearance occurred on the same day Yao Moxin fell gravely ill, suggesting a potential connection between the two incidents.

Ye Junqing then inquired if Yao Zhenting knew about Dou Xiang Lan's elder brother, Dou Shiming, secretly entering the capital. Yao Zhenting was genuinely surprised, pointing out that as a governor of a district, Dou Shiming could not leave his post without imperial orders, leading him to wonder if the Emperor had secretly summoned him.

He recalled that his wife, Dou Xiang Lan, had visited her maiden home at the beginning of the sixth month and suspected it might be related to Dou Shiming's visit, questioning why she would keep it a secret from him. Ye Junqing dismissed it as mere hearsay.

Yao Zhenting then reflected on a past incident where the late emperor secretly summoned Prince Guo to eliminate Grand General Wang Ping, acknowledging that his age often led him to reminisce about old events. Yao Mowan, having learned about her family history from Mo Li, understood her place in the complicated Yao Residence. Her father, Yao Zhenting, was the current Prime Minister, and her mother, Mo Li, was a second concubine.

The primary wife was Dou Xiang Lan, daughter of a prominent Chu noble family, whose daughter Yao Su Luan was the legitimate first daughter and the current Consort Li. Yao Moxin, whom Yao Mowan once considered a rival, was her own full sister. At Jing De Palace, the concubines were preparing for Consort Li's homecoming. One concubine presented Consort Li with an "Auspicious Cloud Cloak," which Consort Li praised.

However, Consort Shu sent a bird, remarking that a "mortal bird is merely a mortal" and would never become a phoenix even if it flew high, implying Consort Li's ambition to replace the Empress by adopting imperial protocols for her homecoming. Consort Li denied any such aspirations and warned Consort Shu against slander and sowing discord, threatening her with the Empress's wrath upon her recovery.

Unfazed, Consort Shu sarcastically retorted that Consort Li often joked and challenged her to wait and see who would ultimately face consequences. Back at the Yao Residence, Yao Mowan informed Ye Junqing that her mother had told her about her sister's illness and her own disappearance coinciding on the same day, convinced it was no mere coincidence and proposing they investigate together.

Ye Junqing promptly refused, stating he could handle the investigation alone and told her to leave his residence now that she had found her identity. Yao Mowan persisted, asking if he was so eager for her to leave and who would care for him, reminding him of their prior agreement. Ye Junqing dismissed the agreement as invalid and said he would be relieved by her departure.

Frustrated, Yao Mowan questioned his coldness, asking why he repeatedly saved her if he didn't care. Ye Junqing merely called her unreasonable before leaving. Meanwhile, Thousand Face reported to Ye Hongyi that the "Calm Spirit Sachet" had been examined and found to be harmless. Ye Hongyi then inquired about "Han Jin," the palace intruder. Thousand Face explained that Han Jin was rumored to be the "king of thieves," elusive and of unknown identity.

He also reported that during the pursuit, Han Jin had escaped by holding Prince Su, Ye Junqing, captive. Ye Hongyi grew suspicious, deeming it impossible for Chu's God of War to be easily captured, and concluded that Ye Junqing and Han Jin were colluding. He ordered his guards not to alert Han Jin if he trespassed again, wanting to observe their true intentions.

Ye Junqing then instructed Ben Lei that the palace guards were currently lax, presenting a good opportunity for investigation. He planned to remain at the Yao Residence to avoid suspicion while Ben Lei went to gather intelligence from the palace. The next morning, Yao Mowan confronted Ye Junqing, questioning why he was at her residence so early if he claimed not to care for her, playfully demanding a chicken drumstick as a reward.

Ye Junqing countered that he was simply collecting interest for her prolonged stay at his residence. Yao Mowan, observing the bustling preparations, new uniforms for servants, and the tidying of her legitimate sister's unused chambers, deduced that the Emperor and Consort Li were coming for their homecoming visit. Ye Junqing advised her to prepare herself, and their conversation was interrupted by the announcement of the Emperor's arrival.

At the Yao Residence, Ye Hongyi, Consort Li, and Ye Junqing were formally greeted. Ye Hongyi questioned Ye Junqing's presence, who claimed he was delayed by personal matters. Consort Li's exaggerated display of deference was dismissed by Ye Hongyi, who understood her longing for her mother. Yao Zhenting expressed his gratitude for the Emperor's compassion towards Consort Li.

Ye Hongyi then subtly pressured Dou Xiang Lan by discussing Dou Shiming's growing power in the northern borders, his popularity, and increasing support from court ministers, which brought great honor to the Dou family. He then asked Ye Junqing for his opinion on the powerful generals and nobles in the border regions who were accumulating personal armies. Ye Junqing humbly replied that as "Chu's God of War," he was just a fighter and had no profound views on state affairs.

At this point, Yao Mowan entered and confidently proposed implementing a military-political separation to strengthen imperial power and prevent regional officials from challenging the throne. Ye Hongyi recognized her as the woman who had treated his wounds and asked why she was at the Yao Residence. Ye Junqing clarified that she was the third daughter of the Yao family, whom he had recently discovered and returned, explaining her memory loss. Yao Zhenting apologized for his daughter's "unwise words."

Ye Hongyi, however, praised Yao Mowan's exceptional courage, remarking that, besides the Empress (Yao Moxin), she was the only other woman who dared to discuss political affairs with him. Dou Xiang Lan's expression tightened with displeasure. Ye Junqing then pulled Yao Mowan aside, scolding her for being too outspoken and discussing state matters.

He warned her that the Yao Residence was far more complex than she imagined, and that a single misstep could lead to grave consequences, emphasizing that it was taboo for women to engage in political discussions. Yao Mowan challenged this traditional view, but Ye Junqing, reiterating that he was offering good advice, walked away. Later that night, Yao Mowan, reflecting on Ye Junqing's words, saw Ye Hongyi alone, admiring the moon.

She approached him, and Ye Hongyi, reminded of Yao Moxin by Yao Mowan's articulate speech, asked if Yao Moxin had taught her these political ideals. Due to her amnesia, Yao Mowan could not confirm. Ye Hongyi then fondly reminisced about Yao Moxin's unparalleled intelligence, strategic prowess, and fearless spirit in showcasing her talents.

He described her as empathetic, brilliant like the stars, a woman who vowed to astound the entire country, admitting that even he found her stubbornness challenging at times. Yao Mowan commented that her sister sounded truly exceptional. Ye Hongyi agreed, stating that Yao Moxin was no ordinary woman, never seeking the trivial pleasures of the harem or the supreme glory of an Empress. He lamented her sudden illness and expressed uncertainty about her survival.

Unbeknownst to them, Dou Xiang Lan and Yao Su Luan witnessed this intimate scene. Misinterpreting Yao Mowan's intentions, Dou Xiang Lan remarked on how Yao Mowan had transformed and become as cunning as her sister, vowing to thwart her ambitions. Meanwhile, at the dispensary, Ye Junqing accompanied the Yao Housekeeper. He noticed Dou Xiang Lan's name on a medicine checklist and inquired about the common cold and cough herbs.

He asked the Housekeeper if he always handled the Yao Residence's prescriptions, who confirmed it, crediting Mo Li's medical skills for the family's good health. Ye Junqing then pressed about Dou Xiang Lan's visit to the dispensary. The Housekeeper recalled that at the beginning of the sixth month, Dou Xiang Lan had personally collected medicine for Consort Li's urgent illness, insisting on delivering it to the palace herself, looking very anxious.

This incident, Ye Junqing noted, occurred just before Empress Yao Moxin fell ill. Later, Dou Xiang Lan met with Mo Li and Yao Mowan, subtly praising Yao Mowan's looks despite her "silly" demeanor, then suggested marrying her off quickly. Yao Mowan, recognizing Dou Xiang Lan's true motives, confronted her, questioning the propriety of arranging a marriage for someone with amnesia. Mo Li tried to intercede, arguing that it was too hasty to find a suitable match.

Dou Xiang Lan revealed she had arranged for Yao Mowan to marry Zhao Ping, the son of the Southern City Garrison, claiming he was a perfect match. Yao Mowan vehemently refused. Dou Xiang Lan insisted the marriage was decided and announced that the Zhao family would visit that evening, suggesting the Emperor might even bestow a blessing, an "utmost glory." Yao Mowan scorned such "glory."

Enraged by Yao Mowan's defiance, Dou Xiang Lan slapped Mo Li, accusing her of teaching her daughter to disrespect her elders. Yao Mowan fiercely defended her mother. That evening, at a banquet, Zhao Zhao, the Southern City Garrison, and his son Zhao Ping, were presented to Ye Hongyi, Consort Li, and Ye Junqing. Ye Hongyi, curious about the match, asked to see Zhao Ping. Zhao Ping appeared short, ugly, and simple-minded, fidgeting uncontrollably.

Zhao Zhao, unfazed, claimed his son was Yao Mowan's age and their horoscopes were perfectly aligned. Yao Mowan then made her grand entrance, having deliberately disguised herself with black moles and buck teeth, creating a comical spectacle. She then pretended to faint dramatically after eating a pastry, subtly incriminating Zhao Ping. Dou Xiang Lan, however, quickly exposed Yao Mowan's trick by wiping away her disguise, asserting that Yao Mowan would no longer faint so easily.

Yao Zhenting suggested postponing the marriage due to Yao Mowan's health, but Dou Xiang Lan insisted on proceeding. Ye Junqing then intervened, citing Yao Mowan's severe injuries and her obvious reluctance to marry. He urged Ye Hongyi to annul the engagement to prevent a "doomed relationship." Ye Hongyi confirmed Yao Mowan's disinterest, but also noted her "antics" and "quick-witted" nature, which reminded him of the Empress in her youth.

Ultimately, he granted Yao Mowan the right to choose her own husband. Suddenly, a guard delivered urgent news from Thousand Face: an assassin had been apprehended in the Empress's palace, attempting to harm her, and Ye Hongyi was urged to return immediately. Ye Hongyi instantly ordered his carriage, and Ye Junqing offered to escort him, but the Emperor instructed Ye Junqing to remain at the Yao Residence to ensure the safety of its residents, promising to send updates.

At the palace, an imperial physician reported that Empress Yao Moxin, poisoned by "heartbreak grass" and in a coma, had failed to expel the toxin and was unlikely to survive the night. Ye Hongyi was distraught and furious, expressing his profound love for Yao Moxin and refusing to accept her death, vowing to "soar together" with her.

Back at the Yao Residence, Ben Lei informed Ye Junqing about the arrest in the palace, revealing he had narrowly avoided an ambush himself. The arrested individual was Lady Li's attendant, who confessed Lady Li (Li Guiren) had ordered the poisoning. Upon hearing that Yao Moxin might not survive the night, Ye Junqing lost his composure and ordered his horse be readied to rush to the palace, ignoring Ben Lei's pleas that unauthorized entry would ruin his career.

Yao Mowan, witnessing his recklessness, slapped Ye Junqing, urging him to reconsider, warning that his impulsive act would tarnish Yao Moxin's reputation with an inappropriate association, even in death. Meanwhile, at the palace, the arrested maid, under interrogation, confessed that Lady Li was the mastermind behind the poisoning. She explained that Lady Li resented Empress Yao Moxin's iron-fisted rule, which resulted in Lady Li being repeatedly penalized and losing favor.

The maid pleaded for mercy, claiming she was merely following orders. Ye Hongyi was informed that the maid had been Lady Li's trusted confidante for three years. He immediately ordered Lady Li's arrest.

In the imperial prison, a guard presented evidence to Emperor Ye Hongyi, confirming that poison was found in Lady Li's palace. Lady Li, despite her pleas of innocence and claims of being misled by a maid, was confronted by Ye Hongyi, who reminded her of the Empress's kindness towards her, even after past punishments. He accused Lady Li of repeatedly harming the Empress.

Lady Li vehemently denied previous poisoning attempts, asserting she was only involved this one time and was unaware the herbs were poisoned. Her maid, however, confessed under duress, admitting everything. A deeper investigation revealed that Lady Li's family supplied imperial herbs. The seemingly high-quality mulberry mistletoe, intended to secure the Empress's fetus and nourish her liver and kidneys, was found to be soaked in deadly poison nut extract.

The culprit had cleverly targeted the Empress, knowing she was the only one in the harem carrying a child, ensuring the poisoned herbs would reach her. A eunuch from the herbal storehouse testified that Lady Li had specifically requested the finest herbs for the Empress's pregnancy. Lady Li, attempting to deflect blame, then accused Consort Shu of instigating her to ensure good herbs were sent, fearing implication if the quality was poor.

Enraged by her continuous defiance and false accusations, Ye Hongyi ordered the extermination of her entire family. A decree announced Empress Yao Moxin's unfortunate passing, ordering Prince Su, Ye Junqing, and the Yao family to the palace for the funeral. Mo Li was devastated by her daughter's death, lamenting that Moxin left without a word. Ye Hongyi expressed his regret for failing to protect Moxin, leading to the Yao family's profound sorrow.

He reiterated that Lady Li, the confessed murderer, and her entire family had been executed. Yao Mowan, with reckless curiosity, questioned how Lady Li poisoned her sister and if any accomplices were involved. Yao Zhenting quickly intervened, apologizing for his daughter's outspokenness. Mo Li then tearfully requested to see Moxin one last time before the burial.

Ye Hongyi refused, explaining that Moxin's body was disfigured by the poison and that seeing her would only cause more grief; it would be better to remember her in her most beautiful form. Ye Hongyi tasked Ye Junqing with receiving the envoys from various countries who would arrive to mourn the Empress. Yao Mowan volunteered to assist, wanting to honor her sister. However, Ye Junqing remained deeply distraught and distracted, neglecting his duties.

When an official sought his advice on the arrangements for the envoys from Shu and Southland, Ye Junqing dismissed him, offering no guidance. Yao Mowan stepped in, advising the official on Shu's preference for spicy and salty cuisine. She then confronted Ye Junqing, calling him irresponsible and urging him to overcome his grief, reminding him that Moxin would never return.

Ye Junqing, consumed by sorrow, retorted that while the dead are gone, the living could no longer resume their normal lives, and told her to stop being a busybody. Later, Yao Mowan found Ye Junqing drinking heavily at his residence. She stayed to care for him when he became intoxicated. The next morning, Ye Junqing woke to find Yao Mowan asleep beside him.

Misunderstanding the situation, he panicked, believing he had taken advantage of her while drunk and dishonored Moxin's memory. Overcome with guilt, he drew his sword, intending to harm himself to atone. Yao Mowan quickly intervened, stopping him and clarifying that nothing untoward had happened; he had simply caught a cold, and she had been looking after him all night. Despite her efforts, Ye Junqing remained inconsolable.

He tearfully recounted how he had fulfilled Moxin's wishes: acknowledging the Emperor, defending the country, and maintaining brotherly harmony. Yet, she had still left him, rendering all his efforts meaningless. Yao Mowan acknowledged Moxin's irreplaceable position in his heart but urged him to live strongly for her sister. She vowed to stay by his side, even if it meant being Moxin's substitute, insisting that her willingness to do so was her own choice, regardless of whether he needed her.

Later, as Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan prepared to receive the envoys at the city gate, Yao Mowan expressed happiness at his improved demeanor. Ye Junqing, in turn, thanked her for her care. Princess Han Yue of Southland arrived with her niece, Princess Duan Ting Ting. Duan Ting Ting immediately greeted Ye Junqing affectionately as "Brother Jun Qing."

A flashback revealed that during a past military campaign, Ye Junqing's soldiers had captured Duan Ting Ting as a hostage to pressure Southland. However, Ye Junqing, believing it was despicable to use a woman as leverage against her father's proud nature, released her, earning her admiration. Duan Ting Ting, still fond of Ye Junqing, brazenly asked if he was married. Yao Mowan intervened, claiming Ye Junqing was already in love with someone else.

Duan Ting Ting dismissed the warning, then accidentally pushed Yao Mowan, causing her to fall. Princess Han Yue helped Yao Mowan up and, upon noticing a distinctive scent, exclaimed "Mo Xin!" A prior flashback revealed that Princess Han Yue had given Yao Moxin a Southland treasure before she entered the palace. This treasure would allow Han Yue to sense Moxin's presence and breath, and protect her in times of danger, anticipating the perilous nature of the harem.

During their audience with Ye Hongyi, Duan Ting Ting boldly proposed a diplomatic marriage between Southland and Great Chu to further strengthen their ties. Ye Junqing, however, firmly rejected the proposal. Yao Mowan once again intervened, indirectly causing Duan Ting Ting to storm off in a huff. Observing the exchange, Han Jinyi grew jealous, mistakenly believing that Yao Mowan and Ye Junqing had feelings for each other.

Ye Junqing clarified that Yao Mowan had merely helped him out and that they were only friends. Suddenly, soldiers surrounded them, announcing that Ye Hongyi had ordered Ye Junqing's arrest for treason, accusing him of conspiring with Shu to usurp the throne.

At the imperial court, Ye Hongyi presented a document containing seditious words and immediately branded Ye Junqing a traitor. When Ye Junqing questioned the accusation, Ye Hongyi told him to read the document himself, which claimed Ye Junqing intended to conspire with Shu to take the throne. Ye Junqing vehemently denied writing it, stating that while the handwriting resembled his, it was clearly a forgery meant to frame him.

He argued that after years of guarding the frontier and being at odds with Shu, it was impossible for him to conspire with them. However, Ye Hongyi, who claimed to know Ye Junqing's handwriting well from their youth, refused to believe him. Ye Junqing then recalled a meeting with a Shu envoy the previous day. The envoy had shown him a precious pearl meant as a tribute for the Emperor.

After Ye Junqing left the room, the envoy had secretly placed the incriminating document within the gift box. In court, the Shu envoy claimed he had merely wished to establish good relations, but after Ye Junqing departed, the seditious letter was found in the gift box. Ye Junqing realized this was a deliberate setup, leaving him no room for defense.

Ye Hongyi recounted numerous past accusations against Ye Junqing—embezzling military funds to gain influence and colluding with Shu—all of which he had chosen to overlook. But this latest act of alleged conspiracy was unforgivable. Ye Junqing swore he had never betrayed the Emperor and begged for a thorough investigation, stating he did not fear death but refused to be branded a traitor.

Princess Han Yue interjected, pointing out the suspicious nature of Shu exposing Ye Junqing if he were truly an ally. However, the Shu envoy quickly silenced her, accusing her of malicious slander. Overwhelmed, Ye Hongyi ordered Ye Junqing to be stripped of his official garments and thrown into prison to await trial. Upon hearing of Ye Junqing's arrest, Yao Mowan rushed back to the Prince's Residence to inform Ben Lei. Shocked, Ben Lei immediately sought to spread the news.

However, a guard reported that Thousand Face and his royal guards were already on their way to raid the residence. Realizing the danger, Yao Mowan quickly gathered Ye Junqing's calligraphy and paintings, instructing Ben Lei to stall the approaching guards so she could escape through a hidden passage in the backyard's artificial mountain. Ben Lei insisted on staying behind, fearing his absence might further incriminate Ye Junqing.

Thousand Face then ordered his men to force open the residence gates and begin a thorough search. Meanwhile, Ye Hongyi appointed Dou Shiming and Prime Minister Yao to jointly investigate the case. Dou Shiming, having secretly arrived in the capital, met with Prime Minister Yao, acknowledging their familial ties as in-laws. While Prime Minister Yao stressed the importance of thoroughly investigating the case, Dou Shiming attempted to sway him.

He revealed his ambition to seize control of the frontier military, which was now leaderless due to Ye Junqing's imprisonment. He proposed that if he obtained this power, their combined influence in court would be unstoppable, subtly warning Prime Minister Yao not to choose the wrong alliance. Prime Minister Yao, however, expressed a preference for a peaceful retirement. Despite his private suspicion of an ulterior motive in the case, he was clearly intimidated by Dou Shiming.

During Ye Junqing's interrogation, Prime Minister Yao cautiously inquired about any hidden agenda, which Dou Shiming swiftly picked up on, questioning how he could know of such a thing before an investigation. Dou Shiming then confronted Ye Junqing with the letter, pointing to the similar handwriting and the "witnesses and evidence" as proof, demanding a confession.

When Ye Junqing refused to speak, Dou Shiming, overriding Prime Minister Yao's objections that "no punishment can be executed upon high-ranking officials," ordered thirty canings. Dou Shiming callously remarked that Ye Junqing was "almost a dead man," rendering his status irrelevant, leaving Prime Minister Yao powerless as Ye Junqing was subjected to the brutal punishment. The capital was under strict lockdown.

Yao Mowan, carrying Ye Junqing's collected calligraphy and paintings, sought to retrieve the seditious document from the Supreme Court to compare the handwriting and find evidence of foul play. Han Jinyi, having discreetly followed her, intercepted her at a corner and led her to a safe room. He revealed he had deduced her movements after Ye Junqing's arrest. Yao Mowan explained her plan to compare Ye Junqing's authentic handwriting with the conspiracy letter.

Han Jinyi, however, emphasized the Supreme Court's impenetrable security, suggesting only someone with exceptional skills could infiltrate it. He playfully offered his help if she would "beg him," to which Yao Mowan retorted that she would rather risk her life to steal it herself. Han Jinyi then offered his assistance, but only if she agreed to one condition. Back at the Yao Residence, Dou Shiming confronted Yao Mowan, warning her against arrogance now that Ye Junqing's "backer has fallen."

He threatened that if she continued her defiant behavior and brought disgrace to the Yao family, they would disown her. Unfazed, Yao Mowan fearlessly retorted, sarcastically lauding Dou Shiming as a patriotic and upright official who would never engage in power struggles or injustice, subtly humiliating him. Enraged, Dou Shiming fumed, but Prime Minister Yao quickly intervened, reprimanding Yao Mowan for disrespecting her uncle and sending her to her room.

That night, Yao Mowan secretly entered Dou Shiming's room and drugged him into unconsciousness. Just as she was leaving, Dou Xiang Lan unexpectedly walked in. Yao Mowan quickly hid behind a screen, overhearing Dou Xiang Lan discuss advancing Yao Su Luan's position to Empress. Dou Xiang Lan further suggested eliminating Yao Mowan to prevent her from recalling "the account book."

From this, Yao Mowan realized that her own past disappearance and subsequent memory loss were orchestrated by Dou Xiang Lan and the Dou family. Ye Hongyi visited Ye Junqing in prison, observing his injuries. Ye Junqing defiantly stated that he would endure any torture if it meant proving his innocence. Ye Hongyi offered Ye Junqing some coarse wine, recalling how they relied on it to survive a freezing winter campaign as young men.

Ye Hongyi remarked that people and their desires inevitably change, implying this included Ye Junqing. Ye Junqing boldly asked if Ye Hongyi truly believed him or "them." Ye Hongyi admitted he wanted to believe his brother but was swayed by the "witnesses and evidence." Ye Junqing, in turn, declared his readiness to die if it was the Emperor's will, but he would never confess to a false accusation of treason. Ye Hongyi coldly told him that death awaited him.

Later, Ben Lei was also thrown into the same prison. Seeing his loyal subordinate, Ye Junqing expressed deep remorse for having implicated him. Ben Lei, however, pledged his unwavering loyalty, vowing to follow Ye Junqing even in future lives, hoping to be brothers. True to his reputation as the "number one thief," Han Jinyi skillfully infiltrated the Supreme Court from under Thousand Face's nose and successfully stole the seditious document.

He delivered it to Yao Mowan, who immediately compared it with Ye Junqing's collection of calligraphy. She noted a distinct difference, as the handwriting on the document was too neat, confirming it wasn't Ye Junqing's. However, Han Jinyi pointed out that this might not suffice as evidence, given the difference between Ye Junqing's casual cursive script and the formal style of the official document.

Yao Mowan reaffirmed her unwavering love for Ye Junqing, declaring she would face any hardship for him. With Princess Han Yue's assistance, Yao Mowan gained entry into the palace. She sought out Consort Shu, Ye Junqing's cousin, hoping for her help. Consort Shu, secretly enamored with Ye Junqing herself, initially showed annoyance and tried to dismiss Yao Mowan. Yao Mowan then made a heartfelt appeal, urging Consort Shu not to let personal affections prevent her from saving Ye Junqing's life.

Moved by Yao Mowan's sincerity, Consort Shu agreed to help. Yao Mowan then requested access to the prison to see Ye Junqing, a favor that only Consort Shu's father, Prince Dun, could grant. Consort Shu promised to arrange it. Yao Mowan visited Ye Junqing in his cell, her heart aching at the sight of his severe wounds. She tearfully promised to prove his innocence and secure his release.

Ye Junqing, however, tried to dissuade her, expressing faith that Ye Hongyi would ultimately discern right from wrong. He entrusted her with a jade pendant, the sole keepsake from her sister, Yao Moxin, asking her to return it only if he survived. Yao Mowan then left, determined to retrieve Ye Junqing's official pass. Later, at the execution ground, Prime Minister Yao made a final, desperate plea to Ye Hongyi.

He argued that the case was filled with ulterior motives, emphasizing that Ye Junqing's consistent denial of the charges, even under brutal torture, was proof of his innocence. He urged Ye Hongyi to see the truth. Yet, Ye Hongyi remained stoic. As the appointed hour arrived, the executioner raised his blade, while Ye Hongyi showed a flicker of reluctance in his expression.

The executioner raised his blade, and just as the hour arrived for Prince Su's punishment, Yao Mowan rushed onto the platform, shouting for the execution to stop. She had proof, she told Emperor Ye Hongyi, that Prince Su was wrongfully accused. Yao Mowan explained that while the treason document's handwriting appeared similar to Ye Junqing's, his usual powerful strokes result in dense, rounded characters.

In contrast, the document's writing was sharp and faint, a clear indication that it was a forgery. The Shu envoy accused Yao Mowan of breaking into a prohibited judicial area and switching the document. Yao Mowan challenged him to read the document aloud, only to reveal that the text she handed him was a mere drinking game rhyme, not the actual treason document.

She exposed the envoy as a martial artist who was illiterate in the Chu language, proving he had never read the original document himself. At that moment, Jian Chen, an assassin from Shu whom Ye Junqing had once spared, stepped forward with a sworn testimony. He corroborated Yao Mowan's claims, revealing that the envoy had hired a skilled calligrapher, Mr. Wu Liu, for fifty gold coins to fabricate the document in Prince Su's handwriting.

When the envoy tried to argue it would take at least three days to forge such a document, Yao Mowan cleverly questioned how he would know that if he hadn't planned the forgery. With both human and material evidence presented, the Shu envoy was speechless. Jian Chen, having repaid Ye Junqing's kindness but betrayed Shu, declared that loyalty and righteousness could not coexist, and tragically took his own life.

Emperor Ye Hongyi, enraged by the deception, ordered the Shu envoy arrested and Ye Junqing released. Overwhelmed by exhaustion from her efforts, Yao Mowan collapsed. Later, Yao Mowan awoke to find Ye Junqing by her bedside. He returned her jade pendant, reminding her of their agreement. She then asked if he still saw her as a replacement for her sister, Yao Moxin.

Ye Junqing confessed that while he saw traces of Yao Moxin in her, in his heart, he had long ceased to regard her as a mere substitute. Overjoyed, Yao Mowan embraced him. Their moment was interrupted by Ben Lei, who reported that Princess Han Yue was feeling unwell and specifically requested Yao Mowan's medical attention.

Despite her own fatigue, Yao Mowan agreed to go, but not before playfully complaining about various aches to Ye Junqing, hinting for him to accompany her. Feigning indifference, Ye Junqing urged her to leave quickly, claiming Han Jinyi was waiting for him. As Yao Mowan and Ting Yue made their way to the palace, a flower pot fell from above, narrowly missing Yao Mowan as Ting Yue pushed her aside.

Ben Lei, who had been secretly following them on Ye Junqing's orders, swiftly caught Ting Yue, saving her from falling, and a spark ignited between them. Meanwhile, Ye Junqing discussed the implications of the treason case with Han Jinyi. He recognized that while Dou Shiming might not have been the mastermind, he harbored a strong desire for Ye Junqing's death.

Ye Junqing explained that despite being stripped of his military authority, his deep camaraderie with the border army made him a continuing threat to anyone seeking to truly control them—a threat that would only disappear with his death. He also revealed that Dou Shiming had discovered Han Jinyi's secret investigation into his activities and urged Han Jinyi to continue the investigation to uncover Dou Shiming's true nature.

At the palace, Princess Han Yue tested Yao Mowan by asking about a "Southland Treasure" from her clan, which allowed two people who drank it to sense each other's presence, but Yao Mowan didn't understand its significance. As Yao Mowan examined her, Princess Han Yue, despite symptoms of dizziness and nausea, showed a stable pulse. Princess Han Yue then touched Yao Mowan's arm, noticing a mark there and causing Yao Mowan to instinctively pull back.

The princess apologized, admitting that in her daze, she had momentarily mistaken Yao Mowan for Yao Moxin, noting their striking resemblance. Princess Han Yue then suggested they call each other sisters, a proposal Yao Mowan accepted, and Han Yue pledged to protect her. While retrieving medicine at the palace clinic, Yao Mowan overheard staff discussing the gruesome details of Empress Yao Moxin's death.

They described her vomiting blood and developing rashes, suspecting a combination of poison nut extract and heartbreak grass, the latter having been found in Lady Li's chambers. Realizing the inconsistencies, Yao Mowan urgently sought an audience with Emperor Ye Hongyi. She explained that the symptoms suggested multiple poisons, not just one, and that heartbreak grass alone couldn't have caused such extensive disfigurement. She suspected there were other culprits beyond Lady Li.

Ye Hongyi, however, dismissed her concerns, stating that all evidence had vanished and he wished for her sister to rest in peace. Determined, Yao Mowan secretly entered De Zhao Palace, where Yao Moxin had lived, hoping to find clues. Before she could, Thousand Face ambushed her, knocking her unconscious and bringing her before Emperor Ye Hongyi.

Furious at her trespassing, Ye Hongyi was ready to punish her, but Yao Mowan reiterated her belief that Lady Li was too easily exposed to be the sole culprit. Intrigued, Ye Hongyi granted her seven days and his imperial token to investigate, on the condition that if she found nothing, she must drop the matter. Upon exiting, Yao Mowan encountered Yao Su Luan, who was unsettled by the events and immediately wrote a letter to Dou Xianglan.

The public revelation of Yao Mowan's role in exposing Shu's plot had drawn unwanted attention. Han Jinyi informed Ye Junqing of Dou Shiming and Dou Xianglan's plot to use Yao Mowan to get to him. This, combined with Ben Lei's earlier report of a disguised assailant trying to harm Yao Mowan with a falling flower pot, made Ye Junqing realize she was in grave danger. Aware of the threats, he visited her.

After some lighthearted banter where she playfully accused him of hypocrisy for his secret concern, she tried to ask a hypothetical question about Yao Moxin's killer. Ye Junqing grew visibly frustrated, abruptly shut down the conversation, and left. Still hurt, Yao Mowan confided in Princess Han Yue, who taught her the Nanyue custom of sewing a fragrance pouch to express one's feelings. After making one, she confronted Ye Junqing, asking if he had truly accepted her.

Just then, Ye Junqing spotted a figure spying on them from behind a rock formation. To protect her, he harshly rejected her, reminding her of her "identity" and warning her against "overstepping her boundaries." He threw the pouch to the ground, declaring he "couldn't be bothered" with it. A heartbroken Yao Mowan called him "insane" and ran off. Immediately, Ye Junqing instructed Ben Lei to protect her and apprehend the spy.

Ben Lei failed to catch the figure but noted their strange martial arts and disguise, which solidified Ye Junqing's suspicion that the assailant was Thousand Face, implying Emperor Ye Hongyi himself had other motives concerning Yao Mowan. Once alone, Ye Junqing retrieved the discarded pouch. Distraught, Yao Mowan drank heavily. Ye Junqing, thinking of the pouch and her pain, went looking for her and found her in the palace.

Still angry, she ignored him and used Ye Hongyi's imperial token to enter the Housekeeping Bureau to examine a case file. Suddenly, a sleeping gas filled the room, and she collapsed. The Bureau then erupted in flames, and the two guards on duty were killed. Hearing of the fire, Ye Junqing rushed into the burning building to save Yao Mowan. Trapped together, Yao Mowan confronted him, asking why he had come to die with her.

As death seemed imminent, she pressed him for his true feelings. He confessed that while he had loved Yao Moxin, he never expected that it would be Yao Mowan who stayed by his side through life and death. He began to promise to take care of her if they survived, but his words were cut short. Ben Lei arrived outside, desperately trying to put out the fire, but Yao Mowan, choosing to be willful, refused to leave, determined to hear his full confession.

Ye Hongyi woke up in a cold sweat, haunted by a nightmare of a pregnant Yao Moxin and Ye Junqing lying in pools of blood. His chief eunuch, An Bing Shan, noted His Majesty’s recent distress and offered calming medicine, but Ye Hongyi dismissed it, believing his ailment was a “heart sickness” beyond physical remedies. He inquired about Prince Su's injury, relieved to hear it was superficial and not life-threatening.

Ye Hongyi then lamented how all his loved ones had left him since he ascended the throne, leaving only Prince Su. He mused on the heavy burden of being king, wishing he and his third brother had been born commoners, where they could have been truly loyal brothers. Yet, in the imperial family, one must be the "chess player" or become "a prisoner." He then asked about the ongoing investigation into the palace fire.

Before the truth about the fire could be uncovered, Consort Shu arrived to express her concern for Ye Junqing’s mysterious injury and the palace fire. Shortly after, Yao Su Luan, referred to as Consort Li, also sought an audience. She claimed to be concerned about the Emperor’s recent bad dreams, subtly implying Consort Shu’s interest in Prince Su while disclaiming any concern for "some official" herself.

Consort Shu quickly retaliated, accusing Yao Su Luan of being callous towards Yao Mowan’s condition and suggesting her expressions of sisterhood with Yao Moxin and Yao Mowan were "just for show." Annoyed by their bickering, Ye Hongyi dismissed both consorts and ordered his litter to Prince Su's Residence. At Prince Su's Residence, Yao Mowan tended to Ye Junqing's wounds, scolding him for risking his life to save her during the fire.

She made him promise that no matter what, they would both survive to see each other. She also pressed him about the fire at the Housekeeping Bureau, wondering if someone had targeted her specifically. As Ye Junqing pulled her into an embrace, intending to kiss her, Han Jinyi burst in, interrupting the moment. Yao Mowan, clearly frustrated, labeled Han Jinyi a "party-pooper." Ben Lei then arrived and reassured Yao Mowan that Ye Junqing’s injuries were merely superficial.

Yao Mowan, seizing the opportunity, asked Ben Lei why Yao Moxin had chosen Ye Hongyi over Ye Junqing. Ben Lei recounted the tragic love story, explaining that at the Lantern Carnival years ago, Yao Moxin had been saved by a masked man and mistakenly believed it was Ye Hongyi, leading her to fall deeply in love with him.

Unaware of this misunderstanding, Ye Junqing had bravely confessed his love in the rain, offering to forsake everything—his kingdom and power—to marry her, promising to follow her wherever she wished. However, Yao Moxin, believing her heart already belonged to Ye Hongyi, gently refused, telling Ye Junqing that their love was impossible and he deserved more than to sacrifice his future for her.

Just as Ye Junqing was about to reveal he was her true rescuer, Ye Hongyi dramatically arrived in his wedding attire. He confessed his difficulties in defying their father's decree to marry another, but declared Yao Moxin was his true beloved wife and he was willing to lose everything, even defy a royal decree, to be with her. Devastated, Ye Junqing punched Ye Hongyi, declaring the blow was for himself and for Yao Moxin's hurt feelings.

He relinquished Yao Moxin to Ye Hongyi, but with a stern warning: if Ye Hongyi ever betrayed or hurt her, he would risk his life to take her back. Ye Hongyi solemnly promised to never fail Yao Moxin. Hearing this story, Yao Mowan realized that Ye Junqing was the one who had truly saved her sister at the lantern festival. She felt a profound sadness, acknowledging a strong, inexplicable connection to her sister's tragic romance.

Ben Lei commented on her resemblance to Yao Moxin and noted how Ye Junqing had changed since that day, never accepting another woman until Yao Mowan. Yao Mowan confessed she didn't want her own relationship with Ye Junqing to end in such a sorrowful manner.

Han Jinyi then updated Ye Junqing on his investigation into the Dou family, presenting a detailed map of their money laundering routes across the Kingdom of Chu, made possible by a network of criminal strongholds that Ye Junqing had inspired him to connect. Han Jinyi revealed that the Dou family primarily used waterways and the borderlands to accumulate wealth, having bribed numerous officials along the way.

He further exposed how Dou Shiming conspired with generals to harm common people and falsely claim military merits. Ye Junqing was enraged by the corruption, condemning how officials would betray their own countrymen for profit while honest soldiers fought and died. They discussed how to proceed without "alerting the enemy."

Ye Junqing suggested starting in the capital, where all the illicit gains converged, to uncover the detailed account books of their bribery and laundering, thus allowing them to "catch them in a jar" and swiftly bring them to justice. Han Jinyi then voiced his concern for Ye Junqing, suggesting that if not for the events involving Yao Moxin "that night," Ye Junqing, with his deep concern for the country and its people, would likely be the emperor.

Ye Junqing quickly silenced him, warning him against speaking such words outside. Han Jinyi assured him of his discretion but reiterated his fear of Ye Hongyi's lingering resentment, as Ye Junqing had been "only one step away" from the throne. Ye Junqing confidently stated he had a plan to protect himself. Unbeknownst to them, Yao Mowan was eavesdropping outside the room, wondering what transpired "that night" that could have changed the line of succession. Moments later, Ye Hongyi arrived.

To protect Han Jinyi, Yao Mowan quickly intercepted the Emperor, fabricating a dramatic story that Ye Junqing was undergoing a gruesome procedure to scrape burned flesh, a sight too "revolting" for him. Inside, Han Jinyi quickly created sounds of a painful operation to sell the deception. Convinced, Ye Hongyi suggested he and Yao Mowan take a walk in the gardens.

During their walk, Yao Mowan mentioned being drugged at the Housekeeping Bureau just before the fire, reiterating her suspicion that someone was trying to sabotage her investigation and declaring her unwavering resolve. Ye Hongyi remarked on her striking resemblance to Yao Moxin, noting her shared medical skills, intellect, and strong character. He spoke fondly of his deep bond with Yao Moxin, lamenting that he might never find such understanding again.

Yao Mowan then skillfully steered the conversation toward Ye Junqing, suggesting that despite their apparent distance, both brothers still harbored affection for each other. She interpreted Ye Hongyi's hesitation to eliminate Ye Junqing as a "test of faith," urging them to communicate openly like commoners instead of letting suspicions fester. Ye Hongyi acknowledged her keen insight but expressed uncertainty about how long their "withering relationship" could endure, hoping for a delayed end.

He invited her to the palace to learn more about the complexities of the imperial family, but Yao Mowan politely declined, stating her personality was ill-suited for such intrigues. Ye Hongyi later visited Ye Junqing, observing his concern for Yao Mowan and remarking on her resemblance to Yao Moxin. He then attempted to test Ye Junqing by offering to betroth Yao Mowan to him. Ye Junqing, seeing through the ploy, stated he needed "time to ponder over it."

Ye Hongyi, acknowledging his cautiousness, accepted the answer and then presented Ye Junqing with a special "wound-healing tonic" from the palace clinic. Ye Junqing, momentarily hesitant, prompted Ye Hongyi to question if he suspected poison. Ye Junqing then drank the tonic and Ye Hongyi departed. Unbeknownst to them, Yao Mowan had been eavesdropping again and was furious at Ye Junqing's response.

She angrily called him a "thankless wretch" and "white-eyed wolf" for his perceived rejection, accusing him of being willing to sacrifice a kingdom for her sister but not admitting his feelings for her. Ye Junqing denied any impropriety with Yao Moxin but refused to explain, further enraging Yao Mowan, who stormed off calling him a "wolf in sheep's clothing" and a "beast." Still fuming, Yao Mowan encountered Han Jinyi and vented her frustration about Ye Junqing.

Han Jinyi redirected the conversation, asking about her activities at the Housekeeping Bureau. Yao Mowan explained her search for records of palace staff who disappeared after her sister’s illness, and how the fire had destroyed her leads, making the situation even more suspicious. Han Jinyi suggested that the "Supreme Court's archives" would also hold records of arrested palace staff.

They attempted to gain entry using Yao Mowan’s royal tablet, but the guards denied access without an imperial decree, stating the tablet only granted access to the palace, not the judicial grounds. Worried about losing her only trail, Yao Mowan accepted Han Jinyi’s help to sneak over the wall. Inside the archives, they found a crucial clue pointing to the "Imperial Prison."

To gain access to this heavily guarded location, Yao Mowan devised a plan: she deliberately provoked a guard, striking him and declaring, "I'm breaking this prison," leading to her immediate arrest and incarceration. Meanwhile, Ben Lei informed Ye Junqing that the Border Guards, hearing of his safety, were offering their unwavering support if he chose to overthrow the Emperor and leave the capital.

Ye Junqing firmly rejected the offer, stating his desire to abandon the "politics of the court" and "seek peace," to live "a life of solitude" with Yao Mowan if she was willing. Ben Lei expressed his relief that Ye Junqing had "finally seen the light," believing it was what Yao Moxin would have wanted. However, Han Jinyi then arrived with alarming news: Yao Mowan had been locked up in the Imperial Prison for "attempting to break it."

A shocked Ye Junqing demanded to know why, then immediately ordered Ben Lei to prepare horses, intending to go to the palace to intervene. In her cell, Yao Mowan tried to communicate with a silent, unresponsive prisoner next to her. A guard brought food, part of a plot by Dou Shiming to poison her. The adjacent prisoner, who had been begging for days, asked for food, and Yao Mowan offered her bowl to him.

The desperate prisoner devoured it, only to immediately start frothing at the mouth and collapse, revealing that the food meant for Yao Mowan was poisoned. Yao Mowan desperately called for help, realizing the danger she was in and asking to switch cells.

In the imperial prison, Yao Mowan found Ban Xia, Queen Yao Moxin's personal handmaiden. Ban Xia recognized Yao Mowan, who admitted to having lost her memory. Ban Xia told her that fate had brought them together, and she had vital information about the queen's death. She revealed that before Yao Moxin's death, she discovered issues with her prenatal medicine and instructed Ban Xia to hide the medicine dregs.

Yao Moxin suspected three concubines and even His Majesty Ye Hongyi, specifically warning Ban Xia not to trust the Emperor. Yao Mowan realized that Lady Li, previously accused, was merely a scapegoat. She learned that the maid who accused Lady Li and Consort Shu's handmaiden, Cai Die, were distant relatives, a detail few in the palace knew.

Yao Mowan pressed Ban Xia for the location of the medicine dregs, and Ban Xia revealed they were hidden in the gap of a rockery near a camellia tree. Meanwhile, Ye Junqing, having learned that Yao Mowan was nearly poisoned in prison, rushed there. Guards tried to stop him, but he forced his way in, relieved to find Yao Mowan unharmed.

Ban Xia, seeing Ye Junqing, started to plead with him to bring justice for Yao Moxin, but Yao Mowan quickly interrupted her, explaining that Ban Xia had been imprisoned too long and was unaware that justice had already been served. Lord Thousand Face then arrived and accused Ye Junqing of attempting a prison break, arresting him and taking him to Ye Hongyi. Consort Shu, overhearing the news, expressed worry to Ye Hongyi, wondering if Yao Mowan had bewitched Ye Junqing.

Ye Hongyi dismissed her concerns, noting Ye Junqing's usual composure. Before Ye Hongyi, Ye Junqing accepted his punishment for trespassing but explained his reason: a prisoner had been poisoned after mistakenly eating Yao Mowan's meal, putting Yao Mowan's life at risk within the supposedly impregnable prison walls. He questioned Lord Thousand Face about the security lapse. Lord Thousand Face admitted negligence and promised to investigate.

Ye Junqing emphasized that Yao Mowan's continued imprisonment put her life in peril, something he believed Ye Hongyi would not wish. Ye Hongyi, questioning Ye Junqing's persistent appeals for Yao Mowan, was told that Ye Junqing merely wished to repay her kindness. After considering the matter, Ye Hongyi decided to release Yao Mowan, deeming her near-death experience sufficient punishment. However, for Ye Junqing's transgression of breaking the law, he was sentenced to kneel outside the palace gate for two hours.

Ye Junqing accepted his punishment without complaint. Back at his residence, he deflected Yao Mowan's questions about his conversation with the Emperor, claiming they discussed frontier government affairs. He then playfully teased her, and she wondered if he was trying to take advantage of her, to which he teasingly asked what she was thinking. Dou Xiang Lan was enraged that Yao Mowan was safe and released.

Dou Shiming informed her that the poison intended for Yao Mowan was consumed by a eunuch instead. He warned Dou Xiang Lan that Yao Mowan might be secretly investigating past events and instructed her to closely monitor Yao Mowan's every move in the Yao Residence. Following Ban Xia's instructions, Yao Mowan went to retrieve the medicine dregs from the rockery but was intercepted by Lord Thousand Face, who demanded to search her, citing recent thefts in the palace.

Fortunately, Princess Han Yue arrived just in time, claiming Duan Ting Ting was unwell and urgently needed Yao Mowan's medical attention. Lord Thousand Face, unwilling to bear the responsibility for delaying a princess's treatment, reluctantly let Yao Mowan go. Yao Mowan, with Princess Han Yue, meticulously examined the medicine dregs. She discovered three different poisons. The poison nut extract, which had implicated Lady Li's family, appeared to be a setup.

Additionally, she found Suqingfeng herb, a potent toxin not native to Chu, suggesting a separate perpetrator. She reasoned that it was unlikely a single individual would use two entirely different poisons. The third substance was aconite gum, which is harmless on its own but causes immediate miscarriage in pregnant women if taken in excess. Yao Mowan concluded that the poisoning involved at least two, possibly three, different groups.

Considering the presence of an abortifacient, Princess Han Yue suggested that Ye Hongyi was the most probable culprit. Princess Han Yue then recounted the story of Yao Moxin and Ye Junqing's fateful night. Yao Moxin had gone alone to Ye Junqing's camp because Ye Hongyi was besieged by several princes. She desperately pleaded with Ye Junqing to save Ye Hongyi.

Though saddened that she came for another man, Ye Junqing listened as Yao Moxin explained her desire to protect not only Ye Hongyi but also the Chu dynasty and its people. She knelt, imploring Ye Junqing, the "God of War" of Chu, to support Ye Hongyi's ascension, vowing to remain with her husband through life and death.

Ye Junqing promised to protect Yao Moxin for life and agreed to help Ye Hongyi, but on the condition that she grant him a request: to stay the night in his camp while he painted her portrait. That night, she remained, and he completed the painting. Upon her return to the palace, Yao Moxin became pregnant, and rumors began to spread. Ye Hongyi grew suspicious, angrily questioning Yao Moxin about her night with Ye Junqing.

Yao Moxin insisted they merely completed a painting and challenged him, asking if he would still be on the throne if she truly had an affair. Eventually, Ye Hongyi claimed to believe her and told her to rest. Yao Mowan, deeply affected by the story, felt an inexplicable empathy for her sister. Princess Han Yue, who had once placed a "Southland Treasure" on Yao Moxin, revealed that she still sensed Yao Moxin's "breath" emanating from Yao Mowan.

She presented two astonishing possibilities: either Yao Mowan herself was Yao Moxin, or Yao Moxin was not dead. Yao Mowan found this hard to believe, but Princess Han Yue asserted that given the mystical nature of the ancient treasure, these were the only logical conclusions. Yao Mowan recalled that Ye Hongyi had previously denied her the chance to see Yao Moxin's body, citing his grief.

Unbeknownst to her, Ye Hongyi was secretly preserving Yao Moxin's body in an icehouse, filled with regret. This, combined with Han Yue's revelation, further solidified Yao Mowan's suspicions about the true circumstances of her sister's death. Confused and distraught, Yao Mowan returned to the Yao Residence. She spoke with her mother, Mo Li, about the evidence of the Dou Family's corruption and financial malfeasance, which she believed could bring them down with a specific ledger.

Mo Li vaguely recalled Yao Mowan mentioning a ledger before her disappearance and agreed to help find it. Later that night, Mo Li successfully retrieved the ledger. However, Dou Xiang Lan, who had secretly followed Yao Mowan and overheard their plan, confronted her. Dou Xiang Lan cruelly admitted to killing Mo Li by giving her a poisoned "ginseng tonic," mockingly stating that Mo Li's "lowly life" meant she "couldn't use such noble things" and thus "died just like that."

Yao Mowan discovered Mo Li's lifeless body. Enraged, she confronted Dou Xiang Lan, who openly boasted about the Dou Family's deep roots in the palace and her daughter's impending ascension to empress. Dou Xiang Lan taunted Yao Mowan, claiming that Ye Junqing was "unable to protect himself," leaving Yao Mowan without any support.

Overcome with grief, Yao Mowan collapsed beside her mother's body and pretended to be mad, cradling Mo Li and telling her father, Yao Zhenting, that Mo Li was merely sleeping. Heartbroken, Yao Zhenting was filled with self-reproach. He lamented his past mistakes, including abandoning his first wife for his career, enduring a lifetime of subservience to the powerful Dou Family, and now, as Prime Minister, being powerless to protect his wife and daughters.

He wished only for Yao Mowan to live safely and vowed to bring justice for Mo Li and Yao Moxin. Yao Mowan, emerging from her feigned madness, assured her father not to worry, as she would personally ensure justice was served.

After attending Mo Li's funeral, where her father Yao Zhengteng implored her to live well and promised justice for Mo Li and Yao Moxin, Yao Mowan reassured him that she had her own plans. Returning to the palace, she discovered a secret passage. Following it, she found Yao Moxin's body, clad in a red phoenix robe, lying in an ice coffin. At that moment, Yao Mowan's memories merged with her sister's, revealing that the poisoning had made them one.

She realized she now possessed both Yao Moxin's and Yao Mowan's memories. Tears streamed down her face as she recalled Emperor Ye Hongyi's deep suspicion of Yao Moxin's unborn child, Zhong'er. Ye Hongyi had confided his unease to his eunuch, who then promised to alleviate the Emperor's worries, subtly implying his involvement in tampering with the prenatal medicine. Meanwhile, Emperor Ye Hongyi gazed at a portrait of Yao Moxin, drinking and speaking to himself.

He confessed his past desire to protect Mo Xin, admitting that his heart had changed and he had unknowingly fallen in love with someone else. He apologized to Mo Xin, wondering if this was what she would have wanted. He resolved to let go of the past and vowed to protect Yao Mowan on Mo Xin's behalf. Disheartened, Yao Mowan returned to her residence.

Upon seeing Han Jinyi, she involuntarily blurted out "this empress," startling him and making him question what she had discovered in the palace. Yao Mowan then revealed that she had found the residue of Yao Moxin's prenatal medicine, which contained three poisons: Suqingfeng herb, aconite gum, and poison nut.

She explained that Suqingfeng herb, a rare and precious guiding herb used by the Shu royal family, was likely brought in by Dou Shiming—who had connections with Shu royalty and a relationship with Yao Su Luan—shortly before her sister's death. Han Jinyi confirmed that he had seen aconite gum in the Pavilion of Treasures when he was previously there. This led Yao Mowan to conclude that only the Emperor could have placed it there.

She further deduced that Lady Li was merely a scapegoat for the poison nut, as the maid who accused her was a distant relative of Cai Die, Wang Qingruo's head maid. Yao Mowan was stunned to realize that Yao Moxin's sudden death was not a simple matter but a collective conspiracy involving the imperial harem and the Emperor himself.

She lamented the futility of emotions, heartbroken that her beloved, Ye Hongyi, and her own sisters had been the ones to betray and poison Yao Moxin, ultimately leading to her death and the loss of her unborn child. She vowed to avenge her sister and mother. Despite Han Jinyi's concerns that she might suffer the same fate as Yao Moxin, Yao Mowan, with tears in her eyes, declared her unwavering resolve for revenge.

She asked Han Jinyi to keep their conversation a secret from Ye Junqing, as he had already sacrificed too much for Mo Xin, and she could not burden him with this responsibility. She entrusted Han Jinyi with the care of Ye Junqing. Yao Mowan, knowing her time with Ye Junqing was limited, found him after he had spent the night with Yao Moxin's portrait, which he kept from their past encounter.

Feigning anger, she accused him of being two-faced and asked if he truly loved her, then insisted he complete a "dating list" with her that day as she was "being willful." The list included visiting a market, releasing Kongming lanterns, guessing riddles, and revisiting their first dangerous encounter spot. They shared candied haws and hung wish ribbons, then released Kongming lanterns, with Ye Junqing writing a wish for them to be together through life and death, constantly missing Mo Wan.

They arrived at the place where they first met, recalling how that peril had brought them together from being strangers. Yao Mowan playfully asked Ye Junqing to carry her, as she had carried him before. While he carried her, she repeatedly asked him what he would say if Yao Moxin reappeared, hinting that Mo Xin would choose him if given another chance.

Ye Junqing, growing somewhat puzzled by her constant mention of Mo Xin, affirmed that he would simply wish Mo Xin well and would protect her from afar, as he only cared about Yao Mowan now. They returned to a tranquil spot, where Yao Mowan reminded him that he had given her the name Nian Xin there. She then reflected on their journey, noting that their initial relationship, based on gratitude, had now blossomed into something wonderful.

Overwhelmed, Ye Junqing embraced her and promised that once their current affairs were settled, they would leave the imperial conflicts behind and live a carefree life together. Deeply moved, Yao Mowan stood on tiptoes to kiss Ye Junqing, making what she knew was their final farewell. As their final act, Yao Mowan asked Ye Junqing to row a boat to the opposite bank, promising to answer if she could hear him.

While he rowed away, she tearfully spoke her farewell aloud, apologizing for letting him down and for ruining half his life. She confessed that he was now her everything, but she had more important tasks to accomplish for her mother and Yao Moxin. She expressed no expectation of his forgiveness or continued love, but vowed to live only for him from that day forward.

After Ye Junqing reached the other side and found her gone, he returned to his residence, where a servant handed him a farewell letter from Yao Mowan. In the letter, she explained that she was leaving not because she no longer loved him, but because loving an "uncertain person" was too exhausting.

She then included detailed instructions for his future partner, describing his personality, preferences, and how to win his affection, with a specific note about his sensitivity regarding Mo Xin. She concluded the letter with a poignant farewell, acknowledging that their love was separated by insurmountable obstacles and expressing her hope for his happiness and peace in this life, while only wishing to know of his well-being in the next.

Ye Junqing immediately began a frantic search for Yao Mowan, unknowingly passing her sedan chair in the streets. Upon returning to his residence, his servant informed him that palace guards had reported seeing Yao Mowan enter the palace. Yao Mowan appeared before Ye Hongyi, dressed in Yao Moxin's attire, leaving him stunned, as he momentarily mistook her for Mo Xin. With her dual memories, her every gesture and movement mirrored Yao Moxin's.

She thought to herself that Ye Hongyi wouldn't know she was both Mo Wan and Mo Xin, and that her merged memories allowed her to understand his deepest desires. After introducing herself as Yao Mowan, she explained that she had come to perform a dance on the seventh day after her sister's passing, fearing he would be sad. Ye Hongyi, however, sensed she had a request.

Yao Mowan boldly asked him to grant her status and honor, arguing that the status of Prince Su's consort was incomparable to that bestowed by the Emperor, who commanded the world. She asserted her ambition, reminding him that this was what he once admired in her sister. She then offered to fill the void in his heart left by Yao Moxin's death, confident in her ability to do so.

Meanwhile, Ye Junqing arrived at the palace, demanding to see the Emperor. The eunuch tried to block him, mentioning the Emperor was with a "pretty lady," leading Ye Junqing to suspect it was Yao Mowan. Inside, Yao Mowan requested permission from Ye Hongyi to speak with Ye Junqing outside, promising to resolve matters. She confronted Ye Junqing, who couldn't comprehend her behavior, believing she was merely jesting.

He reminded her of her farewell letter, which stated she would no longer accompany him. When he tried to pull her away, she sternly reiterated that their connection was severed and he should not get into trouble because of her. Producing their written agreement, which stated that Nian Xin was part of Prince Su's residence and he must fulfill her requests and that Nian Xin was always right, Ye Junqing tried to appeal to their past.

However, Yao Mowan cruelly retorted, accusing him of being fickle and asserting that she was simply re-directing her affections to the Emperor, as any woman would choose the ruler of the world over a prince. Ye Junqing, deeply hurt, pleaded with her to stop speaking. Ye Junqing was utterly heartbroken and refused to believe that Yao Mowan was truly abandoning him, despite her cutting words. He was repeatedly provoked by her coldness. However, Yao Mowan, maintaining her facade, turned and retreated inside, leaving him alone and distraught outside the door.

At the Yao Residence, Eunuch An Bing Shan announced Emperor Ye Hongyi's decree, conferring Yao Mowan as Consort Wan. She was to join the three other concubines in managing the palace harem. Dou Shiming offered his congratulations, praising Yao Mowan for swiftly gaining the Emperor's favor and achieving equal status with Yao Su Luan. Dou Xiang Lan echoed his sentiments, calling it a joyous occasion for the Yao family.

Dou Shiming then subtly lauded Yao Su Luan, a legitimate daughter of a prestigious family, for her many years of dedicated service to His Majesty, suggesting she deserved recognition. Ye Hongyi acknowledged Consort Li’s gentle and virtuous character, and with the Six Palaces currently lacking a master, he decided to promote Consort Li to Noble Consort Li, tasking her with temporarily managing the Six Palaces.

He also conferred upon Dou Xiang Lan the title of First Rank Lady for her excellent child-rearing. The consort conferment ceremony was set for three days later. Meanwhile, at Prince Su’s Residence, Ye Junqing appeared to be immersed in a life of hedonism, surrounded by beautiful dancers. During one performance, he mistook the lead dancer, Jing Xin, for Yao Mowan, finding her movements "ethereal and graceful" and rewarding her. Jing Xin introduced herself, offering to be called "Xin'er."

Ye Junqing remarked that her name, Jing Xin (meaning "still heart"), didn't suit her, as "having a gorgeous lady like you beside me, how could any man's heart be still?" Soon after, Han Jinyi informed Ye Junqing that the Emperor's spies had withdrawn, revealing that Ye Junqing’s hedonistic lifestyle was merely an act for the Emperor. Ye Junqing, having fulfilled his purpose, declared himself "tired" and retired for the day.

Ye Hongyi, having received reports of Prince Su's dramatic change in temperament, asked Yao Mowan for her opinion. Yao Mowan congratulated the Emperor, explaining that her sister, Mo Xin, once told her that a person's sudden change in character often follows a traumatic experience that makes them recognize their own powerlessness. Only after recognizing their true self would they cease to covet what wasn't meant to be theirs.

She assured Ye Hongyi that his past worries could now be dispelled, allowing him to "rest easy" from then on. Ye Hongyi expressed satisfaction, noting that Mo Xin had taught Yao Mowan well. After Ye Hongyi departed, Yao Mowan, alone, muttered that for someone like her, even after recognizing her weaknesses, she would "still do everything I can to turn the table, and take back what was meant to be mine."

Later, as Yao Mowan changed out of her formal attire, Yao Su Luan appeared, coldly asking why she wasn't still imitating Yao Moxin, noting that a "plain look suits you much better." Yao Su Luan remarked that Yao Mowan truly resembled Mo Xin and that the muted, elegant makeup she wore suited her perfectly, adding, "No wonder His Majesty fancies you." Yao Mowan feigned memory loss, asking Yao Su Luan to recount Mo Xin's past.

Yao Su Luan, however, accused Yao Mowan of being just like Mo Xin—"fickle-minded," claiming both had "feelings for Ye Junqing" yet chose to "steal my love," while she herself had "been loyal and loved only Hong Yi." She declared, "He should've been my husband. I'm supposed to be his legal wife." Yao Su Luan then recounted her history with Ye Hongyi. Years ago, after her coming-of-age ceremony, she was harassed by drunk men while visiting a temple.

It was Ye Hongyi who saved her. From that moment, her heart was set on him, but she couldn't find him again until the Great Hunt. Overjoyed to discover he was a prince, she believed they were "of similar backgrounds" and "meant to be." However, fate intervened when Ye Hongyi instead became smitten with her step-sister, Mo Xin, their eyes filled with love for each other.

Unable to bear it, Yao Su Luan pleaded with her mother, Dou Xiang Lan, and uncle, Dou Shiming, to persuade the late Emperor to betroth her to Ye Hongyi. On their wedding day, a report came that Mo Xin had run away. Ye Hongyi abandoned Yao Su Luan in the bridal chamber to search for Mo Xin, with whom he secretly took marriage vows and consummated their relationship.

Yao Su Luan spent her wedding night alone, without the traditional couple's wine or intimacy. When Ye Hongyi ascended the throne, he made Mo Xin Empress, leaving Yao Su Luan, the legitimate wife, to "end up as his concubine instead." Yao Mowan then asked if this was "the real reason why Mo Xin must die?"

She reminded Yao Su Luan of the fate of her own mother, Mo Li, who, despite being the legal first wife, was "forced to become a servant" and "her title was taken away" due to the First Madam's background, only being accepted as a concubine after many years. Compared to her mother, Yao Mowan asserted, Yao Su Luan was "very lucky" as "at least you're still alive."

Yao Mowan admonished Yao Su Luan, stating that her "wishful thinking" and "selfish desire" led her to "force things," but "love cannot be forced," and this was "karma getting back at you." Yao Su Luan, undeterred, vowed to become "the most important woman by his side," claiming that since "Mo Xin is gone," it "would've been my turn" if not for Yao Mowan.

Yao Mowan chillingly asked if Yao Su Luan ever had "nightmares" about Mo Xin and her mother's tragic deaths. Later, Ye Junqing met with Ye Hongyi, explaining his delay by admiring camellias in the imperial garden and asking for a plant. Ye Hongyi granted his wish but then questioned Ye Junqing's recent hedonistic lifestyle and whether he truly intended to "continue being so carefree."

Ye Junqing asserted that he was "always carefree" and merely desired "a bottle of wine, to play the zither, and burn incense" for his enjoyment. Ye Hongyi then revealed his intention: to appoint Ye Junqing as the escort for Yao Mowan's upcoming conferment ceremony. He explained this would bestow "unparalleled honour and status" upon Yao Mowan on his behalf and "put an end to any gossip and unfavourable thoughts" regarding her entry into the palace.

Though disheartened, Ye Junqing accepted, promising to "escort Consort Wan to where she's meant to be." As Noble Consort Li was preparing to return to the palace from the Yao Residence, Dou Xiang Lan spotted a loyal servant carrying Yao Mowan's ceremonial gown. She grabbed the gown and threw it to the ground, asserting that "servants shouldn't get to decide in the Yao household" and mocking that even servants were "getting obnoxious" over a mere consort title.

The servant, fiercely loyal, retorted that he had served Young Lady Mo Wan since childhood and she was the only one who treated him like a human. He declared her his master and vowed to protect her, even if it meant risking his life. Enraged, Dou Xiang Lan reminded him that in the palace, "aside from the Emperor, there cannot be other men," and ordered him to be taken away. The servant was brutally punished and castrated.

Upon learning of his suffering, Yao Mowan was devastated, blaming her own powerlessness. She vowed to make them "pay for what they did today." Han Jinyi confronted Yao Mowan, asking if she truly didn't care about Ye Junqing's feelings by entering the palace for revenge. Yao Mowan explained that death was "not the most painful price" for her enemies; she wanted them to "fall from the clouds to the dust, to be judged for their crimes."

She asserted that she needed "the highest power to protect Junqing and my family," and this could only be achieved by "being in the palace." Han Jinyi then informed her that Ye Junqing had been appointed as her escort. Yao Mowan, visibly pained, asked if he was okay, then internally reflected that this was all "just for show," a game of who could act more convincingly.

On the day of the ceremony, as Yao Mowan sat in her bridal robes, she confided in her maid that as long as the ceremony wasn't complete, they were "not officially a proper couple." She then asked to be left alone. Shortly after, masked men burst in and kidnapped her. Upon discovering her disappearance, Ye Junqing and Han Jinyi immediately launched a search.

Han Jinyi believed Yao Mowan would have left clues, and indeed, they soon found scattered boneset from her fragrance pouch along the path. At the palace, Ye Hongyi and Noble Consort Li awaited the ceremony. An Bing Shan reported Consort Wan's sudden disappearance, leading Ye Hongyi to question whether she had "really gone missing or did she run off?" Dou Xiang Lan insisted her daughter would never perform such a "disgraceful act."

An Bing Shan clarified that Prince Su's message indicated Consort Wan was "kidnapped and taken away by thugs." Ye Hongyi declared he would wait to see if Prince Su, who was in charge of the escort, was "capable of bringing my concubine here safely." Following the trail of boneset to a lake, Ye Junqing and Han Jinyi witnessed a black-clad man push Yao Mowan into the water, telling her, "Every debt has its debtor. Someone wants you dead.

Allow me to help you on your way." Ye Junqing immediately dove into the water and rescued Yao Mowan. Back at the palace, An Bing Shan reported to Ye Hongyi that Consort Wan had been found. He hesitantly added that she was "kidnapped by a gang of thugs and assaulted," and when Prince Su found her at the lake, "her clothes were not covering her body." He further revealed that "word of the incident has gotten out in the capital. People are saying that Consort Wan is. . . already tainted." Just as Ye Hongyi reacted in shock, Ye Junqing entered with Yao Mowan.

Yao Mowan returned to the palace for her conferment ceremony. Before her arrival, An Bing Shan reported rumors of Consort Wan being found unclothed, implying impurity, which displeased Ye Hongyi. He questioned Yao Mowan, who explained she was kidnapped by a thug intending to throw her into a lake, framing her for escaping the conferment. Prince Su, Ye Junqing, and Han Jinyi arrived in time to rescue her, preserving her purity and life.

Yao Mowan suspected someone wanted her dead and her reputation ruined. Ye Junqing reported that his security at the Yao Residence meant only an insider could have kidnapped Yao Mowan. The masked assailants committed suicide by ingesting poison after fighting his men, leaving only their bodies. Thousand Faces reported the poison, Suqingfeng herb, was exclusive to Shu and only obtainable by those with Shu connections.

Prime Minister Yao confirmed the deceased was Dou San, a distant relative of his wife's family who had become a bandit. Despite Dou Xiang Lan's claims of innocence, Ye Hongyi reminded her that her uncle, Governor Dou, had ties with Shu. Han Jinyi presented testimony from Yao Residence servants who had heard Dou Xiang Lan express resentment towards Yao Mowan.

Based on these circumstances, Ye Hongyi stripped Dou Xiang Lan of her First Rank Lady title and sent her to the Supreme Court for interrogation. As Ye Junqing escorted Yao Mowan back to the palace, he noted her residence, Guanju Palace, indicating the Emperor's favor. Ye Junqing acknowledged Yao Mowan's "good show" and Han Jinyi's assistance. In a flashback, Yao Mowan asked Han Jinyi to stage a kidnapping to suppress the Dou family.

She explained her philosophy of not allowing her boundaries to be continually pushed and that a tree’s roots must reach into darkness to grow strong. Han Jinyi agreed to help, suggesting they use a notorious Dou family thug he had long wanted to eliminate. Ye Junqing felt like a pawn in her plan and offered to take her away unconditionally if she wished.

Yao Mowan coldly rejected him, asserting that he could not protect her, just as he could not protect Mo Xin, and that only the Emperor's supreme power could. Heartbroken, Ye Junqing congratulated her on achieving her desires before departing. Later, Ye Junqing held a sachet, lamenting ever meeting her. He tossed the sachet into a box and drowned his sorrows in alcohol. Ben Lei worried about Ye Junqing's health and urged Han Jinyi to intervene.

Recalling Yao Mowan's words, Ye Junqing became agitated and brandished his sword. Han Jinyi cautioned Ye Junqing against complacency, citing the Dou family's lingering threat and Ye Hongyi's ruthless methods. Observing Ye Junqing's distress, Han Jinyi acknowledged Yao Mowan's change but suggested she had her reasons. He promised to dispatch the elite hidden guard Yin Xue from the savanna to protect Yao Mowan in the palace, relieving Ye Junqing of his worries.

Han Jinyi offered to drink with Ye Junqing that night but insisted he quickly regain his composure, reminding him that Chu's God of War should not be consumed by matters of the heart. Meanwhile, in Dezhao Palace, Ye Hongyi spoke to a memorial for Yao Moxin, seeking her forgiveness.

He confided that seeing Yao Mowan felt like seeing Mo Xin again, bringing a sense of rediscovery, and he intended to bestow upon Yao Mowan all the adoration he once held for Mo Xin to mend the void in his heart. Later, Princess Chang Feng, Duan Ting Ting, forcefully entered Ye Junqing's residence, expressing her concern and reiterating her affection, declaring she had been unable to forget him since they first met when she was fifteen.

Ye Junqing, feigning drunkenness, excused himself and left. In her palace, Yao Mowan was visibly dejected, prompting her maid, Ting Yue, to question why she chose such a difficult path. Yao Mowan responded that this was her only viable path. She admitted to repeatedly hurting Ye Junqing and feeling deserving of her current pain. Yao Mowan then advised Ting Yue on surviving the treacherous palace: "pretend to be dumb, endure, and stay loyal and vigilant."

An Bing Shan delivered extravagant gifts to Yao Mowan on Ye Hongyi's behalf. Yao Mowan recognized these lavish gifts as a "hot potato" that would instantly make her a target among the other concubines. Deciding to confront the situation head-on, she prepared to visit the other ladies in the harem. During her visit, Noble Consort Li openly refused Yao Mowan's offering, remarking that using connections as stepping stones would only lead to trouble.

On her way back to her chambers, Yao Mowan observed Concubine Cai and Guard Commander Huangfu Junxiu engaged in a secret rendezvous. She revealed her knowledge of their forbidden love, recalling how Yao Moxin had often facilitated their meetings in the past. Yao Mowan knew that Concubine Cai's marriage to Ye Hongyi was a mere contractual arrangement to secure military support, with no true affection.

She promised to continue aiding them in fulfilling Yao Moxin’s unfinished task, but warned them that she had been followed and that their current meeting spot was no longer safe. Later, Han Yue, accompanied by Duan Ting Ting, visited Yao Mowan. Duan Ting Ting expressed her anger at Yao Mowan for causing Ye Junqing's sadness. Han Yue sent Ting Ting away, then directly addressed Yao Mowan as Mo Xin, having recognized her true identity.

Yao Mowan confirmed she was indeed Mo Xin, explaining that fate had granted her a second chance through Mo Wan's body to change her destiny, and affirming her intention for revenge. Han Yue, concerned for her friend, warned that her current predicament was even more dangerous than before. Mo Xin, however, declared her resolve to "counter whatever comes my way." That night, Ye Hongyi arrived at Guanju Palace.

He inquired about her comfort, and then, reminiscing about Mo Xin, he initiated intimacy. Yao Mowan, visibly reluctant and nervous, hesitated to undress him. He dismissed her concerns, promising to teach her Mo Xin's ways. As their intimacy deepened, numerous poisonous snakes suddenly swarmed into the room, causing Yao Mowan to break out in a rash. Ye Hongyi immediately summoned a doctor and Thousand Faces. Thousand Faces discovered snake-luring incense hidden under Yao Mowan’s bed.

Ye Hongyi grew suspicious, questioning whether Yao Mowan had entered the palace with genuine intentions or if she was conspiring with Ye Junqing to assassinate him. He decreed that she would remain confined to Guanju Palace until the truth was uncovered.

Han Jinyi urgently informed Ye Junqing that Yao Mowan had been placed under house arrest. The Emperor had discovered snake-luring incense in Guanju Palace and suspected Yao Mowan of trying to kill him. Yao Mowan, recalling Duan Ting Ting's earlier visit to Guanju Palace, suspected Duan Ting Ting was behind the snake-luring incense. However, to protect Duan Ting Ting, Yao Mowan claimed she knew nothing, which deepened Ye Hongyi's suspicions.

He believed she had entered the palace with the intent to murder him and enhance Ye Junqing's position, leading him to confine her to Guanju Palace. In her chambers, Consort Shu heard her maid mention a snake infestation and offered snake-repellant grass. Consort Shu dismissed it, stating it was "treachery" and suspected Yao Mowan had offended someone. Soon after, Ye Junqing, in plain clothes, snuck into her chambers.

He questioned Consort Shu about the snake incident and if she knew any details or was involved. Consort Shu, noting he sought her out just for Yao Mowan, expressed dismay that despite their upbringing as cousins, he would suspect her. She denied involvement and then, seeing his desperation, Ye Junqing implored her to use her influence and resourcefulness to save Yao Mowan.

Consort Shu retorted that she had never seen him beg before and felt he was taking advantage of her feelings for him. As Ye Junqing prepared to leave, she stopped him, agreeing to help if he promised her one thing. Later, Consort Shu went to Han Yue, who was upset with Duan Ting Ting.

Duan Ting Ting tearfully confessed she only wanted to teach Yao Mowan a small lesson and hadn't intended for the situation to escalate to the point of execution. Consort Shu confirmed their involvement and stated she wasn't there to expose them but to borrow something to save Yao Mowan. Han Yue was wary, but Consort Shu convinced her by pointing out that Yao Mowan's situation was already dire. Han Yue then reluctantly agreed.

Ye Hongyi visited Yao Mowan, apologizing for having wronged her. He revealed that he had apprehended the true culprit. Qian Mian reported that Consort Si was caught attempting to dispose of a snake-luring bell. After consulting scholars, it was determined that snake-luring incense only works when combined with a snake-luring bell. Given Consort Si's exotic tribal background, her involvement with such "sorcery" seemed plausible.

Ye Hongyi expressed his regret for Yao Mowan's distress, vowing severe punishment for anyone who dared to harm her again. To mark her entry and dispel any lingering bad luck, he announced a grand banquet for that evening. Yao Mowan expressed her gratitude. Shortly after, Consort Shu visited Yao Mowan, revealing she had orchestrated the rescue by finding Consort Si as a "scapegoat."

She advised Yao Mowan to be more cautious in the future, as one wrong step could lead to ruin. Yao Mowan thanked Consort Shu for saving her life but found it peculiar that Consort Shu would genuinely help her. Speaking to Ting Yue later, Yao Mowan acknowledged Consort Shu's ruthlessness in using a life but also found her aid surprising. She instructed Ting Yue to prepare funds for Consort Si's proper burial.

At the banquet, Ye Hongyi extended an invitation to Ye Junqing to visit the palace more often, wishing to enjoy his company. He then celebrated Yao Mowan's entry into the palace. Ye Hongyi praised Yao Mowan's dancing, remarking that it was as stunning and graceful as that of the late Empress Yao Moxin, and asked Consort Shu to accompany her on the qin. Their harmonious performance made Consort Shu, who harbored feelings for Ye Junqing, intensely jealous.

Ye Junqing then volunteered to perform a sword dance to add to the festivities. However, in the middle of his performance, he collapsed in a drunken stupor. Ye Hongyi immediately ordered his servants to take Ye Junqing to an inner hall to rest. Consort Chen approached Yao Mowan at the banquet, complimenting her graceful dance. She then offered a toast, but "accidentally" spilled wine all over Yao Mowan.

Consort Chen urged Yao Mowan to change her clothes, promising to cover for her with the Emperor. Yao Mowan sought and received permission from Ye Hongyi to leave. She was then escorted back to a room by Consort Chen's maid, Dong Qing. While Yao Mowan was changing, Ye Junqing, who had been resting in the room, emerged from behind a screen.

In his drunken state, he mistook the encounter for a dream, asking Yao Mowan why she wouldn't leave his thoughts. Yao Mowan, realizing he was heavily intoxicated, asked him what he was doing there. Ye Junqing questioned why their lives had taken such a turn, asking if she had a hidden purpose. Yao Mowan, in turn, told him to pretend she was dead, which he vehemently refused. She attempted to calm him down.

Consort Chen's maid, Dong Qing, returned to the banquet and falsely reported to Ye Hongyi that Yao Mowan had disappeared after being taken to her room. Informed that Ye Junqing was also resting in Pingle Palace, Ye Hongyi, already suspicious, became furious. He led his soldiers to Pingle Palace, ordering them to break down the locked door. Inside, they found Yao Mowan lying unconscious with an injury to her forehead.

Just before the Emperor's arrival, Yao Mowan, realizing they were trapped and the doors were locked, deduced it was a scheme to frame her and Ye Junqing. Ye Junqing had urged her to blame him, claiming he, in his drunken state, had made advances. However, Yao Mowan refused to let him bear the burden alone. Recalling a secret passage in Pingle Palace from its renovation, she quickly used it to help Ye Junqing escape, then intentionally injured her own forehead.

As Ye Hongyi discovered her, Ye Junqing reappeared, claiming he had gone out for a walk to sober up and expressing relief that he hadn't been there when Yao Mowan was found, which would have led to an embarrassing misunderstanding. Ye Hongyi, now convinced this was a deliberate setup, suspected someone was trying to frame both Yao Mowan and Ye Junqing.

When Yao Mowan regained consciousness, she tearfully told Ye Hongyi that she had been knocked out by the maid as soon as she entered the room, remembering nothing else. Ye Hongyi, feeling pity, vowed she would never suffer injustice again and personally escorted her back to Guanju Palace. This turn of events significantly eased his suspicion towards both Yao Mowan and Ye Junqing. Back in his room, Ye Junqing was still tormented by Yao Mowan's earlier words.

He took a sachet from a box, reflecting on how Yao Mowan knew about the secret passage in Pingle Palace, which he had thought only a few knew about from its renovation. Meanwhile, Consort Shu approached Ye Junqing, pointedly noting his pain at seeing the woman he loved in the Emperor's arms, and reminded him of the promise he had made to her. After Ye Hongyi left Guanju Palace, Han Jinyi visited Yao Mowan.

He told her that Ye Junqing had anticipated her difficult life in the palace. Han Jinyi presented her with a jade flute, explaining that Ye Junqing had arranged for a hidden guard named Yin Xue, who was skilled in stealth and would appear whenever the flute was played. Upon blowing the flute, Yin Xue appeared, pledging her absolute loyalty to Yao Mowan. Astonished, Yao Mowan asked Yin Xue to disappear, which she promptly did.

Yao Mowan expressed her gratitude to Han Jinyi for this incredible assistance. Ling Feng reported to Ye Junqing that a significant quantity of gunpowder had gone missing from the army, including both ready-made explosives and raw materials like cinnabar and saltpeter. He explained that while the court had previously banned military gunpowder production, the Emperor had recently reinstated it due to ongoing conflicts. Ling Feng noted that under Ye Junqing's previous command, there had never been any such discrepancies.

However, since Governor Dou Shiming recently assumed control of the munitions reserve, this "big fiasco" had occurred. Ye Junqing, exasperated, recognized Dou Shiming's name once again. Ling Feng clarified that while this particular batch was not large, the cumulative amount from previous small, irregular losses was substantial and concerning. Ye Junqing expressed deep worry about the unknown destination and purpose of such a large quantity of black gunpowder.

He feared that reporting it to the Emperor would inadvertently implicate their loyal military brothers, playing directly into Dou Shiming's strategy to eliminate rivals within the army. Ben Lei cautioned Ye Junqing against interfering in military affairs, warning that it would only invite slander. However, Ling Feng reminded Ye Junqing of their comrades who longed for his return and whose fates depended on resolving this issue. Ye Junqing, realizing the urgency, decided he could not hesitate.

He and Ben Lei then concealed themselves to observe a gunpowder shipment leaving the military camp. Ye Junqing astutely noticed that the wheel tracks of the last cart were significantly deeper than the others, indicating it carried a heavier load and was likely the suspicious one. He decided to follow it to uncover its origin, method of transport, and ultimate destination.

Consort Chen confessed to Huangfu Jun Xiu her deep guilt over framing Yao Mowan and the subsequent execution of her maid, Dong Qing. Huangfu Jun Xiu advised her to simply feign ignorance. However, Yao Mowan then appeared, confronting Consort Chen and Huangfu Jun Xiu about their secret rendezvous, questioning their blatant disregard for the Emperor. She pressed Consort Chen to explain why she had tried to harm her, despite their supposed sisterly bond.

Huangfu Jun Xiu immediately took full responsibility, but Yao Mowan scoffed, warning him that he couldn't protect Consort Chen indefinitely and that a more brutal fate awaited her if she didn't reveal the truth. Huangfu Jun Xiu then protested that Yao Mowan would never betray them. He explained that Yao Su Luan had blackmailed Consort Chen with his sword ornament, which she had found after one of their secret meetings.

Yao Mowan realized that Yao Su Luan had cleverly exploited Consort Chen's vulnerability. She understood that if Yao Su Luan could use such methods against her, she would not hesitate to use even crueler tactics against Consort Chen to silence her. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Yao Mowan sought to protect Consort Chen and decided to turn the tables on Yao Su Luan.

To counteract Yao Su Luan's manipulation, Yao Mowan instructed Ting Yue to spread rumors throughout the palace that she and Consort Chen were now close friends. Upon hearing this, Yao Su Luan was furious. Her maid suggested that Yao Mowan and Consort Chen might be conspiring. Yao Su Luan, asserting that in the palace there were no permanent enemies or friends, sought out Consort Shu, believing she also harbored hatred for Yao Mowan.

Yao Su Luan presented Consort Shu with Huangfu Jun Xiu's sword ornament as proof of Consort Chen's illicit affair with him, implying that Yao Mowan was secretly facilitating their relationship and acting as the mastermind. Claiming her own feud with Yao Mowan prevented her from directly reporting it to the Emperor, Yao Su Luan attempted to manipulate Consort Shu into exposing the affair. Consort Shu, recognizing Yao Su Luan's intent to use her, questioned her motive.

Yao Su Luan countered that Yao Mowan was their common enemy, and by working together, they both stood to gain. Consort Shu accepted the sword ornament. The next day, as Ye Hongyi and Yao Su Luan were playing chess in a pavilion, Consort Shu arrived, bringing the sword ornament. Coincidentally, Yao Mowan arrived shortly after with some cooling soup for the Emperor.

Yao Mowan feigned curiosity about the sword ornament, prompting Consort Shu to reveal that it belonged to Huangfu Jun Xiu. Yao Mowan then fabricated a story: she and Consort Chen had been strolling in the Imperial Garden when a rabid dog attacked them. Huangfu Jun Xiu heroically intervened to protect them, and it was during this incident that he supposedly lost the sword ornament. Ting Yue then interjected, confirming she had seen that very dog in Consort Li's palace.

Ye Hongyi, recalling previous warnings to Yao Su Luan about her pet, became enraged, sternly reprimanding her for failing to control her "beast" that was terrorizing the palace. Yao Su Luan vehemently denied her dog, Xiao Qi, would ever bite, protesting that Yao Mowan's account was false and pleading with Consort Shu to corroborate her story.

However, Consort Shu, now aligned with Yao Mowan, confirmed Yao Mowan's version of events, stating she had witnessed the dog attack and subsequently found the sword ornament, which she was presenting to the Emperor to commend Huangfu Jun Xiu's bravery. Realizing she had been betrayed, Yao Su Luan angrily accused Yao Mowan and Consort Shu of conspiring against her. Ye Hongyi, however, dismissed her accusations, his trust in Yao Mowan evident.

In her agitation, Yao Su Luan grabbed Yao Mowan's hand, prompting Ye Hongyi to notice injuries on Yao Mowan's hand. Infuriated, he rebuked Yao Su Luan and ordered her to get rid of her pet within three days.

As Cai'er lay unconscious, Jun Xiu diligently watched over her. He explained to a groggy Cai'er that Consort Li, Yao Su Luan, was behind the recent scheme. Consort Wan, Yao Mowan, affirmed this, showing Cai'er a retrieved sword ornament as proof of her sincerity. Yao Mowan then advised Jun Xiu and Cai'er to avoid meeting for the time being, cautioning that Yao Su Luan would not easily give up and might exploit any misstep.

Both Jun Xiu and Cai'er thanked her for her wisdom. Meanwhile, Ye Junqing sought out Princess Han Yue, requesting to borrow special spirit bugs from her Southland region. He described how these unique insects, a male and a female, could detect saltpeter and gunpowder: the female feeds on these substances and emits signals, which the male then tracks. Princess Han Yue confirmed their existence but stated she had not brought them, as they were primarily used in battle.

Princess Chang Feng Duan Ting Ting, present at the meeting, playfully offered Ye Junqing the bugs if he would become her husband, prompting Princess Han Yue to chide her. Emphasizing the gravity of his mission, Ye Junqing implored Princess Chang Feng to assist. She relented, handing him the bugs with a jest about their return. Ye Junqing expressed his gratitude, promising a substantial reward.

As Ye Junqing departed, the female spirit bug unexpectedly latched onto Chief Eunuch An Bing Shan, whom Ye Junqing encountered outside the palace. This unusual occurrence immediately aroused Ye Junqing's suspicion regarding An Bing Shan's potential involvement in the missing gunpowder case. An Bing Shan was seen meeting privately with Yao Su Luan. He assured her that he had a potent remedy for the Emperor's current troubles.

Yao Su Luan, concerned for her dog Xiao Qi after the Emperor ordered its removal, asked An Bing Shan to ensure its safety. An Bing Shan confirmed he had temporarily arranged for the dog to be housed at Yao Residence. He then relayed Governor Dou Shiming's request for Yao Su Luan's full cooperation on a matter. Unbeknownst to them, Yin Xue was secretly listening.

She later reported to Yao Mowan that An Bing Shan was frequently meeting Consort Li and assisting her with significant affairs. Yao Mowan, recalling Yao Su Luan's repeated attempts to frame her and Ye Junqing, suspected An Bing Shan's complicity and influence over the Emperor. Yin Xue's mention of Governor Dou and phrases like "on the same boat" further solidified Yao Mowan's belief that An Bing Shan was connected to the powerful Dou family.

Realizing the depth of their ties, Yao Mowan decided to target An Bing Shan, hoping to expose and dismantle the entire Dou family. Ye Junqing covertly entered An Bing Shan's study but was ambushed by a group of black-clad assailants. Concurrently, Yao Mowan received an anonymous secret letter instructing her to go alone to the eastern side palace, or risk never seeing "this person" again. The words on the letter soon vanished.

Yin Xue identified a piece of fabric included with the letter as identical to Ye Junqing's clothing. Alarmed for Ye Junqing's safety, Yao Mowan disregarded Yin Xue's advice to wait or accompany her, rushing to the side palace alone. Upon arrival, Yao Mowan found an unconscious Ye Junqing and detected the pervasive scent of tranquilizing incense.

After she revived him, the man claiming to be Ye Junqing suffered from a throbbing headache and spoke affectionate words, even suggesting they leave the palace together. However, Yao Mowan noticed discrepancies in his attire, including a missing thumb ring and a flaw in his garment, confirming her suspicion that he was an impostor. She challenged him, demanding his true identity.

The impostor admitted his mission was to lure and eliminate her, claiming ignorance of the mastermind's identity and offering a secret letter as proof. Just as he lunged to attack, the real Ye Junqing burst in. He had pieced together the impersonation after a palace guard mentioned seeing two "Prince Sus" and hearing of An Bing Shan's movements toward the side palace. Ye Junqing wounded the impostor, who managed to escape.

Suddenly, the male spirit bug reacted violently, signaling the presence of gunpowder. Ye Junqing quickly pulled Yao Mowan away, but the ensuing explosion still knocked them unconscious. At Yao Residence, Dou Xiang Lan worried about the success of their plan, but Dou Shiming calmly reassured her. He revealed that he and An Bing Shan had meticulously orchestrated the scheme.

His "one stone, two birds" strategy aimed to both conceal the missing gunpowder and eliminate Yao Mowan and Ye Junqing, whom he considered nuisances. Yao Mowan's father, Yao Zhenting, overheard this conversation. Dou Shiming dragged him inside, where Dou Xiang Lan reminded Yao Zhenting of his daughter Yao Su Luan and how her brother was helping her become Empress. Yao Zhenting retorted bitterly that his greatest regret was marrying Dou Xiang Lan and forsaking his first wife.

Dou Shiming then threatened Yao Zhenting, reminding him of their shared dark past and warning that if the Dou family fell, Yao Zhenting would also face execution. Following the explosion, Yao Su Luan arrived at the side palace with her retinue, feigning concern and questioning why Yao Mowan and Ye Junqing were together. Yao Mowan, aware she was being framed, chose not to expose the setup.

When Emperor Ye Hongyi arrived, his anger flared at the sight of Yao Mowan and Ye Junqing together. Yao Mowan confessed to violating palace rules by secretly visiting the secluded side palace to mourn her sister, claiming she merely stumbled upon the explosion and was rescued by Ye Junqing. She feigned ignorance of Ye Junqing's presence. Yao Su Luan subtly hinted at a secret rendezvous, but Yao Mowan maintained her story of coming alone.

Ye Junqing, now recovered, candidly informed Ye Hongyi that he had been investigating the missing Shujing Camp gunpowder and had uncovered Dou Shiming and An Bing Shan as the culprits. He explained that he was tracking the gunpowder when the explosion occurred and saved Yao Mowan. An Bing Shan then emerged, appearing disheveled and injured. He claimed full responsibility for the explosion, stating he was secretly refining an elixir, the Revival Pill, for the Emperor to revive Yao Moxin.

He attributed the blast to an incorrect ratio of cinnabar, sulfur, and saltpeter—ingredients common to both alchemy and gunpowder. He pleaded for leniency, emphasizing his proximity to completing the elixir. Yao Mowan attempted to point out that An Bing Shan seemed relatively unharmed compared to Ye Junqing, but An Bing Shan insisted he had narrowly escaped.

Ye Hongyi, irked by Ye Junqing's unauthorized investigation into military affairs despite being stripped of his command, confined him to Pingle Palace to recuperate, also ensuring he remained under close watch. Although punishing An Bing Shan for his negligence, the Emperor accepted his explanation for the explosion. Later, An Bing Shan again approached Ye Hongyi, feigning deep remorse. He admitted to using military gunpowder to expedite the Revival Pill for Yao Moxin's awakening.

He subtly tried to poison Ye Hongyi's mind against Ye Junqing, implying insubordination. Yin Xue, overhearing this, reported it to Yao Mowan. Deeply concerned, Yao Mowan decided to visit Ye Junqing personally, with Yin Xue guiding her through a secret route to Pingle Palace. There, she found an unconscious Ye Junqing clutching a sachet, containing the inscription "Seems like only yesterday that we were holding hands."

Seeing this, Yao Mowan was overcome with sorrow, lamenting that she had seemingly betrayed his affection twice. Meanwhile, Consort Shu, renowned for her intelligence, surmised that Dou Shiming and An Bing Shan were the true masterminds behind the explosion, with Yao Su Luan's involvement. Her maid advised her to distance herself from Yao Mowan. However, Consort Shu viewed Yao Mowan as a crucial "chess piece" in her strategy to unite lesser powers against a greater foe. She coolly stated that Yao Mowan would be discarded whether her plan succeeded or failed. She then dispatched her maid, Cai Die, to ascertain Ye Junqing's condition.

Han Jinyi, returning from his investigation of An Bing Shan's alchemy room, informed Ye Junqing that the burner contained not medicine, but amalgamated gunpowder, with a clear fuse trace on the ground. Ye Junqing deduced that this was a trap set by An Bing Shan and Dou Shiming to cover up gunpowder smuggling and eliminate him and Yao Mowan. Soon after, a servant from Consort Shu arrived with healing medicine for Ye Junqing.

He instructed the servant to return the medicine, assuring them he was fine, and to convey to Consort Shu that he would fulfill his promise to her at any cost, but she shouldn't trouble herself with his injuries. Upon hearing this, Consort Shu wept, realizing Ye Junqing was determined to distance himself from her. She recalled a past conversation where Ye Junqing had vowed to give his life to save Yao Mowan.

Believing he owed her greatly for her efforts, Consort Shu was heartbroken and resolved to use any means necessary to make Ye Junqing hers, vowing he would not escape her or be with Yao Mowan. As Yao Mowan prepared for bed, Yao Su Luan visited, feigning concern and offering a calming remedy.

Their conversation was laden with veiled threats; Yao Mowan commented on Yao Su Luan's continuous "generosity," while Yao Su Luan warned her to be careful in her words and actions, lest she meet the same fate as Yao Moxin. Both spoke with polite smiles, but their words betrayed deep animosity, each testing the other's resolve.

Meanwhile, Duan Ting Ting complained about an odd smell from the pears she had brought back, which Princess Han Yue immediately recognized as the scent of black gunpowder. Duan Ting Ting explained she had acquired the fruit at Ping Fu Pier from three large boats, whose owner claimed they were transporting palace provisions. Princess Han Yue quickly realized the connection between the boats and the gunpowder and decided to inform Ye Junqing.

Duan Ting Ting eagerly volunteered to go in her stead. At Pingle Palace, Han Jinyi expressed his concern to Ye Junqing, urging him to leave the capital as he was trapped. Han Jinyi worried that both Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan's mutual care made them vulnerable to being exploited. Before Ye Junqing could inquire further, Duan Ting Ting burst in. She playfully flirted with Ye Junqing, asking him to kiss her in exchange for the information.

Irritated, Han Jinyi intervened, aggressively flirting back with Duan Ting Ting to extract information, though he was kicked for his trouble. Duan Ting Ting eventually revealed that the black gunpowder was hidden on three large boats at Ping Fu Pier. Acting on this intelligence, Han Jinyi ambushed the convoy transporting the black gunpowder. He successfully apprehended the lead escort, but a group of black-clad assailants suddenly appeared, silencing the captive.

Despite this setback, Han Jinyi managed to seize a large quantity of the illicit gunpowder. That night, Ye Hongyi sat beside Yao Moxin's body, drinking heavily. It was Yao Moxin's birthday, and he expressed his deep fear of losing her and his hope that An Bing Shan's Revival Pill would awaken her. Later, in a drunken stupor, he stumbled into Yao Mowan's room, mistaking her for Yao Moxin. He embraced her, attempting to force himself upon her.

Yao Mowan resisted, reminding him that she was Yao Mowan and that Yao Moxin was dead, along with their unborn son, Zhong'er, whose fate would surely break her heart if she were alive. Ye Hongyi grew angry at her rejection, reminding her of her role as a substitute. However, Yao Mowan, refusing to be merely Yao Moxin's shadow, boldly declared her desire for his unique affection. Ye Hongyi, struck by her honesty, acknowledged her courage.

He promised never to force her again and would wait until she willingly accepted her role as Yao Moxin's substitute, but he also reminded her that as emperor, there was nothing he desired that he could not obtain. He then stormed out of the room. Distraught, Yao Mowan stood alone in the courtyard. She reflected on how she had prepared herself for palace life, yet could not deceive her own heart.

Her true love was before her, yet separated by the vast palace walls, obscured by her quest for revenge. When she heard the palace bells, she realized it was her birthday—also Yao Moxin's—and lamented how much time had passed, and how things and people had changed. Still seeking comfort after the encounter with Yao Mowan, Ye Hongyi went to Yao Su Luan's chambers. He drank while watching her dance, and in his drunken haze, he saw Yao Moxin in her.

Unable to control his emotions, he caressed Yao Su Luan and carried her to bed, where they became intimate. Meanwhile, Ye Junqing and Han Jinyi continued their investigation. Ye Junqing theorized that the suspicious escorts transporting the gunpowder could not have dealt directly with Dou Shiming due to their identities, suggesting a middleman and a legitimate front in the capital.

Han Jinyi confirmed Ye Junqing's suspicions, explaining that the Lord Mayor was evasive and unwilling to investigate the dead escorts, claiming they were not locals and that missing persons inquiries would take too long. Ye Junqing proposed drawing portraits of the deceased and conducting private inquiries to find leads, prompting Han Jinyi to playfully complain about all the legwork he had to do.

Back in the palace, Yao Mowan noticed her personal servant, Xiao Xing Zi, was gone, replaced by an unfamiliar attendant. She learned that Xiao Xing Zi had, without a word, gone to serve Yao Su Luan. Yao Mowan calmly accepted this, instructing her maid, Ting Yue, to send Xiao Xing Zi his monthly wages, saying her palace didn't need disloyal servants.

Later, Dou Xiang Lan visited Yao Su Luan, urging her to continue taking fertility medicine to conceive a royal heir, which would secure her position even if Yao Mowan regained favor. Upon hearing that Yao Mowan was no longer favored, Dou Xiang Lan decided to personally confront her to avenge past grievances. Dou Xiang Lan intentionally dropped and shattered a jade bangle that had belonged to Mo Li, Yao Mowan's mother.

Enraged by this deliberate provocation and recalling her mother's injustices, Yao Mowan furiously slapped Dou Xiang Lan and retaliated by smashing the jade bangle on Dou Xiang Lan's wrist. Just then, Yao Su Luan entered and, citing Yao Mowan's disrespect towards her step-mother, punished her by ordering her to kneel in the Imperial Garden in the pouring rain, forbidding her to rise without her permission. Later, Ye Junqing found Yao Mowan kneeling in the rain and offered his umbrella.

However, Yao Mowan gently pushed him away, stating that their positions were now different and he should not involve himself. Ye Junqing left the umbrella with her and walked away, allowing the rain to soak him.

As heavy rain poured down, Yao Mowan knelt in the Imperial Garden, drenched. Ye Junqing approached, offering her an umbrella, but she refused it. From afar, Consort Shu, also known as Wang Qin Ruo, observed this interaction with a heavy heart. She recalled her childhood, where her strict father frequently scolded her and inflicted corporal punishment, determined to mold her into a refined lady fit to be a concubine.

Young Ye Junqing, her cousin, had comforted her during those times, catching fireflies to cheer her up and telling her she was the most beautiful. From that moment, Ye Junqing became the sole occupant of her heart. Consort Shu lamented that despite their deep connection, they were torn apart by the Emperor, forced into roles as concubine and official.

Now, seeing Ye Junqing enchanted by Yao Mowan and seemingly forgetting their shared history, Consort Shu declared she would wait no longer and that Ye Junqing must honor his past promises. She penned a passionate love letter to Ye Junqing and entrusted her maid, Cai Die, to deliver it to the Prince's residence. Meanwhile, Han Jinyi reported to Ye Junqing that most of the deceased from recent incidents were linked to the Zi Xuan Association.

Although this organization operated discreetly, making it difficult to identify the mastermind, Ye Junqing urged Han Jinyi to continue his thorough investigation. Later, Han Jinyi visited Guanju Palace, noting Yao Mowan's thinner appearance and the reduced number of servants, which she dismissed as normal palace adjustments. He then presented her with a letter he had intercepted from a black-clad figure outside Pingle Palace.

Yao Mowan identified it as a love letter from Consort Shu to Ye Junqing, expressing concern that such a discovery would severely worsen Ye Junqing's already difficult position. Han Jinyi remarked that Consort Shu, usually composed, tended to lose all reason when it came to Ye Junqing. Consort Shu, having received no word from Ye Junqing, grew impatient. She resolved to visit him personally at Pingle Palace and remind him of his promises.

Upon arriving, Consort Shu confronted Ye Junqing, questioning why he had disregarded her letter. Ye Junqing denied any knowledge of it and advised her to leave. Consort Shu accused him of being untrustworthy, confessed her long-standing love, and pleaded for him to take her away from the deep palace.

Reminding her of their respective statuses as an official and an imperial concubine, Ye Junqing firmly stated that he harbored no inappropriate feelings for her, having always viewed her as a sister. He also refuted her claim that he had designs on Yao Mowan. Consort Shu then invoked a past promise: that if she helped save Yao Mowan, he would grant her any request, even his life. She now demanded he take her away.

Ye Junqing reiterated his willingness to sacrifice his life for her but refused this specific request. Feigning resignation, she had Cai Die pour two cups of wine as a "farewell." Challenging his trust in her, she prompted him to drink, and Ye Junqing drank the wine without hesitation. Yin Xue quickly rushed to inform Yao Mowan about Consort Shu's visit. Instructing Ting Yue to safeguard Consort Shu's letter, Yao Mowan hurried to Pingle Palace.

There, they found Ye Junqing, disoriented by an aphrodisiac in the wine, embracing Consort Shu while mistaking her for Yao Mowan. Yin Xue promptly intervened, knocking them both unconscious. She identified the substance in the wine, worrying that its unreleased power could endanger Ye Junqing's life.

Yao Mowan, noticing that only Ye Junqing had been poisoned, instructed Yin Xue to return Consort Shu to her chambers and deliver her love letter to Prince Dun’s residence, ensuring her father would see it. Upon receiving the letter, Prince Dun ordered his servants to request Consort Shu’s return home the next morning, fabricating a story about his wife's critical illness. Left alone with the unconscious Ye Junqing, Yao Mowan removed her outer garments.

When Ye Junqing awoke, he found himself in nightclothes with Yao Mowan beside him and, realizing he had been drugged, assumed they had been intimate. To alleviate his guilt, Yao Mowan reassured him that nothing had happened, suggesting the drug's effect had passed. Internally, Yao Mowan questioned why Ye Junqing, despite caring for her, would rather lie to himself than acknowledge his true feelings.

Consort Shu awoke in her own bed, instantly deducing that Yao Mowan had ruined her plan and vowing revenge. Soon after, she was informed that the Emperor had approved her return to Prince Dun’s residence due to her mother's reported illness. Meanwhile, Ye Junqing was lost in thought, gazing at a sachet Yao Mowan had given him when Han Jinyi arrived. After jokingly misinterpreting the situation, Ye Junqing instructed him to thoroughly investigate the Zi Xuan Association's accounts.

At the palace, Yao Su Luan, now overseeing the harem's affairs, convened a meeting of the concubines to discuss the upcoming Mid-Year Banquet, distributing funds to win their favor. She explained an unwritten rule: the concubine with the most outstanding attire would be favored by the Emperor that night. Later, Yao Mowan discussed with Ting Yue her idea to stand out by wearing a replica of the late Empress Yao Moxin's famous Nine-Colored Phoenix Hairpin.

Yao Su Luan's maid overheard this. Knowing that wearing Yao Moxin's item would infuriate Emperor Ye Hongyi, Yao Su Luan secretly acquired the design from the Imperial Household Department, commissioned a replica, and had it delivered to Ting Yue, plotting for Yao Mowan's public humiliation. Princess Chang Feng, also known as Duan Ting Ting, prepared to return to Southland. Reluctant to leave, she visited Ye Junqing to say farewell.

He explained that he rejected her only to spare her the pain of unrequited love, a feeling he knew well. Understanding his unwavering devotion to Yao Mowan, she accepted his decision, and they shared a final hug before her departure from Chu. Just as she left, Han Jinyi arrived. After teasing Ye Junqing, he reported on his investigation: he had found a secret room at the Zi Xuan Association containing their account books.

The books revealed that despite claiming to trade medicinal herbs, the association's cash flow was hundreds of times greater than their bank records indicated. Ye Junqing concluded that it was a hub for the Dou family to launder money from the illegal gunpowder trade, and that the owner, Mr. Wang, was a mere pawn of Dou Shiming. At the Mid-Year Banquet, Yao Mowan appeared in a striking red dress, adorned with the Nine-Colored Phoenix Hairpin.

Emperor Ye Hongyi immediately recognized it as Yao Moxin's and flew into a rage, deeming Yao Mowan unworthy of wearing it. Yao Mowan feigned ignorance and begged for pardon. Yao Su Luan stepped in, pretending to be shocked while subtly interceding. Unmoved, the Emperor punished Yao Mowan by ordering her to be confined to Guanju Palace.

After the Emperor's departure, Yao Su Luan coldly reflected that a replacement would always remain a replacement, and any attempt to usurp the position of another would only lead to ruin.

Emperor Ye Hongyi found it suspicious that Yao Mowan had worn the late empress's hairpin and instructed Thousand Faces to closely monitor everyone close to her. To carry out Yao Mowan's plan, Ting Yue deliberately set fire to the hairpin design sketches in the courtyard, ensuring Thousand Faces would discover her. Caught, Ting Yue pleaded for her family's safety before revealing that Yao Su Luan had threatened her family's lives to coerce her into betraying Yao Mowan.

She explained that Yao Su Luan had used Cai Ying to deliver a letter from her father, warning her to obey or her siblings would be executed. Yao Su Luan had then ordered her to retrieve the original sketches of the Nine Phoenix Hairpin from the Imperial Household Department and ensure Yao Mowan wore a pre-made hairpin to provoke the Emperor's anger at the mid-year banquet.

Ye Hongyi recalled seeing Cai Ying giving something to Ting Yue that day, now realizing it was the threatening letter. Yao Su Luan vehemently denied the accusations, claiming she had merely taken the sketches to design a different style of hairpin. However, Eunuch Li from the Imperial Household Department confirmed that while Ting Yue had taken a copy, Yao Su Luan herself had taken the original sketches of the Nine Phoenix Hairpin.

With both human testimony and physical evidence, Yao Su Luan's deceit was exposed. Yao Mowan confronted her, accusing her of betraying their sisterly bond and manipulating the Emperor's feelings for the late empress. Enraged by Yao Su Luan's lack of virtue and disruption of the harem, Ye Hongyi stripped her of her Noble Consort title, demoted her to a concubine, and removed her administrative authority.

Yao Su Luan was led away by An Bing Shan, realizing she had been outmaneuvered by Yao Mowan. Seeing Ye Hongyi's remorse for misunderstanding her, Yao Mowan seized the opportunity to request a pardon for Ting Yue, explaining that despite her mistake, she was coerced and deserved leniency, recalling Yao Moxin's teaching about forgiveness. Ye Hongyi granted the pardon but warned Ting Yue against future misconduct, to which Ting Yue pledged her diligent service.

An Bing Shan later advised Yao Su Luan to control her temper in front of the Emperor. Desperate to regain favor, Yao Su Luan offered her personal maid, Cai Ying, to An Bing Shan, knowing he desired her. Later, during his night patrol, Liu Xing heard Cai Ying's cries for help and discovered An Bing Shan attempting to assault her. Liu Xing intervened and tried to lead Cai Ying away to report An Bing Shan.

An Bing Shan pleaded with Liu Xing not to, promising compensation and swearing it wouldn't happen again, but Liu Xing refused to back down, determined to uphold Cai Ying's dignity. In a fit of rage, An Bing Shan stabbed Liu Xing. Searching for Liu Xing at Yao Mowan's request, Ting Yue and other servants found him gravely wounded near a dry well.

With his last breaths, Liu Xing conveyed his loyalty to Yao Mowan, lamenting that he could no longer care for her. Overcome with guilt and sorrow, Yao Mowan blamed her own incompetence and indecisiveness for Liu Xing's tragic death, vowing to seek justice for him. That night, a heartbroken Yao Mowan played a melancholic flute tune in her courtyard. The music, rich with emotion, caught Ye Hongyi's attention.

Drawn to Guanju Palace, he recognized the melody as his favorite, one Yao Moxin used to play for him. He recalled how Yao Moxin played that very song during a chaotic period when he was leading his troops. The music had emboldened his soldiers, inspiring them to fight against rebels and return home, effectively saving the Kingdom of Chu from collapse. Ye Hongyi lamented Yao Moxin's unfortunate end, blaming his own powerlessness.

Yao Mowan suggested the tune also carried a meaning of "calling the sovereign back." When Ye Hongyi asked if she was now "willingly consenting," Yao Mowan affirmed her acceptance. Ye Hongyi promised to bestow upon her double the honor and glory that Yao Moxin had once enjoyed. Internally, Yao Mowan acknowledged that while her and her sister's memories had become one, the deep palace had destroyed everything they loved. With everything lost, only revenge remained.

She resolved that to gain power in the harem, she must rely on the Emperor's favor, even if it meant eternal damnation, to reach the pinnacle of power and make those who wronged them pay a bloody price. The next day, Ye Hongyi issued an imperial edict, promoting Yao Mowan to Imperial Noble Consort and entrusting her with the temporary leadership of the Six Palaces, a position akin to a deputy empress, with instructions to maintain peace and produce heirs.

As she accepted the imperial edict from An Bing Shan, Yao Mowan leaned in and whispered, "You will surely die by my hands," causing An Bing Shan to visibly recoil in fear. Meanwhile, Han Jinyi and Ben Lei cornered Mr. Wang, the owner of Zi Xuan Association. After threatening him with a potent "one-day death powder," Mr. Wang, fearing for his life, confessed that Dou Shiming was the mastermind behind illicit gunpowder trafficking.

He explained that Dou Shiming would pay high prices for the transportation of goods, and the profits were laundered by melting and recasting the gold to avoid official scrutiny, before being shipped to Dou Shiming's territory. He revealed that the next shipment was scheduled in two days via water transport. Han Jinyi gave him an antidote, warning him of severe consequences if he revealed their interrogation to Dou Shiming.

Separately, Cai Ying, deeply scarred by her ordeal, sought to end her life by drinking poison near a dry well, vowing to haunt Yao Su Luan and An Bing Shan even in death. However, Yin Xue intervened, saving her and bringing her to Guanju Palace. There, Yao Mowan told Cai Ying that her life, bought by Liu Xing's sacrifice, was not hers to discard.

She urged Cai Ying to live for revenge and use the information she possessed as Concubine Li's former handmaiden to bring the culprits to justice. At the imperial court, Grandmaster Jue Chen made a rare appearance, having retired to the countryside due to illness after the late emperor's passing. Ye Hongyi subtly questioned his long absence, but Jue Chen affirmed his loyalty, praising the Emperor's loyal officials, including An Bing Shan.

Jue Chen explained that the late emperor had tasked him with monitoring the Kingdom of Chu's destiny. He reported observing a celestial anomaly: the Aries Star was threatening the emperor star, signifying that a powerful Northern noble family might be secretly conspiring against the country and imperiling the imperial authority.

An Bing Shan, visibly nervous, cautioned Jue Chen to speak carefully, but the Grandmaster insisted on the truth of his divinations, recalling how Empress Yao Moxin had once saved him from An Bing Shan's treacherous scheme. Later, while strolling in the Imperial Garden, Yao Mowan encountered Ye Hongyi and Jue Chen. Ye Hongyi offered to accompany her on future walks. Yao Mowan, curious, asked Jue Chen how he recognized her, never having met.

Jue Chen explained her strong resemblance to the late Empress Yao Moxin, who had once shown him great kindness, and that he had heard of Yao Moxin's sister entering the palace. He then revealed he had foreseen good fortune for Yao Mowan, predicting that her residence, Guanju Palace, located in the auspicious southeast direction, would soon manifest a great omen. Shortly after, Ting Yue rushed in, reporting a sudden, persistent thick fog in Guanju Palace's backyard.

Intrigued, Ye Hongyi ordered everyone to Guanju Palace. Upon arrival, Yao Mowan noticed her dog bite mark, faintly visible that morning, had completely vanished, and she felt a surge of strength, suggesting it might be the auspicious sign Jue Chen foretold. Jue Chen, sensing an extraordinary presence beneath the fog, instructed the servants to dig carefully to avoid harming the omen. To everyone's astonishment, they unearthed a massive lingzhi.

Jue Chen declared this "purple light" lingzhi an incredibly auspicious sign for the Kingdom of Chu, though he also mentioned that revealing such heavenly secrets would shorten his own life. Yao Mowan then requested that the lingzhi be moved to the late empress's palace, believing it to be a blessing from her sister's spirit. Ye Hongyi readily agreed, ordering An Bing Shan to generously reward Jue Chen for his foresight.

After Han Jinyi uncovered Dou Shiming's gunpowder trafficking and money laundering scheme, Emperor Ye Hongyi learned of the findings. Concerned for Han Jinyi's safety and unwilling to let him face the danger of intercepting the shipment alone, the Emperor decided to personally investigate the matter. In her palace, Yao Mowan prayed for Emperor Ye Hongyi's good health and the peace and prosperity of the Kingdom of Chu, acknowledging her sister's continued blessings from the heavens.

The grandmaster Jue Chen was summoned by Emperor Ye Hongyi to understand why the lingzhi in the palace had withered overnight. Jue Chen divined that malicious and filthy matter had tainted the lingzhi, causing its rapid decline. When pressed for the source, Jue Chen’s divination pointed to the palace's northwest corner, specifically Eunuch An Bing Shan's alchemy room. Ye Hongyi immediately ordered Prince Ye Junqing to investigate the matter.

Ye Junqing arrived at the alchemy room and found numerous fake medicinal herbs. He learned that Eunuch Liu and Eunuch Li, who were responsible for the herbs, had already been taken to the imperial prison. Ye Junqing then went to the prison where An Bing Shan was brutally interrogating the two eunuchs. Ye Junqing confronted An Bing Shan about the switched herbs in the alchemy room.

An Bing Shan claimed he had discovered the fraud himself and quickly arrested the culprits. Emperor Ye Hongyi soon arrived, questioning An Bing Shan about the integrity of his medicinal pills and mentioning Jue Chen's ominous predictions. An Bing Shan vehemently denied any wrongdoing, dismissing Jue Chen as a "wicked man" and suggesting that Jue Chen had orchestrated the lingzhi's appearance.

Ye Hongyi countered this, revealing that a botanist who had served in the palace for decades confirmed the lingzhi was ancient and had no connection to Jue Chen. Despite An Bing Shan's claims of diligently testing every pill himself, Ye Hongyi found his excuses flimsy. Blaming An Bing Shan for the blunder in the alchemy room, Ye Hongyi stripped him of a year's salary and sentenced him to twenty lashes.

Later, Yao Su Luan visited An Bing Shan, expressing superficial concern for his injuries. She reminded him that Jue Chen's presence in the palace signaled trouble for them. With the alchemy room's operations halted, she urged him to quickly cover up his misdeeds. An Bing Shan admitted that many palace maids used for pill testing were "practically half dead," and there were quite a number of them.

Yao Su Luan, reiterating her earlier warnings about the dangers of excessive killing, insisted that he handle these "disasters" without leaving any trace. Her maid, Cai Ying, overheard their conversation and was visibly shaken. That night, An Bing Shan ordered his subordinates to dispose of the maids' bodies discreetly. However, Ye Junqing ambushed them as they were throwing the bodies into a dry well. Ye Junqing ordered a coroner to perform autopsies.

The coroner later confirmed that all the palace maids had died from poison in the pills, and An Bing Shan had meticulously recorded their names and the dosages they were given. Ye Junqing reported to Ye Hongyi that the pills were still experimental and had only been tested on these maids. Enraged by An Bing Shan's "disregard for human life" and "cruelty," Ye Hongyi contemplated the case.

Ye Junqing suggested that An Bing Shan's removal was a "silver lining" and praised Jue Chen's foresight for preventing more deaths. He also mentioned that he had given the deceased maids a proper burial outside the palace. Ye Junqing recommended Li Guofu, the Minister of the Supreme Court, to oversee the case. However, Ye Hongyi declined, citing Li Guofu's heavy workload, and instead appointed Zhang Haolin, known for his fairness, to lead the investigation.

Recognizing Jue Chen's continuous good work, Ye Hongyi officially appointed him as the new Imperial Grandmaster of the Kingdom of Chu. Yao Mowan, dressed in a black robe, entered the imperial prison to interrogate An Bing Shan. She dismissed Zhang Haolin, instructing him to deny her presence there. An Bing Shan, fearing his impending death, initially tried to shift the blame to the Dous. Yao Mowan challenged him, bringing up the deaths of Liu Xing and the poisoned palace maids.

An Bing Shan admitted his part but refused to shoulder all the blame, resolving to "pull someone down with him." He confessed that Dou Shiming had supplied him with contraband military gunpowder for pill-making, but most of it was illegally sold for profit. Dou Shiming laundered the money through an antique business and recorded all transactions and names in a ledger. Yao Mowan quickly deduced An Bing Shan's role in connecting Dou Shiming with various officials to facilitate the smuggling.

An Bing Shan confirmed he had introduced Dou Shiming to numerous officials, including Huang Yu Cheng, the water transport head in the north, Han Chao, the person in charge of the canals in the south, and dozens of other local waterway officials. Yao Mowan, furious at such rampant corruption, instructed Zhang Haolin, who had discreetly re-entered to record the confession, to keep her involvement a secret.

After Zhang Haolin left, Yao Mowan continued her interrogation, asking about the monkshood gum in Yao Moxin's prenatal medicine, which she knew could cause a miscarriage. An Bing Shan, trembling, claimed he was "only carrying out the order," implying the Emperor's command. He explained Ye Hongyi's motivations: the late Empress Yao Moxin's strong persona and her repeated interference in state affairs, coupled with persistent rumors of her flirtatious relationship with Prince Ye Junqing.

A flashback showed Ye Hongyi bestowing a sword upon Ye Junqing before his departure for battle. During a feast, Ye Junqing presented Yao Moxin with a Guanyin statue for their unborn "Zhong'er," expressing his concern. Dou Shiming subtly fanned the flames of suspicion by implying an illicit relationship between Ye Junqing and the empress.

Ye Hongyi, deeply troubled by the rumors and unwilling to have a royal heir "born with criticism," ordered An Bing Shan to discreetly add monkshood gum to Yao Moxin's prenatal medicine to induce a miscarriage. He strictly instructed An Bing Shan not to harm her body, to ensure she received the best medicinal herbs afterwards, and expressed his sole desire for her to remain his empress.

Hearing this, Yao Mowan's suspicions were confirmed, and she reflected on the "wrongful love of the past" that would be "repaid in this life." Meanwhile, Yao Su Luan, now Concubine Li, went to offer Ye Hongyi some peppermint tea. She had arrived just as Zhang Haolin presented An Bing Shan's confession to the Emperor. Ye Hongyi, upon reading the confession, was enraged and immediately ordered Zhang Haolin to investigate the matter thoroughly.

Though Yao Su Luan made her departure, she had overheard enough to realize the gravity of the situation. At the Yao Residence, Dou Shiming knew his escape was futile. He quickly instructed his sister, Dou Xiang Lan, to hide his ledger, believing that An Bing Shan would surely confess under torture.

He explained that the ledger was a "double-edged sword" – a "lifesaver" that would compel his corrupt allies to protect him, or could be used as leverage for clemency with the Emperor if all else failed. He urged Dou Xiang Lan to hide it securely. Soon after, Zhang Haolin arrived at the Yao Residence with soldiers to search for evidence. Dou Shiming, feigning innocence, remained calm, proclaiming his righteousness and inviting them to search.

Despite a thorough search, Zhang Haolin found nothing and had to report back to Ye Hongyi empty-handed, stating that Dou Shiming vehemently denied the charges and claimed An Bing Shan's accusation was pure defamation. While Zhang Haolin still believed An Bing Shan due to Dou Shiming's notorious corruption and the specific details in the confession, he lacked concrete physical evidence. As Ye Hongyi fretted over the lack of conclusive evidence, Ye Junqing arrived, presenting a box full of gold.

He explained that this was tangible proof of the Dous' illicit gunpowder smuggling. Ye Junqing elaborated that after the previous gunpowder incident, he had continued his investigation, discovering the Zi Xuan Association, which Dou Shiming used to launder money and transport gunpowder. Dou Shiming converted the illicit funds into gold, melted it down to remove any identifying marks, and then shipped it back to his territory by boat.

Ye Hongyi, instead of being pleased, grew wary of Ye Junqing's ability to uncover such a major case while confined to the palace. Ye Junqing humbly apologized for acting without imperial decree and accepted any punishment. He urged Ye Hongyi to thoroughly investigate the gunpowder smuggling and the wider corruption among high-ranking officials. Zhang Haolin offered to assist Ye Junqing in the investigation. However, Ye Hongyi, feeling threatened by Ye Junqing's efficiency, chose a different path.

He ignored the offer for them to collaborate, instead summoning Qian Mian. He then declared that Zhang Haolin would preside over the case, with Qian Mian assisting, and ordered Dou Shiming's immediate arrest. Ye Hongyi then dismissed Ye Junqing, assuring him that the case would be handled properly and he should rest.

Knowing that the ledger was the definitive piece of evidence, Ye Junqing instructed Han Jinyi to infiltrate the Yao Residence and retrieve it for Zhang Haolin, emphasizing that this would ensure Dou Shiming's inescapable demise. Han Jinyi successfully located the hidden ledger. Soon after, Dou Shiming and An Bing Shan were brought before the public for execution. The imperial edict declared them guilty of smuggling gunpowder, colluding with foreign nations, treason, and corruption, sentencing them to immediate death.

Dou Shiming attempted a last-ditch effort to save himself, claiming he possessed a ledger containing a list of many high-ranking corrupt officials, and urged Ye Hongyi to review it before making a final decision. In response, Ye Hongyi produced the very ledger Han Jinyi had found, signaling that Dou Shiming's last desperate move was futile. With a stern command, Ye Hongyi ordered their immediate execution. Dou Shiming and An Bing Shan were beheaded.

After the executions, Ye Hongyi addressed the court, acknowledging that the ledger implicated many trusted officials. He expressed concern that a full investigation would lead to widespread fear, distrust, infighting, and instability within the Kingdom of Chu, ultimately harming the empire. Therefore, he declared that he would not read the list, allowing all involved officials to "breathe a sigh of relief." He warned, however, that any future acts of rebellion or corruption would be met with "even harsher punishments." With that, Ye Hongyi threw the ledger into a brazier, burning the evidence of widespread corruption and choosing stability over complete eradication.

Ye Junqing reflected on the intricacies of imperial power tactics, noting how easily they could be used to gain support. Han Jinyi acknowledged Ye Junqing's understanding but observed that he disdained using such methods himself, calling him the only one in Chu's court who was involved in political affairs yet not political, wise yet not worldly wise. Han Jinyi then showed Ye Junqing a marked item he found in an account book.

The symbol triggered a memory for Ye Junqing, and he abruptly left, leaving Han Jinyi wondering about his destination. Meanwhile, Yao Mowan, embodying Yao Moxin, summoned Dou Xiang Lan to Guanju Palace. She began by expressing feigned sympathy for Dou Shiming's downfall, subtly pointing out Dou Xiang Lan's good fortune in not being implicated. Dou Xiang Lan, however, saw through the pretense, accusing Yao Mowan of cat-and-mouse tactics and wanting to humiliate her.

Yao Mowan confirmed this, recalling how Dou Xiang Lan once boasted about the powerful Dou family and Yao Su Luan's impending role as empress, questioning if Dou Xiang Lan now felt she was a worthy rival. Dou Xiang Lan blamed Yao Mowan for the Dou family's misery and vowed to make her pay a thousandfold. Yao Mowan responded with authority, stating that the Dou family deserved their fate and that the Emperor was wise.

She asserted her own powerful position and challenged Dou Xiang Lan's ability to harm her now that the Dou family no longer backed her. Dou Xiang Lan retorted that Yao Mowan's status as vice-empress would not last, bringing up the rumors of Yao Moxin's involvement with Prince Su and accusing Yao Mowan of being even worse, suggesting the Emperor would not forgive her. She then disparaged both sisters as being born of a "wench."

Yao Mowan then shifted the conversation to Yao Moxin's pregnancy medicine, asking Dou Xiang Lan if she remembered what was added. She revealed her knowledge of the "Suqingfeng Herb," which was not native to Chu, but secretly brought from Shu by Dou Shiming, then given to Dou Xiang Lan, who in turn gave it to Consort Li to add to Yao Moxin's medicine. Dou Xiang Lan scoffed, demanding evidence for what she called mere assumptions.

Yao Mowan's voice intensified as she vowed to make them pay with their blood for her mother and her unborn child. Dou Xiang Lan was stunned by the mention of a child, suddenly realizing that the person before her was not Yao Mowan but Yao Moxin. Terrified, she collapsed, repeatedly denying it was possible but then confirming it to herself in horror.

Yao Su Luan arrived at that moment, saw her mother on the floor, and angrily confronted the woman she believed to be Yao Moxin, demanding to know what she had done. Yao Mowan (as Yao Moxin) retorted that she should be asking what they had done to her sister and mother, declaring it was time to settle the score.

Dou Xiang Lan, in a desperate plea for her daughter, begged for forgiveness and for Yao Su Luan's life, insisting her daughter was young and innocent. Yao Mowan (as Yao Moxin) declared it was too late and merely the beginning. She spoke of the three lives lost – her unborn child Zhong'er, her mother, and her sister – and swore to exact blood for blood.

Dou Xiang Lan, desperate, took responsibility for all deeds and begged for Yao Su Luan's life, then suddenly charged at a table, striking her head and taking her own life. Yao Su Luan, witnessing her mother's horrific death, fainted from shock. A physician examined Yao Su Luan and confirmed she was pregnant, attributing her fainting to the shock. Upon hearing this, Ye Hongyi softened and ordered that Yao Su Luan be well cared for.

In the courtyard, Yao Mowan sat alone, melancholic. Ting Yue tried to comfort her, pointing out that the revenge for Liu Xing and Mo Li had been accomplished, but Yao Mowan still seemed unhappy. Yao Mowan confided that three others involved in her sister's death had yet to be punished.

Although she felt a pang of reluctance to harm Yao Su Luan now that she was carrying a child, she knew that once this path of revenge had begun, there was no turning back. She was certain that Yao Su Luan would eventually seek revenge for Dou Xiang Lan's death, leaving her no choice but to fight. Yao Su Luan eventually woke, devastated by her mother's death and unable to believe it.

Cai Ying urged her to rest for the sake of her pregnancy. Recalling her mother's lifelong ambition for her to become the empress and restore the family's dignity, Yao Su Luan resolved to leverage her imperial pregnancy to reclaim her status and make Yao Mowan pay. She prayed to Buddha for the protection of her mother's soul, the safe birth of her child, and continued imperial favor, promising to perform good deeds.

Ye Hongyi visited Yao Su Luan, bringing precious herbs for her health and expressing his hope that she would bear him a prince. Yao Su Luan feigned fragility, expressing her deep grief over her mother's death in Guanju Palace and her fear that her sorrow would harm the unborn child. She lamented that her mother had died with injustice and no one would seek justice for her.

Ye Hongyi comforted her, promising more calming tonics and urging her to protect his child. He then revealed that the child was conceived on Yao Moxin's birthday, suggesting a profound connection between the baby and the late empress.

Yao Mowan, later informed by Ting Yue of Ye Hongyi's renewed interest in Yao Su Luan's child due to its connection to Yao Moxin's birthday, expressed her continued sorrow for her sister, Mo Xin, who died young with her unborn child, Zhong'er, before they could even experience the world, while the true culprits remained unpunished.

Ye Junqing, recalling Yao Mowan's intense conversation with Dou Xiang Lan and her unusual behavior after encountering Ban Xia in prison, realized that there was more to Yao Moxin's death. He went to the prison to find Ban Xia, who was still traumatized, muttering about "bad guys" and how the empress was dead, with Lady Li merely a scapegoat.

Ban Xia also revealed that "Lady Mo Wan is coming to the imperial palace to avenge you," confirming Ye Junqing's growing suspicions about Yao Mowan's true purpose in entering the palace. Ye Junqing then confronted Han Jinyi, demanding to know if he had long been aware of the hidden circumstances of Yao Moxin's death and Yao Mowan's mission for revenge. Han Jinyi, initially trying to avoid the conversation, finally admitted that he knew.

He explained that Yao Mowan deeply loved Ye Junqing and deliberately kept him in the dark to protect him from the dangers and treacherous hearts of the imperial palace, choosing to bear the burden alone. Ye Junqing was distraught, chastising himself for his ignorance and inability to protect his beloved. Han Jinyi advised him to pretend he knew nothing, as it was what Yao Mowan would want and would also protect him in the perilous palace.

Yao Su Luan continued to suffer from intense nightmares, haunted by visions of Yao Moxin as a vengeful spirit, coming for her unborn child. Her health visibly deteriorated, and the calming medicines prescribed by the imperial physicians had no effect, leaving her visibly haggard. Yao Mowan visited Yao Su Luan, who tried to dismiss her, saying she had her own plans and did not need Yao Mowan's concern.

Yao Mowan then subtly unnerved Yao Su Luan by mentioning that as sisters, she and the late empress shared a spiritual connection, and Mo Xin had been visiting her in dreams, urging her to care for Yao Su Luan's baby. Yao Su Luan, visibly shaken and attributing her nightmares to being out of sorts, quickly ended the visit, while Yao Mowan hinted that her nightmares might stem from a guilty conscience. Later, Pingle Palace was set on fire.

Ye Junqing, deep in sleep, was fortunately roused by a diligent eunuch and narrowly escaped. Ye Hongyi visited him, noting the smoke inhalation and ordering lung-clearing powder. He remarked on the intentional nature of the fire and Ye Junqing's vulnerability despite his usual caution. Ye Junqing admitted his carelessness and expressed surprise that someone in the palace would want his life.

Ye Hongyi attributed the incident to lingering remnants of the Dou family, promising heightened security around the palace and advising Ye Junqing to recuperate there. Meanwhile, Consort Shu, still confined to Prince Dun's residence, raged against Yao Mowan, whom she blamed for her misfortunes, vowing to kill her. Her maid urged her to let go of her anger, but Consort Shu refused to live like a "walking dead."

She asserted that Ye Junqing was now in danger due to the elimination of the Dou family and the Emperor's growing suspicion towards him. Consort Shu brandished a knife, threatening her father, Prince Dun, that she would die if he did not send her back to the palace.

Prince Dun warned her of the perilous situation in the palace, including the Emperor's intent to kill Ye Junqing, but Consort Shu was resolute, declaring her intention to defy fate and choose her own path. Fearing for his daughter's life, Prince Dun reluctantly agreed to let her return, and she departed, telling him to consider her as no longer his daughter. Yao Mowan found Ye Junqing, urging him to leave the palace immediately due to the Emperor's murderous intent.

Ye Junqing refused to leave without her and revealed that he now knew her true purpose in entering the palace was for revenge. Yao Mowan refused to abandon her mission when she was so close to success, insisting her revenge was a personal matter and that she would not implicate him or shame her mother's memory by giving up.

Vowing not to leave her alone, Ye Junqing promised to stand by her side and asked her to wait for him to plan their departure from the capital. As Yao Mowan turned to leave, Ye Junqing declared that from that moment on, he would follow her through any peril and never allow her to abandon him again. From atop a city wall, Consort Shu overheard their conversation, further fueling her intense hatred for Yao Mowan.

Consort Li, Yao Su Luan, had been pregnant with the emperor’s child for three months, and His Majesty Ye Hongyi was delighted. He tasked Noble Consort Yao Mowan with organizing a celebration feast. However, Consort Li was clearly exhausted and unwell. Her handmaiden, Cai Ying, reported that Consort Li had been suffering from sleeplessness and a poor appetite since becoming pregnant, with no improvement.

Noticing this, Yao Mowan instructed Ting Yue to send a message to the Household Department to assign eunuchs and maids with experience in pregnancy care to look after Consort Li. Before Ting Yue could carry out the order, Consort Shu intervened, cautioning that pregnancy care was a serious matter and servants should be chosen carefully.

She subtly suggested that if anything went wrong due to carelessly chosen help, it would be dire, reminding everyone of the tragic fate of the late empress. Consort Shu advised Consort Li to personally select her attendants. At the mention of the late empress, Consort Li became visibly agitated. She suddenly erupted, shouting, "Don't hurt my baby! Don't hurt my baby!" then violently grabbed Yao Mowan by the throat, startling everyone. Fortunately, other attendants quickly pulled her away.

Consort Li, regaining some composure, apologized, claiming she didn't know what came over her. Consort Shu, observing the scene, remarked that Consort Li might be "afraid of something." Yao Mowan, however, calmly dismissed it as pregnancy-induced anxiety and sent Consort Li back to rest with Cai Ying. Later, Cai Die informed Consort Shu about a rumor circulating in the palace: Consort Li’s anxiety stemmed from her baby being tormented by hateful spirits, a result of past misdeeds.

Consort Shu dismissed the "hateful souls" as mere folklore but recognized that Consort Li’s distress was an opportunity. She pondered that if anything happened to the royal heir, Yao Mowan, as the Noble Consort, would be held responsible. Cai Die then mentioned the peculiar detail that Consort Li had conceived on the late empress’s birthday. This immediately clicked with Consort Shu, who understood why His Majesty was so protective of this child, given his deep affection for the late empress.

Meanwhile, Ting Yue breathlessly reported to Yao Mowan that Prince Su Ye Junqing’s residence had been broken into again. The thieves didn't steal valuables but seemed to target letters in Prince Su’s study. Yao Mowan noted that Yin Xue had also reported this. When asked how she knew, Ting Yue mentioned it was widely discussed in the city and palace, with people speculating that the emperor was secretly trying to undermine Prince Su.

Yao Mowan, seeing through Ting Yue's vague answers, deduced she had been secretly meeting Ben Lei, a guard under Prince Su, and warned her to be careful. Back in her chambers, Consort Li found solace only when Cai Ying combed her hair. She told Cai Ying she felt "truly at ease" during these moments, yet Cai Ying's eyes held a deep, unexpressed resentment. Elsewhere, Yao Mowan was inspecting a beautifully crafted jade ruyi scepter she intended to gift Consort Li.

Consort Shu arrived, ostensibly to apologize for her earlier conduct, acknowledging Yao Mowan's good intentions. Upon seeing the ruyi, Consort Shu suggested it would be more auspicious if paired with a qilin wooden base, symbolizing "qilin bringing children" and endless blessings. She offered an extra qilin wooden base from her own palace.

Sensing something amiss despite not fully grasping Consort Shu’s intentions, Yao Mowan discreetly instructed Ting Yue to order the Household Department to repaint their existing qilin wooden base with a fresh coat of varnish, to prevent any potential tampering or switching. That night, as Ye Junqing slept, a masked assailant crept into his chambers. Just as the attacker was about to strike, Lord Thousand Faces appeared, intercepting the intruder. A fierce battle ensued, with both demonstrating formidable martial arts skills.

Suddenly, a second masked figure emerged, scattering a cloud of white powder that obscured Lord Thousand Faces' vision. In the confusion, Ye Junqing restrained Lord Thousand Faces from behind. Mistaking Ye Junqing for an enemy, Lord Thousand Faces inadvertently stabbed him. Imperial guards, rushing in at the sound of the commotion, witnessed this, further solidifying the rumors that the Emperor was plotting to eliminate Prince Su. The entire "assassination" was a carefully orchestrated ruse by Ye Junqing and Han Jinyi.

Yin Xue later confirmed to Yao Mowan that Han Jinyi had been safely escorted out of the palace. Yao Mowan reflected on the recent fire at Pingle Palace and the thefts at Prince Su’s residence, realizing they were all part of Ye Junqing’s plan to create a false impression that his life was in danger. His goal was to pressure Ye Hongyi into releasing him from the palace.

Indeed, Ye Hongyi was deeply distressed by the public perception that he was attempting to harm his brother. Fearing the infamy of being accused of fratricide, he reluctantly agreed to let Ye Junqing leave the palace. Meanwhile, Consort Li sought out Consort Shu, hoping to form an alliance against Yao Mowan, who she felt threatened her position despite her pregnancy. Consort Shu, however, scoffed at the idea of aiding Consort Li, reminding her of her past disrespect.

She dismissed Consort Li's concerns about Yao Mowan, cryptically stating she had her own "ways" and advised Consort Li to focus on her own well-being and the safety of the royal heir. After Consort Li left, Consort Shu instructed Cai Die to retrieve a wooden base she had previously prepared. Knowing Yao Mowan's shrewdness, Consort Shu anticipated that Yao Mowan would procure another qilin wooden base from the Household Department.

She ordered Cai Die to secretly swap the Household Department's newly varnished qilin wooden base with one she had soaked in jimsonweed poison, aiming to frame Yao Mowan. At the celebration banquet, Ye Hongyi congratulated Consort Li and, as a sign of favor, granted her Yongfu Palace as her new residence. During the festivities, Consort Li suddenly felt dizzy and asked for permission to return to her chambers to change into looser clothes.

Consort Shu, feigning concern, offered to accompany her, claiming she feared the servants might be clumsy. In Consort Li’s chambers, Consort Shu seized the opportunity to further provoke her, suggesting that Consort Li's absence would allow Yao Mowan to gain more favor. She reminded Consort Li that Yao Mo Xin was trying to harm her unborn child, urging her not to "sit and wait" but to fight for her baby’s survival.

Consort Li, now in a state of mental distress, declared her intention to kill Yao Mo Xin. Consort Shu then escorted her back to the banquet hall, whispering words of incitement in her ear. Consort Li lunged at Yao Mowan, screaming, "You wicked woman! You wish to harm my child! I’ll kill you!" In the ensuing struggle, Consort Li collapsed, clutching her abdomen in severe pain. An imperial physician quickly diagnosed Consort Li as having been poisoned.

He explained that a combination of musk, found in her chambers, and jimsonweed from the qilin wooden base had caused her mental confusion and hallucinations. Eunuch Li confirmed that the wooden base was indeed part of the gift package Yao Mowan had sent. Yao Mowan immediately clarified that while the ruyi scepter was hers, the qilin wooden base had been offered by Consort Shu.

Consort Shu, attempting to deflect the blame, insisted that Yao Mowan had deliberately chosen to procure another wooden base from the Household Department, implying sinister intentions. Yao Mowan, however, exposed Consort Shu's scheme, revealing that she had ordered a fresh coat of varnish on the Household Department's wooden base to prevent tampering, a detail that Eunuch Li corroborated. Consort Shu adamantly denied ever touching the Household Department's wooden base.

To prove her innocence, Yao Mowan requested a bowl of litmus water, explaining that the varnish used on the Household Department's base would turn the water red upon contact. Yao Mowan and Consort Shu both dipped their hands, and the water remained clear. However, when Consort Shu's personal maid, Cai Die, dipped her hands, the water immediately turned red, exposing Consort Shu's plot.

Enraged, Ye Hongyi denounced Consort Shu for her wicked actions, especially for attempting to harm his unborn child. Cai Die tried to take full responsibility, but the emperor was unconvinced. Consort Shu, still unrepentant, accused Yao Mowan of framing her to eliminate rivals and seize control of the harem. As Ye Hongyi ordered Lord Thousand Faces to arrest her, Consort Shu, in a final act of defiance, pulled out a hairpin and lunged at Yao Mowan.

Lord Thousand Faces swiftly intervened, disarming her. Ye Hongyi condemned Consort Shu for her selfish desires and ordered her and Cai Die to be imprisoned and executed. Consort Shu was dragged away, still screaming threats at Yao Mowan. Later, Consort Li awoke to the devastating news that she had lost her child. Alone, she confessed that she had known all along about the poisons in the comb and the wooden base. She deliberately allowed the events to unfold.

This calculated sacrifice, she reasoned, served multiple purposes: it helped her eliminate Consort Shu, made Yao Mowan lower her guard, and, most importantly, would evoke deep guilt in His Majesty, paving the way for her to regain his favor. She expressed profound regret to her unborn child, wishing for it a life free from the treacherous imperial court in their next incarnation, hoping they could be mother and child once more.

Emperor Ye Hongyi, feeling immensely guilty over Yao Suluan's miscarriage, consoled her, assuring her that they would have another child in the future. Yao Suluan, feigning self-blame and sorrow, tearfully expressed her helplessness, lamenting the loss of her family, mother, and now her child, leaving only the Emperor. This further pained Ye Hongyi, who promised never to neglect her again and vowed to make those who harmed her pay a hundredfold.

Prince Dun, upon learning of his daughter, Consort Shu, being imprisoned, was distraught. The next morning, he went to the palace to beg for her life. Ye Hongyi, however, held a long-standing grudge against Prince Dun for supporting Prince Ning in his rebellion. Regardless of Prince Dun's pleas, Ye Hongyi refused to relent, declaring that Consort Shu's crimes of attempting to harm the imperial heir and assassinate Noble Consort Wan were punishable by death.

Prince Dun offered to renounce all his titles and power to save his daughter, even offering his own life in exchange. Ye Hongyi coldly told him that if he truly wished to die, he could accompany Consort Shu on her journey. Yao Mowan visited Consort Shu in the imperial prison, finding her in a miserable state. Yao Mowan declared that Consort Shu, who was once a cunning schemer, had become caught in her own trap.

She reminded Consort Shu that it was her greed, wanting both the status of a consort and Prince Junqing's affection, that led to her downfall. Yao Mowan also revealed that Consort Shu’s attempt to use her to harm others had backfired. Yao Mowan then informed Consort Shu that she knew she was responsible for poisoning Empress Yao Moxin's prenatal medicine with poison nut extract, which ultimately killed her.

Consort Shu, in turn, lashed out, accusing Yao Moxin of being fickle-minded and causing deep pain to Prince Junqing. She argued that Yao Moxin had forced Prince Junqing to relinquish the throne and suffer Ye Hongyi's suspicion. Consort Shu then accused Yao Mowan of being the "second Yao Moxin," hoping she would release Prince Junqing if she did not truly love him.

Yao Mowan, deeply hurt but composed, retorted that she would take good care of Prince Junqing and told Consort Shu to prepare for her impending death. Ye Hongyi suspected Prince Junqing of colluding with border generals and tasked Qian Mian with an investigation, but no evidence was found. After the theft of some documents from Prince Junqing’s residence and subsequent assassination attempts on him, Ye Hongyi realized that keeping Prince Junqing confined in the palace had only alerted him.

He ordered Prince Junqing to return to his residence. Qian Mian expressed concern that "letting the tiger return to the mountains" could be detrimental, but Ye Hongyi believed this was a tactic of loosening the reins only to grasp them tighter. Han Jinyi, hearing that Prince Junqing could finally return home, assumed they could relax their guard.

However, Prince Junqing, well aware of Ye Hongyi's suspicious and stubborn nature, knew that Ye Hongyi would not easily drop his guard against those he perceived as threats and would eventually harbor murderous intentions. Instead of fleeing to Wanhuang City, which would confirm Ye Hongyi's suspicions, Prince Junqing ordered Han Jinyi to recruit skilled martial artists, bringing them into the residence under the guise of hiring household servants.

Prince Dun, desperate to save Consort Shu, appealed to Prince Junqing for help, offering the command of the Capital City Garrison. Prince Junqing, however, calmly rebuked Prince Dun for his treacherous words and suggested he seek assistance from General Luo Bin, with whom Prince Dun had a close relationship. Yao Mowan was troubled and dispirited, questioning her path of revenge.

She reflected on the many lives sacrificed and the blood on her hands, hoping to repay the blood debt with her own life once her revenge was complete. Soon after, Yin Xue informed her that Prince Junqing had returned to his residence. Ben Lei urged Prince Junqing to return to the border, but Prince Junqing believed Ye Hongyi allowed him to leave the palace precisely to observe his next move.

He instructed Ben Lei to tell the border troops to remain cautious and await his command. Prince Dun visited General Luo Bin, who was living in seclusion at Qingfeng Temple. Prince Dun sought his help to save Consort Shu using the Death-exemption certificate granted by the late Emperor. General Luo Bin found it hard to believe Consort Shu would plot to harm an imperial heir. Given Prince Dun's past life-saving kindness, General Luo Bin agreed to help.

Upon arriving at the palace, General Luo Bin expressed his concern to Ye Hongyi that the current chaos in the harem, unlike the peaceful times under the late Emperor, was eroding the nation's foundation. He suggested that punishing Consort Shu, Prince Dun's only daughter, could provoke Prince Dun to use his military power, leading to unrest. General Luo Bin presented his Death-exemption certificate, requesting Consort Shu's release. General Luo Bin insisted on meeting Noble Consort Wan.

During their audience with Ye Hongyi, General Luo Bin deliberately challenged Yao Mowan, implying her rise was too swift and that she had an ulterior motive to become another Yao Moxin. Yao Mowan calmly defended herself, stating her loyalty to the Emperor and her need for self-preservation in the cutthroat harem. Ye Hongyi, protecting Yao Mowan, dismissed General Luo Bin's accusations, attributing Consort Shu's punishment to his own decisions.

General Luo Bin, however, remained unconvinced, asserting that Yao Mowan was the root of the palace's troubles and a threat to the nation. He then left, vowing to prevent Yao Mowan from destabilizing the Kingdom of Chu. Later, General Luo Bin visited Consort Shu in prison to learn more about Yao Mowan. Consort Shu, initially hesitant to reveal details about Prince Junqing, confessed everything to General Luo Bin in exchange for her freedom.

That night, Qian Mian reported General Luo Bin's unauthorized visit to the imperial prison to Ye Hongyi. Though displeased, Ye Hongyi decided not to pursue the matter, acknowledging General Luo Bin's past contributions to the nation. General Luo Bin then returned to speak with Ye Hongyi, reiterating his concerns about Yao Mowan. He revealed Yao Mowan's true intentions: to avenge Yao Moxin and assist Prince Junqing, and urged Ye Hongyi to execute her.

Ye Hongyi, dismissing this as lies from the dying Consort Shu, accused General Luo Bin of being swayed by her. General Luo Bin countered, accusing Ye Hongyi of being blinded by his affection for Yao Mowan, who resembled the late Empress, and of failing to discern right from wrong. Enraged, Ye Hongyi threw back the Death-exemption certificate, declaring that General Luo Bin seemed to need it more than Consort Shu.

These exchanges were overheard by Yin Xue, who reported them to Yao Mowan. Yao Mowan concluded that General Luo Bin was a threat in the palace, determined to save Consort Shu and kill her. She instructed Yin Xue to spread rumors that General Luo Bin and the Empress Dowager were lovers, hoping to use such "poisonous words" to force him out of the palace.

However, General Luo Bin, a seasoned veteran of wars and palace intrigue, quickly saw through Yao Mowan's scheme. He ordered his men to abduct Yao Mowan from Guanju Palace. Upon hearing of Yao Mowan's disappearance and General Luo Bin's absence, Ye Hongyi was furious, assuming General Luo Bin had kidnapped her.

He ordered all checkpoints in the capital to be sealed and the imperial prison to be heavily guarded, anticipating General Luo Bin's attempt to break Consort Shu out of jail. Meanwhile, Prince Junqing also received news of Yao Mowan's disappearance and prepared to rescue her, but Yin Xue intercepted him, delivering a pouch Yao Mowan had entrusted her with in case of danger.

Having abducted Yao Mowan, Luo Bin was surprised by her composure. He remarked that such brilliance could not serve the Emperor or the Kingdom of Chu, and thus, he intended to eliminate her to prevent another battle of four kings. Yao Mowan countered that Luo Bin had clearly misunderstood her. She clarified that her assistance to Prince Su was not to help him seize the throne, but to protect a great warrior of Chu from devious men.

Luo Bin then asked who in this world wasn't devious, stating it was simply a difference in standpoint. Yao Mowan revealed that she knew Luo Bin's true intention: to use her abduction as a diversion, forcing Ye Hongyi to deploy the Iron Blood Army in search of her, which would allow Luo Bin's men to rescue Consort Shu. Luo Bin, impressed by her insight, admitted that she had seen through his plan.

He reiterated his intention to kill her, believing she would bring disaster to Chu. Yao Mowan, however, warned him that Ye Hongyi was already wary of his overbearing achievements and dominance in court, merely waiting for him to make a mistake. She predicted that the imperial prison was likely in chaos at that very moment. Indeed, Ye Hongyi had set an ambush in the imperial prison.

Luo Bin's subordinate, Jin Cheng, reported that Consort Shu was not in the prison and they had fallen into a trap before dying from severe wounds. Overcome with grief and rage, Luo Bin drew his sword, threatening to kill Yao Mowan. However, Ye Junqing and his men intervened.

This was all part of Yao Mowan's plan; she had entrusted her strategy to Ye Junqing: use her disappearance as a distraction, lure Ye Hongyi to deploy the Iron Blood Army, and then have Han Jinyi and Yin Xue ambush any escapees from the prison to track Luo Bin. Yao Mowan decided to give the credit for Luo Bin's capture to Qian Mian.

When Qian Mian reported to Ye Hongyi, he confirmed Yao Mowan's safe return and claimed he intentionally allowed Luo Bin's men to escape to track them, leading to Luo Bin's capture. Ye Hongyi, pleased, heavily rewarded Qian Mian and ordered Luo Bin to be brought before him. Ye Hongyi questioned Luo Bin's devotion to Prince Dun, asking if risking his lifelong reputation to save a criminal was truly worth it.

Luo Bin declared himself a man of devotion, indebted to Prince Dun, and willing to repay him with his life. Ye Hongyi acknowledged Luo Bin's loyalty but stated that his death would serve to stabilize the court and consolidate imperial power, especially after the recent chaos caused by Luo Bin's actions. Luo Bin agreed to do anything to help consolidate the empire, but insisted that Ye Hongyi could not kill him.

When Ye Hongyi asked why, Luo Bin revealed that killing him would be patricide, a grave sin against divine providence. Ye Hongyi, in disbelief, accused Luo Bin of speaking nonsense on his deathbed. Luo Bin then recounted the tragic history: he and Xiao Rong, Ye Hongyi's mother, were deeply in love and secretly vowed to marry. However, his duties called him to war for the former Emperor.

During his absence, the former Emperor took advantage of the situation, "snatching her away" and bringing Xiao Rong into the palace. Luo Bin revealed that Xiao Rong was already pregnant with his child at that time. To protect the secret, she had no choice but to let Ye Hongyi live as a royal prince.

Ye Hongyi was horrified and vehemently denied the claim, asserting that the royal blood of Chu flowed in his veins and accusing Luo Bin of fabricating stories. To prove his claim, Luo Bin revealed that all men in the Luo family carried a distinctive red birthmark on their left arm, a trait passed down from father to son through generations. This revelation sent Ye Hongyi into a state of shock and disbelief as he recalled his childhood.

He remembered his mother, Xiao Rong, strictly warning him never to let anyone see his own red birthmark, not even his father or brothers, emphasizing that his life would be in danger if the secret was exposed. She had hoped he would never know the truth, fearing he would live in constant fear of death. Now, the horrifying truth dawned upon Ye Hongyi, causing him immense distress and fear.

Unbeknownst to them, Yin Xue, positioned on the rooftop, had overheard their entire conversation. Yin Xue reported her findings to Yao Mowan, confirming that Ye Hongyi was indeed the illegitimate son of Luo Bin and Xiao Rong, born from an "ill-fated love" before Xiao Rong entered the palace. The red birthmark served as irrefutable proof.

Yao Mowan was stunned; her earlier scheme to spread rumors about Xiao Rong and Luo Bin to force Luo Bin out, which she considered a risky tactic, had unexpectedly hit upon the truth. Recognizing the gravity of the situation and the unpredictable nature of the Emperor's heart, Yao Mowan saw this as a pivotal moment where disaster and fortune were intertwined.

She decided to "add fuel to the fire" of the circulating rumors, eager to see how Ye Hongyi would choose to handle this shocking truth. The rampant rumors in the palace disturbed Ye Hongyi, but he couldn't simply kill Luo Bin. Instead, he issued a decree to suppress the rumors, ordering the execution of anyone caught spreading them. He hesitated on Luo Bin's fate.

Meanwhile, Yao Mowan, feigning ignorance, visited Ye Hongyi, playfully expressing her disappointment that he didn't seem to care about her recent kidnapping, which served to gauge his reaction. Ye Hongyi, masking his internal turmoil, reassured her and promised to seek justice for her. Luo Bin, confined, seemed prepared for his fate, challenging Ye Hongyi to kill him if he truly believed Yao Mowan's "slander."

Ye Hongyi declared he would not pursue the kidnapping matter further, but killing Luo Bin would go against divine providence and earn his mother's unforgiveness. Luo Bin questioned Ye Hongyi's understanding of his mother, lamenting that he had never seen Xiao Rong since their parting and couldn't even attend her funeral. He believed, however, that Xiao Rong's spirit would not wish for Ye Hongyi to destroy his own future. Ye Hongyi then proposed they visit Xiao Rong's spirit tablet together.

Yin Xue updated Yao Mowan on the escalating rumors, Ye Hongyi's crackdown, and his frequent meetings with Luo Bin. Yao Mowan decided to "lie low" and continue monitoring Ye Hongyi, acknowledging the approaching storm. She also noted Han Jinyi's temporary departure for Wanhuang City. At Xiao Rong's spirit tablet, Luo Bin finally expressed his long-held emotions to her, saying he could finally visit her.

Ye Hongyi, addressing his "Mother," said her son had also come to visit and hoped she would be pleased to see their family reunited. Luo Bin echoed this, expressing that his only wish now that Ye Hongyi was Emperor was for him to protect Chu forever, ensuring his life's battles weren't in vain. Ye Hongyi then spoke of Chu's governance by filial piety.

Addressing Luo Bin as "Father" for the first time, Ye Hongyi apologized for his past lack of filial devotion and offered him a cup of wine, stating that in this moment, they were not ruler and subject, but a reunited family of father and son before his mother. Luo Bin, accepting the inevitable, drank the wine, which immediately caused him to cough up blood.

In his final moments, Luo Bin urged Ye Hongyi to eliminate Ye Junqing, revealing that Ye Junqing was the true heir to the royal bloodline. After Luo Bin's death, Ye Hongyi was deeply unsettled, yet he rationalized his patricide, believing it was necessary to protect his imperial power. He affirmed that anyone, no matter how beloved or close, who threatened his throne would be eliminated.

Yin Xue later reported Luo Bin's death to Yao Mowan, who noted that Ye Hongyi had indeed taken this drastic step, confirming her belief that he would eradicate anyone who interfered with his power. She also reflected on how she herself might have faced a similar fate in the past. When Ye Hongyi arrived at Guanju Palace, Yao Mowan, feigning innocence and vulnerability, expressed her boredom and continued fear of Luo Bin.

Ye Hongyi, maintaining the pretense, apologized for his busy schedule and assured her that General Luo had been sent "back to the deep mountains" and would no longer disturb her. With Southland repeatedly invading Chu's borders and cities, court officials urged Ye Hongyi to send reinforcements, with many proposing Prince Su, Ye Junqing, the "God of War," to lead.

Ye Hongyi, however, expressed concern over Ye Junqing's popularity, but then, to everyone's surprise, declared his intention to personally lead the army in three days to boost morale. Despite ministers protesting the dangers of the battlefield, Ye Hongyi remained resolute. He then appointed Ye Junqing to lead the Outpost Army as his vanguard. Shortly after, an urgent report arrived: Yulin Pass was surrounded by Southland forces and desperately needed rescue.

Ye Hongyi immediately ordered Ye Junqing to lead the troops to Yulin Pass. Yao Mowan learned about Ye Hongyi's decision to personally go to war and Ye Junqing's immediate deployment to Yulin Pass, prompting her to rush out in concern for Ye Junqing's safety.

Meanwhile, Ye Hongyi revealed his true, nefarious plan to a subordinate: he would allow Ye Junqing to relieve Chu's crisis, then ensure he died heroically on the battlefield, believing "a dignified end means dying on the battlefield," thereby eliminating him while utilizing his skills. Yao Mowan, arriving to see Ye Hongyi, expressed her concern over his decision to personally lead the campaign. Ye Hongyi questioned whether her worry was for him or for Ye Junqing.

Yao Mowan quickly clarified that Prince Su was merely a prince and could not be compared to the Emperor. After Ye Hongyi reassured her of his victorious return, Yao Mowan made a surprising request: to accompany him. She explained that her deceased sister had once saved King Hanyu of Southland, and her presence might leverage this past favor for peace talks, sparing the people from war.

Ye Hongyi, acknowledging that "Mo Xin" (referring to Yao Mowan, but using the identity of her sister, Yao Moxin, which he believed she was) was the only woman in his harem fit for the battlefield, agreed to her request.

Upon receiving news from Qian Mian that Prince Su, Ye Junqing, was nearing victory at Yulin Pass, Emperor Ye Hongyi was advised to seize the opportunity to attack Lian City, whose defenses were currently weak. However, Yao Mowan intervened, cautioning against another assault that would further devastate the already suffering people of Lian City. She bravely offered to go to Lian City herself to negotiate a peace treaty with the Southland general.

She reasoned that as a woman, she would be underestimated, making the Southlanders drop their guard, which would in turn help reduce casualties for the Kingdom of Chu. Convinced by her logical argument, Ye Hongyi dispatched an elite troop to accompany and protect her. During her peace talks, Yao Mowan firmly reminded the Southland general that Chu and Southland shared established diplomatic relations, which Southland had violated by initiating the war, an act she deemed dishonorable.

She also highlighted Chu’s military might and the Southland army's vulnerability, offering them three days to peacefully evacuate Lian City. Meanwhile, Ye Hongyi secretly instructed Qian Mian to release a captured Southlander spy, while separately arranging for false intelligence to be spread. Qian Mian then revealed to an aide that he had disseminated a false report to Ye Junqing, claiming Yao Mowan was trapped in Lian City.

This was a calculated trap to ensure Ye Junqing's demise, as Ye Hongyi intended to withhold aid. To ensure his scheme remained secret, Qian Mian brutally murdered the aide after promising him a promotion. Believing the false report that Yao Mowan was in peril, Ye Junqing urgently rushed to Lian City. There, a furious Southland general, resentful of Chu's perceived betrayal, falsely boasted that he had dismembered Yao Mowan.

Enraged, Ye Junqing killed the general, unaware that the general had, in fact, already agreed to Yao Mowan's terms of surrender. After entering Lian City, Ye Junqing's subordinate, Ben Lei, reported that Yao Mowan's body was nowhere to be found, but that a plague had broken out, infecting many citizens. Ye Junqing immediately took charge, ordering the cremation of the dead, isolation of the infected, and the assembly of all available doctors.

Witnessing a distraught young girl mourning her mother, a plague victim, Ye Junqing defied warnings and went to comfort her, inadvertently injuring himself and contracting the plague. Yao Mowan soon learned that Ye Junqing had been lured to Lian City by false reports of her capture and was now besieged by the Southland army. She confronted Ye Hongyi, desperately pleading for immediate reinforcements.

Ye Hongyi, however, coldly dismissed her pleas, asserting that casualties were an unavoidable aspect of warfare and that everything was governed by destiny. He then accused her of truly worrying about Ye Junqing, forbidding her from further meddling in military affairs. Simultaneously, Ye Junqing and Ben Lei, realizing the Emperor's malicious intent, deduced that Ye Hongyi was deliberately withholding aid to eliminate Ye Junqing.

Acknowledging Ye Hongyi's ultimate goal was his life, Ye Junqing decided it was not yet time for a desperate final stand, just before collapsing from the surging plague. As Yao Mowan continued her heated argument with Ye Hongyi, a messenger arrived with the fabricated news that Ye Junqing had been defeated and bravely martyred.

Overwhelmed with grief, Yao Mowan defiantly questioned Ye Hongyi if this was the outcome he had desired, to which he feigned sorrow and rebuked her for her "insolence." Disregarding Ye Hongyi’s earlier prohibition, Yao Mowan secretly rode to Lian City, where she found a gravely ill Ye Junqing unconscious. Ignoring the warnings of his soldiers about the highly contagious plague, she pushed past them.

When Ye Junqing briefly awoke and tried to push her away, fearing she might be infected, Yao Mowan defiantly kissed him, vowing that they would face life and death together. She promised to find a cure and that after they had exacted their revenge, they would retreat from the world to live a simple life as husband and wife.

Ye Hongyi soon received a report from Qian Mian, confirming that Ye Junqing was alive and that Yao Mowan had gone to Lian City. Realizing his plan to eliminate Ye Junqing had failed and that he had underestimated his brother, Ye Hongyi nonetheless continued to withhold reinforcements.

As the Southland army intensified its siege, threatening to raze Lian City, Yao Mowan deduced that Ye Hongyi was intentionally using the city's inhabitants and soldiers as pawns to weaken Southland's forces for his own strategic gain. Resolved that passive waiting was no longer an option, she decided they must seek external aid. She proposed enlisting the help of Han Jinyi, the Lord of Wanhuang City, and Chu Mo Bei, the Crown Prince of Shu.

A flashback revealed that Yao Moxin, Yao Mowan's older sister, had once outmaneuvered Chu Mo Bei in a business wager. Impressed by her intellect and generosity, Chu Mo Bei had pledged a favor to her, symbolized by a golden coin, promising to aid her family if they ever faced trouble.

Despite his subordinate's counsel against interfering in Chu's internal affairs, Chu Mo Bei decided to honor his promise, driven by both his sense of obligation and a curious desire to meet Yao Moxin's renowned sister. The Southland army, deploying explosives, began to breach Lian City's gates. Despite his severely weakened state, Ye Junqing prepared to lead the defense.

Yao Mowan tried to stop him, concerned for his health, but he gently knocked her unconscious to prevent her interference, entrusting her to Ben Lei's protection. He then rallied his remaining soldiers with a passionate speech, urging them to fight valiantly for their land, family, and dignity.

As Chu's soldiers engaged in a desperate battle, suffering heavy casualties, unexpected reinforcements arrived: Han Jinyi led the forces from Wanhuang City, while Chu Mo Bei commanded the Shu army, launching a decisive pincer attack on the Southland forces. Upon learning of this unforeseen turn of events and the utter failure of his intricate plan to eliminate Ye Junqing, Ye Hongyi realized that further inaction would expose him to severe criticism.

He grudgingly ordered his own troops to finally reinforce Lian City. Following the battle, Yao Mowan informed a recovering Ye Junqing that the war had ended. She had also discovered a crucial medicinal herb to cure the plague, and Han Jinyi was actively searching for it to produce a remedy. Shortly after, Ye Hongyi arrived, immediately confronting Ye Junqing.

He accused Ye Junqing of gross insubordination and fabricating military reports, declaring that these offenses, by military law, warranted the death penalty. Yao Mowan attempted to defend Ye Junqing, arguing that his actions were noble, meant to rescue her, and that the false reports were a necessary wartime deception. Ye Hongyi silenced her, then sharply questioned her unauthorized presence in Lian City and her solitary interactions with Ye Junqing.

Ye Junqing, taking full responsibility, urged Yao Mowan not to defend him and requested immediate punishment. Yao Mowan then boldly clarified her motivations, stating that her presence in Lian City was solely for Ye Hongyi's benefit: to prevent the catastrophic loss of a strategic city and the "God of War," which would have severely damaged his reputation and the morale of Chu's army.

She explained that her actions had created a narrative where his eventual arrival appeared to be a meticulously planned "fatal blow," thereby salvaging his image. She concluded that her "gamble" on his inherent benevolence had proven correct. Ye Hongyi, acknowledging her status as the Noble Consort, declared he would spare her punishment. However, he swiftly condemned Ye Junqing to public execution in three days, citing his "violation of military orders" and its devastating consequences for Chu's people and soldiers.

As Ye Hongyi delivered his decree, Qian Mian reported that the majority of soldiers from Lian City were infected with the plague, warning that without immediate treatment, the contagion threatened to endanger the entire army.

The plague in Lian City remained unchecked, prompting Ye Hongyi to issue a cruel order: to burn alive all soldiers infected with the disease. Upon learning this, Yao Mowan was overcome with emotion, confronting Ye Hongyi and accusing him of being heartless and unfit to be an emperor. She declared that one who cherishes soldiers but not the people cannot be a general, and one who cherishes a general but not the people cannot be a ruler.

After a desperate cry, she collapsed. Ye Hongyi, visibly distressed, carried Yao Mowan to her tent. He confessed that making such a decision caused him pain, but he believed it was necessary to prevent the plague from spreading to more soldiers and civilians. He recalled a past warning from Luo Bin that an emperor must be devoid of sentimentality and as unyielding as iron.

He asserted that he would gladly be seen as a villain if it meant safeguarding the Kingdom of Chu and its myriad lives. Three days later, the time appointed for Ye Junqing's public execution arrived. Ye Hongyi offered Ye Junqing a cup of poisoned wine as a final farewell. Ye Junqing, understanding Ye Hongyi's intention to eliminate him, poured the wine onto the ground, his eyes filled with both defiance and resentment.

Ye Hongyi proceeded to order Ye Junqing's beheading, citing his defiance of military orders and the resultant conflict. As the execution was about to commence, soldiers pleaded with Ye Hongyi for mercy. This only angered Ye Hongyi further, who declared that any further pleas would be treated as defiance of military command. Just as the axe was about to fall, Duan Ting Ting, Princess Chang Feng of Southland, arrived with Princess Han Yue, interrupting the execution.

They announced that Southland sought a peace treaty with the Kingdom of Chu, proposing a diplomatic marriage. Duan Ting Ting declared her unwavering commitment, stating, "I, Duan Ting Ting, will only have Ye Junqing as my husband in this life." She explained that upon hearing of Ye Junqing's impending execution, she had coerced her father, the King of Southland, into signing the peace treaty by threatening suicide.

To save his daughter, the king had agreed to cede ten cities to the Kingdom of Chu as a condition for peace, knowing Ye Hongyi's ambition to expand his territory. Princess Han Yue presented the treaty, along with the offer of ten cities and the marriage alliance, hoping for eternal peace between the two kingdoms. An advisor congratulated Ye Hongyi on gaining territory without bloodshed.

Ye Hongyi, attributing the conflict to Ye Junqing, decreed that Ye Junqing would be responsible for maintaining the peace by marrying Duan Ting Ting, thereby waiving his execution. Duan Ting Ting insisted on an immediate wedding in the military camp, claiming Southland women disregard formalities and that she had long admired Prince Su. Ye Hongyi assented, ordering the wedding to take place within three days at the camp. Yao Mowan, witnessing these developments, was heartbroken.

Later, Duan Ting Ting joined Ye Junqing, who was drinking alone, reminding him of her earlier vow never to let him go. Ye Junqing thanked her for saving his life. Duan Ting Ting then offered him her necklace, explaining it was a Southland custom for a woman to give her necklace as a token of lifelong commitment to the man she loves. Ye Junqing declined, acknowledging her as a loyal and noble woman.

However, he regretfully stated that he would be unable to return her affections, as his heart belonged to Yao Mowan. Duan Ting Ting accused him of still being fixated on Yao Mowan, who she claimed had betrayed him to become the Emperor's consort, asserting that their fate was over and she was the one truly destined for him. She also reminded him of the treaty, implying he could not defy the decree.

Duan Ting Ting vowed to make him fall in love with her willingly. Meanwhile, Princess Han Yue visited Yao Mowan, expressing shock at Ye Hongyi's brutal methods, especially regarding the plague. Yao Mowan confided that she and Ye Junqing had been under constant surveillance and had lost their freedom. She feared a major upheaval in Chu due to the Emperor's immorality.

Princess Han Yue cautioned Yao Mowan to be vigilant, to which Yao Mowan replied that she had her own plans. She then requested Princess Han Yue's help to see Ye Junqing one last time to bid him a proper farewell. Duan Ting Ting, determined to win Ye Junqing's affection, secretly gave him Southland pastries laced with a potion. Afterward, Ye Junqing's demeanor towards Duan Ting Ting completely changed; he became deeply affectionate, seemingly forgetting his past with Yao Mowan.

Yao Mowan, accompanied by Princess Han Yue, came to see Ye Junqing. He spoke to her formally, apologizing if he had ever given her the "wrong idea" in the past and declaring that his heart belonged solely to Duan Ting Ting. Yao Mowan, distraught, questioned if he had forgotten their shared history and his promises to marry her and to follow her wherever she wished to go.

Duan Ting Ting intervened, telling Yao Mowan to accept her position and warning her that continuing to pursue Ye Junqing would only put his life in jeopardy. Heartbroken, Yao Mowan relented, telling Duan Ting Ting, "I don't care what you have done to Jun Qing. Take care of him." After Ye Junqing left, Princess Han Yue confronted Duan Ting Ting about drugging him.

Duan Ting Ting initially denied it but eventually confessed, explaining her overwhelming love for Ye Junqing and her refusal to endure the pain of watching him suffer over Yao Mowan any longer. Princess Han Yue warned her of the severe consequences if Ye Junqing were to ever regain his senses, but Duan Ting Ting remained unconcerned. Separately, Han Jinyi confronted Ye Junqing, angrily questioning his decision to marry Duan Ting Ting after his deep love for Yao Mowan.

Ye Junqing, acting under the influence of the potion, dismissed Han Jinyi's concerns and claimed he never intended to marry Yao Mowan. Han Jinyi accused him of being shameless and left in disgust. Alone, Ye Junqing touched the jade pendant on his belt and experienced a sudden wave of dizziness. Elsewhere, Yao Su Luan visited Consort Shu in prison, gloating over her downfall. Consort Shu, though initially dismissive, desperately asked about Ye Junqing's safety.

Yao Su Luan cruelly informed Consort Shu that Ye Junqing was her greatest weakness and then delivered the news of his impending marriage to Duan Ting Ting, secured by ten ceded cities. Devastated, realizing she had lost everything and was now useless to Ye Junqing, Consort Shu chose to end her life.

As Yao Su Luan presented the implements for suicide, Consort Shu delivered a final warning, predicting that Yao Su Luan would face the same fate of "love unrequited" as she had. Consort Shu then changed into clean clothes, wrapped herself in white cloth, and committed suicide by hanging in her cell. In a final thought, she promised Ye Junqing that she would love him still in the next life.

On the day of the wedding, Duan Ting Ting joyfully awaited Ye Junqing in her bridal attire. However, Ye Junqing was in a daze, clutching his jade pendant and delaying the lifting of her veil. Impatient and angry, Duan Ting Ting snatched the pendant and smashed it on the table. The sudden shock triggered a severe headache in Ye Junqing, and flashes of memory flooded his mind.

He recalled Yao Moxin giving him a "Couple Jade" and then remembered that Yao Mowan had recently spoken the very same words Yao Moxin once did: promising to marry him and follow him wherever he went, whether to travel the world or live a secluded life. Confused, he muttered "Mo Xin," then "Mo Wan," and again "Mo Xin," before rushing out of the tent.

In the dark and pouring rain, Ye Junqing rushed out of his camp, desperately searching for Yao Mowan. Duan Ting Ting, dressed in her wedding gown, followed closely behind him, calling out, "Brother Jun Qing! Wait for me!" When Ye Junqing finally found Yao Mowan, he pulled her into an embrace, convinced she was Yao Moxin. " You're not Mo Wan. You're Mo Xin! You're Mo Xin, right?" he exclaimed.

He recalled the promise he made to Mo Xin, "If I have to choose between the empire and you, I'll marry you. No matter if you want to travel around the world or live an idyllic life, I'll follow suit. This was what I said to Mo Xin. How can you know about it?"

Yao Mowan, remembering Duan Ting Ting's earlier warning that their marriage was sealed and that "If this continues, you'll kill him," knew she had to bring Ye Junqing back to reality. She slapped him, reminding him that the Great Chu was in turmoil. " Wake up, Ye Jun Qing! Don't be impulsive and let your judgment be clouded by emotions! Do you think you're still alive for yourself? Open your eyes and look closely!

Look at the living hell of Great Chu! Look at the sufferings our people are having right now! The Ye Jun Qing I know is a man who cared and empathized with the world. Have you forgotten about the huge responsibility on your shoulders?" She then told him she was going to rest and asked him to leave. Ye Junqing, now free of the Gu poison, roared in anguish in the rain.

As the Gu poison was lifted, Duan Ting Ting, who had administered it, lost the ability to love again. Duan Ting Ting found him and expressed her pain. " Ye Jun Qing! Am I no way better than Yao Mo Wan? Why can't you spare a look at me? You jerk! She hurt you so badly! And you still love her that much?" She confessed her love despite his feelings for another. " I admit defeat. I'm not regretful.

As long as you can live, please let me keep you company. Even if we're not a true couple, I'll submit to that!" Overwhelmed, Ye Junqing collapsed in the rain. Later, Ye Junqing and Duan Ting Ting performed their wedding rites before the Southern Region King. The King congratulated his daughter, advising her to control her "spoilt temper" and be careful. He then turned to Ye Junqing with a stern warning. " Prince Su, please remember.

My child saved your life. You and I are the most important men in Ting Ting's life. I hope you can fulfill your responsibility as a husband. Use your life to love and care for her. If I hear that you did wrong to Ting Ting and break her heart, I'll definitely rip your skin and break your bones. You'll suffer till the end of your life. I never break my promise."

Duan Ting Ting quickly interjected, assuring her father that her husband was "mature and steady" and "caring," and they would "help each other in the future and be courteous to each other." The King, however, teased her for protecting her husband. With a final embrace, the King bid his daughter a tearful farewell, noting their long journey ahead to Great Chu and the uncertainty of their next meeting.

Meanwhile, Great Chu suffered from long-term war, leaving its people displaced, diseased, and scarred. As refugees passed a military camp, a hungry child was caught stealing a sweet potato from a soldier and was almost beaten. Yao Mowan intervened, scolding the soldier for his violence and giving the child food. The child recounted how his village was burned and he became separated from his parents while fleeing.

Deeply moved, Yao Mowan provided him with more food and advised him to stay with the convoy to find his family. Yao Mowan then rushed to Ye Hongyi’s tent, where she found him feasting. She implored him, "Your Majesty, after the war, disasters and calamities struck. Many citizens by the borders lost their homes. People are dying from starvation and deeply tortured by war. May Your Majesty open the granaries to relieve the poor to save the people.

If Your Majesty ignores them, in the future, the people of Great Chu will be greatly disappointed by you." Ye Hongyi dismissed her, retorting, "Did you think I haven't thought about this? We're in a catastrophe now. How can I be clueless of the torture my people are suffering from? If I open the granaries, it'll be a huge impact on the treasury. Then the whole country will suffer under the trigger of riots and disputes.

Situations will become even more chaotic. If other adherents held malicious thoughts and mixed themselves within, the Great Chu will be in danger. We have no other choices. I'll order to send the refugees to the savanna. This can be counted as the best way." Yao Mowan vehemently argued, "The savanna is now a lawless place! With dangerous landscapes and lacking resources, those refugees may not even make it through! You're killing them just the same, Your Majesty!

You ignore good advice!" Enraged, Ye Hongyi accused her, "Audacious! As my Imperial Noble Consort, you spoke rashly and trifled with national affairs! Do you still respect me? Do you care about the palace laws and customs? Guards! Take the Imperial Noble Consort back to her tent for reflection." Undeterred by her confinement, Yao Mowan sought help from Jinyi, Lord of Wanhuang City, who arrived shortly after.

She explained Ye Hongyi's plan to force the refugees into the desolate savanna, which was near Wanhuang City. Jinyi, moved by her compassion, immediately agreed to send instructions back home to care for the incoming refugees. Meanwhile, a group of frustrated refugees, turned roving rebels led by Liu Sha, discussed their dire situation. " We have almost robbed every village around here. We have not much food left now," Liu Sha said.

Realizing their desperate methods were unsustainable and that the imperial court had decided to "ignore our life and death" by forcing refugees to the savanna, Liu Sha declared, "We can only act against them!" A rebel informed him that the Chu army, likely with the emperor, was nearby. Separately, Ye Junqing also pleaded with Ye Hongyi not to abandon the people. " We've plunged the people into misery and suffering with war. Plenty of refugees might enter Great Chu.

If we give up on them now, people may rage against us. Revolution will arise. It'll be too late when roving rebels emerge." Ye Hongyi, noticing the similarity between Ye Junqing's and Yao Mowan's concerns, grew annoyed and accused Junqing of implying he did not care for his people. Just then, a messenger reported that "many of the refugees became roving rebels ahead. They burnt, killed and looted. All villages nearby were harmed."

Ye Hongyi, furious at this lawlessness, ordered immediate capture and execution for all who committed such crimes. Ye Junqing then took his leave. As Ye Hongyi's royal procession passed through Qi City, the magistrate reported the town was desolate due to roving rebel activity. Yao Mowan, seeing the suffering, defied a guard's order to stay within the magistrate hall, claiming the residence was too stuffy for her and she would bear any responsibility for leaving.

She went out to treat the sick. Ye Junqing, who had been following her, observed her medical expertise, which strikingly reminded him of Yao Moxin. He confronted her, "Yao Mo Xin! Tell me who you are. You're Mo Xin, aren't you?" Yao Mowan, maintaining her facade, rebuked him for his "indecorous behavior" in following her. " My sister has passed away. I am Yao Mo Wan. I'm the Imperial Noble Consort of the Emperor. Besides, you're married.

Don't forget about it, Prince Su." At that critical moment, Ye Hongyi arrived, questioning their presence together. Duan Ting Ting quickly intervened, claiming she had sent Ye Junqing to seek a prescription from Yao Mowan for her own "cold." Yao Mowan corroborated, confirming Duan Ting Ting was "perfectly fine" with rest and warmth. Duan Ting Ting then feigned illness to leave, much to Ye Hongyi's lingering displeasure. Later that evening, Yao Mowan thanked Duan Ting Ting for her quick thinking.

Duan Ting Ting, however, clarified her motives. " I'm not doing it for you. His Majesty feared upon Jun Qing's existence. I don't want to see him jump into a fire pit without a doubt even when he sees one. So, no matter what, I'll hold onto him." Yao Mowan responded with a simple "thank you," while Duan Ting Ting, still distant, dismissed her, saying she was tired.

That night, Yao Mowan heard cries for help from refugees outside her residence. Despite the guard's restrictions, she slipped out. An old woman pleaded for her help, as her child's fever had returned. Yao Mowan promised to help and told her to wait in an alley. In the alley, Yao Mowan was ambushed and captured by Liu Sha's rebels, who intended to use her as a "chip to negotiate" with the emperor for food.

Meanwhile, early that morning, Ye Junqing frantically searched for Yao Mowan. Yin Xue appeared, ready to rescue her, but Yao Mowan signaled her to stand down. " I overheard the conversation of these two guards. They don't have a good life. It's a pity that they underestimated the matter. I refuse to see them die in vain. Stand down for now. I want to speak with them." She then confronted Liu Sha, "You're their leader?

I am afraid, but you can't kill me now. If you do, you'll lose the chip to negotiate with Ye Hong Yi. I'm worried that you and your brethren might die in vain for overestimating yourselves." She proposed a wager: "Liu Sha, do you want to have a bet with me? If you lose, you must heed to all of my requests in the future." Liu Sha, intrigued, asked, "What are we betting?"

Yao Mowan replied, "We'll bet whether Ye Hong Yi will save me." Upon learning of Yao Mowan's disappearance, Ye Hongyi demanded answers and dispatched his troops. Ye Junqing also frantically searched for her, eventually coercing a refugee woman and her child to reveal Yao Mowan's location after they initially tried to hide it out of fear of the rebels. The woman confessed that Yao Mowan was captured by rebels at an abandoned tower.

A messenger quickly confirmed this to Ye Hongyi: "Your Majesty. Her Highness was held captive at the abandoned tower. They said if you don't open the granaries, they'll kill Her Highness!" Ye Hongyi led his army to the tower. Liu Sha, holding a blade to Yao Mowan, called out, "Darn emperor! If you care for your people, then spare a path for us refugees! Open the granaries and help the poor!

If you refuse to do so, I'll kill this beauty! I'll show the world that the great ruler of Chu is such a useless man who can't even protect his own woman!" Yao Mowan cried out, "Save me, Hong Yi!" As a guard asked, "Your Majesty, should we rescue her?" Ye Hongyi stood in agonizing indecision.

Emperor Ye Hongyi, facing the bandit threat with Yao Mowan as a hostage, declared that in his battles, only winning and losing mattered, and a mere gang of bandits would not threaten his imperial power. He ordered his men to fire arrows. Fortunately, Yao Mowan had anticipated this and set up mechanisms on the dilapidated city tower, allowing both herself and Liu Sha to escape.

Liu Sha, having lost the gamble, pledged his allegiance to Yao Mowan, promising to serve her wholeheartedly. Yao Mowan gave him a letter and instructed him to lead his followers to Jingyao Trading in the savannah, explaining that she had privately founded the business, which included inns, a horse team, and shops to house them. She assured them that someone would later arrive to train them in martial arts to serve her purpose.

Liu Sha gratefully accepted, promising to lead his brothers safely to the grassland. Meanwhile, Thousand Faces reported to Ye Hongyi that the city tower was filled with scarecrows and Yao Mowan's whereabouts were unknown. Ye Hongyi inquired about Prince Su's location, and then, seeing Yao Mowan reappear, feigned concern, asking if she was hurt.

Yao Mowan explained that she survived by treating the bandits' injuries with her medical skills and that Ye Hongyi's decisive order to fire arrows made her seem worthless to the bandits, prompting them to abandon her and flee. Ye Hongyi then ordered a pursuit, but Yao Mowan advised returning to the city first to rest the army, which had suffered heavy losses. Ye Hongyi agreed.

Upon returning to Guanju Palace, Yao Mowan felt a sense of unfamiliarity, and Ye Hongyi urged her to rest. Inside the palace, Ting Yue cried with relief upon seeing Yao Mowan return. Soon after, Yao Su Luan arrived, feigning weakness and piety, congratulating Ye Hongyi on his victory. A eunuch then reported that Consort Shu had committed suicide ten days prior, on the very day of Prince Su's wedding.

Yao Su Luan attempted to invite Ye Hongyi to her palace to rest, but he declined, instead ordering a doctor for Yao Mowan. Yao Mowan refused the doctor, stating Ting Yue's care was sufficient. Later, Yao Mowan and Ting Yue spoke privately. Ting Yue revealed that Cai Ying had died mysteriously, and Consort Shu (Wang Qin Ruo) had lost all hope and taken her own life after learning of Prince Su's marriage.

Yao Mowan reflected on Consort Shu's life, noting how she was manipulated by her family, forced into power struggles, and ultimately lost everything, including the man she loved. She admitted feeling like a "walking dead" but knew she had to be strong for her own survival and revenge. Ting Yue made her promise to always take her along, no matter where she went.

At Prince Su's Residence, Duan Ting Ting's maid expressed concern over the quiet household and Prince Su moving to the guest room on their wedding night. Duan Ting Ting, however, dismissed her worries, explaining that Prince Su was busy with state affairs and didn't want to disturb her.

She then gave her dowry jewelry to the caretaker, asking him to pawn them, reward the household staff, and hire more servants to make the residence livelier, stating that Prince Su, as Chu's God of War, should not be dishonored by a lack of grandeur. Emperor Ye Hongyi, still suspicious of Prince Su's activities, ordered Thousand Faces to monitor him closely.

Thousand Faces reported that Ye Junqing had remained in his residence, caring for Duan Ting Ting, but Ye Hongyi found this account dubious and ordered continued surveillance. That evening, Duan Ting Ting found Ye Junqing applying medicine to a wound on his arm. She offered him a powerful Wound-healing Salve she had brought from Southland, saying, "You don't care about your health, but I do."

Noticing a secret guard outside, Ye Junqing quickly pulled Duan Ting Ting onto the couch, feigning marital intimacy to hide his injury. After the guard left, he apologized and explained Ye Hongyi's constant suspicion. He warned her that Ye Hongyi would likely send more spies to the residence, and she must feign ignorance if she noticed anything unusual to help them break free from their predicament.

Duan Ting Ting, disheartened, realized that despite his perilous situation, Ye Junqing still chose Yao Mowan. She presented a divorce paper, explaining that she wished to fulfill his desire to be with the one he truly loved, freeing him from the emotional burden of their fake marriage.

She asked him to sign it, acknowledging that their marriage, being a matter of diplomatic relations, could not be publicly dissolved, so they would have to maintain the facade of a married couple externally. Ye Junqing signed the divorce paper. Duan Ting Ting then declared she was "free again." Believing the time was ripe, Ye Junqing instructed Ben Lei to send a secret document to the border generals, signaling them to prepare the suicide army for action.

With the army assembled and ready, Ye Junqing gave Ben Lei another secret letter, this time for Yao Mowan at Guanju Palace. Ben Lei worried about the risk, but Ye Junqing assured him the letter contained a unique numerical code that only he and Mo Xin understood, confident that Yao Mowan would comprehend its meaning. Unbeknownst to them, Emperor Ye Hongyi had already been aware of the secret code, recalling its use by Mo Xin in the past.

He expressed his frustration that both Mo Xin and now Yao Mowan were "embarrassing" him. He instructed Thousand Faces to intercept and replace Ye Junqing's original letter to Yao Mowan, and also sent a manipulated reply to Ye Junqing, scheduling a meeting for both of them at the northeast side palace at the hour of Zi. Ye Hongyi declared his intention to "put an end to everything, ashes to ashes, dust to dust."

At the appointed time, Yao Mowan and Ye Junqing arrived at the side palace. Ye Junqing questioned how Yao Mowan understood his secret code, believing she was Mo Xin. Yao Mowan, in turn, questioned his presence, quickly realizing they had walked into a trap. They communicated silently through hand gestures, confirming Yao Mowan's true identity as Mo Xin. Ye Junqing then slipped his dagger into her hand. Outside, Ye Hongyi and his guards, including Thousand Faces, surrounded the palace.

Hearing feigned arguments from within, Ye Hongyi kicked open the door. He found Ye Junqing lying on the ground, bleeding profusely, and Yao Mowan standing over him with the dagger. Yao Mowan fiercely accused Ye Junqing of killing her sister, presenting the tampered letter as evidence. She claimed Ye Junqing had spread rumors during the succession struggle, causing her sister great suffering.

She then challenged Ye Hongyi's love for Mo Xin, asserting that his doubts had ultimately pushed her sister to her death. Enraged, Ye Hongyi scolded Yao Mowan for her rash actions but, convinced by her performance, ordered a physician to treat Ye Junqing. Yao Mowan continued to insist that Ye Junqing must die to avenge her sister, but Ye Hongyi dismissed her, ordering her back to her palace to rest.

Despite his severe injuries, Prince Su Ye Junqing received a visit from Emperor Ye Hongyi. The imperial physician reported that while the wound had been cleaned and treated, its depth and location across Ye Junqing's meridian meant he remained in critical condition. Ye Hongyi questioned the severity of the dagger wound, and the physician confirmed it was inflicted with the intent to kill.

The Emperor also inquired about Ye Junqing's shoulder injury; the physician noted it was a scald, not a sword wound, effectively concealing the true nature of the earlier staged injury. Yao Mowan, having witnessed Ye Hongyi's disregard for her life, steeled her resolve to take decisive action. She told a palace servant that Ye Junqing was stable but still in a coma.

Knowing there was no turning back, she met with Han Jinyi, explaining that their plans concerned the destiny of the Chu dynasty, as well as their own lives and Ye Junqing's. Han Jinyi pledged his unwavering loyalty. Yao Mowan then instructed him to have the coordinates from the Nine Dragons Cup, rumored to be a treasure map from the previous dynasty, located to fund their future military efforts. Han Jinyi expressed concern about Ye Hongyi's pervasive network of spies.

Yao Mowan acknowledged that the time was not yet right; while some officials harbored dissatisfaction with Ye Hongyi, many remained foolishly loyal. She outlined her plan to sow discord, recruit capable individuals, and prepare to raise the banner of war when the moment was opportune. Before Han Jinyi left, Yao Mowan asked him to take Ting Yue to see Ye Junqing, mentioning that the prince's injuries were a result of her actions, which visibly concerned Han Jinyi.

Meanwhile, Duan Ting Ting diligently cared for the injured Ye Junqing. She expressed her happiness at their constant companionship, despite having signed the divorce paper. Ye Junqing, feeling guilty for her sacrifices, offered to personally see her off if she ever wished to leave. Duan Ting Ting playfully chided him, joking about melting his "icy heart." Soon after, a butler announced the arrival of Han Jinyi and Ting Yue. Ben Lei was also present.

Han Jinyi inquired about Ye Junqing's health, prompting Ting Yue to tease Han Jinyi for sounding like a "little wife." In turn, Han Jinyi playfully mocked Ben Lei and Ting Yue about their growing affection. Ting Yue informed them she was accompanying Minister Yao Zhen Ting to the Yao Residence to pay respects to Mo Li. Ye Junqing then instructed Ben Lei to go with Ting Yue and look after the elderly Minister Yao.

As Ben Lei and Ting Yue strolled through the market, Ting Yue admired some adorable rabbits but decided against buying one. Ben Lei, eager to please, disappeared. Ting Yue waited, assuming he had gone to buy her a rabbit, but was horrified when he returned with a roasted rabbit. She scolded him for eating such a cute animal, to which Ben Lei, confused, retorted that women were strange.

Ye Junqing, in a private discussion with Han Jinyi, presented a symbolic "Book of Crimes," lamenting that while commoners and officials could be judged, no one could judge an unkind emperor. Han Jinyi cautioned Ye Junqing about the fine line between hero and traitor, warning of potential infamy. Ye Junqing explained his philosophy of "thinking thrice" when serving an emperor: considering danger, retreat, and change.

He had faced danger many times and survived, and his attempts to retreat from power had only led to imprisonment. Now, with no path for retreat, it was time for change. Han Jinyi reaffirmed his loyalty, vowing to follow Ye Junqing through life and death, as Ye Junqing declared his ambition to establish a nation based on the people's ideals. At Mo Li's grave, Yao Zhen Ting expressed regret over his official career, wishing he had remained a simple farmer.

Ting Yue delivered Yao Mowan's message that the Dou family had been eliminated and vengeance achieved. Yao Zhen Ting, however, wished Mo Li could persuade Yao Mowan in her dreams to not be so burdened by shouldering a country's responsibility. On their journey back, Yao Zhen Ting, Ting Yue, and Ben Lei encountered soldiers forcibly seizing farmland from distressed commoners. Yao Zhen Ting intervened, accusing the soldiers of using the garrison policy as a pretext to steal land.

The soldiers' leader falsely claimed the farmers had defaulted on grain loans, making their land forfeit, and branded them as "rebels" opposing national policy—a capital crime. A farmer countered that their agreement allowed delayed repayments in times of famine. Unconvinced, the soldiers left to report to their commander, Li Sui. Li Sui then fabricated a story for General Huan Heng, claiming a farmer named Wang had killed a soldier before committing suicide.

Believing the story, Huan Heng reported Yao Zhen Ting to Emperor Ye Hongyi. The Emperor, already enraged by a petition critical of his rule, was furious at Yao Zhen Ting for supposedly inciting "rebels" during a famine that had depleted the national treasury. Yao Zhen Ting knelt, attempting to explain that unscrupulous individuals were exploiting the garrison policy to seize private land and kill innocents, requesting to investigate further.

However, Ye Hongyi rejected his plea and assigned the case to Ye Junqing and Huan Heng. Ye Junqing immediately recognized the Emperor's "trap": successfully suppressing the commoners would brand him as an oppressor, while failing to do so would provide Ye Hongyi with grounds for his conviction.

His aide, Ben Lei, who had witnessed the incident, confirmed that the army had indeed invaded the land and the farmers had merely sought the return of their rightful property, with no killing involved. Yin Xue, on behalf of Yao Mowan, arrived to deliver a crucial message: the true key to resolving the situation lay not in discrediting Li Sui's lies, but in uncovering the actual cause of the soldier's death.

Ye Junqing promptly dispatched Ben Lei to the mortuary to investigate the deaths. He then visited the General's mansion, where the commoners, led by Wang's mother who vehemently declared her son's innocence, had gathered to demand justice. Ye Junqing addressed them, assuring them that he understood their plight and promised a thorough investigation to clear their names, learning from them that their loan contracts were made directly with the local village chief, not the military.

To quell the public outcry, Ye Junqing proposed to Huan Heng that they conduct a public trial at the General's Mansion, to which Huan Heng agreed. During the trial, Li Sui accused Wang and the other farmers of being ringleaders who refused to repay loans and resisted land reclamation, claiming Wang had killed a soldier and thus deserved to die. Wang's mother passionately pleaded her son's innocence.

Ye Junqing questioned Li Sui about the soldier's killing, asking if the stab was from the front or back. Li Sui asserted it was a front stab. Ye Junqing then had the soldier's corpse brought forward. Upon examining the body, Ye Junqing pointed out that the wound indicated a stab from the back, directly contradicting Li Sui's testimony. Cornered, Li Sui feebly claimed he "might have been mistaken."

Ye Junqing then exposed Li Sui's deception, presenting two sets of contracts: one between the farmers and the village chief, which clearly stated that grain loans could be repaid later in famine years, and another between Li Sui and the village chief, conspicuously lacking this clause. Ye Junqing concluded that Li Sui had colluded with the village chief to defraud the farmers for personal gain.

In his attempt to suppress the resulting unrest, Li Sui had accidentally killed one of his own soldiers and then tried to frame the farmers. Enraged by Li Sui's corruption and deceit, Huan Heng drew his sword and executed him on the spot. Acknowledging his error in judgment, Huan Heng ceded full authority over the aftermath to Ye Junqing, who ordered the immediate release of all detained commoners and the return of their farmland, earning him the people's widespread respect.

In the palace, Yao Su Luan (Consort Li) learned that the Emperor was spending time with Consort Chen (Huan Cai'er). She cynically observed that in the palace, "power is more important than love." Noticing the unusual reconciliation between General Huan and Minister Yao, she suspected Yao Mowan was secretly building her influence, further solidified by her newfound alliance with Consort Chen.

Yao Su Luan bitterly reflected on the uselessness of "love" and resolved to "break one of Yao Mowan's wings" by targeting Huan Cai'er. She instructed her eunuch, Xiao Xing Zi, to have Imperial Guard Huangfu Junxiu transcribe a specific poem, falsely claiming it was for a secret admirer.

Unaware of the scheme, Consort Chen happily told Yao Mowan that the Emperor had promised to let her leave the palace soon, then rushed to the Imperial Garden, believing Huangfu Junxiu had sent her the poem as an invitation. Yao Mowan, alerted by a eunuch burning wormwood who mentioned the Emperor and Consort Li were also in the Imperial Garden, realized it was a trap and hurried to warn Consort Chen.

There, Consort Chen showed Huangfu Junxiu the poem, but he denied sending it, explaining a eunuch had requested it. Yao Mowan tried to pull Consort Chen away, but just then, Emperor Ye Hongyi and Yao Su Luan appeared. Yao Su Luan feigned surprise, then subtly accused Yao Mowan of orchestrating the illicit meeting. Huangfu Junxiu attempted to take full responsibility, but Yao Su Luan insinuated Yao Mowan was the true mastermind.

Consort Chen, distraught, confessed her fault and begged the Emperor to spare Huangfu Junxiu. Surprisingly, after glancing at the acrostic poem Huangfu Junxiu held, the Emperor abruptly declared the matter closed, ordering everyone to return to their palaces.

Yao Su Luan sought an audience with Emperor Ye Hongyi, vehemently questioning why he had not punished Noble Consort Yao Mowan for allegedly facilitating Consort Chen's secret affair with an outside official, Huangfu Jun Xiu. Ye Hongyi explained that punishing them would necessitate revealing the affair, which he feared would plunge the already unstable court and apprehensive populace into chaos, especially with General Huan Heng’s growing influence.

Yao Su Luan pressed on, invoking the adage, "You can't bring order to the country if your household is in chaos." She reminded the Emperor of the existing controversies surrounding Yao Mowan and Prince Su and warned that further scandal involving Consort Chen and Huangfu Jun Xiu would severely tarnish the Emperor's and the royal family’s reputation. Soon after, Ye Hongyi summoned Huangfu Jun Xiu, who was already aware the Emperor knew of his affection for Consort Chen.

Huangfu Jun Xiu confessed his sin and begged the Emperor to spare Consort Chen’s life. Ye Hongyi then dispatched Huangfu Jun Xiu on a mission, but it was a ruse; he secretly ordered assassins to fatally wound Huangfu Jun Xiu with a poisoned arrow and cast him into a deep ravine. Once Qian Mian confirmed Huangfu Jun Xiu’s death, Ye Hongyi visited Consort Chen.

Feigning deep sorrow, he informed her of Huangfu Jun Xiu's demise during a secret mission, lamenting that he had secretly planned to reunite them upon Huangfu Jun Xiu’s successful return. Overwhelmed with grief, Consort Chen remembered Huangfu Jun Xiu’s promise to marry her. Heartbroken, she drank a bowl of lotus seed soup that Ye Hongyi had specially prepared for her, which was secretly poisoned.

Earlier, Yao Mowan, suspecting Ye Hongyi's murderous intentions upon hearing of Huangfu Jun Xiu’s mission, had immediately dispatched Yin Xue to alert Ye Junqing. Acting on a prior secret message from Yao Mowan to "spare Huangfu's life," Ye Junqing successfully rescued Huangfu Jun Xiu from the lake beneath the ravine. Huangfu Jun Xiu awoke in Prince Su's Residence, recovering from his injuries. He expressed immense gratitude to Ye Junqing, offering to repay his life-saving kindness.

Ye Junqing advised him to rest and assured him that Yao Mowan was also committed to helping him complete his unfinished business. Yao Mowan received a secret message from Ye Junqing confirming Huangfu Jun Xiu’s safety. Eager to share the good news with Consort Chen, she prepared to visit her. However, Ye Hongyi suddenly arrived at Yao Mowan's palace.

To avoid revealing her intentions, Yao Mowan quickly concocted a story about finally solving a difficult chess problem she had played with Consort Chen. Ye Hongyi, seeking diversion, asked her to show him the chess solution. During their conversation, Ye Hongyi deliberately mentioned Huangfu Jun Xiu's death, noting that Consort Chen was already aware of the tragedy.

Yao Mowan, maintaining a composed facade despite her inner turmoil, declined Ye Hongyi’s invitation for a stroll in the Imperial Garden, citing ill health. The moment Ye Hongyi departed, she rushed to Consort Chen’s chamber. Upon arriving, Yao Mowan found Consort Chen collapsed, seemingly poisoned by the lotus seed soup. Shortly after, Ye Hongyi and Yao Su Luan arrived.

Yao Su Luan demanded a thorough investigation into Consort Chen's sudden death, but a eunuch swiftly intervened, suggesting that a quick burial was necessary for those who died by suicide. Ye Hongyi, to avoid further scandal, declared that Consort Chen had died from a sudden severe illness and ordered her burial for the very next day. Meanwhile, at Prince Su's Residence, news of Consort Chen’s death reached Huangfu Jun Xiu.

Distraught and blaming himself for not protecting her, he turned to alcohol to numb his pain. Just then, Yin Xue arrived with Yao Mowan's secret message: Consort Chen was not dead. In a flashback, it was revealed that Yao Mowan had arrived at Consort Chen’s chamber within a quarter of an hour of her drinking the poisoned soup, before the toxins could fully invade her vital organs. Using silver needles, Yao Mowan expertly expelled the poison from Consort Chen’s body.

Consort Chen, revived and relieved to learn that Huangfu Jun Xiu was alive and safe at Prince Su's Residence, questioned how she could possibly escape Ye Hongyi’s clutches. Yao Mowan, explaining Ye Hongyi's treacherous nature, proposed a plan: she would use an "interim death needle" to induce a death-like state in Consort Chen. This would fool everyone, including Ye Hongyi, and allow them to switch her out of the coffin during the funeral, facilitating her reunion with Huangfu Jun Xiu.

Consort Chen bravely agreed to the perilous plan. General Huan Heng, unaware of the deception, was heartbroken at Consort Chen's memorial. During the mourning rituals, Yao Mowan subtly placed Consort Chen’s bracelet in his hand. Ye Junqing had meticulously arranged for a group of masters of ceremonies to perform the funeral rites. Huangfu Jun Xiu, disguised as one of them, infiltrated the procession.

As the coffin was being transported, Consort Chen, also disguised as a master of ceremonies, was covertly swapped out and left the mourning hall. However, Yao Su Luan abruptly entered the hall, expressing skepticism about Consort Chen’s sudden death and insisting on opening the coffin to verify its contents. Consort Chen’s loyal maid, Cai Yan, fiercely protected her mistress's secret by dramatically throwing herself against the coffin, sacrificing her own life.

Yao Mowan seized the moment to publicly chastise Yao Su Luan for disrespecting the deceased and causing the death of a palace maid. Flustered and unwilling to escalate the incident, Yao Su Luan grudgingly conceded and left. Later, Yin Xue overheard that Qian Mian was heading to the palace clinic to retrieve Jinzhi medicine. Yao Mowan immediately realized the danger: while beneficial for the ill, Jinzhi medicine was a potent, deadly poison for healthy individuals.

She worried that if Huan Heng, who was feigning illness, were to take it, his deception would be exposed with dire consequences. True to her fears, Qian Mian, acting under Ye Hongyi’s command, arrived at Huan Heng’s residence and forcefully gained entry. Qian Mian presented the Jinzhi medicine, demanding Huan Heng drink it immediately, citing that its potency diminished over time. Despite his reluctance, Huan Heng, pressured by the Emperor's decree, consumed the medicine and promptly dismissed Qian Mian.

Qian Mian departed, his suspicions about Huan Heng’s illness unconfirmed but lingering. Hidden nearby, Ye Junqing, armed with an antidote provided by Yao Mowan, swiftly appeared after Qian Mian’s departure and administered the counter-medicine to Huan Heng, saving his life. Huan Heng expressed profound gratitude to Ye Junqing and praised Yao Mowan’s extraordinary foresight, noting that her intelligence rivaled that of the former Empress.

He then voiced his deep concern over Ye Hongyi’s escalating suspicion and surveillance, fearing that his precarious situation might endanger Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan. Ye Junqing reassured Huan Heng, highlighting his distinguished military achievements and widespread public respect, which would prevent Ye Hongyi from acting rashly without concrete evidence. He suggested that they capitalize on Ye Hongyi’s growing suspicion and his guilt over Consort Chen’s predicament.

Ye Junqing revealed that Consort Chen and Huangfu Jun Xiu were safe in the distant savannah and promised to ensure Huan Heng’s safe passage to reunite with them, urging him to continue their fight for the people of Chu.

Qianmian reported to Ye Hongyi that General Huan Heng was using a supposed birthday banquet to extensively gather dignitaries, high-ranking officials, and nobles in the capital. Qianmian noted that those invited were suspiciously quiet about the event and worried Huan Heng "might be up to something." Enraged, Ye Hongyi accused Huan Heng of brazenly rallying support and plotting against him, declaring his intent to witness the banquet's conclusion. Prime Minister Yao, risking his safety, attended the banquet.

Huan Heng expressed deep gratitude for his presence, mentioning his own narrow escape from danger and how Yao Mowan, the Noble Consort, had come to his rescue, saving his sister Consort Chen from harm. He swore to repay the Yao family's kindness a thousand times over, a statement that piqued Yao Mowan's curiosity. Just then, Ye Hongyi arrived, causing an immediate shift in the atmosphere and widespread apprehension among the gathered officials.

Ye Hongyi confronted Huan Heng, stating that his family tree showed today was not his birthday, making the banquet a lie. He rebuked Huan Heng for his audacity in rallying support despite his past military achievements. Prime Minister Yao intervened, explaining that the gathering was not a birthday celebration but a solemn memorial for the late Consort Chen, whose sudden passing had caused General Huan immense grief.

He pleaded with Ye Hongyi to "forgive him" for resorting to such an unwise move due to "emotional pain." Ye Hongyi dismissed this, reminding them that grand memorial ceremonies for concubines were forbidden by Chu customs. He accused Prime Minister Yao of trying to beg for Huan Heng and questioned his loyalty for failing to report the gathering. He then threatened to deal with all the high-ranking officials present "one by one."

Huan Heng took full responsibility, begging Ye Hongyi to spare the others and asking if the Emperor would disregard the late Consort Chen's memory. Ye Hongyi sternly warned that he would thoroughly investigate the matter and from then on, any unauthorized gathering would be treated as treason and punished by law. Later that night, as Huan Heng's army made camp in the mountains during his journey to the border, they were ambushed by forces sent by Ye Hongyi.

To Huan Heng's dismay, his own apprentice, Wei Qi, was leading the pursuit. Wei Qi claimed Huan Heng had become a traitor, but Huan Heng urged his apprentice to "tell right from wrong" and not "follow blindly," advising him to "trust his heart." Prince Junxiu arrived just in time to rescue Huan Heng. To repay his debt of gratitude to Huan Heng, Wei Qi deliberately cut his own leg, feigning injury and announcing, "I've paid my debt of gratitude.

We'll go our separate ways from now on," allowing Huan Heng and his loyalists to escape easily. Huan Heng then reunited with Consort Cai (Cai'er) in the savannah. He received a letter from Yao Mowan, the Noble Consort, instructing him to remain in the savannah for updates as Ye Hongyi would surely discover his escape.

The letter also revealed that Jingyao Trading, a business she had established, and Prince Su’s former troops, complete with military supplies and soldiers, were at his disposal in the savannah for training, preparing them for future battles. Ye Hongyi, recalling how both Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan had recommended Huan Heng for the mission to deal with border bandits, found Huan Heng's disappearance highly suspicious.

He summoned Ye Junqing late at night, expressing his concern about Huan Heng's whereabouts and suspecting that Wei Qi had intentionally allowed Huan Heng to escape, conspiring to deceive him. Ye Junqing feigned ignorance, calmly pointing out that if Wei Qi had truly colluded with Huan Heng, he would not have returned to the capital after achieving his goal.

He advised against hastily labeling them as traitors, reminding Ye Hongyi of their "great contributions to Chu" and the risk of "losing two men in one day." Ye Hongyi agreed that the matter was suspicious and required further deliberation, dismissing Ye Junqing. Afterward, Ye Hongyi ordered Qianmian to "secretly investigate" the matter and "interrogate Wei Qi" thoroughly. Meanwhile, Yao Su Luan observed Ye Hongyi's worried expression and delicately brought up the Huan Heng situation.

When Ye Hongyi questioned her knowledge of the matter, she explained that the Yao family and Huan family were on good terms, with her father admiring General Huan's upright and loyal qualities. She then subtly implied Yao Mowan's involvement, mentioning Yao Mowan's close relationship with the late Consort Chen and her frequent contact with the Huan family. She further recounted that Yao Mowan had once praised General Huan's courage and insight when he visited the Yao Residence.

This fueled Ye Hongyi's growing suspicion towards Yao Mowan, leading him to order surveillance on the Yao Residence and other key officials. To protect Yao Mowan and divert Ye Hongyi’s suspicion, Prime Minister Yao made the drastic decision to take the blame himself. He deliberately penned a letter under his name, incriminating himself, and had his butler deliver it to the palace.

The letter was framed to appear as if Prime Minister Yao was instructing Yao Mowan on how to interfere in political affairs for the family's benefit. Upon reading it, Ye Hongyi was furious, denouncing Yao Zhen Ting for "inciting the concubine to interfere in politics" despite being the Prime Minister of Chu. He immediately ordered Qianmian to arrest and imprison Prime Minister Yao. Yao Mowan rushed to the prison, stopping the guards from torturing her father.

She tearfully confronted him for taking the blame, but Prime Minister Yao expressed profound regret for his past "obsession with power and status," acknowledging that he was "reaping what I've sown." He welcomed this opportunity to "atone for my sins" and finally do "something that a father should do," hoping only that "heaven will keep my two daughters safe." He added that he could then "rest in peace."

When Ye Hongyi arrived, Yao Mowan desperately confessed that she was solely responsible for everything and pleaded for her father's release. Prime Minister Yao, in turn, tried to take full responsibility, insisting Yao Mowan was innocent and knew nothing about the matter. Ye Hongyi, however, dismissed their pleas as a "touching display of father-daughter love," accusing Yao Mowan of hidden ambition, which he deemed "terrifying and detestable." He declared that her current isolation was "reaping what I've sown."

Yao Mowan then defiantly stated, "Then kill me, so I may reunite with Mo Xin in the afterlife!" At Prince Su's mansion, Yin Xue urgently informed Ye Junqing that Yao Mowan was confined in the palace and Prime Minister Yao had been arrested for treason, pleading for his help. Ye Junqing immediately deduced that Prime Minister Yao had sacrificed himself to protect Yao Mowan. Coincidentally, Eunuch Liu arrived, conveying Ye Hongyi's urgent summons for Ye Junqing to the palace.

Duan Ting Ting, sensing a trap, vehemently tried to dissuade Ye Junqing, warning that it was a "one-way trip" and he would "get himself killed." However, Ye Junqing, prioritizing Yao Mowan's safety above all else, declared that he "had to go" because "if I don't show up, Mo Wan will surely die," apologizing to Duan Ting Ting for the potential danger he faced.

Meanwhile, Yao Su Luan, convinced that Yao Mowan's "meddling in politics" sealed her fate, donned the empress's formal wear, envisioning her own ascension to the throne. She dismissed her maid's caution, asserting that no one could judge her for wearing her own clothes, and boasted that "even the gods can't save her." Her dreams were momentarily shaken by the news that Prime Minister Yao had taken all the blame for Yao Mowan.

With a sudden surge of conscience, Yao Su Luan rushed to the scene, still in the empress's gown. In the imperial hall, Yao Mowan continued to plead for her father's life. Ye Hongyi, presenting a dagger, issued a cruel ultimatum: he would spare Prime Minister Yao if Yao Mowan personally killed Ye Junqing.

In that tense moment, Ye Junqing stepped forward, pulling Yao Mowan behind him, revealing his long-suppressed feelings and refusing to continue "putting up with you and making compromises." Ye Hongyi's fury erupted. He accused Ye Junqing of always "stealing my things" and causing him to become "alienated one by one." Ye Junqing retorted, accusing Ye Hongyi of being "obsessed with personal gains" and growing "colder and colder."

Ye Hongyi declared his absolute authority, asserting, "Whether it is Mo Xin or Mo Wan, they are my women. Don't you dare take them away from me!" Yao Mowan again tried to take all the blame, stating, "I planned everything from beginning to end. Please release Jun Qing and my father. Take it out on me." Overwhelmed by irrational rage, Ye Hongyi screamed, "I want him dead!"

At that instant, Yao Su Luan, still in the empress's gown, burst in, begging Ye Hongyi to spare her father. Ye Hongyi's gaze fell on her attire, and he erupted in anger, condemning her "blatant disrespect" and demanding she remove the empress's gown. Yao Su Luan, desperate, pleaded her unwavering loyalty over the years, questioning if her life meant nothing to him and if he had ever considered crowning her as Empress.

Ye Hongyi brutally rejected her, stating that only Mo Xin was his Empress and reminding Yao Su Luan that their marriage was "only because you forced him to." In despair, Yao Su Luan uttered her poignant realization: "love cannot be forced."

The imperial court was in disarray as Yao Su Luan, clad in the empress' formal wear, faced Ye Hongyi. He, consumed by rage at her disrespectful act, drew his sword and held it to her neck, ordering her to remove the attire. Yao Su Luan, heartbroken by his coldness, lamented that her sincere devotion had always been ignored. She questioned why, after so many years, he had never considered her his wife or thought of conferring her as his empress.

Ye Hongyi scornfully reminded her that Mo Xin was his only empress and that their marriage was merely a result of her pleading to his father. Realizing that her love was unrequited and forced, Yao Su Luan tearfully expressed that loving him had completely exhausted her. Ye Hongyi, labeling everyone present as dissidents, ordered Thousand Faces to kill them all. As Thousand Faces moved to attack, Ye Junqing bravely stepped forward to shield Yao Mowan.

Just then, Ben Lei and his men arrived to intervene. In a desperate act, Yao Su Luan bravely shielded Ye Hongyi from a sword strike, sacrificing herself. As she lay dying in his arms, Ye Hongyi was overcome with grief, expressing deep regret for not having conferred her as empress and for not saving their child. He vowed to make her his empress. Seizing this critical moment, Ye Junqing swiftly led Yao Mowan and others out of the palace.

To ensure their escape, Yao Zhengtin courageously positioned himself at the palace gates, blocking the imperial soldiers and declaring that he had finally repaid his debt to Yao Mowan and her mother. Ye Junqing's group then rushed towards the city gates, where they were confronted by a company of soldiers. Ben Lei prepared for a fight, but the soldiers' commander stepped forward, respectfully acknowledging Ye Junqing's past deeds in battle and the aid he had provided to their families.

He ordered his men to clear a path for Ye Junqing's party. After their passage, the loyal soldiers engaged Thousand Faces' pursuing troops in a fierce battle. Meanwhile, Ye Hongyi received intelligence that Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan had successfully crossed the Chu border into the savannah, indicating they had made prior arrangements, as Ting Yue and Princess Chang Feng (Duan Ting Ting) were also reported missing. Feeling betrayed, Ye Hongyi ordered increased border security for the savannah.

He then recalled Dead Soul, a man he had secretly placed in the savannah, who held a deep-seated hatred for Ye Junqing. Ye Hongyi saw an opportunity to exploit this animosity and sent a secret message to Dead Soul, who, upon reading it, grimly acknowledged that the long-awaited moment for revenge against Ye Junqing had finally arrived.

In the savannah, Han Jinyi briefed Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan on their military preparations, confirming that weapons and food supplies were ready and General Huan's training efforts were proving effective, which might give Ye Hongyi pause. However, Liu Sha, a local leader, expressed strong reluctance for renewed warfare. He argued that after years of bloodshed, his people sought a peaceful existence.

He challenged Ye Junqing, accusing him of merely being another dignitary manipulating them for his "grand plan to save the people," and questioned why they should trust a royal-blooded man to lead them to their deaths. Ye Junqing, understanding their skepticism, pledged that if he failed to bring prosperity to the common people, Liu Sha could personally execute him. He assured them he would not allow his men to die in vain.

Ye Junqing assessed their current strength and concluded it was insufficient for a direct confrontation with the Kingdom of Chu. He worried that Ye Hongyi might compel Southland to ally against them. Han Jinyi proposed they act preemptively by seeking support from Southland and other regions.

Ye Junqing emphasized their advantage lay in the public support of the common people of Chu and expressed hope that Southland would recognize the strategic benefit of the weak uniting against the strong, as alliances with the savannah and Southland armies were essential for victory. At that moment, Duan Ting Ting and Ting Yue arrived.

Duan Ting Ting immediately offered to go to Southland, confident that she could persuade her father, the King of Southland, to support Ye Junqing, especially with her aunt also residing there. After careful consideration, Ye Junqing decided to proceed to Southland, instructing General Huan to remain and oversee battle preparations in the savannah, with only a small escort accompanying him. Yao Mowan sought to comfort Duan Ting Ting, asking if she still harbored any resentment.

Duan Ting Ting, having found peace with her unrequited love for Ye Junqing, replied that she had lost so completely there was no reason left to hate. She then handed Yao Mowan a divorce paper, stating that she and Ye Junqing were no longer husband and wife in name.

She mused that in this life, she and Ye Junqing were simply not meant to be, and expressed a poignant wish that in the next life, Yao Mowan would let Ye Junqing be hers. As the small team journeyed through the dense forest towards Southland, they became disoriented, repeatedly finding themselves back at their starting point. To conserve energy, Ye Junqing, Yao Mowan, and Duan Ting Ting decided to scout ahead.

They encountered an old man who deliberately gave them false directions, leading them deeper into a trap. Realizing they had been misled, they were ambushed by Dead Soul's forces. They fled towards a damaged suspension bridge spanning a deep chasm, but Yao Mowan twisted her ankle. As Ye Junqing protected her, Duan Ting Ting bravely intercepted a volley of arrows to shield them.

With her last strength, she severed the ropes of the bridge, plunging herself and the pursuing attackers into the abyss, thus securing Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan's escape. Dead Soul, seizing the opportunity, retrieved Duan Ting Ting's body and quickly proceeded to Southland. There, he twisted the truth for the King of Southland, falsely claiming that Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan had kidnapped Princess Chang Feng to coerce the King into supporting their rebellion.

He further alleged that during the pursuit by Chu soldiers, Duan Ting Ting tragically fell to her death. The heartbroken King, overwhelmed by the loss of his daughter and easily swayed by Dead Soul's deceitful account, swore that Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan would pay a blood debt and immediately ordered his soldiers to seal the borders and apprehend them. Ye Junqing was consumed by grief over Duan Ting Ting's sacrifice.

He blamed himself, lamenting his inability to repay her immense kindness, which cost her life, and that he could only erect a simple tombstone for her in the wilderness. Yao Mowan, seeing his despair, urged him to be strong. She reminded him that Duan Ting Ting's sacrifice was also for the sake of the common people, and she would not wish to see him so dejected.

She insisted they find a way out of the forest and reach Southland for help. Ye Junqing, regaining his composure, led the group in using the North Star to navigate their way out of the dense woods. Soon after, Ben Lei returned with grim news: the King of Southland (Hanyuan) had been informed of Princess Chang Feng's death and now believed Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan were responsible.

The King had sealed the borders and issued a death warrant for them. Yao Mowan insisted that their immediate priority was to explain the true sequence of events to the King of Southland, convinced that Princess Chang Feng's spirit would not want her father to be misled. However, that night, while Yao Mowan was asleep, Ye Junqing secretly departed alone for Southland, instructing Ben Lei and Yin Xue to keep Yao Mowan safe and be wary of pursuers. He understood the extreme danger of this mission but felt it was his responsibility to face the King directly, given his previous relationship with Duan Ting Ting.

The next morning, Yao Mowan awoke to the news that Ye Junqing had left alone for Southland to seek aid. Her companions also informed her that the Iron Blood Army was closing in on their location, prompting her to order an immediate transfer of their forces. Meanwhile, Ye Junqing arrived in Southland and was immediately confronted by its King.

The King reminded him of the promises made when Duan Ting Ting married him, accusing Ye Junqing of allowing Ting Ting to be neglected in his palace and ultimately leading to her tragic death in a ravine, unrecovered. Ye Junqing explained that he never intended to harm Princess Duan Ting Ting, but his heart belonged to someone else, a fact Ting Ting was aware of.

He recounted that they, along with Ting Ting, were pursued by the Iron Blood Army to a precipice, where Ting Ting sacrificed herself to protect him, falling to her death. He asserted Yao Mowan’s innocence, accepting full responsibility and offering to endure any punishment. He then appealed to the King, asking him to honor Ting Ting's memory by providing military support to the volunteer army.

The King, however, demanded Ye Junqing's death as the sole condition for releasing Yao Mowan and aiding the volunteer army. Ye Junqing, without hesitation, agreed, willing to die without regret if it meant saving Yao Mowan and gaining Southland's support. The King then had a fatal poison administered to Ye Junqing, who drank it and immediately suffered excruciating pain, coughing up blood.

The King, driven by his profound grief and disbelief in Ye Junqing’s words, expressed his desire for both Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan to suffer immensely. He ordered Ye Junqing to be chained above the city gates, left to perish. Upon learning of Ye Junqing's dire situation, Yao Mowan, deeply distressed, decided to enter the city with only Yin Xue for escort, instructing Ben Lei to guard the volunteer army and await her orders.

Once in Bian City, seeing Ye Junqing tormented at the city gates, she sent Yin Xue to seek help from Princess Han Yue. Han Yue soon met with Yao Mowan, who tearfully apologized for failing to protect Ting Ting and earnestly pleaded with Han Yue to believe that neither she nor Ye Junqing ever intended to harm the princess.

Han Yue confirmed her belief in their innocence but explained that her brother, the King, was overcome with grief, and Ye Hongyi's manipulations, including a maidservant's false testimony (who was later murdered, destroying evidence), had solidified his conviction of their guilt. Yao Mowan then asked Han Yue to help rescue Ye Junqing. Disguised as Han Yue’s maid, Yao Mowan visited Ye Junqing.

He was gravely ill from the "fatal poison," which Han Yue confirmed only her brother possessed the antidote for. Ye Junqing, weak and bleeding, urged Yao Mowan to leave, arguing that their escape would be seen as an admission of guilt for Ting Ting’s death. He emphasized the greater cause of the volunteer army and the common people, who depended on Southland's aid, which would be lost if their misunderstanding persisted.

He implored her not to be consumed by guilt or despair, reminding her of her responsibility to the thousands of people and soldiers, and expressed his regret at not being able to continue their journey together in this life. Han Yue then advised Yao Mowan that the immediate priority was to resolve the misunderstanding with her brother, the King, to save Ye Junqing and the people.

Before leaving, Yao Mowan entrusted Ye Junqing to Han Yue's care and borrowed Han Yue's personal token. Yao Mowan bravely confronted the King of Southland, offering her life but first seeking to reveal the truth. The King furiously accused her of being Chu’s Noble Consort who shamelessly seduced Ting Ting’s husband and had a secret affair.

Yao Mowan admitted to having feelings for Ye Junqing, but maintained that Ting Ting was aware of their affection, and their relationship was not a secret. She then presented Ting Ting’s handwritten letter of divorce, proving that Ting Ting had willingly decided to release Ye Junqing. Yao Mowan argued that if they had intended to harm Ting Ting, they would have done so in Chu, not in Southland. The King remained unconvinced, dismissing her words as deceit.

He demanded Han Yue be handed over, threatening to kill Yao Mowan and devastate the savannah if she refused. Yao Mowan calmly stated that Han Yue had willingly given her the token, believing in her and Ye Junqing's integrity. At that moment, Han Yue appeared, confirming Yao Mowan's account and asserting that Ting Ting's death was not their doing. She revealed that the maidservant's false testimony was coerced by Ye Hongyi's Iron Blood Army.

Despite this, the King remained unmoved, arguing that Ye Junqing, as Ting Ting's husband, still failed to protect her and deserved to die. Yao Mowan declared herself willing to bear the punishment in Ye Junqing's stead. The King then challenged her to pass the "Three Trials" to earn the right to negotiate for Ye Junqing’s life.

Yao Mowan endured the first trial, the Path of Rods, beaten until her body was covered in blood, yet she steadfastly maintained her innocence regarding Princess Chang Feng's death. She then faced the second trial, cutting her wrist, and the third, being submerged in water. Through all the brutal tortures, she never confessed to a crime she did not commit.

Han Yue, unable to bear witnessing the torture, pleaded with her brother, pointing out that he clearly knew they were innocent and was merely inflicting pain due to his personal grief. The King, overcome with sorrow, spoke of his love for Ting Ting and his despair at being unable to find her true killer. Han Yue assured him that the real culprit would indeed pay. After the ordeal, Han Yue took the severely wounded Yao Mowan to recover.

Yao Mowan, prioritizing Ye Junqing, asked about the antidote. Han Yue revealed the King's terms: within three days, Yao Mowan must find Ting Ting's murderer. If successful, Ye Junqing would be cured, and Southland would send reinforcements to the volunteer army. Yao Mowan insisted on returning to her troops immediately. Soon after, Han Jinyi arrived, having been alerted by Yin Xue’s letter. He expressed his anguish at seeing Yao Mowan’s injuries and Ye Junqing’s suffering, vowing to confront the King.

Yao Mowan, however, cautioned against antagonizing Southland, which would only benefit Ye Hongyi. She then proposed a plan to proactively lure out Dead Soul, knowing that the Iron Blood Army’s primary target was her. Meanwhile, Dead Soul, under pressure for previous failures, received information that Yao Mowan had been banished to the northern border as a slave. Eager to succeed, he set out to ambush her. Instead, Yao Mowan's forces ambushed Dead Soul, successfully capturing him.

Yao Mowan presented Dead Soul to the King of Southland as Ting Ting’s true murderer. Enraged, the King drew his sword and killed Dead Soul instantly. Han Yue expressed her belief that Ting Ting's spirit could now finally rest in peace. The King of Southland then administered the antidote to Ye Junqing, who, after recovering, reminded the King of his promise to aid the volunteer army.

The King voiced his concerns about the potential devastation a war with Chu would bring to the people of Southland. Han Yue argued that Ye Hongyi’s treachery meant war was inevitable and a swift attack would protect Southland’s populace. Ye Junqing reassured the King that the volunteer army would not burden Southland and urged him to avenge Ting Ting by eliminating Ye Hongyi, the true mastermind. Convinced, the King agreed to deploy troops to support the volunteer army.

However, Ye Hongyi, having learned of Southland's support for Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan, planned to preempt their alliance. Ye Junqing, meanwhile, considered further strengthening his forces by uniting with the Kingdom of Shu, hoping a three-army alliance could swiftly overthrow Chu. But unexpectedly, Crown Prince Chu Mo Bei of Shu led his army in a sudden invasion of the savannah. Ye Junqing was perplexed by Shu's unprovoked hostility, as there had been no prior conflict.

Chu Mo Bei's subordinate also expressed confusion over their king's sudden order to attack the volunteer army, even speculating about an alliance with Ye Hongyi. Soon after, Chu Mo Bei sent a secret letter to Ye Junqing, requesting a meeting in the forest outside the city. Ye Junqing, although wary of a potential trap, knew Chu Mo Bei’s character and decided to risk it.

During their meeting, Ye Junqing thanked Chu Mo Bei for his past assistance in Lian City, but Chu Mo Bei retorted that his help was merely repayment of an old debt to Yao Moxin, not an act of kindness, and asked Yao Mowan to confirm. Ye Junqing then directly questioned Chu Mo Bei's aggressive actions, including a failed ambush followed by a siege, asking why Shu was being so hostile. Chu Mo Bei, offended by the accusation of an "ambush," questioned if that was an appropriate tone for negotiations.

Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan met with Chu Mo Bei in a small grove outside the city. Ye Junqing expressed gratitude for Chu Mo Bei's earlier assistance in Lian City, but Chu Mo Bei quickly clarified that his help was merely to repay a past favor he owed to Yao Moxin, not to Ye Junqing.

Yao Mowan then questioned Chu Mo Bei's aggressive actions against the volunteer army of Chu, noting their lack of prior enmity, and asked why Shu had launched a sneak attack and then deployed troops to surround them. Chu Mo Bei found Yao Mowan's words impudent, stating it wasn't the right attitude for negotiation. Yao Mowan appealed for peace, emphasizing the suffering of the common people and invoking Yao Moxin's memory, urging him to withdraw his troops.

Chu Mo Bei agreed to retreat but proposed a condition: Yao Mowan must become his Crown Princess. Yao Mowan pressed him to take the negotiations seriously, highlighting the plight of Chu's citizens under Ye Hongyi. Chu Mo Bei asserted his sincerity, promising to marry her with due ceremony despite her past as a consort. However, Ye Junqing adamantly declared that Yao Mowan was his woman, and no one could touch her.

He warned Chu Mo Bei to retract his absurd proposal or face the consequences, even if it meant a complete rupture with Shu. Chu Mo Bei reiterated that it was a simple transaction: no marriage, no troop withdrawal. He then challenged them to meet on the battlefield. Ye Junqing accepted the challenge, despite Yao Mowan's attempts to stop him. As Chu Mo Bei departed, he issued a final warning about the potential consequences they might face.

After Chu Mo Bei left, Yao Mowan criticized Ye Junqing for acting too hastily, suggesting they should have waited for Chu Mo Bei's full explanation. Ye Junqing, however, called Chu Mo Bei shameless and saw no reason for further cooperation. Yao Mowan still believed there might be a misunderstanding behind Chu Mo Bei's unusual demand.

Ye Junqing became visibly jealous, questioning her past "history" with Chu Mo Bei, to which she clarified it was just a prior business encounter at the Jingyao Merchant Ship. Yao Mowan playfully teased him about his jealousy, but Ye Junqing sternly forbade her from ever meeting Chu Mo Bei again. He declared his intention to decimate Shu's forces on the battlefield. Yao Mowan tried to reason with him, pointing out that an open conflict would only benefit Ye Hongyi.

Ye Junqing remained firm, asserting that Chu Mo Bei was the aggressor and he would not allow anyone to take Yao Mowan away from him again. A subordinate reported to Ye Junqing that Chu Mo Bei had indeed cut off Savannah's food and water supplies, forcing the soldiers to subsist on coarse grains.

Yao Mowan expressed deep concern, fearing the soldiers wouldn't endure and that cannibalism could begin among the starving populace, as many civilians in the city were already dying of hunger. The current military food reserves could only last for two more days, with soldiers restricted to one meal a day. Ye Junqing dispatched Han Jinyi to scout for a potential breakout route.

However, Yao Mowan saw this as a mere temporary solution, a "drinking poison to quench thirst" approach that wouldn't resolve Savannah's crisis. Ye Junqing countered by reminding her that they had previously burned Shu's granary and cutting off their remaining supply lines was their path to victory, having already sent Yin Xue to investigate. Meanwhile, Chu Mo Bei, despite his military actions, felt uneasy about the desperate situation in Savannah.

His subordinate reported that the only possible breakout route had been completely blocked by Shu's forces. Chu Mo Bei, acknowledging that his army's main vulnerability was its extended supply lines, criticized his subordinate for deploying heavy troops to an easily defensible valley instead of focusing on protecting the vital food routes. The subordinate promptly agreed to reallocate forces to guard the supply lines.

When asked about the chances of a direct assault, the subordinate stated that victory was achievable but would come with heavy casualties, advocating for a prolonged siege instead. Chu Mo Bei, however, feared that delaying the attack would allow Southland's reinforcements to arrive, forcing Shu into a difficult two-front war, which could quickly turn the tide against them.

He therefore ordered an immediate siege of the city, with a strict command to ensure the safety of Ye Junqing, Yao Mowan, and Han Jinyi once the city fell. His subordinate questioned saving their enemies, but Chu Mo Bei explained that he had been reluctant to fight this war, had a personal history with the three, and his father's primary directive was to marry Yao Mowan to achieve peace, making her safety paramount.

He dismissed the subordinate's concerns and insisted his orders be followed. Huan Heng, Ye Junqing, and Yao Mowan reviewed their military options. Huan Heng stated that a direct confrontation with Shu was unwinnable given their current forces, and a surprise attack would necessitate abandoning their wounded soldiers and civilians. Ye Junqing proposed a daring strategy involving cavalry to encircle and strike at Shu's central command, but Yao Mowan deemed it too risky and urged him to consider an "easier" path.

Ye Junqing was wary, fearing that this "easier" path might be a trap to capture Yao Mowan as a hostage. Han Jinyi then reported that the sole waterway for a potential breakout had been sealed off by Shu's troops and that he had dispatched a request for aid to Southland. Yao Mowan, deeply troubled by the dire circumstances, lost her appetite and asked her meal to be distributed among the soldiers.

Just then, an elderly woman cried for justice outside the camp, accusing a member of Quicksand's group of killing her son over food. Yao Mowan initially sought to clarify the situation, suggesting a misunderstanding, but the woman tearfully insisted she had witnessed the murder firsthand.

Ye Junqing, enraged by the act of harming civilians, vowed severe punishment under military law, stating that their uprising was to protect the innocent, and any who brutalized them were no different from the tyrannical officials of Chu. He ordered the soldier's execution. Quicksand interceded, pleading for the man's life, arguing that the soldier was desperate from starvation and didn't deserve to die. Yao Mowan also urged Ye Junqing to calm down and consider a heavy punishment instead of execution.

However, Ye Junqing remained resolute, emphasizing that if they acted like the oppressors of Chu, their cause was meaningless. He ordered the man to be dragged away for beheading. Quicksand angrily confronted Ye Junqing, questioning his moral high ground when their lives were all at stake, and appealed to Yao Mowan for support.

Yao Mowan, however, echoed Ye Junqing's sentiment, telling Quicksand to put down his sword and asserting that they were soldiers, not bandits, and had to abandon their old ways. Accepting this, Quicksand declared that no one else would execute his man and personally beheaded the soldier, promising to look after the man's family. He then left in anger with his remaining followers.

Ye Junqing, undeterred by Yao Mowan's pleas, prepared to wage a decisive battle against Shu, convinced that remaining trapped in the city would lead to their demise, and unwilling to allow Yao Mowan to marry Chu Mo Bei. Unbeknownst to Ye Junqing, Yao Mowan had already made her move. She covertly traveled alone to Shu's military camp, where Chu Mo Bei awaited her. She asserted her status, demanding appropriate respect.

Chu Mo Bei, reminding her that in war there were only enemies, questioned if she had decided to become his Crown Princess. Yao Mowan agreed to marry him, but on her terms: Shu must form an alliance with the volunteer army, immediately withdraw its troops, and provide food supplies. Chu Mo Bei scoffed, believing Savannah was already a lost cause and victory was assured, questioning why he should ally with them.

Yao Mowan countered by invoking the ambition of the strong to conquer the world, asking if he was truly content with just Savannah. Chu Mo Bei recognized her audacity, comparing her to Yao Moxin, but quickly reminded her that she was a hostage for Savannah's people, stripped of any right to negotiate. Yao Mowan then presented her compelling argument: an alliance with the volunteer army could lead to conquering the world.

She detailed the current geopolitical landscape, with the world divided into three powers, Chu being the strongest, and Southland already allied with the volunteer army, making this the optimal moment to overthrow Ye Hongyi. When Chu Mo Bei questioned Shu's benefits, Yao Mowan warned that if Southland and the volunteer army were defeated, Shu would eventually face the powerful Chu alone, referencing historical precedents of allies being discarded after achieving a goal.

She further promised lasting peace for millions if Ye Junqing ascended the throne of Chu. Despite his lingering suspicion of deception, Chu Mo Bei's concerns were assuaged by her willingness to remain a hostage in Shu. Upon learning of Yao Mowan's solo mission and her acceptance of the marriage proposal, Ye Junqing felt betrayed and ordered his troops to prepare for war.

He later received a letter from Yao Mowan, explaining her sacrifice: "Jun Qing, now that Savannah is in dire crisis and its people are suffering, my heart aches. The only thing I can do is accept Chu Mo Bei's demands to bring peace to Savannah. Jun Qing, do not worry." Unbeknownst to them, this played directly into Ye Hongyi's grand scheme.

He had anticipated Yao Mowan's move and was delighted that she had seemingly betrayed both him and Ye Junqing, creating a complex predicament for her. Receiving news that Yao Mowan had entered Shu's camp and that the Savannah rebels, far from seeking peace, were assembling for war, Ye Hongyi was pleased. He envisioned a "clam and snipe" scenario where Shu, the volunteer army, and Southland would clash, leaving him to reap the benefits.

He planned to strike when all sides were exhausted to achieve his ambition of uniting the world. Later, after receiving a "Nine-Turn Soul Revival Pill" from a subordinate, Ye Hongyi stood before Yao Moxin's lifeless body, lamenting his sacrifices for the throne and his profound loneliness. He confessed his inability to let her go, despite knowing she might never awaken, wishing she could remain by his side forever.

Han Jinyi urged Ye Junqing to consider a peace agreement with Shu, emphasizing the lives of Savannah's countless people. However, Ye Junqing vehemently refused, declaring he could not accept Yao Mowan's sacrifice. He argued that a truly great cause should not be built upon a woman's self-sacrifice, stating that Yao Mowan was not a "trophy" to be bargained with, and he would not allow her to be desecrated in such a way.

He also alluded to having lost Yao Moxin once and being unable to bear losing "her" again, leaving Han Jinyi puzzled by his words. The next morning, Shu's army gathered outside Savannah's city walls, and an envoy called for their surrender, promising mercy. However, Ye Junqing, without hesitation, shot and killed the Shu envoy with an arrow, completely disregarding the diplomatic overture and its potential consequences.

Upon hearing this, Chu Mo Bei was enraged, calling Ye Junqing foolish for his reckless act, reiterating that peace was their only viable option. Yao Mowan realized that her decision to go to Shu's camp was the reason for Ye Junqing's current irrational and headstrong behavior. Determined to rectify the situation, she decided to personally convince him to choose a more sensible path.

Chu Mo Bei, however, expressed concern that if they met face-to-face, Ye Junqing would not easily let her go, suggesting it would be safer for her to send for him instead. Despite Ye Junqing's seemingly irrational decisions, Han Jinyi reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty, vowing to follow him, whether it led to madness or death.

Ye Junqing then detailed his plan for a surprise night attack on Shu's camp with three hundred elite cavalry, instructing Huan Heng to prepare them with black cloths for stealth. A soldier then arrived, delivering a letter from Yao Mowan. Ye Junqing instructed his men to proceed with the plan while he went to meet her.

He found Yao Mowan with Chu Mo Bei, and the two men exchanged terse words before Yao Mowan requested to speak with Ye Junqing alone, which Chu Mo Bei granted. Yao Mowan immediately confronted Ye Junqing about his reckless decision to go to war, questioning why he would abandon her and endanger Savannah's thousands of people for her sake, accusing him of being crueler than herself.

Ye Junqing, in turn, expressed his deep anguish, stating he couldn't bear to watch her marry another man again or live the rest of his life consumed by guilt. Yao Mowan implored him to understand that their personal feelings should not obstruct his greater ambitions for the people.

Ye Junqing, however, felt misunderstood, lamenting that she always made major decisions on her own, leaving him only with the final results and an overwhelming sense of guilt, making him question his importance in her life. Yao Mowan then tearfully confessed her profound love for him, greater than her own life, but asserted that she valued grand ideals and duties more than personal affection.

She earnestly pleaded with him to be pragmatic and rational, accusing him of cowardice for risking countless lives to demonstrate his devotion. She urged him to "do what you must." As Chu Mo Bei returned, Yao Mowan informed him that Ye Junqing had agreed to the alliance. Yao Mowan and Chu Mo Bei presented themselves before the King of Shu. The King expressed his admiration for Yao Mowan, remarking that she was indeed an extraordinary woman.

Chu Mo Bei then confessed that he had not captured Ye Junqing and Han Jinyi, as originally ordered, but had instead formed an alliance with them to overthrow Ye Hongyi's tyrannical rule. He argued that the volunteer army could be a valuable asset in Shu's eventual conflict with Chu.

The King approved of this initiative, revealing his plan to leverage Chu Mo Bei and Yao Mowan's wedding as an opportunity to invite the King of Southland, Ye Junqing, and Han Jinyi to sign a grand alliance against Chu. He ordered wedding invitations to be dispatched to all neighboring countries. As preparations for the elaborate wedding commenced, Yao Mowan, now addressed as the Crown Princess, tried to take a walk but was initially restricted by a maid.

Chu Mo Bei quickly intervened, asserting his authority and declaring that as his future wife, Yao Mowan was free to move as she wished within Shu, and he would bear all responsibility for her actions. Chu Mo Bei later confirmed that all wedding arrangements were complete, and then Yao Mowan asked him about his father's true intentions. On the day of the wedding, with envoys from various kingdoms gathered, the King of Shu addressed the assembly.

Noticing Ye Junqing's presence, he publicly acknowledged his past close relationship with the Crown Princess and invited him to offer a wedding toast. With profound sadness and anger barely concealed, Ye Junqing delivered a bitter and poignant toast to Yao Mowan. He wished her "peace in life and happiness without me," that she would have "no regrets in her future and no return to her past."

Finally, he offered the cold blessing that she and Chu Mo Bei would have a "harmonious marriage, blessed with many children and grandchildren." The King of Shu, seemingly oblivious to the underlying pain, praised the toast and echoed the wishes for the couple. Later, it was revealed that "bone weakening powder" was present, hinting at potential schemes during the event.

The ceremony for Yao Mowan and Chu Mo Bei's marriage in the Kingdom of Shu began, attended by Ye Junqing, who offered a painful blessing for the couple to live in harmony and have many children. The King of Shu, a figure actually impersonated by Ye Hongyi, echoed the well wishes. As a toast was made, everyone present collapsed, having been poisoned by a bone weakening powder. Yao Mowan quickly identified the poison.

Suddenly, the King of Shu ripped off his mask, revealing himself to be Ye Hongyi. He gloated, proclaiming that his wife was getting married and he should be present, asserting that the Shu guards were now under his control. Yao Mowan angrily accused him of despicable tactics. Ye Hongyi, however, deemed her a traitor for colluding with Shu and declared that she and Ye Junqing deserved to die.

Chu Mo Bei, in a rage, demanded to know what happened to his father, the real King of Shu. Ye Hongyi chillingly revealed that Chu Mo Bei's father was already dead, mocking him for his ignorance and calling him foolish. At that moment, Thousand Faces, from Chu's Iron Blood Army, formally greeted Ye Hongyi as the "King of Shu," confirming his successful coup.

A flashback revealed that Thousand Faces, sent by Ye Hongyi with a secret letter, had approached the real King of Shu. The letter proposed an alliance to eliminate Savannah rebels, with Chu only demanding Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan, leaving Savannah to Shu. The real King of Shu, however, saw through Ye Hongyi's scheme to "kill using the strength of another" and refused, vowing instead to aid the volunteer army to overthrow the tyrant.

He gave Thousand Faces one day to leave or face death. Thousand Faces then attacked and killed the King of Shu, and Ye Hongyi subsequently took his place. Back in the present, Ye Hongyi presented what he claimed were the only remains of Chu Mo Bei's father, further enraging Chu Mo Bei, who lunged at Ye Hongyi, vowing revenge.

Yao Mowan confronted Ye Hongyi, stating his true intention was to kill her and Ye Junqing, and urged him not to harm innocents. Ye Hongyi admitted his desire to kill her and proclaimed that everything was now under his control, promising a fate worse than death for all who betrayed him. Ye Junqing retorted that Ye Hongyi was the one who deserved to die. To Ye Hongyi's shock, Ye Junqing and the others were not actually poisoned.

Yao Mowan revealed that they had merely been "playing along" with his scheme. Ben Lei then led a contingent of allied forces into the hall, surrounding Ye Hongyi and his Iron Blood Army. Ye Junqing declared that Ye Hongyi's fate was sealed. Yao Mowan further mocked Ye Hongyi's hubris, stating that they had to go along with his elaborate plot. In a flashback, it was shown how the plot was uncovered.

Chu Mo Bei explained that his father had insisted he marry Yao Mowan, believing that whoever possessed her could rule the world. Finding this behavior abnormal, Yao Mowan had Han Jinyi investigate. They found a Marrow Lotion, used for skin-changing, in the King's chamber, confirming their suspicion that he had been replaced by an impostor. Han Jinyi added that a spy reported Ye Hongyi's three-day absence from court.

Concluding it was a trap, Yao Mowan and Ye Junqing secretly allied with Chu Mo Bei, arranging their forces within the palace to turn the tables on Ye Hongyi. Despite being surrounded, Ye Hongyi laughed, acknowledging Yao Mowan's intelligence but scoffing that they had underestimated him, revealing he had come well-prepared. Ye Junqing accused Ye Hongyi of being cruel and unfit to rule.

He offered Ye Hongyi mercy if he repented, but vowed to overthrow him for the sake of the innocent lives he had taken. Ye Hongyi dismissed Ye Junqing's compassion as hypocrisy, fueled by a lifelong resentment of Ye Junqing's favored status. He accused Ye Junqing of stealing Mo Xin and now Yao Mowan from him. The two brothers declared a fight to the death.

In the ensuing battle, Ye Hongyi's men created a smoke screen, allowing him to escape while vowing to kill Ye Junqing someday. Afterward, Ye Junqing ordered Ben Lei to gather leaders from all countries to discuss strategies against Chu. The war then escalated. An alliance was forged between the Kingdom of Shu, Southland, and the volunteer army of Savannah. As a unified force, they successfully captured two cities of Chu: Yulin Pass and Yecheng.

Ye Junqing, renowned as Chu's God of War, and Yao Mowan, praised for her intelligence, served as the joint commanders of the allied army, fighting alongside Han Jinyi and Chu Mo Bei. Chu's cities continued to fall. Hearing reports of Luocheng's capture and General Li Yu of Henei defecting, Ye Hongyi commanded his forces to heavily guard Qi City, a historically strategic location, vowing to personally oversee its defense.

At a strategy meeting, the allied leaders planned a four-pronged attack: General Huan Heng and Han Jinyi would infiltrate through the moat, Chu Mo Bei would flank from the rear, and Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan would lead a frontal assault. Upon arriving at Qi City, Ye Junqing's forces were met by Ye Hongyi, who stood atop the city wall using innocent civilians—women and children—as human shields, daring the attackers to advance over their bodies.

Ye Hongyi taunted Ye Junqing, knowing his conscience was his weakness. Seeing Ye Junqing's struggle, Yao Mowan argued that attacking would make them no different from the tyrant. Faced with this dilemma, Ye Junqing reluctantly ordered a withdrawal. As the allied forces retreated, they fell into an ambush orchestrated by Ye Hongyi, suffering heavy casualties. Chu Mo Bei, realizing they were overdue, dispatched reinforcements, arriving just in time to rescue Ye Junqing and Yao Mowan.

When informed of the rescue, an enraged Ye Hongyi declared that this was "just the beginning." Back at their camp, the allied leaders were at an impasse. General Huan Heng proposed a bold solution: he would personally infiltrate Qi City to persuade the defending general, Wei Qi—his former student—to surrender. Ye Junqing was hesitant, concerned that Wei Qi, who had been punished in the past because of Huan Heng, might hold a grudge.

However, Yao Mowan insisted it was their only viable option, and Huan Heng was confident. Ye Junqing ultimately agreed, urging him to prioritize his safety. Huan Heng, disguised, entered Qi City, but he was already being watched by Ye Hongyi's agent, Thousand Faces. He found Wei Qi, who was shocked by his master's presence. Wei Qi angrily accused him of disloyalty for joining the rebels.

Huan Heng calmly delivered a powerful sermon on the true way of a king and condemned Ye Hongyi as a tyrant, but Wei Qi stubbornly maintained his loyalty and ordered him to leave. As Huan Heng exited, Ye Hongyi and Thousand Faces appeared. Ye Hongyi accused Wei Qi of collusion, and as Wei Qi denied it, Thousand Faces swiftly struck down and killed Huan Heng. Witnessing his master's murder, Wei Qi's loyalty began to waver, horrified by Ye Hongyi's cruelty.

Afterward, Ye Hongyi ordered Huan Heng's head to be displayed on the city gate and his body to be fed to dogs as a warning. Separately, Chu Mo Bei met with Yao Mowan, assuring her that their previous engagement was merely a ruse. He confessed that he knew her heart belonged to Ye Junqing and, unwilling to separate them, had already issued an order proclaiming that she was no longer the Crown Princess of Shu.

Han Jinyi, also present, playfully teased Chu Mo Bei about fearing rejection. Just then, a soldier burst in with the news of Huan Heng's tragic death and the gruesome display of his head on the city wall. Overcome with grief, Yao Mowan blamed herself for his demise, but Ye Junqing, who was also there, consoled her, affirming that while revenge was necessary, her own life was the most important thing.

Yao Mowan was deeply distressed, unable to eat or sleep, seeing the innocent citizens of Qi City—old and young, women and children—bound as human shields by Ye Hongyi. Wei Qi, witnessing this scene, inwardly lamented his own choices. She reflected on her choices, feeling immense guilt that her path to revenge had implicated so many and that she always made wrong choices.

Ye Junqing held her hand, reassuring her not to blame herself, as victory and defeat were common in war. He sent Ben Lei and Yin Xue to collect the bodies of the massacred civilians for a proper burial, vowing to take Qi City and avenge General Huan. Later, Ye Junqing gathered the troops, apologizing for the recent defeat and General Huan's death, taking full responsibility. He denounced Ye Hongyi as a brutal and ruthless ruler who killed innocents.

He urged his soldiers to put aside their grievances, unite, and overthrow Ye Hongyi’s tyranny to ensure the safety of their families and bring peace to the Kingdom of Chu, thus honoring General Huan's spirit. The troops responded with a thunderous cry, eager to kill Ye Hongyi and avenge their fallen general. Meanwhile, Ye Hongyi was informed that Ye Junqing's army had retreated five miles to make camp and reorganize.

Suspecting a ploy, Ye Hongyi ordered Wei Qi to be extra vigilant and not let his guard down. Ye Junqing, discussing battle strategies with his allies, acknowledged that Qi City was a strategic choke point, easy to defend but hard to attack, surrounded by cliffs, and Wei Qi was skilled in counter-attacks. He worried about heavy casualties and their dwindling provisions.

Han Jinyi, impatient with the complexities, suggested a "bandit's strategy": bypass Qi City and strike directly at the capital to capture Ye Hongyi, ending the conflict quickly. Ye Junqing agreed with the "catch the leader first" approach, believing Ye Hongyi would be complacent after the recent defeat and unprepared for a swift counterattack. He proposed a dangerous plan: Han Jinyi would stealthily infiltrate Qi City to eliminate the guards and light a fire as a signal.

Upon seeing the signal, Chu Mo Bei and Yao Mowan would lead the volunteer army to attack the city gate and hold it for an hour. While the Chu army was distracted at the gates, Ye Junqing would lead an elite force to scale the cliffs and capture Wei Qi. Despite concerns about the risk to the commander, Ye Junqing was resolved, confident they could take Qi City within one hour.

That night, Han Jinyi and his small unit swiftly eliminated the city guards and opened the city gates, while Yin Xue began evacuating the captive civilians. Outside, Chu Mo Bei and Yao Mowan saw the fire signal and immediately led the volunteer army in, shouting to kill Ye Hongyi and avenge General Huan. Inside Qi City, Wei Qi was informed of the breach and resisted fiercely, accusing Ye Junqing of treason and ambition, sacrificing Chu citizens for his personal gain.

Ye Junqing revealed that the Emperor Wei Qi so loyally served had abandoned his troops and the city's populace to save himself, not for the first time. Wei Qi was stunned by this revelation, realizing he had been kept in the dark. Ye Junqing asked if he would still remain loyal to Ye Hongyi. Wei Qi declared his lifelong devotion to Chu, its people, and his own conscience.

Ye Junqing then revealed General Huan's dying wish: to spare Wei Qi, as Huan Heng's only regret was not teaching Wei Qi the true meaning of loyalty. Ye Junqing offered Wei Qi mercy but warned him that if he were to ever serve Ye Hongyi again, he would not be spared a second time. Reflecting on General Huan's tragic death and the suffering of the people, Wei Qi made up his mind.

He produced Chu's defense map, offering his service to the volunteer army. With Wei Qi's assistance, Ye Junqing and his allies stormed the Chu imperial palace. Ye Hongyi's Iron Blood Army awaited them, leading to a fierce battle. The allied forces, their morale surging, pushed through the defenses and reached Ye Hongyi's main hall. Ye Hongyi, enraged, commanded Thousand Faces to attack Ye Junqing, but Thousand Faces was quickly dispatched.

Ye Junqing then publicly exposed Ye Hongyi's true identity, declaring he was not of royal blood but the illegitimate son of Queen Mother Zhuang and General Luo Bin. He revealed that Ye Hongyi had murdered his biological father, General Luo Bin, and deliberately set a fire to destroy all evidence of his true parentage.

Yao Mowan produced the Book of Luo Family Tree as irrefutable proof, stating that all male descendants of the Luo family bore a red birthmark on their left arm, challenging Ye Hongyi to reveal his own. Ye Hongyi furiously denied the accusations and tried to order his hesitant soldiers to attack. Ye Junqing continued, condemning Ye Hongyi's inhumane brutality, recounting how he had sacrificed kin and subjects alike to maintain his power.

Enraged, Ye Hongyi lunged at Ye Junqing with a sword, but a soldier, disgusted by Ye Hongyi's cruelty, stabbed him from behind. Ye Hongyi collapsed, spitting blood, his left arm's red birthmark visible beneath an old burn scar. Following Ye Hongyi's death, Ye Junqing declared that all those within Chu territory who voluntarily surrendered would be protected by the volunteer army. The assembled officials and soldiers immediately knelt, cheering "Long Live Prince Su!"

Afterwards, Yao Mowan visited a secret chamber where Yao Moxin's original body lay. She mused about her complex identity, wondering whether to call the dormant woman Mo Xin or Mo Wan, as her consciousness was that of Yao Moxin, currently inhabiting Yao Mowan's body. She expressed a wish for her sister (Yao Moxin's consciousness) to awaken, even if it meant facing Moxin's anger and blame.

Later that night, Ye Junqing quietly entered Yao Mowan's room, embracing her and carrying her to bed. Yao Mowan, in a moment of vulnerability, asked him whom he would choose if Yao Moxin were still alive. Ye Junqing gently dismissed her question, affirming that regardless of who she had been or who she would become, in that very moment, she was his woman. They then shared a passionate embrace and kiss.

Sometime later, Chu Mo Bei prepared to depart, bidding farewell to Ye Junqing and Han Jinyi. He stated that he had fulfilled his promise and had no reason to linger in Chu. Ye Junqing thanked him, pledging Chu's unwavering support to Shu should they ever need it. Han Jinyi asked if Chu Mo Bei would wait to say goodbye to Yao Mowan, but Chu Mo Bei chose to avoid a sorrowful parting, acknowledging the inevitability of goodbyes.

However, as he was about to leave, Yao Mowan emerged. They shared a final, meaningful embrace and bid each other farewell. At the Yao Residence, preparations were in full swing for Ting Yue's wedding to Ben Lei. Yao Mowan, treating Ting Yue like a beloved younger sister, adorned her with a delicate hairpin, wishing her and Ben Lei a lifetime of peace, happiness, and prosperity.

Ting Yue tearfully expressed her reluctance to leave, but Yao Mowan comforted her, declaring that by marrying from the Yao Residence, Ting Yue was now officially her kin. She playfully warned that if Ben Lei ever dared to bully Ting Yue, she would personally teach him a lesson. Later, Ye Junqing found Yao Mowan. He gently pulled her into his arms, telling her how he had dreamt of this peaceful scene countless times and feared it would vanish. He reassured her that it was real, promising to make their shared dreams, including a grand wedding, come true.

Young Master Ben Lei was urged to change into his wedding suit as the auspicious hour for his marriage to Ting Yue was approaching. Yao Mowan helped Ben Lei with his jacket, complimenting his appearance and warning him to treat Ting Yue well, or she would be held responsible, as Ting Yue was her biological sister. Ben Lei assured Yao Mowan that marrying Ting Yue was a great blessing and he would certainly cherish her.

However, a servant soon reported that Ting Yue had suffered an accident. Everyone rushed outside to find Ting Yue in her wedding dress, covered in blood and already without breath. Ben Lei cradled her, heartbroken, as she had already passed. Distraught, he declared that he didn't care about auspicious hours, vowing to take Ting Yue as his wife for eternity, never to leave or forsake her.

He completed the remaining kowtows on her behalf, explaining to the onlookers that his wife was unwell. Afterward, Ben Lei drowned his sorrow in alcohol, consumed by the pain of losing his beloved wife and feeling he had failed to protect her. Later, Moxin (in Yao Mowan's body) woke from a nightmare, calling out Ting Yue's name, with Night Junqing by her side.

She questioned why he was there, and he explained his worry for her after Ting Yue's tragic death. Moxin expressed her determination to avenge Ting Yue. When Moxin suggested he attend to urgent state affairs, Night Junqing insisted that she was his priority. He then offered her a bowl of white fungus soup he had personally stewed.

Moxin playfully bit his arm, leaving a mark, and explained it was a reminder to any future concubines that only she could be so unrestrained with the emperor. Night Junqing solemnly promised to never take another concubine, declaring his eternal love for her until death. Meanwhile, Thousand Faces, who was thought to be dead, was still alive and orchestrating assassinations. Night Junqing had anticipated Thousand Faces's actions.

When news of various generals being killed at different locations but around the same time emerged, Night Junqing deduced that only the Iron Blood Army possessed the capability to execute such a coordinated attack. He set a trap, allowing Thousand Faces to believe he was targeting General Wei. Night Junqing confronted Thousand Faces, exposing his ruse.

Thousand Faces accused Night Junqing of treason, but Night Junqing countered that he was fighting against Night Hongyi's tyranny, not the Kingdom of Chu itself, and that Night Hongyi's reign was doomed. Night Junqing offered Thousand Faces a chance to surrender, but Thousand Faces, defiant, refused to yield even unto death. After a struggle, Night Junqing captured him, realizing Thousand Faces wouldn't betray his master.

Knowing that death would be an easy escape for him, Night Junqing decided to keep him alive. At the same time, Moxin (in Yao Mowan's body) was in a room, examining a portrait of Yao Moxin that Night Junqing had painted. Unbeknownst to her, Night Hongyi, disguised as Night Junqing, approached from behind and embraced her.

Moxin, believing it was Night Junqing, reflected on the differences between his portrait of Moxin, which captured her essence and emotion, and Night Hongyi's portrait, which emphasized regality and power. She mused that Night Hongyi was too consumed by power and control, mistaking possessiveness for love, and that his eventual downfall was a consequence of his own actions. Night Hongyi, struggling to maintain his disguise, listened to her words.

He hinted at feeling pity for Night Hongyi, which Moxin found uncharacteristic of Night Junqing. She reaffirmed her unwavering love for Night Junqing, envisioning a future where they would have many children and rule the Kingdom of Chu together, while Night Hongyi would be relegated to the scorn of history. As Night Hongyi considered attacking Moxin, Yin Xue arrived, reporting the capture of Thousand Faces's accomplices and questioning Night Junqing's presence.

Night Hongyi quickly sent Yin Xue away, directing her to assist Han Jinyi in the prison. Moxin (in Yao Mowan's body) then decided to reveal the truth to "Night Junqing" and led him to a hidden ice coffin containing Yao Moxin's original body. She confessed that her (Moxin's) own body had been hidden there since she entered the palace, a secret she had kept from Night Junqing to prevent him from acting impulsively.

As she spoke, Yao Moxin's original body in the ice coffin awakened, and the spirit of Yao Mowan regained consciousness within it. Moxin (in Yao Mowan's body) then explained their body-swapping predicament to her sister. " Night Junqing" (who was actually Night Hongyi) was stunned to realize that "Yao Mowan" was actually Yao Moxin's spirit, and that Yao Moxin's true body had just awakened with Yao Mowan's spirit.

Enraged by what he perceived as Moxin's betrayal, he choked Moxin (in Yao Mowan's body) and then knocked out Yao Mowan (in Yao Moxin's original body). He tearfully recounted his daily repentance and self-reproach for his past misdeeds, feeling that Moxin had manipulated his feelings and stabbed him in the back. As Moxin (in Yao Mowan's body) tried to console her sister, Night Hongyi tore off his mask, revealing his true face.

He confirmed that the Night Hongyi killed previously had been a mere decoy. He then demanded to know if Moxin had ever truly loved him, to which Moxin (in Yao Mowan's body) retorted that her love for him had long been replaced by hatred, a consequence of his own actions. Meanwhile, Night Junqing and his allies were interrogating Thousand Faces.

Ben Lei, furious, beat Thousand Faces, who callously admitted to accidentally killing Ting Yue while attempting to assassinate Moxin, claiming Ting Yue's death was worthwhile for the pain it caused them. A soldier then delivered a note found in Thousand Faces's hiding place. Night Junqing immediately recognized Night Hongyi's handwriting and realized he was alive and that Thousand Faces's capture was a diversion to buy him time.

Fearing for Moxin's safety, Night Junqing and Han Jinyi rushed to the secret chamber, only to find the ice coffin empty. Another note from Night Hongyi instructed Night Junqing to meet him alone at Zijin Peak, or both Moxin (in Yao Mowan's body) and Yao Mowan (in Yao Moxin's original body) would die. Night Junqing arrived at Zijin Peak, where Night Hongyi was holding both Moxin (in Yao Mowan's body) and Yao Mowan (in Yao Moxin's original body) hostage.

Night Junqing pleaded with Night Hongyi to release them, promising to agree to anything. Night Hongyi, consumed by hatred, refused to negotiate, mocking the lovers and vowing to make them experience the agony of losing everything. He then cruelly demanded that Yao Mowan (in Yao Moxin's original body) push Night Junqing off the cliff, threatening to kill Moxin (in Yao Mowan's body) if she refused.

As Night Junqing braced himself for death, Moxin (in Yao Mowan's body) declared that it was her turn to protect her sister. With a fierce resolve, she grabbed Night Hongyi and pulled him off the cliff, sacrificing herself to ensure his demise. Both plunged into the abyss. Following Night Hongyi's death, Night Junqing ascended to the throne of the Kingdom of Chu. Moxin, in Yao Mowan's body, stood by his side as his Empress during the coronation ceremony.

They reflected on the numerous hardships and trials they had endured, acknowledging the preciousness of their love. Night Junqing vowed that they would rule the Kingdom of Chu together. Five years later, the Emperor and Empress revisited a cherished location.

Moxin mused that meeting Night Junqing was destiny, loving him was the karma of a past life, and their arduous journey had been a form of spiritual cultivation, all for the sake of a world where she could be with him. Night Junqing gently caressed her hair, promising to love her just as deeply, even when her hair turned white, and to grow old together.

As they shared a tender kiss, their young son ran up to them, interrupting their moment. They lovingly embraced their child, then joined him to fly kites, finally living a peaceful and joyful life as a family, ruling the Kingdom of Chu together.