Shadow Love Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Shadow Love Synopsis
General Li Shuang of Tai Jin is a valiant and battle-hardened warrior, ordered to uncover a hidden traitor within one month. One day, she rescues a gravely injured man who has lost all memory and brings him back to her camp. The man begs to stay by her side and follow her into battle. Li Shuang grants him the name Jin An, symbolizing everlasting peace for Tai Jin.
Together, they expose the traitor, but soon face the schemes of a newly appointed military inspector as well as repeated incursions from the neighboring state of Da Yao. With his extraordinary intelligence, Jin An helps Li Shuang overcome countless dangers, and the two gradually fall in love. As Jin An’s memories return, he discovers that he is in fact the Prince Zhen Shi of Da Yao. Just as war between the two nations is about to break out, the lovers are forced to face each other as enemies. Yet, weary of endless bloodshed, they choose to join forces to resolve the crisis between their countries and bring peace and stability to the people.
Shadow Love Recap
Episode 1 Recap
General Li Shuang of Taijin, a valiant warrior, once shared a profound bond with a man. Neither remembered their own birthday, so they declared that day as their shared birth anniversary, vowing not to be born on the same day but to die on the same day, sharing the same grave in death. This cherished memory, however, became an enduring sorrow for Li Shuang, as she often wished time could have frozen at that beautiful moment.
Border conflicts between Taijin and Yao State were frequent, causing instability in the imperial court. Consort Qin of Yao State manipulated Emperor Duan Aoze, intending to implant the legendary Jade Linglong, an ancient and powerful evil artifact, into his body. This artifact, once inside, could transform a living person into an obedient shadow puppet, loyal to its blood master for eternity, with its memories erased. On that very night, General Li Shuang led her Changfeng Army in a surprise attack.
Seizing the opportunity, Prince Annan, Duan Aodeng, launched his own assault on Lucheng. Receiving a distress signal from Lucheng, Li Shuang decided to retreat immediately to prevent the Yao Army from encircling her forces on their return route. Duan Aodeng, meanwhile, learned that Consort Qin had taken the Emperor out of the palace. He resolved to go after them alone, determined to keep the Emperor's absence a secret, while his army was ordered to capture Li Shuang alive.
Consort Qin used cruel methods to perform a forbidden technique on Duan Aoze. Just as she was about to complete her ritual, Duan Aodeng arrived to intervene. Duan Aoze, though under Consort Qin’s influence, pleaded for Duan Aodeng's life, stating that the grudge between Consort Qin and himself had nothing to do with Duan Aodeng. Consort Qin, however, was protected by a powerful, high-level practitioner named Jin Wujian, whose vicious magic was too potent for Duan Aodeng to overcome.
Duan Aodeng was severely wounded and fell unconscious. Believing Duan Aodeng was the reason Duan Aoze did not reciprocate her love, Consort Qin ordered Jin Wujian to implant the Jade Linglong into Duan Aodeng instead. However, the Jade Linglong had not yet formed a blood contract, causing it to lose control after entering Duan Aodeng's body. The chaotic power of the artifact eliminated Jin Wujian and Consort Qin's guards.
Duan Aodeng's body was wracked with excruciating pain, and he tumbled off a cliff. As the Yao Army pursued Li Shuang, aiming to capture her alive, she found herself cornered at a cliff's edge. At that moment, the dormant Duan Aodeng, influenced by Jade Linglong, sensed Li Shuang's blood. Jade Linglong then formed a blood contract with Li Shuang, surged out, and saved her from the fall. At this point, Duan Aodeng's body was that of a child.
Li Shuang observed the unconscious child, perplexed by his rapid heartbeat. Upon returning, Li Shuang's father, Grand General Li Wei, expressed concern about a spy within the military, as their flawless night raid plan had been countered, suggesting the enemy was prepared. He instructed Li Shuang to investigate thoroughly. Duan Aodeng, now in Li Shuang's care, refused to speak to anyone else but seemed to calm down in her presence.
Li Shuang questioned why Duan Aodeng, a small child, had such immense strength and why he had saved her. Duan Aodeng, equally bewildered, confessed he remembered nothing from that day, only that he felt a profound sense of calm and relief whenever she was near. Recognizing his memory loss, Duan Aodeng decided to remain by Li Shuang's side under the guise of a young boy, believing it safer for him given the unclear situation.
Li Shuang speculated that Duan Aodeng might have lost his memory due to trauma from the ongoing war, perhaps suffering hardships like many others. Later, Duan Aodeng sensed Li Shuang's approach and eagerly emerged from the tent. He had altered the oversized clothes Li Shuang provided, making them fit better. He tried to lift Li Shuang's sword, finding it incredibly heavy, which surprised Li Shuang, given his earlier display of strength.
Duan Aodeng insisted he truly had no memory of how he acquired such power or why he was in the forest. Li Shuang, suspecting his feigned weakness and calculating manner, questioned his true intentions for being at the Changfeng Army camp, noting that his thoughts and actions seemed meticulously trained for a child. Duan Aodeng, feeling accused, argued that if he had ulterior motives, he would have simply left her to die in the forest.
He then asked Li Shuang if she had heard of any methods to turn old into young. Li Shuang, dismissing his question by saying she was a general, not a charlatan, offered him a piece of candy, discreetly, as she had issued a military order prohibiting him from eating due to his prior mischief. As rain began to fall, Li Shuang expressed hope for a bountiful harvest and lasting peace, wishing an end to suffering for the common people.
Duan Aodeng, moved by her words, held an umbrella over her and gently took her hand. That night, while Li Shuang was on patrol, Duan Aodeng grew restless and distressed. Catching his reflection in a puddle, he saw his body had returned to its adult form. Only after smelling the candy Li Shuang had given him did he fall into a deep sleep, transforming back into a child by morning.
He then returned to the Changfeng Army camp, determined to see Li Shuang. He explained that he had no home to return to since his memory was gone, and he felt safe only when he was with her. He offered to become her soldier. Other soldiers scoffed at the idea of such a small child joining the ranks, reminding him that his "lucky" save in the forest was merely a fluke and his skills were amateur.
Duan Aodeng challenged them, claiming his "amateur skills" were enough to defeat them. After a quick skirmish, Li Shuang accepted his offer, emphasizing that he must abide by military rules and would face military law for any transgressions. When asked for his name, Duan Aodeng admitted he didn't know it. One soldier joked about calling him "Cow Dung," but Li Shuang named him Jin'an, wishing for Taijin's lasting peace and prosperity.
She explained that despite the many mysteries surrounding him, his remarkable strength and intelligence made him an asset, and keeping him close would allow her to uncover his identity and potentially harness his abilities for the Changfeng Army, which would be like adding wings to a tiger.
Episode 2 Recap
The Taijin Emperor expressed his severe displeasure with Li Wei and Li Shuang after the Changfeng Army's night raid on Lucheng was met with a precise ambush by the Yao Army. He accused Li Wei of either commanding poorly or having a spy in his ranks, and chastised Li Shuang for her reckless charge, stating that if Lucheng had fallen, executing them all would not suffice to appease public anger.
Li Wei humbly admitted his guilt but defended his daughter, explaining that her actions were an authorized, desperate measure taken in a moment of crisis. Crown Prince Su Muyang also spoke in defense of General Li, highlighting his years of service to the Changfeng Army, his countless victories, and the fact that Lucheng had been successfully defended.
However, Prince Su Muli countered, pointing out that five thousand soldiers had perished, questioning whether it could truly be called a victory, and insinuating that the Crown Prince was showing favoritism to the Li family due to old ties. A senior minister also interceded, acknowledging the heavy losses but emphasizing General Li's long-standing dedication to defending Taijin's borders. The Emperor, swayed by these pleas and Li Wei's service, decided to let the matter rest for now.
He ordered Li Wei to remain under house arrest in the capital and tasked Li Shuang with investigating the spy within the army, giving her a deadline of half a month. Li Wei vowed to accept full responsibility if she failed. Li Shuang's investigation into the movements of soldiers' families revealed that only one, Deputy General Huo Du's family, had fled the capital and gone missing.
She noted that Huo Du had feigned illness to avoid the Battle of Lucheng, which struck her as too coincidental given the Yao Army's preparedness. With the half-month deadline looming, Li Shuang felt a pressing urgency to unmask the traitor to ensure her father's safety. Meanwhile, Crown Prince Su Muyang, cautious of the Emperor's suspicions towards the Li family, arranged for Li Ting to be discreetly escorted out of the capital in a carriage.
When stopped by guards, Su Muyang's identity allowed them to pass. Li Ting was going to Lucheng to visit Li Shuang. Su Muyang brought Li Shuang's favorite biography scrolls, asking Li Ting to deliver them, suggesting he felt unworthy to meet her himself. Late that night in the Changfeng Army camp, Jin An, whose "thousand-mile ear" allowed him to hear things from afar, suddenly noticed the sound of flying birds, which he had never heard before in the camp.
He then overheard a spy's transaction, realizing that Li Shuang's previous wariness of him was due to the actual presence of a spy in the Changfeng Army. Li Shuang's subordinate, who had been following Huo Du and lost track of him in the dense forest, later reported seeing Jin An return with Huo Du, immediately suspecting Jin An.
However, Jin An came to Li Shuang with irrefutable evidence of Huo Du's treason and collusion with the Yao, wanting to prove that keeping him by her side was the right decision. Li Shuang ordered Huo Du's arrest, but he had already escaped after stealing valuables. Just as they were pursuing Huo Du, news arrived that Li Ting had been abducted by bandits on his way to the camp.
Li Shuang immediately decided to go alone to rescue Li Ting, despite Jin An's insistence on joining her, as she deemed it too dangerous for him, a child. Li Ting had been captured by bandits led by chieftain Ouyang Jun. Huo Du had allied with Ouyang Jun and was using Li Ting as a hostage to force Li Shuang to appear.
When Li Shuang arrived, she declared that she was Li Wei's adopted daughter and had no blood relation to Li Ting, greatly shocking him. To the bandits' surprise, Li Shuang then shot an arrow into Li Ting's chest. Using the distraction, she swiftly pulled him over with a rope, ordered her accompanying soldiers to escort him back to the residence, and prepared to fight the bandits alone.
Meanwhile, back in the camp, Jin An seemed to sense Li Shuang was in danger and once again experienced a surge of immense power, which he had previously gained after an accidental impact to his "Lingxu acupoint." As Li Shuang struggled against the overwhelming numbers, Li Ting, who had been sent back, miraculously reappeared in his adult form and saved her, driving away the bandits with mysterious and powerful abilities.
Li Shuang looked at him, feeling a sense of unfamiliarity, unsure of his true identity. The two hid in a room as arrows continued to rain down. Jin An, who had secretly followed Li Shuang, watched her bleeding from a wound on her lip and felt a sudden, inexplicable craving for her blood. Jin An suggested they leave, but Li Shuang refused, determined not to let Huo Du escape.
Jin An then helped Li Shuang capture Huo Du, telling him to follow a certain path to the Changfeng Army camp. Li Shuang became suspicious of Jin An's knowledge of the path and questioned his true identity. Unexpectedly, Jin An lost control again, covering Li Shuang's mouth as his craving for her blood intensified. After Jin An fled in his uncontrolled state, Li Shuang returned to the Changfeng Army camp.
Her first action was to check on Jin An, only to find him transformed back into his child's appearance. Li Shuang noticed that the distinct pattern on Jin An's back was identical to the mysterious man who had saved her earlier. Observing their similar features, she wondered if the man might be Jin An's father. Jin An quickly denied knowing the man.
Soon after, Li Ting, who had been safely returned to the camp, began to complain fiercely about Li Shuang's actions earlier. Li Shuang explained that shooting him was merely a desperate measure, an "expedient." She only dared to do so because she saw he was wearing a protective mirror. Jin An, hearing their argument, came to check on them.
He shared his insight that while Li Ting understood Li Shuang's intentions, words are often harder to express between the closest of loved ones. Suddenly, Jin An collapsed, his body limp. Li Shuang checked him and found he had a high fever, immediately calling for the military doctor.
Episode 3 Recap
Jin'an awoke to find Li Shuang diligently by his side, realizing that her earlier actions concerning Li Ting were not to harm him, but rather to save him with utmost certainty. He also deduced that her late-night wakefulness stemmed from her concern for Li Ting. Li Shuang revealed her reasons for bringing Jin'an back, sharing that she, like him, had been a displaced orphan in her youth until Grand General Li Wei took her in.
Their sibling bond, she admitted, was superficial. She further explained that Li Wei had taught her not to over-explain her words or deeds, as people often only care about results, and that rescuing Li Ting was her sole priority. Jin'an, observing her deep care for Li Ting despite his misunderstanding, asked if she felt wronged.
Li Shuang contrasted their personalities, noting that while both were adopted, Jin'an was bold, whereas she had to be cautious and couldn't afford to feel sorry for herself. She then instructed Jin'an, who was still recovering and feeling shy, to share her bed for the night. Meanwhile, a guard in the Changfeng Army camp was mysteriously killed, allowing Jin Wujian to infiltrate, disguised as a soldier. Later that night, Jin'an, while asleep, suddenly transformed into an adult.
Li Shuang, startled, confronted him with a drawn sword, demanding his identity. Jin'an desperately tried to convince her that he was still Jin'an, even pointing to his clothes. Li Shuang threatened him, warning against any improper behavior, but Jin'an insisted that if an intruder had truly entered, she, as a general, would have known.
He further tried to prove his identity by offering to show his pants, but Li Shuang curtly told him to cover up, still demanding an explanation for his transformation, which Jin'an claimed not to know. Just then, a subordinate called for Li Shuang. She quickly silenced Jin'an, threatening him with severe punishment if anyone discovered an unclothed man in her room, and he quickly hid under the covers.
As Li Shuang opened her tent, Jin Wujian, calling her "Jade Linglong," launched a surprise attack with his controlled soldiers, seemingly targeting her. Jin'an attempted to intervene but found himself inexplicably devoid of strength, leaving him vulnerable to capture. He was nearly abducted. During the skirmish, someone instructed Li Shuang to strike the attackers' foreheads. Shortly after, a silver needle was inadvertently pulled from Jin'an's head, which saved him.
Outside, the soldiers speculated that someone was using strange, manipulative methods, possibly to rescue Huo Du, and noted the suspicious, unclothed man in Li Shuang's tent. Li Shuang, understanding the gravity of the situation, ordered Deputy General Luo to take the controlled soldiers to Lu Xin's clinic, to fortify the camp, and to keep Huo Du under even tighter surveillance. Returning to her room, Li Shuang angrily confronted Jin'an, who lamented his newfound weakness, claiming it made him harmless.
She questioned how he knew to target the soldiers' foreheads, and he explained seeing a strange needle in the back of their heads. They both realized the attackers had specifically targeted Jin'an, seeking to capture him without causing harm, which struck them as peculiar. Jin'an then recalled a flash of memory from his escape, hinting at a stone chamber, which he believed was near where Li Shuang found him.
Li Shuang declared her intention to take him to search for his origin, vowing to show no mercy if he proved to be suspicious. Jin'an, accepting his fate, told her she could reclaim his life at any time. Unbeknownst to them, Jin Wujian discovered Li Shuang was taking Jin'an into the Barren Forest and had already set up a trap. Along their journey into the forest, Jin'an complained about the bumpy ride.
Li Shuang, noting recently broken branches, deduced that Jin'an might have been in his adult form when he first fled through there. Upon reaching a secret tunnel entrance, Jin'an felt a strong sense of familiarity. Li Shuang, opting to investigate, split her troops, sending Ji Ran with one group while she and Jin'an entered the tunnel. During this time, Huo Du was rescued from the Changfeng Army camp, prompting Li Ting to pursue him.
Inside the cave, Jin'an and Li Shuang discovered evidence of a fierce battle. Suddenly, a strange female corpse, seemingly reanimated, abducted Jin'an. Ji Ran and his men, hearing the commotion, rushed in as Li Shuang gave chase. Jin'an, regaining his strength, managed to kill the female corpse. Meanwhile, Li Ting, in his pursuit of Huo Du, was captured by him, a sight Jin'an witnessed. As Li Shuang arrived, Huo Du threatened her with Li Ting's life, demanding his freedom.
Jin'an, using his last reserves of power, killed Huo Du. Li Shuang decided to secretly send Jin'an to the General's Residence. In Lucheng, Li Shuang arrived at the General's Residence, where she had Jin'an secretly placed in a side room and instructed her officers to reinforce security, ensuring no word of his presence leaked out. Lu Xin was already tending to Jin'an.
Upon seeing him, Lu Xin, intrigued by his many injuries yet agile movements, questioned his identity and expressed her astonishment at his transformation from a child, eagerly asking him to demonstrate it. Jin'an, distressed, lamented that his extraordinary strength and heightened senses had vanished again, questioning why this was happening to him. Lu Xin, dismissively telling him it was "none of his business," urged him to first drink a tonic to strengthen his body, asserting her authority as his physician.
Jin'an then inquired about Li Shuang's well-being. Lu Xin, in turn, challenged him to focus on his own strange condition and the mystery of his past. With a confident air, Lu Xin, who claimed to be the best physician in Lucheng, assured Jin'an that she could cure him, promising to treat his strange illness slowly after he consumed his tonic. Shortly after, Li Ting woke up, appearing unrepentant and suggesting Li Shuang should have let him die.
Li Shuang, furious, chastised him with a whip, delivering three lashes: the first for his reckless pursuit of glory, which endangered himself and complicated their father's situation; the second for his unworthiness in rank, his constant complaints, and his disrespectful behavior towards soldiers, which shamed the Li family; and the third for his disrespect towards her as his elder, reminding him that while she was not Li Wei's biological daughter, she was still his, and Li Ting must respect Li Wei's decisions.
Li Ting, defiant, urged her to whip him to death if she truly believed him to be disloyal and unfilial. Li Shuang then inflicted a fourth lash upon herself, admitting that she was at fault for Li Ting's current state, having failed to guide him properly since childhood. Lu Xin, witnessing this, tended to Li Shuang's wounds, remarking on Li Ting's immaturity and asking about Jin'an.
Lu Xin described Jin'an's condition as unique and unprecedented in medical texts, requiring thorough study but prioritizing his physical recovery. She then expressed her astonishment at the series of bizarre events—soldiers with sealed acupoints, a reanimated female corpse, and Jin'an's transformations—joking whether Li Shuang was running the Changfeng Army or the legendary Wuling Mountain. Li Shuang, unfamiliar with Wuling Mountain, asked for details.
Lu Xin explained it as a sacred place for medical practitioners, known for miraculous healing, but also noted its long-standing isolation from the world. Li Shuang mused that finding Wuling Mountain might clarify everything. Lu Xin, confident in her abilities, reassured her that Jin'an's condition was curable, and once he remembered his past, the truth would be revealed. Accepting this, Li Shuang thanked Lu Xin and offered an escort back.
Lu Xin, however, preferred to assist Ji Ran at the camp, mentioning their dwindling supply of hemostatic herbs. Li Shuang then gave Lu Xin some premium medicine for Li Ting and instructed her to keep a close eye on Jin'an until she returned in a couple of days.
Episode 4 Recap
Confined in a guarded room, Jin'an felt fearful. He questioned the female warrior watching him about his confinement, having been told he was a "suspicious man." His concerns escalated after a female doctor showed unusual curiosity about his physical changes, leading him to suspect he wasn't in the General's Residence at all, but rather with people allied to those from the stone chamber.
Feigning compliance, he tricked his guard to attempt an escape, only to be chased by the hammer-wielding warrior, Qiao'er. He cried out for help when he saw Li Shuang. Upon Li Shuang's arrival, Jin'an expressed his relief. He confessed that the death of Huo Du was an accident, an act of self-defense to save Li Ting. Li Shuang, observing his irregular pulse and shifty eyes, pressed him for the full truth.
Jin'an revealed his body's unpredictable nature, where his supernatural strength would surge and wane, making him either weak or capable of killing with his bare hands, leading him to believe he might have been responsible for the destruction in the stone chamber. He further suggested that the enchantress in the stone chamber, a manipulated corpse, was similar to the two soldiers in the camp, indicating he might have been controlled by the same hidden power and narrowly escaped.
Li Shuang, visibly concerned, pondered if Lu Xin's claims about Wuling Mountain were indeed true. Despite Jin'an's pleas of honesty, Li Shuang, prioritizing the safety of her household, tested him by swiftly punching him in the eye. Afterward, she thanked him for saving her and Li Ting, assuring him he was not a monster and should remain true to himself.
She instructed him to stay in the residence to recover, promising to ask Lu Xin for circulation medicine during her next visit. Once Li Shuang left, Jin'an touched his sore eye, surprised by the quickness of her strike. Later, Li Shuang hesitated outside Li Ting's room, holding medicine and unsure whether to enter. Jin'an, noticing her dilemma, offered to help, stating that Li Ting was grown and should handle his own medicine.
Li Ting was surprised to see a man in the General's residence, which was full of women. Although Li Ting often argued with Li Shuang, he consistently defended her as his sister in front of outsiders. Relieved to know Li Ting was well, Li Shuang left. Jin'an followed her, explaining that he only mentioned her name to distract Li Ting.
As the wind picked up, Li Shuang gently touched the fallen petals in the courtyard, and Jin'an, observing her, found himself quietly drawn to her, believing her to be a truly good person. Meanwhile, Lu Xin arrived at the military camp to deliver hemostatic herbs, but her true intention was to approach Captain Ji Ran. The soldiers openly admired her beauty and teased Ji Ran about his good fortune.
Lu Xin, eagerly greeting Ji Ran, noted his late return and her long wait. However, Ji Ran remained distant, telling her a military camp was no place for a lady and politely asking her to leave. Undeterred, Lu Xin continued her efforts to gain his favor by washing his clothes and even mending a hole in his undergarment, which again became a topic of gossip among the soldiers.
Ji Ran was clearly displeased, rebuking her for her lack of shame and insisting on maintaining proper boundaries between men and women. He pushed her away, causing her to drop the laundry, and urged her to show more self-respect. Lu Xin pursued him, confessing her feelings and her frustration with his coldness. Ji Ran gently explained that her actions were not the issue, but his own dedication to serving the country left no room for personal romance.
He reiterated his request for her to leave the military camp. Li Shuang tasked her subordinate with sending a memorial and Huo Du's body to the Emperor for judgment, stating that Huo Du, a rebel, had died accidentally while resisting arrest. Her subordinate cautiously suggested handing over Jin'an to quell potential criticism from the court, but Li Shuang firmly rejected the idea, asserting that all lives were equal and she would not falsely accuse anyone without concrete proof.
Following the former Emperor's demise and the mysterious "disappearance" of Prince Annan, Empress Dowager Qin, with her young son now on the imperial throne, assumed control, rallying the ministers to avenge the late Emperor and Prince Annan. Privately, Empress Dowager Qin kept an unconscious Duan Aoze imprisoned, holding onto the hope of his recovery. She pressed Jin Wujian, asking why Duan Aoze remained unresponsive.
Jin Wujian revealed that the interrupted integration of the Jade Linglong meant he couldn't fully revive Duan Aoze by conventional means. Desperate, Empress Dowager Qin pleaded with him, reminding him of his Wuling Mountain origins and his creation of a "shadow puppet." Jin Wujian then offered a solution: the "Double-Blossom Wine."
If they mixed their blood into the wine and drank it, their lives would be bound together, allowing Duan Aoze to be revived at the cost of her life being irrevocably tied to his. Empress Dowager Qin, however, declared this shared fate was exactly what she desired. Li Shuang decided to go in disguise to help rebuild the war-torn villages.
Jin'an, having eavesdropped, insisted on accompanying her, citing his familiarity with her and his discomfort with the intimidating members of her residence. Li Shuang, weighing his points and considering her subordinate's observation that taking a potential spy out might expose him more easily, as well as her own concern that his unpredictable powers could resurface, agreed. She proposed they pose as a "displaced couple" to better gain the villagers' trust.
However, after they donned rough, tattered clothing and entered a devastated village, Li Shuang introduced Jin'an as her simple-minded younger brother, explaining that he was hungry and thirsty, and that she was a former house builder offering to help rebuild the village for free with her "men" who would arrive the next day. Jin'an, playing his part, later questioned Li Shuang privately about the change from "husband" to "simple-minded younger brother," suggesting he could even be her older brother.
Li Shuang simply stated that his previous remarks about clothing had led her to believe he lacked "masculinity," making it difficult to present him as her husband or older brother. Li Shuang then had Jin'an work with Ji Ran and his men, hoping to ascertain if his supernatural strength was truly gone. However, Jin'an, physically weak, quickly collapsed from fatigue while trying to move wood. Auntie Huang diagnosed him with Qi deficiency and overwork.
That evening, Jin'an asked Li Shuang to stay with him in the house, arguing it was improper for her, a lady, to sleep in the communal outdoor area with the men. Li Shuang, however, insisted they were "brothers" and should share hardships. Later, unable to sleep due to the snoring outside, Li Shuang found Jin'an awake in the house.
She confessed that his situation reminded her of her own childhood, when she longed for companionship, and shared that she carried candy as a way to "dissolve the bitterness inside" when facing life's troubles. Despite their closeness, Jin'an still felt an inexplicable uneasiness, suspecting her "aura" had become impure from being with the soldiers, and resolved to find a solution.
He then tried to persuade her to share his bed, reminding her of their past shared sleeping arrangements, but Li Shuang quickly silenced him, instructing him to turn over and sleep.
Episode 5 Recap
At the Imperial Palace in Xianyang, the Emperor intended to close the spy case now that the spy was dead. However, Su Muli stepped forward to urge the Emperor to reconsider, arguing that a dead man could not defend himself and that the so-called treasonous letters might have been fabricated.
He further suggested that Li Shuang might be abusing her power to persecute her opponents, especially since Huo Du, the Military Supervisor of the Changfeng Army, was conveniently labeled a spy. Su Muyang interjected, defending the Li family's long history of loyalty and asserting they would never commit such a despicable act. Su Muli then revealed that Li Wei's son, Li Ting, had taken Su Muyang's carriage to leave the capital for the border, subtly implying a conspiracy.
The Emperor, surprised by this information, questioned whether Li Ting had special permission to leave or if General Li was trying to control the border troops for personal gain. Su Muyang tried to explain Li Ting's actions as natural filial piety, but the Emperor remained unconvinced.
The Emperor decided that the spy case remained inconclusive and issued a decree: Li Wei was stripped of his rank as General of Cavalry and demoted to Military Protector, and the Li family in the capital was forbidden from leaving without summons. Su Muli praised the Emperor's wisdom. Meanwhile, Li Shuang’s subordinates were wary of Jin'an, who was observed carrying dried leaves and fresh flowers, suspecting he might be a spy trying to send coded messages.
Li Shuang dismissed their concerns, telling them to focus on their work. Jin'an then found Li Shuang and proudly showed her a flower bed he had meticulously arranged for her, explaining that the dried leaves underneath would keep it dry and warm, and the surrounding flowers would aid sleep. He also prepared a similar bed for himself. Li Shuang chided him for not focusing on proper duties, but Jin'an argued that a general needs good rest.
He then presented her with wine he had obtained from Auntie Huang by helping her plow a field. Li Shuang was touched and drank the entire quantity, quickly falling into a drunken sleep. As Jin'an lay beside her, he still felt a persistent ache in his body and wondered if what he truly needed was blood, recalling a previous instance where it had brought him stability.
Later that night, Jin'an, in his desperate need, went into a chicken coop, causing a ruckus. Auntie Huang, hearing the commotion, rushed over and was horrified to see blood on Jin'an’s mouth. She immediately ran out, then brought Jin'an to Li Shuang, urging her not to argue with the simple-minded young man. Li Shuang, however, demanded to know why Jin'an was stealing chickens in the middle of the night.
Jin'an hesitated, considering whether to reveal his true condition, but fearing Li Shuang’s reaction, he simply claimed he was hungry. Li Shuang later provided a large amount of food to the villagers, who hailed her as a savior. Overwhelmed by guilt, Li Shuang hid, feeling that the villagers' gratitude was undeserved, as she was the one who had brought ruin to their lives, making their current happiness feel like a deception. Jin'an found her, understanding her distress.
He comforted her, reminding her that she had done her best to make amends, and that as a general, the decisions of war were not hers to make. He pointed out that their current joy was a direct result of her efforts. As they watched shooting stars, Jin'an encouraged Li Shuang to make a wish. She wished for a world free of war and for lasting peace for its people. Despite having consumed some blood, Jin'an still felt unwell.
He resolved not to take advantage of Li Shuang’s vulnerability, choosing to endure the pain and find a solution while staying by her side. Upon returning to the military camp, Li Shuang received urgent news from the capital. Military Advisor Qin and other subordinates informed her of Li Wei’s demotion and the Li family’s precarious situation.
They pressed her to hand over Jin'an, arguing that his unauthorized killing of Huo Du was a grave offense and that failing to surrender him would lead to the destruction of the Li family and the Changfeng Army. Li Shuang, however, was reluctant to do so. Back at the General’s Residence, a restless Jin'an sought tasks to occupy himself. Li Shuang suddenly asked if he would be willing to die for her.
She quickly dismissed it as a casual inquiry and offered him wine. Li Shuang then gently urged Jin'an to leave Lucheng, giving him money to start a new life. She explained that his presence in a household of women would draw unwanted gossip, and his current status prevented his return to the army. Jin'an pleaded, stating he could not leave her, as he felt he could not survive without her.
He considered revealing his true condition but again decided against it, fearing she would reject him. Li Shuang, steeling herself, responded that she was accustomed to loss in battle and that their shared experiences were insignificant. Jin'an reiterated his willingness to die for her, but Li Shuang demanded proof, emphasizing that survival was a human instinct. Accepting her decision, Jin'an, recognizing her authority as a general, dejectedly agreed to leave.
Commandant Luo, Li Shuang's subordinate, questioned why she let Jin'an go. Li Shuang explained that a critical operation was planned for that night, and Jin'an’s presence would only increase the danger. She confessed her inability to send him to his death, given his repeated acts of bravery in saving both her and Li Ting.
She acknowledged that the Emperor's distrust of the Li family was the root cause of their difficulties and declared that she would bear all responsibility for any future repercussions. Later that night, intruders, believed to be Huo Du's remaining allies, infiltrated the General's Residence to steal a deployment map. Outside, the intruders' leader quickly found a map, but a subordinate realized it was a trap, noting that Li Shuang and Commandant Luo had been feigning weakness.
They deduced they were being led into a "trapping us in our own game" scenario and retreated. Simultaneously, Li Shuang's subordinates were instructed to secure the actual deployment map at the General's Residence. Inside the residence, Li Shuang fought the remaining intruders, deliberately showing weakness to make them believe the fake map they would eventually take was genuine. Suddenly, Jin'an, who had returned, sensed Li Shuang's blood.
He burst in, shielding Li Shuang from a fatal blow and taking a severe wound himself, reminding her that he had promised to die for her. It was later revealed that the night's elaborate ruse was a "trap within a trap," designed to ensnare Huo Du's elusive remaining allies.
The strategy involved making the initial theft of a fake map appear too easy to be real, thus compelling the enemy to desperately fight for a second, seemingly more authentic, fake map. Commandant Luo had played a key role in this deception. Jin'an lay severely wounded and unconscious. Lu Xin, examining him, noted that despite the deep but non-fatal wound, his pulse was alarmingly weak. She remarked on Li Shuang's visible concern.
Li Shuang confirmed that Jin'an had taken the knife for her. Lu Xin, in turn, challenged Li Shuang's supposed lack of caution, asserting that anyone Li Shuang tested and trusted, as she had Jin'an, should be beyond suspicion. Lu Xin argued that Jin'an's selfless act, regardless of his unknown past, should have dispelled any doubts about him. She then remembered ancient texts describing martial artists who trained with blood and required it to heal grievous wounds when conventional medicine failed.
She hypothesized that this might be why Jin'an remained unconscious. Lu Xin left to consult medical texts and left Li Shuang with ointment for a wound on her neck. Later, as Jin'an lay in his bed, he began to murmur "blood." Suddenly, he bit Li Shuang's neck. After a moment of consideration, Li Shuang allowed him to continue feeding. The next morning, Li Shuang awoke with an intense headache, while Jin'an, fully recovered, felt no discomfort at all.
He realized that Li Shuang herself was the source that could alleviate all his pain. When Li Shuang went to change his wound dressing, Jin'an, fearing she would discover his unusually rapid healing and send him away again, tried to dissuade her. As she insisted and approached, he noticed that the wound on Li Shuang’s neck was significantly worse than the previous day.
Episode 6 Recap
As Li Shuang carefully tended to Jin'an's shoulder, she noticed his wound had not yet healed, prompting Jin'an to wonder if it was connected to the mysterious loss of his supernatural strength. Jin'an observed a change in Li Shuang as she cleaned his wound. He then realized that her hurtful words and attempts to drive him away were meant to protect him from the complicated and dangerous court intrigues.
However, Jin'an argued that from the moment she found him and discovered the secret of his body, he was already embroiled in this struggle. He admitted to killing Huo Du and was willing to surrender himself if it would resolve the issue. Li Shuang, concerned for his life, told him he would die. Jin'an confessed that while he feared death, he was not afraid to die for her, which was why he had returned.
Li Shuang pressed him on why he repeatedly claimed he couldn't leave her, especially noting his rapid recovery from a coma. Jin'an explained that their connection began when she rescued him from the Yao Army; he felt a powerful urge to protect her. He clarified that he now understood he specifically needed her blood, not just any blood, and that being away from her caused him agonizing pain.
He vaguely recalled hearing the term "blood contract" when she took him to the stone chamber. Li Shuang questioned why he hadn't revealed this when she tried to send him away. Jin'an replied he didn't want to frighten her and simply complied with her wishes, emphasizing that while their blood contract might be real, his desire to protect her was equally genuine.
Li Shuang then expressed her concern, asking where he would go and if his death would be on her conscience. She noticed his newfound worry for her safety, remarking that if it stemmed from him taking a blow for her, it was worth it, and urged him to focus on recovering. Before she left, Jin'an, wanting to test his theory, took Li Shuang's hand and placed it on his unhealed wound. To their surprise, the wound quickly mended.
Intelligence reports confirmed the Yao Army's intent to launch a surprise attack, indicating they had likely obtained the fake deployment map. Li Shuang, seizing the opportunity, decided to fight aggressively. The Changfeng Army achieved victory, but Li Shuang immediately ordered the troops to remain vigilant, emphasizing continued training and meticulous logistics management.
Ji Ran noticed Li Shuang's pallor and tried to express concern by presenting a gift, but a servant interrupted, reporting that Li Ting was causing a commotion in the backyard. Li Ting was burning large amounts of paper money and various personal items, including fine fabric and fur-lined boots, in honor of fallen soldiers, almost setting the residence ablaze.
When Li Shuang was about to intervene, Jin'an initially tried to stop her, but Li Shuang then dispatched him to confront Li Ting. Jin'an understood that Li Ting was likely seeking her attention and reminded him that genuine sincerity was more valuable than burning paper. Li Shuang, watching from afar, explained to Jin'an that she personally maintains the register of fallen Changfeng Army soldiers, crossing out their names as a way to remember those who fought by her side.
Moved, Li Ting then offered a heartfelt prayer to the deceased, asking them to protect Li Shuang and even offering his own lifespan to extend hers. Jin'an later conveyed to Li Ting that Li Shuang cared deeply for him. Observing Li Shuang's growing closeness to Jin'an, Li Ting became suspicious of Jin'an's unknown origins and resolved to seek information from Lu Xin.
Prince Annan's loyal subordinates, having infiltrated his funeral procession, confirmed their suspicions: the heavily damaged corpse in the coffin, though bearing a resemblance, was not Prince Annan. They feared he was either missing or, worse, captured by Consort Qin, who had disbanded their Black Armored Army and hunted them down. With only three survivors, they decided their best course of action was to seek the aid of Prime Minister Zuo Chengzhi, a close confidant of Prince Annan.
Meanwhile, in the imperial palace, a decree from the Emperor and Empress Dowager promoted Shi Du to General of the Cavalry and Zhao Jingyuan to General of the Chariots, with Shi Du assigned to guard the Southern Pass. Prime Minister Zuo Chengzhi immediately voiced his objections, deeming the new generals too inexperienced for such vital roles and advocating for the army's recuperation after the Battle of Lucheng.
He also directly challenged Consort Qin regarding the suspicious circumstances surrounding Prince Annan's death, highlighting the unrecognizable corpse and the massacre of his guards, suggesting foul play. Consort Qin vehemently dismissed his accusations as absurd, asserting that the war was necessary for vengeance. However, she granted Zuo Chengzhi permission to conduct his own thorough investigation into Prince Annan's fate.
Later, Consort Qin harshly reprimanded Jin Wujian for his failure to properly swap the body, which allowed Zuo Chengzhi to gain leverage. Consort Qin then declared her intention to find Prince Annan and force him into her service, thereby securing her son's throne and neutralizing political opposition. She gave Jin Wujian ten days to locate Prince Annan and retrieve specific items.
Following this, Consort Qin visited a hidden chamber where Prince Annan (referred to intimately as "Aodeng" in the subtitles) was chained. She expressed her desire for them to "stay together forever," revealing her personal motive for his captivity. Li Shuang invited Jin'an for a meal, surprised to see him only eating rice. Jin'an explained his inability to appreciate the elaborately prepared dishes, citing their poor cooking techniques and unbalanced flavors.
He revealed that, inexplicably, he automatically discerned the flaws and qualities of the food. In contrast, he highly praised the rice as exquisite, fresh from Lucheng's paddies. Impressed by his culinary insight, Li Shuang decided to take him to Manxiang Restaurant, Lucheng's finest, to ensure he ate well and recovered. Meanwhile, Li Ting visited Lu Xin, attempting to inquire about Jin'an. Lu Xin, however, advised Li Ting to mature and show more consideration for Li Shuang.
As Li Shuang and Jin'an exited the restaurant, Jin'an commented on the delicious fish but questioned the decorative gold leaf, which Li Shuang dismissed as an "art of the dining table." She then wondered if his discerning tastes meant he was a "young master" in his past, a thought Jin'an playfully entertained, hinting at a "perfect match" with her status as a general's daughter, which she promptly denied. They proceeded to a tailor's shop.
Jin'an displayed a critical eye for clothing, rejecting several garments before selecting an expensive brocade outfit. Li Shuang, noting his elegant appearance in the new clothes, admitted that while she wasn't particular about attire herself, she bought them for him as a gesture of gratitude for his help and sacrifices, including risking his life for her. She humorously added that his share of the cost would be deducted from his wages.
Back at Lu Xin's, Li Ting was stunned to learn from Lu Xin that Jin'an was the one who killed Huo Du to save him. Lu Xin emphasized that Li Shuang, despite the consequences of Jin'an's actions (including her father's demotion), chose to protect him, and his recent act of taking a blow for Li Shuang further proved their deep connection, implying they were a suitable pair. This revelation began to soften Li Ting's stance toward Jin'an.
After Jin'an changed into his new, dashing outfit, Li Shuang found herself staring, remarking how well it suited him. He then jokingly lamented the cost, which Li Shuang affirmed would be deducted from his wages. Back at Lu Xin's, Li Ting, now more understanding of Li Shuang's decisions regarding Jin'an, inquired about the assassin's sleeping gas. Lu Xin assured him it was harmless to Li Shuang.
Taking the opportunity, Li Ting then complimented Lu Xin's collection of exotic medicines and, after some persuasion, managed to see a "high-quality tranquilizer." While Lu Xin was distracted by Li Ting's request for sugar for his tea, he slyly stole some of the potent powder. Later, Li Shuang, recalling Jin'an's sophisticated taste, suggested that his past might be linked to it. She sincerely offered to help him explore his forgotten history whenever he recalled something.
In return, Jin'an presented Li Shuang with a dress, accompanied by a note. The note read: "Occasionally treating yourself well is not indulgence. You deserve all the beautiful things this world has to offer." That night, both Li Shuang and Jin'an rested peacefully.
Episode 7 Recap
Li Ting, having learned that Jin'an was the one who bravely saved him from Huo Du, enthusiastically approached Jin'an, proposing they become sworn brothers. Jin'an initially hesitated and tried to decline. Li Ting revealed his long-held desire for warmth and acceptance, which he felt Jin'an provided, unlike his father or sister, Li Shuang, who often spoke to him harshly. To sweeten the deal, Li Ting promised to share any information about Li Shuang if Jin'an agreed.
Touched by Li Ting's sincerity, Jin'an relented, accepting the brotherhood and expressing that he finally felt a sense of family. They performed the solemn ritual, vowing eternal respect and care. Immediately after drinking the celebratory wine, Jin'an felt dizzy and collapsed, unaware that Li Ting had drugged him. Li Ting casually noted the potent effect of the "Fairy Physician's medicine." Li Ting then placed the unconscious Jin'an in a carriage, planning to transport him to the capital.
He justified his actions by stating that while Jin'an saved his life, he remained Huo Du's killer. Delivering Jin'an to the imperial court, Li Ting believed, was the only way to alleviate the Emperor's suspicion towards the Li family and the Changfeng Army, deeming this a higher priority. Simultaneously, Jin Wujian was informed that the "shadow puppet" (Jin'an) was in a weakened state due to the incomplete fusion of Jade Linglong and his earlier reckless use of power.
Jin Wujian saw this as a prime opportunity to seize Jin'an and dispatched his subordinates to intercept the carriage. Jin'an, regaining consciousness, confronted Li Ting. He reaffirmed his sincere commitment to their brotherhood but explained that he could not leave Li Shuang due to a life-threatening condition, warning that his death would only further implicate the Li family. Just then, Jin Wujian's men attacked.
Before engaging, Jin'an reassured Li Ting that he would not harm him and urged him to keep the day's events a secret from Li Shuang. Drawing strength from his recent miraculous healing near Li Shuang, Jin'an transformed, overpowering and driving off their attackers. Li Ting was utterly awestruck by Jin'an's powers, initially mistaking him for a "demon or a god," and then expressing immense admiration.
Back at the General's Residence, Li Shuang, having discovered Li Ting and Jin'an missing, was preparing to lead a search when Li Ting returned, bringing Jin'an with him, and immediately apologized. Elsewhere, Jin Wujian, frustrated by his subordinates' failure to capture Jin'an, acknowledged that Jin'an's growing connection to Li Shuang was enhancing his abilities, making a forceful approach ineffective. Li Shuang sternly reprimanded Li Ting for his reckless actions, which put his own life at risk.
Li Ting, however, explained that he acted out of a desire to contribute and protect their family, feeling he could no longer stand by while his father was imprisoned and Li Shuang constantly worried. Li Shuang, realizing his earnestness, softened. She confessed that she still saw him as the little boy who followed her around, asking for candy, but now recognized him as a true man.
Li Ting vowed to become as strong and capable as Li Shuang to protect the state, hoping that one day, she could finally live a life of her own choosing. Li Shuang later discussed Li Ting's stubbornness with Jin'an, who assured her that Li Ting was not as unreasonable as she perceived. Jin'an also reflected on how some things, if left unsaid, are never heard.
In the imperial court, the Emperor's obsession with obtaining an immortality elixir from Wuling Mountain was being exploited by Su Muli. Su Muli secretly arranged to replace the Emperor's medicine, aiming to ensure his brother, Su Muyang, would die before the Emperor. Su Muli openly disdained Su Muyang, viewing him as a cripple unworthy of the Crown Prince title.
Meanwhile, Li Ting, intending to leave Lucheng and join his father in the capital, wanted to make a special gesture for Li Shuang. He sought Jin'an's help in baking Li Shuang's favorite Pear-blossom Pastries. Li Ting confided in Jin'an, expressing his regret that Li Shuang, unlike other young ladies, never had the chance to be pampered, always being taught to protect others without being protected herself.
He recounted her past with Su Muyang, her childhood sweetheart, who ultimately married another under imperial decree. Jin'an carefully noted these details. After successfully making the pastries, Jin'an, at Li Ting's request, delivered them to Li Shuang, also presenting her with a biography sent by Su Muyang. Li Shuang, noting Li Ting's tendency to divulge information and the context of the biography, questioned Jin'an about her past with Su Muyang, wondering why they didn't "persist to the end."
She explained her own journey from an orphan to a Li family member and her singular focus on the looming war between Taijin and Yao State. She then challenged Jin'an on his commitment, reminding him of the perils of the battlefield. Jin'an happily affirmed his unwavering resolve to stay and protect her. As Li Shuang looked at him, she felt an uncanny resemblance to someone.
Imperial censors, swayed by Su Muli, began to impeach Li Shuang for alleged deception and collusion with Yao State, aimed at exonerating her father. Despite Su Muyang's staunch defense of the Li family's loyalty and their military achievements against the Yao Army, the Emperor, swayed by the accusations, decreed that Imperial Censor Li Zhangyi would immediately assume the role of Military Supervisor of the Changfeng Army at the border.
Before his departure, Li Ting gave Jin'an the Pear-blossom Pastry recipe, instructing him to make them for Li Shuang if she ever felt homesick, and once again made Jin'an promise to protect his sister. Li Ting considered Jin'an his first true friend since losing his memory. Li Shuang then made plans to travel to Ninglan, a bustling commercial hub strategically located between Taijin and Yao State, to acquire a crucial map from its influential Guild Master, Zang Budu.
She decided to go discreetly, taking only a few companions, including Jin'an. Jin'an was visibly thrilled at the news, presenting Li Shuang with a carefully chosen bouquet of flowers, though Li Shuang playfully rebuked his exuberance by assigning him to chop firewood. Separately, Su Muli met with Li Zhangyi, instructing him to use both persuasion and pressure on the Changfeng Army. He coldly added that if Li Shuang remained unyielding, Li Zhangyi should not hesitate to eliminate her.
Episode 8 Recap
Jin'an and Li Shuang entered Ninglan, and Li Shuang immediately suggested they stay for the night. Jin'an initially picked a nicer inn, but Li Shuang, ever practical, pulled him away, intending to find a more affordable place. She gave Jin'an some money to feed his horse, Zhuifeng, reminding him to get good feed. Jin'an wryly observed that she treated the horse better than herself.
Before long, Jin'an found himself at a gambling den, where he surprisingly won a significant amount of money. He returned with baskets of fruit, teasing Li Shuang that he even bought some for her, despite having used most of the money to buy expensive fruit for Zhuifeng. Upon returning to the inn, they found only one room left.
Jin'an was visibly nervous about sharing a room, but Li Shuang, unfazed, told him to relax, assuring him she had seen far worse during her campaigns. That night, Jin'an, gazing out the window, confessed he missed home. Having lost his memory and been taken in by Li Shuang, he considered the General's Residence his home.
He then observed that Li Shuang, who had been on battlefields since the age of twelve, lived so plainly that she seemed even more like someone without a home. Jin'an expressed his desire for her to live well, noting that she was the only person in the world truly connected to him.
He proposed that, with Ninglan’s abundance, he would buy some furnishings to make her room warmer and more comfortable, eventually convincing her to agree, though she made him promise not to gamble again. The next morning, Jin'an went shopping, buying many items for Li Shuang's room from Yuxing Woodenware, using his newly acquired funds.
He also presented her with a plain jade hairpin, which he thought suited her military attire perfectly, gently placing it in her hair and insisting she not remove it, as it was his first gift. Later, as they walked past a bookstore, Jin'an remembered Li Shuang's fondness for biographies and tried to coax her inside, even mentioning Su Muyang. Li Shuang, feigning disinterest, claimed she no longer liked biographies. However, Jin'an saw through her pretense.
Inside, Li Shuang picked up a book, claiming it was a military text, but Jin'an recognized it as "The Tale of Mr. Bat, Volume Two," a romance novel. He then produced another book, "The Beauty of Hell: The Legend of Li Shuang," teasing her about its depiction of her as cunning and two-faced.
Li Shuang, in turn, humorously embraced the absurd rumors about her, including eating children and fair-skinned young men, before excusing herself to attend to some business, leaving Jin'an to browse alone. Li Shuang proceeded to the Zang Mansion, where she patiently waited for Zang Budu, despite a servant claiming he was away. She shrewdly deduced his presence in the city, knowing he would attend the merchants' assembly. Eventually, Zang Budu appeared, expressing his reluctance to meet her.
Li Shuang revealed her purpose: to secure a three-year supply contract for the Changfeng Army from Ninglan. Zang Budu, emphasizing Ninglan’s neutrality and wealth, scoffed at the offer, suggesting her life was worth more than such a meager profit and implying he could easily hand her over to Yao State.
Li Shuang countered by warning him that the new Yao State would not honor old agreements and offered the Changfeng Army's protection for Ninglan in exchange for a map of the city. Meanwhile, in the bookstore, Jin'an browsed and came across "The Legend of An Nan Wang," which described the king as a brilliant strategist.
Seizing this opportunity, Jin Wujian appeared to Jin'an, revealing a flame-shaped mark on his back and explaining that he was implanted with dark magic, a "blood pact" that granted him immense power but also bound him to a master. Jin Wujian insinuated that Li Shuang was merely using him and was the true mastermind behind his predicament. Jin'an, despite initial disbelief, questioned why Li Shuang "just happened" to find him when he was lost.
Jin Wujian further asserted that Li Shuang was in Ninglan not for official business, but to investigate Jin'an's past, showing him a scene of Li Shuang revealing Jin'an's amnesia to Zang Budu. Jin Wujian then offered to break the life-threatening blood pact, but on the condition that Jin'an bring Li Shuang to a dense forest outside Lucheng in three days.
Back at the inn, Jin'an returned, his mind clouded with doubt, even as Li Shuang, pleased with her successful negotiations with Zang Budu, found him. Jin'an pressed her about her whereabouts, questioning if she had used Zang Budu to investigate his background. Li Shuang, citing military secrets, refused to elaborate, defending her right to investigate his identity as her duty while he resided in the General's Residence.
Their tense exchange was abruptly cut short by the urgent arrival of a subordinate, announcing that Military Supervisor Li Zhangyi was nearing the camp. At the military camp, Li Shuang swiftly sent Jin'an away, knowing that Li Zhangyi, a member of Prince Li's faction, harbored animosity towards her family and would likely be hostile.
After an exchange of veiled insults, Li Zhangyi produced an imperial sword, declaring Li Shuang a criminal and demanding she kneel, accusing her of failing to investigate Huo Du's death. Li Shuang acknowledged Huo Du as a spy but maintained his death was accidental. When Li Zhangyi pressed, accusing her of deliberately killing Huo Du to silence him, Li Shuang, to protect Jin'an, reluctantly admitted to accidentally causing Huo Du's death, accepting the punishment.
As Li Zhangyi ordered thirty lashes with the military rod, Jin'an, unable to bear Li Shuang’s suffering, burst into the tent. He vehemently declared that he, not Li Shuang, was the one who killed Huo Du and would face the consequences alone.
When Li Zhangyi ordered his men to seize Jin'an, Li Shuang then stepped forward, stopping them and demanding Li Zhangyi produce an imperial decree for his actions, accusing him of abusing his authority and hinting at forging imperial orders. Unable to produce a decree, Li Zhangyi, enraged, reluctantly left, vowing to report everything to the court and warning Li Shuang to "act wisely."
Episode 9 Recap
Enraged by Li Shuang's perceived disrespect, and regretting not inflicting "dozens more strokes," Li Zhangyi orders a letter sent to the court. The letter is to report that Huo Du's killer is being harbored in the Changfeng Army and that Li Shuang is shielding him, daring her to see "how she's going to pull that off."
His subordinate, however, advises against this, pointing out that Li Shuang, despite her father's demotion, holds significant influence with the Li family and the Changfeng Army. The subordinate explains that Li Shuang risked "crossing Prince Li" and openly defied Li Zhangyi to protect this person, indicating "that boy means a great deal to her." It is revealed the person's name is Jin'an, a "homeless" "useless wretch with no martial skills" Li Shuang took in.
The subordinate clarifies that Jin'an killed Huo Du accidentally by simply pushing him, and "that worthless fool just died." Suggesting a more strategic approach, the subordinate advises Li Zhangyi to "do Li Shuang a favor and let it go." If Li Shuang can be persuaded to align with Prince Li, it would greatly please His Highness. If she refuses, Li Zhangyi can always deal with her and Jin'an "later."
Convinced, Li Zhangyi sends word that he will personally visit the General's Residence later that day. Lu Xin finds Li Shuang injured from the military rods, expressing her anger at Li Zhangyi for hurting her "so badly." Li Shuang, downplaying her injuries, reminds Lu Xin that she "always worry about me" and should be "used to it" by now, promising to be "more careful."
As Lu Xin leaves, calling Li Shuang "always trying to be tough" and reminding her to "remember to apply the ointment," she passes Jin'an, who is waiting outside. Looking at Li Shuang, Lu Xin advises her that "it's over between you and the Crown Prince. Rather than dwelling on the past, you should let it go and cherish what you have now."
Meanwhile, Lu Xin encounters Ji Ran at the General's Residence and advises him that his "frequent visits may not be proper," given that "with women everywhere," it is Li Shuang's private residence. Ji Ran insists he has "important" matters to report to Li Shuang, but Lu Xin, observing his demeanor, implies he "knows best" if there's a misunderstanding and she's merely "offering a friendly reminder."
Jin'an, still in a sullen mood, approaches Li Shuang, asking if she blames him for stepping forward and taking the blame. Li Shuang assures him she doesn't, acknowledging his courage. However, she warns him that his actions have now "pulled you into this power struggle," and "they won't let you off easily." Jin'an questions why she wouldn't compromise, given Li Zhangyi is Prince Li's man, and Prince Li is favored by the Emperor and ambitious, coveting the Crown Prince's position.
Jin'an warns that if Prince Li gains military power, he will start a war, and "it's the common folks who will suffer." He then suggests that "since ancient times, the struggle for imperial power inevitably involves bloodshed. Perhaps you're just a pawn too. Why get yourself involved?" Li Shuang admits, "Perhaps I am just a pawn. But I don't want to be involved in court politics. I only know that behind me stand the Li family and the Changfeng Army.
All I want is to protect the people I should protect." Jin'an expresses his guilt for not being able to protect her from Li Zhangyi, saying that he decided to return to face this with her, and "It's my fault that I failed to protect you—letting Li Zhangyi hurt you like this." Li Shuang calmly responds, "Being in the eye of the storm, I'm bound to suffer a little."
Later, a subordinate informs Li Shuang that "Li Zhangyi has sent word. Tonight, he'll visit you in person." Li Shuang immediately instructs them to "prepare a banquet for him." Jin'an notices Li Shuang's wound has reopened and carefully bandages it for her. He then offers to accompany her to the banquet, reasoning that if she hides him, Li Zhangyi "certainly won't let it go." Jin'an believes his presence could protect her. Li Shuang dismisses the idea, asking, "Protect me? How?
You're as weak as a kitten now. . . Even the strange strength from childhood is gone. What will you use to protect me?" She reminds him that he "took a blade for me and barely survived" once already, stating, "Rather than risking your life to protect me, I'd rather you stay alive and well."
As Jin'an sees the blood from her wound, he nearly loses control, expressing frustration over his current powerlessness and questioning why she still keeps him by her side. Li Shuang explains that many women in her residence "are homeless castaways," and since he has nowhere else to go, he can stay, especially given "the blood pact between us."
Recalling Jin Wujian's earlier words about a way to break the blood contract, Jin'an deliberately tests Li Shuang, asking directly: "To you, is this blood pact a blessing or a curse? If it could be broken, would you try it? Or. . . would you still choose to keep me here?" Outside Li Shuang's room, Ji Ran waits for Jin'an. Upon seeing him, Ji Ran inquires about Li Shuang's condition, to which Jin'an replies that her wound "has been dressed.
Nothing serious." Ji Ran then presses Jin'an about what transpired in Ninglan, but Jin'an deflects, suggesting Ji Ran ask Li Shuang directly as he is her confidant. Ji Ran admonishes Jin'an to "show some respect" when speaking of Li Shuang. Jin'an retorts, asking if Ji Ran's "prestige" isn't enough for killing enemies, "but also forcing others to be grateful?"
Growing agitated, Ji Ran states that Jin'an "has no right to complain about General" and reminds him that "if it weren't for you, she wouldn't have been punished today." He asserts that Jin'an's past is suspicious, and Li Shuang "already showed you mercy by sparing your life." Ji Ran then reveals that "before leaving for Ninglan, she even asked me to find your portrait and look into your past, just to give you a surprise."
He issues a chilling warning: "If you dare presume upon her kindness and be disrespectful to her, I'll kill you myself." Jin'an, deeply affected by this revelation, realizes that "she cares so much about me, yet I listened to others and misunderstood her, doubting her." Li Zhangyi arrives at the General's Residence and, feigning politeness, apologizes for having given Li Shuang military strokes, hoping she "won't take offense." Li Shuang calmly responds that "achievements should be rewarded.
Mistakes should be punished. That's the rule of the Changfeng Army." Li Zhangyi then provocatively questions whether Jin'an killing Huo Du was "an achievement. . . or a mistake?" He quickly dismisses it as a joke but then slyly brings up Li Shuang's father, expressing sympathy for him "being affected because of this."
He then presents a magnificent dagger, explaining it was "forged of cold iron" with a "once-in-a-century" pearl, "made especially for you" by Prince Li, hoping to persuade her to align with the Prince. Li Shuang politely declines, stating that as "a rough warrior," she is "not used to such delicate things" and "can't accept His Highness's kindness." Li Zhangyi is visibly irritated, retorting that she "doesn't know what's good for you" and asking if she has "forgotten your place."
Ji Ran interjects, reminding Li Zhangyi that the Li family and Changfeng Army are loyal subjects of Taijin, serving only to defend the country. To diffuse the tension, Li Zhangyi proposes an archery contest, having heard of Li Shuang's skill. When Ji Ran tries to substitute for the injured Li Shuang, Li Zhangyi dismisses it, remarking that generals fight wars even when injured. Li Shuang tells Ji Ran to "stand down" and accepts the challenge.
Li Zhangyi proposes a wager: if he wins, Li Shuang must accept Prince Li's dagger. Li Shuang counters that if Li Zhangyi loses, he must "drop all charges against Jin'an," and she will provide "a satisfactory explanation" to His Majesty regarding Huo Du's collusion with the Yao State. Li Zhangyi scores 39 points and then attempts to pressure Li Shuang by mentioning her father's suffering, implying Prince Li's help could alleviate it.
At this critical moment, Jin'an steps forward, declaring that since the wager concerns him, he "should be the one to shoot the arrows," asserting that "your fate should be in your own hands." Li Zhangyi agrees but doubles the wager to Jin'an's "life." Jin'an accepts. After an initial miss, Jin'an scores four consecutive bullseyes, totaling 40 points and winning the contest. Jin'an then reminds Li Zhangyi to "honor your agreement."
After the contest, Li Shuang expresses surprise at Jin'an's hidden skills, asking, "You've been by my side for so long. . . yet I had no idea you had such remarkable skills." Jin'an attempts to re-bandage her bleeding wound. Li Shuang directly confronts him, saying, "You deliberately missed the target earlier. You were testing me." Jin'an admits he "had to know where your heart lies" because Li Zhangyi had threatened her with her father.
He then states, "My heart has never changed," and when Li Shuang asks if he thought she only cared about her father, Jin'an emphasizes, "I care about your life too." Li Shuang questions why she means so much to him, given their short acquaintance. Jin'an replies that in these chaotic times, "staying alive is hard enough. How could I speak lightly of life and death?"
Li Shuang then mentions that Ji Ran informed her that Jin'an went to Zang Budu "to find out about my past, not to investigate me." She asks him why he didn't tell her. Jin'an explains he "haven't uncovered anything yet. There was nothing to say." Li Shuang then adds, "Perhaps you're right, we only met recently, I shouldn't have pried into your affairs." Li Shuang admits, "It's my fault this time. If I'd had more thoughtfulness or patience. . .
maybe I wouldn't have misunderstood you. I overestimated myself. . . and underestimated you." She then presses him again, asking what he had been hiding from her, referencing his strange behavior in Ninglan and his continuous testing since their return. Jin'an then recounts the "whole story" of Jin Wujian's accusations. When Li Shuang asks if he has anything to say, he simply replies, "You already have doubts. I have nothing to say."
Jin'an then explains that since he lost his memory, Jin Wujian was the first person to mention his past, so he "had to spend more time thinking," but ultimately, he decided, "I trust you." When Li Shuang asks what makes him trust her without memories, Jin'an responds, "Although I have no memories, I still have my intuition. You've never mistreated me or anyone around you. I trust what I see and what I feel."
Li Shuang then asks about the blood pact, acknowledging the "excruciating pain" and loss of freedom it inflicts, and questions why he wouldn't try to break it if there was a way. Jin'an asserts that if it can be broken, he will find a way himself "instead of putting you in danger with me." Li Shuang, with a final probe, asks, "Have you considered. . . what if that person was telling the truth?"
Jin'an responds by kissing her wound and declaring, "I want to tell you that even if this blood pact was deliberately made by you, I still want to have a deeper bond with you." Despite Jin'an's renewed trust in Li Shuang, Jin Wujian's earlier words about Li Shuang using him (to turn him into a bloodthirsty beast) continue to echo, urging him not to be influenced.
Meanwhile, Jin Wujian tells his subordinate that Jin'an has not shown up within the three days allotted, deducing that he won't come, as "a shadow puppet can't live without their blood master." He concludes that "if we control Li Shuang, the shadow puppet will be easy to deal with."
Back at the General's Residence, Lu Xin changes Li Shuang's dressing, noting that the wound is "healing so slowly this time" and joking that Li Shuang looks "pale as a ghost," as if she has "been drained of blood." Li Shuang internally questions if this slow healing "could it really be related to Jin'an drawing my blood?"
Lu Xin then provides Li Shuang with a map to a "natural hot spring" outside the city, which is said to "promote blood circulation and fade scars," insisting that Li Shuang "make time" to visit. However, Li Shuang is soon confronted by Jin Wujian, who tells her not to "waste your energy," confirming her suspicion that he was "behind it" all along—the ambushes on her camp. Jin Wujian declares that Jin'an "was mine to begin with.
I just want it back," claiming to act "for your sake" by removing someone of "unknown origin" who "must be unsettling" to have around. He demands Li Shuang "give him to me so we don't have to go against each other." Li Shuang defiantly states, "Once he entered my residence, he is my person. Whether I keep him or kill him, no one else has any say in it." Jin Wujian retorts, "Then the General will probably suffer."
Suddenly, Jin'an feels an acute pain and cries out "Li Shuang!" before transforming into his shadow puppet form (Yu Linglong) and rushing to her aid. Jin Wujian is surprised by Jin'an's "perfect fusion" with his shadow puppet form and his ability to "hold out until now and still not begging for mercy," acknowledging Li Shuang's reputation as "Taijin's first female general." Jin Wujian then gains control over Li Shuang, forcing her to attack Jin'an.
He threatens Li Shuang's life to compel Jin'an to leave with him. Jin'an agrees, prompting Jin Wujian to observe his "true love" for his blood master and his surprising lucidity after transformation. Jin'an briefly manages to control Jin Wujian, who then reveals that he is the only one who can unravel the mystery of Jin'an's past, urging him to come with him for answers. Jin Wujian retaliates by using the controlled Li Shuang to stab Jin'an.
As Jin Wujian's subordinate rescues him, Jin Wujian retreats, and Li Shuang is released from his control. The following day, Ji Ran frantically searches for Li Shuang, eventually finding her alone outside the city. He delivers an urgent report: "General, the enemy has reached the border."
Episode 10 Recap
Li Shuang rushed back to the military camp where the Yao Army was rapidly approaching. The Yao Army had advanced over twenty li and was expected to reach the borders by dusk. Li Shuang immediately ordered a count of weapons, preparation of troops, and a meeting for all officers. She dispatched Ji Ran to the city to check on Jin'an and ensure his safety.
Just then, Jin'an arrived at the camp with pear-blossom pastries, explaining he wanted to bring them warm. Li Shuang, focused on the urgent military situation, told him to wait. While waiting, Jin'an overheard Li Shuang's battle plan. He found a flaw in it and, despite initial hesitation from Ji Ran, burst into the main tent to voice his concerns.
Li Shuang had planned to create an illusion of strength by claiming 40,000 troops while only deploying 20,000, then lure the enemy into narrow trenches where archers would ambush them. Jin'an pointed out that the enemy had already deployed civilians as suicide troops and that arrows might not be enough to stop continuous waves. He proposed burning the passage to completely block the enemy and suggested showing mercy to civilians who didn't resist.
Despite Ji Ran's distrust and warning against keeping Jin'an close due to his unknown identity and sharp insight, Li Shuang assured him she knew what she was doing and ordered him to follow her commands. The Changfeng Army achieved a great victory. Meanwhile, in the Yao camp, after suffering heavy losses, Shi Du acknowledged his error in underestimating Li Shuang. His strategist, Liu Yun, advised against retreating entirely, urging to continue the war.
He ordered the Yao's embedded spies in Lucheng to take action and, knowing Li Shuang would return, emphasized the importance of coordinating internal and external forces for a decisive victory. In Lucheng, Military Supervisor Li Zhangyi, relieved by the news of the Yao Army's retreat, decided to celebrate. He planned to visit a renowned brothel in the city to "experience local customs," despite his aide's initial skepticism about the quality of frontier entertainment.
After the battle, Li Shuang commended Jin'an for his contribution to the victory. Jin'an, still curious about his origins, asked if she had any other questions for him. Li Shuang, understanding his unspoken thoughts, stated that she knew his intentions and he would speak if he truly had something to say. Jin'an confessed that the strategic plans seemed to appear in his mind spontaneously, a phenomenon he couldn't explain.
Li Shuang attributed it to his prolonged stay in the General's Mansion, and then told him the military camp was no place for him. She instructed Ji Ran to take him back to the mansion, but before he left, she asked him to change out of his conspicuous General's Mansion attire. As Jin'an changed, Li Shuang discreetly checked his chest, finding no wounds, which left her perplexed, wondering if she had been mistaken about him.
Li Shuang suddenly felt dizzy, a recurring symptom she noted had begun around the time of the Battle of Lucheng. Jin'an, concerned, asked if it was related to him, but Li Shuang reassured him it had started much earlier and was unrelated, attributing it to the fatigue of constant border conflicts. Jin'an made her promise to let physician Lu Xin examine her once the fighting subsided.
On their way to the General’s Mansion, Jin'an asked Ji Ran when Li Shuang would return. Ji Ran abruptly stopped the carriage and confronted Jin'an, demanding to know his true identity. He questioned Jin'an about the flame mark on his neck, revealing that another child named Jin'an, bearing the same mark, had disappeared from the army shortly before the current Jin'an appeared. Ji Ran suspected they were the same person and accused Jin'an of bringing danger to Li Shuang.
Jin'an, exhausted and without his strange powers, explained he couldn't remember many things and couldn't answer the questions. Ji Ran, convinced Jin'an was a threat to Li Shuang, resolved to act on his own, claiming he was willing to bear any consequences for the General's safety. In the ensuing struggle, Jin'an accidentally fell off a cliff. Ji Ran returned to Li Shuang with Jin'an's sash, reporting his death and asserting that Jin'an's refusal to confess proved his suspicious nature.
Enraged, Li Shuang accused Ji Ran of acting on mere suspicion and violating military law. She ordered him imprisoned upon their return to the city and immediately dispatched a team, led by Ji Ran, to search for Jin'an, demanding he be found, alive or dead, because she still had many questions for him to answer. Meanwhile, in the Fragrance Garden brothel, Li Zhangyi was drunkenly forcing a dancer named Yanzhi to drink.
Yunge stepped in to protect Yanzhi, charming Li Zhangyi and diverting his attention. Yanzhi, worried for Yunge, urged her to leave, fearing Li Zhangyi's cruelty, but Yunge calmly said she could handle it. Later, Yunge stole Li Zhangyi's token, used it to gain access to the granary, and set it on fire. The granary guards reported a woman using Li Zhangyi's token to infiltrate and then burn the supplies, leaving behind a Yao State signal flare.
Li Shuang deduced that Li Zhangyi had fallen into a trap and, given the intact signal flare, believed the information about the granary hadn't yet reached the Yao Army. Due to their dwindling supplies and the enemy's superior numbers, Li Shuang ordered the army to break camp at dawn and sent a messenger with the signal flare to the General's Mansion, ordering the capture of the woman before morning.
Jin'an, having survived the fall due to his strange powers, realized Ji Ran's ruthlessness and decided to return to the General's Mansion. There, he overheard Li Shuang's orders to investigate and capture the female arsonist. Recognizing a unique incense scent from the Fragrance Garden, Jin'an deduced the spy's origin and the urgency of finding her before the Yao Army exploited the intelligence. He rushed to the Fragrance Garden, but it was too late; the place had been massacred.
A dying Yanzhi told Jin'an that Li Zhangyi was responsible, believing Yunge was a Yao spy, and directed Jin'an to the City God Temple. Concurrently, Li Zhangyi, discovering Yunge missing and fearing exposure of his negligence and potential treason, decided to eliminate Li Shuang. He ordered all city guards replaced with his own men and the city gates sealed, determined to prevent Li Shuang from entering until Yunge was dealt with.
He plotted to let Li Shuang die at the hands of the Yao Army, believing it would serve his interests perfectly. The Yao Army, informed of the granary's destruction, began their attack on Lucheng, expecting the city gates to open. Li Shuang and her army arrived at Lucheng's gates, demanding entry, but were blocked by Li Zhangyi's newly appointed guards, who claimed they could not open the gates without Li Zhangyi's direct order.
Li Shuang confronted Li Zhangyi, accusing him of deliberately delaying while the Yao Army approached. Li Zhangyi, feigning concern for catching the "suspect" from the granary fire, retorted that Li Shuang, as a general, was a coward for contemplating retreat and insisted the battle must be fought. At this critical moment, Jin'an appeared on the city wall, having located Yunge and brought her to the General's Mansion with the help of others.
He presented Li Zhangyi with Yunge's sachet, threatening to expose Li Zhangyi's complicity with Yunge and the granary fire unless he opened the gates for the Changfeng Army. Li Zhangyi, advised by his aide to not fall for the trap, initially refused, confident the approaching Yao Army would eliminate Li Shuang. Jin'an, brandishing a blade, countered Li Zhangyi's threats, stating his own life was insignificant compared to Li Zhangyi's, implying he would take Li Zhangyi down with him if necessary.
With the Yao Army rapidly closing in, Li Zhangyi panicked and ordered the gates to be opened. However, Li Shuang, seeing the imminent danger to the city's civilians, stopped the gates from opening fully. She declared that letting the army in now would be "inviting wolves into their home" and the only option was to lure the Yao Army to the dense forest outside the city for a chance at survival.
As the battle intensified, Jin'an once again felt a surge of his strange powers. He joined Li Shuang on the battlefield, and together they confronted and killed the Yao General Shi Du, effectively ending the chaotic battle. Li Shuang, finding herself repeatedly saved by this masked figure, asked why he always hid his true identity. He replied that his identity was not important, but he would always strive to do whatever she wished. This unwavering promise made Li Shuang realize that the masked hero was indeed Jin'an.
Episode 11 Recap
On the battlefield, Li Shuang recognized Jin'an and was relieved to see that he was alive, asking if he was alright and expressing her gladness that he had survived. Meanwhile, a Yao Army officer reported their defeat to a Counsellor, describing how a mysterious man in black with extraordinary martial skills had suddenly appeared, collaborating with Li Shuang to kill General Shi Du and saving Lucheng.
The Counsellor was surprised by the man in black's unexpected involvement but declared that the battle was a must-win. He vowed not to return without triumph, stating his intention to petition the court for a new military commander to ensure Lucheng was conquered, no matter how difficult. Li Zhangyi, attempting to flee Lucheng, cursed Li Shuang for his predicament and vowed to report her to Prince Li upon his return to the capital.
His aide urged him to hurry as horses awaited. However, Li Shuang's subordinates intercepted them, questioning their late-night travels. Li Zhangyi, asserting his authority as an imperial military supervisor, was nonetheless informed that General Li Shuang requested his presence, as her subordinates would "spoil his night" for him. Li Shuang visited Yunge in prison, telling her she should be grateful to have been captured by Li Shuang rather than Li Zhangyi, as she would otherwise be dead.
Yunge defiantly told Li Shuang to kill her, but Li Shuang recognized Yunge as a trained assassin and questioned how many more such "death mission" individuals were in Lucheng, the Yao State's true objective, and Yunge's connection to Li Zhangyi. Yunge, fearless of death, refused to provide any information, but Li Shuang countered that people like her feared survival more than death.
Li Shuang then revealed she had just returned from the Fragrance Garden, where Li Zhangyi, in an attempt to capture Yunge, had ordered the massacre of over twenty people, including Yanzhi. Showing Yunge a sachet, Li Shuang asked if she recognized it, explaining that the herbs inside were for Yunge's sleep, a testament to Yanzhi’s deep care, which tragically led to her own demise. Enraged, Yunge lashed out, accusing Li Shuang of being evil and demanding to be killed.
Li Shuang stopped Yunge from harming herself, stating that Yanzhi had believed Yunge was innocent until her last breath and that suicide would only betray Yanzhi further. Li Shuang urged Yunge to confess Li Zhangyi's wrongdoings to avenge her friend, reminding her that her mission for the Yao State was already complete.
Yunge, heartbroken, confessed her past as a trained assassin, having crawled out of piles of corpses and forgotten what it felt like to be human, until Yanzhi had shown her genuine love. She then vowed to drag Li Zhangyi to hell for refusing to open the city gates, which resulted in the deaths of countless Lucheng soldiers. Li Shuang's subordinate later confirmed Li Zhangyi's confession regarding the loss of his token at the Fragrance Garden.
Li Shuang ordered Li Zhangyi and both confessions sent to the capital for His Majesty's judgment. She also instructed that Yunge be buried alongside Yanzhi. When a subordinate questioned the appropriateness of this, given Yunge's role as a Yao State spy, Li Shuang acknowledged that in chaotic times, many were merely unfortunate beings without control over their own fates. Lu Xin visited Ji Ran in prison, bringing him medicinal herbs for his battlefield injuries.
She observed that Li Shuang was preoccupied with searching for Jin'an and seemed to have forgotten about Ji Ran. Lu Xin then questioned Ji Ran's unwavering loyalty despite his imprisonment, openly accusing him of jealousy towards Jin'an, given his reckless actions even though he knew Jin'an had Li Shuang's full trust. Ji Ran, the head of the Guardians' Unit, insisted his actions were out of duty to protect Li Shuang from Jin'an, whose identity was peculiar and suspicious.
Lu Xin countered that his feelings were more likely jealousy, as he envied Jin'an for being the one to share Li Shuang's worries and solve her problems. Lu Xin reminded Ji Ran of their first meeting three years ago when he had heroically saved her from falling off a cliff. She also recalled witnessing his panic and worry when Li Shuang was poisoned, realizing at that moment how deeply he cared for someone.
Ji Ran adamantly stated that Li Shuang was his general, and his feelings for her were solely "lifelong loyalty and sworn allegiance," cautioning Lu Xin against making remarks that could tarnish Li Shuang's reputation. Lu Xin departed, remarking that unspoken affection was like unstoppable running water and promising to rescue Ji Ran and repay his kindness for saving her life. Later, Lu Xin found Jin'an near the General's Residence and was visibly relieved he was safe.
Jin'an, deducing her purpose, acknowledged Ji Ran's imprisonment. Lu Xin admitted she had come to plead with Li Shuang but couldn't bring herself to speak, so she now sought Jin'an's help to convince Li Shuang to release Ji Ran. Jin'an questioned whether it was worthwhile to assist someone who had always been cold towards her.
Lu Xin explained that love transcended worth, driving her to care for Ji Ran's concerns and find happiness in his smile, especially to repay him for saving her life. Jin'an agreed to help, reasoning that Ji Ran, despite his error, had acted out of concern for Li Shuang's safety, and since Jin'an was now safe, further punishment seemed petty. He added that he was grateful to Ji Ran's actions as they had led him to something even more important.
Jin'an visited Li Shuang, who was awaiting his return. Li Shuang playfully chided him for his reckless actions, such as breaking into the city tower and holding an official hostage. Jin'an, noting her concern rather than suspicion, explained his absence by attributing his survival to luck after falling from the cliff. Li Shuang, relieved he was safe, let the matter drop.
Jin'an then asked her to release Ji Ran, arguing that Ji Ran's unwavering loyalty meant his rash actions stemmed from a desire to protect her, and punishing him further would be unjust. Li Shuang agreed to release Ji Ran, acknowledging his many years of loyal service. Upon his release, Ji Ran admitted his mistake in acting without orders but maintained he had no regrets, reiterating his suspicion regarding Jin'an's still unverified identity.
Li Shuang, reflecting on trust, mused on the courage required to fully trust someone in such tumultuous times. Despite Jin'an's secrecy, she chose to believe him, concluding that sometimes, trust itself was the greatest truth. Scouts reported that the Yao Army had not retreated but had established a camp twenty li from Lucheng, now led by a new general named Zhao Jingyuan.
Li Shuang realized their intention was to besiege Lucheng and starve them out, as their supplies would only last four more days. She dispatched Qin Lan and three soldiers to Yongcheng to request reinforcements and supplies, which were expected in two days. Meanwhile, the Yao Counsellor celebrated with Zhao Jingyuan, boasting of their imminent victory over Lucheng by simply waiting for the city to run out of resources.
However, during the night, Jin'an assassinated Zhao Jingyuan, leaving his severed head outside Li Shuang's office with a message. Separately, the Yao Counsellor met with a superior who offered him a chance for redemption for previous failures. The superior then inquired if the Counsellor found the man in black familiar, to which the Counsellor acknowledged his resemblance to the deceased Prince Annan.
Later, the Yao State publicly appointed Tian Daweng as the new Guardian General, rallying their troops by downplaying the man in black's actions and reaffirming their resolve to conquer Lucheng. News reached Li Shuang that the Yao Army had also unexpectedly stormed and captured Ninglan, a vital transportation hub. Her officers debated whether to fight or await reinforcements, fearing their strategies were compromised and their dwindling three-day supply of provisions.
Li Shuang, frustrated by the bickering, asserted that Long Wind soldiers would die fighting, not waiting. Li Shuang revealed a map of Ninglan, which her officers enthusiastically noted would greatly increase their chances of victory. Li Shuang then declared that Ninglan must be reclaimed and Lucheng secured. Her officers noted the Yao Army's new general, Tian Daweng, and the loud public display of their new appointment, suspecting it was a trap to lure out the man in black.
Li Shuang agreed, deducing that the cunning Yao Counsellor intended to eliminate Jin'an, who had been an unforeseen variable in their plans. Recognizing the dire situation, Li Shuang decided to use herself as bait. She ordered Ji Ran to gather two thousand elite soldiers to accompany her to Ninglan, despite her officers' protests that it was a suicidal mission.
Li Shuang stated that since the Yao Army was determined to win, her forces must fight to the death, and ordered the names of the two thousand soldiers to be recorded for future honors. She then penned a final letter, dedicating her life to her state, her army, and her father, wishing her father and brother Ting lasting peace.
Jin'an, finding her letter, realized she had left no words for him, confirming his suspicion that she intended to use her small force as bait against the overwhelming Yao Army. Li Shuang explained her duty as a general to protect Ninglan, a promise she had made to Zang Budu, and her willingness to gamble on a slim chance, even if it meant breaking their blood pact and granting him freedom.
Jin'an, deeply moved, declared that he did not value freedom over her and that their lives were intrinsically bound. He vowed not to let her lose and would stall the main Yao forces if she took ten thousand soldiers to reclaim Ninglan. Jin'an then confessed that Li Shuang had likely known his true identity as the man in black all along, apologizing for his long-held secret. In a tender moment, Li Shuang made him promise to stay alive.
A subordinate reported the initial order of two thousand troops ready, but Jin'an corrected him, stating Li Shuang's revised order was for ten thousand soldiers. Li Shuang confirmed the change, gave Ji Ran final instructions to defend Lucheng and expect supplies in two days, then personally led her army of ten thousand soldiers to Ninglan, shouting their resolve to defeat the Yao invaders.
Episode 12 Recap
General Li Shuang, with the Ninglan map in hand, devised a meticulous three-pronged strategy to conquer Ninglan. She explained that Ninglan's formidable defenses necessitated a clever approach to minimize casualties. Her plan involved splitting forces: Qin Lan would lead an elite squad to challenge the south gate at 7 PM, while Luo Teng, Lyu Yi, and Qin Wu would station their troops, with torches and horses, in the forests by the other three gates.
Li Shuang herself would lead an elite unit through a secret tunnel into Ninglan. The strategy was designed to make the Yao Army believe the Taijin forces were few, prompting them to open the gates. Once open, Qin Lan would light a signal flare, triggering the outside forces to light their torches and gallop horses, creating the illusion of tens of thousands of attackers, while Li Shuang's elite unit would launch an assault from within, creating chaos and securing Ninglan.
Simultaneously, within Ninglan, the Yao Army's morale was already shaky. Jin Wujian had earlier informed their Counsellor about Jin'an's critical weakness: his powers waned significantly when separated from Li Shuang. Recognizing this, the Counsellor orchestrated a plan to isolate Jin'an. Knowing of this trap, Jin'an nevertheless confronted the Counsellor alone, confident in his ability to handle the situation despite the thousands of troops at the Counsellor's command.
The Counsellor, however, saw this as an opportunity, believing Li Shuang would be overextended if Ninglan fell, leaving Jin'an to fight by himself. Believing Li Shuang had already "recklessly redeployed troops," the Counsellor ordered a counterattack on Lucheng. Li Shuang's plan unfolded flawlessly. Yao Army generals received panicked reports of Taijin forces attacking from the east, west, and north, while an elite Taijin squad, numbering hundreds to thousands, had appeared inside the city.
In the ensuing pandemonium, the Yao Lord ordered the city gates closed, inadvertently trapping his own soldiers outside. Li Shuang's forces swiftly secured a decisive victory, forcing the Yao Army to surrender. Relieved by the success, Li Shuang ordered Luo Teng to oversee the city's aftermath and Qin Lan to immediately return to Lucheng with supplies, while also instructing female spies in Lucheng to prepare for Jin'an. She silently urged Jin'an to hold on.
However, Jin'an had been captured by the Yao Army. The Yao Counsellor, reveling in Jin'an's capture and the anticipated fall of Lucheng, had Jin'an restrained. Li Shuang, disguised as a dancer, infiltrated the enemy camp. Jin'an, sensing her presence, looked up at her with a worried gaze. The Counsellor, mocking the once-arrogant "man in black," handed Li Shuang a dagger and commanded her to stab Jin'an, threatening her own life if she refused.
Remembering that her blood could revitalize Jin'an, Li Shuang met his eyes, then subtly used the dagger to allow her blood to flow into Jin'an. The Counsellor, believing Jin'an had been stabbed, praised Li Shuang's act. But, empowered by Li Shuang's blood, Jin'an quickly recovered and transformed, shielding her. Li Shuang then seized the Counsellor, taking him hostage. Despite the Counsellor's taunts about his numerous troops, Li Shuang and Jin'an fought their way out of the camp and escaped.
As they fled, Jin'an's strength rapidly diminished, leaving him exhausted and unable to move, with pursuers closing in. He urged Li Shuang to leave him and save herself, but she refused, reminding him that their lives were bound together and placing her hand on his wound to aid his recovery. Just as their situation seemed dire, reinforcements from the Changfeng Army arrived, protecting them and fending off the pursuers.
Meanwhile, Consort Qin harshly reprimanded Jin Wujian for his failure to bring Jin'an back alive. Jin Wujian attempted to explain the formidable power of the "shadow puppet," Jin'an, now merged with a "blood master," but Consort Qin dismissed his excuses. She fiercely demanded Jin'an be brought back alive at any cost, reminding Jin Wujian that his life depended on her antidote to the Brain-Devouring Powder.
As punishment for his incompetence, she gave him only half the antidote, condemning him to endure the agonizing effects of the poison. Back in the capital, an urgent report from Lucheng reached the Emperor, detailing Li Shuang's decisive victory against 50,000 Yao soldiers and highlighting the treacherous actions of Li Zhangyi.
Prince Su Muli, who had previously recommended Li Zhangyi, knelt to admit his poor judgment and proposed severe punishment for Li Zhangyi and his family, including dismissal, investigation, and exile to Yaizhou. The Emperor, acknowledging the Li family's loyalty, reinstated Li Wei to his official duties. The Emperor then sought Crown Prince Su Muyang's opinion on the "man in black" mentioned in the report.
Su Muyang suggested rewarding the mysterious figure to gain his favor and investigate his motives, hoping to recruit him to the court to strengthen their army. However, Su Muli countered that if the "man in black" refused, his immense power meant he must be eliminated to prevent him from becoming a threat. Meanwhile, Jin'an was recuperating, with Li Shuang diligently attending to him.
Upon waking, he noticed Li Shuang's pale complexion and realized she had been caring for him for an extended period. He asked her to feed him his medicine, feigning numb hands. Jin'an confessed his fear that his rapid physical changes and supernatural abilities might cause her to reject him. He recounted his childhood, adopted by a kind father, but shunned by his adoptive mother after he displayed "incredible strength" by saving her from a dog.
Li Shuang, however, reassured him, affirming that true good and evil reside in one's heart, not in extraordinary abilities, and praised him for saving her, the Changfeng Army, and Lucheng. Jin'an then expressed concern that his blood's power nourishment might be the cause of her recent weakness, but Li Shuang dismissed it as baseless speculation and made him promise never to harm himself for her sake.
As Li Shuang prepared to leave to attend to military matters, Jin'an stopped her, revealing another secret of the "man in black": his wounds could self-heal. He encouraged her to unwrap his bandages to see for herself. Li Shuang unwrapped the bandages from his chest, confirming that his wound had completely healed, and an undeniable closeness grew between them.
Episode 13 Recap
Li Shuang decided to settle accounts with Jin'an, accusing him of speaking inappropriately to her multiple times. Jin'an admitted he might have gotten carried away, especially since he rarely saw her so gentle. He even mentioned her looking pretty in a dancer's outfit and asked her to wear it again, which she rebuked. As she turned to leave, she suddenly fainted, causing Jin'an to call out to her in alarm. Li Shuang remained unconscious for a whole day.
Upon waking, Lu Xin explained that her dizzy spells were due to melancholy, combined with a deficiency in qi and blood, and urged her to recuperate. Li Shuang initially dismissed her concerns, but Lu Xin stressed the importance of her health, reminding her that she always prioritized her soldiers over herself. Just then, a messenger arrived with news from the capital: the Emperor had pardoned the Li family's crimes and reinstated her father.
With this joyous news, Li Shuang could finally relax. Lu Xin proposed a trip to Cangshan to rest and celebrate, and gather Dragon Blood Herb, known for its blood and qi-replenishing properties. Li Shuang was hesitant to leave her post as a general, but Jin'an and Lu Xin joined forces in persuading her, emphasizing her own health and the stability of the military situation, as the Yao Kingdom had retreated. Li Shuang eventually agreed.
Before their departure, Li Shuang introduced Ouyang Jun, a newly recruited coachman, who confidently proclaimed his expertise as a guide. After a minor delay to fix a broken carriage wheel, Li Shuang, Qiao, and Ouyang Jun set off for Cangshan. Upon arriving at Cangshan Town, Li Shuang, surprisingly, requested the best rooms at the inn, stating that one should enjoy life and that Jin'an was the most important person to her, wishing him a better life.
Jin'an was pleased, believing his efforts to encourage her to enjoy life were finally paying off. Lu Xin, however, was amused by Li Shuang's sudden willingness to spend money. Li Shuang informed them she had only booked two rooms, assigning three people to each, emphasizing that money should be spent wisely. That night, Jin'an was caught eavesdropping outside Li Shuang's room by Lu Xin, who playfully pushed him inside.
Before leaving, Li Shuang gave Jin'an some candy, attributing it to Qiao having bought too much, though Lu Xin suspected Li Shuang had actually purchased it. Later, Lu Xin asked Li Shuang about her relationship with Jin'an, noting their flirtatious interactions. She praised Jin'an's devotion and kindness, recalling how he risked his life to help Li Shuang and the Longfeng Army enter the city, and stayed by her side when she was unconscious.
Yet, she lamented his physical weakness, noting he was "too weak" and "could be knocked down in two punches." Lu Xin then questioned Li Shuang's connection to the mysterious "man in black," whom the common people hailed as a great hero for his prowess against the Yao Army. She wondered if Li Shuang was conflicted between the two men, one handsome and considerate, the other strong and brave, jokingly suggesting Li Shuang should "take them both."
Jin'an spoke with Ji Ran, who expressed his continued distrust, despite Jin'an having helped him after his imprisonment. Jin'an clarified that his intervention was solely because Lu Xin had pleaded on Ji Ran's behalf to Li Shuang.
He admonished Ji Ran for his ungrateful attitude towards Lu Xin, who had put down her dignity and devoted herself wholeheartedly to him, and advised him to be kinder and communicate more clearly, rather than pushing people away with his cold demeanor, especially if he didn't reciprocate her feelings. Ji Ran stated that if Lu Xin continued to pester him, it would only harm her.
Lu Xin initially explained that Dragon Blood Herb, a miraculous medicine, was exclusive to Cangshan and incredibly rare elsewhere. However, a local server revealed that it was widely cultivated in Cangshan, with every household growing it, even having some under their tables. Li Shuang was surprised by the abundance.
Lu Xin suggested buying some to take back to Lucheng, but the server clarified that the herb loses its potency within half a day of being picked and must be consumed fresh. Therefore, to ensure Li Shuang's recovery, they would need to stay in Cangshan for at least three days. Li Shuang, prioritizing her health, agreed to extend their stay. While gathering herbs, Qiao encountered a girl selling herself to fund her mother's burial.
Despite Ouyang Jun's insistence that it was a scam, Qiao, driven by compassion, gave the girl money, asking for no repayment other than for her to recover and live well. Later, at a local restaurant, a Wine-Drinking Competition was announced, offering 30% discounts for participants and a free meal for the winner. Lu Xin, aware of Li Shuang's high tolerance, eagerly pulled her to join, to Jin'an's concern, as he didn't want her to drink.
Li Shuang confidently stated she knew her limits and proceeded to win the competition, generously declaring she would pay for everyone's drinks. Under the influence of alcohol, Li Shuang then pulled Jin'an onto the dance floor. His gaze was fixed solely on her. That evening, Ouyang Jun recounted Qiao's encounter with the con artist, and how he had verified it was indeed a scam.
Li Shuang explained Qiao's true nature, revealing that Qiao was an orphan she had once rescued from being publicly beaten for money, and that Qiao's past suffering made her unwilling to see others endure similar hardships, even if it meant being cheated herself. Ouyang Jun expressed regret for his earlier judgment. Later that evening, Jin'an brought food to Li Shuang, who had been drinking and neglected to eat.
He affectionately fed her, then presented her with a self-written version of "The Tale of Mr. Bat," rewritten with a happy ending to spare her the sadness of the original. He expressed his belief that human effort could change any outcome, stating that as long as one has the will, one can definitely change the ending. Li Shuang thanked him not just for the book, but for the peace he brought to Lucheng.
She then confessed that the identity of the "man in black" could no longer remain a secret. Although she had reported the events truthfully, she protected Jin'an's true identity, sacrificing her own military merits and potential promotions to shield him from public scrutiny. She promised to grant him any wish, except for official titles or advancements.
Jin'an's deepest desire was to stay by her side, but Li Shuang dismissed it as an already-fulfilled reality, urging him to wish for something else. Jin'an then expressed a wish for her to shed her invincible general persona off the battlefield and embrace the vulnerability of an ordinary woman—one who feels fear, hunger, and cold, and who needs the warmth and protection of others. A deeply affected and somewhat inebriated Li Shuang simply called him to drink more.
Episode 14 Recap
Jin'an meticulously brewed medicine for Li Shuang, explaining that the dragon blood herb required four hours of slow simmering to ensure its potency. He tasted the concoction, assuring Li Shuang it wasn't bitter at all. Li Shuang, initially reluctant, finally drank the medicine after Jin'an offered her a piece of sweet candy, promising it would mask any bitterness. Another day, Li Shuang resisted her medicine, complaining that even her hiccups now smelled of it.
Jin'an insisted it was the final dose and offered to perform any feat she desired, from music to painting, if she complied, playfully suggesting she could "chew on Chinese goldthread dry" if she refused. Soon after, Ouyang Jun approached Jin'an, observing that Jin'an seemed to be getting along well with Li Shuang and asking for advice on a girl he was interested in.
Jin'an first mistakenly thought Ouyang Jun was referring to Lu Xin, but Ouyang Jun quickly clarified that his affection was for Qiao. He spoke highly of Qiao, admiring her strength, noting she once lifted a carriage with her bare hands, and praising her kindness, despite her occasional temper and penchant for "hitting and kicking" him. Jin'an was impressed by Ouyang Jun's resolve and agreed to help him pursue Qiao.
Following Jin'an's advice, Ouyang Jun attempted to woo Qiao by reciting a poem while she practiced. His verses, describing rain, grass, flowers, sheep, and a "fair maiden," were met with a large eye-roll from Qiao, who found them nonsensical. Ouyang Jun explained the poem was an invitation for a river stroll and a meal of "meat and mushroom stew" with wine, but Qiao remained unimpressed. Later, Li Shuang once again refused to drink her medicine.
Jin'an tried to entice her with the promise of fresh osmanthus cake from the market. When she still wouldn't comply, he coaxed her into taking just one sip, then half a sip, eventually feeding it to her as she sat in his arms. She then noted that he had added honey, making it less bitter.
Li Shuang brought up the man who had held her hostage at the hot springs, speculating that he might be linked to Jin'an's memory loss and could be a crucial lead. She offered to draw his portrait for investigation, remembering his face clearly. By a river, Li Shuang inquired about Wuling Mountain, recalling Lu Xin's stories of its mysterious healers and hoping it could provide clues to Jin'an's true identity.
Jin'an acknowledged that discovering his origins would offer him "closure," but he declared his preference to remain as "Jin'an" and wished to spend his life by Li Shuang's side. He painted a picture of their future, envisioning them retiring to an idyllic spot to drink wine, practice swordplay, and live in peace, away from worldly affairs. Li Shuang playfully questioned who said she wanted to spend her life with him.
As Li Shuang and Jin'an shared a tender moment, Lu Xin and Qiao secretly watched and debated. Lu Xin believed Li Shuang and Jin'an were clearly in love and a perfect match. Qiao, however, argued that the masked Man in Black, a strong and admired hero, was more deserving of their General. She speculated that he might even be "super ugly with pockmarks all over" beneath his mask, adding that "handsome men are never reliable."
Lu Xin dismissed Qiao's claims and proposed a bet on who Li Shuang would choose, with the loser grinding fifteen kilograms of herbs or getting the biggest sword from Wang's Blacksmith. Jin'an continued his painting, unfazed by their discussion. He then critiqued Li Shuang's earlier portrait of the man from the hot springs, calling her artistic style "exceptionally wild." In response, Li Shuang pushed him to the ground.
Ouyang Jun, having overheard their wager, approached and declared his "all-in" bet on Jin'an, joining Lu Xin's side. Li Shuang then handed the portrait to Ouyang Jun, instructing him to make copies and distribute them among his outlaw contacts to track down the mystery man. She cautioned Ouyang Jun that the man was "unbelievably skilled" and advised him to prioritize his safety over direct confrontation.
Lu Xin lightheartedly teased Jin'an about the "pickles," referring to Li Shuang's artwork, claiming she and even flies found it appealing. Lu Xin administered some medicine to Jin'an, but he remained frustrated by his inability to recall his past, despite his impatience. Lu Xin warned him against rushing the process, stating it would go against "medical principles."
She speculated that his sudden eagerness to regain his memory stemmed from the Man in Black having "totally stolen his thunder" during the battle at Lucheng. Jin'an denied being petty, but Lu Xin pressed, suggesting he feared he wasn't worthy of Li Shuang without his full memories. Jin'an countered that he would rather be "just average" if it meant knowing his origins. He then asked Lu Xin about Wuling Mountain again, mentioning that Li Shuang had spoken of it.
Lu Xin dismissed it as mere "rumors," questioning its existence and accusing Jin'an of doubting her "medical ethics." Undeterred, Lu Xin offered him her "latest concoction," a pill for amnesia, warning him of potential side effects. Jin'an, ready to try anything, swallowed it. He experienced a numb mouth, a warm sensation in his chest, and an itchy face before suddenly feeling tired and falling asleep.
Later, Li Shuang attempted to rouse Jin'an for dinner, but he remained in his room, claiming to have caught a "cold" to hide his face. Despite his protests, Li Shuang pulled back his blanket, revealing he had grown a long beard. She found his new "rugged look" quite charming and manly, even saying it "really suits" him. Jin'an, however, interpreted this as her preference for masculine men, like the Man in Black.
Li Shuang, checking him for a fever, then directly asked if he was the Man in Black. Jin'an ambiguously replied, "Yes, but also not," which she didn't understand. With a freshly sharpened knife in hand, Li Shuang declared she would shave his beard for him, much to Jin'an's alarm. During their travels, Jin'an seized the opportunity to teach Li Shuang various subjects.
Though she initially questioned the need for lessons during sightseeing, Jin'an first demonstrated calligraphy, writing a poem about clouds and the moon. Li Shuang admired his "strong and powerful, bold and heroic" handwriting, suggesting it hinted at an "extraordinary background." Next, he taught her military strategy using a chess-like game, explaining the "Double Dragons Formation." Li Shuang quickly grasped the concepts, even impressing Jin'an with her rapid understanding.
When it came to playing the guqin, however, Li Shuang's performance was excruciating; Jin'an's companion described it as "music that pierces the ears" and could "drive away enemies." Jin'an, ever supportive, insisted her music "at the very least music that lingers," but quickly declined her offer to play another piece. Meanwhile, at Zang Mansion in Ninglan, two individuals disguised as merchants approached Zang Budu, seeking help to locate someone and offering a substantial reward.
Zang Budu, astute and perceptive, quickly recognized their military bearing, identifying them as part of the Yao Army and the person they sought as Prince Annan, Duan Aodeng. Realizing the perilous nature of the request, Zang Budu agreed to help as a "delaying tactic," but demanded, as his condition, to be appointed an official in the Yao State if he succeeded, ensuring a lifetime of luxury.
After they left, Zang Budu secretly instructed a servant to deliver a letter to General Li Shuang in Lucheng, revealing Jin'an's true identity as Duan Aodeng, Prince Annan of the Yao State. He explained that this was to repay Li Shuang's kindness for saving Ninglan from a Yao army massacre in a previous battle. However, before the servant could depart, Jin Wujian appeared, killed him, and then brutally massacred Zang Budu and his entire household, leaving no one alive.
Li Shuang sent the rest of their company back to Lucheng while she and Jin'an made their way to Ninglan, intending to follow up with Zang Budu regarding Jin'an's origins. However, upon arriving at Zang Mansion, they discovered the entire household had been brutally massacred, with all thirteen family members and servants killed. A local farmer had reported the incident after finding the gates tightly shut.
Investigators found no valuables missing, but a chest of jewelry bearing the Yao State seal suggested the Yao State was responsible. Li Shuang surmised that the Yao State, harboring "resentment" for Zang Budu's assistance in the Ninglan battle, was behind the murders. She felt deep self-reproach, admitting she had coerced him into helping. Jin'an tried to reassure her, asserting she had done nothing wrong and that without her foresight, Ninglan and Lucheng would have fallen.
Despite his words, Li Shuang felt responsible and solemnly vowed to protect Ninglan in Zang Budu's memory. Meanwhile, at Wuling Mountain, Mo Yin received reports of a mysterious Man in Black appearing in Lucheng, described as "extraordinarily powerful, akin to thousands of troops," who had aided the Changfeng Army. He also heard that the recent massacre at Zang Mansion in Ninglan might be attributed to this same figure. Finding the whole affair "suspicious," Mo Yin concluded it was likely connected to Jade Linglong and decided he would have to investigate it himself.
Episode 15 Recap
As the Lantern Festival approached, Li Shuang, determined to ensure the citizens could celebrate in peace after a period of conflict, significantly enhanced Lucheng’s defenses. On one occasion, a man attempting to enter the city without proper identification caused a disturbance. Li Shuang ordered her guards to search his belongings, noticing the calluses on his hands that suggested years of riding and archery, rather than the life of a small merchant from the city outskirts he claimed.
She ordered him sent to the government office for interrogation, where she intended to question him personally. Soon after, Mo Yin appeared, openly admitting he also lacked identification but had not been questioned by the guards. When asked, a guard suggested Mo Yin’s fine attire had led them to believe he didn’t require inspection. Mo Yin found this amusing, expressing a desire to experience prison. Li Shuang, intrigued, questioned his identity and purpose in Lucheng.
Mo Yin, however, offered only vague replies, hinting she wouldn’t understand. Li Shuang then informed him that prison meals were not free. Mo Yin, claiming his money pouch was missing, offered a valuable hairpin, which Li Shuang accepted. She warned him that prison might entail physical suffering and, regardless of his noble background, she would not release him on a whim.
She then instructed the warden to keep a close watch on him, suspecting he might be a powerful figure seeking amusement. Li Shuang then addressed her soldiers, warning them of severe penalties for any future lapses in duty. Meanwhile, Lu Xin had closed her pharmacy early for the festival, feeling a pang of loneliness.
Li Shuang, on her patrol, explained to Lu Xin that she was trying to escape Jin'an's persistent efforts to make her "enjoy life" through playing musical instruments and painting, which she found tedious. Lu Xin teased her about having "sweet feelings," but Li Shuang dismissed it as her friend reading too many romance novels.
Lu Xin then expressed a sentiment that Jin'an shared: Li Shuang, while exemplary in her roles as the General of Taijin, the Li family's daughter, and the Beautiful Lord of Hell, had forgotten her own identity as an ordinary woman. Lu Xin stressed the importance of having choices in life beyond the battlefield and urged Li Shuang to live happily for herself, even if just for a day.
She presented Li Shuang with a unique silk dress she had specially commissioned. Moved by Lu Xin’s thoughtful gesture, Li Shuang promised to return the favor with a magnificent gift. Later, as the sun began to set, Jin'an arrived at the General's Residence to escort Li Shuang. Li Shuang suggested they explore the Lantern Festival together, a spectacle she believed Jin'an had never witnessed.
Jin'an playfully asked if she was asking him out, which Li Shuang denied, insisting she merely didn't want him to be bored. Jin'an, delighted, agreed not to spoil her "first time asking him out." Within the prison walls, Mo Yin observed the lively festival outside with excitement. He then provoked the other prisoner, revealing that he knew the man was a pawn, deliberately exposed at the city gate to create a diversion for his accomplices to enter the city.
The incensed prisoner attacked Mo Yin, but Mo Yin quickly subdued him with a "Forget-Me-Not Pill," ensuring the man would forget their encounter upon waking. Mo Yin expressed frustration at losing track of other targets but resolved to join the festivities outside to continue his search. Out on the bustling streets, Lu Xin and Jin'an waited for Li Shuang. As a dragon parade passed by, a young woman dropped her lantern.
Jin'an, picking it up, realized the beautiful lady in the silk dress Lu Xin had given her was Li Shuang. Lu Xin proudly admired her friend's transformation. Li Shuang, however, complained about the layers of the dress, finding it restrictive compared to her usual armor. To Lu Xin’s surprise, Li Shuang had brought Ji Ran along, playfully presenting him as her "grand gift" for Lu Xin, suggesting they were a suitable match.
Li Shuang then whisked Jin'an away to a "fireworks show," deliberately leaving Lu Xin and Ji Ran alone to "create opportunities." Lu Xin noted the awkwardness between them, but Li Shuang dismissed it as shyness. A child approached Jin'an, asking him to buy Li Shuang a flower. Jin'an, checking his empty pockets, revealed that all his money was held by Li Shuang. Li Shuang quickly provided the child with money.
Jin'an good-naturedly complained about being perceived as a "kept man," to which Li Shuang jokingly handed him all her remaining money and the lantern, telling him not to ask her for money again, a gesture that only deepened Jin'an’s public "plight." Elsewhere, Ouyang Jun sought out Qiao, who was on duty at the General’s Residence. He had brought her a special gift.
Passing a vendor selling "man in black" masks, he overheard the vendor proclaiming them the "fourth treasure of Lucheng." The vendor enthusiastically recounted the heroic deeds of the "man in black," who supposedly used "magical tactics" like "scattering beans to form soldiers" and "shrinking land into inches" to drive back 50,000 Yao soldiers and, with General Li, defeated a "scheming counsellor."
Li Shuang, hearing the exaggerated tale and Jin'an's near-revelation, quickly steered Jin'an away from the crowd to prevent him from revealing his identity. Ouyang Jun explained to Qiao that he hadn't used his authority to acquire her favorite date cakes from Old Chen; instead, he had spent the afternoon helping Old Chen hang festival lanterns in his yard. Qiao, initially suspecting coercion, was pleased by his sincerity.
Ouyang Jun then boldly declared his affection for Qiao, suggesting they get to know each other better. Qiao, impressed by his character and martial skills (knowing he was accepted by the General), readily agreed. She enthusiastically envisioned them raising a dozen or so strong children to form a formidable team to protect Li Shuang. Ouyang Jun, taken aback by the ambitious number of children, nevertheless accepted her agreement with joy.
Lu Xin, having encouraged Ji Ran to express his feelings to Li Shuang and assuring him she would no longer pursue him, later found herself by the river. Mo Yin, who had overheard her earlier, sensed her underlying sadness despite her outwardly brave facade. Mistaking her for contemplating suicide, he quickly intervened and pulled her away from the water's edge. Lu Xin, startled, clarified that she was merely admiring the shimmering river.
Mo Yin found her behavior peculiar, noting her earlier cheerful demeanor despite her sadness and her current amusement at his mistake. Lu Xin, calling him an eavesdropper, admitted to employing a "psychological strategy" to make Ji Ran feel guilty. Mo Yin, impressed by her cunning, pointed out that she was still bottling up her own regrets.
Lu Xin countered that everyone wore masks to some extent and that sometimes, even if one wished to speak, there might be no one willing to listen. Mo Yin shared his own philosophy, stating that people from his homeland spoke freely and lived "free and unrestrained," which Lu Xin found "thoughtless."
As the sky exploded with fireworks, Mo Yin, detecting the scent of sulfur and saltpeter, instinctively pulled Lu Xin away, thinking they were in danger, only to realize it was merely the spectacle of the fireworks. Li Shuang, watching the display with Jin'an, thanked him for a truly special evening. As she closed her eyes, Jin'an, remembering the vendor's story and thinking she admired the "man in black," suddenly donned one of the masks he had secretly purchased.
Li Shuang, without a word, removed the mask and kissed him. Mo Yin, having never witnessed fireworks before, was invited by Lu Xin to share a meal. He declined, explaining there was no opportunity that night. He expressed that in this "cold-hearted" city, Lu Xin was the first person he had conversed with pleasantly, and he would remember her. As he departed, Lu Xin wondered if he had simply vanished, questioning the existence of a "Mr. Bat."
Episode 16 Recap
The following morning, Li Shuang and Jin'an both woke up, each lost in their own thoughts about the previous night. Jin'an replayed the events, wondering how he had allowed her to grab his collar and kiss him, regretting that he hadn't been the one to take the initiative. Meanwhile, Li Shuang similarly reflected on her own initiation of the kiss, thinking 'I ended up being the eager one,' and concluded that drinking causes trouble.
She quickly dispatched servants to remove all the fine wine she had hidden in her room for years, declaring that alcohol only leads to mistakes. Confused and regretful, Jin'an sought out Lu Xin to confide in her. Lu Xin, understanding the situation, listened as Jin'an spoke vaguely about "trouble." She insightfully summarized that in a moment of passion, they had "followed their feelings, forgot about propriety, and in a moment of impulse, did something they now deeply regret."
Jin'an, however, firmly corrected her, stating that he was serious about Li Shuang and had no regrets. Observing Li Shuang's gaze towards Jin'an the previous day, Lu Xin expressed her approval of their relationship, telling Jin'an that Li Shuang deserved such happiness. Playfully, Lu Xin declared herself Jin'an's "half mother-in-law" and demanded he care for Li Shuang and be dutiful to her. Jin'an retorted that if Lu Xin wanted to be a mother, she should have her own child.
He then pressed Lu Xin to explain why Li Shuang was avoiding him. Lu Xin suggested that despite being a general, Li Shuang was still a woman and likely desired a sense of ceremony for a lifelong commitment. Jin'an pondered this idea. Returning to the General's Residence, Jin'an struggled with how to express his feelings. He decided to practice his confession on a scarecrow, delivering a heartfelt speech about finding love and pledging eternal devotion to Li Shuang.
His practice was interrupted when Qiao'er, who had been crying nearby, angrily punched the scarecrow, declaring that the sandbag, which had been with her for many years, would not tolerate such "lewd words." Jin'an apologized, and Qiao'er told him she was sorry for putting him through such humiliation. Meanwhile, the Emperor, who had been ill for over half a year, was pursuing immortality.
A minister informed him that the celestial sign of "Mars retrograding near Antares" would appear next month, and Crown Prince Su Muyang, as the rightful heir, could be sacrificed to ensure the Emperor's eternal life. The minister suggested Lucheng as the ideal place for the sacrifice. The Emperor then summoned Su Muyang, commending his tireless service during his illness.
He announced his intention to send Su Muyang to Lucheng to reward the troops and grant honors, asking if he was willing. Su Muyang readily agreed to follow his father's arrangements, unaware of the sinister plot behind it. News of the Emperor's decree reached Crown Princess Ji Tianjiao before it was formally announced. Enraged, she stormed into Su Muyang's study, forbidding him from going to Lucheng.
Su Muyang subtly reminded her that such defiance could anger the Emperor and jeopardize her father, Prime Minister Ji's, painstaking efforts and the honor of the Ji family. Ji Tianjiao accused him of having no ambition and only eagerly taking on the mission to Lucheng to meet his former lover, Li Shuang, citing his past actions in defending Li Shuang before the Emperor.
She asserted her status as the Prime Minister's daughter and the rightful Crown Princess, demanding no one else be in his eyes. Su Muyang coolly asked if she intended for him to defy an imperial order. Though hesitant, Ji Tianjiao stood her ground, but Su Muyang dismissed her concerns and ordered his attendant Huai'en to escort her back. Away from court, Su Muli was already aware of the Emperor's true intentions.
His subordinate reported that the Emperor had not only sought a longevity elixir but had also had the Imperial Astrologer calculate the birth charts of Su Muyang and Ji Tianjiao, planning for Su Muyang to serve as a perfect sacrifice during the "Mars retrograding near Antares" event. Su Muli gloated that Prime Minister Ji Lan believed he was making a strategic move, unaware that his precious daughter would soon become a widow.
His subordinate also noted that Li Shuang's recent victory had restored the Li family's favor with the Emperor, making them a force to be reckoned with if allied with the Crown Prince. Su Muli, however, declared that he doubted Su Muyang would even make it safely to Lucheng. Meanwhile, a furious Ji Tianjiao vented her anger by smashing objects in her chambers, feeling that Su Muyang's open pursuit of Li Shuang disrespected her and made her a laughingstock.
Her father, the Prime Minister, arrived and chastised her for her shortsightedness. He explained that Prince Li's (Su Muli's) growing power worried the Emperor, who was now subtly promoting Su Muyang to create a balance. He urged Ji Tianjiao to consider the larger picture, emphasizing that Li Wei, General Li's father, had once faced imperial suspicion due to his military power.
He implied that if General Li could be swayed to their side, Su Muyang might have a chance at the throne. He assured Ji Tianjiao that as long as she secured her position as Empress, who Su Muyang associated with was irrelevant, given his weak nature. He advised her to treat Su Muyang better and to act like a Crown Princess rather than constantly returning to her parental home.
Elsewhere, Lu Xin was called to the prison to treat a prisoner who had a sudden epileptic seizure. She calmly diagnosed his condition and sent a guard for medicine, asserting that even a condemned prisoner deserved care until execution. After she successfully treated him, the prisoner suddenly took her hostage, demanding a fast horse. The prison guards hesitated.
From a nearby cell, Mo Yin, who had been casually watching a cricket fight, interjected, chastising the prisoner for his ingratitude and for dirtying the kind physician's hands. He emphasized that all lives, from soldiers to crickets, held equal value. As the prisoner threatened Lu Xin, Mo Yin deftly intervened, disarming him. Just then, Li Shuang arrived and, without hesitation, killed the prisoner for hostage-taking and attempted escape.
Li Shuang immediately checked on Lu Xin, who claimed to only have a twisted neck. Lu Xin then thanked Mo Yin for saving her. Mo Yin, who had been in the prison for several days, revealed that he had an official document and could leave whenever he wished, but chose not to show it earlier, desiring the "experience." Li Shuang returned his hairpin and warned him against causing trouble in the city.
Mo Yin, introducing himself, vowed they would meet again and departed, briefly heading in the wrong direction before being corrected by a guard. Later, Lu Xin confronted Li Shuang about her swift action, pointing out the irony of Li Shuang's decisiveness in killing after Lu Xin had worked hard to save the man. Li Shuang retorted that Lu Xin would not have been alive to complain if Mo Yin hadn't intervened.
Li Shuang then inquired about Lu Xin's dowry, offering to complete it and arrange a marriage with Ji Ran for her protection, assuming Lu Xin still held feelings for him. Lu Xin adamantly refused, stating that her past with Ji Ran was over and she had no intention of marrying him, especially not to a soldier whose life was constantly at risk. She teased Li Shuang about her own recent "trouble" caused by drinking.
Li Shuang conceded, respecting Lu Xin's decision. However, she decreed that starting the next day, Lu Xin must report to the General's Residence at 7 AM to train with the maids for self-defense and physical fitness. When Lu Xin protested her late-sleeping habits, Li Shuang threatened to proceed with the marriage arrangement, prompting Lu Xin to reluctantly agree to the training. Li Shuang then received a letter from the capital announcing the Crown Prince's impending visit to Lucheng.
Her subordinates speculated the visit was either to appease the troops after a recent scandal or, more likely, related to the mysterious man in black. Li Shuang dismissed their theories, instructing them not to speculate about the Emperor's intentions. She ordered her subordinate, Luo Teng, to issue a command prohibiting all soldiers from discussing the man in black recklessly, reminding them that he was the Changfeng Army's benefactor and any violation would result in military punishment.
Before his departure, Su Muyang was seen off by Li Ting. Li Ting brought gifts for Li Shuang, and though Su Muyang suggested he could have sent them via messenger, Li Ting explained he wanted to see him off and check on his health for the long journey. Crown Princess Ji Tianjiao also appeared, offering "unwanted" but exquisite gifts for Li Shuang as a "token of her regard."
Li Ting, always protective of Li Shuang, pointed out Li Shuang's frugal nature and military lifestyle, suggesting such delicate items would be unsuitable. Ji Tianjiao remarked on Li Shuang's admirable military achievements, superior to "some men," prompting Li Ting to reiterate Li Shuang's philosophy that righteousness transcends gender roles. Ji Tianjiao insisted Li Shuang must accept the gifts as a royal reward.
After she left, Su Muyang gently told Li Ting not to take her temper to heart, and Li Ting reassured him he wouldn't. Li Ting then expressed his hope that Li Shuang would finally understand her own feelings and urged Su Muyang to treat her exceptionally well. A flashback revealed Li Shuang's and Su Muyang's childhood. Li Shuang, an orphan adopted by the General, was often bullied.
Su Muyang, a prince with a disabled hand, was also tormented by other children. Li Shuang, already skilled, fiercely protected him. She encouraged him to always stand tall and offered to teach him sword-fighting, suggesting he use his left hand if his right was unable. Su Muyang, grateful, asked her to call him Muyang instead of "Your Highness," formalizing their childhood friendship.
On his journey, Su Muyang's attendant expressed concern about Prince Li's influence and warned him about being seen with Li Shuang due to her military power. Su Muyang dismissed these concerns, stating he had always avoided power struggles to show his brother he desired a peaceful life. He believed his father's decision to send him to Lucheng was a tacit approval of his feelings for Li Shuang.
He held up a hairpin, confident that he could now rightfully place it on her. Later, Li Shuang and Jin'an were discussing the Crown Prince's impending arrival. Jin'an joked about the previous night's events, which Li Shuang claimed she couldn't remember, adding that 'amnesia is a good thing' in this case. Li Shuang expressed her unease about the Crown Prince's visit, especially with the news of the man in black reaching the capital.
She worried that given Jin'an's extraordinary abilities, the court might believe possessing him would grant them power over the realm. Jin'an, however, was more interested in how Li Shuang planned to introduce him. He offered suggestions like "my servant," "my boytoy," or "my husband-to-be." Li Shuang found his bluntness amusing but reminded him of her identity as a woman.
Jin'an countered that he never cared for societal shackles on women and believed women could fight battles and joke freely just like men. Li Shuang agreed with his sentiment. Jin'an then offered to teach her etiquette, hinting that it would be useful when she eventually went to the capital to meet the Emperor. Li Shuang was receptive, and Jin'an proposed she formally accept him as her teacher by offering him a bowl of wine. Li Shuang paused, then playfully questioned if he could teach her more to make the Crown Prince happy, perhaps even singing songs, leaving Jin'an speechless.
Episode 17 Recap
Feeling restless about his lack of a formal title and the impending arrival of the Crown Prince, Jin'an sought solace and complained to Lu Xin at the pharmacy. Lu Xin urged him to return home, warning that if Li Shuang discovered him drinking with her, she would likely make Lu Xin train even harder. Jin'an argued that he was simply seeking comfort with a friend, asserting that if neither of them spoke, Li Shuang would never know.
He questioned Lu Xin's trust, but Lu Xin, expressing her own curiosity about men caring for titles, stated that she and Li Shuang believed in equality. She deduced that Jin'an's agitation stemmed from the Crown Prince's visit. Jin'an admitted to feeling uneasy, wondering why Li Shuang hadn't moved past her history with the Crown Prince, given his betrayal. Lu Xin countered that romantic feelings are rarely easy to shed.
She then tried to reassure Jin'an, saying he was no worse than the Crown Prince; both were fine young men, and like Jin'an had said, all beings were equal. However, the Crown Prince and Li Shuang shared an irreplaceable past, while Jin'an couldn't even recall his own. Jin'an lamented this, wishing he could share his past with Li Shuang but having no memories.
Lu Xin mused that perhaps he and Li Shuang had met before, their encounter a fleeting, fated glance as described in love stories. Jin'an agreed to try a memory-recovery method Lu Xin mentioned, despite his previous bad experiences with her "tonics" that led to him growing a beard. Lu Xin, assuring him no medicine was involved this time, instructed him to clear his mind and focus on a pendant, imagining himself growing drowsier.
Instead, Jin'an felt nauseous and ultimately vomited, frustrating Lu Xin who remarked on his low alcohol tolerance. Later, Jin'an sneaked back to the General's Residence, only to be caught by Li Shuang, who was still awake. She noted his strong smell of wine, despite his claim of having sobered up. Jin'an fabricated a story about Lu Xin insisting he drink due to his melancholic mood.
Li Shuang chastised him for criticizing her manners while indulging in unseemly behavior himself, reminding him that as her teacher, he should set an example. Jin'an acknowledged his error. Moments later, Li Shuang formally served him tea, acknowledging his sudden request to be her teacher but insisting on proper etiquette. She presented five gifts, each symbolizing virtues like diligence, painstaking instruction, good fortune, early success in imperial exams, and perfect merit.
Jin'an pointed out that traditionally there should be six gifts, to which Li Shuang explained that dried meat was too expensive. She then presented him with a special gift: a bead containing her blood. She explained that with the Crown Prince's arrival, she would be busy, and the bead could be used in emergencies when she was not around. Jin'an expressed concern over her harming herself again, recalling her past sacrifices for him.
Li Shuang dismissed it as nothing compared to what he had done for her. Jin'an, moved, embraced her. Meanwhile, Su Muli was actively plotting against Crown Prince Su Muyang. A subordinate reported that the Crown Prince had entered Liangzhou and would reach Lucheng in two days. All prefectures were loyal to Prince Li (Su Muli), making it impossible for the Crown Prince to win them over, though he had met with Li Wei's son, Li Ting, before his departure.
Su Muli, contemplating his brotherly bond, concluded that the Crown Prince was a persistent threat, aiming to secure the powerful General's Residence's support. He ordered his men to eliminate the Crown Prince swiftly and cleanly, asserting that he shouldn't be blamed for his ruthlessness, as it was the Crown Prince's own actions that led to this.
As Li Shuang led her troops to welcome the Crown Prince, her subordinate questioned why she didn't wait in the camp as instructed by Su Muyang. Li Shuang explained that while the Crown Prince was considerate, failure to greet him would violate established protocols. Upon their meeting, Su Muyang affectionately called her "Xiao Shuang" and asked why she had come despite his instructions. Li Shuang maintained her formal demeanor, stating it would be against protocol not to greet him.
Shortly after, assassins ambushed their procession. Su Muyang was wounded protecting Li Shuang, taking a sword strike to his back. Li Shuang, prioritizing his safety, ordered him to be taken to the General's Residence, recognizing that the post station might not be secure given the unknown identity of the attackers. She also commanded that all news of the attack be suppressed.
Upon their arrival at the General’s Residence, Jin'an, smelling blood, rushed out to see Li Shuang, who briefly promised to explain later before escorting Su Muyang inside for treatment. The physician reported that while the wound was deep, it had thankfully missed any vital organs, though rest was crucial for a full recovery. Li Shuang, kneeling, apologized for her failure to protect the Crown Prince and requested punishment.
Su Muyang dismissed her apologies, stating he owed her and it was his duty to protect her. He expressed his longing over the past three years, asking if she had been well. Li Shuang, still formal, replied that all was well in Lucheng, but cautioned against informal conversation due to potential gossip that could tarnish his reputation. Su Muyang, noting a man's presence in her residence, remarked on her usual female-only attendants.
Li Shuang explained that Jin'an had saved her life and, being without family, was given a job in her household. Su Muyang, alluding to the border's instability, suggested it was best to employ people of known backgrounds and asked to meet Jin'an. When Jin'an appeared, Su Muyang questioned how he ended up in the wilderness. Jin'an recounted being attacked by a beast and blacking out.
Su Muyang, with a hint of sarcasm, noted the "humanity" of Lucheng's beasts for merely attacking but not eating him. Jin'an retorted that Su Muyang could test it himself if he doubted. Li Shuang interjected, apologizing for Jin'an's lack of manners due to his recent arrival. Su Muyang acknowledged his name, Jin'an, meaning "lasting peace in Taijin," and assumed Li Shuang had given it to him. He then patronizingly instructed Jin'an to behave diligently and learn a household servant's manners.
Jin'an, indignant, declared he was no mere servant, but Li Shuang's exclusive teacher, who had received her master-disciple tea and was devoted to her. Li Shuang again apologized for Jin'an's disrespect, urging him (Jin'an, who had an injury) to rise.
Su Muyang then suggested that as her teacher and childhood friend, Jin'an needn't be so formal in front of him, and talked about the value of arts (like Qin, chess, calligraphy, and painting) in the dull military life, asking if Li Shuang had read the biographical scrolls he sent her. Jin'an, cutting him off, announced he was taking Li Shuang to dress her wounds.
As Jin'an led Li Shuang away, Su Muyang implored her, reminding her of his feelings and offering to have his engagement to the Ji family canceled. This prompted Li Shuang to recall a moment three years prior when she returned a hairpin, a family heirloom of Su Muyang's mother, signifying their broken ties due to his impending marriage.
Back in the present, Li Shuang reprimanded Jin'an for his disrespectful behavior towards the Crown Prince, warning that such provocations could lead to severe consequences. Jin'an, however, argued that Su Muyang was at fault for her injury and declared he would avenge her even if it meant destroying the entire Taijin court. He apologized, admitting his words stemmed from worry, but passionately pleaded with Li Shuang to stop recklessly endangering herself.
Li Shuang reiterated her duty as a general to protect the nation, her family, and the Changfeng Army, stating her life was always ready for sacrifice. Jin'an retorted, questioning what would become of him, given their bond, if she were to die. At the Imperial Palace of Taijin, the Emperor, furious, summoned Su Muli.
He rebuked Su Muli for attempting to assassinate the Crown Prince while heavenly tribulation was imminent, explaining that the ritual's strict rules meant the Crown Prince must not die before the sacrifice, or the formation would collapse. Su Muli feigned ignorance and remorse. The Emperor, while acknowledging Su Muli's ambition, criticized his impatience and lack of caution. He then gave Su Muli a chance for redemption: he was to immediately go to Lucheng to assist with the sacrifice.
On the day of the tribulation, he was to bring the Crown Prince to the altar and cut out his heart. To ensure compliance, the Emperor gifted Su Muli a dagger, granting it his imperial authority. After the audience, Su Muli’s subordinate expressed surprise that the Crown Prince survived, noting his strong fate. Su Muli admitted he underestimated him and confirmed his plan to settle old scores with his brother in Lucheng.
His subordinate reminded him of Jin Bao's loyalty and his successful scheme to poison the Emperor with aconite, signaling that a power shift was near. Su Muli, believing his father's days were numbered and driven by the Emperor's desperation for a life-extending sacrifice, emphasized that while he didn't believe in astrology, the Crown Prince absolutely could not die on the altar before the ritual.
Acknowledging the Emperor's potential spies in Lucheng, Su Muli clarified that Su Muyang’s death would be orchestrated just before he ascended the altar on the day of the ritual. Then, upon his return to the capital, with his father succumbing to the poison, he would legitimately ascend the throne as the supreme ruler, a position he truly coveted, unlike the mere title of Crown Prince.
Later, the Emperor's decree was read aloud, commending the Changfeng Army for its valor and bestowing treasures, silk, and imperial wine. Li Shuang then requested an audience with Su Muyang, who welcomed her informally. She presented him with a fine wound salve, a gift from her famous doctor friend, to aid his recovery.
Su Muyang observed her distant demeanor, lamenting how much of her life he had missed in three years, but expressed happiness that she had found new friends at the border. Li Shuang then spoke of Lu Xin, her close friend and benefactor who saved her life, and also introduced Jin'an, whom she had rescued and who had since saved her many times. She took responsibility for Jin'an's earlier disrespect towards the Crown Prince.
Su Muyang, professing indifference to formalities, appreciated that Li Shuang had trustworthy people by her side. Li Shuang, noting his incomplete recovery, suggested he rest, and then departed, citing military duties. After she left, Su Muyang's aide remarked that Li Shuang still cared for him, evidenced by her personal delivery of the salve. Su Muyang admitted he would be kind to her friends, but Li Shuang's careful distance still saddened him. He then inquired about Jin'an’s background.
The aide reported little information, noting that Jin'an had lost his memory due to a head injury when Li Shuang found him, and also that he was the one who killed Huo Du.
Episode 18 Recap
Li Shuang's subordinates, including Qiao'er, were on high alert, ensuring Su Muyang's safety upon his arrival at the General's Residence. Jin'an, having acutely overheard some inappropriate words, did not kneel before His Highness. When Huai'en, an attendant, chastised him, Jin'an retorted that the Crown Prince himself had stated there was no need for such formalities. Su Muyang, puzzled by Jin'an's overt hostility, asked why he seemed to bear such animosity despite their never having met.
Jin'an stated that the General was wounded because of Su Muyang, and if Su Muyang only felt hostility, Jin'an was already being lenient. Huai'en quickly interjected, reminding Jin'an that Su Muyang had risked his own life to shield General Li, sustaining a more severe injury. Jin'an dismissed this, declaring that he served only the General and cared solely for her safety.
Su Muyang, pleased by Jin'an's loyalty to Li Shuang, also mentioned that he heard Jin'an was the one who killed the spy, Huo Du, asking if it was true. Jin'an challenged him, asking if he was looking for an excuse to punish him. Su Muyang clarified that Huo Du deserved death, and as he was rewarding the troops, Jin'an also deserved an award. Su Muyang then presented Jin'an with many fine items.
Jin'an, however, showed no interest in the lavish gifts. He immediately instructed an attendant to distribute them among the ladies of the residence, or exchange them for weapons if the women preferred, stating that he should be allowed to dispose of items given to him by the Crown Prince as he pleased.
Su Muyang, excusing Jin'an's lack of etiquette due to his memory loss, then invited Jin'an to go fishing with him that afternoon, reminiscing that Li Shuang (whom he called "Xiaoshuang") used to love eating the fish he caught for her. Jin'an, initially having no interest, agreed to join him upon hearing this. At the fishing spot, a subtle war of words ensued between Jin'an and Su Muyang, both referencing Li Shuang.
Su Muyang expressed his surprise at the beautiful scenery and abundant fish in the border region, wondering if Xiaoshuang had ever visited. Jin'an countered, questioning Su Muyang's leisurely pursuit given his state responsibilities, hinting at Su Muyang's idleness. Su Muyang calmly explained that everyone has their place, and unwanted closeness only causes trouble. When Su Muyang successfully caught a fish, he confidently declared that no matter how much Jin'an interfered, what was meant to be his would remain his.
As they concluded, Su Muyang invited Jin'an to drink with him that night. Jin'an feigned cordiality, apologizing for any offense Li Shuang might have caused due to her straightforward nature, but Su Muyang again stated his preference for candid women. Before leaving, Jin'an released all the fish they had caught, claiming that Li Shuang's benevolent nature would want them to return home.
Later, Jin'an, still bothered, went to Lu Xin's clinic, explaining that he had detected an unusual medicinal scent on Su Muyang, different from his usual medicine. Lu Xin initially dismissed it as common wound salve, suggesting Jin'an was simply jealous. However, she eventually admitted it was a special wound medicine she had formulated, which Li Shuang had personally requested. Lu Xin told Jin'an not to be jealous, as Su Muyang had taken the wound for Li Shuang.
Jin'an, highly dissatisfied, demanded to have the same medicine Su Muyang was receiving. Lu Xin, exasperated by his childishness, was then asked by Jin'an for a "thousand-cup-sober" medicine for his drinking contest with Su Muyang that night, as he couldn't afford to lose again after the fishing competition. Lu Xin, finding men's competitive nature childish, eventually gave him a packet of what she claimed would allow him to drink a catty of alcohol.
After Jin'an left, Lu Xin confessed to her assistant Nanxing that it was merely Xiaoyao Pills for digestion, a "psychological trick" to get him to leave her alone. That evening, Jin'an arrived at Su Muyang's room with a large jar of wine, clearly intent on a drinking contest rather than a casual drink.
Su Muyang observed that while Li Shuang trusted Jin'an, he could not, especially with Jin'an's unclear identity and claimed memory loss, suggesting Jin'an might have other intentions towards Li Shuang. Jin'an dismissed Su Muyang's past with Li Shuang, stating that three years had passed, and things had changed. He subtly mocked Su Muyang, suggesting that if he wanted to win Li Shuang's favor, he should adapt to her current interests, like drinking.
Confident from Lu Xin's "medicine" and his keen sense of smell, Jin'an and Su Muyang began drinking from large bowls. Su Muyang remained remarkably clear-headed, while Jin'an quickly became inebriated. Leaning against Su Muyang, a drunken Jin'an slurred that Li Shuang was hopelessly in love with him, then advised Su Muyang to let go of the past and accept his loss. Late that night, Li Shuang returned to the residence.
Noticing Ouyang Jun and Qiao'er in a secretive conversation, she invited Ouyang Jun to join Qiao'er and others for dinner. Upon learning that Jin'an was drinking with the Crown Prince, she rushed to Su Muyang's room. She found Jin'an drunkenly sprawled on Su Muyang's bed, babbling nonsensically about waves and being an aquatic dragon. Li Shuang tried to rouse him, while Su Muyang quietly observed. Jin'an, still confused, commented on Li Shuang's hairpin, claiming he had given it to her.
Li Shuang, apologizing to Su Muyang for Jin'an's behavior, promised to bring him to apologize the next day, and then took the highly intoxicated Jin'an away. As they left, Jin'an plucked a flower and playfully placed it in Li Shuang's hair, remarking on its beauty. Despite this playful gesture, Jin'an felt a pang of melancholy. The next morning, Su Muyang's attendant informed him that Li Shuang had not left Jin'an's room after escorting him back the previous night.
Su Muyang had prepared Li Shuang's favorite breakfast dishes, including a specially sweetened pear-blossom pastry, hoping to share it with her. Meanwhile, Jin'an woke up in Li Shuang's bed, horrified and confused, with tear stains on his face from crying all night while hugging her. Li Shuang, seemingly unfazed, simply told him he wouldn't remember and to look in the mirror later, then complimented his crying. She then went to meet Su Muyang, maintaining a distant demeanor.
Su Muyang proposed they spar with tree branches, as they did in their childhood, offering to give her the plain jade hairpin she wore if he won. Li Shuang, however, declined, citing their current lord-subject relationship and her inability to disrespect him. Su Muyang insisted, stating that "General Li cannot do it, but Xiaoshuang can." During their spar, Li Shuang accidentally grazed Su Muyang's wound. An alarmed Huai'en immediately berated Li Shuang for her recklessness.
From a distance, Jin'an, with his acute senses, detected an intensified, ominous scent emanating from Su Muyang. Ignoring Huai'en's protests, Jin'an swiftly pulled open Su Muyang's shirt, revealing the wound, which was oozing black tendrils, a clear sign of poisoning. Lu Xin arrived quickly and stated that if Jin'an hadn't detected the poison in time, Su Muyang would have died instantly. She explained that the poison was formidable and unique, having silently infiltrated his vital organs.
Lu Xin confirmed that the wine Jin'an had given Su Muyang inadvertently stimulated his blood circulation, exposing the poison. Lu Xin admitted she was unfamiliar with such a rare toxin and couldn't guarantee a cure. She suggested moving Su Muyang to her clinic for better care.
Li Shuang expressed grave concern, fearing dire consequences for Lu Xin and the entire Li family if the Crown Prince could not be cured, and worried about the catastrophe it would bring upon the Changfeng Army. Lu Xin, however, dismissed her worries, stating that as a physician, she would do her duty and feared no repercussions, emphasizing her long-standing friendship with Li Shuang.
Later, Jin'an confided in Li Shuang about his extraordinarily sharp five senses, which he had possessed since Li Shuang found him, but had temporarily lost after the incident with the witch in the secret chamber. Li Shuang, recalling how Jin'an had previously heard Li Zhangyi's whispers, understood. She then handed him a poisoned blade, found on one of the assassins, asking him to confirm if the scent matched the poison in Su Muyang's body.
Jin'an, making a lighthearted remark about being used like a bloodhound, confirmed the similarity but noted a missing element. Li Shuang further revealed that the assassins, though disguised as bandits, showed signs of professional training and organized intent, which was unusual for common thieves. She also provided a luxurious money pouch found on an assassin, which seemed out of place for such a person.
Jin'an recognized a familiar scent on the pouch—the calming incense Su Muyang’s late mother used to make for him to aid his sleep, raising questions about why such a potent poison was used if it was a self-inflicted ruse. Setting aside these court intrigues for the moment, Li Shuang decided to move Su Muyang to Lu Xin's clinic.
Episode 19 Recap
As Crown Prince Su Muyang lay poisoned, Lu Xin began treating him with acupuncture, explaining that she needed to slow the blood flow and required time to identify one unknown ingredient in the complex poison. Su Muyang, feeling a slight relief, dismissed Lu Xin and Jin'an to speak with Li Shuang. He confessed that he only bribed the assassin and did not arrange the attempt, regretting that his thorough plan still resulted in an accident. He asked for her forgiveness.
Li Shuang, ever formal, responded that as a humble subject, she was not in a position to forgive a prince. Su Muyang then revealed that he knew she blamed him for abandoning her over the past three years. He recounted how he had pleaded with the Emperor, declaring his love for Li Shuang and refusing to marry Chancellor Ji's daughter.
The Emperor, however, was unyielding, stating that a king's word could not be revoked and that as Crown Prince, his marriage must serve the kingdom. Su Muyang even offered to give up his title, but the Emperor threatened to kill Li Shuang if he defied the imperial decree. Su Muyang tearfully explained that born into royalty, he had no choice, and his actions, though they hurt her, were meant to protect her, a decision that also tore his heart apart.
Outside the General's Residence, Jin'an, who had been guarding, noticed a suspicious figure. The person recognized Jin'an as Prince Annan and attempted to flee to Yao State, but was swiftly killed by Jin Wujian. Meanwhile, Mo Yin, who had been following the mysterious trail for a long distance, lamented the loss of his only lead to Jade Linglong. Jin'an arrived at the scene, immediately accusing Mo Yin of the murder.
Mo Yin playfully deflected, pointing out the open wilderness where anyone could come and go. Jin'an, however, insisted that he smelled the Crown Prince's poison on Mo Yin, accusing him of attempting to harm Su Muyang. Mo Yin, frustrated by the accusations, tried to escape, stating he had urgent matters. Jin'an then transformed into the man in black and fiercely fought Mo Yin.
Defeated, Mo Yin yielded and, upon seeing the flame patterns on Jin'an, instantly recognized him as the legendary shadow puppet, agreeing to follow Jin'an. Back inside, Li Shuang told Su Muyang that she had never blamed him for the past three years, and that with everything now decided, they should let the past remain in the past.
Su Muyang questioned how they could erase their beautiful memories, but then conceded that with his life drawing to a close, there was little he could hold onto. He acknowledged that Li Shuang had known about his bribing of the assassin but had never questioned him, trusting he had his reasons. Su Muyang revealed that his brother had wanted him dead, and he had hoped bribing the assassin would help him escape.
He had sent a messenger to warn Li Shuang not to meet him, hoping to keep her out of the conflict, but was saddened that she was still dragged into it. As Su Muyang expressed his guilt, he suddenly vomited blood and fainted. Just then, Jin'an returned with Mo Yin. Li Shuang, seeing Su Muyang's condition, demanded Mo Yin immediately hand over the antidote.
Mo Yin, protesting his innocence, quickly identified the poison's ingredients: arsenic, curculigo, ruojian, and toxic toads, indicating nefarious motives. Lu Xin was astonished, exclaiming that only those from Wuling Mountain possessed such knowledge. Mo Yin confirmed his origin from Wuling Mountain and urged them to let him save Su Muyang, as there was little time left. Li Shuang, with Jin'an and Lu Xin's agreement, allowed him to try.
Mo Yin explained that the key toxic ingredient was Snow Golden Lotus, a rare poison, but his Icy Jade Worm specialized in consuming it. He then used the worm to draw out the poison from Su Muyang, swiftly clearing it from his system. Lu Xin confirmed that the toxins were gone and Su Muyang would recover in a few days.
Li Shuang, though grateful, invited Mo Yin to stay at the General's Residence for a few days to oversee Su Muyang's recovery, subtly intending to investigate his background. Mo Yin, aware of her true intentions, graciously accepted the "hospitality." Lu Xin, curious about Mo Yin's special worm and the medical practices of Wuling Mountain, volunteered to learn more about him.
She offered Mo Yin tea, then slyly revealed she had poisoned it with a deadly substance, demanding he teach her his medical skills for the antidote. Mo Yin, unfazed, exposed her prank, revealing she had used a mere laxative and had mistakenly drunk the drugged tea herself. Lu Xin was mortified as she began to feel the effects of her own prank. Meanwhile, Jin Wujian was informed that his junior, Mo Yin, had successfully entered the General's Residence.
Jin Wujian praised Mo Yin's resourcefulness, recognizing his mastery of strategy. His subordinate, concerned about the Empress Dowager's dwindling patience, asked for their next move. Elsewhere, Jin'an, deeply worried about Li Shuang, observed Qiao'er training. He desired to protect Li Shuang without having to transform, as using his supernatural strength caused Li Shuang to suffer a backlash. He approached Qiao'er, expressing admiration for her extraordinary strength and asking her to teach him.
Qiao'er, however, was wary of his motives, questioning if he was truly dedicated to the General's Residence or merely trying to win Li Shuang's favor now that the Crown Prince was present. To prove his seriousness, Jin'an proposed a trade: he would teach them to sharpen their five senses if Qiao'er taught him martial arts. Qiao'er agreed, but set a condition: Jin'an must first defeat her.
Later, Mo Yin sought out Jin'an, teasing him for his lack of curiosity about his own origins despite having lost his memory. Mo Yin confronted Jin'an about the flame patterns and his unusual abilities—shape-shifting, bloodlust, self-healing—asking if his condition was linked to him. Jin'an admitted that given Mo Yin's origin from Wuling Mountain and his knowledge of Jin'an's unique traits, he suspected Mo Yin was connected.
Mo Yin then revealed the existence of Jade Linglong, a powerful artifact from Wuling Mountain, explaining that it was both a medicine and a poison. Once implanted, it turns a person into a shadow puppet, granting immense strength and regeneration, but its power is sustained by the blood of a "blood master," creating a blood pact where the puppet is instinctively drawn to and obedient to the master.
Mo Yin confirmed that Li Shuang was Jin'an's blood master, a connection formed by accident when Jade Linglong was stolen from Wuling Mountain years ago. Jin'an immediately worried that the person who originally stole Jade Linglong would come after Li Shuang to regain control. Jin'an insisted his only desire was to protect Li Shuang for a lifetime, but Mo Yin gravely warned that this was wishful thinking.
He explained that as Jade Linglong merged more completely with Jin'an, it would gradually consume his will, turning him into an emotionless killing machine that could eventually harm or even kill Li Shuang. Mo Yin further revealed that Li Shuang's blood and qi were the source of Jade Linglong's power, and her health would continuously deteriorate with Jin'an's increasing integration, eventually leading to her death from exhaustion, even if Jin'an never physically harmed her.
Mo Yin urged Jin'an to return with him to remove Jade Linglong, claiming it was the only way for both of them to survive, and that their current closeness was merely an effect of the artifact. Jin'an, however, remained skeptical, refusing to believe Mo Yin's "supernatural nonsense" without proof of the true instigator behind the Jade Linglong's theft and his condition.
He declared that he possessed enough power to protect Li Shuang or defeat Mo Yin, warning him not to interfere or manipulate Li Shuang. The next morning, Mo Yin again tried to provoke Jin'an into revealing his powers during Qiao'er's training session, but Qiao'er intervened, stating that Jin'an was a member of the General's Residence and would not be bullied by outsiders. Mo Yin, having made his point, then respectfully withdrew.
Soon after, news arrived from the capital that Prince Muli was on his way to Lucheng. Li Shuang understood that the Crown Prince's assassination attempt could not be kept secret, but questioned why the Emperor chose Prince Muli to investigate. She concluded that the intricate power struggles within the palace were beyond their comprehension, and decided that they would simply prepare to welcome Prince Muli, handling any challenges as they arose.
Episode 20 Recap
Jin'an, observing Li Shuang's low spirits, thoughtfully prepared warm wine for her. He explained his heightened senses allowed him to overhear her conversation in the side hall about her worries. Li Shuang, concerned about his extraordinary abilities, specifically asked if he could see through walls, which Jin'an denied, stating his senses were merely enhanced, not magical.
Li Shuang then voiced her deep unease regarding Prince Li (Su Muli), who, being high-ranking and powerful, considered the position of Crown Prince rightfully his. After holding a grudge for three years, Prince Li's arrival in Lucheng meant he would seize any opportunity to eliminate the Crown Prince (Su Muyang). Li Shuang, caught between protecting the Crown Prince and avoiding offending Prince Li, recognized the Li family and Changfeng Army as her vulnerabilities.
Jin'an offered to take responsibility for Su Muyang, assuring Li Shuang he could protect his life, even if he couldn't guarantee getting along with him. Li Shuang's concern shifted to Jin'an's own health, especially since the matter of the Man in Black (Xuan Yi Ke) had reached the capital.
Jin'an revealed his powers were growing, no longer needing to rely on the Lingxu acupoint, and that he would no longer use the "Man in Black" identity, choosing to be known only as Jin'an. Li Shuang expressed worry that his unpredictable bodily changes might harm him and suggested consulting Mo Yin. Jin'an stopped her, claiming he had already asked Mo Yin, who assured him he would be fine as long as he controlled his power.
Jin'an then inquired about Li Shuang's own health, asking if she had taken Lu Xin's tonic. Li Shuang reassured him she was well and hadn't experienced any discomfort since returning from Cang Mountain, believing she wouldn't suffer backlash if Jin'an could control his powers. Jin'an arrived to escort Su Muyang, who immediately questioned if Li Shuang had sent him. Jin'an stated that with Prince Li's imminent arrival in Lucheng, he was now responsible for Su Muyang's personal safety.
Su Muyang, still recovering from the assassination and poisoning attempts, acknowledged Prince Li's clear intention to kill him. He expressed concern that those around him would be in danger, asking if Jin'an feared death. Jin'an retorted that if Su Muyang died, Li Shuang would be the one to suffer, and by protecting him, he was ensuring Li Shuang's peace. He also confidently stated it wouldn't be easy for Prince Li to kill him.
Recognizing Jin'an's genuine care for Li Shuang, Su Muyang recalled Jin'an's past willingness to die for her. Jin'an acknowledged their mutual affection for Li Shuang, stating there would inevitably be a contest, and until a winner was decided, Su Muyang must stay alive. Later, while discussing Prince Li's arrival, Su Muyang asked his servant, Huai'en, about the Man in Black, wondering if he might be hidden within the Changfeng Army or the General's Residence.
A brief, unsettling flashback to his childhood revealed a traumatic moment with his father, underscoring the deep-seated impact of the hand injury he sustained after Su Muli pushed him off a cliff, a memory that still haunted him. Prince Li (Su Muli) arrived in Lucheng, intentionally avoiding meeting General Li (Li Shuang) at the post house, claiming fatigue. He confided in his attendant his plan to personally assess Li Shuang's allegiance.
Regardless of whether the Crown Prince lived or died, Prince Li was determined to eliminate him, believing that if he died, Li Shuang would be implicated even if she refused to surrender. In the General's Residence, Li Shuang formally greeted Prince Li, apologizing for the delayed welcome. Prince Li, feigning concern, spoke of intercepting impeachment memorials against the Li family, implying he had done Li Shuang a great favor and expected her support in return.
When Su Muyang arrived, he too apologized for his delay. Prince Li made a show of concern for Su Muyang's health, asking about his wounds and the poison. He then publicly criticized Su Muyang's guards for their inability to protect him or capture any assassins alive, before declaring he would assign his own "clever and reliable guards" to Su Muyang. Noticing Jin'an serving as Su Muyang's attendant, Prince Li questioned his presence in a house traditionally filled with female retainers.
He then cruelly mocked Li Shuang, suggesting she kept "a wife and a concubine" while far away at the border. Li Shuang attempted to defend herself, but Jin'an cleverly intervened, praising Prince Li's "exceptional perception" for knowing about Su Muyang's poisoning, which was not publicly known, implying Prince Li's complicity. Prince Li then demanded that Mo Yin, the miracle doctor who saved Su Muyang, be brought to dine with them.
Jin'an found Mo Yin, who initially refused, complaining about being overworked at the General's Residence and disdaining "bureaucratic gatherings." Jin'an convinced him by acknowledging the critical situation and promising to consider Mo Yin's proposal to return to Wuling Mountain after the crisis. Mo Yin, still annoyed, likened Jin'an to a mere medicine utensil, but Jin'an ignored him. At the banquet, Prince Li subtly probed Mo Yin, asking if he was the legendary Man in Black.
Mo Yin deflected the question with self-deprecating humor, describing the Man in Black as hideous and unworthy of comparison to his own appearance, implicitly mocking Jin'an. Prince Li then shifted his attention to Li Shuang, casually questioning her report on Li Zhangyi's treason during the Lucheng battle. Li Shuang firmly stated she merely reported the facts, accusing Li Zhangyi of abusing Prince Li's name and potentially tarnishing his reputation.
Prince Li, feigning admiration, then approached Li Shuang with a toast, making an inappropriate comment about her fair skin outshining his concubines, and touched her. Witnessing this, Jin'an's emotions surged, and the Jade Linglong within him reacted, causing the ground to shake. Mo Yin quickly spilled tea on Prince Li, advising him to change his soiled clothes, and then escorted a struggling Jin'an away from the banquet.
Outside, Jin'an lost control as the shadow puppet inside him went berserk, leaving Jin'an unaware of his own actions. Mo Yin, exerting all his strength, managed to restrain him. Mo Yin revealed that if he hadn't intervened at the banquet, everyone there would have died. He insisted that Jin'an must leave with him immediately, as Jin'an was now the greatest danger to Li Shuang. Despite this, Jin'an refused to abandon Li Shuang in her precarious situation.
Li Shuang, suffering internal injuries from Jin'an's rampage, found Jin'an consumed by guilt. She reassured him she was fine and urged him to control his resentment. She understood Prince Li would not go too far due to the Changfeng Army's influence, but insisted that now was not the time to openly defy him. As Prince Li prepared to depart, he continued his humiliation, demanding Su Muyang kneel and serve as his footrest.
When Li Shuang protested, Prince Li insisted she do it instead. To protect Li Shuang, Su Muyang reluctantly knelt, allowing Prince Li to step on him. Jin'an observed the public display, realizing that if Su Muyang continued to yield, things would only worsen. Back in his room, Su Muyang, consumed by rage, smashed the room's furnishings. As Jin'an handed him a vase, he noticed Su Muyang’s supposedly injured hand move with perfect agility.
Su Muyang, caught off guard, froze for a moment before quickly reverting to his usual handicapped state. Jin'an then tried to calm him, urging him not to succumb to Prince Li's provocations and reminding him that a true general never gives up, even against overwhelming odds. Su Muyang then revealed another mission from his father: to find the Man in Black and bring him back to the capital for an audience.
Li Shuang quickly spoke up, expressing her trust in the Man in Black, asserting that the Changfeng Army's collective strength, not just one individual, turned the tide in Lucheng. She stated her willingness to trust the Man in Black, having fought alongside him and entrusted their lives to each other. Su Muyang, accepting her stance, dropped the topic.
He then tried to offer Li Shuang a drink, wishing her a happy birthday, but she declined, stating she hadn't celebrated her birthday in a long time and reminded him of his unhealed condition. Suddenly, Li Shuang felt dizzy. Jin'an, recognizing it as a backlash symptom, blamed himself for losing control again and causing her pain. Li Shuang, however, comforted him, reassuring him of her resolve to live for him and her mission.
She explained her purpose in supporting Su Muyang: with an incompetent Emperor and a cruel Prince Li, only Su Muyang, benevolent and kind, offered hope for a peaceful Taijin and a better life for its people. With such important work ahead, she affirmed her commitment to living well. Jin'an then led Li Shuang to a secluded, beautiful mountain spot, explaining it was a warm, blooming oasis year-round due to a hot spring.
He presented it as a birthday gift, having heard from Su Muyang that it was her special day. Li Shuang confessed it wasn't her actual birth date but the day her adoptive father, Grand General Li, found and raised her. Jin'an, also an orphan unaware of his true birthdate, suggested they make it their shared birthday.
He envisioned a future where, after overcoming their current difficulties, they would celebrate every year "to the fullest" and travel "hand in hand to many places" to "enjoy all the beautiful landscapes, year after year, for an eternity," echoing the sentiment of being "born together, as we'll die together."
Episode 21 Recap
In the General's Residence, Mo Yin sat cross-legged when he sensed movement at the door. Investigating, he found a leaf pointing the way, recognizing it as a summons from Jin Wujian. Without hesitation, Mo Yin set off to meet him. Although Jin Wujian had long been expelled from Wuling Mountain, Mo Yin still regarded him as a respected elder brother.
A shadow of sadness crossed Mo Yin's face as he spoke of their adoptive father, revealing that the old man had passed away. Jin Wujian recalled with deep regret how his misguided practice of forbidden techniques led to his expulsion from the sect, and how that proved to be his last encounter with their adoptive father. Jin Wujian, his expression grave, explained his purpose.
He had heard about Jade Linglong and, after some investigation, discovered that both Jade Linglong and its shadow puppet were hidden within the General's Residence. Despite his expulsion, he had never forgotten his master's kindness and initially intended to return Jade Linglong to Wuling Mountain. However, his repeated attempts to trap the elusive shadow puppet had failed, even leaving him injured.
He warned that if not dealt with swiftly, it would become a great menace and urged Mo Yin to join forces with him. Mo Yin, however, held a different view. He felt the situation hadn't escalated to that point, and as a healer, one should not casually take a life. Jin Wujian then hatched a plan, secretly instructing men to impersonate the man in black and commit murders across the city, ensuring the news spread widely.
Upon hearing the reports, Mo Yin mistakenly believed Jin'an was responsible. Enraged, he confronted Jin'an, who appeared innocent, stating he had been at the General's Residence daily and had no time for such acts. Jin'an further argued that masks could be bought anywhere, and accused Mo Yin of trying to frame him. Mo Yin decided to take Jin'an back to Wuling Mountain, but Jin'an vehemently refused.
In their confrontation, Jin'an had an opportunity to harm Mo Yin but held back, which made Mo Yin begin to doubt his initial judgment, thinking Jin'an didn't seem like someone who would wantonly kill innocents. However, Mo Yin ultimately decided he couldn't simply take Jin'an's word and began planning to refine Kongqing Water as a precaution. Meanwhile, Jin'an grappled with his internal conflict. Mo Yin had once told him he was Li Shuang's greatest danger.
Remembering Li Shuang's belief that Su Muyang would make a good emperor, bringing peace to the people, Jin'an resolved to help her achieve this wish. Seeing Su Muyang's lack of appetite, Jin'an pressed him, pointing out that Prince Muli's bullying would only escalate. Su Muyang lamented his mother's low birth, Muli's animosity, and his own powerlessness as Crown Prince. He believed his position was precarious.
During a game of Go, Jin'an made a move that broke a long-standing deadlock, telling Su Muyang that perhaps he was trapped by his own mindset. Jin'an noted Su Muyang's lingering resentment, indicating he still had a fighting spirit, but criticized his self-pity. Jin'an explained that Muli's constant attacks were because Su Muyang was an obstacle to his ascension, and continuous retreat would only lead to a dead end.
He then boldly suggested that Su Muyang should aim for the throne. Su Muyang was startled but admitted he never seriously considered it. Jin'an warned him that if he didn't fight for power, others would eliminate him, leaving him in a more humiliating and miserable state. After Su Muyang expressed doubts about contending with Muli's vast influence, Jin'an revealed his identity as the man in black, offering to be Su Muyang's ally.
Concurrently, Jin Wujian and Mo Yin began refining Kongqing Water. Jin Wujian explained that only the combination of orthodox and unorthodox techniques could create this elixir, the sole substance capable of suppressing Jade Linglong. Mo Yin cautioned Jin Wujian that even with forbidden techniques, mishaps could occur, urging him to stop if anything unusual happened. Jin Wujian pledged to give the Kongqing Water to Mo Yin after refining it for forty-nine days, though he harbored secret intentions.
Jin'an also saw through Su Muyang's feigned crippled hand, realizing that Li Shuang's lifelong aspiration for lasting peace and prosperity in Taijin could only be achieved through Su Muyang. Guided by Jin'an, Su Muyang sent trivial gifts to Ji Tianjiao and a letter to her father, the Prime Minister. The letter subtly painted Su Muyang as a disrespected Crown Prince who missed Yunjing and relied solely on the Prime Minister.
This pleased the Prime Minister, who promised to handle the matters mentioned in the letter. Jin'an further advised Su Muyang to plant seeds of discord among Muli's allies by exploiting their self-interest and to use his title to gain greater leverage. He warned Su Muyang against showing mercy, stating that "once a wolf has its prey in its jaws, it never lets go easily," and that every act of kindness would be repaid with the enemy's cruelty.
Li Shuang grew concerned, hearing that Jin'an was taking Su Muyang out and about. Noticing her worry, Su Muyang left, instructing Jin'an to keep Li Shuang company. Li Shuang playfully chided Jin'an for his recklessness, but Jin'an recognized her underlying concern. He then gazed at her deeply, explaining his fear of forgetting her, as he had already lost many memories from his past. Li Shuang promised that if he ever forgot her, she would find him, no matter how far.
They made a solemn pact. Prince Muli, learning of Su Muyang's growing influence, resolved to take his life, especially as the day of the ritual approached. He sent an invitation for Su Muyang, Li Shuang, and Jin'an to join a hunt. Li Shuang and Jin'an immediately recognized the invitation for what it was—a thinly veiled attempt at assassination. During the hunt, Li Shuang, witnessing Muli's attempt on Su Muyang's life, confronted him, holding him at dagger-point.
She defiantly declared the Changfeng Army's loyalty to the Crown Prince, refusing Muli's offer of a high position. Jin'an urged Su Muyang to stand firm, reminding him that a prince must always stand tall. Su Muyang then asserted his authority as the rightful Crown Prince, accusing Muli of treason.
Despite Muli's attempts to dismiss it as a misunderstanding, Su Muyang chose to show Muli mercy, stating he would "open one side of the net" out of brotherly affection, but firmly reminding him that he was the sole Crown Prince of Taijin. While Su Muyang felt a surge of satisfaction, he knew Muli would not easily forgive this public humiliation. As expected, Muli sought retaliation.
Upon learning that Lu Xin, owner of the Sixu Clinic, was a close friend of Li Shuang, he ordered her clinic to be set on fire. Tragically, Lu Xin's aide, Nanxing, perished in the blaze. Li Shuang was heartbroken. Shortly after, Muli sent men to the General's Residence, wielding an imperial dagger—a personal possession of the Emperor, equivalent to a national treasure—demanding that Su Muyang be handed over. Quick-thinking maids, including Qiao'er, rushed Su Muyang into a secret room.
When confronted by Muli's men, the maids bravely feigned ignorance, stating that both the Crown Prince and General Li were out. When pressed about the man in black, the maid remained silent.
Episode 22 Recap
At the General's Residence, Su Muli aggressively questioned the servants about the whereabouts of the Crown Prince and the man in black. Qiao, one of the servants, asserted they were merely subordinates and had no knowledge of their masters' movements. Su Muli, his brow furrowed in anger, accused her of using the General's Residence to pressure him.
He then declared that since the man in black was close to Li Shuang and had committed murder, he must be hiding within the residence. Without waiting for further answers, Su Muli ordered all the General's Residence staff to be bound and taken to his own mansion, believing someone would eventually reveal information. Just then, Ouyang Jun arrived, happily carrying food for Qiao. He witnessed the distressing scene, his eyes wide in disbelief.
The food slipped from his grasp as he watched helplessly while Qiao and the others were led away. Jin'an and Li Shuang quickly received news of the capture. Jin'an, determined, decided he would go alone to rescue Qiao and the others. Li Shuang, her expression grave, found Mo Yin and entrusted Lu Xin to his care, promising that she would hold someone accountable for the day's events.
Qiao and the other captured servants were taken to Su Muli's residence and subjected to brutal beatings. Despite the pain, Qiao remained silent and defiant. Enraged by her loyalty, Su Muli mercilessly killed Ling, another servant. Watching Ling fall, Qiao was heartbroken but showed no fear, having already decided she wouldn't leave alive. As Ouyang Jun, frantic with worry, broke into Su Muli's mansion searching for Qiao, he was repeatedly intercepted by Su Muli's men, preventing him from reaching her.
Meanwhile, Li Shuang returned to the secret room where Su Muyang was hidden. He sat dejectedly, believing he was merely a pawn used by the Emperor to balance Su Muli, now to be discarded. Li Shuang, however, approached him with a firm gaze, affirming her recognition of him as the Crown Prince.
She instructed him to remain safe in the secret room while she confronted Su Muli alone, emphasizing that her actions would be her own, unrelated to the Changfeng Army or the Li family. Jin'an, disguised as the man in black, arrived at Su Muli's residence. He saw Ouyang Jun and Qiao held hostage by Su Muli. Jin'an's steps faltered, a moment of struggle in his eyes as he hesitated. Qiao, seeing both Ouyang Jun and Jin'an, made a decisive choice.
To prevent herself from becoming a burden, she suddenly used Su Muli's own dagger to end her life. With her dying breath, she urged Jin'an not to kill Su Muli and to protect Li Shuang. Overcome with rage, Jin'an furiously seized Su Muli by the neck. Ouyang Jun crawled to Qiao, cradling her as he watched his beloved die in his arms, utterly devastated.
Li Shuang rushed into the residence, her weapon clutched tightly in her hand, only to be met with the sight of Qiao's lifeless body. Su Muli, unperturbed, sneered and revealed a shocking truth: the Crown Prince was destined to sacrifice his life for the Emperor due to a celestial prophecy, the "Mars retrograding near Antares" calamity.
He claimed this was the Emperor's will, and by protecting Su Muyang, Li Shuang was defying an imperial order, which would result in the entire Li family's demise. As Li Shuang's grip tightened on her weapon, Jin'an intervened. He dragged Su Muli to Qiao's side, stabbed him through the hand, and forced him to kowtow and apologize to Qiao.
Jin'an knew Li Shuang could not kill Su Muli without dire consequences for her family, and this was the only way to honor Qiao's spirit. Later, Li Shuang visited Qiao's room, its familiar furnishings a painful reminder of the past. Memories flooded back of her teaching Qiao to read and write. Tears streamed down her face as she recalled Qiao's earnestness and devotion. Jin'an discovered a letter from Qiao, her last will.
In it, she wrote that while Jin'an might "play the pig to eat the tiger," he was a good person because he treated the General well. She bequeathed her "treasures"—a collection of sandbags used for training—to Jin'an, should she die in battle. Looking at the sandbags, Jin'an felt Qiao's enduring spirit and vowed to protect Li Shuang at all costs. Ouyang Jun, carrying Qiao's memorial tablet, sought leave from the Changfeng Army camp.
His eyes were vacant, filled only with hatred for which he could find no immediate vengeance. As he journeyed, he saw a young girl performing street tricks, her appearance strikingly similar to Qiao's when she was young. He stopped, moved by the sight, and decided to take her in. Su Muyang, hearing of Qiao's death, was consumed by guilt. Li Shuang found him and, with a heavy heart, asked him to prepare his belongings and leave.
Confused, Su Muyang questioned her decision, reminding her of her earlier promise to protect him and his offer to stand by her against Su Muli. Li Shuang, taking a deep breath, explained that he was the Emperor's "solution" to the celestial calamity and that the Emperor intended for him to die. She confessed she could not defy an imperial order. Su Muyang knelt before her, begging her as "Brother Yang," his childhood friend, to save him.
He accused her of prioritizing Jin'an over their long-standing bond. However, Li Shuang's heart was torn by her concern for Jin'an's safety and the fate of her entire family. Ultimately, Su Muyang departed, his heart heavy with resentment. Li Shuang later broke down in Mo Yin's arms, lamenting her inability to protect those she cared for, while Mo Yin somberly remarked that even immense strength cannot overcome the malice of those lurking in the shadows.
Episode 23 Recap
Lu Xin was deeply saddened by a recent upheaval. Mo Yin offered her medicine to soothe her sorrow, reminding her that Nanxing had sacrificed his life for her and would want her to live well, not to be consumed by guilt. He urged her to be strong, as the departed are gone and the living must continue their journey. Meanwhile, Li Shuang was in a grave mood, aware of countless eyes on the General's Residence.
To protect Crown Prince Su Muyang, a grand charade was essential. She explained to Jin'an that they couldn't return to Yunjing, and she would find a safe place to send the Crown Prince. She lamented the Emperor's despicable methods, asserting that safeguarding the Crown Prince was the last hope for Taijin. Jin'an hoped Su Muyang would understand Li Shuang's difficult decision.
Upon learning of Li Shuang and Su Muyang's supposed falling out, Su Muli immediately dispatched men to intercept the carriage, determined to bring the Crown Prince back to his residence. In the carriage, Su Muyang felt a profound sadness, believing Li Shuang had truly sent him away for her own self-preservation. He knew he couldn't easily leave Lucheng, acknowledging that his life, sustained through years of fear and humility, was already a luxury.
His loyal guard, Huai'en, refused to abandon him, vowing to protect him until death. Su Muyang, sensing the pervasive danger in Lucheng, prepared to face his "final ordeal." Unexpectedly, Li Shuang had already swapped the carriages. When Su Muli's men intercepted, they found only Jin'an inside. Jin'an, playing his part, allowed them to pursue him, successfully diverting attention while the real Su Muyang, protected by the General's friends and students, quietly left Lucheng.
However, Li Shuang soon received alarming news: Su Muyang's carriage never reached its designated rendezvous point, and he had disappeared. Su Muyang and Huai'en awoke to find themselves captive, unaware of their location. They had been taken by Jin Wujian, not Su Muli, as Su Muyang initially suspected. Jin Wujian, whose true purpose was to exploit Su Muyang, claimed he couldn't stand by and watch the Crown Prince be oppressed.
He offered Su Muyang a path to overcome his predicament and rise to power, but in return, he demanded something specific from the General's Residence. Feeling responsible for Su Muyang's disappearance, Li Shuang decided to search for him personally. Jin'an, deeply worried, followed her. Near Su Muyang's abandoned carriage, they found a familiar silver needle, tracing the footsteps away from the scene. The tracks, however, soon vanished.
Li Shuang pondered why the user of the silver needle, who usually targeted Jin'an, had focused on the Crown Prince this time. She realized that Su Muyang, her only friend in childhood, was now in danger due to her miscalculations, and she blamed herself. Jin'an urged Li Shuang to attend to her own wounds first, expressing his deep concern for her well-being.
He understood her inclination to shoulder all burdens alone and reassured her that he would stand by her, sharing the load. He confessed his desire to end the turmoil and live a peaceful life with her. Li Shuang, acknowledging her role as a general, stated she couldn't afford to show weakness. Jin'an, however, saw her not just as everyone's general, but as his beloved Li Shuang.
As Li Shuang's search team ventured deeper into the forest, Jin Wujian was informed of their approach. He pressed Su Muyang to make a swift decision, reiterating his offer of protection and a path to power, knowing that Su Muyang's life was at stake against Su Muli. Su Muyang, feeling increasingly helpless, began to waver. Jin Wujian then revealed his true demand: the man in black from the General's Residence, Jin'an.
Li Shuang and Jin'an, following a strong premonition, heard Su Muyang's cries for help. They found Su Muyang and Huai'en unconscious in a cave and swiftly rescued them. Upon their return to the General's Residence, Mo Yin examined Su Muyang and Huai'en. He observed traces of Wuling Mountain techniques on Huai'en's injuries, a detail he found puzzling but chose to keep to himself for the moment. Su Muyang attributed his abduction to Su Muli's men.
Li Shuang, sensing Mo Yin's concealment, asked him to apply medicine to her own minor wound, using the opportunity to discreetly inquire about Su Muyang and Huai'en's conditions. Mo Yin attempted to evade her questions with vague responses, but Li Shuang produced the silver needle they had found, instantly changing Mo Yin's demeanor. Under her implied threat, Mo Yin reluctantly confessed his true purpose in the General's Residence: to find Jin'an, the man in black.
He explained that Jin'an carried the Jade Linglong, a sacred relic of Wuling Mountain, and that its removal was essential not only to save Jin'an but also Li Shuang and all living beings. He added that regardless of whether it was removed, Jin'an would lose all memories related to Li Shuang, a fact Jin'an had already known but concealed to spare her worry.
Mo Yin clarified that he was not an accomplice to the silver needle's owner, as his own adoptive father had been murdered, and the Jade Linglong stolen, with the same needle found at the crime scene. When Li Shuang presented him with a portrait of Jin Wujian, Mo Yin was visibly startled.
He promised to confirm the identity and warned Li Shuang to be cautious, emphasizing that Jin Wujian's actions in abducting and then returning Su Muyang without harm indicated a more complex and dangerous agenda. Late that night, Lu Xin was still crafting dolls representing Nanxing's wife and child. Mo Yin joined her, encouraging her to move past her grief, as Nanxing would want her to live.
Lu Xin, however, expressed a burning desire for revenge, which unsettled Mo Yin, who was grappling with the possibility that Jin Wujian was responsible for his adoptive father's death. Before his impending departure, Mo Yin gave Lu Xin a Clear Moon Pearl to help her rebuild her clinic, acknowledging it as a practical gift for worldly needs. Mo Yin then sought out Jin'an, reminding him of their agreement to return to Wuling Mountain.
Jin'an affirmed his commitment, explaining that the Jade Linglong's connection to Li Shuang's life had solidified his decision. However, he insisted on staying to help Li Shuang navigate the current crisis in Lucheng. Mo Yin warned him about the unpredictable nature of the Jade Linglong, recounting a past incident where a shadow puppet lost control and massacred an entire village.
Jin'an, contemplating the grim possibility of losing control, extracted a promise from Mo Yin: should he go mad, Mo Yin must ensure the safety of everyone in the General's Residence, even if it meant killing Jin'an himself. Mo Yin, touched by Jin'an's selfless concern, agreed to his request and pledged to do his utmost, even if it meant sacrificing himself. Later, Jin Wujian met with Su Muli, offering him a significant "gift."
He advised Su Muli to launch a direct assault on the General's Residence to eliminate Su Muyang, assuring him that the formidable man in black, Jin'an, would not intervene on "the day of the heavenly calamity."
Episode 24 Recap
Jin Wujian assured Su Muli that Jin'an, the "man in black" under Li Shuang, would not interfere with Su Muli's plans on the day of the heavenly calamity. Jin Wujian declared his intention to deliver Su Muyang to Su Muli, giving Su Muli complete control over his brother's fate.
When Su Muli questioned why he should trust him, Jin Wujian revealed his knowledge of Su Muli's tampering with the Taijin Emperor's golden elixir, asserting that the Emperor had little time left. Jin Wujian then pointed out that with the Emperor's impending death and Su Muyang's succession, Su Muli would be left with no escape.
Su Muli, astonished, demanded to know Jin Wujian's identity, but Jin Wujian dismissed it as irrelevant, stating that Su Muli's future was entirely in his own hands. Jin Wujian later explained to the Empress Dowager of Yao that his strategy of turning Su Muyang and Su Muli against each other was to plunge Taijin into chaos, paving the way for the Yao State's great ambition to conquer the realm.
He confirmed that the altar preparations were nearly complete, and the Yao State's great ambition to conquer the realm would soon be realized. Li Shuang bandaged Jin'an’s wounds and offered him medicine, playfully teasing him for being afraid of the bitterness before offering him sugar. She then pressed him about their future, including when he would marry her, how many children they would have, and where they would settle down.
Jin'an, while appreciating her directness, said he wanted to marry her but needed more time to prepare, specifically to afford a wedding sedan chair. Later, Li Shuang suggested they go out and enjoy some "time to relax," as they had been busy with Su Muyang's affairs. Jin'an playfully noted her unusual romantic mood, and Li Shuang explained she wanted to "make it up to him" and avoid "feeling only regret" in the future.
As they strolled through the bustling night market, Li Shuang urged Jin'an to hold her hand, fearing she might get lost among the crowds. Jin'an, however, hesitated, citing her esteemed position as General Li. Li Shuang then reflected on their wish to become an ordinary couple, wondering if they would still remember the "joy of our first meeting" even after their lives became filled with "mundane chores."
Jin'an joked that their initial meeting was "somewhat awkward," suggesting it was "better forgotten." They watched a storyteller perform a shadow puppet show detailing the history of Duan Aodeng, Prince Annan of the Yao State, and Li Wei, Grand General of Cavalry of Taijin, who was Li Shuang's father.
Jin'an reacted with an intense, unexplained feeling to Duan Aodeng's name, learning that Duan Aodeng disappeared during the Battle of Lucheng, leading to the collapse of the Yao Army and the death of the Yao Emperor. Jin'an, deeply affected, bought a shadow puppet for Li Shuang, who had been admiring it. Li Shuang later confronted Jin'an about his plan to retrieve the Jade Linglong, revealing she had learned the truth from Mo Yin.
She asked how long he intended to keep her in the dark, and if he planned to leave her after everything was over, bearing the burden alone. Jin'an explained that he lost control during Su Muli's recent visit, causing her to experience "rebound symptoms," which he desperately wanted to avoid. He feared that the process of removing the Jade Linglong could harm her, and its removal would erase all his memories, making his departure an eternal farewell.
Li Shuang, however, asserted that as his blood master, only her presence could prevent him from losing control. She reminded him of his past promise that they would be together in life and death, questioning if he intended to go back on his word. Jin'an reaffirmed that he had "never regretted" their bond and "never will." Li Shuang declared that regardless of the outcome, as long as they were together, there would be no regrets.
She vowed that even if he lost his memories, she would help him remember her again. Upon their return to the General's Residence, Li Shuang and Jin'an found it surrounded by Su Muli's armed guards. A guard informed them that, by Su Muli's order, no one could enter or leave, with violators facing immediate execution.
Jin'an's defiant outburst was quelled by a threat against Li Shuang's father, Grand General Li Wei, and her younger brother in the capital, forcing her to comply. Meanwhile, Su Muyang, confined within the residence, expressed his frustration to a subordinate, believing himself trapped and at Su Muli's mercy. He felt Li Shuang's past support was merely a facade, as she had seemingly favored Jin'an's actions over his, a realization he felt he should have reached earlier.
Jin Wujian reported to the Empress Dowager, boasting about his successful manipulation of both Jin'an and the two Taijin princes. He revealed his plan: with the Taijin Emperor's impending death and the ensuing internal conflict between the brothers, the Taijin throne would be ripe for the taking, promising the Empress Dowager "the entire world." Jin Wujian then appeared wearing the late Taijin Emperor's old clothes, provoking the Empress Dowager's furious demand that he remove them.
He confessed his long-standing love for her, willing even to be a mere substitute for her affections, but she coldly questioned his worthiness, prompting him to retreat in silence. On the eve of the sacrifice, Su Muyang discovered a note from Jin Wujian, detailing a plan to meet in a dense forest after a fireworks signal on the night of the ninth.
Su Muyang realized his father’s past affections were a facade, and the emperor had intended to send him to his death. Feeling abandoned by Li Shuang and Jin'an despite their promises, he resolved to defy fate rather than remain a pawn. Separately, Li Shuang and Jin'an discussed the grave implications of protecting Su Muyang, which meant defying the Emperor.
Jin'an dismissed the "astrological omens" and the "unconscionable" act of a father killing his son, believing the Changfeng Army's support for the Crown Prince would be seen as loyalty. Li Shuang noted that Jin'an was risking his own life for everyone else, to which he affirmed his unwavering support for her. They reflected on their deep bond, with Jin'an recalling Li Shuang’s "divine" appearance in armor, even as she remembered her "terrible state" and his efforts to protect her.
They both expressed a desire for a simple, ordinary life together, vowing to remain inseparable and overcome current difficulties to achieve their dreams. Su Muyang then sent his attendant, Huai'en, to invite Li Shuang and Jin'an to a feast, citing his appreciation for their hard work. Despite their suspicions, they agreed to attend. At the feast, Su Muyang, indulging in pleasures, remarked that since his death was imminent, he might as well enjoy himself.
He then provocatively demanded Li Shuang to dance. When Jin'an protested, Su Muyang asserted his authority as the Crown Prince, making his request an undeniable command. Li Shuang then drew her sword and, with Jin'an, performed a joint sword dance. Afterward, Su Muyang personally offered them two cups of wine, making a cryptic remark about it possibly being poisoned, but expressing gratitude for their past care and their shared youth before watching them drink.
Soon after, fireworks lit the sky, signaling Su Muli's attack on the General's Residence. As Li Shuang prepared to lead the defense, Su Muyang requested Jin'an to stay by his side for reassurance. As Su Muli's forces launched their assault, Li Shuang bravely drew an arrow, designating it as a line no one should cross, warning that transgressors would be slain. Su Muli, observing the battle, mocked Li Shuang, questioning the efficacy of Jin'an in her defense.
Inside, Su Muyang remained eerily calm amidst the chaos. He cynically asserted to Jin'an that Li Shuang's efforts to protect him were solely to safeguard her family and the Changfeng Army, not out of any genuine concern. He claimed to have once believed their promises but now felt abandoned "like a worn-out shoe," regretting his past naivety. He believed Jin'an’s help was also merely a byproduct of his loyalty to Li Shuang. Jin'an vehemently refuted Su Muyang's accusations.
He argued that if they intended to abandon him, they would have simply handed him over to Su Muli directly, rather than orchestrating an elaborate carriage switch to mislead Su Muli and buy time for his escape. Jin'an emphasized that Li Shuang was currently risking her life to protect him, while he sat inside resenting her. He passionately defended Li Shuang, explaining that her actions were often driven by necessity.
He reminded Su Muyang that as her only brother and friend, having grown up together, he, above all others, should understand her true intentions. Su Muyang, however, merely thanked Jin'an, concluding that "all of this is too late."
Episode 25 Recap
Li Shuang, feeling deeply misunderstood, confronted Su Muyang, asking how he, her only brother and friend, could fail to understand her. Su Muyang, however, replied that it was "too late." Moments later, one of Jin Wujian's subordinates entered, whom Jin'an recognized. The subordinate, remarking on Jin'an's keen senses, announced that he was there to kill everyone present as they were "busy." Jin'an discovered that his supernatural strength had vanished due to chains binding him.
The subordinate then rendered Jin'an unconscious with a silver needle. Su Muyang, having already drugged the wine, spoke to Jin Wujian's man, urging him to remind Jin Wujian not to forget his promise. Su Muyang then gave a route map to his own subordinate, instructing him to spread word after his departure, ensuring Su Muli would pursue him to a secret forest where Jin Wujian would be waiting to strike.
As Su Muyang made his escape through a back door, Su Muli's subordinate reported this, confirming that a mysterious person's predictions were correct. Su Muli then ordered his men to kill everyone in the General's Residence. The ensuing battle lasted until dawn, leaving most of the residents dead. When Li Shuang learned that both Jin'an and Su Muyang were missing, she quickly set off in pursuit, following their hoofprints.
Su Muyang, following the map, arrived at a location that Su Muli revealed to be an altar specifically designed for a "heavenly tribulation." Su Muli mocked Su Muyang for walking into his own demise, explaining that the altar, with all its elaborate and deadly details—including an ice lotus with a three-edged spike meant to pierce his throat—was meticulously prepared by their father and the Imperial Astrologer.
Su Muli declared that while the altar was for Su Muyang's demise, he would personally ensure his brother died by his own hand, not by the altar's spikes. Su Muyang, realizing he had been tricked, cried out, asking why Jin Wujian had deceived him, questioning if he still held hope for rescue. He then turned to Su Muli, asking what he had done to deserve such treatment from his own brother.
Su Muli responded that Su Muyang's very position as Crown Prince stood in his way, and he did not trust him. Su Muyang asserted that he was weak and had only striven to survive. He then furiously condemned Su Muli as being more ruthless than a wolf, vowing to haunt him as a vengeful ghost if he died. Just as Su Muli was about to deliver the final blow, Li Shuang appeared, defiantly challenging anyone to harm Su Muyang.
Su Muli ordered his men to kill her. Before they could, he activated a switch, dropping Su Muyang into a secret chamber below. Without hesitation, Li Shuang bravely jumped in after him. Jin Wujian brought the unconscious Jin'an to a different location. Mo Yin confronted Jin Wujian, revealing that Jin Wujian had secretly kept the Kongqing Water for himself. Mo Yin, upon seeing Jin Wujian's weapon, realized that Jin Wujian was the true killer of their Godfather.
Jin Wujian admitted to the murder, expressing no remorse, and instead blamed Mo Yin for taking everything that was rightfully his, which had forced him to practice forbidden techniques and be expelled from the mountain. He declared that with the "shadow puppet" in his hands, he alone would now decide right and wrong. Meanwhile, Su Muyang and Li Shuang found themselves trapped in quicksand within the secret chamber.
Li Shuang urged Su Muyang to take her hand, emphasizing her duty as his subject to protect him and the importance of the "bigger picture" for the sake of the country and its people. Su Muyang, consumed by guilt for failing to protect her, was reluctant to save himself at her expense, lamenting his inability to protect those he loved. Li Shuang, recalling their shared past, insisted that one cannot live only for oneself.
She pleaded with him to survive, "live with your head held high," and to promise to protect the Li family and the Changfeng Army. With immense effort, Li Shuang pushed Su Muyang to safety, sacrificing herself as she sank further into the quicksand. As Jin Wujian declared his intention to send Mo Yin to join their Godfather, Jin'an, still unconscious, stirred and called out Li Shuang's name.
As Li Shuang felt her life ebbing away, she removed her plain jade hairpin, hoping Jin'an would find it and understand that she had perished there. Suddenly, Jin'an, sensing Li Shuang's peril, began to forcefully break free from the Jade Linglong's control, alarming Mo Yin, who feared he would lose all control. Despite Mo Yin's warnings, Jin'an successfully broke free and, in the nick of time, rescued Li Shuang from the quicksand.
However, the strain of breaking the Jade Linglong caused him to lose control, and he began to choke Li Shuang. A blood bead momentarily appeared, causing Jin'an to pause, and Li Shuang, seeing a flicker of recognition, desperately asked if he still remembered her. But Mo Yin, believing Jin'an was an "emotionless killing machine," shattered the blood bead, causing Jin'an to fully lose control. Li Shuang, injured and in distress, refused to believe Jin'an had forgotten her.
Seeing Li Shuang's injury and Jin'an's unstable state, Mo Yin warned Jin'an that he was still affected by the Kongqing Water. Jin'an, regaining some awareness, threatened Mo Yin, saying that if he didn't save Li Shuang, Jade Linglong would die with him. Mo Yin reluctantly agreed to save Li Shuang, on the condition that Jin'an returned with him. Jin'an accepted. Su Muyang, having escaped the quicksand, was soon intercepted by Su Muli.
Su Muli gloated, expressing surprise at Su Muyang's survival, assuming Li Shuang had sacrificed herself. He mocked Su Muyang as an ungrateful hypocrite and, holding a dagger coated with deadly poison, announced his intention to personally send Su Muyang to his grave. However, in a flashback, it was revealed that Su Muyang had orchestrated this final confrontation.
After enduring Su Muli's taunts and being repeatedly stabbed, Su Muyang, who had for years meticulously hidden the fact that his right hand was fully functional, suddenly retaliated. He confronted Su Muli, questioning if he ever imagined that a "loser" like him could be his downfall, explaining that all his feigned weakness was merely a ruse to exact his revenge. With Su Muli now at his mercy, Su Muyang relished the reversal of their roles.
When Su Muli desperately pleaded for mercy, reminding Su Muyang of their brotherhood, Su Muyang retorted, recalling all the humiliation and attempts on his life, asking when Su Muli ever considered him a brother or even a human being. Su Muyang then personally plunged the poisoned dagger into Su Muli, completing his long-awaited revenge. Meanwhile, Li Shuang awoke to find Jin'an and Mo Yin gone.
She set out to find them and discovered Su Muli's lifeless body, alongside a seemingly distraught Su Muyang, who claimed that Jin'an was the killer. On Wuling Mountain, Mo Yin tended to Jin'an, who had refused to eat or drink for several days and was in critical condition. Jin'an blamed Mo Yin for injuring Li Shuang, but Mo Yin explained that with Jade Linglong out of control, the situation was dire, and the injury was unintentional.
He assured Jin'an that he had given Li Shuang medicine and her fate was now "up to fate." Jin'an, however, threatened to "bathe Wuling Mountain in blood" if anything happened to Li Shuang, to which Mo Yin retorted that self-destruction would not help her. Mo Yin then informed Jin'an that everything was prepared to remove Jade Linglong the following day, warning him of the "unbearably painful" process.
Jin'an's primary concern was returning to Li Shuang, but Mo Yin suggested that his love and loyalty might be a result of the "blood pact," implying that once it was broken, he would be free from such emotional burdens. Jin'an, rejecting Mo Yin's detached perspective on love, affirmed his deep bond with Li Shuang, recalling her treating him better than anyone except his father, and her urging him to "live with your head held high."
Meanwhile, news of Su Muli's death reached the capital, causing the Emperor to fall gravely ill and collapse. Su Muyang, receiving this intelligence, recognized that "it's time" for his next move. Reflecting on Li Shuang's selfless act of saving him, he understood she never truly abandoned him and resolved to reward her. His subordinate highlighted that with Prince Li gone and his faction in disarray, it was the perfect opportunity for Su Muyang to return and "seize power."
Su Muyang decided to return to Yunjing to manage Su Muli's funeral and address the power vacuum. He instructed his subordinate to remain behind and care for Li Shuang, promising to send for her once affairs in the capital were settled. Upon his return, Su Muyang immediately met with his father-in-law, the Prime Minister. He thanked the Prime Minister for his secret support in his escape and safe return.
He then revealed the shocking truth that the Emperor had planned to sacrifice him years ago, swayed by a "mystic charlatan" who prophesied a heavenly tribulation. Su Muyang explained that even his marriage to the Prime Minister's daughter, Tianjiao, was part of a scheme to create a "perfect destiny" and that Tianjiao herself would be sacrificed after his death to conceal the scandal. He expressed his desire to protect his wife and his father-in-law's family from this tragic fate.
The Prime Minister, horrified by this revelation, acknowledged Su Muyang's vulnerability as a mere heir. Su Muyang further explained that he had only shared this secret with him, as all other knowing parties had perished in Lucheng. Seizing the moment, the Prime Minister urged Su Muyang to exploit the Emperor's illness, declaring that there was "no turning back now" and that Su Muyang must "advance even further." Su Muyang agreed to follow his father-in-law's instructions.
Later, Su Muyang received further news that a servant, Jin Bao, had confessed to poisoning the Emperor under Su Muli's orders, detailing the precise times and dosages. Su Muyang mused that Su Muli's intricate plot to first kill him and then usurp the throne after their father's death had ultimately backfired on himself. With the allegiances of "half the court officials" now in his hands, Su Muyang declared himself the "hunter" and the remaining factions the "prey." He began consolidating his power, offering alliances and wealth to those who pledged loyalty, and ruthlessly executing officials, such as Lord Zhang, who remained loyal to the deceased Su Muli.
Episode 26 Recap
Su Muyang, having secretly gained control over the former Crown Prince's associates and the Emperor's palace staff, arrived at the imperial chambers. The Emperor, feeling ill and calling for servants, struggled for water. Su Muyang greeted his father, wishing him good health, then somberly remarked that today was Su Muli's burial day. Su Muyang was very proud.
He added that it was a pity the Emperor couldn't see Su Muli off on his final journey, especially since Su Muli was his most beloved son. The Emperor, however, still questioned why Su Muli was killed in Lucheng, refusing to believe Su Muyang's public declaration that the man in black was responsible. He reasoned that a mere jianghu rogue would not dare to murder Prince Li.
Su Muyang, feigning concern, urged his father not to be angry and to protect his health. He explained that all palace staff were occupied with Su Muli's funeral, and he had sent the Emperor's personal attendants away, offering to personally serve the Emperor his medicine. As Su Muyang poured the medicine, the Emperor noticed his right hand was perfectly intact, much to his shock.
He confronted Su Muyang, accusing him of being involved in Su Muli's death, given their long-standing animosity. Su Muyang grew furious, his years of devoted service and humiliation seemingly meaningless in his father's eyes, who only cared for Su Muli. He bitterly questioned if the Emperor believed that he, Su Muyang, was the one who should have died in Lucheng. Su Muyang then recounted his painful past, how his mother, of humble birth and never favored, died young.
As a prince, he had to tread carefully, even the lowest eunuchs disrespecting him. Then, suddenly, the Emperor called him to serve at his side and even named him Crown Prince. Su Muyang revealed he was overjoyed then, believing his father finally acknowledged their bond and sought to compensate him. However, he now understood the truth: he was merely a pawn, destined to be sacrificed on a fated day, his life exchanged for the Emperor's eternal reign.
The Emperor, realizing Su Muyang knew the truth, was stunned. Su Muyang recalled an incident when he fell into the water, was rescued, and suffered a high fever. The Emperor stayed by his side all night, holding his hand and comforting him. But now, Su Muyang wondered if the Emperor's fear was of losing his own flesh and blood, or merely losing the person destined to face calamity for him.
Suddenly, the Emperor was gripped by severe abdominal pain, coughing up blood. As he lay dying, Su Muyang revealed the final truth: the daily elixir the Emperor had been consuming had been secretly laced with a slow-acting poison by Su Muli, destined to take the Emperor's life after Su Muyang's own predicted demise. With this revelation, the Emperor succumbed to the poison and died. Su Muyang then legitimately ascended the throne.
Meanwhile, at Wuling Mountain, Mo Yin and his companions found themselves unable to remove the Jade Linglong from Jin'an. Jin'an was disheartened, struggling with the pain and the uncertainty. Mo Yin offered him a bowl of porridge, explaining that he had added blood ginseng to help sustain Jin'an's vital energy, as he wouldn't last long otherwise. Jin'an anxiously questioned Mo Yin's confidence, wondering why the Jade Linglong remained unremoved.
Mo Yin explained that they were trying to purify Jin'an's blood, as they first needed to sever the blood pact between him and Li Shuang. If the blood pact remained, the Jade Linglong would continue to take root, eventually becoming impossible to remove. This was why Mo Yin had previously mentioned that removing the Jade Linglong would cause Jin'an to forget Li Shuang. Jin'an reflected on the prospect of forgetting, wondering if it even mattered.
Mo Yin gently advised him that all attachments in this world stem from fate, and if he and Li Shuang were destined, they would surely meet again. He returned a hairpin to Jin'an, which he had found near the quicksand. Mo Yin believed Li Shuang, thinking she was certainly going to die, had left it as a keepsake for Jin'an.
He hoped that cherishing this memento would give Jin'an the strength to live on, as only by living could they possibly meet again. Fearing he might lose control again and harm innocent people, Jin'an had locked himself away. He began carving his memories of Li Shuang onto the walls, hoping to preserve their shared past.
Mo Yin had warned him that the more the Jade Linglong merged with him, the more it would consume his will, eventually turning him into an emotionless killing machine that might even harm or kill Li Shuang. Jin'an understood that this was why Mo Yin had said he would forget Li Shuang. Recalling a time when Li Shuang had cared for him when he was sick, Jin'an felt a reversal of roles, now needing her care.
He remembered an occasion where Li Shuang gave him a mask, thinking he liked the man in black, and suggested they make that day their shared birthday, referencing the saying, "We may not have been born on the same day, but we wish to die on the same day." She wished they could be "born together and die together, year after year, for an eternity."
Jin'an, deeply attached to these memories, wondered if all their past promises would become meaningless once the Jade Linglong was removed and he lost his memories. He vowed that even if he lost his memory, Li Shuang would help him remember her again. Li Shuang, too, had expressed her unwavering commitment to him, promising to find him no matter the distance if he ever forgot her. After days of unconsciousness, Li Shuang finally awoke, immediately calling out for Jin'an.
Lu Xin, who had been anxiously caring for her, informed her that it had been several days and Jin'an had been taken by Mo Yin, his fate uncertain. Li Shuang insisted on going to save him, but Lu Xin reminded her of her unhealed injuries. Just then, Huai'en arrived to deliver an imperial edict.
He congratulated Li Shuang on her recovery and informed her that while she was unconscious, the late Emperor had fallen ill, and the current Emperor had to rush back to the capital. He announced that His Majesty, Su Muyang, had now ascended to the throne and ordered her immediate return to the capital once she was fully recovered.
Li Shuang was greatly alarmed, repeatedly stating she had urgent matters and could not return to the capital right away, asking Huai'en to convey her message. Huai'en, however, stressed that Su Muyang, as the new Emperor, valued her greatly for saving his life but his word was law. He warned her that disobeying an imperial decree, especially as a frontier general, constituted treason punishable by implicating her entire clan.
He further added that if she sought to pursue Jin'an, the fugitive accused of assassinating Prince Li, she needn't do so personally, as his fate would be decided by imperial decree upon her return to the capital. Huai'en then instructed Lu Xin to take good care of Li Shuang, assuring them he would make arrangements for their prompt departure to the capital.
Lu Xin expressed her dismay at Su Muyang's actions, calling it a betrayal after Li Shuang and Jin'an had shown him kindness, yet he was now threatening Li Shuang. She offered to go to Wuling Mountain in Li Shuang's stead, but Li Shuang initially refused, deeming it too dangerous given Mo Yin's unpredictable nature and the unknown intentions of Wuling Mountain.
Lu Xin, however, argued that Wuling Mountain's inhabitants were mostly dedicated to medicine and unlikely to be malicious, though she admitted human nature was indeed unpredictable. She insisted on going, eager to settle scores with the "damn Mo Yin" who had fooled her, and to alleviate Li Shuang's worries about Jin'an. Li Shuang, though hesitant, eventually agreed. She gave Lu Xin a Qianji Needle for self-defense, explaining how to use its poisonous darts, and instructed her to be careful.
Li Shuang promised to arrange everything on her end and then go to Wuling Mountain to assist Lu Xin. Meanwhile, Mo Yin continued to grapple with the challenge of removing the Jade Linglong, unable to pinpoint the exact problem and worrying about Jin'an's deteriorating condition. He knew he had to find another method. Lu Xin, after a long journey, arrived at Wuling Mountain but was stopped by two guards.
She claimed to have an urgent matter for their master, but they stated the master was in seclusion and not seeing anyone, dismissing her as someone seeking medicine. Lu Xin insisted it wasn't about medicine, but rather a matter concerning Wuling Mountain itself, which could be disastrous if delayed. When the guards remained firm, she resorted to shouting for Mo Yin to come out, accusing him of avoiding her.
The guards reiterated that Wuling Mountain was secluded, warning her not to cause trouble. Lu Xin then shocked them by claiming she was pregnant with Mo Yin's child from Lucheng, challenging their notion of seclusion. Skeptical, the guards asked for proof. Lu Xin dramatically produced a Clear Moon Pearl, stating it was the last keepsake Mo Yin had given her.
She also feigned morning sickness, further convincing the guards, who were now flustered and quickly reported the situation to Mo Yin. Mo Yin, disturbed by the news of a woman from Lucheng carrying his Clear Moon Pearl, allowed her to enter. Lu Xin immediately confronted him, accusing him of hypocrisy. She recalled Li Shuang's courteous treatment of him at the General's Residence, contrasting it with his act of separating Li Shuang and Jin'an and gravely injuring them.
She declared she had been blind to his true nature. Mo Yin acknowledged that Li Shuang must have explained the situation and claimed his actions were out of necessity. Lu Xin, however, dismissed his words as "fake righteousness" and demanded to see Jin'an. Mo Yin refused, stating Jin'an was too weak to receive visitors and reiterated that Wuling Mountain's affairs were not for her to question, ordering her to leave.
Lu Xin defiantly declared that she had promised Li Shuang to protect Jin'an, and if she didn't see him well, she would haunt Mo Yin as a vengeful ghost, even if she died here. Mo Yin, dismissing her threats and "little tricks," pointed out that she wasn't truly afraid, citing his rescue of her by the river as proof that he wouldn't let her die. Lu Xin then saw Jin'an, who was badly injured.
Jin'an, though weak, immediately asked about Li Shuang. Lu Xin assured him Li Shuang was fine. Mo Yin began to administer acupuncture to Jin'an, whose inner breath was chaotic and pulse extremely weak, a state that would have killed an ordinary person. Lu Xin questioned Mo Yin's rashness, asking what he had done to Jin'an. Mo Yin explained that removing the Jade Linglong was inherently difficult, and Jin'an was aware of the risks.
He then urged Lu Xin to leave and report Jin'an's safety to Li Shuang. Unwilling to leave Jin'an in such a dire state, Lu Xin refused, reminding Mo Yin of his superior medical skills, which even allowed him to cure Su Muyang's poison. She insisted she would not leave until Jin'an recovered. When Mo Yin called for guards to escort her out, Lu Xin, once again, revealed her trump card: she announced she was pregnant with his twins.
Mo Yin, indignant, accused her of ruining his reputation. Lu Xin, undeterred, threatened to spread his "romantic escapades" throughout Wuling Mountain if he didn't let her stay and supervise Jin'an's treatment. Elsewhere, Jin Wujian came to the Empress Dowager to beg for medicine. She immediately accused him of seeking drugs again and ordered him to commit suicide. When he hesitated, she taunted him for being useless, claiming he couldn't even manage to die.
She ridiculed his past failures and his present inability to bring her the promised shadow puppet. Declaring him a "waste" who was wasting resources, she decided to mercifully end his miserable existence. Jin Wujian, enduring her constant insults, finally reached his breaking point when she lunged at him, trying to strangle him. He fought back, questioning if his years of loyalty meant nothing.
The Empress Dowager retorted, asking if he was loyal to her or to the Brain-Devouring Powder, asserting that many desired her loyalty, but a "worthless person" like him never deserved to serve by her side. Jin Wujian, enraged, scoffed at her words, reminding her that he had diligently fulfilled every one of her commands for years. He questioned if she would be where she was today without him.
He then bitterly spoke of sacrificing his dignity, future, and everything human just to be by her side, wondering why she couldn't grant him this one small request. The Empress Dowager arrogantly claimed her success was due to her own schemes and efforts, ascending to power with her son, Yu, and that everything she had was deserved.
Jin Wujian then hit a raw nerve, reminding her that Duan Aoze had despised her, and if not for his creation of the Love-Binding Curse, she would never have conceived a royal child. She vehemently denied owing him anything, claiming it was she who saved his "dog life" when he betrayed his teacher and ancestors, allowing him to cling to existence. She furiously ordered him to shut up, then challenged him to kill her.
Jin Wujian, however, could not bring himself to harm her. She cynically observed that she knew he couldn't do it, then asked him if he would have treated her differently if he had met her earlier. Ultimately, she dismissed him as "pathetic." As he left, Jin Wujian declared that he would soon return, bringing the head of Duan Aodeng to her, echoing her dismissive "pathetic" remark.
Episode 27 Recap
Before Jin Wujian became the Empress Dowager’s instrument, he was discovered by his master attempting to practice forbidden techniques. Mo Yin intervened, pleading with their godfather, stating that Jin Wujian had only made a minor error and had already suffered enough. Despite Mo Yin’s plea, their master, also referred to as Godfather, stripped Jin Wujian of his martial power, banished him from Wuling Mountain, and left him to fend for himself.
Desperate, Jin Wujian sought refuge with the Empress Dowager, reminding her that he had practiced forbidden techniques for her. The Empress Dowager agreed to save his life, but only if he could now cast the Love-Binding Curse for her, to which Jin Wujian agreed. She then fed him the Brain-Devouring Powder, declaring that for the rest of his life, he would be her mere "lapdog" to slowly savor the poison.
Later, as the Brain-Devouring Powder began to take effect, exacerbated by new injuries compounding his existing severe wounds, Jin Wujian refused to ask the Empress Dowager for the antidote, instead instructing his subordinate to monitor Li Shuang, who had returned to the capital, and report any unusual activities. The Empress Dowager's manipulation extended to Duan Aoze, on whom she used Jin Wujian to cast the Love-Binding Curse.
She bore Duan Aoze a son, claiming the child already bore a striking resemblance to him and suggesting their happiness would surpass that of Duan Aoze and her own sister. Duan Aoze, however, remained fixated on his former love, Rong, a name that infuriated the Empress Dowager. She lashed out, demanding to know why he couldn't forget the "heinous woman," asserting her superiority in beauty and intellect over her sister, yet still being ignored.
In a fit of rage, she confessed to Duan Aoze that she was the one who set the fire in her sister’s palace, burning her alive. She continued to torment Duan Aoze, reminding him that she had saved his life by drinking the Double-Blossom Wine and binding their fates together. She vowed to make him suffer until he fell utterly in love with her.
Furthermore, she threatened that Duan Aoze’s brother, Duan Aodeng, would also soon die by her hand, ensuring he would have no one left to rely on but her, because everyone around him must die. Li Shuang was summoned to the imperial palace to meet the newly enthroned Emperor Su Muyang. Su Muyang, recalling a time when Li Shuang risked her life for him, believed she still harbored feelings for him.
He declared that unlike his past as a powerless Crown Prince who couldn't protect his beloved, he now wielded supreme power and wanted her to marry him and become his queen, promising they wouldn't miss each other again. Li Shuang, however, rejected his advances, stating her commitment was to the country and that she only had the loyalty of a humble servant towards him. She pleaded with him to allow her to leave the capital to find Jin'an.
She explained that Jin'an had gone through many hardships with her over the past year and was now abducted and in grave danger, adding that she could not abandon him. Su Muyang callously suggested Jin'an might already be dead, to which Li Shuang retorted that his remarks were too cruel. He reminded her of Jin'an's own words about royals knowing no mercy, effectively turning Jin'an’s advice against her.
Su Muyang questioned her devotion to the country if she was willing to desert her post for a man, especially one he accused of killing Prince Su Muli. Li Shuang vehemently denied Jin'an's guilt, which Su Muyang took as an accusation of fabricating facts. Li Shuang insisted that the truth no longer mattered to the Emperor, but saving Jin'an was her unwavering resolve.
She declared her intention to go alone, emphasizing that her actions were personal and irrelevant to the Li family or the Changfeng Army. Su Muyang, however, refused to grant her permission unless she agreed to two conditions: to relinquish command of the Changfeng Army and enter the palace as a royal consort once her task was completed. After a moment of painful consideration, Li Shuang accepted, acknowledging the immense sacrifice she was making for Jin'an.
Su Muyang commented on her willingness to give her all for Jin'an, expressing a hope that she wouldn’t regret her decision. Li Shuang then formally thanked him. Upon learning of the palace's decree, Li Wei confronted Li Shuang, asking if she was truly in love with Jin'an, to which she tearfully admitted yes. Li Shuang tried to explain that her journey to Wuling Mountain was solely to save Jin'an and not for personal gain that would compromise the greater good.
However, Li Wei sternly told her that if she left, she was forbidden to return. He declared that from that day forward, she was to be removed from the family records, her name stripped of the "Li" surname, and her fate and actions would no longer concern him.
Li Shuang protested, but Li Wei explained that if she were to elope and defy imperial decrees, she alone would bear the consequences, ensuring the Li family and the Changfeng Army would not suffer collateral damage. Li Shuang then understood her father’s true intent: that for years she had shouldered the family's honor and the welfare of Taijin's people and the Changfeng Army, and now it was time for her to pursue her own desires.
She pledged that even if he disowned her, she would never betray the Li family, asserting that she would resign her post and live in seclusion if it meant protecting her clan. Li Wei emphasized his fatherly love for her and his desire for her to be free to choose her path. Li Shuang then formally bid farewell to her father, making three wishes for his health, prosperity, and for the Changfeng Army and the nation, before departing.
Outside the capital, Ji Ran and other Changfeng soldiers intercepted Li Shuang. They offered to accompany her, understanding the dangers ahead. Li Shuang initially tried to dissuade them, asserting that her mission was personal and not related to the Changfeng Army since she was no longer their general. However, Ji Ran reminded her that Jin'an (the man in black) had saved their lives during the battle against the Yao State, making it a matter that concerned them all.
Inspired by their loyalty, Li Shuang accepted their offer. With her loyal soldiers by her side, she commanded them to head to Wuling Mountain immediately. Meanwhile, Jin Wujian, having received news of Li Shuang’s departure, also gathered his forces to return to Wuling Mountain despite the worsening effects of the Brain-Devouring Powder. At Wuling Mountain, Mo Yin and his disciples were struggling to extract Jade Linglong from Jin'an.
Despite progress, one subordinate urged Mo Yin, the Mountain Master, to stop, fearing Jin'an’s death. Another, Elder Tong, pressed on, prioritizing the retrieval of the holy treasure and dismissing the sacrifice of a "half-dead shadow puppet" as insignificant. Mo Yin ultimately took control, ordering Elder Tong to be taken out and realizing the shadow puppet was out of control, he quickly evacuated others from the stone chamber.
Shortly after, a subordinate informed Mo Yin that armed soldiers, led by a woman in red armor, were marching up the mountain to see him. Mo Yin, understanding the urgency, remarked that she had arrived just in time. Li Shuang, the woman in red armor, had planned to force Mo Yin's appearance by threatening to burn down Wuling Mountain, knowing the mountain dwellers would not allow their home to be destroyed.
As her archers prepared, Mo Yin appeared, urging her to stop the "strife" as Jin'an's life was in peril. Li Shuang retorted that she assumed he would be indifferent, but Mo Yin quickly invited her up the mountain to see Jin'an. Mo Yin warned Li Shuang to brace herself for what she would witness. Upon seeing Jin'an, who was now deranged and restrained, Li Shuang was heartbroken and desperately tried to enter his chamber.
Mo Yin explained that Jin'an's blood pact had been largely erased, and Jade Linglong no longer recognized him, causing him to lose his senses. When Li Shuang finally made her way inside, Jin'an, under the influence of Jade Linglong, attacked and choked her. Mo Yin, from outside, cried out, revealing Jade Linglong’s sole weakness: the Lingxu acupoint. Striking it would destroy Jade Linglong, but also kill Jin'an. Li Shuang refused to harm him.
She tearfully recounted their shared memories—finding him in the forest, watching cherry blossoms and starry skies, and how he had become an indispensable part of her life. As her tears streamed, Jin'an's consciousness seemed to briefly return, but Jade Linglong quickly tried to regain control. Without hesitation, Li Shuang cut her arm and fed her blood to Jin'an, which gradually stabilized the Jade Linglong.
Later, Lu Xin confronted Mo Yin, questioning why the blood pact had reactivated and if he intended to separate Jin'an and Li Shuang again. She criticized his earlier "blood cleansing" method that had caused Jin'an so much suffering, arguing that it only led to their current predicament. Lu Xin passionately asserted that Jin'an and Li Shuang shared not just a blood pact, but deep commitment and love, willing to die for each other.
She accused Mo Yin, a "dull boy feeding on vegetables and pounding herbs," of being ignorant of true love. Mo Yin, reflecting on her words, seemed to ponder the nature of worldly love. Lu Xin explained that love was simple: sharing meals and beautiful sights, desiring to share both joys and sorrows, and being ready to sacrifice one’s life for the beloved.
Her words seemed to resonate with Mo Yin as she described how the urge to share a beautiful sunset with someone marks "the origin of love and the source of affection." As Li Shuang watched over Jin'an, she found his drawings on the chamber walls, depicting cherished moments from their past, and was moved to tears. Jin'an eventually awoke, relieved to see Li Shuang safe. He apologized for being late, expressing only joy and relief that she was unharmed. Lu Xin, still present, wondered aloud about Jin'an's identity before he became a shadow puppet, empathizing with the pain his family and friends would feel witnessing his suffering.
Episode 28 Recap
After Jin'an regained his senses, he was immediately concerned he might have lost control and harmed Li Shuang during his erratic state, but she reassured him he hadn't. Despite their reunion, Jin'an insisted Li Shuang could not stay with him, reasoning that he would forget her once the Jade Linglong was removed anyway, making it better to end everything now.
Li Shuang challenged him, asking if he had considered how difficult it would be for her to forget him or let go of their shared past. She pointed out the murals he had carved, which depicted their past together, as proof that he too could not forget. Jin'an, however, was steadfast in his concern, fearing he might harm or even kill her if he lost control again.
In a powerful gesture, Li Shuang bit his shoulder fiercely, telling him to remember the pain. She declared that even after the Jade Linglong was removed and their blood contract ceased to exist, this mark would be their new, enduring bond. Li Shuang then urged Jin'an to cherish every remaining moment, reaffirming her lifelong love and commitment to always stay by his side. Li Shuang and Jin'an then formalized their union in a ceremony on Wuling Mountain.
Li Shuang vowed before heaven and earth to marry Jin'an, promising unwavering faith until death. Jin'an, in turn, pledged to marry Li Shuang, to be of one heart and mind, and never to fail her. Later, Jin'an woke to find Li Shuang preparing breakfast for him. She explained she was simply trying to mimic the customs of ordinary wives, despite admitting she was not skilled in cooking.
Jin'an playfully suggested he could handle all the cooking, as Li Shuang was usually busy. He then expressed how tranquil and beautiful Wuling Mountain was, suggesting they could settle there. Li Shuang seemed thoughtful, and Jin'an clarified that they could first explore the world after the Jade Linglong was removed, finding their own secluded paradise.
He acknowledged her responsibilities to the Li family and the Changfeng Army, offering to return to Lucheng if she preferred, as it held many of their memories. Li Shuang lovingly responded that wherever Jin'an was, whether in a secluded paradise or a bustling city, was where she belonged.
Meanwhile, Lu Xin, eager to assist at the clinic, was gently advised by a junior sister to refrain from overexertion due to her pregnancy, as the medicinal herbs could be harmful to her baby. Mo Yin, overhearing this, became furious, pulling Lu Xin aside to demand how many people she had told, fearing his reputation would be ruined.
Lu Xin, surprised by his reaction, explained she had only mentioned it once upon their arrival, finding it amusing that the people of Wuling Mountain were even more prone to gossip than she was. Lu Xin again approached Mo Yin, hoping to learn the medical arts of Wuling Mountain. Mo Yin was initially reluctant, stating that their secret methods were never taught to outsiders. Lu Xin persisted, offering to become his disciple, reasoning that shared knowledge could help more people.
Mo Yin then laid out the strict conditions for discipleship: either one was destined, or they had to offer their most cherished possession to fully dedicate themselves to their studies. After some deliberation, Lu Xin offered him a pearl, which Mo Yin had previously given her. She asserted it was her most treasured item, as it represented wealth in the outside world. Mo Yin dismissed her explanation as shallow, declaring her incompatible with Wuling Mountain.
At that moment, a dan furnace exploded. Mo Yin quickly shielded Lu Xin, protecting her from the blast. Upon discovering an acupoint-sealing needle amidst the wreckage, Mo Yin realized the explosion was a diversion, indicating Jin'an was in grave danger. He quickly instructed Lu Xin to tend to the injured and rushed off. Jin Wujian confronted Li Shuang and Jin'an, mocking Jin'an's nature as a shadow puppet. Li Shuang and Jin'an were unable to resist Jin Wujian.
Jin Wujian boastfully revealed he had consumed Kongqing Water and believed himself invincible. He angrily blamed Wuling Mountain for his past, swearing to make them all pay. Mo Yin soon arrived and immediately recognized Jin Wujian, his sworn brother. Mo Yin denounced Jin Wujian for patricide, betrayal, and harming the innocent, declaring his intention to eliminate him as the Master of Wuling Mountain. However, Mo Yin quickly realized Jin Wujian was suffering from the effects of Brain-Devouring Powder.
Jin Wujian, consumed by hatred, vowed to kill everyone on Wuling Mountain. He then forcibly extracted the Jade Linglong from Jin'an, revealing to a shocked Mo Yin that the supposed sacred relic was in fact an evil artifact. Jin Wujian claimed that only his forbidden techniques allowed its removal, viewing it as deserved retribution for the unfair treatment he had received. Mo Yin was severely injured during the confrontation.
As Jin Wujian declared his intent to kill everyone, Lu Xin rushed onto the scene. Seeing Mo Yin injured and Li Shuang and Jin'an unconscious, she swiftly used the Qianji Needle, fatally striking Jin Wujian. Mo Yin attempted to save Jin Wujian by suppressing the poison, but Jin Wujian, knowing it was too late, begged Mo Yin to end his suffering, which Mo Yin did. Mo Yin then retrieved the Jade Linglong and felt he had finally avenged his godfather.
He tried to console a distraught Lu Xin, explaining that in Wuling Mountain, the dead return to nature, especially after justice is served, and that Jin Wujian's evil deeds led to his deserved demise. Lu Xin, however, tearfully responded that unlike the people of the martial world, she valued every life.
She confessed that after losing her family and clinic, she believed she had nothing left to lose, but witnessing her friends in peril, she realized they were her most cherished possession, and she would sacrifice anything to protect them. Li Shuang later woke to find Jin'an by her side, feeling relieved they were both alive and that nothing could separate them now.
Jin'an described their recent experiences as a long, strange dream that was thankfully over, with Li Shuang still by his side. He expressed concern about losing his martial power without the Jade Linglong and wondered if she would be disappointed in him. Li Shuang playfully reminded him that she, a general, hardly needed protection, and that he was the fragile one when they first met.
Jin'an, embracing their domestic fantasy, then suggested they return to Lucheng, build a house, and live a simple life, humorously assigning all the farming and chores to Li Shuang, while he would take on the cooking. Li Shuang, teasing him about his questionable cooking skills, playfully accused him of taking advantage of her.
Jin'an then pulled out a hairpin, stating that it had fallen from him that day and he didn't know when he had started carrying it, but he thought it looked lovely on her. As he placed it in her hair, Li Shuang felt a pang of sadness, realizing Jin'an was beginning to forget their past. She later confided in Lu Xin that Mo Yin had confirmed Jin'an would gradually lose his memories, though his physical strength would recover.
Lu Xin worried about Li Shuang's future, knowing Jin'an would forget their entire shared history. Li Shuang, however, found solace in the idea that forgetting might not be entirely bad, as it allowed them to cherish their remaining moments of peace before he completely forgot her. Lu Xin then pressed Li Shuang about her agreement with Su Muyang, fearing he had made exorbitant demands or threatened the Li family, and that Li Shuang had sacrificed her entire future.
Li Shuang confirmed she had made a sacrifice, believing it was worth it for Jin'an to have a happy, new life free from suffering and pain. Lu Xin was heartbroken, arguing that Jin'an would rather die a thousand times than accept her sacrifice. Despite the looming threat of memory loss, Jin'an presented Li Shuang with a blooming flower he had found and nurtured on the mountain, seeing it as a symbol of their new beginning.
He proposed planting it in their courtyard and acknowledged that while he might forget many things without the Jade Linglong, they still had ample time to create new memories together. He suggested that for every new experience they shared, they could plant another flower, eventually filling the landscape with their memories. Li Shuang, touched, agreed, expressing her desire to cherish every present moment and live each day to the fullest, given the many trials they had faced.
Episode 29 Recap
Lu Xin asked Mo Yin why he had intervened that day when Li Shuang and Jin'an faced death. Mo Yin confessed he had never considered love, but witnessing their selfless devotion moved him deeply, making him realize that perhaps enabling lovers was a form of healing. Lu Xin, adjusting Mo Yin’s hair tie, thanked him for saving Li Shuang and Jin'an and for helping her understand her own heart.
She admitted she couldn't abandon her friends, which meant she likely wouldn't be able to join Wuling Mountain. Mo Yin was surprised to hear he was included in her definition of a friend. He then informed her that everyone would soon be returning to Lucheng, and they might only meet again if fate allowed. Meanwhile, in the capital, Emperor Su Muyang, concerned Li Shuang might not return, ordered an elite unit of Imperial Guards to surround Wuling Mountain.
He instructed them to bring Li Shuang back no matter what, and to account for Jin'an, dead or alive, as he was deeply entangled in past affairs. Su Muyang justified his actions by asserting that self-interest was human nature and that even the most loyal would compromise under threat. He vowed not to let go of what he believed belonged to him.
As Li Shuang, Jin'an, and Lu Xin prepared to descend Wuling Mountain, Mo Yin did not appear in person. Instead, he sent a subordinate to deliver healing medicine, advising them to rest and take it regularly. Jin'an expressed skepticism about Mo Yin’s medicine, referencing his past magical antics. Before leaving, Lu Xin emphatically clarified to Mo Yin's subordinate that there was no romantic involvement between her and Mo Yin, and she was not pregnant, urging them to stop spreading rumors.
She returned a bead, telling Mo Yin he and she were now even. Shortly after, Mo Yin's subordinate reported Lu Xin's words, leaving Mo Yin visibly disheartened. However, Lu Xin then reappeared, startling him. She revealed she had only accompanied Li Shuang and Jin'an part of the way down the mountain.
She declared her decision to stay on Wuling Mountain to study medicine and help those in need, refusing to return to Lucheng to witness Li Shuang and Jin'an's affections while she remained alone. As Li Shuang and Jin'an continued their descent, Li Shuang, understanding Lu Xin’s newfound joy and freedom on the mountain, wished her well, urging her to write regardless of where they were, as their hearts would always be connected.
Lu Xin then admonished Jin'an to treat Li Shuang well, threatening to make him pay if he ever hurt her. Returning to Mo Yin, Lu Xin playfully accused him of being heartless for not seeing them off. Mo Yin, after playfully chiding her for her audacity, handed back the bead, stating he never takes back what he gives. He then gave her a mock test about becoming his disciple, which she eagerly accepted.
Li Shuang, later reflecting on this, felt a sense of relief, confident that Lu Xin would be safe with Mo Yin, despite his eccentricities. After descending the mountain, Li Shuang and Jin'an discovered that Ji Ran and the other Changfeng Army soldiers had disappeared. Jin'an immediately recognized this as a sign that they wouldn't abandon their post without orders.
Soon, Su Muyang's guards appeared, stating they were there to escort Li Shuang and Jin'an back to the capital because the Emperor missed them. Jin'an prepared to fight, but the guard revealed they had abducted the Changfeng Army soldiers, as well as Li Shuang’s father, Li Wei, and brother, Li Ting, as leverage. Faced with such a threat, Li Shuang and Jin'an reluctantly agreed to return.
Upon their return to the capital, Su Muyang's subordinate confirmed that Li Shuang had complied due to her family's safety. He also reported that Jin'an’s extraordinary strength, derived from a sacred relic of Wuling Mountain, was now gone. Su Muyang expressed a dismissive pity for the once brave "man in black," now a mere mortal.
He then informed his aide that the Yao State intended to seek peace, but he suspected their true motive was to probe Taijin's vulnerabilities during the imperial transition. He ordered a banquet to entertain the Yao envoy, instructing Li Shuang and Jin'an to attend, citing Li Shuang's border experience and Jin'an's past heroics against the Yao State as reasons to honor them.
At the banquet in Xianyang Palace, Bai Kun, the Yao State envoy, congratulated Su Muyang on his ascension but refused to kneel, claiming to be there for peace, not submission. A Taijin official questioned his sincerity, but Li Shuang diplomatically intervened, affirming Taijin's desire for peace and mentioning the Changfeng Army's long-standing dedication to it. Su Muyang then offered a modest welcome banquet due to the period of national mourning.
Bai Kun then provoked Li Shuang, questioning Taijin's reliance on a woman for defense. Li Shuang sharply retorted that Taijin employed people regardless of gender, and that despite his nation's "elite generals," they had all been defeated by her. Bai Kun then presented the Yao State's conditions for peace: the return of captured Yao soldiers and the disbandment of the Changfeng Army, in exchange for ceding the cities of Qingchuan and Helan.
Su Muyang, secretly pleased by the prospect of disbanding the Changfeng Army, which would clear the path for Li Shuang to become his consort, asked Li Shuang for her opinion. Li Shuang argued against disbanding such a vital defense force. Su Muyang, however, implied that it was time for Li Shuang to lay down her armor and marry. He suggested they could host Bai Kun together as old friends if he visited Taijin again. Li Shuang reluctantly agreed.
Su Muyang then declared he would keep the maps of Qingchuan and Helan, while other conditions would be discussed later. Bai Kun accused Su Muyang of greed and going back on his word, threatening renewed warfare. At this critical moment, Jin'an rose and met Bai Kun's gaze, startling the envoy who recognized him as the long-missing Prince Annan.
Jin'an calmed the situation, explaining that the Emperor was merely testing their sincerity, and pleaded with Su Muyang to consider the people's desire for peace. He proposed releasing half the captives in exchange for the two cities, but maintained that the Changfeng Army could not be disbanded. Bai Kun found this counter-offer greedy, but Su Muyang asserted Taijin's dominant position, declaring he would have whatever he desired as the ruler of the world.
As Jin'an prepared to ask for Li Shuang’s hand in marriage, he stepped forward to speak. Su Muyang, however, preempted him. While acknowledging Jin'an’s past services and offering a reward, Su Muyang announced that Jin'an would have to wait for his own marriage because Su Muyang had already arranged for Li Shuang, the Changfeng Army commander and General of the North, to resign her military post and enter the palace as his consort.
Later, walking back, Li Shuang worried that Jin'an was upset, but he assured her he understood her sacrifices. He held her close, explaining that if he didn't understand her now, he couldn't claim to love her. He was only angry that she had to bear her pain alone for so long, and promised to face all challenges with her, reiterating that she was his wife for life. Li Shuang, touched, cried on his shoulder.
Jin'an playfully complained about her tears, to which Li Shuang retorted that he was too fussy for a lifetime partner. Jin'an, however, insisted on tidiness before meeting her father, Li Wei. Li Shuang teased that without proper parental consent or a matchmaker, Li Wei wasn't officially his father-in-law yet. Jin'an confidently declared that with his charm, Li Wei wouldn’t refuse him. Upon arriving at the Li residence, Li Shuang apologized to Li Wei for her disobedience.
Li Wei simply expressed relief that she was safe. Li Shuang then introduced Jin'an to her father, who then respectfully greeted Li Wei. Just then, Li Ting, Li Shuang's brother, rushed in, overjoyed to see her but mistaking Jin'an for a former pest from Lucheng. Jin'an explained he had suffered an accident and forgotten much of his past, including Li Ting. Li Ting accused Li Shuang of favoring Jin'an, but Li Shuang defended Jin'an, explaining his recent injury.
She then asked a servant to prepare a room for Jin'an. Later, Jin'an confided in Li Shuang about his distress over his fading memories. Li Shuang reassured him, reminding him of his earlier words about not dwelling on the past and creating new memories, as they had a long journey ahead. Separately, Ji Tianjiao, Su Muyang's Consort Li and the Prime Minister's daughter, stormed into the palace at night after hearing Su Muyang's intentions regarding Li Shuang.
Su Muyang tried to feign affection, but Ji Tianjiao confronted him about delaying her coronation and planning to make Li Shuang empress. She reminded him that his position was due to her father's support. At that moment, Ji Tianjiao's father, the Prime Minister, appeared, confirming he was the source of the information. He sent his daughter away to rest, then confronted Su Muyang directly.
The Prime Minister reminded Su Muyang of his role in placing him on the throne and subtly threatened to remove him. He also demanded that Su Muyang dismiss an impeachment case against Jia Shihong, the governor of Jiuqing County, who was related to the Prime Minister's family.
Su Muyang feigned powerlessness, calling Jia Shihong a corrupt official, but the Prime Minister asserted that the impeachment was a political attack by former rivals aiming to weaken Su Muyang's power by cutting ties with his powerful ally. He reminded Su Muyang of his desperate pleas for support to secure the throne, warning him against being ungrateful over a "minor" corruption case.
He concluded by stating that if he had the power to put Su Muyang on the throne, he also had the power to remove him, and reiterated that Ji Tianjiao would be empress as long as Su Muyang reigned. Su Muyang, feigning respect, promised to heed his guidance, while secretly harboring murderous thoughts. The next morning, Jin'an arrived to meet Li Wei, who greeted him formally.
Jin'an humbly stated his relationship with Li Shuang, their mutual love, and formally requested Li Shuang’s hand in marriage, seeking Li Wei’s blessing. Li Wei tested Jin'an's resolve, questioning how he would protect Li Shuang now that he had lost his supernatural strength, especially with Su Muyang's intentions.
Jin'an firmly replied that he would protect her with his life, and planned to take Li Shuang away from the capital as soon as possible, believing Su Muyang would not dare harm Li Wei due to his fear of the Changfeng Army. When Li Wei asked what if Li Shuang refused to leave, Jin'an confidently stated he would find a way to convince her if Li Wei didn't stand in their way. Li Wei pressed further, asking what if he "did" stand in their way, to which Jin'an replied, "Then I'll keep pestering you until you don't."
Episode 30 Recap
Jin'an assured Li Wei he would take Li Shuang away from Yunjing as soon as possible, believing Su Muyang, fearing the Changfeng Army's power, would not dare move against the General. When Li Wei asked what if Li Shuang refused, Jin'an confidently stated he would find a way, as long as Li Wei did not stop him. If Li Wei did try to stop him, Jin'an declared he would stick around until Li Wei relented.
Li Wei was deeply relieved, stating that only someone with Jin'an's character could truly protect Li Shuang. He understood Li Shuang's insistence on returning to the capital stemmed from her desire not to implicate the Li family and the Changfeng Army, as she felt she owed him her life. Li Wei noted that the values of loyalty, filial piety, propriety, and righteousness, which had shaped her, were also on the verge of destroying her.
He concluded that only Jin'an could break these deadly constraints and set her free. Jin'an vowed not to disappoint the General. Li Wei then presented Jin'an with his Roaming Dragon Sword, a loyal companion for years, as a wedding gift for his future marriage to Li Shuang. He entrusted Jin'an with Li Shuang's safety.
If Li Shuang remained stubborn and refused to leave, Jin'an was to show her the sword and tell her that as Li Wei's daughter, entering the palace would only make her a hostage, a pawn for the Emperor to control or purge Li Wei. Only by escaping far away could Li Wei be free of worry. Jin'an understood and again promised not to fail him. Soon after, a family member presented a cleaned military flag to Li Wei.
Li Wei identified it as the Black Armor Army's flag, belonging to Prince Annan Duan Aodeng of Yao State. He recounted the Battle of Lucheng, where he had led a team to pursue the Emperor of Yao State, Duan Aoze, to capture him and end the war. He described confronting Duan Aoze, telling him that despite the dishonorable circumstances, he had to capture him for the sake of the people.
Li Wei mentioned that Yao State was now sending envoys to negotiate peace, and he intended to return the flag along with the prisoners as a gesture of sincerity. However, Jin'an was visibly distressed by this revelation. Claiming sudden unwellness, he quickly excused himself, leaving the sword behind. Later that night, Jin'an returned to his quarters, his memory piecing together fragmented recollections of his past.
He remembered playing with his elder brother, Duan Aoze, who called him "Aodeng," and bowing before their father, the Emperor. His memories then shifted to a brutal battle scene where Li Wei confronted Duan Aoze. He saw Duan Aoze, the sage ruler of Yao State, pleading "Aodeng, save me!" and asserting "I am your elder brother!" as Li Wei, the General of Cavalry of Taijin, declared his intention to end his life.
This confirmed Jin'an's growing conviction that Li Wei was responsible for his brother's death. Meanwhile, a messenger reported to the Empress Dowager of Yao State about a man resembling the missing Prince Annan, but with a different demeanor, who had a conflict with the Emperor of Taijin over General Li Shuang. The Empress Dowager deduced that this man must be Duan Aodeng, especially since Jin Wujian had not returned to report.
Unable to control him like a "shadow puppet" anymore, she declared that she could not allow him to return alive to Yao State. Her advisor cautioned that Prince Annan's former supporters in the court were still searching for him, and with the young emperor's position unstable, they could not afford to be careless. Recognizing Su Muyang's conflict with the man over Li Shuang, the Empress Dowager decided to offer Su Muyang a generous deal for his cooperation.
In the Taijin imperial court, a minister pressed Su Muyang to convict Jia Shihong for embezzling disaster relief funds. The Prime Minister, Ji Lan, tried to intervene, accusing the minister of rebellion, but the minister urged Su Muyang not to fear powerful officials. Su Muyang then declared Jia Shihong dismissed, his property confiscated, and his entire nine-clan family executed as a warning.
Ji Lan protested, citing his position as Prime Minister, but Su Muyang retorted that Ji Lan himself claimed closeness to Jia Shihong, and further accused Ji Lan of regicide, revealing that a special investigation had uncovered Ji Lan's crime of switching the late emperor's elixir. Su Muyang ordered Jin Bao, the eunuch involved, to confess. Jin Bao tearfully admitted his guilt, blaming Ji Lan for forcing him. Su Muyang immediately ordered Ji Lan imprisoned and the entire Ji family executed.
Back at the Li residence, the steward, Quan, excitedly informed Jin'an that Li Wei's birthday was approaching. Quan was busy making preparations, explaining that while Li Wei usually disliked extravagance, this year, with Li Shuang and Jin'an both present, a lively celebration was in order. Jin'an had not heard about it, and Quan explained Li Wei's usual simple habits but emphasized the special nature of this year's gathering. Later, Su Muyang visited Ji Tianjiao in the Imperial Prison.
She sarcastically noted his newfound interest in visiting her in prison, contrasting it with his previous avoidance of her palace. She accused him of hypocrisy, believing he was merely clearing the path for Li Shuang's coronation. Su Muyang countered that her sole focus on the Empress's position made her unworthy to stand beside him. Ji Tianjiao bitterly reminded him that he would not have survived without her family's support.
Su Muyang dismissed her claims, stating that his survival was due to the late emperor's use of him as a pawn, and he had seized the empire himself, thus he would not forgive the Ji family's attempts to exploit his power. He then presented her with poison and a knife, stating that as his lawful wife, he could not bear to see her publicly executed.
He suggested that a posthumous title would still grant her the Empress position she so coveted. Su Muyang then confronted the Prime Minister, Ji Lan, who was weak from hunger. Ji Lan, in his despair, finally realized Su Muyang's elaborate scheme: all his feigned weakness since arriving in the capital was a trap to arrange Jin Bao's actions, allowing Su Muyang to kill his own father and eliminate Ji Lan in one fell swoop.
Su Muyang openly admitted it was all a staged performance, and a temporary humiliation was a small price to pay. Ji Lan threatened to expose him, but Su Muyang, confident in his absolute power, scoffed at the threat. Su Muyang then dropped Ji Tianjiao's chain near Ji Lan, declaring Ji Lan's death would be his first political accomplishment. Enraged, Ji Lan slammed his head against the wall, dying instantly.
Su Muyang, showing no remorse, ordered Ji Lan's head to be displayed at the city gate for three days as a warning to others. Upon hearing the news of Ji Lan and Ji Tianjiao's deaths in prison, Li Wei knew Su Muyang would inevitably target the Li family next. He urgently told Li Shuang and Jin'an to pack their belongings and depart immediately, fearing further delays. Li Shuang refused to leave her father to face Su Muyang alone.
Li Wei reminded her of his earlier conversation with Jin'an and insisted they leave, assuring her that the Li family's long-standing reputation and the Changfeng Army's continued command would offer him some protection, and that Su Muyang would not dare go too far. At that moment, Su Muyang arrived at the Li residence. Su Muyang approached Li Shuang, holding a hairpin he had wanted to give her in Lucheng, but which she had refused then.
He asked her to wear it for her upcoming coronation. Li Shuang, unimpressed, sarcastically commented on his eagerness to arrange a coronation so soon after the Ji family's demise. Su Muyang tried to justify his actions, claiming he only wished to atone for past regrets caused by the late emperor's arranged marriage that separated them. He even offered Jin'an high office, wealth, and a lifetime of prosperity as compensation, acknowledging Li Shuang's feelings for him.
Li Shuang, however, questioned whether this compensation was truly for Jin'an or for Su Muyang's own guilty conscience. She accused him of drugging Jin'an with "Kongqing Water" to suppress his powers, enabling his abduction. She also directly accused him of killing Su Muli and framing Jin'an, asking if he feared divine retribution. Su Muyang finally dropped his facade, confessing to everything.
He admitted he had personally killed Su Muli with his own hand and intended for Jin'an to bear the guilt of fratricide, to die with injustice and no proper burial. Li Shuang questioned how he could betray Jin'an, who had risked his life for her. Su Muyang responded that the victor takes all, and to achieve his goals, he could sacrifice anyone—parents, siblings, relatives, and even his wife.
He claimed Li Shuang was the only person he ever truly cared for, yet she had betrayed him for another man. Despite this, he claimed to have softened, even allowing her to rescue Jin'an. Proclaiming himself Emperor, he declared that he would obtain whatever he desired. He vowed to keep Li Shuang by his side forever, ensuring she would experience the same unrequited love and despair as him, warning that all who defied him would meet a bitter end.
Meanwhile, Jin'an noticed two men, Wang Meng and Wei Heng, following him. He confronted them, asking their intentions. They explained they were not bandits but were looking for their long-missing master, whose surname was Duan, and whose appearance Jin'an resembled. They revealed that their master was not in the coffin a year ago, and they were sworn to loyalty, even in death. Jin'an provocatively suggested their master might be dead, which angered Wei Heng, who threatened him.
Jin'an then revealed he knew their names, shocking them. Wang Meng and Wei Heng, recognizing him as Prince Annan, immediately knelt. They explained that Empress Dowager Qin had sent a letter to Su Muyang, revealing Jin'an's true identity, and they had ridden swiftly to warn him so he could escape before the message reached Taijin Palace. Jin'an stated he would return to Yao State, but not yet.
He recounted the Battle of Lucheng, remembering Empress Dowager Qin taking his elder brother, Duan Aoze, out of the palace. He remembered a stone chamber and seeing Aoze, but his memory of what happened next was blank. He pressed them for details on his brother's death. Wang Meng tearfully explained that when they arrived, Aoze was lying in a pool of blood. Li Wei, after sheathing his sword, fled despite their pursuit.
Wei Heng then blamed Li Wei for Aoze's death, Empress Dowager Qin's rise to power, and the deaths of their comrades, imploring Jin'an to avenge them. Jin'an firmly stated that Li Shuang was not involved and should not be harmed, declaring that he would only kill Li Wei. His subordinates pledged their unwavering loyalty. Later that night, Li Shuang found Jin'an still awake. She had been waiting for him. Jin'an said he had just been walking around.
Li Shuang playfully teased him about how men change after marriage, accusing him of keeping secrets or hiding money. Jin'an affectionately told her that she was the only one in the world who could keep him in check. He then happily informed her that he had asked Li Wei for her hand in marriage, and Li Wei had agreed. Jin'an planned to take her away from Yunjing, to cut ties with all their troubles and start a new life together.
Li Shuang was overjoyed, expressing her desire to be with him forever. However, she suggested they stay for Li Wei's birthday tomorrow, as they might not see him again for a long time after they left. The following day, a eunuch presented Su Muyang with an urgent letter from Yao State, to his annoyance about unfinished land cession.
Su Muyang, after questioning his eunuch about the birthday gift sent to Li Wei and dismissively reacting to suggestions of showing more imperial favor to the powerful Li family, finally read the letter. The message revealed that the death of Prince Annan Duan Aodeng of the former Yao dynasty was suspicious, and he was now secretly residing in Taijin under the name Jin'an. The letter requested the Emperor of Taijin to facilitate his return and avoid any trouble. Su Muyang, upon reading this, realized that Jin'an was, in fact, Duan Aodeng.
Episode 31 Recap
On the day of Li Wei's birthday banquet, Li Shuang and Li Ting offered their congratulations to their father. Li Wei mentioned preparing three red envelopes, one of which was for Jin'an. Li Ting urged Jin'an to give his birthday wishes. Jin'an, however, stated that mere words couldn't fully express his sincerity and that he had prepared a special gift for Grand General Li. Li Shuang, moved, held Jin'an's hand to thank him.
As he presented it, men he had brought with him attacked Li Wei. Li Wei, having sensed something amiss, swiftly counterattacked, with Li Shuang and Li Ting rushing to his defense. Li Shuang called out to Jin'an to protect her father, but Jin'an grabbed a knife and moved to strike Li Wei. In disbelief, Li Shuang positioned herself between them.
As the Changfeng Army arrived, Jin'an's subordinates urged him to retreat, warning that Empress Dowager Qin's secret letter had likely reached the Taijin Palace. They promised to cover his escape. Jin'an then mounted his horse and fled. Li Shuang, filled with indignation, quickly pursued him. She confronted him, demanding to know why he tried to kill her father.
She reminded him of their agreement to leave Yunjing together that day and accused him of using the birthday visit as a pretext to execute his plan. Jin'an confessed that his love for her was real, but there were some things he had to do, claiming that his most cherished family member had been killed by Li Wei. Li Shuang refused to believe him, asserting that her father never indiscriminately killed innocent people, and questioned his true identity.
Jin'an insisted that Li Wei must pay his blood debt and asked if Li Shuang would come with him. Li Shuang responded with outrage, asking if he expected her to turn her sword against her own father. She then stabbed him in the shoulder, declaring that their bond was broken, and they no longer owed each other anything. Li Shuang walked away, leaving Jin'an to collapse after watching her disappear into the distance.
Following Jin'an's actions, the Taijin and Yao State armies clashed. Jin'an was taken to an inn within Yao State territory by his loyal subordinates. Upon waking, he inquired about the Battle of Lucheng and his elder brother. His subordinates informed him that a year had passed since the Battle of Lucheng, which their army lost, and that His Majesty, Jin'an's brother, had been assassinated after mysteriously leaving the palace with Consort Qin.
They also revealed that the court had announced Jin'an's death. Suspecting foul play, they had secretly investigated until tracing his whereabouts in Taijin. They further stated that Grand General Li Wei was accused of assassinating His Majesty. Jin'an, who had no memory of the past year, grew furious, concluding that Consort Qin had killed his brother and Li Wei was complicit.
His subordinates explained that Consort Qin was now Empress Dowager, controlled the court, and had purged Jin'an's former loyalists with fabricated crimes. Deciding it was time to reclaim his rightful place, Jin'an announced his intention to return to court, planning to deliver a "grand gift." Meanwhile, Empress Dowager Qin was discussing the border situation with her ministers.
She advocated for tearing up the peace treaty with Taijin, dismissing the fate of Duan Aodeng's (Jin'an's) soldiers who, even if they returned, deserved death for their defeat at Lucheng. Suddenly, Jin'an, revealing his true identity as Prince Annan Duan Aodeng, appeared in the main hall. The shocked ministers quickly rallied around him. Empress Dowager Qin, feigning delight at his return, moved to reinstate his title as Prince Annan.
Ignoring her pretense, Jin'an went to light incense, asserting that the respect he commanded came from his valor in bloody battles and his contributions to Yao State's prosperity and territorial expansion, not from her decree. He warned her to behave herself, or her life would be forfeit. He then accused her of orchestrating his brother's assassination by taking him out of the palace.
He stated he should kill her now to appease his brother's spirit but refrained due to the fragile political situation and out of pity for his young nephew, the emperor. Back in the Taijin palace, Li Shuang was brought before the Emperor. She explained that her conflict with Jin'an was a personal vendetta, not a state matter. Su Muyang, playing with a hairpin, questioned her wisdom, suggesting her intelligence had failed her when it came to matters of the heart.
He harshly informed her that Jin'an was, in fact, Duan Aodeng, Prince Annan of Yao State. Li Shuang initially dismissed this as an absurd fabrication, until Su Muyang added that Duan Aoze, Yao State's former ruler and Duan Aodeng's brother, had died by her father Li Wei's sword. Li Shuang's mind raced back to Jin'an's words about his dearest family being killed by Li Wei, and she finally grasped the immense consequences of her actions.
Su Muyang then rebuked her for jeopardizing the hard-won peace and offered her a chance to redeem herself by leading troops to attack Yao State. Li Shuang, though advocating for peace due to Taijin's heavy casualties, was met with Su Muyang's firm resolve. He argued that the former emperor was incompetent and Prince Li cruel, and only he could ensure Taijin's lasting peace.
He emphasized that Yao State was weakened after Lucheng, and striking now was crucial before Duan Aodeng could regain strength and rebuild his forces. Faced with this reality, Li Shuang reluctantly accepted the mission to lead the army against Yao State and Duan Aodeng. Li Shuang returned to Lucheng, her heart aching as she grappled with the realization that Jin'an, the man she loved, was Duan Aodeng, the enemy commander she had fought for years.
She reminded her troops that despite any past assistance from the "Black-robed stranger," Duan Aodeng was their enemy. Meanwhile, in Yao State, as Taijin mobilized its army, Jin'an mocked the idea of surrender. He declared that battles lost on the field must be reclaimed there and made a military pledge to offer his head if he failed. He was appointed General of the Cavalry.
On the battlefield, Jin'an spotted Li Shuang, the Taijin Grand General, and was informed she was Li Wei's daughter. Recalling his brother's death, he proclaimed it was time for the Li family to pay their blood debt. Li Shuang questioned if he had forgotten everything, but Jin'an, with a cold demeanor, stated that national and familial grudges could never be forgotten, and all past love and hatred between them ended there.
They clashed, Li Shuang asserting that victory was still undecided. However, Yao forces launched an ambush, catching Li Shuang's troops by surprise. Her subordinates, Luo Teng and Ji Ran, urged a retreat, but Li Shuang was captured by Jin'an. When a subordinate asked why they weren't pursuing the fleeing Taijin army, Jin'an replied that having Li Shuang "was enough."
Episode 32 Recap
Li Shuang was brought back to Yao State as a prisoner. In the dungeon, Jin'an cruelly tortured her, demanding a letter of surrender. He taunted her by bringing up her deep private affection for Taijin's emperor, an accusation that shattered Li Shuang's heart.
Jin'an had also taunted Li Shuang about Taijin's General of Cavalry being a coward for sending his daughter to her death instead of leading the campaign himself, adding that she should be grateful he came, or she'd already be in the ground with her emperor. Li Shuang remained defiant, arguing that if he truly wanted to kill her, he would have done so on the battlefield to assert his power, not waited until now.
Jin'an explained that the timing of her death significantly impacted the outcome, and that he was giving her a chance to live because he saw some spirit in her. He ended by advising her to think carefully. Meanwhile, the Majesty was surprised by Jin'an's victory. She had wanted to use the war to get rid of him, but his success only strengthened his position.
Though Prince Annan was arrogant, he had considerable talent in leading troops, and his victory resolved their immediate crisis. The Majesty, however, feared for her son Yu's throne, believing Duan Aodeng's royal bloodline and growing prestige at court, now bolstered by military merit, could sway opportunistic old ministers to disloyalty. She declared that Duan Aodeng must die.
Her aide suggested using Li Shuang, pointing out that Jin'an's assassination attempt on Li Wei before leaving Taijin had created a rift between him and Li Shuang. The Majesty worried Jin'an might not lower his guard, having forgotten his past memories, but her aide assured her that someone behind the scenes could "stir the waves." Pleased, the Majesty promised her aide a high ministerial position and additional rewards if the matter was handled well.
She explicitly instructed him to show no mercy during the act, just to ensure Li Shuang was left with a single breath of life. The Majesty's eunuch, Bai Kun, came to the dungeon under the guise of Prince Annan's authority. He initially feigned politeness, expressing sympathy for Li Shuang's suffering, but Li Shuang saw through his act and warned him not to waste time trying to persuade her; the Changfeng Army would die fighting, never surrender.
Bai Kun insisted she was being stubborn and offered to vouch for her safety if she wrote the surrender letter. When she refused, calling them "damned curs," Bai Kun brought in two of her captured Changfeng Army soldiers, Lyu Yi and Qin Wu. He threatened to kill them to force her hand, saying he assumed she would care for her soldiers' lives. Li Shuang pleaded for him to release them and come at her instead.
Lyu Yi defied Bai Kun, vowing that Taijin's army would tear him limb from limb. Bai Kun then cruelly executed Lyu Yi in front of Li Shuang, then Qin Wu. Overcome with grief and rage, Li Shuang vowed to kill Bai Kun. He chillingly claimed it was Prince Annan's order. Li Shuang then demanded Bai Kun kill her, saying he needn't waste more time.
Enraged by her defiance, Bai Kun called her a "Beautiful Lord of Hell" and ordered his soldiers to continue torturing her, even going as far as to tell them he was "giving her to them as a reward." Jin'an, after discussing the care of wounded soldiers and compensation for the fallen, had been asked by his aide why he didn't simply kill Li Shuang to strike fear into Taijin.
Jin'an explained that despite the victory, their army needed time to recover from heavy losses. He intended to keep Li Shuang alive to "check" Taijin, knowing Li Wei would not abandon his family member. This would lure Li Wei out, allowing Jin'an to avenge his brother. His aide then mentioned Li Shuang's hunger strike and that Bai Kun had gone to the camp, knowing his ruthless methods. Jin'an immediately showed concern upon hearing Bai Kun's name.
Li Shuang was brutally tortured, but she remained unyielding. As she cried in despair, believing Jin'an had ordered this, Jin'an suddenly appeared in the dungeon. He furiously confronted the soldiers, demanding what they took military discipline for, pointing out that torturing and killing prisoners in the camp without authorization was a capital offense. He swiftly dealt with those who ignored military discipline, then carefully carried Li Shuang out of the dungeon.
As he carried her, Li Shuang, in a daze, repeatedly called out "Jin'an," a name that struck Duan Aodeng as strange and caused an inexplicable unease within him. This was the first time he had heard that name since losing his memories. Jin'an was unfazed by Bai Kun's attempt to use the Majesty's name to justify his actions, stating he had never feared her and that Bai Kun's actions were a capital offense in the army.
Jin'an took Li Shuang to a secluded villa to recover. She was still calling his name, which Duan Aodeng found strange, wondering about the identity of this "Jin'an." When Li Shuang woke, she was wary, instinctively sitting up with an expression of defense and hostility. Jin'an informed her that the prison guards had been dealt with according to military law and that she would have to tend to her wounds herself as there were no other women in the army.
Li Shuang, still traumatized, suggested he kill her if he truly wanted to avenge his brother. Jin'an rebuffed her, stating that "each debt has its owner," and that he would personally take Li Wei's life but would not involve others. He told her she couldn't die yet, implicitly using her soldiers as leverage by saying if she died, her men would be buried with her.
He reassured her that what happened today would not happen again and that he would send medicine regularly, instructing her to rest and recover there. Li Shuang could only cry. Later, Jin'an, carrying Bai Kun's lifeless body, stormed into the Majesty's palace. Her eunuch tried to stop him, citing palace rules, but Jin'an ignored him. The Majesty confronted him, accusing him of trespassing in the harem.
Jin'an retorted that she cared more about his intrusion than Bai Kun's life, implying her complicity. The Majesty, in turn, threatened him with an imperial decree that could cost him his life, reminding him that the late emperor was no longer there to clean up his messes. Jin'an boldly declared he wouldn't have come if he were afraid.
He asserted his authority as commander of the army, emphasizing that military law was absolute and brooked no outside interference, a fact he believed the Majesty knew well. He then warned her that while the young emperor had trusted ministers like Zuo Cheng and Qiu Tai to assist him in matters of governance, there was no need for external intervention. He advised her to "remain peacefully in the harem and take good care of herself," leaving her seething with anger.
Back at the villa, Jin'an's aide reported that Li Shuang had eaten a little but soon vomited, and the imperial physician diagnosed it as "grief." Jin'an then went to Li Shuang, informing her that Bai Kun had been dealt with according to military law, as an explanation for his actions. Li Shuang, still wary and resentful, accused him of pretending, claiming Bai Kun had explicitly stated Jin'an's orders.
Jin'an, defending his honor, insisted he had always been aboveboard, earning what he wanted through his own abilities. He asserted he would never stoop so low as to use soldiers' lives to force a surrender, stating that commanders shared a life-and-death bond with their men. He then offered her a few candies, telling her if she couldn't stomach food, she should eat those, and not to let her men die in vain.
Li Shuang took a candy, then surprisingly declared that she would only eat if Jin'an agreed to her demands. She criticized Yao State's food as "barren and bitter" compared to Taijin's, making it hard to swallow. When Jin'an called her a picky and decadent prisoner, she demanded he prepare 30 different specialty dishes daily, including rice, fruits, vegetables, fresh meat, wine, rare game, and fine desserts, for a prisoner.
She argued that if she was so important to him, these demands shouldn't be beyond his means. When Jin'an seemed to agree, she clarified her true intention: she wanted the monetary equivalent of all those extravagant foods converted into plain rations and medicine to be distributed among her Changfeng Army soldiers, and a promise that they would not be mistreated. Jin'an agreed to her terms, telling her he expected her to be "full of life" the next time they met.
Li Shuang kept the candy. Meanwhile, on Wuling Mountain, Mo Yin and Lu Xin enjoyed a lively existence, filled with playful banter and gambles. Lu Xin tirelessly searched through ancient texts, determined to understand the power of Jade Linglong and find a way to remove the backlash between the shadow puppet and its blood master. One day, after Mo Yin lost a medical contest to Lu Xin, he declared he would enter closed-door cultivation, much to Lu Xin's annoyance.
She accused him of being a coward, trying to avoid his punishment of pounding 1,000 bundles of herbs. She lamented his change from the strict master who used to preach hard work to the current lazy and deceptive one. After she left, Mo Yin emerged, pleased at her departure, only for Lu Xin to return, having heard him. They then discussed the Jade Linglong.
Mo Yin explained that the Jade Linglong itself was not inherently wrong, as it could greatly enhance one's power; the fault lay with those who used its power for ill. Lu Xin, however, argued that a power requiring another person to pay with their life could never be a good thing, prompting her research into breaking the backlash.
They continued to bicker as Mo Yin slowly pounded herbs, with Lu Xin scolding him for his slow pace and his "child's play" approach to common ailments, arguing that treating everyday illnesses was just as valuable as conquering rare diseases. She questioned his use of so many common herbs, but he simply told her to focus on their bet, saying he had his own plans. Lu Xin jokingly blamed him for spoiling her and not teaching her rules.
Mo Yin eventually decided to take a nap, leaving Lu Xin to pound the herbs. As Li Shuang slowly recovered, the Majesty visited her at the villa. She presented Li Shuang with a substance called "Brain-Devouring Powder," suggesting it could help her eliminate Duan Aodeng and end the constant warfare and bloodshed across the land. Jin'an learned of the Majesty's visit and, suspecting her intentions, personally brought a meal box to the villa. He sat down to eat with Li Shuang, intentionally creating an opportunity for her to use the poison.
Episode 33 Recap
Prince Annan, having intentionally given Li Shuang an opportunity to poison him, ensured that the prisoners in his camp were well-provided with food and medicine. He informed Li Shuang that the two innocent soldiers who were killed had been honorably buried and gave her their identity tokens, suggesting she might want to keep them.
When Prince Annan hesitated to eat, Li Shuang, understanding his fear of poison, took a large mouthful of food to reassure him, stating that an honorable person would never stoop to vile tricks and she believed him to be the same. Prince Annan then questioned Li Shuang about the name "Jin'an" she frequently called out in her dreams. Li Shuang explained that Jin'an was a memory-lost servant she found in the wild and kept in her residence for chores.
She described him as useless and trouble-prone, yet a good cook who always kept her company and cheered her up, much like Prince Annan was doing now. Li Shuang asked if Prince Annan had ever loved a woman, implying he wouldn't understand her feelings. Prince Annan retorted that his focus was on protecting the country and making his mark, not on romance.
He further pointed out that Li Shuang was in danger, and the person she cared for was nowhere to be found, making her concern useless. As Prince Annan was about to leave, Li Shuang stopped him, asking him to bring a qin during his next visit. She explained that since she was a captive who wouldn't sign a surrender and wouldn't be killed or released, she might as well do something she enjoyed.
She added that Prince Annan resembled Jin'an, and his visits would make her happy. Angered, Prince Annan strictly forbade her from ever comparing him to a servant again. Meanwhile, on Wuling Mountain, Mo Yin found Lu Xin packing her belongings. He proudly mentioned how he had finished grinding a thousand bundles of herbs in just a few days, instead of the promised half-month.
Lu Xin explained that she had made progress in her medical studies and earnestly requested permission to leave the mountain to practice medicine. Mo Yin flatly refused, citing Wuling Mountain's centuries-old rule that what is learned on the mountain must stay there. Lu Xin challenged him, questioning why he could save Su Muyang (who later endangered Jin'an and Li Shuang) but she couldn't leave to help commoners.
She passionately defended her desire to cure people and feel the satisfaction of their sincere gratitude. Mo Yin dismissed her as vain and focused on "worldly success" he didn't care for. He warned her that if she insisted on leaving, she would no longer be considered a Wuling Mountain member. Lu Xin retorted that she didn't care for such rules.
Noticing Mo Yin's arms were sore from grinding herbs, she softened and gave him a pain-relieving ointment she had developed, grumbling that it was wasted on a "heartless person" like him. Back at the courtyard, Prince Annan was still troubled by his conversation with Li Shuang. He summoned his subordinate and asked if he had ever encountered a man named Jin'an in Taijin who resembled him during his search.
The subordinate vehemently denied it, showering Prince Annan with flattery, and warned him against the cunning Taijin people, advising him not to be swayed by Li Shuang. Shortly after, a guard rushed in to report trouble in Li Shuang's courtyard. Prince Annan hurried there, finding the guards covering their ears. Inside, Li Shuang was playing the qin dreadfully.
He sharply told her to stop, advising her to read or walk instead, as she excelled in everything but lacked "self-awareness" in her qin playing. Li Shuang countered that she loved playing the qin to nurture her heart and mind, even suggesting Prince Annan try it to ease his "violent temper." Prince Annan then confronted Li Shuang about not taking her internal medicine, noting she only used the external remedies.
He provoked her by asking if a renowned Taijin general was afraid of bitter decoctions. Li Shuang, rising to the challenge, quickly drank the medicine, only to discover it was sweet. Prince Annan explained that he had ordered honey to be added, knowing she disliked bitterness, and noted she would have known it wasn't bitter if she had tried it sooner. He dismissed her grateful look, stating he needed his captives to be healthy.
Li Shuang, acknowledging his gesture, offered to play a tune as thanks, mentioning it was "Jin'an's favorite piece." Prince Annan tried to leave, but Li Shuang stopped him, insisting he listen. After enduring her terrible playing, Li Shuang asked for his opinion, to which he sarcastically replied "wonderful." However, as she prepared to play more, he sharply told her to stop, stating that the qin was elegant music and should not be "ruined" like this. Prince Annan then took over.
He showed her the correct hand form and played a beautiful piece. Li Shuang was lost in memories of her past with Jin'an, even though the man playing before her did not remember those times. Prince Annan, reminding her of her status, stated that while he respected her as a fellow military commander and would not mistreat her, she needed to know her place.
Li Shuang then cleverly used his words, stating her survival was important for the Changfeng Army, and therefore he should not begrudge her food. Prince Annan warned her against "useless tricks," asserting he had "seen plenty of women before." Li Shuang teased him about the "kinds of women" he'd seen, before mentioning she was out of candy. Later that night, Lu Xin secretly packed many common herbs and left Wuling Mountain.
Mo Yin, discovering her, decided to accompany her, claiming he wanted to prevent her "strange prescriptions" from harming people and ruining Wuling Mountain's reputation. Lu Xin was touched, realizing he couldn't bear to part with her. They shared a moment watching the sunrise, reflecting on having seen both sunset and sunrise together.
Back in his residence, Prince Annan had been drinking calming medicine for several days since his last visit to Li Shuang's courtyard, with his subordinates commenting on Li Shuang's qin playing disturbing him. His subordinate suggested an attack on Taijin, but Prince Annan explained that his true intention behind the last battle was to make Taijin understand the situation and reopen peace talks, so he could rescue the thousands of captured Yao State soldiers who were like brothers to them.
When a subordinate asked if Li Shuang's leaky roof should be repaired, Prince Annan instructed to leave it, saying her "iron will" would endure it. His subordinates worried among themselves that Prince Annan seemed to be questioning his past in Taijin, and Li Shuang, as his former wife, might use this to undermine their troops' morale. Lu Xin and Mo Yin arrived in Lucheng and began treating patients.
Lu Xin introduced Mo Yin as her new assistant, much to his annoyance, as the townspeople questioned his trustworthiness. The grateful townspeople thanked Lu Xin profusely and offered gifts to both her and "Assistant Mo." They informed Lu Xin and Mo Yin that Lucheng was unsafe because Prince Annan (Duan Aodeng) was not dead and had led a successful counterattack, crushing the Taijin army.
They also revealed that General Li Shuang had been captured on the battlefield, leaving the border unguarded and Lucheng vulnerable. In the Taijin imperial court, officials debated Li Shuang's capture, perplexed by the Yao State's inaction and suspicious of Prince Annan's cunning. Some urged a surprise attack, citing the Yao State's heavy casualties. However, Grand General Li Wei countered that with widespread floods and a strained treasury, peace talks were the urgent priority to aid the suffering populace.
Su Muyang, the Emperor, then sought Li Wei's opinion, who reiterated that peace talks were paramount. An official accused Li Wei of putting personal interest (his daughter Li Shuang) above national dignity, calling his advice shameless. Li Wei challenged any of the officials to lead troops to battle themselves, criticizing them for their "sharp tongues" and "doing nothing" in court while disregarding the people's suffering and the soldiers' lives, insisting on fighting "battles you know cannot be won."
He then formally requested to personally lead the peace talks as an envoy, escorting war captives to the front lines. He vowed that if he brought disgrace to the state, his entire family would face execution without complaint. Su Muyang granted his request. After the court session, Su Muyang and Li Wei met privately, revealing that their heated exchange had been a staged act.
Su Muyang explained that given the severe flood crisis, ending the war was the correct policy, but as Emperor, he could not publicly reverse his earlier stance for war without losing face. Li Wei acknowledged his "personal motives" in saving his daughter and thanked Su Muyang for his understanding. Su Muyang, in turn, felt responsible for Li Shuang's predicament.
He reminisced about his childhood, learning with Li Shuang and from Li Wei in the General's residence, questioning if his reign truly embodied "diligence and benevolence." Li Wei reassured him, advising him to simply be true to his conscience and his people for the peace of Taijin. That night, Li Ting came to bid his father, Li Wei, farewell. Li Ting asked if Li Wei was going to the Yao State to fight.
Li Wei corrected him, stating he was going for peace talks, aiming for a world without war and for the peace and prosperity of Taijin. Li Ting then deduced that Prince Annan was Jin'an. He warned his father to tell Jin'an that if he dared to harm Li Wei or Li Shuang in the slightest, Li Ting would personally kill him.
Li Wei imparted a profound lesson to his son: that war inevitably brings bloodshed and sacrifice, and that he and Li Shuang led troops into battle "to end wars, not for hatred or killing." Li Ting, still worried, asked if Li Shuang would return safely, and Li Wei promised to ensure her safe return.
Episode 34 Recap
A heavy rain poured down on Yao State, a rare occurrence. Prince Annan, also known as Duan Aodeng, remembered that Li Shuang's old courtyard, where she was being held, had a leaky roof. A subordinate had mentioned earlier that the roof needed repairs, especially with recent strong winds. Duan Aodeng rushed to the courtyard, where he found Li Shuang clumsily trying to repair the roof with straw, despite the ongoing downpour.
He commented on her being "so clumsy, just like a prisoner," and questioned why she didn't call the guards. Li Shuang retorted that as a prisoner, she had no right to be picky. Duan Aodeng then stated he feared the dilapidated roof might collapse and kill his prisoner, which would be a loss. He took it upon himself to check the roof, dismissing Li Shuang's query about his personal involvement by saying, "The guards have their own duties."
After Duan Aodeng climbed onto the roof to repair a large hole, he accidentally fell. Li Shuang was momentarily stunned, then couldn't help but laugh. Though injured, Duan Aodeng insisted he was fine. Li Shuang, teasing him, brought him an ointment he had sent earlier, remarking that he was farsighted for providing medicine he could now use himself.
While Li Shuang helped apply the medicine, she commented on Yao State's unusually heavy rain, wishing for similar weather annually so the people could lead better lives. Duan Aodeng found her words, and the rainy scene itself, strangely familiar, as if he had experienced it before. Li Shuang then noted that his fall was because of her, adding that she didn't like owing favors.
Her gaze fell upon a bite mark on his shoulder, a mark she once told him would be their "new bond." Duan Aodeng, noticing her pause, explained that a severe injury had caused him to forget many things, including the origin of that mark. As Duan Aodeng struggled to stand, Li Shuang suggested he stay the night due to the heavy rain and his injury. Duan Aodeng, concerned about propriety, asked if she had "improper thoughts."
Li Shuang countered that his leaving injured in the middle of the night would "cause even more gossip" and reminded him the medicine would help him recover by morning. When he asked where she would sleep, she offered to sleep on the floor to preserve his reputation. Duan Aodeng warned her not to try any tricks while he slept, emphasizing his battle-hardened alertness.
As he lay down, Li Shuang's mind was flooded with memories of their past, including their promise to "die together" and her willingness to "die for him," causing her immense heartache. The next morning, Duan Aodeng woke up having slept deeply, unaware of when he had drifted off. He reflected on how he had intended to test Li Shuang but had inexplicably fallen asleep without any guard. He then ordered a subordinate to find a craftsman to repair the roof.
Meanwhile, Lu Xin and Mo Yin arrived, having tracked Li Shuang. Lu Xin was shocked to discover that Jinan was actually Duan Aodeng. Furious, she accused him of being ungrateful, especially after Li Shuang had almost died for him on Wuling Mountain. Mo Yin, however, calmed her, explaining that Duan Aodeng seemed to have completely forgotten Li Shuang and now only saw her as an enemy prisoner.
To facilitate Li Shuang's rescue, Mo Yin used needles to incapacitate the guards, ensuring they wouldn't remember their presence, though the effect would only last an hour. Lu Xin rushed in to rescue Li Shuang, urging her to leave, citing her poor living conditions and Duan Aodeng's lack of memory. However, Li Shuang refused, explaining that the unresolved misunderstandings between the two nations meant her escape would endanger her fellow captive soldiers, potentially reigniting bloodshed, which she wished to avoid.
Lu Xin, though frustrated by Li Shuang's grand vision for peace, reluctantly agreed to her decision. She promised that she and Mo Yin would protect Li Shuang in secret until Duan Aodeng allowed her safe return to Taijin. Upon exiting, Lu Xin found Mo Yin gone, who had left a message for her to "stay calm" and "meet at the inn in two days."
Back in his chambers, Duan Aodeng was still deeply troubled by his scars and why Li Shuang's every word and action stirred his emotions, leading him to question "why is all of this happening?" That night, he returned to Li Shuang's courtyard and found her sitting on the roof. He joined her, and Li Shuang noted his frequent visits, playfully suggesting he was acting like he owned the place and didn't need to come if there was nothing urgent.
She also showed concern, observing his bloodshot eyes. Duan Aodeng, explaining his visits were necessary for negotiations with Taijin, presented her with a bolt of fabric, a popular Taijin pattern he disliked but felt it would be wasteful to discard. Li Shuang, surprised it was fabric for women's clothing, jokingly asked if he wore it before thanking him. They then discussed their respective nations, with Li Shuang lamenting why, despite everyone's desire for peace, war persisted.
Duan Aodeng explained Yao State's harsh conditions, where many at the borders struggled for sustenance, and how moving the border south to Taijin's fertile land could bring prosperity to his people. Li Shuang challenged him, asking if his pursuit was for his people or a "private vendetta" for his brother's murder and hatred for Taijin. They continued to discuss the heavy responsibilities of rulers and generals, the futility of endless conflict, and the hope for a world free of war.
As it grew late, Duan Aodeng was about to leave when he saw Li Shuang had fallen asleep beside him. He gently brushed a fallen leaf from her forehead, his heart inexplicably stirred. Earlier, Mo Yin had returned to Wuling Mountain and copied Duan Aodeng's past drawings, then sent them to Duan Aodeng's residence. Upon seeing these images depicting their shared past, Duan Aodeng rushed back to Li Shuang, confronting her.
He demanded to know if they had met in Taijin and who he was then, but Li Shuang only responded, "Since you've already forgotten, why bother asking?" Enraged, Duan Aodeng threatened to kill her captive brothers one by one. Li Shuang defiantly asked if war and bloodshed brought him pleasure.
Duan Aodeng then pressed her about the "Brain-Devouring Powder" she had received, questioning why she never acted on her many opportunities to poison him, even when he fell asleep in front of her. He demanded to know her intentions: did she spare him because he resembled Jinan, or because he "was" Jinan? In a fit of passion, Duan Aodeng kissed Li Shuang. She, in turn, drove a hairpin into his shoulder, declaring, "You look like him. But you're not him."
Still reeling from the encounter, Duan Aodeng summoned his subordinate, who was in charge of security, asking if anything suspicious had been observed. The subordinate reported nothing amiss, but Duan Aodeng showed him the recently delivered drawings and demanded an explanation for their appearance. The subordinate apologized, admitting that someone with ill intentions had exploited a loophole. Duan Aodeng then gave a final warning, demanding to know what happened in Taijin and his relationship with Li Shuang.
The subordinate, despite Duan Aodeng's threats of severe punishment, steadfastly refused to speak, citing that it concerned "our nation's fate." At that moment, an urgent report arrived: Li Wei was leading troops, along with the previously unreleased Yao State prisoners, and would reach their city gates within half a day.
Duan Aodeng, understanding that Li Wei's move might not be an act of war, ordered all troops to array in formation, ensuring they would not lose the initiative regardless of what transpired.
Episode 35 Recap
Mo Yin confirmed that he had traveled to Wuling Mountain and back in just two days, creating rubbings of some paintings and delivering them to Prince Annan's Mansion. Lu Xin questioned why he didn't simply kill Prince Annan since he could enter and exit the mansion so easily. Mo Yin explained that if Prince Annan died, Li Shuang would be heartbroken, and then Lu Xin would be upset too.
He also believed that his death would not necessarily bring lasting peace between the two countries. Lu Xin was skeptical, asking what good those "flimsy sheets of paper" would do. Mo Yin insisted on trying this method since Li Shuang refused to leave. He hoped that if Jin'an could recall even a fragment of his past, Li Shuang's noble intentions might still have a chance.
He believed that everything experienced leaves a mark on the heart, and even though Jade Linglong controlled Jin'an's body, it never truly changed his heart. Mo Yin reassured Lu Xin that if this plan failed, he would personally rescue Li Shuang, telling her not to worry. Lu Xin then questioned his newfound compassion, noting he used to stay out of worldly affairs. Mo Yin confessed he was doing all of this for her.
He explained that having lived in isolation on Wuling Mountain for years, he hadn't understood human suffering until Jin Wujian attacked Wuling Mountain, causing numerous deaths and a bloodbath, which made him realize that war and slaughter only bring perpetual hatred and grief. Lu Xin then remembered something important: Li Shuang had specifically asked her to relay that while in captivity, someone had given her a bottle of a drug called Brain-Devouring Powder.
Meanwhile, the Empress Dowager learned from her spy that Li Shuang had not used the Brain-Devouring Powder. Furious, she called Li Shuang a "hopeless fool." When her subordinate expressed concern that Prince Annan would investigate the drug, the Empress Dowager declared that he would not live long enough to do so. With Li Wei's army at the city gate, she anticipated Duan Aodeng would confront them.
She immediately ordered archers to be set up, vowing that whether it was a battle or a truce, Prince Annan would die on the battlefield. Following the lead of the Brain-Devouring Powder, Mo Yin and Lu Xin infiltrated Yao State's imperial palace. Lu Xin, prioritizing her hunger, ended up in the imperial kitchen, to Mo Yin's exasperation.
She complained about the food and the lack of clues, while Mo Yin reiterated the importance of finding the mastermind behind the rare drug for Wuling Mountain's safety. When a guard discovered Lu Xin pilfering food, Mo Yin criticized her recklessness, while she confidently dismissed the guards as having "lousy martial skills." They evaded the guards, finding refuge in a surprisingly magnificent and golden chamber within the palace.
Lu Xin continued to critique the food, claiming it was worse than common restaurants, despite having eaten and stolen a good amount, which she justified by saying she gets hungry easily. They then stumbled upon a hidden, dark room that suddenly illuminated, revealing a tortured man chained within. Mo Yin cautiously approached, introducing themselves and asking the man's name and if he knew about the Brain-Devouring Powder.
Lu Xin was ready to dismiss him as a mute, but Mo Yin pressed on, asking if Duan Aodeng was responsible for his suffering. At the mention of Duan Aodeng's name, the man, who was Duan Aoze, finally spoke. The Empress Dowager went to the courtyard where Li Shuang was held. She expressed deep disappointment in Li Shuang for not following her orders, claiming she had thought Li Shuang was a "true heroine."
Li Shuang saw through her, stating that the Empress Dowager merely wanted to use her as a "knife to kill" Prince Annan, and her own death would still follow. The Empress Dowager then revealed that Li Shuang's father, Li Wei, had led an army and was currently engaged in "mortal combat" with Jin'an.
She declared that neither Jin'an nor Li Wei would leave the battlefield alive, and she wanted Li Shuang to "see the devastating outcome of your own merciful acts" before she personally ended Li Shuang's life. Li Wei led his army to the city gate, intending to negotiate peace and return the captured Yao State soldiers.
Jin'an rode out to meet him, surrounded by his own captured soldiers, and immediately demanded that Li Wei face the "blood feud" for his brother's death. Li Wei, refusing to draw his sword, argued that after decades of war, the past year's peace had brought much-needed rest to the people, and renewing conflict would plunge them into suffering. He offered his own life to secure peace and the return of the Yao State captives.
However, the Empress Dowager, who had brought Li Shuang to the city gate to witness the events, ordered her archers to fire at Li Wei. Jin'an intervened, blocking the arrows and declaring that envoys should not be harmed during wartime. The Empress Dowager, accusing Jin'an of treason and colluding with Taijin, ignored the protocol and the presence of her own captured soldiers, ordering a renewed volley of arrows.
Li Wei, seeing Jin'an in danger, sacrificed himself by taking an arrow for him, proclaiming that his death was for the people of Taijin and Yao State and served as repayment for the blood feud with Jin'an. Li Shuang watched in horror as her father died at the city gate. With his dying breath, Li Wei pleaded with Jin'an to ensure Li Shuang's safe departure.
Enraged by the Empress Dowager's actions, Jin'an flew to the city wall, seized her, and ordered her imprisonment in the military prison for military law punishment, accusing her of disregarding military discipline and killing her own soldiers. The Empress Dowager protested, asserting her authority as the Empress Dowager and the true sovereign of Yao State, and tried to justify her actions by referencing Li Wei's "blood debt" and Jin'an's alleged treason.
Jin'an retaliated by accusing her of orchestrating his other brother's assassination by luring him out of the palace, highlighting that Li Wei came seeking peace and that the Yao soldiers killed were their own. He then presented the Brain-Devouring Powder she gave to Li Shuang as further proof of her schemes, leading her to accuse Jin'an of colluding with Li Shuang, citing his numerous visits and overnight stays in her abode.
Li Shuang, observing the escalating accusations, laughed and called it a "dog-eat-dog" show. The Empress Dowager, desperate, then revealed Jin'an's true identity, proclaiming him to be the feared "man in black" who had caused such terror. The court officials were stunned. Jin'an, though admitting to being the man in black, explained that he had lost control of his body and forgotten his identity as Prince Annan at the time.
He declared he would take full responsibility for his actions, but vowed to eliminate the Empress Dowager, whom he called a "vile woman" for harming the emperor and killing countrymen, before his own death. Just as the Empress Dowager demanded proof of his accusations, Duan Aoze, Jin'an's elder brother, suddenly appeared in the imperial court, announcing, "I am living proof."
Duan Aoze's sudden appearance, facilitated by Mo Yin and Lu Xin, brought immense joy to Jin'an, who was relieved to see his elder brother alive. Duan Aoze immediately confronted the Empress Dowager, exposing her scheme to lure him out of the palace under false pretenses and attempt to control him with dark magic, resulting in Duan Aodeng (Jin'an) falling victim to it while trying to save him.
He questioned her continued persecution of Jin'an even after she had usurped the throne. The Empress Dowager, fueled by her long-standing hatred, confessed that ever since her marriage, Duan Aoze had only recognized her sister as his true wife. Even after she killed her sister, used a "Love-Binding Curse" on Duan Aoze, and bore him a son, Yu, she overheard him planning to pass the throne to Duan Aodeng instead of their own son.
Jin'an clarified that Duan Aoze's true disdain was for "her", not their son. The Empress Dowager then chillingly declared, "He who stands in my way must die." Following this intense exchange, Li Shuang, driven by grief and anger, attempted to kill the Empress Dowager with a knife, but both women were quickly apprehended. Li Wei's body was respectfully returned to the city.
Jin'an, deeply remorseful, accompanied Li Shuang to bid her father farewell, stating that her father had saved his life and that he would not flee if she sought "blood for blood." Li Shuang, however, acknowledged that her father had used his own life to bring an end to the long-standing feud between the two countries, and further bloodshed was not what he would have wanted. Overwhelmed with grief, Li Shuang mourned her father.
She confessed that for many years she had only called him "Grand General," rarely "Father," and had envied her brother, Ting, for their open father-child bond. She had always feared she wasn't truly qualified to be his daughter due to not being related by blood, and mistakenly believed that fighting valiantly on the battlefield would repay his kindness. She regretted keeping a "meaningless distance" due to her "opinionated" mindset, allowing precious moments to slip away.
While she never regretted becoming a female general and fighting on the battlefield, she now deeply regretted "not being a good enough daughter" to him. She solemnly wished him a peaceful and joyful next life. Jin'an then comforted her, reminding her that she had dedicated herself to the Li family's mission and Taijin's people, and now it was time for her to pursue her own desires.
Episode 36 Recap
Li Shuang confronted Jin'an, asking why he had admitted to being the man in black at the golden palace. Jin'an explained that when Empress Dowager Qin questioned him, many images flashed through his mind, revealing to him that he was indeed the man in black. Li Shuang pressed further, asking what else he remembered. Jin'an recalled falling in love with a woman in Taijin.
Li Shuang noted that as the Prince Annan of Yao State, falling in love with a woman from Taijin was destined to end poorly. Jin'an then pondered what would happen if he were not the Prince Annan. Li Shuang then inquired about Empress Dowager Qin's whereabouts. Jin'an informed her that because Empress Dowager Qin had drunk Double-Blossom Wine with his brother, Duan Aoze, they could not kill her, so she was imprisoned in the dungeon.
Li Shuang requested to see her. In the dungeon, Empress Dowager Qin cried out for release and to see her son, Yu. She mistakenly believed Li Shuang was sent by Duan Aodeng (Jin'an) to kill her. Li Shuang clarified her purpose, stating that the internal conflicts of Yao State were irrelevant to her.
She was there to see the person responsible for her father's death and was satisfied to see Empress Dowager Qin suffering a fate worse than death, living in a deranged state. Empress Dowager Qin, in turn, blamed Duan Aodeng, claiming he caused the death of Li Shuang's father by repeatedly obstructing her. She also accused Li Shuang of being soft-hearted for a man, which led to her father's demise.
Li Shuang questioned if Empress Dowager Qin's meticulous scheming and actions were worth her current miserable state. Empress Dowager Qin recounted her tragic past, explaining how at seventeen, she fell deeply in love with Duan Aoze after seeing him propose to her sister. She knelt for five days, begging her parents to let her marry him, even as a concubine, and sacrificed her dignity, all for a man who never loved her.
She declared that since he did not love her, she would make him hate her instead. Li Shuang pointed out that since Empress Dowager Qin held Duan Aoze's life in her hands due to the Double-Blossom Wine, she could have sought revenge by dying and taking him with her.
However, Empress Dowager Qin refused to die, insisting she had to live for her son, Yu, who was too young to lose his mother, and pleaded with Li Shuang to take her to him.
Li Shuang, unmoved, delivered a final, scathing indictment: Empress Dowager Qin had ruined her life for someone who did not love her, and while those she cared about would live peacefully, she would be forgotten and suffer a wretched existence in the dungeon, paying for Li Shuang's father's death. Empress Dowager Qin retorted that Li Shuang was no better, as Jin'an had also forgotten her.
Li Shuang, however, responded that while Jin'an might have forgotten her, he had once loved her deeply, a sentiment Empress Dowager Qin had never experienced from Duan Aoze. Mo Yin and Lu Xin had rescued Duan Aoze. Duan Aoze expressed gratitude, though he lamented that his leg injury was too severe for him to ever stand again, forcing others to push his wheelchair.
Lu Xin, observing Duan Aoze, commented that he was a good emperor who cared for his servants and hoped he could curb his younger brother's (Jin'an's) reckless warmongering for the peace of both states. Jin'an, though, cautioned Lu Xin about her impertinence when speaking to his brother. Duan Aoze, in turn, advised Jin'an to manage his temper. Jin'an then privately questioned Mo Yin and Lu Xin about his brother's condition.
Mo Yin confirmed there was no antidote for the Double-Blossom Wine, meaning Empress Dowager Qin could not be killed, but Duan Aoze's health would recover with gradual care. Jin'an profusely thanked them for saving his brother. Lu Xin cryptically suggested that Jin'an had more than one life-saving favor to be grateful for, and that he owed thanks to someone else besides them.
Jin'an then recognized Mo Yin as the person who had trespassed into his mansion, confirming Mo Yin's mysterious nature. Lu Xin, still unsure, wondered if Jin'an remembered anything, but Mo Yin assured her that Jin'an remembered far more than she thought, noting that Jin'an had known their names without them being mentioned. Mo Yin, understanding the complexities, advised letting Jin'an grapple with his memories in his own time.
Later, Jin'an expressed concern over Duan Aoze reviewing memorials so soon after his recovery, but Duan Aoze insisted he needed Jin'an to share the burden. Duan Aoze informed Jin'an that the court officials were vehemently calling for Li Shuang's execution to prevent future threats, especially since Li Wei, who came to negotiate peace, was tragically killed by their troops. Duan Aoze acknowledged Jin'an's unspoken feelings for Li Shuang, which were more complex than loyalty.
Jin'an maintained his unwavering loyalty to Yao State, and Duan Aoze reassured him of his trust. Duan Aoze explained that the protracted war had brought immense suffering to both nations, but with Taijin under a new, benevolent ruler, peace negotiations presented a promising start to a new era of prosperity. He encouraged Jin'an, recalling his brother's once free-spirited nature, to shed the burdens he had carried alone for the past year and return to being himself, following his heart.
Finally, Duan Aoze presented Jin'an with an amulet for his birthday, signifying a new beginning for him, the kingdom, and their relationship. Jin'an went to drink with Li Shuang, who remarked on his decision to join her despite the circumstances. Jin'an said she also needed company, being away from home. Li Shuang inquired about the day's constant fireworks, learning they were spontaneous celebrations for Duan Aoze's return to the throne, as he was beloved by the people.
Li Shuang wished for such peace to spread across the entire realm. Jin'an then informed her that he and his brother had agreed to release her along with the Taijin prisoners, and messages had been sent to the Changfeng Army for her pick-up. Li Shuang expressed surprise that they would release her so easily, given her status as a Taijin general.
Jin'an explained that the truth about their long-standing vendetta had come to light, and it was time for their grudges to end. He recalled Li Wei's dying wish for peace and his own desire to prevent further innocent lives from being lost, also acknowledging that he had not been mistreated during his time in Taijin. A messenger from the palace arrived to invite Jin'an to a birthday feast, which he declined, preferring to visit his brother in the morning.
Li Shuang, observing Jin'an's forgetfulness about his own birthday, remembered their past agreement to celebrate their birthdays together on the same day. She then realized that today was Jin'an's true birthday. To honor the occasion, Li Shuang changed her attire and performed a graceful dance for Jin'an. As she danced, memories of their shared past flooded Jin'an, leaving him entranced.
Later, as fireworks lit up the sky, Li Shuang marveled at their beauty, noting how long it had been since she had seen such a display. When Jin'an asked about her future plans, Li Shuang expressed her desire to take her father, Li Wei, home to Taijin for burial. Jin'an then asked if they would ever meet again, to which Li Shuang, avoiding a direct answer, simply told him he was drunk and should rest.
As Li Shuang prepared to depart, Jin'an saw her off, having prepared food for her long journey. Li Shuang quietly murmured her thanks, a "belated kindness." Jin'an made a final attempt to persuade her to stay in Yao State, offering to find her a residence and even mentioning the fireworks she admired. Li Shuang, however, cut him off, dismissing her drunken behavior and reiterating that with peace achieved, all past events should be left behind.
She heartbreakingly concluded that Jin'an was already dead and she should have realized it sooner. Jin'an then returned a hairpin to Li Shuang, stating it should go back to its owner now that she was leaving. Li Shuang stepped back, questioning the significance of keeping such an external object when their fate together had ended, and bid Prince Annan to take care. Meanwhile, Lu Xin and Mo Yin discussed their return to Wuling Mountain.
Lu Xin acknowledged Mo Yin's role as the mountain master and her reluctance to be selfish, stating she was just taking the opportunity to replenish her herbal stock. Lu Xin then pressed Li Shuang about her relationship with Jin'an, reminding her of their past vows to grow old together and wondering if it would be a shame not to try harder.
Li Shuang confirmed their deep love was real, but so was Jin'an's current amnesia, accepting it as fate's playful hand. Lu Xin offered to take away anything that might cause Li Shuang heartache, symbolically referring to the emotional ties. Li Shuang, however, asked for time to sever those intertwined and complicated ties, to which Lu Xin urged her to be decisive, like the general she once was.
As Lu Xin left, she attempted to reveal that Jin'an had regained his memories, but Li Shuang gently cut her off, urging her to go so Mo Yin wouldn't wait. Later, a servant delivered Pear-blossom Pastries, a favorite Li Shuang's, made by Jin'an, intended to be eaten while warm. As Li Shuang ate, she was flooded with Jin'an's past words from before his memory loss, about loving a Taijin woman and the impossibility of their union as Prince Annan.
Jin'an, amidst the burial of fallen warriors, solemnly declared that with his brother's return and Empress Dowager Qin's fall, the war was over and the people were safe. He pledged that from then on, the world would no longer know a warmongering Prince Annan, and he hoped for everlasting peace and prosperity for his people as he paid respects to the heroic warriors. Li Shuang returned to the Taijin palace, escorting her father, Li Wei's, remains.
Su Muyang, the Emperor, acknowledged Li Wei's sacrifice for the greater good and posthumously granted him the title of Duke of Loyalty and Courage. Li Shuang expressed her gratitude on her father's behalf. However, a courtier immediately interjected, demanding that while Li Wei's contributions were justly rewarded, Li Shuang's grave crimes warranted severe punishment from the Emperor.
Episode 37 Recap
The imperial court was in an uproar, with ministers vehemently demanding severe punishment for Li Shuang. They claimed she had been captured on the battlefield, which disgraced the state, and asserted she had colluded with the enemy. Su Muyang stepped forward to defend her, arguing that victory and defeat were common in war, and if defeat or capture were crimes, no one would dare to fight for their nation.
However, a minister retorted that it was Li Shuang who had allowed the enemy to escape, leading to the previous military disaster and the death of Grand General Li Wei in a foreign land, while she returned unharmed. The minister concluded that Li Shuang must have colluded with the Duan family of Yao State, a capital offense, and asked how Grand General Li Wei could rest in peace if such ill-intentioned people shattered the hard-won peace.
Su Muyang countered, reminding them that Duan Aodeng had aided him several times in Lucheng, and Li Shuang's campaign against Yao State was by his own order, subtly implying that their accusations of collusion could extend to him as well. Unfazed, a minister pointed out Su Muyang's childhood intimacy with General Li and his past desire to make her empress, suggesting he was now showing personal favoritism. Su Muyang sternly dismissed this as insolence.
Another minister then argued that Li Shuang was merely an orphan adopted by the Li family, and to prevent shame to the loyal Li family, she should not only be executed but also stripped of her surname and removed from the Li family genealogy. Li Shuang then entered the court, her eyes filled with sorrow.
She declared that since the day she entered the General's Residence, she had been a daughter of the Li family, a truth that would not change even in death. She chastised the ministers for daring to meddle in her family’s affairs. She had heard how, after her capture, these "rabble" had urged His Majesty to restart the war with Yao State, yet none had dared to answer the call to arms themselves.
She questioned if war, life, and death were such trivial matters to them, as long as they didn't personally concern them. Facing Su Muyang, she acknowledged her own mistake in letting Duan Aodeng go, admitting she had no defense and that her crimes were unforgivable. She offered her life to appease the public's anger and restore the Li family's honor, asking only that they remember the peace of that day was hard-won and should be cherished.
With these words, Li Shuang, daughter of Li Wei, requested death from His Majesty. Li Shuang was once again confined to prison. Her brother, Li Ting, pleaded at the palace gates until he was granted a brief visit. He immediately presented her with their father's command token, planning to mobilize Li Wei's troops to rescue her.
Li Shuang was furious, striking him and threatening to take her own life in prison if he dared to cause trouble, reminding him such an act would dishonor their father’s spirit and make both her and their father die with regrets. Li Ting broke down, pleading with her not to abandon him, just as their father had.
Li Shuang sternly forbade him from crying, reminding him of the Li family motto: "Loyalty, courage, and selflessness," explaining that these words were a guiding principle for making difficult choices. She praised his upright character, telling him that entrusting him with the Changfeng Army and the Li family was not an act of desperation, but an inevitable future.
She assured him he was not alone, with her, their father, the entire Li family, and the Changfeng Army as his strength and responsibility. Li Ting, understanding, promised to uphold the family's honor. Li Shuang, with tears in her eyes, entrusted the Li family to his care. Meanwhile, Jin'an, formerly Prince Annan, came to Duan Aoze to atone for his past actions.
He confessed to mistakenly killing his own soldiers during the war and releasing an enemy prisoner, considering these unforgivable crimes against the state and the crown. He requested to resign as Grand General of Cavalry, be stripped of his royal title, and removed from the imperial clan. Duan Aoze acknowledged that Jin'an had been controlled by treacherous people and that the soldiers he killed were conspirators. He also revealed that Li Shuang’s release had been with his tacit approval.
However, Jin'an insisted his hands were stained with the blood of his own people and that with peace restored between Taijin and Yao State, and Duan Aoze ruling wisely, there was no longer a need for Prince Annan. Duan Aoze expressed his deep relief at Jin'an's growth, though he wondered what Jin'an had endured in the past year. Jin'an recounted his time stranded in Taijin, experiencing both the separations of life and death and tasting bitter and sweet sorrows.
He revealed that Li Shuang had been his constant support, yet he had also briefly forgotten and deeply hurt her. Now that everything had settled and peace, Li Shuang’s wish, was achieved, he sought to shed his military uniform and all titles stained with his grievous sins, dedicating this act to her and to the world.
Seeing his brother’s resolve, Duan Aoze, though heavy-hearted, granted his wish, stripping Duan Aodeng of his princely title, removing him from the imperial clan, and demoting him to commoner status. Despite Jin'an's demotion, the ministers' anger was far from appeased. Su Muyang received a barrage of memorials demanding Li Shuang’s execution. He reluctantly decided it was time for General Li to embark on her final journey.
He took Li Shuang from prison to a quiet hall, where he had prepared her favorite dishes. Li Shuang gently declined, noting that with famine widespread from the Xiangshui flood and poor harvests, food should not be wasted on someone about to die. Su Muyang reminisced about their childhood, recalling their first meeting when he defended her from bullies, and how she taught him that only by always standing firm would he avoid being bullied.
He lamented that while all who had once slighted him had fallen, she, who could have stood by his side, was now facing death. He questioned her choice to seek death in court, arguing it had cut off her path to survival and was now forcing his hand amidst the public outcry. Li Shuang, however, declared she had no more attachments in this world after leading the army to defeat, losing her father, and Jin'an leaving her.
She believed only her death could preserve the Li family's honor and quell public anger. She urged Su Muyang, as a wise ruler, not to show favoritism, and asked only that he care for Li Ting after her death, reminding him that in Ting's heart, he remained the gentle and righteous Muyang. Su Muyang then asked if, in an ordinary life, without Jin'an, she would have stayed by his side.
Li Shuang replied that living life with "what ifs" was not enough, and what was missed was simply missed. After drinking the poison, Li Shuang reflected on her eventful life, acknowledging she had drawn mighty bows and slain formidable enemies. She died without regret or complaint, her last words a prayer for Taijin's enduring prosperity and a farewell to Su Muyang.
Su Muyang subsequently issued an imperial decree, publicly announcing Li Shuang's sudden death from illness and posthumously conferring upon her the title of Empress Wude, with her burial in the imperial mausoleum ten days later, to be proclaimed throughout the realm as a mark of his remembrance. After his demotion, Jin'an dismissed his royal staff and moved to a small, secluded house, finding contentment in a peaceful, if austere, life.
Duan Aoze visited him, relaying the news of Li Shuang's death in the palace, where she had proven her innocence, and her impending burial in the imperial mausoleum. Jin'an was devastated, unable to comprehend how she could die after he had believed he was protecting her by letting her go. Duan Aoze explained that rulers often faced impossible choices, and Li Shuang’s decision must have been a carefully weighed one.
Jin'an, however, was resolute, recognizing that Taijin's haste to announce her death was a trap designed to lure him. He declared that Li Shuang was his wife, to whom he had sworn to be together in life and death, and he could not abandon her a second time to remain in a cold underground palace.
Duan Aoze warned him that a royal burial would be heavily guarded, making any attempt to retrieve her futile and risking another war, which would betray the hard-won peace. Jin'an revealed his plan to go to Wuling Mountain to retrieve Jade Linglong, believing it would enable him to bring Li Shuang back. He then vowed to atone with his life upon her return, ensuring no new war would erupt.
Jin'an further reminded Duan Aoze of his own grief when his wife passed, and how he had envied Jin'an's freedom to choose death over the throne. Duan Aoze, seeing Jin'an’s unwavering determination, could only grant his wish, despite his own reluctance to see his only brother pursue such a perilous path. Jin'an swiftly journeyed to Wuling Mountain. Mo Yin, having anticipated his arrival, welcomed him. Jin'an immediately expressed his need for Jade Linglong to bring Li Shuang back.
Mo Yin replied that matters of life and death were beyond human control and could not be forced, as all things arose and perished by the law of cause and effect. Lu Xin then angrily confronted Jin'an, calling him insane.
She reminded him of the pain he had endured to retrieve Jade Linglong in the past and accused him of hypocrisy, questioning why he hadn't told Li Shuang of his recovered memories when he had the chance, and how his neglect had led to her tragic end. She declared she could not help him. Jin'an acknowledged his guilt towards Li Shuang but asserted that for her sake, he did not care about the risks.
He then knelt, swearing with his blood that if he could bring Li Shuang back, he would sacrifice his own life to ensure Jade Linglong was returned intact. Lu Xin, still skeptical, questioned his right to demand Wuling Mountain's most precious treasure. At that moment, Jin'an’s blood caused Jade Linglong to awaken, and he merged with it. Mo Yin, observing this, instructed to let Jin'an go, explaining to Lu Xin that Jin'an’s resolute determination was unstoppable. He admitted his surprise, having always believed Jade Linglong recognized its master by blood, but realizing now that it truly recognized the shadow puppet, concluding it must be fate.
Episode 38 (Ending) Recap
On the day of Li Shuang’s funeral, Jin'an arrived at the imperial mausoleum, confronting the guards who asked who he was and accused him of disrupting the Empress's funeral. Jin'an declared, "How can my beloved wife enter your imperial mausoleum?" He then approached Li Shuang's coffin, taking out a piece of candy and placing it in her hand, tearfully telling her to eat it secretly. He vowed to take her home.
Meanwhile, Su Muyang's advisor confirmed that His Majesty's trap was set to lure Duan Aodeng out to kill him. Observing the situation, the advisor noted that Jin'an must have regained his powers, making him impossible to defeat without a clever strategy, and advised Su Muyang not to worry about the deceased, as she was "ignorant and unaware." Su Muyang then ordered his archers to shoot, then personally advanced with his sword.
Jin'an was enraged, accusing Su Muyang of not only watching Li Shuang being forced to her death but also using her corpse as bait to lure him out. Su Muyang, as the ruler, defended his actions, stating that Li Shuang, as the posthumously honored Empress, served Taijin in life and death to eliminate threats. He countered that if Jin'an truly loved her, he wouldn't have left her for Su Muyang to protect. Jin'an retorted that Su Muyang betrayed her.
Su Muyang then countered by asking Jin'an, whom he addressed as Duan Aodeng, if he wasn't being too greedy by trying to take her away now. Su Muyang acknowledged his defeat, admitting he never expected Jin'an to go to such lengths to restore the Jade Linglong. He only hoped that after his death, Jin'an would not use the Jade Linglong's power to wage war and would grant the people of Taijin peace.
Jin'an, however, declared that he was no longer Prince Annan of Yao State and that worldly affairs were no longer his concern. He clarified that he had not come to kill Su Muyang, as it would only breed more hatred. He only wanted to take Li Shuang home. Su Muyang claimed that his own family had been eliminated, so no one would avenge him except Li Shuang.
Jin'an pointed out that Su Muyang had been a good emperor, caring for his people and achieving peace between the two states, a peace bought with Li Shuang's life, and he should safeguard it. Su Muyang then conceded, admitting that Jin'an loved Li Shuang more than he had imagined. An advisor questioned Su Muyang's decision to use the precious, heirloom Dream Powder on General Li, especially since everyone in Taijin wanted her dead.
Su Muyang insisted that he would not allow it, stating he owed Li Shuang too much and this was the only way to let her live. He then gave Jin'an an antidote, explaining that the Dream Powder made the user appear dead, but the antidote would awaken Li Shuang in three days. Jin'an immediately administered the antidote to Li Shuang. Jin'an questioned why Su Muyang set this trap if Li Shuang wasn't dead.
Su Muyang then revealed that his trap was a gamble, betting on Jin'an's deep love for Li Shuang, and knowing he would do everything to save her. As emperor, he had to carry the burden of the empire and its people, unable to devote his love solely to her, but Jin'an could. Jin'an then asked if Su Muyang wasn't afraid he would be killed by him, risking his life.
Su Muyang further confessed that his journey had been perilous, and while his hands were stained with blood, he never felt indebted to anyone except Li Shuang. Dying for her would leave him with no regrets. From that day forward, there would be no more Prince Annan, nor General Li, ensuring peace and alliance between Taijin and Yao State forever. Jin'an took Li Shuang home and watched over her for three days and nights without eating or sleeping.
On the third day, she still had not awakened. Lu Xin urged him to eat, warning that he would collapse before Li Shuang woke up. She worried if Li Shuang would ever regain consciousness, but clarified, attributing it to Mo Yin, that "three days" was just an estimate, and it was normal for the effects to last five to ten days depending on the individual's constitution.
Jin'an, however, declared that he could wait for Li Shuang, not just for days, but for years, decades, or even centuries, as he was bound to her for life. He explained that his bond was not due to the Jade Linglong, as even rare spiritual entities lack the ability to love; his love came from his heart.
Whether he was Jin'an or Duan Aodeng, with or without memories or the Jade Linglong, he would always irresistibly fall in love with her again and again. He even expressed no fear if she truly never woke, recalling their promise to be together in life and death. Jin'an eventually fell asleep, helped by calming medicine Lu Xin secretly put in his porridge. When he awoke, he found Li Shuang gone from the bed.
Rushing outside, he found her standing by a tree. However, she did not recognize him, cautiously backing away and asking who he was and why she was there, and if "Shuang" was her name. Jin'an paused, realizing it was his turn to experience the pain of being forgotten, as she had. He told her that as long as she was safe and healthy, he would be whoever she wanted him to be.
Li Shuang teased him further, jokingly calling him a "thug" who kidnapped her, or perhaps a fox spirit who gave her heart to a fallen hunter. Jin'an realized she remembered stories from biographies well, despite her amnesia. She then revealed it was all a ruse, a playful way to make him experience the "false alarm" and "lost and found" happiness that were the most cherished moments in stories, allowing him to understand the heartache she had once endured.
Three months later, Taijin experienced peace and tranquility under Emperor Su Muyang's rule, who issued new policies, reducing taxes and labor duties, fulfilling the shared dreams he and Li Shuang once held. Meanwhile, Mo Yin and Lu Xin discussed Jin'an's condition. Mo Yin confirmed that Jin'an was now no different from an ordinary person, with his shadow puppet and blood master fully merged. The Jade Linglong would now only serve to strengthen his health.
Mo Yin explained that his initial perception of the shadow puppet as an emotionless killing machine was changed by Jin'an's heart, which was full of love and kindness. Since the Jade Linglong had chosen Jin'an, it was almost impossible for anyone else to take it, so leaving it with him was acceptable. Lu Xin playfully suggested that if Mo Yin was so generous, he should give her the treasure-filled Wuling Mountain and let her be the "missus."
Mo Yin, blushing, agreed, saying everyone already treated her as the lady of the house anyway. In the Changfeng Army, Li Ting displayed the same fighting spirit as Li Wei and Li Shuang. Deputy General Ji Ran, like Li Shuang, remembered the name of every soldier, including new recruit Chang Huaisheng, and vowed to protect everything Li Shuang had left behind. Li Ting later found a box of Pear-blossom Pastries in his tent, realizing Li Shuang had visited.
Li Shuang, watching from a distance, was content to see Li Ting doing well. She explained to Jin'an that in the eyes of the world, she was dead, and she did not wish to disrupt this hard-won peace. She and Jin'an decided to retreat to the mountains, Jin'an promising to accompany her wherever she went, as he came for her and would leave with her. They found Ouyang Jun, who had adopted many orphans after Qiao'er's departure.
Li Shuang and Jin'an helped him care for the children, Ouyang Jun even suggested the children call him "uncle-in-law." Jin'an, playfully complaining that the children were being soothed but no one was soothing him, asked Li Shuang for a kiss to recharge his energy. Li Shuang initially refused, citing the children, but after ensuring they were all asleep, she secretly kissed him. When Ouyang Jun returned, Jin'an, overwhelmed by the energetic children, quickly took Li Shuang and departed. He confided that while the children were cute, he truly desired to have their own "little troublemaker" with Li Shuang.
