Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty Ⅲ: To Changan Recap, Plot, Synopsis

> Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty Ⅲ: To Changan

Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty Ⅲ: To Changan Synopsis

In the early golden age of the Tang Dynasty, Chang'an became a "chessboard" for various factions. The Tang Mystery team led by Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming( whether by choice or circumstance) threw themselves into the game, stirring the tides of power under the "encouragement" of the emperor and princess.

Within the walls of Chang'an, where "poetry and peril" coexisted, they once again upheld justice and virtue, unraveling supernatural mysteries to expose the hidden schemes lurking beneath.

Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty Ⅲ: To Changan Recap

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5
• 6
• 7
• 8
• 9
• 10
• 11
• 12
• 13
• 14
• 15
• 16
• 17
• 18
• 19
• 20
• 21
• 22
• 23
• 24
• 25
• 26
• 27
• 28
• 29
• 30
• 31
• 32
• 33
• 34
• 35
• 36
• 37
• 38
• 39
• 40

Episode 1 Recap

In the summer of the second year of the Xiantian era, Lu Lingfeng, Su Wuming, and their four companions were escorting golden peaches, a tribute from the Kang Kingdom, back to Chang'an. As they neared the city, Fei the Chicken Oracle complained about the strenuous journey, noting that Pei Xijun couldn't endure the constant jostling. Lu Lingfeng, however, insisted they press on to reach Chang'an before nightfall, emphasizing the importance of their mission.

Upon arriving at Weicheng Station, they were met by a stationmaster and several men in plain clothes, whom Chu Yingtao identified as likely Imperial Guards. Grand General of the Right Imperial Guard Lu Tong, also in plain clothes, then appeared and directed Lu Lingfeng to the backyard, stating that the honorable guest he was meant to meet was waiting there.

As Lu Lingfeng left with Lu Tong, Su Wuming quietly told Chu Yingtao that he had matters to attend to and would depart, asking her not to follow him. In the backyard, the Emperor stood by a balustrade. He recited a poem about the superiority of military service over scholarship, then pointedly remarked to Lu Lingfeng that he seemed to prefer leading men in battle to standing before the Emperor.

Lu Lingfeng, with composed reverence, reported that he had received eighteen cases of golden peaches in Shazhou Prefecture and had successfully escorted them. He explained that due to internal affairs, the Kang Kingdom's diplomatic mission could not accompany the tribute. He then presented the State Letter. The Emperor bid him rise and inquired about a second document.

Lu Lingfeng explained it was his personal account of his journey to the west, detailing observations on geography, local customs, the people's livelihoods, criticisms of governmental malpractices, and suggestions for improving public welfare. The Emperor, dismissing the State Letter due to the Kang Kingdom's breach of protocol, expressed interest in Lu Lingfeng’s own diligent work.

When Lu Lingfeng mentioned that the memorial was jointly submitted with Su Wuming, the Emperor questioned Su Wuming's right as a commoner to directly advise the court. Lu Lingfeng boldly defended him, stating that Su Wuming had risked his life for the Tang Empire and, as a Tang citizen, had every right to submit his counsel. The Emperor, noticing Lu Lingfeng's immediate defense of Su Wuming, commented that his "unbending nature" remained unchanged.

Meanwhile, the Grand Princess anxiously awaited Lu Lingfeng’s arrival outside the city. She questioned Chancellor Cui about the delay, wondering if Cen Zhi's intelligence was flawed. Chancellor Cui attempted to soothe her, suggesting she return to the city. Su Wuming then arrived, and Cen Zhi quickly led him to the Princess. Su Wuming greeted her, offering a compliment on her radiance.

When asked about Lu Lingfeng, Su Wuming reported that Lu Lingfeng had been extremely careful on the rough journey to prevent damage to the golden peaches, which had slowed them down. He stated that Lu Lingfeng would not reach Chang'an that day and had sent him to relay the message. The Grand Princess took this as a sign that her son knew she was waiting, attributing it to a "mother-son bond," which Su Wuming readily affirmed.

Chancellor Cui, upon seeing Su Wuming, expressed regret that he was still alive and voiced concerns about his own position as Chancellor. Shortly after, Cen Zhi delivered urgent news that the Emperor was privately meeting with Lu Lingfeng. Enraged, the Grand Princess accused Su Wuming of deception. Su Wuming maintained the truth of his earlier report. The Grand Princess then demanded to know why Lu Lingfeng was at Weicheng Station.

Su Wuming attempted to deflect by mentioning the station's famous cuisine, but the Grand Princess, seeing through his excuse, knew that the Emperor must be the one who had stopped Lu Lingfeng. She declared that, as a member of the Li imperial clan, she was more fitting to be Empress than Empress Wu had been, asserting that her ambition was for the good of the entire empire.

She then reminded Su Wuming of her past words: if he genuinely desired the well-being of the Tang Empire, he should assist her, promising that she would usher in a glorious era of prosperity for the people. The Emperor then dismissed his attendants and personally began to open a case of golden peaches. He then instructed Lu Tong and Lu Lingfeng to help open the remaining cases. Though Lu Lingfeng felt a flicker of suspicion, he complied.

From one of the peaches, the Emperor extracted a hidden leather map, intricately detailing mountains, royal courts, and strategic passes across the Western Regions. It was then that Lu Lingfeng fully grasped the true purpose of his mission. The Emperor explained that during Empress Wu's reign, various kingdoms and tribes in the Western Regions had formed alliances, frequently disrupting the Silk Road and cutting off east-west trade.

At that time, the Tang Empire was embroiled in internal conflicts and unable to intervene. While he was still the Crown Prince, he and Grand General Lu Tong had secretly devised a long-term strategy: to dispatch elite agents to infiltrate the Kang Kingdom, gather intelligence on the Western Regions, and relay information back to Chang'an, ultimately compiling this comprehensive map to safeguard the borders and ensure the Silk Road remained open.

However, due to continuous warfare in the Western Regions and widespread hostility towards the Tang, several attempts to transmit the map had failed. Finally, upon learning that the Kang Kingdom would resume tribute, they planned to embed the map within young golden peaches, cleverly disguised as imperial tribute. Lu Lingfeng expressed his profound admiration for the Emperor's foresight and unwavering dedication to the empire's strategic interests.

The Emperor then asked if Lu Lingfeng would choose to serve by his side or return to his post as sheriff in Yunding County. He acknowledged the rumors about Lu Lingfeng’s background, stating that while they mattered, they also did not, and asked for Lu Lingfeng’s own feelings on the matter. Lu Lingfeng remained silent. Not wishing to press him, the Emperor suggested they drink and ordered Attendant Laifu to prepare wine.

Unbeknownst to the Emperor, Laifu, acting on the instructions of Attendant Yang Xu, had already poisoned the wine, intending to prevent Lu Lingfeng from ever reaching Chang'an. Before the wine was served, Lu Lingfeng directly asked the Emperor if he had ever intended to take his life.

He recounted two assassination attempts in Shiyang County during his journey west: one by men sent by Grand General Lu Tong, whose target was actually Su Wuming, and another by a highly trained group employing poisoned arrows, clearly not affiliated with Lu Tong. He also mentioned an incident at Mojia Inn, where he almost died at the hands of bounty hunters who carried assassination orders written on stationery exclusive to the Eastern Palace.

Noticing Laifu's agitation, the Emperor discreetly sent him away to wash golden peaches. He then admitted that Bai Shan was responsible for the second assassination attempt, explaining that Bai Shan, seeking to eliminate perceived threats to the Emperor during his lifetime, had targeted Lu Lingfeng. The Emperor acknowledged that Bai Shan had been a loyal official but urged Lu Lingfeng, given his noble lineage, to show magnanimity towards the deceased's misguided actions.

The Emperor then revealed that Bai Shan had passed away two months prior and symbolically "punished" his misguided actions by drinking a cup of wine. Meanwhile, Fei the Chicken Oracle, captivated by Chang'an's reputation, attempted to compose a poem but struggled to find the words. Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao spoke of Chang'an as a city where poets flourished, and Xue Huan expressed how deeply their words stirred him. They all toasted together.

Back with the Emperor, he recalled fondly tasting golden peaches at the Grand Princess's mansion in his youth. Lu Lingfeng initially demurred, seeing them as tribute, but the Emperor insisted his efforts in escorting them earned him the right. Lu Lingfeng then requested some for his companions, and the Emperor readily granted three peaches for them to share. As they ate, a fearsome giant bird suddenly swooped down, directly attacking the Emperor.

Lu Lingfeng and Lu Tong immediately moved to shield His Majesty. The bird was vicious, its claws tearing as a broken arrow pierced Lu Tong's right eye. As Lu Lingfeng struggled alone, Fei the Chicken Oracle and Xue Huan rushed to their aid. Xue Huan quickly provided a spear to Lu Lingfeng, and together they confronted the creature. To his shock, Lu Lingfeng recognized the attacker as Liu XVII.

With a provocative smirk, Liu XVII flapped his wings and vanished into the night. The Emperor, desperate to save his Grand General, implored Fei the Chicken Oracle, identifying him as a disciple of the esteemed Medicine King. He offered Fei any official position or a lavish reward in gold if he could save Lu Tong's eye. Fei, however, regretfully informed him that while he could save Lu Tong’s life, the eye was beyond saving, even for his late master.

He requested immediate permission to operate to secure Lu Tong's life. Lu Lingfeng, recalling Fei's divine medical skills, vouched for him. Trusting this, the Emperor granted Fei permission, even bowing in entreaty. Fei diligently performed the surgery, successfully saving Lu Tong’s life, but as predicted, his right eye was lost.

Su Wuming was astonished to learn that Liu XVII was alive and the attacker, finding it hard to reconcile with his supposed execution and the Liu brothers' known lack of martial prowess. He repeatedly suggested that Lu Lingfeng might have been mistaken in the chaos, but Lu Lingfeng vehemently stood by his identification.

Given the critical situation with the Emperor still at Weicheng Station and Lu Tong severely wounded, Su Wuming volunteered to travel to Gantang County to investigate the Liu brothers, reasoning that his unofficial status made him more suited for this task, while Lu Lingfeng should remain to protect the Emperor and pursue leads on the bird attack. Before departing, Su Wuming sternly cautioned Lu Lingfeng to seal Weicheng Station for the night and admit no one, emphasizing "no one."

Soon after, General of Loyalty and Valor Li Feng arrived with his troops, declaring his intent to protect the Emperor. When one of Li Feng's subordinates questioned Lu Lingfeng's authority as a mere county sheriff from Yunding County, a sentiment Li Feng himself echoed with curiosity, Lu Lingfeng presented an Imperial Guard gold token, confirming his official standing. Li Feng accepted this and agreed to establish a defensive perimeter outside the station.

Meanwhile, on his way to Gantang, Su Wuming was intercepted by a group of black-clad assailants who questioned him about his name, "Wuming" ('no name'), and the "noble guest" at the station. Fortunately, Chu Yingtao arrived just in time to assist him in escaping. Elsewhere, Liu XVII confronted the owner of a paper effigy shop, who feared being implicated and intended to avoid trouble. Liu XVII then mercilessly killed the owner with a single strike of a broadsword.

Later, Liu XVII met with a masked man. Initially, Liu XVII suspected the masked man wanted to kill him, but the man quickly dispelled his doubts by pointing out that killing Liu XVII would hinder their shared "grand design." Liu XVII admitted his mistake in doubting the masked man and in killing the shop owner, and they reaffirmed their need to work together to complete their unfinished great undertaking.

The following morning, Du Ming, Chief Administrator of Yongzhou, and Judicial Official Wu Wenbin met the Emperor. They reported that local records contained no prior instances of fierce birds attacking people within Yongzhou Prefecture. The Emperor surmised that the raptor must have originated from outside the city and instructed the Yongzhou government to swiftly investigate and capture it to prevent further harm to the populace.

Du Ming pledged to investigate immediately after escorting the Emperor back to the capital, but the Emperor assigned General Li Feng to the escort, noting that Lu Tong's severe injuries required him to travel by carriage, and the golden peaches also needed specialized transport. Lu Lingfeng offered his assistance in investigating the raptor case, citing his previous encounters with the creatures, but Du Ming politely declined, explaining that official regulations would prevent Lu Lingfeng from interfering.

Nevertheless, Du Ming expressed his profound personal respect for Lu Lingfeng and promised to consult him as needed. En route back to the palace, the Emperor conversed with Li Feng, who revealed that his military career had been stagnated for years due to an offense against the Grand Princess. Meanwhile, Attendant Yang Xu awaited the Emperor at the palace.

He questioned Laifu's trembling before the bird attack, suggesting it was not from fear of the creature itself, and implicitly inquired about who had hired the bounty hunters to assassinate Lu Lingfeng. Yang Xu then posited that the Grand Princess might be connected to the raptor attack, drawing parallels to Empress Wu's use of "anomalous talents" who could construct flying machines, like Shasi.

He pointed out that the bird-man had specifically targeted the Emperor and Lu Tong while conspicuously avoiding Lu Lingfeng, implying this was a deliberate act by the Grand Princess to elevate Lu Lingfeng's standing while harming her rivals. Separately, the Grand Princess, upon learning of Lu Tong's lost eye and the resulting vacancy for the Grand General of the Right Imperial Guard, swiftly resolved to appoint a trusted confidant to the position.

Judicial Official Wu Wenbin began his investigation into the murder of the paper effigy shop owner. The primary suspect was a newly hired assistant who had since disappeared. After obtaining a description of the assistant from the landlord, Wu Wenbin decided against commissioning a portrait and initiating a city-wide manhunt, believing it would only alert the suspect and hinder their investigation.

Episode 2 Recap

"""[Recap]""" Upon regaining consciousness, Grand General Lu Tong summoned Lu Lingfeng. Lu Tong tested Lu Lingfeng’s resolve, and Lu Lingfeng firmly stated that he would never let personal grievances interfere with public duty or harbor resentment towards the Emperor. His loyalty remained steadfast to the Tang Empire. Satisfied, Lu Tong, despite his injuries, declared his intention to immediately recommend Lu Lingfeng as his successor for the Grand General of the Right Imperial Guard.

Meanwhile, outside, Fei Yingjun, also known as Master Ji, was enjoying some golden peaches. He was suddenly attacked by a giant raptor and fell, sustaining multiple fractures to his ribs and leg bones. Though severely injured, he was not fatally wounded. During the attack, he managed to pluck a feather from the raptor, intending it for Lu Lingfeng to examine. When Lu Lingfeng arrived, he found Fei Yingjun being tended to by Xijun.

Fei Yingjun admitted to eating the peaches, explaining he assumed Lu Lingfeng and the Emperor had already partaken and couldn't resist the exquisite taste of the "tribute from the Kang Kingdom." He even blamed the peaches for his greed. However, Xijun's observation that "they've all had the peaches" sparked a realization in Lu Lingfeng.

Connecting the attack on Fei Yingjun to the Emperor's prior incident and his own near miss, Lu Lingfeng deduced that the raptor specifically targeted those who had recently consumed the golden peaches. He rushed to the palace to warn the Emperor. The Emperor confirmed he had not yet eaten the peaches but revealed that, as per custom, the tribute golden peaches had already been distributed to the Retired Emperor, the Grand Princess, and various high-ranking officials and nobles.

Lu Lingfeng urged the Emperor to recall all the peaches. The Emperor decided to personally warn the Retired Emperor, while Lu Lingfeng hurried to the Grand Princess's mansion. At her mansion, the Grand Princess was already enjoying a golden peach, reminiscing about tasting them as a child during Emperor Gaozong's grand fruit banquet, where she was praised and hinted to be a future ruler. Lu Lingfeng arrived and desperately pleaded with her not to eat the peaches, explaining the danger.

She dismissed his concerns as naive and easily manipulated, believing the story of the raptor was a fabrication by the Emperor's inner circle to mislead him. Defiantly, she ordered a grand "golden peach banquet" to be held in her back garden. Upon learning of this, the Emperor expressed concern for his aunt, who was known to love peaches, fearing Lu Lingfeng wouldn't be able to dissuade her.

Lu Lingfeng, despite her dismissiveness, discreetly ordered Cen Zhi to place guards with strong bows and arrows around the mansion to defend against aerial attacks. During the lavish banquet, the Grand Princess openly enjoyed the peaches and even distributed them along with fine wine to her soldiers. She expressed her filial appreciation to Lu Lingfeng for his concern, but reiterated her disbelief in his warnings, claiming that no "fierce bird or evil bird" would dare enter her residence.

She asserted her conviction that only she could lead the Tang Empire to glory, hinting at her ambition to become an empress, just like her father, mother, brothers, and nephew had been emperors. Looking directly at Lu Lingfeng, she praised his talents and selfless nature, offering to pass the Tang Empire to him in the future if he adopted her surname, Li. Chancellor Cui and Cen Zhi departed after the banquet.

The entire event passed without any sign of the raptor. Later that night, as Cen Zhi was returning home from the banquet, he was ambushed by the giant raptor. The creature's sharp talons brutally tore at him, lifting him into the air and repeatedly dropping him until he was disemboweled and died.

A eunuch reported Cen Zhi's gruesome death to the Emperor, noting that Cen Zhi was the only one attacked after leaving the Princess's residence, implying the bird was controlled by the Princess's Mansion and wouldn't attack on its own grounds. The Emperor, however, dismissed this as "nonsense," refusing to believe the Grand Princess would resort to such methods.

When the Grand Princess learned of Cen Zhi's death, she was enraged, believing the Emperor had forced him to betray her by holding his family hostage. She tested Chancellor Cui's loyalty, who swore his unwavering allegiance and dedication to her ambition of becoming a new empress to lead a stronger Tang Empire. The Grand Princess promised not to disappoint him.

Meanwhile, a masked man (the Ever-changing Master) questioned Liu XVII, asking why the giant raptor had not been deployed at the Grand Princess's golden peach banquet. Liu XVII claimed the raptor was wild and difficult to control, refusing to be driven. He then assured the masked man that he would personally infiltrate the Princess's residence to complete their unfinished plan.

In Gantang County prison, Liu XIX, in a fit of rage, attempted to harm a jailer but was quickly subdued by Chu Yingtao and Su Wuming. Su Wuming learned from Sheriff Xu that Liu XIX had been on a hunger strike and behaving erratically ever since his twin brother, Liu XVII, was executed. Surprisingly, their other brother, Liu XVIII, appeared indifferent to Liu XIX's plight, even helping distribute food to other prisoners. Su Wuming confronted Liu XVIII, chastising his callousness.

He explained that Liu XIX's madness stemmed from the profound grief of losing his twin, a basic human emotion. Su Wuming urged Liu XVIII to recognize that as Liu XIX's last remaining family, his indifference was slowly killing his brother. Recalling Master Di Renjie's resilience in the face of despair, Su Wuming emphasized the importance of survival, telling Liu XVIII, "Only by staying alive can you live better."

Moved by these words, Liu XVIII repeated the phrase, growing louder with each repetition, until Liu XIX responded in kind, and the two brothers reconciled with an embrace. The following day, Su Wuming and Sheriff Xu proceeded to open Liu XVII's coffin, which was part of Sheriff Xu's new initiative to bury executed criminals with dignity. To their horror, they discovered a headless body inside. Mr. Ma, the officer responsible for the burial, was terrified and confessed.

He admitted that he was deeply indebted to gambling debts and had sold Liu XVII's head to an "yin-yang merchant" known as the Ever-changing Master. Simultaneously, in Chang'an, a merchant named Mr. Qu, infatuated with a dancer, was enticed by the Ever-changing Master to kill the dancer and take her face to transplant onto his own wife. The dancer was subsequently murdered.

Soon after, rumors began to circulate throughout Chang'an that the current Emperor was not the legitimate eldest son of the Retired Emperor and was therefore unfit to rule the Tang Empire. The Grand Princess was greatly pleased by these developments. She remarked to Chancellor Cui that even if Lu Tong, now a broken man, retained the seal of the Grand General of the Right Imperial Guard, his military authority was effectively meaningless.

The Emperor visited Lu Tong, who was still recovering from his injuries. Lu Tong once again recommended Lu Lingfeng for the Grand General position. However, the Emperor refused, stating that the position was too crucial to be filled hastily, as any premature move could lead to unforeseen complications. Lu Tong then pleaded for Lu Lingfeng's original official rank to be restored, allowing him to temporarily command the Imperial Guards as a Middle Commander.

The Emperor again denied the request, instead appointing General Li Feng to temporarily take charge of the military power until Lu Tong fully recovered. Lu Lingfeng, who was standing just outside the door, overheard the entire conversation and quietly departed.

Episode 3 Recap

Lu Lingfeng returned with a somber expression, leading Su Wuming to understand his mood without needing to ask. Su Wuming then focused his attention on a bird feather. He identified it as belonging to a "Flame Crow," a fierce bird from the mythical Crow's Cry Kingdom, said to exist between the human and netherworlds.

According to legend, a massive tree, hundreds of li in circumference, stands at the kingdom's center, home to millions of fierce birds, with the Flame Crow as their leader. Lu Lingfeng dismissed the legend as superstitious, but Su Wuming clarified that the Flame Crow is a real bird, the national bird of Amono, a Western Region country destroyed during Emperor Gaozong's reign.

He explained that these birds have an exceptionally keen sense of smell, prefer sweet foods, and despite their fierce appearance, there are no records of them eating humans. From his sickbed, Fei Ji Shi interjected, asking if Liu XVII's face had truly been peeled off, which Chu Yingtao confirmed. Chu Yingtao condemned these "yin-yang merchants" as despicable individuals who trade in human hair, skin, and bones, deserving "death by a thousand cuts."

Fei Ji Shi's eyes narrowed, suggesting he knew more about her past. Lu Lingfeng suspected the Flame Crow's owner was hiding near Weicheng Station and that the masked assailant who ambushed Su Wuming, wielding a rare phoenix-winged gold halberd, needed to be identified. He declared his intention to investigate personally.

Su Wuming, however, urged him to return to his assigned duty of protecting Lu Tong at the Grand General's Mansion, arguing that Lu Lingfeng was risking entanglement in court politics, a dangerous taboo. Su Wuming insisted he would handle the case, emphasizing that only by uncovering the truth could the misunderstanding between the Emperor and the Princess be resolved, and Lu Lingfeng's reputation cleared. Lu Lingfeng countered that as a commoner, Su Wuming lacked the authority to investigate.

Su Wuming argued that Lu Lingfeng's own involvement would only deepen the Emperor's suspicion, reiterating his plea for him to stay out of the case. Unable to officially investigate as a commoner, Su Wuming first sought out Du Ming, Yongzhou's Chief Administrator. Su Wuming hinted that Du Ming's perceived loyalty to the Retired Emperor, due to his past service in Prince Xiang's Mansion, put him in a precarious position with the current Emperor.

Du Ming, however, refused to cooperate, expressing reluctance to offend either the Emperor or the Princess. He also suggested that the case was too transparent, pointing out that Cen Zhi died outside the Princess's Mansion after eating the golden peach, while those who stayed inside were unharmed, and the raptor never attacked Lu Lingfeng at Weicheng Station.

He questioned whether he should investigate the Princess or Lu Lingfeng, believing the Emperor already knew everything and dismissed Su Wuming, telling him not to cause more trouble. Undeterred, Su Wuming went directly to the Princess, who complained about the Emperor's decision to assign Lu Lingfeng to guard a blind man, viewing it as a slight against her.

Su Wuming then presented his case: Cen Zhi, her subordinate, was killed by the raptor after eating the golden peach and leaving her mansion, yet the Princess showed no concern, which reflected poorly on her. The Princess, initially dismissing it, mentioned Cen Zhi's loyalty and her failed attempts to find his family for compensation. She offered Su Wuming a golden peach, which he refused, fearing a similar fate to Cen Zhi.

He emphasized that if he died, no one would be left to clear Lu Lingfeng's name. Su Wuming connected the golden peaches, which Lu Lingfeng escorted from the Kang Kingdom, to the Western Region raptor. He argued that Lu Lingfeng's swift action in reporting the danger and protecting the Princess, contrasted with her prolonged banquets and continued safety, made him a prime suspect in the Emperor's eyes.

Su Wuming warned that Lu Lingfeng's life was on the line and he would be framed unless the truth was uncovered. Angered, the Princess initially offered him the high position of Chief Justice. Su Wuming declined the lofty post, citing the procedural delays it would entail, which would jeopardize the urgent investigation. He highlighted Yongzhou Prefecture's lack of progress, implicitly criticizing Du Ming's competence.

Convinced, the Princess appointed Su Wuming as the Criminal Investigation Scholar of Yongzhou Prefecture, a new, special position to oversee the raptor attacks, promising to inform the Retired Emperor. Now with official status, Su Wuming immediately asked the Princess if the raptor was "truly not raised by you," implying a connection to her mansion, given Chancellor Cui's safety after eating the peach there. The Princess again demanded he kneel. Upon receiving the Princess's official decree, Du Ming grudgingly complied.

He declared Su Wuming's new role a "temporary acting virtual position" and refused to provide a salary, explaining this was his "stance for those higher-up to see." He then summoned Judicial Official Wu Wenbin to report on current leads. Wu Wenbin, familiar with Su Wuming's reputation as Master Di's disciple, pledged full cooperation. Su Wuming inquired about recent cases of missing persons or faces being peeled off.

Wu Wenbin confirmed a recent murder matching the latter description and led Su Wuming and Chu Yingtao to inspect the dancer's body. Su Wuming meticulously noted that the skin above the neck and below the scalp had been peeled off cleanly, suggesting it was done while the victim was still alive, indicating an experienced perpetrator. Wu Wenbin, however, dismissed the victim as a "frivolous and loose woman," suggesting a crime of passion, despite her two known lovers having alibis.

His casual attitude infuriated Chu Yingtao, who, disguised as Su Wuming's attendant, chastised him for disrespecting a Tang citizen. Su Wuming intervened, agreeing with Yingtao, asserting that all victims, regardless of their background, deserve equal investigative effort for justice to prevail. Su Wuming proceeded to the dancer's secluded residence in Pingkang District. Pei Xijun, summoned to the scene, skillfully sketched the dancer's likeness based on witness descriptions, with a neighbor confirming its striking accuracy, especially her seductive gaze.

Suddenly, Wu Wenbin spotted three suspicious figures outside, gave chase, and apprehended them. As he prepared to strike, Su Wuming intervened, identifying the men as his old acquaintances and the renowned "Three Great Constables of Chang'an County: Jia, Luo, and Liu." Wu Wenbin, unfamiliar with them due to his recent transfer, was told by Su Wuming about their past heroic contributions to major cases.

The constables explained they were in plain clothes because they were visiting Su Wuming in an area outside Chang'an's jurisdiction, and given Su Wuming's history of offending powerful people, caution was necessary. After the misunderstanding was cleared, Wu Wenbin departed. The constables expressed their joy at Su Wuming's new official post, and he entrusted them with the task of finding anyone resembling the dancer's portrait.

Soon after, the three constables' informants discovered unusual activity at the residence of a merchant named Qu. His wife, previously known for her unsightly appearance and reclusiveness, had recently been hosting lavish banquets, charming guests with her newfound beauty, singing, and dancing, whom neighbors remarked looked identical to the dancer in the portrait. Concealed in the rafters, Chu Yingtao overheard a conversation between Qu and his wife.

The wife complained of discomfort from her face and wanted to remove it, but Qu implored her not to, revealing he had purchased it for three gold cakes. She questioned if he loved her or the face itself, which he dismissed, preferring to "enjoy ourselves." At that moment, the constables burst in, apprehending Qu, who, mistaking them for robbers, offered them money. They identified themselves and revealed his wife had confessed.

Qu denied the murder, claiming he bought the face from an unnamed "yin-yang merchant" and had seen his face. Su Wuming ordered Qu's transfer to Yongzhou Prison and instructed Xijun to create a portrait of the merchant based on Qu's description. Meanwhile, the yin-yang merchant presented several face masks to an individual referred to as the "bird man," urging him to replace his current face, which was Liu XVII's.

The "bird man" adamantly refused, declaring his affection for the current face and his refusal to be "anyone's slave" and to "master my own fate." The yin-yang merchant tried to persuade him, mentioning the "financial backer" who commissioned him. Pei Xijun completed the yin-yang merchant's portrait, noting that while he possessed many faces, the one drawn was his primary guise.

After showing the portrait around without success, Su Wuming correctly deduced that such a person likely resided in the Ghost Market. He then took the portrait to Fei Ji Shi, who instantly recognized the man as "the Ever-changing Gentleman," a notorious figure in the Ghost Market's dark trade, whose face Fei Ji Shi would "never forget." Su Wuming, Chu Yingtao (disguised as his niece), and Wu Wenbin planned their operation.

Wu Wenbin, already familiar with the Ghost Market, confirmed the Ever-changing Gentleman's hideout was behind Yin Mountain, next to the Earth God Temple, and that informants reported he had not left. Wu Wenbin inquired if the yin-yang merchant was connected to the Emperor's attack at Weicheng Station, to which Su Wuming responded, "it is hard to say right now."

Arriving at the Earth God Temple, Su Wuming proposed a "diplomacy before force" approach, with him and Chu Yingtao entering first, disguised as an uncle and niece seeking a new face for the "niece" after a fire, offering three gold cakes. Wu Wenbin was to wait outside as backup. Inside, the Ever-changing Gentleman displayed his collection of human skin masks.

When Chu Yingtao expressed disgust, mentioning rumors of faces peeled from the dead, the Ever-changing Gentleman casually admitted that the high price was because the faces were "skinned alive," which was "no easy task." Enraged, Chu Yingtao lost her composure, called him a "beast" and lunged, but Su Wuming restrained her. Su Wuming questioned the Ever-changing Gentleman about selling the dancer's face, but he claimed to have handled "too many to remember."

As Wu Wenbin and his men moved in to apprehend him, the Flame Crow suddenly descended, snatching Su Wuming and flying away. In the ensuing chaos, the Ever-changing Gentleman escaped. Lu Lingfeng, learning of Su Wuming's abduction from Pei Xijun, immediately rushed to Yongzhou Prefecture. Finding all leads gone, he decided to launch his own investigation, starting directly from the Ghost Market. He instructed Xijun to stay and care for Fei Ji Shi while he led the others to the Ghost Market.

Episode 4 Recap

Lu Lingfeng led his team into the night market to investigate and found a unique feather with a fresh green leaf attached to its quill. Fei Jishi examined the leaf, noting its color and veins, concluding that it was a rare type of Solomon's Seal that could only grow high up on Mount Zhongnan. Meanwhile, Su Wuming awoke in a secluded courtyard on Mount Zhongnan.

He was startled to see a massive Flame Crow, entirely bird-like, standing before him, unlike the previous half-human, half-bird creature that abducted him. Shortly after, the bird-man, wearing the face of Liu XVII, appeared, claiming to be an old acquaintance and tempting Su Wuming with golden peaches. Su Wuming quickly realized he was intended to be bait for the bird and calmly placed the peaches back on the plate.

He recognized that the face did not belong to the bird-man, remembering the original owner's evil voice. The bird-man, expressing how he was "worse off than a dog" in the past, urged Su Wuming to eat, but Su Wuming refused. Lu Lingfeng and his group returned to the station, where they found Pei Xijun still working by candlelight, having completed a detailed map of Mount Zhongnan. Their examination of the map revealed that only the royal villas remained unsearched.

Lu Lingfeng then approached Grand General Lu Tong, requesting permission to search these villas. Lu Tong sternly refused, advising Lu Lingfeng to abandon the search for Su Wuming in order to regain the Emperor's trust. Lu Tong also emphasized the dangers, warning that involvement in the case could lead to severe consequences, even death. Reflecting on Su Wuming's earlier accurate deductions, Lu Lingfeng understood the intricate and perilous nature of imperial power struggles.

Despite this, his resolve to rescue Su Wuming was unyielding. He removed his broadsword, presenting it to Lu Tong with the blade facing inward, a gesture of absolute submission to whatever fate awaited him if he could not save his friend.

Moved by Lu Lingfeng's determination, Lu Tong sighed and revealed the truth: the three largest royal villas were allocated to the Emperor, the Princess, and the Retired Emperor, respectively, and even he, as Grand General, lacked the authority to order a search of these grounds. Later that night, Lu Lingfeng sought an audience with the Princess, his mother. He gravely requested her permission to search her royal villa.

The Princess was initially disappointed and furious, believing her own son was implicating her and intending to order him to be expelled. However, Lu Lingfeng addressed her as "Mother" and explained that a thorough investigation was the only way to establish her innocence, arguing that he had reason to suspect anyone, including her, until the true culprit was found and Su Wuming rescued. Impressed by his courage and meticulous reasoning, the Princess's anger turned to admiration.

She promptly ordered her villa to be fully opened for search and all her staff to comply with Lu Lingfeng's commands. She also provided him with all her remaining golden peaches and excellent wine. Meanwhile, Liu, one of the three constables, found Lu Lingfeng and disclosed that the bird-man's facial features resembled those of the paper effigy shop assistant. Combining this with other clues, Lu Lingfeng suspected that Wu Wenbin might be a descendant of the Wu clan.

When Lu Lingfeng visited, Wu Wenbin openly acknowledged their distant kinship through Empress Wu, expressing hopes for future mutual support. Seizing the opportunity, Lu Lingfeng used the pretext of mourning Cen Zhi, Commander of the Princess's Guard, to personally examine Cen Zhi's body. The following morning, Lu Lingfeng, accompanied by Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao, headed to the royal villa. He explicitly instructed Xue Huan to stay at the station and look after Fei Jishi.

Xue Huan, confused by the order, was enlightened by Fei Jishi, who explained that Lu Lingfeng was deliberately protecting him. Fei Jishi warned that entering the royal forbidden grounds was fraught with danger; even a minor misstep could lead to charges of treason. Lu Lingfeng did not want young Xue Huan to risk his life. At the Princess's royal villa, golden peaches were laid out, and the aroma of wine filled the air.

Lu Lingfeng and his companions used the peaches and wine as bait, patiently waiting for the Flame Crow. As the sweet scent spread, the Flame Crow soared through the sky and descended rapidly towards their location. The bird-man, realizing the trap, rushed to intervene. However, Lu Lingfeng had prepared for this, using a knockout drug hidden in the peaches. Both the bird-man and the Flame Crow were successfully captured, and Su Wuming was safely rescued from the Retired Emperor's villa.

Su Wuming later explained that he had deduced his location by recognizing the cold mountain air, the old but luxurious architecture, and his dizziness from the high altitude, which matched the description of Empress Wu's former villa, later given to the Retired Emperor. After the successful rescue, Su Wuming addressed the bird-man's confusion by explaining how he deduced their whereabouts and revealed the bird-man's true identity as Lie Na, the young prince of the Amono Kingdom.

Su Wuming recounted that during Emperor Gaozong's reign, Amono, a kingdom known for birds, was destroyed by the Great Tang after it provoked and invaded their borders. Lie Na, still a child, was captured and brought to Chang'an as a slave. When Deposed Queen Wei first became Crown Princess, she developed a passion for birds.

Knowing Amono's reputation, she forced young Lie Na to care for her birds and ordered craftsmen to create a bird-shaped mask, which she made him wear at all times, preventing him from showing his true face. As Lie Na grew, his facial bones gradually conformed to the mask, eventually taking on a bird-like appearance. Outsiders came to call him "Bird Slave."

Years later, when Emperor Zhongzong returned to the Eastern Palace, the aged Di Renjie, accompanied by a young Su Wuming, visited. Su Wuming personally witnessed Deposed Queen Wei's brutal torture of the Bird Slave for a minor mistake, an unforgettable scene that allowed him to recognize Lie Na's tragic past and identity. Lie Na did not deny the story.

He confided that six years prior, he had returned to Amono only to find his homeland devastated and the Flame Crow, their national bird, nearly extinct. He had only managed to save one young chick, which became his constant companion and his only friend. Later, Lie Na learned that the Kang Kingdom planned to resume its tribute of golden peaches to the Tang Empire.

This inspired an idea: he would use the golden peaches to train his Flame Crow to specifically target and attack those who had betrayed Amono. With the help of old retainers and the former Amono National Teacher, he developed large, mechanically controlled wings to enable his own flight. With preparations complete, he returned to Chang'an. Su Wuming then explained why the Princess remained unharmed despite eating the golden peaches.

He revealed that the Princess had once shown kindness to Lie Na, saving him from having his tongue cut out by Deposed Queen Wei and later granting him freedom by removing his slave status. To repay this debt of gratitude, Lie Na had secretly sent a note to the Princess beforehand, instructing her to remain within her mansion. Consequently, the Flame Crow never attacked the Princess's residence.

Seeing that Lie Na still possessed a sense of honor and gratitude, Su Wuming urged him to disclose the identity of his accomplice. Lie Na stated that the individual always wore a mask, and their only agreement was to jointly assassinate the Emperor, the Princess, and the Retired Emperor. Lie Na also clarified that the Retired Emperor's villa, where he was hiding, was always empty.

Lu Lingfeng deduced from this that the masked conspirator must have been intimately familiar with the old passages of the Eastern Palace, making members of the Li or Wu imperial clans the most likely suspects.

Episode 5 Recap

Palace maid Yin presented the Emperor with gastrodia powder, which brought him a sense of peace. The Emperor and Yin then reminisced about their past. The Emperor recalled being nine years old, gravely ill and neglected by his father in the Eastern Capital, until his aunt, the Grand Princess, took him in. He remembered Yin as a comforting, chubby presence in whose arms he slept soundly, free from nightmares.

He mused on how he was just a child back then, and now stood as the Emperor of the Tang Empire. Yin noted she too had grown old. A courtier soon reported to the Emperor that Lu Lingfeng had committed treason by mobilizing troops without authorization, invading imperial forbidden grounds, and detaining imperial guards, recommending execution. At that moment, a messenger from the Grand Princess’s mansion, Su Wuming, requested an audience.

Despite the courtier's disdain for Su Wuming's lack of official standing (his Criminal Investigation Scholar title being void after the raptor case was "solved after a fashion"), the Emperor allowed him in. Su Wuming initially dodged the Emperor's questions about the raptor case and the treason, instead frivolously inquiring if the Emperor had more golden peaches from the Kang Kingdom to send to the Grand Princess, as her supply was depleted.

Enraged, the Emperor ordered Su Wuming to be flogged to death. Su Wuming then asked if Lu Lingfeng would be pardoned for his actions if he died. The Emperor, intrigued, halted the execution and questioned if Su Wuming was risking his life to save Lu Lingfeng. Su Wuming declared that death held no terror for him and offered to explain the entire raptor case if the Emperor would permit it, stating he would die a worthy death.

The Emperor commanded him to speak. The events that unfolded were part of the elaborate plan Su Wuming was about to reveal. During this time, Lu Lingfeng, accompanied by Chu Yingtao, visited a military camp to observe training. There, he engaged in a sparring match with a general, sustaining a minor injury.

When the general inquired about his presence, Lu Lingfeng explained he was there by imperial decree to check on the camp’s training on behalf of Grand General Lu Tong. Lu Lingfeng noted the camp seemed deserted, and the general stated their drills were conducted in the nearby hills, promising a formal welcome upon Lu Lingfeng's next visit. Chu Yingtao, observing the general's fighting style, found it familiar and discreetly warned Lu Lingfeng.

Later that night, as part of the scheme, the Grand Princess hosted another golden peach banquet at her mansion. During the feast, the terrifying shriek of a Flame Crow echoed across Chang'an, and citizens witnessed a giant raptor soaring through the night sky, heading directly towards the Princess’s residence. Immediately after, the Grand Princess feigned an assassination, appearing to have died in the attack.

News of the Grand Princess's apparent assassination quickly spread throughout the palace and beyond, causing widespread panic. Believing the time was ripe, Li Feng immediately rallied his troops, declaring that the Princess's death had plunged Chang'an into chaos, and it was their moment to establish a new dynasty. When some soldiers expressed confusion, thinking they were meant to restore the Retired Emperor, Li Feng scornfully dismissed the Retired Emperor as old, feeble, and incompetent, unworthy of ruling.

He then revealed his true identity as Du Feng, a direct descendant of the late Sui Dynasty hero Du Fuwei. He explained that his ancestors were granted the imperial surname Li for their contributions to the founding of the Tang Dynasty, a decision he now viewed as a grave error. Restoring his ancestral name, Du Feng proclaimed his intention to become emperor, promising his loyal followers the status of founding heroes in a new Lingyan Pavilion.

When a loyal officer named Zhu San refused to participate in the rebellion, Du Feng ruthlessly executed him, sending a chilling warning to anyone harboring doubts. Du Feng then laid out his plan: with the Grand Princess presumably dead, the Retired Emperor was at Chengqing Hall, where the Emperor was soon to arrive.

Using his authority as acting commander of the Right Imperial Guard, he had already pulled away most of the guards from Chengqing Hall, leaving only a few token defenders no match for his forces. He declared they would strike swiftly, kill both the Emperor and the Retired Emperor, and seize control of the empire for himself. His soldiers roared their approval, ready to assault the palace. The Emperor proceeded to the Retired Emperor's bedchamber, bringing golden peaches.

Their conversation was fraught with tension and hidden meanings. The Emperor assured his father he could eat the peaches without concern. The Retired Emperor, however, retorted by bringing up the recent raptor attack on the Princess's mansion and her unknown fate, implying the golden peaches might be connected to the danger. He even subtly accused the Emperor of having withheld peaches from him previously. Their tense exchange was abruptly interrupted by shouts from outside.

A panicked palace attendant reported that a group of assassins in white, led by the traitor Li Feng, were storming the palace gates. In this critical moment, Lu Lingfeng, clad in black armor and brandishing the Grand General of the Right Imperial Guard token, appeared alone to block the entrance to Chengqing Hall. He immediately denounced Li Feng's rebellion. Li Feng, stunned by Lu Lingfeng's presence, questioned how he entered.

Lu Lingfeng declared he had foreseen their treason and arrived to protect the imperial family and apprehend the traitors. He taunted Li Feng, revealing he knew Li Feng's ancestral connection to Du Fuwei and his family's signature use of the phoenix-winged gold halberd, which first aroused suspicion after Su Wuming's ambush. Lu Lingfeng then attempted to sway the rebel soldiers, urging them to repent and surrender, promising to plead for their lives, believing they were merely misled.

Li Feng, however, ordered his men to ignore Lu Lingfeng’s attempts to stall. Lu Lingfeng then directly unmasked the hidden conspirator, calling out Wu Wenbin by name and commanding him to remove his disguise. A shocked Wu Wenbin complied, revealing his true face. Seeing his treachery exposed, Wu Wenbin confessed his surprise that Lu Lingfeng had identified him.

Lu Lingfeng explained his deductions: Wu Wenbin’s cover-up of the Paper Effigy Shop owner’s murder and the absence of an autopsy for Cen Zhi at the Yongzhou Prefecture (a fact Lu Lingfeng confirmed by inspecting Cen Zhi’s coffin) pointed to his involvement. He further revealed that only someone familiar with the Eastern Palace would know Lie Na’s identity as the Deposed Queen Wei’s former bird slave.

Lu Lingfeng directly accused Wu Wenbin, a clansman of Empress Wu Zetian, of inciting his father-in-law, Li Feng, to rebel, with the goal of killing the Emperor, Grand Princess, and Retired Emperor to install Li Feng on the throne. Wu Wenbin scoffed at Lu Lingfeng's words and urged Li Feng to attack swiftly. Seeing Lu Lingfeng as their greatest obstacle, Li Feng, with no further words, commanded his white-clad assassins to charge.

Despite being heavily outnumbered, Lu Lingfeng fought valiantly, eventually striking Li Feng with his sword, piercing his chest. The rebel forces were overwhelming, and the doors of Chengqing Hall were close to breaching. Li Feng promised the title of "Marquis of Ten Thousand Households" to anyone who could kill Lu Lingfeng.

Inside, with Lu Lingfeng single-handedly holding the gate, desperately awaiting reinforcements, the Emperor took up a sword, vowing to protect the Retired Emperor with his own life should the rebels break through. Regretting his misplaced trust in Li Feng, the Emperor directly questioned his father: did the Retired Emperor know that the raptor had been kept at his villa on Mount Zhongnan? The Retired Emperor feigned surprise, claiming ignorance.

The Emperor pressed on, pointing out that while Wu Wenbin, a clansman of Empress Wu Zetian and Yongzhou Judicial Official, had manipulated the Bird Slave, he lacked the authority to withdraw all imperial guards from the Retired Emperor's villa. As the Emperor spoke, the Retired Emperor cast a telling glance at his trembling attendant, Laifu, hinting at his intention to shift blame.

Just as the rebels attempted to burn Lu Lingfeng, Grand General Lu Tong arrived with the main contingent of the Imperial Guards, swiftly encircling the rebels. Seeing their cause lost, Wu Wenbin attempted a desperate betrayal, trying to kill Li Feng to feign loyalty to Lu Tong, claiming he had been an undercover agent coerced by Li Feng.

However, Lu Tong saw through the charade and promptly struck Wu Wenbin down with a single sword stroke, advising Lu Lingfeng that such a dangerous individual must be eliminated. Lu Tong then reported to the Emperor and Retired Emperor that he had arrived and that the rebel leaders, Li Feng and Wu Wenbin, had been slain. The Emperor again pressed the Retired Emperor for an answer regarding the raptor at the Mount Zhongnan villa.

The Retired Emperor, recalling Li Feng's past expressions of loyalty, cunningly shifted the blame onto Laifu, stating he had entrusted Laifu with the management of the Mount Zhongnan villa years ago. Just then, the Emperor suddenly remembered Li Feng mentioning his original surname was Du. Laifu, realizing he was exposed, tried to flee but was swiftly pursued and silenced by his godfather, Yang Xun. The Emperor then acknowledged his father's ordeal.

The Retired Emperor, declaring himself weary and defeated, vowed to retire to the Western Palace, promising to never again interfere in court affairs or appoint officials. He formally relinquished all power, proclaiming the entire Tang Empire now belonged solely to the Emperor. This marked the end of the three-way power struggle, leaving only the Emperor and the Grand Princess as key political forces.

Reflecting on the chaos caused by the golden peaches, the Emperor met with Du Ming, acknowledging his past as the Retired Emperor's confidant. With the Retired Emperor now out of power, Du Ming immediately swore his allegiance to the Emperor, stating his unwavering loyalty to the Tang Empire and its sovereign. The Emperor, in turn, pardoned Du Ming for any past oversights and accepted him as his own man, with Du Ming pledging his utmost devotion.

Next, the Emperor addressed the fate of Lie Na, the Bird Slave. Given that Grand General Lu Tong had lost an eye because of Lie Na, the Emperor left the decision to Lu Tong. Lu Tong expressed that if Lie Na could be spared, he should be.

He confessed that when he led the campaign to destroy Amono years ago, the intelligence suggesting Amono's rebellion against the Tang Empire might have been false, possibly a divisive plot orchestrated by the Yenisei Kirghiz. If this were true, Lu Tong admitted that his lost eye was a deserved consequence. He earnestly pleaded with the Emperor to grant Lie Na, the "Little Prince," a chance at life, a request the Emperor granted.

Thirty "li" outside the city, everyone gathered to see Lie Na off. Xue Huan released the Flame Crow, which soared into the sky. Lie Na, seeing his companion fly free, was touched. He expressed a desire to destroy the mask of Liu XVII he wore, as its original owner had committed grave evils, wishing to show his true face to the world.

However, Su Wuming stopped him, explaining that the Tang Empire, with its open policy, was granting him freedom due to his repentance, his cooperation in exposing the rebels, and Grand General Lu Tong’s plea for leniency. Su Wuming encouraged Lie Na to keep the mask, as it would allow him to lead a normal life, marry, have children, and live free from worry, urging him to forget his past hatred and embrace kindness.

Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao echoed this sentiment. Moved to tears, Lie Na vowed never to harm anyone again, promising that his Flame Crow would also cease to injure. With a final thank you, Lie Na departed, accompanied by his bird, leaving everyone marveling at the magnificent sight, a true symbol of the Tang Empire's grandeur. With the crisis averted, Fei Jishi, now recovered, eagerly inquired about the rewards for solving the case.

Upon hearing that six golden peaches were granted, he immediately claimed the largest one, eating it despite lighthearted warnings about the Flame Crow. The Grand Princess, recognizing her son Lu Lingfeng's extraordinary contributions in saving the empire, keenly awaited the Emperor's decision on his reward. Grand General Lu Tong, despite losing an eye, once again advocated for Lu Lingfeng, proposing his return to the Imperial Guard, even if not as Grand General.

He argued that rewarding Lu Lingfeng was crucial to command respect and prevent him from being pushed towards the Grand Princess’s faction. However, Attendant Yang expressed concern, reminding the Emperor that Lu Lingfeng was the Grand Princess's son, raising fears of divided loyalties. The Emperor intervened, stating he had his own plans for Lu Lingfeng's appointment and noted Lu Lingfeng's continued dutiful protection of Lu Tong.

Subsequently, Lu Tong informed Lu Lingfeng that while he couldn't secure his return to the Imperial Guard, the Emperor had appointed him as Yongzhou Judicial Official, a post he had held previously. Lu Lingfeng expressed no disappointment, viewing it as an opportunity to apply his skills. The Emperor also sent an oral decree through Lu Lingfeng to Su Wuming, allowing him to continue as Criminal Investigation Scholar for his meritorious service in the raptor case.

Lu Lingfeng, who had once wished to kill Su Wuming for informing on him, now reflected that Su Wuming seemed to be a trustworthy ally. The Grand Princess, discussing the appointment, acknowledged that while Yongzhou Judicial Official wasn't a high-ranking post, it wielded real power over the capital region’s legal and penal matters. She considered it acceptable, though wryly observed that it was a windfall for the "foolish" Yongzhou Chief Administrator, Du Ming, to gain two of Master Di's disciples.

Du Ming himself was absolutely delighted, exclaiming that with Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming, both disciples of Master Di, joining the Yongzhou Prefecture, it would become a truly formidable force. When Su Wuming playfully questioned if he was to be considered a "troop" or a "horse," Du Ming clarified it was merely a figure of speech. Su Wuming then expressed his willingness to serve the people of Yongzhou but noted the absence of a salary for his "Scholar" position.

After some discussion, Du Ming slyly announced that the court had allocated a special fund for expanding the capital's network of investigators, and since Lu Lingfeng, as the new Judicial Official, would manage these funds, Su Wuming's monthly salary would therefore be disbursed from Lu Lingfeng's Judicial Office budget. Lu Lingfeng, realizing Du Ming's cunning, jokingly called him a "sly old dog." Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming then prepared to assume their new posts in Yongzhou.

Episode 6 Recap

At Chengfo Temple, women's sorrowful wails pierced the night, terrifying the monks and causing their numbers and the temple's patronage to dwindle. Disciple Changqing, overcome with fear, pleaded with Abbot Guangxiao to invite an exorcist. Guangxiao, however, vehemently refused, asserting that no ghosts existed within the temple walls and attributing Changqing's fears to an "unsettled heart." Yet, even as he spoke, the cries intensified, multiplying as if from multiple women.

Despite the rising panic among his monks, with one even threatening to leave, Guangxiao led them to the Great Buddha Hall. Upon their entry and collective chanting, the cries abruptly ceased. A thorough search of the hall yielded no trace of any woman. A monk speculated that the sounds might emanate from a secret passage connected to the Ghost Market beneath the Great Buddha statue, but Abbot Guangxiao quickly dismissed the idea.

He explained that after Feng Han's rebellion, the government had sealed the passage with massive rocks, preventing any sounds from reaching the surface. He pointed to the cobweb-covered demon murals on the walls as proof of the Buddha's protective power, urging his monks to put their faith in it. No sooner had he finished speaking than the piercing cries resumed. Panicked, the monks fled, ignoring Guangxiao’s attempts to rally them.

Later, six friends gathered at Pei Xijun's residence for a celebratory banquet. Pei Xijun announced four reasons for joy: Fei Jishi's recovery, Lu Lingfeng's appointment as Yongzhou Judicial Official, Su Wuming's position as Criminal Investigation Scholar being confirmed by imperial decree, and Xue Huan becoming the youngest captain in the Tang Empire.

Fei Jishi, while acknowledging the first three, jokingly noted that Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming, both former Vice Ministers of the Court of Judicial Review, were now holding seemingly "minor positions." Su Wuming promptly countered that an official's true purpose was to serve His Majesty and the people, regardless of rank. The group then engaged in a playful game of renaming the dishes poetically. Pei Xijun renamed a honey-sesame fried pastry "Fallen Flowers Scattered Like Stars."

Xue Huan named a transparent grilled shrimp "Cold Beacon Fire on Radiant Armor." Chu Yingtao renamed a cake "Auspicious Dragon and Phoenix in Crystal Delight." Fei Jishi, with less success, named a chicken dish "Pure Tangy Fragrance that Intoxicates the Heart," much to the others' amusement.

As the evening wore on, Su Wuming complained to Lu Lingfeng that Du Ming was being stingy, only willing to pay him 1,500 coins a month, despite the Princess Royal and Emperor's approval of his scholar position. He also noted that Chu Yingtao, who was being considered for a secret agent role, would receive 2,000 coins. Overhearing this, Chu Yingtao's spirits soared, relieved to have found a purpose and a place in Chang'an. She light-heartedly offered to support Su Wuming.

The next morning, Chu Yingtao and Pei Xijun, having discovered their mutual desire to visit a cosmetics shop, decided to go together. Unknown to Chu Yingtao, Su Wuming and Lu Lingfeng had deliberately staged the salary conversation. Lu Lingfeng later explained to Su Wuming that he did so to help Chu Yingtao, who had no family or friends in Chang'an, develop a sense of belonging, acknowledging her valuable assistance during their perilous journey.

Lu Lingfeng then shared his new initiative: moving the Judicial Official's court to various districts daily to address cases and grievances face-to-face, which he called the "Mobile Court." Su Wuming enthusiastically supported the idea, suggesting they transfer constables Jia, Luo, and Liu from Chang'an County to assist, revealing a surprising synchronicity in their thoughts. At the Meixiu Skincare Shop in Shengye District, renowned for its "Fairy Beauty Powder," customers were frustrated by a three-day wait for new stock.

The owner, Chi Ying, known for her fiery temper, sternly dismissed requests for her secret recipe, instructing her daughter, Wu Yang, to practice a "stern face" to deter such inquiries. The shop's landlord, Yu Gong, visited, returning overpaid rent while subtly proposing a partnership, which Chi Ying firmly rejected, stating she never partnered in business. Shortly after, Chu Yingtao and Pei Xijun arrived. When informed of the wait, Chu Yingtao playfully asked for the recipe.

Before Chi Ying could react, Zhang Kuang, owner of a local fish shop, barged in, falsely accusing the powder of causing pimples on his wife's face. He demanded the recipe or offered to buy the shop for 50,000 coins on the condition that Chi Ying and Wu Yang leave Chang'an. Chu Yingtao, witnessing his bullying, swiftly intervened, single-handedly subduing Zhang Kuang's men and forcing him to retreat.

Grateful, Chi Ying offered them her private stock of the powder, which Chu Yingtao insisted on purchasing. Wu Yang, touched by their kindness and admitting she had no friends, impulsively asked to befriend them. The two women readily agreed, and Wu Yang invited them to visit the Qu River, meeting at Chengfo Temple at 9 AM the next morning. Meanwhile, children in Chang'an were singing a popular new ballad about Empress Wu Zetian's rebirth.

The night watchwoman, Ling Yi, her face strikingly tattooed, angrily warned the children against such talk, threatening them with ghosts. A drunkard named Kuai Wu approached Ling Yi, attempting to flirt. Annoyed, Ling Yi cursed him, declaring that evil spirits would claim his life within seven "zhang". Kuai Wu scoffed, but as he stumbled towards a nearby well, he saw Empress Wu Zetian's face reflected in the water. Terrified, he pleaded for mercy, then tripped and fell into the well.

Briefly dismissing it as a drunken hallucination, he then slipped again and drowned. Chancellor Cui, aware of the circulating Empress Wu Zetian ballad, secretly orchestrated its wider spread. The Princess Royal, learning of Lu Lingfeng's innovative "Mobile Court" and impressed by his courage, decided to pay an incognito visit to Shengye District where the court was first established.

There, Lu Lingfeng, introduced by Su Wuming as the disciple of Master Di, publicly declared his commitment to solving cases directly with the people. As the crowd cheered, the children's ballad drifted near. Chancellor Cui seized the moment to explain its meaning to the Princess Royal, suggesting the people yearned for a strong female ruler like her to inherit Empress Wu's mantle, a clear hint at the throne.

Lu Lingfeng's unique approach was immediately put to the test as citizens approached him with everything from a lost goose to a husband frequenting entertainment districts. Demonstrating his dedication, he dispatched his constables to handle these seemingly minor issues. The new court's success, however, was cut short by news of a dead man found in a well. Lu Lingfeng and his team rushed to the scene.

Su Wuming, examining Kuai Wu's body, noted abrasions on his face and mud in his hair and fingernails, indicating drowning. However, the disturbed crime scene made it impossible to determine if it was suicide, an accident, or murder. He estimated the time of death to be after 11 PM. Xue Huan, anticipating such needs, had already summoned the owner of the local late-night eatery, staff, and Kuai Wu's distraught wife and child to identify the body.

At Chengfo Temple, Chu Yingtao and Pei Xijun waited for Wu Yang, but as 10 AM approached, she had not arrived. Abbot Guangxiao recognized Pei Xijun and, after a slight mix-up, Chu Yingtao, inviting them into the temple to offer incense. They politely declined, explaining they were waiting for a friend. Chu Yingtao grew impatient, threatening to end the new friendship if Wu Yang didn't arrive soon, while Pei Xijun suggested Wu Yang's mother might be strict. Unseen by them, two men watched closely from a hidden spot.

Episode 7 Recap

Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming set up a temporary court on the street, drawing a crowd, particularly young women more interested in Lu Lingfeng himself than the cases. Su Wuming questioned Kuai Wu's wife, who insisted her husband had no enemies, just many friends and a love for bragging. Kuai Wu’s drinking companions added that the previous night, he had been regaling them with tales about Empress Wu Zetian’s reign.

The restaurant owner noted two mysterious groups of customers, one being merchants and another two secretive men. She specifically recalled a white-haired wandering hermit paying a treasure hunter three gold coins for information about the Empress's golden slip and later toasting Kuai Wu, praising his "fascinating" stories. Su Wuming pressed Kuai Wu’s drinking companions further, and they eventually admitted that Kuai Wu had explicitly discussed Empress Wu Zetian's private male companions, implying he was revealing scandalous secrets beyond official records.

The wandering hermit found these tales highly entertaining. Suddenly, Chi Ying burst into the court, distraught, reporting her 17-year-old daughter, Wu Yang, missing since last night. While Lu Lingfeng was initially dismissive, Su Wuming agreed to investigate after Chi Ying’s insistent pleas. At Chi Ying’s house, they found the door lock smashed, the room ransacked, and a window open, suggesting a forced entry.

Chi Ying reluctantly confessed that she had gone to Baifeng House, known for its handsome young men, and had locked Wu Yang in for her safety, fearing something might happen to her. Chi Ying then named Zhang Kuang, a notorious bully who owns a fish shop, as a potential suspect. Lu Lingfeng, accompanied by Xue Huan, confronted Zhang Kuang’s arrogant workers, who boasted of Grand General Lu Tong's patronage and dismissed Lu Lingfeng as insignificant.

Lu Lingfeng instructed Xue Huan to demonstrate his prowess, and Xue Huan quickly subdued the workers. Lu Lingfeng warned them against using Lu Tong's name to intimidate, threatening to demolish their fish shop. The terrified workers revealed that Zhang Kuang, along with his formidable enforcer Mi Ba, had gone to seek revenge on two women, one of whom was named Pei.

Meanwhile, Pei Xijun was trying to comfort Chu Yingtao, suggesting Wu Yang, whom she described as an "innocent and lonely girl," must have had a compelling reason for missing their rendezvous. Their conversation was abruptly interrupted by Zhang Kuang and his henchmen, led by Mi Ba, who brandished a pair of heavy iron hammers. Zhang Kuang declared his brutal philosophy of "taking profit and avenging grudges" and ordered Mi Ba to kill them.

Lu Lingfeng arrived just in time, chastising Zhang Kuang for his brazen violence in Chang'an. Chu Yingtao, advising Lu Lingfeng to protect Pei Xijun, swiftly disarmed Mi Ba and forced him to kneel before Pei Xijun. Zhang Kuang attempted to flee but was apprehended by Xue Huan. At the temporary court, Zhang Kuang admitted his jealousy over the skincare shop's booming business but vehemently denied kidnapping Wu Yang, even mockingly regretting he hadn't thought of it.

Enraged, Chi Ying attempted to attack Zhang Kuang but was restrained by Su Wuming. Su Wuming noted Chi Ying’s overprotective nature towards Wu Yang, who, Chi Ying insisted, had no friends or relatives in Chang'an and always obeyed her. When Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao mentioned their plans to meet Wu Yang, Chi Ying reacted with extreme fury, demanding to know why they would make plans "behind her back" and worrying about potential dangers.

Su Wuming calmed her, emphasizing the importance of providing clues to find Wu Yang. That night, the team discussed the case, concluding Wu Yang's disappearance was likely connected to the lucrative beauty powder. Fei Jishi, eager to analyze the formula, received a sample of the "Fairy Beauty Powder" from Chu Yingtao, who stated she had no desire to use it if Wu Yang remained missing.

Chu Yingtao also eagerly volunteered to secretly monitor the landlord, Yu Gong, proud of her new role as a secret agent. Pei Xijun presented her meticulously drawn portraits of the white-haired hermit, the mysterious man, and Wu Yang. Su Wuming was visibly disturbed by Wu Yang’s likeness in the portrait and, after confirming its accuracy, took it, hinting at a more "bizarre" dimension to the case.

The team dispersed to follow their respective leads, leaving Fei Jishi alone and lamenting his sudden loneliness. Su Wuming went directly to the Imperial Palace and presented Wu Yang's portrait to the Princess. The Princess was deeply astonished by Wu Yang's striking resemblance to Empress Wu Zetian in her youth, specifically noting her "dragon eyes, phoenix neck, square forehead, and broad chin."

The Princess expressed a desire to meet Wu Yang and adopt her as a goddaughter, but was shocked to learn she was missing. Su Wuming theorized that Wu Yang's unique appearance was directly linked to her disappearance. Meanwhile, at Yu Gong's villa, his men were found mysteriously asleep, and Wu Yang was gone again. Chu Yingtao, having successfully tailed Yu Gong, revealed her identity as a secret agent and apprehended him.

Under interrogation, Yu Gong confessed his attempt to acquire Chi Ying's beauty powder formula. He recounted how his men had tried to kidnap Wu Yang after Chi Ying, having locked her in her room to prevent her from attending a lion dance, had left. His men broke into the room but found Wu Yang had already escaped through a window.

Later, they unexpectedly spotted Wu Yang at the market enjoying the lion dance and recaptured her, imprisoning her in the villa. However, his guards had inexplicably fallen into a deep sleep, allowing Wu Yang to vanish once more. Back at Yu Gong's villa, Lu Lingfeng, Su Wuming, and Fei Jishi conducted a thorough inspection.

Fei Jishi discovered a tiny hole in the window frame and identified the sedative used on the guards as "madam's incense," a rare and extremely expensive substance, indicating a highly skilled and wealthy abductor. Lu Lingfeng, puzzled by Wu Yang's repeated kidnappings, questioned the motive, recalling Su Wuming's intense reaction to Wu Yang's portrait earlier. Su Wuming then fully revealed that Wu Yang bore an uncanny and "identical" resemblance to Empress Wu Zetian in her youth.

Fei Jishi corroborated this, stating that the beauty powder's formula was not particularly special; rather, Wu Yang's unique appearance was the likely cause of her troubles. However, Lu Lingfeng dismissed this as a potential coincidence and advised Su Wuming not to "make a mountain out of a molehill," a comment Su Wuming found quite irritating. At Chengfo Temple, charcoal seller Tao Bo attempted to rest in the Great Buddha Hall for the night.

Householder Chenkong blocked his entry, citing rules against sleeping there, but Tao Bo, hard of hearing, struggled to understand. Chenkong patiently explained that the hall was closed at night and Tao Bo, despite his small past donation, was only permitted during the day. Tao Bo then pointed out Chi Ying, who was inside praying, asking why she was allowed. Chenkong clarified that Chi Ying had made a substantial donation and was praying for her missing daughter.

Tao Bo grumbled and tried to settle near the Buddha, but Chenkong threatened to summon Buddhist Guangxiao to remove him, prompting Tao Bo to agree to leave when Chi Ying did. Later that night, Chi Ying, praying inside, heard a woman's mournful crying and believed it was Wu Yang. Chenkong dismissed it as mere "ghost cries," a common occurrence in the Great Buddha Hall for several months, and urged her to leave.

Meanwhile, Lu Lingfeng, retracing Wu Yang's supposed escape route, had Pei Xijun jump from a high window. Chu Yingtao correctly deduced that since Wu Yang, like Pei Xijun, lacked martial arts training, someone must have assisted her escape. They then noticed an old man secretly observing them. After a brief chase, the old man was apprehended and explained that Chi Ying had forbidden him from her house.

The following morning, Chi Ying, still furious that Wu Yang had not been found, angrily berated Lu Lingfeng and his team, calling them "useless fools" despite their past triumphs. Lu Lingfeng remained composed, suggesting they would have a proper discussion at her skincare shop once she had calmed down.

Episode 8 Recap

Chi Ying revealed her background, sharing that she hailed from Leshou, Yingzhou, and had traveled extensively with her father’s lion dance troupe since childhood. Her husband, a native of Chang'an and her father's most talented disciple, was also her childhood sweetheart. Together, they were an unbeatable duo, once triumphing over the Chancellor's lion dance team to claim the top prize at the Divine Capital's Lion Dance Competition. However, this victory enraged the Chancellor, who was Empress Wu Zetian's nephew.

Petty and vindictive, he accused them of using the lion dance as a cover for assassination. To protect his family, Chi Ying's father took sole responsibility and tragically died unjustly in prison. Devastated, Chi Ying had contemplated following him in death, but discovered she was pregnant at 37 for the first time. Her husband arranged for her to move to Chang'an, promising to follow after settling his father-in-law's affairs.

Shortly after her arrival, news reached her that a lion dancer in the Divine Capital had publicly assassinated the Chancellor and been cut down. Chi Ying knew instantly it was her husband, avenging her father. She later received his last letter, which, while urging her to move on and allow their unborn child to take another surname if she remarried, only further fueled her fury. She confessed that she had only continued living for the sake of Wu Yang.

Driven by her tragic past, Chi Ying became fiercely protective of her daughter. She admitted that her initial story about visiting Baifeng House to "drown her sorrows" was a fabrication. In reality, she had met Xia Sheng, a struggling lion dance troupe leader, and helped his team win a crucial competition. Afterwards, she got drunk and returned home late.

She had kept her past a secret, fearing that revealing her family's history—especially her husband's assassination of a powerful official—would endanger Wu Yang, as some individuals had already shown "unfriendly" interest in her daughter. Chi Ying recounted an incident where a white-haired hermit had encountered Wu Yang and remarked on her striking resemblance to his former lover. This had enraged Chi Ying, who immediately brought her daughter home.

Pei Xijun, based on Chi Ying’s description, drew a portrait of the man, which matched the white-haired hermit seen earlier at the restaurant. While Pei Xijun noted his handsome features despite his advanced age, Chi Ying scornfully denounced him as a "fiend," likening him to the grotesque "demons and monsters" depicted in the "Subjugation of Devils" mural at Chengfo Temple. She worried that one of these "demons" might have emerged from the mural and kidnapped her daughter.

Pei Xijun, a passionate admirer of art and the mural's painter, Qin Xiaobai, was deeply offended by Chi Ying's derogatory remarks. Upset, she stormed out. Lu Lingfeng followed, comforting her and assuring her that her anger was justified given her respect for the artist's masterpiece.

Pei Xijun decided to visit Chengfo Temple herself to clean the dust and cobwebs from the "Subjugation of Devils" mural, viewing it as a personal way to pay homage to Master Qin Xiaobai, whose disciple she had always wished to be. Meanwhile, Lu Lingfeng observed A Mu, a sanitation worker, frequently glancing his way. He approached A Mu, who knew Lu Lingfeng's name and title. A Mu confirmed he often saw Wu Yang.

He also provided details about the night Kuai Wu fell into the well. A Mu described Kuai Wu as being heavily intoxicated and argumentative. He then recalled hearing a woman curse Kuai Wu, yelling that he deserved to drown for groping her. A Mu had initially dismissed it, but later connected it to Kuai Wu's death. Following up on a lead, Lu Lingfeng and his team located Ling Yi, a woman who posed as a "spirit medium."

She offered to connect them with deceased loved ones for a fee. Su Wuming challenged her by asking her to contact his late mentor, Di Renjie. Ling Yi faltered, admitting she could not contact a spirit of such renown, exposing her as a fraud. Su Wuming sternly ordered her to wash off her theatrical makeup. Ling Yi denied any involvement in Kuai Wu's death, claiming her curses were merely words and she lacked the strength to push him.

She defended her actions, saying she only took twenty coins from A Mu to help him contact his father, believing she was doing him a favor. Chu Yingtao secretly followed Ling Yi (whose real name was A Ling) to her home, where A Ling's hostile mother-in-law berated her, demanding she earn 10,000 coins to leave the household.

Chu Yingtao reported her findings: A Ling, widowed and abused by her mother-in-law, had been given the night watch job by the sympathetic district head. Six months prior, she began her fraudulent "spirit medium" trade, hoping to amass the 10,000 coins needed to buy her freedom. Su Wuming, though displeased by her deception, sympathized with A Ling's plight and vowed to confront her abusive mother-in-law once the current case concluded. Xue Huan offered to accompany him.

Pei Xijun ventured to the Great Buddha Hall alone and was deeply moved by the magnificent mural. There, she encountered Householder Chenkong, who was bleeding from a head wound. Chenkong claimed that two thieves had broken in the previous night, attempting to steal ritual objects, and he was injured while fighting them. He insisted he would not report the incident, believing the Buddha would deliver justice.

He then forbade Pei Xijun from cleaning the mural, saying it "must not be cleaned," and ordered her to leave the hall, which she found perplexing. Later, she discussed this with Buddhist Guangxiao, who reiterated that the mural should not be cleaned and the hall should not be entered lightly. At dinner, Pei Xijun was too distressed to eat, prompting the team to discuss the strange occurrences at Chengfo Temple.

Buddhist Guangxiao had previously mentioned that for two months, a woman's weeping had emanated from the Great Buddha Hall every night, causing the temple to lose its visitors. Su Wuming and Xue Huan voiced their suspicions, suggesting the temple was concealing something, particularly given their failure to report the bizarre events. Lu Lingfeng, seeing Pei Xijun's distress, proposed they go for a walk, secretly intending to revisit the Great Buddha Hall.

Under the cover of dusk, Lu Lingfeng and Pei Xijun entered the deserted Great Buddha Hall. As Pei Xijun began cleaning the mural, they heard faint weeping, which Lu Lingfeng reassured her was merely the wind. They then discovered an old man, Tao Bo, the charcoal seller, resting in a corner. Tao Bo, hard of hearing, claimed he could only sleep peacefully at the Buddha's feet and had sneaked in. When questioned, he denied hearing the crying or imitating it.

Moved by his solitary situation, Pei Xijun offered Tao Bo a spare room at her family's mansion, an act of kindness that earned Lu Lingfeng's approval. Having completed the cleaning, Pei Xijun expressed gratitude to Lu Lingfeng for his assistance in restoring the mural to its rightful glory. Suddenly, Buddhist Guangxiao and his monks arrived, furious. They angrily accused Lu Lingfeng and Pei Xijun of releasing demons and monsters by cleaning the mural.

Guangxiao claimed that the Buddha had appeared to Householder Chenkong in a dream, instructing them to cover the mural with dust and cobwebs to prevent evil from harming Chang'an. Su Wuming challenged this, asking why the weeping hadn't stopped even after the mural was "sealed." The monks confirmed that the crying had, in fact, intensified, sometimes sounding like multiple women. Xue Huan, taking a more assertive stance, questioned why such a strange phenomenon hadn't been reported to the authorities.

Su Wuming reminded them of past "demonic" incidents at the temple, where so-called demons were revealed to be human imposters, and highlighted his and Lu Lingfeng's own roles in "vanquishing" them. Facing their questions, Guangxiao looked panicked. To resolve the matter, Lu Lingfeng declared that he and his team of six would stay overnight in the Great Buddha Hall to confront these "demons." Guangxiao, though hesitant, eventually agreed, instructing his monks to retreat to their quarters and recite protective sutras.

Later that night, as the team kept vigil, Fei Jishi, with his keen senses, pointed out a small hole in the hall's structure, hinting at needed repairs. He then detected the distinct scent of Fairy Beauty Powder emanating from the mat where Tao Bo had rested. Pei Xijun confirmed she had used the powder, but denied touching the mat. Lu Lingfeng's suspicions immediately turned to Tao Bo. He instructed Chu Yingtao to discreetly investigate the old charcoal seller.

Chu Yingtao followed Tao Bo to an old house. Inside, Tao Bo lit incense before a spirit tablet dedicated to Duke Zhao. To his shock, he discovered a golden tablet missing from beneath the incense burner. " Who stole my golden tablet?" he cried out, attempting to rush outside. Chu Yingtao blocked his path, confronting him and accusing him of involvement in Wu Yang's disappearance. Tao Bo, calling her an "arrogant lady," resisted arrest, and a fierce fight ensued.

Two guards, dispatched by Su Wuming to assist Chu Yingtao, arrived to help. Tao Bo wielded a formidable "armor-piercing awl," but Chu Yingtao eventually disarmed him. With his life threatened, Tao Bo desperately pleaded with her, begging for help to recover the golden tablet, claiming it held significance for "the very fate of the Tang Empire."

Episode 9 Recap

After Chu Yingtao subdued Mr. Tao, he immediately changed his demeanor, pleading with her to help retrieve a golden tablet, emphasizing its critical importance to the Tang Empire. Just then, a man in black attempted to escape, but Chu Yingtao, quick to react, captured him. The man identified himself as a treasure hunter and surrendered the golden tablet.

He explained that a client, a hermit with white hair and beard but a young face, had offered him 10 gold coins to find the golden tablet, which was an offering from Empress Wu Zhao for atonement. The client had instructed him to meet at the foot of Dayan Pagoda at the end of the month.

The treasure hunter also recalled that during a meeting, his client had discreetly added powder to a storyteller's wine, leading Su Wuming to later infer that the hermit had drugged Kuai Wu, preventing him from getting drunk naturally. When Lu Lingfeng and his team interrogated Mr. Tao, he remained silent. Chu Yingtao expressed her anger over Liu's injury, demanding an honest confession.

Su Wuming then presented the golden tablet and read its inscription, which dedicated it to Empress Wu Zhao for absolving her sins. He reminded Mr. Tao that in the first year of Jiushi, the Empress had ordered Daoist Hu Chao to cast this very golden tablet from Junji Peak on Mount Song during her visit to Sanyang Palace, intended to be a permanent sacred artifact.

Su Wuming pointed out the strange sight of it being found in Mr. Tao's humble home, weighed down by a stone, and questioned his true identity. He also noted that Mr. Tao had converted his residence into a temple worshipping Duke Zhao Zhangsun Wuji, with statues resembling Xu Jingzong, Li Yifu, and Yuan Gongyu kneeling before him, suggesting a deep connection to political history. Unable to withstand the questioning, Mr. Tao confessed his real name was Li Fengjie.

He described himself as a fiercely tempered young man skilled in martial arts some 50 years ago. He had once traveled to the capital to accuse an official, becoming entangled in an old case presided over by Di Renjie, a detail Su Wuming had heard from his mentor. During Emperor Gaozong's reign, Empress Wu Zetian sought to eliminate Duke Zhao Zhangsun Wuji.

Her confidant, Xu Jingzong, seized the opportunity to frame Duke Zhao, coercing Li Fengjie into falsely accusing the Duke and the official he had previously reported of conspiring in rebellion. As a result, Duke Zhao was demoted and driven to suicide, allowing Empress Wu Zetian to consolidate her power. After the political upheaval subsided, Li Fengjie was filled with remorse but also feared assassination. He assumed a new identity and lived as a charcoal seller.

He expressed constant regret for failing Duke Zhao and harming the Tang Empire, converting his home into a temple for Duke Zhao. Years later, driven by a desire to prevent Empress Wu Zetian from reincarnating, he risked his life to retrieve the golden tablet from beneath the cliff on Junji Peak 13 years prior. He then placed it under a stone before the statue of Duke Zhao, hoping to forever suppress her ability to atone.

His deep-seated hatred resurfaced when he recently encountered Wu Yang, whose striking resemblance to the young Empress ignited a murderous intent. Despite Lu Lingfeng pointing out the fantasy of reincarnation and the age discrepancy, Li Fengjie only cared about the resemblance. After Lu Lingfeng recorded his confession, he ordered Li Fengjie to be taken to prison. Still defiant, Li Fengjie demanded to know how his deception was uncovered.

Chicken Fei then revealed that the "Fairy Beauty Powder" found in his possession, an item unsuited for a male charcoal seller of his age, was the clue that exposed him, leaving Li Fengjie utterly frustrated. Pei Xijun diligently tended to the injured Liu, offering him medicine.

During their conversation, Liu's casual remark about wishing for a beard like Guan Yu triggered a sudden realization in Pei Xijun: the white-haired hermit was none other than Householder Chenkong, the wealthy keeper of the Great Buddha Hall at Chengfo Temple. When Lu Lingfeng asked about Chenkong's whereabouts, it was revealed he had left the temple the previous night.

Abbot Guangxiao then led the team to search Chenkong's meditation room, where they unexpectedly discovered a comb identified as belonging to Wu Yang. Shortly after, a constable reported that Chenkong's whereabouts had been traced to Shengye District. At the same time, Householder Chenkong located Auntie Ling's residence, offering her a large sum of money to perform a ritual to summon the Empress's spirit. Greedy for the gold, Auntie Ling brazenly pretended to be possessed by the Empress's ghost.

However, Chenkong quickly saw through her ruse when she mistook him for Xue Huaiyi, the actual person who burned down Ming Hall. Enraged by her deceit, Chenkong brutally murdered her. As he prepared to return to Chengfo Temple, he unexpectedly encountered Lu Lingfeng and his group. The bloodstains on Chenkong's sleeve immediately exposed his crime, leading to his swift arrest. During the arrest, Chenkong pleaded for his face not to be harmed, fearing the Empress would not recognize him.

In court, Householder Chenkong confessed his real name was Shen Yu. He revealed he had once been a favored attendant to Empress Wu Zetian and was deeply devoted to her. After the Empress's death, Shen Yu was overcome with despair and intended to become a monk. However, upon meeting Wu Yang, he became convinced she was the Empress reincarnated, claiming the Buddha had granted his wish. He recounted his initial approaches, often in disguise, leading to a developing romance.

Due to Chi Ying's strict oversight, Shen Yu frequently relied on Ah Mu to deliver messages to Wu Yang. Originally, Wu Yang had considered eloping with Shen Yu, but her discovery that he viewed her merely as a substitute for the Empress led to her profound disappointment and their definitive breakup. Shen Yu denied knowing Wu Yang's current whereabouts, though he admitted to taking her from a residence after someone else had already kidnapped her.

On the night of the lion dance, Shen Yu witnessed Wu Yang being kidnapped. He followed the abductors to a residence, where he incapacitated the guards with slumbering incense and took Wu Yang to the Great Buddha Hall, hoping to awaken her past life memories. Wu Yang, however, scorned him as a lunatic and fiercely rejected his proposal to take her to Wenshui in Bingzhou, her hometown, and make her "his empress."

She remained resolute, prompting Shen Yu to consider killing her, but he found himself unable to do so, struck by her composure which profoundly reminded him of the Empress. During this struggle, Shen Yu was ambushed from behind and knocked unconscious, seeing another man carry Wu Yang away before he blacked out. Shen Yu confessed his elaborate, months-long scheme.

He had orchestrated the "female ghost" haunting Chengfo Temple by utilizing "Night-Wandering Ladies" birds, known for their mournful cries, to deter visitors. This allowed him to secretly carve a stone coffin behind the Buddha statue. He also hired the treasure hunter to find the golden tablet. His ultimate goal was to merge Wu Yang's physical body with the golden Buddha statue and the golden tablet, thereby summoning the Empress's soul back.

He explained that on the night in question, he had used these birds to scare away Chi Ying and Mr. Tao, who were stubbornly refusing to leave the Great Buddha Hall. Regarding Kuai Wu's death, Shen Yu admitted to poisoning his wine at the restaurant, causing him to become delirious, and then throwing him down a well.

He justified this act by stating Kuai Wu deserved to die for publicly slandering the Empress, declaring he would kill anyone who dared to do so. Chicken Fei, appalled, criticized Shen Yu for disgracing the medical profession by using his skills for murder. Just then, a report arrived that a female corpse, similar in age and appearance to Wu Yang, had been discovered in the Ghost Market.

Episode 10 Recap

Lu Lingfeng and his companions rushed to the Ghost Market, where a constable reported a gruesome discovery: a female corpse with its entire face peeled off, leaving a bloody and tragic sight. Upon seeing the body, Auntie Chi Ying immediately recognized a remaining piece of fabric from the clothing as belonging to her daughter, Wu Yang.

Overcome with grief, Chi Ying attempted to take her own life by rushing towards a stone pillar, but Xue Huan bravely intercepted her, sustaining a serious injury and spitting blood. Despite his pain, Xue Huan managed to assure her that they would capture the true culprit. Su Wuming intervened, gently counseling Chi Ying. He pointed out that despite his large build, Xue Huan was actually two years younger than Wu Yang and had selflessly protected her.

Su Wuming urged Chi Ying to honor the boy's sincerity and promise. Slowly, Chi Ying's emotions calmed, and Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao stayed by her side to prevent further attempts at self-harm. Despite the well murder case being solved, Wu Yang's disappearance ending in tragedy weighed heavily on Lu Lingfeng, making him feel he had failed the residents of Shengye District.

Su Wuming, however, maintained a sense of unease, believing there were still unanswered questions, though he couldn't articulate why. Once Xue Huan's injuries had mended, Lu Lingfeng took him back to the Ghost Market, determined to apprehend the Ever-changing Master. Meanwhile, Master Chicken Fei, finding himself with free time, invited Su Wuming for a drink under the eaves of a face cream shop. They encountered A Mu, a sanitation worker, returning from his duties.

Su Wuming, sensing an opportunity, engaged A Mu in conversation. He learned that A Mu had willingly allowed himself to be scammed by Auntie Ling into a ritual to summon his deceased father's spirit, viewing it as his only way to show filial piety on his father's birthday. A Mu then mentioned Physician Bai, who regularly delivered herbs to Auntie Chi Ying and often cast strange glances at Wu Yang.

Following this lead, Su Wuming and Master Chicken Fei set off for Physician Bai's residence. In the Ghost Market, Lu Lingfeng led Xue Huan directly to a dimly lit shop named "Huangquan Tavern." The two entered and deliberately caused a commotion, overturning tables and shattering cups, intending to provoke the owner, Hell's Pursued. Before long, Hell's Pursued appeared, flanked by two men dressed in women's clothing.

Despite their martial skills, Hell's Pursued's followers were quickly subdued by Xue Huan, while Lu Lingfeng incapacitated Hell's Pursued himself within a few moves. Lu Lingfeng, revealing himself as the Yongzhou Judicial Official, former General of the Imperial Guard, and Master Di's disciple, offered Hell's Pursued a chance for redemption. Though Hell's Pursued had a notorious past, he had committed no recent major crimes, so Lu Lingfeng tasked him with locating the Ever-changing Master in exchange for his life.

Su Wuming and Master Chicken Fei found Physician Bai's secluded, remote cottage in Yongyang District, next to the Earth God Temple. As they approached, they heard a haunting "Night-Wandering Ladies" wail emanating from within and outside the courtyard walls, which abruptly ceased when a lamp was lit inside. Upon entering, Su Wuming, through keen observation of Physician Bai's words and actions, swiftly realized that the man was actually the Ever-changing Master in disguise.

The Ever-changing Master was prepared, however, and instantly released a cloud of sleeping gas, binding Su Wuming and Master Chicken Fei to the floor. As he brandished a knife, preparing to flay their faces, Su Wuming urgently questioned him about Wu Yang's fate. The Ever-changing Master denied killing her. He recounted how Shen Kong, a householder from Chengfo Temple, had been holding Wu Yang, intending to kill her due to her striking resemblance to Empress Wu Zetian in her youth.

The Ever-changing Master then overpowered Shen Kong and took Wu Yang, hoping to profit from her face. However, he was ambushed by another party on his way out of Chengfo Temple, who then kidnapped Wu Yang from him, even hitting him in the butt with an armor-piercing awl.

Infuriated by this setback, the Ever-changing Master found another young woman of similar age and appearance, brutally peeled off her face to vent his rage, and dumped the body in the Ghost Market to mislead the authorities. As the Ever-changing Master raised his knife to attack Su Wuming, Su Wuming, in a desperate struggle, kicked him. The Ever-changing Master stumbled and fell, fatally impaling himself on an armor-piercing awl placed in the corner of the room.

Just then, Lu Lingfeng and Xue Huan arrived. The four then proceeded to the prison to interrogate Li Fengjie, who the Ever-changing Master's wound implicated as the one who took Wu Yang from him. Li Fengjie, with a triumphant smirk, confessed to ambushing the Ever-changing Master and seizing Wu Yang.

He proudly declared that he had submerged Wu Yang, whom he believed to be the "demon empress" reincarnated, in a wooden cage in the Qu River, ensuring she would never be reborn. Without remorse, he stated that he was atoning for past sins, all because of a woman he had never met. Lu Lingfeng immediately dove into the river to search for Wu Yang. He eventually retrieved an empty wooden cage.

The ropes securing the cage had smooth, clean cuts, indicating they had been severed by a sharp weapon. The discovery led everyone to believe that Wu Yang might have been rescued and was still alive, having been abducted yet again. News of Wu Yang's disappearance, coupled with rumors of Empress Wu Zetian's reincarnation, spread throughout the capital, causing widespread unrest.

The reigning Empress, observing the situation, lamented the public's conflicting attitudes towards her late mother and the inherent difficulties women faced in governance. Fearing that public opinion would spiral out of control, Chief Administrator Du sternly ordered Su Wuming to close the case swiftly. Lu Lingfeng, however, insisted on a thorough investigation to uncover the complete truth, opposing any hasty conclusions. Su Wuming found himself mediating between their conflicting demands.

Chief Administrator Du further revealed that whispers circulating among the populace claimed Shen Yu was not Empress Wu Zetian's former lover but a demon raised by Abbot Guangxiao. There were also rumors that the painter Qin Xiaobai had been possessed while creating the murals in Chengfo Temple, which explained the abundance of demonic figures, and that Abbot Guangxiao was the true mastermind behind these events.

Overwhelmed by the mounting pressure and accusations, Abbot Guangxiao decided to embark on a hunger strike, seeking death to prove his innocence. Upon receiving this news, Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming immediately departed for Chengfo Temple.

Episode 11 Recap

Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming, disciples of Master Di, pledged in their mentor's name and with the reputation of the Lu family of Fanyang, to swiftly investigate the Chengfo Temple case within ten days, clear the rumors, and restore Abbot Guangxiao's and the temple's innocence. Despite their promise, the case was at a standstill, as Wu Yang remained missing, and the Ever-changing Master was dead. Lu Lingfeng voiced concern over the lack of leads.

Su Wuming, however, believed there were many, questioning how Wu Yang's clothes ended up on the victim if the Ever-changing Master was telling the truth. He even considered the possibility that the Ever-changing Master rescued Wu Yang only to kill her later. Lu Lingfeng regretted his forceful kick, which made the Ever-changing Master's dying words unreliable. Su Wuming decided the only course of action was to re-examine the female corpse to identify her.

Unbeknownst to the men, Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao, sharing a similar intuition, ventured to the morgue themselves. Pei Xijun, driven by urgency, insisted on seeing the corpse despite Chu Yingtao's hesitation about going without permission. Upon examination, Pei Xijun confirmed that the body was not Wu Yang's. She later explained to Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming that she recalled seeing an exquisite plum blossom brand on Wu Yang's arm when they first met, a detail absent from the deceased.

This new information proved invaluable. Chi Ying was then brought to identify the body again. Overwhelmed with grief at first, she initially recognized the clothing. However, upon closer inspection, she realized the corpse lacked the distinctive plum blossom brand on its arm, confirming it was not her daughter. Distraught yet hopeful, Chi Ying revealed that she had the brand put on Wu Yang's arm when her daughter was six years old.

Wu Yang had been almost abducted by someone who said she strikingly resembled Empress Wu Zetian. Fearing for her daughter's safety, Chi Ying sought advice from a Taoist priest, who suggested the plum blossom brand to symbolically "bind" Wu Yang to her forever. Su Wuming admonished Chi Ying for trying to control her daughter's life and for failing to mention such a critical identifier earlier, stressing the importance of calmness in such dire situations.

To draw out the hidden Wu Yang, Su Wuming devised a plan: Chi Ying was to publicly feign acceptance of her daughter's death, cease her search, and resume operating her Meixiu Skincare Shop with renewed vigor. She was to openly accept Xia Sheng's offers of help, creating the impression that she was moving on with her life. Soon, Woody arrived at the shop, announcing his departure for his hometown in Hanzhou Prefecture.

He bid Chi Ying farewell, implying that Wu Yang's disappearance might be a blessing in disguise, offering peace to both mother and daughter. Chi Ying reacted with furious indignation, questioning how she could ever find peace with her daughter missing and angrily ordered Woody out of her shop. Woody's departure was soon intercepted outside Chang'an by Lu Lingfeng and his companions.

Lu Lingfeng, playfully alluding to Su Wuming's perceptiveness, suggested Su Wuming had foretold that a certain "person" Lu Lingfeng cared about would be accompanying Woody, implying Wu Yang's presence. From the carriage, Wu Yang finally emerged, offering apologies to Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao for having used their trust.

She confessed that her earlier plans to meet them at Qu River were a deliberate act to camouflage her planned elopement with Woody, making her disappearance appear accidental and protecting her mother from the pain of believing her daughter had willingly abandoned her. It was revealed that Woody had indeed assisted Wu Yang's escape through a back window.

Wu Yang expressed regret for not leaving sooner, admitting she stayed behind for one last glimpse of her mother's secret lion dance performance. Woody then shared his tragic past: his father, a low-ranking official, was unjustly framed and died in prison, leaving him an orphaned sanitation worker. He explained that he delivered letters for the Ever-changing Master, whom he knew to be a nefarious individual, partly for payment and partly as a means to secretly meet Wu Yang.

Su Wuming remarked on the intricate web of deceit and misfortune that unfolded, likening it to a complex chain of predators, but acknowledged Woody's constant, silent protection of Wu Yang throughout. The elaborate fake kidnapping plot tragically spiraled into genuine danger, involving Shen Yu's obsession, Li Fengjie's illicit possession of the golden tablet, and the Ever-changing Master's grotesque pursuit of faces. Lu Lingfeng confronted Woody, accusing him of abduction for not returning Wu Yang home.

Wu Yang quickly interjected, asserting that her refusal to return was her own decision. Lu Lingfeng then pressed Woody on why he withheld information about Physician Bai's crimes, revealing his knowledge of Woody's visits to Physician Bai's residence. Wu Yang again intervened, claiming it was her idea to eliminate the Ever-changing Master, whom she knew as Physician Bai. Having overheard him mention his home, she suggested to Woody that they should kill him to prevent further harm to others.

They tracked him to the Ghost Market, where Wu Yang was horrified to witness the Ever-changing Master kill a girl her age. While Woody urged reporting the crime, Wu Yang saw an opportunity: she decided to switch her clothes with the deceased, faking her own death to ensure her mother believed she was gone forever. She affirmed that she personally changed the clothes, asking Woody to keep his distance, thus making him innocent of that particular act.

Woody, terrified, confirmed he only watched over her from afar. Lu Lingfeng, though serious, acknowledged Wu Yang's audacious courage in her desperate bid for freedom. Despite Wu Yang's earnest claims that she willingly accompanied Woody, Lu Lingfeng sternly declared that Woody's actions still constituted abduction under Tang law. Wu Yang knelt, desperately pleading for mercy for both herself and Woody.

She expressed a profound longing for a life of freedom, to marry and raise a family on her own terms, rather than being perpetually constrained by her mother's overwhelming love, even stating she would prefer death to such confinement. Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao, moved by Wu Yang's plight, interceded on their behalf, with Pei Xijun acknowledging Wu Yang's defiant spirit mirrored her own.

Chicken Fei offered practical support, giving Wu Yang his enhanced formula for the Fairy Beauty Powder, assuring her it would guarantee better sales than her mother's original. Lu Lingfeng, while upholding the law, ultimately chose compassion. He instructed Woody to meticulously document their entire story in Chang'an, read it to Wu Yang for her consent, and have both of them sign and fingerprint the document.

They were then to report to Judicial Official Ma Meng upon reaching Hanzhou Prefecture, who will determine their fate, implicitly offering a path to leniency. He also delivered a stern warning to Woody, emphasizing he must never betray Wu Yang. Just before their departure, Su Wuming paused them, inquiring about Wu Yang's hiding place in the preceding days.

Wu Yang gestured towards a humble abode and admitted that, despite Chang'an's secret agents actively searching for her, she had remained hidden directly across from her mother's skincare shop. She confessed to watching her mother, observing Chi Ying's initial desperate attempts to find her and her profound loneliness at night. Wu Yang waited until she saw her mother gradually adapt to a life without her, resuming her business.

Only then, convinced her mother had accepted her perceived death, did Wu Yang decide it was time to leave Chang'an. Su Wuming thoughtfully concluded that Wu Yang's departure was not fueled by hatred, but rather by the overwhelming nature of her mother's love.

As a parting message, Su Wuming encouraged the couple, telling them that the vast Tang Empire offered countless mountains and rivers for them to explore, and through these arduous journeys, they would undoubtedly grow into better versions of themselves. Chi Ying was overcome with joy upon learning her daughter was alive. She promptly closed her Meixiu Skincare Shop, purchased a horse and carriage, and set off for Hanzhou Prefecture to find Wu Yang.

Lu Lingfeng and his companions rode out of the city to see her off. Chi Ying explained her determination to go, believing Wu Yang, whom she felt was helpless, still needed her support. She hoped Hanzhou's remoteness would protect Wu Yang from being recognized for her resemblance to Empress Wu Zetian. Chi Ying admitted her past over-controlling nature but vowed to change, citing her responsibility to Wu Yang's father.

When Su Wuming suggested waiting, she refused, expressing fear that Woody might mistreat Wu Yang. Lu Lingfeng, though unable to legally prevent her journey, worried about her traveling alone. Chi Ying, however, declared her independence, recalling her solo journey to Chang'an while pregnant. As she departed, Su Wuming mused that this ordeal would undoubtedly change Chi Ying, helping her understand how to truly interact with her daughter, a sentiment Lu Lingfeng echoed.

Soon after, Xia Sheng, having disbanded his lion dance troupe and distributed his savings, also appeared, intent on pursuing Chi Ying on foot. Impressed by Xia Sheng's unwavering dedication to follow his heart, Lu Lingfeng generously gifted him his horse, urging him to catch up and protect Chi Ying. Later that evening, while dining, Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming discussed the upcoming Circuit Trials in Chonghua District.

Su Wuming suggested inviting Chicken Fei to join them, with Lu Lingfeng presiding over cases and Chicken Fei offering medical consultations. Chicken Fei initially demurred, citing his free-spirited nature and disdain for official protocols. However, Su Wuming expertly tempted him with the promise of a rare, special recipe Gourd Chicken, which an old friend would deliver to Chonghua District. Chicken Fei, unable to resist, promptly agreed.

The following day, as Lu Lingfeng conducted the Circuit Trials, Li Nai'er observed the proceedings. Lu Tong was also present, noting Li Nai'er's presence. Li Nai'er later reported to the Grand Princess, praising Chicken Fei's medical prowess and Lu Lingfeng's judicial acumen. The Grand Princess, pleased, revealed that Chancellor Cui had recommended Li Nai'er for the position of regimental commander of her guards.

The Grand Princess, expressing ambitions that paralleled Empress Wu Zetian's, offered Li Nai'er the promise of future promotion to Grand General of the Imperial Guards, tasked with commanding armies to expand the Tang Empire's borders and achieve unparalleled glory. Li Nai'er, though grateful, humbly declared her sole wish was to remain by the Princess's side. She also informed the Grand Princess that Lu Tong had accompanied Official Lu to the palace after the trials.

Meanwhile, Grand General Lu Tong, tasked with compiling a guest list for a banquet honoring Tang Long meritorious officials, located Lu Lingfeng. Su Wuming joined Lu Lingfeng at the imperial banquet, where the Emperor personally lauded Lu Lingfeng for his loyal protection three years prior and offered him any reward. To the court's surprise, Lu Lingfeng forewent personal gain, instead earnestly requesting His Majesty to visit Chengfo Temple.

When a minister questioned his seemingly inappropriate request, Lu Lingfeng boldly declared that as the Yongzhou Judicial Official, his first case involved Chengfo Temple, and its resolution was not merely about religious reverence but vital for the Tang Empire's stability. He warned that the rampant rumors and public unrest threatened the peace of Chang'an.

Episode 12 Recap

The Emperor hosted a banquet to reward the Tang Long meritorious officials, tasking Lu Tong with compiling the list of honors. Lu Tong sought out Lu Lingfeng, hoping he would seize this opportunity to regain his position in the Imperial Guards. However, Lu Lingfeng expressed no interest in personal advancement. Instead, he boldly addressed the Emperor, stating that the widespread rumors and public panic in Chang'an threatened the stability of the state.

He passionately urged the Emperor to personally visit Chengfo Temple, believing this action would dispel the rumors of demons and restore peace to the people. Attendant Yang attempted to interject, accusing Lu Lingfeng of outrageous remarks, but the Emperor, recalling their shared youth, dismissed the attendant and allowed Lu Lingfeng to continue.

The Emperor then offered to reinstate Lu Lingfeng to his former Imperial Guard post, but Lu Lingfeng respectfully declined, explaining that his current role as Yongzhou Judicial Official, despite its lower rank, was crucial. He felt that arresting criminals and ensuring the well-being of Chang'an's citizens was a direct way to serve the Emperor and wished to remain in this vital position.

The Emperor, acknowledging Lu Lingfeng's mentor, Master Di, and agreeing that Lu Lingfeng's talents were better suited for his current post, granted his request. The Emperor then announced that he would visit Chengfo Temple in three days. Meanwhile, Su Wuming visited Princess Longyou at her mansion, skillfully persuading her to also visit Chengfo Temple. He explained that although the temple had gained prominence after her invitation to Qin Xiaobai, its current abbot, Guangxiao, was suffering due to the recent scandal.

Su Wuming highlighted the persistent rumors of ghosts in Chang'an, despite official notices, and expressed concern that these tales could plunge the capital into chaos. He suggested that her personal visit to Chengfo Temple to offer incense would instantly dispel the prevailing gloom. When the Princess sought a reason for her visit, dismissing the idea of admiring the controversial "Subjugation of Devils" mural, Su Wuming temporarily faltered.

Princess Longyou then proposed a solution: she would bring the magnificent Seven-Colored Buddhist Robe, personally woven by Empress Wu Zetian and bestowed upon her, to Chengfo Temple for a month. This sacred artifact would be enshrined in the Great Buddha Hall for all devotees to admire, signifying a blessing for the people of Chang'an. She announced she would personally deliver it in three days. Three days later, the Emperor arrived at Chengfo Temple.

Abbot Guangxiao, caught by surprise, quickly welcomed him. Entering the Great Buddha Hall, the Emperor found Princess Longyou kneeling in quiet prayer. Although neither had expected the other's presence, the Princess quickly recovered, expressing her delight at his arrival. She then proudly presented the Seven-Colored Buddhist Robe, explaining its significance as a treasure personally woven by Empress Wu Zetian.

She elaborated on its intricate details, mentioning that it was crafted from seven distinct fabrics sourced from different regions across the land, believed to have gathered the spiritual essence of heaven and earth. Their interaction presented a harmonious picture of aunt and nephew. Du Ming, acting on imperial summons, brought Lu Lingfeng to the palace.

Along the way, he vehemently chastised Lu Lingfeng for failing to notify the Yongzhou Prefecture Office about the Emperor's visit to Chengfo Temple, which left him unprepared to properly welcome His Majesty. Upon their arrival, the Emperor dismissed Du Ming and offered Lu Lingfeng a drink. He then directly questioned Lu Lingfeng about whether the encounter with Princess Longyou at Chengfo Temple was a deliberate arrangement.

Lu Lingfeng denied any such intent, clarifying that the Emperor himself had chosen the date for the incense offering. The Emperor, pleased with Lu Lingfeng's response, revealed his joy, praising the magnificent Seven-Colored Buddhist Robe and expressing how his conversation with his aunt had made him feel like a child again. Concurrently, Princess Longyou, having also questioned Su Wuming about the Emperor's unexpected visit, interpreted it as an attempt at reconciliation from her nephew.

Delighted, she announced her decision to personally dispatch someone to return Empress Wu Zetian's stolen golden tablet to Junji Peak on Mount Song. In the following days, Chengfo Temple saw a surge of devotees eager to behold the Seven-Colored Buddhist Robe. Abbot Guangxiao gratefully welcomed Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao, crediting them, Lu Lingfeng, and Su Wuming for the temple's renewed glory.

However, Pei Xijun humbly attributed the success to the Emperor, the Princess, and the prosperity of the Tang Empire. Outside the Great Buddha Hall, Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao noticed a monk who bore a striking resemblance to Qin Xiaobai. Upon inquiry, the monk introduced himself as Kongliao. Chu Yingtao observed that while Qin Xiaobai exuded artistry, Kongliao's face radiated compassion.

Kongliao, who claimed to have walked from the shores of the Eastern Sea, prostrating every three steps for two years and nine months, was drawn to the grandeur of Chang'an and wished to reside at Chengfo Temple, offering to clean the Great Buddha Hall. Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao facilitated his introduction to Abbot Guangxiao, securing his stay at the temple.

Later, Kongliao was seen sitting alone in the Great Buddha Hall, deeply moved as he gazed at the murals, tears streaming down his face. Later that night, Lu Lingfeng found Pei Xijun still awake, lost in thought. She reflected on the day's encounter with Kongliao, musing that among the countless people in the world, there are often individuals who bear striking resemblances.

Lu Lingfeng, however, expressed his strong disagreement, emphatically stating that no one could ever be like Su Wuming, before launching into a frustrated complaint about his sworn brother. He recalled a recent incident where a hunter claimed to have seen a creature deep in Mount Zhongnan: a colossal beast with a tiger's head, lion's body, deer antlers, goat whiskers, and a segmented tail with three prongs. Pei Xijun immediately recognized the description as Bai Ze.

Du Ming, eager to report this sighting to the Emperor, was met with Lu Lingfeng's staunch opposition. Lu Lingfeng argued that Bai Ze was a mythical creature confined to ancient texts, its appearance in the real world impossible, suggesting the hunter’s account was likely a hallucination induced by fear and mountain mists.

To Lu Lingfeng's dismay, when Du Ming sought Su Wuming's opinion, his sworn brother casually agreed that since someone claimed to have seen it, it was suitable to report. This unexpected endorsement from Su Wuming angered Lu Lingfeng further. Pei Xijun, observing Lu Lingfeng's frustration, gently smiled and explained that Su Wuming was not being muddled but merely "going with the flow."

She pointed out Lu Lingfeng's excessive rigidity, reminding him that while Bai Ze might be a legend, its "appearance" was something the Emperor desired, making his stubbornness unhelpful. She acknowledged his dedication to seeking truth based on evidence but urged him to understand the nuances of officialdom. She stressed that even if Su Wuming had joined him in opposition, it wouldn't have prevented Du Ming from making the report.

Pei Xijun advised Lu Lingfeng to listen more to his sworn brother, Su Wuming, who, as his senior, was always looking out for him. Under her patient guidance, Lu Lingfeng gradually understood and felt his agitation subside. That night, two bandits broke into the Bai Ze Temple, tying up an elderly couple.

To deter them, the old man began telling a chilling tale about a seductive woman who, after feigning being lost, lured a scholar into her home only to reveal herself as a shadowless demon before being killed by him. The bandits, initially annoyed by the ghost story, were unnerved. While one bandit contemplated molesting the old woman, loud growling sounds suddenly echoed from outside.

The old man then revealed their identity: he was the Bai Ze Mountain Hermit, and his wife was A'Zi, both under the protection of the divine beast. He declared that the bandits had angered the divine beast and would be utterly destroyed. Terrified, the bandits attempted to attack the old man, but a mysterious force consumed them, leaving not a trace behind.

Du Ming presented his report to the Emperor regarding the appearance of Bai Ze, clarifying that while it wasn't the first sighting, it was the first detailed account matching the description of the auspicious beast. He further bolstered his claim by stating that Su Wuming, Master Di's erudite disciple, had unequivocally confirmed it to be Bai Ze. Initially, the Emperor expressed skepticism about such a significant claim based solely on a hunter's testimony.

However, reassured by Su Wuming's endorsement and the detailed description, he acknowledged that "Bai Ze has truly appeared in the world." His ministers, seizing the moment, showered him with congratulations, proclaiming the Bai Ze's appearance as an auspicious sign of a virtuous ruler and a harbinger of prosperity for the Tang Dynasty. The Emperor, though delighted, humbly attributed it to the virtues of the Retired Emperor.

He then expressed a desire to personally visit Mount Zhongnan to see the beast, but Lu Tong dissuaded him, citing the mountain's perilous terrain and his own impaired vision preventing him from acting as a substitute. Consequently, the Emperor entrusted the search for Bai Ze to the Yongzhou Prefecture, commanded by Du Ming, and offered immense rewards for its discovery. After receiving the imperial decree, Du Ming immediately summoned Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming.

He ordered Lu Lingfeng to lead a team into the mountains to search for Bai Ze. Lu Lingfeng flatly refused, citing his ongoing duties with the Mobile Court, which had yet to cover most of Chang'an's districts. Du Ming, however, stressed the Emperor's clear intent and warned that refusal would be defiance of an imperial order, also highlighting the immense reward as an opportunity he had secured for Lu Lingfeng.

Lu Lingfeng, in turn, angrily accused Du Ming of flattery and spouting nonsense. Su Wuming intervened, acknowledging Lu Lingfeng's youth and impulsiveness, and volunteered to go himself. Du Ming initially dismissed Su Wuming, given his lack of official rank, but conceded that the Emperor had allowed Su Wuming to join due to his knowledge, though Lu Lingfeng was still mandated to lead.

Du Ming reminded Lu Lingfeng that Su Wuming had confirmed the Bai Ze sighting, a point Su Wuming attempted to deny. Ultimately, Du Ming reiterated Lu Lingfeng's undeniable duty as Yongzhou Judicial Official and set their departure for the next morning, granting him authority to choose his team but warning of severe consequences should he disobey. That night, Lu Lingfeng, still fuming, refused to dine with the others and vented his frustration by practicing sword in the courtyard.

Pei Xijun found him there and gently persuaded him, acknowledging his integrity but explaining the importance of adapting to circumstances for the greater good of national peace. She also playfully reminded him that this trip could compensate for his recent busyness. Convinced by her words and his team's eager agreement, Lu Lingfeng finally relented. The next morning, Lu Lingfeng, Su Wuming, Pei Xijun, Chu Yingtao, Fei Jishi, and Xue Huan assembled.

Su Wuming quickly highlighted Pei Xijun's artistic skills for documenting the Bai Ze, and Fei Jishi's medical expertise for any mountain perils, while also emphasizing Chu Yingtao and Xue Huan's martial prowess. Du Ming, impressed by the formidable team assembled overnight, expressed his confidence and remained at the Yongzhou Prefecture. He then introduced Ling Ji, the hunter who first spotted the Bai Ze, as their guide, due to his extensive knowledge of Mount Zhongnan's terrain. With all arrangements made, the team departed for the mountains.

Episode 13 Recap

Lu Lingfeng was preparing to depart for Mount Zhongnan when Lu Tong arrived, delivering an imperial order. Lu Tong declared that Pei Xijun, Chu Yingtao, Fei Jishi, and Xue Huan were to remain in the city to assist with various matters. Lu Tong explained to Pei Xijun that the journey was too arduous for her, and he'd be held accountable to Minister Pei.

He claimed his eyes hurt and needed Fei Jishi to treat him, refusing to wait until their return. He deemed the expedition unsuitable for a woman like Chu Yingtao, despite her martial prowess. He also told Xue Huan, who insisted on protecting his master, to stay and perform his duties as a captain, threatening to punish him on Lu Lingfeng's behalf. Su Wuming expressed exasperation at the situation.

Lu Tong then announced that General Ding Heng of the Right Imperial Guards, Records Officer Chen He, Military Officer Wei Qi, and Cavalry Officer Huo You were to join the expedition, ostensibly to help Yongzhou Prefecture find the auspicious beast Bai Ze, stating this was also the Emperor's will. Chief Administrator Du had no objections. As the group left the city, Pei Xijun urged Lu Lingfeng to be careful. At the city gates, the Grand Princess's carriage was waiting.

Upon seeing Lu Lingfeng, she directly questioned his understanding of why the Emperor specifically tasked him with finding Bai Ze, given that Chief Administrator Du had appointed him. Lu Lingfeng remained silent. Su Wuming tried to sidestep the question by praising the Emperor's wisdom and Chief Administrator Du's trust in Lu Lingfeng but admitted he couldn't see anything more profound.

The Grand Princess, calling Su Wuming slick, then plainly laid out the situation: if Bai Ze was found, the credit would go to Yongzhou Prefecture; if not, the blame for insufficient effort would fall squarely on Lu Lingfeng. She dismissed Chief Administrator Du's attempt to interject. The Grand Princess emphasized that "auspicious signs concern the nation's fortune," expressing concern that someone might deceive the Emperor.

To prevent this, she announced the appointment of Li Nai'er as Commander of the Princess's Guards, ordering her to join the expedition and monitor the team, especially the Imperial Guards, to prevent deceit or actions against Heaven's will. When Chief Administrator Du questioned sending a woman, the Grand Princess invoked historical female figures like Princess Pingyang and Empress Wu Zetian, asserting that women were equally capable of witnessing auspicious events.

She stressed her determination to prevent fabricated lies that would deceive the Emperor and fool the populace. To further assist and serve as a guide, she assigned Huo Jing, a local hunter from Mount Zhongnan, to accompany Li Nai'er. The enlarged team departed. Days later, they arrived at Mount Zhongnan. The local hunter Ling Ji proposed taking the familiar, longer path up the mountain.

However, Huo Jing, another local hunter, immediately pointed out Heartbreak Cliff as a shortcut that would save two hours of travel, though it was steep. Huo You mocked Ling Ji for not suggesting the shortcut earlier. Su Wuming jokingly claimed Ling Ji was trying to spare a "weak scholar" like him. Lu Lingfeng adopted Huo Jing's suggestion, appointing her as the temporary guide to lead them via the shortcut.

General Ding Heng questioned why they were following the Princess's people, implying that "accidents" could be common on such perilous paths. They abandoned their horses and began the climb. Ling Ji warned that after ascending the steep cliff, they would face a stretch of narrow, treacherous path clinging to the cliffside, with a deep abyss below. Incensed that this wasn't disclosed earlier, Huo You whipped Ling Ji.

Huo Jing immediately stepped in, angrily rebuking Huo You for bullying the local hunter and warning him against pushing them too far. Huo You, enraged, drew his sword and attacked Huo Jing. Li Nai'er quickly intercepted, blocking Huo You's attack, and a fierce duel ensued. Su Wuming tried to de-escalate, praising both combatants. Lu Lingfeng intervened, ordering them to stop, reminding them they were a unified team on an imperial mission.

He ordered Huo You to apologize to Ling Ji, but Huo You defiantly refused. Su Wuming then cleverly suggested that General Ding and the Imperial Guards, with their superior martial arts, should lead, while he (claiming to be clumsy) would follow closely behind Li Nai'er, enabling Lu Lingfeng to cover the rear. In a hushed tone, Su Wuming told Lu Lingfeng to protect the two women from the Princess's Mansion at all costs. Lu Lingfeng agreed to the new formation.

Ling Ji led them up the steep cliff, the only way to proceed. During the climb, Su Wuming's foot slipped on moss, and he nearly fell into the chasm, but Lu Lingfeng swiftly pulled him back to safety. After reaching the top, a deep beastly roar echoed through the mountains. The four Imperial Guards excitedly assumed it was Bai Ze, but Huo Jing identified it as a tiger, warning them of its ferocity.

Chen He remarked that with tigers present, Bai Ze couldn't be far. Despite General Ding Heng's offer to lead, Lu Lingfeng insisted on taking point alongside General Ding, instructing Su Wuming and Li Nai'er to follow closely behind him. The sky grew dark, and heavy clouds gathered, signaling an approaching storm. Ling Ji predicted heavy rain within minutes, making the already dangerous path even more treacherous.

Su Wuming commented on the beauty of the "Mount Zhongnan before the rain" scene, wishing Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao were there to witness it. Lu Lingfeng decided to press on, instructing everyone to put on their rain gear and proceed with extreme caution on the slippery path.

As they navigated the narrow, single-file trail along the cliff edge, Military Officer Wei Qi subtly signaled Huo You, who then feigned needing to relieve himself and deliberately dropped to the back of the line. Shortly after, a terrified scream, accusing someone of being a "shameless scoundrel," was heard, followed by Huo Jing's desperate cries as she fell off the cliff. Li Nai'er tried in vain to save her.

Heartbroken and furious, Li Nai'er immediately drew her sword, accusing Huo You of pushing Huo Jing. Huo You vehemently denied it, claiming Huo Jing had slipped after attacking him when he approached. Li Nai'er vowed to avenge Huo Jing, engaging Huo You in a fierce battle. During their perilous duel, Li Nai'er lost her footing and nearly plunged into the abyss. Lu Lingfeng quickly grabbed her, pulling her back, then separated the two with his sword, forcefully halting their fight.

Su Wuming urged them to stop fighting, warning that the unstable ground could collapse at any moment, leading to dire consequences. Lu Lingfeng echoed this, advising them to prioritize finding a safe spot before continuing their dispute. Though Li Nai'er still demanded revenge, Lu Lingfeng's resolute warning against pointless death finally compelled her to temporarily suppress her anger. They found a nearby rock cave and built a fire for warmth and shelter from the intensifying rain.

While collecting dry branches in the surrounding woods, Military Officer Wei Qi stumbled upon a gruesome sight: a female corpse, crudely bound to a large rock, her face contorted in a horrifying expression. Terrified, he screamed about a ghost. The others rushed over. Records Officer Chen He made a flippant remark about the deceased woman's likely beauty in life. This callous comment reignited Li Nai'er's fury, further reminding her of Huo Jing's tragic fall.

She once again drew her sword, lunging at Huo You. Seeing Huo You was already injured, General Ding Heng offered to fight Li Nai'er in his place. Lu Lingfeng intervened for a third time, sternly stopping both sides and diffusing the renewed conflict, stressing the importance of their main mission. As the rain continued to worsen, Ling Ji mentioned an old temple nearby, although he didn't know its name and usually avoided it due to wild animals.

Lu Lingfeng decided they should head there for shelter. They soon arrived at the ancient temple, which Su Wuming noted seemed unusually grand and not an abandoned structure. Ling Ji confirmed it was inhabited by people who sometimes offered shelter to travelers. Impatient, Huo You pushed past Ling Ji and entered without knocking. An old woman, Zi, the temple master's wife, appeared, initially startling Huo You, who had to be ordered by Lu Lingfeng to put his sword away.

When Lu Lingfeng asked for shelter, Zi replied it depended on the temple master and refused to host those who didn't recognize their deity, explaining that everything in the temple was a divine gift. The temple master, Hermit Baize, then appeared and questioned them about the deity. When they couldn't name it, he again refused them. Su Wuming, recognizing the unique statue in the main hall (with a dragon's head, deer antlers, and wings), exclaimed it was Bai Ze.

He then eloquently recounted the history of the Bai Ze Temple, citing ancient texts. He explained that it was originally built during the Later Han Dynasty by people seeking a wise ruler during the Yellow Turban Rebellion, and later rebuilt by Emperor Yang of the Sui Dynasty as the only surviving temple of the Four Auspicious Beasts. Hermit Baize confirmed Su Wuming's knowledge, introducing himself and his wife Zi.

He stated that since they had entered the temple, they were no longer ordinary people, and promised that if they stayed for a few days, Bai Ze would appear when the weather cleared and golden light shone through the clouds. He also pointed out the temple's unusually tall gate, built specifically to accommodate the divine beast. The Imperial Guards were overjoyed and readily believed him, eager to pray.

Hermit Baize offered them clean rooms and promised food and wine, though he initially seemed hesitant to share his wine with strangers. He then invited them to listen to his "folk tales" while Zi prepared food. Chen He and Military Officer Wei Qi eagerly accepted, expressing their love for such stories.

Episode 14 Recap

Hermit Baize entertained the assembled group with his tales of fox spirits and demons. He particularly enjoyed one about a female demon seducing a scholar, only to discover the scholar was also a demon. Their conflict was ultimately resolved by a demon-slayer. As the story unfolded, the Imperial Guards reacted differently: Huo You was skeptical, Chen He expressed a wistful pity for the lady, and Wei Qi, though frightened, remained curious, while Ding Heng alone remained impassive.

Su Wuming, recalling his childhood love for such stories, eagerly asked the hermit which tale he would spin. Zi, Hermit Baize's wife, seized the opportunity to promote her wares, including oddly shaped cloth dolls and "Bai Ze Scrolls," which she claimed were ancient Western Zhou originals. She assured them the scrolls, priced at 90 cash, could ward off evil, a stark contrast to her 100-cash dolls, which were harder to sell.

Su Wuming, intrigued by the "Western Zhou original" claim, borrowed a scroll for closer examination, promising to buy it for a high price if it proved genuine. Meanwhile, Lu Lingfeng assessed the temple's vacant rooms for lodging. Wei Qi, unnerved by the stories, decided to retire to his allocated room in the west wing, a shared space for four. Li Nai'er, expressing no interest in demon tales, also withdrew.

Lu Lingfeng informed Ding Heng that the east wing was divided into two rooms: one for Li Nai'er and the other to be shared by himself and Su Wuming. He also arranged for their guide, Ling Ji, to lodge in the main hall. As the remaining group continued listening, a loud roar echoed through the temple. They rushed outside to investigate, but it was nothing more than a wild beast.

Hermit Baize reassured everyone that such sounds were common in the mountains, but a true anomaly would be the appearance of the scholar and lady from his story. No sooner had he spoken than a scholar, Shi, and his wife, Jiao, arrived, requesting lodging. The group was startled, but after confirming they were human, their apprehension eased. Jiao immediately recognized the Bai Ze statue in the hall, mentioning a similar one at home, and reverently bowed with her husband.

Chen He, captivated by Jiao's beauty, watched her with ill intent. After everyone settled, Hermit Baize resumed his tale, detailing the fierce struggle between the demon-slayer and the two cunning demons. The demons ultimately combined their power to kill the slayer, breaking his spine, and then fled hand in hand. Su Wuming offered his insight, identifying the creatures as "weight-bearing ghosts."

He explained that for such ghosts to return to the human world, they needed a substitute, who, if they died sitting, could find a new successor after three millennia. However, by breaking the slayer's spine, the demons ensured he died lying down, preventing him from ever reincarnating and thus allowing the ghosts to remain in the human realm forever. Hermit Baize commended Su Wuming's extensive knowledge. Su Wuming, however, remained skeptical about the actual existence of Bai Ze.

Hermit Baize recounted the history, beginning with the Yellow Emperor bringing a hundred Bai Zes from the Eastern Sea to his capital and distributing them. During the Western Zhou, King Mu used four Bai Zes to patrol Mount Zhongnan to purge it of demons, leaving them there to permanently suppress evil in Guanzhong. He concluded that these "divine beasts" were simply ancient, now-extinct animals, and their reappearance would not be extraordinary.

He defiantly offered to let them smash his temple if they failed to see a Bai Ze. Ding Heng and Huo You then decided to leave. Away from the main hall, Li Nai'er confronted Lu Lingfeng, accusing him of protecting Huo You and demanding justice for Huo Jing's death. Lu Lingfeng urged her to be patient, promising a thorough investigation upon their return to the capital, as the incident occurred within his jurisdiction.

Simultaneously, Ding Heng and Huo You discussed Huo Jing's death, with Ding Heng commending Huo You for eliminating one of the Princess's women. This conversation, overheard by Li Nai'er, enraged her, and she attacked Huo You. Ding Heng intervened, escalating the fight by attempting to kill Li Nai'er.

Lu Lingfeng swiftly stepped in, halting their combat and reminding them of their imperial mission, unaware that Ding Heng was operating under secret orders to assassinate Su Wuming, and that both Li Nai'er and Lu Lingfeng were also targets. Ding Heng disparaged women in military roles, solidifying his animosity towards Li Nai'er.

They conspired to kill Li Nai'er if she attacked again and spoke of Lu Lingfeng's "disloyalty" to the Emperor, suggesting his mother's identity as the Princess put him at odds with the throne. While the group was distracted, Wei Qi, eager to earn merit and believing in the hermit’s stories, ventured alone into the forest to search for Bai Ze, calling out to the deity and promising a golden statue in return for its appearance.

He encountered something in the woods. Back at the temple, Su Wuming purchased the Bai Ze Scroll for 90 cash, finally able to examine it in detail. Meanwhile, Chen He, emboldened by drink, openly flirted with Jiao, plying her with wine while Scholar Shi feigned drunkenness. Jiao, in turn, subtly encouraged Chen He, complaining about her husband's lack of hygiene. Chen He eventually led Jiao into a private room.

Later, Su Wuming, now in his room with Lu Lingfeng, reflected on the unsettling events and learned about the fight between Li Nai'er and Huo You, which he hadn't heard from the main hall. He also questioned Chen He's well-being. During the night, Lu Lingfeng intercepted Scholar Shi and Jiao as they attempted to leave, revealing his discovery of their elaborate ruse.

They were a pair of thieves who had used Jiao’s beauty to drug Chen He and steal his purse. Though Chen He's money was recovered, he was nowhere to be found, leaving only an empty bed. The next morning, the group discovered their guide, Ling Ji, dead by hanging in his room. Su Wuming, after a careful examination, confirmed it was a suicide, finding no external injuries.

Li Nai'er, however, deeply saddened, felt that his death was a tragic consequence of their "absurd expedition" and insisted on giving him a proper burial. With Lu Lingfeng's help, they laid Ling Ji to rest and erected a wooden marker for his tomb. Soon after, a scream from Ding Heng echoed through the forest. Rushing to the sound, they found a gruesome sight: the headless body of Wei Qi.

Episode 15 Recap

As Wei Qi's lifeless body was brought back into the temple, Su Wuming examined the grotesque wounds, noting the jagged broken bones and torn muscles. He declared that these injuries were not caused by any ordinary weapon, or even a weapon at all, leading him to believe the death was not by human hands. Xiao Jiao, visibly shaken, whispered that perhaps it was "that ghost." Ding Heng, however, immediately silenced her, telling Lu Lingfeng not to believe such "supernatural nonsense."

Su Wuming clarified that Xiao Jiao's specific phrasing, "that ghost," suggested she had seen something concrete. Xiao Jiao then revealed what she witnessed, describing a figure in white, about human height, with horns and fangs, strikingly similar to the Bai Ze statue in the temple. Su Wuming concluded that someone was "playing tricks to pretend to be a ghost" within the temple. He questioned Hermit Baize about hidden rooms or secret passages, which Hermit Baize adamantly denied.

However, upon seeing Wei Qi's corpse, Hermit Baize dramatically cried out that Wei Qi had angered Bai Ze and had his head bitten off by the deity. Lu Lingfeng dismissed this as "nonsense," arguing that Bai Ze, being an auspicious beast, would not harm humans. Despite Lu Lingfeng's skepticism, Ding Heng and Huo You grew visibly fearful, believing it was indeed the work of Bai Ze.

Hermit Baize then threatened that those who didn't believe would also have their heads bitten off. Later, the Stone Scholar and Xiao Jiao, who were tied up, desperately pleaded for each other's release. Xiao Jiao confessed that she had been defiled by a lustful man in the past, prompting her to vow to punish such men. She promised to marry anyone who helped her achieve her revenge, which is how she met the Stone Scholar.

She insisted that he was merely her accomplice. The Stone Scholar, in turn, tried to claim she was pregnant to elicit pity. Su Wuming observed their deep loyalty to each other. Seeing their devotion, Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming decided to release them. Lu Lingfeng advised them to go to Yongzhou Prefecture to confess their crimes, while Su Wuming specifically told Xiao Jiao to claim she was pregnant for a lighter sentence.

Overwhelmed with gratitude, the couple departed, promising to turn themselves in. Back in the temple, Su Wuming noticed that the kitchen was unusually warm despite the fire being extinguished. Sensing something amiss, he felt the floor, confirming the heat emanated from below. Outside, a beast's roar echoed. Lu Lingfeng went out to search, while Su Wuming, believing there was a secret chamber, stealthily located a hidden passage beneath the main hall's prayer mat and ventured in alone.

Meanwhile, Huo You, terrified, begged General Ding Heng to leave the temple. Ding Heng rebuked him for his cowardice, reminding him of their shared battles. Huo You, overwhelmed by fear, prostrated himself, pleading for his life and expressing his horror at having his head bitten off. When Ding Heng refused, Huo You panicked and bolted out of the temple. Just as he crossed the threshold, a white-robed, beast-masked woman appeared, swiftly decapitating him with a cold blade.

Deep within the secret passage, Su Wuming discovered several desiccated corpses, including that of Chen He, who had been dead for some time. The white-robed woman unexpectedly returned to the passage, but Su Wuming managed to hide just in time, avoiding detection. Simultaneously, Lu Lingfeng stormed into Hermit Baize's room, demanding that he and Zi submit to interrogation. Before they could respond, Ding Heng's mournful cry rang out.

Lu Lingfeng rushed outside to find Huo You's headless body, strikingly similar to Wei Qi's. Ding Heng recounted how Huo You, overcome with fear, had fled despite his scolding, and that he had attempted to secretly protect Huo You, only to find him dead upon exiting the temple. Su Wuming, having just emerged from the passage, concluded that someone was faking supernatural events, and there was more than one perpetrator.

Li Nai'er then appeared at the steps, coldly remarking on Huo You's death with satisfaction. Enraged by her callousness and the mounting deaths of his Imperial Guards, Ding Heng drew his sword to attack her. Lu Lingfeng intervened, blocking Ding Heng, but Ding Heng angrily warned Lu Lingfeng that the Emperor was testing his loyalty and, as fellow Right Imperial Guards, Lu Lingfeng should help eliminate the threat. During their skirmish, Lu Lingfeng once again protected Li Nai'er.

Su Wuming, rushing from the hall, shouted a warning to be wary of Li Nai'er, but before he could finish, Li Nai'er drew a dagger and plunged it into Lu Lingfeng's abdomen. Hermit Baize and Zi then shed their disguises. Huo Jing, previously thought to have died from a fall, dramatically reappeared. Seeing this, Ding Heng, still reeling from the shock, furiously accused Lu Lingfeng and Li Nai'er of being conspirators.

He vowed to defeat Li Nai'er and take her back to Chang'an for justice. However, Ding Heng was no match for the combined forces of Li Nai'er and Huo Jing. As Lu Lingfeng attempted to intervene, Zi swiftly launched a hidden weapon, throwing lime into Ding Heng's eyes, blinding him. Disoriented and defenseless, Ding Heng was brutally decapitated by Li Nai'er and Huo Jing working together.

Huo Jing, noticing Li Nai'er's repeated reluctance to deliver a fatal blow to Lu Lingfeng, questioned if Li Nai'er had developed feelings for him. She then turned her sword directly towards Lu Lingfeng's throat. Su Wuming bravely stepped in front of Lu Lingfeng, shielding him, while simultaneously unraveling the complex web of their grievances. He deduced that Li Nai'er, Huo Jing, and the deceased Ling Ji were fellow disciples.

Hermit Baize and Zi were not only their mentors but also Huo Jing's biological parents. Hermit Baize explained that he named his daughter Huo Jing because she was born under a Huo Jing persimmon tree, and her birth cured Zi's prior mental derangement. They had adopted Li Nai'er, who was the orphaned child of Lady Shangguan Wan'er. Their grand plan for revenge involved using Ling Ji to spread rumors of Bai Ze's presence to lure the Emperor.

Ling Ji, however, a "coward" in Huo Jing's words, refused to betray the Tang Dynasty and become a "loyal subject of the Li family," leading Huo Jing to sever ties with him. Li Nai'er revealed that she had once tried to persuade Huo Jing to reconcile with Ling Ji.

She recalled how Ling Ji's suicide was linked to their journey across Heartbreak Cliff, where a local legend states that lovers who cross it together are destined for an "end to their love." Huo Jing, showing no remorse for Ling Ji, declared his death a minor matter. She maintained that while their scheme failed to lure the Emperor, killing several Imperial Guard generals still amounted to significant revenge for Li Nai'er, making their lives meaningful.

Li Nai'er then revealed her true surname was Shangguan, not Li, identifying herself as Shangguan Nai'er, and explicitly stating that Lu Lingfeng was also complicit in her sister's (Shangguan Wan'er's) death during the Tanglong era, thus he too must die.

She passionately defended Shangguan Wan'er as the "Red Plum Chancellor," a virtuous and brilliant talent who greatly assisted Empress Wu Zetian and secretly protected the Li Tang royal lineage, yet was falsely accused of being part of the Wei family faction and tragically killed. Su Wuming expressed his profound sorrow over Lady Shangguan's death, acknowledging her immense contributions and confirming she was never part of the Wei family faction.

He noted her brave attempts to dissuade Emperor Zhongzong, even offering to become a nun and drinking poison to make her point, asserting that her efforts to preserve the Li Tang imperial family deserved to be recorded in history. He then pleaded with them, not out of fear for his own life, but out of concern for how they would face Lady Shangguan in the afterlife if they killed Lu Lingfeng, the son of the Grand Princess.

He recited the epitaph the State-guarding Grand Princess wrote for Lady Shangguan, emphasizing the deep bond between them. Huo Jing dismissed Su Wuming's words, accusing him of merely being afraid. She pointedly told Lu Lingfeng that if he were not so "good-looking," Li Nai'er's initial stab would have been fatal. Lu Lingfeng, gravely injured, vowed to avenge his Imperial Guard brothers. Zi urged Li Nai'er to join Huo Jing in the attack, questioning her wavering.

Desperate, Su Wuming shouted at them to stop, reiterating that Lu Lingfeng was truly the Princess's son and urging them not to make more mistakes. As they continued their assault, Su Wuming defiantly declared that he had "divine protection."

Episode 16 Recap

As Su Wuming and Lu Lingfeng faced dire straits, Chu Yingtao arrived with Xue Huan, Fei Jishi, Pei Xijun, and three constables. Zi, seeing her husband, Hermit Baize, injured, angrily lunged at Chu Yingtao, only to be killed in retaliation. Witnessing her mother's death, Huo Jing rushed forward and was also cut down by the combined efforts of the three constables. Overwhelmed by grief and rage, Hermit Baize summoned a monstrous beast with deer antlers and a tiger head.

While some speculated it was Bai Ze, Su Wuming recognized it as Ao Tian, a fierce creature that resembled Bai Ze but was known to eat mummified flesh, a detail he recalled from Hermit Baize's past actions and confirmed in the "Bai Ze Tu" scroll. Su Wuming quickly instructed Fei Jishi to use a dried beef leg laced with a potent poison as bait. With assistance from Jia and Luo, Fei Jishi scaled the roof.

Lu Lingfeng skillfully lured Ao Tian beneath the eaves, where Fei Jishi dropped the poisoned bait. Ao Tian devoured it, and the poison took effect, sending the beast into a frenzy. Hermit Baize attempted to control Ao Tian from its back, but the frenzied creature charged towards a cliff, leaping into the abyss and taking its master with it, killing both. Li Nai'er, having lost both her loved ones and her cause, was overcome with despair.

Lu Lingfeng, who was injured by her earlier, confronted her about her actions and the Princess Protector of the State's involvement. Li Nai'er refused to answer directly, telling him he would never know. Instead, she asked Lu Lingfeng to make a final request to the Princess: to be buried on the Hongdu Plain beside Shangguan Wan'er's tomb, with only a plain bluestone inscribed with "Daughter of Shangguan Wan'er."

With her final words, "Mother, I'm coming," she drew her sword and took her own life. Later, as Lu Lingfeng was carried down the mountain by the others, he saw Su Wuming standing alone by a cliff, gazing into the distance. Sensing his companion's contemplative mood, Lu Lingfeng observed that Su Wuming seemed to be contemplating retreating to the mountains.

Su Wuming acknowledged this insight and then seriously advised Lu Lingfeng that when they returned to the capital to report to the Emperor, they must only speak of the fierce beast Ao Tian. He emphasized that Li Nai'er's identity and connection to the Princess Protector of the State must not be mentioned to avoid escalating the conflict between the Emperor and the Princess, which could lead to chaos in Chang'an.

Lu Lingfeng, uncomfortable with lying to the Emperor, offered to let Su Wuming report on his behalf since his injuries made him unable to appear before His Majesty. However, Lu Lingfeng insisted he still needed to directly question the Princess Protector of the State about her involvement, stating he couldn't remain in the dark about someone he felt so close to, yet so distant from.

Upon returning to Chang'an, Su Wuming entered the palace to report to the Emperor, skillfully omitting any truth regarding Li Nai'er. He vividly recounted the battle, portraying the deceased Imperial Guards and Li Nai'er as courageous heroes who fought Ao Tian to their deaths.

He then dramatically described a miraculous event: after Ao Tian's demise, the clouds parted, golden light shone, and the auspicious calls of a Bai Ze resonated through Mount Zhongnan, bringing a sense of peace and healing even to the severely wounded Lu Lingfeng. This narrative, while entirely fabricated in parts, served to restore imperial dignity. The Emperor, initially suspicious, found no clear falsehoods and was swayed by the tale's implication of an auspicious omen.

He shifted blame to Du Ming for mismanagement of Mount Zhongnan and ordered him to oversee the honorable burial of the four Imperial Guards on the mountain, which served as a form of atonement. Meanwhile, the Princess Protector of the State, having learned of Lu Lingfeng's severe injuries, rushed to his residence. She was relieved to find him out of immediate danger.

She praised Li Nai'er's courage in battling four Imperial Guards, but declared her death justified for having wounded her son. Lu Lingfeng, still seeking answers, pressed his mother to confirm whether Li Nai'er's actions were carried out under her command. The Princess Protector of the State subtly evaded the question, instead recounting the life of Shangguan Wan'er, a brilliant scholar and her close friend, who suffered a tragic death due to political machinations more sinister than any demon.

She revealed that she buried Wan'er in her private tomb and inscribed a 982-character epitaph, deliberately including her own name to publicly accuse the Emperor of wrongfully executing a loyal official. Though Lu Lingfeng continued to demand a direct answer, the Princess Protector of the State maintained her indirect denial, implying that if she had ordered it, Lu Lingfeng himself would not have been harmed.

Feeling somewhat reassured by his mother's indirect denial, Lu Lingfeng knelt and pleaded with her to withdraw from court politics and enjoy a peaceful old age, rather than competing with the Emperor. The Princess Protector of the State rejected his plea, questioning why a woman could not seek power.

She declared that, having been born into the unique imperial family and tutored by Empress Wu Zetian, she aspired to emulate her mother in reforming the court and bringing prosperity to the people. She dismissed Lu Lingfeng's mention of the auspicious Bai Ze as the Emperor's attempt to deceive the populace. She asserted that the current Emperor lacked Empress Wu Zetian's insight to recognize and utilize talent, which would ultimately lead to the decline of the Tang Empire.

The Princess Protector of the State concluded by stating that if she were to ever confront the Emperor, it would be for the survival of the Tang Empire, and reminded Lu Lingfeng that as her son, his allegiance, regardless of which side he chose, must always be to the welfare of the nation and its people. Later, the Emperor awoke from a vivid nightmare, where venomous snakes crawled out from old official reports written by Shangguan Wan'er.

Troubled, he wondered if he had wrongfully executed a loyal official. He summoned Yin, a palace attendant, who confirmed she had worked in Shangguan Wan'er's Ink Rhyme Pavilion for three years from the age of eight. Yin spoke highly of Shangguan Wan'er's integrity, recounting her mentor's teaching that one should never let personal interests taint one's work, just as cinnabar should not stain one's sleeves.

Yin also mentioned that after Wan'er's punishment, she refused calming incense, stating that only those with guilty consciences needed such aids, and she preferred to remain awake to atone for her sins. This revelation made the Emperor reflect on his own daily reliance on medicine to sleep peacefully, causing him to question his own conscience. Meanwhile, the Princess Protector of the State was still consumed by grief for Shangguan Wan'er.

She angrily confronted Chancellor Cui, accusing him of knowing Li Nai'er's true identity and vengeful plans when he recommended her to the Princess's Mansion. Chancellor Cui, while not directly admitting to prior knowledge, affirmed his unwavering loyalty to the Princess Protector of the State, even facing death if necessary.

He congratulated her, noting that rumors were already spreading in Chang'an about Bai Ze's disappearance being a warning that the Emperor was unworthy, and that the Imperial Guards' deaths had become a public mockery. The Princess Protector of the State, initially enraged, eventually calmed as Chancellor Cui advised her to learn from Empress Wu Zetian's decisive actions, stressing that to achieve great things, even close relatives who impede her path must be eliminated.

The Princess Protector of the State then agreed with Chancellor Cui's plan to politically maneuver Du Ming, the capital official, out of Chang'an, leveraging his earlier misjudgment regarding the "auspicious beast" as an opportunity.

Episode 17 Recap

Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming bid farewell to Du Ming, who was demoted to Ninghu for dereliction of duty, a move orchestrated by the Princess. Despite feeling wronged, Du Ming maintained a cheerful demeanor, looking forward to his new posting. Su Wuming sarcastically commented on Ninghu's prosperity and its crocodiles, to which Du Ming playfully accused him of being a fraud for deceiving the Emperor.

Before leaving, Du Ming praised Lu Lingfeng as a true gentleman, capable in both civil and military arts, and a rare talent. He expressed his belief that Lu Lingfeng should have succeeded him as Chief Administrator of Yongzhou. Du Ming also mentioned his past service under Master Di and stated his confidence in finding his purpose in Ninghu.

After Du Ming's departure, Su Wuming reflected on the Emperor’s shrewdness, noting how he leveraged a crisis to his advantage, proving himself to be no ordinary ruler. In the palace, the Emperor lamented the difficulty of filling the vacant Yongzhou Chief Administrator position, especially after Du Ming, who had recently sided with him, was removed from the capital.

An Attendant, Yang Xu, seized the opportunity to recommend Xiong Qiannian, assuring the Emperor that Xiong Qiannian had kept to himself since returning to Chang'an, avoiding any contact with the Princess’s faction. The Emperor, realizing Xiong Qiannian's suitability, promptly issued an edict appointing him as the Chief Administrator of Yongzhou, responsible for critical judicial affairs in the capital region.

Upon taking office, Xiong Qiannian, acting on Yang Xu's subtle instruction that Su Wuming was aligned with the Princess, immediately began to undermine Su Wuming's authority. He questioned Su Wuming's official status, stating that the position of Criminal Investigation Scholar, bestowed by the Princess, was not recognized by the Ministry of Personnel. Although Lu Lingfeng tried to defend Su Wuming, Xiong Qiannian reiterated that while Su Wuming could continue as Chief of Secret Agents, his previous role was invalid.

Su Wuming, discerning Xiong Qiannian's intent to render him powerless, merely excused himself from the Yongzhou Prefecture Office, stating he had personal matters to attend to. That night, Hongyao, after finishing her makeup, mounted a large jar and flew into the sky for a secret rendezvous with her lover in the countryside. Her husband, Meng Buyi, was hidden inside the jar, accompanying her unbeknownst to her.

When they arrived, Meng Buyi, concealed in the grass, watched Hongyao embrace Yan Junxian, their intimate whispers fueling his rage. He leaped out, shouting at them, but as Yan Junxian turned, Meng Buyi was startled by a stiff, wooden puppet face, waking him from his nightmare. Meng Buyi, a Secretary in the Ministry of Revenue, was an avid enthusiast of the supernatural.

He frequently wrote strange tales during his night shifts at the county office, and his work, "Strange Tales of the Divine Capital," was widely circulated and well-received by the public. A senior clerk brought Meng Buyi tea and snacks, and shared a story about a snake demon, suggesting it would be a good addition to Meng Buyi's collection of strange tales. With his monthly salary reduced and his Criminal Investigation Scholar title revoked, Su Wuming faced financial hardship.

He decided to write strange tales to earn money, proudly presenting his work. However, Lu Lingfeng disapproved, reminding Su Wuming that as Master Di's disciple and Chief of Secret Agents, his duty was to protect the capital, not to write "ghost stories to fool children." Su Wuming argued that he needed a livelihood and that his stories appealed to a wider audience, but Lu Lingfeng firmly stated that such a path was unsuitable for him.

Seeing their predicament, Pei Xijun proposed an idea she had long harbored: introducing sushan, a dessert from Dunhuang, to Chang'an by opening a specialized shop. She suggested several bustling locations and spoke of innovating the sushan recipes with local seasonal fruits. Recognizing the exorbitant cost of living in Chang'an, Pei Xijun offered to sell one of her properties to fund the venture, surprising everyone with the revelation that she owned multiple residences in prime districts.

She clarified that these were acquired through prudent investment of ancestral assets, not from any ill-gotten gains by her father. Lu Lingfeng, concerned that Pei Xijun's noble lineage from the Pei family of Hedong might suffer if she engaged in commerce, deemed it inappropriate for her to be the shop owner.

Su Wuming considered taking on the role but was dissuaded by Lu Lingfeng, who pointed out that a Chief of Secret Agents needed to remain anonymous, a difficult feat if he became a public shopkeeper. Ultimately, Chicken Fei volunteered to be the shop's proprietor. The group agreed, and Chicken Fei named the establishment the "Liuhe Sushan Shop."

Lu Lingfeng gently corrected Chicken Fei's use of a common phrase for 'booming business,' as it contained the word 'Xinglong,' a taboo imperial name. Upon learning that Xiong Qiannian had aligned with the Emperor and removed Su Wuming from the Yongzhou Prefecture Office, the Princess was furious. Chancellor Cui suggested that Su Wuming was untrustworthy and unworthy of her patronage.

However, the Princess saw Su Wuming's current predicament as an opportunity to win his loyalty through a significant appointment in her mansion. To her surprise, she then learned that Su Wuming had abandoned officialdom and become a merchant. The "Liuhe Sushan Shop" soon opened with much fanfare. Chicken Fei, flustered, struggled with his opening speech, prompting Pei Xijun to step forward.

She passionately described sushan as a delightful, cooling, and even health-boosting delicacy, assuring the skeptical crowd, who suspected it was merely crushed ice and a scam to sell medicine, of its quality and legitimacy by presenting all their business permits from various government offices. The Princess then made an unexpected appearance. She sternly questioned Su Wuming's commitment to serving the Tang Empire, mistaking him for the shop's owner. Su Wuming clarified that Chicken Fei was the true proprietor.

Recognizing Chicken Fei as the man who had saved her life in Luoyang, the Princess publicly honored him with the title "Chicken Master of Tang," decreeing that local officials throughout the empire must present him with a chicken wherever he traveled. She then entered the shop to taste the sushan. After trying it, she praised its "special" and "wonderful" flavor, immediately swaying the hesitant crowd, who eagerly rushed to purchase the dessert.

Later, the Princess summoned Su Wuming and offered him prestigious positions within her mansion, including Consultant Official, Chief Administrator, or even Princess's Consultant. Su Wuming respectfully declined, explaining that he could not abandon Lu Lingfeng, who, despite establishing the Mobile Court to serve the people, faced an overwhelming backlog of cases in the vast capital.

Su Wuming expressed his commitment to remain by Lu Lingfeng’s side as Chief of Secret Agents, offering advice and support to prevent him from collapsing from overwork. The Princess, though suspecting his refusal stemmed from fear of offending the Emperor, accepted his rationale. She acknowledged Lu Lingfeng's need for such assistance and predicted that both men would rise to prominent positions in due course.

Before her departure, the Princess called Pei Xijun over and advised her that while Lu Lingfeng might appear reserved and unromantic, he was a man of deep loyalty and integrity. She reassured Pei Xijun that Lu Lingfeng would always treat her well, despite their occasional quarrels. Meanwhile, in Qinglong District, Lu Lingfeng was setting up his Mobile Court to hear cases.

However, he found that no one was coming forward with disputes; instead, the residents were abandoning their lawsuits to gather and watch Hongyao, a renowned former courtesan from Pingkang District, perform on her pipa. Seeing the peace and the general excitement, Lu Lingfeng decided to join the crowd to enjoy Hongyao's performance.

Episode 18 Recap

As Hongyao played her pipa, filling the Qinglong District with music, a sudden and violent hailstorm erupted, scattering the crowd. Hongyao sought refuge in the Rain God Temple, where she was met by Qian Zheng, who had come to find her, expressing concern for her getting caught in the rain.

He tried to draw her close, but she rebuffed his advances, reminding him that she was a married woman and threatening to report him to the district head if he continued to harass her. She then snatched his umbrella and left him, drenched and bewildered, convinced she had found a new lover and vowing to uncover his identity. Returning home, Hongyao was startled to find a young man with striking white hair inside her house.

He introduced himself as A-Jiang, a "house-squatter" who temporarily occupied vacant homes without stealing, meticulously observing the residents' routines. Convinced of his unusual but harmless profession, Hongyao saw an opportunity. She offered him a silver ingot as an advance, promising another upon completion, if he would kill Zhang San, the owner of a local mutton soup shop. A-Jiang, initially reluctant, was swayed by the substantial reward.

Driven by his suspicions, Qian Zheng secretly hired a renowned investigator named Old Cat to dig into Hongyao's affairs. Unbeknownst to Qian Zheng, Old Cat was Meng Buyi in disguise, who was already harboring doubts about his wife's fidelity. Qian Zheng’s account of Hongyao’s recent coldness, her refusal of intimacy, and her mention of her husband at the Rain God Temple only fueled Meng Buyi's growing belief that his wife was unfaithful.

Meng Buyi accepted the task, promising to deliver a report in three days. During this period, a distracted Meng Buyi encountered his former classmate, Yan Junxian, now a respected deputy chief imperial physician and master of a medicinal herb garden. Yan Junxian, noticing Meng Buyi's troubled demeanor, inquired about his well-being and a calming medicine he had prescribed. Meng Buyi, offering a familiar, unfulfilled promise of treating Yan Junxian to a drink "another day," hastily excused himself.

Three days later, the senior clerk found Meng Buyi still at the county office at dawn, engrossed in writing his "Strange Tales," and urged him to go home to his wife. However, Meng Buyi, having completed his investigation as Old Cat, did not go home. Instead, he covertly headed to the Ghost Market, inquiring after the assassin Hu Shentong.

He was informed that Hu Shentong had already left to carry out the very task Meng Buyi had commissioned in his disguise. Meanwhile, business was booming at the Liuhe Sushan shop, where Su Wuming was struggling to keep up as a waiter. Old Luo arrived with an urgent message from Lu Lingfeng: due to all Yongzhou Prefecture Office coroners being dispatched to outer counties, Su Wuming's expertise was urgently needed for a murder case in Qinglong District.

Excited by the call to investigate, Su Wuming quickly gathered his tools and, accompanied by Chu Yingtao, rushed to the crime scene. At the Meng Residence, a large crowd had gathered, among them a visibly anxious Qian Zheng, worried for Hongyao. Su Wuming noticed A-Jiang, the white-haired house-squatter, among the onlookers but paid him little mind.

Inside, Mr. Guang, the district head, explained he had discovered the body of Zhang San, the local mutton soup vendor, a man known for his cunning and unsavory character, after finding the Meng Residence door ajar. Su Wuming’s examination of the body concluded that Zhang San had died around midnight from a fatal neck wound, likely inflicted by a small, sharp object such as scissors.

He also noted facial bruises and strangulation marks on the neck that were not consistent with a rope. Meng Buyi soon arrived at his residence, frantically calling for Hongyao, only to learn of her disappearance. When questioned by Lu Lingfeng, he claimed he had been on night duty at the county office and then visited the Ghost Market to buy Yangzhou Liuhe paper for his "Strange Tales" writing, denying he had been home or knew Zhang San.

However, Lu Lingfeng discovered several white hairs on the bed, which prompted Su Wuming to recall A-Jiang. Recognizing the significance of this, Lu Lingfeng immediately ordered his constables to find A-Jiang. Meng Buyi, distraught, pleaded with the officials to search for his missing wife. Xue Huan, analyzing the case, theorized that Hongyao was involved.

He suggested Zhang San, intending to steal, might have been hiding in a cabinet and was discovered and killed by Hongyao with scissors, after which she fled with the weapon to avoid prosecution. Su Wuming, however, challenged this theory, pointing to a knife found at the scene, the unexplained white hairs, and the unusual nature of the strangulation marks on Zhang San’s neck, none of which fit Xue Huan's narrative. A-Jiang was soon apprehended and brought in for interrogation.

Confronted with the white hairs, A-Jiang admitted they were his and explained his house-squatter lifestyle. When Lu Lingfeng artfully led him to speak about Zhang San's death without explicitly naming the victim, A-Jiang, realizing his deception was exposed, confessed everything. He revealed that Hongyao had offered him two silver ingots to kill Zhang San, but he, a novice, hesitated.

Zhang San, upon discovering A-Jiang's butcher knife and silver ingot, had disarmed him and taken the money, mocking him as an "assassin." A-Jiang, humiliated, then secretly followed Zhang San to the Meng Residence, suspecting him of theft. A-Jiang recounted observing Meng Buyi returning home that night by scaling a wall, leaving shortly after with a roll of paper and neglecting to close the front door.

About half an hour later, A-Jiang witnessed Hongyao and Yan Junxian rushing out of the Meng Residence in a panic. Peering inside, A-Jiang saw Zhang San lying dead on the ground, initially without visible wounds. To his horror, A-Jiang then saw Hongyao return to the house, armed with a pair of scissors, and repeatedly stab Zhang San.

Despite A-Jiang's detailed account, Lu Lingfeng found no corroborating evidence and ordered A-Jiang detained for further investigation, sternly warning him about the severe penalties for fabricating testimony. In a desperate attempt to deal with his escalating problems, Meng Buyi returned to the Ghost Market, but Hu Shentong was still unavailable. He then tried to hire other assassins, initially asking them to merely "find someone." The assassins, insulted by what they perceived as a mockery of their profession, became violent.

Meng Buyi quickly clarified that he needed help locating his target, whom he intended to kill or hire them to kill once found. A heated argument over payment ensued, with the assassins demanding half the usual fee for a full assassination, while Meng Buyi insisted on a much lower rate. As the dispute turned dangerous, Xue Huan, who had been secretly tailing Meng Buyi under Su Wuming's instructions, intervened, identifying himself as a captain of the Yongzhou Prefecture Office. The assassins scattered, and Meng Buyi seized the opportunity to escape in the ensuing chaos.

Episode 19 Recap

Hu Shentong, proclaiming himself the top assassin of Chang'an’s Ghost Market, dramatically entered a silk shop and attacked its owner, Qian Zheng. Chu Yingtao intervened, demanding to know the reason for the assault and the employer’s identity. Hu Shentong, citing professional rules, refused to disclose his client. Initially, Qian Zheng resisted accompanying Chu Yingtao to the Yongzhou Prefecture Office, claiming busy business, but quickly relented when Chu Yingtao suggested allowing the assassin to continue his deadly work.

Both men were then taken to the office. At the public court, Hu Shentong remained silent. Su Wuming, knowing Hu Shentong's ambition, threatened to have him expelled from the Ghost Market by the newly appointed Magistrate, Master Feng Tai. Panicked, Hu Shentong admitted that he often failed assassinations but made attempts after collecting deposits, even boasting he was the "cheapest assassin." Qian Zheng, still bound, complained he was an innocent victim.

When presented with a portrait of Hongyao, both denied knowing her. However, Qian Zheng later admitted he knew Hongyao and had hired a household spy named "Old Cat" to investigate her new lover, explaining that his business rules prevented him from knowing the spy's true identity. Pei Xijun, after reviewing the descriptions provided by Hu Shentong and Qian Zheng, shrewdly observed underlying similarities, deducing that they were describing the same person, albeit disguised.

She offered to draw a new portrait revealing the person's true face without the suspected false beard. Upon seeing Pei Xijun's completed drawing, Xue Huan immediately recognized the man as Meng Buyi. Lu Lingfeng promptly ordered Meng Buyi's secret arrest, although Xue Huan reported losing track of him in the Ghost Market shortly after. Meanwhile, Meng Buyi visited Yan Junxian’s herb garden, seeking information about Hongyao.

He was troubled by Zhang San’s death in his home and wondered if Hongyao had been unfaithful. Meng Buyi then confronted Yan Junxian about his past relationship with Hongyao, questioning why he had left her after receiving his official appointment. As Yan Junxian was about to speak, he saw his servant, Ming Shi, approaching with tea and hastily changed his story, explaining that he was young at the time, feared romance would jeopardize his career, and now regretted his decision.

Meng Buyi pressed further, implying that Hongyao's recent disappearance might be linked to Yan Junxian's return. Yan Junxian vehemently denied hiding Hongyao and launched into a tirade, criticizing Meng Buyi's unranked secretarial position at the Ministry of Revenue and his preoccupation with writing "Strange Tales" instead of advancing his career. He stated that Hongyao felt "aggrieved" by her marriage to Meng Buyi, whose failure to bribe the chief examiner had stalled his promotion.

On his way home, Meng Buyi was apprehended by Xue Huan and brought before the public court. There, both Hu Shentong and Qian Zheng identified Meng Buyi as their shared employer and spy, confirming Pei Xijun's deduction. Meng Buyi and Qian Zheng engaged in a heated exchange, with Meng Buyi accusing Qian Zheng of seducing his wife, and Qian Zheng retorting that Meng Buyi's neglect was the cause of Hongyao's unhappiness.

Lu Lingfeng then confronted Meng Buyi, accusing him of murdering Hongyao. Ah Jiang, a "white-haired" squatter from Meng Buyi's house, testified that he had seen Meng Buyi climb over his own wall the previous night and later leave through the front door, carrying papers. Meng Buyi vehemently denied Ah Jiang's claims, citing a senior clerk at the Ministry of Revenue as his alibi for being on night duty.

Challenging the court's authority to detain him without proof, Meng Buyi defiantly left the office to find his wife himself. Lu Lingfeng immediately instructed Xue Huan to continue shadowing him. Lu Lingfeng, trusting Ah Jiang's account, instructed him to provide a detailed description of the man who had fled with Hongyao to Pei Xijun for a new portrait. Meanwhile, Su Wuming, despite his admiration for Meng Buyi's literary talent, agreed to verify the alibi.

At the Ministry of Revenue, the senior clerk confirmed Meng Buyi’s night duty, recounting how he had spent three consecutive nights telling Meng Buyi long "snake demon stories." The clerk proudly asserted his "unmatched" alcohol tolerance. To test this, Su Wuming invited him to a drinking contest at the Sushan Shop with its owner, Fei Jishi. However, the clerk quickly succumbed to intoxication after just two bowls, much to Fei Jishi's chagrin.

Su Wuming rebuffed Fei Jishi’s subsequent request to manage the shop, declaring his belief that the clues to the case lay hidden within Meng Buyi's "Strange Tales." Simultaneously, Pei Xijun completed the new portrait based on Ah Jiang's description, depicting a man in a light crimson official robe, indicating a fifth-rank official. Acting on Pei Xijun’s advice, drawing from her father’s experience as a Vice Minister, they decided to visit the Ministry of Personnel to identify him.

In the herb garden, Yan Junxian frantically searched for Hongyao, then confronted his servant, Ming Shi, accusing him of her disappearance. Ming Shi revealed his true dominance, chastising Yan Junxian for his infatuation and reminding him that it was his strict tutelage that propelled Yan Junxian from his humble origins as "Moorhen" in Lingnan to an official post.

Ming Shi commanded Yan Junxian to devote himself to cultivating gastrodia for the Emperor, threatening to strip him of his privileged eighth-rank position (treated as a fifth-rank) if he disobeyed. Ming Shi then laid bare his grand design: for Yan Junxian to ascend to the rank of Chancellor, enabling Ming Shi to become the "shadow ruler of Chang'an."

Overwhelmed by the humiliation, Yan Junxian lashed out, but Ming Shi quickly reasserted his authority by calling him by his old name, "Moorhen." Witnessing this disrespect, other servants assaulted Ming Shi. Yan Junxian, feigning intervention, then privately proposed to Ming Shi that they return to a simpler life in Lingnan, but Ming Shi scorned the idea. Soon after, Lu Lingfeng and Pei Xijun arrived at the herb garden and presented Yan Junxian with Pei Xijun's portrait.

Lu Lingfeng explained it was based on an eyewitness's description in a murder case and requested his cooperation. Sensing Yan Junxian's reluctance, Lu Lingfeng escorted him to the Yongzhou Prefecture Office, insisting the herb garden be searched first. Just as they arrived, Meng Buyi appeared, loudly striking the drum to report a case. In court, Pei Xijun advised interrogating both men together.

Meng Buyi confessed that he had indeed returned home the previous night, having supplied the senior clerk with wine that rendered him unconscious, allowing Meng Buyi to retrieve paper for his writing. He recounted finding Hongyao, who accused him of deception regarding his low-ranking status and demanded a divorce to reunite with Yan Junxian. Meng Buyi then asserted that he had seen a pair of brown boots under the bed, confirming Yan Junxian's presence.

Realizing the portrait had exposed him, Yan Junxian admitted to being there. Enraged, Meng Buyi physically attacked Yan Junxian, who defiantly declared that Hongyao was "his to begin with." Lu Lingfeng swiftly intervened, ordering the two men to be separated.

Episode 20 Recap

In court, Yan Junxian recounted his past with Hongyao. Seven years ago, right before the imperial exam, he and his classmates went to Pingkang District to unwind. There, he met the courtesan Hongyao and fell in love with her. He claimed Hongyao never looked at Meng Buyi, who was merely a poor and stingy country snake catcher before coming to Chang'an. Meng Buyi, enraged, accused Yan Junxian of abandoning Hongyao.

Yan Junxian admitted he didn't take Hongyao with him because he had spent heavily bribing the chief examiner and feared for his career, leaving him with no funds to buy her freedom. He regretted his youthful carelessness. Meng Buyi then explained that he rescued Hongyao when she attempted to drown herself. Hongyao accepted his proposal, and they married. However, their marriage quickly soured.

Hongyao, from her background as a pipa player, loved lively environments, while Meng Buyi was a quiet man obsessed with writing strange tales, lacking any romantic flair. Their differences led to constant quarrels. After moving to Chang'an, Meng Buyi, being frugal, often declined Hongyao's requests to explore the city, citing work. His suspicions grew, and he began to believe Hongyao's old feelings for Yan Junxian were rekindling, causing him to lose sleep.

Yan Junxian confessed that Hongyao had indeed invited him to her home to ask for his help in getting Meng Buyi promoted from a clerk to an official. Their old feelings resurfaced, and they were about to be intimate when Zhang San, a mutton soup seller from Qinglong District, unexpectedly arrived. Yan Junxian hastily hid under the bed. Zhang San, a former patron of Hongyao who was now penniless, demanded money from her, threatening to strangle her.

Just then, Meng Buyi returned home. To avoid being caught, Zhang San hid in a wardrobe. From his hiding spot, Yan Junxian overheard clanging noises and Zhang San's low groans coming from inside the wardrobe. Terrified, Yan Junxian and Hongyao fled the house together. Upon hearing both testimonies, Pei Xijun remarked that the case was intriguing, with some parts clear and others deeply hidden. Lu Lingfeng agreed that both Yan Junxian and Meng Buyi seemed to be holding back information.

Since there was no substantial evidence against either, they were released for the time being. Lu Lingfeng instructed for a hundred copies of Hongyao's portrait, which Pei Xijun had drawn, to be distributed to night shift officers across Chang'an to aid in the search. Meanwhile, Su Wuming, after pondering an account of a snake demon in Meng Buyi's collection of strange tales, concluded that Zhang San was likely strangled by a snake.

He went back to Meng Buyi's house with Fei Jishi and found snake scales in the wardrobe. Su Wuming theorized that a purple snake had attacked Zhang San in the wardrobe, coiling around his neck until he lost consciousness and fell out, which explained why the blade he held had no blood on it. Lu Lingfeng praised Su Wuming's deduction, noting that it aligned with Yan Junxian's account of noises from the wardrobe.

Su Wuming then shared his findings about the "Perfect Purple" snake from Dongyi Island, whose gallbladder was a rare medicinal herb said to possess life-saving properties, especially when extracted from a sixty-year-old snake whose tongue turned purple. Fei Jishi confirmed this, recalling his old mentor using a "Perfect Purple" to revive someone from death's door. Pei Xijun also remembered that Meng Buyi was a snake catcher by trade.

Recognizing that Meng Buyi would likely deny any involvement without irrefutable proof, the team decided to split up: one group would investigate pharmacies for clues about the snake gallbladder, while the other would go to the Imperial Academy of Medicine, where Yan Junxian served as deputy chief physician, in case he had relevant information. At the Imperial Academy of Medicine, Yan Junxian initially denied knowing anything about purple snakes.

However, under questioning, he admitted that the Palace Secretariat had sent a purple snake to the herb garden earlier that year, as part of their spring clearing of snakes along the Qu River for the Emperor's safety. He explained that no one in the garden knew how to care for it, and it eventually disappeared, presumably escaping into the nearby Qu River two months prior. He also mentioned prescribing sleep-inducing herbs for Meng Buyi around that time.

When Lu Lingfeng pressed him about Hongyao's disappearance, Yan Junxian became agitated and threatened to complain directly to the Emperor. Pei Xijun subtly reminded Yan Junxian of Lu Lingfeng's close relationship with the Emperor, causing Yan Junxian to become noticeably more cautious. Lu Lingfeng then affirmed that his men would thoroughly search the herb garden for the dangerous snake and, implicitly, for any hidden persons.

Back at Meng Buyi's residence, Su Wuming and Fei Jishi continued their investigation in the wardrobe. Su Wuming discovered more snake scales, and the very same purple snake, a "Perfect Purple," was still lurking inside. It suddenly attacked Su Wuming, coiling tightly around his neck. Fei Jishi, initially panicking, tried using mugwort to repel it, which only agitated the snake further.

Su Wuming, despite being strangled, instructed Fei Jishi to use calming agarwood, which finally caused the snake to retreat, saving Su Wuming. Recovering, Su Wuming reiterated his conviction that Zhang San was strangled by the snake, but he still wondered who inflicted the blade wound on Zhang San's neck and why Hongyao was involved. Meanwhile, Lu Lingfeng and Pei Xijun visited Kangzai Pharmacy in the West Market, known for its extensive snake gallbladder collection.

The pharmacist offered "Perfect Purple" for 100,000 coins but insisted that customers couldn't inspect the goods beforehand and had to wait for delivery, leaving a 30,000-coin deposit. When Lu Lingfeng questioned if the "Perfect Purple" was extracted from a live snake, the pharmacist admitted he only recently learned that fact. Upon seeing Lu Lingfeng's official token, the pharmacist confessed that a man dressed as a woodcutter had tried to sell him a live purple snake a few days prior.

Unsure of its value, he had consulted three famous physicians overnight, two of whom confirmed it was indeed the rare "Perfect Purple." The next day, he haggled the price down to 30,000 coins but didn't buy it immediately, instead arranging to finalize the deal on the tenth of the month while he sought a buyer. Lu Lingfeng asked for a detailed description of the woodcutter, who had a high nose bridge and a fair, clean face.

Lu Lingfeng quickly realized the description matched Meng Buyi. That night, Meng Buyi secretly entered the herb garden, searching frantically for Hongyao. He confronted Yan Junxian, demanding to know her whereabouts and warning him that his servant Ming Shi was not to be trusted. Before Yan Junxian could fully respond, Ming Shi appeared and struck Meng Buyi from behind, knocking him unconscious.

Ming Shi then commanded Yan Junxian to bury Meng Buyi in a pre-dug pit in the Gastrodia field, sternly reminding Yan Junxian of his "Moorhen" past and threatening to ruin his career if he disobeyed. Ming Shi, sensing he was being followed, went to a private estate, where Hongyao was waiting. Hongyao revealed that she had never truly loved Yan Junxian; it was Ming Shi she had fallen for at first sight, sensing his extraordinary background.

Ming Shi, now openly affectionate, confessed that he had manipulated Yan Junxian to abandon Hongyao years ago because he had already considered her his own. He promised to formally marry Hongyao and give her a life of luxury in Lingnan, even revealing hints of a powerful, bloody past. Hongyao was utterly captivated by his mysterious allure. Yan Junxian, who had secretly followed them, burst into the room, horrified to see Hongyao with Ming Shi.

Ming Shi casually kicked Yan Junxian to the ground, mocking him while Hongyao watched with a cold, disdainful smile. Despite being left for dead, Meng Buyi miraculously escaped his burial. He rushed back to the Yongzhou Prefecture Office, frantically beating the drum of grievances once more, declaring that he knew Hongyao's whereabouts and urging the officials to save her immediately.

Episode 21 Recap

After managing to escape his shallow burial, Meng Buyi stumbled to the Yongzhou Prefecture Office and began beating the grievance drum. In the courtroom, he confessed that the purple snake, known as the Perfect Purple, was his. He explained that two months prior, he had visited Yan Junxian at the Imperial Academy of Medicine’s herb garden. When a herbalist reported that a purple snake had escaped, Yan Junxian dismissed it as unimportant, telling him to simply record the incident.

Meng Buyi, however, recognized it as a rare Perfect Purple snake. Knowing that the herb garden bordered the Qu River, he spent several nights using mugwort smoke to coax the snake out. Its tongue was still red, indicating it was not yet 60 years old and thus not ready for its gallbladder to be harvested, so he privately kept it. Unexpectedly, a few days ago, its tongue turned purple, signaling its maturity.

He had then begun negotiations with Kangzai Pharmacy in the West Market to sell it for 30,000 coins, though the transaction had not yet been completed. Meng Buyi revealed his motive was to exact revenge on Yan Junxian for his affair with Hongyao. He admitted to hiding the Perfect Purple snake in the wardrobe and deliberately getting the senior clerk drunk so he could return home.

His intention was to have the snake attack Yan Junxian, whom he suspected was rekindling his relationship with Hongyao. Meng Buyi stated that after seven years of marriage, he could sense his wife's infidelity. However, he was surprised to find Zhang San, not Yan Junxian, in the cabinet that night. Despite seeming to provide a detailed account, Meng Buyi insisted he had revealed everything, even though Su Wuming felt he was still holding back key information.

Su Wuming noted that Meng Buyi’s own book of "strange tales" contained a description of the Perfect Purple’s origin and lethality, disguised as a beautiful purple-clad woman, which is how they knew about the snake. Meng Buyi also warned them that Ming Shi, Yan Junxian's servant, was truly evil and expressed concern for Hongyao's safety. Meanwhile, Lu Lingfeng arrived at Yan Junxian’s residence only to find that Yan Junxian and Ming Shi had already departed.

Servants claimed they had gone to Mount Zhongnan to collect herbs and would be away for several days, a detail Ming Shi himself had communicated. Pei Xijun, after hearing the servants' description of Ming Shi, quickly sketched his portrait. Lu Lingfeng realized that the Mount Zhongnan story was likely a ruse, as they had left through the East Gate, not the direction for Mount Zhongnan. Thanks to Pei Xijun's swift drawing, he was able to alert the city guards.

As Ming Shi drove the carriage away from Chang'an, he expressed his contentment with leaving the city and the complications of politics behind. He shared his life story with Hongyao: he was born into a merchant family but, obsessed with martial arts, trained for twelve years. He then joined "Blood Drop," the largest assassin organization, and became known as "Beacon Fire," the top assassin in the martial world, within three years.

Growing weary of the endless killing, he retired to Lingnan with his considerable wealth. He revitalized his family's declining business, making them rich again in five years. Despite his wealth, Ming Shi craved political power but was barred from official exams due to his merchant status. So, he embarked on a cunning plan: he found a young, uneducated cowherd named Moorhen and meticulously groomed him for an official career, even bestowing upon him the name Yan Junxian.

Hongyao listened with growing admiration. Ming Shi then stated that Yan Junxian had become a liability, especially after attracting the attention of formidable figures like Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming. He felt it was better to abandon the political ambition and return to Lingnan with Hongyao as a wealthy merchant, rather than risk exposure. Stopping the carriage in a secluded forest clearing, Ming Shi made it clear that Yan Junxian was to be eliminated.

Yan Junxian, who had been buried up to his neck, pleaded for mercy from both Ming Shi and Hongyao. Hongyao, feigning indifference, stated it was a matter between master and servant. Ming Shi taunted Yan Junxian, reminding him that he had given him his name and status, only for Yan Junxian to plot against him. Hongyao then offered Ming Shi some wild mint leaves, knowing he enjoyed them. Ming Shi, feeling that life was like a dream, chewed the leaves.

As the poison began to take effect, Ming Shi realized Hongyao's true identity: she was the seven-year-old girl from Youzhou whose father he had killed 19 years ago. He understood that her entire relationship with him and Yan Junxian, including her marriage to Meng Buyi, was an elaborate "honey trap" designed to make him drop his guard. Yan Junxian also revealed that he and Hongyao had conspired to administer the deadly substance.

Struggling against the poison, Ming Shi desperately fought back but was ultimately overcome. Yan Junxian, now freed from his shallow grave, mockingly declared his years of subservience were over. He then took Ming Shi's sword and stabbed him, finishing the job and burying his former master. With Ming Shi dead, Yan Junxian turned his blade on Hongyao, seeking to silence her.

He scoffed at their past intimacy, admitting it was merely a performance to deceive Ming Shi and further his own ambitions. He declared his intention to return to Chang'an, rise through the ranks, and become the Grand Chancellor of the Tang Empire, unbound by anyone's control. He told Hongyao she was a threat to his future and must die.

Just as he lunged at her, Chu Yingtao, who had been secretly following, intervened, firing a sleeve arrow that struck Yan Junxian. She regretted killing him instantly, as she had intended to capture him alive, but had underestimated his lack of martial arts training. Upon Lu Lingfeng’s arrival, Chu Yingtao provided a detailed report of the events. She confirmed that Ming Shi was indeed the notorious assassin "Beacon Fire" and had been poisoned and killed by Yan Junxian.

She also stated that Hongyao was an innocent victim caught in the crossfire. Lu Lingfeng ordered Hongyao to be taken back to the Yongzhou Prefecture Office for further questioning. At the prefecture office, Hongyao recounted her arduous journey for revenge. She revealed that after her father’s death, she spent three years mourning and three years learning the pipa. At 13, she began wandering the martial world, relentlessly searching for "Beacon Fire."

Her investigation led her to discover he was part of the infamous "Blood Drop" assassin organization, which was secretly operating in Chang'an. She came to the capital, and to survive, worked in Pingkang District. Eventually, she learned that "Beacon Fire" had retired from the martial world, and she despaired, believing she would never get her revenge. However, hope rekindled when she saw Ming Shi, now disguised as a humble servant to Yan Junxian.

Though initially unsure, given his drastic change in status, she deliberately sought to get close to Yan Junxian to uncover Ming Shi’s true identity. For months, Yan Junxian remained tight-lipped, perhaps even unaware of Ming Shi’s murderous past himself. When Yan Junxian unexpectedly left Chang'an, Hongyao fell into despair again and tried to drown herself in a river. It was Meng Buyi who saved her.

She saw this as a sign and decided to marry him, hoping that Yan Junxian would eventually return to Chang'an, giving her another chance to get closer to her true target. Seven years later, her patience was rewarded when Yan Junxian indeed returned. As Hongyao concluded her testimony, denying any involvement from Meng Buyi in the murder, Meng Buyi himself dramatically reappeared in the courtroom, having escaped his burial. He again beat the grievance drum, announcing his intention to confess.

He declared himself the murderer of Zhang San, claiming a mental breakdown and suspicion of Hongyao’s affair with Yan Junxian led him to return home from night duty. He found men's boots under the bed, further fueling his rage. When he returned a second time, he discovered Zhang San with Hongyao and, in a fit of anger, grabbed a pair of scissors and killed him.

He asserted that as a Metropolitan Graduate working for the Ministry of Revenue, his crime was even more severe, demanding a swift conclusion to the case. However, Su Wuming and Lu Lingfeng remained unconvinced, finding many inconsistencies in his account. Su Wuming pressed him for the location of the murder weapon, but Meng Buyi equivocated, vaguely claiming he threw the scissors into the vast Qu River in the dark.

Hongyao then interjected, correcting him by stating that the scissors were buried under a very tall Gastrodia stalk in the Imperial Academy of Medicine’s herb garden, where she had personally hidden them.

Episode 22 Recap

Redyao confessed that she was the one who killed Zhang San. Years ago, she witnessed Zhang San rape and murder her friend Qingqing in Pingkang District using a pair of scissors. Although the incident was reported to officials, Zhang San, whom she described as a villain, escaped justice due to insufficient evidence. Su Wuming questioned why she didn't testify at the time. Redyao admitted she was afraid of retaliation, fearing she would lose the chance to avenge her father.

She eventually planned to hire an assassin to kill Zhang San, but needed money. When her husband, Meng Buyi, a minor clerk with a meager salary, couldn't provide it, she didn't blame him. Instead, she took advantage of Qian Zheng's interest in her, hinting at a romantic involvement to secure the funds for an assassin.

She later regretted her actions and asked Meng Buyi to divorce her, but she firmly stated that she alone was responsible for Zhang San's death, not Qian Zheng. She recounted that on the night of the incident, she had invited Yan Junxian to her home, hoping to uncover Ming Shi's true identity. Unexpectedly, Zhang San appeared, demanding money. Redyao, fearing that her hired assassin had failed, was about to comply when Meng Buyi suddenly returned home.

She quickly hid Zhang San in the cabinet. After sending Meng Buyi away and then Yan Junxian, she returned to find Zhang San lying on the floor. Seeing this as an opportunity, she killed him with the same method Zhang San had used on Qingqing, asserting that the act was hers alone and Meng Buyi was not involved. Su Wuming, however, had doubts about Redyao's testimony, sensing that she was deliberately omitting crucial details.

He directly asked her if she knew about the Perfect Purple snake in the cabinet, which she denied, claiming it must have crawled in by itself as her house was near the Qu River. Su Wuming countered that the Perfect Purple was no ordinary snake, and Meng Buyi had already confessed to intending to use it for murder, indicating they had not had a chance to coordinate their stories. Su Wuming then revealed the full truth.

Seven years ago, Meng Buyi had saved Redyao from attempting suicide, and they later married. Their first two years were harmonious, but then coldness and arguments began. It was during this time that Redyao saw Zhang San open a mutton soup shop and was reminded of Qingqing's death, rekindling her desire for revenge. When Meng Buyi, being frugal, refused her request for money to hire an assassin, Redyao briefly became involved with Qian Zheng.

Qian Zheng, in turn, hired a private detective named Cat to investigate Redyao, who turned out to be Meng Buyi himself. After this incident, Su Wuming deduced that Meng Buyi and Redyao finally became open with each other. Meng Buyi, who loved Redyao deeply and was committed to her, learned her entire backstory, including her father's unjust death and her belief that Ming Shi was the notorious assassin Beacon Fire.

Redyao also suspected Yan Junxian was an enemy, recalling her father's dying words that the instigator would bear the surname Yan. Meng Buyi considered Redyao's father his own father-in-law and agreed that the blood feud must be avenged, but did not want Redyao to risk her life. Meng Buyi devised a meticulous plan: to lure Yan Junxian to their home and kill him using his pet Perfect Purple snake, which he had acquired from Yan Junxian's medicinal garden.

He planned to hide Yan Junxian's body, knowing Ming Shi would then come looking, allowing the snake to take revenge on him as well. However, the plan took an unexpected turn when Yan Junxian revealed his true identity as a mere "puppet" house servant named "Moorhen," not bearing the surname Yan. This revelation stirred Redyao's compassion, leading her to hide him under the bed.

To her surprise, the person who arrived at her door next was Zhang San, not Meng Buyi, demanding money and threatening her life. Meng Buyi's return was delayed because a senior clerk detained him with long stories about snake demons, a distraction that cost Meng Buyi some money. By the time Meng Buyi finally arrived home, Yan Junxian was hidden under the bed, and Zhang San was concealed in the cabinet.

Knowing the danger, Redyao feigned a furious argument, accusing Meng Buyi of lying about his official rank and being unconcerned with her needs. She dramatically demanded a divorce, even cruelly suggesting it was to reunite with Yan Junxian. Meng Buyi, understanding her true intentions, sadly refused her demand and was tearfully driven out of the house.

Su Wuming explained that this theatrical argument was necessary to prevent Zhang San from emerging from the cabinet and going on a killing spree, or Yan Junxian from escaping, which would have thwarted Redyao's long-sought revenge. Su Wuming even mentioned he had recently faced a similar life-threatening situation himself, being saved by Chicken Fei. With Meng Buyi temporarily out of the house, Redyao urged Yan Junxian to escape, even helping him put on his shoes.

As Yan Junxian fled, he inquired about Su Wuming, who introduced himself as a disciple of Master Di. Redyao, deeply impressed by Su Wuming's astute deductions, openly confessed her guilt, acknowledging her admiration for both Su Wuming and Lu Lingfeng's dedication to justice. Suddenly, Meng Buyi appeared in the court, vehemently declaring Redyao innocent and attempting to take full responsibility.

He claimed the purple snake was merely his pet, not intended for murder, and that he had been driven to kill Zhang San out of a mistaken belief that Zhang San was having an affair with Redyao. Despite his passionate plea, Su Wuming and Lu Lingfeng remained unconvinced by his incomplete testimony. Meng Buyi and Redyao then shared a poignant farewell in the courtroom, hand in hand, promising to be childhood sweethearts and reunite in the next life.

This emotional scene moved many in attendance, including Chicken Fei. However, Su Wuming sought further clarity and arranged for multiple coroners to re-examine the body. Their collective conclusion was that Zhang San had died of asphyxiation, indicating he was strangled by the snake before Redyao stabbed him. Thus, Redyao was not charged with murder, but still faced legal repercussions for defiling a corpse.

According to the new imperial laws enacted after the emperor's ascension, the punishment was three years of imprisonment or facial tattooing. Meng Buyi, concerned for Redyao's beauty and lively spirit, pleaded with Pei Xijun to convey a message to Redyao: he would gladly wait three years for her release if she chose imprisonment, urging her not to disfigure her face.

However, Redyao, prioritizing an earlier reunion with her beloved husband, firmly chose the facial tattooing, asking Pei Xijun to relay her decision to Lu Lingfeng. After her release, Meng Buyi welcomed Redyao to their new home, a residence he had purchased with his years of savings and recent earnings. He named it "Su Garden," revealing that he had learned Redyao's childhood name, "Su," from Qiu Xian, a former colleague and friend of her late father.

Meng Buyi explained that he sought out Qiu Xian, who fondly recalled Redyao's father and her birth. Though Redyao initially felt the house should bear Meng Buyi's name, he insisted it was "ours," and she grew to love the name. Inside their new home, Meng Buyi established an altar with a portrait of Redyao's father, which Pei Xijun had skillfully drawn based on Qiu Xian's memories.

Meng Buyi solemnly promised Redyao's father that he would care for Su (Redyao) for the rest of their lives. He also revealed he had resigned his official post, stating that he would continue as a minor clerk, dedicating his time to writing popular strange tales and catching snakes, which had proven lucrative. He declared he would no longer work as a private detective, wanting a simple life focused on Redyao.

To cover Redyao's facial tattoo, Meng Buyi had diligently learned the art of flower tattooing. He lovingly decorated her forehead with a peony design and reassured her by sharing the story of Shangguan Wan'er, who, after receiving facial tattooing, adorned her forehead with plum blossoms and became even more beautiful. Deeply moved, Redyao expressed her absolute trust in him. Lu Lingfeng and his companions visited the "Su Garden" to congratulate Meng Buyi and Redyao.

Everyone admired Redyao's radiant beauty, enhanced by the peony tattoo on her forehead, which Meng Buyi had personally created. Meng Buyi and Redyao expressed their gratitude to their saviors. Later, Pei Xijun and Lu Lingfeng shared a moment, with Pei Xijun expressing her joy for Redyao finding such a devoted husband, whose profound care made all other men seem less attentive. Lu Lingfeng reciprocated her sentiments, praising her ability to balance justice with compassion.

Meanwhile, the "Liuhe Sushan Shop" was thriving, accumulating a significant amount of silver ingots. Chicken Fei, the nominal boss, initially joked about taking half the profits for himself, but his companions teased him for his apparent greed, reminding him that Pei Xijun had invested the initial capital, even selling a residence. Pei Xijun then presented Chicken Fei with a beautifully silver-gilt wine flask as a gift for his hard work.

Moments later, a messenger arrived, bestowing upon Chicken Fei a gold medal from the Princess, officially recognizing him as the "Chicken Master of Tang." Overjoyed by these honors, Chicken Fei declared he no longer cared for money, vowing that with his new title, he would receive chickens wherever he went, and the flask would make any wine taste like heavenly nectar.

Pei Xijun then entrusted a significant portion of the shop's profits to Su Wuming, explaining that she and Lu Lingfeng had agreed to use the funds to establish an extensive secret agent network for Yongzhou Prefecture. Su Wuming gratefully accepted, promising to use the money wisely to gather vital intelligence, maintain peace in Chang'an, and ensure the stability of the Tang Empire.

His network quickly expanded, recruiting informers from various walks of life, including rice shop clerks, dancers from Pingkang District, ghost market investigators, and even wealthy jewelry businessmen like Yuanbao, who joined voluntarily, driven by his passion for gathering information despite incurring personal financial losses. In a separate development, a musical troupe journeying through a forest encountered a blind woman in white attempting to commit suicide.

While some troupe members made insensitive comments, others offered kind words, but the woman remained silent. Later, Su Wuming informed Lu Lingfeng about a new intelligence report concerning "Black Fire," a notorious assassin from the "Blood Drop" organization. Black Fire was said to be as infamous as Beacon Fire but far more brutal, systematically killing all witnesses, thus concealing his or her true identity. The only known detail was that the assassin always wore white during their attacks.

Lu Lingfeng stated that Black Fire had already claimed 94 lives in Chang'an and vowed to capture and publicly execute the assassin if they dared to enter the city. Separately, Manager Hou from Ruan's Restaurant near Kaiyuan Gate came to the Sushan Shop, attempting to book the entire establishment for a day and demand that Chicken Fei and his staff prepare Sushan on-site to honor two esteemed poets, Gao Da and Wang Youbo.

Manager Hou even offered a gold coin as compensation for closing the shop. Chicken Fei was indignant, refusing to "bow to breathing, so-called distinguished guests" and asserting that common people also deserved to enjoy Sushan. However, Su Wuming and Pei Xijun intervened, stopping the workers from driving Manager Hou away.

Pei Xijun, recognizing the importance of respecting great poets and also acknowledging the staff's need for rest, agreed to have the Sushan made on-site at Ruan's Restaurant the next day at 2 PM, ensuring the poets would be served.

Episode 23 Recap

In the early morning as Su Wuming’s group pushes a cart towards Ruan’s Restaurant. Chu Yingtao, eager to arrive on time for the generous payment, urges Su Wuming to hurry, but he calmly states they are waiting for someone. Moments later, Lu Lingfeng appears from a street corner, dressed in plain clothes instead of his official uniform, and takes over pushing the cart, playfully noting that Su Wuming looked like he was about to break his back.

Fei Jishi observes this exchange with suspicion, hinting at a secret arrangement between Su Wuming and Lu Lingfeng. Lu Lingfeng, however, explains that he genuinely enjoys poetry and wishes to witness the grandeur of renowned poets like Gao Da and Wang Youbo. He also adds that he wants to spend more time with Pei Xijun.

Su Wuming cautions Lu Lingfeng not to neglect his duties as the Yongzhou Judicial Official, to which Lu Lingfeng cryptically replies that he is "bound by duties" and cannot elaborate, hinting at a deeper reason for his presence. Meanwhile, at Ruan’s Restaurant, owner Ruan Daxiong is meticulously preparing for the poetry gathering. He instructs his staff that only invited poets are permitted to use the main entrance, while all others, including himself, must enter through the rear door.

He firmly enforces this rule, even turning away two wealthy merchants who wish to dine, declaring that the restaurant is closed for the special event, though he invites them to return the next day for complimentary drinks. Manager Hou, the restaurant's manager, explains that Ruan Daxiong has a lifelong passion for poetry, often composing verses himself.

However, despite his efforts, his own "Chang'an Collection" was largely unsuccessful, with Ruan admitting that most copies were either repurchased by his own establishment or used as waste by a rival restaurant, fueling his deep admiration for truly accomplished poets. The Xuanhuo Troupe, led by Sai Mengchang, arrives late after an all-night performance at Linggao Post Station.

Sai Mengchang boasts about their diverse talents, including magic, puppetry, fire-breathing, music, and dance, proudly announcing a new addition: Nu Jiao, whom deputy leader Lang Yehu introduces as a former top courtesan from Chang'an known for her sword dancing. Ruan Daxiong initially expresses skepticism, but Lang Yehu clarifies that she is a "former" courtesan. As the troupe unloads their props and costumes, they are startled to discover a leopard kept in a cage in the backyard.

Ruan Daxiong quickly reassures everyone that the animal is tranquilized and poses no threat. Manager Hou welcomes the troupe, informing them of their month-long residency and offering assistance for any needs. Ruan Daxiong discreetly takes Sai Mengchang aside and offers him a gold ingot, asking him to ensure his own poems are sung during the event. Meanwhile, the restaurant employee, Alang, intercepts Su Wuming’s group at the main entrance.

Fei Jishi tries to assert their status, but Alang quickly identifies them as sushan makers, disparaging Fei Jishi as a "drunkard" and Su Wuming as merely a "scholar who kept failing imperial exams," while acknowledging Lu Lingfeng’s handsome appearance despite his perceived low status as a "cart pusher."

Although Fei Jishi is angered by the disrespect, Su Wuming calmly reminds him that they are not poets and must adhere to the host's rules, especially given the generous payment of ten times the usual rate. Convinced by the prospect of money, Fei Jishi reluctantly agrees, and they proceed to enter through the rear door.

Inside the kitchen, Pei Xijun describes the poets Wang Youbo and Gao Da to Chu Yingtao, praising Wang Youbo’s "extraordinary, handsome" presence and Gao Da’s image as a "humble, refined gentleman." With the sushan preparation underway, Su Wuming suggests that Lu Lingfeng, being a "cart-pushing laborer" unsuited for such "delicate" work, take a stroll. Lu Lingfeng, taking the advice, heads to the backyard and sees the caged leopard again, being briefly questioned by a staff member.

Meanwhile, Wang Youbo and Gao Da finally arrive at the restaurant, receiving an effusive welcome from Ruan Daxiong. Wang Youbo, acknowledging Ruan's generous hospitality, candidly admits he hadn't read Ruan's poems but is so impressed by his thoughtful hosting that he promises to immortalize Ruan in his own poetry collection with the title "A Playful Ode to Ruan Ninety-Eight, Owner of Ruan's Restaurant." This announcement fills Ruan Daxiong with immense joy.

As Ruan sends Alang to greet an eagerly anticipated third poet, Gao Da and Wang Youbo reveal their mutual friend is none other than Leng Ji. While exploring the backyard, Lu Lingfeng encounters his old friend, Leng Ji, a renowned scholar from Nanzhou, who is reciting a poem. Manager Hou, initially mistaking Leng Ji for a beggar due to his worn attire, is mortified upon realizing his identity and apologizes profusely.

Leng Ji, aware that Lu Lingfeng is the Yongzhou Judicial Official, expresses surprise at his presence in the restaurant. Lu Lingfeng, in turn, requests that Leng Ji maintain the secrecy of his identity for the time being. Leng Ji then attempts to introduce Lu Lingfeng to Gao Da, Wang Youbo, and Ruan Daxiong, referring to him as "Lu Wuming" and an old friend.

Ruan Daxiong, however, objects, stating that the banquet is exclusively for poets, and Lu Lingfeng, as a sushan shop servant, is not suitable to join. Despite Lu Lingfeng’s humble offer to withdraw, Leng Ji insists on his inclusion, revealing that Lu Lingfeng "used to be a poet." Ruan Daxiong challenges Lu Lingfeng to prove his literary knowledge.

Lu Lingfeng then engages him in a test of knowledge, citing famous poets before cleverly introducing the fictitious names "Yuan Wuyou" and "Cheng Zixu." Ruan Daxiong struggles to place these names, finally dismissing them as "vulgar." It is Wang Youbo and Gao Da who first grasp the playful pun, which references the idiom "zixu wuyou" (fictitious), prompting Leng Ji’s realization.

Impressed by Lu Lingfeng’s wit, Ruan Daxiong quickly apologizes for his previous rudeness and cordially invites Lu Lingfeng to take a seat, not wanting to appear to lack a "poet's grace." With everyone seated, Leng Ji, taking the seat of honor as the eldest, shares his recent feelings of stiflement in the "remote and desolate southern region," where his poetic inspiration felt limited.

He announces his intention to travel beyond Chang'an to the Western Region to witness its "lonely moon and yellow sand" and compose "sublime poetic pieces." Both Wang Youbo and Gao Da immediately express their eagerness to join this "heroic journey beyond the frontier." Gao Da, in particular, elaborates on his ambition to not only leave behind "great works for future generations" but also to "establish a legacy of achievement" by "joining the army" to defend the borders.

Lu Lingfeng expresses deep respect for Gao Da’s "uplifting remarks." Ruan Daxiong becomes visibly emotional, shedding tears of joy at the prospect of the "three greatest poets" embarking on such a grand endeavor from his restaurant. They all raise a toast to this shared ambition. Leng Ji then formally introduces Gao Da and Wang Youbo to Lu Lingfeng, reminiscing about their youth in Luoyang. In a separate room, the female performers of the Xuanhuo Troupe are preparing.

Sang'er offers to help Nu Jiao with her makeup, suggesting she remove her veil, but Nu Jiao politely declines, stating her past is "all in the past" and forgotten. Abi, another performer, asks Nu Jiao if she encountered many "officials, nobles, and romantic scholars like poets" during her time in singing halls. Baobao openly declares her preference for "handsome" men.

When Xiaopa teases Baobao about her attraction to men, Baobao retorts by accusing Xiaopa of having an affair with the troupe leader. Amidst the banter, Qilang, a male guard, eyes Baobao menacingly and threatens her if she refuses his advances that night. Su Wuming, accompanied by Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao, enters the hall carrying the exquisitely prepared cherry sushan. Leng Ji, momentarily surprised by their presence, quickly regains his composure and maintains their cover.

Su Wuming greets Leng Ji, reminiscing about their past in Nanzhou and offering the sushan as a display of his newly acquired skill. The sushan is well-received, with Gao Da noting its Shazhou origin and suggesting they sample it there during their journey to the Western Region. Ruan Daxiong then proposes a poetry contest: the songstresses from the Xuanhuo Troupe will perform, singing the works of the poets present.

The poet whose verses are sung the most times will be declared the winner. After some initial hesitation from Wang Youbo, Leng Ji boldly accepts the challenge, as does Gao Da. The performances begin: Sang'er sings a poem by Wang Youbo, quickly earning him the first mark. Next, Abi sings a poem by Gao Da, followed by another performer singing another of Wang Youbo's works, increasing his lead. Xiaopa then performs, surprisingly singing a poem penned by Ruan Daxiong himself.

Ruan Daxiong is flattered, yet also embarrassed, and attempts to withdraw the point. As the contest progresses, Gao Da and Lu Lingfeng try to offer encouragement to Leng Ji, whose poems have yet to be sung, suggesting they simply haven't circulated in Chang'an. However, Wang Youbo, fueled by drink, interjects, sharply telling Lu Lingfeng he has "no right to speak up for him" and openly expresses his frustration to Leng Ji.

He reminds Leng Ji of their past glory in Luoyang, where they "had equal standing in the poetry circles," and laments Leng Ji’s decision to return to Nanzhou, which led to the "Four Poets of Nanzhou" becoming a "laughingstock." Wang Youbo emphatically declares that Leng Ji "lost something far more important than you could imagine." Deeply provoked, Leng Ji dismisses the previous performances as "crude," unworthy of his refined poetry.

He then dramatically vows that if none of his poems are sung during the event, he will "punish myself with three glasses of wine, stop writing poetry thereafter, and never compete with you lot again in the rest of my life." At this climactic moment, Nu Jiao makes her entrance, and despite her veiled face, Leng Ji immediately recognizes her, his emotions visibly stirred.

Episode 24 Recap

Nu Jiao, carrying both a pipa and a sword, made her entrance, drawing confused stares from the guests who wondered why a courtesan would bear arms. She explained that she had learned sword dance to supplement her pipa playing, as it was a means of survival. Leng Shuye, present among the guests, recognized her voice. However, another guest then pointed out that Nu Jiao was blind, a revelation that shocked Leng Shuye and caused further intrigue.

A guest suggested she perform her sword dance first, remarking on the rarity of a blind sword dancer. Nu Jiao requested Chu Yingtao to hold her pipa. Nu Jiao began her sword dance, her movements graceful and precise, but the tip of her sword suddenly veered towards Ruan Daxiong. Fortunately, Chu Yingtao was quick to react, using a tray to block the attack.

Thinking fast, Su Wuming announced that Chu Yingtao was also skilled in dance and invited her to perform with Nu Jiao. The two women moved in a controlled dance, effectively neutralizing Nu Jiao's offensive. After their performance, Nu Jiao played her pipa and sang, her voice filling the hall with Leng Shuye's poetry. She concluded with his famous "Cold Food Ballad," which earned widespread acclaim, securing Leng Shuye's victory in the poetry contest.

The consensus among the poets was that the top courtesan singing his poem was the ultimate determinant of the winner. After Nu Jiao departed, Leng Shuye remained somber. Lu Lingfeng, seeing his melancholy, offered a toast, encouraging him to find joy in their company. Meanwhile, Manager Hou led Nu Jiao to a private room, discreetly questioning her about the failed assassination attempt.

Nu Jiao admitted that the presence of skilled individuals at the banquet made it impossible to act and asked him to point out the target's room. That night, Nu Jiao crept into Ruan Daxiong's chambers to carry out the assassination. Unbeknownst to her, Lu Lingfeng was already on high alert. Her initial strike missed, and as she attempted to flee, Chu Yingtao intercepted her, quickly overpowering her.

Lu Lingfeng, identifying himself as "Lu Wuming," a humble Sushan Shop servant, and Chu Yingtao, claiming to be another servant, downplayed their martial prowess while subduing Nu Jiao. When Ruan Daxiong demanded an explanation, the Xuanhuo Troupe leader, Sai Mengchang, fabricating a story, claimed they found Nu Jiao attempting suicide. Lu Lingfeng swiftly debunked this, suggesting Nu Jiao had deliberately staged the scene to infiltrate Ruan's Restaurant.

He then pressed Ruan Daxiong about who hired the troupe, leading to the revelation that it was Manager Hou. Manager Hou, attempting to escape, was apprehended. Manager Hou confessed to orchestrating the assassination. He explained that Ruan Daxiong's father, on his deathbed, had entrusted him with the responsibility of assisting Ruan, but also granted him permission to take over the business if Ruan proved unworthy.

Seeing Ruan Daxiong's singular devotion to poetry and lavish spending, which he believed was squandering the family fortune, Manager Hou decided to seize control. Ruan Daxiong, acknowledging Manager Hou's past loyalty to his late father, gave him a surprisingly lenient sentence: two days confined in the woodshed for reflection.

Lu Lingfeng then stated that despite the Tang Empire's general tolerance for assassins, Nu Jiao, having been caught in the act of attempted murder, must be reported to the authorities for punishment. Just as ropes were brought out, Leng Shuye dramatically stepped forward, declaring his willingness to accept her punishment. He revealed that Nu Jiao's true name was Jiaonu.

He recounted their shared past in Luoyang, where he, a struggling scholar, and she, a courtesan, had found solace in each other's company. He spoke of her eventual rise as a top courtesan, his jealous outburst upon seeing her with a general, and his cruel curse that she would go blind—a curse he deeply regretted.

He admitted that his long poem "Cold Food Ballad" brought him fame, after which he abandoned the imperial examinations and returned to Nanzhou Prefecture to focus on poetry with three companions, but his heart still held deep guilt for Jiaonu. He saw this moment as an opportunity to atone for his past wrongs. Su Wuming asked Jiaonu if she had anything to add. She confirmed her heartbreak after Leng Shuye left.

Her fame as a courtesan eventually waned in Luoyang and then Chang'an. Instead of entering the Ghost Market or marrying a merchant, she chose to travel the world. On Mount Song, she encountered a starving old man, to whom she offered a sesame cake. He, in turn, became her martial arts mentor. She then adopted the alias Nu Jiao and became an assassin, deliberately feigning blindness as a stark reminder of Leng Shuye's curse.

She emphasized that she had always sworn to only target the truly wicked and, upon witnessing Ruan Daxiong's respectful treatment of poets, concluded that he was not an evil man and therefore held back from killing him. Moved by her words, the other poets realized Jiaonu's enduring affection for Leng Shuye. Overwhelmed, Leng Shuye proposed marriage, pledging to marry her immediately.

When Jiaonu hesitated, he threatened to take his own life with her sword, asserting that if they could die together, they would be reunited in the afterlife for their wedding. Ruan Daxiong and the others quickly intervened, offering to host their wedding banquet immediately. Gao Da offered to act as guarantor, taking full responsibility for any legal repercussions of harboring a criminal. Su Wuming, deeply touched by their love, also supported the impromptu wedding.

Finally, Jiaonu accepted Leng Shuye's heartfelt proposal. Ruan Daxiong immediately arranged for a joyous wedding ceremony and summoned the troupe to provide entertainment. Lu Lingfeng, acknowledging the extraordinary circumstances, decided to allow the wedding to proceed. Under the watchful eyes of all the guests, Leng Shuye from Nanzhou and Fu Jiaonu from the northern lands exchanged vows and were officially wed.

During the wedding feast, Lang Yehu secretly urged Sai Mengchang (whose true name was Gou Mengchang) to gather their belongings and depart quickly, fearing their prolonged stay would raise suspicion. However, Gou Mengchang's greed was inflamed by Ruan Daxiong's apparent wealth. He decided to proceed with a robbery, secretly adding a sleeping drug to the drinks.

He instructed two of his men, Liulang and Qilang, to guard the first floor and intervene if any fighting broke out upstairs, indicating the drug had failed to fully incapacitate the guests. After confirming that everyone appeared to be unconscious, Gou Mengchang and Lang Yehu moved to carry out their plan, intending to eliminate Lu Lingfeng and Chu Yingtao first.

Simultaneously, Liulang and Qilang, believing it to be full of treasure, seized a heavy cabinet from the first floor and fled, unaware that it contained the real leader of the Xuanhuo Troupe, bound and gagged. Moments later, Lu Lingfeng and his companions, who had anticipated the drug and merely feigned unconsciousness, having covered their mouths and noses to avoid its effects, suddenly sprang into action, revealing their deception to a shocked Gou Mengchang and Lang Yehu.

Lu Lingfeng and Chu Yingtao engaged the bandits. Ruan Daxiong, Wang Youbo, Leng Shuye, and Gao Da, all proving to be surprisingly adept in combat, joined forces to subdue Gou Mengchang. Lu Lingfeng then revealed his true identity as a Judicial Official to the assembled poets. Under interrogation, Gou Mengchang confessed his real name and admitted to being a notorious bandit.

He explained that Lang Yehu had persuaded him to impersonate the Xuanhuo Troupe leader, using the guise of performers to easily gain access to wealthy households for robbery. Gou Mengchang further divulged that the actual Xuanhuo Troupe leader was trapped inside the very cabinet that Liulang and Qilang had stolen, along with all the gold, silver, and valuables they had plundered recently. Ruan Daxiong, gravely concerned, immediately urged pursuit, emphasizing that recovering the stolen goods was secondary to saving the human life endangered within the cabinet.

Episode 25 Recap

With his injured leg, Lang Yehu frantically stumbled through the forest, only to run into his fellow bandits, Liulang and Qilang. Qilang immediately questioned Lang Yehu’s delay, while Lang Yehu angrily accused them of failing to help him earlier. As they argued over who was to blame for the situation, Lang Yehu then accused them of trying to secretly keep the loot for themselves, threatening to kick them.

Liulang and Qilang quickly apologized and tried to explain that carrying the heavy chest was exhausting. Lang Yehu, the "Second Master," became even more enraged when they complained about the weight of the chest and dared him to try carrying it. With their plan to get money from the exchange shop thwarted, Qilang suggested they simply kill the "old man" in the chest. Liulang agreed, proposing they take whatever loot was inside, split it three ways, and flee.

Lang Yehu scoffed at the idea of sharing equally with his subordinates, declaring that he deserved more. The tension escalated, and Lang Yehu was stabbed and killed by Liulang and Qilang. Qilang then turned on Liulang, deciding that keeping all the treasure was better than sharing it two ways. He swiftly plunged a dagger into Liulang, killing him as well.

Eager to claim his prize, Qilang frantically smashed open the chest, only for a leopard to spring out and fatally attack him. Meanwhile, Lu Lingfeng had no need to pursue the bandits, as he had already anticipated their greed. He revealed that he had orchestrated a "trick," secretly replacing the real Xuanhuo Troupe leader, Yuan Li, with a leopard in the chest. Yuan Li, now safe, confirmed his identity as the Xuanhuo Troupe leader and recounted his ordeal.

He explained that half a month prior, a gang of bandits had hijacked his troupe. To save his life, he cleverly lied about having a large sum of money stored in an exchange shop that only he could personally withdraw. This deception kept him alive, though he was imprisoned in the chest. The other dancers tearfully complained about the bandits' cruelty and threats.

Only Sang'er remained silent, eventually speaking up to suggest that using a leopard to punish the murderers and then releasing it back into the wild was a fitting outcome, promoting harmony between humans and nature. Lu Lingfeng explained that he had rescued Yuan Li from the chest and replaced him with the leopard, assuring everyone that he wouldn't have acted without certainty of the plan's effectiveness.

Ruan Daxiong, eager to celebrate, instructed his servant Alang to prepare a new feast with fine wine and special dishes. He also requested the Xuanhuo Troupe to perform their unique skills. Yuan Li, after a moment of hesitation, agreed. As music filled the air, dancers gracefully entered, and Yuan Li stood at the center, conjuring a mesmerizing seven-colored lotus from his palms, dazzling everyone. However, after consuming the celebratory wine, everyone began to feel disoriented and experienced vivid hallucinations.

Yuan Li then shockingly spewed real flames, while two dancers flew through the air, intensifying the fire. Even Lu Lingfeng struggled to resist the illusion. Pei Xijun, realizing the danger, urgently warned Sang'er not to assist in the malevolent act. Just then, Fei Chicken burst in, extinguishing the flames and exposing Yuan Li's true identity: he was none other than Black Fire, the notorious criminal Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming were hunting.

Upon being exposed, Black Fire attempted to flee but was swiftly apprehended by Lu Lingfeng. Ruan Daxiong, Gao Da, and Wang Youbo quickly surrounded the other dancers, ordering them to surrender. Realizing they had been coerced by Black Fire for years, the dancers dropped their weapons and confessed. Fei Chicken explained that Su Wuming had already received intelligence that Black Fire had returned to Chang'an, specifically targeting Ruan's Restaurant.

Therefore, Su Wuming had feigned drunkenness to catch Black Fire off guard. Fei Chicken further revealed that he and Black Fire were old acquaintances. Twenty years ago, he saved Black Fire from assassins in the Ghost Market. To his dismay, Black Fire repaid him by murdering four of the Medicine King's disciples for a magical elixir. Fei Chicken, still grieving for the children who called him "Martial Uncle," vowed to settle all old and new scores.

However, Chu Yingtao intervened, insisting that Black Fire be handed over to the authorities for proper justice. Su Wuming then questioned why Black Fire, after twenty years of hiding, had resurfaced to commit crimes. Black Fire claimed he was "bound by the Blood Drop," hinting that he had received a Blood Drop Order. At this moment, Xue Huan and his men arrived, taking Black Fire and Gou Mengchang into custody.

Sang'er then revealed her story, explaining that she had been held captive for years and, desperate for freedom, intentionally leaked Black Fire's alias after overhearing him and Xiaopa. She understood that exposing a notorious criminal like Black Fire would alert the authorities and lead to her rescue, and also avenge the other kidnapped girls who had been murdered for disobedience.

Recognizing her contribution to solving the case, Su Wuming promised to help her officially remove her slave status, for which Sang'er expressed profound gratitude. Later, everyone gathered, listening to Fei Chicken proudly recount how he had outsmarted Gou Mengchang by using a special "sushan" dessert containing a sleep-inducing agent to incapacitate the bandits, and then magically calmed and directed the leopard into the chest. His ingenuity impressed everyone. During the celebratory banquet, Lu Lingfeng shared his evolving understanding of poetry.

He admitted that he once believed good poetry relied solely on elegant words. However, his travels across the land taught him that true poetic essence comes from embracing the vastness of heaven and earth and the warmth of human life. Everyone agreed, and Wang Youbo suggested renaming the restaurant "Hero Restaurant" to reflect such noble sentiments. Gao Da eagerly offered to personally inscribe the new plaque.

The next morning, Cold Ji was nowhere to be found at their agreed meeting time. Lu Lingfeng and his companions rushed to his room, finding it empty except for a hidden tunnel leading outside the city. Cold Ji and Jiaonu were already riding away, having decided to spend the rest of their lives wandering the world as a free couple. Cold Ji confided in Jiaonu that his greatest freedom was being with her.

He knew he was putting Gao Da and Wang Youbo in a difficult position by leaving them behind, but promised to thank them later. He also recognized the challenge he created for Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming, who would have to cleverly navigate the legal implications of their escape. Meanwhile, Gao Da and Wang Youbo, awaiting their arrest, declared their readiness to return to Yongzhou Prefecture Office with Lu Lingfeng.

They stated their intention to serve their sentence and then embark on their planned journey beyond the Great Wall, believing the experience would enrich their poetry. Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming exchanged knowing glances. Playing along, Su Wuming pretended to be drunk, claiming he couldn't release them. Lu Lingfeng then subtly suggested they escape through the tunnel, allowing them to uphold their loyalty to Cold Ji while providing a plausible explanation for the authorities.

Soon after, Ruan Daxiong proudly unveiled the new "Hero Restaurant" plaque, personally inscribed by Gao Da. Despite Manager Hou's previous attempt to hire an assassin to kill him, Ruan Daxiong magnanimously reappointed him to manage the establishment. Su Wuming, learning that Ruan Daxiong had arranged the feast specifically to reunite Cold Ji and Jiaonu, remarked that Ruan Daxiong truly deserved the name "Hero." Gao Da and Wang Youbo also admired Ruan Daxiong's character.

When he brought them provisions and travel expenses for their journey, they invited him to join them beyond the Great Wall to explore the world together. Overjoyed, Ruan Daxiong readily accepted, and the three, now united as "Tang poets," rode off towards the city gates as the morning sun rose.

Episode 26 Recap

Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming stood in Chang'an, reflecting on the poets' contest. Su Wuming observed that the verses depicted the strength of Tang poets, who were not only scholars but also martial artists who valued righteousness above all. He noted how Wang Youbo, Gao Da, and Ruan Daxiong demonstrated unwavering loyalty to their friends, and Leng Ji risked his life for love, concluding that all participants were indeed heroes.

Lu Lingfeng added that they, too, were heroes for having taken part. Lu Lingfeng then asked Su Wuming to define the Tang Empire, to which Su Wuming responded that swords and poetry embody the Tang Empire. When asked about Chang'an, Su Wuming said it is a place where poetry and danger coexist.

Lu Lingfeng expressed his belief that poetry is crucial to both the Tang Empire and Chang'an, but a poetic heart is even more important, enabling Tang people to perceive poetry even amidst hardship. Enlightened by this profound understanding, Su Wuming thanked Lu Lingfeng for his help in capturing two ringleaders through his network of investigators.

Meanwhile, in a private chamber in Chang'an, a young woman named Wei Jia, adorned in a bridal phoenix crown and robes, chatted joyfully with her sister-in-law, Jujia. Jujia urged her to drink a bitter medicinal soup, which Wei Jia drank, trusting Jujia's assurance that it would make her even more beautiful. Suddenly, hurried footsteps approached, and Wei Jia's brother, Wei Tao, the Chang'an County Sheriff, burst in with a furious expression.

Wei Jia cried, fearing her brother disapproved of her marriage. Jujia followed, trying to calm her husband. While Wei Tao could solve countless cases as sheriff, his own household affairs remained a difficult challenge. A murder was reported in Fengle District, where Hua Fu, the owner of Qianzi Florist, was found dead. Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming arrived at the scene, as did Sheriff Wei Tao. The initial coroner was inexperienced, leading Su Wuming to examine the body himself.

He determined that the primary cause of death was a severe blow to the back of the head, with a secondary serrated wound on the right side of the neck, consistent with a sickle. Since the crime was discovered rather than reported, Lu Lingfeng deferred the investigation to Sheriff Wei Tao, who immediately summoned Manager Zhang for questioning.

Zhang recounted that Hua Fu was in good spirits that day, allowing staff a lunch break while he personally arranged new peonies in the front hall. When the staff returned, they found Hua Fu deceased. During the investigation, Su Wuming found a bloody sickle. Following up on a tip, he and Wei Tao learned that Qingcong, a debt collector from the An Society, had visited the shop around noon.

Manager Zhang further revealed that Hua Fu, originally named Wu, was a former charcoal seller who had accumulated massive debts due to poor business. He had borrowed 50,000 coins from the An Society and, after learning from a tip in the Ghost Market that peonies were popular in Luoyang, transformed his charcoal shop into a flower shop, even changing his surname to "Hua."

The new business thrived, and Hua Fu had prepared the principal and interest for the An Society's collection. Wei Tao ordered Qingcong's arrest. Qingcong confessed that he and Dou Lang, known as the "Debt Collection Duo" for the An Society, collected debts in four districts. Dou Lang, a compulsive gambler who frequently consorted with married women, had used a secret rendezvous as an excuse to send Qingcong to collect the debt alone.

Dou Lang had also urged Qingcong to demand an additional 20% interest, suggesting they split the extra money, despite Qingcong's concerns about the High Priest's strict rules. Qingcong initially attempted to intimidate Hua Fu with the sickle, but Hua Fu refused to pay the extra interest, revealing his membership in the Jinguang Society and threatening to report them. Qingcong then left the shop.

Shortly after, Qingcong encountered Meimei, a dancer from the Persian House whom he loved, who demanded 10,000 coins to marry him. Desperate for the money, Qingcong returned to the flower shop to steal from Hua Fu. Upon entering, he discovered Hua Fu's lifeless body, panicked, dropped his sickle, and fled after stealing one silver ingot, heading directly to the Persian House to find Meimei.

Dou Lang and Meimei were apprehended in the alley behind the Persian House by Su Wuming and Lu Lingfeng. Dou Lang admitted to manipulating Qingcong but denied the murder, accusing Qingcong instead. Meimei confirmed receiving only one ingot from Qingcong and stated that Dou Lang had found no other ingots on his own subsequent search of the shop, planning for her to support him as a songstress if they fled to Luoyang. The two men argued vehemently in court.

Meanwhile, Chu Yingtao, who was tasked with shadowing Manager Zhang, observed him attempting to flee with a suspicious bundle. When the bundle burst open during the pursuit, several silver ingots scattered. In court, Manager Zhang confessed to being greedy. He admitted to hiding in the shop to discover where Hua Fu kept his money. While hiding, he witnessed a masked person in a white robe, resembling a Zoroastrian, attack Hua Fu from behind.

He was about to steal the money when Qingcong returned, leading to Qingcong's discovery of the body. Combining these revelations, Lu Lingfeng, Su Wuming, and Wei Tao deduced that the true murderer was a Zoroastrian. They decided to split up to investigate Zoroastrian temples in Chang'an. Wei Tao proceeded to the four temples located in Chang'an County—Liquan, Puning, Buzheng, and Chonghua—while Su Wuming and Lu Lingfeng headed to Jinggong District in Wannian County.

Upon their arrival in Jinggong District, they found a lively deity procession for the "Seven-Saint Blades" underway. Su Wuming explained to Lu Lingfeng that the "Seven-Saint Blades" was an illusionary ritual to summon gods. Historically, this ritual involved seven participants using real blades for mutual stabbing or self-mutilation to demonstrate piety, aided by illusionists to create a blurring of reality. However, due to its bloody nature, Emperor Gaozong had banned it.

After the Cantian Tower Illusion Convention, the prohibition relaxed, and the ritual evolved into a performance with paper or wooden weapons, using animal blood and makeup to simulate wounds. As night fell, they watched the ceremony from the crowd. People were crawling under a "flame cloth" for good fortune. Suddenly, as the cloth was lifted, Ma Kui, one of the "Seven-Saint Blades" and the East Market's largest pepper merchant, was discovered dead with a blade in his neck.

Lu Lingfeng swiftly moved to control the chaotic scene. Wannian County Sheriff Du Yu arrived and immediately clashed with He Bi, a Zoroastrian Priest from the Sabao Residence, indicating a pre-existing animosity between them. He Bi attempted to deflect suspicion by pointing out that many people had crawled under the flame cloth. Du Yu, suppressing his anger, ordered the remaining six "Seven-Saint Blades" and Ma Kui's body to be taken to the county office for investigation.

He Bi, however, insisted on continuing the procession, asserting the ritual's timing was crucial and reminding Du Yu of his official status. Du Yu dismissed He Bi's position as an "unranked official," emphasizing that all must adhere to the laws of the Tang Empire. Despite this, He Bi led the remaining, un-detained participants in continuing the procession.

Episode 27 Recap

Su Wuming elaborated on the administrative structure of Chang'an, explaining to Lu Lingfeng that the city was divided into two counties by Zhuque Avenue: Wannian County to the east and Chang'an County to the west. He noted that Wannian County Sheriff Du Yu, much like Chang'an County Sheriff Wei Tao, hailed from a prominent family in the capital and entered officialdom through family connections.

Both were considered "twin stars" due to their comparable talents, and a local proverb claimed, "south of the city live the Weis and the Dus—only 5 feet from Heaven." Su Wuming expressed a desire to observe Du Yu's investigative approach, and Lu Lingfeng, despite Su Wuming's concern that it might overstep their authority given Du Yu's earlier remarks, readily agreed, asserting that he was not one to shy away from trouble.

At the county office, Du Yu was interrogating six individuals, including the Shi brothers, in connection with Ma Kui's murder. He had them wear coverings and draw their positions during the Seven-Saint Blades ritual. One suspect revealed that while He Bi had initially selected the members, Ma Kui had bribed High Priest Shi Qiansui to secure a spot.

The Shi brothers, Shi Qian and Shi Wan, claimed close friendship and business ties with Ma Kui, stating they had helped establish his pepper business and held shares in his shop. Du Yu, employing a theatrical method, feigned accusing a passerby as the killer before abruptly dismissing the suspects. Su Wuming observed that Du Yu’s seemingly playful demeanor in fact concealed a deeper investigative strategy. Later that night, the Shi brothers, laden with luggage, attempted to flee.

Du Yu, having anticipated their escape, intercepted them. They turned aggressive, attempting to assault Du Yu, but Du Yu proved to be a skilled fighter. While Shi Qian engaged Du Yu, Shi Wan tried to slip away into an alley but was swiftly apprehended by Lu Lingfeng. With the Shi brothers brought back to the public court, Du Yu exposed their true intentions.

He revealed that the brothers had built their pepper business by acting as loan sharks in the East Market, taking pleasure in having numerous debtors. Five years prior, they had lent money to Ma Kui for his initial venture. However, Ma Kui's business acumen led him to prosper and eventually surpass them, becoming the largest pepper merchant in the East Market. Feeling resentful, they converted his outstanding debt into shares.

Shi Qian, however, grew overly greedy and demanded a larger stake, which Ma Kui refused. Harboring a grudge, they plotted to assassinate Ma Kui during the chaos of the deity procession. Under Du Yu's instruction, the coroner initially reported that Ma Kui died from a single knife wound to the throat, about five fen deep. Based on this, the Shi brothers confessed to the murder. However, Su Wuming sensed something amiss and insisted on a re-autopsy.

During the re-examination, he discovered two distinct knife wounds on Ma Kui's neck, differing in length and depth. He deduced that the shorter, shallower wound (less than five fen) was inflicted by Shi Wan and was not fatal. The deeper wound, measuring one inch and seven fen, had severed the esophagus and trachea, causing immediate death.

Su Wuming concluded that Ma Kui must have already been incapacitated when Shi Wan struck him, and the fatal wound was caused by an external force striking the wooden sickle with immense precision, driving it deep into his neck. This proved that the true killer was still at large. Du Yu was taken aback and humbly sought Lu Lingfeng's advice on how to proceed.

Lu Lingfeng suggested investigating Ma Kui's enemies, particularly the person he had replaced in the Seven-Saint Blades ritual. Du Yu promptly went to He Bi's residence, where the priest reluctantly revealed that his younger brother, He Qian, who resided in Yanzuo District, was the one supplanted by Ma Kui. Meanwhile, an unknown assailant had already infiltrated He Qian's study. The killer suffocated He Qian by covering his face with wet paper before brutally smashing his face with a heavy object.

By the time Lu Lingfeng and his team arrived, He Qian was dead, and the perpetrator had vanished. Su Wuming noticed a peculiar water stain on a calligraphy copybook on He Qian’s desk, finding its scent oddly familiar. As the murder occurred within Chang'an County's jurisdiction, Wei Tao soon arrived, expressing his displeasure at Du Yu’s presence and sternly ordering unrelated personnel to leave. To defuse the tension, Su Wuming quickly presented his preliminary autopsy findings to Wei Tao.

Back at the sushan shop, Chicken Fei examined the water stain from He Qian's study and identified it as Fengli beast urine, also known as Fengli fluid. He explained that this rare substance was once highly prized for treating rheumatism, especially stubborn headaches, a condition his own medicinal formula could not alleviate. This suggested that the killer might be carrying the fluid for such an ailment.

Lu Lingfeng, pondering the fact that all victims were merchants, focused their investigation on the merchant community. He and Su Wuming decided to visit Shi Qiansui, the Sogdian merchant who also served as the leader of the An Society and the High Priest (Da Sabao), given his significant influence over Zoroastrian merchants and his role in securing Ma Kui's place in the ritual. Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao also expressed a desire to visit the Zoroastrian temple.

To appease Chicken Fei, who was reluctant to be left alone to mind the shop, Pei Xijun promised to bring him back a special roasted chicken from Buzheng District, a dish known for its unique preparation with fruit and honey. At the Zoroastrian temple, Shi Qiansui was questioned by Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming.

He admitted to advocating for Ma Kui's inclusion in the Seven-Saint Blades but denied taking any bribes, emphasizing his role as a protector of Chang'an's merchants, a duty bestowed upon him by the Emperor. Shi Qiansui explained that members of the Seven-Saint Blades were chosen for being influential Zoroastrians.

While some doubted Ma Kui's true piety, suspecting he sought to exploit divine power for financial gain, Shi Qiansui believed Ma Kui's recent success as the East Market's biggest pepper merchant warranted him a chance. Shi Qiansui, relying on intuition, stated his firm belief that Ma Kui's killer was not a merchant. Lu Lingfeng affirmed his commitment, as a Yongzhou Judicial Official, to protect all citizens, including merchants. Later, Wei Tao unexpectedly encountered He Bi at the temple.

Despite being relatives, their interaction was noticeably distant. Wei Tao invited Lu Lingfeng to a celebratory banquet at his home, marking the discovery of his ancestral merit-record pillar during recent construction. Given the prominence of the Hedong Pei family, Pei Xijun was also invited to accompany Lu Lingfeng. Su Wuming, however, was explicitly excluded, as the gathering was reserved for esteemed noble families. Accepting this, Su Wuming, along with Chu Yingtao, visited a bookshop to research Fengli beast lore.

There, they learned that the Fengli, a shy, ape-like creature from Lingnan, produced urine (Fengli fluid) with medicinal properties for rheumatism and headaches. They also read about the mythical "Fengli cane," capable of felling bird nests, conjuring treasures, or even inflicting instant death. During their research, they met a young boy, Yan Zhenqing, who, despite his humble origins, declared his ambition to study diligently not for personal glory, but to serve the common people and the country. Su Wuming was deeply impressed by the boy's noble aspirations.

Episode 28 Recap

Su Wuming, following a clue from his mentor Master Di's book, located the Sifang Cane Shop. The shop, filled with old furnishings and a strong medicinal aroma, was run by the white-haired Song Weng. Though initially unwelcoming, Song Weng became eager to sell "Fengli canes," claiming their magical properties were a myth but the Fengli fluid itself was genuinely potent.

He produced a sealed jar of the fluid, asserting it could cure ailments like rheumatism, which caused numbness and paralysis, making the user "walk swiftly." He boasted that this fluid cost 10,000 coins per tael, in contrast to the cheap, fake Fengli canes that were merely "peed on by a Fengli beast." When Su Wuming inquired about Fengli beasts, Song Weng grew suspicious, believing they were officials trying to extort him since Fengli beasts were on a prohibited sales list.

Chu Yingtao then revealed her Yongzhou Prefecture token, intimidating Song Weng into honesty. He confessed that for decades after his shop opened (which he claimed was a hundred years ago, making him 180, though Su Wuming noted his mentor's records suggested the shop was at least seventy or eighty years old, making Song Weng well over 100), wealthy customers indeed purchased Fengli fluid.

However, business had dried up over the past decade after Chicken Fei developed an effective cure for rheumatism, leaving his inventory untouched. Doubting his story, Su Wuming and Chu Yingtao feigned taking Song Weng to the Yongzhou Prefecture Office for questioning. Song Weng pretended to retrieve ledgers but instead fled through a hidden tunnel in his shop, leading them into the bustling Ghost Market.

Su Wuming observed that such "extraordinary people" with secret passages were common in Chang'an, while Chu Yingtao speculated that Song Weng might be an ancient demon. Meanwhile, Lu Lingfeng and Pei Xijun attended a lavish evening banquet hosted by Wei Tao at the Wei family mansion. Inside, prominent figures like Chancellor Cui and many others from the illustrious Five Clans and Seven Families were gathered.

After taking their seats, the guests introduced themselves, revealing their noble origins, including members of the Cui, Lu, Pei, Wang, Zheng, Li, Yang, Liu, Xiao, and Gao families. Master Cui of Qinghe delivered a speech celebrating the historical achievements of noble families, highlighting how many rulers came from humble origins while crucial state officials consistently hailed from prestigious clans, especially the Cui and Lu families.

He mentioned historical figures like Yuan An, Yang Zhen, Sima Yi, Zhuge Liang, and Lu Xun. Chancellor Cui then continued the speech, adding praise for Chen Qun before noting that during the Eastern Jin Dynasty, power was shared between the imperial family and noble clans. He bemoaned how the Sui Dynasty’s introduction of imperial examinations had diminished the glory of noble families, forcing their descendants to abandon their ancestral homes for official careers.

He declared that this banquet and the viewing of the Wei family's newly unearthed merit-record pillar served as a powerful reminder of their shared heritage and a warning against further decline. Wei Tao and his wife, Ju Niang, then unveiled the family’s merit-record pillar. Pei Xijun recognized it as an ancient relic from the Northern Dynasties. Wei Tao expressed regret that a piece bearing the "Wei" character was missing but remained hopeful for its return.

When asked by Chancellor Cui, Ju Niang deferred to her husband to read the inscription, which detailed the Wei family’s long and distinguished history, boasting generations of high-ranking officials and scholars and asserting their unparalleled prominence among noble clans. Amidst the celebratory atmosphere, Wei Jia, Wei Tao's sister, suddenly rushed into the courtyard in distress, loudly proclaiming that a noblewoman like herself should not marry a merchant and attempted to harm herself by striking the pillar.

Wei Tao intervened, and Pei Xijun helped Ju Niang take Wei Jia away. Ju Niang explained that her sister-in-law suffered from a "madness" that was exacerbated by strong emotions and had not responded well to traditional medical treatment. Pei Xijun kindly offered to invite Chicken Fei, a renowned physician and disciple of the Medicine King Sun Simiao, to treat Wei Jia, an offer Ju Niang gratefully accepted. Later, Chancellor Cui drew Lu Lingfeng aside for a private conversation.

He revealed that he had suggested Wei Tao host the banquet and stressed the superior standing of the Cui and Lu families over others. He cautioned Lu Lingfeng about Su Wuming, portraying him as a cunning and hypocritical individual who manipulated people by invoking the interests of the state and Master Di to achieve his personal agenda. Chancellor Cui emphasized that as elite nobles, they should remain true to their core ideals, unlike Su Wuming.

He expressed his view that the Emperor's role was secondary, disclosing that he had known the current Emperor personally but chose not to seek power through him. He stated his ambition to establish a new "noble court" where scholarship and high office were unified, similar to what Cui Hao of Northern Wei had envisioned.

In such a system, the Emperor would be a mere figurehead, and distinguished noble families like Cui, Lu, Zheng, and Wang would take turns governing, as their centuries of experience made them far more capable rulers. He asserted that the names Cui and Lu held more weight than even the Tang Emperor or the influential Princess he currently served, believing that noble families, unlike fleeting dynasties, would eternally stand firm.

Lu Lingfeng acknowledged agreement with many of Chancellor Cui’s points but questioned his motives for sharing such thoughts. Chancellor Cui explained that the Emperor mistrusted and sought to marginalize the noble families, whereas the Princess, Lu Lingfeng’s own birth mother, might empower them if she ascended the throne.

He urged Lu Lingfeng to choose a side, emphasizing that his current position as a Judicial Official was beneath a man of his lineage, and his true calling was to become a high-ranking official who governed the realm. He also suggested that Wei Tao, despite his current humble rank, would prove to be a valuable asset in their future endeavors. After the intense conversation, Lu Lingfeng and Pei Xijun bid farewell to Wei Tao and departed.

Back in the Ghost Market, Su Wuming and Chu Yingtao, dragging a grumbling Chicken Fei along, headed towards the Earth God Temple in search of Song Weng. To their surprise, the usually bustling temple was deserted. Chicken Fei learned from a local that a new Zoroastrian temple had been built nearby, drawing all the crowds away. The trio then proceeded to the new temple, where they found a masked high priest leading a crowded ritual.

Su Wuming identified the high priest as Shi Qiansui. Su Wuming confronted Shi Qiansui, initially accusing him of exploiting the new Zoroastrian temple for wealth. Shi Qiansui calmly explained that the temple was not his creation but rather built by the Ghost Market merchants themselves, who believed the market's strong "yin energy" made it easier to communicate with the spirits of the dead.

He clarified that all offerings collected were donated to the An Society to cover funeral expenses for merchants who had met tragic ends. This revelation alarmed Su Wuming, who pressed for more information, asking if there were other deceased merchants besides Hua Fu, Ma Kui, and He Qian. Shi Qiansui promptly produced a secret record from the Sabao Office.

This document detailed the disappearance of six merchants within the past ten days, including their names, occupations, times of disappearance, and last known districts. Shi Qiansui explained that he had withheld this information earlier because he distrusted "nobles like Lu Lingfeng," whom he believed inherently disdained merchants. Su Wuming, borrowing a lamp from a nearby vendor, then plotted the last known locations of the six missing merchants on a map of Chang'an's districts.

To his astonishment, the pattern of these locations formed the Chinese character "士," meaning "noble" or "scholar." Realizing the grave implications, Su Wuming immediately instructed Chu Yingtao to proceed to Tongji District, informing her that he had already dispatched three constables (Liu, Jia, and Luo) to investigate other districts indicated on the map for potential bodies. As they hurried through the night, they were stopped by a patrol. Su Wuming identified himself as being from the Yongzhou Prefecture Office.

One of the patrol officers recognized him from the "Red Tea case," revealing he was a former junior soldier who had since become a captain. Su Wuming dismissed them, but then remembered their need for speed and asked to borrow two horses.

Episode 29 Recap

Su Wuming and Chu Yingtao arrived in Tongji District and immediately called for the district head. Su Wuming, posing as Lu Lingfeng, the Yongzhou Judicial Official, inquired about the wealthiest merchant in the area. The district head explained that Tongji District, being a remote and southernmost district, was generally desolate, so affluent merchants rarely resided there.

However, he recalled that the old residence of Huan Yanfan, one of the Five Leaders of the Shenlong Coup, had recently been acquired by a successful boot merchant named Chen Chong. This information immediately put Su Wuming on edge. Meanwhile, Chen Chong knelt in his ancestral hall, lamenting to his ancestors that he, a descendant of a renowned Han and Wei family, had disgraced them by becoming a merchant instead of an official.

He expressed his disdain for the Jinguang Society members, who often engaged in shady dealings, but asserted that he had never partaken in such dishonorable acts. An assassin, who had secretly entered, overheard Chen Chong’s heartfelt confession. Surprisingly, the assassin withheld his attack, instead bowing reverently before the Chen family’s ancestral portrait before quietly departing. Moments later, Su Wuming and Chu Yingtao rushed in.

Still reeling from the encounter, Chen Chong cried out in alarm, inadvertently drawing the attention of the patrolling Imperial Guards. Upon learning of Su Wuming's actions, Lu Lingfeng was furious, criticizing him for acting on mere speculation and impersonating an official. Chu Yingtao defended Su Wuming, explaining that without an official title, he lacked the authority to conduct investigations, necessitating the use of Lu Lingfeng’s name to secure the district head’s cooperation.

However, Lu Lingfeng remained firm, stating that Su Wuming’s conduct tarnished the reputation of the Yongzhou Prefecture Office and disgraced their mentor, Master Di. Lu Lingfeng then dismissed Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao, confronting Su Wuming alone. He accused Su Wuming of being prejudiced against the gentry, pointing out that despite the available clues spanning multiple districts, Su Wuming had fixated on Tongji District.

Lu Lingfeng argued that many contemporary Metropolitan Graduates from the imperial examinations possessed only superficial literary skills, lacking the true talent for governance, and were solely motivated by official salaries. He contrasted this with gentry members, who possessed inherited knowledge and familiarity with court protocols, suggesting that reforming and revitalizing the gentry could be an effective strategy for governing the state. Reflecting on this, Su Wuming felt that his investigative approach from the previous night might have been flawed.

He admitted that he had indeed suspected the killer to be from the gentry, though he also acknowledged Lu Lingfeng’s grand vision for the gentry and recognized his integrity and concern for the common people, despite their differing views. Chu Yingtao, remembering she had left Chicken Fei at the Ghost Market, hurried with Pei Xijun to the Sushan Shop to find him. Pei Xijun then persuaded Chicken Fei to visit her residence to treat Wei Jia's mental illness.

At the Wei mansion, Wei Jia, terrified of strangers, screamed in protest upon seeing Chicken Fei. Du Juniang, Wei Jia's sister-in-law, apologized for her condition. After a careful observation, Chicken Fei determined that Wei Jia’s condition was treatable but required a long-term acupuncture regimen.

Since Wei Jia could not leave the mansion, Du Juniang, who had learned some acupuncture as part of her family’s education, offered to learn the specific techniques from Chicken Fei so she could administer the treatment herself. Impressed by Du Juniang’s innate talent and quick understanding, Chicken Fei immediately accepted her as a disciple after testing her skills.

He agreed to teach her a specialized set of needle techniques, promising that daily morning and evening treatments would lead to a swift recovery for Wei Jia. Du Juniang pledged to bring Wei Jia to personally thank him once she recovered. On their way back, Chu Yingtao, with her usual persuasive charm, showered Chicken Fei with praise, finally convincing him to return to the Ghost Market to search for Song Weng.

Meanwhile, given the increasing number of missing and murdered merchants, Lu Lingfeng ordered all related cases to be consolidated and handled by the Yongzhou Prefecture Office. Sheriff Wei informed Su Wuming about additional cases of missing merchants in Chang'an County that had not yet been formally reported.

Su Wuming conducted a second autopsy, concluding that the fatal weapon was not standard issue but a hard, irregularly shaped, sharp object, likely a large stone, causing blunt force trauma to the back of the head. Subsequently, more bodies matching this description were found in Shanhe and Chonghua Districts. A servant of a missing merchant in Anren District revealed that his master was a member of the Jinguang Society, an exclusive and wealthy organization within the An Society.

This solidified Su Wuming's suspicion that the killer was targeting members of the Jinguang Society. Lu Lingfeng observed the An Society distributing food and wine at the city gate, specifically for the poor and merchants, while explicitly excluding gentry families. A gentry man from Zhaoguo District, facing extreme poverty, publicly renounced his gentry status to receive aid, only to be assaulted by fellow gentry members. Sheriff Du Yu intervened to stop the fight, chastising the gentry for their public altercation.

When Lu Lingfeng questioned the An Society’s discriminatory distribution policy, a staff member explained that these rules were set by Chief He Bi, who had explicitly excluded gentry-dominated districts like Chongren, Taiping, Wuben, Xuanyang, Guangde, Zhaoguo, and Jinggong from their relief efforts. Du Yu then informed Lu Lingfeng that He Bi was at He Qian’s residence, arranging his brother’s funeral.

Du Yu also invited Lu Lingfeng to a family banquet in three days to celebrate the unearthing of his family's own merit-record pillar, hinting at the Du family's status comparable to the Wei family. Lu Lingfeng then sought out He Bi to question him about the Jinguang Society.

He Bi confirmed that he founded the society to highlight successful merchants and that deceased members like Hua Fu, Ma Kui, and his own brother He Qian were indeed part of it, thus confirming that the killer targeted Jinguang Society members. Lu Lingfeng later revisited Chen Chong for more details about the attempted assassination.

Chen Chong reiterated that the assailant’s weapon, hidden in a cloth sack, felt like a heavy, muffled object, possibly an iron weight or a large stone, aligning with Su Wuming’s autopsy findings. Chen Chong also mentioned that the Jinguang Society had temporarily suspended its gatherings due to the recent deaths and disappearances, and that its expanding villa was located in a fortuitous spot where the merit-record pillars of both the Wei and Du families had been unearthed.

This unexpected detail surprised Lu Lingfeng. That evening, Lu Lingfeng visited Pei Xijun, bringing her snacks. She was sketching a portrait of Wei Jia and shared details about her: Wei Jia, a beauty from the south of the city, had initially married into the Fufeng Dou family. Her husband, who had gained an official position through hereditary appointment, died months later. However, this was not the cause of her madness.

Pei Xijun then revealed that Wei Jia had controversially remarried a prominent merchant, leading to a break with her family. This new information sparked a realization in Lu Lingfeng: the wealthy merchant was very likely He Bi.

Episode 30 Recap

Hearing about Wei Jia's recent marriage, Lu Lingfeng visited Pei Xijun. Pei Xijun shared that Wei Jia had remarried a wealthy merchant, possibly He Bi, president of An Society, and noted that Wei Jia had moved back to her parents' home, wondering if they had divorced. Pei Xijun offered to gather more information at the Wei Mansion.

Lu Lingfeng then mentioned visiting her family's villa in the south of the city, learning that Yang Ji, the former beggar boy, was living there, studying, managing the property, and growing vegetables. Yang Ji had just sent two large baskets of produce. Lu Lingfeng visited the villa and found Yang Ji transformed into a strong young man. Yang Ji expressed gratitude to Miss Xijun for his care and his eagerness to accompany Lu Lingfeng into battle.

Lu Lingfeng tasked Yang Ji with a mission, clarifying it wasn't a return to the House of Sorrow to deal with women. Instead, he asked Yang Ji about a large villa under expansion nearby, which Yang Ji recognized as belonging to the wealthy An Society. Yang Ji, though disliking An Society's staff, regularly gave unsold vegetables to their laborers. Lu Lingfeng instructed Yang Ji to deliver fresh vegetables to the laborers the next day and discreetly gather information.

Meanwhile, Chicken Fei spotted Song Weng at the Zoroastrian temple and pursued him to an Earth God Temple. The dim, candlelit interior was eerie. As Chicken Fei called out to the vanished Song Weng, a large net dropped from above, trapping him. Song Weng appeared, triumphantly holding a Fengli cane. He boasted about his long experience in the Ghost Market, while Chicken Fei retorted that he was busy running his cane shop above ground during that time.

Song Weng threatened to make Chicken Fei vanish with the cane, but his attempts failed. Before he could escalate his attack, Chu Yingtao suddenly intervened, startling Song Weng into surrender and warning him that continued resistance would cost him his head. Back at the Yongzhou Prefecture Office, Lu Lingfeng found Su Wuming examining bodies. Recalling their previous disagreement, Lu Lingfeng apologized, and a shared smile dispelled their earlier tensions.

Su Wuming reported that six new bodies had been discovered across various districts, bringing the total number of victims to nine, including the previously found Hua Fu, Ma Kui, and He Qian. He explained that, except for Ma Kui and He Qian who died unusually, the other seven were killed by a heavy blow to the back of the head.

Bodies found in Chang'an County had been struck twice, one wound being sharp, while those from Wannian County sustained a single, flatter, and more forceful blow. Just then, Chicken Fei and Chu Yingtao brought Song Weng to the county office. Su Wuming gently chided Chicken Fei for his treatment of the elder, but Chicken Fei confidently stated he could have defeated Song Weng in a fair fight if it weren't for Chu Yingtao's interference.

Song Weng then confessed to selling a Fengli beast to a woman six months prior. Upon hearing his description, Pei Xijun immediately identified the woman as Du Juniang, a person Lu Lingfeng had also met recently. Chicken Fei then recalled a peculiar fragrance at the Wei Mansion when he visited with Pei Xijun. Juniang had dismissed it as ordinary sandalwood, but Chicken Fei now realized it was sandalwood mixed with the scent of Fengli fluid.

Lu Lingfeng commented that Yang Ji's information was clarifying matters, though Su Wuming added that the truth seemed to be taking an unfavorable turn. Later, Du Yu, the Sheriff of Wannian, personally delivered an invitation to Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming at the Yongzhou Prefecture Office. He invited them to his residence that evening to witness the newly unearthed Du family merit-record pillar. Du Yu emphasized that he was unlike Wei Tao, valuing friends based on merit, not lineage.

He expressed admiration for Lu Lingfeng and respect for Su Wuming, recognizing him as a disciple of Master Di. Both officials accepted the invitation. That evening, at the Du residence, Du Yu addressed his guests, acknowledging his rivalry with Wei Tao, who had prematurely hosted his own gentry-only banquet after their respective family merit-record pillars were discovered. Du Yu, proud of his Jingzhao Du family heritage, stated he was not so arrogant as to exclude those outside the gentry.

His invited guests, he explained, were "talents His Majesty relies on most." He particularly thanked Chancellor Lu and Attendant Yang for their presence, and praised Su Wuming's promising future despite his current lack of official rank. After several rounds of wine, Du Yu presented a magnificent, giant stone pillar, intricately carved with the Du family's ancestral achievements. He invited Chancellor Lu and Attendant Yang to unveil it. Noticing its incomplete state, Chancellor Lu inquired about the missing text.

Du Yu confidently recited the illustrious history of his ancestors, from Imperial Censor Du Zhou to General Zhennan Du Yu, highlighting their family's generations of "learning and loyalty." Attendant Yang then toasted Lu Lingfeng, remarking on the Emperor's high regard for his loyalty and achievements, and predicting that with Lu Tong aging and visually impaired, the Emperor's safety would increasingly depend on Lu Lingfeng. Du Yu announced entertainment from a popular Persian House troupe, encouraging everyone to enjoy the festivities.

Meanwhile, He Bi and Shi Qiansui arrived at Chen Chong's ancestral hall, having been invited. They found Chen Chong already bound in a woodshed. Wei Tao and Du Yu appeared. He Bi expressed annoyance that Chen Chong hadn't greeted them and questioned his ancestral status. Wei Tao declared their intention to "write the word 'gentry'" across Chang'an, with Tongji District being the final stroke. They planned to kill He Bi and Shi Qiansui using fragments of the merit-record pillar.

Wei Tao and Du Yu bowed to Mr. Taiqiu, seeking forgiveness for shedding the blood of treacherous merchants in the hall. As they prepared to strike, Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming burst through the door, loudly ordering them to stop. Lu Lingfeng confronted Du Yu, accusing him of using the banquet as a diversion.

Wei Tao accused Du Yu of delaying their capture, but Du Yu insisted he was only trying to protect Wei Tao, whom he saw as his brother and lifelong role model since childhood. Wei Tao fiercely claimed sole responsibility for all the murders. Du Yu, however, stated that Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming must have evidence to have tracked them.

Su Wuming clarified they lacked "ironclad evidence," but Yang Ji, while undercover, had learned from Jinguang Society laborers that during a villa expansion a month prior, two stone pillars—identified as the Wei and Du family merit-record pillars—were unearthed. Both families offered large sums for their return, but He Bi refused. Instead, he shattered the pillars for foundations and used the fragments as villa stepping stones, profoundly dishonoring the gentry.

Su Wuming then challenged He Bi, reminding him that as Wei Jia's husband, he was part of the Jingzhao Wei family, and questioning his actions. Wei Tao angrily disavowed He Bi as a Wei son-in-law. Su Wuming continued, revealing that Wei Tao and Du Yu had then infiltrated the Jinguang Society at night to reclaim the fragments, an act he believed mended their strained relationship. Wei Tao denied any past animosity, claiming their families were always united.

He reiterated his sole culpability and urged Du Yu to surrender. Du Yu, however, steadfastly maintained that the Wei and Du families were one, sharing both glory and disgrace. Su Wuming deduced that Wei Tao was responsible for the Chang'an County murders, and Du Yu for those in Wannian County, noting Du Yu's efficient, single-strike kills. He questioned why Du Yu, with such martial prowess, didn't serve the Tang Empire.

Wei Tao tried to stop Du Yu, admitting he led him astray. Lu Lingfeng personally apprehended Wei Tao and Du Yu. He suspected a deeper motive behind Wei Tao's cruelty, especially in He Qian's murder, but Wei Tao remained silent, expressing a desire for death. Du Yu also wished to die with him. Su Wuming, appealing to Du Yu's sense of gentry honor, finally persuaded them to surrender. Lu Lingfeng then asked how they were traced.

Su Wuming revealed it was due to "a drop of Fengli fluid," explaining that Wei Tao's chronic headaches led Du Juniang to purchase a Fengli beast from the Sifang Cane Shop, finding the origin of the fluid distasteful. Su Wuming asserted that the beast had by then been located at their residence.

The next morning, Du Juniang struck the drum at the Yongzhou Prefecture Office, not to protest for her husband and brother, who had confessed to their crimes, but to demand the return of the fragmented Wei and Du family merit-record pillars. She emphasized that despite being used as weapons, these fragments represented their ancestors' honor and were cherished by the Wei and Du clans.

Lu Lingfeng readily agreed and dispatched Chicken Fei and Pei Xijun to accompany her to the Wei Mansion. At the Wei Mansion, they found a group of thugs, sent by He Bi, attempting to abduct Wei Jia. The thugs accused Wei Tao of murder and kidnapping, demanding Wei Jia's return. Undaunted, Du Juniang challenged them to breach her home if they dared. Encouraged by "Sir He's" promised reward, the thugs charged.

Du Juniang, wielding a twelve-foot spear, led her maids and household guards to form a defensive line. Over ten archers on either side of the courtyard drew their bows, intimidating the attackers. The terrified thugs fled, begging for mercy and promising never to return. Lu Lingfeng and his companions were greatly impressed, praising Du Juniang's bravery, likening her to Xun Guan and Xie Daoyun.

Chicken Fei added that Du Juniang was also a skilled acupuncturist and had significantly improved Wei Jia's condition, alleviating her distress. However, Du Juniang had deliberately halted Wei Jia's treatment, fearing that a full recovery would cause her to remember past events. This intentional interruption left them without a clear path to uncover the full truth behind the crimes. They considered questioning He Bi, but Su Wuming's disciple pointed out that He Bi hadn't yet committed any crime. Chu Yingtao volunteered to interrogate him.

Episode 31 Recap

Disguised as ox-headed and horse-faced demons and other malevolent spirits, Lu Lingfeng and his companions interrogated He Bi, terrifying him into a full confession of his crimes. He Bi, born to a merchant family, explained that he sought to establish himself in Chang'an by marrying into the gentry, so he proposed to Wei Jia, a newly widowed lady from the Wei family. Wei Jia was initially aloof, and her brother Wei Tao tried every means to stop the union.

However, He Bi’s cunning methods won Wei Jia over, and she defied her family to marry him. He Bi recounted that Wei Tao, having seen through his deceitful nature, never supported him but instead thwarted his efforts at every turn, causing He Bi to harbor deep resentment. Later, He Bi’s business failed, leaving him hundreds of thousands of coins in debt.

Shi Qiansui offered assistance, but being a lecher, demanded to spend a night with a gentry lady as his condition. For his own benefit, He Bi drugged Wei Jia’s food and delivered her to Shi Qiansui. However, the dosage was insufficient, and Wei Jia awoke before dawn, discovering Shi Qiansui. Overcome with shame and rage, she attempted to take her own life.

Fearing the truth would reach Wei Tao, He Bi imprisoned Wei Jia, repeatedly beating her until she went mad. His younger brother, He Qian, who suffered from insomnia and was living in the house at the time, once tried to suffocate Wei Jia with a wet paper mask to quiet her constant wailing. He Bi stopped him, realizing Wei Jia still held value.

As Shi Qiansui had already spread the scandal, He Bi began exploiting Wei Jia by having merchants from the Jinguang Society pay a fortune for a night with her. Pei Xijun, outraged by the confession, rushed forward and slapped He Bi until Lu Lingfeng intervened. Lu Lingfeng grabbed He Bi by the collar, demanding further details. He Bi revealed that Wei Jia had managed to escape and returned to her family.

When he went to reclaim her, Wei Tao refused, threatening to kill him. Later, during the expansion of the Jinguang Society’s villa, the ancestral merit-record pillars of the Wei and Du families were unearthed. He Bi rejected their offers to buy them back, instead shattering the pillars to use as foundations and steps for the villa, an insult to the gentry families’ honor.

Su Wuming analyzed that Wei Jia’s madness was intermittent, meaning she must have had lucid moments to inform Du Juniang of her suffering. This explained Wei Tao’s unusually brutal method of killing He Qian, which clearly indicated his immense anger and knowledge of his sister's abuse. Lu Lingfeng, despite being an imperial official, declared that such a despicable merchant deserved death. Meanwhile, Chancellor Cui hurried to the Grand Princess’s mansion, passionately advocating for Wei Tao.

He argued that Wei Tao was a pillar of the state, loyal to the Princess, and the merchants he killed were wicked individuals from the Jinguang Society who had harmed many innocent women. The Grand Princess, who valued the gentry, admitted she hadn't paid much attention to Wei Tao before. However, his drastic actions to avenge his sister and uphold his family’s honor now made her regard him with new respect.

She acknowledged that state governance should not be based on impulse and expressed interest in awaiting the Emperor's attitude on how to handle Wei Tao and Du Yu. The Emperor, too, expressed his disgust at merchants like He Bi for tarnishing the merchant community's reputation. Yang Xun vehemently defended Du Yu, stating he was merely an accomplice whose actions were understandable, especially after the Du family’s ancestral merit-record pillar was destroyed.

Yang Xun highlighted Du Yu's loyalty to the Emperor, describing him as a rare talent of the new generation of the Du family, skilled in both literature and martial arts, and a promising individual for high office. The Emperor noted Yang Xun's unusual fervor in pleading for someone. While appreciating Du Yu's talent, the Emperor was hesitant to pardon him due to the multiple lives he had taken, fearing public criticism of favoritism towards the gentry.

He, too, decided to observe the Grand Princess's stance. With both the Grand Princess and the Emperor yet to make a final decision, Lu Lingfeng went to the Grand Princess. Though he had intended to plead for Wei Tao and Du Yu, Wei Tao had already refused any such plea, accepting that as a county sheriff, he knew the law and yet broke it, and therefore deserved to face justice.

Lu Lingfeng explained his own stance to the Grand Princess, stating that as Master Di’s disciple, he adhered to the principle that the law showed no mercy. He acknowledged that Wei Tao and Du Yu’s anger was understandable, but taking multiple lives was an unforgivable crime. He asserted that the gentry should hold themselves to higher standards, and if he himself were to break the law, he too should be severely punished.

Impressed by his integrity, the Grand Princess then declared her judgment: if Wei Tao and Du Yu were to be beheaded, He Bi would be cut in half at the waist; if they were cut in half at the waist, He Bi would be torn apart by five horses. As for Shi Qiansui, she ordered him stripped of his position, his property confiscated, and permanently banished from all Tang territory. Upon hearing his aunt's decision, the Emperor fully approved.

He then appointed Kang Yuanli, the West Market Magistrate, to also serve as the Chief High Priest. When Xiong Qiannian offered his apologies for the incidents in Chang'an, the Emperor dismissed the blame, noting that Xiong had only recently returned to the capital. He then praised Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming for their swift resolution of the major case.

Su Wuming, currently serving as the Chief of Secret Agents for Yongzhou Prefecture, humbly attributed more credit to Lu Lingfeng for the Red Tea case and suggested that Lu Lingfeng, as the Judicial Official of Yongzhou Prefecture, deserved a promotion as his current position was beneath his abilities. The Emperor, in a teasing manner, accused Su Wuming of not wanting an official post from him but rather waiting for a title from the Grand Princess.

Though speechless, Su Wuming did not deny it. The Emperor, in an unexpected move, then appointed Su Wuming as the Wannian County Sheriff, instructing him to always remember this act of grace. On the day of the execution, He Bi was publicly cut in half at the waist, to the satisfaction of the onlookers. As Wei Tao and Du Yu were brought to the execution platform, the crowd silently parted.

The relatives of the Wei and Du families, dressed in white mourning clothes, stood at the forefront. Du Juniang, holding her two children, Qing and Ya, vowed to raise them to uphold the Wei family's tradition of poetry and ritual and the Du family's legacy of scholarship, so they might serve the country and the Tang Empire.

Wei Tao and Du Yu stopped their children from kneeling, telling them that as descendants of the Wei and Du families, they must adhere to family traditions and laws, and study diligently. They emphasized that true dignity came not solely from bloodline, but from the knowledge one held and loyalty to family and country. Wei Tao then told his children to "remember this moment, but you must forget today." As the executioner’s axe fell, Lu Lingfeng, in tears, bowed deeply.

Blood splattered the platform, and the crowd wept. Du Juniang, heartbroken, bid her husband Wei Tao farewell, promising to reunite in the next life, and comforted Du Yu, telling him they would be siblings again. After the executions, Du Juniang, suppressing her grief, ordered that no spirit shrine be set up.

She instructed Qing and Ya to tell Wei Jia that Wei Tao had been appointed by the court to lead troops at the border, and forbade anyone in the household from ever revealing the truth to Wei Jia. She explained that Wei Tao’s lifelong wish was to protect the women of his family from harm, and now that Wei Jia’s madness was subsiding, she deserved to live the rest of her life in happiness.

Once the reconstructed merit-record pillars of both families were put in place, Du Juniang watched Wei Jia happily playing among the flowers, a gentle breeze rustling, symbolizing the enduring spirit of the Wei and Du families. Later, the Emperor, reviewing old documents, realized the injustice that coroners, due to their lowly status, were unable to take imperial examinations. He resolved to abolish this discriminatory practice to correct societal prejudice.

Meanwhile, the mortician Yin Yao was preparing a young girl's body when he discovered she had not hanged herself but had been murdered. He meticulously explained the forensic signs to the distraught father, convincing him that his daughter had been strangled before being hanged. Just at this time, Su Wuming arrived at Wannian County to take up his new post as Sheriff and immediately took on this case of apparent suicide that was, in fact, murder.

Episode 32 Recap

Su Wuming personally examined the female corpse, confirming Yin Yao's findings down to the last detail. He commended Yin Yao for not using cosmetics to conceal the strangulation marks and finger imprints on the victim's neck, which was crucial to uncovering the truth. The victim's father had already harbored suspicions about the killer. He explained that his remarried wife was unfaithful and often engaged in illicit affairs while he was away, an act once witnessed by his daughter, the deceased.

The stepmother's suspicious behavior—claiming fear and fleeing to her family home after discovering the hanged body—further fueled his doubts. Chu Yingtao was tasked with apprehending the stepmother and her lover. Su Wuming advised her that the lover, an alchemist skilled in martial arts, lived nearby. He instructed her to question him, check his home for signs of escape if he was absent, and prepare a sketch for his arrest if he had fled.

Meanwhile, Su Wuming and Fei Jishi watched Yin Yao meticulously prepare the body, impressed by his skillful makeup. Noting Wannian County's urgent need for coroners, Su Wuming extended an invitation to Yin Yao for drinks, hoping to recruit him. However, Yin Yao, a man of proud disposition, politely declined, citing other important commitments. Fei Jishi found Yin Yao's refusal arrogant, but Su Wuming appreciated the talented man's pride. Soon after, Chu Yingtao returned with the two suspects.

They both confessed to strangling the victim after she discovered their affair and then staging the scene to appear as a suicide, thus solving the case. Following a lead provided by Captain Xu, Su Wuming, Fei Jishi, and Chu Yingtao sought out the legendary coroner Geng Wushang. Chu Yingtao knocked several times, and when the door creaked open, a figure wearing a terrifying green-faced, fanged mask emerged, causing the trio to instinctively recoil.

Upon hearing Su Wuming introduce himself, the masked figure removed it to reveal a young woman, Suchan, Geng Wushang's daughter. Geng Wushang warmly greeted them, recognizing Su Wuming as Master Di's former companion, and noting his rise in officialdom. He explained that his lifelong career as a coroner had garnered him many enemies, leading to frequent harassment. To deter these unwelcome visitors, he had Suchan wear the frightening mask.

Fei Jishi jokingly suggested the harassers might be drawn to Suchan’s beauty, not her father’s enemies. Suchan then informed them that it was Geng Wushang's 70th birthday, and his eldest disciple, Zhong Shizai, had reserved the Lanting room at Dukang Restaurant for a celebratory banquet. She also mentioned that his second disciple, Yin Yao, would be in attendance. Su Wuming confirmed having just met Yin Yao and praised his invaluable contribution to the recent murder case.

Geng Wushang spoke highly of Yin Yao's talent but expressed regret over his decision to leave the coroner profession. Su Wuming, seizing the opportunity to recruit talent, requested to join the birthday celebration, which Geng Wushang graciously accepted. Fei Jishi, observing Geng Wushang, noted signs of a skin disease and offered to treat it in exchange for a drink, an offer Geng Wushang dismissed as merely signs of old age.

At the Dukang Restaurant, in the Lanting room, Su Wuming introduced Fei Jishi and Chu Yingtao to Zhong Shizai and Yin Yao. Zhong Shizai, out of humility and respect, initially offered the main seat to Suchan, acknowledging her filial devotion to her father. However, Geng Wushang insisted that Zhong Shizai, as the host and eldest disciple, occupy the seat.

Their meal was interrupted when a man named Dong Yue mistakenly entered their private room, looked surprised, and quickly retreated after checking the plaque outside. Su Wuming, intrigued by their odd reaction, inquired about the man. Zhong Shizai explained that Dong Yue was a fellow coroner, and his master, Ge Jiuquan, a former coroner from the Ministry of Justice, had a long-standing feud with Geng Wushang, prohibiting any association between their disciples.

As the group raised their cups to toast Geng Wushang, a terrifying scream echoed from the adjacent Meiwu room. Rushing to investigate, they found Dong Yue collapsed on the floor, a sharp arrow lodged in his neck, already dead. Su Wuming directed Chu Yingtao to check the building across the street for clues, where she discovered fresh footprints. Su Wuming noted that all the other occupants of Dong Yue’s table were also coroners.

Su Wuming brought all the coroners present at Dong Yue's table back to the county office for interrogation. They claimed to have been invited by a "General Lyu," whom none of them knew personally. However, they felt compelled to accept due to the general's presumed high status and the allure of dining at the newly popular and expensive Dukang Restaurant.

They recounted that General Lyu had instructed the restaurant to serve food promptly at 3 PM, regardless of whether all guests had arrived. During the meal, Dong Yue complained about the sun shining on him and stood up to close the window, at which point the fatal arrow struck. Su Wuming then summoned the restaurant manager and Qiu, the servant who had served the Meiwu room.

The manager revealed that Qiu had been caught stealing food from customers three days prior and was facing dismissal. Qiu had been working extra diligently to save his job, but inexplicably fled after the murder. The manager provided Qiu's address. He also disclosed that the Meiwu private room had been booked by a booking agent named Gao Wuniang on behalf of "General Lyu," a common practice where real names are often replaced with aliases.

Gao Wuniang was also brought in for questioning. Chu Yingtao located and apprehended Qiu, who, in a state of panic, confessed to being paid 100 coins by a masked man to open the window while serving dishes in the Meiwu room, unaware that his actions would lead to a murder.

Su Wuming, considering Qiu's greed-driven complicity, sentenced him to three strokes of the cane as a punishment, advising him to abandon petty theft and choose a different profession if he could not resist temptation. Gao Wuniang corroborated Qiu's story, stating that a masked man, identifying himself as "General Lyu," had hired her to book the specific Meiwu room, providing precise instructions for the time and prompt food service.

Chu Yingtao was instructed to obtain a detailed description of the masked man from Gao Wuniang for a portrait. Dong Yue's apprentice arrived to retrieve his master's body. He revealed that Dong Yue had received the invitation without suspicion, confidently believing he would win the title of "Chang'an's Best Coroner" from Geng Wushang, despite an upcoming Coroners' Contest.

Su Wuming realized that the news of the Coroners' Contest, which he previously thought was only known to Yongzhou Prefecture officials, had already spread throughout the coroner profession. Fei Jishi suggested that a rival coroner might be the killer, but Su Wuming found this deduction too premature. Back at his home, Geng Wushang learned of Zhong Shizai's intention to participate in the contest.

With Yin Yao and Suchan as witnesses, Geng Wushang announced his decision to formally expel Zhong Shizai from his tutelage. Despite Zhong Shizai's distress and confusion, Geng Wushang explained that this was for his disciple's own good. He believed that if Zhong Shizai remained his disciple, he would hold back during the competition out of respect, preventing him from fully showcasing his abilities and potentially jeopardizing his future.

Geng Wushang also declared his own participation in the contest, motivated by a desire to abolish his lowly status, secure a position in the county office, and ensure a better future for his daughter, Suchan. Shocked but understanding, Zhong Shizai accepted his master's decision, committing to compete without reservation.

Episode 33 Recap

Su Wuming and Fei Jishi arrived at Geng Wushang's home, where they witnessed Geng Wushang expelling his senior disciple, Zhong Shizai, from his tutelage. Once Zhong Shizai left, Geng Wushang, anticipating Su Wuming's questions, explained the current state of coroners in Chang'an.

Since his retirement, and Yin Yao's departure from the profession, only five acknowledged coroners remained: Dong Yue, who served the Ministry of Justice; Xiahou Shuang, associated with the Court of Judicial Review; Liu Wei from the Yongzhou Prefecture; Zheng Hao from Chang'an County; and Zhong Shizai himself. Geng Wushang clarified that Zhong Shizai could be ruled out as a suspect in Dong Yue's murder, as they were both at Geng's birthday banquet when the crime occurred.

He suggested that if the other three coroners had heard about the upcoming Coroners' Contest but kept it hidden, they would be primary suspects. On their way back, Fei Jishi expressed disdain for Geng Wushang's decision to compete at his age, calling him an ordinary man, but Su Wuming countered that it highlighted the coroners' profound desire for such an opportunity. Later, Su Wuming met with Lu Lingfeng to analyze the case.

They quickly eliminated Liu Wei, who was with Lu Lingfeng at the time of the murder. Xiahou Shuang was also temporarily ruled out due to his known integrity and their prior acquaintance. Their investigation then focused on Zheng Hao. Su Wuming explained Zheng Hao's unique background: he hailed from the prestigious Zheng family of Xingyang, one of the Five Clans and Seven Surnames.

His ancestor, a skilled archer and general under Dou Jiande, was punished by Emperor Taizong, who, enraged by the ancestor's refusal to surrender and his continued pride in his noble status, condemned his lineage to work as coroners for generations, forever retaining their lowly status. Given Zheng Hao's ancestral archery prowess and Dong Yue's death by a feathered arrow, he became their prime suspect.

Feeling uncertain without Chu Yingtao's martial arts support, Su Wuming persuaded Lu Lingfeng to accompany him to Zheng Hao's residence. At Zheng Hao's home, they observed freshly hunted foxes and hares, all killed by a single arrow, confirming his legendary marksmanship. Zheng Hao, an arrogant man, initially denied any knowledge of the Coroners' Contest or Dong Yue's murder. However, Su Wuming quickly exposed his lies.

He pointed out that the hunting kills displayed did not appear to have been shot that afternoon as Zheng Hao claimed, but rather earlier in the morning, judging by the wounds and the smell of blood. When Lu Lingfeng asked to see his bow, Zheng Hao, enraged, attempted to shoot them but was swiftly disarmed and subdued by Lu Lingfeng. At the county office, Zheng Hao continued to deny the murder.

Su Wuming presented his evidence: footprints found at the crime scene, on the second floor of the wine storeroom across from Dukang Restaurant, perfectly matched Zheng Hao's boots. Furthermore, the arrow that killed Dong Yue was a brand-new feathered arrow. Su Wuming explained that a standard quiver holds thirty arrows, and new quivers typically come with new arrows.

After accounting for the two arrows from hunting and the two arrows Zheng Hao fired at them, his new quiver should have contained twenty-six arrows, but only twenty-five were present. The missing arrow was the one that killed Dong Yue, proving it came from his quiver. Faced with this overwhelming evidence, Zheng Hao finally confessed.

He admitted he had borne a grudge against Dong Yue since an incident a fortnight prior when Dong Yue, while dismissing him, had insulted his family's lineage and belittled his skills. He then received an anonymous letter providing a detailed plan to shoot Dong Yue from the Gaochang Tavern's warehouse.

He chose to act, not only for revenge but also to eliminate Dong Yue, whom he considered the most skilled among the five coroners, thus increasing his own chances in the upcoming Coroners' Contest and a potential opportunity to lift his family's lowly status. Su Wuming then examined the anonymous letter, confirming it was written by a single person. Pei Xijun sketched a portrait of the individual who delivered the letter, based on Gao Wuniang's description.

However, the man had worn a cleverly crafted fake beard, making his true features difficult to ascertain. Later that evening, as everyone gathered, Chu Yingtao requested permission to stay in Wannian County to protect Su Wuming, which Lu Lingfeng granted. Suddenly, Su Wuming expressed concern for Geng Wushang's safety and instructed Chu Yingtao to go and guard him discreetly.

Meanwhile, Zhong Shizai was chastising his son, Zhong Pi, for failing to fully recite "Ode to the Goddess of Luo" for the second consecutive day. His daughter, Zhong Jie, intervened, explaining that a local rascal had been harassing Zhong Pi, mocking him for studying poetry instead of learning to examine corpses, and Zhong Pi had been protecting her.

Moved by his children's plight, Zhong Shizai shared his ambitious plan: he intended to win the Coroners' Contest to shed their lowly status, enabling Zhong Pi to take the imperial examinations and Zhong Jie to become a renowned painting master and marry into a noble family.

At the same time, Geng Wushang, seemingly in ill health but working diligently, was completing his magnum opus, a comprehensive coroner's manual, and teaching his daughter Su Chan critical autopsy techniques, including how to identify strychnine poisoning, which he noted was rarely seen but crucial for a good coroner to know.

Later that night, a young woman, having recently found a purse containing forty-nine coins and a slip of paper marked with "one," interpreted it as a sign of a fated romance arriving within a day. She was lured by a man reciting romantic poetry outside her door to a nearby abandoned house, where she was brutally murdered by a sharp weapon. Concurrently, Zhong Shizai, clad in a mask and dark clothing, infiltrated Geng Wushang's residence, intending to murder him.

However, Chu Yingtao, who was secretly guarding Geng, leaped down from the rafters and intercepted him, forcing Zhong Shizai to flee. Geng Wushang, having anticipated the attack from his once beloved disciple, felt a deep sense of betrayal and sorrow. The following day, as Zhong Shizai attempted to leave the city with his children, Lu Lingfeng intercepted him. Mindful of the children, Lu Lingfeng did not disclose the reason for the stop.

Zhong Shizai, understanding the unspoken accusation, sent his children home before engaging Lu Lingfeng in a fierce but ultimately losing battle, leading to his capture. At the county office, Su Wuming interrogated Zhong Shizai. Observing Pei Xijun's exquisite paintings, Zhong Shizai knelt and desperately pleaded with her to take Zhong Jie as an apprentice, or even adopt her, to spare his daughter from their family's lowly status.

Su Wuming acknowledged Zhong Shizai's deep love for his children but lamented that it could not justify his crimes. Zhong Shizai, in tears, vehemently denied directly killing anyone, insisting he merely invited people to a meal and that Zheng Hao was solely responsible for the revenge murder.

Su Wuming then presented further evidence: the ink used in the anonymous letter contained brown pigments, indicative of painting materials, and it was written in a disguised hand, connecting Zhong Shizai to the letter through his daughter's art supplies. He then revealed that the masked clothing and fake beard matching the description of the letter carrier, as depicted by Pei Xijun, had been found in Zhong Shizai's home.

Su Wuming pressed him, questioning his attempt to murder his own mentor, Geng Wushang, all for victory in the Coroners' Contest. Zhong Shizai denied this too, but Geng Wushang had already foreseen his attempts to escape responsibility.

Episode 34 Recap

Geng Wushang had long suspected his eldest disciple, Zhong Shizai, was the true culprit. The first time Geng saw Zhong, he was covered in blood with numerous wounds, clearly having survived a violent fight. As Geng's wife had passed away years ago, leaving him no children, he had treated Zhong Shizai, his first apprentice, as his own son, teaching him everything he knew.

However, Geng gradually realized Zhong was unsuitable for the coroner profession due to a past act of killing in his youth. Working constantly with corpses and murder weapons could easily trigger one's murderous intent. While Zhong Shizai's skills as a coroner were among the best in Chang'an, he was not guaranteed a top-three spot in the upcoming contest; he was, in fact, exceptionally cunning and adept at schemes.

Therefore, when the suspicious nature of Dong Yue's death came to light, Geng immediately suspected Zhong. Geng feigned an intention to participate in the contest and left a written statement declaring that if any harm befell him, Zhong Shizai would be the killer. Zhong Shizai, now incarcerated, confessed his dark past. He recounted being born into servitude, yet he surpassed his young master in both horsemanship and literary talent, which fueled his master's resentment. He was frequently beaten.

To continue his studies, Zhong endured years of mistreatment, narrowly escaping death multiple times. Unable to bear it any longer, he murdered his master's family of three, staging it as a bandit attack and inflicting wounds upon himself to deceive the authorities. Zhong acknowledged Geng's assessment that he had long grown weary of being a coroner; every corpse, weapon, and crime scene reminded him of his own past.

He realized with dismay that having embarked on a path of murder, his aspirations and ambitions were now unattainable, and there was no turning back. When news of a new murder case broke, Zhong instinctively offered his services as a coroner, only to be struck by the grim reality that he was now a prisoner, his right to perform autopsies a distant dream. With a need for a coroner, Su Wuming sent Captain Xu to request Geng Wushang's assistance.

However, Geng, citing old age and illness, declined, sending his daughter, Suchan, in his stead. Although Suchan initially expressed doubts about a woman becoming a coroner, Geng encouraged her, pointing out that a female coroner would be more convenient for examining female bodies and that Su Wuming, being a disciple of Master Di, would not be bound by tradition. Suchan, who had inherited Geng's profound knowledge, performed an autopsy on the decapitated female victim with remarkable precision.

She noted the contracted skin below the neck, protruding cervical vertebrae, and spatter-pattern bloodstains, indicating a hacking death by a sharp weapon in a single strike, likely between 9 PM and midnight. Impressed by Suchan's clear reasoning and accurate judgment, Su Wuming declared that she had examined the body thoroughly and would surely inherit Geng's legacy.

He authorized the highest autopsy fee for her and announced that Suchan would be the official female coroner for Wannian County, stating that the county office could request her services whenever needed. The victim's parents told Su Wuming that their daughter had found a red money pouch in the market. Su Wuming's subsequent inquiries among the locals, however, yielded no one who recognized the pouch. Meanwhile, Suchan visited Yin Yao, her fellow apprentice, bringing him a homemade Three-Fruit Bone Broth.

She mentioned her new role as a coroner and tried to persuade Yin Yao to return to the profession, believing his talent would ensure him first place in the upcoming contest. Yin Yao, however, had committed to being a mortician and gently refused. He explained that he would become the best mortician in Chang'an and would continue to visit their mentor. Yin Yao was then called to perform a mortuary makeup service for the recently deceased woman.

He conducted a solemn ritual, stepping the Yu gait and performing a funerary dance before meticulously applying powder and makeup to her face. When Su Wuming and Chu Yingtao arrived, they saw that Yin Yao had made the deceased appear serene and beautiful, for which he only accepted fifty coins to cover the cost of materials.

Witnessing this, Su Wuming was deeply moved by the importance of a mortician's duty and abandoned his intention to persuade Yin Yao to return to the coroner's trade. He also noted that based on the scene, the deceased had left her room voluntarily, as there were no signs of forced entry or struggle, despite the proximity to her parents' bedroom.

The case stalled, prompting Su Wuming to repeatedly examine the money pouch at the sushan shop, seeking input from Chicken Fei. Chicken Fei immediately recognized it as a "life-borrowing pouch," an arcane ritual from the Ghost Market. He explained that relatives of a dying person would place money in such a pouch and discard it in public places. If someone picked it up, their lifespan would be transferred to the ailing individual.

However, killing the person who picked up the pouch was an even more sinister method of "life-stealing," a rare act even in the Ghost Market. Pei Xijun, upon closer inspection of the note inside the pouch, which bore the character "one," observed that the handwriting was crude and forceful, suggesting the writer had never received formal education.

That night, Dong Yue's apprentice, while burning paper offerings outside the coffin shop for his deceased master, discovered a money pouch by the roadside and picked it up. The next day, he was found dead in the shop, a long sword piercing his chest. Captain Xu initially concluded it was suicide, but Su Wuming immediately challenged this, pointing to another "life-borrowing pouch" on the counter, containing a note with the character "three" and forty-nine copper coins.

Suchan was called to examine the body and confirmed it was a homicide. She noted that the deceased's hands bore no defensive wounds, and given the sword's dullness and the arm length, self-infliction was impossible. She also found the blood spatter pattern unusually strange, requiring further investigation. Suchan reported her findings to Geng Wushang at home.

Noticing a bag of strychnine by his bed, she learned that he had been using it in small, medicinal doses to alleviate the pain from chronic sores. Geng Wushang, despite his illness, later visited Su Wuming to examine the two "life-borrowing pouches." He recalled a similar case from twenty years prior in Chang'an, where a merchant, seeking to extend his father's life, killed four people using pouches marked "one," "three," "six," and "nine."

Geng Wushang's expression changed drastically when he saw the handwriting on the notes, realizing the grave implications. Geng Wushang then invited Yin Yao to his home for a meal. He confessed that over the past three years, he had dedicated himself to compiling his lifelong autopsy findings into "The Autopsy Chronicles." He asked Yin Yao to co-author the final chapter with him, with the book to be credited to both master and disciple.

Yin Yao was deeply honored and, to his surprise, learned the truth about Geng's recommendation of Zhong Shizai to the Ministry of Justice and the Court of Judicial Review years ago. It wasn't a slight to Yin Yao but a deliberate choice by Geng, who cherished Yin Yao's talent and wanted him to stay by his side longer to help complete this important work. This revelation brought Yin Yao to tears, as he realized he had wrongly blamed his mentor.

Geng assured Yin Yao that his choice to be a mortician was honorable, for ensuring the deceased's dignity was as crucial as uncovering the truth of their death, and that his path did not affect his standing as a co-author. Geng Wushang produced a pre-written document to expel Zhong Shizai from their tutelage, explaining that it was to protect the integrity of the forthcoming "Autopsy Chronicles." As per the guild's rules, the document required the signatures of all disciples.

When Yin Yao signed his name and the date, June 23rd, Geng Wushang's face fell, as Yin Yao's handwriting was identical to that on the notes found in the "life-borrowing pouches." That same night, another beggar was found dead on the street, a "life-borrowing pouch" bearing the character "six" beside him, signaling that the killings were far from over. Suchan returned home from the autopsy to find her father, Geng Wushang, dead.

Episode 35 Recap

Su Wuming rushes to Geng Wushang’s residence, where he finds Suchan weeping over her father’s body. Suchan informs him that her father died of strychnine poisoning, which he had been taking to alleviate the pain from sores. She adds that she observed no signs of struggle, leading her to believe it was an overdose. Chicken Fei corroborates this, explaining that strychnine is a rare and dangerous medicine.

An overdose causes immense suffering, making the body curl like a loom, which is why it is also known as "loom poison." Yin Yao, Geng Wushang’s student, then bursts in, distraught. He insists that his mentor, a skilled physician, would never accidentally overdose and vehemently rejects the suggestion that Geng Wushang would commit suicide due to pain, given his resilience throughout life.

Yin Yao pleads with Su Wuming to allow him to conduct an autopsy to find the true killer, to which Su Wuming agrees, instructing Suchan to assist. While Yin Yao conducts the autopsy, Su Wuming investigates Geng Wushang’s study. He finds the unfinished manuscript of "The Autopsy Chronicles." The title for the planned final chapter, "Why Coroners Must Not Kill," catches his attention, as does a separate note stating, "Yin Yao is not allowed to work as a coroner again."

He also examines the expulsion document for Zhong Shizai, where he discovers that Yin Yao’s signature is identical to the handwriting on the notes from the 'life-borrowing pouch' murders. Meanwhile, Pei Xijun discusses the previous "life-borrowing pouches" with Su Wuming, suggesting a public notice is needed to prevent panic, and noting the writer's unrefined penmanship. After completing his autopsy, Yin Yao confirms Geng Wushang’s death was a suicide.

Overcome with grief, he publicly pledges to return to the coroner profession, vowing to remain in it for life. He attributes his mentor’s death to his own prior refusal to co-author "The Autopsy Chronicles" and resume the profession, believing Geng Wushang used his death as a desperate plea. Yin Yao declares his intention to compete in the upcoming Coroners’ Contest and win to honor his master’s legacy.

Pei Xijun and Chu Yingtao express their support, but Su Wuming remains visibly troubled. The following morning, Yin Yao sells his entire box of mortician’s makeup for three thousand coins, which was his sole possession. He presents the money to Suchan and formally proposes marriage, pledging to care for her for life. He envisions a future where they live in a spacious, bright mansion, free from their lowly status, with their children able to pursue scholarly careers.

When Suchan questions his certainty of winning the upcoming Coroners’ Contest, Yin Yao admits his initial lack of confidence. However, he now believes that by presenting "The Autopsy Chronicles"—which he claims to have co-authored with Geng Wushang—to the county office, he will undoubtedly secure the title of the nation’s best coroner. Suchan expresses her belief that her father would prefer him to win on his own merit.

Yin Yao then reveals that Suchan is not Geng Wushang’s biological daughter, just as he himself was adopted and she was an abandoned infant taken in by Geng Wushang. He reiterates his desire for her to abandon her coroner work after marriage, settling down at home to raise their children.

He also mentions that while "The Autopsy Chronicles" is unfinished, he, as co-author, has already planned the content for the final chapter, which will detail how coroners should collaborate with constables in a county office setting. Upon learning of Yin Yao’s urgent plans for Geng Wushang’s burial, Su Wuming rushes to the funeral, halting the procession to conduct a new autopsy, citing Yin Yao and Suchan’s familial ties making their initial examination invalid.

Despite Yin Yao’s angry protests against the disrespect of opening the coffin, Su Wuming proceeds. In court, Su Wuming reveals the truth. While Geng Wushang did die of strychnine poisoning, which he self-administered, it was a desperate act to prevent Yin Yao from committing more murders. Su Wuming presents a document, found on Geng Wushang’s body, titled "Notice of Expulsion for Zhong Shizai," which notably required Yin Yao’s signature.

He explains that Geng Wushang had fabricated this unusual requirement specifically to obtain a sample of Yin Yao’s handwriting, suspecting his murderous intent. Pei Xijun confirms that the handwriting on this document matches that on the life-borrowing pouch note found earlier.

Su Wuming further reveals that within the unfinished "The Autopsy Chronicles," Geng Wushang had outlined a final chapter titled "Why Coroners Must Not Kill" and left a note explicitly stating, "Yin Yao is not allowed to work as a coroner again." This, Su Wuming asserts, was Geng Wushang’s way of hinting at Yin Yao’s guilt.

He explains that Yin Yao had previously left a tell-tale square of un-bloodied floor at a past murder scene, a result of his "mortician’s ritual" being interrupted. Yin Yao admits his oversight and that he had planned to bury the expulsion document with Geng Wushang to conceal his involvement. He confesses he was hoping to avoid detection and change his distinct handwriting. Yin Yao finally confesses to his crimes.

He recounts a childhood filled with resentment, having been adopted by a grim Geng Wushang and forced into the coroner profession despite his desire to study. His anger intensified when Geng Wushang taught Suchan to read, a privilege he was denied. Though he discovered a talent for autopsies, he felt exploited when Geng Wushang claimed his original "Open-Pit Bone Steaming Method" as his own in "The Autopsy Chronicles," effectively erasing Yin Yao’s contribution.

He further resented Geng Wushang for constantly recommending Zhong Shizai to prestigious positions, praising him as an all-around talent, while denying Yin Yao similar opportunities. Yin Yao admits that his three-year absence from the profession was a deliberate ploy to induce guilt in Geng Wushang, knowing his mentor’s deep concern for the school’s legacy.

He anticipated that Zhong Shizai’s ambition would lead to his downfall, compelling Geng Wushang to eventually invite him back, either to inherit the book or be recognized as a co-author. However, Geng Wushang’s severe illness threatened to prevent the completion of "The Autopsy Chronicles." Inspired by a past "borrowing lifespan" case, Yin Yao sought to extend his mentor’s life just long enough for the book to be finished, so he could leverage it for his own fame and status.

Chicken Fei vehemently condemns Yin Yao’s twisted intentions, asserting that a coroner’s character and integrity are far more crucial than mere talent. Su Wuming declares that Yin Yao will face a more severe punishment than Zhong Shizai and must pay with his life for the three innocent people he murdered. With the case resolved, Su Wuming visits Suchan, encouraging her to complete "The Autopsy Chronicles."

He explains that her father deliberately left the final chapter unfinished for her, as the core concept of "why coroners must not kill" was originally hers. He foresees the book becoming a timeless classic, influencing future generations and becoming an indispensable guide for aspiring coroners. Subsequently, the Emperor issues a decree, canceling the planned Coroners’ Contest.

In recognition of Geng Wushang and Suchan’s significant contribution through "The Autopsy Chronicles," Suchan is granted a permanent position as a professional coroner in the county office and is formally removed from her lowly status. Her descendants are also granted the freedom to choose any profession or pursue scholarly honors. Lu Lingfeng jokingly asks Su Wuming if his previously submitted memorial, which suggested such a contest, inadvertently sparked the series of murders.

Su Wuming clarifies that he credited Lu Lingfeng as co-author in the memorial and reassures him that the Emperor’s frequent review of his submissions signifies his high regard for Lu Lingfeng. Lu Lingfeng reveals he has been summoned to the palace the next day, hoping for good news. Soon after, Natie, the younger brother of the Yenisei Kirghiz Khan, arrives in Chang'an with his polo team.

They quickly establish their prowess, winning their first match against another team, much to the crowd’s excitement. Minister of Ceremonials Pei Mian expresses concern about the Yenisei Kirghiz’s strength, though he dismisses Natie’s "world’s greatest polo player" title as self-proclaimed, confident in the Tang Team’s victory. He instructs officials to ensure the Yenisei Kirghiz guests are treated with the utmost courtesy, regardless of the match outcome, emphasizing the importance of Tang etiquette. He also delegates security for the upcoming final.

The Emperor, eager to lead the Tang Team to victory himself, summons Lu Lingfeng, recalling their successful teamwork in a previous tournament four years prior. He proposes that they both play in the upcoming final against the Yenisei Kirghiz.

However, Pei Mian strongly advises against this, explaining that while the Emperor, as the Prince of Linzi four years ago, could freely participate, his current status as Emperor, coupled with the absence of the Yenisei Kirghiz Khan, would make his participation a violation of both etiquette and protocol. Despite the Emperor’s attempts to find an excuse, such as "sharing joy with the populace," Pei Mian firmly rejects them, calling such justifications "ridiculous." The Emperor reluctantly yields, though visibly disappointed.

His attendant later subtly reminds him of his own past words about upholding imperial protocols, reinforcing Pei Mian’s counsel. Meanwhile, General Lu Tong receives an urgent secret report from his subordinate, Li Zhuang, indicating that Yenisei Kirghiz spies are planning to infiltrate Chang'an to meet with an operative codenamed "Wolf." Concerned for the Emperor’s safety, Lu Tong immediately reports this intelligence, acknowledging its source from the unreliable Ghost Market but stressing the need for caution given Yenisei Kirghiz’s known ambitions.

The Emperor, in turn, shares another confidential message from Yenisei Kirghiz with Lu Tong, emphasizing its secrecy. At the same time, the Grand Princess receives a secret message from Yenisei Kirghiz, revealing their audacious demand for the land of Tingzhou. Enraged, she immediately orders all contact with Yenisei Kirghiz to be severed.

Her advisor attempts to persuade her to maintain contact, arguing that breaking ties would prevent Yenisei Kirghiz from attacking the borders, thus removing a strategic opportunity to transfer Lu Tong out of Chang'an. However, the Grand Princess adamantly refuses to cede any Tang territory, dismissing concerns about captured spies or imperial repercussions, asserting her unassailable position as the State-guarding Grand Princess. She then instructs Chancellor Cui to summon Lu Lingfeng.

Episode 36 Recap

Lu Lingfeng was summoned to Yongzhou Prefecture by Chancellor Cui, who had come unexpectedly from the palace. The Grand Princess met with Lu Lingfeng, expressing her constant worry for the prosperity of the Tang Empire, especially concerning Yenisei Kirghiz, who still coveted Tang borders. She recalled the defeat at the Battle of Wushan and warned Lu Lingfeng that Yenisei Kirghiz was adept at espionage and sowing discord, having planted formidable spies in Chang'an with malicious intent.

To avoid potential complications for her own household, she instructed Lu Lingfeng to execute any captured Yenisei Kirghiz spies immediately without interrogation, as any confessions would likely be fabricated lies meant to divide the Tang. Lu Lingfeng relayed the Princess's message to Su Wuming, admitting he couldn't discern her hidden meaning. Su Wuming clarified that the Princess's proactive warning indicated her household might indeed have connections with Yenisei Kirghiz, but she would never act against the Tang Empire.

Therefore, if a spy were to implicate the Princess's Mansion, Lu Lingfeng should kill them on the spot. He affirmed that Chang'an's safety required robust intelligence gathering, a task managed by various high-ranking figures, including the Emperor and Princess. Unfortunately, Su Wuming, now the Wannian County Sheriff, was tied up with his own cases and couldn't assist directly. However, he provided two crucial leads: the Ghost Market Intel Stall and the Bafang Inn, where Yenisei Kirghiz people frequently stayed.

To infiltrate the Bafang Inn, Lu Lingfeng sought the help of Chicken Fei. Chicken Fei confidently accepted, boasting about his expertise in catching spies. Upon arriving at the Bafang Inn, Chicken Fei found it was also a wonton shop run by Lady Chong the Thirty-Sixth, who was struggling to pay rent due to poor inn business. Chicken Fei proposed opening a branch of his Liuhe Sushan Shop in her empty space.

Lady Chong initially dismissed sushan as mere shaved ice and refused. Unfazed, Chicken Fei insisted it was destiny, pointing out the numerical coincidences in their names and businesses (Bafang, Sixi, Liuhe, and Lady Chong the Thirty-Sixth, where 36 equals 6 times 6).

He warned that refusing might bring her bad luck and offered a deal: discounted sushan for her wonton customers and free sushan for inn guests, even if it meant a loss for him, claiming his motive was simply her beauty. Amused by his charm and persistence, Lady Chong agreed. Chicken Fei then introduced Yang Ji, his assistant, who would be stationed there permanently and would also help Lady Chong with any heavy lifting.

Lu Lingfeng went to the Court of State Ceremonials, where he encountered Li Zhuang, his former comrade from the Imperial Guard. Li Zhuang explained that his new role involved intelligence gathering for the Grand General. He admitted that collecting intel from foreign delegations was difficult, so he relied on secret agents, like a man named Liu Xi, to frequent the Ghost Market Intel Stall. He revealed that he had paid 100,000 coins for a piece of intel.

Lu Lingfeng demanded to meet Liu Xi. Xue Huan soon apprehended Liu Xi, who, upon interrogation, disclosed that the intel came from Sun Zi, the tenant of the Ghost Market Intel Stall. Liu Xi led Lu Lingfeng and Xue Huan to the Intel Stall. Feigning a twisted ankle on the stone steps, Liu Xi instructed them to proceed to the backyard without him. There, they were ambushed by three crossbow-wielding assassins.

One assassin swallowed poison and died upon capture, while Liu Xi was killed during his escape. The remaining two assassins managed to flee. After Xue Huan reported that Sun Zi hadn't been to the Ghost Market that day, Lu Lingfeng and Xue Huan located Sun Zi's residence in Fengyi District. As they arrived, a woman emerged, and when asked about Sun Zi, she silently pointed inside before quickly fleeing in a cloud of purple smoke.

Inside, Lu Lingfeng found Sun Zi gravely wounded with a knife in his chest. Xue Huan gave chase but lost the woman. Chicken Fei arrived and stabilized Sun Zi's condition. While on his way back, Chicken Fei ran into Xiong Qiannian, the Chief Administrator of Yongzhou, who thanked him for his past hospitality in Nanzhou and invited him to share some Nanzhou free-range chicken and local bamboo shoots. Upon regaining consciousness, Sun Zi thanked Lu Lingfeng for saving his life.

He recounted how earlier that morning, a seductive woman had approached him. He brought her home, only for her to transform into a man who furiously demanded to know the source of his Yenisei Kirghiz intel. When Sun Zi refused, citing the "rules of his trade," the man stabbed him before leaving. Sun Zi claimed the intel arrived via carrier pigeon a month and a half after being sent from Yenisei Kirghiz.

Lu Lingfeng, recalling his mentor Master Di's records of pigeons flying much faster, immediately called out Sun Zi's lie. With Xue Huan sternly reminding him of the consequences of lying to an official, and Lu Lingfeng threatening to leave, Sun Zi finally confessed the truth. Half a month prior, a tall, six-fingered man in a black robe and mask had approached him, offering the meeting time and location of the Yenisei Kirghiz spies in Chang'an.

Sun Zi had then resold a portion of this information to Liu Xi for 10,000 coins, planning to profit further from the original intel. Lu Lingfeng promptly ordered a city-wide search for a six-fingered man with a booming voice, over six feet tall, emphasizing not to alert him. Elsewhere, Yu Matong, disguised as a woman, met with a surviving assassin who had failed to kill Lu Lingfeng at the Ghost Market.

The assassin demanded his payment to bury his two fallen brothers, accusing Yu Matong of not revealing Lu Lingfeng's identity as a highly skilled Imperial Guard, which would have deterred them. Yu Matong, after verbally agreeing to pay, swiftly killed the assassin. Meanwhile, Pei Xijun, using details from Sun Zi, meticulously drew the disguised man's true face.

Recognizing the challenge of a city-wide search due to the suspect's mastery of disguise, Lu Lingfeng assigned three men, Jia, Luo, and Liu, to systematically search the districts surrounding Fengyi District with copies of the portrait. Lu Lingfeng then sought out Li Zhuang again. After acknowledging their past camaraderie and the loss of their mutual friends, Lu Lingfeng directly confronted Li Zhuang about the ambush at the Ghost Market.

He explained that only Li Zhuang knew he was investigating the intel source, and Liu Xi seemed to know about the ambush. He highlighted Liu Xi's massive profit from the intel (selling for 100,000 coins what he bought for 10,000) and questioned if Li Zhuang had shared in this illicit gain. Li Zhuang, distraught and unable to prove his innocence after Liu Xi's death, attempted to commit suicide with his sword, proclaiming his innocence was more valuable than his life.

Lu Lingfeng quickly intervened, stopping him and sincerely apologizing for his rash and unfounded suspicions. A relieved Chicken Fei, who had witnessed the scene, declared all sushan in the shop free. Lu Lingfeng then asked Li Zhuang if anyone else knew about his investigation into the intel's source.

Li Zhuang recalled that after their meeting, he had informed Liu Jun, the Magistrate of Yongzhou, about the Yenisei Kirghiz spies, as Liu Jun was the liaison for the Yongzhou Prefecture in their collaborative efforts for the upcoming polo tournament. Li Zhuang confirmed that no one else was aware. With Chu Yingtao occupied in Wannian County, Pei Xijun volunteered to covertly follow Liu Jun.

Lu Lingfeng reluctantly agreed, cautioning her to maintain a distance, merely observe his movements, and return before dusk. Pei Xijun diligently tracked Liu Jun to a fish market, where she witnessed him meeting Yu Matong. Liu Jun berated Yu Matong for her failed attempt on Lu Lingfeng's life, expressing fear that Lu Lingfeng's ongoing investigation would jeopardize his newly appointed position as Magistrate.

Yu Matong, unfazed, reminded Liu Jun that they were now both irrevocably committed to their path and could not back out. She then grew suspicious, scanning their surroundings and quickly spotting Pei Xijun, whom she promptly captured. Concurrently, the Emperor tasked You Tiancai with designing an imperial polo ball that would symbolize the prosperity of the Tang Empire for the upcoming international tournament finals.

Xiong Qiannian subtly suggested to You Tiancai that the Emperor's demanding task was a consequence of Chief Minister Pei Mian's earlier advice against the Emperor participating in the polo match. Pei Mian overheard this and fiercely refuted Xiong Qiannian's gossip, leading to a heated argument. Pei Mian chastised You Tiancai for a lack of innovative design beyond a scented ball, reminding him that the polo ball was meant to represent the Tang's glory, not just the Emperor's personal preferences.

He also severely reprimanded Xiong Qiannian for sowing discord between the Emperor and his officials within the palace. Both You Tiancai and Xiong Qiannian hastily apologized, with You Tiancai promising to create a polo ball that would satisfy the Emperor.

Episode 37 Recap

Yu Matong held Pei Xijun captive, suspending her over a pool of ferocious piranhas, threatening to feed her to them if she didn't reveal her source of information. Pei Xijun, maintaining her composure, claimed that Lu Lingfeng, the Yongzhou Judicial Official, was her husband and possessed the means to uncover any lead. Upon hearing this, Yu Matong considered his options.

Since the Princess had severed ties with Yenisei Kirghiz, he saw an opportunity to leverage Pei Xijun to repair relations with the Princess's Mansion. That night, the Princess received a message via carrier pigeon, warning her of Pei Xijun's danger and stating that if she wished for Pei Xijun to live, the Princess must grant Yenisei Kirghiz's demands. She immediately dispatched a servant to Yongzhou Prefecture, strictly instructing that only Lu Lingfeng was permitted to read the note.

Meanwhile, Chu Yingtao returned to the sushan shop with Su Wuming, where everyone was concerned about Pei Xijun's prolonged absence. Moments later, Lu Lingfeng received the urgent note. He quickly led his men to the Liu Mansion, only to be informed by a servant that Liu Jun was likely either at the Persian House or the Pingkang District. The group split into two to search.

Lu Lingfeng headed to the Persian House, where he detected an unusual nuance in the proprietress's words. Despite her denial, Lu Lingfeng realized she was repeating someone else's phrase, leading him to discover Liu Jun hidden in a private room. Initially, Liu Jun was arrogant, but after Xue Huan subdued him with a beating, he confessed to secretly meeting Yu Matong and revealed that Pei Xijun was being held at the Dayu Fish Market.

Having received no communication or action from the Princess's Mansion, Yu Matong concluded that Pei Xijun was a fraud. He hastily ordered his accomplices to pack their valuables and prepare for an immediate retreat back to Yenisei Kirghiz. Before leaving, Yu Matong activated a mechanism, intending to drop Pei Xijun into the piranha-filled pool. Fortunately, Lu Lingfeng and Xue Huan arrived just in time to rescue her.

However, in his haste and anger, Lu Lingfeng's actions were too forceful, resulting in Yu Matong and his cohorts being killed on the spot. Following the incident, Liu Jun was brought before Xiong Qiannian, who, enraged by Liu Jun's disgraceful conduct, questioned his reasons for colluding with the enemy and betraying the nation.

Liu Jun tearfully explained that after gaining his position, he became addicted to lavish entertainment, frequently spending excessive amounts at places like the Persian House and Pingkang District. He met Yu Matong, who generously covered his expenses. This continued until Yu Matong presented him with a detailed ledger of all his debts, blackmailing him into becoming an agent.

Liu Jun admitted to leaking classified court information entrusted to Yongzhou Prefecture to them, and also revealing Lu Lingfeng's ongoing investigation into Yenisei Kirghiz spies and the Ghost Market intel stall. Xiong Qiannian warned Liu Jun that such treasonous acts would lead to his execution by the court. Su Wuming then assisted Lu Lingfeng in reviewing the case.

According to information obtained from Sun Zi, the Yenisei Kirghiz spies were scheduled to meet a female contact at Dayan Pagoda in Jinchang District. The rendezvous was set for three days from when Sun Zi first obtained the intelligence, which was the following day. To intercept them, Su Wuming decided to accompany Lu Lingfeng to set up an ambush at Dayan Pagoda. Soon after, Pei Mian visited Pei's Mansion and found Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming there.

Lu Lingfeng claimed to have been engaged to Pei Xijun for a long time, but Pei Mian quickly deduced it was a private arrangement unknown to Pei Xijun's father. Su Wuming interjected, elaborating on Lu Lingfeng's heroic deed two years prior when he saved Pei Xijun's life during the Black Tea Case, and how Pei Xijun's father, Vice Minister Pei, had since formally entrusted his daughter to Lu Lingfeng before leaving Chang'an.

Su Wuming also swore on the name of his mentor, Di Renjie, that he spoke the truth, all to assure Pei Mian that their union was based on genuine affection and not on Lu Lingfeng's association with the Princess. Impressed by Su Wuming's persuasive words, Pei Mian called for Pei Xijun. Seeing that she was unharmed, though a little shaken, he then requested her help in designing a new polo ball that would symbolize the Tang Empire's prosperity.

Unable to refuse, Pei Xijun agreed. Gathered together, each person shared their vision of a prosperous era. Pei Xijun longed for a peaceful life, teaching children calligraphy and painting while awaiting her beloved's return from the county office. Fei Jishi wished for a wise and just emperor, with citizens living in peace and prosperity, allowing him to enjoy wine daily. Xue Huan vowed to defend the Tang Empire's borders, ensuring no foreign enemies dared to trespass.

Chu Yingtao believed a golden age should embrace the chivalry of the martial world, where everyone could find their own place and flourish. Lu Lingfeng advocated for a balance of civil governance and military strength, where both poetry and swords could thrive, stressing that the empire's longevity depended on its military reach to deter ambitious nations.

Su Wuming, after recounting various past emperors and their reigns, asserted that a truly prosperous era, one even more clear, strong, and thriving than the likes of Emperors Wen and Jing or Emperor Xuan, had yet to arrive. Three days later, Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming meticulously positioned their lookouts around Dayan Pagoda, preparing for the spy rendezvous. Meanwhile, Juren Candidate Tian routinely visited the Bafang Inn, ostensibly to see Lady Chong the Thirty-Sixth.

Unbeknownst to most, two Yenisei Kirghiz spies, Hu Mei'er and Hu Da, disguised as a father and daughter, checked into the inn, preparing to meet their contact, Canglang. Yang Ji, delivering complimentary sushan from the Liuhe Sushan Shop to the inn guests, discreetly observed Hu Mei'er. He noticed an unusual scar behind her ear, sparking immediate suspicion. Pei Xijun, having synthesized everyone's diverse ideas, completed her design, which Pei Mian personally presented to the Emperor.

The Emperor was delighted with the design—a golden dragon representing the Tang Empire, surrounded by five grains symbolizing abundant harvests and contented people. He decreed that the polo ball be crafted from premium sandalwood and wrapped with the precious Seven-Colored Beast Hides, which emitted a unique seven-colored radiance under sunlight, traditionally reserved for imperial use. At Dayan Pagoda, Xiong Qiannian unexpectedly arrived, insisting on joining Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming in capturing the spies. However, at the appointed time, as Hu Mei'er appeared in the market disguised as a man, Xiong Qiannian prematurely shouted to apprehend suspicious individuals, inadvertently alerting her to their presence.

Episode 38 Recap

Xiong Qiannian's premature and reckless actions to apprehend what he believed were spies at Dayan Pagoda led to the failure of the planned ambush. Lu Lingfeng, frustrated by Xiong's incompetence, expressed his anger and even suggested that Xiong might have deliberately tipped off the spies. Su Wuming advised Lu Lingfeng to speak cautiously, but Lu Lingfeng, confident in his judgment, declared he would resign as constable if those two were indeed spies.

Su Wuming then went to investigate the arrested individuals, recognizing one as You Tiancai, the Director of the Tribute Office. Xiong Qiannian continued to accuse You Tiancai of being a Yenisei Kirghiz spy. You Tiancai, however, insisted he was innocent, explaining that he was merely scalping tickets to the upcoming polo finals to earn money for a larger house, as his official salary was insufficient.

The other person involved confirmed he was simply trying to buy tickets for his wife to see the Grand Princess. Realizing that You Tiancai was not the actual target, Su Wuming ordered Xiong Qiannian to remove them quickly to avoid alerting the real spies. Instead of simply discreetly removing You Tiancai, Xiong Qiannian provocatively brought him to Pei Mian at the Court of State Ceremonials. Pei Mian, seeing this as a deliberate attempt to humiliate him, was enraged.

He clarified that You Tiancai, as an official who committed a serious crime, should be sent to the Censorate. Emphasizing the importance and grandeur of the upcoming imperial polo tournament, Pei Mian declared that You Tiancai was not to be associated with it and immediately ordered his expulsion from the Court of State Ceremonials, ignoring You Tiancai's pleas for mercy.

Throughout this, Pei Mian was also meticulously overseeing the production of the precious imperial polo balls, stressing precision and the creation of a backup. Following the initial failed meeting, Hu Meier refused her companion's suggestion to leave Chang'an, asserting her unwavering loyalty to the Khan and her determination to complete her mission. Meanwhile, Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming revisited Sun Zi for more information.

After some pressure, Sun Zi revealed the Yenisei Kirghiz spies' backup plan: if the Dayan Pagoda meeting failed, they would meet the "Four Heavenly Kings" at 4 AM the next day in the quietest place in Chang'an. Sun Zi mentioned his confusion about this, as the contact was already wearing a Heavenly King mask, specifically the Guardian of the East, which he knew was from a specific mask shop in the Ghost Market. Su Wuming analyzed the cryptic clue.

He concluded that despite his initial thoughts, Dayan Pagoda, while generally busy, would be the quietest area at 4 AM as pilgrims would not yet be permitted entry. Believing the meeting location remained the same, Lu Lingfeng, accompanied by Xue Huan, went to monitor Dayan Pagoda. Su Wuming proceeded to the mask shop in the Ghost Market. The shop owner, Yan Ruyu, recalled selling four Heavenly King masks to a large, six-fingered man a few days prior.

The man had left an old, worn Guardian of the East mask that appeared ancient and not of Chang'an origin. Su Wuming purchased this old mask. Later, Su Wuming felt he had missed a critical detail. When confronted by his three constables, who questioned Dayan Pagoda's suitability as the "quietest place," Su Wuming had an epiphany: Leyouyuan's Leyou Temple, though dilapidated and enshrining both Han emperors and the Four Heavenly Kings, would be truly quiet at dawn.

He immediately led his team there. Indeed, Hu Meier and her companion, Hu Da, were meeting "the Wolf" at the temple, where Hu Meier handed over a black copper tube. However, Hu Meier quickly realized it was a trap, noting "the Wolf's" redundant final words and his ridiculous wolf-head mask. As they turned to flee, they encountered Chu Yingtao, who was attempting to seize the copper tube. In the ensuing fight, Chu Yingtao killed Hu Da.

Hu Meier, surrounded by the constables, fiercely declared that Yenisei Kirghiz warriors would die rather than surrender. Despite Su Wuming's attempts to persuade her to yield, she committed suicide. Concurrently, "the Wolf" handed the copper tube to another masked figure, receiving silver ingots in exchange, only to be immediately assassinated by the same masked individual. Lu Lingfeng and Xue Huan, who had waited in vain at Dayan Pagoda, returned to learn of the night's events.

Lu Lingfeng then told Su Wuming that his all-night vigil was not wasted; he had identified a repeatedly appearing individual of special status who could influence Chang'an's safety. Both realized they were thinking of Xiong Qiannian, and Lu Lingfeng decided a thorough investigation into him was necessary. Still remorseful for his miscalculations, Su Wuming received an additional piece of information from Chu Yingtao regarding Hu Meier's ear scars, which Yang Ji had earlier noted.

Su Wuming immediately recognized the significance and, after examining Hu Meier's body, confirmed that the scars were not a result of suffering or punishment, but rather "face mutilation and ear cutting," a ritualistic mourning practice of Yenisei Kirghiz nobility. Realizing the importance of the old mask, he brought Chu Yingtao to Feng Tai in the Ghost Market, hoping to ascertain its origin. Feng Tai could only narrow its origin to Xunzhou or Nanzhou and required more time for research.

Back at the sushan shop, Su Wuming sought Chicken Fei's expertise with the mask. Chicken Fei quickly discovered the molted skin of a Hundred Poisons Bug inside, along with the scent of Milong Mushroom. He definitively concluded that the mask was from Nanzhou, as the bug is unique to that region, implying its owner had long resided there.

Under the guise of delivering sushan ingredients to the Bafang Inn's branch, Su Wuming went undercover, aware that the inn had been a known Yenisei Kirghiz stronghold for years, a fact his mentor Di Renjie had strategically kept under wraps for a "long game." Yang Ji reported to Su Wuming about Juren Candidate Tian, who persistently frequented the inn, hopelessly enamored with Lady Chong the Thirty-Sixth.

Yang Ji noted that despite Lady Chong lending him money for rent, she maintained an emotional distance. Su Wuming, disguised as a fortune teller, approached Juren Candidate Tian, but Tian, having seen Su Wuming earlier and recognizing his disguise, immediately discerned his true purpose. Su Wuming and Juren Candidate Tian engaged in a candid conversation. Tian poured out his heart, recounting his profound love for Lady Chong the Thirty-Sixth and her sudden coldness.

Their once close relationship fractured when Tian, upon seeing knife scars on her ear, reacted with emotional outrage, promising vengeance against the perpetrator. Lady Chong had responded with a mood-killing dismissal and subsequently remained distant, though she continued to provide him financial assistance, knowing his poverty. Tian speculated that her scars might indicate a foreign background, which she perhaps feared would hinder their union.

Su Wuming, recognizing the depth of Tian's affection and the potential relevance of Lady Chong's scars, cautioned Tian to act as if they had never spoken. However, he urged Tian to immediately report to the Liuhe Sushan Shop if he observed any suspicious events or dangers concerning Lady Chong, framing it as a way to protect her.

To emphasize the urgency, Su Wuming revealed that the woman who had stayed at the inn the previous night (Hu Meier) was now dead and also bore similar ear scars. Meanwhile, the meticulously crafted seven-colored imperial polo balls were completed. Pei Mian summoned Li Zhuang, entrusting him with the paramount task of safeguarding these precious items, a duty Li Zhuang solemnly accepted. Simultaneously, Lu Lingfeng, accompanied by Lu Tong, was summoned to the palace for an audience with the Emperor.

Lu Lingfeng truthfully reported that while the two Yenisei Kirghiz spies had been dealt with, "the Wolf," who had received their intelligence, remained at large. The Emperor, relaying the Retired Emperor's concerns about his personal safety at the tournament, asked if Lu Lingfeng could guarantee the elimination of the threat within the remaining two days. Lu Lingfeng honestly admitted he could not. Acknowledging Lu Lingfeng's best efforts, the Emperor resigned himself to observe the situation as it unfolded.

Episode 39 Recap

As the National Polo Tournament drew near, the Emperor expressed his intention to personally lead the Tang Team against the Yenisei Kirghiz. However, Chief Minister Pei vehemently opposed this decision, engaging in a heated debate with other officials. He argued that diplomatic matters concerned the dignity of the empire and that the Emperor's presence would boost morale, citing the valor of Emperor Taizong.

When an official tried to dismiss his concerns, Chief Minister Pei silenced him, threatening to bash his own head against a pillar and accuse the Emperor of cowardice before Emperor Taizong and Emperor Gaozu if he did not attend. Moved by Chief Minister Pei’s impassioned plea, the Emperor relented and agreed to attend the tournament in person. Meanwhile, the Grand Princess, who had initially planned to attend the event, reconsidered after a late-night meeting with Chancellor Cui.

While she admired Chief Minister Pei’s spirit, Chancellor Cui suggested that with Yenisei Kirghiz spies still at large, dangers persisted. He proposed that the Emperor should face these risks alone, creating an opportunity for the Grand Princess to save the state and ascend the throne if anything unfortunate were to occur. Convinced by this reasoning, the Grand Princess canceled her attendance, secretly hoping that the Yenisei Kirghiz plot would indeed unfold.

Later that night, Lady Chong the Thirty-Sixth went alone to a dilapidated house after receiving a secret message. There, she found Nasha waiting. She immediately recognized him as the Yenisei Kirghiz Khan, not his brother Natie, who she knew was at the border with 100,000 cavalry. Lady Chong had sacrificed fourteen years of her life, serving as a spy in Chang'an to help Nasha achieve his ambitions when he was just an ordinary general.

She reminded him of his promise to marry her. Nasha, now the Khan, explained that he had married the former Khan's daughter to secure his position and that his Khatun's intense jealousy meant he could not bring Lady Chong back without risking the stability of his tribe. Instead, he presented her with a "sacred medicine," instructing her to commit suicide after completing her mission, promising a painless reincarnation and a glorious cenotaph.

Lady Chong, realizing the depth of his betrayal, quietly reflected on a simpler life she once wished for, acknowledging that ambition had transformed her beloved general into the ruthless Khan he was now.

Nasha confirmed her preparations were complete and ordered her to proceed with the plan to hide twenty-eight barrels of tung oil under the Qu River polo field stands, intending to use a specially designed polo ball containing sulfur and nitre to trigger an explosion, annihilating the Tang court. The following day, Yang Ji reported to Su Wuming that dozens of barrels of pine oil had been transported from a secret underground room at Bafang Inn, suggesting a fire attack.

Simultaneously, Lady Chong, after ingesting the poison, endured excruciating pain and sought out Tian Juren. Collapsing into his arms, she expressed her loneliness and fear of dying. Tian Juren, unwavering in his love, dismissed her worries about being bad luck, cherishing their moments together. He vowed to save her, rushing her to the sushan shop where Chicken Fei managed to save her life that night.

Upon recovering, Lady Chong, deeply grateful for her rescue and understanding true affection, revealed the entire Yenisei Kirghiz plot. Separately, Li Zhuang urgently sought out Lu Lingfeng. He recounted how, despite his vigilance, he had inexplicably fallen into a deep sleep while guarding the Imperial Polo Balls. Upon waking, he noticed a subtle but definite increase in the weight of one of the balls.

He emphasized that Chief Minister Pei must not know, given the balls’ irreplaceable materials and the impending finals. Li Zhuang also informed Lu Lingfeng that Chief Minister Pei and Chief Administrator Xiong were the only ones who had visited the room during his watch. Lu Lingfeng immediately grasped the implications of this discovery. On the day of the tournament, the Grand Princess made an unexpected appearance at the polo field, much to the Emperor's delight.

She confirmed her presence to watch, recalling his past polo victory. The Emperor, buoyed by her support, declared his intention to personally lead the Tang Team, affirming polo's role in strengthening the body and fostering international friendship while displaying Tang's might. Chief Minister Pei attempted to object again, but the Grand Princess publicly endorsed the Emperor's decision, emphasizing that the match was about displaying national power for all to see, effectively silencing Chief Minister Pei.

Lu Tong offered to accompany the Emperor on the field, but the Emperor graciously declined due to Lu Tong's age and past injuries, instead choosing Lu Lingfeng, referencing his role in the Tang Team's championship victory four years prior. Earlier, Lu Lingfeng had secretly informed the Emperor that the Yenisei Kirghiz envoy, "Natie," was none other than Nasha, the Khan himself.

This revelation strengthened the Emperor's resolve to play, intending to defeat them on the field as a warning to the distant Yenisei Kirghiz army. Lu Lingfeng had also assured the Emperor that the Grand Princess had changed her mind and would stand with him against foreign enemies, thus removing the last obstacle to his participation. The night before the finals, Lu Lingfeng and Su Wuming had visited the Grand Princess.

Su Wuming explained how he had uncovered her ownership of two Seven-Colored Beast Hides, gifted by Empress Wu Zetian, from the Court of the Imperial Treasury records. He requested these hides, not merely to borrow, for a replacement polo ball. Though initially hesitant, planning to gift them to her son for his wedding, the Grand Princess, realizing that national security outweighed personal matters, agreed.

Su Wuming assured her that Xijun had designed the ball, and Feng Tai, the Ghost Market Magistrate and an eccentric genius with a recent obsession for embroidery, would craft it. Lu Lingfeng explained that arresting the spies prematurely might disrupt the tournament and lead to even larger conspiracies, making the finals the optimal time to expose the entire plot. The Grand Princess, expressing her desire to witness her son annihilate the treacherous Yenisei Kirghiz, agreed to help.

During the opening ceremony, the Grand Princess, adhering to protocol, prepared to serve the ball. As she did, she secretly swapped the original Imperial Polo Ball with the newly crafted one, concealing the original in her sleeve. She silently affirmed that the safety of Tang superseded any personal disputes and that the ball was secure. The match commenced, with the Yenisei Kirghiz Team scoring the first goal. However, Lu Lingfeng swiftly retaliated with a masterful shot, evening the score. The Emperor, overjoyed, rode alongside Lu Lingfeng, galloping past the cheering spectators.

Episode 40 (Ending) Recap

Nasha galloped fiercely, snatching the polo ball and striking the Dragon Pearl mechanism. However, the bronze dragon head remained silent, and the stands were unharmed. The Emperor, seated on his horse, declared that in polo, a goal is scored by getting the ball into the net. Nasha's expression changed, realizing the polo ball must have been swapped, and decided he needed to find another opportunity to switch it.

Immediately after, Lu Lingfeng charged forward, scoring another point with a masterful shot, bringing the score to two-to-one. Nasha then led his Yenisei Kirghiz riders in a frantic scramble, during which the ball was accidentally hit over the wall and fell into the Qu River. Amidst the crowd's uproar, the Emperor calmly ordered a spare ball. The Grand Princess, holding the new ball, stood on a high platform. With a graceful sweep of her sleeve, she performed another switch.

When Nasha seized the ball and struck the Dragon Pearl again, there was still no reaction, causing him to blanch in shock. The Emperor, seeing this, ceased his pretense. He directly confronted Nasha, asking if he intended for the Dragon Pearl to ignite, blowing up the stands and creating a bloodbath targeting the Tang imperial family, and questioned if Nasha's accomplices were present. Nasha feigned ignorance, but Lu Lingfeng openly exposed Nasha's conspiracy, ordering him to dismount and surrender.

When Nasha angrily retorted that Lu Lingfeng dared not use the Khan's name so casually, Lu Lingfeng revealed that they knew Nasha was impersonating someone named Natie, and they had recognized him from the Battle of Wushan Gorge, where Nasha boasted of killing the Tang standard-bearer, leading to his rise as general and then Khan.

Lu Lingfeng explained that Nasha had approached Xiong Qiannian, the masked chief official of Chang'an, offering him the title of King of Guandong to incite him to assassinate the Emperor and the Grand Princess, thereby clearing the way for the Yenisei Kirghiz cavalry to invade Chang'an. Nasha had threatened to expose Xiong Qiannian as a spy if he did not cooperate. Nasha's plan involved Xiong Qiannian using slumbering incense to incapacitate officials and tamper with the polo balls.

However, Lu Lingfeng revealed that Su Wuming had already mitigated the threat. Su Wuming's team discovered that the modified polo balls were filled with sulfur and saltpeter, and the golden embroidery contained highly flammable materials. The Dragon Pearl on the stands, intended to ignite the ball, had been reforged with solid metal by Feng Tai, the Ghost Market Magistrate, and would not catch fire—though it was a pity about the colorful beast hides the Princess had provided for the decoration.

The Emperor then asked Nasha why he sought to destroy Chang'an. Nasha declared that the Tang Empire's prosperity would prevent the Yenisei Kirghiz from dominating the world. Meanwhile, Lady Chong the Thirty-Sixth, who had been poisoned by Nasha, woke up in Pei Xijun's care, mistaking her for Meng Po, the mythological figure who serves soup to the dead.

Pei Xijun clarified her identity and explained that Yenisei Kirghiz poison was no match for Tang doctors, crediting Sheriff Su for foreseeing the danger and the devoted scholar, Tian Jurun, for running to bring her to safety. Realizing she had been betrayed and recognizing the Tang's kindness, Lady Chong revealed Nasha's entire conspiracy, including the 28 barrels of pine oil hidden under the stands, which had been discovered thanks to her information.

Enraged by the failure of his plot and the exposure of his identity, Nasha drew his sword and lunged at the Emperor. Lu Lingfeng swiftly intervened, protecting the Emperor, and after a brief but intense skirmish, Nasha was defeated. Seeing his conspiracy completely unraveled, Xiong Qiannian made a desperate move, drawing a dagger and attempting to stab the Grand Princess.

However, Li Zhuang and Chu Yingtao, who were present to protect the Princess under Su Wuming’s orders, along with Lu Tong and Pei Mian, quickly apprehended him. The crowd erupted in shouts for Nasha's execution, but the Emperor declared that the finals were not yet over. He challenged Nasha to continue the match, asking if he still had the courage to compete, emphasizing that the rulers of the Tang Empire were "emperors on horseback" and feared no foreign power.

Spurred by the Emperor's words, Nasha agreed to resume the match, rallying his Yenisei Kirghiz warriors to win back their honor on the field. Meanwhile, the Grand Princess questioned Xiong Qiannian about his motives for trying to assassinate her. He confessed his hatred for her mother, Empress Wu Zetian, whom he blamed for the Tang army's devastating defeat at the Battle of Wushan Gorge, where her trusted followers interfered with military operations, leading to widespread casualties.

Su Wuming then presented the full case against Xiong Qiannian. He explained that their suspicion grew from Xiong Qiannian's attempts to extract information from Fei Ji, his suspicious activities at Dayan Pagoda, and the worn-out Heavenly King mask he left at the Ghost Market. Su Wuming further revealed that a search of Xiong Qiannian's residence, conducted with imperial permission, uncovered the complete set of Four Heavenly King masks and the tools he used to impersonate the six-fingered assassin.

Lu Lingfeng produced Xiong Qiannian's official file from the Ministry of War, revealing his undeclared past service in the Heyuan Army under Heichi Changzhi, fighting against the Yenisei Kirghiz. Xiong Qiannian then confessed his past: during the Battle of Wushan Gorge, his vanguard was ambushed and his remaining hundred men were surrounded. To save their lives from the Yenisei Kirghiz, who were known for killing captives, he was forced to become a spy.

They fabricated a story about the Four Heavenly Kings appearing to save them, swearing a blood oath to keep it secret. This secret had tormented him for twenty years. He expressed deep regret over returning to Chang'an, where the Yenisei Kirghiz had found and blackmailed him. He also admitted to intentionally leaking information to the Ghost Market, hoping capable individuals like Su Wuming and Lu Lingfeng would thwart the plot.

Overcome with remorse, he requested to be buried with the last remaining Heavenly King mask. Recognizing his Buddhist faith, the Grand Princess granted his final wish, and he was led away. The polo match was fiercely contested, reaching a five-to-five tie with little time remaining. In the final moments, Lu Lingfeng seized an opportunity, delivering a brilliant shot that secured a six-to-five victory for the Tang Team.

The Tang crowd erupted in cheers, but the Yenisei Kirghiz envoys vehemently protested, claiming the result was unfair. To demonstrate the Tang Empire's magnanimity, the Emperor declared the match had been disrupted and he was not fully satisfied. He proposed an extraordinary new match: a "World Team" composed of one expert player each from Yenisei Kirghiz, Tulo, and Kang Kingdom, led by himself, would face Lu Lingfeng's Tang Team again. Despite Pei Mian's initial hesitation, the Emperor's decision was firm.

He personally invited Nasha to join his World Team, and Nasha, regaining his competitive spirit, accepted. The Emperor then challenged Lu Lingfeng to play with his full strength, emphasizing that the polo field, in this context, was also a battlefield. The second match began, with the Tang Team scoring first, quickly followed by the World Team, eventually bringing the score to a two-to-two tie. The intense competition enthralled the spectators.

In the end, the World Team, led by the Emperor, emerged victorious with a score of five-to-four. This gesture not only saved face for the foreign nations but also won over Nasha and his entourage, who now praised the Emperor as "Heavenly Khan reborn" for his broad-mindedness. Witnessing the Emperor's triumphant display, the Grand Princess remarked to her aide that the tournament had become a platform for the Emperor to win hearts.

She concluded that some unavoidable conflicts are best confronted sooner, deciding to take proactive measures rather than passively await her opportunity to claim the imperial throne. Following Xiong Qiannian's downfall, the Emperor appointed Pei Mian as the Chief Administrator of Yongzhou Prefecture, commending his talent and allowing him to concurrently serve as Minister of Ceremonials.

Regarding Nasha's punishment, the Emperor decreed it should be handled according to Tang law, considering Nasha's remorse, as he, having recently ascended the throne, preferred peace. Meanwhile, Yang Xun, a court official, continued to insinuate disloyalty from the Grand Princess. The Emperor, however, furiously dismissed his claims, pointing out that his aunt had willingly stood by his side during the recent danger and blamed such advisors for stirring discord between them. Tian Jurun and Lady Chong the Thirty-Sixth were married.

Tian Jurun presented her with a donkey, explaining it would help her with daily chores like making and selling tofu. He added that if she ever missed her homeland, she could ride it to Leyouyuan, with him leading it to ensure her safety. Lady Chong, still worried about potential arrest, was reassured by Tian Jurun, who relayed that Su Wuming had deemed her actions a meritorious service, offsetting her past involvement in Nasha's plot.

Having lived in Chang'an for fourteen years, she was now recognized as a Chang'an resident and could register for Tang citizenship. Lady Chong worried her past might impede Tian Jurun's scholarly path to officialdom, but he lovingly dismissed her concerns, stating that learning was not solely for office and some things were more important.

He expressed his desire for them to live a simple life, farming and weaving, with him composing poems for her daily, a sentiment that deeply moved her. At a celebratory banquet, Su Wuming singled out Pei Xijun, praising her "Prosperous Polo, Golden Dragon with Five Grains" design for the polo ball.

He explained that its symbolism—the nation depending on its people, and the people being the foundation of the nation—was so ingenious that it would undoubtedly influence Chinese culture for generations. Lu Lingfeng then raised a toast to Pei Xijun, proclaiming that meeting her in this life was his greatest fortune. Pei Xijun, in turn, declared that meeting Lu Lingfeng was the greatest joy of her life.

The next day, Su Wuming and Lu Lingfeng stood atop a tall building, gazing at Chang'an. Reflecting on their journey, Lu Lingfeng reiterated Su Wuming's earlier words that Chang'an, where danger and poetry coexist, truly belongs to its people. He then asked Su Wuming whose Tang Empire it was.

Su Wuming declared it was "the Tang Empire's Tang Empire," further clarifying that just as Lu Lingfeng was his own person, and Su Wuming his own, so too was the Tang Empire its own entity. Su Wuming observed that Zhuque Avenue divided Chang'an into Chang'an County and Wannian County, noting the profound meaning of their names: "Eternal Peace" and "Ten Thousand Years." They concluded that Chang'an belonged to its people, to the Tang Empire, and ultimately, to the entire world, embodying a prosperous Tang that could embrace all rivers.