Who Rules The World Recap, Plot, Synopsis

> Who Rules The World

Who Rules The World Synopsis

Feng Lanxi, who has a paragon of beauty and a very deep mind, it seems that everyone is in his calculations, is called “black fox” by Bai Fengxi.

With the name of “benevolent king”, Feng Lanxi is very popular among the people.

Determined to win the world, Feng Lanxi marries Feng Xiyun (Bai Fengxi).

Feng Lanxi has cultivated the most beautiful flower “Lanyin Biyue” for eight years just for Feng Xiyun.

Ten years together, there is still a gap between Feng Lanxi and Feng Xiyun.

In the battle of Dongdan, Feng Xiyun is badly injured.

Feng Lanxi realizes his real feeling, not hesitating to use all his energy to launch “Xuelao Tianshan” to save Feng Xiyun, and makes his own face aged 30 years.

After being cured by Jiu Wei, he restores as before.

Feng Lanxi gives up the final struggle for supremacy and the half of the country and retires with Feng Xiyun.

Who Rules The World 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

The world was divided into seven factions, with the Dadong Imperial Family holding supreme authority, maintaining balance among the Six States through the Empyrean Token. One hundred years after Emperor Weilie founded the Dadong Empire, news of the Empyrean Token's disappearance spread, stirring unrest. Crown Prince Jing Yan hastily sought an audience with Emperor Chunxi, who then issued a decree ordering all six State lords to launch a full-scale search for the token.

Meanwhile, within the martial world, Hei Fengxi, the renowned head of Fountain Abode, discreetly gathered intelligence regarding the token's loss and initiated an investigation into the underlying reasons. He believed the Imperial Family's power was waning, fostering rebellious ambitions among the Six States, with Yongzhou showing the greatest covetousness. Despite extensive searches by various forces, the token remained elusive for a month until it fell into the hands of Yan Yingzhou, one of Jizhou’s four great generals, known as Liefeng.

Upon hearing this, Huang Chao, the Heir Apparent of Jizhou, was delighted and immediately dispatched General Xiao Xuekong to support Yan Yingzhou in Beizhou, where he was being pursued by other States. Unbeknownst to them, Yan Yingzhou was already being hunted on Mount Xuan. Though a formidable warrior, he was eventually overwhelmed by his attackers.

Just as he was in grave danger, Bai Fengxi of the Tianshuang Sect intervened, rescuing him and bringing him to a mountain cave on Mount Xuan’s north peak. Bai Fengxi chose to save Yan Yingzhou due to his noble character. Three years prior, he had defied punishment from the Lord of Jizhou and led his army to protect the commoners of Changfeng City, trapping the Shangzhou army at Liefeng Pass. This act of selflessness earned him Bai Fengxi’s admiration.

Yan Yingzhou, sensing his impending demise, implored Bai Fengxi to deliver the Empyrean Token to Jizhou, but she declined, stating her lazy nature. However, she offered to seek medicine for him from the Han family, providing him with a temporary remedy to prolong his life for a day. Hei Fengxi, learning of Bai Fengxi's journey to the Han family, correctly surmised her purpose was to obtain medicine for Yan Yingzhou.

Coincidentally, he had received an invitation to Han Xuanling’s 60th birthday celebration and decided to attend, knowing it would lead him to Bai Fengxi and potentially the token. The Han family, though a prominent martial arts household, was renowned for its ancestral healing remedies like Zifu Powder for external injuries and the Buddha Pill, a potent antidote. As martial artists often faced injury and poisoning, the Han family’s medicines were highly coveted.

However, the Han family closely guarded their secret formulations, rarely sharing them, which earned them respect despite their modest martial prowess. During Han Xuanling’s lively birthday banquet, Bai Fengxi arrived dramatically on the rooftop, boldly demanding Zifu Powder and a Buddha Pill. Han Xuanling, exasperated by her past habit of "taking" his medicines, angrily ordered her to leave. When some guests, including Wei An, attempted to intervene, Bai Fengxi effortlessly defeated them, causing a commotion.

Just then, Hei Fengxi arrived, diffusing the tension. Han Xuanling implored him to "discipline" Bai Fengxi and demand an apology, even asking for her "thieving hands" as restitution for past thefts. Hei Fengxi, sighing at Bai Fengxi's troublesome nature, instead offered to compensate Han Xuanling for the stolen medicines and publicly apologized on Bai Fengxi's behalf for her playful, albeit disruptive, behavior. He then invited all the assembled heroes to an adjacent courtyard for wine, effectively diverting their attention.

With the situation resolved, Han Xuanling reluctantly provided Bai Fengxi with the requested medicines. Upon returning to the cave, Bai Fengxi discovered Yan Yingzhou had left. At the Han family banquet, Hei Fengxi’s servants, Chuanyu and Zhong Li, observed his actions and speculated that he harbored feelings for Bai Fengxi.

Hei Fengxi, aware of Yan Yingzhou's disappearance, surmised that he had left to avoid burdening Bai Fengxi, but predicted that her meddlesome nature would lead her to follow, foreshadowing a fierce battle that night. True to his prediction, Bai Fengxi located Yan Yingzhou in a dense forest and administered the Buddha Pill, temporarily suppressing his poison. However, their respite was short-lived as attackers, far more skilled than those from earlier, descended upon them.

Ten black-clad figures engaged them, with four focusing on Yan Yingzhou and six on Bai Fengxi. Fighting valiantly side-by-side, they struggled against the overwhelming numbers. During the intense fight, the Empyrean Token fell from Yan Yingzhou’s pouch. Bai Fengxi instinctively caught it, only to be poisoned by the token itself.

Yan Yingzhou quickly sealed Bai Fengxi’s acupoints and gave her his remaining four Buddha Pills, explaining they would delay, but not cure, the poison, advising her to seek more from the Han family for a complete recovery. To ensure her survival, Yan Yingzhou decided to draw the attackers away, first entrusting his blade to her and asking her to deliver it to Prince Huang Chao, promising to repay her kindness in his next life.

With her acupoints sealed, Bai Fengxi could only watch helplessly as he left to confront the enemy, her heart heavy with sorrow. Meanwhile, on another path up Mount Xuan, Sun Si, a servant of Fountain Abode, intercepted various martial artists seeking Yan Yingzhou. He falsely claimed Hei Fengxi had booby-trapped the mountain, effectively deterring them and preventing them from encountering Bai Fengxi. Bai Fengxi later awoke and desperately searched for Yan Yingzhou, only to find his lifeless body.

She was then ambushed by members of the Soultaker Sect. Just as she was in peril, Hei Fengxi arrived, rescuing her. He personally tended to her wounds, using a rare millennium-old snow lotus as an antidote for the poison from decaying vines she had contracted. Yet, Bai Fengxi remained ungrateful. Inside the silver blade entrusted to her by Yan Yingzhou, a hidden Empyrean Token was revealed.

Hei Fengxi, however, immediately recognized it as a fake, pointing out its lack of the characteristic blue glow of Northsea Iron. He deduced that Yan Yingzhou had been a decoy in a larger scheme. Hei Fengxi theorized that Prince Huang Chao, known for valuing talent, would not have sacrificed Yan Yingzhou for a genuine token. Instead, the fake token was deliberately used to instigate conflict among ambitious heroes, allowing a shadowy mastermind to eliminate rivals and gain an advantage.

He instructed Zhong Li to set up temporary huts nearby, awaiting Bai Fengxi's recovery before departing. Upon receiving General Xiao Xuekong’s report of Yan Yingzhou’s death on Mount Xuan and the rumor that Bai Fengxi now possessed the Empyrean Token, Prince Huang Chao, despite his initial elation over the token, focused on the loss of his esteemed general. He ordered his men to go to Mount Xuan to retrieve Yan Yingzhou's body, ensuring he would be brought home.

Later, as Bai Fengxi slowly recovered, she confronted Hei Fengxi, accusing him of feigning concern and only saving her for the Empyrean Token. She questioned why he hadn't taken the token when he knew it was in the blade. Hei Fengxi explained that Fountain Abode’s rule for revealing such information came at a steep price she couldn’t afford, before confirming that the token was indeed fake. Bai Fengxi mused on the ruthless conspiracy behind the fake token.

Hei Fengxi casually remarked on Yan Yingzhou’s bravery but critiqued his martial arts, suggesting he himself was superior. Bai Fengxi retorted, accusing him of false modesty and contrasting his "scheming" nature with Yan Yingzhou's heroism. When Hei Fengxi offered her more medicinal broth, Bai Fengxi skeptically commented that his concoction might be more poisonous than her current ailment.

Zhong Li interjected, revealing that Hei Fengxi had sacrificed his prized millennium-old snow lotus for her cure and had personally fed her medicine when she was too weak to do so herself. Hei Fengxi quickly silenced Zhong Li, then playfully teased Bai Fengxi about being afraid of bitter medicine.

Episode 2 Recap

Bai Fengxi declined Hei Fengxi's offer of medicine, stating she had no need for his false kindness. Later, she visited Yan Yingzhou's tomb, vowing to fulfill the promise she made to him. Hei Fengxi appeared and playfully questioned if she intended to guard the tomb. Bai Fengxi retorted that her actions were her own concern and accused him of hypocrisy.

She confronted him about his involvement in the Mount Xuan incident, claiming he knew about the black-clad attackers and deliberately allowed Yan Yingzhou to fight to his death despite having an opportunity to save him. Hei Fengxi acknowledged her sharp perception, admitting he could conceal things from the world but not from her.

He insisted his actions had their reasons and reminded her that her internal poison was only suppressed, urging her to obtain the Buddha Pill from the Han family for a complete cure. Bai Fengxi dismissed him, indicating a desire to part ways, but Hei Fengxi believed she would eventually understand that it was the King of Jizhou's greed that led to General Yan Yingzhou's demise.

That night, the Han family residence was engulfed in flames, and all its members were massacred. Bai Fengxi, having had a public altercation with Han Xuanling over medicine, was immediately branded the culprit by an enraged crowd seeking vengeance. Hei Fengxi stepped forward, providing an alibi for Bai Fengxi, stating she had been with him for the past few days. This assertion momentarily pacified the crowd, and Bai Fengxi pledged to investigate the matter to clear her name.

Accompanying her to the ravaged Han residence, Hei Fengxi noted the unusual nature of the massacre. Bai Fengxi, observing the distinct wounds from curved blades, concluded that the Soultaker Sect was responsible, likely targeting the Han family for their valuable medicines and secret prescriptions, which could be a significant asset in warfare or the martial arts world. Hei Fengxi discovered that one body was missing among the 55 Han family members – that of a child.

He surmised that Han Xuanling must have hidden his young son, Han Pu. They located a traumatized Han Pu, along with the Han family's medicinal prescriptions, in a hidden room. Bai Fengxi then questioned Hei Fengxi if his earlier visit to the Han family had also been for these very prescriptions. Hei Fengxi then proposed a risky plan to Bai Fengxi: publicize the discovery of Han Pu and the prescriptions to lure the Soultaker Sect.

Although he warned her of the inherent danger, Bai Fengxi decided to adapt his strategy, intending to use his own methods of entrapment against him. She assured Han Pu that his family had been properly buried and promised to protect him while investigating the massacre. Soon after, Hei Fengxi found himself ambushed by Soultaker Sect members demanding the prescriptions, realizing Bai Fengxi had indeed turned his own tactic against him.

Later, at an inn, Hei Fengxi used acupuncture to calm the severely shocked Han Pu, allowing the boy to finally rest. Noticing Bai Fengxi's internal energy remained unstable, Hei Fengxi questioned why she hadn't refined the Buddha Pill from the Han family prescriptions to cure her own poison.

Bai Fengxi firmly stated her principles, explaining that despite her urgent need, she would not use the Han family's property without Han Pu's consent, contrasting this with her previous actions to save a life. Bai Fengxi then directly asked Hei Fengxi if he had found any clues about the Soultaker Sect from the recent ambush. After some playful haggling, Hei Fengxi revealed a silver leaf found on one of the bodies, marked with the character "Shang."

He explained that such marks were used by prominent families to identify their silver, indicating the Shang family of Yucheng, one of the city's two powerful and wealthy clans, had colluded with the Soultaker Sect for the Han family's prescriptions. To uncover their motive, a journey to Yucheng was deemed essential. As they traveled by carriage with Han Pu, Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi engaged in witty banter.

Bai Fengxi poured tea for Hei Fengxi, who jokingly suggested she become his maidservant. She retorted with a threat of her fists, challenging him with her martial arts style, "Phoenix of the Highest Heaven," to which he responded by referencing his own, "Darkness under the Heaven." Bai Fengxi accused Hei Fengxi of being exceptionally proud, even more so than Prince Huang Chao.

Hei Fengxi conceded there was one person who genuinely impressed him: Feng Xiyun of Qingzhou, whom he praised extensively for her wisdom, her renowned "Ten Strategies of Jingtai" written at age ten, and her unparalleled literary talent, reciting one of her poignant poems. Hei Fengxi's poem stirred deep sorrow in Han Pu, reminding him of his father, and the boy wept.

When Han Pu expressed hunger, it was discovered that Bai Fengxi had consumed all the provisions in Hei Fengxi's food container. She then ventured out to find food herself, leaving Hei Fengxi alone with Han Pu. Taking this opportunity, Hei Fengxi sought Han Pu's expertise, presenting him with rare medicinal ingredients for the Buddha Pill and confessing his repeated failures in refining it.

Han Pu, deducing that the flaw lay in the extraction method, agreed to assist Hei Fengxi, recognizing that the effort was ultimately for Bai Fengxi's lingering poison. He asked Hei Fengxi to leave him to his work. Meanwhile, Prince Huang Chao received a report from Xiao Xuekong confirming that Bai Fengxi's body had not been found on Mount Xuan, implying she and the Empyrean Token were now with Hei Fengxi.

Incensed that Yan Yingzhou's sacrifice might have been in vain, Huang Chao ordered Yan Yingzhou's body to be retrieved from Mount Xuan for a state burial in Jizhou. He then commanded Xiao Xuekong to locate Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi, declaring his intent to personally confront these two formidable masters. Concurrently, at Tianshuang Sect, numerous martial artists gathered, demanding that Sect Leader Bai Jiande surrender Bai Fengxi and the Empyrean Token.

Bai Jiande, however, firmly asserted his sect's neutrality in imperial affairs and disinterest in the token, successfully deflecting the aggressive crowd with a stern warning against disturbing their sanctuary. That night, Soultaker Sect members tracked Hei Fengxi, Bai Fengxi, and Han Pu to the inn. In the ensuing confrontation, the assassins proved no match for the combined might of Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi, choosing to commit suicide rather than face capture.

Afterward, Bai Fengxi gently advised Han Pu against seeking vengeance through violence, explaining that killing only perpetuates a cycle of bloodshed, and promised to deal with the remaining Soultaker Sect members herself to keep his hands clean. Simultaneously, Ren Chuanyun, Hei Fengxi's trusted subordinate, grew concerned about Hei Fengxi's trip to Yucheng, especially with the upcoming autumn hunting event and the watchful eyes of the Third Prince.

A reassuring letter from Hei Fengxi, however, guided Ren Chuanyun and his brother Ren Chuanyu to meet with Miss Huan to carry out further instructions. Meanwhile, the Soultaker Sect Master, anticipating Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi's arrival in Yucheng with new leads, orchestrated a pre-emptive strike, destroying Fountain Abode's outposts in the city. He believed that crippling Hei Fengxi's intelligence network, which he considered his greatest strength, would effectively halve his power.

Hei Fengxi, now informed of the loss of his Yucheng outposts, acknowledged the formidable power of the hidden mastermind behind the Soultaker Sect. He pondered how to investigate the Shang family without the support of Fountain Abode's intelligence network. Bai Fengxi, observing his introspection, playfully criticized his over-reliance on his organization, reminding him of his own inherent prowess.

Her words sparked a new strategy in Hei Fengxi: recognizing Yucheng was dominated by two powerful "local tyrants," the Shang family being one, the most effective approach would be to seek the assistance of the other dominant family, the Qi family. Following this plan, they strategically settled in a prominent Yucheng inn to await contact. As they dined, Qi Yun, the arrogant young master of the Qi family, approached and rudely demanded to buy Hei Fengxi's horse.

Upon Hei Fengxi's refusal, Qi Yun ordered his formidable guard, Zhao Qinghou, to seize the horse. Zhao Qinghou, the renowned leader of the Qiujiang Alliance, quickly overpowered Zhong Li, who was defending the horse. Recognizing Zhao Qinghou, Bai Fengxi intervened, asserting her identity and decisively kicking him to the ground, causing a panicked Qi Yun and his retinue to retreat. Bai Fengxi questioned Hei Fengxi's confrontational tactics, reminding him of their goal of cooperation. Hei Fengxi explained that displaying strength and dominance early in negotiations would ultimately secure greater advantages.

Episode 3 Recap

Bai Fengxi confronted Hei Fengxi about his decision to humiliate Qi Yun, the young master of the Qi family, when their original plan was to cooperate with them. Hei Fengxi explained that displaying strength during cooperation ensures greater benefits. Back at his estate, Qi Yun recounted how a young man's maidservant had effortlessly defeated Zhao Qinghou, a renowned martial artist. Qi Yannian, the head of the Qi family, immediately recognized the significance of such power.

He deduced that the maidservant must be a remarkably carefree woman. Realizing the gravity of offending such influential figures, Qi Yannian promptly brought Qi Yun to apologize to Hei Fengxi, offering a third of the Qi family's substantial wealth as a peace offering. Hei Fengxi accepted and asked Qi Yannian what he sought in return.

Qi Yannian revealed his desire for the permit to sell salt in Shangzhou, currently held by the powerful Shang family, who had used it to dominate Yucheng's commerce. Hei Fengxi then increased his demand to half of the Qi family's wealth, which Qi Yannian reluctantly conceded. In exchange, Hei Fengxi requested intelligence on the Shang family.

Qi Yannian disclosed that Shang Ye, the head of the Shang family, visited the Lifang Parlor every third day of the month, which was today. After the Qi father and son departed, Bai Fengxi emerged, remarking on Hei Fengxi's cunning, acquiring both crucial information and immense wealth. Hei Fengxi, emphasizing his preference for strategic thinking, instructed her to prepare for their visit to the Lifang Parlor.

Later that evening, at the Lifang Parlor, Bai Fengxi watched a dancer perform the "Dance of Allure," calling the male patrons "thirsty" and crude. Hei Fengxi countered that not all men were so vulgar, prompting Bai Fengxi to playfully tease him. She observed his blushing face, tense muscles, and rapid breathing, much to his irritation. Hei Fengxi then revealed his plan: he needed Bai Fengxi to wear a red dress and perform the same alluring dance to charm Shang Ye.

The goal was to subtly extract information about his connection to the Soultaker Sect and the salt permit, as members of the sect were known to commit suicide rather than reveal secrets under duress. Bai Fengxi initially protested but eventually agreed. As she emerged in the red attire, Hei Fengxi was visibly captivated, describing her as "gorgeous as a blooming blossom, fair as a flowing brook." Once Shang Ye was sufficiently disarmed by Bai Fengxi's performance, Hei Fengxi incapacitated him.

He pressed Shang Ye for the Soultaker Sect's location. Shang Ye claimed to only know of a division within Yucheng and offered to draw a map. Shang Ye, seizing the distraction, leaped out a window and fled. Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi gave chase, with Shang Ye mockingly stating he was 'testing the waters', a tactic he had learned from Hei Fengxi himself. They soon arrived at the Soultaker Sect's division hideout, which appeared strangely deserted.

Hei Fengxi warned Bai Fengxi to follow his lead and avoid impulsive actions. Inside, they confronted eight members of the Soultaker Sect arranged in the "Octo-Ghost Soul Formation." Hei Fengxi identified it as a poison array and instructed Bai Fengxi to hold her breath. He skillfully dismantled the formation, avenging the earlier attack on their Yucheng outpost. Despite their success, Shang Ye and his men managed to escape, much to Hei Fengxi's slight annoyance at his rare "miss."

They discovered a peculiar piece of fabric left behind, adorned with a pattern of "Qióngqióng and Jùxū"—two legendary, inseparable mythical beasts. Hei Fengxi explained that this symbol represented a power capable of forcing Yucheng's wealthiest to submit. He vowed to uncover its full significance. With the Soultaker Sect momentarily suppressed, Bai Fengxi planned to take Han Pu back to the Tianshuang Sect.

That very night, a massive fire engulfed the Shang family estate, leading to rumors that Shang Ye had immolated himself. The next day, Bai Fengxi witnessed Hei Fengxi distributing money to the fire's victims and mistakenly believed he had orchestrated the fire to seize the Shang family's wealth and boost his reputation, all while neglecting those who might have been trapped.

She confronted him, branding him a "scheming, cunning, vicious, selfish, and heartless Black Foxy," despite the public praising him as a hero. As she spoke, Bai Fengxi recognized some of the recipients as Shang family guards, realizing that Hei Fengxi had, in fact, saved them. Hei Fengxi confirmed that Shang Ye had indeed set his fortune ablaze but had escaped with his family, proving he was not entirely heartless and was a "remarkable individual" for his decisive sacrifice.

Ashamed, Bai Fengxi, accompanied by Han Pu, departed, chastising herself for her hasty judgment. Along the way, they discovered two injured birds, one black and one white. Bai Fengxi suggested they each adopt one as an act of compassion. Hei Fengxi declined, stating he never keeps pets. Exasperated, Bai Fengxi decided to adopt both, remarking that those living in privilege wouldn't understand the pain of losing a mother.

Hei Fengxi then quietly revealed that he too had lost his mother at a young age, prompting Bai Fengxi to apologize again. They then amicably parted ways, each taking one of the birds. Bai Fengxi and Han Pu continued their journey, reaching Tai Town in Shangzhou.

Han Pu, weary and frustrated by their constant struggle for food and shelter, complained bitterly about following Bai Fengxi, lamenting their poverty compared to the imagined wealth of heroes like Bai Fengxi and Hei Fengxi. Bai Fengxi, feeling guilty, promised to use their last silver leaf to buy him as much food as he desired. While eating, they observed a growing number of refugees streaming into Tai Town from Luocheng, one of the Qi Yun Ten Cities.

They learned that the Imperial Family's Empyrean Token had been lost, triggering Shangzhou's military offensive against Luocheng and signaling a period of widespread conflict. Moved by the refugees' plight, Bai Fengxi sacrificed their last silver leaf to buy food for them. Meanwhile, Hei Fengxi, also observing the refugee crisis, recognized the escalating conflict in Luocheng.

His aide suggested a detour, but Hei Fengxi insisted on proceeding through Luocheng, suspecting that the Lord of Shangzhou was foolishly testing the Imperial Family's resolve. He vowed to prevent such an ignorant ruler from disrupting the grand plan for the world. Simultaneously, in Luocheng, Governor Fei Sheng and Commander Liu Wenxiang faced a desperate situation, caught between an advancing Shangzhou army and their inability to retreat or surrender, exacerbated by the missing Empyrean Token.

The renowned Finest Gentry, Yu Wuyuan, arrived alone. He declared Luocheng's situation a "deadlock" and offered to single-handedly persuade the Lord of Shangzhou to withdraw his forces, emphasizing that his intention was negotiation, not combat. Later, in the mountains, Bai Fengxi and Han Pu were roasting fish. Han Pu's enthusiastic fanning accidentally covered Bai Fengxi's face with soot. Fearing her wrath, Han Pu fled into the bushes, narrowly avoiding a sword strike from Xiao Xuekong.

Bai Fengxi swiftly intervened, gripping Xiao Xuekong's blade with two fingers, and demanded an apology for endangering Han Pu. Huang Chao then appeared, intrigued by Bai Fengxi's exceptional skill. He engaged her in a fierce, evenly matched combat. Huang Chao remarked that Bai Fengxi was only the second person, after Yu Wuyuan, whose prowess made him unsure of victory.

Bai Fengxi reiterated her demand for Xiao Xuekong to apologize, arguing that the absence of harm did not negate the wrongfulness of his actions. Xiao Xuekong apologized. Han Pu, still unaware of Bai Fengxi's true identity, boastfully declared his ambition to surpass both Bai Fengxi and Hei Fengxi, drawing a smile from Xiao Xuekong. Huang Chao clarified that he admired Han Pu's youthful ambition, though he noted that surpassing the legendary Bai-Hei Fengxi was a monumental task.

As Bai Fengxi and Han Pu prepared to leave, Huang Chao pressed her for her name and expressed curiosity as to why someone of her caliber was unknown and traveling with a child in such an desolate area. Bai Fengxi countered by questioning his presence there. Huang Chao reiterated that she was the second person he couldn't confidently defeat, once again naming Yu Wuyuan as the first.

At the Shangzhou army camp, a general scoffed at Yu Wuyuan's arrival, dismissing him as a "frail scholar." Yu Wuyuan firmly stated his purpose was peaceful negotiation directly with the Shangzhou commander. The general, refusing to convey the message, instead threatened to deliver Yu Wuyuan's head to his commander.

Episode 4 Recap

As the Shangzhou army general outside Luocheng vehemently refused peace and demanded surrender, Yu Wuyuan appeared, a lone figure in white, seemingly an unarmed scholar. With a swift move, Yu Wuyuan unhorsed the general and then called out, seeking an audience with Fan Shiji, the Shangzhou commander. Commander Fan, while respectful of Yu Wuyuan’s reputation as the Finest Gentry, expressed no intention of retreating.

Yu Wuyuan warned him that the Six States were currently in turmoil, each with their own secret ambitions, and an unrighteous war now would only invite other states to invade Shangzhou. Acknowledging Shangzhou's wealth but average military strength, Yu Wuyuan offered to negotiate with Luocheng's governor for a complete tax exemption for Shangzhou if they retreated.

Swayed, Commander Fan agreed to report the offer to his King, and Yu Wuyuan’s ability to halt the conflict with mere words earned widespread admiration. Meanwhile, Bai Fengxi encountered Prince Huang Chao and his General Saoxue, Xiao Xuekong. Having known Hei Fengxi for years, Bai Fengxi felt she should be accustomed to extraordinary men, yet she was struck by Huang Chao's presence and quickly identified him.

Huang Chao, in turn, sensed her exceptional skill but couldn't place her identity, noting her appearance didn't match the legend of the "beautiful and lethal" Bai Fengxi. He proposed that one day, he would transform the barren mountains into a clear lake and invite her for a purifying bath, to which Bai Fengxi readily agreed. After sharing a meal, Bai Fengxi asked Han Pu to pack the leftovers and then handed Yan Yingzhou's silver blade to Huang Chao.

Seeing the blade, Huang Chao confirmed her identity, calling her the "oddest woman in the world." Bai Fengxi mentioned Hei Fengxi's suspicion that the Empyrean Token might be a fake, prompting Huang Chao to decide on having Yu Wuyuan verify it. He also resolved to go to Tianshuang Sect to resolve the troubles of those seeking the Empyrean Token from Bai Fengxi, as a gesture of gratitude.

Back at the Shangzhou encampment, Commander Fan raised a truce flag and sent a peace proposal to his King. However, Eunuch Liu, who had been dispatched by the Shang King to oversee the war, accused Fan Shiji of cowardice and defying a royal order. He ordered Fan Shiji to be beheaded as a sacrifice, denouncing him for violating military law. Yu Wuyuan, anticipating treachery, had already sensed that all was not yet settled.

Just as he predicted, the Shangzhou army quickly surrounded Luocheng. Yu Wuyuan assured the city lord of his unwavering commitment to Luocheng and his confidence in winning the battle. From the city wall, he commanded his army to deploy the Sancai Array and the Xuannang Array to stall the main force, urging them to beat war drums to boost morale. As the battle was about to commence, Hei Fengxi suddenly appeared within the Shangzhou ranks, capturing Eunuch Liu.

He warned Liu that if they attacked Luocheng now, the Shangzhou army would be vulnerable to a pincer attack from Jizhou's Skyrider Cavalry, which was only half a day away. Hei Fengxi also subtly threatened the Shang King, revealing knowledge of his secret illness and threatening to intervene personally if the war continued. Terrified, Eunuch Liu immediately ordered a retreat. After the army withdrew, Yu Wuyuan descended from the city wall to personally thank Hei Fengxi.

Hei Fengxi humbly dismissed his intervention, saying Yu Wuyuan could have handled it, as Shangzhou was destined to lose the war anyway. That night, the city lord ordered a grand celebration. Yu Wuyuan and Hei Fengxi conversed late into the night at the Sunset Restaurant. Hei Fengxi recognized the special silk paper of a letter delivered to Yu Wuyuan, deducing it was from Prince Huang Chao. The letter contained two good pieces of news and one bad.

The bad news was the honorable death of Yan Yingzhou, who sacrificed himself to protect the Empyrean Token. The first good news was that Huang Chao had acquired the token. The second, unexpectedly, was that Huang Chao had met Bai Fengxi on a mountain outside Tianshuang Sect and highly praised her beauty and innate talent. Hei Fengxi reacted with thinly veiled jealousy, stating that meeting her was "the worst thing," while Yu Wuyuan considered it a fortunate encounter.

Hei Fengxi reflected that with a capable advisor like Yu Wuyuan by his side, Huang Chao's ambition was becoming apparent, making him a rival to be watched closely. Meanwhile, Bai Fengxi and Han Pu were confronted by several martial artists demanding the Empyrean Token upon their approach to Tianshuang Sect. At that moment, Huang Chao appeared, confirming that the token was now in his possession and warning the pursuers away, claiming his Skyrider Cavalry was nearby.

The martial artists, realizing their disadvantage, quickly dispersed. Huang Chao thanked Bai Fengxi again before departing for Jizhou. Upon returning to Tianshuang Sect, Bai Fengxi playfully bickered with her junior martial sister. She then reported to her master, Bai Jiande, about her encounter with the Soultaker Sect. She described their ruthless nature and mastery of lethal techniques, including knife, Six-Ghost, and Eight-Ghost Soul formations. She also mentioned finding a handkerchief embroidered with the mythical beasts "Qiongqiong" and "Juxu."

Bai Jiande's expression turned grim as he recognized these symbols from a mysterious, brutal army that had attacked the Dadong Empire's capital during the Chongde era. He feared that these ancient enemies, after a century of lying low, had re-emerged as the Soultaker Sect, portending renewed chaos in the world. Later, Bai Fengxi encouraged Han Pu not to rush growing up but to pursue his aspirations.

Han Pu expressed a wish to be as strong as her and wondered if Prince Huang Chao, if he became emperor, would be lonely. Bai Fengxi acknowledged that true companionship was rare, contrasting it with the material wealth and power emperors accumulate, which Han Pu noted they couldn't take to the afterlife. Han Pu, in turn, vowed to grow strong enough to protect Bai Fengxi.

In Yongzhou, Feng Ju, the Third Prince, ostensibly went to the Hot Spring Palace to visit his ailing Second Brother, Feng Lanxi, who was supposedly recuperating there. In reality, Feng Ju sought to confirm suspicions about Lanxi's absence. Huan Niang, Prince Lanxi's steward, resolutely blocked Feng Ju from entering, as a decoy was currently impersonating Lanxi. Just then, Feng Chang, the First Prince, arrived.

Recognizing the precarious situation, he orchestrated a dramatic scene by whipping Huan Niang, intentionally escalating the conflict to deter Feng Ju. Governor Ren Rusong, who had been accompanying the princes during military exercises, then appeared. He sternly rebuked Feng Chang for assaulting a palace official and offered to personally escort both princes to see Lanxi. As Feng Ju peered through a window, he caught a glimpse of what appeared to be someone receiving treatment, momentarily alleviating his doubts.

Feigning disinterest, he decided to return to the relay station, but not before giving Huan Niang some money for her injuries. After Feng Ju left, Ren Rusong thanked Feng Chang. He explained that Princess Yige had entrusted Prince Lanxi to his care before her death, and he was honor-bound to protect him. They agreed to send word to Feng Lanxi, urging him to return to the palace as soon as possible. However, later, Feng Ju realized he had been deceived.

Instead of confronting his brothers directly, he decided it would be more impactful for his father, the Yong King, to witness the deception firsthand. He sought an audience with the Yong King, who had just been informed of the Shangzhou army's retreat, dismissing Shang King Yang Jinghong as narrow-minded for being swayed by Yu Wuyuan and Hei Fengxi.

Feng Ju complained about Feng Chang being an unchallenging opponent in their military exercise and subtly hinted at Lanxi's absence from the Hot Spring Palace, framing it as Lanxi "avoiding" him rather than an unauthorized departure. The Yong King, finding it hard to believe his son would intentionally avoid a brother's visit, decided to accompany Feng Ju to the Hot Spring Palace the following day, a holiday, to personally ascertain Lanxi's condition.

Episode 5 Recap

Feng Lanxi, also known as Hei Fengxi, hurried back to the Hot Spring Palace, barely making it before Yong King's arrival. He quickly feigned illness and lay in bed, looking weak and frail. Ren Rusong and the Third Prince, Feng Ju, were already waiting at the palace entrance to welcome Yong King. Feng Ju, confident that Feng Lanxi would not be in his room, was shocked to find him there, appearing severely ill.

Yong King, concerned, brought his personal Physician Wu to examine Feng Lanxi. Physician Wu diagnosed a weak pulse, significant internal coldness, and a recurrence of an old illness, all due to prolonged overexertion. Yong King angrily demanded an explanation. Feng Lanxi confessed that he had not stayed at the Hot Spring Palace continuously. He admitted he had lied about his reason for coming, and instead, he had frequently visited Mt.

Anyu, located behind the palace, to mourn his late mother, Princess Yige. He explained that he kept this secret to avoid rekindling his father's grief and to prevent any rumors from spreading in court or among the populace. Yong King, feeling remorse for his late queen and moved by his son's filial piety, decided not to pursue the matter further.

He then instructed Feng Lanxi to pack his belongings and return to the capital of Yongzhou for the upcoming autumn hunt. Back at the capital, Feng Lanxi's attendants remarked that he always manages to escape danger, as if aided by divine power. Meanwhile, Zhong Li reported to Ren Rusong that Feng Lanxi had been traveling with Bai Fengxi and that they had journeyed together until an incident in Yucheng.

As Feng Lanxi's master, Ren Rusong instructed Zhong Li to pay close attention to the people around His Highness, emphasizing that it concerned his safety. Later, Feng Lanxi questioned Ren Rusong about Yong King's true feelings, believing his father was disappointed to find him at the palace. He felt that if he had been absent, the position of Heir Apparent would have fallen to Feng Ju, and his father would have been relieved.

Ren Rusong advised Feng Lanxi to focus on the upcoming autumn hunt, hinting at the participation of Feng Qiwu from the influential Feng family. Ren Rusong described Feng Qiwu as the powerful head of the Feng family and Minister of Civil Service Affairs, whose elders were pressing her to marry. He suggested that a marriage alliance with Feng Qiwu would secure the Feng family's crucial support.

Feng Lanxi acknowledged his master's intentions but worried that an open marriage alliance would provoke hostility from Feng Ju and Queen Baili. He assured Ren Rusong that he would devise a suitable strategy for cooperation. Upon returning to his residence, Feng Lanxi also showed his appreciation for his head maid, Huan Niang, whose quick thinking had been crucial. He expressed concern for her injuries and gifted her an exquisite hairpin from the famed Tiangong Workshop.

The other maids noted that Feng Lanxi rarely paid attention to such feminine trinkets, and this personal gift was a significant display of his favor, leaving Huan Niang deeply touched. Soon after, Feng Lanxi received the official rules for the autumn hunt from Yong King. He quickly realized it was not merely a hunt but a grand examination, specifically a test to select a suitable husband.

The rules had been significantly altered: the hunting ground was divided into three entrances, with each prince allowed to bring ten personal guards. The scoring system was tiered, assigning points based on the type of prey, aiming to test the princes' strategic thinking. Additionally, participants were required to present their gifts with a dedication speech, turning it into a literary assessment.

Feng Lanxi recognized Feng Qiwu's profound influence, noting that she herself was perhaps even more valuable than the Feng family's political power, and the true objective was to win her favor. In the martial arts world, the Soultaker Sect continued its brutal rampage. Bai Fengxi learned from her master, Bai Jiande, that the Luoyan Sect had been attacked, with only three survivors out of fifty-seven.

Bai Jiande called for the Tianshuang Sect to seek justice and dispatched Bai Fengxi and other disciples to investigate, with orders to meet at Xuanyi Inn by nightfall. Meanwhile, Feng Lanxi received news that Bai Fengxi had returned to the Tianshuang Sect and that over ten other martial arts sects, including Lieyang Sect and Xuanyuan Sect, had also been annihilated by the Soultaker Sect.

Considering Tianshuang Sect's involvement, Feng Lanxi instructed Zhong Li to send Cangyi to monitor their movements, anticipating they might uncover more clues. Bai Fengxi and Bai Jiande inspected the bodies of the Tie family, another victim of the Soultaker Sect, confirming their involvement. Bai Fengxi vowed to eradicate these "devils" and the resurgence of the force behind them, expressing her determination to leave "not a single one of them alive."

That night, after her fellow disciples reported no significant findings, Bai Fengxi analyzed the Soultaker Sect's targets. She theorized that they were systematically targeting sects with specific expertise—medicine (Han family), military formations (Xuanyuan Sect), and smithing (Tie family)—to forge a powerful army, not merely to dominate the martial arts world. She deduced that their next target would likely be the Ma family of Jizhou. Simultaneously, Feng Lanxi independently reached the same critical conclusion.

He immediately ordered Zhong Li to send Cangyi to relay this urgent information to Bai Fengxi and instructed the Jizhou division to prepare for immediate assistance. On the day of the autumn hunt, Feng Chang and Feng Ju participated with great enthusiasm. In stark contrast, Feng Lanxi appeared sickly, calmly sipping tea and reading. Feng Qiwu observed the three princes. She noted Feng Chang's ruthless tactic of using fawns as bait to hunt a deer king, concluding he was cruel.

She found Feng Ju ambitious but mediocre, seemingly relying on his status as Queen Baili's son, as he eagerly pursued jackals. She dismissed Feng Lanxi as a weakling, "fussier than a woman." During the hunt, Feng Qiwu found herself encircled by a pack of wolves. To her surprise, Feng Lanxi, the "weakling," intervened and rescued her. Impressed by his true strength, she agreed to keep his secret.

As the hunt neared its conclusion, Yong King announced that the winner would receive the Cloud Cutter Sword, an ancestral treasure. Feng Chang presented his spoils: two deer and ten small creatures, earning him 20 points, accompanied by a dedication speech wishing Yongzhou prosperity. Feng Lanxi, with no visible prey, was initially overlooked by Yong King due to his supposed illness.

Feng Ju then presented two deer and two jackals, scoring 30 points, and confidently anticipated his victory, dedicating his gifts to a strong Yongzhou military. However, Feng Qiwu then stepped forward, requesting to join the competition. She presented four jackals, achieving a score of 40 points, surpassing Feng Ju and demonstrating her formidable skill. She delivered a dedication speech about a wise leader guiding the nation.

Yong King was about to award the sword to Feng Qiwu when Feng Lanxi's "gifts" finally arrived: a cart laden with twenty live deer. Feng Ju immediately accused Feng Lanxi of cheating, arguing that these were not hunted prey. Feng Lanxi explained that due to his lifelong poor health, he refrained from taking lives.

He recounted his discovery that the sap of Lanwei flowers could temporarily tame wild animals, which he then used to "lure" the deer, rather than kill them. His dedication speech, he noted, was similar to Feng Qiwu's, expressing his willingness to "hunt for you, Father."

Episode 6 Recap

During the autumn hunt, when many expected Feng Qiwu to win, Feng Lanxi surprised everyone by revealing that his personal guards had brought in twenty elk, making his catch the largest. He explained to his father, the Yong King, that his prolonged illness had led him to study medicine, through which he discovered the sap of Lanwei flowers could temporarily tame wild beasts.

Not wishing to kill needlessly, he used this method, expressing his willingness to hunt for the Yong King. Impressed, the Yong King bestowed the Cloud Cutter Sword upon him. After returning to her estate, Feng Qiwu instructed her family elder to visit the Fountain Abode and purchase information about Feng Lanxi. She was eager to understand the rumored Second Prince's true nature, bewildered that he had managed to deceive everyone, including herself, for so long.

She remained unaware that Hei Fengxi and Feng Lanxi were one and the same person. Meanwhile, Chuanyun, curious about Feng Lanxi's display of hidden strength and his usual pretense of weakness, sought answers from Miss Huan. Miss Huan recounted Feng Lanxi's tragic past, beginning with his birth mother, Princess Yige of Dadong, who became the first Queen of Yongzhou.

Despite knowing the Yong King had taken Baili as a concubine before their marriage, the late queen welcomed Baili and even raised Baili's son, Feng Chang. This led Feng Chang to be unusually kind to Feng Lanxi, despite his cold demeanor towards others. After Feng Lanxi's birth, his mother's health declined, allowing Baili to gain favor with the Yong King. Baili gave birth to Feng Ju, the Third Prince, and was promoted to consort.

The late queen, fearing accusations of jealousy, refrained from contending for affection and tragically passed away years later. Soon after, Baili became the new queen, known publicly for her virtuous nature and for treating Feng Lanxi as her own son. However, Miss Huan revealed that Baili aimed to weaken Feng Lanxi, purposefully surrounding him with courtesans and maids to secure the position of heir for Feng Ju.

After the previous king's demise, the Yong King never appointed Feng Lanxi as heir and showed him little true affection. Feng Lanxi endured three years of placating Baili while secretly cultivating the Fountain Abode, eventually using a fabricated poisoning incident to drive away Baili's spies, thus maintaining his facade of weakness. Hei Fengxi received news that Tianshuang Sect was heading to King Ma's castle, confirming his own suspicions.

Noticing Feng Qiwu's interest in investigating him, he instructed Zhong Li to arrange a meeting with her at Lanyun Pavilion the following day. Meanwhile, Bai Fengxi and her master, Bai Jiande, arrived in Jizhou ahead of the Soultaker Sect. They planned to set a trap, realizing they needed the Ma family's cooperation.

Bai Fengxi approached Ma Mengqi, the family head, revealing that the Soultaker Sect's true objective was to gather the "four great assets" of soldiers, medicine, arrays, and horses to form a powerful army and seize control of the world. Initially believing it to be a mere martial world feud, Ma Mengqi, upon learning the global implications, readily agreed to work with Tianshuang Sect.

Later, Feng Chang visited Feng Lanxi, expressing frustration that his brother had hidden his true abilities at the autumn hunt. Feng Chang, concerned about Feng Ju's envious nature, also worried about potential harm to Feng Lanxi. Feng Lanxi patiently explained his reasons and offered a gift, which pleased Feng Chang, and they reconciled. As scheduled, Feng Qiwu met Feng Lanxi at Lanyun Pavilion. She observed a confident and authentic demeanor, vastly different from his public persona.

She openly expressed her admiration, subtly comparing herself to Zhuo Wenjun offering to support him as Sima Xiangru. Feng Lanxi accepted her offer, formally forging an alliance. Thanks to Tianshuang Sect's strategic setup, King Ma's castle successfully ambushed the initial wave of Soultaker Sect assassins, averting a massacre. However, Bai Fengxi predicted that the Soultaker Sect would not relent, likely returning with even stronger forces. She decided that Tianshuang Sect should remain at King Ma's castle to continue the defense.

Ma Mengqi, in turn, arranged for the elderly, women, and children to be relocated to Zhaocheng for safety. Zhong Li informed Hei Fengxi that six of the highly mysterious Ten Temples Devils from the Soultaker Sect, including the formidable Chu Jiang who once single-handedly defeated five Mingyue Court masters, were en route to King Ma's castle and would arrive within three days.

Concerned for Bai Fengxi's safety but unable to openly leave the capital, Hei Fengxi deliberately provoked the Yong King during a court session. He proposed controversial strategies for consolidating power, which angered the Yong King, leading to a half-month house arrest. Feng Ju gloated, unaware that this was Feng Lanxi's calculated move.

After the court session, the Yong King visited Feng Lanxi's residence, revealing that he understood the underlying logic of Feng Lanxi's proposals and that his reprimand was a protective measure. He praised Feng Lanxi's intelligence and expressed his intent to assign him important tasks once he recovered. Feng Lanxi, however, respectfully declined, citing his delicate health and his understanding of his father's inherent suspicion towards any son who appeared too ambitious for the throne.

He explained that a display of competence would only invite wariness, hindering his true plans. This grounding also provided him the perfect opportunity to leave for King Ma's castle unseen. Meanwhile, Sun Si from the Fountain Abode informed Bai Fengxi about the approaching Ten Temples Devils and conveyed Hei Fengxi's warning to be cautious, offering the Fountain Abode's full support if needed.

Bai Fengxi then asked Sun Si to covertly station his men at the Ma family's separate villa in advance to protect the remaining relatives from the impending attack. As anticipated, that night, the Soultaker Sect launched another assault on King Ma's castle. Bai Fengxi and the Tianshuang Sect fought valiantly against the six Devils, but the battle was fierce. Bai Jiande was severely wounded while momentarily distracted by concern for his daughter.

Ma Mengqi and other defenders were also injured, prompting Bai Fengxi to urge them to retreat while she stayed behind to confront the remaining attackers alone. Just as she was about to be overwhelmed, Hei Fengxi arrived, enraged by her injury, and swiftly eliminated three of the Devils. Shortly after, Yu Wuyuan appeared, dispatching the last Devil.

Yu Wuyuan introduced himself, stating he had been en route to Jizhou to see Huang Chao but diverted to King Ma's castle upon hearing that "the world's oddest woman," Bai Fengxi, was there, unexpectedly meeting Hei Fengxi in the process.

Episode 7 Recap

Yu Wuyuan, who was on his way to Jizhou to meet Huang Chao, diverted his journey to King Ma's castle upon hearing that Bai Fengxi was there. He was keen to meet the "world's oddest woman" Huang Chao had so highly praised. Bai Fengxi, who had long admired Yu Wuyuan, was surprised by their unexpected meeting. Hei Fengxi observed their pleasant conversation, occasionally interjecting with wry comments about Bai Fengxi's talkativeness, even when injured.

He then informed Bai Fengxi that he had already sent people to ensure the safety of her master, Bai Jiande, and the other Tianshuang Sect disciples. Grateful for Hei Fengxi's foresight, Bai Fengxi invited Yu Wuyuan to join them. As they journeyed, Bai Fengxi continued to praise Yu Wuyuan, highlighting his ethereal nature and his benevolent approach to the world, contrasting him sharply with Hei Fengxi, whom she playfully accused of constantly scheming against everyone.

She then casually mentioned that she had arranged to meet Yu Wuyuan on Mount Tianzhi the following day, a revelation that clearly unsettled Hei Fengxi. The next morning, Hei Fengxi encountered Yu Wuyuan, who possessed a delicate pearl hairpin. Hei Fengxi, seeing the item, questioned if it was for a sweetheart, to which Yu Wuyuan replied it was for a recently made friend—Bai Fengxi.

Hei Fengxi sarcastically advised against giving it to her, claiming she would merely trade it for wine. Yu Wuyuan, however, acknowledged that both he and Hei Fengxi deeply understood Bai Fengxi's carefree spirit. As Yu Wuyuan prepared to depart for Mount Tianzhi, Hei Fengxi issued a veiled warning, asking, "Why can't the Empyrean Yu Family live as long as heaven?" —a pointed reference to the Yu family's curse of not living past thirty.

When Bai Fengxi met Yu Wuyuan on Mount Tianzhi, she first thanked him for his crucial intervention at King Ma's castle and for arranging for Jizhou's garrison to protect the Ma family while pursuing the Soultaker Sect. She then challenged him to a duel, explaining that Huang Chao had ranked Yu Wuyuan as the first person he couldn't defeat, and her as merely the second. Refusing to be second to anyone, she sought to prove her prowess.

Yu Wuyuan, amused and impressed, remarked that only a woman of Bai Fengxi's unique spirit could earn such a high compliment from Huang Chao and provoke Hei Fengxi's subtle threats. As they considered each other friends, Bai Fengxi proposed a Qinggong contest across a lake, rather than a direct fight. Hei Fengxi, secretly observing from a distance, was visibly relieved that their meeting was a competition. The contest ended in a tie, with both landing on the opposite bank simultaneously.

Yu Wuyuan then bid her farewell, reflecting on how worldly ambitions ultimately pale in comparison to the simple joys of music and wine. Back at their lodging, Bai Fengxi's Martial Sister, Bai Langhua, remarked on the exciting world outside and the good care Hei Fengxi had arranged for their recovering master, Bai Jiande. Bai Langhua then playfully teased Bai Fengxi about having feelings for Hei Fengxi, causing Bai Fengxi to quickly cover her mouth and shush her.

At that moment, Bai Jiande entered, confirming his recovery and noting the temporary calm in the martial arts world following the Soultaker Sect's weakening. He announced his intention to visit an old friend nearby and instructed Bai Fengxi to lead their martial siblings back to the Tianshuang Sect, placing her in temporary charge of all sect affairs.

Meanwhile, in Yongzhou, Yong Wang issued a decree: Prince Chang was appointed to the Ministry of Civil Service Affairs, Prince Lanxi to the Ministry of Works, and Prince Ju as an adviser to the Ministry of Revenue. Feng Qiwu explained to her family elder that this was Yong Wang's cunning strategy to assess the three princes.

Given their varied origins—one as the eldest, one as the legitimate son of the first queen, and one whose mother was the current queen—the ultimate choice for Crown Prince would be based solely on their demonstrated wisdom and competence. Feng Qiwu visited Prince Lanxi, congratulating him on his new appointment. She informed him that Vice Minister Liu of the Ministry of Works, an ally of the Feng Family, would deliver all necessary documents to his residence by nightfall.

Feng Qiwu subtly suggested that Prince Ju's choice of the Ministry of Revenue, where his maternal uncle Minister Baili served, was a tactical misstep, as any success wouldn't be attributed to him, but any failure would greatly tarnish the Baili family's reputation. Hei Fengxi, in turn, requested Feng Qiwu's assistance for his elder brother, Prince Chang.

Despite Feng Qiwu's warning against emotional ties in the intense competition for the position of Crown Prince, Hei Fengxi firmly reiterated his unwavering loyalty and brotherly affection for Prince Chang, declaring that his only true adversary was Feng Ju. Feng Qiwu then pledged to keep Hei Fengxi informed of all future court developments.

On Hei Fengxi's first day overseeing the Ministry of Works, Prince Ju, accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Revenue, forcibly stormed into the premises, claiming to be acting on a verbal instruction from Yong Wang to audit the Ministry of Works' accounts. Minister Zheng Kui of the Ministry of Works was visibly agitated.

Under Hei Fengxi's stern questioning, Zheng Kui confessed that a hailstorm the previous year had severely damaged the Xuncheng city wall, for which the Ministry of Works was responsible. To avoid incurring Yong Wang's wrath, he had reluctantly misappropriated 500,000 silver leaves, funds specifically designated for the royal mausoleum. Prince Ju, confident in his alleged discovery, smugly demanded an explanation for the missing silver leaves.

Hei Fengxi calmly revealed that the large quantity of silver leaves had already been converted into silver notes for secure storage, effectively debunking Prince Ju's accusations. He then publicly exposed Prince Ju's false claim of a royal oral instruction, ordering his attendant Zhong Li to immediately verify the court records with the Eunuch Director of Brush-Writing. Faced with undeniable evidence and the threat of severe punishment for fabricating a royal decree, Prince Ju quickly recanted, labeling it a "misunderstanding."

However, Minister Zheng Kui, seizing the strategic advantage, declared his intention to formally report Prince Ju's actions to Yong Wang to clear the Ministry of Works' name, and Hei Fengxi agreed to join him. In court, the ministers vociferously condemned Prince Ju for his arrogant fabrication of a royal decree and his attempt to frame an entire ministry. Yong Wang, though protective of his son, was compelled to address the situation.

Hei Fengxi, ever strategic, suggested a lenient punishment for the "young and error-prone" Prince Ju, but advocated for severe consequences for Minister Baili Heng, Prince Ju's maternal uncle and head of the Ministry of Revenue. Hei Fengxi argued that Minister Baili was not only derelict in his duties by allowing inter-ministerial conflict but also malicious in fueling discord between the legitimate son of the first queen (himself) and the son of the second queen (Prince Ju).

With widespread ministerial agreement, Yong Wang decreed that Minister Baili Heng be demoted to governor of Jiangzhou, and Prince Ju be removed from the Ministry of Revenue, confined to his residence for reflection, and fined 5,000 silver. Immediately after, Hei Fengxi requested permission to lead a team from the Ministry of Works to Decheng to survey and repair the dykes on the rapidly swelling Lianjiang River. Yong Wang, commending his dedication to national affairs, readily approved.

Following the court session, ministers speculated on Hei Fengxi's profound cunning. They deduced that by seemingly going easy on Prince Ju while harshly punishing Minister Baili, Hei Fengxi had effectively weakened the Queen's faction. They also realized his strategic request to leave the capital for Decheng was a move to preempt any immediate nomination for the position of Crown Prince, showcasing his long-term brilliance.

That evening, Prince Chang visited Hei Fengxi, complaining that he wasn't told in advance about the confrontation, thus missing the chance to see Prince Ju's defeat. Hei Fengxi insisted that Prince Ju brought the trouble upon himself. Later, he and Zhong Li discussed the urgency of addressing the flood, prioritizing it over further conflict with Prince Ju.

Bai Fengxi and her martial siblings embarked on a journey back to the Tianshuang Sect via waterway, a route chosen by Bai Fengxi at Xiu Jiurong’s request so that Bai Langhua, who had not been out of the mountains for a long time, could experience more of the world. However, Bai Fengxi suffered severe seasickness on the turbulent Lianjiang River, known for its "three feet waves on windless days."

Xiu Jiurong thoughtfully provided tangerine oil for her, prompting a jealous reaction from Bai Langhua. Bai Fengxi, noticing Bai Langhua's feelings for Xiu Jiurong, encouraged her martial sister to express herself openly, embracing the straightforward spirit of martial artists. Meanwhile, Hei Fengxi, accompanied by Vice Minister Liu, was surveying the dykes in Decheng along the treacherous Lianjiang River. Their boat was suddenly attacked by assassins, who deliberately damaged the deck, causing the vessel to capsize amidst the turbulent waters.

News of the incident reached Prince Ju's residence. His subordinate confessed to having orchestrated the attack independently, believing it would please Prince Ju after his recent humiliation. Prince Ju, however, was enraged, emphatically stating that despite their rivalry, he had never intended to take his brother's life. Realizing the gravity of the situation, he immediately ordered a return to the capital to avoid arousing his father’s suspicion.

Back in the palace, Yong Wang was distraught by the news of Hei Fengxi's disappearance, mobilizing all troops from Decheng for a search. On the Lianjiang River, Bai Fengxi spotted an unconscious Hei Fengxi clinging to driftwood. Despite the treacherous current, she bravely plunged into the water to rescue him, knowing he had a severe fear of water. She found him unresponsive, his lungs damaged from the cold water.

As she tended to him, a feverish Hei Fengxi, in his delirium, tightly grasped her hand and murmured, "Don't leave me, Mother." This raw display of vulnerability deeply affected Bai Fengxi, revealing a fragile side to the usually calculating "Black Foxy."

Episode 8 Recap

Bai Fengxi urged Hei Fengxi to drink his medicine gently, promising him candied figs if he complied. Hei Fengxi, shivering and feeling cold, mumbled "Huan Niang, close the windows" in his feverish state. Curious about this "Huan Niang" but prioritizing his health, Bai Fengxi embraced him to warm him up. The next morning, Hei Fengxi woke to find Bai Fengxi asleep beside him, realizing she had held him all night. He quickly feigned sleep as she stirred.

Bai Fengxi, initially flustered, quickly reassured herself that her actions were to save a life, thus her conscience was clear. She felt relieved when his fever had finally broken, joking that he would have ended up "brain damaged" otherwise. Hei Fengxi sincerely thanked her for saving him. When Bai Fengxi offered to cook, Hei Fengxi, in his usual demanding manner, requested a luxurious meal of Qinzhou millet broth with bird's nest.

Bai Fengxi sarcastically told him to ask "Huan Niang" for such delicacies but nevertheless went to prepare noodles. The simple meal brought back memories of his late mother, who used to cook noodles for him on his birthday, a tradition in the Dadong Empire.

Hei Fengxi revealed his difficult past: after his mother's death, his stepmother constantly tried to harm him to secure the family's wealth, leading him to only trust food prepared by his loyal servants, Zhong Li and Chuanyu. He explained that Huan Niang was a long-time personal servant who had attended to him since childhood, a detail Bai Fengxi dismissed outwardly but secretly delighted in.

Meanwhile, news reached Feng Qiwu that the bodies of the boat scuttlers, who caused Feng Lanxi's disappearance, were found to be men from Prince Chang's manor. Feng Qiwu immediately dismissed Prince Chang's involvement, arguing that his relationship with Feng Lanxi was strong, and he would never use his own men for such a crime. She suspected Prince Ju was the one who stood to gain from this conflict.

She dispatched agents to investigate Prince Ju, vowing to gather enough evidence for Feng Lanxi's defense before his return. Prince Chang, summoned by the King, vehemently denied the accusations, calling it a blatant frame-up orchestrated by someone who benefited most from Feng Lanxi's demise. The King, however, ordered Prince Chang to prove his innocence within seven days by either finding Feng Lanxi or the true culprit, lamenting that his children were reliving the same power struggles he experienced years ago.

Away from court, Ren Rusong was distraught over Feng Lanxi's disappearance, blaming himself and tirelessly continuing the search. Prince Chang, too, was anxious, hoping his brother would be found alive. After sleeping for ten hours, Hei Fengxi was woken by Bai Fengxi, who gently urged him to take his medicine, reiterating her promise of candied figs once they disembarked. As they approached Longtou Port, Bai Fengxi agreed to dock the boat for supplies and rest for her martial siblings.

At the local market, she playfully forced a brown sugar bun into Hei Fengxi’s mouth, claiming it was for "blood replenishment." Hei Fengxi then led her to the House of Jade, a known outpost for the Fountain Abode. He exchanged coded phrases with the proprietor and sent a message back to the capital of Yongzhou, indicating his imminent return.

He also presented Bai Fengxi with a beautiful dress made of snow twill and personally adorned her hair with a delicate hairpin, playfully warning her not to sell it for wine. He also taught her the Fountain Abode's password for future emergencies. In Jizhou, Yu Wuyuan met with Huang Chao, who, uncharacteristically, inquired extensively about Bai Fengxi, rather than pressing matters of state.

Yu Wuyuan deduced Huang Chao's growing affection for her, though Huang Chao merely stated he found her "interesting." Huang Chao then sought Yu Wuyuan's expertise to verify the Empyrean Token, which was confirmed to be a fake. Suspicious of a swap, Huang Chao mentioned Hei Fengxi's presence on Mount Xuan and his rescue of Bai Fengxi, but Yu Wuyuan confidently asserted Hei Fengxi's innocence in the token's tampering.

Back in the capital, Feng Ju grew increasingly nervous as the King showed leniency towards Prince Chang, fearing the investigation might expose him. He instructed his subordinate, Wang Yuan, to quickly find a body to present as Feng Lanxi's. Wang Yuan soon found a corpse that, despite some bloating, matched Feng Lanxi's distinctive red mole on his elbow and calluses on his hand from writing, as well as his general physique.

Feng Ju then publicly declared his brother's death and arranged for Buddhist rituals to show his "grief." The King, believing Feng Lanxi's survival was unlikely, ordered a reduction in search efforts. Feng Qiwu, however, strongly opposed this, warning that it would confirm public rumors of the King's favoritism towards Prince Ju and lead people to believe Feng Ju murdered his brother to secure the title of Heir.

She proposed that the King himself preside over the upcoming Guanyin's Birthday rituals at Guanyin's Temple to demonstrate his impartial love for his children. The other ministers agreed. The King privately noted that Feng Ju's recent displays of devotion were too overt, clearly designed to appear innocent. Hei Fengxi received a message from the capital, confirming both good and bad news. His father seemed unconcerned by his disappearance, but his elder brother genuinely grieved.

His loyal aides, Chuanyun and Chuanyu, and the Fountain Abode remained steadfast. The bad news was the culprit was indeed his half-brother, Feng Ju. At the same time, Feng Qiwu received a secret letter from the House of Jade, confirming Hei Fengxi was alive, bringing immense relief. Suddenly, Bai Langhua, Bai Fengxi's martial sister, fell ill with enteric fever, unable to adjust to the climate. Bai Fengxi managed to stabilize her but acknowledged the need for a physician.

Hei Fengxi suggested they travel to the capital of Yongzhou, where he could arrange for the best doctors and temporary lodging until Bai Langhua recovered. Bai Fengxi readily agreed. Thanks to the timely treatment, Bai Langhua's life was saved, though Bai Fengxi spent most of her remaining silver leaves on the expensive medicine. Upon reaching Yongzhou, Feng Qiwu immediately met with Hei Fengxi.

She reported that Prince Ju, convinced of Hei Fengxi's death, had conspired with Wang Yuan to present a fake corpse to solidify the news. Hei Fengxi acknowledged Wang Yuan as the main instigator, explaining that Feng Ju kept Wang Yuan by his side precisely because of his ambition and willingness to take risks, making him a convenient scapegoat. He concluded that Feng Ju's cunning calculations were no less intricate than Baili's, implying that his younger brother was far more complex and dangerous than he appeared.

Episode 9 Recap

Feng Lanxi, speaking with Feng Qiwu, revealed his shrewd analysis of Feng Ju's character. He noted Feng Ju's treachery, observing that the mastermind of the plot was Wang Yuan, whom Feng Ju kept by his side due to his reckless and opportunistic nature. Feng Lanxi believed that Feng Ju's cunning allowed him to easily absolve himself, even if their father uncovered the truth.

He recognized that Feng Ju was cleverly playing a role, just as he himself does, and "must not be underestimated." Feng Lanxi sincerely thanked Feng Qiwu for her assistance during his dire circumstances. Feng Qiwu affirmed that her family traditionally supports only future rulers, expressing her honor in his trust and unwavering confidence in his strategic and military prowess, stating that none other than he could ascend the throne.

She acknowledged her initial failure to recognize his true talent and offered the Feng family’s complete loyalty and support, to which Feng Lanxi confirmed they were already his trusted allies. Feng Lanxi then decided that after surviving such a great catastrophe, it was time to finally meet his father. Believing Feng Lanxi to be dead, the King performed solemn rites, lamenting his son, a sophisticated and intelligent prince born to his first queen, who was lost to a tragic accident.

He prayed earnestly for his safe return. Feng Ju, feigning deep sorrow, offered a substantial donation of rice for prayers, earning praise from onlookers who noted his apparent devotion compared to Prince Chang's absence. Just as a disfigured body was presented, believed to be Feng Lanxi's, Ren Rusong burst in with news that Feng Lanxi was alive, saved by fishermen, and had returned to his residence.

The King, visibly enraged by the conflicting information, immediately ordered Feng Ju to thoroughly investigate the identity of the mysterious body. Later, the King visited Feng Lanxi, feigning concern for his health and assigning a physician to his residence. He promised generous rewards for Feng Lanxi’s public service. Feng Lanxi, however, thanked his father but requested that justice be served, not just rewards, and that those who harmed him be severely punished.

He subtly hinted that his leads pointed to Feng Ju but expressed reluctance to directly accuse a sibling. The King grew furious, accusing Feng Lanxi of being more concerned with plotting against his brother immediately after returning than informing his father of his survival, labeling it "deceiving your lord." Feng Lanxi asserted that his investigation was not slander and would uncover definitive proof, reminding his father that "the laws of the family and the nation" stood above familial ties.

The King, enraged, dismissed Feng Lanxi, ordering him to rest in his residence and promising "an explanation." The King, reflecting privately, knew that someone close to Feng Ju had orchestrated the attack on Feng Lanxi, even if Feng Ju himself might not have been fully aware. He acknowledged Feng Lanxi's defiant words were justified, admitting his own past mistreatment of the prince. To prevent deeper family divisions, he ordered Yuan Lu to draft two imperial decrees.

Meanwhile, Feng Lanxi, having returned to his residence, thanked his master for managing affairs in Yongzhou during his absence, and his master credited Feng Lanxi's strategy with cornering Feng Ju. Feng Lanxi then inquired if the Tianshuang Sect members were settled, to which Ren Rusong expressed surprise that Bai Fengxi was in the capital. Feng Lanxi credited her with saving his life, stating that without her, he wouldn't have survived.

Despite Ren Rusong's personal reservations about Bai Fengxi, he conceded her vital role. The King subsequently issued a decree, enfeoffing Feng Lanxi as Prince Yongping, allowing him to establish his own office, and granting him remote governance over Jincheng and Dangcheng with 5,000 households. The decree also appointed Ren Chuanyun as General of Agile Cavalry, commanding the Qinglin Army, and Ren Chuanyu as Commandant Guoyong.

Yuan Lu then conveyed a personal message from the King to Feng Lanxi: "Between a subject and his lord, the law of the nation is paramount. Between a father, son, and brother, family comes first. May Prince Yongping remember those words always." Feng Lanxi understood. Feng Ju sought refuge at Mount Ning Temple.

His mother, Baili, confronted him, slapping him and scolding him for hiding in a temple after Feng Lanxi's safe return, interpreting his actions as a blatant display of guilt. She reminded him of her strenuous efforts at Mount Ning to secure the support of Uncle Ning, Marquis Xun'an, for his claim to the heirship. Yet, Feng Ju's blunder led to Feng Lanxi being granted the title of Prince Yongping.

She advised him to accept defeat, deeming it "easier than facing death," and stressed her ultimate ambition for him: not just to surpass Feng Lanxi, but to eventually "sit on the throne your father sits on someday." With Wang Yuan now dead, Baili, questioning Feng Ju's judgment in selecting aides, assigned Li Jiaxian, whom she described as more cautious than Wang Yuan, to assist Feng Ju. She then prepared to return to the palace.

Unbeknownst to Baili, Li Jiaxian was actually Feng Ju’s trusted operative, strategically placed in his mother’s retinue. Feng Ju considered Wang Yuan, Baili's former confidant, an obstacle, and Feng Lanxi's plot had inadvertently facilitated Wang Yuan's demise, allowing Li Jiaxian to return to his side. Feng Ju acknowledged his mother's ambition for him to become the heir but dismissed it, viewing himself as a mere "puppet" while his father remained in power.

He revealed his understanding that his father perceived him as a "good-for-nothing who only obeys my mother," a perception he actively cultivated and intended to escalate by behaving even more "peevishly." His ultimate goal was to provoke Feng Lanxi into revealing his true capabilities, thereby shifting their father's "animosity" towards Feng Lanxi, allowing Feng Ju to "sit back and watch the tigers fight" and ultimately usurp the throne.

The Dadong Emperor and Crown Prince Jing Yan discussed their strategy regarding the Empyrean Token, which was never truly lost but strategically reported missing to incite conflict among the Six States, aiming to weaken them. Jing Yan confirmed that the plan was progressing as anticipated, noting how one of the "fake" tokens had fallen into Jizhou’s hands, and expressing satisfaction at Jizhou’s weakening. The Emperor lauded "that man's" (their strategist's) cunning.

However, an urgent report arrived from Jizhou, stating their intention to return the Empyrean Token. The Emperor's expression darkened, and when Jing Yan questioned their next move, the Emperor declared he would issue a decree summoning the Six States to a "Six States banquet" in the palace to express gratitude to Jizhou for returning the token, and he would personally welcome them.

Feng Ju approached Feng Chang, subtly trying to sow discord by highlighting Feng Lanxi’s new title as Prince Yongping, implying Feng Chang would now have to bow to his younger brother. He provocatively recounted how Feng Lanxi had been safe all along but "refused to show up, leaving you there trying to find him in the rain and sun, without a single message," questioning if Feng Lanxi reciprocated Feng Chang's fraternal loyalty. Feng Chang was clearly bothered by these words.

Later, Feng Chang visited Feng Lanxi at his residence, playfully chiding him for the formal greeting, saying it would "shorten my life." Feng Lanxi countered, suggesting Feng Ju was behind Feng Chang's discontent, to which Feng Chang acknowledged Feng Lanxi’s insight into Feng Ju but pointed out Feng Lanxi’s seeming lack of understanding of their own bond.

Feng Chang then reminded Feng Lanxi not to dwell on Wang Yuan’s death, especially after receiving his new title, to avoid further displeasing their father. He also cautioned Feng Lanxi about the complete breakdown in his relationship with Feng Ju and the impending return of Baili, advising extreme caution. Feng Chang also expressed concern that Feng Lanxi "keeps too much to himself" and urged him to prioritize his health.

Feng Lanxi thanked him for his concern, informed him that a gift had been sent to his residence as a token of his appreciation, and reassured him that "no matter what happens, I will always be the younger brother that grew up with you." Hei Fengxi arrived at Bai Fengxi's temporary residence, noting his "mean-spiritedness is back," signifying that his family matters were resolved. He invited her for an outing, which she initially hesitated about due to her cooking duties.

However, Zhong Li confirmed he had already arranged for food delivery and would assist in her absence. They embarked on their first outing in the capital of Yongzhou, a moment that filled Hei Fengxi with joy. As they strolled, they encountered Feng Qiwu, prompting Hei Fengxi to quickly pull Bai Fengxi into hiding to avoid being recognized.

Feng Qiwu's maid briefly mistook Hei Fengxi’s back for that of the Second Prince, but Feng Qiwu swiftly dismissed the notion, stating the Second Prince would never "hold hands with a girl in the street." Bai Fengxi, still unaware of Hei Fengxi’s true identity, playfully teased him about his aristocratic aloofness. They then came across a stunning flower sea, which an elderly vendor proudly announced was personally designed by "the Second Prince, Lanxi," describing him as the "Gentry of Elegance."

Bai Fengxi praised Lanxi’s elegance and taste, prompting Hei Fengxi to jealously ask if he wasn't elegant. Bai Fengxi elaborated on the profound difference between them, remarking, "A character makes a world of difference," and quoting poetry about the steadfast nature of orchids. Hei Fengxi then sat down and personally sketched Bai Fengxi's portrait, drawing praise from a local artist.

Later, seeing a child about to fall into the river while chasing a ball, Bai Fengxi swiftly rescued him but twisted her ankle in the process. Hei Fengxi, chiding her for her recklessness, carried her back to her residence. Upon their arrival, Zhong Li reminded Hei Fengxi it was time to leave. Hei Fengxi reluctantly bid farewell, forgetting his finished portrait, which Bai Fengxi then retrieved.

Feng Lanxi anticipated Baili's return to the palace, seeing it as an opportunity to observe her forthcoming strategies. Feng Qiwu, however, expressed concern about Baili’s "guileful and resourceful" methods, fearing she might attempt to harm Feng Lanxi during the official welcome. Indeed, Baili made a grand, calculated entrance. She arrived at the palace gates dressed plainly, eschewing her royal carriage, and walking alongside a group of flood victims she claimed to be aiding.

She informed the King that she had vowed to make the arduous journey on foot if Feng Lanxi returned safely, presenting this act of humility and compassion as a means to curry public favor and subtly pressure the King. Feng Lanxi, however, subtly questioned her claim, recalling her previous leg injury. The King, apparently placated, hurried her into the palace.

Once inside, Baili seized another opportunity, reporting to the King that during a recent encounter with "the wife of our clan leader" at Yutan Stream, she learned that the King's late mother was a descendant of the Xiao family from the previous dynasty. She further added that an updated genealogy register would soon arrive in the capital. The King, seemingly pleased by this revelation, then urged Feng Lanxi to publicly honor Baili for her "filial piety."

Episode 10 Recap

Upon his mother Baili's return, the Yong King advised Feng Lanxi to show filial piety, emphasizing Yongzhou's tradition of valuing respect for elders. He instructed Feng Lanxi to honor Baili by holding the whip for her carriage. However, Princess Feng Qiwu stepped forward to challenge the security arrangements. She criticized General Sun Mingyang, the queen's escort, for not sufficiently protecting the queen, especially given the ongoing turmoil in the Six States and Prince Yongping's (Feng Lanxi's) recent assassination attempt.

She argued that Sun Mingyang should face public flagellation. The Yong King deemed this too severe and instead ordered a three-year confiscation of Sun Mingyang's salary. Feng Qiwu then targeted Vice Minister Yang of the Ministry of Rites for the security lapse. Agreeing that the Queen's actions were inappropriate, the King then ordered Feng Lanxi to proceed with the gesture of reverence for his mother.

Chuanyun observed the Yong King's unusual delight upon hearing that Baili's mother was descended from the Xiao family. Ren Rusong explained that the King's own mother was a palace maid, meaning he would never have ascended the throne had the previous heir not died. He noted that Queen Baili's cunning far surpassed that of Feng Ju, warning that Feng Lanxi would likely face more hardship now that Baili had returned.

Later, the Yong King privately confronted Baili, accusing Feng Ju of attempting to harm his brother. He admonished Baili and Feng Ju to be obedient and avoid causing further trouble. The King explained that having Feng Lanxi publicly honor Baili was meant to project an image of a harmonious royal family to the world, warning that internal strife would leave Yongzhou vulnerable to the other Five States.

He also urged Baili to show more care for Feng Chang, his eldest son. Meanwhile, Feng Chang was consumed by sadness, feeling that his mother Baili had not even given him a glance, preferring instead to play the role of a loving mother to Feng Lanxi. He sought solace in drinking at the House of Jade, where the shopkeeper, seeing he hadn't revealed his royal identity, decided to dilute his wine.

Feng Ju, summoned by his mother, faced Baili’s reprimand for his recent failures. Baili revealed her deep understanding of the Yong King's true nature: his low birth led to his disdain for the late Queen Yige and her son Feng Lanxi, yet his ultimate desires were power and glory.

She cautioned Feng Ju that while the King had tolerated his attempts to overshadow Feng Lanxi, he disapproved of direct threats to Feng Lanxi's life, as Feng Lanxi was still the King's legitimate son by the first queen. Baili suggested that if others carried out the elimination of Feng Lanxi, they would remain blameless. Bai Fengxi, facing financial difficulties, tried to pawn some items but was offered very little.

She refused to part with a hairpin gifted by Hei Fengxi, which reminded her of his earlier offer: she could acquire anything up to a thousand silver leaves from any House of Jade branch. She promptly went to the House of Jade to request fifty silver leaves. There, she encountered Prince Feng Chang suffering an epileptic seizure. She quickly and discreetly helped him.

Before leaving, she assured the shopkeeper she would not speak of his condition and advised getting him a physician. A flashback revealed young Feng Chang's traumatic past, tormented by severe epileptic seizures. His birth mother, Baili, cruelly called him a "monster" and a "bastard," fearing his condition would jeopardize her standing and the child in her womb.

The young Feng Chang desperately sought his mother's affection, but she relentlessly rejected him, leaving him heartbroken despite the comforting words of his loyal Uncle De. Back in the present, Feng Chang, upon regaining consciousness, realized he had suffered another episode. His subordinate reported that all maids and servants who had witnessed the incident at the House of Jade had been "dealt with" to protect his secret.

Feng Chang, remembering the lady in white who had helped him (Bai Fengxi), ordered his men to find and eliminate her as well. Later, Hei Fengxi found Bai Fengxi asleep while grinding herbs for Langhua. Bai Fengxi explained that she refused to pay for the grinding, doing it herself instead. She expressed her exhaustion from being the acting leader of the Tianshuang Sect and marveled at how Hei Fengxi managed the vast Fountain Abode so efficiently.

Hei Fengxi offered to teach her his management skills in exchange for a bowl of her special ship noodles. Bai Fengxi joyfully prepared the noodles, which Hei Fengxi savored. Feng Qiwu approached Feng Lanxi, now officially Prince Yongping, to discuss their impending marriage. She boldly proposed that if he would formally ask for her hand, she would guarantee him a life free of worries.

Feng Lanxi politely declined, stating that he refused to be a man who relied on his wife's family for power. Feng Qiwu countered that after publicly defying the Queen, she was now reliant on him. Feng Lanxi reiterated his indifference to romantic entanglements and his reluctance to waste her life, claiming his heart belonged solely to the world. He promised that while he couldn't offer marriage, the Feng family would retain its influential position, second to none.

Feng Qiwu, though disappointed, acknowledged his ambition and renewed her pledge of loyalty, vowing to help him ascend to the position of heir. She mused that only Feng Lanxi could treat her so coldly, and if he had yielded easily, he wouldn't be the man she knew. Back at Prince Yongping's residence, Miss Huan, reviewing the accounts from House of Jade, found records of purchases for Snow Cloud Gauze garments and a Lunar Headdress—items exclusively for women.

Convinced it was a mistake since the residence housed no women, she ordered the invoice to be returned. Feng Qiwu, overhearing, volunteered to return the invoice herself, intending to discover for whom Feng Lanxi, who claimed to be uninterested in romance, had purchased such feminine items. At House of Jade, the shopkeeper cleverly dismissed the invoice as a forgery, a common scam to defraud wealthy households, thus protecting Hei Fengxi's secret.

Meanwhile, a homing pigeon sent to Bai Fengxi's master returned with the message undelivered. Worried about her master's safety, Bai Fengxi returned to the House of Jade, asking the shopkeeper to relay a message to Hei Fengxi, requesting to meet him there the next day at noon. In Jizhou, Huang Chao and Yu Wuyuan discussed the plan to return the (fake) Empyrean Token to the Emperor.

Yu Wuyuan explained that the Emperor would either reward Jizhou, inadvertently making it a target for the other five states, or, more likely, accuse Huang Chao of possessing a fake token. He reasoned that the Emperor benefits from the chaos caused by the missing token, so accepting the return of any token, even a fake one, would restore a semblance of order and ultimately benefit Huang Chao's grander ambitions for a unified world.

Suddenly, Princess Huang Yu, Huang Chao's sister, emerged, revealing she had been eavesdropping. She playfully complained that Yu Wuyuan hadn't visited her since his return and demanded his company before he departed for the Imperial City with her brother the next day. She then passionately played the zither for Yu Wuyuan, who admitted it stirred old memories. When Huang Yu pressed if it was the music or her that moved him, Yu Wuyuan gently rejected her affections.

He explained that his heart already belonged to another and cited the Empyrean Yu family's curse of not living past thirty, which prevented him from reciprocating her feelings. Despite the rejection, Huang Yu defiantly told her brother that she would continue to confess her love for Yu Wuyuan for every year he lived and would never marry another man. Huang Chao, trying to comfort her, offered her favorite osmanthus cakes. Later that evening, as Bai Fengxi left the House of Jade, she was ambushed by assassins who declared they were there to take her life.

Episode 11 Recap

Bai Fengxi was ambushed by a group of black-clad assailants who declared their intention to kill her. Before the fight could escalate, Hei Fengxi appeared, forcing the attackers to retreat. Bai Fengxi noted that these attackers did not seem to be from the Soultaker Sect, and Hei Fengxi promised to investigate the matter thoroughly. He told her he had rushed over upon hearing of her plight and suggested they go to House of Jade.

Meanwhile, Prince Chang was furious to learn of the assassination's failure. His subordinate explained that Bai Fengxi possessed exceptional martial arts and was saved by someone who appeared to be Prince Yongping. Disbelieving, Prince Chang was informed that Bai Fengxi resided in Pagoda Tree Alley. He immediately ordered more men to be sent, declaring that Bai Fengxi must not be allowed to live, and insisted on joining the operation himself.

Uncle De watched Prince Chang's ruthless resolve, silently lamenting that after more than two decades, Queen Baili remained as heartless as ever, still refusing to acknowledge Prince Chang. He recalled a scene from Prince Chang's childhood where Baili, after marrying the King, dismissed the young Prince Chang as clumsy and frail, suggesting he be nominally mothered by a palace maid.

This memory fueled young Prince Chang's determination to become the Heir and inherit his father's legacy, believing it would force Baili to acknowledge him. At House of Jade, Hei Fengxi assured Bai Fengxi that his Fountain Abode network was already investigating her master's whereabouts. He then ordered food, suggesting she dine with him as he assisted her.

During their meal, when a bug landed on Bai Fengxi’s shoulder, Hei Fengxi reached out to catch it, and Bai Fengxi reflexively grabbed his hand. This caused him to blush profoundly and his pulse to race, prompting him to abruptly excuse himself, feigning drunkenness. Bai Fengxi, amused by his reaction, secretly found his smile charming. Later, on her way back home, Bai Fengxi was once again cornered by the same black-clad assailants.

Annoyed and unwilling to fight, she tried to disengage, only to encounter Prince Chang in an alley. While she found him vaguely familiar, she couldn't place him. Prince Chang, dagger hidden, intended to strike but hesitated when Bai Fengxi failed to recognize him, deciding to observe her further to determine if she was truly ignorant or merely pretending. Bai Fengxi, however, had already surmised that Prince Chang wanted to eliminate her to conceal his illness.

Knowing she had martial siblings to protect, she chose to feign ignorance rather than provoke him further. During a morning court session, the King of Yong discussed Jizhou's intent to return the Empyrean Token and the upcoming Six States banquet in the Imperial City, seeking advice on who to send as Yong's representative. Minister Wang suggested Prince Chang, as the eldest, should represent Yong.

Another minister, however, argued that Prince Chang was not the legitimate son, and Prince Lanxi, though legitimate, was frail. He proposed Prince Ju as the most suitable candidate. The King then asked Prince Ju if he was willing to go to the Imperial City, to which Prince Ju readily agreed. Later, Queen Baili explained to Prince Ju that this assignment was a consequence of his past foolish actions, which had disappointed the King.

She advised him to use the trip to clear his head, stating she would handle matters in Yongzhou. Prince Ju expressed concern about missing the upcoming royal examination, which he saw as a significant opportunity, but Baili dismissed it as an ill-timed venture for him. Subsequently, Feng Qiwu met with Feng Lanxi to discuss the royal examination. She revealed that she had visited Senior Secretary Pei Youshuo, her former teacher and a long-time friend of her father, securing his support.

She presented Feng Lanxi with a list of three highly talented candidates recommended by Pei Youshuo, emphasizing the importance of consolidating his influence in court now that he held the title of Prince Yongping. Feng Lanxi noted the absence of Feng Shiying's name.

Feng Qiwu assured him that as her brother and a member of the Feng family, Feng Shiying was already firmly on his side, and Pei Youshuo would personally ensure the three recommended candidates also pledged their loyalty to Feng Lanxi. Ren Rusong's subordinates reported to Feng Lanxi on Bai Fengxi's activities in Yongzhou, noting a potential incident at House of Jade where Prince Chang was also present and seemed unwell.

Feng Lanxi deduced that the black-clad assailants were Prince Chang's men. Prince Chang continued to trail Bai Fengxi. Noticing his presence, Bai Fengxi approached him, teasingly asking if he was seeking compensation for being left alone the previous night. Prince Chang attempted to trick her with a fabricated story of a fatal illness, claiming a physician had advised him to consume a "bloody steamed bun" for survival, and asked her for help.

Bai Fengxi, however, promptly checked his pulse and debunked his story, assuring him he was perfectly healthy. Instead of the "bloody steamed bun," she offered him a regular bun, which he accepted. The simple gesture evoked a poignant flashback of his late mother giving him a bun, leaving him momentarily lost in thought. Still uncertain if Bai Fengxi was truly ignorant or pretending, Prince Chang instructed Uncle De to rent a nearby courtyard to keep her under constant surveillance.

Meanwhile, the King of Yong decreed that the royal examination would take place on the ninth of the month, with Senior Secretary Pei Youshuo, Duke Liang Yan Shizhang, and Minister Wang Liangde as joint invigilators. It was widely understood that this arrangement favored Prince Ju, as Duke Liang's daughter, Yan, a female official under Queen Baili, was widely expected to marry Prince Ju.

Feng Lanxi, however, found Queen Baili's decision to send Prince Ju away from Yongzhou at this critical time suspicious. He instructed Ren Rusong to convey a warning to Feng Qiwu to exercise extreme caution during the royal examination to prevent any missteps. Huang Chao, on his way to the Six States banquet with the Empyrean Token, was ambushed merely twenty li outside the Imperial City.

Emperor Chunxi immediately dispatched General Dong Shufang for rescue, but they arrived too late to prevent the token from being stolen. Upon hearing the news, Feng Lanxi surmised that the Empyrean Token was a fake, and Huang Chao had deliberately staged the attack to lose it. He explained to Ren Rusong that returning a fake token would only lead to trouble for Huang Chao, whereas losing it on the way would grant him a legitimate reason to investigate.

With the Emperor's decree, Huang Chao could now conduct investigations across the Six States with official authority, effectively making him a formidable force with Yu Wuyuan's counsel. In the Imperial City, Huang Chao bravely faced Emperor Chunxi and the other state heirs. He reported the attack and the loss of the Empyrean Token, clarifying that the assailants were cavalry, not martial artists, which sparked immediate accusations among the other heirs.

Volunteering to atone for his "failure," Huang Chao offered to investigate the matter himself, requesting a decree for easier action across the Six States. Emperor Chunxi, impressed, granted his request and bestowed upon him an Imperial Sword, allowing him to act with supreme authority. Yu Wuyuan confronted Huang Chao, expressing his anger at the altered plan.

He reminded Huang Chao that their original strategy involved martial artists stealing the token to spare Jizhou from disaster, not General Lin Lancang impersonating an assassin. Huang Chao, acknowledging Yu Wuyuan's desire for peace among the states, stated that such harmony was no longer possible. He emphasized that the Emperor's new decree made his path clearer, and challenged Yu Wuyuan to join him to see if diplomacy could truly avert conflict and unify the world.

Yu Wuyuan, realizing he had been maneuvered, agreed to accompany Huang Chao to the Six States, but only after they made a detour to Mount Wu. Before the royal examination, Minister Wang presented candidate Song Sihan to Queen Baili, referring to him as a significant gift for Prince Lanxi. On the day of the examination, Senior Secretary Pei Youshuo, Duke Liang Yan Shizhang, and Minister Wang Liangde presided.

During the inspection, a candidate named Wang Hui was caught attempting to smuggle notes in his inkstone. Pei Youshuo, emphasizing the examination's crucial role in selecting national talent and shaping individual destinies, ensured strict adherence to rules. Six candidates were found to have smuggled notes and were handed over to the Ministry of Justice before the examination papers were unsealed and the tests began. Feng Lanxi was summoned to an audience with the King and Queen Baili.

The King highlighted Baili's recent efforts praying and arranging matters for him after his near-drowning, urging Feng Lanxi to express his gratitude. Baili then observed Feng Lanxi's improved health and his new title as Prince Yongping, suggesting it was an opportune time to arrange his marriage. The King agreed, prompting Baili to propose her niece, Jing, as a suitable match.

Feng Lanxi respectfully declined, stating that as he had recently been granted his title and had yet to achieve significant accomplishments, a premature marriage would invite criticism from court ministers. Queen Baili probed further, suspecting his affections lay with Feng Qiwu. Feng Lanxi admitted to a good working relationship with Feng Qiwu, clarifying that his interactions were purely for the benefit of Yongzhou and devoid of personal feelings.

He reiterated his intention to defer marriage until he had established a solid foundation, leaving the final decision to his father. The King then said he would consider the matter. News of this exchange quickly reached Feng Qiwu. She understood that Queen Baili's questions were a deliberate attempt to test Feng Lanxi's allegiances and was satisfied with his artful response, which preempted any suspicion from the King.

Internally, Feng Qiwu acknowledged the political nature of her alliance with Feng Lanxi, affirming her primary loyalty to her family. Meanwhile, Zhong Li reflected on the subtle yet significant changes in Feng Lanxi since his near-drowning. He noted that Feng Lanxi, though still kind to his subordinates, had become noticeably more approachable and often smiled, a welcome transformation.

Hei Fengxi arranged for Zhong Li to deliver a large quantity of supplies, including charcoal, quilts, and food, to Bai Fengxi's residence, but he chose to wait for her at the alley entrance. Her martial siblings were overjoyed by the unexpected bounty. When Bai Fengxi met Hei Fengxi, she questioned why he didn't enter the courtyard.

He explained that as the acting leader of her sect, she was the one who needed to gain the loyalty of her followers, and the supplies were meant to help her earn their goodwill, not his. Bai Fengxi, impressed by his foresight, praised his ability to manage the vast Fountain Abode so effectively.

Hei Fengxi further informed her that his network had received intelligence indicating that her master, Bai Jiande, might have traveled to Mount Wu, a report he had already verified. This meant Bai Fengxi and her companions would likely need to extend their stay in Yongzhou. Anticipating the harsh southern winter, he had thoughtfully provided the supplies to ensure their comfort. Bai Fengxi, touched by his thoroughness and numerous favors, asked how she could repay him. Hei Fengxi dismissed it as a minor matter, playfully noting that her serious demeanor was uncharacteristic.

Episode 12 Recap

On the day of the royal examination, candidate Xu Yuxin was caught red-handed with a cheat sheet by the invigilator. Initially denying the accusation, Xu Yuxin confessed under interrogation that he did not smuggle the cheat sheet into the hall himself. Instead, he claimed a broker he met at Luming Inn, where many scholars were staying, sold him the cheat sheet.

This broker promised to place the cheat sheet directly onto the wall of his examination cell if Xu Yuxin provided his examination number plate. Xu Yuxin explained that he paid half the deposit as a trial and was shocked to find the cheat sheet indeed on his cell wall. This revelation shocked everyone present, indicating the biggest cheating case in Yongzhou's history, potentially implicating many in the palace.

Grand Academician Pei Youshuo, the chief examiner, ordered an immediate halt to the examination and a thorough search of all rooms. Cheat sheets were found in the cells of six other candidates, bringing the total number of implicated students to seven. All of them, including Feng Shiying, were taken into custody. Feng Qiwu quickly reported the incident to Feng Lanxi, who already knew about it. He recognized this as a difficult challenge orchestrated by Queen Baili, aimed at him.

If he protected Pei Youshuo, Baili would use the court officials to accuse him of forming factions and disregarding the law. If he did not protect Pei Youshuo, he risked alienating many esteemed elderly officials. Anticipating that the Yong King would order an investigation at the next morning court, Feng Lanxi instructed Feng Qiwu to help him secure this assignment.

Later, when the Yong King asked his aide Yuan Lu for his thoughts on this unprecedented cheating scandal, Yuan Lu pointed out that the core issue might not be just question leakage. He observed that the candidates' actual answers did not match the cheat sheets, with Feng Shiying and Song Sihan's answers being notably superior. Meanwhile, Bai Langhua, unable to contact her father, Bai Jiande, angrily confronted Bai Fengxi, accusing her of hiding information.

Bai Fengxi tried to reassure her martial sister, explaining that their Master was always careful and would be fine. She revealed that she had already asked Hei Fengxi to search for him and urged Bai Langhua to remain calm. However, their second martial brother, Gu Yu, interjected, accusing Bai Fengxi of secretly wishing for their Master's misfortune so she could become the sect leader.

He questioned her motives for keeping their Master's disappearance a secret, implying she had a guilty conscience. Bai Fengxi publicly declared that she never coveted the position of sect leader. When an agitated Bai Langhua insisted on leaving to find their father, Bai Fengxi had to temporarily immobilize her by striking her pressure points and asked Xiu Jiurong to help her back to her room.

Once the others left, Bai Fengxi, dismissing Gu Yu, stated that the Master would decide this matter upon his return and warned Gu Yu against causing further trouble, or she would disregard their fellow disciple bond. Unbeknownst to them, Bai Jiande had already arrived at Mount Wu, seeking Wang Shuilong of Wanjian Manor.

He learned from Wu Rui of the Diheng Branch that Wang Shuilong was also at Mount Wu, drawn by Old Taiyin's call to find an heir for his ultimate skill, Sacred Jade Moon. The next day at morning court, the Yong King was furious that such an absurd incident had occurred in his capital.

He questioned his officials' competence, calling them good-for-nothing cowards who would only bow their heads in guilt, forcing him to bear the shame of the cheating scandal before the entire realm. Feng Qiwu stepped forward, proposing that Prince Yongping (Feng Lanxi) handle the investigation. She reasoned that the royal examination was crucial for selecting talent for the royal family and the nation, making it essential for a royal family member to oversee such a sensitive and reputation-damaging case.

Since Prince Chang and Prince Ju lacked titles, Prince Yongping was the most suitable choice. Many ministers quickly seconded her proposal. Seizing the opportunity, Feng Lanxi agreed to relieve the King of his worries. The Yong King then commanded Feng Lanxi to thoroughly investigate the cheating case within seven days, working with the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Civil Service Affairs.

After the court session, the Yong King mused to Yuan Lu about why Feng Lanxi eagerly took on a task clearly designed to trap him, wondering if his son was genuinely foolish or merely pretending. He then summoned Zhang Zhongge, the Minister of Justice, to the palace. The King reminded Zhang Zhongge that despite Feng Lanxi leading the investigation, the cheating case remained under the purview of the Ministry of Justice.

He emphasized that Zhang Zhongge, his most trusted official, must step in when necessary to uphold the national law, especially given Feng Lanxi's inexperience. Meanwhile, Bai Langhua continued to be upset with Bai Fengxi over their father's disappearance. Bai Fengxi comforted her, admitting that she withheld the truth to prevent Bai Langhua's emotional distress from worsening her illness. She stressed that Tianshuang Sect was their Master's life's work and urged Bai Langhua to protect the sect with her.

Hei Fengxi personally interrogated Xu Yuxin, discovering that the cheat sheet was copied onto gold foil paper, a material exclusively used by court officials of Third Rank or higher, with records kept by the Ministry of Civil Service Affairs. He assigned Feng Qiwu to verify the whereabouts of these papers. Additionally, based on Xu Yuxin's description, an artist drew a portrait of the broker.

Later, the broker appeared at the Tianshuang Sect's residence, demanding twenty silver leaves from Gu Yu, who had initially borrowed only five. Gu Yu, having lost his money gambling at Xifeng Casino, refused Bai Fengxi's help. However, Bai Fengxi confronted the broker herself, offering to pay back the original five silver leaves. The broker, underestimating Bai Fengxi's combat skills, attempted to take advantage of her. Bai Fengxi easily subdued him and demanded the promissory note.

Just then, Hei Fengxi arrived with the broker's portrait, offering to handle the promissory note and sending Bai Fengxi back. Bai Fengxi was perplexed by Hei Fengxi's uncanny ability to appear whenever she was in trouble and his seamless access across Yongjing, making her question his true identity. The broker revealed that the promissory note was with Third Master Wu, a local ruffian who controlled Xifeng Casino and several brothels.

Hei Fengxi took the broker to the Ministry of Justice and pressured him to confess about selling examination questions, discovering he was acting under Third Master Wu's orders. Hei Fengxi then ordered his men to bring Third Master Wu in. Shortly after, Zhang Zhongge arrived at the Ministry of Justice, having just reported to the Yong King.

He informed Feng Lanxi that the King, concerned about his health, wanted him to return and rest, leaving the rest of the investigation to Zhang Zhongge. Feng Lanxi understood this as his father's subtle command, acknowledging he was caught in a power struggle. Instead of returning to his residence, Feng Lanxi went to Pagoda Tree Estate to find Bai Fengxi and personally delivered Gu Yu's promissory note.

The two playfully engaged in a game of Cuju in the courtyard, their lively match unexpectedly witnessed by Feng Chang, who had just moved into the adjacent courtyard. Feng Chang was stunned to see his supposedly frail younger brother displaying such agility and skill. While initially happy for Feng Lanxi's recovery, Feng Chang was left feeling disheartened and betrayed by his brother's continued secrecy. At the next court meeting, Feng Lanxi reported his findings to the Yong King.

Based on Third Master Wu’s confession, the answers were provided by the chief butler of Duke Liang's Residence, whom Feng Lanxi had personally interrogated. The butler confessed that Duke Liang had leaked the questions and instructed him to hand them over to Third Master Wu, who was to pretend to sell the examination papers.

Zhang Zhongge confirmed that of the seven candidates implicated, only three had genuinely bought the cheat sheets; the remaining four were framed, all of whom were disciples of Grand Academician Pei Youshuo. Furthermore, the gold foil paper found with the broker had handwriting matching Duke Liang's, and a corresponding gold foil paper was missing from Duke Liang's residence.

However, Minister Wang interjected, stating he possessed the "missing" gold foil paper, which was actually a letter from Duke Liang seeking a marriage proposal for his daughter, Yan, who served the Queen and grew up with Prince Ju. Minister Wang accused Feng Lanxi of falsely implicating Duke Liang to protect Pei Youshuo due to Feng Lanxi's close ties with Feng Qiwu, who was Pei Youshuo's student. He then pleaded with the Yong King to retry the case, an appeal echoed by several other ministers.

Episode 13 Recap

Prince Yongping, Feng Lanxi, was placed under house arrest for allegedly framing an important government official, and the cheating case was handed over to Zhang Zhongge for re-investigation. Under severe interrogation, candidate Song Sihan finally confessed that the original exam questions were personally written by Pei Youshuo. He admitted that the night before the examination, Pei Youshuo had sent his servants away to speak with four candidates and had personally inspected every examination room.

After confirming Pei Youshuo's suspected involvement in leaking the questions, King Yong ordered his imprisonment. Upon learning of this, Feng Qiwu was on her way to discuss countermeasures with the Second Prince, Feng Lanxi. Unexpectedly, Hei Fengxi, who is Feng Lanxi, arrived uninvited. He revealed that he had long known of Baili's scheme, noting that everything had proceeded too smoothly, almost as if pre-arranged.

Hei Fengxi explained that he knew Duke Liang was not the true leaker and had deliberately played along, feigning to fall into Baili's trap, all the while secretly investigating the real culprits. Believing Baili would now consider the matter settled and move to destroy evidence, Hei Fengxi instructed his subordinates to seize this opportunity to uncover the truth.

Meanwhile, Bai Fengxi received a letter from the House of Jade, informing her that her Master had originally gone to visit an old friend. Along the way, he had learned about Old Man Taiyin's search for a successor and had rerouted to Mount Wu to seek this opportunity. Since Old Man Taiyin had set up trials on Mount Wu, a carrier pigeon would naturally be unable to reach her Master due to Old Man Taiyin’s power.

Bai Langhua, upon hearing this, was eager to depart for Mount Wu immediately. However, Bai Fengxi urged her to recover fully in the capital of Yongzhou first, assuring her that her Master was safe. During his meal delivery to Feng Lanxi, Zhong Li revealed that the housekeeper of Duke Liang’s residence had been in frequent contact with someone from Lu Xiumu’s residence. Hei Fengxi immediately instructed Chuanyun and Chuanyu to discreetly monitor Lu’s residence for any new developments.

That same night, Feng Ju, acting on Baili's instructions, commanded his men to hire a killer to eliminate Lu Xiumu. Coincidentally, Gu Yu, unable to curb his gambling habit, encountered one of Feng Ju’s men. This individual not only paid off Gu Yu’s debts but also offered him a thousand silver leaves to assassinate Lu Xiumu.

Gu Yu, convinced by the fabricated story that Lu Xiumu was a corrupt official who caused the death of the man's parents, agreed to the killing. He then infiltrated Lu Xiumu's residence and fatally stabbed him. Before succumbing to his wounds, Lu Xiumu uttered the word "Mulan." Bai Fengxi, who had been following Gu Yu, arrived too late to stop him. She witnessed Gu Yu being apprehended by agents from the Fountain Abode.

Seeing these individuals entering and exiting Prince Yongping’s Residence, she connected the dots, realizing that "Hei Fengxi" of the Fountain Abode and "Feng Lanxi," the Second Prince of Yongzhou, were likely the same person. Bai Fengxi confronted Hei Fengxi about his dual identity. He admitted it, explaining that he had never intended to deceive her but had simply not found the right opportunity. Bai Fengxi firmly believed that Gu Yu was merely a pawn, manipulated into assassinating Lu Xiumu.

After hearing the full account of the cheating scandal, she lamented the perilous intrigues of the court, far surpassing the straightforward conflicts of the martial arts world. Just then, news arrived that Gu Yu had committed suicide by poison in prison before he could be interrogated. This development abruptly severed their lead. Determined to avenge her junior brother, Bai Fengxi resolved to join Hei Fengxi in investigating the true mastermind.

Examining the incriminating exam paper, Bai Fengxi noticed the royal seal was unusually faint. Using a technique she called the "Palm of Duplication," she revealed that there were, in fact, two versions of the exam paper, explaining that the original ink would fade with each copy made. Feng Qiwu reported to King Yong that the stored exam paper had been tampered with and was not the original.

She argued that only Lu Xiumu had the means and opportunity to leak the questions, thus clearing Prince Yongping Feng Lanxi of intentionally framing Duke Liang to protect Pei Youshuo. Instead, Feng Lanxi had been misled by a deliberate deception. With King Yong's permission, Feng Qiwu dispatched men to thoroughly search Lu Xiumu's residence.

Despite Lu Xiumu having burned the stolen exam questions in front of Minister Wang, Baili remained unconvinced and instructed Minister Wang to ascertain if Lu Xiumu possessed any private residences to ensure no evidence remained. Simultaneously, Hei Fengxi analyzed Lu Xiumu's dying words, deducing that "Mulan," in Lu Xiumu's native dialect, meant "whistling for deer," a hunting term. Intelligence from the Fountain Abode confirmed that Lu Xiumu owned a courtyard outside the city for storing hunting equipment.

Hei Fengxi and Feng Qiwu rushed to the location, intercepting an arsonist in time and recovering crucial evidence. Feng Qiwu immediately presented this evidence to King Yong, definitively proving that Feng Lanxi had not engaged in framing. Feng Lanxi then sought an audience with King Yong regarding the cheating case.

However, King Yong commanded him to discontinue his investigation, counseling him that as Prince Yongping, he should possess a magnanimous spirit and prioritize the realm, rather than dwelling on petty matters. The King declared that all culpability would be confined to Lu Xiumu.

Hei Fengxi was deeply disappointed, realizing that his father, despite knowing that further investigation would expose the true mastermind, chose to intentionally protect them for the stability and unity of Yongzhou, even at the cost of Feng Lanxi's personal grievances. Shortly after Hei Fengxi's departure, King Yong summoned Baili and rebuked her. Unable to conceal her involvement any longer, Baili confessed.

She admitted her actions were retribution for the injustices she suffered years ago, specifically referencing Feng Lanxi’s mother's intervention in her relationship with the King, which led to their five-year separation. King Yong, softened by her emotional plea, forgave Baili. He informed her that he had already dealt with the arsonist she sent and instructed Feng Lanxi to drop the investigation. He sternly cautioned her against future transgressions, urging her to unite with him to secure Yongzhou’s standing.

Later, Ren Rusong, having learned of the recent palace events, advised Hei Fengxi that minor setbacks were inconsequential and stressed the importance of prioritizing the bigger picture. To ascend to the position of heir, some indignities must be endured. Ren Rusong also noted that Feng Lanxi's ambitions extended beyond Yongzhou, and if he held such aspirations, he would face even greater trials.

He likened these to the historical sacrifices of figures like Su Wu and Han Xin, who endured great humiliation for greater objectives. Furthermore, aware that Queen Baili had begun inquiring about Feng Lanxi's consort selection, Ren Rusong suggested that he consider Feng Qiwu as a suitable candidate. However, Hei Fengxi resolutely refused, asserting that the path he walked left no room for romantic entanglements.

He confided his frustration that while everyone urged him to focus on the greater good, his very reason for entering this game of power was precisely to contend with these matters.

Episode 14 Recap

Gu Yu, who had murdered a court official, was denied a full burial and his body was disposed of in a mass grave. Meanwhile, Bai Fengxi was invited to the Lanyun Restaurant, where she discovered it was one of Feng Lanxi’s establishments. She realized the name "Lanyun" was a blend of his name, Lanxi, and "Xiyun."

Feng Lanxi revealed that he had met Xiyun once as children during a Six States banquet, and the restaurant served as a reminder of that youthful encounter and his grand ambitions, even though Xiyun would likely not recognize him now. Feng Lanxi thanked Bai Fengxi for helping him find closure after the royal examination scandal.

He noted that while others simply advised him to set aside his grievances for the greater good, she was the only one who truly cared about his feelings. He also explained that he had initially concealed his true identity because he didn't want his status to constrain their friendship, knowing her preference for the freedom of the martial arts world over the complexities of court life.

Bai Fengxi, who had once viewed him as overly cunning, now understood this was a necessary aspect of his existence within the power struggles. She wondered if their bond could remain as lighthearted when he eventually sought dominion beyond Yongzhou. With Langhua's health largely restored, Bai Fengxi informed Feng Lanxi of her decision to journey to Mount Wu the following day to search for her Master.

As she departed, Feng Lanxi feigned composure, though a deep sense of reluctance lingered within him. He confided in Zhong Li that their paths were fundamentally different; his future in the court would undoubtedly be fraught with conflict. To see her off would only foster attachment, and he found contentment in merely witnessing her pursue her heart's desires.

Bai Fengxi, too, felt a pang of sadness on her journey, accepting that their divergent paths necessitated an early separation to avert future sorrow. Shortly after, the King entrusted Feng Lanxi with the critical task of procuring military horses. Feng Lanxi, however, perceived this as a calculated move by his father to use him as a check against Minister Wang's growing influence, thereby maintaining a balance of power.

He initiated a dual approach: dispatching Chuanyun and Chuanyu to instruct the House of Jade to gather a merchant caravan and head to the Eastern Frontier for horse acquisition. Concurrently, he urged Feng Qiwu to uncover evidence of Wang Minghai, Minister Wang’s brother and the former head of horse procurement, embezzling state funds before the caravan’s return. Alarmed by these developments, Minister Wang sought an audience with Baili.

He subtly threatened to expose Prince Ju's complicity in Wang Minghai’s embezzlement if his brother were to be investigated. Though initially hesitant, Baili, protective of her son, agreed to assist Minister Wang and resolved to present Feng Lanxi with another "gift" to corner him. Following Minister Wang's directives, Wang Minghai immediately sent his merchants to the Eastern Frontier to inflate horse prices, offering ten silver leaves per horse.

Meanwhile, Baili commanded Prince Ju to depart the capital that very night for the Eastern Frontier to borrow several thousand horses from Uncle Ning. Feng Lanxi surmised that Wang Minghai would attempt to create a façade of legitimate transactions. He instructed Feng Qiwu to investigate merchants for incriminating evidence.

He recognized that this course of action would inevitably offend many, aligning perfectly with the King's true objective: to prevent Minister Wang from consolidating power and to erode Feng Lanxi's public support, allowing the King to benefit from their internal strife. He also learned that Prince Ju's sudden "votive prayer" trip outside the city hinted at his involvement in the unfolding events. Meanwhile, Prince Huang Chao and Yu Wuyuan arrived at Mount Wu.

Huang Chao speculated that Yu Wuyuan sought Old Taiyin's legacy, the Sacred Jade Moon, believing it could lift his family’s ancient curse. Yu Wuyuan, however, denied this, explaining that his primary purpose was to unravel the mystery entrapping many martial artists on Mount Wu, considering the legacy merely a secondary objective if it presented itself. Coincidentally, Bai Fengxi's group approached, and the two parties decided to join forces.

Inside Mount Wu, they encountered peculiar hazards, with falling maple leaves acting like sharp blades. In a harrowing moment, Langhua accidentally tumbled into a mountain cave. Xiu Jiurong, attempting to save her, also fell. As Bai Fengxi anxiously worried about their fate, the ethereal voice of Old Taiyin echoed, assuring them of Langhua and Xiu Jiurong's safety and urging the remaining group to continue the trial.

Back in the capital, Baili summoned Feng Chang, feigning maternal affection and presenting him with gifts, including his favorite buns. Yet, the buns contained shrimp, to which Feng Chang was severely allergic, betraying her true disregard for him. Feng Chang, realizing her "kindness" was a manipulative facade, understood that Baili, having suffered setbacks in the royal examination and now with the King's favor shifting to Feng Lanxi regarding the military horses, was desperate.

He deduced she sought to sever any emotional ties he had with Feng Lanxi. Baili proposed a marriage alliance between Feng Chang and Qi Cheng, Duke Qi's daughter, who commanded the three cities of Ming, Ping, and Yuan, and was openly antagonistic towards Feng Lanxi. Feng Chang recognized that this union would inevitably force him and Feng Lanxi into a deadly rivalry, ultimately paving the way for Feng Ju to claim the throne.

During their mandated meeting, Qi Cheng openly expressed disdain for Feng Chang, insulting him as a "servant's child." Baili, however, dismissed Feng Chang's objections and adamantly insisted on the marriage, threatening to sever their mother-son relationship if he dared to refuse. Upon learning this from Zhong Li, Feng Lanxi understood Baili's cunning strategy to undermine his bond with Feng Chang.

He realized that Baili's apprehension over the military horse situation had driven her to extreme measures, even exploiting her own son, in her relentless pursuit to dismantle him. Though unafraid of Baili, Feng Lanxi felt profound pity for his elder brother's plight. Shortly thereafter, Zhong Li informed Feng Lanxi that Bai Fengxi, accompanied by Prince Huang Chao and Yu Wuyuan, had entered Mount Wu. Feng Lanxi, however, instructed Zhong Li to cease reporting on Bai Fengxi's activities, signifying his firm resolve to let her follow her own path.

Episode 15 Recap

Xiu Jiurong and Bai Langhua plummeted into a deep valley but landed safely on a pile of straw, emerging unharmed. They heard a noise and were overjoyed to discover Bai Jiande, who was Bai Langhua’s father and Xiu Jiurong’s master. Bai Jiande explained that those who failed Old Taiyin's trials were led there because Old Taiyin wished to keep the trial's true nature a secret, temporarily trapping them until someone successfully passed the test.

He expressed hope that Bai Fengxi might succeed, as she had not yet been defeated. Meanwhile, in Yongzhou, Feng Chang was consumed by sorrow and sought solace in wine. He felt unloved by his father, used by his mother to manipulate his younger brother Feng Lanxi, and betrayed by even Feng Lanxi, whom he held dearest. Despite his personal anguish, he did not wish for his troubles to distract Feng Lanxi from his own endeavors.

Feng Lanxi arrived, offering to intervene with their father to annul Feng Chang’s betrothal to Qi Cheng if he truly opposed it. However, Feng Chang was skeptical, believing he was merely a pawn in Feng Lanxi's ongoing power struggle with Baili, and that Feng Lanxi only sought another victory against her. Feng Chang then subtly tested Feng Lanxi, discovering his formidable martial arts and even greater cunning.

Though Feng Lanxi asserted he had never plotted against his brother, Feng Chang's trust was broken, and he dismissed Feng Lanxi, telling him not to meddle in the matter of Qi Cheng. Feng Lanxi was left to regret the burden placed upon Feng Chang, contemplating the loneliness of his chosen path as his thoughts drifted to Bai Fengxi, wondering about her safety on Mount Wu.

News arrived from Chuanyun that warhorses were being sold for ten silver leaves each, a clear indication that Wang Minghai was spending heavily to disrupt Feng Lanxi’s efforts to acquire horses. Feng Lanxi realized he couldn't simply outbid them, as such a large expenditure would expose his hidden identity to his father. He decided to send a letter to Chuanyun with further instructions.

Following his orders, Chuanyun and Ren Chuanyu successfully procured a thousand warhorses from the Eastern Frontier for four silver leaves each, arranging for House of Jade personnel to transport them back to the capital. Feng Lanxi then reported the successful acquisition of the thousand warhorses to his father, the Yong King, stating they had arrived in the capital and were ready for inspection by the Ministry of War.

Moments later, Vice Minister of War Wang Minghai appeared, accusing Feng Lanxi of purchasing the very military horses that had been illegally trafficked, leading to their current shortage. The Yong King was angered by this revelation, but Feng Lanxi remained composed. Wang Minghai, eager to incriminate Feng Lanxi, insisted the King accompany him to the Ministry of War to verify the horses. However, upon inspection, it was revealed that Feng Lanxi’s newly acquired horses were not the trafficked military stock.

These horses were, in fact, a gift from Ma Mengqi, head of the Ma family, in gratitude for Feng Lanxi's previous assistance in averting disaster for the Soultaker Sect. Feng Lanxi then turned the tables, accusing Wang Minghai of false slander and exposing his embezzlement of funds meant for horse procurement, which caused the shortage. He further implicated Wang Minghai in attempting to harm innocent parties to cover up his crimes.

Presenting irrefutable evidence, Feng Lanxi witnessed the Yong King's fury, leading to Wang Minghai's immediate arrest and imprisonment in the dungeon. Inside the dungeon, Prince Ju discreetly instructed Li Jiaxian to arrange for Wang Minghai’s assassination. Soon after, news spread that Wang Minghai had committed suicide. Minister Wang, however, knew his brother was too fond of money and life to take his own life.

He suspected Baili was behind the murder, fearing Wang Minghai might expose Prince Ju to save himself. Minister Wang silently vowed to avenge his brother. Meanwhile, Ren Chuanyu, acting under Feng Lanxi’s orders and carrying his official waist token, visited Marquis Xun'an at the Yongzhou army camp to "return" military horses.

Marquis Xun'an, realizing Feng Lanxi was offering him a thousand horses in exchange for a clean slate regarding his complicity in the horse shortage, accepted the offer, understanding that Feng Lanxi had outmaneuvered him and the outcome of their political game was sealed. Concurrently, on Mount Wu, Bai Fengxi and Yu Wuyuan, after crossing a cliff, decided to proceed separately.

Yu Wuyuan, with a cruel intent to acquire the Sacred Jade Moon, secretly sabotaged the mountain’s internal mechanisms, triggering an earthquake that trapped Bai Fengxi in a collapsing cave. Old Taiyin, observing this ruthless act, deemed Yu Wuyuan's methods too extreme and commanded his subordinate to lead Yu Wuyuan to the inescapable Yangui Array. Word reached a relay station of a large caravan transporting horses from the Eastern Frontier towards the capital of Yongzhou—Feng Lanxi’s warhorses for the Yong King.

Fearing Feng Lanxi's imminent rise to the position of heir, Baili resolved to dispatch bandits to intercept and steal the horses. At the same time, news of the devastating earthquake on Mount Wu, which destroyed nearby villages and caused massive landslides, reached Feng Lanxi, filling him with deep concern for Bai Fengxi’s safety. Separately, Fountain Abode agents reported that several horse bandit groups had mobilized, seemingly preparing to attack Feng Lanxi's caravan.

Taking charge, Feng Lanxi ordered Fountain Abode forces to mobilize, stating he would personally oversee the situation and support Ren Chuanyu and his men. After swiftly dealing with the horse bandits, Feng Lanxi, consumed with worry for Bai Fengxi, immediately headed towards Mount Wu. Fortunately, his gyrfalcon located Bai Fengxi, enabling him to rescue her from the collapsing cave.

Discovering she had been traveling with Yu Wuyuan for the past few days, Feng Lanxi couldn't hide his jealousy and insisted she accompany him the next day. He also expressed his desire to experience Old Taiyin’s challenges firsthand. As night fell, Feng Lanxi roasted some food for Bai Fengxi, who, in turn, offered him some wild fruits she had picked. The following day, Feng Lanxi and Bai Fengxi ventured into a cave housing King Lanling's Liuyao Array.

To overcome it, they realized they couldn't rely on brute force; instead, they needed to find its central key, as every stone brick concealed a trap. Bai Fengxi recognized the complete characters on the ground, recalling the seven kings and their corresponding poems from her time at the Dadong Eight Pagoda. Their combined intellect and seamless cooperation allowed them to successfully decipher and break the formidable Liuyao Array.

Having cleared another hurdle, Bai Fengxi inquired about her master's whereabouts and safety. Old Taiyin assured her that her master was currently safe but emphasized that rescuing them required the Sacred Jade Moon. He declared that all who received his invitation and entered Mount Wu must undergo his trials, and their ultimate fate depended on their own abilities. Feng Lanxi, confident in their partnership, proclaimed that with their combined strength, they could overcome any challenge.

Episode 16 Recap

Hei Fengxi was invited to play a game of Go with Old Taiyin. As the game began, Hei Fengxi experienced vivid illusions, seeing multiple versions of himself. He understood that his greatest enemy was his own inner demons, but recognized that these figures, no matter how similar, were merely pawns. He then witnessed a painful childhood memory: sneaking out of the palace playfully, only to return and find his mother had died.

This event had haunted him, making him blame himself and believe his mother might have lived if he hadn't left. However, drawing on his long struggle, Hei Fengxi confronted the illusion, asserting that he had lived with his pain for too long and that only by shedding his burdens could he move forward; self-blame was useless, and facing it head-on was the only way. Old Taiyin praised Hei Fengxi's strong character and announced the final trial.

He explained that life is like a game of chess, and the board represents the "three thousand strands of worry." Hei Fengxi's task was to sever these strands to win the game. However, Hei Fengxi struggled, unwilling to cut his emotional ties. Witnessing his anguish, Bai Fengxi promptly destroyed the chessboard. Hei Fengxi acknowledged that Bai Fengxi's mind was unburdened, making her immune to the game's illusions.

She affectionately wiped sweat from his brow, though she expressed mild annoyance when Hei Fengxi implied her carefree nature meant she only knew how to enjoy herself. Hei Fengxi confirmed that they had passed this challenge. With the trial complete, Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi finally met Old Taiyin in person.

Old Taiyin remarked on their unusual behavior, noting that while everyone else in the martial arts world coveted the Sacred Jade Moon manual, they were both deferring to each other. Hei Fengxi explained that he had entered Mount Wu because of Bai Fengxi; acquiring the manual would be good, but not obtaining it would also be acceptable.

Bai Fengxi stated that her sole purpose in coming to Mount Wu was to rescue her master and martial sister, not to covet secret manuals. She playfully added that if Hei Fengxi mastered an unparalleled martial art from it, she would simply force him to teach her, reasoning that he wouldn't want to live without a worthy opponent.

Impressed, Old Taiyin decided to pass on the Sacred Jade Moon technique to them, despite having never fully mastered its highest realm himself, curious to see how far they could take it. He was amazed by their profound comprehension as they began to practice. During cultivation, Hei Fengxi's inner force became chaotic, putting him at risk of qi deviation. Bai Fengxi immediately used the Jade Moon chant to stabilize him.

To act quickly, she reversed her meridians to accelerate the process, a dangerous move since forming a large circle of vital energy typically required much more time and a gradual approach. Old Taiyin warned her against such a rash decision, but Bai Fengxi insisted that some things mattered more than right or wrong. Hei Fengxi, observing her sacrifice, reflected on the nature of letting go.

He realized that while some things in life must be discarded to gain others, certain bonds could never be severed. Despite believing himself free of desires and attachments, he found that Bai Fengxi was the one person he could never let go of. He decided that keeping one "strand of worry" among the three thousand, letting it bind him forever, was a choice he would make.

After Bai Fengxi successfully stabilized Hei Fengxi's inner force, Old Taiyin instructed her to press four fatal acupoints—Baihui, Shenting, Yamen, and Fengchi—to fully restore Hei Fengxi's consciousness, emphasizing that his life now depended on her precision. With their combined effort, they successfully mastered the Sacred Jade Moon. Old Taiyin finally understood that the technique truly required a communion of hearts, mutual sacrifice, and steadfast devotion through life and death to be achieved.

Meanwhile, Yu Wuyuan, observing from the Yangui Array, realized it was a perilous trap. He deduced that the mountain array's malfunction meant someone had successfully passed the trials. He ordered the Soultaker Sect members to gather outside Mount Wu, revealing himself as their Young Master. Anticipating that martial arts practitioners would descend through this area, Yu Wuyuan instructed his forces to set an ambush to discover who had obtained the Sacred Jade Moon.

After Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi completed their trials, Old Taiyin, sensing his impending demise, entrusted Hei Fengxi with the Great Map of Dadong, hoping it would be used for righteous purposes. To Bai Fengxi, he gifted a Sacred Jade Moon flower, which he had cultivated himself. This rare flower bloomed only once every few decades, detaching from its branch like a ripe melon and sustaining itself with inner force, promising eternal bloom.

Old Taiyin advised her to cherish it, as it might provide unexpected vitality in a life-or-death situation. Old Taiyin's attendant then escorted Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi out of Mount Wu. Once they were at a safe distance, Mount Wu dramatically collapsed in an earthquake; the mountain itself was Old Taiyin's chosen tomb, and his attendant intended to remain there to guard it. Yu Wuyuan confronted the attendant, demanding to know who had obtained the Sacred Jade Moon.

When the attendant refused to answer, Yu Wuyuan cruelly used the Heart Destroyer Palm on him, confirming the attendant's suspicion that Yu Wuyuan was a descendant of the ancient Qiongqi. Yu Wuyuan declared that the Qiongqi, ancient beasts sent to purify the mortal realm, were meant to cleanse this turbulent world, fulfilling his ancestors' wishes. The attendant accused him of deviating from the right path before succumbing to his injuries. Yu Wuyuan then encountered Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi.

To ascertain who among them had acquired the Sacred Jade Moon, he informed them of a struggle at the foot of the mountain. Concerned for her master, Bai Fengxi rushed down the mountain with Hei Fengxi. Below, the Soultaker Sect was attacking Bai Jiande's group, but Bai Fengxi and Hei Fengxi worked together, combining their strength to repel the attackers. Observing from a hidden vantage point, Yu Wuyuan understood what had happened.

With the immediate danger passed, Hei Fengxi announced his departure due to personal matters, stating that Bai Fengxi would accompany him. Bai Fengxi, however, humorously questioned his assumption, but ultimately agreed to head to Yongzhou with Hei Fengxi and her injured master, as it was the closest place for treatment. Hei Fengxi promised to arrange accommodations for everyone.

Back in Yongzhou, Zhong Li and his subordinates were in a panic as the court meeting was about to begin, and Feng Lanxi had not yet returned. They feared the Yong King's wrath over his absence. At the meeting, the Yong King was indeed furious about Feng Lanxi's tardiness, suspecting he was exploiting his achievements in securing military horses. Feng Ju tried to speak in Feng Lanxi's defense, but other officials suggested Feng Lanxi might be taking undue credit.

Just then, Feng Lanxi arrived, presenting the Great Map of Dadong to his father, explaining his delay was due to obtaining this valuable item. Feng Ju questioned the map's authenticity, so the Yong King asked Minister Qin, who had seen the original, to verify it. Minister Qin confirmed it was indeed the genuine Great Map of Dadong, personally drawn by Old Taiyin.

When questioned about his connection to Old Taiyin, Feng Lanxi claimed that it was Old Taiyin who had saved him after he fell into the water years ago, curing his long-standing illness and teaching him martial arts, but had forbidden him from revealing their association. He explained that Old Taiyin had sent for him, sensing his own end was near, and asked Feng Lanxi to retrieve the map from Mount Wu for the Yong King.

Overjoyed by this immense contribution to Yongzhou, the Yong King immediately planned a lavish reward for Feng Lanxi. Just then, an Imperial Envoy from the Imperial City arrived. The Yong King quickly ordered Yuan Lu to conceal the map. This envoy's arrival was orchestrated by Feng Lanxi, who had enlisted his distant relative, Feng Qiwu, working in the Ministry of Rites in the Imperial City, to help him make a preemptive move.

The envoy announced he was sent by the Emperor himself with memorial gifts for the upcoming 40th birthday memorial of Princess Yige, Feng Lanxi's late mother, signaling support for Feng Lanxi. He inquired about Feng Lanxi, whom the Emperor missed, and Feng Lanxi formally greeted him. The envoy praised Feng Lanxi's regal appearance and resemblance to the Emperor, attributing it to Princess Yige's care from above. Feng Lanxi humbly acknowledged his father's love and the Emperor's benevolence, expressing Yongzhou's gratitude.

The envoy then expressed his wish to visit Princess Yige's temple. The Yong King, who had never bothered to properly entomb Feng Lanxi's mother in the royal mausoleum, panicked. Feng Lanxi quickly intervened, suggesting that since the actual memorial was three days away, the envoy should rest first, and he would personally lead the ceremony then. He also advised his father to arrange a proper altar before the memorial.

The Yong King instructed the Minister of Rites to prepare for the two-hour ceremony. Later, Queen Baili feigned illness to avoid attending the memorial. Her maid hinted at her poor health, but the Yong King, seeing through her pretense, reprimanded the maid and firmly stated that as the Queen of Yongzhou, Baili, being virtuous and understanding, would certainly not miss such a crucial event, even if she were truly unwell, lest it bring shame upon Yongzhou before the Imperial Envoy.

Baili, cornered, had no choice but to agree to attend. Feng Lanxi visited his mother's memorial tablet. He admitted using her birthday to subtly challenge Queen Baili, acknowledging that his mother likely wouldn't approve, as she had always taught him not to harbor ill will towards others. He reflected on the many actions, both right and wrong, he had taken since her passing, wondering if she would be proud or disappointed. He concluded that after her death, he felt like a rootless wanderer, but he refused to drift aimlessly and was determined to fight for his destiny.

Episode 17 Recap

Hei Fengxi visited his late mother's memorial. He shared his deep loneliness since her passing and his unwavering resolve to fight for his position, refusing to be swayed by fate. He spoke of meeting a woman who reminds him of his mother, someone who brings warmth to his heart and gives him confidence, much like his mother once did. He admitted he was initially afraid she might distract him, but he found he couldn't let go.

The next morning, Queen Baili sent a wedding gown to Feng Chang, but he refused to try it on. He lamented that while a gown can be altered to fit, a mismatched heart cannot. He found it ironic that on the eve of his late mother’s memorial, Queen Baili was still scheming for him, deeming her truly heartless. Feeling stifled, Feng Chang went to the market to clear his head.

There, he encountered Bai Fengxi and expressed his admiration for the free and unrestrained life of martial artists, a world he had long yearned for. Bai Fengxi cautioned him about the inherent dangers of the martial arts world, advising him against pursuing it. When she learned of his impending arranged marriage, she offered a profound perspective: life is fleeting, and some things, especially marriage, should never be compromised, for unhappiness would plague both parties.

Her words resonated deeply with Feng Chang. On the day of the late queen’s memorial ceremony, as King Yong and his court performed the rites, Queen Baili approached to offer wine. Memories of the past flooded her mind, causing her to feel a sudden surge of guilt and fear. At that moment, a violent thunderstorm erupted, with flashes of lightning. Startled, Queen Baili dropped her wine cup and collapsed, trembling.

Feng Chang quickly rushed to her side to help her up. Later, King Yong privately berated Queen Baili for her disgraceful display at the memorial. He reminded her of her humble origins, emphasizing the immense effort he put into making her his queen against the objections of his officials. He accused her of becoming arrogant and ungrateful, constantly overstepping her bounds.

He revealed he had tolerated her interference in court affairs and disruptions to his rule for two decades out of pity for her past hardships. However, he declared her ambition had grown too vast, particularly her relentless plotting for Feng Ju to usurp the position of heir. He questioned if she eagerly awaited his death to become queen dowager and revealed his knowledge of her masterminding the imperial examination scandal and the missing funds from the military horse trading.

King Yong asserted that he could both bestow and revoke anything in the realm, then swiftly issued a decree grounding Queen Baili in her palace for thirty days, ostensibly for religious fasting to pray for the late queen. Meanwhile, Hei Fengxi spoke with Miss Huan, who had served him and his late mother since childhood. Acknowledging her devotion, he offered her freedom if she wished to find a husband.

Miss Huan, however, knelt and tearfully pledged her unwavering loyalty, stating her desire to serve him for the rest of her life and her inability to adapt to life outside the palace. Hei Fengxi accepted her plea. Later that evening, Bai Fengxi took her junior martial siblings for a stroll through the bustling capital. Her martial sister, Bai Langhua, playfully teased her about Hei Fengxi, noticing his ambiguous gaze towards Bai Fengxi and asking if she liked him.

Bai Fengxi adamantly denied any romantic feelings, insisting that she and the "Black Foxy" were merely friends. She explained her unique interactions with him were due to an instinct to challenge him, much like she treated each of her martial siblings differently. However, Bai Langhua remained unconvinced. As they continued, Bai Fengxi briefly spotted Yu Wuyuan in the crowd but didn't engage him, as her martial siblings were present.

Unseen, Yu Wuyuan conversed with the leader of the Soultaker Sect, confirming he had obtained the key items from the four great sects: the Han family's medicines, the Xuanyuan Sect's formations, the Tie family's cast iron, and the Ma family's secret manual. He dismissed the heavy losses suffered by the Soultaker Sect, stating its existence was merely a shell for Cricket and that their true objective lay elsewhere.

He noted that the Sacred Jade Moon had fallen into the hands of Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi, necessitating an extended stay in the capital. Confined to her chambers, Queen Baili was unrepentant. She bitterly resented her humble background as a fabric merchant's daughter, especially now that her past had been publicly exposed again after the memorial. Vowing never to be a laughingstock, she intentionally cut her wrist, proclaiming she would "copy scriptures with my blood" during her fast.

She then secretly instructed her chamberlain to inform her brother, urging him to finalize the marriage between Duke Qi's daughter and Feng Chang before the New Year. Hei Fengxi sent a letter to Feng Chang, advising him to follow his true feelings regarding marriage and offering intelligence about the Qi family that could be used as leverage if he chose to marry Qi Cheng. Remembering Bai Fengxi's words from the market, Feng Chang went to visit Queen Baili.

Witnessing her feigned vulnerability with her self-inflicted wound, his resentment grew. He bluntly stated his decision: he would not marry Duke Qi's daughter, nor any woman arranged by Queen Baili, declaring he would no longer lie to himself. He also pointed out that her true son was Feng Ju alone. Queen Baili dropped her act. She viciously tried to sow discord between Feng Chang and Feng Lanxi, insinuating their brotherhood was fragile.

She then delivered a chilling threat: if Feng Chang refused the marriage, she would expose his epilepsy to the world, ensuring his complete ruin and disgrace in court. She offered him an assurance of a trouble-free future if he complied, cynically adding that pretending to be his loving mother was "just as revolting" to her. Furious but cornered, Feng Chang returned to his residence and drowned his sorrows in drink, observed with profound sadness by Uncle De.

Meanwhile, Bai Jiande met with Hei Fengxi, revealing his knowledge of Hei Fengxi’s true identity and his desire for the Fountain Abode's assistance. He explained that there was more than one fake Empyrean Token in circulation and that he, as one of the "Token Keepers," was responsible not only for protecting the true token but also for limiting imperial power.

He implored Hei Fengxi to investigate the identity of the mastermind behind these fake tokens, who sought to destabilize the world, and specifically asked him to keep this information from Bai Fengxi, to spare her worry. Hei Fengxi agreed.

Hei Fengxi later took Bai Fengxi to his secret practice spot, reflecting on his past loneliness and the evolution of his ambitions: from self-preservation to seizing the position of heir, and then to conquering the world, which he admitted was "endless greed." Bai Fengxi gently reminded him that he had a choice and questioned why he couldn't give up on conquering the world. Hei Fengxi then articulated his deeper motivation: the world, he felt, was not as it should be.

He desired to create a better life for the "helpless, the living, and those who make me feel alive"—people whose genuine warmth connected him to the world. He then mused to Bai Fengxi that from their first meeting, he had an inexplicable feeling their fates were intertwined, humorously adding that she was quite "a nuisance."

Back at the Fountain Abode, Zhong Li reported to Hei Fengxi that Yu Wuyuan was in the capital, a fact that surprised Hei Fengxi, as the Fountain Abode had no intelligence on it. He ordered Zhong Li to track Yu Wuyuan’s every move. Zhong Li also informed him that Feng Chang had submitted a betrothal proposal to King Yong, seeking to marry Duke Qi’s daughter.

Hei Fengxi, unaware of Queen Baili’s coercion, felt a pang of sadness, believing Feng Chang had chosen this path out of disappointment in him. In Youzhou, Princess Hua Chunran was informed by her father, the Lord of Youzhou, that he intended to arrange a husband for her. With calm composure, she suggested a public spouse selection contest instead, declaring she desired only the most exceptional man in the realm.

Immediately afterward, she secretly ordered an investigation to discover who had advised her father on the matter of her marriage. Back in Yongzhou, Feng Chang presented his betrothal proposal to King Yong, declaring his sincere love for Qi Cheng, likening it to King Yong’s initial affection for the late queen. King Yong was pleased, deeming the match suitable for his eldest son, given Duke Qi's noble standing in Yongzhou, and subtly acknowledged Queen Baili's "well-done" role in the matter.

He instructed the Astronomy Officer to divine their horoscopes, and if compatible, a small betrothal ceremony would follow. The official betrothal decree, he announced, would be issued on New Year’s Day, marking a "new beginning for a new year" and coinciding with the end of Queen Baili's fasting period. King Yong then bestowed upon Feng Chang the title of Prince Yongxin and granted him a fief of 3,000 households.

Episode 18 Recap

King Yong, seeking to balance the growing influence of Prince Yongping Feng Lanxi, decreed that Feng Chang be elevated to Prince Yongxin, granting him a fief of three thousand households. The King explained that while Lanxi had enjoyed considerable attention recently, it was not yet time to name an heir. He also instructed Yuan Lu to accelerate the production of armors and weapons at the Ministry of Works during the winter break.

Prince Ju was infuriated by his father's decision, feeling that he was the only prince without a title. After calming down, he ordered his retainers to inform his mother, Queen Baili, that their pre-arranged plans should be set in motion. He then discreetly instructed Li Jiaxian to seek out his uncle, Baili Jing, to forge a decree for Feng Chang. Despite Li Jiaxian's concerns, Prince Ju insisted, viewing it as a prime opportunity.

He specifically warned against informing his mother, reasoning that her confinement rendered her unhelpful and she might complicate matters. Meanwhile, Queen Baili, through Baili Jing, sent a hairpin to Miss Qi Cheng, attempting to win her favor as part of her plan. Feng Chang, in turn, reminded Baili Jing to convey to the Queen that he would only assist her this one time, severing all ties afterward.

Prince Yongping Hei Fengxi received a sudden invitation from Feng Chang for a plum blossom viewing, immediately sensing a trap, as such an abrupt invitation was uncharacteristic of his elder brother. He ordered his men to investigate and soon discovered that Baili Jing had secretly visited Feng Chang. Later, on his way back to his residence, Hei Fengxi was accosted by a merchant who splashed him with black hound blood, shouting curses and blaming him for ruining his family.

Zhong Li's subsequent investigation revealed the assailant was a merchant who, after being implicated in bribery during Wang Minghai's downfall, harbored a deep grudge against Hei Fengxi. Unbeknownst to Hei Fengxi, this incident was deliberately orchestrated by Feng Chang, who hoped the superstition surrounding the black hound blood would deter Hei Fengxi from leaving his home.

Despite his housekeeper Miss Huan's warnings about bad luck and the need for fasting and cleansing with salt, Hei Fengxi dismissed such notions as superstition and insisted on keeping an appointment to visit Minister Liu. However, Miss Huan overheard Zhong Li revealing that Hei Fengxi's real intention was to meet Bai Fengxi. Upon learning of the incident, Bai Fengxi confidently declared she had a unique method to dispel the bad luck.

She took Hei Fengxi to a bustling street stall, assuring him that a meal rich in exotic Western spices would ward off misfortune. Though initially skeptical, Hei Fengxi found himself enjoying the delectable street food. As they wandered through the market, they unexpectedly ran into Bai Fengxi's martial sister, Bai Langhua, and Xiu Jiurong. To avoid any misunderstanding, Bai Fengxi quickly pulled Hei Fengxi into hiding.

Despite Bai Langhua's quick wit in ushering her companions away, she appeared to have caught a glimpse of them. Once they were alone, Hei Fengxi voiced his frustration at being hidden. Bai Fengxi awkwardly explained that she simply didn't want her martial siblings to misunderstand that she was neglecting her training.

The next day, Hei Fengxi arrived at the plum garden with a prepared gift, stating that regardless of the circumstances, Feng Chang was his elder brother, and he would not make things difficult for him. Prince Ju and Baili Jing were also present. A servant offered Hei Fengxi a cup of tea, which he drank before feigning unconsciousness. The servant then had Miss Qi Cheng's lifeless body brought next to him, intending to frame Hei Fengxi for her murder.

Feng Chang arrived at the pavilion, witnessing the scene and realizing the ruthlessness of Queen Baili's scheme. Before the servant could act further, Hei Fengxi, who had merely pretended to be unconscious, suddenly sprang to life, knocking out the servant. Hei Fengxi confronted Feng Chang, discerning that this was not his brother's true desire and pressing him to reveal who was coercing him.

Feng Chang, however, remained silent about the mastermind, instead berating Hei Fengxi for years of deceit and asking why he had come when he had suggested they sever ties. Hei Fengxi recounted how their mother had instilled in him the belief that Feng Chang, not acknowledged by his birth mother, deserved extra care.

He affirmed that he could not stand idly by while his elder brother suffered and acknowledged that Feng Chang had always been the one who looked after him more. As a gesture, Hei Fengxi presented Feng Chang with a Golden Rattan Whip he had acquired, lamenting that they might both disappoint their mother this time.

Feng Chang, though deeply pained, spoke harsh words to push his brother away for his own safety, then deliberately threw himself from the pavilion, simulating an accident. Royal physicians, who were conveniently present, quickly attended to Feng Chang, confirming that his life was not in danger, though his right leg was severely broken, threatening to leave him handicapped. Duke Qi, overcome with grief at his daughter's death, immediately accused Hei Fengxi of murder.

Adding to the chaos, Baili Jing stumbled into the scene, appearing disoriented and with prominent scratches on his face. Hei Fengxi, having anticipated the trap, had collaborated with Zhong Li, subtly manipulating events to shift suspicion towards Baili Jing and cause him to appear deranged. This cleverly cleared Hei Fengxi's name and provided a way out for Feng Chang. In the royal court, Duke Qi pleaded with King Yong for justice, adamantly accusing Hei Fengxi of framing Baili Jing.

Hei Fengxi calmly refuted Duke Qi's reckless accusations against the royal family, leaving the Duke speechless. Minister Zhang Zhongge intervened, suggesting that Duke Qi's grief had clouded his judgment and that a final decision should await Feng Chang's recovery. After dismissing his ministers, King Yong privately questioned Yuan Lu about the true mastermind.

He doubted that Baili Jing would commit such a grave act out of mere lust and speculated if Feng Chang had attempted to frame Hei Fengxi but was outmaneuvered. Yuan Lu countered, arguing that Feng Chang would not sacrifice himself, especially knowing that a handicapped prince could not inherit the throne.

Based on Yuan Lu's analysis, King Yong concluded that Prince Ju and Queen Baili were the most likely culprits, believing Prince Ju sought to eliminate both his elder brothers to secure his position as heir. At that moment, Queen Baili defiantly entered the court despite her confinement, offering to relinquish her phoenix crown. She insisted that she and Prince Ju were innocent, arguing that the ultimate beneficiary of the plot was the true mastermind.

She went on to offer substantial compensation to Duke Qi's family: five thousand pieces of gold, a marriage between Baili Jing's son and Duke Qi's niece, and the promise that her family's inherited title would pass to the son born of this union. She concluded by emotionally asserting that Feng Chang was her own flesh and blood. The King, somewhat mollified, told her he would investigate further.

Back in her chambers, Queen Baili angrily slapped Prince Ju, demanding to know whose idea the disastrous plan was. Prince Ju blamed Baili Jing, but Queen Baili remained unconvinced. Meanwhile, Minister Zhang Zhongge's search of the plum garden uncovered the dead body of a blue-clad servant from Xuliu Parlor. In the servant's hand, a piece of dark fox fur was found, stained with the same wine detected on Miss Qi Cheng's body.

King Yong immediately issued a decree: all noblemen who had attended the banquet, with the exception of Feng Chang, were confined to their residences. Minister Zhang Zhongge proceeded to Prince Yongping's residence to inspect Hei Fengxi's dark fox fur coat. However, Feng Qiwu had already discreetly arranged for a replacement coat to be delivered. Feng Qiwu then instructed her maid, Xiao'er, to preserve Hei Fengxi's original coat, explaining that its destruction was premature.

She emphasized that to definitively exonerate Hei Fengxi, Feng Chang would need to awaken and personally confirm Baili Jing's guilt, and the coat would serve as crucial evidence. Since Hei Fengxi was confined, Feng Qiwu took it upon herself to manage these matters, driven by her hope that Hei Fengxi would achieve his ambitions.

Episode 19 Recap

Bai Fengxi, upon hearing that Feng Lanxi, also known as Hei Fengxi, was under house arrest, secretly visited his residence late at night. She found him in a somber mood, burdened by the recent events that had turned the royal family's internal struggles into public ridicule. Feng Lanxi expressed deep regret over unwittingly causing the death of Miss Qi Cheng and implicating his elder brother, Feng Chang.

He confessed that despite his reputation for intelligence, he had failed to anticipate every outcome. Bai Fengxi, understanding Feng Lanxi's tendency to conceal his emotions, urged him to speak with Feng Chang directly, express his true feelings, resolve their conflict, and unite against their common enemies. She emphasized that without open communication, misunderstandings would persist. Meanwhile, Feng Chang had regained consciousness but instructed Physician Zheng to falsify his medical report.

He demanded that it state he suffered a severe leg injury, necessitating a crutch for life, along with symptoms of amnesia due to a brain clot. Feng Chang threatened the physician's son to ensure compliance. His intention was to appear incapacitated, thereby removing himself as a pawn for Queen Baili to use against Feng Lanxi. However, Queen Baili underestimated Feng Chang's situation.

She sent a maid to his residence to serve him, instructing her to secretly poison his medicine, aiming to drive him to madness and then frame Feng Lanxi for the act. Fortunately, Feng Lanxi paid a visit to his elder brother. Though Feng Chang feigned unconsciousness, Feng Lanxi poured out his heart, acknowledging Feng Chang's forced actions and affirming that Feng Chang remained his only family after their mother's passing.

As Uncle De prepared to administer Feng Chang's medicine, Feng Lanxi detected a strange odor. Using a silver needle, he confirmed the presence of poison. He learned that the medicine was prepared by a new maid, who was Queen Baili's operative. Understanding Queen Baili's ruthless strategy of sacrificing lesser figures to protect herself, Feng Lanxi’s expression grew serious. He instructed Uncle De not to disclose his visit or the poisoning, assuring him that he would handle the matter.

After Feng Lanxi left, Feng Chang slowly opened his eyes, feeling utterly despondent. Not long after, news of Feng Chang's awakening reached the palace. The Lord of Yongzhou immediately rushed to his residence, but his primary concern was not Feng Chang's well-being but rather who had pushed him from the pavilion. Feng Chang, deeply disappointed by his father's callousness, feigned complete memory loss, which Physician Zheng corroborated, citing a brain clot.

Coincidentally, Official Zhang Zhongge reported finding a damaged fox fur coat with a scent matching Miss Qi Cheng's at Baili Jing's residence. The Lord of Yongzhou, finding the evidence suspicious due to its timing, nevertheless ordered the case closed. He decreed that Feng Chang's fall was an accident and that Baili Jing, now deemed insane, would take the blame for Miss Qi Cheng's death.

This decision also lifted the house arrest for all other princes, serving as a warning to Queen Baili. It was revealed that Miss Huan, Feng Lanxi's maid, had noticed a missing piece from his fox fur coat, prompting a Minister to prepare a replacement, which helped secure Feng Lanxi's innocence. On December 24th of the lunar calendar, the annual House-cleaning Day, Feng Lanxi visited Feng Chang's residence for their traditional chess game.

Despite his inward joy at Feng Lanxi's arrival, Feng Chang harshly rebuked him, claiming their bond was broken beyond repair and demanding he leave. Feng Lanxi understood that Feng Chang was sacrificing himself to protect him, just as he had always done since childhood. While walking through the market, Feng Lanxi paused at a mud figure stall, recalling a mud deer his late mother had given him.

Bai Fengxi encountered him there and, noticing his fondness for the mud figures, decided to craft one in his likeness. Feng Lanxi cherished the mud figure, and memories of their time together brought an imperceptible smile to his face. Meanwhile, Yu Wuyuan's blood curse was intensifying, making him visibly weaker. He concluded that he needed to acquire the Sacred Jade Moon swiftly to fully suppress the curse and prolong his life.

The leader of the Soultaker Sect presented a spirit stone Yu Wuyuan requested and revealed Hei Fengxi's true identity as Prince Yongping, Feng Lanxi. Yu Wuyuan, a descendant of the Empyrean Yu family, had learned from his aunt the secret history of the "Cricket" (Ju Xu). A century ago, this secret army, composed of three families including the Yu family, aimed to overthrow the Dadong Empire.

After the failure of the Chongde Rebellion, all three families were afflicted with the blood curse through the Empyrean Token, explaining why their ancestors rarely lived past the age of thirty. Now fully aware, Yu Wuyuan vowed to fulfill his ancestors' legacy by overthrowing Dadong and seizing the Empyrean Token, which he believed was the only way to break the curse.

To achieve this, Yu Wuyuan ordered the news of his arrival in the capital of Yongzhou to be spread, intending to incite chaos. As the New Year approached, Queen Baili summoned Feng Ju to the palace, advising him on how to earn merit. She suggested he focus on replenishing the Ministry of Revenue to secure the Lord of Yongzhou's military endeavors.

She named three corrupt officials—Fu Wenbo, Luan Qiya, and He Youde—and instructed Feng Ju to fabricate charges of oppressing the common people against them, seize their assets, and deposit the money into the royal treasury. Feng Ju silently agreed, shocked by his mother's detailed knowledge of his associates. Separately, Zhong Li informed Feng Lanxi about Yu Wuyuan's publicized arrival in Yongzhou.

Feng Lanxi suspected Yu Wuyuan orchestrated this, instructing Zhong Li to continue monitoring his movements to ascertain his true motives. The Lord of Yongzhou, having also received news of Yu Wuyuan's arrival, summoned him to the palace and hosted a banquet, hoping to persuade him to stay and aid Yongzhou in unifying the states.

Yu Wuyuan politely declined, stating that his ambitions extended beyond a single state or city and he had no desire to be employed by any royal family. As a commoner, he wished to work for the welfare of all common people, striving for a world of peace and prosperity. Feng Ju, having heard of Yu Wuyuan's reputation, visited him with lavish gifts during the New Year. However, Yu Wuyuan unceremoniously dismissed him.

Undeterred, Feng Ju, aware of the Empyrean Yu family's vast knowledge and how even Crown Prince Huang Chao of Jizhou respected Yu Wuyuan as an "One-line Tutor," resolved to persist. Unbeknownst to Feng Ju, Yu Wuyuan's true intention was to use him as a tool to destabilize Yongzhou and target Feng Lanxi. He planned to play a long game, instructing the Soultaker Sect leader to handle Feng Ju's future visits.

Episode 20 Recap

Yu Wuyuan shared his vision for a peaceful world, one where all commoners could enjoy serenity, stating that this was why he assisted Huang Chao. Soon after, Feng Ju arrived to visit, bringing New Year gifts and acknowledging Yu Wuyuan's presence in Yongzhou. Yu Wuyuan, feigning weariness, asked Feng Ju to return another day.

Undeterred, Feng Ju told his subordinate that the Empyrean Yu family possessed unparalleled knowledge, and even Huang Chao considered Yu Wuyuan his "One-line Tutor," implying that persistence with multiple visits was essential. He expressed confidence that with Yu Wuyuan's support, Feng Lanxi would no longer be a threat. Once Feng Ju departed, Yu Wuyuan, pleased, declared that his "fish had taken the bait" and confirmed his intention to use Feng Ju against Feng Lanxi to destabilize Yongzhou.

He instructed his subordinate to handle Feng Ju's inevitable future visits. Meanwhile, Bai Fengxi brought Han Pu down the mountain to celebrate the New Year with the Tianshuang Sect disciples. They joyfully toasted their master's good health and their own martial arts progress, exchanged red packets, and enjoyed the festive fireworks. At the Yongzhou Palace banquet, the princes presented their gifts to the Yong King.

Feng Chang, excused from rising due to his (feigned) leg injury, presented a naturally formed Qilin coral, wishing the King good fortune and Yongzhou peace and prosperity. The Yong King rewarded Feng Chang with ten jade beads, 10,000 taels of silver leaves, a mansion outside the capital, and ten servants. The attending courtiers understood this as the customary reward for an "idle prince," signifying Feng Chang's removal from the competition for the heir's position.

Next, Feng Lanxi presented a detailed construction plan for all the water channels within Yongzhou, declaring that its successful implementation would strengthen the military, ensure national prosperity, and be as effective as a million-strong army. The Yong King was greatly pleased, praising Feng Lanxi and awarding him 10,000 taels of silver leaves and a pair of Sun and Moon Pearls, traditionally the most significant gifts bestowed before naming an heir.

Following this, Feng Ju presented a pillow crafted from 10,000-year-old agarwood from Nanhai, imbued with calming fragrance sachets, wishing the King peaceful sleep and freedom from worries. The Yong King was touched by Feng Ju's thoughtfulness and instructed him to remain by his side to share the burdens of state affairs. The courtiers, observing these seemingly contradictory gestures, were perplexed by the King's true intentions, sensing an even rivalry between Feng Lanxi and Feng Ju.

At the Jizhou Palace banquet, the Lord of Jizhou inquired about the absence of Grand Tutor Ran. Huang Chao reported that Grand Tutor Ran, due to his advanced age, had succumbed to the winter. (In truth, Huang Chao had him imprisoned and executed for repeatedly conspiring to frame him while managing the censorate. ) Huang Chao assured his father that the funeral arrangements were being handled.

Other courtiers echoed the sentiment that Ran Bo must have died peacefully, seeing Jizhou prosper under the King and Huang Chao. Huang Chao then requested a posthumous title for Ran Bo, suggesting "Qing," which the King approved. They all raised a toast to console Ran Bo's spirit. During the Youzhou Palace banquet, Princess Hua Chunran performed a "Heavenly Garment" dance for the Lord of Youzhou, wishing for peace and prosperity for Youzhou.

When asked what reward she desired, Hua Chunran humbly stated her only wish was to please her father, expressing sadness that if she were to marry next year, she would no longer be able to dance for him. Reluctant to see his daughter married far away, the Lord of Youzhou decreed that any suitor wishing to marry Hua Chunran must first reside in Youzhou for several years. Hua Chunran thanked her father for his consideration.

After several attempts, Yu Wuyuan finally granted Feng Ju an audience. Feng Ju explained that because the Yong King was still in his prime, no heir had been named. He desired to compete for the position but had been consistently outmaneuvered by Feng Lanxi and sought Yu Wuyuan's assistance. Yu Wuyuan, however, declined, stating that the Yu family adhered to a long-standing rule against involvement in succession disputes.

Feng Ju then shifted his request, asking for advice on his plan to investigate corruption to replenish the royal treasury, but expressed concern about alienating his supporters in court. Yu Wuyuan offered a plan that promised to protect Feng Ju's allies while simultaneously causing significant trouble for Feng Lanxi. In the capital of Yongzhou, the Tianshuang Sect set up a porridge stall for the poor during the New Year festivities.

Officials under He Youde from the Ministry of Revenue aggressively attempted to shut them down, demanding an unreasonable "permit fee" of 100 silver leaves and threatening to dismantle their stall. Bai Jiande protested, arguing the charitable nature of their act and the absence of any such law. Zhong Li intervened, displaying Feng Qiwu's official plate, demanding respect for Minister Feng's authority.

He then accused the officials of illegally acquiring funds and warned that Feng Qiwu might personally confront Prince Ju regarding his unruly subordinates. He Youde's subordinate, intimidated, profusely apologized and quickly withdrew his men. Bai Fengxi, curious, asked Zhong Li about Feng Lanxi, and Zhong Li revealed that Feng Lanxi had orchestrated this intervention. Feng Lanxi later remarked that these minor officials were insignificant, and true reform required targeting the higher-ups, a sentiment Bai Fengxi shared.

She then joined in distributing porridge. During the court assembly, Feng Ju impeached three officials from the Ministry of Revenue for embezzling eight million taels, enraging the Yong King. The King immediately ordered Feng Ju to collaborate with the Three Ministries to conduct a thorough investigation and severely punish all corrupt officials to rectify Yongzhou's administration. Ren Rusong was perplexed, as the impeached officials were from Feng Ju's own faction.

Feng Lanxi, however, deduced that Feng Ju was leveraging the anti-corruption drive to gain favor and shed undesirable associates, effectively "killing two birds with one stone." He also noted Yu Wuyuan's close association with Feng Ju, recognizing Yu Wuyuan as an aide to Huang Chao of Jizhou. Feng Lanxi suspected Yu Wuyuan was orchestrating a deeper plot to instigate internal unrest in Yongzhou, rather than simply assisting Feng Ju. He cautioned his officials to be vigilant.

Soon after, Feng Ju frantically reported to the Yong King that the royal treasury had been robbed, with all the ledgers also missing. The King was furious, finding the timing suspiciously convenient, given his recent order for an anti-corruption investigation. Feng Ju, with feigned hesitation, implicated Zhou Zhong, a Vice Minister of Revenue, as a suspect.

He highlighted Zhou Zhong's familial ties to the Feng family, his responsibility for the treasury as manager of the finance and warehouse departments, and the fact that Zhou Zhong was seen meeting privately with Feng Qiwu and Feng Lanxi after the previous day's court assembly. The Yong King, suspicious, ordered Zhou Zhong's immediate arrest and thorough interrogation. Upon hearing the news, Feng Qiwu rushed to Feng Lanxi, strongly vouching for Zhou Zhong's integrity and asserting his incorruptibility.

Feng Lanxi instructed her to uncover the truth before Feng Ju could solidify his case, emphasizing that this was their only opportunity. He advised her to discreetly visit Zhou Zhong in the dungeon, urging him to reveal everything truthfully and resist any coercion into making false confessions. However, on her way to the dungeon, Feng Qiwu was ambushed by Yu Wuyuan, who forced her to consume a blue pill, causing a strange poison to disrupt her yin and yang energies.

Yu Wuyuan declared his intention to use her body to obtain the Sacred Jade Moon. Feng Qiwu's maid quickly informed Feng Lanxi of the attack. Feng Lanxi immediately went to her side, explaining that the unusual poison she suffered required the combined powers of pure yin and pure yang to counteract, necessitating Bai Fengxi's Sacred Jade Moon power.

As Bai Fengxi prepared to leave, Feng Lanxi hesitated, mentioning that Feng Qiwu had once "admired" him, seemingly to preempt any potential misunderstandings. Bai Fengxi, however, dismissed his words, prioritizing saving a life. She bravely used her internal energy to draw the poison from Feng Qiwu, injuring her own internal force in the process. Feng Lanxi scolded her for her recklessness, but Bai Fengxi assured him that she knew her limits and acted out of righteous duty.

After they both calmed down, Feng Lanxi deduced that the attacker's true motive was to test whether he and Bai Fengxi possessed and could utilize the Sacred Jade Moon by targeting Feng Qiwu with a poison that specifically required its power for an antidote. He insisted that for their safety, they must remain together, never separating, and always look out for each other. Feng Qiwu soon regained consciousness. Bai Fengxi, accompanied by Feng Lanxi, visited her.

Bai Fengxi complimented Feng Qiwu's beauty and name but playfully teased her about her "poor eyesight" for once admiring the "cunning Black Foxy" (Feng Lanxi), which Feng Qiwu confirmed. Feng Qiwu thanked Bai Fengxi for saving her life. Bai Fengxi then introduced herself as Bai Fengxi of the Tianshuang Sect, and Feng Qiwu, recognizing her reputation as a heroine, expressed her respect.

Feng Qiwu admitted she could not recall the attacker's appearance and expressed worry that Prince Ju would exploit this situation to harm the Feng family. Moved by her predicament and their shared goal of remaining together, Bai Fengxi offered her help. Feng Lanxi agreed, entrusting the investigation of the treasury theft to himself and Bai Fengxi while Feng Qiwu recovered, though acknowledging her valuable intelligence.

To facilitate their joint investigation while respecting court protocols, they decided to stay at the Feng family residence for a few days. Meanwhile, Zhong Li reported to Bai Jiande, Bai Fengxi's master, that their investigation into the fake Empyrean Token had yielded new clues. Gongye Zhi, a renowned ironsmith from the Imperial City, had disappeared around the time the fake token emerged, and evidence suggested he was likely one of the Token Keepers.

This indicated that the mastermind behind these events might also be among the Token Keepers. Zhong Li cautioned Bai Jiande about the gravity and potential danger of the case. Later, Feng Lanxi and Bai Fengxi, in disguise, infiltrated the royal treasury under the cover of night to search for clues.

They found it peculiar that not only a significant amount of silver but also old ledgers were stolen, as this played perfectly into Feng Ju's accusation of Zhou Zhong orchestrating an inside job. Feng Lanxi explained that due to the height of the shelves, ledgers were typically placed using a long ladder. Even with his advanced Qinggong, he would need assistance to reach the highest shelves.

He observed two handprints but no other marks of support, leading Bai Fengxi to playfully suggest a giant or demon was responsible. Feng Lanxi countered that it was more likely several individuals stacking on top of each other, creating the illusion of a towering figure. Bai Fengxi was impressed by his deductive reasoning. When asked how many people were involved, Feng Lanxi explained that if the sole purpose was to frame Zhou Zhong, only the ledgers would have been taken.

The theft of 10,000 taels of silver leaves, weighing approximately 625 jin, implied that about five individuals were involved, driven by the temptation of the treasure itself. They also discovered fresh sealing wax fragments on a wooden frame, noting its unique composition as a promising new lead. Separately, Yu Wuyuan extracted a jade stone from Feng Qiwu's body, absorbing the power of the Sacred Jade Moon to temporarily suppress his blood curse.

However, he realized that he would still need to control the Empyrean Token to permanently resolve his condition. His subordinate inquired if they should now leave Yongzhou, but Yu Wuyuan decided to remain longer, eager to observe how Feng Lanxi would unravel the current predicament. He also saw an opportunity to eliminate Feng Lanxi if the circumstances allowed.

Episode 21 Recap

After absorbing the power of the Sacred Jade Moon to temporarily suppress his blood curse, Yu Wuyuan's subordinate congratulated him. Yu Wuyuan stated that he still needed to control the Empyrean Token to completely remove the curse and that his subordinate was already secretly preparing to rebuild the Locust army. Though his divine skill was now acquired, Yu Wuyuan decided not to leave Yongzhou yet.

He wanted to observe how Feng Lanxi would solve the current predicament, noting that if an opportunity arose, he might as well eliminate Feng Lanxi. Feng Qiwu praised Bai Fengxi, not only for her formidable martial arts skills but also for her talent in solving cases. Bai Fengxi pondered how the culprits could have transported the large mechanisms back into the city without being detected, given Yongzhou's tight security.

Before Feng Lanxi could offer his thoughts, Feng Qiwu swiftly analyzed that during festive seasons, performing troupes from surrounding cities would enter the capital, bringing their costumes and stage equipment. She suggested the mechanisms could have been hidden among these items. Since troupes usually stayed until after the Lantern Festival, the stolen treasury money must still be in their possession.

Feng Qiwu elaborated that the culpable troupes would likely be small, not well-established, and would reside in secluded courtyards rather than inns, making them easier to track. Feng Lanxi agreed with her reasoning and immediately dispatched his men to locate such troupes. Meanwhile, Bai Fengxi and Feng Qiwu, having reached similar conclusions, continued their conversation without much heed for Feng Lanxi's input. Later, Bai Fengxi and Feng Qiwu explored the bustling market, where they picked out hairpins for each other.

Feng Lanxi followed them discreetly, feeling somewhat redundant. Zhong Li took the opportunity to remind Feng Lanxi of romance novels, where scholars would put aside their pride to win the hearts of beautiful women. He even prepared a mask for Feng Lanxi, hoping he would join Bai Fengxi in a dance, but Feng Lanxi, ever proud, refused to admit his intentions. Eventually, encouraged by Bai Fengxi, Feng Qiwu bravely put on a mask and joined the Magpie Bridge Dance.

Feng Lanxi, still in pursuit, encountered Bai Fengxi in the dance. They shared a brief dance, after which he shyly and hastily departed, much to Bai Fengxi's amusement. The next day, Feng Lanxi visited Feng Qiwu, noticing she had only prepared food that Bai Fengxi favored, which made him feel a little awkward. He revealed that his investigations had narrowed down the suspects to the Dafu Troupe in the south of the city, which matched their criteria.

Feng Qiwu expressed concern about investigating openly, but Bai Fengxi suggested they could do so legitimately, with Feng Lanxi's help. Thus, they went undercover, dressed as commoners—Feng Lanxi as "Mu Feng" and Bai Fengxi as his maid "Xiao Xi"—to learn performing arts at the Dafu Troupe. To gain the troupe leader's trust, Feng Lanxi spontaneously showcased his impressive singing skills, dazzling everyone present.

The troupe leader, secretly harboring suspicions, agreed to let "Mu Feng" and "Xiao Xi" stay, planning to use Feng Lanxi to provide cover for their operations. He also thought that if Feng Lanxi and Bai Fengxi were government agents, the troupe grounds would become their burial place. That night, Bai Fengxi, dressed in black and masked, stealthily entered the troupe leader's quarters to search for clues.

However, the troupe leader was about to return to his room and spotted her leaping out of the window. The leader, along with other troupe members, then stormed into Feng Lanxi's room, demanding to know Bai Fengxi's whereabouts. They eventually found her hiding in a cabinet, looking startled.

Thinking quickly, Bai Fengxi fabricated a story: she introduced herself as Li Yulan, daughter of the Li family from Suicheng, and Feng Lanxi, "Mu Feng," as her husband, Shang Yunhai, a renowned actor from the Qingyan Troupe. She claimed they were deeply in love but eloped because her father disapproved, seeking refuge in Yongzhou under false identities.

Coincidentally, one of the troupe members had heard of Shang Yunhai and the story of his elopement with a young lady from Suicheng about a month ago. This unexpected corroboration dispelled the troupe leader's suspicions. Over the next two days, Bai Fengxi and Feng Lanxi maintained their guise as a loving, eloped couple. Bai Fengxi, observing the old, dusty structure, realized the stolen treasury money was likely hidden on the roof.

She and Feng Lanxi then ascended to the rooftop, lifted some tiles, and indeed discovered the hidden money. Feng Lanxi immediately ordered Zhong Li to arrest the troupe members. However, the suspects had already coordinated their testimonies, making it impossible to extract any useful information. To make matters worse, news arrived from the Ministry of Justice that Prince Ju had found sufficient evidence to convict Vice Minister Zhou by the next day's court assembly.

With time running out, Bai Fengxi conceived a desperate plan. She pretended to order the execution of the uncooperative troupe members one by one. Terrified, the troupe leader immediately confessed that their accomplice was Li Mu, a Chamberlain in the Ministry of Revenue's finance department. Feng Qiwu couldn't help but praise Bai Fengxi, marveling at her as a truly extraordinary woman—unconventional and defiant of etiquette, yet more capable than many men, inspiring both admiration and envy.

Zhong Li promptly apprehended Li Mu and recovered the crucial ledger, proving Vice Minister Zhou's innocence. After the crisis, Feng Lanxi, still reflecting on their earlier conversation, asked Zhong Li, who had read numerous romance novels, to elaborate on how protagonists expressed their feelings. Zhong Li detailed the three key elements: mood, romantic words, and a love token. However, Feng Lanxi's mind consistently translated these concepts into military strategies, such as ambushes, main forces, and recruiting surrendered generals.

Observing his master's purely tactical interpretations, Zhong Li eventually despaired, concluding that Feng Lanxi's mind, preoccupied with battlefields, was far removed from matters of love. During the morning court assembly, Feng Qiwu reported to the Yong King that her recent attack was related to her investigation into the treasury theft.

She revealed that the true culprit behind the embezzlement and theft was not Vice Minister Zhou but Li Mu, the Chamberlain of the Ministry of Revenue's finance department, who had conspired with the three corrupt officials arrested by Prince Ju. Li Mu had framed Zhou Zhong out of fear of exposure. Feng Qiwu presented the recovered stolen treasury money, which had been transported outside the hall, along with evidence and Li Mu's confession.

Prince Ju, enraged, accused Feng Qiwu of attempting to absolve Zhou Zhong by belatedly presenting the stolen goods and finding a scapegoat. However, the Yong King, greatly pleased by the recovery of the treasury funds, declared Feng Qiwu's actions a significant achievement. Recognizing that she had investigated without royal decree, he balanced her merit against her transgression, forgiving her unauthorized actions.

He then ordered both Feng Qiwu and Prince Ju to jointly conduct a thorough investigation into the corruption case within the Ministry of Revenue. At his residence, Yu Wuyuan's subordinate informed him that Prince Ju was rushing towards them after the court assembly, likely in a furious state. Yu Wuyuan remained unfazed, explaining that Feng Lanxi had not seen through his scheme but had merely fallen into his trap.

He had deliberately allowed Feng Lanxi to succeed in this round to make him lower his guard. The treasury theft, Yu Wuyuan revealed, was merely a diversion. His ultimate goal was to utterly dismantle Feng Lanxi and eradicate the Fountain Abode, thereby stripping Feng Lanxi of any eligibility to contend for the rule of the land.

When Feng Ju arrived, fuming that the plan Yu Wuyuan had set for him had been "discovered" by Feng Lanxi, he demanded to know if Yu Wuyuan had any other brilliant strategies. To compensate for the perceived setback, Yu Wuyuan offered to help Feng Ju achieve his ambition of becoming the Heir Apparent.

He explained that since Feng Lanxi was the legitimate eldest son and older than Prince Ju, there was only one path to the position of heir: making the Yong King wary of Feng Lanxi. Yu Wuyuan reasoned that the King, a master of balance, would never allow an heir to become stronger than himself.

He then presented Feng Ju with a sachet containing strategies to use against Feng Lanxi, instructing him to open it only when Feng Lanxi left the capital. Yu Wuyuan also requested Feng Ju's cooperation in staging a "performance."

Episode 22 Recap

Ren Rusong presented his findings on Liangcheng to Prince Lanxi. He revealed that Liangcheng, situated at the border of Yongzhou and Qingzhou and surrounded by rapid waters, was a strategic military training ground. However, it was firmly controlled by military commissioner Yu Ming, making it difficult for royal decrees to be implemented smoothly. Yu Ming had proposed building a dam on the upstream rapid waters to solidify his control, but this project was merely a slow-moving facade.

Ren Rusong advised Prince Lanxi that eliminating Yu Ming was the prerequisite for entering Liangcheng. Prince Lanxi affirmed his determination to proceed to Liangcheng despite the difficulties. He acknowledged the rule forbidding princes from forming vassal states or leaving the capital and planned to use the upcoming spring tide, in conjunction with Yu Ming's fake dam project, as his opportunity to depart. Zhong Li then reported that Prince Ju had visited Yu Wuyuan after the morning court.

Prince Ju left shortly after, appearing displeased, which suggested a possible fallout with Yu Wuyuan. Immediately after, Yu Wuyuan was seen leaving the capital of Yongzhou with his servants. Prince Lanxi, however, was not easily fooled. He reasoned that Yu Wuyuan was not one to admit defeat so readily, and the numerous loopholes in the recent treasury theft case did not align with Yu Wuyuan's usual meticulous methods.

Prince Lanxi suspected that Prince Ju’s relentless entanglement had forced Yu Wuyuan to make a strategic departure. He instructed Zhong Li to continue monitoring Prince Ju, anticipating that he would devise new schemes in Yu Wuyuan's absence. It was revealed that earlier, Yu Wuyuan had advised Prince Ju that the only way to become the heir apparent was to make the King wary of Prince Lanxi, as the King would not allow his heir to outshine him.

Yu Wuyuan had promised Prince Ju a sachet containing methods to defeat Prince Lanxi, to be opened only after Prince Lanxi left the capital. He also requested Prince Ju to cooperate in a staged performance. That night, Bai Jiande, the leader of the Tianshuang Sect, convened a secret meeting with two other Token Keepers: Zeng Jiuhai, the Head of Escort of the Jiuhai Security Escort of Jizhou, and Qian Henian, the owner of the Xiangyun Wares of Beizhou.

Bai Jiande explained that someone was using fake Empyrean Tokens to sow chaos throughout the realm. He revealed that a fake token had previously been given to him, and another was acquired by Bai Fengxi and later handed to the heir of Jizhou, Huang Chao, only to be stolen en route to the Imperial City.

Through his covert investigation, aided by Prince Lanxi's intelligence from Hidden Spring Pavilion, Bai Jiande discovered that Gongye Zhi, an ironsmith and fellow Token Keeper, had gone missing. He suspected Gongye Zhi of forging these fake tokens, possibly in collusion with another Token Keeper. Bai Jiande sought their assistance in identifying the remaining Token Keepers to uncover the truth. Both men pledged their support, vowing not to stand idly by.

As the first snow fell, Zhong Li suggested to Prince Lanxi that it was an opportune moment for a romantic confession, reassuring him that Bai Fengxi likely harbored feelings for him. Despite feeling a touch of nervousness, Prince Lanxi denied it and instructed Zhong Li to invite her over. Unbeknownst to him, Bai Fengxi was enjoying Qingzhou's hot pot, known as "To Dine On Dusk," with Feng Qiwu. Feng Qiwu, accustomed to a milder diet, found the dish surprisingly flavorful.

Noticing Bai Fengxi's deep familiarity with the dish, Feng Qiwu inquired if she was from Qingzhou. Bai Fengxi confirmed she was, proudly stating that "Feng" was the national surname of Qingzhou. Feng Qiwu lauded Qingzhou as a land of remarkable heroines, from the founding Lord Feng to Princess Xiyun, and now Bai Fengxi herself. Bai Fengxi, however, asserted her belief in universal equality, particularly between men and women, emphasizing everyone's right to pursue their desires.

Their conversation flowed, and they enthusiastically agreed to dress as men the following day to ride horses in the wild and explore courtesan houses, free from societal constraints. Prince Lanxi waited for Bai Fengxi, but she never arrived. Zhong Li returned with news that Bai Fengxi had spent the entire day with Feng Qiwu, strolling through the streets, indulging in hot pot, watching an opera, and returning home only after dinner.

Prince Lanxi was annoyed by her eventful day and his missed opportunity. Zhong Li, undeterred, advised Prince Lanxi not to be disheartened, reminding him of other upcoming festivals and the possibility of creating their own romantic moments. Inspired by a storybook, Prince Lanxi decided to invite Bai Fengxi to his residence to watch fireworks. He meticulously arranged everything, awaiting her arrival. However, as night fell, Bai Fengxi was nowhere to be seen.

Zhong Li investigated and reported that Bai Fengxi and Feng Qiwu, disguised in men's attire, had entered the Xiangle Parlor and remained inside. Furious, Prince Lanxi rushed to the parlor. Inside, the renowned courtesan Shao Yin was hosting a poetry contest, with the prize being a night in her company. Driven by curiosity, Bai Fengxi penned a poem that earned widespread acclaim and Shao Yin's favor.

Shao Yin invited Bai Fengxi to her private chambers, but Bai Fengxi, recalling her forgotten appointment, hastily declined and departed with Feng Qiwu. Prince Lanxi arrived just as the poetry contest concluded. Without a word, he forcefully pulled Bai Fengxi out of the parlor, expressing his anger that she never took his warnings about the Lan Yin Bi Yue and the dangers of places like brothels seriously.

Bai Fengxi, realizing his distress, attempted to placate him with a playful remark, but then got angry when he yelled at her, claiming her guilt had vanished and he had hurt her pride. Prince Lanxi tried to calm her, and Zhong Li, seeing an opening, immediately ordered the fireworks to be lit. Seizing the moment, Prince Lanxi put his arm around Bai Fengxi's shoulder. Unexpectedly, she reciprocated, placing her hand on his shoulder like a comrade rather than a lover.

She then casually dismissed the fireworks as a "cliche trope from storybooks," oblivious to Prince Lanxi's darkening expression. Exasperated and embarrassed, Prince Lanxi stormed back to his room, leaving Bai Fengxi alone, who belatedly realized the fireworks had been carefully prepared for her. Despite the failure of his snowy night fireworks plan, Prince Lanxi refused to give up. He instructed Zhong Li to bring him numerous storybooks, hoping to find new romantic ideas.

He ultimately decided to invite Bai Fengxi to admire lanterns on the Lantern Festival night. Miss Huan, serving tea, overheard their conversation and appeared thoughtful before quietly leaving. From that day onward, Bai Fengxi seemed preoccupied, often replaying the events of that night in her mind, even during a game of chess with Feng Qiwu.

Feng Qiwu, recognizing Bai Fengxi's unique spirit and fully acknowledging that her own relationship with Prince Lanxi was purely one of subject and ruler, decided to subtly encourage Bai Fengxi. She teasingly pointed out that even when Bai Fengxi listed Prince Lanxi's flaws—his calculative nature, overbearing control, and cold demeanor—her eyes sparkled with a smile, revealing her true feelings. Bai Fengxi, flushed with embarrassment, admitted her realization but hesitated to make the first move, citing the importance of timing.

Feng Qiwu reminded her that Prince Lanxi had searched for her all day on the first snow, suggesting his earnestness. She pressed Bai Fengxi on how she would respond if Prince Lanxi confessed his feelings again, leading Bai Fengxi to blush and inwardly fantasize about such a scenario, finally feeling a sense of relief and anticipation. Concerned for Prince Lanxi's future, Miss Huan approached Ren Rusong.

She informed him of Prince Lanxi's unwavering determination to marry Bai Fengxi, regardless of the obstacles. She urged Ren Rusong to discreetly meet with Bai Jiande, Bai Fengxi's master, to persuade Bai Fengxi to withdraw. Ren Rusong initially refused, unwilling to act against Prince Lanxi's wishes. However, Miss Huan had already taken matters into her own hands and sent an invitation to Bai Jiande in Ren Rusong's name.

Although Ren Rusong was furious at her audacity, he was compelled to agree when Miss Huan invoked the late queen's dying wish for him to protect Prince Lanxi. After much deliberation, Ren Rusong met with Bai Jiande at the Pagoda Tree Estate. He directly stated his purpose: to discuss Bai Fengxi.

He pointed out that while the Tianshuang Sect was a renowned martial arts school, it was still a part of the jianghu, making it difficult for Bai Fengxi to marry into the royal family. Furthermore, he suggested that Bai Fengxi, being accustomed to a carefree life, would struggle to adapt to the constraints of a royal consort. Bai Jiande understood Ren Rusong's clear intention to separate Prince Lanxi and Bai Fengxi.

Episode 23 Recap

Chancellor Ren Rusong visited Bai Jiande, expressing his concern about the growing affection between Bai Fengxi and Feng Lanxi. He argued that despite the Tianshuang Sect's reputation, Bai Fengxi's martial arts background and carefree nature made her unsuitable for the noble life awaiting Prince Yongping. He suggested that Bai Jiande should intervene and separate them for their own good. Bai Jiande, however, believed that young people should resolve their own matters and assured Ren Rusong that he needn't worry.

Ren Rusong, viewing martial artists as mere civilians, urged Bai Jiande to reconsider. Upon returning to her courtyard, Bai Fengxi was deep in thought about Feng Lanxi's impending confession when Langhua informed her of Chancellor Ren's visit to her father, urging him to keep her from interacting with Feng Lanxi. Bai Fengxi already knew about the interference.

Soon after, Zhong Li arrived, delivering an invitation from Feng Lanxi to meet by the river on Lantern Festival night, making Bai Fengxi realize that Feng Lanxi was still unaware of Ren Rusong's actions. Bai Fengxi then visited Ren Rusong, presenting him with a rare Nimbus Liquor, personally brewed by Old Taiyin of Mount Wu.

She explained that she and Feng Lanxi obtained this liquor after overcoming numerous perilous trials on Mount Wu, highlighting how few people could achieve such a feat with him. She questioned Ren Rusong's insistence on matching social status for love and marriage, asserting that true love is about two fated individuals sharing cherished moments.

She then probed into the political landscape, questioning if Yongzhou could truly remain stable among the Six States and whether Feng Lanxi could genuinely secure his position through marriage alone. Ren Rusong acknowledged her insightful remarks and admitted that he might have overstepped. Back at Feng Lanxi's residence, Zhong Li reported that Bai Fengxi had left hurriedly without a firm answer to the Lantern Festival invitation, but was seen heading to Chancellor Ren's residence. Feng Lanxi wondered why.

Shortly after, Ren Rusong arrived to apologize, confessing that he had advised Bai Jiande to keep Bai Fengxi from Feng Lanxi, citing the social disparity between a martial artist and a noble. He justified his actions by mentioning the late Queen's trust in him regarding Feng Lanxi's marriage. Feng Lanxi was furious, reminding Ren Rusong that he had strictly forbidden interference in Bai Fengxi's affairs.

Ren Rusong argued that Bai Fengxi's civilian status was inferior to Feng Lanxi's noble standing, especially since Feng Lanxi was not yet the heir. As Ren Rusong offered to accept punishment, Feng Lanxi noticed Huan Niang's visible distress, realizing she had instigated Ren Rusong. He dismissed Ren Rusong, then ordered Huan Niang to leave the residence the next morning, rejecting her pleas and explanations, stating her actions amounted to treason.

Zhong Li was instructed to provide her with a generous sum and ensure her safe return home, establishing a shop for her livelihood and advising her to live freely, unentangled in his affairs. On Lantern Festival night, Feng Lanxi met Bai Fengxi to apologize for Ren Rusong's interference. Bai Fengxi expressed annoyance that his invitation was merely for an apology.

Feng Lanxi then tried to express his deeper feelings while they admired the lanterns, but was interrupted by Chuanyun, who arrived with an urgent report. Noticing the urgency, Bai Fengxi told him to attend to his matters. She then discovered a lantern he had prepared with a poem reading, "I seek only to have your heart, Till our hair turns white, we won't part," touched by his thoughtfulness. Meanwhile, the Yong King convened his ministers regarding the impending spring tide.

Military commissioner Yu Ming, to prevent flooding, had diverted water to Qingzhou. Prince Xieyue of Qingzhou, in response, stationed troops fifty "li" outside Liangcheng, leading Yu Ming to seek aid from Yongzhou. Minister Wang suggested letting the two states weaken each other, but Minister Qin countered that this would harm the people of Liangcheng and proposed sending troops to reclaim the city.

Feng Lanxi then sought an audience with the Yong King, offering to go to Liangcheng and build a dam based on his expertise from the Ministry of Works. Minister Wang opposed, citing the late king's rule against princes leaving the capital to establish garrisons. Minister Qin supported Feng Lanxi, arguing it was for the greater good of Yongzhou. The Yong King agreed, ordering Feng Lanxi to depart with 500 soldiers the next morning.

Queen Baili was concerned by the Yong King's decision to break the ancestral rule for Feng Lanxi, fearing he might seize military and political power in Liangcheng. However, she believed Feng Lanxi, despite his cunning, would likely be outmatched by the experienced military commissioner Yu Ming. Separately, Bai Fengxi received a letter hinting at trouble in Qingzhou, including troops stationed at Liangcheng, and decided she must go to Liangcheng, obtaining her master Bai Jiande's permission.

Feng Lanxi's journey with his 500 soldiers began. Chuanyun noted that instead of elite troops, they had been given a band of unruly men. Feng Lanxi deduced this was his father's doing, suspecting two motives: either the Yong King sought to provoke a war with Qingzhou, using Liangcheng's vulnerability as an excuse, or his inherent paranoia led him to weaken Feng Lanxi's forces to prevent him from establishing an independent power base. Bai Fengxi soon appeared, joining Feng Lanxi.

She remarked on the strong will of his seemingly undisciplined soldiers, recognizing them as battle-hardened veterans. Though Feng Lanxi acknowledged her perceptive observations, he kept his true intentions regarding Liangcheng a secret. Feng Ju received news of Feng Lanxi's departure and eagerly opened a sachet from Yu Wuyuan, revealing that Feng Lanxi was, in fact, Hei Fengxi of the Fountain Abode. Queen Baili's spy confirmed this, shocking her.

Realizing Feng Lanxi's hidden power, she resolved to find a way to expose his trump card. The journey was plagued by heavy rain, causing the soldiers to complain and threaten to quit. Feng Lanxi dismounted from his carriage, acknowledging the difficult, muddy terrain, and led by example, walking ahead to clear the path, inspiring the disheartened troops. Meanwhile, Yu Wuyuan informed Huang Chao that Feng Lanxi was Hei Fengxi.

Huang Chao found this revelation made the struggle for power across the land much more engaging. He shared his plan to secure an alliance with Youzhou by marrying Princess Hua Chunran, but stressed the need to resolve internal issues in Jizhou first, requesting Yu Wuyuan's assistance. News of Princess Hua Chunran's marriage proposal spread, attracting suitors from all states except Yongzhou. Huang Chao's personal attendance made Hua Chunran realize his true ambition was Youzhou itself, not her.

She wished to remain in Youzhou, inspired by Qingzhou's female founder, and knew Huang Chao was not her ideal match, prompting her to devise a strategy, considering a sarira recently presented to her father as a potential opportunity. Later, during their arduous march, a sudden mountain collapse endangered the troops. Feng Lanxi bravely led the rescue, earning the soldiers' complete loyalty. Bai Fengxi treated his injuries, and he offered her the warmer shelter while he joined the soldiers.

She advised him against this, warning that sharing their sleeping arrangements would diminish his authority and reminding him to maintain proper command etiquette. Insisting on her martial arts ways, she eventually claimed the comfortable bed for herself, leaving him the floor. Despite the hard journey, Feng Lanxi found joy in her presence, deeming these days the most beautiful. The next morning, a flock of ravens appeared, unsettling the soldiers who saw it as a bad omen. However, Bai Fengxi saw it as an opportunity for Feng Lanxi to establish his authority and command their respect, akin to historical figures who used such events to their advantage.

Episode 24 Recap

As the army was on the march, a flock of ravens suddenly appeared, causing the soldiers to fear it was a bad omen. Bai Fengxi, however, saw it as an opportunity for Feng Lanxi to command their respect. She reminded him of historical figures who used perceived omens to their advantage, like Chen Sheng and Wu Guang, who hid notes in fish, or Liu Bang, who killed a white snake, to establish their authority.

Feng Lanxi then addressed his worried troops, reframing the ravens not as a bad sign, but as an "updraft" and a "song of war." He cited Emperor Wu of Zhou, under whom the Zhou dynasty prospered after ravens gathered at his palace. Emulating Liu Bang, he declared that if he was destined to conquer Liangcheng and the world, his sword would receive a sign. He then swung his sword, cutting a feather from a raven, and the flock immediately dispersed.

The cheering soldiers took this as a divine blessing, and Feng Lanxi named his new army the Moyu Cavalry, declaring their name would travel far and wide. Bai Fengxi noted how quickly he adapted to the situation. Meanwhile, in Liangcheng, the military commissioner, Yu Ming, received reports of continued provocations from the Qingzhou Army, which were beginning to dampen his soldiers' morale.

Yu Ming assured his subordinates that Qingzhou was merely applying pressure and had no intention of a full invasion. He revealed his true motive for requesting aid from Yongzhou: to "set an example" and secure his control over Liangcheng before the King of Yongzhou inevitably attempted to seize it. Despite being told that the arriving Prince Yongping, Feng Lanxi, was a formidable figure whom even Queen Baili and Prince Ju could not easily manipulate, Yu Ming scoffed.

He declared that in Liangcheng, a "strong dragon cannot overpower a local snake," asserting that Feng Lanxi, if a dragon, would be wise to "stay still," and if lesser, to "lay low." Upon learning that Feng Lanxi's army was only ten li away, Yu Ming decided to lead his officials to welcome them. Yu Ming expressed confusion as he greeted the arriving troops, noting barely a hundred soldiers, far fewer than the five hundred he was expecting.

He ordered the main contingent to remain in the western encampment. Zhong Li, posing as General Chuanyun, explained that a flash flood during their journey had significantly reduced their numbers, and the prince himself had fallen ill.

To justify the smaller retinue entering the city, Zhong Li claimed that the remaining men were personal servants disguised as soldiers, essential for Feng Lanxi's daily needs, and Yu Ming, distracted by the prospect of receiving large sums of silver, allowed them passage while sending the actual soldiers to the encampment. Later, the real Chuanyun reported to Feng Lanxi that the remuneration had been delivered to Yu Ming's residence and Moyu Cavalry were discreetly stationed outside.

Feng Lanxi then confirmed to Zhong Li that his ruse, anticipating Yu Ming's suspicious nature and greed, had worked perfectly. By spreading out the Moyu Cavalry outside the city and having a small, tired-looking group enter, they successfully infiltrated Liangcheng. Feng Lanxi then took Bai Fengxi to the Red Sea Snail Temple, a local temple dedicated to relationships. When asked what he wished to pray for, he revealed he sought a complete understanding of Liangcheng's water canals.

Bai Fengxi immediately observed that the canals, though appearing intricate, were in fact chaotically intertwined and incapable of preventing floods. Feng Lanxi expressed surprise at her knowledge of water management, noting that she always surprised him. Bai Fengxi lamented that even rerouting the canals to Qingzhou wouldn't solve the problem, and countless villagers would suffer during the spring floods due to the corrupt officials who disregarded their subjects' lives.

Concerned for her safety in the unstable city, Feng Lanxi gave her a protective charm he acquired from the temple, to which Bai Fengxi playfully commented on the deity of romance also providing protection. As they walked through Liangcheng, they noticed that prices were even higher than in the capital of Yongzhou, with a simple sesame ball costing five wen compared to three.

Feng Lanxi explained that Liangcheng, a border town with insufficient local crops, relied on small, expensive batches of imported goods. This, combined with disorganized labor and an underdeveloped trading market, was the true cause of the inflated prices. Bai Fengxi was deeply moved by the unbearable suffering of the common people. They witnessed men being forcefully conscripted to repair water canals.

A local shopkeeper told them that government funds intended for these projects never reached the workers, who toiled day and night without pay. Seeing this injustice, Bai Fengxi vowed to assist Feng Lanxi should he decide to eliminate the city's corrupt officials. To further ascertain Feng Lanxi's supposed weakness, Yu Ming personally delivered tonics to his residence.

He asked about Feng Lanxi's illness, to which Feng Lanxi, now having replaced Zhong Li, claimed to suffer from emphysema since childhood, exacerbated by the difficult journey to Liangcheng. Yu Ming also presented Feng Lanxi with the commander's tally and military seal, effectively offering him control of Liangcheng. Feng Lanxi, feigning humility, declined, stating that his father merely sent him to "support Liangcheng" and that Yu Ming would remain the Southern Military Commissioner.

After Yu Ming left, Feng Lanxi commented to his men on Yu Ming's cunning "test," acknowledging that his timely return prevented their plan from being exposed. He immediately ordered Zhong Li to deploy secret agents to quickly map out Liangcheng's defenses. Meanwhile, Yu Ming found Feng Lanxi's refusal of the military power highly suspicious.

He pondered that no "dog" would refuse a "steamy meat bun," concluding that Feng Lanxi was either genuinely ill, or, more likely, a "wolf" with greater ambitions, not merely content with what was offered. He instructed his subordinates to continue their investigation into Feng Lanxi's true nature. Separately, Wang Shuilong informed Bai Jiande that Zeng Jiuhai had been murdered.

Bai Jiande deduced that the person forging the fake Empyrean Tokens must be one of the Token Keepers, and Zeng Jiuhai was likely silenced for discovering a clue. Wang Shuilong also recovered Zeng Jiuhai's luggage, which contained a piece of spectacular Han White Marble jade—an item of such quality that only a high-ranking individual in the Imperial City could possess. This discovery prompted Bai Jiande to travel to the Imperial City for further investigation.

Meanwhile, Yu Wuyuan received intelligence that Yan Ling, a follower of Grand Tutor Ran, was leading a faction preparing for a revolt in Jizhou. He also learned that the Token Keepers had discovered his involvement, but his spies in the capital of Yongzhou had dealt with them. Yu Wuyuan acknowledged that his plan to use fake Empyrean Tokens to sow chaos, which he had proposed to the Emperor, was disrupted by Bai Fengxi.

He surmised that one of the three fake tokens must have fallen into the hands of the Token Keepers, leading to their early discovery. Determined to proceed, he resolved to "expedite the execution" of his plans. Despite having his blood curse temporarily suppressed and his Ju Xu Army growing, Yu Wuyuan dismissed suggestions to abandon Huang Chao. He saw Huang Chao, with his talent and ambition, as the "key" to unlocking the world's current stalemate.

Yu Wuyuan intended to help Huang Chao unite Jizhou, believing that this would inevitably lead him to conquer the entire world, a war that no one could stop. When his subordinate voiced concerns about Huang Chao becoming too powerful to control, Yu Wuyuan confidently stated that a stronger Huang Chao would only create more enemies, making his enemies' enemies their allies.

He declared that if Huang Chao was destined to be a great ruler, then he himself would be the silent power behind the throne, asserting that one need not sit on the throne to control the world. Days later, Yu Ming received more letters from Yongzhou describing Feng Lanxi as intelligent but physically weak, often manipulated by Queen Baili.

Finding the complete consistency of these reports suspicious, Yu Ming decided to host a banquet under the guise of "boosting morale" to further test Feng Lanxi. Feng Lanxi, upon receiving the invitation, recognized it as a "Hongmen Banquet" but declared it the "opening" he needed, instructing Chuanyun to prepare. Bai Fengxi insisted on accompanying him, and Feng Lanxi agreed. At the feast, Feng Lanxi was immediately pressed to drink by the attending officials.

He teasingly pulled Bai Fengxi onto his lap, instructing her to drink on his behalf. Yu Ming, offering a special local brew, then toasted Feng Lanxi. After drinking, Feng Lanxi began to feel dizzy, realizing the wine contained "Thousand Days of Stupor" and Yu Ming's true intention was to control him with "devil's trumpet" and turn him into a puppet. However, Feng Lanxi had suppressed the poison with his inner force.

Just as Yu Ming began to gloat, a Moyu Cavalry officer announced that they had breached the city defenses and the Liangcheng Army had surrendered. Yu Ming, stunned by his own miscalculation, attempted to bargain, offering his continued aid in governing Liangcheng due to his familiarity with the city. Bai Fengxi, however, condemned his "familiarity" as exploiting commoners and his "governance" as built on deceit. Declaring that he "deserved to die," she swiftly struck him down with her sword.

Feng Lanxi then addressed the remaining officials, reminding them he was new to Liangcheng's affairs and seeking their full cooperation, to which they pledged their absolute loyalty. In Dadong, Princess Hua Chunran arrived at the Imperial Palace's Lotus Palace to present Buddha's sarira. Locals observed her arrival with great excitement, believing her mission and the sarira would bring peace to the empire. As Hua Chunran presented the relic to the Emperor, the lotus flowers in the palace gardens miraculously bloomed.

The delighted Emperor proclaimed that with a sacred maiden delivering the sarira and lotuses blooming, the Dadong Empire was indeed blessed. He ordered this joyous news be announced throughout the land and bestowed upon Hua Chunran the title of "the Divine Fairy of Dadong Empire" for her meritorious service. Later, Hua Chunran revealed to her attendant that the blossoming lotuses were merely a trick; she had arranged for a eunuch to force the buds open beforehand.

Her attendant questioned why she went to such lengths, even traveling to the Imperial City on foot, despite her beauty already attracting many suitors, including Prince Huang Chao. Hua Chunran explained that to truly embody the title of Divine Fairy, she needed more than just a royal decree; she needed the story to spread among the common people, who would exaggerate it, thereby cementing her reputation across the entire Dadong Empire.

She emphasized that only with such a prestigious title could she stand on "equal ground" with powerful figures like Huang Chao and gain the leverage she desired. She dismissed Huang Chao as "not my concern."

Episode 25 Recap

Hua Chunran insisted on being titled the Divine Fairy of Dadong, believing it was the only way to stand on equal footing and gain leverage, making even Huang Chao's power seem insignificant to her. As children, Hua Chunran, Feng Lanxi, Feng Xiyun, and Huang Chao had known each other. Young Hua Chunran, eager to wear an imperial crown, once inquired about Lord Feng's prestigious Huang Crown, which was more distinguished than a standard Feng Crown.

Feng Lanxi gently explained that the Huang Crown had been sealed away centuries ago and could not be worn, even by the reigning Qing King. He suggested the Empress's Feng Crown, a symbol of beauty and status, would be more fitting for her. Young Feng Xiyun, meanwhile, was primarily focused on winning their games and collecting silver leaves for chicken drumsticks. Hua Chunran ultimately declared her ambition to become the most beautiful woman and wear the most splendid Feng Crown.

Years later, she wondered who would place that crown upon her head. Bai Fengxi, hearing of Hua Chunran's new title and marriage selection, marveled at her intelligence. She noted that as the Divine Fairy, Hua Chunran would not be outmatched by anyone, even if she were to marry Feng Lanxi or Huang Chao. Feng Lanxi, surprised by Bai Fengxi's knowledge of news typically reserved for royal courts, asked how she knew.

Bai Fengxi smoothly deflected, claiming it was common gossip in the martial arts world. She then teased Feng Lanxi, asserting that when he eventually met Princess Xiyun, his jaw would drop in surprise, as Princess Xiyun was far from his expectations and superior to Hua Chunran. Feng Lanxi, puzzled, questioned if Bai Fengxi truly thought Princess Xiyun was inferior to Hua Chunran, which Bai Fengxi vehemently denied before abruptly leaving.

Zhong Li, serving tea, observed Bai Fengxi's agitated state and astutely deduced that she was jealous. Feng Lanxi was delighted by this, seeing it as proof of Bai Fengxi's feelings for him. However, Zhong Li cautioned him, reminding him that jealousy, if left unaddressed, could escalate from minor spats to devastating conflicts. He stressed that Feng Lanxi must find a way to appease Bai Fengxi.

Zhong Li then shifted to urgent matters, reporting that Qingzhou's army was preparing for war and expected to advance on Liangcheng within days. Feng Lanxi lamented the seeming inevitability of conflict but expressed a strong desire for a peaceful resolution to prevent widespread suffering. He decided that the well-being of the people was paramount, overriding his King's command to wage war by invoking the principle that a general on the field may disregard the sovereign's orders.

He intended to write to Feng Xieyue, the Heir of Qingzhou, hoping their intentions aligned for a peaceful settlement. Nevertheless, he ordered the Moyu Cavalry to remain vigilant and ready for battle, and also inquired about the water canal blueprints for Liangcheng. Meanwhile, in the Qingzhou army camp, Feng Xieyue was preparing to attack Liangcheng, driven by concerns that the city's corrupt water management under the late Yu Ming would lead to flooding that could harm Qingzhou.

Suddenly, Bai Fengxi appeared, greeting him as "Brother," revealing her true identity as Princess Feng Xiyun. She explained her visit was to seek a truce, informing him that Yu Ming was dead and Feng Lanxi was now in charge of Liangcheng. She vouched for Feng Lanxi's competence in addressing the water issues and urged her brother to meet with him directly, emphasizing that war would bring no good to either Yongzhou or Qingzhou.

Convinced, Feng Xieyue agreed to send an envoy the following day and, offering a special Qingzhou liquor, persuaded Bai Fengxi to stay the night in the camp. Back in Liangcheng, Feng Lanxi was deeply regretful over Bai Fengxi's sudden departure, believing she was profoundly upset by his words about Princess Xiyun. He expressed his self-reproach to Zhong Li, who continued to advise him on how to reconcile according to romantic tales.

Unknown to Feng Lanxi, Bai Fengxi was happily sharing drinks and stories with her brother, Feng Xieyue. Feng Xieyue revealed that he always carried a flask of her favorite Qingzhou liquor, hoping to encounter her on his travels. Bai Fengxi inquired about their father, and Feng Xieyue shared that the King missed her greatly, feeling both pride and worry over her martial arts exploits.

He added that their father had refrained from publicly acknowledging her identity as Princess Feng Xiyun, to ensure her freedom to roam the martial arts world. Bai Fengxi expressed heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering love and support. Feng Xieyue, expressing surprise that Feng Lanxi was also the renowned Hei Fengxi, deemed them a suitable match. Bai Fengxi, however, cautioned him not to reveal her true identity to Feng Lanxi, as he remained unaware.

Feng Xieyue playfully teased her, noting her undeniable smile when speaking of Feng Lanxi, and declared his intention to assess Feng Lanxi as a potential brother-in-law. He jokingly threatened to "knock him into shape" and "warn" Feng Lanxi that she had strong backing, but Bai Fengxi quickly intervened, urging her brother not to make things difficult for Feng Lanxi, citing the greater importance of the truce between their states.

Feng Xieyue chuckled, teasing her about her obvious favoritism and vowing to give Feng Lanxi "tips" on how to handle her. They continued to enjoy their liquor. The next morning, Bai Fengxi returned to Liangcheng, ready to explain her overnight absence, expecting a reprimand from Feng Lanxi. Instead, Feng Lanxi greeted her with an outpouring of concern, offering her breakfast and assuring her that her whereabouts no longer mattered, only her safe return.

He declared that he understood her deep concern for "Feng Xiyun of Qingzhou" and promised never to mention that name again, as in his heart, there was only the free-spirited Bai Fengxi of the martial arts world, with no trace of Feng Xiyun left. Bai Fengxi realized that Feng Lanxi still did not know her true identity and misinterpreted his words as a pledge to protect her secret.

As Feng Lanxi leaned in, seemingly to kiss her, Chuanyu abruptly entered, interrupting the moment. Chuanyu announced that Feng Xieyue had sent an envoy and would arrive personally the next day to discuss a truce. Feng Lanxi immediately convened a meeting with his officials to discuss a two-pronged strategy: prepare for peace but also for war. He ordered the Liangcheng guards to be integrated into the Moyu Cavalry to reinforce the city gates against any potential Qingzhou assault.

Simultaneously, he commanded an ambush to be prepared around the Protectorate, ready to detain Feng Xieyue if he showed any treacherous intent. Feng Lanxi used the occasion to assert his authority, reminding the local officials that despite his troop deployment, they remained subjects of the Yong King and part of the Yongzhou court, subtly ensuring their loyalty.

Later, Feng Lanxi approached Bai Fengxi, reiterating his belief that her coldness stemmed from jealousy over his mention of Hua Chunran and Princess Xiyun. Realizing he was still oblivious to her true identity, Bai Fengxi confessed to being jealous over the past two days but asked him not to dwell on it, then quickly left. In Jizhou, the King was playing chess with Huang Chao when a subordinate reported unsettling news.

The King, infuriated, accused Huang Chao of being responsible for Grand Tutor Ran's death, accusing him of cruelty and a lack of kingly compassion, even calling him a "wolf" he had raised. Huang Chao defended himself, explaining that Grand Tutor Ran had colluded with other ministers and repeatedly slandered him, leaving him no choice but to act for the good of Jizhou. Their heated argument took a dark turn when the King suddenly collapsed, poisoned.

Thanks to Yu Wuyuan's swift administration of an antidote, the King's life was saved. Huang Chao, enraged, vowed vengeance against those who dared poison his father and attempt to frame him for patricide, aiming to install a new ruler. He ordered the Skyrider Cavalry to gather immediately, declaring a day of prayer for the King and Jizhou, to be followed by a "cleansing of the court" by executing the treacherous ministers.

Meanwhile, in Yongzhou, Feng Ju reported to the Yong King about the House of Jade, accusing it of tax evasion, illegal salt trade, and "plotting treason." He revealed its affiliation with the Fountain Abode, a notorious intelligence organization whose leader, Hei Fengxi, was one of the esteemed Four Gentry. Feng Ju expressed deep concern, highlighting that a network of shops across the land was secretly gathering intelligence, making its leader a formidable and terrifying force capable of instigating rebellion.

The Yong King acknowledged Hei Fengxi's capabilities, musing about the potential threat. Shifting the conversation, the King inquired about Feng Ju's marriage prospects. Feng Ju humbly deferred to his parents' wishes, prompting the King to officially betroth him to Duke Liang's daughter. After Feng Ju's departure, the Yong King secretly ordered Zhang Zhongge to thoroughly investigate the House of Jade for evidence of treason, with instructions to arrest its owner if sufficient proof was found.

However, he also expressed a desire to bring the Fountain Abode under his control rather than destroying such a valuable intelligence network. The day for the peace talks arrived. Bai Fengxi insisted on attending, claiming she wanted to witness Feng Xieyue's wise governance, much to Feng Lanxi's obvious jealousy. Feng Xieyue arrived alone at the Protectorate, a move that surprised Feng Lanxi but also showed confidence.

Feng Lanxi had Chuanyu confirm that his contingency plans were in place, with Moyu Cavalry at the gates and scouts monitoring Qingzhou's camp. Feng Lanxi and Feng Xieyue exchanged formal greetings, each praising the other's reputation. Feng Lanxi then unveiled his water conservancy plan for Liangcheng: a massive dam that would not only prevent floods and irrigate farmlands, benefiting countless people for generations, but also serve as a strategic defense, akin to tens of thousands of soldiers.

He explained his motivation was both for the public good, for the strength of Yongzhou, and for "someone he must protect." Feng Xieyue was deeply impressed, hailing Feng Lanxi as a wise and great leader. He readily agreed to withdraw his Qingzhou army the following day, stating that he too had "someone in this world worth protecting," casting a pointed glance at Bai Fengxi. Feng Lanxi, observing this, felt another pang of jealousy.

With the truce successfully negotiated, Feng Lanxi arranged for Zhong Li to settle Feng Xieyue into his accommodations. Later, he invited Bai Fengxi for a walk, but she politely declined, stating she would return to her room.

Episode 26 Recap

Bai Fengxi met with her elder brother, Prince Xieyue, who praised her taste in men, acknowledging Feng Lanxi as a wise ruler genuinely dedicated to his people. Prince Xieyue revealed his visit had two objectives: to conduct peace talks and to observe Feng Lanxi's true feelings for Bai Fengxi. He had noticed Feng Lanxi's constant, subtle attention towards Bai Fengxi during their discussions, concluding that Feng Lanxi genuinely cherished her.

Despite his concern that Feng Lanxi might uncover Bai Fengxi's true identity, Bai Fengxi remained unperturbed, believing Feng Lanxi, though sharp in all other matters, was endearingly oblivious when it came to her. Their private conversation was cut short by the arrival of Feng Lanxi, forcing Bai Fengxi to quickly hide. Feng Lanxi immediately confronted Prince Xieyue about his frequent glances at Bai Fengxi during their earlier meeting, implying jealousy.

Prince Xieyue feigned a deep attraction to Bai Fengxi, claiming she resembled an old friend and he was instantly smitten, then boldly asked Feng Lanxi to "do him the honor" of letting her serve him instead. Feng Lanxi curtly dismissed the idea, stating that Bai Fengxi was not his subordinate but his partner, belonging only to herself and not to be traded like an object.

Prince Xieyue, acknowledging the lesson, then pressed further, asking if Feng Lanxi would allow Bai Fengxi to leave if she developed feelings for him. Feng Lanxi affirmed that he would respect her autonomy. Prince Xieyue continued his probe by mentioning his own sister, Feng Xiyun, an unrivaled beauty, asking whom Feng Lanxi would choose if Feng Xiyun were to favor him.

Feng Lanxi's resolute response was that Bai Fengxi was "one of a kind" in his heart, and "no one holds a candle to her." Concluding his elaborate test, Prince Xieyue noted that Feng Lanxi's words, free of aristocratic pride and full of compassion for his beloved and the common people, showed him to be a truly benevolent ruler, promising Feng Lanxi would one day understand the reason for his scrutiny.

Later, Bai Fengxi caught up with Feng Lanxi, offering to take the stroll he had previously suggested. Feng Lanxi, still nursing a perceived slight from her earlier refusal, grumbled that she only sought him out when she was free, making him "lose face." Bai Fengxi, feigning offense, began to walk away, prompting Feng Lanxi to quickly pull her back and "reluctantly" agree to the outing.

As they walked through Liangcheng, Bai Fengxi observed the growing smiles on the faces of the common people, attributing their newfound happiness to Feng Lanxi's efforts to remove the "oppressor" Yu Ming. She mused that in these turbulent times, true protection for the masses could only come from the imperial court, as martial arts heroics only saved a select few.

She declared her willingness to stand by Feng Lanxi and "help him" if he continued to strive for a peaceful world that prioritized the people. A sudden spring rain began, and Feng Lanxi quickly sheltered Bai Fengxi before dashing to buy an umbrella, only to find one remaining. As he ran back, Bai Fengxi worried about the small umbrella.

With a playful remark, Feng Lanxi scooped her onto his back, carrying her through the downpour in a moment of shared sweetness. Later, Feng Lanxi presented his vision for Liangcheng to Prince Xieyue, highlighting how connecting the newly built water channels to the main waterway would transform Liangcheng into a central hub for maritime trade and grant access to rich mineral resources.

He expressed his desire to "govern the region" alongside Prince Xieyue, who, understanding Feng Lanxi's ambition, pledged Qingzhou's unwavering support as his "best ally." In Jizhou, the King awoke to find Huang Chao by his side throughout the night. Deeply moved, he urged Huang Chao that should he conquer the world, he must rule with kindness and righteousness, not merely ambition, to avoid becoming a tyrant.

Huang Chao vowed to uphold these principles, promising that with Yu Wuyuan's guidance, he would never fail the common people. The King then announced his intention to issue a public apology, acknowledging his own faults while exalting Huang Chao's loyalty and benevolence, thereby silencing any internal opposition. Meanwhile, a subordinate informed Yu Wuyuan that the Jizhou King had indeed issued the apology, cementing Jizhou as Huang Chao's dominion.

The subordinate also reported Feng Lanxi's successful actions in Liangcheng: eliminating the corrupt official Yu Ming and negotiating a peace treaty with Prince Xieyue, which led to Qingzhou's army withdrawal and the initiation of a dam construction project. Yu Wuyuan recognized Feng Lanxi's talent and deemed him a significant threat to his own plans, necessitating his elimination.

He then issued orders to secretly aid Feng Ju in Yongzhou's capital and to gather intelligence on Youzhou, anticipating that Huang Chao's upcoming marriage proposal there would mark the beginning of new developments. Separately, Princess Huang Yu, Huang Chao's sister, visited Yu Wuyuan in military attire. She explained her determination to join the military to assist her brother, inspired by figures like Bai Fengxi.

Yu Wuyuan questioned her decision due to his family's ill fate, but Huang Chao later confessed his sister's deep affection for Yu Wuyuan before inviting Yu Wuyuan to accompany him to Youzhou, an offer he readily accepted. The initial call for labor to build the dam in Liangcheng yielded fewer than a hundred applicants. An official explained that while wages were offered, the scarcity of food meant money was worthless.

He suggested a food relief program, but the city's grain reserves were low. Feng Lanxi, rejecting a general's suggestion to use force, asserted that the lack of participation stemmed from the people's deep distrust. He then ordered a "work for food" system, where wages would be converted into grain at market price, and requested additional supplies from Yongzhou.

Bai Fengxi then offered an ingenious solution: scatter Yu Ming's embezzled silver, broken into small pieces, beneath the water channels and spread rumors that Yu Ming's hidden wealth lay there. Impressed, Feng Lanxi implemented the plan. The prospect of finding hidden silver spurred a massive influx of eager workers, all rushing to "dig back" what they felt was rightfully theirs. To show his gratitude, Feng Lanxi promised to cook dinner for Bai Fengxi that night.

In Yongzhou's capital, Zhang Zhongge reported to the Yong King about House of Jade's illegal dealings, which implicated numerous court officials and appeared to be gathering intelligence for the mysterious Fountain Abode. The Yong King, noting Feng Lanxi's surname, Feng, speculated he might be a descendant of the royal family. He commanded Zhang Zhongge to secretly apprehend and interrogate House of Jade's shopkeeper to uncover more.

Simultaneously, pleased with the news from Liangcheng, the Yong King decided to appoint Feng Lanxi as its temporary governor, granting him an additional three thousand households and the use of "half the royal carriage." Seeing this, Feng Ju privately instructed Li Jiaxian to widely publicize Feng Lanxi's achievements.

He explained that by "praising him to death," they would provoke the King's fear of a subordinate whose accomplishments overshadowed his own, especially since the King had granted empty honors without providing actual funds or soldiers. Back in Liangcheng, as Bai Fengxi and Feng Lanxi inspected the nearly completed dam, the overjoyed locals hailed Bai Fengxi as "Your Ladyship," a title that pleased Feng Lanxi immensely and which Bai Fengxi accepted with a blush.

The successful "connection" of the water channel was met with widespread celebration, and Feng Lanxi announced a grand feast for everyone, recognizing their collective "legacy" for Liangcheng and Yongzhou. Meanwhile, Ren Rusong received urgent news that House of Jade had been completely vacated overnight, leaving no trace. He expressed grave concern, suspecting a powerful enemy behind the swift operation, which he believed was linked to Fountain Abode and Feng Lanxi's true identity.

He dispatched an envoy to inform Feng Lanxi in Liangcheng, while others were tasked with investigating the palace and the martial arts world. Feng Lanxi also held a meeting, where his officials confirmed the dam's smooth progress and sufficient food supplies. He then inquired about the Moyu Cavalry, learning that with the integration of Liangcheng's local army, it now numbered five thousand, a figure Feng Lanxi considered "still lacking."

He brought up the issue of persistent banditry outside Liangcheng, deducing that the bandits must have colluded with Yu Ming. Feng Lanxi tasked a general, along with Chuanyu and Chuanyun, to recruit these bandits into the Moyu Cavalry, promising pardons for those willing to reform but authorizing immediate execution for any who were truly heinous. Later, Feng Lanxi learned that Bai Fengxi had gone to the town to offer medical services.

He went to find her as she was treating an old man's twisted ankle. After her diagnosis, the man lamented that all apothecaries in the city were closed. Feng Lanxi then stepped forward, announcing that he had brought medicine to Liangcheng and would make it available at the Protectorate.

He then playfully challenged Bai Fengxi to a "competition of who can save more lives," confidently claiming his medical knowledge was superior to her "amateur" skills and even offering an extra "dou" of rice to anyone who consulted him.

Episode 27 Recap

In Liangcheng, Bai Fengxi continued her practice of treating the common people, having observed their suffering by the river. Prince Feng Lanxi joined her, offering his own medical expertise and even initiating a competition to see who could save more lives. He attracted patients by promising an extra dou of rice to those who consulted him, leading to a bustling scene.

As night fell, Bai Fengxi admitted to a weary back and playfully suggested Feng Lanxi give her a massage as his "punishment" for losing their competition. He reluctantly agreed, and as his skilled hands worked, she relaxed and drifted off to sleep. Zhong Li then arrived with urgent news from the capital of Yongzhou: the people of House of Jade had been arrested.

Feng Lanxi, signaling Zhong Li to keep quiet to avoid waking Bai Fengxi, quickly issued orders for Chuanyun and Chuanyu to remain in Liangcheng to oversee the dam construction and train the Moyu Cavalry, while he and Zhong Li would return to Yongzhou at dawn. As Feng Lanxi prepared to carry Bai Fengxi to her room, she revealed she had been feigning sleep and had heard everything.

She insisted on accompanying him to Yongzhou, openly admitting she had pretended to be asleep specifically so he would carry her. He embraced her tightly, agreeing to her request. Meanwhile, Princess Hua Chunran of Youzhou was en route when her carriage was ambushed. Having anticipated such an attack, she had cleverly avoided the carriage, observing the assault from a distance.

Her subordinate confirmed that the Heir of Youzhou was behind the attack, revealing her brother's intent to eliminate her and secure his claim to the throne. Hua Chunran decided to rest in Decheng for the night before continuing to Youzhou. At a tea stall, she overheard locals marveling at her divine fairy status, crediting her with miraculous events, including bringing the sarira to the Imperial City, which was believed to have brought peace to the Six States.

Feeling a sense of satisfaction, she encountered an elderly, coughing woman and her son, disguised as refugees. Moved by their plight, Hua Chunran offered them food and allowed them to join her entourage, seeing them as a convenient disguise. Prince Huang Chao, upon hearing of Hua Chunran's attack, admired her astuteness and wished for such a resourceful woman by his side. Yu Wuyuan informed Huang Chao that Feng Lanxi had met Prince Xieyue in Liangcheng.

He noted that such an alliance between Yongzhou and Qingzhou would significantly enhance their military strength. Huang Chao, seeing Youzhou and Qingzhou as generational enemies, declared that an alliance with Youzhou against Qingzhou was the best strategy, making Princess Chunran essential to his plans. He requested Yu Wuyuan's full support. Huang Chao reasoned that Hua Chunran's survival implied she possessed remarkable capabilities, and her need for external support to secure Youzhou would only increase his value to her.

Yu Wuyuan then asked Huang Chao how he would choose between Princess Chunran and Princess Xiyun if both sought his hand. Huang Chao stated he would choose Chunran now, as Qingzhou and Jizhou were too far apart and war was imminent, making a close alliance more pragmatic. He confidently added that once he ascended the throne, Princess Xiyun would inevitably become his as well.

He assured Yu Wuyuan that despite the impending conflict, their joint control would ensure the protection of innocent civilians, to which Yu Wuyuan expressed hope for minimal bloodshed. That same night, while Hua Chunran and her remaining servants lodged at an inn, the mother and son secretly administered a powerful sleeping drug to everyone. Hua Chunran narrowly escaped, running through the inn, screaming for help, and bursting into Huang Chao’s room.

The son, who had been about to use a dagger, quickly concealed it. Huang Chao, however, quickly assessed the situation, asking the "mother" about her "daughter's" name. When they couldn't answer, his subordinate confirmed the deaths of Hua Chunran's servants. Huang Chao swiftly subdued the mother and son, saving Hua Chunran. She was unconscious but unharmed, only drugged. The culprits, who confessed to robbery, were arrested and sentenced to death.

Huang Chao reflected on the prevalence of crime due to the suffering of common people in troubled times, and Yu Wuyuan reaffirmed his commitment to helping Huang Chao bring peace and order. Upon waking, Hua Chunran gracefully thanked Huang Chao for saving her life. She calmly requested a basin of water to tidy her appearance, explaining that maintaining her composure and dignity was crucial to remind herself not to succumb to despair, even when at rock bottom.

Impressed by her resolve, Huang Chao agreed to her request to escort her to Youzhou, a destination she had cleverly deduced from his demeanor and the ongoing search for a suitor for the Youzhou princess. In Qingzhou, Prince Xieyue reported to his father, the Qing King, on the situation in Liangcheng. He recounted how Feng Lanxi had successfully dealt with Yu Ming, taken control of the city, and proposed an impressive water management plan.

The Qing King, while acknowledging Feng Lanxi's talent, cautioned his son against underestimating someone from Yongzhou, especially given the impending conflicts between the Six States. Prince Xieyue, however, expressed his full trust in Feng Lanxi, stating that Princess Feng Xiyun could also vouch for his character, and he proceeded to elaborate on the deep bond between Feng Lanxi and Feng Xiyun.

The Qing King, though proud of his daughter, worried about the Yong King's temperament and how he would react if he discovered Feng Lanxi was actually Hei Fengxi, the formidable master of Fountain Abode. Nevertheless, he vowed that if Feng Lanxi treated Feng Xiyun well, Qingzhou would always be his staunchest ally.

Acknowledging his own declining health, the Qing King then entrusted Prince Xieyue with his personal "Governmental Policies," emphasizing that he would not always be there to protect Qingzhou, and it would ultimately fall to his son to safeguard their homeland. Back in Yongzhou, Bai Fengxi met with Feng Qiwu, who eagerly questioned her about her time in Liangcheng and whether Feng Lanxi had again confessed his feelings.

Bai Fengxi, while acknowledging her eventful two months, dismissed the romantic queries, stating that there had been too many urgent matters to attend to, and she preferred to let such things unfold naturally. Meanwhile, Feng Lanxi, having returned to Yongzhou in secret and staying at a secluded residence, met with Ren Rusong for an update on House of Jade.

Ren Rusong reported that despite two weeks of continuous investigation, neither the Ministry of Justice nor the martial arts world had found any records or clues regarding the disappearance of the House of Jade staff. Only their shops outside Yongzhou remained unaffected. Feng Lanxi quickly deduced that this elaborate operation was targeting Fountain Abode itself and was designed to pressure him.

Ren Rusong also shared that a spy had learned Prince Feng Ju was aware of Feng Lanxi's true identity as Hei Fengxi, raising suspicion that Feng Ju might be responsible. Feng Lanxi dismissed this, asserting that Feng Ju lacked the power for such a blatant act under the Yong King's nose, typically resorting to more discreet sabotage. He believed the captured individuals were leverage for a negotiation, thus ensuring their survival.

Bai Fengxi, who was with him, agreed, concluding that only the Yong King possessed the immense power and authority to act so brazenly within Yongzhou. Feng Lanxi believed his father intended for him to step forward and offer Fountain Abode to the state, but the fact that the Yong King still didn't know his identity bought him valuable time.

In the Yong King's court, Zhang Zhongge presented his extensive findings on Fountain Abode, detailing its organizational structure and trade networks, though the more secretive intelligence network remained elusive. The Yong King was profoundly impressed by the vast scale and intricate management of Fountain Abode, recognizing that its owner would be an invaluable asset to the state.

He instructed Zhang Zhongge that if the owner proved not to be a member of the royal family, he should be offered a high position and his organization integrated into Yongzhou's resources. However, if the owner refused, this formidable power must be utterly destroyed to prevent anyone else from wielding it.

Furthermore, the Yong King ordered continued vigilance, stating that if the owner "was" found to be a royal, it would signify a clear intent to rebel, demanding his swift and complete eradication. Zhang Zhongge assured the King that House of Jade served as perfect bait, and their traps were already laid to capture the mastermind.

Bai Fengxi, observing from a distance, saw officials frequently entering and exiting the Ministry of Justice, followed by the discrete transport of crates containing the House of Jade staff to an estate in the eastern suburbs, further confirming their suspicions about the Yong King's involvement. Ren Rusong, aware of the escalating danger, advised Feng Lanxi to lie low and avoid exposing himself to Feng Ju's schemes.

He assured Feng Lanxi that the loyal staff of House of Jade were prepared to die without revealing his identity. However, Feng Lanxi firmly rejected this counsel, declaring that the very purpose of creating Fountain Abode was to protect people, and as he was no longer a child, he possessed the capability to protect himself and his followers.

Soon after, a subordinate reported that Feng Ju had entered the palace, petitioning the Yong King to execute all House of Jade members in three days if the true owner of Fountain Abode failed to appear. Feng Lanxi recognized Feng Ju's calculated move to force a confrontation between him and his father, allowing Feng Ju to reap the benefits.

However, Feng Lanxi sensed that something was amiss and decided he needed to proceed with extreme caution to avoid falling into a predetermined trap. Unbeknownst to Feng Lanxi, Bai Jiande, leader of the Tianshuang Sect, resolved to lead his disciples to rescue the House of Jade members.

He decided that the Tianshuang Sect would publicly claim responsibility as the true owners of Fountain Abode, preventing Feng Lanxi from being forced into an impossible dilemma and believing this to be the only way to protect both parties. Meanwhile, Feng Ju was delighted to learn that the Tianshuang Sect was taking action, confidently declaring that all was proceeding as he had predicted, and he would simply "stand and watch."

Later, Feng Lanxi, having sent Zhong Li to summon Feng Ju, confronted his brother in a private chamber. Feng Ju noted it had been a decade since they last shared a drink, specifically since Feng Lanxi began feigning illness, which coincided with Hei Fengxi's emergence in the martial arts world. Feng Lanxi remarked on how much he had realized and decided the previous night.

Feng Ju then directly questioned if Feng Lanxi intended to reveal his identity to their father and if the Yong King would still regard him with paternal affection after learning he was the master of Fountain Abode. Feng Lanxi countered, pointing out Feng Ju had no concrete proof. Feng Ju, in turn, accused Feng Lanxi of superficial virtue and a disregard for his followers' lives, wondering if they would now feel betrayed.

Feng Lanxi delivered a cutting retort, asking Feng Ju to consider what their father would value more: the immense power of Fountain Abode or the life of Yongzhou's Third Prince, Feng Ju himself.

Episode 28 Recap

Feng Ju confronted Feng Lanxi, feigning ignorance about Feng Lanxi's identity as Hei Fengxi. He provocatively revealed his knowledge of the impending execution of the House of Jade members, taunting Feng Lanxi about his supposed indifference and the despair his followers would feel. Feng Lanxi countered, suggesting his plan was to force their father to choose between the power of Fountain Abode and the life of his own son, Feng Ju.

He clarified he had no intention of harming Feng Ju, only to witness their father's ultimate decision. Feng Ju warned of the severe consequences of challenging the Yongzhou royal family, predicting Fountain Abode's demise in the martial arts world. Feng Lanxi confidently stated he could forsake that identity and still thrive as the Second Prince of Yongzhou.

Believing Feng Lanxi resented his favored status with their father, Feng Ju then unveiled his own manipulative scheme: he had deliberately leaked information, knowing Fountain Abode had few weak points. He proclaimed his allegiance to their father and, to Feng Lanxi's visible surprise, revealed his full knowledge of the Tianshuang Sect's planned jailbreak, asserting that the Royal Army would easily crush them.

Feng Ju gloated that with both the House of Jade and Tianshuang Sect now implicated, Feng Lanxi was finally destined to lose. As Feng Ju celebrated, Bai Jiande, leading the Tianshuang Sect in a jailbreak attempt, was indeed ambushed by the Royal Army and captured. Realizing the gravity of the situation and his responsibility, Feng Lanxi resolved to confess his true identity to save everyone. He submitted a memorial to the Lord of Yongzhou, revealing that he was Hei Fengxi.

The Lord of Yongzhou was enraged, calling him a "traitorous son." Counselor Zhang Zhongge attempted to defend Feng Lanxi, but the Lord of Yongzhou, in his fury, silenced him. Yuan Lu also tried to intercede, but the Lord of Yongzhou accused him of being a spy for Fountain Abode, declaring Feng Lanxi's intentions were now irrelevant due to his deception. The Lord of Yongzhou dismissed Yuan Lu, stating he would handle the matter himself.

Despite Yuan Lu's pleas for him to retreat, Feng Lanxi insisted on kneeling outside the hall, determined to confess his crimes and face any punishment, even death. The Lord of Yongzhou, in a chilling display of authority, granted Feng Lanxi an audience but imposed a cruel condition: Feng Lanxi had to walk the "tens of steps" to reach him, enduring severe beatings from the Royal Army with staffs for every step he took.

Throughout this brutal ordeal, the Lord of Yongzhou showed no mercy, repeatedly declaring that the man before them was no longer Prince Yongping but the formidable Hei Fengxi, a hero who had "shaken up the martial arts world." By the time Feng Lanxi reached his father, he was severely battered and bleeding. The Lord of Yongzhou, without a word, turned and re-entered the hall.

Yuan Lu, deeply distressed, again urged Feng Lanxi to retreat and recover, but Feng Lanxi, remembering an adage about never giving up, steadfastly remained. After a prolonged wait, he finally gained entry into the hall. Feng Lanxi respectfully greeted his father, but the Lord of Yongzhou's tone was laced with sarcasm, questioning whether he faced Prince Yongping or Hei Fengxi, and what true intentions lay beneath Feng Lanxi's public façade.

Feng Lanxi honestly explained that he had initially established Fountain Abode for self-preservation, then evolved its purpose to protect more people. He admitted to feigning illness and secretly training in martial arts, and assured his father that all of Fountain Abode's profits had been used for the common people and the good of the realm.

Unconvinced, the Lord of Yongzhou fiercely condemned him for deceiving the throne, colluding with others, and conspiring rebellion, declaring that his long-held secret made him no different from a traitor, regardless of his intentions. To demonstrate his loyalty, Feng Lanxi presented a comprehensive list of Fountain Abode's branches and the House of Jade's business records, offering the entire organization to his father.

The Lord of Yongzhou, however, stated that he desired more than a mere shell of Fountain Abode without Hei Fengxi's leadership. He then produced a special liquor called "Duan Shang," explaining it was not poison but would permanently dispel all inner force, effectively crippling Feng Lanxi's martial arts. He cruelly remarked that since Feng Lanxi always pretended to be weak and scholarly, he should now truly become one. Heartbroken, Feng Lanxi asked when his father had prepared such a measure.

The Lord of Yongzhou chillingly replied that it was prepared the moment he discovered Feng Lanxi's true identity. Accepting his fate, Feng Lanxi drank the liquor. Immediately, the Lord of Yongzhou ordered an edict to be drafted, officially naming Feng Lanxi as Marquis Yongping. He then commanded Feng Lanxi to represent Yongzhou in the Princess of Youzhou's marriage proposal.

As a final, coercive condition, he declared that all the imprisoned martial artists, including those from the House of Jade and Tianshuang Sect, would only be released on the day Feng Lanxi married Hua Chunran. After Feng Lanxi's ordeal, Bai Fengxi remained vigilantly by his bedside for three days without rest, softly speaking to him and urging him to wake. When he finally regained consciousness, she emotionally embraced him.

Feng Lanxi, weakened by the loss of his inner force, struggled slightly to breathe but found a profound sense of relief, remarking on the unexpected reality of true physical weakness and the freedom of no longer needing to hide his abilities. Bai Fengxi, though saddened by his condition, quickly reminded him that Hei Fengxi's renown stemmed from his intellect and cunning, not merely martial prowess.

Zhong Li entered with medicine, confirming that Fountain Abode's main forces had been secretly relocated, ensuring its core loyalty remained with Feng Lanxi despite its ostensible surrender to the Lord of Yongzhou. Soon after, an imperial edict arrived, commanding Marquis Yongping, Feng Lanxi, to immediately depart for Youzhou.

Understanding the imperative to protect Bai Jiande and the others, Bai Fengxi declared her intention to accompany Feng Lanxi, promising to protect him and jokingly expressing her desire to glimpse the legendary beauty of Dadong. Meanwhile, Hua Chunran, having been rescued by Huang Chao, arrived safely in Youzhou.

She thanked Huang Chao for his escort, and he, aware of her true identity, responded with a perfectly balanced demeanor—neither overly flattering nor neglectful—which subtly impressed her and bolstered his chances in the upcoming marriage proposal. Separately, the leader of the Soultaker Sect reported to Yu Wuyuan on the recent events in Yongzhou: the Lord of Yongzhou's acquisition of Fountain Abode and Feng Lanxi's severe injuries and complete loss of martial arts.

Yu Wuyuan, initially surprised by Feng Lanxi's drastic sacrifice to survive, had hoped the internal conflict would ignite unrest in Yongzhou. Though Feng Lanxi’s decision thwarted that specific outcome, Yu Wuyuan, upon learning that Feng Lanxi would be representing Yongzhou in Youzhou, saw a new opportunity. He resolved to take advantage of Feng Lanxi's weakened state to eliminate him, believing that the murder of a Yongzhou prince in Youzhou would create even more "interesting" chaos.

The Lord of Youzhou had been raging over the attack on Hua Chunran, threatening his guards with beheading if she wasn't found. His son attempted to suggest a contingency plan involving another princess, drawing his father's ire for implying Hua Chunran might not return. However, news soon arrived of Hua Chunran's safe return, bringing immense relief to the Lord of Youzhou, who immediately rushed to her side, expressing deep concern and ordering a feast.

Meanwhile, in the Yongzhou prison, Bai Jiande, still incarcerated, held a distinctive jade pendant. An old man in an adjacent cell, a former number one jade carver of Dadong, recognized the intricate engravings on the pendant, revealing he himself had crafted it years ago for the Yu family of the Imperial City. He recounted how the Lord of Yongzhou had invited him to carve a grand Buddha statue but then imprisoned him after the work was done.

He also mentioned the Empyrean Yu family's notoriously short lifespans, wondering if any of them still existed. Bai Jiande, pressing for confirmation on the unique craftsmanship, began to connect the pieces, forming a strong suspicion about the true identity of the mastermind behind "Qiongqiong."

Episode 29 Recap

Inside the prison, Bai Jiande held up a jade pendant and asked an old man in the neighboring cell about its origin. The old man, who claimed to be the only one skilled in such intricate engravings, identified the pendant as something he had carved many years ago for the Yu family of the Imperial City. He mentioned that members of the Empyrean Yu family were known for their short lifespans and wondered if any descendants remained.

Bai Jiande pressed for certainty, and the old man reaffirmed his unique craftsmanship, leaving Bai Jiande to ponder if this new information pointed to the individual behind the Qiongqiong organization. Meanwhile, at the Phoenix Palace in Yongzhou, Baili advised Feng Ju on how to secure his position as heir. She noted that while Feng Lanxi had suffered a setback, events could change, and the final decision on the heir was still pending.

With the Yong King's birthday approaching in two months, Baili saw an opportunity for Feng Ju to make his move. As Feng Lanxi and Bai Fengxi journeyed to Youzhou, Bai Fengxi noticed they were being tailed and questioned why Feng Lanxi didn't shake them off. Feng Lanxi explained that these were the Yong King's secret agents, sent to monitor his every move in Youzhou and report back. Allowing them to follow was a way to reassure his father.

Feng Lanxi revealed that intelligence gathered by the Fountain Abode detailed the candidates and rules for the Youzhou Princess's marriage proposal. He understood that his father did not truly wish for him to marry the princess, as Youzhou's support would grant him significant power, allowing him a chance to overturn his current situation. However, the Yong King also didn't want him to lose and bring shame to Yongzhou.

More importantly, this trip was a test of his loyalty and capabilities, especially after losing his martial arts. Only by proving his competence and unwavering loyalty would his father be satisfied, leading to the release of Master Bai Jiande and the Tianshuang Sect members. Bai Fengxi, acknowledging the complex political maneuvers, agreed that the royal court was indeed full of cunning individuals.

She noted that the first stage of the proposal involved a spar and, given Feng Lanxi's current condition, they would need a clever strategy. Feng Lanxi decided that their immediate goal was to enter the Youzhou Royal Palace and approach Hua Chunran directly. Feng Lanxi explained that Hua Chunran was not just Dadong's greatest beauty but also highly influential in Youzhou's court. Befriending her could help them navigate the spar.

However, Hua Chunran was known for her intelligence and vigilance, having narrowly escaped assassination attempts after delivering the sarira from the Imperial City. She was deeply wary of others, making her trust hard to earn unless the person had no conflicting interests, was amicable, intrigued her with a complementary personality, and preferably, was a woman. Bai Fengxi recognized herself as the ideal candidate for this role due to her unique, free-spirited nature.

Despite her concerns for her Master Bai Jiande and the Tianshuang Sect, Bai Fengxi decided to assist Feng Lanxi, believing it would expedite their rescue. She told him that her master had advised her to follow her heart, and since her master and others were safe for now in Yongzhou, it was better to be proactive. Meanwhile, palace maids discussed the influx of suitors.

They praised Huang Chao, the Heir of Jizhou, for his rising popularity, and also mentioned the recently arrived Prince Yongping, Feng Lanxi of Yongzhou, as elegant and charismatic. Hua Chunran, intrigued, noted that both Huang Chao and Feng Lanxi were among the Four Gentry. She then excused herself, heading to Mingse Garden before her lunch with her father, mentioning that a Snowy Ink plant she cared for might have bloomed.

Feng Lanxi and Bai Fengxi, in their guise as the martial artists Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi, quietly entered the Royal Palace and met Hua Chunran. Hei Fengxi presented her with a "gift": signed testimonies from two criminals involved in an assassination attempt against her. He explained that he had intervened when the criminals were being silenced. Hua Chunran, acknowledging Fountain Abode's vast intelligence network, thanked them but was summoned to lunch with her father.

She offered them lodging in Luohua Palace. During lunch, Hua Chunran appeared distressed, lamenting the loss of her maid, Hong, and expressing a desire for revenge. She claimed to have secured signed testimonies from Hong's killers, stating they were sent by her elder brother, the Heir of Youzhou. Her brother was visibly shaken, and the Lord of Youzhou prepared to condemn him.

However, Hua Chunran quickly changed her tune, urging her father not to be swayed by rumors and defending her brother, suggesting someone might be trying to drive a wedge between them. Watching from outside, Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi were impressed by Hua Chunran's cunning, noting how she implicated her brother while appearing innocent and vulnerable. They concluded she was more formidable than anticipated.

Bai Fengxi proposed that to truly understand Hua Chunran, she should first befriend the palace maids, believing that lonely individuals with complex minds were eager for genuine connections. Feng Lanxi agreed, adding that he would also seek opportunities to approach Hua Chunran directly.

Over the next few days, Bai Fengxi effortlessly integrated with the maids, sharing makeup tips like the "Caged Smoke Eyebrow" and the "Tearline Blush," and enjoying their company, while Hei Fengxi spent time playing chess with Hua Chunran. During one such game, Bai Fengxi playfully intervened, advising Hua Chunran on a move that would "trap the Foxy," clearly referencing Hei Fengxi and subtly displaying her intimate knowledge of him.

Soon after, the Lord of Youzhou summoned Hua Chunran, having learned about her accommodating two martial arts guests. Hua Chunran boldly admitted to housing Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi, praising them as unparalleled martial artists and rare talents. She argued that having them in Youzhou would greatly aid him in his ambition to conquer the world, ensuring Youzhou would no longer be outshone by Yongzhou or Jizhou.

Her words appeased the Lord, who, recognizing her strategic mind, invited her to sit and discuss his plans. While the Lord of Youzhou acknowledged Hua Chunran's shrewdness, he remained cautious of the martial artists. He subtly implied his awareness of their presence by mentioning her brother had reported them, making Hua Chunran briefly fear her brother’s treachery.

The Lord then steered the conversation back to the marriage proposal, listing Prince Lanxi of Yongzhou and Heir Huang Chao of Jizhou as his preferred suitors due to their royal status. However, Hua Chunran expressed interest in Hei Fengxi, a talented commoner who, she argued, could assist Youzhou without posing a threat or harboring ambitions for its throne.

The Lord strongly opposed this, insisting his daughter, a princess, could not marry a commoner, asserting that his public announcement about social class not mattering was merely a tool to win public favor, and his daughter deserved to be a queen. Later, Hua Chunran sketched a portrait of Hei Fengxi, but Bai Fengxi critiqued it as lacking his true essence.

Taking the brush, Bai Fengxi drew a more lifelike depiction, highlighting Hei Fengxi's long, oval face, upward-sloping phoenix eyes, and thin lips, which she playfully described as "coquettish" and characteristic of someone "cold-hearted" and cunning, despite his seemingly righteous appearance. Hua Chunran, impressed by Bai Fengxi's accurate portrayal and understanding of Hei Fengxi, confessed her desire to marry him and asked Bai Fengxi for help. Bai Fengxi then relayed Hua Chunran's request to Hei Fengxi.

He surmised that Hua Chunran's interest was not romantic but pragmatic; she valued Youzhou's future and her own power above all else. Hei Fengxi, as a powerful figure in the martial arts world but without a political base, presented an ideal choice for Hua Chunran to leverage for her ambitions without being controlled.

Bai Fengxi understood that Hua Chunran also sought her help because as a martial artist, she posed no threat, and her close relationship with Hei Fengxi made her a potential influencer, which Hua Chunran intended to test. Hei Fengxi clarified his plan: on the day of the marriage proposal, he would appear as Feng Lanxi, Prince of Yongzhou. To outsiders, Hei Fengxi and Feng Lanxi were one and the same, a perfect match for Youzhou.

But for Hua Chunran, this unexpected reveal would undermine her carefully laid plans, making her unwilling to marry him, as he would no longer be the "unthreatening commoner" she sought to control. Back in Yongzhou, the Yong King received two letters from Youzhou: one from House of Jade and another from his own agents accompanying Prince Yongping. Both contained similar information, but House of Jade's report was far more detailed, even outlining the backgrounds of all suitors.

Yuan Lu expressed admiration for Feng Lanxi's ability to manage the vast intelligence network of Fountain Abode, which contained not only Jianghu and royal information but also secret affairs, each with specialized annotations. The Yong King, however, remained unconvinced of Feng Lanxi's true intentions. Knowing his son well, he believed Feng Lanxi was not one to passively accept his fate or remain in the shadows, asserting that his trip to Youzhou surely involved a hidden agenda.

He pondered the consequences if Feng Lanxi, backed by Youzhou's power, decided to challenge Yongzhou. Confident in his own foresight, the Yong King declared that he too had a contingency plan, and the ultimate outcome would depend on Feng Lanxi's choices.

Episode 30 Recap

The Lord of Yongzhou views Feng Lanxi's trip to Youzhou as a test of loyalty, acknowledging Feng Lanxi's intelligence in understanding his underlying motives and waiting to see his choices. Feng Lanxi, in turn, understands that his true objective is to regain the Lord of Yongzhou's trust, not merely to secure a marriage alliance.

Meanwhile, Yu Wuyuan observes the political situation in Youzhou, noting that the Heir of Youzhou's confinement and impeachment by the Censorates suggest a deeper reason, likely orchestrated by Hua Chunran. As the newly appointed Divine Fairy of Dadong, Hua Chunran swiftly deposed her elder brother upon her return to Youzhou. Huang Chao expresses a keen interest in Hua Chunran, believing that with her as his companion, he can achieve peace and unification across the land.

Yu Wuyuan assures Huang Chao of his continued friendship once Huang Chao rules the world. The day before the marriage proposal, Hua Chunran instructs her maids to prepare Bai Fengxi. A sleepy Bai Fengxi declares that her plan is to defeat every suitor except Black Foxy, thereby discouraging others from seeking Hua Chunran’s hand. As Feng Lanxi prepares to leave the Youzhou Royal Palace, he bids farewell to Hua Chunran.

However, Hua Chunran requests Bai Fengxi to stay, indicating another favor she needs. Bai Fengxi reluctantly agrees, especially when promised pearl cake. Shortly after Feng Lanxi departs, assassins from the Soultaker Sect ambush him, acting on Yu Wuyuan’s subtle command. Despite having lost his inner force, Feng Lanxi expertly uses his battlefield combat skills to fend off the initial wave of attackers. A more formidable assailant then appears, wielding inner force that resembles Sacred Jade Moon.

Just as Feng Lanxi faces a dire situation, Bai Fengxi arrives to assist him, successfully repelling the attacker. Feng Lanxi admits he enjoys the feeling of being protected but remains puzzled by the attacker's use of Sacred Jade Moon. Later that night, as Bai Fengxi tends to Feng Lanxi’s injuries, they discuss the ambush. Feng Lanxi confirms the attackers were from the Soultaker Sect.

He observes that the skilled assailant's inner force, while resembling Sacred Jade Moon, was used inefficiently, suggesting it was stolen rather than cultivated. Bai Fengxi speculates a connection to the mysterious figure in Yongzhou who supposedly absorbed their inner force after Qiwu’s accident. Feng Lanxi agrees, believing the coordinated attack points to a major conspiracy, possibly orchestrated by Cricket.

He suspects Cricket is behind the Soultaker Sect, with the ultimate goal of overthrowing the Dadong Empire and plunging the world into chaos. He proposes that they work together to prevent this catastrophe, a suggestion Bai Fengxi enthusiastically embraces. Bai Fengxi then shows Feng Lanxi the martial arts challenge for the marriage proposal, worrying that his weakened state might hinder him. Feng Lanxi, however, confidently states that with her by his side, he has nothing to fear.

Bai Fengxi challenges him to two home-cooked meals if he passes, which he readily accepts. On the day of the marriage proposal, Hua Chunran observes the introductions of the various heirs. She is surprised that Huang Chao is the noble who saved her in an inn previously. When Feng Lanxi is introduced, she realizes that he is also the enigmatic Hei Fengxi.

Rushing to her father, the Lord of Youzhou, she reveals Feng Lanxi’s dual identity as Hei Fengxi of Fountain Abode and Marquis Yongping of Yongzhou. She explains that Feng Lanxi is exceptionally cunning and capable, possibly using Bai Fengxi as a cover, and his true aim is Youzhou, not the marriage itself. To further assess him, Hua Chunran proposes that the next day's palace examination be centered on the Cangmang Endgame.

She believes only this renowned, uncracked chess puzzle, set by the elders Taiyin and Tianji and said to predict world conflicts, can challenge Feng Lanxi. If he solves it, proving himself a future co-ruler of the world, she would willingly marry him. The Lord of Youzhou agrees to her proposal. Meanwhile, Bai Fengxi, disguised as Hua Chunran, initiates the martial arts challenge.

After performing a guqin piece, she outlines the task: contestants must leap from the Cailian Pavilion to the Cailian Platform by stepping on flowers across a lake, without using any external aids. Falling into the water results in disqualification. Yu Wuyuan, anticipating Feng Lanxi's difficulty without his inner force, watches keenly. However, with Bai Fengxi's subtle assistance, Feng Lanxi successfully completes the challenge.

Both Huang Chao and Yu Wuyuan realize the "Princess" on stage is actually Bai Fengxi, recognizing her unique martial prowess and daring. After successfully passing, Huang Chao directly approaches Bai Fengxi, repeating his offer: if he becomes emperor, she would be his empress. Bai Fengxi rejects him outright, stating her disinterest in the title. Huang Chao expresses that she is the only woman who has ever rejected him so boldly.

He explains that his pursuit of Princess Chunran is a strategic move for his ambitions, but he assures Bai Fengxi that she holds the most important place in his heart, pledging to make her his only wife if she accepts. Bai Fengxi reiterates that she seeks a singular love, a husband who loves only her. She also criticizes his use of women for power, warning him that such tactics might lead to setbacks from other women.

The Lord of Youzhou reviews the list of successful candidates for the Cailian Platform challenge, noting with satisfaction that both Huang Chao and Feng Lanxi are on it. He confides in Hua Chunran his apprehension about Feng Lanxi's unpredictable and daunting nature, fearing Youzhou's eventual annexation given the other states' expansion.

While he acknowledges Hua Chunran’s affection for Feng Lanxi, especially now knowing his dual identity, he emphasizes Huang Chao's comparable talent and his earlier promise to help Youzhou conquer Qingzhou, which would make Qingzhou a sure conquest. Thus, the Lord of Youzhou advises Hua Chunran to choose Prince Huang Chao as her consort, believing that despite Huang Chao's ambitions, his "kingcraft" would offer Youzhou a chance at survival. Hua Chunran accepts her father's decision.

Later, Yu Wuyuan confronts Bai Fengxi, probing her views on the geopolitics of the Six States. He then reveals his knowledge of her true identity as Feng Xiyun, Princess of Qingzhou, deducing that Feng Lanxi's peace with Prince Xieyue was orchestrated by her. Bai Fengxi, impressed, remarks on his unparalleled knowledge. Feng Lanxi, having passed the martial arts test, anticipates the Cangmang Endgame as the next day's palace examination, viewing it as a crucial part of his plan.

With his martial arts lost, the Fountain Abode's influence has waned, forcing him to seek new ways to contend for the world. He hopes to decipher the endgame to find a path to prevent global catastrophe and ensure peace for the common people. Bai Fengxi teases his habit of overthinking but concedes that his nature might indeed allow him to solve the puzzle.

Feng Lanxi promises to accompany her back to Tianshuang Sect after Youzhou's affairs are settled, and she eagerly agrees. The next day, at the palace examination, the Lord of Youzhou asks the princes: "What is the most important thing in the world today?" The Heir of Beizhou prioritizes "power" for survival. Zeng Youliang emphasizes "ambition" for invincibility.

Shan Yecheng, a shrewd businessman and the young master of Tiantong Chamber of Commerce, acknowledges both but strategically withdraws, content with future business opportunities. Huang Chao, however, declares "vision" to be paramount. He explains that those who prioritize a city ensure its survival, those who prioritize a state adapt to its evolution, and those who prioritize the entire world can truly bring prosperity and command the world.

Episode 31 Recap

During the palace examination, the Lord of Youzhou questioned the princes on their views of the current world. Mr. Shan promptly forfeited, openly prioritizing his business interests. Prince Huang Chao of Jizhou asserted that the Six States should focus on a grand vision, believing that prioritizing the world would benefit its people and command universal respect. The Lord of Youzhou praised his insight.

Prince Feng Lanxi (also known as Hei Fengxi) then offered his perspective, stating that the world ultimately revolves around "fate." He clarified that a nation's fate encompasses the people's livelihood, public opinion, and the ruler's governing prowess. Feng Lanxi emphasized that current leadership should be rooted in the people and guided by imperial principles, all towards achieving "peace for all ages."

His words earned widespread admiration, and the Lord of Youzhou, deeply impressed, invited the remaining princes to an inner chamber. There, he revealed the Cangmang Endgame, a complex Go game left by the revered Old Taiyin and Old Tianji, said to contain their predictions for the world. He declared that the winner would become Youzhou's son-in-law. Most princes, intimidated by the challenge, quickly withdrew, leaving only Prince Huang Chao and Feng Lanxi.

Feng Lanxi deferred the first move, stating that Prince Huang, with his superior status in the world, should begin. Princess Hua Chunran observed that the two wise princes were likely playing out countless scenarios in their minds before making a single move. Meanwhile, back in Yongzhou, Prince Feng Ju had orchestrated a treacherous plan. He instructed members of the Soultaker Sect to "rescue" the imprisoned Tianshuang Sect disciples from the dungeon.

His intention was for his men, impersonating Marquis Yongping's (Feng Lanxi's) forces, to then ambush and kill all the disciples at a designated rendezvous point. This was designed to provide irrefutable evidence for the Royal Army that Feng Lanxi was behind a violent jailbreak. Feng Ju believed this would irrevocably damage Feng Lanxi's relationship with Yongwang, rendering him powerless and potentially preventing his safe return from Youzhou.

Inside the dungeon, Master Bai Jiande of Tianshuang Sect, unaware of the full deception, was about to leave with the supposed rescuers. However, a jade carver also held there wisely refused to join them, reasoning that his current offense was not fatal, but an escape would surely lead to a death sentence. At that critical moment, Prince Feng Chang intervened, exposing Feng Ju's plot to frame Feng Lanxi.

He persuaded Bai Jiande and the others to return to their cells and await Feng Lanxi's return. Feng Chang then sent a message to Feng Lanxi via Zhong Li, indicating his support and eagerness to "play Go" with him upon his return to Yongjing. Feng Ju later learned his operatives had been captured by Prince Chang's men, realizing Feng Lanxi's foresight. Accepting his failure, Feng Ju decided to prepare for his departure from Yongjing.

Back in Youzhou, the intense Go match between Prince Huang Chao and Feng Lanxi continued. Prince Huang pressed his advantage, stating that conquering the world demanded bold offense, not mere defense. Feng Lanxi countered, explaining that his defensive maneuvers were strategically designed for better offense and to stabilize the larger game. He pointed out that Prince Huang's previous "dragon-slaying" attempt had failed, costing him his initiative.

Feng Lanxi elaborated on their contrasting approaches to leadership: Prince Huang sought to conquer through unyielding ambition, while Feng Lanxi aimed to rule by effectively utilizing every individual, even seemingly insignificant "discarded pieces." Feng Lanxi ultimately declared that the world belongs to its people, reflecting the wisdom of Old Taiyin and Old Tianji. He believed that if both he and Prince Huang understood this, the common people would not suffer, regardless of who ascended to power.

After making one final move, Feng Lanxi unexpectedly conceded the game. Though puzzled, the Lord of Youzhou declared Prince Huang Chao the victor. Afterward, outside the palace, Feng Lanxi comforted Bai Fengxi, assuring her that Yongwang would release the Tianshuang Sect disciples upon hearing the news, and Zhong Li would escort them home. Seizing the moment, Feng Lanxi confessed his long-held feelings for Bai Fengxi, declaring that he wouldn't miss this opportunity again.

He spoke of wanting her heart and holding her hand until the end of his life. Bai Fengxi playfully teased him about the lack of a romantic token, and they shared a sweet kiss. News of the Youzhou examination reached Yongwang. Zhang Zhongge reported that the Tianshuang Sect members remained in their cells without any escape attempts. Yongwang noted that Feng Lanxi understood the gravity of the situation.

Upon learning that Princess Hua Chunran had chosen Prince Huang Chao, Yongwang found Feng Lanxi's earlier claims of establishing Fountain Abode for self-preservation more credible. Eunuch Yuan Lu further suggested that Feng Lanxi valued his filial relationship, which reinforced Yongwang's belief. Consequently, Yongwang ordered Zhang Zhongge to release all Tianshuang Sect members. Meanwhile, Yu Wuyuan received word of Feng Ju's failed plan, expressing his disappointment and shifting his focus to the impending marriage between Prince Huang Chao and Hua Chunran.

This union would consolidate the military might of Jizhou and Youzhou, paving the way for his own ambition. He outlined plans to expand the Ju Xu army to 20,000 within five years to prepare for an assault on the Imperial City. His subordinate also reported the accidental discovery of the jade carver (whom Yu Wuyuan had been searching for) imprisoned in Yongjing. Recognizing the potential for useful information, Yu Wuyuan decided to visit Tianshuang Sect in the coming days.

Feng Lanxi sent two crucial messages via messenger to Feng Qiwu. One was for Commander Ren Rusong, respectfully requesting him to disarm and retire to Liangcheng. Ren Rusong expressed concern over Feng Lanxi's reduced influence without Youzhou's backing, noting that while Prince Feng Chang had withdrawn from the succession, the struggle between Feng Lanxi and Feng Ju was far from over. The second message, accompanied by a roster of Fountain Abode's forces, was for Feng Qiwu.

Through Zhong Li, Feng Lanxi conveyed a strategy: the deeply rooted Feng family could secure its position by pledging allegiance to Yongwang, offering a portion of Fountain Abode's power as a token of loyalty. This would appease Yongwang while securing the Feng family's future. Feng Qiwu, understanding the wisdom behind the move, agreed to the plan.

Yu Wuyuan took his leave of Prince Huang Chao, advising him to await the opportune moment before using Youzhou to launch an attack on Qingzhou. Later, Feng Lanxi accompanied Bai Fengxi back to Tianshuang Sect. He explained to her that by relinquishing the marriage and surrendering Fountain Abode, he had removed all leverage Yongwang held over him, thereby securing his own safety and that of Tianshuang Sect. Master Bai Jiande, grateful for Feng Lanxi's assistance, inquired about his future plans.

Acknowledging the imminent world conquest following the marriage of Prince Huang Chao and Hua Chunran, he urged Feng Lanxi to prioritize the protection of the common people. Bai Fengxi wholeheartedly endorsed this, vowing to confront Feng Lanxi herself if he ever prioritized power over the populace. Master Bai expressed his joy at seeing them together. Meanwhile, Feng Qiwu personally bid farewell to Ren Rusong.

In the palace, Baili probed Yongwang, suggesting that with Prince Feng Chang having abandoned the succession and Feng Lanxi having departed, the Heir position should go to Feng Ju. Yongwang revealed he was fully aware of Feng Ju's machinations, including the false accusations and the attempted jailbreak. Nevertheless, he acknowledged Feng Ju's actions were ultimately for Yongzhou's benefit.

He challenged Feng Ju to prove his worth by successfully quelling a southern rebellion within a month, promising that success would qualify him for the Heir title. As he left, Yongwang noted that Baili had gotten the outcome she wanted. Finally, Yu Wuyuan arrived at Tianshuang Sect, where Bai Jiande presented him with a jade piece, seeking his knowledge of its origin.

Episode 32 Recap

Yu Wuyuan arrived uninvited at the Tianshuang Sect, where Bai Jiande expressed surprise at his presence during his planned retirement. Yu Wuyuan claimed he was merely passing by to pay his respects. Bai Jiande then presented a jade pendant, inquiring about its origins.

Yu Wuyuan recognized it as a gift from his father at birth but stated he lost it ten years ago during a fire at Qionglin Park, caused by a bandit he was too weak to stop at the time. He then questioned how Bai Jiande acquired it. Bai Jiande explained he found it by chance, and an old jade carver from the Yongzhou Royal Palace, who had carved it for the Yu family, identified it.

This jade pendant, Bai Jiande revealed, was connected to a friend's death. He then asked Yu Wuyuan if he knew about the Token Keepers, admitting that he was one himself and that during his investigation into the fake Empyrean Token, he found the pendant, linking the perpetrator to the Qionglin Park incident. Yu Wuyuan promised to investigate further and share any findings, allowing Bai Jiande to keep the pendant.

However, inwardly, Yu Wuyuan decided that Bai Jiande knew too much and would need to be eliminated. Later that evening, Bai Jiande spoke with Bai Fengxi, announcing his retirement the following day to travel and reconnect with old friends. He acknowledged that Bai Fengxi was the best choice for the sect's leader, but her identity and circumstances prevented her from staying.

Bai Fengxi then suggested Bai Langhua for the position, arguing that despite her youth and immaturity, her martial arts skills and understanding of the Tianshuang Sect's spirit made her suitable. She further proposed that Jiurong, with his mild disposition and diplomatic skills, could serve as Deputy Leader to assist Langhua. Bai Jiande agreed to this arrangement. He then asked Bai Fengxi about her own plans, suggesting she return to Qingzhou due to the escalating conflicts.

Bai Fengxi replied that Qingzhou did not need her at the moment, and she would remain wherever Hei Fengxi was, willing to support his ambition if he truly loved her and sought to bring peace to the world. Bai Jiande, who regarded Bai Fengxi as his own daughter, advised her to always be cautious and vigilant, never forgetting the dangers of the world, and wished her true happiness.

The next morning, the Tianshuang Sect was rocked by the news of Bai Jiande’s murder. Bai Langhua, distraught, accused Bai Fengxi, who was the last person to see her father alive, of killing him for the leadership position. She pointed to her father's shriveled and wrinkled hands, evidence she claimed of poison. Hei Fengxi tried to intervene, suggesting there was a misunderstanding and promising to investigate the complex matter to find the true killer.

Langhua dismissed his words, accusing both Bai Fengxi and Hei Fengxi of being accomplices, one poisoning, the other covering up, and even disparaging Hei Fengxi. Bai Fengxi denied the accusations, stating she had no desire for the leadership or any ulterior motives. As the crowd grew agitated and some suggested detaining Bai Fengxi, Hei Fengxi declared, "Fountain Abode is here! Make way!" and attempted to leave with Bai Fengxi.

Langhua, in a fit of rage, drew her sword and stabbed Bai Fengxi. With her remaining strength, Bai Fengxi urged Hei Fengxi not to harm anyone. Hei Fengxi then forcibly took the severely wounded Bai Fengxi away, seeking refuge in a dilapidated temple outside the city. Inside the temple, Hei Fengxi desperately searched for a physician. Bai Fengxi, gravely injured, began to speak of what might happen if she died.

Hei Fengxi cut her off, refusing to accept such an outcome, and swore that if the Grim Reaper dared to take her, he would storm Hell itself and tear down the Hall of Yama to bring her back. Bai Fengxi, accepting of her fate, expressed contentment with their shared experiences and urged Hei Fengxi to live well. Hei Fengxi confessed that his life had found purpose only after meeting her and he couldn't imagine living without her.

He then remembered the Lan Yin Flower (also known as Sacred Jade Moon), a rare flower given to him by Old Taiyin, which possessed powerful vitality. He chewed its petals and fed them to the unconscious Bai Fengxi. Unexpectedly, this act not only began to heal Bai Fengxi but also restored his own inner force, which he then used to administer the medicine more effectively. Three days later, Bai Fengxi awakened.

Hei Fengxi explained that the Lan Yin Flower had saved her life and, surprisingly, restored his own inner force. He assured her that Zhong Li and others had kept Tianshuang Sect safe, and Bai Langhua had officially taken over as Leader, with Bai Jiande having been buried two days prior.

Bai Fengxi still felt uneasy about her master’s death, and Hei Fengxi revealed that Bai Jiande’s death resembled his mother’s, both having shriveled, puckered skin on their hands, suggesting they were victims of the same poison. Bai Fengxi realized this was a deliberate frame-up designed to cause unrest within the Tianshuang Sect. Hei Fengxi suspected a connection to the fake Empyrean Token, a matter her master had never mentioned.

Just then, Han Pu arrived, having secretly followed them, worried about Bai Fengxi. He reported that he had secretly examined Bai Jiande's body with a silver needle and found no trace of poison. Hei Fengxi then asked if Han Pu knew of any poisons undetectable by silver needles. Han Pu confirmed such a poison existed, named Qianji, a secret concoction of the Dadong Imperial Family, whose existence was discovered by chance by his ancestors, who served as Imperial Physicians.

Realizing the involvement of the Dadong Imperial Family, Hei Fengxi decided they must travel to the Imperial City. Bai Fengxi agreed, but first wished to visit Bai Jiande's tomb, where she reminisced about their time together, recalling his strict but loving guidance and the peace she found in her memories of the sect.

Meanwhile, in Qingzhou, Feng Xingtao’s son, Feng Xiyue, received grim news from Physician Liu that his father, Feng Xingtao, the Lord of Qingzhou, was suffering from a worsening heart and lung condition and had only months, possibly a little over a month, to live. The Lord of Qingzhou summoned his son, acknowledging his impending death.

He advised his son to be a benevolent ruler, prioritizing the welfare of the people, and to uphold Qingzhou’s ancestral teachings of choosing a wise leader and stabilizing the realm. He warned of the long-standing animosity with Youzhou and the potential invasion following the marriage between the Princess of Youzhou and the Heir of Jizhou. He made his son promise to defend Qingzhou’s territory and protect its people from the ravages of war.

Finally, he expressed a desire to see his daughter, Feng Xiyun, one last time, instructing his son to find her. In Youzhou, Huang Chao and Hua Chunran celebrated their wedding with the Lord of Youzhou. News arrived that the Heir of Qingzhou had been managing state affairs for two months. The Lord of Youzhou, knowing Feng Xingtao's meticulous nature, immediately deduced that the Lord of Qingzhou's health was failing.

He saw this as a divine opportunity to invade Qingzhou, an "opening" that Yu Wuyuan had previously alluded to. He declared his intent to reclaim past losses and present Qingzhou as a wedding gift to Hua Chunran. Huang Chao readily agreed to join the campaign, eager to challenge Qingzhou’s formidable Fengyun Cavalry. Soon after, Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi, accompanied by Zhong Li, arrived in the Dadong Imperial City.

They sought out Tie Dajiangjia, the Head of Wuyun Thirty-Eight Strongholds, whom Bai Fengxi knew from a past confrontation. Bai Fengxi explained their need to enter the Imperial City's hidden market, which had clues regarding Qianji. Tie Dajiangjia recognized Hei Fengxi; Bai Fengxi then confirmed his identity by showing a drawing she had of him. Tie Dajiangjia was initially amused by their relationship but then explained the hidden market’s rules.

To deal with prominent figures like the "Supreme Physician" regarding clues about Qianji, they would need masks denoting higher status than a "Black Mask," such as the "Silver Mask" or Tie Dajiangjia's "Gold-line Mask," indicating a "very rich veteran." He affirmed his stronghold’s reformed ways and agreed to procure three suitable masks to facilitate their entry into the clandestine market.

Episode 33 Recap

Youzhou and Jizhou have formed an alliance, secretly amassing forces, seemingly preparing for war against Qingzhou. The King of Yongzhou convened his ministers to discuss their response. Minister Wang suggested Yongzhou observe for now, stating that Qingzhou was capable of defending itself and that the alliance between Youzhou and Jizhou was a double-edged sword; the Lord of Youzhou would be wary of Huang Chao, who in turn would seek to absorb Youzhou.

Minister Qin immediately disagreed, arguing that if Qingzhou, their neighbor, fell, Yongzhou would be encircled and face severe hardship. He proposed secretly allying with Qingzhou to disrupt the You-Ji deployment. Just then, Feng Ju's report arrived, confirming the successful elimination of bandits in the south. The King of Yongzhou decided to reward the army and immediately dispatch them to the Qingzhou border to act as circumstances dictated.

Meanwhile, Hei Fengxi reflected on the conspiracies surrounding him, understanding why he was so feared. He wondered if his father knew the truth, and what he would do if it came to light. Bai Fengxi, taking his hand, promised they would face whatever came together. After Mr. Tie crafted their masks, Hei Fengxi, Bai Fengxi, and Zhong Li entered the Imperial City's hidden market.

They sought the mysterious Supreme Physician under the guise of procuring 1000-year-old Red Reishi for a gravely ill elder. Hei Fengxi noticed one of the physician's guards was highly skilled and bore a fierce aura, suggesting he was a seasoned warrior, possibly from the Imperial Guards. Bai Fengxi then detected the scent of Lingxiang Herb on the medicine box, a fragrance used by palace staff to mask their presence.

Given that high-quality Red Reishi was a rare tribute, Hei Fengxi concluded the "Supreme Physician" was likely Eunuch Hu, the head of the Imperial Apothecary. Zhong Li then apprehended Eunuch Hu and brought him to Hei Fengxi, who questioned him about the Qianji poison. Eunuch Hu initially denied involvement but confessed to being the Supreme Physician when threatened. He revealed that Qianji poison was a palace secret, extremely expensive, and only two portions had ever been sold.

He maintained that market rules prevented him from knowing the buyers' identities but admitted to keeping portraits of them in the Imperial Palace as a safety measure. Hei Fengxi demanded Eunuch Hu lead them there. As they infiltrated the Imperial Palace, Hei Fengxi examined the buyer portraits. One painting depicted a woman wearing a Safety Amulet, an ornament specific to Yongzhou's royal harem. He suspected she was a Qianji poison purchaser and possibly connected to his mother's death.

He then demanded a portion of the poison from Eunuch Hu. Just as Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi were preparing to leave with the Qianji poison, an alarm sounded throughout the palace, announcing the Emperor's assassination. Eunuch Hu, panicking, denied having reported anything. Imperial physicians were summoned. Outside, Eunuch Zhang Jin of Dadong's palace met Yu Wuyuan, confirming the assassination mission was complete and the Emperor was dead.

General Dong Shufang began searching for the assassin, forcing Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi to hide in a cabinet. Just as the general approached their hiding spot, a report arrived that Eunuch Zhang Jin had gone missing, prompting the general to leave and saving the duo from discovery. With the palace now on lockdown, Yu Wuyuan rushed to meet the Crown Prince.

General Dong Shufang urged the Crown Prince to immediately seal off the Imperial City and prevent news of the Emperor's death from spreading. Yu Wuyuan disagreed, arguing that the news would inevitably leak, and it was better to announce it to the world.

He reasoned that a hero is born in troubled times, and only amidst the impending chaos, when all Six States inevitably vied for power and attacked the Imperial City, would the Crown Prince have a slim chance of securing his succession. The Crown Prince ultimately heeded Yu Wuyuan’s advice and decreed that the news of his father’s passing be announced to all Six States. Outside the Imperial Palace, Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi encountered Bai Langhua and her companions.

Han Pu examined Bai Jiande's body, confirming he died from Qianji poison, a rare poison used by the Dadong Imperial Army, which silver needles cannot detect. Bai Langhua, realizing her grave mistake, tearfully apologized to Bai Fengxi, who accepted her apology and reassured her there was no need for further regret. Meanwhile, Zhong Li found a body outside the palace, identified as the missing Eunuch Zhang Jin, killed by a single strike from the Soultaker Sect's blade.

Hei Fengxi deduced a far-reaching conspiracy: the Qianji poison was used to lure them to Dadong, followed by the assassination of the Dadong Emperor, suggesting a much larger scheme at play. Hei Fengxi theorized that their master, Bai Jiande, must have uncovered a secret that led to his death. With the Dadong Emperor dead, regional powers were now covetous, signaling imminent widespread conflict.

Bai Fengxi assured Bai Langhua that she would personally investigate their master's death and bring the culprit to justice, while urging Langhua to focus on rebuilding their sect and protecting their juniors. Separately, a member of the Soultaker Sect met with Minister Wang of Yongzhou, urging him to re-open the old case from Yongzhou, hinting that the time for a long-planned scheme was now.

Hei Fengxi recalled that shortly after his mother's death, a palace servant matching the description in the portrait left the palace and was still alive. He decided to return to Yongzhou to pursue this lead, with Bai Fengxi accompanying him. They visited Du Xianniang, who confessed that she was bribed by Baili to buy medicine from the Imperial City's hidden market. She claimed she was unaware it was poison until the late queen's sudden death.

She revealed that someone secretly helped her escape Baili's clutches and leave the palace safely. Hei Fengxi was devastated to learn his mother was poisoned. He vowed to expose Baili's crimes and bring justice for his mother, realizing the conspiracy extended beyond mere palace rivalry to involve high-ranking court officials. He also instructed Zhong Li to gather more evidence from the Fountain Abode, after learning Du Xianniang and her family were already under protection.

In Yongzhou, Feng Qiwu reported her recent findings to Hei Fengxi. She discovered the King of Yongzhou's large military deployment, ostensibly for rewarding the southern army, was actually intended to assess the situation regarding Qingzhou. She surmised his aim was to prevent Jizhou and Youzhou from seizing Qingzhou, which would endanger Yongzhou. Hei Fengxi recognized that with much of its military force deployed, Yongzhou's capital was currently at its weakest.

He instructed Feng Qiwu to closely monitor any movements within the court and report them immediately. Concurrently, concerned about the Jizhou-Youzhou threat, Bai Fengxi sent a message to Qingzhou to inquire about her father and brother. In Qingzhou, Feng Xieyue convened with his generals. They discussed the imminent Youzhou advance and the offer of aid from Yongzhou.

Despite the Yongzhou emissary promising assistance if requested, Feng Xieyue and his generals were wary, viewing Yongzhou as another opportunistic state seeking to exploit Qingzhou. They decided against seeking Yongzhou's help. General Xu was dispatched with 30,000 Fengyun Cavalry to Langcheng to defend against Youzhou, while General Qi secretly led a team to Lingcheng to intercept Huang Chao's Skyrider Cavalry if they arrived.

Meanwhile, Minister Wang informed Baili that Feng Lanxi had uncovered the Qianji poison and was gathering evidence, intending to report her to the King. Baili, enraged, accused Minister Wang of dragging her into the plot years ago. Minister Wang reminded her that she had achieved her ambition of becoming queen and residing in Fengyi Palace. He proposed a palace coup as their only recourse. He pointed out that Feng Ju, having successfully suppressed bandits in the south, commanded substantial forces.

He suggested Feng Ju return under the guise of "cleansing the court" to apprehend Feng Lanxi, thereby eliminating his rival for the position of heir. Minister Wang revealed his plan: the King's birthday in seven days would be the perfect timing. Baili was to obtain the King's Military Tally, allowing the city defense garrison to replace Zhao Hai's Royal Army in guarding the palace.

Subsequently, Baili would receive a secret letter falsely accusing Feng Lanxi of planning a rebellion during the birthday celebrations, providing Feng Ju with a pretext to "cleanse the court." Recognizing the gravity of the scheme, Baili remained hesitant, stating she needed time to consider. Elsewhere, Yu Wuyuan was informed that Feng Lanxi had found Du Xianniang, signifying "the fish had bitten the bait," and instructed that everything proceed according to their overall plan with Jizhou, including leveraging Feng Ju.

Yu Wuyuan also had it confirmed to his agent, Minister Wang, that the agent's mother was well in Jizhou, assuring him of her safety and their eventual reunion after the world was unified.

Episode 34 Recap

Upon hearing that Baili had fallen ill, Feng Ju rushed back to the capital in disguise, despite military protocol. Baili revealed that her involvement in the murder of the late Queen Yige had been exposed, and Feng Lanxi was gathering evidence to publicly accuse her. Fearing public disgrace and wanting to protect Feng Ju, she considered taking her own life. When Feng Ju asked what he could do, Baili instructed him to "stage a coup."

Feng Ju expressed concern about the consequences of failure, but Baili reminded him that she had acted out of necessity to protect them and that the title of heir was not yet secure. She also noted that Feng Ju had been secretly amassing his own army, indicating his own concerns. Feng Ju confessed he was doing this for self-preservation, believing he couldn't compete with Feng Lanxi's excellence in Yong Wang's eyes.

Recognizing the opportunity with Yong Wang's main army deployed south, Feng Ju agreed to the coup but requested Baili's assistance. She pledged her support, and Feng Ju promised to protect her in return. Meanwhile, Zhong Li presented Feng Lanxi with a list of officials involved in framing the late Queen Yige. Feng Lanxi identified Duke Liang among them and confronted him.

Feng Lanxi accused Duke Liang of conspiring with Minister Wang and Baili 21 years ago to poison Queen Yige with Nux Vomica. He presented a secret letter from Baili to Duke Liang, which a servant had saved, proving the plot. Feng Lanxi asked why they harmed his mother, who had been beneficial to Yongzhou. Duke Liang revealed that Queen Yige was a member of the Dadong Imperial Family; they initially used her to strengthen ties.

However, once Yongzhou prospered, her continued presence would forever bind Yongzhou to the weakening Dadong, hindering its ambition to conquer the world. Her death also opened up the heir's position. Duke Liang claimed Yong Wang was unaware of their specific actions. Official Zhang Zhongge, who had been secretly listening to Duke Liang's confession, stepped forward to announce the duke's conviction for plotting against the late queen, a crime considered rebellion.

Feng Lanxi then offered Duke Liang a chance to save his family by admitting his guilt in court, which Duke Liang accepted. Immediately after, Zhong Li burst in with urgent news: Feng Ju was staging a coup. The reported "bandit suppression" was merely a cover for Feng Ju to secretly amass his own army. Feng Lanxi instructed Zhong Li to gather Du Xianniang and Duke Liang, keeping them ready as witnesses.

Zhang Zhongge expressed concern about how Feng Ju's massive troop movements went undetected. Feng Lanxi explained that local officials in cities like Zhangcheng and Xiaocheng were likely bribed and turned a blind eye, especially considering Feng Ju's status as a favored prince. Zhang Zhongge urged Feng Lanxi to immediately inform Yong Wang in the palace. As Feng Lanxi prepared to go to the palace with Zhang Zhongge, Feng Qiwu arrived and reported alarming changes in the palace's security.

She saw Zhao Hai, the head of the Royal Army, and noticed that the Royal Army had been replaced by the city defense garrison, whose guards were loyal to Minister Wang. Feng Lanxi recognized this as part of Feng Ju's calculated rebellion. With most of Yongzhou's military forces deployed elsewhere, he realized there was no time to recall them.

He concluded that Yancheng, where the Feng family's hidden army had been stationed for generations, was their only hope for timely intervention. Since Yong Wang was in the palace and couldn't issue the commander's tally, Feng Lanxi asked Feng Qiwu to personally travel to Yancheng to mobilize the troops. Bai Fengxi volunteered to accompany Feng Qiwu for her protection, and Feng Lanxi assented, urging them to be careful. Feng Lanxi then proceeded to the palace with Zhang Zhongge.

At Yong Wang's 50th birthday banquet, which was a muted affair due to the recent death of the Dadong Emperor, Baili attempted to sow discord. She remarked on Feng Lanxi being seen in the Imperial City purchasing Lingzhi, implying he prioritized the Dadong Imperial Family over his own father by attending to his late uncle but missing Yong Wang's birthday. Yong Wang was clearly displeased, feeling Feng Lanxi was closer to Dadong royalty.

Meanwhile, Feng Ju was confident his forces, ready to attack, would frame Feng Lanxi perfectly. Suddenly, a report arrived: an army of 30,000 was besieging the city, conspicuously flying the banner of Marquis Yongping, Feng Lanxi. Yong Wang, furious, demanded more information. As the news of the siege spread, ministers immediately accused Feng Lanxi of treason and rebellion.

Feng Ju seized the opportunity, offering to lead a sortie to seek reinforcements, but stipulated that he needed Yong Wang's commander's tally to do so. Minister Wang supported Feng Ju, urging Yong Wang to act swiftly without hesitation. Yong Wang, under pressure, ordered Yuan Lu to fetch the tally. As he handed it to Feng Ju, he emphasized the immense responsibility that came with commanding an army, cautioning him to weigh his actions carefully.

Capitalizing on the moment, Feng Ju then declared that the tally would be ineffective unless he was formally named the Heir. Faced with no other options, Yong Wang reluctantly issued a decree, denouncing Feng Lanxi as a traitor and officially proclaiming Feng Ju as the Heir of Yongzhou. Feng Lanxi dramatically entered the hall, publicly challenging who was truly orchestrating the rebellion and commanding the besieging army.

Feng Ju attempted to blame Feng Lanxi, but Zhang Zhongge stepped forward, presenting irrefutable evidence that the attacking forces were under Feng Ju's command, intended to frame Feng Lanxi. Feng Ju, panicking, tried to discredit Zhang Zhongge, but Zhang Zhongge countered by exposing Minister Wang's suspicious move of replacing the Royal Army with his personal city defense garrison.

As Zhang Zhongge handed the evidence to Yong Wang, Minister Wang covertly urged Feng Ju to capture Feng Lanxi to resolve the crisis. Guards moved to seize Feng Lanxi, but he effortlessly fended them off, revealing his recovered martial arts skills, to Feng Ju's shock. Yong Wang, having reviewed the evidence, confronted a silent Feng Ju.

Minister Wang then advised Feng Ju that with their plot exposed, there was no turning back, and he must not surrender his military command, lest all their efforts be in vain. Feng Ju, embracing his true intentions, declared that he only sought the Heir title and military power, and the current situation was not his fault. Yong Wang, enraged, ordered Feng Lanxi to arrest Feng Ju.

Just as the confrontation escalated, Minister Wang escalated further, demanding Yong Wang abdicate and issue a decree for Feng Lanxi's execution, claiming this was the only way to resolve the crisis. Feng Lanxi then publicly exposed Minister Wang as a deep-cover spy from Jizhou, a fact Minister Wang coolly admitted, explaining his goal was a non-aggression pact if Feng Ju ascended. Feeling betrayed but also emboldened, Feng Ju unleashed his true bitterness.

He admitted his actions stemmed from Feng Lanxi's superior abilities and his own fear of being forever suppressed. He accused Feng Lanxi of hypocrisy and scathingly condemned Yong Wang for his singular focus on power and his distrust of his own sons, citing Feng Lanxi's past disinheritance and loss of martial arts as prime examples. He even insinuated that Feng Lanxi suspected Yong Wang's involvement in Queen Yige's death, prompting his secret investigation.

Feng Lanxi, with his mother’s murder finally brought to light, formally accused Queen Baili, Minister Wang, and Duke Liang of poisoning Queen Yige, presenting all the evidence. Yong Wang was visibly stunned. Baili, in a moment of desperate honesty, admitted to the murder, stating it was necessary for her to become queen and for Feng Ju to become heir. Minister Wang, seizing on the chaos, again pressed Yong Wang to abdicate.

Feng Ju, in a fit of rage, ordered dozens of archers, who had been hiding outside, to storm in and aim at Feng Lanxi. Minister Wang, thinking he still held leverage, taunted Feng Lanxi, claiming that if he were killed, explosives planted outside the palace would detonate. However, Feng Chang stepped in, revealing that he, at Feng Lanxi's instruction, had already cleared all the explosives from around the palace.

Just then, Feng Qiwu and Bai Fengxi arrived, announcing that the rebel leader had been captured and the outside forces had surrendered. Minister Wang's plan was completely thwarted. Yong Wang, now fully aware of the treachery, immediately ordered the arrest of Baili, Feng Ju, and the traitorous Minister Wang. Feng Lanxi brought Du Xianniang and Duke Liang forward as key witnesses.

In a frantic attempt to save herself, Baili desperately tried to shift all blame onto Minister Wang, claiming she was merely a pawn in his scheme. Minister Wang, however, exposed her complicity, stating he only "fueled the fire" because she harbored her own ambitions. Baili then lashed back, accusing Minister Wang of instigating the poisoning of Queen Yige and later manipulating her into the coup.

Feng Chang confronted Baili, asking if she felt any remorse for Queen Yige, but Baili focused on defending Feng Ju. Feng Ju, utterly unrepentant, directed his anger at Yong Wang. He bitterly recounted a life lived in fear and constant scrutiny under his father, claiming Yong Wang's focus was solely on power and the throne, even fearing his own capable sons like Feng Lanxi, whom he stripped of martial arts and exiled.

Feng Ju contended that his actions were merely a struggle for survival and that if Yong Wang truly valued paternal affection, Feng Lanxi would not have been kept in the dark about his mother's true cause of death for so long. Enraged by Feng Ju’s words, Yong Wang ordered him and the other conspirators to be taken away. Yong Wang issued his judgment: Minister Wang and other conspirators were to be imprisoned in the dungeon.

Queen Baili, for her crimes of treason and poisoning Queen Yige, was "given white silk to end her life." Prince Feng Ju was "relegated to a commoner" and banished from the capital forever. Before his exile, Feng Ju was granted a final visit to Baili. He entered her palace, initially believing this gesture of mercy proved his father's underlying affection. He expressed a newfound sense of peace in not being the Heir, thinking it would grant him freedom.

However, his words turned to despair as he discovered Baili's lifeless body, leaving him profoundly devastated. Feng Lanxi paid a visit to Yong Wang, who admitted he couldn't sleep all night, reflecting on the tumultuous events. Yong Wang confessed to having wronged Queen Yige and neglecting Feng Lanxi. Feng Lanxi, however, reassured his father that he held no resentment, understanding Yong Wang's burdens as the ruler of Yongzhou.

Yong Wang noted Feng Lanxi's exceptional understanding had, paradoxically, created a distance between them. Acknowledging Feng Lanxi as his "only heir" and reflecting on his own past mistakes of trying to grasp too much, Yong Wang declared that he had decided to "entrust the position of Heir" to Feng Lanxi.

Episode 35 Recap

After the palace coup was settled, the Yong King decided to name Feng Lanxi as his successor, acknowledging that Feng Lanxi was now his only viable heir. The King reflected on his past mistakes, admitting that his desire to control everything ultimately led to nothing. He asked Feng Lanxi about his plans for the future.

Feng Lanxi asked for guidance, to which the King pointed out the dwindling power of the Imperial Family and the wild ambitions of other states, especially Jizhou's cunning. He stressed that the future of Yongzhou was now in Feng Lanxi's hands. The King advised Feng Lanxi to conduct himself with propriety in both court and personal matters, urging him to cease his involvement in the martial arts world to avoid controversy. Feng Lanxi promised to heed his father's teachings.

The King also brought up marriage, suggesting Feng Lanxi find a partner who would benefit Yongzhou, but ultimately left the choice to him, trusting that Feng Lanxi would always prioritize Yongzhou's interests. Later, the Yong King was informed that the Queen had been buried and Prince Ju's mental state remained unimproved. He lamented the loneliness that often accompanies a ruler. After his conversation with his father, Feng Lanxi expressed his deep gratitude to Bai Fengxi, proposing to her.

He told her that meeting her when he first entered the martial arts world had opened his eyes to the kindness of the world and taught him about true feelings, giving him a renewed appreciation for life. At the court assembly, the Yong King officially enfeoffed Feng Lanxi as the Heir of Lord of Yongzhou, praising his virtues, morality, loyalty, and ambition.

The King urged Feng Lanxi to dedicate himself to the prosperity of Yongzhou and the protection of its people, warning him not to disappoint his ancestors. Feng Lanxi respectfully accepted the charge. Later, Feng Lanxi brought Bai Fengxi to the ancestral temple to pay respects to his late mother, Queen Yige. He informed his mother that those who had wronged her had faced justice and wished her peace.

He then introduced Bai Fengxi as the woman he wished to spend his life with. Bai Fengxi, in turn, vowed to Queen Yige that she would protect and care for Feng Lanxi. Afterward, Feng Lanxi told Bai Fengxi that with Yongzhou's matters settled, his next step was to marry her. He explained that bringing her to his mother was a sign of his sincerity.

When Bai Fengxi confirmed her willingness, he stressed that this decision was for life and she should not regret it. She readily agreed, and they shared a tender embrace. Soon after, a messenger arrived with urgent news from Qingzhou. Bai Fengxi learned that Youzhou's army was invading, and while her brother, Feng Xieyue, was engaging them, their father, the Qing King, was gravely ill.

She was upset that she hadn't been informed sooner, learning that her father had been sick for a year and Feng Xieyue had kept it secret to spare her worry. Bai Fengxi immediately resolved to return. That night, Bai Fengxi prepared snacks for Feng Lanxi. She remarked on his new role as the Heir of Lord, no longer just "Black Foxy," and wished him success, peace, and the ability to protect Yongzhou's people.

Feng Lanxi noticed her unusual behavior and words. He admitted that during his enfeoffment ceremony, he wished he could have both the world and her by his side. Bai Fengxi then revealed her need to leave Yongzhou for a while. Feng Lanxi confirmed he knew she was Princess Feng Xiyun of Qingzhou and insisted on accompanying her.

He reminded her of their promise to face everything together, arguing that just as she supported him in Yongzhou, he would not abandon her when Qingzhou faced crisis. Convinced, Bai Fengxi agreed, and they departed immediately for Qingzhou. Upon arriving, Bai Fengxi first met her brother, Feng Xieyue, who explained their father’s illness had been kept secret to prevent her worry. Bai Fengxi then went to see her father, who, despite his severe illness, was overjoyed to see her.

The Qing King praised her accomplishments and beauty, expressing pride in her. He lamented that Youzhou and Jizhou were jointly attacking Qingzhou, and Feng Xieyue was overwhelmed with both political and military duties, fearing he was no match for Huang Chao. Bai Fengxi assured her father she would help Feng Xieyue defend Qingzhou. The Qing King then reflected on his lifelong dedication to state affairs, admitting his regret at not spending more time with his family.

He noted Feng Xiyun's resemblance to her mother but her differing, prideful personality. Bai Fengxi learned from Feng Xieyue that their father would not last much longer, having been ill for a year. She was consumed by guilt for having spent a year wandering the martial arts world while her father suffered, neglecting her duties. Feng Xieyue, however, comforted her, stating their father would not want her to be sad.

He then proposed a strategy for the immediate crisis: Bai Fengxi would stay in the palace to manage Qingzhou's internal affairs, while he, as the Heir, would lead the army to the front lines, refusing to send his sister into battle. He vowed to return safely, emphasizing the critical need for a victory to secure Qingzhou's position in the impending war among the Six States following Emperor Chunxi's death.

Bai Fengxi agreed to his plan, promising to manage the internal affairs and await his triumphant return. Later, while visiting her late mother's memorial tablet, Feng Xiyun poured out her heart, expressing her fear for her father's passing and her brother's safety, feeling helpless. She found solace in Feng Lanxi's unwavering support, recounting how he had always stayed by her side and promised to aid Qingzhou.

She vowed to her mother that she would grow up, take responsibility, and protect the people of Qingzhou. Meanwhile, Huang Chao continued his military deployment. Despite Youzhou's vanguard army being defeated, he remained composed. His strategy involved Youzhou feigning attacks on Langcheng to draw Qingzhou's forces in, a tactic that Hua Chunran, the Lord of Youzhou's daughter, questioned, believing her Golden Armor Cavalry could easily overrun Langcheng.

Huang Chao explained that rushing to conquer Langcheng would compromise their larger plan to ambush Qingzhou. He aimed to create a false sense of security for the enemy, thereby luring them deeper. He also revealed his awareness of Feng Lanxi becoming the Heir of Lord of Yongzhou, acknowledging him as a rival and patiently waiting for an opportunity to dismantle Qingzhou.

Yu Wuyuan, in turn, informed Huang Chao that Qingzhou possessed not only Feng Xieyue but also the renowned Princess Feng Xiyun, hinting at her importance. Soon, the Qing King summoned Feng Lanxi to the palace, curious about his daughter's choice of partner. The King acknowledged Feng Lanxi's double identity as Hei Fengxi and Feng Xiyun's as Bai Fengxi, commenting on their fated connection.

While generally impressed, the King sternly warned Feng Lanxi, whose reputation for being a "bully" preceded him, that he was never to mistreat his daughter. Feng Lanxi promised to cherish Feng Xiyun always. The Qing King then offered profound advice, emphasizing that despite belonging to different states, their shared love and honesty would overcome any obstacles.

He spoke of his own regrets from a life dedicated solely to state affairs, urging Feng Lanxi to balance national duties with family time, lest he suffer lifelong remorse. Feng Lanxi assured the King he understood, and the Qing King expressed his trust in his daughter's choice. In the Qingzhou encampment, General Xu Yuan reported to Feng Xieyue that while Youzhou's vanguard had been defeated, their formidable Golden Armor Cavalry remained unengaged, suggesting a full assault was imminent.

He expressed concern over the presence of Huang Chao and Yu Wuyuan within the Youzhou camp, fearing unforeseen variables. Feng Xieyue, confident in the Fengyun Cavalry, ordered his forces to prepare for battle. General Xu also voiced worries about Qingzhou's future amidst the burgeoning conflict among the Six States. Feng Xieyue reassured him that he and Feng Xiyun would jointly defend Qingzhou's future, with her handling internal affairs. Moments later, a scout reported that 20,000 Youzhou troops were rapidly approaching.

Feng Xieyue, surprised by their swiftness, immediately ordered his generals to launch a full defense. He instructed General Xu to prioritize the evacuation of all civilians to Licheng while he personally led the charge against the Youzhou army. Unbeknownst to them, Yu Wuyuan had orchestrated an ambush, specifically targeting Feng Xieyue. Amidst the fierce battle, Feng Xieyue was struck by a poisoned arrow and fatally wounded.

Yu Wuyuan's subordinate confirmed Feng Xieyue's death, ensuring the news spread that Youzhou was responsible, thereby instigating deep animosity between Qingzhou and the combined forces of Jizhou and Youzhou, plunging the realm into widespread conflict. He noted that Feng Xiyun would now be forced into the battlefield. The devastating news of Langcheng's fall and Feng Xieyue's death soon reached Qingzhou.

A Fengyun Cavalry soldier reported that Youzhou's Golden Armor Cavalry had ambushed Langcheng, and Feng Xieyue, leading the defense, had succumbed to a poisoned arrow. His body was brought to the palace gates. Overwhelmed with grief, Bai Fengxi confronted her brother's lifeless body, lamenting his broken promise to return safely. Soldiers knelt before her, explaining that Feng Xieyue had died protecting the people, having ensured their evacuation to Licheng before his final stand.

Bai Fengxi, despite her immense pain, acknowledged their bravery, absolved them of blame, and confirmed the safety of the civilians. She then went to her father. The Qing King, already aware of his son's fate, recounted a vision of Feng Xieyue, smiling, assuring him he had not shamed Qingzhou and had protected its people until his last breath. Reflecting on his son's courage in facing death, the King declared that he too should face his end with dignity.

With a heavy heart, he addressed Bai Fengxi, informing her of a historical precedent: the first Qing King, Feng Duying, was a valiant female general and the only Queen in the Dadong Empire. He then bestowed the ultimate responsibility upon her, proclaiming that after his passing, she would inherit the throne and become the Dadong Empire's second Queen.

Episode 36 Recap

The Qing King, on his deathbed, entrusted his daughter Feng Xiyun with the throne, telling her that if she was ambitious, she should become the second female ruler of the Dadong Empire, a queen who would surpass all ancestors and be unparalleled in history. He expressed his regret for not being able to provide her with a life of carefree happiness, where she could simply play freely, and acknowledged that now she must uphold the sky herself.

He reminded her that in a time when the Imperial Family was in decline and states were producing many talents, the balance of the Six States was precarious. Feng Xiyun promised her father that she would protect the people of Qingzhou and remember his words, assuring him that neither she nor her mother or brother ever blamed him. Meanwhile, in Youzhou, the Lord of Youzhou, elated by a major victory, declared his intention to swiftly conquer all of Qingzhou.

Yu Wuyuan advised caution, suggesting it was too soon to advance. He reasoned that Qingzhou, having just lost Langcheng and suffering immense grief, would be recuperating and waiting for the opportune moment to retaliate fiercely. Huang Chao concurred, proposing they should deliberate at length and wait for the Jizhou Skyrider Cavalry. Later, upon hearing that Qingzhou had raised the Baifeng flag and Feng Xiyun had ascended the throne, Huang Chao discussed with Yu Wuyuan.

Yu Wuyuan suggested that retreating would be the best strategy for the Lord of Youzhou, but due to his arrogance, he would not agree. Yu Wuyuan then pointed out that the Lord's eventual defeat would greatly benefit Huang Chao in gaining control over Youzhou, a plan Huang Chao found somewhat cruel. Yu Wuyuan noted that on the battlefield, one either advances or retreats, and that it was time to confront Feng Xiyun and Feng Lanxi.

With her father and brother gone, Qingzhou appointed Princess Feng Xiyun to succeed the throne. Amidst the support of her ministers, Feng Xiyun was successfully crowned Queen of Qingzhou. She stood for a day, gazing over the entire Qingzhou, the land her father and brother had spent their lives protecting. She mourned the loss of her family, feeling she was alone. Feng Lanxi found her and comforted her, reminding her that she still had him.

He assured her that from now on, she would protect the people and fight on the battlefield just as her father and brother did, and he would be by her side no matter what she decided. He further offered the support of the Moyu Cavalry and the Fountain Abode as her backup. Feng Xiyun understood his devotion but insisted she would not draw upon his full resources unless absolutely necessary.

Feng Lanxi promised to protect her with all his might, having made vows to the Qing King, Feng Xiyue, and himself. Feng Xiyun addressed her ministers, vowing to reclaim lost territories and protect her people, and asked for their strategies to defeat the enemy. General Lin Ji expressed his readiness to lead the Fengyun Cavalry to drive out the invaders and avenge the late King and Prince.

Feng Xiyun then ordered General Cheng Zhi to remain in the capital to oversee its defense, while Generals Qi Shu and Lin Ji were to tally the remaining Fengyun Cavalry and join her in Licheng to battle the enemy. She stressed that Qingzhou would not be easily humiliated.

Upon hearing that Qingzhou had raised the Baifeng flag, Huang Chao realized that Feng Xiyun intended to follow in her ancestors' footsteps and was surprised that she was the first among the younger generation to ascend the throne. He noted that he had long suspected Bai Fengxi was Feng Xiyun, and where Bai Fengxi was, Hei Fengxi would surely be. This made the upcoming war a difficult one to win.

A scout reported that the Golden Armor Cavalry vanguard would arrive by dusk the next day or dawn the day after. Feng Xiyun decided to set an ambush at Mount Yi, their inevitable passage. She was confident in the mountain's terrain for hiding troops, despite its apparent lack of cover, based on her extensive travels. General Qi Shu was ordered to lead 500 men to ambush the vanguard and quickly weaken their forces without prolonged engagement.

Feng Lanxi complimented the Fengyun Cavalry, noting their discipline and capability, calling them "worthy of their name." He observed that Feng Xiyun was increasingly embodying the aura of a queen. Feng Xiyun also ordered the evacuation of Licheng's residents to Yangcheng and Qicheng, ensuring sufficient supplies were in place, resolute in fighting a victorious battle to honor her deceased brother. The ambush at Mount Yi proved successful.

The 30,000-strong Golden Armor Cavalry vanguard lost several thousand men even before reaching Licheng. Feng Xiyun predicted Youzhou's main vanguard would arrive at dawn the next day and attack immediately, aiming to compensate for their earlier losses. She planned to use the Bloody Phoenix Formation, created by her ancestor. Feng Lanxi suggested adjustments to the formation, fearing Youzhou, having fought Qingzhou for years, might have a counter-strategy.

Feng Xiyun agreed, acknowledging the need for caution against Huang Chao and Yu Wuyuan, who possessed greater insight than ordinary Youzhou officers. She brought forth the formation's diagram, and Feng Lanxi swore an oath never to reveal its secrets. The formation, created by Qingzhou's first ruler, Feng Duying, had helped Emperor Weilie pacify the four directions and was famed for its unpredictability.

Feng Duying, who valued freedom, declined Emperor Weilie’s proposal to share the throne and instead accepted a territory, leading to the division of the land into Six States. Qingzhou, historically peace-loving, rarely used the formation, but Feng Xiyun declared that given her father's passing and her brother's murder, she had no choice but to deploy it to protect her people. As the Golden Armor Cavalry approached within a hundred zhang of the city, Feng Xiyun gave the order to engage.

The 30,000 Youzhou army was completely annihilated overnight under the power of the Bloody Phoenix Formation. The Lord of Youzhou was enraged and demanded a way to break the formation from Yu Wuyuan. Yu Wuyuan explained that the formation was famously unyielding, never having been broken before. Huang Chao suggested that victory was still possible if they first observed the formation.

The Lord of Youzhou, taking this advice, ordered Meng Hai to lead 5,000 elite soldiers to attack the city at nine in the morning, solely for observation. Huang Chao questioned Yu Wuyuan about a sachet he had given to Ye Yan, which was supposed to contain a method to break the formation. Yu Wuyuan admitted that while it did, Feng Xiyun had made changes to the Bloody Phoenix Formation.

He pointed out that with Feng Lanxi assisting Feng Xiyun, they were formidable adversaries for Huang Chao in his quest for power. Huang Chao then asked what they were waiting for. Yu Wuyuan revealed he was waiting for Youzhou’s ultimate weapon: the artilleries, which were the reason they came to Youzhou.

Huang Chao expressed concern about the devastating destruction and countless lives the artilleries would cost, but Yu Wuyuan argued that such powerful weapons should be in their hands to prevent greater bloodshed, asserting that it depended on who controlled them. The Lord of Youzhou, observing Meng Hai’s attack, found that Feng Xiyun hadn’t even deployed the Bloody Phoenix Formation, yet he lost 3,000 more elite troops.

Realizing that Huang Chao was strategically letting him and Qingzhou weaken each other, the Lord of Youzhou, infuriated, ordered the artilleries to be prepared to attack Licheng the day after tomorrow. Feng Xiyun and Feng Lanxi had anticipated this, as Feng Xiyun's goal in blocking Youzhou at Licheng was precisely to force the Lord of Youzhou to deploy these destructive weapons so they could destroy them.

They acknowledged the immense power of artilleries, capable of injuring hundreds with a single shot and breaching the strongest city walls. During their attempt to destroy the artilleries, they only managed to ruin one of the five before Huang Chao appeared, making it impossible to destroy the rest. Feng Xiyun decided on a strategy of "advancing by retreat."

Yu Wuyuan inferred that Feng Xiyun had intentionally given up Licheng to target the remaining four artilleries, understanding that attacking the Youzhou camp directly would be too difficult, and Licheng offered a familiar ground with only one possible location to store them. While Huang Chao and Yu Wuyuan waited to intercept them, their conversation provided a crucial distraction, and all the remaining artilleries were destroyed.

The Lord of Youzhou was furious upon hearing the news of his destroyed artilleries, vowing to capture Feng Xiyun and continue the war until her defeat. Huang Chao remained calm, choosing not to intervene yet. He observed that Feng Xiyun's strategy of disrupting the enemy's mind was highly effective, as her successive actions since Licheng had left the Lord of Youzhou agitated and disoriented.

He decided to first understand his enemy's tactics before acting, mentioning Wuhui Valley as the next battleground where he wondered who would not make it out alive. At the same time, Bai Langhua, along with Xiurong and Han Pu, arrived in Licheng. Bai Langhua reported that while sorting through her deceased father's belongings, she discovered a fragmented jade pendant was missing.

She recalled her father consulting a jade carver in the Yongzhou dungeon who identified the pendant as originating from the Empyrean Yu family. This led her to suspect Yu Wuyuan took the pendant and was her father's killer. She further explained that she, Xiurong, and Han Pu had tracked Yu Wuyuan and Huang Chao to Licheng. There, they found Qingzhou forces, led by General Qi Shu, attempting to destroy the artilleries while surrounded by Youzhou troops.

They assisted by igniting the gunpowder in the firearms camp and setting the barracks on fire, creating a diversion that allowed everyone to escape. Feng Xiyun praised Han Pu for his brave actions. Bai Langhua then revealed their intention to travel to the borders to seek out other Token Keepers for more evidence, given Yu Wuyuan's cunning nature.

Episode 37 Recap

Bai Langhua, while organizing her late father's belongings, uncovered letters from the Lord of Qingzhou that revealed her martial sister’s true identity. Now with a lead on a jade pendant, she decided to set off for the borders. Concerned about Han Pu’s young age and the perilous journey, she entrusted him to Feng Xiyun. Feng Xiyun initially planned to send Han Pu back to his sect, but he insisted on staying in the camp to aid injured soldiers.

Feng Lanxi assured Feng Xiyun he would have Zhong Li ensure Han Pu's safety. Bai Langhua then departed, promising to send any relevant letters. Feng Xiyun pondered Yu Wuyuan’s motive if he was indeed her master’s killer, suspecting a connection to the Empyrean Token. Feng Lanxi agreed, noting that the Empyrean Token was part of Dadong’s schemes, making Yu Wuyuan’s involvement, especially given his alliance with Huang Chao, perplexing.

Feng Lanxi vowed to have the Fountain Abode thoroughly investigate the Empyrean Yu family's ties to the Empyrean Token to find answers and honor Master Bai. Both Feng Xiyun and Feng Lanxi also realized that Youzhou’s recent heavy losses and the destruction of its artillery were likely orchestrated by Huang Chao to deplete both Youzhou and Qingzhou’s forces. They predicted that the stubborn and anxious Lord of Youzhou would lead his army into battle himself.

As anticipated, the Lord of Youzhou declared his intent to personally lead his "mighty and powerful army" into war, seeking to avenge his humiliating defeats. Although his general, Meng Hai, and even Huang Chao initially advised caution, Huang Chao quickly switched to feigning support, wishing the Lord of Youzhou victory while he watched from a distance with Yu Wuyuan. He spoke confidently of future triumphs over Qingzhou and Yongzhou.

Qingzhou's Bloody Phoenix Formation, commanded by the formidable Qi Shu, swiftly overwhelmed the Golden Armor Cavalry. Huang Chao, observing the formation's power, recognized the battle's inevitable outcome. He suggested to the frenzied Lord of Youzhou that it was time to withdraw, offering him a dignified retreat. However, driven by a desperate desire for victory, the Lord of Youzhou refused to relent, ordering his troops to continue their desperate fight. Witnessing the senseless slaughter, Feng Xiyun charged onto the battlefield.

She fired an arrow that struck the Lord of Youzhou’s helmet, knocking him from his war chariot. Her intention was merely to intimidate him into retreating, not to take his life. Thanks to Yu Wuyuan’s medical expertise, the Lord of Youzhou's life was saved, but he remained unconscious, severely shocked and his vitality depleted. He would be unable to lead in battle again. Sensing an opportune moment, Hua Chunran confronted Huang Chao.

She directly questioned why his Skyrider Cavalry had delayed their arrival until now, suspecting he had deliberately waited for the right moment to advance his own agenda. Huang Chao, feigning innocence, attributed the delay to the long journey from Jizhou. Hua Chunran, acknowledging their intertwined destinies through marriage, pressed him on his plans for Youzhou, which was now leaderless and vulnerable. Huang Chao, praising her extraordinary intelligence above that of Youzhou's princes, subtly suggested she ascend to the throne.

He offered to lead Youzhou's military forces as her commander, hinting that if he were to conquer the world, she would become his empress. In return, he desired control over Youzhou's army. Hua Chunran, understanding his ambitions, publicly handed him the commander’s tally before the assembled Golden Armor Cavalry. She ordered them to obey Huang Chao, avenge the Lord of Youzhou, and defeat the Fengyun Cavalry.

She stipulated, however, that Youzhou's sovereignty must be guaranteed until he had fully conquered the world. Huang Chao, impressed by her resolve, readily agreed. Huang Chao, now leading 50,000 Golden Armor Cavalry (his Skyrider Cavalry still held back), decided to launch a preemptive strike against Feng Xiyun, who he believed was waiting for his weaknesses. The ensuing battle saw the Golden Armor Cavalry suffer immense losses against the formidable Bloody Phoenix Formation.

Feng Xiyun confronted Huang Chao, condemning his ruthlessness for sacrificing his troops to test her formation. She warned him that if he withdrew immediately, she would not pursue, but if he insisted on continuing the battle, she would fight him to the bitter end. After a moment of contemplation, Huang Chao conceded defeat for this round and ordered a retreat, vowing to return for a rematch. Qingzhou’s generals lauded Feng Xiyun’s strategic genius.

Later, an urgent report arrived: the 100,000-strong Skyrider Cavalry had breached Yancheng and was advancing directly towards Wuhui Valley. The loss of Wuhui Valley would leave Qingzhou utterly defenseless, so Feng Xiyun declared that they must defend it at all costs. Feng Lanxi revealed that his secretly trained Moyu Cavalry was ready in Liangcheng.

Feng Xiyun immediately dispatched Qi Shu to accompany Feng Lanxi to Liangcheng to retrieve the Moyu Cavalry, ordering all cities on their route to open their gates for swift passage. Feng Lanxi promised to hasten their march but cautioned that they might arrive later than the Skyrider Cavalry. Feng Xiyun pledged to wait for him and urged him not to put himself in danger.

She then gave him a Deity of Romance charm, explaining that it symbolized their unbroken bond and mutual care, ensuring their safe return to each other. Meanwhile, Yu Wuyuan, having met with the Soultaker Sect, presented Huang Chao with a method to break the Bloody Phoenix Formation. Huang Chao still harbored a lingering unease, suspecting Feng Lanxi might have a hidden contingency.

However, Yu Wuyuan dismissed his fears, pointing out that Feng Lanxi, despite his title as Heir of Yongzhou, lacked the authority to command Yongzhou’s military forces. With his Skyrider Cavalry prepared and Yu Wuyuan's formation-breaking strategy in hand, Huang Chao felt a 60% certainty of victory for the next day's battle. Huang Chao also assigned Huang Yu to protect Yu Wuyuan, ensuring his sister would not face direct combat on the battlefield.

Lin Ji reported to Feng Xiyun on the army's provisions but then, hesitantly, voiced the concerns of the Fengyun Cavalry generals. They worried about the alliance with Feng Lanxi, an Heir of Yongzhou, whose state was known for its aggressive stance. They feared that even if they won, Yongzhou might use the victory to suppress Qingzhou in the future, creating new conflicts.

Feng Xiyun responded that if the world could achieve unity and lasting peace for its people, the distinction between Qingzhou's Feng family and Yongzhou's Feng family would become irrelevant. She reiterated that Qingzhou had no ambition for global domination, seeking only to protect the peace and well-being of its own people.

In a world plagued by constant warfare and suffering, she declared that if a truly wise and benevolent ruler were to emerge, Qingzhou would willingly lay down its arms and submit to such a leader. She conveyed this sentiment to her generals, acknowledging their loyalty but sharing her broader vision for peace. The next day, Feng Xiyun led her army to confront the enemy. However, the opposing forces had indeed uncovered a method to counter the Bloody Phoenix Formation.

With Qingzhou's dwindling forces, the formation could no longer be effectively deployed. Scouts returned with no news of the Moyu Cavalry, suggesting that reinforcements might not arrive in time. Despite calls to retreat, Feng Xiyun, holding firm to her trust in Feng Lanxi and refusing to abandon Wuhui Valley, drew her sword. She rallied her remaining troops, ordering them to charge and promising to hold their ground until reinforcements arrived. Unbeknownst to them, Feng Lanxi and the Moyu Cavalry were indeed rushing towards the battlefield, while Feng Xiyun was already exhausted and encircled by the enemy.

Episode 38 Recap

Bai Fengxi bravely fought against the Youzhou army for an entire day and night in the Wuhui Valley. Just as her forces dwindled and exhaustion set in, Feng Lanxi arrived with his elite Moyu Cavalry. Witnessing the sudden shift in momentum and the weariness of his own troops, Yu Wuyuan advised Huang Chao that their remaining soldiers stood no chance against the fresh Moyu Cavalry and suggested a strategic retreat to plan their next move.

Huang Chao, heeding the advice, ordered his army to withdraw. Upon seeing Bai Fengxi’s injuries, Feng Lanxi declared he would make them pay the price and charged towards Huang Chao and Yu Wuyuan, ordering his aides, Chuanyun and Chuanyu, to protect Bai Fengxi. During his confrontation with Yu Wuyuan, Feng Lanxi was astonished to find Yu Wuyuan also possessed the Lan Yin Bi Yue technique. Yu Wuyuan, realizing he was outmatched, quickly retreated.

Huang Chao was greatly surprised, acknowledging that he had underestimated Feng Lanxi, particularly how he had managed to raise such a powerful and covert force so swiftly. Later, discussing their strategy, Yu Wuyuan explained to Huang Chao that with Qingzhou and Yongzhou now forming a pincer attack, their position was disadvantageous. He firmly stated that Wuhui Valley was not the place for a decisive battle, especially with news arriving that Shangzhou had captured four cities in Qiyun.

He warned that a prolonged battle would severely deplete their vitality, leaving them vulnerable to the Lords of Shangzhou and Beizhou, who would seize the opportunity to strengthen their positions by conquering Qiyun. Yu Wuyuan argued that even a victory in Wuhui Valley wouldn't guarantee control over Qingzhou and Yongzhou, making a temporary truce the most prudent course of action. Huang Chao agreed with his assessment. Meanwhile, Feng Lanxi questioned Bai Fengxi why she hadn't retreated when outnumbered.

Bai Fengxi explained that a retreat would have severely damaged morale and made a counter-attack difficult due to their unfavorable geographical position, adding that she had trusted Feng Lanxi would arrive in time. Feng Lanxi then revealed Yu Wuyuan's use of Lan Yin Bi Yue, which led Bai Fengxi to suspect that Yu Wuyuan was behind the unrest in Yongzhou and the Soultaker Sect, and had been the one who attacked Feng Lanxi in the alley.

She noted the many secrets surrounding the Empyrean Yu family, including the jade pendant and Lan Yin Bi Yue. Feng Lanxi believed Huang Chao was unaware of Yu Wuyuan's true identity, concluding that Yu Wuyuan had been manipulating everyone. He also mentioned that Shangzhou had captured four cities in Qiyun, and the Lord of Beizhou was moving south, implying Huang Chao would likely seek a truce rather than continue fighting Qingzhou.

Soon after, a messenger arrived with a truce proposal from the Lord of Youzhou. Bai Fengxi observed that the proposal, coming amidst widespread opportunistic attacks from other states, was likely a temporary measure to buy time. She voiced her deep concern about Yu Wuyuan, whose public image of benevolence starkly contrasted with his secret schemes, fearing his ability to sway the course of the war.

Feng Lanxi, acknowledging the lingering mysteries of the Empyrean Yu family and the many uncertainties ahead, reassured her that he would always be by her side. He then decided it was time to return to Yongzhou to formally propose their marriage to his father. Bai Fengxi playfully questioned his certainty, to which Feng Lanxi responded that her own trust had given him confidence.

He promised that upon her arrival in Yongzhou, she would be greeted by a "ten li of floral sea." Upon his return to Yongzhou, Feng Lanxi informed his father of his intention to marry Bai Fengxi, who was also the Queen of Qingzhou, Feng Xiyun. The Lord of Yongzhou was quite surprised to learn that the renowned Bai Fengxi was the Qingzhou Princess.

He gave his approval for the alliance but raised concerns about the protocols of such a royal marriage, particularly regarding status. Feng Lanxi clarified that while the alliance was for national strategy, their marriage was a matter of love. The Lord of Yongzhou, however, worried that Feng Lanxi, as a mere Heir, would not be a suitable match for a Queen and that such a pairing would bring dishonor to Yongzhou.

Feng Lanxi insisted that neither he nor Bai Fengxi were concerned with social status. To ensure the marriage was truly a suitable match, the Lord of Yongzhou declared that Feng Lanxi's wedding day would simultaneously mark his own abdication and Feng Lanxi's ascension as the new Lord of Yongzhou.

He expressed that it was time for him to retire, having seen Feng Lanxi's talent, the strength of the Moyu Cavalry, and his growing political support, concluding that the world truly belongs to the young. Feng Lanxi thanked his father, pledging to make Yongzhou prosperous. The old king, reflecting on the loneliness of the throne, felt a sense of relief after making his decision.

One year later, in the Qingzhou ancestral temple, Bai Fengxi spoke to the memorial tablets of her parents, updating them on the past year's events. She proudly reported that Qingzhou, despite battle losses, had not surrendered any land, and Licheng was being rebuilt. She expressed confidence that she had not disappointed them and then announced her impending marriage to a loving man who cherished her above all else.

Shortly after, Feng Qiwu arrived as Yongzhou's envoy to formally propose marriage between Feng Lanxi and Bai Fengxi. Qingzhou ministers immediately objected, arguing that Feng Lanxi, as only an Heir, was not worthy of their Queen. Bai Fengxi, who had prepared for such a diplomatic maneuver, smiled subtly, recalling her instructions for her story with Feng Lanxi to be widely circulated and for her ministers to be briefed.

Feng Qiwu then relayed the Lord of Yongzhou's promise to abdicate and enthrone Feng Lanxi upon the marriage. While this appeased some ministers, others demanded further assurances. Feng Qiwu then conveyed Feng Lanxi's commitment to eternal friendship between Qingzhou and Yongzhou and a willingness to share governance, establishing both the Lord of Yongzhou and the Queen of Qingzhou as "two rulers" with equal authority over both regions.

She also presented a lavish array of betrothal gifts being inventoried by the Court of State Ceremonial. Satisfied by these terms, Bai Fengxi accepted the proposal, proclaiming it a blessing to their subjects, and announced the alliance to the world. The grand wedding ceremony soon took place in the Yongzhou royal palace. As promised, Feng Lanxi had adorned the city with a "ten li of floral sea" to welcome Bai Fengxi.

Feng Lanxi gently led Bai Fengxi, dressed in her exquisite wedding gown, into the main hall. Before the Lord of Yongzhou and numerous officials, they performed the traditional rituals: bowing to Heaven and Earth, to their parents, and to each other. Following the ceremony, the Lord of Yongzhou gifted them a pair of "twin pearls," symbolizing their union and wishing them mutual support, enduring love, and a long life together, as well as a lasting friendship between Yongzhou and Qingzhou.

He then formally announced his abdication, transferring the title of Lord of Yongzhou to Feng Lanxi, and urged him to ensure the continued prosperity of Yongzhou. That night, in the bridal chamber, Feng Lanxi poured two cups of Lanruo liquor. After they drank in the traditional crossed-arm fashion, Feng Lanxi gazed at Bai Fengxi and declared his wish to be "drunk together" with her for the rest of their lives.

Bai Fengxi, her eyes filled with emotion, responded poetically that if his heart was like hers, her love would not be in vain. They shared an intimate moment. Five years later, the continent remained ravaged by war, and its people suffered greatly. Emperor Jing Yan, after much contemplation, declared his intention to remain in the Imperial City with the Empyrean Token, awaiting a truly wise ruler. Feng Lanxi and Bai Fengxi discussed the current geopolitical landscape.

Northzhou had surrendered, effectively dividing the world into two major powers: Yongzhou and Jizhou, creating a fragile peace. Bai Fengxi noted Jing Yan's summons, correctly surmising that Feng Lanxi's next move would be to lead his army into the imperial domain. She recounted how Jizhou had surrounded Shangzhou's capital days prior, resulting in the Lord of Shangzhou surrendering the Xuanshu Token to Huang Chao, and concluded that Huang Chao would likely also head to the Imperial City soon.

Feng Lanxi confirmed that a confrontation with Huang Chao was inevitable. He suspected Jing Yan’s strategy was to prolong his rule by allowing Yongzhou and Jizhou to weaken each other. However, Feng Lanxi saw this as an opportunity to secure the abdication edict, believing that only by claiming the throne legitimately could he truly unite the world, reduce conflict, and establish a rightful succession.

He acknowledged Huang Chao as a powerful and wise adversary, who, despite his ambition, was respected by his people for conquering Shangzhou without harming innocents. Feng Lanxi defined his struggle with Huang Chao as a "battle of kingcraft," with the ultimate goal of prioritizing the safety of the people. His foremost concern remained Yu Wuyuan, who had vanished after the battle in Wuhui Valley.

While the public believed Yu Wuyuan had retired to avoid further bloodshed, Feng Lanxi was certain he had another agenda and expected him to reemerge as the war approached its conclusion. Meanwhile, Han Pu, now a supervisor of the Fengyun Cavalry and known as General Han, visited Feng Lanxi and Bai Fengxi to deliver military dispatches. He expressed a sense of being outpaced by Feng Lanxi's intelligence network.

Feng Lanxi reassured him, stating that Yongzhou and Qingzhou were now one family and there was no need for rivalry, acknowledging Han Pu’s new rank. Bai Fengxi, however, hoped that Han Pu would never have to see real battle. Feng Lanxi then invited Han Pu to the training ground to boost morale as the final battle loomed. In Jizhou, Huang Chao received the military report about Northzhou's surrender, recognizing Feng Lanxi's impending move toward the Imperial City.

He understood that whoever obtained the abdication edict first would gain popular legitimacy. He immediately ordered his forces to integrate and mobilize, aiming to reach the Imperial City before Feng Lanxi. He emphasized the importance of high morale, strict military discipline, and ensuring soldiers received their full pay, vowing to severely punish anyone caught embezzling. He declared that his army fought for the world and would not hurt the innocent.

Shortly after, his wife and sister, Princess Huang Yu, requested an audience. His wife offered him nourishing soup, expressing concern for his health. Princess Huang Yu, however, was preoccupied with Yu Wuyuan's disappearance. She explained that she planned to visit Qionglin Park in the Imperial City during the upcoming Qingming festival, hoping to find him there, believing he might be avoiding witnessing more bloodshed. Huang Chao reluctantly granted her permission, cautioning her to be careful.

He also asked her to convey a message to Yu Wuyuan: that he had never forgotten his promise to him. In the Imperial City, Emperor Jing Yan was engrossed in painting, admiring his own imitation of the "Moonlit Flower" by the Gentry of Moonlight, yet admitting he could not match the original. General Dong Shufang urged Jing Yan to prioritize national affairs, highlighting the perilous situation with Jizhou controlling Youzhou and Shangzhou, and Yongzhou controlling Qingzhou and Beizhou.

Jing Yan deflected, suggesting Dong Shufang discuss military matters with Yu Wuyuan. Dong Shufang openly criticized Yu Wuyuan's strategy, which, he claimed, was designed to make Yongzhou and Jizhou fight each other while the Imperial court reaps the benefit. He voiced his frustration at Yu Wuyuan's repeated refusal to dispatch Imperial troops, implying Yu Wuyuan had ulterior motives, especially given the Imperial City's comparatively small army.

Yu Wuyuan then arrived and calmly explained that his strategy of waiting was because the timing was not right, reiterating his belief that the two rival powers would weaken each other, creating the best timing for the Imperial court to step in. Jing Yan, declaring himself tired, left the two men to continue their discussion. Yu Wuyuan then dismissed the General.

Episode 39 Recap

Emperor Jing Yan, neglecting state affairs as Jizhou and Yongzhou expanded their territories, instructed General Dong Shufang to consult with Yu Wuyuan. To gain Dong Shufang's trust, Yu Wuyuan revealed his secretly trained Divine Forces. He explained that if Dong Shufang had independently launched troops, his chances of victory, once thirty percent, were now less than ten. However, Yu Wuyuan asserted he had a complete plan.

He showcased his elite Divine Forces, whose weaponry was from the Tie family and whose formations utilized the Xuanyuan family's Iron Gyro Formation. Dong Shufang, initially skeptical, was deeply impressed and asked about their numbers. Yu Wuyuan proudly stated he commanded a hundred thousand such soldiers, boasting a hundred percent chance of victory with his strategy. Convinced, Dong Shufang apologized for his previous suspicions, and Yu Wuyuan accepted, affirming their joint commitment as strategist and general to ensure Dadong's triumph.

Yu Wuyuan, having already resolved the Blood Curse with the Empyrean Token, revealed his elaborate scheme to a subordinate. He planned for the Yongzhou and Jizhou armies to converge on the Realm of the Kings, anticipating they would fiercely battle each other before reaching the Imperial City. He expected a "tough win" for either side, leaving him poised to be the ultimate victor. Yu Wuyuan further hinted at a "good show" he had prepared for Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi.

He acknowledged that his ally Huang Chao valued trust above all, noting that if Huang Chao discovered his true intentions, he would be unforgivable and pose "endless trouble." Unbeknownst to them, Huang Yu was secretly listening outside. When she inadvertently made a sound, she was discovered and immediately eliminated on Yu Wuyuan's orders by the Soultaker Sect.

In Yongzhou's court, Hei Fengxi's strategists perceived Emperor Jing Yan's edict to recruit sages as a desperate attempt to incite conflict between Yongzhou and Jizhou. Hei Fengxi declared his intention to enter the Realm of the Kings, and his officials pledged their support. Ren Rusong cautioned against underestimating General Dong Shufang's formidable military acumen, though another minister noted the Imperial Family's limited troop strength of only 100,000 men.

Bai Fengxi, however, voiced her primary concern was not Dong Shufang, but the elusive Yu Wuyuan, whose deep-seated machinations made him a perilous unknown. Hei Fengxi concurred, recognizing the inevitability of the conflict despite their wariness. Hei Fengxi then unveiled his comprehensive strategy: Ren Rusong's brothers, Chuanyun and Chuanyu, would lead 100,000 Moyu Cavalry through Beizhou to pressure Jiaocheng and advance directly on the Realm of the Kings.

Hei Fengxi, along with Ren Rusong, would lead the remaining forces through the Yongzhou-Shangzhou border, establishing a pincer movement against Huang Chao. Meanwhile, Bai Fengxi would lead the Fengyun Cavalry to conquer Juancheng. Her mission was to advance to the Realm of the Kings after Hei Fengxi engaged Huang Chao, where they would reunite in the Imperial City. Meanwhile, Huang Chao, anticipating Hei Fengxi's deployments, assembled his own forces.

Recognizing that Jizhou's proximity to the Realm of the Kings offered an advantage, he resolved to personally lead his army. He predicted Hei Fengxi would attempt to intercept them at Dongdan, identifying it as the pivotal engagement for control of the realm. Huang Chao commanded Xuekong to bypass Fucheng and swiftly reach Dongdan. He also dispatched Qiu Jiushuang to Jiaocheng with instructions to establish an ambush to delay the Yongzhou forces.

Concerned about Huang Yu, who had not returned, he postponed searching for her until after his entry into the Realm of the Kings, expressing unwavering confidence in his impending victory. As Hei Fengxi's forces advanced, scouts reported the city ahead was completely deserted, devoid of even civilians. His advisors suggested Emperor Jing Yan was recalling his limited forces to the capital for a last stand. However, Hei Fengxi suspected this was not Jing Yan's doing, but Yu Wuyuan's.

He speculated that Yu Wuyuan, who had been missing, had likely gone to the Imperial City to manipulate Jing Yan and assume control. Bai Fengxi, upon receiving a request for provisions from Hei Fengxi's forces facing supply delays, immediately dispatched Qi Shu with half of Juancheng's provisions and 3,000 men, and sent Xu Yuan with 5,000 men to clear muddy roads at Mount Pa.

Soon after, intelligence revealed that General Dong Shufang, rather than defending the Realm of the Kings, was advancing towards Juancheng. Intrigued by the challenge of facing the legendary veteran, Bai Fengxi refused to recall her generals. Despite warnings about Juancheng's weak defenses and dwindling 20-day supply of provisions, she was resolute, declaring they would "welcome him from afar" instead of defending the city.

She instructed Lin Ji to immediately inform Hei Fengxi to engage Huang Chao in battle, stressing that the Moyu Cavalry's actions were crucial. General Dong Shufang, leading his Divine Forces towards Juancheng, noted their extraordinary efficiency, recognizing them as a "killing knife" while musing on their ultimate master. He ensured his vanguard, led by General Luo Lun, was advancing towards Mount Luoying. However, Bai Fengxi preemptively struck, annihilating Luo Lun's 10,000-strong vanguard, with only a thousand managing to escape.

Unwilling to subject Juancheng's people to a destructive siege, Bai Fengxi relocated the decisive battle to Xiyuan. Upon arriving outside Juancheng and seeing the scattered corpses of his vanguard, a grim Dong Shufang immediately redirected his forces to Xiyuan. On another front, Ren Rusong's brothers arrived with their forces three days ahead of schedule, joined by Xu Yuan and Qi Shu who had delivered provisions.

Hei Fengxi, relieved and bolstered by the news that Bai Fengxi had engaged and wiped out Dong Shufang's vanguard, understood her warning about potential ambushes in the Realm of the Kings. He immediately ordered his army to "march into Dongdan tomorrow" to alleviate the pressure on Juancheng. The next day, Hei Fengxi and Huang Chao met on the battlefield at Dongdan. Their armies executed intricate maneuvers, recalling their previous strategic duel.

After a protracted engagement, neither side gained a decisive advantage. Recognizing the stalemate, both Hei Fengxi, acknowledging Huang Chao's tactical prowess, and Huang Chao, calling Hei Fengxi "astute," agreed to withdraw and resume battle the following day. During a rest period at Bai Fengxi's camp, Han Pu reported devastating losses from their battle with the Divine Forces: their 30,000 Fengyun Cavalry had been decimated to only 5,000, while their 20,000 enemies suffered only half that number in casualties.

Han Pu noted the enemy's unusual weapons, skilled formations, and, most alarmingly, their ability to recover quickly from injuries, as if they had consumed his Han family's secret medicine. Bai Fengxi immediately concluded that Yu Wuyuan was behind it all, revealing that he had used the Soultaker Sect to acquire the finest military resources—Xuanyuan family's armor, Ma family's horses, Tie family's weapons, and Han family's medicine—to equip his forces.

Han Pu, realizing Yu Wuyuan was responsible for his family's destruction, vowed revenge. Reflecting on the prolonged conflict, Bai Fengxi yearned for peace, while Han Pu expressed his desire to open a medical center after the war. A distraught Lin Ji reached Hei Fengxi, relaying that Bai Fengxi's 30,000 Fengyun Cavalry had been ambushed at Mount Luoying, suffering nearly fifty percent casualties against a formidable enemy that was not the Imperial Army.

Bai Fengxi, fighting for her life, had ordered him to seek aid. Alarmed, Hei Fengxi re-evaluated his priorities, declaring that while his rivalry with Huang Chao was a power struggle, protecting his people, especially Bai Fengxi, was paramount. He immediately redirected 100,000 troops towards Mount Luoying. Concurrently, Ren Rusong dispatched Zhong Li to Huang Chao, conveying Hei Fengxi's offer to retreat from Dongdan as a sign of sincerity and appealing for a temporary alliance against their common foe.

Huang Chao, upon receiving the surprising offer and confirming Yongzhou's retreat, saw an opportunity despite his general's concerns about the mysterious enemy force. He rapidly mobilized his army to march directly on the Imperial City. Meanwhile, Yu Wuyuan, aware of both Hei Fengxi's diversion and Huang Chao's advance, revealed his chilling endgame.

With fewer than 10,000 imperial soldiers, he planned to use the Imperial City's 100,000 civilians as leverage, training adult males into divine soldiers while reserving the old and infirm for "other uses" to control Huang Chao. He declared that "the game is coming to a close," intending to eliminate Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi and claim the world. Yu Wuyuan then confronted Emperor Jing Yan.

He baldly stated his goal was to own the world and chillingly corrected the Emperor's understanding of their plan: "You don't own this world. It belongs to me." He unveiled his sinister plot: Bai Fengxi would perish at Mount Luoying, Hei Fengxi in Liefeng Valley, and Huang Chao at the Imperial City's gates, paving his way to the throne.

A horrified Jing Yan invoked the Empyrean Yu family's duty, but Yu Wuyuan scoffed, stating their true duty was to aid whoever could pacify the world—which he now could. When Jing Yan mentioned the Empyrean Token, Yu Wuyuan revealed he already possessed it and had lifted the Blood Curse. The Emperor, finally grasping the horrifying truth, accused Yu Wuyuan of murdering his father, the previous Emperor, and in that moment understood that Yu Wuyuan was the fabled "100-year lineage."

Back at Mount Luoying, Bai Fengxi's forces had run out of provisions as expected reinforcements were delayed. Han Pu presented her with a potent, quick-acting poison to apply to their weapons. A sudden realization struck Bai Fengxi when she noticed half of the enemy's campfires had vanished. Dismissing the idea of a deceptive maneuver, she deduced they were merely "bait."

Dong Shufang had intercepted their reinforcements to lure Hei Fengxi into a trap orchestrated by Yu Wuyuan, who knew Hei Fengxi would come to her aid. Recognizing Hei Fengxi's imminent danger, Bai Fengxi immediately ordered her remaining troops to break out under the cover of night. Meanwhile, Hei Fengxi, rushing to Mount Luoying, encountered a fierce ambush that significantly delayed him.

From a distance, General Dong Shufang observed the battle, expressing profound admiration for the Fengyun Cavalry's unwavering loyalty as they valiantly protected their Queen. As the battle raged and a volley of arrows rained down, Han Pu selflessly threw himself in front of Bai Fengxi. With a final cry of "Martial Sister!" Han Pu succumbed to his wounds, sacrificing his life to save her. Heartbroken, Bai Fengxi rallied her forces to fight their way down the mountain, realizing Dong Shufang's trap was complete.

Episode 40 (Ending) Recap

As Bai Fengxi and her troops found themselves surrounded, facing a desperate battle for survival, Hei Fengxi arrived in the nick of time with his forces. Though the fierce enemy was driven back, the Fengyun Cavalry suffered devastating casualties. Han Pu, struck by an arrow while shielding Bai Fengxi, succumbed to his wounds.

A heartbroken Bai Fengxi personally erected a tomb for him, lamenting that she had inadvertently drawn him into a perilous battlefield where moments were fleeting, ultimately costing him his life. Despite the profound loss, Bai Fengxi composed herself, understanding that the living must carry on. She solemnly declared that Luoying Mountain, where so many heroes fell, would henceforth be known as Mount Ying.

She instructed her soldiers to remember this day and to prioritize retreat when facing insurmountable odds, to protect themselves for future battles. News then arrived that Dong Shufang's army was less than three li away. Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi, united in their grief and resolve, led their combined forces to engage the enemy, vowing to avenge their fallen comrades. Bai Fengxi personally confronted General Dong Shufang.

After a few exchanges, he revealed that Yu Wuyuan had prepared powerful artillery for them, intending to bury thousands of their men. Undeterred, Bai Fengxi decisively struck him down, avenging Han Pu. However, the relentless cannon fire continued, causing heavy losses among her troops. Without hesitation, Bai Fengxi disregarded Hei Fengxi's protests and flew towards a cannon, bravely jamming her long sword into its barrel.

The cannon exploded, severely injuring Bai Fengxi, who collapsed into Hei Fengxi's arms, on the verge of death. Hei Fengxi immediately dispatched his subordinates to the Imperial City, instructing them to thwart Yu Wuyuan's conspiracy and to assist Huang Chao if he faced difficulties. Meanwhile, he carried the gravely wounded Bai Fengxi to seek out Old Tianji. Huang Chao's army reached the outskirts of the Imperial City.

Seeing a familiar aide of Yu Wuyuan on the city walls, Huang Chao finally realized that Yu Wuyuan was the true mastermind behind the chaos. He was horrified to discover Yu Wuyuan's cruel scheme: holding the city's innocent citizens hostage. Huang Chao had trusted Yu Wuyuan, who had always claimed to prioritize the welfare of the people, but now saw his words as nothing but despicable lies. To protect the innocent, Huang Chao reluctantly ordered his army to retreat.

Meanwhile, Hei Fengxi desperately pleaded with Old Tianji to save Bai Fengxi. Old Tianji revealed that only the Life Transference technique of Tianshan the Snow could save her, but it would cost Hei Fengxi ten years of his own life. Without hesitation, Hei Fengxi declared his willingness to sacrifice himself for his beloved. He explained that before meeting her, his ambition to be a ruler was his only purpose, but she had shown him the true meaning of life.

Even ten years with her was more than he could have hoped for. He was willing to sacrifice everything, even his remaining lifespan, for her, for he knew that without her, even eternal life would be an empty existence. Upon waking, Bai Fengxi found herself in a secluded dwelling. She searched for Hei Fengxi and discovered him, his hair now completely white. Overcome with sorrow, she understood the immense sacrifice he had made using the Life Transference technique.

Though heartbroken, she chastised him for his foolishness but ultimately accepted their new reality, embracing the ten years they had left to enjoy the changing seasons together. News arrived from Fountain Abode that Huang Chao's three attempts to storm the Imperial City had failed, resulting in a loss of 100,000 Jizhou soldiers.

Yu Wuyuan continued to use the citizens as human shields, and even the armies that had been pursuing Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi had returned to the capital, further crushing Huang Chao's forces. Yu Wuyuan remained in control of the Imperial City. As Hei Fengxi pondered how to counter Yu Wuyuan's scheme, Old Tianji appeared, ready to unveil the long-kept secrets of the Yu family.

Old Tianji recounted that while the world knew the Six Lords and Emperor Weilie founded the Dadong Empire, few knew of Yu Yantian, the Empyrean Yu, who was their true mentor. Without him, the Dadong Empire would not exist. Emperor Weilie had promised to share power with the Yu family, but after ascending the throne, he feared Yu Yantian's power and ruthlessly ordered the entire Yu family exterminated, sparing no one.

However, fate intervened, and Yu Yantian's youngest son miraculously escaped, ensuring the continuation of the Yu bloodline, albeit under a curse that prevented any male descendant from living past thirty. Bai Fengxi acknowledged Emperor Weilie's cruelty, believing Dadong's current predicament was a just retribution for his actions. Yet, she vehemently condemned Yu Wuyuan for sacrificing countless innocent lives and plunging the world into chaos for his personal vendetta.

Old Tianji then reminded them that Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi had both inherited the Sacred Jade Moon from Taiyin, a rare fortune. Taiyin himself, having lost his wife in his prime, could never reach the highest realm of the technique. Old Tianji expressed his fervent hope that Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi, with their deeply connected hearts, could achieve its ultimate potential.

With Ren Rulong and Chuanyun General leading their forces to breach the Imperial City, and Qiu Jiushuang and Xue Kong’s Skyrider Cavalry joining the Yongzhou allied forces to encircle the Imperial Palace, Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi bid farewell to Old Tianji. They joined Huang Chao and stormed into the Imperial Palace. As expected, Yu Wuyuan awaited them in the main hall. When confronted and reprimanded by Huang Chao and the others, Yu Wuyuan showed no remorse.

Instead, he openly mocked Hei Fengxi for sharing his fate of a shortened life, admitting he killed Bai Jian for knowing too much, and confirmed that Huang Yu was dead. He proudly declared that Dadong was broken and ripe for a new master, dismissing Bai Fengxi and Huang Chao as mere pawns in his grand scheme.

He revealed that he had deliberately approached the Dadong Imperial Family to break his family's blood curse and had used fake Empyrean Tokens to ignite conflicts, effectively killing two birds with one stone. Yu Wuyuan then launched a powerful attack, severely injuring Huang Chao. Remembering Old Tianji's words about the Sacred Jade Moon, Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi, their hearts and minds perfectly aligned, combined their powers. Together, they launched a decisive strike, ending Yu Wuyuan's life.

Upon witnessing the resolution, Emperor Jing Yan understood the changing tides. He gracefully abdicated his throne, personally handing the Dethronement Order to Hei Fengxi. With order restored, Huang Chao willingly accepted Hei Fengxi as the new Emperor, praising his character and vision for the world. He acknowledged that his lifelong ambition had led to much suffering and expressed his trust that Hei Fengxi would bring lasting peace to the realm.

Hei Fengxi, after an understanding glance with Bai Fengxi, then presented the Dethronement Order to Huang Chao, urging him to rule justly and care for the people as he had promised. Hei Fengxi explained that his remaining time was limited, and he wished to dedicate it entirely to Bai Fengxi. Huang Chao, deeply moved, vowed to rule wisely and bring an era of peace, honoring the trust placed in him.

In a poignant declaration to the assembled troops, Bai Fengxi announced that she was no longer the Queen of Qingzhou but Bai Fengxi, a martial arts heroine who had "kidnapped" Feng Lanxi, the Lord of Yongzhou, to be her husband. She playfully warned any potential rivals that they would be "greeted by my blade."

Following her lead, Hei Fengxi entrusted the command of his armies to Feng Qiwu and General Xu Yuan, then, with Bai Fengxi by his side, he took flight, disappearing into the distant mountains. From that day forward, the armies of Yong and Qing united under the command of Lord of Jizhou, Huang Chao, to secure peace across the land. In April of the same year, Huang Chao ascended to the imperial throne, naming his empire Huang and his era Xize.

He crowned Hua Chunran as his Empress. Far away, in a secluded valley, Hei Fengxi and Bai Fengxi lived an idyllic life as a loving couple, enjoying simple domestic pleasures, cooking together, and sharing tender moments, just as they had always dreamed.