Dou Shiying drums to appeal for justice for Song Mo but faces opposition from Dou Shishu. Despite years of being under Dou Shishu’s control and serving him, Dou Shiying decides to sever ties, unwilling to let Dou Zhao, Song Mo, or the common people be sacrificed. Dou Shiying demands Dou Shishu repay his upbringing debt by stabbing him three times, symbolically ending their brotherhood.
Meanwhile, Song Han barges into Ji Yong’s room only to find a small dog on the bed. Ji Yong mocks Song Han, comparing him to a dog who bites indiscriminately.
Song Mo’s Ordeal in Prison
Song Mo endures torture in the prison at Wang Ge’s hands. Chen Jia tries to persuade Wang Ge against using forced confessions. Wang Ge, though displeased, acknowledges Song Mo’s resilience and stops physical torture. Instead, he resorts to using a drug that causes Song Mo to experience hallucinations and inner turmoil. In his altered state, Song Mo envisions figures from his past, including Jiang Huisun and Jiang Meisun, as Wang Ge manipulates his emotions to deepen his suffering.
In a dreamlike state, Song Mo sees a beam of sunlight through the prison window and imagines Dou Zhao approaching him with a smile. However, this moment of peace dissolves into another vision of a white-haired boy and a mysterious girl. When an arrow flies toward him, Song Mo catches it and transforms it into petals, symbolizing a moment of serenity amid his pain.
Dou Zhao Awakens
Dou Zhao regains consciousness, surrounded by Zhao Zhangru and the Cui family, who comfort her. They inform her that Ji Yong brought her to safety and assure her that Song Mo and her child are unharmed. Relieved, Dou Zhao smiles at the purple flowers by the window, finding a fleeting sense of peace.
A Fight for Justice
Dou Shiying continues his drum protest for Song Mo’s innocence but is interrupted by Wang Ge. Despite having his drumstick taken away, Dou Shiying uses his fists to drum until the Crown Prince intervenes, scolding Wang Ge and hearing Dou Shiying’s plea for justice.
In court, with the Emperor gravely ill, the Empress presides. The Crown Prince criticizes Prince Qing for corruption, presenting evidence in a petition from the people. The Empress dismisses the accusation as meddling in court matters. However, Lady Shude supports the investigation, emphasizing the need to maintain the royal family’s honor. The ministers back Lady Shude, forcing the Empress to concede to an inquiry.
Political Intrigue
After court, the furious Empress discusses finding a scapegoat with Elder Mu, who suggests using Dou Shishu, as he is closely associated with Lady Shude. Dou Shishu, realizing his fate, accepts it without concern, believing the Dou family will endure, with Dou Shiying potentially becoming a key official.
Facing arrest, Dou Shishu uses Princess Dou as leverage against Wang Ge. Dou Shiying arrives to mediate but is disowned publicly by Dou Shishu, who sacrifices himself to protect Lady Shude. Before dying in her arms, Dou Shishu advises her to return to the land and enjoy the fruits of labor in his memory.
Song Mo’s Release
The Empress, under pressure, charges Song Mo with negligence and releases him from the imperial prison, confining him to Yizhi Hall under strict surveillance. Dou Zhao sees this as a form of protection and resolves to wait for better days with Song Mo, cherishing the brief calm.
A Brewing Conspiracy
Song Han advises Prince Qing to eliminate Song Mo. Ji Yong, present during the discussion, refrains from voicing his disapproval but shows disdain for Song Han. Prince Qing agrees to act but later seeks Ji Yong’s opinion. Ji Yong neither opposes nor supports Song Han, subtly distancing himself from the plot while revealing his dislike for Song Han due to his connection with Dou Zhao.
Miao Ansu’s Compassion and Conflict
Miao Ansu, appearing charitable, distributes porridge to the poor alongside Su Yan. However, her encounter with a frightened beggar stirs unease, hinting at deeper guilt.
When Miao Ansu visits Song Han, she pleads for Dou Zhao’s safety. Song Han, touched by her request, agrees to negotiate with Dou Zhao. However, Miao Ansu ultimately seeks guidance from Dou Zhao, who redirects her to Chen Jia.
A Desperate Revelation
Chen Jia captures a runaway coachman and forces him to confess. The man reveals he is being hunted by Song Han due to a connection with An Ping. The layers of deceit and conflict continue to unravel, leaving alliances and intentions uncertain.
The episode concludes with mounting tension, as each character wrestles with loyalty, survival, and their place in a tumultuous political landscape.
