Miao Ansu’s Discovery
Miao Ansu learns that An Ping, who sought Song Han’s help after being beaten by Dong Qi, was instead killed by Song Han. A passing coachman witnessed the murder and fled, catching Song Han’s attention.
Back at home, Miao Ansu is startled when Song Han suddenly embraces her and gifts her a necklace, celebrating her first birthday since their marriage. Though moved by his gesture, Miao Ansu questions Song Han’s honesty. He admits to making mistakes, and when asked if he would change for her, he agrees. Miao Ansu holds him tightly but later stares at the necklace, lost in thought.
The Emperor’s Weakening Grip
The Emperor awakens, and the Empress offers him medicine she claims was recommended by a Taoist practitioner. Skeptical, the Emperor recalls that his advisor, Lu Yuanpan, had warned against trusting such remedies. Realizing the Empress has taken control of court affairs, he reminisces about their youth when she supported him tirelessly. He encourages her to share her grievances, but the Empress hides her bitterness, recalling his decree to have her buried with him after his death to prevent chaos, which sowed her desire for rebellion.
The Crown Prince and Elder Liang interrupt to propose that the Emperor skip a royal ancestor worship ceremony due to his health, suggesting the Crown Prince act in his place. The Emperor reluctantly agrees, assigning Gu Yu to accompany the Crown Prince. Privately, the Emperor promises Gu Yu that if the mission succeeds, Song Mo’s life will be spared, granting Gu Yu any reward she desires.
After Gu Yu departs, the Empress smashes a cup in frustration, blaming the Emperor for forcing her to this point.
Prince Qing and Song Han’s Rebellion Plan
Prince Qing tasks Song Han with leading a coup. Song Han demands assurances, insisting on becoming the first non-royal prince if they succeed. When Prince Qing orders him to kill Miao Ansu, Song Han refuses, citing the importance of her family’s wealth to their plan. The two agree to launch the coup on the 15th.
Song Han, pretending to care, helps Miao Ansu dress and supports her decision to take An Ping’s ashes to her parents. He secretly hopes she will be out of harm’s way during the rebellion.
Song Mo’s Struggles
Song Mo isolates himself, refusing visitors. Dou Zhao visits him and finds him bound, insisting she leave so as not to tarnish her impression of him. She refuses, unbothered by his disheveled appearance, but Song Mo coughs up blood and, in a moment of despair, nearly harms her. Regaining control, he flees, but Dou Zhao chases him, administering medicine mouth-to-mouth.
Court Intrigue and a Deadly Banquet
The Empress hosts a banquet, inviting influential women, including Dou Zhao, who brings unique Western gifts. Dou Zhao is mocked for her decline in status but cleverly deflects the insults. The Empress praises her gifts but subtly hints at the night’s sinister purpose.
Outside the palace, Song Han opens the gates to Prince Qing, planning to seize power before dawn. Inside, the Empress gives a veiled toast about a new beginning, and guards storm in, detaining the women. Dou Zhao, calm and composed, watches the clock she gifted the Empress, signaling her anticipation of the events.
The Empress’s intent to use the women as hostages becomes clear, but Dou Zhao boldly states the Empress won’t harm them, angering her further. Suddenly, an explosion interrupts the scene. Su Yan appears, holding the Empress hostage. In the chaos, Wang Ge injures Su Yan, who sacrifices himself to protect Dou Zhao.
Turning the Tide
Chen Jia turns against Wang Ge, inspiring the guards to rebel against their corrupt superiors. Dou Zhao orders Chen Jia to secure the gates and prevent Prince Qing’s forces from advancing.
Song Mo’s Arrival
Song Mo, leading the Dingguo Army, intercepts Prince Qing and Song Han. Meanwhile, Miao Ansu, pretending to travel to her family, delivers Dou Zhao’s message to the Dingguo Army, ensuring their timely support.
The episode concludes with a brewing clash between the rebellion and loyal forces, as alliances shift and tensions reach their peak.
