Dou Zhao and Song Mo coincidentally attend the same theater performance, sitting only separated by a screen. Both share their interpretations of the play, eventually removing the screen to test whose perspective is deeper. They discover the play isn’t a tragedy nor a joyful ending. Song Mo, caught between emotions and logic, reveals his struggles, which Dou Zhao quickly understands. She advises him to separate public and private matters: at home, he can be a son, but outside, reason must prevail.
During the show’s riddle-solving segment, Dou Zhao impressively answers correctly multiple times. Song Mo, skeptical of her knowledge, even suspects she might be disguising as a man. Dou Zhao confidently counters, asserting women are just as capable. Despite wearing masks, the two seem to recognize each other, matching every answer. However, on the final question, Song Mo recalls memories of familial warmth he only witnesses between his parents and brother, not himself, leading to a hesitation that costs him the round.
As Song Mo leaves, Dou Zhao sends him the final prize—a lantern—and a letter, surprising him with her perceptiveness. Meanwhile, Yan Chaoqing notices a scented pouch on Song Mo’s waist, realizing it might have accidentally been taken from Dou Zhao. Determined, he plans to return it later.
Not long after, Dou Zhao is kidnapped and taken to a dilapidated temple by Pang Kunbai, who intends to harm her. However, Dou Zhao had anticipated this, turning the tables by capturing Pang and his men. Just as she prepares to hand him to the authorities, Yuan Tong intervenes, forcing Pang to flee. This puzzles Su Xin, who questions Yuan Tong’s motives.
Pang Kunbai rushes to inform Wang Yingxue, who orchestrated the plot as his aunt. Yuan Tong, leading Dou Zhao’s group to Wang Yingxue’s quarters, uncovers evidence linking her to the scheme. Dou Zhao commends Yuan Tong’s decisive action, recognizing that confronting Wang Yingxue directly prevents the powerful Wang family from evading justice.
At home, Dou Shiying scolds Wang Yingxue, who tearfully blames him for her predicament, claiming she’s been unfairly burdened since Zhao Guqiu’s death. Shiying comforts her, but Dou Ming pleads with her mother to reconcile with Dou Zhao. Wang Yingxue refuses, viewing her daughter as a failure and lamenting her lack of a male heir to secure her status. Dou Ming, distraught, begs her mother to stop fighting for her sake, but Wang Yingxue insists everything she does is for Dou Ming’s future.
Later, Dou Shiying apologizes to Dou Zhao for her suffering. She reassures him she’s grown accustomed to the challenges, leaving him feeling even guiltier.
Yuan Tong, now staying at the estate, receives a special meal prepared by Dou Zhao herself. When asked about their acquaintance, Dou Zhao recalls a monk named Ji Yong from her past life but lies, claiming they met at a temple. Yuan Tong aids in diagnosing Madam Cui, whose illness begins to improve under Dou Zhao’s persuasion. Grateful, Dou Zhao decides to learn medicine from Yuan Tong, who agrees to teach her.
Meanwhile, Song Mo, enraged by corrupt officials, seizes their wealth to distribute among the starving people. Some, fearing his methods, willingly surrender their riches. His actions draw complaints from Eunuch Ding, but Jiang Meisun takes responsibility, prioritizing the people’s survival.
Dou Zhao also arranges for dike repairs to prevent flooding. While distributing resources, Song Mo gifts a hairpin to a girl, suggesting she exchange it for food. On her way home, the girl drops the pin and is nearly run over. Song Mo rescues her but gets injured in the process. As he loses consciousness, Dou Zhao feels sudden chest pain, hinting at a mysterious connection between them.
In his coma, Song Mo dreams of a masked girl and a flower behind her ear. Upon waking, he notices the scented pouch, rumored to let one dream of loved ones. Believing Dou Zhao saved him, he grows even more intrigued by her.
While aiding refugees, Dou Zhao encounters Wu Shan, and their smiles reveal mutual understanding. That night, she dreams of Song Mo. Upon waking, Su Xin reports the arrival of strangers claiming to be merchants, raising Dou Zhao’s suspicions. She instructs Su Xin to summon Chen Qushui to discuss the matter further.
