Jiang Meisun is urgently summoned back to the capital by the Emperor. Song Mo, worried about his uncle’s shoulder injury, helps prepare his clothing while persistently questioning Commander Chen about the Emperor’s intentions. Chen seems uneasy, but Jiang reassures Song Mo, suggesting the summons might relate to disaster relief efforts. Before leaving the camp, Jiang firmly commands the soldiers to continue relief operations and ensure the people’s livelihood is supported no matter what.
Meanwhile, Song Mo leads his group to Dou Zhao’s estate. Chen Qushui recognizes Yan Chaoqing among them, a capable subordinate of the Duke of Dingguo. Haunted by his past allegiance to Zhang Kai, who abandoned his post during a crisis, Chen fears Yan will label him a traitor, putting Dou Zhao in danger. Dou Zhao reassures her loyal advisor, reminding him of her promise not to judge his past when she first enlisted his service.
Dou Zhao recalls a record in The Chronicle of Zhao’s World and realizes the child accompanying Yan must be the Duke of Dingguo’s son. She deduces the young leader is Song Mo himself. Fearing for everyone’s safety, Chen considers surrendering himself but is stopped by Dou Zhao.
In another room, Song Mo, holding the child, listens to Yan’s report. Convinced that those with Chen Qushui are untrustworthy, Song Mo decides to eliminate everyone to protect the child’s secret.
When Dou Zhao attempts to leave the estate, Song Mo intercepts her group. Dou Zhao claims to be a court official investigating matters related to the Duke of Dingguo, but Song Mo quickly exposes her lie, holding a sword to her throat. Despite the tension, Dou Zhao remains composed, her mind racing with memories of her past life. She even calls Song Mo by name, startling him slightly but leaving no time for further thought.
Just as Song Mo prepares to act, Dou Zhao’s maids capture the child and his nanny, forcing a standoff. Dou Zhao clarifies she has no intention of harming the child but merely seeks an opportunity for dialogue. During negotiations, Dou Zhao and Chen analyze the situation and propose strategies to rescue the Duke of Dingguo while gaining imperial favor. Song Mo, impressed by Dou Zhao’s reasoning, becomes curious about her identity.
When the child begins to cry, Dou Zhao demonstrates her knowledge by suggesting goat’s milk, which the child accepts. Her unconventional solution surprises everyone. Later, she prepares food for the group, even involving Song Mo’s subordinates, lightening the tense atmosphere.
Song Mo questions Dou Zhao’s motives, warning her of the dangers of involving herself in such matters. Dou Zhao cryptically mentions protecting a life, her thoughts lingering on Song Mo’s tragic fate in her past life. Just then, Master Tan arrives with his people, expressing gratitude to the Duke’s household and vouching for Dou Zhao. This ensures the estate’s safety, earning Song Mo’s trust.
The next morning, Dou Zhao observes Song Mo interacting warmly with a little girl, a stark contrast to his cold demeanor the previous night. Their eyes meet, and both are reminded of their tense negotiation. Song Mo decides to take Chen Qushui as a hostage for leverage, while Dou Zhao insists on Yan Chaoqing staying behind as a guest. Reluctantly, both sides agree to the exchange.
After leaving, Song Mo investigates Dou Zhao and learns of her estranged relationship with her family. Despite rumors of her abandonment, her entourage of skilled attendants casts doubt on such claims. Song Mo sees her as far from an ordinary woman.
Back at the estate, Dou Zhao finally relaxes after the stressful encounter, drinking several glasses of water to calm her nerves. She reflects on Song Mo’s piercing gaze, which unsettled her deeply.
Elsewhere, Cui Shi’s efforts in aiding disaster victims earn commendation. Dou Shiying petitions for her recognition, bringing joy to Cui Shi. Dou Zhao observes this and smiles, pleased by the harmony.
Meanwhile, Wang Yingxue brings desserts to Dou Shiying, hoping for his opinion on Dou Ming’s calligraphy. Dou Shiying dismisses the need for results, prioritizing happiness over achievements. However, Wang secretly feels his favoritism toward Dou Zhao, though she outwardly praises his decision to invite Cui Shi to live with them after receiving recognition.
With Dou Zhao’s suggestion, Song Mo maneuvers court politics to divide opinions about Jiang Meisun, making conflicting accusations that ultimately convince the Emperor of Jiang’s integrity, ensuring his release. However, Dou Wushu, unaware of the plan, clashes with Elder Wu in court, accusing Jiang of hoarding power. Though he later apologizes, Elder Wu sends him home on leave. Outside the court, Song Mo meets Elder Wu, crossing paths with Dou Wushu without a word.
