Family Tensions in the Jun Household
In the Jun family, the second branch secretly schemes to take over the family business. Confident that Jun Feifan’s absence guarantees their success, the second branch son boasts that his plan will ensure the elder Jun’s attendance at the upcoming gathering, further solidifying their control. The family head, however, remains skeptical.
Meanwhile, Jun Jiangjuan attempts to sneak out but is caught by her father, who sternly forbids her from venturing into the perilous “No-Man’s Land.” He reassures her that the prime minister has promised to assist in locating Jun Qiluo and has already dispatched bodyguards. Frustrated, Jiangjuan protests that if Qiluo can go, so can she. Her father counters that Qiluo is an experienced trader, while Jiangjuan has never traveled far.
A New Proposal
Jun Qiluo shares her intention to proceed to Xixiang, explaining her plan to purchase fragrant stones there. Xuan Lie suggests sourcing the stones in Beixuan instead, promising to secure the same discounted price offered in Xixiang through his connections. Weighing the pros and cons, Qiluo agrees to the plan.
To seal their agreement, Xuan Lie takes Qiluo’s necklace as a token. Qiluo, hesitant at first, requests a reciprocal gesture. She takes Xuan Lie’s treasured dagger, a keepsake from his late father. Though reluctant, Xuan Lie understands the symbolic exchange and agrees.
Reverence and Alliances in Liangzhou
Upon arriving in Liangzhou, Xuan Lie prioritizes visiting the grave of Luo Zhizhou’s mother. As a concubine of humble origin, she was excluded from the Luo family’s ancestral shrine. Luo Zhizhou deeply honors her memory, secretly burying her in Liangzhou. Xuan Lie silently thanks her for the providence that allowed Luo Zhizhou to save him in his time of need.
Xuan Lie also seeks to gain the support of the Sun clan in Liangzhou. Lady Sun, a relative of the Xi clan leader, has sent grain to alleviate a recent drought, and her daughter, Sun Zhaomin, shoulders the responsibility of safeguarding Liangzhou. Skilled with a heavy spear, Zhaomin’s dedication resonates with Qiluo, as both women have faced societal biases against their gender. Zhaomin, fully aware of Qiluo’s true identity, shares mutual respect with her.
Xuan Lie’s Ultimate Goal
Xuan Lie aspires to become the Wolf Lord, not just for power but to uncover the truth behind his father’s murder, which was falsely declared an accident by the previous king and empress dowager. The current king has promised to reopen the investigation if Xuan Lie secures the position, making Sun Zhaomin’s support crucial.
Troubles Brewing
In Yannan, Jun Qiluo’s father meets with the king, expressing concern over Jun Feifan’s disappearance. He emphasizes that Feifan, familiar with the trade routes, is unlikely to have gotten lost. Meanwhile, the second branch of the Jun family rejoices at the prospect of Qiluo’s failure to return, anticipating their takeover of the family fortune.
Prisoner’s Struggles
Shaoqi Min remains captive but bides his time. As night falls, he secretly retrieves a hidden blade, preparing to confront his captors. Princess Xuan Qingkou, watching from the shadows, witnesses his resolve. Drawn to his courage and unique demeanor, she silently contemplates her next move, setting the stage for further intrigue.
