Cang Shan’s mother made a surprise visit, filled with urgency. She revealed that a series of mysterious murders had recently plagued the Stone Tribe. Each night, members of the tribe would disappear, only to be found lifeless in the stone forest the next day. The victims’ deaths were gruesome, with no exceptions—they all died with eyes wide open, their expressions filled with agony. Cang Shan’s father, the tribe leader, decided to investigate but disappeared without a trace. With nowhere else to turn, Cang Shan’s mother sought Fan Yue’s help to resolve the crisis.
Bai Shuo, concerned for Fan Yue’s health, was hesitant, but the Wunian Stone unexpectedly activated, revealing an image of a rugged village. Fan Yue deduced that the next “thought” was located in the Stone Tribe. With three thoughts—kindness, killing, and love—already gathered, only greed and hatred remained, both likely tied to death. Bai Shuo insisted on accompanying Fan Yue, and he didn’t object. Upon arrival, Cang Shan’s mother arranged accommodations for them. They were greeted warmly by Shi Lei, Cang Shan’s friend, who later took them to examine the victims’ bodies.
The investigation revealed shocking details: the victims were not killed instantly but had their bones shattered and were tortured to death. Shi Lei assured Bai Shuo and Fan Yue that the Stone Tribe was peaceful, with no history of feuds, making such brutality unimaginable. However, Fan Yue remained skeptical, stating that disbelief did not negate facts and that everyone was a suspect until the truth was revealed.
Meanwhile, Chong Zhao secretly visited Fu Ling in the dungeon and gave her a Lanling Sect elixir. Fu Ling, worried about the consequences, warned him of Tian Yu’s wrath, but Chong Zhao dismissed her concerns. Despite Tian Yu’s harsh treatment of her, Fu Ling remained loyal, recalling how her master had saved her as an abandoned child. Chong Zhao saw this loyalty as the reason Tian Yu repeatedly tormented her, urging her to realize she could choose her own path. However, Fu Ling had already consumed a heart-devouring pill, leaving her no escape.
After leaving Fu Ling, Chong Zhao confessed his actions to Tian Yu, claiming he only freed Fu Ling to repay a debt and sever ties. Chong Zhao hinted at his belief that Tian Yu needed stronger allies, implying his own value. Tian Yu remained indifferent.
That night, Bai Shuo and Fan Yue speculated that the murders might be acts of revenge. Elsewhere, Cang Shan’s mother sought divine help but returned home disheartened. When questioned by Cang Shan about a possible connection between the murders and past events, she slapped him, silencing his accusations against his father.
The next morning, Chong Zhao brought medicine to Fu Ling and subtly questioned her about Chen Ye’s whereabouts. Meanwhile, Fu Ling, in a state of confusion, recited Chong Zhao’s family teachings, shocking him. Further probing revealed her memories of a dagger, two young girls, and her time in Cold Spring Palace, which began ten years ago.
Later, a wounded boy appeared at the Stone Tribe’s entrance. Fan Yue identified him as his younger brother, Qi Feng, through his flute. However, Qi Feng was secretly Chen Ye of Cold Spring Palace. Bai Shuo discovered that Qi Feng’s spiritual veins in his legs had been severed and grew suspicious but kept his concerns to himself.
After Qi Feng regained consciousness, Fan Yue confronted him about their past. Under pressure, Qi Feng revealed that the purple-eyed boy the Tiger Tribe sought was not him but Fan Yue. This revelation left Fan Yue in turmoil. Bai Shuo comforted him, urging him to stay strong.
Chong Zhao speculated that Fu Ling might be Bai Xi but lacked evidence and chose not to disclose his suspicions. Meanwhile, Jin Yao feared the emergence of a demonic insect, which could cause devastation comparable to the past deadly poison. He hoped his fears would not come true.
In a gesture of goodwill, Bai Shuo visited Qi Feng, and the two exchanged gifts, marking a moment of peace amid growing tensions.
