Fu Yuanting speaks with Abao about her search for her father using the Blood Sacrifice. Abao explains that her father saved her but still refuses to meet her. She wonders if her father doesn’t want her anymore. Fu Yuanting reassures her, saying her father must have important matters to attend to and will come for her when the time is right. Abao recalls her mother telling her the same thing and clings to the hope of their eventual reunion.
Meanwhile, Fu Lansheng takes Gao Qiumin to a large tree, introducing it as his “Tree of Solace.” Gao Qiumin notices red cloth strips tied to the branches and teases Fu Lansheng about having so many worries. Fu Lansheng explains that the cloths represent his happy memories, as he visits the tree whenever he feels troubled and reflects on the good times to lift his spirits.
He hands Gao Qiumin some red cloth strips, encouraging her to hang her worries on the tree, declaring a new rule: the tree will now carry both of their burdens. Delighted, Gao Qiumin throws her cloth onto the tree and makes a wish to live freely and pursue her desires. She expresses her gratitude to Fu Lansheng, saying that having him by her side is a blessing.
The Peach Blossom Forest
Xie Xuechen and Mu Xuanling journey to the Peach Blossom Forest. As they venture deeper, they encounter a thick fog. Xie Xuechen is shocked to see two identical Mu Xuanlings speaking in the same tone. Both produce identical weapons gifted by Sang Qi. Xie Xuechen examines the weapons and quickly discerns the real Mu Xuanling, causing the illusion to dissolve.
Continuing their journey, Xie Xuechen notices peach blossom-shaped marks spreading across Mu Xuanling’s skin. Realizing she’s been poisoned, he gives her an antidote. When Mu Xuanling wakes up, she learns the antidote temporarily causes blindness. Xie Xuechen explains that the poison will be neutralized once the peach blossom marks fade but warns that the lingering fragrance can confuse the mind and relax inhibitions.
As the sweet scent fills the air, Xie Xuechen momentarily loses control and kisses Mu Xuanling. She doesn’t resist, and they share a passionate moment. Regaining clarity, Xie Xuechen pulls back, apologizing for taking advantage of her vulnerable state. He vows to wait until she regains her sight before acting on his feelings. He then guards the cave entrance while Mu Xuanling rests.
The next morning, Mu Xuanling awakens and notices the peach blossom marks on her neck. Some of the blossoms seem to have grown naturally from her own essence, unsettling her. Xie Xuechen senses her awakening and approaches.
The Longevity Lotus and a New Threat
The pair discover a spot rich in spiritual energy and find the Longevity Lotus growing there. Just as Xie Xuechen prepares to harvest its seeds, Venerable Fengxiang appears, blocking his way. Fengxiang reveals she has been waiting for them. Xie Xuechen clarifies that he only needs the lotus seeds to cure his friend’s poisoning from the “Enlightened Heart” potion and has no interest in the lotus flower or root.
Fengxiang, skeptical of his intentions, accuses him of seeking the lotus for immortality. A fight ensues, during which she notices his sword, Juntian, and questions how he managed to make it recognize him as its master. Mu Xuanling explains that Xie Xuechen is the leader of the Immortal Alliance, but Fengxiang dismisses her claim, asserting that the leader is Venerable Qian Guang, who lived 6,000 years ago.
Confused by the contradiction, they decide to revisit the matter the next day.
Concerned Allies
Elsewhere, Nan Xuyue and Feng Yao arrive at the Peach Blossom Forest, driven by Nan Xuyue’s concern for Mu Xuanling. They prepare to track Xie Xuechen and Mu Xuanling, worried about the challenges they might face.
