The setting is a harsh, cold border pass where the convoy is struggling against the weather.

Yuchi Jinwu, a member of the Khotan royal family, is on a mission to offer tribute to the new Sui emperor, Yang Jian.

His favored concubine is with him, and they discuss crossing the Great Wall before nightfall.

Yuchi Jinwu is worried about the journey, which has already been plagued with trouble like horse illnesses and bad weather.

Yuchi Jinwu reveals to his concubine that he carries a valuable tribute, the Jade of Heaven Lake, hidden in his carriage.

The jade is a legendary treasure believed to grant eternal life and cure any disease; it is highly coveted by many.

Khotan’s king decided to offer the jade to the Sui emperor in hopes of securing an alliance and protection from the Göktürks.

The convoy is suddenly attacked; a guard is beheaded in front of Yuchi Jinwu.

Yuchi Jinwu is stabbed through the chest, dying instantly.

The scene changes to a snow-covered landscape filled with the corpses of the convoy and horses.

A group of riders arrives at the massacre site; their leader is a man in a black coat.

The leader examines the scene, showing no emotion or surprise at the brutality.

The local constable attempts to ingratiate himself with the leader, offering a handkerchief.

The leader removes his coat, revealing jade hair and white robes, and continues his examination despite the cold.

The Khotanese envoy, Yuchi Jinwu, was ambushed and killed near Liugong City.

The county magistrate of Liugong fears he will be blamed for the incident.

The dignitary in white from the Jiejian Bureau arrives to investigate the scene.

Liu Lin, the county lieutenant, discovers Göktürk sabers near the corpses, suspecting Göktürks are behind the attack.

The Göktürks might have killed the envoy to cause friction between Khotan and the Sui dynasty.

The convoy had four carriages: one for Yuchi Jinwu, one for supplies, one for tribute, and one for the maids.

The group finds two female corpses, suspected to be maids and possibly concubines of Yuchi Jinwu.

The dignitary in white searches for another missing woman based on the fragrance in the carriage.

No more women are found among the twenty-one corpses.

The dignitary orders the bodies and weapons taken back to the city, leaving the carriages behind.

Pei Jingzhe is tasked with investigating the scene further and finds a cabinet with makeup and rouge missing, indicating the presence of another woman.

The dignitary deduces that the missing woman might have been involved in the murders.

A letter from the Khotanese king found in the carriage outlines Yuchi Jinwu’s mission to seek an alliance with the Sui dynasty against the Göktürks.

The Göktürks might have framed themselves using their own sabers to confuse the investigation.

Pei Jingzhe discovers that Yuchi Jinwu had a concubine named Lady Qin, who is missing from the scene.

Lady Qin was deeply religious and used to visit temples in Liugong City.

Lady Qin’s family moved away after she left with Yuchi Jinwu.

Zixia Monastery, where Lady Qin often went, recently gained popularity after a new abbot, Cui Buqu, took charge.

Cui Buqu is a mysterious figure with little known about his origins.

Feng Xiao finds the name Cui Buqu intriguing and decides to investigate further.

Zixia Monastery had declined but was rejuvenated with the arrival of a new abbot, drawing large crowds.

On the third day of the third month, many people gathered at the monastery for the birthday of the god Xuantian Shangdi.

Lady Zhang visits the monastery, recalling how the new abbot cured her infant son's illness when other temples and doctors had failed.

Lady Zhang joins the crowd to listen to Abbot Cui's lecture on Daoism and karma.

Abbot Cui speaks about karma, stating that both Daoism and Buddhism share similar teachings on the consequences of actions.

Abbot Cui uses Lady Zhang as an example, praising her family's kindness and implying it contributed to her son's recovery.

Lady Zhang is surprised and flattered by Abbot Cui’s words, feeling honored and intending to donate more to the monastery.

As the lecture continues, a sudden assassination attempt occurs, with a shadowy figure lunging at Abbot Cui with a sword.

The sword nearly reaches Abbot Cui's forehead, and despite the priests’ attempts to intervene, they are too late.

Lady Zhang watches in terror as the sword is about to strike Abbot Cui, fearing he will be killed.

The assassin attempts to kill Abbot Cui, envisioning the brutal death he will cause.

As the assassin's sword is about to strike, a mysterious hand catches the blade and breaks it effortlessly.

Feng Xiao, the man who intercepted the assassin, chases and fights him, showcasing superior martial arts skills.

The assassin, realizing he is outmatched, throws the broken sword and makes a desperate attempt to kill Cui Buqu, but is ultimately killed by Feng Xiao.

Feng Xiao confronts Cui Buqu, demanding to know why the assassin called him a traitor.

Cui Buqu claims to have no knowledge of the assassin or the reason behind the attack.

Feng Xiao arrests Cui Buqu and his novices, revealing he is from the Jiejian Bureau.

The Jiejian Bureau is a powerful, secretive organization that answers directly to the emperor and acts during times of crisis.

Feng Xiao suspects that the missing Khotanese tribute is the Jade of Heaven Lake, making the case more complicated.

Feng Xiao interrogates Cui Buqu at Qiushan Manor, suspecting him of being more than he appears.

Cui Buqu admits he's connected to Liuli Palace of Fangzhang Isle, known for recording martial arts history and harboring exiles.

Feng Xiao questions Cui Buqu about Qin Miaoyu, the missing Khotanese envoy’s concubine, and Cui's sudden rise at Zixia Monastery.

Feng Xiao notes the same cold plum blossom fragrance on Cui Buqu as in the murdered envoy’s carriage, raising more suspicion.

Cui Buqu deflects the accusations, pointing out the crowded monastery as a possible source of the fragrance.

Feng Xiao remains unconvinced, finding Cui Buqu's calm demeanor and evasive answers suspicious.

Feng Xiao hints at further interrogation, leaving Cui Buqu with more questions about his intentions.

Cui Buqu is placed in a house renovated as a Jiejian Bureau torture chamber, designed to drive people to mental breakdowns through sensory deprivation and isolation.

Feng Xiao and Pei Jingzhe leave Cui Buqu alone, confident he will break under the intense silence and darkness.

Cui Buqu remains calm, using breathing exercises to maintain his composure, aware of Feng Xiao's psychological tactics.

Three days pass, and Pei Jingzhe expresses concern that Cui Buqu may not survive the ordeal if it continues much longer.

Feng Xiao receives a report confirming that the missing Khotanese tribute is indeed the Jade of Heaven Lake, which increases the stakes of the investigation.

Pei Jingzhe suggests that Lady Qin's disappearance is connected to the jade, and finding her could lead to the treasure.

Pei Jingzhe discusses three leads in their investigation of Lady Qin: Yufo Temple, Zixia Monastery, and her aunt's family.

Lady Qin's aunt’s family perished in a fire, possibly to eliminate witnesses who could expose Lady Qin's true identity.

The Jiejian Bureau suspects that "Qin Miaoyu" could have been replaced by an imposter when Yuchi Jinwu was chosen as envoy to steal the jade.

Feng Xiao orders the city to limit entries and exits, with the Jiejian Bureau monitoring for any smuggling attempts.

The Linlang Pavilion auction poses a challenge due to its powerful backers, including the Li and Cui clans and Princess Leping.

Feng Xiao plans to keep Linlang Pavilion under surveillance during the auction, despite its powerful connections.

News arrives of a deadly street brawl near Ruyi Tavern, prompting Feng Xiao to investigate the incident.

Before leaving, Feng Xiao instructs Pei Jingzhe to use "incense of helplessness" on Cui Buqu to force a confession, even if it risks harming him.

Linlang Pavilion holds an annual auction that attracts people from all walks of life, offering rare herbs, classics, spices, and gemstones.

The auction's location changes yearly; this year, it's in Liugong City, which has made some attendees hesitant due to its proximity to the Göktürk Khaganate.

An incident occurs at Linlang Pavilion’s entrance where a man named Ying Wuqiu attacks Wen Liang, the head broker, and is killed in the scuffle.

Ying Wuqiu's sister appears, accusing Wen Liang of killing her brother and their father, demanding justice.

Magistrate Zhao calls Feng Xiao to investigate the situation.

Wen Liang claims self-defense, stating Ying Wuqiu attacked him first, but Ying's sister accuses him of murder.

Feng Xiao orders that all involved be brought to the county office for interrogation.

During the confrontation, a poisoned needle is thrown at Wen Liang, but Feng Xiao intercepts it, indicating Wen Liang has other enemies.

Feng Xiao decides to detain Wen Liang, stating that everyone involved in the case is a suspect.

Wen Liang protests, claiming his need to oversee the auction, but Feng Xiao dismisses his concerns.

A servant from the house of Princess Leping tries to intervene, invoking her name to protect Wen Liang.

Princess Leping is the former empress of the previous dynasty, now Yang Jian's daughter, with significant influence.

Feng Xiao, unimpressed, reveals his identity as part of the Jiejian Bureau, causing the servant to be terrified and back down immediately.

Princess Leping, the daughter of Emperor Wen and Empress Dugu, has a special status due to her unique position as the previous dynasty's empress.

The emperor and empress, known as the "Two Saints," are highly respected and devoted to each other, with Empress Dugu being heavily involved in state affairs.

Princess Leping's household holds considerable influence, and her daughter Yuwen Eying has used this power to help people in the past.

Six months prior, Princess Leping clashed with the Jiejian Bureau when she demanded the release of a nurse's son. Feng Xiao humiliated her head guard by breaking his sword.

Emperor Wen supported Feng Xiao, reinforcing the Jiejian Bureau's authority and making it clear even Princess Leping couldn't overrule them.

At Linlang Pavilion, Feng Xiao orders all involved in the fight, including Wen Liang and those from Princess Leping's household, to be detained and interrogated.

Feng Xiao hands over the investigation to Magistrate Zhao, who uncovers a long-standing feud between the Ying and Wen families.

Years ago, the Ying family murdered the Wen patriarch and his son to take over their business, while the surviving Wen son, Wen Liang, later exposed the Ying family's crimes.

Ying Wuqiu attempted to frame Wen Liang for murder by poisoning himself and attacking Wen Liang, but the coroner’s autopsy cleared Wen Liang.

Feng Xiao shows little interest in the feud, focusing on Wen Liang's current activities and his potential connection to the Jade of Heaven Lake.

Pei Jingzhe suspects Wen Liang's devotion to his ill mother might have motivated him to steal the jade for its reputed healing powers.

Feng Xiao finds the situation suspiciously convenient, considering Wen Liang's involvement as possibly a deliberate attempt to mislead the investigation.

Pei Jingzhe reports using incense of helplessness on Cui Buqu, but it had no effect, indicating Cui Buqu's exceptional resilience.

Incense of helplessness is a potent drug causing addiction and severe withdrawal symptoms if not inhaled regularly.

Cui Buqu is held in sensory deprivation for five days, with limited food and water, causing him to lose track of time and weaken.

He maintains his sanity by reciting classical texts and focusing his mind, though he becomes ill and feverish.

Feng Xiao uses incense of helplessness on Cui Buqu, which begins to affect him, but Cui Buqu recognizes it from past exposure and prepares himself mentally.

Cui Buqu remains defiant, knowing that Feng Xiao will eventually need him for the Linlang Pavilion auction, which is ongoing.

The auction is in its final stages, with rare treasures expected on the last day, but Lady Qin and the Jade of Heaven Lake have not yet appeared.

Feng Xiao is frustrated by the lack of progress, feeling as if he's missing an important detail in the investigation.

Pei Jingzhe informs Feng Xiao that Cui Buqu appears to be in a daze from the incense and may be innocent.

Feng Xiao finds Cui Buqu in poor condition, debating whether to cleanse the incense from his body to keep him alive.

Feng Xiao speculates whether Cui Buqu might be from the Zuoyue Bureau, indicating there may be more to him than meets the eye.

The Zuoyue Bureau was established six months after the Jiejian Bureau and answers directly to Empress Dugu, with duties primarily concerning the jianghu.

The Zuoyue Bureau, though smaller and more secretive, competes with the Jiejian Bureau, leading to occasional conflicts between the two agencies.

Feng Xiao suspects Cui Buqu might be from the Zuoyue Bureau, sent to monitor the events around Linlang Pavilion’s auction.

Despite Pei Jingzhe’s concern, Feng Xiao is unperturbed about antagonizing the Zuoyue Bureau, believing the assassination of the Khotanese envoy would draw their involvement.

Cui Buqu suffers from illness and nightmares while imprisoned, hinting at a painful past involving rejection and hardship from his family.

Feng Xiao and Pei Jingzhe discuss Cui Buqu's potential role in the Zuoyue Bureau while he's unconscious, deciding not to neutralize the incense of helplessness yet.

Feng Xiao wakes Cui Buqu and demands his help for the auction, offering to neutralize the incense if he cooperates.

Cui Buqu agrees but demands proper food as a condition, receiving only a bowl of congee and pickles, which he reluctantly eats.

Pei Jingzhe informs Cui Buqu of the events leading up to the Linlang Pavilion auction, including the murder of the Khotanese envoy and the mysterious plum blossom fragrance in the carriage.

Cui Buqu shows interest in the fragrance, which Pei Jingzhe likens to incense of helplessness, implying it could be an important clue.

Cui Buqu, still suffering from the effects of the incense of helplessness, wakes up feeling weak and feverish.

He finds new clothes and a coat at his bedside, presumably provided by Pei Jingzhe.

Pei Jingzhe informs Cui Buqu that they will be going out for breakfast, a rare occasion as Feng Xiao usually doesn’t allow him to eat lavishly.

Feng Xiao takes them to a new restaurant called Wuwei House, which features dishes cooked by Maiden Hong, a famous local chef.

The restaurant is revealed to be large and luxurious, hinting at significant backing.

Cui Buqu uses his knowledge to identify a couple at another table: the woman is Lu Miaomiao from a wealthy local family, and the man is her cousin, Su Xing, who is likely to inherit the family business by marrying her.

Feng Xiao teases Cui Buqu, offering him two vials, one containing a temporary antidote for the poison, but Cui Buqu refuses to play into Feng Xiao’s game.

Feng Xiao imitates Su Xing's behavior by offering Cui Buqu food in a mocking manner, causing tension.

Su Xing notices Feng Xiao's mocking and gets angry, confronting him directly.

Feng Xiao mocks Su Xing by imitating his behavior and words, which angers Su Xing.

Su Xing tries to confront Feng Xiao, but Lady Lu, his cousin and fiancée, persuades him to let it go.

Lady Lu thanks Cui Buqu for helping treat her mother’s health issues, indicating they know each other.

Su Xing expresses his displeasure at Feng Xiao’s behavior, and Cui Buqu denies knowing Feng Xiao well, distancing himself from Feng Xiao’s antics.

Feng Xiao points out that Su Xing’s reaction to being mocked seems overly sensitive for someone who should be used to dealing with customers as a businessman.

Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao discuss Su Xing's behavior, suggesting he acts differently around Lady Lu and customers, indicating a manipulative side.

Feng Xiao teases Cui Buqu about his thorough knowledge of people in Liugong City, suggesting that Cui Buqu might be up to something, to which Cui Buqu retorts that he's in the clutches of the Jiejian Bureau.

After their meal, Feng Xiao, Pei Jingzhe, and Cui Buqu head to Linlang Pavilion’s Liugong City branch.

Meanwhile, two mysterious individuals enter the room after they leave and find a clue left by Cui Buqu: a "cold plum blossom fragrance."

The woman suggests investigating the fragrance further, as it might be connected to the Khotanese homicide case.

Cui Buqu had carved "Cold plum blossom fragrance" into the table with his fingernail, indicating a clue.

Qiao Xian and Zhangsun Bodhi discuss Cui Buqu's deteriorating health and his tendency to push himself too hard, but acknowledge they can't intervene.

They decide to follow Cui Buqu's clue about the cold plum blossom fragrance, starting by visiting perfume shops in Liugong City.

Despite visiting many shops, they fail to find the specific cold plum blossom fragrance and learn that such perfumes are rare and highly sought after.

A shopkeeper suggests they check with a dancer named Yunyun at Chunxiang House, as she’s known for changing her fragrance daily.

Qiao Xian and Zhangsun Bodhi find this information promising and decide to pursue it, considering Chunxiang House a potential lead.

At Linlang Pavilion’s auction, Feng Xiao, Cui Buqu, and Pei Jingzhe encounter Lin Yong, the young master of Yandang Mountain Estate.

Lin Yong shows an unusual eagerness to greet Feng Xiao, hinting at a peculiar past connection.

Feng Xiao introduces Cui Buqu to Lin Yong as a "dear friend," implying a closer relationship than exists, which leaves Cui Buqu bewildered.

Feng Xiao refers to Cui Buqu as his "dear friend" to Lin Yong, sparking jealousy.

Lin Yong is revealed to have had romantic feelings for Feng Xiao for years, but Feng Xiao never reciprocated.

Feng Xiao continues to act intimately with Cui Buqu in front of Lin Yong, using him as a shield to ward off Lin Yong’s advances.

Inside Linlang Pavilion, Feng Xiao finally lets go of Cui Buqu, who realizes Feng Xiao’s behavior was a strategic move rather than genuine affection.

Cui Buqu deduces that Feng Xiao might be investigating Lin Yong, speculating on his possible connection to the Khotanese envoy's murder.

Feng Xiao tries to recruit Cui Buqu into the Jiejian Bureau, offering him a high-ranking position.

Cui Buqu denies any affiliation with the Zuoyue Bureau, despite Feng Xiao's persistent attempts to pry into his background.

The auction’s main event begins, shifting everyone's focus to the stage.

Linlang Pavilion's auction is highly prestigious, attracting bidders from various backgrounds, each hoping to secure a valuable item.

The auction begins with a bronze wine vessel used by Duke Huan of Qi, quickly sparking a bidding war.

Feng Xiao doesn't bid but instead observes the bidders, asking Cui Buqu for information on them.

Cui Buqu identifies the winning bidder as Leng Du, adopted son of Ning Shewo, chief helmsman of the Nine Guilds of Water Transport.

Cui Buqu provides background on the Nine Guilds and their influence in the Southern dynasty.

The auction proceeds with the sale of a famous zither, Luqi, and a sword named Baihong. Feng Xiao shows interest in the zither but refrains from bidding when the price gets too high.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu exchange banter, with Feng Xiao hinting he has a better treasure than the zither.

Cui Buqu explains that the zither was bought by Cui Hao, a member of the Cui family of Boling, likely as a gift for his grandfather.

The auction reaches its midpoint, and staff serve hot dishes to the attendees.

An unnamed jade item is brought out, which causes excitement among the crowd. It's revealed to be the Jade of Heaven Lake.

Zhangsun Bodhi visits Chunxiang House, seeking Yunyun-niangzi, a famed dancer rumored to have access to rare perfumes.

Despite Madam Xue's reluctance to entertain guests during the day, Zhangsun persuades her with a pouch of golden pearls.

Zhangsun Bodhi recalls meeting Yunyun eight years ago when she helped him by giving a golden hairpin. He offers to redeem her, but she declines, preferring her current life.

He asks Yunyun to dance to "The Drunken East Wind," possibly as a cover to observe her or search for information.

Back at Linlang Pavilion's auction, the Jade of Heaven Lake is presented openly as an item of unknown origin.

Bidding for the jade starts at five thousand coppers, quickly escalating to high amounts as people vie for this rare treasure.

Feng Xiao, through Pei Jingzhe, makes a bold bid of five thousand taels of silver and ten golden pearls, catching everyone's attention.

In response to the attention, Cui Buqu suddenly slaps Feng Xiao and accuses him of being a shameless cad pursuing him after his sister, putting on a public display to divert suspicion.

Feng Xiao is caught off guard, not expecting Cui Buqu's outburst and its implications on his public image.

Cui Buqu accuses Feng Xiao of detaining him unjustly, causing an uproar among the audience at the Linlang Pavilion auction.

Feng Xiao counters Cui Buqu’s accusations, suggesting that he has "trained" Cui Buqu’s sister and now wants him as well, implying a scandalous relationship.

Cui Buqu escalates the situation by describing Feng Xiao's "strange, secret hobbies," making the crowd believe Feng Xiao has unusual fetishes.

The auction comes to a halt, but Feng Xiao insists it continue, and they proceed to bid for the Jade of Heaven Lake.

Feng Xiao wins the jade, and they return to Qiushan Manor with the jade in their possession.

Pei Jingzhe confronts Cui Buqu about his sharp accusations, feeling that Feng Xiao’s reputation has been damaged.

Cui Buqu fakes coughing up blood using mulberry juice to mockingly show the extent he’s willing to go to act out his role.

Feng Xiao, amused by Cui Buqu’s antics, offers him the position of the fourth chief in the Jiejian Bureau, but Cui Buqu declines, maintaining that he doesn't know of any Zuoyue Bureau.

They turn their attention back to the jade, with Feng Xiao questioning Cui Buqu about the people who bid on it.

Cui Buqu identifies the most suspicious bidders: Zhou Pei, linked to the Göktürks, and Go Nyeong, a martial artist from Goguryeo.

Zhangsun Bodhi, normally an ascetic, visits Chunxiang House to meet Yunyun and watches her dance with intense focus, surprising her with his solemnity.

After the dance, Yunyun, captivated by Zhangsun's demeanor, invites him to stay longer, but he only asks to paint her, which impresses her.

Yunyun agrees to Zhangsun's request and poses for him while he paints her in her room.

Hong Zhu, a maid at Chunxiang House, sneaks a peek at the scene, expecting to witness something intimate but only sees Zhangsun painting. She leaves quietly, unaware that Qiao Xian is observing her.

Qiao Xian considers a different method to question Hong Zhu, recognizing that her obvious weaknesses can be exploited.

At Qiushan Manor, Cui Buqu identifies Go Nyeong, a famous sword expert from Goguryeo, as a possible suspect due to his potential interest in the jade's rumored medicinal properties.

Pei Jingzhe is skeptical of Go Nyeong's reputation, but Cui Buqu points out that the allure of the jade's powers, even if based on hearsay, could motivate someone like Go Nyeong.

Feng Xiao and Pei Jingzhe discuss the possibility of an inside job at Linlang Pavilion to steal the jade, considering Wen Liang’s potential involvement before his arrest.

Feng Xiao suspects that there are more hidden motives at play and feels like there are several invisible hands manipulating the case.

Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao share a moment of mutual suspicion and unspoken rivalry, each recognizing the other's cunning nature.

Pei Jingzhe raises the possibility of there being two Jades of Heaven Lake, suggesting that the one they have could be a fake.

Cui Buqu examines the jade and finds it cold to the touch, but none of them can verify if it's the genuine Jade of Heaven Lake.

Pei Jingzhe shares that Wen Liang, the head broker of Linlang Pavilion, received the jade from an old servant who claimed it was a family heirloom to be sold due to financial troubles.

If the jade wasn’t included in the auction, Linlang Pavilion would have held it for a year before selling it.

A new envoy from Khotan is on his way to Liugong City to confirm the jade's authenticity.

Cui Buqu observes that ten people were eyeing the jade during the auction; three were dissatisfied, and two had murderous intent.

The three dissatisfied individuals are Leng Du, Zhou Pei, and Zhang Yingshui, while the two with murderous intent were a Göktürk man and a gray-clad man wearing a bamboo hat.

Feng Xiao notes someone has been eavesdropping outside the manor and invites them in.

A woman in yellow appears, along with three others: a veiled figure in white, a Göktürk man, and a gray-clad man with a scar.

Another figure, a tall and slender woman partly in shadows, emerges but doesn’t speak.

A sixth person, an assassin from the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai, is mentioned but has already left.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu realize they’re surrounded by several potential threats, with Cui Buqu eagerly anticipating how Feng Xiao will handle the situation.

Qiao Xian waits at a teahouse for Zhangsun Bodhi, disliking the local tea, and declines an offer of noodles.

Zhangsun arrives late, having discovered that a woman named Miao-niangzi created the unique perfume worn by Yunyun.

Qiao Xian learns from Yunyun's maid, Hong Zhu, that Yunyun had invited Miao-niangzi to reside in a private manor she had secretly purchased.

They plan to visit the manor to learn more about Miao-niangzi.

Meanwhile, at Qiushan Manor, Cui Buqu enjoys watching as Feng Xiao faces off against five martial experts who have gathered to steal the jade.

Feng Xiao taunts the woman in yellow, who introduces herself as Bing Xian, and she requests to borrow the jade briefly.

Feng Xiao pretends to be charmed by her and throws the jade at her, leading to a sudden scramble among the martial artists.

The Göktürk man ignores the jade, attacking Feng Xiao directly with powerful saber qi.

Feng Xiao uses Cui Buqu as a shield to block the attack, ruining Cui Buqu's topknot, and he angrily curses Feng Xiao.

The man in gray manages to grab the jade, but it shatters into powder, revealing it was a fake all along.

The man in gray, identified as Go Nyeong, claims he did not break the jade, but the others accuse him of destroying it out of spite.

The person in white deduces Go Nyeong's identity as a martial artist trained by the Japanese Soga clan, rising to fame in Goguryeo.

Bing Xian realizes the people present are formidable opponents, decides to leave, and disappears into the darkness.

The Göktürk man, Fo’er, who is focused on Feng Xiao, engages him in a fierce battle, displaying exceptional martial skill.

Cui Buqu tells Pei Jingzhe that Fo’er is not interested in the jade but in killing Feng Xiao, revealing Fo'er as the top martial artist under Ishbara Khagan.

Feng Xiao, using a zither as a weapon, skillfully fights Fo'er, impressing everyone with his martial prowess.

Go Nyeong attempts to take advantage of the situation and seizes Pei Jingzhe as a hostage, demanding the real jade.

Go Nyeong mistakenly believes Cui Buqu is Feng Xiao's lover and not an easy target, while considering Pei Jingzhe expendable.

Feng Xiao taunts Go Nyeong, implying that taking Cui Buqu would be a better bargaining chip, leading the person in white to grab Cui Buqu.

Cui Buqu is immobilized by pain as the person in white seizes him.

Cui Buqu is captured by the person in white, who places a heavy palm on his shoulder, causing intense pain and numbness.

The person in white, speaking gently, suggests that Cui Buqu has been poisoned and offers to free him from the Jiejian Bureau's control in exchange for joining them.

Feng Xiao, still engaged in combat with Fo'er, notices the situation but cannot intervene immediately.

Fo'er unleashes a powerful attack, but Feng Xiao counters with his zither, pushing Fo'er back and injuring him internally.

Despite being at a disadvantage, Fo'er acknowledges Feng Xiao's superiority and retreats, vowing to train harder for a rematch in the future.

After defeating Fo'er, Feng Xiao discovers that the other intruders, unable to find the real jade in the manor, have fled the scene.

The person in white takes Cui Buqu away leisurely, seemingly more interested in conversing than rushing.

Cui Buqu deduces that the person in white is not from the jianghu and likely serves someone of high status, aiming to present the jade to them.

The person in white appears amused by Cui Buqu's deductions and threatens him lightly to get him to cooperate.

Feng Xiao arrives just in time, dismissing the idea that he easily defeated Fo'er and expressing concern for his "lover," Cui Buqu.

Feng Xiao catches up with the person in white and Cui Buqu, despite having fought Fo'er, the top Göktürk martial artist.

The person in white tries to avoid revealing their identity, but Feng Xiao forcefully removes their veiled hat, revealing a bald head, indicating they are a monk.

Feng Xiao mocks the monk, suggesting that they may be an imposter.

The person in white admits to being a monk with no fixed residence and tries to escape, using Cui Buqu as a shield.

Pei Jingzhe arrives, interrupting the monk’s escape, but the monk manages to flee.

Cui Buqu identifies the monk as Yuxiu, an advisor to the Prince of Jin, Yang Guang.

They discuss the potential implications of the Prince of Jin's involvement in the quest for the jade, considering his ambition and the political power at play.

Feng Xiao teases Cui Buqu about his affiliation with the Zuoyue Bureau, but Cui Buqu continues to deny any knowledge of it.

The tension breaks when Cui Buqu simply states he's hungry.

The trio wanders the city looking for food, finally sneaking into a restaurant kitchen and making themselves some noodles.

Pei Jingzhe’s cooking skills are subpar, resulting in bland and undercooked noodles, which Cui Buqu criticizes.

They discuss the possibility that the murderers of the Khotanese envoy have fallen out with each other and used a fake jade to lure each other out.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu conclude that at least one of the six people who showed up at the auction is connected to the murderers, with the person in black being the likeliest suspect.

Feng Xiao reveals he had an eagle rider follow the person in black, who was tracked to the Lu Manor.

Feng Xiao suggests they go to the Lu Manor immediately, but Cui Buqu complains of a stomachache from the bad noodles and resists going.

When Feng Xiao dismisses his complaint, Cui Buqu actually vomits the noodles he ate earlier, much to Feng Xiao's disgust.

Qiao Xian and Zhangsun Bodhi infiltrate a seemingly abandoned manor that has been under surveillance.

Inside the manor, they sense the presence of someone who is skilled in internal martial arts and breath control.

The hidden person, revealed to be Miao-niangzi, confronts an intruder dressed in black who attacks her with a sword.

Qiao Xian and Zhangsun intervene in the fight to protect Miao-niangzi, with Zhangsun ultimately overpowering the intruder.

The intruder, instead of being captured, commits suicide using a poison capsule.

Qiao Xian and Zhangsun identify themselves as members of the Zuoyue Bureau to gain Miao-niangzi's trust.

Miao-niangzi reveals she has offended a person of high status and admits she knows the killer of the Khotanese envoy.

She agrees to provide information, indicating that the murderer and the jade thief are the same person and still in the city.

Miao-niangzi attempts to reveal the murderer's identity but instead shoots poisoned darts at Qiao Xian and Zhangsun Bodhi, using the distraction to escape.

Zhangsun realizes that Miao-niangzi was hiding her true strength during their earlier encounter, which allowed her to evade capture.

Qiao Xian and Zhangsun conclude that finding Miao-niangzi again will be challenging but necessary.

Zhangsun and Qiao Xian decide that their primary focus must shift due to the presence of Fo’er, the strongest martial artist under Ishbara Khagan.

They agree to inform Cui Buqu and seek further instructions.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu return to Qiushan Manor to clean up after Cui Buqu vomited on Feng Xiao.

A maid named Tang Li, secretly working for the Zuoyue Bureau, reports back to Cui Buqu about Miao-niangzi's escape and reveals that Miao-niangzi spoke in Goguryeon, hinting that the Jade of Heaven Lake is with Qin Miaoyu.

Feng Xiao receives a ransom note stating Pei Jingzhe has been kidnapped and inviting Feng Xiao to Huyang Forest to trade for him, but Cui Buqu suggests sending a message to the kidnappers to kill Pei Jingzhe if they wish, indicating their focus is elsewhere.

Feng Xiao refuses Cui Buqu’s suggestion to abandon Pei Jingzhe and instead orders his men to surround Lu Manor.

Feng Xiao takes Cui Buqu to Huyang Forest to confront the people holding Pei Jingzhe, hoping to use Cui Buqu as a backup plan.

Go Nyeong appears, admitting Pei Jingzhe isn’t actually present.

Fo’er joins Go Nyeong, and they both attack Feng Xiao, but he skillfully fends them off using his zither as a weapon.

Cui Buqu senses danger and narrowly escapes an assassination attempt from two assassins from the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai, who are targeting Feng Xiao.

Feng Xiao is now facing four opponents, including the two assassins, and starts to lose the upper hand.

Feng Xiao is eventually overwhelmed; Fo’er lands a powerful blow that sends him over a cliff, while Go Nyeong kicks his zither away.

The assassins pursue Feng Xiao down the cliff, but Fo’er and Go Nyeong decide not to follow in the stormy weather.

Cui Buqu, having hidden during the battle, edges toward the cliff to find Feng Xiao still clinging to the edge.

Feng Xiao asks Cui Buqu to pull him up, but Cui Buqu playfully demands that Feng Xiao call him "Daddy" three times before helping.

Feng Xiao decides quickly between dignity and life, choosing the latter by calling Cui Buqu "Daddy" to get pulled up.

Feng Xiao loses his grip, and both fall into a narrow cave partway down the cliff.

The cave provides temporary safety from the assassins of the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai.

The first assassin is scared off by a flock of bats Feng Xiao disturbs, causing them to fall off the cliff.

The second assassin attacks, and Feng Xiao kills them despite being injured himself.

Feng Xiao is too injured to move, and Cui Buqu suggests climbing out to get help, but Feng Xiao refuses to let him go.

Cui Buqu proposes cooperation, offering information on the case in exchange for trust.

Cui Buqu reveals that the Zuoyue Bureau is on a secret mission to deal with the Göktürks, not the Jade of Heaven Lake.

Feng Xiao realizes Cui Buqu has been manipulating the investigation all along, especially regarding Wen Liang's case, but refrains from exacting revenge immediately.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu discuss the Göktürk Khaganate's history of conflict with the Central Plains, highlighting Ishbara Khagan's current hostility.

Cui Buqu reveals his mission in Liugong City: to divide the Göktürk tribes by negotiating with Apa Khagan, who wants to ally with the Sui dynasty.

The Khotanese envoy's murder and the jade's theft have intertwined with Cui Buqu's mission, leading him to interfere with Feng Xiao's investigation.

Cui Buqu admits to misleading Feng Xiao regarding Wen Liang to divert his attention.

Feng Xiao realizes that Fo'er, Ishbara Khagan's top martial artist, aims to kill him because he mistakenly believes Feng Xiao represents the court in the secret negotiations with Apa Khagan.

Cui Buqu proposes cooperation: Feng Xiao will keep Fo'er and others distracted to prevent interference with the envoy's arrival and negotiations.

Cui Buqu provides a lead about Lady Qin Miaoyu, likely a Goguryeon and the jade's possessor, who enhanced her martial arts through the jade.

They deduce that Qin Miaoyu's accomplices are also searching for her, and the jade auctioned off was bait to lure her out.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu plan to catch both Qin Miaoyu and her accomplices to eliminate future threats.

Feng Xiao asks about Cui Buqu's real identity in the Zuoyue Bureau; Cui Buqu jokingly claims to be Zhangsun Bodhi, the bureau's deputy chief.

Feng Xiao catches on to Cui Buqu's bluff about being the deputy chief of the Zuoyue Bureau, leading to a banter about deception and doubles in the bureau.

Cui Buqu explains how the Zuoyue Bureau operates in secrecy, often using doubles and hidden identities for its high-ranking members.

Feng Xiao offers Cui Buqu a position in the Jiejian Bureau, promising power and authority, but Cui Buqu counters that it wouldn’t be much different than his current role.

Their conversation reveals insights about the Göktürk Khaganate, with discussions about the strengths and rivalries among Göktürk martial artists.

As they talk, Cui Buqu suddenly suffers a severe flare-up of the incense of helplessness, enduring immense pain without showing weakness.

Feng Xiao reflects briefly on the severity of using such poison on Cui Buqu, realizing that he had underestimated his resilience.

Feng Xiao offers more incense of helplessness to alleviate the current symptoms, but Cui Buqu refuses, determined to fight the poison's effects without further succumbing to it.

The harsh conditions of their cave worsen with a sudden onslaught of wind and snow, causing both men to cough from the cold and their injuries.

Wolves howl in the distance, adding to the dangerous situation. Feng Xiao suggests they huddle for warmth, and despite initial resistance, they end up doing so to survive the cold.

Pei Jingzhe, meanwhile, is standing at the gates of Lu Manor, dealing with his own unexpected developments.

Pei Jingzhe arrives at Lu Manor and is hesitant about how to approach the situation alone, considering the possibility of spooking the suspect and losing the lead.

He is about to infiltrate when a scream from inside the manor draws his attention, followed by the appearance of Qiao Xian and Zhangsun Bodhi, who demand the return of Cui Buqu.

Qiao Xian and Zhangsun Bodhi confront Pei Jingzhe, assuming the Jiejian Bureau has detained Cui Buqu, and a brief clash ensues.

In the middle of the confrontation, Lu Ti, the patriarch of the Lu family, emerges, angered by the disturbance, claiming his daughter has drowned.

Pei Jingzhe realizes the coincidence between the scream and their investigation, deciding to surround the manor to prevent anyone from escaping.

Lu Ti tries to prevent them from searching the manor, but Pei Jingzhe, with support from Qiao Xian and Zhangsun, orders the Jiejian Bureau to search the premises.

Pei Jingzhe learns from a Qiushan Manor servant that Feng Xiao was tricked into going to Huyang Forest, believing Pei Jingzhe had been kidnapped.

Qiao Xian and Zhangsun Bodhi, alarmed that Feng Xiao took Cui Buqu with him, rush to Huyang Forest, warning Pei Jingzhe that if anything happens to Cui Buqu, they will hold him responsible.

The narrative shifts to Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu, who have spent the night in the cave. Cui Buqu is in a dire state from the incense of helplessness flare-up, while Feng Xiao tries to keep him awake by talking.

Feng Xiao reveals a story from his youth to keep Cui Buqu conscious, discussing the nature of love and the fragility of human hearts.

By dawn, Cui Buqu's fever has subsided slightly, and Feng Xiao prepares to carry him up the plateau, vowing to severely cut Pei Jingzhe's salary for not arriving sooner.

Feng Xiao finds himself physically challenged as he climbs the cliffside while carrying an unconscious Cui Buqu.

Feng Xiao attempts to wake Cui Buqu by calling him and nudging him, expressing a mix of frustration and amusement at their situation.

Feng Xiao takes the opportunity to tease Cui Buqu about his identity and the possibility of abandoning him if he doesn't wake up.

Cui Buqu eventually regains consciousness and asks for water, which Feng Xiao provides by melting snow with his internal energy.

Feng Xiao successfully deduces Cui Buqu's true identity as the chief of the Zuoyue Bureau, expressing admiration for his cunning and resilience.

Cui Buqu admits to his role in misleading Feng Xiao but argues that killing him would not eliminate the threat of the Zuoyue Bureau.

Feng Xiao considers killing Cui Buqu but ultimately decides against it, choosing instead to taunt him further.

Qiao Xian, Zhangsun Bodhi, and Pei Jingzhe search for Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu throughout the night and finally find them the next morning.

Qiao Xian and Zhangsun Bodhi are furious to see Cui Buqu covered in words written by Feng Xiao, indicating a life debt owed to him.

Despite the tension, Zhangsun takes Cui Buqu back without engaging in further conflict with Feng Xiao.

Cui Buqu rests for two days after being brought back by his subordinates, recovering from the effects of the incense of helplessness and exhaustion.

Upon waking, Cui Buqu is updated on recent events: the arrival of Apa Khagan's envoy, the city lockdown to search for Qin Miaoyu, and the drowning of Lu Ti's daughter.

Cui Buqu decides to meet with Apa's envoy and is intrigued by the situation with the Lu family, suspecting a connection to the ongoing investigation.

The drowning incident of Lu Ti’s daughter is revealed to be complex, involving familial tensions and an arranged marriage dispute with Lady Lu desiring to marry her cousin Su Xing while her father wanted to marry her into the prestigious Wang family of Taiyuan.

Cui Buqu decides to get involved in the Lu family’s case to force the Jiejian Bureau to share credit with the Zuoyue Bureau.

He anticipates that Feng Xiao will be too busy searching for Qin Miaoyu and will send Pei Jingzhe to request his help with the Lu family.

Pei Jingzhe arrives, sent by Feng Xiao to ask for Cui Buqu’s assistance in resolving the matter.

Cui Buqu agrees to help on the condition that the Jiejian Bureau promises to give him credit and Fo’er’s head.

Pei Jingzhe hesitantly agrees on Feng Xiao's behalf.

As they arrive at Lu Manor, they catch the Lu family trying to leave to buy funeral supplies for Lady Lu, who recently drowned.

Cui Buqu notices one of the servants is actually Su Xing, Lady Lu’s cousin, disguised as a maid.

Su Xing explains his intention was to buy funeral items for Lady Lu without causing rumors since they were only engaged and not married.

Cui Buqu requests to enter Lu Manor to offer incense for the deceased Lady Lu.

Inside, he announces his suspicion of foul play in Lady Lu’s death and demands to open the coffin to examine the body.

Despite the outrage from the Lu family, Cui Buqu insists, and Pei Jingzhe opens the coffin on his orders.

Lu Ti and Madam Li react with horror and wail at the sight, signaling that what is found in the coffin is shocking or unexpected.

Lady Lu had been in the coffin for two days without any odor. Cui Buqu examines her body and notices something suspicious.

Cui Buqu reveals that Lady Lu didn’t drown but was murdered, showing yellow residue in her mouth, indicating she was dead before being placed in water.

Lady Lu’s maid, He-niang, initially lies about Lady Lu's whereabouts before her death but later admits Lady Lu went to Su Xing’s room.

Su Xing claims Lady Lu came to him after hearing about her potential arranged marriage, but Cui Buqu continues to question the events leading to her death.

Cui Buqu orders all of Su Xing’s paintings brought in and notices a connection between the maid He-niang’s lotus-themed name and Su Xing’s obsession with painting lotuses.

Cui Buqu deduces that He-niang and Su Xing were involved in Lady Lu’s murder.

Su Xing is revealed to be a martial artist, having been the man in black during the night of the jade auction at Qiushan Manor.

When Cui Buqu calls him out, Su Xing tries to leave but is stopped by Qiao Xian. He takes Lu Ti hostage with a whip sword, threatening to kill him if anyone approaches.

Cui Buqu dismisses Su Xing’s attempt, indicating that the Jiejian Bureau won’t be stopped by anyone, putting pressure on Su Xing's situation.

Lu Ti is taken hostage by Su Xing, who is revealed not to be the real Su Xing, but a Goguryeon spy.

Su Xing admits he killed Lady Lu because she accidentally discovered his true identity and his involvement in the murder of the Khotanese envoy.

Su Xing reveals that he has been using the identity of Su Xing for six years, after the real Su Xing and his family died in a plague.

Cui Buqu deduces that Lady Lu was murdered and not drowned because of the lack of water sediment in her mouth.

Su Xing confesses that Lady Lu found a codebook in his study, which could have exposed him, leading to her murder.

Su Xing tries to negotiate his escape by offering valuable information about Qin Miaoyu, suggesting that only he knows her hiding places.

Cui Buqu agrees to the deal, asking for the seal of the Jiejian Bureau's deputy chief from Pei Jingzhe and giving it to Su Xing as a guarantee.

Su Xing reveals three potential hiding places for Qin Miaoyu: Chunxiang House, Ronghe Building, and a small Qingzhuan house in the east of the city.

Su Xing tries to escape with Lu Ti but is intercepted by Feng Xiao, who blocks his escape and demands the return of the seal.

Su Xing attempts to flee from Feng Xiao, using an all-out offensive strategy in his escape.

Feng Xiao overpowers Su Xing with ease, disarming him and forcing him to try to escape.

Su Xing is cornered and caught by Feng Xiao after trying to escape over the walls of Lu Manor.

Su Xing is offered leniency by Feng Xiao if his information leads to capturing Qin Miaoyu.

Lu Ti attacks Su Xing in rage but is knocked unconscious by Pei Jingzhe to prevent further violence.

Feng Xiao informs Cui Buqu that Fo’er was seen heading toward the manor where Apa Khagan's envoy is staying, causing Qiao Xian to rush to protect the envoy.

Feng Xiao reveals he lied about seeing Fo’er and suggests that capturing Fo’er’s disciple, Songji, might lead to Fo’er’s capture.

Songji appears, attacking Cui Buqu, but is quickly defeated and captured by Feng Xiao.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu agree to cooperate, with Cui giving Feng half the credit for the negotiations with Apa Khagan's envoy.

After leaving Lu Manor, Cui Buqu slyly informs Feng Xiao that he contaminated his seal with food residue from Lady Lu's mouth, leaving Feng Xiao disgusted.

Cui Buqu quickly escapes before Feng Xiao can retaliate, leaving Feng and Pei Jingzhe to search for Qin Miaoyu.

Qin Miaoyu is revealed to be a Goguryeon spy sent to the Central Plains as a child, skilled in martial arts and the art of seduction.

She lived in Liugong City with a local family who took her in and treated her like their own.

Su Xing orders her to seduce Yuchi Jinwu, a Khotanese prince, and become his concubine.

Qin Miaoyu succeeds in her mission and moves to Khotan, but secretly continues her martial arts training, yearning for freedom.

She learns from Yuchi Jinwu that there are two Jade of Heaven Lake stones, one real and one fake.

When Su Xing kills Yuchi Jinwu and the Khotanese convoy, Qin Miaoyu hides the real jade and gives Su Xing the fake.

Using the Jade of Heaven Lake, she improves her martial arts significantly and manages to escape pursuit from Qiao Xian and Zhangsun Bodhi, though injured.

While attempting to escape the city, Qin Miaoyu encounters Feng Xiao, who has found her through Su Xing's information.

Qin Miaoyu tries to reason with Feng Xiao, claiming that she killed only the maids, not Yuchi Jinwu, and offers him the jade in exchange for leniency.

Feng Xiao takes the real Jade of Heaven Lake, feeling its strange, chilling energy.

He finds Qin Miaoyu's honesty interesting but decides he won't touch the jade again after his experience, disgusted by Cui Buqu's earlier antics with the fake jade.

Qiao Xian hurries back to their residence, realizing Feng Xiao tricked her as Fo’er was not there.

She encounters Cui Buqu on his way back with Fo’er’s disciple, Songji, who was captured by Feng Xiao.

Cui Buqu orders Songji to be locked up, planning to use him to lure Fo’er out.

Qiao Xian describes fictional torture methods to intimidate Songji into cooperating.

Songji is frightened and agrees to contact his master, Fo’er.

Qiao Xian drags Cui Buqu to see a doctor as his health is declining after being exposed to poison and cold weather.

The Zuoyue Bureau members are highly protective of Cui Buqu, who is not fond of drinking medicine despite his frail health.

Apa Khagan's envoy, the lesser khatun named Jinlian, arrives for negotiations.

Jinlian is initially offended by Cui Buqu’s bluntness and lack of hospitality.

Cui Buqu proposes that Apa Khagan ally with Sui against Ishbara, offering Apa a portion of Ishbara's territory in return for annual tribute.

Jinlian refuses to become a vassal state to the Sui dynasty, leading to a tense negotiation.

Cui Buqu reveals that other factions within the Khaganate might agree to ally with Sui, putting pressure on Apa Khagan to comply.

He subtly threatens that Jinlian’s failure could result in her losing Apa Khagan's favor.

Suddenly, Fo’er, the number one martial artist of the Khaganate, appears, attacking with great force.

Jinlian is shocked and terrified by Fo’er’s unexpected arrival.

Cui Buqu remains composed, commenting on the distinguished company present, noting the danger they now face.

Fo’er's mission in Liugong City is to disrupt negotiations between Great Sui and Apa Khagan by killing envoys.

He targets Jinlian, believing her death will ruin the potential alliance.

Jinlian is a skilled martial artist but is quickly overpowered by Fo’er.

Jinlian's guards are killed or incapacitated as they try to protect her.

Cui Buqu does not intervene, suggesting Jinlian's death wouldn't significantly affect Sui's plans.

Jinlian, facing death, agrees to Cui Buqu's terms, accepting that Apa Khagan will become a tributary state to Sui.

Feng Xiao intervenes to save Jinlian and engages Fo’er in battle.

Feng Xiao and Fo’er are evenly matched, but Fo’er aims to complete his mission by causing the roof to collapse, creating chaos.

Feng Xiao saves Cui Buqu, Qiao Xian, and Zhangsun Bodhi from the debris.

Fo’er escapes, having failed to kill Jinlian.

Jinlian produces Apa Khagan's letter to confirm her authority to negotiate.

Cui Buqu reads the letter and agrees to accompany Jinlian to the Khaganate to meet Apa Khagan in person.

Feng Xiao is surprised when Cui Buqu includes him in the plan to travel to the Khaganate.

Jinlian is relieved and grateful, acknowledging the protection Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao provide for her return journey.

Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao prepare to escort Jinlian, realizing the danger that awaits them from Ishbara's faction.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu have a conversation under the moonlight, discussing the recent events and the case involving the Khotanese envoy’s murder.

Cui Buqu drinks a bitter medicine with great reluctance while Feng Xiao watches him with amusement.

Feng Xiao reveals that the jade has been retrieved from Qin Miaoyu, but it has been partially used by her to enhance her martial arts.

Cui Buqu is curious about why Feng Xiao let Qin Miaoyu live. Feng Xiao implies she has potential value due to her abilities and background.

It is revealed that Qin Miaoyu and Su Xing were spies from Goguryeo, sent by a man named Go Un, the brother of the Goguryeon king and the head of the Buyeo Sect.

Su Xing and Qin Miaoyu were activated earlier than planned due to the Goguryeon king's strange illness and the appearance of the Jade of Heaven Lake.

Feng Xiao shares that Su Xing’s contact in the Central Plains was known as "Yi-xiansheng," suggesting a significant figure with deep connections.

Both Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao are intrigued by the mystery of "Yi-xiansheng" and what other spies might be in the Central Plains.

Feng Xiao hints that he might have told Cui Buqu all this to involve him in unraveling the deeper conspiracy.

Cui Buqu agrees to involve Feng Xiao further by bringing him to the Khaganate to meet Apa Khagan.

Feng Xiao questions Cui Buqu's motives and his own role, implying a mutual interest in the ongoing intrigue.

Cui Buqu convinces Feng Xiao to accompany him by offering information about assassins and political intrigue.

The two share a moment of mutual understanding and rivalry, hinting at a begrudging respect for each other's abilities.

Feng Xiao humorously suggests Cui Buqu should use a more affectionate name for him, which Cui Buqu ignores.

Jinlian, Apa Khagan’s lesser khatun, is prepared to finalize the alliance but worries about Fo’er’s potential threat on the journey.

Cui Buqu presents Jinlian with a detailed map of the Western Khaganate, suggesting it as a valuable gift for Apa Khagan to strengthen their alliance.

The map serves as both a gesture to win over Jinlian and a warning to any Göktürks with ulterior motives.

Feng Xiao admires Cui Buqu’s clever use of the map as both an incentive and a threat to ensure cooperation with the Khaganate.

Five days pass, and Cui Buqu recovers his strength.

A new envoy from the Khotanese king arrives in Liugong City, bringing another valuable jade as a gift to maintain diplomatic ties with the Sui dynasty.

The new jade pendant, though not as rare as the Jade of Heaven Lake, is still extraordinary, believed to calm the spirit and release a unique fragrance.

Yuchi Jinwu’s death is blamed on circumstances outside Khotan's control, but the king demonstrates sincerity by sending the gift.

Feng Xiao assigns Pei Jingzhe and the Jiejian Bureau eagle riders to escort the envoy to the capital and turn Su Xing over for interrogation.

Feng Xiao excludes Qin Miaoyu from the official report, leaving her fate uncertain. Cui Buqu does not question this omission.

Cui Buqu focuses on preparations for their journey west, instructing Qiao Xian to make necessary arrangements.

A disagreement arises between Qiao Xian and Zhangsun Bodhi over who should accompany Cui Buqu. Zhangsun argues for his martial skill, while Qiao Xian emphasizes the need for leadership in the capital.

Cui Buqu decides Zhangsun will return to the capital, leaving Qiao Xian to accompany him.

Feng Xiao reassures the group of his ability to protect Cui Buqu, making light of the responsibility.

Cui Buqu subtly pressures Feng Xiao to earn credit on the journey to mitigate potential imperial dissatisfaction over the damaged jade.

Cui Buqu proposes disguises for the group, planning for them to pose as two married couples visiting relatives and conducting minor trade.

Feng Xiao initially objects to playing half of a couple, but Cui Buqu’s detailed backstory convinces him.

Qiao Xian is assigned as Cui Buqu’s "wife," and Feng Xiao is paired with Jinlian.

Cui Buqu decides Feng Xiao's striking looks must be toned down to avoid attracting attention, tasking Qiao Xian with altering his appearance.

Feng Xiao protests the use of dust and grass in his hair, exposing his aversion to dirtiness.

Cui Buqu proposes an unconventional solution: disguising Feng Xiao as a beautiful young woman.

Feng Xiao becomes contemplative about Cui Buqu’s uniqueness, admiring his intelligence, persistence, and ability to match him in wit despite his frailty.

The dynamic between Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu continues to intrigue and amuse, setting the stage for further developments during their journey west.

Feng Xiao grapples with a decision between his cleanliness and dignity as a man and ultimately agrees to disguise himself as a woman.

The group, comprising Cui Buqu, Feng Xiao, Qiao Xian, and Jinlian, sets out west in three carriages, bringing no servants but hiring two coachmen and a guide.

As they travel, Cui Buqu adopts the identity of "Master Ye Yong," a merchant, with Feng Xiao playing his wife in disguise, and Qiao Xian and Jinlian assuming different personas.

Cui Buqu struggles with Feng Xiao’s overly dramatic and flirtatious behavior in his role as "Master Ye Yong’s wife," much to his annoyance.

After half a month of traveling through the desert, the group reaches Qiemo, a lively oasis city marked by the political influence of three main factions: Gao Yi (Sui-appointed magistrate), Xing Mao (descendant of Shanshan royalty), and Duan Qihu (former bandit-turned-merchant).

Qiao Xian, disguised as a man, directs the guide to find a comfortable inn, emphasizing the importance of rest for Cui Buqu’s fragile health.

The group encounters a small sign at the inn entrance featuring a crescent moon and a swan, which Cui Buqu identifies as the mark of Duan Qihu’s influence.

Cui Buqu refuses to stay at the inn, suspecting that the guide was bribed to bring them to one of Duan Qihu’s establishments.

The guide tries to deflect suspicion by claiming he was helping them save money, but Qiao Xian subtly applies pressure, painfully subduing him to ensure cooperation.

The group insists on being taken to a safer inn to maintain their cover as ordinary travelers and avoid unnecessary trouble.

The guide, realizing the group is not to be trifled with, hastily complies with their demands.

The guide initially leads the group to a shady inn, Tianfu Inn, known for theft and shady dealings, in exchange for a commission from the inn's management.

Cui Buqu and Qiao Xian confront the guide in a dark alley, threatening him to ensure cooperation. The guide confesses most respectable inns are full due to the busy season and claims Tianfu Inn was their only option.

Under duress, the guide mentions an alternative: Yangji Inn, rumored to be cursed.

Feng Xiao, in his female disguise, enthusiastically supports checking out the Yangji Inn, amusing and exasperating Cui Buqu.

The group arrives at Yangji Inn, noticing it is oddly quiet compared to the bustling surroundings of Qiemo.

The inn’s porter eagerly welcomes them, offering rooms and food. Qiao Xian books accommodations while keeping an eye on the guide.

The guide attempts to escape but is stopped by Jinlian, who demonstrates unexpected precision and skill by pinning his pantleg with a chopstick.

Pressed further, the guide explains the curse of Yangji Inn, recounting past deaths and supernatural rumors: (A drunk guest disappeared and was later found dead in the inn’s well, A man died while with a prostitute at the inn, Another guest drowned at a bathhouse after dining at the inn, A fourth guest died elsewhere but had purchased drinks at Yangji Inn beforehand)

The guide claims the inn is cursed, with guests hearing ghostly cries at night and suffering financial misfortune after leaving.

Skeptical but intrigued, Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao dismiss the rumors as exaggerated and prepare to stay at Yangji Inn.

Qiao Xian throws the guide his fee, and he hastily flees, determined not to stay in the inn or consume anything from it.

During dinner, Feng Xiao complains about the cleanliness of the bowls and refuses to eat from them.

In his female disguise, Feng Xiao loudly teases Cui Buqu, playing the role of a demanding and flirtatious wife.

Feng Xiao’s over-the-top antics, including suggestive comments about their "marriage," attract the attention and amusement of nearby diners.

Annoyed by Feng Xiao’s behavior, Cui Buqu orders Qiao Xian to buy Feng Xiao a new bowl, chopsticks, and spoon to silence his complaints.

Feng Xiao smugly accepts the victory, continuing to play his role with flair while Qiao Xian suppresses her frustration.

Feng Xiao finally quiets down after receiving a new bowl, spoon, chopsticks, and clean bedding, purchased at Cui Buqu's expense.

Qiao Xian suggests Feng Xiao sleep on a rope hammock for cleanliness, subtly ensuring Cui Buqu gets a peaceful night’s rest, but Feng Xiao declines.

Cui Buqu enjoys a lamb pastry and soup while Qiao Xian updates him about the power dynamics in Qiemo: (Xing Mao (descendant of Shanshan royalty) and Duan Qihu (former bandit-turned-merchant) were rivals but seem to have reconciled under County Magistrate Gao Yi’s mediation, Xing Mao’s mother’s upcoming sixtieth birthday banquet, in five days, is a much-anticipated event in the city.)

Feng Xiao returns from meeting with his contacts, bringing roast chicken and informing them that Yuxiu, an advisor to the Prince of Jin, is staying at the same inn, three rooms away.

Cui Buqu deduces that Yuxiu’s presence in Qiemo suggests ulterior motives related to his secretive goals in the Western Regions, though his exact purpose remains unclear.

Feng Xiao, sharing a bed with Cui Buqu, repeatedly disturbs him throughout the night with trivial complaints about noise and space.

Their rest is interrupted by a fire outside. The blaze consumes a building nearby, and the commotion prevents Cui Buqu from sleeping properly.

The next morning, Feng Xiao fabricates a story implying Cui Buqu kept him awake with "torments," amusing and scandalizing their fellow diners.

Cui Buqu retaliates by loudly accusing Feng Xiao (in his female guise) of brazen infidelity, painting a vivid and humiliating picture for the onlookers.

The playful squabble draws attention, frustrating Qiao Xian and Jinlian, who move to another table to avoid the spectacle.

Constables enter the inn, looking for "Ye Yong" (Cui Buqu’s alias). They accuse him of arson and murder after the guide Cheng Cheng is found dead in the fire.

Feng Xiao steps in to defend Cui Buqu, questioning the legitimacy of the arrest, but the constables insist on taking Cui Buqu into custody, citing his prior confrontation with the guide as evidence.

Gao Yi, the magistrate of Qiemo, has an unusual obsession with divination and regrets skipping it the morning the constables return with Cui Buqu’s group.

The constables bring the entire group to Gao Yi’s office, recognizing their strength and treating them respectfully, though under suspicion for arson and murder.

Qiao Xian confronts Gao Yi, explaining that while they argued with Cheng Cheng earlier, they had resolved the dispute and were at the inn all night.

Xing Mao’s subordinate, a sumptuously dressed man, insists Cui Buqu’s group is guilty, while Jinlian rebukes him with contempt.

Gao Yi begins to suspect the group’s claims, noting their composed demeanor and unwillingness to be cowed.

Feng Xiao intervenes, claiming Cui Buqu is the nephew of the king of Kucha, traveling incognito.

Cui Buqu presents a convincing golden seal with inscriptions in Kuchean and Han characters, further solidifying their fabricated identity.

Gao Yi softens toward the group, but Xing Mao’s subordinate remains unconvinced, claiming they might be accomplices of Duan Qihu.

Gao Yi reveals that, aside from Cheng Cheng, another victim of the fire was Li Fei, a trusted subordinate of Xing Mao who managed a pawnshop and brought significant revenue to Xing Mao’s faction.

Xing Mao’s man suspects Cui Buqu’s group was hired by Duan Qihu to carry out the murders and frame outsiders for the crime.

Duan Qihu’s representative arrives, contrasting sharply with Xing Mao’s subordinate in appearance and demeanor, and the two engage in a heated argument, turning the office into a verbal battleground.

Tired of the squabbling, Cui Buqu suggests examining the corpses for clues to clear their names.

Xing Mao’s man mocks the idea, doubting their expertise, but Cui Buqu counters by claiming Feng Xiao (as his “wife”) has learned the art of autopsy from her father, a professional coroner.

Feng Xiao realizes this means he will have to touch the corpses as part of his role, turning visibly green with discomfort.

Gao Yi agrees to the autopsy proposal, ending the bickering and giving the group an opportunity to prove their innocence.

The fat and skinny subordinates of Xing Mao and Duan Qihu remain skeptical of Cui Buqu’s claim to be the king of Kucha’s nephew, as Qiemo’s isolated position minimizes external influence.

Gao Yi, reluctant to enter the morgue, has the burned corpses of Cheng Cheng and Li Fei brought to the front courtyard for examination.

Cui Buqu begins the autopsy, noting the corpses’ severe burns but unflinchingly examining them despite the unpleasant conditions.

Feng Xiao refuses to participate, citing a fabricated pregnancy, but is forced to help after Cui Buqu manipulates him by referencing his earlier lies.

Cui Buqu discovers that neither victim had injuries to the chest or back and notes their mouths and noses lack ash, indicating they were murdered before being burned.

Feng Xiao identifies a crack along the cervical vertebrae in one corpse, consistent with a highly skilled martial artist targeting vital points.

Gao Yi confirms their findings with the coroner, which shifts the investigation from accidental death to premeditated murder.

The fat subordinate accuses Duan Qihu of orchestrating the murders, while the skinny subordinate dismisses the claim, resulting in a heated argument.

Gao Yi struggles to maintain order and agrees to investigate further while requesting Cui Buqu’s group remain in the city.

Cui Buqu subtly critiques Gao Yi’s inability to control the situation, hinting at Qiemo’s potential under Great Sui’s rule.

Gao Yi reveals Duan Qihu’s rise from highwayman to local power, emphasizing his charisma, loyalty from subordinates, and formidable martial arts.

With no clear motive or suspects beyond the fractured spines, the case remains unresolved, though Cui Buqu’s group is no longer under direct suspicion.

Feng Xiao scrubs his hands obsessively after the autopsy and insists on buying perfume sachets to mask any lingering smell, irritating Qiao Xian and amusing Jinlian.

Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao decide to take a stroll, splitting off from the group and heading to a cosmetics shop.

In a narrow alley, they unexpectedly encounter Yuxiu, accompanied by an unknown figure. Recognizing the potential danger of being identified, Feng Xiao improvises a distraction.

Feng Xiao dramatically pulls Cui Buqu into an embrace, loosening his collar and loudly pretending they are engaged in an intimate moment, leaving Cui Buqu speechless at his antics.

Feng Xiao pulls Cui Buqu into an embrace in an alley to prevent Yuxiu from recognizing them.

Cui Buqu takes the act further, pretending to passionately kiss Feng Xiao, leaving Feng Xiao horrified due to Cui Buqu’s earlier contact with corpses.

Yuxiu, disgusted by the scene, quickly leaves the alley without noticing anything suspicious.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu follow Yuxiu and his companion, who deliberately choose a crowded path and sit at a roadside noodle stall for a conversation.

To avoid detection, Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu observe them from a distance in a nearby teahouse, where Cui Buqu uses lip-reading to catch parts of their conversation.

Cui Buqu deciphers two key phrases from Yuxiu: "Will Duan Qihu attend the banquet?" and "Do as we discussed."

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu deduce that Yuxiu and his companion are plotting against Duan Qihu, likely at Xing Mao's mother's upcoming birthday banquet.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu tail Yuxiu's companion, who eventually leads them to his home. The man is revealed to be Peng Xiang, Xing Mao's third steward, responsible for managing the birthday banquet.

Cui Buqu investigates further using the Zuoyue Bureau's local base and confirms Peng Xiang’s role, solidifying suspicions of a plot targeting Duan Qihu.

Feng Xiao returns with an invitation to Xing Mao’s mother’s birthday banquet, delivered to their inn shortly after Cui Buqu’s identity as Kucha's "nephew" was revealed.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu discuss the potential dangers and opportunities at the banquet, with Feng Xiao insisting on attending despite Cui Buqu’s subtle objections.

Their conversation, full of thinly veiled barbs about their fabricated "marriage," is overheard by Qiao Xian, who arrives at the door just as Cui Buqu remarks, "The only thing you’re good for is producing children," leaving her completely bewildered.

In the days leading up to Xing Mao's mother's birthday banquet, the city of Qiemo is lavishly decorated with red lanterns and silk ribbons, showcasing Xing Mao’s immense wealth and influence.

Despite their modest appearance and lack of servants, Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao arrive at the banquet with confidence, carrying only a small gift box.

At the gate, the third steward and his subordinates scrutinize the gift, a simple dagger, until Feng Xiao demonstrates its sharpness by slicing through an attendant’s clothes, leaving him humiliated and naked.

The third steward, eager to smooth things over, personally escorts Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao to their seats in the courtyard, though they are not granted seats in the inner hall reserved for Xing Mao’s closest associates.

The inner hall contains eight prominent guests, including Duan Qihu and Gao Yi, seated beside Xing Mao and his mother. Cui Buqu notes that their current position in the courtyard makes it difficult to act if needed.

Feng Xiao reveals the dagger’s impressive appearance was enhanced by his internal energy and a trick with snow, while teasing Cui Buqu about his "stingy" spending habits and sickly appearance.

Their banter is interrupted by Chen Ji, the young master of the Xianlin Sect, who introduces himself to Feng Xiao, mistaking him for a woman and showing immediate interest.

Cui Buqu recalls Chen Ji’s reputation as an arrogant and willful martial artist of average skill, whose high status comes from being the son of the Xianlin Sect’s leader.

Spotting Duan Qihu in the inner hall, Cui Buqu begins formulating a plan to approach him and realizes Chen Ji’s infatuation with Feng Xiao could be a useful opportunity.

Feng Xiao, sensing Cui Buqu’s intent, plays along by charming Chen Ji while smirking at Cui Buqu.

Cui Buqu dramatically throws the fruit platter on their table to the ground, shattering it and creating a loud commotion. The entire banquet, including Xing Mao and Duan Qihu, turns their attention toward the scene.

Cui Buqu creates a scene at the banquet by accusing Chen Ji of disrespecting his "wife" Feng Xiao and threatening him with Kucha's royal authority, escalating tensions dramatically.

Xing Mao’s steward tries to mediate, but Cui Buqu seizes the opportunity to demand seats in the inner hall, maneuvering himself and Feng Xiao closer to Duan Qihu.

Once seated beside Duan Qihu, Cui Buqu ingratiates himself with casual conversation about Kucha, gaining credibility through careful lies and truths about the Kuchean royal family.

As wine is served, Cui Buqu points out that Duan Qihu’s wine jar is different from his, stirring suspicion. When Duan Qihu offers to exchange cups, Cui Buqu insists the maid who poured the wine drink it first.

The maid hesitates and, under pressure, attempts to assassinate Duan Qihu with a concealed dagger. Duan Qihu evades and deflects the attack, causing the dagger to fatally stab the maid herself.

Xing Mao accuses Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao of sabotaging the banquet, but Cui Buqu counters by accusing Xing Mao’s third steward of conspiring with an outsider to assassinate Duan Qihu.

Tensions rise as Xing Mao considers silencing Duan Qihu to prevent future retaliation, while his guards encircle the hall.

Feng Xiao demonstrates his martial prowess by subduing Xing Mao’s head steward and defeating his second steward with ease, warning Xing Mao against further aggression.

Cui Buqu warns Xing Mao of the consequences of war with Duan Qihu’s family, urging him to uncover the real traitor instead. Xing Mao reluctantly orders the third steward, Peng Xiang, brought in.

Moments later, the head steward returns, pale and shaken, reporting that Peng Xiang has hanged himself to avoid punishment, complicating matters further.

The third steward Peng Xiang is found dead in the woodshed, apparently hanged. Cui Buqu immediately suspects foul play, doubting that Peng Xiang, a martial artist, would kill himself in such a way.

Peng Xiang's body shows evidence of a posthumous wound on his arm and even ligature marks around his neck, suggesting he was strangled before being hanged to stage a suicide.

Blood-written phrases in Peng Xiang's palms—"Pay blood for blood" and "Heaven’s law spares none"—further complicate the mystery. Cui Buqu concludes the phrases were likely planted by the killer to mislead.

Duan Qihu accuses Xing Mao of orchestrating the murder to cover up the failed assassination attempt at the banquet. Xing Mao denies this and points to an external instigator aiming to benefit from their conflict.

Magistrate Gao Yi proposes bringing in a coroner, but Cui Buqu demonstrates his forensic expertise, further proving that Peng Xiang was murdered.

Cui Buqu notes the murder’s timing coincided with the banquet’s busiest hours, suggesting the killer used the commotion as cover. Feng Xiao observes that the killer must be much stronger than Peng Xiang.

Security at the Xing residence is revealed to be tightly controlled, making it unlikely an outsider could enter without being noticed. The focus turns to the guests at the banquet.

A check of the guest list reveals that a monk named Zhong Haomiao from Qiyue Monastery was supposed to attend on behalf of his abbot. However, Zhong Haomiao sent his “friend” in his place.

The guest, Yan Xuexing, is identified as a disciple of Linchuan Academy, a prestigious sect in Southern Chen. This revelation unsettles Duan Qihu, whose subtle reaction does not escape Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao.

Suspicious of Duan Qihu’s connection to Yan Xuexing, Feng Xiao communicates his thoughts to Cui Buqu through physical gestures, turning their silent exchange into a minor spectacle.

Chen Ji, still holding a grudge against Cui Buqu for earlier insults, takes offense at their antics, drawing attention to them once more. Feng Xiao shamelessly plays into his role as the troublemaking "wife," further provoking Cui Buqu.

With tensions escalating, Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao note that multiple threads of the mystery—Peng Xiang’s murder, Yan Xuexing’s sudden disappearance, and Duan Qihu’s reaction—are likely interconnected, setting the stage for further revelations.

Zhong Haomiao insists that Yan Xuexing, his guest and a disciple of Linchuan Academy, could not have committed any heinous crimes. However, Yan Xuexing’s whereabouts remain unknown, and he might have left Qiemo.

Xing Mao, overwhelmed by the disastrous banquet and the maid’s failed assassination attempt, apologizes to Duan Qihu and Gao Yi for the chaos. He even offers Duan Qihu treasures as compensation, but Duan Qihu refuses and leaves, deeply suspicious of Xing Mao’s intentions.

As Duan Qihu departs, Cui Buqu stops him and asks if he knows Yuxiu or has a grudge against Yan Xuexing. Duan Qihu denies any connection to Yuxiu and claims not to know Yan Xuexing, though his earlier reaction suggests otherwise.

Xing Mao is furious at the situation. Not only has his banquet ended in disgrace, but he now fears that Duan Qihu might retaliate against him, escalating their conflict.

As Xing Mao stews in frustration, a mysterious visitor arrives with a note. Despite his initial reluctance, Xing Mao agrees to meet the man.

The visitor, who is not a Göktürk but possesses immense martial arts skill, reveals shocking information: Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao are not who they claim to be. Instead, they are the leaders of the Zuoyue Bureau and Jiejian Bureau, respectively, and likely sent by the Sui emperor to investigate Qiemo.

The visitor warns Xing Mao that the emperor of Sui may soon turn his attention to Qiemo. He implies that Xing Mao’s only chance to maintain power is to collaborate with him, hinting at an alliance against the imperial court.

Meanwhile, Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu return to their inn to debrief. Cui Buqu compiles a list of all the key names and events, circling Yuxiu’s name as the likely central figure.

Feng Xiao suggests that the events might involve two separate plots: one involving Yuxiu and the third steward’s attempt to kill Duan Qihu, and another concerning the deaths of Cheng Cheng, Li Fei, and the third steward.

Cui Buqu theorizes that the growing tensions between Duan Qihu and Xing Mao could lead to open conflict. He hints at a grander scheme to take advantage of the situation, proposing unifying Qiemo under imperial control and eliminating both Xing Mao’s and Duan Qihu’s influence.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu exchange witty barbs, with Feng Xiao mockingly insisting on being called “Daddy” and Cui Buqu deflecting with sarcastic humor, solidifying their chaotic yet effective partnership.

Qiemo, surrounded by the vast Gobi Desert, is a vital oasis waypoint but has never been fully under imperial control. Gao Yi, the magistrate sent to govern it, is incompetent and has let Xing Mao and Duan Qihu dominate the city.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu are on their way to Suyab to negotiate with Apa Khagan, but Cui Buqu decides to orchestrate a plan to bring Qiemo under Sui rule by exploiting the ongoing tensions between Xing Mao and Duan Qihu.

Cui Buqu outlines his strategy: He aims to sow discord between Xing Mao and Duan Qihu, waiting for their conflict to weaken both parties. Gao Yi will be persuaded to cooperate, and a military force from Liugong City will be summoned to subdue them.

Feng Xiao hesitates but is intrigued by the ambitious plan. Cui Buqu offers his personal seal as collateral for Feng Xiao’s cooperation and assures him that they’ll split the credit for the achievement.

Cui Buqu proposes that Qiao Xian, accompanied by one of Feng Xiao’s agents, will use Feng Xiao’s military tally to mobilize 1,000 elite soldiers from Liugong City. Feng Xiao reluctantly agrees to this compromise.

Cui Buqu outlines three potential plans for dealing with Gao Yi: (Plan C: Threaten Gao Yi directly, Plan B: Use incense of helplessness to manipulate both Xing Mao and Duan Qihu, Plan A: A subtle and manipulative strategy to exploit Gao Yi’s weaknesses.)

Feng Xiao remains skeptical but agrees to cooperate. He admires Cui Buqu’s resourcefulness and enjoys the challenge of working with someone so clever.

Late at night, Feng Xiao is woken by eerie cries of a woman begging for help near the inn’s dry well. Though the voice seems ghostly, Feng Xiao suspects mischief.

Annoyed by the disturbance, Feng Xiao decides to investigate but first tries to wake Cui Buqu, who refuses to get up and hides under the blanket.

Undeterred, Feng Xiao flings water from his basin toward the well and mockingly calls out in a falsetto voice, challenging the supposed ghost.

Late at night, eerie cries for help disturb the peace at the inn, waking guests and unnerving everyone.

Feng Xiao, annoyed by the noise, loudly mocks the supposed ghost, startling even the specter into silence.

Cui Buqu, also woken, is uncharacteristically disoriented due to his poor health and lack of sleep, making him an easy target for Feng Xiao’s teasing.

They discuss the strange happenings, including the dry well where bones were found long ago, and suspect a possible connection between the well, Cheng Cheng, Li Fei, the third steward, and Duan Qihu.

Feng Xiao mentions that Yuxiu’s room is now empty, raising suspicions about Yuxiu’s mysterious departure and his potential involvement in the unfolding events.

The atmosphere in Qiemo grows more foreboding as Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao prepare to investigate further.

Elsewhere, Duan Qihu, deeply unsettled by the recent banquet incident, breaks his abstinence from alcohol to calm his nerves.

His favorite concubine enters with sugar-braised pears but is met with an unusually hostile reaction. Startled by her presence, Duan Qihu kicks her away violently, leaving her injured and unconscious.

Servants and Lady Duan intervene, but Duan Qihu dismisses them all, opting to walk alone in his garden to regain his composure.

While reflecting on the banquet and the deaths of Xing Mao’s steward and the mysterious Yan Xuexing, Duan Qihu hears a ghostly, chilling voice calling his name.

Though he roars in defiance, the servants accompanying him hear nothing, leaving him increasingly paranoid and fearful of the supernatural.

Duan Qihu hears eerie, wailing voices calling his name and claiming he owes a life, but only he can hear them.

Convinced someone is playing tricks, he uses his qinggong to investigate but finds no one.

The voices repeat “twenty years,” triggering Duan Qihu’s memories of his rise to power after a major raid two decades ago.

Frustrated and angry, Duan Qihu kills his two servants with leaves thrown as projectiles, believing them to be spies or part of the ruse.

He orders the bodies cleaned up and returns to his quarters, unsettled but maintaining his defiant attitude.

His wife tries to console him, recounting how twenty years ago he returned home triumphant after a raid, but Duan Qihu grows irritable and dismisses her, troubled by her mention of “retribution.”

That night, as he tries to sleep, the ghostly voice returns, urging him to “pay blood with blood.”

Following the voice, Duan Qihu discovers one of the servants he killed earlier lying near the garden pond despite ordering their disposal.

The oppressive atmosphere intensifies, and Duan Qihu feels a chilling gaze on him but sees no one. He roars in defiance, demanding the entity show itself.

The next morning at the Qiemo county office, Magistrate Gao Yi’s nerves are already frayed after a restless night. He drops and breaks his tea, panicking over his perceived bad luck.

A servant announces the arrival of guests claiming to be the nephew of the king of Kucha. Gao Yi, fearing omens, agrees to meet them.

Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao arrive, with Cui Buqu ominously declaring that Gao Yi’s darkened brows signify he has been tainted by negative energy.

Gao Yi is startled when Cui Buqu declares he is tainted with negative energy, sparking the magistrate’s fear and superstition.

Cui Buqu explains that they, too, encountered the ghost, describing its wails of injustice and hinting at a connection to Duan Qihu.

Gao Yi reveals he saw a ghost near his bed the previous night, dressed in white with unbound hair, and heard it begging for vengeance.

Feng Xiao exaggerates the danger, suggesting the ghost might even disturb their sleep, further unnerving Gao Yi.

Cui Buqu warns of the “thousand weeping ghosts,” a catastrophic accumulation of resentment that could bring misfortune to the city and ruin to officials like Gao Yi.

Cui Buqu encourages Gao Yi to investigate the dry well at the inn, where the hauntings originated, suggesting that resolving the case could exorcise the ghost’s resentment.

Cui Buqu presents the idea of turning the investigation into an opportunity to eliminate Duan Qihu and Xing Mao, securing the city for the imperial court and potentially earning Gao Yi a promotion.

Gao Yi hesitates, expressing doubt about his ability to challenge such powerful figures and questioning Cui Buqu’s true identity.

Cui Buqu reveals his true rank as an imperial censor and accuses Xing Mao of hoarding armor and supplies, suggesting his ambitions for rebellion.

Feng Xiao demonstrates his martial prowess by pulverizing a table into dust, adding weight to their claims and intimidating Gao Yi.

Cui Buqu accuses Gao Yi of ignoring threats from Xing Mao and Duan Qihu, forcing the magistrate to tacitly approve their plans by feigning illness and closing his doors to guests.

After leaving the office, Feng Xiao praises Cui Buqu’s strategic foresight, learning that Cui had prepared for Gao Yi’s manipulation months in advance.

Cui Buqu predicts that the combination of heightened ghost rumors and their provocations will push Xing Mao into making his move against Duan Qihu.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu plan to escalate Gao Yi’s fear further by ensuring he has another ghostly encounter that night.

Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao intensify rumors about hauntings, linking them to an old injustice, to spread fear and chaos in Qiemo. They deploy spies to circulate the rumors across the city, ensuring that the incidents gain maximum attention.

At the Yangji Inn, Cui Buqu bribes the innkeeper to investigate the supposedly haunted dry well. He ensures the discovery of bones, which he had earlier arranged to be planted there. This manipulates public opinion, convincing the onlookers that the ghostly events are real and tied to an ancient injustice.

News spreads rapidly about the discovery of bones in the dry well. Crowds gather to witness the spectacle, adding fuel to the public frenzy. The rumors link the hauntings to Duan Qihu and raise suspicions of foul play from twenty years ago.

Duan Qihu receives a letter from Magistrate Gao Yi, crafted under Cui Buqu’s direction. The letter demands Duan Qihu provide an explanation for the ghostly events and the alleged injustice. This agitates Duan Qihu, as it threatens his position and dredges up a dark incident from his past.

Duan Qihu’s steward, Lin, advises caution, but Duan Qihu suspects that Xing Mao is behind the hauntings, using them as a pretext to weaken and eliminate him. This paranoia drives Duan Qihu to take decisive action.

Duan Qihu resolves to strike first, believing Xing Mao will exploit the situation further. He orders fifty of his elite guards to attack the Xing residence that night. He leaves two of his most trusted guards, Bing and Ding, to protect him at home, confident in his own martial abilities.

At the Xing residence, Xing Mao is in high spirits, convinced that Duan Qihu is vulnerable and poised for defeat. He discusses his plans with his close advisors, revealing that he expects to seize complete control of Qiemo by eliminating Duan Qihu.

Steward Lin, who has secretly allied with Xing Mao, betrays Duan Qihu. He confirms Duan’s decision to send most of his guards away and shares details of the planned attack, giving Xing Mao an advantage.

Xing Mao plans to capitalize on Duan Qihu’s weakened defenses, attacking the Duan residence while Duan’s forces are engaged elsewhere. He sees this as his opportunity to assert dominance over the entire city.

A white-clad monk, likely a mysterious and powerful figure allied with Xing Mao, makes an ominous proclamation, suggesting that after the night’s events, Qiemo will be renamed "Xing." This reinforces Xing Mao’s ambition to declare himself the ruler of Qiemo.

Both factions prepare for confrontation, unaware that their actions are being carefully orchestrated by Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao, who are pushing them toward mutual destruction for the sake of the Sui court’s interests.

Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao, observing the rising tensions, strategize their next moves to ensure the conflict escalates in their favor, setting the stage for a dramatic and decisive clash between the two factions.

The night was pitch dark, with no moon or stars, and an oppressive heat hung over Qiemo.

Duan Qihu sat alone in the main hall of his heavily guarded residence, anxiously awaiting updates on the surprise attack he had ordered against Xing Mao and bracing for the potential return of the "vengeful ghost."

A chilling wind suddenly blew into the residence, extinguishing the lanterns and plunging the place into darkness. Simultaneously, a scream from the northwest courtyard broke the tense silence.

Duan Qihu rushed toward the source of the scream, finding his daughter lying lifeless on the ground, her throat slashed. His wife fainted upon seeing the scene.

The Duan residence fell into chaos as guards searched for the intruder, but no one could see or catch the assailant. The ghostly wails of “Duan Qihu… Pay blood for blood…” spread panic among them.

Duan Qihu was attacked by a shadowy figure with overwhelming martial arts skills, suffering a grave wound and realizing his opponent was no ghost but a highly skilled human.

The assailant introduced himself as Yan Xuexing, revealing his intent to kill Duan Qihu and his family as vengeance for a monstrous crime committed twenty years ago.

Yan Xuexing denied any ties to Xing Mao and claimed responsibility for killing Peng Xiang and other associates of Duan Qihu involved in the same crime.

A woman in yellow, Bing Xian, appeared on the roof holding Duan Qihu’s precious jade bead. She crushed the priceless object into dust, further tormenting Duan Qihu.

Bing Xian revealed herself as a member of the Hehuan Sect and explained that she was assisting Yan Xuexing because he planned to join their sect after exacting his revenge.

Bing Xian recounted Yan Xuexing’s tragic backstory: (Twenty years ago, Yan and his sister were part of a merchant caravan ambushed by bandits led by Duan Qihu, The bandits massacred the entire group, sparing no one but the siblings, The sister hid her younger brother in a hunter’s cottage, but the hunter betrayed them, leading to her brutal gang rape and eventual death at the hands of Duan Qihu, his men, and a passing merchant forced to join the atrocity, Yan Xuexing escaped as a child, witnessing his sister’s suffering and death, and spent the next two decades honing his skills to take revenge.

Duan Qihu’s guilt deepened as he realized Yan Xuexing had already killed every other participant in the crime, including Cheng Cheng, Li Fei, Peng Xiang, and the hunter. He was the last one alive.

Yan Xuexing began targeting Duan Qihu’s family, promising to make him watch as his loved ones were slaughtered one by one. He grabbed Duan’s favorite concubine, ready to kill her.

Feng Xiao made a dramatic entrance, interrupting the attack and challenging Yan Xuexing. The two engaged in a fierce battle, showcasing exceptional martial arts skills.

Meanwhile, Cui Buqu entered the scene calmly and conversed with Bing Xian, exchanging familiar banter and revealing that they knew each other from prior encounters.

Bing Xian confirmed Yan Xuexing’s vendetta, explaining that his actions were motivated purely by personal revenge and had no ties to Linchuan Academy or Xing Mao.

Cui Buqu agreed that Duan Qihu deserved to die for his crimes but noted the systematic nature of Yan Xuexing’s vengeance, methodically eliminating all perpetrators over the years.

Duan Qihu realized too late that he was the last target of Yan Xuexing’s revenge, as all the others involved in the crime had already been killed.

The stage was set for a final confrontation between Feng Xiao, Yan Xuexing, Cui Buqu, and the remaining players in the conflict.

Feng Xiao and Yan Xuexing exchanged blows on the eaves of the courtyard, showcasing extraordinary martial arts skills. Yan Xuexing realized Feng Xiao was stronger and became wary.

Yan Xuexing tried to determine Feng Xiao’s identity, but Feng Xiao responded evasively, maintaining his mysterious demeanor.

Duan Qihu, desperate to save his life, claimed to have knowledge about the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai and their secrets, using this as leverage to bargain for protection.

Duan revealed that the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai were not just an assassination organization but a structured group of thirteen directors, each with distinct roles and aliases based on numbers.

Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao recognized the significance of this information, as it aligned with prior investigations involving "Yi-xiansheng" (One). They decided to keep Duan alive to learn more.

Yan Xuexing, undeterred, vowed to kill Duan and his entire family to avenge his sister, rejecting Feng Xiao’s offer to delay his revenge.

Yan Xuexing’s tragic backstory resurfaced as he declared his actions justified, citing Duan Qihu’s crimes and the immense suffering inflicted on his family.

Yan attempted to kill Duan Qihu directly but was intercepted by Feng Xiao, leading to a fierce battle. Bing Xian joined the fray, aiding Yan, but Feng Xiao held his ground despite facing both opponents.

Duan Qihu tried to flee amidst the chaos but was stopped by Cui Buqu, who offered to protect him in exchange for more details about the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai.

Duan admitted he didn’t know Yuxiu and had only limited knowledge of the organization. He revealed that as Shi’er-xiansheng (Twelfth Gentleman), he only knew Shiyi-xiansheng (Eleventh Gentleman) and Shisan-xiansheng (Thirteenth Gentleman).

Shiyi-xiansheng was a monk named Yuheng, and Shisan-xiansheng was a woman named Feng Xiaolian. Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao were shocked to learn Feng Xiaolian’s name.

Feng Xiaolian, known as Gao Wei’s beloved concubine and a peerless beauty, was believed to have died in a harem conflict. Her association with the Thirteen Floors implied she had faked her death and was alive.

The revelation tied the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai to key figures across different regions and contexts, further deepening the conspiracy surrounding them.

The battle between Feng Xiao, Yan Xuexing, and Bing Xian continued, but the scene left the Duan family in ruins, with Duan Qihu at the mercy of Cui Buqu and his secrets on the verge of exposure.

Duan Qihu recounted how he had joined the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai years ago through Yuheng, the eleventh director. Yuheng offered Duan assistance to consolidate power in Qiemo, helping him eliminate rivals and build his wealth.

Yuheng had initially been instrumental in Duan’s rise to power, but later demanded Duan overthrow Xing Mao and Magistrate Gao Yi to seize control of Qiemo. Duan, fearing the Sui dynasty and content with his life, refused.

Duan revealed that Feng Xiaolian, a famous beauty believed to have died in harem conflicts, was actually Shisan-xiansheng (Thirteenth Gentleman) of the Thirteen Floors.

Duan Qihu tried to escape during the chaos but was shot with an arrow by an unseen assailant. Xing Mao, along with Yuheng and other experts, entered the courtyard to seize control.

Yuheng, a monk from the Thirteen Floors, revealed himself as a key figure backing Xing Mao. He dismissed Duan Qihu’s significance and called for his death, while Xing Mao gloated about his imminent victory.

Yan Xuexing and Feng Xiao formed an uneasy alliance to protect Duan Qihu for their own reasons—Yan to settle his personal revenge, and Feng and Cui to extract more information about the Thirteen Floors.

Xing Mao betrayed Duan’s trusted subordinate Lin Feng, who had informed Xing Mao of Duan’s plans, ensuring Xing’s forces would outmaneuver Duan’s loyal guards.

The courtyard erupted into a chaotic battle between Xing Mao’s jianghu experts and Feng Xiao, Yan Xuexing, and Bing Xian. The experts included: (Yue Xiafeng (a fan-wielding scholar skilled at close range), Wang Hong (the Nameless Sword, who used a poisoned weapon and unconventional techniques), Hu Yun (a saber-wielding wealthy martial artist with a golden blade), Pei Yuan (known as Cloudcatcher, a disciple of Shaolin Temple skilled in powerful grappling techniques), Bai Bi (the Moonwater Guanyin, who used deadly silver-gold threads).

Cui Buqu analyzed each enemy’s weakness aloud, helping Yan and Bing defeat them one by one. Bing Xian exploited Cui’s information to injure several enemies, including Yue Xiafeng.

Feng Xiao engaged multiple opponents at once, showcasing his superior martial skills, and effortlessly neutralized Bai Bi’s silken threads.

Yuheng, observing the battle, swiftly captured Cui Buqu as a hostage. He threatened Feng Xiao, offering an ultimatum: save Cui Buqu’s life or kill Xing Mao.

Xing Mao, now in Feng Xiao’s grasp, panicked and begged Yuheng for protection, clearly fearing betrayal as the battle descended into chaos.

Yuheng, revealed to know the identities of Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu, taunted them as imperial agents meddling in Qiemo’s affairs and demanded that Feng Xiao release Xing Mao in exchange for Cui Buqu’s life. Yuheng confirmed he had inside knowledge about the Jiejian and Zuoyue Bureaus, though the source remained unclear.

Feng Xiao maintained his calm, claiming he didn’t care about Cui Buqu’s fate, and stabbed Xing Mao twice to demonstrate his indifference. This move was an illusion orchestrated to confuse Yuheng, while Cui Buqu had already been freed without Yuheng realizing it.

As Yuheng tightened his grip, he realized too late that he’d been caught in an illusion. He released Cui Buqu, who had already moved to safety with Bing Xian’s help. Bing Xian claimed she was repaying a debt to Cui Buqu for his earlier assistance, though her motives remained ambiguous.

Amid the chaos, Duan Qihu attempted to flee, but Yan Xuexing pursued him. Before Yan could catch him, the ground beneath opened into a hidden trapdoor, and both vanished into darkness.

Yuheng and Xing Mao regrouped their forces, preparing to execute Cui Buqu, Feng Xiao, and Bing Xian. Xing Mao called for his archers to attack, but the archers were discovered to have been silently replaced by soldiers loyal to the imperial court, led by Qiao Xian, who had arrived with reinforcements.

Feng Xiao demonstrated his martial prowess by engaging and defeating multiple enemies, including Yuheng, Yue Xiafeng, and Hu Yun, breaking their weapons and incapacitating them. Feng Xiao fought four-on-one, using his internal energy to deflect and counter attacks, showcasing his unrivaled skill.

Xing Mao, realizing his forces were defeated and his victory turned to ruin, ordered the archers to fire—only to discover the archers were no longer his men. Qiao Xian revealed herself, having leveraged her commander’s tally to bring an army from Liugong City, ensuring the imperial court’s ultimate dominance in Qiemo.

As Feng Xiao relished his victory, he realized Cui Buqu and Bing Xian had disappeared during the chaos, leaving him to ponder their next moves.

Duan Qihu’s secret escape passage was unexpectedly triggered by a mechanism in the rear courtyard railing, an unusual location for such an entrance.

Cui Buqu and Bing Xian jumped into the tunnel, which sloped steeply downward and was constructed with smooth walls and floors, indicating Duan Qihu had spared no expense on its creation.

As Cui slid down, he abruptly fell into thin air but was caught mid-fall by Bing Xian, preventing a potentially dangerous tumble.

They deduced that Yan Xuexing and Duan Qihu had also fallen into the tunnel but couldn’t have gone far, as the surrounding area was eerily silent.

The tunnel was too narrow to walk side-by-side, leading to a discussion of positioning. Cui Buqu offered to take the lead but eventually let Bing Xian lead the way.

Bing Xian lit a nearly spent candlestick, shedding dim light on the chamber they had fallen into. The room had smooth walls but no furnishings or other items, raising questions about its purpose.

On closer inspection, Cui Buqu identified faint bloodstains on the ground, confirming that someone, likely Duan Qihu, had been injured and dragged away.

Tracing the bloodstains, they found evidence leading to a specific corner of the chamber, suggesting the existence of another hidden mechanism.

Bing Xian triggered a mechanism by accident, causing the ground beneath Cui Buqu to give way, and he fell into another chamber below.

Cui Buqu’s landing was harsh, leaving him in pain, and he was immediately confronted by a ferocious beast lurking in the darkness.

As the beast charged at him, Cui Buqu braced for the worst, believing his end was near.

At the last moment, an unknown individual intervened, yanking Cui Buqu to safety and engaging the beast in combat.

In the intense battle, the mysterious savior demonstrated exceptional martial skill, ultimately killing the beast by slashing its belly open with a sword.

Once the danger was over, Cui Buqu, still disoriented from the fall, managed to ask his rescuer for his name.

The savior identified himself as Xiao Lü, explaining the characters of his name—Xiao with the "Cao radical" and Lü meaning “stumbling forward.”

Cui Buqu recognized the name as belonging to someone of great fame, adding to the intrigue of why such prominent figures were appearing at the Duan residence that night.

The scene left Cui Buqu questioning the true significance of Duan Qihu’s hideout and the events unfolding around them.

Xiao Lü introduced himself, explaining his nickname, Songxue, was a playful alias.

Cui Buqu recognized Xiao Lü as a highly skilled swordsman and calligrapher from the Southern dynasty, but one whose career as a ninth-rank official was considered a failure.

Xiao Lü revealed he resigned his position to save someone, explaining his presence in Qiemo.

The two searched for an exit from the underground chamber, suspecting there were multiple entrances.

Cui Buqu discovered a loose brick, triggering a stone door to open and revealing another chamber filled with silk veils, intoxicating aromas, and moaning women.

The chamber beyond was Duan Qihu's secret den, where drugged and imprisoned women were kept, chained to beds and guarded by a tiger.

Xiao Lü recognized one of the women, Mei-niang, and revived her with his true qi, only for her to break down in tears upon seeing him.

Cui Buqu deduced the women were likely from good families, kidnapped or tricked into captivity, and subjected to unspeakable abuse.

Cui Buqu destroyed incense burners in the room to clear the air, while Xiao Lü freed the chained women but agreed they could not take them all to safety at once.

Xiao Lü explained Mei-niang was the daughter of a family friend, reported missing after leaving her martial arts training. Her family had sent him to search for her.

Both men resumed searching for an exit but accidentally triggered a water trap by pressing only one sunken tile, causing the chamber to begin flooding.

Acting quickly, they found and pressed a second sunken tile simultaneously, stopping the water and revealing another hidden mechanism.

The newly discovered mechanism opened a stone gate leading to stairs and the true exit.

Xiao Lü carried Mei-niang on his back while Cui Buqu led the way up the stairs.

After a half-hour climb, they emerged outside and immediately heard Duan Qihu scream.

Cui Buqu arrived just in time to see Yan Xuexing plunge a sword into Duan Qihu’s gut, complicating his efforts to gather information about the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai.

Duan Qihu was severely tortured by Yan Xuexing, left with only his head and torso intact, and barely clinging to life.

Yan Xuexing, filled with disdain for Duan Qihu's cowardice and betrayal of his family, ensured Duan Qihu would suffer prolonged agony before dying.

Cui Buqu arrived and demanded to speak to Duan Qihu, but Yan Xuexing ignored him, attempting to leave with the mutilated man.

Xiao Lü intervened, forcing Yan Xuexing to release Duan Qihu by engaging him in a brief but intense sword fight, demonstrating exceptional skill.

Yan Xuexing, surprised by Xiao Lü’s talent and disfigured right hand, demanded to know his identity. Xiao Lü revealed his grudge against Duan Qihu and his intent to question him.

Yan Xuexing resumed the fight, displaying deadly precision and a murderous aura. Xiao Lü countered with elegant yet powerful swordplay, their skills evenly matched.

Cui Buqu used the opportunity to approach Duan Qihu, who was paralyzed with fear and unable to speak.

Before Cui Buqu could question him, Duan Qihu died of shock, leaving no answers about the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai.

Searching Duan Qihu’s body, Cui Buqu found a bloodstained letter and tucked it away for later examination.

Yan Xuexing, realizing Duan Qihu was dead, left without a word after his duel with Xiao Lü ended inconclusively.

Xiao Lü lamented the fate of Mei-niang and the other women, noting that Duan Qihu’s death could never atone for their suffering.

Cui Buqu questioned how Mei-niang, a disciple of Mount Huang Sect, ended up in captivity. Xiao Lü explained that Mei-niang had been abducted while traveling alone, her martial arts proving insufficient to protect her.

Xiao Lü revealed that Mei-niang’s journey took her from Jiangnan, through Daxing, and eventually to the border town where she was imprisoned. He expressed sorrow for the hardship she endured.

Cui Buqu reflected on the uncertain futures of Mei-niang and the other women, noting how societal judgment might further harm their lives despite being rescued.

Xiao Lü prepared to escort Mei-niang back to her family, requesting Cui Buqu’s full name. Cui Buqu revealed he had no courtesy name, family, or teacher due to his orphaned and solitary upbringing.

Both men acknowledged their defiance of fate: Xiao Lü with his physical disability and Cui Buqu with his lifelong illness.

Their conversation was interrupted by Feng Xiao, who mockingly scolded Cui Buqu for "abandoning old companions" while making new friends, announcing his arrival with playful disdain.

Feng Xiao appeared gracefully, clean and composed, in stark contrast to Cui Buqu and Xiao Lü’s disheveled state after escaping the underground chambers.

Cui Buqu introduced Xiao Lü to Feng Xiao, highlighting his exceptional martial skills, and provoked them into sparring.

Feng Xiao and Xiao Lü exchanged a powerful palm strike, impressing both with their skills before mutually ending the bout.

Xiao Lü departed to escort Mei-niang back to her family, leaving Cui Buqu to report the remaining captive women to local officials.

Feng Xiao teased Cui Buqu about his growing number of admirers, sarcastically suggesting that if he were a woman, he’d have to marry them all.

Cui Buqu demanded Feng Xiao’s coat, citing his soaked clothing and susceptibility to illness, forcing Feng Xiao to reluctantly part with it.

Cui Buqu shared a bloodstained letter found on Duan Qihu’s corpse. It contained cryptic poetic lines, which Cui Buqu promised to decode later.

Exhausted and ill, Cui Buqu fainted mid-conversation, falling to the ground when Feng Xiao hesitated to catch him due to his bloodstained clothes.

Bing Xian reappeared, offering her medical skills, but Feng Xiao dismissed her, choosing to carry Cui Buqu himself and muttering about the burden of his "favor."

Bing Xian departed in search of Yan Xuexing after leaving a message for Cui Buqu.

The political balance in Qiemo shifted drastically overnight: the Duan family collapsed, Xing Mao was captured, and Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao secured the city for the Sui dynasty without direct combat.

Gao Yi, the unexpected victor among the factions, eagerly sought Feng Xiao’s guidance, becoming an annoying yet loyal follower.

Cui Buqu awakened to find Feng Xiao lounging elegantly by the window, back to his original appearance after the events of the previous night revealed their true identities.

Feng Xiao teased Cui Buqu with the promise of both good and bad news, but Cui Buqu prioritized eating and drinking before discussing anything further.

Qiao Xian prepared bamboo and partridge soup for Cui Buqu, showcasing her skill in cooking and her care for him.

Cui Buqu questioned Feng Xiao about his soreness and injuries, suspecting Feng Xiao was responsible for the bump on his head.

Feng Xiao claimed Bing Xian attempted to abduct Cui Buqu after he fainted, requiring him to intervene and carry Cui Buqu back, drenched in water and blood.

Feng Xiao revealed the bad news: Yuheng, a key member of the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai, was dead, apparently by suicide, after being visited by a mysterious man who bribed the guards.

Cui Buqu deduced it wasn’t suicide but an orchestrated murder to silence Yuheng. Feng Xiao confirmed the assassin had already vanished without a trace.

Feng Xiao shared the good news after some negotiation: Yuheng confessed before his death, confirming the structure of the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai, with Feng Xiaolian ranked thirteenth, Duan Qihu twelfth, and Yuheng eleventh. The tenth rank was vacant.

Yuheng revealed that the sixth-ranked director of the Thirteen Floors was Go Un, the leader of Goguryeo’s Buyeo Sect, linking previous intelligence about infiltrations in the Central Plains.

Cui Buqu noted the terrifying implications of the higher-ranked directors’ capabilities, considering Go Un’s strength and position.

Yuheng explained his rise in the Thirteen Floors, which began when a mysterious figure trained him and orchestrated his rise as the abbot of Ronghua Temple, leading to speculation that Yuxiu might be involved.

Feng Xiao teased Cui Buqu about his receding hairline, breaking the tension, but Cui Buqu quickly dismissed the comment with a sharp retort.

Cui Buqu revealed the legendary zither Yuyin, a pair to the destroyed Raoliang, was in the possession of the Cui clan of Boling in Anping.

Feng Xiao questioned if Cui Buqu was related to the Cui clan of Boling, but Cui Buqu denied having any connection to their status, stating his lack of family or title.

Feng Xiao mockingly agreed, suggesting Cui Buqu’s exceptional abilities far surpassed the “mediocre talent” of the Cui clan, leaving Cui Buqu unimpressed by the remark.

Cui Buqu enjoyed a well-prepared bamboo and partridge soup made by Qiao Xian, reflecting her dedication to his care.

Cui Buqu questioned Feng Xiao about his injuries, including a suspicious bump on his head, implying Feng Xiao’s involvement.

Feng Xiao deflected blame, claiming he saved Cui Buqu from an attempted abduction by Bing Xian after he fainted.

Feng Xiao hinted at Cui Buqu’s possible ties to the prestigious Cui clan of Boling, speculating about his estrangement from them.

Cui Buqu brushed off Feng Xiao’s insinuations, focusing instead on decoding the cryptic letter they found on Duan Qihu.

Feng Xiao admitted to discarding the original letter, forcing Cui Buqu to rely on his replicated copy for analysis.

They collaboratively deciphered parts of the letter, linking the first line to Donghai Commandery and the third line to the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, associated with the Cowherd and Weaver Girl.

Cui Buqu speculated that the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai’s secrecy required a periodic gathering, which Duan Qihu was likely meant to attend before his death.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu agreed the second line might reveal the gathering’s location but lacked sufficient information to fully decode it.

Jinlian Khatun expressed concern about reaching Suyab in time for the eight tribes' meeting. Feng Xiao assured her they would depart the next day with a gift for the Khagan.

Feng Xiao found Cui Buqu asleep at his desk, exhausted from his recent ordeals and mental exertion.

Feng Xiao mischievously pinched Cui Buqu’s nose and covered his mouth, watching him struggle in his sleep.

Qiao Xian interrupted Feng Xiao’s antics with an angry outburst, startling both men.

Cui Buqu awoke groggily, momentarily shedding his usual commanding demeanor, prompting a rare softening from both Qiao Xian and Feng Xiao.

Qiao Xian shielded Cui Buqu from Feng Xiao, wary of his mischief, while Feng Xiao amused himself with thoughts of ways to tease her next.

Feng Xiao, Cui Buqu, Qiao Xian, and Jinlian departed Qiemo for Suyab, the Western Khaganate’s capital, expecting challenges but experiencing a surprisingly smooth journey.

As they neared Suyab, Jinlian admitted she found the lack of interference from Fo’er unusual and described Apa Khagan as suspicious, calculating, and easily influenced by his imagination.

Jinlian revealed Apa Khagan’s preference for female bodyguards, his mistrust of men, and his focus on luxury and beauty rather than strategic leadership.

A Göktürk patrol intercepted them, claiming the khagan had forbidden Central Plainsmen from entering the encampment. Despite Jinlian’s protests, the soldiers barred their entry.

Jinlian promised to speak to the khagan on their behalf and left, escorted by the patrol, to clarify the situation.

Another group of Göktürk soldiers approached later, this time surrounding Cui Buqu and the others with hostile intent.

Cui Buqu ordered Feng Xiao and Qiao Xian to defeat the soldiers without killing them. Feng Xiao, eager for chaos, led the attack, quickly incapacitating the group.

Feng Xiao captured the group’s leader, a yabghu (high-ranking official), and used him as a hostage to demand an audience with the khagan.

The group entered the Göktürk encampment, where Apa Khagan, hunched and wary, received them in a large yurt filled with Göktürk nobles and officials.

Jinlian appeared unharmed but visibly anxious, indicating tension in the court.

Among the nobles, Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao spotted Fo’er seated near the khagan, watching them with cold detachment.

A Han slave, pouring wine for the nobles, was brutally kicked by a young Göktürk noble, who sneered at Cui Buqu and called the Central Plainsmen "lowly bastards."

The oppressive atmosphere in the yurt suggested political intrigue and hostility, making it clear that persuading Apa Khagan would be far from straightforward.

Cui Buqu confronted Apa Khagan about their mistreatment, accusing him of failing to honor their good faith as Sui envoys.

Apa Khagan shifted the blame to Jinlian Khatun, claiming the journey was her idea, and indirectly revealed Fo’er’s influence over his decisions.

Prince Ade, Apa Khagan’s younger son, insulted the Central Plainsmen, accusing them of seducing Jinlian into bringing them to the Göktürks.

Feng Xiao attacked Prince Ade but was intercepted by Fo’er, sparking an intense fight inside the royal yurt. Their clash demonstrated Fo’er’s skill, though Feng Xiao maintained the upper hand.

Qiao Xian took down Prince Ade after his guards attempted to seize Cui Buqu, pressing him to the ground in a humiliating display.

Cui Buqu used Apa Khagan’s principles of "might makes right" to justify their behavior and demanded an apology from Prince Ade, further asserting the Sui dynasty’s authority.

Forced by Apa Khagan, a humiliated Ade reluctantly apologized before storming out of the yurt, enraged and embarrassed.

Apa Khagan placated Cui Buqu’s group by promising hospitality and inviting them to the Eight Tribes Conference, where disputes could be settled in competition.

The group was assigned lodgings next to Fo’er, an obvious attempt by Apa Khagan to provoke further conflict and determine which side held more power.

Qiao Xian reported that the first prince, Yixun, offered to host them, showing potential as an ally against Ade.

Feng Xiao revealed an injury from his fight with Fo’er, though he remained confident that his opponent had also sustained internal damage.

Cui Buqu analyzed Apa Khagan’s strategy, concluding that the khagan was stalling to gauge their strength against Fo’er before deciding on an alliance.

Cui Buqu emphasized the importance of showcasing their strength at the Eight Tribes Conference to command respect and deter opposition.

Jinlian Khatun unexpectedly arrived, warning the group that they were in serious trouble, implying further complications ahead.

Jinlian explained that Apa Khagan’s mistrust stemmed from an assassination attempt by one of her female guards while she was in the Central Plains. The khagan executed the rest of her guards in anger and blamed her for the betrayal.

Jinlian revealed she was detained upon her return and spared punishment only due to the intervention of the greater khatun, mother of the first prince, Yixun.

Jinlian suspected Prince Ade of manipulating the khagan during her absence, gaining his trust and turning him against her while aligning with conservative nobles and possibly Fo’er.

Jinlian admitted her network of allies and subordinates had been entirely dismantled, leaving her isolated in court politics.

Cui Buqu questioned whether the greater khatun or her son could become allies, but Jinlian dismissed them as passive and timid, likening them to "southerners from the Central Plains."

Jinlian suggested their best chance to sway the khagan was through the upcoming Eight Tribes Conference, where Feng Xiao could showcase the strength of the Sui dynasty by winning contests of horsemanship and archery.

Cui Buqu proposed Jinlian seek out the Black Moon Shaman, a respected elder with significant influence among the Göktürks, who might advocate on their behalf.

Jinlian left to meet the shaman with treasures from the Central Plains as gifts, leaving the group to strategize further.

Shortly after Jinlian’s departure, an attendant of the first prince arrived to inquire after their wellbeing, prompting Cui Buqu to concoct a bold plan.

Cui Buqu staged a fake scene of being overpowered by Feng Xiao, tousling his clothes and leaving visible marks on his neck while feigning resistance.

The attendant burst into the yurt mid-"struggle," shocked by the sight of Feng Xiao on top of Cui Buqu.

Cui Buqu theatrically shoved Feng Xiao off and angrily ordered the stunned attendant to leave, continuing his deceptive act to sow confusion and manipulate perceptions.

Jinlian disclosed Apa Khagan’s mistrust stemmed from an assassination attempt by one of her guards, who had infiltrated her group seeking revenge for her father's death. The failed attempt led to all her guards being executed and her influence diminished.

Jinlian revealed her political isolation, as Prince Ade had exploited her absence to gain Apa Khagan's trust and turn him against her.

She admitted being supported only by the greater khatun and first prince, Yixun, who were both timid and powerless to influence the khagan's decisions.

Jinlian suggested the upcoming contests at the Eight Tribes Conference as a chance for Feng Xiao to display the strength of the Sui dynasty, which might sway the khagan.

Cui Buqu deduced the assassination attempt on the khagan and Jinlian's subsequent downfall were likely orchestrated by Ade, though there was no evidence to prove it.

Jinlian mentioned the Black Moon Shaman, a revered elder who could influence the khagan. However, he was reportedly in seclusion to recuperate after treating the khagan’s illness.

Cui Buqu suggested Jinlian attempt to contact the shaman with gifts, but she later sent word that the shaman was unavailable, complicating their plans.

Cui Buqu staged a fake scene of being overpowered by Feng Xiao to give the first prince, a closeted cut-sleeve, a sense of kinship and increase his goodwill toward them.

Feng Xiao teased Cui Buqu during their performance, but they succeeded in sowing confusion and intrigue with the attendant, who was expected to report the encounter to the first prince.

Jinlian’s maid, Muge, delivered a map of the route to the Black Moon Shaman’s secluded house. Feng Xiao decided to investigate the shaman’s claims of illness himself.

At the banquet, Cui Buqu and Qiao Xian planned to approach Prince Yixun for potential support, while Feng Xiao left alone to visit the shaman under the cover of night.

Feng Xiao reached the shaman’s residence, a lone stone house atop a hillside, and cautiously observed the surroundings, finding no signs of attendants.

He detected faint snoring from within the house, consistent with an ill and elderly person, but sensed something amiss as the sounds of the banquet suddenly vanished.

As Feng Xiao entered the house and pushed open the door, a sinister voice surrounded him, its eerie laughter echoing from all directions: "You…finally came!"

Feng Xiao infiltrated the Black Moon Shaman’s residence, immediately falling victim to an elaborate illusory array that disoriented him with sensory manipulations.

The shaman’s eerie voice mocked Feng Xiao, but he refused to engage in dialogue, indicating hostile intentions and potentially siding with Prince Ade.

Feng Xiao encountered waves of ghostly apparitions, skeletal hands, and wailing spirits, all conjured to trap or disorient him. He steadily fought through, destroying the illusions with his internal energy.

The array intensified with a ghostly figure attempting to strike Feng Xiao from behind, its presence concealed by deafening screams.

Meanwhile, at the banquet, Cui Buqu observed the interactions among the Göktürk nobility. Fo’er sat with Prince Ade, conversing animatedly, while Prince Yixun approached Cui Buqu for a private conversation.

Cui Buqu leveraged the earlier staged scene to encourage Yixun’s sympathy, subtly feeding the first prince’s impression of them as fellow cut-sleeves. Yixun responded with camaraderie and offered his support.

Yixun revealed that Apa Khagan had taken a new Kuchean concubine, gifted by Prince Ade, whose growing influence had strengthened his position at court.

Jinlian expressed resentment over the new concubine’s sway, feeling increasingly sidelined in court politics.

The banquet was interrupted by news of someone disturbing the Black Moon Shaman’s seclusion. Prince Ade was enraged and demanded the culprit confess, promising severe punishment otherwise.

Prince Ade turned his suspicion toward Cui Buqu and openly accused the Sui envoy of the transgression, escalating tensions in the yurt.

Prince Ade accused Cui Buqu and his party of disturbing and injuring the Black Moon Shaman after a fire broke out near the shaman's residence, claiming the culprits were among them.

Ade insisted on immediate punishment for the Sui envoys, while Cui Buqu demanded evidence and swore an oath before the Göktürk gods to prove his innocence, deflecting the accusations.

Jinlian and Prince Yixun supported Cui Buqu, with Yixun emphasizing the need to wait for their father, Apa Khagan, to make any decisions.

Ade, growing frustrated, ordered the guards to search every yurt for the missing Feng Xiao, claiming that he must be the culprit.

The greater khatun arrived and exercised her authority, undermining Ade's claim to power and siding with Prince Yixun to protect the envoys.

Ade refused to back down, but the situation escalated when news arrived that the Black Moon Shaman had succumbed to his injuries, turning the incident into a murder case.

Ade used the shaman's death to intensify his accusations against the Sui envoys, particularly Feng Xiao, and vowed severe punishment if he was proven guilty.

Guards searched extensively, eventually reporting that Feng Xiao had been located, but their hesitant demeanor raised questions.

To everyone’s shock and Ade’s mortification, the guards revealed that Feng Xiao was found inside Ade’s own yurt, sparking chaos and confusion.

Cui Buqu, ever calm, turned the tables once again, insinuating that Ade might be colluding with Feng Xiao, further aggravating the prince and deepening the dramatic tension.

Feng Xiao was found unconscious in the second prince Ade's yurt, tied up alongside Ade’s concubine, with bloodstains on both and their clothing in disarray.

Ade accused Feng Xiao of seducing his concubine, but Feng Xiao claimed that Ade had drugged him, attempting to set up a humiliating situation for him.

The assembled Göktürk nobles and envoys, including Ade's own attendants, began doubting the second prince due to his notorious lascivious reputation.

Prince Yixun and the greater khatun intervened to protect Feng Xiao, further exposing Ade’s lack of authority and intensifying the internal power struggle.

Apa Khagan finally appeared, irritated by the commotion and dismissing the accusations, choosing instead to focus on the death of the Black Moon Shaman.

Feng Xiao, Cui Buqu, and Qiao Xian returned to their yurt, where it was revealed that Feng Xiao was severely injured from his earlier encounter at the shaman's residence.

Feng Xiao explained he had fought someone skilled in martial arts, encountered a sophisticated illusory array, and narrowly escaped death.

Cui Buqu deduced that the Black Moon Shaman had likely been killed before Feng Xiao arrived, and Feng Xiao was manipulated into becoming a scapegoat for the crime.

Feng Xiao admitted to staging the scene with Ade’s concubine to distract from the investigation into the shaman’s death and undermine Ade’s authority.

The trio speculated about the true murderer’s identity, suspecting a deeper conspiracy involving either a rival faction within the Western Khaganate or a foreign envoy.

Despite his injuries, Feng Xiao vowed to shine during the Eight Tribes Conference, undeterred by Ade and Fo’er’s likely plans to sabotage or kill him during the event.

Cui Buqu’s brief hesitation before assigning Feng Xiao the task revealed a rare moment of concern for his safety, momentarily touching Feng Xiao before Cui quickly returned to his pragmatic demeanor.

The Eight Tribes Conference commenced despite the Black Moon Shaman's death, and Cui Buqu’s group prepared for the event.

Jinlian’s maid, Muge, informed Cui Buqu that Jinlian could arrange for him to examine the shaman’s body, but he declined, citing the likelihood of evidence having been destroyed in the fire.

At the conference site near Verdant Lake, the second prince Ade arrived with his entourage, his demeanor smug, clearly plotting against Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao.

Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu discussed Fo’er’s likely intention to exploit Feng Xiao’s injury and challenge him in a martial contest to humiliate and kill him in front of the gathered tribes.

Apa Khagan, arriving with his new concubine, maintained a diplomatic tone, praising both the Sui dynasty and Ishbara Khagan while avoiding direct conflict.

Ade proposed altering the conference’s traditional martial contest by introducing a dangerous challenge where an archer had to hit an apple held by a rider on horseback from a distance of 100 paces.

Fo’er volunteered to demonstrate the challenge, infusing his arrow with internal energy to hit the apple flawlessly, drawing applause and intimidating the gathered envoys.

Ade explicitly banned the use of slaves or servants as targets, forcing high-status participants to take part, further pressuring Cui Buqu’s group.

Fo’er’s actions were clearly intended to provoke Feng Xiao into competing, knowing that his injury would hinder his performance.

Ade mocked the Sui envoys, suggesting they concede defeat and return home with some cattle and sheep as compensation to avoid embarrassing themselves further.

Fo’er’s strategy became apparent: either Feng Xiao competes and risks worsening his injury, or someone else competes and suffers a humiliating loss, damaging the Sui dynasty's reputation.

Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao appeared to argue quietly, which Fo’er misinterpreted as a sign of disunity and desperation within their group, bolstering his confidence.

Ade protested Qiao Xian’s participation as the archer, claiming her status wasn’t high enough, and Apa Khagan supported his son.

Feng Xiao eventually agreed to take the role of archer, shooting the apple from Cui Buqu’s hand while on horseback, flawlessly matching Fo’er’s earlier performance.

Fo’er observed Feng Xiao closely, deducing his injury from subtle details, such as his stiff right shoulder and thickly layered clothing, concluding that the match had further aggravated his wound.

The first contest ended in a draw, leaving Ade frustrated. He proposed another match to highlight the martial prowess of the Göktürks.

Ade nominated Namudo, his formidable subordinate, to challenge Qiao Xian. Namudo emerged as a highly skilled and disciplined fighter, recognized by Feng Xiao as having the potential to rival Fo’er in the future.

Namudo’s brute strength and abundant internal energy overwhelmed Qiao Xian’s agility and qinggong, eventually injuring her severely.

Cui Buqu conceded the match to prevent further harm to Qiao Xian, but Ade urged Namudo to continue the attack, seeking personal revenge.

Apa Khagan intervened, scolding Ade and maintaining order in the conference, while Qiao Xian returned to her group injured but alive.

Fo’er seized the moment to challenge Feng Xiao directly, aiming to defeat him in front of everyone and solidify Ishbara Khagan’s dominance.

Fo’er was determined to exploit Feng Xiao’s injuries and finally assert his superiority, having failed to defeat him in their two prior encounters.

Despite his injury, Feng Xiao maintained his composure, while Cui Buqu subtly encouraged him, pushing him to fight strategically in the critical match ahead.

Feng Xiao accepted Fo’er's handicap of three free moves, surprising the crowd by agreeing so readily.

Feng Xiao launched a relentless, shadow-like assault, forcing Fo’er into defensive maneuvers. Fo’er eventually broke his promise and retaliated, shifting to a full-on battle.

Feng Xiao dodged and parried Fo’er’s attacks, never fully engaging, leading Fo’er to believe Feng Xiao’s injury was real.

Frustrated, Fo’er escalated his attacks, using a concealed vajra weapon to force Feng Xiao into a direct confrontation.

Feng Xiao caught the vajra but used it as a diversion, baiting Fo’er into overcommitting. Fo’er attempted a fatal palm strike, which Feng Xiao evaded.

Feng Xiao countered decisively, striking Fo’er’s shoulder blade and plunging a concealed blade into his back, disabling him.

Fo’er attempted to resist, but Feng Xiao sealed his acupoints, delivering a final blow to his heart that left Fo’er incapacitated and bleeding.

Fo’er, mortally wounded, glared at Feng Xiao in hatred before succumbing to his injuries. His last attempt to speak failed, and he died.

Feng Xiao revealed his use of the meridian sealing technique, which temporarily boosted his power, allowing him to overcome his injuries and kill Fo’er.

Fo’er’s deputy envoy attacked Feng Xiao in rage but was swiftly killed in a single counterattack.

The spectators were stunned into silence. Ade, shocked and terrified, realized the strength of Feng Xiao and the failure of his schemes.

Feng Xiao’s victory not only cemented his strength but also crushed Ishbara’s representatives, leaving the Western Khaganate’s political dynamics shaken.

Feng Xiao wiped blood from his blade, approached the second prince, and returned a crushed grape, intimidating Ade.

Terrified, Ade stumbled behind Apa Khagan for protection, but the khagan ignored his son’s panic.

Apa Khagan praised Feng Xiao for his victory and referred to him as a warrior blessed by the Wolf God, solidifying Feng Xiao’s influence.

Feng Xiao warned of Ishbara Khagan’s potential retaliation, but Apa Khagan dismissed the concern, focusing instead on building relations with the Sui dynasty.

The bodies of Fo’er and his deputy envoy were unceremoniously removed, a stark reminder of Göktürk practicality.

The envoys showered Feng Xiao with praises while shifting their allegiances toward the Sui dynasty after witnessing his strength.

Apa Khagan reprimanded the second prince for his failures, solidifying Ade’s loss of influence.

Jinlian regained her favorable position with Apa Khagan, taking her place as the primary khatun again.

Feng Xiao teased Cui Buqu by pinching his earlobe twice, causing minor embarrassment and confusion.

The first prince witnessed this interaction and misunderstood, deepening his belief that Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu were romantically involved.

Jinlian informed Cui Buqu that Apa Khagan planned to meet him privately after the banquet to finalize an alliance with Sui.

Despite the favorable turn of events, Cui Buqu remained uneasy, sensing an undercurrent of unresolved issues.

At the banquet that evening, Apa Khagan appeared in full splendor, while Ade was conspicuously absent, further highlighting his diminished status.

Apa Khagan personally toasted the Sui envoys, signaling his clear intent to align with Sui.

Feng Xiao, abstaining from alcohol due to his injuries, left the banquet early to return to his yurt.

While walking back alone in the dark, Feng Xiao felt a smooth, tender hand brush against his waist, leaving him on alert.

Feng Xiao grabbed the Kuchean beauty who attempted to seduce him in the dark, suspecting a trap.

She claimed admiration for Feng Xiao but was struck mute and left incapacitated when she failed to answer his questions.

Feng Xiao dragged her to the royal yurt but abandoned her en route when he noticed an uproar at the second prince’s yurt.

Inside the yurt, the second prince, Ade, was found dead with no external injuries but a thin iron needle embedded in his Baihui acupoint, the apparent cause of death.

The Göktürk physician suggested poison or an expert assassin as potential causes, alarming Apa Khagan, who suspended the banquet and ordered the yurt sealed.

Ade’s maid recounted his tantrum-filled evening, ending in his abrupt death, raising suspicions.

Amid rising tension, a Göktürk aristocrat accused Feng Xiao of Ade’s murder, noting his absence from the banquet.

Feng Xiao appeared and claimed he had excused himself to rest, denying any involvement in the prince’s death.

Apa Khagan summoned Liu Sigu, the Black Moon Shaman’s apprentice, who accused Feng Xiao of being present at the shaman’s residence on the night of his death.

Apa Khagan connected the deaths of the shaman, Fo’er, and Ade, accusing Feng Xiao and the Sui envoys of a plot to destabilize the Western Khaganate.

Göktürk aristocrats and warriors rallied against the Sui envoys, calling for their execution, creating a volatile and dangerous atmosphere.

Feng Xiao maintained his composure but silently acknowledged the difficulty of escaping with Cui Buqu and Qiao Xian, especially given the latter’s injuries.

As Göktürk warriors closed in, Cui Buqu, understanding the gravity of the situation, calmly interrupted with a single word: “Wait.”

The second prince of the Western Khaganate is found dead, and the Sui envoys, particularly Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu, are the prime suspects due to the prince's earlier provocation.

Many suspect the first prince as the true beneficiary of the murder, possibly colluding with the Sui to eliminate his rival.

Cui Buqu, known for his wit, initially shocks everyone by appearing to admit guilt, but then clarifies he meant that if the Khagan had already decided they were guilty, no defense would matter.

He challenges the Khagan to produce evidence or witnesses, arguing none of the guards saw them enter or leave the second prince’s tent.

The Khagan points out that Feng Xiao was missing during the banquet and seen entering the shaman’s hut before the murder, pressing further accusations.

Cui Buqu requests one day to find the real killer, warning that the true threat still lurks and might even target the Khagan next.

The Khagan initially refuses, fearing they’ll flee, but the khatun (empress) and others pressure him into agreeing to Cui Buqu’s request.

To secure the Khagan’s trust, Cui Buqu offers to leave one of them as a hostage, with the Khagan eyeing Feng Xiao due to his martial prowess.

In a twist, Cui Buqu insists on staying behind himself, citing his role as envoy and offering his life in good faith, knowing Feng Xiao is better suited to investigate.

Feng Xiao is caught off guard but accepts the plan. He theatrically declares Cui is his lover to dissuade suspicion and enhance their cover.

The act convinces the Khagan somewhat, and Feng Xiao leaves dramatically, promising to return within a day to find the true murderer.

As he departs, he secretly slips a vial to Cui Buqu, hinting at a deeper strategy yet to unfold.

Cui Buqu is imprisoned in the second prince’s yurt, guarded by over a hundred men, making any rescue nearly impossible.

Feng Xiao returns to his yurt and is scolded by Qiao Xian for leaving Cui behind, but he deflects blame, saying Cui insisted on staying.

Jinlian also confronts Feng Xiao, begging for a plan to save Cui. Feng pretends he has no intention of helping, claiming that Cui’s downfall benefits him politically.

He elaborates that as the heads of rival agencies (Jiejian and Zuoyue), he stands to gain from Cui’s demise and would rather not lift a finger to save him.

Jinlian is shocked and suspects Feng is serious about letting Cui die but remains unsure whether it’s part of a larger plan.

Instead of searching for the killer, Feng Xiao leisurely strolls around the markets, chatting with foreign merchants, enjoying roast lamb and grapes, and reflecting on his unexpected feelings.

Despite trying to convince himself he’d be glad to see Cui fall, he realizes something’s missing—he’s grown used to Cui’s presence and cleverness.

He jokes to himself that without Cui, life is less flavorful, even his favorite foods seem bland.

He laughs imagining Cui as a sharp-beaked egret and finally admits that Cui is irreplaceable.

Jinlian finds Feng again and is surprised by his carefree attitude, thinking all hope is lost.

Unexpectedly, Feng asks if the shaman’s hut still exists and instructs her to bring him the two surviving disciples, suggesting he’s about to begin a real investigation.

Meanwhile, Qiao Xian manages to visit Cui Buqu and offers to rescue him, but he stops her.

Cui insists Feng must not return for him under any circumstances and sends Qiao with that message, confusing her.

Alone again, Cui pulls out a vial hidden in his sleeve—secretly given by Feng—and pours it into an incense burner, activating the next phase of his own plan.

He loudly demands an audience with Apa Khagan, warning that failure to comply will bring dire consequences.

The guard reports to the khagan, who is in the middle of a strange meditation pose and responds calmly.

For the first time, Apa Khagan says Cui Buqu’s name aloud with eerie affection and heads toward Cui’s tent, signaling a pivotal shift in their confrontation.

Apa Khagan visits Cui Buqu in his guarded yurt, exuding confidence and superiority, treating Cui as already condemned.

Cui confronts him calmly, questioning his lack of sorrow over the second prince’s death and accusing him of being unbothered because he’s not the real Khagan.

Cui asks to speak privately, warning that what he says might make the Khagan regret it. Apa agrees and dismisses the guards.

Alone, Cui begins revealing his deductions, noting that the real Khagan was likely replaced after falling ill and receiving treatment from the Black Moon Shaman.

Cui explains that Feng Xiao detected scents in the shaman’s stone hut—musk, ginger, lovage—key ingredients for "purification pills" used to mask the smell of corpses.

These ingredients are not native to the Western Khaganate, indicating involvement from someone with Central Plains knowledge—like the fake Khagan himself.

Cui theorizes the shaman was killed and his identity assumed first. Then the real Khagan was murdered, and his corpse hidden with incense masking the stench.

Cui reveals he initially suspected the Black Moon Shaman was impersonating the Khagan but changed his mind due to the sophistication of the cover-up.

The false Khagan claps, impressed by Cui's deductions, and drops his façade, speaking in perfect Chinese and praising Cui’s intelligence.

Cui points out early inconsistencies that confirmed his suspicion: the Khagan’s failure to ogle Qiao Xian, and his suspicious absence from the banquet the night the shaman died.

He accuses the impersonator of fighting Feng Xiao, staging the fire to frame him, and covering his injuries with perfume.

Cui's physical condition worsens as he speaks, but he presses on, deducing that the impersonator is the monk Yuxiu, whom they had previously met and mistaken for someone else.

Yuxiu finally drops the disguise completely, confirming Cui’s deductions and revealing his motive: to throw the Western Khaganate into chaos and sever its alliance with Sui.

Cui concludes that Yuxiu’s whole plan was designed to incite war and destabilize the region from within by posing as a leader and sabotaging diplomacy.

Yuxiu mocks Cui’s health and suggests Feng Xiao won’t save him, but Cui remains defiant, having already baited Yuxiu into revealing everything.

Feng Xiao returns to the burned-down stone hut once used by the shaman and, despite its ruined state, pretends to search for clues, mostly to deflect suspicion.

Jinlian is frustrated by his flippant attitude and urges him to act quickly, warning that the khagan is growing increasingly hostile and may execute Cui Buqu.

Feng Xiao pretends not to care and mocks the situation, implying that Cui’s downfall would benefit him by weakening the rival Zuoyue Bureau.

Jinlian is horrified by Feng’s indifference and prepares to appeal to the first prince or the khatun for help, but Feng warns her against it—it would backfire politically.

Feng hints he’s waiting for a signal from Cui Buqu, trusting that Cui’s cryptic instructions are part of a larger plan not yet revealed.

Qiao Xian arrives with a message from Cui: Feng must not return for him, must not take revenge, and must escape—indicating the khagan is too dangerous to challenge.

Feng Xiao immediately interprets the message as code—Cui Buqu actually means the opposite. He’s setting a trap and needs them to act urgently.

As Feng explains this, a hidden assassin attacks from the forest. Feng fends him off with precise, reactive moves despite his previous injuries.

The mysterious attacker wields a flexible metal chain that avoids Feng’s qi and targets his acupoints. The battle is fierce, suggesting the enemy is another top-tier martial artist.

Simultaneously, more masked men ambush Qiao Xian and Jinlian, preventing them from helping Feng or escaping. The attackers appear to belong to the same organization.

Jinlian realizes these skilled fighters may be tied to the earlier murders of the second prince and the shaman.

Back in the khagan’s yurt, Yuxiu, now fully revealed as the imposter khagan and mastermind, watches Cui Buqu struggle with illness but still speak calmly and insightfully.

Cui probes Yuxiu’s true identity and motives, questioning whether he’s trying to sabotage the Sui dynasty from within by manipulating the Prince of Jin and forming the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai.

Cui accuses Yuxiu of being “Yi-xiansheng,” the leader of the Thirteen Floors. Yuxiu denies it but confirms he is among the higher-ranking members.

Yuxiu is confident that Feng Xiao will die in battle and that Cui’s intelligence is powerless without allies—until he smells something strange.

Yuxiu discovers the incense burner and realizes too late that Cui has poisoned the air with “Incense of Helplessness,” a paralyzing drug.

Enraged, Yuxiu smashes the burner and pins Cui to the floor, choking him and demanding answers.

With blood trickling from his lips, Cui Buqu mouths the name of the poison, having baited Yuxiu into the room and into breathing it long enough to take effect.

Yuxiu realizes he’s inhaled the Incense of Helplessness, a rare and potent poison used by the Jiejian Bureau, and begins to feel its effects as Cui Buqu calmly explains how it works.

Cui reveals there is no antidote, but manipulates Yuxiu by pretending one might exist with Feng Xiao, deepening Yuxiu’s paranoia and desperation.

Yuxiu searches Cui and finds pills, forces Cui to swallow some to test them, only to discover they’re just asthma medication.

Yuxiu takes some himself, and when they fail to ease his pain, he becomes more agitated but decides not to kill Cui immediately, needing him alive for potential information.

Cui, in increasing pain from the poison and his illness, keeps Yuxiu talking to distract him and learn more about his identity and motives.

Through deduction and provocation, Cui exposes Yuxiu as a disciple of the Tiantai Sect who was once nearly named its next leader but instead chose to go rogue.

He reveals Yuxiu’s backstory: an orphan of mixed blood from Luhua Village, rescued and raised by Princess Qianjin, who later became a political hostage bride in the Eastern Khaganate.

Cui reveals that Yuxiu massacred his home village after gaining martial power and later aligned with the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai, working against both Sui and the Western Khaganate.

Yuxiu denies being the group’s leader, Yi-xiansheng, but admits his allegiance and confirms his loyalty lies with Princess Qianjin, whom he loves deeply.

Cui connects Yuxiu’s repeated sabotage—including framing Sui envoys, disrupting the alliance, and manipulating Fo’er’s death—as revenge for the fall of the Yuwen clan and Qianjin’s suffering.

Yuxiu mocks Cui for failing to protect the people and letting women like Princess Qianjin suffer, accusing him of wasting his talents on palace politics.

Despite being poisoned, Yuxiu tries to kill Cui, believing Feng Xiao won’t make it in time. He begins slowly choking Cui, aiming to end him gradually.

Just as Yuxiu channels his internal energy for the killing blow, the sound of battle erupts outside, signaling Feng Xiao’s arrival and interrupting the execution.

One hour earlier, Feng Xiao, Qiao Xian, and Jinlian are ambushed by twelve black-clad assassins led by a powerful figure in blue, all elite martial artists sent to delay Feng from reaching Cui Buqu.

Qiao Xian, still injured, quickly becomes exhausted. Jinlian and Qiao are soon overwhelmed, unable to assist Feng as the enemies’ coordination outpaces them.

Feng Xiao fights fiercely, using his internal energy and agility, but knows time is critical—Cui Buqu is in grave danger if he’s delayed too long.

The leader in blue uses silent, razor-sharp chains—an infamous weapon with a deadly reputation. He unleashes a full-power assault on Feng Xiao, sealing off all escape routes.

Feng suddenly vanishes just before the chains hit, using a Yamato ninja technique to exploit a visual blind spot and confuse the enemy.

Feng reappears behind the man and strikes with a powerful palm attack, turning the tide.

He deduces the man’s identity: Go Un, leader of the Buyeo Sect and top assassin under Yuxiu, by analyzing his weapon and fighting style.

Go Un refuses to flee, launching a final desperate strike using a poisoned blade concealed in his shoe, aiming for Feng Xiao’s knee.

Jinlian cries out a warning, but it seems too late—Feng collapses, appearing fatally wounded.

At the last second, Feng turns the tables and pierces Go Un through the chest with his whip-sword, killing him in a flash.

Qiao Xian retrieves the sword for Feng, and he proceeds to slaughter the remaining enemies while leaving a few alive for interrogation.

Feng orders Qiao and Jinlian to pry open the jaws of captured enemies before they can ingest suicide pills.

Qiao begs Feng to rescue Cui Buqu. Feng scoffs and teases her, saying she should save her sincerity for her lord chief when he’s truly helpless and suffering.

Qiao, furious, nearly explodes with rage but is too weak to argue. As she tries to run toward Cui’s yurt, her injury worsens and she collapses.

With a wry smile, Feng takes off toward Cui’s location, muttering that Cui now owes him another massive favor.

Just as he reaches the royal yurt, two figures burst into the sky mid-battle—Feng Xiao and the fake Khagan—about to clash in a dramatic midair confrontation.

Jinlian and Qiao are stunned to see the supposed elderly Apa Khagan moving with the speed and grace of a top martial artist, confirming the final deception.

As Feng Xiao and the false Apa Khagan clash midair, Jinlian and Qiao Xian realize this man can't be the real khagan—his youthful agility and martial prowess are impossible for the aging leader.

Qiao Xian shouts that the khagan has been assassinated and replaced, exposing Yuxiu’s plot to sow chaos in the Khaganate.

Feng and Yuxiu exchange over a hundred fierce blows. Yuxiu, unmasked and enraged, fights with bloodlust, using a saber stolen from Prince Ade’s tent.

Yuxiu confirms he orchestrated everything—Fo’er’s death, the khagan’s murder, and the impersonation—to drive a wedge between the Khaganate and Sui and provoke war.

Feng taunts him with the news that Go Un is dead, further provoking Yuxiu.

Meanwhile, Qiao Xian finds Cui Buqu collapsed in the yurt, barely conscious and breathing weakly. She tries to heal him with true qi but is stopped by Cui, who warns her of lingering incense of helplessness.

Cui had used the incense to weaken Yuxiu during their confrontation, knowing the poison affects martial artists who circulate qi. It was a suicidal tactic that only Cui could pull off.

He urges Qiao Xian to find Prince Yixun quickly to stabilize the court and keep the conservative Göktürk nobles from exploiting the power vacuum.

Back outside, Yuxiu realizes he’s losing the fight. His qi falters due to the poison, and Feng’s relentless swordsmanship starts to overwhelm him.

Yuxiu makes a final gamble: he throws his saber toward Cui Buqu in the yurt to force Feng to choose between victory and saving his companion.

Feng reacts instantly, slicing the saber in midair before it can strike Cui’s neck, injuring Yuxiu and draining the last of his own qi in the process.

Severely weakened, Yuxiu retreats, vanishing into the distance. Jinlian and Göktürk guards give chase but are unlikely to catch him.

Feng lands beside Cui and teases him, checking if he’s dead. He jokes about shutting down the Zuoyue Bureau now that Cui’s “corpse has gone cold.”

Cui weakly opens his eyes, confirming he’s still alive but too weak to move. Qiao Xian and maids bring a palanquin, but Feng scoops him up instead.

On the way back, Feng grumbles about Cui never warning him before risking his life and declares the debt now owed is too massive to repay—even with his body—for the next thirty lifetimes.

Cui opens one eye and dryly offers forty.

Feng demands his promised reward: the legendary zither Yuyin from the Cui clan of Boling. Cui agrees and says they’ll go to Anping, his ancestral home, once he recovers.

Feng tries to bargain for more zithers; Cui coughs up blood dramatically and pretends to die to end the conversation.

Cui Buqu wakes up in a haze, disoriented and weakened from his injuries and prior battle with Yuxiu.

He’s greeted by a soft-spoken and stunningly beautiful Kuchean woman who offers him water and claims she’s been sent to take care of him while Qiao Xian is away.

Cui quickly recognizes her as an opportunist hoping to secure favor from someone powerful now that the old khagan is dead.

When she eagerly offers to do anything for him, he sarcastically requests that she dance on the table, then asks for increasingly absurd things like a handstand or imitating animals.

The woman, embarrassed and confused, complies with the dance but grows tearful as he continues to mock her. Eventually, she’s saved by Feng Xiao’s sudden appearance.

Feng Xiao descends from the rafters and casually mocks both the woman and the situation, saying that her seduction tactics might have worked on someone like Pei Jingzhe but not on them.

Feng explains that the woman was a royal concubine of the khagan and is now looking for a way into the Central Plains through Cui or Feng, but failed with both.

After she leaves, Feng teases Cui about being ungrateful for being saved and mocks his weakness. Cui simply counts down in his head, knowing Feng will cave and help him.

Feng agrees to pour him water—but only one sip per question answered.

Through this back-and-forth, Cui reveals that Yuxiu is a high-ranking member of the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai, though likely not Yi-xiansheng himself.

Yuxiu admitted this directly, and Cui sees no reason for him to lie at that point, given the circumstances.

Cui explains that Yuxiu is deeply loyal to Princess Qianjin, who raised him and hated the Sui dynasty. His political motivations are tied to revenge and upheaval in her name.

Feng builds on this theory, speculating that the Thirteen Floors have a larger plan beyond just revenge, one involving long-term disruption across nations.

The cryptic verses found on Duan Qihu are likely tied to this plot. Feng is sure Cui has been analyzing them, though Cui pretends to fall asleep before he can be asked more.

Feng finds him already dozing again, blanket tucked under his chin, and sarcastically notes he looks like he’s finished sharing all he intends to for now.

Following Yuxiu’s dramatic escape, everyone accepts that the real Apa Khagan is dead, though the exact circumstances—whether the body burned was the shaman’s or the khagan’s—remain uncertain due to the cremation.

The death of the khagan destabilizes the region, but Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao are now hailed as heroes instead of suspects, celebrated for exposing Yuxiu.

Visitors from across the Western Khaganate flood their yurt bearing lavish gifts and livestock, hoping to curry favor. Cui, still recovering and annoyed by the noise, turns most away.

Feng Xiao finds Cui visibly exhausted and jokingly accuses him of regretting rejecting the Kuchean beauty who tried to seduce him earlier.

Cui, too sick to banter properly, proposes that they return to the Central Plains soon. Feng playfully mocks his frailty while checking his dangerously weak pulse.

Despite the heat of early summer, Cui remains wrapped in furs due to lingering effects of poison and his chronic illness.

Cui reminds Feng that their mission was originally diplomatic—to forge an alliance with the Khaganate—and expects Prince Yixun, now the new khagan, to visit and finalize it.

Soon after, Prince Yixun and the two khatuns arrive, observing Central Plains etiquette by waiting outside for permission to enter.

The prince formally thanks Feng and Cui for saving the Khaganate and offers them anything within his power as repayment.

Feng bluntly rebukes their previous cold treatment and hypocrisy, pointing out they were nearly killed before being recognized.

The greater khatun humbly acknowledges their mistake and pledges future loyalty and friendship with the Sui dynasty.

Prince Yixun reads and seals an official alliance letter using a sacred gemstone, promising to visit the Sui capital as a symbol of goodwill.

Cui recites the full letter from memory after a single glance, shocking the prince and proving his intellect and attention to detail.

With Jinlian and the khatun’s support, Prince Yixun solidifies his new rule. A ceremony is held where Feng and Cui are honored like revered guests.

As promised, the khagan joins their return journey to the Central Plains, escorted by guards and carts of gifts. His mother remains behind to govern in his stead.

Cui also secures the release of many Han slaves, arranging for them to be resettled in Liugong City during the journey.

Upon arriving in Liugong, they are greeted by Magistrate Zhao, who brings an imperial decree rewarding Feng and Cui for retaking Qiemo—raising both men to the rank of marquis.

Though more rewards will likely come for their latest success, this decree precedes the news of their victory over Yuxiu.

For the first time since the mission began, they’re safely back within Sui borders. The moment they cross into Liugong, Feng senses Cui finally relax.

However, the relief brings a price—Cui’s illness surges back with full force, leaving him too weak to attend even the celebration banquet.

County Magistrate Zhao deeply regrets having neglected Cui Buqu upon their arrival in Liugong City, not realizing his importance as the chief of the mysterious Zuoyue Bureau.

Rumors swirl that the Zuoyue Bureau is as powerful as the Jiejian Bureau, directly answering to the empress, and that its chief (Cui) is as elusive as a ghost.

Desperate to make amends, Magistrate Zhao sends medicinal herbs, but Qiao Xian rejects them, citing Cui’s weakened condition.

Zhao considers sending a doctor but fears offending Qiao Xian further, and his anxiety grows to the point of insomnia.

When Cui remains bedridden and inaccessible, Zhao turns to Feng Xiao for advice, who enjoys watching Zhao squirm.

Feng teases Zhao by pretending not to know Cui well, but then mischievously suggests Zhao send Cui an erotic gift.

Zhao interprets this suggestion seriously and sends Cui a box of scrolls—explicit erotic art—which Feng later gleefully unveils in front of an unamused but unsurprised Cui.

Feng enjoys teasing Cui but is disappointed by his lack of reaction. Cui remains unflustered and throws Feng’s antics back at him.

Cui finally calls Feng out by referencing his secret identity as the leader of the once-feared Fajing Sect—implying he’s had enough of the games.

Feng, unfazed, shifts the conversation and demands the promised zither Yuyin, while Cui brings up serious intelligence: Ning Shewo, head of the powerful Jinhuan Guild, has secretly traveled north under the radar.

Cui suspects Ning Shewo’s destination is the Qixi Festival gathering of the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai—an event hinted at in previous investigations.

Feng agrees with the theory and praises the idea of striking the enemy at their core, but withholds his own piece of related intelligence to annoy Cui.

Feng leaves dramatically without revealing his secret, smugly leaving Cui obsessing over the withheld clue and unable to sleep.

The chapter ends with Cui counting “laughing Feng Xiao heads” in his head to fall asleep—clearly annoyed, but also more emotionally attached than he lets on.

On the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, during the Dragon Boat Festival, Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu arrive in Daxing City, the new capital of the Sui dynasty.

The city is vibrant, grand, and meticulously planned, filled with a sense of new imperial glory, where architecture, canals, and lanterns reflect prosperity and order.

A lavish birthday banquet is being held in Qingli Garden for Yuwen Eying, daughter of Princess Leping and the former emperor of the Zhou dynasty.

Though not officially titled, Yuwen Eying is treated as a county duchess, with all the honors and influence due to her mother’s royal status, despite the political awkwardness of her lineage.

The garden is extravagantly decorated with 989 lotus-shaped lanterns and live music coordinated across the entire venue, showing the wealth and ambition behind the event.

Two aristocratic young ladies, Gao Ying and Yan Yun, arrive and are awed by the luxury. They spot Feng Xiao sitting beside the Prince of Jin and are immediately struck by his dazzling beauty.

They gossip about him, noting he’s the deputy chief of the Jiejian Bureau and rumored to be admired by Princess Lanling, who reportedly asked the emperor for a marriage arrangement.

Meanwhile, Feng Xiao and the Prince of Jin chat casually. The prince praises Feng’s achievements in recovering Qiemo and exposing Yuxiu’s plot, hinting that a promotion or new fiefdom is imminent.

Feng brings up Yuxiu, revealing to the prince how he infiltrated the Western Khaganate and caused political chaos by impersonating the khagan.

The Prince of Jin apologizes, admitting he once viewed Yuxiu as a trusted advisor and had no idea he was linked to the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai.

Feng subtly tests whether the prince had known of Yuxiu’s true identity beforehand, but the prince’s response is sincere and clean—either truly ignorant or very well-practiced.

The prince also hints that Emperor Yang Jian is pushing for Feng to marry Yuwen Eying, which Feng brushes off as something he has no interest in.

Just as the conversation turns lighthearted again, Feng spots a new guest entering—a man in an autumn cloak in the middle of summer, clearly unusual and significant.

Feng jokingly refers to him as a “reclusive friend,” but the arrival immediately catches his interest and shifts the mood.

Cui Buqu arrives at Yuwen Eying’s birthday banquet at Qingli Garden, drawing attention despite his pale and unremarkable appearance.

Yan Yun and Gao Ying, two young noble ladies, are intrigued by him but fail to recognize him until Duchess Yuwen identifies him as Marquis Cui, chief of the Zuoyue Bureau.

Yuwen Eying casually reveals Cui’s recent promotion to marquis for escorting the Göktürk khagan to court and calls him equal in rank to the Six Ministers.

Yan Yun is captivated by his aloof demeanor and silently memorizes his name, moved by the contrast between his frailty and authority.

Cui exchanges polite words with the Prince of Jin, who publicly thanks him and Feng Xiao for exposing Yuxiu, saving the empire from disaster.

The Prince of Jin offers a toast but drinks it himself, acknowledging Cui’s poor health, and invites him to a future banquet in Furong Garden.

Cui politely declines, citing official duties, which visibly unsettles the prince’s attendants, though the prince keeps a calm face.

As Princess Leping and her entourage arrive, the Prince of Jin excuses himself, showing clear favoritism toward Cui compared to a court official he quickly brushes off.

Feng Xiao teases Cui, suggesting the Prince of Jin has a crush on him due to his uncharacteristically deferential behavior.

Cui dismisses the idea and calmly peels a mandarin, unimpressed by Feng’s antics.

Feng confronts him about avoiding contact since their return to the capital, accusing him of hiding away and snubbing his visits.

Cui sharply rebukes Feng for his disruptive antics—complaining about tea, smashing vases, releasing stray cats in the Zuoyue Bureau, and even fighting with Zhangsun.

Feng doubles down with a ridiculous joke: suggesting his next stunt will be to fabricate a story that Cui abandoned a pregnant wife who has now come looking for him, keeping their usual banter sharp and flirtatious.

Cui Buqu reflects on the ambiguous and ever-shifting dynamic between himself and Feng Xiao—neither enemies nor friends, but constantly testing each other’s boundaries.

Feng Xiao pesters Cui at the banquet, suspicious of his presence since Cui usually avoids such social events. Cui finally admits he’s there to arrest someone.

Cui refuses to tell Feng who he’s targeting, stating that the Jiejian and Zuoyue Bureaus don’t interfere with each other’s affairs.

Yan Yun and Gao Ying approach, and Yan Yun gathers the courage to ask to speak with Cui privately, but he coldly refuses her, crushing her hope on the spot.

Duchess Yuwen tries to mediate but is stopped by a single glance from Cui Buqu—his aura suddenly icy and threatening, despite his calm smile and offer of mandarins.

Feng Xiao notes how unusual this interaction is, particularly how Duchess Yuwen reacts with visible fear, implying an unknown history or secret.

Princess Lanling’s maid arrives to summon Feng Xiao, but he declines, sending a sarcastic well-wish instead. The maid leaves in frustration.

Duchess Yuwen criticizes Feng Xiao for rejecting a princess, suggesting it would be an honor to marry into the imperial family. Feng brushes her off, uninterested.

Cui continues mocking her, offering more mandarins. She retreats, visibly unsettled.

Feng grows increasingly curious about why high-ranking nobles like Princess Leping and the Prince of Jin are so deferential—or fearful—toward Cui Buqu.

In their usual banter, Feng teases that Cui must be the lover of either Princess Leping or the Empress. Cui sarcastically counters by claiming he could be the emperor’s illegitimate child.

The banquet begins with the entire imperial family in attendance, hosted by Princess Leping for her daughter, Duchess Yuwen.

The celebration includes riddle games and dance performances with extravagant decorations and musical fanfare.

Duchess Yuwen offers a family heirloom sword as a prize for the riddle game, but Cui interrupts, pointing out the sword is likely a relic stolen from the former Zhou imperial palace.

His blunt questioning humiliates Princess Leping in front of the court and dredges up painful political history—how she was forced to betray her birthright to support the Sui.

The crown prince rebukes Cui, but the Prince of Jin tries to smooth things over, asking to hear Cui’s reasoning.

Cui then claims he was simply curious, offering no further explanation, leaving everyone speechless.

The tension is defused, and the games resume, but Feng Xiao notices Cui arranging mandarin slices into the word “Kill,” confirming he came not for politics or play—but with a mission.

Feng realizes Cui has once again hidden a sharp dagger behind a soft exterior, and he settles in to watch, amused and intrigued.

Following the earlier disturbance caused by Cui Buqu’s blunt accusation about the heirloom sword, the banquet resumes with a riddle game hosted by the Crown Prince.

A scholar wins the first round, and Princess Leping gifts him a different sword to avoid controversy, thinly veiling her disdain toward Cui.

Yang Rende, a member of a prestigious noble family and ally of Duchess Yuwen, challenges Cui Buqu publicly with a complicated puzzle involving a red thread wrapped through a jade orb.

Cui examines the orb but claims he cannot solve it. Yang Rende implies he’s feigning ignorance to appease the royals and mocks his reputation.

Princess Leping joins the mockery with faux praise, still humiliated from earlier. She quietly sends a maid with new secret instructions, hinting at a scheme in motion.

As the maid moves to carry out her orders, she’s intercepted by Qiao Xian, who suddenly appears in the hall and knocks her unconscious.

Qiao Xian walks directly to Cui and signals him. Cui rises and coldly commands that the entire princess’s residence be surrounded—no one is to leave without his order.

Dozens of Zuoyue Bureau agents reveal themselves in the crowd, wearing black robes and wielding sabers, instantly seizing control of Qingli Garden.

The Crown Prince erupts in outrage, accusing Cui of treason. Princess Leping is furious, believing she’s being humiliated in public.

The Prince of Jin, however, quietly notices members of the Imperial Guard also present in the shadows, suggesting this operation was pre-approved by the emperor.

Cui announces that a terrorist plot was set to unfold at the banquet: oil was hidden in flowerpots and the exit paths were blocked to turn the garden into a deadly inferno using the thousand lanterns as ignition.

He explains that once fire broke out, everyone would have been trapped, and assassins were waiting outside to kill any survivors—nearly the entire royal family would’ve been wiped out.

Qiao Xian dramatically smashes one flowerpot, revealing it was filled with oil and covered by a false layer of soil.

Cui further explains how even the nearby lotus pond had been drained and sealed off, removing any chance of escape or fire suppression.

The Crown Prince demands to know who orchestrated it, and Cui says twenty people have already been apprehended, with more arrests ongoing.

At Cui’s signal, Qiao Xian brings forward Ren Yue, a trusted personal retainer of Princess Leping, tied and gagged.

Ren Yue pleads for the princess to save him, confirming her association with the man. Cui reveals Ren Yue was recommended by her and given increasing power in her inner circle.

This public arrest humiliates Princess Leping, who goes pale as Cui lays bare her close relationship with the mastermind behind the assassination attempt.

The chapter ends with Feng Xiao silently watching the chaos, having been arranging mandarin pith into the shape of a curled fox—symbolizing a sly trickster pretending to be harmless, just like Cui himself.

After Cui Buqu exposes Ren Yue as Yuwen Yi, a hidden heir of the fallen Yuwen royal line, Princess Leping tries to defend herself, accusing Cui of allowing the plot to proceed instead of stopping it earlier.

Cui calmly counters, saying they couldn’t act too soon or they’d scare off the conspirators; they had to wait until the trap was fully laid to catch everyone involved.

He reveals that Ren Yue, originally Yuwen Yi, was the son of Prince Yuewe (Yuwen Sheng) and entered the capital under a false identity. He was recommended to the princess by Yang Rende and gained her full trust.

Ren Yue protests his innocence, begging Princess Leping to believe he’s been framed, but she turns on him, devastated that someone she trusted and loved would betray her.

Cui coldly notes that Yuwen Yi bore a striking resemblance to the late Emperor Xuan—implying that Princess Leping’s affection was driven by this similarity, publicly humiliating her.

Overwhelmed, Princess Leping nearly collapses, and her relationship with Ren Yue is fully exposed in front of the entire noble assembly.

Cui then orders Ren Yue and his accomplices arrested and points out Yang Rende as another conspirator. Yang tries to deny involvement, but Cui outlines his role in bringing Ren Yue into the princess’s household.

Yang Rende is arrested despite his protests and is mocked by Cui for the jade orb riddle he used earlier to embarrass him.

The mood at the banquet is completely ruined. One by one, the royals and nobles begin to leave, starting with the Prince of Jin. The once-glorious event ends in complete disgrace.

As Cui departs, even the mandarin-pith fox sculpture on the table—crafted earlier by Feng Xiao—is scattered under his cloak’s hem, symbolic of how he tears through facades.

Outside, he splits the Zuoyue Bureau into two groups: one to stay and investigate, the other to escort the prisoners to the Ministry of Justice.

Just as Cui is about to enter his carriage, Feng Xiao grabs his cloak and demands repayment for the “favor” Cui owes him.

After a bit of banter, Cui agrees to meet him in three days at Changle Station. Feng finally lets go—but not before fending off Qiao Xian’s attempt to intervene.

Feng taunts Qiao about her injuries sustained in the Western Khaganate, suggesting Ren Yue might’ve resisted more had he known she was weakened.

Just as Cui prepares to leave, Duchess Yuwen (Princess Leping’s daughter) confronts him, accusing him of humiliating her mother and ignoring the importance of face and diplomacy.

Princess Lanling joins in and even kneels before Cui to beg forgiveness for her aunt, pleading for mercy, which shocks the crowd.

Cui offers no explanation and simply walks away, knowing that many will now see him as cruel and heartless, even though justice was served.

In his carriage, Cui reflects that something about the scene was strange, especially Princess Lanling’s involvement, but he isn’t sure what yet.

Suddenly, Feng Xiao sneaks into the carriage uninvited, pressing Cui against the wall and trapping his wrists in a seemingly flirtatious gesture.

Before Cui can respond, Feng silently mouths the warning: “There’s someone—underneath—the carriage,” signaling imminent danger.

Inside a dark carriage, Feng Xiao suddenly kisses Cui Buqu while whispering a warning that someone is hiding beneath the carriage.

Cui is stunned and confused by the kiss, questioning Feng's unorthodox method of communicating and realizing the intruder must be highly skilled to escape Qiao Xian's notice.

Feng continues the act, deepening the kiss to lull the hidden assassin into a false sense of security while enjoying Cui’s surprised expressions.

Cui struggles but is physically overpowered. Feng thinks teasing Cui is far more entertaining than fighting enemies and takes the opportunity to playfully provoke him further.

Just as the carriage hits a bump, Cui takes the chance to punch Feng and attempt escape—only for a blade to pierce the floor from beneath, narrowly missing them.

Feng reacts instantly, grabbing Cui and leaping out as the roof explodes. A white-clad assassin emerges in hot pursuit, revealing their presence.

Feng throws Cui to safety—into Qiao Xian’s arms—and begins a high-speed duel with the assassin, who is shockingly strong and masked in an ordinary, forgettable face.

Cui and Qiao Xian observe that the attacker blends multiple sword techniques from different martial sects—Southwest Jinchuan, Xuandu Mountain, and Yamato ninja arts—making their style deadly and untraceable.

The attacker’s skill rivals Feng Xiao’s. Their use of white clothes instead of black in the darkness signals both arrogance and a high level of confidence.

Qiao Xian realizes this person is not recorded in any of the Zuoyue Bureau’s archives, suggesting they’re either a completely hidden expert or heavily disguised.

Cui suspects this assassin isn’t related to Ren Yue’s exposed plot, implying that the true mastermind remains hidden, possibly linked to the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai.

Feng begins to lose ground under the assassin’s unrelenting assault, their sword moves blending ninja illusions with lethal strikes to trap Feng in a funnel of blade energy.

The chapter ends with Feng cornered and the assassin’s final blow poised to slice him apart in a blinding spiral of light, leaving Cui, Qiao Xian, and readers in suspense.

The white-clad assassin’s true target is revealed to be Cui Buqu, not Feng Xiao, and Qiao Xian is too injured to stop him.

Feng Xiao intercepts the assassin mid-attack, saving Cui and engaging the man in a fierce one-on-one duel in the dead of night.

The assassin is highly skilled and arrogant, intending to publicly kill Feng for maximum impact, but miscalculates Feng’s strength.

After a brutal exchange, Feng manages to catch the assassin’s blade with his bare hand, shocking the man and halting the deadly strike.

Realizing he’s at a disadvantage with reinforcements approaching—led by Zhangsun Bodhi—the assassin flees, abandoning his sword and vanishing into the rooftops.

Feng drops down, bleeding from his palm, and tosses the unmarked sword aside, confirming it has no identifying symbols.

Cui, worried, asks about Feng’s hand. Feng casually brushes it off, but then suddenly collapses, revealing he’s been poisoned by the assassin’s blade.

Qiao Xian checks his pulse and confirms it’s weak but not immediately fatal. They rush him to the Jiejian Bureau for emergency treatment.

During the carriage ride, Feng remains conscious but acts increasingly feeble, clutching Cui’s wrist, resting his head on Cui’s thigh, and milking the situation for attention.

Feng weakly begs Cui for answers about his past, including why powerful royals like Princess Leping, Duchess Yuwen, and the Prince of Jin treat Cui with such complex attitudes.

Cui finally relents and reveals the truth: he was the strategist who convinced the Duke of Sui (now Emperor Yang Jian) to seize power from the previous dynasty, shaping the political future of the empire.

He refused the public glory of being declared a meritorious servant and instead chose to operate from the shadows, which earned him the enduring trust of Empress Dugu.

This explains Cui’s influence and why the Empress, Prince of Jin, and others hold him in such regard—or fear. He played a direct role in toppling the Zhou dynasty, ruining Princess Leping’s claim to power.

After this revelation, Feng passes out smiling, finally understanding Cui’s history and importance.

Once they arrive at the Jiejian Bureau, the members are hostile toward Cui, but Feng wakes briefly and orders them to stand down, allowing Cui and Qiao to leave peacefully.

In the final twist, when Pei Jingzhe rushes into Feng’s room fearing for his life, he finds Feng sitting up, fully alert, getting his hand bandaged casually.

It’s revealed Feng had faked the severity of the poisoning, manipulating the situation to get Cui to open up emotionally and reveal his secrets.

Pei Jingzhe enters Feng Xiao’s room expecting to find a dying man but is shocked to see Feng full of energy and perfectly fine.

Feng reveals he faked his condition using the Turtle Breathing technique and sealed meridians to simulate poisoning and near-death, just to manipulate Cui Buqu into revealing secrets.

Ming Yue, the Jiejian Bureau’s third chief, is also stunned. Feng proudly admits it was all a calculated act to get Cui to owe him a “life debt.”

Feng downplays his actual injury—only his palm was cut—and boasts that he got what he wanted: the truth about Cui’s political past and ties to the imperial court.

Ming Yue comments that Feng’s goal seems to be getting Cui Buqu, not the Zuoyue Bureau, to owe him personally.

Feng confirms this, declaring that without Cui, the Zuoyue Bureau is meaningless—Cui is the “heart” of it all.

Feng announces he’s going to Boling-Anping with Cui in three days and leaves the Jiejian Bureau in Ming Yue’s care.

Pei Jingzhe asks to accompany him, but Feng reminds him he lost a year’s salary last time. He offers Pei two options: come with him and risk more salary loss for every mistake, or complete a high-stakes errand.

Pei Jingzhe eagerly chooses the errand in hopes of restoring his lost wages.

After Pei leaves, Feng admits he never expected Pei to complete the errand fully and plans to just give him back the previously docked pay—no bonus.

Ming Yue jokes Feng must come from a “House of Cheapskates,” given how stingy and cunning he is.

Feng complains about Pei wasting time flirting with local girls instead of doing his job, saying young men should have just enough to survive—not to squander.

Despite being the most handsome man in the Bureau, Feng admits that his dazzling looks scare women off. Meanwhile, Pei’s boy-next-door charm wins them over.

Ming Yue says Cui would call him jealous. Feng doesn't deny it.

Feng then gives Ming Yue a secret task: investigate Princess Leping and Linlang Pavilion for possible links to the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai.

Feng raises a bold theory: Princess Leping herself might be the mastermind behind the Thirteen Floors, based on her unresolved hatred toward the Sui dynasty and Cui.

Ming Yue finds it hard to believe but can’t dismiss the logic. Feng suggests her grudge against Cui is redirected rage at the current regime.

Feng further theorizes that Ren Yue could not have hired the white-clad assassin alone, implying a hidden backer—possibly the princess.

He instructs Ming Yue to investigate discreetly and beat the Zuoyue Bureau to the truth, relishing the thought of outmaneuvering Cui Buqu.

Ming Yue warns him that Cui will be suspicious if Feng “recovers” in just three days. Feng concedes and asks for the message to be delayed—say five days, claiming slow recovery.

Ming Yue jokingly suggests telling Cui he’s dying to lure him in, but Feng refuses, saying Cui is too contrary: the more you push, the more he resists.

Feng commits to playing the invalid perfectly and tells Ming Yue to blow out the candle as he lies down like a frail patient.

Once alone, Feng gazes at the moonlight and reflects on the kiss in the carriage. Though Cui’s face is plain, the memory of the kiss lingers with him.

He touches his lips and admits to himself, “I may be in a bit of trouble,” suggesting he’s caught deeper feelings than intended.

He wonders whether, if another chance came to trap Cui, he would still take it—or hesitate now that his heart is involved.

Eight days pass after the assassination attempt without any activity from the Zuoyue Bureau. Feng Xiao nearly believes Cui Buqu has forgotten their agreement to meet.

On the appointed day, Feng spots Cui Buqu waiting outside Tonghua Gate. Surprisingly, Cui is unusually polite and concerned, even bowing and asking after Feng’s health.

Feng is thrown off by Cui’s courteous behavior but plays along, pretending his hand still aches from the poison wound.

Cui calmly reminds him that the weather has been perfect—no clouds or rain—and questions the validity of the "phantom pain."

Feng tries to embellish his story further, saying the wound itches at night and that the poison was more severe than expected.

Cui reveals he’s been busy tracking the assassin and offers a "reward"—a cure. He pulls out a terrifyingly thick silver needle, saying he learned acupuncture from a legendary doctor.

Feng, visibly alarmed, hesitates. He then realizes Cui must have seen through his act of being poisoned and weak.

Cui confirms he figured it out because the assassin’s blade was clean—no poison remained when it was handed to Zhangsun Bodhi.

Feng admits defeat and sulks, protesting that at least the injury itself was real. Cui agrees but reminds him that he saved Feng’s political standing at Qingli Garden in return.

They call it even, though Feng pouts and asks to be treated more gently next time.

Cui suddenly turns serious and demands to know why Feng kissed him in the carriage before the assassin struck.

Feng pretends innocence, claiming he was listening for the assassin’s movements or trying to confuse the enemy.

Cui calls it an assault. Feng insists it was tactical deception. Neither backs down, but Cui gives up questioning—though Feng notices his ears are pink, a rare sign of fluster.

Feng inwardly delights at the discovery: Cui may seem composed, but his subtle physical reactions betray strong emotions.

They fall into a brief, peaceful silence—each processing their thoughts, enjoying an unspoken truce.

Since Qiao Xian is still recovering, Cui only brings two guards. Feng arrives alone, making it a minimalist four-person group.

They travel east from Daxing City toward Anping in Boling Commandery, resting at a roadside village after the gates close for the night.

As they sip tea in a small, bustling teahouse outside the city, Feng teases Cui for being ticklish and nearly makes him spit his drink.

A young maiden’s voice interrupts, asking politely if she can sit down. Cui scoots closer to Feng to make space, but when he looks up and sees the girl—he freezes.

Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao stop at a teahouse outside the city when the gates close for the night and are soon joined by a young girl in green, her maid, an old man, and a boy with a medicine chest.

The old man, Doctor Sun Jimin, strikes up a conversation with Cui, diagnosing him as someone with a long-standing illness. Cui politely declines help but accepts a small bottle of herbal pills.

Another traveler recognizes Doctor Sun and recounts how the physician once saved his daughter-in-law during childbirth and even paid for her treatment. The family later prospered and remained grateful to him.

The green-robed girl, introduced as Cui Jiuniang, praises Doctor Sun’s generosity and shares how he now works at Baoning Hall, waiving fees for ten poor patients daily.

Cui Jiuniang says she’s trying to become Doctor Sun’s apprentice, but he refuses because she comes from a noble family and sees her path as marriage, not medicine.

She insists she’s committed to learning medicine and will continue pleading with her family for permission to apprentice under Sun.

Feng Xiao, growing suspicious, asks if she belongs to the Cui clan of Boling, which she confirms. She invites them to attend the upcoming literary festival hosted by her family.

Feng pretends to be a wandering scholar named Pei Jingzhe and introduces Cui Buqu as “Feng Xiao.” Cui quickly flips the name, calling himself “Feng A-Gou,” a playful dig and callback to his childhood nickname.

Feng retaliates by jabbing Cui under the table, prompting Cui to call him a "rat" biting at his side. Cui Jiuniang falls for the act and anxiously looks for the supposed rodent.

Jiuniang explains the literary festival was started by her fourth uncle and has become a major annual event. She offers to introduce them to her grandfather, suggesting they stay at the Cui residence.

Though Feng pretends to hesitate, he quickly agrees when Jiuniang insists, clearly curious about Cui’s reaction and the hidden tension between him and his family.

That night, they check into an inn. Feng refuses to sleep on the dusty bed and steals all the clean bedding from their carriage to his room.

Cui visits him and finds Feng lounging half-naked with damp hair, snacking and listening to a porter read aloud a romantic novel—clearly making himself too comfortable.

When Cui asks if all top martial masters behave like this in private, Feng smugly invites him in with a teasing “Come in, A-Gou,” continuing their signature mix of flirtation, challenge, and exasperation.

Feng Xiao lounges confidently in their shared inn room, teasing Cui Buqu and offering him half the bed, noting how none of the other martial masters are as “handsome and thick-skinned” as himself.

The inn bed is filthy, and though Cui Buqu is usually fastidious, he reluctantly agrees to share the bed to avoid getting sick from sleeping on the floor.

Feng tosses coins to the porter and tries to sleep, but his constant turning keeps creaking the bed and disturbing the peace.

Frustrated, Cui Buqu sits up and demands quiet. Feng “innocently” claims he can’t sleep without an answer to a question—why Cui personally accompanied him to Boling instead of just giving directions.

Feng hints Cui has an ulterior motive and suspects it involves the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai or family ties to the Cui clan.

He specifically points out that Cui Jiuniang, the girl they met earlier, resembles Cui and could be his sister or cousin. He implies Cui might be hiding his identity from his family.

Cui says nothing, and Feng leans over only to discover that Cui has stuffed cotton in his ears and fallen sound asleep.

In a dream, Cui imagines throwing Feng into a pit and watching him shout helplessly below while he stands above with satisfaction.

The next morning, Cui Jiuniang is up early practicing the five-beast exercise, which she says Doctor Sun taught her. Feng compliments her and begins asking questions about her family.

She speaks proudly of her cousin Cui Fei, who is a local literary prodigy, and mentions other family members, including her father and uncles. She knows nothing of any secret family members.

Feng notes internally that the Cui family is prestigious and well-documented, making it hard for someone like Cui Buqu to disappear from the records unless he was deliberately erased or hidden.

When Cui appears, Jiuniang happily tells them breakfast is ready and promises to take them to meet her grandfather.

Cui coldly responds that her grandfather likely won’t see them and tries to decline the meeting. Jiuniang insists, believing Cui is just shy.

Feng notices the sarcasm in Cui’s voice when he praises her grandfather and drags him away before he says anything sharper.

Feng jokes that Cui must hate the Cui family and is moved that Cui still came with him, assuming it means something.

Cui corrects him coldly, explaining he didn’t fall ill because he left the family, but left because he was already sick and unwanted. He says he feels nothing—neither love nor hate—for the Cui clan.

Feng remains behind as Cui storms off coughing, grabs a sparrow out of the air, and scolds it as if it were Cui—saying he’s too smart, too stubborn, and too evasive.

He lets the bird go and reflects that no comparison can capture who Cui Buqu is. He’s not a weak bird or a pampered flower but someone who climbs cliffs and carves paths through sheer will.

Feng walks into the dining area to find Cui eating breakfast alone. Despite everything, he feels lighter just seeing him there—with two bowls of congee on the table, one partly eaten, clearly saved for him.

Cui Buqu is eating congee when Feng Xiao casually grabs the second bowl, assuming Cui saved it for him, which leads to playful bickering.

Feng shifts the conversation to serious matters, sharing that Lin Yong, heir of Yandang Mountain Estate, has left home and is now in Donghai Commandery—close to where Ning Shewo was last seen.

Cui confirms Ning Shewo reached Dongchu Province, just a day from Donghai. They suspect the two will soon meet.

Feng and Cui link this movement to the cryptic verses found on Duan Qihu’s corpse, which hinted at Donghai Commandery and Mount Jieshi as key locations.

They identify Mount Jieshi as symbolically tied to the poem's line: “To your side I will return if safe; if dead, my love will never fade,” linking it to a mountain and pavilion called “the mountains of returning” and “pavilion of love.”

Cui notes the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai are likely gathering powerful economic allies: Ning Shewo, leader of Jinhuan Guild (southern trade), and Lin Yong (northern wealth).

Cui questions their motivations, as they don’t seem ideologically aligned with the Thirteen Floors. Feng counters that everyone has a weakness: wealth, fear, or personal vendettas.

Feng reveals a secret about Lin Yong’s family—twenty years ago, Lin Yong’s father (the younger twin) inherited the estate after the elder twin mysteriously drowned. Feng suspects foul play.

Cui theorizes a darker twist: what if the “younger” twin is actually the elder who killed his brother and assumed his identity? Their identical appearances could’ve helped cover it up.

They are interrupted by Cui Jiuniang, dressed beautifully, who is clearly trying to impress Feng. She excitedly tells them her grandfather, Cui Yong, will host them for a meal.

At the Cui residence, they meet Cui Yong, whose demeanor is friendly toward guests but turns sharply suspicious when he looks at Cui Buqu, showing recognition.

Cui Buqu denies having family and refuses to acknowledge any relation to Cui Yong.

Feng and Cui are invited to a literary festival being hosted at the estate, and Cui Yong appears particularly interested in Feng’s origins, asking about his family and heritage.

During introductions, a dramatic fight breaks out: Cui Lin, one of Cui Yong’s sons, demands a divorce from his wife over a mistress, creating a scandalous scene.

Cui Buqu excuses himself, but Cui Lin tries to stop him, saying he looks “familiar.” Cui Yong sharply stops Cui Lin with a single word: “Sanlang.”

Feng quietly speculates on family dynamics and notes how unremarkable Cui Lin is, which makes it hard to imagine him being Cui Buqu’s father.

Later, Cui Buqu reveals his real reason for coming: the Zuoyue Bureau discovered that Cui Yong’s eldest son has been secretly funding Linchuan Academy in Southern Chen through the Jinhuan Guild.

Cui admits he doesn’t hate the whole Cui family—just Cui Yong and Cui Lin—and wants to witness their downfall with his own eyes.

Meanwhile, Cui Lin, stewing in frustration, grows obsessed with Cui Buqu’s resemblance to someone from his past. When a maid tells him Feng renamed her “Yu Mo” (meaning “surplus jasmine”), Cui Lin freezes in shock—the name triggers a haunting memory.

The name “Yu Mo” triggers a traumatic reaction in Cui Lin, who is haunted by past shame and realizes the guest named “Feng Xiao” may in fact be his own illegitimate son, long thought dead.

Panicked and drenched by rain, Cui Lin runs through the Cui estate to inform his father Cui Yong, who is hosting the return of his most promising son, Cui Pei.

Cui Lin blurts out that “Feng Xiao” used the name “Yu Mo,” the name of the woman he once assaulted—confirming to Cui Yong and Cui Pei that the youth they believed dead may be alive and seeking revenge.

Flashback reveals Lady Yu, a gentle and talented woman once rescued by a young man claiming to be Cui Hui, was actually saved by Cui Lin, who lied about his identity.

Lady Yu was later married into the Cui family under the belief that Cui Hui had saved her, only to realize the truth—but she still fell in love with Cui Hui (Cui-erlang), not the liar Cui Lin.

Lady Yu and Cui Hui lived harmoniously until Cui Hui died young, leaving her widowed and devoted to his memory.

Overcome with jealousy and regret, Cui Lin assaulted Lady Yu. She reported it to Cui Yong, who beat and imprisoned Cui Lin but did not expel him, fearing the scandal would ruin the family and Lady Yu.

Lady Yu later discovered she was pregnant from the assault but chose to stay silent and raise the child alone in another villa, refusing to see Cui Lin again.

That child was Cui Buqu.

Doctor Sun Jimin was summoned to treat the child, but by the time Cui Pei arrived to check on him, he was told the boy had died. A gravestone was erected at his supposed burial site.

Now, Cui Lin realizes the truth: Cui Buqu faked his death and returned under the alias “Feng Xiao” to confront the family.

Meanwhile, Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao visit the grave of Lady Yu. The grave bears no epitaph—just “Grave of Lady Yu”—symbolizing how history erased her.

Cui Buqu recounts her life: her love for Cui Hui, her integrity after his death, the betrayal by Cui Lin, her decision to stay despite it, and the child she bore.

Feng Xiao is visibly shaken by the story. Cui Buqu, however, speaks with cold detachment, as if retelling someone else’s pain rather than his own.

The chapter ends with Cui Buqu confirming he is Lady Yu’s son, born of violence but raised with resilience, and that the full story is far from over.

The chapter continues the tragic story of Lady Yu, who was deeply in love with her husband Cui-er until his early death.

After being assaulted by Cui Lin, she discovered she was pregnant and struggled emotionally between feelings of betrayal and the innocence of the unborn child.

Her father’s sudden illness and death, followed by her mother’s decline, left her without support. She hid her pregnancy to protect the Cui family’s reputation and her mother’s health.

Lady Yu ultimately decided to keep the child, hoping to preserve a connection to Cui-er. She proposed to Cui Yong that the child could be passed off as an adopted heir to continue Cui-er’s lineage.

Cui Yong agreed, seeing the logic in the plan, and placed her in a villa with loyal attendants, but the secret eventually leaked.

Lady Lu, Cui Lin’s wife, enraged by the scandal, tampered with Lady Yu’s medicine to cause a miscarriage. Lady Yu discovered the plot too late to prevent damage to her and the child’s health.

The child was born after a difficult labor—sickly, slow to speak, and physically weak. Cui Yong, disappointed and fearing scandal, regretted sparing him.

Lady Yu sensed danger and eventually entrusted the boy to Cui Pei, the fourth son of Cui Yong, who had a kind heart and agreed to protect him.

After Lady Yu died, Cui Pei begged Cui Yong to let the boy live. Cui Yong relented on the condition that the child be raised as a servant, with his identity kept hidden.

The boy, Cui Buqu, was bullied and ignored, given demeaning nicknames like “A-Gou” and “A-Mao.” He survived illness and abuse through sheer will and silence.

Denied education, he secretly eavesdropped on lessons and taught himself to read and write. His only protector, Cui Pei, was often away.

When nine years old, after a near-fatal illness, he convinced Doctor Sun Jimin to help fake his death and smuggle him out of the Cui family forever.

He adopted the name Buqu, meaning “won’t go [to death],” to declare his will to survive despite all odds and to fulfill his mother’s wish of preserving the Cui name.

He traveled south with a merchant group, learned accounting, and was adopted by the kind merchant leader—until the man was killed by the Qixing Gang.

Cui later avenged him by manipulating Linchuan Academy into destroying the gang.

Eventually, he met his mentor Fan Yun and rose through the ranks to become the head of the Zuoyue Bureau, always hiding his origins until now.

He recounts all this to Feng Xiao at Lady Yu’s grave, soaking in rain, unflinching, as a way to close the circle of his past and acknowledge his survival.

Feng is deeply affected by the story, realizing how fiercely Cui fought to live and retain his dignity in a life shaped by betrayal and pain.

Cui says he chose “Buqu” not just as defiance, but as a vow—he will live, no matter how sick or hated he is.

Feng lifts the soaked and exhausted Cui onto his back, bickering playfully to lighten the mood as they return to the Cui manor, ready to confront the present with the past laid bare behind them.

The Cui family is thrown into turmoil after suspecting that "Feng Xiao" is actually Cui Buqu, the illegitimate son of Cui Lin and Lady Yu.

Cui Lin (Cui-san) initially panics, haunted by guilt and fear over his past assault of Lady Yu, but quickly rationalizes that the Cui family is too powerful to be touched—even if the boy survived.

Cui Pei, the more compassionate fourth son, is disgusted by Cui Lin's excuses, reminding him that the child only ran away because of unbearable abuse, including poisoning attempts orchestrated by Cui Lin's wife.

The patriarch Cui Yong dismisses their conflict, believing the family's prestige will shield them. He views the emperor himself as less threatening than the Cui clan's legacy.

Cui-dalang, the eldest son, confirms that “Feng Xiao” might actually be the Deputy Chief of the Jiejian Bureau, which alarms them, though Cui Yong still refuses to believe they are in real danger.

Meanwhile, a servant announces that the guests (Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao) have returned soaked from the rain and will join them soon.

As the family eats together, Cui Buqu enters with calm confidence, openly declaring he has returned not just for the literary festival but also to pay respects to his late mother.

This shocks the family into silence. Cui Pei recognizes him immediately, confirming his identity through resemblance to Lady Yu.

When pressed, Cui Buqu confirms his mother’s identity, and his demeanor becomes colder and more aggressive, unlike the sarcastic or teasing persona Feng Xiao usually sees.

Cui Yong accuses him of being ungrateful, saying the Cui family raised him. Other members, including Cui-dalang, suggest reconciliation or reabsorption into the family.

Cui Buqu coldly recounts the abuse he suffered, including attempts to poison him as a child. He mocks their idea of “kindness” and tears apart their narrative of familial unity.

Cui Pei begs for forgiveness, offering to adopt Cui Buqu as his own son. Cui Buqu refuses, saying his name is Cui Buqu—“won’t go [to death]”—a vow to survive and reject his abusers.

Feng Xiao backs him up, warning the family that airing these secrets could destroy their public image, especially with Cui Buqu’s current influence.

Cui Yong offers to legitimize him into the family to “protect” him, but both Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao are amused by the offer and see it as delusional arrogance.

Cui Buqu firmly declares he has no intention of rejoining the family, stating that the surname Cui is only to honor his mother’s last wish, not to align with a clan he despises.

He tells them even if the entire Cui estate were handed to him, he wouldn’t want it.

With those words, Cui Buqu turns and leaves, disrupting the family’s self-delusions like a thunderbolt—graceful, sharp, and untouchable.

After Cui Buqu and Feng Xiao leave, the Cui family is left stunned and divided; Cui-san is overwhelmed with guilt, while Cui Yong regrets not confirming Cui Buqu’s real identity.

Cui-da suspects Cui Buqu will cause trouble at the literary festival and wants to expel him and Feng Xiao from the estate.

Cui Pei pleads for a peaceful resolution, arguing that they wronged Cui Buqu and should seek reconciliation rather than further conflict.

Tensions escalate when Cui-da claims they were generous in not killing Cui Buqu at birth, enraging Cui Pei, who points to Cui-san as the one who ruined the family name.

Cui-san, desperate and defensive, accuses Cui Pei of lusting after Lady Yu and insinuates that Cui Buqu might be Cui Pei’s child, provoking a fight.

Cui-da punches Cui-san, orders him gagged and dragged away, and Cui Yong silently approves, doing nothing to intervene.

Cui Pei argues that if they drive Cui Buqu away, he might expose everything to the county magistrate or worse—news might reach the emperor.

Cui Yong remains pragmatic, unwilling to acknowledge Cui Buqu formally into the family due to fear of scandal and the reaction of younger generations.

Meanwhile, back in the guest garden, Cui Buqu confidently predicts the family will not dare throw them out before the literary festival ends, since it would risk public disgrace.

Feng questions Cui Pei’s failure to protect Cui Buqu, but Cui responds that Cui Pei did what he could, given the limits of his position, and that he holds no grudge.

Feng reflects that without Cui Pei’s failure, he may have never met a rival like Cui Buqu, hinting at deeper affection.

The two fall into their usual teasing, with Cui Buqu mocking bored, privileged elites like Feng, and Feng firing back with examples of Cui’s own risky behavior.

Cui sneezes violently from the rain and assigns Feng to fend off Cui Pei if he comes to talk, noting he has no guards nearby.

Feng is momentarily stunned by Cui’s rare gentle tone and calls him “Erlang,” only to realize Cui Buqu was faking his sickly state again.

The next day dawns with the Cui clan’s famous literary festival underway, a grand event attracting scholars and dignitaries from across the region.

Cui Pei, respected for his talent, is uneasy as Cui-dalang boasts of plans to watch and expel Cui Buqu and Feng at the first sign of trouble.

As officials and nobles gather, Cui Yong gives a grand welcome speech, declaring he’ll gift a legendary zither named Yuyin to the festival’s top poet.

In the crowd, Cui Pei spots Cui Buqu standing with Feng Xiao under a pear tree, looking calm and ordinary—but the tension is mounting.

At the literary festival, Cui Yong announces the legendary zither Yuyin as the prize for the best poem, shocking even Cui Buqu, who jokes about whether Feng Xiao will steal it openly or sneakily.

Feng Xiao boasts that he’ll simply win it with poetry and refuses to reveal his poem ahead of time, claiming it’s worth as much as the zither.

The announcement causes a stir, drawing intense competition from poets hoping to impress the judges and win fame—or the zither.

Cui Buqu notices that Yuan Sansi, the new commandery governor, is present and recognizes him as Yuan Sheng, Lady Yu’s former shixiong (martial brother), now returned under a new name.

Cui Buqu suspects Yuan Sansi may have returned to Boling to investigate Lady Yu’s fate, and possibly aid in avenging her.

Feng Xiao jokes about his upcoming performance and steps onto the stage, stunning everyone with his beauty and confidence.

He delivers a deliberately terrible poem—essentially free verse declaring he’s only there for the zither Yuyin—which causes stunned silence and then laughter from the crowd.

The head judge, though charmed by Feng’s looks, tells him the poem is subpar, and even Cui Yong mocks him, saying people might think he’s a lost grandson if he wins with that.

Feng shamelessly argues that “exceptionally bad” still counts as exceptional, but is ultimately dismissed from the stage, unfazed and still smiling.

Meanwhile, Cui Buqu speaks privately to Yuan Sansi, telling him to stay and watch, hinting something explosive is about to happen involving the Cui family’s collusion with the Southern dynasty.

As Cui-dalang arrives to intervene, Cui Buqu openly accuses the Cui family of treason, saying they’ve aided Linchuan Academy and even sheltered an assassin who once targeted the emperor.

Cui-dalang tries to guilt-trip Cui Buqu, bringing up his mother’s reputation and claiming they tried to protect it, but Cui Buqu reveals Yuan Sansi’s identity as Lady Yu’s shixiong, deepening the blow.

At Cui Buqu’s command, Zuoyue Bureau agents reveal themselves throughout the garden, kneeling before him and confirming the operation is complete.

Cui Buqu orders the arrest of Cui-dalang and demands his quarters be searched for further evidence, revealing this plan had been in motion for days.

The agents report that Cui Xu (Cui-dalang) has been supporting Linchuan Academy and was involved in spreading rumors during a famine to incite revolt, sending grain to the south instead of feeding the poor.

Cui Yong is devastated as the truth unfolds, realizing his eldest son’s actions may bring ruin to their noble family’s reputation.

Guests at the festival are horrified. The once weak and sickly Cui Buqu now stands powerful, commanding black-clad agents as the Chief of the Zuoyue Bureau, a feared and elite intelligence force.

Even Cui Pei is stunned as he watches everything unfold, frozen in place.

Cui Jiuniang, standing next to Feng Xiao, turns to him in shock and asks, “If he’s the chief of the Zuoyue Bureau… then who are you?”

Cui Yong is in disbelief as he watches Zuoyue Bureau guards kneel to Cui Buqu, realizing the boy he once disregarded has become a powerful official beyond his control.

He had hoped Cui Buqu would quietly ask for justice or concessions, but he never imagined he’d strike directly at Cui-dalang, the Cui family's heir.

Cui Yong tries to delay the arrest, arguing that such an action during the literary festival would dishonor noble clans and provoke backlash, even hinting at taking it up with the emperor.

The county magistrate and various noble guests also plead for leniency, asking that the arrest wait until the festival ends.

Commandery Governor Yuan (Yuan Sansi) remains silent, subtly siding with Cui Buqu and refusing to intervene.

Cui Buqu, unmoved by threats or appeals, signals his men to arrest Cui-dalang, declaring the evidence of treason and collusion with a foreign nation is conclusive.

He warns the nobles: if they’re accomplices, they’ll be arrested too—his tone calm but chilling.

Cui-dalang screams for his father, but Cui Yong is powerless to stop the guards. He's caught by Cui Pei as he nearly collapses.

Desperate, Cui Yong accuses Cui Buqu of abusing power for personal revenge. Cui Buqu calmly replies that he has no grudge, subtly daring him to speak of Lady Yu.

When Cui Yong almost blurts out Cui Buqu’s origins, Cui Pei stops him, and the unspoken truth hangs in the air, suffocating.

Cui Yong finally realizes Cui Buqu has risen so high in rank—Zuoyue Bureau Chief—that the Cui family can no longer touch him.

Wracked with regret, he laments not confirming Cui Buqu’s death years ago, nor accepting him into the family when he had the chance.

Cui Pei pleads for leniency for his brother, asking if the arrest could be postponed until after their father’s birthday, but Cui Buqu coldly refuses.

More misfortune strikes as the assistant county magistrate arrives, announcing Doctor Sun Jimin has been arrested for prescribing fatal medicine. Cui-san and the pharmacy staff are implicated.

Seeing the family in freefall, Cui Yong declares bitterly, “You’ve won!” He suspects Cui Buqu orchestrated even this, though it’s actually unrelated.

Cui Buqu volunteers to observe the case alongside Governor Yuan, leaving with the officials as stunned nobles scatter and guests leave the failed festival.

Cui Yong retreats to his study, devastated. He asks Cui Pei if kneeling before Cui Buqu might change his mind. Cui Pei replies honestly—it wouldn’t.

Alone, Cui Yong reflects that his real mistake was not killing Cui Buqu earlier, revealing his true remorse isn’t for his cruelty, but his failure to eliminate a threat.

He tells Cui Pei that of all his sons, he valued Pei most—but laments his soft heart. Pei remains silent.

When Pei questions if Cui-dalang truly committed treason, Cui Yong admits Dalang was mediocre and likely acted recklessly to prove himself.

Pei asks if Doctor Sun can be saved. Cui Yong replies that if Cui Buqu has any conscience, he’ll spare him—because Sun helped fake Cui Buqu’s death years ago.

Cui Jiuniang interrupts, revealing that the man with Cui Buqu is Feng Xiao, Deputy Chief of the Jiejian Bureau, and potentially able to intervene.

Cui Pei confirms this with her and goes with Jiuniang to invite Feng Xiao.

Feng is unfazed, teasing that he expected Cui Yong would come personally. He agrees to visit the old man—amused but intrigued.

On the way, Cui Pei hesitantly asks how Cui Buqu has fared, and Feng affirms that he’s well respected, powerful, and no longer needs the Cui name.

At the study, Cui Yong kneels before Feng Xiao, begging him to save Cui Xu (Cui-dalang) from execution.

Feng makes him grovel and offers only sarcasm, demanding compliments and bribes.

Cui Yong offers the zither Yuyin and a priceless jade artifact, even suggesting Cui Jiuniang be given to Feng as a wife or concubine, humiliating himself to secure help.

Feng laughs, clearly enjoying the power reversal and Cui Yong’s desperation, leaving the outcome of his decision unknown—for now.

Cui Buqu wakes up ill after standing in the rain the night before, coughing and sneezing but refusing rest or treatment despite Commandery Governor Yuan's concern.

He joins Governor Yuan and the Anping county magistrate for the investigation into the sudden death of a pregnant woman who had taken medicine prescribed by Doctor Sun Jimin.

The deceased’s husband testifies she was healthy before taking the medicine and had a miscarriage and died from blood loss shortly after taking two doses of the decoction.

When the leftover ingredients are examined, Cui Buqu identifies toad venom and henbane, both toxic, in the mix. He immediately suspects something is wrong.

Doctor Sun adamantly denies ever prescribing toad venom and claims the ingredients were meant for Lady Lu, not the deceased, Lady Chen.

The pharmacy assistant admits he may have accidentally swapped the packets of medicine between the two women. Both had come for treatment around the same time.

This confirms that Lady Chen died from ingesting medicine meant for Lady Lu, which should not have been fatal if correctly prepared.

Despite the mix-up, the county magistrate insists that Doctor Sun must take responsibility as the overseeing physician. He’s offered leniency if he pleads guilty to manslaughter, but he refuses—maintaining his innocence.

Unexpectedly, Lady Lu (Cui-san’s wife) requests to testify. She claims she was the true target and accuses Doctor Sun of attempted murder.

Lady Lu reveals Cui-san has a mistress, and that woman pressured him to promise marriage once Lady Lu was gone. Lady Lu believes they bribed Doctor Sun to poison her.

Doctor Sun is outraged by the accusation, insisting he would never violate his oath or accept a bribe to kill.

Lady Lu tells the court to search Doctor Sun’s home for silver bribes and suggests questioning the mistress directly.

Cui Buqu and Governor Yuan silently watch, allowing the drama to unfold, though Lady Lu notices Cui Buqu studying her coldly, making her uneasy.

Cui-san arrives, panicked and shaken. Lady Lu continues her accusation in front of everyone.

She boldly suggests that the mistress—who is brought forward—resembles Lady Yu, Cui Buqu’s mother, implying Cui-san intentionally chose someone who looked like the woman he once raped.

This is a veiled attack meant to provoke or shame Cui Buqu, but he remains unfazed, coolly watching her attempt to manipulate the court.

Governor Yuan is disgusted by the mistress’s resemblance to Lady Yu and realizes the depth of Cui-san’s depravity.

Lady Lu, however, begins to feel unease as her calculated plan doesn’t land as expected—Cui Buqu doesn’t react with rage but cold detachment.

The chapter ends with Lady Lu starting to panic, realizing her attempt to redirect guilt may have only worsened her situation.

The investigation into Lady Chen’s death continues in court, with Lady Lu accusing Doctor Sun Jimin of accepting a bribe to poison her.

A small bag of silver is found, which Lady Lu claims proves Doctor Sun was paid off. The mistress, visibly distressed, insists she only paid a pharmacy fee and denies knowing about the silver.

Cui-san explodes, accidentally revealing the mistress is pregnant, claiming he asked her to see Doctor Sun to prevent miscarriage.

Lady Lu spins this as a murder plot motivated by jealousy, saying the mistress wanted her dead to marry Cui-san.

Lady Lu claims Doctor Sun has ties to the mistress’s family, trying to paint a picture of conspiracy. Doctor Sun admits he knew her father but insists there’s no deeper connection.

Magistrate He warns Doctor Sun that murder is a capital crime and urges him to speak if there’s anything to confess, but Doctor Sun remains silent, saying he can’t cure wicked hearts.

Just as the court prepares to detain everyone, Cui Pei arrives, having rushed to collect evidence of Doctor Sun’s innocence.

Cui Pei presents over a thousand old prescriptions and a petition with fifty fingerprints from grateful patients, vouching for Doctor Sun’s integrity.

Cui Pei declares that if given more time, half of Anping would sign in support. His sincerity moves the court but isn’t enough to immediately stop the legal process.

Lady Lu protests his defense, claiming the entire family is against her. Cui-san also erupts in rage. When he insults Cui Buqu, Cui Pei kicks him down in front of everyone.

Governor Yuan demands punishment for disrespect in court. Cui-san is whipped thirty times, gagged, and left half-dead and humiliated.

Cui Buqu inspects the two prescriptions and notices the ink is different. The fatal prescription was written in high-grade pine ink, unlike the usual cheap ink used at Baoning Hall.

He orders ink samples brought from Doctor Sun’s residence and Cui-san’s study, suspecting forgery.

Cui-san’s body reacts instinctively in panic, revealing his guilt before any proof is presented.

Cui Buqu explains that Cui-san intended to poison Lady Lu, but the packets got mixed up, accidentally killing Lady Chen instead.

Cui-san forged the prescription, added toad venom, and tried to frame Doctor Sun. Cui Buqu confronts him directly, while the pharmacy assistant breaks down and confirms the scheme.

The assistant magistrate brings back ink and wastepaper from Cui-san’s study. Among them are many practice copies of Doctor Sun’s handwriting and the forged prescription—damning evidence.

Cui Buqu declares Cui-san wrote the fatal prescription, tried to kill his wife, and let an innocent woman die instead.

Lady Lu confesses she knew her husband wanted her dead. She chose not to report it in hopes of preserving the family name and rekindling love. Her silence indirectly allowed Lady Chen’s death.

Cui Buqu calls their whole display revolting and suggests Lady Lu follow Cui-san to the grave if she truly loves him.

Magistrate He promises a full and fair trial. Cui Buqu and Governor Yuan leave the court.

Outside, Yuan Sansi thanks Cui Buqu for avenging Lady Yu and offers to visit her grave with him.

At the grave, Yuan Sansi offers to reinter Lady Yu at the Yu family tomb, but Cui Buqu refuses, saying she’s beyond comfort and reincarnation. He tells Yuan that had he kept his engagement, Lady Yu might have had a better life.

Yuan admits he fled due to the burden of the Yuan imperial treasure, a secret passed from his dying father, fearing it would endanger those close to him.

Cui Buqu reveals he knows the secret of the Yuan treasure and that Yuan’s old sworn brother betrayed him by leaking it to Liuli Palace, where Cui’s master learned it.

Cui assures Yuan he hasn’t reported this to the emperor and agrees to keep Yuan’s name out of it. Yuan thanks him, relieved, and promises to tend to Lady Yu’s grave going forward.

After Yuan leaves, Cui Buqu kneels alone at his mother’s grave, carefully cleaning it with a handkerchief.

He reflects that he is not like kind-hearted people like Lady Yu or Doctor Sun—his heart is stone, and he will be the one to destroy all monsters in the dark.

He murmurs to the grave, telling his mother to reincarnate and not be his mother again in her next life.

At that moment, a familiar silk ribbon drops down in front of him.

He looks up to see Feng Xiao hanging upside down from a tree, smirking: “Oh, my good brother! Fancy meeting you here!”

Feng Xiao drops from a tree where he had been eavesdropping on Cui Buqu’s conversation with Yuan Sansi, though he insists it was “open listening.”

He jokes that if Cui finds the Yuan treasure, he should split it with him. Cui retorts he’ll turn it over to the court and Feng can ask the emperor for his share.

Feng accuses Cui of telling him about Yuan to distract him and conceal the treasure’s location. Cui sarcastically agrees, which only amuses Feng further.

Feng grabs Cui by the shoulder and declares that Cui confided in him because he’s the only one qualified to listen, claiming he understands Cui’s loneliness.

Exhausted, Cui tries to return to the carriage, only for Feng to jump inside first and nag him about making the coachman wait.

When Cui climbs in, he nearly slips due to the muddy ground, prompting Feng to burst out laughing and receive a smack to the head.

Feng rambles on about why he accompanied Cui—because Qiao Xian was injured and Zhangsun was tied up in the capital—and wanted to ensure Cui’s safety.

Cui interrupts to ask if he got the zither Yuyin, and Feng boasts he got that and more: Cui Yong offered him Jiuniang as a concubine.

He jokes that with how desperate Cui Yong was, he could’ve asked for his wife and still been indulged.

Cui Buqu muses on the Cui family’s downfall, stating Cui-dalang is doomed by treason, Cui-san will be convicted for murder, and that Cui Yong was arrogant to think Jiuniang’s hand could buy leniency.

Feng praises Cui’s cunning in manipulating events at Boling, including distracting him with the zither while secretly tracking the treasure.

Feng proposes they partner up again to explore the treasure’s hiding place, saying only the two of them together can navigate its traps.

Cui suspects Feng would just push him into said traps, but Feng claims he’d be lonely without him.

Feng notes Cui Pei’s partial complicity in the past but asks if Cui plans to punish him too. Cui says no—Cui Pei once showed him small kindness, and he considers their debts now settled.

As Cui lies down, Feng massages his temples, channeling gentle internal energy into his scalp to relieve his migraine.

Cui had grown used to Qiao Xian’s help during his attacks, and though annoyed by Feng’s chatter, he tolerates it in exchange for the relief.

Eventually, Cui relaxes and falls asleep under Feng’s care, breathing evenly as his headache fades.

Feng watches his sleeping form and reflects that Cui is cold on the outside, but within him is a soft, warm heart, hidden even from himself.

Cui later wakes up in an inn, well-rested, and finds Feng Xiao dining nearby, claiming the food’s aroma would have ruined his own room.

Feng urges him to eat, teasing that if he doesn’t, he’ll eat it all himself. Cui joins him reluctantly.

Feng reveals Cui Pei visited but didn’t plead for Cui-dalang. Instead, the family asked Cui Buqu to spare Cui Fei, the next-generation heir.

Cui Buqu notes this is just another attempt to bribe him with promises of future power, and Feng jokes that if Cui Buqu declared himself heir, they’d agree in a heartbeat.

Feng offers to tell Cui Buqu his own life story to balance things out, but when Cui refuses, he tells it anyway.

His story? He was an adorable, wealthy child who attracted admiring maidens and once pretended to be kidnapped just to find the hideout of child traffickers—only to be rescued by swooning fans.

As Feng continues spinning absurd tales of his beauty and mischief, Cui Buqu can’t finish eating and prays for lightning to strike him down to end his suffering.

After dining with Feng Xiao, Cui Buqu has strange dreams where Feng’s voice echoes persistently, leaving him annoyed and unsettled upon waking.

He seriously considers escaping out a window when there’s a knock on the door, but it’s only Cui Pei, not Feng, sparing him from that “tragedy.”

Cui Buqu tells Cui Pei to wait at a nearby teahouse, relieved at not having to deal with Feng first thing in the morning.

At the teahouse, Cui Pei is visibly nervous. He reflects on how the Cui family is collapsing after recent events—members are angry, weeping, or cursing Cui Buqu.

Cui Pei recalls how Cui Yong instructed him to be cautious and agree to any terms Cui Buqu proposed, though Cui Pei fears more what it means if no terms are offered.

Alongside him is Cui Jiuniang, still emotionally shaken from her parents’ arrest. She struggles with conflicting feelings toward Cui Buqu.

When Cui Buqu arrives, he immediately asks if they’ve come to plead for leniency. Cui Pei denies this, claiming he just wants to see him.

Cui Buqu coldly asks if Cui Yong would have regretted anything had he died years ago. Cui Pei can’t answer, knowing the truth is no.

Cui Buqu reveals that Lady Yu was never properly buried, making any talk of relocating her grave pointless.

Cui Buqu then asks Cui Pei if he wants to become head of the Cui clan, explaining that all other heirs have fallen and Pei is the only viable successor.

He urges Cui Pei to seize the opportunity, warning that failing to act will leave the Cui family trampled by others. Pei takes the words to heart, though he doesn’t respond immediately.

Cui Pei offers Cui Buqu a secret prescription from the family’s collection, reviewed by Doctor Sun, to help with his chronic health issues. Cui accepts it after hesitation.

Cui Buqu promises that if Cui Pei rises as head of the family, he may consider petitioning the emperor to spare the innocent women and children of the clan.

He also jokes that if so, Cui Jiuniang won’t have to be given to Feng Xiao as a concubine, shocking her. She asks if that was truly offered, and Pei avoids answering.

Jiuniang finally asks if Cui Buqu is really her brother. He doesn’t respond directly but urges her to pursue her dream of studying medicine and not wallow in guilt or inaction.

As Cui Buqu leaves, Jiuniang drops to her knees, apologizing for her family’s sins and asking him to live happily, even if she can’t call him “brother.”

Moved, Cui Pei silently observes her tears and considers that perhaps this small moment of warmth is why Cui Buqu didn’t destroy the family entirely.

At the governor’s residence, Cui Buqu finds Feng Xiao and Yuan Sansi laughing together, clearly bonding over the prospect of treasure.

Yuan reveals a hidden bookmark, passed down as part of the secret tied to the Yuan imperial treasure.

Inside the bookmark is a tiny cloth painting depicting a snowy mountain, a cave, and a bubbling stream—clearly a clue.

Though vague, Yuan declares he’s identified the location as Mount Tiannan in Heng Province, marking the next step in their journey.

The group travels to Heng Province, once the capital of the Wei dynasty, to investigate the potential location of the legendary Yuan imperial treasure.

Near a remote mountain teahouse, a woodcutter warns them of incoming rain and advises against ascending the mountain.

A Zuoyue guard asks about Mount Tiannan, and the woodcutter identifies a nearby peak known locally as Ruyi Mountain, which scholars say may have another historical name—possibly their target.

Cui Buqu, Feng Xiao, and two guards begin the climb, ignoring the woodcutter’s warning, determined to beat the rain.

Feng teases Cui about the incoming storm, but Cui confidently predicts the rain will fall on the neighboring peak—not theirs.

A gust of wind nearly sends Cui tumbling off the path, but Feng catches him instantly, mocking him for being a burden.

They reach a hidden cave entrance halfway up the mountain, obscured by thick foliage and impossible to spot without knowing what to look for.

Cui identifies the site using several subtle clues: the gentle slope of the trail despite the steep peak, drag marks in the stone suggesting prior transport of heavy tools, and the unnatural structure of the terrain.

Feng remains skeptical, joking about how the cave is too narrow to store large treasure or armor, but Cui insists the location is correct and the clue from Yuan Sansi matches the geography.

Inside the cave entrance, deep grooves in the ground confirm human activity. Cui explains the site was engineered to be discreet—easy to overlook, deadly for the curious.

Cui insists on entering despite his health. Feng protests, saying it’s pointless to risk himself when he might need saving.

Cui retorts that only he can recognize ancient trap designs, making him essential regardless of physical weakness.

Feng, half-annoyed and half-impressed, questions if Cui is worried about him. Cui replies he’s concerned only because Feng’s survival is vital to his own safety.

They enter the cave, immediately enveloped in darkness and oppressive, damp air. Cui warns the others not to touch the walls, suggesting potential traps even in the entrance.

The chapter ends with the team vanishing into the cave, stepping into the unknown with the long-lost treasure of a fallen empire possibly lying within—and countless hidden dangers ahead.

As they enter the dark cave in search of the Yuan treasure, Cui Buqu warns the group not to touch the walls, which are coated with glowing silver residue from silver dust butterflies, toxic insects rarely found in the north.

The group passes through the tunnel, and Cui Buqu notices the floor tiles are engraved with peonies and lotus patterns, an unnecessary decoration if this were just a relic storehouse—implying this was meant to serve as a royal refuge.

Sensing danger, Cui tells everyone to back up immediately. Feng Xiao reacts quickly and pulls him back, but a Zuoyue guard is too slow and has the tip of his nose sliced off by a hidden blade trap.

Feng confirms the blade isn’t poisoned, and Cui explains he noticed the subtle difference in tile height as a clue to the trap’s presence—each tile part of a coded sequence meant to warn insiders and deceive intruders.

As they proceed, a strange mist begins to fall from above, resembling cave rain. Cui deduces they are on the lower level of a multi-level trap, with the treasure likely on the floor above.

They enter a vast cavern filled with stalagmites and hanging vines. Cui Buqu leads, advancing cautiously, wary of more hidden traps.

Suddenly, one of the guards disappears with a scream, then Cui Buqu, Feng Xiao, and the remaining guard also vanish, leaving each of them isolated in total darkness.

The guard tries to relight his torch but is seized by an unseen force and dragged away before he can react.

It is revealed that Cui Buqu is still standing in place, having sensed something wrong with the stalagmites but too late to prevent the group from triggering the mechanism.

He realizes they’ve all been caught in a massive formation: an Ursa Major Twin Jade Array, modeled after the seven-star constellation, each trap linked and layered.

The trap splits the group into separate subarrays where they are physically close but completely unreachable, like distant stars.

The array is based on a complex xiangqi endgame, specifically the “Gathering of Seven Stars,” nearly impossible to solve without deep knowledge.

Cui begins working his way out by tracing a mental solution to the array’s logic and carefully maneuvering through the darkness using touch and memory.

After what appears to be aimless wandering, he finally escapes the array, finding himself in a faintly lit corridor.

He considers going back to save the others, but just as he turns, a familiar voice stops him.

Yuan Sansi appears, standing in the light, though his face is obscured. Cui instantly recognizes his voice and names him aloud.

The chapter ends with the shocking twist that Yuan Sansi is present inside the cave—implying his deeper involvement in the mystery surrounding the treasure and traps.

Cui Buqu is confronted by Yuan Sansi, who reveals his identity openly. Cui admits he suspected something after Yuan conveniently appeared in Boling as commandery governor.

Cui deduced that Yuan’s presence at that moment and his connection to Lady Yu was a calculated move to earn his trust while controlling the investigation into the treasure.

Yuan confirms he is truly Lady Yu’s shixiong and was taken in and raised by the Yu family, but left to forge his own path, driven by ambition and a desire for more than a quiet, scholarly life.

Cui accuses him of joining the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai to fulfill those ambitions. Yuan denies it was about revenge or hatred, instead praising the group’s reach and promise of power.

When Cui mocks the Thirteen Floors’ grand claims, Yuan hints at Cui’s value, suggesting that once he hears the truth, he might join them.

Yuan then drops a major bombshell: he was the white-clad assassin who ambushed Cui’s carriage at the Qingli Garden banquet during the Dragon Boat Festival.

He says he purposely held back that night, proving his strength. His martial prowess rivaled Feng Xiao’s, and he had since risen as both an official and a hidden master.

Yuan’s dual identity—court official and elite rebel—explains how the Thirteen Floors infiltrated the banquet, almost assassinated key royals, and evaded the Bureau’s suspicion.

Cui presses him about his goals. Yuan insists the Thirteen Floors aren’t merely seeking rebellion but see the entire world as a chessboard, aiming to remake it on their terms.

When Cui asks where the true leader of the group is, Yuan deflects, saying there’s no need for Yi-xiansheng to appear. Instead, someone “dear” to Cui has missed him greatly.

Yuan invites Cui to meet this mysterious guest and assures him that Feng Xiao and the others are safe.

Despite his instinctive unease, Cui throws away his walking stick and walks forward, determined to face whatever awaits.

Inside the chamber, he is stunned to see his former teacher, Fan Yun, alive and well, seated peacefully on a cattail mat.

Fan Yun greets him warmly, chiding his haggard appearance like a concerned mentor, but Cui Buqu’s blood runs cold at the sight.

Cui confirms Fan Yun’s identity aloud and immediately confronts him for betraying his ideals and joining the Thirteen Floors.

Fan Yun maintains his calm demeanor and justifies his actions by claiming he’s still pursuing the Fan family legacy—to serve a wise ruler and guide the world to peace.

Cui ridicules that claim, saying the Thirteen Floors are parasites, not visionaries.

Fan Yun reminds Cui that his sharp nature is a double-edged sword—useful, but dangerous when turned inward.

Cui then pieces together that the deadly Ursa Major Twin Jade Array they encountered was one Fan Yun had taught him, reinforcing how deeply Fan Yun planned this.

Fan Yun confirms the treasure exists and this cave was built by Emperor Wei as a secret refuge—but it’s already been emptied by the Thirteen Floors.

With grim realization, Cui sees that Yuan Sansi gave up his clan’s fortune to serve as a spy and that Fan Yun was always orchestrating events from the shadows.

The chapter ends with the three men—Cui Buqu, Yuan Sansi, and Fan Yun—seated in eerie harmony, as if they were simply discussing literature rather than the fate of empires.

Fan Yun reflects on the day he met Cui Buqu, a sickly but sharp young man who casually corrected Fan’s divination layout during a rainstorm.

Intrigued by Cui’s intuition and refusal to believe in fate, Fan invited him to study under him, and while Cui refused formally, they became master and disciple in practice.

Back in the present, Fan Yun fondly recalls Cui as one of the most talented people he ever met and laments that Cui’s poor health kept him from excelling in martial arts.

Yuan Sansi praises Cui Buqu’s meteoric rise, noting his influence with Empress Dugu and sharp political mind.

Cui realizes Fan Yun’s current tactic—using nostalgia and former mentorship—is just psychological warfare to wear down his resistance before offering rewards.

When Cui asks if his companions will also be recruited, Yuan Sansi slyly replies, “There’s no rush,” implying a deeper plan is underway.

Fan Yun proposes Cui join the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai, suggesting that the emperor, Yang Jian, doesn’t truly value Cui’s talents despite his current power.

Cui, weary and ill, considers that he holds great authority but would lose everything if he died young—revealing a hidden vulnerability.

Fan Yun offers to reveal the Thirteen Floors’ true aims only if Cui joins. He hints that their leader is a man of immense ability destined to rule.

He then confirms internal hierarchy: Fan Yun is San-xiansheng (third-ranked), Yuan Sansi is Si-xiansheng (fourth), and the recently killed Go Un was fifth.

Fan offers Cui a position above even them, should he join—declaring that Cui’s brilliance is valued highly by their mysterious leader.

Cui points out all the damage he’s done to their organization—killing Duan Qihu, exposing Yuxiu, and defeating Go Un—but Fan assures him none of it matters.

Fan claims the Thirteen Floors reward strength, and Cui’s effectiveness proves his worth.

When Cui finally asks what they want from him, Fan reveals the true plan: they want Cui to betray and help assassinate Empress Dugu.

Because of her trust in Cui, they believe he can get close enough to become the Thirteen Floors’ “bridge” to eliminating her.

In exchange, Cui would become deputy leader of the Thirteen Floors, second only to their mysterious pavilion leader, and a king in all but name when the new regime rises.

Cui dismisses this as an empty promise, prompting Fan Yun to unveil their final bargaining chip: the Jade of Heaven Lake, a mythical artifact said to prolong life.

Yuan Sansi reveals the real jade hidden in the chamber, and Cui recognizes it instantly as the authentic one previously handed over to the imperial court.

The jade is real, meaning it was stolen from imperial hands—something Cui should have known about if it were official. There’s only one conclusion: a traitor.

Realizing the implications, Cui whispers a single name in shock and disbelief: “Feng Xiao.”

Fan Yun continues persuading Cui Buqu to join the Thirteen Floors of Yunhai, appealing to his ambition and reminding him how short his lifespan might be due to illness.

He offers Cui power, resources, and an extended life—telling him that with Cui’s intellect, the role of Zuoyue Bureau Chief is beneath him.

Cui Buqu remains silent, and Fan Yun takes this as a sign that he’s considering the offer seriously.

After a pause, Cui Buqu requests to see Feng Xiao for confirmation about the stolen Jade of Heaven Lake.

Fan Yun agrees, hinting that Feng Xiao has already joined them and urging Cui to accept the reality.

Yuan Sansi goes to summon Feng, while Fan explains the hierarchical structure of the Thirteen Floors, where two deputy leaders can command the full resources of the organization.

Cui realizes the full scope of the conspiracy, including how they manipulated events beginning with Duan Qihu’s forged letter, luring Cui into their trap using Yuan, Feng, and the Cui family drama as distractions.

Fan Yun confirms Cui’s analysis was correct—the trap was set long ago, and even Cui’s brilliant mind couldn’t dodge every move.

Feng Xiao finally enters the chamber, cold and unreadable, offering no hint of affection as he confirms he is indeed a member of the Thirteen Floors.

Cui Buqu questions him about every major event—Qingli Garden, the carriage rescue, the fake poison injury—and Feng admits all were orchestrated to win Cui’s trust and draw him in.

Feng says Cui was his test to prove his loyalty to the Thirteen Floors, and his betrayal was the price of gaining the final volume of the Refining Jade technique to save his dying shimei.

He adds that Cui’s importance was strategic—it wasn’t personal, and that trusting him was a mistake Cui made on his own.

Cui becomes physically ill from the betrayal, erupting in a violent coughing fit while barely keeping his composure.

Feng crouches and grabs Cui’s chin, forcing him to meet his eyes and mocks him, repeating Fan Yun’s observation that Cui hides deep emotions under an icy surface.

He says now he believes it—Cui truly cared, and that’s what made the betrayal hurt the most.

Fan Yun watches with satisfaction as Feng Xiao and Cui Buqu turn on each other, believing their rivalry will make them easier to control within the Thirteen Floors.

Feng Xiao mocks the idea of being "family" with Cui Buqu and scoffs at Cui being made equal in rank to him upon joining.

He complains that Fan Yun didn’t mention Cui would also be recruited and sees Cui’s promotion as a threat—demanding that either Cui goes or he does.

Fan Yun proposes a compromise: Cui Buqu will complete a task, then fake his death and go south, removing the conflict.

Cui Buqu laughs hysterically at the absurdity of it all, then falls into a coughing fit, mocking Fan Yun for deciding everything without his consent.

He then delivers a powerful monologue defending Emperor Yang Jian, praising his meritocratic reforms and vision for uniting the Central Plains.

Cui argues that while the Thirteen Floors rely on conspiracy, Yang Jian dares to challenge the nobility, creating true change—something Fan Yun’s chosen leader lacks the courage to do.

Fan Yun’s smile fades as Cui continues to methodically tear apart the Thirteen Floors’ ideology, calling them cowards hiding in shadows, unworthy of shaping the world.

Cui declares he would never join them, even with the Jade of Heaven Lake dangled as a cure for his illness, sarcastically offering to testify on Fan Yun’s behalf if he surrenders now.

Fan Yun threatens Cui with consequences, but Cui throws it back in his face, mocking the notion that they were ever like father and son.

Suddenly, Yuxiu enters the chamber, revealing his hatred toward Feng Xiao for taking his eye in a past battle and expressing surprise that Cui refused while Feng supposedly joined.

Yuxiu attempts to kill Cui Buqu with a powerful kick, but neither Yuan Sansi nor Fan Yun intervenes—they are willing to let Cui be maimed or die.

Just before the blow lands, Feng Xiao intercepts Yuxiu, deflecting the attack and fighting him off in a quick exchange.

Yuxiu accuses Feng of betrayal, but Feng coolly brushes it off, sarcastically saying he wants the pleasure of hurting Cui himself and refuses to let Yuxiu take that from him.

To prove his “loyalty,” Feng requests Fan Yun’s dagger, who reluctantly hands it over, watching closely.

With the dagger in hand, Feng approaches Cui Buqu, who remains still and calm—yet the distance between them now feels impossibly vast, symbolizing how far their relationship has fallen.

Cui Buqu watches Feng Xiao approach with a dagger and realizes Feng is going all in to convince the Thirteen Floors of his loyalty—even if it means stabbing him.

Feng drops to one knee and asks Cui how he thinks he’ll die. Cui, surprisingly calm, recalls all the times he nearly died but survived, especially when Feng saved him in the Khaganate.

Feng suddenly stabs Cui in the chest with the dagger, burying it to the hilt. The pain is immediate and overwhelming; Cui starts coughing blood.

Despite the agony, Cui whispers silently, “You saved my life last time. I’ve repaid you now,” showing he believes this might be necessary for Feng’s cover.

Everyone present, including Fan Yun and Yuxiu, is shocked. Yuxiu only meant to torture Cui, not kill him. Even Fan Yun didn’t expect Feng to go that far.

Fan Yun shoves Feng away and rushes to stop the bleeding. He scolds Feng for ruining their plans, revealing the leader of the Thirteen Floors wanted to meet Cui personally.

Feng brushes off the outrage, coldly declaring Cui is a liability who could betray him. He walks away, showing no remorse.

Yuan Sansi warns that Feng might be too dangerous to trust, while Yuxiu says Feng at least saved him the trouble of killing Cui himself.

Fan Yun, drained but determined, uses all his martial strength to save Cui’s life. After four exhausting hours, he stabilizes him—barely.

One of the seductive maids tends to Cui, carefully cleaning and dressing his wounds, noting he’s completely unconscious and unresponsive.

Meanwhile, Feng Xiao returns to his lavish quarters, completely unmoved by the luxurious setting or the half-naked beauty, Feng Xiaolian, waiting in his bed.

Feng Xiaolian flirts aggressively, but Feng resists, making sarcastic comments and even faking romantic interest when he senses someone (likely Yuan Sansi) eavesdropping.

After a sensual ruse, Feng Xiaolian suddenly tries to bolt and alert the others, but Feng Xiao kills her with a zither string—revealed to be from Yuyin, the treasured zither gifted by Cui Yong.

Feng mutters that using Yuyin as a murder weapon would’ve killed Cui Yong with rage if he were still alive to see it.

Elsewhere, Cui Buqu drifts in darkness, hovering between life and death. He experiences fragmented memories and intense pain but senses someone gently caring for him.

He thinks it’s a dream—such kindness doesn’t belong in his life—but still clings to the will to survive.

As the chapter ends, Cui remains unconscious, his fate uncertain, while Feng Xiao continues playing his dangerous game deep within enemy territory.

(Chapter Summary)

(Chapter Summary)