In Yanhui, General's Slope was created from the discarded armor of the victorious Black Iron Battalion and is considered cursed and barren.

Cao Niangzi and Ge Pangxiao go to the slope, waiting for Chang Geng. Cao Niangzi, raised as a girl due to a fortune-teller’s prediction, is tall and thin. Ge Pangxiao, the butcher’s son, is short and round, known as "Little Porker."

They talk about "goose-feed snatching," where children fight for food brought by returning soldiers.

Chang Geng, known for his martial arts skills and maturity, descends from the hill. He dismisses Ge Pangxiao's attempts to involve him in childish activities.

The Shen brothers saved Chang Geng from wolves two years ago and settled in Yanhui afterward.

Shen Yi, known as Shen-xiansheng, is a failed scholar who now works as a local teacher, doctor, and handyman.

Shen Shiliu, blind, deaf, and lazy but very handsome, accepted Chang Geng as his godchild, creating an obligation for Chang Geng to care for him in the future.

Concerned for Shiliu’s health after hearing from Ge Pangxiao about a change in his medication, Chang Geng visits the Shen brothers.

Shen Yi is boiling herbs in the courtyard, while Shiliu plays a poorly performed xun flute inside.

Shen Yi explains that Shiliu isn’t ill; the medicine is for a seasonal change. He directs Chang Geng to check inside, where Shiliu has a mysterious item for him.

Chang Geng enters his godfather Shen Shiliu's dimly lit room to bring him medicine.

Shen Shiliu is alluring in the low light, with his long hair unbound and two small cinnabar moles on his face.

Chang Geng, despite being used to Shiliu's beauty, is still taken aback and reminds Shiliu to drink his medicine.

Shiliu jokingly chides Chang Geng for not calling him "Dad" and mentions he got something interesting for Chang Geng at Changyang Pass.

Chang Geng is exasperated, expecting another childish toy, but Shiliu gives him an iron cuff, a piece of military equipment that can shoot small knives.

The cuff is smaller than usual, fitting perfectly on Chang Geng's wrist. Shiliu claims it's a defective product he got at a discount.

Chang Geng is delighted and thanks Shiliu, calling him "Yifu" (godfather).

After Chang Geng leaves, Shen Yi confronts Shiliu, revealing that the iron cuff is a rare, high-quality piece made by a master.

Shen Yi questions Shiliu's intentions, asking if he truly plans to raise Chang Geng as his son.

Shiliu admits he likes Chang Geng and suggests it might be easier for everyone if he adopts him, hinting at a larger plan.

That night, during the Ghost Festival, lanterns float downriver, and Chang Geng experiences a wet dream, which perplexes him.

He dreams of a snowstorm beyond the pass, where he was saved by a stranger who fed him wine, later revealed to be Shiliu.

Chang Geng is troubled by his attraction to Shiliu and is confused by the vividness of his memories.

He notices the iron cuff on his wrist is still cold despite being against his skin all night.

A deep rumble signals the return of the giant kite, a massive airship from the northern patrol.

The giant kite, a symbol of power, carries violet gold tribute from the northern barbarian tribes back to the imperial court.

The Xu family is considered well-off in Yanhui, with a small estate and a kitchen maid handling domestic tasks.

The kitchen maid informs Chang Geng that his mother, Xiu-niang, asked if he would join her for breakfast.

Chang Geng declines, maintaining his usual distance from his mother, Xiu-niang, and stating she prefers peace and quiet.

Their relationship is cold despite being mother and son. They only interact formally when Company Commander Xu is home.

Chang Geng refuses food brought by the maid after noticing a strand of Xiu-niang's hair on it, showing his aversion to anything she has touched.

Chang Geng heads next door to the Shen brothers’ house, where Shen-xiansheng is working on repairing armor.

Shen Shiliu, lazy and pretending to be deaf, asks Chang Geng to fetch him wine. Shen-xiansheng scolds Shiliu for his lack of contribution.

Shiliu jokes around but eventually goes to the kitchen to help, though he barely makes an effort in washing the rice.

Chang Geng shows his calligraphy to Shen-xiansheng, who comments on his practice of the Marquis of Anding Gu Yun's "Roadside Pavilion Inscription."

Shen-xiansheng explains Gu Yun's achievements, including leading troops at a young age and his background as the son of the former Marquis and a princess.

The Marquis of Anding was responsible for reviving the Black Iron Battalion and leading successful campaigns in the Western Regions.

Shen-xiansheng hints at political tensions surrounding the Black Iron Battalion and the imperial court but is cautioned by Shiliu to stop.

Chang Geng cleverly changes the topic, asking about who led the Black Iron Battalion between major campaigns.

Shen-xiansheng explains that the battalion was largely inactive and in decline until Gu Yun revitalized it in response to a crisis.

Shiliu cautions Chang Geng against romanticizing the idea of becoming a hero, suggesting heroes rarely have happy endings.

Chang Geng feels frustrated by Shiliu's seemingly pessimistic view, seeing it as a lack of ambition, and dismisses his words.

During breakfast, Shen-xiansheng gives Chang Geng a lesson from "Great Learning" and goes off-topic, discussing armor maintenance and other random subjects.

Shen-xiansheng mentions needing to repair armor and gather medicinal herbs in the afternoon.

Chang Geng plans to practice his swordsmanship on General's Slope, but Shen Shiliu convinces him to go see the giant kite's return instead.

Shiliu drags Chang Geng to see the giant kite, using his selective hearing to ignore Chang Geng's protests.

As they leave, Xiu-niang, Chang Geng's mother, steps out and asks him to bring back a box of rouge, reminding him that his father is returning today.

Shiliu agrees on Chang Geng's behalf, displaying his selective hearing again by responding to Xiu-niang despite claiming to be deaf.

At the Gosling Market near the town gates, a crowd gathers to see the giant kite's return, including children waiting to collect "goose feed."

Shen Shiliu wanders the market enthusiastically while Chang Geng follows, feeling bored and keeping an eye on him.

The market offers homemade goods from peasant families, reflecting the poor state of the economy despite the war's end.

Shiliu buys salted beans and gives one to Chang Geng, accidentally making him bite his tongue.

Shiliu philosophizes about youth being fleeting, emphasizing the need to enjoy it while it lasts.

The giant kite, a massive airship, appears on the horizon, and the crowd cheers as it approaches.

Shen Shiliu mutters that the ship seems lighter this year, hinting at some trouble.

Soldiers prepare for the kite's landing by opening the underground river beneath the town gates, and the giant kite makes a dramatic landing.

The kite tosses goose feed, which the children scramble to collect, before settling on the river.

The kite emits a mournful bugle call, filling the town with an eerie, almost ghostly atmosphere.

As the kite approaches, Chang Geng, despite seeing it every year, is still in awe of its size and power.

Chang Geng notices the heat from the kite’s fire pinions and reaches out to grab Shiliu, suggesting they move back due to the crowd.

Chang Geng realizes Shiliu has disappeared without a trace, leaving him alone in the crowd.

Chang Geng searches frantically for Shen Shiliu in the crowd as the giant kite approaches.

Amid the chaos, someone screams that a person has fallen into the river.

Chang Geng hears someone mention Shiliu’s name, prompting him to rush to the riverbank.

He sees someone struggling in the water and, fearing it might be Shiliu, dives in with a rope to rescue them.

The giant kite creates waves, making the rescue difficult. Chang Geng grabs the person in the water and signals not to be pulled up yet.

He manages to bring the person to the surface, only to discover it’s not Shiliu but Cao Niangzi, a twelve-year-old.

The crowd pulls Chang Geng and Cao Niangzi out just as the giant kite’s fire pinions nearly graze Chang Geng’s leg.

Shiliu appears, scolding Chang Geng for acting recklessly and not leaving the rescue to the soldiers.

Chang Geng is furious, having risked his life thinking Shiliu was in danger while Shiliu had been safe the entire time.

Shiliu drapes his outer robe around Chang Geng and gives him the rouge he bought for Xiu-niang, but Chang Geng storms off, angry and feeling foolish.

Shiliu, puzzled by Chang Geng’s reaction, watches the giant kite with an uncharacteristic focus before disappearing into the crowd.

Chang Geng returns home, wet and irritated, and is told by the kitchen maid that Xiu-niang wishes to speak with him.

He changes clothes and, with a heavy heart, takes the rouge to Xiu-niang’s quarters.

Xiu-niang is dressed like a young maiden and asks Chang Geng to stop calling her "mother," stating that their relationship ends today.

Chang Geng is taken aback as Xiu-niang ominously declares their mother-son destiny has come to an end.

Xiu-niang reveals to Chang Geng that she is not his birth mother, confirming his long-held suspicions.

Chang Geng feels a hollow sense of loss, as he always hoped for a mother’s love despite their strained relationship.

Xiu-niang explains that "Chang Geng" is a name she gave him, derived from an inauspicious star associated with war and bloodshed.

Chang Geng sarcastically retorts that he was told he was the product of her rape by mountain bandits, a mix of noble and vile blood.

Xiu-niang becomes emotional, hinting at a deeper truth about Chang Geng's parentage.

Chang Geng recalls his early memories of Xiu-niang, where she often attempted to kill him but always stopped short, leaving him confused about her intentions.

She apologizes for mistreating him and indicates her intention to confess everything, implying her hatred towards him wasn’t due to the bandits.

Xiu-niang reveals she is a member of the barbarian tribes and that Chang Geng has been cursed with the "Curse of Wu’ergu," a potent, undetectable poison meant to drive him into madness.

Chang Geng realizes Xiu-niang has been in contact with the barbarian tribes since they arrived in Yanhui.

Xiu-niang gives Chang Geng a jade pendant, hinting at his true identity and claims her real name is Huge’er, meaning "violet gold at the heart of the earth."

She collapses, coughing up blood, revealing she is mortally ill. In her final moments, she curses Chang Geng to a life of hatred and violence, foretelling a tragic destiny.

Xiu-niang dies while cursing Chang Geng, her face twisted in a malicious expression.

Chang Geng is left with many unanswered questions about his identity and the true nature of his godfather, Shen Shiliu.

The old kitchen maid stumbles upon Xiu-niang's corpse and screams, drawing attention.

Simultaneously, the town’s siren flare is set off, indicating an emergency.

Shen Yi, who was repairing armor, reacts to the siren flare. Shen Shiliu reveals that there are barbarian spies on the giant kite and the returning men are imposters.

Shiliu retrieves a hidden suit of armor and a black iron token, revealing his true identity and the seriousness of the situation.

Shiliu orders Shen Yi to take Chang Geng, whom he refers to as "His Highness the Fourth Prince," out of town.

Shen Shiliu leaves with a deadly aura, showing a side of himself Chang Geng has never seen before.

The veteran officer overseeing Yanhui's defense, Old Wang, is vigilant on the day of the giant kite’s return.

A siren flare is set off unexpectedly, alarming Old Wang and the soldiers.

The giant kite gets stuck at the half-open iron palisade, adding to the confusion.

Suddenly, an explosion occurs on the giant kite's deck, and a parhelion arrow is fired, piercing the siren flare.

Chaos ensues as it becomes clear that the ship is under the control of barbarians who have infiltrated Yanhui Town.

Scar-faced barbarian warriors emerge from the giant kite in heavy armor, and panic spreads among the townspeople.

Old Wang attempts to alert the town using a firestarter on a gold tank, but a parhelion arrow kills him and destroys the watchtower.

The giant kite launches a deadly attack on the town, releasing a shower of parhelion arrows, causing widespread destruction.

Barbarian soldiers in heavy armor descend from the giant kite and begin their assault on the town, creating chaos and bloodshed.

The barbarian leader, Scarface, viciously kills a cavalryman and heads towards Company Commander Xu’s residence.

Heavy-armored warriors invade the Xu residence, killing the kitchen maid in the process.

The barbarians search for Xiu-niang, only to find her dead body, confirming Chang Geng's suspicion that she was involved in the barbarians' infiltration.

Chang Geng faces the barbarian leader, revealing he remembers Scarface from the wolf attack two years prior.

Scarface mourns Xiu-niang's death, showing a moment of vulnerability before turning on Chang Geng in rage.

In a fit of grief and anger, Scarface violently slams Chang Geng against the wall, but Chang Geng defiantly stares back at him, showing no fear.

Chang Geng confronts the scar-faced barbarian warrior with defiance, showing his natural fighting spirit.

Just as Scarface is about to kill Chang Geng, a black-armored warrior intervenes, severing Scarface’s arm and saving Chang Geng.

The warrior, using Black Carapace armor and a windslasher weapon, quickly dispatches several of the barbarian warriors with expert skill.

The black-armored warrior, who is revealed to be Shen Yi, carries Chang Geng away from the scene, acknowledging the mutiny on the giant kite and Xiu-niang's role as a spy.

Shen Yi reveals that he is an officer of the Black Iron Battalion and a direct subordinate of the Marquis of Anding, Gu Yun.

Shen Yi discloses to Chang Geng that he is actually the Fourth Prince, the son of the emperor's noble consort who escaped an assassination attempt years ago.

The noble consort’s younger sister fled with Chang Geng, and the emperor believed his son was killed until clues surfaced three years ago.

Chang Geng is skeptical of Shen Yi’s story, questioning how Shen Yi could live undercover for two years without stopping Xiu-niang’s actions.

Chang Geng rejects the revelation, believing himself to be the son of a barbarian woman and an unknown bandit, unworthy of royal status or being saved.

Shen Yi identifies a specific physical marker on Chang Geng, a bent pinky toe, as proof of his imperial lineage.

Chang Geng remembers that Xiu-niang had broken his toe in childhood, further fueling his distrust and disbelief in the story.

Chang Geng hears the cries of Ge Pangxiao amidst the chaos and spots the decapitated head of Butcher Ge and his wife’s crushed body.

He calls out to Shen Yi to help but is told they can’t afford to tarry as Shen Yi's priority is to protect and escort Chang Geng out of town.

Chang Geng realizes Shen Yi is indifferent to the deaths of ordinary people in Yanhui Town, as he prioritizes the mission.

Chang Geng decides to leave Shen Yi’s protection, stating he’s not the prince Shen Yi claims him to be, and goes to help Ge Pangxiao.

Chang Geng uses a rotary sword in an attempt to fight a barbarian but realizes the sword is in disrepair.

He uses the sword to chop down a tree, which temporarily incapacitates the barbarian, telling Ge Pangxiao to run.

The barbarian frees himself and faces off against Chang Geng, who then tries to fight using an armored greave he removes from the fallen guard’s body.

Chang Geng manages to maneuver and disable the barbarian's heavy armor with the iron cuff Shen Shiliu gave him, surprising even himself with its effectiveness.

He smashes the barbarian’s gold tank, causing an explosion that kills the barbarian.

Ge Pangxiao offers to take Chang Geng to his father’s cellar to hide, declaring his loyalty to Chang Geng after being saved.

As they try to escape, they encounter another barbarian warrior in heavy armor, leaving them in a dire situation.

Chang Geng and Ge Pangxiao are cornered in an alley by a man in bright heavy armor and several soldiers.

The man reveals his face, showing a complicated expression of pride and longing, quickly overtaken by hatred.

Shen Yi arrives in his Black Carapace armor and steps between the boys and the man, introducing the man as Jialai Yinghuo, Crown Prince of the Eighteen Tianlang Tribes.

Jialai accuses Great Liang of stealing their goddess and violating their lands, justifying their attack on Yanhui Town.

Jialai believes Chang Geng is the son of the goddess and plans to sacrifice him to appease the Eternal Sky and goddess.

Ge Pangxiao, confused, realizes Chang Geng might be a prince, but Chang Geng dismisses it, feeling they’re about to die.

Shen Yi tries to fight off the barbarians, telling Chang Geng and Ge Pangxiao to run.

Shen Yi struggles against Jialai, who is stronger and leads the attack.

The barbarian soldiers target Chang Geng and Ge Pangxiao, attempting to capture them.

Ge Pangxiao manages to escape momentarily, using quick thinking to distract and humiliate a barbarian by urinating on him.

Chang Geng uses the dagger given to him by Shen Yi to disable the barbarian’s armor, buying them some time.

As the situation worsens, a large iron arrow shoots from the sky, killing a barbarian soldier, and revealing the arrival of Black Hawks.

Gu Yun, disguised as Shen Shiliu, arrives on horseback, revealing his true identity and saving Chang Geng and Ge Pangxiao.

Gu Yun, known as Marshal Gu, offers his hand to Chang Geng, addressing him as "Your Highness" and apologizing for arriving late.

Gu Yun, also known as Shen Shiliu, reveals his true identity as the Marquis of Anding and the leader of the Black Iron Battalion.

Gu Yun feels anxious about how Chang Geng will react to the revelation of his true identity.

Chang Geng, overwhelmed by recent events, shows a mix of anger and disappointment toward Gu Yun.

Gu Yun dislocates Chang Geng’s injured ankle to reset it, showing his care despite Chang Geng’s cold reaction.

Gu Yun shifts his focus to the surrounding barbarian soldiers, using his reputation to intimidate them.

The barbarian prince, Jialai Yinghuo, recognizes Gu Yun and is filled with hatred, realizing that their invasion was a trap.

The Black Hawks arrive and take control of the situation, capturing the giant kite.

Gu Yun taunts Jialai about the failed Gold Corrosion Stratagem, revealing that he knew about the barbarians' plan all along.

Gu Yun orders the capture of Jialai, signifying the victory over the barbarians.

Chang Geng confronts Gu Yun, expressing his anger and disappointment over the deception.

A hidden barbarian soldier attacks Gu Yun, but Chang Geng instinctively tries to protect him.

Gu Yun swiftly eliminates the threat, demonstrating his combat prowess and precision.

The chapter ends with Chang Geng feeling a deep sense of alienation and betrayal, questioning the reality of his relationship with Gu Yun.

The barbarians launched an all-out attack on Yanhui Town using their heavy armor infantry, which was costly and significant for the Eighteen Barbarian Tribes.

The Black Iron Battalion defeated the barbarians quickly, with the Black Hawks seizing the giant kite and the Black Carapaces capturing the barbarian prince.

Gu Yun arrested over sixty military officers from Yanhui Town and other northern settlements, causing fear and tension along the northern border.

Chang Geng and Ge Pangxiao stayed at Magistrate Guo's residence, where they were treated with great respect, especially since Chang Geng was thought to be of imperial blood.

Ge Pangxiao learned about Chang Geng's complicated family background and vowed to stand by him, no matter who his father was.

Shen Yi visited Chang Geng and Ge Pangxiao, bringing them food and explaining the backstory of their mission.

Shen Yi revealed that Gu Yun had received a secret decree from the Emperor to find the missing fourth prince and discovered Chang Geng during the investigation of barbarian activities.

Gu Yun and Shen Yi realized Chang Geng was the prince after seeing Xiu-niang, and they set a trap to capture the barbarians.

Shen Yi explained the history of Chang Geng's mother, the noble consort from the Tianlang Tribe, who was a treasure to her people but was taken by the Emperor.

Chang Geng remained skeptical of the story, especially regarding Xiu-niang's actions and his own identity.

Shen Yi attempted to clarify that Xiu-niang might have cared for Chang Geng and that his memory of certain events might be incorrect.

Chang Geng, feeling mistrustful and weary, distanced himself from Shen Yi and Gu Yun.

Gu Yun, who was secretly concerned about Chang Geng’s reaction, sat alone in a garden, chewing mint leaves as he waited for Shen Yi’s report.

Shen Yi found Gu Yun and noted his deteriorating condition, implying that Gu Yun had been using medication to manage his health issues.

Gu Yun was staying right next to Chang Geng, but unlike Chang Geng, his lodgings were desolate as he preferred to be left alone, not wanting unfamiliar people around due to his disabilities.

Gu Yun requested his medicine upon returning to his rooms, which Shen Yi prepared despite its negative side effects, such as causing intense headaches after a temporary period of clarity in vision and hearing.

While Shen Yi drafted a memorial to the emperor, Gu Yun struggled with his deteriorating senses, using a glass monocle to aid his vision.

Gu Yun instructed Shen Yi to embellish the story in the memorial, portraying Chang Geng as a devoted and loyal prince who aided in crushing the barbarian plot, in hopes of gaining the emperor’s favor and protecting Chang Geng from political scheming in the capital.

Shen Yi reluctantly complied with Gu Yun's request, understanding the delicate political situation and the potential threats Chang Geng would face upon returning to the capital.

Gu Yun took his medicine, enduring the painful side effects in silence while Shen Yi worked on the memorial.

The next morning, Gu Yun was back to his usual lively self, excited about an item he had ordered, which he planned to use to cheer up Chang Geng and ask for forgiveness.

Gu Yun approached Chang Geng's courtyard, but upon entering, he was met with an attack from Chang Geng, who swung a sword at him in anger.

Gu Yun deftly dodged the attack and disarmed Chang Geng, offering himself up as a target for Chang Geng's frustrations while maintaining his lighthearted demeanor.

Early in the morning, Chang Geng had an altercation with Gu Yun, showing his anger by attacking him with a sword, but Gu Yun easily disarmed him and tried to offer an apology.

Gu Yun presented Chang Geng with a gift: an exquisite suit of heavy armor, suggesting he name it "Chang Geng." Chang Geng reacted with cold indifference and walked away, leaving Gu Yun feeling awkward and unsuccessful in his attempt to reconcile.

Soldiers carried the heavy armor into Chang Geng’s courtyard, but he showed no interest. Gu Yun, visibly disheartened, withdrew to ponder his next steps.

Shen Yi advised Gu Yun to give Chang Geng some space, as the young man was grappling with a mix of emotions, including feeling betrayed and deceived by Gu Yun’s true identity and the recent revelations about his mother.

Gu Yun planned to delay their return to the capital by fabricating a story about Chang Geng being ill from grief to buy time, but this plan was cut short by an urgent message from the emperor, who was critically ill and summoned them back immediately.

As they prepared to depart, Chang Geng was anxious about his uncertain future, unsure of his place in the world now that he was supposedly a prince.

Chang Geng allowed Ge Pangxiao and Cao Niangzi to join them on the journey to the capital. Cao Niangzi wanted to repay Chang Geng for saving his life, offering to serve him.

The group embarked on the journey back to the capital, and Chang Geng had a sense of foreboding, feeling that his simple, happy days in Yanhui Town were over for good.

During the journey, Chang Geng experienced nightmares and felt conflicted about his feelings toward Gu Yun.

One night, while walking near the riverbank, Chang Geng saw Shen Yi rushing to Gu Yun's tent with a bowl of medicine, a familiar scent that made Chang Geng stop in his tracks, unable to turn away.

Chang Geng struggled to reconcile his image of Shen Shiliu with that of Gu Yun, feeling a sense of betrayal and emotional turmoil due to the revelation.

Chang Geng visited Gu Yun's tent at night, worried about his condition after overhearing Shen Yi mention medicine. The guards initially hesitated to let him in but eventually allowed it.

Inside, Chang Geng found Gu Yun in pain, suffering from a headache. Gu Yun, disoriented, almost attacked him with a sword before realizing who he was.

Gu Yun asked Chang Geng to fetch him some "medicinal wine" to alleviate his pain, which Chang Geng reluctantly did.

Chang Geng helped Gu Yun by massaging his temples, easing his pain. This act of care seemed to break the ice between them.

Gu Yun reassured Chang Geng that he would protect him even in the capital and apologized for his actions, offering some comfort to the boy.

Chang Geng spent the night in Gu Yun’s tent, experiencing a rare peaceful sleep, albeit with some awkward moments when he woke up in Gu Yun’s arms.

The following morning, Gu Yun returned to his teasing, indicating their relationship had somewhat returned to normal, though it embarrassed Chang Geng.

Shen Yi witnessed the aftermath and asked Gu Yun about the situation. Gu Yun casually mentioned considering leaving the Black Iron Battalion to Chang Geng in the future, which shocked Shen Yi.

Shen Yi warned Gu Yun that the Black Iron Battalion was a dangerous responsibility, not a blessing, pointing out how the Battalion’s reputation had shifted from being a national asset to a feared weapon under Gu Yun's command.

The late emperor, a legendary figure who greatly expanded Great Liang's power, established the Black Iron Battalion and the Lingshu Institute. Despite his achievements, he experienced immense personal loss, with his wives and children dying young, leaving only his eldest daughter.

The eldest princess, Gu Yun's mother, married the former Marquis of Anding and played a crucial role in securing the Yuanhe Emperor's succession.

The Yuanhe Emperor raised Gu Yun, referring to him as "Zixi" and considering him like a brother. He took measures to limit Gu Yun's power over the years, fearing the influence of the Black Iron Battalion.

The crisis on the Western frontier necessitated the revival of the Black Iron Battalion under Gu Yun's command, allowing it to regain power despite the emperor's earlier efforts to weaken it.

Gu Yun has complex feelings towards the Yuanhe Emperor, who both cared for him and worked to undermine his authority.

Gu Yun values the role of the Black Iron Battalion in maintaining order in Great Liang and is not concerned with the emperor's potential fears of rebellion.

Shen Yi hints at the potential future conflict between the Crown Prince, who is more pacifist, and the second prince, Prince Wei, who is more militant and ambitious. Gu Yun, however, shows no interest in getting involved in the political struggle.

The Tianlang crown prince, imprisoned and filled with hatred, curses Gu Yun, wishing him a gruesome death and hoping that he suffers as the Celestial Wolf Tribe did.

Chang Geng, disturbed by the barbarian prince's curses, is reassured by Gu Yun, who dismisses the prince's threats and encourages Chang Geng not to be afraid.

Inspired by Gu Yun's carefree demeanor, Chang Geng starts to question his fear and considers resisting the wu’ergu's attempt to drive him mad.

During the journey back to the capital, Chang Geng slowly grows accustomed to his new reality, feeling like a seedling trying to straighten up and grow.

Upon arrival at the capital, Chang Geng and Gu Yun head to the imperial palace to meet the dying Yuanhe Emperor.

Chang Geng is introduced to the emperor, who immediately recognizes him and gives him the name "Min," conferring upon him the title of "Prince Yanbei."

The Yuanhe Emperor expresses his desire for Chang Geng to grow up without a title until he reaches adulthood to avoid jealousy and conflict with his older brothers.

The emperor entrusts Chang Geng's care to Gu Yun, stating that he trusts no one else to look after him. He wants Gu Yun to adopt Chang Geng until he is of age.

Chang Geng is sent away, and the emperor has a private conversation with Gu Yun, reminiscing about the late third prince, A-Yan, and expressing concern for Gu Yun's future.

The emperor warns Gu Yun about the dangers of his ambitions and suggests he seek guidance from the abbot of the National Temple, emphasizing the importance of knowing when to advance and when to retreat.

The Yuanhe Emperor acknowledges Gu Yun's destiny as one of a warrior, recognizing that his nature and role were destined to be entwined with war and power.

The emperor questions Gu Yun about any potential grudges, and Gu Yun replies that after the emperor passes, he will have no family left in the world.

The emperor gives Gu Yun a string of Buddhist prayer beads and tries to offer some final comfort, telling him that his older cousin is watching over him.

The emperor dies three days later, marking the end of an era, as the nation prepares to transition into a new phase of its history.

After the emperor's death, Chang Geng attends the grand funeral procession, feeling out of place among strangers.

Chang Geng is taken to the Marquis of Anding’s estate, which appears imposing from the outside but is relatively simple and sparsely decorated within.

The estate lacks the typical luxuries and servants associated with nobility, with only a few old servants and minimal use of violet gold technology.

Ge Pangxiao and Cao Niangzi, who accompany Chang Geng to the estate, are surprised by its modesty compared to the homes of local officials.

Gu Yun explains to the boys that he lives a simple life, even joking that he’s the most beautiful person in the house.

Gu Yun gives the boys free rein of the estate, encouraging them to study, practice martial arts, or ride horses as they wish, emphasizing that they are free to go out as long as they bring guards and avoid causing trouble.

Chang Geng begins to feel a sense of warmth and belonging in the estate, even though Gu Yun becomes increasingly busy with affairs of state.

Gu Yun is occupied with numerous responsibilities, including dealing with the new emperor’s ascension, managing the captured barbarian prince, and various diplomatic issues.

The estate enters a cold winter, and Gu Yun returns late one night with Shen Yi after meeting with the new emperor, discussing political matters.

They talk about the Tianlang Tribe's envoy asking for leniency for the captured barbarian prince, which Gu Yun opposes, seeing it as a dangerous threat.

Gu Yun contemplates the presence of dangers on all four borders of Great Liang and expresses his desire to strike against foreign threats more aggressively.

Shen Yi questions Gu Yun about how he plans to care for Chang Geng, reminding him of how the late emperor cared for Gu Yun in his youth.

Gu Yun struggles with the idea of guiding Chang Geng, unsure how to fulfill his role as a guardian or father figure.

Shen Yi advises Gu Yun to at least show some presence in Chang Geng’s life, suggesting small acts like showing up occasionally or giving him notes to copy.

Shen Yi leaves, reminding Gu Yun that everyone he meets, whether a child or an old man, has something to teach him.

Gu Yun, feeling influenced by Shen Yi’s words, decides to check on Chang Geng in the middle of the night.

He finds Chang Geng having a nightmare and wakes him gently, trying to comfort him.

Chang Geng, still frightened and half-awake, hugs Gu Yun around the waist, seeking comfort.

Gu Yun, surprised by this display of vulnerability, feels a new sense of responsibility toward Chang Geng, realizing that he wants to protect and care for him.

Gu Yun joins Chang Geng on the bed, trying to comfort him by asking about his nightmares, but Chang Geng deflects and doesn't tell Gu Yun about the wu’ergu.

Chang Geng asks Gu Yun if he ever has nightmares, and after some initial teasing, Gu Yun shares a story about a dream where he fought off beasts.

Gu Yun jokes about placing a chamber pot outside the door to ward off nightmares, causing Chang Geng to feel frustrated with him.

Despite the teasing, Gu Yun shows a rare moment of care by leaving his iron pauldrons in Chang Geng’s room, hoping they might ward off nightmares.

Chang Geng sleeps peacefully for the rest of the night without nightmares.

When he wakes up, Chang Geng realizes he has had another inappropriate dream about Gu Yun, leaving him mortified and ashamed.

While he is still reeling from his embarrassment, someone knocks on the door, catching him off guard.

Chang Geng wakes up to find an iron giant puppet at his door, startling him with its terrifying appearance.

Gu Yun appears and explains that the iron puppet is a sword-training tool he used as a child, intended to be Chang Geng's sparring partner.

The puppet activates and begins attacking Chang Geng, who struggles to defend himself, dropping his sword multiple times.

Gu Yun sits and watches Chang Geng's attempts with the puppet while drinking wine, offering no assistance at first.

After Chang Geng fails repeatedly, Gu Yun finally steps in to give him hands-on guidance, holding Chang Geng from behind and controlling his movements to demonstrate how to counter the puppet’s attacks.

Gu Yun helps Chang Geng successfully disable the puppet by guiding him to strike the correct points on its body.

Chang Geng feels the difference in skill between him and Gu Yun, realizing his young godfather's expertise in combat.

Gu Yun explains the importance of stepping forward to engage in battle rather than retreating, especially against stronger or armored opponents.

Chang Geng calls Gu Yun "Yifu" (godfather) and apologizes for his previous behavior, showing a sense of maturity and acceptance of his own flaws.

Gu Yun notices a change in Chang Geng, realizing that he has grown up in some way after this training session.

Gu Yun is busy with court duties, social obligations, and inspecting the Northern Camp, rarely returning home before sunset.

Chang Geng adjusts his schedule to receive Gu Yun's morning lessons, waking up at three to train with his sword.

The training sessions involve using the iron puppet, which Chang Geng brings to Gu Yun's courtyard every morning.

Gu Yun’s teaching style is disorganized, often straying into unrelated topics, but Chang Geng values the lessons and absorbs the knowledge.

Ge Pangxiao and Cao Niangzi try to join the lessons but are bewildered by Gu Yun's teaching method and eventually give up.

Chang Geng finds comfort and inspiration in these sessions, feeling like he is climbing toward Gu Yun's level, step by step.

Gu Yun, however, sees these sessions as playtime rather than serious training, preferring that Chang Geng grow into an elegant gentleman rather than a soldier.

The new emperor declares a pardon across the nation, including releasing the barbarian crown prince, Jialai Yinghuo.

Gu Yun disagrees with this decision but acknowledges the emperor’s authority and grants 30 war chariots and 400 suits of steel armor to the Black Iron Battalion.

Gu Yun discusses his concerns about the Westerners’ proposal to open a large trade route with Shen Yi, suspecting ulterior motives.

Shen Yi asks about the emperor's reaction, and Gu Yun reveals that the emperor granted him a fox-fur coat, implying he should return to the border.

Gu Yun contemplates his mortality and the burden of responsibility he carries, expressing concern about the future of Great Liang if something happens to him.

Shen Yi suggests Chang Geng as his successor, but Gu Yun feels Chang Geng isn't suited for military life.

Gu Yun decides to take Chang Geng and the others out to see the red-headed kite as a New Year's Eve celebration.

Chang Geng, preferring to stay home, tries to refuse, but Gu Yun forcefully drags him out, determined to take him to the festival.

Chang Geng is angry and embarrassed as Gu Yun carries him out of the house to go see the red-headed kite.

Cao Niangzi wishes to be carried by Gu Yun as well, but Ge Pangxiao offers to carry him instead, which Cao Niangzi refuses.

Gu Yun puts Chang Geng down when they leave the manor, but Chang Geng is still upset and tries to avoid Gu Yun's touch.

Chang Geng notices Gu Yun’s hands are cold, realizing that Gu Yun is lightly dressed for the winter, and insists on giving him his cloak.

On New Year’s Eve in the capital, the streets are crowded with people celebrating, which makes Chang Geng uncomfortable.

The highlight of the New Year’s Eve festivities is the launch of the red-headed kites, large kite-shaped boats that are powered by fire pinions.

Gu Yun leads Chang Geng and the others to Kite’s Landing, where the red-headed kites are launched.

Shen Yi had managed to reserve a spot on one of the red-headed kites, arranged with the help of Prince Wei.

Gu Yun orders the servants to leave, inviting the Black Iron Battalion soldiers to join them for the New Year’s Eve dinner.

As the red-headed kite rises into the sky, Chang Geng and the others marvel at the sights below.

Shen Yi offers Gu Yun a cup of grape wine, which Gu Yun rejects in favor of yellow wine, signaling that his medicine's effects are wearing off, impacting his vision.

Gu Yun raises three toasts: first to the soldiers present, acknowledging their sacrifices; second to the soldiers who died in the Western Regions, and third to the heavens and earth.

Chang Geng watches Gu Yun, realizing he's never seen this somber side of his godfather, and feels an urge to become stronger.

Ge Pangxiao suddenly shouts, pointing out the foreign dancers performing with animals outside.

Gu Yun puts on a glass monocle, which Chang Geng finds odd. Gu Yun explains it's a foreign trinket and jokes about finding Chang Geng a foreign stepmother, which irritates him.

A soldier jokes about how it's hard to find wives nowadays because women only care about looks, causing everyone to laugh, including Gu Yun.

Shen Yi teases Gu Yun about not finding a wife yet, touching a sore spot. Gu Yun brushes it off, saying he's waiting for the right person.

It’s revealed that Gu Yun had a fiancée, Miss Guo, who was highly regarded, but she passed away before they could marry, leading to rumors that Gu Yun was cursed.

Gu Yun never remarried, partially due to the late emperor's interference and suspicions about his fate being adverse to marriage.

Chang Geng feels a mix of jealousy and sadness when Gu Yun discusses his type in women, wondering what it would mean if Gu Yun brought someone into their lives.

Down below, a performance is happening with Westerners showing off a large tiger in a cage. The tiger becomes agitated by the crowd and gold leaves thrown at it, eventually attacking its handler.

The tiger breaks loose, causing chaos in the crowd, leading to a stampede as people try to flee.

Gu Yun quickly takes action, grabbing a bow and arrow, and orders Chang Geng to stay inside while the Black Iron Battalion soldiers descend to control the situation.

Shen Yi is concerned about Gu Yun's vision, as Gu Yun's eyes are not in the best condition without his monocle, but Gu Yun ignores him and draws the bow.

Standing on the edge of the red-headed kite, Gu Yun takes aim at the tiger amidst the chaos and releases the arrow.

Gu Yun shoots an arrow that pierces through the tiger’s skull, killing it instantly, preventing any casualties in the chaotic crowd.

He then shoots a second arrow to nail a foreigner’s hat to a pillar, suspecting him of having sinister motives, and orders his arrest for interrogation.

Amidst the chaos, a figure sneaks away from the scene and boards a ship, revealing himself as a black-haired foreigner. He meets with a Western envoy on board.

The envoy discusses the failed attempt to create chaos and mentions the strong faith the people of the Central Plains have in the Gu family, which poses an obstacle to their plans.

The envoy decides to initiate the "Loulan Stratagem" to undermine the Gu family’s influence in the East.

After restoring order, Gu Yun instructs his men to bring Chang Geng and the others back safely and leaves with Shen Yi, making an excuse about having to attend to business.

Chang Geng becomes suspicious of Gu Yun’s well-being, recalling the strange behaviors from earlier and connecting it with Gu Yun’s questionable health.

Chang Geng waits for Gu Yun in his room and falls asleep, only to have a nightmare where he sees Gu Yun’s empty eyes bleeding.

Waking up to find Gu Yun entering the room looking weak, he helps him to bed. Gu Yun dismisses it as having too much to drink, but Chang Geng is unconvinced.

The next morning, Gu Yun takes Chang Geng to the palace to give New Year’s wishes to the emperor. On the way, Gu Yun warns Chang Geng not to take any negativity from the emperor personally, hinting at past conflicts involving the empress dowager and Chang Geng's mother.

They encounter monks from the Temple of National Protection in the palace, including the abbot Liao Chi and a young monk named Liao Ran.

Gu Yun dislikes the monks and has an immediate distaste for Liao Ran despite his serene appearance. The monk makes a deep impression on him, though Gu Yun tries to dismiss it.

Abbot Liao Chi and his shidi, Liao Ran, approach Gu Yun. Liao Ran, a mute monk, offers to bless Gu Yun for his safety. Gu Yun refuses, showing his disdain for the monks.

Liao Ran tries to communicate with Chang Geng, hinting at sensing Chang Geng’s internal struggles, but Chang Geng remains polite and reserved.

Chang Geng learns that Gu Yun is leaving for the border, and he feels deeply troubled by the thought of being left behind. He expresses a desire to join the army and go with Gu Yun, but Gu Yun dismisses it as childish talk.

The Longan Emperor receives Gu Yun and Chang Geng in the palace. The emperor is amiable, discussing Chang Geng’s progress and giving him New Year’s money.

Chang Geng, in a bid to stay with Gu Yun, states his ambition to become Gu Yun’s personal guard. The emperor seems pleased but subtly dismisses the idea, reminding that a soldier's life is hard.

Gu Yun jokes about how he wouldn’t let Chang Geng suffer on the battlefield, understanding the emperor's hint that Chang Geng shouldn’t join the military.

After leaving the emperor, Gu Yun is busier than ever, preparing to leave for the border and managing responsibilities for the upcoming trade agreement with the Western pope’s envoy.

Gu Yun is tasked with escorting Jialai Yinghuo, the barbarian crown prince, to prevent any secret executions. The emperor uses the promise of violet gold resources to ensure the prince’s safety.

Gu Yun lies to Chang Geng about his departure date, telling him he’s going to the Fragrant Hills with the emperor to avoid a difficult farewell.

Chang Geng, in his distress over Gu Yun’s impending departure, becomes recklessly diligent in his martial training, injuring himself in the process.

Upon returning to the estate late at night, Gu Yun and Shen Yi find the household awake, celebrating Gu Yun’s birthday. Chang Geng, who organized the surprise, has even made Cao Niangzi dress up as a little maiden for the occasion.

Shen Yi gives Gu Yun a look, subtly calling him out on his lie to Chang Geng about his departure.

Gu Yun is surprised by the birthday celebration organized by Chang Geng and the others. They had decorated the sword-training puppet and made him a bowl of noodles. Despite the awkwardness, Gu Yun is touched by the gesture.

Gu Yun leaves for the border the next day without telling Chang Geng. He worries that Chang Geng might not forgive him for leaving without a proper goodbye.

Chang Geng discovers Gu Yun's departure when he sees that Gu Yun's fox-fur coat is gone, indicating he has left for the border. He realizes that Gu Yun had planned to leave without telling him.

Chang Geng struggles with the feelings of abandonment and betrayal. His emotions are magnified by the wu’ergu in his body, causing him severe distress and inner turmoil.

In a fit of rage and sorrow, Chang Geng experiences a full-blown attack from the wu’ergu, which amplifies his negative emotions, making him hate and want to harm Gu Yun.

Chang Geng fights through the attack by inflicting pain on himself to stay conscious. He realizes the true power of the wu’ergu and how it can manipulate his emotions.

After the wu’ergu attack subsides, Chang Geng collects himself and decides to seek out Liao Ran at the National Temple for guidance.

Liao Ran welcomes Chang Geng to the temple and offers him bitter kuding tea, explaining that it is good for calming anxiety and aiding sleep.

Chang Geng opens up about his feelings of being confined in his own small world, and Liao Ran advises him that if his heart is as large as the world, his worries would seem small in comparison.

Chang Geng asks Liao Ran for guidance on dealing with the suffering he has experienced, seeking comfort in the monk's wisdom.

A month after Gu Yun left, he sends a letter to Chang Geng, full of apologies and explanations for his sudden departure. However, the letter's overly sentimental tone indicates that Shen Yi wrote most of it.

Despite knowing the truth, Chang Geng finds himself affected by the letter, but he realizes Gu Yun won't be back for New Year’s as promised.

Gu Yun later sends another letter full of apologies, which frustrates Chang Geng further. He also sends a long list of gifts to make up for his absence.

Chang Geng, feeling useless in the Marquis Estate and wanting to experience the world, decides to leave. On his sixteenth birthday, he eats a bowl of longevity noodles alone and announces his plan to stay at the National Temple to pray for Gu Yun.

The old housekeeper is troubled by Chang Geng's decision but reluctantly allows it. He sends him, Ge Pangxiao, and Cao Niangzi to the temple.

Chang Geng spends days at the National Temple, which worries the housekeeper. He fears that Chang Geng will take the tonsure and become a monk.

Cao Niangzi and Ge Pangxiao are charmed by the handsome and knowledgeable monk, Liao Ran, and begin accompanying Chang Geng to the temple regularly.

Chang Geng eventually leaves the National Temple with Liao Ran, Ge Pangxiao, and Cao Niangzi for a journey to Jiangnan without informing anyone.

After the group elopes, a letter is sent to the emperor and Gu Yun. The emperor is unbothered, trusting in Liao Ran’s guidance, while Gu Yun is unreachable.

Half a month later, Chang Geng and his companions are in Jiangnan, observing iron puppets working in the fields. The conversation revolves around the potential impact of these machines on society.

Liao Ran explains that the Black Iron Battalion’s reputation helps maintain peace and prevents rebellion despite the societal changes.

Chang Geng reflects on Gu Yun’s role in maintaining peace and longs for him.

In the Western Regions, Gu Yun is in a standoff with desert raiders. He receives a letter about Chang Geng’s departure with Liao Ran, which angers him. He immediately prepares to deal with the situation, feeling an ominous premonition.

Gu Yun decides to go to Jiangnan to find Chang Geng despite being on the northwest front, planning to return quickly after capturing the Desert Scorpion raiders.

Gu Yun leaves immediately after capturing the raiders, joining the Black Hawks to travel swiftly to Jiangnan.

In Jiangnan, Gu Yun heads straight to the estate of Yao Zhen, the Regional Judiciary Commissioner of Yingtian, who had a history with Gu Yun.

Meanwhile, Liao Ran, traveling with Chang Geng and the others, continues to live a frugal lifestyle, collecting alms and visiting various places to understand people's lives.

In a small town market, Liao Ran’s group attracts attention due to a wanted poster issued by Gu Yun, labeling Liao Ran as an imposter and fraud, with a reward for information on his whereabouts.

The townspeople attempt to capture Liao Ran for the reward, but he outsmarts them with his agility. Chang Geng distracts the crowd by tossing silver ingots, allowing Liao Ran to escape.

Gu Yun arrives in the market with his men, cutting off Chang Geng and his group’s escape. Chang Geng is shocked to see Gu Yun in person.

Gu Yun, angered and conflicted, leads Chang Geng and the others to Commissioner Yao’s estate without speaking to them.

That evening, Gu Yun drinks alone, struggling to figure out how to talk to Chang Geng. Chang Geng enters, confessing that he missed Gu Yun.

Overwhelmed by emotions, Chang Geng steps forward and impulsively embraces Gu Yun.

Gu Yun's anger dissipates when Chang Geng embraces him, but he refrains from expressing how much he missed Chang Geng, instead jokingly scolding him for his actions.

Chang Geng explains he joined Liao Ran to see the world, feeling unaccomplished compared to Gu Yun at his age. He offers himself up for punishment, feeling guilty for causing trouble.

Gu Yun shares a story from his youth, explaining that his position wasn't solely due to his talents but his birth. He emphasizes that one's path is often determined by their circumstances, subtly explaining why he didn't take Chang Geng to the northwest.

Gu Yun tries to show Chang Geng he cares, offering him some wine and sharing his concern in a more subtle way.

A Black Hawk reports that Liao Ran escaped but left behind a cloth with a trace of "shattered heart," a substance used with violet gold.

Gu Yun suspects possible illegal activity involving violet gold in Jiangnan, either from a local official or overseas.

Gu Yun orders the Black Hawk to continue monitoring the ferry Liao Ran boarded to uncover more information about the violet gold smuggling operation.

Liao Ran secretly meets with Chang Geng, hinting that an imperial dragon (implying a power struggle or rebellion) is rising in the East Sea and that he is there to intervene.

Chang Geng realizes Liao Ran might have used him to draw Gu Yun to Jiangnan on purpose, indicating deeper plots at play.

Chang Geng follows Liao Ran to the outskirts of the city, suspicious of Liao Ran's intentions. He warns Liao Ran not to harm Gu Yun, revealing his willingness to protect Gu Yun at all costs.

Liao Ran admits that he has no ill intentions towards Gu Yun and suggests he led Gu Yun to Jiangnan on purpose to investigate a suspicious situation involving Dongying merchants.

They observe a pier where a fleet of Dongying merchant ships is loading crates of condensed fragrance, which has a strong smell that overpowers the canine inspectors used to detect violet gold smuggling.

Liao Ran hints that the condensed fragrance may be hiding something else, possibly involving violet gold, and that the Dongying merchants have ulterior motives.

Chang Geng questions Liao Ran's motives for involving Gu Yun, who explains that only Gu Yun has the authority and capability to investigate this matter.

A Black Hawk attempts to capture Liao Ran under Gu Yun's orders, but Chang Geng confronts the monk and is confused about why Gu Yun wants to speak to Liao Ran privately.

The next morning, Liao Ran visits Gu Yun without knocking, surprising everyone. He convinces Gu Yun to bring Chang Geng along on the mission, hinting at some shared understanding.

Gu Yun agrees to take Chang Geng and his companions on the mission, disguising himself as a deaf-blind fragrance expert to infiltrate the merchant ships.

The group sets off in disguise, with Gu Yun successfully assuming the role of a fragrance master. They reach the pier and are greeted by a middle-aged man who is suspicious of Gu Yun’s identity.

Chang Geng notes the presence of disguised fighters among the sailors, indicating the potential danger of their mission.

Gu Yun presents an envelope to a middle-aged man named Zhai Song, which contains a scent known as "Imperial Sovereign’s Fragrance" or "Dying Nation’s Fragrance." This scent serves as a secret code.

Zhai Song becomes less suspicious and allows Gu Yun and his group to board the Dongying merchant ship.

As they board, a Dongying ninja suddenly attacks Gu Yun from behind. Chang Geng blocks the attack, knocking the ninja away.

Chang Geng fights off the ninja and attempts to kill him, but is stopped by other Dongying warriors.

Zhai Song tries to defuse the situation, calling the attack a "joke," and offers an apology. He warns the group that the Dongying people on the ship are dangerous and skilled in assassination techniques.

Chang Geng is upset but relents, leading Gu Yun into their cabin. Gu Yun, pretending to be deaf and blind, remains calm throughout the ordeal.

Inside the cabin, Gu Yun writes to Chang Geng, warning him about the Dongying ninja and advising caution since the walls might have ears.

Gu Yun recalls his harsh upbringing, where he was trained to fight despite his impaired vision and hearing.

They continue their journey on the ship, with Gu Yun and Chang Geng keeping up their cover.

Ge Pangxiao sneaks into the cabin, bringing two compasses and a device from the Lingshu Institute that always points in the same direction.

They discover that the ship has deviated from its declared route, heading towards an unknown destination.

Ge Pangxiao, with the help of the device, identifies that they are almost at their new destination, suspecting they are near "the land of the dead."

Ge Pangxiao identifies the archipelago in the East Sea where the ship is heading, noting that it doesn't appear on official maps and is surrounded by dangerous waters.

Gu Yun realizes the islands could be strategically significant, lying close to Dongying and potentially providing a base for an attack on Great Liang.

Chang Geng questions the origins of the map given by Liao Ran, who provides a fabricated story about fishermen discovering the islands.

The ship shudders, indicating they are close to the archipelago. Chang Geng and Ge Pangxiao leave to investigate while Gu Yun ponders the implications of Dongying's actions.

Gu Yun suspects that the Dongying fleet is smuggling violet gold with the help of a high-ranking official in Great Liang.

Liao Ran visits Gu Yun, revealing his connection to the mysterious Linyuan Pavilion, an organization that reappears in times of turmoil.

Gu Yun and Liao Ran communicate about the impending chaos due to the rapid advances brought on by violet gold and iron puppets, suggesting that the world is on the brink of revolution.

Gu Yun smells the scent of burning violet gold on the air, realizing they are surrounded by dragon warships.

Chang Geng joins Gu Yun on deck and confirms they are flanked by a massive fleet of warships.

Gu Yun realizes they are vastly outnumbered, but still focuses on identifying the mastermind behind this operation.

Liao Ran tells Gu Yun that one of their allies is a musician for the leader of the fleet, and they need to make contact with her.

Cao Niangzi offers to disguise himself as a Dongying person to infiltrate the fleet and communicate with their contact, surprising everyone with his linguistic skills.

That night, Cao Niangzi, disguised as a Dongying youth, sneaks onto the island.

Zhai Song arrives at Gu Yun’s door, inviting him to a banquet on behalf of the fleet’s general, signaling another possible encounter with the leader of this operation.

Chang Geng receives a message from Zhai Song that the rebel leader wants to see Gu Yun, prompting a tense reaction.

Gu Yun, unfazed by the situation, decides to go meet the rebel leader, even though his current state of deafness and blindness makes it risky.

Chang Geng becomes suspicious of Gu Yun’s condition, noting inconsistencies in his behavior and actions over the past few days, leading him to suspect Gu Yun might not be pretending.

As they head to meet the leader, Chang Geng realizes that Gu Yun’s sight and hearing are impaired and he has been relying on signs and gestures to communicate.

On the way, they encounter a group of dancers led by a woman named Miss Chen, who gives Chang Geng a sense of unease due to her aloofness and the scent of pacifying incense she emits.

Meanwhile, Cao Niangzi, disguised as a Dongying youth, infiltrates a brig and frees mechanics imprisoned there, claiming to be an ally of Marshal Gu sent to suppress the revolt.

Gu Yun, Chang Geng, and Ge Pangxiao are led to an unassuming sea dragon ship surrounded by a fleet.

An iron puppet attacks Gu Yun as they board the ship, but Gu Yun swiftly defeats it, proving his combat prowess even in his current state.

The middle-aged man who summoned them, recognizing Gu Yun's skill, tries to engage in a conversation to recruit him, revealing his disdain for the current emperor and his intentions of rebellion.

Gu Yun dismisses the man’s words, showing disdain and threatening to leave when the true leader, Commander Huang Qiao of the Jiangnan Army and Navy, appears.

Gu Yun removes his blindfold, revealing he isn’t blind after all, and identifies Huang Qiao as an old acquaintance from the military, exposing his true sight and surprising everyone present.

Cao Niangzi frees a group of imprisoned artificers on a small ship, who then jump into the ocean to sabotage the enemy fleet’s propulsion systems.

Gu Yun reveals his identity to Huang Qiao, the rebel leader, shocking him and the soldiers on the flagship.

The soldiers and Dongying fighters panic as they see Black Hawks attacking from the sky, thinking the Black Iron Battalion has arrived.

Huang Qiao refuses to believe Gu Yun has brought the entire Black Iron Battalion and orders his men to attack.

A fight breaks out on the ship; Chang Geng fights Huang Qiao and subdues him with the help of Ge Pangxiao's iron sphere.

Outside, the lights on the decks of the sea dragon fleet begin to go dark one by one, and the sounds of an entire army surround them.

In reality, the "Black Iron Battalion" is a ruse created by Black Hawks, monks, and artificers using squid ink and ventriloquism to confuse the rebels.

The actual Black Iron Tiger Tally, a token granting Gu Yun authority over all military forces, is presented by a Black Hawk to take control of the Jiangnan Navy.

With the arrival of the Jiangnan Navy and the giant kite, the rebel soldiers surrender. The situation is secured, and the rebels are apprehended.

The pipa-playing woman, Chen Qingxu, is revealed to be from the Linyuan Pavilion, a group of mysterious and skilled individuals. She had been assisting Gu Yun.

Liao Ran, disguised in Black Carapace armor, makes an urgent report about the arrival of the Jiangnan Navy and advises Gu Yun to rest inside the cabin.

Gu Yun agrees and heads toward the cabin with Chang Geng, but they are ambushed by a Dongying assassin using silk darts.

Gu Yun narrowly avoids the darts, but the attack causes him to stumble, revealing his weakened state. Chang Geng catches him and realizes that Gu Yun is drenched in cold sweat, indicating that he is seriously unwell.

Gu Yun, though in immense pain, tries to downplay his condition, but Chang Geng sees through his facade and is torn between concern and anger.

Gu Yun jokes about being on his "time of the month," further frustrating Chang Geng, who realizes Gu Yun is trying to deflect from his true state.

Despite Gu Yun’s playful attitude, Chang Geng helps him sit in the ringleader's chair and massages his temples to ease his headache.

Gu Yun falls into a feigned sleep to avoid further questions. Chang Geng, lost in thought and driven by the wu'ergu within him, contemplates his growing, complex feelings for Gu Yun.

Realizing his dangerous thoughts, Chang Geng leaves the cabin to clear his mind.

Outside, the battlefield is being cleaned up, and the captured rebels are being handled by the Jiangnan Navy under Yao Zhen’s command.

Two days later, in Yao Zhen’s estate, Gu Yun and Yao Zhen discuss how to report the rebellion to the emperor, deciding to frame it as an accomplishment of the Regional Judiciary Commissioner to avoid implicating Gu Yun directly.

Yao Zhen suggests highlighting Chang Geng’s role in the rebellion’s defeat in the report to help improve his standing with the emperor.

Gu Yun considers this and thinks it might ease the emperor's reservations about Chang Geng’s origins.

Gu Yun then sees Chang Geng carving flutes for Yao Zhen’s daughters in the courtyard and attempts to get one for himself, but Chang Geng brushes him off, saying it’s just a child’s toy.

Gu Yun informs Chang Geng of his impending return to the northwest and suggests that Chang Geng might soon join him if the emperor allows it.

Contrary to Gu Yun’s expectations, Chang Geng calmly states that he no longer wishes to go to the Western Regions.

Gu Yun is surprised and confused by Chang Geng’s decision not to go to the Western Regions. Chang Geng explains that he feels he would be a burden to Gu Yun and doesn’t want to rely on fabricated achievements.

Gu Yun suggests that Chang Geng could return to the capital and start attending court early, but Chang Geng dismisses this idea as equally pointless.

Chang Geng expresses his desire to travel the world with Liao Ran and his group. Gu Yun becomes angry and refuses the idea, stating that the jianghu is dangerous and that Liao Ran isn’t trustworthy.

A tense exchange follows, with Chang Geng accusing Gu Yun of going back on his word to support whatever path he chooses.

Gu Yun, in his anger, storms off, but Chang Geng remains resolute in his decision.

Liao Ran, who overheard their argument, attempts to comfort Chang Geng, explaining that the marquis has his best interests at heart.

Chang Geng reveals his inner turmoil and the sense of unworthiness he feels due to his origins, contrasting sharply with the imperial position he has been given.

Chang Geng confronts Liao Ran about Gu Yun’s health issues, but the monk refuses to disclose anything, hinting that it’s a sensitive topic for Gu Yun.

Gu Yun receives an urgent letter from Shen Yi, calling him back to the northwest immediately.

Gu Yun and Chang Geng have another disagreement about Chang Geng’s decision to travel. Chang Geng remains firm, stating he wants to experience life outside the confines of the court or the military.

Gu Yun issues a strict order to his Black Hawk soldiers to prevent Chang Geng from leaving the capital without permission.

Gu Yun leaves for the northwest early the next morning, without saying goodbye to Chang Geng, still upset by their unresolved conflict.

Gu Yun, back in the northwest, receives a report from Shen Yi about a possible violet gold mine in Loulan, creating potential complications for the empire.

Gu Yun orders Shen Yi to silence the source of the information to prevent the knowledge of the mine from spreading.

In the capital, Emperor Li Feng receives two conflicting reports about the East Sea rebellion. One credits local officials, while the other implies Gu Yun’s involvement and potential connections to the Linyuan Pavilion.

Li Feng is disturbed by the sudden appearance of the Linyuan Pavilion and its possible connection to Gu Yun, considering the implications of this group's reappearance after years of silence.

Li Feng contemplates how to distribute the military power away from Gu Yun, hinting at a desire to balance or reduce his influence.

Li Feng, the Longan Emperor, was determined and hands-on in his rule, contrasting with his father, the Yuanhe Emperor.

In the first year of Longan, Gu Yun was ordered to escort the Tianlang Crown Prince to the northern border and establish new branches of the Silk Road in the Western Regions.

In the second year, Prince Wei’s plot to strike the capital from the sea with a fleet of dragon warships was foiled. He was imprisoned and later “committed suicide” by drinking poison.

The Jiangnan region underwent a purge, with over eighty officials implicated and many executed or exiled. The seized lands were taken over by the court, centralizing power.

By the fourth year of Longan, the Token of Mastery Law was implemented, requiring civilian artificers to register and be authorized to work. This was done to control the flow of violet gold and prevent unauthorized military use.

Li Feng also introduced the Marching Orders Decree, which required all military movements to be authorized by marching orders decrees from the Ministry of War. This effectively undermined the autonomy of regional commanders.

The Black Iron Battalion, led by Gu Yun, was exempt from this decree, but it still threatened Gu Yun’s military influence.

The new decree caused a national debate and a crisis in the court, especially among military officials. Despite the uproar, the law was not repealed but remained a looming threat.

Chang Geng, now around nineteen or twenty, is traveling disguised as a poor scholar. He enters a small tavern and overhears a debate about the emperor’s policies and the impact on Gu Yun’s military power.

After a disagreement with Gu Yun four years ago, Chang Geng had left the Marquis Estate and traveled the world, frequently avoiding the soldiers Gu Yun sent to watch over him.

A soldier from the Black Iron Battalion catches up to Chang Geng, informing him that Gu Yun plans to return to the capital for the New Year.

Chang Geng expresses mixed feelings about seeing Gu Yun again, feeling anxious about the reunion.

On his journey, Chang Geng encounters an elderly couple in distress. Using his medical skills, he helps the unconscious man.

He takes them to the house of Chen Qingxu, a member of the Linyuan Pavilion, revealing he has connections to the group.

Chang Geng visits Chen Qingxu’s house in Central Shu, where he is on familiar terms.

Chen Qingxu is a skilled jianghu physician, who has treated Chang Geng for his wu'ergu attacks and taught him some medical skills.

The young soldier from the Black Iron Battalion, who has been tailing Chang Geng, becomes suspicious of Chang Geng's relationship with Chen Qingxu.

An older woman arrives with a sick elderly man, explaining the difficulties faced by farmers due to the new agricultural policies and floods in the south.

Chang Geng assists with the treatment, showcasing his growing medical skills. He writes a prescription for the old man and listens to the woman’s struggles.

It is revealed that many fields are left fallow due to bureaucratic disputes, and local farmers are suffering.

Chen Qingxu provides Chang Geng with a new formulation of pacifying fragrance to help with his wu’ergu symptoms.

Chang Geng learns from Chen Qingxu that Gu Yun will be passing through Central Shu on his way south, contrary to what he had been told.

Chang Geng decides to wait in Central Shu for Gu Yun, despite his inner conflict and anxiety about seeing him again.

Over several days, Chang Geng dresses in fine clothing and loiters on the official road, hoping to encounter Gu Yun, but he struggles with the decision to either stay or leave.

On the fourth or fifth day, as he contemplates his actions, he hears the thunder of approaching hoofbeats and turns to see several large horses pulling a carriage, causing his heart to race.

Shen Yi and Gu Yun are traveling south to deal with the situation involving General Fu Zhicheng, who has used the death of his mother as an excuse to express his dissatisfaction with the Marching Orders Decree.

Fu Zhicheng's request to go into mourning is seen as an indirect challenge to the emperor’s authority and a way to pressure the court, especially given the flooding in the south.

Assistant Minister Sun Jiao, a supporter of the Marching Orders Decree, was sent as an imperial envoy to the southern border but was too scared to go alone, so Gu Yun was ordered to accompany him.

Gu Yun happens to encounter Chang Geng on the road. Chang Geng pretends it’s a coincidence, though it’s clear he has been waiting for Gu Yun.

They continue the journey together at a leisurely pace, much to Sun Jiao's relief, as the journey had previously been rough for him.

Gu Yun is initially stern with Chang Geng for avoiding the capital for the past four years but softens when Chang Geng explains that he didn't want to return without Gu Yun being there.

Chang Geng reveals he has been studying medicine to take care of Gu Yun, surprising Gu Yun with his consideration.

Gu Yun falls asleep while talking to Chang Geng, who watches over him through the night.

The next day, Chen Qingxu arrives to check on Gu Yun's condition. She confirms that his eyesight is deteriorating and suggests that if he continues using the medicine sparingly, he might prolong his vision for a few more years.

Chen Qingxu gives Gu Yun an acupuncture treatment method for his headaches and reveals that Chang Geng has studied acupuncture and can assist him.

Chen Qingxu tells Gu Yun she plans to travel beyond the borders to find a cure for his condition, though Gu Yun advises against it for her safety.

Gu Yun decides to delay their journey south, seemingly taking his time on purpose and mixing with merchant caravans.

Shen Yi warns Gu Yun about the risks of offending Sun Jiao, but Gu Yun implies it's all part of his plan to keep the Ministry of War at bay.

As they pass through a narrow mountain road, Gu Yun casually remarks about the risk of bandit ambushes in such terrain, right before a horn sounds, signaling an attack.

A group of mountain bandits, named "Apricot Grove," ambush Gu Yun and his party, hoisting a flag and brandishing homemade armor.

Chang Geng notices the bandits' amateurish setup, and Gu Yun realizes the attack is more than a simple robbery; it suggests possible collusion between the southern border officials and the bandits.

The southern border is known for its bandits due to economic instability caused by the implementation of farming puppets and floods, leading to a symbiotic relationship between the Southern Border Army and the bandits.

Gu Yun aims to protect General Fu Zhicheng despite his indirect involvement with the bandits, intending to maintain stability until the Silk Road is fully operational and the nation’s economy improves.

The bandits make a poorly coordinated attack on Gu Yun's group. Gu Yun orders Shen Yi to shoot the bandit with the copper squall.

Sun Jiao, the Assistant Minister, panics and tries to stop Gu Yun from escalating the situation, fearing for their safety and Chang Geng's status.

Gu Yun decides to confront the bandits directly, leading Chang Geng and his soldiers up the mountain to show him how to "hunt monkeys."

The bandit chief, encased in stolen heavy armor, orders his men to attack, but they are unorganized and easily overwhelmed by the Black Iron Battalion.

Gu Yun displays his battle prowess, taking control of the situation and eliminating the bandits' ambushes. He uses a specialized bow with a gold tank to shoot an iron arrow that causes a giant boulder to crush the bandit chief.

Gu Yun's forces quickly dismantle the bandits' encirclement, taking control of the area and capturing the few remaining bandits who failed to escape.

They discover the bandit chief’s throne is built on gold bricks, highlighting the wealth amassed through their plundering.

Minister Sun tries to leverage the situation to incriminate Fu Zhicheng, but Chang Geng suggests that bandits who are cooperative might avoid the most severe punishment, causing them to plead for mercy.

A Black Iron Battalion soldier informs Gu Yun that Inspector General Kuai Lantu is on his way with two hundred personal guards, implying that Kuai Lantu aims to catch Fu Zhicheng off guard.

Gu Yun suspects foul play and that Kuai Lantu might have been alerted prematurely, possibly through Sun Jiao’s intervention.

Sun Jiao admits he informed the Inspector General and had already prepared a marching orders decree before the journey, implying a plot to use this situation to take down General Fu.

Sun Jiao attempts to flatter Gu Yun and reveals that this marching orders decree, the first of its kind, is intended to target General Fu Zhicheng, highlighting the political maneuvering at play.

Inspector General Kuai Lantu, with a strong force including heavy armor and light pelts, sees an opportunity to take down General Fu Zhicheng and destroy the bandits who support him.

Kuai Lantu sets a trap by spreading rumors of an imperial investigation, sowing doubt among the bandits about Fu Zhicheng's loyalty. He then attacks the bandit chief Jing Xu's lair, burning it down and killing everyone to ensure no survivors.

Kuai Lantu sets out to meet Gu Yun after executing the trap, intending to manipulate the situation to his advantage.

Fu Zhicheng, upon learning about the ambush on Gu Yun, decides to mobilize almost half of the Southern Border Army to meet Gu Yun, reflecting his uncertainty about Gu Yun's intentions.

Meanwhile, various forces including merchants disguised as soldiers mobilize towards Apricot Grove under the cover of night, signaling the impending escalation.

At Apricot Grove, Sun Jiao’s interrogation of the bandits yields little information. He anxiously awaits Kuai Lantu’s arrival.

Gu Yun acts nonchalant and even jokes about robbing the bandits, hinting at his awareness of the political schemes around him.

Kuai Lantu arrives at Apricot Grove and is surprised to see Prince Yanbei, Chang Geng, with Gu Yun, making him nervous about his plan.

Kuai Lantu’s personal guard reports that Fu Zhicheng is approaching with tens of thousands of soldiers, indicating a direct confrontation.

Gu Yun, unbothered, orders to "invite" Fu Zhicheng up, showing a willingness to face him directly despite the potential danger.

Chang Geng and Shen Yi observe the Southern Border Army approaching, with Shen Yi noting Chang Geng's calm demeanor in the face of the impending conflict.

Chang Geng reflects on past experiences with Gu Yun, stating that there’s no point in being afraid, revealing his learned resilience and trust in Gu Yun.

Shen Yi is surprised to learn Chang Geng believes Gu Yun might not be set on saving Fu Zhicheng, hinting at a deeper strategy at play.

Kuai Lantu's personal guards allow the Southern Border Army, led by Fu Zhicheng, to pass, leaving a narrow path lined with blades, indicating tension and distrust.

Fu Zhicheng arrives with over a hundred elite soldiers, armed to the teeth, showing his readiness for confrontation rather than diplomacy.

The Southern Border Army surrounds Apricot Grove, and the atmosphere becomes tense as Kuai Lantu and Fu Zhicheng face off.

Fu Zhicheng attempts to act with some civility, bowing to Gu Yun, but Gu Yun bluntly accuses him of colluding with bandits and conspiring against the nation.

Chang Geng, from his vantage point in the attic, discusses the political situation with Shen Yi, suggesting that Gu Yun might not intend to save Fu Zhicheng and is weighing the pros and cons of the situation.

Kuai Lantu, seeing an opportunity, orders his guards to arrest Fu Zhicheng, igniting a battle between the Inspector General's forces and Fu Zhicheng's men.

Chang Geng takes aim with the heavy bow Gu Yun gave him and shoots an iron arrow with incredible precision, stopping the fight momentarily by killing a heavy armor soldier and nearly hitting Kuai Lantu.

Shen Yi realizes that Gu Yun may be orchestrating the conflict to let Kuai Lantu and Fu Zhicheng destroy each other, thereby solving the political problem without directly involving himself.

Gu Yun questions Kuai Lantu about his unauthorized possession of heavy armor, putting Kuai Lantu on the defensive.

A chaotic battle ensues between Fu Zhicheng's personal guards and Kuai Lantu’s forces within the bandit’s lair.

Chang Geng reveals that Gu Yun's ultimate goal might be to ensure stability and peace for the nation, even if it means sacrificing regional commanders like Fu Zhicheng.

A mechanical bird delivers a message to Chang Geng, alarming him and indicating that there is more to the situation.

A southern border soldier unexpectedly assassinates Kuai Lantu with a blow dart, while a Black Iron guard kills the assassin, resulting in a sudden, chaotic climax.

Black Hawks of the Black Iron Battalion arrive, indicating a larger military presence and turning the situation into a full-scale operation.

Chang Geng realizes that the true instigator behind all these events might not be Kuai Lantu, Sun Jiao, or Gu Yun, hinting at a deeper conspiracy.

The bandit chief Jing Xu, along with his men, realizes they are being led into a trap meant for robbing outsiders, known as "sounding the bells."

Sensing danger, Jing Xu interrogates the Southern Border Army soldier guiding them and discovers inconsistencies in his story. The soldier attempts an attack and commits suicide by poison.

Jing Xu learns that his mountain stronghold has been attacked and destroyed, leaving behind only ruins and burnt corpses.

A desperate attempt to use secret tunnels fails as they have been blown up, revealing that the stronghold was hiding violet gold, which exploded.

Jing Xu realizes the attack was deliberate, as he was smuggling violet gold for Fu Zhicheng, keeping a tenth of the supply for himself. He plans revenge on Fu Zhicheng, believing he was betrayed.

In the bandit lair at Apricot Grove, Chang Geng presents a map showing the southern border’s bandit factions, mentioning the three great bandit chiefs, with Jing Xu being the most notable for smuggling violet gold.

Chang Geng reveals that Jing Xu smuggles violet gold, alarming Gu Yun, who realizes this means treason. He suspects that Kuai Lantu was unaware of this, and his attack inadvertently destroyed evidence of Fu Zhicheng’s crime.

Chang Geng explains that the violet gold in the southern border is smuggled from overseas, hinting at a larger plot involving foreign nations to the south.

Gu Yun orders his men to capture the three great bandit chiefs, arrest Kuai Lantu’s guards to find out who suggested the plan to incite conflict, and interrogate Fu Zhicheng.

Gu Yun’s eyesight begins to weaken, and Chang Geng suggests performing acupuncture to help alleviate his headache, revealing his competence and care.

During their conversation, Chang Geng shares his motives for traveling, quoting a teaching from Liao Ran about expanding one's heart through experiencing the world.

Gu Yun deduces that Chang Geng was trained by Zhong Chan, the former General of Flying Cavalry, who was dismissed for defying the late emperor.

Gu Yun falls asleep during the acupuncture session, vaguely feeling someone touch his face.

Upon waking, Gu Yun learns that the three great bandit chiefs have gathered their forces and formed a rebel army at the mouth of the Nandu River.

The rebels are reported to possess parhelion bows, heavy armor infantrymen, and hawks, indicating a significant and well-equipped force.

Gu Yun is alerted to the presence of hawks in the bandits' forces and is shocked, as hawks are rare and mainly used by the Black Iron Battalion.

Gu Yun interrogates Fu Zhicheng, who claims ignorance about the hawks and the current state of the rebellion.

Shen Yi reports that Fu Zhicheng confessed to using the bandit chief Jing Xu to smuggle violet gold but was unaware of its ultimate origins.

Gu Yun prepares to confront the rebel army, placing the Southern Border Army under his command.

Jing Xu meets with a foreigner named Mister Ja, who explains that their goal is not to fight the Black Iron Battalion head-on but to distract Gu Yun and lure him away from his base.

Mister Ja reveals a plan to capture the Southwest Supply Depot by sneaking bandits into the depot disguised as a violet gold shipment, intending to destroy it from within.

The Southwest Supply Depot contains a large stock of violet gold; if it were to explode, it would devastate the Black Iron Battalion and implicate Gu Yun in the disaster.

A second wooden bird arrives for Chang Geng, containing a schematic of the bandits' hawk armor, which is revealed to be a poor imitation of the real thing, meant to serve as a distraction.

Gu Yun deduces that the hawks and armor are meant to lure him away from the true target, the Southwest Supply Depot.

Fu Zhicheng confirms that the violet gold deliveries go directly to the Southwest Supply Depot.

Gu Yun orders Shen Yi and the Black Hawks to secure the Southwest Supply Depot before the bandits arrive and sends a contingent of the Southern Border Army to feign an attack on the bandits' gathering.

Jing Xu and the bandits begin their plan to take the Southwest Supply Depot by hiding in a violet gold transport caravan.

At the depot, the bandits' leader tries to rush the warehouse but is stopped by a sudden attack, losing his hand in the process.

Shen Yi, using the Black Iron Tiger Tally and the marching orders decree, takes control of the Southwest Supply Depot, arresting the bandits and preventing the attack.

The bandits, unaware their plan has failed, are surrounded by the Southern Border Army disguised in black armor and the Black Iron Battalion, who prepare to eliminate them.

Jing Xu sees the head of the heavy armor bandit rolling down the mountain, realizing their attack has been thwarted, and faces the end as arrows from the mountain peak take aim at them.

Gu Yun interrogates the bandit chief Jing Xu and other captured bandits, extracting information about the numerous entrances to their secret tunnels.

Gu Yun is cautious about Chang Geng's involvement and ensures he stays away during the brutal interrogations.

Gu Yun forces the bandits to reveal the locations of the hidden entrances by threatening them with execution.

The bandits, fearing for their lives, quickly provide over sixty-four entrances to the secret tunnels.

Jing Xu, trying to save himself, reveals details about Fu Zhicheng's smuggling of violet gold but is pressured further by Gu Yun.

Jing Xu finally divulges the name of his foreign contact, Mister Ja, who had encouraged him to assemble the forces and orchestrated the rebellion.

Chang Geng waits patiently with his companions, Ge Chen and Cao Chunhua, while Gu Yun conducts the interrogation.

Gu Yun finds no traces of Mister Ja in the tunnels despite thoroughly searching the area.

The mysterious figure, Mister Ja, is revealed to be on a cargo ship sailing the South Sea. He plots the downfall of Great Liang by setting in motion multiple points of conflict, including the northern border and the East Sea.

Gu Yun is ordered to escort the captured bandits and Fu Zhicheng back to the capital. He prepares for the journey while ensuring Chang Geng’s safety.

On the journey back, Chang Geng discovers a small bamboo flute among Gu Yun’s belongings, implying a connection and sentimentality from Gu Yun toward him.

Chang Geng becomes hopeful about the nature of Gu Yun's feelings for him after this discovery.

The southern border rebellion creates a political upheaval in the capital, leading to severe punishment for those involved or associated with Fu Zhicheng.

Fu Zhicheng and the rebel leaders are sentenced to death, with a broad investigation sweeping up others connected to them.

The political climate in the capital becomes tense and paranoid as officials are imprisoned, dismissed, or executed.

A snowstorm marks the beginning of the year, symbolizing the cold and oppressive atmosphere engulfing the court and capital.

Gu Yun relinquishes the Black Iron Tiger Tally as the Marching Orders Decree is implemented, tightening the emperor's control over the military.

The emperor, Li Feng, shows regard for Gu Yun by promoting Shen Yi and appointing him as the commander in chief of the Southwest Army. He also confers the title of Prince Yanbei on the Fourth Imperial Prince, Li Min (Chang Geng).

Shen Yi’s father, Old Mister Shen, brings carts full of homemade wine to the Marquis Estate to celebrate Gu Yun’s birthday and thank him for Shen Yi’s promotion.

Gu Yun returns from a palace meeting, appearing uncharacteristically unhappy, indicating trouble brewing at the court.

Shen Yi learns from Gu Yun that Master Fenghan, head of the Lingshu Institute, is in trouble with the emperor for opposing the Token of Mastery Law.

Gu Yun and Shen Yi discuss the emperor's growing paranoia and the political turmoil in the capital, hinting at the emperor's fear of Gu Yun and the power he holds.

A celebration takes place at the Marquis Estate for Gu Yun's birthday, where everyone drinks heavily, and Ge Chen showcases repaired iron puppets performing a dance.

Chang Geng prepares a bowl of longevity noodles for Gu Yun, showcasing his growth and domestic skills.

As the celebration progresses, everyone gets drunk, with Shen Yi hinting at the emperor's fear of Gu Yun and the previous attempts to undermine him.

Chang Geng tries to manage the situation, becoming more sober after hearing Shen Yi’s drunken ramblings about past betrayals and dangers to Gu Yun.

Gu Yun, drunk and emotional, babbles incoherently and mistakes Chang Geng for someone else.

In a drunken stupor, Gu Yun mistakes Chang Geng for a romantic partner and starts kissing him.

Chang Geng, overwhelmed by the situation, realizes that Gu Yun doesn't recognize him and pulls away in confusion and turmoil.

Chang Geng flees the room after the encounter, leaving Gu Yun asleep and unaware of what transpired.

Gu Yun wakes up with a hangover and reflects on his recent anxieties, realizing he may have been overthinking the state of the nation.

He recalls his drunken actions from the previous night and is horrified to find Chang Geng’s filigree sachet in his bed, realizing that he had made inappropriate advances towards him.

In a panic, Gu Yun tries to discuss his concerns with Shen Yi but ends up saying nothing coherent.

Gu Yun learns from the old housekeeper that Chang Geng left for the National Temple early that morning.

Jiang Chong, the Chief Justice of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review, secretly meets with Gu Yun to warn him that the emperor plans to launch a thorough investigation into the domestic violet gold black market, starting with the southwest.

Gu Yun realizes this could have far-reaching implications, especially given his own connections to the violet gold market.

Jiang Chong advises Gu Yun to be careful, hinting that many court officials are secretly involved in the black market, and the upcoming investigation could create chaos.

They also discuss Master Fenghan, who is still imprisoned due to his opposition to the Token of Mastery Law, and Gu Yun suggests the emperor may eventually calm down and forgive him.

After this meeting, Gu Yun goes to the Marquis Estate to find that Chang Geng hasn’t returned, having decided to stay at the National Temple for a while.

Several days pass without Chang Geng returning, leading Gu Yun to visit the National Temple.

At the temple, Chang Geng asks Liao Ran about the cause of Gu Yun’s blindness and hearing loss. Liao Ran tells him it was due to a poisoned arrow shot by a northern barbarian suicide squad when Gu Yun was a child.

This account matches Gu Yun’s previous explanation, but it doesn’t fully align with Shen Yi’s earlier drunken comments, leaving Chang Geng with lingering doubts.

The scene ends with a young novice monk entering the room to inform Chang Geng and Liao Ran that the Marquis of Anding has arrived at the temple.

Liao Ran is surprised by Gu Yun's visit to the National Temple since Gu Yun generally avoids religious places. Gu Yun's appearance causes Chang Geng anxiety as he fears facing Gu Yun after their drunken encounter.

Both Gu Yun and Chang Geng are dealing with guilt, each thinking they had wronged the other during their drunken encounter.

Liao Ran notices Chang Geng's agitation, which is unusual for him given his typically calm demeanor.

Gu Yun, feeling awkward about the situation, tells Chang Geng that it's time to return home.

While walking back, Gu Yun reconsiders Chang Geng’s recent behavior, worrying that Chang Geng might have been harassed by someone in the jianghu because of his appearance.

Gu Yun thinks of pretending ignorance about the night of the drunken incident.

Chang Geng mentions losing his sachet, prompting Gu Yun to return it to him, explaining that it somehow ended up on his bed. Chang Geng is shocked but relieved as he realizes Gu Yun doesn't know what really happened.

Gu Yun informs Chang Geng that the emperor wants him to start attending court assemblies and asks if there is a specific position he wants.

Chang Geng states he prefers not to disrupt the work of the Six Ministries and would be content helping the Imperial Court of Judicial Review.

Gu Yun warns him to avoid the Imperial Court of Judicial Review for the time being due to the investigation into the violet gold black market.

Chang Geng discusses the challenges of managing the violet gold trade and the emperor's likely reinstatement of the Gold-Consolidation Decree, highlighting his understanding of the complex political and economic situation.

Gu Yun regrets that Chang Geng’s status as the prince limits his potential to contribute to the nation.

While riding back to the Marquis Estate, Gu Yun becomes increasingly aware of Chang Geng’s attentive behavior and realizes that Chang Geng might have feelings for him.

Gu Yun is consumed with his worries about the Gold-Consolidation Decree, the violet gold market investigation, and Master Fenghan's situation.

On the twenty-third day of the first month, Gu Yun sees off Shen Yi, who leaves for his new post in the southwest.

The emperor remembers Master Fenghan's past help and decides to release him from prison, deducting half a year of salary as punishment.

With these issues settled, Gu Yun requests to return to Loulan, which the emperor quickly approves.

On the night before his departure, Gu Yun is summoned to the imperial palace, feeling a sense of foreboding as his eyelid twitches.

Gu Yun is summoned to the imperial palace in the middle of the night, where he unexpectedly finds Chang Geng waiting for him in the outer chamber.

Chang Geng offers Gu Yun a hot drink before he leaves, showcasing his attentiveness and care, which makes Gu Yun uncomfortable.

Gu Yun is led to the palace, where he encounters a group of Western envoys, indicating some diplomatic engagement with the West.

Zhu Xiaojiao, the emperor’s personal attendant, informs Gu Yun that the emperor is in a good mood, but this only increases Gu Yun’s unease.

Inside the Warm Pavilion, Emperor Li Feng informs Gu Yun about an investigation into the violet gold black market, revealing that some of the violet gold originates from outside Great Liang, including Loulan.

Gu Yun is shocked to see Loulan listed as a source and learns that the information came from captured Sindhu "gold scuttles" (smugglers) who claimed to have found a treasure map indicating violet gold reserves in Loulan.

The emperor tasks Gu Yun with investigating these claims, hinting at an expectation to consider military action against Loulan.

Gu Yun is conflicted, feeling that the peace and prosperity of the Silk Road should not be sacrificed based on unsubstantiated rumors.

He recalls the past kindnesses of Loulan, who had aided Great Liang during the rebellion in the Western Regions and had joined the Silk Road agreement.

Gu Yun refuses to lead the Black Iron Battalion to invade Loulan, arguing that such an act would be inhumane and immoral.

Emperor Li Feng becomes furious at Gu Yun’s defiance, throwing an inkstone at him and demanding to know what he is trying to achieve.

Gu Yun stands his ground, stating that an army without humanity and morality is inauspicious and refuses to accept the emperor’s orders.

Gu Yun and Emperor Li Feng have a tense confrontation over the plan to invade Loulan based on unsubstantiated claims of violet gold mines.

Gu Yun defies the emperor, arguing that sending troops to invade Loulan would be inhumane and immoral, given Loulan’s past friendship and aid to Great Liang.

Emperor Li Feng becomes furious and threatens Gu Yun, questioning his loyalty and the real power of the Black Iron Tiger Tally.

Imperial Uncle Wang tries to pacify the emperor, but Li Feng is already in a dark mood, doubting Gu Yun's loyalty and considering the influence he has over the military.

Gu Yun is ordered to kneel outside the Warm Pavilion as punishment for defying the emperor, while the emperor and Wang Guo discuss the situation, with Li Feng harboring suspicions about Gu Yun's power.

Zhu Xiaojiao, the emperor's personal attendant, tries to help Gu Yun by suggesting summoning Chang Geng to the palace, but Gu Yun refuses, preferring to face the consequences alone.

As Gu Yun kneels in the snow, he begins to piece together the possibility of a conspiracy involving the violet gold black market and the events in the East Sea and southwest, realizing someone may have intentionally manipulated events to provoke the emperor’s reactions.

Chang Geng, worried about Gu Yun, contacts the National Temple and manages to get Great Master Liao Chi to intervene on Gu Yun’s behalf.

With Liao Chi's influence, the emperor decides to revoke Gu Yun's seal of command temporarily and dock his salary for three months, allowing him to return to the Marquis Estate to reflect on his actions.

Chang Geng finds Gu Yun outside the palace, wrapping him in a fox fur coat and showing deep concern for his health, which surprises Gu Yun.

In the carriage, Chang Geng fights off a wu’ergu attack induced by worry and anger, his demeanor startling Gu Yun.

Gu Yun senses something is off with Chang Geng and checks his pulse, suspecting qi deviation caused by improper martial training.

Gu Yun directly confronts Chang Geng, asking if he has an unspeakable romantic secret, leaving Chang Geng in a difficult position.

Gu Yun confronts Chang Geng about his feelings, suspecting there might be romantic attachment involved.

Chang Geng’s intense emotional reaction causes him to throw up blood, revealing the severity of his internal turmoil.

Gu Yun is alarmed but doesn't know how to handle the situation, feeling conflicted and concerned for Chang Geng's well-being.

Chang Geng admits to having inappropriate romantic feelings for Gu Yun, stemming from his lack of parental love and attachment to Gu Yun.

Chang Geng offers to leave the Marquis Estate and promises not to overstep his bounds if Gu Yun finds him to be an eyesore.

Gu Yun struggles with how to respond, feeling out of his depth and unsure how to proceed with the relationship.

Gu Yun receives a message through a wooden bird from Chen Qingxu about an incident involving Gu Yun beyond the northern border, which Chang Geng suspects might have been a turning point for Gu Yun.

Chang Geng begins investigating an old case involving Gu Yun’s time in the northwest, suspecting something significant occurred.

Chang Geng avoids Gu Yun after their confrontation, leaving Gu Yun in a state of turmoil.

The Longan Emperor pushes to reinstate the Gold-Consolidation Decree, causing friction within the court.

A corruption scandal is uncovered, leading to turmoil in the government as the emperor takes decisive action.

A Black Hawk secretly arrives at the Marquis Estate to deliver a report from He Ronghui to Gu Yun.

The report details a conflict in the Western Regions between the countries of Qiemo and Qiuci, with Loulan’s envoy being ambushed.

Loulan accuses Qiuci of orchestrating the ambush and sends a light cavalry unit led by a royal prince to demand an explanation, but they are defeated by Qiuci’s sand tigers.

The use of sand tigers, heavy war chariots powered by violet gold, causes alarm as it mirrors the situation in the southwest rebellion.

Loulan requests aid from Great Liang, but the Black Iron Battalion is ordered to lie low and wait for marching orders, causing frustration for Gu Yun.

Gu Yun realizes the situation in the Western Regions is more severe and chaotic than expected, with Qiuci possessing an improbable number of sand tigers, likely backed by a powerful and ruthless enemy.

Gu Yun considers the possibility that this enemy is taking advantage of his current confinement in the capital and aiming to create a larger conflict.

Gu Yun suspects that the Emperor, Li Feng, has been caught off guard and fears the Black Iron Battalion will act without authorization, so he refuses to issue a marching orders decree.

Gu Yun sends the Black Hawk to relay orders, but realizes it may be too late to change the course of events in the northwest.

Chang Geng approaches Gu Yun, offering his insights, and correctly deduces the nature of the crisis at the border.

Chang Geng speculates that the enemy might be attempting to kill two birds with one stone by creating an impression of impending invasion to provoke a reaction from the Black Iron Battalion.

He suggests that if the Black Iron Battalion requests reinforcements, it might be seen as a threat by the Emperor, deepening the distrust between the military and the political power.

Chang Geng proposes a three-part plan: sending a Black Hawk to General Cai Bin of the Central Plains Garrison to prevent unauthorized troop movements, instructing He Ronghui to avoid offending the Protectorate of the Northwest, and Gu Yun submitting a memorial to relinquish his military command.

Gu Yun contemplates Chang Geng's maturity and strategic thinking, realizing how much he has grown since their first encounter.

Gu Yun tells Chang Geng that he wants him to be well and doesn't want him to force himself to do anything, indicating a more personal concern for him.

The chapter ends with Gu Yun coming to terms with the situation and mentally preparing himself to handle the challenges ahead.

Chang Geng is deeply affected after his conversation with Gu Yun, feeling conflicted and struggling to control his emotions.

He reflects on his past with Gu Yun and realizes that all his happy memories are connected to him, further complicating his feelings.

Chang Geng receives a letter from Chen Qingxu, who has identified the origin of the poison that affected Gu Yun years ago. She suggests there might be a way to create an antidote.

The letter hints that the poison is a secret of the barbarian goddess, and more information might be found within the imperial palace, adding another layer of intrigue to the story.

Gu Yun sends a memorial to the Emperor, sincerely admitting his faults and requesting to permanently give up his seal of command, claiming he can no longer fulfill his duties due to illness.

The Emperor responds by accepting Gu Yun's resignation but avoids appointing a new commander, showing some level of reluctance in completely cutting ties with Gu Yun.

The Emperor reminisces about his childhood with Gu Yun, finding a sample of Gu Yun's calligraphy from when they were young, revealing a nostalgic and somewhat softer side to his character.

The Protectorate of the Northwest sends an urgent report to the Emperor about the situation at the border, including the Black Iron Battalion's refusal to obey the Marching Orders Decree and the detention of Protector-General Meng.

The Emperor issues a light punishment to He Ronghui, reprimanding him but only docking his salary, showing leniency likely due to his memories of Gu Yun.

Chang Geng visits Gu Yun at the hot spring villa, where he finds Gu Yun relaxing and enjoying his time in the company of attendants, emphasizing Gu Yun's carefree nature.

Gu Yun invites Chang Geng to join him, displaying his usual nonchalance and teasing, even when discussing serious matters like the news from the border.

Gu Yun tries to address Chang Geng’s feelings towards him, explaining that such attachments might arise from growing up without parental love and that these feelings will fade with time.

Gu Yun encourages Chang Geng to take a break from his responsibilities and enjoy the pleasures of life, hinting at his understanding of Chang Geng's inner turmoil.

Chang Geng approaches Gu Yun and inspects the scars on his body, curious about his past and the experiences that shaped him into who he is today.

Chang Geng asks Gu Yun how he got his scars and insists on an open conversation between them, implying that he has deeper feelings for Gu Yun than just filial affection.

Gu Yun is taken aback when Chang Geng openly confesses that he desires Gu Yun, admitting that he thinks of him in a romantic and physical manner, even dreaming about it.

Gu Yun is shocked and tries to steer the conversation away, suggesting Chang Geng should return to reading scripture and letting go of these feelings.

Chang Geng questions whether Gu Yun finds him disgusting, but Gu Yun carefully avoids answering directly, implying that while he doesn't find Chang Geng disgusting, he cannot reciprocate his feelings.

Suddenly, they are attacked by an assassin in light pelt armor. Chang Geng saves Gu Yun from an arrow, and they fend off the attacker together.

Gu Yun realizes he has been drugged, which weakened him during the attack. Chang Geng confirms this after checking his pulse.

More assassins in light armor invade the villa, but they are overwhelmed by the estate guards. These assassins commit suicide by rupturing the gold tanks on their armor to self-destruct.

Gu Yun recalls a past incident where a similar suicide squad attacked his camp during his youth, bringing back memories of that traumatic event.

Chang Geng supports and helps Gu Yun to his room, indicating the depth of his care and concern for him.

That same night, a former imperial eunuch, now living in hiding as an ordinary citizen, commits suicide and leaves behind a blood letter, triggering a new crisis.

News of the assassination attempt on Gu Yun spreads quickly to the Northern Camp, and Tan Hongfei, commander of the Northern Camp, leads troops into the capital to investigate, escalating tensions.

The capital magistrate receives a complaint against the late Yuanhe Emperor, alleging he was deceived by a barbarian enchantress and conspired to poison a loyal subject, adding another layer of political intrigue and complexity to the situation.

A man claims that the late Yuanhe Emperor was deceived by the barbarian enchantresses, framing the former Marquis of Order for threatening the barbarians and embezzling violet gold.

He alleges that the elder barbarian sister became a consort to the emperor, while the younger sister was made a commandery princess, and they conspired to poison Gu Yun's father and turn the emperor against the Gu family.

Tan Hongfei, commander of the Northern Camp, is shocked as the man reveals that the emperor had sent thirty suicide fighters disguised as barbarians to assassinate the former marquis and his family.

Tan Hongfei recalls the incident from years ago when thirty light pelt assassins infiltrated the Northern Border Garrison, attacking while soldiers were paralyzed by a drug.

The man continues his story, detailing how the assassination failed and how the young Gu Yun survived but was injured, with the princess growing suspicious of an enemy within their ranks.

The man further explains that a second assassination attempt involved poisoning a gas lamp intended for the young Gu Yun, but it accidentally killed the third prince instead.

He claims that Imperial Uncle Wang Guo was the one behind these plots, and the letter he presents as evidence implicates Wang Guo directly.

The man commits suicide in the magistrate's office after delivering his accusations, leaving chaos and doubt in his wake.

Back at the hot spring villa, Chang Geng receives a wooden bird message detailing the incident and becomes distraught, embracing Gu Yun tightly as he struggles with his emotions.

Gu Yun prepares to return to the capital, intending to control the situation and stop Tan Hongfei. He orders his guards to ready his horse and send light pelts to intercept Tan Hongfei.

Chang Geng confronts Gu Yun, questioning why he still protects a corrupt nation and why he took him in all those years, revealing his deep internal conflict.

Gu Yun remains silent on the truth about his father's assassination and the poison used by the barbarians, knowing it’s too complex to explain.

Gu Yun rushes to the capital, but by the time he and his guards arrive, the Northern Camp has already mutinied, the Imperial Guard is mobilized, the city gates are sealed, and the capital is in turmoil.

Chang Geng warns Gu Yun that returning to the capital now could lead to disaster if Tan Hongfei's actions cannot be contained.

Chang Geng requests a token of authority from Gu Yun to reassure the military, fearing that Gu Yun's detention could unsettle the generals on the borders.

Gu Yun gives Chang Geng his personal seal, instructing him to contact Old General Zhong if necessary.

Gu Yun returns to the capital where Tan Hongfei has mutinied, surrounding the imperial palace and demanding the emperor hand over Wang Guo for his alleged crimes.

Li Feng, the emperor, confronts Tan Hongfei directly, and a dangerous standoff occurs between the Imperial Guard and the Northern Camp.

Gu Yun intervenes, using force to subdue Tan Hongfei and ordering the Northern Camp to withdraw beyond the nine gates, preventing an outright rebellion.

The Northern Camp retreats, but Tan Hongfei and eight other senior officers are imprisoned, along with Gu Yun.

Chang Geng sends messages to the Northwest and the East Sea coast, trying to prevent further chaos, but it is too late.

In the Western Regions, the Black Iron Battalion stands ready as tension builds. He Ronghui, acting commander, receives a message from the capital about the situation.

An armored soldier arrives from the capital with news of Gu Yun's detainment, prompting He Ronghui to storm the Protectorate of the Northwest.

The barbarians in the Western Regions prepare to attack as sand tigers roll out, and the Wolf King, Jialai Yinghuo, leads an army toward Great Liang.

In the northern frontier, Jialai Yinghuo receives a signal to begin his attack on the south, and the wolves charge.

In the East Sea, a large Western fleet disguised as merchant ships reveals itself as a formidable naval force, preparing to strike. The fleet is led by the same white-haired Westerner Gu Yun had previously encountered.

War and chaos threaten to engulf the nation from multiple fronts.

The pope of the West, disguised as an envoy, prepares for an invasion, signaling the beginning of their attack.

The pope and Mister Ja discuss the unpredictability of fate and their efforts to destabilize Great Liang by igniting conflicts.

The pope shows a melancholic reaction to the sea beasts, lamenting the impact of violet gold on humanity, calling it the "devil."

Gu Yun is imprisoned in the imperial dungeons, reflecting on the situation and the mistakes made in handling past events.

He thinks about the potential consequences and realizes that his actions, whether to expose or bury the truth, have led to this precarious moment.

In the Western Regions, the first signal arrow indicates an attack on the Black Iron Battalion.

Qiuci's forces use sand tigers to break through the entrance to the Silk Road, forcing the Black Iron Battalion into a tough battle.

He Ronghui struggles with depleted violet gold stores, hindering the Black Iron Battalion's ability to fight effectively.

Chang Geng’s messenger finally arrives, instructing He Ronghui to retreat to Jiayu Pass and await reinforcements instead of fighting to the death.

Simultaneously, the northern border is attacked by the barbarian forces led by Jialai Yinghuo, causing chaos and stretching the defenses thin.

Chang Geng plans strategic moves to stabilize the borders, requesting reinforcements from General Cai Bin and attempting to manage limited resources.

He recognizes the limitations of his influence in the southwest and along the East Sea, suspecting a looming threat in those regions.

Liao Ran stops Chang Geng at the palace gates, where they discuss the possibility of spies in the palace who have been collaborating with the enemy.

Chang Geng realizes that the situation has been long in the making and warns Liao Ran about investigating those connected to the barbarian women.

He briefly considers what the world would be like if he had been born earlier, implying he would have altered the course of events.

Chang Geng enters the palace amidst a barrage of bad news: the Black Iron Battalion's retreat, the loss of seven cities in the north, the Southwest Supply Depot's destruction, and the invasion by a Far Western navy.

The court learns that General Zhao Youfang has died defending against the invasion, leaving the nation in a dire situation.

Chang Geng feels a moment of malicious satisfaction when Li Feng collapses back onto his throne after receiving the news of the multiple crises facing the nation.

Li Feng's attention shifts to Chang Geng, who calmly advises the emperor to make immediate decisions to counter the threats at the borders.

Imperial Uncle Wang suggests moving the capital, but the court officials and generals are outraged by his cowardice.

Li Feng decides to restore Tan Hongfei to his position in hopes of redeeming his previous actions.

The Minister of War, Hu Guang, struggles to provide a viable battle plan, unable to suggest a solution for defending the capital.

Chang Geng steps forward with a calm demeanor, urging the emperor to distribute all violet gold in the national treasury to supply the troops immediately, regardless of future consequences.

A heated debate ensues among the officials about whether to distribute all the violet gold, considering the impact on the nation's future.

Chang Geng advises Li Feng to be prepared for a strategic retreat, suggesting they sacrifice some territory to avoid complete defeat, which causes an uproar among the ministers.

He points out that the Black Iron Battalion can hold the northwest, but the coastal defense is the most urgent, and the Northern Camp alone may not be enough to repel the Westerners.

Li Feng reluctantly decides to summon Gu Yun from the imperial dungeons to lead the defense, acknowledging the critical state of the nation's security.

Chang Geng discreetly ensures Gu Yun's dignity by arranging for proper court robes and armor to be brought to him before his audience with the emperor.

Gu Yun is informed about the dire situation on the borders, including the heavy casualties of the Black Iron Battalion and the loss of cities in the north.

Despite being physically affected by the news, Gu Yun maintains his composure and enters the palace to attend the emergency meeting with the emperor and the senior military officials.

Li Feng and the officials discuss adjustments to the capital’s defenses throughout the night, seeking to stabilize the situation.

After the meeting, Li Feng privately expresses regret to Gu Yun about the injustice of his imprisonment, but the two are unable to have a meaningful conversation, highlighting the rift between them.

Gu Yun feels the crushing weight of his responsibilities and physical exhaustion after the emergency meeting at the palace.

Chang Geng waits for Gu Yun outside the great hall, showing concern for his well-being.

Gu Yun collapses onto his couch, feverish and exhausted, while Chang Geng helps take care of him.

Chang Geng prepares medicine and stays by Gu Yun’s side, providing comfort and allowing him to rest.

Gu Yun falls into a deep sleep, haunted by memories of the past and the current dire situation.

He recalls a moment from his childhood when his father spoke about the honor of being a soldier and becoming a sacrifice for the nation.

Gu Yun wakes up briefly, delirious, and Chang Geng takes care of him, bringing him soup.

The next morning, Gu Yun's fever breaks, and he begins to recover.

Gu Yun and Chang Geng discuss the dire state of the nation and the ongoing conflicts at all four borders.

Chang Geng reveals he forged Gu Yun’s handwriting to order the Black Iron Battalion to retreat to Jiayu Pass, focusing on preserving the army rather than sacrificing them.

Gu Yun admits the dire situation, explaining the lack of violet gold and resources, but emphasizes the importance of maintaining the morale and courage of the soldiers.

Chang Geng offers to take responsibility for managing resources, money, and coordinating efforts to support the war while Gu Yun focuses on the military strategy.

Gu Yun is moved by Chang Geng’s commitment, understanding the unspoken promise of loyalty and shared fate between them.

Huo Dan interrupts to announce the arrival of Master Fenghan and General Tan with a new military dispatch from the East Sea.

The report reveals that the Jiangnan navy has been routed, and the Westerners possess a new, formidable dragon warship and a giant sea monster, indicating that they will reach Dagu Harbor in a matter of days.

Chang Geng reviews the military report, confirming the Jiangnan Navy's disarray after Commander Zhao Youfang's fall, leading to panic and scattered forces.

Gu Yun recalls the weakness of Great Liang’s navy, citing Prince Wei’s failed rebellion as proof of their inadequacy.

Chang Geng describes the Westerners' “sea monster,” a massive, octopus-like warship with iron tentacles and smaller dragon warships attached, burning enormous amounts of violet gold.

Gu Yun plans the defense of the capital, asking about available forces: Northern Camp has 20,000 men and limited war chariots, while the Imperial Guard has only 6,000 mostly inexperienced soldiers.

The Black Iron Tiger Tally, symbolizing Gu Yun's authority, is returned to him, signaling full mobilization against the Western threat.

Chang Geng reveals his use of wooden birds for a secret communications network, attempting to get messages through the siege to other garrisons, bypassing normal military channels.

Gu Yun and Tan Hongfei head to the Northern Camp, while Chang Geng secures armor and supplies from the Lingshu Institute.

A violent storm erupts as they move to bolster defenses, with Gu Yun sensing impending disaster.

At Dagu Harbor, an old soldier spots the Westerners' massive sea monster through a field scope, signaling an enemy attack.

The Beihai Army and Navy, led by Lian Wei, desperately attempt to hold the harbor using dragon warships chained together and parhelion bows with firebrand arrows.

Despite their efforts, the Westerners' forces overwhelm Dagu Harbor, destroying ships and watchtowers.

Lian Wei, previously part of the Black Iron Battalion, takes command to launch a counterattack with parhelion arrows, tearing through enemy warships.

The capital receives word of Dagu Harbor’s attack in the middle of the night, shocking Han Qi and confirming the dire situation.

Gu Yun is informed that Lian Wei, once his deputy, leads the Beihai Army and Navy.

Han Qi pledges to defend the capital with the Imperial Guard to the last man.

Chang Geng arrives with news that the Lingshu Institute has completed repairs on a significant number of heavy and hawk armor, as well as other equipment, readying for immediate use.

Tan Hongfei is thrilled to wear black-iron armor again, ready to fight with Gu Yun on the vanguard.

Gu Yun plans the battle strategy with parhelion bows and war chariots leading, followed by light cavalry and Black Hawks, with heavy armor bringing up the rear.

Chang Geng insists on accompanying Gu Yun, believing there's no difference between waiting in the palace and joining the frontline if the city falls.

Gu Yun reluctantly agrees, and the army marches out with no fanfare, preparing to meet the Western forces outside the capital.

The Western navy attacks Dagu Harbor, where Lian Wei and the Beihai Navy fiercely defend with their dragon warships and corvettes.

Despite a valiant defense and heavy losses on both sides, Dagu Harbor falls, but the Western forces are pushed back by Gu Yun’s hastily assembled Black Iron Battalion.

The Westerners retreat, and Gu Yun's forces regroup to prepare for the next attack.

Gu Yun receives news of the victory, while Chang Geng reports the casualties: thirteen war chariots lost, five hundred light cavalrymen killed, and twelve armored hawks downed.

Li Feng sends a herald to the battlefield, rewarding the Northern Camp with food and drink, but Gu Yun cautions that reinforcements are still needed.

The Northern Camp prepares a tactical withdrawal as the Westerners regroup. Gu Yun hints at the possibility of a hidden cache of violet gold in the Sunlight Palace, built by the Yuanhe Emperor.

The Western forces launch another attack on Dagu Harbor, initially thinking they've captured Great Liang's soldiers but discover they are iron puppets rigged with explosives.

Gu Yun had evacuated civilians and left scorched earth behind, leaving the Westerners with an empty city after their victory.

The Western forces are left furious, having expended effort on capturing empty territory.

The Western army searches a deserted city, encountering eerie traps and deathly pale masks rigged to explode, unsettling the soldiers and making Mister Ja regret advancing too quickly.

After failing to find any ambush or enemy soldiers in the city, Mister Ja orders the city to be razed, only to find it empty.

Meanwhile, Gu Yun uses a field scope to watch the Western scout hawks flying towards the capital, predicting they will fall into the aerial exclusion field, an ancient Lingshu Institute defense mechanism.

Gu Yun plans a night ambush on the Western army, using Black Hawks, light cavalry, and war chariots to strike and retreat quickly without engaging in prolonged combat.

Chang Geng accompanies Gu Yun, and they exchange lighthearted banter before preparing for the ambush.

The ambush is set off after nightfall; the Black Hawks attack from the air, light cavalry charge from the ground, and war chariots batter the enemy before retreating.

Mister Ja is caught off guard by the ambush and loses control of his troops, witnessing the ferocity of Gu Yun's forces.

During the chaos, Chang Geng makes an impressive shot at Mister Ja, but a Western heavy armor infantryman sacrifices himself to protect Mister Ja.

Gu Yun catches Chang Geng during the ambush, scolding him for risking his life and leading the troops to a strategic withdrawal.

The Black Iron Battalion continues to harass the Western army, launching successful ambushes over several days and leading the enemy on a chase.

On the seventeenth day of the fourth month, the Western army requests reinforcements due to Gu Yun's persistent attacks.

On the twenty-third, the reinforcements arrive, forcing Gu Yun to withdraw his forces, but the Westerners are led into the aerial exclusion field, losing many armored hawks.

The pope recovers enough to take command in person on the twenty-sixth, leading the Western forces to capture Wuqing by the twenty-ninth.

By the third day of the fifth month, Gu Yun is forced to retreat to the capital as Daxing Prefecture falls under relentless Western cannon fire.

With the city gates barred and reinforcements still absent, the Western army finally sends a peace envoy to the capital.

A Western envoy arrives in the capital with an offer of peace, sparking a heated debate during the morning court session.

Chang Geng, leaving the court session, learns from Master Fenghan about concerns regarding dwindling stockpiles of iron arrows in the aerial defense field and the fear of its impending failure.

Master Fenghan informs Chang Geng that Captain Han Qi is missing from court and rumors suggest the Emperor is planning to move the capital.

Chang Geng brushes off the rumors, believing the situation is not yet desperate, and notices Huo Dan approaching with urgency.

Huo Dan informs Chang Geng that Gu Yun was wounded by a Western arrow during the previous night's battle.

Chang Geng rushes to Gu Yun's side, finding him severely wounded, and takes over the medics' work to tend to Gu Yun's injuries himself.

Gu Yun learns from Chang Geng about the Western envoy's demands, which include conceding territory beyond Jiayu Pass, giving up the thirty-six commanderies along the northern border, moving the capital to the old eastern capital, and making Princess Hening a hostage.

The Westerners also demand the retreat of Shen Yi's Southern Border Army from the islands in the South Sea and the establishment of a "Far Eastern District" under Western control.

Li Feng visits the injured Gu Yun, revealing to Chang Geng that he had ordered Han Qi to retrieve violet gold from a secret warehouse in the Sunlight Palace through a hidden passage.

The secret passage contained eighty thousand kilograms of violet gold, which was Li Feng’s secret stockpile.

Li Feng implies that if the city falls, he will abdicate in Chang Geng’s favor and have him establish a new capital in Luoyang, leaving Chang Geng as the emperor.

Li Feng and Chang Geng share a tense conversation about Gu Yun, and Li Feng's reflections on their past relationship reveal his inability to fully understand Chang Geng.

Monk Liao Ran informs Chang Geng that despite thorough investigations, he found no traitor among Li Feng’s servants or his close confidantes.

A sudden explosion shakes the capital; Chang Geng and Gu Yun quickly realize it came from the west, where the Sunlight Palace is located.

The Westerners had ambushed Han Qi at the Sunlight Palace while he was transporting violet gold, forcing him to ignite the entire stockpile and destroy the secret passage.

The massive explosion incinerates the western outskirts of the capital, obliterating the Sunlight Palace and killing both the imperial guards and some of the Western forces.

With the loss of the violet gold and the Sunlight Palace, the Western army launches a fierce attack on the capital, leading to a brutal clash as both sides are pushed to their limits.

The Far Westerners launch a final assault on the capital, using their armored hawks to challenge the city’s aerial defenses, now weakened after the explosion in the west.

Chang Geng realizes there is a traitor who provided information about the Sunlight Palace to the Westerners and suspects the involvement of the National Temple, specifically its location in the west of the city.

Liao Ran, horrified at the implication, hesitates but ultimately agrees to investigate with Chang Geng.

Chang Geng returns to the city gates, asking Gu Yun for a squadron of guards to confront the traitor within the city.

Gu Yun tries to convince Chang Geng to leave the capital and save himself, implying that the city’s fall is imminent.

Chang Geng, realizing the gravity of the situation, kisses Gu Yun passionately, expressing his feelings and determination to stay and fight.

Gu Yun reluctantly orders Tan Hongfei to assemble a squadron of light-pelt cavalry to escort Chang Geng in his mission.

The Western army mounts a brutal assault on the city walls, and the Black Hawks clash with the Western hawks in a desperate struggle.

Kite's Flight Pavilion, a key part of the city's defenses, collapses after being hit by a Western cannon blast, signaling the end of the capital’s aerial defense.

Within the palace, chaos erupts as Zhu Xiaojiao tries to convince Li Feng to flee the city; Li Feng refuses and demands the Shangfang Sword.

Zhu Xiaojiao’s godson, a hidden assassin, attempts to kill Li Feng but Zhu Xiaojiao sacrifices himself, taking the blow.

Liao Chi, the abbot of the National Temple, reveals himself as the traitor, holding Li Feng hostage and revealing a grudge against the imperial family that stems from Emperor Wu’s reign.

Liao Chi forces Li Feng onto a red-headed kite, intending to fly him out of the city and spread rumors that the emperor is fleeing, but Chang Geng intervenes.

Chang Geng, aided by Tan Hongfei, shoots and kills Liao Chi, while the imperial guards and light-pelt cavalry battle the Dongying warrior monks supporting Liao Chi.

Chang Geng frees Li Feng and leads a procession of officials and refugees toward the city gates as the Western forces break through the city’s defenses.

With the aerial defense field and firebrand arrows depleted, Gu Yun leads the remaining Black Iron heavy-armor infantry to make a final stand outside the city gates.

Gu Yun and the heavy-armor soldiers march out of the city, prepared for a last battle as the gates close behind them.

The heavy armor formation moves out, leading a final assault against the Western forces, charging through cannon fire and enemy ranks.

Despite severe casualties, the heavy armor soldiers continue their advance; even when their operators die, the mechanical gears keep turning, driving the suits forward.

Li Feng, aboard a red-headed kite, orders Tan Hongfei to deliver a verbal edict to Chang Geng, abdicating the throne in his favor and commanding him to flee the city.

Chang Geng, commanding from the city wall, refuses the emperor’s abdication and orders the troops to continue fighting until the city walls crumble.

The heavy armor soldiers break through the enemy formation, forcing the Western army to use suicide tactics with their armored hawks, causing massive destruction to the city walls.

The Western hawks launch a desperate attack, causing significant damage, including striking the red-headed kite with Li Feng on board.

Tan Hongfei sacrifices himself by intercepting a cannon blast aimed at the red-headed kite, destroying both the cannon and himself in a fiery explosion.

Chang Geng uses the last of their ammunition, including windslashers and violet gold, to continue defending the city.

The city wall collapses, and Chang Geng is trapped under rubble, surviving with injuries. He tries to get back into the fight despite his injuries and the dire situation.

A messenger bird arrives with news that reinforcements have finally come, but Chang Geng is consumed with fear over Gu Yun’s fate.

Chang Geng is knocked out by Ge Chen to prevent him from further harming himself while searching for Gu Yun.

Reinforcements arrive, led by Shen Yi and old General Zhong, finally turning the tide against the Western army and forcing them to retreat.

Gu Yun is found alive but severely injured under a Western war chariot and is brought back to the city for medical treatment.

Gu Yun hovers between life and death for three days until Chen Qingxu arrives and stabilizes his condition.

Gu Yun awakens and is reassured by Chang Geng that the capital stands and that reinforcements have arrived, although he is still gravely injured and weak.

Chang Geng, who has suffered multiple wu’ergu attacks, sits by Gu Yun’s side, covered in acupuncture needles to suppress the poison, expressing his emotional turmoil silently.

Chang Geng reflects on his impulsive actions with Gu Yun during the chaos of the siege, realizing that their relationship could never return to what it was before. He knows that Gu Yun had made his stance clear in the past and wouldn't pursue the matter further under normal circumstances.

Gu Yun feels guilty about the situation, recognizing that he might have given tacit permission to Chang Geng's actions. He is conflicted, unable to simply view Chang Geng as a junior anymore but also struggling with the shift in their relationship.

In his weakened state, Gu Yun is helpless as Chang Geng gently kisses him. This intimate moment, though brief, leaves Gu Yun emotionally tangled, torn between tenderness and frustration.

Chang Geng, emotionally overwhelmed, finds himself unable to express his fears and concerns fully. Despite the awkwardness, he cares for Gu Yun tenderly before leaving the room.

Outside, Chang Geng encounters Chen Qingxu, who hesitates to ask him about his feelings for Gu Yun. Chang Geng openly admits his improper intentions towards Gu Yun, leaving Chen Qingxu stunned but agreeing to keep it a secret.

Gu Yun learns from Shen Yi about the chaos that unfolded during the siege. Shen Yi explains that the Southern Border Army was delayed due to a series of setbacks, including the destruction of the Southwest Supply Depot and interference from a rebel army of refugees.

The Western forces have temporarily retreated to the East Sea, using the islands of Dongying as their base, indicating that the conflict is far from over.

Gu Yun learns that Tan Hongfei sacrificed himself during the battle, leaving Gu Yun grief-stricken.

Shen Yi informs Gu Yun that Li Feng has promoted Chang Geng to Prince Yan, signifying his growing role in the empire.

Chang Geng has been working tirelessly, even covered in acupuncture needles to suppress his wu'ergu attacks, demonstrating his commitment and devotion to the nation and to Gu Yun.

Shen Yi hints at the change in Gu Yun and Chang Geng's relationship, realizing something significant has happened between them. This causes an awkward yet revealing encounter when Shen Yi bumps into Chang Geng on his way out.

Gu Yun sits in his room, mourning Tan Hongfei's death when Chang Geng arrives and checks Gu Yun’s pulse.

Chang Geng notices Gu Yun's pallor and asks to see his injuries, but Gu Yun deflects, showing concern for Chang Geng instead.

Chang Geng tends to Gu Yun, emphasizing their change in relationship by tenderly holding his hand and tending to him.

Gu Yun is flustered and conflicted about Chang Geng’s advances and his own changing feelings but can’t bring himself to refuse him.

Chang Geng changes Gu Yun’s bandages and suggests they go outside to enjoy the sun, carrying Gu Yun when he initially refuses.

Shen Yi encounters them and is startled by the sight, quickly making an excuse to leave after realizing the shift in their relationship.

Outside, Chang Geng offers Gu Yun a jade flute carved like a miniature windslasher as a replacement for his old bamboo one, as a symbol of his care.

Gu Yun confides his feelings about his complicated relationship with the Black Iron Battalion and the responsibilities he inherited from his father, noting that he never had a windslasher engraved with his name.

Chang Geng updates Gu Yun on the dire financial state of the capital, explaining that they may soon lack the resources to continue the war and asking for advice.

Gu Yun suggests negotiating a ceasefire with the Westerners, pointing out that the Western army might also be struggling and may not be able to hold out much longer.

Ten days later, the Western army shifts its focus to Jiangnan, taking Lin'an city and causing widespread panic among the nobility.

Li Feng appoints old General Zhong Chan to lead the southern defense with Yao Zhen, while Gu Yun and Shen Yi prepare to head northwest.

Chang Geng stays behind in the capital, taking on the responsibility of managing the court and defenses, effectively starting his political career.

Gu Yun departs the capital for the northwest front, despite his severe injuries being barely healed, with his body held together by specially made steel panels from the Lingshu Institute.

Li Feng and court officials see off the soldiers, and Chang Geng watches from a watchtower, gazing after Gu Yun’s departure.

Shen Yi notices Chang Geng’s presence and comments on Gu Yun's situation, hinting at the complicated relationship between Gu Yun and Chang Geng.

Gu Yun dismisses Shen Yi's remarks about his feelings for Chang Geng, stating that he would take things a day at a time, given the country's dire situation.

On their journey, Gu Yun and his army face attacks from vagrants organized into bandits. Shen Yi notes these groups are skilled in harassment and hit-and-run tactics.

Gu Yun learns about the leader of these bandits, an old scarred man called Fire Dragon, and suggests drafting a memorial to stay and deal with this internal unrest before moving on to the northwest.

In the capital, Jiang Chong wakes Chang Geng from a nap to discuss his proposal for issuing war beacon tickets to raise funds for the war effort, noting resistance from other officials.

Chang Geng plans to address the officials’ concerns in court and revises the proposal, emphasizing its necessity due to the depleted national treasury.

Jiang Chong reports that Gu Yun has sent a memorial detailing his current situation, stating they encountered bandits and plan to eliminate them before continuing their journey.

Chang Geng asks Jiang Chong to collect and mark down who opposed the war beacon tickets and when they did so, implying he’s keeping track of potential opposition within the court.

After Jiang Chong leaves, Chang Geng changes the room's incense to Miss Chen's pacifying fragrance, indicating he's struggling with the wu’ergu's effects due to recent stress and emotional upheaval.

Cai Bin struggles with a bandit mob causing havoc in the Central Plains. His forces are reduced, and he doesn't take risks, making it difficult to deal with the bandits.

Gu Yun spends several days studying the bandits' patterns and the terrain before setting a trap for them.

Cai Bin pretends to make a full attack on the bandits, which is unusual for his forces, leading the bandits into a trap set by Gu Yun.

Gu Yun uses heavy armor and cannons to ambush the bandits, who are defeated and surrounded on both sides by Gu Yun’s and Cai Bin's troops.

The bandit leader, known as Fire Dragon, is captured alive. Gu Yun instructs Shen Yi to interrogate him for information about his accomplices and their base.

Gu Yun discovers a scimitar on the bandit leader. It's identified as a weapon from the eighteen tribes, with symbols associated with the goddess of the tribes and the "heart of the earth," indicating a connection to the shamaness, Huge’er (Xiu-niang).

Fire Dragon claims the scimitar belonged to his enemy, a mysterious woman who had destroyed his bandit camp many years ago.

He tells a story about a beautiful but mentally unstable woman they captured around twenty years ago, who had an infant and was pregnant with another child. The woman tortured her child, and one of the infants mysteriously disappeared without a trace.

The woman, who was implied to be Huge’er, poisoned the bandits and burned down their stronghold, carrying one child in a basket on her back.

Gu Yun realizes this story might be about Chang Geng's mother and is horrified by the implication of the abuse Chang Geng suffered.

Gu Yun orders Fire Dragon to be silenced permanently and contemplates the possibility that Huge’er might have had another child and what that might mean for Chang Geng’s origins.

Shen Yi suggests the possibility that Chang Geng might not be the noble consort's son, and the father of Huge’er’s child might be someone else, hinting at Great Master Liao Chi’s involvement.

Gu Yun decides they will never speak of this again and leaves with a brooding demeanor.

Gu Yun seeks out Chen Qingxu and inquires about the shamanic techniques of the barbarians that might involve infants.

Chen Qingxu responds with shock and asks if Gu Yun has heard of Wu’ergu, hinting at a connection to Chang Geng's condition.

Chen Qingxu explains the legend of Wu’ergu, a god worshipped by the eighteen tribes, described as having four legs, four arms, two heads, and two hearts.

Wu’ergu is said to swallow his brother at birth, doubling his powers, and his arrival is associated with calamity and famine.

There is an ancient shamanic ritual among the tribes where twin brothers are sealed together shortly after birth. One twin dies, and the other is fed a refined tincture made from the dead sibling’s body, supposedly gaining the powers of Wu’ergu.

Gu Yun learns that these individuals, called wu’ergu, often display extraordinary strength or intelligence but are prone to insanity, experiencing nightmares, paranoia, and hallucinations.

Chen Qingxu confirms that Chang Geng is afflicted with wu’ergu, having endured the condition with rare attacks due to his strong will, but his condition has worsened recently.

Gu Yun is devastated upon realizing the truth about Chang Geng’s affliction and how it might be related to his recent behavior.

Chang Geng meets with Master Zhang Fenghan, a prominent figure in the Lingshu Institute, discussing national matters and subtly arranging for his childhood friend Ge Chen to be taken under Fenghan’s care.

Zhang Fenghan appreciates Chang Geng’s genuine concern for the nation and notes his leadership qualities.

Chang Geng leaves the scene, and a secret meeting of influential figures, including Zhang Fenghan, Du Wanquan (the richest man in Jiangnan), and Great Master Liao Ran, takes place in a tea shop.

They gather pieces of the Linyuan tablet, an ancient symbol of authority and decision-making power, to select a candidate for leadership in the country's time of crisis.

Liao Ran proposes Prince Yan (Chang Geng) as a candidate, emphasizing his ability to lead, his handling of internal and external threats, and his refusal of the throne.

Zhang Fenghan agrees with Liao Ran’s assessment of Prince Yan's capabilities and character.

Du Wanquan remains cautious and suggests considering the opinions of others who know Prince Yan well.

Zhong Chan, an influential figure and mentor to Chang Geng, sends a message revealing concerns about Chang Geng's troubled past and his affliction with wu’ergu, advising caution in making him the leader.

Zhang Fenghan reads a note from Zhong Chan expressing concern about Prince Yan's affliction with the wu’ergu, a northern barbarian poison that damages the mind.

Liao Ran explains that Prince Yan was exposed to wu’ergu as a child, abused by a northern shamaness in Yanhui Town.

Zhang Fenghan argues in favor of Prince Yan, emphasizing his loyalty and selflessness in stabilizing the nation, despite the poison.

Du Wanquan, the richest man in Jiangnan, remains cautious, suggesting they wait for Chen Qingxu's input before making a final decision on giving Prince Yan the Linyuan tablet.

A wooden bird carrying Chen Qingxu’s message arrives. It has a secure mechanism requiring a special sequence to unlock, which Du Wanquan successfully opens.

Zhang Fenghan speaks passionately about the nation’s dire state and the need to entrust the Linyuan tablet to someone capable like Prince Yan.

Liao Ran reminds the others that without the tablet's authority, members can only provide minor support. With the tablet, they must offer all resources in service to the nation.

The tablet's pieces are joined, and Chen Qingxu's letter reveals her vote in favor of Prince Yan. She mentions her inability to cure the wu’ergu but expresses willingness to support him.

Chang Geng had predicted the Linyuan Pavilion's members' votes, understanding who might oppose him.

Ge Chen helps Chang Geng intercept Chen Qingxu’s original message, which had advised caution due to the wu’ergu.

Chang Geng justifies his interference with the letter to Ge Chen, explaining that he needs the Linyuan Pavilion's support to secure funds and supplies for the war effort.

Chang Geng plans to manage until the crisis is over, hoping to retire peacefully afterward.

Prince Yan resigns from the Grand Council, citing illness, which causes chaos in the court and exposes major corruption within the government.

The absence of Prince Yan forces the court to reconsider his war beacon ticket proposal, which gains support and quickly sells out thanks to civilian merchants like Du Wanquan.

The influx of funds strengthens the national treasury, quelling the issue and allowing the country to stabilize financially.

At the end of the year, Gu Yun returns to Jiayu Pass to prepare for battle, awaiting supplies from the imperial court.

Prince Yan unexpectedly arrives at Jiayu Pass to lead the convoy of provisions and armaments, surprising Gu Yun.

Gu Yun rushes back to the encampment upon hearing of Chang Geng's arrival, but upon reaching the camp, he acts calm and collected to avoid embarrassment.

The officers present the decree from the emperor, but Chang Geng stops Gu Yun from kneeling, hinting at their close relationship by calling him "Imperial Uncle."

Gu Yun struggles with his emotions as he looks at Chang Geng, recalling everything he learned about Chang Geng's past and his struggles with wu’ergu.

Gu Yun pulls Chang Geng into an embrace, feeling both sorrow and affection, while Chang Geng is caught off guard by this sudden show of care.

They walk out of the commander's tent together, and Gu Yun is impressed by the sight of the convoy with supplies from the capital.

Chang Geng informs Gu Yun about the repeal of the Token of Mastery Law and the efforts to strengthen the country's defenses and armaments.

Gu Yun, although proud, warns Chang Geng not to overwork himself and reassures him that he still has Gu Yun to rely on.

The two share a quiet, intimate moment where Gu Yun holds Chang Geng’s hand under the cover of Chang Geng's court robes.

Gu Yun hosts a simple welcome dinner for Chang Geng, where the officers drink and chat, but the party disperses early due to the ongoing war.

Gu Yun offers to play a song for Chang Geng on his jade flute, despite being notoriously bad at it. Chang Geng listens, finding it amusing and surreal.

After Gu Yun finishes playing, he teasingly offers to have Chang Geng sleep in his tent, which flusters Chang Geng.

Chang Geng struggles with his feelings and embarrassment but ultimately agrees to stay with Gu Yun, indicating that he wants to check on Gu Yun’s injury.

Chang Geng examines Gu Yun's back and finds issues with his lumbar and cervical vertebrae due to wearing the light pelt armor for extended periods.

Gu Yun discusses his battle strategy, planning to make a preemptive strike against the allied armies of the Western Regions on New Year's Eve.

Gu Yun laughs when Chang Geng's massage tickles him, showing a rare moment of vulnerability.

Chang Geng and Gu Yun share a close moment, with Gu Yun teasingly pulling Chang Geng onto the bed and discussing his plans to retire after the war.

Chang Geng expresses concern over Gu Yun's intention to retire and not seeing many generals successfully laying down their arms.

Gu Yun and Chang Geng share a kiss, this time not out of desperation but with a sense of belonging and connection.

Gu Yun reassures Chang Geng about their future together and tells him to rest while he gets up early to attend to military matters.

Chang Geng sleeps fitfully, gripping onto Gu Yun's robe due to nightmares caused by wu'ergu, highlighting his inner struggles.

Gu Yun uses pacifying fragrance to soothe Chang Geng's sleep before heading out to handle military tasks.

On New Year's Eve, the Black Iron Battalion prepares a covert operation against the allied armies of the Western Regions.

Scouts from the Western Regions mistakenly believe the Black Iron Battalion is celebrating the New Year and not planning an attack.

The Black Iron Battalion launches a surprise raid, splitting into three groups to strike the enemy, while lanterns on the fortress walls create the illusion of a peaceful celebration.

Chang Geng reaches a field hospital within Jiayu Pass and meets Chen Qingxu, who provides him with a wooden bird.

Despite warnings from his guards, Chang Geng insists on visiting the wounded soldiers, showing concern and solidarity.

Chang Geng waits for a report of victory from Gu Yun to bring back to the capital and plans the next steps in dealing with the Western Regions.

Chen Qingxu notes that despite his nonstop traveling and the progression of wu’ergu, Chang Geng seems in good health and at peace, partly due to his deepening relationship with Gu Yun.

Chang Geng discusses his future plans with Chen Qingxu, indicating that if Gu Yun retires due to his health, he will leave with him, reassuring Chen Qingxu about his commitment.

The Black Iron Battalion launches a surprise attack on the allied armies of the Western Regions on New Year’s Eve, catching them off guard and scattering them in disarray.

The allied forces suffer a massive defeat due to internal discord and Gu Yun's strategic tactics, including the release of letters revealing secret attempts at surrender from various nations.

The Black Iron Battalion claims its first victory since losing half the country, capturing the leader of the sixteen-nation coalition, the king of Qiuci.

The victory brings hope to Great Liang, with soldiers and citizens, including those in the field hospital, expressing joy and relief.

On the fourth day of the new year, the allied forces retreat further, and Loulan, seeking revenge for their previous occupation, ambushes and defeats them again.

The Black Iron Battalion retakes control of twenty-seven frontier passes along the Silk Road, capturing the remaining foreign soldiers.

The allied armies offer a prisoner exchange, but Gu Yun uses the opportunity to lure them into a trap and further decimate their forces, demonstrating his ruthless cunning.

Gu Yun meets Bai Chu, a scholar who organized the captives and leaked information to Loulan, leading to the ambush on the Western Regions' allied armies.

During the exchange, Bai Chu reveals himself to be an enemy plant, exploding and causing severe injuries to Gu Yun despite his guards' attempts to protect him.

Shen Yi, following orders, holds his position despite hearing the explosion that injured Gu Yun.

A Black Hawk scout reports that the Western Regions' armies have regrouped and are advancing with war chariots toward the Black Iron Battalion's encampment.

Gu Yun, injured by a suicide bomber disguised as Bai Chu, orders Shen Yi to execute the king of Qiuci and prepare the Black Iron Battalion for an all-out battle.

Gu Yun appoints Shen Yi as the acting commander in chief and instructs him to suppress any news of the explosion.

The Black Iron Battalion faces the enemy head-on, executing the king of Qiuci publicly and sending his head rolling before the enemy forces.

The allied armies of the Western Regions are demoralized and thrown into disarray upon seeing their king's execution.

The Black Iron Battalion launches a fierce attack, slaughtering nearly ten thousand enemy soldiers and chasing them back to their own borders.

Gu Yun barely survives the explosion, suffers severe injuries, and has to be nursed back to consciousness by Shen Yi and Chen Qingxu.

Chen Qingxu urges Gu Yun to take time to convalesce, warning that his injuries and repeated use of medication are taking a toll on his body.

Gu Yun reluctantly agrees to convalesce once the current crisis is over, understanding the severity of his condition.

Chang Geng receives a personal letter from Gu Yun, filled with humorous anecdotes and a pressed apricot blossom, indicating Gu Yun's affection and hope for the future.

Chang Geng contemplates the next steps for the nation’s recovery, realizing that bold reforms will make him enemies among the noble class.

Despite the fleeting sense of victory, Chang Geng prepares for the arduous journey of power struggles and reform, knowing he cannot simply walk away from the responsibilities he has taken on.

The kingdoms of the Western Regions sue for peace, and the Grand Council drafts a response for the Marquis of Anding, instructing him to ensure the rebels can't rise again and to secure violet gold.

Chang Geng reports to Li Feng about the successful implementation of the war beacon tickets and suggests sweetening the deal for merchants to encourage further support.

Li Feng, suspicious of Chang Geng’s growing influence and abilities, subtly tests him by asking for a recommendation for the vacant Minister of Personnel position.

Chang Geng evades the question, suggesting a public evaluation of candidates based on merit, including their support for the war beacon tickets.

Li Feng's suspicions are somewhat eased by Chang Geng's seemingly single-minded focus on war funding.

Li Feng proposes a marriage between Chang Geng and Grand Secretary Fang’s granddaughter, testing Chang Geng's reaction to see if he will form an alliance with a powerful noble family.

Chang Geng reacts strongly, revealing old scars from his abusive childhood to avoid the arranged marriage and assert his inability to marry, claiming a "strange temperament."

Li Feng is left speechless but ultimately dismisses Chang Geng, who withdraws to the Marquis Estate, reflecting on the harsh path he has chosen.

Li Feng rejects Chang Geng's initial proposal to confer titles on those who buy war beacon tickets but agrees to establish trade routes protected by the military as a reward.

A month later, a new decree links the purchase of war beacon tickets with eligibility for civil servant examinations, causing an uproar and accusations of promoting corruption.

The news reaches the Black Iron Battalion, and Shen Yi confronts Gu Yun, concerned about Chang Geng's controversial reforms and their long-term implications.

Gu Yun reflects on the current situation and acknowledges that they cannot continue fighting as they have been, hinting at a need for strategic restraint and planning for the future.

The kingdoms of the Western Regions submit a joint letter of surrender, and Shen Yi is sent to negotiate on behalf of Great Liang, delivering harsh terms including surrendering gold, allowing military bases, and handing over seventy percent of violet gold.

Gu Yun leads a night raid against the Western Regions' encampment after they resist the terms, forcing them to comply with Great Liang's demands and sign the Treaty of Loulan.

By the end of the fifth month, Gu Yun and Shen Yi secretly transport the violet gold back to the capital.

The new government reforms in the capital, particularly the war beacon tickets, surprisingly do not cause a major uproar; even rich noble families and scholars remain mostly silent.

Chang Geng submits a detailed memorial outlining the long-term plans for the war beacon tickets to Emperor Li Feng, promising a system where tickets replace gold and silver, appealing to the emperor’s desire for centralized control of wealth.

Behind the scenes, wealthy merchants led by Du Wanquan hold secret meetings with officials who rose through the imperial examination, forming an alliance to support the war beacon tickets and influence future policy.

Du Wanquan assists Chang Geng in building connections with scholars and merchants, helping to secure support for the new economic system.

Chang Geng, feeling exhausted and suffering from insomnia, has a nightmare where Gu Yun accuses him of betrayal, implying Chang Geng has taken over the nation and that Gu Yun must leave to plead forgiveness beneath the Nine Springs.

Chang Geng wakes up in distress, only to find the real Gu Yun in the room, having returned two days ahead of schedule.

Gu Yun tries to calm Chang Geng with lighthearted remarks, but Chang Geng reacts with intense fear due to the vividness of his nightmare, causing a moment of intense emotional distress.

Chang Geng suffers a severe wu’ergu attack, causing him to lose control and lash out violently. His strength becomes extraordinary, and his eyes turn blood-red, resembling a mythical wicked god.

Gu Yun tries to calm him down, struggling to restrain Chang Geng without hurting him. Chang Geng becomes confused and fearful, mistaking Gu Yun's intentions and thinking he’s leaving him.

Chang Geng’s attack is triggered by a nightmare where he believes Gu Yun is abandoning him and blaming him for betraying the nation and causing destruction.

During the struggle, Chang Geng bites Gu Yun's arm deeply, drawing blood. Despite the pain, Gu Yun remains calm and comforts Chang Geng.

Gu Yun helps Chang Geng regain his senses and holds him for an hour until he calms down. They discuss the wu’ergu and its origins, revealing more about the barbarian curse and how it turns people into powerful but uncontrollable individuals.

Chang Geng expresses his fear of being abandoned by Gu Yun due to the wu’ergu. Gu Yun reassures him by showing his love and willingness to stand by him.

Gu Yun suggests that Chang Geng take a break from his work at the Grand Council and retreat temporarily for his well-being, but Chang Geng insists he cannot retreat now, as the reforms are in motion and need to be seen through.

Chang Geng explains the wu’ergu curse’s prediction that he would become filled with hatred and violence, but defies this prophecy, stating that Gu Yun's love and support help him resist becoming what the curse foretold.

Gu Yun and Chang Geng reaffirm their commitment to each other, with Chang Geng asking if Gu Yun trusts him and expressing his willingness to face any hardship for his sake.

Chang Geng struggles with the burden of his intense feelings for Gu Yun, finding it difficult to let go despite the emotional weight.

He reflects on Great Master Liao Ran's advice about the suffering caused by holding on to things, acknowledging that Gu Yun alone weighs heavily on his heart.

Chang Geng confesses his desire for a peaceful, thriving nation and his vision for the future, where everyone can live with dignity and security.

Gu Yun, though initially reluctant to encourage Chang Geng's seemingly impossible ambitions, finds himself moved by his passion and agrees to support him.

Their conversation takes an intimate turn, leading to a more physical expression of their relationship. Gu Yun is initially thrown off by Chang Geng calling him "Yifu" in bed, but eventually, the situation leads to a deepening of their bond.

The next day, Chang Geng stays away from court, claiming illness. Meanwhile, Gu Yun, exhausted from his travels and the previous night's events, sleeps in.

After waking up, Gu Yun and Chang Geng have a lighthearted moment reminiscing about Gu Yun's mischievous childhood, including a prank that nearly got his tutor killed and led to him being taken to the Black Iron Battalion's encampment on the northern border.

The chapter explores the growth and transformation of their relationship, blending moments of vulnerability, passion, and humor.

Gu Yun continues sharing his past, recounting the harsh conditions he faced on the northern border and how it changed him from a mischievous child into a disciplined soldier.

Chang Geng responds with affection, expressing a desire to have protected and raised Gu Yun in luxury if they had met earlier.

Gu Yun explains that the strict discipline he received was necessary for him to become the successor of the Black Iron Battalion, despite the heavy personal cost.

Chang Geng subtly probes Gu Yun about his feelings towards the late emperor, suspecting underlying resentment. Gu Yun deflects the question and changes the subject, sensing Chang Geng's erratic emotions.

Gu Yun notices a change in Chang Geng's behavior, oscillating between intense affection and suspicion, hinting at an unstable mental state exacerbated by the wu'ergu.

Gu Yun asks for tea instead of wine, raising Chang Geng's suspicions. Gu Yun realizes that he might have accidentally hinted at his health issues, so he tries to divert the conversation by casually asking for alcohol.

Chang Geng feeds Gu Yun a sweet treat in an unusually intimate manner, which makes Gu Yun uncomfortable but reveals Chang Geng's increasingly possessive behavior.

Someone from the Lingshu Institute arrives to see Chang Geng, interrupting the moment. Gu Yun encourages Chang Geng to attend to his duties, and Chang Geng reluctantly complies.

Chang Geng admits to feeling as if the day's events were a dream, expressing a wish that he never had to wake up from it. Gu Yun is left with a mix of concern and frustration over Chang Geng's emotional state.

Gu Yun suspects that Chang Geng’s behavior might be influenced by the effects of wu’ergu, as Chang Geng’s demeanor fluctuates between intense desire and disoriented confusion.

Great Liang sees signs of recovery with the quelling of rebellions and new military advancements. The Black Iron Battalion escorts tribute of violet gold to the capital, and the Lingshu Institute makes breakthroughs with a new, lighter iron bow.

Despite temporary peace, the imperial court is faced with the issue of resettling refugees, sparking heated debates among ministers. Chang Geng remains silent as various officials argue, leading to a deadlock.

Thirteen prominent merchants, led by Du Wanquan, propose establishing privately operated factories to provide work for refugees. They request special concessions from the court, including the right to buy violet gold.

The proposal stirs conflict between nobles and scholars. Some nobles suspect a backroom deal between officials and merchants, as the plan would threaten the existing social hierarchy.

Gu Yun witnesses the chaos in court and notes the aging and stress of Emperor Li Feng.

Li Feng invites Gu Yun for a private chat, where the crown prince meets Gu Yun, showing great admiration for him. Li Feng expresses his wish for Gu Yun to guide the crown prince in the future.

Chang Geng receives a leaked memorial from Fang Qin, the current Minister of Revenue and an extraordinary talent. Fang Qin criticizes the plan to sell violet gold to civilians, citing security risks and long-term consequences.

Fang Qin's memorial directly challenges the proposal, using Gu Yun’s name to emphasize that the violet gold was acquired through the sacrifices of soldiers and should not be squandered. The memorial raises doubts in Li Feng’s mind about the proposal's feasibility.

Chang Geng appears to have anticipated this challenge, viewing Fang Qin as an obstacle. He hints at having a solution but does not reveal it immediately, allowing the tension between the new and old factions in court to build.

Gu Yun returns home late after being detained by Li Feng. Shen Yi accompanies him and expresses concern over the complexities of the court and his own personal issues, including avoiding a marriage arranged by his father.

Shen Yi implies that he might leave the battlefield and settle down, leaving Gu Yun to ponder the possibility of retiring.

Upon reaching the Marquis Estate, they encounter Chang Geng, who warmly greets them. Chang Geng's affectionate gesture towards Gu Yun leaves both generals momentarily speechless.

Shen Yi arrives at the Marquis Estate and is shocked to learn that Gu Yun and Chang Geng have consummated their relationship.

Shen Yi expresses concern about their future, questioning how they plan to continue this relationship given the complexities of their statuses, especially considering Chang Geng's position and the potential for scandal.

Gu Yun admits he has thought about these issues but intends to keep Chang Geng safe as long as he is alive. He plans to take Chang Geng away once Jiangnan is recovered, not caring about others' opinions.

Shen Yi shares his personal struggles, explaining that his family pressures him to marry, and recounts past family drama that led him to join the army with Gu Yun to escape these expectations.

They discuss the current state of affairs in the nation, including the plight of refugees in Jiangbei and the complications in the imperial court.

Shen Yi mentions General Zhong's memorial on the dire conditions of the refugees, and Gu Yun considers using it to take a stance in court, showing support for Chang Geng and the Grand Council.

Chang Geng appears and advises Gu Yun not to speak in court about these matters, as it may complicate things. He assures Shen Yi that he has a plan to arrange everything before winter.

Shen Yi realizes Chang Geng’s significant influence and competence in managing national affairs, recognizing the young prince's leadership in the Grand Council.

Chang Geng subtly flirts with Gu Yun, making Shen Yi feel awkward and out of place. Shen Yi decides to leave the Marquis Estate, finding the atmosphere too intimate.

Shen Yi leaves the Marquis Estate after a tense conversation with Gu Yun and Chang Geng about the complications of their relationship and the future.

Gu Yun refrains from drinking alcohol, aware of Chang Geng's concerns for his health, and instead lets Chang Geng take care of him, playing along with his overprotective behavior.

Chang Geng receives a letter from Great Master Liao Ran, informing him of a plague in Jiangbei among the refugees, a situation that had not been reported to the court.

Gu Yun helps Chang Geng with acupuncture to pacify his spirit, recalling Miss Chen's warning about Chang Geng's unstable emotional state due to wu’ergu.

Chang Geng, struggling with his extreme emotions and paranoia, seeks comfort in Gu Yun, who reassures him with promises to always be there, even jokingly agreeing to imprison Chang Geng if he goes mad.

In the grand assembly the next day, the court is in chaos as major noble families argue against the idea of civilian trade in violet gold.

Jiang Chong, speaking on behalf of the Grand Council, agrees that violet gold should not be traded with civilians but emphasizes the urgent need to address the refugee situation, revealing news of the plague in Jiangbei.

The court is shocked to learn of the plague, a fact that had been hidden by local officials to protect their reputations, causing a stir and placing the Lü family in a difficult position.

Chang Geng reveals that he had received information about the plague from Great Master Liao Ran and urges the court to verify the severity of the situation.

Emperor Li Feng, enraged by the negligence of the officials, orders an investigation into the situation, highlighting the divide and the hidden corruption within the court.

Assistant Minister Lü is terrified after news of the plague in Jiangbei is revealed in court, fearing the repercussions.

Fang Qin steps forward, attempting to downplay the situation, suggesting that Great Master Liao Ran might have exaggerated the issue.

Chang Geng counters Fang Qin’s argument, presenting a hidden message sent by Liao Ran, revealing the severity of the plague.

Chang Geng suggests he will personally travel south to Jiangbei to investigate the situation, catching Fang Qin and the other nobles off guard.

Li Feng is reluctant to let Chang Geng go, but Gu Yun intervenes, offering to escort Chang Geng and proposing this trip as an opportunity to scout the front lines.

The next day, the Emperor issues an edict appointing Chang Geng as the imperial envoy to investigate the situation in Jiangbei, with Gu Yun as his escort and Ge Chen of the Lingshu Institute to scout the Western army.

Fang Qin is furious with the outcome, but he hides his anger and maintains a composed demeanor.

Lü Chang confesses his brother-in-law Yang Ronggui’s crimes to Fang Qin, revealing a series of atrocities, including covering up the plague, killing dissenters, and blocking relay stations.

Fang Qin scolds Lü Chang for misunderstanding the situation and suggests that Prince Yan was never truly supporting the merchants but using the situation to attack the corrupt officials.

Fang Qin gives Lü Chang a cryptic hint to "Don the yellow robes," implying that Lü Chang should try to leverage this crisis to pit the imperial court against Prince Yan.

Fang Qin contemplates using the situation to his advantage, aiming to drag Chang Geng into the political mire, suggesting he has a hidden plan to counter Chang Geng's influence.

Chang Geng briefs the Grand Council on their responsibilities before heading south.

Chang Geng returns to the Marquis Estate, where Gu Yun is playing a tune on a jade flute.

Chang Geng is slightly annoyed by Gu Yun's playful behavior but is calmed when Gu Yun says he wants to join the journey to Jiangbei because he is worried about him.

Uncle Wang announces the arrival of the Crown Prince, who has come to bid farewell to Gu Yun and Chang Geng as they leave for Jiangbei.

The Crown Prince, after an awkward speech, asks for a piece of Gu Yun’s calligraphy, which Gu Yun provides, delighting the young prince.

Chang Geng shows signs of jealousy towards Gu Yun's affection for the Crown Prince and mentions his lack of guidance in childhood, which Gu Yun offers to make up for by guiding Chang Geng’s hand in writing.

Gu Yun, Chang Geng, and their party leave the capital for Jiangbei three days later, escorted by twenty guards led by Gu Yun.

Xu Ling, the Right Assistant Supervisory Commissioner, questions the detour to the Northern Camp, where they are introduced to a new type of aerial war chariot, a fast and powerful version of the red-headed kites.

The war chariot, known as the "great condor," is designed for speed and efficiency, reducing travel time significantly, allowing them to reach Jiangbei in just two and a half days.

Chang Geng plans to travel to Jiangbei directly with the great condor to take the enemy by surprise.

Meanwhile, in the capital, Shen Yi is reluctantly brought back to his family estate by a servant, where he encounters his third aunt and cousin.

Shen Yi learns that his cousin, Shen Hui, got into trouble after a brawl in an illegal brothel, ending up imprisoned by the capital magistrate.

Third Madam reveals that Shen Hui was bailed out by Minister Lu from the Ministry of Justice, who did it as a favor to the Shen family because he is considering a marriage alliance.

Shen Yi discovers that this favor is connected to matchmaking attempts with Assistant Minister Lü's daughter, who has shown interest in Shen Yi after his heroic acts in the capital's defense.

Shen Yi makes an excuse to avoid dining with his third aunt and cousin, who had visited to discuss a possible marriage alliance with the Lü family.

As Third Madam and Shen Hui leave, the Shen family's myna bird insults them, amusing Shen Yi despite himself.

Shen Yi's father, Old Mister Shen, discusses the delicate political situation, hinting at the Lü family's growing disregard for the emperor and possible ambitions for power.

Shen Yi begins to realize the Lü family's intentions may be more sinister, potentially involving a plan to manipulate Prince Yan and possibly force a change in power.

Old Mister Shen advises Shen Yi to delay any engagement with the Lü family, suggesting the importance of keeping a neutral stance amidst the brewing political turmoil.

Shen Yi becomes concerned about the Lü family's potential plans to use Prince Yan to usurp power, realizing the grave implications this could have for Gu Yun and the country.

Old Mister Shen warns that the unrest and ambition of those in power could push Prince Yan into a position where he is perceived as a threat to the emperor, making his intentions and actions crucial to the empire's future stability.

Shen Yi struggles with the idea that Prince Yan could be forced into treasonous actions by those around him, feeling helpless in the face of these complex political dynamics.

In Jiangbei, Gu Yun, Chang Geng, and their party encounter a severe thunderstorm while flying on the great condor, the aerial war chariot.

The storm causes the great condor to malfunction, leading to a crash landing in enemy territory, across the river.

The group realizes they have crossed into Western territory, with the potential of being discovered by enemy troops.

Gu Yun and the guards dismantle the great condor, taking the propulsion system and setting the rest on fire to prevent it from falling into enemy hands.

Gu Yun boldly suggests they attract the enemy troops to capture a way back, shocking and frightening Commissioner Xu with his audacious plan.

Xu Ling's initial trust in the Marquis of Order, Gu Yun, begins to waver as they end up in enemy territory by accident.

The party crash lands in a no-man’s-land controlled by Western forces and discovers that the region is deserted and heavily patrolled by the enemy.

Xu Ling reveals he learned some foreign languages to make himself useful in battle, a decision born out of witnessing the uselessness of scholars during the siege of the city.

The group captures a Western patrol and Xu Ling translates the soldiers’ conversation, revealing that the Westerners are aware of Great Liang’s presence in the area.

Chang Geng and the guards quickly eliminate the Western patrol to prevent them from alerting their forces.

The party finds a deserted village and decides to hide in an abandoned ancestral temple to interrogate the captive.

In the rear courtyard of the temple, they discover the decapitated corpses of the villagers, indicating the Westerners had conducted a brutal massacre to clear the area.

Chang Geng deduces that the Western forces had performed a "thorough cleansing" of the plains, eliminating all potential resistance from locals.

Gu Yun reads a line of poetry left by one of the villagers, expressing sorrow and betrayal over the absence of the imperial army.

Xu Ling asks when they can fight back against the Western forces, and Chang Geng explains that they need time to rebuild their strength and stabilize the situation in Jiangbei.

Xu Ling warns Chang Geng about the potential political fallout if corrupt officials like Yang Ronggui turn public opinion against him.

Chang Geng is undeterred, emphasizing that he has no personal ambitions and is prepared to face impeachment if necessary, as long as it benefits the nation.

Xu Ling is moved by Chang Geng’s dedication to the country and begins to question his previous intent to gather evidence against Prince Yan for impeachment.

Gu Yun overhears Xu Ling’s conversation with Chang Geng and begins to piece together the intentions of the members of the Imperial Censorate and the Department of Supervision who sent Xu Ling on this mission.

Gu Yun realizes that Prince Yan's journey south is not just for gathering information but is also a way to indirectly communicate with the emperor, Li Feng.

Gu Yun reflects on how Li Feng prefers "pure officials" like Xu Ling, who are simple-minded and loyal, but he has become wary of Chang Geng as the prince's influence grows.

Gu Yun and Chang Geng understand that Xu Ling was sent to keep an eye on Prince Yan, possibly to find evidence against him.

Despite Gu Yun's awareness of Chang Geng's political maneuvering, he subtly aids him by deflecting suspicion about their contact with the military.

Chang Geng experiences conflicting emotions, wanting to reveal his schemes to Gu Yun yet fearing what Gu Yun might think of him.

The group captures a Western sentry post, disguising themselves with the Westerners’ armor and integrating into the enemy ranks.

Ge Chen is used as a “spy” to be captured by the Westerners, allowing the group to infiltrate further.

Xu Ling uses his knowledge of the Western language to communicate with the enemy guards and avoid suspicion.

Chang Geng quietly kills a suspicious Western soldier while Gu Yun leads the group deeper into enemy territory.

The group causes chaos in the Western garrison by triggering an explosion and using the commotion to escape.

They reach the riverbank, where Gu Yun’s guards have prepared a plan to escape using a Western dragon ship.

The group successfully hijacks the ship and slips away from the garrison amidst the chaos, blending into the early dawn.

Ge Chen pilots the Western dragon ship with enthusiasm, collecting its parts for the Lingshu Institute.

A Black Iron Battalion guard signals the ship from the river and is pulled aboard.

The Western navy is thrown into confusion as Great Liang's forces arrive, only for the Liang Navy to retreat after a show of force.

Zhong Chan and Yao Zhen greet Gu Yun and Chang Geng at the Jiangbei Garrison, with Zhong Chan disapproving of their risky actions.

Gu Yun and Chang Geng take some time to rest after the chaotic escape.

Chang Geng tends to Gu Yun while he rests, applying pressure to his acupoints and attempting to kiss him, which leads to a confrontation.

Gu Yun confronts Chang Geng about his hidden plans, pointing out his willingness to use any means to achieve his goals.

Chang Geng explains his plan to force the emperor to support him and how he intends to use Jiangbei as a breakthrough point for his reforms.

Gu Yun, frustrated by Chang Geng's self-destructive behavior and willingness to disregard himself, gives him a verbal and physical reprimand, hitting him with the white jade flute.

Gu Yun expresses his disappointment in Chang Geng's attitude, emphasizing that self-respect is crucial regardless of others' opinions.

Chang Geng admits his only treasure in life is Gu Yun and feels betrayed by the world.

Gu Yun dismisses Chang Geng, telling him to proceed with his plans to investigate corruption in Jiangbei with Commissioner Xu.

Chang Geng struggles with his emotions but decides to leave, expressing his desire for Gu Yun before departing.

The storm clears in Liangjiang, leaving the weather hot and humid.

The Jiangbei Garrison, once a patchwork army, becomes a disciplined force under General Zhong Chan's command.

Gu Yun and Zhong Chan discuss the situation, acknowledging the Westerners' naval superiority and the need for improvements in Great Liang’s navy.

Zhong Chan expresses concerns about Chang Geng holding the Linyuan tablet and his influence on the court, suggesting Gu Yun should have a backup plan if Chang Geng becomes too powerful.

Chang Geng and Xu Ling, disguised as merchants, arrive in Yangzhou to investigate corruption.

They encounter Yang Ronggui, who hosts a banquet but doesn’t attend in person, sending minor officials instead.

During the banquet, they learn that a fake Prince Yan has been received in the city, allowing Chang Geng to move more freely.

Chang Geng and Xu Ling visit the refugee quarters, discovering only a few healthy individuals, indicating a setup to deceive them.

Chang Geng orders an investigation and attempts to contact Liao Ran for help in gathering information.

Yang Ronggui, aware of Chang Geng’s presence, sends a secret missive to the capital and orders city defense forces to prepare reinforcements, creating a tense situation.

In the capital, Shen Yi’s father falls ill, leading to the delay of engagement talks, while Shen Yi requests leave to care for his father.

Shen Yi secretly leaves the Shen Estate, meeting with Chen Qingxu, who assists him in his covert activities.

After thanking Chen Qingxu for her help, Shen Yi rides toward the northern outskirts of the capital, preparing for an undisclosed mission.

Yang Ronggui hosts a banquet for fake Prince Yan and Xu Ling, believing he can manipulate the situation.

Yang Ronggui praises Prince Yan as ambitious but easy to handle, dismissing Xu Ling as a naive scholar. He also thinks he avoided trouble with Gu Yun by ensuring the Marquis of Anding left for Jiangbei.

Despite outward confidence, Yang Ronggui is aware of the danger Prince Yan poses. He plans to resolve the situation quickly before it spirals out of control.

Meanwhile, the real Chang Geng and Xu Ling continue their undercover investigation into the refugee camps, blending in with the common people and finding out that the refugee camps have mysteriously disappeared.

Xu Ling and Chang Geng meet Innkeeper Sun, a fierce former armed escort turned tavern owner, who seems suspiciously familiar with the situation in Yangzhou.

Innkeeper Sun eventually reveals that refugees have been killed or forced into gangs, confirming that Yang Ronggui has been corrupt and deceitful, pocketing money meant for the refugees and using the rest for personal gain.

Chang Geng realizes Yang Ronggui has hidden the refugees in remote areas or recruited them into criminal gangs like Innkeeper Sun’s Shahai Gang.

Sun challenges Chang Geng to prove his sincerity by following him without his guards, indicating that Sun is looking for someone in the imperial court to genuinely help the oppressed people.

Meanwhile, the fake Prince Yan, played by Cao Chunhua, and fake Xu Ling are enjoying luxury at Yang Ronggui’s estate, completely oblivious to the real situation outside.

Their disguise is momentarily threatened when Yang Ronggui barges in, surrounded by armed guards, but surprisingly, he kneels before the fake Prince Yan, asking for protection.

Yang Ronggui declares his rebellion, citing the incompetence of the emperor and proposing that Prince Yan ascend the throne, offering him a yellow dragon robe.

The fake Prince Yan and Xu Ling are caught off-guard by this unexpected turn, realizing they’re in a dangerous situation.

Xu Ling tries to refute the rebellion claim, warning that the Marquis of Anding and the elite troops in Jiangbei are too close for Yang Ronggui to succeed.

Yang Ronggui insists he’s not rebelling but claims the emperor has been assassinated, leaving the nation in need of a strong ruler, and pushes for Prince Yan to take the throne.

Gu Yun and Zhong Chan work with Ge Chen from the Lingshu Institute to dismantle and analyze a captured Far Western dragon warship, trying to improve Great Liang’s naval capabilities. They must be prepared for future naval battles, considering all factors like speed, defense, and firepower.

Gu Yun is managing military operations on multiple fronts, including the Jiangnan region. He spends his days patrolling and nights strategizing with old General Zhong and Yao Zhen.

Despite his exhaustion, Gu Yun pushes through his duties. Yao Zhen notices Gu Yun’s deteriorating health and invites him to his home for a home-cooked meal, but Gu Yun declines, claiming to be too tired to eat.

Gu Yun reflects on how fate has led Yao Zhen, a man who once avoided politics and ambition, into a key military role. Yao Zhen shares his philosophy of seeking peace and avoiding the corrupt court, reminiscing about their carefree youth.

Suddenly, Ge Chen arrives with alarming news: Yang Ronggui has launched a revolt. The fake Prince Yan (Cao Chunhua) has sent a desperate message, revealing they are in danger and that the emperor may have been assassinated.

Gu Yun realizes the gravity of the situation. If Li Feng is dead and the throne is vacant, Yang Ronggui and his allies could detain Prince Yan and march him to the capital as a puppet ruler.

Gu Yun orders Ge Chen to stay behind and try to contact the capital while he prepares to head to Yangzhou with reinforcements.

Meanwhile, the fake Prince Yan and Xu Ling are forced to march north with Yang Ronggui’s rebel army, surrounded by guards. They realize their situation is dire and that Yang Ronggui’s control over the region is strong.

At night, Gu Yun sneaks into their quarters, revealing his identity to the fake Prince Yan and Xu Ling. Cao Chunhua, disguised as Prince Yan, flirts with Gu Yun before Gu Yun recognizes him and demands to know what happened.

Back in the capital, Lü Chang receives a secret letter informing him that Prince Yan is trapped in Yangzhou and that the rebellion is progressing as planned. Lü Chang privately discusses his next move with his aides, confident in his success.

Fang Qin, a seemingly neutral advisor, also arrives at the Northern Camp, holding a secret meeting with Shen Yi, leaving Shen Yi suspicious about Fang Qin’s true motives.

The scene shifts to the Longan Emperor, Li Feng, who is preparing to celebrate his birthday at the newly constructed Altar of Prosperity. The emperor reflects on his youth and his past camaraderie with Gu Yun, feeling a wave of loneliness as he prepares to confess his mistakes to the heavens.

As Li Feng begins the ceremonial ascent of the altar, a group of masked assassins attacks, causing chaos among the court officials. The Imperial Guard rushes to protect the emperor, but Captain Liu Chongshan reveals his betrayal, leading a coup against Li Feng.

Li Feng realizes he is the victim of a conspiracy, just as his father had been before him, as Liu Chongshan and his men prepare to overthrow him.

Liu Chongshan leads a rebellion during the emperor's ascent of the Altar of Prosperity, signaling the beginning of the attack by assassins disguised as "Dongying" rebels.

Li Feng, unarmed and caught off-guard, is nearly killed by Liu Chongshan. Despite his lack of martial skills, Li Feng stands his ground and accuses Liu of betraying his family.

Just as Liu is about to strike, Shen Yi intervenes, using a silk dart to deflect Liu’s sword and protect the emperor.

Shen Yi and Jiang Chong rush to defend Li Feng. Shen Yi, having anticipated potential threats, had arranged for estate guards from the Shen family and other military families to blend into the crowd, ready to fight the assassins.

Liu Chongshan taunts Shen Yi, challenging him as more rebel Imperial Guards and heavy armor units arrive to surround the emperor. The battle intensifies, with both sides suffering casualties.

Shen Yi displays his combat prowess, breaking an assassin's arm and seizing a Dongying sword to continue defending Li Feng. He taunts Liu Chongshan, telling him he is unworthy to test Shen's skills.

Rebel heavy armor soldiers, who were only supposed to be used by the Imperial Guard, reveal their betrayal by turning their weapons on Li Feng. Liu Chongshan whistles to signal their advance.

As the situation worsens, Liu Chongshan mocks Shen Yi's reputation as a member of the Black Iron Battalion, challenging him to see how many rebels he can defeat. The rebels' superior equipment begins to push Li Feng’s defenders back.

Meanwhile, Li Feng confronts Liu Chongshan, accusing him of being an insignificant captain who is betraying the emperor after receiving promotions. Liu Chongshan retorts by accusing the emperor of failing to govern properly and suggests Li Feng should abdicate.

Shen Yi realizes that the rebellion might be connected to a larger plot involving Fang Qin. Fang’s strategic moves—sending a letter to the Northern Camp and arranging for his sister to be placed under house arrest—were a way to subtly frame Prince Yan.

Liu Chongshan escalates the situation by implying that someone else is more deserving of the throne than Li Feng, hinting at Prince Yan. Shen Yi grows increasingly anxious about whether Prince Yan is involved.

As Liu Chongshan presses his attack, Shen Yi struggles to maintain his defense, but rebel forces surround the emperor. Just when all hope seems lost, the piercing shriek of armored hawks signals reinforcements from the Northern Camp, sent by Gu Yun.

The armored hawks quickly dispatch nearby rebels, and Gu Yun's elite soldiers arrive to restore order. The Northern Camp soldiers arrest the rebels, including Liu Chongshan.

Li Feng remains furious and devastated, realizing that many trusted officials, including Liu Chongshan, have betrayed him. He orders the city gates to be sealed for a full investigation.

During the confusion, a captured servant of the Lü family confesses that Yang Ronggui, the Governor of Liangjiang, had planned to lead an uprising and install a "new emperor" after the assassination of Li Feng.

The servant’s confession links Yang Ronggui to Lü Chang’s conspiracy, and Li Feng realizes that the plot was far more intricate than he imagined. The rebellion was designed to replace him with a new ruler, orchestrated by powerful nobles.

Li Feng orders Yang Ronggui and the supposed "new emperor" to be brought to him, feeling betrayed by those closest to him and on the verge of collapse. The revelation of Yang Ronggui's plan and his connection to Prince Yan leaves Li Feng questioning whether his own brother is behind the rebellion.

Li Feng, enraged and in disbelief, is stunned when Gu Yun, disguised as an armored hawk, reveals himself, having unexpectedly returned from the south.

Lü Chang’s plan involved using Liu Chongshan to assassinate Li Feng and frame Prince Yan for treason. He believed that Gu Yun was still in Jiangbei and would only learn of the events after the capital had been secured.

Lü Chang realizes someone has betrayed him, possibly Fang Qin, who used the information provided by Lü Chang to sabotage him while remaining loyal to the emperor. Lü Chang grows paranoid and suspects Fang Qin might be aligned with Prince Yan.

Fang Qin, witnessing Gu Yun’s return, becomes anxious as his carefully laid plans unravel, though his role in saving the emperor still gives him an advantage.

Gu Yun kneels before Li Feng, explaining how Yang Ronggui had seized Prince Yan in Yangzhou and raised an army, forcing Gu Yun to rush back to the capital with armored hawks. He apologizes for failing to protect Prince Yan.

Fang Qin’s ally, Wang Guo, questions Gu Yun’s story, suggesting Gu Yun might have intentionally allowed Yang Ronggui to escape. Gu Yun deflects this by explaining the difficulties of tracking Yang Ronggui’s forces and the limited resources he had.

Gu Yun implies that Fang Qin had prior knowledge of the rebellion, subtly putting the spotlight on him. Fang Qin becomes increasingly nervous as his involvement is exposed.

The commander of the Northern Camp, who had been alerted by Fang Qin’s warnings, arrives with troops, and Yang Ronggui, along with his faction, is captured and brought to the capital.

Yang Ronggui, attempting to save himself, accuses Fang Qin of orchestrating the rebellion and persuading Lü Chang to join the plot. Fang Qin denies the accusations.

Wang Guo supports Fang Qin by pointing out that Yangzhou was full of armed troops, casting doubt on Yang Ronggui’s claim of innocence.

Lü Chang, desperate and in tears, continues to plead his innocence.

Li Feng, frustrated by the chaos, orders Prince Yan to be brought forward. However, the "Prince Yan" presented is revealed to be an imposter in disguise, as his human skin mask and padding are removed, exposing a stranger.

It becomes clear that Yang Ronggui’s men had disguised themselves as Prince Yan and Xu Ling, while the real Prince Yan and Xu Ling had escaped, likely blending in with the Northern Camp.

Yang Ronggui is left speechless, realizing that the real Prince Yan and Xu Ling had outsmarted him and disappeared.

Fang Qin is left baffled by the twists, unsure of Yang Ronggui’s true intentions or whether Prince Yan was part of a deeper plan.

Li Feng, overwhelmed by the revelations and exhausted, nearly collapses but is supported by Gu Yun. He refuses to show weakness in front of the court and descends the Altar of Prosperity with Gu Yun’s help.

As the sun sets, the Imperial City is painted red, symbolizing the bloodshed and treachery that unfolded.

The Lü clan and their faction were swiftly arrested and sent to jail, awaiting trial. Fang Qin and his allies, though they helped save the emperor, ended up in a precarious state as their plans fell apart. Prince Yan remained missing, and no one knew if he was alive or dead.

The grand assembly was canceled, and the Imperial Academy of Medicine scrambled to attend to the emperor’s health. Gu Yun and Shen Yi stayed in the palace through the night, leaving early the next morning.

Gu Yun, exhausted, stayed silent for most of the carriage ride to Shen Yi’s estate. Upon arrival, they were greeted by Shen’s myna bird, which insulted Gu Yun as usual. Gu Yun, in return, took the bird with him as a gift to Shen Yi’s father, who had been ill.

Shen Yi privately asked Gu Yun about Prince Yan’s whereabouts, but Gu Yun didn’t know. He explained that after Prince Yan had Cao Chunhua impersonate him to infiltrate Yangzhou, he lost contact with him. Gu Yun had left men behind to investigate but still had no word from Prince Yan.

Gu Yun explained how Li Feng, during their conversation, hinted at concerns over power and implied Gu Yun should be cautious of Prince Yan’s ambitions. This troubled Gu Yun, but he didn’t reveal his full thoughts to Shen Yi.

Shen Yi and Gu Yun had a discussion about their weariness with court politics, joking about opening a shop to live a simpler life. Shen Yi, concerned about Gu Yun’s deep connection to Prince Yan, asked if Gu Yun had considered what he would do if their relationship faltered. Gu Yun admitted he didn’t know.

Gu Yun was summoned to the palace urgently, where he found one of the guards from Chang Geng’s security detail, bloodied and injured. The guard reported that they lost contact with Prince Yan after a mission to investigate the Jiangbei refugees.

Chang Geng had left behind a bloodstained letter explaining his situation. He had infiltrated the Shahai Gang to gather witnesses but became caught in internal conflicts among the bandits. Chang Geng warned against using military force, as it would worsen the situation and heighten public resentment against the emperor.

After delivering the letter, Chang Geng disappeared. The messenger reported that the situation in Jiangbei was deteriorating, with the mob becoming increasingly violent, torturing captured soldiers. The monk who helped deliver the letter was killed, and no further word from Chang Geng had been received.

Both Gu Yun and Li Feng were deeply troubled by this series of misfortunes, with no clear resolution in sight for the escalating crisis or Chang Geng’s fate.

Chang Geng woke up in complete darkness, with a crying Xu Ling beside him. Great Master Liao Ran consoled Xu Ling and informed Chang Geng that they were close to the Jiangbei Garrison and should be safe soon, as General Zhong had been contacted.

Chang Geng reflected on how his mission had gone awry. He had entered the Shahai Gang with Xu Ling, only to encounter the rebel mob. He was confident that the rebellion was manageable, as the rebels lacked engines, armor, and violet gold, key to real battle power.

He had convinced most of the rebel leaders to negotiate rather than fight, except for the "Heaven King," who harbored a deep hatred for the government.

The situation worsened when the Jiangbei Garrison started investigating Prince Yan's disappearance, raising tensions within the Shahai Gang. Chang Geng was forced to balance calming the rebels and persuading the Garrison not to act hastily.

Things escalated when the "Heaven King" discovered Liao Ran secretly delivering a letter for Chang Geng. Chang Geng revealed his true identity to prevent the situation from spiraling further out of control.

The "Heaven King" provoked the other rebels, and one stabbed Chang Geng to test his sincerity. Chang Geng took the blow, preventing the situation from completely collapsing.

Boss Sun, another rebel leader, helped Chang Geng escape, but most of his men died along the way, and Chang Geng sustained severe injuries while protecting Xu Ling.

As Chang Geng, Liao Ran, and Xu Ling recovered, they heard riders approaching. Chang Geng suspected they were from the Jiangbei Garrison, not the Shahai Gang. He instructed Xu Ling to welcome them.

The approaching riders turned out to be Gu Yun, who had returned from the capital. Seeing Gu Yun, Chang Geng, who had been stoic and composed throughout the ordeal, collapsed into his arms, showing his vulnerability. He admitted, in a whisper, how much pain he was in.

Chang Geng woke up, feeling weak and injured, slumping against Gu Yun. The warmth and familiar scent of Gu Yun made him momentarily forget the pain and trauma he had been through. Despite feeling dazed, he humorously asked Gu Yun if there was any wine left.

Gu Yun, deeply concerned for Chang Geng’s health, lied and gave him a mixture of water and salt, calling it wine. Chang Geng knew it wasn’t wine but played along. His exhaustion showed through his chuckles and comments, revealing how relieved he was to see Gu Yun.

Gu Yun inspected Chang Geng’s wounds, shaken by how serious they were. Chang Geng continued to lean into Gu Yun, telling him that he was scared he wouldn’t see him again, triggering a wave of emotions in Gu Yun.

Despite being furious at Chang Geng for putting himself in danger, Gu Yun’s anger dissipated into concern. He gave Chang Geng a soft kiss fueled by a mix of frustration and love, warning him that he would have to explain himself later.

The medic arrived and attended to Chang Geng’s injuries under Gu Yun’s watchful eye. Chang Geng, despite being in pain, maintained a strong front. However, he continued to lean into Gu Yun for comfort, sneaking glances to gauge his mood.

Gu Yun gently held Chang Geng, urging him to close his eyes and rest. Chang Geng, now feeling secure in Gu Yun’s arms, finally relaxed and fell into a deep, peaceful sleep.

General Zhong followed through on the promise made to Prince Yan and didn’t deploy any soldiers to the Shahai Gang. The internal strife within the gang, fueled by Chang Geng’s actions, resulted in the collapse of the rebellion. Yao Zhen arrived to take control of the situation, detaining Yang Ronggui’s associates and freeing the prisoners.

Xu Ling resumed his duties as an imperial envoy, investigating the Yang-Lü faction. He turned to Chang Geng for advice, and Chang Geng provided instructions on how to address the issue of war beacon tickets and the confiscated wealth of Yang Ronggui’s faction.

Chang Geng explained that war beacon tickets should be used as legal tender for relief efforts, especially in buying grain from big merchants. Xu Ling agreed and promised to follow his instructions.

After Xu Ling left, Gu Yun brought Chang Geng a sprig of osmanthus flowers to brighten his room. Chang Geng was touched by the gesture and pulled Gu Yun close, using his injury as an excuse to seek more comfort from him.

Chang Geng’s frequent “It hurts, kiss me” routine frustrated Gu Yun, who playfully flicked his forehead but continued to indulge him. Chang Geng, feeling content and cheeky, tugged at Gu Yun, indicating his affection.

Chang Geng, still injured, outlined a plan to use confiscated land for refugee resettlement and the construction of factories, which would be managed by the government and funded by merchants. His plan aimed to revitalize the national treasury while avoiding corruption from the noble families.

Gu Yun realized that Chang Geng had meticulously planned this strategy long before arriving in Jiangbei, using the situation to dismantle the power of corrupt officials while advancing his policies in a subtle, calculated way.

As they discussed politics, Chang Geng shifted the conversation, teasing Gu Yun and turning a political discussion into a playful romantic moment. Chang Geng pulled Gu Yun in for an intense kiss, once again showing his bold, unrestrained affection.

Gu Yun, both amused and exasperated, let Chang Geng have his way but couldn’t help commenting on his ferocity. Chang Geng, hinting at future intimacy, reminded Gu Yun that the prohibition set by Miss Chen was almost over.

Gu Yun's touch left Chang Geng yearning for more intimacy, as the latter had been longing for this closeness since their time in Jiangbei Garrison. Chang Geng’s desires were heightened, especially after being separated for so long.

Despite Chang Geng’s injury, Gu Yun teased him, asking if the pain had disappeared. Chang Geng, overwhelmed by Gu Yun’s touch, jokingly asked if Gu Yun was trying to kill him.

Gu Yun, while affectionate, shifted the conversation and demanded an explanation from Chang Geng for recklessly charging into a bandit’s nest with Commissioner Xu. Chang Geng, realizing he couldn’t charm his way out of this, admitted he hadn’t expected the rebellion to actually take place.

Gu Yun pressed further, indicating that Chang Geng must have considered the possibility of rebellion. Chang Geng admitted his mistake and expressed regret.

Gu Yun, showing vulnerability, confessed that he had been terrified for Chang Geng’s safety during the mission. He admitted that he didn’t have the strength to let another person into his heart if something happened to Chang Geng.

Chang Geng, moved by Gu Yun’s rare admission of fear, realized how deeply Gu Yun cared for him. He asked Gu Yun to lie with him, and Gu Yun complied, falling asleep beside him.

As Chang Geng watched Gu Yun sleep, he reflected on how much Gu Yun had given him and how central Gu Yun had become to his life, feeling that everything he had suffered in the past led him to this person.

Meanwhile, Xu Ling continued handling the rebellion in Jiangbei, with the help of Du Lang, who was skilled in financial matters and impossible to bribe. Together, they resolved the mob rebellion and resettled the refugees.

Yao Zhen stepped in as acting governor of Liangjiang, while Xu Ling returned to the capital with Prince Yan’s memorial to report the completion of the mission.

Prince Yan’s canal corridor plan was approved swiftly in the palace, thanks to support from the Grand Council and a lack of opposition from other departments.

The Grand Council moved efficiently, forming the Canal Commission, which worked with Du Wanquan to implement the canal plans. Factories were established, and resources flowed to support the refugee resettlement efforts.

By midwinter, the refugees in Liangjiang were gathered under makeshift factories, and after much progress, Prince Yan finally returned to the capital.

Gu Yun, after finishing tasks on the front lines, used Chang Geng's recovery period as an excuse for them to delay their return to the capital. They slowly made their way back, observing a factory under construction where refugees worked eagerly, building their new homes.

Gu Yun, disguised as a commoner, inspected the scene and noted that the workers received decent food and meals, reflecting a well-organized effort.

Chang Geng explained how most laborers were recruited from refugees, and they would be guaranteed jobs in the factories they helped build, ensuring long-term employment and stability. Du Wanquan had secured an imperial edict to guarantee this arrangement.

Gu Yun compared this plan to military families’ arrangements, questioning potential issues such as workers breaking the law or officials taking advantage. Chang Geng outlined detailed rules and regulations, with safeguards in place to prevent exploitation, and reassured Gu Yun that the system would be amended over time as needed.

Chang Geng revealed that these plans had been in the works for over a year, with contributions from Du Wanquan’s team, who had extensive experience with international trade and travel.

Chang Geng excitedly mentioned the Far Westerners' technology: a fast, long iron carriage that ran on rails, capable of pulling heavy loads. He hinted at the possibility of implementing this in Great Liang to improve transportation of goods and provisions, particularly to the front lines.

In a playful moment, Chang Geng kissed Gu Yun, teasing him with promises of revealing schematics later, while Gu Yun scolded him for his shamelessness but couldn’t resist his charms.

Shen Yi and Jiang Chong arrived to greet them at the city gates, witnessing the affectionate and playful interaction between Gu Yun and Chang Geng. Shen Yi remarked on Gu Yun’s inability to say no to Chang Geng, noting how close the two had become.

Shen Yi informed Gu Yun of two urgent matters: first, the northern barbarians, led by Jialai Yinghuo, had sent an envoy for peace talks. Gu Yun was skeptical, suspecting either internal turmoil or deception from the barbarians, given Jialai’s history of seeking revenge against the Central Plains.

Shen Yi also revealed that Emperor Li Feng’s health was deteriorating. He had broken his leg during a recent grand assembly, and rumors suggested he might be suffering from the same condition that had afflicted the late emperor. This led to concerns about the crown prince’s future.

Shen Yi speculated whether Li Feng might pass the throne to Chang Geng instead of his young son, especially since the emperor had summoned Prince Yan urgently to the palace. Gu Yun, recalling Li Feng’s earlier comments about Chang Geng’s childhood trauma, realized the emperor might be considering entrusting his children to Chang Geng due to the latter’s lack of heirs.

Gu Yun warned Shen Yi to avoid discussing succession politics, reminding him to focus on their duties.

Shen Yi, after hesitating, asked Gu Yun about his relationship with Miss Chen, hinting at a personal matter.

Gu Yun didn’t immediately understand why Shen Yi was bringing up Miss Chen but soon realized Shen Yi had developed feelings for her.

Shen Yi expressed frustration that Gu Yun wasn’t showing more appreciation for Miss Chen, given her service in harsh conditions as a medic.

Shen Yi finally admitted his interest in Miss Chen, and Gu Yun teased him about it, accusing him of acting indecorously.

Gu Yun offered some information about Miss Chen's background, revealing her family’s significant ties to the Linyuan Pavilion, which might complicate any potential marriage due to her responsibilities.

Shen Yi, although taken aback by this revelation, was still determined. He even suggested he might resign from his military position after the war to be with her, fearing that marriage during wartime would bring bad luck.

Shen Yi continued to overthink the situation, debating whether it was proper to pursue her at this time and worrying about becoming a burden or making her a widow.

Gu Yun, overwhelmed by Shen Yi's constant worrying, made a hasty exit, leaving Shen Yi to sort out his feelings.

Meanwhile, news spread quickly throughout the capital that Prince Yan had been summoned to the palace upon his return.

Fang Qin, reflecting on the political situation, felt manipulated and cornered by Prince Yan’s successful schemes in Jiangbei, particularly with the formation of the Canal Committee and the establishment of factories. He had hoped to be the one controlling these reforms but realized he had been outmaneuvered.

Fang Qin’s advisors urged him to act against Prince Yan, warning that his increasing power and influence could ultimately leave them with no leverage within the court.

Despite his concerns about destabilizing the nation, Fang Qin called for action, signaling the beginning of new political schemes against Prince Yan.

Unaware of the plotting against him, Chang Geng returned from the palace in high spirits. He was affectionate with Gu Yun, even during their meal, and seemed to have received encouraging news from Emperor Li Feng.

Gu Yun, noticing Chang Geng’s good mood, didn’t press him for details about his conversation with the emperor but subtly warned Chang Geng to remain cautious, particularly regarding negotiations with Jialai Yinghuo.

Gu Yun mentioned that when a wild beast is wounded, it often pretends to be near death to lure its enemies into lowering their guard before attacking, hinting that Chang Geng should be wary of hidden dangers both in court and on the battlefield.

Chang Geng had been enjoying a period of success and calm, having resolved the Jiangnan incident smoothly and relishing the rare opportunity to spend extended time with Gu Yun.

Gu Yun reminded Chang Geng not to let his guard down, hinting that the recent peaceful period might mask future challenges, particularly with Emperor Li Feng’s condition.

Chang Geng realized he had grown complacent and refocused himself, reflecting on the atmosphere during his visit to the palace, which now seemed heavy with a sense of impending doom.

Chang Geng playfully blamed Gu Yun for distracting him and causing him to let his guard down.

Gu Yun teased Chang Geng, but then left for the Northern Camp to handle business, particularly concerned about the arrival of the northern barbarians’ envoy.

Gu Yun received a report from Cai Bin about suspicious developments in the northern barbarian leadership. It seemed that Jialai Yinghuo had fallen ill, and his second son might have seized power by imprisoning Jialai and his eldest son.

The barbarians sent a memorial offering Jialai’s youngest son as a hostage to guarantee peace negotiations, but Gu Yun was suspicious, believing the offer might be part of a larger scheme.

Gu Yun took immediate action, issuing war beacon decrees and mobilizing troops to prepare for any potential conflict.

Chang Geng, after returning to the capital, adopted a low-key approach. He attended the Grand Council meetings, but kept a low profile, avoiding any drastic actions or reforms.

Chang Geng spent his time leisurely, even tending a garden and inventing flowerpots with Scholar Ge. These inventions, such as self-watering flowerpots, became highly sought after, though he joked about scamming the rich with simple plants.

Li Feng, visiting the crown prince, found one of Chang Geng’s flowerpot creations and questioned his son about it. The crown prince explained Chang Geng’s teachings, which emphasized the importance of laws and institutions in governance, allowing a ruler to rule efficiently without exhausting themselves.

Li Feng, impressed by Chang Geng’s practical wisdom, surprisingly agreed with his approach.

Some officials in the court misinterpreted Chang Geng’s passive behavior as weakness and submitted critical memorials against him, only to receive a harsh rebuke from Li Feng, who clearly intended to protect his brother.

Li Feng also purchased a large number of Chang Geng’s flowerpots as gifts for the palace, showing further support for him.

Fang Qin and his allies, who were planning to act against Chang Geng, became uncertain as they witnessed the emperor’s continued favor towards Prince Yan.

Peace persisted until the twenty-third of the twelfth month, when the hostage prince from the northern barbarians arrived at the capital, signaling the potential start of new political and military developments.

Gu Yun was stationed on the northwest border at the beginning of the year, as Great Liang was in turmoil, with the nation on the verge of collapse.

By year’s end, the country had recovered significantly, with signs of life and festivities returning. People were preparing for the New Year, and the capital had been restored.

The barbarian third prince’s entourage, arriving in the capital as hostages, was flanked by soldiers from the Northern Camp.

Gu Yun, Chang Geng, and Shen Yi watched the procession from Southward Tower, where they were joined by Cao Chunhua, who had just returned from an undercover mission at the northern border.

Cao Chunhua reported that despite his infiltration efforts, he was unable to get close to the third prince during his time in the north. The third prince was heavily guarded and shrouded in mystery, said to suffer from a terrible illness that prevented him from being seen.

Cao Chunhua noted that the captain of Jialai Yinghuo’s personal guard was accompanying the third prince’s convoy, raising suspicions about the intent of the hostage negotiation.

Chang Geng suddenly fell ill after their meeting in Southward Tower, developing a high fever. Despite his strong constitution, the illness took hold rapidly, worrying Gu Yun.

During the night, Gu Yun noticed Chang Geng exhibiting the twinned pupils symptom, indicating a potential wu'ergu episode. However, Chang Geng managed to regain control and calm down.

Gu Yun, concerned about the sudden onset of the wu’ergu symptoms, consulted Chen Qingxu. She suggested that while Chang Geng’s strength of will was keeping the symptoms at bay, there were concerns about how he would cope with it as he aged and grew weaker.

Gu Yun pointed out that Chang Geng had not experienced any wu’ergu symptoms even after a serious injury in Jiangbei, which puzzled Chen Qingxu and led her to consider other possibilities about the illness.

Shen Yi informed Gu Yun that Emperor Li Feng was planning to formally receive the barbarian envoy at the annual palace banquet, concerned about possible threats from agents of the barbarian women.

At the lavish palace feast, Gu Yun observed the frail third prince, who appeared sickly and confused, raising further suspicions about the nature of the hostage negotiation.

The barbarian envoy remarked that there were two people in Great Liang they had heard of: Gu Yun and Prince Yan. While they had already met Gu Yun, they pointedly asked about Prince Yan, hinting at some connection between Chang Geng and the barbarians.

As Li Feng searched for Chang Geng, it became clear that Prince Yan was absent from the banquet, raising tension in the room.

Chang Geng, recovering from his cold, is helping Miss Chen sort herbs at her residence while discussing the wu'ergu poison in his blood. Chen Qingxu shares that the wu'ergu affects his blood and acts on the mind, giving insight into its mechanism.

Chang Geng reveals that his wu'ergu attacks have become more frequent. He’s surprised to learn that Gu Yun has been silently worrying about his condition.

A palace attendant arrives, bringing a message from Emperor Li Feng. The barbarian envoy specifically mentioned Chang Geng, and the emperor invites him to attend the palace banquet, though he emphasizes that Chang Geng can leave early and doesn’t have to engage with the envoy.

Feeling pressured to make an appearance, Chang Geng agrees to attend the banquet. He asks Miss Chen for a silver knife before heading out, an ominous preparation.

Meanwhile, Imperial Uncle Wang is revealed to be in league with the barbarian envoy, who promises to eliminate Prince Yan as a threat to Wang Guo's life and status. Wang Guo manipulates the situation so that Chang Geng will attend the banquet, despite Li Feng’s suggestion that he could skip it.

At the banquet, the barbarian envoy and the third prince are under scrutiny. Gu Yun and others notice odd behavior, particularly with the third prince, who seems fragile and ill.

Chang Geng arrives at the banquet, realizing too late that he’s walked into a trap. He maintains his composure despite the tension in the room, brushing off veiled insults from civil officials who mock his connection to the barbarians.

The barbarian envoy forces the third prince to offer a toast to Chang Geng. As the prince approaches, Chang Geng is overwhelmed by a resurgence of his wu’ergu symptoms, which he had been managing until that moment.

The third prince reveals his own twinned pupils, indicating that he, too, is a wu'ergu. The encounter between the two triggers a violent reaction in Chang Geng, unleashing all the hatred and poison he has suppressed, causing his condition to spiral out of control.

Chang Geng feels extreme discomfort upon facing the barbarian third prince and his envoy, triggering memories of his abusive past with Huge’er and the wu’ergu curse. Despite his inner turmoil, Chang Geng remains composed, lightly tapping his cup to the third prince’s as he refuses to drink due to his recent illness.

Gu Yun, sensing something is wrong, moves quickly to assist Chang Geng. He notices the faint scent of blood, heightening his concern. The barbarian envoy brings up Huge’er, Chang Geng’s adopted mother, and insinuates connections to the eighteen tribes, stirring up painful memories and triggering an imminent wu’ergu attack in Chang Geng.

Wang Guo takes the opportunity to bring up scandalous rumors about Huge’er, implying that Chang Geng’s bloodline is tainted and casting doubt on his legitimacy as part of the imperial family. This escalates the tension in the hall as the other officials fall silent, realizing the severity of the situation.

As Chang Geng’s symptoms worsen, the barbarian envoy continues his veiled provocations, hoping to induce a full wu’ergu attack. Just as Chang Geng reaches his breaking point, Gu Yun intervenes, drawing a sword and pulling Chang Geng into his arms. Chang Geng manages to stay lucid, muttering that the barbarians have used shamanic poisons against him.

Chaos erupts in the hall as Chang Geng bleeds from a self-inflicted wound, and Gu Yun calls for the barbarian envoy and third prince to be detained. Wang Guo, seeing his plans unravel, feigns concern and calls for imperial physicians, but Gu Yun’s killing intent silences him.

Fang Qin, realizing Wang Guo’s treachery, tries to distance himself from the conspiracy by suggesting that the barbarians be detained and interrogated. Gu Yun orders an immediate report to the emperor and for Chen Qingxu to be summoned to treat Chang Geng.

Chen Qingxu arrives, and Chang Geng, now more stable, explains the situation to her and Gu Yun in sign language. He recounts the strange scent from the third prince and speculates that the barbarians intended to use him as a weapon. Gu Yun is furious but agrees with Chang Geng’s analysis, believing the barbarians came not to make peace but to provoke a war.

Chang Geng suspects that internal strife within the eighteen tribes might explain their strange actions, but Gu Yun urges him to focus on the immediate threat from Wang Guo, who is desperate and unpredictable.

Chang Geng reflects on the fact that he can’t testify to his own birth and admits that his origins never mattered much to him, as long as he has Gu Yun.

Chen Qingxu tends to Chang Geng's injuries and writes him a prescription, avoiding any emotional involvement but feeling deeply disturbed by the injustices Chang Geng faces.

Gu Yun leaves the room, frustrated by the situation, but can't help but smile when Chang Geng flashes him an ingratiating grin. Before leaving, he affectionately pats Chang Geng on the head.

The Northern Camp successfully rounds up the barbarian delegation, who are imprisoned in the imperial dungeons. A palace attendant is caught trying to flee, and after interrogation, reveals that he was instructed by Wang Guo to mislead Chang Geng into attending the palace banquet.

Fang Qin begins to distance himself from Wang Guo, though he carefully orchestrates his words to further implicate the imperial uncle. Wang Guo, sensing Fang Qin's betrayal, attempts to defend himself but is swiftly overruled.

Wang Guo desperately confesses to altering the emperor’s intent, implicating Fang Qin by claiming he encountered an old imperial physician, privy to secrets about Chang Geng’s origins, while drunk at Fang Qin's residence.

Fang Qin denies harboring the imperial physician and accuses Wang Guo of colluding with the barbarians.

Gu Yun arrives, asserts that he retrieved Chang Geng under the late emperor’s orders, and defends Chang Geng’s legitimacy, arguing that his upbringing proves he isn’t a child of Huge’er. He also suggests that the barbarians are trying to incite war.

Gu Yun requests permission to deploy to the northern border to verify reports of internal strife among the barbarians, but the emperor postpones the decision. Wang Guo is arrested and the imperial court prepares for further investigation.

After the interrogation, Li Feng visits Chang Geng, who feigns having used a small silver knife to cut himself, explaining that he carried it by accident from Chen Qingxu's residence. He asks to step down from his position as head of the Grand Council to avoid suspicion, which Li Feng reluctantly agrees to.

In the aftermath, Wang Guo is imprisoned, the court is shaken, and Chang Geng officially resigns. Fang Qin is surprised by the outcome, having not intended to push Prince Yan out of power, yet finding himself benefiting from it.

Gu Yun and Chang Geng return home, where Chang Geng humorously fakes being too weak to walk, throwing himself into Gu Yun’s arms. The couple exchanges lighthearted banter about the situation, with Chang Geng making a joke about his mysterious parentage.

The chapter ends with Chang Geng and Gu Yun sharing an intimate moment, with Chang Geng teasingly offering to warm up the night without needing ginger tea.

The barbarian envoy is imprisoned in the imperial dungeons after interrogation. As he is led away, he sings a mournful folk song, hinting at the closing of an era.

Shen Yi feels uneasy, sensing a significant change in the northern tribes. He believes the conflict with the tribes is not over, and war may soon resume on the northern front.

Shen Yi spots a white shadow in the dungeons but finds no footprints, discovering that two prison guards have been knocked unconscious. He soon realizes it's Chen Qingxu sneaking into the dungeons.

Chen Qingxu explains to Shen Yi that she’s there to question the barbarian envoy about the wu’ergu and presents a letter from Chang Geng stamped with Gu Yun’s seal to legitimize her presence.

Shen Yi is flustered in Chen Qingxu's presence but remains professional. He follows her into the dungeon to oversee her interaction with the barbarian envoy, Chikuyou.

Chikuyou admits that he is loyal to the Wolf King, who, despite losing control over the eighteen tribes due to age and illness, prefers war over allowing his people to be "tamed" by Great Liang.

Chikuyou reveals that the second prince of the tribes is merely a puppet for others who seek control, while the third prince is an incompetent, incomplete wu’ergu.

Shen Yi deduces that internal strife is brewing among the northern tribes, with Jialai Yinghuo losing his grip on power.

Chen Qingxu asks Chikuyou about the wu’ergu, and Chikuyou admits that he only knows how to control and activate it, not how to refine it. He claims that the secret of creating wu’ergu lies with the goddess and Jialai Yinghuo.

Chikuyou denies the existence of a cure for the wu’ergu, stating that once someone is refined into wu’ergu, they are no longer human. He mocks Chen Qingxu for seeking a way to reverse the process.

Chikuyou provocatively suggests that if they want the secret, they’ll have to defeat the forces holding Jialai Yinghuo captive, implying the tribes are ripe for war.

The conversation confirms that Jialai Yinghuo holds the key to understanding the wu’ergu, providing Chen Qingxu with a lead for further investigation.

The next day, Chen Qingxu leaves the capital to follow the lead. Shen Yi, anxious about her departure, urges Gu Yun to act.

Gu Yun receives orders from Li Feng to secretly investigate the situation in the north but is cautioned against mobilizing troops without cause.

Chang Geng, unable to join Gu Yun on the frontlines due to his health, watches him leave with a growing sense of unease. He then instructs his coachman to take him to Southward Tower, likely to pursue his own plans.

On Gu Yun's first night out of the capital, his monocle breaks unexpectedly, which is considered a bad omen, but Gu Yun brushes it off humorously.

A guard finds an envelope sealed with wax among Gu Yun's belongings, likely packed by Chang Geng. Inside, Gu Yun discovers a detailed and long-term strategic plan for the future of Great Liang, including maps, designs for steam locomotives, and economic plans to modernize the country. At the bottom is a painting labeled The world at peace, symbolizing Chang Geng’s vision.

Gu Yun is moved by the thoroughness and foresight displayed in the documents and realizes how much thought Chang Geng has put into shaping the future of the nation.

Gu Yun and Shen Yi reach the northern frontlines, where the situation has been in a deadlock, and meet General Cai Bin, who is now the interim commander of the Northern Border Defense Corps.

Cai Bin briefs them on the situation: the barbarians are suffering from poor harvests, starvation, and infighting. There are signs that the unity within the eighteen tribes is deteriorating, and their supply chain has been disrupted.

Shen Yi reveals that Jialai Yinghuo, the barbarian Wolf King, is in a weakened position, with his sons vying for control, and internal strife has emerged within the Eighteen Tribes Confederacy.

Cai Bin is confused about why the barbarians would go to such lengths to infiltrate the capital, as their method of attack seems indirect. Gu Yun and Shen Yi explain that Jialai Yinghuo may be trying to provoke a conflict, using the Far Westerners' influence to force Great Liang into a two-front war.

Gu Yun theorizes that the Far Westerners want to divert Great Liang’s attention north to weaken their defenses in the south, allowing the Far Westerners to re-establish their supply routes and force Great Liang into disadvantageous peace talks.

Gu Yun decides to play along with the barbarians’ diversion by assembling Black Iron Battalion soldiers on the northern border and creating the illusion that Great Liang is withdrawing from the southern front.

The eighteen tribes send a severed head and violet gold as peace offerings, but Gu Yun advances his army to demonstrate that he won’t accept peace so easily, further stirring internal conflict within the tribes.

Shen Yi is concerned for Chen Qingxu, who he believes has gone to the tribes’ territory, but she soon arrives at the northern camp, surprising him.

Shen Yi’s concern is interrupted by the arrival of a Black Hawk scout with an emergency dispatch from the Grand Council, marked with a red streamer, indicating a military crisis.

The chapter ends with Gu Yun taking a long moment to read the dispatch, leaving everyone anxiously wondering what disaster has occurred.

General Zhong Chan of the Jiangbei Garrison dies suddenly, not in battle but peacefully of old age, at the age of 76. His death comes as a shock, as it occurs during a critical time when Jiangbei is still stabilizing after the recent conflict.

Gu Yun is deeply affected by the news, but he tries to remain composed, though it takes him a while to process the reality of Zhong’s death.

Gu Yun realizes that the timing of Zhong’s death is unfortunate, as Jiangbei’s situation remains delicate. Zhong had been crucial in stabilizing the region, and his loss leaves a gap in leadership.

Gu Yun expresses concern over how to manage Jiangbei now, particularly because Governor Yao Chongze has just taken up his new post and cannot handle both military and civil responsibilities at the same time.

Gu Yun decides he must go south to Jiangbei to take command, trusting Shen Yi and Cai Bin to handle the northern border in his absence.

Gu Yun warns Shen Yi that although the barbarians are in decline, Jialai Yinghuo’s madness makes him unpredictable, and he might resort to extreme measures, especially with the wu'ergu curse.

Shen Yi assures Gu Yun that he will handle things on the northern front, and Gu Yun departs, leaving detailed instructions and emphasizing the potential dangers.

Meanwhile, the Far Westerners occupying Jiangnan are debating their next move. The Holy Empire's emissary pushes for an aggressive strategy, proposing a surprise attack to take advantage of Zhong’s death and destabilize Great Liang’s forces.

The Pope, however, opposes the plan, believing it to be reckless and that it risks disaster. The emissary, undeterred, insists that this is a rare opportunity to crush Gu Yun’s forces while they are in transition.

Gu Yun arrives in Jiangbei and immediately begins reinforcing defenses, reorganizing the troops, and ensuring that everything is ready for a potential attack.

Yao Zhen informs Gu Yun that Prince Yan (Chang Geng) will soon arrive, having been sent by the emperor to represent the imperial family and honor General Zhong.

Gu Yun, overwhelmed with emotions, goes to pay his respects to his former teacher, General Zhong. As he sits beside Zhong’s coffin, memories of his childhood training with Zhong flood his mind, and he reflects on the general’s teachings and his own loss.

While Gu Yun is lost in thought, Chang Geng arrives at the mourning hall. A guard informs Gu Yun, but he doesn't immediately respond.

Suddenly, as Gu Yun tries to stand up, he coughs up blood, likely due to the stress and exhaustion he has endured in the wake of Zhong's death and the heavy responsibilities he has carried.

Gu Yun collapses and coughs up blood, alarming his guard and Chang Geng, who immediately calls for medics.

Despite feeling slightly better after spitting up blood, Gu Yun tries to downplay his condition, telling Chang Geng not to inform anyone, especially not "Prince Yan," unaware that Chang Geng is there.

Chang Geng is deeply shaken but stays composed, holding Gu Yun’s hand tightly as the medics arrive.

The medics attribute Gu Yun’s collapse to years of untreated injuries and fatigue, which have damaged his lungs, but they suggest that expelling the blood may be a positive sign.

Chang Geng politely thanks the medics and stays by Gu Yun’s side. Liao Ran silently prays for Gu Yun’s recovery but is unnerved when Chang Geng kisses Gu Yun’s forehead in an intimate and reverent gesture.

Chang Geng reflects on how Gu Yun has hidden his injuries over the years to protect him, feeling a mix of guilt and realization about how much Gu Yun has endured for him.

Gu Yun falls into a restless sleep, and Chang Geng holds him closely, for the first time feeling neither dependent nor desirous, but simply protective, as one would a fragile child.

Meanwhile, in Jiangnan, tensions between the pope and the Holy Empire emissary escalate. The emissary insists on launching a sneak attack on Great Liang’s navy despite the pope’s objections, leading to a military operation.

Gu Yun’s quick arrival at Jiangbei has already placed the forces on high alert, disrupting the Far Westerners' plans. The emissary stubbornly proceeds, disregarding the increased defense preparations.

On the northern front, Shen Yi and Cao Chunhua receive a new barbarian envoy, including the second prince of the Tianlang Tribe, who appears panicked and possibly coerced.

Suspicious of the barbarians' sudden willingness to negotiate, Shen Yi orders caution and has the wagons inspected.

It is discovered that the second prince has been silenced using a shamanic technique, heightening Shen Yi’s concerns.

Shen Yi halts the negotiations, and just as he orders a retreat, a hidden bomb inside one of the wagons is triggered by a Tianlang youth, causing a massive explosion.

The explosion from the violet gold wagon triggers a chain reaction among the Black Iron Battalion’s equipment, leading to devastating losses.

Gu Yun wakes from nightmares in a state of alertness, only to find Chang Geng by his side, caring for him.

Gu Yun, feeling weak and guilty, tries to maintain his usual lighthearted demeanor, but Chang Geng confronts him about his health.

As they speak, the ground begins to tremble, signaling an attack on the Jiangbei Garrison.

Chang Geng realizes that the Far Western navy has launched a surprise assault, and the Jiangbei Navy is under siege.

Despite his physical condition, Gu Yun tries to rally and demands his armor, but Chang Geng insists on taking charge in his place.

Chang Geng takes Gu Yun’s windslasher and leads the defense, commanding the Jiangbei Navy to engage in a full-scale counterattack.

Chang Geng coordinates the troops, instructing them to tighten flanks, maintain artillery fire, and pin down the enemy’s aerial forces.

The Jiangbei Navy, once weak, now engages the Far Western fleet with renewed strength, showcasing their improved naval capabilities.

Meanwhile, Gu Yun remains in the command tent, overseeing the battle through a sand table and trusting Chang Geng to lead the front line.

On the northern front, the barbarian tribes, led by Jialai Yinghuo, use a caravan of suicide fighters to set off a violet gold explosion, breaking through the Black Iron Battalion’s defensive lines.

Shen Yi pulls the Black Iron Battalion back and lures the barbarian forces into a stretched formation, which the Northern Border Garrison exploits.

However, Jialai Yinghuo deploys heavy armor and war chariots, pushing the Black Iron Battalion into a stalemate.

The barbarians set wave after wave of violet gold on fire, turning the northern battlefield into a furnace of purple flames and steam.

By nightfall, the intensity of the attack forces the Black Iron Battalion to retreat, as the northern front becomes overwhelmed by the extreme heat and destruction caused by the burning violet gold.

The battle on the northern border continued into chaos, with Jialai Yinghuo employing destructive tactics, burning violet gold to block the Black Iron Battalion's advance.

The intense heat from the violet gold fires caused unseasonably warm weather, making soldiers like Shen Yi suffer burns and wounds.

Shen Yi received emergency news that General Cai was injured, leaving the line vulnerable to barbarian forces attempting to break through.

Meanwhile, a Black Hawk delivered a dispatch from Jiangbei, informing Shen Yi that the Far Westerners had launched a surprise attack on the Jiangbei Garrison, adding to the tension.

Shen Yi felt overwhelmed with the responsibility of commanding, especially as he remembered how Gu Yun had always been the one in control during such crises.

Cai’s youngest son, still a teenager, volunteered to lead the defense, displaying bravery reminiscent of Gu Yun in his youth.

Gu Yun’s emergency dispatch instructed Shen Yi to hold the line, predicting that the barbarian forces, desperate and divided, would soon falter.

Shen Yi resolved to continue the fight and pinned the enemy down with a renewed focus.

Gu Yun, from Jiangbei, continued coordinating both the southern and northern fronts, despite being absent from the battlefield.

In Jiangbei, the Far Western fleet engaged Great Liang’s navy in a strategic fight, with Chang Geng leading the forces.

Chang Geng successfully identified a weak point in the enemy's left flank and broke through their lines, despite nearly falling into an enemy trap.

The Far Western emissary, disobeying orders, withdrew from the battle, causing disarray in the Western navy.

Chang Geng capitalized on the opportunity, turning the tide and inflicting significant damage on the enemy.

Gu Yun, observing the battlefield from afar, predicted that the Western navy would soon retreat as their violet gold reserves dwindled.

The Westerners finally ordered a general retreat, unable to sustain their assault, marking their night raid a failure.

Chang Geng, exhausted but victorious, returned to Gu Yun, who embraced him and shared a private moment where Chang Geng expressed his desire for Gu Yun to avoid war in the future.

Chang Geng, still exhausted but invigorated from the battle, nearly lets his emotions get the best of him as he holds Gu Yun close in public, but catches himself and regains composure.

Gu Yun reveals he has sent a memorial to the capital, outlining his strategy to feign interest in peace talks while regaining control of the occupied territories, ultimately preparing for a full reclamation of Jiangnan.

The plan is to delay the Westerners, creating discord among them, while strengthening Great Liang’s navy and preparing for a counterattack.

Gu Yun announces his intent to return to the northern border soon to oversee both fronts, which alarms Chang Geng. However, Chang Geng remains supportive, even offering encouragement by mentioning progress on his steam locomotive project.

Chang Geng expresses concern over Gu Yun’s constant involvement in wars, but Gu Yun reassures him with a lighthearted promise of a reward for his hard work in the Grand Council.

Yao Zhen interrupts a playful moment between the two, unknowingly overhearing Gu Yun’s crass comment, which embarrasses Chang Geng.

Gu Yun stays for another day, paying respects at General Zhong’s mourning hall before departing for the northern front.

Upon Gu Yun’s arrival at the northern border, he finds that Shen Yi has held the line against the barbarian forces, but Jialai Yinghuo’s increasingly desperate and violent tactics have pushed the tribes to the brink.

Cao Chunhua reveals that the rebel faction within the tribes is still present, with resentment toward Jialai Yinghuo growing, suggesting a potential opportunity to exploit.

Shen Yi is flustered by the arrival of Chen Qingxu, who plans to accompany Cao Chunhua behind enemy lines to investigate the barbarians’ use of shamanic arts. Despite Shen Yi’s concerns, Chen Qingxu remains committed to her mission, leaving him awkwardly offering her a signal flare in case of emergency.

Chen Qingxu and Cao Chunhua successfully infiltrate the barbarians' capital, witnessing the desperation and suffering among the civilians, as starvation and death plague the tribes.

Jialai Yinghuo, who is severely weakened after a stroke, is shown to be increasingly unhinged. He berates his son, the crown prince, for his failures, still believing in an eventual victory alongside the Far Western forces.

The steward of the Wolf King leaves the yurt after being physically abused, joining the Central Plains representatives and tribal nobles who await his report.

The steward, panicking after his encounter with Jialai Yinghuo, returns to his yurt where he meets with representatives from the eighteen tribes and Cao Chunhua and Chen Qingxu, disguised as emissaries from Great Liang.

Cao Chunhua and Chen Qingxu have infiltrated the tribes under the guise of peace negotiators but know that Jialai Yinghuo won’t listen, and instead, they try to stir up rebellion within the tribe’s leadership.

The steward reveals Jialai Yinghuo’s unyielding determination to fight, even striking his own crown prince.

Despite his warnings, Lady Hongxia, an elder respected by all tribes, promises to speak to Jialai, guaranteeing an answer in two days.

A fierce debate ensues among the nobles, with some supporting rebellion against Jialai while others fear him. Ultimately, Lady Hongxia and several others resolve to move against Jialai.

Cao Chunhua and Chen Qingxu secretly coordinate with the rebels. They plan to sedate Jialai Yinghuo and have him quietly assassinated by his own guards during the night, with the steward's help.

The steward agrees to assist, and Cao Chunhua and Chen Qingxu prepare for the coup. Chen Qingxu waits for the signal while Cao Chunhua reflects on how he manipulated Lady Hongxia by pretending to be the ghost of her son to gain her loyalty.

The owl’s call, signaling the steward’s move, arrives. Cao Chunhua and Chen Qingxu leap into action, with Chen Qingxu descending from the watchtower to join the rebels.

Shen Yi, alerted by a signal flare sent by Chen Qingxu, prepares the Black Iron Battalion to move in and support the rebellion.

As Chen Qingxu sneaks into the rebel group near Jialai’s yurt, she notices something amiss: the yurt is nearly deserted, and just as the rebels reach the yurt, it is revealed to be a trap.

Barbarian royal guards pour out from the yurt, surrounding the rebels, who are caught completely off guard, indicating that Jialai Yinghuo was aware of the plot.

Chen Qingxu hides behind a banner near the Wolf King's yurt, watching as Jialai Yinghuo emerges in a violet-gold-powered wheelchair, addressing Lady Hongxia, the ringleader of the rebellion.

Jialai orders his royal guards to execute the rebels, triggering a bloody battle as chaos spreads throughout the Grand Capital of the Eighteen Tribes.

The crown prince and the steward are captured, with the steward committing suicide by crushing a poison capsule in his mouth.

Amid the confusion, a report arrives of an enemy attack, causing further panic. Jialai Yinghuo, excited by the news of Gu Yun's approach, demands his armor.

Despite his weakened state, Jialai dons his heavy armor but collapses after a single step, signaling his physical decline.

The Black Iron Battalion led by Gu Yun storms into the Grand Capital, causing more destruction.

The captain of Jialai's guard attempts to evacuate him. Chen Qingxu, observing from a distance, follows Jialai and his entourage to an abandoned temple.

Jialai enters the long-abandoned Temple of the Goddess and activates a hidden mechanism, revealing that the temple was a partially constructed flying device resembling Great Liang’s kites.

The temple, neglected and decayed, begins to collapse, with burning violet gold contaminating the area.

Jialai Yinghuo stays behind, content to die in the temple's destruction, while Chen Qingxu sneaks in to investigate the temple for clues about the barbarian shamanic techniques.

As the temple crumbles, Chen Qingxu encounters Shen Yi, who saves her from being crushed by debris. Together, they discover a strange statue made of human skin hidden in the temple’s recesses.

Shen Yi and Chen Qingxu flee the temple, which continues to collapse. They barely escape when Gu Yun and his Black Hawks arrive and help hold up the temple’s roof.

The temple finally collapses entirely, and the Wolf King Jialai Yinghuo dies within the flames, taking the remnants of the Celestial Wolf Tribe with him.

The battle concludes with the destruction of the temple and the fall of the Celestial Wolf Tribe as the violet gold continues to burn.