Episode 14 recap: Palace Rumors Stir the Emperor's Suspicions
In episode 14, although the rebel leader Da Yu has been eliminated, Lv Jing remains vigilant, continuing to lead patrols. You Yong is somewhat disgruntled by this. While passing through a bamboo grove, they are suddenly ambushed by a group of assassins in black robes. Thanks to Lv Jing's foresight, the assassins are subdued. These assassins turn out to be fanatical followers who promptly commit suicide by poison, and the insignia on their sleeves suggests a connection to the remnants of Da Yu's forces.
The fierce rivalry between the Second and Fifth Princes for the throne is well known, and any collusion with Da Yu's faction would be a capital offense. Lv Jing does not know which prince these assassins were tied to, but suspects they intended to cause trouble during the upcoming royal wedding. He orders a thorough investigation and beefs up security at the Huadeng Mansion, instructing Lady Chang Sheng to remain within the estate for her own safety.
Chang Sheng, feeling like a caged bird, constantly tries to sneak out despite Lv Jing's restrictions. One day, she accidentally slips and falls from the rooftop, only to be saved by Lv Jing once again. Seizing the opportunity, Chang Sheng steals Lv Jing's badge when he's not looking and hastily departs, only to discover later that it's a fake.
Realizing there must be some recent incident prompting the tightened security, Chang Sheng discreetly questions You Yong and You Mou over drinks, learning about the assassin attacks. She then dutifully stays within the estate, entertaining herself by catching ants with Jin Yan and Shen Xing.
When Lv Jing later informs Chang Sheng that the threat has been eliminated, he takes her out to the market. The sheltered Chang Sheng is fascinated by everything she sees, despite Lv Jing's admonitions, and soon wanders off. Lv Jing, exasperated but not angry, rescues her when assassins attack, though he sustains an arrow wound in the process.
The assassins are subdued, but like before, they choose suicide over capture. Examination of the bodies reveals insignia matching the previous group, with telltale scorch marks linking them to the Second Prince. The evidence seems to implicate Lv Hou, but Lv Jing remains skeptical, ordering a more thorough investigation.
After the market attack, rumors spread that Chang Sheng is the reincarnation of an ill-omened figure, which Lv Hou cunningly brings up before the Emperor. Concerned about potential disruption to the royal lineage, the Emperor summons Chang Sheng to the palace. Though cautious, Chang Sheng's eloquence and knowledge of ancient scripts impress the Emperor. However, she betrays unease when the Second Prince serves her tea, hinting at some deeper unease.
Comments(Episode 14)