Episode 25 recap: Shen Du Confesses His Feelings to Yan Xing
In Episode 25, Yan Xing and Pan Chi arrive to investigate a murder case involving a headless ghost. Pan Chi observes that Yan Xing becomes fully immersed in the case whenever it’s time to investigate. Jing Lin feels that Yan Xing and Pan Chi are getting too close and decides to keep an eye on them.
Yan Xing discovers blue marks on the corpse and applies some preservative fluid, revealing words that echo the messages from the previous fire moths. Yan Xing had previously heard that in the Western Regions, people would write messages with rice soup, which would disappear when dry and only reappear when treated with a preservative. Noticing the blue marks on the body, Yan Xing decided to try it out.
Upon returning, Yan Xing appears dejected. Shen Du notices and asks what's wrong. Yan Xing explains that the messages were meant for him, warning that if he continues to investigate, he won’t be able to protect those around him. He reflects on the time when his sister was poisoned, which was resolved, but now, being far away in Yingzhou, he can't protect his family.
Shen Du reassures Yan Xing that he can arrange for him to go back if he’s worried. After a long consideration, Yan Xing chooses to stay, stating that they have a mission here and can’t just leave. Ji Dafu, the brother-in-law of both the victim and the suspect, arrives, feeling awkward due to his connections with both parties.
Ji Dafu wants to know if the case can be resolved so that the deceased can be laid to rest. However, Pan Chi, adhering to protocol, says he won’t meet with the client and insists that he has obtained testimony indicating that the real culprit is the headless ghost. Ji Dafu is startled, but Mo Qianzhi is not easily deceived. Pan Chi mentions that he has obtained testimony from Xu Jize, who might receive a lighter sentence.
Mo Qianzhi emphasizes that Yingzhou has suffered from decades of war and that neighboring countries pose a constant threat. Cases must be solved and criminals caught to ensure the safety of the people. Pan Chi understands that Mo Qianzhi is trying to set an example for others.
Mo Qianzhi assures Pan Chi that Xu Jize’s head will not be displayed on the city walls. After careful consideration, Yan Xing reports his observations to the Empress Dowager, noting the close relationship between Shen Du and Mo Qianzhi. Pan Chi meets with Xu Jize, who mentions his humble origins and lack of opportunities to serve in government, contrasting himself with educated people like Pan Chi.
Xu Jize expresses that if he were to have another life, he would prefer to be an illiterate farmer rather than a half-understanding scholar. Yan Xing, having stood up Pan Chi, finds him drowning his sorrows in drink. Yan Xing understands Pan Chi's disappointment about their origins, but reassures him that as long as everyone puts in effort, change will come.
Moved by Yan Xing’s words, Pan Chi feels rejuvenated. He brings up Yan Xing and Shen Du’s relationship, to which Yan Xing responds that he will eventually leave, as Shen Du’s heart belongs to someone else.
Mo Qianzhi prepares a communal hot spring for Yan Xing and Shen Du, with servants watching over them, meaning they can only soak together. Shen Du reminisces about the past, mentioning a woven pig that someone special had given him, which he still keeps. He recalls the tough days in prison when that person would sneak in through a dog hole to bring him food, but he hasn’t seen that person since. Realization dawns on Yan Xing that Shen Du is talking about him.
In a heartfelt moment, Shen Du confesses his feelings for Yan Xing, and they share a passionate kiss.
Comments(Episode 25)