Episode 34 recap: The Jin Family is Convicted
In Episode 34, Yan Xing's mother hurriedly pursued him with several siblings, all aware that their father's actions were quite inappropriate; it was unreasonable to help outsiders at the expense of their own family. Concerned for Yan Xing, his mother prepared his favorite snacks, and his fourth sister thoughtfully handed them to him.
Looking up at the clear sky, Yan Xing suggested, "Since the weather is so nice today, why don't we go out for a walk and relax?" Everyone hesitated, feeling a bit apprehensive about Shen Du, but Yan Xing reassured them with a smile, "Don’t worry, Shen Du isn’t a man-eating tiger."
Back at their residence, Yan Xing and Shen Du teamed up to make dumplings, working harmoniously and creating a warm atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Empress Dowager sat quietly in front of a portrait of the late emperor, reminiscing about the passage of time. Though she felt she had done nothing wrong, she couldn't shake the feeling of loneliness. When Xu Wan and her group returned, they shared that while they had enjoyed their outing, nothing felt as warm as home, and spending time with the Empress Dowager was the most important thing.
Understanding the Empress Dowager's feelings, they prepared a feast, and the family enjoyed a cozy Winter Solstice celebration together, just like ordinary people.
Elsewhere, Lu Chui Chui and Jiang Langxing were having a blast playing outside. Jiang Langxing brought snacks for Lu Chui Chui, making her cheeks puff out adorably. The two, still childlike, built a snowman by the roadside, filled with laughter. However, Lai Luo Zhi watched them from a distance with a dark expression. Once Lu Chui Chui and Jiang Langxing left, he secretly took Lu Chui Chui's snowman home but carelessly stepped on Jiang Langxing's, as if to make a statement.
Back at home, he watched the snowman melt, silently declaring, "What belongs to me, no one can take away."
Later that night, Lai Luo Zhi approached the Empress Dowager with a serious demeanor, reporting that there were rumors Yan Xing was a spy placed by Zhang Xiang to monitor Shen Du. Upon hearing this, Jin Cang, Yan Xing's uncle, immediately defended him, insisting that Yan Xing would never do such a thing. The Empress Dowager, displeased, scolded Jin Cang for daring to discuss state affairs after years of service.
She questioned Lai Luo Zhi's late-night visit, prompting him to mention a children's rhyme circulating in the capital that directly criticized the Empress Dowager’s rule—a new song composed by Jin Cang.
Jin Cang quickly defended himself, stating that while he had performed this piece at the Prince's banquet, he had not written the lyrics. The Empress Dowager immediately summoned the Prince, who looked innocent and repeatedly proclaimed his innocence, claiming he knew nothing about the matter.
To calm the situation, the Empress Dowager ordered the Prince to be placed under house arrest and assigned Lai Luo Zhi to thoroughly investigate the issue. Meanwhile, Jin Cang was temporarily detained by the Imperial Censorate for questioning.
Unfortunately, the Imperial Censorate mistakenly apprehended Yan Xing's mother. Upon hearing the news, Yan Xing was frantic and rushed home, only to find that no one in the family dared to speak up for his mother. In his anger, he resolved to take matters into his own hands and vowed to rescue her.
After learning about the situation, Lu Chui Chui and Jiang Langxing split up to find Yan Xing. Lu Chui Chui was the first to locate him, informing him that Shen Du had entered the palace to plead on their behalf. Yan Xing decided to confront Zhang Xiang directly. When Zhang Xiang saw him, he asked why Yan Xing didn't go directly to the Empress Dowager. Yan Xing smiled wryly, humbly stating that he was just a minor official and didn't dare disturb the Empress Dowager.
Understanding Yan Xing's position, Zhang Xiang chose not to press further but mentioned that he had advocated for Jin Cang. He explained that while he may have been more utilitarian than caring, his actions were not overstepping but came from concern.
Zhang Xiang understood the Empress Dowager's mindset well; although she had not accused the Prince of treason, any rash appeal on his behalf could potentially harm him.
Just as Lu Chui Chui was about to leave, she was unexpectedly intercepted and taken away by Lai Luo Zhi, signaling the onset of a new crisis.
Comments(Episode 34)