Episode 2 recap: # Fourth Prince Chooses Han Zi Qing as His Concubine

In Episode 2, Han Zi Qing ponders a key thought: to return to a normal life, she may need that dagger. She rushes home and searches frantically but finds nothing—Yun Xi is just as confused. Remembering that her mother’s belongings were long thrown away by her stepmother, Han Zi Qing feels even more helpless.

Yun Xi wonders why the Second Miss is acting so differently today. She even advises Han Zi Qing not to always act like a victim and to have some backbone as a maid. Yun Xi thinks that while it’s fine to behave as she pleases in the estate, she should be cautious outside, especially since marrying into the Chen family means no support from her maternal side.

Han Zi Qing is clear-headed, knowing she won't marry into the Chen family. However, uncovering the truth about the Chen family's son is crucial to exposing Han Xi Er's schemes. So, she instructs Yun Xi to not only search for her mother's belongings but also to investigate where the Chen family's son resides.

As night falls, Han Zi Qing dons dark clothing and stealthily approaches the Chen family's residence. Unexpectedly, she comes across two men in black forcing the young master to sign a document accusing Han Xi Er, and they ruthlessly kill him. Han Zi Qing quickly realizes these men are after the Xiang family, but she can’t act recklessly and hides instead. Soon, another man in black arrives, and a fight breaks out. Han Zi Qing’s position is accidentally revealed, and she gets caught up in the scuffle. Outmatched, she hurriedly retreats.

The next morning, the second son anxiously seeks out his mother, reporting that the two men from last night are missing. His mother warns him to leave no traces behind, emphasizing that even if someone is dead, they must recover the body. Meanwhile, the Fourth Prince’s men report that the two men are indeed dead and buried. When the Fourth Prince inquires about Han Zi Qing, his subordinate remarks that she seems like an ordinary girl. This surprises the Fourth Prince, who witnessed her skills last night and knows she’s anything but ordinary.

News of the young master’s murder spreads quickly, leaving Han Xi Er in a panic, fearing that Han Zi Qing’s participation in the selection could threaten her position. However, Han Zi Qing remains unfazed upon hearing the news. Before long, someone arrives to deliver clothes and urge her to attend the selection.

Han Xi Er also shows up, attempting to intimidate Han Zi Qing with sarcastic remarks. But Han Zi Qing isn’t deterred and takes Yun Xi with her.

On the day of the selection, ministers and maidens gather in droves. Han Zi Qing intentionally walks last, attracting everyone’s attention. When the Fourth Prince arrives, he heads straight for Han Xi Er, asking what skills she possesses. Han Xi Er tries to present herself as a proper lady, especially since rumors suggest she’s already favored.

Unexpectedly, the Fourth Prince asks if she can kill, leaving Han Xi Er speechless. He then turns to Han Zi Qing, who gracefully bows and admits she has no skills. Yet, the Fourth Prince surprisingly announces he will choose her, shocking everyone present. As doubts arise, he dismisses them, declaring that from now on, Han Zi Qing will be treated just as he is treated.

With that, he takes Han Zi Qing’s hand and starts to leave. Although she initially intends to refuse, a glance at the dagger at his waist makes her change her mind and agree.

In the carriage ride back, Han Zi Qing studies the Fourth Prince intently, questioning why he chose her. He casually replies, “Because you’re interesting.”

Upon arriving at the royal residence, the Fourth Prince is called away, while Han Zi Qing is assigned to live in the West Garden. Everything feels sudden and full of uncertainty for her, but she senses that her fate may be quietly shifting.