Episode 23 recap: Han Zi Qing and Jun Bei Yue Return to Tian Que
That night, during the joyous celebration of her wedding, tears unexpectedly streamed down Chu Fei Yan's face. Although the Southern Zhao King had arrived as promised to grant her the title of Cloud Concubine, her mind was consumed by another matter—his promise to deal with Han Zi Qing. However, it was clear that the Southern Zhao King's plans were part of a much larger scheme.
At that moment, Qinqi's figure lingered outside the door, preparing to leave quietly when chaos erupted in the palace. The auspicious dragon-and-phoenix candles had gone out! This was considered an ill omen, and according to Southern Zhao customs, they needed to rush to the Ancient Music Cave to seek safety. Upon hearing this, Qinqi's mind began to race with ideas, contemplating how to give Han Zi Qing a "little test" in the cave.
Qinqi discreetly met with Li Ge, and they whispered to each other until Li Ge agreed to stay a few more days. Only then did Qinqi reveal the Southern Zhao King's plan. The next day, Jun Bei Yue and Han Zi Qing received a summons to the Ancient Music Cave. Both understood the situation perfectly but kept their composure. Upon arrival, they followed the custom of separating men and women. Han Zi Qing unexpectedly discovered the musical score of Li Shang on the wall, while Qinqi and Chu Fei Yan secretly celebrated having taken the antidote in advance.
Han Zi Qing also noticed the totem on the wall and felt a sense of unease, unaware of its deeper meaning. After regrouping, they parted ways again, but unexpectedly, Han Zi Qing fell into a trap, inadvertently dragging Chu Fei Yan down with her. Chu Fei Yan was relieved to be prepared, while Han Zi Qing coughed up blood, prompting Chu Fei Yan to scream for help.
Jun Bei Yue arrived just in time to rescue Han Zi Qing and scolded the Southern Zhao people. Afterwards, Han Zi Qing joked with Jun Bei Yue about her “performance,” while he lamented the need to extricate himself from this situation.
Li Ge gifted Han Zi Qing a soundstone, claiming it would allow them to hear each other's music from miles away and keep in touch. Qian Qian said a heartfelt goodbye to Han Zi Qing, and although Situ showed concern, he respected her decision. Jun Bei Yue immediately expressed his intention to leave to the Southern Zhao King, who, still fuming over the failed plan, ignored Chu Fei Yan completely. As Han Zi Qing and Jun Bei Yue departed, Li Ge discreetly tucked away the secret of the cave's totem, and her companion recognized it as something seen at Mingsha Mountain, though she was more concerned about Li Ge's health.
On the Southern Zhao King's side, new plans emerged. They had heard that by observing the totem on a person's face, one could identify the bloodline of the islanders, and they feared that Han Zi Qing might be the one who slipped through their fingers. Qinqi suggested having her sister assist in verifying this, a comment that Chu Fei Yan overheard. Reflecting on this, Qinqi realized that Chu Fei Yan had already been granted permission to return to Xiling for a family visit, leaving her with mixed feelings.
Han Zi Qing and Jun Bei Yue safely returned to Tian Que, only to find Xin Er waiting for them. Understanding the situation, Han Zi Qing tactfully avoided her and was invited to a palace banquet the next day. Preferring a light makeup look, she attended the event with a natural appearance. During the banquet, the queen and the second prince were particularly warm towards Xin Er, even encouraging her to toast Han Zi Qing, creating a subtly tense atmosphere.
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