Episode 40 recap: Cui Xing Zhou and Liu Mian Tang's Journey Through Mountains and Seas
In Episode 40, the emperor suddenly falls gravely ill and lapses into a coma. The empress dowager keeps a vigil day and night, but her health deteriorates, prompting her to return to Yongshou Palace to rest. During this critical time, Prince Sui steps forward to take on the responsibility of ruling in the emperor's absence and declares that all memorials must be submitted to him for review. Among the ministers, Cui Xing Zhou's mentor stands up to demand the impeachment of Cui Xing Zhou.
Prince Sui appears surprised but is inwardly aware of the situation, as the duke had visited the previous day, pleading for his son with tears in his eyes. Although Prince Sui had previously struggled to win the duke over, he feels a sense of satisfaction now that the duke has come to him in humility. The duke, having only one son whom he cherishes deeply, unwittingly becomes a pawn in Prince Sui's scheme, who hints at his plans to the duke.
Soon after, Cui Xing Zhou is imprisoned, and Prince Sui orders the entire family of the Duke of Huaiyang to be placed under house arrest. Late at night, Prince Sui visits the prison and mocks Cui Xing Zhou, demanding he kneel. Despite learning of the house arrest, Cui Xing Zhou stands firm and warns Prince Sui not to celebrate too soon.
Driven by his ambition to seize the throne, Prince Sui presses the empress dowager about the whereabouts of the imperial seal. She urges him to reconsider but refuses to divulge any information. Just then, good news arrives: the emperor’s condition has improved, and he can be treated. In a frenzy, Prince Sui rushes into the palace, hoping to take advantage of the emperor's weakened state. However, the emperor unexpectedly awakens, and the Jinyiwei quickly come to his protection, capturing Prince Sui in an instant.
Never in his wildest dreams did Prince Sui imagine that all his scheming would come to nothing. Meanwhile, Liu Mian Tang bravely enters the prison to visit Cui Xing Zhou. Seeing the dire situation, she decides to orchestrate a prison break. Luckily, with her exceptional skills and timely help from Shi Yi Kuan, they both manage to escape.
Liu Mian Tang also meets with Sun Yun Er, revealing that the harmful powder was her doing, not a deadly poison as claimed. It simply induces sleep. Sun Yun Er learns that the physician’s explanation about the powder changing color was also a lie; everything was under Liu Mian Tang's control. This realization makes Sun Yun Er understand that she has merely been a pawn in someone else's game.
In the end, Prince Sui takes his own life, and the emperor, free from a major threat, reunites with the empress, filled with emotion. They have weathered many storms together, their bond deepened without the need for words, their eyes glistening with tears.
With the country at peace and the people content, Cui Xing Zhou bids farewell to the emperor, expressing his weariness with court life and desire to return to Lingquan Town for a simpler existence. Liu Mian Tang shares his sentiments and wishes to accompany him. The emperor personally sees Cui Xing Zhou off, and they have become true confidants. Cui Xing Zhou quietly leaves behind the imperial seal, signifying his trust and loyalty to the emperor.
Not long after, Cui Xing Zhou and Liu Mian Tang journey together through beautiful landscapes, living a carefree life. He is both a valiant general and a devoted husband, showcasing the true essence of manhood in every role he embraces.
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