Episode 23 recap: Ha Li Ke Clinches Victory in the Xinjiang Rally
In episode 23, Ha Li Ke leads the race in Dabaotown, but the road ahead is fraught with challenges, especially as he approaches the desolate wilderness where competition becomes increasingly fierce. The unpredictable nature of the Great Desert adds an extra layer of uncertainty and challenge to the race. Ultimately, Ha Li Ke's outstanding performance earns him the championship in the motorcycle category, and his family and friends gather to celebrate this grassroots hero who emerged from the vast wilderness.
Standing atop the highest podium, Ha Li Ke's smile reflects his family's pride, and even Zhao, who has been following his journey, shows a satisfied smile. After the celebration, Ha Li Ke makes his way through the crowd to his friend Lin Hao, and the two share a heartfelt embrace, marking the moment when their shared dream comes true.
Meanwhile, Xi Lin confesses her feelings to Hao Qiang, deciding to stay in Dabaotown. Her choice isn't influenced by Ha Li Ke; she genuinely loves this land. However, after the celebration, Lin Hao mysteriously disappears, causing concern among everyone. After a frantic search, they only find a blood-stained jacket, which makes Lin's father panic and faint.
It turns out that in his despair, Lin Hao had dug a hole in the desert and lay down in it—though he wasn't seeking death, he didn't know how to move forward. Ha Li Ke eventually finds him and pulls him back from the brink of despair. When Aierken arrives, he is furious about Lin Hao's immature behavior and warns him that this is the last time he will intervene in his life or death decisions.
To solidify her decision to stay in Dabaotown, Xi Lin not only brings her parents to experience the charm of the area but also cleverly arranges for them to meet Ha Li Ke. He appears somewhat nervous and even misses a call from Zhao, only returning it hurriedly after Xi Lin's parents have left, scheduling a meeting in Haining.
On another front, Lin Hao picks up his father from the hospital with Shen Di, being particularly cautious not to upset his father again. Shen Di invites Lin Hao to take a break and encourages him to confront his inner struggles. Lin Hao opens up to Shen Di about feeling neglected by his parents.
Shen Di gently reassures him that during his hospital stay, his parents had frequently inquired about his condition, showing their love and support because they wanted him to be happy and avoid regrets. She even shows him a photo of his parents' wedding, a cherished memory of Lin's father, encouraging Lin Hao to visit it as a way to open up communication with his father.
This experience finally allows Lin Hao to have a deeper conversation with his father, who candidly admits that he has come to accept his own ordinariness and encourages Lin Hao to consider life beyond motorcycles. Although Lin Hao doesn't have all the answers yet, he begins to face reality and stop avoiding it.
As for Zhao, he approaches Ha Li Ke regarding a collaboration with Gu Cheng Feng, planning to send him to the DK team for professional training in preparation for the Dakar Rally. Zhao is committed to fulfilling his promise to Ha Li Ke by providing him with the support he has always dreamed of.
Xi Lin's plan to stay in Dabaotown meets opposition from her family, but she stands firm and wins her father's understanding and support through her sincerity. The mayor, concerned for Hao Qiang, reports his situation to higher authorities, ultimately deciding to transfer him back to the district to better care for his family, especially his ailing wife, Xiao Yuan. Although Hao Qiang feels disappointed with the mayor, he understands the intention behind the decision and accepts it.
Comments(Episode 23)