Ziqing is hiding under Bei Yue’s bed, frantically trying to retrieve the blade, but she is discovered. Bei Yue verifies whether the blade is still in its designated spot.
Next day, they are leaving for the palace. Upon opening the door, they are confronted by officers there to apprehend Ziqing following Chen’s demise. To avoid any confrontation, Ziqing opts to accompany the officers.
EEmpress and Bei Chen are content and confident that Ziqing will be dealt with this time. Emperor presents Bei Yue with “evidence” that cannot be disputed. Ziqing is accused of murdering Chen. The Emperor questions Bei Yue if he wishes to marry a murderer. The autumn hunt is approaching, as is the Xiling envoy. Bei Yue states that if Ziqing confesses, she will be deposed; otherwise, she will remain Princess Consort. Additionally, he notes that the Ouyang sister has been detained for defying an Imperial decree.
Bei Yue commands Shadow to dig the palace guards responsible for Chen’s death out and report them to the authorities.
Ziqing is visited by a masked man. They spar, and then she bites his neck. The man expresses enjoyment of her bite. Hongyi arrives with food, and Ziqing assigns her a task.
Bei Yue gazes at the bite mark on his neck with admiration. (our man in mask)
Shadow conveys that the Emperor will preside over the case and advises Bei Yue to keep a distance.
Ziqing maintains her innocence. Chen’s parents assert that Chancellor Chen’s family is responsible for their son’s death. They base their accusation on a confession they allege Chen was coerced into signing before his demise. Xi’er and her mother provide alibis for each other, while Ziqing states she was alone without an alibi. There is pressure on her to admit to being at Chen’s place, committing the murder.
Ziqing demands an immediate autopsy on Chen. Hongyi summons the renowned coroner, Xie Zhe, who is selective about his assignments but can discern extensive details from a mere glance at a corpse. He provides precise information about the murderers and reveals that two bodies were discovered, fitting the description of individuals who might have killed Chen. The individuals dressed in purple are identified as palace guards, placing the officials in a precarious position.
The court case was adjourned. Ziqing chased after the man in the mask. Meanwhile, Bei Yue was at home, donning attire that concealed his neck. While out shopping for clothes, Ziqing ended up assisting a thief.
