Episode 27 intensifies the political and emotional stakes. As Prince Wuxia is reinstated, the truth behind Prince Wuhen’s death emerges. Jiang Taohua risks it all as Prince Wuyin begins to suspect her betrayal.
🕵️ 1. Qingfeng’s Death Unravels the Web
Following Qingfeng’s suspicious suicide, Shen Zaiye pushes forward with his investigation into Prince Wuhen’s death. Qingfeng’s footprints matched those found at the crime scene, and though the man dies without confessing, Zaiye senses that Prince Wuyin is deeply implicated.
“Prince Wuhen wasn’t murdered in a scuffle—he was finished off after being injured. And Qingfeng was Wuyin’s blade.”
🧎 2. Meng Huairui Begs for Mercy
Imprisoned and terrified, Meng Huairui throws himself at Zhenzhen’s feet, begging to be spared. His pleas are desperate:
“I was framed! I swear on my parents’ lives!”
Zhenzhen shows mercy—publicly offering to care for Huairui’s parents. Her quiet grace adds a layer of moral depth in contrast to the corruption of the noble clans.
🏛️ 3. The Meng Patriarch Steps Down
Chancellor Meng Zhongyan offers his resignation to the Emperor, taking responsibility for Huairui’s actions. The Emperor, however, refuses.
“If the Mengs fall, the Duans and Qins will rise. The noble clans will devour one another.”
The Emperor insists that Meng continue as Chancellor, more out of political necessity than affection.
⚔️ 4. Shen vs. Wuyin – Open Threats
Shen Zaiye confronts Prince Wuyin, accusing him indirectly:
“Qingfeng knew too much. His death was no accident.”
Wuyin remains calm but vengeful:
“You dared to cross me today. Tomorrow, I’ll make you kneel on the very path you blocked.”
It’s a declaration of war cloaked in courtesy.
🧬 5. A Long-Lost Maid Named Hua
Zaiye investigates a mysterious name: Hua—whom Prince Wuyin once called fondly. Eunuch Wen uncovers that Hua was a palace maid who raised Wuyin after the death of his sister. But all records of her have vanished.
“She disappeared without a trace… it’s as if her identity was fabricated.”
Speculation mounts that Empress Lv and Hua are the same person—tying Wuyin’s manipulation to a larger, more sinister conspiracy.
🥀 6. Taohua Under Suspicion
Prince Wuyin begins to suspect Jiang Taohua. Her memories are returning. He corners her in a chilling confrontation:
“What if I carved your beautiful face? Would Shen Zaiye still love you?”
Taohua keeps her composure:
“I only wish to live quietly with Changjue.”
Wuyin lets her live—only because she’s still useful in manipulating Shen Zaiye.
🧪 7. A Deadly Antidote
Imperial Physician Bai makes a discovery:
The “antidote” to the Jiangtao poison Taohua is taking is itself a deadly toxin—used to suppress rather than cure. Bai suggests acupuncture as a new way to purge it.
Shen Zaiye’s urgency grows. He realizes:
“We are healing her with poison. Time is running out.”
🏫 8. The Imperial Exam Begins
After being cleared, Prince Wuxia is reinstated as chief examiner. Prince Wuyin voluntarily steps down, hiding his loss behind virtue.
“Wuxia surpasses me. I merely filled in when chaos struck.”
Wuxia then sets the exam topic live, ensuring no pre-distributed cheating. His presence inspires the scholars:
“No more tragedies like Jiaohan’s. A just world is within reach.”
🎼 9. The Qin Duet of Longing
Outside the Examination Hall, Zhan Lu and Qingying play a qin duet for the stressed examinees—and for Shen Zaiye. In a rare peaceful moment, Zaiye smiles.
“Let’s play together.”
The melody becomes a metaphor: two hearts beating in tension, never quite in tune.
🕯️ 10. Secret Letters and Hidden Compromises
Zaiye and Taohua share a secret conversation. She asks about Qingtai’s journey to Beiyuan, hoping for news of Changjue. Zaiye offers a promise:
“Imperial Physician Bai is working on a cure. Once it’s done, you’ll be free.”
When she thanks him, he asks:
“How do you plan to repay me?”
Taohua:
“You already have everything. What could I offer?”
Zaiye answers simply:
“A meal. One meal without politics or lies.”
She refuses to cook, but allows him to make her favorite shrimp. It’s a fragile domestic scene in a world collapsing around them.
💬 Overall Impressions
Episode 27 is one of the most emotionally layered entries in the series. Political pressure tightens, and every bond is tested.
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Zaiye navigates the court while slowly falling deeper for Taohua.
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Wuyin sharpens his grip, but his paranoia grows.
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Taohua balances deception, memory, and her own mortality.
We see a quiet tenderness bloom between characters who may never admit their love—because love is a liability in a world like this.
🔚 Final Verdict
“Episode 27 is a soft thunderclap—heartfelt, dangerous, and unrelentingly honest. The game board is shifting. And Jiang Taohua, once the pawn, may yet become the player.”