Poison and Porridge

A second assassination attempt targets not Changyu but Xie Zheng himself. His morning porridge is poisoned with a rare herb that mimics natural illness. Changyu detects the faint off-smell — her butcher's training proving invaluable once again — and knocks the bowl from his hands just in time. The household is thrown into chaos as it becomes clear there is a traitor within the walls.

Changyu takes charge of the investigation with methodical precision. She narrows the suspects by tracking who had access to the kitchen that morning, eventually identifying the spy Qi Min planted in Episode 9. The spy attempts to flee but is caught by Xie Zheng's personal guard, Wei Liang. Under questioning, the spy reveals little — only that "the Minister promised my family would be safe."

The incident draws Changyu and Xie Zheng closer. That night, she stands guard outside his study while he works, refusing to leave despite his protestations. He emerges to find her dozing against the doorframe and carries her to her room — a gesture of tenderness that marks a turning point in their relationship.