Return to the Capital

Xie Zheng and Changyu return to Shengjing as heroes. The people line the streets, cheering for the Marquis and his remarkable wife. The Empress Dowager receives them personally and publicly praises Changyu's peace-making efforts. For a brief moment, the couple basks in the warmth of recognition and safety.

But the political landscape has shifted during their absence. Prince Kang has consolidated power quietly, aligning himself with Qi Min in a partnership that terrifies the reform faction. Minister Shen warns that Qi Min and Prince Kang are planning something decisive — a move that could happen at the upcoming Autumn Court Assembly, where the Emperor traditionally addresses the realm.

Qianqian pulls Changyu aside and, for the first time, is fully transparent. She tells Changyu that she knows things about the future that she cannot fully explain, and that the next month will determine everything. She gives Changyu a list of specific warnings — people to watch, moves to anticipate — that could only come from foreknowledge. Changyu, shaken but pragmatic, accepts the information without pressing for explanations. Survival comes first.