Huan Yuan awakens just as Liu Chu Yu arrives with news of palace unrest. They strategize with Rong Zhi, who engineers the departure of a rival. Later, Huan confronts Rong Zhi, revealing his resentment. Meanwhile, Liu Chu Yu prepares a petition advised by Rong Zhi to challenge the elite's land control. At the palace, a poetic exchange occurs between Zhu Que and Wang Yi Zhi. In another scene, Mo Xiang questions Rong Zhi about Liu Chu Yu's early departure with Huan Yuan, hinting at future plans. (Souce: kisskh)