Episode Title:
The Stronghold
Episode Description:
Shenmei punishes Suirei for Maomao's and Kyou-u's presence in the storehouse. Loulan -Shisui's real identity- intervenes on their behalf, convincing her mother to take Maomao as an apothecary to develop an immortality drug. At the Shi stronghold, Maomao learns more about their family history, how Shenmei ousted Suirei and her mother, reducing them to servants, even removing her original name, Shisui, the pseudonym her half-sister Loulan used. Maomao believes their attempts on Jinshi's life to be retaliation for his rear palace reforms. Pushing aside thoughts on Jinshi's royal identity, she realizes the Shi clan is preparing for war. Loulan thinks back on her wasted efforts to soften her mother's nature. Lahan reports the results of his investigation to Jinshi, revealing unreported expansion in the Shi stronghold, evidence of rebellion. Lakan storms in, criticizing Jinshi's inaction, but Luomen reins in his temper. Lakan then addresses Jinshi as a royal, asking him to mobilize the Forbidden Army against the Shi rebellion.
