Episode Title:
Taibon
Episode Description:
Maomao learns the resurrection drug was a side result of the immortality research, proven effective by Suirei. Shenmei, obsessed with regaining youth, demands a youth potion. Kyou-u attempts to help her escape, smuggling her a wire but is caught. Suirei defends him, angering Shenmei. To redirect punishment, Maomao insults Shenmei, claiming responsibility for Kyou-u's actions and, as per Loulan's suggestion, is sent to the "taibon"—a pit of venomous creatures—but delights in dispatching and eating one of them. A guard comes to her aid, bribed by Suirei and Kyou-u, revealing the stronghold's gunpowder production and an approaching army. Maomao discovers the basement gunpowder factory and witnesses Loulan evacuating the workers before destroying it. Loulan explains Suirei's background as the previous emperor's illegitimate granddaughter, and her own experience as her mother's "doll". Maomao confirms Shisui was taking abortifacients. Loulan leads Maomao to her room where she reveals the poisoned Shi children, including Kyou-u, to spare them the punishment when the Shi clan loses. The stronghold rumbles from explosions.
