Episode Summary
Duan Banxia and Jiu Xuanye grow closer as they investigate strange occurrences at an inn. They encounter a mysterious guest, Duan Yanqiu, and face lurking dangers, including a spying eyeball and a black cat. Meanwhile, Chi Xue becomes jealous of Banxia's connection with Xuanye, and the inn's secrets begin to unravel.
Spoiler Alert
"The Demon Hunter's Romance" Episode 12: Recap & Spoilers
Heart-to-Heart
Duan Banxia and Jiu Xuanye find themselves sharing a room, and Banxia opens up about her anxieties since gaining the ability to see demons. She asks Xuanye if he's ever been afraid. Xuanye recalls a childhood memory of wanting to kill a tiger, but his father spared it upon discovering it had cubs. This made young Xuanye uneasy, feeling like he'd lost out on a tiger skin.
Facing Fears
Xuanye reveals that his fear stemmed from his father's demon-hunting activities, fearing loss. However, he claims he's not afraid anymore because he has nothing left to lose. Banxia reminds him that he has Chi Xue and her. She offers her hand, wanting him to feel her warmth, and suggests he draw a protective symbol on his own hand like the one she has, which heats up when she's scared. Xuanye, ever the stoic, dismisses the idea. Banxia, annoyed by his arrogance and perceived reluctance to connect, turns away to sleep. Xuanye waits until she's asleep before returning to his own room.
Morning Sparring
The next morning, Jiu Xuanye observes Feng Tian practicing martial arts in the courtyard and compliments his skills. Feng Tian initiates a sparring match, and Xuanye praises the innkeeper's expertise, estimating it took at least twenty years to develop.
Taste Troubles
Feng Wuniang confides in Duan Banxia that she's never been able to taste anything, feeling guilty that she can't make things taste good. Banxia kindly suggests using fewer ingredients. Wuniang mentions someone else said the same, but she relies on visual appeal since she can't taste.
A Soldier's Tale
Feng Tian recounts his time stationed at Guima Fort. Due to political turmoil and the imperial princes vying for the throne, troop rotations were neglected. When others deserted, a junior officer fell ill, and Feng Tian stayed to care for him, raising the flag daily. After the officer's death, he remained for twenty years until relief arrived.
Demon Detection
Jiu Xuanye is moved by Feng Tian's story, but the innkeeper criticizes Xuanye's leisurely mountain strolls. Xuanye asks if he's ever seen a demon and reveals that there's one present. He releases Moon Bugs to test Feng Tian, but Feng Tian catches them, proving he's not a demon, much to Xuanye's surprise.
Room Service Investigation
Feng Wuniang notices that Duan Banxia's room only shows signs of one occupant, speculating about her relationship with Jiu Xuanye. Banxia doesn't elaborate but questions why they run the inn in this location. Wuniang explains that her father said it was safe as long as they stay inside, due to dangerous wildcats.
Unexpected Arrival
The sound of wildcats draws Banxia and Wuniang outside, where they find Chu Youhuang holding a cat. Youhuang informs Jiu Xuanye that Gao Sheng has been killed and finds the inn suspicious. He sent a brother to report back and stayed with another to investigate. The cat escapes, and Chi Xue transforms into a rabbit to chase it, shocking Youhuang, who questions why a demon hunter would harbor a demon. Their conversation is spied on by a lurking eyeball hidden in a bag.
Innkeeper's Concerns
Feng Tian urges Feng Wuniang to persuade Jiu Xuanye and his group to leave, sensing their power. He also advises Wuniang to stay away from them, but she likes Duan Banxia and refuses.
Night Intrusion
After settling Duan Banxia for the night, Jiu Xuanye returns to his room. The eyeball becomes active again, and a black cat appears outside Banxia's window. Banxia cries out for Xuanye, and they both chase the cat.
Confrontation
The pursuit leads them to a courtyard where Duan Yanqiu emerges. He claims to have lived there for a long time, enjoying the scenery and the kind owners. Jiu Xuanye notices Yanqiu's pallor and offers to take his pulse and prescribe medicine, but Yanqiu refuses and dismisses them.
Suspicions
Xuanye and Banxia leave, realizing Yanqiu is acting strangely, especially his indifference to their being alone together. Xuanye detects the scent of alcohol masked by incense. Banxia is distraught that her family keeps getting involved with demons. She feels guilty and responsible. Xuanye praises her bravery, noting how she's become more accepting of demons.
Close Moment
Something gets in Banxia's eye, and Xuanye helps her remove it, creating a moment that Chi Xue witnesses and misinterprets as a kiss. Banxia is pleased by Xuanye's concern.
Jealousy
Chi Xue confronts Jiu Xuanye, accusing him of kissing Duan Banxia. Xuanye denies it, but Chi Xue claims to see Xuanye's feelings for Banxia, comparing it to his father's love for his mother.
Future Plans
Duan Banxia brings snacks to Feng Wuniang and asks about Duan Yanqiu. Wuniang says he's been there a while, like many who come to hide. She envies Banxia's family and wonders if she can visit Banxia in the future, as she plans to escape eventually.
