Episode Summary
In "Abyss Dweller" Episode 20, Liang Shuo narrowly avoids suspicion from Director Cui during a covert operation disguised as a medicine run, thanks to his driver Zhao Di's quick thinking. An internal investigation at headquarters, led by Takagi Yugi, puts everyone on edge. Later, at a tense dinner party, Director Cui interrogates Xie Nianci about her background. To build trust, she agrees to a business partnership with Mrs. Cui. The episode concludes with Liang Shuo confessing his disillusionment with the Military-Statistics Bureau to Xie Nianci, and the two resolve to seek a new path for their country together.
Spoiler Alert
"Abyss Dweller" Episode 20: A Close Call and a Dangerous Dinner
Recap & Spoilers for Episode 20 of "Abyss Dweller"
Tensions escalate as a mole hunt intensifies within the intelligence headquarters, forcing every agent to watch their back. In this high-stakes environment, Liang Shuo finds himself navigating a minefield of suspicion, while his relationship with Xie Nianci deepens, setting them on a new, shared path.
An Interrogation at the Pharmacy
The episode opens with Liang Shuo using a seemingly innocent errand—buying medicine for Director Cui’s wife—as cover for his clandestine activities. Just as he finishes sorting the items in his car, he is abruptly intercepted by Director Cui himself and a squad of agents. Cui immediately questions Liang Shuo's presence at the pharmacy, separating him from his driver, Zhao Di, for interrogation. However, Zhao Di remains perfectly calm under pressure, coolly explaining that their only purpose was to fetch the medicine for Mrs. Cui. His story is convincing enough that Director Cui backs down, claiming the stop was merely a "routine check." Unintimidated, Liang Shuo pointedly presses the bag of medicine into Cui’s chest before driving off, a small act of defiance that underscores the growing friction between them.
The Walls Close In
Meanwhile, back at headquarters, the investigation led by the ruthless Takagi Yugi is in full swing. Convinced that the operative who acted at the teahouse must be the superior of a deceased agent, Takagi orders a thorough review of all personnel who were off-site that day. Lu Xijian, still baffled by the identity of the person who warned him, finds himself caught in the dragnet.
Upon his return, Liang Shuo is immediately summoned for questioning. He is temporarily cleared when Director Cui vouches for him, confirming he was on a personal errand. However, Takagi Yugi remains suspicious, issuing a chilling warning to Liang Shuo to be "careful of those around you." He also cautions Director Cui not to let personal affairs interfere with official business, a clear sign that no one is above suspicion.
A Dinner Laced with Suspicion
Later, Director Cui makes an unexpected visit to Liang Shuo’s office. After a failed attempt to snoop through Liang Shuo’s files, he extends a dinner invitation, asking Liang Shuo to bring Xie Nianci to his home. The dinner is a classic "Hongmen Banquet"—a feast designed to be a trap.
Sensing the danger, Xie Nianci arrives with a deliberately altered appearance and subtly exchanges signals with Liang Shuo by holding his hand. While Mrs. Cui plays the part of a gracious hostess, Director Cui relentlessly probes Xie Nianci. He questions her about everything from her dietary habits to her family history and her reasons for staying in Shanghai. When Liang Shuo’s attempts to deflect the interrogation fail, Director Cui makes a startling proposal: he suggests Xie Nianci quit her job at a clothing store and go into the jewelry business with his wife. Seeing it as an opportunity to build trust, Xie Nianci agrees on the spot, much to Liang Shuo’s silent apprehension.
A New Path Forward
After their guests depart, Mrs. Cui chides her husband for his intense questioning. Director Cui defends his actions, explaining that he considers Liang Shuo a brother and therefore feels compelled to "clear any mines" around him. He admits that Xie Nianci's unhesitating acceptance of the business proposal has, ironically, lessened his suspicions.
Once clear of the Cui residence, Liang Shuo expresses his concern that Xie Nianci is getting drawn too deep into his dangerous world. She reassures him with a heartfelt declaration of her unwavering support. This emotional moment prompts Liang Shuo to make a stunning confession: he has lost faith in the Military-Statistics Bureau's ability to save China and is actively searching for a different path.
Deeply moved by his sincerity, Xie Nianci agrees to join him. As they walk together through the night, they make a date to see a new movie—a simple plan that symbolizes their profound, newfound commitment to exploring a new road together.
