Episode Summary
In this episode, Duo Yuanhua and Mu Wuyin execute a multi-layered plot targeting their primary adversaries. Jiang Taohua is lured toward a trap in Luo City with her brother's life as bait; she attempts to protect Shen Zaiye by facing the danger alone, but he insists on following her. Simultaneously, Mu Wuxia is dispatched by the King on what he believes is a genuine military mission to gain experience, unaware that he is being led into a carefully orchestrated ambush.
Spoiler Alert
"The Princess's Gambit" Episode 28: A Tangled Web of Plots
With the imperial examinations concluded, the King of Qi is highly satisfied with Mu Wuxia's selection of the talented Li Dian as the top scholar. This has significantly improved the King's perception of Mu Wuxia, though he still considers him too soft and lacking a killer instinct. Consort Lan advises the King that Mu Wuxia simply needs more practical experience to toughen up, a sentiment with which the King wholeheartedly agrees.
Meanwhile, a complex scheme is set in motion. After withdrawing from the examinations, Mu Wuyin grows anxious when his letters to Duo Yuanhua go unanswered, fearing he has disappointed her. However, Duo Yuanhua is furious after learning that Shen Zaiye is investigating her associate, "Ah Hua." She devises a plan to lure Mu Wuxia, Jiang Taohua, and Shen Zaiye into a single trap to eliminate them all. The plot begins with spies disguised as bandits creating civil unrest, correctly predicting that the King will dispatch Mu Wuxia to handle the situation for the sake of experience. Duo Yuanhua also intends to use Jiang Changjue as a pawn in her dangerous game.
Qingtai locates Jiang Changjue, finding him dressed as a guard but effectively imprisoned. In a brutal move ordered by Duo Yuanhua, the commander Deng Xiao cuts off one of Jiang Changjue's fingers as punishment for a supposed military infraction and places him under strict confinement.
Mu Wuyin delivers the severed finger to Jiang Taohua. The sight triggers a painful childhood memory, and she is told that her brother is to be executed. Mu Wuyin "advises" her to go with Shen Zaiye to see him one last time, otherwise she will only be able to collect his corpse. Jiang Taohua immediately realizes that Shen Zaiye is the true target of the plot.Desperate to protect him, she rides off alone, but Shen Zaiye learns of her departure and quickly gives chase.
When he catches up, Jiang Taohua tries to drive him away by revealing she has regained her memories and recounting the suffering he has caused her. But Shen Zaiye refuses to leave her side, vowing to overcome any obstacle for her and declaring that he already considers her brother, Jiang Changjue, as his own. His unwavering persistence leaves Jiang Taohua unable to refuse his company.
Seeing his plan to ensnare Shen Zaiye succeeding, Mu Wuyin turns his attention to Mu Wuxia. He subtly manipulates the King by praising Mu Wuxia's intellect while pointing out his weakness in martial affairs. This reinforces the King's decision to send Mu Wuxia to quell the "bandits." The King sees this as a vital opportunity for his son to earn military merit and promises him great responsibility upon his safe return. However, the King has a secret plan: he has given a confidential letter to his general, Dong Lang, placing him in true command. The mission is merely a carefully managed exercise to bolster Mu Wuxia's reputation.
Xiang Qingying insists on accompanying Mu Wuxia but is refused. Undeterred, she disguises herself as a soldier and joins his departing troops the next day. Initially wanting to send her back, Mu Wuxia ultimately relents out of concern for her safety and keeps her by his side as a personal guard. As they march on, Mu Wuyin releases a carrier pigeon, informing Duo Yuanhua that the next phase of her trap is underway. Duo Yuanhua then gives orders to lure Mu Wuxia's forces toward the city of Luo.
As the various parties converge, Jiang Changjue suddenly disappears from his confinement, and his commander, Deng Xiao, launches a frantic search. Near Luo City, Shen Zaiye's devoted care for Jiang Taohua only strengthens her resolve not to involve him in the danger ahead. While he is away gathering firewood, she takes both their horses and rides away alone. Upon entering Luo City, Jiang Taohua is immediately spotted by her enemies, who lie in wait to spring their trap.
