Episode Summary
Nan Fengyi offers to train Meng Xizhou in magic in exchange for her help as a cover, and she agrees when he promises a salary. Their plans are complicated by Situ Hanshan's escape and the Emperor's decision to transfer the case to the Celestial Master's Residence. Meng Xizhou seeks to join the Celestial Master's Residence but must pass an exam. With Fifth Uncle's blessing, she moves into Nan Manor and begins preparing for the test.
Spoiler Alert
This episode sees big developments for Meng Xizhou and Nan Fengyi, with their relationship taking a significant turn. Nan Fengyi asks Meng Xizhou if she wants him to become her master. Overjoyed, Meng Xizhou questions if he's serious. Nan Fengyi explains he can teach her magic, but he needs her help as a cover. Slightly disappointed, Meng Xizhou realizes he wants her as a long-term shield, not just a student. However, Nan Fengyi sweetens the deal: he'll pay her a salary and teach her all his magic. The promise of wages instantly wins her over, and Nan Fengyi suggests she move in the next day to facilitate their training. Meng Xizhou is taken aback, but he clarifies it's for practical reasons.
Meng Xizhou expresses concern about her Fifth Uncle's approval and Nan Sixu's (Nan Fengyi's brother) poor first impression of her. Nan Fengyi brushes it off, promising to deal with it later, and proceeds to teach her a paper doll spell. To his surprise, she masters it quickly, proving she has some natural talent. Later, Meng Xizhou finds a handkerchief filled with rock candy beside her bed, a sweet gesture that hints at a budding romance.
The next morning, Nan Fengyi overhears Nan Sixu and others discussing the umbrella case. News breaks that Situ Hanshan has escaped, and Ministry of Justice orders a curfew. Nan Sixu, seeing Nan Fengyi, immediately asks if Meng Xizhou can truly help him regain his powers. Nan Fengyi confirms it, prompting Nan Sixu to enthusiastically suggest she move in immediately. When Nan Fengyi questions his sudden change of heart about being near women, Nan Sixu assures him he'll protect his "Virgin Male Body." Meng Xizhou arrives, and Nan Sixu, flustered, apologizes for their previous awkward encounter.
Their conversation is interrupted by a summons from the Emperor. Expecting good news, they're shocked when the Emperor transfers Situ Hanshan's case files to the Celestial Master's Residence, prioritizing demon-hunting. Nan Fengyi, understanding the Emperor's decision, accepts it. Meng Xizhou, however, protests, highlighting Nan Fengyi's dedication to the case, even while imprisoned. The Emperor compromises, allowing Ministry of Justice to assist. Meng Xizhou then requests to join the Celestial Master's Residence, citing her Demon-Discerning Eyes. Du Yuelian from the Celestial Master's Residence objects, stating that Meng Xizhou must pass the entrance exam, despite her special ability.
The Emperor agrees, setting the exam for the very next day. Nan Fengyi and Meng Xizhou visit Fifth Uncle's shop, finding it swarmed with people. Dan Qian explains that word of Meng Xizhou's demon-catching abilities has spread throughout Changle City, and everyone wants her help. Fifth Uncle, seeing the pair, dismisses the crowd, claiming they're closed for the day. Inside, Meng Xizhou discovers her belongings already packed. Fifth Uncle enthusiastically supports her opportunity, seeing it as a chance for her to secure a stable career, something their family lacks.
Finally, Meng Xizhou and Nan Fengyi arrive at Nan Manor. Hesitant at the entrance, she fears being rejected by Nan Sixu again. To her surprise, she's greeted with a lavish feast. Nan Sixu explains it was prepared by Wang Niangzi, a neighbor, who then leaves, saying that they are a family. After dinner, Meng Xizhou studies the book Nan Fengyi gave her, practicing magic in preparation for the Celestial Master's Residence exam.
