Episode Summary
Xu Qi'an exposes and defeats the Duke of Zhenbei, who is revealed to be a mass murderer, using the Nation-Stabilizing Sword. He then kills the Kui tribe leader. Exhausted, Xu Qi'an recovers with the help of allies. The episode ends with a political dilemma as Xu Qi'an and others plan to inform the Emperor of the Duke's crimes, facing potential disbelief and a race against a rival's distorted narrative. General Li commits suicide before he can help.
Spoiler Alert
In episode 36 of "Guardians of the Dafeng," Xu Qi'an faces a critical showdown. He instructs Li Miaozhen to alert the capital, while he focuses on protecting Zheng Xinghuai. The episode takes a dark turn as Xu Qi'an, fueled by the massacre of innocent civilians, confronts the Duke of Zhenbei (Duke of Zhenbei). He witnesses the horrifying blood spirits of the slaughtered, a stark contrast to the Duke's claims of acting for the nation's stability. The Duke, even facing death, continues his deception, trying to persuade Xu Qi'an.
The tension escalates as Xu Qi'an summons his inner power, the scene unfolding in the sky for all to see, including the Duke's soldiers. This public display shakes the soldiers' loyalty as they realize their leader is a mass murderer. Amidst the chaos, Xu Qi'an uses the Nation-Stabilizing Sword, a weapon that can judge a person's heart. The Duke, forced to take the sword, is violently repelled, confirming his evil nature to everyone. Xu Qi'an then delivers a fatal blow with the sword. In his dying breath, the Duke reveals his contempt for the common people, whom he considers "ants."
The action doesn't stop there. Xu Qi'an, recognizing the ongoing threat, confronts the Kui tribe leader. With a single, powerful strike, he defeats the leader, sealing him away in a jade mirror. This decisive victory comes at a cost, leaving Xu Qi'an utterly exhausted. Li Miaozhen finds him collapsed, and he later awakens under the care of Su Su, aided by Zhu Yang and Yang Yan, who help restore his energy.
The episode concludes with political intrigue. Xu Qi'an and several ministers strategize on how to inform Emperor Jing (Jing Di) about the Duke's treachery. The Duke and the Emperor had a close relationship, and the Duke was well-liked by the populace. It is uncertain if the Emperor will believe them. Xu Qi'an urges them not to lose heart. The matter is complicated because Que Yongxiu is still alive and might reach the Emperor first with a twisted version of events. Li Miaozhen suggests that General Li accompany them to the palace, but the general, overcome with guilt, commits suicide before they can depart.
