Episode Summary
"Les Belles" Episode 19 sees Lu Yun and Luo Lingyu confess their feelings for each other, culminating in a kiss. Luo Lingyu rejects Prince Hengyang's affections, explaining that her feelings for him are not romantic. Both Lu Yun and Luo Lingyu, along with Prince Hengyang, petition the Emperor to dissolve the arranged marriage. The Emperor agrees, and Luo Lingyu proposes using her position to help Lu Yun investigate his father's death.
Spoiler Alert
In Episode 19 of "Les Belles," Lu Yun is unwavering in his determination to uncover the truth about his father's wrongful death in battle, a mission fraught with peril. Luo Lingyu, witnessing his resolve, recognizes a kindred spirit in him—someone who confronts adversity head-on. Lu Yun previously acquired a list, and he's convinced that obtaining a detailed roster from Beichu will confirm his suspicions.
Seizing the moment, Lu Yun wants to declare his feelings. Luo Lingyu, after careful consideration under a grapevine, doesn't stop him. When Lu Yun pours out his heart, Luo Lingyu responds without hesitation, revealing that she feels the same way and has someone she deeply cares about. The air thickens with romance, and they share a sweet kiss beneath the grapevines.
Luo Lingyu then arranges a private meeting with Prince Hengyang, who is thrilled by this unprecedented invitation. He orders his attendants to prepare his attire for the meeting. However, his attendants caution him, noting Luo Lingyu's hesitations about marriage and hinting at possible complications. Prince Hengyang, recalling Luo Lingyu's recent behavior, steels himself for any outcome, determined to fight for her.
At the Lu residence, Luo Lingyu awaits Prince Hengyang. Before she can speak, he reminisces about their first encounter at the Lu family's entrance, recalling how she bravely shielded him from a startled horse. He recounts their history, demonstrating his deep affection. Becoming a royal consort is a coveted position, and Luo Lingyu acknowledges Prince Hengyang's noble character and suitability as a husband. However, she confesses that her feelings for him aren't romantic. Prince Hengyang is saddened, musing that if they had met earlier, perhaps Lu Yun wouldn't have won her heart.
Luo Lingyu clarifies that timing isn't the issue; even if they had met in the Northern Territory, the distinguished Prince Hengyang might not have encountered her. Though she's rejecting an excellent marriage prospect, she has no regrets. As they part at the Lu residence gate, fireworks suddenly light up the sky. Luo Lingyu turns, smiling at Prince Hengyang, as radiant as their first meeting.
Lu Yun seeks an audience with the Emperor, deciding to enter officialdom. Previously rejecting the Emperor's offers, he now steps forward to investigate his father's death and requests the annulment of Prince Hengyang's marriage contract. The Emperor, questioning if this is a negotiation, reminds him that imperial decrees are not easily revoked and that Lu Yun's words alone don't represent Luo Lingyu's wishes. He summons Luo Lingyu to the palace.
Luo Lingyu confirms Lu Yun's statements, angering the Emperor, who is unaccustomed to having a marriage proposal rejected, especially given his son's military prowess. Luo Lingyu eloquently argues, referencing the Flower God Festival, that one must consider others' feelings, not just one's own desires.
Concurrently, Prince Hengyang arrives at the palace, willing to protect Luo Lingyu from any potential imperial wrath. He leverages his military achievements, urging the Emperor to rescind the marriage order. The Emperor respects their wishes. Luo Lingyu then proposes maintaining appearances, using her status as the prospective princess to discreetly aid Lu Yun's investigation within the military.
