Episode Summary
Luo Lingyu goes undercover at Prince Changyi's residence to spy on Mr. Kong, while Lu Yun pretends to be drunk to interact with Chen Xiu and warn her about corruption. Jealousy arises between Lu Yun and Luo Lingyu due to their respective interactions. Lingyu discovers a list of names, revealing a plot to infiltrate the government. The Emperor appoints Lu Yun to investigate corruption, and Chen Hao plots to use Lu Yun as a pawn. Lu Yun, Luo Lingyu, and Prince Changyi decide to use Chen Hao's marriage proposal as a trap, with Chen Xiu agreeing to cooperate.
Spoiler Alert
In "Les Belles" Episode 21, the intrigue deepens as Luo Lingyu takes on a risky undercover mission. To gather evidence, she poses as the fiancée of Prince Changyi, allowing her to move freely within his residence and observe the suspicious Mr. Kong. Meanwhile, Prince Hengyang plays his part by gathering his men under the guise of military discussions, creating a diversion to aid Lingyu's investigation.
Mr. Kong's suspicions are aroused, however, and he rushes to his study after hearing that Lingyu had been seen there. He carefully examines a crucial scroll, seemingly relieved to find it undisturbed. Back at Prince Hengyang's residence, he finds Lingyu distributing pastries, with Prince Hengyang acting affectionately towards her, creating an illusion of normalcy that leaves Mr. Kong questioning his own doubts.
On another front, Lu Yun initiates his own plan. He feigns drunkenness in front of Chen Hao's carriage, leading to an encounter with Chen Xiu, who has long admired Lu Yun. Chen Xiu brings the seemingly intoxicated Lu Yun into the carriage, where he pointedly warns her against protecting those involved in corruption, emphasizing the severe consequences.
Later, a tense scene unfolds at the Lu residence. Prince Hengyang escorts Lingyu home just as Lu Yun and Chen Xiu arrive together in the Lu family carriage. Lingyu's jealousy flares at their apparent closeness, prompting Prince Hengyang to pointedly hold her hand, adding to Lu Yun's own jealous frustration.
Lingyu's investigation proves fruitful as she discovers a list of four names in the study. Prince Changyi recognizes them as candidates for the position of Imperial Censor, realizing that Beichu spies are infiltrating key government positions. Zhou Yangling suggests examining the candidates' exam papers for clues, hoping to expose the conspiracy.
The next day, the Emperor announces the new Imperial Censor appointments, surprisingly including the usually frivolous Lu Yun. The Emperor reveals his awareness of corrupt officials selling government positions and charges Lu Yun with uncovering the truth.
Chen Hao, eager to recruit Lu Yun as an ally, approaches him after the court session, highlighting his close relationship with Chen Xiu and promising to aid Lu Yun's career. Lu Yun remains noncommittal, aware of Chen Hao's hidden motives. Chen Hao later discusses his plan with Mr. Kong, revealing his intention to use Lu Yun as a pawn and eliminate him if their activities are exposed. Mr. Kong is hesitant but Chen Hao is confident, saying that having Lu Yun as an insider will make it easier to control him and, if necessary, frame him for their crimes.
Prince Changyi and Lu Yun discuss the situation, suspecting Chen Hao's marriage proposal is a trap. They decide to use the situation to their advantage, luring out the enemy. Lu Yun seeks Lingyu's approval, which she readily gives, prioritizing the investigation. He then asks for Chen Xiu's cooperation, and she tearfully agrees, torn between her loyalty to her father and her duty to her people.
