Episode Summary
Zhu Ziyu's plot to separate from Jiang Yi is exposed, revealing his affair with Cui Mingyue and his manipulative nature. Jiang Si orchestrates a public confrontation, leading to Jiang Yi's decision to leave Zhu Ziyu. Jiang Si also frees Yu'er and helps her and Qing'er find refuge. The episode ends with a flashback to Jiang Si's past life, where she avenged Yu Qi and her family by killing the Grand Princess.
Spoiler Alert
This episode of "Si Jin" is packed with drama, betrayal, and revenge! We finally see Zhu Ziyu's true colors, and Jiang Si masterfully exposes his schemes.
The episode opens with a look into Madam Zhu's feelings towards Jiang Yi. It turns out her dislike isn't about Jiang Yi herself, but rather jealousy over Zhu Ziyu's obvious preference for her. Zhu Ziyu, hoping to maintain his "nice guy" image, had planned to use his mother to force a separation. He even suggests that Jiang Si's continued presence is a problem for his relationship with Jiang Yi, hoping Madam Zhu will get rid of Jiang Si, as all his other attempts to get rid of Jiang Yi have been thwarted by Jiang Si.
Meanwhile, Jiang Si, having rescued Qing'er, now has an ally who can expose Zhu Ziyu's true nature. Qing'er, seeing Zhu Ziyu for who he really is, decides to help Jiang Si. Through Qing'er, Jiang Si intercepts a letter from Yu'er (sent by Zhu Ziyu) to a mysterious noblewoman. Jiang Si uses this information to orchestrate a confrontation, bringing Zhu Ziyu and his secret backer together. She also uses Meng Nan to spread rumors, ensuring a large audience for the drama to unfold.
The big reveal? Zhu Ziyu's secret collaborator is none other than Cui Mingyue! At their meeting place, Zhu Ziyu assures Cui Mingyue that he'll find a way to divorce Jiang Yi, though he complains about Jiang Si and Yu Qi making things difficult. He even promises to get rid of Qing'er and Yu'er once his plan is complete. Little does he know, Jiang Si and others are listening in.
Meng Nan then arrives with a crowd, trapping Zhu Ziyu and Cui Mingyue. Cui Mingyue tries to hide her face, and Zhu Ziyu lies, claiming she's his wife. But Jiang Si dramatically appears with Jiang Yi, exposing the lie. Cui Mingyue's veil is ripped away, revealing her identity to everyone. Just as Cui Mingyue is cornered, the Grand Princess arrives. Cui Mingyue quickly shifts the blame to Zhu Ziyu, claiming he deceived her. The Grand Princess attempts to take Cui Mingyue away, but Jiang Si tries to stop her. When the Grand Princess threatens Jiang Si, Yu Qi steps in to protect her. Despite the confrontation, the Grand Princess escapes.
With Zhu Ziyu's treachery fully exposed, Jiang Yi is resolute in seeking a separation. Even Zhu Ziyu's parents, who initially felt guilty towards Jiang Yi, are shocked by his callousness. He agrees to the separation, even abandoning his own child, to avoid a public trial that could damage his reputation. Zhu Ziyu's father is furious, blaming Madam Zhu for spoiling their son.
Jiang Si gives Yu'er her deed of indenture, freeing her. Later that night, Yu Qi ambushes Zhu Ziyu, beating him and demanding he hand over incriminating letters. After Yu Qi leaves, Cui Mingyue arrives and further humiliates Zhu Ziyu, treating him like a dog. He finally realizes he was just a pawn in her game. With his life in ruins, he hands over the letters to Cui Mingyue.
In a kind gesture, Jiang Si arranges for Qing'er and Yu'er to join the Caiyun Troupe, ensuring their safety and asking Fei Niang to look after them. Fei Niang gives Jiang Si a portrait of her mother, revealing that Jiang Si's mother had once saved her. Jiang Si, Jiang Yi, and Yanyan then return to the Jiang family home. The Jiang matriarch, upon learning everything, scolds Jiang Si for acting without consulting the family.
The episode closes with Jiang Si reflecting on her past life. She recalls fleeing to Southern Wu and learning of Yu Qi's death at the hands of the Grand Princess. Driven by grief and the loss of her family, who were also persecuted by the Grand Princess, she joined the Southern Wu army, invaded the Zhou Dynasty palace, and personally killed the Grand Princess to avenge her loved ones and Yu Qi.
