Qing Chen is revealed as an imposter but the leader of the dark sorceress, Ding Shui, warns Minister Feng to keep her close. Meanwhile, Yuan Ling chases an assassin back to the palace.

Qing Chen sides with Yuan Ming to find and defeat his wife's murderer. The two prepare a banquet in commemoration of the late Empress, and the dark sorceress waits an opportunity to strike.

Qing Chen proves the mages and meandering skies innocent to the emperor. The dark sorceress reveals herself and strikes Qing Chen, but critically injures Yuan Ling.