The imperial medicine chamber, night. Yan Shu in her bride robes, examining a medicine bowl by candlelight while a physician sleeps at his desk.

Yan Shu traces the poison's source through palace records and kitchen access logs.

Yan Shu begins counter-poisoning. She works with herbs and compounds at her hidden desk.

Crown Prince Ruan learns his father is improving. His private chambers, angry reaction.

Yan Shu uses the emperor's improved health to forge documents. Her hidden workspace.

Yan Shu practices court etiquette using her sister's inherited memories.

Ruan arranges an 'accident' for the emperor. A servant receives instructions.

Yan Shu investigates after the near-accident. She examines the stairwell.

The vow-jade reacts to Ruan's threat. Yan Shu feels the pull intensify.

Ruan tries another approach — poisoned medicine. Yan Shu intercepts at the medicine preparation room.

Yan Shu remakes the medicine, substituting clean ingredients. Her chambers.

Yan Shu practices the ritual touch gesture. Her chambers, preparing for what's to come.