Wanlin returns to the cold-storage cave beneath Heron-Cliff Peak, moving from public mask into private fear.

Wanlin checks that Qin Mo is absent and approaches Wanqing's ice slab.

Qin Luo reveals himself in the cave and uses Wanlin's true name.

Wanlin tries to deny Qin Luo's accusation, but the copied manual pages make the threat real.

Qin Luo proves he knows the cold-storage records by reciting hidden details.

Wanlin pins Qin Luo and demands the source of his knowledge.

Qin Luo explains his role in the corpse stamp and why he stayed silent.

Qin Luo admits he stole access to the restricted manual.

Qin Luo explains that he sold the diagrams to pay for his mother's spirit-illness treatment.

Qin Luo says Wanqing discovered the theft trail before she died and denies pushing her.

Wanlin reacts to Qin Luo's denial and the limits of what she can prove.

Qin Luo explains how the Tribunal ledger can accept a corrected confession.

Qin Luo explains why he needs Wanlin to sign as Wanqing.

Qin Luo states his condition: the confession must erase his mother's debt and put punishment on him alone.

Wanlin tests whether Qin Luo truly knows what Wanqing discovered, not just what is in the public accusation.

Qin Luo's reaction proves the confession is real, but it also deepens Wanlin's grief.

Wanlin identifies the dangerous limitation: the Tribunal could demand wording that traps Wanqing again.

Qin Luo offers to be both thief and binding witness through self-incriminating proof.

Wanlin confronts the fact that Qin Luo can expose her identity at any time.

Wanlin looks at Wanqing's body and understands the alternative to Qin Luo's bargain.

Wanlin agrees to the bargain but dictates strict wording to protect Wanqing and Qin Luo's mother.

Qin Luo warns Wanlin that Lan Xiyan is looking into old signature rolls.

Wanlin realizes the duel taught Xiyan where to search for Water-line evidence.

Qin Luo leaves, and Wanlin remains with Wanqing's body, committed to the bargain but afraid of the brushstroke ahead.