Maomao is placed in a warehouse by Hongniang as "punishment" for a lizard-related prank. While dealing with rumors about a mysterious "beetle collector," she encounters Shishui, who shares her knowledge of insects. Both observe the Empress Dowager, who appears to be visiting the clinic—a hint at potential reforms to the medical system.



Later, Maomao is personally approached by the Empress Dowager, who asks for her help based on Suiren's recommendation: she is to determine whether the late Emperor was killed by a curse she cast. During a tea gathering of high-ranking consorts, Maomao takes over poison testing and reassures Hongniang of her loyalty to Gyokuyou.



An attendant of the Empress Dowager leads Maomao to the chambers of the late Empress Mother and reveals that her body—unlike that of the late Emperor—has not decayed. This strengthens suspicions of an unnatural death. The episode ends with Maomao demanding compensation before delving deeper into the investigation.