Maomao is tasked with solving the mystery of the so-called "curse," which involves the corpse of the deceased emperor remaining uncorrupted even after six years, before his former residence is demolished. During her investigation, she discovers that the emperor secretly practiced painting using toxic pigments made from auripigment, an arsenic-containing mineral. This poisonous substance caused the unusual preservation of his body after death.

At the same time, Lady Suiren provides Maomao with insights into Jinshi's strict childhood, during which even his favorite toys were denied to him in order to prepare him for his predestined role. Maomao finds a toxic stone that Jinshi had picked up as a child in the inner palace, suggesting an early unconscious exposure to auripigment.

This episode also centrally reveals Lady Anshi's past: She recounts how, as a young girl manipulated by her father, she deliberately formed a connection with the emperor to gain power and influence. She became pregnant and secretly gave birth to a son, who was officially recognized as the empress's grandson. The episode strongly implies that this son is Jinshi, a fact that had remained hidden until now. As the emperor lost interest in Anshi over time, she began tormenting him psychologically out of disappointment and wounded pride, ultimately leading to his complete withdrawal.

The episode ends with Anshi and Jinshi viewing a hidden painting once created by the emperor. Jinshi vaguely recognizes the figure of his mother in it, implicitly confirming that it is Anshi. At the same time, Anshi acknowledges Jinshi's feelings for Maomao and warns him against openly displaying his affection to avoid future suffering.