The storm over the impeachment of the heir eventually passes and so to gain favor with the emperor, the princes suggest that they accompany the emperor on a trip out of the palace. The emperor commands the Yinsi to remain behind to administer to the affairs of state. In fact, it is a ploy by the heir to reduce the power of Yinsi's faction and to make the prince a scapegoat in the event of anything going awry while the emperor is away. The infighting amongst the brothers becomes increasingly apparent. Yinzhen brings Ruoxi along for the trip with the emperor, suggesting that she bring some more tea and be careful. As he has to remain behind to administer to the affairs of state, Yinsi forlornly bids Ruoxi farewell. Yinsi finds out that it was Minghui's interference that caused Ruoxi to be unable to serve any of the concubines. As a result, he ignores Minghui who begs his forgiveness and promises never to do anything to displease him again. Meanwhile, Ruoxi, as part of her tea serving duties, delivers tea to the emperor and the princes in individually selected cups bringing praise from all. Ruoxi then requests that the emperor permit her to learn horse riding, which he happily permits. Yinxiang meets Mongolian Princess Minmin at the goat roping arena and become friends, but neither knows of the others' birthright. However, that night the emperor orders that a party be held and while performing, Minmin sees Yinxiang, who had introduced himself as "Little Star" at the arena. To her surprise, he speaks to her in Mongolian and an attraction begins to grow between them. Ruoxi convinces Yinxiang to teach her horse riding and the two agree to meet that night. Yinsi had arranged for a full set of riding attire to be delivered to Ruoxi and so wearing the prince's gift, Ruoxi waits on the steppe for Yinxiang, but in a twist, it is Yinzhen who appears to teach her and the ensuing lesson leaves Ruoxi completely exhausted.
