With Liu Che’s long absence from the palace, Zhao Ji urges Zifu to start a new life away from palace. Zifu decides to leave and return peace to the royal family. With the easing of the famine, Duan Hong proposes to Liu Che that they return to the palace. Frustrated with state affairs and Chen Jie’s interference, Liu Che considers allowing Zifu to leave. But when they meet at the palace gates, they reaffirm their vows to one another. Zifu presents Liu Che with a map of the Han Dynasty, inspiring him to launch policy reforms for the good of his people. Much to his frustration, many nobles and officials oppose the reforms. He locks himself in Lanlin Palace. (Source: Viu)