After the turmoil brought on by the enchantment of the Fox Demon on the Scholar subsides, the capital city returns to its former prosperity and bustle. Empress Wu, in high spirits, decides to hold a hunting event, inviting nobles and skilled warriors from the common folk to come together and engage in equestrian archery competitions. The Tuyuhun Khan Murong Ji, too, is invited but finds himself suspect in a conspiracy to assassinate the Empress due to a series of unfortunate events. With no way out, Murong Ji seeks Pei Kun, hoping that he can assist in finding the true culprit and clear his name.