General Zhao Jian of Daliang married down to Lin Rui and bore a daughter named Lin Shu. During a smallpox outbreak in the capital, Lin Rui extracted Lin Shu's heart-blood to save his illegitimate son, resulting in her death, which drove Zhao Jian to seek vengeance. She discovers Jiang Rou's true identity and a hidden conspiracy. With Xiao Xun's assistance, they expose the truth, leading Lin Rui to commit suicide. When the northern border comes under imminent threat, Zhao Jian leads a military campaign with Xiao Xun accompanying her.