Ch. 921Empress Su Suddenly Falls Gravely Ill
Key Plot Points and Events
- King Zhou and Yun Zhongzi spar, leading to Daji's sudden illness.
- Daji falls ill after seeing a sword gifted by Yun Zhongzi, which she believes is causing her harm.
- King Zhou, infatuated with Daji, removes the sword, unknowingly releasing the fox demon's spirit.
- Yun Zhongzi leaves Chaoge, foreseeing the impending calamity and change of dynasties.
- Du Yuanxian observes celestial signs warning of disaster and writes a memorial to remonstrate with King Zhou.
- Shang Rong and Du Yuanxian present the memorial to King Zhou, urging him to address the state's peril.
Character Developments
- King Zhou: Becomes increasingly infatuated with Daji, neglecting state affairs, and is easily deceived by Yun Zhongzi.
- Daji: Falls ill due to the sword's influence, revealing her true form to King Zhou.
- Yun Zhongzi: Leaves Chaoge after foreseeing the calamity, setting the stage for future events.
- Du Yuanxian: Observes celestial signs, writes a memorial, and actively tries to save the state.
- Shang Rong: Supports Du Yuanxian, presents the memorial to King Zhou, and tries to wake him from his folly.
Significant Themes
- The decline of the Shang Dynasty due to King Zhou's misrule and infatuation with Daji.
- The impending calamity and change of dynasties, foreshadowed by celestial signs.
- The struggle between loyalty and corruption, with upright officials trying to save the state.
Character Interactions
- King Zhou and Daji: Their relationship deepens, with King Zhou prioritizing Daji's well-being over state affairs.
- King Zhou and Yun Zhongzi: Their interaction leads to Daji's illness and the release of the fox demon's spirit.
- Du Yuanxian and Shang Rong: They collaborate to write and present a memorial to King Zhou, trying to save the state.
- The officials and King Zhou: The officials are worried about the state's peril and try to remonstrate with King Zhou, but he remains unmoved.