The ongoing Chinese drama The Princess Royal featuring Zhao Jinmai and Zhang Linghe released episode 18 on July 4, 2024. The show became one of the few to secure the highest reservations even before airing. As seen in the first episode follows the story of Li Rong (Zhao Jinmai) and Pei Wenxuan (Zhang Linghe), who marry each other at a young age, but conspirators turn them against each other, resulting in their deaths. Episode 18 focuses on Wenxuan’s unexpected return.
In this episode, Li Rong sits with Su Rongqing as he confesses his feelings to her. Meanwhile, her maid informs her that the prince’s consort has returned. Li Rong, who previously thought that her husband had passed away, is taken aback by the news. Her happiness knows no bounds, and she sheds tears of joy. On the other hand, Su Rongqing’s face drops as soon as he hears the news.
Li Rong asks her maid to send men to guard the imperial hall. As soon as the Qin family is pardoned, guards must clear the royal path so that the decree bearer can reach the execution site safely. Rongqing asks the princess to forget about his confession.
The Princess Royal episode 18 spoilers
Meanwhile, the censor attempts to execute the Qin family, even before receiving the royal decree. But just when the executors are going to behead them, Xun Chuan stops them by shooting an arrow and also frees the family members. A fight breaks out between her and Wei Ping’s men. But the ruckus successfully delays the execution, and the decree bearer reaches the site, bearing news that the Emperor has ordered the halt of the process.
Wenxuan submits the information and evidence he has obtained to the Emperor. He has visited county offices and has transcribed records of the provisions and funds in transit. Furthermore, he talked with the common people and soldiers and recorded their testimonies about the war.
Zhao Jinmai reunites with Zhang Linghe
Many people died of disease and starvation even before the war started. He has gathered evidence that the Qin family successfully evicted people to avoid further calamities. Wenxuan urges the emperor to investigate the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Finance, and the censorate for embezzlement of military funds. His statement infuriates the officials present at the court. They accuse him of humiliating the prominent figures by making such a bold remark.
Rongqing tells Li Rong that he doesn’t want to become her enemy. Rather, he wants her to live a happy life. On his way out of the palace, he bumps into Wenxuan. He accuses him of scheming against him so he doesn’t get to be close to the princess. Rongqing reminds him that he won’t ever own the princess as she likes him.
As soon as Wenxuan reaches the palace, the princess runs outside to greet him. Although she hesitates when Wenxuan hugs her in front of everyone, she finally gives in.
What happens in The Princess Royal episode 18’s ending?
The Qin family personally visits the princess to express gratitude for saving their clan. They pledge their loyalty and allegiance to her. Li Rong advises Shangguan Ya to use this opportunity to rectify the Shangguan family.
When Wenxuan and Li Rong lay in bed together at night, she revealed how much she missed him. She forced herself to believe that he was alive even when rumors about his passing spread like wildfire. They reminisced about the good times they spent as newlyweds.
Wenxuan says he wants to give her all the joy in the world. He gets close to her and tries to kiss her, but Li Rong pushes him away.
The Princess Royal is available to stream on Youku and Viki throughout the week.
