Shadow

The kingdom of Pei suffers a devastating loss when the city of Jingzhou falls to the rival kingdom of Yang. This significant defeat is attributed to a high-profile duel between Commander Ziyu and the formidable Yang Cang, leading to widespread discontent in Pei.

Incensed by Ziyu's reckless challenge to Yang Cang for a rematch, the King of Pei demands that Ziyu and his wife perform before the court. In a defiant act of protest, Ziyu cuts off his hair, symbolizing his refusal to submit to the King's demands.

In an attempt to secure peace between Pei and Yang, the King decides to betroth his sister, Qingping, to Yang Cang's son, Yang Ping. This decision ignites further tension within the realm, revealing underlying issues regarding honor and pride.

A shocking revelation emerges that the Commander Ziyu is not who he seems; the real Ziyu lies severely injured in a cave. The man in Ziyu's place, Jingzhou, has taken on his identity with the blessings of Ziyu and his wife, Xiao Ai.

The King seeks to punish the impersonator, demoting him to the status of a commoner, despite objections from military leaders. This decision sets the stage for further escalations and reveals the tensions simmering beneath the surface.

Jingzhou trains hard with his unique metal umbrella weapon, facing challenges as he adapts to Ziyu's dueling style. Wielding the weapon rooted in femininity, he learns to turn his weaknesses into strengths under Xiao Ai's guidance.

Ziyu devises a cunning tactical plan to use Jingzhou in a bid to reclaim Jingzhou, aiming to keep Yang Cang distracted. Ziyu and Tian discuss how they can best utilize Jingzhou's skills to succeed in the upcoming conflict.

On the eve of the duel, Jingzhou confides in Xiao Ai, expressing his deep feelings for her. Their intimate moment is observed by Ziyu, highlighting the complex relationships and underlying emotions that complicate their mission.

Jingzhou arrives at Jingzhou City Pass on a floating platform, prepared for battle. A surprise attack is launched by Tian and the convicts hidden beneath, leading Jingzhou into a fierce duel against Yang Cang.

During the duel, Jingzhou claims victory in the first round but ultimately struggles against Yang Cang's superior skills. Despite a proposal for a draw, Jingzhou insists on finishing the fight to the death, showcasing his determination.

In the chaos, Yang Ping mortally wounds Qingping during their confrontation. As she expounds on her motives, she manages to kill him using a dagger intended for their wedding, marking a tragic turning point in the conflict.

Following Qingping's death, Yang Cang enraged, begins to demolish Jingzhou. Jingzhou transforms the tide of the battle by utilizing a newly learned technique that eventually leads him to strike down Yang Cang.

Upon returning to his childhood home, Jingzhou is confronted with the horrifying sight of his mother's murder. As he faces impending danger from assassins, a mysterious emissary intervenes, claiming to represent the King.

During a celebratory feast, the King attempts to recognize Jingzhou and Xiao Ai as a couple but is abruptly interrupted by a masked assassin. This assassin reveals himself to be Ziyu, leading to a chaotic confrontation with devastating consequences.

In a tense final showdown, Jingzhou is forced to make a catastrophic decision regarding Ziyu and the King. Ultimately, he uses Ziyu's weapon to kill the King, marking the end of a tumultuous reign and leaving him to face the consequences of his actions.