[ Episode Eighteen ] [ Masterpost ] [ Episode Twenty ]
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The cage-fighting case concludes and the Zhu Jiu arc reaches a turning point. Featuring over-protective Shen Wei, an awkward talk between love rivals, and teamwork.
Zhao Yunlan vs Hallows (Again)
The first time we see Zhao Yunlan this episode, he's getting tempted by the Hallows again.
The Hallows giving the One Ring a run for its money.
Before Zhao Yunlan grabs the Hallows, he does at least have one moment's hesitation where he remembers Shen Wei warning him of the dangers. Then he grabs it anyway, experiences a vision, and passes out on the floor.
Pictured: A groggy Zhao Yunlan who doesn't yet realize how much shit he's in. And an absolutely furious Shen Wei.
I love how Shen Wei goes from quietly pissed off to horrified when he sees Zhao Yunlan with a nosebleed.
How was this not a pre-cursor to angry/relieved "I can't believe you were so reckless but I'm so glad you're okay now" make-out session?
Really appreciating how nicely Shen Wei just slots in between Zhao Yunlan's legs. And that knee touch.
Shen Wei vents his anger on the ladder in the room. And man, you don't even see him this worked up after an actual fight with a baddie.
Right into Zhao Yunlan's personal space (and between his legs) again.
There's a Chinese word, 耍赖, that's perfect for what Zhao Yunlan is doing here. Shamelessly trying to act all nonchalant like it's no big deal and that he hasn't done anything wrong. Somehow, this manages to work on Shen Wei as you see him calming down and even cracking the beginning of a smile.
Plot development! Zhao Yunlan tells Shen Wei about the dream/vision he had where Chu Shuzhi, Guo Changcheng, and Ye Huo all died. Shen Wei speculates it could be a prophetic vision based on his research into how dark energy interacts with Haixingren.
Ransom Demand
Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan make a synchronized entrance to the main office of the SID to check up on Chu Shuzhi and Guo Changcheng. As expected, they haven't been able to get in touch with either of them. And then they receive a video call from Zhu Jiu.
An excellent bit of silent communication between Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan while Zhu Jiu is giving his villain speech.
Afterwards, Zhao Yunlan gets an idea! And he sends out the assignments.
I love how much trust Zhao Yunlan put into a gesture as simple as a nod.
An Awkward Chat Between Rivals
Shen Wei takes Zhu Hong with him to talk to her fourth uncle. Along the way, they have a chat about Zhao Yunlan.
Shen Wei, who waited for Zhao Yunlan for 10,000 years: I don't know much about love, but I'm sure that you'll get over Zhao Yunlan in at most 3 years.
Even Zhu Hong, not an immortal, thinks that estimate is low. She laments whether long-lasting affection still exists. Like Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan's "friendship," going through thick and thin for each other.
Capturing Zhu Jiu
Shen Wei, Zhao Yunlan, and Zhu Hong next head to the rooftops for their rendez-vous with Zhu Jiu.
Especially in light of Zhu Hong and Shen Wei's previous conversation, it's amazing how clearly they're laying out the result of the love triangle, with Zhu Hong trailing behind them both as they walk in unison.
No words are needed. Let's do this!
Discount Bat Signal: Go!
Once they've lured Zhu Jiu to the roof, Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan face off against him. Zhu Jiu spends a little too long monologuing, giving Zhao Yunlan time to send out the signal to the SID team to cut the power.
Once the lights are out and everyone else's parts are done, it's Shen Wei's turn to jump into action. The episode ends on this super bad-ass moment of teamwork and coordination with the entire SID crew.
[ Episode Eighteen ] [ Masterpost ] [ Episode Twenty ]
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