After reviving Xu Xian, Bai Suzhen's love for him only deepens. Despite knowing the risks, they decide to marry and settle down in Hangzhou. Their medicine shop flourishes, and they live happily for years, surrounded by the beauty of West Lake.
However, their bliss is short-lived. Fahai, determined to separate the couple, spreads rumors about Bai Suzhen's true nature. The locals begin to fear and ostracize her, whispering among themselves about the "snake demon" living in their midst.
One day, Fahai approaches Xu Xian, revealing Bai Suzhen's serpent form and claiming she's a demon threatening humanity. Fahai convinces Xu Xian that Bai Suzhen's powers are too great for a mortal to handle and that she will eventually bring destruction upon the city.
"Your wife may seem loving and devoted," Fahai warns, "but she is a monster, Xu Xian. You must protect yourself and your community."
Xu Xian is torn. He loves Bai Suzhen deeply, but Fahai's words sow seeds of doubt. Unbeknownst to Xu Xian, Fahai has an ulterior motive: to gain control over the magical energies surrounding West Lake.
As the Dragon Boat Festival approaches, Fahai presses Xu Xian to take action. He convinces Xu Xian to give Bai Suzhen the realgar wine, promising it will protect him from her "evil powers."
"Trust me, Xu Xian," Fahai assures. "This wine will ensure your safety and the safety of those around you."
Unbeknownst to Xu Xian, this wine will actually weaken Bai Suzhen's magical abilities, making her vulnerable to Fahai's attacks.
On the festival day, Xu Xian hesitates but ultimately decides to trust Fahai. He hands Bai Suzhen a cup of the realgar wine, saying, "Drink this, my love. It will bring us good fortune."
Bai Suzhen, unaware of the wine's true purpose, drinks it willingly. As the wine takes effect, her powers fade, and Fahai seizes the opportunity to capture her.
With a wave of his staff, Fahai summons magical chains that bind Bai Suzhen. He imprisons her under Leifeng Pagoda, using magical seals to suppress her abilities.
Xu Xian realizes his grave mistake and is filled with remorse. He rushes to Leifeng Pagoda, demanding Fahai release his wife.
"You deceived me, Fahai!" Xu Xian cries. "I'll do anything to free Bai Suzhen!"
Fahai sneers, confident in his victory. "You should have listened to me earlier, Xu Xian. Now, it's too late."
The chapter ends with:
- Bai Suzhen trapped and helpless
- Xu Xian determined to rescue her
- Fahai confident in his victory
Will Xu Xian find a way to rescue Bai Suzhen? Or will Fahai's plan succeed?