The Succession Fight at Little Mirror Lake

This flow traces the challenge between Duan Yanqing and Duan Zhengchun, where a throne contest becomes a test of loyalty and restraint.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

An Attack on the Prince

A Rival Arrives The challenger's claim Duan Yanqing arrives with the Four Evils and announces his intention to seize the Dali throne. His challenge threatens Duan Zhengchun and everyone sheltering beside Little Mirror Lake. A political conflict personalizes The contest is not merely a duel: Duan Zhengchun's lover, daughter, and guards are present. His choice to stand his ground reflects both political duty and personal pride.

The Guards' Defense

Defending the Household A divided fight Dali's companions engage the arriving villains, while Chu Wanli rushes toward Duan Yanqing. A'Zi's earlier treatment of Chu Wanli has already strained the loyalty of those defending her father. A battle without balance The defenders are courageous, but Duan Yanqing's skill makes the encounter dangerous. The fight grows more chaotic as personal anger disrupts coordinated defense.

Chu Wanli's Death

Loyalty Paid in Blood A desperate attack Chu Wanli fights with no regard for his own survival after the humiliation of being trapped in A'Zi's Flexible Silk Net. Duan Yanqing's iron cane eventually pierces him. A bond acknowledged Duan Zhengchun kneels and apologizes for his daughter's conduct. Chu Wanli dies affirming his loyalty to the House of Duan, turning a family embarrassment into an irreversible loss.

The Orthodox Duel

A Contest on Family Terms The sword and the canes Duan Zhengchun and Duan Yanqing fight with the Duan Family Sword tradition. Each knows that the contest carries political legitimacy as well as mortal danger. A narrowing advantage Duan Yanqing's internal power gradually overcomes Duan Zhengchun's defenses. The duel approaches its conclusion as the surrounding companions struggle to respect its terms.

Xiao Feng Intervenes

An Enemy Preserved The decisive rescue Xiao Feng pulls Duan Zhengchun away from Duan Yanqing's fatal strike. He saves the man he believes to be his enemy because he needs the truth from him. The revenge delayed Duan Yanqing withdraws, while Xiao Feng confronts Duan Zhengchun later by appointment. The intervention prevents the central grievance from being settled by a third party.

After Duan Zhengchun's reunion with Ruan Xingzhu

At the opening of the lakeside battle

During the first exchange with Duan Yanqing

After Duan Zhengchun challenges Duan Yanqing alone

At the climax of the Little Mirror Lake duel