We wrap up our in depth discussion of the extraordinary drama, The Longest Day In Chang'An with a recap of episode 48. We also discuss overall thoughts of the drama, go over book differences, highlight key historical character endings and also elaborate on careers of the 3 main cast members.
Thank you all for joining us as we complete another drama!
In the penultimate episode (ep 47) of the Longest Day in Chang'An, the characters uncover one final spy hidden amongst them at Jing An Si. The Emperor is bewildered to see Xu Bin as the one to greet him after his harrowing escape. Despite his best efforts, Xu Bin is dismayed to see that the Emperor refuses to acknowledge his abilities. Xu Bin resolves to show just what he is capable of. Listen our latest podcast episode as many more secrets are revealed!
Xiao Gui and Zhang Xiao Jing hide alongside the Emperor and Tan Qi in a tavern. A barber and his young daughter seek refuge in the tavern only to find that they stepped into a lion's den. Xiao Gui wants the Emperor to be killed publicly but is surprised when the Emperor kneels and requests that Xiao Gui lets innocent civilians go. Seeing that innocent lives are in danger and that perhaps the Emperor is not as bad as he seems, Xiao Gui decides to step forward to save the day.
In episode 44 and part 1 of episode 45, the Emperor finally experiences the reality of Chang An. He cannot believe the poverty, filth, and corruption that is occurs right outside of his palace walls. He is also touched by the kindness shown by regular people expecting nothing in return, but he nevertheless see the reality that the Right Chancellor wants him to see. Meanwhile, Li Bi vows to uncover the mastermind behind the day's events, even if it means the end of his career. Cheng Sen agrees to aid him
In episode 43, Xiao Gui successfully kidnaps the Emperor. The remaining factions, especially the Right Chancellor, begin plotting to seize power and begin moving their pawns in the city of Chang An. Only the Crown Prince is genuinely worried about his father's safety. Xiao Gui discovers that deceit from Tan Qi and threatens to kill everyone but is distracted by guards searching the city. The Emperor manages to escape and is now out in the city of Chang An and faces many surprises from his subjects.
In episode 42, Xiao Gui finally slaughters his way to the Emperor where he confronts the man on whether he remembers the 8th squad. The Emperor stands his ground and almost persuades Xiao Gui to abandon his mission. The Emperor shoots his arrow, but thanks to Zhang Xiao Jing, the explosion does not go off as planned.
Tensions rise at the Emperor's banquet as Director He finally confronts the Emperor on how he is running his empire. Director He tries to kill the Right Chancellor, exclaiming that he is a corrupt presence. The Emperor though dismisses all of these claims. Zhang Xiao Jing part ways with Xiao Gui as the latter heads to the Palace to confront the Emperor. Li Bi escapes and persuades the Crown Prince to protect the Emperor
Zhang Xiao Jing finally heads up to the Lantern tower and sees the true identity of Long Bo – his fellow soldier from the 8th squad, Xiao Gui. Swiftly, Zhang Xiao Jing chokes Li Bi to death before discussing with Xiao Gui why he's on today's path. Meanwhile, the Emperor is making the Crown Prince's life difficult again and Cheng Sen is discovering more clues about Xu Bin's involvement in tonight's events.
Wen Ran finds Zhang Xiao Jing in the Lantern Tower and she implores him to leave Chang An with her. He, however, is adamant he wants to stay in Chang An to protect its people. He wishes for Wen Ran to stay because it is what his fallen brothers hoped for on the battlefield.
