This chapter opens with a discussion between young master Kuang and young master hongdou. Kuang says that the emperor has announced his decree that the viscount will not be allowed to enter the scholar's association. He also says that if the emperor were in the family, a "worthless piece of trash" like him would have been kicked out already. The family does not keep trash in its family, Kuang explains, because it is part of the family's tradition. The strongest fighter, zuo Ming, nearly lost his life in the fight last time. . young master Hongdou, who is returning to the palace, invites young master lang to come back with him. He tells him that he still has feelings for him, but that he will be a worthless "piece of trash forever" if he does not return soon.