A Girl Like Me Recap, Plot, Synopsis

> A Girl Like Me

A Girl Like Me Synopsis

This is a story of a woman who has been withdrawn from her marriage three times and a gentleman who has the best talent and looks in the world.

The outgoing, straightforward and spirited but actually kind-hearted and delicate heroine Ban Hua is inexplicably withdrawn from marriage three times.

Accidentally, she fInds that she has the ability to foretell the future through dreams.

The kind-hearted Ban Hua decides to help her family avoid bad luck.

At the same time, in order to solve the mystery of the extermination of the family, Rong Xia, is intensely pursuing the truth of his own birth in the court.

By chance he meets Ban Hua, and they work together to solve the secret step by step, and love each other for life.

A Girl Like Me Recap

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5
• 6
• 7
• 8
• 9
• 10
• 11
• 12
• 13
• 14
• 15
• 16
• 17
• 18
• 19
• 20
• 21
• 22
• 23
• 24
• 25
• 26
• 27
• 28
• 29
• 30
• 31
• 32
• 33
• 34
• 35
• 36
• 37
• 38
• 39
• 40

Episode 1 Recap

In the early autumn of the eighteenth year of Daye Zhenwu, the Ban family was abuzz with preparations for the wedding of their eldest daughter, Ban Hua, to Xie Qilin. While musicians struggled with their notes, Ban Huai, Ban Hua's father, meticulously oversaw the arrangements. Ban Hua herself was a renowned trendsetter in the capital, celebrated for her striking looks and generosity.

In contrast, the groom, Xie Qilin, was ordinary in appearance and talent, leading many to wonder if the wedding would even happen. Amidst the preparations, Ban Hua awoke from a peculiar dream in which she heard Xie Qilin declare he would never marry her, only to realize the groom at the altar was a stranger. Shortly after, Ban Hua’s brother, Ban Heng, received an arrow with a letter from the Xie family, announcing their intention to break off the engagement.

A furious Ban Hua rode her horse through the capital's streets, causing a stir. She stopped at a spot she recognized from her dream and saw Xie Qilin with a woman named Yun. When Ban Hua approached, Xie Qilin drew his sword, reiterating his refusal to marry her. Unfazed, Ban Hua lashed her whip near his feet, startling him into dropping his weapon.

She coolly stated that she had no affection for him and that the Xie family had begged for the union. After Yun knelt and pleaded for Xie Qilin's safety, Ban Hua scattered silver notes on the ground, calling it a thank-you gift for revealing Xie Qilin's true nature. This entire scene was observed by Count Cheng’an, Rong Xia, known as the most distinguished gentleman in Daye. Ban Hua noticed him as well, finding him strangely familiar.

Rong Xia's bodyguard, Du Jiu, worried that Ban Hua had taken an interest in his master, tried to shield his face. While Du Jiu found Ban Hua fierce and rude, Rong Xia was intrigued, finding her amusingly different from other women. Upon returning home, Ban Hua asked her parents if they had ever dreamed of future events, but they dismissed it as a sign of her distress over the broken engagement.

Undeterred, she instructed her handmaids, Rocky and Softy, to dress her in splendid attire for a chrysanthemum banquet, where her outfit was immediately sketched by onlookers for local tailors to replicate. At the banquet, Xie Wanyu, Xie Qilin's sister, taunted Ban Hua about the broken engagement. After a brief mediation by Shi Feixian, the Right Prime Minister’s granddaughter, the taunts continued in the presence of Princess Anle.

In a moment of bravado, Ban Hua falsely declared she was already engaged to Count Cheng’an, unaware that Rong Xia himself had just arrived with a gift for the princess and overheard her. To Ban Hua's mortification, Rong Xia politely stated he did not recall their supposed meeting, leaving her deeply embarrassed. Furious, Ban Hua left, but quickly turned back, unwilling to let them have the last laugh.

She encountered Rong Xia again and berated him for his lack of chivalry, even misquoting a proverb. Rong Xia remained composed and apologetic, eventually yielding the path, which only led Ban Hua to call him a "dull goose." Later, Rong Xia stood before his parents' memorial tablets, reaffirming his commitment to uncovering the truth behind his family's extermination. He revealed that getting close to the Ban family was a strategic part of his plan for justice.

Meanwhile, Ban Huai and Ban Heng led a group to the Xie Mansion, pelting it with eggs and demanding to see Xie Qilin. Hiding inside, Count Xie eventually ordered his guards to fight them off. Ban Hua awoke from another disturbing dream, this time of her family's mansion being confiscated and her relatives arrested. She tried to warn her family, describing how she escaped while they were captured.

She also told them of another premonition from a different dream—that Xie Qilin would go blind. Her family dismissed her fears, convinced that dreams are the opposite of reality and that no one would dare harm them with the Princess Royal, Ban Hua's grandmother, as their protector. At court, Emperor Yunqing questioned Count Xie about an injury on his forehead. Count Xie blamed Ban Huai for attacking his home and smashing the "Loyal Family" plaque, a gift from the Emperor.

However, Rong Xia testified that the Xie family had broken the engagement first, damaging Ban Hua’s reputation and making the Ban family's anger understandable. The Emperor accepted this and did not punish Ban Huai. Subsequently, the Princess Royal sent a carriage of gifts to the Ban Mansion, reaffirming her influence. Rong Xia's investigation also uncovered that Ban Hua's grandfather, the old General Ban, had been poisoned years ago, hinting at a larger conspiracy possibly involving the Tiger Tally.

Following these events, an imperial decree was issued, stripping Xie Qilin of his academic honors and forbidding him from taking future exams, leaving his father stunned. Still troubled by her dream, Ban Hua was reluctantly coaxed by Ban Heng to visit a new tea house. In reality, he was following their parents' instructions to take her to Rong Xia's mansion to express their gratitude. Ban Hua initially refused to enter, but eventually relented. Upon seeing Rong Xia, she couldn't help but inwardly admit that, despite her annoyance, he was as handsome as his reputation claimed.

Episode 2 Recap

Ban Heng arrived at Rong Xia’s mansion, offering a special gift as gratitude for Rong Xia’s assistance to the Ban family in court. Despite Rong Xia's initial reluctance, Ban Heng insisted, presenting two prized fighting crickets. Ban Heng passionately described their impressive combat records, leading Ban Hua and Rong Xia to engage in playful banter over which cricket was superior. They agreed to a match, and with Ban Heng's enthusiastic support, Rong Xia’s cricket won.

Furious at the loss, Ban Hua declared her departure and dragged Ban Heng away, while Rong Xia, new to the pastime, found it surprisingly amusing. Later, Ban Hua experienced another prophetic dream, this time seeing Rong Xia at a fabric store. Determined to prove her premonitions were real, she persuaded her skeptical mother, Yin Shi, to accompany her to the store to wait for him.

Yin Shi had to leave early for other commitments, but Ban Hua stayed and, to her astonishment, Rong Xia arrived just as she had dreamed. She urgently asked him to wait while she fetched her mother, but Rong Xia, who was merely passing through to buy brushes and ink, did not linger.

In the carriage, his guard Du Jiu expressed concern that getting close to the Ban family was risky, but Rong Xia affirmed it was necessary to uncover the truth. Shortly after, Ban Hua intercepted her family's carriage and excitedly told her father, Ban Huai, and Ban Heng about her dream’s fulfillment. After she left, the two decided to investigate the part of her dream about Xie Qilin going blind and headed to the Xie Mansion.

Spying from a rooftop, they saw Xie Qilin speaking with a woman. After she left, Xie Qilin was reciting poetry in a pavilion when he tripped over a bamboo stalk, severely injuring his eye. Ban Huai immediately jumped down, but Ban Heng stumbled, fell into the compound, and was captured by the Xie family as a trespasser.

Later, Ban Huai knelt before Yin Shi, pleading for forgiveness for his recklessness, but she, worried about their son, left him to his penance. When news spread that Ban Heng had injured Xie Qilin, Rong Xia instructed his men not to get involved publicly but began a secret investigation into the Xie family. The next day in court, Count Xie accused Ban Heng of blinding his son and demanded justice.

Concerned about the political machinations of the rival Shi and Yan families, the Princess Royal visited the Ban Mansion. She and Yin Shi agreed that the only person impartial and trustworthy enough to handle the case was Rong Xia. Despite Ban Hua’s strong objections due to her past encounters with him, the decision was made. Ban Hua visited Ban Heng in prison, dismayed to find him feasting as if on holiday.

There, she met Shi Jin, the official in charge of the case and grandson of the Right Prime Minister. Surprised by his handsome appearance, Ban Hua earnestly pleaded for his help, saying that she found him to be a straightforward person like herself. Shi Jin, who harbored feelings for her, readily agreed. At a poetry gathering, Shi Feixian elegantly completed a difficult couplet posed by Rong Xia, earning widespread praise.

A jealous lady, Li Xiaoru, then disparaged Ban Hua, claiming Xie Qilin's injury was a result of her curse. Overhearing this, Ban Hua stepped out to confront her, and Rong Xia intervened. Believing Rong Xia favored Shi Feixian's refined demeanor, Ban Hua decided to cater to his tastes to secure his help for her brother.

She awkwardly adopted a demure manner to speak with him privately, but unable to remember the lines her mother had prepared, she simply handed him a note with her request. Rong Xia understood her intent but left without a clear answer. The next day, Ban Hua found Rong Xia at a teahouse inquiring about a rare book, the "Collection of Poems." She pressed him for an answer, but he remained evasive.

Determined, she followed him to a stationery shop and began outbidding him on every item he touched. When Du Jiu revealed Rong Xia only intended to buy one brush, a frustrated Ban Hua tossed her purchases aside. She continued to pester him, even having her makeup done beside him as he tried to read, only for him to bluntly state that her heavy makeup was unsuitable.

Meanwhile, Shi Jin’s investigation at the Xie Mansion led him to question Xie Wanyu, who lied that she had been home all day. Her alibi was corroborated by her maid. Afterwards, Count Xie instructed Xie Wanyu to tell Shi Feixian not to mention visiting Xie Qilin on the day of the incident. Already suspicious, Shi Jin waited outside and witnessed Xie Wanyu rushing to Shi Feixian's residence.

That night, a desperate Ban Hua snuck into the Xie Mansion and encountered Rong Xia, who was also investigating. She accused him of being bought off, but he assured her he was on the case. Ignoring his warning against using force, Ban Hua entered Xie Qilin's room. Brandishing a dagger, she urged him to tell the truth, vowing to take responsibility herself if he was simply seeking revenge.

When he refused to cooperate, she showed him a letter from Rong Xia that read: "I have 'Collection of Poems.' I would like to meet with you, Mr. Xie." The following day in court, Shi Jin reported that his investigation had uncovered new information. When the Emperor asked Xie Qilin to recount the incident, Xie Qilin, who had previously been resolute in his accusation, stunned everyone by hesitantly claiming he could no longer remember the details.

Episode 3 Recap

In the imperial court, His Majesty ordered Xie Qilin to recount the true events of his injury. Before Xie Qilin could speak, Rong Xia pressed him, revealing his knowledge that the poetry collection gifted to Xie Qilin was a unique copy and that Shi Feixian had been with him on the day his eye was injured. Aware of their private meeting, Rong Xia offered Xie Qilin a choice: reveal the truth or risk Shi Feixian's reputation.

Cornered, Xie Qilin confessed that he had accidentally tripped over branches, injuring his eye, and that Ban Heng was innocent. Despite the crime of deceiving the Emperor, His Majesty, considering Xie Qilin's blindness and his family's past contributions, leniently sentenced him to twenty floggings and banned him from court for life. Later, Shi Feixian's brother, Shi Jin, thanked Rong Xia for his assistance, admitting he had covered up his sister's meeting with Xie Qilin to protect the family's honor.

Rong Xia expressed understanding, acknowledging that even upright individuals have personal motives. Meanwhile, the Ban family offered prayers, and Ban Hua expressed relief that the incident was resolved. However, a vivid dream disturbed her: she saw her family's mansion and wealth being confiscated by order of the Emperor. This dream, much like a previous one about Xie Qilin's blindness that came true, intensified her anxiety about a new emperor seizing their fortune.

The Ban family discussed their predicament, speculating whether the kind Crown Prince or the treacherous Prince Luo might be the future emperor. Ban Hua’s mother proposed a three-part strategy: first, secretly bury their valuables for future use; second, identify the potential new emperor and establish strong ties with him; and third, live lavishly to enjoy their wealth while they still could. Acting on the plan, Ban Hua sought to curry favor with Rong Xia.

Dismissing her servants' cruder gift ideas, she chose a painting she believed would appeal to his refined taste. When Rong Xia received the gift, he was astonished to find it was "A Panorama of Rivers and Mountains," a legendary, long-lost painting from a previous dynasty, rumored to be connected to missing treasures and the Tiger Tally.

Realizing Ban Hua was oblivious to the painting's immense value, Rong Xia accepted it, believing it might lead him closer to the truth about the Tiger Tally. He began to wonder if the Ban family had been feigning ignorance for years and arranged a secret meeting to discuss this development. Sometime later, Ban Hua and Ban Heng ventured into the forest to bury their "life-saving money," a childhood game of theirs.

They were surprised to encounter Rong Xia, who claimed to be searching for his lost cat as a cover. He secretly instructed his men to verify if the siblings were truly burying treasure; if not, they were to be eliminated. During their walk, a sound from the forest startled Ban Hua, and Rong Xia used the distraction to pretend to lose his jade pendant.

As Ban Hua was about to board her carriage, a firework signal—a sign from Rong Xia's men confirming the treasure was just money—erupted. Rong Xia swiftly pulled her away from her carriage, where assassins had been hiding. Oblivious to the danger, Ban Hua simply commented on the unexpected fireworks. Rong Xia then insisted on personally escorting her home in his own carriage. Du Jiu later reported to Rong Xia that he had found the buried items, which were only money.

Rong Xia decided to "safeguard" the money for them. He told Du Jiu that the Ban family's close bond would be useful for his long-term plan to get closer to the Princess Royal, dismissing concerns that Ban Hua might grow suspicious. Back at the Ban mansion, Ban Hua confided in her family that she suspected Rong Xia was the usurper from her dream.

Her mother, recalling the accuracy of the dream about Xie Qilin, advised her to proceed with caution while still trying to get closer to him. Meanwhile, Ban Heng began publicly gathering information on Rong Xia, posting notices with high rewards. In her own attempt to win Rong Xia over, Ban Hua first tried to imitate Shi Feixian, but her servants found the effort "scary" and advised her to be herself.

She then arranged for an elaborate meal to be delivered to Rong Xia. Though she disliked mustard fish, Rong Xia's favorite, she ate it to maintain her pretense, while his butler meticulously noted her preferences. Xie Wanyu informed Shi Feixian of Ban Hua's public pursuit of Rong Xia. Shi Feixian then visited the palace, where she was accosted by the profligate Prince Luo before her sister, the Crown Princess, intervened.

The Crown Princess gave Shi Feixian a list of Rong Xia's preferences to help her compete with Ban Hua. Inspired, Ban Hua arranged a luxurious carriage for Rong Xia's use. Du Jiu scoffed, betting Rong Xia would never ride in it, only to be proven wrong when Rong Xia accepted. Later, Shi Feixian and Xie Wanyu devised a plan to give Ban Hua an impossible task.

They decided to tell her that Rong Xia loves skating, knowing it would be impossible for her to find an ice rink in autumn. Xie Wanyu subsequently found Ban Heng and told him that Rong Xia loved skating above all else. That evening, Rong Xia's butler noted that his master had barely eaten, musing that he always ate more when Ban Hua was present, to which Rong Xia simply dismissed him.

Episode 4 Recap

Having moved into a mansion right next to Count Cheng’an’s residence, Ban Hua, with her attendant Softy, arranged for a spectacular fireworks display. Softy boasted that Rong Xia would have the best view. As the fireworks lit up the sky, Rong Xia's servant, Du Jiu, dismissed it as Ban Hua’s typical antics, but Rong Xia watched with a faint smile. Softy later attempted to visit Rong Xia's mansion but was rudely turned away by Du Jiu.

Infuriated by the dismissal, Ban Hua resolved to find a new way to approach the unexpectedly difficult Count. The next morning, noticing Ban Hua hadn't sent her usual carriage for him, Rong Xia worried that Du Jiu’s behavior had offended her. He instructed Du Jiu to select jewelry from his treasury and deliver it as both a thank you for the fireworks and an apology.

When Du Jiu arrived, Softy, still holding a grudge, deliberately made him wait for a long time before informing him that Ban Hua had already left for the day and handing him a letter for Rong Xia. The letter was an invitation to go skating in the suburbs. Rong Xia accepted, arriving to find a large frozen lake.

Du Jiu, knowing Rong Xia disliked skating so much that he had all the ice in his own mansion broken during winter, suggested they decline. Rong Xia, however, was determined to foster a good relationship with the Ban family and insisted on staying. He initially claimed to have a cold to avoid getting on the ice, but he couldn't refuse the enthusiastic pressure from Ban Hua and her brother, Ban Heng.

Ban Heng, misinformed, had previously told his sister that skating was Rong Xia's greatest passion, a hobby he’d maintained for eighteen years. Ban Hua assured Rong Xia that the activity would warm him up and that she had even brought a physician in case of any falls. On the ice, the graceful and skilled Ban Hua offered to teach Rong Xia, who admitted he was rusty.

As she took his hand to guide him, the closeness stirred a memory in Rong Xia of his brother teaching him to skate as a child. A quick learner, he was soon skating on his own. Impressed, Ban Hua challenged him to a race. As they glided towards the center of the lake, however, the thin ice cracked, and Rong Xia plunged into the freezing water.

Meanwhile, a royal drama unfolded as the Emperor ordered Prince Luo to marry Xie Wanyu. The prince defiantly refused, declaring he would only marry Shi Feixian. The Emperor explained that with her sister already the Crown Princess, marrying Shi Feixian would grant the Shi family too much power. When Prince Luo remained defiant, the Emperor slapped him and ordered him confined to his residence.

The incident spawned wild rumors among the public, with tales escalating from a slap to a full-blown fight where the prince knocked the Emperor unconscious. Ban Hua quickly pulled Rong Xia from the icy water. While his attendants were frantic with worry, Softy retorted, blaming Ban Hua for the accident. After composing himself, Rong Xia took his own cloak and insisted on draping it over Ban Hua, expressing his gratitude and concern.

The gesture made Ban Hua see him as less boring than she had thought. Unbeknownst to them, Shi Feixian's spies reported the entire event to their mistress. Shi Feixian was furious that her plan to create a rift between them had backfired, inadvertently bringing them closer.

Ban Hua's attendants suggested that Rong Xia was now indebted to her and should repay her with marriage, but Ban Hua dismissed the idea, stating she was only responsible for the skating, not for the ice breaking. Later, continuing his private investigation into his mother’s bracelet, Rong Xia sent Du Jiu, disguised as a doctor's assistant, to infiltrate the Xie mansion.

Accompanying a doctor treating the blind Xie Qilin, the masked Du Jiu made a sarcastic remark about Xie Qilin's condition, prompting the doctor to send him out. Du Jiu used the opportunity to search Xie Qilin's study but later reported to Rong Xia that he found no trace of the bracelet. Rong Xia concluded they were being intentionally misled, as he believed Xie Qilin lacked the cunning for such a scheme.

When Ban Hua came to visit, Rong Xia instructed his butler, Uncle Rong, to turn her away, claiming he was ill and could not receive visitors, leaving the butler confused by his master's conflicting signals. Undeterred, Ban Hua sent two magnificent stone lions to Rong Xia's mansion, naming them "Zhen Jing" (Suppress Fright) to "calm" him.

Hearing he was genuinely sick, she decided not to enter, preferring to preserve the elegant image of him in her mind rather than see him in a vulnerable state. She and Ban Heng then went out, with Ban Hua arranging for someone to monitor Rong Xia’s recovery. During their outing, they saw a poor scholar, Shen Yu, being thrown out of an inn for defending Ban Hua’s and Xie Wanyu's reputations against drunkards spreading malicious rumors.

Ban Hua intervened, scolding the patrons and declaring that a woman's worth is not defined by marriage. She forced the innkeeper to apologize to Shen Yu, who was deeply impressed by her righteousness, calling her a "beautiful and clean jade." Moved, Ban Hua announced that the Ban family would sponsor the inn to provide free food, lodging, and study materials for poor scholars until the imperial exams, earning Shen Yu’s profound admiration.

Following the establishment of "Ban's Academy," which attracted many poor scholars, the family's patriarch, Marquis Jingting Ban Huai, expressed his approval of the strategic move. Shen Yu, now infatuated, boldly proposed marriage to Ban Hua at the academy, leading an infuriated Ban Huai to have him thrown out. Undaunted, Shen Yu began a relentless vigil outside the Ban mansion, proclaiming his love daily. At court, the Emperor commended Ban Huai for his family's generosity.

Ban Huai seized the opportunity to complain about Shen Yu’s "terrifying" courtship. The Emperor asked for Rong Xia's opinion. Rong Xia praised Ban Hua's wisdom and empathy but advised the Emperor that it was a personal matter only Ban Hua could resolve. The Emperor agreed. Later, Ban Huai informed Ban Hua that he had seen a perfectly healthy Rong Xia at the Imperial Study.

Realizing Rong Xia had lied about being sick, Ban Hua was annoyed but then decided to let Shen Yu continue his vigil, curious to see how long his determination would last.

Episode 5 Recap

Rong Xia's butler noted his young master's unusual attentiveness to Ban Hua, observing that Rong Xia had the stone lions she sent him wiped three times a day. While aware that Shen Yu continued to pester Ban Hua outside her mansion, Rong Xia chose not to intervene, expressing a desire to see how she would handle such a persistent scholar.

Shen Yu's ardent declarations of love for Ban Hua became a daily spectacle outside the Ban's Mansion, and he even had a friend stand guard at the back door. Feeling trapped, Ban Hua attempted to slip out, sending Ban Heng to divert the friend, but Shen Yu spotted her, forcing her to retreat. Later, despite a sudden downpour, Shen Yu remained steadfast, standing in the heavy rain. Moved by his persistence, Madam Ban and Marquis Jingting invited him inside.

Ban Heng tried to dissuade Shen Yu by painting a grim picture of Ban Hua's temperament, but Shen Yu firmly declared his unwavering love for all of Ban Hua's traits and criticized Ban Heng for speaking ill of his own sister. Madam Ban explained that due to His Majesty's affection for Ban Hua, he would not allow her to marry an ordinary person.

Nonetheless, she presented a condition: if Shen Yu could achieve a ranking within the top three in the imperial examination, she and the Marquis would petition His Majesty to grant the marriage. Shen Yu joyfully accepted, receiving a jade pendant as a token of their agreement, and promised to dedicate himself to his studies. Du Jiu excitedly reported to Rong Xia that the Ban family had accepted Shen Yu's proposal, causing Rong Xia's writing hand to pause subtly.

Back at the Ban's Mansion, Ban Hua vehemently opposed the engagement. Upon learning from Ban Heng that he had spread the news of the proposal throughout the capital, she was infuriated. Ban Heng explained it was a ploy to pressure Count Cheng’an into revealing his true feelings for her. Conceding that Ban Heng's logic held some merit, Ban Hua took his novel and a chicken leg, her anger dissipating.

Meanwhile, Shen Yu proudly flaunted the jade pendant to a friend, boasting that after he married Ban Hua, he would find a suitable noblewoman for him. Ban Hua’s maids, Softy and Rocky, suggested schemes to deter Shen Yu, such as feigning a monastic vow or a plague, but Ban Hua dismissed them as impractical and decided to confront him directly.

When she told him she was not yet ready for marriage and wished to remain with her family, Shen Yu offered to marry into the Ban family and wait for her a lifetime if needed. This unwavering devotion only exasperated Ban Hua. Unbeknownst to her, Shen Yu then met with Prime Minister Shi, a powerful veteran official. It was revealed that Shi had dispatched Shen Yu to get close to the Ban family and search for a hidden tiger tally.

Shen Yu admitted he had not yet found it, with Ban Hua’s room being the last unsearched area. The Prime Minister reassured Shen Yu that once he achieved top scholar status with his help and married Ban Hua, he would have easy access to her room. Their conversation was overheard by Shi Feixian, who stood just outside the door. Shen Yu passed the imperial examination, and rumors of his impending marriage to Ban Hua reached the Emperor.

After a brief personal assessment, His Majesty placed him as the third-place scholar, the lowest rank among the top three. Shortly after Rong Xia received intelligence about Shen Yu's success, Shen Yu himself arrived at Rong Xia's residence. He declared that once he married Ban Hua, her affairs would become his own, showing the jade pendant as proof of their engagement. Rong Xia, perceiving Shen Yu as cunning, immediately instructed Du Jiu to investigate his background.

Ban Hua remained unwilling to marry Shen Yu, finding his overly compliant nature suspicious and recalling his peculiar, furtive behavior within the Ban mansion. To test him, she had Rocky disguise himself as a fortune teller, who cryptically warned Shen Yu that a forced marriage would cost him his life, leaving Shen Yu visibly concerned. Later, a group of young noblemen, including Zhou Changxiao, cornered Shen Yu.

They recounted the tragic fates of Ban Hua’s previous fiancés—one drowned, another blinded—hoping to deter him. However, Shen Yu stubbornly defended Ban Hua’s reputation against their slander. Concerned, Rong Xia sought out Ban Hua, warning her that his investigation revealed Shen Yu's unsavory character and connections to Prime Minister Shi. Without concrete evidence, Ban Hua remained unconvinced.

At court, Shen Yu was appointed Deputy Director of the Ministry of Personnel, a position notably lower than those awarded to the top two scholars. At a subsequent banquet for the new scholars, Shen Yu and a young noblewoman, Li Xiaoru, were conspicuously ignored while others flocked to Rong Xia and Shi Feixian. Shen Yu generously offered Li Xiaoru his fan, explaining that it symbolized camaraderie and that no one should feel neglected.

Li Xiaoru, blushing, reciprocated by shyly offering him her handkerchief. Meanwhile, Rong Xia's subordinate, Wang Qu, uncovered critical information: Shen Yu had an unbetrothed fiancée, Ms. Wang, in his hometown, who had even funded his journey to the capital. Rong Xia immediately ordered Wang Qu to bring her to the capital. Wang Qu burst into the Ban’s Mansion and presented Ms. Wang to Ban Hua, who was instantly enraged upon learning of Shen Yu's profound deception.

Episode 6 Recap

On the street, Ban Hua confronted Shen Yu, who was strolling with Li Xiaoru. When Li Xiaoru mistakenly assumed Ban Hua was jealous over a fan Shen Yu had given her, Ban Hua scoffed that she wasn't worthy of being her rival. Just then, Rong Xia arrived with a woman claiming to be Wang, Shen Yu’s fiancée from his hometown.

The woman publicly accused Shen Yu of being a heartless betrayer, claiming he used her family’s money for the imperial examination only to abandon her after his success. Shen Yu’s denials crumbled as she tearfully recounted their plans, turning the crowd against him. Disgusted by his deception, Ban Hua lashed him twice with her whip.

Driven to desperation, Shen Yu admitted he had only pursued Ban Hua for her beauty and wealth, viciously calling her a vulgar, extravagant, and unlucky tigress. He then broke the engagement by dramatically smashing the jade pendant her family had given him. Infuriated, Ban Hua lunged at him, intending to do more harm, but Shi Jin intervened to restrain her. Rong Xia then stepped in to escort her away.

On the way back to her residence, Rong Xia tried to console her, but Ban Hua, denying she was upset, demanded to know why he repeatedly interfered in her engagements. Rong Xia, aware that the real Wang had been taken by Prime Minister Shi's men in a matter connected to the Emperor and the Tiger Tally, could not give her a straight answer.

Ban Hua, having already deduced that the woman was an imposter, furiously accused Rong Xia of being more despicable than Shen Yu for his elaborate deception. She pressed him one last time, asking if he feared her being deceived or if he feared her getting married. When Rong Xia faltered, unable to answer, Ban Hua angrily rode off with her brother. That night, Rong Xia was still troubled by Ban Hua's question.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shi, frustrated by the loss of Shen Yu as an informant in his search for the Tiger Tally, considered impeaching the Ban family. However, his son Shi Jin advised against it, arguing Ban Hua's actions were understandable. Unbeknownst to them, Count Xie had already persuaded several officials to write memorials condemning Ban Hua for publicly whipping an official, framing it as contempt for imperial authority.

At the next morning's court session, a flurry of memorials denounced Ban Hua. Rong Xia defended her, arguing that Shen Yu's deceit was the cause. Shi Jin, as an eyewitness, supported this, adding that Ban Hua had claimed to be teaching Shen Yu a lesson on the Emperor's behalf. With the court divided, the Emperor grew frustrated. Later, the Princess Royal, Ban Hua's aunt, dramatically pleaded with the Emperor, blaming herself and asking for punishment.

The affectionate Emperor comforted her and issued an edict that stunned the court. Shen Yu was stripped of his position and honors and barred from office for life. In contrast, Ban Hua was not only pardoned but also elevated to the rank of Countess with a generous fiefdom. While the Ban family was overjoyed, the Xie family was furious.

Xie Qilin, however, pragmatically advised his father to stop their feud, acknowledging that with the Princess Royal's protection, the Emperor would never truly harm the Ban family. Shi Feixian teased her brother, Shi Jin, about his admiration for Ban Hua after he defended her in court. Shen Yu, meanwhile, became a public disgrace, reviled and assaulted by citizens, with even Li Xiaoru abandoning him.

Ban Hua had another dream about the mysterious man in black who shot her with an arrow, and the family concluded it couldn't be Shen Yu. Her mother suspected it might be Prince Luo, whose new engagement to Xie Wanyu could bring trouble. Ban Hua, however, still suspected Rong Xia. She visited his mansion on the pretext of looking for a lost cat, but Rong Xia, anticipating her move, had already acquired a cat, temporarily dispelling her suspicions.

As the royal autumn hunt approached, Ban Hua’s mother, worried by the ominous dreams, pleaded with her not to go. Ban Hua insisted, preferring to live fearlessly, and her mother gave her a protective talisman. At the hunting grounds, Shi Jin presented Ban Hua with a carved wooden bow, and they agreed to a friendly competition. Later, deep in the woods, Ban Hua accidentally stumbled upon Prince Luo in a clandestine meeting with men in black.

Snapping a twig, she gave away her position and was forced to flee. Just as she was cornered, Rong Xia appeared and rescued her. They hid in a thicket, but the surrounding flowers triggered Ban Hua's allergies. As she was about to sneeze, Rong Xia silenced her with a kiss to prevent their discovery.

Episode 7 Recap

While hiding in the woods from Prince Luo's searching guards, Ban Hua is overcome by flower pollen and is about to sneeze. To silence her, Rong Xia impulsively kisses her. Just as Prince Luo’s guards draw near, Rong Xia pushes her out of their hiding spot. Prince Luo discovers Ban Hua, demanding to know why she is there.

Ban Hua claims she was hunting and snagged her clothes, but when he remains suspicious, she resorts to her usual chaotic antics, accusing him of bullying her. Prince Luo, losing his patience, draws his bow and threatens to kill her, which triggers a flash of Ban Hua's prophetic dream. At that critical moment, Rong Xia emerges, explaining that he and Ban Hua were hunting together and she had simply run off too quickly.

Since Prince Luo believes he will need Rong Xia for his future plans, he chooses to let them go. After Prince Luo departs, a fuming Ban Hua confronts Rong Xia. She accuses him of taking advantage of her, demanding to know why he didn't just cover her mouth with his hand instead of kissing her so tightly. Rong Xia explains that his hands were occupied—one with his bow and the other held by her.

Despite his logical explanations, Ban Hua remains convinced he was simply attracted to her, labeling him "shameless and indecent." Rong Xia, in turn, questions her "improper thoughts," suggesting she was the one who misinterpreted a desperate act for something more. He advises her to forget the incident and leave quickly before Prince Luo returns. News of the incident reaches Xie Chongjin, who is pleased to see the two princes at odds and resolves to fuel their conflict.

Meanwhile, Rong Xia deduces that Prince Luo's intended assassination attempt will likely occur during the upcoming archery event inside the palace, as a large-scale attack outside would be too reckless. Later, at the banquet, Ban Hua approaches Prince Luo with a toast, feigning an apology for their earlier confrontation. Prince Luo, however, demands she drink an entire pot of wine as penance. When Shi Jin attempts to intervene, his father, Prime Minister Shi, stops him.

Rong Xia then steps in and drinks the wine on Ban Hua's behalf, claiming she is a bad drinker and shouldn't spoil His Majesty's banquet. Prince Luo tries to press the issue, but His Majesty intervenes, telling his son to drop the matter. During the archery contest, His Majesty presents Crown Prince Zhang with a golden bow, symbolizing his future responsibilities. In a shocking move, Prince Luo snatches the bow from the Crown Prince, intending to use it.

His shot is meant to be a signal to his hidden assassins, but to his bewilderment, nothing happens. Unbeknownst to him, his men have already been neutralized by Du Jiu on Rong Xia's orders. Frustrated and confused, Prince Luo challenges Ban Hua, who had also tried to grab the bow, to an archery contest. Rong Xia, feigning drunkenness, volunteers to compete in her place.

He makes a spectacle of himself, fumbling with the bow and claiming he knows nothing about archery. Ban Hua, seeing his predicament, steps forward and guides his hands, helping him successfully hit the target. His Majesty, witnessing Ban Hua's skill, is fondly reminded of her grandfather, General Ban, who had also taught him archery. Impressed and moved by the memory of General Ban's loyalty, His Majesty publicly bestows upon Ban Hua the title "Commandery Princess Fule."

Later, in private, His Majesty slaps Prince Luo for his public disrespect and for undermining the Crown Prince. He orders him to kneel in front of the Crown Prince's Hall until noon the next day, deepening Prince Luo's resentment. That night, as Du Jiu carries a still-intoxicated Rong Xia home, he reports that the three assassins they captured all committed suicide by poison, leaving no clues.

In her own chambers, Ban Hua is unable to sleep, her mind replaying the moment Rong Xia kissed her. The next morning, Ban Hua sketches a new detail from her dream: the man in black has a distinctive scar on his chest. She dismisses Rong Xia as a suspect, reasoning that he cannot shoot an arrow and attributing his recent success entirely to her guidance.

Her new plan is to find a way to undress potential usurpers to check for the scar, starting with Prince Luo at her grandmother's upcoming birthday banquet. Elsewhere, Prince Luo, having knelt all night, defiantly refuses the Crown Prince's offer of assistance. The Crown Prince later expresses his feeling of inadequacy to His Majesty, who sternly reminds him of the responsibilities of a future ruler. Shortly after, Ban Hua proposes to personally organize her grandmother's birthday celebration.

His Majesty agrees, placing the Crown Prince in charge and assigning Rong Xia to assist, amusedly citing the "chemistry" he observed between them during the archery contest. Upon hearing of the grand banquet, Prime Minister Shi sees an opportunity. He plans to obtain the guard deployment map for the Princess Royal's residence, intending to replace her guards with his own men and search the estate for the Tiger Tally.

Later, as Ban Hua leaves the imperial hall, she runs into Rong Xia. Still feeling awkward about their intimate moments, she quickly flees. Shortly after, she encounters Prince Luo, who taunts her about her past broken engagements. Provoked, Ban Hua lunges at him, trying to tear his robes open to see the scar. A frantic Prince Luo clings to a pillar, crying for help as Rong Xia arrives to mediate.

He subtly advises the prince to compose himself to protect his reputation, but Ban Hua refuses to let go. Deliberately messing up her own appearance to appear as the victim, she declares she will drag the disheveled Prince Luo to His Majesty for judgment.

Episode 8 Recap

Inside the palace, Ban Hua dramatically fell in front of the Emperor. Just as Jiang Luo entered, she accused him of brutally striking her. Showing her bruised wrist, Ban Hua feigned a pitiful demeanor, declaring she had never been beaten so cruelly. Jiang Luo vehemently denied touching her, insisting she had thrown herself to the ground. However, the Emperor, exasperated by Jiang Luo's recent misconduct and previous embarrassment during the autumn hunt, chose to believe Ban Hua.

Even when Ban Hua feigned a confession of initiating the conflict, Rong Xia subtly reinforced the Emperor's perception by cautioning Ban Hua against arguing with someone of Jiang Luo's noble status, implicitly framing Jiang Luo as the aggressor. Convinced of Jiang Luo's poor character, the Emperor ordered him to return to his study and copy "The Book of Rites" five hundred times, forbidding him from leaving until it was finished.

Jiang Luo protested, questioning his father's affection, before being escorted away by Wang De. Rong Xia then returned Ban Hua's hairpin, acknowledging her cunning. Ban Hua playfully admitted that he was too clever to be fooled. Rong Xia advised her to control her temper when dealing with Prince Luo, suggesting there were more thoughtful ways to handle such situations, but Ban Hua casually dismissed this, stating she was too lazy to think of other methods.

Rong Xia expressed admiration for her, contrasting her supportive family with his own upbringing, where he learned to face everything alone. He revealed he was even trying to communicate with his cat, Huahua, a habit he began after a previous conversation with Ban Hua. She offered her support should he ever need someone to talk to, and they confirmed their renewed friendship, with Rong Xia promising to accept her future guidance. Furious about his punishment, Jiang Luo cursed Ban Hua.

His mother, the Empress, arrived and admonished him for causing further trouble, especially with Princess Royal's birthday banquet approaching, given the prior disgrace of the autumn hunt. When Jiang Luo disdainfully referred to Princess Royal as "a dying old woman," his mother sharply rebuked him for his insolence. Later, a eunuch suggested Jiang Luo find allies to remove obstacles for him, reminding him that the court was dominated by the Crown Prince's and Ban Family's supporters.

Jiang Luo confidently declared his reliance on the Xie Family. Meanwhile, Eunuch Zhang visited Count Xie, announcing that the Imperial Board of Astronomy had consulted the horoscopes of Prince Luo and Xie Wanyu, confirming their union would be highly auspicious. Count Xie was overjoyed and generously gifted Eunuch Zhang, soliciting his future support. At the same time, Xie Chongjin assured his father via letter that Prince Luo had no alternative but to marry his sister.

In the Xie household, Count Xie berated his daughter, Xie Wanyu, for her passion for cooking, scorning her preference for culinary pursuits over becoming a Princess Consort. Inside the Xie Mansion, Xie Wanyu tearfully lamented her ruined dish and her lack of freedom, contrasting her constrained life with Ban Hua’s uninhibited spirit despite numerous broken engagements. Her brother, Xie Qilin, comforted her, explaining the inherent lack of personal control within noble families, where marriages were often transactional.

He shared his own past experience of breaking an engagement, which led to him losing an eye and their family home being vandalized, and suggested that marrying a "wild" woman like Ban Hua would have resulted in an even more miserable life. He encouraged his sister to focus on the advantages of marrying a prince, assuring her of a higher status than Ban Hua.

While Xie Wanyu admitted her desire for a higher status than Ban Hua, she insisted she disliked her, a sentiment she claimed was shared by all noblewomen. Frustrated by her repeated failures to verify if Jiang Luo was the mysterious "man in black," Ban Hua and her maids discussed her latest attempt. She had been thwarted by Jiang Luo wearing two layers of undergarments, and Rong Xia’s arrival had cut short her opportunity.

Ban Hua declared her resolve to strip Jiang Luo at the upcoming birthday banquet, even if he were wrapped in a quilt. Later, while shopping for dinnerware, Xie Wanyu set her heart on a beautiful, reserved plate. She offered the shop owner double the price, but he refused, explaining that the buyer was someone he dared not offend.

After Xie Wanyu asserted her identity as the future Princess Consort, Ban Heng appeared, revealing himself as the one who had reserved the plate. Citing the principle that a gentleman should be kind to ladies, he relinquished the plate. Surprised, Xie Wanyu purchased it and remarked that "not all Bans are bad." Concurrently, Ban Huai was admiring a painting reserved by Rong Xia. Rong Xia graciously offered it to Ban Huai as a gift for Princess Royal’s birthday.

Impressed, Ban Huai lauded Rong Xia and enthusiastically invited him to drink at Wangyue Tower. Knowing the Emperor’s true intentions, Princess Royal allowed Physician Wang, who had been dispatched to examine her, into her mansion. Before the examination, Madam Chang subtly added something to the Princess Royal's tea. After checking her pulse, Physician Wang pronounced it stable and normal, prescribing only a tonic.

Later, Ban Hua and her mother visited and proposed that their entire family move into the Princess Royal’s mansion to assist with the banquet preparations. Though initially hesitant, the Princess Royal could not refuse when Ban Hua pointed out that the imperial physician had just declared her well, and she reluctantly agreed. That evening, a visibly drunk Ban Huai and Rong Xia stumbled back to the Ban Mansion.

Rong Xia drunkenly referred to Ban Huai as "Uncle Ban," claiming their fathers were childhood friends. As Ban Hua chastised them, Rong Xia’s subordinate, Du Jiu, revealed a significant discovery: a potent drug found within Princess Royal’s mansion. Du Jiu deduced that she was suffering from a severe, long-term illness and had been using this medication to conceal her condition from imperial physicians.

Wang Qu, Rong Xia’s associate, suggested they disseminate news of Princess Royal’s grave illness to incite conflict between the Ban and Shi families, creating an opportunity to search for the missing Tiger Tally in the chaos. Rong Xia, heavily intoxicated, dismissed the idea of spreading rumors, mumbling that informing the Emperor would be a more prudent approach to avoid suspicion.

He was too drunk to formulate a concrete strategy, but his drunken rambling about a time Ban Hua saved an old homeless woman led his subordinates to interpret it as a hint that they could use a similar ruse to infiltrate the mansion. During banquet preparations, Ban Hua and Rong Xia clashed over the decor; she insisted on lavish, sparkling designs, while he advocated for simplicity and thrift.

After they argued to a stalemate, Ban Hua compromised on all other details but adamantly insisted on including Longjing Cake. Rong Xia deemed it too extravagant and refused, causing Ban Hua to storm off. The steward then revealed to Rong Xia that the cake held significant sentimental value, as it was the token of love between Princess Royal and the late General Ban Senior, prompting a thoughtful reaction from Rong Xia.

Jiang Luo, initially dismissive of the banquet, changed his mind after his eunuch informed him that Ban Hua herself had arranged for someone to copy "The Book of Rites" on his behalf. Deciding to attend, he sent carefully selected gifts to Xie Wanyu. At the time, Xie Wanyu was with Shi Feixian, admiring her embroidery and confiding her mixed feelings about Ban Hua.

When Jiang Luo’s eunuch arrived, he explained that the Prince feared the Xie family’s birthday tribute might not be grand enough and wished to subsidize their efforts. Offended by this gesture, Xie Wanyu rejected the gifts, stating that her family did not require his financial assistance and concluding that the Prince was indeed unreliable. That night, Ban Hua awoke in fright from a dream of Princess Royal’s mourning hall.

She immediately sought comfort from her grandmother, tearfully asking to sleep beside her. The following day, Princess Royal confronted Rong Xia, questioning why the Emperor had specifically chosen him to arrange her banquet and noting the growing rumors about his chemistry with Ban Hua. She directly challenged his motives for approaching the Ban family. Unfazed, Rong Xia countered by invoking the memory of General Ban Senior’s death over a decade prior and asked the Princess Royal if she remembered "what happened then."

Episode 9 Recap

Years ago, Rong Xia's father confronted a bedridden General Ban about the missing Tiger Tally. The General insisted it was lost during an assassination attempt and warned that with the Emperor's new and unstable reign, the tally falling into the wrong hands would be disastrous. He urged Rong Xia’s father to find the assassin instead. Shortly after, Rong Xia’s father was murdered.

In the present, Rong Xia recounts this to the Princess Royal, explaining how his mother’s investigation led to his brother's mysterious death and her own suicide by hanging, leaving him orphaned. The Princess Royal vehemently denies the Ban family's involvement. Rong Xia presses that all clues lead back to the Tiger Tally and demands an explanation for his parents' sake.

In response, the Princess Royal warns him to stop his calculated pursuit of Ban Hua, threatening to reveal his clandestine activities to the Emperor. Rong Xia counters by threatening to expose the Princess Royal's own hidden illness. Later, Rong Xia encounters Ban Hua, who confronts him about his cold demeanor. She declares that despite their arguments, she is willing to forgive him over the Longjing Cake incident, but from now on, all decisions regarding the birthday banquet will be hers.

Frustrated by his terse replies, she questions his famed etiquette. He then explains himself, confessing that it was his mistake to ever involve her or her family. He states he has always been accustomed to being alone and promises to never trouble her again, leaving Ban Hua utterly bewildered. Inside the palace, Prince Luo's mood sours as he hears guests praising the Crown Prince's lavish banquet preparations.

When Ban Hua appears, she needles him by saying she was only trying to ward off his recent bad luck, a comment he doesn't appreciate after being forced to copy sutras. Meanwhile, Yan Zhen, son of Minister Yan, nearly stumbles at the mansion entrance but is caught by Ban Hua, leaving him stunned by her beauty. As the banquet's auspicious hour arrives, the Princess Royal is still absent.

A concerned Ban Hua sends two maids to secretly fetch Physician Zhang, her grandmother's regular doctor, while Ban Huai tries to cover for the delay by claiming his mother is still dressing. Unbeknownst to the guests, the Princess Royal has fallen into a coma. Physician Zhang examines her and provides a remedy, stressing that her condition must remain secret to prevent the Xie family from using it to their advantage.

Madam Chang, the Princess's attendant, notes the medicine's unusually dark color. Just as Ban Hua is about to administer it, Rong Xia appears and swiftly knocks the bowl from her hand. He reveals that the medicine is poisoned and urges her not to apprehend Physician Zhang yet, as that would alert the true culprit. Instead, they must follow the lead. In the main hall, Prince Luo challenges the Crown Prince over the Princess Royal's absence.

As Ban Heng offers a bumbling, nonsensical excuse, the impatient Emperor decides to go to her chambers himself. Rong Xia quickly administers an antidote, and the Princess Royal awakens just in time to greet the Emperor, appearing perfectly fine. After the Emperor and Princess Royal proceed to the banquet, Rong Xia instructs his guard, Du Jiu, to follow the departing Physician Zhang.

Du Jiu also reports that a group of unidentified secret guards has infiltrated the mansion undetected by the Ban family's own security. Rong Xia orders him to monitor them and ensure they do not harm the Bans. The banquet resumes, with the Emperor presenting a laudatory text he wrote in his youth, a gesture to publicly affirm the Ban family's honored status.

The Crown Prince then gifts a myna bird, which unfortunately squawks "Long live the Crown Prince," a grave offense. Prince Luo fuels the fire, urging a full investigation, while Ban Huai gets into a shouting match with Xie Chongjin. Ban Hua and the Princess Royal skillfully de-escalate the situation, convincing the Emperor that the Crown Prince meant no harm.

The festivities are interrupted by a riot outside, with commoners claiming they were injured fighting over gold foil distributed by the Ban family. An official, Mei Shengguan, presents a petition signed by the public, accusing the Bans of extravagance and corruption. Prince Luo supports the accusation, but Rong Xia steps forward with detailed account books, proving the banquet was under budget.

He further explains that Ban Hua used the surplus funds, plus a large sum of her own money, to build shelters for the homeless. He suggests the crowd may be there to offer thanks, not protest. Shi Jin arrives with the captured ringleaders, confirming the riot was instigated. Ban Hua tearfully pleads for her family's name to be cleared.

Pleased with their benevolence, the Emperor rewards the family with 500 taels of gold, which Ban Hua accepts on behalf of the homeless, and orders Mei Shengguan to be flogged and stripped of his rank. Later that evening, Ban Hua finds Rong Xia, admitting she is confused by his actions but trusts him.

She expresses a hope that he will one day feel safe enough to be open with her, declaring that he is one of the few people in the entire state she truly cares for. A weary Rong Xia simply excuses himself. Alone, Ban Hua's maid brings her Rong Xia's gift for the Princess—a simple box of pastries.

Seeing how modest it is, Ban Hua dismisses the idea that the sophisticated Rong Xia could be the "man in black" who has been causing trouble. Convinced Prince Luo is the real culprit behind the riot and a previous theft attempt, she dispatches her guards, who find Prince Luo and strip him of his outer robes in the street, leaving him humiliated and enraged.

Elsewhere, Minister Yan scolds his son, Yan Zhen, for wanting to defend the Ban family, warning him that the Bans are inherently wicked. Meanwhile, Xie Chongjin meets with Prince Luo, assuring him that the Crown Prince has lost the Emperor's favor after the day's events. He advises the prince to bide his time and win the Emperor's trust, promising to handle the political schemes and vowing that his sister will become Empress when Luo ascends the throne.

At his family's ancestral tablets, Rong Xia expresses remorse for not having yet avenged his family. He explains to his attendant that he chose not to use the poisoned medicine to force a confession from the Princess Royal because manipulating an innocent person like Ban Hua would make him no different from his parents' murderers. He vows to find justice on his own terms.

Shortly after, Xie Chongjin visits Rong Xia, claiming the Xie family is innocent of the crimes against his father and that the Yan family is the true perpetrator. To prove his point, he argues his own father lacks the cunning for such a plot and hands Rong Xia a letter.

Episode 10 Recap

Princess Royal, Ban Hua's grandmother, explained to Ban Hua that she had hidden her illness because if the senior court officials knew she was sick, they would certainly move against the Ban family. Ban Hua was confused why Physician Zhang, who owed the Princess Royal a debt of gratitude, would poison her. Princess Royal stated that Physician Zhang was timid and must have acted under coercion.

However, she could not see through Rong Xia, warning Ban Hua that he was secretive and a mystery, and she should watch out for him. Ban Hua defended Rong Xia, saying she trusted he would not harm them, and if he did, she would beat him to a pulp. Madam Chang then chided Ban Hua for not acting like a lady.

Madam Chang and the Princess Royal discussed the matter, suspecting Prince Luo, Jiang Luo, was behind the poisoning, likely as a plot against the Crown Prince. As Ban Hua insisted on investigating for her grandmother’s safety, her attendant, Ruan Mianmian, rushed in to announce she had found Physician Zhang's hiding place outside the city. Ban Hua immediately rushed off with her.

They met Rong Xia and his guard Du Jiu, and decided on a plan: Rong Xia would go to the back entrance while Ban Hua would take the front. As they approached the building, Ban Hua noted the open front door was a likely a trap.

Inside, Rong Xia was already engaged in a fight with assassins at the back of the house, while Ruan Mianmian held off more attackers in the courtyard, urging Ban Hua to go help Rong Xia. Du Jiu held off a group of black-clothed men, allowing Rong Xia to lead Physician Zhang away. Rong Xia questioned Physician Zhang about Prince Luo’s motive for wanting the Princess Royal dead.

Physician Zhang began to reveal that he had overheard Prince Luo saying something about "silencing a witness" before he was suddenly shot dead by an arrow. The assassin, who had been masked, revealed himself to be Xie Chongjin. He urged Rong Xia to consider his previous offer, stating that only Prince Luo could help Rong Xia get justice for his family's past tragedy. After delivering his message, Xie Chongjin heard Ban Hua approaching and quickly departed.

When Ban Hua arrived, asking who had killed Physician Zhang, Rong Xia feigned ignorance. Physician Zhang's dying words, "Second. . . Second. . . Second Prince, Jiang Luo!" convinced Ban Hua that Jiang Luo was indeed the one who ordered the poisoning. Enraged, she swore to settle the score, but Rong Xia stopped her, urging her not to jump to conclusions.

Back home, Ban Hua's brother, Ban Heng, was skeptical, initially dismissing Jiang Luo as too incompetent to cause real damage. However, Ban Hua insisted that without Rong Xia's help, they would have been in grave danger. Yin Shi, their mother, suggested they prepare gifts and thank Rong Xia immediately. Ban Hua soon arrived at Rong’s Mansion with a plethora of gifts, claiming they were all for Rong Xia’s cat, Huahua.

Rong Xia politely questioned the abundance of gifts, but Ban Heng, who had secretly followed, exposed Ban Hua's true intention was to see Rong Xia. Ban Hua playfully asked Rong Xia if he was one of those "dull, aloof, and scheming" people who wouldn't like her. Rong Xia skillfully avoided a direct answer, praising Ban Hua’s honest and free spirit, leading to playful banter about the merits of quiet "nerds" versus "wild kitties."

Soon after, the Yan family sent a matchmaker to propose marriage to Ban Hua, offering a valuable family heirloom. Yin Shi, however, firmly rejected the proposal, stating that while the son was acceptable, his mother was a problem. Later, Rong Xia accompanied Ban Hua, and she asked him if he had ever had a crush on a girl.

When Rong Xia said "never," Ban Hua called him a "blockhead" and directly asked him to choose a potential wife from Shi Feixian, Xie Wanyu, and Li Xiaoru. Rong Xia carefully described the virtues of each woman but ultimately stated that marriage required mutual love and could not be forced. Dissatisfied, Ban Hua declared she was going on a date with Yan Zhen to "experience mutual love," prompting a word of caution from Rong Xia.

Ban Heng, aware of Yan Zhen's notorious reputation, warned Ban Hua that he was "Daye's number one mama's boy" and extremely "fussy." Ban Hua imagined a future with Yan Zhen where his mother controlled every aspect of their lives, from their intimate moments to her choice of clothing. Horrified by the vision, Ban Hua concluded life with him would be miserable.

When the matchmaker persisted, Ban Hua publicly declared that she would only marry for mutual love and understanding, dramatically throwing down the offered gift. Meanwhile, Xie Chongjin met with Rong Xia, presenting a memorial document. Rong Xia compared it to another sample of Prime Minister Yan Hui's handwriting and confirmed it was identical, revealing Yan Hui’s involvement in the Rong family’s past tragedy.

Later, at the Shi family banquet, the Crown Prince attempted to discreetly set up Rong Xia and Shi Feixian, using poetic metaphors to suggest their compatibility. However, Ban Hua, interrupting their roundabout attempts, directly asked Shi Feixian if she wished to marry Rong Xia. When Shi Feixian hesitated, Ban Hua then directly asked Rong Xia, who candidly stated that his focus was on court affairs and he had no current plans for marriage, effectively turning her down.

Afterwards, Xie Wanyu, intrigued by Ban Hua’s unique headwear, asked Ban Heng for its design manuscript, offering to make him desserts in return, a deal Ban Heng readily accepted. Yan Zhen then approached Ban Hua and publicly declared his love, claiming it was "love at first sight" and that her "signals" had captivated him. Ban Hua flatly rejected him, stating she didn’t share his feelings and had given no such signals. When Yan Zhen persisted, Rong Xia intervened.

Yan Zhen returned, begging Ban Hua to reconsider. She then posed a hypothetical: what would he do if his wife was free-spirited, didn't want children, or if his mother disapproved? Yan Zhen's responses consistently showed he would prioritize his mother's wishes. Ban Hua concluded that they were not meant to be, as he did not truly consider his partner's feelings, and wished him luck in finding a girl who would obey his mother.

When a bewildered Yan Zhen asked why she was different from other girls, Ban Hua simply replied, "That's just the kind of woman I am." As the evening concluded, Shi Feixian invited Rong Xia to stay for dinner, but he declined, stating he needed to take Ban Hua home. This left Shi Feixian visibly upset. In the carriage, Ban Hua questioned Rong Xia about his constant rejection of the highly-praised Shi Feixian.

When Rong Xia admitted Shi Feixian was indeed attractive, Ban Hua jokingly told him to get out of the moving carriage. Ban Heng finally caught up and hopped aboard. Knowing both Ban Hua and Rong Xia were troubled by constant marriage proposals, he playfully suggested they have a "fake marriage" to deter unwanted suitors. Both immediately rejected the idea, with Rong Xia stating that a woman's reputation and happiness were not to be trifled with.

Ban Heng then revised his suggestion to a "fake engagement," but both Ban Hua and Rong Xia simultaneously blurted out "No!" , fearing the Emperor might then decree a real marriage for them.

Episode 11 Recap

Following their discussion, Ban Hua and Rong Xia agreed that a fake engagement was not a suitable solution for the situation with Yan Zhen. Ban Heng then proposed a wager: whoever could resolve the issue with Yan Zhen without causing physical harm or appealing to His Majesty would win, with the loser owing the winner a single wish. Both Rong Xia and Ban Hua accepted the challenge, each confident in their own victory.

Soon after, Mrs. Yan arrived at the Ban Mansion with a matchmaker to formally propose marriage on her son's behalf, creating a public spectacle with loud pronouncements. Upon learning of the visit, Ban Hua calmly had her servants open the gates, toss a basket of frogs and toads onto the matchmaker’s entourage, and then shut the gates again. Prompted by Ban Hua’s servants, the matchmaker's party began shouting that Mrs. Yan had fainted.

Ban Huai grew concerned about the potential scandal of Mrs. Yan dying at their doorstep, but Ban Hua, citing a military strategy to "lure the enemy in deep," insisted on letting them in. Inside, Ban Hua bluntly informed Mrs. Yan she would not marry her son. When Mrs. Yan suggested discussing the matter over tea, Ban Hua claimed her household had neither tea nor water.

The standoff was interrupted by the arrival of the Princess Royal, who demanded to know if Mrs. Yan was there to propose or to force a marriage. Mrs. Yan pleaded that her son was lovesick and promised to treat Ban Hua well, but the Princess Royal was unyielding, stating her granddaughter would never marry into the Yan family. In response, Mrs. Yan threatened to have her husband and a group of scholars petition His Majesty for an imperial marriage decree.

Enraged by this threat to her grandmother, Ban Hua declared that even if Yan Zhen were the last man alive, she would sooner become a nun than marry him. Mrs. Yan dismissed her words as youthful defiance and smugly claimed His Majesty would support the union, but Ban Hua challenged her, mockingly offering to "play along" if she wished. Prime Minister Yan later sought an audience with His Majesty, ostensibly to apologize for his wife offending the Princess Royal.

When His Majesty deflected, advising him to resolve it with the Princess Royal directly, Prime Minister Yan revealed his true motive: he sought the marriage alliance to counterbalance the growing power of the Shi family, fearing their influence if the Crown Prince were to ascend the throne. While His Majesty acknowledged the political reasoning, he maintained that it was a family matter and left the final decision to the Princess Royal.

Two days later, the gossip about Mrs. Yan's visit had vanished, replaced by a new narrative orchestrated by Mrs. Yan, who had spent a large sum of money to portray her son as a lovesick martyr. Furious, Ban Hua decided to fight fire with fire. After consulting her father, Ban Huai, on finding courtiers who would spread information for a price, a memorial was presented to His Majesty.

It began by criticizing Ban Hua but then pivoted to praising the Yan family with such outrageous hyperbole—claiming the nation's prosperity depended on them—that His Majesty, infuriated by the insolence, ordered the arrest of those spreading the rumors. In the midst of this, Rong Xia’s aide, Du Jiu, and Ban Hua’s servant, Softy, while paying people to spread their respective counter-rumors, discovered they were the opposing forces in this information war.

Count Cheng’an (Rong Xia) defended Ban Hua before His Majesty, arguing that Yan Zhen’s coercive tactics were improper and that forcing a marriage would erode social morals. When His Majesty asked if he had feelings for Ban Hua, Rong Xia denied it, stating that Princess Ban was of such noble status that she was "beyond his reach." He clarified that he was merely helping to resolve a court dispute.

Disappointed, His Majesty promised to personally arrange a marriage for Rong Xia, whom he regarded as a son. Later, the Princess Royal warned Ban Hua to keep her distance from Rong Xia, calling him the Emperor's "henchman" and cautioning that those who thrive so close to power are rarely simple. Ban Hua, however, maintained her belief that while Rong Xia might be cunning, he was not a bad person.

Overjoyed to learn from the Crown Princess that Rong Xia had denied any interest in Ban Hua, Shi Feixian went to a rouge shop, where she ran into Ban Hua. Shi Feixian mockingly congratulated her on the impending marriage, prompting Ban Hua to subtly ridicule her in return, wishing her success in winning over the "swan," Count Cheng’an.

After a sharp exchange over a new batch of rouges, which Ban Hua ultimately claimed, Shi Feixian retorted that while inanimate objects like rouge couldn't refuse Ban Hua, people could, pointedly alluding to her high status making her unapproachable. News of Rong Xia's "beyond his reach" comment reached the Ban family. While her family tried to interpret the words favorably, suggesting he felt unworthy, Ban Hua was deeply angered, seeing it as a personal rejection.

Meanwhile, Xie Chongjin continued to urge Rong Xia to seek revenge for his family's downfall, presenting evidence of the Yan family's corruption. Rong Xia refused to be drawn into court politics, claiming he was no longer interested in old grudges. After he left, Xie Chongjin revealed his plan to Prince Luo: they would use Rong Xia’s desire for revenge as a weakness, first eliminating the Yan family and then redirecting his animosity toward the Princess Royal, forcing his hand.

Later, Rong Xia confided in Du Jiu that he feared the fall of the Yan family would trigger factional strife and bring ruin to countless families, a tragedy he believed his own deceased family would not have wanted. He then gave Du Jiu a letter to deliver to the Ban family, hoping it would aid them. His Majesty summoned Minister Shi and his grandson, Shi Jin, with Rong Xia also present.

After confirming Shi Jin's unmarried status, the Emperor remarked that the proposed Yan-Ban marriage was imperfect. He asked Shi Jin if he would help resolve the matter, and upon his agreement, His Majesty suggested that Shi Jin also harbored feelings for Ban Hua, declaring it a perfect match and instructing Minister Shi to proceed. After the audience, Shi Jin confronted Rong Xia, warning him to stay away from Ban Hua.

Rong Xia countered that marriage requires mutual affection, not just an implied royal wish. Shi Jin questioned his motives for being near Ban Hua despite his professed disinterest, but Rong Xia retorted that if anyone were to harm the princess, he would be the first to protect her, not Shi Jin. Later, Ban Hua saw Rong Xia’s carriage.

Remembering his words and Shi Feixian's taunts, she became angry, interpreting his "beyond my reach" comment not as a sign of respect, but as a deliberate and condescending refusal. As this unfolded, Mrs. Yan escalated her efforts dramatically, arriving at the Ban Mansion with two coffins.

She presented her frail-looking son, Yan Zhen, and declared that if Ban Hua did not agree to the marriage, one coffin was for her son, and the other was for herself, as she knelt and begged the Princess Royal to spare their lives by consenting to the union.

Episode 12 Recap

While Prime Minister Yan Hui tearfully pleaded with the Emperor in court for the marriage between his son, Yan Zhen, and Princess Ban Hua, his wife took drastic measures. Mrs. Yan, disregarding all decorum, threatened to kill her son and then herself to force Ban Hua's hand. Ban Hua confronted her, resolutely declaring she would never marry into the Yan family and that if Yan Zhen were to die, she would willingly pay with her own life.

Back in the palace, as a desperate Yan Hui clung to Ban Huai, several bank notes fell from Ban Huai's robes. Ban Huai revealed that the notes contained evidence of Yan Hui's illicit activities, including buying and selling official posts. Upon reviewing the evidence, the Emperor was enraged and ordered Yan Hui's execution. Rong Xia and Prime Minister Shi Chonghai intervened, arguing that Yan Hui's crimes did not warrant death.

In his desperation, Yan Hui attempted to smear Shi Chonghai, accusing him of similar corruption. The Emperor ultimately decided against execution, instead dismissing Yan Hui from all official posts, imprisoning him, and ordering that double the amount of his ill-gotten gains be confiscated. Mrs. Yan's face turned ashen upon hearing the Imperial Edict. Later, Rong Xia visited Yan Hui in prison, where Yan Hui realized the evidence had come from Rong Xia.

Rong Xia pointed out three critical mistakes Yan Hui had made and offered a deal: if Yan Hui revealed the truth behind the downfall of the Rong family, Rong Xia would ensure the survival of the Yan family. Ban Hua dreamt of being struck by an arrow while wearing a white fox fur cloak. Upon waking, she sketched the cloak's design and instructed Ying Bangbang to have it crafted from the finest white fox fur.

After learning that his sister had also dreamed of Shi Jin, Ban Heng immediately assumed Rong Xia had lost his chance. Grateful for Shi Jin's recent help, Ban Hua decided to teach him the "back-thrust spear" technique passed down by her grandfather, giving him hands-on instruction. Ban Heng then relayed the news of Ban Hua's dream and her interaction with Shi Jin to Rong Xia, urging him to pursue her and offering his full support.

He explained that for Ban Hua, clothing is paramount, so dreaming of Shi Jin alongside a cherished cloak signified his importance. Shi Chonghai observed Shi Jin practicing two specific moves, which Shi Jin admitted were taught to him by Princess Ban Hua. Delighted, Shi Chonghai advised his grandson to give her a return gift to win her heart and informed him that the Ban family was searching for white fox fur.

Shi Jin immediately went hunting for white foxes but was injured in the process. Meanwhile, Rong Xia instructed Du Jiu to take down his deceased mother's white fox fur to give to Ban Hua. However, she showed no interest and instead rushed to visit the injured Shi Jin, personally applying a special medicinal powder to his wound, a moment witnessed by Shi Feixian. Shi Feixian deliberately waited for Rong Xia at a calligraphy shop he frequented.

She pretended to discuss Ban Hua applying medicine to a bare-chested Shi Jin with her maid, ensuring Rong Xia would overhear. Rong Xia remained composed and politely declined Shi Feixian's invitation to talk. Elsewhere, Ban Hua returned home with the prey Shi Jin had hunted for her. Her mother, Mrs. Yin, immediately recognized the gesture from the classic poem "The Dead Roe" as a marriage proposal, though the less-scholarly Ban Hua missed the implication.

The entire idea, including wrapping the prey in white cloth, had come from Shi Chonghai, and the martial-minded Shi Jin was equally oblivious to the poetic meaning. Ban Heng took Rong Xia's white fox fur, had it crafted into a cloak, and urged Rong Xia to bring it to a hot pot dinner at their mansion that evening. Ban Hua was surprised by Rong Xia's arrival and provoked him during the meal.

Unable to watch any longer, Ban Huai revealed the reason for his sister's anger: Rong Xia’s statement to the Emperor that he felt "not good enough" for her. Infuriated, Ban Hua stormed away from the table, and Rong Xia followed to explain. Rong Xia clarified that his words were a sincere expression of his feelings, not an insult.

He described her vibrant personality and the warmth of her family as treasures he had never possessed, admitting he lacked the confidence to provide her with a better future. That was why he had told the Emperor he was not good enough for her. Ban Hua remained angry, accusing him of being insincere and over-complicating things. As she tried to push him away, Rong Xia pulled her into a passionate kiss under the first snowfall, a moment that made Ban Hua momentarily forget everything.

Episode 13 Recap

Ban Hua pressed Rong Xia for the meaning of the poem he had mentioned earlier, insisting she would not be able to sleep without knowing what made the "number one gentleman of Daye" so jealous. Rong Xia explained the concept of the six rituals for marriage, detailing how the poem "There is a Dead Deer in the Wilds" describes a man tempting a maiden with prey, as the living swan geese traditionally used for the rituals are hard to hunt.

Ban Hua then questioned if he believed she was "seduced" by Shi Jin for accepting his prey, to which Rong Xia clarified the difference between temptation and seduction. When Ban Hua asked about the rest of the poem, Rong Xia evasively stated it was "not important" and that she would "know it later." Reflecting on the day's events, Rong Xia confessed that they had clarified his own feelings.

He declared to Ban Hua that he would prepare "wedding presents stretching for ten miles" for her. Ban Hua, overwhelmed, asked him why he was "torturing" her. Soon after, Rong Xia received a thank-you gift sent by Ban Hua in her brother's name: a magnificent painting titled "Full Moon above the Cold Mountain." Recognizing it as a priceless masterpiece, Rong Xia decided to send a return present.

He chose a set of blood-red, yet serene, jewelry that his mother wore on her wedding day, pondering who would be truly worthy of such a beautiful set. The jewelry was delivered to Ban Hua, who showed it to her mother.

Ban Hua’s mother, admiring the exquisite pieces, commented on her daughter growing up and wondered why Rong Xia had not yet come to perform the six rituals of marriage, speculating it might be due to his parents' early demise leaving him unversed in such customs. Ban Hua, however, claimed she was not in a hurry. Unbeknownst to her, her grandmother, the Princess Royal, and her mother had already prepared her dowry long ago, simply awaiting a worthy suitor.

Later that night, the Princess Royal secretly summoned Rong Xia. She revealed that both her late husband, General Ban, and Rong Xia's father had died from jequirity poison. However, their deaths differed: Rong Xia's father died suddenly, while General Ban suffered a prolonged illness. Their families subsequently declined, while the Yan and Xie families prospered. Rong Xia pressed for substantial evidence, but the Princess Royal admitted she had none.

She urged Rong Xia to stop his pursuit of revenge, especially since the Yan family had already collapsed, and warned him against using the Ban family as a tool, vowing she would not stand idly by if he did. Rong Xia insisted he no longer intended to use the Ban family. Madam Chang, the Princess Royal's longtime attendant, later observed her mistress's continued worry.

The Princess Royal, recalling Physician Zhang's warning that a particular golden elixir was like "quenching thirst by drinking poison," consumed the final dose to hide her failing health before preparing to enter the Palace. Prime Minister Shi presented a Tiger Tally to the Emperor, claiming he had found it in the Princess Royal's mansion. However, the Emperor, having noticed a damaged corner, grew enraged, accusing Prime Minister Shi of deception.

The Prime Minister then cunningly suggested that the fake Tiger Tally in the Princess Royal's possession implied she also held the real one and was plotting a rebellion. At that moment, the Princess Royal arrived, admitted her "guilt" and explained that she had lost a fake Tiger Tally.

She clarified that after General Ban's passing, she had commissioned a replica of his treasured Tiger Tally to cope with her grief, specifically made from fragile casting sand to ensure its obvious falsity. The Emperor, dismissing Prime Minister Shi's insinuations, assured his "Aunt" that no one could sow discord between them. Afterwards, the Princess Royal subtly suggested to Shi Chonghai that their families could make peace through a marriage alliance, an idea he readily accepted.

The Princess Royal, having prepared herself with meticulous makeup to hide her illness, attended the Ban family banquet. Shi Jin arrived, having been personally invited by her to subtly promote a match between him and Ban Hua. Rong Xia also appeared, stating he was invited by Ban Hua herself. A subtle rivalry began, with Rong Xia gifting Ban Hua a rare rouge from the Western Regions.

The Princess Royal deliberately brought up the recent incident involving the Yan family, thanking Shi Jin for his intervention. Ban Huai attempted to give credit to Rong Xia, but Rong Xia modestly stopped him. The competition between Rong Xia and Shi Jin then escalated as they vied for Ban Hua's attention by piling food onto her plate, creating an awkward atmosphere. After the banquet, the Princess Royal confronted Rong Xia, questioning his actions.

He explained that while he understood her aims, he disagreed with her methods and was determined to uncover the truth about his family's past while sincerely protecting Ban Hua. The Princess Royal remained skeptical. Meanwhile, Ban Hua accompanied Shi Jin outside. Acknowledging the Princess Royal's matchmaking, Shi Jin promised not to pressure Ban Hua, vowing to win her heart genuinely. When Ban Hua expressed she had no desire for marriage, he declared he would wait for her indefinitely.

Later, Rong Xia approached Ban Hua and boldly declared his feelings, calling her the "most attractive prey" and asserting his desire to be the "only hunter who can have" her. Afterwards, the Princess Royal and Ban Hua strolled through the garden. Seeing a pomegranate tree, the Princess Royal reminisced about her late husband, recalling how their hands touching while picking up a fallen pomegranate led to a lifetime together.

She assured Ban Hua that she too would find someone truly devoted. Later, Akeqi, the Prince of Aipo, arrived in the capital for the Emperor's birthday. In a separate event, Shi Jin was promoted to Deputy Commander of the Imperial Guard, and Ban Hua complimented his handsome new armor, to which he replied she looked like a moon goddess. At the palace, Ban Hua kindly spoke to a young eunuch, naming him Xiao Yuanzi.

Akeqi observed this and mistakenly believed Ban Hua to be the renowned "No. 1 talented woman in Daye." During the Emperor's birthday banquet, Ban Hua, wearing the beautiful blood jade jewelry from Rong Xia, drew admiring gazes. Shi Feixian teased her about the potential "good news" with Rong Xia. Akeqi, after presenting his gift, boldly requested to marry Daye's "No. 1 talented woman," specifying she was surnamed Shi and known for poetry and painting.

Prime Minister Shi humbly tried to decline on behalf of his granddaughter. To everyone's astonishment, Akeqi then walked directly to Ban Hua, knelt, and asked her to marry him, leaving Ban Hua utterly shocked by the case of mistaken identity.

Episode 14 Recap

During a grand banquet, Prince Akeqi of Aipo, who had intended to propose to Shi Feixian, mistakenly knelt before Ban Hua. After Ban Hua corrected him, the unfazed prince declared her more beautiful and asked the Emperor for her hand in marriage instead. News of this spread quickly, with the public gossiping that Ban Hua had surpassed Shi Feixian as the most desirable noblewoman in the capital.

To add to the festivities, Prince Akeqi proposed a game he designed called "Exciting Hunting." With the foreign delegation's team needing one more player, Akeqi requested Ban Hua's participation. The Emperor agreed, ordering Ban Hua to assist the prince without holding back against the Daye team. The rules were simple: participants used dye-tipped arrows, and anyone hit was eliminated, with the last one standing declared the winner.

The Emperor and his court watched the competition's progress on a miniature map of the grounds. The game began with the Daye team's formation quickly breaking. Prince Chengqian was isolated until his teammates rescued him. His brother, Jiang Luo, was seen chasing him, which observers on the sidelines praised as a clever ruse to deceive the foreign team. However, Jiang Luo’s true intent was to eliminate the Crown Prince.

Ban Hua intervened and shot Jiang Luo, but as he was eliminated, he managed to fire a final arrow that also took Prince Chengqian out of the game. The competition came down to four players: Shi Jin, Rong Xia, Prince Akeqi, and Ban Hua. When Shi Jin confronted Ban Hua and Akeqi, he prepared to shoot the prince. Ban Hua shielded her teammate and swiftly eliminated Shi Jin. Later, Ban Hua and Rong Xia faced each other.

Rong Xia took her hand and called her "Hua'hua," explaining his flirtatious distraction was a tactic "for Daye." Playing along, Ban Hua turned the tables by pulling him into an embrace, intentionally exposing his back to Akeqi, who seized the chance to eliminate Rong Xia. With that, Prince Akeqi won the competition. Akeqi graciously credited his victory to his partnership with Ban Hua, delighting the Emperor, who awarded them both 100 taels of gold.

Though his proposal was rejected, Akeqi was so impressed by Ban Hua's character that he asked her to become his sworn sister. Ban Hua agreed, and Akeqi gifted her a golden knife as a symbol of their bond. After the banquet, feeling that Rong Xia had used a "beauty trap" on her during the game, Ban Hua had her brother, Ban Heng, sabotage Rong Xia’s carriage. Unbothered, Rong Xia politely borrowed an umbrella from her.

Shi Feixian then approached, offering Rong Xia her umbrella and a ride in her carriage, but he declined, citing the impropriety of a man and woman sharing a carriage. Heartbroken and furious, Shi Feixian returned to her room and, in a jealous rage, swept everything from her table, despairing that she couldn't compare to Ban Hua.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shi urged his son, Shi Jin, to press forward with his marriage to Ban Hua, revealing that the Grand Princess had already approved the match. He explained that the union would make it easier to search for the hidden Tiger Tally within the Ban family estate. The Emperor's health continued to decline. He confided in Rong Xia, entrusting him to assist the Crown Prince with matters of state.

Shortly after, Jiang Luo attempted to sway Rong Xia to his side by revealing a stunning secret: the Grand Princess was the true mastermind behind the massacre of the Rong family. With a famine devastating the country, Jiang Luo praised an official, Xie Chongjin, whose county had managed to increase its tax revenue. Rong Xia supported the recommendation, and the Emperor summoned Xie Chongjin to the capital for a promotion.

However, villagers soon arrived to petition the Grand Princess, accusing Xie Chongjin of embezzling the relief funds she had donated. Ban Hua overheard and immediately set off for the palace to report him. On her way, she was intercepted by Shi Jin. Concerned that Ban Hua would be drawn into dangerous court politics, he promised to report the crime on her behalf.

Just as the Emperor was commending Jiang Luo for his recommendation, Shi Jin arrived and exposed Xie Chongjin’s embezzlement. Enraged, the Emperor ordered Xie's immediate execution, but Rong Xia and the Crown Prince intervened, urging a thorough investigation. Xie Chongjin was imprisoned instead. Upon hearing the news, Xie’s father assumed Prime Minister Shi had conspired with the Ban family to frame his son.

Later, the Emperor expressed his suspicion to Rong Xia about the convenient timing of Xie Chongjin’s downfall, wondering if it was a scheme by the Shi family. Rong Xia advised that to uncover the truth, the Grand Princess's cooperation would be necessary. He also reaffirmed his commitment to help the Emperor locate the Tiger Tally, which was rumored to be hidden in the Grand Princess's residence, to prevent it from being used to rally Old General Ban's still-loyal former soldiers.

Episode 15 Recap

Jiang Luo visited Xie Chongjin in prison, complaining about the foul smell. Xie Chongjin implied Jiang Luo was to blame for his predicament, stating he wouldn't be there if Jiang Luo hadn't rushed him back to the capital. Jiang Luo countered that he was forced to act quickly after his father secretly summoned the Crown Prince, leaving him no choice but to use Princess Royal’s disaster relief funds since he lacked the Ban family’s wealth.

Xie Chongjin, feeling helpless in prison, was unable to offer advice. Jiang Luo promised to arrange his release, but admitted he still didn't fully trust Rong Xia, despite Rong Xia having defended Xie Chongjin before His Majesty that day. Xie Chongjin, however, remained unconcerned, confident that his elaborate "interlocked stratagems" would be sufficient to ruin Rong Xia if he proved disloyal. Meanwhile, Cui was caught by Madam Chang attempting to secretly place a bracelet in Princess Royal's study.

He feigned tidying the dust-covered room. Shortly after, Rong Xia arrived at the Mansion of Peace and Longevity with soldiers, citing an imperial edict to search for hidden individuals and protect the mansion from thieves and refugees. Madam Chang vehemently resisted, asserting the loyalty of the Princess Royal's long-serving staff and warning against disturbing Her Highness. Rong Xia insisted he was merely following His Majesty's direct orders and, when Madam Chang refused to yield, ordered her arrest.

Ban Hua then stepped forward, attempting to block Rong Xia and threatening him directly. Rong Xia reiterated the imperial order, but Ban Hua refused to move. Princess Royal intervened, ordering Madam Chang to take Ban Hua to a side hall for rest. Princess Royal then allowed Rong Xia to proceed with the search. Ban Hua questioned why His Majesty would send Rong Xia, a friend of the Ban family, and why Rong Xia was so determined.

During his search, Rong Xia located the bracelet in Princess Royal's study. Rong Xia then confronted Princess Royal with the bracelet, identifying it as his deceased mother's bequest. He accused Princess Royal of concealing it and implied her involvement in his parents' unexplained deaths, questioning how she could have slept soundly all these years. Enraged, Princess Royal spat blood. Ban Hua rushed to her grandmother’s side, furiously demanding to know what Rong Xia had done.

Rong Xia evaded her direct questions, stating he had only asked Princess Royal a few questions and Ban Hua should inquire with her grandmother for the reason behind her distress. Ban Hua, accusing him of betraying his promise to protect her grandmother and threatening to report him to His Majesty, was met with Rong Xia’s calm assertion that he would report everything himself.

Jiang Luo, upon hearing of Princess Royal's condition, was overjoyed, anticipating the downfall of the Ban family and the dethronement of the Crown Prince. However, Rong Xia later met with Jiang Luo and clarified that Princess Royal must remain alive, as he intended to extract information about the Tiger Tally from her. Intrigued, Jiang Luo agreed to this revised plan, seeing the potential for greater power.

Ban Hua, filled with regret, confided in her grandmother that she shouldn't have trusted Rong Xia. Princess Royal comforted her, acknowledging that His Majesty might have acted without fear, knowing her time was short. Princess Royal then expressed a sudden longing for pomegranates. Since pomegranates were out of season, Ban Hua, with the help of her maids, set about making symbolic "dough pomegranates," which, after much effort, they successfully completed.

Princess Royal's health continued to deteriorate, and despite Madam Chang's misgivings, she insisted on taking more of her "golden pellets." Ban Hua brought the freshly made dough pomegranates, and Princess Royal received them with delight. The next day, after observing the sleeping Ban Hua and noting their striking resemblance and Ban Hua's fiery spirit, Princess Royal decided to go to the palace, expressing her wish to die in the Daye Imperial Palace, where she was born.

Dressed meticulously, she arrived to meet Emperor Yunqing. She casually told His Majesty she had come uninvited, and they reminisced about his childhood, recalling a specific memory of him as a young boy bringing her a snow-covered branch. Princess Royal reaffirmed her steadfast affection for His Majesty, regardless of time or circumstances. Meanwhile, Ban Hua awoke from a terrifying nightmare foreboding her grandmother's death, instinctively sensing danger, and immediately rode her horse towards the palace.

Ban Hua's frantic rush to the palace was intercepted by Shi Jin and the imperial guards. She was knocked from her horse but defiantly threatened anyone who stood in her way. Rong Xia arrived shortly after, urging Ban Hua to trust him and promising to take her to Princess Royal. He decisively forced his way past the guards, accepting full responsibility for violating palace rules. Inside, a tea servant drew a hidden blade, lunging at Emperor Yunqing.

Without hesitation, Princess Royal shielded His Majesty, taking the fatal blow herself. Rong Xia carried Ban Hua into the palace, where she found her grandmother gravely wounded. The imperial physician regretfully pronounced that Princess Royal’s wound was beyond cure. Ban Hua was distraught. Princess Royal, in her final moments, called for Ban Hua and her parents, Ban Huai and Madam Yin.

She asked Ban Hua if she was married and who her husband was, then, looking at Rong Xia, implored him to "be nice to Hua." Her last wish was to be buried alongside her beloved husband, Old General Ban. Her family wept as she passed away. Following Princess Royal’s death, Rong Xia immediately approached Emperor Yunqing, requesting a marriage by imperial order to Ban Hua, stating his long-standing admiration for Countess Fule and his pledge to Princess Royal.

Although surprised, His Majesty eventually granted the request. Princess Royal was mourned with the highest honors, receiving the posthumous title of Princess Royal Dening and being interred with Old General Ban in the Ban family's ancestral hall, as per her dying wish. A three-month period of national mourning was declared, accompanied by a general amnesty. Taking advantage of the amnesty, Xie Chongjin was released from prison.

Simultaneously, Madam Chang cornered Cui, who pleaded for forgiveness, admitting his greed, but Madam Chang exacted her vengeance for his betrayal, killing him. Jiang Luo confronted Xie Chongjin, frustrated that Rong Xia and the Ban family seemed to be growing closer instead of warring. Xie Chongjin redirected Jiang Luo’s focus, asserting that the Ban family and Rong Xia were no longer the priority. Instead, the true key to power lay in obtaining the Tiger Tally, which would grant military control.

Emperor Yunqing, overwhelmed by grief, neglected the investigation into the assassination. Rong Xia urged His Majesty to address the matter, suggesting Princess Royal would not rest peacefully otherwise. When Shi Jin reported his failure to uncover the assassin's origins, enraging Emperor Yunqing, Rong Xia volunteered to personally investigate the case, earning the Emperor’s complete trust. Later, at the memorial hall, Ban Hua confronted Rong Xia, demanding answers.

She questioned how he knew she would rush to the palace that fateful day, why he insisted on searching the Mansion of Peace and Longevity, and, most importantly, what he had truly done to her grandmother in the study. Ban Hua directly threatened him, vowing that if he had any involvement in her grandmother's death, she would never forgive him.

Episode 16 Recap

Following the passing of the Princess Royal, Ban Hua was distraught. To lift her spirits, Ban Heng suggested they go listen to a famous storyteller at the Feixian House. Ban Hua, however, responded with a bittersweet remark, acknowledging Ban Heng’s efforts and offering him money to go alone. Meanwhile, His Majesty offered Ban Huai a promotion from Marquis Jingting to Duke Jingting.

Ban Huai humbly declined, citing a lack of contributions, but His Majesty insisted, declaring that he would personally care for the Ban family to ensure their peace of mind. At the same time, Ban Hua requested to reject her engagement to Count Cheng’an. Her stated reasons were to fulfill her filial duty by guarding her grandmother’s memorial tablet and her lack of affection for Count Cheng’an.

Despite His Majesty’s concern about the hardship of such a duty, Ban Hua remained resolute. Impressed by her filial piety, His Majesty reluctantly agreed to postpone the marriage. Ban Hua then made a final visit to the Mansion of Peace and Longevity. Inside the familiar estate, every corner held memories of her beloved grandmother.

As she grieved, she recalled a tender moment from her childhood when she and Ban Heng presented gifts to their grandmother—Ban Hua a clumsy embroidery, and Ban Heng a supposedly authentic official porcelain from a former dynasty, which Ban Hua quickly dismissed as a fake. Their grandmother, however, cherished their intentions above all, reminding them that their presence was the true gift.

Ban Hua resolved to keep smiling, just as her grandmother loved to see, vowing that no one would ever bully the Ban family in the capital. Outside the ancestral hall, Rong Xia observed Ban Hua from a distance. Learning that she had not eaten or drunk for days, Akeqi rushed in, urging her to eat. He offered her jerky, a specialty from his home state, but Ban Hua found it unappealing.

Although she refused the jerky, she accepted a unique umbrella Akeqi had crafted himself, marveling at his unexpected skill. Akeqi persisted, trying to convince Ban Hua to marry him and return to the prairie, but she firmly dismissed the idea, telling him to wait until her next life. Later, Ban Heng brought food for Ban Hua. She started to eat the porridge, but upon seeing the character “Rong” on the food box, she realized it was sent by Rong Xia.

Still upset by his perceived deceit, she refused to eat. Outside, Rong Xia was visibly anxious. His steward, Uncle Rong, advised him that perhaps Ban Hua desired honesty more than food. Taking this to heart, Rong Xia approached Ban Hua at the Princess Royal’s tablet, prepared to reveal the full truth. Rong Xia explained that before he searched the Mansion of Peace and Longevity, he had met with the Princess Royal.

She had given him his mother’s last letter, which revealed the tragic history of their families. His Majesty, fearing General Ban’s Tiger Tally, had silently sanctioned a scheme by Yan Hui. Exploiting the close ties between the Ban and Rong families, Yan Hui coerced Rong Xia’s father to seize the Tiger Tally—a ruthless trap where either the Ban family or the Rong family would be destroyed.

The Rong family was ultimately annihilated; Rong Xia’s father was executed, and his brother was assassinated. His mother exchanged her life to save him, entrusting him to the Princess Royal, who then sent him to the Crown Prince for protection. Rong Xia further disclosed that he and the Princess Royal, assessing the court’s volatile state, had used the enemy’s own trick against them by deceiving the traitorous butler, Cui.

He never anticipated, however, that the Princess Royal would sacrifice her own life to ensure the Ban family’s safety. She had endured years of hardship, concealing her true capabilities, but expressed no regrets. The Princess Royal then entrusted Ban Hua’s well-being to Rong Xia, who swore to protect her and never betray that trust.

Finally understanding the Princess Royal’s painstaking efforts, Ban Hua learned that the assassin had been arranged by her grandmother herself—a desperate measure to gain His Majesty’s sympathy and protect the Ban family from further harm. Despite this, Ban Hua was furious with Rong Xia for keeping the truth from her, blaming him for her grandmother’s sacrifice. She accused him of constant scheming that she claimed ultimately cost her grandmother’s life.

Rong Xia denied plotting against the Princess Royal, explaining that she was already terminally ill and he had only agreed to her plan to protect the Ban family from future suffering. Unconvinced and heartbroken, Ban Hua ordered him to leave. As he departed, Ban Hua watched his solitary figure, tears streaming down her face. After days without food, compounded by her overwhelming grief, Ban Hua succumbed to a cold and fainted.

Her parents, Ban Huai and Yin Shi, were deeply worried. Yin Shi reflected that they needed to carefully consider what was truly best for Ban Hua. Later, Shi Jin approached Ban Hua, reaffirming his feelings for her. He pledged to protect and cherish her, promising to wait until she had moved on from Count Cheng’an. Ban Hua, however, gently turned him down.

She confided in him about her recurring, prophetic dreams: the Xie family breaking off their engagement, Xie Qilin being blind, her grandmother’s death, and finally, the Ban family’s downfall. Fearing she would implicate others, she sought to avoid any attachments. Shi Jin expressed disbelief that a mere dream could scare her, noting it was unlike the Ban Hua he knew. She thanked him but apologized, reiterating her decision.

Reflecting on a message from her grandmother, who wished for her to live a free and unburdened life, Ban Hua urged Ban Heng to take his role as the family’s only male heir seriously. She made him promise to diligently practice martial arts under Softy’s supervision, emphasizing that if her premonitions came true, he would have to protect their family. Showing newfound maturity, Ban Heng agreed. Meanwhile, Xie Chongjin visited Rong Xia, representing Prince Luo.

He accused Rong Xia of leveraging the search of the Princess Royal’s mansion to secure his engagement to Ban Hua for political maneuvering. He questioned the whereabouts of the Tiger Tally, suggesting it was hidden in Duke Jingting’s Mansion, a theory supported by the fact that Minister Shi had sent an agent to infiltrate the residence. Xie Chongjin then proposed that with Rong Xia's marriage, he could easily obtain the Tiger Tally.

In exchange for Rong Xia’s help, Prince Luo would gain significant power and would, in turn, grant Rong Xia whatever he desired. Rong Xia, however, recalled his conversation with the Princess Royal and knew she had already entrusted the highly coveted item to him. Elsewhere, Softy caught Ban Heng trying to sneak out of his martial arts practice. Ban Heng quickly concocted a story about needing to confirm urgent information regarding Prince Luo.

Shortly after, Mr. Yao approached Rong Xia, attempting to arrange a marriage between him and Shi Feixian. Rong Xia politely declined, stating he was already engaged but could not reveal his fiancée's identity during the Princess Royal’s mourning period, asking for discretion.

Episode 17 Recap

Mr. Yao reported to Shi Chonghai that Count Cheng’an had refused the matchmaking proposal, and he dared not press further. Mr. Yao then inquired if Shi Chonghai recalled the eloquent and loyal servant who used to accompany the old Count Rong. Shi Chonghai confirmed he remembered him, prompting Mr. Yao to mention that the old butler at Cheng’an’s Mansion strikingly resembled the former servant, yet he seemed not to recognize Mr. Yao at all.

Shi Chonghai speculated that perhaps they were both old and might have simply misremembered. Meanwhile, at a shop, Xie Wanyu was selecting plates, dissatisfied despite being shown the best options. Ban Heng, demonstrating his expertise, advised her on the value of a specific glazed plate, calling it a "limited edition." He then taught her his four-step method for assessing quality: "look, listen, compare, and touch."

The shop assistant, observing their friendly banter, remarked on their intimacy and guessed they were choosing a dowry. Xie Wanyu vehemently denied she would marry Ban Heng, who retorted that he wouldn't marry her either. Annoyed, Xie Wanyu stomped on his foot, calling him a "rogue" before storming out. Ban Hua awoke from a terrifying nightmare, her face pale. She had dreamt of Rong Xia being stabbed.

Moments later, Rocky rushed in with alarming news: something terrible had happened at Cheng’an’s Mansion, and someone had died. Ban Heng, overhearing, fretted that if Count Cheng’an had truly died, his sister’s reputation for bringing misfortune to her fiancés would be sealed. Panicked, Ban Hua hurried to the mansion. There, she found a coffin and, believing Rong Xia was inside, wept hysterically, demanding Du Jiu reveal the murderer's identity.

Du Jiu calmly explained that Butler Rong had been struck by an out-of-control carriage the previous day and had died from his injuries. Only then did Ban Hua realize that Rong Xia was alive and the deceased was his butler. Seeing her distress, Rong Xia led her away for a private talk. Rong Xia pressed Ban Hua for an explanation, and she finally confessed her secret: she possessed the ability to foresee the future through her dreams.

She recounted a series of premonitions that had all come true, including her broken engagement, Xie Qilin’s blindness, and her grandmother’s death. Her most recent nightmare depicted Rong Xia being killed and the Ban family’s downfall, which was why she had deliberately kept her distance from him, fearing she would bring him harm. His heart unburdened by the truth, Rong Xia embraced her tightly.

He confessed that he had been alone his whole life until he met her and that he did not fear death as long as they could be together. He vowed that with him by her side, the Ban family would never fall, and he would protect her and her family as his own. Overwhelmed by emotion and exhaustion, Ban Hua fainted. Rong Xia carried her to his residence and summoned a physician.

Later, he gently coaxed her to drink her medicine, playfully teasing that her reluctance was a ploy to spend more time with him. Afterward, Rong Xia asked Du Jiu about Butler Rong’s death. Du Jiu expressed his suspicion that the incident was not a simple accident, and Rong Xia ordered him to investigate thoroughly. At the Ban residence, Ban Huai, Yin Shi, and Ban Heng were discussing Rong Xia’s potential proposal when he arrived with a recovering Ban Hua.

After Rocky took Ban Hua to her room to rest, Rong Xia formally addressed her parents, announcing his intention to fulfill the late Grand Princess’s wish by marrying Ban Hua. Despite Ban Huai’s initial playful reluctance, Rong Xia’s heartfelt vows—promising a lifetime of love and protection, and swearing to face ruin and a lonely death if he ever broke his word—won them over.

Yin Shi raised a concern about Ban Hua’s lack of interest in poetry and books, but Rong Xia assured her that he loved Ban Hua for her unique spirit and would never try to change her. Moved, Yin Shi and Ban Huai gave their blessing, reminding him that winning Ban Hua's own consent was now his task. Later, Rong Xia invited Ban Hua to his residence to listen to him play the zither.

He then led her to a balcony with a beautiful view of the city at night. Struggling for words, he finally blurted out, "Marry me." Just then, Ban Heng, who had secretly followed them, appeared, declaring he couldn't miss his sister's "big moment." Ban Hua joked that she wasn't ready to give up her single life, but Rong Xia earnestly replied that the wedding date would be entirely her decision, and he would wait for her.

Curious, Ban Hua asked when he first fell for her. Rong Xia stumbled over his answer, first mentioning the autumn hunt, which prompted Ban Hua to tease that he meant the time he "took advantage" of her in the bush. He then cited shooting arrows while drunk, before finally settling on the ice-skating incident, admitting he was unknowingly drawn to her even then.

He added that getting to know her family gave him a sense of home he had long missed, solidifying his conviction that she was his only match. Ban Hua then asked what he would do if the Ban family faced disaster, and he vowed to protect them. Moved by his sincerity, she finally agreed. Overjoyed, Rong Xia called for Du Jiu to bring the love knots he had prepared.

Ban Heng and Rocky cheered as Ban Hua and Rong Xia exchanged the knots, promising to be inseparable. Rong Xia promptly informed the Emperor that Ban Hua had accepted his proposal. The Emperor was delighted, noting that this union fulfilled the Grand Princess’s dying wish. He then urged Rong Xia to continue investigating the Grand Princess's assassination to bring the Ban family justice. Meanwhile, Softy continued to train Ban Heng in sword practice.

Ban Heng complained and tried to distract Ban Hua, suggesting she had agreed to the marriage too quickly and should have involved Shi Jin to make things more dramatic. Ban Hua dismissed the idea, expressing suspicion that Shi Jin might be the "man in black," and ordered Ban Heng to resume his training. Later, Rong Xia took Ban Hua to a popular noodle shop. As he went to order dumplings, Shi Jin arrived and greeted Ban Hua.

When Rong Xia returned, he affectionately put his arm around Ban Hua and bluntly informed Shi Jin that they were engaged. Ban Hua confirmed it, leaving Shi Jin heartbroken. As it began to rain, Rong Xia and Ban Hua left hand-in-hand, while a devastated Shi Jin walked home, completely drenched. At the Shi mansion, Shi Feixian was dismayed to find her brother soaked and quickly learned of Rong Xia's engagement.

Heartbroken, she refused to believe Rong Xia could love anyone but her, convinced his fiancée must have manipulated him. Shi Jin suggested that it might be true love, but Shi Feixian rejected the thought, vowing to prove to all of Daye that she was Rong Xia's only true match. Later, at a poetry party she was hosting, other ladies speculated about the identity of Rong Xia's mysterious fiancée.

To everyone’s surprise, Ban Hua arrived, explaining that Rong Xia had insisted she come. Rong Xia then entered, thanked Shi Feixian for the invitation, and formally introduced Ban Hua as his fiancée. Shi Feixian’s face fell as she realized her rival was none other than Ban Hua.

Episode 18 Recap

At the poetry party, a stunned Shi Feixian confronted Rong Xia, demanding to know when he and Ban Hua became engaged. Ban Hua interjected, pointing out that Shi Feixian was questioning her fiancé, but Rong Xia calmly confirmed he had proposed just a few days prior. Humiliated, Shi Feixian tried to leave with tears in her eyes, but Ban Hua stopped her, concerned that her tearful departure would make it seem as though Ban Hua had bullied her.

Shi Feixian retorted that Ban Hua was overestimating herself, listing her own accomplishments in the fine arts and her prestigious family background, questioning what an "ignorant woman" like Ban Hua could possibly have to bully her with. Alone later, Shi Feixian lamented losing Rong Xia to Ban Hua and vowed she would win him back, certain she would never lose to her in beauty.

Meanwhile, with her wedding delayed by three months, an idle Xie Wanyu decided to cook steamed chicken with scallion oil for her brother, Xie Chongjin. Though her maid was worried about being punished, Xie Wanyu promised to cover any docked wages. Xie Chongjin allowed his sister to cook but then insisted she present her specialty to the visiting Prince Luo. However, the arrogant prince refused to even taste it, declaring he only ate food prepared by the royal cook.

Enraged, Xie Wanyu muttered that she would rather feed the dish to a dog. Just then, Ban Heng appeared, snatched the chicken, and devoured it, proclaiming it the best he had ever tasted. Xie Wanyu was secretly delighted to find someone who genuinely appreciated her cooking. Later at court, the Emperor discussed upcoming marriages now that the mourning period had ended. He praised Ban Hua’s beauty, and Rong Xia expressed his commitment to being worthy of her.

Ban Hua then boldly stated her marital terms: Rong Xia could only have her as his wife, or she would divorce him, taking all her dowry and half his assets. While other officials were shocked by this breach of tradition, Rong Xia readily agreed, affirming his lifelong devotion and vowing never to take a concubine.

The Emperor, fond of Ban Hua, approved their arrangement and also announced that a new auspicious date had been chosen for Xie Wanyu’s marriage to Prince Luo. Leaving the palace, Ban Hua playfully placed a silk flower she bought from a street vendor on Rong Xia’s head. Their lighthearted moment was interrupted when Ban Hua spotted a suspicious figure she recognized as Prince Luo and decided to follow him.

She discovered him secretly meeting Shi Feixian, holding her hand and confessing his love for her. Shi Feixian, in turn, asked him to help her "destroy" Ban Hua. Ban Hua dramatically revealed herself, chastising the prince for his behavior. She then forced him to apologize to Shi Feixian before warning Shi Feixian that secrets have a way of getting out and that she should stay away from the temperamental prince.

That night, Ban Hua dreamt of Prince Luo in a prison cell, waking with a smile. Inspired by tales of Rong Xia’s parents being a "fairy couple" skilled in the arts, Ban Hua resolved to learn them to be a better match for him. She first attempted the zither but only managed to break a string and tangle her hair.

Next, she tried Go, but even with Rong Xia giving her a twenty-stone handicap, she repeatedly lost and accused him of cheating. Her attempt at painting was no better, as her goldfish and turtle resembled steamed buns. When Rong Xia tried to encourage her by mentioning Shi Feixian had practiced for a decade, Ban Hua furiously misinterpreted it as a comparison. Later, she resumed her zither practice, but her playing was so awful it made her father, Ban Huai, vomit.

Realizing how bad she was, she directed her anger at Rong Xia for his false encouragement. Witnessing the fallout, Ban Heng offered to teach Rong Xia how to placate women, suggesting a trip to a brothel to "accumulate experience." Upon learning Ban Heng had taken Rong Xia to a brothel, Ban Hua stormed in. To her surprise, the courtesans were her fans, praising her for rescuing a woman named Yun-niang and eagerly offering to help find Rong Xia.

They led her to Ban Heng, who insisted Rong Xia was not there. In truth, Rong Xia was at an archery range, realizing his own lack of natural skill and understanding that his dishonesty about Ban Hua's playing was a disservice. When Ban Hua arrived, her anger gone, Rong Xia sincerely apologized for misleading her. He then humbly asked her to teach him archery, and she happily agreed. Elsewhere, Ban Heng and Xie Wanyu shared a meal at an inn.

That night, Xie Wanyu sat alone, gazing pensively at her wedding dress. The next day, Xie Wanyu confessed to her brother that she no longer wanted to marry Prince Luo, sensing he didn't truly love her. Xie Chongjin falsely reassured her of the Prince's affection and promised to secure her position, but advised her to stay away from Shi Feixian.

Later, Ban Hua explained to Rong Xia that she only tried to learn the arts to be a "fairy couple" like his parents. Rong Xia gently told her she didn't need to change, as he loved her for who she was—her passion for riding, archery, beautiful clothes, and desserts. Reassured by his devotion, Ban Hua gave him a kiss on the cheek before happily running off.

Episode 19 Recap

Ban Hua playfully rewarded Rong Xia with a kiss, much to the shock of her maids, who exclaimed that it was inappropriate for an unmarried young lady. Ban Hua, however, was unfazed, declaring it wasn't their first kiss and that she would wear a dazzling dress to Prince Luo's wedding to see if her dream would come true. The next day, Rong Xia waited an hour for Ban Hua before they entered Prince Luo's wedding ceremony hand-in-hand.

Rong Xia showed concern for Ban Hua's comfort, even offering snacks from his carriage. He instructed his subordinate, Du Jiu, to help her maid, Miss Ruan, carry her belongings, reminding him to be a gentleman. Inside, Shi Feixian presented Xie Wanyu with a large, precious luminous pearl as a wedding gift. Despite the lavish present, Xie Wanyu confided in Shi Feixian that she was uncertain about the marriage.

The Empress arrived, gifting Xie Wanyu her own old wedding items and advising her to seek help if she ever felt wronged by Jiang Luo. As the Empress left, a maid whispered to her, and the Empress cast a lingering, thoughtful glance at Shi Feixian. Jiang Luo and Xie Wanyu then completed their wedding ceremony. Having been elevated to imperial kin, Count Xie, Xie Wanyu's father, openly gloated to Ban Huai.

Observing the Crown Prince affectionately feeding his wife, Suyue, Rong Xia suggested Ban Hua feed him as well, which she did, remarking that food he fed her tasted better. At the wedding, the Empress unexpectedly turned her attention to Shi Feixian, expressing her intent to arrange a marriage for her and suggesting Xie Qilin, the second son of the Xie family, as a suitable match. Count Xie was overjoyed by the prospect, but Prime Minister Shi looked visibly displeased.

Shi Feixian attempted to refuse, but Xie Qilin preemptively declined the Empress's offer, stating that he had already missed the one he truly wished to marry and no longer had any desire for marriage. The Emperor quickly intervened, downplaying the Empress's suggestion as a jest. Afterward, Shi Feixian confronted Ban Hua, accusing her of deliberately informing the Empress about her past with Prince Luo. Ban Hua vehemently denied the accusation, calling out Shi Feixian for feigning innocence.

She also pointed out that Shi Feixian was responsible for Xie Qilin's blindness and that he deserved better. Ban Hua concluded by asserting that Rong Xia knew her true nature and still loved her, defiantly telling Shi Feixian that she would never lose to her. Later that evening, Rong Xia escorted Ban Hua home.

He apologized, fearing his public displays of affection had caused her trouble, but Ban Hua smiled and held his face, expressing her fondness for his actions and encouraging him to continue. Meanwhile, in Prince Luo’s study, Xie Wanyu discovered a hidden portrait of Shi Feixian. Enraged, she confronted Jiang Luo, who accused her of orchestrating the Empress's attempt to marry Shi Feixian off. Heartbroken, Xie Wanyu expressed deep regret for marrying him and proposed they separate.

Jiang Luo cruelly dismissed her, declaring that she and her entire family were nothing more than his "dogs." Prince Akeqi of Aipo prepared to depart the capital, bidding farewell to Ban Hua. He emotionally conveyed his reluctance to leave and warned Rong Xia to treat Ban Hua well, or he would return with his army. Rong Xia confidently retorted that Aipo's forces couldn't even reach their nation's border.

Accepting this, Akeqi shook Rong Xia's hand, cementing their newfound friendship, and invited Ban Hua to visit Aipo. In a meeting with the Emperor, Rong Xia reported that despite extensive investigation, he had found no leads in the assassination of the Grand Princess, suggesting the well-trained assassins might be connected to a feud from the previous generation. The Emperor angrily ordered him to cease the investigation.

Later, while Ban Hua and Rong Xia were at the archery grounds, they witnessed soldiers abusing hungry refugees. Ban Hua bravely intervened, saving a young boy named Zhao Shunzi and his grandmother. Sadly, the grandmother, weakened by hardship, passed away shortly after, entrusting her grandson to Ban Hua. Believing Ban Hua to be a good person, Zhao Shunzi gave her his protective amulet. Deeply concerned by the plight of the refugees, Ban Hua discussed the widespread famine with Rong Xia.

He explained that despite imperial grants of grain, rampant corruption among officials meant little food reached the suffering populations. Ban Hua proposed that together, with their resources, they could make a difference. Concurrently, Shi Jin, Prime Minister Shi's grandson, expressed concerns to his grandfather about the Qizhou famine tarnishing the family's reputation.

Prime Minister Shi dismissed his worries but secretly ordered his men to find and eliminate the deceased Qizhou Official Zhao's mother and child, fearing they possessed a blood-written letter that could expose his misdeeds. Rong Xia, investigating the suspicious death of the former Qizhou magistrate, suspected the involvement of Prime Minister Shi's faction and resolved to uncover the truth. In the capital, Ban Hua organized a large-scale porridge distribution to aid the refugees.

Ban Heng, surprisingly, showed uncharacteristic frugality, arguing over a mere half tael of silver, emphasizing that every penny was "life-saving money." Meanwhile, Shi Feixian set up a more extravagant relief effort with roasted chickens and zither music, subtly criticizing Ban Hua's simpler setup. Ban Hua confronted Shi Feixian, calling her approach wasteful. The argument was defused by Rong Xia, who acknowledged both women's charitable intentions.

During a court session, Rong Xia formally reported on the man-made disaster in Qizhou, exposing the corruption and missing grain, implicitly pointing towards Prime Minister Shi's cronies. The Prime Minister admitted some responsibility but claimed any money he received was used to buy food for the people. Just then, the Emperor revealed he had received a memorial from Princess Fule (Ban Hua) praising the Shi family's "good deeds" of providing roasted chicken.

Despite Prime Minister Shi's discomfort with a woman's involvement in court affairs, the Emperor publicly commended him and ordered the Shi family to personally fund and distribute free roasted chickens to refugees for an entire month. He then appointed Rong Xia as Minister of Revenue, tasking him with a complete investigation into the Qizhou situation.

Episode 20 Recap

Following the Emperor's order for the Shi family to fund the roast chicken relief effort, Ban Hua cleverly solidified the situation. Instead of accusing the Shi family, she publicly praised them for their generosity, compelling the Emperor to do the same. This move forced the Shi family to continue providing roast chickens to the refugees at their own expense and earned Ban Hua admiration from Rong Xia.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shi Chonghai, fearing an investigation into the Qizhou matter, learned that the late Official Zhao's son, Shunzi, was in the capital. Aware of the boy's love for chicken, Shi Chonghai ordered his subordinates to find and eliminate Shunzi to destroy any connection to a potential blood letter. Ban Heng, eager to treat Shunzi to a good meal, discovered that the Shi family had bought up all the chickens in the capital.

They then stumbled upon a grand disaster relief assembly organized by Shi Feixian and other noble ladies. Shi Feixian's zither performance garnered widespread praise, even from Rong Xia. While the Ban family's porridge shed was deserted in favor of the Shi family’s roast chicken distribution, Ban Hua remained unconcerned, asserting that her goal was genuine relief, not competition. As Ban Heng paused to eat at the Xie family's stall, Shunzi, enticed by the aroma of chicken, wandered off.

He approached the Shi family's shed, where Shi Feixian, seeing he was a child, generously gave him multiple portions. Exploiting this, Shi family retainers took Shunzi to their Charity House. Du Jiu and Wang Qu, investigating the Qizhou case, discovered that Shunzi was the son of Official Zhao and likely carrier of a crucial blood letter accusing Prime Minister Shi. They immediately informed Ban Hua and Rong Xia.

At the same time, Ban Heng arrived with news of Shunzi’s disappearance, having learned that orphaned children were being housed at the Shi family’s Charity House. They rushed there and found Shi Jin genuinely playing with the children. Realizing she had misjudged his character, Ban Hua apologized to him. However, Rong Xia, noticing a steward’s strained expression, sensed something was amiss and subtly urged Ban Hua to take Shunzi home.

Back at his mansion, Shi Chonghai speculated that since the Ban family hadn't acted despite having Shunzi for half a month, they were likely unaware of the blood letter or his true identity. Rong Xia discreetly questioned Shunzi, who seemed to know nothing of a letter, only recalling his parents' wish for his happiness. Rong Xia concluded Shunzi was ignorant of the letter but vowed to expose the corrupt officials.

Inspired by her late grandmother, Ban Hua lamented her own perceived shortcomings in protecting her family, but Rong Xia reassured her, praising her growing strength. That night, Ban Hua dreamt her father was in danger and awoke in a panic. In the imperial court, the Emperor offered Ban Huai the position of Left Prime Minister. Ban Huai initially declined, but when the Emperor extended the offer to Count Xie, he was provoked and immediately accepted, leading to a heated argument.

The Emperor shelved the matter. Meanwhile, as Xie Chongjin had planned, Jiang Luo gained the Emperor's favor and was invited to attend court. Unhappy about Ban Huai's potential promotion, Jiang Luo was assured by Xie Chongjin that another party, seeking to keep the secrets of Qizhou buried, would prevent Ban Huai's appointment. Despite Ban Hua’s pleas, Ban Huai slipped out of the mansion.

As Ban Hua and Ban Heng frantically searched for him, Ban Hua heard a vendor hawking "green bean cakes," a key detail from her dream, and knew the danger was imminent. Spotting their father, the siblings chased after him. Ban Huai narrowly dodged a falling flowerpot but stumbled and was knocked unconscious in the fall. Rong Xia and Ban Hua swiftly apprehended the assailant.

Under Rong Xia's interrogation, the man confessed that Shi Feixian had hired him, providing a rare Southern Pearl as proof of payment. The pearl was traced back to the Shi family. Incensed, Ban Hua resolved to storm the Shi mansion and create a scene so large the Emperor would be forced to investigate. Rong Xia pledged his full support, promising to handle the aftermath. Ban Hua confronted Prime Minister Shi, accusing his daughter of orchestrating the attack. Moments later, Rong Xia arrived with officials from the Court of Judicial Review, ready to help her seek justice.

Episode 21 Recap

Rong Xia, accompanying officials from the Court of Judicial Review, arrived at the Shi family mansion, presenting Shi Feixian's Southern Pearl as evidence for the investigation. Shi Chonghai repeatedly tried to obstruct them, with Shi Jin adding that having a lady's personal item inspected would severely damage her reputation. Ultimately, Shi Feixian stepped forward, confirmed the Southern Pearl was indeed hers, and agreed to appear before the Court the following day.

Meanwhile, Ban Huai, sporting a bandaged head wound, went to His Majesty, tearfully declaring the position of Prime Minister was too dangerous for him. He suggested the post be given to Count Xie instead, so someone else would be targeted. His Majesty, infuriated that someone dared to orchestrate an assassination attempt in the capital, immediately ordered Liu Banshan, the Minister of Judicial Review, to thoroughly investigate the matter and bring the culprit to justice.

At the Court of Judicial Review, Shi Feixian confirmed the Southern Pearl belonged to her, stating she had lost it days ago in the west grove. She clarified it was a pearl from her embroidered shoes and that she had gone to the grove to meet Count Cheng’an, presenting an invitation letter as proof.

When asked how she knew the letter was from Count Cheng’an despite lacking a signature, she claimed to recognize his handwriting from her extensive collection of his calligraphy. Ban Hua, after examining the letter, also confirmed the handwriting appeared to be Rong Xia’s. Rong Xia vehemently denied writing the letter.

Despite his protests and Ban Hua’s fierce defense of him against Shi Jin, Liu Banshan, in accordance with His Majesty's order for a thorough investigation, announced that both Shi Feixian and Count Cheng’an would be detained for further inquiry. News of the detention quickly spread, leading to rampant gossip that greatly annoyed Ban Hua. Jiang Luo, anxious to rescue Shi Feixian, was restrained by Xie Chongjin. It was revealed that Xie Chongjin was the mastermind behind the entire scheme.

He confessed to Jiang Luo that he had deliberately orchestrated the attack on Ban Huai and fabricated the letter, aiming to sow discord between the Ban and Shi families while simultaneously implicating Rong Xia. He advised Jiang Luo against impulsive actions that might raise His Majesty's suspicion. Upon returning home, Ban Hua felt something was amiss. She went to the prison to visit Rong Xia, assuring him she now believed him.

Together, they analyzed the motives of the true perpetrator, concluding that the assassin hirer and letter forger were likely the same person, whose objective was to create conflict between the Ban and Shi families and also to estrange Rong Xia from Ban Hua. Rong Xia urged Ban Hua to prioritize her own safety and that of her father. Separately, Xie Wanyu prepared dishes for Ban Heng and delivered them, hoping to intercede on Shi Feixian's behalf.

Ban Heng found Xie Wanyu foolish for pleading for Shi Feixian, given Shi Feixian's complicated relationship with Jiang Luo. Xie Wanyu explained that for her, a husband was merely an identity, but Shi Feixian was her dearest friend. Jiang Luo, seeking to help Shi Feixian, suggested to the Crown Prince that he visit Ban Huai to offer condolences. The Crown Prince dispatched Crown Princess Suyue to the Ban family, expecting a warm reception.

Instead, Suyue was met with a closed door, as the Ban family refused her gifts, stating that accepting them would imply a truce before the truth was uncovered. Undeterred, the Crown Princess ordered her attendants to force their way into the Ban residence with the gifts. Though the Crown Princess claimed to be there to apologize on her "sister's" behalf, her demeanor lacked sincerity.

She asserted the gifts were from Chengqian Palace, yet every word revolved around the Shi family's innocence. Adopting a haughty air, she reminded Ban Hua that "Daye is no longer what it used to be." Ban Hua, unafraid, accused her of attempting to coerce them into dropping the charges before the investigation was complete.

She declared that no one—not the Crown Princess, the Crown Prince, nor Prime Minister Shi—could sway them until the truth of her father's attack came to light. Infuriated, Suyue demanded Ban Hua kneel. Ban Hua retorted that Suyue should be the one kneeling—at the ancestral temple of her grandmother, Grand Princess Royal Dening—and told the Crown Princess to return to her palace instead of throwing her weight around.

Humiliated, Suyue smashed a valuable kettle and stormed back to the Crown Prince, demanding he punish Ban Hua. The Crown Prince, seeking harmony, hesitated to reprimand Ban Hua. Suyue pressed him, arguing that his weakness would undermine his authority and that if the Shi family fell, he would "lose the kingdom." A servant reported these exact words to His Majesty. Enraged, His Majesty thundered that the Crown Prince's position was conferred by him, not dependent on the Shi family.

He condemned Suyue as a woman unfit to be Empress. Soon after, the Crown Prince, unaware of His Majesty's fury, approached his father to plead for Shi Feixian's release. This further incensed His Majesty, who slapped his son, lamenting the Crown Prince's cowardice and despairing over entrusting the kingdom to such a successor. Overwhelmed, His Majesty collapsed. The imperial physician diagnosed him with symptoms of a stroke, and the Empress ordered the diagnosis kept secret.

In prison, Xie Wanyu visited Shi Feixian, who remained steadfast in her belief that Count Cheng’an had written the letter. She expressed her unwavering commitment, believing the prison was the closest she could be to him and reaffirming that she had already burned her bridges for this romance. Meanwhile, Du Jiu visited Rong Xia in prison.

Rong Xia, having deduced that Xie Chongjin was the mastermind, speculated that the imprisoned assassin was now in danger and dispatched Du Jiu to investigate. Just as Rong Xia predicted, Shi Jin forced his way into the celestial prison, aggressively confronting the assassin about framing his sister. The assassin stubbornly maintained that Shi Feixian had hired him, daring Shi Jin to kill him. Simultaneously, Ban Hua brought a calligraphy shop owner to the Court of Judicial Review.

The owner confirmed that Count Cheng’an had never purchased anything from him, thus clearing Rong Xia of suspicion regarding the letter's authorship. Suddenly, a killer from Fude House, disguised as an official, poisoned the imprisoned assassin and framed Shi Jin for the murder before escaping. When Du Jiu and Ban Hua arrived at the prison, they found the original assassin dead.

Upon realizing the involvement of Fude House, a notorious and expensive assassin organization, Ban Hua and Rong Xia pondered how Xie Chongjin, an ordinary official, could be connected to such a group. Impatient, Ban Hua declared her intention to capture Xie Chongjin and interrogate him directly. Rong Xia cautioned her, but Ban Hua confidently asserted that she would take Xie Chongjin by surprise.

Episode 22 Recap

Distraught over Shi Feixian’s imprisonment, Xie Wanyu seeks out Ban Heng for a solution. Ban Heng suggests a simple yet challenging method that relies on the depth of her bond with Shi Feixian. Despite his skepticism about her resolve, Xie Wanyu pledges to do anything to save her friend. Ban Heng then reveals the crucial evidence: a copybook used by Xie Wanyu’s brother, Xie Chongjin, to imitate Count Cheng’an’s handwriting.

This revelation forces Xie Wanyu into a painful dilemma, torn between her family loyalty and her deep friendship, especially with Shi Feixian’s sentencing looming the very next day. Accompanied by Shi Jin, Ban Hua visits Shi Feixian in prison. Initially, Shi Feixian is bitter, assuming Ban Hua delights in her misfortune.

Ban Hua sincerely apologizes for her past impulsiveness and accusations, then proposes that Shi Feixian become her witness to expose the true forger of the letter and clear her name. Shi Feixian is stunned, having believed Count Cheng'an truly admired her and wrote the letter himself. Shi Jin interjects, confirming Rong Xia's engagement to Ban Hua and that the letter is indeed a forgery. Shi Feixian laments the destruction of her dignity and dreams.

Ban Hua, while asserting her love for Rong Xia, emphasizes that the true culprit remains at large and both Shi Feixian and Count Cheng’an are unjustly imprisoned. Challenged by Ban Hua to prove she is not just a weak victim, Shi Feixian, refusing to be outdone, agrees to cooperate. Ban Hua then presents evidence, contrasting Count Cheng'an's authentic handwriting with the forged letter, revealing Xie Chongjin as the one who framed Shi Feixian.

Although confused by Xie Chongjin’s motives, Shi Feixian agrees that her testimony in court the next day will bring him to justice. Shi Jin informs his grandfather, Shi Chonghai, about their alliance with Ban Hua to bring Xie Chongjin to justice. Shi Chonghai, feigning concern, says he will go to the palace but goes to the prison instead.

He tells a distraught Shi Feixian that her sister, Suyue, is about to be dethroned as Crown Princess for having angered the Emperor by interfering with court affairs on Shi Feixian's behalf. Furthermore, Shi Chonghai claims the Emperor intends to execute Shi Feixian, accusing her of seducing Jiang Luo to save the royal family’s reputation.

Despite Shi Feixian’s protests of innocence, Shi Chonghai insists that the only way to save her life and the Shi family’s future is for her to falsely confess to assassinating Duke Ban. This confession, he explains, would result in her exile to Xizhou instead of execution. Deeply disillusioned, Shi Feixian realizes her grandfather values the family's honor more than her life, bitterly comparing herself to a commodity while Ban Hua is a real person.

She consents to his plan and resigns herself to her fate. As an officer warns her about the finality of her confession, Shi Feixian, with a heavy heart, accepts her perceived destiny. Just as Shi Chonghai prepares to force Shi Feixian’s handprint onto the confession, Ban Hua and Shi Jin burst in. Ban Hua intervenes, asserting Shi Feixian's innocence. When she demands Shi Jin produce their evidence, his silence confirms her suspicion: Shi Chonghai has taken it.

She confronts Shi Chonghai, accusing him of sacrificing his granddaughter for personal gain. He angrily dismisses her accusations. Ban Hua, expressing her profound disappointment in him, defiantly declares her intent to uncover the truth, asserting that justice will prevail regardless of the powerful figures involved. Later, in a conversation with Rong Xia, Ban Hua laments Shi Feixian’s unjust fate and reflects on the corrupt nature of the capital.

She confesses her internal struggle, acknowledging the prevalence of deception but expressing her reluctance to become like those she condemns. She wonders if her ideals are misplaced in such a world, but Rong Xia reassures her, affirming her integrity and offering his continued support. Following the prison confrontation, Jiang Luo is placed under house arrest, informed that his father, the Emperor, knows of his involvement with Shi Feixian and expects his compliance.

The Emperor then abolishes the system of dual prime ministers, elevating Shi Chonghai to the sole position of Prime Minister. Concurrently, Shi Jin is promoted to Commander of the Imperial Guards. Count Xie protests Shi Chonghai's appointment, leading to a heated, albeit humorous, exchange with Duke Ban, but the Emperor remains resolute. Meanwhile, Shi Feixian is exiled to Xizhou. Shi Jin, desperate, kneels outside the palace, pleading for the Emperor to overturn the decision, but is denied an audience.

Shi Chonghai arrives and furiously confronts Shi Jin, slapping him and admonishing his grandson for his defiance, warning that his actions risk the entire Shi family's demise. Shi Jin maintains his sister's innocence and his willingness to bear the consequences. Later, as Shi Feixian is led away, Xie Wanyu approaches with supplies, but a bitter Shi Feixian rejects her, disowning her as a sister.

Rong Xia and Ban Hua arrive to bid farewell to Shi Feixian, who is surprised that Ban Hua is the only one to see her off. Maintaining her pride, Shi Feixian declares herself still "the noblest lady in Daye" and challenges Ban Hua not to squander the title she temporarily "bestows" upon her. Before departing, Shi Feixian asks Rong Xia if he ever harbored any feelings for her.

Rong Xia, holding Ban Hua’s hand, unequivocally states that his heart has always belonged solely to Ban Hua. As Shi Feixian is led away, Ban Hua expresses profound sorrow for women like her, forced to sacrifice for their families' honor. Rong Xia comforts her, promising to ensure Shi Feixian’s safety and to hold Jiang Luo accountable. Elsewhere, Shi Jin attempts to intercept the convoy, but his grandfather, Shi Chonghai, blocks him, threatening to die if Shi Jin defies him.

Meanwhile, Xie Wanyu desperately pleads with her brother, Xie Chongjin, to rescue Shi Feixian. He refuses, revealing his machinations were aimed at securing Xie Wanyu's position as Crown Princess. Heartbroken, Xie Wanyu accuses him of selfish manipulation, asserting she is merely a pawn. While Rong Xia dispatches Du Jiu to apprehend Xie Chongjin, Jiang Luo impatiently awaits him at his residence. His wait is interrupted by the unexpected arrival of Ban Hua, who defiantly confronts him.

She taunts his confined status and leverages his affection for Shi Feixian, revealing that Xie Chongjin orchestrated her downfall and has likely sent assassins to kill her on the road to exile. Ban Hua, claiming to have arranged for Shi Feixian's protection, proposes a deal. She demands Jiang Luo cease all actions against the Ban family, abandon his pursuit of the throne, show her proper respect, and sign a humiliating letter of repentance for the attack on her father.

Desperate to ensure Shi Feixian's safety, Jiang Luo reluctantly signs. Simultaneously, Rong Xia confronts the captured Xie Chongjin, revealing his detailed understanding of Xie’s schemes: the forgery, the hired assassination attempt on Duke Ban, all designed to elevate Jiang Luo and Xie Wanyu. When Xie Chongjin feigns ignorance about the assassins sent after Shi Feixian, Rong Xia threatens to expose the forgery to Jiang Luo, which would ruin the Xie family.

Rong Xia then brings up the mysterious death of his butler, implying Xie Chongjin’s Fude House was involved, and presses him for information. The convoy transporting Shi Feixian is ambushed by bandits. Suddenly, Akeqi and his men, sent by Ban Hua to protect her, arrive and engage the attackers. Despite their efforts, Shi Feixian is cornered. In a desperate plea, she reveals her identity as the Prime Minister’s granddaughter, but the bandits are unmoved, attributing her fate to "bad luck."

Facing imminent humiliation at the hands of her captors and before Akeqi can reach her, Shi Feixian chooses a tragic end, resolutely throwing herself off a cliff. Her final words express a profound wish for a simple life in her next existence, free from the machinations of power.

Episode 23 Recap

Prince Luo presented his written repentance to His Majesty and the Empress. He admitted to maliciously ordering an attack on Duke Jingting and framing Shi Feixian, which resulted in Duke Jingting's suffering and Shi Feixian's undeserved exile. Prince Luo called himself deceitful and expressed sincere remorse, asking for severe punishment. His Majesty, however, noticed a missing stroke in the character "Luo" in his signature, hinting at his continued defiance, though Prince Luo quickly denied it.

The Empress interceded, attributing Prince Luo's behavior to her own indulgence and his frail health since childhood, urging His Majesty to trust him. His Majesty, feeling his age, stated his biggest wish was for Prince Luo to reconcile with his older brother and assist him in governing Daye after his own passing. He then ordered a royal banquet for the following day, inviting the Ban family so Prince Luo could offer a sincere apology.

Prince Luo, emboldened, then requested that Shi Feixian be allowed to return. His Majesty, infuriated, ordered him to leave, but Prince Luo persisted, promising complete obedience and even offering to assist the Crown Prince if Feixian could return. His Majesty, however, only repeated his command for Prince Luo to "get out." Meanwhile, Shi Feixian, having miraculously survived her fall from the cliff, was found unconscious but stable by Akeqi. A physician confirmed she was out of danger.

Akeqi arranged for a local woman to care for her, promising monthly payments. He also learned that while most of the robbers who attacked her had been captured, one had escaped. Akeqi ordered his men to find the missing robber immediately and assigned two guards to protect Shi Feixian. The Empress advised Prince Luo to control his temper, warning that his continued defiance could lead to his own expulsion from the capital, rather than Ban Hua's.

Prince Luo, frustrated, even questioned if he was His Majesty's biological son, a notion the Empress quickly dismissed as absurd. At the royal banquet, Duke Jingting and Princess Ban arrived. Ban Hua remarked humorously on the lack of a grand welcome. Inside, Ban Hua enjoyed the food, even thinking of bringing a drumstick to Shunzi. His Majesty encouraged an informal atmosphere, deeming it a family feast. He then prompted Prince Luo to speak with Duke Jingting.

Prince Luo reluctantly offered a toast, vaguely apologizing for "what happened days ago." Ban Hua, feigning ignorance, pressed for details, asking what exactly happened and what her father should forgive. Prince Luo, annoyed, told her to shut up, but Ban Hua countered that His Majesty had encouraged informality, thus justifying her questions. His Majesty intervened, remarking on the two's childhood habit of squabbling and their continued childishness even as adults.

Ban Hua then stated she could get along with Prince Luo if he would just grow up and stop being childish. His Majesty instructed Prince Luo to pour wine for Ban Hua, reminding him of their "rules." Prince Luo complied, and Ban Hua playfully commented that it was the first time he had ever served her. The Crown Prince expressed satisfaction at their reconciliation, wishing them continued harmony.

His Majesty dismissed their past quarrels as minor, expressing his gratitude to the Ban family for their substantial donations that helped alleviate the recent famine. He raised his tea cup, thanking them on behalf of the disaster victims. After leaving the palace, Ban Hua gleefully recounted Prince Luo's sullen face to Rong Xia, admitting how much she enjoyed his discomfort. Rong Xia praised her cleverness, noting how her actions effectively punished the culprit without being overly provocative.

Ban Hua, encouraged, suggested another scheme if Prince Luo were to cause further trouble. Rong Xia, having played his part, asked how she would thank him. Ban Hua playfully suggested walking him home was thanks enough, but Rong Xia desired more. Ban Hua teased him for his "tricks," reminding him he was a gentleman. Rong Xia, amused, claimed he had simply picked up some of her characteristics by being around her daily.

He then praised her intelligence for outwitting Prince Luo so thoroughly. Ban Hua, flattered, admitted that with Rong Xia's strategic mind, she would never uncover his deceptions if he ever chose to mislead her. Rong Xia earnestly promised he would never deceive her, swearing his heart was completely sincere towards her. Their conversation was then interrupted by Du Jiu, who delivered a letter from Akeqi confirming that Shi Feixian had been safely settled.

Shi Chonghai recalled that His Majesty had met with him on the eve of Shi Feixian's confession, hinting that the Shi family should take responsibility for Prince Luo's actions concerning the Qizhou incident, in exchange for the matter not being further investigated. Despite this, Shi Chonghai remained anxious about the "letter written in blood" and ordered his subordinate to take action to retrieve it to secure his position.

Meanwhile, Xie Chongjin informed Prince Luo that Shi Feixian had encountered robbers during her exile. Prince Luo was furious, accusing Xie Chongjin of attempting to kill Shi Feixian despite knowing his deep affection for her. He threatened Xie Chongjin's life, believing Xie Chongjin was trying to eliminate Shi Feixian to secure his own sister's position as Empress. Xie Chongjin, however, calmly explained that his actions were for Prince Luo's own benefit.

He argued that Prince Luo would inevitably contend with the Crown Prince, and weakening the Crown Prince's faction would affect the Shi family. By ensuring Shi Feixian was separated from her family, Prince Luo would not be constrained by familial ties, preventing him from being caught in a dilemma. Xie Chongjin requested a chance to prove his loyalty.

Prince Luo reluctantly granted him one more chance, reiterating that all his previous commitments would remain valid if Xie Chongjin brought Shi Feixian back unharmed. If she was injured in any way, he vowed to take Xie Chongjin's life. Later, a love letter from Rong Xia arrived for Ban Hua, drawing teasing remarks from her father and brother, who tried to peek at its contents.

During a card game, Ban Hua insisted on reading it, prompting her father to bet the letter if she won the round. Shunzi, however, saved the day by interpreting the classical poem for her. He explained the first lines, describing creeping grass and sparkling dewdrops, as referring to Ban Hua's beauty.

He clarified that the final lines, "We met together accidentally; And he and I were happy together," were not about running away, as Ban Heng misinterpreted, but about Rong Xia wanting to spend his life with her. Ban Hua was delighted, albeit amused by the complexity of a scholar's love confession. She then went to find Rong Xia, who was flying a kite.

Rong Xia confessed he had tried to make the kite himself, but it proved more difficult than he imagined. Shunzi, inspired, wrote a message on the kite, believing his deceased family could hear him if it flew high enough. Ban Hua told Shunzi the old saying that those who fly kites together are forever bound by the kite string. Simultaneously, Shi Chonghai's subordinate reported that the "letter written in blood" had not been found among Shunzi's belongings.

Shi Chonghai became increasingly agitated, viewing Shunzi as a major threat. He ordered Shunzi's discreet elimination to prevent any complications, emphasizing the need for a clean, untraceable kill. Meanwhile, Rong Xia met Xie Chongjin at Fude House, where he learned that his late butler's death was linked to Assistant Wu, a key aide in the Shi family. Rong Xia realized this could be connected to his own parents' deaths.

Ban Hua, understanding his distress, assured him not to worry about her, claiming she was the most resilient person in Daye, and urged him to prioritize his own safety while pursuing the truth. Xie Chongjin observed that Rong Xia, despite knowing the Shi family's involvement in his butler's death, had not yet made a move. To provoke action, Xie Chongjin devised a new plan.

He ordered his people to spread false information to Shi Chonghai, suggesting that Shunzi, though currently in the Ban family's protective custody, was scheduled to enter the palace soon. Xie Chongjin reasoned that if Shunzi died, Ban Hua would undoubtedly seek revenge on the Shi family, allowing him to benefit from their conflict. He framed this as merely "passing accurate information" to the appropriate parties.

Xie Chongjin instructed his men to find a way to lure Shunzi out of the Ban family mansion, suggesting using a kite to draw him out of the garden where he often played. Shi Chonghai, upon receiving this alarming news about Shunzi's impending palace visit, panicked and immediately ordered his men to kill Shunzi. Later, as the family called for him for lunch, Shunzi chased his kite which had flown out of the mansion.

Ban Hua and Ban Heng searched for him, only to find Shunzi's lifeless body. Ban Hua wept inconsolably, vowing that Shi Chonghai would pay with his life. In court, Rong Xia directly accused Shi Chonghai, stating that his negligence and corruption led to the famine in Qizhou. Shi Chonghai vehemently denied the accusations, claiming Official Zhao's death was a natural disaster and not his doing. His Majesty revealed that he had given Shi Chonghai a final chance.

Rong Xia then presented irrefutable evidence: he exposed Shi Chonghai for siphoning off relief grain, selling official positions, forcing Official Zhao and his family to their deaths to make way for a new appointee, and attempting to cover up his crimes with a fire. He further revealed that Shi Chonghai, fearing the "letter written in blood" that Official Zhao had penned, had created a charity house as a front to lure Shunzi into a trap.

When that plan failed due to Shunzi's close ties with the Ban family, Shi Chonghai resorted to killing the child. His Majesty, deeply disappointed, questioned Shi Chonghai's actions as a senior official who had served three emperors and was also his in-law. Shi Chonghai, finally cornered, confessed his guilt, begging His Majesty to spare his innocent grandchildren. His Majesty, however, condemned Shi Chonghai's increasing ruthlessness despite years of leniency.

He decreed the execution of the corrupt Qizhou official and Assistant Wu, removed Shi Chonghai from all his official posts, and ordered his immediate imprisonment. With the Shi family's downfall, Prince Luo was overjoyed. Xie Chongjin informed him that Shi Feixian had survived her fall and was rescued by Akeqi, now residing with a farmer in Guxian County. Prince Luo was ecstatic, eager to go retrieve her and surprise her.

Unbeknownst to Prince Luo, Xie Chongjin had a deeper scheme: he intended for Shi Feixian to die after her location was revealed. Meanwhile, Shi Jin visited Shunzi's tomb to pay his respects. Ban Hua confronted him, her voice filled with pain, stating that Shunzi's parents' deaths, his grandmother's starvation, and Shunzi's own demise were all due to the Shi family. She ordered Shi Jin to leave, saying Shunzi did not need his feigned sympathy.

Shi Jin remained silent, acknowledging the truth in Ban Hua's words. Later, Ban Hua brought steamed chicken to Shunzi's tomb, expressing her deep regret for failing to protect him. Rong Xia gently took her hand, vowing that such a tragedy would never happen again.

Episode 24 Recap

Following the collapse of the Shi family, Shi Feixian awoke in unfamiliar surroundings, expressing fear and confusion. A woman named Mrs. Wang, who had been looking after her, explained that a gentleman had delivered her three days prior along with some silver. Hearing the description of a handsome and scholarly man, Shi Feixian mistakenly believed it was Count Cheng’an, Rong Xia, who had saved her.

Meanwhile, Rong Xia arrived at the Shi family mansion with a cup of wine granted by His Majesty. Shi Chonghai, stripped of his power, questioned why Rong Xia had cornered him. In response, Rong Xia accused Shi Chonghai of countless bloody deeds, including the murder of Butler Rong. Pressing for a confession, Rong Xia asked what the butler knew that warranted his death, suggesting it was related to Shi Chonghai's schemes for the Crown Princess position.

Shi Chonghai admitted that Prime Minister Yan had betrayed him and that he had acted out of selfish motives. Rong Xia, however, remained focused on his family's tragedy, questioning the court's suspicious silence after the deaths of two prominent officials, his father and General Ban. Claiming to be a mere pawn, Shi Chonghai recounted his version of events. After ascending the throne, the Emperor relentlessly sought the lost Tiger Tally from General Ban.

Yan Hui suggested using Rong Xia's father, Lord Rong, to retrieve it. When even Lord Rong failed, Yan Hui sowed doubt in the Emperor's mind, suggesting Lord Rong might be colluding with the Ban family. Yan Hui then summoned Shi Chonghai and Lord Xie, instructing Shi Chonghai to deliver poisoned wine to the Rong Mansion.

After Lord Rong died, Yan Hui brazenly confessed to the Emperor that he had orchestrated the death to find the Tiger Tally, which he now believed was with the Princess Royal. According to his tale, Shi Chonghai overheard this and rushed to the Princess Royal, stopping her from consuming poisoned food and revealing Yan Hui’s plot. The Princess Royal was distraught to learn Lord Rong had been murdered over the Tally, which she insisted she did not possess.

As she prepared to confront the Emperor, a servant arrived with tragic news: while Mrs. Rong and the younger master were safe, the elder young master had died along with his father. Following this, the Princess Royal and Shi Chonghai arranged for Rong Xia to enter the Palace as the Crown Prince’s study partner to protect the last of the Rong bloodline. Rong Xia sharply interrupted, exposing Shi Chonghai’s deceit.

He revealed that he had known for years that Shi Chonghai, not Lord Xie, was inside the Imperial Study during Yan Hui’s insidious proposal. Rong Xia asserted that the feigned rescue of the Princess Royal was merely a ploy to locate the Tiger Tally, a scheme fueled by Yan Hui’s promise to make Shi Chonghai's granddaughter the Crown Princess.

Realizing Yan Hui's betrayal, a defeated Shi Chonghai expressed remorse and prepared to join Lord Rong and General Ban in death, but Rong Xia declared him unworthy. Desperate, Shi Chonghai retorted that Rong Xia could never outmaneuver the Emperor, whose silence and continued employment of him and Yan Hui proved his complicity. He warned that until the Tiger Tally was found, such tragedies would continue. Defeated, Shi Chonghai drank the wine.

After Rong Xia left, Du Jiu informed the dying man that the wine was not poisoned, revealing Rong Xia’s final deception. Shi Chonghai’s words, however, deeply wounded Rong Xia, confirming the Emperor's role in his family's suffering. Overcome with grief, he got drunk and went to the Ban Mansion to find Ban Hua. Ban Hua found Rong Xia in despair, crying that he had no family left.

She gently comforted him, declaring that she was his family and promising to share his burdens. He pleaded with her not to leave, and she stayed with him until he fell asleep. The next morning, Rong Xia awoke in shock to find Ban Heng beside him. Ban Heng mischievously claimed Rong Xia had clung to him all night, leaving Rong Xia mortified and worried about his drunken behavior toward Ban Hua.

The maids, Softy and Rocky, were caught gossiping about the improper situation by Ban Hua and her mother, Madam Yin. Madam Yin, sensing Rong Xia’s deep-seated sorrow, advised Ban Hua to comfort him. Elsewhere, Shi Feixian was nearly assaulted by Wang Daqiang. When Mrs. Wang discovered them, she accused Shi Feixian of seducing her husband. Enraged by the injustice, Shi Feixian trapped the couple inside their house and set it on fire, killing them before she fled.

When Jiang Luo arrived, he found only the smoldering ruins and Shi Feixian's hairpin, leading him to believe she had perished. At Rong Mansion, Du Jiu told Ban Hua that Rong Xia was still deeply troubled. Ban Hua visited Rong Xia, who tried to shield her from his problems. She insisted they face everything together as a future family. She gently questioned his anger at the Emperor, suggesting Shi Chonghai might have been lying.

Rong Xia countered by reminding her of her grandfather’s sacrifice and how her grandmother, the Princess Royal, had hidden the Tally precisely because she understood the Emperor’s nature. He admitted he was torn between his promise to the Princess Royal to protect the Ban family and his mother’s wish for him to let go of hatred, and the painful reality that the Emperor, a man who had shown him kindness, was complicit in his family’s murder.

Ban Hua reassured him that he was not alone and they would face the future together. Shi Feixian returned to the capital to find the Shi mansion sealed, a symbol of her family's downfall. Undeterred, she vowed to find her own place in the city. Meanwhile, Jiang Luo angrily accused Xie Chongjin of setting the fire that he believed killed Shi Feixian. Xie Chongjin denied it, reminding Jiang Luo that he was indispensable to his ambition for the throne.

Jiang Luo relented, and Xie Chongjin advised him to use the Emperor to eliminate Count Cheng'an, leaving the Crown Prince isolated and vulnerable. Determined to comfort Rong Xia, Ban Hua decided to personally cook him ginseng chicken soup, despite Ban Heng’s warnings about her terrible cooking skills. She wanted to give Rong Xia, who grew up alone, a taste of home.

Rong Xia praised the soup's flavor and, to her delight, drank the entire large bowl, refusing her help so as not to waste her heartfelt effort. Ban Hua was proud, until her father and brother later revealed the soup was horribly bitter. Realizing Rong Xia drank it purely out of love, she vowed to improve her cooking. Later, Shi Feixian revealed herself to Jiang Luo in a dark forest.

Believing her to be a ghost, he was shaken but then overjoyed to see her alive. He recounted his despair at finding the ruins and her hairpin, apologizing for her suffering and pleading for her to come back with him. Shi Feixian demurred, calling herself a "guilty person," but Jiang Luo insisted, proclaiming he would not lose her again.

Episode 25 Recap

Jiang Luo summoned Rong Xia, proposing a collaboration. He revealed his knowledge of Rong Xia's long-held wish for revenge and offered his full support to help Rong Xia bring justice to his deceased family. Rong Xia, understanding Jiang Luo’s underlying intentions, urged him to speak plainly. Meanwhile, at Prince Luo's mansion, Xie Wanyu discovered a steward preparing to deliver women's clothing and jewelry to a courtyard.

She confronted the steward, who, under threat of being taken to the authorities, admitted the items were for the courtyard. Xie Wanyu then confronted Jiang Luo directly, accusing him of giving lavish gifts to another woman. Jiang Luo dismissively told her it was none of her business. Incensed, Xie Wanyu went directly to the courtyard, where she was surprised to find Shi Feixian.

Shi Feixian expressed deep regret for her past behavior towards Xie Wanyu, recounting her difficult exile to Xizhou where she missed her dearly. She explained that upon her return to the capital, she found her grandfather dismissed and the Shi family mansion sealed, leaving her nowhere to go until she coincidentally met Prince Luo, who offered her temporary refuge. She reassured Xie Wanyu that her stay was not permanent.

Xie Wanyu, still concerned for Shi Feixian's well-being, offered to find her a more suitable long-term place, admitting she didn't believe Prince Luo was good enough for her. Shi Feixian confided that her heart still belonged to Count Cheng’an, to which Xie Wanyu promised to help her. Soon after, Rong Xia was urgently summoned to the palace as His Majesty was feeling unwell. Ban Hua, upon hearing the news, rushed after him, fearing he might act rashly.

In the Emperor’s chambers, Jiang Luo approached Rong Xia, revealing that most of the Emperor’s attendants, except for Wang De, were his own people. He then proposed that this was the perfect opportunity for Rong Xia to exact his revenge on the Emperor and ensure justice for his family, promising a safe escape for Rong Xia and the Ban family.

Rong Xia then had an audience with the Emperor, directly questioning him about the true circumstances surrounding the deaths of General Ban and his own father, suggesting the Emperor had been aware of foul play. The Emperor initially dismissed Rong Xia's inquiries, but Rong Xia defiantly stated he would rather die than leave without the truth. Pressured by Rong Xia's persistence, the Emperor revealed the long-held secret.

He explained that after ascending the throne, aided by the Ban, Rong, Yan, and Shi families, General Ban and Rong Xia's father were poisoned within three months, and even Rong Xia’s brother mysteriously drowned. The Emperor claimed he was heartbroken but powerless, unable to find the culprit until Princess Royal brought a young Rong Xia into the palace. It was then he realized the tragic events were the machinations of Prime Ministers Yan Hui and Shi Chonghai.

Rong Xia challenged the Emperor, arguing he should have punished them instead of harboring him. The Emperor defended his actions, stating he had to tolerate them for the stability of Daye and its people, and that he kept Rong Xia by his side to compensate him for his family's loss. Rong Xia rejected the Emperor’s emotional appeal, accusing him of using his family's tragedy to counterbalance the Yan and Shi families.

He vehemently criticized the Emperor for turning a blind eye and allowing Yan Hui and Shi Chonghai to seize power, harm the populace, and destabilize the realm. As Rong Xia pressed his accusations, the Emperor stumbled backward. Rong Xia drew a sharp blade, but before he could act, Ban Hua rushed in, crying out to stop him.

Instead of striking the Emperor, Rong Xia dramatically cut the Emperor's imperial robe, declaring that from that moment, their bond was severed, and all past kindness and grudges between them were wiped clean. He then thanked Ban Hua, explaining that her bitter chicken soup had unexpectedly provided him with clarity, making him realize he was no longer alone and had her by his side. He promised Ban Hua he would never let her worry again.

Back at the Ban family mansion, Ban Heng joked about his sister becoming a widow before marriage if Rong Xia had been killed, while his father mused that the Emperor’s actions were likely driven by guilt. They discussed Rong Xia’s and his father’s shared desire to resign from court and live a happy, peaceful life away from political strife, seeing it as a sweet revenge.

However, Ban Hua's mother expressed concern that the Emperor might not permit Rong Xia to leave. Shortly after Rong Xia and Ban Hua returned home, Du Jiu arrived with news that the Emperor had fainted. Ban Hua immediately departed for the palace to inquire about his condition, urging Rong Xia to be cautious in her absence. She found the Emperor frail and ill. Rong Xia then sought an audience with the Crown Prince.

He presented General Ban’s Tiger Tally to the Crown Prince, requesting that he give it to the Emperor and claim to have found it himself. Rong Xia explained this act would stabilize the court and solidify the Crown Prince’s position, while also fulfilling his and Ban Hua's desire to withdraw from official life. The Crown Prince initially hesitated, arguing that Daye needed Rong Xia, especially with the Emperor’s declining health.

Rong Xia, however, reiterated his firm wish to resign from court with Ban Hua. Despite his weakened state, the Emperor insisted on rising from his sickbed to search for a specific piece of calligraphy—the characters he had personally written when he bestowed Rong Xia's name years ago. He wanted Rong Xia to understand his true sincerity and to not harbor resentment. Before Rong Xia and Ban Hua left the palace, the Empress showed them the calligraphy, explaining its profound meaning.

She recounted how, on the night of Rong Xia’s birth, the Emperor had personally chosen the name "Rong Xia." The character "Xia," meaning a blemish on a beautiful jade, symbolized the Emperor's wish that even if Rong Xia had flaws or made mistakes, the world would be tolerant, forgive him, and offer him chances to correct his wrongs.

The Empress conveyed that while the Emperor knew of Rong Xia’s grievances and didn't expect forgiveness, the imperial court and the people of Daye could not afford to lose Count Cheng’an. The Crown Prince then presented the Tiger Tally to the Emperor, telling him that Rong Xia had given it to him. Overjoyed, the Emperor understood that Rong Xia had found the tally and immediately ordered Count Cheng’an to be summoned, eager to reward him.

A eunuch caught up with Ban Hua and Rong Xia as they were leaving the palace, conveying an Imperial Edict. The edict proclaimed that Count Cheng’an and Ban Hua were to be married in the Moon Palace, with the elaborate rites befitting a prince. Jiang Luo, displeased, attempted to signal the Crown Prince to object to this unprecedented arrangement. The Crown Prince, however, was confused.

When Jiang Luo finally voiced his concern that no outsider had ever married in the palace, the Emperor angrily asserted his imperial authority, declaring that a precedent would be set that day. Jiang Luo further tried to argue about established imperial customs, infuriating the Emperor even more. The Empress intervened, calming the Emperor and offering to personally oversee all the wedding arrangements to ensure the couple was not wronged.

Outside the Emperor's chambers, Jiang Luo continued to press the Crown Prince, questioning his acceptance of the Emperor's decision and reminding him that Rong Xia had recently threatened their father with a dagger. The Crown Prince warned Jiang Luo against speaking such dangerous words within the palace. Jiang Luo, frustrated by the Crown Prince’s lack of understanding, muttered that he was "hopeless" and would find his own way to deal with Rong Xia.

He also pointed out that Rong Xia was responsible for resettling the refugees, implying that the Emperor would be displeased if he knew about the chaotic situation in the capital. The Crown Prince seemed to grasp part of his meaning but still remained passive. Ban Hua expressed her dissatisfaction with her wedding being arranged without her input, but Rong Xia comforted her.

He promised that if she was unhappy with the imperial wedding, he would hold another private ceremony for her, emphasizing that her happiness was his priority and he would never allow her to suffer any grievance. Ban Hua playfully asked if he thought she was being melodramatic, mentioning that many women in the capital remarried. Rong Xia firmly stated that she would only marry once in her life, and that person would be him.

Meanwhile, Suyue lamented the downfall of the Shi family, noting how former sycophants had vanished and even the Crown Prince had become distant from Shi Jin. Shi Jin clarified that the Crown Prince was not cold, but had refused to discuss the missing Shi Feixian, citing the Emperor’s poor health. Suyue advised Shi Jin to maintain good relations with the Crown Prince.

Shi Jin assured her he had friends at the border searching for Shi Feixian, and that his own marriage could wait. Suyue then asked if he would continue to be fixated on Ban Hua, who was marrying someone else. Shi Jin admitted that after years of devotion, it was not easy to simply let go.

Elsewhere, Zhou Changxiao dragged Ban Heng to a gambling house, complaining about losing all his money to new, skilled gamblers and pleading for Ban Heng’s help to reclaim his dignity. Ban Heng initially resisted, having promised Ban Hua he wouldn’t gamble, but eventually conceded to play just two rounds for his friend. After losing several rounds, another gambler boasted of his "Count Cheng’an amulet" as the source of his winning streak.

He then excitedly shared palace gossip, claiming that Count Cheng’an, Rong Xia, was actually the Emperor's illegitimate son. Other gamblers enthusiastically spread the rumor, speculating that Rong Xia was destined to become Prime Minister, or even inherit the throne, with an edict already written. One gambler even displayed a doll of Rong Xia dressed in Crown Prince attire. The widespread rumors eventually reached Ban Hua, who angrily confronted the gossiping crowd.

Rong Xia, however, seemed unfazed by the idle talk, remarking that he was used to such whispers. Ban Hua, on the other hand, was annoyed that he had become the subject of such gossip ever since they had gotten together. Rong Xia playfully suggested the doll resembling him was rather cute and they should each get one to make a pair. Just then, an attendant rushed over to Ban Hua with urgent news: Ban Heng had been detained at the gambling house.

Episode 26 Recap

Ban Hua entered a chaotic gambling house, searching for her brother Ban Heng. Rong Xia, who was with her, overheard people gambling on scandalous rumors concerning the imperial family, specifically whether Count Cheng’an was His Majesty's love child. Rong Xia immediately stepped forward to scold them, asserting that such matters of the royal family should not be discussed lightly or gambled upon. However, the gambling house owner retorted, asking who Rong Xia was and reminding him this was his turf.

Just then, Ban Hua appeared with Ban Heng. She immediately asserted her authority, stating that no one dared abuse her man. The owner, recognizing Princess Fule and Count Cheng’an, quickly apologized. Ban Hua cut him off, declaring that matters on the gambling table should be resolved by gambling rules.

She proposed a wager: if she won, the gambling table would be removed, and they would never again speak ill of Count Cheng’an; if she lost, she would never inquire into their gambling again, and all of Rong Xia's money would be theirs. Rong Xia attempted to interject, but Ban Hua confidently declared, "Your business is mine. Relax. I won’t lose."

Despite not having practiced for a long time, Ban Hua, once known as the capital's legendary gambling master, easily won. The terrified owner knelt and promised to remove the table, vowing never to use Count Cheng’an or the imperial family as a subject for gambling again. Ban Hua then turned to Ban Heng, chiding him for gambling again.

She explained that life, like gambling, should not be taken too seriously, emphasizing the importance of knowing when to advance and when to retreat to avoid complete ruin. Rong Xia, listening intently, recognized her underlying message was also meant for him and expressed his gratitude.

He also acknowledged that the Emperor's decision for them to marry at the Great Moon Palace was a form of compensation for her, though the rumors would stir conflict, he assured Ban Hua he would handle it. At the imperial palace, Prince Luo brazenly raised the circulating rumors that Count Cheng’an was His Majesty’s love child. The Emperor, enraged, ordered Prince Luo to leave.

The Empress tried to mediate, assuring His Majesty she did not believe the rumors but acknowledged their danger. The Emperor lamented that if Rong Xia truly were his son, he would have fewer worries. The Crown Prince, who was also present, surprisingly agreed, suggesting that if he had a brother like Rong Xia, it would be right for him to inherit the throne. This statement visibly disturbed both the Emperor and the Empress.

Meanwhile, considering the rumors and the recent incident where Rong Xia brought a dagger to court, Xie Chongjin decided it was time to act, relaying an order in Prince Luo's name for Rong Xia’s assassination. As Ban Hua sent Rong Xia back to his mansion, a sudden thunderstorm broke out, forcing her to stay at Rong’s Mansion overnight. While Rong Xia was in the kitchen planning Ban Hua's breakfast, a dozen assassins from Fude House suddenly appeared.

Rong Xia ordered his guard, Du Jiu, to protect Ban Hua, emphasizing her safety above all else. He confronted the assassins, who stated they were merely paid to kill him. Just as Rong Xia, fighting valiantly, was overwhelmed and injured, Ban Hua arrived, whipping her way through the attackers and declaring that no one would harm Rong Xia without her permission. When reinforcements from Rong’s Mansion arrived, the remaining assassins retreated.

However, Ban Hua, having sustained severe injuries, collapsed into Rong Xia’s arms and fell unconscious. Elsewhere, a drunken Prince Luo sought out Shi Feixian, professing his deep affection. Shi Feixian assured him that her heart belonged only to him. Worried that Shi Feixian, who feared thunder, was alone, Xie Wanyu went to Prince Luo's mansion to comfort her. However, upon entering, she discovered Prince Luo and Shi Feixian in a passionate embrace. Enraged, Xie Wanyu slapped Prince Luo.

Shi Feixian quickly knelt, begging Xie Wanyu for forgiveness and claiming she and Prince Luo were in love. Xie Wanyu confronted Shi Feixian, reminding her of her recent confession of love for Count Cheng'an and accusing her of lying. Shi Feixian admitted to the deceit, theatrically threatening to take her own life if she wasn't forgiven. Prince Luo intervened, dismissing Xie Wanyu and insisting his heart belonged only to Shi Feixian.

Heartbroken and betrayed, Xie Wanyu realized there was nothing left for her in the capital. She left the mansion, riding through the night until she found refuge in a mountain cave. Coincidentally, Xie Wanyu found Ban Heng in the very cave where he was preparing an elaborate proposal setting for Rong Xia and Ban Hua. Seeing Xie Wanyu soaking wet, Ban Heng bluntly gave her a wedding dress he had prepared for Ban Hua to change into.

His practical and unvarnished advice that she should live for herself and could even outlive the prince to remarry profoundly impacted Xie Wanyu. The next morning, she presented Ban Heng with her wristband as a thank-you gift, declaring her decision to divorce Prince Luo and take control of her own destiny, just like Ban Hua. Elsewhere, Shi Feixian was informed by a physician that she needed to improve her health to conceive a child.

Her maid, seeing Prince Luo’s continuous presence, speculated that Shi Feixian would soon become the new princess. Rong Xia visited the Crown Prince, informing him of the assassination attempt and hinting at the culprit. He directly accused Prince Luo, revealing he had discovered the prince's ties to the martial artists who attacked him. The Crown Prince, however, defended his brother, believing it was a misunderstanding. Disappointed by the Crown Prince’s naivety, Rong Xia departed.

He then met with Xie Chongjin, who, despite having passed on the kill order, now proposed an alliance. Rong Xia saw through his intentions, knowing Xie Chongjin feared losing influence now that Shi Feixian was with Prince Luo and wanted to use him to eliminate her. Rong Xia resolved to tackle the problem by striking at its root. Back at Rong’s Mansion, Ban Heng arrived, distraught to see Ban Hua still unconscious.

Her father, Ban Huai, explained that while her physical wounds had healed, she seemed unwilling to wake up. Rong Xia, holding Ban Hua's hand, vowed to her parents that he would stay by her side, no matter how long it took for her to awaken.

Episode 27 Recap

Rong Xia received a letter from the Crown Prince's messenger containing the official findings regarding the recent assassination attempt. His own informer corroborated that individuals from Prince Luo's Wude Palace were seen entering and exiting a specific courtyard, confirming Xie Chongjin's earlier intelligence. The Crown Prince's report attributed the attack to remnants of Prime Minister Yan's faction, a conclusion Rong Xia immediately recognized as merely assigning blame to convenient scapegoats.

He decided against informing the Crown Prince about Prince Luo concealing Shi Feixian, reasoning that the Crown Prince, being inherently good-natured and valuing brotherhood, would struggle to uncover the full truth involving his sibling. Instead, Rong Xia concluded that Commander Shi Jin was the optimal person to inform. He explained to his concerned aide that Shi Feixian was a crucial element in balancing the power struggle between Prince Luo and Xie Chongjin.

Her presence, he believed, would ensure Xie Chongjin remained cautious and prevent Prince Luo from fully trusting him, thus deterring Prince Luo from taking any extreme measures. Meanwhile, Shi Jin located Shi Feixian in the courtyard. He expressed his relief at finding her and offered to find her a safe place to live. However, Shi Feixian responded coldly, stating that his words of concern were "too late" given her banishment.

She declared her refusal to ever re-enter the Shi family, asserting that since her grandfather had chosen to abandon her, she too had the right to choose her path. Shi Jin questioned if she intended to depend on Jiang Luo, to which Shi Feixian pointed out the difficulty of surviving alone in the capital without such an alliance.

She then challenged Shi Jin, stating that Prince Luo, though "scheming and cruel," was no more likely to abandon her than the Shi family was. She criticized the Shi family's allegiance to the Crown Prince, calling him "timid" and questioning his ability to govern. Shi Feixian even offered to put in a good word for Shi Jin with Prince Luo to advance his career, but Shi Jin firmly stated his only concern was her safety.

Ultimately, Shi Feixian refused to leave with him, though she did request to see her sister, Suyue. News of Shi Jin's visit quickly reached Prince Luo, whose irritation intensified when Xie Wanyu appeared and calmly declared her intention to divorce him. Prince Luo reacted with fury, asserting that only he had the right to initiate a divorce.

When Xie Wanyu threatened to appeal to the Empress, he ordered his guards to confine her to her residence, chillingly informing her that she was "still useful" to him and he could not allow her to depart. Ban Hua remained unconscious despite her family's efforts. When Rong Xia arrived, he thanked them for their tireless care and assured them he would take over.

As he tenderly confessed his lifelong devotion to Ban Hua, vowing to remain by her side indefinitely, she stirred and playfully asked him to continue his "sweet words," admitting she had been awake for a while, savoring his rare display of affection. Overjoyed, Rong Xia promised to speak such words to her for a lifetime. With heartfelt sincerity, he pleaded with her to promise she would never leave him, and she readily pledged her lifelong commitment.

After Ban Hua's awakening, her family conveyed how much they had worried about her. Touched by their devotion, Ban Hua resolved to protect them and Rong Xia, suggesting they move outside the city to escape the dangers of court life. Rong Xia, however, explained that he needed to remain in the Palace, as abandoning their duties would allow Prince Luo to seize the throne, leading to suffering for the common people.

He promised Ban Hua he would ensure his own safety. Later, when Ban Hua asked for her finest embroidered clothes to go out, her parents grew flustered, hinting that the clothes had been "used." Ban Heng interjected, revealing that Xie Wanyu had borrowed the dress, which unsettled Ban Hua. Suyue visited Shi Feixian and found her transformed into a cold and calculating individual.

Shi Feixian chillingly implied her involvement in the assassination that injured Ban Hua, callously referring to it as a "gift" for Suyue, as it served to break Rong Xia's heart. A stunned Suyue exclaimed that Prince Luo was responsible, but Shi Feixian countered that as brothers, the princes should work together.

Despite his sister’s chilling demeanor, Shi Jin, upon hearing Suyue's account, chose to believe Shi Feixian was merely "angry" and "lost her way," urging Suyue to keep the matter secret. He vowed to help Shi Feixian see the truth and leave Prince Luo. Suyue appealed to the Crown Prince, informing him that Prince Luo had brought Shi Feixian back to the capital and urging him to intervene.

The Crown Prince, however, was reluctant to meddle and dismissed Suyue's concerns, suggesting that Prince Luo held "deep love" for Shi Feixian. He even proposed that Shi Feixian marry Prince Luo as a concubine to ensure her safety. Suyue vehemently objected, warning the Crown Prince that his support was dwindling and such a move could cause his remaining allies to defect. The Crown Prince, however, remained unconvinced that his brother was as sinister as Suyue claimed.

Meanwhile, Xie Chongjin approached Prince Luo, apologizing for Xie Wanyu's recent "nonsense" and seeking permission to visit his sister. Once with her, Xie Chongjin confronted Xie Wanyu about her determination to divorce Prince Luo, dismissing her concerns about Shi Feixian.

He insisted that divorce was out of the question, arguing that with two prime ministers fallen and the Crown Prince weakened, an alliance with Prince Luo was the Xie family's only viable path forward, a future he would not allow her "willfulness" to jeopardize. Xie Wanyu retorted that while he feared being controlled, she had always been controlled by him and their father, before dismissing him.

Ban Heng meticulously oversaw the secret preparation of a proposal setting in a courtyard, but Ban Hua unexpectedly stumbled upon it. She immediately noticed the elaborate wedding jewelry, and though Ban Heng tried to claim it was for himself, she quickly deduced that Rong Xia was behind the setup. Pleased, she then noticed that the wedding dress appeared to have been worn.

After finding a stray hair on the gown and threatening him with extra sword practice, Ban Hua pressured Ban Heng into confessing that Xie Wanyu had borrowed the dress. Rong Xia arrived and led Ban Hua to a cave, where he instructed her to keep her eyes closed.

Upon his command, she opened them to a breathtaking display: fireflies illuminated the cavern, forming shapes that depicted significant moments from their shared past—ice-skating, him playing the Qin, their first hunt, and their unexpected first kiss. Ban Hua, realizing the depth of his preparations, remarked that he had "planned it a long time ago," but Rong Xia gently corrected her, calling it "fate."

He told her that upon their return to the capital, he would seek the Emperor's permission for them to retire to the countryside, far from courtly life. He then knelt and proposed, asking, "Hua, will you marry me?" However, haunted by a vivid dream in which she was struck by an arrow and died, Ban Hua unexpectedly refused his proposal, leaving Rong Xia dejected. The waiting fireworks launched prematurely, confusing Ban Heng, who confronted Ban Hua.

He demanded to know why she had rejected Rong Xia after all his efforts, including preparing three wedding dresses and tirelessly catching glowworms. He pressed her, asking if it was due to her dream, but Ban Hua curtly told him it was "none of your business" and secluded herself. Later, Du Jiu arrived to deliver a letter from Rong Xia, explaining that his master felt he had been "too abrupt" and was now "ashamed" to face her.

Ban Hua's mother, sensing her daughter's turmoil, gently counseled her. She recalled how others had once predicted her own marriage would be unhappy but it had turned out joyful. She urged Ban Hua not to let a moment of timidity cause her to miss her "lifetime beloved one," stressing that a connection between soulmates is "the most precious of all" and that "life is what you make it to be, but not destined." Meanwhile, Rong Xia, overcome with self-doubt, decided to return home. But as he turned to leave, he and Du Jiu looked up to see fireworks illuminating the night sky.

Episode 28 Recap

Rong Xia, feeling he had been too abrupt, was hesitant to face Ban Hua, but Du Jiu pointed out that she was rapidly approaching. Arriving on horseback amidst a display of fireworks, Ban Hua boldly declared that the man she loved could not retreat. She confessed her earlier hesitation had caused him pain, but now she regretted it and asked if he was still willing to marry her, asserting that while she could refuse him, he could not refuse her.

In response, Rong Xia immediately kissed her, causing Du Jiu to quickly look away. Nearby, Ban Hua's mother proudly remarked that her timely advice had ensured the expensive fireworks were not wasted. Under the fireworks, Rong Xia and Ban Hua vowed to never be separated, and Rong Xia recited a poetic couplet for the occasion. Meanwhile, Shi Feixian watched the same fireworks alone, her heart heavy, lamenting how drastically her circumstances had changed.

Witnessing his sister's happiness, Ban Heng complained about being overlooked, feeling sad and isolated, which led his thoughts to Xie Wanyu. Noticing Ban Heng's mood, Ban Huai teased him about wanting to marry. Ban Heng insisted he preferred his carefree single life, a sentiment his mother challenged, arguing that true happiness required a partner. Elsewhere, a dejected Xie Wanyu felt her culinary talents were meaningless because no one, except perhaps Ban Heng, truly understood her.

After a tender farewell where Rong Xia promised to return from court, he instructed Du Jiu to keep the Ban family from getting involved in his assassination investigation, as new evidence revealed a more intricate plot than first assumed. Inside her mansion, Ban Hua vowed to find Rong Xia’s attacker and ordered her aide, Softy, to keep her own investigation secret from him.

Softy presented a price list from an assassin organization called Fude House, which had bounties on many officials, including Rong Xia and Ban Hua. The notable absence of any Xie family members led Ban Hua to suspect Xie Chongjin's involvement. Ban Heng was dismayed that his own bounty was a mere 100 taels, far less than Rong Xia's, to which Ban Hua playfully suggested that no one was willing to pay for his life.

That night, Ban Hua and Ban Heng secretly entered Xie Mansion. They encountered an old man whom Ban Hua identified by his silent, powerful footsteps as a master and the likely head of the assassins who attacked Rong Xia. When the man and his companions reacted aggressively, her suspicions were confirmed. Later, in Ban Hua's boudoir, they were joined by Shi Jin, who explained he had followed them out of concern.

Despite Shi Jin's discomfort about being in a lady's room, which could lead to gossip, Ban Hua dismissed his concerns. Their discussion on how to find Fude House was interrupted when Ban Huai burst in with Rong Xia. Finding Ban Heng and Shi Jin in his daughter's room, one of them on her bed, Ban Huai flew into a rage.

Ban Heng claimed they were discussing swordsmanship, while Shi Jin insisted their conduct was honorable, an explanation Ban Huai found preposterous given Ban Hua’s engagement. He began to scold and beat a fleeing Ban Heng with a ruler. Rong Xia, remaining calm, revealed he was also investigating Fude House and proposed they share information. He playfully warned Ban Hua that if she held another clandestine meeting in her room, he would guard it every night.

Just then, Du Jiu reported that Fude House's accountant, Zhao Xiancai, and its killers would all be meeting at Yuzhen House, the capital’s top teahouse, the next day. Rong Xia found their audacity surprising and decided they needed to observe the situation firsthand. Meanwhile, Shi Feixian feigned kindness to Jiang Luo, suggesting he not neglect Xie Wanyu for her sake.

Misinterpreting this as a sign of her gentle nature, Jiang Luo reassured her that he intended to divorce Xie Wanyu and install Shi Feixian by his side legitimately. The next day, Ban Heng went to Yuzhen House and deliberately caused a scene, which led him to the private room where the assassins were meeting. Du Jiu arrived just in time to pull him to safety.

Later, Ban Heng recounted that the group's leader strongly resembled the man from the Xie mansion. After Du Jiu confirmed Fude House’s accountant was also present, Rong Xia concluded that the man Ban Heng saw was indeed their leader. He advised against rash action, and Ban Hua subtly suggested that Ban Heng’s disruptive behavior could serve as effective bait. A physician discovered that Shi Feixian's tea was laced with Huanhua Plant, a herb that causes infertility.

Realizing Xie Chongjin was trying to render her barren, she vowed revenge. That night, Xie Chongjin was ambushed and severely injured by assassins. Count Xie begged Ban Huai for help, and Madam Yin generously sent their skilled Physician Yu to treat Xie Chongjin. Ban Hua and Ban Heng returned to Yuzhen House, where Ban Heng again created a disturbance, drawing out the Fude House boss. As assassins tried to flee, Du Jiu intercepted one, and the ensuing fight broke out.

Shi Jin protected Ban Hua from harm. Ban Hua offered the boss a deal if he exposed Xie Chongjin, but he refused, citing the code of the underworld. In a final act of loyalty, all the captured Fude House assassins committed suicide by poison, ensuring the organization was finished. Jiang Luo formally welcomed Shi Feixian into his residence. Upon learning of Fude House's destruction and Xie Chongjin's injury, he was stunned.

Shi Feixian fueled his suspicion by suggesting only the Crown Prince could have orchestrated an alliance between Rong Xia and Shi Jin, aiming to weaken Jiang Luo's power. Concurrently, Xie Wanyu learned of her brother’s injury and was stopped by guards from leaving. Shi Feixian hypocritically intervened, claiming she had already gotten Jiang Luo’s permission for her to go.

At the Xie Mansion, a distraught Xie Chongjin learned from Physician Yu that while his life was saved, he could never father children. Ban Hua and Ban Heng deduced that the attack, which only targeted his ability to have heirs, was likely a "crime of passion." Soon after, they were summoned to the palace, where the Emperor gifted them a grand residence for their wedding, insisting it be celebrated with great pomp.

Episode 29 Recap

The Crown Prince expressed his unease about Jiang Luo bringing Shi Feixian back to his mansion. Ban Hua, present during the conversation, sharply criticized the Crown Prince for his indecisiveness, particularly when it came to Jiang Luo. She reminded him that Jiang Luo was responsible for sending assassins to kill her father, the Count, yet the Crown Prince had covered for him by blaming the former Prime Minister Yan's men.

Ban Hua warned that such indulgence would not be appreciated by Jiang Luo, though the Crown Prince maintained that Jiang Luo, despite being impulsive, was not inherently a bad person. Shi Feixian visited Xie Chongjin, gloating over his injuries and revealing she had given him "Huanhua herbs" as a "thank-you gift." She then informed him with pleasure that his Fude House had been destroyed the previous night.

She claimed it was the Crown Prince's troops but insinuated that Count Cheng'an (Rong Xia) was the true instigator. Furious, Xie Chongjin realized she was the one who had orchestrated the assassination attempt on him. Shi Feixian presented him with two options: either join her in helping Jiang Luo ascend the throne, or face mutual destruction. Just as Xie Chongjin was boiling with rage, his sister Xie Wanyu arrived with chicken soup, prompting Shi Feixian to depart.

Xie Chongjin desperately pleaded with Xie Wanyu to return to Jiang Luo's mansion. He lamented that their family's fortunes had waned: their father was aging and would soon retire, their brother Xie Qilin was blind and could never hold office, and Xie Chongjin himself was injured and unable to have children, rendering him "useless." He stressed that the Xie family's future and reputation now depended entirely on her. Overwhelmed by the heavy responsibility, Xie Wanyu could only weep.

Ban Hua and Rong Xia visited the residence bestowed upon them by His Majesty, admiring the peonies that Ban Hua loved. Rong Xia named the place "Baishou Garden," signifying his wish for them to live together until old age. Meanwhile, Ban Heng was on the street, placing bets on whether Ban Hua and Rong Xia's marriage would actually happen.

He openly bet against his sister's union, comically claiming that since he always lost bets, this was his way of ensuring their successful marriage. While gambling, he spotted a dejected Xie Wanyu and, leaving his game, went to talk to her. Ban Heng and Xie Wanyu bonded over cooking. Xie Wanyu, still distressed, expressed her longing for good almond shortcakes, lamenting that she couldn't find any that suited her taste.

Ban Heng offered her the use of his family's kitchen, and they began to cook together. Xie Wanyu's mood visibly lifted as she displayed impressive culinary skills, even surprising Ban Heng. Subsequently, when Ban Hua held a chef selection competition at the Ban Mansion, she learned of Xie Wanyu's talent and enlisted her help in judging.

Xie Wanyu rigorously assessed the candidates, dismissing some for unappetizing presentation or poor hygiene, and ultimately chose a chef whom she believed truly understood and valued ingredients. Softy and Du Jiu went to a shop to purchase wedding bedding for their respective masters. They bickered playfully while selecting quilts, discussing their masters' preferences, with Softy even mentioning Ban Hua's habit of kicking off her quilt.

During their lively discussion, they accidentally stumbled and fell onto each other, both blushing deeply at the unexpected contact. Princess Anle arrived at the Ban Mansion and playfully teased Ban Hua about her upcoming marriage, before inviting her to her own mansion for a reunion. Rong Xia reluctantly agreed. Princess Anle dismissed his concerns about the late hour, assuring him that she would return Ban Hua "undamaged."

She then urged Ban Hua to seize the chance to "go crazy" before her marriage. Du Jiu informed Rong Xia that Princess Anle had invited numerous male followers to her mansion for a "bachelorette party" for Ban Hua. Growing increasingly jealous, Rong Xia immediately went to Princess Anle’s residence, carrying two buckets of water. He arrived to find Ban Hua being entertained by several accomplished men.

Feigning concern, Rong Xia abruptly splashed water on the men who were drawing too close to Ban Hua, claiming he believed they were "up to no good." He then insisted on taking Ban Hua home to change her wet clothes. Princess Anle teased him about his obvious jealousy, offering clothes from her own mansion. However, Rong Xia firmly made excuses about Ban Hua requiring specific custom-made soaps and a precise water temperature.

When Princess Anle pressed him further, Rong Xia, in a burst of possessiveness, declared he would bathe Ban Hua himself. Princess Anle privately explained to Ban Hua that her intention was to provoke Rong Xia's jealousy, and Ban Hua, understanding, decided to play along by pretending to be reluctant to leave. As expected, Rong Xia displayed clear signs of jealousy.

Later, Ban Hua continued to tease him, mischievously remarking on the "powerful chest" of a Mr. Qin she had met at Princess Anle's mansion. This infuriated Rong Xia, who then shut Ban Hua out of the room. Ban Hua, however, quickly used a combination of apologies and lavish praise, proclaiming Rong Xia to be the most handsome man in the world. Her persistence soon pacified him.

They then discussed their future life together in Baishou Garden, with Ban Hua playfully deducing that he disliked her zither playing. Shi Feixian visited Xie Wanyu, bringing a cup of soup. Xie Wanyu's maid recognized it as containing "Huanhua herbs," a contraceptive, and warned her mistress. Shi Feixian quickly claimed the medicine was for her own use, feigning remorse for having become Jiang Luo's concubine.

To gain sympathy, Shi Feixian reminisced about fabricated childhood memories and presented Xie Wanyu with homemade almond shortcakes. Xie Wanyu, though not recalling the memories, was visibly softened by Shi Feixian's seemingly pathetic situation. However, she remained pragmatic, realizing that as long as she was the prince's wife, she could not truly be friends with Shi Feixian and that the Xie family's future was her priority. The delicious shortcakes only deepened her anxiety about her difficult position.

Jiang Luo sternly warned Xie Wanyu not to mention divorce or Shi Feixian when they met the Empress. Upon their arrival, the Empress angrily reprimanded Jiang Luo for bringing Shi Feixian back and creating chaos. She then turned her ire on Xie Wanyu, criticizing her for failing to manage the harem and, more importantly, for not yet producing an heir.

The Empress warned Jiang Luo that if he failed to produce a child soon, His Majesty might send him to a distant fief. She then advised Xie Wanyu to focus on her duty to bear an heir. Still injured, Xie Chongjin insisted on seeing Jiang Luo, telling his family he could not bear to leave the Xie family's dire situation for Xie Wanyu to resolve alone. Meanwhile, Jiang Luo confided in Shi Feixian about the Empress's threat.

Shi Feixian, feigning concern, offered to leave, but Jiang Luo passionately refused. She then proposed a daring solution: preventing the Crown Prince from ascending the throne. Jiang Luo enthusiastically agreed. Just then, a wounded Xie Chongjin arrived, a clear indication to Shi Feixian that he had chosen to ally with them. Shi Feixian then unveiled an audacious scheme, questioning whether Jiang Luo had the courage to follow through.

The Crown Prince summoned Ban Hua and Rong Xia, confessing that Jiang Luo was indeed responsible for the recent assault on them and apologizing for covering it up. While Ban Hua accepted his apology, she warned him of the potential dangers of Jiang Luo's unchecked malice. The Crown Prince then explained that His Majesty was unwell and had entrusted him with the upcoming Farming Festival.

He feared Jiang Luo might cause trouble during the sacred ceremony to damage his reputation and requested that Ban Hua and Rong Xia attend the sacrifice. Ban Hua pointed out that only married couples were permitted to attend, but the Crown Prince produced an Imperial Edict, revealing that His Majesty had already decreed them an imperially-bestowed couple.

Episode 30 Recap

Following the Crown Prince's invitation, Shi Jin, guarding the temple entrance for the farming sacrifice ceremony, greeted Ban Hua and Rong Xia with surprise. Rong Xia explained that His Majesty had approved their marriage, allowing them to attend as an engaged couple. Shi Jin offered his congratulations before welcoming them inside. Within the temple, the Crown Prince and Crown Princess spoke with Jiang Luo and Xie Wanyu about having children.

The Crown Prince encouraged them to have a child soon, but Jiang Luo subtly retorted that he would not dare have an heir before the Crown Prince, who had none himself. Meanwhile, Ban Hua noticed Xie Wanyu’s nervousness and advised her not to compromise in love or waste her life on someone she did not care for, calling Jiang Luo a fool. The ceremony commenced, and initially, Rong Xia and Ban Hua saw no suspicious actions from Jiang Luo.

However, after the main rituals, when juice was served, his plan went into motion. The cup intended for the Crown Prince, which Jiang Luo had poisoned, was mistakenly given to Ban Hua. After she drank some of it, a panicked Xie Wanyu feigned illness and deliberately bumped into her, spilling the remainder of the poisoned drink. Shortly after, Ban Hua coughed up blood and collapsed.

A physician diagnosed her with a strange and potent poison that could only be countered with another toxic substance. With Ban Hua unconscious and unable to take the medicine, Rong Xia disregarded the physician’s warnings, drank the toxic antidote himself, and fed it to her mouth-to-mouth. He collapsed immediately after, but his actions saved Ban Hua, who soon regained consciousness. Later, Jiang Luo furiously confronted Xie Wanyu, demanding to know what she had seen.

He accused her of knowing about the poison and seeing him put it in the Crown Prince's cup. When she resolutely refused to change her story, he ordered her to be confined to her room. At the palace, the Empress tried to hide the incident from the Emperor, but he overheard her and demanded the truth. Learning Ban Hua had been poisoned, the Emperor was enraged by the attack, the attempt to hide it, and the Crown Prince's incompetence.

He ordered a vast quantity of the finest tonics to be sent to the Ban Mansion for Ban Hua’s recovery. The delivery was so large that Ban Huai, overwhelmed, had to be convinced by the palace attendant to accept it all.

Later, while the Ban family and Rong Xia were having hot pot, Ban Hua recalled Physician Yu’s grim prognosis: a residual poison remained in her body that he could not cure, and her survival now depended on her own fortitude. Feigning discomfort, she asked Rong Xia for a walk. They went to a wishing tree, where she secretly wrote on a ribbon, "May Rong Xia live a happy and carefree life, and find a beloved to be with forever."

Rong Xia wrote, "I wish to have one person's heart, and never be apart until old age," and they tied their ribbons to the tree. Feeling her life slipping away, Ban Hua began telling Rong Xia what to do after her death, but he tearfully interrupted, vowing to follow her to the afterlife. She then changed the subject, wistfully describing a future where they have children and grow old together. As she finished speaking, she collapsed unconscious into his arms.

The Crown Prince appeared before the Emperor, admitting his incompetence. Enraged by his son's repeated failures, the Emperor scathingly criticized him. The Crown Prince once again requested to be relieved of his duties as Regent, and this time, the furious Emperor agreed. Back at Ban’s Mansion, Ban Hua’s condition worsened. Physician Yu admitted the only hope was to get the antidote from the poisoner. Rong Xia immediately set out to do so.

When news of Ban Hua's critical state reached the palace, the Emperor was so overcome with grief and anger that he collapsed, coughing up blood. Meanwhile, Shi Feixian visited her grandfather, Shi Chonghai, in prison. She coldly informed him that the Emperor would not survive the night and Jiang Luo would soon take power.

She promised to restore the Shi family's status, causing Shi Chonghai to kneel in gratitude, though she reminded him that their family ties were severed when they abandoned her. Rong Xia arrived at Jiang Luo's residence, the Wude Palace, to get the antidote. Shi Feixian met him and laid out two conditions: first, he must break his engagement with Ban Hua and sever all ties with her family; second, he must help Jiang Luo ascend the throne.

She warned him that the 'Heart-Devouring Poison' was fatal in nine days, and six had already passed. Returning to the Ban Mansion, Rong Xia told the family he had failed to get the antidote. Ban Huai compassionately reassured him they did not blame him.

Later, at Ban Hua's bedside, Rong Xia spoke to her unconscious form, calling her his "medicine" and lamenting that while she would want them to face this together, this was a gamble he could not afford to lose. With a heavy heart, he tore up their marriage contract, vowing that this would be the last time he saw her, having made his choice to save her life at a great personal cost.

Episode 31 Recap

As a consequence of his deal with Shi Feixian, Rong Xia stood by the unconscious Ban Hua's bed and tore their marriage contract to pieces before departing. Despite being asleep, tears streamed from Ban Hua's eyes. Meanwhile, an urgent summons from the palace announced that the Emperor was unwell, prompting Ban Huai to rush over. Inside the palace, the frail Emperor summoned Rong Xia.

With his last breath, he urged Rong Xia to diligently assist the kindhearted Crown Prince, expressing his concern for the future of the Daye regime and its people. The Emperor also apologized to Rong Xia, vowing to atone in the netherworld for the past wrongs committed against Rong Xia's father. Shortly after, the ministers waiting outside heard Rong Xia announce that the Emperor had passed away. As the mourning bells tolled, the Empress Dowager collapsed upon hearing the news.

The Crown Prince and Jiang Luo knelt before the late Emperor's body, where Jiang Luo noted that Rong Xia had secured the testamentary edict. Concurrently, Xie Chongjin received a newly made imperial robe from Shi Feixian, planning to use it to ensure Jiang Luo's immediate ascension. When Shi Feixian asked about their contingency plan should Rong Xia betray them, Xie Chongjin revealed he had already stationed men outside the Ban family's residence, ready to eliminate them first.

Unbeknownst to them, Xie Wanyu overheard their conversation and instructed her maid, Yun, to warn the Ban family, but Shi Feixian intercepted Yun before she could leave. Jiang Luo confidently strode into the main hall wearing the imperial robe. Rong Xia then publicly read the late Emperor's edict, which shockingly appointed the Crown Prince, Jiang Zhang, as the vassal king of Shu, and named the second prince, Jiang Luo, as the new Emperor.

Amidst murmurs of disbelief, Jiang Luo asserted his authority by ordering the Empress Dowager to be escorted away and commanding the execution of a minister who defied him. He then appointed Xie Chongjin as Prime Minister of the Left and reinstated Shi Chonghai to his former position.

As Shi Jin prepared to leave with the newly-appointed King of Shu and his wife, Xie Chongjin stopped them, declaring that the Emperor had ordered Jiang Zhang to the imperial mausoleum to guard the late Emperor's tomb. In the main hall, Ban Huai furiously berated Rong Xia for his betrayal, but Rong Xia remained impassive while Ban Huai was forcibly removed, still shouting curses.

Meanwhile, Shi Feixian gave an antidote to Shi Jin, falsely claiming she had obtained it from the new Emperor out of concern for Ban Hua. Though skeptical, Shi Jin rushed the antidote to the Ban Mansion. Ban Hua regained consciousness shortly after taking it, and her parents expressed their profound gratitude. Upon waking, Ban Hua asked about the situation at the palace, and her attendant blurted out that Rong Xia had torn up their marriage contract.

Later, when commoners gathered outside Rong's residence to curse him, Ban Hua arrived to defend his name. Rong Xia opened the door and spoke cruelly to Ban Hua, claiming he had only used her as a stepping stone to investigate his family's tragedy. Heartbroken, Ban Hua declared that she was the one abandoning him, not the other way around. She then knelt in sorrow before her grandmother's memorial tablet.

Seeing her distress, Shi Jin comforted her, assuring her that those who truly cared for her only wished for her happiness and safety. Later, Shi Jin confronted Rong Xia, who admitted he had no other choice and asked Shi Jin to take good care of Ban Hua. At that moment, Shi Jin realized it was Rong Xia's influence that had prompted Shi Feixian to provide the antidote. Elsewhere, Shi Feixian delivered a phoenix robe to Xie Wanyu.

When she angrily refused it, Shi Feixian threatened the lives of the Xie family, forcing a resentful Xie Wanyu to comply. After dreaming of her family's home being ransacked, Ban Hua decided her father must resign from his post so the family could retreat to the suburbs. She gave her father the Pardon Token, granted by the late emperor, for his protection. Rong Xia and Shi Jin secretly met with the King of Shu, Jiang Zhang.

The former Crown Prince said he would not mind relinquishing the throne if Jiang Luo could be a wise ruler. Rong Xia, however, warned that Jiang Zhang would be in grave danger once Jiang Luo's power was secure, reaffirming his commitment to restoring the throne to him. News of the secret meeting reached Jiang Luo, and Shi Chonghai suggested making an example of someone to assert authority.

In court, Ban Huai announced his resignation and offered his family's wealth to the treasury. When Jiang Luo questioned the Ban family's loyalty, Rong Xia, understanding the Emperor's intent, shockingly suggested that their mansion be searched and their property confiscated. Afterward, Shi Jin angrily confronted Rong Xia. Rong Xia explained his actions were a strategic move to save the Ban family from a worse fate, such as execution. Realizing his own impulsiveness, Shi Jin apologized. Rong Xia then asked Shi Jin to deliberately oppose him in court to prevent arousing suspicion.

Episode 32 Recap

Bad news reached the Ban family as Xie Qilin arrived, quickly followed by Xie Chongjin and his men, who had come to search their mansion under an imperial decree. His Majesty had approved Duke Ban’s resignation but accused the family of secretly hiding wealth, ordering all their property to be confiscated.

Ban Hua tried to entrust some bank notes to Xie Qilin, knowing he was trustworthy, but Xie Chongjin intervened, seizing the money despite Xie Qilin’s pleas for the family, reminding his brother that the Ban family had once saved his life. Xie Chongjin, however, insisted he was merely following orders and drove everyone out, leaving the once prosperous Ban household on the streets.

As they walked through the capital, they overheard mocking comments from passersby, who gossiped about the Ban family’s downfall, attributing it to the passing of the Princess Royal and Count Cheng’an siding with the current Emperor. Ban Hua blamed herself for not protecting the family, but her parents reassured her it was their responsibility.

With their suburban residence also sealed and only twenty taels left, Ban Heng bitterly blamed Ban Hua for entrusting their money to Xie Qilin, but Ban Hua corrected him, placing the blame squarely on Xie Chongjin. They decided to find an inn for the night. Ban Hua and Ban Heng planned to retrieve some treasures they had buried previously. However, upon reaching the spot, they found only a note stating, "For an emergency. Will repay double in the future."

Ban Heng was furious, cursing the thief, but Ban Hua, realizing who it was, dismissed the idea of confronting him. An enraged Ban Heng deduced the thief was Rong Xia, and Ban Hua's silence confirmed his suspicion, further fueling his outrage over the broken engagement and the theft. Ban Heng, still fuming, cursed Rong Xia with a series of misfortunes, but Ban Hua assured him she wasn’t foolish enough to still have feelings for him.

The next morning, Ban Hua offered her valuable earrings to Softy and Rocky, suggesting they pawn them to return home or find good husbands, but both loyal servants tearfully refused, vowing to stay with her even if it meant hardship. Just then, Ban Heng burst in with exciting news: they had found a place to live, Xiangle Mansion.

Shi Jin, who had arranged for the Ban family to stay at Xiangle Mansion, explained that the residence belonged to his uncle, who was away for three years mourning a deceased family member. He assured them they could stay without worry. Ban Hua thanked him, and Shi Jin, expressing his pleasure in helping, cautioned them to maintain a low profile, as he feared the Emperor might not easily let Duke Ban off.

Later, Softy suggested they go to a noodle restaurant in the area, a place Ban Hua had visited with Rong Xia. Shi Jin initially tried to discourage them, calling the restaurant too humble, but Ban Hua agreed for Softy’s sake. They indeed saw Rong Xia there, though no words were exchanged. Shi Jin, still concerned, asked Ban Hua if she understood Rong Xia’s actions.

Ban Hua admitted she had pondered them countless times, concluding his every move was to protect her family. However, she confessed that after enduring so many hardships, her only desire was to live a simple, peaceful life with her family, putting an end to the turbulent past. Life in Xiangle Mansion was modest. Yin Shi was reluctant to buy mosquito coils due to their limited funds, asking Rocky to give the last remaining ones to Ban Hua and Ban Heng.

Ban Hua, however, insisted they be used in her parents' room. When Ban Hua offered to find a way to earn money, Yin Shi revealed her plan: she would have Rocky buy seeds and eggs to grow vegetables and raise chickens in their yard, saving monthly expenses. She also planned to start a small business selling steamed buns, a skill she learned from her grandmother.

Meanwhile, in the palace, Jiang Luo was consumed by pleasure with Shi Feixian, refusing to attend court and ordering all memorials to be sent to Minister Xie and Minister Shi. As Jiang Luo fumed about the lack of volunteers to lead troops against rebels in Qizhou, who were robbing official grain supplies, Ban Hua requested an audience. She bravely volunteered to lead the troops and suppress the rebellion.

Despite objections from an official who deemed her unqualified as a woman, Ban Hua asserted her capabilities, reminding Jiang Luo of her martial prowess. When another official questioned her knowledge of military strategy, Ban Hua declared that she had studied the art of war with her grandfather, General Ban, since childhood, and it was her time to repay the country’s kindness.

When Rong Xia suggested sending an experienced vice-general to assist her, Jiang Luo dismissed his suggestion, praising Ban Hua’s loyalty and patriotism. He then appointed Ban Hua as the General to Pacify the Rebellion, ordering her to lead troops to Qizhou immediately. Her title of Princess Fule was restored, and her stipend reinstated. The Ban family was deeply worried about Ban Hua going to war.

Ban Heng questioned if she was doing it for money, but Ban Hua clarified she was trying to forge a path for their family. Her father warned her of the grave dangers of battle, but Ban Hua reiterated her resolve to be the Ban family's backbone, fearing that Jiang Luo would eventually move against them if they remained passive.

She emphasized that while their family was related to the imperial house, their true standing relied on her grandfather's military achievements and her grandmother's benevolence. Lacking her grandmother’s grace, Ban Hua would rely on her grandfather’s martial arts to prove that even after General Ban and the Princess Royal’s passing, the Ban family still had capable successors.

Ban Heng and Softy volunteered to join her, but Ban Hua instructed them to stay and protect their parents, explaining that their safety was crucial for her success. At court, Rong Xia knelt before Jiang Luo, requesting to accompany Princess Fule on the expedition, despite their broken engagement. Jiang Luo questioned his sincerity, making him kneel for a long time to demonstrate his resolve before the officials.

Meanwhile, Shi Jin explained to a curious official that Rong Xia’s true intention was to protect Ban Hua. In a prior conversation, Rong Xia had arranged for Shi Jin to take the Ban family out of the capital after Ban Hua’s departure, knowing that whether she succeeded or failed, Jiang Luo would find an excuse to harm her family. Shi Feixian, seeing Rong Xia kneeling, confronted him, scolding him for humiliating himself for Ban Hua.

Rong Xia coldly dismissed her, reaffirming his sole devotion to Ban Hua, stating he feared no death if he could share it with his beloved. Heartbroken, Shi Feixian realized her affections had been wishful thinking and declared their bond severed like spilled water. Witnessing this, Jiang Luo clenched his fists in fury and agreed to let Rong Xia join the expedition, determined that he would never return alive.

News of Rong Xia joining the expedition reached the Ban family, leaving Ban Heng bewildered by his actions. He pointed out how Rong Xia had torn up the marriage contract, helped Jiang Luo ascend the throne, and how it was Shi Jin who brought the antidote when Ban Hua was poisoned. Ban Hua then revealed that it was Rong Xia who had sought the antidote, and many of his seemingly cruel actions were strategic choices to protect them.

She confirmed her suspicions by checking with Shi Jin, who implicitly agreed. That night, Ban Hua secretly met Rong Xia. She accused him of acting alone without consulting her, explaining that his repeated interventions made her feel useless. She told him to remain in the capital to resolve the larger issues he had created, insisting he not accompany her. Rong Xia refused to let her venture into danger alone, believing Jiang Luo’s order to be a trap.

Despite their differing views, Ban Hua had Shi Jin knock Rong Xia unconscious, ensuring he couldn't follow her. The next day, Ban Hua arrived to lead her troops, only to find they were a ragtag group of criminals released from prison, granted a chance to atone for their sins by fighting. They were unruly and openly scorned being led by a woman. Ban Hua sternly warned them against desertion, citing the law of immediate execution for deserters.

She declared herself their Chief Commander and swore on the name of her grandfather, General Ban, that she would lead them to victory and bring them home safely. Meanwhile, Rong Xia regained consciousness to find Shi Jin standing guard. Shi Jin explained that he was entrusted by Ban Hua to keep him from joining the dangerous expedition. Undeterred, Rong Xia declared that he was never afraid to share life and death with her. Seizing an opportunity, he swiftly knocked Shi Jin unconscious, determined to reach Ban Hua.

Episode 33 Recap

Ban Hua led her soldiers out of the capital, only for Rong Xia to arrive, proclaiming he had been appointed Military Advisor by His Majesty to accompany her. Unwilling to engage with him, Ban Hua placed him under Commander Wang's charge, instructing that all communications from the Advisor must go through Wang. Later, Rong Xia privately informed Ban Hua that Jiang Luo had no intention of letting her return from the campaign.

He revealed that the late emperor, foreseeing Jiang Luo's potential actions, had entrusted him with a critical Tiger Tally, advising him to protect everyone's lives should the government change. Rong Xia explained that Jiang Luo wanted to make an example of the Ban family, and Minister Shi also sought the Tiger Tally. Therefore, the army given to Ban Hua, composed of criminals, was meant to disgrace her rather than fight, which was why Rong Xia felt compelled to follow.

Soon after, the soldiers discovered their grain supplies were insufficient for even three days. Commander Wang was instructed to check all supplies and ensure no one went hungry. Meanwhile, Shi Jin urged his sister, Shi Feixian, to advise His Majesty that quelling the rebellion was a serious matter. Shi Feixian initially dismissed his concerns, but Shi Jin detailed that Ban Hua's army was composed of criminals with less than 30% usable supplies and weapons.

Although Shi Feixian was unconcerned about Rong Xia joining the army, her expression shifted when Shi Jin warned that if the rebels grew stronger, the capital itself would be in grave danger. In the camp, unruly soldiers gambled openly, feeling abandoned by the Emperor. Ban Hua confronted them for defying military discipline, but they argued that a woman was unreliable and they were better off fending for themselves.

Ban Hua challenged them to a high-stakes gamble with their lives on the line. She defeated the first challenger, Ma Laosan, in a strength contest by using her wits, not brute force. The next challenger, Zhang Meng, also lost to her skill with a whip. Despite their defeat, Zhang Meng and other soldiers still refused to obey a woman.

Ban Hua sternly rebuked them, revealing her knowledge of their pasts: Zhang Meng had killed bandits who murdered his mother, while others had committed crimes for their female relatives. She questioned their disdain for women, asserting they had no right to look down on them. She then shared that she had learned martial arts and strategy from her grandfather, General Ban, and promised that if they followed her, they would return safely with honor.

Convinced, Zhang Meng and the others pledged their loyalty, and Ban Hua appointed Zhang Meng as vanguard. Ban Hua later acknowledged to Rong Xia that his provision of the soldiers' dossiers had been instrumental. She accepted him as her Military Advisor, but stated their relationship must remain professional on the battlefield, as she, the General, was responsible for everyone's lives. Back in the capital, Shi Feixian was furious to learn that Jiang Luo had gone to the Empress's Palace.

Inside, Jiang Luo ordered Empress Xie Wanyu to disrobe. Xie Wanyu defiantly retorted that he should seek out someone willing to comply and questioned his manhood, suggesting he give her title to Shi Feixian if he preferred. Enraged, Jiang Luo mocked her resolve, sneering that one woman would rather die than surrender, while another toyed with him. The army's grain shortage became a pressing issue.

Ban Hua led a group of soldiers, including Zhang Meng, to find edible wild herbs in the forest, as her grandfather had taught her. They were ambushed by rebels, and Zhang Meng was captured. The rebel leader, Zhao Zhong, demanded Ban Hua accompany him to Zhongzhou, telling her to have her army bring grain for an exchange. Ban Hua agreed, intending to scout the rebels' true strength.

Meanwhile, Du Jiu, secretly protecting the Ban family on Rong Xia's orders, was discovered by the entire family. He reported that Rong Xia had sent only one letter instructing him to protect them, with no news of the battle, and warned that Minister Shi's faction was watching them. In Zhongzhou, Ban Hua observed that the locals treated the rebels with familiarity, calling Zhao Zhong "Boss" and relying on him for food he'd reclaimed from the "damn emperor."

Zhao Zhong, a former Qizhou official whom she recognized, treated her with respect. Meanwhile, Rong Xia, hearing of her capture, devised a rescue. He ordered half the grain guards to retreat and the soldiers to feign fatigue, deducing the rebels would have to come for the grain. Ban Hua proposed to Zhao Zhong that she lead his men to "steal" grain from her own camp, offering to be tied up to prove her sincerity.

They arrived at the military granary to find it seemingly unguarded. As Zhao Zhong's men moved the grain, Rong Xia's forces, led by Zhang Meng, ambushed them and rescued Ban Hua. After a tense reunion where Ban Hua chided him for the delay, she declared Zhao Zhong was not an evil man and the "rebels" were merely starving commoners. Refusing to attack the city, she proposed using their military grain to aid the people.

Rong Xia revealed he had been safeguarding the treasures she and her brother had buried, which could be used to supplement their supplies. Witnessing her compassion, the captured Zhao Zhong surrendered and agreed to become her vice-general to assist in relief efforts. In the capital, Minister Shi Chonghai deceptively suggested to Jiang Luo that bringing the Ban family to the palace would ease Ban Hua's worries and ensure her loyalty. Jiang Luo agreed.

Aware of Xie Wanyu's affection for Ban Heng, Shi Feixian confronted the Empress with an ornament found on Ban Heng, hinting at an affair. She then warned that her grandfather was heading to the Ban residence, urging Xie Wanyu to act if she cared for Ban Heng. As Minister Shi's men arrived to arrest the Ban family, they had already begun to flee, aided by a plan orchestrated by Shi Jin and Wang Qu.

Shi Jin confronted his grandfather, pleading with him to spare the family, but Minister Shi dismissed him. Later, Minister Shi falsely reported to Jiang Luo that the Ban family had died in a fire. Minister Xie Chongjin then proposed they conceal the truth from Ban Hua and ambush both her and Rong Xia upon their return to the capital. Jiang Luo agreed, cynically calling it an act of "reuniting" the family.

Believing the lie, Xie Wanyu wept heartbrokenly before the charred remains of the Ban mansion. In Zhongzhou, Ban Hua and Zhao Zhong entered the city to distribute grain to the jubilant commoners. Ban Hua had also arranged for Akeqi to send sweet potatoes. Rong Xia noted her direct contact with Akeqi and suggested that as Military Advisor, he should handle future communications with Aipo State. The two shared a scarce baked sweet potato.

A letter from Wang Qu arrived, confirming that Jiang Luo had indeed tried to capture the Ban family, but Wang Qu and Shi Jin's scheme had successfully rescued them. The letter assured them the family was safe in a hidden cottage, advising caution. Ban Hua was relieved, expressing a faint hope that Jiang Luo might yet see reason and address the famine.

Episode 34 Recap

Xie Wanyu, lost and alone after finding the Ban family's residence burned to the ground, wandered the wilderness declaring she would rather starve than return to the palace. When two thugs accosted her, Ban Heng appeared to save her, only to find she had already fainted from fright. Meanwhile, in Zhongzhou, Ban Hua, lacking a clean military uniform, borrowed a dress from a local girl, instantly captivating the soldiers.

They flocked to her, reporting various trivial matters just for a glimpse of her in civilian clothes. Rong Xia noted that they were all there to admire her beauty and urged her to change back, expressing concern that her attire might undermine her authority. However, Ban Hua asserted that true prestige was not built on outward appearance, pointedly asking if the "trouble" was hers or his.

When Xie Wanyu awoke, she was overjoyed to see Ban Heng alive, embracing him tightly and admitting she feared she would never see him again after finding their residence destroyed. Touched by her concern, Ban Heng noticed she still had the bracelet he had given her, which had been confiscated by soldiers. He asked for it back, and as she tried to remove it, it slipped from her grasp.

Both reached for it, their heads gently knocking together, their hearts racing. Unbeknownst to them, Ban Huai and Yin Shi had witnessed the tender moment from afar and, not wanting to disturb them, quietly left. In Zhongzhou, Commander Wang expressed his worry that the imperial court, upon learning of Zhao Zhong's defection, would punish Ban Hua and Rong Xia. Ban Hua firmly declared that she would bear all responsibility, refusing to kill starving civilians to appease the Emperor.

After dismissing the others, she turned to Rong Xia, who was attempting to reconcile with her. Ignoring his personal plea, she voiced her suspicion of Commander Wang. Rong Xia admitted he already suspected the commander and had sent Li Hu to monitor him, reassuring her before again pressing her to reconcile. News of the situation reached Jiang Luo, who, in a fit of rage, ordered the immediate arrest of Ban Hua and Rong Xia for distributing military grain to rebels.

Shi Feixian and Xie Chongjin urged him to reconsider. Shi Feixian warned that such rash action could fuel rumors that he had withheld grain and intended to use the rebellion as an excuse to execute Ban Hua. Convinced to rethink, Jiang Luo dismissed them. Afterward, Shi Feixian approached Xie Chongjin, offering to reveal Xie Wanyu's whereabouts in exchange for his help in dispelling Jiang Luo's suspicion of her.

Xie Chongjin agreed, and she revealed that Xie Wanyu was with the Ban family in a small house outside the capital. Xie Wanyu settled in with the Ban family, offering to cook for them. Soon after, men sent by Xie Chongjin attacked, killing the guards. Ban Heng urged Xie Wanyu and his parents to flee while he created a diversion. Worried, Xie Wanyu doubled back to find him.

The two managed to hide together in the tall grass, evading the pursuit, with Ban Heng even suggesting they play dead. Meanwhile, Shi Feixian, by a pond, lamented to her maid that despite her position, Jiang Luo failed to understand her true feelings. Jiang Luo, passing by, overheard her. Seizing the opportunity, she explained that she always offered sincere advice, even if it led to misunderstanding, citing her past counsel to spare Count Cheng'an.

Convinced and now attributing his distrust to Rong Xia's manipulation, Jiang Luo apologized for his doubts and promised their hearts would be linked forever. In the capital, Ban Huai and Yin Shi were given refuge at the Xie mansion by Count Xie. Ban Huai complained about the simple meal, prompting the Count to explain the famine. Ban Huai then jokingly accused Count Xie of planning to hand them over to his son, Xie Chongjin.

The Count assured him he was merely repaying a debt for the Ban family's physician saving his son's life. Seizing the moment, Ban Huai playfully suggested they finalize the marriage between Ban Heng and Xie Wanyu. Count Xie reacted with shock, reminding Ban Huai that Xie Wanyu was the Queen. Back in Zhongzhou, Commander Wang was caught setting fire to a grain barn, destroying half the stored food.

He confessed he acted out of fear, believing Ban Hua's actions amounted to treason. Instead of executing him, Ban Hua declared that killing solves no problems and ordered Wang and his men expelled from the city. With the remaining food lasting less than three days, she tasked Zhao Zhong with finding more sources nearby. Starving and exhausted, Ban Heng and Xie Wanyu arrived at Ban Hua's residence in Zhongzhou.

A subordinate then reported on the Sun family, a wealthy household that had amassed a fortune by hoarding grain. They possessed a formidable "iron-chain barn," but the owner's daughter was notoriously fond of handsome men. Ban Hua realized Rong Xia was the perfect candidate for the mission. Rong Xia reluctantly went to the Sun mansion, where he met the formidable Miss Sun.

She acknowledged his good looks but immediately accused him of being unfaithful to Princess Ban and declared she would never be interested in such a man. As she dismissed his entourage, Ban Heng suddenly appeared, chastising her for her arrogance. Ban Hua, hearing of the exchange later, was highly amused by Rong Xia's failure and insisted he reflect on his approach. Later, Ban Heng brought Xie Wanyu some sweet potatoes.

As she ate, she was overcome with emotion, tears streaming down her face as she declared how sweet they were, leaving Ban Heng flustered. The next day, Miss Sun, captivated by Ban Heng's personality, made a public display outside Ban Hua's residence, her entourage chanting for "Young Master Ban" in exchange for grain. She proclaimed him the most unique man she had ever met and grandly offered her family property as betrothal gifts.

A horrified Ban Heng pleaded with Ban Hua to save him. Ban Hua, in a calculated move, asked Miss Sun how much grain she would offer. Miss Sun promised one warehouse—enough to feed Zhongzhou for a month—and hinted at ten more if she became Ban Hua's sister-in-law. Feigning hesitation, Ban Hua asked for time to consult their parents, to which Miss Sun enthusiastically agreed. Later, Ban Hua teased Ban Heng, calling his potential marriage a "sacrifice for the nation."

He insisted Miss Sun was "horrible," but Ban Hua praised her as rich, brave, and generous. Ban Heng firmly stated he already loved someone else. When Ban Hua pressed him, he finally confessed that Xie Wanyu was his heart's desire and that he would marry no one but her, and she would marry no one but him. Despite his heartfelt declaration, Ban Hua continued to urge him to consider the marriage for the sake of the starving populace.

Episode 35 Recap

To get the grain password, Ban Heng is forced to accompany Miss Sun and engages her in a drinking game. After getting her drunk, she blurts out a phrase of love, which she reveals is the password to the grain store. Ban Heng shouts it aloud, and Du Jiu, positioned on a nearby rooftop, relays it to Ban Hua and Rong Xia, who successfully retrieve the much-needed grain.

As Ban Hua and Rong Xia secure the supplies, they realize they have forgotten Ban Heng. Meanwhile, Miss Sun grows increasingly forward with him. Just as Ban Heng fears for his safety, Xie Wanyu kicks down the door to rescue him, calling him her husband in the heat of the moment.

After they escape, Ban Heng, delighted by the endearment, playfully asks her to say it again while calling her his wife, causing a flustered Xie Wanyu to cover her ears and run away. Later, Ban Heng complains to his sister about the ordeal, but she dismisses his dramatics. Knowing her brother's heart, Ban Hua probes Xie Wanyu about her feelings. Xie Wanyu admits that despite Ban Heng's greedy and flamboyant exterior, she finds him to be kind-hearted and trustworthy.

Afterward, Rong Xia playfully asks Ban Hua if she would have forgotten him too if he had been the one to go. Ban Hua reassures him with a smile, affirming that he is the only one who can touch her and will always be her beloved. Relief spreads through the camp as grain from the capital finally arrives. Ban Hua and Rong Xia oversee its distribution, but Rong Xia senses something is wrong.

His fears are confirmed when refugees who ate the porridge begin to show signs of poisoning. Enraged that Jiang Luo would poison innocent people to eliminate them, Ban Hua vows to march back to the capital and make him pay. The soldiers, furious at the emperor's cruelty, pledge their loyalty to her cause. Upon learning of Ban Hua's plan, a furious Jiang Luo orders the northwest garrison to intercept and kill her and Rong Xia.

Shi Feixian reminds him that the rebellion's stated goal is to restore the Crown Prince, who is currently in the capital. Jiang Luo sends Xie Chongjin to capture him, but they only find a dummy. Shi Jin had already escorted the Crown Prince and Crown Princess out of the palace through a secret door. He chose to stay behind, however, still hoping to convince his sister, Shi Feixian, to abandon Jiang Luo.

Xie Chongjin returns to his family mansion and finds his father, Count Xie, hosting Ban Hua's parents. Seeing Xie Chongjin, Ban Huai explodes with anger, mistakenly believing Count Xie betrayed them. To the Count's horror, Xie Chongjin then orders his men to arrest the couple. When his father protests, Xie Chongjin fiercely retorts that this action is necessary to save the Xie family from being executed for treason.

He blames his father's loyalties for their current danger, leaving the old count devastated. Ban Hua and Rong Xia's forces easily take the city of Jinzhou, where they are welcomed by the populace. Soon after, the Crown Prince and Crown Princess arrive, thanking them for the rescue. When Ban Hua learns Shi Jin stayed behind in the palace, she calls him a fool, knowing Jiang Luo would not spare him. In the palace, Jiang Luo indeed orders Shi Jin's execution.

However, Shi Feixian pleads for her brother's life, arguing not with sentiment, but with strategy. She points out that Shi Jin is a military genius and proposes a devious plan: use Ban Hua's captured parents as leverage to force her to switch sides. An alliance between Ban Hua and Shi Jin, she claims, would crush Rong Xia's rebellion. Intrigued, Jiang Luo agrees to spare Shi Jin. As Ban Hua's army marches on, Jiang Luo sends her a letter.

It reveals that her parents are his prisoners and gives her three days to return to the capital alone, or they will be killed. Ignoring Rong Xia's warnings of a trap, Ban Hua resolves to go. Rong Xia places her under guard, but Ban Heng drugs the guards and offers his sister an escape route. Unwilling to endanger him, Ban Hua knocks her brother unconscious.

Rong Xia intercepts her as she tries to leave, begging her not to go on a suicide mission. Ban Hua insists her parents' lives are her priority and entrusts the fate of the rebellion to him, reminding him that he already lost the throne for her once and must not do so again. Rong Xia declares he has never regretted any choice he made for her.

Torn but resolute, Ban Hua vows to repay her debt to him in the next life and departs. Rong Xia immediately orders Du Jiu to mobilize all their agents in the capital to support her. Zhang Meng and other loyal soldiers insist on accompanying her. Ban Hua details her plan: she will enter the palace to confront Jiang Luo, buying them half an hour to rescue her parents.

Ban Hua enters the palace and faces Jiang Luo, who offers her tea. She coolly dissects the poor quality of two different offerings, subtly mocking him. As Shi Feixian joins them, Jiang Luo reveals his true aim is to capture Ban Hua. As she retorts, she suddenly feels weak and collapses, realizing too late that the incense burning in the room was poisoned.

Episode 36 Recap

Following Ban Hua's collapse from poisoning, Shi Feixian and Jiang Luo celebrated their success. They planned to marry the unconscious Ban Hua to Shi Jin, believing this would demoralize Rong Xia. They also intended to use the wedding as a diversion to capture the Crown Prince. Shi Feixian leveraged the lives of Ban Hua’s parents to force Shi Jin’s compliance, leaving him no choice.

Meanwhile, Ban Huai and his wife attempted to flee the capital with their followers, but imperial soldiers intercepted them at the city gates. The loyal retainers, including Softy, were captured while creating a diversion for Ban Huai and his wife to escape. As planned by Rong Xia, Du Jiu then arrived to escort the couple to the safety of the military camp. Later, as Ban Hua accused Shi Jin of taking advantage of her, Jiang Luo appeared.

Impressed by her spirit, he proposed to grant them a marriage. Ban Hua defiantly claimed that with her parents safe, he had no leverage over her. In response, Jiang Luo had the captured Softy and other retainers brought forward. He threatened their lives, forcing Ban Hua to kneel and agree to the marriage to save them.

Afterward, Shi Jin explained to Ban Hua that their compliance was a ruse to make Jiang Luo overconfident, which would create an opportunity for them to escape. Shi Jin also confessed his long-standing affection for her, recalling how he had admired her spirited and brave nature since he first saw her as a child in the military camp. He wished for her to always remain her unrestrained, unique self.

Moved by his sincerity, Ban Hua agreed to cooperate, though she could not reciprocate his feelings. Jiang Luo, oblivious to their deception, announced the impending marriage, which Rong Xia and Ban Heng initially dismissed as a demoralization tactic. Confident in her scheme, Shi Feixian presented Ban Hua with a shabby wedding dress. Ban Hua requested a better one, and Shi Feixian readily agreed before Ban Hua humbly asked for permission to deliver the wedding invitation to Rong Xia personally.

Believing Ban Hua was powerless and merely seeking closure, a smug Shi Feixian granted the request, eager to see Rong Xia's reaction. As Rong Xia's forces struggled to breach Yujing's defenses, many in his camp began to suspect Shi Jin had truly betrayed them. Just then, Ban Hua and Shi Jin appeared outside the city walls to meet with Rong Xia. They presented him with the wedding invitation, announcing a three-day truce for the ceremony in Yujing.

A disbelieving Rong Xia reminded Ban Hua of their promise to live a simple life together, but Shi Jin interjected, asserting his claim as her fiancé. Rong Xia questioned Shi Jin’s conscience for forcing a marriage with someone who did not love him. Shi Jin retorted that Rong Xia, who claimed to love her, had repeatedly put her in peril.

He declared Rong Xia's engagement to Ban Hua broken and delivered Jiang Luo’s offer: surrender Crown Prince Jiang Zhang, and Jiang Luo would forgive him, restore his family’s honor, and grant him a promotion. Rong Xia vehemently refused. Rong Xia suspected a hidden message but could find nothing in the invitation. His advisors and the Crown Prince worried the wedding was a trap. Rong Xia grew distraught, believing Ban Hua was trying to push him away to save him.

It was Ban Heng who later discovered a secret message in the invitation when he held it to candlelight, revealing Jiang Luo’s true plan: to use the wedding to lure Rong Xia’s forces away and capture the Crown Prince. On the wedding day, a distraught Softy wept for Ban Hua, who tried to comfort him with a joke about her "curse" of failed marriages.

Rong Xia, Ban Heng, and Akeqi arrived at the ceremony, where Shi Feixian greeted Rong Xia with sarcasm. Ban Heng shot back a sharp retort about her altered appearance. As the ceremony began, Jiang Luo dispatched troops to capture the Crown Prince. The plan was for a counter-attack to be signaled when Ban Hua and Shi Jin were to drink the cross-cupped wine.

At that moment, Ban Hua seized Shi Jin and held him hostage, refusing to be forced into the marriage. Shi Feixian and Prime Minister Shi desperately pleaded with Xie Chongjin to save Shi Jin. However, Xie Chongjin, prioritizing his larger scheme, ignored their pleas and ordered his men to forcibly remove them from the scene. Choosing to sacrifice his ally, he turned to face Rong Xia, ready for a confrontation. Rong Xia declared that he had anticipated such a move, having come fully prepared.

Episode 37 Recap

Following his departure from Yujing, Jiang Luo's forces arrived at the gates of Yongzhou, only to discover the city was completely empty. His general reported that they had fallen into a trap. Realizing the deception, Jiang Luo immediately ordered his army to swiftly return to Yujing to counter Rong Xia, Count Cheng'an. Meanwhile, in Yujing, Xie Chongjin was informed of Jiang Luo's failed campaign.

Despite the grim news and pleas from Crown Prince Jiang Zhang's loyalists to abandon the tyrannical Jiang Luo, Xie Chongjin stubbornly refused to surrender. He dismissed their appeals, claiming they underestimated him, and ordered his soldiers to eliminate the "rebels." Amidst the ensuing chaos, Xie Chongjin seized the opportunity to escape. In the army camp, Crown Princess Suyue expressed her concerns to Crown Prince Jiang Zhang about security, noting the presence of prisoners and the unpredictable Xie Wanyu.

Just then, Xie Wanyu appeared and openly declared that she would never return to be Jiang Luo's Empress. She stated her heart belonged solely to Ban Heng and that she wished to marry into the Ban family, which she found far more appealing than royalty. Ban Huai, Ban Heng's father, happened to overhear and readily agreed to the union on his son's behalf, causing a shy Xie Wanyu to run off.

During the chaotic retreat, an official, acting on Xie Chongjin's orders, attempted to assassinate Shi Feixian. However, her grandfather, Shi Chonghai, bravely intercepted the blow, taking the fatal strike himself. As he lay dying, he expressed deep regret for having exiled Shi Feixian and asked for her forgiveness. He urged her to fulfill his dying wish: to become the Empress of Daye and elevate the Shi family to the most prominent in the land.

Though Shi Feixian cradled her grandfather and wept bitterly, she confessed that she had not yet truly forgiven him, adding a poignant complexity to her grief. Now a fugitive, Xie Chongjin was pursued by Prince Akeqi's men, along with Shi Jin and Ban Hua. Shi Jin and Xie Chongjin exchanged heated words, with Shi Jin accusing him of betraying his own sister for a woman who did not love him and foolishly choosing a traitor's path.

Cornered by Ban Hua, Xie Chongjin confessed that he needed to capture her to secure his own survival. He then lured the lone Ban Hua into a trap, where his hidden agents ambushed and captured her with a poisoned dart. On his way back to Yujing, Jiang Luo rendezvoused with Shi Feixian. She informed him of their predicament, including her grandfather's death and the siege of Yujing by Prince Akeqi's forces.

She advised Jiang Luo to return to the capital immediately, assuring him that the cunning Xie Chongjin would find a way to escape. Rong Xia eventually caught up to Xie Chongjin, who was holding Ban Hua hostage. He threatened to kill her if Rong Xia pursued him. Xie Chongjin defended his ambition to rule Daye and restore order, accusing Rong Xia of hypocrisy for poisoning the people's food.

Rong Xia refuted this, clarifying the poison was intended for rebels, not starving civilians. Xie Chongjin then revealed to Ban Hua that the dart that struck her was poisoned, but she fiercely refused his suggestion of an alliance, declaring she would rather die than betray her principles. With Ban Hua's life in his hands, Rong Xia was forced to let Xie Chongjin escape. Once in Yujing, Xie Chongjin imprisoned Ban Hua, whose condition was already deteriorating from the poison.

Shi Jin, gravely concerned for Ban Hua, sought guidance from Crown Prince Jiang Zhang. The Crown Prince admitted his lack of military expertise and deferred to Rong Xia. Prince Akeqi urged the Crown Prince to learn from General Shi Jin, as Rong Xia could not always be by his side. When Rong Xia arrived, he declared their only option was to attack the capital.

Though the Crown Prince expressed reservations due to Ban Hua's captivity, Rong Xia reasoned that she was Jiang Luo's sole bargaining chip and would not be easily sacrificed. As they deliberated, a report arrived confirming Shi Chonghai's death. Later, Shi Feixian confronted Xie Chongjin, accusing him of orchestrating her grandfather's death and her attempted assassination. Xie Chongjin denied the accusations, attributing Shi Chonghai's death to the rebels and dismissing her claims as "persecutory delusions."

He then threatened to expose Shi Jin's cooperation with the rebels if she reported him, reminding her of their pact to either succeed together or be destroyed together. Shortly after, Jiang Luo angrily questioned Xie Chongjin's competence after his repeated failures. Shi Feixian intervened, pleading on Xie Chongjin's behalf. She falsely claimed that Ban Hua and Rong Xia had taken her brother hostage, forcing Xie Chongjin's hand, but praised his bravery in capturing Ban Hua.

Convinced by her plea, Jiang Luo pardoned Xie Chongjin, who in turn promised a strategy to eliminate Ban Hua, Rong Xia, and Crown Prince Jiang Zhang all at once. Elsewhere, Ban Heng forbade a worried Xie Wanyu from risking her life by returning to the palace to help rescue Ban Hua. He reminded her that she only wanted to be with him, not be an empress, and they shared a light-hearted moment solidifying her promise to stay safe.

Meanwhile, Shi Jin and Suyue reflected on the Shi family's tragic downfall. While Suyue lamented their fate, Shi Jin expressed contentment with their current simple, unburdened life. Suyue questioned what he would do about Shi Feixian if they reclaimed the capital, reminding him that their sister's transformation was a result of their grandfather's choices. Xie Wanyu confronted her brother, Xie Chongjin, accusing him of planning to kill Ban Hua and Rong Xia.

He insisted it was their only path to survival. She warned that even if they succeeded, the Xie family would become the emperor's next target. Dismissing her concerns, he told her to go home. Unyielding, Xie Wanyu demanded to see Ban Hua and was horrified to find her in a cell, spitting up dark, poisoned blood.

At the palace, Jiang Luo presented Shi Feixian with an Empress's ceremonial robe, promising to divorce Xie Wanyu and make her Empress if Rong Xia surrendered. He also offered to let her decide Xie Chongjin's fate. As Ban Hua's condition worsened, news of the battle reached Jiang Luo.

His general reported heavy losses and that the Northeast garrison, led by General Song, had defied orders to intervene, citing a secret edict from the late Emperor forbidding their involvement in succession disputes. With Rong Xia and Prince Akeqi's forces at the city gates, a desperate Jiang Luo was reminded of Xie Chongjin's final plan.

He sent a messenger to Rong Xia with an ultimatum: surrender Crown Prince Jiang Zhang by noon the next day, or Ban Hua would be executed. Shi Feixian visited Ban Hua in prison, mocking her predicament. Fueled by resentment, she vented about her lifelong struggle for recognition compared to Ban Hua. To repay a past kindness, however, Shi Feixian offered Ban Hua a final wish. Ban Hua requested her cherished white-fur coat, wishing to wear it one last time.

Though scoffing, Shi Feixian agreed. Xie Chongjin delivered the coat and led Ban Hua to the city wall tower. From below, Rong Xia's forces accused Jiang Luo of usurping the throne, while Jiang Luo's loyalists denounced them as rebels. The chaos was interrupted by the arrival of Crown Prince Jiang Zhang, who asserted his legitimate claim. Xie Chongjin taunted Rong Xia, questioning if he truly valued Ban Hua's life, and posed an agonizing choice: the empire or Ban Hua.

Standing on the tower, Ban Hua reminded Rong Xia of her recurring dream of being shot and killed in that very white-fur coat. As Xie Chongjin began counting down from three, he warned Rong Xia that a master archer had a clear shot, demanding his surrender. Ban Hua shouted for Rong Xia not to give in. The Crown Prince then pleaded with Rong Xia to choose the greater good and not repeat the mistake that allowed Jiang Luo's tyrannical rise. As Xie Chongjin shouted "three," Rong Xia, with a heart-wrenching expression, raised his bow and fired an arrow.

Episode 38 Recap

As the standoff at the city wall reached its climax, Rong Xia fired an arrow at Ban Hua. Xie Chongjin watched, stunned, as he never imagined Rong Xia would kill her with his own hands. Immediately, Rong Xia ordered a full-scale attack on the city. At the city gate, Xie Chongjin was ambushed and wounded by Akeqi and Shi Jin but was rescued by his subordinates.

He rushed back to the main hall to inform Jiang Luo that the city gates had fallen and surrender was their only option. Jiang Luo, enraged, dismissed Xie Chongjin as a useless fool. Shi Feixian, however, saw an opportunity. She suggested that Rong Xia's act of killing Ban Hua would enrage the Ban family’s loyalists.

She proposed inciting Old General Ban's former top commanders, who were defending the capital, to lead the Imperial Guards against Rong Xia under the pretext of revenge. Outside the palace, two senior generals loyal to the late Old General Ban were indeed guarding the gates. One of them, believing Ban Hua to be dead, condemned Rong Xia as a hypocrite. Just then, Ban Hua, miraculously alive, appeared before them holding the Tiger Tally.

She revealed the tally and reminded them of her grandfather's core belief: to fight for the common people and the nation. She urged them to see Jiang Luo for the tyrant he was and questioned if they intended to serve him. Moved by her words, the generals reaffirmed their allegiance to the people and pledged to fight alongside her. With Shi Jin securing the palace entrance, Ban Hua led the soldiers into the main hall.

Inside, Jiang Luo and Shi Feixian were shocked to see Ban Hua alive. A defiant Jiang Luo swore to kill Rong Xia if he dared to enter. Ban Hua confronted Jiang Luo, holding him accountable for the thousands who had starved or been poisoned under his rule and demanding he pay for his crimes.

As Jiang Luo was being escorted away, Shi Feixian realized the truth: Xie Chongjin had betrayed them and was colluding with Rong Xia, using Ban Hua’s feigned death as a ruse. She lamented being just one step away from becoming the Empress of Daye. Ban Hua rebuked her ambition, but Shi Feixian retorted that as empress, she would never be controlled by anyone.

Ban Hua coolly replied that in her eyes, Shi Feixian was already dead, and she was taken into custody. Fleeing the hall, Jiang Luo spotted Xie Chongjin and desperately pleaded for help, offering him the position of Prime Minister in exchange for killing Rong Xia. However, Xie Chongjin revealed the truth of his betrayal, reminding Jiang Luo that he was the one who broke faith first by promising to divorce Xie Wanyu and make Shi Feixian the empress.

Rong Xia watched with dry amusement as Jiang Luo’s "reinforcements" turned on him. Proclaiming himself the true emperor and Jiang Zhang unworthy, Jiang Luo was dragged away and imprisoned in a side palace. Later, Xie Wanyu visited Jiang Luo in his confinement and threw a letter of divorce in his face, leaving him speechless. The Ban family finally returned to their mansion, the turmoil feeling like a distant memory.

Ban Hua noticed a chest wound on Rong Xia and finally realized he was the mysterious man in black from her dreams. Rong Xia playfully listed his old injuries, including one from her horsewhip, joking that she would have to care for him for life. Ban Hua retorted that the emotional pain he caused her was just as severe. They then affectionately discussed their future, including marriage, retiring from court life, and having children.

With legitimate rule restored, Jiang Zhang ascended the throne. In court, Rong Xia confessed to forging the late Emperor’s edict, which enabled Jiang Luo’s usurpation, and requested to be stripped of his titles and exiled as a commoner. He insisted that his mistake led to the suffering of many during the famine and he could not forgive himself. Though many ministers defended him, Jiang Zhang praised Rong Xia’s integrity.

Then, to the astonishment of the entire court, he announced his intention to abdicate and pass the throne to Rong Xia. The ministers erupted in protest, but Jiang Zhang was resolute. Outraged by his irresponsibility, Ban Hua accused him of treating the throne like a game and abandoning his people before storming out. Rong Xia followed, reassuring her he would never break their promise to retreat to a peaceful life together.

The Empress Dowager and Empress Suyue strongly opposed the abdication. The Empress Dowager feared for Jiang Luo’s life if Jiang Zhang stepped down, while Suyue worried about renewed instability in Daye. Jiang Zhang confessed he desired a simpler life with Suyue and questioned whether she loved him or the power of being empress. Suyue insisted she loved him but maintained that the empire needed stability above all.

Meanwhile, Suyue secretly approached Shi Jin, urging him to use the Imperial Guards to force Jiang Zhang to retract his decision and to eliminate Rong Xia, which would allow the Shi family to seize power. However, Shi Jin refused, declaring that after all they had been through, his family was more important than power. In their prison, Jiang Luo frantically promised titles to anyone who would free him, even trying to convince Shi Feixian to trust him one last time.

She coldly pointed out that deposed rulers are never spared. An imperial edict arrived, sentencing them both to lifelong imprisonment. Jiang Luo demanded to see Jiang Zhang, but Rong Xia informed him that the new emperor had authorized him to handle their punishment. Back at the Ban Mansion, the family was overjoyed to find their pomegranate tree had survived and was bearing fruit.

Ban Hua and her parents teased Ban Heng about proposing to Xie Wanyu, but he felt it would be insensitive to do so right after her divorce. Elsewhere, Ban Heng arranged a marriage for his friend Zhou Changxiao on the condition that Zhou help him devise a way to propose to Xie Wanyu.

At the Xie estate, Count Xie was delighted to hear of his daughter's closeness with Ban Heng and offered to propose on her behalf, causing a shy Xie Wanyu to retreat to her room. Finally, the Empress Dowager met with Ban Hua privately. She presented a secret edict from the late Emperor, which named Ban Hua as Princess Changle, a title kept hidden to protect her. The Empress Dowager then asked directly about Rong Xia's intentions for the throne. Ban Hua reassured her that Rong Xia was dedicated to the people and had no desire for the throne himself, finally putting the Empress Dowager's fears to rest.

Episode 39 Recap

Ban Heng, while scaling the walls of the Xie Mansion, was caught off guard when Count Xie, who had been loudly narrating a theatrical story to distract his family, suddenly excused himself due to stomach discomfort. A loud crash from Xie Wanyu's room prompted the frantic Count Xie to rush in, only to discover a disheveled Ban Heng sprawled on his daughter's bed. Enraged, Count Xie demanded an explanation.

Xie Wanyu quickly claimed Ban Heng was there for a marriage proposal. Count Xie scoffed at the idea of a proposal done by climbing walls and peeping, threatening to expel Ban Heng and insisting his father, Ban Huai, should make the formal request. However, Ban Heng asserted his own authority in the matter. He confessed his love to Xie Wanyu, recounting how he was smitten after tasting her scallion oil chicken, a dish that made him forget all other delicacies.

He admitted that he began to think of her whenever he was hungry, missing her day and night. He proposed they be together, promising to eat whatever she made. Though surprised, Xie Wanyu was touched. Ban Heng then presented what he believed was a magical bracelet to seal their bond, only to discover he had been scammed; it was just a bag of flour.

While Count Xie was furious, Xie Wanyu found it endearing, asking how Ban Heng knew of her love for the kitchen. Despite Count Xie's refusal, Xie Wanyu's mother gave her blessing, supporting her daughter's choice. Rong Xia meticulously prepared Ban’s Mansion for the family's return, explaining that new items would be more convenient after their long absence. He expressed a deep attachment to the courtyard, having visited it many times, and emphasized its importance as Ban Hua's home.

Ban Hua, relieved to be back, declared they were finally home and would never be separated again. Under a pomegranate tree, Rong Xia envisioned a future where they would walk and chat leisurely while watching their children grow, promising to pick pomegranates for her grandmother. Ban Hua vowed to be by his side for life, enjoying happy days no matter the challenges. Later that night, Emperor Jiang Zhang visited Ban’s Mansion, urging Rong Xia to reconsider abdicating the throne.

Jiang Zhang confessed his deep-seated fear that he lacked the ability to govern, preferring simple pursuits like cultivating plants over statecraft and fearing he would fail the people of Daye. Rong Xia gently reminded him that a ruler's inaction could be as disastrous as wrongdoing. Jiang Zhang clarified his fear was not the burden of his duties, but of "feeling guilty before the whole world." He gave Rong Xia until morning court to decide.

The next day, Rong Xia sent only a letter, confirming he would not accept the throne. The Emperor, feeling the weight of his responsibilities, acknowledged his discomfort in a role he felt a more capable person should fill. Privately, Suyue warned Emperor Jiang Zhang that his trust in Rong Xia was akin to "raising a tiger."

She recounted how Rong Xia’s actions led to the downfall of the Shi family, the death of her grandfather, and the imprisonment of Shi Feixian and Jiang Luo. She argued that if Rong Xia accepted the throne, he would be scorned by the people, and if he refused, he would be seen as abandoning them. Suyue proposed a solution: bestow upon Rong Xia an undeniable favor by arranging his marriage to Ban Hua in the sacred Moon Palace.

This would bind him to the court out of gratitude, and once Daye was stable, they could be granted a life of solitude. During morning court, Emperor Jiang Zhang reinstated Ban Huai as Marquis Jingting and appointed Shi Jin as National General. Most significantly, he named Rong Xia the Right Prime Minister and decreed that he and Princess Changle (Ban Hua) would marry in the Moon Palace with national rites.

When some officials objected to an outsider receiving such an honor, and Rong Xia tried to decline, Ban Hua interrupted. She declared she would only marry Rong Xia if he met her conditions: he must provide the finest wedding procession, always defend her, buy her any beautiful things she desires, and love only her. Furthermore, in times of peace, he must travel with her, and in times of war, he must be her military advisor.

To the court's surprise, Rong Xia readily accepted every term. At Ban’s Mansion, Ban Huai and Ban Heng plotted a series of gate-crashing challenges for the groom. To their surprise, Rong Xia arrived two hours early. The first challenge was a declaration of love. After his classical poetry was deemed too complex, Rong Xia spoke from the heart: "Hua, I’ve read many books, but none are as good as you.

Since the day I met you, every step I’ve taken was to walk into your heart. I love you." Ban Hua, having just arrived, overheard his confession and delightedly demanded he repeat it daily. For the second challenge, an arm-wrestling match against the formidable Softy, Du Jiu cleverly whispered "I like you" in Softy's ear, causing the distracted guard to lose. The third challenge was a one-coin entrance fee.

Ban Heng tried to help by tossing a coin from inside, but Ban Huai, labeling him a spy, promptly ejected him from the house. As the standoff continued, Count Xie arrived. With time running out and Ban Huai refusing entry, Rong Xia declared he would break down the gate. Count Xie, gleefully admitting he had long wanted to tear down the Ban family's gate, enthusiastically joined in.

They successfully rammed the gate open, and Rong Xia tumbled to the ground at Ban Hua's feet. Looking up at her, Ban Hua had a flash of recognition, realizing he was the husband from her dreams. Meanwhile, Suyue intercepted Princess Anle, attempting to turn her against Rong Xia. She painted him as a vengeful man who was responsible for the former emperor's death and Jiang Luo’s downfall, warning that his rising power threatened the Jiang family.

She assured Anle that if she acted, only Rong Xia would be the target, leaving the Ban family unharmed. Anle appeared to consider her words. Inside, Rong Xia and Ban Hua served tea to her parents. Ban Hua’s mother tearfully asked Rong Xia to be patient with her daughter's spirited nature, and he promised to cherish her always.

Seeing the family's emotional farewell, Rong Xia broke with tradition and invited everyone to accompany them to the Moon Palace, insisting that as one family, they should travel together. The wedding procession thus became a lively carriage filled with family, with Ban Huai and Count Xie continuing their playful bickering. At the majestic Moon Palace, an imperial edict was read, celebrating the union.

Ban Hua playfully questioned the edict's flattering description of her, but Rong Xia passionately affirmed that in his heart, she was more wonderful than any words could describe. After they accepted the ceremonial scrolls, Ban Hua stumbled in her heavy wedding attire, but Rong Xia caught her, reassuring her that he would always be there to shield her from any trouble. With the auspicious moment at hand, they prepared to enter the palace, where the Emperor and Empress awaited to complete the ceremony.

Episode 40 (Ending) Recap

At the auspicious time, Ban Hua and Rong Xia completed their wedding ceremony in the Moon Palace. Shi Jin watched with a smile, glad that Ban Hua had found happiness. After the couple shared the cross-cupped wine, the Empress, Suyue, remarked to the Emperor how Ban Hua’s rouge had colored Rong Xia’s lips. With the ceremony concluded, Ban Hua proceeded to the bridal chamber. The Emperor then called for a banquet, during which Princess Anle quietly excused herself.

Shi Jin also left the hall to order intensified patrols, noticing the uneven steps of a palace servant delivering dishes. At the banquet, a heavily intoxicated Count Xie and Ban Huai argued boisterously before being helped away by their sons. As Rong Xia stood to accept a toast from the Emperor, he suddenly collapsed, having been poisoned.

Princess Anle urgently found Ban Hua, revealing that the Empress had plotted to harm Rong Xia and urged Ban Hua to flee for her own safety. Refusing to abandon Rong Xia, Ban Hua grabbed a sword and returned to the main hall. There, under the Empress's instructions, the Imperial Doctor misled everyone, suggesting Rong Xia was poisoned by the cross-cupped wine, which had been tainted by Ban Hua’s rouge.

Court officials immediately speculated that Ban Hua had poisoned her new husband because his refusal of the throne prevented her from becoming Empress. They demanded the Ban family be summoned for questioning and that Ban Hua be examined for poison to prove her guilt or innocence. Suyue had the Emperor forcibly escorted to his bedchamber and then ordered the Imperial Guards to apprehend Ban Hua. While attention was diverted, Du Jiu quietly moved the supposedly poisoned Rong Xia to safety.

Meanwhile, assassins disguised as palace staff delivered poisoned food to the Ban family's estate under the guise of an imperial edict, but the family grew suspicious and subdued them. Shi Jin confronted Suyue, pleading with her to stop, but she had embraced the same ruthless ambition as her late sister, Shi Feixian. Suyue then led the court officials to the Empress Dowager, seeking her authority to resolve the crisis.

Having sobered up, Ban Huai rushed to the palace to defend his daughter, joined by Count Xie, who stood ready to fight alongside him. The Empress Dowager ordered the Imperial Guards to arrest the Ban family. Just then, Rong Xia and the Emperor appeared, both completely unharmed, leading their own contingent of guards. It was revealed that the entire incident was Suyue's scheme to poison Rong Xia, frame Ban Hua, and destroy the Ban family.

However, Rong Xia had learned of her plot in advance and worked with the Emperor to turn the tables on the conspirators. The Emperor ordered the guilty parties to be taken to the Court of Judicial Review for judgment. Upset by Rong Xia's deception, Ban Hua stormed off. Shi Jin escorted Suyue away, lamenting that she had become just like her sister, willing to do anything for power.

Rong Xia followed an angry Ban Hua to the bridal chamber and apologized for deceiving her. Though Ban Hua was stubborn, Rong Xia knew her heart and, after a tense but tender exchange, pulled her into his arms and carried her to the bed. The red curtains fell, signifying the lovers’ union at last.

In the time that followed, Du Jiu and Softy married and had a child, while Xie Wanyu also became pregnant, with both women going into labor on the same day. Ban Huai and Yin Shi retired from the capital's luxuries to live a simple life in the countryside, where Akeqi fell for Rocky and persistently tried to convince her to return to the prairie with him. The struggle for power had driven Jiang Luo to insanity.

Princess Anle found peace in a nunnery, where Ban Hua sent her favorite flower tea every year on her birthday. Shi Jin remained a solitary general; when a young female soldier asked him to teach her the Ban family's spear techniques, he demonstrated the moves, recalling the day Ban Hua first taught them to him. Ban Hua also finally understood the source of her prophetic dreams.

While her visions may have been a blessing for saving a holy man during a temple fire, she realized the more profound truth: she was the one who controlled her own destiny and forged her own extraordinary life. As winter arrived, Ban Hua and Rong Xia stood together beneath a tree adorned with red prayer ribbons. He asked what she had wished for when they first stood there.

She confessed her wish had been for him: for Rong Xia to live a life of happiness and find his true love. As the first snow began to fall, they embraced, a perfect portrait of a talented scholar and a beautiful lady. Having endured countless challenges, they were finally ready to spend the rest of their lives together.