Catch Up My Prince Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Catch Up My Prince Synopsis
Lu Ranran, a medic, has coincidentally entered a game world called "Xinming".
In order to return to reality, Lu Ranran undergoes a series of trials and tribulations. Not only does she succeed in studying medicine with her teacher, but she also befriends the fourth prince Zhao Chenyi.
After a series of trials and tribulations, they fall in love with each other.
Lu Ranran learns that Zhao Chenyi is the game designer Wang Chenyi, who has lost consciousness.
In order to wake him up and bring him back to the real world, Lu Ranran enters the game again to overcome the epidemic, benefiting the people.
In the end, she succeeds in bringing her lover and her friend out of the virtual game world, thus strengthening her ambition to become a good TCM doctor. She chooses to continue her studies and continue her beautiful love with Wang Chenyi in reality.
Catch Up My Prince Recap
Episode 1 Recap
New player Lu Ranran, a clinical intern and game enthusiast, dons her VR glasses and officially enters the immersive game world, finding it incredibly realistic. Upon her arrival, she witnesses two masked men engaged in a fierce duel on a rooftop. Before she can fully react, a white-clad man pushes her out of harm's way, sustaining serious injuries himself. Moments later, Lu Ranran stumbles into a room, knocking over another man who was secretly examining an account book.
The white-clad man then falls unconscious. The game's connection seems to be broken, and the black-clad man, identified as Xu Lang, the Grand Secretary of Xin Ming, states contemptuously that Lu Ranran cannot stop him. Lu Ranran wakes up in an unfamiliar place with a painful burn on her hand, wondering why she feels pain despite being in a game.
Qin Shou, the game assistant, appears and explains that the game's brain-linking system accurately transmits all five senses, including pain, to ensure a realistic experience. Lu Ranran demands to know why Qin Shou didn't help her when she was almost killed and burned last night. Qin Shou apologizes, informing her that a system bug prevents her from exiting the game for now.
She is frustrated, pointing out that an entire game night only amounts to a minute or two in the real world, and she wants to return to work. Qin Shou insists she cannot exit and, as compensation for her poor experience, offers a new player bonus, including medicine, coins, new clothes, two save opportunities, and a free renaming card.
When Lu Ranran jokingly suggests the name "Passerby A," the system immediately registers it, much to her dismay, as the renaming card is a one-time use item. Qin Shou then reveals her first mission: to find a suitable romantic interest and achieve a romantic ending to exit the game. Soon after, Lu Ranran encounters a palace maid named Yun Zhu, who strikingly resembles her real-life friend, Xiao Yun.
She tries to communicate with Yun Zhu as if she were her friend, but Yun Zhu doesn't recognize her, prompting Lu Ranran to call out Qin Shou. Qin Shou clarifies that Lu Ranran is the only online player, and Yun Zhu is merely an NPC. Meanwhile, Fourth Prince Zhao Chen Yi awakens to find himself surrounded by women, whom he promptly dismisses. His attendant, Xiao Bao, finds his behavior odd, as Zhao Chen Yi previously enjoyed female company.
Zhao Chen Yi glances at books containing women's portraits, now finding them distasteful. Lu Ranran and Yun Zhu begin their daily laundry duties at the Clothing Department. They are already late, and other palace maids gossip about Fourth Prince's reputation as a capricious womanizer. Realizing the arduous nature of her maid tasks, Lu Ranran decides to prioritize her main mission. She leaves Yun Zhu to handle the remaining laundry, intent on finding her "peach blossom."
She soon spots Zhao Chen Yi at the Lake Heart Pavilion, where court musicians are performing. When he dismisses the music, Lu Ranran seizes the opportunity. She deliberately bumps into him. Zhao Chen Yi recognizes her as the girl from the Profound Literature Pavilion fire. Lu Ranran apologizes, claiming her humble upbringing, and offers to tell him a story as thanks for saving her. Zhao Chen Yi agrees, warning her of a twenty-smack punishment if the story is bad.
Qin Shou presents her with bizarre story options, including "Snow White," "Calabash Brothers," and "Inception." Lu Ranran chooses "Inception," weaving a tale about a Western practitioner and a secret book named "Inception," concluding with a spinning top that never stops, signifying a dream from which the practitioner may never awaken. Zhao Chen Yi finds the story captivating and accepts her "repayment." Later, Lu Ranran complains to Qin Shou about the game's absurd story options and the unresolved system bug.
Qin Shou reiterates that the bug's unknown nature prevents an accurate repair time and advises her to complete the game missions to exit. He warns that if her save chances run out, any in-game death will cause irreversible damage to her real-life body, potentially leading to a vegetative state or permanent death. Before she can respond, she is suddenly knocked out and abducted by Xu Lang's subordinates. She is accused of setting the fire at Profound Literature Pavilion.
When she denies it, a subordinate fatally stabs her. Qin Shou grants her one last revival chance. Seizing it, Lu Ranran claims responsibility for the fire, and then, remembering her earlier encounter with the Green Lotus secret guard, blurts out "Green Lotus reappears!" Xu Lang's subordinate responds with "Almighty power," confirming her affiliation.
Recognizing her as a skilled Green Lotus Sect elite who successfully approached the Fourth Prince, Xu Lang proposes she go undercover for him, which Lu Ranran reluctantly accepts to survive. The next day, Mother Su, her supervisor, berates Lu Ranran for missing work the previous night. As punishment, she orders Lu Ranran to run laps throughout the entire Imperial City. Exhausted, Lu Ranran collapses. Crown Prince Zhao Chenxing notices her.
Upon learning about her punishment and how she has been running since morning without rest, he instructs his attendant to bring her pastries and tea and tell her to stop running. Meanwhile, Zhao Chen Yi, still pondering Lu Ranran's story about "Inception," realizes that she was punished because she was with him. Feeling a sense of responsibility, he sends pastries to her via Xiao Bao, stating it's a reward for her storytelling.
Later, Lu Ranran sits dejectedly by the Lake Heart Pavilion, lamenting her predicament and wishing she could go home. She spots Zhao Chen Yi approaching and attempts to stage a "hero saving the beauty" moment by pretending to drown. Zhao Chen Yi, however, calmly informs her that the lake is only a foot deep. Lu Ranran, frustrated, cries about being trapped.
Zhao Chen Yi questions her frequent appearances during significant events, such as the fire at Profound Literature Pavilion, his performance at the Lake Heart Pavilion, and now waiting for him. Lu Ranran, after a moment, confesses her true motive: she wants him to like her. Zhao Chen Yi is momentarily taken aback by her boldness but then suggests that her talent is wasted in laundry and he will consider how to compensate her for her punishment.
Back in her living quarters, Lu Ranran shares the pastries from Zhao Chen Yi with Yun Zhu, appreciating his gesture but still frustrated by her arduous tasks and the unfair game settings. Qin Shou then sends her a notification, requiring age confirmation before revealing a new main quest and daily livestream benefits.
Episode 2 Recap
Lu Ranran received a daily reward in the game, unlocking access to a livestream after confirming her age. To her embarrassment, the livestream showed Zhao Chen Yi bathing, and she quickly closed it. The system informed her it could only be viewed once a day. Meanwhile, Xiao Bao delivered "pornographic pictures" to Zhao Chen Yi, who was still bathing. Annoyed, Zhao Chen Yi threw the books into the water and instructed Xiao Bao to discard them.
Lu Ranran noticed Yun Zhu struggling with laundry due to injured feet and offered her help, advising her to take care of her hands. Yun Zhu explained that palace maids were used to rough work. Lu Ranran passionately stated that workers should prioritize self-care. Zhao Chen Yi appeared during this exchange, and the other maids fell silent. He confronted Lu Ranran about her "coarse clothing and bad food" comment and questioned if she was unsatisfied with his previous rewards.
When she asked if he was mocking her, he said he enjoyed listening to her stories. Although tired from running the previous night, Lu Ranran relented after Zhao Chen Yi reminded her about repaying her debt for saving her life. He dismissed the other maids and carried Lu Ranran away, prompting her to internally resolve to actively pursue him to complete her game mission.
Lu Ranran told Zhao Chen Yi a story about a girl whose soul was imbued into a Go board and later helped a young player become successful, promising to continue the story "next time." Zhao Chen Yi teased her, asking if she was eager to see him, and offered to send her snacks daily. Seeking more access, Lu Ranran suggested telling stories in his palace and sharing the food there.
He agreed, making her his exclusive laundry maid, and tasked her with telling stories at any time, adding that she could not leave without his permission. Lu Ranran recognized that her efforts were part of her plan to win him over. Zhao Chen Yi then jokingly claimed she owed him a "new debt" for breaking his white porcelain teapot and demanded more stories as compensation.
Xiao Bao reported on his investigation into Lu Ranran, confirming she was from Chong Chuan with living family and a farmer brother, describing her background as clean and her close relationship with Yun Zhu. Zhao Chen Yi approved of Yun Zhu's clean background and soft personality. Xiao Bao reported that the fire at Profound Literature Pavilion was accidental and not related to Lu Ranran or the Crown Prince, Zhao Chen Xing.
Zhao Chen Yi offered Xiao Bao a painting as a reward, but Xiao Bao declined, remembering Zhao Chen Yi's "embarrassing pictures." Instead, Zhao Chen Yi allowed him to choose treats from the Calm Refreshing Manor, amused by Xiao Bao's surprise at his elegance. Over the next few months, Lu Ranran continued telling Zhao Chen Yi stories. One day, he directly asked her about her motives, to which she confessed she wanted him to like her.
She tried to tell a "pickup line," but then changed her answer, joking that her superpower was being "super, super. . . like to eat." Zhao Chen Yi finished her sentence, saying, ". . . like you," causing her to blush. Yun Zhu mentioned gossip about Zhao Chen Yi simply indulging in her novelty after previously favoring song girls, leading Lu Ranran to question if she truly understood him.
While waiting for Zhao Chen Yi by the river, Lu Ranran overheard other palace maids, including Lu Ren Jia, mocking her for being dumped by Zhao Chen Yi, whom they nicknamed "Sugarcane the Fourth." Angered, Lu Ranran splashed water, then saw Zhao Chen Yi's reflection and splashed at it, leading to the real Zhao Chen Yi appearing behind her. He explained he had been away on an errand and had come to find her upon his return.
While Lu Ranran and Zhao Chen Yi were discussing gardenias in the garden, the Empress and Second Prince Zhao Chenyao arrived. Lu Ranran realized Zhao Chenyao was the second character she could pursue, appearing three months into the game. The Empress urged Zhao Chenyao to dine with the Emperor and advised Zhao Chen Yi to cherish his reputation, implying disapproval of his lifestyle. Lu Ranran privately noted the Empress's demeanor and sympathized with Zhao Chen Yi's situation.
That evening, Zhao Chen Yi had prepared a lavish dinner. He described their relationship as "an ordinary pair of boy and girl, ordinarily drinking and chatting happily," which thrilled Lu Ranran. Zhao Chen Yi then took her to the rooftop to see the stars, using his qinggong to get them there. As they watched the stars, Zhao Chen Yi reflected that everyone needs to shine to be seen but that he hoped he would "not" be seen.
He then thanked her for spending his birthday with him. Lu Ranran later watched a livestream showing Xiao Bao presenting Zhao Chen Yi with birthday gifts from noblewomen and a "Miss Xin'er," making her jealous. Yun Zhu told Lu Ranran about Zhao Chen Yi's humble maternal lineage, his early loss of his mother, and his difficult childhood. His talents in calligraphy and painting were discovered by Lord Yu, which gained him the Emperor's favor.
After the Yu family's downfall, Zhao Chen Yi withdrew from politics, becoming an Associate in the Ministry of Rites to pursue a life of pleasure and romance. This information led Lu Ranran to realize she truly didn't understand him. Lu Ranran used a game item to borrow the kitchen from Lu Ren Jia and prepared egg omelet rice called "Seeing the Sun Behind Clouds," which she presented to Zhao Chen Yi with birthday wishes.
He found the dish delicious and jokingly asked if she would cook for him daily and proposed, "Why don't you marry into my manor and cook for me every day?" Back in her quarters, Lu Ranran secretly watched Zhao Chen Yi practicing calligraphy. A palace maid announced Xin'er's arrival, causing jealousy in Lu Ranran. Xin'er complimented Zhao Chen Yi's calligraphy, and they discussed his plans to claim his domain in Calm Refreshing Manor the following year.
Xin'er pledged to follow him, surprising Lu Ranran. Xin'er reiterated her family's desire for revenge, which Zhao Chen Yi had promised to deliver. He urged her not to be consumed by hatred and to live her own life. Xin'er expressed concern about her younger brother, Xiao Kang, who was in hiding, and voiced her suspicion about Lu Ranran's presence at the Profound Literature Pavilion fire.
Zhao Chen Yi dismissed these worries and subtly noted Xin'er's own "special relationship" with a palace maid. He then told Xin'er to visit less often and be more discreet. Feeling that she must avenge her family, Xin'er left. Sleepless and jealous, Lu Ranran insulted Zhao Chen Yi, calling him a "fickle radish" (Sugarcane the Fourth) and a "pig." The next day, Lu Ranran feigned a severe cold to avoid telling stories to Zhao Chen Yi.
Zhao Chen Yi, realizing her deception, instructed Xiao Bao to tell her to draw new stories every day since she couldn't speak. He then had Xiao Bao deliver a potent, bitter medicinal soup, made from the three most bitter herbs and mugwort, provided daily until her "recovery," effectively turning her feigned illness into a real torment.
Episode 3 Recap
During a performance at the Entertainment Education Department, Zhao Chen Yi noticed that one of the dancing palace maids possessed martial arts skills, recognizing her unusual gait. He challenged her, exposing her as a member of the Green Lotus Sect after seeing the signal on her hand. The two fought. Meanwhile, Xu Lang was ambushed by a group of black-clad assailants, one of whom was Xin'er. She was forced to retreat when Xu Lang's subordinates arrived.
Xu Lang recognized the attacker's Rainbow Fish Sword Technique and concluded that she was a descendant of the Yu family. His subordinate injured the assassin's hand during the fight. Xin'er later spoke with someone, mentioning that the Green Lotus Sect was monitoring the Cherished Orders Palace and that the Ministry of Rites reported that the Fourth Prince had left his territory.
Xin'er planned to use this as an opportunity to accuse the Fourth Prince of harboring criminals and plotting against the state. Lu Ranran was tasked with illustrating a story due to her claim of being unable to speak, a task Zhao Chen Yi assigned as a form of "punishment." Despite the poor quality of her artwork, Zhao Chen Yi found the story amusing.
The story was about Young Master Duan and the three girls he met, only to discover they were all his half-sisters. Yun Zhu told Lu Ranran about an upcoming talent assessment and the possibility of being dismissed (or even beheaded) if she failed, because the Astronomy Bureau reported that the palace contained a reincarnation of a jinx who would disrupt the harem and harm the Crown Prince. The Empress Dowager ordered the person found and eliminated.
Worried about the impending talent assessment, especially her poor needlework skills, Lu Ranran sought help from Zhao Chen Yi, offering to reveal the story's alternative ending in exchange for his help in passing the assessment. She knew he was one of the examiners. Zhao Chen Yi started teaching her painting, but due to her lack of talent, he switched to calligraphy.
During a lesson, Lu Ranran accidentally spilled ink on Zhao Chen Yi's clothes, prompting him to remove his outer garment and ask her to have it washed. Later, Zhao Chen Yi skillfully turned the ink stain into a gardenia painting. Lu Ranran saw Zhao Chen Yi with Xin'er and quietly left, feeling disappointed. Zhao Chen Yi later found Lu Ranran looking upset and invited her on a boat ride that evening to cheer her up.
While rowing, Lu Ranran nearly lost her balance, but Zhao Chen Yi caught her. He then asked about the story's true ending. Lu Ranran revealed that Young Master Duan was a product of his mother's revenge against his father, so he was not biologically related to the three girls. Miss Wang was in love with her cousin, who had gone insane trying to restore his country.
Young Master Duan eventually returned to Yunnan, taking Miss Zhong and Miss Mu as concubines, which Lu Ranran still considered a sad ending. On the day of the talent assessment, Zhao Chen Yi noticed Xin'er suspiciously surveying the surroundings. The Crown Prince, Zhao Chen Xuan, unexpectedly arrived. As he approached, a screen suddenly fell, endangering him, but Zhao Chen Yi and Xu Lang quickly pulled him to safety.
Xu Lang sent his subordinate, Xiao Bao, to follow Xin'er, having recognized the hand injury on the assassin from their earlier encounter. During Lu Ranran's turn, she chose "Anatomy" from a selection of unexpected options. She then meticulously carved a roasted duck, separating the meat, tendons, and bones without damaging the edible parts, impressing the judges. Doctor Li, one of the judges, recognized her precise knowledge of meridians and organs, suggesting she had studied "Cunzhentu" (Anatomy).
Lu Ranran was happy but noticed Zhao Chen Yi wasn't there. Later, Zhao Chen Yi confronted Xin'er, asking if she knew what she did wrong. Xin'er claimed not to know, and Zhao Chen Yi told her not to risk herself for revenge and that the Yu family's feud had nothing to do with the Crown Prince. Xin'er accused him of changing, but Zhao Chen Yi said he cared about her safety.
That evening, Lu Ranran was disappointed by Zhao Chen Yi's absence during her success and realized her feelings for him were growing. Yun Zhu brought her a coat and mentioned that the Eleventh Prince, Zhao Chen Yao, had come looking for her. Lu Ranran, feeling sad, wanted to be alone, feeling like she had planted a seed that would never grow.
Episode 4 Recap
Feeling disheartened by Zhao Chen Yi's coldness, Lu Ranran decided not to watch his livestream. Instead, she tuned into Crown Prince Zhao Chen Yu's channel and recognized him as the person who had saved her previously. Noticing his illness, Lu Ranran, a medical intern in her reality, wondered if she could help him. She summoned Qin Shou, who appeared with his usual flair.
Lu Ranran asked how she could assist the Crown Prince, and Qin Shou informed her that she needed to complete the main story tasks and participate in the Wazi Diplomatic Corps martial arts match to collect "affection fragments." Frustrated, Lu Ranran then confronted Qin Shou about Zhao Chen Yi's favorable impression score remaining at zero despite her efforts for half a year, lamenting his seemingly "stone heart."
Qin Shou insisted their programming was flawless and advised her that persistence would lead to victory. Still vexed, Lu Ranran accidentally bumped into Eleventh Prince Zhao Chenxuan. He immediately recognized her as the palace maid with exceptional knife skills who had dissected the duck, praising her technique as comparable to a legendary figure. Zhao Chenxuan, who had been trying to find her, excitedly invited her to his residence.
There, he offered her a precious flint as a gift for their meeting, much to Lu Ranran's surprise as her favorable impression score with him instantly increased. Zhao Chenxuan showed her his various inventions, including a retractable lantern, but Lu Ranran cautioned him about the potential fire hazard of keeping candles near his experimental items.
While discussing the cumbersome nature of traditional brushes, Zhao Chenxuan expressed his long-held desire to invent an automatic ink-absorbing brush, and Lu Ranran suggested they brainstorm together. Zhao Chenxuan then confided in Lu Ranran about his recent problem with repelling insects in the Imperial Garden, listing his unsuccessful attempts with herbs, flowers, and even honey, and mentioning his idea of using Siberian weasel urine. He explained his concern was for the upcoming Wazi Diplomatic Corps visit.
Feeling useless compared to his capable brothers—the Crown Prince skilled in ruling, the Second Prince unmatched in martial arts, and the Fourth Prince talented in music and writing—Zhao Chenxuan expressed his desire to ease his father's burden. Lu Ranran reassured him, praising his modesty, cleverness, and resourcefulness. Touched by her words, Zhao Chenxuan asked her to call him "Eleven" when they were alone.
As Lu Ranran walked past the familiar lotus pavilion, she found herself reminiscing about the time she spent there with Zhao Chen Yi, recalling their boat ride and his calligraphy lessons. Later that evening, a subordinate of Xu Lang, identified as Official Bin, approached Lu Ranran.
He commended her dedication to getting close to the Fourth Prince and tasked her with finding a woman in Cherished Orders Palace who was skilled in martial arts and had a scar on her hand. He provided her with a whistle to signal them once she found the person. Back in her room, Yun Zhu mentioned the Wazi Diplomatic Corps preparations and noted Lu Ranran's recent preoccupation, suggesting it might be related to Zhao Chen Yi.
Yun Zhu advised Lu Ranran to apologize to Zhao Chen Yi, explaining that he, as a proud nobleman, was likely disappointed that she hadn't appreciated his efforts in teaching her calligraphy. Later, watching Zhao Chen Yi's livestream, Lu Ranran observed him diligently writing military tactics with a brush that seemed difficult to use. Inspired, she decided to create an ink-storing brush for him.
The next day, Lu Ranran presented the newly invented ink-storing brush to Zhao Chenxuan, explaining how it could store ink and eliminate the need for constant dipping. Zhao Chenxuan was thrilled and immediately wanted to make more for his family. Lu Ranran then discreetly inquired about Crown Prince Zhao Chen Yu's illness.
Zhao Chenxuan revealed that Zhao Chen Yu was born under difficult circumstances in the Cold Palace and suffered from cardiovascular problems, which Lu Ranran deduced was congenital heart disease. He also mentioned an Imperial Advisor's prophecy that the Crown Prince was missing a soul and needed a "fated person" to protect his life. Lu Ranran dismissed it as superstition, emphasizing that they control their own destiny, and encouraged Zhao Chenxuan to continue pursuing his inventions.
He eagerly agreed to continue creating with her. Lu Ranran then told Zhao Chenxuan her solution for insect repellent: sulfur, which could be used to make sulfur soap, noting its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Zhao Chenxuan realized sulfur was usually restricted to the military arsenal but could be obtained from the Ministry of Rites for fireworks for the diplomatic corps.
Meanwhile, Xu Lang's subordinate, Ah Wen, reported to Xu Lang that Lu Ranran, while seemingly "slow," was successfully close to the Fourth Prince. He also informed Xu Lang of Zhao Chenxuan's interest in sulfur, which Xu Lang saw as an opportunity for his scheme. Ah Wen later met with Lu Ranran, explicitly ordering her to create an explosion using sulfur to injure Zhao Chenxuan and frame Zhao Chen Yi. Lu Ranran was torn.
Shortly after, Zhao Chenxuan excitedly arrived, having managed to obtain some raw sulfur. They went to the Clean and Pure Palace to prepare the sulfur soap. As they mixed the ingredients, Ah Wen, covertly adding more material, encouraged Zhao Chenxuan to add even more of the volatile substance, which Zhao Chenxuan, unaware, threw into the fire.
Remembering Ah Wen's instructions to injure Zhao Chenxuan and frame Zhao Chen Yi, Lu Ranran quickly pulled Zhao Chenxuan away just moments before the mixture exploded. She sustained injuries and was taken away by Imperial Guards. Zhao Chenxuan's aide quickly informed Zhao Chen Yi of the explosion and Lu Ranran's arrest. Zhao Chen Yi, realizing the sulfur was the cause, rushed to the Emperor and Empress Dowager.
He confessed to being responsible for obtaining the sulfur from the Ministry of Rites, claiming it was for Zhao Chenxuan, who shared his youthful passion for inventions. The Emperor, though annoyed with Zhao Chen Yi for involving his younger brother, released Lu Ranran due to Zhao Chen Yi's confession. Later, Lu Ranran confronted Ah Wen, falsely accusing him of adding too much sulfur and exaggerating the danger to Zhao Chenxuan, threatening to expose him to Lord Xu.
Ah Wen, though skeptical, was left speechless. That night, Qin Shou appeared to Lu Ranran, congratulating her on unlocking a new subplot: the Wazi Diplomatic Corps Martial Arts Competition. Her new mission was to collect "four lucky deer" from the four princes, but Qin Shou refused to provide more hints. The next day, Lu Ranran visited Zhao Chenxuan, who apologized for her injury and applied medicinal ointment to her wound, affirming his role as a man to protect her.
He then showed her his latest inventions, and Lu Ranran spotted a "lucky deer" design on one of his lanterns. She asked for it, and Zhao Chenxuan happily gave it to her. Finally, Lu Ranran took the ink-storing brush to Zhao Chen Yi, intending to apologize and reconcile. Zhao Chen Yi, still appearing stern, questioned if she had been "playing around" with Eleven to make the brush. Lu Ranran defended her work, stating it was invention.
She then grew frustrated, pointing out his pettiness for remaining angry about her calligraphy during the assessment and accusing him of ignoring her for days. Upon seeing a painting in his study depicting a woman, she flared up, suggesting he had been in the company of many women. Zhao Chen Yi tried to explain it was an imperial gift, but Lu Ranran, upset by their escalating argument, abruptly left, regretting her stubbornness as she had come to apologize.
Zhao Chen Yi's subordinate, Xiao Bao, wondered why Lu Ranran was angry when Zhao Chen Yi was the one who had taken the blame for the sulfur explosion, saving her from possible execution. Zhao Chen Yi then pondered if Lu Ranran had made the special brush specifically for him.
Episode 5 Recap
Lu Ranran continued her quest to gather clues, focusing on the princes. While Yun Zhu tidied Crown Prince Zhao Chenxing's clothes, Lu Ranran had an inner thought about the location of the auspicious deer patterns for the princes: Little Eleven's was on a light, Zhao Chen Yi's on a paperweight, and the Crown Prince's might be in his clothing. Feigning helpfulness, Lu Ranran convinced Yun Zhu to rest, allowing her to search the Crown Prince's garments undisturbed.
She successfully located the pattern on a pair of socks. With Crown Prince Zhao Chenxing's clue secured, Lu Ranran then set her sights on the Second Prince, Zhao Chenyao, suspecting his clue would also be on his person. Later, Lu Ranran found herself in Zhao Chenyao's room, claiming to be from the Clothing Department delivering clothes. Zhao Chenyao promptly told her she was in the wrong room and ordered her to leave.
Determined to find the clue, Lu Ranran deliberately spilled tea on Zhao Chenyao's clothes, feigning a heat stroke and a headache to explain her clumsiness. As she moved to "wipe" his wet shoes, she noticed the auspicious deer design on them. Her task was complete, but Zhao Chenyao, angered by her actions, made her clean up the entire mess and rewash all his clothes. Lu Ranran internally lamented the extra work despite achieving her goal.
That evening, as Lu Ranran was leaving, she stumbled upon Xiao Shun Zi, a subordinate of Zhao Chenyao, sitting sadly under a tree with an injury. She recognized him as a servant from Exemplary Palace, Zhao Chenyao's residence, and realized he was likely suffering from a punishment. Lu Ranran offered him some Sanqi Powder she happened to have, explaining its medicinal properties for external wounds. Xiao Shun Zi was grateful, promising to help her if she ever needed anything.
Meanwhile, Zhao Chen Yi was preparing for the upcoming martial arts competition. He understood that the Emperor's decision to name him for the match was an opportunity to atone for past mistakes. He discussed the recent sulfur explosion incident, and Xin'er, who had investigated it, confirmed that the sulfur residue from the explosion differed from standard reserves, indicating deliberate tampering.
Zhao Chen Yi realized the explosion was no accident and that he had misjudged Lu Ranran, whom he initially thought was careless. He speculated that the culprit might have targeted Zhao Chenxuan, Lu Ranran, or himself, ultimately concluding that if he was the target, he had inadvertently implicated them both, a thought that weighed heavily on him. Lu Ranran, observing Zhao Chen Yi in what appeared to be a good mood, approached him, subtly praising his skills in archery.
She then directly asked him to take her to the martial arts competition. Zhao Chen Yi, concerned for her safety given her recent close call, refused, warning her about the dangers of the competition where "swords have no eyes." Just then, Xin'er arrived, asking Zhao Chen Yi about their shared participation in the martial arts match.
As Xin'er spoke, Lu Ranran noticed a scar on the back of her hand, immediately suspecting that Xin'er might be the person Xu Lang was looking for. Determined to attend the competition, Lu Ranran devised a plan to allow all palace maids to go under the guise of supporting the princes. She proposed her idea to Zhao Chenxuan, suggesting that palace maids could form cheering squads for their favored princes, with small prizes to encourage participation.
Zhao Chenxuan supported her idea, and soon, palace maids enthusiastically registered to cheer for various princes, particularly Zhao Chen Yi. Lu Ranran, along with Yun Zhu, signed up to support Zhao Chenyao, though Lu Ranran couldn't help but inwardly mock Zhao Chenyao's perceived lack of popularity compared to Zhao Chen Yi. Later that night, Ah Wen confronted Lu Ranran, pressing her about finding the girl with the hand scar.
Lu Ranran, recognizing that Ah Wen's lord intended harm, decided not to reveal Xin'er's identity. She feigned ignorance, claiming it was impossible to check every girl's wrist in Fourth Prince's palace, which Ah Wen promptly corrected, stating the scar was on the back of the hand, not the wrist. She inwardly resolved to be a "good person" and protect Xin'er, despite considering her a rival.
On the day of the martial arts competition, Lu Ranran and Yun Zhu first joined the cheering crowds, noting the overwhelming support for Zhao Chen Yi. Lu Ranran then led Yun Zhu to a side hall, which turned out to be Zhao Chenyao's private area where his weapons were displayed. Xiao Shun Zi soon discovered them, warning them that Zhao Chenyao would be angry if his servants were absent. Zhao Chenyao himself then appeared, catching them.
Yun Zhu and Xiao Shun Zi quickly fled, leaving Lu Ranran to face him alone. Zhao Chenyao recognized her and, despite her flattery and claims of wanting to cheer him on, questioned her true intentions for sneaking into his private space. He also commented on an injury he sustained, implying it was due to her previous tea-spilling incident.
As Zhao Chen Yi arrived to thunderous cheers from his supporters, Lu Ranran smirked, thinking that even if Zhao Chen Yi hadn't brought her, she had found her own way in. The competition officially began with Zhao Chenyao fighting first against Bo Lu Tai. Lu Ranran enthusiastically cheered for him, impressed by his combat prowess.
When another Wazi warrior challenged Zhao Chenyao, ignoring the one-on-one rule, Lu Ranran boldly spoke up in defense of Zhao Chenyao, calling out the unfairness of the situation. Zhao Chenyao fought the new opponent, who had requested he forgo weapons. Though he initially seemed to be struggling, Zhao Chen Yi unexpectedly appeared, intervening and quickly defeating the opponent. Earlier in the fight, Lu Ranran had internally admired Zhao Chenyao as "New Ming's best warrior" for his fighting prowess.
Next, Zhao Chen Yi faced Ji Huan in an archery contest. Ji Huan proposed a "living target" and, to Lu Ranran's horror, chose her. Despite her internal protests about the danger, Zhao Chen Yi agreed to the terms. Unbeknownst to Lu Ranran, Xu Lang's faction intended to use this opportunity to have Zhao Chen Yi eliminate her during the competition, viewing it as a chance to kill two birds with one stone.
Ji Huan placed a small copper coin on Lu Ranran's head as the target, and Zhao Chen Yi volunteered to shoot first. As he took aim, a hidden saboteur interfered with his shot, causing the arrow to veer off course and narrowly miss Lu Ranran. Zhao Chen Yi immediately rushed towards her. At that critical moment, Zhao Chenyao appeared and caught the arrow mid-air, saving Lu Ranran.
Zhao Chen Yi realized the shot was not an accident but a deliberate act of sabotage. After the dramatic archery event, Lu Ranran received a "Disaster Relief Talisman" as a reward for completing the martial arts match storyline. The talisman could be used once on one character to avert a disaster, but not to cure illness. Lu Ranran later saw Zhao Chen Yi enjoying drinks with others.
She couldn't help but think about how he had almost killed her during the competition yet showed no sign of guilt. That night, Lu Ranran drank heavily. Zhao Chenyao saw her staggering away, clearly intoxicated, and followed her. In her drunken state, Lu Ranran mistook Zhao Chenyao for Zhao Chen Yi, tearfully questioning why he had been so cold and heartless.
Zhao Chenyao, whose feelings for Lu Ranran had grown over time, consoled her, advising her not to drink if she couldn't handle it. He then embraced her. This tender moment was unfortunately witnessed by Zhao Chen Yi, who, angered by the sight, turned and left. Zhao Chenyao, still concerned for Lu Ranran, instructed his subordinate to ensure the Matron wouldn't give her a hard time and to deliver hangover soup to her the next morning. Later, Yun Zhu noticed the injury on Zhao Chenyao's hand, sustained from catching the arrow meant for Lu Ranran.
Episode 6 Recap
Lu Ranran awoke to find herself in bed, her head throbbing. Yun Zhu, who had prepared hangover tea, confirmed that the Second Prince, Zhao Chenyao, had brought her back last night, but Lu Ranran could not recall any of the events after drinking heavily. Yun Zhu seemed unhappy and asked Lu Ranran if she truly couldn't remember who brought her home, to which Lu Ranran vaguely wondered if it was Zhao Chenyao.
Yun Zhu then pressed her, implying that if one likes someone, they should be devoted only to him. Feeling Yun Zhu's growing anger, Lu Ranran tried to help her with the laundry, but Yun Zhu coldly refused her assistance, telling her it had nothing to do with her. While Lu Ranran was doing laundry by herself, a black-clad figure suddenly attacked her with a hidden weapon. The Fourth Prince, Zhao Chen Yi, swiftly intervened, pulling her out of harm's way.
As the assailant persisted, Zhao Chen Yi engaged in a fight. Lu Ranran, desperate to help, realized her game inventory offered no useful weapons. Thinking quickly, she threw dirt into the assailant's eyes. As Zhao Chen Yi pulled her to safety, Lu Ranran recognized the attacker's accent as Ah Wen's. Zhao Chen Yi sustained an injury to his arm from the hidden weapon.
Fearing the weapon was poisoned, Lu Ranran distracted him by yelling about a "flying pig" before personally sucking the venom from his wound. Overwhelmed, Zhao Chen Yi kissed her, and Lu Ranran, though initially shy, returned his affection. Meanwhile, Yun Zhu accidentally damaged a piece of clothing belonging to Xu Lang, which had been a gift from the Emperor. She was severely reprimanded by the matron and decided to apologize to Xu Lang personally.
At Xu Lang's residence, a guard attempting to block her and flirt with her was interrupted by Xu Lang's appearance. Seeing the multiple scars and injuries on Yun Zhu's hands, Xu Lang instructed his subordinate, Ah Wu, to send her back to the Clothing Department and convey that a damaged garment was not a reason to trouble a servant. Yun Zhu was deeply grateful.
Later, Xu Lang interrogated the disrespectful guard, demanding to know which hand had touched Yun Zhu, and ordered both hands be chopped off. Back in the palace, Lu Ranran overheard the matron scolding Yun Zhu about the damaged garment. Realizing the damage might have occurred during an earlier playful scuffle between them, Lu Ranran stepped forward, accepting shared responsibility.
The matron, however, offered a condition for forgiveness: Lu Ranran must perform admirably and earn praise at the upcoming Queen Dowager's birthday banquet. Upon seeing a game prompt confirming this new "quest," Lu Ranran readily accepted, hoping to mend her friendship with Yun Zhu. Elsewhere, Ah Wen reported his failed assassination attempt to Xu Lang, explaining that the Fourth Prince, Zhao Chen Yi, had protected Lu Ranran and that Ah Wen's voice was recognized.
Xu Lang was furious, deeming him a failure. To treat Zhao Chen Yi's injury, Lu Ranran visited the Medicine Department, where an official, impressed by her knowledge, provided her with the necessary herbs. When Lu Ranran brought the medicine to Zhao Chen Yi, Xin'er also arrived, offering her own prescription. A brief contention arose regarding the compatibility of their medicines, but Zhao Chen Yi assured them he would take both.
Lu Ranran, however, made sure to include very bitter ingredients in her concoction, playfully recalling a past incident where Zhao Chen Yi had given her bitter medicine. That night, Ah Wen was ambushed by two black-clad assassins. He managed to unmask one, revealing him to be Xu Lang's man, confirming Xu Lang's intent to silence him for his failure. However, Zhao Chen Yi's subordinate arrived just in time and rescued Ah Wen.
Zhao Chen Yi then prevented Xin'er from further punishing Ah Wen. Zhao Chen Yi offered Ah Wen a chance to work for him, promising to fulfill his wishes. Ah Wen hesitated, but upon learning that Zhao Chen Yi was aware his brother designed the unique dagger and was still with Xu Lang, Ah Wen agreed to cooperate if his brother was saved.
He confessed that Xu Lang initially favored Lu Ranran but decided to have her killed after she became closer to Zhao Chen Yi. The preliminary selections for the Queen Dowager's birthday banquet began. Lu Ranran, with her friends from the Clothing Department, was nervous. When it was her turn, she performed a rapid-fire recitation of food dishes, a kind of tongue twister.
The audience and some judges found it absurd, but Zhao Chen Yi, who was among the judges, praised her clear articulation, eloquent speech, and rhyming scheme, acknowledging her considerable effort. He passed her through the initial round. Afterward, Yun Zhu apologized to Lu Ranran for her earlier coldness and for putting her in a difficult position. Lu Ranran also apologized for any misunderstanding. They reconciled, reaffirming their sisterly bond.
Lu Ranran then shared her "new idea" for the main banquet performance. The Eleventh Prince, Zhao Chenxuan, having learned about Lu Ranran's performance, presented her with a "speakerphone" (megaphone) he invented, making several for her friends as well. Lu Ranran and her friends joyfully received the gifts. At the actual birthday banquet, Lu Ranran and her friends performed for the Queen Dowager, wishing her well-being. The Queen Dowager was highly pleased and rewarded them.
Suddenly, the Crown Prince collapsed due to heart palpitations. Lu Ranran immediately rushed to his side, assessing his condition, noting the absence of a pulse and breathing. Ignoring the protests and attempts by guards to restrain her, she began modern resuscitation techniques, determined not to miss the critical window for saving his life. The Eleventh Prince, Zhao Chenxuan, tried to intervene, assuring everyone Lu Ranran meant no harm, but he was overridden by Imperial Concubine Zhang. Lu Ranran continued her efforts despite the commotion.
Episode 7 Recap
At the Empress Dowager's birthday banquet, when the Crown Prince suddenly collapsed, Lu Ranran rushed to his side and performed emergency treatment using modern methods. The Empress Dowager found Lu Ranran's actions strange and ordered her arrest, but Zhao Chen Yi and Zhao Chen Xuan quickly intervened. Zhao Chen Yi began to highlight Lu Ranran's exceptional talent in dissection during the palace's talent assessment, and Zhao Chen Xuan completed his sentence, calling her a "miracle worker."
Despite this, the Empress Dowager insisted on her removal until the Imperial Physician arrived. Once the Crown Prince regained consciousness, the Imperial Physician confirmed that Lu Ranran's unconventional but effective treatment had saved his life. The Crown Prince himself thanked Lu Ranran and requested his grandmother not to punish her.
Impressed, the Empress Dowager not only pardoned Lu Ranran but promoted the former laundry maid to a medical assistant court lady in the Pharmaceutical Department, assigning her to serve at the Crown Prince's Always Inviting Palace. Zhao Chen Xuan mentioned that Zhao Chen Yi had previously selected Lu Ranran as his personal laundry maid, suggesting his brother's approval was needed for the transfer. Lu Ranran secretly hoped Zhao Chen Yi would refuse, as she yearned to remain close to him.
However, Zhao Chen Yi simply joked that his earlier claim was not serious and that his brother needed her more, allowing her transfer before making a swift exit. The Empress Dowager finalized Lu Ranran's new assignment. Alone later, Lu Ranran lamented that her new role at the Crown Prince's residence would prevent her from pursuing Zhao Chen Yi.
Recalling her game system, she decided to use her last "save game" opportunity, which Qin Shou confirmed was a reward for completing a side quest (fulfilling Yun Zhu's wish). Lu Ranran’s strategy was to restart, fulfill Yun Zhu's desire to shine, and thus avoid her transfer to the Crown Prince’s palace. After confirming the save, Lu Ranran approached Yun Zhu, presenting her with a new dress she had sewn.
She revealed her plan for Yun Zhu to take her place on stage at the Empress Dowager's banquet, sacrificing her own opportunity to fulfill Yun Zhu's dream. Lu Ranran then sought out Zhao Chen Yi, asking for a small favor. She explained that after the performance, she would bring Yun Zhu to toast him and Zhao Chenyao.
She asked Zhao Chen Yi to ensure Zhao Chenyao remained at the table and to subtly praise Yun Zhu in a way that would appeal to the Second Prince. Zhao Chen Yi, initially surprised, agreed after realizing Lu Ranran's intentions were for Yun Zhu, not herself. Lu Ranran was confident her plan would be stunning and that she would avoid being sent to the Crown Prince's residence by ensuring he remained healthy.
Determined to prevent the Crown Prince from falling ill again, Lu Ranran visited the medical office and painstakingly prepared a special "Yi An Ning soup" using fourteen precious herbs known for calming the heart and invigorating blood. She entrusted this miraculous medicine, along with a "Disaster Relief Amulet" she obtained from Qin Shou, to Zhao Chen Xuan, asking him to deliver them to the Crown Prince.
Although Zhao Chen Xuan initially questioned her newfound belief in amulets, Lu Ranran emphasized its symbolic value in bringing peace of mind. Zhao Chen Xuan, trusting Lu Ranran, agreed to deliver both items. Zhao Chen Xuan first presented the medicine to the Crown Prince's consort. An imperial physician examining the concoction recognized it as a long-lost "Yan Shou (life-prolonging) soup," praising its potent properties for healing and fortifying the body.
Later, the Crown Prince's consort conveyed this good news to the Empress Dowager, reporting the Crown Prince's remarkable improvement after taking Lu Ranran's medicine and reiterating Lu Ranran's exceptional medical knowledge. The Empress Dowager was delighted, expressing her hopes for the Crown Prince to recover fully and for the consort to bear him an heir soon. The consort also passed on the "Disaster Relief Amulet" to the Crown Prince, hoping it would ward off misfortune.
Meanwhile, Zhao Chen Yi had imprisoned Ah Wen to protect him after Ah Wen revealed critical information. Guards confirmed Ah Wen's request that Zhao Chen Yi not forget his promise. Zhao Chen Yi was actively gathering evidence of Prime Minister Xu Lang's corruption, intending to present it to the Emperor to clear the Yu family's name.
Xin'er, however, wanted more severe retribution against Xu Lang, hoping he would suffer a broken family and a painful death, just as her own family had. Zhao Chen Yi, though, had changed his stance; he now sought a peaceful, just resolution, emphasizing that they must fight fairly and avoid putting their lives at risk, promising that all would be settled soon and they would start a new life.
That evening, Lu Ranran visited Zhao Chen Yi, eagerly sharing the story of Sun Wu Kong (before becoming the Monkey King) and his love for Zi Yun (Zixia Fairy). She recounted how Zhi Zun Yu (Supreme Treasure) regretted not cherishing his true love and wished for 10,000 years if given another chance. Through the story, Lu Ranran subtly conveyed her own feelings and the importance of cherishing love.
Zhao Chen Yi, however, feigned ignorance, calling her storytelling "average" and dismissing it as "just a story." Frustrated by his coldness, and seeing Xin'er acting intimately with Zhao Chen Yi nearby, Lu Ranran left in anger. Zhao Chen Yi, in an internal monologue, expressed regret for hurting her but affirmed his decision to keep her at a safer distance until current matters were settled, protecting her from further harm.
On the day of the Empress Dowager's birthday, Yun Zhu performed onstage as planned. Unexpectedly, the Emperor arrived and was captivated by Yun Zhu, inviting her to stroll in the Imperial Garden with him that evening. Sensing danger for her friend, Lu Ranran openly protested, stating that "love is about mutual affection" and could not be imposed.
To protect Lu Ranran from the Emperor's wrath, Zhao Chen Yi quickly intervened, loudly declaring Lu Ranran as the person who helped the Crown Prince cure his illness. The Crown Prince then stepped forward and officially requested the Emperor to promote Lu Ranran to a court lady in the Medical Division and transfer her to his Always Inviting Palace to manage his medicines, citing her miraculous healing of his heart palpitations. The Emperor readily agreed.
Zhao Chen Yi privately believed that the Crown Prince's palace, though seemingly dangerous, was actually the safest place for Lu Ranran, where Xu Lang could not easily harm her. Yun Zhu, after some hesitation, accepted the Emperor's invitation, and a sorrowful Lu Ranran apologized to her friend, who, in turn, advised her to be careful in her new posting. Soon after, Zhao Chen Yi was informed that Ah Wen had been abducted from prison overnight.
He immediately suspected the Emperor's involvement. Indeed, the Emperor had received the memorial impeaching Prime Minister Xu Lang, with Ah Wen named as a witness. However, the Emperor dismissed Ah Wen's testimony as unreliable, declaring the impeachment memorandum shelved. He explained to his advisor that he prioritized a "balanced Imperial Court" with capable officials like Xu Lang over "dead, innocent, virtuous officials" from the Yu clique.
He also rejected Zhao Chen Yi's request to claim his domain early, preferring to keep him in the palace to "motivate" him and balance Zhao Chenyao's growing influence. Xu Lang, in a private conversation with the Empress Dowager, tried to discredit Lu Ranran, suggesting she was "not simple" due to her proximity to both Zhao Chen Yi and the Crown Prince.
The Empress Dowager dismissed his concerns about Zhao Chen Yi, stating he was no threat to the Crown Prince, and that Lu Ranran, having saved the Crown Prince's life, should be kept for now, as it's not too late to kill her when she becomes unwanted. Undeterred, Xu Lang proposed an alternative plan: to "control" Yun Zhu, whom the Emperor had noticed, and use her as "bargaining power" against Lu Ranran if needed.
The Empress Dowager agreed, ordering Yun Zhu to be sent to the cold palace and to be kept from ever seeing the Emperor again. Meanwhile, Xin'er, distraught at Yu Manor, wept over the Emperor's failure to convict Xu Lang despite the conclusive evidence. She believed Xu Lang's relationship with the Crown Prince was his "protective amulet" and vowed to see him fall once that protection was gone. Zhao Chen Yi found her distressed, lamenting her inability to clear her teacher's name. He comforted her in her sadness.
Episode 8 Recap
Yun Zhu, who had become a concubine, still held Lu Ren Jia in her thoughts and sent her a jade bracelet. Accepting the gift, Lu Ren Jia reflected that the carefree times she shared with Yun Zhu were now a thing of the past, acknowledging that their current destinies were beyond their control.
Meanwhile, Zhao Chen Yi, concerned for Lu Ren Jia's well-being as she was assigned to the Crown Prince's Always Inviting Palace, had already dispatched his Imperial Guard, Bao, to discreetly bribe Matron Rong and other officials to ensure her safety.
Despite his efforts, Zhao Chen Yi's request to keep Lu Ren Jia out of the Crown Prince's Palace had been declined by his father, forcing him to accept that she would have to "suffer a while" there, though he believed her intelligence and their secret help would see her through. As Lu Ren Jia prepared to begin her new duties, she was unexpectedly taken away by another eunuch, Xiao Shun Zi.
Zhao Chen Yi, learning that the Ministry of Rites had produced beautiful new artificial silk flowers, instructed his subordinate to deliver some to Lu Ren Jia. However, the subordinate encountered Xin'er, who insisted on taking the gift herself to Lu Ren Jia, despite being told Zhao Chen Yi wanted it delivered personally. Xin'er questioned the lack of trust, and the subordinate eventually relented. Lu Ren Jia was led to Zhao Chenyao's residence.
She tried to apologize for past mishaps, but Zhao Chenyao dismissed her, forcing her to swallow a pill. He then chillingly explained that it was the "Death-in-7-days Pill," which would cause her intestines to dissolve if she didn't receive the antidote within a week. He demanded that she memorize the Crown Prince's daily needs and report them to Xiao Shun Zi in seven days to get the antidote, essentially coercing her into spying.
Lu Ren Jia expressed fear of being discovered, but Zhao Chenyao threatened to kill her if she revealed their conversation. Feeling trapped, Lu Ren Jia realized she had traded one perilous situation for another. News of Lu Ren Jia's abduction reached Zhao Chen Yi. His subordinate reported that after failing to find Lu Ren Jia at Always Inviting Palace, he saw her being taken by guards to Zhao Chenyao's residence.
Enraged, Zhao Chen Yi immediately confronted his Second Brother, demanding to know where Lu Ren Jia was and what he intended to do with her. Zhao Chenyao claimed it was a personal matter, but Zhao Chen Yi accused him of meddling and reminded him that punishing a court maid privately violated palace rules. Zhao Chenyao mocked Zhao Chen Yi's sudden concern for rules and stated that Lu Ren Jia now belonged to Always Inviting Palace.
Though their argument ended inconclusively, Zhao Chen Yi was somewhat relieved to hear she was no longer in Zhao Chenyao's possession. Upon arriving at Always Inviting Palace, Lu Ren Jia was greeted by Matron Rong, who informed her that she, along with other high-ranking maidservants from various departments, would serve the Crown Prince. Matron Rong offered her support if Lu Ren Jia faced any difficulties.
That night, Lu Ren Jia heard the unsettling cries of a baby and learned from other palace maids about Gui Zhi, a former maid who had died by drowning after accidentally spilling the Crown Prince's medicine. The maids whispered rumors that Gui Zhi's ghost was now haunting the palace, making Lu Ren Jia realize that her new assignment would be fraught with challenges. Meanwhile, Yun Zhu, now confined to the Cold Palace, was frightened when Xu Lang appeared.
He embraced her, but she struggled to break free. Xu Lang began to malign Lu Ren Jia, accusing her of manipulating situations to get close to the princes and blaming her for Yun Zhu's current plight. He vehemently declared that only he could protect and assist Yun Zhu within the treacherous palace walls. Days turned into a routine as Lu Ren Jia diligently administered the Crown Prince's daily medication.
The Crown Prince remembered her and even noticed a subtle difference in the taste of his medicine one morning. Lu Ren Jia confidently identified it as Ginseng and Spikenard soup, used for Chi and Yin deficiency, reassuring him of its safety. The Crown Prince recalled her from a previous incident where he had saved her when she was out of breath from running, and praised her medical knowledge, leading her to promise her utmost dedication in preparing his medicine.
Soon after, Zhao Chenxuan visited, ostensibly to see the Crown Prince, but the Crown Prince playfully suggested his true purpose was to see Lu Ren Jia, implying Zhao Chenxuan would now frequent Always Inviting Palace. Later that evening, Xiao Shun Zi delivered another pill from Zhao Chenyao to Lu Ren Jia, who sarcastically expressed her annoyance at the large pill and lack of water.
She then dutifully provided Xiao Shun Zi with a detailed report of the Crown Prince's meals over the past seven days. That same night, Xin'er was discovered rummaging through Lu Ren Jia's belongings. When Lu Ren Jia returned, Xin'er quickly composed herself and presented Lu Ren Jia with the silk flowers from Zhao Chen Yi, claiming one was a gift from herself and the other from Zhao Chen Yi.
In the dead of night, Lu Ren Jia was abruptly awakened by urgent news: the Crown Prince was critically ill. She rushed to his side and remained vigilant throughout the night until he finally regained consciousness in the morning. Determined to find the cause of his sudden illness, Lu Ren Jia resolved to investigate whether his medication and food were incompatible.
She inquired with Mister Jiu about the previous day's meals, only to learn that all leftovers had been disposed of. Later, she overheard Xiao Shun Zi secretly asking Lord Li not to reveal the Crown Prince's interest in Schisandra berry. Intrigued, Lu Ren Jia requested to review the Crown Prince's medical records from Lord Li, finding references to Schisandra berry and other herbs. She noted that the amount of Schisandra berry prescribed in normal medicine should be harmless.
The Empress Dowager was furious upon learning of the Crown Prince's severe illness, convinced that someone was trying to harm him. She ordered an exhaustive investigation into everyone serving the Crown Prince. That evening, Zhao Chenyao visited Lu Ren Jia, expressing unexpected concern about the Crown Prince's health and the cause of his illness, which Lu Ren Jia found peculiar. As soon as Lu Ren Jia left, she was summoned by the Empress Dowager's matron.
The Empress Dowager sternly accused Lu Ren Jia of plotting to murder the Crown Prince. Lu Ren Jia vehemently denied the accusation, but the Empress Dowager questioned her knowledge of Schisandra berry. Lu Ren Jia meticulously explained its medicinal properties, including its ability to strengthen the heart and protect the liver. However, the Empress Dowager countered that while beneficial in moderation, excessive amounts could be poisonous.
She asserted that the Crown Prince's critical condition resulted from an overdose, and since Lu Ren Jia was responsible for his medicine, she was to blame. Despite Lu Ren Jia's pleas of innocence, she was taken away to the Department of Internal Punishment. Zhao Chen Yi was deeply distressed to learn of Lu Ren Jia's imprisonment, lamenting that all his careful plans to protect her had ultimately failed.
The following day, the Empress Dowager informed the Crown Prince that Schisandra berry residue had been found on Lu Ren Jia's silk flower. The Crown Prince, however, staunchly defended Lu Ren Jia, praising her meticulous care and loyalty, reminding his grandmother that Lu Ren Jia had saved him before. He implored the Empress Dowager not to harm Lu Ren Jia until the truth was fully uncovered. Zhao Chenyao, upon hearing of Lu Ren Jia's incarceration, expressed worry.
The Empress Dowager, speaking with her attendant, confided that she knew Lu Ren Jia was merely a scapegoat. She believed the true mastermind was cunning and intended to keep Lu Ren Jia imprisoned to lull them into making a mistake, allowing her to expose the real culprit. While considering whether to eliminate Lu Ren Jia if she proved disloyal, like Gui Zhi, she ultimately decided to keep her confined until the investigation concluded.
Meanwhile, Zhao Chen Yi, reviewing medical records and focusing on Schisandra berry, recalled Lu Ren Jia's prior abduction by Zhao Chenyao. He confronted Zhao Chenyao, accusing him of orchestrating the Crown Prince's poisoning and forcing Lu Ren Jia to administer the tainted medicine. Zhao Chenyao denied the allegations, claiming the Schisandra berry was for his own sleeping treatment during the changing seasons. Zhao Chen Yi dismissed his explanation and was forcibly escorted out of the residence.
Undeterred, Zhao Chen Yi then went to the Empress Dowager, begging her to spare Lu Ren Jia, vouching for her character and reasoning that Lu Ren Jia would not harm the Crown Prince after having saved him previously. He urged a thorough investigation. The Empress Dowager noted that the Crown Prince and Crown Princess had also pleaded for Lu Ren Jia. She then agreed to release Lu Ren Jia and ordered a more careful re-examination of the case.
After Zhao Chen Yi left, the Empress Dowager confided in her matron that Zhao Chen Yi's overt pleading had convinced her he was not involved in the poisoning, as a true culprit would avoid such suspicion. She also revealed that Zhao Chen Yi had recently fought with Zhao Chenyao over Lu Ren Jia's situation, leading her to suspect Zhao Chenyao's involvement.
Soon after, Zhao Chenxuan also arrived, bringing pastries and earnestly begging the Empress Dowager not to harm Lu Ren Jia. The Empress Dowager informed him that she had already ordered her release. Zhao Chenxuan quickly departed, leaving the Empress Dowager to ponder how many people were interceding for Lu Ren Jia and concluding that if she was indeed framed, she would be a valuable asset to the Crown Prince.
Episode 9 Recap
Lu Ranran was released from the Department of Internal Punishment, much to the surprise of the guards, who commented on her lack of physical injuries. She overheard them saying that the Second Prince, Zhao Chenyao, had specifically watched over her, making her wonder if he had saved her because he still found her useful. Soon after, Zhao Chenxuan rushed to greet her, expressing his immense relief and concern that the Empress Dowager might have harmed her.
However, despite Zhao Chenxuan's attention, Lu Ranran felt a pang of disappointment that Zhao Chen Yi wasn't there. Meanwhile, Zhao Chen Yi confronted Xin'er, convinced she was involved in the silk flower incident that led to Lu Ranran's imprisonment. He questioned if she had framed Lu Ranran, reminding her that the Empress Dowager had found the silk flower as evidence.
Xin'er challenged him, asking if he would believe her if she denied it, then criticized his unconditional trust in Lu Ranran, which she felt was unlike his trust in her, which was merely based on her being his teacher's daughter. She accused him of being too deeply embroiled in Lu Ranran's alleged schemes.
Zhao Chen Yi tried to de-escalate, referencing his promise to her teacher, but Xin'er retorted that he had also promised to clear her Yu Family's name and help her seek revenge—a promise he hadn't kept. She then declared that if he couldn't fulfill his word, he shouldn't mention their future plans together again.
As Xin'er left, Zhao Chen Yi warned her that pursuing revenge would endanger her life and undermine any efforts to restore her family's reputation, but Xin'er dismissed his concerns, stating he didn't need to worry about it. Moments after Xin'er's departure, Zhao Chen Yi coughed violently and vomited blood. His servant immediately expressed concern, attributing his injury to Zhao Chenyao's excessive force and worrying that his martial arts abilities would now be exposed.
Zhao Chen Yi, however, brushed it aside, stating that nothing else mattered as long as Lu Ranran was safe. Alone in her room, Lu Ranran fondly reminisced about her cherished moments with Zhao Chen Yi, recalling their conversations about stars and a poem they had shared about united hearts. She sighed, thinking that telepathy was indeed a difficult thing.
At the same time, Zhao Chen Yi gazed at a calligraphy scroll, a reminder of teaching Lu Ranran to write, focusing on natural flow and relaxed wrist, a scroll that also bore the line from the poem about united hearts. His servant then informed him that Lu Ranran had returned safely, and Zhao Chen Yi quietly left, telling his attendant not to follow him. Later that night, Lu Ranran checked her game's favorability scores.
She noted Zhao Chenxuan had 50, Zhao Chenyu 40, and Zhao Chenyao 30, but Zhao Chen Yi's score remained a disheartening zero. Frustrated, she muttered about his cold-heartedness, feeling he showed her kindness but no love. When she heard a knock, she eagerly called out for "Sugar Cane the Fourth," only to be met by Zhao Chenxuan, who playfully asked if she was waiting for him. Her disappointment was evident when she realized it wasn't Zhao Chen Yi.
Just as Zhao Chen Yi was on his way to see Lu Ranran, he spotted Zhao Chenxuan leading her away, causing them to miss each other. Zhao Chenxuan, noticing Lu Ranran's somber mood, brought her to a rooftop to share his mother's homemade Cherry Blossom Wine, which he explained was reserved for important people. Lu Ranran, sensing his romantic intentions, tried to deflect by reminding him of his morning classes.
Zhao Chenxuan, however, continued to express his desire to explore new things with her and asked if she would join him. Lu Ranran, recognizing she couldn't reciprocate his feelings, reiterated that she had her own path. She then abruptly pointed to the bright stars, prompting Zhao Chenxuan to declare he would pluck them for her if that was her wish. While stumbling back, slightly tipsy from the cherry blossom wine, Lu Ranran spotted Zhao Chen Yi.
Believing she was hallucinating due to the alcohol, she confronted him, playfully calling him "Sugarcane the Fourth" and accusing him of being heartless. She tearfully poured out her grievances, complaining that he hadn't visited her in prison and still hadn't come to her after her release, despite her waiting for his comfort and care.
She demanded to know why, despite her strong feelings for him, his favorability score in her game remained zero, asking if he was heartless or just teasing her. His confused attendant tried to understand her "favorable impression score" comment. As Lu Ranran continued to cry about his lack of affection, she finally passed out.
Zhao Chen Yi gently took her hand, then carried her back to her room, whispering that he did like her and had always been good to her, but couldn't let anyone know, calling her a "Silly Pig." The next morning, Lu Ranran woke up in her bed, her head throbbing. She remembered nothing of the previous night, attributing her memory loss to excessive drinking, and simply went back to sleep.
For several days, Zhao Chen Yi was troubled by dreams of Yun Zhu, wondering if there was some connection. He soon received a report from his servant confirming that Yun Zhu's background was clean, her household registration normal, and she had befriended Lu Ranran after entering the palace. The servant then revealed that Yun Zhu had just been crowned a consort but was inexplicably sent to the Cold Palace.
Shocked by the news, Zhao Chen Yi immediately instructed his servant, Xiao Bao, to make arrangements for her care, acknowledging her as Lu Ranran's friend. He specifically ordered that Lu Ranran should not be informed of Yun Zhu's predicament to spare her worry. Later, Xiao Bao, Zhao Chen Yi's attendant, attempted to deliver items to Yun Zhu in the Cold Palace, stating they were from Yun Zhu's friend, Lu Ranran.
However, he was intercepted by Xu Lang's guard, Ah Wu, who refused him entry and took the package, promising to deliver it. Ah Wu then reported this incident to Xu Lang, who was angered by Zhao Chen Yi's people approaching Yun Zhu, stating he was forced to act sooner than he had planned. Meanwhile, confined to the Cold Palace, Yun Zhu asked a eunuch to deliver a letter to Lu Ranran at Always Inviting Palace, requesting a meeting.
This eunuch was also stopped, this time by Xu Lang himself, who read the letter and became enraged at Yun Zhu's continued thoughts of Lu Ranran. Xu Lang instructed the eunuch to tell Yun Zhu the letter had been delivered, but he clearly had no intention of actually giving it to Lu Ranran. After her release, Xin'er visited Lu Ranran, bringing snacks and feigning concern. Lu Ranran, however, was wary, directly asking Xin'er what she wanted.
Lu Ranran then brought up the silk flower incident, pointing out that the Empress Dowager had taken the silk flower, which Xin'er had given her, as evidence. Xin'er quickly deflected, emphasizing that Zhao Chen Yi had given the silk flower to Lu Ranran and questioning why she was being implicated. Noticing Xin'er's nervousness, Lu Ranran politely but firmly dismissed her, stating she wasn't in the mood for company.
Alone, Lu Ranran mused that something was definitely amiss with Xin'er and the silk flower, resolving to ask Zhao Chen Yi for clarification. Xu Lang received a report that his ambush on Zhao Chen Yi had failed to kill him but succeeded in poisoning him with a potent "Mana-Depleting Poison," which pleased Xu Lang.
Meanwhile, Zhao Chen Yi lay severely injured in his palace, telling his concerned servant that he had been ambushed while secretly meeting Lord Ruan, who was now also in danger due to Zhao Chen Yi's actions. He refused to let his servant call an imperial physician, fearing it would expose his martial arts abilities and his secret injury.
Despite his servant's concern that the current medication wouldn't suffice, Zhao Chen Yi insisted, only asking him to fetch the medicine and cancel a meeting at Gentle Peach Pavilion. He realized he had been afflicted by the "Mana-Depleting Poison." Under Lu Ranran's continued care, the Crown Prince's health improved, and he expressed gratitude for her dedication. Both the Crown Prince and Crown Princess treated her with great kindness, asking her to take his pulse.
As Lu Ranran examined him, she realized that his persistent Chi deficiency was likely the reason for their inability to conceive a child. Recognizing their kindness and their deep regret over being childless, Lu Ranran decided to help them. She reassured them that with continued rest and their cooperation, she was confident she could help them fulfill their wish of having a child, a prospect that delighted the royal couple.
Days passed, and Zhao Chen Yi's injury showed no signs of healing, worrying his servant. The servant suggested seeking an imperial physician or even Lu Ranran, but Zhao Chen Yi adamantly refused, unwilling to involve her in his dangerous situation. He was relieved to hear that no one suspected anything outside and that Xu Lang hadn't made a move. Meanwhile, Xin'er was summoned to meet the Empress.
The Empress, observing Xin'er's features, found her familiar and soon recognized her connection to the disgraced Yu Family. Noticing Xin'er's attachment to a plain silk flower, the Empress probed its significance, then dropped a veiled threat about exposing Zhao Chen Yi for harboring a member of the Yu Family. The Empress then offered Xin'er her pity and help, effectively coercing her into a partnership by highlighting Zhao Chen Yi's limitations in protecting her and suggesting they join forces.
Lu Ranran went to Cherished Orders Palace to see Zhao Chen Yi but was told by Xiao Bao that he wasn't seeing visitors. She noticed a strong smell of medicine coming from inside and initially grew angry, believing Zhao Chen Yi was avoiding her. However, as she walked away, she suddenly recognized specific medicinal scents—dried rehmannia glutinosa, dipsacus, and crow-dipper—on Xiao Bao, realizing that if he was healthy, then Zhao Chen Yi himself must be ill.
Undeterred, Lu Ranran returned later that night, braving the rain, and insisted on seeing him. Despite Xiao Bao's attempts to stop her, she pushed past him, demanding to know if Zhao Chen Yi was injured. She burst into his room and was heartbroken to find him severely wounded. He tried to deny his injury, but she quickly inspected his wound, horrified to see it festering. As she worriedly questioned him, Zhao Chen Yi fainted.
Lu Ranran immediately sprang into action, getting hot water and gauze. She later explained to Xiao Bao that Zhao Chen Yi's wound hadn't healed and still smelled of blood, leading her to suspect he had been poisoned. She quickly wrote a prescription to replenish his blood and Chi, instructing Xiao Bao to prepare the medicine. As she stayed by his side, Zhao Chen Yi, semi-conscious, murmured for her not to leave. Lu Ranran reassured him that she wouldn't, telling her "Sugarcane the Fourth" that she wasn't angry with him anymore and just wanted him to recover quickly.
Episode 10 Recap
Lu Ranran remained diligently by Zhao Chen Yi's side, wishing for his quick recovery. When Zhao Chen Yi spoke incoherently, Lu Ranran suddenly realized that even if she didn't know the exact poison, Lord Sun, a prominent physician, would. She brought Zhao Chen Yi's blood sample to Lord Sun, who identified it as "Weakening Strength Powder," a potent martial world poison designed to prevent healing.
However, Lord Sun initially refused to treat the patient, stating he could not help without knowing the patient's identity. Driven away, Lu Ranran knelt outside Lord Sun's door, earnestly pleading for Zhao Chen Yi's life. She argued that a doctor's benevolence should extend to all, regardless of the patient's character. Moved by her persistent devotion, Lord Sun eventually provided a medicine that could mitigate the poison's effects, help restore vital energy, and promote healing.
Lu Ranran rushed back to administer it. Back with Zhao Chen Yi, she meticulously cared for him, oblivious to her own discomfort. Seeing his difficulty in swallowing, she took the bitter medicine into her own mouth and carefully fed it to him, mouth-to-mouth. She reflected on her own actions, feeling "seriously crazy" for dedicating so much to a mere game character, an NPC who was inconsistently affectionate.
The following morning, Zhao Chen Yi awoke, much to the relief of Lu Ranran and his attendant. Shortly after, Qin Shou appeared to inform Lu Ranran that her actions had unlocked a new side quest: "Prerequisites for Seeing the Physician." She was tasked with becoming a disciple of an Imperial Physician within thirty days and mastering their medical knowledge. Lu Ranran found the task impossible, but Qin Shou dismissed her protests, stating the quest was mandatory.
Completing it would earn her a stand-in wooden puppet, while failure would result in the punishment of cleaning toilets for a day. Qin Shou then vanished. Zhao Chen Yi called for Lu Ranran. She subtly checked his favorability score, finding it still at zero, which left her disappointed. Determined to complete her mission, Lu Ranran sought out Lord Sun again, asking him to take her as a disciple.
Lord Sun refused, citing the Medicine Department's strict rule against accepting female disciples, a rule Lu Ranran recognized as gender inequality. Despite this, she resolved not to give up. For the next few days, Lu Ranran continued her diligent care, and Zhao Chen Yi's condition gradually improved. As she changed his bandages, Zhao Chen Yi observed her, finding comfort in her presence. He learned from his subordinate the extent of Lu Ranran's efforts and hardships in caring for him.
Concerned for her safety due to his dangerous circumstances, Zhao Chen Yi decided to distance himself from her, believing it was the only way to protect her. When Lu Ranran brought him medicine, she found Zhao Chen Yi dozing on the stairs. She asked him about the silk flowers he had sent her, which had nearly gotten her killed.
Zhao Chen Yi, intentionally trying to push her away, responded harshly, dismissing her concerns and telling her to focus on her duties at Always Inviting Palace rather than "hanging around" his residence. Lu Ranran, recalling his calls for her when he was unconscious, sensed he wasn't being sincere but was deeply hurt by his words. Zhao Chen Yi abruptly left, reinforcing his cruel facade.
Heartbroken, Lu Ranran placed the medicine at his doorstep, defiantly telling his guards she would return the next day, before walking away. Thanks to Lu Ranran's assistance, the Crown Princess was found to be pregnant. The news brought immense joy to the Crown Prince and Crown Princess, and the Empress Dowager.
Recognizing Lu Ranran's significant contribution, the Empress Dowager rewarded her with medical books and precious herbs and decreed that she would be on standby at the Medicine Department to assist the Crown Princess throughout her pregnancy. The Imperial Physicians were astonished by Lu Ranran's success, having previously found no medical issues with the Crown Prince or Princess, and decided they must question her about her methods.
On Mid-Autumn Festival, Lu Ranran, expecting to spend it alone, received matcha mooncakes from Zhao Chenxuan, accompanied by a note explaining his absence due to a palace banquet. Lu Ranran found his homemade mooncakes "so gross." Later, the Crown Prince and Crown Princess also sent her celebratory food and wine, prepared in her hometown style, acknowledging her homesickness. Despite these thoughtful gestures, Lu Ranran worried about Zhao Chen Yi.
Suddenly, a dart carrying a message was thrown into her room, instructing her to "Come to the Dining Department immediately." Recognizing the blunt style of "Ice Cube the Second," Lu Ranran knew it was Zhao Chenyao summoning her. At the Dining Department, Zhao Chenyao, under the guise of wanting a meal, actually wanted Lu Ranran to eat more good food.
Despite her protests that she belonged to the Medicine Department, she agreed to cook, hoping to secure his cooperation for the antidote he promised. She prepared him a "highly spicy" malatang. Zhao Chenyao, initially taken aback by the spice, later declared it the best he had ever tasted. Lu Ranran updated him on the Crown Prince's improved health.
Zhao Chenyao then suggested they continue meeting at the Dining Department, claiming it was for her safety in the cold weather, implying he needed her to keep working for him. Returning to her room, Lu Ranran was disappointed that Zhao Chen Yi had not appeared. However, she found an item on her table.
Recognizing the scent of gardenias, she realized it was a gift from Zhao Chen Yi, concluding he was a "tsundere" (aloof and shy) for leaving a gift while avoiding her. Meanwhile, Zhao Chen Yi, while longing for Lu Ranran, continued to keep his distance, believing it was the only way to ensure her safety. Later, Zhao Chen Yi, while drinking, experienced vivid hallucinations. At the same time, in the game's control room, Xu Lang accidentally triggered a system switch.
This glitch caused Yun Zhu, who was in the Cold Palace, to suddenly lose her sight. Xu Lang rushed to her side, consoling her and vowing to find the system's vulnerability and fix it, ensuring she would never suffer blindness again.
Concurrently, Lu Ranran, while searching for Lord Sun, overheard palace officials discussing Yun Zhu, the beautiful palace maid who had been made a consort and then banished to the Cold Palace for a mistake, and who had recently suffered sudden blindness. This news left Lu Ranran deeply troubled.
Episode 11 Recap
Lu Ren Jia arrived at the Cold Palace, where Zhao Chen Yi attempted to block her path. Despite his efforts, Lu Ren Jia insisted on seeing her friend, Yun Zhu, whose safety worried her. Upon entering, Lu Ren Jia found Yun Zhu unwell and resting.
Yun Zhu initially expressed anger, believing Lu Ren Jia had ignored her letter, but Lu Ren Jia clarified that she never received any message and only rushed over after hearing from an Imperial Doctor that Yun Zhu was ill. Reassured, Yun Zhu shared her concern about being used.
Zhao Chen Yi warned Yun Zhu not to trust Xu Lang, calling him treacherous, but Yun Zhu defended Xu Lang, explaining that without his help, her life in the Cold Palace would be far worse. Seeing Yun Zhu's continued trust in Xu Lang, Zhao Chen Yi cautioned Lu Ren Jia to keep her distance from Yun Zhu, fearing that Xu Lang might use Yun Zhu to manipulate Lu Ren Jia.
Despite the warning, Lu Ren Jia continued to visit and care for the ailing Yun Zhu daily, leading to a temporary recovery of Yun Zhu's eyesight. Shortly after Lu Ren Jia left, Xu Lang visited Yun Zhu and noted her improved condition, attributing it to Lu Ren Jia's companionship. He later encountered Lu Ren Jia and encouraged her to spend more time with Yun Zhu. Lu Ren Jia sensed that Xu Lang's feelings for Yun Zhu were more than ordinary.
Meanwhile, Lu Ren Jia diligently continued her studies with Lord Sun, consistently striving to become his apprentice. Her persistence, combined with a direct order from the Empress Dowager, finally convinced Lord Sun to accept her as his female disciple. As part of her initiation, Lu Ren Jia recited a solemn medical oath, echoing a modern doctor's pledge, vowing to dedicate her life to healing and alleviating human suffering.
Upon successfully becoming Lord Sun’s apprentice, Qin Shou appeared to reward Lu Ren Jia with a "dupe"—a wooden puppet capable of transforming into a human for four hours. Lu Ren Jia then attended to the Crown Prince and Crown Princess. The Crown Princess complained about being constantly bitten by mosquitoes, but the Crown Prince stated he hadn't been bothered by them since summer began. This anomaly prompted Lu Ren Jia to take the Crown Prince's pulse, finding nothing overtly wrong.
She promised to prepare scented sachets for the Crown Princess. Later, Lu Ren Jia stayed up late studying, and Zhao Chen Yi found her asleep. He gently drew a cat on her face before leaving. Xin'er confronted Zhao Chen Yi, expressing her suspicions about Lu Ren Jia's true intentions, especially regarding the Crown Prince.
Zhao Chen Yi, however, dismissed her claims and urged Xin'er to abandon her quest for revenge and leave the palace for her safety, upholding a promise he made to their late teacher. Xin'er defiantly refused, asserting that her actions were her own and had no bearing on him. Zhao Chen Yi frequently checked on Lu Ren Jia, who remained tirelessly occupied with the Crown Prince’s health.
Still puzzled by the Crown Prince’s immunity to mosquito bites, Lu Ren Jia consulted Lord Sun. He explained that the Crown Prince, having suffered from chronic illness since childhood, had long been on various medications, whose residues in his body naturally deterred insects. Relieved that the Crown Prince was not in any immediate danger, Lu Ren Jia felt a weight lift off her shoulders. Later, the Crown Princess expressed a craving for "Sour Cake" from Gentle Peach Pavilion.
Lu Ren Jia volunteered to fetch it from outside the palace, also intending to verify its suitability for pregnant women. The Crown Prince provided her with a special plaque for free passage, reminding her not to stay out too late. While outside, Lu Ren Jia spotted Zhao Chen Yi at the Gentle Peach Pavilion. He was ostensibly socializing with a lady named Qing, but was secretly receiving intelligence from Lord Ruan.
Misinterpreting the situation, Lu Ren Jia accused Zhao Chen Yi of being a playboy. Zhao Chen Yi tried to explain that he was there for a formal transaction, but Lu Ren Jia remained unconvinced, making sarcastic remarks about his reputation. Frustrated, Zhao Chen Yi retorted with a harsh comment, implying he was never serious about her.
Suddenly, Lu Ren Jia collapsed, but not before instructing Zhao Chen Yi to get the antidote from "Ice Cube the Second," referring to Zhao Chenyao. Zhao Chen Yi rushed Lu Ren Jia back to the palace and confronted Zhao Chenyao. It was revealed that Zhao Chenyao had poisoned Lu Ren Jia with the "Death-in-7-days Pill" to coerce her into curing the Crown Prince. Zhao Chenyao referred to Lu Ren Jia as his "undercover agent."
Zhao Chen Yi was furious and heartbroken to see Lu Ren Jia in agony. During this intense confrontation, a flashback revealed Zhao Chenyao's profound affection and loyalty towards the Crown Prince, stemming from childhood memories where the Crown Prince had protected and cared for him, even sharing food in the Cold Palace. This explained Zhao Chenyao’s desperate measures to ensure the Crown Prince’s recovery.
The Crown Prince later affirmed his unwavering bond with Zhao Chenyao and expressed his deepest wish to live a full life with Hui and see their child born, entrusting Lu Ren Jia with his health. Xu Lang, observing the situation through his system, noted Zhao Chen Yi's frantic return with Lu Ren Jia and his confrontation with Zhao Chenyao.
He saw Lu Ren Jia as no ordinary person and silently urged her to "speed up her progress" after checking the favorability ratings of various princes for her, noting Zhao Chen Yi's rating was zero. Lu Ren Jia eventually woke up, disoriented, and worried she had forgotten to retrieve the antidote. To her surprise, she found a prescription for the antidote and Zhao Chen Yi's fan by her bedside, realizing he must have brought her back and secured the cure.
Zhao Chen Yi visited her, and she asked if he knew about her being an "undercover agent." He confirmed he knew Zhao Chenyao had sent her, but assured her he didn't blame her, also revealing that Zhao Chenyao had secretly looked into her well-being. Holding his fan, Lu Ren Jia decided to go see Zhao Chenyao. She found Zhao Chenyao with a bruised face, who admitted he deserved to be hit for poisoning her.
He further explained his long-standing bond with the Crown Prince, revealing that despite changes in their official relationship after the Crown Prince's appointment, their mutual care and his own accomplishments in martial arts were all thanks to the Crown Prince. He reiterated his commitment to his brother and entrusted the Crown Prince's health to Lu Ren Jia. Meanwhile, Xin'er secretly searched Lu Ren Jia's room, discovered the antidote prescription for the poison, and spitefully poured out the medicine, sabotaging Lu Ren Jia's recovery.
Episode 12 Recap
Lu Ranran was summoned to the Empress's palace. After exchanging greetings, the Empress commended Lu Ranran for her contributions to the Crown Prince and Princess's good health. When offered a reward of tea and pastry, Lu Ranran, despite suspecting a trap, ate them under pressure. Soon after, she coughed up blood and collapsed.
The Empress, feigning concern, declared that Lu Ranran's poor health rendered her unfit to serve royalty and ordered her to recover at a residence outside the palace, effectively expelling her. Lu Ranran understood this was a deliberate attempt to remove her, but the Empress's attendant warned her that no one could protect her from this decision. As Lu Ranran was being forced out, Zhao Chenxuan burst in, demanding the attendants stop. The Crown Prince and Zhao Chenyao also arrived.
Zhao Chenyao, dramatically complaining of severe abdominal pain that he claimed only Lu Ranran could cure, stalled her expulsion by using the false excuse that she had already been appointed as a female physician. The Crown Prince then publicly supported this by stating he had already petitioned the Emperor to promote Lu Ranran as a female physician in recognition of her service in curing him, effectively making her expulsion impossible.
He dismissed the attendants and, after ensuring Zhao Chenyao's feigned illness had subsided, and noticing Lu Ranran's apparent concern for Zhao Chen Yi, the Crown Prince instructed Zhao Chen Yi to stay and take good care of Lu Ranran before leaving. The Crown Prince privately asked Zhao Chenyao if the imperial decree for Lu Ranran's promotion was real, to which Zhao Chenyao admitted it was a lie, a necessary tactic to protect her from the Empress.
The Crown Prince, though worried about the false decree, decided to support Lu Ranran by also pleading with their Father the next day. Meanwhile, Zhao Chenyao confronted the Empress, questioning her decision to expel Lu Ranran. The Empress angrily confirmed her intention, stating that Lu Ranran was useless to her and that Zhao Chenyao should distance himself. She rebuked him for faking an imperial decree, seeing it as behavior that would jeopardize his claim to the throne.
The Empress, determined to secure his position, reminded him of his status as the legitimate son of New Ming and warned him against being swayed by "love and beauty." She revealed her plan to arrange a meeting between him and General Li's second daughter at the upcoming New Year's Eve dinner. Zhao Chenyao, however, firmly declared that he desired to earn his position through his own merit and integrity, rejecting his mother's ruthless schemes and arranged marriage.
Under Zhao Chen Yi's watchful eye and the care of Physician Li and her Master, Lu Ranran slowly recovered from her illness and the poison residue. Physician Li prescribed medicine for her cold and promised a plan for the internal poison. Lu Ranran was later officially appointed as a female physician and returned to the Medicine Department. Zhao Chenxuan visited, bringing snacks and tonics, expressing regret that he couldn't do more to protect her when she was bullied.
Lu Ranran reassured him, encouraging him to look forward to his future. However, a brief moment of discomfort from Lu Ranran prompted her to send him away, though his favorability score showed a slight increase. Later, Lu Ranran checked her favorable impression scores: Zhao Chenxuan had 63 points, Zhao Chenyao 61, the Crown Prince 57, and Zhao Chen Yi remained at zero.
Zhao Chenyao then visited, apologizing for the poison, explaining it was the only way to ensure the Crown Prince received treatment, and informed her that the Emperor had officially decreed her appointment as a female physician, ensuring her safety in the palace. Lu Ranran, still reeling from the events, politely but coolly dismissed him, feigning fatigue. Soon after, Zhao Chen Yi came.
Unbeknownst to Lu Ranran, Zhao Chen Yi had been secretly caring for her during her illness, maintaining his distance out of concern. However, Lu Ranran expressed her hurt and disappointment, accusing him of only visiting now after she'd been sick for so long, and comparing herself to a pet he only pays attention to when he wants.
Zhao Chen Yi tried to defend himself, but Lu Ranran, weary and emotional, asked him to leave, implying he was too "valued" for her humble abode. Zhao Chen Yi left, sensing her lingering anger. Xin'er, while secretly searching Lu Ranran's room for useful evidence, had discovered Lu Ranran was poisoned and deliberately dumped her crucial antidote. Later, Lu Ranran discovered her crucial antidote was missing from its bottle.
Her senior brother, upon smelling the empty bottle, assured her he could re-create the medicine by identifying the ingredients and considering her pulse, greatly relieving her anxiety. He also delivered her new formal uniform, a unique honor as Master's only female student, and an invitation to the New Year's Eve banquet, cautioning her to stay close to the Crown Princess. Later, she consulted Qin Shou about Zhao Chen Yi's unchanging zero favorability score.
Qin Shou suggested she "cut her losses" and pursue another target, even recommending Zhao Chenxuan due to his high score. Lu Ranran adamantly refused, seeing Zhao Chenxuan as a younger brother. Despite the advice, Lu Ranran remained deeply saddened by Zhao Chen Yi's perceived indifference. That night, Lu Ranran attempted to visit Yun Zhu but was stopped by a guard, Ah Wu, who claimed Lord Xu had ordered him to watch over Yun Zhu.
Lu Ranran shrewdly gleaned from Ah Wu's evasive answers that Xu You Zheng might have feelings for Yun Zhu. Using the pretense that Lord Xu himself wanted her to visit Yun Zhu more often, she bypassed the guard. Inside, Yun Zhu revealed her eyes had been bothering her, making it difficult to see at night, possibly due to extensive embroidery or "night blindness." Lu Ranran, after examining Yun Zhu, suspected it might be a pre-programmed ailment in her game world.
Determined to help, Lu Ranran sought out her Master, asking him to teach her the advanced "Walnut Shell Glasses Moxibustion" for eye problems, despite not knowing basic moxibustion. Her Master, seeing her resolve, provided her with a prescription to follow and again reminded her about the upcoming New Year's Eve banquet. On New Year's Eve, Lu Ranran attended the banquet, accompanying the Crown Princess, who was delighted by her presence and cared for her well-being.
During the festivities, the Empress Dowager expressed her wish for Zhao Chenyao to have a grandchild, and the Empress spoke of her plans to match Zhao Chenyao with Ling Wei, General Li's second daughter, praising her qualities and noting the previous tragic death of General Li's eldest daughter. Lu Ranran observed the princes, particularly Zhao Chen Yi, while hoping his favorability score would finally change.
The Crown Prince, noticing Lu Ranran's attention, subtly informed her of Zhao Chen Yi's deep care for her, recounting how he had desperately carried her back to the palace, even physically intervening to protect her, and had secretly looked after her during her illness. After the Emperor, Empress, and Empress Dowager retired, the four princes shared drinks, fostering a scene of genuine camaraderie.
Lu Ranran, witnessing their brotherly bond, found herself feeling a sense of belonging in this world, contemplating letting go of her obsession with game mechanics and simply living her life here. Zhao Chen Yi excused himself, following Lu Ranran. However, he encountered Xin'er, who immediately deduced he was pursuing Lu Ranran. Xin'er fiercely criticized Lu Ranran, accusing her of being a manipulative and deceitful woman who played various princes for her own gain, even calling her a "serpent."
Zhao Chen Yi defended Lu Ranran, calling her innocent and kind, and accused Xin'er of being blinded by hatred. He reminded Xin'er of his promise to clear the Yu Family's injustice but chastised her for secretly poisoning the Crown Prince, revealing the Crown Prince was his actual brother.
Xin'er, however, pointed out the Crown Prince's association with Xu You Zheng and the Crown Princess's familial ties to Xu You Zheng, expressing her determination to make Xu You Zheng pay for his crimes, even if it meant doing it alone. Accusing Zhao Chen Yi of abandoning her and the Yu Family for his brother and Lu Ranran, a heartbroken Xin'er ran off. Just then, Lu Ranran arrived.
Zhao Chen Yi, no longer able to suppress his feelings, confessed his past to her. He revealed that after his beloved teacher's family was executed by Xu You Zheng, he had adopted the persona of a playboy, patiently waiting for an opportunity for revenge.
Her arrival had transformed his solitary life, but his fear of implicating her in his dangerous feud with Xu You Zheng had driven him to push her away, refuse her confession, and even force her towards the Crown Prince's side. He expressed deep regret for his actions and promised to protect her, care for her, and ensure no one would ever harm her again. He envisioned a peaceful life together in a fiefdom once he had cleared his teacher's name. Hearing his sincere explanation, Lu Ranran declared her willingness to believe in his true feelings once more.
Episode 13 Recap
Zhao Chen Yi expressed his intention to help the Yu family clear their names, after which he wished to leave the capital with Lu Ranran to live a peaceful life, a prospect she gladly accepted. He presented her with a beautiful gardenia hairpin, explaining that the flower symbolizes eternal love and commitment, a gift he had envisioned since he first placed a white flower in her hair.
As they shared a kiss, Zhao Chen Yao and Zhao Chenxuan observed them from a distance, both feeling a sense of disappointment. Later, Lu Ranran consulted Qin Shou about her mission progress. She learned that a "jealousy score" was now being tracked alongside favorable impression, and it could also contribute to her mission's success. Both Zhao Chen Yao and Zhao Chenxuan had gained jealousy points after witnessing her with Zhao Chen Yi.
Although Qin Shou suggested making them jealous could speed up her return to her own world, Lu Ranran, recalling unpleasant experiences from past game scenarios where characters became possessive or angry, decided against deliberately manipulating anyone's emotions, preferring to complete her mission honorably. Lu Ranran prepared some fish balls and minced shrimp. When Zhao Chen Yao visited, she offered him some, and he found them delicious, even suggesting she teach his attendant the recipe.
However, he then noticed the gardenia hairpin in her hair, snatched it away, and called it cheap and unsuitable for her. He pressed her on whether "Old Four" (Zhao Chen Yi) had given it to her and if she had feelings for him. Before she could properly respond, Zhao Chen Yao, visibly angered, stormed off. Lu Ranran then went to Zhao Chen Yi, who welcomed her warmly.
He playfully asked her to assess his calligraphy, then teased her about complimenting him. As he pretended to nap, Lu Ranran discovered his collection of drawings and poems. Among them were lines expressing a desire for their hearts to be united and a vow to protect her from harm, particularly from the feud with the Xu Family.
Moved by his words, she leaned in to kiss him, but he revealed he wasn't asleep, teasing her about trying a secret kiss before tenderly kissing her himself. She called him arrogant but was clearly pleased. That evening, Zhao Chenxuan was heavily intoxicated and heartbroken after witnessing the kiss between Lu Ranran and Zhao Chen Yi. He repeatedly asked if she had fallen in love with his Fourth Brother, lamenting that she had seemed happy with him too.
His attendant tried to coax him to rest, but Zhao Chenxuan climbed onto the palace rooftop in his despair. Concerned for his safety, the attendant summoned Lu Ranran. Upon her arrival, Zhao Chenxuan immediately jumped down, expressing how much he missed her. He confusedly confessed his affection and asked if this was "reciprocal love," to which Lu Ranran, playing along with his drunken state, gently urged him to go back and dream.
The next morning, Lu Ranran found Zhao Chenxuan suffering from a severe headache. She insisted he drink a hangover soup, refusing to be swayed by his pleas for stories. After reluctantly consuming it, he promised not to drink excessively again and then earnestly asked her not to get married "first." Lu Ranran, amused, assured him she had no plans for marriage and threatened to ignore him if he continued to drink like that.
He asked if she could visit him that night, but she replied she might not have time. Later, Lu Ranran visited Yun Zhu, who was straining her eyes with needlework. Lu Ranran brought her homemade "sandwiches" – a novel food that Yun Zhu enjoyed. Lu Ranran then performed a "walnut moxibustion" on Yun Zhu's eyes, explaining it was an eye protection secret from her master and fun to do.
Yun Zhu noted Lu Ranran's cheerful mood, and Lu Ranran confessed she was always happy when they were together. Meanwhile, with Zhao Chen Yi's birthday approaching, the Crown Prince brought up Zhao Chen Yi's request for a fief to the Emperor. The Emperor acknowledged Zhao Chen Yi's desire for a life outside court and his inability to resolve the ongoing feud with the Xu Family.
Given the Crown Prince's improving health, the Emperor felt it was time to grant Zhao Chen Yi freedom and then suggested it was time to consider his marriage. The Crown Prince mentioned that Zhao Chen Yi seemed to favor "Lu Ren Jia," praising her intelligence, popularity, and exceptional medical skills, despite her humble background. The Emperor, while recognizing her qualities, remarked on her low status but ultimately entrusted the Empress with handling the children's marriages.
A report then arrived announcing General Li's victorious return. Zhao Chen Yi waited in Lu Ranran's room. When she arrived, she offered him leftover sandwiches. Intrigued by the unusual food, he shared them with her on a boat. She explained their convenience for travel, and he playfully called her "full of crazy ideas." He then reminded her of a "kiss owed" from their last time there, and they shared another intimate moment on the boat.
As they parted, Zhao Chen Yi lingered, asking what delicious food she would make next and if she needed anything. Lu Ranran, internally wishing for his favorable impression score to increase, truthfully replied that she had everything she needed. The Empress, having learned that Zhao Chen Yi had rejected her chosen noblewomen and preferred Lu Ranran, spoke with the Emperor. She subtly expressed her disdain for Lu Ranran, calling her a "cheap maid."
She then suggested that Zhao Chen Yao, being older, should marry before Zhao Chen Yi and proposed General Li's second daughter, Li Lingwei, as a suitable match, highlighting her combat skills and shared history with Zhao Chen Yao. The Emperor approved. The Empress then arranged a meeting between Zhao Chen Yao and Li Lingwei. Li Lingwei, a martial artist who had served with her father on the frontier, made a strong impression on Zhao Chen Yao, who admired her strength.
The Empress urged Zhao Chen Yao to escort Li Lingwei around the imperial garden, overriding his attempts to decline. During their walk, they encountered Zhao Chen Yi. Zhao Chen Yao introduced Li Lingwei, and Zhao Chen Yi acknowledged having met her before. Zhao Chen Yao then promptly left Li Lingwei in Zhao Chen Yi's care. Li Lingwei, harboring a past resentment against Zhao Chen Yi due to her sister's infatuation and subsequent suffering because of him, was unimpressed.
After Zhao Chen Yi sent her a gift of fox fur, she instructed her attendant to investigate any girls he particularly cared about. Upon learning about "Lu Ren Jia," the physician girl, Li Lingwei tore up the gift, her determination to confront this new rival solidified. The Empress continued to champion Li Lingwei as a match for Zhao Chen Yao, even attempting to orchestrate a moment where Zhao Chen Yao would present Li Lingwei with a hairpin.
However, Zhao Chen Yao confirmed the hairpin wasn't for her, and Li Lingwei, with a pointed comment about its crude craftsmanship, implied his lack of sincerity. The Empress then presented Li Lingwei with an elaborate golden hairpin herself. Li Lingwei later expressed her disinterest in such delicate accessories, preferring a treasured sword, and asked where she could find Zhao Chen Yi.
Zhao Chen Yi, meanwhile, was discussing Lu Ranran with his attendant, musing about her "crazy ideas and mischief" while acknowledging her dedication. He compared her to "buried treasure" that was interesting to unearth. Li Lingwei soon appeared at the Lake Heart Pavilion where Zhao Chen Yi was taking tea. She engaged him in a confrontational conversation, criticizing his comfortable life and lack of remorse, especially compared to the harsh realities of the frontier.
When Zhao Chen Yi offered her anything she desired, Li Lingwei chillingly replied, "The life of the person you love." As Lu Ranran arrived to check on Zhao Chen Yi, offering to play shuttlecock, Li Lingwei deliberately tripped Lu Ranran. Zhao Chen Yi swiftly caught Lu Ranran in his arms, a scene Li Lingwei watched with cold intensity.
Episode 14 Recap
Li Lingwei confronted Zhao Chenyi, remarking on his leisurely life as she saw him playing with Lu Ranran. Zhao Chenyi introduced Lu Ranran by her alias, "Lu Ren Jia," a physician appointed by his royal father, emphasizing that she was the most important person to him.
Li Lingwei, the Second Young Miss from General Li's Manor, scoffed at the "vulgar" name and, noting Lu Ranran's exceptional medical skills, declared her intention to ask Her Majesty to reward this palace servant to her. Zhao Chenyi immediately refused, but when Li Lingwei insisted, he only told her there was no way. When Li Lingwei demanded he "beg" her, he refused.
Lu Ranran was annoyed by Zhao Chenyi's compliance, to which he vaguely replied that he had reasons he couldn't explain. Lu Ranran decided not to press the issue for the moment. Later, Li Lingwei, still wondering about Lu Ranran's background, entered Lu Ranran's room with her maid. She observed that the room was quite nice, confirming her suspicion that Zhao Chenyi cared deeply for Lu Ranran.
Her maid explained that Lu Ranran had cured the Crown Prince and helped the Crown Princess conceive, earning her special rewards from the Empress Dowager. Inside the room, Li Lingwei spotted a gold hairpin that looked familiar. She recognized it as the one Zhao Chenyao had shown her, and remembered him explicitly stating he wasn't giving it to her.
Realizing the hairpin was meant for Lu Ranran, Li Lingwei concluded that Zhao Chenyao liked Lu Ranran, which left her feeling uneasy. As Li Lingwei was about to leave, she encountered Lu Ranran. Lu Ranran noticed that one of Li Lingwei's earrings was missing and kindly retrieved it for her. Li Lingwei revealed that the earrings were a precious gift from her elder sister for her fifteenth birthday.
Seeing Li Lingwei's distress and hunger, Lu Ranran offered to cook for her. Li Lingwei was surprised but found the "sandwich" Lu Ranran prepared very delicious and easy to make, noting its practicality for soldiers on a march, much like her general father. During their meal, Li Lingwei returned the hairpin to Lu Ranran, confessing she had taken it from the room earlier.
Lu Ranran clarified that Zhao Chenyao had left it in her room and asked Li Lingwei to return it to him. Observing Li Lingwei's reaction, Lu Ranran correctly deduced that Li Lingwei had feelings for Zhao Chenyao. Li Lingwei admitted her long-standing affection for Zhao Chenyao.
In return, Lu Ranran, stating that she herself liked Zhao Chenyi and thus they weren't rivals, offered to teach Li Lingwei how to make Malatang, Zhao Chenyao's favorite dish, detailing all the ingredients and preparation steps. However, Li Lingwei then warned Lu Ranran that Zhao Chenyi was not a good person.
She recounted a tragic story from five years ago: Zhao Chenyi had incited her older sister, Li Caiwei, who was infatuated with him, to steal their father's military marching map. This act was meant to facilitate the assassination of Military Governor Xu You Zheng, whom Zhao Chenyi disliked. When their father discovered the betrayal, he severely punished Li Caiwei, who, consumed by guilt and shame, committed suicide.
Li Lingwei further asserted that on the day of her sister's death, Zhao Chenyi was drinking in a restaurant, seemingly unconcerned. Lu Ranran was deeply disturbed by this account but found it difficult to fully believe that Zhao Chenyi could be so cold and heartless. The next day, Lu Ranran approached Zhao Chenyi, who was drawing, and asked him if he would ever lie to her. Zhao Chenyi earnestly promised that he would never lie.
Despite his assurance, Lu Ranran remained conflicted internally, admitting to herself that she had truly fallen for him but still grappling with the accusations against him. Later, in the Medicine Department, Lu Ranran mused about the conflicting stories and Zhao Chenyi's unchanging zero favorability score in her system. She wondered if the game had a bug or if Zhao Chenyi truly felt nothing for her.
She prepared nourishing congee for the Crown Princess, who expressed her joy and anticipation for a healthy baby. The Crown Prince also shared his hopes and dreams for his future child, regardless of gender, and asked Lu Ranran not to speak of grim future prospects. Meanwhile, Xu Lang visited Yun Zhu in the Cold Palace, finding her secretly doing needlework by candlelight, despite her deteriorating eyesight. He was upset, fearing for her health.
Yun Zhu explained she needed an activity to alleviate her boredom. When Lu Ranran arrived, she asked Xu Lang about Li Caiwei. Xu Lang corroborated Li Lingwei's story, confirming that Li Caiwei had stolen a marching map for Zhao Chenyi, leading to Xu Lang losing a finger and nearly his life.
He also stated that Li Caiwei's suicide was to avoid punishment and protect her family, and that Zhao Chenyi showed no remorse, continuing to indulge in pleasures after her death. Yun Zhu, however, used Xu Lang as an example, stating that many people spoke negatively of him, but she didn't believe them. She advised Lu Ranran to seek a direct explanation from Zhao Chenyi, urging her to trust her own judgment.
Taking Yun Zhu's advice, Lu Ranran went to Zhao Chenyi. He was initially engrossed in painting but eventually turned to her. She directly asked him about his past with Li Caiwei. Zhao Chenyi expressed profound guilt and remorse for Li Caiwei, explaining that he couldn't reveal all the details but admitted he had underestimated his importance in her heart.
He also explained that his tolerance of Li Lingwei was an attempt to atone for the pain caused to her and her sister. He pleaded with Lu Ranran to trust him. After Lu Ranran left, Yun Zhu shared with Xu Lang her longing for her home in Wuling, a place of beautiful mountains and water, and Xu Lang promised to visit it someday. Despite Zhao Chenyi's heartfelt explanation, his favorability score remained at zero.
Frustrated, Lu Ranran consulted Qin Shou, asking if the system had a bug. Qin Shou confirmed there was no bug and reiterated his recommendation for her to change her target, reminding her that her ultimate goal was to go home. However, he offered a cryptic hint: "blow out the candles." Lu Ranran deduced this referred to a birthday celebration.
Determined to make a final effort, Lu Ranran prepared a special omurice dish called "Dispel the Clouds to See the Sun" for Zhao Chenyi's birthday. She resolved that if his favorability score remained zero after this, she would give up on him completely and return home. Zhao Chenyi loved the dish and thanked her for remembering his birthday, for her unwavering trust when he was framed, and for saving him from poisoning.
He expressed his wish to spend all future birthdays watching the stars with her. Later, he surprised her with Kongming lanterns, which she adored. As dawn approached, Zhao Chenyi formally proposed marriage, kneeling and promising to spend the rest of his life with her, to go wherever she went, and to accompany her in everything she wished to do. Lu Ranran, deeply moved, accepted his proposal. Yet, the persistent zero favorability score continued to puzzle and worry her.
She confided in Qin Shou once more, expressing her confusion that despite a proposal, the score remained unchanged. Qin Shou again suggested she choose a different route to achieve her goal of returning home. Lu Ranran confessed that she had unintentionally fallen for Zhao Chenyi and had poured her heart into pursuing him, vowing not to regret her decisions. She decided to wait until dawn; if the score was still zero, she would go home.
Meanwhile, Xu Lang discovered Yun Zhu was still diligently embroidering, endangering her vision. Yun Zhu revealed that she was making a coat as a birthday gift for him, having just found out it was his special day. Xu Lang was deeply touched, assuring her that her thoughtfulness was the most valuable gift. He wished for her health and happiness. The next morning, Lu Ranran saw her system's favorability score remained at zero.
She told Qin Shou that although she had grown to genuinely like Zhao Chenyi and put all her effort into their relationship, she had to leave. Zhao Chenyi then found her, excitedly telling her he would ask his royal father to approve their marriage after he finished his current tasks. He spoke of their future together in his Calm Refreshing Manor and showed her a list of wedding preparations from the Ministry of Rites.
However, seeing the unchanging zero on her system, Lu Ranran abruptly excused herself, claiming she had to deliver medicine to the Crown Prince. Zhao Chenyi was left bewildered by her sudden coolness, misinterpreting it as shyness. Lu Ranran, however, was in despair, questioning the game's difficulty and Zhao Chenyi's seemingly deep affection contradicted by the zero score. She decided it was time to put an end to her pursuit.
Episode 15 Recap
Lu Ranran decided it was time to clarify her relationship with Zhao Chen Yi, especially since her "good feelings" for him remained at zero. As they met, Zhao Chen Yi also indicated he had something to say. Lu Ranran began by telling him a story about two lovers who couldn't be together, hinting it was their own tale. Zhao Chen Yi expressed his dislike for the story. Lu Ranran then plainly stated that she could not marry him.
Confused and hurt, Zhao Chen Yi pressed her for a reason, promising to change if he had done something wrong. However, Lu Ranran insisted some things couldn't be changed, referencing the zero score in their relationship. She compared her situation to a moth drawn to a flame, having no choice, but unlike the moth, she had to survive and make it home.
She returned a hairpin to Zhao Chen Yi, declaring it was going back to its rightful owner and that they were not destined to be together. Although heartbroken, Lu Ranran left, believing it was better to save them both further pain. Devastated by Lu Ranran's words, Zhao Chen Yi returned to his quarters, ordering his servants away and lamenting her seemingly heartless rejection. He began drinking heavily, unable to comprehend her decision to end their relationship.
Li Lingwei observed Zhao Chen Yi's despair and was angered by his apparent indifference to her deceased sister while showing such profound care for Lu Ranran. Believing Lu Ranran had finally seen Zhao Chen Yi's true colors, Li Lingwei invited Lu Ranran to her room for a gathering, claiming she wished to apologize. Upon arriving at Li Lingwei's residence, Lu Ranran felt an uneasy sensation.
Li Lingwei repeatedly offered her wine, and after three cups, Lu Ranran felt herself growing dizzy. Li Lingwei then confessed she had poisoned Lu Ranran, intending for her to meet the same fate as her sister. She revealed they were in the very room where her sister had died in a fire, blaming Zhao Chen Yi for it all.
Li Lingwei then set the room ablaze and departed, sending a letter to Zhao Chen Yi informing him that Lu Ranran would soon be joining her sister. Trapped amidst the spreading flames, Lu Ranran feared she would surely die. Zhao Chen Yi rushed to the burning building after receiving Li Lingwei's ominous letter.
Despite Li Lingwei's attempts to stop him and her questioning why he would go to such extremes for Lu Ranran, Zhao Chen Yi pushed past her and plunged into the inferno. He emerged with Lu Ranran, much to Li Lingwei's shock and anger, who demanded an explanation for his actions compared to his indifference towards her sister. Zhao Chen Yi ignored her and immediately took Lu Ranran to the medical hall.
After ensuring Lu Ranran was not severely injured, only suffering from smoke inhalation, and would recover with rest and medicine, Zhao Chen Yi, despite his own wounds, quickly left. Li Lingwei confronted Zhao Chen Yi again, demanding to know why he saved Lu Ranran but allowed her sister to die. Zhao Chen Yi admitted he saved Lu Ranran because he loved her.
He then offered a heartfelt apology, confessing he never truly loved her sister and was wrong to use her, though he never intended for her to die. Li Lingwei, still grieving, accused him of being heartless and questioned what Lu Ranran possessed that her sister did not, claiming her sister had loved him enough to die for him.
Zhao Chen Yi conceded that he could never truly compensate for the pain he caused her and her sister, but earnestly pleaded with Li Lingwei to direct all her hatred towards him and spare the person he loved. Observing Zhao Chen Yi's raw pain, Li Lingwei reflected on the bitter irony that both her sister and Zhao Chen Yi were suffering from unrequited love. Meanwhile, Zhao Chenxuan visited Lu Ranran, who had recovered consciousness.
He cared for her, bringing her medicine and advising her against moving too much due to her injuries. Lu Ranran, however, still wondered if Zhao Chen Yi had come to see her. When Zhao Chenxuan confirmed he had not, she expressed a desire to confront Zhao Chen Yi, but Zhao Chenxuan gently restrained her, insisting she prioritize her recovery. After Zhao Chenxuan left, Zhao Chenyao arrived.
Though Lu Ranran was still slightly uncomfortable with him, he wordlessly offered her a tonic pill, which she recognized as a beneficial medicine, confirming his quiet care for her. Zhao Chenyao's aide later urged him to confess his feelings to Lu Ranran, but Zhao Chenyao admitted she seemed afraid of him, and he desired her genuine affection, not mere respect. Later, Li Lingwei came to visit Lu Ranran.
Lu Ranran initially felt a surge of fear, but Li Lingwei knelt and offered a sincere apology for attempting to harm her, admitting it was an act of revenge. Lu Ranran, in turn, told Li Lingwei that she was mistaken in her revenge because Zhao Chen Yi did not even like her, suggesting that both she and Li Lingwei's sister were essentially the same in his eyes.
When Li Lingwei offered Lu Ranran a life-saving medicine as further apology, Lu Ranran accepted it and thanked her. Li Lingwei asked why Lu Ranran wasn't exposing her, to which Lu Ranran replied that since her injuries were not severe, there was no need to reopen old wounds. Li Lingwei suspected Lu Ranran's leniency was for Zhao Chen Yi's sake, but Lu Ranran clarified that her relationship with him was over.
Li Lingwei then mused that despite their feelings for each other, there seemed to be a profound misunderstanding between Lu Ranran and Zhao Chen Yi. The Crown Prince's health began to deteriorate significantly, causing concern for Lu Ranran. That night, Lu Ranran waited for Zhao Chen Yi, hoping he would visit, but he never appeared. Watching him indulge in revelry, she grew disheartened, believing he truly did not care for her, even though she was deeply in love.
Unbeknownst to her, Zhao Chen Yi still harbored feelings for her but deliberately kept his distance. The Crown Prince then suffered a severe bout of coughing blood while reviewing memorials. This turn for the worse was orchestrated by the Empress, who, with the help of Xin'er, aimed to hasten the Crown Prince's demise. The Empress Dowager was greatly alarmed, and the imperial physician confirmed the Crown Prince had been poisoned.
The Emperor, enraged, tasked Zhao Chenyao with a thorough investigation to find the culprit. Zhao Chen Yi, learning of Xin'er's involvement and subsequent flight, told Zhao Chenxuan that he could not show favoritism if she was indeed guilty. Meanwhile, Xin'er attempted to poison Lu Ranran. Lu Ranran, realizing the danger, tried to escape, only to encounter Zhao Chenyao. She used this opportunity to evade Xin'er's attack, noting Xin'er's surprising martial arts prowess.
Just then, the Empress arrived and immediately accused Lu Ranran of poisoning the Crown Prince. Despite Lu Ranran's protests, the Empress ordered both her and Xin'er arrested, silencing Xin'er who seemed about to implicate Lu Ranran. The Empress also subtly threatened Xin'er by mentioning her younger brother, coercing her into cooperation. Upon hearing of Lu Ranran's arrest, Zhao Chenxuan immediately went to intercede with the Emperor.
However, the Emperor was furious, chastising Zhao Chenxuan for even daring to request the release of someone accused of treason. He angrily noted that Lu Ranran had been implicated in a previous poisoning incident concerning the Crown Prince and was now a suspect again, dismissing Zhao Chenxuan's pleas of her kindness as ridiculous coincidences. The Emperor declared that unless Zhao Chenxuan could provide irrefutable proof that Lu Ranran had been framed, he would not consider her release.
Episode 16 Recap
Lu Ranran found herself unjustly imprisoned, accused of harming the Crown Prince Zhao Chenyu at the instigation of Xin'er, orchestrated by the Empress. The game system alerted her to the successful completion of an "imprisonment" event, awarding her a red medicine bottle. She felt deeply wronged, questioning why she was arrested for something she didn't do and why imprisonment was considered an "event." When facing a "physical suffering task" during interrogation, Lu Ranran activated a duplicate given by the game.
While interrogators subjected her to torture with thick nails, she felt no pain, only needing to feign agony to appear injured. An official later announced that the Empress had ordered Lu Ranran to remain in jail for further interrogation. Upon hearing of Lu Ranran's arrest, Yun Zhu became distraught, refusing to believe Lu Ranran could have harmed the Crown Prince. At Yun Zhu's earnest request, Xu Lang agreed to visit Lu Ranran, hoping to calm Yun Zhu down.
Meanwhile, Zhao Chenxuan arrived at the prison, intending to break Lu Ranran out. However, Lu Ranran firmly refused, speaking harsh words to him, telling him to address her as "Your Highness, Eleventh Prince" to remind him that they are not on equal footing and that he would ruin her by helping her.
She knew that if he intervened, his life in the palace would be difficult, and she wished to spare him from her troubles, fearing that he would give it all up for her. She later regretted her sternness. Soon after Zhao Chenxuan's departure, Lu Ranran dreamt that Zhao Chen Yi appeared, saying he couldn't leave her in prison alone, much to her joy.
He wished to take her to Ji Mo City, his mother's hometown, expressing his desire to rescue her from prison regardless of the consequences. As they attempted to flee, they encountered the Emperor, who threatened to execute Zhao Chen Yi for his rebellious act. Lu Ranran then woke up, startled. Lying awake, Lu Ranran hoped the blanket on her bed had been brought by Zhao Chen Yi.
Through her game interface, she observed Zhao Chen Yi visiting Xin'er in the Imperial Prison. Xin'er, presenting a bamboo flute she claimed was a tool for communication between Xu You Zheng's associates, accused Lu Ranran of being a spy planted by Crown Prince Zhao Chenyao, asserting she found it in Lu Ranran's room.
Xin'er professed her unwavering loyalty to Zhao Chen Yi and her long-held affection for him, lamenting that if Lu Ranran had never appeared, she might have been his confidante, saying she was willing to risk her life to expose Lu Ranran, and even die to ensure Lu Ranran suffered for "hurting" Zhao Chen Yi. Although Zhao Chen Yi internally struggled, recalling his genuine feelings for Lu Ranran, Xin'er's "evidence" pushed him to believe Lu Ranran might have been using him.
When Zhao Chen Yi eventually saw Lu Ranran, she tried to reach out to him, but he looked at her with a cold, distant gaze before turning and leaving, shattering Lu Ranran's heart as she thought of their once sweet memories. Separately, Crown Prince Zhao Chenyu, whose health had been precarious, learned of Lu Ranran's imprisonment. Despite a heavy rain, he rushed to the Imperial Prison to plead her case, convinced of her innocence.
Lu Ranran, seeing his weakened state, urged him to leave due to the weather, but he refused, saying he knows what to do. However, the Crown Prince reassured her, promising to secure her release honorably, expressing confidence in his plan. Observing the Crown Prince's determined departure, Xu Lang noted his optimism, leading him to believe Lu Ranran would likely be released the next day.
The following day, the Crown Prince spoke with the Empress Dowager, explaining that Lu Ranran was his "fated person" and essential for his survival. He cited how his health stabilized in her presence and worsened in her absence, concluding she was the only one who could sustain his life. To ensure Lu Ranran's safety and the Crown Prince's well-being, the Empress Dowager issued an edict.
It decreed that Lu Ranran, for her loyalty and service, would be named the Crown Prince's concubine and reside in Always Inviting Palace. Lu Ranran, now Concubine Lu, reluctantly accepted the sudden arrangement. The game system then announced Lu Ranran had earned a "good person fate" achievement, which enabled her to upload a saved file. It also unlocked a "single ending path" mode. While reviewing her relationship scores, she noticed Zhao Chen Yi's heart points were at zero.
Soon after, Xu Lang visited Lu Ranran, subtly advising her to leave the palace, deeming it an unsuitable environment for her. Imperial Physician Sun also came to examine Lu Ranran. Despite her visible injuries, her pulse was stable (a result of using her duplicate). He congratulated her on her new title and praised the Crown Prince's character, particularly his courage in going out in the rain for her. While grateful, Lu Ranran expressed concern about the Crown Prince's ongoing illness.
Imperial Physician Sun then delivered a grave report: the Crown Prince's internal organs were severely damaged by poison, and combined with his exposure to the rain, his condition was now critical and beyond recovery, leaving him hanging by a thread. Shortly thereafter, Lu Ranran arrived at the palace to find a chaotic scene: the Crown Princess was in difficult labor, and the Crown Prince's health had taken a turn for the worse.
Lu Ranran chose to attend to the critically ill Crown Prince. As she arrived, the Crown Prince, struggling for breath, expressed his wish to hear his child's cry. He implored Lu Ranran to promise to care for his wife and unborn child if he did not survive, saying that he had intended for her to take care of them.
Despite Lu Ranran's desperate pleas for him to recover and fulfill his role as a father and husband, the Crown Prince passed away without hearing his child. Lu Ranran was overcome with grief, having always regarded him as an older brother. Soon after, the Crown Princess, upon learning of her husband's death, lost the will to live and passed away during childbirth, resulting in the loss of their unborn child.
The game system announced the conclusion of "Zhao Chen Yu's single ending path" and prompted Lu Ranran if she wished to leave the game. Still reeling from the tragic outcome, Lu Ranran frantically sought a way to avert these deaths. She asked Qin Shou about the Crown Princess's miscarriage, learning it was a "fixed misfortune" in the preset story.
She also discovered that a good luck talisman she had made for the Crown Prince had been ineffective because Zhao Chen Yi had never given it to him. Faced with the irreversible reality of the deaths, Lu Ranran chose not to exit the game, but instead decided to load a previous saved file and restart.
Episode 17 Recap
Lu Ranran, distressed by the outcome of the previous timeline where Zhao Chen Yi died, sought to reload a saved game. She asked the system if she had a chance to restart and return to an earlier point. Despite the system's warning that all conditions for leaving the game would need to be met again, Lu Ranran insisted, wanting to return to before Zhao Chen Yi's illness relapsed or he died.
However, the system could only restore a save from when she was first imprisoned. Accepting this, Lu Ranran found herself back in the Imperial Prison. She immediately requested to see Zhao Chenyao, stating she had an important report. Meanwhile, the Queen revealed her elaborate scheme to Zhao Chenyao, chastising him for nearly allowing "that girl" (Lu Ranran) to escape, which would have ruined their leverage against Crown Prince Zhao Chen Yi.
She asserted that Zhao Chen Yi, being a lowly servant's child, was not worthy of the same status as her son. The Queen admitted to involving Xin'er in her plans, describing her as a "good pawn" for securing the throne for Zhao Chenyao. She added that even if Xin'er were caught, the blame would only fall on the Eleventh Prince Zhao Chenxuan, not Zhao Chenyao. The Queen then noted Zhao Chenyao's affection for Lu Ranran.
Considering Lu Ranran a significant "variable" in their plans, the Queen suggested taking the opportunity to eliminate her. She advised Zhao Chenyao to focus on larger ambitions and consider Li Lingwei, whose strong family background and feelings for him made her a more suitable match. Despite his mother's words, Zhao Chenyao confessed his liking for Lu Ranran and pleaded with the Queen to spare her life.
Later, Zhao Chenxuan drugged the prison guards to obtain the keys, hoping to free Lu Ranran. However, Lu Ranran vehemently refused his help. She explained that she did not want to involve him further and that his actions were only complicating matters. She insisted on proving her innocence and leaving with her head held high, not as a fugitive. She told Zhao Chenxuan that he couldn't help her and urged him to leave.
Hurt by her words, Zhao Chenxuan questioned if his presence was truly making things worse, but ultimately complied, leaving with a heavy heart. Soon after, Zhao Chenyao arrived at the prison. Lu Ranran assured him she was physically fine and asked him to conduct a thorough investigation into Zhao Chen Yi's poisoning, believing Xin'er must have left clues. Zhao Chenyao promised to investigate.
Lu Ranran then requested that Zhao Chenyao convey a message to Zhao Chen Yi: to not exhaust himself helping her, as she would address his illness once released. She also asked him to ensure Zhao Chen Yi carried the blessing talisman she had previously arranged for him, to guarantee his safety. Zhao Chenyao agreed to deliver the message.
Lu Ranran reflected that with Crown Prince Zhao Chen Yi unwell and Zhao Chenxuan unable to assist, Zhao Chenyao was her only hope. Xin'er, also known as Wu Zi Xin and Lady Yu, was interrogated. To secure her brother Zi Kang's safety, she confessed to all her wrongdoings.
She admitted that she had sought revenge for the Yu family, entered the palace to harm high-ranking officials and Crown Prince Zhao Chen Yi, and was responsible for finding the poison and administering it. The Queen's envoy instructed Xin'er not to implicate Lu Ranran, much to Xin'er's indignation at Lu Ranran being released. Meanwhile, Zhao Chen Yi, concerned for Lu Ranran, headed to the Imperial Prison to rescue her.
He encountered Zhao Chenyao, who reassured him that Lu Ranran's innocence had been proven and that she would soon be released. Zhao Chenyao then escorted Zhao Chen Yi back to his palace to rest. As predicted, Lu Ranran was released from prison. Xin'er had taken full responsibility for all the crimes, including the schisandra fruit case. Zhao Chenyao was waiting outside the prison amidst the heavy rain and immediately offered Lu Ranran his umbrella.
Zhao Chen Yi also arrived at that moment, intending to greet Lu Ranran, but Zhao Chenyao had already reached her first. Zhao Chenyao then proposed to Lu Ranran, informing her that while he would marry Li Lingwei as his official consort next month, he had requested his father to appoint Lu Ranran as his concubine because she was the one he truly wanted. He promised her his heart and everything she desired, save for the consort title.
Lu Ranran accepted, believing this was the most pragmatic and least harmful path. The system then confirmed that she had successfully unlocked "Zhao Chen Yao's single ending path." The next day, Li Lingwei confronted Lu Ranran in the Pharmacy Department, demanding to know why she agreed to become Zhao Chenyao's concubine.
Lu Ranran assured Li Lingwei that she would not pose a threat to her relationship with Zhao Chenyao, stating she did not love Zhao Chenyao and would not remain by his side indefinitely. She promised that Zhao Chenyao would ultimately belong only to Li Lingwei. Li Lingwei, however, threatened to make Lu Ranran regret her choices if she didn't lead a peaceful life.
A few days later, the Crown Princess successfully gave birth to a healthy child, bringing immense joy to Zhao Chen Yi. He expressed relief that the blessing talisman had worked and that he would witness his child's growth. Lu Ranran, observing the loving family, decided that she could not pursue Zhao Chen Yi as he and his consort were deeply in love, and she wished for their continued happiness and safety.
Xu Lang later conveyed the news of Lu Ranran's impending marriage to Zhao Chenyao to Yun Zhu. Yun Zhu, who once harbored feelings for Zhao Chenyao, expressed her happiness for Lu Ranran. She had even made a wedding outfit for Lu Ranran, hoping she would try it on, reflecting that true affection meant respecting the other person's decisions rather than forcing them.
Yun Zhu also voiced her desire to leave the palace and live a carefree life, to which Xu Lang promised his assistance. Upon learning of Lu Ranran's marriage, Zhao Chenxuan was devastated. He spent his days drinking, recalling Lu Ranran's harsh words that he couldn't help her and her supposed desire for power. In a fit of rage, he burned his most cherished possessions, vowing to gain the power she sought.
Meanwhile, Li Lingwei confidently awaited Zhao Chenyao's visit that night, certain that as his concubine, Lu Ranran would be insignificant to him. Separately, Zhao Chen Yi also drowned his sorrows in alcohol, heartbroken by Lu Ranran's decision to marry Zhao Chenyao. His attendant noted he had been drinking for a month straight. Zhao Chen Yi lamented that Lu Ranran, whom he loved, accepted the role of Second Prince's concubine. He suspected she had been a spy, feigning affection for him.
Despite his profound sadness, he raised his drink, wishing Lu Ranran to achieve whatever she desired. Having fulfilled her mission, the system prompted Lu Ranran to exit the game. She felt a bittersweet sense of accomplishment, having reached this moment but experiencing reluctance to leave. As Lu Ranran began to remove her wedding attire, Li Lingwei suddenly appeared.
Li Lingwei accused Lu Ranran of seducing Zhao Chen Yi first and then marrying Zhao Chenyao purely for power, calling her a backstabber. She revealed the shocking truth: it was Zhao Chen Yi who had bravely rushed into the fire to save Lu Ranran, almost dying in the process. He had even confessed his love for Lu Ranran to Li Lingwei, asking her not to harm her.
Overwhelmed by this revelation, Lu Ranran's past memories with Zhao Chen Yi flooded her mind. She rushed to find him. She found Zhao Chen Yi still drinking and called out to him. Initially, he dismissed her presence, believing she was now married to Zhao Chenyao.
But Lu Ranran declared her unwavering love for him, stating that he was the first person she had ever liked in this world and that she had tried everything to secure a happy ending with him, even though he had never explicitly reciprocated her feelings. She expressed joy in finally knowing that he truly cared for her. As she prepared to leave the game world, Lu Ranran bravely told Zhao Chen Yi, "I love you." Moved by her heartfelt confession, Zhao Chen Yi, with tears in his eyes, finally confessed his love for her in return.
Episode 18 Recap
In a bittersweet moment, Li Lingwei discovered Zhao Chenyao in Lu Ranran's room. Though Li Lingwei felt a pang of jealousy, Zhao Chenyao, consumed by his unrequited love for Lu Ranran, confessed that he knew she did not reciprocate his feelings but still wished to cling to the illusion that she could be his. He later vehemently declared his possessiveness to Zhao Chen Yi, saying, "I know she doesn't love me! But she can only be mine!"
Soon after, he left, anticipating Lu Ranran would seek out Zhao Chen Yi. Lu Ranran and Zhao Chen Yi found solace in each other's embrace. With the game's exit portal opening, Lu Ranran knew her time to return home was imminent. She confessed her deep love for Zhao Chen Yi, promising to cherish the memory of their time together and asking him to remember a girl named Lu Ren Jia who loved him immensely.
Their tender farewell was abruptly interrupted when Zhao Chenyao appeared, witnessing their embrace. Enraged, he confronted Zhao Chen Yi, claiming Lu Ranran as his own and ordering an attack. In a desperate act of protection, Lu Ranran shielded Zhao Chen Yi and was tragically stabbed in the chest. Lu Ranran felt herself plummeting into a deep abyss. Zhao Chen Yi pursued her, but just before losing consciousness, Lu Ranran chose to return home.
She awoke in the modern world, realizing only three days had passed in real time. Back in the ancient world, everyone, except for Zhao Chen Yi, had lost all memory of Lu Ranran. Zhao Chen Yi was distraught, relentlessly searching for "Xiao Jia" and questioning everyone, but his pleas were met with blank stares and confusion, including from Zhao Chenyao, who denied knowing any "Xiao Jia."
Overwhelmed by grief and the unsettling lack of memory from others, Zhao Chen Yi desperately clung to a faint hope, vowing to find her wherever she might be. He discovered a letter from Lu Ranran addressed to Yun Zhu, expressing regret for her sudden departure. In the modern world, Lu Ranran went to the hospital to visit her friend Xiao Yun, only to learn from a doctor that Xiao Yun had been taken by her brother for treatment abroad.
Outside the hospital, Lu Ranran encountered Xu You Zheng, a man who strikingly resembled the game's NPC, Xu Lang. Xu You Zheng explained that he was Xiao Yun's doctor and her "Brother Xu," and that the game had been designed by Xiao Yun's real-life brother (Wang Chen Yi, who is Zhao Chen Yi in the game) and himself.
He revealed his intention to keep Xiao Yun in the game world, where she could see and be happy, as her real-life condition was incurable and painful. However, Wang Chen Yi vehemently opposed this, accusing Xu You Zheng of trapping them in the game and forcing Xiao Yun to give up on real-life treatment. Xu You Zheng admitted his actions were misguided, acknowledging that he had not respected Xiao Yun's choices.
He further clarified that Zhao Chen Yi in the game was actually Wang Chen Yi, a real person, not an NPC, and therefore could not generate a "favorable impression score." A virus had compromised the game, and he could no longer extract Xiao Yun and Wang Chen Yi, who risked losing consciousness if they remained in the game indefinitely. To wake them, they needed to find three "gold keys" hidden by Wang Chen Yi within the game.
With a renewed sense of purpose, Lu Ranran agreed to re-enter the game, with Xu You Zheng guiding her remotely, despite the risk of getting trapped. Their mission was to find Wang Chen Yi and the gold keys within a strict twelve-hour real-world time limit, equivalent to half a year in the game.
Three years later in the game world, Lu Ranran found herself in a new identity: Princess Luo Jia Ren of Wazi, entering New Ming as part of a marriage alliance. The Emperor of New Ming, after witnessing her beauty, decreed that Princess Jia Ren would marry the Eleventh Prince, Zhao Chenxuan, in three months. Unbeknownst to Lu Ranran, her bodyguard, Ji Huan, was a disguised Zhao Chen Yi, who felt an inexplicable familiarity with her.
The game system informed Lu Ranran that her previous character data had been deleted, so NPCs would no longer recognize her. This new identity, as a high-ranking princess, allowed her greater freedom to navigate the palace. Seeking information about Zhao Chen Yi, Lu Ranran tasked Ji Huan with finding the Fourth Prince.
Ji Huan, while surprised by her request, explained that the Fourth Prince had been exiled three years prior due to accusations of colluding with Wazi and had gone missing during his journey. He detailed the political landscape, including the Empress's deposition and the Second Prince's reduced influence, and revealed that the Crown Prince had passed away three years ago.
This news deeply saddened Lu Ranran, as it confirmed that despite her previous efforts to change the outcome, the Crown Prince's fate remained unaltered. Ji Huan, observing Lu Ranran's reactions and her striking resemblance to "Xiao Jia," decided to remain by her side, trusting his intuition that she held the key to his own predicament.
Driven by her previous life's memories and her new mission, Lu Ranran visited Imperial Physician Sun, her former master, presenting him with a rare medical book, "Nectar Summary," which she knew he deeply desired. Later, while sitting in a courtyard, Lu Ranran encountered the Crown Princess's young son. She kindly returned him to the Always Inviting Palace, where she met the Crown Princess.
Seizing the opportunity, Lu Ranran respectfully requested to pay her respects at the late Crown Prince's grave, acknowledging his past kindness to her. The Crown Princess granted her wish, and Lu Ranran solemnly visited the tablet of Zhao Chen Yu, the late Crown Prince.
Episode 19 Recap
Lu Ranran visited the late Crown Prince Zhao Chen Yu’s tablet, shedding tears as she remembered his kindness and lamented his untimely death. Later, while playing shuttlecock with the late Crown Prince Zhao Chen Yu's child, Zhao Chen Yi, disguised as Ji Huan, observed her, recalling a lively girl from his own fragmented memories. Passersby commented on Princess Jia Ren’s (Lu Ranran’s current identity) kindness and perceived closeness to the deceased Crown Prince.
Lu Ranran encountered Zhao Chenxuan, who had undergone a startling change in demeanor, becoming harsh and accusatory. He questioned her presence at the Always Inviting Palace, the late Crown Prince's residence, and warned her to mind her words and behavior as she would soon be his consort, suggesting she might be a spy. Lu Ranran was taken aback by his uncharacteristic aggression, noting how amicable he used to be.
Zhao Chenxuan further implied she was too well-informed about the princes and possibly had spies. Later, Lu Ranran intended to meet Xu Lang at the Cherished Orders Palace, but found it sealed. Ji Huan explained it was sealed three years prior after the Fourth Prince, Zhao Chen Yi, disappeared, making the Emperor furious.
Lu Ranran pretended disinterest, claiming there was nothing to see in the palace of a prince accused of colluding with enemies, but then quickly asserted that Zhao Chen Yi was framed. Ji Huan, growing suspicious, noted to himself that she seemed to know a lot. Lu Ranran then observed Zhao Chenyao and Li Lingwei enjoying malatang, a dish she knew well.
Li Lingwei mentioned they learned to make it from a "young lady cook" but couldn't recall her name, while Lu Ranran claimed it was a delicacy introduced to Wazi. Zhao Chenyao arrived, demonstrating concern for Li Lingwei. He protected her from accidentally burning herself with the hot malatang, impressing Lu Ranran, who reflected that without her, everyone seemed to continue on their predefined paths.
She lamented not being able to watch Zhao Chen Yi's livestream, as Qin Shou informed her that the Fourth Prince was considered missing in the game’s current plot. Needing to meet Xu Lang, Lu Ranran learned from Qin Shou that a secret underground path to Cherished Orders Palace could be found in the woodshed of the Huitong Posthouse. Upon discovering the tunnel entrance, she was surprised by Ji Huan.
She quickly concocted an excuse about looking for a lost ring and being curious about the woodshed, as there were no such structures in Wazi. Ji Huan questioned her story but let it go. Meanwhile, Zhao Chen Yi, in his true identity, was investigating. His guard informed him that the King of Wazi had given Princess Jia Ren a mysterious pouch before her departure.
Zhao Chen Yi recognized the pouch and speculated it might contain a list of those colluding with Wazi, which could prove his innocence. He also inquired about a Wazi medical book he’d asked his guard to check, "Nectar Summary," noting its significance and questioning why it was given to a New Ming Imperial Physician, reinforcing his suspicion of Princess Jia Ren. He ordered his men to search the station and all those from Wazi for the pouch.
Back at the posthouse, a matron arrived to take Lu Ranran’s measurements for her wedding clothes and announced that she would undergo five hours of princess consort etiquette training daily until the wedding, a request from Zhao Chenxuan himself, which Lu Ranran inwardly interpreted as an attempt to confine her.
When the matron tried to dismiss Ji Huan, Lu Ranran defended him, declaring that as a Wazi princess not yet married into New Ming, she would not be subjected to such restrictions. She then strategically sent Ji Huan to fetch a sour cake from Gentle Peach Pavilion, a specific shop with known long queues, to buy herself time. Using the secret passage, Lu Ranran entered Cherished Orders Palace, where she met Xu Lang.
She observed a wilted gardenia, recalling it as a birthday gift given to Zhao Chen Yi. Xu Lang, now disguised as a commoner to better approach Yun Zhu, explained that the "golden key" was not a physical item but three key terms: Hope, Sacrifice, and True Love.
These terms would light up as they progressed through related storylines, and once all three were activated, they could retrieve the golden key and bring Wang Chen Yi and Xiao Yun (Yun Zhu) out of the game. Xu Lang admitted he wasn't clear about the subsequent storylines, explaining that Wang Chen Yi created the game, and the plot had become somewhat random.
He confirmed Zhao Chen Yi was not following the game's original storyline, which he believed might indicate Wang Chen Yi's consciousness was awakening. With their mission clarified, Xu Lang left to find Yun Zhu, entrusting Lu Ranran with Wang Chen Yi's fate. As Xu Lang departed, Ji Huan, who had noticed Lu Ranran enter the sealed palace, returned and confronted her.
He had wondered to himself about the human sounds he heard inside the long-sealed Cherished Orders Palace, and then asked her why she was there. Lu Ranran again used the excuse of her lost ring, claiming it led her through a secret passage. Ji Huan revealed the place was Fourth Prince Zhao Chen Yi’s forbidden sleeping chamber, sealed by the Emperor for three years, and urged her not to touch anything, as he sensed bad omens.
Realizing Ji Huan hadn't gotten the sour cake, they left together to buy it. In the city, they found Gentle Peach Pavilion sealed, as it had been marked as a place of treason after Zhao Chen Yi’s conviction, leading to a fire and seizure. They then participated in a lantern riddle game.
Ji Huan successfully solved one riddle about the character "Zhuang," but was surprised when Lu Ranran easily solved another about a mirror, stating she read it in "The Stone Chronicles." Ji Huan was struck by a memory of a lady talking about the same book, intensifying his suspicion that she might be the girl from his past. He couldn't solve the third riddle, and they moved on to release sky lanterns.
Lu Ranran secretly wished to find Zhao Chen Yi and awaken his memories. Ji Huan, recalling his own proposal to "Xiao Jia" at this very spot, wished "Xiao Jia" was by his side, unaware that Lu Ranran was indeed "Xiao Jia." Later, Zhao Chen Yi's investigation revealed a map of the palace and travel routes between Wazi and New Ming in Princess Jia Ren's makeup case.
He suspected impure motives behind the peace mission, especially on the eve of the wedding. Though he doubted the Emperor would believe his findings without stronger proof, he ordered his guard to watch for changes and, crucially, to protect Princess Jia Ren if she was in danger. Lu Ranran received news that Zhao Chenxuan was ordered to leave the capital for Wuling. She immediately recognized Wuling as the place where Zhao Chen Yi went missing.
Zhao Chenxuan confirmed his departure, sternly instructing her to focus on needlework and etiquette in his absence and not to embarrass him. He accused her of going out the previous night with her guard. When she defended Ji Huan, Zhao Chenxuan, in a fit of possessive anger, confined the entire Huitong Posthouse until his return, declaring that no one would lead his future consort astray. Lu Ranran expressed her dismay at his drastic change.
Meanwhile, Xu Lang continued his mission in Wuling, caring for a blind Yun Zhu. He deliberately created opportunities to meet her, pretending to be a wounded traveler she had saved. He noticed many villagers, including a shop owner and her employees, suffering from coughs and fevers, leading him to suspect a wider illness. Xu Lang tried to buy Yun Zhu a ring, but realized he had given all his game perks (money) to Lu Ranran and couldn't afford it.
He worried about the developing illness in Wuling and hoped Lu Ranran would join him. Back at the posthouse, Zhao Chenxuan injured Lu Ranran. Ji Huan later expressed guilt for not protecting her and vowed to stay by her side. When the Imperial Physician prescribed medicine to prevent spasms from the rust on her hands, Lu Ranran recognized it as a guard against tetanus.
She was surprised that Ji Huan also knew about her preference for dried plums with medicine, making her wonder how he knew such personal details. Still perplexed by Zhao Chenxuan's changed personality, Lu Ranran asked Qin Shou about his biography. Qin Shou revealed that Zhao Chenxuan himself had started a fire at Clean and Pure Palace the evening Lu Ranran left three years prior.
Lu Ranran, still unable to locate Zhao Chen Yi, received a package from Xu Lang, informing her that he had found Yun Zhu in Wuling and urged her to come promptly. Lu Ranran, still hoping to soften Zhao Chenxuan, sent him a mechanical bird as a gift. However, her guards reported that Zhao Chenxuan had found their gesture "overly kind," suggesting they were hiding something, and angrily broke the bird's leg. Enraged by his cruel rejection of her thoughtful gift, Lu Ranran resolved to confront Zhao Chenxuan directly.
Episode 20 Recap
Princess Jia Ren confronted the Eleventh Prince (Zhao Chenxuan), asking why he had discarded the gift she gave him. The Eleventh Prince responded that he disliked ostentatious and unsubstantial crafts, though Princess Jia Ren insisted he usually enjoyed small, intricate trinkets. He informed her that he was preoccupied with a mission to Wu Ling, where typhoid fever had broken out, and their wedding might be postponed.
Upon hearing this, Princess Jia Ren declared her intention to go with him, claiming to be a female physician. The Eleventh Prince, dismissing her medical skills and status as a pampered princess, refused her request and advised her to prepare for their wedding instead of causing trouble. Undeterred, Princess Jia Ren determined she must go to Wu Ling. She acquired a disguise kit from Qin Shou, transforming her appearance.
As she attempted to join the Eleventh Prince's convoy, her disguise began to fail, and she was quickly recognized by the guards. Just as she faced being mistaken for a spy, Zhao Chenyi, disguised as her guard Ji Huan, intervened, saving her from potential beheading. He urged her to return, but Princess Jia Ren insisted on proceeding to Wu Ling. Seeing her resolve, Zhao Chenyi agreed to accompany her for her safety.
The Eleventh Prince (Zhao Chenxuan) soon learned that Princess Jia Ren had followed him to Wu Ling and confronted her upon her arrival, warning her against running around and risking infection, as he had no extra physicians to treat her. His aide, He Huan, sarcastically commented on the Princess's touching devotion. During their journey, Princess Jia Ren and Zhao Chenyi observed many people coughing and witnessed a person collapsing, further confirming the severity of the epidemic in Wu Ling.
Zhao Chenyi noted that the situation was more serious than the Eleventh Prince had anticipated. While walking, Princess Jia Ren encountered Yun Zhu, who was visually impaired. Soon after, Xu Lang arrived. Princess Jia Ren immediately recognized Xu Lang, and he, in turn, invited them to dinner as a gesture of gratitude since Princess Jia Ren had helped Yun Zhu. During the meal, Xu Lang explained that the typhoid fever had been ongoing for months, claiming dozens of lives.
Yun Zhu mentioned that Xu Lang had warned her to stay indoors, which had kept her safe. Princess Jia Ren then revealed her plan to visit the epidemic site the next day to find a solution. Later that evening, Princess Jia Ren, in her true identity as Lu Ranran, discussed the game with Xu Lang.
She playfully accused him of "cheating" by arranging for Yun Zhu (whom he called Wang Xiao Yun) to be in Wu Ling before he left the game, which allowed him to find her quickly. Xu Lang clarified that Yun Zhu was now an ordinary civilian with no memory of her past as a palace maid or of him (Xu Lang's in-game persona, Xu You Zheng).
They also discussed their top priority: finding Zhao Chenyi, noting that even with the golden key, they could not exit the game without him, especially now that they were trapped in Wu Ling. Xu Lang explained that as an ordinary player, he couldn't simply modify the game's programming without significant in-game time passing, reiterating their reliance on the Eleventh Prince's medical team.
Lu Ranran, drawing on her knowledge, mentioned studying a book called "Treatise on Febrile and Other Diseases" and suggested she might be able to devise a prescription. After their discussion, Lu Ranran brought a bowl of homemade noodles to Zhao Chenyi (as Ji Huan). He inquired if she knew Xu Lang, to which she replied it was their first meeting. Despite her answer, Lu Ranran felt a strong sense of familiarity with Zhao Chenyi (as Ji Huan).
The next day, Princess Jia Ren went to the epidemic site. She observed the widespread fever, coughs, and red spots, noting the disease's high contagiousness. She suggested implementing isolation and proper protective measures, such as face masks and sanitization. Just then, the Eleventh Prince (Zhao Chenxuan) arrived, chastising her for being there. However, a physician supported Princess Jia Ren's idea of isolation, drawing an analogy to sick horses needing separation.
The suggestion of using the Funeral Home for isolation was met with strong resistance from the fearful villagers, who believed it was a death sentence. To reassure them, Princess Jia Ren boldly offered to join them in isolation and treatment herself, asserting her belief that with masks, disinfection, and protection, the typhoid fever was treatable and not a terminal illness. The Eleventh Prince, witnessing her courage, reluctantly agreed to her plan.
Zhao Chenyi (as Ji Huan) immediately declared he would accompany Princess Jia Ren, stating his duty as her guard. Together, they went to the Funeral Home. Princess Jia Ren began boiling medicine for the patients, with Zhao Chenyi assisting her. As she administered medicine, a patient accidentally pulled off her mask. Zhao Chenyi suddenly felt dizzy. Princess Jia Ren quickly examined him, but he urged her to keep her distance, fearing she might be infected.
She, however, insisted on staying by his side. As Zhao Chenyi rested, he spoke of a girl he once knew, who was gentle, kind, and loved studying medicine, reminding him of Princess Jia Ren. He recounted how this girl had once said she liked him but then disappeared, leaving him to feel she had "wrapped him around her fingers." He expressed his desire to find her to understand why she had left.
Princess Jia Ren mused that perhaps the girl had "reasons that couldn't be revealed, as told in novels." Zhao Chenyi was surprised by her reference to "novels" from New Ming, or storytellers, noting that she, like the girl he remembered (Lu Ranran), also enjoyed such stories. Princess Jia Ren (Lu Ranran), in turn, felt a strong sense of familiarity with Zhao Chenyi while caring for him.
The next morning, Zhao Chenyi grew worried when he learned Princess Jia Ren had gone alone to the mountain to gather medicinal herbs. Disregarding his own unwellness, he hurried to find her. On the mountain, Princess Jia Ren discovered red spots on her skin, confirming her fear of contracting typhoid fever. She warned Zhao Chenyi to stay away, but he, without hesitation, embraced her and carried her back.
Zhao Chenyi diligently cared for the ailing Princess Jia Ren, who endured bitter medicine. Each time, he offered her a plum afterward, staying steadfastly by her side. Although her fever gradually subsided, Zhao Chenyi remained deeply concerned. Princess Jia Ren, wanting to accelerate a cure, developed a new prescription from the "Treatise on Febrile and Other Diseases" and announced her intention to test it on herself. Zhao Chenyi strongly objected.
Feigning dizziness, she sent him to retrieve "Sun's Medical Cases" from Imperial Physician Li. While Zhao Chenyi was gone, she secretly took the new medicine. When Zhao Chenyi returned with the book, Imperial Physician Li remarked on Princess Jia Ren's determination and wondered how she knew about "Sun's Medical Cases," a book primarily known to his junior sister.
Zhao Chenyi learned from Imperial Physician Li that he had a smart junior sister, but he could not recall her face or her current whereabouts, only remembering that his master had shared the medical book with her and him. Zhao Chenyi then took the medical book to Princess Jia Ren, who, despite still recovering, poured over it. Zhao Chenyi attentively stayed by her side, occasionally playing music to help her relax when she dozed off.
Meanwhile, the Eleventh Prince (Zhao Chenxuan), upon learning of Princess Jia Ren’s illness, became very worried. As he headed to see her, he encountered other villagers who had fainted. He promptly took them to the Funeral Home, where Princess Jia Ren was treating patients, and requested more medical supplies for the escalating number of cases.
Episode 21 Recap
Yun Zhu and Xu Lang went to deliver medicated meals and other supplies to the villagers. One villager, Brother Niu, was upset, claiming the promises of a cure were lies and nearly pushed Yun Zhu. Xu Lang became angry and confronted him, but Yun Zhu intervened, explaining Brother Niu's anxiety stemmed from his loved one's illness. They offered face masks and an information booklet, which helped calm the villagers.
As they left, Yun Zhu sprained her ankle, and Xu Lang gently carried her, assuring her that her desire to help others was brave and appreciated. Meanwhile, the Green Lotus Sect arrived, distributing grains and burning medicinal incense, surprising Lu Ranran as they were generally perceived as a bad organization. However, their efforts in Wu Ling led her to believe they possessed a certain benevolence despite their Jianghu background.
Zhao Chen Yi, who was disguised as Ji Huan, felt a sense of familiarity with some of the Green Lotus Sect members. Xu Lang and Lu Ranran discussed how they should not fall behind in their efforts to help the sick. Shortly after the Green Lotus Sect left, Zhao Chen Yi (as Ji Huan) called out to a member named Ah Wu.
He handed Ah Wu a bamboo flute that his younger brother, Ah Wen, had given him, revealing that Ah Wen had been harmed by Xu Lang. Zhao Chen Yi explained that despite Ah Wu's service, Xu You Zheng had relentlessly pursued Ah Wu, implying he was trying to silence him, and Zhao Chen Yi wanted to recruit Ah Wu for his own purposes.
Zhao Chen Yi asked Ah Wu to return to New Ming to complete a task, promising that completing it would reveal the truth of his words. Later, Lu Ranran sought out Zhao Chen Yi (as Ji Huan). She stumbled, and he quickly steadied her, a familiar feeling washing over her. She tried to remove his mask, but he refused, stating he would only remove it for the woman he loved.
Meanwhile, Xu Lang encountered Zhao Chen Yi (as Ji Huan), who had briefly returned after entrusting Yun Zhu to rest. Xu Lang reminded Zhao Chen Yi that the pandemic was merely a game scenario, and his main goal was to find the real Zhao Chen Yi, retrieve the golden key, and leave.
However, Zhao Chen Yi insisted that in his eyes, the patients were real, living people, and he could not simply abandon them, holding firm to his principles as a doctor. He also stated that he had already figured out a medical prescription and would take on the task of curing the sick. Lu Ranran, now known as Princess Jia Ren, tirelessly worked to cure the typhoid fever epidemic.
She developed a new prescription and introduced daily exercises, specifically New Ming's five-animal mimic boxing, which she claimed was popular in Wazi. Zhao Chenxuan, the Eleventh Prince, found her methods unusual but noted their effectiveness. When medicine supplies dwindled, Lu Ranran called upon Qin Shou for help. Qin Shou readily agreed, saying that "treating the sick and saving lives is a big deal!"
He swiftly delivered ten times the requested herbs, making Lu Ranran realize she had accessed a "cheat program." Zhao Chenxuan then met with Lu Ranran, visibly displeased by Zhao Chen Yi's constant presence by her side. Zhao Chenxuan praised Lu Ranran for her contributions and announced that Imperial Father was happy and had promised to officiate their wedding upon their return.
Lu Ranran, however, remained focused on the epidemic, presenting her prescription for prevention and control, urging him to make it widely available. Zhao Chenxuan agreed but insisted that Lu Ranran stay in his residence to rest. Zhao Chen Yi (as Ji Huan) attempted to object, but Lu Ranran stopped him. Zhao Chenxuan then ordered his men to escort Zhao Chen Yi away, threatening military discipline if he reappeared.
That night, Lu Ranran, staying at Zhao Chenxuan's residence, found herself unable to sleep and observed Zhao Chenxuan, feeling a deep sadness as she reflected on his lost innocence. Using her "Peek-a-Dream" program feature, she entered his dream, witnessing a painful memory: a fire in the Clean and Pure Palace during the 13th year of the Rong De reign, the same year she had left for Wazi to marry the Second Prince.
She saw Zhao Chenxuan setting the fire himself, destroying his cherished inventions, declaring them useless. Lu Ranran realized his current disposition and past trauma were inadvertently linked to her departure. In her mind, she apologized for the harsh words she had once spoken, realizing the profound impact they had on him. Upon waking, Zhao Chenxuan discovered a blanket draped over him and immediately suspected Lu Ranran's thoughtful gesture.
He inquired about Princess Jia Ren, learning she had returned with Ji Huan to continue researching medicine. Zhao Chenxuan, though still vexed by their independent actions, conceded that her "bizarre ideas" were proving incredibly useful in combating the epidemic. Thanks to Lu Ranran's tireless efforts and innovative treatments, the villagers' conditions greatly improved. Xu Lang confirmed many had recovered, and Yun Zhu expressed her contentment in helping others, finding joy in her life despite her blindness.
The grateful villagers showered Lu Ranran with thanks, and she experienced an unparalleled sense of accomplishment. With the epidemic under control, Lu Ranran discovered three new keywords for the golden key: "Hope, Sacrifice, True Love." She understood that "Hope" had been lit by curing the typhoid, but she pondered the meanings of "Sacrifice" and whether "True Love" referred to Zhao Chen Yi.
The villagers, expressing their profound gratitude, gathered to see off Lu Ranran and Zhao Chenxuan, offering small gifts of honey and sending them off with heartfelt farewells. As they traveled, Lu Ranran asked Zhao Chenxuan where they were going, refusing to return to New Ming for a wedding she did not want. He told her they were going to "Ji Mo City," his dream city, and she would understand once they arrived.
When their carriage broke down, Zhao Chenxuan called her "Xiao Jia," a name he had heard a girl from Cloud Hall use. He revealed he had been searching for a girl in his dreams, one in a green dress, whose name and existence he questioned until Lu Ranran appeared, sharing her intelligence, medical skills, and kindness. He wondered if she was the girl from his dreams and suggested they could be a perfect couple.
He offered to make barbecue for her, but his attempt resulted in burnt meat. Lu Ranran took over, skillfully preparing the meal, explaining that barbecue was a Wazi specialty. While they were eating, Zhao Chen Yi (as Ji Huan) suddenly appeared, attacking Zhao Chenxuan and abducting Lu Ranran. Confused and distressed, Lu Ranran questioned why Ji Huan had harmed Zhao Chenxuan.
Zhao Chen Yi confessed that he refused to have any more regrets and could not bear to see the woman he loved marry another man. He spoke of his search for a girl from his memories, named Lu Ren Jia, who shared all of Lu Ranran's qualities, making him question if she was real. Lu Ranran then confirmed her identity as Lu Ren Jia. Overwhelmed, Zhao Chen Yi removed his mask, revealing his true face.
They embraced, expressing how much they had missed each other. Zhao Chen Yi explained that Xu You Zheng had falsely accused him of treason, leading him to escape and adopt the identity of Ji Huan to investigate the political marriage and report to his father. Their reunion was cut short as Zhao Chenxuan's troops swiftly arrived to seize Princess Jia Ren.
Episode 22 Recap
Lu Ranran and Zhao Chen Yi found themselves surrounded by Zhao Chenxuan's men as they attempted to leave. Zhao Chen Yi was injured by an arrow while protecting Lu Ranran during their escape. They sought refuge in a dilapidated temple, where Lu Ranran, with the help of Zhao Chen Yi's subordinate Xiao Kang, gathered medicinal herbs. Another subordinate, Xiao Bao, then helped remove the arrow, and Lu Ranran treated his wound.
Zhao Chen Yi, fearing Lu Ranran would leave him again, asked her not to, and she promised to stay by his side. Zhao Chenxuan's troops eventually caught up with them again. Zhao Chenxuan confronted them, accusing Zhao Chen Yi of defecting to Wazi. Lu Ranran firmly declared she would not return with Zhao Chenxuan. During this confrontation, Zhao Chenxuan fatally stabbed Zhao Chen Yi's subordinate, Xiao Kang.
Zhao Chen Yi cradled Xiao Kang, lamenting his failure to protect Xiao Kang, to whom he had promised Xin'er (Xiao Kang's sister) he would. With his dying breath, Xiao Kang urged Zhao Chen Yi to release his burden of hatred and pursue his own happiness. Witnessing Xiao Kang's sacrifice, Lu Ranran began to understand its profound meaning. Zhao Chenxuan's men then took Lu Ranran away. Zhao Chenxuan's old leg injury flared up, causing him pain, but he refused treatment.
Lu Ranran learned that Zhao Chenxuan had been diligently fighting bandits, which made her feel he had matured. To help him, she created a wheelchair, making his movement much easier despite his injury. Zhao Chenxuan took Lu Ranran to a riverside spot, reminiscing about his mother's hometown, Ji Mo City, and a special wine called Peach Blossom Brew, meant to be shared with someone significant.
He shared his childhood longing to bring his beloved one to Ji Mo City, where his parents had sworn their love, implying that he had brought her there as that significant person. Lu Ranran realized how pure he once was, regretting if her past actions had changed him. However, she firmly rejected Zhao Chenxuan, explaining that her heart belonged to Zhao Chen Yi, with whom she had endured many hardships, and they had promised to return home together.
Zhao Chenxuan, asserting her role as a Wazi princess in a marriage alliance, ordered his men to take her back. Confined to a room in Huitong Posthouse, Lu Ranran was determined to find Zhao Chen Yi, even attempting to jump out a window. Her Wazi subordinates intervened, revealing that her king had orchestrated a fake marriage alliance to assassinate Zhao Chenxuan during the wedding. The plan involved poisoning Zhao Chenxuan's wine and providing Lu Ranran with an escape route.
Lu Ranran vehemently opposed the plot, arguing that such an act would only worsen relations between New Ming and Wazi, and she refused to cause any more harm. Believing Lu Ranran was too soft-hearted, her subordinate, Shui Xin, knocked her unconscious to ensure the mission proceeded. Meanwhile, the Emperor informed Zhao Chenxuan that his wedding with Lu Ranran was scheduled for the next day.
Zhao Chenxuan confidently assured his father that everything was under his control, hinting at his awareness of the plot. On the wedding day, with Lu Ranran still locked away, someone impersonated her during the ceremony. Lu Ranran managed to escape her confinement and rushed to the ceremony just as Zhao Chenxuan was about to drink the poisoned wine. She burst in, warning him not to drink it. This caused a commotion, and Zhao Chenxuan's men attacked Lu Ranran's Wazi guards.
Lu Ranran's loyal subordinates, Shui Ming and Shui Xin, were killed in the ensuing conflict, with Shui Xin taking her own life with poison rather than being captured. Witnessing these events, Lu Ranran confronted Zhao Chenxuan, realizing how much he had changed and become a ruthless schemer. She acknowledged that the naive youth she once knew had truly "grown up" in a chilling way.
Soon after, a report arrived that Lu Ranran's elder brother's Wazi army had invaded New Ming's borders. The Emperor, enraged, initially hesitated but then entrusted Zhao Chenxuan with leading the troops to utterly defeat Wazi. Lu Ranran was thrown into the imperial prison. Refusing to eat, she was visited by Zhao Chenxuan. He offered to protect her and let her go if she would submit to being his consort.
Lu Ranran defiantly refused, stating that even death would not make her yield to him, and her heart belonged only to Zhao Chen Yi. She passionately defended Zhao Chen Yi, explaining that he had infiltrated Wazi disguised as Ji Huan to uncover the true traitor, never betraying New Ming. Zhao Chenxuan dismissed her words, emphasizing his newfound power and his intention to crush Wazi.
He vowed to return as a revered hero, confident that he could then easily dominate a defeated princess. In a separate conversation with his Second Brother at Tai Ji Palace, Zhao Chenxuan reminisced about his past, admitting to becoming jealous of Zhao Chen Yi and vaguely wanting to take back something important, though he couldn't recall what it was.
During her confrontation, Lu Ranran realized that Zhao Chenxuan had deliberately allowed the assassination plot to unfold to gain the Emperor's trust and command of the army. She scorned him for his manipulative schemes, asserting that such a person could never earn her love. Zhao Chenxuan, however, revealed that Zhao Chen Yi was still alive, suggesting this was all part of his elaborate plan.
Episode 23 Recap
Zhao Chenxuan, having been defeated, disclosed that Zhao Chen Yi was the one who initially alerted him to the complexities of the Wazi marriage plan, even providing evidence of a suspicious map in Princess Jia Ren's possession. Zhao Chen Yi's ultimate goal in revealing everything was to escape with Lu Ranran. Before Lu Ranran left, Zhao Chenxuan handed her a drawing collection, the last thing Zhao Chen Yi had asked of him.
He explained that this collection, which had been deemed evidence for Zhao Chen Yi's execution, was all his brother desired despite Zhao Chenxuan gaining immense power through his help. Looking through the collection, Lu Ranran recognized the name "Xiao Jia." Zhao Chenxuan then shared a story Zhao Chen Yi had told him about a spirited clothing maid named Xiao Jia, who possessed a mysterious ability to make everyone forget her, including him, and she had simply vanished.
Lu Ranran, still holding the drawing collection, wondered why Xiao Jia would want to be forgotten. Zhao Chenxuan informed Lu Ranran that due to the ongoing war between Wazi and New Ming and her alleged plot to assassinate the Emperor as the Eleventh Consort, she could not officially leave. Instead, he would spread news that the Eleventh Consort died in prison, thereby facilitating her escape. He told her this was his chance to help her.
When Lu Ranran addressed him as "Eleventh Prince," he affectionately reminded her to call him "Eleven" when they were alone, which she then did as she thanked him before departing. He confirmed that the Fourth Prince was waiting for her. Lu Ranran was safely escorted out of the city, where Zhao Chen Yi had been patiently waiting.
Upon seeing each other, their long-suppressed emotions spilled forth, and they embraced and shared a passionate kiss under the moonlight, both expressing relief at finally being reunited after enduring so much. Zhao Chen Yi recited a romantic poem, and Lu Ranran told him she had finally found him and would always be by his side, acknowledging his suffering.
Zhao Chen Yi then outlined his desire for a peaceful future with Lu Ranran, far from political strife, where they could live a quiet life of reading and tea. He also mentioned his desire to quickly resolve his issues with Xu You Zheng, so they could finally enjoy a peaceful life together. Their subordinate, Qin Shou, affirmed his loyalty, stating he enjoyed being with them.
Zhao Chen Yi then led Lu Ranran to a serene, secluded spot, revealing it was where his two old friends rested. He placed a purse at a memorial dedicated to Yu Zi Xin and Yu Zi Kang, expressing satisfaction that the siblings were finally reunited and vowing to seek justice for the Yu family.
He apologized for his past naivety, admitting his plan to send her to his brother for protection was flawed and had caused harm to Xin'er and Kang'er. Lu Ranran, recalling her own resentment in prison, forgave him, recognizing how dreamlike their reconciliation felt.
They found lodging at an inn, where Zhao Chen Yi charmingly insisted on securing only one room for himself and Lu Ranran, introducing her as his wife, much to the chagrin of Qin Shou, who was left to sleep in the carriage. Inside the room, Lu Ranran expressed self-consciousness about her appearance after their journey. She prepared to bathe, playfully warning Zhao Chen Yi not to peek. Zhao Chen Yi, however, suggested they bathe together, which she declined.
While Lu Ranran was enjoying her bath, Qin Shou burst into the room, causing her to scream. Zhao Chen Yi rushed in, concerned, and Lu Ranran invented a story about a large bug to cover her embarrassment. After Zhao Chen Yi left to bathe, Qin Shou delivered a message to Lu Ranran from "a good friend." The message, seemingly from Xu Lang, was a stark reminder: "Lu Ran Ran, do you know what you've been doing lately?
Let me remind you. Now just solve the true love to complete the task. Only four hours are left in real time. If this continues, Wang Chen Yi and Xiao Yun will be in real danger. Sober up!" Lu Ranran worried about the dwindling time and the next "keyword" for true love.
Later, while out shopping, Lu Ranran joked about Zhao Chen Yi being stingy for not getting Qin Shou a room, but he reassured her he had enough to provide for her lavishly. Zhao Chen Yi bought a beautiful hair clasp for her. As Lu Ranran released a river lantern, Zhao Chen Yi embraced her, recalling her past disappearance in a shallow lake and expressing his fear of losing her again. She promised never to leave him alone again.
That night, back at the inn, Qin Shou managed to get his own room. Lu Ranran and Zhao Chen Yi were in their shared room. Zhao Chen Yi playfully suggested they act like a married couple, but assured her he would not "cross the boundary" until they were officially wed. Lu Ranran internally questioned if their lack of marital intimacy was hindering her "True Love" quest, and playfully suggested they "could" cross the boundary a little.
Zhao Chen Yi, however, preferred to simply gaze at her after their long separation, admitting he both missed and hated her for the perceived abandonment. He confessed that everything reminded him of her. Lu Ranran vowed never to cause him sadness again, and he asked her to make it up to him, embracing her tightly. Lu Ranran woke up to find Zhao Chen Yi gone and feared he had left.
He soon returned, having gone to have a rabbit lantern, one she had admired but couldn't find, specially made for her from his memory. He told her he wanted to fulfill her every wish and reminded her of the meaning behind a poem related to a silk handkerchief, symbolizing a plain and deep longing. He then embraced her, pleading with her never to leave him again.
The next morning, Lu Ranran discovered that Qin Shou had acquired numerous luxury items, including a satin mattress, wooden floor carpet, incense, and desserts. Qin Shou explained that Zhao Chen Yi instructed him to buy everything Lu Ranran had mentioned, ensuring she wouldn't suffer any hardship on their journey. Lu Ranran playfully chastised Zhao Chen Yi for his "petty" extravagance, but he assured her he took her every word seriously.
As they departed, a group of black-clad men intercepted them, identifying themselves as sent by the Wazi King to retrieve "Princess Jia Ren." Lu Ranran, realizing they were sent by her brother, insisted that Zhao Chen Yi and his subordinate, whom she referred to as her "brothers from New Ming," must accompany her as they were instrumental in her escape from New Ming. The Wazi men agreed to treat them as honored guests.
Back in Wazi, the King and his advisor, Mister Shi, discussed the ongoing war with New Ming. They were perplexed by the New Ming Eleventh Prince's strategic brilliance, which had caused their forces to retreat. A report arrived, announcing the return of Princess Jia Ren, accompanied by New Ming's Fourth Prince. Lu Ranran joyfully reunited with her brother, the Wazi King, who expressed relief at her safe return, having heard rumors of her death in New Ming's prison.
Lu Ranran introduced Zhao Chen Yi and his subordinate as her "brothers from New Ming" and saviors, and requested they be allowed to stay, as they could no longer return to New Ming. The King agreed, welcoming them as Wazi's benefactors and honored guests. Afterward, Mister Shi expressed his apprehension to the King about harboring a New Ming royal during wartime, especially one so close to Princess Jia Ren.
He suspected the person was Fourth Prince Zhao Chen Yi, having been recognized by a former subordinate. Mister Shi reasoned that if this was indeed the Fourth Prince, his involvement in rescuing Princess Jia Ren alongside the Eleventh Prince indicated Lu Ranran's immense importance to them. He proposed a plan to exploit this by publicly marrying Princess Jia Ren to the Fourth Prince at an upcoming banquet, using him to undermine the morale of New Ming's troops.
At the banquet, the King toasted his generals and celebrated Lu Ranran's safe return. He recounted Lu Ranran's past sacrifice in agreeing to a political marriage for Wazi's cause and then announced his decision to marry her to Zhao Chen Yi, praising Zhao Chen Yi's intelligence and courage. Though Lu Ranran initially expressed surprise, her brother assured her he knew her heart, having seen her glances at Zhao Chen Yi all evening.
Lu Ranran, secretly hoping this marriage would unlock the "True Love" clue and save "Wang Chen Yi" and "Xiao Yun," readily agreed. Zhao Chen Yi, however, sensed a trap, suspecting the Wazi leaders already knew his true identity and planned to use his marriage to Princess Jia Ren as leverage to destabilize New Ming's loyalty. That night, Zhao Chen Yi, accompanied by his subordinate, set out to investigate Wazi's war room.
They overheard the King and Mister Shi discussing New Ming's troop movements and a "secret weapon." They revealed that Xu You Zheng, the Prison Master in New Ming, had sold 800 hand cannons to Wazi. Mister Shi suggested using the Fourth Prince as a bargaining chip with the Eleventh Prince: if the Eleventh Prince conceded, Wazi would gain Ju Yong Pass without battle; if not, they could test their new hand cannons.
Zhao Chen Yi's subordinate attempted to relay this critical information to Zhao Chenxuan, but the noise at the door alerted the Wazi guards. Zhao Chen Yi was apprehended by the King, who dismissed his excuse of admiring the night sky and asserted his knowledge of Zhao Chen Yi's true identity as the Fourth Prince of New Ming. Meanwhile, Lu Ranran, feeling an ominous unease, heard the commotion.
A guard initially dismissed it as a drill, but another subordinate revealed that the "sir from New Ming" was caught spying on the King. Despite attempts to detain her, Lu Ranran, with the unexpected assistance of Ah Wu—who recognized her as Princess Jia Ren and knew she had burned the Profound Literature Pavilion, information presumably from Zhao Chen Yi—rushed to find Zhao Chen Yi, having learned he was framed for discovering the King's treacherous transaction of hand cannons to Wazi. She demanded to be taken to him, asserting her right as a Princess to help.
Episode 24 (Ending) Recap
With the help of A Wu, Lu Ranran finally located Zhao Chen Yi. She urged A Wu to take Zhao Chen Yi away quickly. However, after Zhao Chen Yi’s escape, soldiers discovered that Princess Jia Ren, as Lu Ranran was known in this world, had released him and swiftly apprehended her. When the guards questioned her, she falsely claimed her brother, the Wazi King, had ordered Zhao Chen Yi's release and that she was merely going for a walk.
But the guards were unconvinced, leading to her capture. As she was led away, she called out to A Wu to stay safe. Lu Ranran confronted her brother, the King of Wazi, pleading with him to stop the impending war. He chastised her, revealing that Zhao Chen Yi was the Fourth Prince of New Ming, not merely a lover, but a spy sent to gather intelligence on their troops. He feared that their front-line soldiers would be killed.
Lu Ranran countered that Wazi's troops were already outnumbered by New Ming and urged him to stop sacrificing innocent soldiers. Her brother retorted that retreating was impossible, emphasizing the cruelty of war and their obligation to fight for the peaceful life of Wazi's people. A military advisor, observing the scene, suggested using Lu Ranran as a valuable bargaining chip. Meanwhile, Zhao Chen Yi awoke in the New Ming military camp, grateful to A Wu for his rescue.
Zhao Chenxuan soon arrived, and Zhao Chen Yi, still disoriented, learned from A Wu that Lu Ranran, whom he affectionately called "Girl," had not been brought back. A Wu explained that Princess Jia Ren had bought him time to escape, which meant she was still trapped in the Wazi camp.
Zhao Chen Yi became agitated, but Zhao Chenxuan calmed him, advising a careful approach as Luo Yan, the Wazi King and Lu Ranran's brother, doted on his sister and wouldn't harm her. Zhao Chenxuan then dismissed the others, asking to speak with Zhao Chen Yi privately. Zhao Chen Yi recounted how the evidence he and A Wu had gathered, specifically about Xu You Zheng secretly selling New Ming's firearms to Wazi, had been presented to their father, the Emperor.
Zhao Chenxuan confirmed that the Second Prince was also monitoring Xu You Zheng in court. He acknowledged that Xu You Zheng had framed Zhao Chen Yi for years, making his life difficult, and expressed confidence that with the brothers united, Xu You Zheng would not escape New Ming alive.
Zhao Chen Yi clarified that his years of secret investigation and opposition to Xu You Zheng were not for power but to avenge his mentor and fulfill his promise to care for Xin'er and Kang'er. He declared his intention to leave New Ming with Lu Ranran after the war, withdrawing from court affairs.
Zhao Chenxuan reminisced about their childhood, noting that Zhao Chen Yi was the only one who played with him, and how he later understood that palace life forced difficult choices. He advised Zhao Chen Yi to be cautious, even with power. They agreed that the upcoming battle at Yao Lin Fortress was critical, and Zhao Chen Yi decided to rescue Lu Ranran before the conflict to prevent Wazi from using her against him. Zhao Chenxuan assented to the plan.
Back in the Wazi camp, Lu Ranran was confined but still worried about Zhao Chen Yi. To her surprise, Zhao Chen Yi arrived to rescue her. She questioned his reckless actions, pointing out the numerous Wazi soldiers. He assured her he had thought it through and would not leave without her. As they tried to escape, they were intercepted by her brother.
The Wazi King had anticipated Zhao Chen Yi's rescue attempt and confronted Lu Ranran, questioning her loyalty to Wazi and her clan. He warned her against betraying her people, insisting she would not leave. Lu Ranran tried to warn Zhao Chen Yi that it was a trap and urged him to flee, but he refused to abandon her. She declared she would only leave with him. A military advisor then ordered the archers to prepare.
Lu Ranran desperately pleaded with her brother, promising that if they were allowed to leave, they would disappear, and Wazi would sever all ties with New Ming. However, the King refused, asserting that Wazi could not allow its princess to flee with an enemy. Arrows were released, and Zhao Chen Yi’s loyal subordinate, Xiao Bao, bravely shielded the couple, taking multiple arrows. With his dying breath, Xiao Bao urged Zhao Chen Yi to escape, promising to protect him.
Zhao Chen Yi was heartbroken, cradling Xiao Bao and vowing to take him home to New Ming. As Xiao Bao passed away, the Wazi King’s advisor seized the moment. He publicly announced that a New Ming assassin had attempted to kill Princess Jia Ren, only to be slain by their King. He declared this act as New Ming’s evil deed, a direct attack on Wazi, and called for revenge on behalf of their princess, igniting cries of "Revenge!"
from the Wazi soldiers. Lu Ranran realized her brother was using her as a pretext for war. In an attempt to protect Zhao Chen Yi, she offered to comply with her brother's demands, but when he ignored her, she tried to take her own life. However, Zhao Chen Yi, already gravely wounded, was further injured in the struggle, and Lu Ranran was taken away by the soldiers.
He begged the Wazi King not to harm Lu Ranran, reminding him she was his sister. The King taunted him, demanding he kneel to beg. Despite his immense pain and humiliation, Zhao Chen Yi slowly lowered himself to his knees, sacrificing his dignity for Lu Ranran’s safety. After some hesitation, the Wazi King seemed to relent, agreeing not to harm Lu Ranran. However, his advisor, seizing the opportunity, fired an arrow at Zhao Chen Yi.
Both Lu Ranran and Zhao Chen Yi instinctively tried to shield each other. Zhao Chen Yi pushed Lu Ranran away, taking the arrow himself. He collapsed into her arms, his life flashing before his eyes, before uttering "I love. . ." and dying in her embrace.
After this tragic turn of events, Lu Ranran completed her mission and was awarded the Gold Key, the ultimate bonus prize of the Light-chasing Era game, for unlocking the keywords "Hope, Sacrifice, and True Love." The key granted her access to the full plot and the ability to replay any story. Overwhelmed by reviewing the game's past events, Lu Ranran realized that Zhao Chen Yi had repeatedly protected her and hidden his true feelings.
She then understood that he had been trapped by Xu Lang precisely because he was trying to save her. Determined to change their fate, Lu Ranran chose to reload the game to the night of the fire. She found herself back in the burning building, resolved to find Zhao Chen Yi and prevent the tragic future. Zhao Chen Yi soon appeared, urging her to escape and "restore the game."
Surprised, Lu Ranran realized he had regained his consciousness within the game. He revealed he had followed the traces of her reloading the game with the Gold Key. With their minds reconnected, the game was officially completed. Back in the real world, Lu Ranran and Zhao Chen Yi successfully returned from the game. Xu Lang, Lu Ranran's brother, had successfully rescued his sister, Xiao Yun, who had regained her eyesight after surgery.
Lu Ranran, now an intern doctor, decided to return to school to further her medical studies, believing in using her knowledge to help patients, whether through Chinese or Western medicine. Wang Chen Yi, known as Zhao Chen Yi in the game, was revealed to be a co-founder of Yun Chu Technologies and the creator of "Light-chasing Era."
His innovative brain interaction technology offered realistic experiences and therapeutic options for people with physical disabilities, and he was committed to supporting medical research with it. Lu Ranran continued to "date" him in the game. When she inquired about the fates of the other game characters, Wang Chen Yi explained that Xu You Zheng was executed, the war with Wazi was averted, and the Wazi King imprisoned his manipulative advisor, Mister Shi, before reconciling with New Ming.
Lu Ranran expressed her hope for the continued well-being of all the characters. Reflecting on their journey, Lu Ranran commented that without the game, she, an intern, would never have met him, a renowned genius designer. Wang Chen Yi then revealed that he had recognized her long before their in-game romance, back when she was an intern doctor at the hospital.
He had been captivated by her kindness and unwavering resolve in treating his sister, Xiao Yun, who was blind at the time, and had fallen in love with her at their very first meeting. Echoing his proposal from the game, Wang Chen Yi asked Lu Ranran to marry him. This time, Lu Ranran happily accepted.
