Debit Queen Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Debit Queen Synopsis
Miss Ling Se, the eldest daughter of the Ling family, has always dreamed of leaving her family on her birthday to live a carefree life, free from the pressure of marriage and the need to please others. However, her plans quickly go awry when she unexpectedly encounters Xu Zilu, the wealthiest man in Linchun City. Not only does he snatch away the shop she had long set her sights on, but he also tricks her into becoming his contractual wife, forcing them to be bound together.
Despite the rocky start, Ling Se's kind-hearted and independent nature, coupled with her innovative business acumen, earns Xu Zilu’s admiration, and he begins to develop feelings for her. As this bickering couple navigates their relationship, the hidden crisis within the Xu family gradually surfaces. The sudden appearance of a rival, Wu Qi, further complicates Xu Zilu’s business and personal life.
Fortunately, Ling Se’s cleverness and business savvy allow her to create a series of unique products. As she and Xu Zilu journey to the capital to resolve the family's crisis, they support and trust each other, growing closer in the process. Together, they eventually secure the coveted position of royal merchant and embark on a new commercial journey in the capital city.
Debit Queen Recap
Episode 1 Recap
In Linchun City, the most popular food stall owner was Ling Se, known for her fervent love of money, which meant no haggling at her stand. Every copper coin mattered to her. She had taken in a young woman named Ping'er some months prior, hoping for help, but Ping'er, claiming to be a maid from a wealthy family, was useless at chores and ate constantly.
Ling Se felt she had taken a significant loss, and if she weren't so good at making money, Ping'er would have eaten her into poverty. However, after closing her stall each day, Ling Se transformed into the young lady of the Ling family's silk shop. This title didn't bring comfort, as her birth mother was gone, and her stepmother was determined to raise her like a maid. Her father seemed to share this ambition.
Stepmother often scolded her for not looking like a proper young lady and threatened to disown her if not for her (the stepmother's) supposed protection. Ling Se's true goal was to buy a shop, expand her business, and live freely away from the Ling mansion. The day arrived when she had saved enough money. She found a shop that Ping'er thought was too small and deserted.
But Ling Se insisted she had insider information that the street would become bustling within a year, even busier than the East Market. The shop owner asked for 100 taels, but Ling Se countered with 50. When he refused to sell at that price, she told him she would be back tomorrow. Returning home, Ling Se encountered a noble guest invited by her family.
Preferring to avoid maids, Xu Zilu, the richest man in Linchun City, entered through a side door. Ling Se, surprised by the handsome stranger, tripped and fell while wondering who he was. Xu Zilu avoided catching her. Annoyed after her fall, Ling Se tried to leave, but Xu Zilu stopped her, having stepped in dog excrement. He ordered her to get him new shoes and socks.
Ling Se refused unless he paid, asking for 10 coins for socks and 3 taels for shoes. When he revealed he had no money, she insulted him, suggesting he take stepping in dog poop as a sign of good luck. Meanwhile, Ling Se's father was meeting with Xu Zilu, hoping to become Xu's Perfume Shop's new packaging supplier. Ling's father offered a 10% discount on top of competitors' prices.
Xu Zilu countered, stating that as Xu's was soon to become an Imperial Merchant supplier, a significant deal involving continuous palace shipments, they required at least a 30% discount. He advised Ling's father to think long-term. After leaving the Ling mansion, Xu Zilu was met by Wang Zhujue, the son of the Linchun City Governor and a known rival. They exchanged taunts, with Xu Zilu calling Wang Zhujue a 'haunting ghost.'
Wang Zhujue noticed Xu Zilu was wearing his limited edition cloud-embroidered shoes, worth 20 taels. Fuding explained that Xu Zilu had stepped in dog poop, and Ling's father had provided the shoes. Wang Zhujue became frantic, believing Xu Zilu had stepped on his beloved dog, Wealth. Xu Zilu then mocked Wang Zhujue for failing the provincial exam four times and still attending school.
Wang Zhujue retorted that his father was tirelessly working on the West Market development plan and hadn't been home in days. Ling Se returned to the rice shop the next day, expecting to negotiate further, only to find the shopkeeper packing up. He informed her that someone else had already bought the shop for 49 taels. Just then, Xu Zilu appeared, revealing he was the buyer. Ling Se was furious, arguing about 'first come, first served.'
Xu Zilu calmly asked if she had signed a contract or paid a deposit. When she admitted she hadn't, he stated that ownership goes to whoever pays first. He confirmed he bought the shop specifically because Wang Zhujue's comment revealed his father was planning the West Market, making the location valuable. He dismissively told her to go find somewhere else. Disappointed, Ling Se returned home.
Ping'er blamed Ling Se's stinginess for not paying the deposit, causing her to lose the shop. Ling Se, though upset, said they still had the 100 taels to find another place. Searching for the money, she realized she had left the banknote in her dirty clothes. To her horror, she found the clothes had been washed and were ruined, along with the banknote.
Her brother, Ling Shuo, appeared, explaining he had tried to be kind and wash her clothes, thinking she would be touched. Furious at the loss of her six years of savings, Ling Se chased after Ling Shuo, who claimed innocence but had clearly caused the damage. With only three taels left, Ling Se was desperate. Ping'er jokingly suggested asking the 'black-hearted bird,' Xu Zilu, for help.
Ling Se seized on the idea, deciding she would ask Xu Zilu to rent her the shop. She didn't care what kind of person he was, as long as he would rent her the location. Meanwhile, Xu Zilu returned home late. His mother was waiting, immediately pressuring him to marry. She claimed he had avoided marriage and women since his former fiancée, Xie Wanrong, ran away, suggesting he had a hidden illness or peculiar preferences.
She insisted he must marry to fulfill a requirement for becoming an Imperial Merchant. The mother revealed the selection was earlier than expected, in about ten days, due to reforms. She presented him with a list of potential brides and threatened to replace him as the family head with Yushan if he didn't comply. Cornered, Xu Zilu promised to get married within three days. His mother accepted this tight deadline, warning she would not change her mind even if he begged her afterward.
Episode 2 Recap
Xu Zilu was in a desperate situation, facing a strict three-day deadline from his mother to find a wife or forfeit his position as clan leader. Despite his protests that he wasn't speaking in anger, his mother was firm, threatening to disown him if he failed, and revealing to his sister-in-law that her true motive was to prevent him from getting involved in royal family affairs.
Panicked, Xu Zilu turned to his attendant, Fu Ding, who vowed to help him find a Young Madam within the tight timeframe. Fu Ding embarked on a frantic search, consulting various matchmakers, fortune tellers who offered items like jade pendants said to guarantee a heaven-sent match, and even doctors claiming to cure his "difficult case" and eliminate his fear of women using remedies made from the remains of an "ancient fierce beast."
Xu Zilu was skeptical of these methods but felt compelled to try everything, enduring awkward encounters and frustrating delays. Meanwhile, Ling Se was also trying desperately to meet with Xu Zilu to discuss business concerning a shop. She inquired about his daily movements, receiving conflicting information from different people about whether he was at Xiangyun Street, Xianghua Garden, Tongfu Tavern, or the northern suburbs. She finally located him after he left a doctor's office.
As he tried to avoid her, calling her a "stubborn bandage," Ling Se, mistakenly assuming he had been treated for hemorrhoids, earnestly recommended a different pharmacy, much to Xu Zilu's embarrassment and Fu Ding's flustered denials. Ling Se insisted she had an urgent matter to discuss, but Xu Zilu criticized her attitude as rude and insincere, telling her to reconsider her approach.
Determined to prove her sincerity, Ling Se returned home and spent her entire fortune making "victory cakes" for Xu Zilu. Her maid, Ping'er, was surprised she was giving away something for free, but Ling Se explained that showing genuine sincerity was crucial in business. As the deadline loomed with no viable candidates, Fu Ding suggested Xu Zilu meet with Miss Tao, who was known to be deeply infatuated with him.
Fu Ding proposed discussing the possibility of sleeping in separate rooms after marriage as a last resort. Xu Zilu reluctantly agreed to meet her in the East Market the next day. During the meeting between Xu Zilu and Miss Tao, Ling Se arrived to deliver the victory cakes. Miss Tao, seeing Ling Se approach, became visibly upset and declared that she and "Zilu brother" were deeply in love and about to marry, warning Ling Se to stay away.
Ling Se congratulated them but reiterated her need to discuss a pressing matter with Xu Zilu, referring to him sarcastically as Miss Tao's "esteemed fiancé." She presented the victory cakes, explaining the effort she put into making them overnight because she heard he liked sweets. In his agitation, Xu Zilu accidentally knocked the box, sending the cakes scattering to the ground. Ling Se was devastated, detailing the cost and effort, stating the ingredients cost all the money she had.
Feeling that her sincerity was completely wasted, she angrily declared she no longer wanted the shop. She vowed never to marry, never to rely on a man, and certainly never to like someone like him, whom she compared to a fragile "paper doll." She promised that whatever business he opened in the shop, she would ensure its failure. Wang Zhujue, who witnessed the scene, was impressed by Ling Se's spirit.
Xu Zilu, upon hearing her strong declaration that she had sworn never to marry and would never like him, began to see her as a potentially suitable partner precisely because she was not interested in him or his status. Later, Ling Se encountered her father, who was drunk. She confronted him about marrying her mother when he disliked her and questioned why he had her if she was considered "unlucky."
Her father callously admitted he only married her mother for her dowry, claiming it was the reason for his current prosperity. Heartbroken by his words, Ling Se declared he was not worthy of filial respect and that she no longer wished to acknowledge him as her father. Ling Shuo, Ling Se's brother, overheard their mother (Ling Se's stepmother) arranging a marriage for Ling Se, demanding 500 taels and indifferent to the groom's identity or circumstances.
He warned Ling Se that their mother was selling her off and urged her to escape immediately. Ling Se feigned needing to change clothes and used the opportunity to slip out of the mansion. Outside, she encountered Fu Ding and desperately offered him five coins to take her away. Fu Ding agreed and hurried her into a carriage. As they rode, Fu Ding referred to her as "Young Madam," confusing Ling Se.
Before she could question him further, Fu Ding accidentally bumped her head, causing her to faint in the carriage. Ling Se awoke to find herself at the Xu Mansion. She was informed that her stepmother had accepted 500 taels and sold her into marriage with Xu Zilu. Furious, Ling Se attempted to leave. Xu Zilu stopped her and proposed a one-year contract marriage.
He explained that he was being forced to marry and knew she didn't want to, making them suitable partners for a temporary arrangement. He promised that after one year, they would divorce, and he would give her the shop she desired for free, plus the 500 taels her stepmother had received.
He argued this was a deal with "hundred gains, not one harm," offering her the protection of the Xu family during the year, after which she would be truly free to establish herself, something she couldn't easily achieve if she simply escaped the Ling family and was pursued. Ling Se, despite her initial anger, quickly grasped the immense benefits of the proposal, realizing it was a pathway to achieving the independence she craved. She agreed to the deal.
Ling Se requested a written agreement to solidify the terms. Xu Zilu, knowing she was illiterate, cleverly pretended difficulty using the brush and ink, prompting her to help, while he secretly penned a fake contract. Fu Ding expressed concern about leaving a paper trail, but Xu Zilu reassured him the document was useless as evidence and ordered him to keep quiet. Meanwhile, Ping'er was thrown out of the Ling Mansion.
Disbelieving that Ling Se was married and worried about her whereabouts, she wandered alone until she encountered Wang Zhujue, who was sneaking out after curfew to drink midnight wine at Fulai Inn. Witnessing her distress, Wang Zhujue offered Ping'er shelter for the night. Waking up in the Xu Mansion, Ling Se remembered Ping'er and resolved to ask Xu Zilu to bring her maid to the mansion.
As she went to find Xu Zilu, she was confronted by his mother, who immediately began interrogating her. Xu Zilu quickly stepped in, explaining that Ling Se was new and needed time to adjust, ushering her inside at his mother's insistence.
Episode 3 Recap
Upon meeting Ling Se, Xu Mother inquired how long she had known her son, Xu Zilu. Ling Se replied, "Not long." Xu Mother pressed why she would agree to marry him so soon, to which Ling Se stated it was because she liked him. Xu Mother skeptically asked what she liked about Zilu. Ling Se admitted she hadn't liked him at first, describing him negatively as having a "long face," being "mean," and "full of evil ideas" and "stubborn."
However, she confessed she was captivated by his "mysterious confidence," as he seemed to think very highly of himself despite his flaws. Zilu interrupted, urging his mother to respect his choice. Xu Mother questioned his method of marriage, without traditional rites or a banquet, calling it a "disgrace to our family." She then directly asked Ling Se if Zilu held something over her, forcing her to marry him, based on her observation that Ling Se was keeping a distance.
Ling Se quickly denied this, claiming Zilu was very nice to her. To dispel Xu Mother's doubts, Ling Se proactively linked arms with Zilu and called her "Mother." Delighted by this display of affection, Xu Mother decided they must have a grand wedding banquet, inviting many guests to recoup money she had given as wedding gifts over the years and to silence gossip. Zilu objected, finding the grand celebration unnecessary, but Xu Mother was determined, declaring the matter settled.
Ling Se then suggested she knew someone who specialized in organizing banquets efficiently and affordably. Xu Mother, pleased with her initiative, entrusted the entire wedding preparation to Ling Se. Ling Se was relieved to have successfully appeased Xu Mother. Zilu, however, was angry, accusing her of intentionally instigating the banquet despite their agreement that she wouldn't interfere in Xu family matters.
Ling Se insisted she was merely going along with Xu Mother's obvious desire for a grand wedding and reminded him they were skipping all the traditional rites anyway. Zilu believed she was solely interested in the potential wedding gift money. Ling Se denied being motivated by greed, stating she was just respecting his mother's wishes and found Xu Mother's affection for him enviable.
Zilu dropped the subject but sternly warned her that from now on, she must obtain his consent for any decisions. Ling Se agreed and then brought up an important matter: her maid, Ping'er, was still at the Ling Mansion, and she feared Ping'er would be mistreated without her there. She asked Zilu to send someone to bring Ping'er to the Xu Mansion as a favor.
Zilu instructed his steward, Fuding, to go to the Ling Mansion immediately to retrieve Ping'er, emphasizing that the maid must be brought back, warning of his temper if the task wasn't completed. Ling Se also tentatively asked if the wedding gift money, since they were the main figures, would be split equally. Zilu told her they would discuss the money only after the banquet was successfully organized. Ling Se then met with Liu Yeniang to discuss the banquet.
Xu family staff initially planned lavish decorations and tableware, but Ling Se, as the Young Madam, insisted on using the most ordinary and cheap items possible, citing the tight timeline and the impracticality of expensive items that guests might break. Liu Yeniang was surprised by the low budget from the wealthy Xu family. Ling Se explained they could still make money and reminded Liu Yeniang that she hadn't forgotten her in her own past ventures.
Liu Yeniang agreed but playfully requested that Ling Se bring Zilu to her shop often so she could openly admire him. Meanwhile, at the academy, Ping'er was with Wang Zhujue when Ling Shuo arrived, surprised to see Ping'er there. Ling Shuo explained that he had warned his sister, Ling Se, to flee when he heard their mother planned to sell her, but he didn't know where she had gone afterwards.
Wang Zhujue mentioned meeting Ping'er the previous night while looking for "midnight wine." Other students overheard and accused Wang Zhujue of breaking curfew, believing "midnight wine" was literally wine drunk at midnight. Ping'er corrected them, explaining the historical context of "midnight wine" as a term referencing talented but frustrated scholars and the poet Jun Jinzhi, and that it was a specific type of wine. Wang Zhujue was impressed by her knowledge.
A servant then arrived, informing Ling Shuo that his father wanted him to return home for his sister's wedding banquet. Confused about Ling Se marrying, they rushed to the Ling Mansion to find out more. At the Ling Mansion, they found a servant from the Xu family demanding Ping'er be handed over, stating Young Master Xu's order to bring her back. The Ling family master claimed Ping'er had been kicked out.
Ling Shuo arrived during this confrontation and learned Ling Se was marrying Xu Zilu. He immediately assumed Zilu was kidnapping her due to a past conflict. Ping'er, Ling Shuo, and Wang Zhujue decided to go to the Xu Mansion to rescue Ling Se, forcing their way in and causing damage. Amidst the chaos they created inside the Xu Mansion, they found Ling Se. Ling Shuo and Wang Zhujue attempted to "rescue" her, assuming she was being held captive.
Ling Se stopped them, revealing that she was there willingly and had chosen to marry Zilu. She explained she had even been the one to ask Zilu to bring Ping'er to the mansion. Ling Se scolded Ling Shuo for jumping to conclusions, asking how valuable he thought she was to be kidnapped. Ping'er was hurt and angry that Ling Se had forgotten her when she fled the Ling Mansion. Ling Se apologized, saying she had left in a hurry.
To make up, she gave Ping'er some roast chicken she had saved from the banquet. Ping'er forgave her after eating and gave Ling Se a waterproof purse she had handmade as a belated birthday gift, telling her to keep all her money in it. Ling Se confided in Ping'er about her agreement with Zilu: a fake marriage for a year in exchange for her shop back and 500 taels, claiming it was a good deal.
She showed Ping'er the paper she believed was their agreement. Since Ling Se couldn't read, Ping'er read the paper and revealed it wasn't an agreement at all, but a famous classical poem about loss and futility, implying Ling Se's hopes were in vain. Realizing Zilu had tricked her, Ling Se became enraged and went to confront him immediately. Xu Zilu was waiting, having anticipated Ling Se's arrival since she mentioned Ping'er could read earlier that day.
Ling Se confronted him angrily about the fake agreement. Zilu calmly explained that while there wasn't a written contract, he would still keep his word regarding their arrangement. Ling Se, however, didn't trust him after discovering the deception and demanded he sign a new agreement and give her the wedding gift money. Zilu agreed to settle the accounts for the day. He listed the income from wedding gifts at 811 taels, which excited Ling Se.
He then listed the numerous expenses: the expensive banquet tables (ordered from top restaurants at 5 taels each, even with a discount), the costs for drinks, decorations, and invitations (totaling 30 taels), and the significant cost of compensating for the damage caused by Ling Shuo and Ping'er's group during their forceful entry, including repairs and medical expenses for injured staff.
After totaling the expenses at 900 taels and subtracting them from the income, Zilu stated that Ling Se actually owed him 89 taels, which he then rounded down to 45 taels. He told her they would discuss the agreement further only after she paid him the money she owed. Ling Se threatened to expose their fake marriage to everyone.
Zilu remained unfazed, reminding her that they had just publicly held a grand wedding, where she herself had told everyone she married him willingly. He pointed out that no one would believe her now. Ling Se, defeated and furious by his cunning, stormed away.
Episode 4 Recap
Ling Se went to visit Old Madam Xu, who was happily selecting fabrics with Ms. Jia, planning to make new clothes for Ling Se. Old Madam was overjoyed to have Ling Se, saying she always wanted a daughter and was glad Xu Zilu brought her home so she could finally dress someone up.
Ling Se tried to confess something about her and Xu Zilu, but Old Madam kept interrupting, expressing affection and telling Ling Se not to feel bad for others' opinions. She assured Ling Se that she now had a mother who would protect her and provide for her. Xu Zilu arrived, questioning if Ling Se was complaining about him.
Old Madam immediately assumed they had argued and demanded Xu Zilu apologize, citing a family rule that the husband is always at fault in a marital dispute. Xu Zilu protested, but Old Madam insisted. He gave a half-hearted apology. Old Madam then mentioned that Tao Meili had caused a scene at their home and instructed Xu Zilu to go apologize to the Tao Mansion immediately because the Imperial Merchants Conference was approaching and they couldn't afford any issues.
Xu Zilu replied that it depended on his wife's wishes. Old Madam implored Ling Se to help and keep an eye on him. Ling Se agreed, and they returned to discussing fabric choices. After Xu Zilu and Ling Se left Old Madam, Ling Se sarcastically commented on Xu Zilu's "cunning" tactic but declared she would not leave, telling him not to regret it. Ping'er, their maid, asked what had happened, noting that Ling Se had discovered their agreement was fake.
Ping'er suggested he just give her a real one, but Xu Zilu dismissed the idea, stating it was hard to discern people's hearts and he wouldn't give her a real agreement unless he was sure she was trustworthy. Ping'er predicted he would regret it. The next morning, Ping'er informed Ling Se that Xu Zilu had gone out. When Xu Zilu returned at noon, he asked if anything unusual had happened, clearly worried.
Ping'er teased him, saying he'd been fretting all morning about Ling Se causing trouble, and added that Ling Se had been well-behaved. Xu Zilu wondered what kind of "weird things" she could even do alone. Ling Se then appeared and revealed she had redecorated his room in green, explaining she did it for a "new start".
Xu Zilu was furious and ordered her to change it back, but Old Madam arrived, declared she liked the green decor, and forbade anyone from changing it. Ling Se then invited them for lunch, having prepared a table full of food. Old Madam was delighted, especially when Ling Se mentioned she had made Sichuan food, as Old Madam grew up in the region and called it "Yummy" ("巴适"). Xu Zilu reluctantly sat down.
Knowing Xu Zilu hated spicy food, Ling Se encouraged him to try dishes like Duck Blood in Chili Sauce and Poached Spicy Pork Slices, then pointed out that the Cabbage in Mustard Sauce was the spiciest. Soon after eating the spicy food, Xu Zilu complained of a stomach ache and rushed to the toilet while Ling Se mocked him.
Later, Xu Zilu was talking to his Uncle, who commented on how many times he'd run to the toilet and asked if he was sick. Xu Zilu said he just had a stomach ache. Uncle suggested that despite the recent trouble, it was better to reconcile with the Tao family and that Xu Zilu should visit them again. Xu Zilu doubted it, saying he likely couldn't even get through their door.
Uncle offered to accompany him, confident that Mr. Tao wouldn't refuse him. They agreed to go the next day. Ling Se brought snacks she had made to Old Madam early the next morning. Old Madam was thrilled, praising Ling Se and her baking skills, saying she was lucky to have such a daughter-in-law and asking if Ling Se could make other types of pastries. Ling Se mentioned she could.
Ling Se then tried to excuse herself to go to the market for her stall business. Xu Zilu arrived and suggested Old Madam take Ling Se to play mahjong with her friends, hinting at her skill (likely referencing the previous day's meal). Old Madam eagerly agreed, wanting to show off her new daughter-in-law and humble her friends who boasted about their own.
Ling Se protested that she needed to go to the market, but Old Madam insisted, supported by Xu Zilu. Ling Se resigned herself to playing. Ping'er stayed to watch, remarking on Old Madam's tendency to argue while playing and how Xu Zilu was cunning to keep Ling Se busy. Xu Zilu instructed Ping'er to ensure Ling Se didn't leave until the game was over.
During the mahjong game, the other ladies were loudly arguing amongst themselves about their children and spitting insults and food. Ling Se took advantage of their distraction, quietly achieving a "self-drawn victory with all tiles in one suit". She won several rounds, leaving the other ladies speechless and complaining about losing too much. They quickly ended the game and left. Ling Se and Ping'er were finally free.
Ling Se noted that Xu Zilu had deliberately trapped her there to prevent her from going to the market. Ping'er pointed out how much she had won. Ling Se sighed, saying it was too late to set up her stall anyway. She explained that the winnings would have to be spent treating the other ladies according to custom, so it was like the money was just passing through her hands.
She decided instead to use some of the money to buy a gift for Old Madam. Meanwhile, Tao Meili was home, furious and smashing items in her room. Her father, Mr. Tao, tried to comfort her, saying she could break anything she liked. She was heartbroken over the Xu family situation. Her servant suggested shopping to cheer her up, which Tao Meili readily agreed to, instructing the servant to prepare plenty of money.
At a jewelry shop, Tao Meili spotted a bracelet she wanted. She called Ling Se a "Stingy Girl" when she saw her enter the shop. Ling Se also showed interest in the same bracelet, leading to a dispute. Tao Meili accused Ling Se of constantly competing with her for everything. Ping'er warned them they might break the bracelet. Ling Se let go. Tao Meili declared she would buy it for 300 coins.
Ling Se then started bidding higher, driving the price up to 5 taels of silver. Tao Meili paid the inflated price, then proceeded to buy other items that Ling Se showed even a slight interest in, wanting to prove she was superior and prevent Ling Se from getting anything. She even bought an entire row of valuable items, including rare green agate, after the owner presented them.
Ping'er advised Tao Meili against being so impulsive, but Tao Meili ignored her, determined to surpass Ling Se. Tao Meili paid and left, feeling smug that Ling Se had bought nothing. After Tao Meili left, Ling Se spoke to the shop owner. She acknowledged that he had made a good profit thanks to her. She then asked for a discount on a specific bead string, claiming she was short a few coins.
The owner praised her eye for quality, revealing the bead string was more valuable than everything Tao Meili had bought combined. He called Ling Se his "God of Wealth" and said she could pay any price she wished for it today. Ling Se joked that the real God of Wealth was Tao Meili, who was "stupid and rich," and told the owner to mention her name if Tao Meili ever returned, promising she would buy everything.
Ling Se acquired the bead string at a heavily discounted price. Later, while admiring her purchases, Tao Meili was told by her servant that she had been tricked. The servant explained that Ling Se had deliberately raised the prices and shown interest in items she didn't intend to buy, solely to make Tao Meili overspend. Tao Meili was furious upon realizing she had been manipulated and wasted so much money.
At the Tao Mansion, Xu Zilu and his Uncle were kept waiting in the main hall for a long time before Mr. Tao finally appeared. Xu Zilu presented a gift, expensive Wuyi Mountain Dahongpao tea, which his Uncle had acquired. Mr. Tao accepted the gift and asked them to state their purpose quickly. Xu Zilu inquired about the outstanding cooperation agreement.
Mr. Tao accused him of playing dumb, stating that his daughter had become a city-wide joke because of the incident, making cooperation impossible. Uncle intervened, arguing that business should be separate from personal matters and that since their families were neighbors, it would be better to resolve the conflict amicably. He offered to raise the agreed price by 20% if the cooperation could continue and added that Xu Zilu would apologize to Tao Meili.
Mr. Tao seemed to consider the offer, saying that if his daughter could receive a satisfactory explanation, they could talk business. Just then, Tao Meili returned home and was enraged to see Xu Zilu. She demanded he leave immediately and stated that no one from the Xu family was ever welcome in the Tao Mansion again. Mr. Tao was bewildered and asked what was happening.
A servant explained that Tao Meili had clashed with "that girl" (Ling Se) again, and Xu's Young Madam had colluded with the jewelry shop owner to cheat Tao Meili out of money. Mr. Tao tried to appease his daughter about the lost money. Xu Zilu stepped forward, saying he was unaware of the details but would take responsibility for the money lost. He stated that Ling Se was his wife and he would apologize on her behalf.
Tao Meili was furious that he called Ling Se his wife and defended her, pointing out how Ling Se had publicly embarrassed her multiple times. She demanded that Ling Se come and kneel before her until she was satisfied, threatening that otherwise, Xu Zilu would never do business with her father. Uncle immediately suggested that Xu Zilu should have Ling Se come to apologize.
However, Xu Zilu disagreed, stating that "it takes two to tango," and if his wife was to apologize, Tao Meili must also apologize to his wife. Mr. Tao was outraged, demanding to know who Ling Se was that his daughter should apologize to her. Xu Zilu maintained that as businessmen, they should focus on business, not personal feelings. He argued that their relationship was purely one of cooperation, and even if they couldn't reach an agreement, they should part civilly.
He clarified that he had never behaved improperly towards Tao Meili or promised her marriage, and any conflict between her and his wife stemmed from her own wishful thinking, adding that Mr. Tao was well aware of his daughter's temper. He firmly stated that he never begged others for cooperation and that the Xu family had other potential business partners. Mr. Tao was enraged by Xu Zilu's defiance and ordered him to "Get out." Xu Zilu said goodbye and left.
Uncle followed him, criticizing his impulsive behavior and his refusal to apologize simply to feel good. He argued that a simple apology would have resolved the immediate crisis and questioned if Xu Zilu valued that woman more than the Xu family's future. Xu Zilu denied caring about Ling Se, explaining that yielding to the Taos' demand would give them undue leverage in the future. He reiterated that true business partners required mutual trust, implying Mr. Tao was not trustworthy.
Uncle accepted his reasoning but insisted that Xu Zilu must control his wife and prevent her from causing any more trouble before the upcoming Imperial Merchant Conference, advising him to be cautious in his interactions. Later, Ling Se and Ping'er were preparing for their morning sales, needing a large jar to make fermented goods. Ling Se discovered her jar was missing and was angry, suspecting someone had stolen it, possibly the butler.
Xu Zilu appeared and admitted he had taken it. Ling Se accused him of deliberately interfering with her livelihood. Xu Zilu retorted that she had had good fortune that day (referencing her winnings from the mahjong game and her interaction at the jewelry shop) and questioned if colluding with the shop owner to trick Tao Meili could be considered "aboveboard."
Episode 5 Recap
Xu Zilu, finding that Ling Se was not in her room, discovered the jars he had confiscated on her table. He had taken them because she had colluded with a shopkeeper to cheat Tao Meili. As punishment, he ordered Ling Se to copy "The Encyclopedia of Fragrance" and "Business Strategies", declaring she would not be allowed to leave the mansion until she finished.
Ling Se, who detested writing, was frustrated by this "underhanded trick" and sought help from the Old Madam. Despite bringing a bracelet as a gift and saying many kind words, the Old Madam, who Xu Zilu had already spoken to and gotten approval from, remained unmoved. Later, Liu Yeniang came to find Ling Se, needing help in the kitchen because her cook had quit. Liu Yeniang offered to split the profits if Ling Se could cover the next day.
Hearing she could earn money, Ling Se's interest was immediately piqued. She declared that nothing would stop her from making money and vowed to finish the copying overnight so she could help Liu Yeniang the next day. Ling Se stayed up all night copying the books, exhausted but finished.
She presented her completed work to Xu Zilu, who, without even glancing at it, told her to rewrite it, saying she hadn't understood the content and was just going through the motions. Furious, Ling Se accused him of not keeping his word and insisted she would leave the mansion. Xu Zilu ordered Fu Ding to have servants watch her and prevent her from leaving.
Ling Se, feeling her legs could be broken but she would still leave, declared she would never return if she walked out that day. Fu Ding tried to explain to Ling Se that Xu Zilu was not being unreasonable; he was stressed about the upcoming Imperial Merchants Conference and was actually trying to protect her from potential retaliation by the vindictive Tao family.
However, Ling Se, upset that Xu Zilu's concern wasn't being conveyed properly, remained resolute in her decision to leave. Meanwhile, Xu Zilu faced a significant problem with the pepper needed for an order from Prince Xian's Mansion. Tao had bought up the entire supply. The only alternative was a black market dealer, but the cost was twenty times the potential penalty fee for failing to deliver on time.
Xu Zilu told his subordinate not to inform his mother, but the Old Madam overheard the conversation. She approached Xu Zilu, emphasizing the importance of integrity in business. She advised him to inform Prince Xian's Mansion immediately if they couldn't deliver and pay the required penalty. She also stressed the need to handle this discreetly because the Imperial Merchants Conference was approaching, and they couldn't afford any negative publicity.
Xu Zilu asked if she wished he had married Tao Meili, implying it would have avoided these issues. His mother dismissed the thought, saying while Tao Meili was nice, she much preferred Ling Se. She proudly showed off a red pearl bracelet Ling Se had given her, admiring how well it paired with her green bangle, and said she looked forward to showing it off when playing cards.
Xu Zilu was touched and told her not to worry about the business, assuring her he had a plan. Unable to leave through the front, Ling Se secretly climbed the mansion wall with the help of Ping'er. Ping'er remarked that she could use the back door, but Ling Se was determined to let "that darn fox" Xu Zilu see what regret looked like.
She went to Xu's Perfume Shop, cleared out the customers, closed the doors, and gathered all the staff. She told them she wanted to understand Young Master Xu better to be a good wife and asked them to share embarrassing or little-known stories about him from his childhood. Ping'er was instructed to write everything down.
The staff, eager to share, revealed stories about Xu Zilu's physical weakness as a child, his bedwetting problem that lasted until he was twelve, and an incident where he was badly stung by wasps after trying to raid a nest for sweets. Ling Se noted these details, promising to use them to get back at Xu Zilu.
She gave some money to Baodatting, a "Nosy Parker," instructing him to spread the stories widely and add more details to make sure everyone knew. She was confident this would force Xu Zilu to beg her. On the street, Tao Meili was annoyed to see vendors selling various items promoted as "the same as Young Madam Xu's," including little tigers and umbrellas.
She was confronted by a vendor trying to sell her a hairpin also supposedly bought by Young Madam Xu. While frustrated, she saw Ling Se arranging to spread scandalous information about Xu Zilu. Tao Meili decided this was her chance to settle both old and new scores. She instructed her guard, Sibing, to find two capable men and return to the mansion to prevent her father from interfering.
Confronting Ling Se, Tao Meili had her tied up and taken to a secluded forest. She declared she had been waiting for this day since Ling Se first crossed her. Ling Se tried to explain her relationship with Xu Zilu was purely a financial transaction, but Tao Meili accused her of showing off and decided to make her pay. She challenged Ling Se to a competition and had her untied.
They began fighting physically, pulling hair, pinching noses, and butting heads. As they fought, a group of bandits appeared. They quickly killed Tao Meili's two guards. The bandit leader decided the girls were valuable and planned to capture them to sell in a brothel for money. As the bandits prepared to take them away, Ling Se came up with a plan.
She told Tao Meili that only one of them could escape and that she would hold off the bandits while Tao Meili went to find Xu Zilu for help. She then asked a bandit to untie her hands so she could use the toilet, which he reluctantly did. Ling Se quickly untied Tao Meili's hands as well.
She urged Tao Meili to hide nearby and then escape back to the city to report their location after she had created a distraction. Tao Meili hesitated, reminding Ling Se they hadn't settled their score, but Ling Se told her to just go, adding she would look down on her if she didn't. Ling Se then ran out, shouting for help, attracting the bandits' attention and causing them to give chase, believing she was the one trying to escape.
Tao Meili, seeing the bandits occupied with Ling Se, ran in the opposite direction into the forest. When a bandit returned after failing to catch Ling Se, the leader realized the other girl had escaped. Ling Se, still with the remaining bandits, shrewdly pointed out that if the other girl reached the city and reported them, their location would be revealed.
Convinced, the bandit leader sent two men to chase after Tao Meili, leaving the rest to guard Ling Se and another captive. Back at the Xu Mansion, Xu Zilu felt regretful about his earlier harshness towards Ling Se. He asked Fu Ding to find her so he could invite her to dinner with his mother, claiming it was just to prevent her from causing trouble the next day.
Fu Ding searched the entire mansion but reported Ling Se was nowhere to be found. Xu Zilu realized she must have snuck out, not using the main gate, and told Fu Ding to stop searching and focus on the Imperial Merchants Conference preparations. Meanwhile, Tao Meili was desperately running through the forest, chased by the bandits, her clothes dirty and torn.
She muttered to herself that if she got away, she wouldn't come back for Ling Se, but then remembered Ling Se telling her to find Xu Zilu to save her life. She hoped Ling Se wasn't dead. That evening, when the Old Madam asked about Ling Se's absence at dinner, Xu Zilu made an excuse that she wasn't feeling well. His mother spoke about her hopes for him to become an Imperial Merchant and fulfill his late father's wish. Later, Xu Zilu heard a sound and went to investigate.
Episode 6 Recap
Ping'er, despite not fully understanding the texts she was copying, felt they were remarkable and expressed admiration, questioning if Ling Se was truly just a maid. Ling Se affirmed she was, playfully asking if Ping'er looked down on maids, stating that they could also be cultured. Ping'er clarified she didn't look down on maids but simply thought Ling Se's writing was better than Wang Zixuan's and would surely earn praise from the teacher.
Realizing she had lost track of time, Ling Se suggested getting something to eat before it was too late. Later, Fuding reported to Xu Zilu that although Xu Zilu had instructed them not to search, Fuding had inquired and found that Ling Se had indeed been helping at Fulai Inn but left in the afternoon. Her maid, Ping'er, was also missing, leading Fuding to suspect they might have run away before the next day's Imperial Merchants Conference.
Xu Zilu recalled Ling Se's earlier warning that if she left, she would not return and he would regret it. Fuding worried aloud about where they could find a Young Madam in time for the conference and asked if they should search in case something had happened to her. Xu Zilu stated there was no need to search. Meanwhile, Ling Se and a merchant from the Western Regions were held captive by bandits.
When the bandits complained of hunger and having no one to cook, Ling Se volunteered, claiming she was a good cook. After preparing a meal that the bandits enjoyed, she proposed playing a game called "Ascension" to buy time. She spent the entire night playing cards with them, hoping that Tao Meili would quickly send help to rescue her.
The following morning, Xu Zilu and Fuding were surprised when Ping'er returned to the mansion, realizing that neither she nor Ling Se had run away as suspected. Ping'er explained she had stayed late at the academy the previous night and had been worried about whether there was breakfast at home.
She learned Ling Se had not returned all night and defended Ling Se, stating that her lady was very loyal and would not leave at such a crucial time, especially given the Old Madam's consideration. Realizing Ling Se might be in trouble, Xu Zilu immediately ordered Fuding to send people to search for her.
At that moment, Tao Meili arrived, urgently telling Xu Zilu ("Zilu Brother") to go rescue Ling Se quickly, warning that it might be too late if he delayed further. She explained they had been kidnapped by a bearded man the previous night, she had escaped and left markers along the way, asking if Xu Zilu would go. She then reminded him that leaving now would mean forfeiting the Imperial Merchants Conference.
Still held captive as dawn broke, Ling Se realized it was the day of the Imperial Merchants Conference and concluded that Xu Zilu likely would not come to rescue her now. She decided she would have to try and save herself. At the Imperial Merchants Conference, attendees were growing impatient waiting for the Xu family, with Tao Natural suggesting that their delay constituted a forfeiture.
However, Xu Mother arrived, explaining that Xu Zilu had important matters to attend to and she would represent the Xu family. When challenged, she asserted her right to represent the family. The competition for the Imperial Merchant nomination then came down to the Tao family and the Xu family. Tao Natural proposed a three-month period to compare the two families' profits, with the winner receiving the nomination. Xu Mother agreed to the proposal.
Meanwhile, Ling Se led the Western merchant in an attempt to escape while the bandits were distracted, but they were recaptured. Just as the bandits were about to kill them, Xu Zilu arrived with his men and engaged the bandits. Ling Se warned Xu Zilu during the fight. Xu Zilu's forces quickly subdued the bandits, rescuing Ling Se and the merchant.
Afterward, the Governor thanked Xu Zilu, Tao Meili, and Ling Se, praising them for their bravery and stating he would commend them in his report, mentioning the possibility of a court commendation for Linchun. Ling Se jokingly asked if the commendation included money, prompting Tao Meili to call her stingy. After the Governor left, Ling Se thanked Tao Meili, who admitted she had considered leaving Ling Se behind but decided against it.
Ling Se noted Tao Meili's stubbornness but acknowledged she wasn't a bad person. Ling Se then complained about Xu Zilu yelling at her despite her ordeal. Upon returning home, Ling Se was greeted by a worried Ping'er and Xiao He. Ling Se complained they hadn't looked for her sooner, but Ping'er explained she was following Ling Se's instructions to stay and watch Master. Ling Se accepted her explanation. Ling Se had injured her leg during the escape.
Ping'er, afraid of blood, was unable to help, so Xu Zilu arrived to apply medicine. While he treated her leg, Ling Se tried to talk, but Xu Zilu told her to be quiet. She asked if the conference had been delayed because of her, but he brushed it off as none of her concern. Seizing the opportunity, she mentioned her hand was also injured and asked if she could be excused from copying books.
Xu Zilu agreed and presented her with the contractual marriage agreement she had requested earlier. He explained that the reason he hadn't given it to her before was the high stakes of the Imperial Merchants Conference; if their contractual marriage were revealed, it could be considered treason and lead to their families' execution. Now that the conference situation was settled, the risk was manageable. He warned her of the severity and said it wasn't too late to back out.
Ling Se considered the risk but decided the business venture was worth it, promising to keep their arrangement a secret. She even joked that being kidnapped by Tao Meili had proven her trustworthiness. She then pointed out that everyone else had been thanked, but not Xu Zilu, who had saved her. He questioned why he should be thanked, but when she pressed the point, he agreed and offered to treat her to "World's Best Noodles".
Meanwhile, in Prince Xian's Mansion, a subordinate informed Prince Xian that Eunuch Zhou had arrived in Linchun and delivered the instructions. The subordinate expressed concern that Eunuch Zhou's greed might jeopardize Prince Xian's plans, but Prince Xian was confident Eunuch Zhou wouldn't dare play tricks on him.
News reached Tao Natural that Prince Xian's eunuch had visited the Xu family and that the Xu family was arranging for a shipment of pepper via waterway from the south, which would resolve their supply issues. Realizing this made it much harder to surpass the Xu family in the three-month competition, Tao Natural decided they needed to prevent the Xu family from getting the shipment and planned to visit Eunuch Zhou.
Later, Xu Zilu met with Eunuch Zhou, who stated he was simply passing through Linchun on business for the prince in the south and had stopped by to check on the Prince's Mansion order for Jiuzhongtian incense. He stressed the importance of timely delivery as the incense was for sacrificial use. Xu Zilu assured him the delivery would be on time and offered a gift, which the Eunuch accepted.
Afterward, Xu Zilu and his butler discussed the visit, speculating that the Eunuch's visit was likely motivated by a need for money, a problem Xu Zilu felt could be easily solved. Ling Se and Ping'er discussed the negative information they had gathered about Xu Zilu (such as him being weak and unable to lift heavy things), admitting they planned to spread it but thought such details were insignificant and wouldn't attract much attention, perhaps wasting money.
However, rumors about Xu Zilu's weakness and his difficulties in "bedroom matters" were spreading throughout the city, and people were reciting a satirical poem about him being strong on the outside but weak on the inside. Xu Mother heard the poem and was visibly shocked. Later, Xu Zilu confronted Ling Se, holding her responsible for the rumors about his impotence spreading everywhere.
Ling Se denied directly spreading "that specific" rumor but admitted to gathering the information and intending to spread "other" negative things about him because he had tricked her, threatened to sell her belongings, and forced her to copy books and stay home. She claimed she hadn't anticipated the rumors escalating to this level and argued that they both shared responsibility. She insisted she was handling the situation and the rumors would be gone by tomorrow.
Just then, Xu Mother arrived, having heard the rumors, and called three renowned doctors (Doctor Wang, Doctor Liu, and Doctor Tian) to diagnose Xu Zilu's supposed condition. Xu Zilu protested that he was not sick, but Xu Mother insisted, saying she had paid the doctors to keep quiet and that his "illness" was critical to the family's future. The doctors proposed various examination methods, further irritating Xu Zilu.
A helper even chimed in, claiming to have a similar condition and offering advice on dietary supplements, which Xu Zilu quickly shut down. Annoyed, Xu Zilu left despite his mother's pleas. He found Ling Se and warned her that since the issue started because of her, if she didn't stop the rumors, neither of them would have peace. He pushed past her. Fuding arrived, asking if Xu Zilu had confirmed Ling Se was responsible for the rumors.
Episode 7 Recap
Linchun City buzzed with gossip about Xu Zilu. At Fulai Inn, Liu Yeniang teased Ling Se, calling her a poor dear sister living like a widow. Ling Se, frustrated, pressed Liu Yeniang for the interest money she was due. As she collected the money, Nosy Parker approached, boasting about the effectiveness of his publicity. Ling Se was furious, confronting him for spreading rumors about Xu Zilu's "bedroom secrets," which now involved her.
Nosy Parker claimed rumors were uncontrollable and he couldn't be blamed. Ling Se demanded he find a way to suppress the gossip, giving him the money she just received to fund the effort.
Nosy Parker then publicly announced he would give ten coins to anyone who stopped talking about Xu Zilu's poor health, leading to a new wave of rumors suggesting Xu Zilu was trying to buy silence because he lacked ability and was "biting off more than he could chew." Xu Zilu overheard this while conducting business and was deeply embarrassed, leaving quickly. Ling Se felt remorse for having previously wronged Xu Zilu and for the trouble the rumors were causing him.
She offered to do anything she could to help. Xu Zilu reassured her, stating that the cancellation of the cooperation with the Tao family was due to his own reasons, not hers, and she shouldn't feel guilty.
Ling Se learned from Ping'er that the crucial pepper needed for Xu Zilu's Jiuchongtian Incense formula was destroyed in a fire at the port, and with the Tao family cutting off supply, he had no way to get more unless he traded his exclusive formula. She was worried about the dire situation. Coincidentally, she was meeting Pavarotti, a Western merchant she had previously helped. While eating a meal of roast lamb, Pavarotti generously added a large amount of pepper.
Ling Se, realizing the abundance, excitedly asked how much pepper he had. Pavarotti replied he had several sacks. Ling Se immediately took Pavarotti to Xu Zilu. Xu Zilu offered to buy the pepper at a high market price, ten taels per kilo. However, Pavarotti, declaring Xu Zilu his friend, refused payment and insisted on giving the pepper to him for free. With the crucial pepper problem solved, Xu Zilu thanked Ling Se for her timely assistance.
Ling Se then promised to help resolve the issue of the persistent rumors as well. Xu Zilu suggested she not bother, saying people would eventually forget. Ling Se insisted she must find a way, feeling she owed him. Xu Zilu, in a moment of dry humor, asked if she planned to stage a public performance to dispel the rumors. Ling Se, inspired by the idea, replied that Xu Zilu was indeed smart and declared she had a plan.
To implement her plan, Ling Se invited several of the city's most talkative women to the Xu mansion under the guise of a barbecue. Meanwhile, she entered Xu Zilu's study, informing him that the "audience" was in place and she was ready to begin their "performance" to dispel the rumors. Xu Zilu told her to leave, but Ling Se countered that her leaving now would only confirm the rumors of his supposed illness. Reluctantly, Xu Zilu allowed her to stay.
Ling Se's initial plan involved shaking the bed vigorously, but she discovered Xu Zilu's redwood bed was exceptionally sturdy, custom-made and built not to make noise. Her plan ruined, she decided to saw the bed legs. The strenuous task left her arms numb, and she was about to give up and leave when Xu Zilu stopped her, insisting she stay in his room for the night as leaving would solidify the rumors.
Ling Se asked where she would sleep, and Xu Zilu told her she could sleep anywhere but the bed. She settled on the table, eventually falling asleep. After finishing his work, Xu Zilu saw her asleep and gently covered her with a blanket. As he went to sit on the bed, it collapsed with a loud crash, sending him tumbling to the floor.
The noise woke Ling Se, who, seeing him on the ground, jokingly asked why he was giving her a deep bow in the middle of the night. Outside, the women gathered for the barbecue heard the noises and were convinced the rumors about Xu Zilu were false, cheering that he was strong as ever. Earlier, Ling Se's father returned home and expressed concern to his wife that Ling Se might be responsible for the rumors about Xu Zilu.
His wife criticized Ling Se for being restless even after marriage. Ling father worried that if Xu Zilu's mother became resentful of Ling Se, it could jeopardize their business dealings with the Xu family, which he called "long-term benefits." Ling mother suggested they act proactively before Xu Zilu's mother could express her displeasure, by hosting a banquet for the Xu family to apologize.
Ling father agreed it was a good strategy, acknowledging it might cost them some dignity, but prioritizing the long-term business interests. The Ling family sent an invitation to the Xu family. Upon receiving it, Ling Se advised Xu Zilu's mother not to go, suggesting they first find out the real reason for the invitation, as it wasn't a holiday.
Xu Zilu's mother felt it would be disrespectful not to attend, especially since she hadn't visited the Ling family since Ling Se's marriage. Understanding Ling Se's concern was well-intentioned, she decided she would go, but asked Xu Zilu to accompany Ling Se, and instructed him to ensure the gifts were prepared carefully so Ling Se wouldn't lose face. Xu Zilu agreed.
As they prepared to leave, Ling Se playfully suggested they lie to Xu Zilu's mother and say they went, citing his busy schedule and her fear of embarrassing him. Xu Zilu dismissed the idea, noting that Ling father was now his father-in-law and business partner, and not attending would be disrespectful. Ling Se offered him ten coins, claiming it was all she had left after paying to suppress the rumors, and joked he could accept payment.
Xu Zilu lightheartedly countered by asking for a hundred taels. Unbeknownst to most, Wang Zhujue, Ling Se's acquaintance from her classics lesson, where she famously didn't know what 'Liu Shang Qu Shui' was and declared she would host one, was planning to host his own 'Wine Cups Floating Feast' in three days, aiming to make history.
He instructed his subordinate to send invitations to scholars and guests, specifically excluding those with poor reputations like Xu Zilu, but including Xu Zilu's wife, Ling Se, and her maid Ping'er. Ling Se's brother, Ling Shuo, was involved in assisting Wang Zhujue with the arrangements. Ling Shuo then privately asked Wang Zhujue to attend the dinner at the Ling mansion to support Ling Se, as their father would likely criticize her to curry favor with Xu Zilu.
Wang Zhujue readily agreed to help. At the dinner at the Ling Mansion, Wang Zhujue arrived, stating he was representing his father the governor, who was too busy to attend but wished to acknowledge the cooperation between the two families. During the meal, Ling father began to harshly lecture Ling Se, telling her she was inconsiderate for not serving her husband and elders, and reminding her that a wife must "follow her husband's rules."
Wang Zhujue abruptly interrupted, claiming that Xu Young Madam had suffered greatly. Despite Ling Se's denials, Wang Zhujue accused Xu Zilu of being a scumbag who publicly humiliated his wife late at night, making her a citywide joke and leaving her defenseless when kidnapped – accusations seemingly based on the very rumors Ling Se was trying to dispel.
Ling father, surprisingly, agreed with Wang Zhujue's harsh words towards Ling Se, telling Xu Zilu that his daughter was ill-tempered and wild, mixing with all sorts of people, and that Xu Zilu should discipline her severely without regard for her dignity, so long as it didn't affect the relationship between the two families. Xu Zilu seemed taken aback by Ling father's unexpected agreement.
Episode 8 Recap
Xu Zilu asserted his position to Mr. Ling, stating that Ling Se is now Young Madam Xu of the Xu Mansion and he is the one who will protect and care for her. He made it clear that his cooperation with Mr. and Mrs. Ling was solely out of respect for Ling Se, urging them to understand this point before leaving with Ling Se. Ling Se was touched by his defense, and their relationship became closer.
Back at the Xu Mansion, Xu Zilu found himself secretly pleased looking at the gloves Ling Se had given him. Fu Ding noticed his unusual happiness since returning from the Ling Mansion and playfully teased him. Fu Ding then informed Xu Zilu that Young Madam seemed to be getting quite close to Wang Zhujue lately and was even planning to attend his upcoming Wine Cups Floating Feast. Hearing this news left Xu Zilu feeling bothered.
Wang Zhujue had prepared elaborately for his Wine Cups Floating Feast at Fulai Inn, anticipating many guests. However, after waiting for a long time, no one arrived. Eventually, only Ling Se and Ping'er came. Even Ling Shuo didn't show up. Tao Meili arrived and told them not to wait, explaining that Wang Zixuan had gotten Xu Qiuhe to make Ling Shuo drunk and had threatened everyone else not to attend the feast.
Ping'er tried to comfort Wang Zhujue, telling him not to be sad and that she thought he was a good person. Tao Meili remarked that Ling Se was uncultured for not knowing what a Wine Cups Floating Feast was. Ling Se challenged Tao Meili to explain it herself, but Tao Meili couldn't.
Ping'er then stood up and eloquently explained the meaning and origin of the event, referencing a great calligrapher placing wine cups in a stream to float, requiring anyone the cup stopped in front of to compose a poem or drink as a penalty. Meanwhile, on the street, Xu Zilu spotted a wagon with the Xu's mark on its bags. Finding it strange, he followed the wagon.
Fu Ding, who had been looking for Xu Zilu, caught up to him and heard Ling Se's voice from a building above. Fu Ding suspected Xu Zilu was just using the wagon as an excuse to see Ling Se. Seizing the opportunity, Xu Zilu decided to go into the Fulai Inn where Wang Zhujue's feast was being held. Xu Zilu and Wang Zhujue confronted each other at the feast, immediately falling into an argument.
The onlookers were puzzled, wondering why two people who grew up together had such a hostile relationship. The truth was eventually revealed: when they were children, Xu Zilu was often dressed as a girl by his mother. Wang Zhujue, believing he was a girl, developed a crush on him. Later, upon discovering Xu Zilu was a boy, Wang Zhujue felt deceived and had held a grudge ever since. Suddenly, Wang Zixuan arrived with a group of people at the feast.
Seeing the guests playing pitch-pot, he started insulting Wang Zhujue. The others present couldn't stand Wang Zixuan's behavior and spoke up in defense of Wang Zhujue. Angered, Wang Zixuan began throwing things, nearly hitting Ping'er before Wang Zhujue intercepted it. The situation escalated into a brawl between the two groups. During the fight, water was accidentally splashed out of the window, landing on the very wagon Xu Zilu had been following.
The inn owner, hearing the commotion and seeing the damage inside, was furious and presented Wang Zhujue with a bill for the expenses and repairs. Everyone quickly slipped away, leaving Wang Zhujue with the cost. The goods on the wagon were tea leaves used by the Xu family for making incense, which were ruined by the water. A servant was distraught, unsure of what to do.
Another servant suggested contacting the Young Master, but the first servant quickly stopped him, insisting Young Master shouldn't know. By chance, Xu Zilu, who had just come out, overheard their conversation. Fu Ding confirmed that the goods did indeed belong to the Xu family. Back at the Xu Mansion, Xu Zilu questioned the servant about the tea leaves.
The servant explained that Third Master Xu had ordered the batch urgently from the tea estate to "form a connection" with Prince Xian's Mansion, and the paperwork was delayed because of the rush. He lamented that after arriving in Linchun, the tea got soaked while he was having a quick meal. Xu Zilu, upon hearing this, offered a solution: leave the wet tea leaves and get new, good quality tea from Manager Wan to deliver.
The servant expressed his gratitude and pledged his loyalty to the Xu family. Xu Zilu warned him that he was only overlooking the mistake because of Third Master Xu and would not tolerate such carelessness again. Desiring to change Ling Se's perception of him and win her affection, Xu Zilu sought advice from Fu Ding. Fu Ding suggested taking Ling Se shopping, promising that buying her things would surely change her opinion and make her like him.
Ling Se, who had planned to wear a red dress and go to the casino that day, was stopped by Xu Zilu. He told her he was free to go shopping and would pay for anything she liked. Ling Se was delighted by his offer and happily agreed. On the street, Xu Zilu generously bought many items for Ling Se. Ling Se was so surprised by his spending, she asked if he had hit his head the previous day.
Despite her teasing, she sincerely thanked him for his generosity. She then instructed him to have the purchased items sent back to the mansion while she and Ping'er headed to the casino, planning to win big. They arrived at the Yile Casino for its anniversary event, dressed in bright red, and met Wang Zhujue and Half-Immortal Liu who were also there to try their luck.
Episode 9 Recap
Ling Se and Wang Zhujue left the gambling house disappointed. Wang Zhujue lamented that his father would surely punish him severely for losing his allowance. Ping'er, feeling sympathetic, offered to lend him money she won from a small lottery to help him pay his debt to Liu Yeniang, and even offered to contribute more if needed. Ling Se intervened, advising against simply bailing him out and emphasizing the need for a proper business to earn money together.
Upon returning to the Xu Mansion, Ling Se overheard Fuding complaining that Liu Yeniang was charging them to store items at the Fulai Inn. Ling Se inquired about the situation and learned it involved a batch of tea that had gotten damp. Fuding explained that the tea was unusable for making perfume, which required high-quality leaves, although it could still be drunk after drying. Ling Se then decided to ask Xu Zilu about buying the damp tea.
Ling Se approached Xu Zilu with dessert and claimed she made it. Xu Zilu tasted it and recognized it as being from the Xu Mansion, knowing she hadn't made it herself. Ling Se offered to make him some real dessert later. Sensing she had something to ask, Xu Zilu prompted her. Ling Se revealed her intention to buy the damp tea from Fulai Inn.
Xu Zilu stated he could sell it to others for fifty taels and asked how much she would offer. Ling Se pleaded with him, acting cute and offering all the money she had, suggesting a profit share after she used her "magical touch" to process the tea. Amused by her persistence, Xu Zilu eventually agreed to give her the tea for free. Ling Se was surprised, suspecting he had an ulterior motive, but he assured her he did not.
Ling Se then felt relieved. Mother Xu noticed Ling Se was not eating with them lately and asked Xu Zilu what she had been doing. Xu Zilu informed his mother that Ling Se was busy experimenting with the damp tea to create new things, hoping to sell them. Mother Xu was happy about Ling Se's industriousness and encouraged Xu Zilu to assist her. Xu Zilu said he would go when he had time.
Mother Xu told Xu Zilu to take some food and visit Ling Se, pleased that her son seemed to be showing interest. Xu Zilu took food to Ling Se's room and found her unsteady. He quickly helped her sit down and learned she was tea-drunk from trying countless recipes.
Expressing his concern, he urged her to take better care of herself and promised to help her taste test after he finished his work, suggesting she keep milk handy to counteract tea intoxication. Ling Se continued her experiments, adding pepper to the tea. As she was about to taste the mixture, Xu Zilu stopped her and tried it himself, finding it extremely spicy and causing his tongue to go numb.
Ling Se insisted she needed to taste it herself to know how to improve the recipe. While trying to stop her, Xu Zilu accidentally spilled the tea-pepper mixture into a cup of milk. Ling Se decided to try the resulting drink and found the taste quite good. Xu Zilu agreed it was decent but felt the pepper was overpowering the tea flavor. They eventually succeeded in developing a usable recipe for "Aromatic Tea."
Ling Se brought the Aromatic Tea to Fulai Inn and offered free samples to customers. Everyone who tried it found it delicious, leading to many inquiries about purchasing it. Seeing the positive reception, Ling Se decided to develop the tea business. Xu Zilu discussed her plans with her and suggested opening a shop, explaining that selling from a shop would allow her to set a higher price and increase her profits compared to a stall.
Ling Se was excited by the idea and rushed off to discuss it with Ping'er, leaving Xu Zilu feeling disappointed, as he had intended to offer her a shop of his own. Later, while having a meal with Wang Zhujue and Ping'er, Ling Se learned that Wang Zhujue owned a shop.
Knowing he was in debt to Liu Yeniang and needed money, she persuaded him to lend her the shop in exchange for a five percent profit share, presenting it as a mutually beneficial partnership. Wang Zhujue, seeing the opportunity to make money effortlessly, agreed and went to retrieve the title deed from his father. Meanwhile, Xu Zilu, contemplating how to give Ling Se a shop, was advised by Fuding to simply give her the title deed directly.
Xu Zilu resolved to do so but was dismayed to discover that Ling Se had already partnered with Wang Zhujue. He left in disappointment. Separately, Xu Zilu began to suspect issues with the Xu family in Furong City, possibly related to the damp tea incident. He devised a plan involving reviewing twelve months of their shipment orders, believing this would expose any wrongdoing. He instructed a staff member to quickly organize the records.
In another scene, Wang Zhujue attempted to placate his father, Magistrate Wang, who was concerned about his recent losses, by presenting him with a "Scalp Soothing Massager," described as a "Gadget that makes Father happy." Magistrate Wang was skeptical of the device, calling it a "murder weapon." Mr. Tao arrived to discuss organizing a charity donation for refugees with Magistrate Wang.
Magistrate Wang also mentioned a difficult case he was discreetly handling involving a runaway maid, acknowledging the challenge of finding her. Mr. Tao offered assistance with creating a portrait and posting notices. The next day, Ling Se prepared to visit Wang Zhujue's shop. Xu Zilu tried to convince her to go shopping with him instead, promising to buy her anything she wanted, but she declined, insisting she had an important matter to attend to with Wang Zhujue's shop.
Despite her refusal, Xu Zilu followed her, telling her to ignore him and focus on her own tasks. Xu Zilu received news that a man he was looking for, Manager Wan, had gone to Wanhua House. Believing Manager Wan was involved in the Furong City issue and had taken his bait, Xu Zilu instructed his staff to split up and apprehend him.
Ling Se saw Xu Zilu and his staff and questioned if he was following her, noticing one of his staff members nearby. Xu Zilu told her she would understand shortly. Manager Wan realized he had been trapped when he reviewed the accounts, which seemed correct but exposed their scheme. He attempted to flee. Xu Zilu's staff pursued him, and Manager Wan tried to talk his way out of the situation by claiming it was a misunderstanding before running off again. The chase continued.
Episode 10 Recap
During the capture of Chen Yun and Chen Bin, Ling Se and Xu Zilu accidentally collided and kissed, leading to an awkward moment between them. Ling Se suggested they treat it as a casual interaction between brothers, which angered Xu Zilu as he felt she was too intimate with her brothers. Ling Se then proposed they simply consider it an accident and move on, a suggestion Xu Zilu grudgingly accepted, telling himself it was just an accident.
That night, Ling Se dreamt she acquired a golden pig and excitedly kissed it repeatedly. To her shock, the pig transformed into Xu Zilu's face, startling her awake and revealing it was only a dream. Interrogating Chen Yun and Chen Bin, they confessed to colluding to steal high-quality fragrance from the warehouse to sell on the black market. They claimed they were forced into the crime because their mother was seriously ill.
Xu Mother was furious upon learning a mole existed within the family and felt they had betrayed the trust and nurturing they received from Xu family's Uncle. Meanwhile, Ping'er was arrested by Magistrate Wang as a murder suspect and imprisoned. Ling Se became extremely worried upon hearing this.
She went to Magistrate Wang, who explained the interrogation was difficult because Ping'er refused to reveal her true identity, making her the primary suspect due to the lack of progress in the investigation. Ling Se was allowed to visit Ping'er in jail, and they shared a tearful embrace.
Ling Se expressed her belief in Ping'er's innocence and urged her to reveal her identity, explaining the severity of the situation, including the risk of being sent to the Ministry of Justice if she continued to conceal the truth. Ping'er finally confessed that she is the granddaughter of the current Minister of the Bureau of Astrology and had run away from an arranged marriage in Furong City.
She stressed the need for secrecy, warning that revealing her identity would lead to being hunted down, and pleaded with Ling Se to keep it confidential. Ling Se promised to keep her identity a secret and vowed to find a way to help her. Ling Se then requested Magistrate Wang to continue investigating for the true murderer, arguing that convicting Ping'er without concrete evidence would be a miscarriage of justice, which Magistrate Wang acknowledged he would avoid.
Back at the Xu Mansion, Ling Se was unable to eat or rest, consumed by worry for Ping'er. Xu Zilu brought her pastries, urging her to eat and assuring her that Ping'er would be alright. Ling Se explained she couldn't eat thinking about Ping'er's hardship in jail, recalling her promise to share everything with her, and lamenting her helplessness. Xu Zilu asked how she and Ping'er had met.
Ling Se recounted the story: she met Ping'er when she was selling zongzi on the street and saw Ping'er looking hungry and distressed. Ling Se kindly offered her a zongzi. Ping'er, after eating a few bites, saw a small beggar boy and gave him the rest of the zongzi. Touched, Ling Se gave the beggar another zongzi and gave Ping'er a fresh one, asking why she shared when she was so hungry. Ping'er replied she felt the beggar was hungrier.
Noting Ping'er's seemingly good clothes, Ling Se asked about her situation. Ping'er explained she was a maid from Furong City who had been driven out by her master and madam. She had wages with her but gave the money to poor people she met along the way. Seeing that Ping'er had nowhere to go, Ling Se invited her to stay with her, promising that if she had food, Ping'er would too.
Ling Se told Xu Zilu that Ping'er was like family to her, and Xu Zilu responded by offering his help. Word spread throughout the city that the Xu family was harboring a criminal who had allegedly killed a high-ranking official from Furong City. This caused significant damage to their business, with many customers canceling orders and partnerships. Xu Mother expressed her concern, and some expressed doubts about Ping'er. Ling Se was saddened that people didn't believe Ping'er was innocent.
Xu Zilu advised the canceling businessmen to wait, promising to talk to Magistrate Wang about issuing a public announcement to dispel the rumors and catch the true killer, which would naturally resolve the situation. Ling Se's father also arrived, urging Xu Zilu to have Ling Se sever ties with Ping'er to protect the business. Xu Zilu agreed that separating Ping'er from the Xu family could resolve the business issue but tried to clarify he wasn't abandoning Ping'er.
Ling Se was upset, feeling Xu Zilu was just like her father— prioritizing profit over people. She told Xu Zilu that if he intended to cut ties with Ping'er, he might as well cut ties with her too, and she left in anger.
Ling Father then called Ling Se short-sighted and told Xu Zilu to get rid of the maid quickly, but Xu Zilu insisted that Ping'er was part of the Xu family and he had his own ways of handling the business. Ling Se went to Fulai Inn and complained to Liu Yeniang about Xu Zilu.
Tao Meili was present and sarcastically remarked that Ling Se was acting like a petty woman in a storybook, advising her to rely on her own capabilities instead of men. This exchange inspired Ling Se; realizing she should find her own way to save Ping'er, she decided not to return to the Xu Mansion and requested to stay at Fulai Inn.
Later, Xu Zilu, learning of Ling Se's whereabouts, instructed his servant to check on her at the inn and send food and supplies to Ping'er in prison, including an extra blanket. He also had Chen Yun and Chen Bin released. Ling Se explained her plan to Liu Yeniang to use a contact called "Nosy Parker" to investigate outside women who had recently arrived in the city, needing to stay at the inn for convenience, especially to avoid Xu Zilu. Liu Yeniang reluctantly agreed to let her stay, but with conditions on the duration.
Episode 11 Recap
One evening, as Ling Se was preparing to bathe, she saw a figure with disheveled hair and mistook them for Liu Yeniang. Approaching to pat their shoulder, she discovered it was Chef Hua, and furthermore, he possessed impressive martial arts skills. Ling Se returned to the mansion intending to pack and continue staying outside.
However, Xu Zilu stopped her, informing her that Governor Wang considered her continuous presence outside the government office over the past few days a serious obstruction of public service and that she would be arrested if she persisted. Ling Se, feeling indignant, retorted that it would be convenient as she could then keep Ping'er company. Xu Zilu urged her to stop causing trouble, assuring her he would help with Ping'er's situation.
Ling Se refused his offer, insisting she would rescue Ping'er herself. Xu Zilu then ordered the household servants to keep Ling Se confined to the mansion and prevent her from leaving. Xu Zilu planned to seek out Hong Eight Master for information regarding the fugitive. He instructed Fuding to return to the Xu Mansion to watch Ling Se.
Ling Se, having changed into a servant's clothing, attempted to sneak out by climbing a wall but was anticipated and caught by Fuding, who was waiting there. Unexpectedly, Liu Yeniang appeared and knocked Fuding unconscious from behind. Liu Yeniang explained that Ling Se had cleverly hidden a note within a bun delivered earlier, which she understood as a call for help. With Liu Yeniang's assistance, Ling Se successfully escaped.
Ling Se then headed to the location where Hong Eight Master was said to be. Xu Zilu also arrived there, having likewise sought out Hong Eight Master. Both were surprised to discover that the legendary Hong Eight Master was actually Ling Se herself. Ling Se explained that the "Hong Men" was merely a name for a group of beggars and orphans she had gathered and protected after seeing them abused on the streets.
She founded the group to care for them and help fight off actual bullies. Ling Se realized that Xu Zilu had genuinely intended to help her all along and had been previously misunderstood. She apologized to Xu Zilu, who also acknowledged that his communication had been unclear, leading to her misunderstanding. Having resolved their differences, Ling Se admitted that even she, as Hong Eight Master, currently had no leads on the true culprit.
Xu Zilu suggested they return to the mansion to formulate a new plan together. Following Ping'er's implication in the case, the Xu family's business suffered significantly, while Mr. Tao's business boomed. Ling Se's father decided to shift his allegiance. He approached Mr. Tao, expressing that he found their business philosophies more aligned and wished to collaborate with Mr. Tao on his sachet business, ending his previous arrangement with the Xu family.
He initially proposed a 50/50 profit split, but Mr. Tao demanded a 70/30 split in his favor. Ling's father reluctantly agreed to the unfavorable terms. He then sent a formal agreement of rescission to the Xu family, holding them entirely responsible for the contract termination and demanding compensation.
Xu Zilu instructed his staff to pay the compensation as requested, despite its unreasonableness, stating clearly that this was the only time and there would be no possibility of future cooperation between the Xu family and Ling's father. While Ling Se was with some Hong Men members, she was informed that a conflict had broken out between members of the Hong Men and Mr. Tao's staff.
The incident occurred when Mr. Tao's employees harassed and overturned the stall of an elderly vendor who was set up near their premises, demanding compensation. Seeing the injustice, some Hong Men members intervened, leading to a fight. Ling Se quickly gathered her group and went to the scene, confronting Mr. Tao's staff for bullying the elderly man. A skirmish ensued, and the Hong Men members managed to drive off Mr. Tao's staff.
Mr. Tao, arriving shortly after to find his employees beaten, became furious. He declared he would report the Hong Men to Governor Wang and seek to have them eradicated. Upon hearing of Mr. Tao's plan to enlist the Governor, Ling Se devised a counter-strategy rather than fleeing. She proposed luring Mr. Tao and the Governor's forces into a trap.
Ling Se sent a challenge letter to Mr. Tao, daring him to meet her at a specific location and time for a confrontation, pointedly calling him names if he failed to appear. Enraged by the letter, Mr. Tao took it directly to Governor Wang, asking him to bring his men to apprehend the Hong Men at the designated meeting spot. Mr. Tao and a contingent of the Governor's men arrived at the agreed-upon location.
Mr. Tao loudly called out for Hong Eight Master, but the Hong Men members were initially out of sight. When they did appear, they did not engage in a direct fight but instead used guerilla tactics and minor tricks to harass and confuse Mr. Tao and the guards before disappearing again, leaving Mr. Tao frustrated.
While Mr. Tao and Governor Wang's men were preoccupied with the skirmish involving the Hong Men, Xu Zilu and Ling Se were enacting their own plan to catch the true fugitive. Knowing that Governor Wang had ordered the city gates sealed and was strictly scrutinizing outsiders, they reasoned that the killer must still be within Linchun City and would likely attempt to secure a way to leave.
They anticipated that the commotion caused by Mr. Tao and the Hong Men would draw guards away from the government office, creating a moment of reduced security—the perfect opportunity for the fugitive to act. Xu Zilu strategically left a specific section of the mansion wall near the Archival Repository unguarded as a deliberate lure. After a period of waiting, a masked individual finally appeared. Xu Zilu and Ling Se confronted the person.
However, the masked individual displayed superior fighting skills, managing to knock down Xu Zilu and then escape despite Ling Se's attempts to stop them. Guards arrived shortly after the masked person had fled, confirming that something had been stolen from the Archival Repository, although they were not yet certain what it was. Xu Zilu, with the help of Young Master Wang (the Governor's son), began investigating what the masked person had stolen.
Young Master Wang, under the guise of bringing refreshments to his father's Counselor, subtly inquired about the stolen archive file. He learned that the missing item was the personnel record from Wanhua House. The Counselor mentioned that while there had been no records of foreign women arriving during the relevant time frame (July/August), there was a male cook from Furong City. Young Master Wang relayed this information to Xu Zilu.
Discussing this new detail, Xu Zilu and Ling Se considered a new possibility: that the killer might be a man disguised as a woman. This idea brought Ling Se's earlier encounter with Chef Hua into sharp focus. She recalled his figure being surprisingly narrow and the distinct, heavy scent of rouge on him – a type of fragrance exclusively supplied by the Xu family to Wanhua House.
Ling Se realized her initial mistake in identifying him in the dark at the inn was likely due to his disguise. She remembered how he had grasped her throat firmly, confirming his unexpected strength and martial skill for a cook, further fueling their suspicion that he was the fugitive who stole the roster after feeling exposed. Liu Yeniang then added that she had recently seen Chef Hua at Liangyuan Pier.
Realizing that a cargo ship was likely departing from the pier that very night, they quickly rushed there to intercept him. As they were waiting at the pier, Young Master Wang arrived and, shouting out "Hua Ruluan!" , inadvertently alerted the suspect, confirming his identity as the male cook. Hua Ruluan attempted to flee, displaying remarkable lightness skills. Xu Zilu, Ling Se, and the others immediately pursued him. In a desperate move, Young Master Wang grabbed a slingshot from a nearby child, attempting to stop Hua Ruluan's escape.
Episode 12 Recap
Following her escape attempt, the culprit was apprehended with the assistance of Xu Zilu and Wang Zhujue. Ping'er was subsequently released from prison. Ling Se expressed her relief at Ping'er's return, noting that she seemed to have gained weight, which Ping'er attributed to having little else to do in prison besides eat. Ling Se instructed Ping'er to specifically thank Wang Zhujue, crediting him with personally catching the culprit this time, though she warned against over-praising him.
Ping'er readily agreed to thank him sincerely. Wang Zhujue, dressed ostentatiously, came to visit Ping'er, expressing concern that she had suffered and lost weight in prison, contrary to her appearance. Ping'er assured him she was well-treated and hadn't lost weight, thanking him for saving her and offering to repay him. Wang Zhujue dismissed her gratitude, promising no one would bully her as long as he was around.
Ping'er offered to treat him to a meal, but Wang Zhujue had already prepared a feast of her favorite dishes. During the meal, Wang Zhujue shared his happiness that his father had commended him, saying he would surely bring glory to their family. Ping'er affirmed his excellence and suggested he focus on the Provincial Examination as a way to achieve this glory, even though he had failed before.
Inspired, Wang Zhujue asked Ping'er to be his teacher, finding her explanations easy to understand. However, Ling Se immediately objected to Ping'er teaching Wang Zhujue. She explained her need for Ping'er's help as she was short on funds and staff for her upcoming tea shop, fearing it wouldn't succeed otherwise. Ping'er, doubting her own usefulness and large appetite, felt she might be a burden and still preferred teaching Wang Zhujue.
Ling Se insisted the lack of funds was the main issue, not Ping'er's eating. Xu Zilu suggested Ling Se borrow money from her friend, Liu Yeniang, who ran an inn. Ling Se initially voiced a principle against borrowing money, but later approached Liu Yeniang (referred to as Yeniang) and Tao Meili about investing and becoming shareholders in her tea shop.
She enthusiastically presented her plan, emphasizing a supplier discount and calculating potential profits, convincing them to invest, with Tao Meili contributing a surprising 100 taels. Xu Zilu, busy with matters related to the Assessment of Imperial Merchants for his perfume workshop, received a visit from Ling Se. She brought him a new product and invited him to the tea shop opening the next day, which he said he would attend if time permitted.
On the opening day, Ling Se, Ping'er, and Tao Meili were busy serving a rush of customers. All their stock sold out, leaving them exhausted but happy. They decided to put off hiring more staff to save money for now. Tao Meili and Ping'er left, with Ping'er heading off to tutor Wang Zhujue. Meanwhile, Xu Zilu was delayed by a persistent, tipsy business partner.
After finally getting away late in the evening, he rushed to the tea shop only to find it closed. Ling Se, standing outside, saw him arrive sweaty and out of breath. He explained he had just been exercising and offered her an orange as a congratulatory gift for the opening. They then walked home together.
Ping'er attempted to tutor Wang Zhujue in the Book of Rites, but he feigned inability to see or stay awake, using various tricks like crossing his eyes and pretending to be blind. Ping'er grew frustrated, warning him he wouldn't sleep if he didn't finish the work, which he reluctantly accepted, admitting he couldn't fool her. After the successful opening day, Ling Se's tea shop saw a sharp decline in business, with days passing without customers.
She became disheartened, doubting the quality of her products. Ping'er visited during this lull, explaining her absence the previous day was due to tutoring Wang Zhujue, who had made her fall asleep with his antics. Ling Se wished for even just one customer. Xu Zilu found Ling Se visibly upset and crying. She denied it was tears, calling it dew, and voiced her frustration and self-doubt about her business struggling.
Xu Zilu comforted her, assuring her the tea was good with room for improvement, and quoting the full saying that things are difficult at the beginning, in the middle, and most difficult at the end. He then invited her to a trade fair the next day, explaining that his social status required him to bring a companion and suggesting it could help her understand the preferences of wealthy women, which would benefit her business.
Ling Se agreed, citing her current difficulties. At the trade fair, Xu Zilu was immediately pulled away by a business associate after arriving. Ling Se was stopped at the entrance for not having an invitation letter. A gentleman nearby, witnessing her predicament, found a dropped invitation letter and presented it to her, allowing her entry.
Inside, she was initially met with critical stares and comments from several ladies who questioned her presence, her name, and her clothing, especially upon learning she was the Young Madam of the Xu Family. She attempted to share some of the snacks provided, but they were dismissive. Someone informed Xu Zilu that his wife, a newcomer, needed to be introduced to the prominent ladies as they could be challenging to deal with alone.
Xu Zilu went to check on her, only to find her surprisingly getting along well with the ladies, who were eagerly listening to her cooking tips for rice and egg custard. The ladies teased Xu Zilu for secretly observing, implying he was worried about his wife and commenting on their seemingly close relationship.
Ling Se later remarked to Xu Zilu that she was surprised by how wealthy women socialized, and he reiterated that understanding their preferences was good for her business, confirming he had brought her for that purpose, albeit describing it as "incidental." Ling Se's tea shop business remained poor, leading her to spend time at the Fulai Inn, where she encountered Mrs. Qiu drinking alone and looking distressed.
Mrs. Qiu complained about her difficult relationship with her mother-in-law and that Ling Se's previous cooking advice hadn't helped. Feeling sorry for her, Ling Se decided to help. At the Xu Mansion, Ling Se consulted Xu mother about assisting Mrs. Qiu. Although initially hesitant to interfere in family matters, Xu mother agreed to Ling Se's plan: invite Mrs. Qiu's mother-in-law over for a game of mahjong and stage a situation to soften her stance.
During the mahjong game with Mrs. Qiu's mother-in-law, Ling Se offered some Furong Cakes she made, which the elder woman initially criticized. However, Xu mother subtly praised the cakes, remarking they were better than her daughter-in-law's, and mentioned that Mrs. Qiu had recently come to Ling Se to learn cooking specifically to please her mother-in-law. Mrs. Qiu's mother-in-law remained unimpressed, complaining about her own daughter-in-law keeping her son and grandson from her.
Seizing the opportunity, Ling Se began to cry, apologizing to Xu mother for not having provided her with a grandchild yet, lamenting that she wished she could contribute to the family like Mrs. Qiu had by having children. This performance caused Mrs. Qiu's mother-in-law to reflect on her own daughter-in-law's role in giving her a grandson, realizing that every family has its own difficulties and advising them to stop crying and play.
Following the incident, the tea shop, now referred to as the Scented Aromatic Tea Shop, saw a dramatic increase in customers, which Ling Se believed was thanks to Mrs. Qiu's promotion. Ping'er was amazed by the sudden popularity and suggested the customers would become repeat visitors. Amidst the bustling activity, Xu Zilu arrived, and Ling Se, busy with orders, immediately put him to work helping serve customers.
She mentioned how busy she was and needed more help, expressing her ambition to open a branch next year, stating she had already decided on the name, Scented Aromatic Tea Shop, and planned to hire versatile and eloquent staff. Ling Se made a special "Wish You Prosperity" milk tea for Xu Zilu, thanking him for his guidance. He downplayed his help, took the drink, and left happily.
The gentleman who had helped Ling Se with the invitation at the trade fair was standing outside, observing Xu Zilu leaving. He then smiled strangely before entering the busy tea shop himself.
Episode 13 Recap
Ling Se was experimenting with new products, telling Xu Zilu she was inspired by a customer to create items with multiple uses, such as turning aromatic tea into milk cake for different textures of the same flavor to save money and offer novelty. Xu Zilu asked if she would like to join the Chamber of Commerce, explaining that as a shop owner, she was qualified.
He described the Chamber's purpose as mutual assistance, providing information and resources, and noted it would be helpful for her goal of opening branch stores. He revealed he had already completed the application procedures and only needed her signature. Ling Se, delighted at the prospect of becoming successful, initially offered to sign but then claimed her handwriting was too unique and asked Xu Zilu to sign for her.
After he confirmed she was comfortable with him signing such an important agreement, they signed it together. The goods Xu's had prepared for Prince Xian's Mansion were delivered, but the butler informed the manager that they had switched suppliers for the Jiuzhongtian incense and would not accept the shipment. Xu's manager was distressed, asking about the deposit which had already been sent to Linchun, and was told to take the goods back.
Xu Zilu's servant reported that upon inquiry, they discovered Prince Xian's side had canceled the order a long time ago but had failed to notify them. The delivery staff attempted to contact Third Uncle, who had facilitated the order, but he was traveling north for business and unreachable. Xu Zilu decided to accept the situation for now and wait for his Third Uncle's return to discuss further.
He instructed the staff in Furong City to carefully return the Jiuzhongtian incense to Linchun. His servant expressed concern that this issue might impact his three-month competition with the Tao family and the selection for Imperial Merchant. After a period of studying, Wang Zhujue took an exam and came in last place. Feeling disheartened, he concluded he was not suited for academics and suggested he should just enjoy life using the property his father, the Governor, had left him.
Ping'er encouraged him not to give up. She pointed out that although he was last, he had made significant progress compared to submitting blank papers before; now he filled the entire test sheet, which was a notable improvement. Wang Zhujue was encouraged by her words. Ling Se heard servants discussing the canceled order from Prince Xian's Mansion and worrying that the Xu family might go bankrupt, potentially affecting Xu Zilu's competition with the Tao family and the Imperial Merchant selection.
Concerned, she went to find Xu Zilu. She expressed her worries about the large quantity of unsold incense and how it might impact his ability to catch up to the Tao family's turnover before their deadline. Xu Zilu noted she was well-informed and assured her that the Xu family would be fine with him there, advising her not to believe the rumors of bankruptcy.
When she urged him not to pretend to be strong in front of her given their relationship, he clarified their bond was an unbreakable contractual relationship. She offered her help with anything except financial matters. He then asked her to accompany him to the opera that evening. She was initially confused by his request given the circumstances but agreed. The opera they watched depicted a fallen noble family and forced separation, which Ling Se found sad and unrealistic.
She worried it might make Xu Zilu feel down and suggested watching more exciting operas instead. Later, she brought snacks to his room, thinking he was upset because of the opera, but found him bathing. Flustered, she denied seeing anything and explained she just wanted to bring him food.
Xu Zilu told her he knew she was worried about the Xu family but reassured her that he had multiple ways to deal with Tao Ziran and had not relied on just one venture. The day of selecting the representative for Imperial Merchant in Furong City arrived at the Linchun Guild Hall, with the Governor presiding.
The three-month turnovers were presented: Xu family had five shops with a total of 10,000 taels, and the Tao family had three shops with 6,000 taels. The Tao family then presented a new order from Furong City for 5,000 taels, bringing their total to 11,000 taels. The Governor stated that if the Xu family had no new reports, the Tao family would be selected. Xu Zilu interrupted, announcing he had another shop that was Xu family property.
The value of the shop's deed and money (306 taels) was added, but Xu's total was still less than Tao's. Xu Zilu asked them to wait a little longer, stating he had some orders on the way. Tao Ziran taunted him, telling him to stop stalling. Just as the Governor was about to announce the result, a Western merchant named Pavarotti dramatically arrived with a large amount of banknotes, greeting Xu Zilu.
Xu Zilu explained that he had given Pavarotti some of Xu family's finest He Incense a long time ago to show to his merchant friends for potential long-term cooperation. Pavarotti confirmed the incense was excellent and popular. With Pavarotti's order, the Xu family's total turnover surpassed the Tao family's. Xu Zilu commented that he didn't necessarily predict Tao's actions but believed in being prepared. The Xu family was selected as the representative for the Imperial Merchant.
They celebrated their victory with a meal. During the celebration, Ling Se drank too much and became dizzy. Xu Zilu expressed he was sorry she had to worry about the situation. She told him they were "self people" and that her small contribution was nothing compared to him becoming the Imperial Merchant. She regretted not being able to help more but was glad the result was good because he was prepared.
She called Tao Ziran despicable and declared that if he had won, she would have taken him down using unconventional methods, promising to protect Xu Zilu from anyone who bullied him. Noticing him looking at her, she commented that he was drunk as his face was red and advised him to rest.
Later, Xu Zilu's servant noted his closeness with Ling Se and was happy that his young master finally seemed to be finding happiness, urging him to find an opportunity to confess his feelings to Ling Se. Bad news arrived for Tao Ziran: many customers were returning the sachets produced in collaboration with the Ling family, citing quality issues and demanding refunds. Tao Ziran instructed his servant to find the Ling family.
Ling father was distressed upon hearing the news; the sachets were not selling well, and now the quality issue meant the entire batch was a loss, with Tao Ziran demanding compensation. Ling father complained he had no spare money. Ling mother suggested he ask Ling Se for help, as she was married into the wealthy Xu family and her husband was now an Imperial Merchant.
Ling father went to the Xu family and asked Ling Se for 500 taels to help with the business and her brother's exam expenses. Ling Se said she didn't have the money. Ling father, knowing she was in the Chamber of Commerce, had a shop, and Xu family was Imperial Merchant, didn't believe her. Ling Se insisted her shop was new and hadn't made money yet. Ling father suggested she sell her shop.
When she refused, he called her shameless and unfilial, reminding her of the past. Ling Se retorted, questioning his actions when her mother was ill. He accused her of not acknowledging him since marrying into the Xu family. Old Madam Xu arrived and questioned the commotion, stepping in to assert that Ling Se was now her daughter-in-law within the Xu household and not for him to lecture.
Ling father quickly claimed it was just family business and left, saying he had other appointments. Old Madam Xu then comforted Ling Se and suggested they play mahjong. Trouble also struck the Tao family concerning their Jiuzhongtian order for Prince Xian's Mansion. An Eunuch from the Prince's Mansion arrived, furious that Tao Ziran had used inferior goods. Tao Ziran pleaded innocence, claiming the best materials were used.
The Eunuch mentioned that Eunuch Zhou, who had initially handled the order, had been executed for accepting bribes. The Eunuch stated Prince Xian was merciful and offered Tao Ziran a chance: if he could re-prepare the Jiuzhongtian and deliver it to Furong City within three days, the Prince would forgive the offense. Tao Ziran explained the complex process made it impossible within three days. The Eunuch stated that if he failed, he must compensate the Prince for his loss.
Tao Ziran reviewed his finances with a servant, finding only 3,000 taels in cash after expenses. The servant thought selling valuables might cover the order amount, but Tao Ziran pointed out the contract required ten times compensation for failure to deliver, totaling 50,000 taels for the 5,000 tael order. With recent returns and canceled orders for the sachets making cash flow tight, Tao Ziran realized the only way to get enough money was to sell his shops and mansion.
He attempted to sell the mansion deed. However, prospective buyers affiliated with a private bank took advantage of his desperate situation, offering only 30,000 taels for a property worth at least 50,000 taels. They admitted they couldn't produce more cash immediately and suggested he lower the price further. Tao Ziran, seeing their collusion and opportunism, became enraged and refused to sell at that price, declaring he would not sell.
The buyers warned him that no one else in Linchun could produce 30,000 taels in cash on short notice, and his only remaining option would be to sell his daughter for money. Tao Ziran was furious.
Episode 14 Recap
Tao Meili came to Ling Se, expressing her distress because she had a vague feeling something was wrong at home and her father was now selling their family assets. She was scared of having nothing and being forced to marry someone she didn't love to pay off debts. Ling Se comforted her, saying she would never be alone as long as Ling Se was there, and reminded her they were friends and business partners.
She encouraged Tao Meili that they could open many branches and live well by working hard, praising Tao Meili for her good eye in investing in her shop. Tao Meili found reassurance in Ling Se's words, feeling she could live well on her own if she just tried harder. Ling Se later spoke with Xu Zilu, mentioning Tao Meili's visit and distress.
While acknowledging Tao Ziran deserved his situation, she admitted feeling sorry for Tao Meili as a friend and wanting to help her, even if she didn't know how. Xu Zilu advised her not to worry too much. Ling Se also mentioned how difficult business was lately and noted the closure of the Linchun Tea Shop, speculating it failed due to high prices and poor taste. Xu Zilu then found Tao Ziran and offered a solution to his predicament.
He revealed he had the Jiuchongtian tea blend readily available that Tao Ziran could use to fulfill his orders. He proposed a joint venture where the profits would be split evenly between their two families. Tao Ziran was moved, questioning why Xu Zilu would help him after everything he had done against the Xu family. Xu Zilu explained that to err is human, and the past issues were partly his own responsibility.
He added that he respected the Tao family's history as an honest merchant and didn't want to see them ruined, emphasizing that harmony brings wealth. Back at Xu Zilu's, his attendant prompted him to confess his feelings to Ling Se, reminding him he had put off "the things that should be done." The attendant suggested finding out what Ling Se liked and getting it for her. Xu Zilu went to find Ling Se and asked her what she liked.
Ling Se, busy thinking about an auction item, replied she liked money and someone who "reeks of money." Xu Zilu took this literally and began designing clothing to sew copper coins onto. Ling Shuo then arrived urgently, telling Xu Zilu that their father had sent Ling Se a letter threatening to throw out their mother's memorial tablet if she didn't provide 500 taels by the end of the day. Ling Se was enraged and rushed back to the Ling Manor.
Ling Shuo, worried for his sister, urged Xu Zilu to follow her, and Xu Zilu immediately rode off. At the Ling Manor, Ling Father and Mother discussed their plan, confident that threatening the memorial tablet, which Ling Se cherished, would force her to return and provide the money needed for the Ling family to "rise again." Ling Se arrived and confronted them.
She questioned how they could threaten her mother's tablet and reminded her father that he had never cared for her and refused her wish to study like Ling Shuo, saying she didn't deserve to spend his money. She also confronted Ling Mother for selling her off for 500 taels, asking if she remembered Ling Se had called her mother.
Ling Mother accused Ling Se of being ungrateful and only caring about them now that they were in trouble and needed money. Ling Se declared that she knew they needed money and wouldn't give them a single coin. Ling Se stated she would give them the money only if she could see her mother's memorial tablet with her own eyes. She was allowed to go get it herself.
She returned to the hall holding the tablet and announced she was taking it with her and would not give them any money. Ling Father became furious and slapped her, attempting to snatch the tablet. Xu Zilu arrived just in time and blocked him. He declared that Ling Se was now part of the Xu family, and anyone who dared to harm her would be opposing the Xu family.
Ling Se then spoke, revealing that she had come hoping for a sign of fatherly affection, and if she had seen any, she would have given him the money she had prepared. Seeing his reaction, she said she was disappointed and considered the slap repayment, severing their father-daughter relationship from that moment on. She then tore up the silver notes she had brought.
Ling Father was enraged, calling her ungrateful, and lunged at her, but Xu Zilu protected her and they left the manor together. Xu Zilu and Ling Se took her mother's memorial tablet to the Guanyin Temple, where it could be enshrined in a quiet place.
Ling Se shared memories of her mother, describing her as kind, skilled in making pastries, gentle, and foolishly devoted, ultimately living her life for others and dying with regret that she couldn't stay to protect Ling Se. Xu Zilu vowed to her mother's tablet that Ling Se was doing well and promised to protect and care for her from now on.
Ling Se expressed regret over tearing the 500 tael silver notes, but Xu Zilu informed her that with the proper seal, the money could be replaced at the money exchange. Hearing this and realizing she could also get back the 100 tael note Ling Shuo had torn earlier, Ling Se was overjoyed, calculating she now had 600 taels, and playfully called Xu Zilu her "lucky star" and "money-grubber."
As Ling Se had joined the Linchun Chamber of Commerce, she was required to provide an item with collectible value for an upcoming charity auction. Struggling to think of something suitable that she could afford, she discussed it with Liu Yeniang. Liu Yeniang mentioned she needed a longevity cake and figure made for an upcoming 80th birthday banquet, noting the high cost of professional dough figure artists. This gave Ling Se an idea.
She decided to create a hand-sculpted dough figure of the God of Wealth for the auction, seeing it as meaningful and requiring only her own skill rather than expensive materials. At the charity auction, Ling Se encountered Wu Qi, an Imperial Merchant from Furong City, whom she had met previously. Xu Zilu was clearly jealous of Wu Qi's familiarity with Ling Se. During the auction, Wu Qi provided a valuable jade flute as his donation.
When Ling Se's hand-sculpted God of Wealth figure was presented, the bidding started low but quickly escalated into a rivalry between Xu Zilu and Wu Qi. The bids rapidly increased, reaching 1000 taels. Ling Se stopped Xu Zilu from bidding further, telling him the figurine was only worth a few coins and she could make him a better one later. Wu Qi won the bid for 1000 taels.
Afterwards, Wu Qi showed off his purchase to Xu Zilu, who retorted that he could get one made anytime by Ling Se. Wu Qi claimed he was also Ling Se's friend and believed she would make one for him if he asked. Later, Xu Zilu warned Ling Se that Wu Qi was not to be trusted and she should stay away from him.
Despite Ling Se's busy schedule running her shop, Xu Zilu repeatedly pestered her to make the promised dough figure, specifically asking for a "better" one. Wu Qi began visiting Ling Se's shop frequently to try her new creations. Xu Zilu noticed his visits and, clearly jealous, requested Ling Se make him the "Wish You Prosperity" milk tea she had made before, as well as the figurine.
Ling Se, overwhelmed with work, again promised to make them when she had free time. Meanwhile, it was revealed that Tao Ziran had attempted to bribe Eunuch Zhou from Prince Xian's Mansion to get an order, but the fragrant goods he submitted had a flaw that Prince Xian discovered. Unexpectedly, Xu Zilu intervened and resolved the situation with Prince Xian, preventing repercussions against Tao Ziran.
As a result of this and perhaps other factors, Xu Zilu was successfully appointed as an Imperial Merchant. News also reached the Xu family that Wu Qi, the head of the Wu family from Lingnan, was in Linchun. Xu Zilu's father decided he needed to return to Linchun and arranged to sell the previous batch of goods to Mr. Qi to balance the books before Xu Zilu could discover any irregularities.
Separately, Ling Se and Wu Qi agreed to go to the suburbs together to explore local ingredients for new recipes, as Wu Qi had suggested during one of his visits to her shop. They were out foraging when they encountered Xu Zilu, who was in the area inspecting timber for his family's business.
Episode 15 Recap
Xu Zilu felt uneasy when he saw Ling Se and Wu Qi together, out doing research. Wu Qi offered Ling Se a handkerchief to wipe her sweat, but Xu Zilu also extended his own, suggesting she use his instead. Ling Se felt it didn't matter whose she used and took Wu Qi's.
Xu Zilu then picked up the used handkerchief and said he would have Fuding wash it and return it to Wu Qi, noting that it had been used by his wife. Wu Qi responded that their shared intention was just to prevent Ms. Ling from catching a cold, to which Ling Se replied she was healthy and not delicate. Wu Qi pointed out a nearby house with corn silk, suggesting they go see it.
Just then, they encountered Ling Shuo, Ping'er, Wang, and Tao Meili, who were also hiking, having come because the academy was on holiday. Since they had met, they decided to spend the rest of the day together, camping overnight as someone had brought a tent. Ling Se suggested they go to a farmhouse she saw to get ingredients and cook, as Ping'er must be hungry, and introduced Wu Qi to the arriving group.
At the farmhouse, they asked the farmer about buying ingredients. The farmer initially demanded ten taels of silver, which everyone thought was too expensive. Ling Se asked for a lower price. The farmer then agreed to five taels, but they would have to do the cooking themselves. Both Xu Zilu and Wu Qi reached for their coin pouches, vying to pay.
Ling Se decided on the five taels offer and told Xu Zilu to pay, which made him feel somewhat pleased. As part of the self-cooking process, Ling Se and Xu Zilu went together to a pond to wash vegetables, with Xu Zilu remarking that doing it themselves made the outing more interesting. While preparing food, Xu Zilu attempted to help with the onions but found them pungent and irritating his eyes.
He told Wu Qi to rest, stating that since he had paid the five taels, he was the host, and Wu Qi was the guest. During their meal which included popcorn made by the farmer, Wu Qi praised Xu Zilu's ability, suggesting he could make popcorn. Others also expressed interest in trying Xu Zilu's popcorn. Xu Zilu claimed making popcorn was troublesome and required many ingredients which they didn't have, thus he couldn't make it today.
Earlier, Ping'er admired a flower ring Wang had made for Ling Se, noting how dexterous he was. Observing Ling Se's appreciation, Xu Zilu later made one himself and presented it to her. Ling Se also received praise for her efforts in cooking. When Xu Zilu claimed he lacked the materials to make popcorn, Wu Qi revealed he had prepared them, forcing Xu Zilu to attempt it.
Xu Zilu proceeded awkwardly, putting sugar first and adding various seasonings, calling it a "secret recipe," which drew confused questions about the process. Wu Qi then offered a way out by saying he needed the oil for grilling meat and suggested they skip the popcorn for the day. Xu Zilu seemed relieved, while someone else (Ping'er) expressed impatience for the grilled meat.
Someone (Ling Se) lightly chided Xu Zilu for acting tough and pretending to know how to make popcorn, saying he should thank Wu Qi for saving him from embarrassment. Xu Zilu decided he didn't want the grilled meat Wu Qi would make, claiming he didn't like meat. He went off to pick and grill some mushrooms he found, and also drank a good amount of wine.
Ling Se brought him some grilled rabbit, but he refused it, insisting his mushrooms were better. She questioned if his wild mushrooms were safe to eat, especially mixed with wine, warning of possible poisoning, but he ignored her. As he grew visibly dizzy and erratic, Ling Se took him away to help him sober up.
Stumbling and rambling, he drunkenly spoke about his wife, Ling Se, complaining that she constantly caused trouble and never gave him peace, yet admitting she was sometimes cute. He mentioned her opening a shop. In his stupor, he mused aloud, asking why he didn't just divorce her and give her the five hundred taels back if she was so annoying. Answering himself, he loudly declared it was because he couldn't bear to leave her.
Ling Se, listening, asked him why he couldn't bear it, but Xu Zilu had already fallen asleep. Xu Zilu woke up to find Ling Se asleep beside him. He gently covered her with his outer garment. He looked at her and leaned closer as if to kiss her but stopped himself. Ling Se shifted and rested her head on his leg. Xu Zilu remained sitting in that position, keeping vigil over her for the rest of the night.
In the morning, Ling Se woke and asked if he was alright and if he remembered what happened the previous night. Xu Zilu replied that he only remembered things up until eating the mushrooms and had no memory of anything after that. Ling Se remarked that it was fortunate he forgot, otherwise he might have felt compelled to hang himself. As they started back, Ling Se feigned a sprained ankle, and Xu Zilu helped her walk.
They were soon found by Ping'er and the others, who had been worried when they didn't return. Ling Se covered for Xu Zilu, telling the others they had gotten lost and he had sprained his ankle, causing them to be delayed all night. Later, back at the Xu Mansion, Ling Se expressed concern for Xu Zilu's health, asking if he needed to see a doctor for potential lingering effects from the mushrooms.
He insisted he was fine, stating he would be perfectly well as long as a certain person (referring to Wu Qi) wasn't constantly around him. Ling Se, puzzled by his strong dislike for Wu Qi, asked why he had such animosity towards someone who hadn't offended him. Before Xu Zilu could explain, Ling Se interrupted, assuming the reason was the dough figurine incident.
She scoffed at Wu Qi for spending a thousand taels on something worth only two copper coins, calling him a fool. Hearing this validation made Xu Zilu happy. He then immediately pressed Ling Se about the dough figurine she had promised to make him, saying he had been waiting for days. Ling Se replied that it takes time to make and can't be done quickly.
Xu Zilu playfully accused her of trying to cheat him, prompting her to promise she would make it that very day once they got home. Just then, Fuding arrived with news, asking Xu Zilu to prepare. Ling Se asked what was happening, but Xu Zilu simply dismissed it as nothing.
Meanwhile, Xu Third Uncle met with Mr. Qi to secretly sell a batch of the Xu family's new Harmony Incense, which was a limited edition product not scheduled to be released until the end of the following month. Third Uncle explained its exclusivity, and they negotiated the price. Third Uncle insisted on at least five hundred taels for the six hundred and twenty kilograms.
Mr. Qi mentioned the additional costs of repackaging, but Third Uncle stressed the high demand, stating he was offering the opportunity only out of sincerity. They agreed on the price of five hundred taels, arranging for a cash-and-goods exchange that very night in the East Bamboo Forest. Later, Fuding mentioned that Wu Qi was persistent and was looking for Xu Zilu to challenge him to an incense competition.
Xu Zilu initially dismissed the idea as a waste of time, calling Wu Qi idle. However, Fuding expressed concern that if Wu Qi couldn't reach Xu Zilu, he might approach Ling Se, mentioning that Wu Qi liked the food she cooked and often visited her tea shop. This prompted Xu Zilu to change his mind, and he ordered a carriage to go to Fulai Inn to see Wu Qi.
At the inn, the bosslady grumbled about Wu Qi occupying her best private room. Xu Zilu arrived and asked for Wu Qi. Meeting in the private room, Xu Zilu acknowledged Wu Qi's identity as the head of the Lingnan Wu Family. Wu Qi stated his clear purpose: to have an incense competition to determine whether the Xu family or the Wu family was superior in incense making in Daqing.
Xu Zilu reiterated his long-standing decision years ago not to participate in any incense competitions. Wu Qi tried to entice him with the offer of a lost ancient incense-making formula if he lost, and also tried to pressure him by mentioning the rules of Linchun incense competitions, where avoiding a challenge is considered admitting defeat. Xu Zilu remained unswayed, stating he didn't care about losing, and stood to leave.
Wu Qi found his reaction interesting and declared he must still have this competition with him. That night, in the East Bamboo Forest, Xu Third Uncle waited for Mr. Qi, but it was Xu Zilu who arrived with Fuding. Xu Zilu immediately saw the boxes of Harmony Incense, questioning why the limited edition incense, meant for release next month, was there.
Xu Third Uncle initially admitted he had done wrong this time, claiming it was a momentary lapse and would never happen again. However, Xu Zilu laid out his full knowledge of Third Uncle's actions: privately transferring goods, selling them at high prices for personal enrichment, and altering the ledger to conceal his activities, suggesting Third Uncle thought he knew nothing. Third Uncle became defensive, denying the extent of the accusations.
He claimed he had always been dedicated to the family business and that Xu Zilu was slandering him over one mistake. He argued that he occasionally had to transfer goods for business connections and might have forgotten a transfer list now and then, but insisted everything was accounted for without error. Xu Zilu then brought forward Chen Yun, a former employee who had worked for Third Uncle, to testify.
Chen Yun stated that Third Master had instructed him to evade the family members and secretly ship goods from the Xu shop. Some of these goods were for Third Master to maintain connections, others were sold at high prices to balance accounts, and a significant amount of money was kept by Third Master.
Chen Yun also added that Third Master had returned this time specifically because Xu Zilu was planning to audit the accounts, and Third Master intended to cover up the shortfalls. Third Uncle vehemently denied Chen Yun's testimony, calling him a liar and questioning why Xu Zilu would believe the word of a mere employee. In response, Xu Zilu produced letters, identifying them as correspondence between Third Uncle and Chen Yun, written in Third Uncle's own hand, proving their secret dealings.
Episode 16 Recap
Xu Zilu revealed to his uncle, Xu Yushan, that Chen Yun, Chen Bin, and Mr. Qi were all informants he had planted. Xu Yushan was shocked but dismissed the accusations, arguing that he had worked tirelessly for the Xu family business in Furong City, introduced numerous influential people, and that the family's current success was largely due to his efforts. He claimed he had only taken some goods and money, which he felt he deserved.
Xu Mother interrupted, expressing deep disappointment in her brother-in-law and asking everyone else to leave. Alone with his uncle, Xu Zilu reminded Xu Yushan of the principles he had taught him – integrity in business and not enriching oneself at the family's expense. He spoke of viewing Xu Yushan as a father figure after his own father's death and lamented how he had seemingly changed.
Xu Yushan retorted that he could anticipate anything Xu Zilu might say, acknowledged his perceived guilt towards the family, and declared that he, Xu Yushan, was no longer part of the Xu family and would have no further relationship with Xu Zilu.
After his uncle's departure, Xu Zilu looked at marks on the wall, recalling how his uncle had marked his height there each year after his father died, how he would secretly bring him food when his mother punished him, comfort him when he was upset, and teach him business principles. He felt a deep sense of loss.
Ling Se found him reflecting and comforted him, acknowledging that people can change but emphasizing that many others still cared for him, urging him to pull himself together for their sake. News reached Xu Zilu that Wu Qi was traveling across the country challenging incense makers, winning many shops and claiming that Linchun City's reputation as a center for incense making was undeserved.
A servant suggested that Wu Qi might be trying to provoke Xu Zilu into a competition and could potentially target Ling Se. Xu Zilu expressed annoyance at having to deal with him. Ling Se arrived, drawn by the pleasant scent from Xu Zilu's room.
He showed her an incense called 'Tranquillity Incense,' the first ever made by their ancestors, explaining the principles of distinguishing scents – requiring a calm heart, smelling slowly, and understanding the "emperor, minister, coordinator" composition with at least three ingredients. He gave her another incense to identify. After concentrating, she correctly identified agarwood, chrysanthemum, and camellia, surprising him with her sensitive nose. She identified this incense as 'Autumn,' leading her to suggest creating incense for all four seasons.
Xu Zilu mentioned that the early plum blossoms in the Xu mansion's estate were blooming beautifully and invited her to visit the next day. Ling Se initially declined, saying the Aromatic Tea Shop was too busy for her to leave. Seeing his slight disappointment, she quickly reconsidered, saying a worker could cover the shop, and she could take half a day or a day off.
Xu Zilu was pleased and immediately instructed Fu Ding to arrange for food, drinks, and prepare rooms at the estate, mentioning they might stay late. Fu Ding noted there was only one room available and stated he would not accompany them as he had other tasks. Meanwhile, Wang visited Ping'er, visibly nervous about his exam the following morning.
Ping'er offered him careful advice on preparing his supplies and managing his mindset, urging him to rest and eat well before the test. She gave him a charm she had specially obtained for him, asking him to keep it with him during the exam for good luck. Wang promised to do so. Later, back home, Wang was still trembling with anxiety and struggling to recall what he had memorized.
A servant suggested he make a "xiaocao" (cheat sheet) by writing notes in tiny script on a folded piece of paper to keep on his waist and refer to if he forgot something. The servant encouraged him to be prepared for both possibilities. Wang agreed and began preparing the cheat sheet while studying. The next day, as Wang was about to enter the exam hall, another student accused him of having a cheat sheet.
Wang denied it and was searched, but nothing was found. However, seeing how much Wang was trembling, the invigilator deemed him suspicious and instructed him to take the exam in isolation. Outside the exam hall, Ping'er waited anxiously. Ling Se and Liu Yeniang were there and tried to comfort Ping'er, telling her that she had done her best to help Wang prepare, and now they must leave the rest to fate.
Liu Yeniang also expressed her frustration, complaining that Wu Qi's incense challenges were ruining businesses in Linchun; she mentioned one shop owner who lost his business and fled town due to debt. As they had planned, Xu Zilu was preparing to go with Ling Se to see the plum blossoms when Fu Ding arrived with urgent news. The Laurel Garden in the south had suffered a mudslide, destroying most of the laurel plants, injuring many farmers, and leaving some missing.
Xu Zilu immediately decided he had to go south to oversee the disaster relief efforts. He found Ling Se to tell her he could not accompany her as planned. Ling Se understood the importance of the matter and told him to prioritize his business, assuring him that they could visit the plum blossoms later since they would bloom for the entire winter.
Xu Zilu gave her a branch of plum blossom and asked her to wait for his return so they could go to the plum blossom forest together. She happily agreed. Xu Zilu and Fu Ding were traveling quickly by carriage when they found a badly injured man on the road who claimed he had been attacked by bandits. They helped him into their carriage. Soon after, they realized they were being pursued.
The injured man, named Zheng, gave Xu Zilu a parcel, urging him to take it to Furong City if he did not survive, stating its contents were very important. Fu Ding suggested distracting the pursuers, but Xu Zilu worried it was too dangerous for him alone. Despite this, Fuding rode off to lead the attackers away. The carriage carrying Xu Zilu and Zheng overturned. The pursuers found the overturned carriage.
They located Zheng, checked his pulse, and found he was dead. They searched his body and the carriage for the parcel but found nothing. They then checked Xu Zilu, who was unconscious, concluding he was also dead as they found no pulse, and left without finding the parcel. On the day appointed for the incense competition, Xu Zilu had not returned.
At the Linchun Guild Hall, Wu Qi declared that since Xu Zilu was absent, he would claim one of the Xu family's shops by forfeiture, citing the local rules that abandoning the match meant losing. A Xu family servant protested that their young master had not withdrawn. Wu Qi insisted the competition must happen.
Ling Se stepped forward and announced that since Xu Zilu had entrusted her with looking after the Xu family in his absence, she would represent the family in the competition. She asked Wu Qi if she was qualified to compete against him. Wu Qi seemed skeptical of a newcomer but agreed to the terms. They set the competition to three rounds: creating incense, smelling incense, and coiling incense. The winner would be determined by the best of three rounds.
If Wu Qi won, he would take the Xu family's incense shop on Peony Street. If the Xu family won, Wu Qi would return all the shops he had previously won in Linchun. Ling Se then added a personal wager: if she lost, she would give Wu Qi a prime shop belonging to her family in Furong City; if she won, Wu Qi would give her a prime shop in Furong City. Wu Qi accepted the increased stakes.
The first round, Creating Incense, began. Wu Qi created an incense blend he described with imagery that was interpreted by onlookers as ominous for Xu Zilu's fortune. Ling Se created a blend she called "Flying among the white clouds in the sky." Wu Qi won the first round. The second round, Smelling Incense, commenced. Ling Se concentrated deeply, recalling Xu Zilu's earlier lesson on scent identification.
When it was her turn, she precisely identified the ingredients in Wu Qi's incense, including a subtle plum blossom scent that others had missed, surprising everyone. Ling Se won the second round. As the third round, Coiling Incense, was about to start (a technique Ling Se was unfamiliar with), Wu Qi unexpectedly announced his concession. He stated that his goal was to compete with the strongest opponent and, having lost the second round, he would concede.
He then publicly declared that he would return all the shops he had won to their original owners, much to the joy of the assembled merchants. Before leaving, Wu Qi urgently told Ling Se that she should go home quickly because Xu Zilu had had an accident.
Episode 17 Recap
Xu Zilu's mother and Ling Se went to the Prefecture Office to inquire about Xu Zilu. The Governor informed them that Xu Zilu might have met with an accident on the walkway. Only his personal belongings were found, but he was nowhere to be seen. Given that it was the middle of winter and so much time had passed without news, it was likely that he had perished.
Upon hearing this, Xu Zilu's mother was overcome with grief and anger and fainted. Back at the mansion, Ling Se diligently cared for Xu Zilu's mother and offered comfort. She assured her mother-in-law that she would always be by her side and with the Xu family, no matter what. Ling Se firmly believed that Xu Zilu would return safely. Seeing the servants distraught, she instructed them to pull themselves together, reminding them that the Xu family had not fallen.
With Xu Zilu missing and his mother ill, the responsibility of holding the family together fell entirely on Ling Se. She encouraged her mother-in-law to recover, emphasizing that the Xu family needed her. A servant reported that after Third Master Xu Yushan returned to the city, he had transferred all the shops in Furong City that were under Xu Zilu's name to his own, causing chaos among the staff there.
Hearing this, Xu Zilu's mother declared her intention to go to Furong City herself to reclaim the properties. Ling Se, concerned about her mother-in-law's poor health and the arduous journey, tried to stop her. Ling Se persuaded her mother-in-law to let her go to Furong City to retrieve the shops, asking her to trust her. Xu Zilu's mother reluctantly agreed, stating that Ling Se was the only one she could rely on now.
Ping'er learned that Ling Se was going to Furong City for the Xu family and offered to accompany her for mutual support. However, Ling Se told Ping'er that due to her special status, it was better for her to stay at the mansion and take good care of Mother. Ling Se thought about Xu Zilu's promise to return and watch the plum blossoms with her. Now the blossoms were in bloom, but he was still gone.
Standing alone in the plum forest, holding a branch of plum blossoms, she missed him but also chided him for not keeping his word, calling him a cunning businessman. Suddenly, Xu Zilu appeared, telling her he was back. Ling Se was overcome with joy at seeing him safe and cried as they shared a heartfelt embrace. She told him how worried she had been, how the family was in turmoil, and that Mother had fallen ill.
Xu Zilu apologized for causing her so much worry. They were simply relieved to be reunited. Xu Zilu met with his mother and explained that he had accidentally fallen into a river when his horse got startled, which caused the delay in his return. He apologized for making her worry, but she was just grateful he was safe. Xu Zilu then told her that he would need to go to Furong City soon.
Ling Se immediately expressed her desire to go with him. His mother was happy to see them together again, feeling the family was reunited. Wu Qi arrived to visit, announcing that he too would be leaving Linchun City for Furong City. He returned the shops he had won from Ling Se earlier, as well as the dough figurine he had bought. Ling Se acknowledged his integrity but insisted he didn't need to return the figurine he had paid for.
Wu Qi explained that he considered the figurine to be something Xu Zilu cherished and he could not bear to take what someone else loved, so he returned it. Xu Zilu then asked why Wu Qi had deliberately conceded during the incense competition.
Wu Qi replied that his sole desire was to compete seriously in incense making, that he greatly admired the Xu family's tradition, and that being able to smell the incense personally prepared by Xu Zilu was a fulfillment of his wish. He also warned Xu Zilu that Furong City was a dangerous place, a "dragon's pool and tiger's den," and advised him to be extremely careful if he entered the city.
Xu Zilu thanked him for the warning, and the three agreed to meet again in Furong City. After Wu Qi left, Ling Se commented on the returned shop in Furong City, seeing it as an opportunity for profit. Xu Zilu agreed, mentioning they could assess its location and potential for business or rent it out. Ling Se told him not to worry about her if he was busy, but Xu Zilu insisted he would still accompany her.
Separately, Ping'er told Wang Zhujue she was going to Furong City with Ling Se. Wang Zhujue wanted to go with her, but Ping'er urged him to focus on waiting for his Provincial Examination results, which she felt were more important. Feeling disappointed, Wang Zhujue later confessed to a friend that he felt like a joke and was not good enough for Ping'er, deciding not to see her off when she left.
Xu Zilu instructed Fuding that he would not be going with him to Furong City this time. Instead, he assigned Fuding the crucial task of staying in Linchun City to take good care of his mother and report any important matters. Fuding was initially hesitant, having been told by the young master to always be with him, but Xu Zilu stressed that he trusted Fuding the most with his mother's care.
Xu Zilu's mother gave Ling Se farewell instructions, urging her to be careful in Furong City and telling her to ask Xu Zilu for anything she wanted to eat or drink, adding that he had plenty of money. She also gave Ling Se some pocket money and expressed her hope that they would return with a baby, as she was eager for a grandchild. Ling Se promised to ask Zilu for whatever she needed and thanked her mother-in-law.
Ping'er ultimately decided not to wait for Wang Zhujue and left with Ling Se. Meanwhile, Wang Zhujue checked the results of the Provincial Examination with some friends and was surprised and overjoyed to find that he had passed. Realizing that passing the exam meant he could travel to Furong City for the higher exams and thus find Ping'er, he excitedly set off immediately. After Xu Zilu left, two thieves broke into the Xu Mansion.
Although no one was caught, the thieves showed surprising agility, easily climbing over a high wall. Xu Zilu's mother was terrified and suspected they were not ordinary thieves, fearing they might have been sent by Third Master Xu Yushan. Worried about Xu Zilu's safety, she immediately instructed Fuding to take a good horse and ride quickly to catch up with Xu Zilu and inform him of the break-in, urging him to be extremely cautious.
Fuding initially reminded her that Xu Zilu had told him to stay and protect her, but Mother insisted he obey her instructions, asking him who the young master listened to. On the road, Fuding was ambushed by two men who demanded to know Xu Zilu's whereabouts. Fuding refused to reveal anything, despite their threats to kill him.
Just as they were about to attack him, Ling Shuo, who was also traveling to Furong City for his exam, happened upon the scene and intervened, saving Fuding. After untying Fuding, Ling Shuo explained his own situation: his father had lost their fortune and wanted him to give up studying to farm, but he had run away from home to pursue the exam despite being penniless.
Since Ling Shuo had saved his life, Fuding offered to take him to Furong City, and Ling Shuo happily accepted, calling Fuding his elder brother. They quickly departed together before the attackers regained consciousness. Separately, Wang Zhujue continued his journey towards Furong City, lamenting about being left behind by a friend. He arrived at a suburban posthouse where he encountered Wang Zixuan.
Due to the large number of students traveling for the exams, the innkeeper informed them there was only one room left and suggested they share it, which Wang Zhujue initially refused. Wang Zixuan then misled Wang Zhujue, telling him that Ping'er was waiting for him at the street corner across from the posthouse and suggested he go there immediately as it might be hard for her to find lodging.
Eager to see Ping'er, Wang Zhujue believed him and set out at night. He arrived at the location Wang Zixuan described, with a donkey and candied haws he intended for Ping'er, but she was not there. He waited patiently, hoping she would eventually show up.
Episode 18 Recap
Upon arriving at the suburban posthouse, Ping'er was visibly excited to see Wang Zhujue waiting for them. He proudly announced that he had passed the Provincial Examination and was now in Furong City for the Metropolitan Examination. Wang Zhujue mentioned that he had trouble finding accommodation after being tricked by Wang Zixuan, but Xu Zilu was able to secure them a room thanks to his family's connections with the posthouse.
At the posthouse, they encountered Lyu Qingfeng, a Constable from the Ministry of Personnel. Lyu Qingfeng, who claimed to be an old acquaintance from Linchun, addressed Xu Zilu coolly. When Ling Se introduced herself as Xu Zilu's wife, Lyu Qingfeng offered one of the two rooms he had booked and help with obtaining their entry permits. Xu Zilu, however, responded curtly, refusing his offer.
Sensing tension, Ling Se inquired if they had a past conflict, but Xu Zilu quickly dismissed Lyu Qingfeng, telling him to stay silent, and led Ling Se away. Unbeknownst to them, men in black were observing their arrival, noting the presence of officials, and plotting to sneak into their room. Later, Fuding and Ling Shuo arrived.
Ling Shuo, Ling Se's younger brother, explained tearfully that he had won first place in the Provincial Examination but had run away from home after their father decided he couldn't afford to support his studies further and wanted him to return to the countryside. He had planned to travel with Wang Zhujue but was forgotten and had to make his way alone until he met Fuding. Ling Se was furious at Wang Zhujue and promised to punish him later.
Fuding then added that he had met Ling Shuo while traveling. Ling Shuo recognized Lyu Qingfeng, who had left earlier, and impulsively revealed that Lyu Qingfeng was the person who had stolen Xu Zilu's fiancée, making Xu Zilu the laughingstock of Linchun City and causing him to remain unmarried for years. Ling Se was taken aback by the revelation. Lyu Qingfeng departed, offering his sincere blessings before leaving.
Fuding cautioned Ling Se to stay away from Lyu Qingfeng, saying their young master couldn't endure another heartbreak. Fuding eventually managed to get Ling Shuo, who initially wanted to stay and protect Ling Se, back to their room. Afterward, Ling Se discussed the revelation with Ping'er, expressing her confusion and curiosity about Xu Zilu's former fiancée. Ping'er speculated that the fiancée must have been blind to choose Lyu Qingfeng over Xu Zilu, confirming she was likely a well-matched noble lady.
Ping'er playfully suggested a scenario where Xu Zilu and his ex-fiancée might rekindle their relationship upon meeting, leaving Ling Se, the contract wife, behind. Feeling teased, Ling Se decided she would just ask Xu Zilu directly. That evening, Ling Se asked Xu Zilu to join her to admire the moon. He noticed her contemplative gaze and asked if she was still preoccupied with what had happened earlier.
She admitted she was just curious and would drop the subject if he preferred not to talk about it. When she asked if his fiancée was pretty, Xu Zilu described her as a childhood friend from the same academy, popular among many, and a renowned beauty and talent in Linchun, adding with a hint of bitterness that "apart from poor taste, everything else about her is impeccable."
Ling Se felt a pang of sadness and asked if he regretted not marrying her. Xu Zilu responded that he hadn't understood feelings before but did now. Ling Se, feeling a blush, said she was going back to sleep. Later, men in black attacked Xu Zilu. Lyu Qingfeng and his subordinates apprehended two of the attackers, but they promptly took poison and died in custody.
Fuding later reported to Xu Zilu that the attack had happened the night after they left home and the men had searched his room. Fuding mentioned the Old Madam suspected Third Uncle was behind it. Xu Zilu connected this incident to the problem with the shop in Furong City. Recognizing the danger, Xu Zilu planned to send for more guards from home. Ling Se, hearing about thieves at the posthouse, came to check on Xu Zilu.
He reassured her he was unharmed and the attackers were caught. Ling Se expressed her fear, and Xu Zilu comforted her, promising to take her shopping in the city the next day to help her relax. They shared a tender moment before Ling Se left, feeling shy. Meanwhile, Xu Zilu's Third Uncle in Furong was resentful that Xu Zilu had arrived so quickly.
He was struggling to transfer funds from the perfume shop, realizing he couldn't leave Xu Zilu with an empty storefront. Third Uncle had been trying to forge connections with Wu Qi, sending visiting cards which were returned, and even visiting in person with gifts. However, Wu Qi's butler blocked him, stating that Wu Qi refused to meet him because "those with different values can't work together."
Angered, Third Uncle left, warning that Wu Qi should not blame him in the future. Wu Qi, speaking to his butler, acknowledged Third Uncle's persistence and his own need to be cautious around him. Upon their arrival in Furong City, Ling Se was excited by the bustling atmosphere and wanted to explore. Fuding showed her the lively Xilin Street, pointing out shops selling jewelry and mentioning a famous one.
Ping'er felt unwell, citing a headache and lack of breakfast, and asked Wang Zhujue to buy her candied haws. As Xu Zilu and Ling Se walked, they passed a shop called "Yushan Perfume Shop." Ling Se noticed its style was similar to the Xu family's shops but the name was different. Xu Zilu confirmed it "was" their family's shop, kept by his Third Uncle, and promised he would personally take it back later.
They received the report about the captured attackers poisoning themselves before heading to the Xu Mansion in Furong. At the mansion, Butler Chen greeted them warmly and offered them Three Flower Tea, a local specialty. Ling Se recognized him as Chen Bin. Xu Zilu explained that after the incident involving Third Uncle, he had kept Chen in Furong as his butler. Fuding, hearing this, was visibly upset and complained about not being made butler himself despite his years of service.
Xu Zilu teased Fuding about his job performance. Butler Chen then showed them around the mansion. Later, Wu Qi met with Ling Se, greeting her with warm regard and stating her arrival had dispelled his worries. He showed her a large shop he intended to give her, explaining its prime location and high value.
Wu Qi stated he had planned to open a branch there but decided to give it to her due to the sense of affinity he felt with "both" her and Xu Zilu during their time in Linchun. Ling Se was surprised and delighted by his generosity, accepting the gift while wondering how to make the most of such a large, well-situated space.
Wu Qi suggested she consider a larger business scope and offered to cooperate and invest more if she had concerns. Xu Zilu then arrived, thanking Wu Qi for his kindness. Wu Qi framed it as a simple business discussion and invited them to share some Three Flower Tea, hoping it might inspire Xu Zilu's incense-making. While Ling Se continued to look around the shop, Xu Zilu joined Wu Qi for tea.
Wu Qi asked Xu Zilu if his purpose in Furong was solely to accompany his wife and establish her business, or if he had other objectives. Xu Zilu prompted him to be direct. Wu Qi then inquired about Third Uncle's status within the Xu family, mentioning the returned visiting cards. Xu Zilu confirmed that Wu Qi was well-informed.
Wu Qi offered advice on navigating the complexities of Furong, highlighting the strict rules and the influence of powerful figures like Prince Xian, who favors Imperial Merchants and cultivates connections. Wu Qi noted Xu Zilu's prior dealings with Prince Xian. Xu Zilu acknowledged the advice but pressed Wu Qi on his reasons for repeatedly approaching him from Lingnan to Furong.
Wu Qi revealed that their destinies were intertwined by a "certain person," but he assured Xu Zilu that this person would not be Ling Se. Back at the mansion, Xu Zilu asked Fuding if the visiting card had been delivered to Prince Xian's residence. Fuding confirmed it had been personally delivered. Xu Zilu then inquired about lively places in Furong suitable for taking Ling Se.
Fuding mentioned the Qianqiu Festival Garden Party the following day, explaining the local tradition where lovers exchange sachets to pledge lifelong devotion and receive blessings. Xu Zilu seemed intrigued by the prospect of attending the Garden Party but declined Fuding's offer to buy him a sachet. Later that night, Xu Zilu was still awake, working on making incense. Ling Se came to check on him, noting his late hours.
Xu Zilu, who was dressed up and had new clothes ready for her, mentioned the Qianqiu Garden Party with its food and fun, suggesting they go together. Ling Se was excited and happily changed into the dress he had prepared. He complimented her appearance, making her beam. As they were preparing to leave, Fuding arrived with an urgent message: Prince Xian had summoned Xu Zilu immediately.
Xu Zilu was hesitant, saying he was busy and asking Fuding to reply that he would visit another day. Fuding insisted that it was Prince Xian. Ling Se urged him to go, saying she could go to the Garden Party alone or with Ling Shuo. Xu Zilu decided to go quickly, finish the meeting, and return to accompany her, emphasizing that she must wait for him. He then departed to meet with Prince Xian.
Episode 19 Recap
Xu Zilu went to visit Prince Xian. Prince Xian, who resides in Furong City and is fond of incense, praised Xu Zilu as young and capable, fitting to be the Imperial Merchant. He informed Xu Zilu that from then on, all incense used in his residence would be supplied by the Xu family. This decision was made because a eunuch in his residence had previously mishandled the matter of the Jiuchongtian incense, causing the Xu family to be wronged.
Prince Xian cautioned Xu Zilu that Furong City gathers the country's best merchants and shops, and while the Xu family's goods are good, they would need to work diligently to maintain the title of Imperial Merchant. Xu Zilu assured him the Xu family would give their utmost effort. Ling Se and Ling Shuo attended the Qianqiu Festival. They discovered an arena competition where the grand prize was a unique Hetian jade pendant engraved with the character "æ—º" (prosperity).
Ling Se immediately liked the pendant, thinking it would be perfect for her brother-in-law, and paid the five-coin entry fee for herself and Ling Shuo. The first round of the competition was craftsmanship, judged on the vivid essence of the work. Ling Se created a cat that stretched, but the judge dismissed it as childish and lacking essence.
Ling Se clarified it was also an incense burner that emitted smoke, and Ling Shuo explained it represented the atmosphere of lingering fragrance, but the judge was unmoved. Just then, a woman intervened, quoting poetry to argue that the incense burner held profound meaning and should advance. The judge agreed, and Ling Se was promoted to the finals.
The woman, who said her hometown was famous for making incense, expressed her liking for the incense burner and asked if she could have it. As they talked, they discovered they were both from Linchun, and Ling Shuo and the woman even studied under the same teacher at Wansong Academy. Feeling a strong sense of fate, Ling Se gave the woman the incense burner.
The woman told Ling Se not to expect her to go easy in the finals, and Ling Se agreed that winning or losing should be based on true skill. After the finals, Ling Se was frustrated about not winning the jade pendant for her brother-in-law and feeling she had wasted the entry money. Meanwhile, Ping'er felt trapped staying at the Xu Mansion, unable to go out or join the lively festival.
Wang Zhujue arrived and presented her with a fox mask he had specifically gone out to find. He lamented that he couldn't take her out to enjoy the festivities because she was ill. Ping'er insisted she felt much better and wanted to go out. After some hesitation, Wang agreed. Ping'er put on the mask, expressing her desire to be an unrecognizable little fox for the day. As they strolled, Wang bought her things she liked.
Ping'er insisted on buying him a mask in return, choosing a Sun Wukong mask. She explained that Wang was like Sun Wukong to her, always appearing instantly when she needed him most, especially with delicious food. Wang tried on the mask, and Ping'er thought it suited him well.
Later, Wang Zhujue asked Ping'er if she was hiding from a former master, if she wasn't truly sick but afraid of being recognized, and if that's why she needed the mask to go out. Ping'er confirmed his observation. Wang reassured her not to be afraid, offering to go with her to her former master to state she had a new master and did not wish to return, so she wouldn't have to hide anymore.
He also offered to help redeem any bondservant contract she might have, so she could be free to do whatever she wished, promising his support. Ping'er then asked him if he would search for her if she were to leave one day. Wang asked if she disliked staying at the Xu family, but Ping'er clarified she meant "if" she had to return to where she was before. Wang promised he would absolutely come looking for her.
Ping'er questioned how he would find her in the vast Furong City. Wang confidently replied that he could, because he was her Sun Wukong. Ping'er affectionately called him like a monkey. Wang affirmed that whether a monkey or Sun Wukong, he would find her and be with her no matter the distance if she called him, promising to bring her delicious food and saying she would always recognize him. They tearfully promised to always be together.
Shortly after, Ping'er mentioned her throat felt uncomfortable from eating too many salty and spicy things. Wang went to buy her some pear soup or syrup. While he was gone, Prince Xian appeared and called out to Ping'er. Ling Se and Ling Shuo were eating at the Golden Panda restaurant when they unexpectedly ran into the woman from the competition again. The woman invited them to join her table and offered them some local tea.
They chatted, and both Ling Se and the woman mentioned they were waiting for their husbands. The woman asked Ling Se why she liked the jade pendant so much. Ling Se explained she wanted it for her husband, a businessman, because she felt the "æ—º" character was very suitable for him, and the design was unique.
The woman then revealed that she, too, had wanted the pendant for her husband, who worked in the government and was diligently seeking promotion, noting the coincidence of their shared thought despite their different reasons. The woman offered the pendant to Ling Se, but Ling Se politely refused, stating that she had lost fair and square and wouldn't take something the woman wanted for her own husband.
Ling Se invited her to visit her tea shop in Linchun if she ever returned. The woman mentioned she might not be able to return to Linchun due to a past event. Ling Se respected her privacy. As Ling Se and Ling Shuo were preparing to leave, Xu Zilu arrived, looking for Ling Se. He was surprised to see the woman and greeted her, calling her Wanrong.
Wanrong greeted him back, acknowledging it had been a long time and commenting on how much he had changed. She apologized for being impulsive in the past, causing him embarrassment. Xu Zilu dismissed it as something in the past. Ling Se overheard their conversation and, recognizing the woman as "Mrs. Lyu" (implying she was married to a "Lord Lyu"), commented to Xu Zilu that he had mentioned her before.
She praised Mrs. Lyu's talents and appearance, telling Xu Zilu he was fortunate to have such a clever wife. Mrs. Lyu noted that her husband, Lord Lyu, had helped Xu Zilu at a posthouse a few days prior and expressed happiness for Xu Zilu having such a good wife (referring to Ling Se). Seeing them engrossed in conversation, Ling Se felt she was intruding and said she would leave, as they had much to talk about as old acquaintances.
As she walked away, Ling Shuo told Xu Zilu he should go after her, mentioning how much she had done for him all day. Xu Zilu followed Ling Se. Ling Se, upset, questioned why he was following her instead of staying with his former fiancée. Xu Zilu clarified that Wanrong was married. Ling Se retorted that their relationship was merely a contractual one that could be terminated if he paid enough, and he was free to pursue his true love.
When Xu Zilu asked if she was jealous, she denied it and playfully hit him. Despite her denials, he insisted she was jealous and stopped her from leaving. He led her to a quiet street, explaining it was a place his mother used to bring him when he was young. She would leave him there while she conducted business, and he would spend the whole day watching the shops and people, never feeling bored.
He shared that he had made a promise to himself long ago that he would only return to this street with someone he believed he could spend his life with. He admitted he thought he would never find such a person until she appeared. He confessed that he didn't know exactly when he fell for her, citing moments like when she hugged him in the plum forest or her actions at the Imperial Merchants Conference.
He told her he never expected someone like her, carefree and quirky, to enter his life, making him laugh and cry, but that he had grown used to her presence and found her silly side endearing. He expressed his desire to know her better, help her, and take care of her, even mentioning how he, who used to resist physical contact, had secretly kissed her that night.
He confessed that by the time he realized his feelings, it was too late. Acknowledging her past hardships and fear of expressing emotions, he declared he would take the step for her and asked if she was willing to be his true wife. Ling Se was visibly moved. They smiled at each other, embracing happily.
Xu Zilu and Ling Se returned to the Xu Mansion hand in hand, where Ling Shuo started to question Ling Se about her earlier comment about a contractual marriage. Their conversation was interrupted by a frantic Wang Zhujue, who reported that Ping'er was missing. He explained he had stepped away briefly to buy pear soup and when he returned, she was gone. He had searched everywhere in the crowded streets but couldn't find her.
Butler Chen confirmed she hadn't returned to the mansion. They decided to split up and search. Ling Shuo went with Fuding, while Wang Zhujue searched Chaoyang Street and Xilin Street and even waited until dawn at the spot where she disappeared, but they found no trace of her. Just as they were contemplating reporting her missing to the officials, someone announced, "The Princess is here." To their surprise, it was Ping'er.
A guard instructed everyone to kneel before the Princess, but Ping'er told them to rise. She apologized to Ling Se and the others for not telling them and causing them worry, admitting she had been scared. Her aunt was also present and chastised Ping'er for her outrageous behavior, saying a princess running away from marriage would disgrace the royal family and put her grandfather in a difficult position.
She reminded Ping'er of her parents, stating her father died for the country and her mother died of grief. Ping'er apologized, acknowledging her thoughtlessness, but reiterated that she did not want to marry someone she disliked. When asked what kind of person she wanted, she described someone who truly invests in feelings, is honest and sincere, can share tears and laughter with her, and doesn't care whether she is from a noble family or a humble maid.
Her aunt then asked if she had someone in mind, and Ping'er hesitated. Wang Zhujue was present throughout this, visibly upset when the guard scolded him for touching the Princess's hand. Ping'er reassured Wang that she was fine. Back at the Xu Mansion, Ling Se asked Ping'er how she was a Princess. Ping'er revealed her true identity as Wei Qingping, granddaughter of Marquis Wei of the Bureau of Astrology.
She explained that she had met a former acquaintance while shopping with Wang the previous day, and that person had taken her back to the Marquis Mansion. She apologized again for worrying them, explaining her grandfather had talked to her for a long time, delaying her return. Before she could explain why she had run away, a servant announced that Prince Xian had arrived to pick up Princess Ping'er.
Episode 20 Recap
Prince Xian arrived at the Xu Mansion with Ping'er, where they were greeted by Xu Zilu and Ling Se. Prince Xian introduced Ping'er to everyone, stating that she was his friend. He then expressed gratitude to the Xu family and their companions for taking care of Her Grace when she was missing, mentioning his daily worry until she was safely returned to him.
He then revealed that he and Her Grace had been engaged for a long time, catching Wang Zhujue by surprise. When Wang Zhujue called Ping'er by her given name, Prince Xian chided him for being ill-mannered. Ping'er intervened, stating that she had asked her friends to call her that.
Prince Xian declined the offer to sit and have tea, stating he was only there to take Ping'er back to the Marquis Mansion as he had important matters to discuss with Marquis Wei later. He left with Ping'er. Upon returning to the Marquis Mansion, Prince Xian met with Marquis Wei.
He explained that he had just finished discussing the sacrificial ceremony with the Grand Commandant and also picked up Ping'er on the way, thinking her presence was necessary to discuss the marriage. Prince Xian announced that he had consulted a fortune-teller who determined that an auspicious day for the wedding would fall after the sacrificial ceremony. Marquis Wei suggested that marriage was a serious matter and he needed to consult Ping'er's mother and uncle before setting the date.
Prince Xian agreed that consultation was necessary but emphasized his deep affection for Ping'er, stating his love was sincere and clear. He declared that he would forgive and forget Ping'er's previous escape, but if anything went wrong again, he would not be lenient. Marquis Wei assured him there would be no repeat of the incident, attributing it to Ping'er's youthful immaturity. Prince Xian dismissed it, saying he understood she was young and playful and wouldn't blame her.
Later, Wang Zhujue went to the Marquis Wei's Mansion to see Ping'er but was stopped at the gate. The gatekeepers claimed that Marquis Wei stated Her Grace did not know any young masters from outside and that Wang Zhujue must be mistaken about their acquaintance. They warned him not to bother them again, or they would report him. Distraught, Wang Zhujue returned to the Xu Mansion, dejected.
Xu Zilu and Ling Se found him despairing over not being able to see Ping'er. They tried to console him, urging him to at least eat. Ling Se mentioned she was planning to visit Ping'er in the next few days and could relay a message for him. Hearing this, Wang Zhujue immediately became hopeful and eagerly agreed to have Ling Se act as a go-between.
When Ling Se visited Ping'er at the Marquis Mansion, Ping'er noted how good Ling Se was at the game they were playing. Ling Se delivered Wang Zhujue's message. Ping'er expressed her thanks and said she had also prepared a note for him, waiting for Ling Se to help deliver it. Ling Se noted Wang Zhujue's low spirits recently and believed the note would cheer him up.
However, she commented that passing notes wasn't a sustainable solution and they needed to meet. Ping'er explained that it wasn't her grandfather preventing her from seeing Wang Zhujue, but Prince Xian, who had placed many informants at the Marquis Mansion gate. She felt it would be difficult to meet Wang Zhujue, though meeting Ling Se was less risky. Ling Se reassured her that she would help them pass notes and find a way for them to meet.
Meanwhile, Xu Zilu went to the incense shop that his Third Uncle had taken over. He found the shop had been renamed and the staff did not recognize him until the manager, Luo, was alerted. The manager explained that Third Master had been present when he was ordered to take over the shop and they dared not defy him. To prove his loyalty to the Xu family, the manager handed over the shop's title deed, ledger, inventory, and details.
Xu Zilu retook control of the shop. While examining the inventory, Xu Zilu noticed a particular type of incense that smelled both familiar and strange, and became slightly astringent when smelled for a long time. He realized Xu's family formula could not produce this fragrance, which seemed to contain an ingredient unique to Beiyun. Suspecting something was amiss, he instructed his subordinate to investigate Third Uncle's recent movements and contacts.
At the same time, a report reached Third Uncle about a message from Prince Xian urging him to send the goods quickly. This suggested a connection between the unusual incense, Third Uncle, and Prince Xian. On the day Ping'er was expected to visit Xu Mansion alone as planned, Prince Xian surprisingly accompanied her. At the family dinner, Prince Xian observed Wang Zhujue sitting next to Ping'er.
He suggested that Ling Se change seats to be closer to Ping'er, her close friend, but Ling Se playfully refused, stating she wouldn't have an appetite if she didn't sit next to her husband, Xu Zilu. Prince Xian then inquired about Wang Zhujue's result in the Provincial Examination. Wang Zhujue admitted he barely passed, placing last, but expressed confidence that his rank would improve significantly in the Metropolitan Examination.
Prince Xian remarked on his confidence despite being last but conceded that diligence could improve one's standing. Ping'er spoke up in support of Wang Zhujue's ambition. Prince Xian then offered to arrange a good marriage for Wang Zhujue when he became the Number One Scholar, suggesting Assistant Minister Liu's daughter as a suitable match.
Wang Zhujue politely declined, stating he knew his limitations regarding the examination and couldn't aspire to marry such a prominent daughter, adding that he already had someone in his heart. As the dinner continued, Prince Xian served Ping'er a shrimp. Wang Zhujue, seemingly feigning poor eyesight from studying, quickly took the shrimp, claiming he thought it was for him. Prince Xian was visibly displeased by this provocation.
While cautioning Wang Zhujue, Prince Xian firmly asserted Ping'er's identity as Marquis Wei's granddaughter and his future Princess Xian, warning everyone to remember her status and observe proper etiquette now that they were in Furong City. He stated that while he was magnanimous enough to overlook past informalities in Linchun, further breaches of etiquette could lead to embarrassment if word got out.
After dinner, Xu Zilu offered to show Prince Xian a new incense he was testing in his study, perfect for reading and playing the zither. Prince Xian, expressing shared interests, agreed to accompany him. Ling Se took this opportunity to invite Ping'er to her room for a private talk, claiming she had prepared Ping'er's favorite things.
Once they were in Ling Se's room, Ling Se told Ping'er that Wang Zhujue would come to meet her there while Ling Se kept watch outside and Xu Zilu distracted Prince Xian. Ping'er confessed to Wang Zhujue that she absolutely did not want to marry Prince Xian and had fled Furong City to Linchun precisely to escape the engagement. She asked him if he would wait for her, and he promised he would, no matter how long it took.
Ping'er warned Wang Zhujue that Prince Xian was outwardly warm but inwardly cold and cunning, urging him never to provoke Prince Xian directly. Wang Zhujue reassured her, saying he was good at pretending and would avoid Prince Xian, promising to stay indoors studying diligently and not give Prince Xian any leverage. They both promised to take good care of themselves and wait for each other. In the study, Xu Zilu and Prince Xian discussed their shared interests in the arts.
Prince Xian mentioned acquiring items from the Ink Pavilion in Lingnan a few months prior. Xu Zilu remarked on the Ink Pavilion's reputation and expressed regret at not being able to visit it when he was in Lingnan the previous month. Prince Xian recalled the freeze disaster in Lingnan around that time and questioned why Xu Zilu would travel there. Xu Zilu explained he went to his family's Laurel Garden, which was severely affected, to comfort the victims.
On his hurried journey back due to a family emergency, he encountered bandits, barely escaping with his life. He noted that bandit activity was unusual in Lingnan after many years without reports. He also mentioned that a companion traveling with him was killed by the bandits but couldn't recall their name, only that they seemed to be from Furong City.
He recounted how, moments before dying, this person had given him a parcel containing something important and asked him to take it to Furong City. Prince Xian expressed concern about the bandits and vowed to report it to the Emperor to pacify the region if they were rampant. After returning to his mansion, Prince Xian instructed his subordinate, Liufeng, to investigate Xu Zilu.
He wanted to determine if a certain important item, which his own men, Yetian and Mu, had failed to recover, could be in Xu Zilu's possession. Prince Xian suspected Xu Zilu might have learned something during his trip to Lingnan last month, possibly connecting him to a spy from the Ministry of Justice whom Prince Xian's people were searching for.
Liufeng asked if Xu Zilu should be silenced, but Prince Xian dismissed the idea, stating that killing him now would be premature and could interfere with his larger plans. He ordered Liufeng to follow Xu Zilu and assess the situation before taking further action. News of Prince Xian's visit to the Xu Mansion reached Wu Qi, who arranged a meeting with Xu Zilu and Ling Se. Wu Qi welcomed them to the capital.
Ling Se shared her idea of opening a game shop near the academies, where students lacked recreational options after school. She proposed that Wu Qi invest in the venture, which he readily agreed to, offering to cover the cost of all the gaming equipment. As they discussed business, Wu Qi subtly warned Xu Zilu.
He acknowledged that having a connection with Prince Xian could make business smoother, but emphasized that safety was the most crucial aspect of their endeavors, suggesting it should be prioritized over profit. Xu Zilu agreed, stating that his family's safety and well-being were his primary concern.
Episode 21 Recap
Ling Se told Xu Zilu that she was going to visit Wanrong and wouldn't be joining him for dinner, causing Xu Zilu to playfully complain about always being left alone while others invited her out, joking that she had found "new lovers". Despite his teasing, they shared an affectionate moment before a worker arrived, mentioning the paint for Ling Se's new shop.
Ling Se asked for a carriage to take face powder to Wanrong and planned to go paint the shop herself. Xu Zilu initially said he wouldn't go, claiming he'd only get in the way, but changed his mind when she pressed him, agreeing to help in exchange for a reward. At the shop, they discovered someone searching the premises. Xu Zilu chased the intruder while Ling Se went to report to the authorities.
Xu Zilu confronted the person, demanding to know who sent them, but the intruder injured him with a knife before Lyu Qingfeng and his men arrived, causing the person to flee. Ling Se returned and was alarmed to find Xu Zilu bleeding, though he dismissed it as a minor injury. She scolded him for being reckless, especially after a recent close call in Lingnan, and expressed how worried she was.
Xu Zilu reassured her he was fine and promised to be more careful. Ling Se mused about the strangeness of a thief targeting her empty shop, and Xu Zilu speculated it was an inexperienced, "dishonorable" intruder. Lyu Qingfeng was investigating. Afterward, Xu Zilu, still concerned for Ling Se's safety, arranged for Butler Chen to assign four strong and capable workers to protect her.
Ling Se initially objected, finding them too fierce and potentially off-putting to customers, but Xu Zilu insisted, explaining he couldn't focus on anything else if he was constantly worrying about her. She eventually agreed to keep them for protection. Later, Yeniang and Tao Meili arrived in Furong City and visited Ling Se's newly opened "Joy Game Shop," bringing a red packet as a gift and complimenting the shop.
Xu Zilu also arrived with a large, auspicious tangerine display, calling it an upgrade and celebrating her opening the first game shop in the city, much to Ling Se's delight. Meanwhile, Ping'er was secretly reading a heartfelt note from Wang, expressing his longing for her, when Prince Xian unexpectedly arrived. She quickly hid the note.
The Prince brought her favorite stinky tofu and expressed concern about her looking thin, reaching out to touch her face, prompting Ping'er to ask him to behave himself. Prince Xian spoke about their impending marriage, decreed by the Emperor, and the public attention it would draw, emphasizing the need for her health to be perfect.
Ping'er, however, stated directly that she did not want to marry him, suggesting he could easily find a noble lady who truly loved him given his status. Prince Xian dismissed this, asserting he only desired her. He sternly warned her against attempting to escape again, stressing that defying the Emperor's decree by breaking the engagement would be a capital offense ("deceiving His Majesty"), with consequences too severe for her to bear alone.
Distressed by Prince Xian's warning, Ping'er felt she had to end things with Wang to protect him. She wrote a letter of farewell, stating their past was behind them and wishing for them to lead peaceful lives separately. She arranged for this letter to be delivered to Wang. Upon receiving the letter, Wang was heartbroken and worried about Ping'er. He rushed to the Marquis Mansion but was denied entry by the guards.
Determined to see her, he hid inside a vegetable cart entering the grounds. Seeing the heavy security, he then disguised himself as a maid ("tall maid") to move around the mansion unnoticed. He found Ping'er in her room and expressed his relief at seeing her. She had been eating very little due to her distress.
When he asked about her sudden decision to say goodbye in the letter, Ping'er urged him to focus on his upcoming Metropolitan Examination first and postpone their discussion until after it was over. Wang worried that he might not see her again after the exam. Later, Prince Xian arrived at the Marquis Mansion specifically to finalize the wedding date. He pressed for an immediate marriage, overriding Ping'er's attempts to delay by saying she wanted to stay with her grandfather longer.
Suddenly, Wang, still disguised as the tall maid, burst into the room and declared that Ping'er did not want to marry Prince Xian. The Marquis, unaware of Wang's true identity, initially scolded his "new maid" for speaking out of turn. However, Prince Xian recognized Wang and, furious, revealed his true identity. The Marquis demanded an explanation, and Ping'er confessed that she had brought Wang into the mansion because she loved him and did not want to marry Prince Xian.
She questioned if it was wrong to want to marry the person she loved. Enraged, the Marquis ordered Wang, calling him a "pervert," to be forcibly removed from the mansion. After Wang was dragged out, Prince Xian proposed that Ping'er move to his mansion to get better acquainted before the wedding.
The Marquis firmly refused, citing the impropriety of such an arrangement before the marriage ceremony and the potential damage to Ping'er's reputation, insisting that she stay at home to prepare for the wedding and not go anywhere else. Prince Xian reluctantly accepted this condition. Wang waited outside the mansion gates, hoping for a chance to see Ping'er. That night, Ping'er climbed over the wall to meet him outside in the rain.
Wang expressed concern for her safety, and Ping'er said she was desperate to see him. Wang swore he would risk his life to prevent her from marrying someone she did not love. Ping'er proposed they elope, but Wang refused, unwilling for her to suffer or be wronged. He asked her to wait until he passed the Metropolitan Examination and became the top scholar, promising to then ask his grandfather to petition the Emperor for their marriage.
Ping'er agreed to wait for him, regardless of the exam results. They then shared a kiss. Wang later prepared for the exam, resolved to succeed for Ping'er. Separately, Xu Yushan had been transporting goods for the Prince without full knowledge of their contents. During one shipment, a worker accidentally dropped a box, revealing the contents were firearms. This incident was reported to the Prince.
The Prince then met with Xu Yushan, admitting he was using his trade caravans to smuggle munitions. He outlined his plan to seize power and become Emperor with the support of Beiyun State and the military influence he would gain by marrying the Marquis Wei's granddaughter (Ping'er), who was connected to a Grand General. Xu Yushan was visibly shaken, bringing up the severe consequences of treason, which could lead to the extermination of his entire clan.
The Prince dismissed his fears, portraying it as a gamble between certain death upon failure and endless glory if successful. He reminded Xu Yushan that since he now knew the secret, he was complicit and his loyalty was required, promising him high office and wealth if their plan succeeded, even stating that Xu Zilu would not compare to him. Xu Yushan felt cornered and agreed.
Xu Zilu, having received reports from his subordinate about Xu Yushan's suspicious activities involving a Prince, grew concerned about the potential implication of the Xu family, despite Xu Yushan's removal from the family register. He felt their kinship remained. Xu Zilu decided he needed to speak with Xu Yushan and sent his subordinate to arrange a meeting. As Xu Yushan prepared to leave, possibly with more firearms, he was intercepted by the Prince.
The Prince stated he had warned Xu Yushan about the consequences of betrayal and ordered his men to eliminate him and dispose of the body, implying Xu Yushan was killed for attempting to meet Xu Zilu or for disloyalty.
Episode 22 Recap
In Xu Mansion, a subordinate reports to Prince Xian about a new discovery, presenting an agreement they found within the estate. Ling Shuo and Wang Zhujue return from their exams. Wang Zhujue initially claims the exam was difficult but then boasts about answering all questions and feeling closer to achieving his goal. Ling Se welcomes them and announces she has prepared a feast at the Joy Game Shop to celebrate their return.
Later, at the celebration dinner, Wu Qi arrives at the mansion, stating he saw the "Closed" sign and came to check. He then informs Xu Zilu that the third master of the Xu family accidentally fell into the water last night and was found this morning, his body swollen. Wu Qi offers condolences but claims to know nothing more about the incident. Xu Zilu goes to the Xu family's third master's mansion.
Prince Xian's men are also searching the premises, confirming they found fire lances in the warehouse area and ordered them burned. Prince Xian remarks that someone had been in the room before them. A servant interrupts to report there is something the prince wants in the third master's room, and Prince Xian, calling him a loyal servant, orders the house burned. Distraught, Xu Zilu returns home and tells Ling Se to avoid going out.
When she asks what's wrong, he dismisses her concerns, saying he's just dizzy and tired. Later that night, everyone is searching the mansion and Ling Se's shop. Ling Se returns, explaining she went out because Xu Zilu seemed unhappy and she wanted to buy him something to cheer him up. Xu Zilu becomes furious, scolding her for leaving on her own and expressing deep worry about her safety, questioning what would happen if she were kidnapped or encountered danger.
Ling Se is upset by his harsh reaction, reminding him she was trying to show she cared. Ling Shuo intervenes, asking them both to stop being angry and acknowledging their concern for each other. Xu Zilu meets with Lyu Qingfeng and shows him a drawing of a weapon. Lyu Qingfeng identifies it as a fire lance, a secret weapon of Qing State that ordinary people would not know about.
Xu Zilu confirms he saw this weapon and that Prince Xian later took it away. Lyu Qingfeng advises him not to mention this matter to anyone else and to pretend he doesn't know anything, as it's very important and requires thorough investigation. Prince Xian invites Xu Zilu for tea, praising the incense delivered from Linchun. Prince Xian hints at future business opportunities after his marriage to the princess, proposing they do "something different" business together.
Xu Zilu states he is just an honest businessman. Prince Xian tells him to think about it and mentions Xu Yushan's recent passing, asking if Xu Zilu has visited the mansion to mourn. Xu Zilu says he hasn't yet, and Prince Xian asks him to light an incense stick for him when he does.
Returning home, Xu Zilu tells Ling Se he will be busy focusing on making incense for the sacrificial ceremony and doesn't need to be called for meals. Ling Se, still upset by their previous argument, says she won't talk to him. Fu Ding brings food to Ling Se and explains that Xu Zilu is in a bad mood and is worried about many things, especially since their third master was killed.
Ling Se is shocked, realizing Xu Zilu had not told her his uncle was murdered. Fu Ding asks her not to be angry with Xu Zilu, revealing he saw him crying secretly and that Xu Zilu is truly worried about her safety, as she is the only person he really cares about now.
Xu Zilu meets Wu Qi late at night, telling him he believes Prince Xian was responsible for his third uncle's death because he refused to engage in smuggling military supplies with Beiyun State. He admits he saw fire lances hidden in his uncle's incense box. Xu Zilu states he wants to fight Prince Xian and asks for Wu Qi's help. Wu Qi replies that he generally avoids such matters and considers it the Xu family's business.
Xu Zilu points out that with his uncle gone, Prince Xian will likely target either the Xu or Wu family for the smuggling operation, and he believes Wu Qi would not engage in treason. Wu Qi says he has his own plans and warns Xu Zilu that Prince Xian already knows he visited Xu Yushan's mansion that night and advises him to be careful.
After meeting with Wu Qi, Xu Zilu is visibly worried, realizing Prince Xian knows of his visit and that refusing to cooperate will make him an enemy, potentially endangering the Xu family. He decides he cannot let Ling Se face this danger with him. Ling Se brings him soup. He abruptly tells her to return to Linchun tomorrow, arranged by Fu Ding, claiming she is a burden while he is busy.
Ling Se is hurt and confused, reminding him of their earlier agreement to return together and asking if he considers her his wife. He coldly replies he does not. When she refuses to leave, he offers her a choice between a consensual divorce or a repudiation letter. Distraught, Ling Se says she will leave on her own without requiring a letter from him.
After she leaves, Xu Zilu immediately instructs Fu Ding to send people to protect her and ensure she is not harmed. As the Winter Solstice sacrificial ceremony and the competition of incense sticks for praying approach, Wu Qi confirms his participation. Prince Xian meets with Wu Qi, acknowledging the Wu family's status as renowned incense merchants and hereditary Imperial Merchants, suggesting their selection is assured.
Prince Xian then brings up Xu Zilu, calling him talented but regrettable, claiming he used a deceptive trick – a contractual marriage – to gain the Imperial Merchant title, which Prince Xian calls a crime punishable by death. Prince Xian shows Wu Qi something (implied to be the agreement) and advises him, based on his regard for Wu Qi's talent, to find a reliable partner and avoid getting entangled with Xu Zilu.
Wu Qi seeks out Ling Se at her shop, finding her looking sad. She admits she misses Linchun. Wu Qi tells her the truth: Xu Zilu drove her away to protect her because he is being targeted by the powerful Prince Xian, and if Prince Xian decides to act, Xu Zilu will have no defense and face death. Ling Se asks why Prince Xian would do this.
Wu Qi reveals his own investigation discovered Prince Xian was behind Xu Yushan's smuggling with Beiyun State and that Prince Xian had also approached him, but he refused. He suspects Prince Xian has something on Xu Zilu, as Xu Zilu is an upright person who would not willingly engage in such activities. Ling Se thanks him for telling her and decides to go home. Prince Xian confronts Xu Zilu at Xu Mansion.
He first questions a servant named Ah You, who was present at Xu Yushan's mansion, demanding to know if Xu Zilu entered the third master's study that night. Ah You refuses to answer initially, is threatened, but maintains no one entered. Prince Xian then tells Ah You he will care for his family if he reveals if Xu Zilu entered, but Ah You still insists he did not. Prince Xian accepts this response.
Prince Xian then presses Xu Zilu to cooperate with him. Xu Zilu questions the penalty for smuggling with an enemy state, implicitly acknowledging his knowledge of Prince Xian's activities. Prince Xian recognizes this as defiance. Xu Zilu refuses to work with him, explaining he cannot provide goods that would harm his country's citizens.
Prince Xian declares that if Xu Zilu is not with him, he is an enemy, but Xu Zilu reminds him that as an appointed Imperial Merchant, he is not easily removed under the Emperor's nose. Prince Xian retorts that he will prove Xu Zilu's cleverness is self-defeating. Ling Se returns after the confrontation, having seemingly heard parts of the conversation or found Xu Zilu immediately after. She confronts him, frustrated that he kept everything from her.
She reminds him that they are husband and wife and should face difficulties together. Xu Zilu acknowledges she knows. Ling Se states Wu Qi told her everything, including the danger, but despite her fear for herself, she is more afraid of something happening to him. She declares that Xu Zilu is the person she has chosen for life and that she will stand by him, even facing grave danger, refusing to be cast aside again. Xu Zilu apologizes.
The next day, for the incense competition, Ling Se and Xu Zilu meet Wu Qi, asking him to help by taking the Xu family's incense box to the palace with him. Wu Qi agrees but asks for a favor in return. On their way to the palace gate, they are attacked by men attempting to seize the incense box, but they fight them off. Upon arrival, as the eunuch requests their incense, Wu Qi presents his family's incense.
When Xu Zilu asks about the Xu family's incense that Wu Qi promised to carry, Wu Qi feigns ignorance, calls them naive for expecting help from a competitor, and denies making a promise. Then, addressing the eunuch and the crowd, Wu Qi publicly reports that Xu Zilu and Ling Se have a false marriage agreement for the sake of the Imperial Merchant title, denouncing it as an unforgivable act.
Episode 23 Recap
When a court eunuch arrived to investigate the revealed contractual marriage between Xu Zilu and Ling Se, Wu Qi presented their signed agreement as proof, accusing them of faking their relationship to gain Imperial Merchant status. He claimed to be an honest citizen who couldn't condone their actions. The eunuch prepared to apprehend them, but Xu Zilu immediately stepped forward, stating his wife was unaware of the agreement and that he alone was responsible, pleading for her release.
The eunuch insisted both were guilty as both names were on the document. Just then, the Empress arrived. Ping'er, who was present, greeted her as "Aunt." The Empress inquired about the commotion and was informed about the accusation against Xu Zilu and Ling Se for pretending to be married for the Imperial Merchant selection. The eunuch showed her the agreement and explained that if proven true, Xu's Shop would lose its qualification and the couple would face severe punishment.
The Empress, stating she liked Xu's incense, offered leniency: she would preserve their Imperial Merchant status if they divorced, promising to arrange suitable new marriages for them. Xu Zilu refused, declaring his willingness to abandon his qualification, face ruin and imprisonment, as long as he could stay with Ling Se. He vowed never to marry anyone but her. Ling Se echoed his sentiment, stating she wished only to marry Xu Zilu and would face life and death together with him.
The Empress was moved by their display of genuine affection, noting that while true couples often abandon each other in times of trouble, this contractual couple showed true devotion, proving their feelings were real. She declared their agreement might be fake, but their true feelings were not and granted them freedom.
However, with the incense selection ceremony nearing and their incense pack missing, the Empress lent them her swift palace horses to retrieve it, allowing Xu Zilu's incense to be selected for the sacrificial ceremony in time. Prince Xian was informed that Xu Zilu's incense had been selected. He questioned if Wu Qi had followed his instructions, and his subordinate confirmed Wu Qi had submitted the agreement as ordered, but the Empress's unexpected intervention had saved them.
The subordinate speculated that Ping'er, whose aunt was the Empress, must have helped them. Prince Xian received further news that Beiyun urgently needed goods and decided Xu Zilu could no longer be allowed to live, planning to find a better reason to eliminate him. Ling Se was furious upon learning Wu Qi had sided with Prince Xian and betrayed them. She and Xu Zilu sought revenge by dumping trash and posting derogatory signs outside Wu Qi's residence.
Wu Qi was enraged to find his home defaced when he returned, complaining to Prince Xian about being targeted by Ling Se and Xu Zilu. Prince Xian, assuring Wu Qi he would retaliate for his troubles, ordered officials to seal the Joy Game Shop, labeling it as fraudulent. Ling Se felt Prince Xian was targeting her and her friends, having first interfered with Ping'er and Wang Zhujue and now closing her shop.
She was determined to fight back despite Xu Zilu's urging for caution to avoid provoking Prince Xian further. Ling Se sought out Wang Zhujue and her companions, Ling Shuo and Tao Meili, to discuss their counter-attack. Ping'er then arrived, revealing she had been forced to marry Prince Xian again. Her grandfather, unable to bear the thought of her misery, had secretly released her to elope with Wang Zhujue.
Ping'er shared a crucial piece of information: Prince Xian had been involved in long-term smuggling with Beiyun State. She believed that finding evidence of this could be the key to bringing him down. Xu Zilu tried to dissuade Ling Se, explaining the seriousness of the matter, as it was not just illegal trade but treason.
He revealed that Prince Xian was smuggling military-grade fire lances, the most important weapon of the Qing state currently at war with Beiyun, exposing Prince Xian's intention to collude with the enemy. This knowledge confirmed that Xu Zilu's Third Uncle had been silenced by Prince Xian after discovering his military smuggling. Ling Se was upset Xu Zilu hadn't told her this sooner, feeling he was hiding things despite their promise to face danger together.
Ling Shuo interrupted their argument, emphasizing that finding the evidence was the priority. Fukuding produced a drawing of a foreman from the Third Master's business, explaining he was actually Prince Xian's informant who vanished after the Third Master's death. Finding this distinctive man, described as having a large head and a strong accent, became their sole lead. Ling Se divided the group to search the city.
Wang Zhujue's strategy of asking street children paid off, leading him to discover the foreman had recently been seen near Xu's Incense Shop. Unbeknownst to them, Prince Xian was already acting against Xu Zilu. He had instructed the foreman to secretly add potassium nitrate to the incense prepared for the sacrificial ceremony, intending for it to explode during the event and incriminate Xu Zilu.
Tao Meili and Ling Shuo were watching over the incense preparation at the shop to prevent any issues before the ceremony. Prince Xian's instructed foreman showed up, attempting to tamper with the incense. Tao Meili noticed the strange ingredient and recognized the man from the drawing. She chased him out, finding Xu Zilu and Ling Se already pursuing him. She alerted them that he had added something to the incense.
They all pursued the foreman into a forest, where they overheard him confirming to Prince Xian's men that he had completed the task and they were planning a trade with Beiyun State the following day at a dilapidated temple east of the city. Xu Zilu devised a plan to ambush them during the transaction. Xu Zilu and his group waited in ambush at the temple, expecting to catch Prince Xian and the Beiyun representatives trading.
However, Prince Xian was aware of their plan. He had anticipated their move and instead sent Wu Qi with the actual goods to meet Beiyun elsewhere, using the foreman as a decoy. Xu Zilu and his group apprehended the foreman and the few men with him but quickly realized these were not the Beiyun traders. Before they could figure out what happened, officials arrived and arrested the foreman.
Soon after, more officials arrived to arrest Xu Zilu, stating there was an issue with the incense at the sacrificial ceremony and he was the one responsible. Despite Ling Se's protests, Xu Zilu agreed to go with them, urging her to protect herself. Meanwhile, Prince Xian confronted Ping'er, informing her that the incense explosion had occurred, sealing Xu Zilu's fate. He demanded she return with him, reminding her that her efforts to delay wouldn't change the outcome.
When Wang Zhujue returned, he found Prince Xian at the Xu Mansion. Prince Xian had brought Wang Zhujue's father, the Governor, claiming he was a suspect in collusion with Xu Zilu. Seeing Wang Zhujue and his father held captive, Ping'er realized it was all Prince Xian's elaborate trap. Prince Xian used the lives of everyone present as leverage, forcing Ping'er to agree to marry him to protect them. Ping'er reluctantly agreed and was immediately taken to Prince Xian's mansion. She entrusted Wang Zhujue, who was struggling with his father's arrest and her departure, to the care of her friends.
Episode 24 (Ending) Recap
The Xu family mansion and shops were sealed by officials. With nowhere else to go, Ling Se and the others were in a difficult situation. Wanrong arrived quickly upon hearing the news and offered shelter at the Lyu Mansion. Ling Se initially hesitated, not wanting to impose further, but Wanrong insisted, reminding her of their friendship. Seeing that Wang Zhujue was unwell and needed rest, Ling Se agreed to accept Wanrong’s help, sending everyone ahead.
Before leaving, Ling Se instructed Fuding to go to the prison immediately to inquire about Xu Zilu's condition, suspecting Prince Xian was behind their troubles and fearing for Xu Zilu's safety in prison. Meanwhile, Prince Xian was with Ping'er, trying to get her to take medicine. Ping'er was despondent, saying she couldn't accept what he offered. Prince Xian insisted she must, highlighting the grand wedding he was planning for her.
Ping'er then made a condition: if Prince Xian would agree to see Madam Xu (Ling Se), she would take the medicine and be a "living bride" for their wedding. Prince Xian reluctantly agreed for Ping'er's sake. Ling Se arrived at Prince Xian's mansion late at night, daring to seek an audience. Prince Xian initially refused to see her, surprised by her boldness, but was persuaded by Ping'er.
Ling Se entered and proposed a business deal, presenting herself as the acting head of the Xu family business. She asserted the Xu family's integrity and the continued viability of the incense workshop despite the current difficulties. Prince Xian expressed his past admiration for Xu's and regret that Xu Zilu had been uncooperative, suggesting things would have been easier had he dealt with Ling Se from the start.
Ling Se affirmed her authority to make decisions for the family in her husband’s absence. Her condition for cooperation was simple: she asked Prince Xian to ensure Xu Zilu received a public trial rather than being secretly killed in prison. She stated she needed to witness his fate openly to report back to the family, implying she feared Prince Xian might secretly assassinate him.
Prince Xian, understanding her veiled concern, agreed to her request, stating he would ensure Xu Zilu's death was "well-publicized" during his trial the day after tomorrow. Ling Se thanked him and took her leave. In prison, Prince Xian's men attempted to force Xu Zilu to sign a confession, threatening his family if he refused. Xu Zilu resisted.
Later, Lyu Qingfeng visited Xu Zilu, bringing him food and news of Ling Se's courageous visit to Prince Xian and the deal she made to secure a public trial. Xu Zilu was deeply moved and realized that Ling Se's actions had likely saved him from being killed in prison for refusing to sign the forced confession.
Lyu Qingfeng mentioned that Ministry of Justice agents had been investigating Prince Xian but two had disappeared in Lingnan and their bodies were never found. This sparked a memory for Xu Zilu. He recounted encountering what he thought were bandits in Lingnan a few months prior, where he had saved someone who gave him a package and instructed him to take it to Furong City if something happened to them.
Xu Zilu now suspected this person was one of the Ministry of Justice agents killed by Prince Xian's men, and that the box contained important evidence. He told Lyu Qingfeng the box was still at his mansion. Lyu Qingfeng noted it might be the only clue. Xu Zilu then asked Lyu Qingfeng to deliver a letter to Ling Se.
After receiving Xu Zilu's letter and understanding the box was the key, Ling Se was determined to retrieve it from the sealed Xu Mansion. Despite the heavy guard presence, she decided to go back, planning to improvise upon arrival. She gathered Liu Yeniang, Tao Meili, and Fuding, while Wang Zhujue also joined them and suggested using a slingshot to distract the guards, though this proved ineffective. Tao Meili bravely offered to run ahead and draw the guards away.
As guards pursued, Ling Se slipped into the mansion. She found the wooden box but initially found it empty. Trusting Xu Zilu wouldn't send her for an empty container, she tried opening it forcefully, discovering a hidden layer containing a document – a crucial letter. Outside, Fuding was captured while distracting more guards. Worried by Ling Se's prolonged absence, Tao Meili also entered the mansion. Together, they attempted to escape by disguising themselves as servants.
During their escape attempt, Fuding was apprehended. Tao Meili then sacrificed herself, holding back the pursuing soldiers to buy Ling Se time to escape with the letter. Xu Zilu was brought before Minister Li for his public trial. The main charge was tampering with the incense used in the Sacrificial Ceremony, a crime of sacrilege.
Xu Zilu pleaded innocent, arguing that the incense delivered for the ceremony had been thoroughly checked and was fine, suggesting the evidence presented had been tampered with later. Minister Li called forward two witnesses. They falsely testified that Xu Zilu had ordered them to substitute expensive ingredients with cheaper ones to save money, resulting in the impurities that caused the incense to explode. They claimed they were merely following his instructions.
Xu Zilu vehemently denied knowing the witnesses, accusing Prince Xian of framing him. He then boldly revealed the Lingnan incident, stating the "bandits" were actually assassins sent by Prince Xian to kill Ministry of Justice agents who had uncovered evidence of Prince Xian's arms smuggling operation with Beiyun State. Xu Zilu explained that Prince Xian had been pursuing him ever since learning of his connection to the agent he saved, believing he knew about the smuggling plot.
He claimed the incense incident was just another scheme by Prince Xian to eliminate him and prevent his treasonous activities from being exposed. Prince Xian immediately denied the accusations, calling them baseless slander and urging Minister Li not to listen to him. Minister Li demanded evidence. Xu Zilu suggested investigating his third uncle, Xu Yushan, stating that Prince Xian had him killed because he discovered the smuggling plot.
He pointed to Xu Yushan's warehouse in Changqing Alley and his business records, which he claimed would show Prince Xian had used them to store and trade military arms with Beiyun State via trade caravans. Prince Xian vehemently denied these allegations and pressured Minister Li to sentence Xu Zilu immediately for slandering a royal prince. Just as Minister Li was about to pass judgment, Wu Qi entered the courtroom and announced he could prove Xu Zilu's claims were true.
He presented individuals (identified as envoys from Beiyun State and Prince Xian's subordinates) and fire lances, stating these were evidence found on a carriage involved in the smuggling. Wu Qi explained that Prince Xian had threatened his family and forced him to participate in transporting the smuggled arms. He had feigned cooperation to gain Prince Xian's trust and collect this evidence. Prince Xian panicked and signaled his guard, Liufeng.
Liufeng immediately drew his sword and killed the captured individuals in the courtroom. He was then apprehended but quickly confessed that he, Xu Zilu, and Wu Qi had conspired to frame Prince Xian and that Prince Xian was innocent. Immediately after his false confession, Liufeng killed himself.
With all the crucial witnesses and evidence handlers now dead, Prince Xian seized the opportunity, declaring Liufeng's dying words proved the conspiracy between Xu Zilu, Wu Qi, and his own guard to frame him, and demanded Minister Li arrest them. Outside the courtroom, Ling Se was blocked from entering, despite explaining she had crucial evidence. Just as the guards were about to forcibly remove her, the Empress arrived and ordered them to let Ling Se enter the court with her.
The Empress announced she was merely observing but expected Minister Li to preside justly. Prince Xian pleaded with the Empress, claiming he had been unjustly framed by Xu Zilu and the others and requesting her support. Xu Zilu reiterated that Prince Xian was guilty and had destroyed the evidence. Prince Xian, confident that without the original document Xu Zilu had no proof, challenged him to produce evidence now. Ling Se stepped forward and declared she had the evidence.
She produced the document she had retrieved from the Xu Mansion – Prince Xian's secret letter to the King of Beiyun State. Ling Se read the letter aloud, detailing Prince Xian's promise to deliver 8,000 fire lances, confirmation of payment received, and expectation of reciprocal military support from Beiyun State, outlining their mutual plan. Prince Xian was left speechless and exposed. Minister Li, finding the evidence conclusive, ordered Prince Xian's arrest.
After Prince Xian was imprisoned, Wang Zhujue found Ping'er, who was overjoyed that her father had also been released and their troubles were over. Ping'er's grandfather arrived and, seeing the pair together, remarked on Wang Zhujue's simple nature. He then proposed that Wang Zhujue join their family by marrying into the Marquis Mansion. Wang Zhujue eagerly accepted, declaring he would do anything to be with Ping'er.
Later, Xu Zilu and Ling Se held a new wedding ceremony, attended by family, including Ling Se's mother, and friends like Wu Qi, Tao Meili, Liu Yeniang, Fuding, and Wang Zhujue and Ping'er. They performed the traditional rites, bowing to heaven and earth, to their parents, and to each other. Ling Se's mother gave them red envelopes and playfully urged them to have a grandchild soon. The ceremony concluded, and they retired to the bridal chamber.
Alone, they reflected on the difference between this heartfelt wedding and their first ceremonial marriage based on an agreement. Ling Se still cherished the original agreement document, which she called her treasure and expressed gratitude for, but also reminded Xu Zilu of the financial terms they had agreed upon. Xu Zilu affectionately called her a "money-grubber" as they shared a playful moment.
A flashback showed Xu Zilu discussing with Wu Qi how they had planned to expose Prince Xian using a fake agreement written on paper with Prince Xian's unique pattern, ensuring that when Prince Xian stole the real agreement and gave it to Wu Qi, they could substitute it with the fake one.
This elaborate plan, which included arranging for the fake agreement to be supposedly destroyed by the Empress, was their strategy to make Prince Xian believe the evidence was gone, allowing Ling Se to present the real document at the critical moment.
