Decreed by Fate Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Decreed by Fate Synopsis
After an imperial decree, Ye Rong’er is engaged to Yin Sishen, a general who has never met her before.
In order to solve her own divorce lawsuit, Ye Rong’er decides to setting up a breakup shop, becoming a special first-class matchmaker, solving cases for people every day.
By coincidence, Lu Tingxiao and Fang Xianxun both join the breakup shop.
Ye Rong’er finds that both of them seem to approach her with an unknown purpose.
To her surprise, it seems that the “husband” of her escaped marriage, Yin Sishen, is hiding among them.….
Decreed by Fate Recap
Episode 1 Recap
In the bustling capital, matchmakers swarmed the Yin Mansion, eager to secure a marriage for the victorious General Yin. They tirelessly pitched various young ladies: Lady Liu, described as exquisitely beautiful and tender like a willow, Lady Gao, buxom and elegant with a face promising good fortune, and Lady Ji, well-educated, reasonable, quiet, and gentle.
However, Butler Zhang repeatedly informed them that General Yin had no plans for marriage and was currently out, leaving the matchmakers frustrated that they did not even know what the elusive Marquis Jing'an, Yin Sishen, looked like. Meanwhile, a stark contrast to Yin Sishen's popularity, the princess of Lord Lian's Mansion, Ye Rong'er, was deemed unmarriageable.
Gossip spread on the streets, painting her as a jinx whose birth brought death to her parents, a "nominal princess" with the fate of a lone star. People called her the notorious "female Zhang Fei" and remarked that even Lu Tingxiao, a retired first-class matchmaker, could not find her a husband. As Ye Rong'er was out, she encountered an old man forcibly trying to marry a young woman. Without hesitation, Ye Rong'er's maid, Ling, questioned the man’s actions.
Ye Rong'er then stepped forward, declaring herself the Princess of Lord Lian's Mansion, and asserted her superior power. She physically confronted the man, who retorted by threatening her with General Yin’s influence. Unfazed, Ye Rong'er mockingly questioned who General Yin was. She instructed Ling to take the distressed woman to the local government office while she bravely covered their escape. Just as the situation escalated, Fang Xianxun appeared and bravely joined the fray, helping Ye Rong'er fend off the attackers.
He advised her to flee since she seemed to lack martial arts skills, but Ye Rong'er, impressed by his prowess, jokingly asked him to be her master. After they successfully drove off the ruffians, Fang Xianxun warned the old man against troubling the woman again. Thrilled by the experience, Ye Rong'er invited Fang Xianxun for a drink, and they discovered he had recently returned to the capital.
At the winehouse, Ye Rong'er's boisterous drinking style drew stares, to which she fiercely responded with a threat to "dig their eyeballs out." Her merriment was cut short when Ling found her, calling her "Lady," which prompted Ye Rong'er to quickly excuse herself, promising Fang Xianxun they would meet another day. Back at the mansion, Butler Lv was distraught over Ye Rong'er's unmarried status at twenty years old, comparing her to other ladies her age who were already wed.
Ye Rong'er, however, insisted on marrying for love and understanding, like her parents, rather than settling for the wrong person. When Butler Lv mentioned a new potential suitor, Jia Youcai, a newly ranked scholar, Ye Rong'er immediately dismissed him as another "boring scholar." In an act of desperation, Butler Lv theatrically threatened to harm himself, invoking her deceased parents, if she refused to meet Jia Youcai.
Later, Ling confided in Ye Rong'er about Jia Youcai's true character: a philandering man who would write about his romantic conquests and sell the stories for profit, ruining women's reputations. Upon hearing this, Ye Rong'er’s interest piqued, and she agreed to meet him that very afternoon, but insisted on choosing the meeting place. Her choice was Jiaofang, a renowned establishment filled with handsome male musicians.
Ye Rong'er's plan was clear: a visit to such a place, coupled with Jia Youcai's flair for scandalous writing, would surely cement her reputation as an unseemly woman, thus deterring Butler Lv from arranging any more matches for her. As she arrived, excited at the prospect of meeting "handsome young men," Lu Tingxiao was being escorted to a private inner courtyard in Jiaofang for a medicinal bath.
His attendant explained that the public bathhouses were too crowded and would attract undue attention, so he had cleared out all the musicians here to ensure the young master's privacy. Unaware of this, Ye Rong'er stumbled upon Lu Tingxiao in his bath, mistook him for a male musician, and boldly propositioned him to help her put on a show for extra money. Lu Tingxiao questioned her desire to appear "loose and amorous" and asked about her future lover's potential misunderstanding.
Ye Rong'er, however, confidently stated that a true lover would never misjudge her character. Despite her persuasive attempts, Lu Tingxiao initially refused to cooperate, frustrating Ye Rong'er, who nonetheless admired his striking appearance, concluding he must be a "top star." Soon after, Jia Youcai arrived, introducing himself as the "new scholar" and praising Ye Rong'er's beauty. Ye Rong'er immediately launched into her act, presenting herself as a boisterous woman from a general's family who disregarded manners.
She challenged him to drink, boasting of her capacity and her mastery of drinking games, dice, and dominoes. To her surprise, Jia Youcai seemed charmed by her "talented, versatile, and interesting" nature, making her realize he was harder to repel than expected. Just then, Lu Tingxiao dramatically entered, pretending to be Ye Rong'er's jilted lover.
He angrily confronted Jia Youcai, claiming that Ye Rong'er had "served over 30 musicians" in Jiaofang over the years and that she had once sworn to grow old with him. Initially, Ye Rong'er found the exaggeration amusing but encouraged Lu Tingxiao to "do something strong" to ensure the plan succeeded. Jia Youcai, however, surprisingly declared that he didn't mind her past, as long as she stopped associating with "pretty boys" after they married.
Undeterred, Lu Tingxiao intensified his act, clinging to Ye Rong'er and continuing his dramatic pleas until Jia Youcai, overwhelmed, abruptly excused himself and left. Ye Rong'er paid Lu Tingxiao for his performance. As he departed, Lu Tingxiao grumbled about the "female Zhang Fei," revealing his true disdain and his only interest in her status as a "nominal princess" whom he believed would be "easy to control without her parents."
Later, Ye Rong'er discussed her aspirations with Ling, reaffirming her desire for a marriage based on "heartfelt understanding and mutual affection." She excitedly spoke of two "extraordinary men" she had met that day, but regretted forgetting their names, noting one was the "courtesan of Jiaofang." Ling, concerned, reminded her that a woman could not serve two husbands. Ye Rong'er then questioned the unfairness of society, where men could have multiple wives and concubines, but women were restricted to one husband.
Ling, though not always understanding Ye Rong'er's progressive thoughts, expressed her unwavering trust. Ye Rong'er playfully joked that if she were a man, she would marry Ling. The very next day, news of the Jiaofang incident had spread like wildfire throughout the capital. People gossiped, convinced that the "female Zhang Fei" had brutally attacked Jia Youcai. Ye Rong'er adamantly denied the accusations, insisting she hadn't left the mansion since returning, and called upon Ling to corroborate her story.
Butler Lv, in despair, lamented that no one would ever dare to propose to Ye Rong'er now. Ye Rong'er, in turn, declared that she would simply not marry and would happily remain with them forever. Her words, however, were quickly interrupted by the arrival of an imperial edict.
The decree, issued "by the order of the Emperor," praised Princess Ye Rong'er as "quiet and elegant, gentle and gorgeous," and shockingly betrothed her to Marquis Jing'an, Yin Sishen, ordering them to choose a suitable date for their wedding. Ye Rong'er stared in utter disbelief.
Episode 2 Recap
Butler Lv was deeply worried about the marital prospects of Princess Ye Rong'er. His worries were soon resolved by an imperial edict that decreed her marriage to Marquis Jing'an, Yin Sishen, instructing them to pick an auspicious date for the wedding. Ye Rong'er was stunned, questioning why the Emperor was suddenly concerned with her marriage.
While a servant suggested General Yin was a valiant and exceptional man, Ye Rong'er scoffed, dismissing rumors and declaring she would not marry simply because commanded. She planned to run away, but Butler Lv, proud to have fulfilled his duty to her deceased parents by securing the marriage, had his guards intercept her, ensuring she would attend the wedding.
On the wedding day at the Yin Mansion, guests congratulated the groom and gossiped about the bride, calling her a "female Zhang Fei" and wondering about her appearance. Ye Rong'er, observing the proceedings, noted that Yin Sishen was a serious man, even reading a military report on his wedding day.
However, her initial slight approval turned to anger when she witnessed a woman, who appeared to be her cousin, embracing Yin Sishen and tearfully asking why they couldn't be together if they loved each other. Convinced of an affair, Ye Rong'er immediately resolved to leave. Her maid, Ling, pledged her loyalty and refused to be left behind, bringing Ye Rong'er's cherished "Stars" hairpin. To escape, Ye Rong'er staged a dramatic suicide by hanging herself, then fled with Ling.
Yin Sishen's men were ordered to kill anyone who dared to reveal what happened that day. Three months later, Ye Rong'er, now living in Pingyang under the alias Wenren Jing, reflected on her predicament. She discovered a precedent for annulment of imperial marriages and decided her primary goal was to become a matchmaker herself to facilitate her own divorce. She opened Boqing Hall, falsely claiming it was run by Lu Tingxiao, a special first-class matchmaker from the capital.
Boqing Hall quickly gained notoriety in Pingyang for specializing in divorces and advocating for women's independence, much to the chagrin of Director Liu Zhan of Yinshu Pavilion, who viewed her business as a destructive "tumor" in the matchmaker community. Meanwhile, General Yin Sishen was also in Pingyang. His subordinate informed him that there was news of his wife. He declared he wanted her to return to him willingly.
Missing person notices for his wife had been posted, but many other young women were also disappearing in Pingyang, which Yin Sishen deduced was the work of a premeditated organization. He instructed his men to investigate further, and acknowledged that "the other thing" had been taken care of. Elsewhere, Lu Tingxiao, the actual special first-class matchmaker, was gambling in a restaurant when Vice-general Wang arrived.
They sparred playfully, with Wang noting Lu Tingxiao's enduring handsomeness and recalling a time three years prior when Lu Tingxiao had taken thirty military canes for him, an act Lu Tingxiao dismissed as minor. Lu Tingxiao then revealed his mission in Pingyang: to find Chonglou, a secret organization that trained women as spies to infiltrate and harm officials in both the Southern and Northern kingdoms. Wang pledged his assistance.
Back in Pingyang, Wenren Jing executed her latest scheme to secure a divorce for Mrs. Ma. Disguised as a flirtatious mistress, she enticed Mr. Ma in a private room at Jufu Restaurant, feigning deep affection and mentioning his promise to buy her a house. As planned, Mrs. Ma burst in with her entourage, catching her husband in the act.
Wenren Jing, maintaining her role, tearfully pleaded her love for Mr. Ma and even offered to be a mistress, further enraging Mrs. Ma and solidifying her case for divorce. Director Liu Zhan, however, arrived to expose the supposed mistress, accusing Boqing Hall of fabricating affairs to break up marriages. He attempted to remove Wenren Jing's veil, but she cleverly turned the crowd against him, asking if they wanted to see the "fox spirit" he was protecting.
In the commotion, Wenren Jing fled, but soon found herself cornered. She then encountered Fang Xianxun, who recognized her despite her disguise and jokingly accused her of either being interested in him or setting a trap. Wenren Jing, in a desperate whisper, asked him for help, revealing her name as Wenren Jing of Boqing Hall. After Liu Zhan's men searched the restaurant, Liu Zhan mistakenly believed Wenren Jing was still trapped inside.
Confident, he left his men to guard the Jufu Restaurant and went to Boqing Hall to confront Ling, the "other tumor," leaving Wenren Jing free to escape. Wenren Jing then asked Fang Xianxun for a further favor: to impersonate her, the "tumor," and lead Liu Zhan's remaining men away. Fang Xianxun agreed, though with a slight hesitation about her scrutinizing his physique.
Fang Xianxun, disguised as Wenren Jing, successfully drew the attention of Liu Zhan's men and led them on a chase away from Jufu Restaurant. Along the way, he encountered a group of men who, mistaking him for a beautiful woman, propositioned him. Fang Xianxun, after flirting back, engaged them in a brawl, revealing his true identity and then provocatively declaring himself to be Liu Zhan, Director of Yinshu Pavilion, and daring them to destroy his family.
This left the enraged men determined to seek out Yinshu Pavilion. Meanwhile, Liu Zhan arrived at Boqing Hall, only to find the door closed. Ling, guarding the entrance, informed him that the director was unavailable and refused him entry. Liu Zhan challenged the legitimacy of Boqing Hall, questioning the absence of their supposed first-class matchmaker, Lu Tingxiao, whom he claimed had retired.
When Ling dodged his questions, Liu Zhan demanded to see the official seal, jade plate, and certificate, essential for operating a matchmaker hall. Ling deflected, suggesting such valuable items were not for casual display and implying that Liu Zhan's presence made it seem as though he needed Boqing Hall's divorce services. After Ling closed the door, Liu Zhan threatened to involve his powerful uncle in the imperial court to investigate. Just then, the real Wenren Jing arrived, confronting Liu Zhan directly, asking who dared to demand her matchmaker hall leave Pingyang.
Episode 3 Recap
Liu Zhan, the director of Yinshu Pavilion, grew suspicious when Lu Tingxiao, the supposed director of Boqing Hall, remained absent for an extended period. Believing Wenren Jing was operating under false pretenses, Liu Zhan arrived at Boqing Hall with his associates, demanding that the establishment "roll out of Pingyang." Just as the situation grew tense, a man suddenly appeared, presenting himself as Lu Tingxiao and brandishing a golden folding fan bestowed by His Majesty.
Wenren Jing’s assistant, witnessing the man's striking appearance, described him as "so pretty that no one can compare," while Wenren Jing internally worried that she, a "Li Gui," had just encountered the true "Li Kui." The man, now seated as the director, assured Liu Zhan and other matchmakers that he had clarified Wenren Jing's early arrival in Pingyang and would speak favorably for them in the next evaluation.
Satisfied for the moment, Liu Zhan's group departed, though Liu Zhan muttered that Boqing Hall's freedom would be short-lived once the new chairman of the Matchmaker Society arrived. After Liu Zhan and his entourage left, Wenren Jing and her assistant debated the true identity of the man claiming to be Lu Tingxiao.
Her assistant found it hard to believe a top-class matchmaker would be so young and recounted seeing him in Jiaofang, a performance venue in the capital, suggesting he might be a musician or a patron. Wenren Jing considered the possibility that he was the real Lu Tingxiao, which would spell trouble for her, or that he was an imposter with a deeper, more sinister agenda.
Desperate, she briefly considered "sacrificing her beauty" to glean information, but her assistant quickly dismissed the idea. They attempted to flee, but Lu Tingxiao stopped them. Wenren Jing then tried to trick him with poisoned tea and desserts, only for him to effortlessly reveal her ploy, critiquing her "inexperienced" approach and lack of knowledge about holding one's breath. Wenren Jing, now tied up, demanded answers about his true identity and intentions. Lu Tingxiao proposed they each ask three questions.
Wenren Jing's first question was direct: "Are you Lu Tingxiao?" He initially denied it, but his racing pulse—which she was monitoring—gave him away, prompting him to retort that she wouldn't believe him if he said yes. It was then his turn to ask why she was impersonating him in Pingyang.
Wenren Jing confessed that she needed to become a top-class matchmaker to handle her own divorce case, which an official named Lord Song deemed too difficult for anyone else to manage. She admitted to using Lu Tingxiao's name because of his widespread fame and elusive nature. For her second question, Wenren Jing asked why he had helped her. He explained that Lord Song had reported the "mess" she caused, compelling him to intervene.
Lu Tingxiao then asked why she only accepted divorce cases. Wenren Jing revealed she had married a "heartless man who has two faces" and wished to save other women from similar fates. Finally, she asked if his personal agenda was unrelated to her, which he confirmed, though he would not elaborate on his purpose. With their questions answered, Wenren Jing declared that they should "stay out of each other's business."
However, Lu Tingxiao rejected this, asserting that she had nearly ruined his reputation and demanded her full obedience, threatening to expose her if she refused. He subtly hinted at his powerful connections in the imperial court, stating that his young age as a top-class matchmaker was proof. Wenren Jing, though indignant, had no choice but to comply, knowing she needed to tolerate the situation until she became a top-class matchmaker herself.
He then humorously grilled her about why she was seen in Jiaofang, a place "full of male musicians," implying he had seen her there disguised as a man. Exhausted, he announced he was going to sleep, then proceeded to claim her master bedroom as his own and ordered her out. Meanwhile, Yin Sishen's cousin, Yu Wanyi, who had eloped with her lover Bai Jia shortly after Yin Sishen's wedding, found herself in dire circumstances.
Bai Jia sold her to Baihua Brothel to settle his gambling debts. He cruelly forced her to drink a potion that would cause her immense pain and eventual death if she ever saw or thought of her lover again. Later, during a guard change, Yu Wanyi managed to escape the brothel. She stumbled upon a philanthropist named Mr. Hong, pleading for rescue.
Mr. Hong, acknowledging his "prestige in Pingyang," offered to redeem her and settled a hefty sum with the brothel’s proprietor, promising to send the money to his mansion. Yu Wanyi, grateful and having nowhere else to go, accepted his offer to stay at his mansion, unaware that she had merely exchanged one dangerous situation for another. Back at Boqing Hall, Wenren Jing's assistants lamented their financial woes.
Despite taking on many divorce cases, Wenren Jing's destructive methods had led to losses—such as breaking antique jewelry during the Zhou family's divorce—and the hall's expenses left them with little money. Wenren Jing, still wary of Lu Tingxiao, used her father's lie-detecting method to test him. Although he seemed truthful, she remained suspicious and resolved to watch him all night. The next day, Wenren Jing grumbled while cleaning Lu Tingxiao's room, complaining about being played and ordered around by him.
Lu Tingxiao, unfazed, returned and again asserted his ownership of the room, ordering her out so he could nap, which led to another playful struggle. Later, Mrs. Ma, now calling herself Yuanyuan, arrived at Boqing Hall to pay her reward for the divorce. She praised Lu Tingxiao, admiring his talent and appearance. Lu Tingxiao, leveraging her gratitude, suggested that Boqing Hall could help her find a new husband.
Wenren Jing's assistant excitedly pointed out that this opportunity could bring Wenren Jing closer to becoming a top-class matchmaker, but Wenren Jing initially refused, declaring she wouldn't "eat the food handed out in contempt" from Lu Tingxiao. However, driven by necessity, she later approached Lu Tingxiao, offering to "make him happy" in exchange for handling the new matchmaking cases from Yuanyuan’s relatives, which he eventually allowed.
Meanwhile, news that the new chairman of the Matchmaker Society would arrive the following noon spread, with Liu Zhan's allies hoping to "take the opportunity" and keep Boqing Hall in the dark. Despite Wenren Jing’s efforts, she continued to be under Lu Tingxiao’s thumb and was ultimately forced out of her own room once more.
Episode 4 Recap
Lu Tingxiao kept Wenren Jing busy with various chores, even dictating how she should close doors or water plants. Despite her resistance, he insisted that all her earnings from Boqing Hall must be handed over to him. Wenren Jing was frustrated, but felt helpless, determined to endure until she could achieve the title of a top-grade matchmaker.
Meanwhile, at Jufu Restaurant, Liu Zhan, plotting to ensure Boqing Hall missed the welcome banquet for the new Matchmaker Society chairman, sent a messenger to feign a lucrative business opportunity for Councilor Liu at Wuli Hill outside the city. The messenger told Wenren Jing, who, posing as the director, enthusiastically accepted, seeing a chance to keep the fee for herself. She later confided in Wenren Ling about the "new order" and her plan to hide the money from Lu Tingxiao.
During their conversation, Wenren Ling mentioned Lu Tingxiao always had his eyes on Wenren Jing, making it difficult for her. Liu Zhan boasted to other matchmakers that the "tumor" from Boqing Hall wouldn't make it to the welcome party, having arranged for her to go to Mystery Forest.
When others exclaimed that Mystery Forest was a dangerous, "human-eating" place where people go crazy and might die, Liu Zhan feigned surprise, claiming he only heard it was a remote and hard-to-find forest. This was all part of his scheme. Wenren Jing set off for Wuli Hill, but as she entered Mystery Forest, she inhaled too much miasma, causing her to hallucinate, seeing visions of her father and calling out for "Rong."
She collapsed, only to awaken later and find Lu Tingxiao had saved her. She thanked him, offering water as wine. They took shelter, with Wenren Jing lamenting the fog and lack of stars, making it impossible to navigate. Lu Tingxiao, to her surprise, mumbled that he hated stars. The two then established a clear boundary on the ground for sleeping, each fearing the other might take advantage.
As night fell and Wenren Jing remained absent, Wenren Ling grew worried and attempted to force her way out of the city gates despite the guards' warnings that trespassers would be killed. Liu Zhan, unexpectedly, intervened, pulling Wenren Ling away from the guards and pretending she had "something wrong with her brain" to save her. Wenren Ling confronted him for following her, but Liu Zhan dismissed it, stating that despite their rivalry, he wouldn't let her "die in vain."
Wenren Ling explained that her sister had gone out on an order and hadn't returned. Liu Zhan, however, cynically remarked that "that cunning tumor" would probably be fine. Later that night, Hong Zhong and his men burst into Liu Zhan’s residence, Yinshu Pavilion, violently assaulting his servant.
Liu Zhan initially hid, but when his servant bravely declared his loyalty and willingness to die for his young master, Liu Zhan stepped out, boldly identifying himself and mockingly inviting Hong Zhong to destroy his family. Just then, Wenren Ling arrived, recognizing Liu Zhan and declaring she was repaying his earlier kindness by stepping in to help. However, she was quickly overwhelmed by Hong Zhong’s men.
In a critical moment, Fang Xianxun appeared and swiftly drove away Hong Zhong and his thugs. Hong Zhong returned home, nursing his injuries and complaining to his father, Hong Yuanshan. Instead of sympathy, he was harshly reprimanded for his idle and unproductive behavior, which was ruining their family’s reputation and even implicating Mr. Wang Yizhi. Hong Yuanshan threatened to disinherit him if he didn’t settle down and marry.
Under pressure, Hong Zhong quickly promised to marry, claiming he had already fallen for Qu Liuyun, a gentle and virtuous girl from a humble family in the southern city. He even offered to marry her the very next day. While Hong Yuanshan agreed to send matchmakers to get Qu Liuyun's horoscope, he later secretly instructed a servant to call for Wanyi.
Episode 5 Recap
Hong Zhong aggressively forced his way into Yinshu Pavilion and, despite Liu Zhan's annoyance, demanded that Liu Zhan act as his matchmaker. Hong Zhong stated that if Liu Zhan successfully arranged his marriage to Qu Liuyun, the daughter of the Qu family living three miles south of the city, their previous grievances would be forgotten. He threatened to take over Yinshu Pavilion if Liu Zhan failed.
Meanwhile, Bai Jia, having been kicked out of a casino after losing all his money, spotted Yu Wanyi being taken away, bound and covered. He discreetly followed her captors, overhearing them mention that she was being taken to Chonglou, and that she would not be seeing her father again. Yu Wanyi's cries for help were quickly silenced.
Later, at the welcome banquet for the new chairman of the Pingyang Matchmaker Society, Liu Zhan was seen discussing serious matters and subtly criticizing Boqing Hall for their absence. Wenren Jing and Lu Tingxiao arrived just in time, with Wenren Jing chiding Liu Zhan for speaking ill of others.
An officer present spoke about the upcoming annual matchmaker party and the strict rules of the Matchmaker Society, noting that matchmakers with bad morals who conceal information for success would be disqualified. Suddenly, Fang Xianxun arrived, apologizing for his tardiness, and was then introduced as the new chairman of the Pingyang Matchmaker Society.
To everyone's surprise, Fang Xianxun and Lu Tingxiao, a top-class matchmaker from the capital, appeared to be old acquaintances, though Lu Tingxiao remained uncharacteristically silent, seemingly due to a "cold." Fang Xianxun explained that he and Lu Tingxiao were old friends who hadn't seen each other in a long time. After the banquet, Liu Zhan approached Fang Xianxun to offer him a matchmaking case as a gift, revealing it to be Hong Zhong's request.
Liu Zhan's subordinate privately worried about handing off such a difficult client, but Liu Zhan reasoned that he couldn't handle it himself and no one else would be fooled; only the new, unsuspecting chairman would take on the problematic task, and if he failed, it wouldn't reflect poorly on Liu Zhan. Fang Xianxun, however, immediately passed the case to Wenren Jing. Wenren Jing, eager to gain more cases to become a top-class matchmaker, readily accepted.
Wenren Jing and Fang Xianxun went to Baihua Brothel, a place where Liu Zhan claimed Hong Zhong frequented. Fang Xianxun was captivated by the courtesan of the West Kingdom, Qin Yiyi, but Wenren Jing remained focused on their mission. Soon, they witnessed Hong Zhong, the son of a prominent philanthropist, harassing Qin Yiyi, who was being pressured to perform a striptease despite her protests. The brothel staff refused to intervene due to Hong Zhong's father's influence.
Outraged by Hong Zhong's boorish behavior, Wenren Jing and Fang Xianxun intervened, easily fending off Hong Zhong's men. Afterward, Wenren Jing introduced herself to Qin Yiyi as a matchmaker who helps facilitate both marriages and divorces, particularly advocating for women's freedom and autonomy. Disgusted by Hong Zhong's character, Wenren Jing declared her intention to prevent the marriage, believing it to be a grave mistake.
She found it suspicious that a profligate like Hong Zhong would seek to marry a poor girl, so she and Fang Xianxun visited him. Hong Zhong, still groggy from the previous night, confirmed he needed to marry Qu Liuyun quickly to inherit his father's estate. Upon arriving at the Qu residence, they met a woman claiming to be Qu Liuyun.
She readily agreed to the marriage, explaining that her mother's illness had depleted their savings, and marrying into the wealthy Hong family was her only hope for her mother's treatment and a better life. However, Wenren Jing quickly noticed inconsistencies: the woman had calluses on her hands, typical of someone who practices swordsmanship, and she showed no emotional concern when her mother coughed. Furthermore, the dog leash at the house had been deliberately cut, suggesting no dog lived there.
Realizing the woman was an imposter, Wenren Jing and Fang Xianxun returned to the Qu residence, where they found a group of men in black holding the imposter captive, now revealed to be Lan Que. The men were threatening her, demanding she comply with the plan to marry Hong Zhong. They also had the real Qu Liuyun and her mother captive nearby, using them to coerce Lan Que.
Lan Que tried to negotiate for the captives' safety, only to be taunted about her past and her own mother selling her into Chonglou. Fang Xianxun created a diversion, allowing Wenren Jing to rescue the real Qu Liuyun, assuring her she was there to save her.
Episode 6 Recap
After interrogating Lan Que, who had impersonated Qu Liuyun, and learning that a masked man mentioned "Chonglou," Wenren Jing returned to Boqing Hall late at night. Lu Tingxiao questioned her whereabouts, but Fang Xianxun intervened on her behalf. The following day, Lu Tingxiao attempted to restrict Wenren Jing's movements, but she defiantly asserted her independence. Later, Wenren Jing spotted a man she suspected to be the leader of the men in black.
To verify her suspicion that he bore a specific tooth mark on his thigh—one she had previously witnessed Qu Liuyun inflict—she disguised herself and followed him into a men's bathhouse. Her attempts at discreet observation were unsuccessful, and she was quickly identified as a "female rogue" by the other patrons, who began to chase her. Fortunately, Fang Xianxun, who was also present, pulled her into a tub, allowing her to escape.
Wenren Jing questioned Fang Xianxun's presence and the numerous scars on his body, but he was more concerned with confirming the tooth mark, a detail he later instructed his subordinate to investigate, hinting at a significant personal discovery. Back at Boqing Hall, Wenren Jing asked Lu Tingxiao to teach her martial arts, but he dismissed her request. Suddenly, Fang Xianxun appeared, announcing his return and revealing himself to be the long-unseen landlord of Boqing Hall by presenting a property deed.
Wenren Jing expressed surprise but also delight at her disciple's identity, praising him for the spacious and affordable establishment. Lu Tingxiao challenged the authenticity of the deed, arguing that the property belonged to Boqing Hall until the lease expired. Fang Xianxun challenged the existence of a lease, and Lu Tingxiao admitted there was no formal contract, only a monthly rent agreement.
With both men asserting their claims, Wenren Jing intervened, proposing a fair competition "in a man's way" to decide who would control the hall. Wenren Jing, preferring a cultured contest over violence, suggested a drinking competition, believing it would reveal their true characters. Confident in Fang Xianxun's high tolerance and Lu Tingxiao's apparent lack of it, she assured Fang Xianxun of victory. Both men accepted the challenge, declaring they would not hold back.
Unbeknownst to them, Liu Zhan and Zheng Lin were secretly observing the scene from a distance with a telescope, eagerly anticipating the drama. As the competition progressed, Wenren Jing grew concerned about the vast quantities of wine being consumed. Eventually, Fang Xianxun succumbed to the alcohol and passed out. Lu Tingxiao, still conscious, then mocked Wenren Jing, asking if she now understood who was truly more formidable, implying her plan had failed.
After the drinking match, Wenren Jing found both men heavily intoxicated. Lu Tingxiao, in his drunken state, claimed to have a beloved and warned her not to touch him, which piqued Wenren Jing's curiosity. Fang Xianxun, equally drunk, boasted about his unmatched beauty and martial prowess, and both men then declared themselves "generals." Realizing their pronouncements were merely drunken ramblings, Wenren Jing got them to sleep.
When Lu Tingxiao complained about the cold, she moved closer to act as his blanket. Meanwhile, Liu Zhan and Zheng Lin continued to spy on Boqing Hall. Zheng Lin questioned if Liu Zhan was developing feelings for someone, which Liu Zhan vehemently denied, reminding himself that his priority was to restore his family's business. After Zheng Lin commented on his distraction, Liu Zhan began to contemplate using Wenren Jing for his schemes.
While tidying up the drunken men's clothes, Wenren Jing discovered a Yugou Token. She recognized it as belonging to an informant organization founded by her late father, whose current leader was Qin Zhao, also known as "Princess Xiangxiang," a master of martial arts and disguise. Wenren Jing deduced that either Lu Tingxiao or Fang Xianxun must be Qin Zhao or at least affiliated with the Yugou organization, recalling their drunken claims of being "generals."
Unable to determine from whom the token fell, she instructed her sister, A'ling, to secretly return to the capital to investigate a man named Yin Sishen. Wenren Jing then attempted to identify Qin Zhao. After confirming Fang Xianxun had no distinctive scent, she approached Lu Tingxiao and detected a subtle fragrance on him, which she associated with the "Princess Xiangxiang" nickname. Convinced he was Qin Zhao, she poked him until he woke.
When she asked if he was Lu Tingxiao, he denied it. Wenren Jing then confronted him with the Yugou Token, claiming it had fallen from his coat. He did not deny her accusation that he was Qin Zhao and, when asked about his purpose in Pingyang, confirmed he was on a secret mission that he could not disclose.
She bombarded him with questions, and in the process, connected Lan Que's disguise abilities to the Chonglou organization, realizing there might be a link between Yugou and Chonglou. When she pressed him about Lan Que, he feigned a headache to avoid answering. Believing Lu Tingxiao to be Qin Zhao, Wenren Jing took him to meet Lan Que.
She confronted Lan Que about the missing women and appealed to her compassionate side, referencing Lan Que's previous actions towards Qu Liuyun and her mother. Lan Que, confirming her affiliation with Chonglou, agreed to reveal what she knew if Wenren Jing could find a widow named Zhu Xiuchun in Pingyang and bring her to her. Lan Que then revealed that Qu Liuyun was in danger.
Acting quickly on the warning, Wenren Jing and the man she believed to be Qin Zhao immediately went to rescue Qu Liuyun. They successfully saved her, and in gratitude, Qu Liuyun handed over a package that Lan Que had left for her.
Episode 7 Recap
After a recent rescue, a woman who had been held captive was questioned about her ordeal. She recounted how her captors had spoken of her suitability as an actress and their intent to send her to a place called "Buletu," which was identified as a location in the North Kingdom. Despite her family having never left Pingyang, she denied any connection to the North Kingdom or acquaintance with Lan Que, the woman who had impersonated her.
Given the clear danger of assassins attempting to silence her, she was advised to leave immediately for her safety. Meanwhile, at the Boqing Hall, Director Liu Zhan was found talking to himself about his feelings for Miss Ling, declaring that despite past grievances, he would forgive Wenren Jing, but would not be deterred from pursuing Miss Ling.
Chairman Fang Xianxun arrived, explaining his presence as a long story and stating that he was the only one currently at the Boqing Hall. Liu Zhan, anxious about Miss Ling’s absence and safety, offered Fang Xianxun some cakes he had bought for her. Fang Xianxun discovered a ring hidden inside the cakes, realizing they were a gift for Miss Ling.
Liu Zhan then confessed his affections and pleaded with Fang Xianxun not to reveal his secret to anyone, especially Miss Ling, fearing it would ruin his reputation. When asked when he fell for Miss Ling, Liu Zhan described his feelings, explicitly contrasting her with Wenren Jing. Fang Xianxun, however, chastised him for disparaging Wenren Jing and refused to help, threatening to expose Liu Zhan’s gossiping nature to Miss Ling, which would further deter her. Liu Zhan, disheartened, then departed.
Separately, Mr. Wang, usually sweeping the east street, was seen helping out with chores, indicating the temporary absence of new staff. Later, as night fell, Wenren Jing and Lu Tingxiao realized it was too late to find a carriage back to the city, deciding instead to spend the night at a roadside inn. Lu Tingxiao requested two rooms, but the innkeeper explained that due to high demand, only one room was available.
Wenren Jing agreed to take the single room and ordered two bowls of noodles. Upon entering the room, they squabbled over who would get the bed. While they were eating, a strange vine-like object, identified as Lan Que’s earth vine, suddenly emerged and tightly bound their hands together, making it impossible to separate them. They argued over whose curiosity led to them touching the vine and getting entangled. Suddenly, black-clad assassins burst into their room.
With their hands bound, Lu Tingxiao’s fighting ability was significantly hampered. He urged Wenren Jing to escape, intending to cut off his own hand to ensure her safety. At this critical moment, Fang Xianxun arrived, mocking Lu Tingxiao's attempts at heroics and declaring he would protect both of them. During the intense fight, Lu Tingxiao sustained injuries. After a fierce struggle, the assassins were defeated; one bit into a hidden poison capsule, dying instantly.
The trio deduced that these were highly organized, ruthless outlaws, though their ultimate motive remained unknown. After the fight, Fang Xianxun tended to Lu Tingxiao’s wounds. Noticing the vine binding Lu Tingxiao and Wenren Jing, he attempted to untangle it, only to find himself also ensnared by the mysterious plant. Now all three were bound together.
Lu Tingxiao suggested the vine might be from the North Kingdom, connecting it to Lan Que and the men in black’s plan to send the rescued woman to "Buletu" in the North Kingdom. Fang Xianxun, exasperated by their bickering, urged them to unite, but Lu Tingxiao retorted that he and Wenren Jing were already united, implying Fang Xianxun was the outsider. With no immediate solution, they decided to try and rest until the city gates opened in the morning.
To pass the time, Wenren Jing proposed a game. They began playing a truth or dare game, primarily involving drinking. Lu Tingxiao chose to drink rather than reveal his most outrageous act. When it was Wenren Jing’s turn, Fang Xianxun asked Lu Tingxiao about a woman in a portrait, implying she was his love interest. Lu Tingxiao denied it, much to Wenren Jing’s amusement and feigned disgust.
Later, Wenren Jing questioned Lu Tingxiao about the numerous scars on his body, claiming to know because they were "close." Lu Tingxiao simply stated they were battle scars. As Wenren Jing continued to lose and drink more, she became increasingly inebriated. Both Fang Xianxun and Lu Tingxiao offered to drink on her behalf, eventually sharing a drink together in a show of "brotherhood."
The game continued, and when asked why they joined the Boqing Hall, both Lu Tingxiao and Fang Xianxun independently answered, "for her." Completely drunk, Wenren Jing began to refer to both men as "dear husband," declaring that all handsome men were her husbands. In her drunken stupor, she envisioned a fantastical three-person wedding, complete with bowing to heaven, parents, and each other, followed by imagined scenes of their daily life and even a shared bath, humorously accepting the "embarrassing" situation.
Episode 8 Recap
Wenren Jing, Lu Tingxiao, and Fang Xianxun remained tied by the earth vine. To find a way to untie themselves, they sought out Lan Que’s mother, Zhu Xiuchun, through Lord Song, hoping to get answers from Lan Que. Lord Song, initially reluctant to help and suggesting they report to the authorities, became cooperative after Lu Tingxiao subtly reminded him of his past actions, hinting at his involvement in forging identities.
Meanwhile, Wenren Jing, Fang Xianxun, and Lu Tingxiao, still bound together, complained about the inconvenience, even needing assistance for basic needs. Lord Song eventually returned with Zhu Xiuchun's household register, which tragically revealed that Lan Que’s mother had died by suicide. Confronted with this news, Lan Que, who had been promised her mother's safety by the North Kingdom if she remained loyal, was distraught.
She realized she had been manipulated and angrily threatened revenge against those who lied to her, then fled her cell without revealing how to untie the earth vine. As she fled, Lu Tingxiao pressed her to confirm that Chonglou is a North Kingdom spy organization. As the trio, still bound by the earth vine, returned to Boqing Hall, they were confronted by Liu Zhan and Zheng Lin.
The two rivals accused them of promiscuous behavior, mocking their bound state and declaring their intention to drag them through the streets to expose Boqing Hall's alleged depravity. However, just as Liu Zhan and Zheng Lin prepared to act, the earth vine mysteriously loosened its grip on Wenren Jing, Lu Tingxiao, and Fang Xianxun. Lu Tingxiao deduced that the "Twelve Earthly Branches" referred to the twelve two-hour periods of a day, meaning the vine automatically untied after 24 hours.
Seizing the opportunity, Wenren Jing then directed the freed earth vine to bind Liu Zhan and Zheng Lin instead. She then gleefully announced to the gathering crowd that the directors of Yinshu Pavilion and Tongxin Pavilion were "playing a new game," turning the tables on their accusers and making a spectacle of them as they were dragged away, blaming each other. Meanwhile, a separate storyline unfolded, revealing the plight of courtesans.
Qin Yiyi, a courtesan, was involved with a poor scholar, while another courtesan, Qingqing, seemed naive about the harsh realities of their profession. A wealthy patron, Mr. Hong, son of the influential Master Hong the Third, aggressively demanded Qin Yiyi. Despite being told she was already chosen by an officer, Mr. Hong persisted. When his fiancée's father, Master Wang, appeared and confronted him about his behavior, Mr. Hong redirected his attention to Qingqing, whom he found more "sensible."
Qingqing, believing she was going to a better life, left with him. This event paralleled another incident where a girl from Baihua Brothel, after being taken by Mr. Hong's family, was later found dead by the riverside, her neck snapped. This discovery was described by local gossipers to Wenren Jing and Fang Xianxun; while officials tried to suppress the information, details about the manner of death hinted at North Kingdom assassin tactics.
During this time, Yan Wu returned to Lu Tingxiao, reporting on intelligence he gathered. He spoke of the Governor of Linzhou being executed for colluding with the North Kingdom, and the mysterious disappearance of his concubine, who was later confirmed to be from Chonglou. Similarly, He Wansan, a wealthy man from the capital, faced exile, and his concubine also vanished, confirmed to be from Chonglou and skilled in martial arts.
Lu Tingxiao, finding Fang Xianxun's behavior suspicious, tasked Yan Wu with investigating him further. Later, Wenren Jing and Fang Xianxun, continuing their search for Lan Que, consulted local gossipers, who inadvertently led them to a hidden dwelling. Upon entering, they fell into a cleverly set water prison. The iron cage quickly filled with water, and Fang Xianxun revealed his leg was trapped, making escape impossible.
Knowing Wenren Jing couldn't swim, he selflessly declared his intention to hold her up, allowing her a chance to survive while he drowned. He confessed his feelings, saying that before meeting her, his solitary life was boring, and he wanted to leave a lasting impression on her heart so she would never forget him. Wenren Jing, distraught, tried desperately to free him, refusing his sacrifice.
In a critical moment, as Fang Xianxun began to lose consciousness, Yan Wu arrived just in time to rescue them. After their harrowing escape, Wenren Jing showered Fang Xianxun with excessive gratitude during a meal, constantly serving him food and doting on him, much to Lu Tingxiao's visible jealousy. The upcoming matchmaker party became another point of tension when Zheng Lin reported Wenren Jing to Governor Li, accusing her of having two husbands and engaging in promiscuous behavior.
Episode 9 Recap
The search for Lan Que continues, with reports indicating that she and her companion are currently missing. Meanwhile, Wenren Jing recovers from her recent ordeal, expressing concern for Fang Xianxun and acknowledging his bravery in saving her life. Her companion, Ling, teases her about developing feelings for Fang Xianxun. Lu Tingxiao later checks on Fang Xianxun, who downplays his heroic act, prompting Lu Tingxiao to emphasize that Wenren Jing's life is of utmost importance.
During a meal, both Lu Tingxiao and Fang Xianxun vie for Wenren Jing's attention, offering her favorite dishes, including the famous "Immortal chicken." This affectionate competition highlights the growing romantic tension. Still smarting from a previous humiliation, Zheng Lin plots his revenge. At the formal matchmaker meeting, attended by Officer Song and Governor Li, Zheng Lin publicly accuses Boqing Hall of "group licentiousness" and Wenren Jing of "serving two men," claiming this behavior is a disgrace to Pingyang.
To defuse the volatile situation, Wenren Jing feigns fainting. Lu Tingxiao seizes the opportunity to declare her his wife, boldly asserting that no one will defame his spouse. Fang Xianxun then steps in, claiming to be Wenren Jing's brother-in-law. Seeing Wenren Jing's "distress," Governor Li defers further discussion on the matter. Later that night, Liu Zhan and his companion, Liu Shan, are caught eavesdropping outside Lu Tingxiao and Wenren Jing's room.
Aware of their presence, Wenren Jing and Lu Tingxiao put on an elaborate show of marital affection. Wenren Jing playfully teases Lu Tingxiao, who reciprocates, escalating their performance into a staged struggle that dramatically breaks a chair. Fang Xianxun, overhearing parts of this exaggerated display, grows increasingly agitated and regrets not exposing them as a fake couple earlier. Still fuming with jealousy, Fang Xianxun secretly tracks down and beats up Zheng Lin, though it does little to quell his anger.
News then reaches Fang Xianxun of the tragic death of Vice-general Wang. Overcome with grief, Fang Xianxun discovers a unique half-badge on the body and vows to personally track down and kill the murderer to avenge his fallen comrade. Concurrently, the bruised Zheng Lin seeks out his sworn brother, Wang Yizhi, complaining about the "Tumor" (Wenren Jing and Boqing Hall) and warning that Wenren Jing's powerful, non-local companions might be a threat to Wang Yizhi himself.
Declaring that even his "dogs" cannot be bullied in Pingyang, Wang Yizhi promises to take preemptive action. Wenren Jing discusses the previous night's charade with Ling. Ling mistakenly expresses anger at Lu Tingxiao for not consummating their "marriage," interpreting his restraint as disrespect toward her sister, who is a princess. Wenren Jing, however, is merely irked by the fact that she was the one who was pushed down.
Amidst this, Wenren Jing receives an invitation from Qin Yiyi to meet at Baihua Brothel. Separately, Lu Tingxiao acts strangely while out with a young companion, leading the companion to notice his master's unusual behavior. Lu Tingxiao later learns that Wenren Jing went to Baihua Brothel alone. It is revealed that Qin Yiyi is acting under duress, threatened by Wang Yizhi with the life of her lover, Mr. Xue, after her own attempt to assassinate him failed.
While discussing the fatal effects of "love poison" with her captor, she stands near a memorial tablet for Lan Que. At Baihua Brothel, Qin Yiyi meets Wenren Jing, feigning a request for help to separate from her lover, Mr. Xue, and offering a "love token." During this encounter, Qin Yiyi secretly poisons Wenren Jing with the love poison. Soon after, Wang Yizhi's men ambush Wenren Jing.
Lu Tingxiao bravely shields her, taking a sword strike himself and convincingly feigning a severe injury. Believing his wounds to be real, Wenren Jing immediately begins to tend to him closely, showcasing her deep concern.
Episode 10 Recap
Fang Xianxun observed Wenren Jing's true affection for Lu Tingxiao and resolved to help them unite. After an incident where Lu Tingxiao shielded Wenren Jing from harm and feigned a serious injury, Wenren Jing diligently cared for him. During his recovery, Lu Tingxiao praised Wenren Jing's cooking, even as his servant pointed out that the injury was not severe and that he was enduring the bed rest for Wenren Jing's sake.
Lu Tingxiao also noticed Wenren Jing's scalded hand from cooking and tenderly treated it, later presenting her with flowers. Fang Xianxun, witnessing their growing intimacy, confessed his feelings to Wenren Jing. A misunderstanding led him to briefly believe she reciprocated, but he soon realized her heart truly belonged to Lu Tingxiao. Convinced she was simply unaware of her own feelings, Fang Xianxun challenged Lu Tingxiao to a confrontation.
Concerned for her apprentice, Wenren Jing urged Lu Tingxiao not to harm him. Lu Tingxiao later pressed Wenren Jing to acknowledge her true feelings, disregarding what others might say and emphasizing his trust only in her words. Although Wenren Jing initially denied liking Lu Tingxiao, citing his teasing nature despite his admirable qualities, she eventually understood her feelings, and the two solidified their relationship.
Lu Tingxiao expressed his heartfelt wish for Wenren Jing to live a life of peace and joy. Meanwhile, Wenren Jing, Fang Xianxun, and Lu Tingxiao began searching for the missing Qin Yiyi, who had been uncontactable for several days. Their search led them to Baihua Brothel, where they were informed that Qin Yiyi was no longer there. Upon investigating further, they encountered Wang Yizhi, the proprietor of Baihua Brothel, along with Hong Zhong.
During their conversation, Wang Yizhi cunningly insinuated that Chonglou, an organization of interest to Wenren Jing and Fang Xianxun, was established by Hong Yuanshan, Hong Zhong's father. Following this, Fang Xianxun confronted Hong Zhong, discovering a half-waist badge bearing the "Hong" character, which confirmed his suspicions about the Hong family's connection to Vice-general Wang's death. Separately, Lu Tingxiao rescued Hong Yuanshan from an ambush, introducing himself as being from Boqing Hall.
This rescue raised suspicions with Feng Shu, who questioned Lu Tingxiao's opportune appearance, leading to some friction within Fang Xianxun's group. Hong Yuanshan, conversing with his subordinate Zhang Jiu, expressed concern over Wang Yizhi's actions, especially since the recently murdered "Wang servant" was revealed to be a North Kingdom Vice-general.
Fearing that Chonglou was in jeopardy and unwilling to be controlled by Master Wang, Hong Yuanshan ordered Zhang Jiu to expedite the transfer of women, who had been poisoned with a love poison by Wang Yizhi, out of the city. Hoping to enlist Lu Tingxiao's aid, Hong Yuanshan invited him to his mansion for a discussion. Lu Tingxiao arrived at Hong Yuanshan's mansion, accompanied by Fang Xianxun and Wenren Jing.
Hong Yuanshan warmly welcomed them, particularly thanking Lu Tingxiao for saving his life and acknowledging his martial prowess, which Lu Tingxiao downplayed, attributing it to ancestral practice rather than his chosen profession as a matchmaker. Lu Tingxiao then inquired about the recent disappearances of young girls, but Hong Yuanshan claimed no knowledge. During the meeting, Fang Xianxun, feigning a stomachache, excused himself to follow Zhang Jiu.
Later, Zhang Jiu reported to Hong Yuanshan that "Young Master" (referring to Wang Yizhi) had not yet been found. Impatient, Hong Yuanshan reiterated his command to swiftly transfer the women out of the city that very night. Meanwhile, one of the captive women, likely Qin Yiyi, cleverly feigned illness to secure an opportunity to escape, offering a jade piece to her captors. As midnight approached, Zhang Jiu oversaw the women being given a substance before they were confined in cloth boxes and prepared for transport out of the city.
Episode 11 Recap
Lu Tingxiao's men identified that women would be covertly transported out of the city at midnight. They intercepted a convoy where guards claimed to be urgently transporting brocade for the palace, presenting a pass document. Lu Tingxiao ordered them to open the boxes, revealing a captured individual who confessed that Hong Yuanshan had orchestrated everything. Lu Tingxiao forced the person to swallow something before arresting him. Lu Tingxiao also found his cousin, Wanyi, among the abducted women.
She was traumatized and clung to him, distressed and crying not to be killed. Lu Tingxiao reassured her, and his subordinate, Yan Wu, saw to her care after a doctor confirmed she was mostly fine and just needed rest. Lu Tingxiao suspected these women were intended to be trained as assassins for the North Kingdom. He instructed Yan Wu to escort Wanyi back to the capital, while he continued his investigation.
Meanwhile, Fang Xianxun achieved his goal, killing Zhang Jiu to avenge Vice-general Wang. Wenren Jing, having observed Lu Tingxiao comforting Wanyi, initially tried to be understanding. Lu Tingxiao clarified that Wanyi was his cousin, whom his uncle had entrusted him to find, and assured Wenren Jing he held no romantic feelings for her, arranging for Yan Wu to send Wanyi back to the capital. He explained that his heart was truly with Wenren Jing.
While Wenren Jing was applying medicine to Lu Tingxiao's wounds, he noticed her hands were cold. She then confessed that her true name was not Wenren Jing, but Ye Rong'er, a princess of Lord Lian, who had fled an imperial marriage to open a matchmaker hall in Pingyang and pursue her own divorce case. She asked if Lu Tingxiao would mind her past marriage, promising to leave him alone if he did.
Lu Tingxiao stated he didn't mind, and she, in turn, promised never to hide anything from him again. Lu Tingxiao vowed his honesty and his exclusive trust in her. As Lu Tingxiao attempted to reveal his own true identity, Wenren Jing suddenly fainted. Wanyi recognized Wenren Jing's symptoms, identifying them as the "love poison," which she herself had been afflicted with at the Baihua Brothel.
She explained that the poison deepens with emotional arousal, causing coldness, paleness, frosted eyebrows, frequent fainting, and eventually death by freezing. Ling, Wenren Jing's attendant, confirmed Wenren Jing was in critical condition. Wanyi also revealed the Hong family's connection to this poison. After learning of Wenren Jing's predicament, Lu Tingxiao tasked Ling with caring for her and vowed to seek revenge on Hong Yuanshan. Hong Yuanshan, however, had disappeared.
Ling advised Lu Tingxiao that any emotional contact would worsen Wenren Jing's condition, making it critical for him to avoid her until an antidote was found. Faced with this grim reality, Lu Tingxiao decided to leave Boqing Hall to search for a cure. He sought out Fang Xianxun for a private conversation, acknowledging his absence would buy him more time to search for an antidote.
Lu Tingxiao disclosed that Qin Yiyi was from the West Kingdom and that he had dispatched people to scour exit records across all cities to find her. Fang Xianxun, in turn, announced his intention to infiltrate the Baihua Brothel to investigate Wang Yizhi. Lu Tingxiao then questioned Fang Xianxun's trustworthiness, presenting the Yugou Token that Wenren Jing had found among their clothes.
Fang Xianxun admitted it was his but pointed out that Lu Tingxiao also possessed tokens that could mobilize guards, yet he had never demanded an explanation. Lu Tingxiao accepted this, stating he would trust Fang Xianxun. He added a solemn warning that if any harm came to Wenren Jing, he would hold Fang Xianxun accountable. Fang Xianxun countered that if anything happened to his master (Wenren Jing), he would prepare a coffin for Lu Tingxiao.
Lu Tingxiao then entrusted Wenren Jing's care to Fang Xianxun, remarking on Fang Xianxun's seemingly righteous nature despite his pretense of being a villain. Lu Tingxiao journeyed to find the renowned physician Yue Liweng. Yue Liweng, having mentioned the deaths of Qin Yiyi and a scholar, asked if Lu Tingxiao sought a cure for the love poison.
Lu Tingxiao confirmed, expressing his resolve that even if he could not be with Wenren Jing, he would not abandon her to the poison's torment. Yue Liweng agreed to help, but only on the condition that Lu Tingxiao would test poisons for him. Lu Tingxiao accepted, stating he would die without regret if it meant saving Wenren Jing.
Meanwhile, Feng killed Hong Yuanshan and his son, later reporting to Fang Xianxun—who was disguised as General Lin Xie of the North Kingdom—that he had done so without proper interrogation or permission. Fang Xianxun, as Lin Xie, expressed displeasure at Feng's rash actions, further deepening the rift between them.
Wang Yizhi, having learned of Hong Yuanshan's capture, ordered him to be silenced to prevent the exposure of Chonglou's secret network of female assassins, fearing repercussions from both North and South Kingdoms. He also suspected that General Lin Xie's presence signaled a direct threat. Later, Fang Xianxun confronted Wang Yizhi at the Baihua Brothel, still in his disguise as General Lin Xie.
After compelling Wang Yizhi by having one of his associates brought in unconscious, the disguised Fang Xianxun pressed him. Wang Yizhi claimed loyalty to the North Kingdom, but Fang Xianxun accused him of using "flower tea"—the love poison—to control Chonglou's assassins and demanded to know if Wenren Jing had also been poisoned. Wang Yizhi confirmed she had. Seeking to clear Chonglou's name from suspicion of treason, Wang Yizhi offered a substantial reward for Lin Xie's assistance.
Fang Xianxun then demanded the antidote, insisting it be delivered within five days. Panicked, Wang Yizhi ordered his organization to prepare for evacuation, realizing that the general—also known as General Wuchang—would surely kill him upon discovering there was no antidote. Back at Boqing Hall, Wenren Jing, noticing her eyebrows were turning white, realized Lu Tingxiao was gone. She grew increasingly anxious, thinking that with his skills, he wouldn't have had an accident and must have "run away."
Ling and Wanyi discussed what to tell her. To prevent Wenren Jing from going to search for him, Wanyi lied, claiming that Lu Tingxiao had returned to the capital to marry her. Wenren Jing, however, suspected something was wrong and directly asked if Lu Tingxiao had met with an accident. Ling offered to go inquire about him, while Wanyi pondered if removing Wenren Jing from their current location could free her from the love poison's grasp.
Episode 12 Recap
Yue Liweng, the miracle doctor, observed a resilient individual, remarking that they had survived eight types of poison and were remarkably lucky. After seeing the person—Lu Tingxiao—finally succumb to another poison test, he mused about the difficulty others faced in surviving it. Moved by Lu Tingxiao's sacrifice, he finally promised to descend the mountain and go to Boqing Hall to save Wenren Jing.
Believing something had happened to Lu Tingxiao, Wenren Jing declared her intention to find him, frustrated that no one would tell her his whereabouts. Wen Renling tried to dissuade her, but Yu Wanyi interjected, cruelly asserting that Lu Tingxiao didn't want to see Wenren Jing because he was returning to the capital with her to get married, citing a childhood engagement. Wenren Jing vehemently rejected this, demanding Lu Tingxiao tell her himself.
Yu Wanyi sneered that men grew tired of women and urged Wenren Jing to stop pestering him. Wen Renling again offered to find Lu Tingxiao, but Wenren Jing insisted she would only believe it if Lu Tingxiao told her in person. Fed up, Wen Renling sternly told Yu Wanyi she was not welcome at Boqing Hall and ordered her to be escorted out. Later, while out on the street, Wenren Jing encountered Yue Liweng commenting cynically on a wedding procession.
Despite his odd behavior, she offered him money for food and invited him to Boqing Hall for a meal if he was ever hungry, an offer he promised to accept. Meanwhile, Fang Xianxun, impatient for the antidote that Wang Yizhi had not delivered on time, confronted him. He warned Wang Yizhi not to plot any schemes and demanded the antidote immediately, threatening severe consequences. Wang Yizhi, however, requested three days, daring Fang Xianxun to kill him if he disbelieved him.
Fang Xianxun accepted the timeframe and had Wang Yizhi taken away. He then instructed Wang Yizhi's subordinate, Wang Zhen, to bring the antidote within three days to exchange for his master, cautioning Wang Yizhi not to test his patience further. Yue Liweng arrived at Boqing Hall and immediately began to complain about the food, acting rudely and demanding more. His obnoxious behavior annoyed everyone.
As he angrily prepared to leave, he revealed that he was there only because Lu Tingxiao had risked his life to persuade him. Recognizing his importance, Fang Xianxun questioned if he could detoxify the love poison, to which Yue Liweng eventually admitted he could. Fang Xianxun then brought Yue Liweng to Wenren Jing, who had been feeling increasingly cold.
After examining her, Yue Liweng confirmed that Wenren Jing was indeed afflicted by the love poison, which had already permeated her organs. He explained that there was no conventional antidote, but he could offer a temporary solution with rare materials. He listed the required ingredients: a ten-thousand-year ginseng and the Heartless Herb, a legendary plant from the perilous Western Poison Forest, known for being virtually impossible to retrieve due to its deadly inhabitants.
When pressed for alternative solutions, Yue Liweng only demanded food and wine, suggesting it might help him remember other methods. During the commotion, a subordinate of Wang Yizhi frantically inquired about his Young Master's whereabouts. Yue Liweng, in a mischievous tone, claimed Wang Yizhi was dead from poison, provoking an angry response. Fang Xianxun, overhearing this, expressed his frustration, realizing Wang Yizhi had once again lied to him.
Attempting to impress Wen Renling, Liu Zhan offered her a rose and had his dislocated shoulder skillfully reset by her. Concerned for her sister, Wen Renling asked Liu Zhan if he knew where to find a ten-thousand-year ginseng. Liu Zhan then invited Zheng Lin, who was rumored to possess such an item, to discuss its purchase. Zheng Lin boastfully confirmed he owned a ten-thousand-year ginseng, claiming it was unique in the world.
When Wen Renling appeared and urgently requested to buy it, Zheng Lin maliciously speculated that it was for Wenren Jing, implying she had an incurable disease. He then flatly refused to sell it, stating that Wenren Jing's death would be a "win-win situation."
Liu Zhan tried to persuade Zheng Lin to be less heartless, but Zheng Lin twisted his words, suggesting Liu Zhan was merely attempting to curry favor with Wen Renling in hopes of taking over Boqing Hall after Wenren Jing's demise. Despite Liu Zhan's hurried denials and assurances of his genuine desire to help, Wen Renling, hurt and misguided by Zheng Lin's accusations, thanked Liu Zhan curtly and departed.
Observing Wenren Jing's persistent gloom, Fang Xianxun suggested they attend the lantern festival that evening, hoping to lift her spirits. At the festival, he tried to encourage her to enjoy the festive lights, but Wenren Jing remained despondent. Later, Lu Tingxiao, wearing a mask, took Fang Xianxun's place to accompany Wenren Jing. Speaking to the masked figure, Wenren Jing reflected on Lu Tingxiao's sudden disappearance, bitterly concluding that he must be an ungrateful and heartless man.
She then directly addressed the masked person as "Director Lu," signaling that she had seen through his disguise. Lu Tingxiao, now revealed, simply uttered a quiet "Thank you." Back at Boqing Hall, Lu Tingxiao confronted Fang Xianxun about his treatment of Wenren Jing in his absence, but Fang Xianxun retorted that Lu Tingxiao was the one who left without a word. Wen Renling, distressed, informed Lu Tingxiao that the miracle doctor, Yue Liweng, had used him to test poisons.
Lu Tingxiao worried if his presence would exacerbate Wenren Jing's condition, even considering wearing a mask. Fang Xianxun, still hostile, offered to simply kill Lu Tingxiao as a "solution." Wen Renling urged them to return to Wenren Jing, but Lu Tingxiao insisted that Fang Xianxun, as his accomplice in the deception, should also face her. Wenren Jing, still furious, confronted Lu Tingxiao for his disappearance and for lying to her.
She suspected that he was hiding something about an incurable disease she might have. Taking her outside, Lu Tingxiao listened patiently. Wenren Jing, though angry, asked him to promise never to leave her again, to which he readily agreed. As they spent time together grilling fish, Wenren Jing confessed her fear that life was too short and things would be left unsaid or undone.
Lu Tingxiao, realizing she was unaware of the full severity of her illness, apologized for making her worry. Wenren Jing then implored him to be honest with her about any future difficulties, as she would never abandon him, and he reaffirmed his commitment to face everything with her. He showed her a secret wish list she had written, detailing activities they wanted to do together, such as eating osmanthus cakes, flying kites, and kissing.
Lu Tingxiao promised to fulfill every item on the list with her. Soon after, Wen Renling received the much-needed ten-thousand-year ginseng, seemingly a result of Liu Zhan's efforts. Lu Tingxiao and Wenren Jing began to cross items off their wish list, starting with flying kites. While kite flying, Wenren Jing, overcome with emotion, asked Lu Tingxiao to marry her. He happily accepted, stating he had awaited this day for a long time.
He presented her with simple wild flowers, symbolizing his heartfelt proposal. Wenren Jing, touched, accepted, playfully warning him that she would divorce him if he ever treated her poorly. Lu Tingxiao playfully vowed never to give her that chance, declaring his love for his "dear wife" and reminding her of the many adventures still awaiting them on their wish list.
Episode 13 Recap
Lu Tingxiao and Wenren Jing embarked on fulfilling her wish list together. Doctor Yue assured Wenren Jing that Lu Tingxiao was fine, but suggested she could gather wild ginseng from the back mountain to help him recover if she was concerned. Wenren Jing considered this a good idea. Meanwhile, Fang Xianxun, addressing Chief Feng, revealed his serious injuries. He confronted Chief Feng, who then read aloud an order to "kill Yin Sishen of Boqing Hall right away."
Fang Xianxun questioned if Chief Feng had sent the pigeon with this message. Chief Feng warned Fang Xianxun that the new emperor had dispatched a supervisor, expected to arrive within ten days, and if Fang Xianxun failed to eliminate Yin Sishen, he would face death. Fang Xianxun, in response, decided to delegate the task of eliminating Yin Sishen to his subordinates and dismissed Chief Feng.
Wang Yizhi was informed by a spy that General Yin Sishen had sealed all city gates, forbidding anyone to leave without a General Command. The spy also mentioned that General Yin seemed to have an "unclear relationship" with Wenren Jing of Boqing Hall. Upon hearing this, Wang Yizhi instructed Wang Zhen to find a way to bring Wenren Jing back to him. Elsewhere, Lu Tingxiao wondered about Wenren Jing's whereabouts.
He was told she had gone to the mountain to gather wild ginseng for him, prompting him to express concern about her going out alone given her condition. Wenren Jing was then shown searching for ginseng when a warrior, Wang Zhen, confronted her. He offered to spare her if she cooperated and went with him. Just as Wang Zhen was about to force her, Lu Tingxiao arrived and ordered him to stop.
Wang Zhen demanded that Lu Tingxiao cut off his meridians, threatening Wenren Jing's life if he refused. Wenren Jing pleaded with Lu Tingxiao not to, arguing that both their lives would be in peril. As Wang Zhen counted down, Lu Tingxiao rescued Wenren Jing, and they both fell from the cliff. At the bottom of the cliff, Wenren Jing frantically tried to wake an unconscious Lu Tingxiao, lamenting all the things they hadn't said or done together.
Lu Tingxiao soon awoke, revealing he had only been pretending after she gave him mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, jokingly wishing she had continued. Wenren Jing, upset by his deception, accused him of toying with her. Lu Tingxiao confessed that he had fallen in love with her at first sight and came all the way to Pingyang to pursue her, vowing to protect her and stay by her side forever.
Wenren Jing then asked if she had an incurable illness due to a persistent cold sensation. Lu Tingxiao disclosed that she was suffering from a potent love poison that was difficult to cure. He reassured her that he had brought Doctor Yue Liweng to treat her and promised to find a cure. Wenren Jing, relieved it was her and not him who was afflicted, expressed how difficult the recent times had been worrying about him.
Soon after, Fang Xianxun, carrying a General Command and impersonating General Yin, arrived at the county government to request troops from the magistrate of Pingyang. He then confronted Lu Tingxiao and Wenren Jing. Wenren Jing tried to take sole responsibility for running away from her marriage, pleading with Fang Xianxun not to harm Lu Tingxiao, who she insisted was unaware of anything.
She declared that Lu Tingxiao was the man she wanted to spend her life with and would not allow Fang Xianxun to hurt him. Fang Xianxun, however, urged them to leave quickly, stating they could discuss other matters later. Back at Boqing Hall, Wenren Jing was unconscious. Someone, presumably Ling, mentioned that Wenren Jing already knew about the love poison and must be greatly shocked.
Wenren Jing later woke up, disoriented, mistaking Lu Tingxiao for a young warrior she had met in the capital and asking his name and master. She also mistakenly identified him as a top entertainer from the Jiaofang department. Lu Tingxiao realized she had lost all recent memories, as she inquired how long they had been in Pingyang.
Ling explained that Wenren Jing mentioned needing to retrieve a seal from Matchmaker Song, an event that happened when they first arrived in Pingyang, indicating her memory loss covered all recent occurrences. They pondered whether amnesia caused by the love poison could inhibit its effects. Subsequently, Lu Tingxiao decided he must depart to find the Heartless Herb. He felt there was no need to bid farewell to Wenren Jing, as she only remembered him as a musician from Jiaofang.
Wenren Jing, still confused, went out to buy birthday peaches, seemingly unaware it was her birthday. She invited Lu Tingxiao to stay longer in Pingyang so she could show him around. At her impromptu birthday celebration, Lu Tingxiao inwardly apologized for having to break his promise and leave. Fang Xianxun then urgently confronted Lu Tingxiao, insisting he leave immediately, as his presence was detrimental to Wenren Jing.
Lu Tingxiao asked if he couldn't even stay for the time it took to eat a peach, to which Fang Xianxun retorted that a peach was insignificant compared to her life. Sensing something was amiss, Lu Tingxiao pressed Fang Xianxun for what he knew. Fang Xianxun then revealed that Wenren Jing had never truly lost her memory; she had feigned amnesia out of fear that Lu Tingxiao would abandon her. He vehemently urged Lu Tingxiao to leave for her safety.
Wenren Jing tearfully confessed to Ling and others that she had pretended to lose her memory because she was afraid Lu Tingxiao would leave. Lu Tingxiao, realizing her deception, expressed his anger at himself for not noticing sooner, and Wenren Jing pleaded with him not to depart. Later, Wenren Jing experienced another episode of intense cold, signaling the love poison's progression. Lu Tingxiao's subordinate reported that someone had ridden west out of the city, possibly Fang Xianxun.
Lu Tingxiao acknowledged he had given Fang Xianxun the General Command. He decided to wait for news from Fang Xianxun, emphasizing that Wenren Jing needed someone to care for her. Doctor Yue then informed Lu Tingxiao that Wenren Jing's condition had worsened due to recent emotional distress, and she likely only had two or three days left. Lu Tingxiao desperately asked if there was any alternative to the Heartless Herb.
Doctor Yue confirmed there was another method, but it required Lu Tingxiao himself to serve as the efficacy-enhancing ingredient. Someone present immediately objected, recalling Doctor Yue's previous attempt to trick Lu Tingxiao into testing a dangerous medicine. Doctor Yue, dismissing their concerns, asserted his age-induced forgetfulness and challenged them to believe him or not.
Episode 14 Recap
Doctor Yue explained to Lu Tingxiao about a potent concoction known as Soul-restoring Powder, which possessed the ability to transfer the effects of the love poison from one person to a willing lover. This would allow the willing person to endure the suffering on behalf of their beloved. Lu Tingxiao, without hesitation, agreed to undergo the procedure, even after Doctor Yue warned him that his already weakened constitution would render his situation far more perilous than Wenren Jing's.
He sought reassurance that Wenren Jing would be completely safe if the love poison was fully transferred, which Doctor Yue confirmed. Before the process began, Lu Tingxiao implored Doctor Yue not to reveal any of this to Wenren Jing, expressing his desire to share a few more happy days with her.
He reflected on his past fear of true happiness, particularly on his wedding day, and realized that all he wished for was Wenren Jing to live a joyful life, a wish he was willing to fulfill even if it cost him his own. He stated his unwavering resolve, hoping for her peace and happiness. Meanwhile, Wang Yizhi was growing increasingly agitated. Yin Sishen’s city-wide lockdown remained in effect, and he was furious that Wenren Jing was still alive.
His subordinate reported that Yin Sishen had sustained severe injuries and had not yet recovered. Wang Yizhi saw this vulnerability as his final opportunity to strike. After Lu Tingxiao underwent the painful procedure, he was left in a critical state. Wenren Jing regained consciousness and found Lu Tingxiao gravely ill. She frantically called for help. Wen Renling revealed to her that Lu Tingxiao had willingly taken the love poison into his own body to save her.
Distraught, Wenren Jing cried out that she would rather have died herself than have him make such a sacrifice. Lu Tingxiao eventually stirred, reassuring her that he was not so easily defeated. He asked Doctor Yue to confirm that Wenren Jing’s poison had been completely cleared, which the proud doctor affirmed. Wenren Jing expressed her deep anguish upon learning the full extent of his dangerous sacrifice, but Lu Tingxiao gently reminded her that he had acted willingly.
He claimed her intense worry only proved the correctness of his decision, as his only desire was for her to live happily. In a separate incident, Wen Renling confronted Zheng Lin as he began removing the plaque from Yinshu Pavilion. Zheng Lin callously explained that Liu Zhan, in his profound affection for Wen Renling, had traded his ancestral property, Yinshu Pavilion, for Zheng Lin's invaluable 10,000-year ginseng to give to her.
Enraged by this revelation, Wen Renling attempted to stop the demolition by threatening Zheng Lin with her sword, but he dismissed her, threatening to report her actions to the authorities. Lu Tingxiao and Wenren Jing enjoyed a fleeting moment of peace, admiring flowers together. Lu Tingxiao complimented Wenren Jing's beauty, although their joy was briefly interrupted by unkind comments from passersby about Wenren Jing's appearance, claiming she was not worthy of him.
Wenren Jing playfully asked Lu Tingxiao to place a flower in her hair, which he shyly did. She then added buying osmanthus cakes to their list of activities and sent Lu Tingxiao to fetch them, promising to wait for him. Soon after Lu Tingxiao left, Wenren Jing was seized, and word quickly reached him that something terrible had befallen her. Lu Tingxiao rushed to find Wenren Jing held captive by Wang Yizhi.
Wang Yizhi, addressing Lu Tingxiao by his true title, General Yin, cruelly revealed Lu Tingxiao's identity to Wenren Jing’s associates. He mocked their relationship, claiming Lu Tingxiao already had a wife in the capital and that his affections for Wenren Jing were nothing more than an act.
Wenren Jing bravely attempted to reason with Wang Yizhi, pointing out his precarious position with both the North and South Kingdoms seeking him and urging him to release them to gain General Yin’s mercy. Ignoring her pleas, Wang Yizhi prepared to harm Wenren Jing. As Lu Tingxiao cried out for her release, the love poison within him flared up violently.
Wenren Jing angrily demanded an explanation from Doctor Yue as to why Lu Tingxiao was also poisoned, but Lu Tingxiao silenced her, reiterating his desperate wish for her to live. Seizing upon Lu Tingxiao's weakened state, Wang Yizhi demanded the General's Command. Just as Wang Yizhi was about to strike, Fang Xianxun made a dramatic entrance, throwing a sword to Lu Tingxiao and announcing his arrival to help.
Lu Tingxiao and Fang Xianxun engaged Wang Yizhi and his forces in a fierce battle. Wang Yizhi’s subordinate, Wang Zhen, attempted to reinforce their side, but Fang Xianxun’s accompanying troops quickly surrounded and neutralized them. During the chaotic fight, one of Wang Yizhi's men was questioned about a list of others and revealed the ominous phrase, "Once you enter Chonglou, you will fight until death," implying a dark connection to Boqing Hall.
Following the intense battle, Lu Tingxiao's condition rapidly deteriorated. Doctor Yue examined him, confirming that Lu Tingxiao had indeed ventured into the perilous Poison Forest to obtain the Heartless Herb. He grimly explained that Lu Tingxiao's earlier use of true energy during the fight with Wang Yizhi had severely exacerbated his already critical state from the transferred love poison. He stated that Lu Tingxiao's recovery now depended entirely on his own vitality, with uncertain chances of surviving the day.
Desperate, Wenren Jing pleaded with Doctor Yue to save Lu Tingxiao, even offering to become a human "medicine ingredient," but Doctor Yue dismissed these as futile. Wenren Jing then learned that Lu Tingxiao had specifically begged Doctor Yue to transfer the love poison to himself. Witnessing Lu Tingxiao's severe blood loss, Doctor Yue suggested a blood transfusion from Wenren Jing to him, explaining that their blood was mixed during the initial poison transfer.
Despite her own weakened state, Wenren Jing immediately agreed, affirming that her life belonged to Lu Tingxiao and she must save him. Using lamb intestine and bamboo needles, Doctor Yue carefully facilitated the transfer of Wenren Jing's blood into Lu Tingxiao, as Wen Renling watched anxiously, fearing for her sister's health. After a tense period of recovery, both Lu Tingxiao and Fang Xianxun eventually awakened. However, their reunion was far from harmonious.
Fang Xianxun immediately began to taunt Lu Tingxiao about his current predicament, mocking his weakened state. This quickly escalated into a heated exchange where they bickered and insulted each other’s injuries and combat prowess. Wen Renling intervened to stop their squabble, urging Doctor Yue to check their conditions. The exasperated Doctor Yue complied, demanding their hands for examination.
Episode 15 Recap
Lu Tingxiao and Fang Xianxun were still recuperating from their recent ordeal, though they continued to bicker. Doctor Yue confirmed that most of the toxins had been cleared from their bodies, but due to damage to their meridians, they would require several more days of rest despite their strong constitutions.
Wenren Jing explained that Doctor Yue had transferred the love poison from Lu Tingxiao to Fang Xianxun, who was only saved by the Heartless Herb he himself had previously risked his life to retrieve from the West Kingdom's Poison Forest. Fang Xianxun, disgruntled, expressed his annoyance at having gone through so much only to save Lu Tingxiao. The two men further teased each other about their injuries and recovery process, causing a touch of embarrassment for Wenren Jing.
Meanwhile, a young master, accompanied by his servant, admired an umbrella. The servant suggested that after the young master’s significant sacrifices, a woman referred to as Miss Ling would surely be moved to marry him. Soon after, the young master, who was Director Liu, met Miss Ling. She thanked him for his assistance, offering to repay his great kindness by either marrying him or helping him reclaim his Yinshu Pavilion. Director Liu became visibly flustered, denying the need for marriage.
His servant continued to tease him, questioning his courage, which only caused Director Liu to become more agitated. Later, Wenren Jing attended to Lu Tingxiao, feeding him bitter medicine. Fang Xianxun playfully joined in, feigning a desire for the medicine, before Doctor Yue led him away to change his dressing. Lu Tingxiao then confided in Wenren Jing, sharing a heartfelt wish for a simple life where they and Fang Xianxun could all be matchmakers, free from conflict.
He then revealed that the Yugou Token Wenren Jing found belonged to Fang Xianxun, exposing Fang Xianxun as Lin Xie, General Wuchang of the North Kingdom. Lu Tingxiao explained that as the Nation-protecting General of the South Kingdom, he had to consider the worst possibilities, including the risk of Lin Xie being a spy. While he hoped Lin Xie was trustworthy, he vowed not to tolerate any betrayal.
Lu Tingxiao soon sensed he was being followed and confronted Qin Zhao, who had been impersonating an official named Song Zhisu. Qin Zhao confirmed her cover was blown and revealed her true purpose: she was sent by the Emperor with an imperial edict for Yin Sishen (Lu Tingxiao's real identity) to assist in capturing Lin Xie. Qin Zhao insinuated that Lu Tingxiao was too close to Lin Xie.
Lu Tingxiao vehemently denied this, reminding her that his father-in-law had died fighting the North Kingdom. He accepted the imperial edict, declaring that his pursuit of Lin Xie was purely for revenge and not to aid Qin Zhao, whom he accused of opportunism. Qin Zhao's subordinate questioned the necessity of Lu Tingxiao's involvement, to which Qin Zhao cunningly replied that it was better to let Lu Tingxiao and Lin Xie fight each other.
That evening, everyone—Lu Tingxiao, Wenren Jing, Fang Xianxun, Doctor Yue, and Miss Ling—gathered to drink and make wishes under the shooting stars. Fang Xianxun and Lu Tingxiao went to fetch more Immortal Drunk. Unbeknownst to the others, North Kingdom agents were preparing to assassinate Lu Tingxiao. During the ensuing festivities, Fang Xianxun seized an opportunity to slip away and enter Lu Tingxiao's room. Lu Tingxiao, who had anticipated this, confronted him.
Fang Xianxun admitted he was ordered by his king to kill Lu Tingxiao. Wenren Jing then confronted Fang Xianxun, expressing her deep disappointment and sense of betrayal, especially after he had risked his life to obtain the Heartless Herb for her. Fang Xianxun, now fully embracing his identity as Lin Xie, coldly confessed that he had killed Lord Lian, Wenren Jing's father, years ago.
He revealed his true intention was to exploit Wenren Jing's affection to infiltrate the South Kingdom for intelligence, a plan that was disrupted by Lu Tingxiao's presence. Devastated by this confession, Wenren Jing, in a fit of rage and grief, stabbed Fang Xianxun, causing him to plummet from a cliff. Qin Zhao's subordinate, believing Fang Xianxun was dead, reported the situation to her. Qin Zhao ordered them to go back and report.
However, it was revealed that Fang Xianxun had faked his death using a special soft sword and a hidden blood pack, a clever ruse advised by Doctor Yue. He successfully stole the Deployment map of the South Kingdom's frontiers. Fang Xianxun, now Lin Xie, reported to his North Kingdom subordinates, acknowledging his failure to kill Lu Tingxiao but highlighting the acquisition of the more critical map. He was then ordered to return to the North Kingdom.
Later, Wenren Jing found an item Fang Xianxun had discarded near the cliff, holding onto hope that he was still alive. Lu Tingxiao, while expressing his concern, also wished for Wenren Jing not to worry about other men. They discussed returning to the capital, with Lu Tingxiao teasing Wenren Jing about their marriage. Their conversation was interrupted by Doctor Yue, who burst in to announce that many people had gathered at the door and Miss Ling was struggling to hold them back.
Episode 16 (Ending) Recap
The falling out between Wenren Jing, Lu Tingxiao, and Fang Xianxun was a meticulously staged act designed to deceive Song Zhisu and the Northern Kingdom's assassin group, ensuring Lu Tingxiao's smooth return to the Northern Kingdom. With Lu Tingxiao's true identity as Yin Sishen now publicly known, Zheng Lin arrived to pay his respects. Yin Sishen and his wife, Ye Rong'er, were interrupted by a servant who reported many people at the door, causing a stir.
Zheng Lin, humbled, immediately apologized, claiming he was unaware of General Yin's visit to Pingyang. However, Yin Sishen, referring to himself as a "narrow-minded and vengeful" person, reminded Zheng Lin of how he had previously exploited Ye Rong'er's critical condition, necessitating a ten-thousand-year ginseng, to seize Director Liu's Yinshu Pavilion and even wished for Ye Rong'er's death.
Zheng Lin tried to appeal to Ye Rong'er, hoping her generosity would prompt the Marquis Jing'an to overlook his transgressions, offering a luminous pearl as a token of sincerity. Yin Sishen cautioned Ye Rong'er against accepting bribes. Instead, Ye Rong'er proposed an exchange, allowing her to take something else of equivalent value. Zheng Lin readily agreed, and in a clever maneuver, Ye Rong'er successfully reclaimed Yinshu Pavilion for Liu Zhan, much to his joyous relief.
Meanwhile, Yin Sishen entrusted Boqing Hall to Yue Liweng, who expressed his reluctance to see it close and the friends part ways, despite his belief that love ultimately leads to pain. Yin Sishen echoed a similar sentiment, acknowledging that having tasted love's sweetness, it was worth being hurt ten thousand times for. With Boqing Hall in Yue Liweng's care, Yin Sishen and Ye Rong'er prepared to return to the capital.
During their journey back, Ye Rong'er expressed anxiety about facing Yin Sishen's parents due to her previous runaway attempt from their wedding. She worried they would view her as ill-mannered and unreliable. Yin Sishen lovingly reassured her, promising to protect her and bear any consequences, emphasizing that as husband and wife, there was no "burden" between them. He urged her to trust him.
As they hurried back, Ye Rong'er questioned Yin Sishen about the "fake" deployment map used to deceive Fang Xianxun. Yin Sishen clarified that it was a real deployment map, but one for which he had already begun redeploying forces since his return to the capital, ensuring Lin Xie's safety. He also playfully showed jealousy when Ye Rong'er mentioned her "disciple." Upon their arrival at the Yin Mansion in the capital, Yin Sishen's parents awaited them.
Ye Rong'er, still nervous, initially struggled to address them as "Father" and "Mother" during the tea ceremony, accidentally spilling tea on Mr. Yin. Mrs. Yin kindly encouraged her to use "Mrs. Yin" until she felt more comfortable. After the ceremony, Mr. Yin, though appearing stern, sent them to rest. Later, Yin Sishen discovered Ye Rong'er trying to sneak away again, still upset about her perceived blunder.
He brought her osmanthus cakes, a treat his mother had prepared, which Ye Rong'er found delicious. Yin Sishen then showed her their redecorated bed, adorned with red dates, peanuts, longans, and lotus seeds, explaining the symbolic wish for babies. Ye Rong'er lamented having ruined their first wedding night by running away. Later, Mrs. Yin called Ye Rong'er to the Buddha Hall.
Expecting a scolding, Ye Rong'er was surprised when Mrs. Yin embraced her, offering comfort and expressing relief for her safe return. Mrs. Yin showed deep understanding for Ye Rong'er's past actions, attributing them to her parents' early demise and the ensuing hardships, seeing her as an independent young woman. Touched by this unexpected kindness, Ye Rong'er confessed her remorse and expressed a wish that her own mother could have been like Mrs. Yin, pledging to learn and improve.
Meanwhile, Yin Sishen appealed to his father for a special favor regarding their wedding night, which his father reluctantly granted for one night only. Outside, Ye Rong'er and Wen Renling enjoyed a stroll through the familiar streets of the capital. Ye Rong'er happily declared her return. Yin Sishen, accompanying her, playfully remarked that he was more concerned about her bullying others than being bullied herself. He then left her with Yan Wu, claiming other matters required his attention.
Soon after, they spotted Liu Zhan. Yin Sishen quickly told Yan Wu to stay with Ye Rong'er and hurried away. Ye Rong'er excitedly approached Liu Zhan, who explained he had moved to the capital to expand his business, but then admitted his true motivation was to be closer to Wen Renling, who teased him good-naturedly.
As evening fell, Yan Wu led Ye Rong'er back to the mansion, where she was astonished to find their bridal chamber beautifully redecorated by Yin Sishen. He told her that he had dismissed everyone, leaving them alone, and reiterated his desire to fulfill all her wishes. They then shared a cup of wedding wine. Ye Rong'er, feeling shy, was deeply moved by his heartfelt expressions of love and admiration.
Yin Sishen, noting that their old bed was beyond repair, eagerly invited her to try their new one, where they intimately consummated their marriage. Afterward, Ye Rong'er playfully asked if they would be husband and wife in their next lives, to which Yin Sishen humorously replied that she had asked the same question in a previous life. She insisted they must be together for all eternity. Their tender moment was interrupted by an urgent report from the North Border.
Yin Sishen immediately ordered the troops to assemble outside the city for an immediate departure. As he contemplated how to explain the sudden turn of events to Ye Rong'er, she appeared beside him, already dressed in striking battle attire, ready to join him. Lord Lian arrived, apologizing for his delay.
