Different Princess Recap, Plot, Synopsis, Total Episodes

Different Princess Synopsis

The drama tells the story of the female writer Hua Qingge entering her own novel world, transforming into the cannon fodder supporting female character. She initially thought that with the script in hand, she could turn the tide, but things went awry. She ended up in a love-hate relationship with the antagonist Ji Chu, and in fulfilling her mission as the protagonist's "mother", she assisted in the love story between Ji Yun, and Lin Xiyao. It is a story where, despite knowing that Ji Wan'er and Gongye Qi's relationship is heading towards tragedy, she still guards their love.

Different Princess Recap

Episode 1 Recap

In a night filled with chaos, a barrage of arrows rained down on the grand hall. Ji Yun, protecting the entrance with a group of guards, watched as his beloved Lin Xiyao was struck by an arrow in the chest inside the hall, despite the presence of her own guards.

This scene was a culmination of the tragic tale of Ji Chu, the third prince of Liang, who had been taken as a hostage prince to the southern border in his youth. Abandoned by the imperial family of Liang, he endured immense suffering, vowing revenge. At the age of twenty, he overthrew the southern border, returning to Liang with a vengeance, plunging the kingdom into a bloody storm. He meticulously plotted, subverting courtiers and sowing discord within the imperial family.

On the day his brother was to ascend the throne, Ji Chu initiated a revolt to usurp power, even sacrificing Lin Xiyao, whom he claimed to love. As Ji Yun held a bleeding Lin Xiyao, he pleaded with Ji Chu, asking how he could do such a thing to his beloved. Ji Chu coldly replied that sacrificing his beloved was acceptable if it meant ruling the world.

Ji Yun expressed his regret that their brotherhood had come to such a pass, urging Ji Chu to be a wise ruler. Dismissing Ji Yun as a loser, Ji Chu shot an arrow, killing him as he tried to escape with Lin Xiyao. Ji Chu's revenge was complete; he seized the throne, changing the era's name to Xiande, and ushered in a prosperous era for Liang, becoming a dominant ruler.

This entire dramatic narrative was the original creation of a popular author, who, upon finishing her novel, felt a great sense of accomplishment for making the villain truly evil and successfully having him defeat the male lead. However, her triumph was short-lived. Instead of praise, she found an onslaught of angry comments, calling her an "idiot" and criticizing the "plot holes" in her two-million-word story. Readers demanded she change the ending, revive Ji Yun, and topple the twisted Ji Chu.

The author, however, was defiant, declaring she would never change the ending. She scoffed at their opinions, questioning why they didn't read her work when it was more logical. Soon after, she received a mysterious email warning her that her "reader enmity level" had reached its limit.

It demanded she modify the ending of her novel, "The Tale of Yun and Xiyao," to revive Ji Yun and make him defeat Ji Chu, or face the consequences of the plot backfiring on her. She dismissed this as "nonsense" and a "stupid setting." When her computer suddenly crashed, she decided to replace the "junk" after she got paid. Overcome with sudden drowsiness, she collapsed into bed, vowing to sleep early the next day.

While she slept, her computer mysteriously reactivated. The author then woke up to find herself adorned in a wedding dress, her body unresponsive to her commands. A figure approached, and she was stabbed, collapsing as she weakly realized her assailant was Ji Chu. Back in the real world, her computer displayed a message stating she had died within the plot due to the backfiring narrative and that, since she failed to modify the story, it would be "replayed" for her.

She awoke once more, still in ancient times, greeted by a maid who informed her it was her wedding night with Prince Lyu. The maid warned her that Prince Lyu was "bloodthirsty and hard to deal with" and urged caution against breaking taboos. The author quickly realized she had transmigrated into her own novel, "The Tale of Yun and Xiyao," now embodying Hua Qingge, the Princess of Fuyu, who was destined to marry Ji Chu, also known as Prince Lyu.

She remembered that Hua Qingge, as the empress's niece, was sent from Fuyu to marry Ji Chu only to be murdered by him on her wedding night. Her body would then be thrown into a pond, creating the illusion of an accidental drowning – a deliberate act by Ji Chu to incite conflict between the two kingdoms. She realized that everyone, under the emperor's directive, would accept this fabricated story.

Dread washed over her as she comprehended that tonight was her predetermined death. Determined to avoid her demise, Hua Qingge first attempted to hide in a dowry box but quickly dismissed the idea, knowing Ji Chu would easily find her. Leveraging her "author's cheat codes," she recalled Ji Chu's secret passage. However, she reconsidered, realizing that Ji Chu's meticulous nature would make him notice any disturbance, and she would be caught if she used his secret path to the villa.

She decided her best bet was to use qinggong to reach the safety of the roof beams, questioning how Hua Qingge, a character she created, suddenly possessed such an "amazing setting." After several attempts, she finally managed to climb to the beams. Ji Chu entered the room, and Hua Qingge, hiding above, deduced his attention was diverted to a false lead she had created.

She decided to leave her shoes behind as a further decoy, hoping that since Ji Chu had been fooled once, he wouldn't fall for another obvious clue. However, Ji Chu surprised her by issuing a precise order to his guards: "Find a woman in purple whose outfit was stabbed by a sword. She's wearing a pair of red shoes too. Her identity is unknown. When you see her, kill her on sight."

Hua Qingge was baffled by Ji Chu's "unorthodox method," as she had expected him to recognize her obvious clues as a trap. Meanwhile, Gong Yeqi observed the commotion. He noted that their revenge plan had just begun and this unexpected manhunt had occurred far too quickly. His servant, Hong, commented that "she seems to know about our secret" and even "knows that you'll take her life tonight."

Ji Chu, from his perspective, also acknowledged that "this woman knows me very well." Hidden above, Hua Qingge silently lamented her earlier character design for Ji Chu, realizing she "didn't really know" him at all and had made him far too ruthless. A guard reported to Ji Chu that the side courtyards were normal. Ji Chu immediately ordered the capture and interrogation of Hua Qingge's nanny and servants.

Hua Qingge realized her mistake; as a newcomer to Liang, only the empress knew her appearance, so Ji Chu could only identify her by her clothes. She could have simply changed them. Suddenly, her maid and nanny appeared, but Ji Chu's guards swiftly apprehended and executed them. Watching from the rooftop, Hua Qingge was terrified by Ji Chu's cruelty.

Hiding and crying, she desperately wished to return to her own world when suddenly, a man in black appeared and swiftly carried her away. In a different location, the rain had finally stopped at Qinya House. Ji Yun, the Crown Prince of Liang, appeared restless, telling a woman named Lady Wuxue that he felt he had "committed a wrong deed."

Lady Wuxue, a renowned dancer, noted that Ji Yun rarely visited her at night and, given his desperate arrival in the rain and request for a favor, she knew he carried a heavy burden. Ji Yun asked her to care for an individual whose identity he could not reveal. As a woman was brought in, Lady Wuxue observed that their guest had arrived. The woman was Hua Qingge, who, upon seeing Ji Yun, was so overwhelmed she immediately fainted.

Episode 2 Recap

Ji Chu is informed that Hua Qingge has not been found, meaning she must have escaped. He questions if they should proceed with their original plan to make her disappearance look like an accidental drowning. He also asks about the Crown Prince's activities, learning he is still close to Lady Wuxue. Ji Chu decides to seize the Crown Prince's East Office first. His subordinate points out that without Hua Qingge, he cannot attend the imperial audience.

Ji Chu counters that he cannot be blamed if his wife escapes after he diligently searched for her. He suspects someone helped Hua Qingge escape the maze in his residence and expresses interest in finding out who. Hua Qingge, still trapped in the novel's world, laments being unable to return to her reality and her struggle against the villain Ji Chu. When she awakens, she recognizes Ji Yun, her cousin and the story's "dream man," as her rescuer.

She thanks him, and he apologizes for taking her from Prince Lyu's Residence without permission, acknowledging her supposed feelings for Ji Chu. Ji Yun assures her safety and offers to mediate with his mother, advising her to rest and recover. Hua Qingge, impressed by his kindness, expresses regret for how she portrayed him in her original story and vows to rewrite the ending to ensure Ji Chu's demise.

Ji Yun, not understanding her references, warns her to remain discreet and avoid mentioning Ji Chu. He then leaves for the East Office, promising to take her out later. That evening, Ji Yun takes Hua Qingge out to enjoy the bustling night markets of Shengjing, which she finds even more vibrant than her descriptions in the novel. Ji Yun, having previously believed her to be introverted based on his mother's words, is surprised by her lively demeanor.

They join a large crowd gathering to watch Lady Wuxue's highly anticipated monthly performance. Hua Qingge is mesmerized by Lady Wuxue's beauty and graceful dancing, remarking that she is even more stunning than depicted in her story. However, she feels a pang of guilt, recalling that she had written Lady Wuxue's death to advance Ji Chu's plot. She fears revealing her knowledge of future events to Ji Yun.

Meanwhile, Ji Chu, who is also at the performance, observes Hua Qingge with Ji Yun, still unaware of her true identity as his wife. Lady Wuxue, suffering from an illness that mars her beauty without makeup, has been receiving special medicine from Ji Chu to maintain her appearance. This medicine, however, is a tool for Ji Chu to control her, as he is exploiting her desire for eternal youth and beauty.

He plans to use the Rainbow-Colored Dress as part of this scheme, knowing she would sacrifice her life for it. Ji Chu's subordinate confirms that Gongge has delivered the Rainbow-Colored Dress to Lady Wuxue, and she is willing to give her life in exchange. Ji Chu orders them to stick to the plan. Later that night, Hua Qingge returns to her room, startled to find Lady Wuxue sitting silently in the dark.

She learns that Lady Wuxue is now wearing the Rainbow-Colored Dress, immediately realizing its significance. In her original novel, the dress leads to Lady Wuxue's death the following day, with Ji Yun being framed as the murderer by Ji Chu, who seeks to take over the East Office. Hua Qingge briefly considers suicide to escape the novel and rewrite the ending from her own world, thus saving Lady Wuxue.

However, a message appears on her internal "system" instructing her to revise the ending by staying within the story, reviving Ji Yun, and bringing down Ji Chu to avoid a plot "backfire." Accepting her mission, Hua Qingge decides her first step is to prevent Lady Wuxue's death by stealing the Rainbow-Colored Dress. Disguised as a man, Hua Qingge goes to Rumeng House.

At the entrance, she clashes with Prince Qi, Ji Feng, recognizing him as Ji Yun's second brother and a notorious playboy. She proceeds inside, intending to find Lady Wuxue's room. Unbeknownst to her, Ji Chu is also present. His subordinate notices Hua Qingge, recalling her previous association with Ji Yun and her current presence at Rumeng House on the night Lady Wuxue is destined to die.

The subordinate suggests killing her to prevent interference, but Ji Chu, intrigued, orders him to instead deliver a letter to the Crown Prince. Hua Qingge sneaks into Lady Wuxue's room, intending to steal the Rainbow-Colored Dress. However, Prince Qi, Ji Feng, suddenly approaches, forcing Hua Qingge to quickly jump onto the ceiling beam to hide. To her shock, Ji Chu is also hiding on the same beam.

After Prince Qi and his men search the room and leave, Ji Chu confronts Hua Qingge, asking how she knew the Rainbow-Colored Dress was there. Hua Qingge deflects, not revealing her authorial knowledge, and asks Ji Chu the same question, playfully calling him "handsome" and suggesting they become "buddies." Meanwhile, Lady Wuxue's maid, Nuo, knowing the dress will lead to her mistress's death, steals it and attempts to flee but is intercepted by Ji Chu's subordinate.

Shortly after, Lady Wuxue enters, surprised to find Hua Qingge in her room, disguised as a man. Lady Wuxue reveals she is not performing because her dancing dress is missing. Hua Qingge notes this as a positive development, wondering if someone else is also trying to prevent Lady Wuxue's death. At the East Office mortuary, the coroner Lin Xiyao is diligently examining a body, noting the rotten internal organs, the ten-day old death, and the dark blood indicative of poisoning.

Ji Yun arrives, acknowledging her hard work. He then receives a letter revealing Hua Qingge's presence at Rumeng House, sparking his immediate concern. He quickly tells Lin Xiyao to rest and leaves to find Hua Qingge. Alone in the room, Hua Qingge reflects on her mission: if the Rainbow-Colored Dress vanishes tonight and Lady Wuxue is saved, her first step in altering the story will be a success.

Lady Wuxue had mentioned going to get snacks, but after some time, Hua Qingge realizes Lady Wuxue's maid, Nuo, might have taken the dress, and Lady Wuxue's real intention in going to find Nuo was not for snacks, but to retrieve the crucial Rainbow-Colored Dress.

Episode 3 Recap

Lady Wuxue, having finally acquired her Rainbow-Colored Dress, cherished this last opportunity. Ji Yun had helped her retrieve the dress from the maid, Nuo, ensuring Nuo was merely asleep. As Lady Wuxue performed her final dance, Hua Qingge, disguised as Qing, observed her, lamenting internally that Lady Wuxue had put on the dancing dress after all, indicating her own failure to prevent the tragedy.

After the performance, Hua Qingge, determined to prevent Lady Wuxue's suicide, proposed to Ji Yun and Lady Wuxue that the three of them should stay together and drink until dawn. Ji Yun's attendant expressed concern that Hua Qingge was disrupting their plan, fearing Lady Wuxue might change her mind. Ji Yun, however, was confident, stating that "No one can say no to eternal beauty," revealing that eternal beauty was the secret of the Rainbow-Colored Dress.

Hua Qingge continued her efforts to drink with them, boasting of her ability to "never get drunk" in her own world. However, after only a few sips of wine, Hua Qingge collapsed. Lady Wuxue and Ji Yun then discussed Hua Qingge, with Ji Yun remarking that despite her "little secrets," Qing was a kind girl, a sentiment Lady Wuxue agreed with, adding that all girls have their own small secrets.

Ji Yun then asked Lady Wuxue where she obtained the Rainbow-Colored Dress. Lady Wuxue presented him with a brocade box, requesting he accept her "little secret." The next morning, Hua Qingge awoke, disoriented, instinctively reaching for her phone before recalling her predicament within the novel's world. She realized Lady Wuxue was supposed to die last night. Believing she might have altered the plot, she noted the unusual quietness of her current location, Qinya House.

However, her hopes were dashed when she saw Nuo, the maid, hurriedly packing and leaving. Following her instincts, Hua Qingge rushed to the Rumeng House (the brothel), where a crowd had gathered, buzzing with news. She overheard them discussing Lady Wuxue's death and how the crown prince, Ji Yun, was the prime suspect, as he was the only one present at the crime scene when the body was discovered.

This confirmed that Lady Wuxue's death location had indeed shifted from Qinya House to Rumeng House. Meanwhile, Ji Chu, despite his attendant's belief that their plan was proceeding smoothly, felt otherwise. Prince Qi, Ji Feng, spoke to his mother, Imperial Consort Wei, about the crown prince, Ji Yun, alleging Ji Yun's secret relationship with Lady Wuxue and her murder. Ji Feng, driven by his own affection for Lady Wuxue, declared his intent to investigate Ji Yun and avenge her death.

Imperial Consort Wei, disappointed that Ji Feng's focus was on Lady Wuxue rather than his ambition, reminded him to seize the opportunity to impress the Emperor. Simultaneously, His Majesty expressed his severe disappointment to the empress that the crown prince, whom he had appointed to head the East Office to uphold justice, was now embroiled in a murder scandal involving a courtesan. Imperial Consort Wei and Ji Feng then arrived, with Ji Feng reiterating the crown prince's failings.

Imperial Consort Wei, feigning concern for the crown prince, suggested that Ji Feng should temporarily take over the East Office and investigate the case to clear Ji Yun's name, subtly pushing her son's agenda. The empress, supporting the idea, convinced the hesitant Emperor to appoint Ji Feng to investigate the case, giving him the chance to prove himself. Ji Feng readily accepted, promising to swiftly uncover the truth.

Ji Yun, attempting to examine Lady Wuxue's body, was intercepted by Ji Feng, who had now been appointed acting head of the East Office. Ji Feng, feigning regret, informed Ji Yun that "all are equal before the law" and that he should be imprisoned. However, out of "respect" for their brotherhood and to avoid disgracing the royal family, Ji Feng decreed that Ji Yun must remain confined to the Crown Prince's residence until the case was resolved.

Ji Yun congratulated Ji Feng on his new position, urging him to investigate diligently. Ji Feng, in turn, sharply rebuked Ji Yun for his hypocrisy, accusing him of a secret liaison with Lady Wuxue, and ordered the guards to escort Ji Yun back to his residence. Witnessing Ji Yun's arrest, Hua Qingge, still in her male disguise as Qing, realized she needed to help clear his name to alter the novel's original plot and return to her own world.

She recalled that in her story, the female lead, Lin Xiyao, was meant to investigate this case, so Hua Qingge decided to team up with her. She then encountered a note taker from the East Office, who told her that Lin Xiyao had left two hours ago but still hadn't arrived at the crime scene, which was only a half-hour journey away.

The note taker mentioned Lin Xiyao's notorious lack of direction, and Hua Qingge suddenly remembered adding that "sense of direction" flaw to Lin Xiyao's character to make her more interesting. Realizing Lin Xiyao was simply lost, Hua Qingge went to find her. Upon sensing Lin Xiyao's "aura," Hua Qingge greeted her, claiming to be a friend of the crown prince.

Lin Xiyao, who had seen Hua Qingge before, seemed to suspect a different kind of relationship between her and Ji Yun and largely ignored her. Hua Qingge, seizing the opportunity, declared she was going to the dance room to investigate, and Lin Xiyao silently followed. Just then, Ji Chu arrived. He confronted Hua Qingge, suggesting her involvement in the case since she had snuck into Lady Wuxue's room the previous night.

Hua Qingge, playing into her male persona, deliberately teased him, calling him "Handsome" and playfully accusing him of also being involved. She purposefully placed her sweaty hand on him, knowing his germaphobia. She then correctly identified him as Prince Lyu, admiring his good looks and emphasizing their "affinity" due to their names sharing similar color meanings.

Ji Chu's attendant worried that "Qing" might be the missing Hua Qingge and that her exposing Ji Chu's attempt to kill her could be detrimental. Ji Chu, however, dismissed these concerns, revealing that he had tried to kill Hua Qingge to disrupt the alliance between Liang and Fuyu. He reasoned that since the palace authorities had ignored Hua Qingge's disappearance to maintain peace, she was merely a discarded pawn.

He decided to let Hua Qingge investigate the case to help Ji Yun, believing it would "kill two birds with one stone." Hua Qingge, realizing Ji Chu's unpredictable nature, recommitted to helping Lin Xiyao save Ji Yun, hoping to form a "Good People Will Be Safe Union" to unite against Ji Chu. When Hua Qingge attempted to enter the crime scene, she was stopped.

She tried to claim she was Lin Xiyao's friend, but Lin Xiyao, trying to maintain professionalism, denied knowing her. As guards confronted Hua Qingge for trying to barge in, Ji Chu arrived and surprisingly intervened, shielding Hua Qingge from harm. Hua Qingge, ever the provocateur, then jokingly accused Ji Chu of saving her because he wanted her to "repay him with her body."

Ji Chu, clearly annoyed, retorted that while he was "brilliant and mighty," she was "not considered a beauty." Following Ji Chu, Hua Qingge entered the dance room, the site of Lady Wuxue's death. There, Chang Xun, the Command of The Guards, greeted Prince Lyu and showed him to the crime scene. Lin Xiyao had already begun her autopsy, meticulously noting details such as Lady Wuxue's flushed face, cherry-red lips, constricted pupils, and soft limbs, appearing as if alive.

Hua Qingge silently wondered if this perfectly preserved appearance was Lady Wuxue's ultimate wish. Lin Xiyao concluded that Lady Wuxue most likely died from charcoal burning. When Prince Lyu asked about Prince Qi's (Ji Feng's) opinion on the case, Chang Xun reported that Prince Qi was currently at the East Office.

Episode 4 Recap

The female coroner has examined Lady Wuxue's body. Prince Qi, Ji Feng, while enjoying entertainment, receives a report revealing that Lady Wuxue died from charcoal smoke, though who caused it and why remains unknown. His subordinate suggests Ji Feng should lead the investigation since it concerns the Crown Prince, but Ji Feng is reluctant, dreading the sight of a corpse, and dismisses the task as too troublesome.

In a different location, a subordinate reports to Prince Lyu, Ji Chu, that Lady Wuxue likely died in her lounge, where a charcoal brazier was found and the room was sealed, before her body was moved to the dance floor. Ji Chu shows no interest in inspecting the scene. An unseen observer comments that Ji Chu’s indifference confirms his involvement and vows to foil his plans.

As Lin Xiyao prepares to leave the crime scene, she discovers something peculiar on Lady Wuxue's face, revealing a secret about her poor skin condition. Hua Qingge quickly intervenes, blocking Secretary Du, Lin Xiyao's subordinate, from observing it. Lin Xiyao questions Secretary Du about Lady Wuxue's background, learning she is 23 years old, having gained fame eight years ago after joining Rumeng House at 15. Lin Xiyao then covers Lady Wuxue's face.

Meanwhile, Ji Chu discusses Hua Qingge with his subordinate, who worries that Hua Qingge, seen as a rogue, might exploit Ji Chu's reputation. Ji Chu is unfazed, though his subordinate notes Hua Qingge's alarming knowledge of Ji Chu's plans, particularly regarding the Rainbow-Colored Dress. Ji Chu acknowledges her as an "unknown variable" but remains certain of his success in Lady Wuxue's case and his goal of acquiring the East Office. Lin Xiyao and Hua Qingge visit Lady Wuxue's lounge.

Hua Qingge identifies a silk ribbon as Lady Wuxue's and notes the charcoal brazier and sealed room, confirming it as the likely site of death. Hua Qingge then subtly handles withered flowers, guiding Lin Xiyao to discover medicinal dregs in the pot, thus hinting that Lady Wuxue may have committed suicide. Next, they arrive at the Mystic Medicine House, and Lin Xiyao is surprised Hua Qingge knew her destination.

Hua Qingge explains that Lin Xiyao's discovery of a rare herb in the dregs would naturally lead her here. Agreeing on their shared goal to clear the Crown Prince's name, they approach the entrance. Hua Qingge feigns a stomachache, expressing fear of the owner, Gongye Qi, claiming he can "kill without leaving a trace." Just then, Gongye Qi appears, amused by her comment. Hua Qingge recognizes his golden fish, "Hong," and upon realizing his identity, faints from shock.

Later, Gongye Qi tells Lin Xiyao that Hua Qingge's faint was due to stress and fatigue. Lin Xiyao then gives the medicinal dregs to Gongye Qi for analysis. Elsewhere, Princess Ji Wan'er studies a text about Yinbing, a rare, mildly poisonous herb from the mountains of the Southern Border Country. It can preserve beauty, but prolonged use leads to a fatal accumulation of cold qi.

Pondering why the Crown Prince, Ji Yun, asked her to research it, her attendant suggests a link to Lady Wuxue's case. Though Ji Feng is handling the case, Ji Wan'er, determined to support the house-arrested Ji Yun, vows to clear his name. On their journey back, Lin Xiyao realizes Hua Qingge had only pretended to be unconscious. Hua Qingge admits to fainting initially before waking up.

Lin Xiyao shares Gongye Qi's findings: Lady Wuxue had purple spots on her skin, indicating over a decade of Yinbing use, meaning she likely started at age 13. This, coupled with crow's feet on her 23-year-old face, makes Lin Xiyao question if the victim is truly Lady Wuxue. Hua Qingge insists it is her and redirects the focus to the cause of death.

She then suggests they investigate Nuo, Lady Wuxue's maid, whom she saw hastily leaving that morning and who had accused the Crown Prince. They search a ruined temple where Hua Qingge expected to find Nuo, but find only warm charcoal. Hua Qingge deduces Nuo is now at Ji Chu's residence. To link Ji Chu to the case, Hua Qingge devises a plan.

Overhearing a crowd speculating that the Crown Prince's motive was a crime of passion, she dramatically intervenes, producing a "love poem" she claims was written by Prince Lyu (Ji Chu) for Lady Wuxue. To enhance credibility, she publicly declares Prince Lyu to be her master. Ji Chu, watching nearby, is fascinated as Hua Qingge spins a tale of his secret love for Lady Wuxue and insists on the Crown Prince's innocence.

While they wonder how to find Nuo, Secretary Du informs them that Nuo was found unconscious near the East Office and is now imprisoned there. They immediately go. Lin Xiyao interrogates Nuo, who confirms Lady Wuxue committed suicide due to her failing appearance, absolving the Crown Prince. Hua Qingge discreetly asks Lin Xiyao if Nuo met Ji Chu, but Lin Xiyao reports that Nuo denied it, claiming she fainted from exhaustion and awoke in the East Office.

They also learn that Prince Qi (Ji Feng) has ordered the trial to begin the following day. The trial begins with Ji Feng presiding. After the Crown Prince, Ji Yun, is summoned, Ji Chu unexpectedly arrives and takes the seat intended for Ji Yun. Ji Feng objects, but Ji Chu asserts that a suspect should not be seated in court. Hua Qingge observes, finding Ji Chu arrogant and terrifying.

News of Ji Chu's presence reaches Imperial Consort Wei, Ji Feng's mother, who worries about his interference, while the Emperor, also informed, prepares an edict. In court, Ji Feng questions Ji Yun, who denies killing Lady Wuxue. He explains he was attacked and rendered unconscious, waking up beside her. He states that Lady Wuxue was the one who knocked him out and confirms that he saw his attacker.

Episode 5 Recap

Ji Feng questioned Ji Yun about who had attacked him. Ji Yun confirmed he saw the assailant and revealed it was Lady Wuxue, who subsequently committed suicide. When pressed by Ji Feng for the reason behind her suicide, Ji Yun remained silent, citing a promise to Lady Wuxue to keep her secret. Lin Xiyao, the coroner, then presented her findings, stating that Lady Wuxue died from charcoal burning in the lounge, but her body was found in the dance room.

Lin Xiyao questioned how a deceased person could move her own body and how the Crown Prince was found with her. To clarify this, Lin Xiyao called for Nuo, Lady Wuxue's maid. Lin Xiyao directly accused Nuo of moving Lady Wuxue's body from the lounge to the dance room after her death, implying it was a suicide.

However, Nuo vehemently denied this, stating that Lady Wuxue was too beautiful and loved by too many people to ever take her own life. Nuo dramatically reversed her testimony, pointing an accusing finger at Ji Yun, declaring him a sanctimonious prince who deceived and cruelly murdered Lady Wuxue.

Nuo then implicated Hua Qingge, accusing her of being a woman of unknown origin who had caused Lady Wuxue much sadness since her arrival, stating that Ji Yun was having an affair with "Qing." Ji Yun, however, stated that he treated Hua Qingge like his younger sister. Hua Qingge, suspecting Ji Chu's involvement, subtly questioned Nuo about her escape from the ruined temple and if she was held captive.

Nuo lowered her head and glanced at Ji Chu, refusing to answer. Knowing this implicated Ji Chu, Hua Qingge decided to expose Nuo's lies. She presented the medicine dregs from Lady Wuxue's belongings to Bei Wanshu (Ji Wan'er). Bei Wanshu identified the herb as "Yinbing," a beauty and anti-aging medicine with a severe cold toxin that, with long-term use, would lead to organ failure and death, manifesting as purple spots on the body in its late stages.

Lin Xiyao confirmed the presence of such spots on Lady Wuxue's corpse. Hua Qingge then confronted Nuo, accusing her of chronically poisoning Lady Wuxue. Hua Qingge explained that Nuo's motive stemmed from an incident where Lady Wuxue, out of jealousy for Nuo's beauty and popularity, had slashed Nuo's face and forbade treatment, leaving a permanent scar.

Hua Qingge further accused Nuo of exacerbating Lady Wuxue's condition by sealing the doors and windows while Lady Wuxue warmed herself with charcoal, thereby ensuring her death, and then framing Ji Yun. Initially, Nuo denied everything, portraying herself as a victim. However, Hua Qingge revealed Nuo's secret practice of stepping on gold dust in the dance room out of jealousy for Lady Wuxue's dancing, pointing to gold-dusted footprints at the scene as evidence.

Overwhelmed, Nuo broke down and confessed that Lady Wuxue had indeed committed suicide, and she had only moved the body to the dance room. Hua Qingge had deliberately provoked Nuo to extract the full truth. Ji Feng then questioned why Nuo had lied and framed Ji Yun, but Nuo simply claimed she knew nothing. Ji Chu quickly retaliated, questioning why Lady Wuxue had drugged and kept Ji Yun by her side.

Hua Qingge understood that Ji Chu's actions were intended to threaten her into committing suicide to frame Ji Yun, though she lacked concrete evidence to state this openly. Ji Chu further cast doubt on Hua Qingge's identity, reminding everyone that she had publicly claimed him as her master. He then produced a purported love poem written by Lady Wuxue to Ji Yun, painting Ji Yun as a heartless man who deeply betrayed her.

Hua Qingge recognized this as another one of Ji Chu's schemes to frame Ji Yun. Ji Chu intensified his pressure, forcing Hua Qingge to choose between protecting Ji Yun or herself. An imperial decree then arrived, announcing Ji Yun's removal from his position as head of the East Office due to misconduct, with Ji Chu temporarily taking over the role. After being stripped of his position, Ji Yun expressed concern for Hua Qingge, whose knees were injured from kneeling.

He invited her back to his residence for treatment, but Hua Qingge politely declined, worrying that her continued presence would only bring him more trouble from Ji Chu. Ji Yun then asked why she hadn't revealed the true reason for Lady Wuxue's suicide during the trial, and Hua Qingge replied that she intended to keep Lady Wuxue's secret. Ji Chu then approached, asserting his claim over Hua Qingge, reminding her that she had publicly declared herself his person.

Hua Qingge tried to humble herself and ask for release, but Ji Chu insisted she could serve as the lowest-ranked maid in his residence. Ji Yun interceded, stating Hua Qingge was his friend and he was taking her for treatment. Ji Chu countered, citing Hua Qingge's public declaration and accusing her of faking her identity and colluding with Ji Yun.

He then ordered Hua Qingge's arrest for disturbing the court and her imprisonment, stating that Lady Wuxue's case would be retried the next day, and also ordered Ji Yun to return to his residence under house arrest. Ji Chu told Ji Yun that after 15 years, he still hadn't learned to grab what he wanted by any means necessary. Ji Yun retorted that Hua Qingge was not an object.

Hua Qingge, asserting her autonomy, chose to go with Ji Chu, believing it was the best way to protect Ji Yun from Ji Chu's machinations, telling Ji Yun that she was not to be trifled with. Meanwhile, Lin Xiyao's subordinate discovered a dossier revealing that Gongsun Xu, a legendary dancer from forty years ago renowned for her Luo Shen Dance, was the owner of the Melodious Serenity Abode.

Lin Xiyao deduced that Lady Wuxue and Gongsun Xu were the same person, meaning Lady Wuxue was much older than her apparent twenty-three years. She realized Ji Yun had been helping to conceal this profound secret. A letter left by Lady Wuxue to Ji Yun, which he had only recently seen, was revealed. In it, Lady Wuxue, who once was Gongsun Xu, lamented a life bound by beauty, seeking liberation through death.

She also mentioned having disfigured her daughter, Gongsun Nuo, to prevent her from suffering a similar fate, and asked Ji Yun to look after her after her death. Ji Feng, deeply affected by Lady Wuxue's death, expressed his sadness. Ji Wan'er questioned Ji Yun's actions regarding the Glamour Neon Dress and his reluctance to view Lady Wuxue's body. Ji Wan'er remarked that Ji Yun's gentle nature made his actions puzzling.

Ji Feng then complained that his own mother often forced him into things, and some matters were not his to decide. Hua Qingge was subsequently brought to Ji Chu's residence. Ji Yun's guard reported that for now, Hua Qingge was safe in Ji Chu's residence, as Ji Chu would not act rashly until he confirmed her true identity, although the guard acknowledged Ji Chu's ultimate goal was to kill Hua Qingge.

In her luxurious room at Anxiang Hall, Hua Qingge wryly commented on Ji Chu's generosity. Ji Chu appeared, stating that she was worthy of such arrangements and inviting her to visit him in Xuanyu Hall, which was adjacent to her room, if she recalled anything about Hua Qingge. Hua Qingge, while feigning casualness, internally recognized the danger, knowing that once Ji Chu discovered her true identity as Hua Qingge, he would undoubtedly try to kill her again. Later that night, as Hua Qingge slept, she was startled awake by a sudden gust of wind, suggestive of a demon.

Episode 6 Recap

While Hua Qingge slept, a peculiar figure appeared in her room, causing her to shriek in terror. She rushed to the door, only to find it locked and unyielding. Outside, Ji Chu listened to her screams with no surprise, finding it a perfectly normal occurrence. Hua Qingge, realizing she was being tested by Ji Chu, forced herself to stop screaming. When the room fell silent, Ji Chu, believing she might have fainted from fear, ordered the door to be opened.

As he stepped inside, the door closed behind him. Hua Qingge attempted to play a ghost to frighten him, but Ji Chu quickly caught her. He then brought up the Lady Wuxue case, observing that Hua Qingge seemed to know his every thought, leaving her at a loss for words. Ji Chu directly asked if she was Hua Qingge.

She pretended to be clueless, but Ji Chu, sensing her deceit, declared that he would continue this game until she admitted her true identity. He warned her that Mister Song would visit her the next morning to instruct her on the duties of a lowly servant. Hua Qingge, frustrated, bid him an unceremonious farewell, privately reflecting on his difficult nature. The following morning, Hua Qingge, under the guise of Qing, encountered Ji Chu shortly after stepping out.

She reluctantly adopted a compliant attitude as Ji Chu directed Mister Song to rigorously "educate" her. Qing tried to butter up Mister Song, praising his tireless dedication to the Prince Lv Residence. However, Mister Song was unmoved. He relayed Prince Lv's new order: Qing was to spend eight "shichen" (sixteen hours) each day perched on a roof beam.

Qing protested, suggesting she could perform more conventional tasks like washing clothes, cooking, or even cleaning the outhouse, deeming the beam task a "devilish order." Mister Song insisted it was His Highness's specific instruction, even mentioning that Ji Chu referred to her as a "gentleman on the beam" and was confident in her climbing abilities. He warned that if she refused, the residence guards would gladly assist her onto the beam. Resigned, Qing agreed to climb by herself.

Mister Song assured her that despite the simple work, she would receive a salary, food, and lodging, but emphasized she must diligently complete her sixteen hours daily. Meanwhile, Ji Wan'er was preoccupied with worry for her eldest brother, Ji Yun. She reflected on her three visits to the Prince Lv Residence since Ji Chu's wedding, lamenting that she had yet to meet her sister-in-law, Hua Qingge.

Her attendant tried to soothe her, citing Prince Lv's explanation of illness, but Ji Wan'er was troubled by Prince Qi's (her second brother's) claims that Ji Chu had killed their sister-in-law and framed Ji Yun in the Lady Wuxue case. She longed for the days when she and her three brothers were close. Determined, Ji Wan'er quoted the proverb "There's no such thing as too difficult or too easy. If you work on it, even difficult things can become easy.

If you don't, even easy things can become difficult," vowing to mend her relationship with Ji Chu. In the pavilion, Ji Wan'er discovered a half-finished weiqi game, accompanied by two cups of tea. Observing the game, she noted the black stones were played with strategic prowess, while the white stones' position seemed to suffer from impatience and recklessness. She then made a few adjustments to the board, evening the playing field. Just as she finished, Gong Yeqi arrived.

Ji Wan'er initially mistook him for a gardener. Gong Yeqi admitted to feeling "worked up" lately and sought her medical advice. Ji Wan'er recommended a calming concoction of Chinese thorowax root, gentian, Chinese skullcap, and roasted common gardenia fruit. Soon after, Ji Chu arrived. Gong Yeqi departed, and Ji Chu dismissed him as an "unimportant person." Ji Wan'er disagreed, remarking that his outwardly carefree appearance belied the anxiety visible in his chess strategy.

She deduced that Ji Chu played the black pieces based on his familiar style and inferred the other player's identity from their presence. Ji Wan'er then pressed Ji Chu about her sister-in-law, Hua Qingge. Ji Chu vaguely stated that Hua Qingge was unwell, but Ji Wan'er clarified she was referring to Princess Hua Qingge, her cousin from Fuyu.

When Ji Wan'er questioned if he had done something to her, Ji Chu retorted that if she already knew, there was no need to ask. Heartbroken by how much he had changed, Ji Wan'er left in tears but remained resolute in her commitment to restoring their family ties. She also found herself curious about Gong Yeqi, believing his unique relationship with Ji Chu might hold the key to understanding her brother's transformation.

Later, in his study, Gong Yeqi held the four medicinal herbs Ji Wan'er had recommended, a faint smile playing on his lips. His servant playfully questioned why the world's most renowned physician needed a prescription from another. Gong Yeqi replied that a physician cannot treat himself. When a letter arrived from the Prince Lv Residence, the servant remarked on his seemingly telepathic connection with Ji Chu.

After reading the letter, which forbade him from visiting the residence or meeting Ji Wan'er again, Gong Yeqi instructed his servant to discard the herbs he had been examining. In his study, Ji Chu was visited by his eldest brother, Ji Yun. Ji Yun expressed concern, having heard Ji Chu had not returned to the palace.

He probed further, noting his younger brother's sudden change in long-held beliefs, such as his past preference for fish swimming freely in ponds rather than being kept as pets. Ji Chu dismissed it as a whim, but Ji Yun gently reminded him of his deep-seated philosophies, questioning the abrupt shift. Ji Chu asked his elder brother to stop prying.

Ji Yun then explained that he had asked their sister, Ji Wan'er, to check on Qing, as he could not visit himself, wishing to avoid placing Qing in an awkward position between him and Ji Chu. Ji Chu advised Ji Yun that if he truly cared for someone, he should actively fight for her. Ji Yun, however, firmly denied being in love with Qing.

Back at the Prince Lv Residence, Ji Wan'er arrived to visit Qing, finding her dutifully perched on a roof beam. Ji Wan'er immediately ordered Qing to come down. Mister Song quickly intervened, citing Prince Lv's orders, but Ji Wan'er stated she would take the blame. She then took Qing for a walk in the garden. Qing thanked Ji Wan'er for intervening, to which Ji Wan'er revealed that Ji Yun had sent her. Qing inquired about Ji Yun's health, learning he had been admonished by their father but was otherwise fine. Ji Wan'er then looked at Qing, and directly questioned her true identity.

Episode 7 Recap

Hua Qingge expressed her gratitude to Ji Wan'er for taking her out of her room, but Ji Wan'er voiced her suspicion, asking, "who are you?" and questioning how Hua Qingge could have good relationships with both her eldest and third brothers. Hua Qingge responded by claiming she was just an "ordinary" person named Qing, asserting she was good friends with Ji Yun, but had "not at all related" to Ji Chu.

Ji Wan'er did not believe her, but accepted Hua Qingge's reluctance to explain, reminding her that she had promised Ji Yun to visit Hua Qingge often. Ji Wan'er then asked Hua Qingge to do her a favor: to tell Ji Chu to stop "eavesdropping on others." In return, Hua Qingge asked Ji Wan'er to look out for "a young man holding a fish" and ask for his name.

Hua Qingge noted internally that this marked the beginning of Gong Yeqi and Ji Wan'er's "tragic" love story, making her wonder if she should support or try to stop it. Later, Hua Qingge was scattering glutinous rice in her room to "ward off evil spirits and bad luck" when Ji Chu unexpectedly appeared and questioned her actions. Hua Qingge explained what she was doing, then accidentally sprinkled some rice on him.

She quickly tried to clarify that she didn't mean to imply he was "exuding evilness." Ji Chu, acknowledging Ji Wan'er's plea, informed Hua Qingge that she no longer had to eavesdrop but would instead accompany him to the East Office starting tomorrow. Hua Qingge inwardly grumbled that Ji Chu was intent on keeping her close to torment her.

The next morning at the East Office, Secretary Du Hui reported to Ji Chu that he had gathered all the case files from the past fifteen years concerning Shengjing City, placing them in the file room. Ji Chu then ordered Du Hui to bring all of them to him. Du Hui, however, claimed the files were too numerous for him to move alone, prompting Ji Chu to assign Hua Qingge to the task.

Hua Qingge was dismayed, realizing that if a man like Du Hui couldn't move them, she certainly couldn't. Ji Chu gave her a deadline of 5:00 PM and threatened that if she failed, Ji Yun's position as Crown Prince would be "at stake." Hua Qingge, aware that the plot was veering off script, reluctantly agreed. Du Hui privately questioned Ji Chu about bringing Hua Qingge to the East Office.

Ji Chu explained that he wanted her to realize her situation and "reveal her true identity," adding that he would first investigate his mother's fifteen-year-old case before deciding on any action against Ji Yun. Hua Qingge, facing a mountain of files, focused on finding "key information" rather than moving everything. Lin Xiyao arrived, having heard about Hua Qingge's predicament and offering to help.

Hua Qingge lamented that Ji Chu was deliberately trying to "bully" her, knowing it was "impossible to move all of them." After a diligent search, Hua Qingge discovered a crucial drawing. She quickly handed it to Du Hui, instructing him to deliver it to Ji Chu.

Lin Xiyao, noting Du Hui's slow pace, offered to deliver it herself, but Hua Qingge stopped her, reasoning that in her novel, Lin Xiyao had a romantic plotline with Ji Chu, and she wanted to prevent her from interacting with the "devil" and suffering. She then lied, saying Lin Xiyao often got lost. Just as the deadline approached, Ji Chu appeared. Hua Qingge confidently stated that she had ensured he saw "all of the case files" before 5:00 PM.

Ji Chu then revealed his trick, stating she hadn't seen all files as he had already moved one specific file to Jinglv Hall. Hua Qingge immediately realized he had set her up "on purpose." Lin Xiyao, misunderstanding the situation, criticized Hua Qingge for being "lazy" and jeopardizing the Crown Prince.

Thinking quickly, Hua Qingge asked Du Hui to bring her the file she had him retrieve earlier, then claimed her actions were "reasonable" as she merely wanted Ji Chu to see all the files. Ji Chu then pressed her, asking how she knew what was on the drawing and why she understood him so well. Hua Qingge proposed they discuss a "deal" back at his residence.

At Ji Chu's residence, Hua Qingge prepared some appetizers and wine, attempting to intoxicate Ji Chu with a convertible jug. She intended to drink plain water herself while offering Ji Chu the wine. However, Ji Chu's subordinate had switched her water with wine. After just one cup, Hua Qingge collapsed, drunk. The subordinate explained her trick to Ji Chu. Ji Chu pondered why she hadn't poisoned him, speculating she might have foreseen that such a plan would fail.

The next morning, Hua Qingge awoke to find Ji Chu in her room. She chided him for "intruding on a girl's room" without knocking. Ji Chu insisted on continuing their discussion, again asking how she knew about the drawing and why she understood him so well. Hua Qingge, claiming to know many of his "little secrets," offered to share them within a month. Her condition was that for one month, "regardless of what happens, you can't kill me.

Else, you will never know." To her surprise, Ji Chu readily agreed. Hua Qingge, however, remained wary, wondering if he had "found another way to torture me." Later, Hua Qingge encountered a fortune teller in the street. The fortune teller warned her of impending "fatal misfortune." Hua Qingge sought advice on how to save herself while potentially harming others, lamenting her desire to return to her "original world" by "changing the current outcome," or "going against what fate has decided."

The fortune teller, misinterpreting her words, proclaimed her a "chosen one." Hua Qingge corrected him, admitting she was responsible for her own predicament and was "off to awaken one's humanity" in a "stubborn" person. She questioned how to make a "devil into an angel," concluding that it was better to start by making him "learn to be human."

She ended the conversation by stating, "every cause has its consequence and I am the consequence of your deeds," believing she had found clarity. Returning to the East Office, Hua Qingge, with ink smudged on her face from copying, prepared "All-Encompassing Great Tonic Porridge" for Ji Chu. She explained she made it because he works tirelessly and needs to supplement his health, hoping he would feel human warmth. Ji Chu, however, remained impassive, asking what else she wanted.

Undeterred, Hua Qingge later approached Ji Chu and offered him a "bedtime storytelling service." Ji Chu flatly refused. Hua Qingge persisted, explaining that storytelling was a way of "gaining knowledge" and offering to tell a story about "the compassion of Buddha." Ji Chu declared he did not believe in Buddhism. Hua Qingge continued, emphasizing the importance of seeing "hope" and having a "soft, kind heart."

After her persistent attempts, Ji Chu, annoyed that only "seven days" had passed since their agreement, ordered her to leave. Undeterred, Hua Qingge later presented him with "Taoist scriptures" she had copied, claiming they could "purify and cleanse hatred," and that her "soul has been refined" by copying them. Ji Chu, clearly irritated, told her she was the one who needed cleansing and warned her not to "test my patience." Hua Qingge, still covered in ink, lamented internally, "I am trying so hard, yet Ji Chu has shown no signs of turning good."

Episode 8 Recap

Hua Qingge reflected on her efforts to change Ji Chu, but he showed no signs of becoming a good person. Unbeknownst to Ji Yun, Hua Qingge was intentionally creating opportunities for him and Lin Xiyao, hoping to advance their main love story without Ji Chu's interference. Meanwhile, Ji Yun heard reports that "Qing" (Hua Qingge) had grown close to Prince Lv, wrongly assuming she had always fancied Ji Chu and was now getting her wish.

Ji Chu, however, noticed Hua Qingge's intentions and questioned her about "devising plots" whenever she tried to facilitate an interaction between Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao. Elsewhere, Imperial Consort Wei was frustrated with her son, Ji Feng, who spent his days in frivolous pursuits and showed no ambition. She fumed over Ji Chu seizing control of the East Office, which she believed rightfully belonged to Ji Feng.

Ji Feng, however, was indifferent, stating he had no desire to manage such affairs and preferred to be a wealthy and idle individual, much to his mother's annoyance. Imperial Consort Wei then declared she would host a grand banquet in two days to announce Ji Feng's engagement to Liu Xiang, threatening anyone who failed to attend. She made a point to specifically invite Prince Lv (Ji Chu) and his consort, hinting at her malicious intentions.

Ji Feng confronted his mother, questioning why she would invite Ji Chu and his consort, knowing Ji Chu had reportedly killed his own wife. Imperial Consort Wei openly admitted it was intentional, explaining that Ji Chu's interference with the East Office had angered her. She also accused the Empress of purposefully provoking her by recommending Ji Chu for the post.

Ji Feng tried to defend the Empress, suggesting she might genuinely believe he was unsuitable and that the Emperor also favored Ji Chu. He once again expressed his contentment with being "rich and free," further infuriating his mother, who lamented his lack of ambition. Ji Feng eventually left, saying he had other matters to attend to. Ji Chu's attendant, witnessing the court's indifference to the rumors about Hua Qingge, suspected Imperial Consort Wei's invitation had a hidden agenda.

Ji Chu, however, saw the banquet, which he deduced was for Ji Feng and Liu Xiang's engagement, as an opportunity. He confirmed his intention to take action publicly. Ji Wan'er arrived, surprised by the banquet invitation and Hua Qingge's presence as Ji Chu's servant. Hua Qingge, realizing Ji Chu's nefarious plans for the event, boldly suggested that Ji Chu bring her along.

When Ji Chu inquired about her "great idea" to resolve his lack of a consort, Hua Qingge proposed finding someone to impersonate the Princess Consort. She pointed out that only the Empress had ever seen the real princess from Fuyu, implying a plausible deception. Ji Wan'er initially opposed this, fearing it would be deceiving the Emperor, as her own mother, the Empress, had seen the true consort.

Hua Qingge countered that the Empress likely wouldn't expose the lie publicly due to the diplomatic implications between the two kingdoms. Ji Chu liked the idea. Hua Qingge realized she had to stop Ji Chu and declared, "This time, I must stop him." Ji Chu then surprisingly proposed that Hua Qingge herself should impersonate his consort. She protested, mentioning her public recognition from the Wu Xueji case, but Ji Chu insisted it was the only way she would attend.

Ji Wan'er, despite her earlier reservations, agreed to the plan, offering to ask the Empress to verify Hua Qingge's identity, thereby legitimizing her as Prince Lv's consort and protecting Ji Chu from accusations of deceiving the emperor. Ji Chu accepted the terms, stating he would bear the consequences. Hua Qingge inwardly despaired, realizing she was once again becoming the "devil's consort" to prevent him from causing trouble. Ji Chu then had his servant, Mo Yu, prepare Hua Qingge.

As Mo Yu assisted, Hua Qingge noticed her martial arts prowess and grew suspicious. She worried that Ji Chu intended to verify her identity at the banquet and then have Mo Yu assassinate her, thereby killing two birds with one stone. She recalled the novel's plot where Ji Chu aimed to frame Liu Xiang to reopen his mother, Imperial Consort Xian's, case.

Her primary goal was to prevent Liu Xiang from being harmed, but now she feared for her own life as well, especially given the "gold bangle from Fuyu" that she wore.

On their way to the palace, in the carriage, Hua Qingge asked Ji Chu to make space for her, but he rudely instructed her to sit on a mat on the floor, reminding her that her true identity was merely a servant and she was not worthy to sit beside him. Hua Qingge silently fumed but complied, understanding her precarious position as her real identity remained unexposed.

She even attempted to charm him by asking about his preference for "pure and cute" or "charming and seductive" ladies, but he dismissed her, leading her to conclude he was an "idiot with no sense of beauty." Meanwhile, at the palace, Imperial Consort Wei was informed of Prince Lv and his "consort's" arrival, muttering about Ji Chu's audacity in bringing a fake consort.

She continued to scold Ji Feng for his sullen mood on his engagement day, but he curtly stated he felt like a mere "accessory" and left for the banquet. Outside the palace gate, Hua Qingge attempted to disembark from the carriage first, but Ji Chu stopped her, making her wait until he had exited, further asserting his dominance. Hua Qingge's immediate objective at the banquet was to save Liu Xiang.

Imperial Physician Liu's daughter, Liu Xiang, was in the kitchen, preparing herbal porridge. Her father urged her to get ready for her engagement, but she insisted her herbal porridge was not yet ready. The attending ministers gossiped about Imperial Consort Wei's choice of an imperial physician's daughter for Ji Feng, attributing it to the Wei family's growing power under Glorious General Wei Zhao, Imperial Consort Wei's nephew, who arrived to congratulate Ji Feng.

Ji Feng eagerly asked Wei Zhao to take him to the military camp, a request Wei Zhao promised to relay to Imperial Consort Wei after the banquet. The ministers continued to discuss the rumors surrounding Prince Lv's consort, Hua Qingge, questioning if she was truly dead or merely ill, and how Fuyu would react. Just then, Prince Lv and Princess Consort Lv (Hua Qingge) were announced.

As Hua Qingge entered the grand palace hall alongside Ji Chu, she was excited to see all the influential figures, yet worried about Ji Chu's potential mischief. She wondered how he planned to "turn Liu Xiang into a monster" in public. Liu Xiang was then seated beside Hua Qingge. Hua Qingge greeted her, and Liu Xiang recognized her as the Princess Consort Lv, noting the rumors of her being bedridden due to illness.

Hua Qingge offered to make her medicinal meals, which Liu Xiang kindly accepted. Hua Qingge then asked Liu Xiang about her greatest wish. Liu Xiang confessed her desire to marry Prince Qi (Ji Feng), not for love, but to gain access to the Prince Qi residence's head chef, renowned as the best in Shengjing, to learn from him and achieve her dream of becoming the city's top cook.

Hua Qingge was impressed by her ambition but questioned if sacrificing marriage was worth it. Liu Xiang, however, saw Ji Feng as not as useless as rumors suggested and considered the marriage a "great thing," especially for the culinary opportunities it presented. Suddenly, Hua Qingge recalled a crucial plot point from the novel: Ji Chu would use a "fish dish" at the banquet to poison Liu Xiang.

Determined to prevent this, Hua Qingge excused herself, feigning numb legs, and slipped away from the main hall with Mo Yu following close behind. They waited for a lull in activity at the Imperial Food Service, and Hua Qingge instructed Mo Yu to knock out the two guards inside.

When Mo Yu questioned her motives, Hua Qingge, unable to explain fully, asserted her status as Princess Consort and threatened to create a scandal by revealing she was caught "stealing dishes," which would severely embarrass Ji Chu. Mo Yu quickly incapacitated the guards. Inside, Hua Qingge discovered the "fish dish" was the last one remaining.

Unable to identify which specific portion was meant for Liu Xiang, Hua Qingge declared, "Since I don't know which dish is which, I'll pour all of them away," successfully thwarting Ji Chu's plan to poison Liu Xiang. Meanwhile, Ji Wan'er encountered Gongye Qi, a musician, in the palace. She remembered asking Hua Qingge about him earlier. She noted he wasn't an imperial musician and that he hadn't been to Prince Lv's residence to play chess with Ji Chu recently.

Ji Wan'er expressed her own love for chess and wished to spar with him, claiming her skills were on par with Ji Chu's. Gongye Qi, however, claimed to be busy and not a resident of the palace, explaining that he was merely filling in for a sick musician friend. Ji Wan'er, persistent, asked for his residence. After some hesitation, Gongye Qi revealed his name, "Gongye Qi," and that he lived in the Mystic Medicine House.

Ji Wan'er was surprised to realize he was the renowned "Nangong Physician," whom she had imagined to be an "eccentric old man." She expressed her surprise at his youth and promised to visit the Mystic Medicine House another day before returning to the banquet.

Episode 9 Recap

Ji Wan'er encountered Gong Yeqi and expressed her desire to spar with him in chess. Gong Yeqi, however, made an excuse, stating he needed to leave for the banquet. Before his departure, he sprinkled a fine powder onto Ji Wan'er's face, causing her to see numerous colorful butterflies. When Hua Qingge found Ji Wan'er, she was smiling and laughing at thin air.

Hua Qingge awoke her, but Ji Wan'er had no recollection of what had transpired, only remembering a peculiar fragrance. Ji Wan'er recalled having read about drugs that induce hallucinations, but she couldn't remember who she had met. Hua Qingge, recognizing the bitter-scented fragrance, identified it as a rare herb called Butterfly Jiegeng. When ground into powder and inhaled, it induces temporary hallucinations and memory loss upon awakening.

Hua Qingge deduced that Gong Yeqi had administered the drug to Ji Wan'er, intending for her to forget their encounter. Later, in the Grand Hall, Imperial Consort Wei deliberately called Ji Chu and Hua Qingge forward, aiming to expose Hua Qingge as a fake and reveal some flaw. To her surprise, the empress expressed her longing for Hua Qingge, addressing her affectionately.

Imperial Consort Wei, however, remained suspicious of Hua Qingge's identity, suggesting that as a woman from Fuyu, Hua Qingge should be skilled in singing and dancing, and requested a performance of Fuyu's Dance of the Dreams. Hua Qingge found herself in a predicament, as she was adept at climbing rafters but not at dancing, and had only heard the name "Dance of the Dreams" mentioned in a novel.

Despite this, the empress also urged her to perform, stating that refusal would be an act of deception against His Majesty. Ji Yun, determined to protect Hua Qingge because he believed her true identity would be detrimental to her if known by Ji Chu, watched anxiously. Hua Qingge then walked to Ji Yun and invited him to dance with her. She had taught him some duet moves days prior, and he readily agreed, having seen them dance together before.

As they gracefully danced together, many officials in the hall murmured about the impropriety of the married Princess Consort Lv holding hands with the Crown Prince, a scene that stirred a pang of jealousy in Ji Chu. The dance concluded, but Imperial Consort Wei seized the opportunity to find fault, claiming the dance was not Fuyu's Dance of the Dreams, and therefore, Hua Qingge could not be the true Fuyu Princess.

The empress, however, defended Hua Qingge, explaining that while most girls from Fuyu were indeed graceful dancers, her niece Qing was an exception. Instead of delicate dances, Qing preferred wielding swords and spears, having grown up learning martial arts. To prove her point, the empress instructed Hua Qingge to let Imperial Consort Wei feel her hands, revealing the thin layer of calluses on her right palm and finger pads, a mark of her extensive sword training.

Although Imperial Consort Wei was visibly displeased, she had no retort. The empress further explained that she had allowed the dance challenge to proceed to publicly affirm Hua Qingge's identity and prevent further doubts. Hua Qingge inwardly realized that her true identity was now confirmed, which might lead to more troubles in the future, but she felt it was worth it if it meant protecting Liu Xiang from being framed by Ji Chu.

Next, Imperial Consort Wei called Ji Feng and Liu Xiang forward for their engagement ceremony. As they prepared to exchange gifts, a silver needle was discreetly pricked into Liu Xiang's neck. Liu Xiang felt a pang of pain but dismissed it. Suddenly, she became acutely unwell, her eyes turning red and her hair turning white. Hua Qingge, recalling that Liu Xiang's "demon poison" should have been resolved, was shocked. The court erupted in screams of "Monster!"

, as Liu Xiang, seemingly consumed by a malevolent force, began to approach Ji Feng. Hua Qingge, ignoring her own safety, rushed to Liu Xiang's side, pleading with her not to give in to the transformation. However, Liu Xiang, now in a monstrous state, gripped Hua Qingge's neck, lifting her off the ground. At that critical moment, both Ji Chu and Ji Yun appeared, collaborating to rescue Hua Qingge from Liu Xiang's grasp.

Afterward, His Majesty tasked Ji Chu with investigating the monstrous incident thoroughly. Hua Qingge realized that Ji Chu was exploiting Liu Xiang's misfortune, using the incident as a pretext to reopen the cold case surrounding his own mother, Imperial Consort Xian. His Majesty, haunted by the events, recalled the first time he met Imperial Consort Xian. He had been captivated by her beauty and her mesmerizing dance performance during his birthday celebration.

However, shortly after her dance, Imperial Consort Xian suddenly collapsed, her hair turning white and her eyes red, causing everyone to cry out "Monster!" In that chaos, General Wei Zhao shot an arrow, killing Imperial Consort Xian. Back in the present, His Majesty confided in his attendant, Li De, wondering if he had wronged Imperial Consort Xian. Li De reassured him that Prince Lv's investigation would soon bring the truth to light.

That night, Ji Feng suffered nightmares, reliving the horrific sight of Liu Xiang's transformation, with Imperial Consort Wei trying to comfort him. Liu Xiang's father sought out Imperial Consort Wei, pleading for her help to clear his daughter's name from the monstrous allegations, noting that she was now imprisoned in the Eastern Court. He reminded Imperial Consort Wei that they were "in the same boat," hinting at a shared secret from the past.

Imperial Consort Wei assured him she would handle the matter, but cautiously, implying a long-term plan. Meanwhile, Ji Chu's subordinates confirmed that the files on Hua Qingge, Princess of Fuyu, indeed recorded her martial arts training since childhood, corroborating the empress's statements. Ji Chu acknowledged that Hua Qingge was indeed his imperial consort. His subordinate then inquired if they should eliminate her, but Ji Chu, after a moment's thought, ordered them to prioritize the investigation into his mother's case first.

The subordinate also noted a recent change in Ji Chu's demeanor, unsure if it was for better or worse. Ji Chu, perhaps recalling a past moment of Hua Qingge being drunk and complimenting his appearance and smooth skin, instructed his subordinate to continue observing, cautioning against jumping to conclusions due to too many unknowns.

Episode 10 Recap

News quickly spread that Liu Xiang had died. Upon hearing this, Hua Qingge rushed out of her room and followed Ji Chu to the East Office to investigate. A guard reported that about an hour earlier, he heard Miss Liu screaming from inside her cell. When he rushed in, he found her dead, but there was no culprit present.

The guard also showed them Adamantine Talismans sent by Prince Qi's Residence that night, which were believed to suppress demonic auras and had been pasted in the cell. Hua Qingge was distraught to see Liu Xiang's body, remembering her aspirations to become a chef and her budding relationship with Ji Feng, and she internally blamed Ji Chu for destroying her future. She observed that Liu Xiang's hands and legs were tied, ruling out suicide.

The guard also pointed out a Vajra Weapon, also from Prince Qi's Residence, which was said to defeat evil. Ji Chu questioned the guard about other exits in the prison, and the guard explained that the cell, known as the "Iron Box," was a sealed room with only one entrance, specifically designed for unusual criminals with unbreakable walls and windows. This confirmed it was a locked-room murder, making it impossible for anyone to enter, kill Liu Xiang, and escape undetected.

Neither Ji Chu nor the guard had any idea who the killer could be. Ji Chu then questioned Hua Qingge directly, asking who she thought killed Liu Xiang. Hua Qingge believed Ji Chu was responsible for Liu Xiang's death and felt a pang of guilt for failing to protect her, but she kept her thoughts to herself. Ji Chu pressed her, reminding her of her eloquence when defending Ji Yun, implying her silence now was suspicious.

Hua Qingge responded by saying she dared not speak much in the presence of Prince Lv. Meanwhile, Ji Feng, traumatized by seeing Liu Xiang's transformation, awoke from a nightmare, screaming about demons and refusing to marry Liu Xiang. His mother, Imperial Consort Wei, comforted him, promising to find a way to break off the engagement and protect him.

Ji Feng expressed his distress, asking if Imperial Consort Xian was also a demon and if she would seek revenge on him because their uncle had killed her. Imperial Consort Wei affirmed that Imperial Consort Xian was a demon and reassured Ji Feng that any revenge would be directed at her and his uncle, not him.

Ji Feng lamented that he wished everyone could get along, to which Imperial Consort Wei reflected on the inherent tragedy of royal life, filled with luxury yet constant apprehension. Before leaving, she urged Ji Feng not to be afraid, promising to handle everything. Hua Qingge, convinced that the locked-room scenario was a deception, believed Ji Chu had used a secret passage to send someone to kill Liu Xiang.

Meanwhile, Lin Xiyao conducted an autopsy, reporting that Liu Xiang died from excessive bleeding caused by a sharp instrument piercing her chest and rupturing her cardiac artery, approximately two hours prior. Lin Xiyao explained that Liu Xiang's sudden transformation at the engagement banquet, followed by her return to normal, could be attributed to a special medication that caused temporary physical changes. However, Lin Xiyao added that no poison or such medication was detected in Liu Xiang's blood.

This puzzled Hua Qingge, who knew from her novel that such poisons should be easily detectable, leading her to realize that this reality deviated from her fictional world. She suspected Ji Chu was feigning ignorance, having orchestrated the poisoning and murder to frame Ji Feng. A guard then presented a theory, citing a rumor that the Vajra Weapon from Zhendao Temple could kill demons.

He speculated that if Liu Xiang was indeed a demon, the Vajra Weapon from Prince Qi's Residence could have killed her. Ji Chu used this to his advantage, pointing out that in a locked room where no one else could enter, the presence of Prince Qi's Vajra Weapon in the victim's chest strongly implicated Prince Qi as the culprit.

Ji Chu then ordered Li Yi to inform the Liu family of Liu Xiang's death and to name Prince Qi as the main suspect. Hua Qingge realized Ji Chu's true motive was to target the Wei family, who supported Prince Qi. Ji Chu then ordered Liu Xiang's body to be moved to the mortuary and heavily guarded.

Hua Qingge attempted to avoid returning to the Prince Lv Residence by offering to go with Lin Xiyao to her home, but Ji Chu expressly forbade it. Hua Qingge knew that since Ji Chu had confirmed her true identity, returning to his residence would be walking into a trap. Meanwhile, guards openly gossiped about Hua Qingge being Prince Lv's consort and the "thief" who had previously trespassed.

Ji Chu ordered Xiao Yan to bring the three men who were on duty that night for individual questioning. The first guard reported that during their watch, only Xiu, Liu Xiang's personal maid, had visited. She presented an identity tablet and delivered a box of pastries. The guard believed Liu Xiang had eaten them, as he overheard Xiu urging her to and knew they were her favorite.

Hua Qingge wondered if Ji Chu suspected the pastries had somehow masked the poison. Ji Chu then questioned Hua Qingge directly about whether Liu Xiang ate the pastries, accusing her of playing dumb. Hua Qingge, feigning fear, attributed her apprehension to Ji Chu's fearsome reputation and rumors about his cruel practices in the Southern Border. Ji Chu challenged her, noting she grew up in Fuyu and hadn't visited the Southern Border or Liang before, questioning how she knew such rumors.

Hua Qingge maintained that she was not the Hua Qingge he believed her to be. Xiao Yan, having reviewed Hua Qingge's dossier, confirmed that the real Princess Hua Qingge had indeed studied martial arts from a young age. The second guard was brought in and immediately pleaded for his life, fearing Ji Chu would behead him and turn his skull into a wine glass.

Under pressure, he reported that he couldn't be certain if Liu Xiang ate the pastries, as she remained silent throughout Xiu's visit. He added that he was the one who entered her cell later to paste the talismans and had found her asleep. The third man, Commander Chang, then testified. He was the first to rush into Liu Xiang's cell after hearing her scream, "Stay away." He found the room in complete darkness.

Once another guard lit a candle, they discovered Liu Xiang's body. Commander Chang, recalling the cell was a locked room, expressed his confusion as to how anyone could have entered or left, and speculated that Liu Xiang's own "demonic influence" might have caused her to hallucinate, leading to her death by the Vajra Weapon.

Ji Chu dismissed him, instructing Xiao Yan to prepare for their return to the residence for the night, as they would meet the Emperor the following day. Liu Xiang's father was devastated by her death, mourning deeply and vowing to seek justice for his daughter. Later that night, Gong Yeqi delivered a package of pastries to Liu Xiang's father on Ji Chu's behalf, stating that Ji Chu wanted him to examine them.

This was followed by a flashback scene of Liu Xiang happily preparing food for her father before her engagement, discussing her willingness to marry Prince Qi to further her cooking skills. Later, Liu Er reported to Liu Xiang's father that Xiu, who had delivered the pastries to Liu Xiang, had not returned. Later, a princess arrived at the Prince Lv Residence.

When informed that Ji Chu was in the palace, she stated she wasn't there for him but for her "sister-in-law." She declined the steward's offer to lead her to Anxiang Hall, where the Princess Consort resided, choosing instead to go to the pavilion and asking him to send Hua Qingge to meet her there. Her maid questioned why she was looking for someone nicknamed "Player of White Stones," given he hadn't visited lately. The princess clarified that she simply enjoyed the pavilion's scenery and decided to visit Hua Qingge. Hua Qingge then met the princess at the pavilion.

Episode 11 Recap

While Gongye Qi was having tea, Ji Wan'er approached him. She suddenly realized that the unique aroma she had detected the other day was the same scent that emanated from him, a rare herb called Butterfly Jiegeng. She had already suspected that she had met him yesterday, a fact Gongye Qi confirmed, noting her sharp observation.

He was surprised that she did not question why he had erased her memory, but Ji Wan'er expressed that merely seeing him was enough for her, and she had no need to pry. Moreover, since he was a close friend of her third brother, Ji Chu, she would respect their secrets. She then asked his name and where she could find him. Gongye Qi introduced himself as Gongye Qi from the Mystic Medicine House.

Ji Wan'er, recognizing the name as a reclusive yet astonishingly skilled physician, exclaimed in surprise, prompting Gongye Qi to remark that she had made the same surprised comment yesterday. She proposed that they become friends, assuring him she would not interfere in his affairs. Unbeknownst to them, Hua Qingge was secretly observing their interaction. She saw Gongye Qi as a wicked man, much like Ji Chu, and harbored reservations about him being with Ji Wan'er.

Yet, she found the scene between them beautiful, even if she knew their future love story would become a tragic one. Meanwhile, Imperial Consort Wei visited His Majesty, complaining that Liu Xiang was responsible for Ji Feng's current state of shock and illness, recalling how a young Ji Feng had witnessed Imperial Consort Xian's tragic end. She vehemently denied any implication that Ji Feng was involved in Liu Xiang's demise, insisting that her son was the most wronged.

His Majesty instructed Ji Chu to thoroughly investigate Liu Xiang's "demonization" case, as he considered the situation a disgrace to the imperial family. Ji Chu reported that the initial findings pointed to Ji Feng, which only enraged Imperial Consort Wei further, leading to a heated exchange where Ji Chu implicated the Wei family behind Ji Feng. His Majesty sternly put an end to their public bickering.

Later, the Empress voiced her concerns to Ji Yun about his public conduct, reminding him that his recent dance with Hua Qingge was inappropriate, as Hua Qingge was now Prince Lv's consort. Troubled by his unmarried status, she informed him that she intended to arrange a marriage for him, an important matter for the nation's future.

Soon after, Eunuch Li summoned Ji Yun to Xuanze Hall, where His Majesty officially tasked both Ji Yun and Ji Chu with jointly investigating Liu Xiang's murder, rejecting the notion that she had merely "demonized." In Xuanze Hall, Ji Yun confronted Ji Chu, stating his belief that Ji Chu did not truly suspect Ji Feng of killing Liu Xiang, and questioning his report.

Ji Chu coldly retorted that it made no difference whether the culprit was Ji Feng or Imperial Consort Wei, implying his focus was on a larger target. Ji Yun attempted to appeal to their past family bonds, hoping they could return to their childhood harmony or at least avoid further estrangement. Ji Chu, however, remained unyielding, declaring that unless Ji Yun could bring the dead back to life, their paths would never cross again.

Ji Yun’s attendant expressed frustration at his tolerance, but Ji Yun quietly acknowledged their own past abandonment of Ji Chu. Ji Chu later discussed Qing with Gongye Qi, confirming his suspicion that Qing was Hua Qingge but admitting her behavior was still puzzling. Gongye Qi warned Ji Chu about keeping such a potentially dangerous person so close.

Ji Chu explained his two-fold strategy: to uncover her true identity and to leverage her against Ji Yun, who had shown an unusual interest in her, effectively using her as Ji Yun's weakness. Gongye Qi cautioned Ji Chu that any leniency on his path of revenge could lead to unimaginable consequences.

Ji Chu affirmed his resolve, and Gongye Qi, before leaving, urged Ji Chu not to harm Ji Wan'er, to which Ji Chu replied that he should keep his sister away from him. Meanwhile, Hua Qingge expressed her desire to Ji Wan'er to leave the Prince Lv Residence.

She feared that staying with Ji Chu would eventually lead to her death, especially since her identity as the true Hua Qingge was a secret that could put her life in peril if exposed, while Ji Chu, being a respected prince, would face fewer consequences. Ji Wan'er initially hesitated, pointing out that Hua Qingge's recent public appearances made a sudden disappearance suspicious.

However, seeing Hua Qingge's genuine fear and desperation, Ji Wan'er offered a compromise: Hua Qingge could reside in Jingzhi Library, provided she agreed to appear as Princess Consort Lv for all necessary official functions and palace banquets. Hua Qingge readily agreed, and in a moment of shared trust, asked to call Ji Wan'er by her given name. Ji Wan'er, touched, consented.

Hua Qingge embraced her, explaining her belief that Ji Wan'er's protection would be her ultimate safeguard, given Ji Wan'er's status as Ji Chu's only beloved sister in the novel she knew. Just then, Ji Chu, who had been listening nearby, emerged, clearly displeased. He confronted Hua Qingge about her intention to leave.

Hua Qingge, caught off guard but defiant, declared her allegiance to Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao, whom she intended to protect, and criticized Ji Chu as a "cold, perverted, no-boundaries murderer." She called Ji Yun "everyone's pure and innocent moon" and her own, adding that she could no longer stay in Prince Lv Residence. Fearing Ji Chu's reaction, she quickly ran off.

Ji Wan'er quickly intervened, clarifying to Ji Chu that Hua Qingge was heading to her Jingzhi Library, not to seek out Ji Yun, which diffused the tension and prevented Ji Chu from ordering his guards to pursue her further. Later, Ji Yun arrived at the Jingzhi Library to discuss Liu Xiang's case with Ji Wan'er and Hua Qingge.

They were soon joined by Lin Xiyao, who revealed that a re-examination of Liu Xiang's body showed signs of a "demonic poison" in her abdomen, which she had initially missed. This poison, capable of transforming a body to resemble a monster, was found to have been masked by another drug, explaining why it was initially undetectable. Ji Yun and Hua Qingge then proceeded to the jail to re-enact the murder. Upon arriving, they found different guards on duty.

Ji Yun requested the previous night's guards, Commander Chang, Wang Senior, and Wang Junior, but was informed that Wang Senior and Wang Junior had been taken by Prince Lv, and Commander Chang was on sick leave. Inside the cell, they pondered the inconsistencies in the guards' testimonies, particularly why the perpetually lit candles were extinguished and who could have accurately struck Liu Xiang in the dark.

Hua Qingge suggested Liu Xiang herself might have put out the candles, but Ji Yun found it improbable. Considering the limited time frame, Ji Yun proposed a new re-enactment: what if Commander Chang killed Liu Xiang first, and "then" extinguished the candles? They agreed to try this scenario.

Episode 12 Recap

Ji Chu brought Liu Xiang's maid, Xiu, to the jail for identification by the guards who had seen the pastry delivery. The guards, however, stated that this Xiu was not the one they saw that night. Xiu immediately knelt, explaining that she had indeed intended to deliver pastries to Liu Xiang but was ambushed and knocked unconscious by a black-clad assailant at the door.

She only woke up back at her residence and subsequently learned of Liu Xiang's tragic death, denying any involvement. Ji Chu then pressed the guards for a more detailed description of the other Xiu, threatening them with severe consequences if they failed to identify her from a drawing. Meanwhile, Ji Feng was astonished to hear of Liu Xiang's death.

He expressed relief at not having to marry "that monster," yet also felt anxious because the cause of death remained undetermined, musing about the separation between humans and demons. In the jail, Hua Qingge and Ji Yun were trying to piece together the events of the murder. Feeling stuck, Hua Qingge questioned the guards again. They admitted to feeling sleepy or having dozed off for a moment, causing a delay in their response.

Hua Qingge realized that someone must have drugged the guards, creating a perfect window for the killer to murder Liu Xiang after she was incapacitated. She concluded that the guards had unintentionally provided the murderer with an alibi. Ji Yun immediately ordered the arrest of Chang Xun, who was a prime suspect. Hua Qingge and Ji Yun then joined Ji Chu and Lin Xiyao.

Lin Xiyao revealed that her re-examination of Liu Xiang's body had uncovered a strange substance: Demon Poison. She speculated that a certain medicine in the pastries could have temporarily suppressed the poison, making it undetectable during the initial examination. Hua Qingge noted the surprising new development. Ji Chu mentioned that he had already sent men to arrest Chang Xun, but a guard reported that Chang Xun had vanished. Ji Chu promptly ordered a city-wide search.

Hua Qingge found the escalating complexities of the case increasingly perplexing. Hua Qingge encouraged Lin Xiyao, who was tasked with retrieving Chang Xun's background dossier, despite Lin Xiyao's modesty about her skills. Hua Qingge, disliking the formal title of "Princess Consort Lu," asked to be called "Qing." The dossier revealed that Chang Xun was a Guard Supervisor in the East Office, formerly serving under General Wei Zhao, and had been transferred to care for his sick mother.

Ji Yun noted Chang Xun's connection to General Wei Zhao. Hua Qingge speculated that the "fake Xiu" who delivered the poisoned pastries might be an attendant of Imperial Consort Wei. Ji Chu ordered portraits of all Imperial Consort Wei's maids to be presented for the jail guards to identify. The guards identified a maid named Si Yan as the "fake Xiu," confirming she was Imperial Consort Wei's personal maid.

Ji Chu dispatched guards to summon Si Yan for questioning, acknowledging the extensive implications of the case. Hua Qingge, observing Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao's serious discussion about the case, tried to create opportunities for them to focus on their personal feelings. A guard arrived at Ning'an Palace to summon Si Yan, but Imperial Consort Wei refused the summons.

She claimed Si Yan had been bedridden with a heat rash for two days and could not leave the palace, with imperial physicians ready to testify. It was later revealed that Imperial Consort Wei had given Si Yan a "snowflake cake" and medication to fake her illness. Hua Qingge, frustrated by Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao's continued focus on work, tried to leave them alone to encourage their romance.

Ji Chu was informed that Si Yan could not be summoned due to her alleged illness, a development he had "expected." Hua Qingge insisted on sending Lin Xiyao home first with Ji Yun, feigning concern for Lin Xiyao's poor sense of direction to give them time together. Later, while pretending to sleep in the carriage, Hua Qingge internally wished for Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao's relationship to progress.

The next day, Ji Yun received news that Liu Mingsheng, Liu Xiang's father, had been murdered. Hua Qingge was surprised, noting this event was not in her novel. Lin Xiyao examined Liu Mingsheng's body, reporting a fatal knife wound to the neck, indicating a swift death around midnight without struggle.

Hua Qingge theorized that if Ji Chu's earlier actions against Liu Xiang were intended to instigate conflict between the Wei family and Liu Mingsheng, then Liu Mingsheng's death could be a result of that escalating rivalry. They questioned Liu Mingsheng's servant, who, after some hesitation, revealed that his master had met with Ji Chu privately before leaving for his rendezvous the previous night.

Ji Yun confronted Ji Chu, who defended his private meeting with Liu Mingsheng and challenged Ji Yun's suspicions. Hua Qingge supported Ji Chu, arguing that Liu Mingsheng's death would not benefit him and that he would have protected him instead. Lin Xiyao's autopsy further revealed that the killer used a "left-handed knife" with fierce martial arts skill, leading Ji Yun to realize that Chang Xun, known to be left-handed, was likely the murderer.

Chang Xun was quickly apprehended after being spotted by guards. During his interrogation, Ji Chu confronted him about the murders of Liu Mingsheng and Liu Xiang. Chang Xun confessed to both crimes, claiming he acted alone out of gratitude to General Wei Zhao. He called Liu Xiang a "demoness" for wanting to marry Prince Qi, stating he had to eliminate her to protect the prince.

He also killed Liu Mingsheng, claiming he was a "scoundrel" for siring a "demoness" and to prevent future trouble for Prince Qi. Despite Ji Chu's persistent questions about a possible mastermind, particularly Imperial Consort Wei or General Wei Zhao, Chang Xun remained adamant that he acted alone and was prepared to pay with his life.

Imperial Consort Wei, upon learning that Chang Xun had maintained his story, felt relieved, believing her involvement was securely hidden and that she would now be "free of worries." Hua Qingge recognized Imperial Consort Wei's cunning in employing a loyal scapegoat, realizing this might permanently obscure the truth of Imperial Consort Xian's past case. With Chang Xun's confession, Ji Yun noted that the investigation had reached an impasse, but Ji Chu calmly advised him to "wait for the East Wind."

Hua Qingge observed Ji Chu's composure. At that moment, Liu Mingsheng's personal servant arrived at the East Office, demanding to see Ji Chu. The servant presented a wooden box, explaining that Liu Mingsheng had instructed him to deliver it to Ji Chu if he did not return within a day. Inside, Ji Chu found a confession letter written by Liu Mingsheng.

The letter detailed how, fifteen years prior, Liu Mingsheng, under the command of Imperial Consort Wei, had poisoned Imperial Consort Xian with Demon Poison, leading to her death. This act had secured Liu Mingsheng's position as Head Imperial Physician.

Acknowledging his past sins and viewing his daughter's death as karmic retribution, Liu Mingsheng wrote that Imperial Consort Wei had summoned him for a secret meeting, and anticipating danger, he had penned the confession to "expose all of this evil Imperial Consort's crimes." Hua Qingge, upon reading the letter, realized her earlier misjudgments of Ji Chu and hoped that his successful pursuit of justice for his mother would finally lead him away from his "villainous path."

Episode 13 Recap

After Ji Chu presented the findings of his investigation, His Majesty was furious to learn that Imperial Consort Wei was behind everything. Expressing deep regret for what happened to Ji Chu's mother, His Majesty acknowledged the clear evidence against Imperial Consort Wei. However, he deemed it an unsuitable time to reveal the truth, citing the powerful Wei family's control of the military and the need for a more extensive plan to uproot them without causing instability.

Ji Chu, frustrated that his father continued to protect the Wei family, resolved to show no mercy and seize their military power himself. Soon after, Ji Yun also approached His Majesty, urging him to disclose the full truth. His Majesty explained that his hesitation was not due to Imperial Consort Wei alone, but the powerful Wei family behind her. He argued that minor issues should not jeopardize current major affairs.

Ji Yun felt this decision was unfair to Ji Chu, as his mother's case remained a deep, unresolved wound. Ji Yun emphasized that as the Crown Prince, he believes a royal is as equally punishable as a commoner when breaking the law, and he could not break his principles.

His Majesty, however, advised Ji Yun that for the sake of the country, a ruler must sometimes turn a blind eye and prioritize the greater good, even if it means sacrificing the justice of a few for the peace of the populace. Ji Yun struggled to understand this, but His Majesty questioned if Ji Chu currently had the power to confront the Wei family. Ji Chu later discussed the Emperor's decision with Gong Yeqi, both expressing anger at the injustice.

Gong Yeqi declared the Emperor an "ineffectual ruler" for covering up for Imperial Consort Wei, saying that the royal family had become rotten to the core. Ji Chu questioned what good it did to be angry, stating he never had any lingering affection for the royal family. Gong Yeqi then suggested he would go into the palace to kill the evil woman.

Ji Chu challenged him, asking if he would let her get away with it so easily after all their years of planning. Gong Yeqi realized that under the ruler's protection, gathering more evidence was futile, concluding they had been approaching the problem incorrectly from the start and needed to devise a new strategy. Meanwhile, Hua Qingge, still concerned about Ji Chu, went to his residence.

Ji Wan'er spotted her and questioned her return, but then noticed Gong Yeqi and quickly left. As Hua Qingge wondered how to find Ji Chu, he suddenly carried her to the rooftop. Startled at first, Hua Qingge realized Ji Chu was drinking heavily to drown his sorrows. Despite not knowing his intentions, she felt a pang of sympathy, speculating that he seemed bitter and had not actually gotten revenge for his mother.

Ji Chu then asked Hua Qingge if she missed her home far away, to which she confirmed, but added she could not return. He shared that he, too, once desired to return home, but found himself feeling even further away. Ji Chu admitted he returned for revenge and saw his few years with his mother as the most important time, justifying any means to achieve his goals.

Hua Qingge reflected internally that she had only wanted to give him a motive for revenge, never realizing the profound and lasting pain his tragic past would cause. She understood then that there is no hatred or evil without a cause. After descending from the rooftop, a guard approached Hua Qingge to thank her for being with Ji Chu during his lowest moment.

Hua Qingge expressed that she was forced to stay, as Ji Chu held power over life and death. The guard then corrected her, stating Ji Chu was not the bloodthirsty man of rumor and never killed the innocent. Hua Qingge questioned this, recalling rumors that Ji Chu had killed her royal maids and wet nurse. The guard clarified that they had committed suicide to protect her after being interrogated about her whereabouts.

The guard confirmed that Ji Chu never cared about his reputation, which is why he bore the "bloodthirsty" title without explanation. Hua Qingge then realized she might have misjudged Ji Chu and that there was still hope for him. Back at the study, Hua Qingge searched for books to "purify the soul" and alleviate Ji Chu's hatred, describing them as stories promoting truth and kindness. An attendant in the study informed her that such books did not exist.

Realizing she couldn't find or write such a book in time, Hua Qingge had an idea: a "Mindfulness Club" to help Ji Chu through interactive games, role-playing, and inner self-narration for emotional guidance. News then spread that the murderers of the Liu family were to be beheaded that afternoon, with the Crown Prince presiding.

Hua Qingge lamented how the usually fair Ji Yun had seemingly changed, but Ji Wan'er defended her brother, explaining that His Majesty had pressured him, leaving him no choice. Hua Qingge disagreed, believing that one should not compromise their values for the sake of expediency. Hua Qingge then entrusted Ji Wan'er with delivering an invitation to Ji Chu. Reading the "Club invitation card," Ji Chu found it intriguing and accepted, promising to attend on time.

Ji Yun, upon learning of the Mindfulness Club, appeared uninvited, asking why he hadn't received an invitation. Hua Qingge nervously offered an excuse about his busy schedule. He wondered if his handling of the Liu family case had upset her. While she denied it, she reflected internally that she was struggling to accept that someone she admired—her "white moonlight"—was now flawed. She then invited him to join if he wished.

Meanwhile, Ji Wan'er sought out Gong Yeqi, reiterating the club's concept of emotional guidance through games and role-playing. Gong Yeqi found it interesting, remarking it might help Ji Feng's condition. Ji Wan'er, remembering Ji Feng, enthusiastically promised to tell him to attend, urging Gong Yeqi not to forget to come. The Mindfulness Club formally began. Hua Qingge, acting as the "mindfulness counselor Qing," welcomed everyone.

She explained the club aimed for "mindful interactions" and was a "club of love" to help participants open their hearts and foster an optimistic outlook. Gong Yeqi remarked on its profoundness, comparing it to a venerable monk at Lingguang Temple. Ji Feng, however, found it dull, likening it to spiritual cultivation. Hua Qingge offered him leave if he was bored, but Ji Yun interjected, urging everyone to cooperate.

Hua Qingge then instructed everyone to close their eyes, relax, and recall their most cherished memories. Ji Wan'er fondly recalled playing hide-and-seek with her brothers in the royal gardens as children. Ji Yun added details, mentioning Ji Wan'er hiding in bushes and Ji Feng under tables. Ji Wan'er then reminisced about Ji Chu always climbing the tallest rockery, making him impossible to find. Ji Feng, however, felt disconnected, stating he didn't remember those specific games.

He then remarked that the last hide-and-seek game he played with them was "unforgettable," hinting at a painful memory. Ji Wan'er confirmed that they stopped playing after Ji Feng was "startled" that time. Lin Xiyao expressed envy, having grown up without siblings. Gong Yeqi wished he could return to his youth. Ji Yun then suggested they play hide-and-seek again to fulfill Ji Wan'er's wish.

Hua Qingge observed that their "mindfulness session" was working, as recalling childhood memories was a form of healing. As Hua Qingge counted down, everyone scattered to hide. Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao hid together, furthering their connection. Ji Wan'er, recognizing a strategic opportunity, decided to hide with Gong Yeqi.

As Ji Feng found a hiding spot in a familiar place, he suddenly remembered a childhood scene: he overheard Imperial Consort Wei and her servant, after discussing that they "didn't catch them," being informed that demon poison had been placed in Imperial Consort Xian's food. This was the memory connected to the moment Ji Feng had witnessed Imperial Consort Xian seemingly transforming into a demon.

Episode 14 Recap

Ji Feng, still reeling from the shock of Liu Xiang and Imperial Consort Xian turning into demons, was suddenly overcome with a vivid memory that brought everything back to him. Ji Chu, who had been hiding with Hua Qingge, then emerged, revealing that the entire setup was his design, intended to trigger Ji Feng's childhood memories. Ji Feng remembered his mother, Imperial Consort Wei, poisoning Imperial Consort Xian, causing her to transform into a demon on the spot.

He accused Imperial Consort Wei of being the wicked person who poisoned Imperial Consort Xian, turning her into a demon right before his eyes. This trauma, he claimed, had haunted him for years, but now everything had come back to him. Imperial Consort Wei, in turn, defended her actions, asserting that everything she did was for Ji Feng, pointing out Ji Chu's natural intelligence and how he always surpassed Ji Feng.

She argued that if Ji Chu hadn't lost his mother's support and been sent as a hostage to Nanjing, Ji Feng would have been the one to go. Ji Feng vehemently rejected this, stating he would rather be a hostage than have such a wicked mother, expressing his profound disappointment in her. Later, Imperial Consort Wei learned that Hua Qingge, Princess Consort Lv, had hosted a "mindfulness club" the previous night, which allegedly helps people resolve their inner conflicts.

She was told that Prince Qi, Ji Feng, had remembered his past after attending this club. Incensed, Imperial Consort Wei recalled how Princess Consort Lv had publicly ridiculed her at the engagement banquet, and now she dared to target Feng. Though aware of Princess Consort Lv's current stay at Jingzhi Library due to a falling out with Prince Lv, she dismissed it as a mere cover-up, convinced that Prince Lv was involved in Feng's matter.

Determined to retaliate for their audacity in sowing discord between her and her son, Imperial Consort Wei arranged for Hua Qingge to suffer a mishap. The next day, as Hua Qingge and Ji Wan'er were admiring the "The road filled with hibiscus is as beautiful as a pretty girl" on their way to Lingguang Temple, their carriage was suddenly thrown into disarray when the horses were spooked. The coachman urged them to hold on as the carriage lost control.

Ji Chu arrived just in time to save them from a dangerous fall, though both Hua Qingge and Ji Wan'er sustained injuries. Back at home, as Hua Qingge treated her wounds, she initially suspected the attack was aimed at Ji Wan'er. However, Ji Chu believed it might have been an attempt on Hua Qingge's life, advising her to be careful. Hua Qingge, observing Ji Chu, wondered if the devil was changing his ways, as he seemed genuinely concerned.

Hua Qingge, upon hearing that Ji Wan'er's condition was worsening, went to check on her. Ji Wan'er was dramatically pretending to be gravely ill, covered in thick blankets and shivering, to elicit sympathy from Gong Yeqi. Her maid confirmed that Ji Wan'er had refused to see any other physician. When Gong Yeqi still didn't arrive, Ji Wan'er, feigning extreme weakness, had Hua Qingge help her to Gong Yeqi's residence.

There, Gong Yeqi quickly assessed that Ji Wan'er's symptoms were merely due to shock and an unsettled mind, not a serious illness. Despite his diagnosis, Ji Wan'er clung to her act, complaining of discomfort and even questioning his medical skills, calling him a quack. At that moment, a villager burst in, pleading for Gong Yeqi to save his younger brother, Gang, who was experiencing violent fits after eating horse meat.

Gong Yeqi examined Gang and identified the poison as "Mind Confusing," found in a poisonous herb, which caused violent madness when stimulated. He warned that Gang was lucky not to have been deeply poisoned, or even the gods couldn't save him. Hua Qingge, recalling Ji Chu's earlier suspicion about their horse being tampered with, connected the dots, wondering if it was the same horse.

Under interrogation by Ji Chu, Gang confessed that someone from the palace had paid him ten taels of silver to intercept an exhausted horse, kill it, and dispose of the body. He admitted to craving the horse meat and cutting a piece for stew, unaware it was poisoned. Ji Chu then concluded that Imperial Consort Wei was behind the incident.

Imperial Consort Wei, meanwhile, was informed that the carriage incident didn't result in any deaths as Prince Lv (Ji Chu) had intervened, but she dismissed it, noting that if someone had died, Ji Chu would have thoroughly investigated. She also heard that Ji Feng was still refusing to see her, further angering her. Hua Qingge reflected on how the palace seemed to be a dead end for her investigation into who was trying to harm her.

She wished she knew the upcoming plot to better navigate the unpredictable events. Later, Ji Wan'er found Hua Qingge writing. After a playful struggle where Ji Wan'er tried to snatch Hua Qingge's "ghostly scribbles," Hua Qingge explained she was merely doing creative writing that hadn't matured yet. Ji Wan'er then excitedly announced she was hosting a banquet and whisked Hua Qingge and Lin Xiyao away to get changed into elaborate attire.

The banquet was ostensibly to thank Gong Yeqi for curing her "shock," but Ji Chu playfully interjected, claiming she should be thanking him instead for saving her. During the meal, Hua Qingge accidentally smudged her mouth. Both Ji Yun and Ji Chu simultaneously offered her their handkerchiefs; Hua Qingge accepted Ji Chu's, while Lin Xiyao took Ji Yun's. Meanwhile, Ji Feng was hesitant to enter the banquet.

His subordinate, confused by Ji Feng's repeated circling of the Jingzhi Library, gently urged him to make a decision. Ji Feng, however, felt that without a proper welcome, attending the banquet would show a lack of sincerity from the host, and so he refused to enter. He decided to go to Rumeng House instead. At the entrance of Rumeng House, Ji Feng encountered his maternal uncle, General Wei.

General Wei scolded Ji Feng for indulging in such a place while his mother, Imperial Consort Wei, was ill because of him. Shocked, Ji Feng learned that his mother had fallen ill. He rushed to Ning'an Palace, but Imperial Consort Wei refused to see him, still angry that he had listened to outsiders and threatened to sever ties with her.

Her maid conveyed a message to Ji Feng: without her and the Wei family's support, he would have no standing in the ruthless palace. Distraught, Ji Feng returned to Rumeng House, dismissing the hostesses and his subordinate, wanting to be alone with his sorrow. At Ji Wan'er's banquet, Hua Qingge suggested they play a "killing game" from her hometown, something new and exciting, rather than a traditional drinking game.

Ji Chu, with a chilling smile, commented that only killing could truly excite him, causing Hua Qingge to lament that her attempts to soften his "devilish" nature had been in vain. After explaining the rules, Hua Qingge, acting as the Judge, distributed roles. When the "darkness" fell, Ji Chu, who was the killer, immediately "killed" Ji Yun, who was the Constable. The game abruptly ended, leaving Ji Yun bewildered about why he couldn't even identify the killer.

Ji Chu simply replied that a reason wasn't needed to kill. Later that night, alone in Rumeng House, Ji Feng, in his drunken state, was suddenly confronted by the ghostly apparition of Lady Wuxue. Terrified, he fled in panic.

Episode 15 Recap

Ji Chu and Ji Yun are urgently summoned to the palace, where they are informed of Prince Qi, Ji Feng's, mysterious disappearance from Rumeng House. Ji Wan'er is distraught with worry, but Hua Qingge quietly reassures her, knowing that Ji Chu orchestrated this event. She understands his intention is to use Ji Feng's disappearance to expose the Wei family's schemes, though she also knows that Ji Feng's life is not truly in danger.

A guard recounts hearing Ji Feng scream "Lady Wuxue, don't catch me" before vanishing, leading him to speculate that Lady Wuxue's spirit took him. Ji Chu, though dismissing the superstition, acknowledges that Ji Feng's disappearance, coupled with other missing men in the city, is suspicious and warrants a thorough investigation.

Imperial Consort Wei argues that Prince Lv, Ji Yun, lacks experience for such an investigation, suggesting Crown Prince Ji Chu is better suited due to his familiarity with the capital and meticulous nature. Surprisingly, Ji Yun agrees, leading the Emperor to task Crown Prince Ji Chu with leading the East Office in the search for Prince Qi and the other missing citizens.

Hua Qingge, feeling a sense of relief that Ji Feng is safe and that the Wei family is facing consequences, finds Crown Prince Ji Chu and Lin Xiyao investigating at Rumeng House. Ji Chu identifies a royal footprint, likely Ji Feng's. Lin Xiyao discovers suspicious white powder on a wine cup and calls Gong Yeqi to analyze it. After a quick examination, Gong Yeqi declares the powder harmless.

Hua Qingge, subtly guiding Lin Xiyao's thoughts, suggests that the substance might be hallucinogenic when combined with other elements. Lin Xiyao, grasping this insight, identifies it as "Drunken Dream," a poison that causes intense hallucinations. This explains why Liu Xu, the guard, heard Ji Feng's screams and imagined Lady Wuxue. Fearing she might reveal too much of her foreknowledge, Hua Qingge quickly makes an excuse and leaves.

Ji Yun meets with Duke Dingguo over a game of weiqi, praising the Duke's strategic prowess and lamenting his current idle position. He subtly encourages the Duke to take a more active role against those who are misleading the Emperor. Ji Yun then unveils his grand plan, asking the Duke to be the one to "finish it." The Duke, impressed, readily agrees to cooperate and do his utmost to "turn the tide."

Meanwhile, Hua Qingge, still searching for clues around Rumeng House, ponders how Ji Feng could have disappeared so silently after jumping from a window. Her thoughts are interrupted when Ji Yun jumps from the same window, startling her. He explains he was demonstrating the jump and laments the lack of cushioning straw on the ground. This sparks Hua Qingge's realization about Ji Feng's mode of transport. Ji Yun then spots distinct carriage marks, confirming the deduction.

He praises Hua Qingge as his "lucky star" for her subtle assistance in uncovering this vital clue: Ji Feng must have landed on hay and been transported away in a carriage. As Hua Qingge considers directly questioning Ji Chu, she overhears a conversation between Ji Chu's subordinate and another man, confirming that once a certain "matter" is complete, no one is to be left alive, an order given by Ji Chu.

Disturbed by this deviation from her novel's plot, where Ji Chu did not kill Ji Feng, Hua Qingge becomes desperate to find Ji Feng quickly. She approaches Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao, who are preparing to investigate the disappearance of people from the black market. Despite their concerns about the danger, Hua Qingge insists on joining them, confident she can be their "lucky star."

The three disguise themselves in tattered clothes, planning to infiltrate a labor transport team to locate Ji Feng. At a labor recruitment site, Hua Qingge cleverly pretends to be blind, which gets her selected as a "blind servant" for a buyer who specifically requested one. Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao discreetly follow to ensure her safety. Before boarding the transport carriage, the laborers are offered water.

Suspecting it contains a sedative, Hua Qingge feigns drinking while avoiding it, then subtly drops "specially scented red beans" along the path as clues for Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao. Simultaneously, Imperial Consort Wei, frantic over Ji Feng's disappearance, disregards her brother's warnings against exposing their hidden spies and orders a full-scale search, using a special token to activate her network.

Ji Chu, receiving intelligence of Imperial Consort Wei's actions, notes with satisfaction that her desperation for her son is playing perfectly into his hands, as he waits for her to fall into his trap. Hua Qingge arrives at a remote site she recognizes as the "weapons camp" from her novel, believing Ji Feng is imprisoned there. Maintaining her blind facade, she confronts the leader who transported her.

She threatens him for his involvement in illicit activities and forces his cooperation by pretending to give him a "10-day intestine-breaking pill," promising the antidote only if he helps her. She is then presented to an official who, pleased with a blind maid who "can't leak any secrets," takes her away. Gong Yeqi informs Ji Chu that Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao are investigating the weapons camp and that Hua Qingge has unexpectedly infiltrated it.

Ji Chu, however, remains unconcerned, believing Hua Qingge merely intends to save Ji Feng and "won't make much of a fuss" to disrupt his larger plans. Meanwhile, Ji Feng endures grueling labor in the camp, bitterly reflecting on his powerlessness. A captor delivers a harsh message, reminding him that without his status as Prince Qi, his mother, Imperial Consort Wei, or the Wei family's backing, he is "as good as nothing" in the cutthroat palace. Alone and miserable, Ji Feng repeatedly calls out for his mother, finally understanding her past warnings.

Episode 16 Recap

Hua Qingge was led into the camp, where she witnessed a soldier kill a working servant. The camp's supervisor, Manager Wang, then tested Hua Qingge, holding a knife to her eyes to see if she was truly blind. Hua Qingge remained still, convincing him, and Manager Wang remarked that it was good she couldn't see, as she would live a long life and fit right in. He instructed that she be given clean clothes and assigned as a personal attendant.

Internally, Hua Qingge longed for Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao to rescue her, finding the place terrifying. Meanwhile, Ji Chu returned, and Gong Yeqi immediately checked his pulse, noting it was erratic. Gong Yeqi admonished Ji Chu not to get upset while taking his medicinal bath and subtly questioned if he was going soft on their plan, to which Ji Chu affirmed he was not.

Gong Yeqi also expressed concern about Ji Chu's health, reminding him not to drink cold tea due to his childhood ailments. Ji Chu, annoyed, asked for hot tea instead. An aide reported that Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao had gone to the weapons camp to investigate, prompting Ji Chu to express his eagerness to see what the Crown Prince would uncover.

Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao, in disguise, made their way into what Ji Yun identified as the Wei family's secret camp. Ji Yun remarked on the cunningness of Ji Chu's plan, noting that Imperial Consort Wei would never expect her precious son, Ji Feng, to be hidden right under their noses. Hua Qingge, whose primary mission was to find Ji Feng, spotted a man who looked like him but was pulled away by a guard.

She was then assigned to Manager Wang, tasked with grinding ink. Hua Qingge observed Manager Wang writing what appeared to be a secret letter but maintained her blind facade, understanding her life depended on it. Back at his residence, Ji Chu was informed that the Wei family had taken action, with a team of spies entering the city. Ji Chu calmly instructed them to stick to the plan.

Elsewhere, Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao continued their investigation, discovering that the weapons being produced were of poor quality, made of inferior iron. Ji Yun expressed his outrage at the potential casualties if Liang’s soldiers used such weapons, concluding that the Wei family was profiting immensely by replacing standard military weapons with their own shoddy products.

When confronted by guards about being in a restricted area, Ji Yun quickly fabricated a story about getting wet while carrying water and drying by the fire. He claimed they were new and unaware of the rules. The guards, unconvinced, ordered them to the supervisor's office for punishment. Hua Qingge, managing to find Ji Feng hiding under a carriage, signaled him to follow her.

Ji Feng, surprised to see her, initially believed Ji Chu had sent her for his rescue, expressing gratitude towards his third brother. Hua Qingge let him believe Prince Lv (Ji Chu) sent her, noting Ji Chu often spoke with a forked tongue. Ji Feng, reflecting on his time in captivity, admitted he had learned a lot from his ordeal and regretted not treating Ji Chu better in the past. Hua Qingge congratulated him on his maturity.

Ji Feng, eager for immediate action, then suggested sending a signal for Ji Chu’s troops to level the camp. Hua Qingge had to break the news that she was the only one who had infiltrated the camp. To escape, Hua Qingge proposed they hide in swill buckets, which were transported out of the camp daily at 1 AM. Ji Feng was appalled at the idea of such a disgrace, but Hua Qingge pressed him on whether he intended to stay.

Once inside the buckets, Ji Feng found the smell unbearable, fearing they would be discovered. Hua Qingge, prioritizing their survival, knocked Ji Feng unconscious. Later, Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao were ordered to fetch swill from the restaurant kitchen for the laborers. Hua Qingge, from within her bucket on a different cart, recognized them and was overjoyed. But as her cart was being moved, a guard discovered her and Ji Feng, leading to their capture.

Seeing Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao nearby, Hua Qingge desperately urged them to save their strength and return later. Ji Yun, seizing the opportunity, declared to the guards that the Wei family’s power was fading and offered them a chance to live under Prince Lv’s protection if they surrendered. After they were captured, Hua Qingge lamented her misfortune, having failed to save Ji Feng and now putting her own life at risk.

Ji Feng, regaining consciousness, complained about Hua Qingge's attack, accusing her of causing him further suffering. Hua Qingge sadly remarked that her escape skills were now useless. Meanwhile, the Duke, acting on Ji Chu's instructions, secretly informed His Majesty that Prince Qi was imprisoned in Wei Zhao’s secret camp. His Majesty was shocked and enraged to learn that Wei Zhao, Ji Feng’s uncle, was holding him hostage with the intent to rebel.

The Duke presented solid evidence of Wei Zhao’s private weapon manufacturing and soldier training, further revealing that the Crown Prince, Ji Yun, was also investigating at the Wei family’s weapons camp. The Duke urged His Majesty to act quickly to rescue both princes. Ji Chu received another report confirming that all Wei family spies had been controlled and the Duke had secured His Majesty’s trust.

When asked if they should proceed with the siege, Ji Chu advised patience, wanting to wait until the Wei family was truly desperate. General Wei, having discovered his spies were missing, confronted his sister, Imperial Consort Wei, for acting rashly. He realized they had fallen into a trap.

To cover their tracks, General Wei ordered the camp sealed, with no one entering or leaving, and stated his intention to return to the military camp to erase all traces, implying a mass extermination to leave no witnesses. When Ji Chu was informed that Hua Qingge had also been captured while trying to save Ji Feng, he was unexpectedly perturbed. He declared his intention to rescue Hua Qingge, as she was "his woman."

Gong Yeqi, alarmed, tried to dissuade Ji Chu, arguing that acting prematurely would jeopardize their long-term revenge plan against the Wei family. He questioned if Hua Qingge was worth sacrificing their years of meticulous planning, even reminding Ji Chu that she was supposedly his wife, though adding that she was "supposed to die." Ji Chu pushed past Gong Yeqi, stating he knew what he was doing.

Gong Yeqi, hurt by Ji Chu's actions, felt his brotherhood was disregarded for the woman. Imprisoned with Ji Feng, Hua Qingge tried to use him as a foothold to escape, but with his injured foot, Ji Feng complained about the indignity of being stepped on. Hua Qingge reminded him that everyone was equal in the face of death and they needed to find a way to escape.

Ji Feng continued to lament his broken foot, but Hua Qingge simply stated she was still alive. In a parallel effort, Lin Xiyao disguised herself and delivered preserved fruit, laced with laxatives, to the guards, hoping they would eat it and create an opportunity to enter the prison and rescue them. Ji Yun questioned her foresight, but Lin Xiyao admitted she wasn't certain, simply taking a chance given the guards' harsh conditions.

Episode 17 Recap

Two soldiers collapsed with severe stomach pain after consuming their meal. Lin Xiyao and Ji Yun seized this opportunity to infiltrate the camp, believing that finding a blueprint would reveal the prison's location. Lin Xiyao discovered a roster of camp soldiers, which led them to realize that the Wei family was not merely engaging in illicit firearms manufacturing but was likely also raising a private army, suggesting an intent to rebel. They understood, however, that more evidence was needed.

Just then, General Wei arrived with his subordinates, issuing orders for all personnel in the military camp to be immediately eliminated and all weapons to be buried on-site. He emphasized the grave importance of this matter and stated he would personally oversee it. After General Wei departed, Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao emerged from their hiding place, realizing that General Wei's order to silence everyone meant Hua Qingge and Ji Feng were in grave danger.

Meanwhile, Hua Qingge and Ji Feng were imprisoned. Ji Feng expressed his despair, believing there was no hope for them. Hua Qingge tried to reassure him, saying his brothers would surely come to their rescue. Ji Feng, buoyed by her words, vowed that if he were to return safely, he would make amends to them. Hua Qingge then asked Ji Feng to keep watch while she attempted to pick the lock of their cell door with her hairpin.

However, their escape attempt was discovered. The guard also realized that Hua Qingge's blindness was an act. Just as they believed their end was near, Ji Yun arrived, quickly followed by Lin Xiyao. Lin Xiyao explained that they had followed the clues Hua Qingge left to locate the prison. As they tried to leave, Hua Qingge, while enthusiastically praising Lin Xiyao, accidentally stumbled and sprained her foot. Ji Yun immediately carried her on his back to escape.

With the guards in pursuit, they split up to draw the pursuers away. Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao diverted the bulk of the troops, while Hua Qingge and Ji Feng fled in another direction. Hua Qingge and Ji Feng had not gone far when Hua Qingge inconveniently needed to relieve herself, much to Ji Feng’s annoyance.

Unbeknownst to them, General Wei received news that the camp had been surrounded by official troops and that all personnel had been dealt with, except for two escapees who were being actively pursued. He wondered who could have arrived so swiftly. At the same time, Ji Chu finally located Ji Feng, but a black-clad assailant suddenly appeared and stabbed Ji Feng. Ji Chu immediately engaged in a struggle with the attacker.

With his last breaths, Ji Feng, spitting blood, told Ji Chu that he had always believed Ji Chu would come to his rescue and was glad he did. He then confessed that his own mother was responsible for the death of Imperial Consort Xian and wished to use his life to atone for her sins, before succumbing to his injuries. Hua Qingge returned from relieving herself to find Ji Chu standing over Ji Feng’s lifeless body.

Believing Ji Chu had murdered Ji Feng, she screamed at him. Before Ji Chu could offer any explanation, the pursuing troops closed in, forcing him to grab Hua Qingge and flee. On the other side, Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao were also surrounded by black-clad figures. Lin Xiyao sustained an injury while protecting Ji Yun. Fortunately, reinforcements arrived in time.

Ji Yun instructed his subordinates to take the injured Lin Xiyao back for treatment while he went to rescue Hua Qingge and Ji Feng. Ji Chu reached a safe area and gently placed Hua Qingge down. He reset her dislocated foot, but Hua Qingge continued to resist and accuse him of being a murderer. Their respite was short-lived as more soldiers quickly caught up to them. Ji Yun, meanwhile, discovered Ji Feng's lifeless body.

Overwhelmed with grief, he noticed Ji Chu’s distinctive mark on the dagger used to kill Ji Feng, leading him to believe Ji Chu was the killer. Ji Chu and Hua Qingge were cornered at the edge of a cliff by General Wei. General Wei taunted them, saying they had nowhere left to run and ordered them to accept their fate. Ji Chu confronted General Wei, whose name is Wei Zhao, asking if he was rebelling.

Wei Zhao defiantly declared that even if he were to die, he would take a prince down with him. Without hesitation, Ji Chu leaped from the cliff, taking Hua Qingge with him. Ji Yun arrived at the cliff's edge, witnessing the desperate jump. General Wei, in a suicidal rage, ordered his soldiers to attack Ji Yun. At the critical moment, the Duke arrived, saving Ji Yun.

Ji Yun entrusted the situation to the Duke and rushed down the cliff to search for Ji Chu and Hua Qingge. The leader of the black-clad figures, fearing his identity had been exposed, ordered his subordinates to pursue Ji Chu down the cliff and ensure his death. Hua Qingge regained consciousness to find herself lying on top of an unconscious Ji Chu. She saw the black-clad figures closing in and, despite his heavy weight, bravely carried Ji Chu away.

She found a secluded thatched hut where she hid him. When Ji Chu finally awoke, he realized Hua Qingge had saved him. However, still convinced he had killed Ji Feng, Hua Qingge tied his hands, insisting he confess the truth and face the law. Ji Chu attempted to explain, but Hua Qingge remained steadfast. He then began to feel intensely hot, prompting Hua Qingge to suspect a wound infection causing a fever.

Remembering some knowledge of traditional Chinese medicine from her novel writing, she ventured out to find herbs. While trying to leave clues for potential rescuers, she was discovered by the black-clad figures. They demanded to know Ji Chu's whereabouts. Hua Qingge, feigning compliance, drew a map that purposely led them on a circuitous route through a bamboo forest, buying valuable time. Unbeknownst to her, Gong Yeqi had been observing the scene.

He subdued the black-clad figures and went to rescue Ji Chu. Gong Yeqi eventually located Ji Chu and administered medicine to him, preparing to take him away. Gong Yeqi then informed Ji Chu that Hua Qingge had betrayed him. However, Ji Chu sensed something was amiss with this revelation and immediately inquired about Hua Qingge's true location.

Episode 18 Recap

Ji Yun tirelessly searched, dismissing his subordinate's pleas for him to rest, insisting he was fine. He discovered a peculiar mark and believed it was left by Hua Qingge, immediately dispatching his men to find it while he continued his own search. Meanwhile, Hua Qingge, who had managed to cut through her restraints, feigned needing to relieve herself to create an opportunity. She then seized a large stone and struck her captor.

At this critical moment, Ji Chu arrived and rescued her. He instructed his men to keep the remaining captors alive. Hua Qingge, barely able to stand, told Ji Chu that these attackers did not resemble General Wei's men and had been pursuing them since they fell off the cliff. Ji Yun then appeared, questioning Hua Qingge if she was revealing Ji Chu's whereabouts.

Hua Qingge clarified that she was merely buying time, having drawn misleading maps to send them in circles. Hua Qingge suddenly began to suffer intense pain. Ji Yun asked what was wrong, and Gong Yeqi confirmed that the blade was poisoned and required immediate detoxification. Ji Yun then turned to Ji Chu, accusing him of both killing Ji Feng and attempting to harm Hua Qingge. Ji Chu asserted that Ji Yun was jumping to conclusions without listening to his explanation.

Without a second thought, Ji Chu began to suck the poison from Hua Qingge's neck wound, even as Gong Yeqi warned him of the danger. Gong Yeqi then informed them that the poison had gone too deep, but he would use an herbal concoction to protect her heart. He quickly brought the medicine, emphasizing that Hua Qingge needed to drink it without delay, as further spread of the poison would make her unsavable.

Ji Chu took the concoction and personally administered it to Hua Qingge. Overwhelmed by the toxins he had absorbed, Ji Chu then collapsed. Gong Yeqi told Ji Yun that Ji Chu needed to rest and that he would prepare a separate concoction for him. Upon regaining consciousness, Ji Chu's first concern was Hua Qingge's condition. Gong Yeqi chastised him for neglecting his own well-being, especially with his pre-existing wound worsening and now the additional poison.

Gong Yeqi explained that in their remote location, simply keeping Hua Qingge alive was fortunate enough. Ji Chu immediately ordered their return to Mystic Medicine House, disregarding Gong Yeqi's warning that his body couldn't endure the journey. Ji Chu reaffirmed his authority to his subordinate, Xiao Yan, who pledged to obey. At the palace, Ji Wan'er was devastated to learn of Ji Feng's assassination.

She anxiously inquired about Ji Yun and Hua Qingge, being informed that Ji Yun was unharmed but Hua Qingge was critically poisoned and remained unconscious. Imperial Consort Wei was inconsolable, blaming herself for denying Ji Feng entry, which she believed led to his death. Ji Yun presented her with the dagger found on Ji Feng's body, which bore the distinct "Chu" engraving. Enraged, Imperial Consort Wei vowed to make Ji Chu "pay with his blood."

However, she was then informed that the Wei family was accused of treason for illegally manufacturing weapons, and she was ordered to return to Ning'an Palace to await His Majesty's judgment. Despite her protests, she was escorted away by Fang Cheng and guards. Hua Qingge eventually awoke at Mystic Medicine House, bewildered to find herself still in the "ancient times" instead of having returned to her modern era.

Lin Xiyao, who was with her, assured her they were in Mystic Medicine House and asked about her comfort. Hua Qingge then inquired about Ji Yun and Ji Chu. Ji Yun, now with a new hairstyle, reported to His Majesty, accepting responsibility for not protecting Ji Feng. His Majesty, however, absolved him, acknowledging his efforts. The Emperor demanded to know who dared to assassinate a royal offspring.

Ji Yun disclosed that the fatal dagger found on Ji Feng bore Ji Chu's mark, suggesting Ji Chu's involvement. Ji Chu then entered, openly stating his involvement in the matter. When His Majesty pressed him for clarification, Ji Chu explained that he was a witness to Ji Feng's murder. He then questioned the logic of leaving his distinct dagger at the crime scene, suggesting it was an obvious setup.

He further stated that the entire incident, from Ji Feng's capture to his death, was suspicious, and he suspected someone was trying to frame him to gain advantage. Ji Yun, in turn, questioned if Ji Chu was suspecting him. His Majesty, weary of their bickering, ordered them to cease, declaring the matter required further investigation. Ji Yun pledged to find the true culprit and avenge Ji Feng, while Ji Chu vowed to prove his innocence.

Imperial Consort Wei then burst into the hall, defying her confinement. She accused Ji Chu of hypocrisy, claiming he murdered Ji Feng to avenge Imperial Concubine Xian and dismantle the Wei family, urging His Majesty not to believe him. Ji Chu retorted that if His Majesty chose to believe a "rebel from the Wei family" over him, his explanations would be futile.

His Majesty, enraged, condemned the Wei family's "heinous acts of treason," asserting that their actions led to Ji Feng's demise. He stripped Imperial Consort Wei of her title and ordered her permanent confinement to the West Court. She continued to scream accusations against Ji Chu as she was led away.

His Majesty then addressed Ji Chu, expressing his desire to believe him despite his grief, and commanded both Ji Yun and Ji Chu to work together to uncover the true killer. As Ji Yun and Ji Chu were dismissed, the Duke arrived. Ji Yun expressed his hope that Ji Chu was innocent, while Ji Chu affirmed his resolve to find the truth and clear his name.

Ji Yun requested that Ji Chu hand over the captured assailant for questioning, but Ji Chu refused, stating they should each pursue their investigations independently. Gong Yeqi, observing Ji Chu's condition, urged him to rest instead of pushing himself. Ji Chu dismissed his concerns and ordered their return to Mystic Medicine House.

The Duke then presented His Majesty with a detailed list of evidence regarding Wei Zhao's illegal manufacturing of weapons, raising of private armies, imprisonment of citizens, and mass killings. Enraged, His Majesty decreed that Wei Zhao's entire clan of nine generations be executed, but out of consideration for Imperial Consort Wei's loss, she would be spared death and confined to the West Court for life. The Duke was rewarded for his loyalty by being put in charge of military matters.

Back at Mystic Medicine House, Ji Chu inquired about Hua Qingge's whereabouts. Gong Yeqi noted Ji Chu's deep concern for her despite his own injuries and even his changed appearance. He informed Ji Chu that Hua Qingge's poison had been successfully cleared, she was fine, and had already left after waking up. Ji Chu immediately asked where she had gone.

Gong Yeqi then insisted on treating Ji Chu's wound, which had festered and required the painful process of scraping off the rotting flesh. He chastised Ji Chu for his stubbornness. Meanwhile, Hua Qingge and Lin Xiyao were preparing to visit Ji Feng's funeral. Ji Yun joined them, stating he also wished to pay his last respects to his brother.

Hua Qingge clarified to Ji Yun that Ji Chu had already informed His Majesty that he was not responsible for Ji Feng's death, and the Emperor had seemingly accepted it. She offered to provide her testimony as an eyewitness. Ji Yun, however, stated that he and Ji Chu were jointly investigating the matter and would require her and Coroner Lin's assistance later. He vowed to bring the murderer to justice, a sentiment echoed by Lin Xiyao.

At Ji Feng's coffin, Ji Wan'er was overcome with grief, expressing her sorrow at reuniting with her brother only to find him deceased. Hua Qingge comforted her. Ji Wan'er tearfully spoke of Ji Feng's outwardly decadent but inwardly kind nature and desperately asked who had killed him. Hua Qingge promised that the true killer would be found. Ji Yun then asked Coroner Lin to conduct another thorough examination of the body.

Hua Qingge encouraged Ji Wan'er to rest, but the princess claimed she would not be able to sleep at home. Gong Yeqi approached Hua Qingge, playfully teasing her about being his "wandering patient." Hua Qingge thanked him for saving her life. Gong Yeqi, however, retorted that he only intervened for Ji Chu's sake. Hua Qingge asked Ji Wan'er to leave them, as she needed to speak with Gong Yeqi privately.

Gong Yeqi confronted Hua Qingge, questioning how she and Ji Chu could appear there without any guilt after their "actions." Hua Qingge challenged him, asking if he had personally witnessed Ji Chu kill Ji Feng, or if he was simply making assumptions based on the dagger and his pre-existing biases. Gong Yeqi then revealed that Ji Chu had gone to the weapons camp specifically to save Hua Qingge, where he was ambushed and injured.

He further disclosed that Ji Chu had personally sucked the poison from her wound, which was the only reason she was still alive. Shocked, Hua Qingge asked if his words were true. Gong Yeqi scoffed, telling her it was her choice to believe him, and announced his departure. As he left, he tossed her a "rejuvenating elixir," stating it was from Ji Chu, but lamented giving such a valuable medicine to a "heartless soul" like her. Hua Qingge pondered if she had gravely misunderstood Ji Chu and if Ji Feng's death was not his doing, a plot twist that was entirely absent from her novel.

Episode 19 Recap

Ji Chu met with the Duke, discussing their plans to uncover the true mastermind behind the attempts to frame Ji Chu. Ji Chu suspected that the person intending to incriminate him had become aware of his actions and was planning to retaliate. He ruled out the Crown Prince as a suspect, wondering who else it could be.

The Duke recounted how he had ensured Wei Zhao was killed on the spot, making him a silent suspect in Prince Qi's imprisonment, which temporarily eased His Majesty's suspicion of Ji Chu. However, both acknowledged that this was only a temporary measure, and a lasting resolution required finding Prince Qi's true murderer. Meanwhile, Lin Xiyao was examining Ji Feng's body.

She noted that Ji Feng had been fatally stabbed in the heart but had not died instantly, showing signs of struggle. She discovered fragments of cloth and skin tissues under his fingernails, indicating he had likely scratched the murderer's arm during the altercation. Lin Xiyao decided to continue the autopsy, hoping to unearth more clues to quickly identify and apprehend the killer. Ji Chu visited Ji Feng's former residence, reflecting on his brother.

He recalled how Ji Feng had always followed him since childhood but had stopped addressing him as "Second Brother" after returning from the southern border, a lingering regret. Ji Wan'er was deeply saddened by Ji Feng's death, and Hua Qingge stayed with her, encouraging her to venture outside to lift her spirits. Hua Qingge gently urged Ji Wan'er to remain strong and live a good life in memory of Ji Feng. Ji Wan'er agreed.

Hua Qingge then asked Ji Wan'er about Ji Chu's character. Ji Wan'er described Ji Chu as being like a hedgehog – outwardly daunting and distant, but possessing a soft heart that he deliberately concealed, silently enduring his suffering and emotional burdens. She also noted his deep affection for others, which he struggled to express. While acknowledging the significant distance that had grown between Ji Chu and Ji Feng, Ji Wan'er maintained that a brotherly bond still existed.

She openly stated her awareness that Hua Qingge suspected Ji Chu in Feng's death but firmly believed Ji Chu would never harm his own brother. Hua Qingge conceded her initial suspicion, having witnessed Ji Feng's death in Ji Chu's presence, but admitted that the lack of information about the full event left many unanswered questions.

Ji Wan'er further pointed out that Ji Chu's intelligence would have allowed him a hundred ways to escape suspicion if he had intended to kill Ji Feng. Hua Qingge agreed with this reasoning, now puzzled about the true identity of the various enemies plotting against Ji Chu. Ji Chu was still diligently working to find Ji Feng's murderer. He informed a subordinate that the captured black-clad assassin had not yet confessed.

Hua Qingge then appeared, offering her assistance in investigating Ji Feng's case. Though Ji Chu feigned indifference, he was secretly pleased by her offer. Hua Qingge took over the interrogation, using psychological tactics. She brought up the assassin's fear of snakes, successfully coaxing him to speak. She then offered him a quick death if he truthfully answered her questions with "yes" or "no." The assassin admitted to being an assassin, not fearing death, and confirming he killed Ji Feng.

Hua Qingge then questioned why they would first frame Ji Chu and then attempt to kill him. Ji Chu explained that he had seen a distinctive tattoo on the assassin, which was so crucial to them that it changed their plan from merely implicating him to silencing him entirely. Hua Qingge realized the tattoo's significance and noted that the assassins' masks indicated their identity might be known to them.

As Hua Qingge and Ji Chu were walking, they encountered Ji Yun. Ji Yun informed them that Ji Feng's murderer had scratch marks on their arm and asked Ji Chu to allow an examination. Ji Chu initially refused, but Hua Qingge, wanting to clear his name, pulled up his sleeve to reveal his arm. Ji Yun saw numerous old scars on Ji Chu's arm, realizing he was not the killer.

Hua Qingge confirmed that Ji Chu was innocent, explaining that the captured assassin had confessed, though the mastermind remained unidentified. Ji Yun apologized for his earlier suspicions, and Ji Chu simply responded that he was accustomed to such treatment. Hua Qingge observed the many old scars on Ji Chu's arm, reflecting on the considerable suffering he must have endured over the years.

Meanwhile, Imperial Consort Wei was in a state of profound grief and delusion in Changhan Palace, continuously calling out for her son, Feng. She rejected all medicine, claiming she was not ill, and demanded to see her maidservant Wushuang or His Majesty. When an attendant tried to administer medicine, Imperial Consort Wei accused Ji Chu of sending the attendant to harm her. She repeatedly tried to rush out of her confinement, shouting that she needed to see His Majesty.

Later, Ji Chu, Ji Yun, and Hua Qingge visited the Empress. The Empress expressed her relief and comfort at seeing them all well after Ji Feng's tragic passing. She offered them pastries she had personally made. Ji Yun offered a pastry to Hua Qingge, but Ji Chu intervened, stating that Hua Qingge was recuperating and should avoid sweets.

To diffuse the awkwardness, the Empress announced her intention to host a tea party soon to find a suitable Crown Princess for Ji Yun, inviting Hua Qingge to help with the selection. Ji Yun expressed no urgency, but the Empress insisted, believing that an engagement would bring blessings to the royal family during their recent misfortunes.

During this visit, Imperial Consort Wei burst into the room, attempting to assassinate Ji Chu, screaming his name and vowing to kill him for Feng's death. Guards quickly restrained her. The Empress, ensuring Ji Chu was unharmed, sternly rebuked Imperial Consort Wei, reminding her that attempting to harm a prince was a capital offense and that she could no longer be protected. Imperial Consort Wei continued to rant about Ji Chu killing Feng.

The Empress ordered her removal, stating she would report the incident to His Majesty for his decision. Ji Yun remarked that Imperial Consort Wei seemed to have lost her sanity, and the Empress sadly concluded that His Majesty would likely not spare her, regardless of her mental state. Back in Changhan Palace, Imperial Consort Wei was still refusing the poisoned wine offered to her, clinging to the belief that she could not die because her son, Feng, needed his mother.

Ji Chu entered, dismissed the attendants, and approached her. Recalling Ji Feng's dying wish to spare their mother's life, Ji Chu informed Imperial Consort Wei that he had requested His Majesty to spare her life. He then pronounced her sentence: she would be confined to Changhan Palace for the rest of her days, never to leave. Ji Chu later spoke with Gong Yeqi, expressing his profound sense of liberation now that his long-planned revenge had been achieved.

Gong Yeqi, whose family name was Su and whose family had also been destroyed by the Wei family fifteen years prior due to the "Demon Poison," affirmed that this outcome was also his revenge. He vowed to eventually seek justice for the Su family and clear their name.

He lamented that his once prestigious medical family, bustling with talent, was reduced to just him living under an assumed name, with over a hundred family members unjustly killed due to the vicious Wei family's selfishness. He stressed that the Wei family could never truly compensate for such a loss and emphasized the critical importance of preventing the "Demon Poison" from ever reappearing to wreak havoc.

Ji Chu countered Gong Yeqi's somber outlook, stating that the most demonic thing was a chaotic world, and the most evil was the human heart itself. He declared his resolve to eliminate any obstacles and carve out a path for his own survival. Gong Yeqi confessed that he no longer envisioned a carefree life as a nomadic physician after his revenge, acknowledging his limitations as a physician who could neither resurrect the dead nor change the world.

Ji Chu then outlined his next objective: to find the true murderer of Ji Feng and the one who framed him, as that person remained a dangerous threat. He also declared his intention to keep Hua Qingge by his side, desiring both her presence and her heart. Gong Yeqi questioned whether he could truly win her heart, noting her elusive nature. Despite this, they toasted to their shared vengeance.

Later, Ji Wan'er confronted Hua Qingge, having shrewdly deduced her true identity as Hua Qingge from the Empress's unusually warm demeanor towards her. Hua Qingge attempted to deny it, but Ji Wan'er was too perceptive. Hua Qingge then jokingly called Ji Wan'er "the most intelligent character in my story," quickly correcting herself to "the most intelligent princess in the royal family."

Ji Wan'er accused her of deception, expressing that she had always considered Hua Qingge her best friend, only to discover she was her third sister-in-law. Hua Qingge insisted on maintaining their friendship, preferring not to be called her sister-in-law. Ji Wan'er also suspected that Ji Chu must have known Hua Qingge's true identity for a long time. Hua Qingge admitted her situation was complicated, being both Hua Qingge and not Hua Qingge.

Ji Wan'er then revealed she had initially thought Hua Qingge held affections for Ji Yun. Hua Qingge vehemently denied this, stating that Lin Xiyao was Ji Yun's destined partner. Around the same time, Gong Yeqi was observed repeatedly passing by Ji Wan'er's study, feigning a casual stroll. Ji Wan'er noticed him and directly asked if he had come specifically for her. He denied it, claiming he was searching for a particular medical book.

Ji Wan'er, knowledgeable in medicine, listed several basic medical texts like "Herbs Compendium," "Shennong Materia Medica," and "Injury and Illness Manual," subtly implying that such rudimentary books would not be of interest to someone with his advanced medical skills. She then directly called him out for lying, a fact he tacitly admitted by his silence.

Episode 20 Recap

Hua Qingge and Ji Chu continued to examine the tattoo found on the black-clad assailant. Ji Chu speculated it might be a totem or a religious symbol, but Hua Qingge found it more plausible that it was the emblem of a mysterious organization, vaguely attributing her knowledge to "movies." Both realized that anyone bearing this tattoo must be part of the same faction, and Ji Chu immediately ordered a secret city-wide search for individuals with the distinct mark.

Gong Yeqi visited Ji Wan'er to retrieve some medical books, promising to send more if she finished them. While he was there, Young Master Chen approached Ji Wan'er, attempting to woo her with a new poem. Gong Yeqi subtly intervened by diagnosing Young Master Chen with severe symptoms of kidney deficiency, advising him to exercise restraint and seek treatment at Mystic Medicine House. Embarrassed, Young Master Chen quickly excused himself.

Ji Wan'er teasingly remarked on Gong Yeqi's mean behavior, clearly sensing his jealousy. Secretary Du informed Lin Xiyao that he would be writing dossiers for her for the last time, surprising her. She tried to help him with the documents and accidentally burned his arm. She offered to take him to a clinic, but he insisted on bandaging it himself.

Meanwhile, Ji Chu learned of Secretary Du's imminent departure, which Hua Qingge found regrettable, describing Du as "adorable," much to Ji Chu's slight jealousy. Ji Chu then suspected a mole might be among them and ordered everyone in the East Office to gather and show their arms, fearing a potential killer might be using resignation to escape. When Secretary Du arrived, his arm was bandaged, and Lin Xiyao quickly explained that she had accidentally burned him.

Suddenly, one of the assembled men attempted to flee, confirming he was the mole. Ji Chu's men apprehended him. The mole, bearing the tattoo on his right shoulder and a scratch on his left hand (matching the description of Prince Qi's killer), refused to reveal his organization or his motives, prompting Ji Chu to order a severe interrogation. Hua Qingge realized that "danger is everywhere" and that "we can't trust the people around us," with the exception of Lin Xiyao.

Lin Xiyao pleaded with Ji Chu not to make things difficult for Secretary Du, vouching for his diligent service. Ji Chu assured her he was merely being paranoid, confirmed Du's resignation had been approved, and allowed him to leave in peace. Secretary Du expressed his gratitude to both Ji Chu and Hua Qingge. Ji Chu, asserting that Hua Qingge knew him best, then proposed a permanent solution to their charade as husband and wife: "making it real."

Hua Qingge, though feigning disinterest and accusing him of talking nonsense, privately acknowledged his charm, believing only she could "handle" such an arch-villain. She had not yet revealed her true identity to Ji Chu, but he already harbored suspicions about her. After leaving the East Office, Ji Chu offered to take Hua Qingge to the market.

She declined, explaining she had an important appointment with Ji Wan'er and Lin Xiyao for the Moon Worship Festival, which was meant to be a day for lovers to confess their feelings and find lasting happiness. She revealed her plan to discreetly arrange for Lin Xiyao and Ji Yun to fall in love. Although initially annoyed, Ji Chu agreed to let her lead, reminding her of her public identity as Princess Consort Lv.

As they strolled through the bustling market, Hua Qingge was overjoyed and urged Ji Chu to hurry to meet Ji Wan'er. Ji Yun, witnessing Hua Qingge pulling Ji Chu's hand, felt a pang of sadness. Secretary Du, who was with Ji Yun, remarked that "sometimes, it's a blessing not to get what you want," implying a shared understanding of unrequited love. Lin Xiyao found herself lost in the bustling market.

The Duke encountered her and learned of her poor sense of direction, a trait that reminded him of his late wife. He also recalled Lin Xiyao's mother, who suffered from the same "problem," leading him to wonder if Lin Xiyao could be his long-lost daughter. Meanwhile, Ji Wan'er and Gong Yeqi were invited to participate in a couples' game.

Ji Wan'er mentioned she was naturally cold and feared the cold, to which Gong Yeqi playfully responded that such a statement made doctors feel bad. In the game, participants had to identify their partner's hand behind a screen. Out of five couples, only Ji Wan'er and Gong Yeqi correctly identified each other. They received a pair of jade pendants as a "crescent prize." Ji Wan'er asked how he recognized her hand.

Gong Yeqi explained that he remembered her hand shape from when he took her pulse, and also noted her fingers carried the unique scent of books from her constant reading. Shortly after speaking with Ji Yun, Secretary Du noticed a child sitting on the ground as a signboard was about to fall. He quickly dashed forward, sweeping the child to safety.

Gong Yeqi, who arrived on the scene, immediately examined the child and diagnosed epilepsy caused by seizures, swiftly curing him and impressing onlookers. Amidst the commotion, Secretary Du subtly took his leave. Ji Yun, witnessing Du's exceptional agility, was puzzled by how a civil official possessed such impressive martial arts skills. Soon after, Hua Qingge, Ji Chu, and Lin Xiyao also arrived, with Ji Chu teasing Lin Xiyao about getting lost again, and Hua Qingge asking for Ji Wan'er's whereabouts.

Ji Wan'er was abducted by a man who forcibly declared his intention to marry her after the moon worship ceremony. Fortunately, Gong Yeqi arrived in time, swiftly incapacitating the man with a "Beg to Die needle," which would inflict unbearable pain. A relieved Ji Wan'er tearfully embraced Gong Yeqi, expressing her certainty that he would come to her rescue. Gong Yeqi, though returning her embrace, hesitated, recalling the deep-seated blood feud between the royal family and his Su family.

He tried to maintain distance, citing their incompatible statuses as the reason he couldn't look at her. Ji Wan'er, however, declared her willingness to abandon her princess identity to be with him. She then playfully, as Hua Qingge taught her, declared her heart was wounded and vowed that Gong Yeqi would have to "take care of her forever," clinging to him. Moved, Gong Yeqi decided that since his family's revenge was achieved, he could finally follow his heart.

He then embraced her fully and carried her back. Ji Chu witnessed Gong Yeqi carrying Ji Wan'er. Hua Qingge lamented internally that her "plot had gone wrong," as her plan to bring Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao together had failed, while Ji Wan'er and Gong Yeqi's relationship had unexpectedly accelerated. Ji Wan'er happily announced to Ji Chu that she and Gong Yeqi had decided to be together.

Ji Chu voiced his disapproval, stating that because he knew them both, they were not a good fit. Ji Wan'er retorted that it wasn't his decision to make. Ji Chu then questioned Gong Yeqi if he could truly "let go" of his past grievances, to which Gong Yeqi responded he would "give it a shot for Wan'er." Ji Chu, still skeptical, declared that their relationship wouldn't end well.

Ji Wan'er, however, firmly stated that "no matter what happens, he's the only one I want to be with." Ji Chu then turned to Hua Qingge, asking if she had "watched enough," and challenged her to give the couple a chance since Gong Yeqi was willing to set aside his hatred. He then set a condition: he would agree to their relationship if Hua Qingge moved back to the Prince Lv Residence.

Though Hua Qingge found his demand unreasonable, she reluctantly agreed for Ji Wan'er's happiness, privately realizing she had been tricked and wondering if he still intended to kill her. Upon her return to the residence, Ji Chu welcomed her, declaring her the mistress and giving her free rein over arrangements. He also assigned Mo Yu as her personal attendant, which Hua Qingge suspected was more for surveillance than service.

Ji Chu promised to return to spend time with her after finishing his duties at the East Office. Later, the Duke saw Lin Xiyao at a street-side wonton stall and greeted her. He noted that her preference for spicy food and wontons was strikingly similar to his lost daughter's, further deepening his suspicion that she might be his child.

Back at the East Office, Ji Chu investigated Secretary Du's handwriting from twenty years ago, discovering a significant difference from his current elegant and smooth style, raising his suspicions. Ji Yun arrived and confirmed Secretary Du's impressive martial arts skills, which he had witnessed earlier. Ji Chu concluded that the confessed killer was likely a scapegoat and decided to monitor Secretary Du discreetly to draw out the real mastermind.

Ji Yun affirmed his commitment to investigating the case with Ji Chu, especially given Prince Qi's death, while Ji Chu sarcastically remarked that Ji Yun's lack of suspicion towards him was already a great help. Ji Chu was informed that Secretary Du had completed his handover but had not yet left the city, prompting him to issue orders for secret surveillance.

Episode 21 Recap

Hua Qingge finally managed to get rid of Mo Yu, the personal maid Ji Chu had assigned to her. She had initially suspected Mo Yu was a veteran assassin sent by Ji Chu, but quickly realized she was merely an overzealous matchmaker, making her presence a nightmare. As Hua Qingge ventured out, she overheard Ji Chu discussing secret arrangements for "tomorrow's" action, assuring someone that everything was ready. Intrigued, she followed, discovering gunpowder residue on the ground.

She was horrified, realizing Ji Chu might be planning something major, possibly even a rebellion, after previously thinking he would abandon his violent ways post-revenge. She rushed to a warehouse, found a large quantity of black gunpowder, and frantically doused it with water. Hiding, she overheard people confirming the operation for "tomorrow," a date she quickly connected to the Empress's upcoming tea party.

Meanwhile, Lin Xiyao was preparing to enter the palace when she encountered Ji Yun, who invited her to accompany him. Other young ladies at the entrance were dismayed by Lin Xiyao's presence, especially given her attire as a coroner. They questioned her invitation and called her "ominous" for her profession. Ji Yun, however, was unfazed and escorted her inside. Hua Qingge also arrived and found Ji Wan'er complaining about Gong Yeqi ignoring her.

Hua Qingge consoled Ji Wan'er, suggesting that an early introduction to family might be intimidating, especially given Ji Wan'er’s "intimidating" family background. Ji Wan'er admitted she had planned to introduce Gong Yeqi to her mother at the tea party. Hua Qingge then left to join Ji Chu for the event, reminding Ji Wan'er to look after Lin Xiyao.

Ji Chu, upon seeing Hua Qingge, reminded her that her main task was to maintain their public display of affection, stating that his affection was not merely a show. Hua Qingge, for her part, decided to go along with the "public display of affection" to prevent the "arch-villain" Ji Chu from causing trouble.

At the tea party, which was secretly arranged for Ji Yun to find a potential bride, other young ladies continued to speak ill of Lin Xiyao, deeming her presence "ominous" because she handled corpses. Lin Xiyao explained that she had just completed an autopsy for a headless female corpse case and had rushed straight to the palace without time to change. When the gossip continued, Hua Qingge and Ji Wan'er stepped forward to defend her.

Just then, the Duke Dingguo arrived and shockingly announced that Lin Xiyao was his long-lost daughter. He recounted how, years ago, while he was fighting on the border, Lin Xiyao's mother brought her to find him. They were attacked by bandits, and while her mother's body was found, Lin Xiyao disappeared without a trace. He had recently learned that she was adopted by an old coroner. Lin Xiyao was taken aback but acknowledged the resemblance to her mother.

She still found it hard to accept the sudden revelation. Hua Qingge seized the opportunity to praise Lin Xiyao, helping to secure the Empress’s favor. The Empress, too, expressed her admiration for Lin Xiyao, calling her elegant and talented, and invited her to visit the palace more often. Separately, Du Wenshu, disguised as a guard, was discovered and apprehended within the palace.

An unknown figure in black, who had been waiting to rendezvous with him, quickly retreated upon seeing Du Wenshu's capture. After the banquet, Ji Chu escorted Hua Qingge away. Ji Yun offered to accompany Lin Xiyao home. Lin Xiyao was still grappling with her newfound identity. She expressed to Ji Yun that having been alone since her foster father’s death, the sudden appearance of family left her unsure how to feel.

Ji Yun empathetically listened, suggesting a stable place is eventually needed. She thanked him for his comfort and invited him to call her by her given name, Xiyao. Ji Yun admitted that the tea party was merely to appease his mother. When Lin Xiyao asked about his standards for a Crown Princess, he replied that character and shared interests were more important than background.

Lin Xiyao, impressed by his unconventional views, confessed her admiration for him, believing it was better to express feelings openly rather than let them fade. Ji Yun remarked that she was also very different from other women. Back at Prince Lv's Residence, Hua Qingge was surprised to learn that Ji Chu's "secret plan" was actually a successful trap to capture Du Wenshu. She was still puzzled by the purpose of the black gunpowder. Ji Chu then revealed his "surprise": fireworks.

To her dismay, the fireworks sputtered out after only one burst. Hua Qingge realized she had accidentally ruined them earlier, mistaking them for part of a nefarious plot. Ji Chu, seizing the moment, confessed his feelings for her. Hua Qingge was stunned, having never expected him to harbor such emotions. Ji Chu asserted that he always gets what he wants and would await her response.

Later, Ji Wan'er brought Hua Qingge a rare book of patterns to help her search for a specific totem. Hua Qingge explained she was looking for it to identify who was framing Ji Chu. Ji Wan'er teased Hua Qingge about her growing concern for Ji Chu, which Hua Qingge awkwardly denied.

Ji Chu interrogated Du Wenshu, who refused to name his mastermind, claiming his actions against Prince Qi were merely due to personal dislike and a desire to eliminate a public threat. When Ji Chu pressed him about the distinct tattoo on his body, Du Wenshu dismissed it as a "prank" done out of boredom.

Ji Chu found it hard to believe that someone as pragmatic and indifferent to fame and fortune as Du Wenshu would commit such acts for mere "pranks," especially since he was caught in the palace, and vowed to uncover the mystery. Using the book Ji Wan'er provided, Hua Qingge identified the symbol from Du Wenshu's tattoo. It was the "Red Luan Constellation Sign," a Fuyu totem symbolizing a life-and-death covenant and everlasting loyalty between lovers.

She noted it was similar yet subtly different from the "Tiger Thorn Totem" associated with an ancient Fuyu assassin organization that had vanished years ago. She shared her findings with Ji Chu, revealing that both totems originated from Fuyu. Hua Qingge further deduced that Du Wenshu was a "strategist" in Fuyu, a third-grade minister. Ji Chu was shocked that such a high-ranking official would become a lowly note-taker in Liang.

He immediately ordered his subordinate, Xiao Yan, to investigate all past strategist records in Fuyu. Ji Chu noted Hua Qingge's diligence in helping him find the totem, remarking that it proved her feelings for him. Hua Qingge, still reluctant to admit her emotions, insisted she was simply being "helpful."

Episode 22 Recap

Duke was still anxiously waiting for Lin Xiyao, his daughter, to return home, having already prepared her room. He worried she might still resent him and not wish to come back. His servant tried to comfort him, suggesting she was merely busy. To his delight, Lin Xiyao eventually arrived and apologized for her lateness. The Duke was overjoyed, welcomed her home, and offered her her favorite small wontons.

Lin Xiyao accepted him as her father, understanding that past events were not his intentional fault. Ji Yun had earlier investigated a mysterious totem and had a drawing of it. Upon seeing the intricate design, he was stunned, realizing it was identical to a tattoo he had seen on his mother, the Empress. His subordinate noticed his reaction and asked if he had found something.

Ji Yun knew the totem represented a Fuyu life and death pact and was concerned about its implications for his mother. Ji Chu was interrogating Du Hui, who confessed that twenty years ago, he, a talented official in Fuyu, fell in love with a wealthy young lady but couldn't be with her due to their differing social statuses.

Ji Chu quickly pieced together the story, revealing that the young lady was the Third Princess of Fuyu, now the Empress Hua Yunni, and Du Hui had resigned his post to follow her to Liang as a secretary. Ji Chu suggested that Du Hui's deep love for the Empress led him to be her willing pawn in the murder of Ji Feng. Du Hui vehemently denied this.

Just as Hua Qingge arrived, Du Hui, seeing the Empress's niece, requested her to deliver a message to an old friend. As he began to speak of something from fifteen years ago, a fire suddenly erupted around him, and Ji Chu recognized the smell of phosphorus powder. Despite the guards' efforts, Du Hui died by self-immolation. Earlier, Ji Yun had discovered an ornament on Du Hui's body that was identical to one worn by his mother.

This, combined with the Red Luan Constellation Sign totem, which he knew signified a life and death pact in Fuyu, intensified his suspicions. He confronted his mother, the Empress, demanding the truth about her relationship with Du Hui. He revealed that he had seen Du Hui buy the ornament at a Mid-Autumn Festival Fair and deduced that she and Du Hui were in love before her marriage to his father.

The Empress admitted to having the totem and confirmed that Du Hui had stayed in the East Office for years under her orders, initially as her subordinate, but later taking on a new role after Ji Chu assumed control. Ji Yun then asked if she had ordered Du Hui to kill Ji Feng. Overwhelmed, Ji Yun questioned the Empress's past teachings about kindness and sibling affection, recalling a time she punished him for fighting over a pastry with Ji Feng.

He felt that all her lessons now seemed false, believing she had ultimately harmed them all. After Du Hui's dramatic death, Hua Qingge expressed surprise that Ji Chu didn't ask her about her visit. Ji Chu, however, assured her of his trust.

Hua Qingge then recounted how Du Hui had asked her to deliver a message to an old friend, stating he would have no regrets and was about to speak of something from fifteen years ago when the fire erupted. Shortly after, a guard was apprehended outside the jail, having used a bronze mirror to ignite the phosphorus powder on Du Hui. The guard confessed, claiming long-standing animosity towards Du Hui.

Ji Chu, however, found the confession suspicious, noting Du Hui's good reputation within the East Office. He concluded that the murderer's testimony was fabricated, and someone powerful intended to silence Du Hui to quickly close the case of Ji Feng, and sought to identify who would be most eager to do so. In her chambers, the Empress was looking through her old dowry items, specifically a hairpin that was a token of her love with Du Hui.

Just as she was about to destroy it, Hua Qingge arrived to visit her aunt. Hua Qingge revealed that she had secretly visited Du Hui in prison, where he shared stories and asked her to deliver a message to an old friend. Hua Qingge subtly tried to gauge her aunt's reaction, asking if the Empress, also from Fuyu, knew anything about Du Hui's past or was curious about his dying words.

However, the Empress remained composed and claimed no knowledge or interest. Disheartened by her aunt's cold indifference, Hua Qingge left, remarking to herself that the Empress showed no curiosity about Du Hui's final words. Ji Chu found Hua Qingge visibly upset about the Empress's lack of interest in Du Hui's message. He explained that the palace environment was complex, where even a small detail could unravel years of meticulous planning, and that dismantling powerful forces would take time.

Hua Qingge then directly asked Ji Chu if he was hiding anything from her, to which he playfully responded that it wouldn't be him without a secret. He also asked why she always seemed to know his plans in advance, and when she stammered, he told her to reveal it when she was ready. Hua Qingge reaffirmed her trust in him.

Noticing her still observing him, Ji Chu teased her, suggesting that if she kept looking at him, he would assume she had fallen for him. Hua Qingge, flustered, quickly ran off. Lin Xiyao was preparing to return to the East Office when she discovered her belongings being moved back to the Duke's residence. Her father, the Duke, had ordered it, explaining that he worried about her working among corpses and attracting criticism.

He expressed his desire for her to stay by his side, especially as he was getting older, and to marry well, fulfilling her deceased mother's wish. Lin Xiyao reluctantly agreed to temporarily stop working at the East Office but expressed her reluctance to marry. The Duke, however, insisted he would find her the best match.

The Duke then visited Ji Chu, proposing a marriage alliance by offering his daughter, Lin Xiyao, to be Ji Chu's wife, which would bring the powerful Dingguo Army under Ji Chu's influence. He argued that while the Crown Prince would become Emperor, Ji Chu's ambition and strategies made him a more promising match. Hua Qingge, hidden nearby, overheard the conversation and worried if Ji Chu would accept, realizing such a marriage would displace her as Princess Consort.

Ji Chu, however, politely declined the Duke's offer, stating he already had a Princess Consort. The Duke, angered by the refusal, left. Ji Chu then called out Hua Qingge, who admitted to eavesdropping and questioned why he would forfeit such a beneficial alliance. Ji Chu simply replied that he would never do anything to hurt her. Hua Qingge, flustered and touched, ran off.

Episode 23 Recap

Hua Qingge found herself constantly smiling as she recalled Ji Chu's words to her, only to be startled when he suddenly appeared behind her. He then took her on a boat ride, remarking that he couldn't imagine being "in the same boat" with anyone else. Hua Qingge found his romantic overture a bit cringey, but he continued, admitting he knew she harbored secrets and promised to wait for her to trust him.

He asked if he held even a small place in her heart, leaving Hua Qingge flustered and speechless. Ji Chu then fulfilled his promise of a fireworks display, a debt he felt he owed her, which Hua Qingge found breathtakingly beautiful. Unbeknownst to them, Ji Yun observed their intimate moment, feeling a pang of discontent. As Ji Chu and Hua Qingge walked back, hand in hand, a young boy suddenly ran up to Ji Chu, calling him "Father."

Hua Qingge initially dismissed it as a mistake, warning the boy about kidnappers. However, when Ji Chu affectionately called the child "Pumpkin," she realized the boy was indeed his son. Internally, Hua Qingge was furious, feeling Ji Chu had confessed his feelings only to reveal he had a child, making her feel like a "stepmother." Ji Chu, surprised by Pumpkin's unexpected arrival in the capital, gently hushed the boy and took him to rest.

Meanwhile, the Empress's aide reported that the Duke of Dingguo had decided to ally with Prince Lv (Ji Chu), but Ji Chu had rejected his overtures. The Empress then saw an opportunity, having already extended an "olive branch." The Duke of Dingguo and his daughter, Lin Xiyao, met with the Empress. The Empress praised Lin Xiyao's beauty and poise. The Duke then brought up Lin Xiyao's marriage prospects, acknowledging that Prince Lv's rejection made finding a suitable match difficult.

The Empress suggested a member of the royal family, hinting at Ji Yun. Lin Xiyao, however, asserted that she desired a marriage based on mutual affection and would not force the Crown Prince's hand if he did not wish to marry her. At that moment, Ji Yun appeared, dramatically declaring that he "did" wish to marry Lin Xiyao and make her his consort.

Though the Duke had initially hoped for a union with Ji Chu, he accepted Ji Yun's proposal, recognizing Lin Xiyao's long-standing affection for the Crown Prince. The next morning, Hua Qingge was rudely awakened by water being sprayed on her. Pumpkin, the culprit, called her an "old witch" and declared that his father belonged only to his mother. Hua Qingge, seething with anger, lamented having to deal with the "rascal" after his "devil" of a father.

Later, she confided in Ji Wan'er, expressing her suspicion that Pumpkin might be Ji Chu's illegitimate child from Nanyi, and joked about Ji Chu being a "womanizer." Ji Wan'er, however, reassured her of Ji Chu's character and then, inspired by Hua Qingge's previous questions, firmly stated her own commitment to Gong Yeqi, regardless of any objections. Back in her room, Hua Qingge fell victim to another of Pumpkin's pranks.

Ji Chu arrived just as Hua Qingge was scolding the boy, who immediately feigned innocence, claiming Hua Qingge was punishing him for calling Ji Chu "Father." Hua Qingge, exasperated, called him a "drop the act" (referencing a scheming character). Ji Chu gently sent Pumpkin away with his attendant, then playfully teased Hua Qingge about being outsmarted by a child and even suggested they have children together.

Hua Qingge, embarrassed, tried to ascertain the identity of Pumpkin's mother and Ji Chu's first love. Ji Chu claimed she was his first love, but Hua Qingge, quickly seeing through his words, pointed out the logical inconsistency with Pumpkin's existence. Ji Chu found her jealousy amusing, and though he still didn't reveal Pumpkin's true identity, he advised her against clashing with his son, warning that Pumpkin shared his own stubborn nature.

Hua Qingge retorted that Ji Chu's entire family seemed to be bullies. Shortly after, an imperial decree was announced, ordering the immediate marriage of Crown Prince Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao. Ji Yun, though accepting the decree, confronted his mother, the Empress, pleading with her to withdraw from all court affairs.

He stated that to rectify her past misdeeds, he had been forced to act against his own will, hinting at his forced marriage to Lin Xiyao and his unrequited feelings for Hua Qingge. The Empress, however, believed she was acting for his sake and sternly reminded him that Hua Qingge was Prince Lv's consort, and he could never harbor feelings for her. Ji Yun, appearing to accept her words, assured her he had moved on.

Later, Hua Qingge noticed the mansion was unusually quiet and suspected Pumpkin was planning another prank. She prepared herself, but Ji Yun arrived just in time to save her from a falling bucket. Pumpkin, caught red-handed, quickly switched to a pitiful demeanor, apologizing to Hua Qingge and flattering Ji Yun before being led away by his attendant. Hua Qingge, still fuming, explained Pumpkin's antics to Ji Yun. She reiterated her belief that Pumpkin was Ji Chu's son from Nanyi.

Ji Yun then revealed a surprising detail: Ji Chu had faced life-threatening dangers in Nanyi and it was a miracle he survived. This revelation greatly surprised Hua Qingge, who, as a writer, realized she had "glossed over" that part of Ji Chu's story. Ji Yun then sorrowfully informed Hua Qingge of his impending marriage to Lin Xiyao, lamenting the loss of a lead in their investigation since Du Wenshu (also referred to as Du Hui) had seemingly died.

Hua Qingge, however, expressed genuine happiness for Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao, calling them a "match made in heaven" and wishing them lasting happiness. A subordinate soon informed Ji Chu that Du Wenshu, who was thought to be dead, had briefly regained consciousness but was not expected to live long. Ji Chu rushed to the prison to see him.

Confronting Du Wenshu, Ji Chu revealed his deep knowledge of Du Wenshu's past, including his unrequited love for the Empress (the Third Princess of Fuyu) and how he had aided her in marrying the Emperor despite her original betrothal to the First Princess of Fuyu. Ji Chu, now understanding the depth of such devotion, pressed Du Wenshu for information about the 15-year incident and the Empress's involvement.

With his last breaths, Du Wenshu gasped three crucial words: "Empress," "Su family," and "Demon Poison," before succumbing. Following these events, Hua Qingge, still troubled by Ji Chu's past in Nanyi, sought out Ji Wan'er for more details, and Ji Wan'er agreed to share what she knew.

Episode 24 Recap

Hua Qingge sought out Gong Yeqi, eager to learn more about Ji Chu's past in Nanjing, knowing he had endured immense hardship there. Gong Yeqi revealed that while everyone believed Ji Chu enjoyed prosperity as a hostage prince, he actually suffered a life worse than death, treated as a prisoner for grave crimes, locked in a dilapidated wooden shed, and given spoiled food.

Gong Yeqi described their chance encounter outside the palace and their subsequent recapture, which led to Ji Chu's continuous torture. In a flashback, Ji Chu lamented to Gong Yeqi that Gong Yeqi's suffering was due to protecting Ji Chu and entering the palace with him. Gong Yeqi, distraught, said he could not take it anymore, but Ji Chu urged patience, stating it was not yet time for their revenge.

They later discovered Imperial Consort Wei was behind Ji Chu's abuse, having instructed the chief eunuch to disregard the hostage prince's fate. Gong Yeqi recounted a horrifying incident where Ji Chu's finger was cut off. Fortunately, Gong Yeqi's advanced medical skills allowed him to reattach it, though a permanent scar remained, which Ji Chu now concealed with a ring. Gong Yeqi admitted his own fault in Ji Chu's suffering.

He explained that Ji Chu later exacted a tragic revenge on Wang Chuanzhi and, by exploiting internal rivalries among Nanjing's princes, gradually eliminated his enemies, ultimately seizing control of Nanjing's internal affairs. Hua Qingge was shocked by the extent of Ji Chu's past trauma. Gong Yeqi then advised Hua Qingge to directly ask Ji Chu about Pumpkin, emphasizing that Ji Chu carried unimaginable pain, and that the man she often saw was not his true self.

Back at his residence, Ji Chu inquired about Hua Qingge. An attendant reported that Hua Qingge had met him and then left upset, conjecturing it was due to the news of his impending marriage to Lin Xiyao. The attendant also reported that Ji Chu had been "caught" by Pumpkin, according to Pumpkin's maid. When Hua Qingge returned, Ji Chu questioned her somber mood.

Hua Qingge then earnestly promised to be a good stepmother to Pumpkin and also to Ji Chu himself. Ji Chu, confused by her statement, clarified that she should be Pumpkin's stepmother, not his. He apologized for the inconvenience of having her spend time with Pumpkin. Hua Qingge confidently stated she could handle Pumpkin with her Hua family's parenting methods, a balanced approach of firmness and gentleness, despite Ji Chu’s teasing about her lack of children.

Ji Chu then promised to tell her about Pumpkin when the time was right. Hua Qingge affirmed that the details no longer mattered; her only concern was to be good to him, doing everything he asked, cherishing him deeply. Ji Chu, amused, pulled her close, reminding her of her promise of obedience.

Later, Ji Chu conversed with Gong Yeqi, who confessed to revealing Ji Chu's past to Hua Qingge, which Ji Chu realized was why she had been so kind upon her return. Gong Yeqi suggested that letting her know his past might not be entirely bad. Now that his revenge was complete, Gong Yeqi also expressed his desire to tell Ji Wan'er about his own past. Gong Yeqi then asked Ji Chu for permission to marry Ji Wan'er.

Ji Chu, however, advised careful consideration, his thoughts turning to the Empress, the Su family, and the Demon Poison, realizing that if the events 15 years ago were linked to the Empress, then Ji Wan'er's birth mother could be responsible for his father's demise. Despite Ji Chu’s hesitation, Gong Yeqi declared he would marry Ji Wan'er regardless of any objections.

Returning to his home, Gong Yeqi found Ji Wan'er had beautifully arranged the space, envisioning a future where he could fish peacefully while she read by his side, transforming their shared space into Xuanjing Abode, a haven for healing body and mind. Ji Wan'er then asked about his meeting with Ji Chu. Gong Yeqi, touched by her understanding nature, shared his painful past. He recounted how his family, esteemed physicians, met their downfall because his kind-hearted father developed extraordinary medicines.

One of these, an anti-aging remedy, accidentally gained the ability to temporarily transform people into demons. His father intended to destroy it, but his colleague, Liu Mingsheng, informed Imperial Consort Wei. She pressured his father to create the demon poison for her. Upon his father's firm refusal, Imperial Consort Wei, fearing exposure, fabricated a plot that led to the execution of his entire family. Gong Yeqi survived thanks to an old servant who escorted him to safety.

Ji Wan'er expressed deep sympathy and anger towards Imperial Consort Wei, affirming her deserving end. Gong Yeqi, confessing that his first half of life was consumed by revenge, declared that Ji Wan'er was all he had left. Ji Wan'er vowed to protect him from any future injustices. Gong Yeqi, deeply moved, promised to marry her honorably, no matter the obstacles. Meanwhile, Ji Chu's attendant prepared a petal bath for him.

The attendant questioned Ji Chu's unusual request for a petal bath, recalling Hua Qingge's earlier mention of "parenting methods." Ji Chu clarified that he interpreted Hua Qingge's interest in parenting as a desire to bear his children, which he saw as a way to protect her amidst the volatile political climate, even from the Empress. He then instructed his attendant to summon Hua Qingge to Lanting Pool.

Hua Qingge arrived, puzzled by Ji Chu's request for her to deliver a handkerchief when a servant could have done it. She placed the handkerchief down and tried to leave, but found the door locked from inside. Ji Chu beckoned her in, reminding her of her promise of obedience. Inside, he, clad only in shorts, asked if she would bathe with him.

Hua Qingge, deeming the idea dull, playfully offered to give him a massage with her "whitening and moisturizing" medicine. As she tried to reach him, she slipped, almost falling into the bath. Ji Chu quickly caught her, leading to an accidental kiss. Recovering from the moment, Hua Qingge tumbled into the water, inadvertently pulling off Ji Chu's shorts and exposing him completely. Both were flustered, anticipating a restless night filled with racing thoughts of each other.

Later, Ji Wan'er and Gong Yeqi were happily organizing books in Xuanjing Abode, with Gong Yeqi reading romance novels, an unusual habit for him. Ji Wan'er explained she wanted to understand romance to better converse with him, but Gong Yeqi assured her that their love already surpassed such superficialities. He expressed his wish for them to spend their lives together, reading and gathering herbs, growing old peacefully.

Elsewhere, Ji Chu's subordinate, Xiao Yan, noticing Ji Chu's prior "unsuccessful attempt" with Hua Qingge, suggested another "good idea." He presented a "Child Bearing Pill" he acquired from the ghost market, claiming it would enable Ji Chu's wife to conceive. Ji Chu dismissed it as unreliable but, after Xiao Yan left, secretly took the pill. The pill turned out to be an aphrodisiac, making Ji Chu disoriented.

He stumbled into Hua Qingge's room, mistakenly believing her previous talk of "parenting methods" indicated a desire for children. Hua Qingge, realizing he was not himself, noticed he wasn't drunk and tried to resist his advances, calling him a pervert. Ji Chu confessed he had not expected the "Child Bearing Pill" to be an aphrodisiac and thought she wanted children. Hua Qingge vehemently denied it, calling it a misunderstanding.

In his dazed state, Ji Chu pressed her, asking if she harbored feelings for him. As he moved closer, Hua Qingge frantically tried to find a distraction, desperate to shift his attention away from the current predicament.

Episode 25 Recap

After taking what he thought was a "Child Bearing Pill," Ji Chu became intoxicated by the aphrodisiac and made advances toward Hua Qingge. She managed to keep him at bay throughout the night by wrestling with him on the floor until they both fell asleep from exhaustion. The next day, Ji Chu chastised his subordinate for the mix-up.

His subordinate then reported that Prime Minister Li had sent assassins to pursue the young emperor of Nanjing, Wei Nanqing, into Liang, but their men had intercepted and eliminated the assassins at the border. Ji Chu immediately issued orders to relay a secret message to his agents along the route.

Meanwhile, the Empress, concerned about the young emperor, received a secret message from Prime Minister Li indicating that the assassination attempt on Wei Nanqing had failed and the boy was now missing. She recalled that the Great General, before his death, had only seen the young emperor and the First Princess, believing the crucial Fish-shaped Token was with one of them.

Ji Yun arrived to pay his respects, acknowledging that the Empress monitored his every move, including his visit to Hua Qingge the previous day. He explained that he went "to put everything to an end." Ji Yun then reported that an eight-year-old boy, rumored to be Ji Chu's son from Nanjing, had arrived at Prince Lv's residence. The Empress vehemently denied this, asserting that it was impossible for the boy to be Ji Chu's son.

Ji Yun later informed his father, the Emperor, about the boy at Ji Chu's residence. The Emperor revealed that the boy was Wei Nanqing, the young emperor of Nanjing. He expressed suspicion over Ji Chu bringing Wei Nanqing to Liang, fearing it was an attempt to gain military control, as Nanjing's armies only obeyed the Fish-shaped Token. Ji Yun defended his brother, assuring his father that Ji Chu would never plot treason.

However, the Emperor insisted on eliminating Wei Nanqing to prevent Ji Chu from being caught in a difficult position, even if Ji Chu himself had no ill intentions. Ji Yun confirmed that arrangements to do so were already in place. Hua Qingge decided to go shopping for a wedding gift for a friend. Wei Nanqing pleaded to join her, and she reluctantly agreed, emphasizing that he must hold her hand tightly. They discreetly exited through the back door.

On their outing, Hua Qingge asked Wei Nanqing why he disliked her. He revealed that Ji Chu already had a "lover" in Nanjing, a woman of "grace and elegance" who was "the only one worthy of being with my father." Hua Qingge, assuming it was an ex-girlfriend, felt a pang of annoyance but bought Wei Nanqing a toy. Wei Nanqing was then distracted by another toy and ran off.

When Hua Qingge followed, she found the vendor gone and sensed something was wrong. As she tried to lead Wei Nanqing away, an assassin appeared with a sword. Hua Qingge bravely shielded Wei Nanqing with her body. Ji Chu arrived just in time to drive off the attacker. Wei Nanqing confessed that he was the one who insisted on the outing.

As they left, Hua Qingge found a jade pendant on the ground and pocketed it, unaware that Ji Yun had secretly intervened to deflect the assassin's sword, saving her life. Back at Prince Lv's residence, Ji Chu’s subordinate reported that the captured assassin refused to confess under torture. Ji Chu ordered the interrogation to continue, determined to uncover the mastermind.

Hua Qingge, still shaken, questioned Ji Chu about the attack, suspecting Wei Nanqing's identity was far more significant than just his son. Ji Chu confirmed her suspicions, revealing that Wei Nanqing was the young emperor of Nanjing. Hua Qingge was astonished. Ji Chu explained he had kept the boy's identity secret for his safety, and now that it was compromised, they needed to be even more vigilant.

He added that Wei Nanqing, having lost his father at a young age, had always called him "father." Hua Qingge then teasingly asked about Ji Chu's "lover in Nanjing," wondering if Wei Nanqing called her "mother." Ji Chu playfully accused her of being jealous and recalled the previous night, asking if her confession of liking him was sincere. Hua Qingge feigned a loss of memory. Meanwhile, Lin Xiyao began rigorous training for her role as Crown Princess.

The instructress emphasized discarding old habits and studying the "Rules for Women." Lin Xiyao challenged the notion that women should be confined, advocating for their right to independent thought. The instructress retorted that her background as a coroner was ill-suited for the royal family, but Lin Xiyao calmly stated she found no fault in her profession. She agreed to read the "Rules for Women," clarifying her compliance was solely to prevent trouble for Ji Yun.

Overhearing this, Ji Yun later spoke with her, expressing regret for his hasty proposal and offering to call off the engagement. Lin Xiyao reassured him it was her own decision and she had no regrets. Acknowledging his heart belonged to another, she asked him to give her a chance, confident that his feelings might change over time, and he agreed.

Later, Hua Qingge confronted Wei Nanqing, calling him by his true name and accusing him of intentionally causing friction between her and Ji Chu. In return for her saving his life, Wei Nanqing promised to stop antagonizing her. He then revealed that Ji Chu's "lover" in Nanjing was his own older sister, Wei Nanyi, the First Princess of Nanjing, who had saved Ji Chu's life.

Wei Nanqing then took a sip of his fruit tea, which Hua Qingge had also just tasted. As they bantered, Hua Qingge suddenly collapsed, poisoned. A servant quickly informed Ji Chu. The maid responsible for poisoning the tea committed suicide before she could be questioned. The Healer Sage examined Hua Qingge and warned that the poison was potent; without an antidote, she might not survive the night, and concocting one would take time. Ji Chu was frantic.

Realizing the poison was intended for Wei Nanqing and that Hua Qingge had accidentally consumed it, Ji Yun prepared an antidote. His subordinate advised against delivering it directly to avoid revealing his involvement in the assassination attempt. Prioritizing Hua Qingge's life, Ji Yun decided to deliver it himself, using the pretense of bringing wedding invitations with Lin Xiyao to Prince Lv's residence. Upon arrival, they feigned ignorance of the situation until informed of Hua Qingge's critical condition. Ji Yun then "offered" a potent antidote from the Healer Sage, claiming it could cure all poisons. Desperate, Ji Chu gratefully accepted the remedy.

Episode 26 Recap

Hua Qingge awoke to find Ji Chu by her side, informing her that she had drunk poisoned tea and nearly died. Her first concern was for Nanqing, who, thankfully, was unharmed. Ji Chu then thanked Ji Yun for providing the antidote, mentioning that Ji Yun had arrived with Lin Xiyao.

Ji Yun explained that he and Lin Xiyao had come to deliver wedding invitations and only then learned of Hua Qingge's poisoning, conveniently having an antidote that could cure any poison. Suspicion arose in Ji Chu, and Lin Xiyao, sensing the tension, quickly found an excuse to leave with Ji Yun. However, Hua Qingge, despite her weak state, stopped them. She directly confronted Ji Yun, asking if he was responsible for the poisoning, finding the timing too coincidental.

She showed him a jade pendant she had found, implying it was evidence of his involvement. Hua Qingge expressed profound disappointment, having hoped her suspicions were wrong. She questioned his motives for targeting Nanqing, a child, for political reasons, recalling his past ideals of peace and stability.

Ji Yun admitted that he was not the "pure and innocent" person she believed him to be, attributing his actions to the unavoidable constraints of the imperial family and the constant struggle to balance and endure. Hua Qingge dismissed his excuses, returned the jade pendant, and urged him to stop his dangerous path before she lost all faith in him.

After Hua Qingge left, Lin Xiyao approached a somber Ji Yun, reassuring him that she understood he had his reasons and lived for those he cared about, vowing to stand by him and believing he would not make further mistakes. Back in her room, Hua Qingge was met by Ji Chu, who revealed he also suspected Ji Yun and shared her disappointment. Hua Qingge worried about the growing rift between the brothers.

Ji Chu declared that if Ji Yun ceased his actions, he would forgive him, but if he persisted, he would not hesitate to act, regardless of their brotherly ties. Meanwhile, Ji Chu's men continued to monitor Imperial Consort Wei, who feigned madness, constantly searching for her son, Feng. Ji Chu's subordinate reported no unusual activity from her.

Ji Chu maintained that she was pretending to avoid punishment and intended to confront her on Ji Feng’s death anniversary to uncover the truth about the events 15 years ago, and the Empress's potential involvement. His spies also reported the Empress was occupied with Ji Yun's upcoming wedding preparations and showed no other suspicious activity, but Ji Chu insisted on continued surveillance.

Hua Qingge, aware of Ji Yun's "villainization," worried about the escalating conflict between the brothers, fearing it would lead to a clash that contradicted her desire for Ji Chu to remain the good man he had become. The next morning, Hua Qingge was abruptly awakened by Nanqing, who joyfully greeted his elder sister, Wei Nanyi. Feeling self-conscious in her disheveled state compared to the elegant Wei Nanyi, Hua Qingge quickly retreated to get ready.

Wei Nanyi commented on Ji Chu having a "family," to which Nanqing playfully suggested that Wei Nanyi should marry Ji Chu herself to form a complete family. Inside, Wei Nanyi updated Ji Chu on the precarious situation in Nanjing since his departure. She explained that Prime Minister Li Dianzhao was actively plotting to usurp the throne, spreading rumors that Ji Chu was conspiring with foreign powers.

Despite her efforts to dismantle Li Dianzhao's faction as instructed, he attempted to assassinate Nanqing, leading her to rescue the boy and bring him to Ji Chu for safety. Ji Chu expressed concern that bringing Nanqing to Daliang put Wei Nanyi in further danger, to which Wei Nanyi replied that Nanqing was struggling in Nanjing and she had no other choice.

She then informed Ji Chu that his spies reported Li Dianzhao had turned the tables, publicly accusing Ji Chu of attempting to kill Nanqing to claim the throne. Ji Chu then suggested they seek refuge with him temporarily while they strategized their next move.

She voiced fears of Li Dianzhao launching a full rebellion, but Ji Chu assured her that Li Dianzhao could not yet seize the throne because Wei Nanyi possessed the Fish-shaped Token, which commanded Nanjing's 100,000 elite soldiers. Wei Nanyi also revealed that the assassins who attacked Nanqing bore a distinct tattoo, which Ji Chu recognized as belonging to the same organization that had framed him, confirming the Empress's insidious reach into Nanjing's affairs.

Determined to present a striking appearance, Hua Qingge adorned herself elaborately, only to be met by Ji Chu who gently removed her excessive hair ornaments, restoring her more natural look. Her efforts were spurred by a fear of losing him. Ji Chu, in turn, kissed her, a moment witnessed by Wei Nanyi, who watched with a hint of melancholy.

Later, during a shared meal, Hua Qingge felt like an outsider observing a family reunion between Ji Chu, Wei Nanyi, and Nanqing. Ji Chu lovingly fed Hua Qingge, while Nanqing playfully teased her about her appetite. Hua Qingge reflected on her novel, perplexed that Nanqing and Wei Nanyi were not characters in her original story, wondering who was now dictating the plot.

She grew increasingly anxious that the presence of Nanqing and Wei Nanyi would further endanger Ji Chu, making him a target for Ji Yun. The day of Ji Yun and Lin Xiyao's wedding arrived. Hua Qingge privately wished Ji Yun had not been corrupted and could find happiness with Lin Xiyao as in her original story. Elsewhere, Ji Wan'er was introducing Gong Yeqi to her mother, the Empress, as her close friend and potential suitor.

Before Ji Wan'er could fully explain, the Empress announced that she had already arranged a marriage for her daughter with a man of high status, talent, and impeccable character, deeming him the perfect husband. Ji Wan'er was distraught, protesting that her mother had made this decision without her consent.

The Empress firmly stated that a parent's duty was to arrange a suitable marriage and that she would not permit Ji Wan'er to marry a commoner, a decision her father, the Emperor, would never approve of either. Gong Yeqi, standing nearby, was left to ponder his own inadequate status.

Episode 27 Recap

Imperial Consort Wei mourned her son, Ji Feng, observing what would have been his birthday, noting that those who once flattered him now only remembered Crown Prince Ji Yun's grand wedding. She felt profound guilt for not being able to avenge him. Ji Chu arrived, revealing that he knew she was feigning madness. He proposed they cooperate to avenge Ji Feng.

Imperial Consort Wei initially accused Ji Chu of her son's death, but Ji Chu presented evidence from the East Office, identifying Du Hui, the leader of the Fuyu Tiger Totem assassination group, as the murderer, implying the Empress was behind it. Realizing the Empress, Hua Yunni, was the true mastermind, Imperial Consort Wei was enraged, vowing to kill her for her son's death, which she now understood was a "kill two birds with one stone" scheme by the Empress.

Ji Chu then pressed Imperial Consort Wei about his mother's Demon Poison case 15 years ago, believing the Empress was also involved. Imperial Consort Wei recalled the past, when she was deeply agitated by His Majesty's intention to promote Imperial Concubine Xian, a lowly dancer, to Imperial Consort. She overheard a conversation about a terrifying Demon Poison that could make a person appear monstrous.

Although initially warned against its use, the Empress, playing an aloof role, subtly encouraged Imperial Consort Wei's jealousy and informed her that Ji Feng was to be sent as an envoy to the Southern Territory. Driven by fear and manipulation, Imperial Consort Wei orchestrated Imperial Concubine Xian's downfall using the Demon Poison, unaware she was a pawn in the Empress's "borrowed knife" plot.

Imperial Consort Wei also confessed that she suffered a miscarriage of another imperial child after taking medicine prescribed by Physician Su, which the Empress then falsely attributed to Physician Su's wrongdoing, leading to the extermination of the entire Su family by His Majesty. Imperial Consort Wei swore on her family's name that her revelations were true. Ji Chu promised to arrange a meeting with His Majesty for her to tell everything, with the condition that she be completely honest.

However, before she could meet His Majesty, Imperial Consort Wei was assassinated by arrows. With her dying breath, she pleaded with Ji Chu to avenge Ji Feng. His Majesty learned of Imperial Consort Wei's death on Crown Prince Ji Yun's wedding day. He admonished Ji Chu for the bloodshed, questioning if Ji Chu was seeking to cause trouble after previously pleading for Imperial Consort Wei's life.

Ji Chu denied involvement, stating the assassin escaped, leaving him without explanation for being at Changhan Palace. The Empress intervened, feigning concern, arguing that Ji Chu would not act so recklessly in broad daylight, and urged His Majesty to investigate. While seemingly accepting the Empress's plea, His Majesty nonetheless stripped Ji Chu of his position as Director of the East Office.

His Majesty privately expressed concern about Ji Chu, fearing that with both the East Office and the Fish-shaped Token, Ji Chu would become uncontrollable. He ordered Imperial Consort Wei to be given a proper burial, acknowledging her as Ji Feng's birth mother. Later that evening, on his wedding night, Ji Yun was urgently called away.

His subordinate confessed to Ji Yun that he had killed Imperial Consort Wei when she was with Prince Lv (Ji Chu), as Ji Yun had ordered. Ji Yun silently grappled with the consequences of his ruthless actions. Meanwhile, Ji Chu discussed the implications of Imperial Consort Wei's death with his aide, concluding that she was a scapegoat and the Empress was the true mastermind behind all the recent events.

He resolved to find solid evidence against the Empress for her various crimes, including colluding with foreign powers, harming princes, and framing consorts, to ultimately bring down her entire family. Lin Xiyao was left alone on her wedding night, concerned about Ji Chu's timing regarding Imperial Consort Wei's death, suggesting the palace might suspect him. The next morning, Ji Yun went to see the Empress, his mother.

She asked if he had sent someone to assassinate Imperial Consort Wei, acknowledging his "progress." Ji Yun was horrified, questioning if ruthlessness was progress, and revealed he now knew about her heinous actions 15 years ago. The Empress admitted her guilt for both past and present deeds, expressing the constant torment she endured for her irreparable mistakes. Ji Yun questioned her motives.

She explained that everything she did, including securing her position as Empress, was to ensure the Crown Prince position would fall to him, planning for his future. Ji Yun countered that he never cared for the position, but the Empress argued he could only say so because he had it, emphasizing how many people coveted the imperial throne. She even suggested he confess everything to His Majesty to free her from her daily suffering.

Ji Yun, tears in his eyes, promised his mother that no matter what happened, he would always protect her. The Empress later reflected that her most feared day had arrived, realizing Ji Chu must also know the truth, but affirmed she still held a trump card. Wei Nanyi's attendant, Su Ju, complained about Hua Qingge being Princess Consort Lv, asserting Wei Nanyi and Ji Chu were a better match.

Wei Nanyi, however, told Su Ju not to speak such words, as Ji Chu and Hua Qingge shared an affinity, and she needed to establish a good relationship with Hua Qingge if she wished to marry Ji Chu. Hua Qingge, feeling like a soulmate between Ji Chu and Wei Nanyi, harbored a trace of jealousy when Wei Nanyi visited her.

Hua Qingge bluntly asked if former and current partners could be friends, to which Wei Nanyi replied that Ji Chu described her as straightforward and interesting. Hua Qingge wondered if Ji Chu meant "offhand." Wei Nanyi then asked Hua Qingge about her early life as Princess Consort Lv, and Hua Qingge admitted it was difficult at first, but became more comfortable once her life was no longer in danger.

Wei Nanyi recounted her first meeting with Ji Chu when she was eight. Out of curiosity, she stumbled upon Ji Chu's courtyard where he, as an envoy, was being severely punished by Steward Wang. Wei Nanyi intervened, stopping the abuse and scolding Steward Wang, then checking on Ji Chu, acknowledging that if not for her, Ji Chu's time as an envoy would have been even harder.

Meanwhile, Ji Wan'er confided in Ji Chu that her mother, the Empress, had rejected her marriage to Gong Yeqi, citing an existing arranged marriage. Ji Wan'er, deeply saddened, revealed her plan to elope with Gong Yeqi at Zi hour in the Jingzhi Library and desperately pleaded with Ji Chu for help to escape the palace. Ji Chu, however, refused, deeming her decision too rash and saying he would not help with this particular matter, despite her repeated pleas.

Separately, Wei Nanyi met with Gong Yeqi, who had been in Liang for a few days. Gong Yeqi expressed his intention to pursue his love for Ji Wan'er now that his past grievances were resolved, despite the vast difference in their social status. He declared his unwavering commitment to making Ji Wan'er happy and announced their plan to leave that very night to live a life free from worldly concerns. Wei Nanyi, however, cautioned Gong Yeqi that there was something he needed to know to prevent him from falling into an abyss of no return.

Episode 28 Recap

Ji Chu was still gathering evidence against the Empress. He knew that the witnesses to the Empress's past crimes had been exterminated, making it impossible to bring her down with just evidence. His strategy was to lure her into taking action again, especially since she was colluding with Prime Minister Li to weaken his power in Nanjing and would likely prevent him from obtaining the Fish-shaped Token.

When Gong Yeqi arrived, he confronted Ji Chu directly, asking how long he intended to conceal the truth that the Empress had framed his father. Hua Qingge, listening from outside, realized that the Empress was the true villain, a revelation entirely absent from her original novel. She mused that her efforts to prevent Ji Chu's villainous transformation might have inadvertently prompted the Empress to reveal her true, manipulative nature.

Gong Yeqi pressed Ji Chu, pointing out that Ji Wan'er was the daughter of the person responsible for killing Ji Chu's family, and asked if he would set aside his hatred to be with her or pursue revenge despite her mother's involvement. Ji Chu admitted he knew everything and wished he could keep it a secret forever, especially for Ji Wan'er's sake.

At the Crown Prince Residence, Ji Yun drank heavily, still troubled by his mother's insistence that her actions were solely to secure his position as Crown Prince. He bitterly reflected on the palace being built not of bricks but of lies and ruthlessness. Lin Xiyao entered, offering comfort and assuring him there was still sincerity and warmth amidst the falsehoods.

She cautioned him that drinking would only deepen his sorrows, to which Ji Yun replied that without the numbing effect of wine, the long night would be unbearable. He questioned why she cared so deeply for him. Lin Xiyao recalled their first meeting in Jinglv Hall, where he, despite the risks, bravely defended a commoner against a prominent family, proclaiming that in the face of life and death, all are equal.

His kindness had forever etched itself in her heart, inspiring her commitment as a coroner. Ji Yun sadly remarked that he was no longer the man he once was. Lin Xiyao assured him that all difficulties would pass, and the pain would eventually fade. He then stated that even if the world condemned him, he would persist in his actions to protect those he cherished.

Hua Qingge continued to grapple with the reality of the Empress being the true mastermind, a significant departure from her original novel where Ji Chu simply turned villainous and rebelled after avenging his mother. She realized that her attempts to prevent Ji Chu's "blackening" had ironically exposed the Empress's manipulative nature. Ji Chu found her deep in thought and asked what was on her mind.

Hua Qingge expressed a desire to escape the conflict in Liang, also wondering if Wei Nanyi's recent visit had unsettled him. Ji Chu, embracing her, promised to protect her no matter what. Hua Qingge then asked him if he and Ji Yun would eventually resort to bloodshed. Ji Chu, in turn, questioned her, asking what choice she would make if he were to be completely at odds with her cousin Ji Yun and even her aunt, the Empress.

Hua Qingge responded simply, "I want you to stay alive." Later, the Empress summoned Hua Qingge to Fengyi Palace. The Empress, addressing her as "Qing'er," reminded her of the initial mission to make Prince Lv, Ji Chu, fall deeply in love with her and trust her, praising her success. Now, the Empress revealed a new task: a woman residing in Prince Lv's residence possessed the Fish-shaped Token, an item capable of jeopardizing the peace of Liang.

The Empress instructed Hua Qingge to seize an opportunity to retrieve the Fish-shaped Token before this woman could cause any trouble, ensuring Ji Chu remained unaware of the scheme. Hua Qingge, after a moment's hesitation, agreed. Meanwhile, Ji Wan'er, closely watched by her mother, found herself unable to leave the palace. She tasked her maid, Ru Jiao, with delivering a letter directly to Gong Yeqi, despite Ru Jiao's worries about the Empress's reaction.

Ru Jiao delivered the letter, explaining Ji Wan'er's predicament and asking Gong Yeqi to wait two more days for her. To Ru Jiao's dismay, Gong Yeqi simply tore the letter without even opening it. Ru Jiao reported this back to a bewildered Ji Wan'er, who was shocked by Gong Yeqi's sudden change in attitude.

Determined to understand, Ji Wan'er resolved to find a way to escape the palace and confront him in person, even as an old maid arrived to help her try on her wedding gown. In the courtyard, Ji Chu was led by Xiao Nangua, or Pumpkin, to meet Wei Nanyi. It had been a long time since they had a drink together.

Wei Nanyi reminisced about their past in Nanjing and confessed her long-held curiosity about the woman who would finally capture his heart. She acknowledged that after meeting Princess Consort Lv, Hua Qingge, she understood that only a straightforward and fearless woman could bring him the stability he needed. Ji Chu, in turn, described Hua Qingge as "indescribable and irreplaceable."

Then, Wei Nanyi, confessing her long-standing affection, proposed marriage, offering to give him the Fish-shaped Token to aid his revenge if he agreed. However, Ji Chu's heart remained solely with Hua Qingge, indicating his unspoken refusal.

Gong Yeqi, deeply unsettled by the revelation that the Empress was responsible for his father's death, began to disband his Mystic Medicine House, instructing his servant He Tong to find a new job, stating that there was nothing in this world that could not be given up. That rainy night, Ji Wan'er, having painstakingly escaped the palace, confronted him. She demanded to know why he was leaving without a word and why he had torn up her letter unread.

Gong Yeqi, grappling with the agonizing truth that Ji Wan'er was the daughter of his family's killer, could only bring himself to tell her to forget him. Ji Wan'er, desperate, wondered if her mother had intervened or if he doubted her ability to adapt to a life outside the palace. She reaffirmed her unwavering commitment, declaring her readiness to endure poverty and follow him anywhere.

She pleaded with him to speak, asking if his promises of a lifetime together were all lies and if he would abandon her over such a challenge. With immense internal struggle, Gong Yeqi, choosing to protect her from the horrific truth about her mother, falsely claimed, "It was all a lie. If you took it seriously, I'm sorry." When Ji Wan'er refused to believe him, insisting he wasn't heartless, he reiterated his fabricated cruelness, saying, "I'm a heartless man.

It's just that you imagined me too well." Ji Wan'er pressed him for a definitive, truthful answer, promising to let go if he affirmed his words. With a heavy heart, Gong Yeqi cruelly declared, "Yes. From now on, stop bothering me." His words shattered Ji Wan'er, who collapsed in despair as memories of their shared happy moments flooded her mind, knowing they could never return.

Ji Wan'er returned to the palace with a high fever, prompting the distraught Empress to guard her daughter's bedside. The Empress sternly questioned her maid, realizing Ji Wan'er must have met someone she shouldn't have. Meanwhile, Hua Qingge, recalling Wei Nanyi's proposition to Ji Chu, still sought clarity from him regarding his feelings. Mustering her courage, she entered Ji Chu's room, intending to ask him a question.

However, upon seeing him holding the Fish-shaped Token, she immediately understood and declared, "No, I've got the answer." Shortly after, Ji Chu received a report from a subordinate: a palace maid from Fengyi Palace had overheard the Empress revealing her true intentions behind arranging Hua Qingge's marriage—to make Ji Chu fall in love and gain his trust, thereby facilitating her own hidden agendas. The maid had not heard any new tasks assigned to Hua Qingge post-wedding.

Believing Hua Qingge's affections were merely part of a calculated mission, Ji Chu became profoundly heartbroken and drank heavily. Wei Nanyi observed him from a distance, her own heart aching. She reflected on his unchanging sorrow yet the significant changes he had undergone. She recalled her initial attraction to him, drawn by his deep, melancholic gaze, understanding the immense sadness he concealed. She acknowledged that her feelings for him were no secret, though he remained oblivious or chose to ignore them, realizing that his heart had never truly belonged to her.

Episode 29 Recap

Wei Nanyi informed Gong Yeqi that Ji Chu had rejected her marriage proposal, even though she offered him the Fish-shaped Token to aid his revenge. Ji Chu explicitly stated that his heart belonged only to Hua Qingge, adding that having Hua Qingge by his side was his blessing. Wei Nanyi, though disappointed, still offered him the Fish-shaped Token, and Ji Chu promised to help her deal with Prime Minister Li.

Gong Yeqi observed that Ji Chu was deeply affected by Hua Qingge, thinking it might soften his heart, but Wei Nanyi believed it would only bring him more pain. Wei Nanyi then noted Gong Yeqi's own intense desire for revenge, asking if he could forget some of it. Gong Yeqi adamantly replied that the pain of losing his entire family was unforgettable and vowed to tear off the Empress's "pretentious mask" and make her "pay with blood for her sins."

As Ji Chu became intoxicated later, Wei Nanyi helped him back to his room. Along the way, a drunken Ji Chu mistook Wei Nanyi for Hua Qingge and embraced her, pleading that he never wanted her to leave him. Hua Qingge, who was experiencing her hand becoming transparent – a tell-tale sign that she might be returning to her own world – witnessed this intimate scene.

Heartbroken, she retreated to her room and cried, trying to rationalize that if she was destined to leave, it might be good for Ji Chu to have someone else by his side. Overwhelmed, Hua Qingge recalled the Empress's previous command to steal the Fish-shaped Token. She had agreed without fully understanding its significance to Ji Chu, but now believed Ji Chu was indeed going to marry Wei Nanyi. Feeling she needed to act, she resolved to steal the token herself.

Upon returning to his room, Ji Chu immediately sensed that someone had been there and discovered that the Fish-shaped Token was missing. A guard confirmed it must have been the Empress's people, marveling at how they bypassed security. Ji Chu then found Hua Qingge nearby and confronted her. Seeing the token hidden on her, he accused her of planning to give it to the Empress.

Hua Qingge tried to explain, but a furious Ji Chu refused to listen, ordering Xiao Yan to confine her to Anxiang Hall and forbid her from leaving without his permission. Confined to her room, Hua Qingge worried about how long she would be held and if the Empress would act against Ji Chu when she learned of her predicament. The Empress was indeed informed of Hua Qingge's confinement.

Initially disappointed that Hua Qingge's rash actions had exposed her and seemingly cost her Ji Chu's trust, the Empress ultimately saw it as proof of Hua Qingge's loyalty to her. While acknowledging the potential risk, the Empress decided against direct intervention to avoid implicating herself in the theft. Instead, she resolved to "give Yun a push" to stir up trouble for Ji Chu.

Gong Yeqi confronted Ji Chu about Hua Qingge, asserting that her attempt to steal the Fish-shaped Token confirmed she was an agent of the Empress. He urged Ji Chu to remove this "threat" rather than protect her. Ji Chu maintained he knew what he was doing and told Gong Yeqi not to interfere. Gong Yeqi also expressed concern about Ji Wan'er's potential marriage to Prime Minister Li.

Gong Yeqi advised Ji Chu to be decisive in his personal life, but Ji Chu countered that while revenge was important, some things were even more so. The Empress feigned illness and summoned Ji Yun. She dramatically recounted Hua Qingge's confinement, framing it as a consequence of her own matchmaking and expressing concern that Ji Chu was wary of Hua Qingge due to her familial ties to the Empress.

She further exacerbated Ji Yun's concerns by revealing the presence of Wei Nanyi, the First Princess of the Southern Kingdom, at Ji Chu's residence, suggesting that Wei Nanyi was Ji Chu's love interest from the southern border and that Ji Chu might be planning to divorce Hua Qingge to marry Wei Nanyi. Ji Yun was initially skeptical, having witnessed Ji Chu's affection for Hua Qingge, but the Empress insisted that true intentions are often hidden beneath the surface.

The Emperor summoned Ji Chu, stating that reports from officials about his "esteemed guests" were causing unrest in the court. Ji Yun then revealed that Wei Nanqing and Wei Nanyi, being foreign royalty and possessing the Fish-shaped Token, were perceived as a threat. Ji Chu, realizing Ji Yun was behind the complaints, tried to explain they were merely visiting.

However, the Emperor, deeming their prolonged stay a "potential threat," ordered Ji Chu to send them away quickly to calm the court. Ji Chu requested a few more days, citing Wei Nanyi as his savior from the southern border and not wanting to appear ungrateful. The Emperor reluctantly agreed, reminding his sons to get along, especially with Ji Wan'er's wedding approaching.

After the Emperor left, Ji Chu confronted Ji Yun, accusing him of being the "officials" stirring up trouble and vowing to no longer go easy on him. Ji Yun warned Ji Chu not to push him further. Confined to her room, Hua Qingge tried to call for Xiao Yan, hoping to explain herself to Ji Chu.

Xiaonangua arrived, initially scolding Hua Qingge for upsetting Ji Chu, but then revealed that Ji Wan'er had been betrothed to Prime Minister Li and was soon to leave for the southern border. Hua Qingge was shocked. Xiaonangua explained she shared the news because of Hua Qingge's kindness and her sisterly bond with Ji Wan'er, though she also advised Hua Qingge to focus on her own troubles.

After Xiaonangua left, Hua Qingge's hand began to turn transparent again, and she briefly glimpsed her modern world, realizing she was about to return but wasn't ready to leave. That night, Ji Chu was still preoccupied with thoughts of Hua Qingge. A subordinate reassured him that despite the accusations, he believed Hua Qingge was trustworthy. Ji Chu eventually went to see Hua Qingge and found her crying.

Heartbroken, he confronted her, asking why she was upset when he was the one who should feel wronged. Hua Qingge tearfully explained her sorrow stemmed from his perceived relationship with Wei Nanyi, Ji Wan'er's forced marriage, and her impending, permanent departure. She accused him of still doubting her despite their time together. Ji Chu responded that he didn't want to doubt her, but any misstep concerning the Empress could be disastrous. Overwhelmed, Hua Qingge told him to leave.

As Ji Chu turned to go, Hua Qingge's hand once again became transparent, and she began to fade away. Panicked, she desperately called out his name, trying to embrace him but passing through him. Ji Chu, seeing her distress and fading form, quickly pulled her into a tight embrace. Sobbing, Hua Qingge confessed that she had never betrayed him, only intending to duplicate a fake Fish-shaped Token to deceive the Empress. Ji Chu, holding her close, told her he believed her, no matter what she said.

Episode 30 Recap

The Empress was sewing bridal shoes for Ji Wan'er and, while watching young palace maids playing, she was reminded of her own youth, reflecting on how quickly time had passed and how her legitimate daughter, Ji Wan'er, was now of marriageable age. The Emperor arrived and observed the finished bridal shoes, complimenting her exquisite needlework.

He told her he understood her sadness over Ji Wan'er's impending distant marriage, knowing the deep bond between mother and daughter, and sought to console her. The Empress, appearing emotional, remarked on her aging and how hearing his heartfelt words brought tears to her eyes. The Emperor then reaffirmed that she was the only one by his side, to which the Empress pledged her eternal companionship.

Ji Wan'er’s maid, Ru Jiao, urged her to put on her shoes to avoid catching a cold and to stop crying, reminding her that marriage was a joyous occasion. However, Ji Wan'er lamented that she no longer had the freedom to follow her heart. She reasoned that if she couldn't marry the one she loved, it didn't matter who she married, whether it was Prime Minister Li or anyone else.

Resigned to her fate, she asked Ru Jiao to bring the bridal shoes, and found them to fit perfectly. Hua Qingge, recently released from confinement, went to Jingzhi Library, which she found neglected. She then sought out Ji Chu and pleaded with him to help Ji Wan'er, who was to be married off to the Southern Realm the next day, emphasizing his love for his sister.

Ji Chu explained that given the current situation, he was powerless, as marriages in the imperial family were beyond one's control. He stated that Ji Wan'er was not only his sister but also the Princess of Liang. Hua Qingge accused him of being heartless for giving up on Ji Wan'er without trying. She declared her intention to find Gong Yeqi and ask him to take Ji Wan'er away.

Ji Chu stopped her, revealing that Gong Yeqi would not take Ji Wan'er away, as he was willing to abandon her without hesitation for the sake of revenge. Hua Qingge expressed her dismay, feeling that Ji Wan'er did not deserve such treatment. Ji Chu then asked Hua Qingge to trust him and leave the matter to him. Lin Xiyao visited Ji Yun, expressing her concern for Ji Wan'er's impending distant marriage.

She told Ji Yun that she considered Ji Wan'er a sister and could not bear to see her marry so far away. Ji Yun admitted he also did not wish for it. Lin Xiyao then asked if convincing the Empress would make a difference, but quickly apologized for putting Ji Yun in a difficult position.

Ji Yun confessed that if he had a choice, he would wish for Ji Wan'er not to be a caged bird in the palace in her next life. The next day, as Ji Wan'er prepared for her distant marriage, she made a solemn three-fold bow, expressing regret that she could not serve her parents in their later years, acknowledging herself as unfilial, and thanking them for giving her life and raising her.

From afar, the Empress lamented, feeling sorry for Ji Wan'er. An attendant announced it was time to depart. As the carriage began to move, Ru Jiao asked if Gong Yeqi would come, but Ji Wan'er only sighed. Ji Wan'er then instructed Ru Jiao to take one last look at Liang, believing they might never see their homeland again, and asked her to scoop up some soil as a keepsake.

On the way back, Hua Qingge wept in the carriage, distressed about Ji Wan'er's sacrifice and regretting the many things left unsaid. She worried that it was their last meeting, especially given her unpredictable return to her own world. Ji Chu comforted her, offering to take her to see Ji Wan'er if she wished. True to his word, he took her to catch up with the wedding procession.

Hua Qingge tearfully apologized to Ji Wan'er for not being able to help her. Ji Wan'er reassured Hua Qingge that she had nothing to apologize for, then turned to Ji Chu, urging him to take care of himself and assuring him she was no longer a child and could manage. Seeing that Gong Yeqi had not come, Ji Wan'er admitted she shouldn't have held onto hope.

She handed Ji Chu a farewell letter for Gong Yeqi, instructing him to deliver it only if Gong Yeqi showed up, otherwise to burn it. An attendant then pressed Ji Wan'er to depart to avoid missing the auspicious time. Ji Wan'er departed, while Ji Chu held a tearful Hua Qingge. Unbeknownst to Ji Wan'er, Gong Yeqi had indeed come to see her off, but hid in the shadows, unable to face her directly, knowing this parting was forever.

Later, Ji Chu approached Gong Yeqi and mentioned that he knew Gong Yeqi had seen Ji Wan'er off. Gong Yeqi, feigning disinterest, tried to leave, but Ji Chu stopped him and gave him Ji Wan'er's farewell letter. Gong Yeqi took the letter and later, while drinking alone, initially tore it but then immediately regretted it and reread it.

In her letter, Ji Wan'er spoke of their encounters, reflecting on the inexplicable heartache she felt upon first meeting him, which she later understood to be the stirrings of love. She absolved him of any debt, seeing through his carefree facade to acknowledge that he was not heartless. She likened their relationship to "Zhuangzi's dream of the butterfly," an indistinct yet cherished experience, and declared no regrets over their shared "dream."

She concluded by wishing him well, accepting that their fate, whether happy or sad, was unavoidable. Reading her heartfelt words, Gong Yeqi was overcome with tears, wishing for a next life where he would not forsake her again. The Emperor gazed at a painting, remembering Imperial Consort Xian on the anniversary of her death. He had secretly hidden her portrait in the imperial library, indicating her enduring place in his heart.

He silently pondered if she would blame him, knowing he could not openly honor her on her special day. Later, Ji Chu and Hua Qingge were together when Hua Qingge asked Ji Chu if he remembered the day. He replied that he did, as it was the anniversary of his mother, Imperial Consort Xian's, passing. That night, Ji Chu was tormented by a nightmare, reliving a traumatic childhood memory.

In his dream, he saw his mother, Imperial Consort Xian, comforting him with a lullaby after his father scolded him, reassuring him of his father's high expectations. The dream then shifted to a terrifying scene where his mother was taken away by guards, and he screamed, perceiving them as demons. Waking with a start, he found Hua Qingge by his side, who gently asked if he had a nightmare, to which he replied that he dreamt of his mother.

Remembering the lullaby Imperial Consort Xian used to sing to comfort a young Ji Chu in the novel, Hua Qingge softly began to sing the same children's rhyme: "When the green willows sway, play the diabolo. When the willows wither, play the jianzi. When the willows lush, play the spinning top." Ji Chu, surprised, asked how she knew the rhyme, and she continued to sing, hoping to ease his distress.

Episode 31 Recap

Ji Chu woke to find Hua Qingge lying beside him, still in his arms, causing them both a moment of embarrassment. Meanwhile, the Empress met with the Duke, feigning concern for her in-laws. She inquired if he had recently seen Lin Xiyao, but the Duke responded that a married daughter is like spilled water, and it would be inappropriate for an official to frequently visit the Crown Princess.

The Empress then made it clear that Crown Princess Lin Xiyao's standing directly affected his own. Using his daughter as leverage, the Empress persuaded the Duke to agree to her terms. Later, in the Emperor’s study, the Empress discovered a painting of Imperial Consort Xian. Her jealousy flared, and just then, the Emperor walked in. He immediately dismissed the Empress, who, although displeased, dared not argue further.

Feeling a rising sense of crisis, the Empress realized the Emperor still cherished Imperial Consort Xian, evidenced by the preserved painting. Remembering she still possessed some Demon Poison, she began plotting anew. She confided in her maid that the Emperor must have already doubted Imperial Consort Xian was a demon, but she intended to make the world believe it, thereby stripping Ji Chu of any claim to the throne.

Ji Wan'er's escort procession was suddenly ambushed by a group of bandits. Ji Wan'er sensed danger, and soon her maid, Ru Jiao, confirmed their worst fears: they were under attack. Ru Jiao bravely shielded Ji Wan'er inside the carriage as the guards were brutally slain, leaving the princess in grave peril. The Emperor, having earlier scolded the Empress, later sent her many precious jewels as a gesture of apology.

However, the unexpected arrival of Ji Wan'er's personal maid, Ru Jiao, shattered the peace. Crying hysterically, Ru Jiao reported that Ji Wan'er had been killed by savage bandits near Liang’s border and her remains were on their way. Ji Chu soon received the same devastating news from his subordinates, a conversation Hua Qingge overheard from outside. Hua Qingge initially refused to believe it, but upon seeing Ji Wan'er's personal effects, she completely broke down.

The Empress, too, was overcome with grief, unable to comprehend her daughter's tragic fate. Gong Yeqi also learned of Ji Wan'er's death. Enraged, he confronted Ji Chu, accusing him of having multiple opportunities to save Ji Wan'er but choosing not to, thus making him complicit in her death. Gong Yeqi vowed to personally seek revenge, and a fight ensued between the two men. Ji Chu, though injured, worried about Gong Yeqi's more serious wounds.

In her palace, the Empress was inconsolable, consumed by guilt that her schemes had led to her daughter's demise. She cried until she fainted. The Emperor, witnessing the tragedy, blamed himself for failing to protect his own children. Ji Yun stayed by his mother’s side, comforting her. The Empress, still mourning, asked him to ensure Ji Wan'er was dressed in thick clothes for her burial, as she was always afraid of the cold.

Ji Yun questioned why they couldn't live peacefully with Ji Chu. The Empress explained her fear that Imperial Consort Xian would usurp her position, and consequently, Ji Chu would take Ji Yun’s place. She urged Ji Yun to seize the throne, asserting that otherwise, she would be at everyone's mercy. Ji Yun reassured her, promising his protection. Upon returning to his residence, Ji Yun found Lin Xiyao patiently waiting for him.

Despite his neglect of her since their marriage, she had never complained, and he felt a pang of tenderness for her. Hua Qingge, bandaging Ji Chu’s wounds, wished their relationship could return to its former simplicity, but acknowledged that it was too late. Nanyi arrived with medicine, and Ji Chu informed her that Ji Wan'er’s death had left Prime Minister Li isolated, paving the way for Nanyi’s swift return to her homeland. Nanyi expressed her gratitude to Ji Chu.

The next morning, Hua Qingge woke to find her room locked. Her maid, Mo Yu, informed her that Ji Chu wanted her to rest and not attend Ji Wan'er’s funeral, fearing the emotional toll it would take. Just then, Gong Yeqi appeared and offered to take Hua Qingge to "watch a show." At Ji Wan'er’s funeral, Ji Chu had meticulously prepared everything, ensuring his father's safety.

His attendant noted that keeping Hua Qingge away was a wise decision, anticipating potential complications if Gong Yeqi chose that day to act. The Emperor, Empress, and Ji Yun arrived to pay their respects. The Empress, still feigning disbelief, found it difficult to accept Ji Wan'er's death, while the Emperor openly expressed his sorrow and sought his daughter's forgiveness. Suddenly, a silver needle struck Ji Yun's neck, causing his vision to blur.

The Empress, who had intended the Demon Poison for Ji Chu, was horrified to see her own son collapse. Ji Yun became frantic, inadvertently pushing Lin Xiyao to the ground. Ji Chu immediately demanded that the Empress produce the Demon Poison. Desperate to save Ji Yun, the Empress quickly complied.

Ji Chu then revealed that he had deliberately misled her, claiming the Demon Poison was also an antidote, knowing it was the only way to force her to hand it over. He then administered the true antidote to Ji Yun. Seeing Ji Yun’s frenzied state and his attempt to harm Ji Chu, Hua Qingge bravely stepped forward to protect Ji Chu.

The Emperor, now fully aware that the Empress was the mastermind behind the tragedy, ordered her to be confined to her palace indefinitely. The Empress protested, begging for a chance to explain, but her pleas were ignored. Ji Chu then explained the full truth to his father: the Empress was responsible for his mother's death fifteen years prior, and her actions today provided irrefutable evidence.

He revealed that he obtained the antidote from Physician Su’s son, who likely developed it after creating the poison. Ji Chu implored his father to finally clear his mother's name. The Emperor produced an imperial decree, written some days prior, announcing his abdication of the throne to Crown Prince Ji Yun, and his intention to live as the Retired Emperor.

The decree also posthumously bestowed the title "Imperial Concubine Tai Ming" upon Imperial Consort Xian, granting her the honor of being buried alongside him in the Imperial Tomb after his passing. Ji Chu thanked his father for finally restoring his mother's dignity.

Episode 32 Recap

When questioned by a subordinate about his reluctance despite His Majesty's generous terms, Ji Chu expressed his lingering concerns. He believed that if the Empress remained alive, Ji Yun, upon ascending to the throne, would inevitably rescue her, allowing her to resume her nefarious activities. He despaired that his efforts might not alter this predestined outcome. Meanwhile, the Empress, now aware of Ji Chu's machinations that had exposed her, found herself unfazed.

She declared to her attendant that with Yun by her side, she felt no fear, despite her predicament. Lin Xiyao diligently nursed Ji Yun back to health. Upon regaining consciousness, Ji Yun immediately inquired about his mother, learning she was under house arrest by His Majesty. He insisted on seeing her, but Lin Xiyao gently urged him to rest, assuring him that his mother would be fine.

Ji Yun then reflected on his actions, asking if he was experiencing poetic justice. He confessed that his mother's misdeeds stemmed from his own existence, wishing Ji Chu had ended his life. He lamented his failure to sway his mother and protect Ji Wan'er. Lin Xiyao then revealed her suspicions about Ji Wan'er's supposed corpse.

She noted that the body did not appear to have been dead for three days and bore a fresh, heart-shaped scar on its foot, contradicting the long-standing childhood scar Ji Wan'er was known to have. Ji Yun confirmed the scar's history, leading them to conclude that the body might not be Ji Wan'er's at all, with Lin Xiyao speculating that Prince Lv had orchestrated her "death" to grant her freedom from the marriage to Prime Minister Li.

Ji Yun instructed Lin Xiyao to keep this discovery secret. Elsewhere, Ji Chu pondered his own victory, feeling no satisfaction despite achieving his long-sought revenge after more than a decade of meticulous planning. That night, Gongye Qi was startled by a white-clad figure outside his Yinyue Residence. The figure revealed herself to be Ji Wan'er, alive and well. Overwhelmed, Gongye Qi questioned how she managed to escape death. Ji Wan'er recounted how, during her wedding procession, "bandits" intercepted them.

Ji Chu's men, disguised as these bandits, replaced her with a corpse of similar build and age. They inflicted a fresh heart-shaped scar on the corpse's foot to mimic her old injury, ensuring the deception. Ji Chu had foreseen her determination to marry and sent a message offering her a chance at a new, free life, away from the constraints of being a "caged bird."

He had also ensured her maid, Ru Jiao, was safely returned to report the false news of her death. Ji Wan'er, realizing she had misunderstood Chu's intentions, accepted this new beginning and returned to Liang with his men. Gongye Qi, having learned of her residence from Ji Chu, confessed his longings and apologized for pushing her away before, vowing never to do so again. Ji Wan'er, seeking closure, asked why he had been so resolute in leaving her.

Gongye Qi admitted he felt he couldn't give her happiness, but losing her made him realize she was the most important thing in the world. He then proposed, promising to devote his life to her happiness, though he chose to withhold the full truth about his past hatred and earlier departure, desiring to shield her from its scars. Ji Wan'er accepted, and they embraced, their love finally finding its way.

Wei Nanyi questioned Ji Chu about his unwavering decision regarding their plan. Ji Chu confirmed his resolve, stating he needed no retreat and had no regrets. He promised that he and Little Pumpkin could return home in a few days, thereby preventing His Majesty from harboring suspicions and stirring up trouble. Nanyi promised her support, urging him to quickly eliminate any remnants and manage official affairs in their home country, while assuring him not to worry too much about her.

An attendant reported that all preparations were made. Ji Chu instructed the attendant, Xiao Yan, to send the Fish-shaped Token to Nanyi discreetly to deploy troops at the border. Nanyi intervened, explaining that the Fish-shaped Token only commanded half the forces, suggesting Ji Chu use the title of First Princess's Prince Consort to gather full forces. Ji Chu firmly refused, stating half the troops would suffice and dismissing the suggestion as unnecessary, even for a mere false title.

Nanyi argued this was a dangerous gamble against the Dingguo Army, asking what he was up to. Suddenly, Hua Qingge, who had been listening outside, confronted Ji Chu, accusing him of escalating their conflict by publicly shaming Ji Yun and imprisoning the Empress. She questioned why he continued down a path of rebellion despite her efforts to prevent it.

Ji Chu retorted that his enemies would not spare him, and he needed to seize the initiative to gain the upper hand. Wei Nanyi stepped in, urging both of them to calm down, cautioning against hurtful words spoken in anger. Hua Qingge, feeling that her efforts to change Ji Chu's path were futile and her own time was short, instructed the attendant to proceed with deploying the troops. She lamented her inability to alter the outcome.

Wei Nanyi attempted to comfort Hua Qingge, suggesting Ji Chu's actions were out of necessity. Hua Qingge, however, retorted angrily, accusing Nanyi of being a sanctimonious 'white lotus' and asking if Nanyi would believe someone who killed her child but claimed love. Wei Nanyi, offended, reminded Hua Qingge not to criticize others' actions without experiencing their hardships.

Hua Qingge, expressing sarcasm and resignation, stated that Nanyi, as a childhood friend who could offer both emotional and political support, was a better fit for Ji Chu. She then declared she no longer wanted Ji Chu and offered him to Nanyi. Offended by Hua Qingge's disrespect for Ji Chu's feelings, Wei Nanyi retorted that Hua Qingge was unworthy of him.

Hua Qingge, resigned, stated she would be the "bad person" and act quickly, as her time was running out, preferring a swift end to prolonged suffering. Later that night, assassins dispatched by the Empress ambushed Ji Chu. Wei Nanyi intervened, saving Ji Chu, who sustained only a wrist injury.

Ji Chu subsequently reported to His Majesty that the assassins belonged to the same mysterious organization, Tiger Totem from Fuyu, that killed Prince Qi and acted under the Empress's orders, confirming her intention to eliminate all princes except the Crown Prince. His Majesty, enraged by the Empress's continued defiance despite her house arrest, declared such a vicious woman unworthy of mercy and ordered a decree to be issued.

Meanwhile, an attendant informed the confined Empress that they couldn't reach Ji Yun, but the Empress, confident in her ongoing assassination plot against the First Princess of Nanyi, believed Ji Chu would soon lose Nanyi's support and be unable to contend with Yun. Just then, Eunuch Li De arrived with a decree.

The Empress, hoping for release, instead learned she was being stripped of her title, confined to her chambers for life, and pardoned from death only out of His Majesty's twenty-year companionship. Her despair deepened as the eunuch delivered His Majesty's oral decree posthumously honoring Imperial Consort Xian with the title of Imperial Concubine Tai Ming and granting her a shared burial in the Imperial Tomb.

The Empress, utterly distraught, protested vehemently, refusing to allow Imperial Consort Xian this honor, before collapsing in anguish, crying that His Majesty no longer wanted her. Her loyal maid Pin Yan vowed to stay by her side. In his private study, His Majesty gazed at a portrait of Imperial Consort Xian, reflecting on his enduring love for her and the peace he now felt, no longer needing to feign affection for the Empress.

He recalled Imperial Consort Xian’s past wish that their son, Ji Chu, would never ascend to the throne, but instead live a peaceful and happy life, free from the burdens of power. His Majesty affirmed he had fulfilled his promise to her. Sometime later, Gongye Qi visited Ji Chu, making light of their previous altercation and offering some tonic for his injury.

He expressed gratitude to Ji Chu for orchestrating Ji Wan'er's return, and Ji Chu urged him to treat her well, to which Gongye Qi vowed to do so. Shortly after, Hua Qingge learned that Ji Wan'er was alive and enthusiastically wished to see her, but Wei Nanyi advised patience, explaining that Ji Chu had kept it secret for Ji Wan'er's safety, not because he considered Hua Qingge a liability. Gongye Qi arrived, bearing wedding invitations for himself and Ji Wan'er.

He confirmed he had relinquished his quest for revenge, choosing instead to prioritize Ji Wan'er's happiness and peaceful life, asking that she not be told of his past hatred. Overjoyed, Hua Qingge volunteered to plan an unforgettable wedding for them. The wedding ceremony proceeded with Gongye Qi and Ji Wan'er exchanging heartfelt vows, celebrating their love and new beginning. Gongye Qi promised to cherish and never leave Ji Wan'er, while Ji Wan'er asked for honesty and no more departures. After the ceremony, Ji Chu attempted to hold Hua Qingge's hand, but she gently pulled away.

Episode 33 Recap

Hua Qingge deliberately told Ji Chu that they would not be happy together, acting resolute and declaring it would be better for them to part ways on good terms. Ji Chu, confused, attempted to explain his actions regarding Ji Wan'er, but Hua Qingge dismissed him, stating it was not his first time hiding secrets from her.

She refused to open the door, telling him to leave and not ruin her mood on the eve of Ji Wan'er and Gong Yeqi's wedding. Unbeknownst to Ji Chu, Hua Qingge was contemplating her own impending disappearance. She felt that if she remained by Ji Chu's side, she would only become a burden, and she didn't want him to suffer because of her.

She believed leaving him now was the best option for both of them, even if it meant letting him see her as a heartless woman. Meanwhile, Ji Yun knelt outside his father, His Majesty's, hall, enduring a heavy rain. A eunuch, Li De, offered him an umbrella, but Ji Yun refused it. He begged His Majesty to pardon his mother, the empress, highlighting her two decades of loyalty and service.

Li De tried to dissuade him, saying His Majesty refused to see him and that his efforts were in vain. Lin Xiyao soon joined Ji Yun, kneeling beside him despite the harsh conditions. Ji Yun urged her to leave, concerned for her health, but she insisted she did not suffer when she was with him.

Eventually, His Majesty emerged and agreed to visit the empress another time, but he reprimanded Ji Yun for his reckless behavior as the Crown Prince, stating it was a disappointment. Back in his residence, Ji Chu drowned his sorrows in alcohol, still recovering from an injury. Wei Nanyi, observing his despair, noted she had never seen him so emotional except for when it concerned his birth mother.

Ji Chu questioned why Hua Qingge would leave him, especially after he promised not to seek revenge on the empress. Wei Nanyi asked if he was so fixated on Hua Qingge. Ji Chu confirmed his unwavering devotion, stating it had to be her. Wei Nanyi confessed that seeing Ji Chu risk his life for her had given her hope, but Ji Chu clarified that his injury was merely a part of his ploy.

Wei Nanyi lamented that he didn't even give her a chance to fantasize, but Ji Chu reiterated that he didn't want to mislead her, especially not Hua Qingge. Wei Nanyi then revealed that Hua Qingge was deliberately trying to infuriate him and that she knew where Hua Qingge was. Ji Chu immediately set off to find her. However, he was too late; his subordinates reported that all of Hua Qingge's belongings were gone, and she had vanished.

Alone on the streets at night, Hua Qingge found herself accosted by a drunken man. She fended him off with a stick, but just as he grew aggressive, Ji Chu arrived and knocked him unconscious. Ji Chu demanded to know why she was out alone. Hua Qingge asked why he kept pursuing her, reminding him that their relationship was a conspiracy and that she was merely a spy sent by the empress, who should have been dead already.

Ji Chu insisted that he was wrong before but could not live without her now, dismissing her status as a spy as irrelevant. Hua Qingge maintained that they were a doomed pair and that he and Wei Nanyi, his childhood friend, were a more suitable match. Despite her words, Ji Chu pulled her into a kiss, proclaiming that he had never loved any woman but her and that she was the only one in his heart.

During their embrace, Hua Qingge noticed her hand becoming transparent. She tried to pull away, but Ji Chu, unable to grasp her, realized she was turning translucent. Hua Qingge then revealed her true origin, explaining she was not from this world and was an outsider from another realm, destined to leave soon and never return.

Ji Chu, struggling to accept this, tried to rationalize her statement by suggesting she was from Fuyu, promising to take her there or even make it the capital of Liang. Hua Qingge insisted he misunderstood. Ji Chu, blaming his past cold and unpredictable behavior, offered to change if she would just stop talking about leaving. When Hua Qingge questioned if he would continue to deny the truth, Ji Chu tearfully asked how much time she had left.

Hua Qingge admitted she did not know, but Ji Chu adamantly declared that no matter who she was or where she came from, he would never allow her to leave him. Some time later, Wei Nanyi and Xiao Nangua prepared to depart. Hua Qingge jokingly remarked that she was finally free of Wei Nanyi, who retorted the same. Wei Nanyi thanked Hua Qingge for her kindness and expressed hope for a future reunion.

Hua Qingge, however, admitted she doubted they would ever see each other again. Wei Nanyi then turned to Ji Chu, advising him to cherish the present, as the future was uncertain. Ji Chu reassured them about the secret protection provided for their journey disguised as farmers. Wei Nanyi and Xiao Nangua bid farewell, leaving Ji Chu to lament the impending quietness of the palace without the "brat." Hua Qingge, still in Ji Chu's company, felt smothered by his constant presence.

He kept her by his side, even holding her while reviewing state memorials, which made her blush. He then asked her to bear his child. Hua Qingge, caught off guard, stammered a response, but Ji Chu persisted, prompting her for a "yes." Hua Qingge internally wondered about Ji Chu's obsession with a child, thinking he might be trying to tie her down. She worried about how she could give birth, given her uncertain timeline and eventual disappearance.

She reflected on her initial desire to return to her own world but now found herself reluctant to leave. She resolved to cherish her remaining time in Liang, living without regrets. That night, Hua Qingge nervously waited for Ji Chu, pondering her attire for their intimate evening. Ji Chu walked in, surprising her, and revealed he had overheard her musings.

He then made a "small request": for her to address him as "Husband," as she had only ever called him by name. Hua Qingge, finding the request surprisingly simple, lovingly called him "Husband" multiple times, satisfying him. They finally formally consummated their relationship. Two months later, Hua Qingge was overjoyed to learn that Ji Wan'er was pregnant. Ji Wan'er was surprised that Ji Chu was now cooking, attributing his change to Hua Qingge's positive influence.

Hua Qingge, in turn, teased Ji Wan'er about Gong Yeqi being a "wife-slave." Ji Chu confirmed that the empress had been kept in line and that he had promised Hua Qingge to forgive her. Gong Yeqi acknowledged that the empress was Ji Wan'er's mother and agreed to let go of his past grievances.

He noted that Ji Chu had abandoned years of strategic planning for Hua Qingge, and warned that Ji Yun might become wary of him once he ascended the throne. Ji Chu stated his intention to ask His Majesty for permission to leave Liang in a few days, wanting to lead a secluded life with Hua Qingge, away from the troubles of the world, and spend the rest of their days in peace.

Gong Yeqi optimistically told him they had plenty of time together. Meanwhile, Lin Xiyao continued to attend to Ji Yun. His attendant reported that Princess Ji Wan'er had been found safe and sound. Not only was she married to Gong Yeqi, but she also appeared to be pregnant. Ji Yun was deeply relieved and happy to hear the news. When asked if they should inform the empress, Ji Yun decided against it, choosing instead to let Ji Wan'er live the life she desired.

Episode 34 Recap

Lin Xiyao visited Ji Wan'er, who was delighted to see her old friend. Ji Wan'er happily showed Lin Xiyao their home, including where Gong Yeqi works on his herbal medicine, her collection of classics, and their plans to convert a room into a children's bedroom when their child grows older. She expressed how content she was and then asked Lin Xiyao how she had been. Lin Xiyao assured her that she was doing well.

Lin Xiyao apologized for the pain her fake death had caused but explained it was a desperate measure. Ji Wan'er understood and was relieved to know Lin Xiyao was still alive, expressing joy at their reunion. Ji Wan'er commented to Lin Xiyao that it must have been difficult for her and Gong Yeqi to finally be together, suggesting that Gong Yeqi must have truly let go of the past. Lin Xiyao's hesitant reaction made Ji Wan'er suspicious.

Ji Wan'er explained that she still had a knot in her heart about why Gong Yeqi had pushed her away initially and pressed Lin Xiyao to reveal the secret. When Gong Yeqi returned, carrying a rabbit for Ji Wan'er, he found her distraught. Ji Wan'er declared her intention to leave, revealing that she knew the Empress was responsible for the massacre of his entire family.

She questioned why he had married her despite this, given that it was the reason he had initially tried to push her away. Gong Yeqi embraced her, assuring her that the past was behind him and that he had truly let it go. He believed the Empress's house arrest was a just punishment for her.

He emphasized how precious their current peaceful life was, a life he had never even dared to imagine before, and promised that everything would be fine. Ji Wan'er, deeply moved, sobbed in his arms. Later, Lin Xiyao, feeling uneasy, confessed to Ji Yun that she had inadvertently revealed the Empress's past actions concerning Gong Yeqi's family to Ji Wan'er during her visit.

Ji Yun reassured her, stating that it was a truth Ji Wan'er and Gong Yeqi would eventually have to confront. He believed that if either of them couldn't let go, there would be no peace in their future, so it was good that Ji Wan'er knew in advance.

Lin Xiyao still felt she had spoken out of turn, but Ji Yun told her not to blame herself, trusting that Gong Yeqi's sincerity meant he would take good care of Ji Wan'er. Ji Yun reflected that with Ji Chu and Gong Yeqi having reconciled and the Empress confined to atone for her past misdeeds, this was indeed the best possible outcome.

His Majesty, having been too busy with official duties to keep his promise to Ji Yun, finally prepared to visit the Empress. He was pleased to hear that Ji Chu had volunteered to guard the border, noting that it fulfilled Imperial Consort Xian’s last wish. He expressed hope that after his abdication, Ji Yun and Ji Chu would live in peace.

Upon entering the Empress's chamber, he found her transcribing the Heart Sutra as an act of penance for her sins. Noticing the dim lighting, he ordered more candles and some food and wine to be brought. The Empress expressed surprise that he had come to see her. His Majesty explained he was fulfilling his promise to Ji Yun and seeing her one last time out of consideration for their many years of marriage.

He assured her she would be well-fed and clothed for the rest of her life in confinement but firmly stated that their marital bond was now completely severed. The Empress admitted her actions were due to her being confused and that she deserved her fate, lamenting that she had also dragged Ji Yun down with her.

His Majesty then confronted her, recalling her elaborate plan to create the illusion of a demon fox, which caused him to mistakenly believe Imperial Consort Xian was a demon. He accused her of causing Imperial Consort Xian's unjust death and harming Ji Chu for many years. The Empress conceded that what was done could not be changed. She announced that this would be their last meal together, symbolizing all their past entanglements in the wine.

She vowed to recite sutras daily for Imperial Consort Xian and pray for Prince Lv. When His Majesty initially refused to drink, the Empress offered to drink alone, passionately declaring her genuine love for him over the past two decades. She stated that all her wrongdoings were simply to win his affection and desperately asked if he had ever truly loved her, even for a moment.

After a long pause, His Majesty agreed to drink the last cup with her, and she thanked him. The Empress then reminisced about her early days in the palace, how His Majesty had built a special courtyard for her to play shuttlecock. She recounted how, during His Majesty's marriage proposal trip to Fuyu, she was the one playing shuttlecock, not her elder sister who was originally meant for the marriage alliance with Liang.

She remembered him complimenting her as graceful and that it was the moment he "took root" in her heart. As the Emperor began to succumb to the poison, he realized the truth and accused her. The Empress, Hua Yunni, calmly confirmed the poisoning, assuring him it would not be fatal but would leave him permanently bedridden and without sobriety for the rest of his life. She declared she would stay by his side forever.

As the Emperor collapsed, his head eunuch cried out that he had already prepared a decree to abdicate in favor of the Crown Prince. The Empress remarked that this simply saved her some effort and ordered the room to be cleaned up. Meanwhile, Ji Chu was enjoying a sweet moment with Hua Qingge, discussing their upcoming move to the beautiful frontier. Hua Qingge playfully agreed to follow him, saying meeting him was the result of accumulating much good luck.

Ji Chu asked if she would stay with him forever if their story never ended, referring to her earlier statement about leaving when the story concluded. Hua Qingge, with a hint of her modern background, pointed out a "one-kilowatt bulb" in the vicinity. Suddenly, an attendant rushed in to inform Ji Chu of a grave situation at the palace. Hua Qingge felt an ominous sense that the "real finale" was upon them.

Ji Chu rushed to his father’s chamber, pushing past guards, only to find the Emperor comatose and unresponsive. He was enraged at the Empress for harming His Majesty. Just then, Ji Yun arrived, telling his mother not to worry and accepting the throne, stating he had "no way back." The Empress expressed her relief that Ji Yun understood the situation.

Ji Yun then confronted Ji Chu, declaring that this was their last time to speak as brothers, and from tomorrow, he would be the emperor and Ji Chu the subject. Ji Chu condemned Ji Yun's hypocrisy and his choice to defend "this evil woman," finding it even more disappointing. Ji Yun retorted that he had always tolerated Ji Chu in the past, hoping they could get along, but Ji Chu had always pushed him and trampled his goodwill underfoot.

Ji Yun declared he would no longer tolerate it and defended his actions as protecting his mother. Ji Chu questioned him about their father, who had been prepared to abdicate and pass the throne to Ji Yun. He asked why Ji Yun could not wait even a few days. Ji Yun dismissed this, asserting that since his father had already decided to abdicate, it made no difference if it happened a few days early.

Ji Chu warned Ji Yun that he would regret his actions today. As Ji Chu attempted to leave, he was surrounded by guards. Ji Yun, however, intervened, telling the guards to back off. He explained to his mother that killing Ji Chu in the palace right before his coronation would invite criticism.

While acknowledging Ji Chu's cunning, Ji Yun confidently stated that with Liang's Dingguo Army under their control and the Southern territory's troops being out of reach, Ji Chu posed no threat. The Empress instructed her maid, Pin Yan, to see Ji Chu out of the palace. The Empress then praised Ji Yun for being "clear-headed." Ji Yun expressed that he had lost so much, and protecting his mother was his "last wish."

The Empress corrected him, reminding him he had the entire Liang empire and would become "a great ruler," assuring him that everything would be fine. Ji Yun agreed and excused himself to prepare for his coronation, asking his mother to care for their father.

After Ji Yun departed, the Empress instructed Pin Yan to relay a message to Duke Dingguo, emphasizing that because the Crown Prince was merciful, the commander's token should not be handed over to him until all matters were settled.

Episode 35 Recap

Hua Qingge, worried about Ji Chu, wondered if he had been detained by the empress. She then received a mysterious letter and left. Shortly after, Ji Chu returned to find her gone. Upon learning that his maid, Mo Yu, was accompanying her to Jingzhi Library, Ji Chu felt a measure of relief.

Ji Chu was informed by a subordinate about the tight security: the palace gates and Shengjing streets were heavily guarded by approximately 1,000 Dingguo Army soldiers, all under the empress's control. His subordinate expressed concern about rescuing His Majesty, given Ji Yun's cooperation with the empress. Ji Chu inquired about their available forces, learning they had 300 soldiers and 52 Fenglin Guards. He explained that His Majesty was confined in Xuanze Hall, in the palace's center.

The fastest route was through Anli Gate and Tianhua Street. Although his subordinate warned that the empress had heavily guarded this path, Ji Chu decided to take it, using the strategy of creating a diversion by personally leading his men down Tianhua Street to draw the enemy's attention. Lin Xiyao arrived at the hall and found Ji Yun sitting alone, clearly troubled. She informed him that she had completed the task he had given her.

Despite her efforts, Ji Yun remained unhappy. He confided in Lin Xiyao, questioning his own character. He explained that he used to believe he was an ideal person—a "white moonlight"—liked by everyone, especially after Hua Qingge's praise. However, after recent events, he felt he had disappointed Hua Qingge and realized he was not as good as he once thought.

Lin Xiyao reassured him, saying that an ideal person isn't someone everyone loves, as everyone faces different struggles and it's impossible to understand another's pain without being in their shoes. She affirmed that no matter his role—be it the head of the East Office, the current crown prince, the future emperor, or even an ordinary zither player—he would always be her ideal man. She urged him not to blame himself and to rectify any mistakes.

Ji Yun then shared his true wish: not for a stable country or peaceful world, but for the simple freedom his sister, Ji Wan'er, had found. He expressed joy that Ji Wan'er had achieved her dream of living outside the palace, a freedom he had previously discouraged by reminding her of her royal identity. Ji Yun believed Ji Chu was more suited for the throne than he was, regretting that his mother and father couldn't see this.

Lin Xiyao promised to stay by his side wherever he went, and Ji Yun thanked her. The next morning, Ji Yun's accession ceremony took place. However, Gong Yeqi and Ji Wan'er observed the strangely empty streets, which were instead filled with an unusual number of Dingguo Army soldiers. Gong Yeqi surmised that something had gone awry in the palace.

When they were stopped by soldiers enforcing martial law, Ji Wan'er cunningly used knockout powder from Gong Yeqi's medicine kit to incapacitate them. She speculated that the empress was likely behind the palace's unrest and, believing Ji Yun would not take such initiative, feared for Ji Chu's safety. Knowing Gong Yeqi's loyalty to Ji Chu, Ji Wan'er urged him to take a guard's uniform for easier movement and to go help him.

She insisted on waiting for Gong Yeqi at Jingzhi Library, assuring him she could protect herself and their child. Hua Qingge awoke to find herself and Mo Yu, her maid, being taken out of the city. She discovered a letter of divorce and a box of jewelry, realizing Ji Chu had arranged for her to be sent to the border for her safety, assuming she would prefer freedom or to wait for him there.

Outraged that Ji Chu had made such a decision without consulting her, Hua Qingge demanded the carriage turn back to Shengjing. When the coachman ignored her, she tried to force Mo Yu to intervene by threatening to harm herself with a hairpin. Mo Yu, having been told by Ji Chu that Hua Qingge was too "spoiled" to actually hurt herself, remained steadfast. However, when Hua Qingge actually pricked herself with the hairpin, Mo Yu was shocked.

That evening, Ji Chu, with his men, prepared to storm the palace. To his surprise, Gong Yeqi appeared, stating he was there to "watch the fun," having already sent Ji Wan'er to Jingzhi Library. Ji Chu questioned his presence, fearing for his safety, and explained his strategy to take Tianhua Street to draw the empress's attention. Gong Yeqi insisted on playing a role, so Ji Chu gave him a letter containing secret instructions.

After reading it, Gong Yeqi, while declaring his intent to personally kill the empress to avenge his family, was convinced by Ji Chu's plan. He agreed to take the third route to Xuanze Hall to rescue His Majesty and use his medical skills to detoxify him. Ji Chu then ordered his subordinate, Xiao Yan, to lead a team disguised as Dingguo Army through Anfu Gate and Yongning Street, coordinating with Gong Yeqi's third route to rescue their father.

Meanwhile, the Empress Dowager continued her pretense of caring for His Majesty, assuring him that once the night's events concluded, she would accompany him to Xing'an Palace, leaving the main palace to Ji Yun. The Duke of Dingguo then arrived, reporting that Ji Chu had indeed entered Tianhua Street, as predicted. He confirmed that the path was now sealed, trapping Ji Chu and his men "like a turtle in a jar," awaiting their demise.

The Empress Dowager acknowledged Ji Chu's boldness but, anticipating his diversionary strategy, ordered the Duke to maintain strict vigilance and search for any other infiltrators. She instructed him to hold onto the commander's token until Ji Chu was dead that night, only then to give it to Ji Yun. Later, Ji Yun secretly entrusted an imperial decree to Lin Xiyao for safekeeping.

He then invited the Empress Dowager to the Grand Hall for a meal, a clear sign of his own preparations. Undeterred, Hua Qingge and Mo Yu disguised themselves as palace maids to infiltrate the palace. They were soon challenged by guards, whom Mo Yu expertly fought off. Just as they were about to be overwhelmed, Gong Yeqi intervened, rescuing them. He expressed surprise at seeing Hua Qingge there, as Ji Chu had arranged to send her out of the city.

Hua Qingge then explained her presence, revealing that Mo Yu had initially refused to help her return. However, during their journey, Mo Yu witnessed Hua Qingge's body begin to turn transparent—a sign of her fading from this world. Moved by Hua Qingge's plea to spend her remaining time with Ji Chu, Mo Yu agreed to help her sneak back into the palace.

Gong Yeqi shared that he was there to rescue His Majesty on Ji Chu's orders, while Hua Qingge's primary objective was to find Ji Chu. Gong Yeqi provided Hua Qingge with a map, and they then parted ways to pursue their respective missions.

Episode 36 (Ending) Recap

In the Grand Hall, Ji Yun poured a cup of wine for the Empress. She declined, stating she was not to drink that night. Ji Yun, aware of her deep mistrust and perhaps sensing her hesitation, remembering how she had once poisoned the Emperor in a similar fashion, then drank the wine himself. This was a gesture of thanks for all she had done for him.

He questioned why she had become so distrustful, even of him, but she feigned ignorance, asking what he meant. Meanwhile, Gong Yeqi and his men, disguised as guards, infiltrated Xuanze Hall under the pretense of a shift change, easily dispatching the existing guards. Gong Yeqi, while having a personal vendetta against Emperor Xuanqi for harming the Su family, spared his life as instructed by Ji Yun.

He provided medicine that would revive the Emperor in two days, stating he did not want his wife, Ji Wan'er, to lose her father. He then departed to join the escalating conflict. Back in the Grand Hall, Ji Chu entered, prepared to face the Empress, Hua Yunni, declaring that his hatred would only be appeased by her death. Ji Yun revealed to the Empress that he had deliberately brought her there.

She accused him of betrayal, to which he retorted that she had lost all trust, making betrayal a moot point. He recounted her past atrocities, including the murder of Feng and Imperial Consort Xian, forcing Ji Wan'er's marriage, and now moving against the Emperor. He asked if he, too, was an outsider in her eyes.

The Empress asserted that all her actions were for him to gain the throne, but Ji Yun countered that she had never truly considered what he desired. Earlier, in a conversation with Lin Xiyao, Ji Yun had expressed a longing for a life beyond the palace, similar to Ji Wan'er's desire for freedom, and felt Ji Chu was better suited to rule.

Ji Yun stepped forward, blocking Ji Chu from his mother, proclaiming that "a son must pay his mother's debts." Ji Chu accused Ji Yun of protecting the Empress and threatened to kill him first. As the two brothers clashed, the Empress attempted to escape but was intercepted by Gong Yeqi, who still harbored deep-seated resentment for the Su family's ruin. Just as Gong Yeqi moved to strike her, Ji Wan'er suddenly intervened, shielding her mother and taking the fatal blow.

She collapsed, her clothes soaked in blood. Gong Yeqi desperately tried to save her, reminding her of their future, but Ji Wan'er apologized for deceiving him and confessed she could not abandon her mother. With her dying breath, she pleaded with the Empress to spare Ji Yun and implored Gong Yeqi to abandon his hatred and live freely. Ji Chu was distraught to see Hua Qingge in the bloody scene and demanded to know what had happened.

The Empress, undeterred by Ji Wan'er's death, seized Hua Qingge as a hostage, demanding Ji Chu's life for Hua Qingge's. Ji Yun tried to reason with his mother, reminding her that Qing was her niece and questioning her role in Ji Wan'er's death. Ji Chu offered his life, but Hua Qingge, aware she was about to return to her own world and stating she wouldn't die, stopped him.

She playfully called him a "scumbag" for an earlier threat of divorce, then declared she was "divorcing" him first, adding she'd rather be a scumbag to him than be scumbagged by him. She explained she didn't want him to cry returning to her world. With her final words, she expressed her joy at meeting him, urged him to be a good man and not to become evil again, and asked him to never forget her.

Hua Qingge then fatally stabbed herself, disappearing as she died, leaving only her bracelet behind. Ji Chu, heartbroken, held the bracelet, remembering their shared moments, her playful words, and her confession of being an outsider. He cried out her name in anguish. The novelist, waking from a dream, decided to write a new ending. In this revised story, on the day of his enthronement, Ji Yun purposefully took poison to atone for his mother's sins.

He left an imperial decree for Lin Xiyao to deliver to the Empress, instructing that the throne be passed to Ji Chu. Ji Yun explained that he was finally letting go of his burden. The Empress was consumed by grief over her son's death and was confined to Fengyi Palace. Overwhelmed by her suffering, she ultimately chose to hang herself, realizing that her lifetime of schemes had left her with nothing but loss.

Fortunately, Gong Yeqi intervened and saved Ji Yun, who then chose a life of peaceful seclusion with Lin Xiyao at Melodious Serenity Abode. Gong Yeqi, however, never truly recovered from Ji Wan'er's death and often drowned his sorrows in alcohol. Under Gong Yeqi's treatment, Emperor Xuanqi was saved but remained bedridden, leading him to abdicate in favor of the third prince, Ji Chu. Ji Chu, now Emperor Xian De, ruled over a flourishing age of Liang.

He deeply missed Hua Qingge (Qing), confiding in his attendant, Xiao Yan, that his greatest wish was to quickly pass from this life so he could visit her world. Out of devotion, Emperor Xian De never took an empress and eventually died peacefully of old age. In the modern world, the novelist, Ms. Hua, submitted her script. Her editor praised it as a potential blockbuster. A secretary then informed her that the company's boss was very interested in meeting her.

Ms. Hua politely declined, citing a new laptop purchase that left her broke and another appointment. As she left, she encountered the boss, who bore an uncanny resemblance to Ji Chu. He called her Hua Qingge and asked if she intended to abandon him, confirming that Ji Chu had indeed followed her to her modern world.