Dr. Cutie Recap, Plot, Synopsis

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Dr. Cutie Synopsis

Tian Qi is working as a doctor in the Imperial Hospital, but by mistake, he is transferred to the military commissioner‘s mansion, which leads to a series of embarrassing incidents.

One is a money-loving, cute doctor and the other is a cold-faced, cool military commissioner.

The master and servant have frequent conflicts. The young marquis Ji Zheng, who accidentally discovered Tian Qi is a girl, is also attracted to her. A hilarious and misplaced love begins!

Dr. Cutie Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

Shen Zhaoer, a young woman disguised as a male doctor named Tian Qi, hysterically crying at the funeral of Infanta Shuncheng in Mansion Ji. Although appearing profoundly grief-stricken, Tian Qi internally bemoans the significant debt she incurred to secure her position serving the Infanta, who was destined to become the Jiedushi's wife. Other servants observe her exaggerated display of emotion, noting that Tian Qi is rumored to be an unlucky star.

They recall that despite successfully treating patients, they often die mysteriously afterward, yet Tian Qi paradoxically receives promotions, leading some to believe her dramatic wailing appeases the deceased and brings her good fortune. Her fervent crying eventually causes the Infanta's coffin to collapse. Two months prior, Tian Qi, a talented medical officer, had fabricated a story about being an "unlucky star" (天煞孤星) to avoid a promotion to imperial doctor.

He claimed that despite successfully treating patients for ailments like chronic leg pain, gastric issues, and impotence, they inexplicably died shortly after due to bizarre accidents (falling off a horse, choking on a tangyuan, or dying of pleasure in a brothel). His master, Ding Zhi, initially chastised her for rejecting such an honor. However, Tian Qi, with clever flattery, managed to borrow 200 guan from him, which he then used to bribe officials on her behalf.

This manipulation successfully secured her a coveted position as Infanta Shuncheng's personal physician in Mansion Ji. On the day Ji Heng, the Jiedushi of Army Anton, returned triumphantly from battle, a grand celebratory banquet was held in his mansion. Kang Ninger, Ji Heng's cousin, openly expressed her disdain for Infanta Shuncheng's late arrival and dismissively referred to her as "Miss Patient," though she curbed her direct remarks once Ji Heng made his entrance.

Known as the "Devil of War" for his cold and unpredictable nature and undefeated record, Ji Heng was in high spirits following his victory. He respectfully invited Infanta Shuncheng, his imperial-appointed fiancée, to sit beside him. As the entertainment began, Tian Qi, who had been advising the Infanta on how to best catch Ji Heng's eye, attempted to pour wine for him. However, she was intentionally tripped by a maid, causing her to fall into Ji Heng's arms.

Immediately, an assassin disguised as a servant emerged and lunged at Ji Heng with a dagger. Ji Heng, with a piercing gaze, caught the blade with his bare hand, his blood dripping, as guards swiftly apprehended the attacker. While others panicked, Tian Qi remained frozen until Ji Heng prompted her to act. She quickly spun a tale of heroic loyalty, claiming she saw the glint of the dagger and bravely intervened to save him.

Ji Heng, more concerned with the assassination, demanded to know who sent the attacker. Before the assassin could speak, Infanta Shuncheng suddenly coughed up blood and collapsed, and the assassin took the opportunity to bite his tongue, committing suicide. That same evening, in a distant tavern, a man in a white hooded cloak received news of the failed assassination and the assassin's suicide. He clenched his cup, his face composed, seemingly deep in thought.

Later, Infanta Shuncheng was confirmed to have passed away. That night, Tian Qi, alone in the Infanta's mourning hall, wept inconsolably. Her tears, however, were not for the Infanta, but for her own financial woes—her elaborate plan to gain a foothold in Mansion Ji through the Infanta was now ruined, leaving her burdened with debt.

In a moment of desperation, she considered taking the Infanta's priceless necklace, a gift from the Emperor, but was scared away by a sudden, chilling gust of wind. After a series of panicked apologies to the deceased, her thoughts returned to her money. She continued crying so hard that she didn't notice Ji Heng approaching. Unthinkingly, she grabbed the corner of his robe, using it to wipe her tears and blow her nose.

Realizing the fabric was not her handkerchief, she looked down at the robe, then up at Ji Heng’s astonished and disgusted expression. Reacting quickly, she pleaded for mercy, attributing her actions to overwhelming grief over the Infanta’s sudden passing, claiming she treated the Infanta like family and that what she did was an accident.

Ji Heng, seeing her seemingly loyal devotion and perhaps softened by the solemnity of the occasion, spared her life, but ordered Sheng Anhuai, his steward, to punish her. Sheng Anhuai, understanding Tian Qi's manipulative display, sarcastically praised her cunning for softening Ji Heng's heart and avoiding harsher punishment by using the Infanta's coffin as a shield. He sentenced her to forfeit a month's salary.

Tian Qi lamented her financial losses but also found herself unexpectedly intrigued by Ji Heng's handsome appearance and scent. Later, in his room, Ji Heng, disgusted by the incident, discarded his soiled robe and ordered Sheng Anhuai to investigate Tian Qi. He suspected Tian Qi’s tearful behavior indicated a more complex relationship with the Infanta than she let on, also noting Tian Qi's guilty expression when questioned.

Sheng Anhuai speculated about an illicit affair, but Ji Heng dismissed this as secondary to the urgent matter of explaining the Infanta's death in his mansion to the Emperor before their wedding, fearing dire consequences if he failed to provide a satisfactory account. The following day, Shen Zhaoer, outside the Jiedushi's yamen, recalled a childhood memory of waiting there with her mother for her father to finish his medical consultations and come home.

These vivid memories, particularly the circumstances surrounding her parents' deaths, renewed her resolve to uncover the truth. Her initial plan to use the Infanta to infiltrate Mansion Ji had failed, so she knew she needed to devise a new strategy. Meanwhile, Ji Heng’s younger brother, Ji Zheng (the Little Marquis), returned to his hometown after a long absence, ostensibly for his brother's wedding. Instead of going straight home, he chose to wander the streets.

His aide, Xu Jin, questioned this delay, noting their hurried journey to avoid missing the wedding. Ji Zheng explained his "homesickness turned into jitter", an idiom Xu Jin, a "rough guy," didn't grasp, much to Ji Zheng's amusement. Ji Zheng then left Xu Jin to rest while he continued to explore the city alone, where he had a fleeting glimpse of Shen Zhaoer, dressed as a woman, on a bridge, instantly captivating him.

Episode 2 Recap

Ji Zheng, Ji Heng’s brother, had rushed back for his brother’s wedding, yet he still found time to journey by boat, enjoying the unique charm of the drizzling rain. As he walked, he spotted Shen Zhaoer, now in female attire, on a bridge, her graceful presence captivating him. A gust of wind carried a white silk handkerchief to his hand.

He noted the lines embroidered on it, which spoke of the dim, dusty night and the mournful lute of a princess. He pondered why a woman raised in a boudoir would favor such verses, recognizing in them a broad mind that embraced the world. Meanwhile, Shen Zhaoer, disguised as the male doctor Tian Qi, entered a bustling brothel, where she was greeted by Wan Hong and Lin Qian as "Miss" and led to a private room.

Wan Hong expressed her worry, urging Shen Zhaoer to abandon her dangerous quest to find her parents' killer, emphasizing that her life was paramount. Shen Zhaoer, however, could not forget the tragic deaths of her parents. She recounted leaving a bite mark on her parents' killer and recently learning that her sister Jieer had attended to a man who possessed a Buddhist bracelet identical to the killer’s, and crucially, an access token to Ji Mansion.

This new lead solidified her resolve, making it impossible to give up. She explained that her disguise as a male doctor was also a strategic advantage, allowing her to operate unsuspected and follow in her late father’s footsteps, who also served as a doctor in Ji Mansion, thus enabling her to uncover the truth behind his demise. She then informed them of Infanta Shuncheng’s death, a revelation that shocked Wan Hong and Lin Qian.

They suggested she seize this opportunity to leave Ji Mansion and avoid being sent back to the General Medical Academy, but Shen Zhaoer firmly refused, telling them to be prepared for any eventuality. Upon returning to Ji Mansion, Shen Zhaoer noticed the other servants’ strange glances and evasive behavior, making her uneasy. Elsewhere, Ji Heng furiously interrogated Ding Zhi about the Infanta's sudden demise.

Ding Zhi revealed that Infanta Shuncheng had suffered from excruciating abdominal pain before her death, leading him to suspect she was poisoned with "Cun Duan," a potent medicine developed by Shen Qingyun to combat plague. He explained that this medicine, if taken in excessive doses, could be fatal, causing internal bleeding and agonizing pain. Crucially, as it was technically a medicine and not a conventional poison, it was undetectable by silver needles, allowing the culprit to act covertly.

Enraged by Ding Zhi's incompetence as the Infanta’s personal physician, Ji Heng ordered him to be given fifty strikes with a cane for failing in his duties and offering excuses. That night, Ji Heng questioned Sheng Anhuai about the background check on Tian Qi.

Sheng Anhuai reported rumors spreading throughout the mansion that Tian Qi was an "unlucky star" or "hoodoo," whose presence would inevitably bring misfortune and death to her masters, implying Tian Qi was responsible for Infanta Shuncheng's death. Ji Heng scoffed at these superstitions, recalling how he himself was once branded an "unlucky star" destined to kill his father and seize power.

He dismissed such talk as "nonsense" and ordered Sheng Anhuai to write to the General Medical Academy, stating that he would retain Tian Qi due to her cleverness and potential value in solving the current case. Later that evening, a black-clad figure moved stealthily through the heavily guarded Ji Mansion, entering Ji Heng’s study and then leaping onto the roof. Ji Heng calmly confronted the intruder.

The figure attacked with a sword, but Ji Heng, though unarmed, effortlessly parried the strikes and disarmed his opponent, revealing the face of Ji Zheng, his younger brother. Ji Heng, who had already suspected his brother’s identity, chastised him for his playful antics. Ji Zheng explained he was merely testing the mansion’s defenses after hearing about the assassination attempt on Ji Heng.

Ji Heng, acknowledging Ji Zheng's skill, urged him to stay by his side as a strategist, dismissing Ji Zheng’s desire to be a wandering martial artist. Ji Zheng, while expressing his trust in Ji Heng, insisted on his need for freedom. He did, however, agree to stay and assist with the Infanta’s case, which he believed was far from simple, on the condition that he would be free to leave once it was resolved.

Ji Zheng shared his findings that the assassin at the banquet was a mere mercenary, whose crude methods did not align with the elaborate planning involved. He concluded that the true target was Infanta Shuncheng, part of a calculated plot to frame Ji Heng and dismantle his entire family.

The next day, reflecting on his conversation with Ji Zheng, Ji Heng realized this was a cunning scheme of "borrowed knife to kill," and that an "inside mole" must have poisoned the Infanta during the chaos. Acting swiftly, Ji Heng, without even pausing for a meal, led his guards to Tian Qi’s quarters for a search.

Shen Zhaoer, who was bathing at the time, instinctively threw a basin of bathwater at the intruders, unaware that Ji Heng was among them, to protect her identity. The guards found nothing incriminating in her room. Shen Zhaoer was then brought to the training grounds, her heart pounding with fear, dreading Ji Heng’s wrath. Ji Heng interrogated her, demanding to know if her profound sorrow at the Infanta's coffin was genuine or merely an act.

Shen Zhaoer claimed sincere grief, portraying the Infanta as a maternal figure whose kindness she could never repay. Ji Heng, unconvinced, ordered her to be given twenty strikes with a cane, instructing his men to be harsh but not to kill her. After the painful punishment, Ji Heng escalated his threats, vowing to cut out her tongue, and then her hands, if she continued to lie.

Terrified, Shen Zhaoer finally confessed that her tears were indeed genuine, but born of despair for her own financial woes. She explained that she had incurred significant debts and pulled many strings to secure the position by Infanta Shuncheng’s side, viewing the Infanta as a "hot property" whose rise would ensure her own prosperity. Now, with the Infanta’s death, all her investments and hopes were lost, leaving her in profound financial distress.

Ji Heng then accused her of poisoning the Infanta’s wine and attempting to poison his own. Shen Zhaoer vehemently denied the accusations, pleading her innocence. Ji Heng then presented her with an ultimatum: she must prove her innocence by finding the true murderer before the precious azaleas in his study withered, or he would send her to "see her mistress."

Later, Ding Zhi applied medicine to Shen Zhaoer's bruised buttocks, lamenting that she should have left Ji Mansion when she had the chance. Shen Zhaoer playfully complained about Ji Heng, calling him "General Ugly" (a pun on "General Ji," as "醜" means ugly) and refused Ding Zhi's help with the medicine out of shyness, eventually taking the notoginseng medicine she had previously prepared for him. Unaware of Shen Zhaoer's plight, Ji Zheng continued his independent investigation.

His subordinates reported no new leads, but he remained calm, stating that they were not in a hurry and would continue the search patiently. He gazed at a portrait he had drawn of Shen Zhaoer, clearly cherishing it, and instructed his men to find the woman in the painting, cautioning them to be discreet and not harm her reputation. He claimed to have "something to return to her," oblivious that the woman he sought was living under the same roof.

The next day, Shen Zhaoer diligently cared for the azaleas in Ji Heng's study. She carefully moved them away from the window, fearing the strong wind would damage them. Ji Heng observed her, then confronted her, asking why he had assigned her this task. Shen Zhaoer reiterated his instruction: to find the killer before the flowers wilted. Ji Heng, however, corrected her, reminding her that it was "his" will, not the flowers’ natural life cycle, that would determine their fate. He again threatened her, and Shen Zhaoer, understanding the gravity, begged him not to "torture" the flowers, confirming her comprehension of his grim warning.

Episode 3 Recap

Ji Heng stood before a potted flower, plucking its petals one by one. With each plucked petal, the kneeling Shen Zhao’er, disguised as Tian Qi, felt a pang of fear, knowing that when the last petal fell, her life would end. Finally, after Ji Heng plucked the third petal, Shen Zhao'er could no longer bear it. Being bait, though dangerous, was better than immediate death.

Ji Heng questioned her about her task, and she responded that it was to find the murderer quickly. Ji Heng emphasized that he, not the flower, controlled its fate. He then proposed a plan: she would act as bait to expose the killer. She was to spread rumors that the Infanta had died of poisoning and that she, under Ji Heng's command, was actively investigating throughout the mansion.

This, he explained, would make the killer anxious and force them to make a move to silence her. Initially, Shen Zhao’er pleaded for her life, but as Ji Heng continued to pluck petals, threatening to send her to meet her master, she reluctantly agreed to his dangerous proposal. Later, Ji Heng and Ji Zheng discussed the plan.

Ji Zheng questioned the wisdom of using a suspect as bait, but Ji Heng reasoned that whether "Tian Qi" was truly the killer or merely an unwitting accomplice, using him as bait was advantageous. The real culprit would certainly try to eliminate "Tian Qi" to cover their tracks. Ji Heng outlined his intention to provide a decent funeral and support for "Tian Qi's" family, justifying the sacrifice by stating that "Tian Qi" was indirectly responsible for the Infanta's death.

Ji Zheng, softer-hearted than his brother, expressed concern and asked Ji Heng to spare "Tian Qi's" life if he was found innocent, to which Ji Heng agreed, remarking on Ji Zheng's unchanging compassion. Meanwhile, Eunuch Zhuang arrived, conveying the Emperor's command for Ji Heng to apprehend the Infanta's killer within one month, as public opinion demanded justice.

Ji Heng assured the Eunuch that he would deliver the killer, making them pay with their life, even if the Emperor had not issued the decree. He vowed to resolve the matter within the given timeframe, relieving the Emperor of any further trouble. In another part of the mansion, Kang De, his sister Kang Ning'er, and Madame Shu were having tea. Kang Ning'er was willful but straightforward, while Madame Shu was calm yet hypocritical.

Kang De, despite his polite exterior, harbored a sense of intellectual superiority and resentment over his leg disease, making him narrow-minded and petty. These three, each with their own thoughts, discussed the Infanta's death, leading to an unpleasant conclusion. Kang Ning'er mentioned "Tian Qi" being punished yet still allowed to investigate. Madame Shu subtly implied Kang Ning'er's possible involvement, citing her well-known affection for Ji Heng as a motive. Enraged, Kang Ning'er stormed off.

Kang De, feeling slighted by Madame Shu, then indirectly challenged her past, hinting at her dependence on the Ji family. After dismissing himself, Kang De mused that if his sister possessed half his intelligence and composure, she would have already secured Ji Heng's affection, revealing his own ambition and resentment towards those who looked down on him. As evening fell, Ji Heng watched fireworks being practiced for the upcoming festival, a nostalgic reminder of his childhood.

He recalled a young Shen Zhao’er, the first and only person who dared to climb on him to get a better view, and their shared promise to watch fireworks together every year. The memory of her family's tragic end, a disaster he felt responsible for failing to prevent, brought him immense pain, causing his old wound to reopen. He called for "Tian Qi" to re-bandage it.

As "Tian Qi" bandaged him, Ji Heng looked at her, a fleeting image of young Zhao'er tending to his wounds in childhood. Yet, despite the vivid memory and the fact that this person was the very Shen Zhao’er he yearned for, years of separation meant Ji Heng failed to recognize her true identity. " Tian Qi" presented two types of medicine: one potent but painful, the other mild but slower.

Ji Heng, a man of pride, chose the painful but effective one. When "Tian Qi" applied it, Ji Heng cried out. " Tian Qi" then instinctively blew on the wound to soothe it, a gesture that further echoed his childhood with Zhao’er. Startled from his reverie, Ji Heng pushed "Tian Qi" away, calling the act "effeminate." Later, Ji Heng awoke from a nightmare where a bloodied young Zhao’er cried out for help as her family was being massacred.

Unable to sleep, he asked Mr. Sheng to accompany him for a night walk. Meanwhile, "Tian Qi" pondered her precarious situation. Ji Heng's instructions meant she was either killed by the murderer or by Ji Heng if she failed. She resolved that she must live to avenge her parents, recalling her father's dying words to survive and remain silent. Her resolve strengthened, she encountered several male servants harassing Chunhua, a maid. "

Tian Qi" intervened, falsely claiming that Chunhua was Ji Heng's favored woman to scare them off. The men scoffed at the idea, knowing Ji Heng's reputation for not being interested in women, and turned to attack "Tian Qi." At that moment, Ji Heng appeared and sternly rebuked the servants for their misbehavior, ordering the main instigator to be given fifty strokes and the others thirty.

He then ordered "Tian Qi" to ensure Chunhua's safe return to her room, threatening "Tian Qi" with severe consequences if Chunhua came to any harm. Chunhua, still hopeful, asked "Tian Qi" if Ji Heng truly liked her, to which "Tian Qi," weary and stressed, responded dismissively. Elsewhere, a servant reported to their mysterious master that their attempt to frame "Tian Qi" had been foiled by "Tian Qi's" quick thinking.

The master, however, insisted that "Tian Qi" remained the ideal scapegoat and instructed the servant to lay low until "Tian Qi" was eliminated. Determined to continue her investigation outside the mansion, "Tian Qi" attempted to leave but was stopped by guards who demanded a permit, which she didn't have. After trying to bluff her way out, she feigned defeat and, with a piece of meat, distracted a guard dog to slip out through a "dog gate" – a clandestine passage.

Donning her female attire, she arrived at Club Wanhong. Unbeknownst to her, Xu Jin, Ji Zheng's subordinate, spotted her and immediately recognized her from the portrait Ji Zheng had painted. He quickly reported back to Ji Zheng, who was disheartened to learn that the woman he was captivated by was from a brothel. Ji Zheng handed Xu Jin the silk handkerchief he had kept, asking him to return it to her.

Inside Club Wanhong, Wan Hong, sensing a strange medicinal scent from Shen Zhao’er, began to search her. They soon discovered a packet of "deadly cure" powder hidden in her waist belt. Wan Hong, who knew the recipe because it was invented by her senior apprentice – Shen Zhao’er's late father – instantly recognized it. She warned Shen Zhao’er that someone was trying to frame her and urged her to dispose of the evidence immediately.

Back at Ji Mansion, Ji Heng and Ji Zheng discussed the "deadly cure." Ji Zheng noted that since Dr. Shen's death, no one knew the formula, raising the possibility of a connection to a descendant of the Shen family. Ji Heng firmly dismissed the idea that Zhao’er could be involved, reiterating that the Shen family's ethics were strictly about healing, not harming.

He explained that the "deadly cure" was originally developed by Dr. Shen to combat a plague, saving countless lives, and was considered property of the Ji family through Shen Qingyun. Its use now was a calculated move by the killer to incriminate the Ji family, making them appear undeniably guilty. He vowed to find the culprit who dared to tarnish Dr. Shen's legacy. As they spoke, a servant delivered a stack of official documents.

Hidden within the first page was a note specifically naming "Tian Qi" as the murderer. Ji Heng recognized this as a sign that the true killer was growing impatient, eager to make "Tian Qi" their scapegoat. He saw this as the long-awaited "bite" on his bait and prepared to reel in the big fish. Later, Ji Zheng, also known as Marquis Marvel, took his leave from the mansion, politely declining Mr. Sheng’s invitation to stay for dinner, citing Ji Heng’s busy schedule.

Episode 4 Recap

Shen Zhao'er, disguised as Tian Qi, stood before Ji Heng as he worked, unable to help but admire his looks. She openly called him handsome, which instantly irritated him. Ji Heng rose and walked towards her, causing Shen Zhao'er to fluster and mentally panic, reminding herself that she was disguised as a boy. Ji Heng then pulled off her belt and handed it to Sheng Anhuai for inspection. Sheng Anhuai reported that he found nothing amiss.

Ji Heng asked Tian Qi how many such belts she owned. She replied that she had two, and the other had been accidentally burned when she tried to dry it in the kitchen after it got stained. Ji Heng then asked her about the infanta's case. He realized the culprit intended to use him to eliminate Tian Qi, and if he didn't act, the killer would make another move.

Viewing Tian Qi as the key to uncovering the true mastermind, Ji Heng declared that he would make her his personal physician, keeping her close to ensure her safety and to lure out the real killer. Though secretly terrified, Shen Zhao'er feigned gratitude. Ji Heng stated that Sheng Anhuai would spread the word about her new position, ensuring the culprit would become uneasy.

Back in her room, Shen Zhao'er pondered who could have hidden the poison in her belt so stealthily. Ding Zhi arrived, congratulating her on her new position and presenting her with a new set of clothes, including a belt. This reminded Shen Zhao'er that the previous tainted belt had also been a gift from him, sparking suspicion. She subtly probed him, asking if what Ji Heng knew about was something he had done.

Ding Zhi, misunderstanding, panicked and thought she was referring to his romantic entanglements with maids like Xiuyi and Xiuchun, denying any romantic interest in Tian Qi. Realizing her master lacked the cunning to orchestrate the infanta's murder, Shen Zhao'er dismissed her suspicions. She then confided in Ding Zhi, explaining her dangerous situation as a bait and asking him to investigate who might have swapped the belts before he gave them to her.

Ding Zhi promised to discreetly investigate and warned her to be careful, believing Ji Heng was merely using her. Meanwhile, Xu Jing arrived at the Wanhong Club to return a silk handkerchief. He insisted on giving it back to the owner personally, but Wanhong, the proprietor, informed him the lady was out and offered to find other beautiful girls to keep him company. Overwhelmed by the enthusiastic hostesses, Xu Jing quickly handed the handkerchief to Wanhong and departed.

Wanhong was perplexed by Xu Jing possessing Shen Zhao'er's handkerchief and knowing she was there, suspecting he might know some secret. However, she was relieved that Shen Zhao'er was currently safe within Ji Heng's mansion. That night, as the Firework Festival unfolded, citizens gathered by the moat to watch fireworks and release sky lanterns for good fortune. This festival was a tradition where unmarried individuals could wear masks and confess their feelings to their beloved.

Ji Heng recalled a younger Shen Zhao'er, who, without understanding the custom's romantic implication, had once asked him for a mask during this festival. He reminisced about their time together, how she had treated him simply as an older brother, not as the privileged son of the jiedushi. He expressed deep regret that he never told her his name before the tragedy. Ji Heng lamented that even if Shen Zhao'er were still alive, she likely wouldn't recognize him now.

His brother, Ji Zheng, tried to comfort him, reminding him that only the bodies of Physician Shen and his wife were found, leaving open the possibility that Shen Zhao'er might have survived and be living well somewhere. The next day, Shen Zhao'er, as Tian Qi, was summoned to Ji Heng's study. She intended to change his dressing, but Ji Heng asked her to wait until he finished reviewing documents.

Tian Qi offered to grind ink for him, explaining that her father taught her to recognize ink quality before learning to write, a detail that resonated with Ji Heng, who recalled a former teacher at the Ji Mansion, Physician Shen Qingyun, saying the same thing. When Ji Heng mentioned the name Shen Qingyun, Tian Qi, startled, accidentally snapped the ink stick. To compensate, she offered to fan him, employing an intermittent technique she claimed mimicked a mountain breeze.

Ji Heng, amused by her antics, closed his eyes and eventually drifted into a peaceful sleep, smiling slightly. Sheng Anhuai entered with tea, shocked to find Ji Heng asleep. Ji Heng later woke up, surprised he had dozed off. Sheng Anhuai, unaware of the reason for Ji Heng's sleep, praised Tian Qi's "high medical skills," much to her confusion. Later that night, Ji Heng was once again tormented by his recurring nightmare.

In it, a young Shen Zhao'er would transform into a radiant young woman, playing with him under a peach tree, only for the scene to turn desolate, her parents' bodies appearing before him, and Shen Zhao'er's voice accusing him. Waking abruptly, Ji Heng resolved to work rather than face sleeplessness. Sheng Anhuai suggested calling Tian Qi to fan him by his bed, recalling how Ji Heng had peacefully slept earlier. Ji Heng agreed.

However, Sheng Anhuai’s instruction to the guards was misinterpreted as "his service is needed in the bedroom," leading them to drag a protesting Tian Qi, still wrapped in her quilt, directly to Ji Heng's chambers. Believing she was being summoned for sexual servitude, Shen Zhao'er vehemently declared she would rather die than comply, invoking her dignity. Ji Heng clarified that he only wanted her to fan him, not to "lie with him."

The misunderstanding was quickly resolved, and Shen Zhao'er, instantly changing her demeanor, began fanning him with exaggerated flattery. After a night of fanning, Ji Heng enjoyed his first full night's sleep in a long time. Upon waking, he saw Tian Qi asleep by his bed. He gently reached out, then pinched her cheek, startling her awake. Seeing his stern expression, she immediately knelt and begged for mercy.

Ji Heng reminded her of his instruction not to stop fanning even after he fell asleep. He then dismissed her to change, but instructed Sheng Anhuai to give her a reward. Sheng Anhuai was overjoyed to see Ji Heng's insomnia improving with Tian Qi's presence. Ji Heng, however, told Sheng Anhuai to keep his sleep issues a secret from Tian Qi to prevent her from becoming arrogant.

Later, while Shen Zhao'er was happily counting her unexpected earnings, Ding Zhi expressed his confusion over Ji Heng's alternating punishments and rewards. Shen Zhao'er shrugged it off, attributing it to Ji Heng's eccentric but fair nature, and promised Ding Zhi a lavish dinner. Shortly after, the maid Chun Hua approached Shen Zhao'er, offering red bean pie as thanks for a previous favor. Chun Hua’s gaze lingered on Shen Zhao’er, revealing a hint of affection.

As Shen Zhao'er eagerly ate the pastry, a string of Buddhist beads accidentally fell from her clothes. Chun Hua instantly recognized them, stating she had seen them before. Before Shen Zhao'er could press for more details, the very ruffians who had previously harassed Chun Hua appeared, looking for trouble.

Episode 5 Recap

Shen Zhaozhao, disguised as Tian Qi, urged Chun Hua to flee, assuring her that no one would dare harm them within the Ji Mansion. However, Ding Dali and his men, intent on causing trouble, dismissed her words, threatening to throw her outside the mansion where they could do as they pleased. A frantic chase ensued.

Just as Ding Dali's men were about to strike Ji Zheng, who had recognized Shen Zhaozhao from an earlier encounter and bravely stepped in to help, Shen Zhaozhao shielded Ji Zheng from the attack, taking a solid blow to her forehead that drew blood. Unaware of Ji Zheng’s identity, Ding Dali’s men prepared to attack. At that moment, Xu Jin arrived with his subordinates and loudly announced that Ji Zheng was the Young Marquis, General Ji Heng’s younger brother.

Ding Dali and his men immediately knelt, begging for mercy. Ji Zheng asked Tian Qi if she was injured, and she brushed it off, stating she was a doctor and could tend to herself. It was then Ji Zheng learned that the person he had been searching for, the one from the bridge, was actually Tian Qi. Though surprised, he did not expose her.

He warned Ding Dali’s men that Tian Qi was his benefactor and that further trouble would result in severe punishment from both him and General Ji Heng. After the men prostrated themselves in apology, Tian Qi, still in character, swaggered and lectured them about how she had just saved their lives by preventing Ji Zheng from ordering their execution. As she walked away, she furtively checked her head bandage, hoping her disguise remained intact.

Chun Hua, relieved, rushed to Tian Qi’s side. She re-bandaged Tian Qi’s wound, earning praise for her skilled hands. Chun Hua confessed her own interest in medicine but lamented that women were traditionally excluded from the profession. Tian Qi encouraged her, revealing that her own master was a woman, an "excellent" doctor "hundreds of times better than Dr. Ding." Chun Hua was deeply touched by Tian Qi’s understanding.

Tian Qi then pressed Chun Hua about the prayer beads, asking if she now remembered the owner. Chun Hua recalled seeing someone with them in the Ji Mansion but couldn't place the face. She believed she would recognize the person if she saw them again. Tian Qi, feeling a renewed sense of hope, promised to show Chun Hua the mansion's roster.

When Chun Hua questioned Tian Qi's intense desire to find the owner, hinting at a lost relative, Tian Qi clarified that the person was simply "of great importance" to her. Meanwhile, Ji Zheng questioned Xu Jin about the girl from Wanhong Club. Xu Jin noted Tian Qi's uncanny resemblance to the painting, but Ji Zheng dismissed the possibility due to their apparent difference in gender.

Ji Zheng, however, then suspected Tian Qi held many secrets and ordered Xu Jin to discreetly investigate both Tian Qi's background and Wanhong Club. Xu Jin, picking up on Ji Zheng's unusual interest, subtly probed if his lord was falling for the girl. Ji Zheng vehemently denied it, but then pondered his own unusual interest, wondering if it was because he was too idle. Back at his residence, Ji Heng found Tian Qi counting flowers, distressed that some were missing.

He sarcastically asked if she suspected him of secretly picking them. Terrified, Tian Qi repeatedly bowed, knocking off her hat and revealing the bandage on her forehead. Ji Heng demanded an explanation. Tian Qi first lied, claiming she had bumped her head on a doorframe, but Ji Heng scoffed, suggesting her height meant she must have gone through a "dog hole." Under pressure, Tian Qi confessed she had gotten into a fight.

Ji Heng was furious, but Tian Qi, desperate, continued to beg for mercy, even banging her head again. Ji Heng, exasperated, dismissed her but reminded her that her life belonged to him and not to "find yourself killed before I let you to." Later, Ji Heng questioned Sheng Anhuai about Tian Qi's altercation. Sheng Anhuai explained that Ding Dali, still resentful over a previous punishment, had seen Tian Qi conversing with Chun Hua and initiated the conflict.

He further clarified that Tian Qi's head injury was not from the fight itself, but from protecting Ji Zheng when Ding Dali recklessly charged towards Ji Zheng. Ji Heng, annoyed that Tian Qi had protected his brother, muttered about Tian Qi's loyalty. Sheng Anhuai defended Tian Qi, suggesting it was merely an act of kindness.

Just then, Kang Ning'er arrived, ostensibly to apologize for her servant Ding Dali's actions and to inquire about Tian Qi's well-being, though her true intention was to see Ji Heng. Ji Heng, however, pressed her on why she hadn't reported Ding Dali's earlier misconducts, highlighting that Ding Dali had not only nearly injured Ji Zheng but had also repeatedly caused trouble in the mansion, even bullying Kang Ning'er's own maids.

Kang Ning'er apologized for her oversight, and Ji Heng assured her he would handle the matter, then curtly dismissed her, promising a visit another day. After she left, Tian Qi, ever quick-witted, mused aloud about Kang Ning'er’s "not-so-simple" feelings for Ji Heng, then brazenly flirted with Ji Heng, remarking that "handsome men" could also make people "linger," just like beautiful women.

Ji Heng, pretending to be annoyed, feigned another punishment, but Sheng Anhuai intervened, telling Tian Qi that Ji Heng was merely teasing her. Tian Qi, seizing the opportunity, showered Ji Heng with exaggerated praise, declaring him "the best person in the world." Elsewhere, Madame Shu, informed of the deepening animosity between Ding Dali and Tian Qi, saw an opportunity. Her maid reported Ji Heng's intention to severely punish Ding Dali.

Madame Shu, realizing Ding Dali would now "hate Tian Qi's guts," saw this as an advantage. She instructed her maid with a new scheme, then retrieved a jade bracelet from a box, cradling it as she tearfully vowed to achieve revenge for her "Master." That night, Tian Qi, confident in her newly developed herbal moxibustion, convinced Ji Heng to try it instead of fanning. Ji Heng, initially skeptical, agreed to "take off your tops."

As his robe fell, Tian Qi was struck by the sight of numerous scars crisscrossing his back, silent testaments to battles fought. Lost in thought, she accidentally burned Ji Heng, who cried out in pain. A curious servant, peeking through the door, saw Ji Heng shirtless on the bed with Tian Qi leaning over him, leading to wild rumors of Ji Heng's preference for men, and even that he was the "submissive one in bed" based on his "loud shouts."

Ji Zheng heard these rumors and confronted Ji Heng, who was furious. Ji Zheng, observing his brother's genuine anger, realized Ji Heng was unaware of Tian Qi’s true gender, which brought him a sense of relief. He attempted to rationalize the rumors as a way to lure out the killer, but Ji Heng, angered, simply ordered him to swiftly deal with anyone spreading such nonsense.

Ji Zheng then subtly questioned Ji Heng about Tian Qi, asking if he noticed anything "strange" about him. Ji Heng admitted Tian Qi was "strange from head to toe" but acknowledged his medical skill. Later, Tian Qi mentioned to Ji Heng that she heard the poison that killed the Princess was made by Imperial Physician Shen Qingyun, who had served in the mansion previously.

She inquired if Ji Heng knew anyone else who knew the prescription, adding that Shen Qingyun was unjustly exiled. Ji Heng grew angry, stating that Shen Qingyun left no successor and the prescription was lost. He sternly warned Tian Qi not to speak presumptuously about past matters and to stick to her task of luring out the culprit, not meddling in his investigation. The following night, Tian Qi proposed another new treatment, but Ji Heng, remembering the burn, declined.

He then noticed a faint, familiar floral scent emanating from Tian Qi and identified it as gardenia. Tian Qi explained it was from a sachet she'd carried since childhood. Ji Heng, asserting he didn't need Tian Qi's presence to sleep well, only the calming scent, demanded she leave the sachet and dismissed her. However, without Tian Qi and her sachet, Ji Heng again suffered nightmares, realizing it was not the scent, but Tian Qi's presence that brought him peace.

Reluctantly, he instructed Sheng Anhuai to summon Tian Qi. Sheng Anhuai returned with the shocking news: Tian Qi was missing. Ji Heng, though maintaining a calm exterior, immediately ordered the entire mansion sealed and thoroughly searched. He dispatched his personal guards, including Sheng Anhuai, to assist, and even went to search himself, expressing, "If Tian Qi can wait till help comes, try to save him." Ji Zheng, learning of Tian Qi’s disappearance, also personally joined the search party.

Meanwhile, Shen Zhaozhao, having been knocked unconscious by black-clad figures, was carried away. When her captors found their escape routes blocked, they callously threw her, still bound, into a nearby pond, leaving her to slowly sink as the moonlight on the water's surface receded from her view.

Episode 6 Recap

Shen Zhao'er struggled to stay afloat after being thrown into Tianshou Pond, her hands bound. As she began to lose consciousness, she hallucinated her father's plea for her to live, feeling regret that she couldn't avenge him or keep his promise. Just as she was about to give up, a pair of hands pulled her from the water. The first person she saw upon opening her eyes was Zheng, who quickly denied being her rescuer.

As others gathered, Zheng claimed it was a mythical spirit turtle from the pond that saved Dr. Tian. Only Zheng and Sheng Anhuai knew that Ji Heng himself was the true rescuer. Despite being comforted by Madame Shu at the scene, Shen Zhao'er later felt an unsettling suspicion as she recalled a fleeting look of disappointment on Madame Shu's face during the rescue.

Now, having narrowly escaped death, Shen Zhao'er's determination to uncover the truth about her father's death intensified, making her eager to leave the dangerous Ji Mansion as soon as her mission was complete. Zheng had initially tried to dissuade his brother from personally intervening, reminding him of Dr. Tian's humble status and the potential for rumors.

Ji Heng, however, insisted that Dr. Tian was crucial to the case of Her Ladyship and could not be allowed to die, remarking that Dr. Tian was useful to him alive. With Ji Heng wet from the rescue, Zheng offered to handle the aftermath. Ji Heng, trusting his brother, agreed. Observing the unconscious Dr. Tian, Zheng pondered, "Who are you? Why are you cross-dressed as a man? What do you want in Mansion Ji?"

When Sheng Anhuai later reported Dr. Tian's discovery by the pond, Ji Heng calmly stated he already knew. He explained to a bewildered Sheng Anhuai that he had witnessed a masked man in black throwing Dr. Tian into the pond, and with no one else around, he had to act immediately. He then tasked Sheng Anhuai with investigating the masked assailant's identity, urging him not to focus on the wrong person.

Sheng Anhuai, still astonished by Ji Heng's personal intervention, even playfully asked who Ji Heng would save if both he and Dr. Tian fell into the water simultaneously. Ji Heng, with his usual sharp wit, retorted that he would ensure Sheng Anhuai sank if he didn't. Ji Heng clarified that Dr. Tian was still useful to him and could not die. He mentioned Zheng had seen him and stayed to manage the situation.

Later, Sheng Anhuai remarked that both General J and Marquis Marvel rushing to save a mere doctor was truly a blessing for Dr. Tian. Once everyone had left, Dr. Tian internally grumbled about Ji Heng's "hard-hearted" nature, convinced Ji Heng didn't care about his well-being. Back in her room, Shen Zhao'er was reviewing a medical formula for Sihuang Powder when an attendant announced Ji Heng's arrival. She initially thought she misheard, but then the door opened.

She quickly knelt to greet him, feigning surprise that he would come to her. Ji Heng inquired about her health, which she assured him was much improved thanks to his "delicious food." He then asked if she suspected anyone regarding the attack. She confidently named Sun Dali, citing his distinctive, foul odor which she had recognized even when unconscious on his shoulder.

Ji Heng then revealed that Sun Dali had been found dead, having left a suicide note confessing his guilt. Shen Zhao'er was stunned, realizing the mastermind was quick to eliminate witnesses. Fearing that revealing the details of her stolen belt, which was critical to her disguise, would put her in more danger, she decided to feign ignorance and dropped the matter. Ji Heng, seeing no further immediate issue, advised her to rest, and then departed.

After he left, Shen Zhao'er internally speculated that Sun Dali's death was murder, an attempt to silence him. She considered Kang Ninger as a suspect, then Madame Shu, growing increasingly uneasy about the dangers lurking in Mansion Ji. Driven by her urgent need to uncover the truth, Shen Zhao'er devised a plan to infiltrate the Mansion's archives, hoping to find records pertaining to her father, Shen Qingyun.

For three consecutive days, she brought food to Guard Wang, the attendant at the archive, who had previously "found" her during her escape from the pursuers. On the third day, the food caused Guard Wang stomachache, and he had to leave for the outhouse. He warned her about the confidential documents inside and the strict access rules, emphasizing that unauthorized entry was punishable by death. Shen Zhao'er, left alone, swiftly snuck in.

While frantically searching for her father's files, another guard entered the unguarded room. Just as Shen Zhao'er was about to be discovered, Zheng appeared, covering her mouth and ushering her into hiding. He then explained to the guard that he was there to check some files and called Shen Zhao'er out.

After the guard left, Zheng questioned her presence, to which she quickly fabricated a story about looking for her "loved one's" birthday and entry date into the Mansion, feigning shyness about her secret love. Zheng, however, suspected it was a mere excuse, noting her intelligence and agile mind. He concluded her target wasn't Ji Heng but remained puzzled by her true objective. Later, Zheng encountered Shen Zhao'er outside and remarked that he had seen her before, "outside the mansion."

Ji Heng then unexpectedly arrived, noticing Zheng's unusual familiarity with Dr. Tian. Zheng quickly covered for them, claiming they had just met and he was inquiring about Dr. Tian's recovery. Shen Zhao'er added that she had cleaned the cape Zheng lent her from the day she fell into the pond, which Ji Heng then insisted she return to Zheng directly.

Ji Heng commented on Zheng's uncharacteristic closeness to Dr. Tian, but Zheng simply replied that he found Dr. Tian "interesting" and "got along well" with him. Ji Heng, having official matters to discuss, then said he would visit Zheng's quarters later. Shen Zhao'er, distressed by Zheng's comment about seeing her outside, worried he knew she was a woman. She pondered why he would help her and not expose her.

When Zheng later came to retrieve his cape, he asked her to help him put it on, feigning a stiff neck and shoulders. He then directly confronted her, stating he had seen her in female attire outside the mansion and demanding to know why she was cross-dressing to infiltrate the Ji Mansion.

Shen Zhao'er vehemently denied it, citing her credentials as a qualified doctor and insisting he must be mistaken, especially since she had been in the Mansion since Her Ladyship's death. Realizing her lies were failing, Shen Zhao'er decided on a drastic measure. She dramatically broke down, lamenting that everyone in the Mansion, including Ji Heng and now Zheng, seemed to want her dead because of her "girly face," and threatened to commit suicide to preserve her honor.

Zheng, alarmed, immediately backed down, apologizing for his mistake and promising not to reveal anything to Ji Heng. Shen Zhao'er thanked him, feigning relief, and excused herself to attend to Ji Heng. Zheng, left alone, decided to observe her further, still convinced of her disguise but deeming her not an immediate threat to his brother.

While in Ji Heng's study, where she worked as his attendant, Shen Zhao'er was fanning him, her mind preoccupied with her encounter with Madame Shu earlier that day. Madame Shu had casually inquired about the head injury Shen Zhao'er sustained, specifically mentioning being hit by a stick. Shen Zhao'er realized with a jolt that only the assailant and she herself knew about this detail, as she had never revealed it to anyone else.

This unsettling discovery led her to suspect Madame Shu as the mastermind behind the attack. She contemplated informing Ji Heng but, lacking concrete evidence, decided to bide her time and gather proof before making any accusations, fearing he might not believe her and that Madame Shu could retaliate. She couldn't help but glance at the pot of flowers, which were rapidly dwindling, signifying the deadline Ji Heng had set for her to solve the case.

Earlier, she had secretly tried to steal one of the flowers, only to be caught by Ding Zhi. She confessed her predicament, explaining that if the flowers died, Ji Heng would kill her. Ding Zhi, while scolding her for her audacious theft, suggested a superstitious remedy: to "give offerings to the flower angel," a custom mentioned in storybooks. Shen Zhao'er, desperate, agreed to try anything.

Ji Heng, aware of her attempts to tamper with the flowers, deliberately moved around the room, subtly teasing her as she tried to block his line of sight to the plant with her fan. Her cautious, flattering smiles amused him, and he found himself intrigued by her. He wondered if he was unconsciously starting to feel differently about her.

The fear of the dwindling flowers only fueled Shen Zhao'er's urgency to solve her father's case and escape the dangerous Mansion Ji. Separately, Zheng's subordinate, Xu Jin, reported rumors about Dr. Tian and Ji Heng's unusual closeness, noting that Ji Heng, who always slept alone, had allowed Dr. Tian to stay in his room overnight on occasion.

Xu Jin also questioned if a woman in a portrait Zheng possessed was, in fact, Dr. Tian, and why Zheng was so interested in him. Zheng dismissed him, preferring to ponder these matters alone, acknowledging the girl's bravery in infiltrating the Mansion disguised as a man, though her motives remained unclear.

Later, Ji Heng summoned Zheng to discuss Dr. Tian, stating that the attack on Dr. Tian confirmed his suspicion that the culprit, having failed to frame him, would now try to eliminate him. He tasked Zheng, his most trusted and skilled subordinate, with secretly protecting Dr. Tian to uncover the true assailant. Ji Heng also believed Dr. Tian's intelligence meant he might have discovered vital clues, and ordered Zheng to keep a close eye on him.

Zheng, sensing Ji Heng's growing interest in Dr. Tian, subtly probed if Ji Heng had noticed anything unusual about the "doctor," but Ji Heng merely acknowledged Dr. Tian's interesting nature, unaware of his true gender. Zheng left, convinced his brother still had no idea Dr. Tian was a woman. Ji Heng then confronted Shen Zhao'er, along with Ding Zhi, about the story of the spirit turtle saving her.

He directly asked if her account was true, and why she had initially claimed not to remember her rescuer. Shen Zhao'er, quickly concocting an explanation, stated that she only recalled the "gigantic thing" in the water after she had time to recover and reflect. She then launched into a vivid, exaggerated description of the spirit turtle, portraying it as "really big," "dark," with "green eyes," "full of fangs," "long and sharp teeth," and a "heavy, glittering shell."

She concluded that it looked "disgusting" and "hideous," admitting she would have been terrified if she hadn't known it was a divine creature, and wished a beautiful lady had saved her instead. Ji Heng, bemused by her description of her "savior," then challenged her to summon this mythical creature, as she was clearly its "fated one," so he too could witness its legendary appearance.

Episode 7 Recap

Dr. Tian and her master, Ding Zhi, were discussing the "spirit turtle" that saved her from drowning, describing it as ugly and terrifying. Unbeknownst to them, Ji Heng was listening behind a rockery. Angered by her ungracious description of his appearance, especially after he himself had jumped into the water to save her, Ji Heng decided to tease her. He ordered Dr. Tian to summon the divine creature.

Dr. Tian, holding a basket of dried fish, began tossing them into the pond, desperately praying for the spirit turtle to appear as her life depended on it. Soon, Madame Shu, her brother, and other onlookers arrived, curious to see the fabled creature. As Dr. Tian grew increasingly anxious, a small turtle finally surfaced. Dr. Tian presented the palm-sized turtle to Ji Heng, much to the amusement of the crowd who mocked its small stature.

However, Ji Heng came to her rescue, identifying the creature as a rare Turtle Ze from the State of Dala, a sacred animal whose shell bore the character "Wang" (King). He declared it a descendant of the true spirit turtle and entrusted Dr. Tian with its care. Later that night, the maid Muzhu attempted to flee but was intercepted by Zhijin, Madame Shu's personal maid.

Muzhu desperately pleaded, revealing that she had been instructed to convince Sun Dali to kill Dr. Tian, but instead, Sun Dali had been killed. She expressed fear that Madame Shu would not spare her, having done and known too much. Zhijin confirmed Muzhu's fears, stating that knowing too much was precisely why she had to die, and ordered her drowned. News of Muzhu's death quickly spread throughout the mansion.

Ding Zhi informed Dr. Tian, who was surprised to learn that Muzhu had been Sun Dali's lover. Ding Zhi further revealed that Muzhu had previously served Madame Shu before being demoted to the embroidery workshop, suggesting she might have made the clothes they were wearing. This revelation sparked a realization in Dr. Tian: Muzhu could have been the one who planted the "deadly cure" in her belt.

Meanwhile, Ji Zheng, who had been secretly observing Dr. Tian under Ji Heng's orders, instructed his subordinates to discreetly investigate Muzhu's identity. He also noted Dr. Tian praying to a flower pot, musing that she was desperate. Driven to uncover the truth, Dr. Tian disguised herself as a maid and went to Muzhu's former living quarters. Pretending to be Muzhu's distraught hometown sister, she successfully obtained Muzhu's embroidery and personal effects, claiming they were for a cenotaph.

As she hurried away, she accidentally bumped into Ji Heng. Thinking quickly, she feigned adoration for him to deflect suspicion and made her escape. Ji Heng, however, found her behavior suspicious and noted a familiar, complex scent from her, ordering his guards to apprehend her. Dr. Tian managed to evade capture and quickly changed back into her doctor's attire. Back in her room, she and Ding Zhi meticulously examined Muzhu's belongings.

They found numerous heavily scented sachets, leading Dr. Tian to deduce that the strong fragrances were meant to mask another, more potent odor. Their diligent search paid off when they discovered a packet of "deadly cure" powder hidden within one of the sachets. Ji Zheng promptly reported these findings to Ji Heng, including Dr. Tian's ingenious method of disguising herself as a maid to gather evidence, which impressed Ji Heng.

Ji Heng then realized that the "suspicious maid" he had encountered earlier was indeed Dr. Tian, explaining the familiar scent. Dr. Tian, meanwhile, grappled with whether to reveal everything to Ji Heng. Suddenly, a masked figure claiming to be the flower angel, Ji Zheng in disguise, appeared in her room. He revealed he had been watching her for days and offered to help her out of her predicament if she entrusted him with the evidence.

Desperate, Dr. Tian handed over the sachet. The "flower angel" also advised her that Ji Heng was kinder than she thought and that her loyalty could save her life. Ji Zheng reported to Ji Heng that the fabric used for Muzhu's sachet was leftover from tribute silk once gifted to Madame Shu by Ji Heng's father. This deepened their suspicion that Madame Shu was involved.

They connected this to events eight years prior when Ji Heng's father was rescued during the suppression of Dong Mountain Village, and Madame Shu was subsequently taken into the Ji Mansion. Ji Heng and Ji Zheng now suspected Madame Shu was, in fact, Liao Shuyi, a missing prominent figure from Dong Mountain Village, and speculated that Dong Zichun, her childhood sweetheart, might also still be alive, implying a long-simmering revenge plot.

Ji Heng then confronted Dr. Tian in her room, observing the missing rhododendron pot which had been symbolic of her deadline to solve the case. He began plucking the petals of a flower, seemingly deliberating her fate. Panicked, Dr. Tian, despite having given the evidence to the "flower angel," blurted out her suspicion of Madame Shu.

She explained that Madame Shu had inquired about the injury to the back of her head, a detail known only to Sun Dali and the true mastermind, thus implicating Madame Shu. Ji Heng, already aware of much of this, allowed her to rest, signaling that her life was safe. Soon after, Sheng Anhuai reported that Madame Shu, now identified as Liao Shuyi, had nervously left the mansion but returned looking despondent.

Ji Heng deduced that this was an attempt to meet Dong Zichun, who had recognized and evaded Ji Heng's trap. He ordered Xishou Court sealed and Ji Zheng to investigate Liao Shuyi's movements. Simultaneously, Dong Zichun was revealed to be alive, discussing their revenge plot and acknowledging Liao Shuyi's inevitable decision. Rumors spread among the servants that Ji Heng had identified Madame Shu as the murderer, confined her to Xishou Court, and imprisoned her maids.

Realizing Ji Heng already knew the truth, Dr. Tian was summoned. Recalling the "flower angel's" advice, she confessed her knowledge of the poison in her belt and her fear-driven decision to destroy the belt without reporting it. Ji Heng then produced the sachet with the "deadly cure," proving he possessed the evidence all along.

Before he could question her further about her delayed confession, Liao Shuyi committed suicide in Xishou Court, thwarting Ji Heng's plan to use her to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy. However, Ji Heng was now certain that Dr. Tian was not involved in the infanta's murder, giving him a reason to spare her life.

Episode 8 Recap

Liao Shuyi, in her final moments, cursed Ji Heng, foretelling that he would be forsaken by all and hated by those he loved. This prophecy rekindled Ji Heng's thoughts of the Shen Qingyun family and the unknown fate of Shen Zhaoer, unaware that the person occupying his thoughts was right beside him.

Shen Zhaoer sensed Ji Heng's remorse, attributing it to Liao Shuyi's death, and her perception of him began to soften; perhaps he was not as cold-hearted as he seemed. Ji Heng summoned Shen Zhaoer, demanding to know if she had found the medicinal powder. Startled, Shen Zhaoer confessed that a medicinal powder had been sewn into her belt. She explained that she destroyed the belt out of fear and had not reported it earlier, hoping to live longer.

Ji Heng was furious at her deception but, after her fervent pleas, spared her life, though he warned her that she might regret her actions later. He then led her to the residence where Liao Shuyi, formerly known as Madam Shu, was confined. Confronting Liao Shuyi, Ji Heng revealed his knowledge of her true identity and her connection to Dong Zichun. He pressed her about the murders of Infanta Shucheng, Sun Dali, and Mu Zhu, which Liao Shuyi acknowledged.

When Ji Heng inquired about Dong Zichun's whereabouts and the mastermind behind her, Liao Shuyi refused to cooperate, declaring Ji Heng unworthy of even speaking Dong Zichun's name. She defiantly proclaimed her unwavering love and loyalty to Dong Zichun, despite his abandonment. In an attempt to force her hand, Ji Heng ordered her maid, Zhi Jin, to be taken out for execution.

Distraught, Liao Shuyi apologized to Zhi Jin, promising to repay her in the next life, and then took her own life. Ji Heng did not intervene. Before she fully succumbed, Shen Zhaoer urgently tried to question her about Shen Qingyun and the source of the deadly "Cun Duan," but Liao Shuyi could only whisper "Young master" repeatedly before she died. Ji Heng subsequently ordered Liao Shuyi's title stripped and her to be buried as a commoner.

Shen Zhaoer observed Ji Heng, surmising that he must feel guilty over Liao Shuyi's death. She then astutely deduced that Zhi Jin had not been executed but merely imprisoned, a fact that surprised Ji Heng. Back at the medical hall, Ding Zhi expressed concern for Shen Zhaoer, who recounted Liao Shuyi's suicide and her own confession to Ji Heng.

She admitted to feeling that the Ji Mansion was a perilous place, citing the assassinations and deaths she had witnessed, and even considered leaving. Ding Zhi, however, encouraged her, emphasizing that becoming Ji Heng's trusted personal physician and confidant was their long-cherished ambition, which would grant her immense influence and allow her to achieve anything she desired.

Shen Zhaoer pondered this, reflecting on her original purpose for entering the mansion—to find her parents' killer and clear her father's name—and acknowledging that only Ji Heng possessed such power, yet also recognizing the inherent dangers. That night, as Shen Zhaoer fanned Ji Heng, she considered asking for his help. Suddenly, Ji Heng began to thrash in his sleep, murmuring "Don't go." Shen Zhaoer, alarmed, tried to wake him.

He abruptly sat up, pulled her into an embrace, then quickly released her, regaining his composure. Unable to sleep, he asked her to accompany him for a walk outside. Shen Zhaoer suggested his persistent insomnia stemmed from unresolved worries and a "heart knot." Ji Heng began to confide in her, recounting his youth: how his strenuous efforts in martial arts to earn his father's approval only led to his father's increasing distance and wariness.

He then shared his greatest regret: watching people die to protect him, a sight that still haunted him every time he closed his eyes, forcing him to stay awake. Shen Zhaoer comforted him, asserting that he was a good man who defended the nation and protected its people, believing that those who sacrificed themselves would not regret it, and urged him to cease blaming himself.

Ji Heng then revealed that he kept her by his side because her presence allowed him to sleep peacefully, free from nightmares. He confessed this as a weakness, which he was "exchanging for her loyalty," issuing a severe warning that any betrayal would result in a fate far worse than Liao Shuyi's. Shen Zhaoer promised her unwavering loyalty.

As she continued to fan him, she felt a strange sense of familiarity with his sleeping form, as if she had known him long ago, but quickly refocused her thoughts on the mystery of "Cun Duan" and Liao Shuyi's potential connection to her parents' killer. The next morning, Ji Heng awoke to find Shen Zhaoer asleep by his bed, even drooling.

He nudged her awake, then commanded her to summon Sheng Anhuai for his dressing and to have the bedding changed, complaining that her saliva had soiled it. Shen Zhaoer prepared a medicinal dish of gordon euryale seeds and polished round-grained rice for Ji Heng. Ding Zhi, seeing her culinary efforts, praised her and requested a bowl, which Shen Zhaoer provided before departing. Soon after, Ji Zheng, disguised as the "flower angel," appeared while Shen Zhaoer was serving Ji Heng.

Ji Heng initially humored his brother's prank. Shen Zhaoer was terrified, kneeling and pleading. Ji Zheng continued his antics until Ji Heng finally put an end to it, revealing Ji Zheng's identity. Shen Zhaoer was furious at having been tricked for so long. Ji Zheng followed her, sincerely apologizing. He explained that his flower angel persona was part of his investigation into the Infanta's case, intended to encourage her to confess.

He offered his genuine help with any difficulties she might face in the mansion. Relieved and recognizing the value of such a powerful ally, Shen Zhaoer accepted his apology. Meanwhile, Ji Zheng and Ji Heng discussed Sun Congrui.

Ji Zheng noted how Sun Congrui had repeatedly petitioned the Emperor regarding the Infanta's case, not out of genuine concern, but to accrue political favor, just as he had initially recommended Ji Heng as Jiedushi after their father's death, thereby positioning himself as Ji Heng's benefactor. Ji Zheng criticized Sun Congrui's corrupt practices, including colluding with wealthy merchants to exploit the populace.

Ji Heng acknowledged Sun Congrui's indirect role in the Shen family's tragedy and vowed revenge but stressed that the timing was not yet right. Ji Zheng also expressed curiosity about Ji Heng's unusual concern for Shen Zhaoer (Tian Qi), questioning why he had personally saved her from the pond and kept her in the mansion even after the Infanta's case was resolved.

Ji Heng explained that she was a key clue and had proven diligent, eventually admitting that she helped alleviate his insomnia. Ji Zheng expressed his desire to befriend "Tian Qi" due to her interesting personality. Later, Sun Congrui visited Ji Heng. He once again highlighted his efforts in interceding with the Emperor on Ji Heng's behalf regarding the Infanta's case, reminding Ji Heng of his "life-long friendship" with Ji Heng's late father.

He then subtly requested that Ji Heng recommend his son, Faner, for a position escorting military supplies. Ji Heng, maintaining a cordial facade, promised to carefully consider his request. Shen Zhaoer witnessed this interaction, triggering a painful flashback of Sun Congrui betraying her family. Filled with righteous anger, she worried that Ji Heng might align himself with this villain. Ji Zheng intercepted her, preventing her from disturbing their conversation.

Shen Zhaoer feigned concern for Sun Congrui's supposedly unwell appearance, claiming she merely wished to check his pulse, and then quickly departed. Later, she stood by a pond, angrily throwing stones into the water, silently vowing to avenge her family against Sun Congrui.

Episode 9 Recap

Following the death of Madame Shu, the mystery surrounding "Cunduan (Deadly Cure)" persisted, with no clear indication of its origin or its connection to the murder of Dr. Shen. General Ji Heng and his brother, Marquis Marvel Ji Zheng, suspected there was a mole within the Ji household, given Madame Shu rarely ventured outside. Ji Heng had already begun the process of verifying the identities of all servants to root out any spies.

When he casually inquired about Tian Qi's background, Ji Zheng revealed that Tian Qi had indeed passed the imperial medical academy entrance exam but had inexplicably turned down the prestigious position of an imperial doctor just to enter the Ji mansion. Ji Zheng, however, conspicuously avoided mentioning that Tian Qi was a woman. Ji Heng, a keen observer, noticed Ji Zheng's evasive gaze and realized his brother was concealing something.

This sparked Ji Heng's resolve to personally investigate and test Tian Qi. At the same time, Tian Qi had been dwelling on Sun Congrui and his machinations. She concluded that to effectively counter Sun Congrui, she first needed to earn General Ji Heng's complete trust and become his confidant. The next day, Ji Heng announced his departure for military training in the suburbs and decided to take Tian Qi with him.

Ji Zheng, worried for Tian Qi, feared that if Ji Heng discovered her true gender, he might eliminate her as a precaution, regardless of her intentions. During the journey, Tian Qi resumed her usual exaggerated flattery towards Ji Heng, which he, as usual, found irritating. She even tried to offer him some dried plums, which she claimed were good for nausea, but the bumpy ride caused Ji Heng to nearly choke on one.

Later, during a lunch break, a frustrated Tian Qi lamented her inability to impress Ji Heng. She wandered off into a garden filled with gardenias, a scene that vividly reminded her of her childhood. She recalled her father playing the xiao, her mother singing, and herself dancing with a flower branch, hearing her mother call her "adorable." The joyful laughter of a child echoed in her memory, only to vanish, leaving her alone.

Picking a flower branch, just as she used to, Tian Qi found herself humming her mother's song, tears streaming down her face, wishing her parents were still there. From a distance, Ji Heng observed Tian Qi, a gentle smile gracing his lips, stirred by an unknown memory. However, as he drew closer and recognized Tian Qi, his expression immediately hardened.

Seeing the flower crown she had fashioned, he decided to tease her, warning her that for every flower lost, she would receive ten strikes of the rod. This playful torment, though annoying for Tian Qi, often brought a rare smile to Ji Heng's face. That night, Ji Heng called for Tian Qi to help him bathe.

Tian Qi, mortified, tried to find an excuse to leave, but Ji Heng sternly warned her that if she left, she would not be permitted to return to the Ji mansion after the military review. Reluctantly, Tian Qi began to undress Ji Heng. Her embarrassed and awkward movements, however, made Ji Heng pause. He found her behavior surprisingly "girlish" and abruptly dismissed her before she could proceed further.

Alone, Ji Heng mused over Tian Qi's peculiar demeanor, noting how much she resembled a girl, yet he dismissed the thought as merely a strange habit, quickly brushing away the spots Tian Qi had touched. The following day, as the troops continued their journey, Tian Qi, walking beside the carriage, jokingly remarked to Sheng Anhuai about how beautiful forests often harbored either monsters or assassins.

No sooner had she spoken than a volley of arrows rained down, striking several unsuspecting soldiers in the front ranks. Ji Heng, leaping from his carriage, fought valiantly, outnumbered. Just as the fight intensified, Ji Zheng arrived with reinforcements. It was then revealed that the supposed military training was merely a trap set by Ji Heng to lure out surviving remnants of the Dong faction, hoping to capture them alive and uncover the mastermind behind them.

Meanwhile, Tian Qi found herself pursued by an assassin. Frightened, she ran towards Ji Heng but stumbled over a fallen body, inadvertently shielding Ji Heng from a critical arrow. With Tian Qi gravely wounded, Ji Heng was forced to allow the remaining assassins to escape to tend to her, an unprecedented decision that showed he valued Tian Qi's life over his carefully laid plan.

Back at their temporary camp, with the doctor yet to arrive, Ji Heng prepared to treat Tian Qi himself. As he reached for the scissors to cut her clothes, a panicked Tian Qi pleaded with him, asking for his promise not to execute her if she survived. Ji Heng, confused by her strange request, assured her he was trying to save her, not punish her.

At that crucial moment, Ji Zheng returned with Dr. Ye Qianzi, a local female physician renowned for her skills, who was Wan Hong in disguise. Dr. Ye immediately asserted that Tian Qi had less than an hour to live without treatment. Ji Heng, with an intense look, ordered her to save Tian Qi, threatening her life if she failed.

Dr. Ye asked for privacy to treat her patient, and after some time, she emerged, announcing that the arrow had been removed and her family's special medicine applied. She reassured them that if Tian Qi's fever did not rise that night, her wound would heal. Ji Heng then personally looked after Tian Qi late into the night, fanning her and wiping her sweat.

When Sheng Anhuai came to check on him, Ji Heng, momentarily flustered, pretended to fan himself, holding the fan upside down. This tender and somewhat clumsy display revealed a side of the cold "Battle Rakshasa" rarely seen. When Tian Qi eventually regained consciousness, she saw Auntie Hong (Dr. Ye) tending to her. Her first anxious question was whether Ji Heng had discovered her secret. Auntie Hong calmly reassured her, saying, "Rest assured, I'm the one who pulled out your arrow."

Tian Qi, hearing this, breathed a sigh of relief, knowing her secret was safe for now. Ji Heng remained by Tian Qi's side. Later, he overheard her feverish whispers of "Dad, Mom, don't leave," to which he softly replied, "Okay, I won't leave. I'm here with you." While she was unconscious, he had already mused that her silence was something he wasn't used to, expressing his hope for her quick recovery.

Episode 10 Recap

After regaining consciousness, Shen Zhaoer found Auntie Hong by her side. Auntie Hong expressed concern, questioning why Shen Zhaoer recklessly risked her life for Ji Heng, reminding her of their primary mission. Shen Zhaoer insisted it was an accident, a mere stumble that led her to shield Ji Heng from an arrow. She then anxiously asked if Ji Heng had discovered her true gender when he attempted to cut her clothes.

Auntie Hong reassured her, stating that she was the one who removed the arrow, and Ji Heng remained unaware of Shen Zhaoer's female identity. Shen Zhaoer gratefully acknowledged Auntie Hong for saving her twice, once even when she was a child thrown off a cliff by a man in black.

Auntie Hong, though still worried, noted Ji Heng's surprising kindness in allowing Shen Zhaoer to recover there and even providing a carriage for her return, observing that he had personally attended to Shen Zhaoer all night. Shen Zhaoer, however, believed Ji Heng's actions were merely a response to her perceived heroism, not genuine affection. When asked about her progress in Ji Mansion, Shen Zhaoer admitted to no significant breakthroughs yet but vowed not to give up.

She reiterated her conviction that the man in black who murdered her parents, the same individual who Jieer had served, was still within the mansion walls, citing a rare Buddha bracelet and an access permit as evidence. Auntie Hong promised continued support. Shen Zhaoer then revealed she had identified another enemy: Sun Congrui, the one who betrayed her father, and intended to confront him first.

Auntie Hong urged her to rest, but Shen Zhaoer, driven by her quest for revenge, insisted she had no time. Recognizing her resolve, Auntie Hong confirmed Shen Zhaoer's wound was largely healed and provided her with additional medicine, emphasizing the importance of a doctor's self-care. Upon her return to Ji Mansion, Shen Zhaoer noticed a dramatic shift in the staff's demeanor; everyone greeted her with warmth and concern.

Her master, Ye Zhi, welcomed her, explaining that Ji Heng, anticipating her return, had ordered Sheng Anhuai to completely redecorate her room to ensure cleanliness and prevent infection. Ye Zhi then informed her that she had become Ji Heng’s most trusted confidante, eclipsing Sheng Anhuai, and that everyone in the mansion would now seek her favor. He cautioned her, however, against becoming conceited, reminding her to always uphold her fundamental principles as a healer.

Shen Zhaoer affirmed her commitment, reciting passages from Huangdi Neijing about a doctor's core mission: "To heal people's mind, to cure people's body; let people be away from disease, keep harmony, realize morality, benefit descendents, and help future generations. That's the key for us doctors." She further articulated her belief in the doctor's "kind heart" and assured her master of her unwavering integrity.

That evening, Shen Zhaoer arrived at Ji Heng’s room to find a soft couch specially placed for her. Ji Heng clarified it was for her convenience, as he knew she often dozed off while serving him, and with her injury, she now had a proper place to rest near him without fear of reprimand. Shen Zhaoer quietly mused that he simply wanted to care for her.

Ji Heng then declared that, as she had once shielded him from an arrow, they were now like "blood brothers," and he would protect her. He offered her any reward she desired if she doubted his sincerity. Seizing the opportunity, Shen Zhaoer boldly requested a "Death-free gold medal," not an imperial one, but a personalized one from him, humorously citing his volatile temper as the most likely cause of her demise.

She explained that she no longer feared him, having realized he was not as ruthless as he appeared, deeply sensing his genuine concern for her well-being and acknowledging his hidden sorrow. Ji Heng, however, dismissed her request, playfully suggesting she merely desired the gold. He then prepared for bed, stopping Shen Zhaoer from fanning him due to her injury and ordering her to rest.

Later, as Shen Zhaoer lay on the couch, Ji Heng suddenly stated, "I won't give you the medal. Your body and your life, both belong to me. If I don't want you dead, you'll never die in front of me." Shen Zhaoer, touched by his words, happily assented before drifting off to sleep. Ji Zheng reaffirmed his loyalty to Ji Heng, promising to remain by his side until all his troubles were resolved, pledging his unwavering support.

In the study, Ji Heng found himself inexplicably studying Shen Zhaoer, pondering how a man could possess such delicate features. Noticing Ji Heng's gaze, Shen Zhaoer inquired if there was something on her face, prompting Ji Heng to abruptly dismiss him from the room. Shen Zhaoer, though surprised by his sudden moodiness, was relieved it wasn't directed at her.

Elsewhere, Kang De advised his sister, Kang Ning er, to seize the opportunity presented by Ji Heng's recent stress to draw closer to him. He suggested sending him food and engaging him in heartfelt conversations. Kang Ning er, however, worried about being rejected, as Ji Heng had never accepted her homemade offerings.

Kang De then shrewdly pointed to Shen Zhaoer as a crucial "ladder" to becoming Ji Heng's wife, emphasizing that as Ji Heng's trusted confidant, Shen Zhaoer must be appeased. The Kang siblings approached Shen Zhaoer, requesting she deliver a special herbal tea to Ji Heng, citing his exhaustion. Shen Zhaoer initially feigned reluctance but quickly agreed upon receiving a generous payment, privately celebrating the much-needed income.

She presented the tea to Ji Heng, effusively praising Kang Ning er's efforts and feigning sympathy for the "weak girl" who had waited. Ji Heng, after tasting the tea, conceded it was well-made and, to Shen Zhaoer's dismay, "rewarded" the remaining tea to her. Shen Zhaoer, citing propriety and her desire to "enshrine" his gift, attempted to politely decline. However, Ji Heng, perceiving her discomfort, accused her of disdaining his used cup and insisted she drink it all.

Shen Zhaoer, despite her internal struggle and declarations of loyalty, forced herself to consume the bitter concoction. Later, she reported back to Kang Ning er and Kang De, exaggerating Ji Heng's positive reaction to the tea and his appreciation for Kang Ning er's "whole heart," securing additional rewards for her supposed help in fostering their connection.

During an outing to purchase medicinal herbs with Master Ye Zhi, Shen Zhaoer was intercepted by Mr. Tan, the owner of Pharmacy Tan, who, with his shy daughter Cuiya present, sought her help in matchmaking his daughter with Ji Heng. He presented a lavish thank-you gift. Though Shen Zhaoer feigned hesitation, she was inwardly delighted and even inquired if there were other maidens smitten with Ji Heng, playfully claiming she wanted to "fight off rivals" on Cuiya's behalf.

Back at Ji Mansion, Shen Zhaoer displayed a collection of gifts to Ji Heng, including an embroidered handkerchief with a love poem, a pair of hand-sewn boots, and even an intimate bellyband. Ji Heng, displeased, questioned the source of these "benefits." Shen Zhaoer attempted to explain them as sincere expressions of affection from the young women, which she felt unable to refuse.

Ji Heng, recalling the herbal tea incident, sternly accused her of opportunistically using his name to earn money without sharing the profits. After some negotiation, Shen Zhaoer reluctantly agreed to a 60-40 split in Ji Heng's favor. Ji Heng then visited Shen Zhaoer's quarters, discovering a treasure trove of valuable gifts: East Sea red coral from a prominent family, a century-old ginseng from Pharmacy Xu, and an authentic Luoshen Appraisal Painting from the Eastern Jin Dynasty.

He reflected that Shen Zhaoer's room would soon be more abundant than the Ji Mansion's treasury. Infuriated, he denounced her actions as "selling her master for benefits" and committing fraud by accepting gifts without fulfilling her promises, reminding her these were grave offenses. Despite his anger, Ji Heng left without physically punishing her, simply telling her to handle the situation herself.

Alone, Shen Zhaoer pondered Ji Heng's unexpected displeasure, wondering why he would object to women admiring him, especially as he would eventually marry. She found herself feeling a subtle sense of disappointment. Sheng Anhuai observed Ji Heng and later remarked that since the arrow incident, Ji Heng had grown remarkably trusting of Shen Zhaoer, no longer doubting his background.

Ji Heng affirmed his belief that Shen Zhaoer, though driven by a desire for small profits and flattery, was fundamentally honest and kind. Sheng Anhuai further pointed out that Ji Heng was no longer the "cold and indifferent" man he once was, and his emotions had become much easier to discern, an influence he attributed to Shen Zhaoer. Ji Heng curtly dismissed his attendant, silently questioning if he could indeed be so profoundly affected by a mere junior physician.

Conscious of Ji Heng’s displeasure, Shen Zhaoer promptly returned all the gifts she had received, lamenting the lost opportunities and money, especially the red coral. Realizing Ji Heng hadn't summoned her for three days, she feared jeopardizing the trust she had painstakingly built, even taking an arrow for him. Determined to regain his favor, she decided to purchase a personal gift for him. From the Treasure House, Shen Zhaoer acquired a soft body armor, which she presented to Ji Heng.

When asked about her choice, she explained that since their acquaintance, he had been subjected to two assassination attempts, making him a frequent target who undoubtedly required such protection. Ji Heng inquired about its origin, and Shen Zhaoer identified the Treasure House. He then informed her that the armor was a rare and valuable artifact from a previous dynasty, capable of withstanding most weapons.

Shen Zhaoer was pleasantly surprised, realizing she had stumbled upon a true treasure for a mere fifty strings of coins, though Ji Heng humorously pointed out that the ornate box cost more than the armor itself. She innocently replied that she simply believed the box suited him. As Ji Heng tried on the armor, Shen Zhaoer effusively complimented him, noticing his rare and genuine smile. She secretly rejoiced, confident that her position as his trusted confidante was now secure.

Ji Heng, pleased with the gift, instructed Sheng Anhuai to reward Shen Zhaoer with three times the amount she had spent. Overjoyed, Shen Zhaoer accepted the reward and then boldly requested a day's leave to exit the mansion, a request Ji Heng received with a hint of surprise.

Episode 11 Recap

Ji Heng admired the soft armor that Tian Qi had given him, instructing Sheng Anhuai to reward Tian Qi with three times its value. Tian Qi, overwhelmed with gratitude, requested a day off to deposit his new earnings at the bank, as he was too timid to keep such a sum at home. Ji Heng granted the request.

Tian Qi then enthusiastically invited Ji Heng to visit the bustling market with him, describing exciting attractions such as boxing, juggling, lively performances by female dancers from exotic lands, and the famous snack street in the west. Ji Heng, unfamiliar with such places, declined by stating that as the master of the area, he could not openly appear in public and disturb the civilians. He promised to listen to Tian Qi's stories upon his return.

Later, Ji Heng reflected on how Tian Qi had spent 50 guan on the soft armor but 60 guan on a box, concluding that Tian Qi genuinely put his heart into his gestures. Meanwhile, Sheng Anhuai remarked on Tian Qi's swift rise in Ji Heng's favor, playfully wondering if Tian Qi might soon replace him as the head of the mansion.

Tian Qi humbly dismissed the idea, stating he was just a minor doctor, and then presented Sheng Anhuai with a small bottle, hinting it was "a good thing that men like." Sheng Anhuai accepted the gift with a smile, recognizing Tian Qi's "meticulous" thoughtfulness. The following day, as Tian Qi, carrying a large sum of money, was heading to the bank, Ji Heng unexpectedly appeared in plain clothes, explaining his purpose was to observe the local populace.

He reminded Tian Qi to keep a low profile and avoid using his formal title. Tian Qi, after suggesting a few names from traditional Chinese medicine, settled on "Xiaobai," inspired by the herb Bai Heng, for Ji Heng. Ji Heng initially preferred "Young Master Ji," but Tian Qi playfully held him to his earlier promise of following his lead, making Ji Heng reluctantly agree to "Xiaobai," on the condition that Tian Qi would continue to serve him.

Tian Qi then suggested they first deposit the money and then he would help Ji Heng disguise himself further to avoid attracting unwanted attention. As they strolled through the market, Tian Qi paused at a jewelry stall, admiring a beautiful hairpin. Seeing the curious looks from the vendor and Ji Heng, Tian Qi quickly explained he intended to buy it for a young woman.

He then approached a nearby young woman, asking to try the hairpin on her, convinced it would look splendid. At that moment, a rich young master and his attendants approached. The young master disparaged the hairpin, then grandly offered to buy all the hairpins on the street for the young woman, attempting to take her away. Tian Qi intervened, asserting the woman's right to refuse. The young master grew aggressive, but Tian Qi swiftly delivered a kick to his groin.

Tian Qi then grabbed Ji Heng and tried to escape, but they were soon cornered. Tian Qi instinctively stepped in front of Ji Heng, but Ji Heng pulled him behind him and expertly dispatched the ruffians. Witnessing Ji Heng's martial prowess, Tian Qi was captivated, exclaiming how handsome he looked and immediately offered to treat him to a meal.

At a restaurant, Ji Heng observed Tian Qi's unrefined eating habits, finding it amusing that he had once suspected Tian Qi was a woman. Offended by this thought, Tian Qi resolved to completely dispel any such notions. He spotted a book stall and, to Ji Heng's shock, picked up an erotic painting, unabashedly declaring his "lecherous" nature and even joking about sneaking into women's bathhouses.

The vendor, eager to make a sale, boasted that even "Jieshuai" was a regular customer and produced a portrait of him. Ji Heng was incensed to see the crude and unflattering depiction, which he thought resembled Zhang Fei, and stormed off. Determined to further prove his masculinity, Tian Qi led Ji Heng to the Wanhong Club, a notorious red-light district. Inside, Tian Qi appeared to be a regular, openly embracing and drinking with the female dancers.

Ji Heng observed his familiarity, concluding he was a frequent patron. Tian Qi then excused himself to speak with Auntie Hong, the club's madam. He asked her if gaining Ji Heng's trust could aid his search for his parents' killer, noting that Ji Heng's influence would be invaluable. Auntie Hong also returned a handkerchief that Tian Qi had lost, which had been delivered to the club, sparking Tian Qi's concern that his identity might be compromised.

Auntie Hong, however, downplayed the threat and even suggested a "honey trap" should Ji Heng ever discover his true gender. Suddenly, Ji Heng's angry shouts erupted from the main room. Tian Qi rushed back to find Ji Heng furiously expelling the female dancers. Ji Heng reprimanded Tian Qi for bringing him to such a place, endangering his hard-earned reputation.

Tian Qi immediately knelt, confessing that his actions were driven by personal interest: the club's hostess had taken him in and funded his medical education after his parents' tragic deaths, making the establishment feel like family. Ji Heng's anger softened, and he allowed Tian Qi to rise, warning him not to repeat the mistake. Seizing the moment, Tian Qi reminded Ji Heng of his promised reward for saving him.

Since a Death-free gold medal was unattainable, he requested an access permit to enter and exit Ji Mansion freely, claiming it was to seek out new remedies for Ji Heng's insomnia. Ji Heng suspected Tian Qi was merely seeking freedom to play, but Tian Qi solemnly swore his intentions were genuine. Back at Ji Mansion, Ji Heng summoned Tian Qi and presented him with an access permit, allowing him free passage.

Tian Qi was overjoyed, but a thought struck him: his parents' killer might also possess such a token. He inquired how many people within Ji Mansion held such permits. Ji Heng revealed that no more than ten individuals, including the head of the mansion and commanders, had them, sternly adding that any attempt to sell it would be swiftly discovered. Tian Qi vehemently denied any intention of selling such a precious item.

Ji Heng then made him promise to limit his visits to the Wanhong Club. Alone, Tian Qi realized the killer of his parents was likely one of the few who held such a permit, steeling his resolve to uncover their identity. Sheng Anhuai cautiously expressed his concerns to Ji Heng about granting an access permit to Tian Qi, who had only been in the mansion for two months, fearing how it might be perceived.

Ji Heng, however, dismissed his worries, stating firmly that his trust in Tian Qi and his decisions regarding access to the mansion did not require anyone else's approval. Later, Ji Heng was holding the erotic painting Tian Qi had purchased when Sheng Anhuai entered. Sheng Anhuai immediately noticed the painting, offered a knowing glance, and no further explanation, quietly excused himself, leaving Ji Heng fuming in frustration.

Ji Zheng was astonished upon learning of the access permit granted to Tian Qi. He reflected that while he had tolerated Tian Qi's deception (being a woman disguised as a man) due to a perceived lack of malice towards Ji Mansion, Tian Qi's growing closeness to his brother now deeply worried him. He feared that if his brother were to be harmed because of this hidden identity, he would be gravely at fault.

Unwilling to expose Tian Qi directly, Ji Zheng resolved to investigate secretly and find a way to compel Tian Qi to reveal the truth. Meanwhile, Ji Heng was tormented by nightmares, calling out "Zhao'er" in his sleep. Tian Qi, hearing him, offered to check his pulse, wondering if Ji Heng's troubled sleep was connected to the tragic past of his own family and the miserable death of his parents.

Episode 12 Recap

Ji Heng sat on his bed, allowing Shen Zhao'er to take his pulse. He brought up her family's tragic past, mentioning how her parents died in an accident, and asked for more details, a hint of concern in his eyes. Shen Zhao'er, initially startled, quickly composed herself but avoided direct answers, instead recalling her difficult youth in a brothel, where she was exposed to local gangsters and frauds, shaping her street-smart nature.

Ji Heng then directly questioned her true intentions for coming to the Ji Mansion. Shen Zhao'er responded with flowery compliments, praising Ji Heng's past heroism in saving his father, quelling the rebellion in Mountain Hei and Dong Mountain Village, and earning the people's respect.

She explained that, due to her weak constitution, she couldn't join the army, so she decided to become a doctor, hoping one day to follow him to the front and fulfill a man's dream of serving the country. Ji Heng, hearing her praise and especially her aspiration for a man's dream of serving the country, immediately decided to help her fulfill this dream.

Shen Zhao'er, dressed in heavy armor and struggling to hold a spear, was taken to the training grounds. Ji Heng personally demonstrated a few moves, then guided her hand-in-hand in a posture that seemed like an embrace, a gesture that made her blush as he stood closely behind her. She insisted she could practice by herself, prompting Ji Heng to call for a file of new recruits.

Shen Zhao'er, suspecting Ji Heng still doubted her gender, resolved to practice diligently to avoid revealing her secret. However, the heavy armor and strenuous exercise soon overwhelmed her, and she fainted. A butler quickly called for Dr. Ding, while Ji Heng, despite a moment of concern, feigned indifference, stating that as a mere doctor, his feelings were irrelevant. He then left, entrusting the butler with Shen Zhao'er's care. Upon waking, Shen Zhao'er found herself in Ji Heng's room.

She immediately reverted to her usual antics, trying to leverage her fainting spell for personal gain. She lamented being "tortured" at the training grounds, claiming no other doctor had ever undergone such rigorous training. When Ji Heng offered compensation, she eagerly presented an IOU, asking him to settle her debts. Ji Heng, however, revealed he had already paid off her previous debts and even accompanied her to deposit the remaining funds.

Feigning memory loss due to sunstroke, Shen Zhao'er insisted she had many more debts and that she had returned all the generous gifts she had previously received, expressing her heartbreak over it. Ji Heng, exasperated by her theatrics, called her a "piggy brain" and urged her to speak directly in the future. Alone, Shen Zhao'er mused about Ji Heng's perplexing kindness, pondering a future where their true identities were revealed and their relationship transformed.

Now equipped with the special token from Ji Heng, Shen Zhao'er freely walked out of the Ji Mansion's main gate. Her mission: to bring down Sun Congrui. She knew he was a powerful marquis, not easily overthrown without finding his weakness. She staked out the Sun Mansion, and soon, Sun Fan, Sun Congrui's arrogant son, emerged, stepping on a servant's back to mount his carriage.

Shen Zhao'er trailed him to a restaurant, where Sun Fan met with Li Lin, the ruffian who had harassed Shen Zhao'er in the market. Sun Fan, disdainful of the modest establishment, quickly turned his attention to the restaurant owner's sister. After Li Lin called her over, Sun Fan made advances, leading to the owner trying to protect his sister and asking her to leave.

When the owner pleaded with Sun Fan to not cause trouble, Sun Fan, mocking him, ordered his henchmen to beat the owner and trash the restaurant. Witnessing this display of cruelty, Shen Zhao'er's resolve to seek revenge against the Sun family solidified. As Shen Zhao'er continued her surveillance, Ji Zheng intercepted her on a bridge. He revealed he had been observing her for days, noticing her constant presence outside the Sun Mansion.

Faced with no other choice, Shen Zhao'er confessed her true identity as a woman and admitted her deep-seated feud with Sun Congrui, though she refused to disclose the details. Ji Zheng pressed her further, asking why she, as a woman, disguised herself to enter the Ji Mansion.

Shen Zhao'er tried to evade the question, but Ji Zheng, citing the silk scarf he had found outside the mansion and the moment she fell into his arms during a previous altercation with Sun Dali, stated his certainty about her gender. He even provocatively suggested she remove her clothes for verification, a request Shen Zhao'er firmly rejected.

Cornered, Shen Zhao'er asserted that her presence in the Ji Mansion posed no threat to Ji Heng or the family, and that her mission was personal, a matter she could not yet reveal. She knelt, begging Ji Zheng that if he insisted on expelling her, he should kill her instead. Ji Zheng, moved by her plea, helped her up, declared his trust in her, and promised to keep her secret.

He vowed to protect her identity as long as she posed no threat to his brother or the Ji family. Shen Zhao'er, touched by his kindness, wondered why he treated her so well. Ji Zheng simply attributed it to fate and his belief that she was interesting, proposing they become friends. Shen Zhao'er, recognizing the strategic advantage of having Ji Zheng as an ally, agreed.

From that day on, she began calling him "A-Zheng" instead of "Little Marquis," while he affectionately called her "Xiao Qi." To celebrate their new friendship, Ji Zheng offered to treat Shen Zhao'er to a meal. She intentionally led him to the Eight Immortals Building, where she had spotted Sun Fan. Inside, they encountered Zheng Shaofeng, a friend of Ji Zheng and the son of the city's wealthiest man, who was engaged in a game.

Zheng Shaofeng invited them to join, offering 100 guan if Shen Zhao'er helped him win. Shen Zhao'er, always with an eye for profit, negotiated for 200 guan and confidently secured the victory for Zheng Shaofeng, making his opponents "call him grandpa" as per the bet. Unbeknownst to them, Li Lin, still smarting from a past beating by Shen Zhao'er, saw her playing downstairs and quickly informed Sun Fan.

Eager to avenge his friend, Sun Fan and Li Lin confronted Shen Zhao'er, Ji Zheng, and Zheng Shaofeng as they were leaving, demanding another game. Shen Zhao'er, secretly thrilled that her "fish" had taken the bait, readily agreed. She proposed a high-stakes bet: no money, but the loser must grant the winner any single request. Sun Fan, confident, dramatically suggested they bet their lives.

Shen Zhao'er boldly accepted, stating her life was his for the taking if he valued it so much. The game commenced, and after an intense match, Shen Zhao'er emerged victorious. Sun Fan, still believing a lowly doctor wouldn't dare demand much, readily confirmed he would honor any non-injurious request. Shen Zhao'er then made her demand: Sun Fan must strip to his undergarments and take a boat ride around the city moat.

Humiliated, Sun Fan furiously cursed Shen Zhao'er, vowing revenge as he begrudgingly fulfilled the bet, much to the amusement of the onlookers. Zheng Shaofeng, anticipating Sun Fan's petty nature, warned Shen Zhao'er of future retribution. However, Shen Zhao'er was unfazed, confident in Ji Zheng's protection and declaring that a new feud was inconsequential compared to her unavenged parents' deaths.

Ji Zheng, acknowledging the potential for further trouble, decided it was best for them to leave the building immediately, politely declining Zheng Shaofeng's offer to accompany them. Back at the Ji Mansion, Shen Zhao'er knelt by a small turtle, earnestly praying for its divine intervention to help her uncover the truth about her parents' murder.

Ru Yi, Ji Heng's young nephew who had just returned to the mansion, was drawn to her whimsical ritual and joined her in playing with the turtle. Ji Zheng, passing by, explained that Ru Yi was the son of Ji Heng's deceased elder brother and usually very withdrawn, rarely speaking to anyone, even him or Ji Heng. To their surprise, Ru Yi, upon meeting Shen Zhao'er, affectionately called her "Mama," much to their astonishment.

Ji Zheng jokingly remarked that Shen Zhao'er's male disguise wasn't as convincing as she thought. Just then, Ji Heng appeared, having observed their cheerful interaction from a distance. A flash of unidentifiable irritation crossed his face as he walked over and sharply reprimanded both Ji Zheng and Shen Zhao'er, barely acknowledging Ru Yi.

Episode 13 Recap

Shen Zhao'er was feeding a turtle when Ru Yi approached, fascinated by the creature. Ru Yi affectionately called Shen Zhao'er "Mom," which surprised Ji Zheng, who was already present. From a distance, Ji Heng witnessed the scene and, upon hearing Ru Yi's address, became visibly upset. He sternly ordered Shen Zhao'er to take Ru Yi to Madame Ji's room to reflect on their inappropriate behavior. Later, Ru Yi innocently asked Shen Zhao'er why "Big Uncle" was angry.

Shen Zhao'er, quick-witted, concocted a story that Ji Heng was upset because the divine turtle had hidden its head from him, preventing him from playing. Ru Yi, feeling sorry for Ji Heng, agreed to play with the turtle secretly with Shen Zhao'er in the future, and Shen Zhao'er consented. Ru Yi also promised not to call her "Mom" anymore, agreeing to call her Tian Qi instead. After the encounter, Ji Heng spoke with Ji Zheng about an ongoing investigation.

Ji Heng expressed concern that Dong Zichun, the young master of Dong Mountain Village, might be alive and living under a false identity, a possibility Ji Zheng acknowledged would be complicated. Ji Heng then suggested they both go to greet their mother, who had just returned to the mansion. Ji Zheng, however, made an excuse, claiming an appointment with Zheng Shaofeng, and promised to visit Madame Ji later.

Ji Heng urged him to go soon, mentioning how much their mother missed him. Later, Shen Zhao'er and Ding Zhi heard screams and discovered a maid being brutally beaten. Chun Hua quickly arrived and identified the merciless man as Chen Wuyong, Madame Ji's favored commander, who oversaw all guards in the mansion. Since Chen Wuyong had accompanied Madame Ji to the temple, Shen Zhao'er and Ding Zhi were unfamiliar with him.

Chun Hua warned them to stay away from Chen Wuyong due to his ruthless nature. This interaction jogged Chun Hua's memory, and she vaguely recalled seeing Chen Wuyong with a string of prayer beads identical to the one Shen Zhao'er had inquired about. Although not entirely certain, Shen Zhao'er was determined to investigate. Shen Zhao'er soon presented Chen Wuyong with a box of jewelry, carefully placing the unique prayer beads in a prominent position.

Chen Wuyong's expression changed upon seeing the beads, and he admitted they were indeed a set he had once given away, expressing surprise at their return. Capitalizing on his reaction, Shen Zhao'er then offered a special scar-removing ointment, which she claimed to have made after sustaining an injury while saving Ji Heng, and further claimed to have heard about an old injury on his right arm, offering it as particularly effective for old scars.

Chen Wuyong confirmed he had been injured years ago by a fierce animal. Convinced that Chen Wuyong was the black-clad assailant she had bitten years ago, Shen Zhao'er discreetly left. That night, Chen Wuyong was plagued by a nightmare where Shen Zhao'er, dressed in black, stabbed him in the neck. Waking in a cold sweat, he was deeply disturbed and decided that Shen Zhao'er must be eliminated using a 'borrowed knife' scheme.

The next day, Madame Ji brought Zhi Jin, a maid from the former Lady Shu's room, before her. Zhi Jin had been an accomplice in the murder of Infanta Shuncheng, whom Ji Heng had spared. Madame Ji, however, was not as lenient and prepared to punish her. Chen Wuyong intervened, cautioning Madame Ji that punishing Zhi Jin after Ji Heng had shown mercy might strain her relationship with her son. Madame Ji agreed to let Chen Wuyong handle Zhi Jin.

Seizing the opportunity, Zhi Jin claimed to have urgent information that could endanger Ji Heng. She revealed that Shen Zhao'er was a jinx, a person whose strong horoscope brought misfortune to their masters, and alleged that the Emperor sent him to Ji Heng because Ji Heng's own strong fate could counter it. Zhi Jin also pointed out that Ji Heng had faced numerous assassination attempts since Shen Zhao'er's arrival.

It was then revealed that Chen Wuyong, holding Zhi Jin's life hostage, had coerced her into making these accusations against Shen Zhao'er. When questioned by Madame Ji, Chen Wuyong further corroborated the claims, confirming his own verification. Convinced, Madame Ji declared that Shen Zhao'er could not be allowed to stay. Ding Zhi rushed to inform Shen Zhao'er of Madame Ji's decision to eliminate her, urging her to pack and flee.

Shen Zhao'er was surprised, and Ding Zhi revealed that Madame Ji had conspired with Chen Wuyong. Calming herself, Shen Zhao'er reasoned that as an imperial doctor and Ji Heng's personal physician, Madame Ji would not openly kill her. She predicted Madame Ji would first try to reassign her away from Ji Heng, then secretly dispose of her.

Shen Zhao'er devised a plan: she would feign a highly contagious illness, resembling smallpox, which would force her into quarantine, thus delaying Madame Ji's plot and keeping her safely within Ji Heng's domain. Ding Zhi found Shen Zhao'er preparing potent allergenic herbs, and after some questioning, understood her ingenious scheme to induce a severe rash and fever, creating a convincing facade of smallpox. He warned her of the intense discomfort but offered to provide an antidote when she was ready.

Shen Zhao'er, determined, decided to take the medicine that very night. As expected, the following day, Madame Ji formally requested Ji Heng to transfer Shen Zhao'er to her service, citing her own frequent ailments and Ru Yi's fondness for the doctor. Ji Heng, though somewhat surprised, agreed to his mother's request. However, shortly after, Ji Heng was informed that Shen Zhao'er had suddenly developed a fever and smallpox, necessitating his quarantine.

Madame Ji, upon hearing the news, immediately retracted her request for Shen Zhao'er. Ji Heng quickly pieced together the events, realizing Shen Zhao'er's "illness" was a clever ruse. Despite his concern, he reluctantly kept his distance, knowing that an open show of care might put Shen Zhao'er in greater danger. He pondered how he could protect Shen Zhao'er without directly confronting his mother.

Meanwhile, Shen Zhao'er, isolated and itchy from the medicine, reassured Ding Zhi that she was fine and committed to maintaining the charade. Later, Ji Heng and Ji Zheng joined Madame Ji for dinner. During the meal, Ji Heng subtly mentioned Ji Zheng's birth mother. Although Ji Heng and Ji Zheng were unaware, Madame Ji had been responsible for Ji Zheng's birth mother's death, and Ji Heng's words caused Madame Ji a moment of visible distress.

Ji Zheng, for his part, expressed profound gratitude to Madame Ji for her upbringing, believing even his birth mother would be thankful. Madame Ji then inquired about Ji Zheng's marriage prospects. Ji Zheng, smiling at a memory of Shen Zhao'er, replied he wasn't in a hurry but lightheartedly asked Ji Heng for help if he were to find a beloved. Ji Heng readily agreed. Ji Zheng then heard about Shen Zhao'er's "smallpox" and immediately went to visit him.

Despite Ding Zhi's earnest warnings about the contagiousness of the disease, Ji Zheng insisted on staying by Shen Zhao'er's side, declaring Shen Zhao'er his friend and refusing to leave him unattended. Ji Heng, meanwhile, found himself watching from afar, still wondering about Shen Zhao'er's well-being and what his next move should be.

Episode 14 Recap

Ji Zheng kept vigil by Tian Qi's bedside throughout the night. Meanwhile, General J, without Tian Qi by his side, also endured a sleepless night. The following morning, Sun Congrui arrived at the Ji Mansion, demanding an explanation. He accused Marquis Marvel of allowing a young man to publicly humiliate his son, Sun Pan.

Rumors were spreading that Marquis Marvel and a fair-looking man were seen entering and exiting a restaurant together, engaging in intimate behavior, a scandal that had become common knowledge. Chen Wuyong seized this opportunity to place all blame on Tian Qi, subtly suggesting to Madame Ji that Tian Qi was responsible for bewitching Marquis Marvel. Madame Ji, deep in thought, concluded that for the sake of the Ji family, Tian Qi could not be allowed to live.

Chen Wuyong, outwardly calm, was secretly pleased that his perceived threat was about to be eliminated. Later, Zheng Shaofeng invited Marquis Marvel for drinks, claiming he wanted to publicly affirm Marquis Marvel's normal masculinity. Marquis Marvel was furious about Sun Congrui's slanderous rumors. Zheng Shaofeng suggested that Sun Congrui was likely seeking revenge for his son and trying to implicate both Marquis Marvel and Tian Qi.

Marquis Marvel, however, was more concerned that his brother, General J, might misunderstand his relationship with Tian Qi. He then abruptly left. Madame Ji summoned General J, expressing her concern about Tian Qi's "hoodoo" fate, which she believed made him dangerous to keep around. She mentioned having consulted a fortune teller who confirmed Tian Qi's "harmful to his owner" destiny. General J, feigning compliance, agreed to "get rid of Tian Qi" to ease her worries.

He then subtly brought up Hermit Yuyang, a renowned fortune teller, whom he was scheduled to meet. Intrigued, Madame Ji decided to meet Hermit Yuyang herself. Hermit Yuyang praised the Ji Mansion's auspicious feng shui, then astutely observed Madame Ji's hidden anxieties. He requested Tian Qi's birth details and, after a brief look, declared Tian Qi to have a highly ominous fate.

Concurrently, Sheng Anhuai, following General J's earlier instructions, began leading Tian Qi through the mansion, pretending to take her to an execution ground. Tian Qi, anxious, questioned why General J wanted her dead. Sheng Anhuai confirmed General J's order but ironically suggested beheading her head right then so General J could verify her identity, mocking her fear. Tian Qi began to suspect General J's intentions, wondering if this elaborate charade was a way to save her life.

Just then, Marquis Marvel, having been informed by Chunhua of Tian Qi's impending execution, arrived in a fury, demanding Sheng Anhuai release her. Sheng Anhuai refused, citing General J's direct order. Before a conflict could escalate, Chen Wuyong arrived with a new command from Madame Ji: Tian Qi's life was to be spared, regardless of his alleged crimes, pending further discussion between Madame Ji and General J.

Sheng Anhuai later reported back to General J that everything unfolded as planned, and Madame Ji had indeed intervened. He praised General J's strategic brilliance in preemptively bringing Hermit Yuyang into the mansion, using the very concept of "fate" to counter Madame Ji's attempt to eliminate Tian Qi under the same pretext. General J, satisfied, instructed Sheng Anhuai to escort Hermit Yuyang out of the mansion, warning him never again to deceive people with such fortune-telling tricks.

Hermit Yuyang had explained to Madame Ji that while Tian Qi's fate was indeed "ominous," his elemental affinity (gold) perfectly complemented General J's (water), creating a beneficial dynamic. He argued that keeping Tian Qi by General J's side would enhance General J's good fortune and protect him from calamities. Convinced by this interpretation, Madame Ji swiftly dispatched Chen Wuyong to halt Tian Qi's execution.

After the ordeal, Marquis Marvel, overcome with relief, embraced Tian Qi, confessing his terror during her peril and how the journey to reach her felt impossibly long. He apologized for the embrace due to her "chickenpox." Marquis Marvel's aide, Xu Jing, observing Marquis Marvel's intense devotion, confirmed that Tian Qi was indeed the woman Marquis Marvel had sketched. He noted Marquis Marvel's unusual actions for Tian Qi and realized her identity as the woman he previously met explained his affections.

Marquis Marvel admitted that what began as curiosity had blossomed into a "blazing fire" of love after witnessing her brush with death. Xu Jing warned him of the severe risks associated with Tian Qi's disguise and the difficulties of marrying her. Marquis Marvel, however, vowed not to coerce her, to support her aspirations, and eventually find a way to restore her female identity, after which he could openly pursue marriage.

He strictly cautioned Xu Jing to keep Tian Qi's true gender an absolute secret, even from General J. Xu Jing quietly lamented the complex love story of his discerning master. Still caught in his unrequited love, Marquis Marvel gazed intently at a portrait of Tian Qi. Prompted by Xu Jing, he grew concerned that if General J were to discover Tian Qi's true female identity while she remained in the Ji Mansion, it would inevitably lead to her death.

He pondered how to resolve this situation once and for all, contemplating methods to ensure Tian Qi's safety by getting her out of the Ji Mansion. It was Marquis Marvel's first time falling for a woman, and he was undoubtedly pouring all his emotions into this wholeheartedly. Yet, this affection, he feared, might be destined to be fruitless.

Meanwhile, Tian Qi diligently studied remedies to treat General J's insomnia, meticulously noting down a recipe involving goat heart, rose petals, and saffron, designed to soothe and improve sleep. She expressed her frustration and anxiety about being confined and eagerly wished to return to General J's service. Unbeknownst to her, General J overheard her pleas. He then appeared, playfully chiding her for wanting to return to his side after he had nearly ordered her execution.

Tian Qi, ecstatic, greeted him, declaring her dream had come true. Sheng Anhuai, observing her, remarked on her increasingly refined flattery. General J inquired about her "chickenpox" and whether she was taking her medicine. Tian Qi confessed she was afraid to, suspecting that one of Madame Ji's confidantes was trying to poison her, as Madame Ji seemed to believe all the bad things said about her.

General J reassured her, stating, "Your life belongs to me; no one can kill you without my permission." Tian Qi replied that she wasn't afraid of death itself, but rather of being unable to serve him. General J, noting her quick recovery and eloquence, instructed her not to reappear before him until her face was completely clear, reminding her of her Yunifang Red Box facial cream.

He then questioned why, during her recent crisis, she sought help from Marquis Marvel instead of him. Tian Qi claimed she simply "forgot" and had a "little wish" that General J wouldn't truly kill her. General J left without further comment, leaving Tian Qi puzzled by his "strange" behavior. A few days later, Ding Zhi rushed to Tian Qi, frantically informing her that Madame Ji had sent for her. Ding Zhi worried aloud if Madame Ji regretted sparing her life. Tian Qi, feeling a sense of dread, knew she had no choice but to go, wondering herself if Madame Ji had changed her mind and sought to harm her again.

Episode 15 Recap

Shen Zhaor was summoned by Madame Ji. Expecting punishment, Shen Zhaor covertly wondered if Madame Ji regretted letting him go and wanted to end his life. Instead, Madame Ji offered him comfort, noting his handsome appearance and expressing concern for his recent illness, even promising to send him tonics. She also brought up the rumors of his close relationship with Marquis Marvel (Ji Zheng), noting how Ji Zheng had cared for him all night.

Shen Zhaor quickly explained that Ji Zheng had merely sought medicine from him and, upon finding Shen Zhaor ill, had shown his chivalrous nature by tending to him. Reassured, Madame Ji advised Shen Zhaor to be cautious with his words and actions to avoid gossip. She then instructed Shen Zhaor to serve General J (Ji Heng) from now on. Shen Zhaor feigned immense gratitude, promising to diligently care for General J and not disappoint Madame Ji.

After Shen Zhaor departed, Madame Ji reiterated to Chen Wuyong that if Tian Qi (Shen Zhaor) could indeed protect her son from disaster, as Hermit Yuyang had stated, then his safety was paramount. She ordered Chen Wuyong to assign bodyguards to protect him within the mansion. Chen Wuyong, however, expressed skepticism about Hermit Yuyang's words, questioning what would happen if Tian Qi actually brought disaster to General J.

Madame Ji, firm in her decision, dismissed his doubts, stating she would observe for herself and reiterated that Tian Qi was not to be harmed without her direct order. Shen Zhaor returned to serve Ji Heng. He dramatically expressed his joy, claiming he hadn't slept all night anticipating his return to Ji Heng's side. Ji Heng, after telling him to rise, directly asked if Madame Ji had summoned him.

Shen Zhaor confirmed, praising Ji Heng as a "prophet" and relaying Madame Ji's instructions to care for Ji Heng and himself, remarking on her apparent concern. Ji Heng acknowledged that his plan seemed to be working. Shen Zhaor then asked if Ji Heng was the one who invited Hermit Yuyang to save him, but Ji Heng curtly advised him not to ask too many questions, adding that "only a fool can live long."

Sheng Anhuai prompted Shen Zhaor to thank Ji Heng, which he did with an effusive declaration of his devotion, claiming he was heartbroken at the thought of not serving Ji Heng and wished to do so for eternity. Ji Heng, remarking on Shen Zhaor's eloquence, suggested he become a storyteller, to which Shen Zhaor responded that he couldn't, as it would prevent him from serving Ji Heng.

Meanwhile, Sun Pan continued to investigate Shen Zhaor's identity, but his subordinates had found nothing beyond the fact that Shen Zhaor was close to Marquis Marvel. Frustrated, Sun Pan berated them for their incompetence, lamenting his inability to seek revenge. His father, Sun Congrui, joined him, inquiring about his anger. Sun Pan complained about the "bastard" who made him lose face, convinced that the incident was related to the Ji Family because of the man's closeness to Ji Zheng.

Sun Congrui, already displeased with Ji Heng's perceived arrogance due to his imperial trust and power, declared his intention to challenge Ji Heng directly. Adding to this tension, Ji Heng, concerned about the rampant plague and the suffering of the people, planned to reduce taxes for the poor and increase taxes on the wealthy. This initiative required Sun Congrui's consent, and his obstruction could jeopardize its implementation.

Sun Pan eagerly asked if his father was serious, to which Sun Congrui confidently affirmed, urging him to wait and see. Ji Zheng asked Shen Zhaor to meet him outside the mansion. On a bridge where they had first met, Ji Zheng presented Shen Zhaor with a jade pendant, explaining its significance: holding it meant he was Ji Zheng's person. In case of danger, showing the jade would buy time for Ji Zheng to come to his rescue.

Shen Zhaor initially refused the valuable gift due to its significance, but Ji Zheng insisted. He emotionally confessed that while he had faced many dangers, he only felt truly scared when Shen Zhaor was in peril. He did not want to lose anyone important to him and asked Shen Zhaor to accept it for his peace of mind. Feeling guilty for constantly receiving help, Shen Zhaor expressed his inability to reciprocate.

Ji Zheng countered by saying Shen Zhaor's existence was a divine gift, and he was only truly happy when with him, urging him to accept the jade for Ji Zheng's own sake. Reluctantly, Shen Zhaor accepted, hoping they would never have to use it and that both would remain safe. After receiving the jade, Shen Zhaor agreed to show Ji Zheng around town, thinking all the while about finding something interesting to cheer up Ji Heng.

Meanwhile, Ji Heng had learned that the man involved in the scandalous rumors with Ji Zheng was none other than Shen Zhaor, and seeing them leave the mansion separately but heading in the same direction fueled his anger. He took his carriage and searched the streets, eventually spotting Ji Zheng holding Shen Zhaor's hand to keep him safe from a passing cart. Ji Heng secretly followed them to a restaurant where they were watching a dance performance.

Ji Zheng and Shen Zhaor, however, were unaware that the performance was an explicit dance. Ji Zheng tried to cover Shen Zhaor’s eyes when a more explicit dance began, insisting he wouldn't have brought him there if he knew. Shen Zhaor, feigning admiration for the dancer's figure, surprised Ji Zheng with his "boldness." Just then, Ji Heng arrived.

Ji Zheng attempted to clarify that he and Shen Zhaor were merely friends, but Ji Heng, furious, ordered Sheng Anhuai to take Ji Zheng out, stating he wished to speak with Shen Zhaor privately. Ji Zheng pleaded for his brother's trust, but Ji Heng's command was absolute. Ji Heng confronted Shen Zhaor, questioning his brazenness as a doctor to bring a noble like Ji Zheng to such a place to see "dancing."

Shen Zhaor initially protested, asking why others could visit such establishments but he and Ji Zheng could not, claiming he hadn't tarnished Ji Zheng's reputation. Ji Heng, however, sternly forbade Shen Zhaor from getting close to his brother, especially after seeing them hold hands, expressing concern about public perception and implying suspicion of an illicit relationship. Realizing Ji Heng's fear of a "cut-sleeve" relationship between him and Ji Zheng, Shen Zhaor quickly changed tactics.

He dramatically confessed to being "horny" and unable to control himself when seeing beautiful women dance, attributing their presence at the "erotic dance" to his own depravity. Ji Heng, though disgusted, was reminded of Shen Zhaor's past purchase of erotic books for him. This, combined with Shen Zhaor's lecherous display, alleviated Ji Heng's suspicions, making him believe Ji Zheng was merely curious about Shen Zhaor's crude interests, not romantically involved.

He dismissed Shen Zhaor as vulgar and nasty and ordered them to return to the mansion. Shen Zhaor dutifully complied, calling Ji Heng "the god." After Ji Zheng was escorted away, Shen Zhaor joined Ji Heng in his carriage. He enthusiastically pointed out sights in the city, like street performers and Western merchants with camels, but Ji Heng remained unimpressed.

To prove his "manhood," Shen Zhaor recounted a harrowing tale of getting lost while foraging for herbs and surviving by eating insects and roots, emphasizing how hard his past was. Ji Heng, in turn, revealed his own vulnerability, admitting he was scared the first time he went to war. He then reassured Shen Zhaor, telling him to remember he was "my man" and that Ji Heng was his "shield" if anyone dared to bully him.

As they continued, Shen Zhaor spotted Sun Pan approaching and, recognizing him, got out of the carriage after telling Ji Heng to stay hidden. Sun Pan, not recognizing Ji Heng in the carriage and emboldened by his father's status, arrogantly stopped their carriage. Shen Zhaor immediately provoked him by asking if he missed their last "streaking" competition. Enraged, Sun Pan ordered his men to seize Shen Zhaor.

From inside the carriage, Ji Heng sternly intervened, declaring Shen Zhaor "my man" and warning anyone against taking him. Sun Pan, mistaking Ji Heng for one of Ji Zheng's associates, taunted him, accusing Shen Zhaor of having multiple "lovers." Ji Heng, unfazed, gave Sun Pan a chance to leave, but the latter remained defiant. Before Sun Pan's men could advance, Ji Heng's hidden guards appeared, holding swords to their throats, quickly subduing them.

Back in the carriage, Ji Heng questioned Shen Zhaor about tricking Sun Pan into streaking, which Shen Zhaor readily admitted, noting Ji Zheng was also present. Ji Heng then asked if he often went out with Ji Zheng. Seeing Shen Zhaor sweating, Ji Heng asked for his handkerchief.

Shen Zhaor proudly produced the handkerchief Ji Heng had given him, explaining that he treasured it as a gift from Ji Heng and planned to give it to the girl he liked someday, rather than using it for sweat. While Shen Zhaor and his master, Ding Zhi, were studying herbs, a distressed house servant arrived, carrying his sick brother who was suffering from severe vomiting after drinking.

Just then, Kang Ning'er, Madame Ji's niece, burst in, demanding that Shen Zhaor immediately treat her slightly injured finger. Ding Zhi offered his services, but Kang Ning'er insisted only Shen Zhaor could treat her. Shen Zhaor, prioritizing the critically ill servant, asked Kang Ning'er to wait. Outraged at being made to wait for a servant, Kang Ning'er tried to bribe Shen Zhaor with money, but Shen Zhaor remained steadfast, emphasizing that human life was paramount, not wealth.

He then instructed Ding Zhi to gather specific herbs for the servant. Enraged, Kang Ning'er stormed off, vowing not to forgive Shen Zhaor. She immediately complained to Madame Ji, claiming Shen Zhaor had publicly humiliated her. Madame Ji, however, chastised Kang Ning'er for her "spoiled" and "arrogant" temper, advising her to be more generous if she wished to marry into the Ji family, reminding her that Ji Heng would likely side against her in such a matter.

Madame Ji then instructed her attendant to keep an eye on Tian Qi, but seemed to believe Kang Ning'er was "spoiled" and Tian Qi had become "arrogant now." Later, Sheng Anhuai reported the incident to Ji Heng. He expressed surprise that Shen Zhaor, whom he considered greedy, had refused Kang Ning'er's money to prioritize saving a servant's life. He also praised Shen Zhaor's medical skill, noting the servant's quick recovery. This incident significantly changed Ji Heng's perception of Shen Zhaor.

Despite his improved opinion of Shen Zhaor, Ji Heng still found the rumors and the image of Ji Zheng holding Shen Zhaor's hand unsettling. The next morning, he summoned both Shen Zhaor and Ji Zheng. He informed Ji Zheng that their mother was concerned about his unmarried status and suggested Lord Feng's first daughter, describing her as knowledgeable, talented, and virtuous – a perfect match.

Ji Zheng, however, deflected, suggesting such a woman would be a better sister-in-law for Ji Heng, to help manage the mansion. Ji Heng then proposed Ju Ming's daughter, known for her martial arts skills and equestrian prowess, believing she would be more compatible with Ji Zheng. Again, Ji Zheng deflected, suggesting Ji Heng meet her first.

Exasperated, Ji Heng demanded to know Ji Zheng's true objections, but Ji Zheng only offered a poetic refusal, calling himself "putrid grass in the mud" and unworthy of such "jade-like" women. Ji Heng then turned to Shen Zhaor, asking for his opinion on who would be suitable for Ji Zheng. Shen Zhaor, eager to avoid involvement, initially claimed it was none of his business and praised both brothers as too transcendent for ordinary women.

Pressed by Ji Heng and securing a promise not to be punished, Shen Zhaor bluntly stated that Ji Zheng should marry whoever he liked, questioning why a doctor like him was being asked about such personal matters. Ji Heng, though not punishing him, was surprised by being perceived as a bully. He then dismissed both of them, stating he would reconsider Ji Zheng's marital prospects.

Ji Zheng was confused by Ji Heng's attempt at matchmaking, but Shen Zhaor shrewdly guessed it was a test, stemming from rumors that she, disguised as a man, was seducing Ji Zheng. Shen Zhaor explained this to Ji Zheng, who, far from being angered by the rumor of seduction, seemed pleased. Ji Zheng began to confess his true feelings to Shen Zhaor, saying, "I don't care what others say. Qi, actually I. . ."

However, he was interrupted by Sheng Anhuai, who arrived to summon Shen Zhaor back to Ji Heng. Relieved by the timely interruption, Shen Zhaor quickly excused himself. Walking away, she mused on Ji Zheng's unstated feelings, realizing that Ji Zheng might indeed have romantic intentions. To prevent further misunderstandings, Shen Zhaor resolved to keep her distance from Ji Zheng. Shen Zhaor then went to Ji Heng, who explained he wanted Shen Zhaor to meet someone to help clarify the misunderstanding about Ji Zheng.

Episode 16 Recap

Ji Heng summoned Dr. Tian Qi, stating he wanted him to meet someone and help Ji Zheng clarify a misunderstanding. As Sun Congrui entered, he immediately confronted Ji Heng, demanding justice for his son, Sun Pan, who had been arrested again. Ji Heng introduced Dr. Tian Qi as the person who was with Ji Zheng during the previous incident that Sun Congrui had complained about.

Sun Congrui, clearly annoyed, suggested that Dr. Tian Qi must be the Young Marquis's favored person and questioned Ji Heng's discipline, implying that two men bullying his son was inappropriate behavior. Dr. Tian Qi, however, firmly declared his integrity, stating he would even take the matter to court to prove his innocence. Ji Heng then presented a petition from numerous locals accusing Sun Pan of serious offenses, including harassing women, preying on ordinary people, and instigating gang fights.

He also reminded Sun Congrui that his son had blocked Ji Heng's carriage on the street, which was an act of disrespect. Ji Heng warned that reporting these matters to the Emperor would result in severe punishment for Sun Pan. Transitioning to state affairs, Ji Heng spoke of recent natural disasters and crop failures, proposing a reduction in common taxes and an increase in taxes on the wealthy.

He urged Sun Congrui not to obstruct this policy and to be sympathetic to the people's needs. Caught in a difficult position, with evidence piling up against his son, Sun Congrui reluctantly agreed to support the tax reforms. After Sun Congrui left, Dr. Tian Qi questioned Ji Heng for seemingly letting the Sun family off lightly, calling it "officials shielding each other" and asking if it was truly fair to the common people.

Ji Heng sternly reminded Dr. Tian Qi that his role as a doctor was to save lives, not to interfere in politics, and warned that such interference could lead to him being charged under national law. Dr. Tian Qi maintained that he was speaking the truth, further questioning if letting the Sun family go would not disappoint the people.

Ji Heng then confronted Dr. Tian Qi about the suspicious coincidences of encountering Sun Pan multiple times and the intense look in his eyes when facing Sun Congrui, suggesting Dr. Tian Qi was hiding something. Dr. Tian Qi confessed that he had intentionally provoked Sun Pan, driven by hatred for the humiliation he endured and the belief that Sun Pan's father had failed to discipline him. He admitted to wanting Ji Heng to punish Sun Pan.

Ji Heng, however, declared he would not act against the Sun family for a mere doctor. He accused Dr. Tian Qi of becoming arrogant due to his favor and ordered him to kneel in reflection, not to rise without his permission. Dr. Tian Qi accepted the punishment. Later that night, as heavy rain began to fall, Ji Heng, despite being told Dr. Tian Qi was still kneeling, decided to check on him.

Sheng Anhuai, finding Dr. Tian Qi still kneeling in the rain, informed him that Ji Heng, out of kindness, had allowed him to return to his room to reflect. As Dr. Tian Qi attempted to show gratitude, he fainted from exhaustion and exposure. Ji Heng moved forward to help but stopped short, constrained by his status in the presence of others, and instead instructed Sheng Anhuai to ensure Dr. Tian Qi was properly cared for.

Sheng Anhuai later ensured Dr. Tian Qi was given ginger soup and light food. He gently admonished Dr. Tian Qi for his conduct, reminding him that a doctor should not meddle in the general's affairs and had "crossed the line." Dr. Tian Qi reflected that he was wrong to assume Ji Heng would avenge him and concluded he must rely on himself for revenge. Meanwhile, Ji Zheng, upon learning of Dr. Tian Qi's punishment and collapse, rushed to his room.

Dr. Tian Qi, however, refused to open the door, explaining that he did not want Ji Zheng to get into an argument with Ji Heng because of him. Ji Zheng, sensing Dr. Tian Qi's desire to be alone, left, wondering if he was seen merely as a friend.

Sun Congrui came to Ji Heng's mansion, furious that Ji Heng had recommended Sun Pan to lead disaster relief in a plague-ridden area, believing it was a deliberate attempt to harm his son. Sun Congrui pointed out he had already fulfilled Ji Heng's request regarding the tax increase. Ji Heng maintained that he was simply providing an opportunity for Sun Pan to gain favor with the Emperor.

Ji Heng offered to rescind the recommendation, but this forced Sun Congrui to accept the dangerous assignment to save face, ending their discussion by declaring their relationship irrevocably broken. At the Sun residence, Sun Pan was in a rage, breaking objects and begging his father to prevent his deployment.

Sun Congrui angrily told him that he could no longer help, as Ji Heng possessed all the evidence of Sun Pan's misdeeds, and despite Sun Congrui already alienating the wealthy for his son's sake, Ji Heng had not relented. Sun Pan pleaded, even suggesting they pledge loyalty to Ji Heng, which only further enraged his father. Later, Sun Congrui met with Kang De, proposing an alliance to overthrow the Ji brothers.

Kang De, however, expressed his ambition to become the new Jiedushi. Sun Congrui reminded him that individuals with physical disabilities were barred from holding such official positions, leading Kang De to feign disinterest in the alliance. Privately, Kang De revealed his true cunning plan: to have his sister, Kang Ning'er, marry Ji Heng and bear his child.

Once an heir was secured, he would eliminate the Ji brothers and install Kang Ning'er's child as Jiedushi, allowing Kang De to wield true power from behind the scenes. In an attempt to further his scheme, Kang De arranged for Sheng Anhuai to bring Ji Heng to an area where Kang Ning'er was performing. However, Ji Heng merely glanced at her before turning and leaving without a word.

A dejected Kang Ning'er feared Ji Heng's disapproval, but Kang De reassured her, instructing her that winning Ji Heng's heart required patience and a step-by-step approach, starting with mastering arts such as music, chess, calligraphy, painting, dancing, and cooking – skills Kang Ning'er admitted she completely lacked. Ji Heng, meanwhile, was burdened by guilt over punishing Shen Zhao'er (Dr. Tian Qi).

He observed Shen Zhao'er's newfound caution and coldness, which made him uneasy, realizing his anger often stemmed from Shen Zhao'er's reluctance to seek his help. Sheng Anhuai, understanding the complex situation, spoke with Shen Zhao'er, revealing that Ji Heng had recommended Sun Pan for the dangerous disaster relief mission for Shen Zhao'er's benefit, effectively offending the powerful Sun family.

He explained that Ji Heng's actions were part of a larger strategy and urged Shen Zhao'er to understand the weight of Ji Heng's position. Sheng Anhuai stressed that while Shen Zhao'er's compassion for the people was commendable, loyalty to Ji Heng should be paramount. Shen Zhao'er, hearing this, realized she had been shortsighted and had not considered the sacrifices Ji Heng made for her.

Sheng Anhuai advised her to put the punishment behind her and resume her duties with her usual respectful demeanor. Later, in her room, Shen Zhao'er engaged in an internal debate, acknowledging her fear and coldness towards Ji Heng stemmed from the realization that she had developed feelings for him. Despite her mission for revenge and her refusal of Ji Zheng's affection, she struggled to deny her growing attachment to Ji Heng, believing she had no right to love anyone.

The following day, Ji Heng sought to make amends with Dr. Tian Qi for the punishment. Knowing Dr. Tian Qi's fondness for money, he presented him with a generous reward, saying, "Didn't you say you love money? These are all yours."

Episode 17 Recap

Ji Heng, wishing to apologize, presented two chests of silver to Tian Qi. His awkward yet proud demeanor made her smile. However, Tian Qi lost interest in the money, wanting only to know if Ji Heng regretted punishing her. Given Ji Heng's stubborn nature, it was clear he had never formally apologized or sought reconciliation before. When he refused to admit any regret, stating, "Why should I regret?

You deserved to be punished," Tian Qi declined the silver, saying, "No merit, no reward. I'll excuse myself." This left Ji Heng utterly at a loss, wondering why Tian Qi had not taken his olive branch. Later, Ji Heng filled the Ji estate with kites, each bearing the character for "Regret," written by his own hand. One kite, carrying his heartfelt message, landed before Tian Qi. Seeing the character, she was overjoyed, realizing Ji Heng truly regretted punishing her.

Following the trail of kites, she found Ji Heng, who, flustered, claimed he was merely "practicing calligraphy." Tian Qi then, on a new kite, wrote the character for "Joy," signaling their unspoken understanding. " I want to fly one," she declared. They began flying kites together, Ji Heng guiding her hands on the same string. Tian Qi playfully called herself "silly," saying, "I am a blessed silly with your lordship by my side."

Their close proximity made it impossible for Tian Qi to deny her true feelings; she had genuinely fallen for Ji Heng. Their happiness was short-lived when Ji Zheng arrived to ask Ji Heng for Tian Qi to be the steward of his new residence. Ji Zheng explained he had decided to stay in the city, but his new mansion lacked a capable steward. Ji Heng immediately understood Ji Zheng's true intentions, saying, "Zheng, I need you to be honest.

I know your request is just an excuse." He then accused Ji Zheng of becoming "outrageous" due to Tian Qi's "inappropriate" manners. Ji Zheng countered, asking why Ji Heng kept Tian Qi if he was so bad, and even suggested Ji Heng feared rumors by keeping "such a beautiful doctor" by his side. This completely infuriated Ji Heng, who declared, "Impudence! You're being irrational, ridiculous, and disobedient." He ordered his guards to "Take him to the ancestral hall.

Execute the family discipline." Tian Qi, witnessing the scene, quickly intervened as Ji Zheng was being led away. She asked Sheng Anhuai what happened and was told that Ji Zheng wanted her to be his steward, which angered Ji Heng, especially with the existing rumors between her and Ji Zheng. Ji Heng gave Ji Zheng a final chance to abandon his request, but Ji Zheng firmly refused, stating, "Brother, I have made up my mind. I'll take any punishment."

Tian Qi then rushed forward, taking all the blame upon herself, saying, "My lord, it's my fault. It has nothing to do with Marquis Marvel. It's me who offered to be his steward. Please spare him." When Ji Heng demanded she explain, she feigned shyness and asked to speak without others present. Once alone, she made a half-hearted "confession," saying, "I like you," quickly changing it to, "I admire you. You are like the sun in the sky."

When Ji Heng questioned why she would leave him if she admired him, she offered a convoluted explanation, mixing admiration for Ji Heng with a materialistic desire to secure a future with Ji Zheng, who had "enormous farmlands and tea plantations." Ji Heng, upset, summarized her reasoning as being "all for money," and declared, "Tian Qi, you are free from me," implying dismissal from his service. Tian Qi was shocked, asking, "What did he mean? Is he kicking me away?"

Ji Heng returned to his room, ordering Sheng Anhuai out, saying, "Let me use some peace." But soon called him back, fuming about "that Tian Qi," whom he had treated as a friend, being unfaithful for "a little money from Zheng." He questioned Sheng Anhuai, "Do you think I am irritable, unfriendly? And Zheng is more kind and easygoing?"

Sheng Anhuai diplomatically responded that Ji Heng, as a powerful leader, needed to be "unpredictable in emotion," while Ji Zheng, with less responsibility, could be "care free." He compared Ji Heng to the dazzling but sometimes unapproachable sun, and Ji Zheng to the gentle moon. Ji Heng then ordered Ji Zheng to "go back to reflect on himself." Tian Qi, still wanting to serve, returned to Ji Heng's room during bedtime, even though she wasn't on duty.

She attempted to offer him newly made sachets with "Jonquils, Jasmines and mints" to help with sleep. Ji Heng curtly refused, stating, "I have already recovered from insomnia. I don't need it anymore." Tian Qi was disheartened, realizing, "It seems that he doesn't need me anymore." On Dragon Boat Festival, Tian Qi brought Zongzis to Ji Heng. Despite her genuine concern, her clumsy words often led Ji Heng to believe she was merely seeking rewards.

He even gifted her two Gold Zongzis, telling her, "Get out. Don't bother me." Later, Ru Yi found Tian Qi secretly smiling at the Gold Zongzis and inquired about the festival. Tian Qi explained that Dragon Boat Festival was also known as Daughter's Day, when families would "dress her up beautifully."

When Ru Yi mentioned Madame Ji's long-standing wish for a granddaughter, Tian Qi had an idea: she could try to please Madame Ji to ensure her place in the household, so she "can still stay in mansion Ji." She then helped Ru Yi dress up as a girl. Tian Qi brought Ru Yi, dressed as a girl, to pay respects to Madame Ji. Ru Yi explained his intention was to make Madame Ji happy, as she wished for a granddaughter.

Madame Ji was delighted by Ru Yi's filial gesture and rewarded Tian Qi with two gold ingots. On their way back, they encountered Ji Heng, who, misinterpreting the situation, believed Tian Qi had used Ru Yi to seek a reward. He declared, "There is nothing you can't do to make money." As punishment, he ordered Tian Qi to wear a girl's dress.

Tian Qi, pleading desperately but in vain, then humorously drew a mustache on her face, muttering, "What should I do?" She complained about the discomfort of women's clothes to Ji Heng, who retorted that she "ruined the dress" and "disgraced all women in the world," instructing her to "sit well" and "stop swearing." Ji Heng and Ru Yi then took her on a boat trip. On the boat, Tian Qi deliberately behaved rudely, shouting, "The fxxking heat is killing me."

In an attempt to appease him, she tried to feed Ji Heng a Hibiscus Cake she had made herself, but stumbled on her skirt and fell directly into his arms. This scene was witnessed by Kang De and his sister, with the sister asking, "Who is the woman cousin is holding?" Kang De, recognizing Tian Qi, exclaimed, "What a shame!" That night, Ji Heng discussed the remnants of the Dong family with Ji Zheng.

Ji Zheng reported that "their vestiges are getting together these years," warning Ji Heng to "be careful." Ji Heng instructed Ji Zheng to continue the investigation with caution. After business matters, Ji Heng observed that Ji Zheng was still angry about his punishment. Ji Zheng denied it, but Ji Heng could tell by his formal demeanor. Ji Heng then reiterated his concern for Ji Zheng's safety in the dangerous Dong family investigation.

Despite Ji Heng's softened tone, Ji Zheng remained distant and unwavering in his stance about Tian Qi. Displeased, Ji Heng returned to his chamber to find Tian Qi asleep while waiting for him. Ji Heng's anger flared, and he stated, "If you don't want to serve me, don't come here again." When Tian Qi pleaded that it was her "honor to serve," Ji Heng scoffed, "What an ass-kisser!"

He then referenced her earlier desire to leave, saying, "Now that you asked Zheng to take you out, for everything you've done for me, I'll get you a new job." He called Sheng Anhuai and ordered him, "Take him away. Don't let me see him again!" Tian Qi, heartbroken, begged him to believe her, "I will never betray you because of money!" as she was led away.

Sheng Anhuai later suggested sending Tian Qi to the army as a surgeon, but Ji Heng still found it "not far enough," commanding, "Send him farther. I don't want to see him again."

Episode 18 Recap

Ji Heng told Sheng Anhuai to find a place for Tian Qi where he wouldn't see her, rejecting the suggestion of sending him to the army as "not far enough." Sheng Anhuai then proposed assigning Tian Qi to cultivate in the herb fields, reasoning that Ji Heng had never visited that area, ensuring he wouldn't encounter Tian Qi. Ji Heng agreed to this.

Tian Qi was sent to work in the herb fields daily, and her master, Ding Zhi, was also demoted there for having spoken on her behalf. Kang Ning'er brought homemade red bean cake to Madame Ji, who praised her culinary skills and expressed how lonely she would be without Ning'er's company. Madame Ji also lamented that Ji Heng refused to marry Ning'er despite her repeated suggestions, but Ning'er insisted she was content simply staying by their side.

When Ji Heng entered and greeted his mother, Kang Ning'er immediately noticed his poor complexion and inquired about his well-being. Ji Heng attributed it to heavy official duties. Madame Ji then urged him to consider marriage, suggesting it was time he had someone to care for him. Ji Heng gave his assent, though it was clear he did not share his mother's enthusiasm for Kang Ning'er.

At the herb fields, Ding Zhi confessed his confusion to Tian Qi about why Ji Heng had demoted them, especially since he had only spoken a few words on her behalf. Tian Qi admitted she found Ji Heng's moods unpredictable and expressed her desire to return to Mansion Ji to investigate the truth behind past events involving Madame Ji and Chen Wuyong. Ding Zhi pragmatically pointed out that she needed money even to gather information.

The strenuous labor and hot weather took their toll on Tian Qi, who, not being as robust as a man, fainted from sunstroke while moving herbs. After she regained consciousness, she found Ding Zhi wearing one of her newly developed facial masks. He praised its comforting effect and suggested they sell it in the city to "girls who love beauty" to earn money.

Tian Qi then explained that the facial cream, called "Yunifang" (mask/facial cream), was made using her father Shen Qingyun's "splashing technique," a method of grinding with water and repeated filtration to create a fine, smooth mud. When combined with chalcanthitum, this mud had the effect of cleansing and moisturizing the skin. They resolved to begin searching for chalcanthitum the following day. Back at Mansion Ji, Ji Heng continued to suffer from sleepless nights, much to Sheng Anhuai's concern.

Sheng Anhuai begged him to reconsider bringing Tian Qi back, reminding him that his insomnia could only be treated by Tian Qi and expressing worry about Ji Heng's health. Ji Heng, however, maintained his decision, vaguely stating he had his reasons and even questioning if Sheng Anhuai found Tian Qi to be a mysterious individual. Despite his outward resolve, Ji Heng privately inquired about Tian Qi's welfare.

Sheng Anhuai reported that Tian Qi, unaccustomed to manual labor, had fainted from sunstroke due to the intense heat and arduous work in the herb fields. This news clearly distressed Ji Heng, who only calmed down when assured that Tian Qi was now recovering and well. That night, Ji Heng was tormented by the same recurring nightmare; the girl he secretly yearned for turned into Tian Qi, who was disguised as a man, when she finally faced him.

He awoke with a start, instinctively calling out Tian Qi's name, only to find Kang Ning'er by his bedside. She explained that she had heard of his sleeplessness and offered to replace Tian Qi in fanning him to sleep. Ji Heng reacted with fury, reprimanding her sharply and ordering her out, declaring he needed no one's service.

As she dejectedly left, he picked up the fan on the floor, his mind drifting to memories of Tian Qi faithfully fanning him to sleep. Kang Ning'er, humiliated by his rejection and his calling out Tian Qi's name, felt her hatred for Tian Qi intensify. Kang Ning'er confided in her brother, Kang De, about the humiliating encounter, lamenting that Ji Heng had mistaken her for Tian Qi and angrily dismissed her.

She expressed her frustration that in Ji Heng's eyes, she was less important than Tian Qi's "brotherhood," and that Tian Qi's constant presence had prevented her from getting close to Ji Heng. Kang De, in turn, reassured her, promising to "take care" of the "annoying" Tian Qi and "guarantee he won't come back." He suggested that with Tian Qi now outside the mansion and at the herb fields, it was the "best time" to eliminate her.

In a secluded chamber, Chen Wuyong, who was addressed as "Master" by the Dong family's young master, met with him. The young master inquired about recent developments in Mansion Ji. Chen Wuyong reported that Ji Heng, due to Ji Zheng’s close relationship with Tian Qi, had directly provoked Sun Congrui by taking action against the Sun family. Although Ji Heng had then inexplicably sent Tian Qi away, Chen Wuyong saw this as an opportunity.

He proposed leveraging Ji Heng's conflict with Sun Congrui by offering Tian Qi's life as a "big gift" to secure an alliance, reasoning that Sun Congrui was eager for revenge and would be pleased by the demise of the person who caused Sun Pan's public humiliation. Chen Wuyong concluded that Tian Qi's current banishment to the herb fields provided the perfect "best time" to strike. Tian Qi and Ding Zhi diligently worked on their facial cream.

Ding Zhi, after trying it, was amazed by its skin-smoothing effects. The next day, Tian Qi set up a stall to sell her facial cream in the town, actively promoting it as a "magical facial cream" that would make skin smooth like a baby's and attract suitors.

Meanwhile, back at Mansion Ji, Sheng Anhuai, sporting dark circles under his eyes, pleaded with Tian Qi for help, explaining that Ji Heng's insomnia, caused by her absence, was also keeping the entire staff from sleeping. Tian Qi then gave him a medicinal pillow she had sewn, filled with calming herbs and Ji Heng's favorite gardenia scent, instructing Sheng Anhuai to give it to Ji Heng but not to reveal her as its maker, fearing Ji Heng's continued anger.

Sheng Anhuai delivered the pillow to Ji Heng, deliberately exaggerating Tian Qi's plight, describing her as "poor," "wasted away through illness," and suffering from sunstroke due to the arduous labor. This account spurred Ji Heng to visit Tian Qi himself. However, upon arrival, he was surprised to find her energetically and joyfully selling her products, far from the miserable state Sheng Anhuai had described.

Later, as Tian Qi and Ding Zhi were dividing their earnings from the successful sales, Ding Zhi inquired if she harbored any resentment towards Ji Heng for her demotion. Tian Qi, after some thought, declared that she didn't resent Ji Heng, but rather herself for being "stupid" enough to consider someone as high and mighty as him her "true friend," given her own humble status.

Ji Heng, who had been discreetly observing them, overheard her words and, angered, left abruptly, instructing Sheng Anhuai never to report anything about Tian Qi to him again. Ding Zhi visited Mansion Ji, presenting Kang Ning'er and Kang De with the popular facial cream as a gesture of goodwill. He lavished Kang De with praise, calling him "handsome and well-behaved," "destined for greatness," and "knowledgeable," and then revealed he feared leaving Mansion Ji soon.

He humbly asked them to speak favorably of him to Madame Ji, hoping for a chance to return to the mansion. Kang De and Kang Ning'er agreed to try. However, when Ding Zhi further requested that they also put in a good word for his clever student, Tian Qi, Kang Ning'er's expression instantly darkened.

Concurrently, Ji Zheng sought out Tian Qi, advising her to leave the mansion permanently and offering to help her and Ding Zhi establish a new life elsewhere. Tian Qi, however, was resolute, explaining she had crucial matters at Mansion Ji, including seeking revenge for her father, and perhaps even for Ji Heng, which made her unwilling to leave.

Ji Zheng gently reminded her that Ji Heng's actions clearly indicated his stance and questioned if she had "things or people to care for" within the mansion. Tian Qi confessed to sending Ji Heng a medicinal pillow to alleviate his nightmares, asserting it was her duty as a doctor.

Ji Zheng warned her that Ji Heng's rise to power had hardened his heart, rendering him unable to make exceptions for anyone, and that the exposure of her female disguise would lead to "ghastly consequences." Tian Qi acknowledged her humble status and accepted that any punishment she might face would be deserved. Ji Zheng then declared that he would intervene to stop her if she pursued dangerous paths, not for the sake of the mansion, but for her own safety. Tian Qi, touched by his concern, reiterated her desire for them to remain in their respective positions to avoid implicating him further.

Episode 19 Recap

In the Ji Mansion's main hall, Kang Ning'er and Kang De paid their respects to Madame Ji. They presented a facial cream, sent by Ding Zhi, that Kang Ning'er had seemingly used with great results. While outwardly praising "Dr. Tian" (Shen Zhao'er), the siblings secretly harbored malicious intent.

Kang De privately assured Kang Ning'er that the substance they added to the cream was not poisonous, only designed to cause a severe rash, ensuring no fatal consequences but delivering a harsh lesson to the "annoying" Shen Zhao'er. Unsurprisingly, Madame Ji developed a full face of red rashes after using the cream, a direct result of the allergens Kang De and Kang Ning'er had secretly added to frame Shen Zhao'er.

Kang De then confronted Shen Zhao'er in the medicine field, accusing her of using poisonous ingredients in her cream to harm Madame Ji and Kang Ning'er. Shen Zhao'er vehemently denied the accusations, insisting her creams were made from natural ingredients and questioning how Kang De obtained her product. Ding Zhi attempted to defend Shen Zhao'er, but Kang De dismissed their pleas and ordered Shen Zhao'er to be beaten with fifty strokes.

Before the punishment could commence, Ji Zheng arrived, having been sent by Ji Heng. He stopped Kang De, chastising him for exceeding his authority, and declared that he was there to take Shen Zhao'er away. Ji Zheng assured Shen Zhao'er that he knew she was being framed and promised to protect her, regardless of Ji Heng's belief.

Later, Kang Ning'er, her face veiled to conceal the rashes, tearfully pleaded with Ji Heng, exaggerating her and Madame Ji's disfigurement and demanding severe punishment for "Dr. Tian." A subordinate confirmed that the cream indeed contained sensitizing substances. Ji Heng, however, maintained his impartiality, stating that even if the cream was tainted, it didn't definitively prove Shen Zhao'er's guilt and promised a thorough investigation. He sternly warned Kang Ning'er and Kang De against any unauthorized actions.

In a private conversation with Shen Zhao'er, Ji Heng prohibited her from producing or selling facial creams while under suspicion and informed her that her case would be referred to the Medical Academy to determine her future. Shen Zhao'er, heartbroken, reminded Ji Heng of his past promises and her belief that she held a unique place in his heart, hoping for his trust. Ji Heng's cold reply, "I only believe in evidence," shattered her hopes.

As she turned to leave, deeply hurt, Ji Heng stopped her, vowing to uncover the truth and clear her name. Later, Ji Zheng confronted Ji Heng, suggesting that Kang Ning'er and Kang De might be behind the framing due to jealousy. Ji Heng initially dismissed this, but after Ji Zheng questioned whether his actions were truly for Shen Zhao'er's benefit, he agreed to postpone her transfer.

Back in the medicine field, Shen Zhao'er privately expressed her anger at Ji Heng for not believing her, vowing not to forgive him easily. Her maid, Chun Hua, secretly visited her, revealing she had witnessed Kang De and Kang Ning'er suspiciously whispering over Ding Zhi's facial cream and suspected their involvement in the incident. Chun Hua promised to help Shen Zhao'er by gathering evidence.

Shortly after Chun Hua left, a group of black-clad men, led by Chen Wuyong, ambushed Shen Zhao'er, knocked her unconscious, and forcibly took her away. Chen Wuyong, a hidden Dong family remnant, had secretly allied with Lord Sun Congrui and offered Shen Zhao'er as a "generous gift" for his disposal. Unaware of the full extent of the plot, Chun Hua frantically sought Ji Zheng's help.

Ji Zheng quickly informed Ji Heng of Shen Zhao'er's abduction, noting that his deployed guards had been neutralized, and they suspected Sun Fan's involvement due to his known animosity towards Shen Zhao'er. Shen Zhao'er found herself in a dark, filthy private prison at the Sun Mansion, brutally tortured by Sun Fan. Despite her injuries, she repeatedly called out for Ji Heng to save her.

Sun Fan cruelly taunted her, claiming Ji Heng himself had handed her over to curry favor with his father, giving him free rein over her life. Shen Zhao'er defiantly refused to believe him, her unwavering trust in Ji Heng only further enraging Sun Fan, who whipped her with renewed savagery. Determined to prolong her agony, Sun Fan threw her back into the cell, where she clutched a cherished Gold Zongzi, a gift from Ji Heng.

She found solace in memories of his kindness, regretting that she might die before avenging her father and seeing Ji Heng one last time. She eventually fell asleep, holding the trinket. Later, Sun Fan returned, pouring a bucket of salty water over her wounds, reveling in her agonizing screams. When the Gold Zongzi fell, she desperately tried to retrieve it, but Sun Fan stomped on her wrist.

Re-tied to a stake, she faced a red-hot branding iron, repeatedly crying out for Ji Heng. Just as the iron was about to brand her, Ji Heng and his troops burst into the prison. Ji Heng quickly subdued Sun Fan. Witnessing Shen Zhao'er's severely injured body, he was overcome with fury. He offered Shen Zhao'er the whip to take her revenge, but seeing her weakened state, he took the whip himself and mercilessly flogged Sun Fan.

Sun Fan tried to threaten Ji Heng with his father's influence, but Ji Heng, drawing his sword and threatening immediate execution, terrified Sun Fan into fainting. As Shen Zhao'er drifted into unconsciousness, she repeatedly called out for her Gold Zongzi. Ji Heng retrieved the treasured item and promised to keep it safe for her, deeply moved by her devotion to his gift.

While escorting Sun Fan through the Sun Mansion's front courtyard, Lord Sun Congrui confronted Ji Heng, attempting to threaten him with his official position and vowing to report him to the Emperor. Ji Heng calmly revealed that he had evidence of Sun Fan's crimes, including the slaughter of disaster victims and the embezzlement of relief funds, committed in collusion with Lord Sun. Ji Heng further stated that he had already rescued the victims, leaving Lord Sun without a defense.

Ji Heng then ordered the arrest of Lord Sun, successfully bringing down both father and son. This swift action was made possible by Ji Zheng, who had earlier informed Ji Heng of Shen Zhao'er's abduction, allowing them to connect the incident to Sun Fan and leverage Ji Zheng's prior investigation into the Sun family's corruption. Back at the Ji Mansion, a pale and unconscious Shen Zhao'er was brought to her former residence, her lips constantly murmuring Ji Heng's name.

Ji Heng sat by her bedside, no longer concealing the worry and fear in his eyes. Ji Zheng then brought Dr. Ye, a female doctor who had previously treated Shen Zhao'er, ensuring her secret identity remained safe. As they left the room, Ji Heng instructed Ji Zheng not to tell Shen Zhao'er of his visit or concern, and further instructed him to arrange for her to leave the Ji Mansion once she recovered.

Ji Zheng, having heard Shen Zhao'er's delirious calls for his brother, struggled with the painful truth that the woman he loved harbored feelings for Ji Heng. When Shen Zhao'er awoke, she asked if Ji Heng had saved her. Ji Zheng, following his brother's instructions, lied and claimed he was the one who brought her back, also reassuring her that her secret as a woman was safe.

Ji Zheng then conveyed Ji Heng's decision, suggesting that once she recovered, she should leave the Ji Mansion and come to reside in his own mansion. Shen Zhao'er was shocked by Ji Heng's agreement to her departure. Clutching the Gold Zongzi, she adamantly refused to leave, stating that she could not depart until she had avenged her father.

Ji Zheng offered to bring her enemy before her, but Shen Zhao'er remained resolute, leading Ji Zheng to question if her refusal was solely for revenge. He ultimately decided not to pressure her, asking her to rest and promising to visit her later.

Episode 20 Recap

The father and son, Sun Congrui, found themselves confined in a prison cart, scorned by all, a just retribution for their past actions against Shen Qingyun, just as Shen Qingyun had been framed back then. Ji Heng deliberately brought Ji Zheng and Tian Qi to witness their fate, offering Tian Qi some comfort as half of her father's revenge had been served.

Tian Qi silently vowed to her deceased parents to uncover why Chen Wuyong had killed them and clear her father's name, praying for their blessing. Meanwhile, Kang Ning'er felt increasingly uneasy in her courtyard. Her brother, Kang De, reassured her, dismissing her worries about Ji Heng discovering their previous attempt to frame Tian Qi with the facial cream. Kang De noted that Sun Congrui's act of torturing Tian Qi had inadvertently overshadowed the facial cream incident.

He then unveiled a new plot, giving Kang Ning'er a potent medicine. He explained that a man who takes this medicine would perceive the person before him as his beloved one. Kang Ning'er hesitated, fearing it would be disgraceful, but Kang De dismissed her concerns, stating that becoming the Jiedushi's wife was paramount, even if it meant being infamous. While they spoke, Chun Hua, who was listening outside, accidentally made a noise and was discovered by the siblings.

Upon learning of Chun Hua's harsh punishment—being beaten and confined to the firewood room for eavesdropping—Tian Qi rushed there to check on her. As soon as Tian Qi stepped inside, the door was immediately locked from the outside, a trap set by Kang De. Trapped with a severely injured Chun Hua, whose body was covered in whip marks, Tian Qi embraced her, offering comfort. Just then, Kang De arrived with Ji Heng.

The Kang siblings had already falsely accused them of illicit affection. If Chun Hua were to reveal Kang De's earlier attempt to frame Tian Qi, it would not only be hard to believe but might also cause further trouble. Kang De then urged Ji Heng to punish them severely, perhaps even by death under paddles for "over the wall peeping." Ji Heng, though angry, interrupted Kang De and surprisingly declared a marriage for Tian Qi and Chun Hua.

Tian Qi initially refused, but realizing Chun Hua's life was at stake, she had no choice but to accept, agreeing to marry in three days. Ji Heng further ordered them to leave the mansion immediately after their wedding and serve Marquis Marvel, a move Tian Qi tearfully protested, feeling it was a great mercy she could not accept. Elsewhere, Ji Zheng was planning to plant gardenias, Tian Qi's favorite flower, in his newly built mansion.

He was interrupted by his subordinate, Xu Jin, who informed him of Ji Heng's order for Tian Qi and Chun Hua to marry. Ji Zheng was keenly aware of Tian Qi's unique significance to Ji Heng. He understood that as a Jiedushi, Ji Heng constantly forced himself to be impartial and emotionless. However, the more special Tian Qi became to Ji Heng, the more Ji Heng would try to suppress his feelings.

Yet, Ji Zheng found it unfair that Ji Heng would disregard Tian Qi's feelings and dispose of her so casually. The brothers once again parted on bad terms, arguing over Tian Qi. Their failed alliance with Sun Congrui had only hastened the Sun family's downfall. Ji Heng and Ji Zheng, once fraternal and harmonious, now repeatedly drew swords against each other over Tian Qi.

Tian Qi's unusual influence also drew the attention of Chen Wuyong and the Dong family heir, who grew increasingly curious about her background. Late that night, Tian Qi, with Sheng Anhuai's implicit understanding, managed to enter Ji Heng's bedroom. She held onto a final hope, pleading with Ji Heng to let her remain in the Ji mansion. Ji Heng, seeing her tearful face, clenched his fists, his veins bulging, revealing his reluctance.

However, the more he felt attached, the more he forced himself to be cruel, speaking words of extreme coldness. Tian Qi left in tears, but her momentary pause before closing the door betrayed her lingering hope. Ji Heng, resisting the impulse to stop her, watched as Tian Qi, heartbroken, closed the door, effectively shutting off his own emotions. A restless Ji Heng went to the courtyard, where Kang Ning'er was already waiting with wine.

Ji Heng, feeling depressed, didn't think much of her offer to drink and ease his worries. After just one cup, he began to feel the effects of the drug but didn't realize it. He continued to drink glass after glass until a wave of dizziness and blurred vision overcame him. Kang Ning'er helped Ji Heng back to his room.

Sitting on the bed, Ji Heng mistook Kang Ning'er for Tian Qi, who he imagined was wearing a woman's dress, and passionately expressed his regret for his cruel treatment of her. Under the drug's influence, his previous resolve melted away, and he pulled Kang Ning'er into an embrace. When he realized it was Kang Ning'er in his arms, he instantly understood he had been drugged. He forcefully pushed Kang Ning'er away and stumbled towards Tian Qi's quarters.

Tian Qi, with her hair loose, was lost in sadness when Ji Heng suddenly burst into her room. Ji Heng, intending for Tian Qi to help him detoxify, stumbled upon the truth that she was a woman. However, before he could question her, he succumbed to the drug's effects and fainted. Sheng Anhuai, unable to find Ji Heng anywhere, led servants in a thorough search of the mansion.

They eventually arrived at Tian Qi's residence, where they found Tian Qi and Ji Zheng talking and drinking. Ji Zheng quickly explained that Ji Heng was celebrating Tian Qi's upcoming wedding and had simply gotten drunk. After Sheng Anhuai took Ji Heng away, Tian Qi thanked Ji Zheng again for his timely arrival, which helped them deceive Sheng Anhuai. Otherwise, if a drugged Ji Heng had been discovered in her room, it would have caused endless trouble.

Ji Zheng, feigning drunkenness, also hoped his brother would forget the night's events. Ji Heng dreamt of a picturesque gardenia forest, where he and Tian Qi, dressed in wedding attire, stood together. He gently lifted her veil, revealing Tian Qi's joyful face. The beautiful dream abruptly ended, and Ji Heng woke up, calling Tian Qi's name. Recalling the last moments before he fainted, he refused to believe it was just a dream.

He urgently summoned Sheng Anhuai and demanded Tian Qi be brought to him. At that moment, Tian Qi and Chun Hua were preparing for their wedding. Tian Qi had already explained to Chun Hua that her heart belonged to someone else, and seeing Chun Hua's distress, she was about to reveal her true identity as a woman. Before she could speak, Sheng Anhuai arrived, interrupting them with Ji Heng's order to immediately cancel the wedding. Tian Qi was then instructed to go with Sheng Anhuai to see Ji Heng.

Episode 21 Recap

Ji Heng woke up and told Sheng Anhuai to keep the couch in his room, which he had previously ordered to be moved out. He then questioned Tian Qi about the previous night's events, stating that he remembered going to Tian Qi's residence after having some wine.

Tian Qi, feeling flustered and unsure if Ji Heng truly recalled anything, claimed that Sheng Anhuai and Ji Zheng had brought him back, and that Ji Heng had been very happy, drinking a lot with Ji Zheng. Ji Heng seemed to accept this explanation, but later instructed Sheng Anhuai to analyze the wine pot from which Kang Ning'er had served him.

Sheng Anhuai soon confirmed that the pot contained potent philtres, commonly used in brothels, which would make the user see only the one they loved. Outraged by this discovery, Ji Heng summoned Kang Ning'er and Kang De to the chamber, where Madam Ji was also present. Ji Heng revealed that Kang Ning'er had drugged his wine, intending for them to be caught in a compromising situation.

Kang Ning'er confessed to her actions, trying to justify them by saying Ji Heng was too obsessed with Dr. Tian. Spring Blossom, emboldened by a look from Tian Qi, then revealed the full truth: Kang De and Kang Ning'er had put a substance in the facial cream to frame Tian Qi, and Kang De had encouraged his sister to use philtres on Ji Heng to force a marriage.

She further explained that after she overheard their plot, they tried to frame her and Tian Qi for adultery within the mansion. Kang De initially denied everything, but Kang Ning'er, feeling guilty, admitted to her part. Madam Ji, disgusted by Kang Ning'er's behavior, washed her hands of the matter. Ji Heng declared that while he could overlook being drugged, he would not tolerate their attempt to frame Tian Qi.

He immediately ordered both Kang De and Kang Ning'er to be expelled from the mansion and forbidden from ever returning. Later that night, Tian Qi was back to sleeping on the couch in Ji Heng’s room. Ji Heng waited until Tian Qi was asleep, then quietly approached him, intending to lift his clothes and check. He thought to himself that if Tian Qi was indeed a woman, he would take responsibility for her.

As he reached out to remove Tian Qi’s clothes, Tian Qi suddenly mumbled in her sleep, turned over, and slapped Ji Heng across the face. Ji Heng, though hurt and bewildered, quietly returned to his own bed, rubbing his cheek, and turned away to sleep in a huff. Tian Qi, who had been feigning sleep, secretly opened one eye and relaxed only after seeing Ji Heng turn his back.

She felt fortunate that Ji Zheng had warned her to be prepared. However, a romantic thought also crossed her mind: if she had allowed Ji Heng to proceed, would their relationship have taken a different turn? Meanwhile, Dong Zichun, a remnant of the Dong family, was informed that Tian Qi had visited Wanhong Club and became curious about Tian Qi’s connection to the establishment.

At Wanhong Club, Tian Qi was discussing Ji Heng's suspicions about her true gender with Auntie Hong when Zheng Shaofeng, appearing completely drunk, burst into the room and collapsed onto the bed. Tian Qi promptly left, and as soon as she was gone, Zheng Shaofeng opened his eyes, revealing no signs of intoxication. During her visit to Wanhong Club, Auntie Hong provided Tian Qi with a vest made of fish gelatin.

Auntie Hong explained that when worn, it would make her chest feel like a man's to the touch, but warned that it wouldn't hide her true gender if she removed her top. She suggested Tian Qi find an opportunity to let Ji Heng touch her chest. Tian Qi was shocked but understood the necessity. Later that evening, as Tian Qi followed Ji Heng back to his room, a servant "accidentally" splashed dirty water on her.

This was, in fact, orchestrated by Ji Heng, who then followed Tian Qi to her room, intending to secretly observe her changing clothes. From his hiding spot, Ji Heng indeed saw a male body and left in confusion. Unbeknownst to him, Tian Qi had anticipated his move and paid a male attendant to pose as her. However, Tian Qi forgot about the scar on her chest from when she blocked an arrow for Ji Heng.

This detail caused Ji Heng to return. Ji Heng arrived back at Tian Qi’s room and saw her furtively leaving with a basin of water. He followed her to the lakeside, where Tian Qi, feeling safe, took off her outer clothes, revealing her chest-binding cloth. Ji Heng watched from behind a tree, the leaves partially obscuring his view, which only enhanced Tian Qi's ethereal beauty.

Confirming that Tian Qi was indeed a woman brought Ji Heng a surge of unexpected happiness. Back in his room, Ji Heng lay awake, his mind replaying all his past interactions with Tian Qi. Unable to sleep, he got up to ponder his true feelings for her. He was surprised that he wasn't angry about Tian Qi's deception of cross-dressing. He then imagined if Sheng Anhuai had deceived him in the same way, and the thought almost made him sick.

After much contemplation, he finally realized that Tian Qi held a unique place in his heart, not just because she was a woman, but because she was "Tian Qi". He concluded that a woman's heart was more complicated than war. The next morning, Ji Heng was distracted from his work, his mind preoccupied with understanding women's thoughts. He then stealthily approached Tian Qi's residence, only to find her chatting and laughing with Ji Zheng.

Hiding outside the window, Ji Heng overheard Tian Qi express a preference for pink rain and complain about him. He also heard her describe her ideal man, prompting him to unconsciously compare himself to her description. This uncharacteristic behavior revealed a charming, adorable side to the usually stern Ji Heng. As Ji Heng peered around the corner, he saw Ji Zheng adjusting Tian Qi's hat, leaning in very close.

Ji Heng, overcome with jealousy, immediately intervened, scolding them for being too close and violating the norms of "body contact between men and women is improper." He quickly became embarrassed and defensively claimed he was looking for Ji Zheng. The two brothers retreated to a pavilion where Ji Heng, reverting to his usual demeanor, questioned Ji Zheng about his perception of Tian Qi.

When Ji Zheng openly expressed his admiration for Tian Qi, calling her "cute and special" and stating that her personality suited him well, Ji Heng grew visibly tense. He firmly forbade Ji Zheng from having any further thoughts about Tian Qi, asserting that Tian Qi must remain in Mansion Ji and Ji Zheng should stop pursuing her.

Episode 22 Recap

Ji Zheng visited Ji Heng and inquired about Tian Qi, noting Ji Heng's apparent dissatisfaction with him. He subtly suggested taking Tian Qi off Ji Heng's hands, explaining that Tian Qi's personality suited him better. Ji Heng immediately rejected the idea, asserting that Tian Qi would remain in Mansion Ji.

Ji Zheng pressed further, asking why Ji Heng was so determined to keep Tian Qi if he truly felt no satisfaction, and what Ji Heng's true feelings for Tian Qi were. Ji Heng finally admitted that Tian Qi had saved his life, and he had promised to protect him, viewing it as a bond of brotherhood. Ji Zheng acknowledged this but then asked Ji Heng to grant Tian Qi freedom for a better life should he ever wish to leave.

Ji Heng agreed to this condition but firmly stated that if Tian Qi chose to stay, no one would be able to take him away. Ji Zheng made Ji Heng promise to remember his words. Before leaving, Ji Zheng also informed Ji Heng about rumors of a group recruiting followers, potentially linked to Dong Mountain Village. He requested permission to investigate these clues, which Ji Heng granted, also asking Ji Zheng to return before any major mansion affairs were handled.

Later, Ji Heng, recalling Sheng Anhuai's past regrets about unconfessed love and his advice to "pluck flowers as they bloom," decided to make a grand romantic gesture. He declared a holiday for all servants in the Mansion, ensuring he and Tian Qi would be alone. As Tian Qi stood outside her bamboo house, pink petals suddenly rained down, and Ji Heng descended amidst them, appearing before her.

Ji Heng then revealed to Tian Qi that he knew she was a woman. Tian Qi, initially flustered, admitted her fear that revealing her true identity would mean she could no longer remain by his side. Ji Heng reassured her, promising his unconditional belief and protection. He then presented her with a beautiful pink and white dress he had chosen, which she initially hesitated to wear. After much playful resistance, she tried it on, transforming her appearance.

Ji Heng expressed his relief, joking that he no longer had to feel like he was falling for a man. Ji Heng then took Tian Qi to a secluded pavilion, where he confessed his deep affection, declaring he was no longer the imposing General J but simply Ji Heng, devoted to her and ready to shield her from all storms.

Tian Qi was deeply touched by his trust, and she felt her life had become sweeter since meeting him, comparing him to both a radiant sun and a hopeful meteor. Ji Heng revealed he had arranged a special "meteor shower" for her that evening. Tian Qi reminisced about her parents taking her to see stars and making wishes, lamenting how quickly beautiful moments pass.

Ji Heng promised her a prolonged celestial display, and as he spoke, the sky erupted in a spectacular fireworks display. Moved by his thoughtfulness, Tian Qi made a silent wish to avenge her parents and to remain with Ji Heng forever. Ji Heng, seeing her joy, declared his own wish had already come true. Their passionate embrace and kiss were accidentally witnessed by Ru Yi.

Meanwhile, in a dark prison cell, Chen Wuyong interrogated Ji'er, who had been subjected to torture. Ji'er initially feigned ignorance about Tian Qi, claiming she only sold the beads Chen Wuyong had given her. Under threat of death, she eventually divulged that Tian Qi, whom she knew as Zhao'er, was a girl Auntie Hong had brought, and that Auntie Hong had explicitly told her to keep Zhao'er’s real name and medical skills a secret.

Hearing this, Chen Wuyong immediately deduced that "Zhao'er" with medical skills must be Shen Qingyun's daughter, Shen Zhao'er. Recognizing Ji'er as a liability, he swiftly murdered her to ensure her silence. The next day, Madame Ji returned from her prayers to find Ru Yi distracted. Ru Yi innocently recounted how "uncle Heng" and Tian Qi had set off beautiful fireworks the previous night and that Tian Qi was wearing a lovely dress "like a lady."

Most shocking of all, Ru Yi mentioned seeing "uncle kiss Tian Qi." Enraged, Madame Ji summoned Sheng Anhuai. Meanwhile, rumors began to spread throughout the Mansion about General J and Tian Qi's "unnatural" relationship, as everyone still believed Tian Qi to be a man. Sheng Anhuai fiercely reprimanded the gossiping servants, threatening severe punishment, and vehemently denied the possibility of General J having a "broken sleeve."

Simultaneously, Tian Qi's Shifu, having overheard similar rumors about a doctor "seducing" General J, approached Tian Qi in a panic, mistakenly believing the accusations were aimed at his own alleged improprieties with various female servants. He begged Tian Qi to speak to Ji Heng on his behalf. Tian Qi promised to help if his story was true, while also realizing that the rumors likely stemmed from her own situation. Ji Heng found Tian Qi distressed by the gossip.

He reassured her, stating that he would soon formally reveal her true identity within the Mansion to dispel all rumors. He promised to bear any consequences as long as she stayed by his side. Later, Sheng Anhuai accidentally walked in on Ji Heng and Tian Qi, prompting Ji Heng to scold him about knocking first.

After Tian Qi briefly left, Sheng Anhuai, still believing Tian Qi was a man, tearfully lamented Ji Heng's supposed "sinful path" and his abandonment of the Ji family's ancestral honor. Ji Heng then revealed that Tian Qi was, in fact, a woman. Sheng Anhuai was stunned, questioning how a woman could become a doctor from the Imperial Medical Academy. Ji Heng explained she must have used a male identity to gain entry, acknowledging the serious implication of lese-majeste.

Sheng Anhuai, now worried about Tian Qi's true intentions and loyalty, suggested an investigation. Ji Heng dismissed his concerns, citing Tian Qi's many past opportunities to harm him and his unwavering trust in her. Sheng Anhuai then mentioned that Ji Zheng also knew Tian Qi's secret and had been protecting her, implying a rivalry between the brothers.

Ji Heng quickly assured him that no matter the outcome of his relationship with Tian Qi, it would never lead to conflict between him and Ji Zheng. Just then, a maid announced that Madame Ji wanted to see Sheng Anhuai. Before Sheng Anhuai left, Ji Heng confided in him that he had revealed Tian Qi's true gender and that Sheng Anhuai should be her point of contact if Ji Heng were ever absent.

Tian Qi, however, playfully teased Ji Heng for worrying about an "old man's feelings" more than her anger over his deception, to which Ji Heng affectionately scoffed. Later, in Tian Qi's room, Ji Heng playfully attempted to draw her eyebrows, but Tian Qi teased him for his lack of skill. She then, in turn, insisted on applying a special facial cream, an "ancestral secret recipe," to Ji Heng's face. Despite his initial reluctance, Ji Heng allowed her, fulfilling her "punishment."

Sheng Anhuai went to Madame Ji, who questioned him about the true nature of Ji Heng and Tian Qi's relationship. Sheng Anhuai, now privy to the truth, initially attempted to deflect, claiming their relationship was purely professional, based on Ji Heng's trust in Tian Qi for his insomnia treatment. However, Madame Ji, citing Ru Yi's account of Tian Qi in a woman's dress and Ji Heng's private fireworks display, demanded the truth.

Realizing he could no longer conceal it, Sheng Anhuai was about to reveal Tian Qi’s secret when Madame Ji angrily stormed off to confront Ji Heng herself. Madame Ji burst into Tian Qi's room to find Ji Heng and Tian Qi in an intimate moment, with Ji Heng's face covered in the facial cream Tian Qi had just applied, a scene that confirmed her worst fears.

She immediately ordered Tian Qi to be dragged out and beaten to death for "defiling" the Ji Mansion. Ji Heng vehemently intervened, and just then, Ji Zheng arrived. Ji Zheng quickly calmed his mother and dismissed all the servants, preventing further scandal. Madame Ji, distraught, accused Ji Heng of shameful behavior with a man and then turned her fury on Ji Zheng, realizing he too seemed to be involved with Tian Qi.

She was utterly distraught that both her sons had seemingly been "bewitched" and were defying her. Threatening Tian Qi's life, Madame Ji declared that only her death would allow Tian Qi to live. In a moment of desperation, Ji Heng blurted out the truth: "Tian Qi is a woman!" Madame Ji was shocked, confirming with Tian Qi, who admitted her female identity. Learning that both her sons had known, Madame Ji was furious, scolding them for their foolishness.

She pointed out Tian Qi's official status as a male Imperial Medical Academy doctor, meaning her true identity implied a severe crime of deceiving the Emperor. Madame Ji accused Tian Qi of being a deceitful "female liar" who harbored ill intentions and had infiltrated their household. Ji Heng firmly declared that he chose to keep Tian Qi after learning her truth and would take full responsibility. He asserted that if the Emperor were to punish Tian Qi, he should be punished first.

Episode 23 Recap

Madame Ji remained deeply upset, and Chen Wuyong subtly probed her, confirming that she was still unaware of Tian Qi's true identity as Shen Zhao'er. This revelation emboldened Chen Wuyong to further sow discord, securing Madame Ji's permission to handle the matter herself. When confronted by Madame Ji, both Ji Heng and Ji Zheng fiercely defended Tian Qi.

Madame Ji, furious that a registered doctor from the General Medical Academy had lied to the emperor and entered their mansion with "evil intention," chastised her sons. She questioned how General J and Marquis Marvel could protect such a deceiver. Ji Heng declared that he would take full responsibility for Tian Qi, stating that if the Emperor wished to punish her, he should punish him first.

Ji Zheng echoed this sentiment, revealing he knew Tian Qi was a woman even earlier than his brother and would ask the Emperor to punish them both together. Madame Ji, exasperated, offered them two choices: either report Tian Qi to the Emperor or force her to leave Mansion Ji immediately. Ji Heng refused, asserting he would not send her away or hand her over to the Emperor without preparation.

Madame Ji, in turn, vowed to deal with Tian Qi herself, warning Ji Heng to "stay with her forever" if he wanted to protect her. Chen Wuyong, while feigning concern, reinforced Madame Ji's suspicions, labeling Tian Qi as manipulative and suggesting she was merely using the Ji family's power for her own ends. He subtly reminded Madame Ji of past misfortunes that nearly ruined their family due to similar situations.

Madame Ji, still unaware of Tian Qi's true identity, agreed to let Chen Wuyong take care of it, wanting nothing to do with any future questions from her sons. Ji Heng, concerned for Tian Qi's safety, instructed Sheng Anhuai to station guards outside her room. He also attempted to mend relations with his mother, but she refused to see him. Ji Zheng reassured Tian Qi that their mother loved Ji Heng and wouldn't be too hard on him.

He then directly asked Tian Qi if she and Ji Heng had confessed their love, to which she admitted they had. Ji Zheng offered his sincere blessings, acknowledging Ji Heng as the only man he couldn't compete with. He told Tian Qi to keep the jade pendant he had given her, saying it now symbolized his "best wishes and consent" and a promise that she could always seek his help with it if she ever faced trouble.

Later, Ji Zheng joined Ji Heng in front of their mother's room, reiterating his support and willingness to seek forgiveness together, just as they did when they were children. Ji Heng then asked if Ji Zheng's feelings for Tian Qi ran deeper than friendship, which Ji Zheng confirmed, admitting his profound affection. He gracefully conceded to Ji Heng, stating that only a man like his brother was worthy of her.

However, he made Ji Heng promise to cherish Tian Qi forever and stand by her, warning that if she were ever unhappy, he would "take her away" from Ji Heng, even if it meant becoming enemies. Ji Heng promised that day would never come. Ji Zheng also informed Ji Heng that Dong Zichun, the young master of Dong Mountain Village, might be nearby.

Meanwhile, Sheng Anhuai instructed the guards to protect Tian Qi, emphasizing that their orders came directly from General J, not Madame Ji. The guards, still processing the shock of Tian Qi being a woman, comically discussed how they had unknowingly seen "him" in various states of undress or tried to remove "his" pants to apply medicine, fearing General J's wrath. Tian Qi, worried that her exposed identity might jeopardize her revenge plans, confessed her fears to Ji Heng.

He reassured her, telling her to stay in her room and allow him to handle everything. He suggested a plan to fake Tian Qi's death as a physician, allowing her to re-emerge as a woman and marry him, believing the Emperor would then be lenient due to his contributions to the country. Tian Qi agreed, but insisted that finding Chen Wuyong and avenging her parents was her immediate priority. Ji Heng promised his full support.

Suddenly, Chen Wuyong, a skilled martial artist, easily overpowered the guards protecting Tian Qi's room and entered. Unarmed and helpless, Tian Qi was choked by him, but in that moment, she vividly recalled a childhood memory of her parents urging her to "Live on," and noticed a distinctive bite mark on her attacker's wrist. Remembering her past encounter with Chen Wuyong, Tian Qi quickly threw poisonous powder on his face, creating a burning sensation that momentarily disoriented him.

As he recovered and lunged at her with a dagger, Ji Zheng arrived just in time, engaging Chen Wuyong in a fierce fight. Ji Zheng was quickly outmatched, but the commotion drew Ji Heng to the scene. After a brief skirmish with both brothers, Chen Wuyong used his exceptional light-footed martial arts to escape.

Although Ji Heng and Ji Zheng couldn't identify the masked assailant, Tian Qi was certain it was Chen Wuyong because of the bite mark on his wrist, which she herself had inflicted when she was young. She then confessed to them that Chen Wuyong was responsible for her parents' murder and that she had joined the Ji mansion to uncover the truth. She believed he was now trying to silence her because he had discovered her identity.

She also informed them about the potent poisonous powder she used on his face, which would cause severe burning pain, leading him to seek an antidote. Ji Heng immediately dispatched Sheng Anhuai to covertly monitor pharmacies for anyone with facial burns, instructing his men to follow discreetly and report back.

Tian Qi requested to personally interrogate Chen Wuyong once he was captured, a request Ji Heng agreed to, in line with his earlier promise, while urging her to rest and stating he would handle the matter. Ji Heng then shared his concern with Ji Zheng that Chen Wuyong's attack might have been ordered by their mother. Nursing his burned face, Chen Wuyong reported to Dong Zichun.

He admitted his failure to kill Tian Qi and that his attempt had only alerted the Ji brothers. Despite being Dong Zichun's nominal master, Chen Wuyong knelt, expecting punishment. However, Dong Zichun considered the failed assassination a fortunate turn of events, a "good thing" that would help "burn down the whole Ji family," as Tian Qi had already caused chaos within it. He proposed a new scheme, asking if Chen Wuyong was "willing to sacrifice yourself to ignite the fuel."

A few days later, Ji Zheng, still distraught over Tian Qi and Ji Heng's relationship, drowned his sorrows with Zheng Shaofeng at a tavern. He confided in Zheng Shaofeng about his long-standing love for Tian Qi and his heartbreak over her affection for his brother. Zheng Shaofeng, pretending to be sympathetic, insinuated that Tian Qi was merely after Ji Heng's power, suggesting the outcome would be different if their positions were reversed.

Ji Zheng vehemently defended Tian Qi, rejecting the idea that she was materialistic, and grew irritated at Zheng Shaofeng's disrespectful remarks about Ji Heng. Seeing Ji Zheng's unwavering loyalty, Zheng Shaofeng dropped the topic. Soon after, a child delivered a mysterious letter to Ji Zheng, prompting Zheng Shaofeng to quickly excuse himself. Reading the letter, Ji Zheng's face contorted from shock to rigid horror, letting the paper slip from his grasp.

Overwhelmed by the letter's contents, Ji Zheng confronted Madame Ji in the Buddhist hall, demanding to know if she had ordered his birth mother to commit suicide years ago. Madame Ji, filled with guilt, evaded a direct answer, claiming that "not all things are as simple as black and white" and that any explanation would not satisfy or convince him.

Ji Zheng, enraged, accused her of being "so cruel" for making his birth mother die to protect him, and expressed his disgust at having "called a bad woman mother" for so many years, calling himself "foolish" and "ridiculous." Madame Ji, accepting his anger, offered her life in atonement, but pleaded with him not to harm Ji Heng, who was innocent and had always treated Ji Zheng like a true brother.

Ji Zheng, still seething, brandished a dagger, challenging her to accept a life for a life. As he stood with the dagger pointed at her, memories of Madame Ji's loving care, like the cape she had painstakingly sewn for him, flooded his mind. He dropped the dagger, unable to strike.

Madame Ji, who had raised him as her own son, watched him walk away, his words echoing that she no longer needed to be "so hypocritical" now that he knew the truth. Heartbroken, she tried to convince him that for her, he was always "a son of mine. You are no different from Heng." Not long after, Ji Heng's agents located Chen Wuyong's hiding place at a downtown pharmacy.

Ji Heng personally went to apprehend him, intending to hand him over to Shen Zhao'er for questioning. However, during their confrontation, Chen Wuyong delivered a shocking revelation: Tian Qi, the woman Ji Heng loved, was in fact Shen Zhao'er. He further confessed that he had killed Shen Qingyun's entire family, including Shen Zhao'er's parents, under the direct orders of Madame Ji, and his recent attempts on Shen Zhao'er's life were merely acts to protect his mistress. Ji Heng was left stunned by this profound betrayal.

Episode 24 Recap

Upon learning Tian Qi's true identity as Shen Zhao'er, Madame Ji became desperate to eliminate her, fearing she had entered the mansion disguised as a man to investigate her father's case. Ji Heng, observing his mother's reaction, realized that Chen Wuyong's claims were true, confirming his mother was indeed involved in the killing of Mr. Shen and his family. His mother admitted that she had them exiled and subsequently killed to prevent her secrets from being revealed.

Ji Heng questioned why she would harm a mere doctor who was his friend. Madame Ji dismissed it as past events, confessing to her mistakes but asserting they were driven by her desire to be a good mother and protect Ji Heng, instructing him not to interfere. Ji Heng pointed out the two innocent lives lost and Zhao'er's harrowing childhood, asking how he could ignore such suffering.

Madame Ji expressed her anguish, feeling that both Ji Zheng and now Ji Heng resented her. Ji Heng then confronted her about her actions towards Ji Zheng and the secrets she kept. Madame Ji recounted her past struggles, including forcing Ji Zheng's birth mother to her death, stating all her terrible actions were out of necessity and for Ji Heng's sake, even if it meant eternal damnation for herself.

Overwhelmed, Ji Heng declared that he would bear the burden of all the wrongdoings, asking only that his mother not harm Tian Qi, promising to handle everything else. Distraught, Ji Heng dreamt that Shen Zhao'er, having discovered his true identity, confronted him. In the dream, she expressed relief that he was the one she had been searching for but then demanded he help her avenge her family and capture Chen Wuyong.

Ji Heng, conflicted, apologized, saying he could help with anyone else, but that particular person he truly could not touch. Overcome with hatred, Shen Zhao'er then stabbed him, repeating "I hate you." Ji Heng awoke in a cold sweat from the nightmare, as noted by Sheng Anhuai. The next morning, Ji Heng urgently visited Shen Zhao'er, embracing her tightly, telling her he missed her.

He silently vowed that even if the tragic outcome of his dream were to become reality, he would rather be killed by her hand than ever release her. During their conversation, while showing her a drawing, Ji Heng mused about a simpler life where he was just a "little brother" growing up next door.

Though Tian Qi mentioned she indeed had such a childhood "little brother," Ji Heng deliberately refrained from revealing his identity as that boy, as he knew acknowledging his true past and connection to her would complicate his efforts to protect his mother. He could only bury everything in his heart, prioritizing her safety and his mother's secret, even as he expressed his lifelong dedication to guarding Tian Qi.

Ji Heng had secretly planned a wedding for Shen Zhao'er, but now he canceled it. He secretly confined Chen Wuyong in the mansion's prison, instructing Sheng Anhuai to ensure no one, especially Ji Zheng and Tian Qi, knew of Chen Wuyong's whereabouts. Sheng Anhuai questioned why Ji Heng would keep this from Tian Qi, knowing her anxiety, but Ji Heng insisted on his plan.

Sheng Anhuai later falsely informed Shen Zhao'er that the misunderstanding with Madame Ji was resolved, the guards withdrawn, and that Ji Heng had personally left the city to pursue Chen Wuyong. Shen Zhao'er, convinced Chen Wuyong would need her antidote, was eager to find Ji Heng or pursue Chen Wuyong herself, but Sheng Anhuai claimed ignorance and departed.

Reporting back to Ji Heng, Sheng Anhuai confirmed the guards were removed from Tian Qi's door and she was told Ji Heng was out of the mansion. When asked about the wedding, Ji Heng simply dismissed the matter. Meanwhile, Ji Zheng was also struggling. Shaofeng found him drinking alone, suggesting he forget Tian Qi since she had chosen Ji Heng and reminding him of Madame Ji's potential worry.

Ji Zheng angrily dismissed any concern for Madame Ji, stating that everything was a pretense and that he couldn't even trust his brother, fearing he was lying too. He expressed his disillusionment, realizing that his childhood home was not what he had believed and that no one truly cared for him. Shaofeng subtly encouraged him to stop yielding and instead fight back to achieve his desires. Ji Zheng later reflected on Shaofeng's words, his resolve hardening to change his circumstances.

After Ji Zheng indicated his desire to help and trust, Shen Zhao'er revealed her true identity as Shen Zhao'er, daughter of Shen Qingyun, the former doctor of Mansion Ji. Shocked by this revelation, Ji Zheng immediately confronted Ji Heng, who was secluded within the mansion. Ji Heng admitted to his deception, citing his own complex reasons, and requested Ji Zheng to keep his presence a secret from Tian Qi.

Ji Zheng, revealing Shen Zhao'er's true name, questioned Ji Heng's lack of surprise, realizing Ji Heng had known all along. Ji Heng insisted that "Tian Qi is Tian Qi," and her past identity was irrelevant, as she was the one he was dedicated to protecting. Ji Zheng then accused Ji Heng of deceiving Shen Zhao'er, pointing out that he had promised to find Chen Wuyong but had instead withdrawn all city guards and sent no one to help her.

Ji Heng, angered, ordered Ji Zheng to stop questioning him. Ji Zheng retorted, reminding Ji Heng that Madame Ji had murdered his birth mother, thus stripping Ji Heng of any moral authority to give him orders. Ji Heng apologized for his mother's actions regarding Ji Zheng's birth mother, claiming she had her reasons, and offered to bear all of Ji Zheng's resentment.

Ji Zheng then demanded Ji Heng give him Shen Zhao'er, which Ji Heng firmly refused, stating she was a person, not an object to be traded. Ji Zheng declared he would no longer concede and would fight to reclaim Shen Zhao'er, even if it meant becoming enemies with Ji Heng, as his respect for his brother and Madame Ji was now gone.

Dong Zichun, working to frame Ji Heng, learned that Chen Wuyong had been captured and imprisoned within Mansion Ji. He instructed his subordinate to "add more fuel" to the situation by sending an anonymous note, via Chen Wuyong's contacts in the mansion, to Shen Zhao'er, revealing Ji Heng's secret detention of Chen Wuyong. Shen Zhao'er, receiving the message and driven by a need for answers, went to the dungeon, accompanied by a disguised helper known as Uncle Qian.

Ji Zheng also arrived, joining them. They found a gravely ill Chen Wuyong, barely clinging to life. Shen Zhao'er demanded to know who ordered her parents' murder. Chen Wuyong, in his dying moments, accused Ji Heng, claiming that Ji Heng's rising influence had made the late Jiedushi suspicious, leading to plans to pass his title to Ji Zheng. This, Chen Wuyong alleged, prompted Ji Heng to plot the late Jiedushi's poisoning, which Shen Qingyun refused to assist with.

Consequently, Ji Heng framed Shen Qingyun, leading to his exile and subsequent murder to ensure his silence. Shen Zhao'er, horrified, initially refused to believe him, accusing Chen Wuyong of fabricating the story to escape blame.

Chen Wuyong countered by asking why he, an individual with no personal enmity towards Shen Qingyun, would pursue them across great distances to kill them, noting that only a few high-ranking individuals in the mansion, including the late Jiedushi, Madame Ji, and Ji Heng, could have given him such orders. Ji Zheng, supporting these claims, further pressed the point that Ji Heng's actions of detaining and then poisoning Chen Wuyong were to silence him.

Chen Wuyong then claimed Ji Heng had poisoned him long ago to prevent him from revealing secrets. Ji Zheng added that Ji Heng had been in the mansion all along, not out chasing Chen Wuyong, and had deliberately hidden this from Shen Zhao'er to avoid her. This confluence of testimonies and circumstances made Ji Heng appear guilty in Shen Zhao'er's eyes, despite her fervent wish to believe otherwise. This new information was a devastating blow to Shen Zhao'er's trust.

She adamantly refused to believe anyone but Ji Heng himself. Ji Zheng, offering comfort, promised to stay by her side and protect her, no matter what truth emerged. Meanwhile, Ji Heng stood at Shen Qingyun and his wife's grave, the wind-blown leaves mirroring his desolate heart. He recalled meeting a young Shen Zhao'er at a fireworks festival and the profound warmth he felt in her home, a stark contrast to his own childhood.

He recognized that her ability to bring joy to others was a testament to her parents' loving upbringing. Ji Heng lamented his failure to save them, which led to Shen Zhao'er's difficult life. He expressed his deep desire to perpetuate their love and protect Zhao'er forever, but confessed that the true circumstances of their deaths left him unsure how to face her, fearing that revealing everything would only worsen the situation and cause her to leave him.

Upon returning to the dungeon, Ji Heng found Chen Wuyong dead. Sheng Anhuai reported no signs of struggle, indicating a suicide by poison. Ji Heng noted the unsettling similarity to the deaths of Madame Shu and the assassin at the banquet, both by poison. He immediately ordered Sheng Anhuai to investigate if Chen Wuyong's poison was the same as Madame Shu's, and to trace Chen Wuyong's movements and contacts before his death to uncover the truth. Sheng Anhuai also mentioned that the guard who was incapacitated during the dungeon infiltration had recovered and reported seeing "Dr. Tian" before he fainted.

Episode 25 Recap

Shen Zhao'er had been searching for Ji Heng, and upon hearing from Sheng Anhuai that Ji Heng had gone after Chen Wuyong on her behalf, she worried deeply about his safety. However, when she finally found him in the mansion, he had been deliberately avoiding her. The realization that her concern was wasted on someone who was hiding from her made her feel foolish and betrayed.

She confronted Ji Heng, demanding to know why he had captured Chen Wuyong, kept it from her, and then poisoned him. She pressed him, asking if he was the one who ordered Chen Wuyong to kill her parents. Ji Heng, wanting to protect his mother, chose to take the responsibility upon himself. In Shen Zhao'er's eyes, this was a direct admission. He admitted, "About the death of your parents, I do have a responsibility," and promised to make amends.

Shen Zhao'er, however, declared him a killer and vowed to seek revenge. As she advanced on him with a dagger, then retreated, struggling with her resolve, Ji Heng, desperate not to lose her again, told her he would not let her leave his side. Shen Zhao'er cried out her hatred for him, then stabbed him in the abdomen. As she fled, she was torn, hating Ji Heng but hating herself even more for having fallen in love with him.

Chaos erupted in the mansion as servants discovered Ji Heng, severely wounded and bleeding profusely. Shen Zhao'er was imprisoned. Ding Zhi, the imperial physician, was unable to stop the bleeding or safely remove the deep-seated blade. Madame Ji, alerted to the assassination, rushed to her son's side, heartbroken to see him in a coma, his delirious pleas for "Zhao'er" echoing through the room.

When she learned that Shen Zhao'er was responsible for the attack, her grief turned to fury, and she vowed severe retribution for anyone who threatened her son's life. Later, Madame Ji visited Shen Zhao'er in the prison.

She chastised Shen Zhao'er, revealing how much Ji Heng had done for her: seeking a high-ranking minister to adopt Shen Zhao'er as an honorary daughter, and even asking the Emperor to send him to pacify a rebellion to atone for Shen Zhao'er's crime of impersonating a male imperial physician. All these efforts were to clear a path for them to marry. Madame Ji questioned Shen Zhao'er's coldness and ability to inflict such a wound.

Shen Zhao'er simply responded, "I hate him." With that, Madame Ji declared her intention to report Shen Zhao'er to the imperial court, threatening to "send her on her way." Inside, Shen Zhao'er struggled, wishing she could hate Ji Heng, but finding herself unable to. Ji Zheng then arrived at the prison where Shen Zhao'er was being held, interrupting Madame Ji's confrontation. He demanded to know about Shen Zhao'er's safety, seemingly disregarding his brother's critical condition.

Ji Zheng revealed to Madame Ji that Shen Zhao'er had hurt Ji Heng because Ji Heng was responsible for her parents' death, a confession he attributed to Chen Wuyong. Madame Ji dismissed this as nonsense and reiterated her refusal to let Shen Zhao'er leave, threatening to eliminate the "troublemaker" herself. However, Ji Zheng warned Madame Ji that he would "fight to the bitter end" if she harmed Shen Zhao'er, explicitly threatening to escalate the conflict between the brothers.

It was during this confrontation that Madame Ji learned the extent of Ji Heng's sacrifices for her and realized that she was losing Ji Zheng, prompting her to eventually compromise to avoid the brothers killing each other. Back at Ji Heng's bedside, Ding Zhi assured Madame Ji that Ji Heng had passed the most dangerous phase and would soon awaken. Madame Ji, after instructing Sheng Anhuai to keep Ji Heng confined to his room, left.

Madame Ji had always believed her actions were to protect her son, but now, seeing the brothers turn against each other and Ji Heng in danger, losing his beloved, she could no longer bear to thwart his wishes. When Ji Heng later awoke to find his mother there, he despairingly told her that Shen Zhao'er was his life and that without her, he was a mere shell. He accused his mother of being cruel.

Madame Ji, overwhelmed with guilt, admitted that Shen Zhao'er's blade should have been for her, and Ji Heng had taken the blame to protect his "bad mother." She expressed regret for her past actions, which had caused him to lose his beloved. With a newfound understanding, she promised that if Ji Heng and Shen Zhao'er had another chance, she would no longer stand in their way. Ji Heng, grateful, thanked his mother.

Meanwhile, in a moving carriage, Ji Zheng offered Shen Zhao'er refuge at his mansion, believing that after her painful separation from Ji Heng, she might accept him. He emphasized their shared experiences of loss and betrayal, positioning himself as the one who understood her best. However, Ji Zheng had underestimated Shen Zhao'er's love for Ji Heng; even though she now believed Ji Heng was her parents' murderer, she couldn't bring herself to hate him.

Shen Zhao'er politely declined, stating that she had important people waiting at Wanhong Club and needed to return there, her heart in turmoil. Ji Zheng, after making her promise to contact him in any future danger, agreed to escort her. At Wanhong Club, Ji Zheng paid his respects to Auntie Wan Hong, Shen Zhao'er's guardian, acknowledging her as a benefactor for raising such an innocent girl.

He openly sought Auntie Wan Hong's blessing for his pursuit of Shen Zhao'er, which she granted, seeing it as a good outcome since Shen Zhao'er and Ji Heng's path together was no longer possible. Auntie Wan Hong also offered Shen Zhao'er a unique form of comfort, telling her to cry, eat, and then get busy.

She wisely advised that time was the ultimate cure for all heartaches, suggesting that with enough time and work, Shen Zhao'er would eventually forget Ji Heng. Elsewhere, Sheng Anhuai, following Ji Heng's orders, instructed his men to secretly protect Shen Zhao'er at Wanhong Club, and to monitor her movements, even suggesting sealing the establishment if necessary. Unaware of Ji Heng's protective intent, Ding Zhi arrived at the supposedly busy Wanhong Club, finding it deserted due to Sheng Anhuai's blockade.

Ding Zhi, known for his admiration of beautiful women, was completely fixated on Auntie Wan Hong. Mistaking Sheng Anhuai's actions as a punitive measure against Shen Zhao'er for injuring Ji Heng, Ding Zhi rushed to warn her, though he was largely distracted by his desire to be alone with Auntie Wan Hong. Zheng Shaofeng, also known as Dong Zichun, was informed that Shen Zhao'er had stabbed Ji Heng but failed to kill him.

He cynically noted Shen Zhao'er's "softheartedness" as a woman and resolved to further ignite the conflict between the Ji brothers. He sought out Ji Zheng and, exploiting Ji Zheng's knowledge of Shen Zhao'er's female identity and her vulnerable presence at Wanhong Club, subtly goaded him. Zheng Shaofeng suggested Ji Zheng take Shen Zhao'er by force, claiming that "women all love bad men." Ji Zheng vehemently rejected this, insisting he desired genuine affection.

Zheng Shaofeng then ominously warned Ji Zheng to beware of "others getting you first," hinting that Ji Heng might use unscrupulous methods while Ji Zheng adhered to his gentlemanly principles. Later, Shen Zhao'er, having been indirectly warned by Ding Zhi about Sheng Anhuai's presence, slipped out of Wanhong Club's back door to confront Sheng Anhuai. She questioned if he was "supervising" her.

Sheng Anhuai, loyal to Ji Heng and unaware of the full extent of their personal conflict, tried to persuade Shen Zhao'er to return to Ji Heng, emphasizing Ji Heng's deep love and his constant cries for her name while unconscious. When Shen Zhao'er refused to comply and threatened to call for help, Sheng Anhuai, asserting the authority of the Ji Mansion, attempted to forcibly bring her back.

At that moment, Ji Zheng, provoked by Zheng Shaofeng's earlier suggestions, dramatically intervened, ordering Sheng Anhuai to release Shen Zhao'er. Sheng Anhuai accused Ji Zheng of trying to steal Shen Zhao'er from General Ji Heng. Ji Zheng defiantly declared that Ji Heng had been taking what rightfully belonged to him, but this time, he would not yield. Using one woman to make the Ji brothers fight and kill each other, it seemed Zheng Shaofeng's goal would soon be realized.

Episode 26 Recap

Ji Zheng brought Shen Zhaoer back to her childhood home, a place that instantly transported Shen Zhaoer back to her early years and memories of a little brother. She recalled that he often came to play with her, teaching her how to write and always being kind. However, one day, her father told her he had gone to war, and the little brother never returned. Shen Zhaoer waited daily, but instead of his return, her family was exiled.

As Ji Zheng had no way of knowing about this hidden home, Shen Zhaoer naturally assumed he was her long-lost little brother. Ji Zheng, seeing her hopeful face, chose to perpetuate the deception. Shen Zhaoer, who had previously been distant from him, embraced Ji Zheng for the first time, moved by the connection to her childhood memories.

Ji Zheng, in his heart, acknowledged that these cherished memories were originally for his brother, Ji Heng, but confessed his own desire to be loved by Shen Zhaoer, even if it meant stealing those moments. Days later, Wan Hongyi visited Shen Zhaoer and was saddened by her haggard appearance. Shen Zhaoer explained that Ji Zheng was merely a close friend, like a brother, who used to visit her when they were children.

Wan Hongyi, however, sensed Ji Zheng's true feelings and urged Shen Zhaoer to move on from Ji Heng, who was her enemy, and consider a new relationship with Ji Zheng to heal from her past pain. But Shen Zhaoer firmly believed her heart had no room for anyone else. Meanwhile, Kang De and Kang Ning'er learned of the turmoil at the Ji mansion and pleaded with Madam Ji to allow them to return and care for Ji Heng.

With few trustworthy people left in the household and Kang Ning'er being a family member, Madam Ji, despite her past grievances, relented and permitted them to stay. Kang Ning'er began caring for the unconscious Ji Heng, seeing it as a precious opportunity to be near him. When Ji Heng slowly regained consciousness, his thoughts were solely of Shen Zhaoer. He became agitated upon noticing that Shen Zhaoer's portrait was missing from his table.

Kang Ning'er, who had only moved it to another spot, quickly reassured him that she would never harm anything he treasured. Calmed, Ji Heng, out of familial affection, agreed to let Kang De and Kang Ning'er remain in the mansion, unwilling to see them adrift. Kang Ning'er's actions, though a successful imitation of Shen Zhaoer's gentle ways, left her feeling a mix of triumph and deep sadness at being a mere stand-in.

She resolved to pursue a new path, telling Kang De that she would study medicine to further entrench herself in Ji Heng's life. The next morning, Shen Zhaoer eagerly summoned Ji Zheng to show him her redecorated home, painstakingly restored to its childhood state. She recounted their shared past, vividly describing their favorite writing desk and an old resting cot that her father had given up for them.

She even showed him a poem she had copied, a favorite of "the little brother's," proudly declaring that her calligraphy was thanks to his teaching. Ji Zheng listened, his heart aching as he realized that her joyous recounting of these memories was all for Ji Heng.

He internally confessed that every gentle word from her felt like a million needles to his heart, yet he couldn't reveal the truth because she remained with him only through this lie, and he couldn't bear to lose her. To divert her attention, Ji Zheng suggested they visit the lively market. There, amid the bustling crowds, a sudden rush of carts separated them.

Ji Heng, who had arranged this, seized the moment, pulling Shen Zhaoer away to a bridge, while Sheng Anhuai intercepted Ji Zheng. On the bridge, Ji Heng expressed his desire for one last chance, suggesting they watch the fireworks together. He finally confessed his true identity, revealing himself to be her childhood little brother. However, this revelation shattered Shen Zhaoer. What was once her only source of happy memories in a tragic past now felt like a cruel betrayal.

She accused him of being merciless for killing her parents despite their kindness to him. Declaring that she would hate him even more for this deception, Shen Zhaoer emphatically stated that their relationship was over. Ji Heng, heartbroken, pleaded for her to watch the fireworks with him one last time, hinting that it might be their final moment together.

Shen Zhaoer, unmoved, retorted that his actions no longer concerned her and reiterated that her initial stabbing of him, though not fatal, signified the complete severance of their ties. She vowed never to be moved by him again, only to despise him more. Ji Heng's old wound, which had never fully healed, re-opened and became inflamed due to his emotional distress and physical exertion. Overwhelmed by pain and a worsening fever, he collapsed.

Sheng Anhuai rushed him back to the mansion, where Madam Ji, distraught, questioned why his condition had worsened. She realized he must have gone to see Shen Zhaoer and angrily ordered her guards to capture her. Ji Heng, semi-conscious, weakly pleaded with his mother not to harm Shen Zhaoer, even threatening to refuse treatment if she did not agree. Desperate, Madam Ji relented, promising to spare Shen Zhaoer.

News of Ji Heng's critical condition and the doctors' inability to help quickly reached Ji Zheng. Shen Zhaoer, secretly listening, was horrified, immediately regretting her harsh words to Ji Heng. She tried to rush to his side, but Ji Zheng blocked her, fearing that Madam Ji would surely kill her if she went to the mansion, and confined her.

This further intensified the pain of a recent revelation: Shen Zhaoer had earlier confronted Ji Zheng after Ji Heng revealed his true identity. In that confrontation, Ji Zheng had admitted to impersonating her little brother and revealed he knew about her childhood memories because Ji Heng himself often spoke of his beloved little sister. Devastated by this deceit, Shen Zhaoer had ordered him to leave, wanting to be alone.

Ji Zheng, though heartbroken by her rejection, had resolved that he would never regret impersonating her little brother if it had brought her even a moment of comfort and happiness. Watching Shen Zhaoer refuse to eat, choosing to fast until she could join Ji Heng in death, Ji Zheng understood. She loved Ji Heng so deeply that she wished to be with him in life and death, despite the blood feud.

Shen Zhaoer explained that while they could not be together in life due to their family's tragic history, she hoped to pursue him in death and ask if he still wished to be with her. Seeing her unwavering resolve, Ji Zheng, realizing he could never win her heart, reluctantly allowed her to go. Shen Zhaoer rushed to Wan Hong Club, begging Wan Hongyi to use her renowned medical skills to save Ji Heng.

Wan Hongyi questioned Shen Zhaoer's deep love for her enemy and if she regretted stabbing him. Shen Zhaoer admitted that while she didn't regret the act as Shen Zhaoer, the wound on Ji Heng's body caused her incessant pain, as if it were her own. Touched by Shen Zhaoer's sincerity, Wan Hongyi agreed to help. Upon their arrival at the Ji mansion, Madam Ji immediately wanted to execute Shen Zhaoer.

However, with Sheng Anhuai and Wan Hongyi intervening and Ji Heng's life hanging by a thread, Madam Ji agreed to postpone any punishment until after Ji Heng's recovery, warning Shen Zhaoer that she would face severe consequences if she harmed her son. Wan Hongyi, disguised as Dr. Ye, was then led to Ji Heng's bedside.

Episode 27 Recap

Despite being saved by Madame Wan Hong, Ji Heng remained unconscious and unable to take his medicine. Seeing that others were at a loss, Shen Zhao'er stepped forward to try. When Ji Heng still couldn't open his mouth for the medicine, Shen Zhao'er, in a moment of desperation, administered it by mouth in front of everyone. Witnessing this, Madame Ji felt a sense of relief and entrusted Shen Zhao'er with Ji Heng's care until his full recovery.

Later, in her prayer room, Madame Ji was overcome by memories of her past crimes. She recalled how she had forced Ji Zheng's birth mother to her death and poisoned her own husband, the late General, with "Cun Duan" to protect herself and Ji Heng. However, Shen Qingyun, unaware of her guilt, discovered the poison in the late General. When he directly informed Madame Ji that the General had been poisoned, his own tragic fate was sealed.

Madame Ji's original intention was to have Chen Wuyong frame Shen Qingyun and exile his family. Instead, Chen Wuyong, likely instigated by Zheng Shaofeng, took it upon himself to kill them during their exile. Madame Ji later learned of Shen Qingyun's death but buried her conscience under the pretense of acting for her son's future. As Madame Ji continued to rationalize her past wrongdoings as necessary to protect her son, her prayer beads suddenly broke and scattered.

This startled her, finally compelling her to confront her evil deeds. She confessed her mistakes and prayed to Buddha, asking for punishment only for herself and vowing to atone for her sins for the rest of her life. Days passed, and under Shen Zhao'er's meticulous care, Ji Heng began to show signs of awakening. Kang Ning'er, who was present, noted Ji Heng's improved condition and suggested Shen Zhao'er could leave.

Shen Zhao'er hesitated, stating Ji Heng hadn't fully woken up yet. Kang Ning'er pressed her, asking if she would stay if Ji Heng, upon waking, asked her to. Shen Zhao'er firmly replied that she would not. Kang Ning'er then shared her own decision to give up on Ji Heng after realizing his feelings for Shen Zhao'er, but expressed frustration with the "blood feud" between them and Shen Zhao'er's unwillingness to forgive him.

She urged Shen Zhao'er to stop clinging to Ji Heng, to spare them both further pain. Upon regaining consciousness, Ji Heng sensed a familiar calming fragrance around him, recognizing it as Shen Zhao'er's. He deduced that she had been caring for him all along, despite Kang Ning'er's attempts to claim credit or attribute his treatment to "Dr. Ye, a famous doctor among the folk." He asked if Shen Zhao'er still hated him and if she refused to see him.

Madame Wan Hong (acting as Dr. Ye) met with Ji Heng, explaining Shen Zhao'er's "bitterness mixed with love and hate." She conveyed that even though Shen Zhao'er had lost her family because of him, she couldn't bear to see him die. Madame Wan Hong appealed to Ji Heng to "let go of your relationship" and "let Zhao'er go," acknowledging Shen Zhao'er's inability to face him.

Ji Heng, in turn, questioned who would "let "him" go," stating that love cannot simply be cast aside. Unable to confront Ji Heng, Shen Zhao'er decided to flee. She said her goodbyes to Ji Zheng, acknowledging his deep love but affirming that she was not the one for him and needed to start a new life. Ji Zheng, heartbroken, agreed to respect her decision but also expressed his desire to pursue his own happiness by accompanying her.

However, Shen Zhao'er left a note for Ji Zheng, asking for his forgiveness for her sudden departure and urging him not to waste any more time on her. She then secretly departed before dawn, hoping to avoid Ji Zheng. Unfortunately, Zheng Shaofeng intercepted her shortly after she left. Meanwhile, Ji Zheng received devastating news: his birth mother's tomb had been desecrated. Believing Ji Heng responsible, he stormed into the Ji Mansion, demanding a confrontation.

Ji Heng denied any involvement, urging Ji Zheng to calm down and promising to investigate the truth, but offered to face Ji Zheng's wrath if he believed him guilty. Driven by rage and convinced by Zheng Shaofeng's manipulation, Ji Zheng began mobilizing his forces, while Zheng Shaofeng also brought his own troops into the city. Officials, alarmed by Ji Zheng's suspicious actions, immediately informed Ji Heng, urging him not to show compassion.

Ji Heng publicly vowed to suppress the rebellion, even if it meant fighting his own brother. He also ordered an investigation into Chen Wuyong's connections, acknowledging that time was running out. Zheng Shaofeng, seeing his plan unfold, advised Ji Zheng that their combined forces were only equal to Ji Heng's, suggesting a stratagem.

Ji Zheng revealed his plan: he would announce his marriage to Shen Zhao'er as a ruse to lure Ji Heng, alone, to his Marquis Mansion, where he could be captured and killed. A messenger delivered Ji Zheng's letter to Ji Heng, informing him of the impending marriage and demanding that Ji Heng attend alone if he cared for the bride.

Despite his advisors warning him that it was a clear trap, Ji Heng accepted the invitation, agreeing to attend on time and preparing a "wedding gift" for Ji Zheng. Back at his stronghold, Zheng Shaofeng gloated to his subordinate about his cunning plan to have the Ji brothers destroy each other, noting that the deaths of Madame Shu and Chen Wuyong had also proven valuable. He then visited the captive Shen Zhao'er, who was bound and gagged.

Enjoying her distress, Zheng Shaofeng told her that Ji Heng was about to die, promising to make her witness it. He reveled in the thought that Shen Zhao'er, whom he called "Brother Tian" in a twisted sense, would be his ultimate weapon to destroy Ji Heng. He then instructed his men to ensure Shen Zhao'er was well-cared for, not to suffer, as she was crucial to his endgame. Shen Zhao'er struggled, her muffled cries of "Let me go" unheard.

Episode 28 (Ending) Recap

Despite knowing the immense danger involved, Madame Ji, having finally released her long-held obsessions, respected Ji Heng’s decision. He had expressed his unfilial nature but insisted he had to proceed with his plan. She, in turn, acknowledged her understanding of his heart and believed he would resolve matters with Ji Zheng in the best possible way, only asking him to protect himself. Ji Heng gratefully thanked her.

Meanwhile, Shen Zhao’er, held captive, reflected on recent events and began to truly regret the pain she had caused both Ji Heng and herself. In her mind, she desperately pleaded with him not to go. The Marquis Mansion buzzed with festive decorations for the upcoming wedding, a grand gamble that Ji Zheng believed would be worth it. An agent reported to Ji Zheng that Ji Heng had left the Jiedushi Yamen alone and was heading toward the mansion.

Ji Zheng inquired about Zheng Shaofeng's forces, receiving confirmation that everything was proceeding as planned. A soldier voiced concern, asking if Ji Zheng was certain, as there was no turning back. Ji Zheng affirmed the high stakes were justified, cryptically stating, "How my brother treats me, I'll return him with the same price," a statement only Ji Heng would truly comprehend. The wedding ceremony began with guests congratulating Ji Zheng.

As anticipated, Ji Heng arrived and, upon lifting the bride's veil to find someone other than Shen Zhao’er, immediately plunged his sword into Ji Zheng’s abdomen. Zheng Shaofeng, believing Ji Zheng to be dead, lauded Ji Heng's ruthlessness. He then triumphantly presented the bound Shen Zhao’er to Ji Heng, feeling his revenge was at hand and his years of plotting were finally culminating.

He publicly confessed his actions, revealing that only Shen Zhao’er, referred to as Tian Qi, could have lured Ji Heng into such a trap. He further taunted Shen Zhao’er, claiming that the true killer of her parents was someone else, not Ji Heng, who was merely taking the blame.

Ji Heng confronted Zheng Shaofeng, who fully disclosed his identity as Dong Zichun from Dong Mountain Village, confirming his alliance with Chen Wuyong and Mrs. Shu, and declaring that they had died for revenge and he intended to make Ji Heng pay double. Ji Heng accused Dong Zichun of intentionally sabotaging his relationship with Ji Zheng and desecrating Ji Zheng's mother's tomb to incite the brothers to kill each other, a fact Dong Zichun proudly admitted.

Using Shen Zhao’er, whom he knew to be Ji Heng’s true love, Dong Zichun forced Ji Heng to choose between watching her die or taking his own life. Ji Heng asked Shen Zhao’er if she could forgive him, adding that if she could, he would die without regrets, to which Dong Zichun promised to release her if he complied. As Ji Heng feigned self-harm, he tossed his sword upward, a pre-arranged signal for archers hidden above.

An arrow struck Dong Zichun. Simultaneously, Ji Zheng opened his eyes, rising to catch the airborne sword, and plunged it into Dong Zichun once more. Dong Zichun died, realizing too late that he had been deceived by the brothers' feigned animosity. Ji Zheng explained to Shen Zhao’er that he and Ji Heng had conspired the fake marriage upon discovering Zheng Shaofeng’s suspicious identity. He recalled how Ji Heng’s "gift" of soft armor allowed him to convincingly fake his injury.

Shen Zhao’er, having worried about the brothers for days, was furious to realize she had been tricked and that she was the biggest fool. She confronted them about who truly killed her parents, to which Ji Heng stoically replied, "Just assume it was me." Accusing them of teasing, fooling, and deceiving her by keeping her in the dark, she declared she never wanted to see either of them again, storming off despite their attempts to call her back.

With the main conflict settled, Madame Ji visited Shen Zhao’er at her old residence before departing to become a nun. She reflected on the peacefulness of the home, remarking that without her interference, Shen Zhao’er's family would have lived a happy life. When pressed, Madame Ji apologized for her role in the fate of Shen Zhao’er's parents, confessing that she was the true culprit and Ji Heng had only taken the blame for her.

Shen Zhao’er, heartbroken, asked her to leave, refusing her apology. Madame Ji explained her decision to become a nun and repent for her entire life, having only come to say her goodbyes. She implored Shen Zhao’er not to transfer her hatred to Ji Heng and not to abandon him after she and Ji Zheng left. Shen Zhao’er, still in pain, offered a quiet "Sorry, please," a mixed response of acceptance and unresolved hurt.

Shen Zhao’er subsequently retreated to Wanhong Club, refusing to see anyone, which deeply worried Wan Hong. Wan Hong concluded that only Ji Heng could cure Shen Zhao’er's emotional wounds. Ji Heng, determined to reconcile, began working as a staff member at the Club. He performed menial tasks, intentionally making a show of slipping while cleaning and developing blisters on his hands to elicit sympathy from Shen Zhao’er.

She initially expressed concern to Wan Hong about Ji Heng doing such work, but quickly reverted to her cold demeanor. Wan Hong, however, continued to nudge Shen Zhao’er, highlighting Ji Heng’s suffering. Eventually, other women at the Club began to openly flirt with Ji Heng. Seeing this, a jealous Shen Zhao’er immediately pulled Ji Heng away, asserting, "He is mine." With this explicit declaration, their reconciliation became certain. Meanwhile, Wan Hong also faced a persistent suitor.

Ding Zhi arrived at Wanhong Club with all his savings, proposing marriage. He presented his dowry, playfully suggesting he had "plundered" it, then clarified it was all his accumulated wealth. Wan Hong, unimpressed by the modest offering, challenged him, asking if the dowry truly matched her beauty. Ding Zhi, admitting it did not, was told that without a more satisfying dowry, he would not be allowed to step foot in Wanhong Club.

Far from being deterred, Ding Zhi was further captivated by her frankness and intelligence, realizing he was completely enamored with Wan Hong. That evening, Ji Heng took Shen Zhao’er to the spot where they used to watch fireworks, sharing a moment that felt like a return to their childhood. He acknowledged breaking his promise to spend every Firework Festival with her in the past but vowed never to fail her again.

They made a pinky promise to remain together for a hundred years, playfully reciting, "No break of promise for a hundred years. Whoever breaks it is a jerk." Though there were no fireworks, a rare meteor shower appeared. Shen Zhao’er encouraged him to make a wish, but Ji Heng, holding her close, responded that his greatest wish had already come true. The next day, Ji Zheng met Shen Zhao’er on the bridge where they had first met.

He explained that the deception he and Ji Heng had employed was a necessary tactic to capture Zheng Shaofeng, promising to include her, as "hero Tian," in any future plans. Ji Zheng then revealed that the bridge was where he first saw her, expressing that he never regretted knowing or falling in love with her, as she had brought him much happiness. As a parting gift, he gave her a portrait he had drawn of her after their initial encounter.

When Shen Zhao’er asked about his destination, Ji Zheng, embracing his identity as a wanderer, declared he would journey wherever there was beautiful scenery and beautiful women. He bid her a final goodbye, wishing her happiness, which she reciprocated. Soon after, Ji Heng and Shen Zhao’er were married, finally finding their happy ending and receiving blessings from all.

During the wedding night, Ji Heng presented a single cup for their nuptial wine, explaining that by sharing it, they would forever be each other's other half, inseparable for eternity. Later, in the intimacy of their chamber, they found themselves at a loss, both inexperienced in how to proceed. Resourcefully, Ji Heng retrieved the illustrated book Shen Zhao’er had once given him, suggesting they follow its instructions, to which she playfully called him annoying.

Even after marriage, Shen Zhao’er often continued to dress in men's clothing, amusingly leading many women who admired Ji Heng to mistakenly believe he had a preference for men, much to their dismay. Ji Heng, however, reveled in this, finding it part of their unique charm. Before long, their playful intimacy would be joined by another. Shen Zhao’er, having recently developed a fondness for sour foods, revealed to Ji Heng that she was pregnant.

Overwhelmed with joy, Ji Heng repeatedly expressed his excitement about becoming a father, thanking Shen Zhao’er and promising to love and cherish her forever. Their family was now embarking on a new chapter of happiness.