Fall in Love with a Fox Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Fall in Love with a Fox Synopsis
The top assassin of the martial arts world, Jin Baiwan, loses her memory and becomes a humble cook. She later encounters the extraordinarily scheming musician, Qu Wei. After enduring countless trials, the two eventually clarify their feelings for each other and resolve to join forces, overcome evil, and reaffirm justice.
Fall in Love with a Fox Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Where people exist, there is the martial arts world. This world is home to various sects that, while different, coexist harmoniously. Taoyuan Valley is known for its strict rules, Jin's Escort Agency for its generosity and justice, and the Nonuple Palace stands as the foremost power. Five years ago, rumors circulated about a secret manual called the Puyuan Canon, capable of bestowing unparalleled martial arts prowess. The Xu family, guardians of this scripture, suffered a massacre, and the canon vanished.
Five years later, the lost canon has mysteriously reappeared. The story begins with Jin Baiwan, a cook at Jin's Escort Agency. Jin Baiwan stepped out and was immediately surrounded by people from bookstores and eager readers. They pressed her for updates on the novels written by her Miss, Qiu Qiuer, who is currently the most popular novel author. They knew that Jin Baiwan was the only one who could persuade her Miss to update.
Jin Baiwan, stating she was just a cook, tried to escape, noticing it looked like rain and she needed to collect laundry at home. Returning home, Jin Baiwan found her Miss, Jin Muqiu, distraught and threatening self-harm. Jin Muqiu adamantly refused to marry into Taoyuan Valley, happy with her current life writing novels and having never even met the Lord of Valley Junior.
She feared he would be a debauched, unfaithful man and that she would face a cruel mother-in-law, eventually leading to her demise, just like in the melodramatic plots of her novels. Jin Baiwan comforted her, claiming to have already devised a plan. Yu Linfeng, the Lord of Valley Junior from Taoyuan Valley, arrived at Jin's Escort Agency to fulfill the marriage contract, expressing his sincerity.
He noted that Miss Jin was late to meet him and wondered if she was dissatisfied with the match. Jin Baiwan brought Jin Muqiu, who initially hid her face with a fan. When she lowered the fan, her face was covered in erythema. Yu Linfeng said her willingness to meet him despite this condition showed great sincerity. He then formally asked if she was willing to marry into Taoyuan Valley. Jin Muqiu immediately agreed.
Jin Baiwan was thrown into a panic. She recalled that five years ago, Jin Muqiu had saved her when she had lost her memory and had protected her ever since. Feeling deeply indebted, Jin Baiwan realized she couldn't provide a suitable dowry for her Miss. Overhearing the escort chief turn down a job to escort a Buddhist scripture because they were short-handed, Jin Baiwan immediately volunteered to take on the task herself.
For Jin Muqiu's dowry, Jin Baiwan, who had not left the agency alone in the five years since she was saved, decided to venture out into the martial arts world. Jin Baiwan successfully reached Furong Town. Along the way, she heard people discussing a zither player, Mr Qu. Initially dismissive, she was captivated upon seeing Qu Jinyu and sat down to listen.
Unseen by her, a group of people watched her and her package, having learned she was escorting the long-lost Puyuan Canon. Qu Jinyu noticed them. While playing, he subtly took care of the lurking attackers. They became angry, and Jin Baiwan stepped forward. Qu Jinyu, portraying helplessness, thanked her profusely, claiming she had saved him and asking for her name. He introduced himself as Qu Jinyu. They parted ways, with Jin Baiwan helping the seemingly injured Qu Jinyu.
Later, while Jin Baiwan was eating noodles, someone attempted to poison her using a snake trick. Qu Jinyu appeared again, orchestrating a distraction involving a child stealing a purse, which foiled the poisoning attempt and made it appear as though Jin Baiwan had saved him from the thief. Jin Baiwan began to suspect Qu Jinyu attracted trouble. He further requested she become his bodyguard, praising her martial arts skill and ability to deter attackers.
As Qu Jinyu made his request, they were suddenly surrounded. This turned out to be a trap set by Yu Chen and the Mole Gang, with the gang acting openly and Yu Chen in the shadows. Yu Chen stepped out, claiming the canon and directing the gang. They captured Jin Baiwan and Qu Jinyu. Jin Baiwan realized the attackers were after her package and wondered if Qu Jinyu was somehow involved.
During the struggle, one of the Mole Gang members appeared to die, but Jin Baiwan saw through the deception. The gang took them away, falsely accusing Jin Baiwan of murder. Jin Baiwan also noticed that Qu Jinyu displayed martial arts skill despite his earlier claims. Back at Jin's Escort Agency, Jin Muqiu and Yu Linfeng received troubling news: messages had been sent to various sects claiming Jin Baiwan was escorting the Puyuan Canon, putting her in great danger.
Yu Linfeng deemed the timing during their marriage preparations suspicious and deliberate. He insisted their priority was to return to Taoyuan Valley, promising to send people to search for Baiwan and keep Jin Muqiu informed. Jin Muqiu, standing behind Yu Linfeng, expressed her concern, revealing she knew the Mole Gang leader hadn't died and it was a trap. Imprisoned, Jin Baiwan and Qu Jinyu discussed their predicament.
Qu Jinyu reiterated that he had to help her since she had saved him earlier. Jin Baiwan apologized for having initially thought he was merely a handsome, useless young man. Qu Jinyu teased her about finding him handsome. They learned that the canon's wooden box was specially sealed by Jin's Escort Agency and could not be opened by force by anyone other than the designated escort person.
Qu Jinyu proposed a plan to retrieve the canon and escape, but warned it would require a significant sacrifice from her, even getting married. They decided to stage a dramatic scene for their captors. In the jail cell, they pretended to be a desperate couple on the verge of death, performing a makeshift marriage ceremony. Jin Baiwan agreed to the plan, willing to do anything, even marrying the Mole Gang leader (in the performance), to retrieve the canon and escape.
Crying, they exchanged vows, Qu Jinyu pledging eternal devotion to "Miss Baiwan." They also loudly announced that forcing the wooden box open would trigger an internal mechanism, causing the gunpowder inside to explode and destroy the canon and everything around it. Mole Gang members overheard their 'marriage' and the warning about the box. They reported to their boss, who was alive and well after faking his death. The boss decided to exploit their apparent affection.
He entered the cell, emphasizing the paramount importance of love over worldly possessions like scriptures. Knowing only Jin Baiwan could open the box, he threatened to kill Qu Jinyu unless she complied. Jin Baiwan pretended to yield, agreeing to open the box to save Qu Jinyu. As she approached, she revealed that the box had no complex mechanism but was made of wood designed to ignite instantly when exposed to fire.
She threatened to burn the box and the canon if they were not released immediately. Just then, Yu Chen appeared, claiming to be an old acquaintance of Jin's Escort Agency. He confronted the Mole Gang, creating a diversion and helping Jin Baiwan and Qu Jinyu escape from the prison. Yu Chen led them away from the fleeing Mole Gang members and took them to his house. Jin Baiwan was relieved, thanking Yu Chen for saving them and offering them shelter.
Qu Jinyu had sustained a slight injury. At Yu's house, Jin Baiwan tended to Qu Jinyu's wound. She mentioned their fake marriage in the cell, telling him not to take it seriously. He agreed but noted her apparent concern. He asked if she already had someone she cared for. She denied it, stating she was focused on her adventures in the martial arts world and not concerned with romantic matters. He then asked if she would be willing to stay if a handsome, wise, and courageous man wanted to keep her by his side.
Episode 2 Recap
After escaping the Mole Gang, Jin Baiwan tells Qu Zheng that she considers him a friend, having been through danger together. Qu Zheng agrees, saying it's an honor to be her friend and they should avoid misunderstandings. A servant arrives, stating that the young master of the house, Yu Chen, wishes to meet with them. Jin Baiwan questions Qu Zheng's presence. As they head to meet Yu Chen, Jin Baiwan and Qu Zheng discuss their suspicions.
They realize that Yu Chen's timing and knowledge of their identities are too coincidental, especially since they never revealed they were from Jin's Escort Agency. They conclude Yu Chen is likely after the sacred book. Qu Zheng suggests they cannot stay, but worries it will be difficult to leave. He promises to protect Jin Baiwan, reminding her he vowed to be her escort.
Jin Baiwan points out he doesn't know martial arts, but he insists he has a way to protect her. Meeting Yu Chen, Qu Zheng states they have pressing matters and must depart. Yu Chen refuses, claiming Miss Jin is too impressed by his "handsome assistance" and must stay, promising her safety within his residence. Jin Baiwan protests, arguing he cannot force someone from Jin's Escort Agency. Yu Chen reiterates that he will ensure her safety if she stays.
He tells Qu Zheng he is free to leave. Surprisingly, Qu Zheng agrees, stating that since Yu Chen is so sincere about wanting Miss Jin to stay, he will comply with all his arrangements. Yu Chen is confused, mentioning the wedding ceremony in the Mole Gang. Qu Zheng explains it was just a tactic to deceive the gang leader, echoing Jin Baiwan's earlier sentiment that it was a measure taken in urgency and not to be dwelled upon.
Jin Baiwan expresses her frustration, feeling betrayed, but Qu Zheng assures her that everything is preordained and she should trust him, adding that she lacks sufficient Jianghu experience and is too trusting. Yu Chen accepts the explanation and says Qu Zheng can leave the next morning. Outside, a servant confirms to Yu Chen that the sacred book was not found in the bag. Yu Chen confirms Qu Zheng will be seen off in the morning.
Jin Baiwan confronts Qu Zheng, demanding an explanation. He tells her it's inappropriate for her to keep bothering him like this in Yu Chen's house. She accuses him of being ungrateful and a traitor. Qu Zheng replies that facing danger, he must prioritize his own safety, and blames her for being too trusting. He repeats that everything is preordained.
A servant arrives to escort Jin Baiwan for a bath and change of clothes, as ordered by Yu Chen, who is listening outside. Jin Baiwan, alone, feels resentful towards Qu Zheng but then considers his words about everything being preordained, wondering if he has another plan. Qu Zheng arrives urgently, whispering to Jin Baiwan that he has thrown the sacred book over Yu's house wall, just as she instructed him to.
They agree to retrieve it after escaping the next day. Yu Chen, hearing this exchange, is fooled, believing the book was thrown out earlier on Jin Baiwan's instructions and orders his men to search for it outside. Using the distraction, Jin Baiwan and Qu Zheng escape to a lantern festival. Amidst the crowd, a masked man, Xu Yifei, intervenes, claiming to protect Jin Baiwan from some rascals and introduces himself. Yu Chen's men arrive, pursuing them.
Yu Chen publicly accuses Jin Baiwan of ruining his reputation and claims she fled because he abandoned her. Jin Baiwan retorts that she cannot marry him because he suffers from a serious venereal disease, which enrages Yu Chen. They chase her, and she finds herself cornered high up. As Yu Chen's men try to get her down, Jin Baiwan reveals the sacred book, threatening to tear it. Yu Chen orders his men to get the book and capture her.
Qu Zheng appears and rescues her. As they flee, Jin Baiwan sees Mole Gang members among their pursuers, realizing they are allied with Yu Chen. Qu Zheng's actions reveal he possesses martial arts skills, causing Jin Baiwan to suspect he knows Kung Fu. Qu Zheng helps Jin Baiwan get away. Outside the city, Qu Zheng's cousin, Su Zhuozhuo, is waiting and joins them.
Jin Baiwan refers to Su Zhuozhuo as her cousin, which Su Zhuozhuo immediately rejects, telling Jin Baiwan not to be disrespectful or flirtatious towards Qu Zheng just because he saved her. Qu Zheng introduces Su Zhuozhuo as his cousin. Jin Baiwan notes that both Yu Chen and the villains from the noodle shop were after her escorted goods. She states her determination to deliver the sacred book despite the increased danger. Qu Zheng asks if she intends to go alone.
Jin Baiwan asks where Qu Zheng and Su Zhuozhuo are headed. Qu Zheng says he is searching for someone who is traveling towards Tongzhou. Jin Baiwan realizes they are going in the same direction and suggests they travel together for mutual support. Qu Zheng agrees. Su Zhuozhuo expresses concern about being an inconvenience to Jin Baiwan, who is a Jianghu person, but Jin Baiwan insists it will be more lively together. They decide to travel as a group.
Taking a break, Jin Baiwan offers to cook, calling herself the "gold medal chef" of Jin's Escort Agency. Qu Zheng praises her cooking, but Su Zhuozhuo finds it too spicy and salty, questioning why Jin Baiwan carries so much chili. Jin Baiwan explains her love for spicy food, noting that Jinbian Town is known for it. Qu Zheng asks if she grew up in Jin's Escort Agency and never left, and she confirms this. Qu Zheng seems thoughtful.
Later, while Jin Baiwan sleeps, Qu Zheng discusses her with Su Zhuozhuo. He mentions the person he is looking for did not like spicy food before, making him unsure if Jin Baiwan is the one. Su Zhuozhuo reports on the two mysterious masked figures at the lantern festival, noting the leader's high martial skill and that she lost them during tracking. She also discovered the sacred book is meant for someone named Qing Songke, whose affiliation is unknown.
Qu Zheng tells her the masked figures will likely reappear if they are after the book and he must quickly determine if Jin Baiwan is the person he seeks. Separately, in the Nonguple Palace, Zi Jing reports to Lord Xueyue that the escort escaped to Yu's house with the sacred book. Lord Xueyue emphasizes finding out if the book is authentic, stating the escort's life is secondary, but stresses maintaining secrecy about Nonguple Palace's involvement.
Later, Zi Jing reports that Jin Baiwan has not been found since escaping the lantern festival and someone is likely helping her hide. She confirms the book is for Qing Songke but is still investigating his identity. Lord Xueyue insists she prioritize finding the escort Jin Baiwan, as she is the priority, and the book must not fall into other hands. Meanwhile, Jin Muqiu travels with Lin Feng.
Lin Feng injures his hand, and Jin Muqiu attempts to help him and find medicine, even involving her father in finding special family medicine. Jin Muqiu overhears Lin Feng speaking to his subordinate about their engagement being for the sake of their families and hoping they can simply be respectful towards each other, lacking any mention of love.
Lin Feng then offers Jin Muqiu fruit, which she learns he also gave to other maids, confirming her suspicion that he lacks romantic feelings for her. Jin Muqiu feels sad, realizing the engagement is merely a family arrangement and he doesn't genuinely love her. Back on the road, Jin Baiwan tries to determine if Qu Zheng knows martial arts by examining his hands under the pretense of reading his palm and later, his bones.
She notices the calluses from playing the "qin". Su Zhuozhuo catches Jin Baiwan examining Qu Zheng and accuses her of being interested in him, mentioning the marriage agreement, to which Jin Muqiu previously confided that Lin Feng doesn't like her. During their journey, Qu Zheng is bitten by a snake while fetching fruit. Jin Baiwan helps him, but Su Zhuozhuo blames Jin Baiwan for the incident, noting how Qu Zheng is kinder to Jin Baiwan than to her.
Qu Zheng defends Jin Baiwan, calling her pure and simple. As Jin Baiwan treats his wound, she apologizes for causing him trouble and admits she lied about her past. She confesses that she was found by her young female master five years ago, has no memory of her life before that, and was instructed not to reveal her history. To show her gratitude for his help, she gives Qu Zheng a pendant she has always worn. Qu Zheng looks stunned upon seeing it.
Episode 3 Recap
Jin Baiwan offered Qu Zheng the pendant she always wore, explaining that she had nothing else to repay his great kindness. Though the pendant wasn't valuable, she had always kept it with her, and wished to give it to him if he didn't mind. Qu Zheng hesitated, asking if she was certain about giving away such a personal item, especially if it might be related to her origins.
Jin Baiwan stated its preciousness was precisely why it could express her gratitude. Qu Zheng countered that if it was given to her by someone important who cared for her deeply, they wouldn't want to see her give it away. However, given that he had saved her several times, perhaps the giver would only wish her to keep it safe.
Qu Zheng suggested they rest there for the night and offered to get water, but Jin Baiwan insisted she go, mentioning his recent recovery from snake venom. Qu Zheng said he was fine and offered to make a fire and cook, but found his lighter missing. Back in the carriage while searching for her lighter, Jin Baiwan discovered a token from the Yan School.
Realizing the Yan School's lineage of medical practice, she understood why Su Zhuozhuo's medical skills were so high, but was puzzled as to why she had kept it secret. Stepping out, she overheard Su Zhuozhuo talking to Qu Zheng, addressing him as "Mr. Qu." Jin Baiwan found this form of address odd, especially if they were supposed to be cousins as she previously thought.
She heard Su Zhuozhuo mention their main task was to keep Jin Baiwan stable because they were after the book, the Puyuan Canon, and feared she would run away with it. Su Zhuozhuo questioned why they didn't just take it directly, but Qu Zheng stated he had his own plans. Jin Baiwan, now realizing their true intentions, quickly feigned ignorance when they turned around. She decided she would quietly leave that night. That night, Jin Baiwan slipped away.
Qu Zheng and Su Zhuozhuo searched for a long time but found no trace of her. Jin Baiwan arrived at an inn but was immediately spotted by Yu Chen and men from the Mole Gang who were just arriving. She tried to act casual but was discovered. They captured her and celebrated finding the Puyuan Canon and catching Jin Baiwan, drinking heavily.
Jin Baiwan waited patiently until they were drunk, then managed to untie herself and was about to escape with the book when Yu Chen woke up. Qu Zheng appeared just in time to help Jin Baiwan. During the fight, when Qu Zheng was nearly attacked from behind, Jin Baiwan instinctively shielded him, receiving a knife wound herself. She was surprised she would protect someone as cunning as a fox and realized Qu Zheng actually knew martial arts.
However, due to her injury, she soon lost consciousness. Meanwhile, at the Nonuple Palace, representatives from various schools discussed the recent rumors about the Puyuan Canon circulating in the martial world. The tragic massacre of the Xu family five years prior due to this same martial art manual was still a vivid memory, raising questions about who was causing the current unrest. Most schools agreed that the Nonuple Palace should investigate the matter.
The conversation revealed tension between the Young Host of the Nonuple Palace and Envoy Xueyue. Jin Baiwan eventually woke up, injured. Qu Zheng stayed nearby and revealed his true identity, explaining he was Qu Zheng, the Lord of the Tingqin Garden, who had founded it three years ago. He confessed to keeping his identity secret but assured her he was not a bad person and was investigating the Puyuan Canon because of the events five years ago.
Jin Baiwan understood he wasn't trying to steal the book and realized that he had been secretly protecting her all along, rather than the other way around, recalling incidents at Yu Chen's house and the lantern show. She was worried about her surroundings due to her injury and was startled by a mouse.
Seeing her fear, Qu Zheng suggested they tie their hands together with a long red string with bells, promising to guard her from outside her room to ensure the book's safety and protect her. He played the zither to help her sleep. Feeling secure and happy, Jin Baiwan thanked him for saving her life but added she wouldn't forget his lies. They discussed the difference between the real martial world and stories, and why swordsmen travel.
Qu Zheng mentioned he was searching for a specific girl, describing her virtues, martial arts skills, and cooking, making Jin Baiwan doubt such perfection existed. Qu Zheng confirmed he had found the girl he was looking for. At the Nonuple Palace, the Young Host sought out his father, the Host, to volunteer for the Puyuan Canon investigation, expressing dissatisfaction that it was assigned to Envoy Xueyue.
The Host stated the matter was settled and emphasized that the Nonuple Palace valued strength, urging the Young Host to use his power to gain what he wanted instead of begging for opportunities. Back with Jin Baiwan, Qu Zheng said he had found a highly-skilled doctor for her and expected her arrival soon. To Jin Baiwan's dismay, the doctor was Su Zhuozhuo.
The two women immediately began bickering, with Su Zhuozhuo refusing to treat Jin Baiwan after being separated from Qu Zheng overnight. Jin Baiwan reminded Su Zhuozhuo they had lied about being cousins and were acting suspiciously. Su Zhuozhuo retorted that Jin Baiwan had run away, which was her own fault. Qu Zheng intervened, urging Su Zhuozhuo to treat Jin Baiwan, who was injured because of him, assuring Jin Baiwan that Su Zhuozhuo, despite being blunt, was a kind doctor.
Su Zhuozhuo agreed to treat her on the condition that Jin Baiwan hand over the Puyuan Canon. Qu Zheng postponed discussing this. Jin Baiwan accused them of being no different from Yu Chen, only wanting the book. Qu Zheng reminded Su Zhuozhuo that Jin Baiwan was injured and needed treatment, threatening to find another doctor if Su Zhuozhuo insisted on using it as leverage. Su Zhuozhuo reluctantly agreed to treat her without the condition.
Su Zhuozhuo gave Jin Baiwan several bowls of foul-smelling medicine, which Jin Baiwan found difficult to drink. Qu Zheng offered her a preserved plum to help with the bitterness. Jin Baiwan felt her shoulder pain ease.
Later, Su Zhuozhuo admitted the pain relief medicine had a side effect and revealed she had intentionally caused a rash on Jin Baiwan's face, saying it was a lesson because she believed Jin Baiwan's family was not strict enough and Jin Baiwan was shamelessly bothering Qu Zheng. Jin Baiwan was angered by the insult to her and the Jin's Escort Agency. Qu Zheng stepped in, asking Su Zhuozhuo to be lenient due to Jin Baiwan's injury.
When Jin Baiwan was still upset, Qu Zheng apologized to her on behalf of Su Zhuozhuo, admitting it was his fault that Su Zhuozhuo was angry at her. Jin Baiwan understood.
Episode 4 Recap
Jin Muqiu's father expressed his approval of Yu Linfeng, telling his daughter he believed Linfeng would be a good husband. However, Jin Muqiu insisted that Linfeng didn't like her at all and wanted to break off their engagement. Her father, angered by this, declared he would confront Linfeng, but Jin Muqiu stopped him, suggesting they make Linfeng like her instead.
She revealed herself to be the famous novelist Qiu qiuer and planned to follow plots from her stories to win him over, imagining great success. Yet, reality proved disappointing. In one attempt, she invited Linfeng to a romantic location, but her plans were disrupted by his unexpected allergies to tea trees and perfume. Linfeng seemed oblivious to her efforts, even when she tried to get closer to him under the pretense of keeping warm.
Linfeng's own subordinate observed the situation and commented on Jin Muqiu's obvious attempts to create alone time and Linfeng's lack of romantic understanding. Meanwhile, Jin Baiwan was guarding the Puyuan Canon even while sleeping. Su Zhuozhuo attempted to take the canon and was caught by Jin Baiwan. Jin Baiwan stopped her from leaving, demanding an apology and threatening to expose her actions at the martial arts meeting if she didn't comply.
Su Zhuozhuo felt unfairly treated, but Qu Zheng arrived and acknowledged that Jin Baiwan had a point. Su Zhuozhuo reluctantly apologized. Jin Baiwan then insisted that from now on, Qu Zheng, whom she called a "righteous gentleman," should stay in her room while she slept to guard the canon against any further attempts. Su Zhuozhuo protested, calling Jin Baiwan shameless, but Qu Zheng surprisingly agreed to the arrangement. Later, Jin Baiwan and Qu Zheng played a dice game.
Qu Zheng repeatedly lost bets on "big," yet seemed cheerful despite the losses, even mentioning "bride price" should be used for a wife. Jin Baiwan found his behavior strange. That night, Qu Zheng appeared in Jin Baiwan's room, intending to fulfill his promise to guard the book. Jin Baiwan was surprised, reminding him their agreement was just a pretense for Su Zhuozhuo. Qu Zheng insisted he keeps his promises and made himself comfortable, trusting her not to do anything improper.
Jin Baiwan, calling him a "cunning fox," promptly kicked him out. Afterward, Qu Zheng discussed the situation, noting that news of the Puyuan Canon had spread widely and the person they sought must be involved. He determined they needed to set off. He decided against bringing Jin Baiwan, explaining that her injury, memory loss, and lack of martial arts made the journey too dangerous, and he wanted her to be safe.
The next morning, Jin Baiwan awoke in the yard to find a note from Qu Zheng stating he had taken the canon and left. She became even more convinced he was a cunning fox. Still upset about her failed romantic attempts, Jin Muqiu was comforted by her father. He revealed he had been discreetly gathering information and presented her with a list of Yu Linfeng's preferences and hobbies, obtained from his subordinate.
Jin Muqiu was delighted, and her father explained this method of understanding the other person's likes was how he had courted her mother. He was confident this "targeted approach" would succeed. Meanwhile, Jin Baiwan had managed to track down Qu Zheng and Su Zhuozhuo, even following them on a shortcut. She confronted Qu Zheng for drugging her and stealing the book, calling him a cunning fox.
Qu Zheng defended his actions, mentioning his earlier help in getting her wound treated, and claimed he took the book only because the path to Yinxue Village was too dangerous for her. He said he took the risk to protect her by delivering the escort himself. Jin Baiwan refused to back down, asserting that delivering the book was her mission and the agency's responsibility.
Seeing her determination, Qu Zheng physically intervened and threw her into a tree to prevent her from following further. While she called for help, they left. In Nonguple Palace, Jing Yuan held a captive who questioned his motives. Jing Yuan dismissed the captive, calling him a "dead man" who didn't need answers. Another figure, addressed as "Your Majesty" by the captive, arrived. This figure declared their need for the Puyuan Canon.
Envoy Xueyue reported the canon from Jin's Escort Agency was likely authentic and was being sent to someone named Qing Songke. The Envoy revealed that Qing Songke possessed a hidden identity as the sole descendant of a branch of the Xu family, suggesting someone intended to return the canon to its rightful owners. The Envoy offered to retrieve the book, but the main figure stated they would handle it personally if the canon was indeed real.
Jin Baiwan, having escaped the tree, caught up to Qu Zheng and Su Zhuozhuo again, dismissing Qu Zheng's previous attempt to stop her as simple tricks. Qu Zheng expressed weariness but accepted she wouldn't give up the pursuit of the canon. Jin Baiwan began posting notices everywhere, publicly slandering Qu Zheng as a deceitful, shameless thief who stole her book. These notices described his appearance and accused him and Su Zhuozhuo of being dangerous villains.
Consequently, when Qu Zheng and Su Zhuozhuo tried to buy food, vendors refused service, having been warned by Jin Baiwan that they were dangerous robbers who would cause disaster if fed. Su Zhuozhuo was angered by Jin Baiwan's actions, which damaged their reputation and prevented them from getting supplies. Jin Baiwan retorted that it was just punishment for stealing her book. Qu Zheng confronted Jin Baiwan, warning her not to push him too far.
He reminded her that while he had helped her, he would defend himself if necessary. He presented her with a stark choice given the dangers ahead: her life or the canon. Jin Baiwan, though taken aback, stood firm, stating that Jin's Escort Agency never failed a mission and she would never abandon her duty, even at the cost of her life. Recognizing her unwavering resolve, Qu Zheng conceded and agreed to let her accompany them.
They decided to stop at a tea house to discuss the journey. Qu Zheng reiterated that his prior attempts to deter her were due to his concern for her safety on the dangerous path to Yinxue Village. Jin Baiwan maintained that the canon was the agency's charge and must be delivered by her. Qu Zheng admitted he had acted presumptuously. Su Zhuozhuo worried that Jin Baiwan's public accusations meant everyone now knew Qu Zheng had the book, increasing the risk.
Jin Baiwan suggested they disguise themselves to avoid attention. They arrived near Yinxue Village, finding it eerily deserted. Jin Baiwan called out for Qing Songke but received no answer. She noted fresh footprints despite the area appearing abandoned, determined to complete her delivery. As she explored, a group of mysterious figures emerged.
Episode 5 Recap
A group of people had been waiting and quickly surrounded Jin Baiwan, Su Zhuozhuo, and Qu Zheng. Qu Zheng of Tingqin Garden introduced himself and inquired about their purpose there. The group accused Jin Baiwan, an escort from Jin's Escort Agency, of killing the hero Qing Songke and stealing the Puyuan Canon. Jin Baiwan retorted that the villagers claimed Qing Songke had died years ago and accused her opponents of fabricating the story to steal the Canon themselves.
An argument ensued, and in the resulting struggle, the box containing the Canon broke open. To everyone's surprise, instead of a full scripture, only two pages with writing were found, the rest being blank paper. The attackers immediately claimed Jin Baiwan had swapped the real Canon. Jin Baiwan began to protest her innocence, but Qu Zheng stepped forward. He declared that Qing Songke was likely a fictitious figure and the purported Canon only contained two pages.
He suggested that those who were fighting over it had fallen into a trap due to their own greed. As the Lord of Tingqin Garden, Qu Zheng stated he would investigate the matter thoroughly and warned anyone who interfered under the guise of justice would face his ruthlessness. The crowd dispersed. Jin Baiwan was confused about the fake Canon, while Su Zhuozhuo confirmed it was a scam.
Despite the confusion, Jin Baiwan insisted her mission was to deliver the Canon, real or fake, to its intended recipient to complete her duty, leaving the two pages behind. Jin Baiwan asked Qu Zheng what they should do next. Qu Zheng instructed Su Zhuozhuo to immediately return to the Yan School to inform all the Grandmasters of the situation. Su Zhuozhuo asked Qu Zheng to accompany her, but he declined, citing important matters, and stated she must travel alone.
Su Zhuozhuo was reluctant to leave him alone with Jin Baiwan, but Qu Zheng clarified this was not a leisure trip. Su Zhuozhuo reluctantly agreed to return to the Yan School and departed. Jin Baiwan felt Qu Zheng was eager to be rid of her. Qu Zheng then informed Jin Baiwan that, given the circumstances with the Canon delivered, he saw no further reason to travel with her and it was time for them to part ways.
Jin Baiwan protested, saying she hadn't even gotten a signed receipt for the delivery, but Qu Zheng pointed out Qing Songke was dead. She suggested accompanying him, but Qu Zheng stated traveling alone was easier. Jin Baiwan expressed concern about being secretly observed or pursued by the people who had just accused her. Qu Zheng reminded her they had agreed to part ways after the delivery.
Jin Baiwan insisted she knew he wouldn't abandon her, but Qu Zheng argued that the current situation was dangerous, and being with him might put her in greater peril. He advised her to take care, and Jin Baiwan, putting on a brave face, walked away alone, though inwardly feeling hurt. Unseen by Jin Baiwan and Qu Zheng, one of Qu Zheng's dark guards observed a masked figure approach the place where the pages were left.
The dark guard confirmed only two pages remained, and the masked figure seemed to be the leader of the group encountered previously at the lantern festival. Shortly after Jin Baiwan departed, she was attacked. Her assailant stated they were specifically looking for her. Just as she was in danger, a masked figure, one of Qu Zheng's dark guards, intervened and helped her, telling her to escape.
Jin Baiwan was reluctant to leave her rescuer behind, but the dark guard dismissed her concern, saying they had just met by chance. Meanwhile, Qu Zheng confronted the masked figure at the old house. Qu Zheng revealed he had expected the figure to come and noted they employed various martial arts styles, asking them to reveal their true identity. The masked figure attacked with a powerful palm strike, which Qu Zheng blocked.
The figure was surprised by Qu Zheng's ability to restrain their force. Qu Zheng deduced that the masked figure was familiar with the Puyuan Canon and suspected their animosity was personal, possibly related to an incident five years prior. The masked figure then fled. Qu Zheng quickly went to check on Jin Baiwan. Finding her safe, he asked why she was looking for her rescuer, pointing out he was there.
Jin Baiwan clarified she meant the masked figure who had directly saved her. Qu Zheng then inquired if he himself had been injured in the fight. Jin Baiwan expressed concern for his well-being, calling him chivalrous and saying she knew he would come for her. Qu Zheng claimed he was merely passing by. Since they were both safe, he again suggested parting ways. Jin Baiwan, feeling unsafe in the dangerous forest, proposed they return to the previous inn.
Qu Zheng agreed. That night at the inn, sharing a room, Jin Baiwan decided to seize the opportunity to convince Qu Zheng to travel with her further. She tried flattering him by recounting his impressive reputation and achievements, such as dominating the Wuhu Meeting and founding the Tingqin Garden. Qu Zheng noted her knowledge.
Jin Baiwan, hesitant to directly state her needs, confided that she couldn't return to the Jin's Escort Agency yet because the Canon matter was unresolved, and going back would only jeopardize the agency. She then asked if Qu Zheng could take her to Taoyuan Valley. Qu Zheng immediately refused, citing pressing family affairs.
Jin Baiwan pressed him for details, but Qu Zheng claimed fatigue and suggested they talk the next day, despite Jin Baiwan's repeated attempts to get an answer from him. Meanwhile, the masked figure, who was revealed to be Jing Yuan, the master of Nonguple Palace, was being examined by his doctor.
The doctor noted that Jing Yuan's injuries were complex, partly from an external martial art and significantly from backlash caused by his own palm power, indicating his opponent was very familiar with the Puyuan Canon. Jing Yuan confessed that years ago, in his eagerness to dominate the martial arts world, he had killed the Xu family and taken the Puyuan Canon, but it was missing two pages.
He had practiced the incomplete scripture anyway, which had resulted in serious internal problems and recurring backlash, causing him to lose control periodically. The doctor confirmed the backlash was worsening and stated that the last two pages of the Canon were crucial. He added that Jing Yuan's severe meridian injuries could only be healed by Saussurea involucrata, the last specimen of which was believed to be in Taoyuan Valley.
Qu Zheng's dark guard reported that they had found no trace of the attackers from the previous day, including the female assassin, noting their extreme caution over the years. Qu Zheng wasn't surprised but mused that the female assassin's attack on Jin Baiwan seemed driven by personal vengeance, possibly linked to the incident five years ago. He regretted not capturing them to uncover the truth.
He then told his subordinate not to worry, revealing he knew exactly where the masked figure, injured by his palm strike, would go: Taoyuan Valley. His subordinate questioned why he hadn't agreed to go with Jin Baiwan then. Qu Zheng explained he would go, but not under his current identity. His subordinate understood, remarking that the woman Qu Zheng favored seemed to have a difficult fate. The next morning, Jin Baiwan again asked Qu Zheng about going to Taoyuan Valley.
Qu Zheng reiterated the dangers of traveling with her, mentioning past encounters and yesterday's killer, and stated he would have to constantly protect her, calling it inefficient. Jin Baiwan reminded him that she had protected him once, saving him from an attack, and thus he owed her a life debt. Qu Zheng acknowledged this. Jin Baiwan pressed him to repay it by helping her. Qu Zheng again cited his unavoidable family affairs.
He introduced Song Jianshan as his dark guard and clarified that Song Jianshan had saved her yesterday on his orders. Song Jianshan then initiated a staged conversation, urging Qu Zheng, the Lord of Tingqin Garden, to return home immediately for a blind date to fulfill his parents' dying wish for him to marry before the age of twenty-five.
Qu Zheng feigned reluctance and conflict, stating his twenty-fifth birthday was approaching and the matter was urgent, implying he didn't want to make Song Jianshan's duty difficult. Jin Baiwan was surprised that Qu Zheng was being forced into marriage. Song Jianshan emphasized the importance of fulfilling his parents' wishes. Jin Baiwan argued that escorting the Canon was also a major martial arts affair, but Song Jianshan insisted nothing was more important than his Lord's marriage.
Song Jianshan, with deliberate prompting, drew Jin Baiwan into discussing the criteria for choosing a bride, hinting that Jin Baiwan's resistance suggested she might have feelings for Qu Zheng. Jin Baiwan denied this. Song Jianshan expressed mock disappointment at not being able to complete his task easily but then thanked Jin Baiwan for helping him "persuade" Qu Zheng. Song Jianshan and Qu Zheng prepared to depart immediately.
Jin Baiwan, seeing them ready to leave, asked if they were truly going right now. Qu Zheng confirmed he had no choice. Jin Baiwan, sensing his reluctance, impulsively suggested they run away together. Qu Zheng refused, citing his parents' will, saying there was no escaping it unless his marriage was resolved immediately, as he didn't want to trouble Song Jianshan further.
Jin Baiwan pleaded with him not to rush, but Qu Zheng stated they would part ways eventually, perhaps never seeing each other again, which visibly distressed her. Qu Zheng reiterated his gratitude for her saving his life and offered assistance if she ever needed it at Tingqin Garden, then began to leave. Song Jianshan also bid her farewell, echoing the idea of never seeing each other again. Upset, Jin Baiwan chased after the carriage and stopped it.
She directly asked Qu Zheng if getting married was the only way he didn't have to return. He confirmed this. Taking a deep breath, she proposed, "Then marry me." She quickly added that he should just ignore it if he didn't agree. After a moment of silence, Qu Zheng responded, "Okay." Jin Baiwan was utterly stunned by his unexpected acceptance.
Episode 6 Recap
Baiwan was shopping for a wedding gift for her Miss, selecting a pair of mandarin duck jade concentric for eighteen taels. She also admired a peach blossom hair clasp but couldn't afford both with her twenty-six taels. She decided to just buy the jade. Qu Zheng appeared and offered to pay for both items, totaling thirty-two taels.
Baiwan initially refused, explaining she was doing the escort job specifically to earn money for her Miss's gift and that their engagement was merely an "interest exchange," so she couldn't accept his money. Qu Zheng insisted, saying it was an engagement gift and asking her not to refuse. He then placed the hair clasp in her hair, asking her to cherish it like her fox pendant. After leaving the shop, they encountered a fortune-telling stall advertising "lucky marriage draws."
Qu Zheng suggested they try one. The draw read: "The love of a lifetime is unforgettable. It's not an ordinary man. I don't know where the fireflies are. A girl wearing a clasp is my lifelong lover." Qu Zheng pointed out it matched her, mentioning the peach blossom hair clasp she was wearing and the fireflies, which Baiwan excitedly confirmed were her favorite.
As she spoke, Qu Zheng recalled writing a song for her, which he had named "To the End of Time." The fortune teller declared the draw meant they would have a long and happy life together. Baiwan gave Qu Zheng the fortune stick, and he said he would treasure it as her first gift to him. Meanwhile, Jing Yuan's recovery was progressing, but a Saussurea involucrata was essential for his power to fully recover.
His son, Qingyun, sought to visit him during his lockdown period, but Jing Yuan refused to see anyone. However, he did meet with Envoy Xueyue. Envoy Xueyue reported that the Saussurea involucrata was safely stored in the Taoyuan Valley warehouse and would only be brought out in half a month to be given as a wedding gift to the Jin family for the marriage of the young valley master, Yu Linfeng.
Jing Yuan threatened severe consequences if they failed to obtain it after the wedding. An order was then delivered via the Nonuple Token, stating that Envoy Xueyue would represent Jing Yuan at the Taoyuan Valley wedding instead of Qingyun. Qingyun intercepted the subordinate and questioned why the Master, who wouldn't see him, met with Envoy Xueyue, suspecting they were hiding something.
The subordinate claimed the Master wanted Qingyun to oversee the palace during his seclusion, but Qingyun dismissed this, knowing Envoy Xueyue was typically assigned secret assassination tasks. He suspected her trip to Taoyuan Valley was a pretense for another objective. He strictly warned the subordinate not to mention "Chu" again. The subordinate confirmed Envoy Xueyue was heading towards Taoyuan Valley without unusual actions, which Qingyun found suspicious given her history. Qingyun decided to investigate her true purpose himself.
He had a brief memory of meeting a young girl named Chu. He remembered promising to see her once his eyes were cured and bringing her Baiyu pastry from Baiyun Town, vowing to find her no matter where she was. Qu Zheng then took Baiwan to a place with many fireflies, referencing the line from their fortune stick.
He suggested that since they were engaged, they should use more intimate terms, asking her to call him "Zheng" like Song Jianshan did. Baiwan was initially shy but eventually agreed after some teasing from Qu Zheng. Separately, Jin Muqiu was preparing for her interactions with Yu Linfeng.
In her carriage, she secretly read poetry books and music scores, trying to understand Yu Linfeng's interests, particularly his admiration for the poet Xie Lingyun and specific poems like "Land on the isolated island in rivers" and "Go Upstairs." Yu Linfeng frequently sought her out to discuss poetry, calling her his "bosom friend," unaware of her efforts to keep up. Qu Zheng and Baiwan arrived in Taoyuan Town.
Song Jianshan, wanting a peach flower cake, got into an argument and physical altercation with Su Zhuozhuo, who also wanted the cake. Su Zhuozhuo recognized Song Jianshan and, despite his initial reluctance to fight a woman, they clashed, with Su Zhuozhuo using poisoned needles. Song Jianshan ultimately secured the cake. Su Zhuozhuo then saw Baiwan and Qu Zheng together and was visibly surprised.
Upon hearing they were engaged, she was incredulous, questioning how they could be engaged after knowing each other for only a few days. Qu Zheng asserted that feelings couldn't be measured by time and that they were genuinely in love, calling their engagement "natural." Baiwan corroborated this, declaring their love was deep and loyal.
Su Zhuozhuo reminded Baiwan of past incidents where Qu Zheng had mistreated her and questioned why he would choose her, suggesting the engagement was a fake arrangement for investigative purposes. Qu Zheng reiterated their genuine affection, and they explained their presence in Taoyuan Valley was to attend the wedding and for Qu Zheng to formally propose to Jin's Escort Agency head. Su Zhuozhuo was stunned they were truly getting married.
Qu Zheng provocatively offered to send her wedding and baby celebration invitations, calling her a witness to their love, which further angered her. She grabbed the peach flower cake and left. Later, Su Zhuozhuo sought out Song Jianshan to pry about the engagement, believing it was fake. Song Jianshan admitted he knew but teased her, implying their conversation was improper given their current state. Su Zhuozhuo insisted that as a doctor, she was unbothered by such things.
Song Jianshan then began removing his clothes, leading to more banter and a physical struggle. Su Zhuozhuo poisoned him again and demanded the antidote and the truth about the engagement. Song Jianshan revealed that Qu Zheng did not like "her" (Su Zhuozhuo), which she took as confirmation the engagement was fake. She withheld the antidote, and Song Jianshan eventually struck her.
Baiwan began to have doubts, wondering if her past actions had led to the current situation and how she would explain her engagement to her Miss, whom she now referred to as "Zheng." Su Zhuozhuo confronted her again, angered by Baiwan's intimate address for Qu Zheng, now calling him "husband." Baiwan maintained they were genuinely in love and engaged.
Su Zhuozhuo accused Baiwan of using the engagement to endanger Qu Zheng, calling it a false pretense to use him as a shield since the entire martial world was searching for her. She called Baiwan malicious and calculating, suggesting Qu Zheng only felt pity for her injury and implying Baiwan had orchestrated it. Baiwan denied it, but Su Zhuozhuo's words made her question herself, believing she was a burden to Zheng and should leave.
The next morning, Qu Zheng found Baiwan had left, leaving a note stating she would find her own way into Taoyuan Valley to handle matters related to Jin's Escort Agency. Qu Zheng ordered Song Jianshan to find her immediately. Baiwan needed to enter Taoyuan Valley but had no plan. She then saw a recruitment notice for kitchen helpers and decided this was her opportunity to get inside without troubling her Miss.
When Qu Zheng arrived at Taoyuan Valley, he was welcomed and asked about the Jin family's arrival, learning that Yu Linfeng and Miss Jin would arrive in two days and that guests were free to rest. Shortly after, Envoy Xueyue and her junior sister apprentice, Feilian, arrived from Nonuple Palace. They were welcomed, and Zijing, the first disciple of Nonuple Palace, greeted Qu Zheng, recognizing him from the Puyuan Canon incident in Yinxue Village.
Qu Zheng steered the conversation back to the wedding congratulations. Zijing then escorted them to their quarters. Meanwhile, Baiwan and Qingyun had both arrived separately, disguised as temporary kitchen helpers. Steward Wang, the kitchen supervisor, gathered the new helpers and laid down strict rules about not speaking or looking where they shouldn't. Baiwan felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity towards Qingyun amongst the new recruits heading to the kitchen.
Episode 7 Recap
Zi Jing and her companion arrive as temporary workers in Taoyuan Valley. Steward Wang instructs them on the valley's rules, emphasizing discretion, particularly regarding the heavily guarded warehouse. Zi Jing confirms her suspicion that the building they passed was the warehouse and plans to investigate it later. Nearby, Qingyun overhears their conversation and realizes their true objective in the valley is the warehouse. Later, Steward Wang gathers the temporary workers in the kitchen, stressing the importance of hard work.
He notices Qingyun is missing and scolds him upon his eventual arrival, who claims he got lost in the large yard. Steward Wang orders him to work immediately. Seeing the harsh treatment, Jin Baiwan throws some beans on the floor, causing Steward Wang to slip and fall. As others attend to the steward, Jin Baiwan tells Qingyun that Steward Wang deserved it and advises him to stay away from him in the future. Qingyun remains silent.
Jin Baiwan, puzzled by his continuous stare, asks his name. After a moment, he replies, "Qingyun." He explains that her voice sounds like someone he used to know. Jin Baiwan expresses frustration that men keep comparing her to others, but Qingyun clarifies that the person he was thinking of was less talkative than her and jokes that he wasn't actually referring to Jin Baiwan. Qu Zheng finds Jin Baiwan, who is surprised by his swift arrival.
She explains that she had stated clearly in her letter that she had to rely on him to reach Taoyuan Valley but now feels she is unnecessarily troubling him, especially since their marriage contract is not real. Qu Zheng counters that the contract's authenticity matters less than whether everyone believes it. Jin Baiwan expresses concern that his reputation as the Lord of Tingqin Garden would be harmed if people knew he was used.
Qu Zheng claims he doesn't care, but Jin Baiwan insists that she does and feels she cannot repay him. Qu Zheng suggests they have a lifetime together for her to do so. Jin Baiwan cautions against making promises of a lifetime so casually. Qu Zheng acknowledges her point and agrees that since she proposed the engagement, she can also cancel it, but asks her to think carefully.
He states he won't force her, but he admits he enjoys being troubled by her. He tells her to come to him when she has made her decision. Jin Muqiu's father advises her to play the zither to attract Yu Linfeng, saying he favors women skilled in arts. Muqiu is concerned, as she only knows one song, leading her father to joke about her not inheriting her mother's musical talent.
While she plays, Yu Linfeng arrives and compliments her skill, linking it to her family's esteemed background. Muqiu's father mutters to himself about her talent for fibbing. Yu Linfeng proposes they play a duet using his Xiao, suggesting the piece "Autumn Days," to which Muqiu readily agrees. Meanwhile, Song Jianshan asks Qu Zheng about Jin Baiwan's intent to cancel the engagement. Qu Zheng confirms it and suspects it's because he told Su Zhuozhuo about their arrangement. Song Jianshan apologizes.
Qu Zheng laments that Su Zhuozhuo ruined his chances by drugging him and suggests he's destined to be alone. Song Jianshan offers to help persuade Jin Baiwan, but Qu Zheng reminds him their priority in the valley is investigating the snow lotus. He adds that Jin Baiwan's absence is manageable until the young lady from the Jin family arrives, who can then protect her. Qu Zheng believes the engagement will not be cancelled easily.
Yu Linfeng confirms with Jin Muqiu's father that the arrangements for Tongfu Town are complete. He and Muqiu spend time together flying a kite. Muqiu shares her fondness for kites, which her father confirms. Yu Linfeng has a kite he made brought over, and Muqiu writes on it before they successfully fly it. During this, Muqiu stumbles and falls, resulting in an accidental kiss. Both are flustered and apologize, acknowledging the unintentional nature of the act.
Yu Linfeng then tells Muqiu that although they were already engaged, his time with her has shown that she is the woman he has "dreamed of" and he now truly "fancies" her. Muqiu is delighted, and they express mutual appreciation for their relationship. Yu Linfeng takes Jin Muqiu to the town's night market. They try street food and buy sugar figures.
Muqiu notices servants diligently recording things; they explain Yu Linfeng instructed them to note all her preferences to better understand her and avoid displeasing her. Linfeng shares that this is his first time being with someone he loves and asks for her understanding if he makes mistakes. Muqiu tells him he is doing wonderfully. She asks if she can call him "Brother Shu," a name he accepts, and suggests calling her "Qiuer" in return. They visit a bookshop.
Muqiu asks the owner about the sales of "Qiuer's books," which the owner confirms are bestsellers and recommends a popular title. Yu Linfeng immediately denounces the book as "tacky," "filthy," and "frivolous," accusing such novels of fabricating and sensationalizing stories. He specifically mentions a book from two years ago that negatively portrayed him as a playboy. Muqiu silently realizes she wrote that book.
Yu Linfeng advises her, as a lady from a prominent family, to avoid being influenced by such literature. Muqiu tries to defend the books based on their popularity, but Linfeng insists that serious readers disdain them and states he "loathes" them. When Muqiu asks what he would do if the author were present, he emphatically replies he would sever ties, believing that those who appreciate such "vulgar things" are not his kind of people.
Muqiu is visibly upset by his harsh criticism of her secret passion. Jin Baiwan is internally torn about cancelling the engagement, despite telling Song Jianshan she will speak to Qu Zheng herself. Song Jianshan visits her in the kitchen, suggesting she give up the work and return with Qu Zheng. Baiwan is hesitant but insists she will discuss it with Qu Zheng, though she doesn't specify when. Song Jianshan teases her about having feelings for Qu Zheng, which she denies.
He warns her that Qu Zheng is serious and she won't be able to go back on cancelling the engagement. Baiwan maintains she will not regret it. Song Jianshan spots Qu Zheng looking for Baiwan. Baiwan quickly hides. Qu Zheng asks Jianshan if he's seen her, and Jianshan says no, hinting that perhaps Baiwan was looking for Qu Zheng. Qu Zheng says he will find her later.
Baiwan complains to Jianshan that she said she would tell Qu Zheng herself, but not necessarily right away. Jianshan jokes he cannot help them reconcile. As Qu Zheng and Jianshan depart, Baiwan admits to herself that she might indeed like him. An attendant is sent to the kitchen to summon Jin Baiwan, stating Lord Qu wishes to see her. Baiwan goes, anticipating a conversation about their engagement.
However, Qu Zheng introduces her as the pastry cook and begins complaining about the pastries she made, calling them "chewy" and "too hard," claiming Song Jianshan nearly broke a tooth. Baiwan is confused, asking if this is the reason he called her. He confirms it playfully, suggesting she expected him to discuss "that matter." He notes she looks thinner and asks if the kitchen work is difficult.
As she tries to leave, he stops her, asking why she keeps avoiding him and suggesting she will continue to hide until the engagement is resolved. Baiwan denies hiding, reminding him he said the decision was hers and she is waiting to give him her answer. He accuses her of trying to delay. She comments on waiting for her Miss to arrive.
While they are speaking, Su Zhuozhuo approaches Qu Zheng, revealing she knows his marriage contract with Jin Baiwan is fake. She confesses her long-standing feelings for him and admits she secured the investigation task to be close to him, asking him to consider her now. Jin Baiwan overhears this conversation and is hurt. Jin Muqiu and her group arrive in Taoyuan Town.
Her father remarks on the town's prosperity, informing her that she will become the "first lady in charge" upon marrying Yu Linfeng, overseeing a large portion of the valley's assets. Muqiu expresses her wish to simply continue writing her novels. Her father agrees, provided she keeps it secret from Yu Linfeng.
He recalls being astonished by her writing talent in the past and, despite initially urging her to stop writing now that she is marrying, relents when she calls it her only hobby, though he warns that Yu Linfeng will not be as understanding as he is. Suddenly, one of her dowry boxes tips over, scattering numerous books. Servants quickly work to cover and collect them, trying to prevent others from seeing.
Yu Linfeng arrives and expresses surprise at the large number of books, assuming she is a passionate reader. Muqiu and her father appear flustered and start sweating. When Linfeng asks why they are sweating, Muqiu attributes it to nervousness about meeting his parents, confirming his suggestion. Yu Linfeng reassures her, describing his parents as kind and noting that his mother shares her interests in arts, anticipating they will get along well. Muqiu remains anxious about meeting his parents.
News circulates that Steward Wang has beaten Qi. Steward Wang believed Qi was responsible for his fall the previous night, which resulted in a waist injury, and gathered servants to assault him. Qi is seen returning with a bleeding hand from the beating. Jin Baiwan hurries to his side, feeling guilty as she knows her actions caused the fall.
Qi dismisses her concern, but Baiwan insists his injury is her fault because Steward Wang punished him in retaliation for something she did. She promises to find medicine for his hand.
Episode 8 Recap
Su Zhuozhuo called Qu Zheng out and directly stated that she knew his engagement to Jin Baiwan was fake. She confessed her long-standing affection for him and revealed she had actively sought the assignment to investigate the Puyuan Canon case from her father. Expressing her hopes for his consideration, she claimed that Jin Baiwan, who had appeared suddenly, had ulterior motives.
Su Zhuozhuo cited Qu Zheng having knocked Baiwan out, taken her scripture, and even hung her, yet Baiwan still clung to him. She further alleged that Baiwan had cooked for him on the journey and repeatedly asked about him, suggesting Baiwan was infatuated despite being merely a kitchen maid with no right to pursue him. Jin Baiwan, who had been listening nearby, emerged angrily, confronting Su Zhuozhuo for speaking ill of her behind her back.
Su Zhuozhuo insisted she was only telling the truth, claiming she had previously prevented Baiwan from being disrespectful to Qu Zheng. Baiwan retorted, calling her an "anthomaniac" and, in a fit of pique, offered Qu Zheng to Su Zhuozhuo before attempting to leave. Qu Zheng called out to Baiwan, but Su Zhuozhuo tried to stop him, reminding him their engagement was fake. Qu Zheng dismissed her, asking, "So what if it's fake? Maybe I just wanna make it real."
He then warned Su Zhuozhuo that he would not be polite if she continued to treat Miss Jin in such a manner. Qu Zheng followed Jin Baiwan, who turned to question why he wasn't comforting Su Zhuozhuo. Qu Zheng stated that their engagement was still official, making her his fiancée, and he felt obligated to explain himself. Baiwan retorted that she thought he had forgotten their engagement given his unclear relationship with Su Zhuozhuo.
Qu Zheng teasingly accused her of being jealous, which Baiwan denied, claiming she was only angry at Su Zhuozhuo's nonsense. Qu Zheng pressed her, asking if she hadn't cooked for him (she replied someone had to, and she's a cook), hadn't inquired about him from Su Zhuozhuo (she said they were new acquaintances and needed to learn about each other), and hadn't looked at him with "eager eyes."
As she looked at him, he asked what kind of look it was; she described it as natural and poised, without personal feelings, leading him to ask why she avoided his gaze. Baiwan felt her heart race. Qu Zheng then asked if she was picturing moments they had shared, surprising her with his insight. He finally asked if she genuinely had no romantic feelings for him. Baiwan hesitated.
Qu Zheng concluded it was his own wishful thinking and began to speak about their engagement, but before he could finish, news arrived that the Young Master was back with Miss Jin. Baiwan seized the opportunity to escape, leaving Qu Zheng watching her departure with evident emotion. Meanwhile, Jin Muqiu had arrived at Taoyuan Valley with the Young Master, Linfeng.
She expressed concern about meeting his parents and asked about his mother, Lady Yu, who was known to be strict, well-versed in arts, and fond of reading "Commandments for Women." Linfeng confirmed his mother's adherence to rules and mentioned specific regulations within the valley, such as forbidding men and women from speaking alone in wall corners.
Despite their attempts to move, Lady Yu appeared and questioned Linfeng and Miss Jin being together in the corner, reminding Linfeng that he knew the valley's rules. Linfeng admitted his oversight, and Lady Yu invited Miss Jin to the Main Hall. In the Main Hall, Linfeng's parents, Lord Yu and Lady Yu, greeted Jin Muqiu and Master Jin. Lord Yu inquired about their journey and the bandit attacks, and Master Jin thanked Linfeng for protecting Jin Muqiu.
Lady Yu expressed her pleasure at Jin Muqiu joining their family and mentioned the valley's strict regulations, offering to help her become familiar with them. When Jin Muqiu inquired about the rules, Lady Yu had two thick stacks of books brought in, clarifying they were merely the catalogue of rules, with the detailed versions available in the library.
After being assigned a wing-room, Jin Muqiu spoke privately with her father, Master Jin, stating she didn't want to get married and missed Baiwan. Master Jin acknowledged her feelings but reminded her they were already in the valley and couldn't turn back. Jin Muqiu was still distressed when Jin Baiwan arrived, rushing in to find her. They expressed how much they had missed each other.
Qu Zheng followed shortly after, and Master Jin greeted him as the legendary Lord of Tingqin Garden. Qu Zheng requested a private word with Master Jin, leaving the two young women to talk. While Jin Muqiu confided her reluctance about the marriage and missing Baiwan, Qu Zheng spun a tale to Master Jin about having fallen in love with Baiwan at first sight, pledging their love, and signing a marriage contract, emphasizing how Baiwan chose him over wealth.
He claimed Baiwan was currently misunderstanding him and wanted to cancel the engagement, which caused him great distress. Master Jin, treating Baiwan like his own daughter, promised to help convince her. Qu Zheng also advised keeping Baiwan out of public view for now due to her being targeted over the escort issue, which Master Jin agreed with, suggesting they inform Lord Yu.
Meanwhile, Baiwan was telling Jin Muqiu that Qu Zheng was a liar but also a righteous hero who had saved her multiple times. Jin Muqiu, hearing Baiwan's conflicting descriptions, concluded it didn't matter if he was good or bad, but asked if Baiwan, who had initiated the idea of the engagement, actually liked him. Baiwan admitted she didn't know, citing her inexperience with such feelings.
Jin Muqiu, convinced Qu Zheng liked Baiwan, declared she would act as a matchmaker and pulled Baiwan along to confront Qu Zheng, using the pretense of returning his zither. As Jin Muqiu and Baiwan approached Qu Zheng to return the zither and ask about his feelings, they were intercepted by a group of Jianghu individuals demanding to know about Jin Baiwan, the escort, regarding the Puyuan Canon.
The group accused Baiwan of substituting the real scripture under instruction from Jin's Escort Agency. Baiwan defended herself and the agency's reputation, asking for proof. She argued that if she wanted the book, she could have taken it earlier instead of facing dangers and traveling to Hidden Snow Village, where many had seen the fake book. The group insisted they were acting for justice.
Qu Zheng arrived, accompanied by Master Jin, and shielded Baiwan, addressing her as "Lady of the Garden" to the shock of the accusers. He defended Baiwan and Jin's Escort Agency, calling the Jianghu people wolves hiding behind justice. Lord Yu intervened, asking about the commotion. Master Jin introduced Qu Zheng and explained his role in the case.
Given the importance of the canon issue and the presence of various sect leaders for the wedding celebrations, Lord Yu proposed that Qu Zheng reveal the truth during the upcoming Shiming gathering, which was agreed upon. Lord Yu urged everyone to set aside conflicts and enjoy the valley. After the crowd dispersed, Lord Yu invited Qu Zheng and Master Jin to the Main Hall to discuss the canon details further. Qu Zheng agreed, telling Baiwan he would return shortly.
Jin Muqiu told Baiwan she must have endured a lot, but Baiwan downplayed it. Jin Muqiu insisted that Qu Zheng defending her and calling her his wife in front of everyone showed he liked her. Baiwan, however, still thought it was just to help her escape the situation. Jin Muqiu persisted, calling her a "blockhead" and deciding they must ask him directly, using the zither return as an excuse. Jin Muqiu and Baiwan went to find Qu Zheng.
Jin Muqiu called out to him, stating they were returning the zither and wanted to chat. She thanked him for saving Baiwan and the agency's reputation. Qu Zheng accepted her thanks as doing his duty. Jin Muqiu, acting on Baiwan's behalf, directly asked Qu Zheng about his intentions regarding marrying Baiwan, where they would live, and if Baiwan could visit home often.
Baiwan interjected it was a fake engagement, but Jin Muqiu insisted the engagement was fake but the feelings were real, which Qu Zheng seemed to agree with. Jin Muqiu then pressed him, asking if he liked Baiwan. Qu Zheng confirmed he would not deny it. Jin Muqiu was pleased, saying as Baiwan's best friend, she would "reluctantly" agree to their marriage. However, Qu Zheng stated, "This is not appropriate."
He explained that although he had fallen for Baiwan, he had confirmed with her yesterday that she had no romantic feelings for him and only considered him a friend. He felt he could not force her into a marriage she did not desire, comparing their situation to unrequited love before taking his zither back from Baiwan and taking his leave. Jin Muqiu told Baiwan she must have deeply hurt Qu Zheng with her words.
Baiwan dismissed this, calling him a cunning fox who could twist anything to his advantage. Shortly after, a servant informed Jin Muqiu that Lady Yu requested her presence in the courtyard after dinner. Jin Muqiu asked Baiwan to accompany her, but Baiwan, still upset, refused and told her to go alone, instructing Jin Muqiu to figure out why she was angry. Lady Yu met Jin Muqiu, mentioning Linfeng had spoken highly of her education and talents.
Lady Yu explained the tradition of the womenfolk gathering, where the new bride hosts an event for other ladies. She announced that Jin Muqiu would host it, noting it was good practice for becoming the lady of the house. Due to the ongoing issues with the canon case and the upcoming Shiming gathering, Lady Yu decided the womenfolk gathering would be held concurrently. Jin Muqiu expressed her surprise at the short notice.
Linfeng assured her he had prepared a process list. Lady Yu added that she would guide her and mentioned Linfeng said Jin Muqiu was skilled in zither, requesting she play a piece to open the banquet. Jin Muqiu was troubled by the prospect. In a separate matter, a person referred to as Lord Xueyue discussed the possibility of someone named Feilian being alive, someone they thought had died five years ago.
Lord Xueyue intended to prevent her from appearing again and confirmed with an subordinate, Aqi, that Feilian was under his control and would obey. Aqi expressed concern about the powerful figures in Taoyuan Valley and their concurrent mission to steal the Saussurea involucrata. Lord Xueyue stated he would not neglect their mission and planned to use the womenfolk gathering the following day as an opportunity to eliminate "her." Meanwhile, Jin Baiwan encountered Aqi, who appeared injured.
Baiwan apologized for a delay and offered him medicine, though Aqi said he wasn't hurt. Baiwan mentioned she had heard he was connected to Jin's Escort Agency and the canon case, apologizing for keeping her own connection secret. She then gave Aqi a first-class retainer tag that Lady Yu had given her, explaining that with it, Steward Wang would no longer dare bully him.
Aqi asked why she was being kind, and Baiwan replied that he felt like a younger brother to her. Baiwan mentioned she would no longer be in the kitchen and told him to take care before leaving.
Episode 9 Recap
Concerned about keeping up her pretense of being a refined lady for Brother Shu, Jin Muqiu discussed her predicament with Baiwan. Baiwan pointed out that while she could perhaps fake skills like zither and chess, she was more worried about Brother Shu discovering she was the author of the novels he disliked. Jin Muqiu dismissed this, focusing on her immediate problem: being asked by Mrs. Yu to play the zither at the upcoming womenfolk gathering when she didn't know how.
Baiwan suggested they ask Qu Zheng for help, despite Jin Muqiu's reluctance. Baiwan insisted, believing there was a misunderstanding between them and this was an opportunity to clear things up. They went to Qu Zheng, who seemed to be expecting them. He expressed honor at Jin Muqiu seeking zither lessons from him. Jin Muqiu praised his skill, noting the moving quality of his playing. Qu Zheng attributed it to a wounded heart.
When Jin Muqiu asked him to teach her, he agreed. He inquired if she was familiar with the score; she had memorized it but felt something was wrong. Qu Zheng suggested she lacked the "sense of heart-broken" in the tune and playfully asked Baiwan to smile at him. When she refused, he declared that "that" was the sense of heart-broken, implying she had caused his pain. Baiwan was indignant, asking why he taught sorrow instead of something "good."
When he pressed what she meant by "good," she mentioned a tune about not thinking of someone anymore, which Qu Zheng interpreted as her urging him to give up on her. Frustrated, Baiwan stated she didn't want to come and decided to leave. Jin Muqiu encouraged Qu Zheng not to be too sad, confiding in him that she believed Baiwan liked him but hadn't realized it yet. Qu Zheng smiled, resolving to help Baiwan realize her feelings soon.
At the womenfolk gathering, many prominent ladies and heroines had gathered. Mrs. Yu expressed impatience at Jin Muqiu's delay and sent someone to summon her. Su Zhuozhuo arrived and took her seat, glancing at a cup of wine she had prepared for Baiwan, anticipating trouble. Jin Muqiu remained very nervous, trembling as she entered the hall. Baiwan offered constant encouragement.
Jin Muqiu began a prepared speech, hoping to connect with everyone before her marriage to the Young Valley Lord, but faltered when trying to recall a phrase. Needing courage before playing the zither, she reached for a drink. Baiwan, from her seat, suggested a toast to Jin Muqiu before her performance and poured a drink for her. Su Zhuozhuo saw this and was visibly alarmed, but couldn't stop it. After drinking, Jin Muqiu's carefully constructed persona broke down.
She declared that everyone present seemed unwilling to be there and shouldn't have to abide by prescribed rules. She passionately questioned why women were considered low and weak first and why they had to follow so many rules after marriage, unable to pursue their true desires like becoming heroines, tailors, or authors. She urged the other women to pursue their dreams. Mrs. Yu was astonished, and the other guests reacted with surprise.
Jin Muqiu confronted Mrs. Yu, calling her frightening due to her constant anger, and repeatedly insisted on toasting her and urging her to smile more. Baiwan joined Jin Muqiu in this drunken disruption, helping her press Mrs. Yu to drink. During the escalating chaos, Zi Jing, who was present, quietly drew a knife behind Baiwan. At that precise moment, Qingyun, who was observing, saw a distinctive mark on Baiwan's arm.
He reacted with shock, recalling a memory (presumably from his father) of someone named A Chu who had that mark and was said to be dead. Recognizing Baiwan as A Chu, Qingyun immediately intervened, stopping Zi Jing before she could attack Baiwan. Drawn by the disturbance, the men who had been discussing important martial world matters elsewhere in Taoyuan Valley arrived. Qu Zheng found the heavily inebriated Baiwan and carried her away.
The Young Valley Lord escorted the equally drunk Jin Muqiu back to her room. In her drunken state, Jin Muqiu confessed to the Young Valley Lord that she had lied about being a refined lady, listing all the things she disliked and how exhausting the pretense was. She asked if he would still love her if she wasn't a refined lady.
The Young Valley Lord replied that he had never cared whether she was a refined lady, but the public scene had upset his parents, and his immediate concern was resolving the situation for her. As she spoke, Jin Muqiu leaned on his shoulder and fell asleep. Qu Zheng attended to the very drunk Baiwan. He gently probed her about her life before she joined Jin's Escort Agency five years prior, including her identity then.
Baiwan stated she couldn't remember anything about what she did or who she was before that time. Qu Zheng did not push further but looked at a fox pendant he possessed. A flashback sequence showed Qu Zheng giving the same pendant to a woman named A Chu under the moonlight five years earlier, declaring it their love token and asking her to keep it safe. They exchanged vows of eternal love and fidelity under the moon.
The flashback revealed that Qu Zheng waited for A Chu three days after they left a certain valley, but she disappeared. He explained that he had been searching for her for five years and finally found her as the fearless Baiwan working for Jin's Escort Agency, which caused him to change his original plans and follow her.
He mentioned arranging for the transport of the Puyuan Canon by Jin's Escort Agency, noting that the Canon had previously lured a certain person to Yinxue Village, and he expected this person to appear when the warehouse holding the Canon was opened in two days. He observed that Baiwan seemed to be sleeping peacefully, perhaps finding rest after a perilous journey.
Speaking to an unseen associate, Qu Zheng stated he would not tell Baiwan about her past or her identity as A Chu yet, as she was unintentionally involved, and less knowledge was safer for her while the main threat persisted. He planned to reveal everything when the time was right.
Episode 10 Recap
Jin Muqiu woke up feeling the strong odor of alcohol on herself and immediately looked for Baiwan. Elsewhere, Linfeng was still lost in thought, recalling the words Jin Muqiu had spoken to him while drunk the night before. He was interrupted by a subordinate who informed him that the Valley Lord and Madam requested his presence.
The subordinate also reported that Jin Muqiu had woken up and immediately gone to find Lord Qu of Tingqin Garden, which the subordinate considered inappropriate. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Linfeng decided he needed to find her quickly. Baiwan woke up surprised to find herself in a room with Qu Zheng. He told her it was his bedroom and that she had slept in his bed, asking if she remembered anything from the previous night.
He teased her, claiming that in her drunken state she had loudly professed her love for him, expressed a desire to marry him soon, and wished to have nine children together. Baiwan, mortified, vehemently denied saying such things and called him a "cunning fox." He simply responded that he heard what he wanted to hear. Jin Muqiu then arrived loudly, accusing Qu Zheng of taking advantage of Baiwan while she was drunk. Baiwan quickly clarified that nothing inappropriate had happened.
Jin Muqiu, seemingly disappointed by his restraint, made a clumsy remark implying it might have been acceptable if he hadn't been so gentlemanly. Qu Zheng explained that he had brought Baiwan there because Mrs. Yu had become hysterical after the womenfolk gathering and threatened to harm herself, and he feared Lord Yu might blame Baiwan. Just then, Linfeng's subordinates arrived to escort Jin Muqiu to the main hall. Jin Muqiu reluctantly headed to the main hall, feeling panicked.
There, the Valley Lord and Madam were visibly angry, expressing shame at the disruption caused by the gathering. Jin Muqiu's father apologized for his daughter's lack of proper upbringing, but the Valley Lord insisted Jin Muqiu must be punished. Jin Muqiu stepped forward to accept responsibility. However, Linfeng intervened, claiming the fault was his for not being aware of Jin Muqiu's low alcohol tolerance and for not informing his parents sooner.
As her fiancé, he asserted that the responsibility fell on him and volunteered to copy the family rules as punishment. Jin Muqiu felt guilty and offered to copy them herself, but he insisted on taking the punishment he accepted. She asked if he was angry, and he simply told her to rest. Later, Jin Muqiu found him diligently copying the rules. She complained about the many rules in Taoyuan Valley, finding them suffocating and suggesting they should be abolished.
Linfeng became serious, asking if she knew how Taoyuan Valley's century-old foundation was built – through generations of hard work and strict adherence to ancestral rules. He emphasized the principle "no rules, no order," making it clear her remarks were out of line with their traditions. Jin Muqiu apologized for her words and left. Outside, Baiwan worried about Jin Muqiu's situation. Su Zhuozhuo arrived, asking specifically for Qu Zheng.
Baiwan watched them speak privately and misunderstood, thinking Qu Zheng was flirting with Su Zhuozhuo and was a "playboy." Qu Zheng spoke with Su Zhuozhuo about the womenfolk gathering, revealing he knew she was responsible for the strong liquor. Su Zhuozhuo admitted it, explaining it was meant for Baiwan, not Jin Muqiu, and offered to accept punishment. Qu Zheng declined, saying he was compensated by seeing Baiwan's charming drunken state, but warned her not to repeat it.
He added that Baiwan's identity didn't matter to him; he liked her simply because he liked her. Hearing this, Su Zhuozhuo frankly accepted that Qu Zheng liked Baiwan and declared she would find someone better. Later, Jin Muqiu found Baiwan distraught, convinced Linfeng hated her because he knew everything. She pleaded with Baiwan for help. Qu Zheng and Su Zhuozhuo joined them.
Qu Zheng remarked that Baiwan alone might not be sufficient to help Jin Muqiu, and Su Zhuozhuo eagerly offered her assistance. The three decided to stage a fake illness for Jin Muqiu using Su Zhuozhuo's medical knowledge. Baiwan and Qu Zheng began discussing Jin Muqiu's severe fabricated condition loudly enough for Linfeng to overhear. Su Zhuozhuo, disguised as a doctor, applied makeup to Jin Muqiu to make her appear deathly ill. Hearing of her condition, Linfeng rushed to her side.
Baiwan reported that Jin Muqiu had been ill since the gathering, self-isolating and copying rules without food or drink. Su Zhuozhuo, in her doctor persona, gave a dire prognosis. Jin Muqiu, feigning weakness, insisted on finishing the copied rules to avoid angering Linfeng further. Linfeng was deeply distressed by her apparent state and self-blame, calling her a "silly girl" and regretting his strictness. As they hugged, the makeup from Jin Muqiu's face transferred to Linfeng's clothing, revealing the ruse.
When questioned, Su Zhuozhuo explained that Jin Muqiu was genuinely exhausted, claiming the makeup was to cover her sick appearance, and presented the copious copied rules and "Women's Commandments" as evidence of her sincere effort to learn. Qu Zheng then stepped in, dramatically declaring himself Jin Muqiu's "bosom friend," praising her efforts to learn for Linfeng and lamenting her engagement. Linfeng reacted with clear jealousy, asserting Jin Muqiu was his fiancée and telling Qu Zheng to respect their relationship.
Baiwan, anxious about the tension, expressed concern that Qu Zheng had gone too far. Qu Zheng retorted that Linfeng, not Jin Muqiu, should reflect on his behavior, and politely ushered Linfeng away, stating that Jin Muqiu was exhausted and needed rest. Later, Qu Zheng spoke with Baiwan, challenging her perception of him and his character. Baiwan surprised him by calling him "Zheng."
Their conversation was interrupted by the sudden appearance of a person who called Baiwan "Qi" and seemed to recognize her from the past, asking why she didn't remember them. Baiwan was confused, stating the person had told her their name was Qi. Realizing Baiwan had no memory of them, the person attempted to take her away.
Baiwan resisted, believing the person was interested in her because she had helped them in the kitchen, and insisted that Qu Zheng was her husband and the Lord of Tingqin Garden. The person seemed surprised by this and by the revelation she was an escort. The person then left, telling Baiwan to take care of herself.
As the wedding day approached, Jin Muqiu tried on her wedding dress with Baiwan, expressing excitement and concerns about dieting according to Taoyuan Valley rules. She also shared her joy about writing a novel about a cook and a hero, despite Baiwan reminding her that Linfeng disliked novels, vowing to write secretly if needed.
Meanwhile, Qu Zheng spoke with Zi Jing, confirming that the approaching wedding meant the Taoyuan Valley warehouse would open that night, which was the planned time for their operation. He confided in Baiwan that he didn't want to spend his life with anyone but her. That night, the Taoyuan Valley warehouse was attacked. Linfeng rushed to defend it.
The attackers, under orders to steal only the Saussurea involucrata (snow lotus) and avoid killing Linfeng to prevent further complications, located the precious herb, confirmed it was the one Doctor Demon wanted, and made their escape, successfully stealing the Saussurea involucrata despite Linfeng's efforts.
Episode 11 Recap
Following an encounter with Zi Jing and her subordinates, Qu Zheng ceased his pursuit as personnel from Taoyuan Valley, led by the Young Master of Taoyuan Valley, Lin Feng, caught up. Lin Feng immediately ordered the entire valley to be sealed off. Upon hearing the news of the incident, Jin Baiwan and Jin Muqiu became worried about the safety of Qu Zheng and Lin Feng, respectively. A report confirmed that Lin Feng was unharmed.
However, there was no specific information regarding Qu Zheng's condition. Jin Baiwan, anxious, decided to go and check on him herself. Jin Muqiu went to see Lin Feng. His attendant, Jueming, revealed Lin Feng was hoping to remain unwell for a few more days so Jin Muqiu would continue to care for him, much to Lin Feng's embarrassment. Jin Muqiu was touched by this and expressed her deep concern, stating she was terrified something might have happened to him.
Lin Feng acknowledged that the incident was still under investigation and seemed suspicious. He credited Qu Zheng with his rescue, admitting he had misjudged Qu Zheng previously and now saw him as a true gentleman. Lin Feng felt guilty that Jin Muqiu, who had not yet officially married into Taoyuan Valley, was being drawn into these dangerous matters.
Jin Muqiu reassured him that it was not his fault but the evildoers', and promised that as his future wife, she would face any challenges alongside him, mentioning her father and Jin's Escort Agency would also support them. Lin Feng expressed his gratitude, saying he was honored to have her as his wife. Meanwhile, Qu Zheng was attempting to track the individuals who had escaped.
He explained to his companion that the person he had fought was not the main target, and capturing minor culprits would sever their only lead. He planned to use a scent-following finch. Just then, a young woman named Xiaocui arrived with pastries, identifying herself as someone Qu Zheng had previously saved. She had heard he was attacked and helped Lin Feng, so she brought the pastries as a thank you.
Jin Baiwan then appeared, visibly relieved to find Qu Zheng was safe. Qu Zheng, having located the scent, stated he had urgent matters to attend to and had to leave. Jin Baiwan, despite her apparent annoyance, took the pastries from Xiaocui, stating she would give them to her husband. Xiaocui left, and Qu Zheng's companion reacted silently. Following the scent-following finch, Qu Zheng located Zi Jing and her subordinate.
He overheard them discussing needing to urgently return something, referring to Saussurea, but planned to wait until the next morning. Zi Jing indicated she had another task to complete first, hinting it involved someone who, as long as they lived, she could not be at ease, implicitly referring to Jin Baiwan. The conversation revealed they were from the Nonuple Palace and planned to return the Saussurea there. Suddenly, Qingyun, the Young Host of Nonuple Palace, arrived.
He questioned them about their presence and whether the Host had sent them to steal the Saussurea. Zi Jing confirmed they were trusted agents, but Qingyun accused them of being mere tools for the Host's agenda. He challenged them to reveal their identity publicly, which they refused to do. Qingyun demanded to know why they were stealing the Saussurea, threatening to destroy it.
Zi Jing stopped him, explaining the Host needed it to save his life, revealing Qingyun's father was ill. Qingyun took the Saussurea, telling them to seek him out when they understood. Later, Zi Jing met with Qingyun, demanding the Saussurea back. Qingyun offered to return it but first questioned if she had recognized Chu (Jin Baiwan) long ago.
Zi Jing initially feigned ignorance, but Qingyun insisted she was the person from an event five years prior and pressed for details about what happened then and why everyone believed Chu was dead. Zi Jing expressed surprise that he still remembered her after five years. Qingyun directly asked if Jin Baiwan was Chu, which Zi Jing confirmed, adding that she was now Qu Zheng's wife. Qingyun realized Zi Jing had attempted to kill Jin Baiwan at the women's gathering.
He warned Zi Jing not to harm Chu again, stating he would never let her go. Zi Jing, seeing his protectiveness towards Jin Baiwan, became even more resolved to eliminate her. Upon Qu Zheng's return, Jin Baiwan told him she had thrown away the pastries Xiaocui brought. Qu Zheng approved, adding that he liked that she had done so, and noted her jealousy. Jin Baiwan sheepishly admitted she might have been.
As they spoke, Zi Jing, who had been nearby, shot a poisoned needle. Qu Zheng quickly shielded Jin Baiwan with his body and was hit, spitting blood. Jin Baiwan frantically called for help. Su Zhuozhuo arrived and immediately began treating Qu Zheng, stating the poison had reached his heart and she needed to use acupuncture to protect it and force the poison out. Jin Baiwan was distraught, but Qu Zheng reassured her he was fine.
He told her not to scare him, as he couldn't die before she heard him say he liked her. Su Zhuozhuo instructed Jin Baiwan on how to care for him, warning Qu Zheng not to channel his internal energy during recovery or his life would be in danger.
Su Zhuozhuo later informed Jin Baiwan that she had privately informed Lord Yu of the Valley and Head Escort Jin about the poisoning but stressed the need to keep it secret from others, especially the new couple, to avoid disrupting their wedding dinner party. Jin Baiwan felt she was a burden to Qu Zheng. He told her to simply be his wife and he would handle everything else.
When she asked why he cared for her so much, he replied that he would do anything for her because she was herself, regardless of her name or past. Qu Zheng then asked her to promise him one thing: never to leave him again. Jin Baiwan, confused, asked when she had ever left him before, thinking he was delirious from the poison, but she agreed never to leave him.
Qu Zheng reiterated that she had made such a promise before, further confusing Jin Baiwan. Later, in his room, Jin Baiwan woke up in his bed. Qu Zheng was also awake. She felt embarrassed but noted it was Jin Muqiu's wedding day and they shouldn't miss the festivities. Qu Zheng teasingly told her she should get up quickly or she wouldn't be able to leave. He then feigned chest pain, saying he needed medicine to move.
Jin Baiwan asked what kind of medicine he needed, and if she would give it. Qu Zheng admitted he was just joking. During the search for assassins, all rooms in Taoyuan Valley were searched. In Jin Muqiu's room, her personal belongings, including her collection of novels, were discovered. Jin Muqiu, who had been lamenting her weight and fearing she wouldn't fit into her wedding dress, rushed back upon hearing the news.
Lin Feng was trying to contain the situation, ordering his subordinate Jueming not to reveal the discovery to his parents. He confronted Jin Muqiu about the novels, calling them indecent and immoral for someone of her status and future position as Young Mistress of Taoyuan Valley. He insisted these books could not remain and their existence must be kept secret.
Jin Muqiu vehemently defended her work, arguing that many people enjoyed them and questioning why they were considered indecent only in Taoyuan Valley. Lin Feng declared that marrying into Taoyuan Valley required her to abandon these "low-class" writings and promise never to touch or write them again, also keeping her past actions secret, as the valley had strict rules. Jin Muqiu felt he was threatening her and refused to compromise, stating she would never give up her novels.
Their argument escalated, with Jin Muqiu exclaiming she didn't want to marry into his "broken Taoyuan Valley" and who cared if she didn't marry him. The confrontation drew the attention of their parents. Jin Muqiu claimed Lin Feng had bullied her. Lin Feng's father, Lord Yu, demanded an explanation from his son, calling him a fool for causing such a scene after the recent theft and casualties.
Lin Feng apologized and promised the wedding would proceed as planned and that he would apologize to Jin Muqiu, but requested to resolve the matter privately with her. Both fathers agreed. Lord Yu sternly warned Lin Feng not to tarnish the reputation of Taoyuan Valley. Jin Muqiu, despite having been upset, became concerned for Lin Feng after witnessing his father's anger. However, Lin Feng then reiterated the importance of the marriage due to its significance for his family's reputation.
He stated that regardless of her wishes, the wedding had to happen to avoid humiliating both families. He offered a compromise: she could write whatever she wanted and act as she pleased in private, as long as their public image was maintained and the Yu family's prestige was not damaged. Jin Muqiu, hurt, realized that in Lin Feng's eyes, the reputation of Taoyuan Valley was indeed more important than anything, including their relationship and her feelings.
Separately, Qingyun ordered his Nonuple Palace disciples near Taoyuan Town to gather and arrive before the wedding ceremony that night. His subordinate noted his unusual urgency, and Qingyun replied that "she" would be returning soon, hinting at a connection between this mobilization and the wedding or Jin Muqiu's return.
Episode 12 Recap
Jin Muqiu and Lin Feng found themselves alone in their bridal chamber after their wedding ceremony, a stark contrast to the joyful atmosphere elsewhere. Lin Feng suggested they share the cross-cupped wine, but Jin Muqiu declined, stating that their marriage was merely for the sake of their respective families' reputations – Taoyuan Valley's honor for him and Jin's Escort Agency for her. There was no affection between them, she said, rendering the ritual meaningless.
Lin Feng poured and drank the wine alone. On the wall, a kite Jin Muqiu had written on hung as a silent testament to their past relationship, now seeming like a mockery of their current situation. Meanwhile, guests, including Jin Baiwan and Qu Zheng, were enjoying the wedding feast. Jin Baiwan expressed sadness that she would no longer be able to be constantly by Miss Jin Muqiu's side.
Qu Zheng gently reminded her that she was now the lady of his Tingqin Garden, so naturally, things would be different. They spoke of their future together. Zi Jing observed them before rising to offer congratulations to the Valley Master. Suddenly, Qingyun, the Envoy Heiyun and Young Host of Nonuple Palace, arrived unannounced.
He declared that the long-lost eldest disciple of Nonuple Palace, Chu, who disappeared five years ago, had been found in Taoyuan Valley, and identified her as Jin Baiwan. This announcement stunned everyone present, except for Qu Zheng. Qingyun insisted he had proof and presented Zi Jing, the current Envoy Xueyue. Zi Jing explained that every Envoy Xueyue bears a red moon mark on their wrist and showed hers. Jin Baiwan, bewildered, checked her own wrist and found the same mark.
Confusion and murmurs spread through the guests. Qu Zheng intervened, asserting that Jin Baiwan was now a member of his Tingqin Garden and his wife, and a mere mark was not enough to claim her. Qingyun maintained that he was acting under orders from Majesty Jing Yuan and intended to take her back for verification. Qu Zheng firmly refused, stating his wife would not go with him. The disagreement escalated into a fight.
Despite having not fully recovered from being poisoned, Qu Zheng displayed formidable martial art prowess and subdued Qingyun and his followers. In the ensuing chaos, Jin Baiwan was knocked unconscious. Qu Zheng, after a moment to compose himself, took the unconscious Jin Baiwan and left the scene. The guests debated the sudden turn of events, some questioning Qu Zheng's actions, others wondering about Nonuple Palace's true intentions.
Unaware of the dramatic interruption, Jin Muqiu, who had been peeking out from her room, was discovered by Lin Feng. He sharply criticized her for involving herself in matters concerning martial arts figures and for failing to behave as a proper wife should, further deepening the rift between them. Shortly after, a subordinate arrived with news regarding Qu Zheng and Jin Baiwan's whereabouts. Jin Baiwan woke up to find herself in unfamiliar surroundings, which she soon learned was Tingqin Garden.
She asked for Qu Zheng but was told he was busy with pressing matters. She suspected he was avoiding her because he was injured from the fight. Indeed, Qu Zheng was injured, having aggravated his previous poisoning by using his martial art. He spoke with Doctor Su, who confirmed Jin Baiwan was fine but expressed concern about Qu Zheng's condition. Qu Zheng revealed that the investigation confirmed Nonuple Palace had an eldest disciple named Chu who disappeared five years prior.
He admitted that Jin Baiwan was indeed that disciple. He recounted the night his family was massacred. He had searched for the Puyuan Canon and was attacked, but Chu, then the Envoy Xueyue, had saved him. She had identified his attacker as the culprit behind his family's murder before leaving under orders from Majesty Jing Yuan.
Qu Zheng realized his parents had hidden the last two pages of the Puyuan Canon within the Gongche Notation of his Guqin to prevent it from falling into Jing Yuan's hands, whom he now saw as truly malevolent. He believed Jin Baiwan's amnesia likely stemmed from discovering some truth about Jing Yuan five years ago and disobeying his orders, after which she was saved by Jin's Escort Agency.
He felt that the saussurea involucrata he had arranged for Jing Yuan should keep him occupied for a while. Meanwhile, Jing Yuan received the saussurea from a subordinate. Another subordinate then arrived with the news that the long-lost senior sister, Chu, had been found in Taoyuan Valley. Upon hearing this, Jing Yuan reacted violently, seemingly overcome with shock and anger, causing alarm to his attending doctor. Still worried about Qu Zheng, Jin Baiwan decided to find him herself that night.
She located him and gently applied medicine to his wounds. Qu Zheng asked her how she felt about the strange events that transpired at the wedding feast. Jin Baiwan found everything very peculiar, especially the sudden claim that she was Nonuple Palace's eldest disciple. She acknowledged that the mark on her wrist did cause her to feel a moment of doubt.
She admitted that she had previously wished to recover her memories but now felt that since she had forgotten her past and found kind people like Miss Jin Muqiu and those at Jin's Escort Agency, she should focus on living happily every day from now on. Qu Zheng explained that the people from Nonuple Palace had attempted to forcibly take her, and he had fought to prevent it, which had exacerbated his injury.
Jin Baiwan affirmed that she trusted him and the people of Jin's Escort Agency. Qu Zheng teasingly reminded her that she used to call him a "cunning fox" before their engagement. She helped him fasten his clothes. He remarked on her gentle touch and jested that he should have gotten injured sooner if it meant receiving such care from her. As it was late, she prepared to leave, but he insisted on accompanying her back.
Walking with her in the snow, Qu Zheng promised that from now on, he would ensure she lived happily every day, never again troubled by her past, which he described as bloody and ugly.
Episode 13 Recap
The martial arts world's attitude shifted dramatically after the wedding night in Taoyuan Valley, with some suggesting Qu Zheng's actions publicly challenged the Alliance of Martial Arts. Song Jianshan reported that the situation that night was urgent, and Qu Zheng stated he had no regrets about preventing the people from Nonuple Palace from taking Baiwan. Song Jianshan also shared news about the Young Host of Nonuple Palace, Qingyun.
As Qu Zheng suspected, Qingyun and Chu were indeed childhood sweethearts; Qingyun, having been blind since childhood, was always cared for by Chu, leading him to develop deep affection for her. Five years prior, Nonuple Palace announced Chu's disappearance, causing immense pain to the Young Host. Song Jianshan noted the irony that after five years, Qingyun reunited with Chu, but she had now become Qu Zheng's wife, stating Qu Zheng had seized the initiative.
Song Jianshan expressed concern that bringing Miss Jin (Baiwan) back to Tingqin Garden would not be taken lightly by Qingyun, but Qu Zheng declared that no matter who it was, he would not allow anyone from Nonuple Palace to approach Baiwan again. A maid announced that "Mrs." had arrived. Baiwan called out for Qu Zheng, and Song Jianshan offered to handle things, but Baiwan insisted she would care for Qu Zheng.
As Baiwan entered, Qu Zheng instructed Song Jianshan to leave, who did so reluctantly. Inside, Qu Zheng feigned weakness, mentioning his injury still hurt. Noticing he hadn't changed clothes, he suggested calling a maid. Baiwan immediately objected, citing the inappropriateness of calling a maid. Qu Zheng then suggested Song Jianshan, but Baiwan refused even more emphatically, stating that as his wife, she could handle things and he shouldn't bother others.
She insisted that if he needed anything, she would care for him. Qu Zheng then playfully asked how she planned to care for him, and Baiwan paused to think. Elsewhere, Jin Muqiu was informed by a maid that her father, Head Escort Jin, had left early that morning, leaving a letter.
Reading the letter, Jin Muqiu learned her father felt he should return to the Escort Agency now that she was married, and he couldn't bear a tearful farewell, so he left without telling her. He expressed hope that she and Linfeng would support and love each other. Feeling abandoned with both Baiwan and her father gone, Jin Muqiu was very sad to be left alone in Taoyuan Valley.
Her mood lifted slightly when the maid mentioned hearing news about Miss Jin Baiwan. The maid reported that she heard the Lord of Valley and Mrs. discussing Miss Jin Baiwan, calling Qu Zheng a renegade. In the main hall, the Lord of Valley recounted how Qu Zheng had told him about being attacked in the valley the night before the wedding, which they had initially concealed to avoid disrupting the marriage.
However, after Qu Zheng stunned everyone at the wedding to take Baiwan, the Lord of Valley concluded that all the trouble was likely connected to Qu Zheng. He stated that Qu Zheng's actions had not only angered the martial world but also severely impacted Taoyuan Valley, as the martial world now widely believed Tingqin Garden and Jin's Escort Agency were involved in the Puyuan Canon case.
Head Escort Jin, according to the Lord of Valley, left early to avoid implicating Taoyuan Valley further. The Lord of Valley commented that everything would have been resolved if they had simply allowed the people from Nonuple Palace to take Jin Baiwan that night, calling Qu Zheng foolish.
Mrs. then instructed Linfeng to keep a close eye on Miss Jin (Jin Muqiu) these days and prevent her from associating too closely with Jin Baiwan, fearing it could lead to further trouble. Linfeng assured his father he would speak to Qiuer. Distressed by the slander against Baiwan and Qu Zheng, especially since Baiwan's situation was unknown, Jin Muqiu felt she had to do something.
She realized that as Qiu qiuer, she could write Baiwan's true story into novels, ensuring everyone would know Baiwan and Mr Qu were innocent. As she began writing, Linfeng and his subordinate, Jueming, passed by. The subordinate asked if they should warn her as instructed by the Lord. Linfeng stated that Qiuer and Miss Baiwan shared a deep bond that couldn't simply be severed.
He explained that his words to his parents were merely to put their minds at ease, understanding that Jin Muqiu, being alone in a foreign place, must feel lonely and helpless. He then instructed Jueming to have the kitchen prepare two portions of her favorite cakes and send them to her room so she wouldn't be hungry. Finding it too dangerous to write openly, Jin Muqiu frequently moved her location, trying to find privacy for her work.
Later, as Linfeng walked with his mother, his mother remarked on how Miss Jin (Jin Muqiu) seemed calmer recently, engaging in needlework and appearing more dignified, in contrast to her former "crazy" self. Linfeng spotted Jin Muqiu ahead, picking up some dropped papers – her manuscript. He instinctively tried to shield her, but his mother noticed. The mother immediately had Jin Muqiu's novels brought over, declaring such things could not remain in Taoyuan Valley, and ordered Linfeng to burn them.
Jin Muqiu pleaded desperately for them not to burn her hard work. Despite Linfeng's initial hesitation, his mother pressured him, accusing him of shielding her and insisting that Taoyuan Valley's rules must be upheld. Realizing that his mother would not forgive Qiuer if he didn't comply, Linfeng reluctantly burned the manuscripts, silently asking her to be angry at him alone. Jin Muqiu was heartbroken, crying out in despair as her novels turned to ash.
Later, a kind maid tried to comfort her, advising her to endure and compromise, as she would have to live in Taoyuan Valley forever as the Young Master's wife. This sparked a realization in Jin Muqiu: she declared she absolutely could not stay there forever. Her resolve firm, Jin Muqiu left Taoyuan Valley, leaving behind a letter for Linfeng. Jueming delivered the news and the letter to Linfeng, who was copying texts as punishment.
The letter stated that Jin Muqiu was gone, finding the people of Taoyuan Valley to have pushed her too far, and declared their union should be considered a peaceful divorce, making them strangers from then on. The atmosphere with Baiwan and Qu Zheng was starkly different. Baiwan struggled to help Qu Zheng walk, prompting him to joke about his feigned weakness.
Baiwan quickly realized he wasn't truly incapacitated, pointing out his injury was in his chest, not his legs, and he had carried her just the previous night. Qu Zheng playfully admitted he was faking, blaming her for suggesting the walk, and Baiwan affectionately called him a "cunning fox." Baiwan then considered returning to Jin's Escort Agency as she hadn't said goodbye to her father.
Qu Zheng asked if she wanted to leave, and Baiwan clarified that while the Escort Agency was good and she could cook there, she didn't know what to do at Tingqin Garden. Qu Zheng reminded her she was the Lord's wife here, not a cook, and suggested she think about what they could do together. Inspired by the relationship plots in novels, Baiwan asked if she could truly do whatever she wanted, and Qu Zheng agreed.
Baiwan had compiled a list of activities she wanted to try from the novels, and Qu Zheng promised to fulfill them all. They started with the first activity: molding clay figures of each other to represent their appearance in the other's heart as a love token. Baiwan molded a rabbit, while Qu Zheng molded a fox.
Baiwan declared her rabbit was stronger and the fox must listen to it, to which Qu Zheng happily agreed that the cunning fox would only listen to Baiwan. Subordinates observed, surprised to see their Lord playing with clay and smiling so genuinely for the first time in three years, commenting on his infatuation. Baiwan decided to go cook, and the subordinates mused that love seemed to affect even the Lord.
Next, following a novel plot about a wishing tree they couldn't visit, they decided to release a sky lantern. Baiwan made numerous wishes: for Qu Zheng's swift recovery and future safety, for Jin Muqiu and everyone at the Escort Agency to be safe and happy, for everyone at Tingqin Garden to be peaceful and happy, and for the Puyuan Canon case to be cleared, proving Jin's Escort Agency's innocence.
When it was Qu Zheng's turn, he stated he had no wishes, as his heart's desire had already been achieved. Baiwan asked if that wish was her, and he confirmed it was. He explained he preferred to achieve other desires through his own efforts, fearing the gods would find him too greedy.
Baiwan still had one wish: to recover her memory to find her family and potentially introduce them to Qu Zheng, clarifying she wanted to find her family, not remember the person who hurt her. Qu Zheng supported her wish. They then waited for rain, hoping to recreate a romantic initial meeting scene from a novel, but instead, it began to snow.
As they walked in the snow, Baiwan reflected on how unexpectedly happy doing these "silly things" with someone she loved felt, appreciating having someone willing to be silly with her. Qu Zheng agreed, saying it was good to have met her, fulfilling one of his wishes. Baiwan found the snowy walk even more romantic than a rainy one.
Qu Zheng noted the coincidence, mentioning he had reviewed the part of the novel about what happens after a romantic walk, implying a kiss. They shared a sweet kiss in the falling snow.
Episode 14 Recap
Jing Yuan was still in distress. Although the Saussurea involucrata had healed his meridians, he was experiencing intense pain and was unable to use his martial arts. The physician concluded this was a deliberate trap by the person who injured him, designed to lure him into taking the Saussurea involucrata precisely to incapacitate him. Jing Yuan realized this was an attempt to restrict his actions. Jing Yuan then questioned Zi Jing about Chu.
Zi Jing confessed she had known the escort, Jin Baiwan, was Chu but hadn't reported it because Baiwan claimed amnesia and she couldn't confirm her identity. Zi Jing admitted she planned to execute the "traitor" herself to eliminate future problems for Jing Yuan. Jing Yuan was furious, calling her "foolish" for making such a significant decision without authorization as an Envoy Xueyue.
He warned her about the severe consequences but spared her life for now, demanding flawless execution of all future tasks. Jing Yuan then demanded to see Qingyun, but Zi Jing informed him that the Young Host had not returned to the palace. Meanwhile, at Tingqin Garden, Baiwan was talking with Qu Zheng, feeling happy just being with him regardless of how they conducted their relationship.
Suddenly, news arrived that the Young Host of Nonuple Palace, Qingyun, had arrived outside Tingqin Garden with a large number of martial artists. Baiwan knew they were there for her and wanted to confront them herself, but Qu Zheng insisted on handling the situation as she was still injured. Qingyun, representing Nonuple Palace, demanded Qu Zheng hand over their disciple, Chu, whom he identified as Jin Baiwan of Jin's Escort Agency.
Qingyun also accused Qu Zheng of secretly replacing the "Puyuan Canon" and holding Baiwan hostage. Su Zhuozhuo arrived and defended Qu Zheng, vouching for his integrity and stating she was also a protector of the canon. Qu Zheng appeared, explaining Baiwan was his wife through a signed engagement and he was simply bringing her home, asking what was wrong with that.
When Qingyun pointed to a mark on Baiwan as proof of her identity as Chu, Qu Zheng cleverly countered by suggesting someone present, like the second-in-command of the Hong Shao Party who had a similar mark, might be "his" missing family servant, thus undermining Qingyun's evidence. Qingyun escalated the confrontation, threatening violence. Qu Zheng ordered his disciples to protect Su Zhuozhuo and activate the garden's protective array before excusing himself, saying his wife was waiting.
Baiwan was anxious about the situation outside. Qu Zheng and Su Zhuozhuo returned. Qu Zheng expressed gratitude to Su Zhuozhuo, who had helped them handle the situation outside, pointing out the chaos Qu Zheng had caused in Taoyuan Valley led to this confrontation. Su Zhuozhuo deflected his thanks, saying she was merely protecting her patient (Qu Zheng) to maintain her reputation.
She questioned if offending the entire martial arts world for Jin Baiwan was worth it; Qu Zheng affirmed that it was, as long as it was for her. Baiwan watched them enter a room together, appearing distressed. Su Zhuozhuo later emerged and clarified to Baiwan that her discussion with Qu Zheng was strictly business and she was no longer interested in him. She also thanked Baiwan for a past kindness.
Su Zhuozhuo then revealed she had news about Jin Muqiu: she had divorced Yu Linfeng. Baiwan was shocked by this revelation. Meanwhile, in Taoyuan Valley, Yu Linfeng's parents were angry about Jin Muqiu's actions. Yu Linfeng took responsibility, claiming it was his fault, and promised to bring Jin Muqiu back to face the valley's punishment, downplaying the divorce note as childish. His father insisted he honor his promise and deal with the matter properly.
Yu Linfeng then received news that Jin Muqiu had returned to Jin's Escort Agency and was writing novels. He learned with dismay that she was portraying "him" as the villain in a wildly popular novel causing a stir, even driving up the price of paper due to high demand. Yu Linfeng, angry, ordered horses prepared to go to Jin's Escort Agency immediately.
At Jin's Escort Agency, Jin Muqiu was holed up writing, ignoring persistent booksellers outside eager for more installments of her popular "Barefaced Yu Lingfeng" novel. Her father, Head Escort Jin, was worried about her state. Yu Linfeng arrived, immediately stating his intention to take Jin Muqiu back to Taoyuan Valley. Jin Muqiu flatly refused. In defiance, she signed a contract right in front of him, committing to writing novels for ten years, specifically for "Barefaced Yu Linfeng."
She then retreated back into her room. Yu Linfeng followed her. A tense confrontation ensued. Yu Linfeng tried to reason with her but still placed blame on her for the situation. Jin Muqiu angrily stated the divorce was serious and she had no intention of returning to Taoyuan Valley. She revealed she had written her true feelings in the novel.
Yu Linfeng admitted he burned her previous novels, defending his mother's actions as an attempt to train Jin Muqiu to become a proper family matriarch and calling her writing "vulgar" despite its popularity. Jin Muqiu firmly told him she wouldn't stay in Taoyuan Valley any longer and that their marriage was over, asking him to leave. Yu Linfeng left, reflecting on the situation. Shortly after, a scream was heard from Jin Muqiu's room.
Yu Linfeng rushed back, but Jin Muqiu was gone. He informed her father she was missing, and the Head Escort ordered a search. Back at Tingqin Garden, Qingyun was taken away by Zi Jing. Baiwan was joyfully reunited with Jin Muqiu. Baiwan was thrilled to see her and expressed support for the divorce. They discussed Baiwan's identity and the persistent rumors linking her to Nonuple Palace. They realized that if Baiwan could regain her memory, the truth could be known.
They immediately thought of Su Zhuozhuo. Baiwan and Jin Muqiu approached Su Zhuozhuo for help with Baiwan's amnesia. Su Zhuozhuo was initially unwilling to help, flatly refusing. Baiwan tried offering gifts that Qu Zheng had suggested, believing them to be Su Zhuozhuo's favorites, but Su Zhuozhuo rejected them, including live rabbits, revealing she preferred them cooked, like spicy diced rabbit and braised rabbit head. Qu Zheng lamented that his efforts to learn Su Zhuozhuo's tastes for Baiwan's sake had failed.
Jin Muqiu then decided to use her novels as leverage. She gave Su Zhuozhuo the first part of her popular novel. Su Zhuozhuo quickly became engrossed and eagerly demanded the next volume. Jin Muqiu revealed she was the author, Qiu Qiuer, and had the rest. Su Zhuozhuo accused them of trying to blackmail her into treatment, but Jin Muqiu pointed out that Su Zhuozhuo wouldn't be able to resist knowing the ending.
Su Zhuozhuo, hooked, agreed to treat Baiwan in exchange for the remaining novel, striking a deal. Su Zhuozhuo began the treatment. She examined Baiwan, noting extensive old wounds and multiple internal injuries, concluding Baiwan must possess high martial arts skill, which supported the possibility she was the Envoy Xueyue. Su Zhuozhuo warned the treatment would be painful but effective. During the process, Baiwan had a brief, unclear memory flash of seeing people killing.
She wondered if this related to being the First Disciple of Nonuple Palace and why she couldn't remember more clearly. Su Zhuozhuo was surprised that the treatment didn't yield more memories. Later, discussing Baiwan's condition with Su Zhuozhuo, Qu Zheng revealed the true nature of Baiwan's condition: she didn't have amnesia; her memory was sealed by Jing Yuan.
He explained that the red moon mark on the wrists of the Nonuple Palace Envoy Xueyue is actually a seal linked to a poison called Wangyou Poison, which seals both memory and martial arts ability upon activation. He believes Jing Yuan used this to control his Envoys, fearing betrayal, by convincing them the mark was a mere symbol while it was actually a powerful seal.
Qu Zheng recalled that Baiwan had told him five years ago that she believed her master's orders were for the sake of martial arts justice, and he now realized Jing Yuan had been consistently deceiving her. He declared that he would not allow her to regain those painful past memories and endure that heart-wrenching pain again.
Episode 15 Recap
Su Zhuozhuo attempted various remedies, including a large quantity of medicine and strange powders, on Jin Baiwan to help her recover her memory. Baiwan cooperated, even consuming peculiar-tasting food without complaint, but none of the methods seemed to have any effect. Jin Muqiu began to express doubts about Su Zhuozhuo's abilities when a particularly large medicinal pill was presented, but Baiwan remained willing to try anything to regain her memory.
As Baiwan prepared to take the large pill, Qu Zheng suddenly appeared and urged her to stop, stating she shouldn't take any more medicine as the previous attempts were ineffective. Baiwan, however, insisted she had to try, stating she couldn't give up until a remedy worked. She took the pill despite Qu Zheng's warnings. The medicine caused Baiwan to become disoriented and speak nonsensically. Qu Zheng explained that the medicine contained 'drunk herb' and the effects would pass.
During her confusion, Baiwan hallucinated, recalling their supposed 'seven lives' together as fantastical creatures like blue and green bugs with the Goddess of Heaven, and as a Mouse Fairy rescued by her Cat God from the Supreme Lord's censer. Qu Zheng, though concerned, listened with amusement, finding her imaginative tales more entertaining than novels. Once Baiwan sobered up, Qu Zheng expressed his deep worry over her suffering and gently suggested she abandon her efforts to recover her memory.
Baiwan refused, asserting that she no longer wanted to be protected but wished to become strong enough to protect him in return, mentioning that if she regained her memory and found out she was the Nonuple Palace's eldest disciple (Chu/Yifei), she might even be able to shield him from danger and understand whether the palace was an enemy. She pledged she would never leave him, regardless of her past identity, and they sealed it with a pinkie promise.
Su Zhuozhuo was baffled by her lack of success, unable to believe her skills as a renowned doctor were failing. Song Jianshan passed by and made sarcastic remarks about the problem being the disease itself, not the doctor, which led to a heated argument between them. Su Zhuozhuo grew suspicious that Song Jianshan had tampered with her medicine.
Jin Muqiu, influenced by her novel writing, added her own theory: she suspected Qu Zheng was secretly hindering Baiwan's recovery because he feared that if Baiwan regained her memory, she would reunite with the Nonuple Palace's Young Host, Qingyun (whom she referred to as 'that Qi' who sought Baiwan in Taoyuan Valley and even fought Qu Zheng at Tingqin Garden), leaving Qu Zheng behind. To test this suspicion, they asked Baiwan to have Qu Zheng oversee the medicine brewing.
When Qu Zheng added a strange substance (which turned out to be sugar) to the medicine, Su Zhuozhuo and Jin Muqiu interpreted this as proof he was sabotaging the process. Feeling misunderstood and hurt by their accusations, Qu Zheng left them. Meanwhile, at the Nonguple Palace, Jing Yuan severely punished Qingyun for leaving the palace without permission and for his failed unauthorized attack on Tingqin Garden. Qingyun defended himself by stating he went to find Chu.
Jing Yuan was furious, calling Chu a traitor who had betrayed him and the palace five years prior, demanding to know why Qingyun hadn't killed her upon finding her. Qingyun argued that Chu, adopted and raised alongside him in the palace, couldn't be a traitor and insisted there must be a misunderstanding. He even accused Jing Yuan of causing her disappearance and memory loss.
Enraged by Qingyun's defiance and defense of Chu, Jing Yuan ordered Qingyun taken to the dungeon and cruelly tortured. Qingyun walked to his imprisonment on his own accord. Feeling guilty for suspecting Qu Zheng, Baiwan wanted to apologize but found him withdrawn. Song Jianshan, observing their tension, subtly reminded Baiwan that Qu Zheng's birthday was in five days and he was currently feeling sad and misunderstood.
He then playfully coached Baiwan on ways to coax Qu Zheng, suggesting techniques like repeating the last syllable of her words, pretending to remove a bug from his hand, and gently blowing in his ear. Baiwan awkwardly attempted these methods. Qu Zheng was visibly affected, eventually smiling and telling her he was never truly angry with her. Baiwan took this as an opportunity to discuss her desire to recover her memory again.
Qu Zheng reiterated his concern, fearing she would encounter painful memories or discover a past self she might have wanted to abandon. Baiwan, however, firmly stated that her memories, regardless of their nature, were a part of her identity and she needed them to solve the current mysteries and understand who she was, believing one shouldn't shy away from facing oneself. She assured him that recovering her memory wouldn't change her feelings for him and asked for his trust.
Yu Lingfeng, the Young Master of Taoyuan Valley, having learned that Jin Muqiu was taken by Qu Zheng's men, arrived at Tingqin Garden to retrieve her. He found the entrance blocked by an array, preventing his entry. He believed Qu Zheng had kidnapped her to threaten the martial schools. Qu Zheng appeared and offered to arrange a carriage for Jin Muqiu and Yu Lingfeng to return.
However, Jin Muqiu, present during the conversation, stated clearly that she had decided not to return to Taoyuan Valley due to its restrictive rules. Qu Zheng conveyed this to Yu Lingfeng, adding that Jin Muqiu was well in the garden. To further prove she wasn't held against her will, Qu Zheng presented Yu Lingfeng with Jin Muqiu's latest novel, recently published, arguing she couldn't have written or released it if she were kidnapped.
He pointed out a new character in the novel, a hero named Qu Zheng who fights a 'shameless guy named Yu Lingfeng,' suggesting this indicated she wasn't being mistreated. Yu Lingfeng remained unconvinced, accusing Qu Zheng of forcing her to write it and threatening to destroy Tingqin Garden if Jin Muqiu wasn't released. Qu Zheng calmly stated he had delivered Jin Muqiu's message and left Yu Lingfeng to his own devices.
Refusing to leave without Jin Muqiu, Yu Lingfeng stayed outside the array. He resolved to study her novel, convinced that Jin Muqiu, being clever, must have embedded a secret message or clue within the text to signal him for help. Poring over the novel, he focused on a passage describing the 'shameless Yu Lingfeng' getting his just deserts.
He noticed that the last character of each sentence in the passage, when read together, formed the message: "Wait for me, and I will go out." Despite his subordinate's skepticism that this was just a coincidence or Jin Muqiu expressing frustration with him, Yu Lingfeng became certain it was a coded signal from his wife, strengthening his resolve to rescue her.
Suffering torture in the dungeon, Qingyun was haunted by memories of Chu, recalling moments from their past together, including training when she was blind and discussing curing her eyes and seeing the world together. Zi Jing visited him, finding him still calling out for Chu.
Qingyun confronted Zi Jing, asking if she knew Chu was destined for death when he helped prove her identity at Taoyuan Valley and accusing Zi Jing of potentially framing Chu out of jealousy, as there could only be one Snow Moon Envoy and Zi Jing's abilities were inferior to Chu's. Zi Jing denied framing her.
Qingyun, stating he would find out the truth, demanded Zi Jing inform Jing Yuan that he wished to see him, marking a shift in his approach. When Qingyun met with Jing Yuan, he adopted a submissive demeanor, apologizing for his past disobedience and stating his life belonged to his father. Jing Yuan was skeptical, suspecting Qingyun was merely seeking release to find Chu, the perceived traitor.
Qingyun confirmed his desire to find Chu but reframed it as acting in Jing Yuan's best interest. He argued that Chu knew too many palace secrets and couldn't be allowed to remain outside, regardless of whether her amnesia was real. He promised to bring her back for Jing Yuan to investigate personally and even offered to kill her himself if she was found to be a traitor. Jing Yuan remained unconvinced given Qingyun's previous failure at Tingqin Garden.
Qingyun asserted his confidence this time, claiming he knew the true protector of the item Jing Yuan sought was Qu Zheng, thereby creating a new narrative that implicated Qu Zheng and potentially offering Jing Yuan a new target, in exchange for his own freedom and opportunity to find Chu.
Episode 16 Recap
Scouts confirmed that all the people from Nonuple Palace had been recalled by Jing Yuan using the Nonuple Token. Song Jianshan suggested they could relax, but Qu Zheng felt Jing Yuan might have discovered something, especially since he had been with Jin Baiwan the entire journey. Qu Zheng revealed he now knew Baiwan's identity as a member of Nonuple Palace and stated he must prevent her from falling back into Jing Yuan's hands, especially since she had lost her memory.
He decided they should get married quickly, as becoming the official Mrs. Qu of Tingqin Garden would make her untouchable by Nonuple Palace. He instructed Mr Wang to start preparing for the wedding. Song Jianshan then mentioned he had "accidentally" revealed Qu Zheng's birthday to Baiwan, implying she was likely busy preparing a gift, which Qu Zheng thought was good. Meanwhile, Baiwan was discussing Qu Zheng's upcoming birthday with Jin Muqiu and Su Zhuozhuo.
Baiwan was excited about an idea she had to celebrate his birthday, since he couldn't host a large banquet due to those he had offended because of her. Su Zhuozhuo showed them her family's secret recipe face cream, claiming it would make one not age a day. As Qu Zheng and Song Jianshan continued discussing wedding preparations, Baiwan arrived. Song Jianshan quickly covered their discussion by claiming Qu Zheng was teaching him to write.
Baiwan, who had heard the outsiders were gone, asked if she could go to the temple fair the next night. Qu Zheng readily agreed. At the same time, Qingyun and his men positioned themselves at the largest grain store in Qingyi Town, knowing Tingqin Garden purchased supplies there. When a butler from Tingqin Garden arrived, he ordered a large quantity of grain, oil, red dates, longans, and lotus seeds, also asking for the best jewelry artisan in town.
The store attendant remarked that these items suggested a happy event, like a wedding. Qingyun, overhearing this, reacted intensely to the news of a wedding involving someone from Tingqin Garden. The following night, Baiwan took Qu Zheng, who had his eyes covered, away from the temple fair area to show him a surprise she had prepared. Unbeknownst to them, Qingyun's men had located them and were monitoring their movements, reporting back to Qingyun that they had found Jin Baiwan.
Baiwan presented Qu Zheng with 24 gifts, one for each year of his life she had missed, expressing her wish to make up for not being there. She sweetly described gifts for different ages and spoke of wanting to take care of and protect him, just as he had done for her. Qu Zheng was deeply touched, telling her that her presence alone was the best gift.
Baiwan then realized she had forgotten the most important gift and insisted on going to get it quickly, as it was nearby. Qu Zheng, concerned for her safety, offered to accompany her, but she declined, wanting to keep it a surprise. He sent his man, Aqi, to follow her discreetly. However, Aqi was intercepted by Qingyun's man, allowing Qingyun to confront and seize Baiwan.
Back at the temple fair area, Jin Muqiu, Su Zhuozhuo, and Song Jianshan were playfully arguing about novels and drinks when Aqi returned in distress, reporting that Baiwan had been taken away by people from Nonuple Palace. Everyone was worried and split up to search. Jin Muqiu encountered Yu Linfeng, who had been looking for Su Zhuozhuo (referred to as Qiuqiu in his novels) through her published works.
Yu Linfeng tried to convince Jin Muqiu to return to Taoyuan Valley with him, promising to send people to search for Baiwan from there. Jin Muqiu refused, adamant that waiting would be too late, and left to search on her own. Recognizing her determination to find Baiwan, Yu Linfeng followed her. Meanwhile, Song Jianshan reported to Qu Zheng that Baiwan was taken by the Young Host of Nonuple Palace, and their tracks led towards Wanlan Town.
Qu Zheng immediately set out for Wanlan Town, instructing Song Jianshan to bring disciples to join him. Jin Muqiu joined Song Jianshan and the disciples heading to Wanlan Town. Qingyun took Baiwan to a place where Xiaocui was waiting. Baiwan resisted and demanded to be released, insisting her husband was waiting. Qingyun told her Qu Zheng was a liar and that she should trust him instead.
He claimed Qu Zheng was the mastermind behind everything and the true person who had hired the escort for the Puyuan Canon. Baiwan refused to believe him, accusing him of lying and attempting to use her against Qu Zheng. Qingyun told her that someone could prove his words and brought her to Xiaocui. Xiaocui confirmed that Qu Zheng had saved her life, describing how Xing Laoliu had been beating her.
She recounted how Qu Zheng had appeared and given Xing Laoliu the Puyuan Canon, instructing him to deliver it to Jin's Escort Agency for a man named Qing Songke, and later Qu Zheng arrested Xing Laoliu and rescued them. Baiwan remained unconvinced, suspecting Xiaocui was sent by Qingyun to frame Qu Zheng. She declared she would only believe it if Qu Zheng told her himself. At that moment, Qu Zheng arrived and quickly defeated Qingyun.
He went to take Baiwan away, but she confronted him, asking if he was indeed the true person who had hired the escort for the Puyuan Canon and if everything had been a setup, if he had been lying to her all along. Qu Zheng remained silent. Seeing his lack of denial, Baiwan was heartbroken, telling him to leave and that she never wanted to see him again. Despite her distress and rejection, Qu Zheng knocked her unconscious, prioritizing her safety above all else, accepting her blame and resentment as long as he could ensure she was safe.
Episode 17 Recap
Holding the unconscious Baiwan, Qu Zheng told her he only wanted her to be safe. A disciple asked if Qu Zheng was alright, and Qu Zheng ordered a carriage to escort "Mrs Qu" back to Tingqin Garden. News quickly spread that Lord Qu had brought "Mrs Qu" back and that she was merely in a temporary coma. Yu, the Young Lord of Taoyuan Valley, and Jin Muqiu heard the news.
Yu told Jin Muqiu that since Baiwan was stable, she should return to Taoyuan Valley with them. Jin Muqiu refused, stating she needed to go to Tingqin Garden to care for Baiwan while she was unconscious. Yu pressed her, offering alternative destinations like Jin's Escort Agency or traveling, promising that no one in Taoyuan Valley would blame her upon her return. Jin Muqiu replied that Yu still didn't understand why she left.
She thanked "Brother Shu" (Yu) for his care but explained that her fear was not the blame itself, but Yu's lack of understanding. Yu was left looking confused as Jin Muqiu departed. Qu Zheng and Song Jianshan were discussing a wedding dress. Due to the sudden events of the previous day, they agreed it wouldn't be needed for the time being and should be stored away.
Song Jianshan expressed concern about Qu Zheng's lingering poison and suggested Su Zhuozhuo examine him. Qu Zheng worried that if Su Zhuozhuo knew, Baiwan would find out. Song Jianshan pointed out that Baiwan already knew about the matter involving Xing Laoliu. Just then, Baiwan arrived, demanding to know how long they intended to keep secrets from her. Song Jianshan left. Baiwan directly confronted Qu Zheng, asking if he was responsible for the events concerning the Canon and Xing Laoliu.
Qu Zheng admitted he was. Baiwan then accused him of manipulating her from the start, orchestrating their engagement and trip to Taoyuan Valley because he knew she was a disciple of Nonguple Palace and wanted to prevent her memory recovery to further his own goals. Qu Zheng denied ever intending to involve her in conspiracies and asked if she would believe him if he said his feelings for her had never changed.
Baiwan declared she would never believe anything he said again, regretting trusting him so completely and feeling foolish for not realizing he was the one plotting against her. Qu Zheng asserted that while anyone else in the world could disbelieve him, she should not.
He explained that he couldn't tell her the truth of five years ago because it was entangled with memories she shouldn't have, and he couldn't bear for her to know and hate herself, preferring that she resent him instead. At the Disciplining Hall within Nonguple Palace, Jing Yuan berated Qingyun for failing to retrieve Chu as promised.
Qingyun addressed Jing Yuan as "Father," but Jing Yuan sternly corrected him, reminding him they were in the formal setting of the Disciplining Hall. Qingyun accepted full responsibility and requested to receive additional whips. Jing Yuan questioned if Qingyun's death would achieve his objectives and stated this was Qingyun's last chance after a previous failure. A servant announced that Qingyun had received two hundred whips and should go recuperate.
Zi Jing approached the injured Qingyun, offering support and mentioning she had arranged for a doctor. Qingyun dismissively told her he didn't need her sympathy and that her concern meant nothing to him. Zi Jing questioned if the two hundred whips were worth it for Chu, who had lost her memory, was with Qu Zheng, and would never return. Qingyun insisted Chu was merely amnesiac and would come back when she remembered.
Zi Jing then suggested Qingyun knew he couldn't defeat Qu Zheng and had returned to Nonguple Palace to seek Jing Yuan's help, despite the expected punishment. Qingyun warned her not to speak such words again, emphasizing that Chu was unique and no one else could compare. Meanwhile, prominent figures from various martial arts sects gathered at Nonguple Palace.
They discussed Qu Zheng's recent actions, including attacking guests at the Taoyuan Valley wedding and harming people outside Tingqin Garden, deeming it a provocation to the martial arts alliance. They suspected him of being behind the Puyuan Canon incident, noting that Jin Baiwan, whom he took, was rumored to be a Nonguple Palace disciple. Jing Yuan confirmed Nonguple Palace was investigating. The discussion then turned to the tri-annual Wuhu Meeting.
Despite the issues with Qu Zheng, they agreed not to delay the significant martial arts event and, given the current state of affairs, proposed and decided that Nonguple Palace would host the Wuhu Meeting this year. Baiwan was determined to leave Tingqin Garden and confronted Qu Zheng again. She asserted he couldn't keep her there if she was set on leaving.
Qu Zheng countered that if he was determined not to let her go, even if it meant risking losing her forever, he would keep her. Baiwan accused him of acting and reiterated her complete distrust, stating he was unworthy of talking about affection. She picked up the pieces of the peach blossom hairpin they had shared, calling herself foolish for ever believing it represented his true feelings, and declared its breaking signified the end of their bond.
Qu Zheng explained his actions stemmed from fear – fear of not being able to protect her outside Tingqin Garden and fear of losing her again – but admitted her lack of trust was unbearable. Elsewhere, Jin Muqiu discussed their predicament with Baiwan, noting that the entire garden was heavily guarded and Qu Zheng seemed intent on trapping them. Baiwan vowed to escape.
Jin Muqiu mentioned overhearing servants talking about the upcoming Wuhu Meeting and suggested it might be their opportunity. Su Zhuozhuo arrived excitedly, having received a letter from her father regarding Baiwan's memory condition. Her father's reply confirmed that Baiwan's memory wasn't lost but sealed by a special spell, a technique tied to the mark on her hand which also suppressed her martial arts abilities. The letter stated that only the precious Lingyao Herb could break this seal.
Jin Muqiu then recalled hearing from disciples that the grand prize at the upcoming Wuhu Meeting was indeed Lingyao Herb. Realizing this was their chance, they resolved to find a way to attend the meeting. Song Jianshan reported to Qu Zheng that Baiwan had again attempted to leave and had slightly injured two guarding disciples in the process.
Qu Zheng dismissed the disciples' injuries, stating that as long as Baiwan was safe, it was acceptable, and that she must not be allowed to leave Tingqin Garden, even if it resulted in more casualties. Song Jianshan was aghast, asking if Qu Zheng had lost his mind and truly intended to imprison Baiwan forever. Qu Zheng responded that he would, if it meant keeping her by his side permanently.
Song Jianshan vehemently criticized Qu Zheng, stating that his current behavior would drive anyone away and accusing him of being fundamentally wrong from the beginning. He argued that Qu Zheng had hidden everything from Baiwan – the events of five years ago, the truth about Jing Yuan, and her real identity – and demanded to know why he didn't tell her, especially now that she already knew some things.
Song Jianshan argued that even if discovering her past and the truth about being manipulated by Jing Yuan would be painful, it was still her true identity, and Qu Zheng had no right to control her life like Jing Yuan did. Qu Zheng denied manipulating her. Song Jianshan countered by asking why he didn't tell her the truth then, particularly since she no longer trusted him.
Song Jianshan insisted that Qu Zheng must respect Baiwan's desire to reclaim her past, as he could not stop her. Song Jianshan's impassioned words visibly affected Qu Zheng. While walking, Baiwan noticed servants carrying red fabric. Her curiosity prompted her to investigate, and she found a beautiful wedding dress. Seeing the dress triggered a strong emotional reaction, causing tears to stream down her face as memories surfaced.
Qu Zheng appeared and told her he had ordered the dress put away and that it was never connected to any schemes. Baiwan countered that it shouldn't exist, that their relationship was flawed from the start, and their engagement should be broken. She told him that the more he tried to keep her, the more she would hate him.
Qu Zheng, influenced by Song Jianshan's earlier words, agreed to let her leave, stating there was no point in keeping her if her heart was not with him. As she prepared to depart, Baiwan went back to gather the scattered pieces of the broken peach blossom hairpin. Qu Zheng watched her, his heart filled with pain.
The following morning, Baiwan, Jin Muqiu, and Su Zhuozhuo headed towards the exit of Tingqin Garden, noting that the protective maze seemed to have disappeared, indicating they were free to leave. A disciple stopped them, reminding them of Qu Zheng's condition: they must keep silent about everything they learned inside Tingqin Garden. Su Zhuozhuo defiantly accepted the condition to ensure their safe departure but warned the disciple not to make threats.
Both she and Jin Muqiu promised to abide by the silence but also told the disciple to relay a message to Qu Zheng: he should never bother Baiwan again, calling him shameless. The disciple asked Baiwan if she regretted leaving and if she wished to return, stating the gate remained open. Baiwan offered no response and walked away with her companions.
Soon after they left, Qu Zheng told Song Jianshan that he had finally come to understand and admitted Song Jianshan was right. He confessed he was wrong to prevent Baiwan from seeking her past and wrong to force her to stay if she wanted to leave. Song Jianshan asked what their next course of action was. Qu Zheng instructed him to prepare for their own departure, stating they would also be going to the Wuhu Meeting.
Song Jianshan noted that Lingyao Herb was the grand prize and questioned if the meeting was a trap intended for Baiwan or Qu Zheng. Qu Zheng confirmed it was a trap, but stated he could not allow Baiwan to go there alone, knowing the danger.
Episode 18 Recap
Yu Linfeng stood determinedly, waiting for Jin Muqiu, despite his attendant Jueming's suggestion that it was useless and they should return to town to rest. Yu Linfeng insisted he would wait right there until she emerged from Tingqin Garden. Meanwhile, Jin Muqiu, Baiwan, and Su Zhuozhuo were traveling. Baiwan expressed her disillusionment with Qu Zheng, now focused solely on obtaining the Lingyao Herb. Su Zhuozhuo and Jin Muqiu assured her they would support her.
Baiwan felt retrieving the herb to regain her memory was her burden alone and didn't want to trouble them. Su Zhuozhuo, a skilled doctor, insisted it was her responsibility to cure Baiwan's amnesia and would be ashamed if she failed. Jin Muqiu added that Baiwan's affairs were their affairs and they would help. They playfully warned Baiwan not to say such disheartening things again.
Su Zhuozhuo suggested Baiwan might be a Nonuple Palace disciple and could seek their help, but Baiwan refused, stating she could no longer easily trust anyone and must rely on their combined effort to get the herb. Yu Linfeng finally encountered the three women. Jueming chided Jin Muqiu for her lack of compassion after Yu Linfeng had waited three days and nights without sleep. Yu Linfeng disregarded Jueming, focused only on Jin Muqiu's presence.
He told her he finally understood the real reason she left Taoyuan Valley, acknowledging her kind and simple nature had led to conflict with his mother, and promised to mediate going forward. Jin Muqiu reiterated that he still didn't understand. Yu Linfeng grew frustrated that she refused to communicate. Su Zhuozhuo and Baiwan stepped forward, telling Yu Linfeng not to raise his voice and that the matter was a family affair.
Yu Linfeng stated he would take responsibility for everything if she returned with him. Su Zhuozhuo countered that Yu Linfeng was in the wrong first and shouldn't speak to Jin Muqiu like that. Jueming defended Yu Linfeng, but Baiwan interjected sharply, recounting how Jin Muqiu had traveled far to marry into the Yu family only to be mistreated by Yu Linfeng and his mother.
She detailed Jin Muqiu's efforts to learn rules, poetry, and scriptures to please them, asking if they wanted to turn her into a mere puppet. Baiwan also mentioned them burning Jin Muqiu's beloved novels, calling it abuse, not just bullying. They urged Jin Muqiu to ignore him and walked away. Yu Linfeng then asked Jueming if everything they said was true and if he was truly at fault.
Jueming insisted Yu Linfeng was right, stating that rules must be followed and Jin Muqiu was in the wrong according to those rules. But Yu Linfeng reflected that as her husband, not knowing she was unhappy every day "was" his mistake. Jueming pointed out Jin Muqiu was determined to seek a divorce and suggested returning, but Yu Linfeng resolved to pursue her further precisely because he felt responsible for his errors.
The trio decided to stop for a rest, with Yu Linfeng and Jueming following closely. Yu Linfeng approached their table at a teahouse, stating he had sincerely reflected on their words and acknowledged his past mistakes. He apologized and offered to escort them, citing the danger of the road. They rejected his offer of protection and escort. As they ordered, a waiter presented an array of delicate cakes.
The women were surprised to find not only general fine pastries but specifically their favorites, along with specific teas and snacks they requested, in such a remote location. They suspected someone had made preparations for them beforehand. Despite recognizing Yu Linfeng's apparent sincerity, they decided to continue ignoring him. Meanwhile, at the Nonuple Palace, Qingyun was visited by Zi Jing, who conveyed Jing Yuan's order for him to represent the palace at the Battle of Martial Arts by the Lake.
Qingyun expressed surprise, feeling unsuitable as a punished individual, suggesting the task belonged to the favored Envoy Xueyue. Zi Jing explained that Jing Yuan placed great hope in Qingyun to win the champion prize, while she had separate duties. When Qingyun inquired about the prize, Zi Jing revealed it was the Lingyao Herb. Qingyun immediately realized the herb could cure Chu and restore her memory.
After delivering the message, Zi Jing turned to leave, but Qingyun stopped her, asking if she knew about the Wangyou Poison afflicting Chu. Zi Jing confirmed she knew and revealed that Jing Yuan had also poisoned Qingyun to ensure his obedience, threatening memory loss if he disobeyed.
Qingyun questioned her loyalty given this, but Zi Jing stated her life was saved by Jing Yuan, and she must obey his commands, adding that this was the fundamental difference between her and Chu. Zi Jing reported back to Jing Yuan, confirming Qingyun had accepted the mission, motivated by the prospect of helping Chu. Jing Yuan perceived Zi Jing's curiosity regarding his decision to potentially restore Chu's memory.
He explained that Chu knew too much, and her memory returning could be problematic, hinting that the Lingyao Herb was not truly intended for her. Jing Yuan then revealed his true plan: he would arrange for Zi Jing to serve as a judge in the competition, instructing her to closely monitor Qu Zheng and, crucially, ensure he advanced to the final round.
Zi Jing noted this would inevitably lead to a confrontation between Qu Zheng and Qingyun, which Jing Yuan confirmed was precisely the outcome he desired. Later, as the trio continued their journey after leaving the teahouse, they encountered thieves. Yu Linfeng intervened and helped them recover Baiwan's stolen bag. Baiwan anxiously checked for a hair clasp within the bag. After being rescued, Baiwan agreed to let Yu Linfeng escort them.
Walking on, Su Zhuozhuo observed Baiwan's injured wrist from the scuffle, mentioning her recent argument with Qu Zheng seemingly tied to a hair clasp. Baiwan denied the connection. Su Zhuozhuo expressed concern about Baiwan's ability to compete in the Battle of Martial Arts by the Lake with her injury and limited combat skills, especially as Su Zhuozhuo herself would serve as the event's physician and couldn't compete.
Su Zhuozhuo admitted that she had agreed to let Yu Linfeng accompany them precisely because she hoped he would participate and help them win the Lingyao Herb. She suggested Jin Muqiu try to persuade him, but Jin Muqiu refused. Separately, Jueming reported back to Yu Linfeng, admitting to eavesdropping on the women's conversation. Yu Linfeng initially questioned this, but relented when Jueming revealed the information concerned Jin Muqiu.
Jueming reported that the women were heading to the Battle of Martial Arts by the Lake to help Baiwan win the Lingyao Herb and planned to ask Yu Linfeng to compete on their behalf, as they felt unable to win alone. Jueming suggested Yu Linfeng use this opportunity to lure Jin Muqiu back to Taoyuan Valley. Yu Linfeng called this ungentlemanly, but Jueming pressed him to choose between upholding his principles and reclaiming his wife.
Jin Muqiu approached Yu Linfeng while he was waiting. She thanked him for helping Baiwan, to which he replied it was his duty as Baiwan was her friend. He mentioned arranging a carriage for their journey, making it safer. Jin Muqiu seemed hesitant to speak. Yu Linfeng encouraged her and stated he would grant her any wish. Jin Muqiu thanked him for the preparations at the teahouse, which Yu Linfeng seemed unaware of.
Regardless, she told him she would do her best to fulfill his desires. Yu Linfeng advised her to get an early rest because of the cool night air. They said goodnight and parted ways. Jueming immediately asked Jin Muqiu if she had made her request. She admitted she hadn't, fearing Baiwan would object and feeling embarrassed about the possibility of failing even the knockout stage. Back at the inn, Baiwan noticed a small notch missing from her hairpin.
A waiter then arrived at her room, bringing medicine specifically for her sprained wrist, claiming it was from the shopkeeper's desire for guests to feel at home. Baiwan found it peculiar that such personalized service and specific items (referencing the earlier teahouse incident) were available in such a remote location and wondered who was behind it. Elsewhere, a subordinate reported to Qu Zheng that the thieves who attacked Jin Muqiu's group had been apprehended and sent back to Tingqin Garden.
They also reported finding no trace of Nonuple Palace personnel following the group. Qu Zheng stressed the critical need to keep Jin Muqiu hidden from the Nonuple Palace, believing her participation in the Battle of Martial Arts by the Lake was the only way to ensure her temporary safety. When someone tried to reassure him that she would be safe with her companions, Qu Zheng countered that he himself was not safe, implying she couldn't be either.
Asked why he didn't simply meet her, Qu Zheng stated they would meet soon. The group arrived in Lake Town, buzzing with activity surrounding the Battle of Martial Arts by the Lake. Su Zhuozhuo explained it was the largest martial arts event, organized by the Martial Arts Alliance for skill exchange and resolving conflicts through Martial Arts Bets, where competitors wagered specific deeds or items.
She also clarified the need to pass a knockout stage to qualify for the main competition. They noted the town was filled with merchants alongside martial artists. Yu Linfeng stated he had duties at the Lake Manor and left to register. Jin Muqiu decided to accompany Yu Linfeng and Su Zhuozhuo. Baiwan opted to explore the town alone. Wandering alone, Baiwan came across a stall selling blessing amulets, recognizing the owner who had previously given her a marriage lot.
The owner also recognized her and asked about her husband. Baiwan denied having a husband. As she considered buying an amulet, Qu Zheng appeared. Baiwan was startled. The owner asked if Qu Zheng was her husband, which Baiwan vehemently denied, stating they were competitors aiming for the Lingyao Herb. Yu Chen arrived with his followers, confronting Qu Zheng for deceiving him. Yu Chen ordered his men to attack.
Nonuple Palace members intervened, announcing their co-organization of the event and prohibiting conflict within the competition grounds. Yu Chen accused Qu Zheng of abducting Baiwan, whom he claimed was Chu, a Nonuple Palace disciple. Baiwan denied being Chu. Qu Zheng defended her, arguing that regardless of her identity, the Battle's rules protected all competitors within its territory based solely on martial skill. He called Baiwan his wife, which she immediately refuted.
Jing Yuan then appeared and asked Baiwan if she remembered him. Baiwan stated she did not recognize him but noted his earlier statement about protecting competitors and added that she was also there to compete, using this as an excuse to leave. Yu Chen was angered by her departure. Qu Zheng thanked Jing Yuan for his intervention and prepared to leave. Yu Chen also departed. Baiwan reflected that Qu Zheng would not give up on her easily.
Baiwan checked into the Lake Inn, where all competitors were housed. She seemed to be anticipating meeting someone. Coincidentally, Qu Zheng's room was next door. He told her this meant she could seek his guidance on martial arts anytime she needed. Baiwan accused him of participating specifically to prevent her from obtaining the Lingyao Herb.
Qu Zheng denied this, asserting he was there "to help" her win it, and his only "conspiracy" was hoping she would return to Tingqin Garden to fulfill their marriage. Baiwan flatly rejected this. Qu Zheng reminded her he was the previous champion and likely to win again, implying her lack of experience meant she couldn't win the herb without his help. Baiwan declared they were destined opponents.
Elsewhere, Jin Muqiu explained to Yu Linfeng that she wanted him to participate in the Battle of Martial Arts by the Lake to help Baiwan secure the Lingyao Herb, as the competition was perilous. Yu Linfeng agreed but imposed a condition: if he won the herb for Baiwan, Jin Muqiu must return with him to Taoyuan Valley to provide an explanation to his parents.
Jin Muqiu questioned whether his desire for her return was for his own sake or merely to appease his parents. He initially claimed it was for himself but then mentioned his parents. Disappointed, Jin Muqiu told him her affairs were not his concern and left, concluding he would not easily abandon his pursuit. Someone knocked on Baiwan's door at the inn. She initially thought it was Qu Zheng, but Qingyun stood outside.
He informed her that Jing Yuan wished to see her. Baiwan followed him to the Lake Manor. News reached Qu Zheng that Baiwan had been summoned to Lake Manor, causing him significant worry.
Episode 19 Recap
Jin Baiwan meets Jing Yuan, instinctively recoiling. Jing Yuan comments on meeting her when she was eight years old, noting she didn't have the same fear then. He asks if she has forgotten everything after ten years in his Nonuple Palace. Jin Baiwan explains she came to the Wuhu Meeting specifically to obtain the Lingyao Herb to regain her memory and discover her identity.
Jing Yuan inquires about her plans after recovering her memory, to which she replies she will "do what I should do." He reminds her that when she first joined Nonuple Palace, she said she wanted to enforce justice and do what she wanted, observing that she hasn't changed despite her experiences. When asked why he called her, Jing Yuan explains he fishes by waiting for the right time rather than luring, implying his desired outcomes require patience.
Jin Baiwan suggests this approach might backfire. Qu Zheng then arrives, and his subordinate reports failing to stop him. Qu Zheng confronts Jing Yuan, stating it was improper to take "his wife" without consent and wishes to leave. Jing Yuan dismisses this, claiming he only wanted to reminisce with an old acquaintance. Qu Zheng asserts Jing Yuan is mistaken and hasn't found the right person. Jing Yuan acknowledges potential errors but ominous declares everything will soon be revealed.
Returning to her companions, Jin Baiwan relays that Qu Zheng has also arrived, causing them distress. However, they agree the more immediate problem is the first round knockout competition scheduled for the following day. When the knockout round commences, Zi Jing announces the rules: contestants will be divided into red and blue camps to find a total of 70 tokens hidden in the forest within six hours. The team with more tokens wins, while the losing team is fully eliminated.
Scores will be reported three times, and after the second report, contestants can switch camps. The winning team proceeds to a one-on-one round for the final prize, the Lingyao Herb. Jin Baiwan and Jin Muqiu quickly choose the red camp. Noticing this, Qu Zheng deliberately selects the blue camp and attempts to persuade Jin Baiwan to join him, implying one of them will be eliminated if they are on opposing sides. Jin Baiwan refuses to be on his team.
Meanwhile, Qingyun is instructed by Jing Yuan that as the representative of Nonuple Palace, he must win the first round, and therefore must join the blue camp, which he reluctantly does. As contestants choose, some note that with Nonuple Palace joining the blue camp, it is likely to win. The competition begins, with contestants entering the forest to find tokens. Yu Linfeng also joins the red team.
During the search, Jin Muqiu and a friend are confronted by Yu Chen, who attempts to take their discovered tokens. Jin Muqiu defends herself, instructing her friend to leave while she handles him. Later, while Jin Muqiu is with Yu Linfeng, they are chased. Yu Linfeng protects her, an act that touches Jin Muqiu. However, their emotional moment is disrupted when Yu Linfeng brings up the strict rules of Taoyuan Valley and the incident involving her novels.
Jin Muqiu confronts him, asking if destroying her novels is the price for marrying into his family. Yu Linfeng insists the valley cannot accept her novels and asks if she would end their relationship over "mere novels." Jin Muqiu tearfully states her novels are not mere playthings and questions if they should continue their relationship if he believes that. Meanwhile, Qu Zheng actively gathers tokens for the blue team, amassing a significant number.
He even obtains tokens from disciples of Feng Mount by reminding them of a past favor owed by their Grandmaster, sidestepping the standard competition. He later encounters Jin Baiwan, revealing the large number of tokens he has collected. He notes their blue team is far ahead and refers to her as "Envoy Xueyue."
During the competition, a conflict erupts between members of the same team, prompting Zi Jing, acting as a referee, to intervene and announce a new rule: teammates are strictly prohibited from attacking each other. Later, Jin Baiwan realizes the red team is significantly behind, seeing the reported score is 15 for red and 21 for blue, with blue having a clear lead.
Qu Zheng finds her again and taunts her, suggesting she quit the competition as the gap is too large to overcome. However, the first bell signals the end of the initial phase and the start of the camp switching phase. This new phase allows contestants to switch camps by obtaining an opponent's sash and having it confirmed by Nonuple Palace disciples.
Dialogue among observers reveals this phase is designed to create chaos and test contestants' moral character, as switching camps is viewed by many martial artists as a form of betrayal, potentially leading to ostracism. Jin Baiwan worries about the situation but refuses Qu Zheng's offer to switch to the winning blue team. Unexpectedly, Qingyun is reported to have switched to the red team.
This action surprises Jing Yuan, who views it as a humiliation to Nonuple Palace, though his subordinate suggests Qingyun has his own reasons, which Jing Yuan attributes to his feelings for Jin Baiwan and calls a repeated act of disobedience. As more people switch, primarily to the blue team, the score gap widens further. Qingyun finds Jin Baiwan, explaining he cannot leave her in danger as the competition becomes more perilous, and promises to ensure she wins the Lingyao Herb.
It becomes clear, however, that even with Qingyun's efforts, the remaining tokens are unlikely to be enough to close the significant lead held by the blue team. Qingyun reiterates his commitment to helping her win before leaving. The third bell rings, signaling the start of the final fifteen minutes of the competition. Jin Baiwan is told by someone that this final segment is where anything goes, with contestants using any means necessary to win.
Seeking clarity, Jin Baiwan asks Zi Jing if all rules are broken in the last fifteen minutes. Zi Jing confirms that the "only" standing rule is that no harm can come to disciples of Nonuple Palace, who are serving as judges. Jin Baiwan acknowledges this information, formulating a plan. She distances herself from others, instructing anyone following her not to interfere with her pursuit of the Lingyao Herb. Then, she quietly returns to the blue team's stronghold.
Finding a Nonuple Palace guard there who was seeking refuge, she confirms the 'rules can be broken except harming Nonuple Palace disciples' understanding. Apologizing, she quickly incapacitates the guard, rationalizing that merely knocking him out doesn't violate the rule. She then proceeds to take a large number of tokens from the blue team's collection. Just as she is about to make her escape, Yu Chen from the blue team appears. He confronts her angrily, recognizing her and accusing her of stealing their tokens and betraying her original team, leading to a confrontation as other blue team members arrive.
Episode 20 Recap
Baiwan held a token she had taken from the blue team. Yu Chen confronted her, threatening her. Qu Zheng appeared, telling Baiwan that holding onto the token would only put her in greater danger. Baiwan insisted she could not be eliminated and had to obtain the Lingyao Herb, refusing to withdraw from the competition when Qu Zheng advised it. Seeing her resolve, Qu Zheng took out his zither, startling Baiwan. She couldn't believe he would act against her.
However, Qu Zheng then proceeded to defeat Yu Chen and his companions, surprising them as this action indicated betrayal. Qu Zheng then switched his affiliation to the red team. Baiwan was shocked, but Qu Zheng seemed unfazed, stating that since he couldn't persuade her to join him, he would join her side instead. He then led Baiwan away, helping her evade pursuers.
Later, Qu Zheng assisted Baiwan by blocking the advancing blue team members, allowing Baiwan to successfully hand the token to Zi Jing just before the deadline. The red team won the knockout stage. Baiwan and Qu Zheng were overjoyed, while Qingyun watched from the shadows, his brows furrowed. Jin Muqiu and Su Zhuozhuo waited for Baiwan for dinner, both happy she had successfully passed the knockout stage.
However, Baiwan announced she was going to find Qu Zheng, which surprised Su Zhuozhuo. Baiwan wanted to ask Qu Zheng why he had helped her. Qu Zheng first teased her, asking if she hoped he still harbored feelings for her. He then became serious, telling her he intended to help her regain her memory. He also asked if she believed he hadn't committed the wrongful acts she believed he had, leaving Baiwan speechless.
Meanwhile, Jin Muqiu and Su Zhuozhuo were talking when Jin Muqiu's father and the Lord of Taoyuan Valley arrived. They had come to discuss Jin Muqiu's situation with Linfeng, the Lord's son. Jin Muqiu steadfastly maintained that she had made up her mind about divorcing Linfeng. She asked the two men to convince Linfeng to return, but the Lord revealed he had already spoken to his son, who stubbornly refused to return without Jin Muqiu.
The Lord asked Jin Muqiu to talk to Linfeng, causing her to fall into pensive silence. Just as Qu Zheng left Baiwan, Qingyun arrived. Qingyun declared that he would definitely obtain the Lingyao Herb. Baiwan tried to explain that she might not be the person he was looking for, but Qingyun remained insistent, saying he would never mistake her voice and that she had simply forgotten.
He believed that once her memory returned, everything would revert to how it was before. Later, Qingyun attempted to steal the Lingyao Herb but was discovered by Zi Jing. Jing Yuan also appeared. Qingyun was reprimanded by Jing Yuan, who then assigned him a task: kill Qu Zheng. Jing Yuan claimed that only by eliminating Qu Zheng could "Chu" return to her former self. Qingyun acknowledged Qu Zheng's strength but Jing Yuan promised to provide assistance.
The following day, the announcements for the next round of the Wuhu Meeting were posted. Baiwan was concerned to see she was matched against Jiuxing of Nonguple Palace. At that moment, Yu Chen arrived, bringing a supposed witness who claimed the token Baiwan submitted at the end of the knockout stage was fake. Qu Zheng stepped forward to defend Baiwan, arguing that Yu Chen's accusation was baseless. When Jing Yuan received word of the commotion, he arrived angered.
The Nonguple Palace disciple brought by Yu Chen then confessed to being bribed by Yu Chen to swap the tokens. Jing Yuan took both the disciple and Yu Chen away, disqualifying Yu Chen from the competition. On their way back, Jin Muqiu and Baiwan were stopped by Qingyun. Baiwan sat down with him, thanking him for his help (presumably during the knockout stage). She gently tried to explain again that she might not be the person he was seeking.
Qingyun was convinced her memory loss was the reason she didn't recognize him, believing she would remember once she recovered. Returning home, Baiwan noticed someone acting strangely while delivering water to Qu Zheng's room. Without hesitation, she entered the room to warn him, only to find him bathing. Qu Zheng revealed he had already been aware of the issue with the bathwater, but her arrival showed her concern for him.
It was later confirmed the water had been tampered with, an attempt by people from Fengyun Villa who had disguised themselves. Baiwan confided in Jin Muqiu about Qu Zheng. Jin Muqiu speculated that Qu Zheng might be there to help Baiwan. She advised Baiwan not to just listen to his words, but to watch his eyes when he spoke, as eyes do not deceive.
However, Jin Muqiu also admitted she had her own troubles, holding a broken jade hairpin and lamenting the missing piece, suggesting her own relationship issues were unresolved. Jin Muqiu urged someone (implied to be Qu Zheng) to directly explain their past and that he was not the bad person Baiwan believed him to be, saying everything would become clear once she retrieved the Lingyao Herb.
The other person expressed concern about Baiwan's reaction upon recovering her memory but resolved to face it together with her. Meanwhile, Qingyun was secretly practicing a technique taught to him by his "father" (Jing Yuan). In just a few days, his power increased dramatically, on the condition that he must kill Qu Zheng in the arena. Later, patrolling guards discovered Yu Chen's body lying in the street. Yu Chen's disciples immediately went to Qu Zheng, accusing him of the murder and demanding he pay for it. Qu Zheng calmly asked them for evidence.
Episode 21 Recap
Men arrived and accused Qu Zheng of killing their lord, Yu Chen. Baiwan immediately stood in front of Qu Zheng, adamantly declaring his innocence based on her knowledge of him and questioning their logic and evidence. Qu Zheng calmly supported Baiwan, demanding the accusers provide proof. As the argument escalated, people from Nonuple Palace arrived. Jing Yuan, the Host of Nonuple Palace, brought Su Zhuozhuo to examine Yu Chen's body.
After her examination, Su Zhuozhuo determined that Yu Chen died from a powerful palm strike, a martial art she had never seen, and not from poison. She concluded that Qu Zheng, who specializes in qin music, could not be the killer. When asked who she thought the murderer might be, she described the killer's internal force as extremely profound, possessed by only a few individuals in the arena, possibly even a match for the Host.
She also noted the victim's bones were broken and internal force drained, suggesting a cruel and potentially dark martial art. Su Zhuozhuo stated that her role was limited to the autopsy and reporting her findings, leaving the investigation of the killer to the Nonuple Palace. Jing Yuan agreed. Subsequently, Jing Yuan and Su Zhuozhuo publicly announced their findings, clearing Qu Zheng of the murder, which brought relief to Baiwan.
Some of Yu Chen's people attempted to bribe the Host to pursue the accusation against Qu Zheng, but were rebuffed. Later, Baiwan demanded Qu Zheng explain the situation, particularly his involvement with the Canon. Qu Zheng readily agreed to tell her everything. He admitted that he orchestrated the plan involving the Canon to investigate the truth behind the Xu family massacre five years prior and to expose the person who stole the Puyuan Canon.
While he had not seen Yu Chen's body firsthand, he speculated that Yu Chen was also killed by someone using the Puyuan Canon, confirming that the culprit responsible for the Xu family tragedy was still active and using the Canon for nefarious purposes. Baiwan realized she had misunderstood Qu Zheng. He explained that he did not feel the need to clarify earlier because he was confident that Baiwan would eventually understand him.
He also addressed her question about him helping her get the Lingyao Herb despite his previous hesitation about her regaining her memories. Qu Zheng admitted he had initially thought that not knowing might lead to a happier life for her, but seeing her determined efforts to recover her memories made him realize he had no right to prevent her from finding her true self, regardless of her past or their relationship.
Baiwan asked if he feared she might return to Nonuple Palace, leave him, or fall for someone else once her memory returned. Qu Zheng confidently stated that he had no such fears because she would always be true to herself and would not do anything she regretted.
He added that their promise to spend their lives together, his trust in her, and his belief that he understands and loves her more than anyone in the world assured him she would never leave or love another. Baiwan felt shy upon hearing his words. Meanwhile, Jin Muqiu was anxiously waiting for Baiwan. Yu Linfeng arrived, having reflected on his actions.
He apologized for disrespecting her hard work on her novels, acknowledging his mistake in suggesting she give up her passion. Jin Muqiu confirmed his words were the source of her anger. Yu Linfeng further informed her that his mother, despite her earlier behavior, understood her actions were inappropriate for an elder and wanted Jin Muqiu to return to Taoyuan Valley, promising to get along with her there. Jin Muqiu was surprised by this news.
Yu Linfeng confirmed his mother's changed attitude and proposed they return to the valley to discuss her writing further. Jin Muqiu asked if he truly didn't blame her for leaving after writing the divorce letter, and he responded that he shared responsibility and could not blame her. She then asked if she could truly be herself and not pretend back in the valley, to which he replied that things would be easier once they returned.
Shortly after leaving Jin Muqiu, Yu Linfeng learned his mother had arrived at the Battle of martial arts by the lake. Jueming, his attendant, noted that both sides would now be exposed and that Yu Linfeng's mother would likely be furious about Jin Muqiu's presence and actions at the event. Yu Linfeng insisted that his mother must not learn the full extent of the situation.
Just then, his mother appeared, declaring she knew everything and expressing anger at Jin Muqiu for participating in the event and disregarding the reputation of Taoyuan Valley. She announced her intention to meet Jin Head Escort the following day to finalize the divorce. Yu Linfeng quickly attempted to appease her, fabricating a story that Jin Muqiu had realized her mistakes and wanted to apologize.
He claimed Jin Muqiu's participation was meant to bring glory to the valley and offered to make her withdraw and return home immediately if his mother disapproved. His mother scoffed, calling Jin Muqiu lawless. Yu Linfeng persisted, assuring his mother that Jin Muqiu had promised to improve and follow her teachings, begging for another chance. His mother agreed to be magnanimous and give Jin Muqiu a chance, expressing hope that she would change as promised.
After his mother departed, Jueming expressed astonishment at Yu Linfeng's newfound ability to lie. Yu Linfeng admitted he had to resort to lies to prevent the divorce, stating that winning back Jin Muqiu's heart was now his priority. Meanwhile, Baiwan sought a craftsman to repair a broken peach blossom hairpin. The craftsman said it was too broken and missing a piece, recommending a new one.
Baiwan insisted it was important to her, asking if there was any way to fix it despite the missing piece. The craftsman remained hesitant. Qu Zheng appeared, producing the missing piece of jade and offering a large sum of silver. The craftsman's attitude immediately changed, and he agreed to repair the hairpin, saying he would do his best to fulfill her wish. The hairpin was successfully repaired, symbolizing their renewed connection.
Baiwan asked Qu Zheng how he found the missing piece, suspecting he might have confronted the thief. Qu Zheng replied that a husband must pay attention when his wife travels alone. Baiwan reminded him that their marriage contract was dissolved. Qu Zheng playfully threatened to give the hairpin to someone else if she insisted on that, prompting Baiwan to stop him and assert that both the hairpin and he belonged to her.
Qu Zheng reaffirmed that both the hairpin and the giver were hers forever and then asked for something in return – a wife to spend his life with, solidifying their reconciliation. Witnessing their mended relationship, Su Zhuozhuo was puzzled. She later tried to pry details from Song Jianshan, offering him sweets. Song Jianshan deflected, calling it normal for couples to fight and make up, and implying Baiwan's understanding of Qu Zheng came from her own experiences.
When Su Zhuozhuo pressed him for more information about Qu Zheng, Song Jianshan refused to disclose anything, saying it was "unspeakable." Annoyed by his refusal, Su Zhuozhuo poisoned the sweets, warning him they were within her reach. Song Jianshan ate them anyway, confirming she had poisoned him again, but noted they tasted good. Su Zhuozhuo asserted she had ways to make him talk.
A servant rushed to Yu Linfeng with news that his mother had summoned Jin Muqiu early that morning, confirming Jueming's fears that both sides of Yu Linfeng's deception were about to be exposed. Yu Linfeng hurried to the scene, which had descended into chaos.
The Taoyuan Valley family members were demanding Jin Muqiu adhere to their strict rules if she wished to marry into their family, while Jin Muqiu's family accused Taoyuan Valley of deceit and bullying, particularly regarding the burning of her novels, for which they demanded an apology. Taoyuan Valley elders refused to apologize to a junior. Upon arriving, Yu Linfeng was immediately confronted and accused of being a liar who had manipulated both families.
Jin Head Escort tried to calm the situation, calling it a family matter that needed to be resolved privately, but Jin Muqiu's side was outraged by her treatment. Taoyuan Valley insisted Jin Muqiu was ill-mannered. Jin Muqiu declared that she and Yu Linfeng were already divorced. Yu Linfeng desperately tried to stop her, but she insisted he had pushed her to this point. She refused to return with him, stating they were from different worlds and should remain separate.
Yu Linfeng refused to accept this, insisting she was his wife and he would bring her into his world, vowing never to give up. When she remained unswayed, he threatened to bring the entire martial arts world to persuade her. Jin Muqiu accepted his challenge, agreeing to settle the matter on the Ring for Battle of martial arts by the lake the following day.
The first match of the Battle of martial arts by the lake Ring competition was announced: Yu Linfeng, the Young Lord of Taoyuan Valley, versus Jin Muqiu, the Miss of Jin's Escort Agency. Spectators were surprised, noting she was rumored to be Yu Linfeng's wife who had recently divorced him. Jin Head Escort attempted to intervene, urging Jin Muqiu to step down and promising to handle the divorce amicably without resort to violence.
However, Jin Muqiu insisted on resolving the matter herself, telling her father not to interfere. A referee from Nonuple Palace stepped in, forbidding any interference as per the competition rules. Yu Linfeng asked Jin Muqiu if she was truly determined to proceed.
They publicly declared their stakes: if Yu Linfeng won, Jin Muqiu would return to Taoyuan Valley and the divorce would be nullified; if Jin Muqiu won, it would be as though she had never married into Taoyuan Valley, and they would never see each other again. Yu Linfeng urged her to give up, stating she couldn't defeat him, but Jin Muqiu countered that the outcome was not yet decided. During the match, Jin Muqiu was injured.
Yu Linfeng urged her to stop, but she reiterated that if she won, they would never meet again. Jin Muqiu was declared the winner. Yu Linfeng appeared injured. People observed that he seemed to have lost on purpose to protect her. The referee confirmed that according to the martial arts stake, Yu Linfeng was bound never to see Jin Muqiu again. Yu Linfeng accepted the condition.
Jin Muqiu wept, regretting that his loss meant she could no longer see him or check on his injuries, blaming herself. Baiwan comforted her, promising to find a way to help. Desperate to help Jin Muqiu, Baiwan sought someone to discuss canceling the martial arts stake. She found a referee on the platform. When she asked about canceling the stake, the referee explained it was an irrevocable law.
Baiwan questioned the wisdom of those who made such rules, calling them "stupid old fools." The referee then revealed that the rule was established by esteemed figures including the former Lord of Taoyuan Valley, Yufei, and Jin Head Escort, Jin Gunan. Baiwan quickly retracted her comment about Jin Head Escort being foolish and suggested discussing the matter with him to find a solution.
The referee stopped her, pointing out that she had just struck the challenge drum on the platform, inviting a Nonuple Palace disciple, Feilian, to the Ring. The referee announced that Baiwan's opponent for the match in two days was now Feilian. Baiwan was bewildered, claiming ignorance of this rule, but the referee declared the challenge drum had been struck, and the match was set.
Feilian, a disciple of Nonuple Palace, discussed Jin Baiwan's challenge with Jing Yuan and Jing Yuan's brother, the Young Host of Nonuple Palace. Feilian remarked on Baiwan's foolishness in challenging after losing her memory and skills. The Young Host acknowledged that this presented Feilian with an opportunity to challenge the former Xueyue (Baiwan's previous identity). Feilian stated he understood and would make Baiwan suffer during the match. However, the Young Host sternly warned Feilian not to harm Chu (Baiwan).
Feilian argued that Baiwan had challenged herself according to the rules. The Young Host reiterated his threat, stating he would not let them off if they dared to injure Chu on the Ring. Feilian dismissed the threat, pointing out that even if he held back, Baiwan was facing the entire Battle of martial arts by the lake, and the Young Host would be powerless to stop it.
Understanding the difficult challenge ahead, Baiwan began practicing diligently, despite her current lack of skill. Qu Zheng observed her efforts, commenting that even such hard training might not significantly help her against Feilian. Baiwan insisted that every minute of practice offered a greater chance of winning. Qu Zheng admitted that, realistically, defeating Feilian with her current abilities seemed almost impossible. However, Baiwan remained determined to fight for the Lingyao Herb, feeling that intensive training was her only option.
Qu Zheng told her she wasn't without options and offered to help her practice. While he would prefer she forfeit the match, he respected her resolve. He offered to teach her three moves to use against Feilian. The first move, called "Lure the enemy," involved appearing weak to paralyze the opponent, using defensive postures to find openings for counterattacks. The second move, "Hold fast," involved matching the opponent's rhythm and extending the fight duration while strengthening defenses to prevent breakthroughs and provoke the opponent.
Episode 22 Recap
Qu Zheng instructed Baiwan on martial arts, teaching her a third move to defeat enemies which required complete trust. Baiwan affirmed her trust in him, calling him Zheng, and they prepared to practice further. Elsewhere, a commotion erupted as two individuals attacked Song Jianshan, who was disguised as a doctor from the Battle. They claimed he was an unskilled doctor and beat him before guards arrived. Song Jianshan fled, with the guards in pursuit.
Meanwhile, Jin Muqiu visited Yu Linfeng, bringing medicine for him. She confessed her mistake in making the Martial Arts Bet out of anger because he prevented her from pursuing her dreams for their families' sake. She clarified she didn't truly want to leave him and suggested they find a way to resolve the bet together if he felt the same. To her shock, Yu Linfeng's parents were also present.
Mrs. Yu immediately berated Jin Muqiu, accusing her of being shameless for breaking her promise of never meeting Yu Linfeng again after the bet was made. She blamed Jin Muqiu for causing the Yu family to be mocked. Jin Muqiu insisted she only wanted to see Yu Linfeng, but Mrs. Yu warned that her actions could harm him and threatened to sever ties with Jin's Escort Agency if she dared to approach Yu Linfeng again.
Shamefaced, Jin Muqiu apologized and left. Yu Linfeng tried to follow her but was stopped by his mother, who called Jin Muqiu a source of trouble and expressed regret over their marriage. Yu Linfeng defended Jin Muqiu, highlighting her cautious and meticulous nature and how much she had endured since marrying into their family. His father was also present as he spoke up, which his mother saw as defiance. Yu Linfeng accepted responsibility, acknowledging he hadn't considered her feelings.
His mother reminded him the bet made them strangers forever and that his actions risked not only the entire martial world but also Jin's Escort Agency. Understanding the gravity, Yu Linfeng stated he would handle the bet he made himself. Outside, Jin Muqiu tearfully wondered if she and Yu Linfeng would never be able to see each other again.
While Jin Muqiu was still distraught, a book merchant arrived, seeking to capitalize on her recent fame from defeating Yu Linfeng in the Battle. He proposed organizing a fan gathering to publicize her pen name, Qiu Qiuer, promising great profit. Jin Muqiu refused, unwilling to reveal her identity or cause further harm to the Taoyuan Valley.
The merchant, however, threatened to break their contract and continue writing her popular "Barefaced Yu Lingfeng" series under the Qiu Qiuer name himself, fabricating any story he pleased, if she didn't comply or produce a new manuscript. Left with no choice, Jin Muqiu reluctantly agreed to the fan gathering. The fan gathering for Qiu Qiuer was announced, drawing a crowd eager to meet the popular writer whose identity had always been a mystery.
Many speculated if the scandalous details in her novel, "Barefaced Yu Lingfeng," were based on her real-life experience with Yu Linfeng. When Jin Muqiu took the stage, she publicly clarified that the character Yu Lingfeng in her novel was entirely fictional and different from the real Mr Yu from Taoyuan Valley, stating the novel was made up solely to draw attention. She described the true Mr Yu as a righteous, aboveboard, decent, and mannered real gentleman.
When asked why she divorced such a good man, she stated she only ever loved the man who made her a kite, hinting at Yu Linfeng, a detail found in her novel. She spoke about valuing freedom above all else, even over being with the person she loved. Yu Linfeng watched from the audience. During the signing session, Yu Linfeng gave a young girl his copy of the novel and asked her to get Jin Muqiu's signature for him.
Upon receiving the book, Jin Muqiu recognized Yu Linfeng's handwriting inside. She asked the girl who gave it to her, and the girl pointed towards Yu Linfeng. Jin Muqiu called out "Brother Shu" but he had already left, vowing to find a way for them to be together again by resolving the Martial Arts Bet. Elsewhere, Qingyun confronted Baiwan, questioning if Qu Zheng's teachings could truly help her defeat Feilian in the Battle.
He insisted that he, as her former love, should be the one to help her obtain the Lingyao Herb and that Qu Zheng was deceiving her. Baiwan maintained her trust in Qu Zheng, not Qingyun. As Qingyun grabbed her arm, Qu Zheng arrived and asserted Baiwan was his wife, demanding Qingyun release her. Qingyun disputed this, believing she was Chu, his palace's eldest disciple, and that she would remember her true identity upon regaining her memory.
Qu Zheng dismissed this, stating she didn't need Qingyun's reminders. When Qu Zheng attempted to leave with Baiwan, Qingyun stopped them. Qu Zheng warned Qingyun about the Battle's rule against private fighting but stated he was willing to fight if Qingyun insisted. Baiwan urged Qu Zheng to leave. Later, Qingyun directly confronted Qu Zheng, asking when he would stop deceiving Chu. Qu Zheng again referred to her as his wife, Baiwan.
Qingyun predicted that once she regained her memory, she would hate Qu Zheng, realizing that Qingyun was the one who truly wanted to kill him. Qingyun admitted his desire to kill Qu Zheng, but only in the arena during their planned match, a challenge Qu Zheng accepted, agreeing only one of them would survive. In the arena, the 54th round of the Battle was announced: Feilian of Nonuple Palace versus Jin Baiwan from Jin's Escort Agency.
Just as the match was to begin, Feilian requested its termination, refusing to fight Baiwan, whom she called a shameless person. Feilian accused Baiwan of having ambushed and injured her the previous night to gain an advantage. Baiwan vehemently denied the accusation as slander. When questioned by the judge if they had engaged in private fighting before the match, Feilian's side confirmed and presented a witness.
Citing the Battle's strict prohibition of private fights, the judge announced the disqualification of both Jin Baiwan and Feilian from the competition. Baiwan reacted with confusion and disbelief. Baiwan questioned Qu Zheng about the disqualification, accusing him of letting her fight Feilian and potentially getting her killed. Qu Zheng responded by questioning Qingyun's past actions, asking why he betrayed his master to help Baiwan pass an earlier round. Qingyun claimed he had his own ways to protect her.
Qu Zheng countered that even if she had defeated Feilian, more dangerous opponents awaited, which Qingyun couldn't guarantee protection against. Qingyun conceded that the current situation was partly their doing but suggested it could still be salvaged. Qu Zheng revealed he had planned to find Qingyun anyway to ensure Baiwan's safety, even if it meant breaking rules, but felt Qingyun was better suited to carry out his plan. Qingyun questioned his motives.
Baiwan then confronted Qu Zheng, asking if he had known about the disqualification plan beforehand. Qu Zheng confirmed he knew, stating he believed it was for her own good as the competition was too dangerous. He admitted the few moves he taught her wouldn't be enough to sustain her through the later rounds but couldn't watch her enter such peril. He promised to obtain the Lingyao Herb for her himself.
When Baiwan expressed doubt about his reliability, he reminded her of his status as the previous Battle champion and asked why she didn't trust her husband. He assured her they would return safely to their home. Separately, Song Jianshan was seen loudly hawking "Unique Strength Pills," claiming one could provide ten years of power. When someone took a pill and seemed to collapse, accusations of selling deadly pills arose.
Su Zhuozhuo appeared, revealing Song Jianshan was merely faking it to disrupt her business. Song Jianshan admitted it was a joke and he was trying to warn her against earning "dirty money," especially when Jin Muqiu was sad. He claimed he needed money to buy sweet desserts to cheer her up. Su Zhuozhuo then demanded he buy her sweet desserts as well, leading to a public, playful spat where they exchanged jabs and chased each other.
The final match of the Battle was announced for the next day at noon, between Qu Zheng, Lord of Tingqin Garden, and Qingyun, Young Host of Nonuple Palace. A maid informed Jin Muqiu that Zheng had reached the final, commenting on how interesting the match between the two would be. Jin Muqiu denied thinking about Yu Linfeng, saying she was happy for Qu Zheng because he was powerful.
Meanwhile, a figure of authority, Your Majesty, received new Vitality Pills from Doctor Demon. He noted the doctor's skill but expressed concern that relying solely on him wasn't a long-term solution, stating that only finding the remaining pages of the Puyuan Canon could prevent him from being possessed by the Devil. He suspected Qu Zheng might possess the missing pages and hoped the final match would reveal the truth.
He believed the Lingyao Herb offer was a ploy with a hidden motive, unsure if the target was himself or Baiwan. Separately, Qingyun discussed the situation with Zi Jing, wondering why Qu Zheng, who seemed to want Baiwan to stay away, allowed them to reach the final so easily. He suspected Qu Zheng had a plan and requested Zi Jing's assistance for the following day, hinting that he might have figured out Qu Zheng's intentions.
Baiwan spoke to Qingyun and Zi Jing, expressing her wish that Qingyun and Qu Zheng did not have to face each other in the final. Qingyun stated only he could win to get her the Lingyao Herb. Baiwan tried to persuade him that he misunderstood Qu Zheng, who came to the Battle specifically to help her get the herb and regain her memory, stating she trusted him.
Qingyun questioned her trust given Qu Zheng's past actions, but Baiwan insisted she understood them and would trust him even if she regained her memory. Qingyun darkly warned that only one of them would survive the final match and it would not be Qu Zheng. Baiwan reiterated she only wanted Qu Zheng to obtain the herb.
Later, worried after hearing Qingyun's threat, Baiwan pleaded with Qu Zheng to leave the Battle immediately, abandoning the Lingyao Herb and her memory recovery to ensure his safety. Qu Zheng questioned her lack of confidence in him. Baiwan insisted she couldn't let him be in danger, especially since Qingyun seemed determined to be merciless. Qu Zheng acknowledged that escaping was possible but warned that giving up the Lingyao Herb would be a lifelong regret for her.
Baiwan stated his safety was more important. Touched, Qu Zheng vowed he would not let her have that regret, especially having come so far. He urged her to trust him, assuring her he would safely obtain the Lingyao Herb for her. Qingyun practiced a powerful martial art, and Zi Jing advised him to use it sparingly unless necessary due to its intensity. Qingyun recognized it as the Puyuan Canon, confirming his suspicion.
He asked if it was related to Qu Zheng, which Zi Jing initially denied but then suggested it was better Qingyun knew less about. Realizing the immense power of even the three moves his father taught him from the Canon, Qingyun mused that with the full text, Qu Zheng would be no match for him.
At the start of the final match between Qingyun, Young Host of Nonuple Palace, and Qu Zheng, Lord of Tingqin Garden, they were asked to state their Martial Arts Bets. Qingyun declared that if he won, Qu Zheng must immediately release his palace's eldest disciple, Chu, and cease bothering her. Qu Zheng reiterated that his wife, Jin Baiwan, was not a Nonuple Palace disciple.
Since Qingyun insisted on pursuing the matter, Qu Zheng countered with his bet: if he won, Qingyun and the entire Nonuple Palace must never approach or harm Jin Baiwan again, for any reason.
Episode 23 Recap
During the martial arts contest, Qu Zheng and Qingyun set their Martial Arts Bet, drawing a large crowd. Su Zhuozhuo observed that Jin Baiwan and Jin Muqiu were conspicuously absent. Earlier, Jin Muqiu was with Jin Baiwan as she woke up, expressing surprise that she was awake so soon. Feeling dizzy, Jin Baiwan questioned what happened. Jin Muqiu confessed that Qu Zheng did not want Jin Baiwan to attend the contest, so she had given her something the previous night.
Understanding the reason, Jin Baiwan insisted on going and rushed to the Wuhu Meeting. The contest began with Qu Zheng and Qingyun fighting fiercely. Qu Zheng was surprised to find that Qingyun knew the Puyuan Canon. As Qu Zheng countered, Jing Yuan watched intently, confirming that Qu Zheng was the one who had attacked him in Yinxue Village and was shocked to see Qu Zheng knew how to counter the Puyuan Canon.
While Jing Yuan was deep in thought, Qingyun was defeated. Qu Zheng was declared the winner, but he secretly noticed a problem, glancing at his hand and recognizing the effect of the "love poison." Despite this, he maintained his composure, giving Jin Baiwan a reassuring look before preparing to claim the first prize. Jin Baiwan happily approached him, but Jing Yuan suddenly stopped them, stating he had many doubts about Jin Baiwan and demanded an explanation for everyone present.
Jing Yuan publicly declared that Jin Baiwan was actually Chu, the eldest disciple of Nonuple Palace who had disappeared five years ago. He accused Chu of being the culprit behind the extermination of the Xu family and the theft of the Puyuan Canon five years prior. He then linked Qu Zheng and Jin Baiwan, claiming they had both betrayed the martial world, with Qu Zheng's use of the Puyuan Canon in the arena being the evidence.
Jing Yuan further alleged they had brutally killed Yu Chen, the young master of the Yu family, with demon skills after he discovered their crimes. Qu Zheng calmly refuted the accusations, calling them baseless fabrications and demanding evidence, to which Jing Yuan pointed to Qu Zheng's use of the canon itself. The crowd reacted with shock and outrage, calling Jin Baiwan an "evil bitch" and accusing Qu Zheng of colluding with her. Jing Yuan ordered his disciples to apprehend them.
Su Zhuozhuo attempted to intervene but was held back by Song Jianshan. Qu Zheng told Jin Baiwan not to worry. A cloud of white smoke erupted, and when it cleared, Qu Zheng and Jin Baiwan were gone. Song Jianshan calmly led Su Zhuozhuo away, telling her to listen to him. As they traveled in a carriage, Jin Baiwan was reeling from the accusations.
She desperately wanted to regain her memories, hoping it would help clear Qu Zheng's name and uncover the truth behind the claims that she was a defected disciple and committed terrible crimes. She wondered if taking the Lingyao Herb now would help. Soon, someone announced they had arrived.
Qu Zheng helped Jin Baiwan out of the carriage, telling her they were heading to Jin's Escort Agency and that he had already sent word to Song Jianshan and Su Zhuozhuo to go ahead. Looking around, Jin Baiwan realized this was not the usual route to the agency. Qu Zheng explained he remembered her wish to visit the divine tree near Furong Town to pray and had taken a detour.
He also mentioned this route was less likely to be tracked by Jing Yuan's men. Jin Baiwan was happy to fulfill her wish. They walked towards the sacred tree, and Qu Zheng recounted the legend of a divine being who became the tree to grant wishes. They observed the wishes tied to the branches, noting their somber nature. Jin Baiwan teased Qu Zheng about not believing in wishes before.
He admitted he didn't when he had no desires, but now he did. He wished for Jin Baiwan's safety, happiness, and that she would never forget him. Jin Baiwan responded that she could grant the wish of her not forgetting him herself and then wished for his eternal love and their life together, free from trouble after she regained her memory. Qu Zheng assured her she didn't need divine intervention, as his love for her was absolute.
Internally, Qu Zheng was heavy-hearted, knowing this journey was their last time together before he took her back to the agency and faced Jing Yuan alone to keep her safe. He cherished every moment, wishing the path would never end. Later, Jin Baiwan, having changed into a red dress, waited for Qu Zheng in the rain, explaining she wanted him to see her dressed this way upon his return.
She proposed to him again, asking him to marry her and spend their lives together. Qu Zheng accepted, telling her his answer was a long one that would take a lifetime to fulfill. He privately reflected on his selfishness for prolonging their time together despite the uncertain future, but he couldn't resist the precious moments. They embraced, their future uncertain but their bond strong. Meanwhile, Jin Muqiu and her father had returned to Jin's Escort Agency.
Jin Muqiu's father, despite hearing the rumors about Jin Baiwan and Qu Zheng, trusted their character completely. A book merchant arrived, pressuring Jin Muqiu for new manuscripts. She announced she was quitting writing novels and offered compensation. Her father, concerned about her well-being, supported her decision. He later intercepted a letter from Yu Linfeng addressed to Jin Muqiu.
He returned the letter to Yu Linfeng via courier, adding a stern note reminding him of the Martial Arts Bet preventing them from meeting and warning him to stop contacting her. Back at his valley, Yu Linfeng's subordinate reported that Jin Muqiu had stopped writing, and rumors suggested she had run out of ideas.
Despite the returned letters and the reminder of the bet, Yu Linfeng lamented that he still hadn't moved on from his feelings for her, questioning how to cut ties when his heart remained unchanged. Qu Zheng and Jin Baiwan finally arrived at Jin's Escort Agency, where Su Zhuozhuo had already arrived.
Qu Zheng personally prepared the Lingyao Herb medicine for Jin Baiwan, which Su Zhuozhuo confirmed was the remedy for the "Wangyou Poison" and would induce several days of sleep before restoring memory. Jin Baiwan drank the medicine and immediately fell unconscious. Qu Zheng watched over her, speaking softly to the sleeping Jin Baiwan, telling her he had searched for her for five years and that she was his greatest blessing.
He vowed his heart would never change and he would face whatever the past held alongside her. Just then, Song Jianshan arrived with urgent news: something had happened at Tingqin Garden. Qu Zheng knew he had to leave. He decided he must face the impending danger alone to keep Jin Baiwan safe from further conflict. When Jin Baiwan woke up, she felt dizzy and had not regained her memory. She immediately asked for Qu Zheng.
Su Zhuozhuo told her he had left with Song Jianshan. Shocked that he would leave her, Jin Baiwan then heard the news that several martial schools had united and were attacking Tingqin Garden as a result of the unrest caused by Qu Zheng's actions and the accusations at the Wuhu Meeting. Hearing this, Jin Baiwan quickly resolved to go find Qu Zheng.
Episode 24 Recap
That night, as the Host Jing Yuan of Nonguple Palace was preoccupied with attacking the Tingqin Garden, Zi Jing saw an opportunity. She sneaked into a secret room while her Majesty was momentarily distracted and transcribed a copy of the Puyuan Canon. She had moved a mechanism, fearing it might be detected, but Qingyun reassured her he would take responsibility if anything was discovered. He eagerly demanded the canon.
Zi Jing hesitated, not to threaten him, but to warn him that the canon was not as immensely powerful as he imagined; practitioners could easily become possessed by the Devil, just like the Host Jing Yuan. She was afraid for him if he insisted on practicing it. Qingyun, however, was desperate, seeing this as his only chance to defeat Qu Zheng.
Even if it meant possession, he felt he had no other choice and threatened her if she continued to obstruct him. Zi Jing pressed him, asking what he would gain even if he mastered the technique, asserting that Chu would never change for him. This provoked Qingyun, who refused to entertain the possibility. He believed that once Qu Zheng was dead, Chu would return to him.
Zi Jing countered, asking if Chu would care if he died in battle, pointing out that she was the only one who truly cared about his life. She lamented that their relationship was complicated only because she had entered Nonguple Palace and met him a few years after Chu. Despite her reservations, Zi Jing handed over the canon. Qingyun promised to fulfill any request she had.
Zi Jing sadly replied that he knew what she wanted, but it was something he could not give her. Meanwhile, Chu, also known as Baiwan, was anxious to find Qu Zheng. Jin Muqiu and Su Zhuozhuo tried to stop her, warning that the entrance to Tingqin Garden was surrounded by martial artists and that she would be walking into danger as a perceived villain. But Chu was determined to find Zheng, who she believed was in danger.
They hadn't gone far before they encountered Qingyun. He quickly incapacitated Jin Muqiu and Su Zhuozhuo, and Chu fell into his arms. When Chu awoke, she was with Qingyun and felt a confusing sense of familiarity. Qingyun took her around the courtyard, which he revealed was their favorite secret spot when they were on missions, a place only they knew. Seeing the surroundings triggered her memories.
He showed her a tree where she had carved sword marks after missions, explaining they were their tombstones made because their missions were dangerous. He reminded her of a time he nearly died and she promised to stay with him forever. As her memories flooded back, Qingyun received an urgent summons from the Host Jing Yuan, requiring all disciples to return to Nonguple Palace. He told Chu to rest there and wait for his return.
As he left, Chu fully recalled her past. She realized with horror that she had killed many people and was a killer. She understood that Zheng had hidden her memory to protect her from this truth and that she had misunderstood him. She also realized that Zheng staying at the Escort Agency and returning to Tingqin Garden were all efforts to protect her and divert attention from her.
Back near where they were captured, Su Zhuozhuo and Jin Muqiu were worried about Baiwan (Chu). Su Zhuozhuo decided to wait there for Song Jianshan, while Jin Muqiu went on alone to search for her. Jin Muqiu was soon recognized by several martial artists who intended to capture her to lure out Qu Zheng and Jin Baiwan. She cried out for help. The Lord of Valley Junior, who was nearby, recognized her voice.
He started to rush to her aid, but Jueming reminded him of the rules of the Martial Arts Bet, which prevented him from meeting his wife (implied to be Jin Muqiu). Admonished, the Lord of Valley Junior quickly disguised himself before stepping in to rescue Jin Muqiu, dispersing her attackers. Jin Muqiu thanked the hero for saving her. She found his voice familiar and was surprised when he addressed her by her surname, Jin.
Remembering him, she realized he was Brother Ashu and understood he had to conceal his identity because of the Martial Arts Bet. Despite the circumstances, he offered to escort her, citing the danger posed by the Nonguple Palace's wanted orders and the gathering martial artists heading towards Tingqin Garden. Jin Muqiu was pleased by his offer. At the Tingqin Garden, the Host Jing Yuan had gathered all the Nonguple Palace disciples.
Members from various martial arts sects had also surrounded the entrance, demanding Qu Zheng and Chu surrender. Inside, Qu Zheng was making preparations and formulating a plan, unconcerned by the mounting pressure. After a prolonged wait, a masked woman emerged. She removed her mask, revealing herself as Chu. She declared that she was the person they were looking for, "A Chu," and provocatively asked if they weren to curious who held the real Puyuan Canon now.
Just then, Qu Zheng appeared. To the shock of many, Qu Zheng announced that the massacre of the Xu family and the theft of the Puyuan Canon were indeed his doing. He framed his actions as exposing the hypocrisy of the so-called righteous sects like Nonguple Palace, whom he claimed were the true villains. Chu protested, saying it wasn't true, and called him by his real name, Xu Yifei, revealing his true identity.
However, Qu Zheng, in a calculated move to protect Chu and shift blame onto himself, deliberately stabbed her. Seeing this, Qingyun and his followers could no longer stand by and charged forward. Amidst the ensuing chaos, Chu collapsed, unconscious. When Chu awoke, she immediately asked about Qu Zheng's condition. Jin Muqiu, bewildered by her concern after being stabbed, reassured her that he was safe. Song Jianshan had protected him, and he had retreated back to Tingqin Garden.
She explained that Qu Zheng was now viewed as a great villain, while Chu was seen as a hero for exposing him. Chu, tearfully, understood that Qu Zheng had done everything to take the blame and protect her. Meanwhile, Song Jianshan questioned Qu Zheng about whether sacrificing himself for Chu was worth it.
Qu Zheng firmly stated it was, as long as she was safe, adding that Jing Yuan would not have another opportunity to harm her, hinting at a decisive confrontation. Song Jianshan expressed concern about Qu Zheng's pain, but Qu Zheng dismissed him, insisting he was fine and telling him to leave. Alone, Qu Zheng reflected that since Chu had recovered her memories, he had to finish his conflict with Jing Yuan swiftly to ensure her safety.
Episode 25 Recap
Qu Zheng revealed his past to Jin Muqiu and Su Zhuozhuo, admitting he was once a secret killer for Nonuple Palace, kept and deceived by Jing Yuan into committing terrible acts against innocent people and eliminating his rivals. He explained that he knew Jing Yuan was behind everything. Jin Muqiu and Su Zhuozhuo understood that Qu Zheng had hurt Jin Baiwan as part of a plan to clear her name and protect her from suspicion.
Qu Zheng confirmed everything he did was for her. Song Jianshan went to deliver medicine to Qu Zheng but found his room empty. Song Jianshan recalled Qu Zheng previously saying that Jing Yuan would no longer have a chance to harm Jin Baiwan, and he realized something was seriously wrong. Around the same time, Jin Baiwan sensed someone near her door but saw no one when she looked.
A servant then brought her a pigeon transmission from Song Jianshan, stating that Qu Zheng was gone from Tingqin Garden and likely heading to Nonuple Palace to confront Jing Yuan. Reading the message, Jin Baiwan knew it was Qu Zheng who had been outside her room and realized he was hiding. She called out his name desperately. Hidden nearby, Qu Zheng heard her and felt his chest pain flare up again.
Sensing Qu Zheng was about to leave, Jin Baiwan reminded him of their engagement from five years ago, revealing she remembered everything, including that he was Xu Yifei, who gave her the fox and promised to be with her forever. She knew everything he did, including leaving her at the escort agency and stabbing her at Tingqin Garden, was for her.
She pleaded with him to show himself, saying she missed him and would never speak to him again if he left now. Qu Zheng finally appeared. Jin Baiwan immediately hugged him tightly, begging him not to go. Qu Zheng noted that she had returned to being like her former self, Chu.
When Qu Zheng turned to leave again, Jin Baiwan knocked him unconscious, stating that having recalled everything, she would not allow him to risk his life for her again and that this was her only chance to keep him. The next day, Jin Baiwan went alone to Nonuple Palace. Recognized as the former Envoy Xueyue, no one dared to stop her. Jing Yuan was surprised by her arrival, calling it suicidal.
Jin Baiwan greeted him formally as "Your Majesty" instead of "Master," explaining that she remembered everything, including how she became Envoy Xueyue, how he manipulated her into killing the innocent, ordered the massacre of the Xu family five years ago, and then tried to kill her. Jing Yuan questioned how she expected to leave alive after openly defying him. Jin Baiwan stated she had come to make a deal with her life.
She told him he didn't need to attend Qu Zheng's challenge, calling it a trap to force him to expose his evil skill related to the Puyuan Canon. She then produced two pages of scripture, shocking Jing Yuan. Jing Yuan threatened her, but Jin Baiwan countered that he could kill her, but he would never know if the scripture pages were real. Left speechless, Jing Yuan ordered her imprisoned in the dungeon, with no visitors allowed.
Later, Zi Jing expressed certainty that the scripture was fake, but Jing Yuan was unsure. Meanwhile, Qingyun secretly visited Jin Baiwan in the dungeon. From Qingyun, Jin Baiwan learned that Doctor Demon had been treating Jing Yuan. When she pressed for more details about Doctor Demon's whereabouts, Qingyun realized she was trying to gather information to help Qu Zheng. Heartbroken that she still cared so deeply for Qu Zheng, Qingyun left sadly.
Jin Baiwan resolved that finding Doctor Demon was the key to proving Qu Zheng's innocence and decided she must escape quickly. Jing Yuan encountered Qingyun leaving the dungeon and reprimanded him before going to see Jin Baiwan himself. Jing Yuan demanded to know if the scripture was genuine. Jin Baiwan didn't confirm, instead warning him that improper cultivation of the skill would lead to demon skill's backfire, possibly becoming possessed, or even dying.
She described the symptoms he likely experienced, such as chest pain like ants and prickling sensations when circulating energy. Jing Yuan reacted to her words, clearly suffering physical distress. Zi Jing immediately helped him leave and ordered someone to find Doctor Demon without delay. Jin Baiwan seized an opportunity to break out of the dungeon. Her martial arts skills were fully restored, allowing her to easily bypass the guards.
Her escape was finally challenged by Zi Jing, and the two fought fiercely to a stalemate. In a critical moment, Qu Zheng arrived and saved Jin Baiwan, quickly taking her away before Qingyun or Zi Jing could stop them. Qu Zheng scolded Jin Baiwan for risking her life, but she replied that she no longer wanted him to protect her because he had risked so much for her already. Moved by her words, they shared a passionate kiss.
They then regrouped with Jin Muqiu and Su Zhuozhuo. Jin Baiwan mentioned Doctor Demon, prompting Su Zhuozhuo to recall her eccentric uncle, Hu Qiqi, who was expelled from their sect twenty years ago and was known as Doctor Demon. Su Zhuozhuo said even her father admired his medical skill, although he was rumored to live in the dangerous and remote Black Spring Valley, a place filled with toxic fumes and mire.
They agreed that finding him was their most urgent task and set off. That night, as they rested, Song Jianshan asked Su Zhuozhuo to examine Qu Zheng for his recurring chest pain. Su Zhuozhuo was perplexed, finding his pulse normal and healthy, unable to detect any underlying condition, despite Qu Zheng confirming he still experienced pain which he dismissed as an old wound.
Episode 26 Recap
Qu Zheng reflected on the extent of Baiwan's sacrifice, going to the Nonguple Palace knowing the danger, all to clear his name. Baiwan explained she wasn't afraid because proving his innocence was paramount, but she feared never seeing him again. Seeing her safe and sound, Qu Zheng insisted she must never take such risks again, declaring he would rather die than lose her. They promised to stay together forever.
The group arrived at the Black Spring Valley and decided to split into three teams to find Hu Qiqi, also known as Doctor Demon. They planned to use signal fireworks, each with a different color, to notify others if they found Hu Qiqi or encountered danger. Qu Zheng and Baiwan took the middle path, Su Zhuozhuo and Song Jianshan headed northwest, and Nameless and Jin Muqiu went northeast.
Nameless was specifically asked to take care of Jin Muqiu, while Su Zhuozhuo jokingly accepted Song Jianshan's reluctant offer to look after her. Su Zhuozhuo and Song Jianshan also expressed concern about Qu Zheng's recent strange behavior and unexplained symptoms, hoping Doctor Demon could examine him. Su Zhuozhuo and Song Jianshan quickly found themselves lost, despite having only walked for half an hour.
Su Zhuozhuo blamed Song Jianshan's poor navigation, while he suggested they simply pick a direction and keep going, rationalizing that at least they would eventually get out of the valley, even if they didn't find Hu Qiqi. Meanwhile, Nameless warned Jin Muqiu to be careful of the complicated terrain and poisonous thorns, even making road signs to prevent them from getting lost. Jin Muqiu noted his thoughtful nature.
She casually inquired about his plans after their mission was complete, and he stated he intended to join the effort to fight Jing Yuan, seeing it as his duty, and would then leave. Jin Muqiu reacted with disappointment, lamenting that she'd rather be trapped if that were the case, but quickly dismissed her comment when he asked what she said.
Baiwan, adopting a decisive demeanor reminiscent of Chu, took the lead, warning Qu Zheng about Hu Qiqi's expertise in poison from the Yan School. She instructed Qu Zheng to stay close and step exactly in her footprints as she scouted ahead, emphasizing the need for caution. Qu Zheng observed this commanding side of her, acknowledging that this was how Chu truly was – vigorous and in control.
He assured her that he loved her in any form, whether she was a little cook or a female hero. As time passed without success, Jin Muqiu pretended to be scratched by poisonous thorns, expressing pain. Nameless immediately became concerned and moved to help her, instinctively reaching to remove his mask to suck out the poison. Jin Muqiu stopped him, pointing out that removing his mask would break the rules of the Martial Arts Bet.
Nameless realized she had known his identity since they first met in the woods. He removed his mask, declaring that rules and the Martial Arts Bet meant nothing compared to her. Jin Muqiu confessed that she had lied about being injured and regretted making the bet in anger at the martial arts lake battle, which forced him to stay by her side silently as Nameless. He affectionately called her a silly girl and told her he didn't blame her.
He proclaimed that he wanted to be with her forever, whether he was Yu Linfeng or Nameless. She asked again if he would leave, and he definitively stated he would not, wishing only to stay with her forever, even if it meant living incognito. Su Zhuozhuo and Song Jianshan eventually managed to get out of the woods, finding a small wooden cabin they believed to be Hu Qiqi's residence.
Excited by their discovery, they sent a signal firework to the other groups. Entering the cabin, they found signs of recent occupation, including a half-copied prescription with dry ink, suggesting Hu Qiqi had left shortly before their arrival, around the time they sent the signal. There were multiple footprints, indicating Su Zhuozhuo and Song Jianshan had entered without encountering anyone or any fight, but they were suddenly attacked by an unseen assailant and knocked unconscious.
Qu Zheng and Baiwan arrived first at the cabin but found it empty, with no trace of Su Zhuozhuo or Song Jianshan. Jin Muqiu and Nameless arrived shortly after, with Nameless having put his mask back on. The four searched the area and soon found the injured and unconscious Su Zhuozhuo and Song Jianshan tied up. Upon questioning, the pair explained they were ambushed. They then discovered Hu Qiqi's lifeless body.
Qu Zheng examined him and determined he had died from the internal force of the Puyuan Canon. Jing Yuan arrived, accusing Qu Zheng of killing Hu Qiqi. Qu Zheng and Baiwan denied the accusation, arguing that Hu Qiqi was Jing Yuan's last hope to prove his innocence. Qu Zheng confronted Jing Yuan, accusing him of slaughtering the thirty-nine members of the Xu family five years prior, practicing demonic skills, and deceiving his own disciples.
Jing Yuan, seeing his plan unraveling and realizing he was cornered, effectively admitted to killing Hu Qiqi, stating he should have killed Qu Zheng, the last surviving member of the Xu family, years ago. As other martial artists, who had been alerted by a message from Qu Zheng, began to arrive, they recognized Jing Yuan's true nature and denounced him for his crimes and for framing Qu Zheng.
Jing Yuan became desperate, claiming they were no different from him in their desire for power. The others silenced him and vowed to eliminate him to protect the martial world. Jing Yuan boasted about his demonic power and attacked. A battle ensued, with Qu Zheng and Baiwan joining the fight against Jing Yuan. Due to the backlash from practicing the incomplete Puyuan Canon, Jing Yuan was quickly defeated.
Just as he was about to be captured, Qingyun appeared and rescued him, carrying him away. With his meridians severed and beyond saving, Jing Yuan lay dying. He confessed to Qingyun that the incomplete Puyuan Canon was dangerous to practice and that the missing pages Qu Zheng possessed held the method to resolve the backlash. He admitted he killed Hu Qiqi to protect his secret from the martial world.
He told Qingyun that he must now be decisive as the Young Host and regretted teaching him part of the Canon at the martial arts lake battle. Appointing Qingyun as the new Palace Master, Jing Yuan demanded that he avenge him by killing Chu and Qu Zheng and that he expand the Nonguple Palace. Qingyun agreed. Later, Zi Jing found a grieving Qingyun. Qingyun stated he no longer had a father.
Zi Jing pledged her unwavering loyalty and promised to gather the disciples to help him avenge Jing Yuan and lead the Nonguple Palace. Following Jing Yuan's exposure, the martial artists acknowledged his villainy and credited Qu Zheng with revealing the truth. While the other factions prepared to deal with the aftermath, Qu Zheng stated he had something important to do and left with Baiwan. They visited the graves of Qu Zheng's parents.
He told them that he had finally avenged their family and that the souls of the thirty-nine members of the Xu family could finally rest in peace. Baiwan, addressing them as her parents-in-law, vowed to always stay by Qu Zheng's side and take good care of him. Qu Zheng also promised to treat Baiwan well and live a happy life with her.
They decided to leave their past troubles behind, agreeing that from now on, he would simply be called Qu Zheng, and she would only be called Baiwan, discarding their old names associated with past hardships and identities, embracing their future together.
Episode 27 Recap
Jin Muqiu met secretly with Yu Linfeng. Jin Muqiu was relieved that their meeting had gone unnoticed, but Yu Linfeng expressed concern that the Martial Arts Bet between their families had not been resolved, making their private meetings risky for her. Jin Muqiu blamed herself for making the bet initially but declared she was determined to find a way to break it. Yu Linfeng questioned if they truly could not see each other until then.
Jin Muqiu acknowledged that her "Brother Shu" was a man who always followed the rules, and she would follow them with him, but declared she had one more thing to do first. She then removed Yu Linfeng's mask and kissed him, confirming that even if they couldn't meet, her heart would not change, and she would marry no one but Yu Linfeng. Just as they shared a moment, Head Escort Jin, Jin Muqiu's father, appeared and separated them forcefully.
He sarcastically addressed Yu Linfeng, revealing he had seen through his disguise back in Black Spring Valley and knew he was Yu Linfeng. He berated Yu Linfeng for daring to approach his daughter again after being warned. Jin Muqiu tried to take the blame, but her father turned his anger towards her.
He reminded her how he had always indulged her, including her marriage, divorce, and the subsequent bet made at the martial arts assembly, which stipulated she would never see Yu Linfeng again. He declared that since she had made these choices, he could not stand by and watch her violate the bet, which would be a grave mistake.
Ignoring Yu Linfeng's pleas, he dragged Jin Muqiu away, warning Yu Linfeng that stopping him would be a public violation of the bet. Yu Linfeng called out to Jin Muqiu, vowing to find a way to break the bet and bring her back. After Jin Muqiu was taken away, Yu Linfeng prepared to leave, addressing Baiwan and Qu Zheng. He thanked them for not revealing his identity earlier when they had clearly recognized him.
He stated he was heading to Jin's Escort Agency to persuade Head Escort Jin to agree to his marriage with Jin Muqiu. Qu Zheng stopped him, pointing out that the main obstacle was the Martial Arts Bet itself. Persuading Head Escort Jin would be useless as long as the bet remained.
Qu Zheng revealed there was a way to resolve the bet, though it was extremely dangerous: sign a life and death contract and challenge the top five Grandmasters of the Alliance of Martial Arts one by one. If successful, the bet would be broken. He mentioned that no one had attempted this since the rule was established. Yu Linfeng declared that as long as he could break the bet and be with Jin Muqiu, he was not afraid of death.
He announced he was going to Lake Town to initiate the challenge and bid them farewell. Baiwan remarked on the difficulties faced by Jin Muqiu and Yu Linfeng and suggested that after finishing their current tasks, they should go to Lake Town to help them. Qu Zheng, however, felt that this ordeal was perhaps a necessary trial for the couple.
He stated that after everything they had been through, he only wanted to focus on resolving matters between himself and Baiwan. Baiwan, surprised, asked what issues they had. Qu Zheng reminded her of the time she left Tingqin Garden after he brought her back to be the "wife of Lord". Baiwan became shy, promising she would not leave this time and that the place where Zheng was, was her home.
Su Zhuozhuo and Song Jianshan searched frantically through medical books brought from Black Spring Valley. Su Zhuozhuo reported that Qu Zheng's pulse seemed normal, leading her to suspect he was poisoned. She believed Hu Qiqi's collection of unusual books might hold a clue. After searching, she found a description of "Love Poison," an exotic, banned poison designed to separate lovers.
Its peculiarity was that the poisoner controlled the victim with their own life, and the victim would suffer intense pain, like being bitten by countless ants, whenever they felt affection for the person they loved. Su Zhuozhuo realized this explained Qu Zheng's strange behavior, especially when Jin Muqiu was mentioned earlier, and why he asked her to hide the truth. However, the book only listed various poisons without providing antidotes.
While Su Zhuozhuo expressed confidence in finding a solution, she needed time. " Later", Qu Zheng showed signs of chest pain, which he tried to dismiss. Su Zhuozhuo intervened, separating him from Baiwan under the pretense of needing Baiwan's help copying prescriptions, making up excuses about Jin Muqiu leaving and needing company. Baiwan insisted on going to Qu Zheng, but Su Zhuozhuo blocked her, citing her mother's advice about not meeting before marriage and offering Song Jianshan's company instead.
Baiwan grew suspicious, sensing Su Zhuozhuo was hiding something. While Su Zhuozhuo went to get snacks to distract her, Baiwan accidentally knocked over some books and found a section titled "Wan Jiang poisonous insect? Detoxifying Method," revealing the truth about the Love Poison and its effects. She immediately went to find Qu Zheng. Qu Zheng asked why she was there, maintaining he was fine, but then he collapsed, showing intense pain.
Baiwan realized he was poisoned because of her presence and offered to leave to ease his suffering. Qu Zheng grabbed her, forbidding her from ever speaking of leaving. He confessed that the worst pain he had endured was the suffering of missing her during the five years she was absent. He declared that without her, his life had no meaning, and he would never let her go again.
Baiwan hesitated, recalling his past dishonesty, but he admitted he had been poisoned with the Love Poison and asked if she would leave him now after they had come so far. Overcome by his words and the pain he was clearly in, Baiwan tearfully promised she would not leave him. Immediately after, Qu Zheng completely collapsed. Su Zhuozhuo arrived and began treating him with needles. Baiwan turned to Song Jianshan for an explanation.
Song Jianshan deduced that the poison was likely administered earlier, possibly at the martial arts assembly, suggesting Qingyun or Jing Yuan as the culprit. Baiwan believed it was Qingyun and wanted to find him for the antidote, but Song Jianshan pointed out that Qingyun would not help, and his sect, Nonguple Palace, was destroyed, making him impossible to find. Song Jianshan reassured Baiwan that Su Zhuozhuo had sent messages to the elders of Yan School for help.
Baiwan stayed by Qu Zheng's side, vowing that even if she couldn't get close, she would never leave him, believing nothing could separate them after all they had endured. As Qu Zheng slowly recovered, Baiwan attempted to keep a distance from him, following Su Zhuozhuo's advice to avoid stirring his emotions and worsening the poison's effects. Qu Zheng, however, actively sought her presence.
Su Zhuozhuo and Song Jianshan began supervising the couple to ensure they maintained distance, with Su Zhuozhuo emphasizing that Qu Zheng must not feel any affection towards Baiwan, as love was what triggered the poison. Baiwan pondered how to make Qu Zheng feel indifferent or even dislike her, recalling plots from Jin Muqiu's novels about relationships turning sour. She decided to employ methods to make him tired of her presence.
She spent an entire day just sitting and staring at him. Qu Zheng, instead of being annoyed, found her eyes beautiful and even expressed hope that their future daughter would inherit them, frustrating Baiwan. Realizing simple staring was ineffective, she went to Qu Zheng's room, declaring she would sleep there, clarifying she would take a separate spot while he slept on the bed.
She engaged in behaviors designed to seem unappealing, like guarding her snacks possessively and gambling recklessly, even stating she would lose everything. Qu Zheng remained unfazed, offering to lose everything with her. She confronted him, asking why he wasn't angry and didn't find her rude or annoying. He simply found her "cutely incorrigible." Her attempts to make him dislike her failed completely, making her wonder about Jin Muqiu's novelistic methods and how Jin Muqiu herself was doing.
Meanwhile, Jin Muqiu was indeed writing a sequel to her "Nameless Grandmaster" novel while waiting for Yu Linfeng. Head Escort Jin found her writing and expressed his disapproval, reminding her that the Martial Arts Bet made a future with "that brat" impossible. Jin Muqiu affirmed her unwavering love for Yu Linfeng and her commitment to waiting for him, having fully decided their fate was intertwined. Head Escort Jin reiterated the bet's long-standing, unbreakable nature.
A messenger then arrived with urgent news: Yu Linfeng had gone to Lake Town and struck the challenge drum to break the Martial Arts Bet. Head Escort Jin received an urgent letter confirming this. Jin Muqiu was initially excited, but Head Escort Jin quickly explained the grave conditions: it required a life and death contract and challenging all five Grandmasters of the Alliance of Martial Arts, including himself and Yu Fei.
He dismissed it as an impossible, suicidal act, asking if she thought Yu Linfeng could defeat five experienced grandmasters simultaneously. Despite calling Yu Linfeng foolish, he acknowledged his bravery in attempting the challenge, stating that once the drum was struck, there was no turning back. He announced he would go to Lake Town to confront Yu Linfeng but assured Jin Muqiu he had the situation under control. Jin Muqiu worried for Yu Linfeng's safety.
Episode 28 Recap
Yu Linfeng from Taoyuan Valley stepped onto the platform to challenge the top five Grandmasters of the Alliance of Martial Arts. His goal was to cancel the Martial Arts Bet with Miss Jin Muqiu of Jin's Escort Agency. His challenge drew a large crowd, including Jin Muqiu, who concealed herself within the onlookers.
Despite the battle drum sounding, Yu Linfeng's mother pleaded with him to return to Taoyuan Valley, fearing he would die if he signed the life and death contract. However, Yu Linfeng was resolute, stating that a man of Taoyuan Valley would never show cowardice. Standing opposite his father, Lord Yu Fei, Yu Linfeng acknowledged his father's teachings on proper conduct and avoiding loose ends, admitting he had followed them precisely.
Yet, he confessed he had not been truly happy until meeting Jin Muqiu, who showed him the joy of making heart decisions and seeking dreams. He acknowledged she might not meet all the requirements for a Young Mistress of Taoyuan Valley but declared her his love and that he must be with her.
He clarified that his challenge was not an act of lawlessness but a way to prove Jin Muqiu was not someone who made him break rules; rather, she taught him how to uphold his promises. He stated the battle was for both her and himself. Lord Yu Fei, seeing his son's depth of feeling and determination, expressed his understanding.
He agreed not to stand in the way of Yu Linfeng and Miss Jin if their destiny was to be together, and to the surprise of many, declared he was giving in. Yu Linfeng thanked his father. The other three grandmasters present, witnessing Lord Yu's decision and Yu Linfeng's sincerity, also withdrew from the challenge, expressing their reluctance to break up such a devoted couple. Yu Linfeng gratefully thanked them.
This left only Head Escort Jin, Jin Gunan, who had no intention of letting Yu Linfeng off so easily. Head Escort Jin stepped up, ready to face Yu Linfeng. He sternly addressed Yu Linfeng, vowing revenge for the pain Yu Linfeng had caused his daughter. Yu Linfeng humbly accepted the challenge, expressing his readiness to learn from Head Escort Jin. Jin Gunan proceeded to deliver three punishing blows.
The first was for Jin Muqiu traveling a great distance to marry him and making many sacrifices, which Yu Linfeng failed to cherish. Yu Linfeng accepted the fault and promised his unwavering devotion to her from then on, ensuring she would never suffer again. The second blow was for her hardships with his mother in Taoyuan Valley, emphasizing that resolving such issues was a man's responsibility.
Yu Linfeng again admitted his fault and promised to prevent any future disputes between his mother and Jin Muqiu. The third punch was for burning her novels, highlighting that writing was her greatest joy and he should support her passion as a man. Yu Linfeng confessed his blindness to her talent and promised to wholeheartedly support her writing and become her biggest fan, acknowledging her novels' popularity.
Witnessing this, Jin Muqiu cried out for her father to stop, reminding him he had promised to know his limits. Jin Gunan insisted he knew when to stop. Jin Muqiu then stepped forward to shield Yu Linfeng, pleading with her father not to make things difficult for him. She admitted her own past willfulness, insincerity, and poor communication with his family but affirmed their genuine love and desire to lift the bet.
She declared that if her father hurt Yu Linfeng, she would no longer consider herself his daughter. Doting on his daughter, Head Escort Jin conceded, asking if they were truly prepared to ensure a harmonious marriage. Both Yu Linfeng and Jin Muqiu affirmed they were. With a sigh, Jin Gunan formally gave in, though he playfully commented that Jin Muqiu needed to learn how to manage her husband.
The Battle of Martial Arts by the Lake officially announced the cancellation of the Martial Arts Bet between Yu Linfeng and Jin Muqiu. The couple, their bond now free from the bet, joyfully embraced. Meanwhile, Baiwan continued her efforts to make Qu Zheng despise her. She returned late one evening, smelling of alcohol, and claimed she had been drinking with men, describing them as handsome as characters from novels.
She believed this tactic, by temporarily making him resent her, would prevent his love poison from flaring up. However, Qu Zheng understood her true intent was to calm his heart and protect him. He explained that her actions had the opposite effect, making him intensely jealous and worsening his love poison and heartbreak. Baiwan quickly confessed she hadn't been drinking with anyone but had only sprinkled wine on herself, revealing it was Song Jianshan's idea.
Qu Zheng commented that he knew his wife wouldn't devise such a trick. He told her his heart was hurting and he couldn't sleep without her by his side. Baiwan, suspecting he was trying to manipulate her, asked if he was lying. Qu Zheng, acting wounded by her suspicion after she had done wrong, expressed that he knew his actions caused her pain, but being near him seemed to exacerbate his condition.
He lamented that he would have a sleepless night alone. Confused and concerned, Baiwan sought advice from Su Zhuozhuo and Song Jianshan. Su Zhuozhuo suggested that Qu Zheng was simply being cute and that Baiwan should coax him, advising her to remember what made him happiest in the past and repeat it. Inspired, Baiwan devised a new plan.
She sent a small note to Qu Zheng, proposing they meet in the courtyard that evening and promising to make him very happy. Reading her message, Qu Zheng smiled. In the Nonuple Palace, Qingyun had captured several traitors who had attempted to escape. He announced that avenging the former host was the priority and seemed to offer forgiveness initially. However, he then used the Puyuan Canon to absorb their inner power.
Zi Jing witnessed this with alarm and warned him that since he hadn't acquired the remaining pages of the canon, using it without the solution would harm his body. Qingyun dismissed her warning, stating he didn't care about the solution or the Nonuple Palace itself. When another person advised him to take care of his health, Qingyun killed him. Qingyun insisted he could handle the backlash from the demon skill.
He told Zi Jing he had more important matters to attend to, and if she cared so much about the Nonuple Palace, he would give it to her before departing. Zi Jing was left stunned by his indifference and cruelty. Qu Zheng arrived at the courtyard for his meeting with Baiwan. She appeared in a red dress, holding the red string she had used before.
She explained that she had found a way to both make him happy and free him from the torment of the love poison, asking him to stop being angry and heartbroken so they could be together forever. She began to dance for him. Qu Zheng, touched by her efforts, said her dance already dispelled his anger and offered to play music for her, choosing a melody from their past.
As they performed together, Qu Zheng was overcome by the love poison. Seizing this moment, Qingyun appeared, attacked Qu Zheng, incapacitating him, and knocked Baiwan unconscious before carrying her away. Qu Zheng was too weak to pursue. Baiwan awoke to find herself back in the wooden house with Qingyun. He called it "their home" and claimed she belonged there, reminding her of a broken promise from five years ago.
He declared he could forgive everything that happened if she would just stay with him. Baiwan firmly rejected his advances, telling him she only saw him as a brother and that Qu Zheng was the only one she loved. Enraged, Qingyun denied her words, insisting she had promised to return to him and be the first face he saw upon regaining his sight. He demanded to know why her return was like this.
Baiwan pleaded with him to stop practicing the demon skills, warning he would suffer the same fate as his father. Qingyun coldly stated his father was dead and he was now the new, most powerful host of the Nonuple Palace. He proposed they be together to avenge his father and revitalize the palace, returning to their past life.
Baiwan countered that their past, including the Nonuple Palace, was built on mistakes and wrongdoings committed while they were manipulated by Jing Yuan, and they could not continue down that path. Hurt, Qingyun questioned his own significance and the vows they had made. Baiwan reiterated that her feelings for him had always been brotherly and her heart belonged only to Qu Zheng.
As Qingyun tried to prevent her from leaving, Qu Zheng arrived, declaring he was there to rescue his wife and bring her home to Tingqin Garden. Qu Zheng warned Qingyun that the demon force's backlash was still affecting him, and using his powers forcefully would lead to his death. Qingyun ignored the warning and attacked. Zi Jing suddenly intervened, shielding Qingyun and taking a blow intended for him.
Despite her sacrifice, Qingyun was severely injured and tragically lost his sight once more, crying out that he could not see Chu (Baiwan) again. Qu Zheng told Qingyun he wasn't inherently evil but had chosen a terrible path. Qingyun declared nothing mattered to him but Baiwan. Qu Zheng warned that his obsession would bring him only endless pain.
Qu Zheng then offered Qingyun the remaining pages of the Puyuan Canon containing the solution, explaining it could save his life, even if it wouldn't restore his former power. Qingyun saw this as a trick to cure Qu Zheng's love poison and refused it as an insult from the man who killed his father and "stole" his love.
He defiantly stated he didn't care about the solution and vowed that as long as Qu Zheng suffered from the love poison, he would never be able to be with Baiwan. Qu Zheng declared their confrontation was over and that he would not attack a blind and powerless man. He announced that he and Baiwan would return to Tingqin Garden and send the solution to Nonuple Palace. Qingyun scoffed, challenging him to kill him instead of pretending to be merciful.
As Qu Zheng and Baiwan prepared to leave, Baiwan paused and addressed "Chu," placing a blank tablet and stating it belonged to "Chu," who should be buried there. She proclaimed that from this moment, the identity of "Chu" ceased to exist in the world, symbolizing her farewell to her past. Zi Jing tried to stop Baiwan from leaving but then turned to comfort the injured and sightless Qingyun.
She offered to leave the martial arts world with him, find a doctor, and live a simple life, promising to care for him forever. Qingyun, broken but not alone, acknowledged that he still had her.
Episode 29 (Ending) Recap
Zijing did not resist as Qingyun absorbed her internal energy, even loosening her grip. Qingyun was confused by her lack of resistance, and Zijing stated that she did not regret it because it was him. Qingyun suddenly realized something and stopped. He apologized to Zijing. Zijing thought he had changed his mind, but the next moment, Qingyun drew his sword and took his own life. Zijing was unable to stop him and held him in grief, but he was gone.
Baiwan thanked Qu Zheng for sparing Qingyun's life earlier. Qu Zheng said that Qingyun, like him, had been deceived and done many bad things. Now, being blind was a deserved punishment. More importantly, Qu Zheng could not bear to see Baiwan sad over another man. Baiwan and Qu Zheng hoped Qingyun could repent and start anew, believing he was not inherently evil. Baiwan then remembered Qu Zheng was still poisoned and suggested they maintain distance.
Qu Zheng insisted the forest was dangerous and he worried about her safety, proposing Baiwan walk ahead while he followed slowly. Baiwan agreed and walked in front, unaware that Qu Zheng was clutching his chest in pain. After a while, Baiwan noticed Qu Zheng's footsteps had stopped and turned to ask what was wrong. Qu Zheng saw her distress and offered his shoulder if she wanted to cry.
Baiwan finally broke down, expressing her deep sadness over Qingyun, who was her only family in Nonuple Palace and whom she had treated as a younger brother since childhood. She regretted never speaking kindly or smiling at him after they reunited, despite him searching for her for five years. Qu Zheng wanted to comfort her but collapsed, unable to control himself. Baiwan brought Qu Zheng back to Tingqin Garden. He remained unconscious.
Su Zhuozhuo examined him and stated that the poisonous insect was gone. She explained that the poison was controlled by the blood of the person who administered it, meaning Qingyun, the poisoner, must have died. Although the poison itself was gone, the residual effects had severely damaged Qu Zheng's heart. He needed time to recover and would only wake up on his own. Baiwan stayed by Qu Zheng's bedside, worried as he remained unconscious all day.
She held his hand and spoke to him, trying to rouse him. Finally, Qu Zheng woke up. Baiwan was overcome with emotion and cried out excitedly, preparing to fetch Su Zhuozhuo. Qu Zheng stopped her, saying that after everything they had been through, he only wanted to be with her and spend the rest of their lives together in Tingqin Garden. Time passed, and Qu Zheng's health fully recovered.
He and Baiwan lived a life of peace and contentment as they desired. Their roles in the household were clearly defined. Qu Zheng was famously devoted to his wife, while Baiwan managed the affairs of Tingqin Garden with efficiency and order, making their life very fulfilling. During a routine meeting, Baiwan was formally put in charge of all finances and property leases.
When informed about tenant farmers who hadn't paid rent due to a recent flood, Baiwan showed compassion, prioritizing their well-being over the rent and planning to check on their situation herself, a decision Qu Zheng praised for her kindness and organization. Meanwhile, in a quiet corner, Zijing had gathered the children from the disbanded Nonuple Palace and brought them to Qingyun's former residence. She explained that the palace no longer existed and they were no longer disciples.
She encouraged them to focus on their studies so they could understand and choose the right path in life, unlike her who only realized these things after wasting half her life. She reflected on Qingyun, still caring for him, and talked to his tombstone, remembering his fondness for Baiyu pastry and referring to him as someone she deeply loved. Happiness also found Yu and Jin Muqiu.
Their relationship was harmonious, and Jin Muqiu even shared a little secret with her mother-in-law. The mother-in-law had started reading Jin Muqiu's novels and secretly enjoyed them, even giving writing advice and excusing her from daily formalities in exchange for faster updates, urging her to keep it secret from her husband. Yu overheard their conversation and was happy. Su Zhuozhuo and Song Jianshan were also approaching marriage. The three couples gathered at Tingqin Garden for the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Jin Muqiu shared the joyous news of her pregnancy, leading to lighthearted speculation about whether she might be having twins. The women conversed, discussing their careers and newfound independence, while the men prepared mooncakes. Qu Zheng expressed his desire for a daughter like Baiwan, while Yu initially mentioned being too busy for a baby but was quickly corrected. Song Jianshan proudly shared how people viewed him with respect now that he was known as Su Zhuozhuo's husband.
The men comically lamented being controlled by their wives, contrasting it with traditional ideas of men being in charge. Su Zhuozhuo overheard Song Jianshan agreeing with the men and playfully chased him. The women confidently asserted their authority and decided to go inspect the mooncakes the men were making. Amidst the festivities, Qu Zheng and Baiwan shared a quiet moment, reaffirming their desire for a simple, happy life together until they grow old.
They exchanged solemn vows, with Qu Zheng swearing before the heavens to be Baiwan's husband and promising to love only her for the rest of his life. This moment solidified their bond and the tranquil life they had built.
