Fated Hearts Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Fated Hearts Synopsis
During the Battle of Pingling, after Jin Xiu Kingdom's army was defeated, Fu Yixiao, the red-clad archer, shot a world-shaking arrow that struck Feng Suige, the crown prince of Sushah, which immediately reversed the situation. However, shortly after the battle, Fu Yixiao unexpectedly fell off a cliff and lost all her memories. At the same time, Feng Suige, who was also being hunted and constantly on the run, accidentally meets Fu Yixiao again at the Zhengnian Mountain Villa.
Seeing the amnesiac Fu Yixiao, Feng Suige finds the situation suspicious. He decides to keep her by his side in order to uncover the mastermind behind all these events. Together, they embark on a journey to expose the conspiracy between the two nations, fighting against villains, and uncovering the truth. From mutual use to mutual love, their relationship becomes a mixture of sweet and painful moments, filled with growth and inspiration.
Fated Hearts Recap
Episode 1 Recap
The conflict between the neighboring Jinxiu and Susha Kingdoms was fueled by deep-seated enmity and constant warfare. Feng Suige, the First Prince of Susha, led his army to attack Jinxiu's border, the Zhennan Pass. With overwhelming force, his army swiftly approached the city gates. However, Fu Yixiao, a red-clad female general of Jinxiu, shot Feng Suige with an arrow, turning the tide of the battle and causing him to retreat.
During his retreat, Feng Suige and his forces were ambushed by masked assassins. His subordinate, Lu Ke, instructed Gu Yu to take Feng Suige and flee while he stayed behind to cover their escape. Despite repelling one group, another wave of assassins pursued Feng Suige's carriage. Realizing that ambushes were strategically placed along their route, Feng Suige’s carriage was eventually forced towards a cliff.
Unable to stop, the carriage plunged over the edge, and the masked assassins, believing their mission accomplished, withdrew. On the night of their great victory at the Battle of Ping Ling, where Jinxiu’s Zhennan Army had repelled Feng Suige’s Susha forces, Fu Yixiao, who had played the pivotal role, mysteriously disappeared. Meanwhile, Fu Yixiao found herself surrounded and gravely wounded by masked assassins in a forest.
Despite her injuries, she fought fiercely, but the sheer number of attackers forced her to seek temporary refuge. Elsewhere, Ling Xueying, the young mistress of Zhengnian Villa, was gathering herbs on the mountain with her attendant, Eleven, when they stumbled upon numerous corpses, leaving them terrified. An assassin then cornered Ling Xueying, demanding to know if she had seen a woman in red.
Ling Xueying denied it, and the assassin prepared to kill her, but Fu Yixiao suddenly appeared, drawing the assassin's attention and leading them away. After a fierce struggle, Fu Yixiao eliminated all her pursuers but collapsed from exhaustion. Ling Xueying rushed to her side, but Fu Yixiao warned her to stay away before losing consciousness. At Zhengnian Villa, injured Susha and Jinxiu soldiers bickered intensely.
Mr. Qin, a senior figure at the villa, intervened, sternly reminding them of Zhengnian Villa's strict rule against violence within its premises, a rule endorsed by both Susha's King and Jinxiu's Empress. He urged them to set aside their animosity and seek treatment. Ling Xueying, a skilled physician, took Fu Yixiao back to the villa and immediately began her complex treatment, involving prismatic needles, surgical blades, and morus string.
Eleven observed the demanding process, noting that Ling Xueying had worked tirelessly for three days and nights to save Fu Yixiao, who had suffered a head injury, displaced internal organs, and shattered bones and tendons in her left hand, in addition to her other wounds. Unbeknownst to his pursuers, Feng Suige had survived the carriage fall by jumping out just before it plunged over the cliff, hiding in the dense foliage.
His arrow wound was too deep for the local physician to heal, and realizing he couldn't make it back to Susha, he decided to seek refuge at a forbidden medical pool located in the back mountains of Zhengnian Villa, a place he believed could save his life. Before heading there, he ordered his spies in Jinxiu to spare no effort in finding Fu Yixiao and told Gu Yu to find Yun Fang and reorganize their remaining troops.
Back in Susha, Feng Suige’s defeat led to heated debates between the pro-war and pro-peace factions. Prime Minister Zhuang Shen advised the Emperor to await Feng Suige's safe return to understand the reasons for the defeat before assigning any rewards or punishments. Zhuang Ming, the Prime Minister's nephew, questioned why they shouldn't seize this opportunity to discredit Feng Suige. Zhuang Shen, sensing his nephew's malicious intent and likely involvement in Feng Suige's ambush, angrily rebuked him, refusing to be implicated.
Meanwhile, in Jinxiu, Prince Zhennan, Xia Jingshi, relentlessly searched for Fu Yixiao near the cliff where she was last seen. His subordinates reported finding no trace of her, suggesting she might have been swept away by the river, but Xia Jingshi refused to believe it, ordering them to expand the search to the ends of the earth. Fu Yixiao eventually awoke at Zhengnian Villa but, due to her head injury, suffered from amnesia.
She couldn't recall her name or who had shot her. Ling Xueying noted that the arrow wound on her left shoulder suggested she was shot from within five paces, implying the attacker was someone she knew well, possibly a trusted individual. With conventional medicine proving insufficient for her severe injuries, Ling Xueying decided to take Fu Yixiao to the forbidden medical pool in the back mountains.
This pool contained rare medicinal herbs, including saffron from beyond the pass and Tianshan snow lotus from frozen lands, and was known for its miraculous healing properties for external wounds. Ling Xueying also gave Fu Yixiao a Primordial Qi Consolidating Powder, explaining its powerful effects. Fu Yixiao, trusting Ling Xueying, took the medicine. Unbeknownst to them, Feng Suige had also arrived at the same medical pool, separated from Fu Yixiao only by a rockery.
Later, Xiao Weiran, military advisor of the Zhennan Army, and Ning Fei, a guard officer from Prince Zhennan's Mansion, led soldiers into Zhengnian Villa, searching for Fu Yixiao. Ling Xueying confronted them, accusing them of being bandits for their unauthorized intrusion and reminding them of the villa's neutrality. When Ning Fei pressed, claiming to be Fu Yixiao's brother and expressing concern for her injuries, Ling Xueying expressed distrust, citing the prevalence of betrayal and backstabbing in the world.
She firmly refused to hand over anyone to them, especially given their aggressive tactics, and reiterated the villa’s role in saving countless lives from both kingdoms. Unable to find Fu Yixiao, Ning Fei and Xiao Weiran eventually retreated. Soon after, Fu Yixiao encountered Feng Suige at the medical pool. He fainted from his severe injuries. Upon waking, he recognized her.
Seeing her own portrait among his belongings, Fu Yixiao realized her name was Fu Yixiao, but due to her amnesia, she did not recognize Feng Suige as her enemy. Feng Suige quickly grasped her condition and began to deceive her, claiming to be her friend and that his own grave injuries were sustained while saving her. Fu Yixiao remained suspicious.
To manipulate her further, Feng Suige recounted the story of the Battle of Ping Ling, reminding her that she was a Jinxiu hero for shooting the Susha First Prince, a man known as the "Killer God of Susha." When she asked for the prince's name, he deliberately revealed it to be "Feng Suige," the very name he had used to introduce himself as her friend. Just as she processed the betrayal, Feng Suige’s reinforcements arrived, surrounding her.
With his trap sprung, Feng Suige taunted her, admitting he would not have made a move without ensuring his scheme was foolproof. Realizing the full extent of his deception, Fu Yixiao branded him despicable before his men rendered her unconscious.
Episode 2 Recap
Ling Xueying and her maid arrived at the forbidden area behind Zhengnian Villa and were intercepted by Feng Suige's guards, who promptly tied them up. While in captivity, Ling Xueying's maid recognized the injured woman they had brought back, exclaiming that she was the Red-Clad General, Fu Yixiao, whose actions led to Susha's crushing defeat in the Battle of Pingling. The maid worried that Feng Suige would not spare her.
Ling Xueying requested Feng Suige to show mercy and allow Fu Yixiao to recuperate at Zhengnian Villa, explaining that Fu Yixiao had saved her life after she encountered trouble on Tiangeng Mountain, where Fu Yixiao was already badly injured and suffering from amnesia. Feng Suige, however, ignored her plea, stating it was pointless to waste valuable medicine on someone already dying. He took the amnesiac Fu Yixiao away. Feng Suige then tasked his subordinate, Yun Fang, to investigate Tiangeng Mountain.
The investigation revealed signs of a struggle in the forest, with most traces deliberately erased. However, a corpse found by the river bore a Jinxiu waist token. Combined with observations of a fall from a height after an arrow injury, Feng Suige concluded that Fu Yixiao had been shot and fell from a cliff, miraculously surviving but losing her memory, only to be pursued by assassins.
Yun Fang expressed confusion, noting Fu Yixiao's high standing as a hero of Jinxiu and close aide to the Prince of Zhennan, Xia Jingshi, making it inconceivable that someone from Jinxiu would target her. This confirmed Feng Suige's suspicion that someone in Jinxiu wanted Fu Yixiao dead. Meanwhile, in Susha, Prime Minister Zhuang was seen lamenting his inability to openly honor his son, Jingheng, who was a General of Cavalry at a young age.
His foster son, Zhuang He, arrived late, prompting criticism from Prime Minister Zhuang for his irresponsible behavior. Zhuang Ming, the Vice Minister of Justice and Prime Minister Zhuang's nephew, later warned Zhuang He not to celebrate too soon, as Feng Suige's body had not been found after his carriage plunged down a 300-meter cliff, despite Zhuang He's assurance that Feng Suige could not have survived.
Zhuang Ming also cautioned Zhuang He that Prime Minister Zhuang was unaware of the assassination attempt and would disapprove of such reckless actions. Zhuang He expressed confidence that news of Feng Suige's death would soon reach Yujing, allowing him to gain Prime Minister Zhuang's favor and consolidate the Zhuang family's power in Susha. In the imperial palace, Emperor Feng Pingcheng was displeased by flowery, unhelpful memorials from ministers.
His eunuch noted Prime Minister Zhuang's unusual silence regarding the Pingling defeat, especially with the Second Prince's coming-of-age ceremony approaching. An urgent report arrived, revealing that Feng Suige had been ambushed and fallen off a cliff, his fate unknown. The Emperor, unmoved, declared that if Feng Suige could not survive this trial, he was unworthy of being his son and refused to send a search party.
A flashback revealed the Prince of Zhennan, Xia Jingshi, proposing to Fu Yixiao with his mother's bracelet as a betrothal gift, vowing eternal devotion. Fu Yixiao, however, requested he present it after she returned victorious from the Battle of Pingling.
Despite his deep feelings for Fu Yixiao, who disappeared after the battle, Xia Jingshi received an imperial decree: Jinxiu would cease hostilities with Susha for the sake of its people, and Xia Jingshi was ordered to marry the Princess of Susha. With a heavy heart, he accepted the decree. Feng Suige subjected Fu Yixiao to harsh questioning and torture, including whipping and waterboarding, to test her amnesia and uncover the truth.
He noted a change in her demeanor, realizing she had recalled some memories. He explained that someone in Jinxiu wanted her dead, suggesting her ordeal was no accident, and demanded she reveal what she knew, stating it was the only reason he would spare her life. Fu Yixiao retorted with "47" and bit Feng Suige's arm in retaliation.
Despite his guards' demands to kill her, Feng Suige stopped them, asserting that the Battle of Pingling was more complex than it seemed, and Fu Yixiao held the key to unraveling a mystery crucial to both their survival. He then personally tended to her severe back wounds, applying medicine and dismissing her objections about propriety, stating death was too simple an escape and she should treasure the second chance granted by fate.
His subordinates were surprised, noting he had never personally dressed anyone's wounds before and questioning his motives for such severe initial punishment followed by gentle care. Upon learning that Feng Suige was still alive, Zhuang He panicked and sought help from Zhuang Ming. Zhuang Ming advised Zhuang He to proactively strike first.
He suggested using the Feng Battalion soldiers as scapegoats for the Pingling defeat, arguing that the Emperor and court would demand accountability for the unexpected loss after breaking through Zhennan Pass. If Feng Suige's men were implicated and fell into their hands, Zhuang Ming believed they could fabricate charges, forcing Feng Suige to compromise to save his loyal subordinates. Zhuang He excitedly declared he would make Feng Suige beg him.
Feng Suige, meanwhile, informed his subordinates that he would travel to the capital tomorrow with Fu Yixiao. When questioned about the lack of an imperial summons, he merely emphasized the importance of returning for the fifth day (a significant date, implied to be Jingheng's death anniversary) and ordered them to compile a list of fallen soldiers from Pingling, ensuring their families received compensation and care.
In the carriage on the way to the capital, Fu Yixiao, now more aware, freed herself and attacked Feng Suige. He easily subdued her, warning her against rash actions due to her injuries and amnesia, reiterating that he was not her true enemy and that powerful forces in Jinxiu sought her death. He challenged her to choose cooperation for survival or defiance for death, which he would use to honor his fallen soldiers.
Fu Yixiao, though quieted, declared she would not be manipulated. As they approached the capital, scouts reported that Emperor Feng Pingcheng was hosting the coming-of-age ceremony for the Second Prince, Feng Chengyang. Feng Suige, clenching his fist, ordered them to proceed directly to the palace. His subordinate grumbled about the Zhuang family deliberately choosing this day for the ceremony. At the city gate, Zhuang He, in his capacity as a city gate official, blocked Feng Suige and the Feng Battalion.
He accused the battalion of treason, citing Susha's inexplicable defeat at Pingling and Feng Suige's ambush during his retreat as evidence of a spy within their ranks. He announced he was acting under Prime Minister Zhuang's, the Empress's, and the Emperor's orders to take the Feng Battalion to the Ministry of Justice for questioning, a place from which no one returns alive. The Emperor, informed of the standoff, refused to intervene, stating Feng Suige must prove himself.
As the situation escalated, Feng Battalion soldiers, including veteran Cao Yuan and vanguard death warrior Hong Shan, bravely stepped forward, offering to be taken to the Ministry of Justice in place of their comrades, passionately defending their loyalty and emphasizing their long service and sacrifices. Feng Suige ordered his men to remove their armor, then publicly recounted Cao Yuan's valor and Hong Shan's injuries, proclaiming their undeniable loyalty and challenging the notion of them being traitors.
When the soldiers roared their disbelief at the accusations, Zhuang He called it rebellion and ordered their arrest. Feng Suige then invited Zhuang He closer. Misinterpreting this as compliance, Zhuang He approached, only for Feng Suige to suddenly seize his throat, lift him into the air, and, with a grim declaration that a death anniversary required a sacrifice, crush his neck. Feng Suige then loudly ordered his forces to enter the city.
After passing through the streets of Yujing City, they arrived at the First Prince's mansion. Feng Suige told Fu Yixiao to recover there, promising to discuss their cooperation once she was fully healed. Fu Yixiao questioned the idea of cooperating with him. In response, Feng Suige asked if she was not curious to know who had shot her on the cliff and who wanted her dead.
Feng Suige, leaving Fu Yixiao in the care of his men, proceeded directly to the palace with Lu Ke, entering Chengde Hall without a summons. Inside Chengde Hall, the Second Prince, Feng Chengyang, a kind and innocent young man who admired Feng Suige, greeted his brother warmly. Feng Suige questioned the timing of the ceremony, and Feng Chengyang explained his mother had chosen it.
Feng Suige then pointedly asked if the Emperor, like the Second Prince, was unaware of the true significance of the day. The Emperor acknowledged the unfortunate timing. Feng Suige apologized to Feng Chengyang for disrupting his ceremony, promised a future compensation, and sent him away with the mention of a new sword. The Emperor then demanded to know the reason for the defeat at Pingling.
Before Feng Suige could speak, Zhuang Ming preemptively accused the Feng Battalion of harboring a spy, citing Feng Suige's ambushes as proof that someone had leaked military intelligence. Feng Suige agreed with Zhuang Ming's reasoning, then announced that he had already found the spy. At that moment, Lu Ke requested an audience and entered with a box. Feng Suige instructed Lu Ke to show the box to Prime Minister Zhuang, saying he might recognize the traitor.
Zhuang Ming, seeing that Prime Minister Zhuang was hesitant, pressed for the contents. Feng Suige suggested Zhuang Ming might be interested, revealing the severed head of Zhuang He. Feng Suige then declared that Zhuang He was the one who attempted to assassinate him on his journey, having confessed before his execution, and claimed he acted alone. Zhuang Ming immediately countered, demanding an investigation and calling Feng Suige's statement unproven and grounds for murder. Feng Suige, facing Prime Minister Zhuang, then asked pointedly, "What say you, Prime Minister? Should I have killed him?"
Episode 3 Recap
Confronting Prime Minister Zhuang Shen, Feng Suige asked if Zhuang He deserved to die. Zhuang Shen implicitly admitted his adopted son, Zhuang He, was the spy, stating that he "deserves to be executed for attempted assassination of the First Prince." He disavowed Zhuang He, calling him merely an "outer disciple of the Zhuang family" and claiming he only adopted him "so that I wouldn't die alone in old age."
Zhuang Shen dramatically declared he "deserved to die" for failing to teach his son. Feng Suige then remarked that since Zhuang Shen had admitted it, he hadn't "killed the innocent." He added that it was a good day, marking both his Second Brother's coming-of-age and his success in catching a spy from the Battle of Pingling, thereby bringing closure to the Emperor. Feng Chengyang, the Second Prince, paid his respects to his mother, Empress Zhuang Jingyuan, after his coming-of-age ceremony.
He explained that Feng Suige had returned early due to urgent matters with the Emperor, promising to compensate him later. Zhuang Jingyuan expressed her displeasure at Feng Suige disrupting the ceremony and presented Feng Chengyang with a book detailing civil and military ministers, urging him to assist the Emperor and build political connections.
However, Feng Chengyang showed no interest in state affairs, stating he only wished to practice swordsmanship and become "a brave hero" like Feng Suige, proudly displaying a sword Feng Suige had given him. Empress Zhuang Jingyuan, frustrated, warned her son against getting too close to Feng Suige, reminding him they were not full-blooded brothers and that Feng Suige was "a deep thinker" whom he should "be careful" of, especially "the better he treats you."
Despite his mother's repeated warnings, Feng Chengyang remained resolute in his admiration for Feng Suige and quickly excused himself to practice swordsmanship. Emperor Feng Pingcheng initially intended to reprimand Feng Suige for "spilling blood" at the coming-of-age ceremony, questioning his intentions. Feng Suige countered by questioning Empress Zhuang Jingyuan's choice of date for the ceremony. He passionately defended his actions, stating, "The treacherous minister wants to harm me, but yet you are not enraged.
I as a prince killed a treacherous minister, but Father wants to blame me," even challenging the Emperor to kill him. Feng Pingcheng, seeing Feng Suige was injured, decided to "let it slide for now." He urged Feng Suige to attend the evening banquet for Feng Chengyang, but Feng Suige refused, explaining he had to "go back to see my Mother" as it was her memorial day. A flashback revealed the tragic events of Feng Suige's youth.
His mother, the Empress, was falsely accused of colluding with Jinxiu by a captured spy and her own maid. Despite her furious denials, she was killed. Emperor Feng Pingcheng, distraught, later entrusted his young children, Feng Suige and Feng Xiyang, to Consort Yuan (now Empress Zhuang Jingyuan). A young Feng Suige vehemently rejected this, crying, "Xiyang and I only have one Mother. I don't want her to raise me." But Feng Pingcheng insisted, "From now on, she is your Mother."
This traumatic event deeply shaped Feng Suige, allowing hatred to fester and mold his current resolute and severe character. Fu Yixiao, with her left hand severely injured and her memory lost, acknowledged Feng Suige's assertion that her predicament was no accident and that "Someone in Jinxiu wants you dead." She mused that resisting was futile, and only by staying alive could she find the truth, even considering using Feng Suige.
Meanwhile, Lu Ke reported to Feng Suige that Jinxiu was extensively searching for Fu Yixiao, spreading news of her "fall off the cliff, her survival still a question." Prince of Zhennan, Xia Jingshi, had issued multiple orders, determined to find her. Feng Suige ordered Lu Ke to keep Fu Yixiao's identity a secret. Despite Lu Ke's strong desire to kill Fu Yixiao, Feng Suige issued a military order: "From now on, she is no longer an enemy.
Not only can you not hurt her, but you also have to treat her politely." He explained that the Battle of Pingling was more complex than it seemed, and they needed Fu Yixiao to unravel the mystery, which would be revealed once she agreed to cooperate. Zhuang He's death deeply affected Zhuang Shen.
While Zhuang Shen had not openly confronted Feng Suige in court, his nephew questioned why he allowed Feng Suige to "brutally behead Brother He on the streets without a shred of evidence." In the privacy of his home, Zhuang Shen admitted his fault in Zhuang He's death and seethed, declaring, "This blood debt will be repaid." He told his nephew that his actions weren't merely about the throne, as he already wielded significant power.
Instead, he sought revenge to demonstrate that "fate never misses" and "what goes around, comes around." Feng Suige encountered his sister, Feng Xiyang, who had secretly slipped out of the palace. She playfully teased him about his "injury" from the battle, to which he humorously replied it was an excuse to avoid punishment for a lost battle. Feng Xiyang, despite appearing carefree, expressed her deep unhappiness and the heavy burdens of being a princess.
She lamented the strict palace rules and the lack of genuine concern for her feelings, stating, "As a princess, other than my life, everything else belongs to the royal family, to Susha. But I just want to live for myself once. Even if it's just once." Feng Suige comforted her, promising to protect her and assuring her he would remember her words.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Zhuang Shen spoke with his daughter, Empress Zhuang Jingyuan, noting Feng Suige's growing power and cunning. The Empress criticized her father for arranging Feng Chengyang's coming-of-age ceremony on that specific day, implying it provoked Feng Suige. Zhuang Shen revealed his long-term plan, explaining that while Feng Suige was the eldest son with military achievements, making him a prime candidate for a title and eventually the throne, they could not rush to eliminate him without raising suspicion.
He then instructed the Empress to prepare Feng Xiyang for marriage, revealing that Jinxiu's marriage proposal would soon arrive. Fu Yixiao, having regained her strength, threw an inkstone at Feng Suige when he returned. Feng Suige calmly noted her recovery, reiterating that he spared her life because he had conditions: "From this day on, serve me, body and soul. Serve me, and you live. Refuse, and you die."
He knew she hadn't sought death despite opportunities, inferring that she had "thought it through" and recognized cooperation with him was her "only chance to uncover the truth." Fu Yixiao, playing along, demanded "good wine and food" as a show of sincerity for cooperation. She then confronted him about his motives, accusing him of wanting to "use me to kill for you," to which Feng Suige clarified it as "mutual benefit," highlighting her helplessness without his resources.
He proposed that if she cooperated, their "past grievances are erased." After they clinked cups, Fu Yixiao deliberately shattered her wine glass and used a shard to hold Feng Suige hostage, compelling him to drive their carriage away from the First Prince's mansion. Feng Suige, observing Fu Yixiao's significant glances at certain individuals on the streets, immediately understood that her actions served a deeper purpose. He commented, "Miss Yixiao, your true intentions lie elsewhere."
In Zhengnian Villa, Ling Xueying encountered three impoverished children searching for a "woman, dressed in red, skilled in martial arts." Upon learning they were Fu Yixiao's apprentices from Jinxiu, Ling Xueying informed them that Fu Yixiao had been taken to Yujing. Noticing their destitute state, Ling Xueying asked her attendant, Eleven, to prepare steamed buns for their journey.
Although the children initially took only one, insisting that taking more would be "greedy," Ling Xueying urged them to take more, concerned they wouldn't make the long journey to Yujing with so little food. Fu Yixiao bound Feng Suige and suspended him, preparing to whip him. She explicitly stated her intent to repay the "47 lashes" she had received from him previously. Feng Suige endured the whipping until she declared they were "even" after the 47th lash.
Fu Yixiao then revealed her true motive for kidnapping him, admitting that it wasn't solely for revenge, but to "lure someone out." Feng Suige confirmed her suspicion, revealing he knew they were being followed from Zhengnian Villa to Susha. He also knew that because Susha was rife with his spies, her pursuers would not act rashly. Despite this, Feng Suige offered to help capture them. Fu Yixiao, however, refused his help and decided to proceed with their alliance.
She presented her conditions: she would never harm Jinxiu, would personally interrogate the mastermind if uncovered, and could leave whenever she wished. Feng Suige agreed to all terms, also promising to ensure her injured hand was treated to restore her self-defense capabilities. Just as they shook on the "deal," Fu Yixiao swiftly bit him on the neck, declaring, "There's still one more debt to settle."
Feng Suige, after a moment, reciprocated by biting her back and stating that now they were "truly even." He then teased her for smiling, which she denied, though he insisted he saw it. Reflecting on the Battle of Pingling, Feng Suige addressed his subordinates, challenging their assumption that his being shot by Fu Yixiao was the sole reason for their defeat.
He revealed a deeper truth: "Why Jinxiu was able to immediately mobilize their troops and launch a massive counterattack," encircling Susha's forces from three sides and knowing their retreat routes perfectly. He asserted that Jinxiu had "already planted ambushes" at three strategic passes even before the battle began, indicating their pre-emptive knowledge.
Feng Suige concluded that if Susha's army had successfully captured Zhennan Pass and entered the city, Jinxiu would have simply closed the city gates, trapping and "slaughtering" their entire army with no escape, revealing a planned entrapment.
Episode 4 Recap
Although Feng Suige's Feng Battalion had a breakthrough in the battle of Pingling, the Jinxiu forces quickly retaliated after Feng Suige was wounded by an arrow and fell from his horse. They encircled his army from three sides and set up ambushes at three checkpoints along his retreat route. It became clear that there was a traitor within Susha.
Without Fu Yixiao's arrow, the Susha army would have entered the city only to be trapped by the waiting ambush, leading to the slaughter of tens of thousands of soldiers. Feng Suige's men concluded that Fu Yixiao's arrow was not a misfortune but rather a savior for their army. They reasoned that Jinxiu's precise knowledge of their retreat route indicated a leak of military secrets from within Susha.
The individual attempting to kill Fu Yixiao was most likely the traitor, and identifying this person would reveal the betrayer in Susha. One of Feng Suige's men suspected Prime Minister Zhuang, but was asked for evidence. To protect Fu Yixiao and lure out the traitor, Feng Suige instructed his men to bring Physician Xu from the palace to treat her injured hand.
To avoid suspicion, Feng Suige publicly declared Fu Yixiao his beloved concubine, a deception so convincing that even his subordinates, Lu Ke and Yun Fang, believed he had genuinely fallen for her. Physician Xu informed them that Fu Yixiao's meridians were severely damaged, with less than a 30% chance of full recovery.
Feng Suige, however, insisted on using the most precious medicine, including a rare one gifted by his brother, stating that "what's mine is hers" and commanding Physician Xu to heal her at all costs. Fu Yixiao initially resisted this arrangement, feeling humiliated, but Feng Suige explained that the title was for her protection since his household had few women, and her sudden unannounced presence would arouse suspicion.
He assured her of his sincere intent to cooperate, a sentiment Fu Yixiao echoed, though she refused to simply "play along." Feng Suige then ordered maids to dress Fu Yixiao in grand attire, intending to parade her through the city. Fu Yixiao, realizing his true aim was to announce her survival and use her as bait to draw out those who had been trailing them, reluctantly agreed to the public display.
As they paraded through Yujing City, Fu Yixiao, disliking the public scrutiny, boldly removed her golden hairpins and adorned clothes, leaping onto Feng Suige's horse and embracing him. Their procession was unexpectedly halted by Murong Yao, the dashing Heir of Marquis Changle and son of Marquis Murong, a renowned playboy in Yujing City. Murong Yao, who brought several female companions, was instantly captivated by Fu Yixiao's beauty and began to flirt with her, claiming they had met in a dream.
Feng Suige intervened, announcing Fu Yixiao as his newly taken concubine, which astonished Murong Yao. Initially thinking them adversaries, Fu Yixiao learned from Lu Ke that Murong Yao was Feng Suige's childhood friend, as close as a brother. After some playful banter and grievances about Feng Suige not informing him of his battle wounds, Murong Yao joined them in their carriage.
He later offered Feng Suige a special garment he had stolen from his father, which landed him in confinement for three months, considering it a significant favor Feng Suige owed him before departing to accompany his father to guard the North Pass. Soon after, Ling Xueying arrived with three children—Fang, Shunzi, and Nine—who tearfully recognized Fu Yixiao as their master. Due to her amnesia, Fu Yixiao had no recollection of them, causing the children to cry even harder.
Feng Suige extended an invitation for them all to stay at his mansion. Fu Yixiao remained wary, questioning the children for proof of their relation and dismissing them, asking Ling Xueying to send them away. Feng Suige, however, chastised Fu Yixiao for her "cold-heartedness" and insisted the children stay, stating his mansion was large enough.
Later, at a meal provided by Murong Yao (who brought dishes from Yujing's finest restaurants, including his own roasted lamb), Ling Xueying appeared visibly fearful of Feng Suige. Fu Yixiao pressed Ling Xueying, who denied any conspiracy but expressed her profound fear of Feng Suige. She recounted how Feng Suige had violated Zhengnian Villa's sacred rule against violence by massacring people there, leaving the entire room soaked in blood, a scene that took her ten days to clean.
She called him a "demon" and warned Fu Yixiao to stay away. Fu Yixiao believed Ling Xueying, sensing that her fear was genuine and acknowledging her kindness for staying despite it. Meanwhile, Lu Ke reported to Feng Suige that the "tail" they were tracking had scattered due to Murong Yao's unexpected arrival but were being followed by Yun Fang and Gu Yu. Feng Suige deduced that these were Jinxiu secret guards, who served under the Prince of Zhennan, Xia Jingshi.
He pondered why Xia Jingshi would want Fu Yixiao dead and instructed his men to remain covertly active, planning to "wipe them out completely" when the opportunity arose. Later, Feng Suige approached the children, who were practicing martial arts. Fang, intrigued, followed Feng Suige to the armory. There, Fang shared that he, Shunzi, and Nine were orphans whose fathers and uncles were generals under Fu Yixiao, all perishing in the battle of Yazipo.
Fu Yixiao had adopted them, teaching them martial arts for self-protection. Feng Suige, acknowledging Fang's curiosity, gave him a dagger, solidifying their newfound "friendship." A royal guard then informed Feng Suige that a marriage proposal letter had arrived from Jinxiu, and the Emperor summoned him to court.
Upon learning that the proposal was for Princess Feng Xiyang, Feng Suige's sister, to marry Jinxiu's Prince of Zhennan, Feng Suige became furious and immediately rode to the palace, despite attempts by Lu Ke and Yun Fang to stop him. In the imperial court, pro-peace officials argued that the marriage alliance was necessary for Susha's recovery after the recent war, especially since Jinxiu had initiated the proposal, signaling their desire for peace.
Feng Suige, however, strongly opposed the idea, stating that his injuries were mostly healed and the Feng Battalion was ready for renewed battle. He passionately declared that Susha had no history of princess marriage alliances and that peace should never be bought with humiliation. He asserted that Susha's men were not dead yet and would never sacrifice a woman for "recovery." Prime Minister Zhuang, surprisingly, supported Feng Suige's view that such alliances offered only temporary peace.
However, he cautioned against outright rejection, which would provide Jinxiu a pretext for war, a burden the common people could not bear. He proposed a compromise: returning four cities west of Zhennan Pass to Jinxiu, which he believed would secure peace for at least three years. This proposal enraged Feng Suige, as these were cities he had personally conquered through bloody battles.
Prime Minister Zhuang justified his suggestion as a "last resort" for the sake of the people and the nation. The Emperor, Feng Pingcheng, ultimately deferred the decision, stating he would "think about it" and instructed that Princess Feng Xiyang also be consulted for her opinion, implying women could also contribute to the nation's welfare.
Episode 5 Recap
Feng Suige met with his sister, Feng Xiyang, in the palace, intending to personally inform her about the marriage alliance proposal from Jinxiu. He expressed his strong refusal to let her marry Xia Jingshi, the Prince of Zhennan, who was his mortal foe. Feng Suige adamantly promised to prevent the marriage at any cost, even if it meant sacrificing his own life, and urged her not to listen to anyone trying to persuade her.
He assured her that as long as he was there, not even their father, the Emperor, could force her. Unbeknownst to Feng Suige, Feng Xiyang had been wishing to live for herself, just once. Meanwhile, a eunuch questioned the Emperor's intention to marry Princess Xiyang to Jinxiu, remarking that she was the First Prince's only family. The Emperor, Feng Pingcheng, responded by asking if the eunuch also believed Feng Suige harbored only hatred for him.
He declared that hatred, if it exists, must be maintained, as it strengthens a person and erases weakness. The Emperor saw this potential ordeal as a test, stating that only if Feng Suige could overcome it would he be deemed worthy of the throne. Back at Wutong Mansion, following a medical check-up for a recent fainting spell, a memory was triggered, prompting Fu Yixiao to express her desire for Ling Xueying to take the three children away.
Despite Ling Xueying's concern that the children, including Nine, Shunzi, and Fang, were eager to be acknowledged by their master, Fu Yixiao insisted they leave immediately. She explained that she couldn't remember them and, even if they were her disciples, she was in enemy territory, struggling to protect herself. Their presence would only put them in mortal danger.
Fu Yixiao instructed Ling Xueying to take them to Zhengnian Villa or send them back to Pingling City in Jinxiu, as long as they were safe. She emphasized that Feng Suige was not at the mansion, making it the ideal time to depart. Ling Xueying suggested staying behind herself while another attendant, Eleven, took the children, but Fu Yixiao rejected the idea.
Ling Xueying subsequently took the children in a carriage, misleading them into believing they were going to buy medicinal herbs for their Master. Nine cried, fearing abandonment, while Shunzi tried to comfort her, but Fu Yixiao's internal monologue revealed her true feelings: she hadn't forgotten them and would never abandon them, but her perilous situation prevented her from acknowledging or protecting them, necessitating their distance for their safety.
When Fu Yixiao attempted to leave the mansion, a guard tried to stop her, stating Feng Suige was not present and she had not been cleared to leave. She brushed him off, declaring she didn't need his protection or to report her movements. As the carriage approached the city limits, Shunzi realized they were leaving Yujing, not going for medicine, and accused Ling Xueying of lying.
Ling Xueying confessed that their master had asked her to take them out of the city due to her dangerous circumstances. She pleaded with them to return to Zhengnian Villa. However, the children refused, wanting to stay and help their master. Ling Xueying warned them that staying would only endanger their master further, as they could be used as leverage. At that moment, Fang and Shunzi jumped from the carriage and ran in separate directions.
Ling Xueying, after instructing Eleven to watch Nine, went to pursue Fang and Shunzi. Soon after, Fu Yixiao found Shunzi and Nine. She gently scolded Shunzi for running off, then reassured them she wasn't abandoning them and wanted them to be safe outside Yujing City. Shunzi informed her that Fang had run a different way, prompting Fu Yixiao to go after him, leaving Shunzi to look after Nine.
Fu Yixiao eventually located Fang on a merchant ship on the Wei River. Onboard, Fang was held by captors, one of whom spoke to him, revealing that Fang's full name was Qin Fang and his father had been the captor's squad leader. The captor assured Fang he wouldn't harm him if he cooperated, indicating they were ready to make their move.
Fu Yixiao quickly realized that the captors knew Fang was her weakness and recognized them as members of the Zhennan Army by their daggers. One captor, who claimed to have been her guard for many years, taunted her, suggesting she had forgotten him after her fall from the cliff. Fu Yixiao demanded to know who wanted her dead, to which the captor chillingly replied she would find out in the underworld.
Despite her fierce fight, the captors used Fang as a hostage, forcing Fu Yixiao to drop her sword. Resigned, she closed her eyes, preparing for death, when Feng Suige unexpectedly arrived, saving her life by fighting off the attackers and securing Fang. However, the ship had been doused in fire oil. When Fu Yixiao, worried for Fang, tried to go back for him, Feng Suige pulled her back, reminding her that dying would prevent her revenge.
Then, declaring "I'll help you!" he pushed her into the river, turning back into the burning ship. The attackers were stunned to see Feng Suige rather than Fu Yixiao. Feng Suige then prompted Fang, asking if he still had the dagger he had given him. Receiving confirmation, Feng Suige signaled Fang to stab the attacker holding him, which Fang did. Feng Suige quickly rescued Fang and killed the assailant.
As the ship's exit became engulfed in flames and water rushed into the cabin, Feng Suige placed Fang in a box, instructing him to hold on tightly and emerge only when the water receded, then pushed the box out to safety. Fu Yixiao, having surfaced from the river, saw Fang in the box. Upon learning from Fang that Feng Suige was still trapped inside the burning ship, she immediately returned to save him.
Feng Suige, entangled in a net, eventually lost consciousness from lack of oxygen. Later, Feng Suige regained consciousness and, believing Fu Yixiao had given him mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, jokingly demanded an apology for her "boldness." Fu Yixiao, amused, admitted to having pounded his chest but then revealed it was actually Fang who had given him air. Feng Suige's ensuing embarrassment prompted Fu Yixiao to burst into laughter.
Meanwhile, Ling Xueying found herself confined to her room in Feng Suige's mansion by his guards, who cited his orders. She protested, insisting she was not a prisoner and desperately needed to find Fang. Blaming herself, she cried, but her maid reassured her that Fang would be fine. Elsewhere, Zhuang Ming, panicked by the failed assassination attempt, was confronted by Zhuang Shen.
Zhuang Shen chastised him, noting that Zhuang He had just died and warning Zhuang Ming that his clumsy attempt to use Jinxiu forces to eliminate Feng Suige would not escape detection in Yujing City. Zhuang Ming apologized profusely, claiming loyalty and that he only wanted to assist his uncle. Zhuang Shen, however, reiterated that he had his own plans and would execute anyone who dared to interfere.
He ordered Zhuang Ming to leave immediately and hide until he was needed again. In Jinxiu, Xia Jingshi was frantic over Fu Yixiao's disappearance and delayed setting a wedding date for the marriage alliance, much to his subordinate's concern about imperial wrath. His demeanor changed dramatically when news arrived that Fu Yixiao was alive.
A wounded soldier reported that the Young Mistress of Zhengnian Villa had saved a red-clad woman, identified as Commander Fu, who was then captured by Feng Suige and taken to Susha's Yujing City. Although they had searched Zhengnian Villa before, it was presumed she had been hidden. Overjoyed, Xia Jingshi declared he always knew she was alive.
Despite his subordinate's eager offer to risk his life to rescue her, Xia Jingshi, after questioning his subordinate's vague plan and the risks involved, ordered Xiao Weiran to inform the Emperor that he would immediately depart for Yujing. He stated that the wedding date would be discussed only after his arrival, dismissing any concerns about protocol.
He insisted that Fu Yixiao was suffering in Feng Suige's hands and was in mortal danger, and only he could save her, demanding horses for a light, immediate journey. Back in Susha, Lu Ke led his men downstream along the riverbank in search of Feng Suige, while Yun Fang searched the east bank. Lu Ke halted his men when he heard Feng Suige's distinct military distress signal, a specific sequence of taps and pauses.
He recognized the signal and ordered his men to quickly follow the sound. Later, Fu Yixiao and Feng Suige rested by a fire. Fu Yixiao thanked him for saving Fang, acknowledging she owed him a great debt, and promised to repay him even if it meant facing "fire and water." Feng Suige teasingly reminded her of her promise, and Fu Yixiao commented on his cunning nature, always calculating and never making a losing deal.
He then leaned in and whispered to her the favor he needed, emphasizing it was a secret, to which she playfully retorted that there was no one else around so they didn't need to whisper. As they returned to the city in the carriage, Fu Yixiao, holding Fang, fell asleep. Feng Suige, observing her, silently mused about her audacity to sleep under his nose, unafraid of him.
Though they were close to the mansion, he instructed his men to circle the city a few more times, wanting to prolong the journey, and allowed Fu Yixiao to continue sleeping, albeit warning her not to make it a habit. He then closed his eyes as well. Fu Yixiao woke up and, seeing Feng Suige with his eyes closed, pondered his true nature, finding him puzzling after his heroic act for Fang.
Upon their arrival, Feng Suige denied he had been sleeping, claiming he was merely resting his eyes. Fang thanked Feng Suige for saving him, and Feng Suige, reciprocating, said they were friends and he wouldn't hesitate to ask Fang for help in the future. Their shared ordeal had subtly begun to break down the walls of suspicion and prejudice between them.
Episode 6 Recap
The First Prince's Residence had become increasingly boisterous since the three children arrived. Lu Ke found it perplexing that Feng Suige, who cherished peace and quiet, had not expressed anger over the commotion. Meanwhile, Lu Ke's men located the bodies of the three Jinxiu men who had fallen into the river, but their faces were completely disfigured, rendering them unrecognizable. The origin of the lamp oil found on the merchant ship also remained untraceable, effectively ending that line of inquiry.
However, Feng Suige remained unconcerned. He instructed Lu Ke to hang the bodies at the city gate so that everyone would know that Jinxiu had attempted to assassinate the First Prince of Susha. This, he believed, would put a stop to the proposed marriage alliance. Elsewhere, Feng Xiyang visited Empress Zhuang Jingyuan. After dismissing her attendants, Zhuang Jingyuan inquired about Feng Xiyang's thoughts on the marriage alliance.
Zhuang Jingyuan had expected Feng Xiyang to be unwilling, but to her surprise, Feng Xiyang, having matured and understood the importance of serving her country, expressed her willingness to marry into Jinxiu to maintain peace between the two nations. Zhuang Jingyuan was pleased, noting that Xiyang's quick mind resembled her own, and that her willingness put her mind at ease.
She expressed concerns about Feng Suige's interference to her father, Zhuang Shen, who reassured her that Feng Suige's efforts would be irrelevant as long as Feng Xiyang genuinely wished to marry. Zhuang Shen elaborated that if the princess was unwilling, it could become a hidden threat after she married into Jinxiu, a fact the Emperor surely understood. At the First Prince's residence, Ling Xueying found herself unable to eat or sleep comfortably. She decided to purchase a mansion in Yujing.
Fu Yixiao was surprised by this decision, reminding Ling Xueying of their plan to return to Zhengnian Villa. Ling Xueying explained that the children, whose hearts were set on Fu Yixiao, couldn't be fooled a second time. She added that leaving Susha might not even be safe, proposing they stay in Yujing until Fu Yixiao completed her tasks, then leave together.
Ling Xueying, an only child who always longed for an older sister, had come to see her maid, Eleven, as a younger sister. She then asked Fu Yixiao to become her sworn older sister, a proposition Fu Yixiao, having moved past her initial wariness and recognizing Ling Xueying's genuine kindness, readily accepted. Ling Xueying proceeded to purchase a grand house in Yujing, boldly instructing the real estate agent to charge the expenses to none other than Emperor Feng Pingcheng himself.
She excitedly told Fu Yixiao that once Fang was brought there, it would be their home in Yujing, even planning a clinic and pharmacy within. Despite finding a new home, Fu Yixiao couldn't shake a sense of unease. Later, Feng Suige sought an audience with Emperor Feng Pingcheng to demand justice. He presented the bodies of the Jinxiu assassins and offered Fu Yixiao's testimony as proof.
However, Feng Pingcheng rejected Fu Yixiao as a credible witness, citing her amnesia and unknown background. He then declared that it was too late to halt the alliance, as Xia Jingshi would soon arrive in Yujing and he had already sent a reply to Jinxiu confirming the marriage. In a desperate attempt, Feng Suige threatened to die if the alliance proceeded, accusing his father of being heartless for sacrificing his own daughter for peace.
Enraged, Feng Pingcheng threw a teacup, striking Feng Suige's head. At that moment, Feng Xiyang rushed in, apologizing for her intrusion, and bravely declared her willingness to accept the marriage alliance to her brother, Feng Suige. Stunned, Feng Suige pulled his sister aside. He desperately tried to convince her she didn't have to sacrifice herself, explaining his plan to provoke their father into cancelling the alliance.
Feng Xiyang stopped him, her voice filled with hurt, asking why he had never once bothered to ask her true feelings about marrying Xia Jingshi. She confessed that both their father and mother had asked for her opinion, but she had waited for him, her brother. When he finally asked, she tearfully affirmed her desire to marry Xia Jingshi, revealing that she had met him once and fallen in love, believing "when you meet the right person, once is enough."
Feng Suige, infuriated, railed against Xia Jingshi, declaring him Susha's eternal enemy, whose hands were stained with the blood of Susha warriors. He vehemently stated that there could never be peace between them. Feng Xiyang, however, insisted she would change Xia Jingshi, even challenging her brother to swear he would never fall in love with a woman from an enemy kingdom.
As Feng Suige began to swear, Feng Xiyang stopped him, tearfully apologizing and offering to bear any divine retribution herself. Faced with her earnest pleas and profound emotion, Feng Suige, defeated, finally relented and supported his sister's decision. A despondent Feng Suige returned to his residence, where he found Fu Yixiao and Ling Xueying preparing to leave with the three children. When asked if she was leaving, Fu Yixiao affirmed.
Feng Suige, in his heartbroken state, simply nodded his assent, allowing them to depart. Noticing his unusual distress, Fu Yixiao sent Ling Xueying and the children ahead, choosing to stay behind with Feng Suige. She followed him to a secluded area in his residence. There, Feng Suige, still visibly troubled, unearthed several jars of "Daughter's Red" wine that his mother had left for Feng Xiyang's wedding.
Deciding that Xia Jingshi was unworthy of even a single drop, he, in a moment of childish defiance, asked Fu Yixiao to help him consume it all. Meanwhile, Xia Jingshi, traveling day and night, arrived at Susha's border outpost. After presenting his travel documents to the Susha soldiers, he was granted passage.
Realizing their horses were exhausted from the arduous journey, Xia Jingshi agreed to rest at a nearby post station for the night before continuing to Yujing City the next day. Back at Feng Suige's residence, a tipsy Fu Yixiao recited a poem from her days in the Jinxiu army, then deftly picked up a sword and performed an impromptu dance.
Watching his former enemy general, clad in red, perform swordplay, Feng Suige was momentarily transported back to the battlefield, a vivid memory of her shooting an arrow at him flooding his mind. As Fu Yixiao became increasingly intoxicated, she expressed her confusion about her identity due to amnesia. Feng Suige, in turn, reminded her that she was Fu Yixiao, a name he would recognize even if she were reduced to ashes.
He mused on his perceived lack of virtue, having led her into enemy territory. Under the soft glow of the moon, Fu Yixiao, still in a drunken haze, reached out to touch Feng Suige's face, marveling at the "soft and bouncy" and "warm" "moon."
Episode 7 Recap
Upon waking from a night of heavy drinking, Fu Yixiao found herself holding a knife to Feng Suige’s throat. She chastised him for his rudeness, threatening to kill him to ensure their secret remained private. Feng Suige retorted that she should have acted while he was asleep, adding that he wouldn't want to miss seeing her beg for mercy. Fu Yixiao claimed she had never learned how to beg, to which Feng Suige suggested she could learn today.
Lu Ke then entered without knocking, prompting Fu Yixiao to quickly press herself against Feng Suige, feigning intimacy, and whispered for him to dismiss Lu Ke. Lu Ke, finding the sight unbearable, quickly exited. After Fu Yixiao departed, Lu Ke returned and reported that Xia Jingshi was expected to arrive in Yujing City today for the marriage alliance.
He then asked if Feng Suige was truly letting Fu Yixiao leave just like that, offering to keep an eye on her, confident she would return. Feng Xiyang was overjoyed to hear of Xia Jingshi’s imminent arrival, which was confirmed by an attendant who mentioned the Minister of Rites, Shen Wu, was tasked with his reception. She inquired if her brother, Feng Suige, knew.
Shortly after, her brother, Feng Chengyang, arrived with a gift: a hundred-year-old walnut tree, symbolizing a harmonious marriage, to wish her well for her wedding. Feng Xiyang thanked him, accepting the gift. However, when Chengyang realized that Feng Suige had not sent a gift and did not approve of the marriage, he became uneasy. Feng Xiyang, understanding his good intentions, allowed him to take the gift back, assuring him she wouldn't mind.
When Chengyang asked what would happen if Feng Suige truly wouldn't agree, Feng Xiyang firmly stated she would marry Xia Jingshi regardless. Chengyang then quickly excused himself, instructing his attendants to remove the gift. Although Ling Xueying and the children had moved to a different residence, Feng Suige had it sealed off, allowing entry but no exit. A maid confirmed this, explaining they had been confined since their arrival the previous day.
Fu Yixiao, realizing Feng Suige was behind it, immediately returned to his residence to confront him. She accused him of breaking his word and imprisoning them, despite his claims of protection. Feng Suige dismissively stated that the entire Yujing City was his territory and under his control, questioning if she truly believed he needed to "imprison" her, a defeated opponent.
Fu Yixiao, unfazed, declared her intention to cooperate, but insisted that she would set her own rules, not just follow his. Meanwhile, rumors had spread throughout the Feng Battalion that Feng Suige opposed the marriage alliance and that His Majesty would strip him of his military command, inciting the soldiers to threaten confrontation with the court and raising fears of a mutiny. Feng Suige vehemently denied the rumors, summoning his commanders and deputy generals to stabilize morale.
He asserted the battalion's iron discipline and questioned if their leaders' hearts were truly wavering, allowing them to voice any complaints freely. An officer expressed confusion and resentment, believing the alliance was a sign of Susha's defeat in the Battle of Pingling. Feng Suige clarified that the alliance was a grave political matter proposed by Jinxiu, not a sign of Susha's weakness, and took full responsibility for the Pingling defeat.
He ordered his officers to inform the troops that the Emperor had not revoked his military command, and that the Feng Battalion's weapons would always be aimed at enemies, never at their own people, and mutiny would not be tolerated.
Soon after, an officer reported that a soldier named Yun Qing had left the camp, leaving behind a dagger Feng Suige had awarded him, with a message that he intended to kill someone on Feng Suige’s behalf to atone for failing him. Feng Suige immediately realized Yun Qing planned to assassinate Xia Jingshi.
He understood the severe implications: if Xia Jingshi, who was arriving for the marriage alliance, died in Yujing, Susha would be accused of betrayal, and Yun Qing would face unforgivable consequences. Lu Ke pleaded with Feng Suige to save Yun Qing, emphasizing his loyalty and that he only wanted to ease Feng Suige’s burden, even if it meant sacrificing his own promising future.
Feng Suige affirmed that Yun Qing was like a brother to him as well and vowed to stop him, but an officer worried about Yun Qing's exceptional archery skills and knowledge of the terrain, questioning how they could find him. As Yun Qing was an exceptional archer, Feng Suige sought help from Fu Yixiao, also a master archer, agreeing to five conditions in exchange for her assistance. The first condition was to withdraw the guards from Ling Xueying’s residence.
Fu Yixiao, after mocking Feng Suige for his earlier boast about controlling all of Yujing, accepted his "thank you" and immediately requested a map of Yujing City. Feng Suige explained that Xia Jingshi was expected to arrive within two hours, detailing the entry route from the city gate to the post station. He mentioned Yun Qing had taken a two-picul bow, known for its long-range accuracy, and that their search around the expected firing range had yielded no results.
Fu Yixiao quickly surmised that Yun Qing had taken the large bow as a decoy. She reasoned that a two-picul bow would be too conspicuous in a crowded city, and since Yun Qing was intentionally hiding, he must have purchased a new, smaller bow from an archery shop near the city gate. She further deduced that because Yun Qing left his personal token, indicating his intent to not implicate the Feng Battalion, he would not use a military bow.
An archery shop bow, while having a shorter range of fifty paces, would still be sufficient for an archer of Yun Qing's caliber, especially since he intended to die and had no need for an escape route. Based on this, Fu Yixiao pinpointed a specific tavern as Yun Qing's likely vantage point. Before the assassination could begin, Lu Ke located Yun Qing at the tavern.
Lu Ke implored Yun Qing to stand down, reminding him of Feng Suige's military order and all the kindness he had received from Feng Suige, from his name and skills to his position and even his life itself, which Feng Suige had saved from the streets. Yun Qing acknowledged his great debt but insisted he was only trying to ease Feng Suige’s burden by killing Xia Jingshi, believing Feng Suige opposed the alliance.
Feng Suige arrived and sharply questioned Yun Qing’s actions, asserting that Xia Jingshi’s life was not worth Yun Qing’s. He reminded Yun Qing of the core military discipline: loyalty to the ruler and kingdom, and service to the people, not just to Feng Suige personally. Yun Qing, understanding, agreed. Feng Suige ordered him to report back to the camp before dismissal or face military punishment, thereby averting a major crisis.
Feng Suige thanked Fu Yixiao for her crucial role in averting the crisis. Fu Yixiao then asked about Xia Jingshi's arrival time, learning he would be in Yujing soon and was being welcomed by the Ministry of Rites. Noticing Lu Ke preparing Feng Suige's military robe, Fu Yixiao correctly inferred he was going to the city tower. Feng Suige confirmed he was going to support his sister.
Fu Yixiao offered to accompany him, ostensibly to look for other potential assassins, but Feng Suige saw through her and suggested she merely wanted to see Xia Jingshi. He then provocatively wondered about Xia Jingshi’s reaction upon seeing her, now a "concubine" in his household. Fu Yixiao took his comment as an agreement to her accompanying him. From the city tower, Fu Yixiao caught sight of Xia Jingshi.
Memories from her past flooded her mind, making her disoriented and akin to losing her senses. She instinctively grabbed a knife and swung it wildly, recalling her past self as Xiao Weiran, Fu Yixiao, and Ning Fei, swearing loyalty to the Zhennan Army and its prince, and vows of lifelong commitment. Feng Suige quickly intervened, calming her and making her release the weapon, reminding her who he was.
During this time, the Minister of Rites, Shen Wu, welcomed Xia Jingshi, explaining that His Majesty was waiting for him, and escorted him directly into a carriage, thus preventing any encounter between Xia Jingshi and Fu Yixiao. Along the route, the common people hurled insults at the carriage, their deep hatred for Jinxiu—Susha’s long-standing enemy—manifesting in angry shouts about the Jinxiu people killing their family members. After the morning court, Xia Jingshi had a private audience with Emperor Feng Pingcheng.
Xia Jingshi, without bowing or showing deference, informed Feng Pingcheng that he had come on his Emperor's behalf to marry Princess Feng Xiyang, conveying wishes for lasting friendship and peace. Feng Pingcheng, unfazed by Xia Jingshi’s demeanor, noted his upright character. He then directly stated that Xia Jingshi was Feng Xiyang’s chosen husband, and he would not have agreed to the alliance if she were unwilling.
He tested Xia Jingshi with Feng Xiyang's favorite homemade pastries, revealing that only a select few in the imperial family had ever tasted them. Feng Pingcheng reiterated that the alliance was for his daughter's happiness, not merely for Susha's peace, and he would not allow Jinxiu to fail her. Xia Jingshi respectfully acknowledged that he would not confuse state affairs with family matters.
Later, Jinxiu's formidable warrior, Ning Fei, appeared directly at the gates of the First Prince’s Residence, loudly demanding to see Fu Yixiao. Guards tried to turn him away, and Ling Xueying, hearing the commotion, came out to tell him Fu Yixiao was unwell and seeing no one. Despite her warnings, Ning Fei tried to push past, prompting Feng Suige to intervene and quickly subdue him with two punches, mocking Jinxiu’s "greatest warrior."
As Xia Jingshi was leaving the palace, he was met at the palace gates by Feng Xiyang, the sole princess of Susha. She asked if he remembered her, but Xia Jingshi replied they had never met. Feng Xiyang then recounted an incident from three years prior at the Jinxiu-Susha border in the desert.
Despite her brother, Feng Suige, discouraging her, the spirited young princess had secretly donned armor and joined the army, hoping to emulate her father and brother's military achievements. However, she got lost in the desert while trying to take a shortcut to catch up with her brother. She was then discovered by enemy soldiers, who were about to kill her. Xia Jingshi, seeing she was a woman, spared her life and gave her a pouch of water.
This water saved her, allowing her to survive for two more days until her brother, Feng Suige, rescued her. The water pouch had Xia Jingshi’s name carved on it. Feng Xiyang concluded that it was Xia Jingshi who had saved her life and let her go that day. From that day on, Feng Xiyang had fallen in love with Xia Jingshi, and she agreed to the marriage alliance without hesitation upon learning he was the designated consort for Jinxiu.
Episode 8 Recap
Xia Jingshi had no recollection of what Princess Xiyang had told him. Princess Xiyang recounted how he had saved her life three years prior, claiming that day he had "stolen her heart" and made her realize women were never meant for the battlefield. Xia Jingshi denied remembering the event and countered her assertion by mentioning Fu Yixiao, a woman who "became a hero far surpassing any man," proving that women could indeed fight.
Princess Xiyang expressed her dismay that he was thinking of another woman and reminded him of the sacrifices she had made to marry him, but Xia Jingshi merely reiterated his point. He then took his leave. On his way back to the inn, Xia Jingshi encountered his old rival, Feng Suige. The confrontation was tense, with Feng Suige mockingly suggesting that if Pingling City had fallen, Xia Jingshi would be his prisoner.
Xia Jingshi retorted that if his arrow had carried more force, Yujing City would be in mourning. Xia Jingshi then directly inquired about Fu Yixiao. Feng Suige casually claimed to have a concubine named Yixiao, whom he had "found by the roadside" and taken in out of pity, accepting her as his concubine after she offered to "repay me with her life."
Xia Jingshi warned Feng Suige not to hold Fu Yixiao responsible for their past grudges, as he had ordered her to shoot. Feng Suige dismissed this, questioning Xia Jingshi's claims of protection when Fu Yixiao's "life was hanging by a thread" and she was "being hunted." Xia Jingshi insisted Fu Yixiao was his general, one of Jinxiu's Three Heroes, indispensable, and demanded her return.
Feng Suige refused, stating he could not grant Xia Jingshi's wish if Fu Yixiao was so important. He added that Fu Yixiao was a person, not property, and would leave if she wished. Feng Suige then revealed Fu Yixiao knew Xia Jingshi was in Susha to marry Princess Xiyang. As a parting gesture, Feng Suige had Ning Fei, with "three broken ribs," sent back to Xia Jingshi's inn.
Back at the First Prince's Residence, Fu Yixiao was plagued by nightmares, battling unseen enemies. Ling Xueying, comforting her, mentioned that Ning Fei, claiming to be Fu Yixiao's brother, had been severely beaten by Feng Suige, suffering three broken ribs. Although Fu Yixiao could only recall Ning Fei's name and not his person, she asked Ling Xueying to treat him, reasoning, "What if he really is my good friend from before?" Ling Xueying agreed and headed to the inn.
At the inn, despite his serious injuries, Ning Fei anxiously inquired about Fu Yixiao. Ling Xueying revealed that Fu Yixiao had sustained severe left-hand injuries and amnesia, remembering neither Jinxiu, the Prince of Zhennan, nor even the Three Heroes. She chastised Ning Fei and Xia Jingshi for failing to protect their comrade, resulting in Fu Yixiao being "no longer the Red-Clad General of Jinxiu." Xia Jingshi asked if Zhengnian Villa had a cure, and Ling Xueying provided a prescription.
Fu Yixiao confronted Feng Suige about his attack on Ning Fei. Feng Suige justified his actions, claiming he spared Ning Fei only for Fu Yixiao's sake and to prevent others from causing trouble in his residence, asserting that Fu Yixiao "belong[s] to me now." Fu Yixiao vehemently denied belonging to him, reminding him that their alliance was for her to regain memories and find traitors. She questioned his motives for hindering her, accusing him of merely trying to control her.
Feng Suige insisted he was protecting her from potential manipulation, revealing that those capable of harming her at Zhennan Pass were few, including Xia Jingshi and her "two brothers." Fu Yixiao accused him of fearing she would regain her memories, abandon their cooperation, and leave him. Feng Suige was visibly hurt by her distrust but maintained that he would not allow her to meet Xia Jingshi.
Unbeknownst to Fu Yixiao, Feng Suige's servants later discussed his internal conflict: he desired her memories for their joint mission but feared she would remember everything, transforming her back into the formidable "female general who must fight His Highness to the death," noting his uncharacteristic focus on "romantic affairs" over the "bigger picture."
Feng Suige received a report that a "secret guards' waist token" was found on a corpse, confirming that only the Prince of Zhennan or Military Advisor Xiao Weiran could mobilize these secret guards. Meanwhile, a servant reporting to Empress Zhuang revealed that Princess Xiyang had met Xia Jingshi and mentioned he once saved her life.
The servant also relayed rumors that Fu Yixiao, the Jinxiu general now at the First Prince's Residence, and Xia Jingshi shared a deep bond, even being "secretly engaged." Empress Zhuang dismissed the engagement rumor but learned that Princess Xiyang was upset after Xia Jingshi mentioned a "female general," though she still "has deep feelings for the Prince of Zhennan" and was "excited about the marriage alliance."
Feng Suige was also informed that Jinxiu's marriage procession was approaching, consisting of over a hundred people and numerous carriages, but notably without any troops dispatched from Zhennan Pass. Furthermore, the Jinxiu Emperor had ordered Zhennan Pass to retreat 30 miles on the day of the alliance, indicating Jinxiu's "genuine sincerity." Despite these assurances, Feng Suige remained cautious, ordering a "detailed list of all attendants" before the procession entered the city.
Xiao Weiran and Ning Fei, now at the inn, entrusted Ling Xueying with a bamboo whistle, their former "token we used to contact Yixiao." They asked her to give it to Fu Yixiao, promising that if she ever blew it, they would come to her aid through any danger. Although Ning Fei tried to arrange an immediate meeting at Zhengnian Villa, Ling Xueying cautioned them about it being "Feng Suige's territory."
Despite acknowledging Fu Yixiao was injured by someone close to her, Ling Xueying implicitly judged the ruthless Feng Suige to be the more dangerous party. Fu Yixiao confided in Ling Xueying, admitting her memories were fragmented, and her feelings for her Jinxiu brothers were distant, like "flowers in a mirror and moon in the water." Ling Xueying pressed her to meet Xia Jingshi, believing he might be "the key to unlocking your memories" and a chance to escape Feng Suige.
Fu Yixiao, however, felt indebted to Feng Suige for protecting her and wanted to uphold her promise to cooperate, needing to help him "at least once before I can leave with a clear conscience." Realizing Feng Suige would prevent a direct meeting, Fu Yixiao devised a plan: she would visit Ling Xueying's courtyard under the guise of "seeing the kids," while Xia Jingshi entered through the back door. She insisted on the meeting happening "today."
As Xia Jingshi prepared to meet Fu Yixiao, a servant of Empress Zhuang arrived, summoning him to the Imperial Garden for a banquet. He was forced to comply, missing the arranged meeting. At Ling Xueying's courtyard, where Fu Yixiao and the children waited, Feng Suige unexpectedly arrived. He noted the courtyard's seclusion with a knowing look. Though Ling Xueying tried to take responsibility, Feng Suige sternly warned her, indicating his awareness of the plot.
He then declared to Fu Yixiao that since they were partners, he would allow her to meet Xia Jingshi, but it must be "in my presence. . . you can speak freely." Meanwhile, Empress Zhuang subtly interrogated Xia Jingshi in the palace, asking about the "female general" in his army, Fu Yixiao, and probing the depth of their relationship.
Xia Jingshi described Fu Yixiao as an orphan who gained "remarkable battlefield skills" and clarified their bond as one "forged in life and death" shared by all soldiers, explicitly denying any other "profound bond." Empress Zhuang, seemingly satisfied, then warned Xia Jingshi about Princess Xiyang's sensitive nature, implying that any "slightest trigger" could jeopardize the alliance. Xia Jingshi's prolonged absence infuriated Fu Yixiao.
She confronted Feng Suige, accusing him of employing "underhanded tactics" to control and imprison her, treating her merely as "a pawn in your game." She asserted that she, "Fu Yixiao, have never been someone who submits to others," and declared she would go to see Xia Jingshi now, threatening to "kill anyone who tries to stop me." She then stormed out of the courtyard and headed directly to the inn. Feng Suige was visibly enraged, initially shouting "Let her die!"
but quickly instructed Yun Fang to discreetly follow and "watch her." At the inn, Fu Yixiao was reunited with Ning Fei and Xiao Weiran, along with their younger brothers. They expressed overwhelming joy and concern for her well-being, but when Ning Fei asked if she remembered them, Fu Yixiao could only recall their names. She asked them not to speak of Feng Suige, and they passionately vowed to protect her from any mistreatment.
Just then, Xia Jingshi returned from the palace. Ning Fei and Xiao Weiran excitedly introduced Fu Yixiao to him. Xia Jingshi, visibly moved, explained his absence was due to an unforeseen summons and expressed his long search and fear of never seeing her again. Fu Yixiao, however, remained expressionless and stated, "I don't remember anything." Xia Jingshi was heartbroken, asking if she remembered nothing of him, Ning Fei, Xiao Weiran, or "everything about Pingling City."
Fu Yixiao confirmed she only had vague recollections gleaned from her younger brothers and Feng Suige, but "besides that. . . I don't remember anything." Xia Jingshi, devastated, continued to press, asking if she remembered "everything between us. . . All that we've shared through thick and thin," but Fu Yixiao's blank gaze offered no recognition.
Episode 9 Recap
Fu Yixiao sought out Xia Jingshi, not to rekindle their past affections as Lu Ke mistakenly imagined, but to understand her forgotten past. Xia Jingshi presented her with a detailed record he had kept of her life since her memory loss, hoping it would aid her. He offered her the Moon-Shooting Bow, a weapon that had once been hers, but she declined, stating that her injured left hand rendered her unable to use it.
Xia Jingshi, expressing profound regret for having failed her, affirmed his eternal commitment to her safety. He vowed that she would always hold a special place in his heart and implored her to return with him to Jinxiu, to go home. He revealed his past promise to marry her after the Battle of Pingling, a promise he now had to break due to the Emperor's decree for him to marry Princess Feng Xiyang.
Fu Yixiao acknowledged the broken engagement but insisted that as he was now a stranger to her, his marriage alliance for peace was a commendable act, and the past was simply that—past. Meanwhile, back at the First Prince's Residence, Fu Yixiao drank alone, having purchased several jars of wine on her way back. Feng Suige, having learned of Fu Yixiao's initial attempt to apologize for a misunderstanding, decided to acknowledge her gesture.
When he arrived at her room, he found only an opened jar of wine she had left behind. He accepted her implied apology but immediately pressed her about the details of her conversation with Xia Jingshi. Earlier, Feng Suige had dispatched a trustworthy messenger with a letter to the Jinxiu Emperor, instructing them to deliver it to the Yunlai Inn in Shengjing City, Jinxiu Kingdom. He declared it would be a "grand wedding gift" for Xia Jingshi.
As Fu Yixiao reviewed the records provided by Xia Jingshi, a deep suspicion formed in her mind regarding the scarce details surrounding the Battle of Pingling. The book recounted pivotal moments: Xiao Weiran's rescue by Fu Yixiao using the Moon-Shooting Bow, Xia Jingshi saving Fu Yixiao, Xiao Weiran, and Ning Fei from the death camp, and their shared battles as comrades in the Zhennan Army, including a fierce ambush outside Zhennan Pass where Fu Yixiao's bravery saved Xia Jingshi's life.
Yet, the critical period of her fall remained shrouded in brevity. During negotiations between Jinxiu and Susha, the Jinxiu Minister of Rites, Shen Wu, faced a Susha envoy's demand for the twelve counties west of the Pingling River. Xia Jingshi, the Prince of Zhennan, intervened. After consulting with his Emperor to make significant concessions for the alliance, he agreed to split the contested territory, a move that surprised Shen Wu.
However, Xia Jingshi stipulated that Susha must also uphold its promise to return all prisoners, specifically naming Fu Yixiao, the Jinxiu female general, who was currently held in Yujing City. Shen Wu readily agreed to handle her return. Soon after, Shen Wu frantically pleaded with Emperor Feng Pingcheng, explaining that retrieving Fu Yixiao from the First Prince's Residence was a perilous task, causing officials to resign or claim illness.
The Emperor, amused by Shen Wu's theatrics, refused to issue another decree, stating that while promises were made, the actual retrieval of the person depended on Jinxiu's own capabilities. Later, Emperor Feng Pingcheng mused to his eunuch that the First Prince's motive for keeping Fu Yixiao was not mere leverage, but to "muddy the waters" and uncover the truth behind the marriage alliance, acknowledging his son's audacious yet principled nature.
Back in Yujing, Lu Ke reported to Feng Suige that a personal guard of the Prince of Zhennan had been identified as a Jinxiu undercover guard, and was seen interacting with Prime Minister Zhuang's people. This suggested a collusion between Xia Jingshi and Prime Minister Zhuang. Lu Ke speculated that Fu Yixiao's mortal danger might stem from her knowledge of this secret, and that Xia Jingshi's eagerness to take her back was purely to silence her.
Feng Suige decided not to confront Fu Yixiao with this information without concrete proof, believing it best for her to uncover the betrayal by Xia Jingshi herself, pondering if she would seek revenge for being discarded. Meanwhile, at the inn, Fu Yixiao shared drinks with Ning Fei and Xiao Weiran. Ning Fei, observing her still drinking from a large bowl, asked if she was feigning amnesia. Fu Yixiao, however, genuinely stated she couldn't remember.
He then showed her a scar on his chest, acquired during the Battle of Changyu Pass, explaining how her quick action saved him from a poisoned arrow. He further pointed out an identical scar on her leg, both sustained about a month apart, recounting their time nursing each other and the camp's amusement. Finally, he urged Xiao Weiran to show his back, revealing burn scars from when he risked his life to save them from a burning barracks.
Despite their efforts, Fu Yixiao couldn't recall the events, but she was deeply moved by their shared history, camaraderie, and sacrifices. She spent over six hours talking with her old comrades. Fu Yixiao then asked Ning Fei for details about her fall. He informed her that a guard had reported she "fell off the cliff by accident" after the victory of the Battle of Pingling, when her disappearance was first noted. Intrigued, she pressed for details of the battle.
Ning Fei explained that the initial plan was to defend Zhennan Pass, but the day before the Susha attack, Xia Jingshi suddenly changed tactics after a military report reached him, setting up an ambush within the pass, effectively trapping Feng Suige. Fu Yixiao realized that her arrow, intended for Feng Suige, might have inadvertently saved him by preventing him from entering the trap.
She questioned why Xia Jingshi changed his plan, and Ning Fei revealed it was after a military report reached him. Xiao Weiran, now heavily intoxicated, offered no further information. Fu Yixiao, connecting this to Feng Suige's previous comment about a Susha traitor during the Battle of Pingling, wondered if that military report was delivered by the traitor. Later, Xia Jingshi arrived at the inn, concerned when Ning Fei and Xiao Weiran hadn't returned.
He saw Fu Yixiao arranging for the two drunken men to be transported. He informed her of his agreement with Susha for her release and urged her to return to Jinxiu for her safety. Fu Yixiao refused, explaining she had unfinished business. Just then, Feng Suige appeared, sarcastically questioning if she would truly be safer in Jinxiu, noting that the one who tried to kill her was from Jinxiu, not Susha.
The two men verbally sparred, with Xia Jingshi asserting Fu Yixiao was Jinxiu's internal affair, and Feng Suige claiming her safety as his domestic concern since she was at his residence. Fu Yixiao, tired of their bickering, declared she wasn't familiar with Feng Suige and that her affairs were her own. She dismissed both men, sending them away.
Xia Jingshi then attempted to assert his claim, informing Feng Suige that the prisoner exchange was being negotiated and Fu Yixiao would soon be returning to Jinxiu with him. Feng Suige mocked the idea, pointing out that she was not his prisoner to be exchanged. Xia Jingshi insisted Fu Yixiao was a Jinxiu general and her destiny was her own choice, a point Feng Suige agreed with.
Xia Jingshi spoke of his deep bond with Fu Yixiao, which Feng Suige scorned, calling him a "beast" who "flips faces without mercy." Xia Jingshi remained confident Fu Yixiao would regain her memory and return to him, to which Feng Suige chillingly retorted, "Are you truly not afraid of that day coming?" Princess Feng Xiyang, having spoken with her mother about her upcoming marriage and her right to pursue anything she desired, met with Fu Yixiao.
Feng Xiyang, displaying a strategic and possessive nature, declared her awareness of Fu Yixiao's past with Xia Jingshi but claimed not to care. She offered Fu Yixiao a comfortable life in her future mansion or a stable position in the military camp if she chose to stay after Feng Xiyang's marriage to Xia Jingshi, emphasizing her own future role in protecting the peace between the two kingdoms.
Fu Yixiao candidly responded that if Feng Xiyang truly didn't care, she wouldn't have sought her out. Despite her preference for solitude, Fu Yixiao accepted Feng Xiyang's invitation to stroll through the bustling Yujing City. Feng Xiyang reiterated her long-standing relationship with Xia Jingshi, citing his life-saving grace and affection, and their well-matched status. Fu Yixiao simply noted that Xia Jingshi had evidently not shared their past with Feng Xiyang and offered them well wishes.
As they walked, they encountered Xia Jingshi and then Feng Suige. Feng Suige also appeared and, addressing his sister, joined the group. Fu Yixiao again expressed her dislike for crowds, though Feng Xiyang seemed to enjoy them. Feng Suige, to further assert his dominance, deliberately took Fu Yixiao's hand in front of Xia Jingshi. Fu Yixiao tried to pull away, but Feng Suige reminded her that she was still his concubine.
He defiantly stated his intention for Xia Jingshi to witness that his beloved general was now Feng Suige's. Feng Xiyang, secretly pleased, then urged Feng Suige to move on, leaving Xia Jingshi to watch, powerless to intervene.
Episode 10 Recap
Princess Feng Xiyang, eager to win the love lock, asked Xia Jingshi to teach her archery. He initially offered only verbal guidance, but Princess Feng Xiyang insisted he teach her in the same hands-on manner he had taught "her" before, a request he reluctantly granted. Onlookers praised the apparent connection between the Prince of Zhennan and Princess Feng Xiyang, calling them a perfect match.
Proud of her quick learning, Princess Feng Xiyang asked Xia Jingshi if he would teach her daily after their marriage, and he agreed. She then challenged Fu Yixiao to display her archery skills. Xia Jingshi quickly interjected, stating that Fu Yixiao had an old hand injury and could not draw a bow. However, Feng Suige stepped forward, proclaiming he would serve as Fu Yixiao’s "left hand" to showcase Jinxiu’s top archer.
With Feng Suige’s assistance, Fu Yixiao effortlessly shot three arrows, hitting the bullseye and winning the love lock. She then presented the love lock to Princess Feng Xiyang and Xia Jingshi, wishing them a harmonious and long, happy marriage. Xia Jingshi politely declined to wear it, accepting the gesture mentally.
Just then, Fu Yixiao caught sight of a waist token on Xia Jingshi’s belt, triggering fragmented memories of her fall from the cliff, and she was overcome by a severe headache. Feng Suige quickly shielded her and instructed Lu Ke to summon Ling Xueying. However, Fu Yixiao refused, stating she would find Ling Xueying herself and did not need to trouble him. Feng Suige retorted that he would not waste a single thought on her, which Fu Yixiao found preferable.
She then requested to borrow Feng Suige’s carriage, and he agreed before taking his leave of Princess Feng Xiyang. Fu Yixiao and Xia Jingshi returned to the inn together in the carriage. Inside the carriage, Xia Jingshi asked if Fu Yixiao was unwell, and she explained her frequent headaches since losing her memory.
He offered to massage her Baihui acupoint, reminding her how, after rescuing her from the death camp, she would only allow him to touch her when her head ached. Fu Yixiao, noting her past trust in him, then inquired about the "death camp." Xia Jingshi described it as a place where a Jinxiu noble abducted orphans, forced them to learn killing, and made them fight condemned prisoners to the death.
He affirmed that her sole trust in him stemmed from that rescue. He further reminisced about her joining his army, considering Ning Fei and Xiao Weiran as family. Xia Jingshi recalled how Fu Yixiao insisted on wearing a red battle robe, earning her the title of "Red-Clad General," explaining she did this not to hide her own blood, but to draw the enemy’s attention and take blows meant for him.
Fu Yixiao lamented her lack of memory, but Xia Jingshi promised to help her recall everything they had shared and vowed to protect her, asking for her trust. She responded, "Okay." However, Fu Yixiao then had an internal realization: it was Xia Jingshi who had tried to kill her, leaving her utterly perplexed as to why.
Meanwhile, Lu Ke complained to Feng Suige about Fu Yixiao's apparent eagerness to return to Xia Jingshi, calling her ungrateful and unaware that Xia Jingshi was her true enemy. Feng Suige countered that Fu Yixiao already knew, evidenced by her earlier subtle plea for his help. Lu Ke then asked about the letter sent to Jinxiu, and Feng Suige confirmed it had reached Emperor Xia Jingyan.
At the inn, Ling Xueying examined Fu Yixiao, assuring her that her health was fine, needing only calming medicine. However, she warned Xia Jingshi that his condition was precarious if he continued to suppress his stagnant blood, as the toxins could soon overwhelm his heart. As her words fell, Xia Jingshi coughed up a mouthful of blood, revealing a long-standing poison. Ning Fei exclaimed that the poison had flared up and urged Xia Jingshi to hold on.
A brief flashback showed Xia Jingshi, in a dire situation, ordering Fu Yixiao to take a military token and escape, fearing the Emperor's wrath after his death. Fu Yixiao, however, refused to abandon him. Back in the present, Ning Fei explained that Xia Jingshi's poison was incurable, causing monthly agony, and that the only antidote would arrive with the wedding procession from Jinxiu.
Fu Yixiao asked Ling Xueying if she could concoct an antidote, but Ling Xueying stated she could only provide medicine to alleviate the pain. Later, Xia Jingshi reassured Fu Yixiao that he would be fine. She questioned him about the origin of his poison, but he stated it was a secret he wasn't yet ready to reveal, just as he had told her before.
Fu Yixiao then recounted a fragmented memory of him suffering a poison flare-up and telling her to abandon him. Xia Jingshi clarified this was from the Shahekou battle two years prior, where she had disobeyed his orders to stay by his side. He reiterated his promise to protect her, asking for her trust, to which she again replied, "Of course I trust you."
She then mentioned a scar on her left leg, recalling that Ning Fei told her it was from an ambush where Xia Jingshi saved her. Unbeknownst to them, Xiao Weiran was eavesdropping outside. He questioned Fu Yixiao's account, noting it contradicted the story he knew—that she was wounded saving Xia Jingshi—and wondered if she was testing Xia Jingshi or trying to gain his trust.
Elsewhere, Xiao Weiran met a masked individual who berated him for failing to eliminate Fu Yixiao, questioning his competence and threatening to end their cooperation. Xiao Weiran cited Feng Suige's presence as a hindrance, but the masked figure dismissed his caution as cowardice and demanded Fu Yixiao's immediate death. Returning to the inn, Xiao Weiran presented an antidote to Xia Jingshi, who refused it, explaining it was vital for his "grand plan."
Xiao Weiran then voiced his suspicion, suggesting Fu Yixiao seemed more interested in recovering her memories than their shared bond. Xia Jingshi dismissed his concerns, insisting that Fu Yixiao considered them her allies. Xiao Weiran remained worried that Fu Yixiao might recall the truth about her fall, but Xia Jingshi, while admitting he hoped she never remembered that moment, reiterated his commitment to keeping her safe.
Afterwards, Fu Yixiao confided in Ling Xueying, revealing that she now remembered it was Xia Jingshi who shot her off the cliff. She explained that since their reunion, she had sensed his constant wariness. Therefore, she intended to remain by his side, believing that only by making him completely lower his guard could she uncover the full truth behind his attempt on her life. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Zhuang Jingyuan summoned Xun Xiang and ordered him to eliminate Fu Yixiao.
Though hesitant because Fu Yixiao was associated with Prince Feng Suige, Xun Xiang reaffirmed his loyalty to the Prime Minister and promised to carry out the task secretly. In the imperial court, Feng Suige proposed a shocking plan: to keep Xia Jingshi in Susha as a live-in son-in-law. Prime Minister Zhuang objected, citing tradition and warning of war. Feng Suige countered that detaining Xia Jingshi would leave the Zhennan Army leaderless, benefiting Susha.
He then revealed he had already sent a letter to Emperor Xia Jingyan of Jinxiu proposing the arrangement. He read the letter aloud, which lavished praise on Xia Jingshi and framed the request as Emperor Feng Pingcheng’s desire to keep his daughter close. Feng Suige expressed confidence that Emperor Xia Jingyan would agree, as it also served his interests to have the powerful Prince of Zhennan contained abroad. Emperor Feng Pingcheng, outwardly displeased but inwardly satisfied, dismissed Feng Suige. Later, in Shengfu Hall in Jinxiu, Empress Dowager Jing arrived to find Emperor Xia Jingyan immersed in revelry with female dancers. Disgusted, she ordered everyone to be dismissed.
Episode 11 Recap
Empress Dowager Jing entered the imperial chambers, her expression grim as she dismissed the concubines and female attendants. She then sternly rebuked Emperor Xia Jingyan for his incessant debauchery, particularly his involvement with the female relatives of court officials. She named the wife of Vice Minister of Works Dai Quan and the niece of the Marquis of Bao'an as examples. Xia Jingyan, however, remained indifferent, asserting that these women were all willing participants.
The Empress Dowager then raised the matter of a letter from Feng Suige, which she vehemently rejected, stating that a first-rank Jinxiu prince like Xia Jingshi could never become a live-in son-in-law to Susha. To her dismay, Xia Jingyan revealed he had already agreed to the proposal.
Xia Jingyan explained that if Xia Jingshi remained in Susha, Pingling City would naturally revert to imperial control, allowing the Emperor to legitimately reclaim Xia Jingshi's military and political power over the Zhennan Army. He saw Feng Suige's proposal as a clever move that perfectly aligned with his own desires, believing that by the time Xia Jingshi inevitably returned, Pingling City would no longer be his.
Meanwhile, in Susha, Feng Suige's aide, Lu Ke, lauded the "marrying in" strategy as brilliant, as it prevented Princess Feng Xiyang from having to marry far away and kept Xia Jingshi firmly under their control. Feng Suige declared his intention to expose Xia Jingshi's "hypocrite" facade, noting how Xia Jingshi had presented himself as being in complete control since arriving in Susha.
While his subordinates were ready to celebrate, Feng Suige warned them that a desperate man would take desperate risks, predicting that Xia Jingshi would attempt to meet with a Susha operative once Jinxiu's reply sealed his fate. He instructed Lu Ke to keep a close watch on Zhengnian Hall. Fu Yixiao sought out Ning Fei to recall the events leading up to her cliff fall after the Battle of Pingling.
Ning Fei recounted that someone had seen her heading towards Prince Xia Jingshi's military tent. He and Xiao Weiran had assumed she was discussing important matters with the Prince and thus hadn't searched for her. He then vaguely mentioned getting drunk and returning to his tent, only to find her missing upon waking. Fu Yixiao noted his evasiveness. Ning Fei then added he got into a fight that night and Xiao Weiran forced him to bed.
Fu Yixiao, needing to trust him, asked him not to lie, to which Ning Fei made a solemn oath. Later, Fu Yixiao confided in Ling Xueying, expressing her belief that Ning Fei appeared to be honest but that she still needed to verify his account. She also reaffirmed her painful commitment to stay by Xia Jingshi's side, earn his complete trust, and lower his guard to uncover the truth, despite the revulsion she felt.
She warned that if Ning Fei or Xiao Weiran were involved in her attempted murder, she would not spare them, though she doubted Ning Fei, whose emotions were always plainly visible. In the Susha court, Prime Minister Zhuang Shen discussed Feng Suige's recent private audience with the Emperor.
Zhuang Shen instructed Shen Wu to organize a joint impeachment of Feng Suige by Censorate officials for his unauthorized letter to the Jinxiu Emperor, arguing that it was an absurdly inappropriate act for a prince and a violation of royal dignity. He clarified that the Emperor was likely to approve Feng Suige's "marrying in" proposal as it aligned with imperial interests, but Feng Suige's independent correspondence was a separate matter ripe for exploitation.
Xia Jingshi received news that his wedding procession had reached the Susha border and would arrive in Yujing City the next day, bringing his antidote. He recognized the prosperity of Yujing City far surpassed the military-burdened Pingling, and perceived Feng Suige as a formidable and dangerous leader who, if he ascended to the Susha throne, would make victory for Jinxiu impossible. Fu Yixiao approached Xia Jingshi with a bowl of medicine prepared by Ling Xueying and brewed by Ning Fei.
Xiao Weiran attempted to dissuade Xia Jingshi from drinking it, citing potential conflicts with the impending antidote. However, Xia Jingshi insisted on taking it, expressing gratitude for Fu Yixiao's care and acknowledging that he had already caused her pain and was about to do so again by marrying Princess Feng Xiyang. He dismissed Xiao Weiran's concerns.
Over breakfast, Fu Yixiao subtly probed Xia Jingshi's past, asking if they used to dine together (he confirmed they had an informal relationship) and then inquiring if he remembered the first time he had ever struck her.
When she couldn't recall, Xia Jingshi vividly recounted an incident where he, seeing her admire earrings but feel unworthy, taught her a lesson about self-worth, playfully striking her with a horsewhip as a symbolic reminder that she was not "lower-class" and he would always be her protector. This specific memory resurfaced for Fu Yixiao. She then asked Xia Jingshi to help her recall events after the Battle of Pingling.
Xiao Weiran quickly interjected, providing a version of events where Xia Jingshi had advised against pursuing Feng Suige, but Fu Yixiao, disagreeing, left the camp alone, with her subsequent disappearance a mystery. Fu Yixiao internally noted Xiao Weiran was lying. She pressed on, asking if Xia Jingshi was present during this supposed argument. Xiao Weiran confirmed his presence, asserting no one knew what happened after she left.
Fu Yixiao highlighted Ning Fei's previous account that she "fell off the cliff by accident," which Xiao Weiran affirmed, adding they only later learned she had also been shot by an arrow. He then vehemently vowed revenge on the shooter, a sentiment Fu Yixiao echoed, eyeing Xia Jingshi. Xia Jingshi abruptly ended the meal, stating important official business at the inn.
Xiao Weiran later admitted to Xia Jingshi that he had lied to gauge Fu Yixiao's memory, concluding she remembered nothing. Xia Jingshi advised him to shed his suspicions. Fu Yixiao, however, realizing the discrepancy between Ning Fei and Xiao Weiran's stories, sought out Ning Fei again.
This time, Ning Fei mentioned that the night the Battle of Pingling ended, a merchant with a luxurious carriage, supposedly dealing in medicinal herbs, had visited Xia Jingshi in his tent, an unusual meeting for such a trivial matter that could have been handled by Xiao Weiran.
Fu Yixiao, asking Ning Fei to keep their conversation secret, began to suspect that Xiao Weiran's lie was meant to protect Xia Jingshi, and that the merchant's visit might hold the key to why Xia Jingshi had attempted to murder her. Xiao Weiran later approached Fu Yixiao to gauge her feelings on Xia Jingshi's impending marriage to Princess Feng Xiyang, acknowledging her past private engagement to Xia Jingshi.
Fu Yixiao, observing that Xiao Weiran genuinely considered Xia Jingshi's perspective, asked him what he would advise her to do. He suggested it was "better to forget than to be entangled." Fu Yixiao stated she had no desire for entanglement and, even if her memory fully returned, would not pursue Xia Jingshi, finding the pain of loving such a "radiant" person too great.
She then handed Xia Jingshi a handmade herbal sachet, a type of item she had previously prepared for him to alleviate his poison pain. She then confessed that she had once suspected him of trying to kill her. Xia Jingshi's smile froze. But she immediately added that after reviewing the historical accounts he had provided, she realized he was "the last person she should have suspected." Xia Jingshi's tightly clenched hand, hidden behind his back, visibly relaxed.
He then told her that she would understand his actions for "their future" someday, hoping she would never remember the painful truth of that day, pledging to protect her life. Fu Yixiao internally rejected his words, stating that she would represent her future self to stop him. Indeed, it was Xia Jingshi who had shot her, leading to her fall. Yun Fang drove Fu Yixiao to a meeting with Feng Suige.
Fu Yixiao, after some teasing from Feng Suige about her "night" with Xia Jingshi, directly asked when he had learned that Xia Jingshi was her attacker. Fu Yixiao then disclosed that Xia Jingshi had received a secret military report and changed his battle plans the day before the Battle of Pingling, suggesting a connection to Susha's traitors. She tasked Feng Suige with investigating this report. She then revealed the merchant's visit to Xia Jingshi's tent the night the battle ended.
Although she couldn't recall the details of their conversation, she suspected it was the true motive for his attempt on her life. She assured Feng Suige she was not withholding information and that uncovering this truth was her only chance. Feng Suige offered her protection, but Fu Yixiao declined, emphasizing her commitment to their cooperation.
She then asked that he not seek her out for a few days to avoid Xia Jingshi's suspicion, before accepting a small token he called "his heart of mercy." Yun Fang noted Feng Suige's apparent "care" for Fu Yixiao, which Feng Suige quickly dismissed as simply caring for a member of his household. Meanwhile, Xia Jingshi was preparing to leave Zhengnian Hall for the inn. He inquired about Fu Yixiao's whereabouts.
Ling Xueying fabricated a story about sending Fu Yixiao to a medicine merchant to fetch herbs, citing a sudden influx of patients. Xia Jingshi believed her, asking Ling Xueying to tell Fu Yixiao to take care of herself and thanking Ling Xueying for her ministrations. Feng Suige was summoned to the Susha palace. There, a Censorate official reported to the Emperor that ten officials had submitted eighteen memorials.
Zhuang Shen then explained the collective indignation of the court over Feng Suige's unauthorized correspondence with the Jinxiu Emperor, deeming it a rash act that affronted royal dignity and demanded strict investigation and punishment, otherwise, neither the populace nor the officials would be appeased. Feng Suige entered and paid his respects, and the Emperor ordered him to listen to the impeachments against him.
