Fight For Love Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Fight For Love Synopsis
Chu Yu’s father dies in battle, and her severely injured elder brother reveals to her that there is much more to the situation than it seems. Determined to uncover the truth, Chu Yu vows to investigate. Meanwhile, the Wei family suffers a devastating defeat in a battle, leaving only the youngest son, Wei Yun, alive. Chu Yu marries into the Wei family, assuming the identity of her late elder brother’s widow as a cover for her investigation.
Initially, Wei Yun is wary of Chu Yu, but he gradually becomes moved by her sincerity as they spend time together. Feelings begin to blossom between them, yet their fabricated “sibling-in-law” relationship becomes a barrier to their love. Together, they face life-and-death trials, fend off foreign enemies, delve deeper into the truth behind the tragedies, and join forces to protect their homeland and its people.
Fight For Love Recap
Episode 1 Recap
The Great Sui lay in the Central Plains, bordering North Qi. For years, the two nations had been locked in war, leaving the land in ruins and its people in misery. Emperor Chunde ordered General Chu Jianchang of the Northwest to defend Fengling City to the last. The Chu Army fought valiantly, holding the city with their flesh and blood, but suffered heavy losses, and General Chu Jianchang ultimately fell in battle. In Huajing City, the Wei Army returned triumphantly.
Wei Yun, the Seventh Young Master Wei, known as the young general in white who had pacified the northern border, was responsible for entering the city first to report the victory. As he led the vanguard, many citizens cheered, exclaiming that the Wei family had returned in triumph. On this celebratory day, Chu Yu, the eldest daughter of the Chu family, appeared dramatically, dressed in red and dancing with a sword in the middle of a bridge.
Simultaneously, Gu Chusheng, a Senior Compiler of the Hanlin Academy, was heading to the Duke of Ning's residence for his wedding. Onlookers, familiar with Chu Yu's past elopement with Academician Gu five years prior, believed she had been abandoned and was now creating a scene to disrupt Gu Chusheng's wedding. Even Gu Chusheng thought she was there for him, asking why she would risk her reputation with such public actions.
He reminded her they had long separated, stating, "There's no longer anything between us." Chu Yu retorted, questioning whether he truly understood her. She clarified to him, "I'm standing here to stop you." She then added pointedly, "Now that the Chu family has fallen, you should find your own path. As for me, I have a future I must face."
As Wei Jun, the First Son of the Wei family, and his five brothers followed, Chu Yu, tired of Gu Chusheng's presumptions, cut the ropes holding a large red banner. It unfurled to reveal words of affection. She declared to the crowd, "Today I have come for Young General Wei Jun." She openly expressed her admiration for his bravery and asked if she, a martial woman, could be considered worthy of him.
Wei Jun initially responded politely, stating he had "pledged myself to the state" and was not the right match. However, just then, a soldier reported that Northwest General Chu Jianchang had fallen at Fengling City and General Chu Linyang was gravely wounded. In response, Chu Yu affirmed her unwavering martial spirit, despite her family's decline, and reiterated her connection to the state.
Wei Jun, seemingly moved by the news and her steadfastness, reassured her, "I never believed those rumors," which Wei Yun immediately pointed out to his brother, indicating it sounded like acceptance. Chu Yu's maid, Wanyue, then threw an embroidered ball, which Wei Yun pierced with his spear, scattering petals. Wei Yun found a hidden note and tried to conceal it, but Wei Jun saw him and asked for it.
After reading the note, Wei Jun promised Chu Yu, "I will give you a satisfactory answer." Chu Yu replied, "Good. I'll be waiting." Later, at the Chu Mansion, Chu Yu's maid Wanyue joked about Gu Chusheng believing Chu Yu's public display was for him. Chu Yu confirmed it was a calculated risk that almost failed, saying, "Who could've known his wedding would nearly ruin my plan?"
Meanwhile, Chu Jin, Chu Yu's younger sister, complained loudly about Chu Yu's actions, calling her "shameless and indecent" and claiming she had disgraced the Chu family. When Chu Yu confronted her, Chu Jin accused her of being selfish. Chu Yu warned her, "misfortune comes from the mouth," and that she wasn't someone to be trifled with. Their argument escalated into a physical altercation, with Wanyue confirming that Chu Jin struck first.
Old Madam Xie Yun intervened, scolding Chu Yu without asking for her side of the story. She accused Chu Yu of being undisciplined due to her upbringing on the frontier and chastised her for disgracing the family name. Chu Yu, resigned, retorted, "You didn't even ask me why I did that today. And you judged me based only on Chu Jin's word. You'll never believe me. Fine. I'm used to it. Think what you like. I won't change anyway."
Chu Jin, feigning innocence, then played the victim, telling Xie Yun it was all her fault for angering Chu Yu. Chu Yu then had a private conversation with her elder brother, Chu Linyang, who had recovered after half a year. He observed that she still seemed angry at their mother and Chu Jin, to which Chu Yu simply replied, "I'm used to it." Chu Linyang then directly asked her, "Honestly, why are you getting close to Wei Jun?"
Chu Yu explained that her public display was "out of desperation" and shared the true reason for her actions with Wei Jun at a secluded pavilion in the eastern woods, as per the note. Wei Jun acknowledged that he already suspected her true intentions, knowing that with her father, General Chu Jianchang, recently fallen and her three-year mourning period, no celebrations would be held by the Chu family.
He admired her past loyalty to Gu Chusheng and said he believed her. Chu Yu then revealed that her father was killed by the North Qi army using a new octagonal crossbow, and her brother was gravely injured by it. She explained that the weapon's core instant-firing mechanism was strikingly similar to a new design from the Wei family, a design that had not yet been publicly released in Great Sui.
Producing the Chu family's heirloom jade token, she swore that every word was true. She told Wei Jun that she needed the Wei family's help to find the traitor who leaked the military secrets, and that her public display of affection was a ruse to prevent suspicion from the court.
Wei Jun confirmed his understanding of the secret nature of the Arsenal Bureau's octagonal crossbow, agreeing that its design was a state secret and expressing his own desire to know how North Qi obtained it. Suddenly, Wei Yun and his five brothers emerged from their hiding spots, where they had been eavesdropping. Wei Jun, visibly annoyed, reprimanded them, especially Wei Yun, and ordered Wei Yun to apologize to Chu Yu for his rudeness.
Wei Yun grudgingly apologized, and Chu Yu generously dismissed it, saying she wouldn't hold it against "kids." Wei Jun then suggested to Chu Yu they meet again at Qinxi Valley to discuss further, to which she agreed. After Wei Jun and his brothers departed, Wei Yun lingered, stopping Chu Yu to confront her. He still didn't believe she had suddenly fallen for his elder brother, expressing concern for Wei Jun's emotional well-being.
Chu Yu, refusing to directly answer, challenged him to a fight, promising to reveal the truth if he won. Wei Yun, however, lost the duel, failing to uncover her secrets. Later, at the Marquis of Zhenguo's Mansion, during a family dinner, Liu Xueyang, the Marchioness of Zhenguo and mother of the Wei brothers, voiced her strong disapproval of Chu Yu. She noted that the entire city was gossiping about Wei Jun marrying Chu Yu after her public spectacle.
While some of the younger Wei brothers lightheartedly suggested Chu Yu and Wei Jun made a good match, and Wei Jun praised Chu Yu's resilience, Liu Xueyang remained firm. She argued that Chu Yu's elopement for love and the resulting scandal showed a disregard for "private morals," making her an unsuitable match for their military family. Wei Jun, without finishing his meal, excused himself to attend to "official business."
Wei Jun also discussed the secret octagonal crossbow with his father, Wei Zhong, Marquis of Zhenguo, expressing his concern about how North Qi obtained the design for a weapon that was never deployed by Great Sui due to its dangerous nature. Meanwhile, at Qinxi Valley, in the Eldest Princess's garden, Linlang, daughter of the Duke of Ning, was admiring the blooming flowers with Gu Chusheng.
Minister of the Court of Judicial Review Cao Yan and Young Master Sun were also present, mocking Chu Yu. Cao Yan remarked on Academician Gu's "luck" in being pursued by General Chu's daughter and then gaining the Duke of Ning's daughter's favor. He then launched into a harsh criticism of Chu Yu, recalling how she grew up on the frontier, joked freely with soldiers, and "ignored gender taboos," ending by saying he felt "ashamed for General Chu."
At that moment, Wanyue, unable to tolerate the insults, confronted them, shouting, "Don't go too far!" Cao Yan demanded to know whose maid she was, and Chu Yu then stepped forward, declaring, "She's my maid."
Episode 2 Recap
While in Qinxi Valley, Cao Yan spoke disparagingly of Lady Chu, bringing up her past entanglement with Gu Chusheng. Unknown to him, Lady Chu and her maid, Wanyue, were also present. Wanyue, in defense of her mistress, hurled a teacup that shattered near Cao Yan's feet. Enraged, Cao Yan continued his insults, questioning if Lady Chu was in the valley to "fish for another rich groom" after being rejected by Young General Wei.
He even dared to mock Lady Chu's deceased father, the defeated general Chu Jianchang, asking if he would crawl from his coffin to defend her. As Lady Chu prepared to lash out with her whip, Gu Chusheng restrained her, urging her to remain calm. Suddenly, a stone struck Cao Yan's forehead, drawing blood and forcing him to cower behind Ms. Wang. Wei Jun and Wei Yun arrived, and Lady Chu greeted Wei Jun.
Unrepentant, Cao Yan warned Wei Jun to keep his distance from Lady Chu to protect the Marquis Mansion's honor. Wei Jun, in turn, rebuked Cao Yan for his coarse language. Wei Yun then revealed himself as the one who threw the stone, implying he did it to defend his brother and Lady Chu. Cao Yan, furious, accused them of conspiring against an imperial official.
Wei Jun then firmly told Cao Yan to let the matter end there, stating that while they might be soldiers, they were soldiers who protected Great Sui’s people and peace, and Lady Chu’s meritorious family would not tolerate such slander. Cao Yan, however, threatened that he would make them pay double for the humiliation. After the confrontation subsided, Wei Yun admitted to Wei Jun that he had merely tried to scare Cao Yan.
Lady Chu thanked Wei Jun for his assistance, and he advised her not to take Cao Yan's words to heart. Lady Chu then invited Wei Jun for a walk, subtly signaling Wei Yun to leave them alone. As they walked, Lady Chu apologized for her public confession at Spring Breeze House, admitting she had not thought it through and offering Wei Jun a chance to publicly refuse her to save his family's reputation.
Wei Jun assured her he did not mind, explaining that because the instant trigger for the octagonal crossbow originated from the Arsenal Bureau, he was not entirely blameless. He stressed the gravity of the situation for both the Wei family and Great Sui, promising a thorough investigation. Lady Chu asked to join him, but Wei Jun explained the high stakes, noting the Chu family's suspected deceit and the Wei family's potential implication in treason.
He refused her direct involvement but promised to disclose everything once the matter was resolved. After her maid, Wanyue, failed in her attempt to follow Wei Yun and his guard, Wei Qiu, to the secret location of the Arsenal Bureau, Lady Chu realized she could not find it on her own.
Choosing to trust Wei Jun, she handed him an octagonal crossbow trigger, explaining that her brother, Chu Linyang, had retrieved it from the Fengling battlefield at great personal risk, confirming its North Qi origin. She expressed her trust in Wei Jun's integrity, stating that while her brother might distrust him, she would believe him. Wei Jun took the mechanism, pondering who the traitor in the Arsenal Bureau might be.
Meanwhile, Wei Jun questioned Wei Yun about his attempts to obtain personnel files from the Arsenal Bureau, revealing he had sent Wei Yun to avoid being monitored himself. Wei Yun, still suspicious, asked Wei Jun if his relationship with Lady Chu was genuine, warning him not to toy with her feelings.
Wei Jun merely teased him back, asking for Wei Yun's definition of "the best woman in the world," to which Wei Yun replied, "the one you love is the best." Urgent reports soon reached Huajing City, announcing North Qi's unusual movements and a crisis at the northern border. Marquis of Zhenguo, Wei Zhong, assembled his seven sons, informing them that the Wei Army must immediately mobilize for battle. Before deployment, the sons drew lots to determine their duties.
Wei Yun, eager for combat, challenged Wei Jun, hoping to earn a future exemption from the draw. However, he drew the "guard" lot, meaning he was assigned to defend the rear, a rule enforced by Wei Zhong that could not be defied. Wei Jun then visited Lady Chu, but she was out. He left a letter with a servant, explaining that he could not enter her residence to protect her reputation.
Lady Chu eventually received Wei Jun’s letter, which reiterated the critical nature of the Arsenal Bureau and the two restricted methods of entry: an imperial decree or an official post with proper credentials. She lamented that a decree or appointment was impossible, leaving the nature of the "credentials" as a mystery, but held onto the hope that Wei Jun would investigate with her upon his victorious return.
She then rushed to the city gate, where Wei Jun's army was departing, shouting loudly that she would wait for his return. Wei Jun, hearing her, turned and offered a reassuring smile before riding off with his troops. Wei Yun witnessed the exchange. The Crown Prince, Li Huan, though inexperienced and younger than Wei Yun, personally oversaw the army, accompanied by State-Supporting General Yao Yong. Soldiers discussed the unusual decision to send such a young Crown Prince to supervise.
A month later, the Wei Army was engaged in fierce fighting with North Qi. A sudden report stated that the North Qi army, numbering fewer than twenty thousand, had retreated to Baidi Valley. The inexperienced Crown Prince, believing it a chance to press their advantage, ordered the Wei Army to pursue. Wei Yun, still at the rear, had concerns about Baidi Valley’s recessed terrain, suggesting a need for strategic discussion before pursuit, but military orders were absolute.
The Wei Army charged into battle, heading directly for North Qi general Su Cha. As they pursued the retreating North Qi forces into Baidi Valley, a dense mist suddenly descended, severely limiting visibility. Wei Zhong immediately ordered a halt. The distinct sound of rapid crossbow fire filled the air, and he quickly realized it was an ambush. The Wei Army had walked into a trap, and it was too late to retreat.
Wei Zhong understood that the intelligence regarding North Qi's numbers was false; there were far more than twenty thousand enemy soldiers, indicating a spy within Great Sui had provided fabricated reports. Powerful crossbows, including the octagonal crossbow, inflicted heavy casualties on the Wei Army. Overwhelmed by superior numbers, Wei Zhong commanded his forces to fight their way out. As North Qi soldiers aimed octagonal crossbows at Wei Zhong, his son, Wei Shu, bravely shielded him. However, North Qi soldiers, who had encircled them, simultaneously struck Wei Zhong from behind. Witnessing their father’s fall, Wei Jun and his remaining brothers were filled with fury and grief.
Episode 3 Recap
The Wei Army fought desperately against the numerically superior North Qi forces. One after another, the Marquis of Zhenguo Wei Zhong, General Wei Shu, Captain Wei Qin, Captain Wei Feng, Deputy Captain Wei Ya, and Deputy Captain Wei Rong fell in battle, leaving only Wei Jun to fight on. Meanwhile, at the rear, Wei Yun, who was tasked with guarding the camp, noticed a strange smell.
He quickly discovered that the granary was on fire, set ablaze by North Qi infiltrators. He wondered why North Qi would send spies to burn their granary when they were supposedly retreating to Baidi Valley and preoccupied. A report soon arrived, informing Wei Yun that all the generals were trapped in Baidi Valley and needed urgent rescue. The intelligence was flawed; North Qi's forces were over four times their estimate, and the Wei Army was hard-pressed, unable to break out.
Despite Wei Jun's earlier instruction for him to stay, Wei Yun ordered a portion of his men to continue fighting the fire while the rest followed him to reinforce Baidi Valley. Upon his arrival at Baidi Valley, Wei Yun found himself targeted by North Qi's octagonal crossbows. Wei Jun, with a desperate cry, threw himself in front of his younger brother, shielding him from the barrage of arrows with his own body.
Mortally wounded, Wei Jun chastised Wei Yun, asking why he hadn't stayed in the camp as instructed. With his last breaths, Wei Jun revealed that there was a mole in the Arsenal Bureau who had given North Qi the octagonal crossbow plans and urged Wei Yun to find the traitor. Wei Jun apologized to Wei Yun, acknowledging that he and his brothers were leaving him to face the challenges ahead alone.
Overwhelmed by grief, Wei Yun cried out in despair as his brother died before his eyes. As the reports poured in, announcing the deaths of Marquis of Zhenguo Wei Zhong, General Wei Shu, Captains Wei Qin and Wei Feng, and Deputy Captains Wei Ya and Wei Rong, Wei Yun, now the sole surviving son, ordered a retreat to Tianshou Pass to prevent North Qi from launching another attack on Huajing.
In the imperial court, Crown Prince Li Huan quickly sought to absolve himself of blame for the catastrophic defeat. He falsely claimed that Wei Zhong was reckless and greedy for glory, ignoring his advice to not pursue a retreating or cornered foe, which led to the ambush and the loss of seventy thousand elite Great Sui soldiers. When questioned by Emperor Chunde, General Yao Yong corroborated Li Huan's fabricated account.
Duke of Ning, Wang Jingzhi, also weighed in, stating that while the Crown Prince wasn't entirely blameless, his youth and lack of command authority meant his inability to stop Wei Zhong, despite sensing danger, was understandable. Wang Jingzhi further pressed the Emperor, emphasizing that the loss of seventy thousand elite troops was immense, and the Wei family could not escape blame. He urged the Emperor to decide quickly, especially with Wei Yun returning with the coffins.
Emperor Chunde decided to defer the investigation of the Wei family until after the Marquis's burial, leaving the matter to the Court of Judicial Review. The Emperor, weary, worried that Great Sui no longer had generals to defend its borders, and with a useless Crown Prince, wondered if peace with North Qi was inevitable, and what the future held for Great Sui. Meanwhile, Chu Yu was filled with unease.
Her maid, Wanyue, burst in with devastating news: the Wei Army had been defeated, their entire clan wiped out, and seventy thousand soldiers had perished in Baidi Valley. Chu Yu was stunned. Wei Yun, stained with blood from battle, returned to Huajing escorting the coffins containing his father, Wei Zhong, and his six brothers. Liu Xueyang, the matriarch of the Wei family, along with her daughters-in-law, wept mournfully as they greeted the returning coffins.
Despite their profound grief, Liu Xueyang declared her husband and sons heroes, men of loyalty and honor who died for Great Sui, praising their bravery. Then, Chu Yu arrived, clad in a red wedding dress, determined to fulfill a promise. Liu Xueyang questioned if Chu Yu was there to shame the Wei family. Chu Yu revealed that she and Wei Jun had secretly agreed to marry upon his return from battle, and she was there to honor that promise.
Wei Yun, holding a sword, stated that his brother had never mentioned such an arrangement to him. Chu Yu retorted that Wei Yun couldn't possibly know what had passed between them. Liu Xueyang, recalling a conversation where Wei Jun had promised to marry after his victorious return, assumed he meant Chu Yu. Distraught, she implored Chu Yu to leave, saying that her son had gone to the afterlife alone and had failed Chu Yu.
Liu Xueyang reminded Chu Yu that if she were to marry now, she would immediately become a widow, and asked if her own mother knew of her intentions. Chu Yu recounted how she had openly confessed her feelings to Wei Jun at the Spring Breeze House, where everyone else mocked her, but only Wei Jun understood her courage to love. At the Chu family mansion, Chu Yu’s mother confronted her daughter about her choice.
Chu Yu declared her intent to marry Wei Jun and fulfill their promise, asserting that no one would stop her. Her mother accused her of wanting to ruin the Chu family's reputation and asked Chu Linyang to intervene. Chu Linyang confessed he had no other option and convinced his mother to let Chu Yu go.
Before Chu Yu departed, her mother sternly warned her that if she dared to step out of the Chu family gates that day, she would no longer be considered a member of the Chu family. Outside the Wei mansion, before the watchful eyes of Huajing's citizens, Chu Yu knelt. She acknowledged that marriage required parental consent and a matchmaker's words but declared that she would only follow her heart.
Liu Xueyang again expressed her reluctance to let Chu Yu enter, highlighting the inevitable widowhood. Chu Yu appealed to Liu Xueyang’s own experience of losing her beloved, asking her to understand her current pain. Chu Yu then dramatically cut her hair as a solemn vow, proclaiming her marriage to Wei Jun, without regret. She declared Wei Jun her husband, pledging to mourn him and live as his widow.
She threatened to remain kneeling there until Wei Jun was laid to rest if she was denied entry. A family member advised Liu Xueyang that, with the entire city witnessing Chu Yu's actions, turning her away would only make her life harder. Liu Xueyang relented, allowing Chu Yu to enter and change her clothes, postponing further discussions until after the burial. Wei Yun tried to protest, but Liu Xueyang, weary, instructed him to take his father and brothers home first.
Troubled by the news of Chu Yu marrying into the Wei family as a widow, Gu Chusheng was haunted by memories of their past. Overcome with emotion, he coughed up a mouthful of blood that spattered onto drawing paper, resembling a red plum blossom. His servant tried to replace his old inkstone with a new one from his wife, Wang Linlang, the Duke of Ning's daughter.
Gu Chusheng refused, dismissing his servant's remark about Chu Yu with an order to leave. He then recalled a time when he had physically assaulted someone for slandering Chu Yu, abandoning his gentlemanly conduct. Chu Yu, seeing his passion, playfully offered to teach him martial arts so he could protect her better, but he countered by saying he'd rather she always stay by his side. She, in turn, promised to protect him for life.
He remembered Chu Yu gifting him an inkstone, wishing him success in his imperial exams. He also recalled his wedding night with Wang Linlang, where he simply stated they were both tired and should rest early, indicating his emotional distance and the absence of marital relations between them. Meanwhile, Chu Linyang, concerned for Chu Yu, sent Wanyue to join her at the Wei family mansion.
Chu Yu, preparing to go to the mourning hall, told Wanyue to stay in her room, despite Wanyue's insistence on accompanying her. Just as Chu Yu was about to leave, urgent cries for the "Second Madam" erupted from the mourning hall, suggesting yet another crisis had struck the grieving Wei family.
Episode 4 Recap
In the Wei family's mourning hall, as everyone gathered, the Second Madam, Jiang Chun, attempted to hang herself, distraught over the death of her husband, Wei Shu. Her maids frantically called for help, and Chu Yu arrived just in time to cut her down, saving her life. Chu Yu urged Jiang Chun to reconsider, explaining that suicide only caused more trouble for others and solved nothing.
When Chu Yu brought up Jiang Chun’s son, Lingchun, Jiang Chun came to her senses. Liu Xueyang, the matriarch, further consoled Jiang Chun, reminding her that with Wei Jun, her eldest son, unmarried, Jiang Chun held the position of the eldest daughter-in-law in the household. Liu Xueyang then entrusted the family’s Commanding Jade Seal to Jiang Chun, hoping to inspire her to recover and take charge. Jiang Chun, touched, promised to protect the family.
Meanwhile, Wei Yun confronted Chu Yu, questioning her intentions for joining the Wei family. Chu Yu offered a vague explanation, implying her admiration for Wei Jun. Wei Yun dismissed this, accusing her of plotting and orchestrating events from the Spring Breeze House incident to her presence in the Wei family today. He suspected she had ulterior motives related to the Marquis of Zhenguo's residence rather than his brother.
Chu Yu retorted that instead of focusing on her reasons for being there, Wei Yun should concentrate on seeking justice for his father, brothers, and the 70,000 fallen Wei family soldiers. Soon after, Liu Xueyang chided Wei Yun for his disrespect towards Chu Yu, and he departed for the mourning hall. Liu Xueyang then spoke privately with Chu Yu, acknowledging her role as Wei Jun’s widow in the eyes of outsiders.
However, she clarified that since Wei Jun's marriage to Chu Yu was not formalized with traditional rites, Chu Yu was free to leave the Wei family without obligation once the funeral was complete. Chu Yu simply replied that she would consider it and inform Liu Xueyang of her decision. Later, Chu Yu found her maid, Wanyue, rummaging through Wei Jun's study. Chu Yu instructed Wanyue not to touch Wei Jun’s belongings again.
She explained that she and Chu Linyang had struggled immensely to even pinpoint a vague mountain location related to the Arsenal Bureau, so Wanyue wouldn't find any clues by simply searching the study. Chu Yu also shared that she had locked her own father’s study after his death, keeping everything as it was, to feel as if he were still with her.
She stated that Wei Jun had been an upright man, and her actions were a way of reciprocating his integrity, implying she was trying to help his family. As the Wei family coffins were being transported for burial, Cao Yan, Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, blocked their path. He announced he was acting under imperial decree to arrest Wei Yun, accusing the Wei family of overreaching and causing the deaths of 70,000 soldiers in Baidi Valley.
The surrounding crowd echoed these accusations, condemning the Wei family. Wei Yun pleaded with Cao Yan to allow his father and brothers to be buried before he would comply, but Cao Yan refused, even threatening to seize the coffins and move them to the Court of Judicial Review. Wei Yun defiantly stood before Cao Yan, ready to fight if the coffins were touched.
Liu Xueyang, seeing her youngest son's rising fury and determined to prove the Wei family’s loyalty, tragically struck her head against her husband's coffin, sacrificing herself to affirm their innocence. Witnessing his mother's sudden death after losing his father and brothers, Wei Yun was consumed by grief. As Cao Yan prepared to have his men advance, Chu Yu stepped forward, taking a whip lash across her back meant for Wei Yun.
Outraged by Cao Yan's cruelty, loyal citizens in the crowd protested, but Cao Yan dismissed them as rabble and ordered their arrest alongside Wei Yun. To spare further harm to the innocent bystanders, Wei Yun agreed to go with Cao Yan to the Court of Judicial Review. At that moment, Grand Tutor Xie Mingyi arrived. He admonished Cao Yan for his disrespect towards the unconvicted Wei family, emphasizing their noble status.
The Grand Tutor subtly implied that Cao Yan's actions might be a personal vendetta, warning him against being accused of abusing his authority. Unwilling to risk such an accusation, Cao Yan relented, allowing Wei Yun to proceed with the funeral rites before surrendering. After the Grand Tutor's intervention, the Wei family bowed deeply in gratitude. Jiang Chun, grieving Liu Xueyang's sacrifice, proposed that Liu Xueyang be buried in the same coffin as Wei Zhong.
Following the emotional burial ceremony, during which Wei Yun solemnly swore to uncover the truth and protect his family and the nation, Cao Yan immediately apprehended Wei Yun and took him to the Court of Judicial Review for interrogation. Everyone knew that imprisonment there meant severe torture, but defying an imperial decree was not an option, as the already devastated Wei family could not bear another charge of defying an imperial edict.
Back at the Wei residence, Wanyue tended to Chu Yu's whipped back. Wanyue expressed her concern, regretting not being there to protect Chu Yu earlier and scolding her for not prioritizing her own safety. Chu Yu explained that Wanyue’s fiery temper would have only exacerbated the conflict with Cao Yan. Wanyue suggested they should investigate quickly and return home, but Chu Yu insisted they could not leave. She empathized with Wei Yun's plight, having lost his entire immediate family.
Chu Yu reflected that while her own family motto emphasized self-preservation in battle, the selflessness of the Wei family had moved her. She believed there would always be heroes who sacrificed for justice, and if she could not be a hero herself, she would protect their integrity. Chu Yu affirmed that the day's events had strengthened her resolve to uncover the truth behind the octagonal crossbow case.
She explained that saving Wei Yun was crucial because if he were convicted and the Wei family fell, the supervision of the Arsenal Bureau, a vital military site, would fall into other hands, making her investigation much more difficult. Therefore, she was determined to rescue him. At the Court of Judicial Review, Cao Yan taunted Wei Yun, who was suspended and being tortured.
Cao Yan sarcastically remarked on Wei Yun's defiant gaze and questioned if he would dare to retaliate even if freed. Wei Yun accused Cao Yan of being manipulated, suggesting his actions were not under imperial order but driven by someone else. Wei Yun then deduced that the Duke of Ning, the head of civil officials and the greatest beneficiary of the Wei family’s downfall, was the true instigator. He warned Cao Yan that the Emperor despised factionalism.
Cao Yan acknowledged Wei Yun's astuteness but mockingly questioned what Wei Yun could do with this knowledge, implying Wei Yun would not leave the prison alive. Cao Yan then pressed Wei Yun to confess to causing the deaths of the 70,000 soldiers. Despite the agony, Wei Yun steadfastly denied the charges, proclaiming the Wei family's innocence. Cao Yan's chilling laughter filled the chamber, signaling more brutal torture to come.
Episode 5 Recap
In the wake of the tragedy, the wives of the Wei family gathered to discuss their future. Fifth Lady Xie Jiu declared that the death of 70,000 soldiers would bring trouble even to their families, and they must decide whether to leave or stay. She clarified that her desire to leave was not to remarry, prompting Third Lady Zhang Han to question if she harbored no affection for her husband, Wei Ya, after all these years.
Second Lady Jiang Chun firmly stated she would not leave, vowing to protect the Wei family as her late mother-in-law had entrusted it to her. Lady Wang Lan, who was pregnant, admitted she did not want to leave but was being pressured by her father to return home and give birth. Another unnamed lady felt trapped and unsure what to do.
One of the wives criticized Xie Jiu, saying that while Xie Jiu had no children and could leave freely, their own children were still in the mansion, making Xie Jiu's suggestion to leave heartbreaking. Just then, Chu Yu entered, interrupting their discussion. Xie Jiu challenged her, implying Chu Yu, as Wei Jun’s betrothed, a woman of deep loyalty, would surely condemn Xie Jiu's "ungrateful" decision to leave.
Chu Yu, however, stated that she cared little for reputation and would never constrain them. Having seen the world beyond Huajing City, she believed each woman should decide her own life. Though some found her words inappropriate, Chu Yu brought the conversation back to the immediate crisis: Wei Yun was still imprisoned, and none of them could leave without his divorce papers. She urged them to unite and help secure Wei Yun’s release first.
Xie Jiu agreed, acknowledging that Chu Yu’s point was valid and rescuing Wei Yun was their top priority. Later, Chu Yu observed Xie Jiu burning letters for her late husband, Wei Ya. Chu Yu approached, noting that Xie Jiu was not as heartless as she claimed, but rather a woman of deep affection. Xie Jiu denied it, asserting all her actions were for her own benefit.
Chu Yu understood that Xie Jiu's family, the Xie clan, favored legitimate children, making Xie Jiu's journey through life difficult. Xie Jiu confessed her struggle to survive, saying her life was not her own, and she couldn't die for her husband like Jiang Chun had attempted, despite missing him every moment.
Chu Yu reassured her that she was not wrong, needed no guilt, and should not be confined by traditional notions of virtue, as true loyalty was not proven by a mere monument. Touched, Xie Jiu thanked Chu Yu for her understanding and affirmed that her great-uncle, Grand Tutor Xie, would indeed intervene in Wei Yun’s case without needing her prompting. A few days later, Gu Chusheng sent a note to Chu Yu through his page, Zhang Deng, requesting a meeting.
Chu Yu, however, decided not to meet him, believing it was not the time for personal matters while the Wei family faced such a crisis. Chu Yu then secretly returned to her family mansion and met with her elder brother, Chu Linyang. She thanked him, realizing he was behind Grand Tutor Xie's appearance at the Wei family's funeral procession.
Chu Linyang confirmed it, recounting how he had stopped Grand Tutor Xie’s carriage and reminded him of the Wei family’s century-long loyalty and countless sacrifices, such as General Wei Chengyun and General Wei Jingyi, who valiantly defended the nation while their own families suffered. Chu Linyang questioned whether such loyal heroes deserved less respect than corrupt officials, pleading with Grand Tutor Xie to restore the Wei family's dignity.
However, Chu Linyang cautioned that Grand Tutor Xie’s influence alone was insufficient to free Wei Yun; they needed someone with an extraordinary bond with the Emperor. Chu Yu immediately realized he was referring to the Eldest Princess. Recalling Gu Chusheng’s recent note, Chu Yu decided to leverage his status as Wang Linlang’s husband and the Duke of Ning’s esteemed son-in-law to gain an audience with the Eldest Princess. She arranged to meet Gu Chusheng at Qinxi Valley.
Gu Chusheng questioned why she had not sought his help sooner and suggested she leave the Wei family to avoid entanglement. Just then, the Eldest Princess Li Changming arrived. Chu Yu introduced herself and Gu Chusheng, highlighting his renowned status as a top scholar who had excelled in three imperial examinations. The Eldest Princess was impressed and offered Gu Chusheng a position as her retainer, promising him advancement, but he politely declined, stating his loyalties lay elsewhere.
The Eldest Princess then asked Gu Chusheng whether she should help Wei Yun, to which he replied it depended on Chu Yu’s plea. The Eldest Princess found Chu Yu's approach bold and calculating, but Chu Yu explained her desperate situation. Chu Yu then praised the Eldest Princess's past charitable work, such as personally aiding flood victims in the Shu Region three times, implying that a person of such righteousness would not stand by as the Wei family crumbled.
Xue Hanmei, the Princess's follower, interjected, suggesting that the Wei family's recent defeat might be more complex than it appeared and that the Emperor always sought to balance civil and military powers. The Eldest Princess noted Chu Yu’s sharp intellect, remarking that it was a pity she was a woman, to which Chu Yu countered that women were capable of great achievements, a sentiment she believed the Princess shared.
The Eldest Princess then hinted that there was indeed a way to help Wei Yun. Chu Yu thanked her and departed. After Chu Yu left, the Eldest Princess questioned Xue Hanmei’s intervention. He explained that helping Wei Yun now, when the Wei family was vulnerable, would earn the Princess Wei Yun’s lasting gratitude. He also observed that Chu Yu’s fierce dedication reminded him of the Eldest Princess in her youth.
The Eldest Princess pointed out that helping Wei Yun would antagonize the Duke of Ning and his faction. Xue Hanmei countered that the Duke of Ning was stubborn and it was more beneficial to support a useful individual like Wei Yun. The Eldest Princess, wanting a more personal response, told him to reconsider his answer. Xue Hanmei immediately pledged his absolute loyalty, vowing to protect her with his life.
The Eldest Princess accepted his loyalty but warned him not to interfere in her discussions in such a manner again. Gu Chusheng then confronted Chu Yu, accusing her of using him as a mere stepping stone, feeling insulted. Chu Yu calmly stated she had merely chosen a discreet meeting place and pointed out his earlier eagerness to help, subtly hinting that she had other means if he chose not to assist. Later, Chu Yu visited Wei Yun in prison.
Wei Yun questioned her continued presence, asserting that the Wei family could barely protect itself and warning her against using them for her own family’s protection, telling her to abandon her "righteous act." Chu Yu affirmed her genuine sincerity towards Wei Jun, vowing never to harm the Wei family. She proposed a bet: she would get him out, and in return, he would allow her to stay in the Wei family. Wei Yun accepted.
To ensure he would fight to survive, Chu Yu warned him that if he died in prison, she would "scourge his family" and turn it upside down. Wei Yun then asked her to find Song Wenchang, the eldest son of the Duke of Hu, and bring him to the prison. Song Wenchang rushed to Dali Temple to see Wei Yun.
He apologized for missing the funeral, explaining that his father, the Duke of Hu, had forbidden him from attending, almost causing a serious rift between them. Wei Yun understood his father's actions but asked Song Wenchang to apologize to the Duke of Hu and deliver an item: the Red Shadow Sword.
Wei Yun explained that while his father had prevented his presence at the funeral, the Duke of Hu still possessed the military spirit and would not want the Wei family to utterly collapse. The sword was a reminder of a past favor, when the Marquis of Zhenguo had guaranteed the Song family's safety during the Lord of Qin's treason case, saving them from ruin.
Upon returning to his mansion, Song Wenchang attempted to give his father the Red Shadow Sword, reminding him of the Wei family’s past kindness and urging him to repay the debt. The Duke of Hu vehemently refused to touch the sword, feigning a sudden back injury to escape Song Wenchang's insistence. Song Shilan, the Duke of Hu’s second son from a concubine, tried to intervene, but Song Wenchang dismissed him rudely.
The Duke of Hu explained that intervening in Wei Yun’s case, which involved the deaths of 70,000 soldiers, would brand him an accomplice and doom their own family. Song Wenchang, still resolute, insisted on helping Wei Yun. The Duke of Hu, increasingly frustrated, praised his other children, his daughter for being a respected physician and his younger son for holding a high official post, while calling Song Wenchang a "playboy" who only brought trouble to the family.
He then continued his act, feigning severe back pain and left with his daughter, successfully evading his son. Song Shilan again tried to explain the complexities of the political situation to his brother, but Song Wenchang ignored him. Armed with the Eldest Princess’s guidance, Chu Yu understood that to persuade the Emperor, they needed a compelling reason that transcended legal principles and garnered human sympathy and justice, offering him a dignified "out."
She approached Jiang Chun and asked her to join in a risky endeavor: kneeling before the palace gates. Chu Yu explained they would carry the ancestral tablets of the Wei family, asking Jiang Chun to bring the tablet of her husband, Wei Shu, and emphasized that only the two of them should go, as involving fewer people was safer given that the other wives might eventually leave the Wei family. Jiang Chun readily agreed, grateful for Chu Yu’s tireless efforts.
Chu Yu also expressed her personal commitment to saving Wei Yun, not just for the Wei family, but also for Wei Jun, whom she considered her own brother. Dressed in mourning clothes, Chu Yu, carrying the tablet of the Marquis of Zhenguo, and Jiang Chun, carrying Wei Shu’s tablet, knelt before the Chengqing Gate, requesting an audience with the Emperor. The palace guards informed them they couldn't enter without a summons.
Chu Yu calmly stated that if they had a summons, they wouldn't be kneeling there. They declared they would not leave until the Emperor granted them an audience, even if they turned to stone. A minister reported their actions to the Emperor, dismissing it as a theatrical display to pressure His Majesty using military merits.
As Chu Yu and Jiang Chun knelt from dawn until dusk, the other four Wei wives, including Xie Jiu, Wang Lan, and Third Lady Zhang Han, appeared, also dressed in mourning clothes and carrying their deceased husbands’ tablets. They knelt in a solemn row beside Chu Yu and Jiang Chun. Xie Jiu explained that Wei Yun needed her, and while she intended to leave, she felt obligated to help while still part of the family.
Wang Lan joined, stating that Wei Yun was her husband’s most beloved brother, and he would be displeased if she did not come. The Third Lady stated this was the last thing she could do for her husband. Chu Yu expressed her profound gratitude for their sisterhood, and another wife remarked that having endured the hardest paths together, this final journey was of little consequence. As they knelt, a figure approached them from behind.
Episode 6 Recap
The Wei clan, including their elderly, infirm, women, and children, knelt steadfastly outside the palace gates in the bitter wind and snow, each bearing a memorial tablet. They declared that the Wei family's century of merit, earned through countless lives, would not be allowed to fall. They vowed to remain kneeling indefinitely, even unto death, to uphold Wei Yun.
In a private moment, Chu Yu spoke to the spirit tablet of her late husband, Wei Jun, acknowledging his broken promise but hailing him as a hero who died for the state. She solemnly vowed to uncover the truth behind the leaked crossbow plans and ensure justice, promising his spirit could rest in peace.
Meanwhile, in prison, Wei Yun was offered meager food by a subordinate of Minister Cao Yan, who mockingly suggested Wei Yun was accustomed to such fare from his campaigns and taunted him that no one would visit him again. Among the kneeling women, Chu Yu noticed Third Lady Zhang Han and Sixth Lady Wang Lan, who was pregnant, struggling.
She instructed Wei Qiu to escort Lady Han back to the mansion, and at Lady Han's request to protect the pregnant Wang Lan, Chu Yu also had Lady Lan escorted back. As officials arrived for morning court, some expressed sympathy for the kneeling Wei family. Deputy Minister Zhang An chose a side gate out of respect for the heroes and martyrs. Cao Yan, scoffing at this as mere pretense, entered through the main gate.
Approaching Chu Yu, who knelt steadfastly, Cao Yan openly mocked her actions, questioning the purpose of laws if sentiment could sway the Emperor. Duke of Ning, Wang Jingzhi, supported Cao Yan, accusing Chu Yu of ignoring the law and coercing the throne. An unnamed academician countered that laws should serve the people, not be rigid, implicitly criticizing Cao Yan and Duke of Ning.
When Cao Yan later pressed Academician Gu Chusheng for his interpretation of the academician's words, Gu Chusheng deftly evaded the question, urging Cao Yan to hurry due to the impending snow. Despite the harsh conditions, Chu Yu remained resolute, telling a worried younger woman, who had called her "Sister," that she was fine and would not turn back, affirming her unwavering commitment.
Chu Linyang, despite being injured since returning from Fengling City and having taken sick leave from court, prepared to attend. His mother, Madam Xie Yun, tried to dissuade him, reminding him that Chu Yu was now married into the Wei family and he should avoid attracting suspicion, especially given the Chu family's vulnerable position against Duke of Ning.
His sister, Chu Jin, even threatened to disown him as a brother if he stepped out the door, arguing that Chu Yu's suffering was her own doing. But Chu Linyang remained firm, explaining to his mother that while someone shielded them from the storm at the Chu Mansion, Chu Yu faced the palace gates alone.
He declared he was going not for anyone else, but solely for his sister, insisting he couldn't stand by while she carried the Wei family's burden alone. He assured Chu Jin that he would do the same for her if she were in Chu Yu's position, but ultimately asserted his resolve to go, walking out despite her desperate plea.
In the morning court, officials urged the Emperor to release Wei Yun, citing a lack of solid evidence from Minister Cao Yan. Chu Linyang, despite his injuries, made an impassioned plea, stating his father died for the state, and now his sister was upholding the Wei family's honor alone. Duke of Ning accused Chu Linyang of manipulating the Emperor with sentiment.
Cao Yan requested more time, promising to uncover the truth, while Duke of Ning reminded everyone of the 70,000 soldiers lost due to Wei Zhong's perceived rashness, questioning if their lives mattered less than the Wei family's. Eldest Princess Li Changming then entered, playfully chiding Duke of Ning about his lack of battlefield experience. She told the Emperor she came because the matter concerned Crown Prince Li Huan.
She subtly encouraged Li Huan to speak, emphasizing his maturity and understanding of the Emperor’s impartiality. Taking her cue, Crown Prince Li Huan pleaded with his father to spare Wei Yun, highlighting the Wei family's unwavering loyalty and contributions to the state, arguing their merits outweighed any faults.
Li Changming then added her voice, cautioning the Emperor that allowing the widows and orphans of a family that had fought for four generations to suffer would chill the hearts of the 70,000 soldiers who died for Great Sui. Many other officials joined the chorus, begging for Wei Yun's release. Minister Cao Yan, however, continued to insist on upholding the law.
Finally, the Duke of Hu, after criticizing Cao Yan's "wild" talk, added his significant voice, saying his plea should carry weight. The Chancellor then suggested that His Majesty visit the Madam of the Marquis of Zhenguo, Chu Yu, at the palace gates, promising that seeing her would make the Emperor understand their desperate pleas. The Emperor, swayed by the court's pleas, went to the palace gate. Minister Cao Yan, still unrepentant, mocked Chu Yu's display as a pretense.
The Emperor addressed Chu Yu, asking her identity and purpose. She introduced herself as Chu Yu, wife of General Wei Jun and daughter of Chu Jianchang, and humbly requested Wei Yun's release. Acknowledging the importance of state law, she passionately defended the Wei family's unwavering loyalty and devotion to the realm, stating that she knew no crime they or Wei Yun had committed.
She implored the Emperor that if Wei Yun must be punished, he should be allowed to die on the battlefield, preserving the Wei family's honor, rather than languishing in prison. Moved by her conviction, the Emperor ordered Wei Yun to be brought to court. Wei Yun was brought before the court, barely able to kneel, his body visibly tormented.
The Emperor was shocked and furious, demanding to know why Wei Yun was so grievously injured when only imprisonment had been ordered. He lashed out at Cao Yan, accusing the Court of Judicial Review of incompetence and resorting to torture.
Cao Yan nervously claimed to have acted strictly under imperial orders, but Wei Yun, in a pained and defiant voice, immediately challenged him, questioning if whipping his father's and brothers' coffins, humiliating Chu Yu, and driving his mother to her death were also by imperial decree. He asserted that his guilt should be judged by the Emperor, not by Cao Yan's private abuses. Cao Yan desperately sought help from Duke of Ning, who, sensing the tide turning, abandoned him.
The Chancellor further denounced Cao Yan's actions. Enraged, the Emperor ordered Cao Yan's immediate arrest for dereliction of duty and abuse of power, sending him to the dungeon to await judgment. Wei Yun was then pardoned. The Emperor, recalling Wei Zhong as his childhood companion, expressed his sorrow and compassion for the Wei family, urging Wei Yun to live well and restore the Wei household, stating that as long as Wei Yun lived, the Wei family's spirit would endure.
In response, Wei Yun, acknowledging he did not understand many complex matters, steadfastly declared his identity as a Wei family member, vowing to protect the realm, the land, and its people with unwavering loyalty, even unto death. Wei Yun, frail and stumbling, emerged from the palace into the wind and snow. A few steps away, Chu Yu remained kneeling amidst the memorial tablets, looking even more desolate. As Wei Yun slowly approached, he angled his umbrella to shield her.
Regaining consciousness, Chu Yu looked up and saw him. He told her he had returned alive. She responded, "Good, you didn't keep me waiting long." The Emperor attempted to bridge the emotional distance with his sister, Eldest Princess Li Changming, by offering her a bowl of centennial soup, her childhood favorite. Li Changming politely declined, stating her tastes had changed, but affirmed she would visit if summoned.
She then directly confronted the Emperor about the instability of his imperial rule, highlighting the military's weakened state after the successive losses of Chu and Wei generals. She emphasized that the state had been at war for years, and with Wei Zhong gone, not releasing Wei Yun would leave a critical void in leadership when new conflicts arose.
She acknowledged his desire to balance civil and military powers and Duke of Ning's push for peace talks with North Qi for recuperation, but warned against negotiating from a position of weakness. She reminded him that his rule was founded on her sacrifice, "built with her blood and tears." The Emperor, reassuring her that he had a plan and would not let her down, received her acknowledgment before she took her leave, reiterating her reluctance to revisit painful past events.
After her departure, the Emperor reflected on Li Changming's immense sacrifice: her marriage to the Jinxi Military Governor to secure his ascension, and the subsequent torture she endured. He recognized that despite escaping her misery, she had never truly healed, and he felt a deep, unresolved debt to her.
Chu Yu's maid observed her mistress's fear of medicine, remarking that Chu Yu had fallen ill more frequently in the Wei household in a few days than she ever did during her time in the Southwest. Despite her ailing health, Chu Yu remained resolute, stating firmly that she did not regret saving Wei Yun. Chu Linyang visited Chu Yu at the Wei mansion, concerned about her health, and urged her to return home.
He argued that there were many ways to uncover the truth without her enduring such hardship. Chu Yu, however, asserted her resolve, stating that her investigation was far from over and she believed that just as winter's snow melts for spring flowers, justice would eventually prevail. She also highlighted her success in saving Wei Yun that day.
When Chu Linyang's subordinate later reported back, he confirmed that Chu Yu insisted on staying, despite her brother's wishes, and only required a few days of rest to recover. Duke of Ning, Wang Jingzhi, was furious with his son-in-law, Gu Chusheng, for not supporting him in court. He questioned Gu Chusheng's loyalty, reminding him of who was responsible for his current success.
When Wang Linlang attempted to calm her father with a cup of tea and defended Gu Chusheng, her father turned the tea into a tool of intimidation. He ordered Gu Chusheng to drink the hot tea, then deliberately filled the cup to the brim, causing it to overflow and scald Gu Chusheng's hands. Gu Chusheng, unable to let go, stoically endured the burning pain.
Once Duke of Ning stopped pouring, Gu Chusheng immediately drained the scalding tea, with Wang Linlang crying out in alarm. Duke of Ning warned him to be obedient, or he could return to the Southwest where he would only have "cold tea" to drink. Gu Chusheng humbly promised to remember his father-in-law's teachings.
Episode 7 Recap
Wang Linlang quickly attended to Gu Chusheng’s scalded hand, expressing her concern. Gu Chusheng, given the opportunity by Wang Jingzhi to explain the situation, skillfully interpreted the Emperor’s subtle intentions regarding the Wei family. Wang Jingzhi, finding his reasoning sound, decided not to pursue the matter further. With Cao Yan’s imprisonment, the position of Minister of Justice became vacant.
Wang Jingzhi offered to speak to the Emperor about appointing Gu Chusheng to the role for experience, an offer Gu Chusheng gratefully accepted. Wang Linlang continued to fret over Gu Chusheng's throat and hand, but he assured her it was nothing and that he needed to finish his current drafts before moving to his new assignment.
Privately, Gu Chusheng, keenly aware of the Duke of Ning’s deep-seated animosity towards the Wei family, believed that Chu Yu was in a precarious situation. He reflected on Chu Yu's own past assertion that a woman's dignity should prevent her from kneeling lightly, yet she had knelt for the Wei family, a group he considered unrelated to her, suggesting a worrying change.
He firmly resolved that he could not allow her to remain in the Wei Mansion, which he perceived as a dangerous place and a constant source of trouble for the Duke. Meanwhile, Wei Yun, having recovered from his injuries, dedicated himself to relentless sword training. While imprisoned, the physical torment had offered a temporary reprieve from the profound grief of losing his family.
Now, in the quiet of the Wei Mansion, he was haunted by cherished memories of his family: his father’s gentle encouragement, his brothers' playful banter and solemn promises of protection, and his mother’s simple wish for them all to remain together. These poignant recollections underscored the stark emptiness of his home. He yearned for his lost loved ones, expressing his deep longing for them.
Wei Yun secluded himself in his room, prompting a worried Jiang Chun to seek Chu Yu’s help. Chu Yu agreed to intervene, first orchestrating for Jiang Chun’s children to call out to their "Uncle Yun." She also spoke to Wei Yun through the door, reminding him that as the sole remaining backbone of the Wei family, he had a duty to restore its honor and thoroughly investigate the Baidi Valley incident to avenge the 70,000 fallen.
Lured out by the children, Wei Yun faced his sisters-in-law. Prompted by a dream where his brothers urged him not to confine their wives—especially his fourth sister-in-law and another named Jiu'er—to the Wei Mansion, he had already prepared divorce papers for all of them, including Chu Yu. He presented these, explaining that while they were now free, they would always remain family, and the Wei Mansion's doors would forever be open to them.
Just then, Jiang Chun revealed news from her brother in the Ministry of Personnel: the imperial decree to confer the Marquis of Zhenguo title upon Wei Yun was being drafted. This offered a new reason for the sisters-in-law to stay and lend their support during Wei Yun's enfeoffment banquet, a suggestion they all agreed upon.
Wei Yun then directly offered Chu Yu her divorce paper again, pointing out her youth and the limited connection she shared with his late brother, Wei Jun, and suggesting she remarry. He promised to speak well of her brother, Chu Linyang, to the Emperor in exchange for her departure. However, Chu Yu defiantly reminded Wei Yun of their earlier agreement: if she rescued him, he could not force her to leave.
She boldly stated that if he broke his word, she, with her unconventional and rule-breaking nature, could just as easily send him back to prison. Despite her strong words, Wei Yun remained deeply suspicious of Chu Yu, confiding in his personal guard, Wei Qiu. He described Chu Yu as a tiger whose intentions were best observed while kept close, rather than allowing her to roam freely and strike unexpectedly.
He then ordered Wei Qiu to discreetly monitor Chu Yu’s daily activities and meetings. The peace of the Wei Mansion was abruptly shattered by Chu Jin's angry shouts outside the gate, publicly blaming Chu Yu for bringing misfortune upon their brother, Chu Linyang. Chu Jin revealed that Gu Chusheng had impeached Chu Linyang in court, accusing him of overly close ties with the Wei family and demanding his removal from office, driven by jealousy over Chu Yu.
Surprised, Chu Yu pressed Chu Jin on how she knew this. It became clear that Gu Chusheng had previously met with Chu Jin, and, while feigning concern for the Chu family’s standing with the Emperor due to Chu Yu’s marriage into the Wei family, he had cleverly extracted information.
Chu Jin, dismissing the idea of any deep affection between Chu Yu and Wei Jun due to their few meetings, had even suggested that Gu Chusheng’s past pursuit of Chu Yu showed more devotion. Armed with this knowledge, Gu Chusheng had proceeded with the impeachment, a calculated move to indirectly pressure Chu Yu to leave the Wei Mansion.
Chu Jin, still furious, threatened to publicly expose Chu Yu's true intentions and orchestrate her expulsion from the Wei Mansion, leaving her destitute. Chu Yu, however, calmly assured her that she would handle the matter. Wei Yun, having overheard the entire exchange, commented that the impeachment was a broader political maneuver targeting both the Wei and Chu families, not just Chu Linyang. Determined to retaliate, Chu Yu vowed to bring chaos to Gu Chusheng.
Chu Yu, taking the divorce paper from Wei Yun as if complying, instead went directly to the Duke of Ning’s Mansion. There, she calmly sipped tea amidst the opulent surroundings, only to be confronted by an enraged Wang Linlang, who demanded her immediate expulsion. Chu Yu, however, deliberately twisted Gu Chusheng’s impeachment of Chu Linyang, portraying it as a desperate attempt to win her back.
She declared that if her brother’s career was ruined, she would be compelled to marry Gu Chusheng, even as a concubine or mistress, provocatively quoting the saying "wildflowers smell sweeter than home ones." When Gu Chusheng appeared, Chu Yu launched into a theatrical display of feigned deep affection, reminding him of their past vows and publicly pressing him on when he would divorce Wang Linlang.
This public spectacle ignited a furious argument between Wang Linlang and Gu Chusheng, escalating into a full-blown scandal that enraged Wang Jingzhi. The Duke of Ning, prioritizing his family’s reputation, imperiously ordered Gu Chusheng to retract the impeachment the very next morning and ensure Chu Yu remained the First Madam of the Wei family to avoid further disgrace. Having successfully instigated chaos, Chu Yu gracefully departed. She quickly noticed Wei Qiu clumsily tailing her.
Without needing to ask, she knew he was sent by Wei Yun, and cleverly extracted the information that Wei Yun was meeting Lu Qiba, the renowned designer of the octagonal crossbow, that day. After Chu Yu left, Gu Chusheng attempted to explain to Wang Jingzhi that his impeachment of Chu Linyang was a strategic move to curb the military's power and hinder Wei Yun's succession, not a personal ploy to reunite with Chu Yu.
However, Wang Jingzhi remained focused on restoring his family's honor and reiterated his command for Gu Chusheng to resolve the impeachment and keep Chu Yu in her position. Wei Yun arrived at Yixiang House for his meeting with Lu Qiba, the celebrated designer of the octagonal crossbow. He was immediately surrounded by courtesans, who openly mocked the Wei family's misfortunes and Wei Yun's apparent shyness. Wei Yun asked to see Lu Qiba, who soon appeared.
Lu Qiba, a flamboyant and self-proclaimed "weapon's master," fended off an overzealous woman with a "secret tool" before introducing himself with exaggerated boasts. He criticized Wei Yun's serious demeanor, contrasting it with his late brother Wei Jun, whom he described as equally boring but more generous. Wei Yun quickly moved to the pressing issue: the core trigger technique of the octagonal crossbow might have been leaked to North Qi, who were now producing identical weapons.
Lu Qiba vehemently denied this, asserting that only he and Wei Jun knew the core secrets, and the blueprints were secure. However, when Wei Yun described the crossbow's unique and powerful recoil, Lu Qiba immediately recognized it as his design. Disturbed by the evidence, Lu Qiba took the mechanism, vowing to examine it immediately. He then challenged Wei Yun to "catch up to your brother" in skill and insight.
As Wei Yun was once again mobbed by the courtesans, Chu Yu, veiled, appeared and declared Wei Yun was hers, smoothly guiding him away from the throng. Wei Yun, looking up, recognized her familiar face beneath the veil.
Episode 8 Recap
The meeting at Fragrance House with Lu Qiba did not go as Wei Yun had hoped for gaining entry into the Arsenal Bureau. Wei Yun was surrounded by women, and Lu Qiba observed the young lord with a companion. Lu Qiba remarked that he thought Wei Yun was an honorable man who wouldn't be tempted but saw that he "liked this," even saying he had "better potential than Wei Jun."
When Wei Yun pressed for answers on entering the Arsenal Bureau, Lu Qiba scoffed, saying it wasn't easy. He told Wei Yun that he would only be able to enter as the Marquis of Zhenguo after inheriting his title and obtaining the tally. Otherwise, he warned, Wei Yun would "never walk out again."
As Wei Yun left, Chu Yu, who had been present at the Fragrance House and identified herself as the Wei family's First Madam, joined him in his carriage. She explained she came to help, knowing Mingliu, a woman from the house, well. Wei Yun questioned why she returned to the Wei Mansion after taking the divorce paper he had offered. Chu Yu clarified that she had "just borrowed it" and confirmed her brother's matter was settled.
She also asked Wei Yun if Lu Qiba was truly the Arsenal Bureau's master of arms and why he would arrange a meeting at such a place. Wei Yun then asked what she was doing there, and she admitted she came to help, sensing it was his first time and he couldn't manage alone. Nearing the Marquis of Zhenguo's Mansion, a bell in Chu Yu's hair became tangled.
Unable to remove it herself, she pulled Wei Yun into the carriage for help. He hesitated, concerned about propriety, but she insisted, stating she was fully dressed. She urged him to hurry before anyone saw them and became suspicious. Wei Yun was careful not to hurt her while untangling the bell. Upon their arrival, Chun, Wei Yun’s second sister-in-law, saw them together.
Chu Yu quickly explained that she and Wei Yun had met on the road, and he had kindly brought her back, then she hurried inside. Chun then noticed Wei Yun was sweating and asked about it. Wei Yun claimed it was "too hot today," but Chun felt a cool breeze and was perplexed by his statement. He was left holding the bell, with no chance to return it to Chu Yu.
Chu Yu discovered a small puppy in her courtyard and immediately grew fond of it. She decided to keep it, recalling how her own mother, Xie Yun, had never allowed her to have dogs at the Chu family home, but now there was no one to object. She affectionately declared them a "family of three." Her maid noted Chu Yu seemed relaxed, and Chu Yu confirmed that her brother's matter was settled.
She also mentioned her encounter with Lu Qiba, stating Wei Yun had "ruined it" by constantly watching her, preventing her from speaking more. She reiterated her goal for Wei Yun to successfully inherit his title and gain control of the Arsenal Bureau, which would allow her to obtain the tally and enter. Meanwhile, at the Arsenal Bureau, an official showed Lu Qiba a schematic of an octagonal crossbow, pointing out that its mechanism was foreign and not from their bureau.
Lu Qiba revealed it was from Wei Yun. The official then expressed concern that the Arsenal Bureau would soon be under Wei Yun's command, to which Lu Qiba declared his intention to prevent Wei Yun from inheriting the title easily, as he had already "lured him into the plan at Fragrance House" and promised a "good show coming." Indeed, the next day, rumors spread like wildfire across the capital.
Townsfolk gossiped that Seventh Young Master Wei was frequently getting drunk at Fragrance House with different companions each night. Some even claimed he had spent a fortune on a dancer, gotten into a fight, and frequented brothels during the mourning period, predicting the Wei family's downfall. Xie Yun overheard these rumors and grew worried about Chu Yu, suggesting they bring her home from the Wei Mansion.
However, Chu Jin argued that Chu Yu had willingly severed ties to marry into the Wei family and would not return, even when Wei Yun was imprisoned. Inside the Wei Mansion, Chun vehemently denied the rumors, stating that Wei Yun had returned with Chu Yu the previous night. Wei Yun admitted the rumors were not baseless and were part of a scheme, acknowledging they would significantly affect his chances of inheriting the title.
He foresaw the censors impeaching him for his "debauched, immoral" conduct. He realized that Lu Qiba's meeting invitation was a trap. Chun continued to defend him, saying it was natural for a young man his age to have companions, but then mistakenly accused Chu Yu of hiding his actions, even asking if the Wei family couldn't accommodate a dancer if Wei Yun "really liked that Lu Qiba."
Wei Yun clarified he hadn't "bought any dancer" and that it was a "big misunderstanding" he couldn't explain. Faced with the threat to his investiture, Chu Yu proposed a solution: they should still hold the banquet but change its name to a "Thanksgiving Banquet" to honor all those who had helped the Wei family, emphasizing that the Wei family "cannot lose" this battle, even if it's not fought with swords.
Wei Yun, locked in his room, was preoccupied with how to salvage his reputation and ensure the Wei family retained its title, determined not to be outmaneuvered by Lu Qiba. He had previously dismissed the idea of seeking help from prominent figures like the Eldest Princess due to the scandalous nature of the rumors surrounding him. However, a message from Chu Yu's brother indicated that the Emperor was still "considering" Wei Yun's investiture, leaving "room for negotiation."
Wei Yun then ordered his servant to bring Song Shilan from the Duke of Hu's Mansion to him for a meeting. Shortly after, Chu Yu came to Wei Yun's room and found her bell from the previous night hanging there. She showed him her handwritten invitations for the newly named "Thanksgiving Banquet," asking him to review them.
Wei Yun found her handwriting illegible, comparing it to "a pile of kindling," and noted she hadn't inherited her father, General Chu's, calligraphic skill. Chu Yu playfully explained her hands preferred "spears and swords" over books and that her father let her do "whatever I like." She then persuaded Wei Yun to rewrite the invitations, citing her new status as the Wei family's First Madam.
As Wei Yun was completing the task, a small puppy suddenly bounded into the room, causing him to visibly recoil. Chu Yu teased him, asking if he was afraid of dogs, a notion he denied, claiming he was merely worried about harming the animal. She then playfully named the puppy "Xiaoqi," much to Wei Yun's annoyance, who suspected she did it on purpose. She left him to finish the invitations.
Chu Yu also used this moment to probe Wei Yun about the impact of Lu Qiba's actions on his investiture, offering her help if he had any plans. Wei Yun questioned her motives, pointing out that his title didn't affect her status as the First Madam. Chu Yu candidly replied that if he inherited the title, her own status would "rise with it."
The next day, Chu Yu personally delivered an invitation to the Eldest Princess Changming, explaining the banquet was to thank everyone who had supported Wei Yun. The Eldest Princess inquired if there was anything else. Chu Yu, demonstrating her astute understanding of the Princess, presented a unique gift: a set of playing cards featuring portraits of ten of the Eldest Princess's most handsome and talented retainers.
The Eldest Princess was delighted, finding the gift and Chu Yu herself "charming" and "clever." She acknowledged Chu Yu's ability to "please people." As Chu Yu was leaving, Xue Hanmei intercepted her and gave her a silk bundle, stating it "may relieve the Wei family's present worries" and that it was from the Eldest Princess.
Chu Yu, however, subtly questioned if it was truly from the Princess or him, remarking that the Princess's admiration for him must extend beyond his looks. She thanked both for the gift. Later, as the Eldest Princess and Xue Hanmei were fishing, the Princess's maid, Xiang, expressed doubts about the Princess attending Wei Yun's banquet, believing it was purely for the investiture, given Wei Yun's tarnished reputation and lack of widespread support.
The Eldest Princess, however, stated she had "already given her a token," referring to the silk bundle, and was now waiting to "see how she uses it." The Princess then asked Xue Hanmei for his thoughts on whether she should attend. He astutely deduced her concern about upsetting the Emperor's civil-military balance by openly aligning with the Marquis.
Xue Hanmei, however, claimed his thoughts were simpler: he found Chu Yu interesting and compatible with the Princess, and encouraged the Princess to socialize more. The Princess agreed about Chu Yu's charm and then playfully asked if his earlier smile was for Chu Yu or for her. Xue Hanmei deftly sidestepped her advances, explaining he had just returned from the herb fields and might carry "unclean herbs" that could be harmful.
The Princess's maid, Xiang, questioned why Xue Hanmei would harm the Princess, but the Eldest Princess remarked on his unchanging "coldness," which she found endearing. Gu Chusheng met Song Shilan at the Drunken Immortal Tavern. Song Shilan, who served as Vice Minister of Justice, congratulated Gu Chusheng on his recent promotion to Minister of Justice and expressed hope for future guidance.
Gu Chusheng explained his true motive for taking the position: he intended to reopen the Lord of Qin treason case, which he declared vital for his family's honor. He confessed that he would resign once the truth was uncovered, as titles held no personal importance to him. Song Shilan acknowledged Gu Chusheng's talent and empathy, recounting how Gu Chusheng's family suffered, his parents perished, and he himself was exiled to the Southwest due to the case.
Despite public opinion that Gu Chusheng "married into a wealthy household for gain," Song Shilan understood the heavy burden he carried. Gu Chusheng affirmed his commitment to seeking "only the truth and peace of mind," not power or wealth. Song Shilan, deeply moved by Gu Chusheng's resolve and his plea that scholars should not passively allow their land to be ruined, agreed to help.
He warned Gu Chusheng of the dangers involved, noting that the Qin King treason case files required both their signatures to retrieve. Song Shilan assured him he understood his intentions and would assist him. Meanwhile, at the Duke of Hu's Mansion, a conversation amongst the Song family members revealed that Song Shilan had left early to meet with Wei Yun.
They remarked on Wei Yun's recent scandal at Fragrance House and how he "needs to move about now to find a chance," questioning if seeking Song Shilan was an act of desperation. They also discussed invitations to Wei Yun's Thanksgiving banquet and whether they would attend. Separately, Wei Yun had asked Song Wenchang to help him locate the Crown Prince. To Wei Yun's confusion, Song Wenchang led him to an inn.
As they arrived, Chu Yu also appeared, explaining that the Eldest Princess had sent her there to find the Crown Prince. Realizing that the Crown Prince must indeed be inside, Wei Yun followed Song Wenchang into the inn.
Episode 9 Recap
The Crown Prince, Li Huan, was caught secretly meeting a dancer at the Yixiang House, a fact Song Wenchang had discovered by bribing an Eastern Palace eunuch. Song Wenchang, accompanied by Chu Yu and Wei Yun, arrived outside Li Huan's private room. Unwilling to directly expose the Crown Prince, Wei Yun hesitated to open the door.
Impatient with his delay, Chu Yu pushed him, causing him to crash through the door and reveal Li Huan engaged in playful banter with the dancer. Chu Yu confronted the Crown Prince about his inappropriate behavior, especially given his engagement to Tuantuan (Song Qingping), Song Wenchang's sister. Li Huan, however, dismissed her concerns, stating that as Crown Prince, he was entitled to a harem and that Tuantuan, as future Empress, should tolerate other consorts.
He threatened them for barging into his private quarters without summons. Both Wei Yun and Chu Yu retaliated by threatening to report his conduct to the Emperor and Eldest Princess, causing Li Huan to panic and try to stop them. Wei Yun later explained to Chu Yu that the Eldest Princess likely orchestrated Chu Yu's involvement.
Because the Eldest Princess receives treatment for her chronic headaches from Tuantuan and is fond of her, she wanted to indirectly warn the Crown Prince for Tuantuan's sake and, in doing so, also benefit the Wei family. He advised Chu Yu to keep the incident secret. On the day of Wei Yun's Thanksgiving Banquet, the Wei Mansion was eerily quiet, with no guests arriving even after an hour. Wei Yun's nephew, Lingmo, expressed his hunger and impatience.
Wei Yun's third sister-in-law, preparing to leave the mansion after the banquet, made an emotional request to take Wei Qin’s spear as a keepsake. Although another sister-in-law suggested the spears be kept in the mansion as a symbol of the reunited brothers, Wei Yun agreed, noting that the spear's true value would be in reminding them of their departed loved ones.
As the lack of guests continued to cast a pall, Chu Yu, unwavering, made a bet with a skeptical Wei Yun that people would still come. Moments later, Chu Linyang and Chu Jin arrived. Chu Jin made snide remarks about Chu Yu's marriage into the Wei family and the sparse attendance, prompting Chu Linyang to scold her for her rudeness. Wei Yun observed that the other guests were likely waiting for a "moment" to arrive.
That moment came with the grand announcement of the Eldest Princess's arrival. She revealed she came precisely because she heard no one else was there, and personally thanked Chu Yu for defending Tuantuan's honor, presenting gifts. Following her lead, many other officials and their families, including Young Master Sun, Song Wenchang, Song Qingping (Tuantuan), and Song Shilan, began to pour into the mansion.
Song Wenchang proudly presented Wei Yun with a large, intricately crafted miniature mountain, explaining it symbolized stability and resilience, and prematurely congratulated him on inheriting the title of Marquis. Wei Yun, embarrassed, reminded him that it was merely a Thanksgiving Banquet. Amidst the ongoing festivities, Tuantuan approached Chu Yu, thanking her for her help with the Crown Prince and stating she would reconsider her marriage to him, inviting Chu Yu to call her "Tuantuan."
The Crown Prince then made a dramatic entrance, carrying an imperial decree. He publicly proclaimed Wei Yun as the Marquis of Zhenguo, praising his talent and loyalty. The decree further granted Wei Yun a tally and appointed him Commander of the Arsenal Bureau, tasked with overseeing its operations. The Crown Prince then addressed the Yixiang House incident, declaring it a misunderstanding that the Emperor had investigated.
He publicly shifted the blame to Song Wenchang, stating that Song Wenchang's "youthful folly" led to a dispute at the Yixiang House, and Wei Yun had merely intervened to help a friend. Song Wenchang reluctantly accepted the blame, while the Crown Prince sternly warned him to reform his ways.
After their decisive intervention, which served as a "mooring needle" stabilizing the Wei family's position, the Eldest Princess and Crown Prince departed quickly, with the Eldest Princess inviting the Crown Prince to join her for flower viewing. As guests continued to mingle, Wei Yun observed Gu Chusheng and Chu Yu discreetly leaving the main hall. Gu Chusheng, now the Minister of Justice, intercepted Chu Yu in a pavilion.
He directly asked if her marriage into the Wei family was for investigating a case and offered his assistance. He revealed that his examination of the Lord of Qin's treason case files, dating back over twenty years, had uncovered shocking information potentially linking the Chu and Wei families. Recognizing the public setting, they moved to a private room for a more detailed discussion. Inside the room, Chu Yu questioned Gu Chusheng's renewed interest in a two-decades-old case.
Gu Chusheng reminded her of his own exile six years prior, which stemmed from the Qin case, stating his father had taken the blame to save him, with Chu Yu's father's intercession leading to a lesser sentence. He suspected hidden truths in the Qin case. He recounted that during the Lord of Qin's southern travels, he fell deeply in love with a woman who bore him a son, promising her happiness.
However, upon his return to Huajing, the Lord of Qin was accused of colluding with North Qi. During the subsequent investigation, the woman betrayed Great Sui by taking vital secrets back to North Qi, leading to the fall of three Great Sui cities and leaving many of its people displaced. Gu Chusheng confirmed this woman was Princess Yunyang of North Qi, and her child had returned with her to North Qi.
He concluded that if the Lord of Qin was framed, his own father was likely framed as well, suggesting a larger scheme orchestrated by North Qi, who harbored a relentless desire to conquer Great Sui. He also remarked on the suspicious circumstances surrounding the Wei family's battle at Baidi Valley, believing Chu Yu married into the family to uncover something.
Chu Yu, in turn, pressed him on whether the Chu family's own past troubles were similarly suspicious, recalling her father's help for his father. Gu Chusheng admitted he wouldn't have known these details without his position at the Ministry of Justice, stating "it's not too late" to uncover the truth. Just as their conversation reached this critical point, someone locked the room door from the outside and threw in a sachet of narcotic incense.
Both Gu Chusheng and Chu Yu quickly succumbed to the drug, falling unconscious. Meanwhile, Young Master Sun, the perpetrator, excitedly told Chu Jin that he had drugged Chu Yu and locked her in a room with Gu Chusheng, anticipating Chu Yu's public disgrace. Young Master Sun then loudly announced to the assembled guests that he had discovered something "indescribable" in the back of the mansion and invited them to witness it.
Chu Linyang, having seen Young Master Sun speaking with Chu Jin, suspected foul play involving Chu Yu and attempted to intervene, reminding Young Master Sun that Wei Yun was the focus of the day and a scandal would harm everyone. Young Master Sun, undeterred, implied Chu Linyang was trying to cover something up and proceeded to open the door. To everyone's surprise, only Chu Yu was found inside the room, seemingly resting with closed eyes.
Young Master Sun was utterly bewildered, insisting he had seen two people. Chu Jin quickly distanced herself from him. Chu Yu, feigning grogginess, claimed she had simply come to rest and found the door mysteriously locked, accusing Young Master Sun of slander. Chu Linyang and the Wei family's sister-in-law corroborated her story, and Chu Yu defiantly challenged Young Master Sun to search the room.
Enraged by Young Master Sun's disruptive behavior and the attempted scandal on his succession day, Wei Yun ordered Wei Qiu to arrest him and hand him over to the local government office. Despite Young Master Sun's continued protestations of seeing two people, he was dragged away. Wei Yun then instructed his sister-in-law, Chun'er, to continue hosting the guests while he attended to Chu Yu, who claimed she still felt unwell.
Chu Linyang, meanwhile, sternly confronted Chu Jin about her association with Young Master Sun and her defiance of their father's wishes regarding the banquet, promising to settle the matter at home. A subordinate informed Chu Linyang that no local doctors could be found at such a late hour. Song Qingping (Tuantuan), expressing concern for Chu Yu, volunteered her medical skills. Wei Yun returned to Chu Yu, who chastised him for allowing her to be caught in Young Master Sun's scheme.
Wei Yun retorted that he had removed Gu Chusheng to protect the Wei family's reputation, which now included Chu Yu's. Still feeling the effects of the drug, Chu Yu found it difficult to walk and requested Wei Yun to take her back to her room. Wei Yun, with a wry smile, asked if she preferred to be carried "in arms or on back," to which Chu Yu humorously asked if she could choose neither.
Episode 10 Recap
Wei Yun carried Chu Yu back to her courtyard. Still in his arms, Chu Yu complained that her courtyard seemed far and playfully asked if Wei Yun was intentionally taking a detour. Wei Yun retorted that she was welcome to walk if she wished. Along the way, they encountered Chu Linyang and Miss Song Qingping. Knowing Miss Song's medical expertise, Chu Linyang asked her to treat Chu Yu, who had been affected by a drug.
To avoid suspicion, Chu Linyang falsely claimed that Chu Yu had accidentally used the wrong incense. While Miss Song treated Chu Yu, Chu Linyang and Wei Yun strolled through the Wei Mansion garden. In the garden, Wei Yun questioned Chu Linyang's satisfaction with Chu Yu's marriage and why he had brought Chu Jin to the banquet, knowing her animosity towards Chu Yu. Chu Linyang affirmed his unwavering support for Chu Yu's choices as her elder brother.
He acknowledged his own oversight in the day's events but then questioned Wei Yun's involvement, since the incident occurred within the Wei Mansion. Wei Yun retorted that he was the one who rescued Chu Yu, not Chu Linyang, implying Chu Linyang's actions had inadvertently aided the plot. Meanwhile, after Miss Song treated Chu Yu, Chu Yu immediately felt better and praised Miss Song's focused dedication and excellent medical skills. Miss Song humbly deflected the praise.
She then advised that Chu Yu drink a bowl of milk before bed. Wei Yun offered to arrange for the milk. Chu Linyang thanked Miss Song and offered to escort her back to the Duke of Hu's Mansion, suggesting they speak again another day. Back in Chu Yu’s room, Wanyue brought the milk, explaining Wei Yun had sent it on Miss Song's recommendation.
Chu Yu, however, gave the milk to her dog, Xiaoqi, noting that Wei Yun had almost tricked her into revealing her secrets earlier, and Xiaoqi's distraction had been a great help. Wanyue suggested convincing Wei Yun to help investigate the octagonal crossbow case, believing he might be less hostile after covering for Chu Yu previously.
Chu Yu dismissed the idea, stating that Wei Yun was not foolish enough to hand over the tally, especially since investigating the Arsenal Bureau without imperial authorization was a grave offense. She believed telling him would only make him suspicious. Chu Yu then revealed that Chu Linyang had successfully located the Arsenal Bureau, and now only the tally was missing to gain entry. Chu Linyang escorted Miss Song Qingping back to the Duke of Hu's Mansion.
During their journey, Miss Song noticed several symptoms in Chu Linyang, such as dark circles under his eyes, pale lips, an unsteady gait, and shortness of breath. She accurately diagnosed that his old injuries had healed only superficially and had likely caused deeper internal damage. She offered to treat him, proving her qualifications by her precise diagnosis without even feeling his pulse.
Chu Linyang initially wondered if she was repaying Chu Yu for dealing with the Crown Prince, but Miss Song denied it, stating she found his case challenging and wanted to improve her medical skills. Chu Linyang accepted her offer but reminded her it was late and her father would worry. Miss Song promised to cure him and said she would visit the Chu Mansion in a few days.
Chu Linyang's subordinate questioned why he needed Miss Song when his current physician was almost done. Chu Linyang explained that Miss Song was innocent and charming, like his sisters, and since she had helped Chu Yu, he saw no harm in fulfilling her desire to treat him. At the Duke of Hu's Mansion, the Duke scolded his sons, Song Wen Chang and Song Shilan, for attending the Thanksgiving Banquet at the Wei Mansion despite his warnings.
He reminded them that the Emperor was wary of close ties between military families and that his own plea for Wei Yun had already raised suspicions. Their public visit would only fuel gossip. He also reprimanded Miss Song for being escorted home by Chu Linyang, reminding her of her engagement to the Crown Prince and the potential for damaging rumors.
Miss Song, however, retorted that she did not care for the Crown Prince, felt forced into the marriage, and was tired of his keeping a mistress tarnishing her reputation. She questioned why his misdeeds were easily forgiven while her simple act of treating General Chu Linyang was met with admonishments about propriety, highlighting a double standard. She then stormed off.
Song Wen Chang, supporting his sister, agreed that her happiness was paramount and criticized the Crown Prince's behavior, suggesting that the engagement should be reconsidered. He declared he would be the first to object if Miss Song was forced into the marriage and defiantly stated they couldn't control gossip. The Duke, exasperated, silenced him and checked on their punishment of copying texts. Song Wen Chang confirmed they were done and had learned their lesson.
Meanwhile, Chu Linyang confronted Chu Jin in the ancestral hall, where she had been kneeling all night as punishment. Xie Yun, their mother, pleaded for Chu Jin, expressing concern and accusing Chu Linyang of being too harsh. Chu Linyang countered, asking if Xie Yun's indulgence wasn't partly to blame for Chu Jin's reckless nature. Chu Jin tearfully begged to be released, but Chu Linyang dismissed her apology as insincere.
He stated that her actions—standing by and even encouraging the plot to defame Chu Yu—were far more serious than a night of kneeling suggested. He declared that even if Chu Yu could forgive, he could not. After having a subordinate escort Xie Yun away, Chu Linyang pressed Chu Jin, who finally confessed her deep-seated envy and desire for his approval and affection, similar to what he showed Chu Yu.
She admitted to deliberately provoking Chu Yu just to gain his attention, wishing to be treated as an adult rather than a troublesome child. Chu Linyang admitted his bias, explaining it stemmed from spending more time with Chu Yu in the Northwest, allowing him to understand her better. He promised to try to be better towards Chu Jin.
He then sternly reminded her of the potential consequences of her actions, emphasizing that if Chu Yu’s reputation had been ruined, it would have affected their entire family. He questioned how malicious she must appear in the eyes of outsiders like Young Master Sun. Outside, Xie Yun explained that during the family's difficult times, with Chu Linyang, Chu Yu, and their father away, only Chu Jin had stayed by her side, comforting her and helping save money.
She believed Chu Jin was not inherently bad. Chu Linyang agreed, emphasizing that Chu Jin needed to learn right from wrong to prevent her from straying further. He acknowledged their mutual biases, pledging to be kinder to Chu Jin and asking Xie Yun to extend more understanding and compassion to Chu Yu, especially considering the suffering Chu Yu had endured. He challenged Xie Yun to recall if she had ever shed a single tear for Chu Yu's grievances.
After the Thanksgiving Banquet, several wives from the Wei family were preparing to leave. Wei Yun personally brought out the spears of his deceased brothers, fulfilling their request from the previous day. As Jiang Chun, Yao Jue, and Xie Jiu prepared to depart, relatives exchanged farewells, promising to return for their children once they were more financially stable. Wei Yun explained the significance of returning the spears, stating it was "returning things to their rightful owners."
Xie Jiu played a heartfelt "Breaking the Formation" song on her zither, a tune her late husband had cherished. This moved Wei Yun, reminding him of his brothers and how he fought for his family's happiness, yet now felt he had failed to protect them. Inspired, Jiang Chun and Yao Jue picked up their spears, engaging in a display of martial arts.
Yao Jue reflected on her mother's desire for her to be graceful, but her true passion was martial arts. She observed that in the Wei family, no one needed protection anymore. Wei Yun offered her a flower to cheer her up. Amidst these departures, Madame Liu, Wang Lan, made a dramatic decision, tearing up her divorce paper and declaring her intention to stay at the Wei Mansion to guard Wei Rong.
A conversation turned to the diverse and difficult choices women face regarding freedom, children, and societal expectations, concluding that the Wei family had offered them all a precious second chance. As night fell, Wanyue distracted Wei Qiu by playfully asking him to examine her face for an imaginary mosquito bite. Meanwhile, Chu Yu covertly entered Wei Yun's courtyard. Wei Yun soon discovered her presence and questioned her.
Chu Yu feigned a search for Xiaoqi, claiming the dog had run into his room and asking for his help to retrieve it. Wei Yun humored her, searching for the dog, while Chu Yu used the distraction to locate and retrieve the tally from his desk. After "finding" Xiaoqi, Chu Yu hurried Wei Yun to take the dog out. Once alone, Wei Yun realized Chu Yu's true objective was the tally and silently resolved to deal with her decisively.
At the Arsenal Bureau, Lu Qiba welcomed Wei Yun, fulfilling his promise to invite him once he became the Marquis of Zhenguo. Lu Qiba offered tea, explaining that Wei Yun’s elder brother had forbidden alcohol during duty. Wei Yun cut straight to the point, asking if Lu Qiba had invited him for tea to apologize for the Fragrance House incident. Lu Qiba found Wei Yun’s sharp wit annoying, advising him to be more easygoing.
Wei Yun insisted it was time for serious business. Lu Qiba then presented Wei Yun with a crossbow mechanism. He revealed that while it wasn’t manufactured by the Arsenal Bureau, it was undoubtedly made using their blueprints, indicating a leak. He explained that this particular design was flawed, a "defective product" that harmed both target and user, with one crossbowman severely injured for every ten shots.
Lu Qiba recounted how the Northern Qi army had used this weapon, resulting in the death of General Chu Jianchang, the injury of Chu Linyang, and its deployment in the Battle of Baidi Valley, showing Northern Qi's disregard for its harmful nature. Lu Qiba confirmed the presence of a mole within the Arsenal Bureau, stating he had made some progress in the investigation and proposed that he and Wei Yun cooperate. Just then, a soldier delivered a report, causing Lu Qiba to immediately stand up in anger, demanding to know why Wei Yun had given his tally to someone else.
