Glory Episode 10 Recap
> Glory Recaps
Following the chaos of the tea ceremony, Rong Shanbao addresses Lu Jianglai’s questions regarding the legendary "Tea Bone." She explains that while the Rong ancestors brought tea to Linji, the "Tea Bone" is simply a title for those with exceptional talent, which must still be honed through tireless study. Shanbao reveals she was fully aware of Song Yunxi’s scheme to use their brother, Rong Shanchang, as a pawn, but she turned the tables to draw her enemies into the open.
Lu Jianglai, far from being upset at being used as bait, expresses his gratitude that she trusted him with her safety, noting that he is more than willing to be a useful talent for her to rely on. In recognition of his loyalty, Shanbao offers Lu Jianglai a generous reward of gold ingots and property deeds. However, Lu remains indifferent to the wealth. He hints that material things are not what he desires to stay by her side.
Sensing his feelings, a flustered Shanbao orders him to leave. Though Lu initially fears he is being expelled, Shanbao’s command to "await her orders" gives him hope that he will continue to serve her. The formal tea ceremony resumes, and the Old Madam announces it is time to select a husband for Shanbao. Among the suitors are the scholarly Bai Yingsheng, the gentle Cousin Wen, and Lu Jianglai.
Shanbao approaches Lu Jianglai with a jade pendant, her gaze softening with affection. However, Yang Dingchen intervenes, subtly revealing a jade bracelet on his wrist—a clear sign of blackmail. Trembling under his whispered warning, Shanbao hesitates before placing the pendant into Yang Dingchen’s hands, much to the shock of the Old Madam and Lu Jianglai. In the aftermath, other unions are settled. He Xingming offers a secret tea recipe as a betrothal gift to marry the Fifth Lady, Song Yunshu.
Knowing that Yunshu has been blind since childhood and bullied by her sisters, the Old Madam grants the request after seeing the girl’s consent. Meanwhile, the rejected suitors deal with their disappointment. Lu Jianglai advises Bai Yingsheng that a recommendation letter from the Old Madam is worth more than years of study, convincing the scholar to stay. Cousin Wen confronts Shanbao, but she tells him plainly that his soft nature is ill-suited for the harsh realities of the Rong family.
To show his continued devotion, Lu Jianglai leads servants to clear a neglected patch of land in Shanbao’s courtyard, planting tea trees where she had previously failed. He explains his insight into her "scent-borrowing" methods, using surrounding aromas like magnolia, pine, and osmanthus to flavor the leaves. Shanbao is impressed by his perceptiveness. Lu Jianglai respectfully states that he trusts her choice of a husband, though he remains ready to help whenever she faces a challenge.
Later, the Old Madam sends the tea expert Yan Bailou to assist Shanbao with a low-yield plantation. Feeling jealous, Lu Jianglai accompanies them. While working on the mountain, Lu "accidently" fakes a foot injury, claiming he may have broken a bone. This forces Shanbao to stay and tend to him, while Yan Bailou is asked to return to the mansion first.
Yan Bailou’s carriage soon breaks down, and though Song Yunxi passes by and offers him a ride, he coldly refuses to avoid any impropriety. Song Yunxi mocks his unrequited devotion to Shanbao. Back at the residence, the Old Madam summons Shanbao to express her deep disappointment, comparing Yan Bailou to precious jade and Yang Dingchen to a common stone. Shanbao remains firm in her choice, unable to reveal Yang Dingchen’s blackmail. The Old Madam sighs, warning her that a wrong step now could lead to internal strife that will tear the family apart.
