In a Class of Her Own Recap, Plot, Synopsis
In a Class of Her Own Synopsis
Xue Wenxi, from a poor family, makes a living as a copyist, but by chance she met Feng Chengjun, the son of the governor in Yun Kingdom.
Feng Chengjun appreciated her talent and secretly set a trap to make Xue Wenxi pass the exam and enter the Yun Shang Academy, which is only for men.
With the help of Feng Chengjun, Xue Wenxi was able to hide her identity study quietly. Her wise, kind, tenacious and optimistic personality made Yu Lexuan regain his dignity and the unruly Lei Zexin rekindle his hope.
For of them formed the group “Yun Shang Si Jie” and grow together in the process of overcoming various difficulties.
After Xue Wenxi revealed her identity as a girl, she and Feng Chengjun fell in love with each other, and the feud between the previous generation was involved.
In order to inherit the legacy of their ancestors and realize their ideals, the four of them were caught in the midst of crises.
In a Class of Her Own Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Yunzhou, in the southern part of Yun, is home to the prestigious Yun Shang Academy, an institution renowned for its flourishing literary arts and strong academic atmosphere. It is the most coveted destination for scholars seeking to become officials. As this year's entrance exam applications open, Feng Chengjun, the son of Yunzhou's Governor Feng Jichang, arrives to register. At a bustling market, he has an unexpected encounter with Xue Wenxi, a young woman disguised as a man.
Feng Chengjun is impressed by the graceful "young man." Xue Wenxi is the author of the popular local novel, "Where Love Begins." During a collision with Feng Chengjun's attendant, the newly finished manuscript in her bag is mistakenly swapped into Feng Chengjun's box. When Wenxi discovers her manuscript is missing, she remains calm and, relying on her exceptional memory, rewrites the entire second volume on the spot for Mr. Chao, the proprietor of Mu Lai Bookstore.
Delighted, Mr. Chao pays her and laments that "Mr. Wen" is not taking the Yun Shang Academy exam. Meanwhile, Feng Chengjun, now in possession of Wenxi's novel, discusses the story's alluring nature with his attendant. The attendant also points out Wenxi's exceptional skill in imitating Governor Feng's handwriting, regretting that such talent is wasted on counterfeiting due to her family’s plight.
Upon returning home, Wenxi finds her younger brother, Wen Bin, unwell and learns that her mother has accepted a betrothal gift on her behalf. Wenxi's father passed away early, leaving the family impoverished. To support her mother and ailing brother, Wenxi disguises herself as a man to make a living by writing and copying. She resolutely refuses the marriage, but her mother has already spent the betrothal money.
Soon after, debt collectors storm Wenxi’s home, revealing her mother borrowed a high-interest loan of 500 units for Wen Bin's medicine. The creditor, taken by Wenxi's appearance, offers to forgive the debt if she comes with him. Wenxi refuses, promising to repay the full amount in seven days. The creditor takes Wen Bin as a hostage until the debt is settled.
Desperate, Wenxi abandons her principles and agrees to a high-paying "assistant" job Mr. Chao had previously offered: verbally providing answers to a candidate during the Yun Shang preliminary exam. Wenxi accompanies Mr. Chao to the academy to meet her employers, a group of influential young men led by President Han, head of the Student Council. Skeptical of her youth, they challenge her.
Wenxi proves her profound knowledge by flawlessly completing a literary excerpt from just two given words, silencing their doubts. President Han acknowledges her talent but sternly warns her of the severe consequences if caught, making it clear she will only receive payment, not protection. As Wenxi tries to leave the academy, she is spotted by guards. In her haste to escape, she collides with Feng Chengjun. His attendant reacts aggressively, but Feng Chengjun calmly asks if she is alright.
Wenxi creates a diversion with smoke and vanishes. Later, in a forest, she is accosted by thugs who try to rob her. However, the unruly but highly skilled Lei Zexin intervenes, easily dispatching the robbers and saving her. The preliminary exam commences. Per academy rules, each candidate can bring one male aide. Following instructions, Wenxi enters the exam hall but, due to a mix-up with the seating chart, mistakenly sits beside Feng Chengjun.
When the exam topic, "Application of Knowledge," is revealed, Wenxi begins discreetly feeding answers to him. Feng Chengjun, however, doesn't write. He critiques her answers as well-crafted but lacking personal perspective and asks for her own understanding. Posing as Wen Bin, she gives a superficial response: for her, it means helping him pass to get paid. Disappointed, Feng Chengjun calls her shallow-minded. Realizing her mistake, Wenxi tries to leave, but he stops her.
She tearfully pleads with him, explaining her family's poverty, her brother's illness, and the pressure from creditors, swearing it is her first time cheating. Unmoved, Feng Chengjun stands and publicly denounces the pervasive cheating, criticizing the students, the hired hands, and the invigilators for turning a blind eye. The invigilator is initially outraged but becomes deferential upon learning Feng Chengjun is the governor's son. He immediately orders all aides expelled from the hall.
Later, a frustrated Mr. Chao rebukes Wenxi for ruining his arrangement with President Han and jeopardizing all future business. Meanwhile, President Han is berated by his father for the scheme's failure and for his own lack of ruthlessness. President Han defends his belief in fairness, stating that anyone with talent and a desire to serve the country should be supported, referencing the ideals of Xue Ding Kun from eighteen years ago. His father furiously silences him, calling Xue Ding Kun's ideas traitorous. Still desperate, Wenxi makes a final appeal to Mr. Chao for help, but he, fearing repercussions, turns her away.
Episode 2 Recap
Feng Chengjun sought out Mr. Chao to inquire about the character of the writer known as Wen Bin. Mr. Chao explained that he only knew this individual as Wen Bin, a person desperately in need of money. Despite this, Wen Bin had always adhered to strict principles, never engaging in deceitful acts. The only exception was the recent exam impersonation, which Mr. Chao believed must have been due to some grave difficulty.
Leaving Mr. Chao's shop with a complicated mix of emotions, Feng Chengjun soon encountered Yu Lexuan, who immediately sensed Feng Chengjun was looking for the person who had "tricked" him at the exam. Yu Lexuan, claiming his motive was care for a future classmate, told Feng Chengjun that he would find the person at San Shen Temple that evening at 7:15 p. m. , earning money for a dangerous task.
Despite Yu Lexuan's veiled warnings about the risks involved for someone of Feng Chengjun's noble status, Feng Chengjun remained resolute in his decision to go. That night, Feng Chengjun arrived at San Shen Temple. Wen Bin, dressed in male attire, was already there to deliver a banned book she had been paid 200 qian by Yu Lexuan to write.
She was startled to see Feng Chengjun, who tried to initiate a conversation, but Wen Bin, feeling deeply inconvenienced by him, had no desire to speak. Before they could talk, a squad of the Imperial Brigade suddenly appeared, announcing their intent to apprehend those trading banned books. Realizing they had been set up by Yu Lexuan, Feng Chengjun and Wen Bin immediately fled, narrowly escaping into a cramped mountain cave.
As they pressed close together to avoid detection, the proximity to Feng Chengjun caused Wen Bin to blush. Once the Imperial Brigade had passed, Feng Chengjun finally revealed his true purpose. He acknowledged Wen Bin's exceptional talent and expressed his belief that her involvement in cheating was born of hidden difficulties. Feng Chengjun urged Wen Bin to participate legitimately in Yun Shang Academy's second exam, emphasizing that she should rely on her own efforts to achieve success.
Wen Bin, harboring the secret of her true female identity, was internally troubled but politely thanked Feng Chengjun for his kindness before departing. She knew her family was struggling, with her mother unwell and her younger brother, Wen Bin, needing medical treatment, which was the true source of her constant debt. Upon his return to Yun Shang Academy, Feng Chengjun was immediately confronted by a group of hostile scholars led by the Student President, Han Shengzhi.
They openly expressed their disdain for his prominence and their anger over his actions that exposed their cheating. Feng Chengjun, however, remained unfazed. He stated his unwavering commitment to fairness and justice, declaring that as a scholar, he must set an example and rectify the decadent atmosphere of the exam hall. Han Shengzhi acknowledged Feng Chengjun's courage but reminded him that Yun Shang Academy had its own strict rules.
Feng Chengjun countered that the academy was also not a place for deception. To ensure Wen Bin would take the exam, Feng Chengjun secretly arranged for Mr. Chao to make her an offer. Wen Bin, meanwhile, was desperately seeking a job that could earn her 800 qian quickly. Mr. Chao approached her with an offer for a "riskier" job: impersonating a candidate in the upcoming second exam, not merely assisting.
He assured her that despite rumors of strict new rules, the employer, who offered a substantial 1000 qian, guaranteed her safety and payment regardless of the outcome. Given her dire financial situation, Wen Bin reluctantly agreed. Soon after, the second exam at Yun Shang Academy commenced with strict disciplinary measures announced. Feng Chengjun, scanning the assembly, spotted Wen Bin.
Approaching Principal Feng and Grand Secretary Ding, he presented his only recommendation letter, vouching for a scholar named Wen Bin, praising his exceptional talent and compassion for the common people despite his impoverished background. Feng Chengjun earnestly requested that Wen Bin be given an opportunity to serve the country. Impressed by Feng Chengjun's strong endorsement and acknowledging past precedents, Grand Secretary Ding approved Wen Bin to be admitted directly into the second exam.
During the exam, Wen Bin initially showed little interest, leaving her paper blank. Feng Chengjun discreetly urged her to write, warning that a blank submission would be considered contempt for the law, just like cheating. He reminded her of his high praise to Principal Feng, implying that a poor performance would also be seen as contempt. Annoyed, Wen Bin questioned Feng Chengjun's true intentions, but he insisted he was helping her.
She then raised her hand to ask the invigilator about the penalty for skipping the third exam if she passed the second. Upon learning there would be no punishment for absence, Wen Bin felt relieved and quickly completed and submitted her paper. Unbeknownst to her, it was announced that Master Wang himself would inspect the second exam papers to determine who would advance. Later, Wen Bin was summoned to Ming Lun Hall.
Feeling unqualified and only wanting to leave, she was called before Master Wang's representative, who declared that while her essay was not exceptional, she was fortunate and had been granted entrance to Yun Shang Academy as the last-ranked candidate from the second exam. Wen Bin, trying to escape the situation, feigned guilt for her low ranking, which Master Wang, who was present, found amusing. Afterward, Wen Bin angrily accused Feng Chengjun of tricking her.
Yu Lexuan, however, revealed that as a scholar of Yun Shang Academy, her value as a writer would increase tenfold, and she would receive a monthly allowance of 300 qian. This news astonished Wen Bin, who realized the income would be enough to pay for her brother Wen Bin’s medical treatment, though she remained worried about her female identity being discovered. Thus, Xue Wenxi, disguised as Wen Bin, entered Yun Shang Academy.
Navigating a male-only environment, she was constantly on edge. She was assigned to Room Two in the regular dormitory, sharing it with Lei Ao, a senior scholar known for his martial prowess but infamous for his academic struggles and infrequent presence at the academy. Relieved at the prospect of mostly living alone, Wen Bin eagerly began to clean the room. To her dismay, Feng Chengjun was also assigned to Room Two.
He had refused a superior room prepared for him, challenging the notion of privilege based on noble status. As a result, he was placed in the only available regular dorm room—which happened to be Lei Ao’s, making him Wen Bin’s unexpected roommate.
Episode 3 Recap
Following up on the previous episode, Wen Bin was shocked to find Feng Chengjun in her assigned room. She had assumed the noble Feng Chengjun would reside in a superior room, not a common one meant for three scholars. Torn between laughter and frustration, Wen Bin tried various tactics to make him leave, claiming the room was inferior and that she snored and sleepwalked.
She even warned him about another intimidating scholar, Lei Ao, who was rumored to be their third roommate. However, Feng Chengjun remained resolute, seeing no issue with the room and viewing any potential challenges, whether Wen Bin's "bad habits" or the fearsome Lei Ao, as opportunities for growth. Wen Bin eventually gave up. Later, during the communal bath, a deeply uncomfortable Wen Bin, surrounded by shirtless men, quickly made an escape.
That evening, the Yun Shang Academy's admission ceremony began, which was effectively an occasion for the senior scholars to receive gifts from the new students. Wen Bin, from a humble background, could only offer homemade snacks from her mother. The seniors scoffed at the simple gift, tossing it to the ground and calling it "food for pigs." Enraged, Wen Bin confronted them, accusing them of disrespecting the poor and wasting food, demanding an apology.
As a senior scholar moved to strike her, Feng Chengjun intervened. He picked up the discarded snack, took a bite, and insisted the seniors do the same as a sign of respect. As tensions rose, Yu Lexuan stepped in, also tasting the snack and skillfully diffusing the situation, allowing the ceremony to continue. The next part of the ceremony required each new scholar to complete a secret mission by dawn.
The one who performed best would be granted any request by the Student Council, while failure meant stripping and jumping into the lotus pond. Feng Chengjun's mission was to infiltrate the Han Manor and retrieve "three unique flowers" from the Yun Duan Pavilion. Wen Bin's task was to persuade Mu Xiao Man, the famous courtesan of Cai Yun House, to give a free performance at the academy.
Yu Lexuan noted that even seemingly simple tasks, like fetching water or a pig's head, were designed to be difficult. Wen Bin worried about her challenging mission, but when Feng Chengjun offered to pay Mu Xiao Man, she refused, insisting that the mission required a genuine "free performance." Unbeknownst to Feng Chengjun, the senior scholars had deliberately assigned him the difficult task and set a trap.
They planned to light a pile of firewood as soon as he entered the Han Manor, luring the guards to catch him. They watched as a figure in black scaled the wall and ignited the fire, but it was not Feng Chengjun. The real Feng Chengjun had been spotted by Han Shumin, the young lady of the manor, who, smitten by his appearance, helped him hide from the commotion. Han Shumin led Feng Chengjun into the Yun Duan Pavilion.
When he realized it was her private quarters, he immediately apologized and tried to leave. Han Shumin, revealing she was the sister of a senior scholar at the academy, showed him the "three unique flowers" he sought—a painting of three flowers. Although his mission was within reach, Feng Chengjun chose to abandon it. He explained that taking the painting would reveal he had entered her room, damaging her reputation.
He would rather face punishment than compromise her honor, an act of integrity that made Han Shumin admire him even more. Meanwhile, Wen Bin found Mu Xiao Man being harassed by a drunken patron. Wen Bin bravely stepped in to protect her. Deeply grateful, Mu Xiao Man readily agreed to perform for free at the academy, and Wen Bin was overjoyed.
Elsewhere, the black-clad figure who had infiltrated the Han Manor was not a thief but a protestor, firing arrows with leaflets attached. The leaflets condemned the unfair education system, which limited access for commoners, banned women entirely, and gave preferential treatment to nobles. The disturbance alerted the Imperial Brigade, who began a city-wide search. On her way back, Wen Bin encountered the fleeing figure. After reading one of the leaflets, she found herself in complete agreement with the message.
When the Imperial Brigade questioned her, she misdirected them, allowing the protestor to escape. Back at the academy, Wen Bin presented a fan from Mu Xiao Man as proof of her success. Impressed that she had persuaded the notoriously aloof courtesan, the other students declared her mission the best executed, entitling her to the special privilege. The senior scholars reluctantly agreed but were eager to punish Feng Chengjun for his failure.
They ordered him to strip and jump into the lotus pond, a place they noted was used by servants to wash chamber pots. As Feng Chengjun began to undress without protest, Wen Bin could not bear to see him humiliated. She immediately used her new privilege to exempt him from the punishment. Deeply grateful, Feng Chengjun promised to grant her one wish in return. Amused, Wen Bin declared she would be his creditor for life.
Episode 4 Recap
That night, Xue Wenxi and Feng Chengjun prepared to settle into their shared room. Feng Chengjun complained about the smell of his blanket and moved his pillow closer to Xue Wenxi's. Suddenly, the room's original occupant returned: Lei Zexin, the same mysterious figure who had been distributing leaflets. Upon discovering he had new roommates, Lei Zexin erupted in anger.
While he tolerated Xue Wenxi, who had previously helped him, he was intensely hostile towards the privileged Feng Chengjun, insisting he leave. Unwilling to be alone with Lei Zexin, Xue Wenxi reluctantly followed Feng Chengjun out of the room. Outside, Yu Lexuan and other students were enjoying the spectacle, having placed bets on whether Feng Chengjun and Xue Wenxi could return to their room within three days.
Seeing the two had nowhere to sleep, Yu Lexuan invited Xue Wenxi to stay with him. To his dismay, Xue Wenxi cheerfully pulled Feng Chengjun along. Later that night, as Xue Wenxi slept soundly, Yu Lexuan found himself unable to sleep, pondering why Mu Xiao Man, who held no regard for Han Shengzhi, seemed to listen to Xue Wenxi, a poor scholar with no family background.
Overcome by curiosity, he crept closer to observe the sleeping Xue Wenxi, only to stumble and land on top of both her and Feng Chengjun, leading to an awkward moment. The next morning, Feng Chengjun intended to report Lei Zexin's behavior to the academy's authorities. However, other students quickly intervened, warning him against it.
They explained that Lei Zexin was infamous for tormenting students who reported him and that he was protected by his connections: his close friendship with Yu Lexuan and the fact that his father was a subordinate of the student president's father. Feng Chengjun dismissed their concerns as complicity. Later, during a communal foot-washing, Xue Wenxi was forced to reluctantly remove her shoes and socks.
Her unusually smooth, hairless feet drew comments from her peers, who speculated that her apparent frailty was due to malnutrition. Meanwhile, Lei Zexin was admonished by his former master, who expressed disappointment in his current state and reminded him of the hopes of his father and his deceased mother and brother. The Yun Shang Academy officially began its classes. Principal Feng Yanwu welcomed the new students, outlining the stringent scoring system.
The Four Books, Five Classics, and the State Code of Yun were compulsory majors. Students also had to select one additional major from electives like etiquette, music, or mathematics, plus three minor electives. Each major required one hundred passing grades and each elective ten to qualify for the imperial exam. Failure to qualify within four years would result in expulsion. Xue Wenxi, with her poor academic foundation, expressed her concerns to Feng Chengjun, who encouraged her to believe in herself.
Soon after, new student martial arts training commenced under the strict instructor Liu Qianyi, whose motto was "there's no impossible, only laziness." He subjected everyone to grueling physical exercises, which were agonizing for Xue Wenxi. She was also haunted by a deep fear of her identity being exposed, envisioning herself being executed for deceiving the Emperor. Meanwhile, officials in the Yunzhou government office discussed the unsettling reappearance of the "Book of 10 Thousand Words," which they had spent years suppressing.
Lord Han worried it was part of a larger scheme, while Lord Feng questioned if Han had intentionally preserved a copy. Concurrently, Lei Zexin stood before his late brother's spirit tablet, vowing to clear his name. Yu Lexuan later found Lei Zexin drinking and reminded him he had only one year left to graduate before losing any chance of becoming an official. Lei Zexin declared his indifference to officialdom, stating his sole focus was to clear his brother's name.
He showed Yu Lexuan a book, revealing it had been authored eighteen years prior by a Mr. Xue Dingkun, his brother, and other scholars, who were all executed shortly after its publication. Lei Zexin was convinced their deaths were connected to the book. The next day, during an abacus lesson, Xue Wenxi demonstrated an extraordinary aptitude for mental arithmetic, swiftly calculating answers from a ledger without an abacus, joking that her mind worked quickly when money was involved.
The instructor, recognizing her talent, urged her to major in the subject, but she politely declined, expressing a stronger interest in medicine. In the subsequent medicine class, students learned about an acupuncture point for throat ailments. Later, in art class, Xue Wenxi struggled immensely with drawing, admitting she had never learned before.
Episode 5 Recap
Yu Lexuan approached Wen Bin, presenting her with a list of students and their academic reports from Pufang Dorm. He explained that all the new students had unanimously elected her as their Pufang Dorm Steward, attributing this decision to her impressive performance during the admission ceremony and her excellent completion of a secret mission. Wen Bin, surprised by the nomination, initially expressed a desire to be merely a nominal deputy, not wishing to manage such affairs.
When she inquired about the previous steward, Yu Lexuan revealed it was he himself. Wen Bin then promptly requested Yu Lexuan to serve as her deputy and assist her with the responsibilities, to which he enthusiastically agreed, vowing to help her in any way possible. Later that evening, Feng Chengjun sought out Wen Bin, reassuring her not to fret over what had transpired during the day's painting class.
He then expressed curiosity, asking how her calligraphy could be so exceptional while her painting skills were entirely nonexistent. Wen Bin sighed, explaining that her father had passed away early, leaving her mother to raise her and her sister amidst great hardship. For a few years, she was able to attend a private school on her father's remaining savings.
However, when her sister fell seriously ill, their savings were depleted, forcing her to learn only writing and forgo any lessons in painting. Feng Chengjun listened with deep sympathy, remarking on the difficulty of her life and acknowledging that many others in their kingdom faced similar struggles. He stressed the importance of their diligent study, aiming to discover effective strategies to improve the lives of such people once they secured official positions.
Wen Bin, reflecting on her own limited choices, admitted her envy for his freedom to pursue his aspirations, stating that she could only ever become an official if women were also permitted to attend school. Feng Chengjun then recounted a tale from eighteen years prior, of a teacher who nearly succeeded in implementing a plan to allow girls into schools, though his identity had long since faded from memory.
As Feng Chengjun and Wen Bin returned to their dorm room, they found Lei Zexin, who had been absent for several days, already there. Lei Zexin immediately confronted Feng Chengjun, telling him to get out and claiming the room belonged to him and Wen Bin. He then probed Wen Bin about her background before warning her to steer clear of Feng Chengjun, declaring them to be from different worlds.
Just then, Han Shengzhi appeared, questioning Wen Bin about Ms. Mu's agreement to perform. Lei Zexin quickly intervened, warning Wen Bin to stay away from Ms. Mu and menacingly implying that Yun Shang Academy could either be her heaven or her hell. When Lei Zexin confronted Han Shengzhi for intruding, a tense standoff ensued. Yu Lexuan swiftly intervened, reminding them of the severe penalties for fighting.
Lei Zexin initially refused to allow Feng Chengjun to stay, but Yu Lexuan pragmatically pointed out that expelling fellow students would result in a substantial deduction of their nobility marks. Reluctantly, Lei Zexin conceded. Inside, the arguments continued. After ordering the lights out by humorously claiming to be afraid of the dark, Lei Zexin initially offered one blanket for his two roommates, only to snatch it back, refusing to let Feng Chengjun use his bedding.
Both Lei Zexin and Feng Chengjun vied for Wen Bin's allegiance, with Lei Zexin insisting she call him "Senior" and Feng Chengjun suggesting "Brother Feng." Lei Zexin then insisted Wen Bin sleep in the middle between them. Wen Bin found herself caught between the two constantly bickering roommates, sighing internally about the miserable days ahead. Overwhelmed by the incessant squabbling, Wen Bin sought out Yu Lexuan for advice on how to make Lei Zexin and Feng Chengjun get along.
Yu Lexuan revealed Lei Zexin's greatest weakness: his insatiable love for the "Liquid Gold Wine" from Mingren Tavern. However, he explained that Lei Zexin was blacklisted from the tavern due to a mountain of unpaid debts. Yu Lexuan assured Wen Bin that if she could acquire the wine for Lei Zexin, it would surely bring him under her control. Realizing she had no money for the wine, Wen Bin was worried, but Yu Lexuan had a proposal.
He noted Wen Bin's talent as the author of the popular storybook, "Where Love Begins," and pointed out that she was missing out on significant profits. He offered to manage the sales of her future works, giving her money upfront as a deposit for their collaboration and agreeing to a 70/30 split of the profits. Wen Bin eagerly accepted and, taking the money, hurried to Mingren Tavern. There, the innkeeper informed her that the "Liquid Gold Wine" was sold out.
Thinking quickly, Wen Bin fabricated a story about her elder brother's critical illness and his dying wish for a final taste of the wine. Moved by her tale, the compassionate innkeeper sold her a reserved bottle. Unbeknownst to Wen Bin, Han Shengzhi observed the entire transaction. Back at the dorm, Wen Bin presented the "Liquid Gold Wine" to Lei Zexin, who was visibly tempted.
Wen Bin playfully threatened to drink it all herself, prompting Lei Zexin to bet she couldn't manage more than two sips. Wen Bin then proposed a challenge: if she could drink three sips, he would have to stop antagonizing Feng Chengjun. Lei Zexin accepted. Wen Bin bravely took three sips, then admitted she had never consumed alcohol before, explaining that her mother had always forbidden it, saying "a child shouldn't drink."
Keeping his word, Lei Zexin promised to cease his animosity towards Feng Chengjun. Wen Bin, feeling the effects of the wine, praised Lei Zexin, calling him a very kind person despite his fierce exterior, and wistfully wished she had a brother like him. Shortly after, Wen Bin felt nauseous and vomited in the courtyard. At that moment, Han Shengzhi appeared, accusing Wen Bin of drinking in the dormitory.
Lei Zexin attempted to shield Wen Bin, while Feng Chengjun stepped in, telling Han Shengzhi to show respect. Han Shengzhi insisted that Wen Bin had violated academy rules by bringing alcohol into the dorm. Feng Chengjun swiftly countered that the rules only prohibited bringing wine "in", not returning "drunk". Han Shengzhi then shifted his accusation, suggesting Wen Bin had snuck out to drink, and declared his intent to search their dorm room.
Both Feng Chengjun and Lei Zexin stood their ground, preventing the search. Overwhelmed and weary, Wen Bin eventually conceded, allowing Han Shengzhi to record her name for the Review and Punishment Board. After Han Shengzhi departed, Lei Zexin expressed concern. A still-tipsy Wen Bin, grabbing both Feng Chengjun's and Lei Zexin's hands, joyfully declared them all friends from that moment on. Lei Zexin, despite his earlier resistance, begrudgingly went to fetch water for the still-unwell Wen Bin.
Episode 6 Recap
After a long sleep, Xue Wenxi finally woke up. Lei Zexin remarked she was fortunate to have consumed a premium wine, or she would have suffered a splitting headache. He then advised her against associating with Feng Chengjun, arguing it would not be beneficial. Xue Wenxi defended Feng Chengjun, asserting that despite his privileged background, he was a kind person who cared for and helped her.
She insisted that not every high-born scholar was bad and urged Lei Zexin to try and understand them. Lei Zexin sarcastically suggested that if Xue Wenxi were a girl, she would be desperate to marry Feng Chengjun, pointing out their differing social statuses and calling Feng Chengjun a hypocrite.
Xue Wenxi retorted that Lei Zexin himself bullied the weak and that true strength lay in striving to surpass others academically, compelling those who looked down on him to recognize his superiority. The next morning, Yu Lexuan informed Xue Wenxi that Han Shengzhi had reported her drunken incident to the Review and Punishment Board.
He warned her about Mr. Li Hu, the formidable head of the board, known as the "powerful tiger" who could make offenders "cry and scream in pain." Despite her apprehension, Xue Wenxi attended Mr. Li Hu’s class and found that while he presented a smiling facade, he was indeed strict. He introduced a system of "nobility marks," explaining that inappropriate behavior would result in deductions.
Each lost mark would cost ten coins from their monthly allowance, as the academy would not support those of ill conduct, and severe misconduct could lead to expulsion. Mr. Li Hu then singled out Xue Wenxi, revealing he knew of her "glorious deeds" of drunken chaos.
He informed her that she had already lost ten nobility marks—a deduction of one hundred coins—before the semester had even officially begun, warning that a negative nobility score would disqualify anyone from becoming an official, regardless of their academic excellence. Meanwhile, Lei Zexin, absent from class, visited the dilapidated former residence of Xue Dingkun. After inquiring with local villagers, he located the tombstone and noticed fresh paper ashes, indicating a recent visitor.
As Lei Zexin prepared to leave, a figure in black silently handed him a note bearing the names "Qin Beichuan, Ke Shijun." Back at the academy, Xue Wenxi was downcast over the loss of one hundred coins. Noticing her distress, Feng Chengjun kindly offered to lend her money if she needed it.
The following day was the Teacher Respecting Ceremony, for which new students had to prepare "six presents" for their teachers: celery, lotus seeds, red beans, red dates, dried longans, and lean pork. A senior explained the symbolism of each gift, representing diligence, the teacher's painstaking efforts, good fortune, early success, completeness, and the students' heartfelt appreciation. While shopping for the gifts, the students encountered Mu Xiaoman, who invited Xue Wenxi to Caiyun House.
Xue Wenxi confessed her recent drunken incident and poor alcohol tolerance. In response, Mu Xiaoman revealed she had a special potion that allowed one to drink vast amounts of wine without getting drunk. She explained she had sought it out to avoid being taken advantage of by nobles at social functions and offered some to Xue Wenxi. At Caiyun House, an auction was underway for a painting by Master Ren Bishu. Feng Chengjun, an art enthusiast, joined the bidding.
Han Shumin, also present, deliberately had her servant push her into Feng Chengjun's path. After feigning an accident, she struck up a conversation about the artist and successfully outbid Feng Chengjun for the painting. She then subtly inquired if he had a lover. Oblivious to her intentions, Feng Chengjun replied that he was not yet married and had no one in his heart, leaving Han Shumin pleased to know he was available.
After the ceremony, Xue Wenxi visited her mother, who expressed deep concern that her female identity would be discovered at the academy, putting her in grave danger. Later, in music class, the teacher asked Xue Wenxi to play the flute. Having no experience, she produced a horribly discordant sound. To cover for her, Lei Zexin began playing an equally terrible tune, drawing the teacher's ire.
When reprimanded, the frustrated Lei Zexin lashed out, kicking a fellow student and nearly confronting the teacher before storming off, declaring he never wanted to be at the academy anyway. He later went to the library to compare the handwriting on the note with the teachers' manuscripts, but he learned that the new classics teacher had not yet submitted his. Lei Zexin then pondered that this new teacher would also lack the "command plate," hinting at a deeper conspiracy.
Episode 7 Recap
During a painting class, Wen Bin struggled with the assignment to paint a roommate’s portrait, admitting to a complete lack of drawing skills. Feng Chengjun offered to help, suggesting Wen Bin use him as a model. As Wen Bin studied Feng Chengjun, a subtle flutter stirred within her, signaling a shift in her feelings. Determined to get expelled, Wen Bin began to emulate Lei Zexin’s rebellious behavior. However, the instructors still viewed her as a good student.
The painting teacher, seeing her lack of skill, even offered private lessons, much to Wen Bin's dismay. Undeterred, Wen Bin adopted Lei Zexin’s slovenly style of dress and followed him everywhere, insisting on joining all his activities. Exasperated, Lei Zexin challenged Wen Bin to strike a new student, Lin Bing Shen. Wen Bin gathered her courage and provoked Lin Bing Shen, who, seeing the intimidating Lei Zexin nearby, dared not retaliate.
Afterward, Wen Bin was crushed to learn that the student had just received a letter stating his parents were gravely ill. Overcome with guilt, she faced the judgment of her classmates. Lei Zexin patted her shoulder, remarking that unlike himself, Wen Bin was better suited to be a good student. That evening, Feng Chengjun confronted Lei Zexin.
He pointed out that while Lei Zexin came from an influential family, Wen Bin was a humble student supporting her mother and a seriously ill sister. Feng Chengjun warned that if Wen Bin were expelled, her future would be ruined, and urged Lei Zexin not to lead her astray. He challenged Lei Zexin, questioning if returning to a life as a black market writer was the better future he envisioned for Wen Bin.
Angered by Feng Chengjun’s unsolicited advice, Lei Zexin retorted that he had no right to decide Wen Bin’s future and defiantly took her out for drinks. They arrived at Mingren Tavern, where Han Shumin saw their unkempt attire and doubted they had money for drinks. Inside, they witnessed thugs harassing a young woman. Lei Zexin and Wen Bin intervened, but in the ensuing chaos, they accidentally shattered the tavern's heirloom Wine God Statue.
When the innkeeper demanded compensation, Lei Zexin left his student tag as collateral, promising to return with the money. Upon scaling the wall back into the academy, they found Han Shengzhi and his followers waiting. Wen Bin, still hoping for expulsion, boldly confessed to hitting Lin Bing Shen and drinking off-campus. The next day, the innkeeper caused a commotion at the academy gate, and Wen Bin again took full responsibility.
Her eagerness for punishment was cut short when Feng Chengjun sternly informed her that expulsion from Yun Shang Academy meant permanent removal from the official registry, barring her from ever holding public office, entering another academy, or even working as a clerk. Wen Bin was horrified, realizing the dire consequences for her younger brother, whose identity she was using. Believing Lei Zexin had orchestrated the situation, Feng Chengjun again confronted him, warning him not to jeopardize Wen Bin's future.
Meanwhile, Wen Bin, desperate to protect her brother's prospects, pleaded with Principal Feng and the instructors for another chance. The principal, deeply disappointed, initially decided to expel both Wen Bin and Lei Zexin. However, Mr. Li argued that Wen Bin, a rare talent recommended by Master Wang, was likely led astray by bad influence and deserved a second chance. To ensure fairness, the principal decreed that the entire student and teacher body would vote on their expulsion.
Fearing the outcome, Wen Bin sought support from her classmates, but they avoided her. A sympathetic student explained that her name was on the same petition as Lei Zexin's. Since most students wanted the troublesome Lei Zexin gone, she was suffering by association.
Episode 8 Recap
Following the incident at the tavern that left them facing expulsion, Feng Chengjun visits the establishment to investigate. A waiter confirms that Lei Zexin and Wen Bin had intervened to help a young woman. He clarifies that the tavern's statue was not deliberately broken; a bully had pushed Wen Bin, causing him to accidentally knock it over. The shopkeeper, knowing he couldn't get compensation from the bullies, had then pressured the two scholars.
Feng Chengjun's initial attempts to find other witnesses are unsuccessful. Meanwhile, at the academy, Wen Bin is disheartened. Yu Lexuan approaches her with advice, explaining that Lei Zexin, also known as Lei Ao, is not swayed by force but responds to a softer approach. He suggests Wen Bin act pitifully to appeal to Lei Zexin's empathy and demonstrates the required whiny tone for her to practice.
Wen Bin puts the plan into action, seeking out Lei Zexin and pleading with him in the pitiful voice Yu Lexuan taught her. Initially repulsed, Lei Zexin attempts to flee, but Wen Bin persistently follows. She expresses her fear of expulsion and the immense disappointment it would cause her sister, who has always believed in her. Overwhelmed by her emotional appeal, Lei Zexin agrees to cooperate on the condition that she stops speaking in such an exaggerated manner.
Feng Chengjun continues his search for witnesses and is led to Han Shumin by her maid, Xiao Qin. Han Shumin confirms she was at the tavern and clarifies that Lei Zexin and Wen Bin had acted justly to punish bullies, readily offering to provide a testimony. She then tries to give Feng Chengjun a personal embroidered pouch, but he politely refuses, stating his current focus is solely on his studies, not romantic matters.
Han Shumin accepts his refusal, clarifying that she simply wishes for them to be close friends. With Han Shumin's testimony, Feng Chengjun proves to the academy's faculty that Lei Zexin and Wen Bin were acting righteously. Principal Feng grants them a probationary period, stipulating that they must maintain satisfactory academic performance in all subjects to avoid expulsion. Wen Bin is deeply grateful, urging Lei Zexin to thank Feng Chengjun.
However, Lei Zexin dismisses Feng Chengjun as a hypocrite seeking popular support and a "pathological liar," declaring he owes him no gratitude. Determined to reform, Wen Bin faces skepticism from a student prefect who accuses her of cunningly befriending Feng Chengjun and gaining Lei Zexin's protection. When Lei Zexin, angered, challenges the prefect, Wen Bin reminds him they are on probation and persuades him not to engage.
She then insists that Lei Zexin attend the afternoon class taught by the new Mr. Ding Ruo Yang, promising his unique teaching style might interest him. In class, Mr. Ding's methods are indeed unconventional. He presents an exquisite jar and tells the students to fill it with their "sincerity" to pass. After the students murmur about him soliciting bribes, he proceeds to perform magic tricks with the jar.
Only Feng Chengjun objects, urging Mr. Ding to stop the tricks and teach properly. Mr. Ding praises Feng Chengjun, explaining the lesson's point: wisdom lies not in answers, but in the courage to question. He passes Feng Chengjun and fails everyone else for their passivity. Later, Principal Feng is dismayed to learn his precious jar was broken by Mr. Ding for "teaching needs."
With a weekly exam looming, Wen Bin reminds a frustrated Lei Zexin of their probation and their failure in Mr. Ding's class. They must practice for the music test, but the flute is Lei Zexin's weakness. Their initial attempts are atrocious, producing sounds described by others as "music of Hades" and "demon shrieks," keeping the entire dormitory awake. The desperate students beg Feng Chengjun, a skilled flutist, to intervene. Feng Chengjun agrees, first correcting Wen Bin's technique.
He explains to a surprised Wen Bin that her previous words about not imposing one's will on others made him reflect, and he has decided to stop interfering in her affairs. Impressed, Wen Bin acknowledges his integrity, despite his unpredictable moods. After Wen Bin quickly learns from Feng Chengjun, she in turn begins teaching Lei Zexin. Through this shared practice, their playing gradually improves to a tolerable level, to the great relief of their fellow scholars.
Episode 9 Recap
Inspired by Wen Bin's rapid progress on the flute, other students also sought guidance from Feng Chengjun. However, Feng Chengjun, seeing they were merely seeking shortcuts before the exam after neglecting their studies, turned them down. Believing that anyone with a desire to learn should be helped, Wen Bin took it upon herself to teach her classmates, who were deeply grateful. Soon, the music theory exam began. Wen Bin and Lei Zexin's remarkable improvement surprised the teacher, and both passed.
After a discussion, the Principal and other masters decided to end Wen Bin and Lei Zexin's observation period, allowing them to remain at the Academy. Furious that his adversaries were allowed to stay, Han Shengzhi interpreted Feng Chengjun's support for them as a challenge to the academy's rules and a personal provocation, vowing to make their lives difficult. Meanwhile, Wen Bin happily thanked Feng Chengjun for his help. Feng Chengjun acknowledged her own efforts contributed to her success.
Lei Zexin then playfully interjected, asking for his share of the credit, which Wen Bin graciously gave. Just then, Yu Lexuan arrived to discuss an important matter with the talented writer Wen Bin. Having finished the fourth volume of her romance novel, Wen Bin found herself lost in her own story, imagining herself as the heroine and Feng Chengjun and Lei Zexin as two handsome rivals vying for her love.
She informed Feng Chengjun of her plan to hold a book signing event, promising to focus on her studies afterward. Feng Chengjun reluctantly agreed, cautioning her since her observation period had just ended and offering financial help if she ever needed it. Organized by Yu Lexuan, the signing event at Mu Lai Bookstore drew a large crowd of readers. Wen Bin, disguised as "Mr. Bai" with a fake mustache, charmed many young female fans with her dashing appearance.
The profits were to be split seventy-thirty, with Yu Lexuan taking the larger share for handling publicity. Among the attendees was Han Shumin, who, knowing Yu Lexuan was an academy student, asked for his help in connecting with Feng Chengjun. For a fee, Yu Lexuan agreed, suggesting that love letters would be an effective strategy and even offered to find a ghostwriter.
Upon returning home, Wen Bin shared her compiled academy notes with her younger brother, hoping they could switch their identities back once his health improved. The herbs she had been getting from the academy for him were now scarce and expensive, and the school could no longer provide them. Desperate for money to buy the medicine, Wen Bin accepted a commission from Yu Lexuan to ghostwrite love letters for Han Shumin, unaware they were intended for Feng Chengjun.
When Feng Chengjun received a mysterious letter, he sought out Wen Bin for help interpreting it. Wen Bin was shocked to realize Han Shumin was the admirer and the "Min" in the letter referred to her. After she explained the letter's meaning, Feng Chengjun was dismissive, stating his intent to reply that he was dedicated to his studies and had no interest in romance.
He also criticized the writer's poor skills, suggesting Han Shumin shouldn't waste money on such an unlettered scribe, leaving Wen Bin dismayed at having dug her own pit. Tasked by Han Shumin to receive the reply, Yu Lexuan intercepted Feng Chengjun's letter. Instead of conveying the rejection, he lied to Han Shumin, claiming Feng Chengjun was deeply touched and had praised the writer's talent. Overjoyed, Han Shumin instructed Wen Bin to continue writing letters to Feng Chengjun daily.
One evening, while Wen Bin and Han Shumin were discussing new content at Mr. Chao's establishment, Feng Chengjun unexpectedly appeared. He was concerned, having searched the entire academy for Wen Bin, who had been absent for two days. Cornered, Wen Bin lied that she had been at Yu Lexuan's place to learn from him, explaining she kept it secret because she knew Feng Chengjun disliked him. Seemingly accepting her explanation, Feng Chengjun reminded her to prioritize her safety and to discern right from wrong.
Episode 10 Recap
Following the book signing, Feng Chengjun arrived at Mr. Chao's establishment, where Xue Wenxi, having nowhere to hide, attempted to flee. Feng Chengjun quickly caught her, insisting she stay and witness the resolution of the "misunderstanding." He then addressed Lady Han, acknowledging her letters but explaining that his academic commitments were paramount. He stated he had no intention of pursuing romance before becoming an official and hoped she would understand.
Heartbroken, Lady Han pointed out that his reply letter had said he was "touched" and praised the writer's talent. Feng Chengjun clarified his true intention was to advise her against giving her heart away so easily or being overly subservient, as it only leads to pain and affection cannot be forced. Understanding his meaning, Lady Han apologized for the intrusion and departed sadly with her maid, Xiao Qin. Feng Chengjun then turned on Xue Wenxi, accusing her of deception.
He criticized her for not understanding that a gentleman makes an honorable living, urging her to focus on her studies rather than scheming for money. Xue Wenxi could only protest that this was not her intention. Later, Xiao Qin confronted Yu Lexuan over her mistress’s heartbreak, but he dismissed the money spent as a "worthwhile lesson fee." He then continued to mislead Lady Han, claiming Feng Chengjun admired women of principle and strong character.
He advised her to transform her sorrow into strength to win Feng Chengjun's admiration. As Han Shumin was about to agree to pay for more of his "help," Xue Wenxi emerged from her argument with Feng Chengjun and intervened. She exposed their scheme, refusing to let Yu Lexuan continue swindling the kind-hearted lady.
Realizing she had been duped, Han Shumin concluded that Xue Wenxi and Yu Lexuan were having a falling out over their profits and left to find more reliable assistance. Yu Lexuan complained to Xue Wenxi about losing a major client, but she suggested they earn honest money together. He sarcastically rejected her, declaring that she had "scuttled their friendship boat."
Unfazed, Xue Wenxi retorted that one must know which money is ethical to earn, reminding him that credibility is the foundation of business. The next day, Yu Lexuan found a worried Xue Wenxi pondering how to earn money. He offered to find her some high-paying writing jobs but warned her to stop writing her popular novel, "Where Love Begins".
He explained that the fourth volume was circulating so widely it had attracted the attention of Mr. Li Hu, who was now conducting strict investigations. Seeing her plight, Yu Lexuan relented on his earlier anger, proclaiming he had "bought a new ship" for their friendship. He arranged to meet her later at Mu Lai Bookstore. Shortly after, Lei Zexin asked Yu Lexuan to help him locate two individuals, Ke Shijun and Qin Beichuan.
Though Yu Lexuan had never heard of them, he agreed to investigate. Meanwhile, Feng Chengjun and Xue Wenxi entered a cold war. During meals, Feng Chengjun would pointedly move away if she sat at his table, leaving her distressed. Witnessing this, Lei Zexin suggested to Xue Wenxi that they team up to get the "annoying guy" kicked out, but she refused.
Yu Lexuan's investigation revealed that Qin Beichuan, Ke Shijun, and a third man, Li Hu, were all fugitives wanted by the imperial court. He explained that all three, along with Lei Zexin's brother, Lei Zexun, were students of the esteemed scholar Xue Dingkun and had attended Yun Shang Academy eighteen years prior. They had escaped after the incident involving Xue Dingkun and were subsequently erased from the academy's records.
Separately, in the Diligence Pavilion, Mr. Li Hu and Principal Feng were surprised to find Lei Zexin voluntarily cleaning. Lei Zexin, feigning diligence and even calling them "beloved teachers," was actually there to search for clues, and he soon discovered a locked box that he believed held a secret. After days of tension, Feng Chengjun finally spoke to Xue Wenxi as they were both heading to South Street.
At Mr. Chao's shop, he revealed a stack of books he had painstakingly copied by hand to help her earn money, leaving her deeply touched. He explained it was not charity but income from his own labor, and if she felt uncomfortable, she could consider it a debt. Moved by his gesture, Xue Wenxi made him promise not to lie to her again.
When he asked for the same promise, she playfully replied, "I'll do my best," a response he cheekily echoed back. Later, both Feng Chengjun and Lei Zexin confronted Xue Wenxi after having read her novel. They had realized that two of the main characters were based on them. Feng Chengjun found it illogical that the character based on him—a "limping man with a big mole"—could suddenly transform into a great hero.
Lei Zexin was furious that his character, a hero in the third volume, was depicted as "reckless" in the fourth, vying with the "disgusting loser" (Feng Chengjun's character) for the heroine's affection, ruining his image. Both demanded she provide a "reasonable explanation" in the next volume. Exasperated, Xue Wenxi explained she could not write any more due to the academy's crackdown, but Lei Zexin insisted she must clear his name. Witnessing his dramatic reaction, Feng Chengjun wryly called him a hypocrite.
Episode 11 Recap
Having failed to find any records of the wanted men in the Diligence Pavilion, Yu Lexuan and Lei Zexin regroup. Lei Zexin theorizes that the records might be in the Interrogation Hall, as the men would have been expelled for violating academy rules. They agree to search the hall that night under the guise of cleaning. Afterward, Lei Zexin, curious about his portrayal, asks Yu Lexuan for a copy of Xue Wenxi's novel, "Where Love Begins".
As they are discussing it, Principal Feng unexpectedly arrives. To avert trouble, Yu Lexuan claims he just confiscated the novels from other students, a quick-thinking lie that the Principal praises. Principal Feng then announces a strict ban on reading such novels until he can personally review them to determine their suitability for students. Meanwhile, Xue Wenxi receives a distressing letter from her younger brother.
He details his recent illness and the soaring cost of medicine, explaining that the money she sent was insufficient. To make matters worse, their mother has worked herself to the point of collapse trying to cover the expenses and stubbornly refuses to rest. Deeply troubled, Xue Wenxi knows she must send money home immediately. She approaches Yu Lexuan for help, deciding to take the risk of writing novels within the academy.
Understanding her desperation, Yu Lexuan gives her a 500-wen advance, agreeing to split the profits from future sales. Xue Wenxi’s fears are soon amplified when a student, Mo Xiaohuan, is severely caned by Mr. Li for merely being caught copying "Where Love Begins". The harsh punishment makes Xue Wenxi realize the dire consequences she would face if discovered as the author. That night, Yu Lexuan and Lei Zexin proceed with their plan, "cleaning" the Interrogation Hall.
Mr. Li, initially suspicious of their sudden diligence, leaves and returns later to check on them, but his doubts are dispelled when he finds them still hard at work. During their ruse, they successfully locate old disciplinary records, discovering that Lei Zexin's brother, Lei Zexun, was expelled in Hong De Year 30, and another wanted man, Qin Beichuan, fled to the state of Gui after his expulsion in Hong De Year 24.
They also find an entry for Ke Shijun from Lin Village. Believing Feng Chengjun and Lei Zexin are asleep, Xue Wenxi secretly stays up to write her novel, unaware that both are feigning sleep, eager for a chance to read her new work. The next morning, Lei Zexin confronts her, demanding she kill off Feng Chengjun’s character by having him get hit by a cow.
Shortly after, Feng Chengjun advises her to write about grander themes like freedom and equality rather than just romance. Amused and frustrated, Xue Wenxi retorts that she writes for sales, not lofty ideals. To resolve their creative dispute, she suggests they each write their own version of the story, which she will then combine. Separately, the renowned performer Mu Xiaoman asks Yu Lexuan to bring Wen Bin (Xue Wenxi's male identity) to her performance at Cai Yun House.
Yu Lexuan agrees on the condition that Mu Xiaoman writes a promotional post for Wen Bin’s novel. At the same time, the student council president, Han Shengzhi, learns that a student is secretly writing and circulating novels on campus. He orders a comprehensive search of all dormitories, which leads to the discovery of three novels in Xue Wenxi’s room. The books are confiscated and delivered to Principal Feng, setting the stage for a tense confrontation.
Episode 12 Recap
Principal Feng confronted Feng Chengjun, Lei Zexin, and Wen Bin with three recently discovered dialogue novels, each distinct in style and handwriting. Feng Chengjun immediately admitted to writing the blue-covered book. Principal Feng, initially stern, changed his demeanor upon hearing this, praising Feng Chengjun's work as aspirational and a "feast for the eyes."
Next, Lei Zexin confessed to writing the black-covered book, leading Principal Feng to commend his versatility in both literature and martial arts, describing his novel as staunch and full of chivalry and tender-heartedness. When it was Wen Bin's turn, however, the principal's expression grew severe, causing Wen Bin to flinch.
Despite the Student Council's strong demand for severe punishment for all three, Principal Feng dismissed them to class, leaving Han Shengzhi, who was also present, seething with frustration that they escaped penalty. Later, Yu Lexuan informed Wen Bin that despite the sluggish book market, he had a plan to boost sales: have Mu Xiao Man write a promotional post.
Wen Bin was reluctant to be indebted to Mu Xiao Man, but Yu Lexuan persuaded him by emphasizing that her talent could be converted into money and that she would only agree to help Wen Bin. On Mu Xiao Man's birthday, Han Shengzhi lavishly gifted the entire Cai Yun House and presented her with a beautiful miniature house, promising her a "happiest home." However, Mu Xiao Man's reaction was cold.
A flashback revealed they were once lovers, but Han Shengzhi abandoned her after his father vehemently opposed their relationship, leaving her deeply hurt and resentful. That evening, during her birthday celebration, Mu Xiao Man was scheduled to perform and toss an embroidered ball. Han Shengzhi watched intently, determined that no one else should catch it. Just as the performance was about to start, it was announced that Mu Xiao Man refused to go on stage without "Mr. Wen."
After Wen Bin arrived, she finally appeared and tossed the embroidered ball directly to him. Taken by surprise, Wen Bin instinctively caught it, but in his confusion, he threw it to the ground. The crowd gasped at the ill-omened gesture, murmuring that Mu Xiao Man might now be unmarriageable. To save her from humiliation, Wen Bin quickly picked up the ball, claiming his hand had slipped.
The crowd's mood shifted, and they began praising the two as a "good match," which visibly enraged Han Shengzhi. After the event, Wen Bin met with Mu Xiao Man. She revealed she already had the promotional post for his novel written, having carried it with her in anticipation of his arrival. When he formally asked, she presented it to him.
Feeling the weight of his disguise and the academy's rules, Wen Bin confessed his inability to promise her a future, describing himself as a struggling student with dim prospects who was accustomed to a carefree life and feared he would inevitably hurt her. Mu Xiao Man dismissed his concerns, telling him he did not understand her feelings and that their connection was all that mattered.
Meanwhile, Lei Zexin tracked down Ke Shijun to question him about events from eighteen years prior. Feigning cooperation, Ke Shijun led him to a notebook and then stabbed him with a hidden blade. Wounded, Lei Zexin staggered back to his dorm room, where Feng Chengjun was reading. Noticing Lei Zexin's pale face, Feng Chengjun offered him a blanket and suggested he see the academy physician, but Lei Zexin stubbornly refused, insisting he and Feng Chengjun would never be friends.
In contrast, Wen Bin spent the entire night at Yu Lexuan’s place, diligently writing her next novel as Yu Lexuan kept her company. News of Wen Bin catching Mu Xiao Man's embroidered ball spread like wildfire through the academy, and he was constantly followed and questioned by curious students. Mr. Li Hu summoned and reprimanded Wen Bin for a scholar's inappropriate participation in such an event.
Wen Bin tried to explain the confusing situation and his distress over having to pick the ball back up after throwing it down, but Mr. Li accused him of becoming adept at making excuses that shamed the academy. Han Shengzhi then confronted Wen Bin, accusing him of daring to take "his" embroidered ball. Wen Bin retorted that he had thrown it away, but Han Shengzhi hadn't picked it up. Han Shengzhi warned Wen Bin to abide by the academy's rules.
Soon after, Wen Bin and Yu Lexuan visited the bookseller, Mr. Chao, who was overwhelmed by the novel's success. He recounted how the books weren't just sold but "snatched up" by an eager crowd. Yu Lexuan suggested a new sales method of collecting deposits for pre-orders. Mr. Chao lauded the idea and credited Mu Xiao Man's promotional post for the book's immense popularity, calling her and Wen Bin a "formidable duo."
Yu Lexuan then insisted that Wen Bin must personally deliver a new copy to Mu Xiao Man. At Cai Yun House, Wen Bin delivered the book but politely declined offers of refreshments, stating it wasn't an official open day and he had to leave. Sensing his distance, Mu Xiao Man asked if he was avoiding her.
Wen Bin admitted that he was constrained by his circumstances and likely couldn't visit again, advising her not to wait for him as he could never give her what she truly wanted. He then left abruptly, using the academy's attendance check as an excuse. Separately, Han Shumin sought Yu Lexuan's help in arranging a meeting with Feng Chengjun.
Feeling indebted to her over a past incident, Yu Lexuan gave her a signed copy of Wen Bin's latest novel and promised to arrange the meeting. He then approached Wen Bin, insisting that only he could persuade Feng Chengjun. He framed it as a gentleman's duty, comparing Han Shumin's longing for Feng Chengjun to Mu Xiao Man's for Wen Bin. Reluctantly, Wen Bin agreed to try.
Episode 13 Recap
Xue Wenxi, disguised as Wen Bin, excitedly told Feng Chengjun that her books were selling exceptionally well, prompting his congratulations. However, Wen Bin then cautiously brought up Han Shumin, explaining that she had been deeply hurt and depressed since Feng Chengjun's previous rejection. Wen Bin, feeling sympathetic, had already promised Han Shumin to arrange a meeting between them. Feng Chengjun found Wen Bin's unsolicited interference both amusing and frustrating but ultimately acquiesced.
Soon after, a delighted Han Shumin learned of Feng Chengjun's agreement to meet. Eager to improve his impression of her, she went to the market with her maid, Xiao Qin, to meet Feng Chengjun and Wen Bin. During their outing, Han Shumin instructed Xiao Qin to distract Wen Bin, allowing her to spend time alone with Feng Chengjun.
Wen Bin, observing Han Shumin, realized she did not appear as distraught as Yu Lexuan had claimed and understood that she had been misled once again. Thinking quickly, Wen Bin approached Han Shumin and fabricated an urgent message from Principal Feng, using it as an excuse to pull Feng Chengjun away. Upon learning that Principal Feng had not sought them at all, Feng Chengjun became annoyed at Wen Bin's readiness to lie.
He turned to leave, but Wen Bin desperately apologized, following him closely. Just as they turned a corner, they encountered Mu Xiao Man, who was overjoyed to see Wen Bin and eager to reminisce. Feng Chengjun attempted to excuse himself, but Wen Bin, in a moment of panic, hugged him around the waist to stop him. Amused yet helpless, Feng Chengjun agreed to accompany Wen Bin and Mu Xiao Man to Mingren Tavern.
Arriving at the tavern, they were informed it had been entirely reserved by a wealthy young lady. Wen Bin saw this as an opportunity to escape, but Feng Chengjun, unexpectedly curious, insisted on going inside. They entered only to find themselves face to face with the patron: Han Shumin. Caught in an awkward situation, Feng Chengjun reluctantly took a seat, and Wen Bin joined him with a strained smile.
Throughout the meal, Mu Xiao Man showed great affection towards Wen Bin. Witnessing their closeness, Feng Chengjun raised a toast, wishing them eternal love, leaving Wen Bin in an incredibly uncomfortable position. As the evening progressed, an intoxicated Han Shumin brought up old matters concerning Mu Xiao Man and her brother, Han Shengzhi, speaking rudely to Mu Xiao Man. Unable to tolerate this, Wen Bin stood up and challenged Han Shumin to a drinking duel.
Feng Chengjun, exasperated, criticized Wen Bin for behaving like a petulant girl, unaware that Wen Bin was, in fact, a woman. Later that night, Feng Chengjun and Wen Bin climbed back into the academy over a wall, where they inadvertently witnessed Mr. Li Hu being doused by a bucket of water. Unbeknownst to them, this was a trap set by Lei Zexin to test if Li Hu was the mysterious martial arts expert who had previously sent him a message.
Li Hu's clumsy failure to avoid the water led Lei Zexin to conclude that he possessed no such skills. Xue Wenxi found her feelings for Feng Chengjun becoming increasingly perplexing. She would gaze at his sleeping profile and instinctively reach out to straighten his collar. Confused and unsettled by her own actions, she remained oblivious to her developing crush on him.
The following day, during literature class, the teacher asked Feng Chengjun and Wen Bin to read the poem "Quince" aloud. As Wen Bin recited the verses, which expressed tender affections, she felt an intense shyness, adding to her internal turmoil.
Episode 14 Recap
After class, Wen Bin was attempting to slip away when he was abruptly pulled back by Feng Chengjun. Other students, noticing Wen Bin's discomfort, assumed Feng Chengjun was bullying him and rushed to his defense. To dispel the misunderstanding, Wen Bin awkwardly claimed they were close friends gathering material for their story group by testing Feng Chengjun's reactions to being avoided.
Sensing Wen Bin was hiding something, Feng Chengjun asked if he was in trouble, but Wen Bin brushed him off, stating he had an emergency before sneaking out. Wen Bin, having scaled the back wall on a prohibited outing day, met his mother outside the academy. His mother noted his increasing thinness, expressing worry about his younger brother's persistent fever and the urgent need for medicine.
Wen Bin reassured her that his story was selling exceptionally well, providing money for the family. He promised to take care of himself while balancing his studies and earning money, vowing to return well-fed with more funds. Upon his return, Wen Bin was ambushed by the Student Council President, Han Shengzhi, who harbored a grudge against him. Han aggressively confronted Wen Bin for violating the no-outing rule, suggesting he had gone to a disreputable place like Cai Yun House.
He accused Wen Bin of having "bad conduct" and damaging the school's reputation. Wen Bin admitted to breaking the rules and accepted punishment but defiantly rejected the baseless accusation against his character. Infuriated, Han ordered Wen Bin to stand on the roof in the scorching sun until he apologized. Han ignored concerns from others that the punishment was too severe and that involving Mr. Li Hu from the Disciplinary Hall would result in a far worse penalty—a painful whipping.
Wen Bin stubbornly stood for hours until he collapsed from exhaustion. Saved from a fatal fall by a safety rope, he was left dangling in mid-air by Han as a public spectacle. Just as the situation escalated, Feng Chengjun arrived. He pushed through the crowd and firmly declared that even if Wen Bin had erred, he did not deserve such cruel treatment, accusing the Student Council of effectively trying to kill him.
Han defended his actions, claiming safety precautions were in place and blaming Wen Bin's own stubbornness. Feng Chengjun countered that the Council's role was to persuade students to admit their mistakes willingly, not to compel them through force. As Han threatened to escalate the matter to Mr. Li Hu, Yu Lexuan intervened, diffusing the tension by pointing out the political unwisdom of involving a higher authority at that point.
After a stern warning to Wen Bin, Han allowed Feng Chengjun to take him away. Back in their room, Feng Chengjun pressed Wen Bin about his secret outing, again questioning if he had gone to see Ms. Mu and expressing disappointment at the lack of trust. Wen Bin promised to explain everything someday and asked Feng Chengjun to believe in him.
Meanwhile, discontent grew among the students, who accused President Han of using his authority for personal revenge over his failure to win Ms. Mu's affection. Their anger intensified when Han summoned Lu Zhao Rong and Mo Xiao Huan, two Student Council members who had helped Wen Bin. Han accused Lu Zhao Rong of leaking confidential information and ordered him to make a public apology before the entire school—a great stain on a scholar's record.
When Mo Xiao Huan spoke in Lu's defense, Han ordered him to receive thirty slaps on the hand and a deduction of thirty conduct marks. Fortunately, Principal Feng arrived amidst the chaos, witnessing the punishment. Students immediately appealed to him, accusing Han of abusing his power. Feng Chengjun presented a protest letter signed by numerous scholars, revealing widespread dissatisfaction.
After consulting with his teachers, Principal Feng decided to hold a policy forum that evening for representatives to debate and vote on amending the school rules, rescinding the punishments for Lu Zhao Rong and Mo Xiao Huan. Han tasked Yu Lexuan with debating against Feng Chengjun, demanding victory. Feng Chengjun readily agreed to participate, and Wen Bin also stepped forward, feeling it was his responsibility to address the issue he had caused. The policy forum commenced with a heated debate.
Feng Chengjun argued for rescinding the Student Council's punitive authority, suggesting they focus on supervision instead. He challenged the outdated rules, asserting that "times have changed" and that the regulations were often misapplied without considering individual circumstances. Han staunchly defended tradition, accusing Feng of opportunism. When questioned, Wen Bin honestly admitted he deserved punishment for breaking the rules.
However, Feng Chengjun eloquently argued that it was unreasonable to subject a struggling scholar, who worked to support his family without compromising his studies, to physical punishment. He emphasized that varying life circumstances made a uniform application of rules unjust. This resonated with many scholars, who shared their own aspirations—some wished to visit ailing parents, while others desired to pursue painting, scholarship, or business rather than an official career.
Feng Chengjun then proposed eliminating counterproductive punishments in favor of teaching methods tailored to individual aptitudes. Inspired, Wen Bin rose to speak, extending the discussion to the fundamental principle of equality. He boldly questioned why men and women should be treated differently and denied equal access to education, asking the attendees if they would prefer their future wives to be knowledgeable or ignorant.
Despite the controversial nature of his remarks, Principal Feng insisted Wen Bin's words be recorded, emphasizing the importance of open debate for meaningful reform. Other students voiced their agreement, sharing stories of female relatives who yearned for education. They collectively called for new rules that would help them become honorable citizens who could serve the country and its people. The forum concluded with this powerful call for change, but the moment of unity was immediately shattered by the sounds of a chase erupting outside the hall.
Episode 15 Recap
The Imperial Feathered Guards began a widespread search for rebels distributing the Book of Ten Thousand Words. Completely unaware, Lei Zexin ventured out at night in dark clothing, only to find himself pursued by Commander Xu. Unable to shake his pursuers, Lei Zexin quickly changed into civilian clothes on a quiet street. Commander Xu and his men relentlessly followed him to the doorstep of Lei Zexin's father, the Left Deputy Commander.
When Lei Zexin's father stepped out to investigate, Commander Xu saw that Lei Zexin was the Deputy Commander's son and decided to back off, though he remained suspicious and wary of Lei Zexin. Lei Zexin's father admonished his son for being out late instead of staying at the academy. Lei Zexin, however, reacted coldly, bitterly denouncing his father for disowning his elder brother years ago and turning a blind eye to his death, declaring his father unworthy.
Meanwhile, after attending the policy forum, Feng Chengjun and Xue Wenxi returned to Room Two of the Regular Dorm. Xue Wenxi praised Feng Chengjun's performance, finding him incredibly impressive, and realized she was liking him more and more. Feng Chengjun then advised Xue Wenxi to be honest with Mu Xiao Man regarding the embroidered ball, emphasizing that avoiding the issue would not solve anything.
Xue Wenxi felt helpless, but more importantly, she wanted to know if Feng Chengjun had any romantic interest in Han Shumin. Feng Chengjun laughed heartily, confirming he had no such feelings for Lady Han, and expressed his desire for a partner with whom he could "share weal and woe." Xue Wenxi remarked on his high standards, but Feng Chengjun chuckled, saying that he and Xue Wenxi already shared weal and woe. Hearing this, Xue Wenxi was secretly overjoyed.
Mu Xiao Man wrote a letter to Xue Wenxi, stating she had thought things through: their relationship could wait until Xue Wenxi took up an official post. For now, she would focus on practicing singing and dancing for a charity performance at the upcoming Grand Archery Ceremony, urging Xue Wenxi to study diligently and be cautious of ill-intentioned individuals. Unbeknownst to them, this letter fell into the hands of Han Shengzhi, the President of the Student Council.
Han Shengzhi instantly realized that the "ill-intentioned individuals" referred to him, and his face turned green with rage. Later, Lei Zexin returned to the dormitory, confused by the increased closeness between Xue Wenxi and Feng Chengjun. Yu Lexuan then explained that Lei Zexin had missed a truly spectacular policy forum.
Master Wang and the other masters observed that many of Feng Chengjun's ideas were remarkably similar to those of the late Xue Ding Kun, and Xue Wenxi's views were also very similar to Feng Chengjun's. Curious, they wondered about Xue Wenxi's family background, sensing she was no ordinary commoner. After the policy forum, students also noticed the growing camaraderie between Xue Wenxi and Feng Chengjun.
They found it peculiar and worried that Xue Wenxi might be seen as someone seeking to climb the social ladder by associating with the powerful. Master Wang sought to investigate Xue Wenxi's family background, but Principal Feng revealed there was no detailed registration for her.
He only had a brief record stating that Xue Wenxi's father died when she was young, she took her mother's surname, Wen, and lived in a small village in the Western District, near San Shen Temple. Mr. Ding, whose full name is Ding Ruoyang, later visited the village to see Xue Wenxi's mother. Upon seeing her, he was stunned, recognizing her as Xue Ding Kun's widow.
Deeply shocked, Mr. Ding discreetly left, realizing Xue Wenxi was indeed Xue Ding Kun's descendant. He pondered that the truth should not be revealed rashly, especially recalling a past conspiracy where Xue Ding Kun's family members were supposedly secretly executed under orders, though he questioned who truly issued that command. Meanwhile, many scholars in the academy openly discussed Xue Wenxi and Feng Chengjun's relationship, believing Xue Wenxi was only befriending Feng Chengjun because his father was a governor.
Lei Zexin overheard these discussions and, feeling the accusations were unfair to Xue Wenxi, returned to the dorm furious. He sternly forbade Xue Wenxi from further interaction with Feng Chengjun. Unwilling to let rumors tarnish their friendship, Feng Chengjun publicly proposed that he and Xue Wenxi become sworn brothers before Confucius, proving that their bond was not about seeking power or influence.
Privately, Xue Wenxi, who harbored romantic feelings for Feng Chengjun, was awkward and conflicted, wondering how she, as a girl, could become his sworn brother. However, with the situation already in motion, she reluctantly agreed. Lei Zexin, witnessing the ceremony, was deeply disappointed. Upon hearing that Xue Wenxi and Feng Chengjun had become sworn brothers, Han Shengzhi was vexed. He summoned Yu Lexuan and instructed him to find a way to expel Xue Wenxi from the academy.
Yu Lexuan was initially unwilling, but Han Shengzhi relentlessly threatened to expose his true identity as a fake nobleman, which would make him the biggest hypocrite and laughingstock in the entire academy. With his secret held captive, Yu Lexuan had no choice but to reluctantly agree to Han Shengzhi's demands, though he subtly implied he would bide his time and use cunning tactics to achieve the goal.
Episode 16 Recap
The next day, Feng Chengjun and Wenxi were deep in discussion within their dormitory, dissecting the finer points of a recent policy forum. Wenxi, with a thoughtful expression, raised a pertinent question about the age-old dilemma of whether education or wealth should precede the other for societal betterment, likening it to the debate of "fish versus fishing."
Lei Zexin, overhearing their philosophical exchange, interjected with a sarcastic remark, dismissively labeling them "pedantic" and mocking their newly formed bond as "sworn brothers." He accused Feng Chengjun of being petty, claiming he had immediately taken Wenxi to the Confucius Temple to form their bond right after Lei Zexin had merely suggested Wenxi keep her distance. Wenxi, attempting to de-escalate the tension, expressed her profound gratitude to Lei Zexin.
Feng Chengjun, however, refused to let Lei Zexin twist the truth, prompting Lei Zexin to declare his disgust for the very word "brothers." Wenxi then tried to reassure Feng Chengjun, stating that being sworn brothers was actually a good thing, as it allowed her to be close to him. Meanwhile, in a moment of private reflection, Yu Lexuan found himself plagued by insomnia, admitting that Wenxi had become an unexpected challenge.
He realized that only by compelling her departure from Yun Shang Academy could he achieve his own objectives and ensure his safety. The following day, Lei Zexin deliberately disrupted Feng Chengjun’s quiet study time in the dormitory by practicing his martial arts. Their usual bickering quickly escalated into a full-blown argument over who was disturbing whom.
Wenxi, stepping in as the peacemaker, suggested they all go out, mentioning new ink-stones at the stationery store for Feng Chengjun and good wine on South Street for Lei Zexin. Despite their continued squabbling, Wenxi managed to convince them to join her, also inviting Yu Lexuan. As they browsed the market, a vendor enthusiastically tried to sell them "lucky sachets," explaining the unique meanings attributed to each color.
Separately, Yu Lexuan approached Wenxi, subtly suggesting that life outside Yun Shang Academy might be more liberating for her, especially since she did not aspire to become an official, and hinting that dealing with Feng Chengjun and Lei Zexin's constant arguments must be exhausting. Wenxi acknowledged their bickering but firmly stated that she had learned a great deal at the academy and was not suffering. A sudden, heavy downpour then forced the group to seek shelter at Yu Le House.
Yu Lexuan kindly offered them dry clothes. However, Wenxi insisted on changing privately, humorously claiming she would "go crazy" if she undressed in front of others. Yu Lexuan then guided her to a private room. When Wenxi emerged in her borrowed clothes, Yu Lexuan playfully remarked on her "graceful" appearance, noting that she resembled a woman. Lei Zexin and Feng Chengjun echoed his sentiment, to Wenxi's visible discomfort.
Upon their return to the academy, Han Shengzhi approached Yu Lexuan, his tone laced with sarcasm as he inquired about Yu Lexuan's outing with the students from Room Two of Regular Dorm. Yu Lexuan smoothly reassured Han Shengzhi, explaining that he was merely employing a strategy of "winning the enemy's heart" to uncover Wenxi's weaknesses, implying it was all part of his broader scheme to expel her.
That evening, Wenxi shyly presented Feng Chengjun with a blue sachet she had purchased at the market. She explained that despite its delicate appearance, the blue color symbolized power and would aid him in achieving his ambition of becoming an official. Feng Chengjun gratefully accepted it, though his joy seemed to dim when he learned that Wenxi had also bought identical sachets for Lei Zexin and Yu Lexuan.
He then inquired if she had purchased one for herself, and if so, what color. He also asked the vendor if there was a color that specifically matched the blue sachet to symbolize a good destiny or union, and the vendor presented a red sachet. Unbeknownst to Feng Chengjun, Wenxi had indeed secretly purchased a red sachet for herself, hoping it would complement his blue one and symbolize a blossoming romantic connection between them.
Later, Yu Lexuan, wrestling with his task, concluded that the most effective way to fulfill his obligation was to gently persuade Wenxi to leave the academy of her own accord, believing it would be a beneficial outcome for both of them. He approached Wenxi, reiterating his belief that her aspirations did not align with a career as an official and that staying at Yun Shang was a waste of her potential.
He even offered to facilitate her departure without any penalties. However, Wenxi firmly rejected his proposal, declaring that she was "no longer the same Wen Bin" and that she had found a new purpose in staying and contributing to the nation, inspired by Feng Chengjun's vision for Yun. She then offered Yu Lexuan a sachet, insisting he accept it. Her unexpected sincerity deeply moved Yu Lexuan, making him momentarily reconsider his manipulative intentions.
That night, Yu Lexuan searched for Wenxi, finding her room empty. His search led him to the storage room, where he heard faint sounds from within. Unbeknownst to him, Han Shengzhi and his companions were also nearby, having heard rumors of a haunting in the storage room and were coming to investigate. Realizing Han Shengzhi's approach, Yu Lexuan quickly peered inside and discovered Wenxi, partially undressed and preparing to bathe, revealing her female form.
Stunned by this revelation, Yu Lexuan quickly warned Wenxi to conceal herself. As Han Shengzhi demanded entry, Yu Lexuan bravely entered the storage room alone and began making eerie noises, expertly feigning a ghostly presence. His performance successfully terrified Han Shengzhi and his companions, sending them fleeing in panic. After the ordeal, Wenxi returned to the dormitory, visibly shaken and filled with anxiety, wondering if Yu Lexuan had, in fact, discovered her true identity.
The next day, Wenxi cautiously approached Yu Lexuan, attempting to subtly ascertain if he was aware of her secret from the previous night's incident. Yu Lexuan maintained a facade of complete ignorance, stating that "nothing was found" in the storage room, but his movements suggested a subtle avoidance of any close physical contact with Wenxi. Later, during Mr. Ding's class, the discussion centered on the proverb "No gentleman has a petty mind, no true man is without cruelty."
Feng Chengjun offered an insightful alternative interpretation, proposing that the original saying was "no true man is without generosity," explaining how the phrase had been misinterpreted over time. Shortly thereafter, an anonymous letter was posted on the public bulletin board, alleging that a commoner student at the academy had been bribing officials to forge a noble identity. Yu Lexuan then met Han Shengzhi privately.
Han Shengzhi subtly confirmed his orchestration of the anonymous letter, emphasizing it was a calculated move to intensify the pressure on Yu Lexuan. He issued a stern warning, reminding Yu Lexuan of the severe consequences should he fail to compel Wenxi's departure, even hinting at a threat to Yu Lexuan's own identity. Under immense pressure, Yu Lexuan promised to ensure Wenxi left the academy within ten days.
Later, Lei Zexin confided in Wenxi that Yu Lexuan harbored a deep dislike for his own birthday and would become notably grumpy around that time each year. He explained that Yu Lexuan was estranged from his family, leaving him without traditional birthday celebrations. Lei Zexin suggested that Yu Lexuan might desire a house, but Wenxi, touched by his story, dismissed the idea of such a grand gift. Instead, she resolved to plan a more personal gesture to cheer him up, intending to involve Feng Chengjun in the preparations.
Episode 17 Recap
Xue Wenxi, disguised as Wen Bin, planned a birthday celebration for Yu Lexuan, noting that he always felt down on his special day. She approached Feng Chengjun for help. Lei Zexin, overhearing, playfully accused Wen Bin of only seeking Feng Chengjun's assistance when she needed something, especially to cheer up her profitable business partner, Yu Lexuan. Wen Bin insisted Feng Chengjun was like a brother to her.
Feng Chengjun intervened, emphasizing that a birthday should be joyous and they should all celebrate together. Wen Bin suggested a birthday banquet for everyone's enjoyment, which Feng Chengjun readily agreed to. Lei Zexin remarked on Feng Chengjun's preferential treatment of Wen Bin due to their sworn brotherhood, but declined the idea of joining the festivities, preferring solitude.
To surprise Yu Lexuan, Wen Bin planned to hold the party at his residence, Yu Le House, and asked Lei Zexin for the keys. Later, Wen Bin and Feng Chengjun were seen in the kitchen of Yu Le House, preparing a feast. They bantered playfully, with Wen Bin trying to prevent Feng Chengjun from sampling the dishes before the party, and Wen Bin calling Feng Chengjun "Mister" as a judge in their playful argument.
Later that evening, Lei Zexin mysteriously pulled a bewildered Yu Lexuan away from a planned outing, insisting they return to Yu Le House. Yu Lexuan complained about the sudden change of plans, as his home was not set up for entertaining. Upon entering, Yu Lexuan was met with a joyful chorus of "Happy Birthday!" from his friends. Amidst the celebration, gifts were exchanged.
Feng Chengjun presented a rare cold medicine, while others offered an amulet for good fortune and a valuable calligraphy piece by Li Shan Ren. Wen Bin's gift stood out: three unique "coupons." These coupons entitled Yu Lexuan to command her for one task, request three free story drafts, and have her run three errands. The practical and unique nature of her gift impressed everyone.
Yu Lexuan, intrigued, questioned if Wen Bin would genuinely fulfill any request, even those she was capable of but might not desire to do. Wen Bin affirmed her commitment, but Yu Lexuan, contemplating his options, decided to defer using the "command" coupon for later. As the festivities continued, Han Shengzhi, having learned about the gathering, arrived in a fit of anger, accusing Yu Lexuan of deceiving him.
He declared that Yun Shang Academy had tolerated "lowly commoners" for too long and that it was time for them to return to their rightful place. Unfazed, Yu Lexuan boldly admitted his commoner status and acknowledged masquerading as a nobleman. He then defiantly informed Han Shengzhi that he would not fulfill any of the tasks Han Shengzhi had previously demanded of him. Enraged by this insubordination, Han Shengzhi stormed out, tripping over Lei Zexin in his haste.
Later, Han Shengzhi, though still furious at Yu Lexuan's defiance, acknowledged his courage. His assistant reminded him that Yu Lexuan's skills, particularly his consistent top-three ranking in the annual worshiping ceremony, were vital for the Student Council's victory, which was a higher priority than expelling Wen Bin. Quietly, Yu Lexuan revealed to Wen Bin that Han Shengzhi's true aim was to have him expel her from the academy.
Wen Bin, understanding, expressed her deep gratitude, praising Yu Lexuan for prioritizing their friendship over personal gain. As a symbolic gesture of their bond, Yu Lexuan then used his "command" coupon to request that Wen Bin call him "big brother." After some playful resistance, Wen Bin obliged, and Yu Lexuan vowed to protect her as he would himself, viewing it as safeguarding his own hope to defy fate.
The next day, despite his simmering resentment, Han Shengzhi publicly feigned forgiveness towards Yu Lexuan, reminding him of his crucial role in the upcoming worshiping ceremony for the Student Council. In class, Mr. Ding announced a rare, century-unseen meteor shower scheduled for tomorrow night, emphasizing it would require an overnight observation in an open area. The students, excited but constrained by academy rules against overnight stays, expressed disappointment. Wen Bin nudged Feng Chengjun to propose an outing.
Feng Chengjun suggested to Mr. Ding that it would be an excellent opportunity for students to learn outside the academy. Other students eagerly supported the idea. Principal Feng, arriving during the commotion, initially dismissed the proposal, stressing the importance of studies over stargazing. However, Wen Bin boldly reiterated her strong desire to witness the phenomenon.
Seeing Feng Chengjun's evident interest, Principal Feng, swayed, eventually granted permission for all students to observe the meteor shower, framing it as a chance to enhance their cognitive abilities. Feng Chengjun then invited Wen Bin to watch the meteors from Qiuming Island, known for its superior view. Wen Bin initially hesitated, having already promised to join others at the less ideal rear hill, and noted the limited boat capacity for Qiuming Island.
Meanwhile, Han Shumin desperately sought Yu Lexuan's help to go to Qiuming Island with Feng Chengjun, even offering money. Yu Lexuan, however, firmly refused, fearing her brother Han Shengzhi's wrath should she spend the night alone with Feng Chengjun. After rejecting Han Shumin, Yu Lexuan approached Wen Bin and shared a romantic legend: wishes made with a loved one during a meteor shower are destined to come true, emphasizing the necessity of being "together."
Though Wen Bin playfully denied having a "crush," the legend evidently sparked a change of heart. She swiftly sought out Feng Chengjun, explaining her sudden change of mind by stating a rare phenomenon should be viewed from the best possible location and that she couldn't leave him to go alone. As they boarded the boat, Han Shumin arrived at the Observation Dock, only to find the boat already departing with Feng Chengjun and Wen Bin.
Realizing she had been outmaneuvered, she stamped her foot in frustration. Han Shumin attempted to bribe the boatman to return, but he refused, citing bad weather. Meanwhile, Lei Zexin continued his pursuit of Ke Shi Jun. He consulted an elder about medicinal herbs he found, which were identified as a prescription for tuberculosis, a chronic ailment requiring long-term treatment. Lei Zexin then informed Yu Lexuan that these were found near San Shen Temple, where Ke Shi Jun was last seen.
Yu Lexuan confirmed that only the medical hall in South Street could fully stock such ingredients, cautioning Lei Zexin against waiting there as Ke Shi Jun had likely fled the capital. Lei Zexin, however, remained convinced Ke Shi Jun was still within the city, given the Imperial Brigade's extensive search. On Qiuming Island, Wen Bin and Feng Chengjun made themselves comfortable by a fire.
Wen Bin questioned why no one else was there, to which Feng Chengjun responded that he preferred the tranquility of just their company. Wen Bin suggested climbing to a higher, steeper spot for a better view, but Feng Chengjun hesitated, admitting his acrophobia. Wen Bin playfully challenged him to a race to the top, which she won, teasing him for letting her win. Feng Chengjun confessed he deliberately held back due to his fear of heights.
As they settled in, Feng Chengjun expressed his happiness when with Wen Bin, prompting Wen Bin to jokingly remark on his future as a good husband. She then wistfully mused that she wished she were a girl, fearing that once he married, his kindness towards her would diminish. Feng Chengjun reassured her, affirming that his bond as sworn brothers with her would not conflict with his future marriage, and he would always fulfill his duty to be good to her.
Wen Bin then posed a profound question: would he pursue something deeply important to him even if the outcome was uncertain? Feng Chengjun affirmed he would, valuing the process over the result, particularly for ideals. For personal matters, he advised against excessive persistence, recognizing that "many things are not up to us." As the night progressed, thick clouds unfortunately obscured the sky, preventing them from seeing the meteor shower.
Unexpectedly, it also began to rain, and Feng Chengjun thoughtfully shielded Wen Bin from the downpour. Despite the disappointment, Feng Chengjun expressed that their shared conversation throughout the night was a valuable experience, emphasizing that the "process" truly mattered.
Wen Bin silently reflected that Feng Chengjun's perspective was correct; had he known her true gender from the start, they would never have had this chance to connect, and even without a guaranteed outcome, her feelings for him were still meaningful because the process itself was significant.
Episode 18 Recap
After the storm passed, the night sky cleared, and Wen Bin and Feng Chengjun watched a meteor streak across the heavens. Wen Bin excitedly made a wish, prompting Feng Chengjun to playfully tease her for behaving like a girl. Wen Bin admitted her wish—to be with Feng Chengjun forever—was likely impossible, while Feng Chengjun, in turn, wished for all of Wen Bin's own wishes to come true.
Upon their return to the mainland, they were surprised to find Han Shumin waiting by the shore. Having been there all night, she was agitated and immediately confronted Wen Bin, harshly accusing her of sabotaging her plans to watch the meteor shower with Feng Chengjun. Han Shumin scornfully reminded Wen Bin of her humble origins, asserting that even as a Yun Shang scholar, she would always be a commoner and fundamentally different from them.
Feng Chengjun intervened, clarifying that to protect Han Shumin's reputation, he would never have gone to the island alone with her anyway. Hurt and distraught, Han Shumin collapsed from exhaustion. Feng Chengjun carried her to a clinic, instructing Wen Bin to return to the academy alone. Back at the academy, a disheartened Wen Bin was approached by Yu Lexuan.
Wen Bin expressed frustration that unchangeable barriers like social standing made any further progress in her relationship with Feng Chengjun impossible, leading Yu Lexuan to realize she harbored secret feelings for him. Meanwhile, at the clinic, Feng Chengjun gently but firmly explained his perspective on partnership to a recovering Han Shumin. He stated he seeks a partner based on mutual understanding and shared aspirations, someone with an independent character, not chosen for family status or appearance.
He apologized for any misunderstanding and indirectly suggested she move on, prompting her to ask if he already had someone else in his heart. Later, Feng Chengjun asked Wen Bin if she was truly unaware that Han Shumin had also planned to go to the island. Wen Bin felt deeply hurt, taking this as a sign that Feng Chengjun believed she would resort to anything to climb the social ladder.
Feng Chengjun admitted to a momentary doubt but assured her of his trust. Still, Wen Bin declared she would no longer interfere in his personal affairs. Their ensuing cold war brought a smile to Lei Zexin’s face. On the academy's open day, students headed to a tavern. Feng Chengjun initially declined but followed after seeing Wen Bin go. At the tavern, Wen Bin, burdened by her troubles, began drinking heavily.
Seeing her distress, Feng Chengjun challenged her to a drinking contest and quickly became intoxicated himself. Wen Bin took the opportunity to ask the drunken Feng Chengjun if she resembled a woman. Holding her face, he confirmed her delicate appearance but then advised her to cultivate a broad mind, unlike a woman's perceived narrow perspective, and dedicate herself to serving the country. Realizing their relationship could never be more than that of sworn brothers, Wen Bin despaired.
As curfew struck, she tried to get the unconscious Feng Chengjun back to the academy, but he collapsed. Meanwhile, Lei Zexin tracked down Ke Shi Jun and forced a confession, learning a shocking truth: his own father, Lei Qi Ying, was the executioner who had killed Xue Ding Kun and his family. Back in town, Wen Bin managed to get Feng Chengjun into a palanquin but was stopped by academy guards who insisted on searching for alcohol.
Lei Zexin arrived, lost his temper, and assaulted the guards, drawing the attention of Mr. Li Hu, a disciplinary master. Mr. Li Hu reported the incident to the Principal. Due to their repeated violations, Wen Bin was sentenced to 20 strokes of paddling and Lei Zexin to 30. Lei Zexin offered to take Wen Bin's punishment, but Mr. Li Hu warned that the penalty would double to 40 strokes, combined with his own 30, for a fatal total of 70.
A now-sober Feng Chengjun rushed in, offering to take the punishment for Wen Bin. However, Mr. Li Hu clarified that because the penalty would double to 40 strokes and the endurance limit per person was 30, Wen Bin would still have to face the remaining 10. To everyone's surprise, Yu Lexuan stepped forward and volunteered to take the final 10 strokes, stating it was to repay Wen Bin for his birthday celebration. He declared that with their debt paid, he could follow the Dean of Discipline's orders with a clear conscience.
Episode 19 Recap
Following an incident that violated school rules, Feng Chengjun and Yu Le Xuan endured a severe caning on behalf of Xue Wenxi, who was disguised as Wen Bin, while Lei Zexin was also harshly punished for his role in a fight. Xue Wenxi, who received only ten strokes on her hand, watched her friends suffer with immense guilt. Yu Le Xuan cried out in pain over his ten strokes, while Lei Zexin stoically bore his thirty.
Deeply grateful, Xue Wenxi offered to apply their medication, but knowing she faints at the sight of blood, Yu Le Xuan tended to their wounds instead. Vowing to repay their kindness, Xue Wenxi took over all their chores, allowing them to rest and recover. Days later, exhausted from the extra work, Xue Wenxi catches a cold in the rain and collapses in class with a high fever.
Her concerned classmates alert Mr. Ding, who bypasses the academy doctor and moves her to a private room for treatment. While checking her pulse, he is stunned to discover that Wen Bin is a woman. When Xue Wenxi awakens, Mr. Ding confronts her. Realizing her secret is out, she confesses her real name is Wenxi and explains the life-or-death situation that forced her into the disguise, pleading with him not to expose her.
Though angry, Mr. Ding understands and warns her of the grave danger her identity poses to her family. He instructs her to act cautiously while he finds a suitable opportunity to discreetly expel her. Later, a suspicious Yu Le Xuan questions Mr. Ding about Wen Bin’s unrecorded treatment, but he is curtly dismissed. Meanwhile, at home, Xue Wenxi's mother sews a new dress, lamenting that her daughter hasn't worn girl's clothes in half a year.
Back at the academy, Principal Feng announces that the esteemed Master Wang will host this year's Archery Ceremony. Determined to impress him and secure a court recommendation, the Principal demands perfection. Fearing Xue Wenxi will be exposed under Master Wang’s scrutiny, Mr. Ding fabricates a medical report and urges her to take a leave of absence.
Feng Chengjun sees the ceremony notice and is thrilled to learn the winning team will receive one hundred nobility marks and a prize of one thousand qian. He shares the news with his friends, but Xue Wenxi remains disheartened, anxious about her impending departure and her lack of archery skills. Despite her reservations, Xue Wenxi joins her friends to practice archery, but she lacks the strength to draw the bow.
Feng Chengjun patiently guides her, and as he gives her close instruction, she feels a mix of reluctance to leave and distress over her concealed identity, believing she can't give him false hope. Overwhelmed, she turns and walks away. Feng Chengjun follows, but as he passes a large wooden rack, it collapses—a trap set by Han Shengzhi's subordinates—and severely injures his right arm.
Though gravely injured, Feng Chengjun remains undeterred and declares he will learn to shoot with his left hand. Principal Feng rushes to his side, urging him to rest, but Feng Chengjun is resolute and begins to practice relentlessly. While Han Shengzhi mocks the effort as futile, Feng Chengjun miraculously hits the bullseye with his left hand, a feat he shows Xue Wenxi to inspire her.
For the first time, Lei Zexin explicitly supports Feng Chengjun's perspective, telling Xue Wenxi she no longer has an excuse to quit. He passionately reminds her that while they cannot choose their origins, they can choose their future, and that he will always support her. Motivated by their words, Xue Wenxi resolves to stay at the academy and compete.
Episode 20 Recap
Xue Wenxi firmly declared her decision not to leave the academy, explaining that she had taken the entrance exam and was the "Wen Bin" recognized by Master Wang and all the other scholars. Despite Mr. Ding's grave warning that her remaining in the academy, if her true identity were exposed, would lead to her death, Wenxi remained steadfast. She argued that learning was for the sake of the common people, questioning why women should be excluded from contributing.
While acknowledging Yun Shang Academy’s traditional role in preparing men for official positions, Wenxi insisted that her performance since entering the academy was on par with, and often surpassed, that of her male counterparts. Mr. Ding, recalling Xue Ding Kun’s defiance in the face of death, was deeply moved.
Wenxi declared her determination to prove that women were capable of achieving anything men could, asserting her desire to participate in the upcoming archery ceremony not for herself, but to advocate for fairness for all women. Mr. Ding, acknowledging her courage, set a condition: if she wanted to be recognized as Wen Bin and remain in the academy, she must excel in all aspects and win the archery ceremony to avoid suspicion.
He warned her that any mistake could doom not only her but also him and her family. Wenxi vowed to win, and Mr. Ding agreed to conceal her identity, reiterating that failure to win the championship would result in her expulsion. The next day, Wenxi began rigorous training for the archery ceremony, joining Feng Chengjun's team.
Her efforts were initially met with sneers from Han Shengzhi, who ridiculed her archery skills, suggesting her arrows were like feathers and that she would only hinder her teammates. Despite the mockery, Wenxi persevered, diligently practicing to improve her strength and accuracy, eventually succeeding in hitting the target, much to the delight of her teammates. Meanwhile, Lei Zexin continued his relentless investigation into the events of eighteen years prior.
He overheard a late-night conversation between his father, Lord Lei, and Mr. Ding. Mr. Ding had come to inquire about the fate of Xue Ding Kun’s family. Lord Lei, hesitant to speak of the past, mentioned that he had followed Lord Feng’s orders to eliminate all those he was told to, implying the command had passed through several individuals, possibly originating from Han Bie Jia.
Lord Lei disclosed that his own son, Lei Ze Xun, had been a victim of the incident, and that Xue Ding Kun’s actions had significantly disrupted the interests of powerful aristocrats, confirming that noble factions were behind the tragedy. Mr. Ding pressed on, questioning how Lord Lei could have harmed Xue Ding Kun’s pregnant wife. Lord Lei claimed he had no choice but to ensure the safety of his own family and eldest son.
Mr. Ding, sensing Lord Lei had perhaps shown mercy, thanked him for his honesty. He also learned that Mu Jiang, a trusted benefactor, had provided a timely warning that had saved Lei's family and extended Ze Xun's life, though Mu Jiang and his family were later unjustly imprisoned.
Fueled by his father's words and the desire for justice for his own parents, Lei Zexin spent the night creating and distributing papers across the city, calling for vindication for Mu Jiang and condemning the aristocrats, causing widespread discussion. Upon his return to the academy, Lei Zexin found Wenxi's team celebrating her progress. Wenxi invited him to join their team for the archery ceremony.
However, still deeply affected by his father's conversation and the implied involvement of Feng Chengjun's father, Lei Zexin harbored a strong prejudice against Feng Chengjun and refused aggressively, stating his disinterest in becoming an official like them. Later, Wenxi's hand was injured from practice, and Lei Zexin, despite his outward defiance, carefully bandaged her hand while she slept.
When Wenxi awoke and realized his kind act, she persisted in urging him to join, emphasizing that their team needed him to even qualify for the competition. After much internal struggle, influenced by past advice from his brother and Wenxi's persistent pleas, Lei Zexin finally agreed to join Feng Chengjun and Wenxi’s team.
Their decision surprised the instructors, who noted Lei Zexin’s exceptional archery skills and expressed their anticipation for the ceremony, remarking that the once rebellious Lei Zexin was finally heading down the right path. Meanwhile, Han Shengzhi’s father expressed concerns that Feng Chengjun might usurp Han Shengzhi's position as student president. Han Shumin, Han Shengzhi's sister, reassured her father, stating that Feng Chengjun was solely devoted to his studies and had no interest in the Student Council's affairs.
She then suggested that her father take action to support Shengzhi, whom she described as self-centered and lacking in interpersonal skills. Later, Han Shumin personally brought an assortment of delicious food to Yun Shang Academy, claiming it was a special treat from her brother, Han Shengzhi, to acknowledge the scholars' hard work for the archery ceremony. She overtly flirted with Feng Chengjun, offering him a special, separate box of food. Wenxi observed this interaction, while Lei Zexin and Wenxi decided to refuse the food offered by Han Shengzhi, demonstrating their disdain.
Episode 21 Recap
Han Shumin visited Yun Shang Academy, bringing an abundance of food for the scholars. She gently advised her brother, Han Shengzhi, who served as the academy president, that relationships were reciprocal. If he could genuinely care for his fellow scholars, they would undoubtedly return his sincerity. Han Shengzhi, while appreciative of his sister, urged her to leave quickly, noting the presence of many men in the academy and wishing to avoid gossip.
Inside the academy, Bing Shen drank in frustration, lamenting his lack of archery skill and expressing jealousy over Wenxi's rapid progress. He delusionally claimed that while Wenxi only occasionally hit the bullseye, he himself only occasionally missed it. With the Grand Archery Ceremony scheduled for the following day, Lei Zexin's absence from Room Two caused Xue Wenxi considerable worry. Meanwhile, Lei Zexin was still out in the city, distributing the Book of 10 Thousand Words.
He was cornered by the Imperial Brigade, who managed to stab him in the abdomen. Just as they were about to unmask him, a mysterious figure in black appeared, threatening to kill the Imperial Brigade if they moved, thus allowing Lei Zexin to escape. The Imperial Brigade pursued Lei Zexin as he fled towards Yun Shang Academy. However, they were forced to stop at the academy's boundary, acknowledging that unauthorized entry was forbidden.
A wounded Lei Zexin stumbled into the academy, where he encountered Principal Feng and Mr. Ding. His pale face and unsteady gait immediately caught Principal Feng's attention, who remarked on Lei Zexin's usual strength and threatened to deduct a thousand nobility points for drinking before the ceremony. Mr. Ding quickly intervened, covering for Lei Zexin by claiming he had been drinking heavily within the academy.
After Lei Zexin returned to the small courtyard within the academy grounds, he collapsed from his injuries. Shortly after, Mr. Ding quietly arrived, bandaged Lei Zexin's wound, and then slipped away unnoticed. Elsewhere, Imperial Brigade officers, led by Gu Zhen Yuan, discussed their pursuit. Gu Zhen Yuan's subordinate confirmed that only one person was distributing the Book of 10 Thousand Words, and the mysterious black-clad figure appeared to be unrelated, possibly having a different agenda.
They suspected the injured individual was a scholar from Yun Shang Academy due to his escape into the academy grounds. Gu Zhen Yuan planned to seize the opportunity of the Grand Archery Ceremony to enter Yun Shang Academy with Master Wang, searching for the injured scholar among the participants. They deduced that if the culprit was a scholar, drawing a bow with force would reveal his wound.
The next morning, Lei Zexin was still nowhere to be found, much to the dismay of Wenxi and Feng Chengjun. Yu Lexuan approached Principal Feng and Mr. Liu, inquiring about Lei Zexin's whereabouts. Principal Feng adamantly stated he had seen Lei Zexin drinking in the small courtyard the previous night, expressing surprise that he was now missing. Hearing this, Yu Lexuan immediately went to the small courtyard to search for him, fearing their team would be disqualified.
As the Grand Archery Ceremony was about to commence, Master Wang arrived, accompanied by Lord Han (Han Shengzhi's father) and Gu Zhen Yuan, along with the Imperial Brigade. Lord Han explained that he and Gu Zhen Yuan wished to watch their sons compete. Meanwhile, the Imperial Brigade officers, under Gu Zhen Yuan's command, had already conducted preliminary checks on other scholars and staff, clearing them of suspicion. However, Lei Zexin remained the only scholar unaccounted for and not yet investigated.
The ceremony officially began, with Han Shengzhi's team taking the first turn. Han Shengzhi demonstrated exceptional skill, hitting three consecutive bullseyes, earning widespread praise. Wenxi sighed, knowing that without Lei Zexin, their team's chances of winning the championship seemed slim. Meanwhile, Lei Zexin awoke in the small courtyard, realizing the ceremony was underway. As he struggled to leave, he was intercepted by Imperial Brigade officers who attempted to check his abdomen for a wound.
Mr. Ding and Mr. Liu arrived just in time, forcefully intervening. They declared that searching a scholar in such a manner was an insult to the scholars of Yun and an act of disrespect to His Majesty. They further asserted that Lei Zexin had been drinking in the academy all night and could not have been involved in the incident.
Faced with the accusation of disrespect and the threat of Master Wang's judgment, Gu Zhen Yuan backed down and withdrew his men. Mr. Ding then tried to dissuade Lei Zexin from participating in the ceremony, warning that his severe injury would be exposed when he drew the bow, not only failing to help Wenxi but also putting his life at risk.
However, Lei Zexin was resolute, stating that he had promised Wenxi he would compete and that there were things more important than life, such as the hope that Wenxi and Feng Chengjun had instilled in him. He declared he would participate, even if it meant his demise, to ensure their hope endured.
Episode 22 Recap
The final contestant for the first team, Lin Bing Shen, stepped forward for the preliminary round of the Grand Archery Ceremony. He struggled, scoring seven points with his first two arrows, and a disappointing six points with his third. Master Wang sarcastically remarked to Attendant Officer Han that his son, Han Shengzhi, displayed great open-mindedness by including such a weak archer on his team.
As Team Two prepared to enter, Feng Chengjun and Wen Bin looked concerned, as their teammate Lei Zexin was still missing. Han Shengzhi, seeing their anxiety, mockingly advised them against choosing teammates who would desert them. Just then, Lei Zexin dramatically appeared, much to Wen Bin's relief and joy. Feng Chengjun and Wen Bin quickly guided him into position.
Attendant Officer Han, who had suspected Lei Zexin of releasing the "Book of Ten Thousand Words" and intended to arrest him, was astonished by his appearance. He ordered his subordinates to watch closely, vowing to arrest Lei Zexin if he couldn't even draw his bow, as that would confirm his guilt. Master Wang, a distinguished guest, encouraged all the archers to perform their best. Feng Chengjun was the first to shoot for Team Two.
He expertly fired three consecutive arrows, each hitting the bullseye for a perfect ten points. Spectators were amazed to see him using his left hand, and Principal Feng explained to Master Wang that Feng Chengjun had injured his right arm and endured significant hardship to train his left. Next, a visibly struggling Lei Zexin stepped up. His first shot was a miss, scoring zero. With immense effort, he managed to score nine points with his second arrow.
As he attempted his third shot, his hands trembled violently, and he strained so hard that the bowstring snapped, sending him tumbling to the ground. Attendant Officer Han's men immediately moved to check his injury, but Lei Zexin, gritting his teeth, refused to be examined. He declared that hope was more important than his own life, a lesson he learned from Wen Bin and Feng Chengjun, and he wouldn't let them or himself down.
He quickly retrieved a new bow and, with a final burst of strength, hit the bullseye for a perfect ten. Following Lei Zexin, Yu Lexuan and Lu Zhaorong, the third and fourth members of their team, also achieved good scores. Wei Zhaohui, a strong archer on the opposing side, also earned a perfect thirty points. Finally, it was Wen Bin's turn. She delivered a stunning performance, hitting all three arrows for full marks, to the resounding cheers of the crowd.
Wen Bin's mother, who had placed a bet on her daughter's victory, shed tears of joy. During a break, Mu Xiao Man arrived to perform for the scholars. She was initially stopped by a guard due to Master Wang's presence, but her attendants advocated for her, and she had also sent a message to Yu Lexuan. Han Shengzhi attempted to gain her attention, inviting her to a prepared resting place with luxurious food.
However, Mu Xiao Man largely ignored him, instead walking over to speak warmly with Wen Bin. She mentioned sending Wen Bin a letter after a prior encounter, assuring him she wouldn't force their relationship. Wen Bin, surprised, stated he had never received such a letter. Han Shengzhi was visibly annoyed by Mu Xiao Man's clear preference for Wen Bin. The preliminary rounds concluded, with Han Shengzhi's team and Feng Chengjun's team advancing to the finals.
After the preliminary round, Mr Ding discreetly pulled Lei Zexin aside to treat his fever and injuries. He sternly warned Lei Zexin not to participate in the finals, emphasizing the importance of not exposing his true identity or the academy's secrets to Attendant Officer Han, who had grown suspicious. Mr Ding urged Lei Zexin to prioritize Yun's future, much like Feng Chengjun and Wen Bin.
Meanwhile, Attendant Officer Han received news that the "Book of Ten Thousand Words" incident was not traced back to any scholar from Yun Shang Academy, relieving him of potential conflict with Master Wang. The format for the Grand Archery Ceremony finals was revealed: targets would be moving, and each archer would have only one arrow. Teams would face off in five one-on-one matches determined by a draw, with the team winning the most matches being crowned champion.
The pairings for the finals were announced: Feng Chengjun would face Han Shengxiong, Yu Lexuan would compete against Wei Zhaohui, Lei Zexin was drawn against Gu Ziming, Lu Zhaorong against Lin Bing Shen, and Wen Bin against Han Shengzhi. Many observers commented on Wen Bin's bad luck in drawing Han Shengzhi, though she remained confident. Despite Feng Chengjun's left-handed shooting and the challenging distance, he asserted he would win against Han Shengxiong, a consistent top scorer.
Yu Lexuan, a strong archer from the previous year, would face Wei Zhaohui. Lei Zexin's match against Gu Ziming was deemed uncertain due to Lei Zexin's lack of prior experience in the ceremony, despite his recent ten-point shot. The match between Lu Zhaorong and Lin Bing Shen was also considered unpredictable, as Lu Zhaorong had shown significant improvement in Feng Chengjun's team. Mr Ding, however, expressed doubt that Wen Bin could defeat Han Shengzhi. The finals commenced.
Han Shengxiong, a formidable archer, scored nine points with his single arrow. Next, Feng Chengjun stepped up. He calmly released his arrow, hitting the bullseye for a perfect ten points, securing the first win for his team. Han Shengxiong apologized to Han Shengzhi for his loss, acknowledging Feng Chengjun's superior skill. Han Shengzhi, undeterred, encouraged Wei Zhaohui, the next archer for his team, to secure a victory. Wei Zhaohui promised to win and then successfully scored eight points with his shot. Yu Lexuan was next to compete.
Episode 23 Recap
Following Feng Chengjun's perfect score of ten in the previous round, the Grand Archery Ceremony's final round continued. Yu Lexuan from Han Shengzhi's team skillfully scored an impressive nine points, securing the second round for his team and leveling the overall score at one all, making Wenxi's team anxious. An observer remarked on Han Shengzhi's discerning eye for talent, noting his selection of members like Han Shengxiong and Yu Lexuan.
They also added that if he could have recruited Feng Chengjun, victory would have been certain, but a close match made the ceremony truly exciting. Gu Ziming then contributed six points to Han Shengzhi's team. However, when it was Lei Zexin's turn, despite aiming true, he regrettably scored zero points. Due to physical discomfort from his injury and a lack of strength, his arrow did not hit the target with sufficient power to stick.
This unexpected outcome shocked many, who now believed Feng Chengjun's team was certain to lose. The competition then moved to the fourth round, featuring Lin Bingshen against Lu Zhaorong. Despite his earlier boasts, Lin Bingshen displayed poor archery skills, scoring only five points, which led observers to question how he was even selected for the team. Lu Zhaorong, conversely, confidently scored six points, once again leveling the overall score at two all.
This set the stage for the climactic fifth round, the deciding match between Han Shengzhi and Wenxi. Spectators buzzed with anticipation, offering words of encouragement to Wenxi while also expressing concern about her chances against such a formidable opponent, despite her diligent training. As Han Shengzhi took his turn, Mu Xiaoman suddenly appeared, loudly cheering for Wenxi.
Attendant Officer Han, Han Shengzhi's father, angrily ordered Gu Zheyuan to remove her, despite Mu Xiaoman's protestations that she was invited by Han Shengzhi and other scholars to perform. This interruption visibly affected Han Shengzhi, causing him to become distracted. His arrow went off target, resulting in a surprisingly low score of six points. This unexpected turn of events ignited a fresh wave of hope among Wenxi's supporters, who now believed Wenxi, with her known skill, could surpass this score.
When Wenxi finally stepped up to shoot, she met with misfortune. As she pulled the bowstring, it severely cut her hand, causing it to bleed profusely and making it difficult for her to exert the necessary force. Feng Chengjun quickly realized that the bow had been tampered with, immediately suspecting Han Shengzhi's faction. Enraged, he moved to report the foul play to Master Wang.
However, Mr. Ding intervened, cautioning Feng Chengjun that exposing the sabotage would lead to the expulsion of Han Shengzhi and his accomplices, ruining their lives and severely damaging the academy's reputation. After Mr. Ding's earnest plea, Feng Chengjun and Wenxi decided against reporting the incident. Despite her injury, Wenxi, showing remarkable resolve, refused to give up.
Feng Chengjun encouraged her, telling her not to lose faith even if she hit a dead end, and reminding her that he was there for her. With her hand bandaged, Wenxi returned to the firing line, showing incredible courage. She drew the bow and released her arrow, hitting the bullseye for a perfect ten points. The crowd erupted, celebrating Feng Chengjun's team as the undisputed champions of the archery ceremony.
Following the victory, Mr. Ding praised Wenxi, acknowledging that she had won herself a new lease on life and decided to let her remain at the academy, urging her to always remember her ideals and ambitions, working diligently to achieve them. Later, Master Wang inquired about Wenxi's hand injury. She quickly claimed it was an old wound that had reopened, and Master Wang, satisfied with her answer, commended her bravery and remarkable achievement.
He also extended praise to Lei Zexin for his improved appearance and urged him to become a true scholar. Master Wang expressed his immense satisfaction with the dedication shown by all participants, especially Wenxi and Feng Chengjun, who had truly performed a miracle, hoping their perseverance would inspire others. As a reward, he announced that each member of the winning team would receive 100 nobility marks and a thousand mace.
Meanwhile, Han Shengzhi faced his furious father, Attendant Officer Han, who slapped him as a harsh reminder. His father berated him for being distracted by Mu Xiaoman, leading to his defeat. He scorned Han Shengzhi for not being a "real man" and failing to be the strongest in Yun Shang Academy.
Han Shengzhi protested that he had acted to secure their victory, but his father dismissed this, pointing out that if Wenxi had not kept quiet, Han Shengzhi and his accomplices would have faced expulsion. His father further chastised him for choosing "idiots" as teammates and ordered him to find a way to expel Feng Chengjun and Wenxi from the academy, warning that Yun Shang Academy would otherwise "change" for the worse.
He threatened Han Shengzhi with a permanent stay at the academy, never taking up an official post, if he ever shamed him before Master Wang again. Separately, Mr. Ding discreetly informed Master Wang that Lei Zexin had been attempting to redress injustice for his brother, Lei Zexun, by secretly distributing materials.
Surprised, Master Wang instructed Mr. Ding to warn Lei Zexin to cease such dangerous actions, emphasizing that his primary focus should be on his studies to secure an official position. Master Wang also inquired about Wenxi's family background, asking Mr. Ding to investigate it. Despite the pain from her bandaged hand, Wenxi was overjoyed, finding the thousand mace reward well worth the discomfort.
Meanwhile, Lin Bingshen sought out Han Shengzhi, tearfully confessing that he was the one who tampered with Wenxi's bow, explaining that he did it to ensure Han Shengzhi's victory. Han Shengzhi, however, was enraged by this admission, furious that Lin Bingshen's actions ultimately contributed to his humiliating defeat, and he aggressively drove Lin Bingshen away, vowing never to see him again.
Separately, Yu Lexuan, happy for Wenxi's victory, arranged a celebratory banquet at Yu Le House on South Street, inviting the winning team to unwind. Wenxi declined due to her injured hand, and Feng Chengjun chose to stay with her to care for her, despite other teammates urging them both to attend. During the discussion, it was revealed that Attendant Officer Han had expelled Mu Xiaoman, preventing her planned performance at the academy, which saddened many who had anticipated it.
Sympathetic to Mu Xiaoman's dashed performance, Wenxi went to visit her. She expressed regret that Mu Xiaoman's status led to her humiliation, but Mu Xiaoman dismissed the apology, stating her focus had shifted to more important matters beyond relationships, accepting her fate. Wenxi affirmed that everyone is equal and expressed hope for a future without discrimination, praising Mu Xiaoman's virtues. Upon her return, Wenxi encountered a heavily inebriated Lin Bingshen.
Still bitter about his own poor performance and humiliation, he lashed out at Wenxi, irrationally blaming her for his misfortunes and accusing her of risking her life just to show off. He even taunted her by admitting again that he was the one who tampered with the bow. Wenxi, however, sternly rebuked him.
She called him a "shameless disgrace to Yun Shang Academy" and questioned his integrity, criticizing him for constantly hiding behind Han Shengzhi's authority to engage in "cowardly and despicable" acts. She challenged him to act like a real man, with integrity, suggesting he could never become a good official if he continued such behavior. Stung by her words, Lin Bingshen began to cry, but Wenxi, tired of his self-pity, left him there to head to the woodshed for a bath.
Episode 24 Recap
Wenxi, disguised as Wen Bin, was about to bathe in the woodshed, unknowingly where Lei Zexin was hiding. Lei Zexin wondered why Wen Bin was bathing there. Mr Ding then arrived, expressing shock and disapproval upon finding Wen Bin in the woodshed, which he knew was Lei Zexin's hiding place and not a proper bathing area. Wen Bin, feigning a fall on a slippery road, claimed he needed to clean up to avoid being teased.
Mr Ding sternly dismissed Wen Bin, giving him the key to Ming Lun Hall and instructing him to bathe there instead. After Wen Bin left, Mr Ding entered to check on Lei Zexin. Lei Zexin showed Mr Ding a mysterious note addressed to "Ke Shi Jun, Qin Bei Chuan," asking if Mr Ding had given it to him.
Mr Ding denied writing it, realizing with alarm that someone knew Lei Zexin's true identity, making it difficult to find "Ke Shi Jun." Lei Zexin recounted fighting the sender, who carried a teacher's tag and was highly skilled, leading him to suspect Mr Liu. Mr Ding dismissed the possibility of his master, Mr Liu, being the culprit. Mr Ding reassured Lei Zexin, promising to investigate the masked teacher himself and instructing Lei Zexin to stay out of it.
He also briefly conversed with Lei Zexin's senior, discussing Lei Zexin's recent improvement due to Feng Chengjun and Wenxi's influence, and asking the senior to continue watching over Lei Zexin. Wenxi, back in Room Two of Regular Dorm, observed Feng Chengjun returning from Yu Lexuan's party in high spirits. Wenxi initially teased Feng Chengjun, speculating if his joy stemmed from a romantic encounter or meeting Han Shumin, even sarcastically remarking on his "cloud-like" happiness.
Feng Chengjun, however, stated he would not pursue romantic relationships before becoming an official, prompting Wenxi to further playfully suggest he was merely laying the groundwork for a future relationship. When Feng Chengjun then asked for her advice should he find someone he liked, a jealous Wenxi accused him of being a womanizer, noting Han Shumin's deep affection for him while he seemingly entertained thoughts of others. Feng Chengjun directly questioned Wenxi if she truly believed he fancied Han Shumin.
Unable to answer, Wenxi feigned sleep. Feng Chengjun, still beaming, then revealed the true source of his happiness: he had performed a children's rhyme about the Laba Festival and New Year celebrations at the party, delighting everyone, and wanted to share that joy with Wenxi by singing it to her. Realizing Feng Chengjun's genuine desire to make her happy, Wenxi's heart warmed, deepening her affection for him.
Mr Ding summoned Wenxi, informing her of his decision that she must leave the academy. Wenxi questioned his change of heart, to which Mr Ding revealed that Master Wang was unusually interested in her background and wished to know more about her, making her situation precarious. To ensure her safety, Mr Ding advised Wenxi to take advantage of the upcoming family visit holidays and simply not return to the academy afterward, promising to manage the aftermath.
Wenxi reluctantly agreed, comforting herself with the thought that leaving the academy would allow her to finally resume her identity as a girl and openly pursue her feelings for Feng Chengjun. Around this time, Lin Bing Shen sought out Han Sheng Zhi to apologize again. Han Sheng Zhi, still smarting from their loss in the archery ceremony, told Lin Bing Shen that true repentance would involve finding a way to make Feng Chengjun and Wenxi genuinely respect him.
Yu Lexuan tried to get Feng Chengjun to write calligraphy for him, which Wenxi teased was for selling. Lei Zexin also returned to the academy, playfully challenging Wenxi, but Yu Lexuan deflected it to a drinking contest. Wenxi intervened, protecting Feng Chengjun's low alcohol tolerance, which led Lei Zexin to playfully accuse her of always siding with outsiders. All three then affirmed they were "buddies."
Later, they observed officials enforcing harsh debt collection, prompting Feng Chengjun and Wenxi to express a shared aspiration to become officials and change such injustices. Yu Lexuan also shared his recent business losses due to the widespread locust plague and its impact on the impoverished. As the academy's family visit holiday approached, students prepared to depart. Wenxi was moved when Feng Chengjun, Lei Zexin, Yu Lexuan, and other classmates brought her various gifts and, more significantly, precious medicinal herbs.
They explained that academy rules allowed them to collect these herbs for needy students and insisted she take them for her sick family, having registered them under her name. Principal Feng was greatly pleased by this display of student unity and generosity, considering it a positive sign that would delight Master Wang. In an unexpected turn, Han Sheng Zhi led his entire team, including Lin Bing Shen, to publicly apologize to Wenxi for the archery ceremony.
He also presented a large quantity of food, claiming it was surplus from the superior rooms that would otherwise be discarded, emphasizing that it was better used than wasted, recalling Wenxi's own past remarks about respecting people's hard work. Lei Zexin, perceiving this act as demeaning charity, angrily moved to confront Han Sheng Zhi, but Wenxi calmly accepted the provisions, understanding the underlying dynamics.
When Lei Zexin later questioned her dignity for accepting such "charity," Wenxi explained her pragmatic reasoning: the food would feed poor families for days, and the donated herbs would allow her to continue her medical studies and offer assistance to the sick and needy in the Western District. Impressed by her compassion and wisdom, Feng Chengjun and Lei Zexin both enthusiastically volunteered to help her in her humanitarian efforts, along with Yu Lexuan.
They then ventured out to the Western District, providing medicine and aid to the common folk, earning them the moniker "Yunshang Four Scholars" from the villagers. With the academy holidays officially underway, all scholars departed for their homes. Wenxi, laden with gifts and provisions, also returned to her family. Her mother, eagerly awaiting her, presented her with a beautiful new dress. Wenxi, delighted, changed into it, fully restoring her feminine appearance.
Her younger brother expressed his admiration for her friendships with Feng Chengjun, Lei Zexin, and Yu Lexuan, though he noted the hardship of maintaining her male disguise. Wenxi reassured him that she had become adept at it, and no one had suspected her true identity. She shared amusing anecdotes from the academy and spoke about her friends, including how Yu Lexuan's humor and business acumen initially made her fear being discovered, but she felt confident he hadn't.
She described Lei Zexin as protective and caring despite his outwardly willful nature, noting a hint of unspoken worries beneath his demeanor. When asked about Feng Chengjun, Wenxi became shy, prompting her brother to conclude that Feng Chengjun was clearly the closest to her. Each mention of Feng Chengjun's name filled Wenxi with immense happiness. Back at the academy, Principal Feng discovered the lingzhi powder, intended as tribute for the imperial court, had gone missing from its designated spot.
He was certain he had placed it there himself and was distraught by its disappearance. Mr Ding, upon learning this and realizing its gravity, immediately rushed to Wenxi's home. He urgently instructed her to change back into her male attire and accompany him back to the academy, explaining that Wenxi's student tag had been found at the scene of the theft.
Wenxi explained she had left her tag in a prominent place at the academy for retrieval after her planned departure, unaware of the theft. Mr Ding, while believing her, stressed the need to return immediately to avoid a more severe charge of deceit if her true identity were discovered during a home search. At the academy, Han Sheng Zhi presented Wenxi's student tag, found at the site of the missing lingzhi powder, accusing her of the theft.
Despite Wenxi's denials and pleas for justice, Han Sheng Zhi dismissed her explanations as unconvincing. Feng Chengjun quickly came to Wenxi's defense, asserting she had been framed and pointing out the lack of concrete evidence linking her to the crime. Han Sheng Zhi then presented an eyewitness account: a guard had seen Wenxi leaving Fu Ze Hall alone late on the night she went home.
Wenxi admitted to being there early to collect registered herbs, but Han Sheng Zhi dismissed her explanation, and Feng Chengjun's corroboration, as biased due to their close friendship. When asked where the herbs were, Wenxi stated she had taken them home. Principal Feng then proposed searching Wenxi's house to verify her story. Desperate to prevent a search that would expose her identity and distress her mother, Wenxi reluctantly and falsely confessed to having sold the lingzhi powder, accepting any punishment.
Feng Chengjun was visibly confused by her confession. Just then, Master Wang arrived, demanding to know how much Wenxi had received for the "stolen tribute." Wenxi confessed that she didn't even know what lingzhi powder looked like, reiterating that her confession was a desperate attempt to protect her mother from worry. Master Wang, acknowledging her filial piety, agreed with Feng Chengjun that despite the circumstantial evidence, the case had many questionable points.
He rejected Mr Liu's suggestion to involve the authorities, fearing it would bring shame to the academy. Instead, Master Wang instructed them to investigate the truth themselves. He appointed Han Sheng Zhi as a supervisor to find more direct evidence against Wenxi, while also giving Wenxi, Feng Chengjun, Yu Lexuan, and Lei Zexin two days to find clues to prove Wenxi's innocence. He warned that failure would result in Wenxi's expulsion and the others being punished for complicity, but promised severe punishment for the true culprit if identified.
Episode 25 Recap
Xue Wenxi blamed herself for the trouble, but Feng Chengjun comforted her, stating that no one could have predicted such an incident. He added that Master Wang's wisdom had given them a chance to clear their names, despite the challenging two-day deadline. Believing the incident was orchestrated by Han Shengzhi's group, Lei Zexin expressed his anger and, along with Yu Lexuan, decided to confront them.
Han Shengzhi, who had learned that if Wen Bin (Xue Wenxi in her male disguise) couldn't prove her innocence, she and Feng Chengjun, along with Lei Zexin and Yu Lexuan, would face severe punishment, was quite pleased. When Lei Zexin arrived to confront Lin Bingshen and Han Shengzhi, he accused them of conspiracy. Lin Bingshen mocked him, suggesting he had spent too much time with Wen Bin and learned to be imaginative.
Han Shengzhi, unafraid, asked Lei Zexin if he truly wished to be expelled. Lei Zexin was ready to fight, but Yu Lexuan intervened, reminding him that they still needed to uncover the truth and pulling him away from the confrontation. Lin Bingshen wore a smug expression as they left. The next day, Xue Wenxi and Feng Chengjun began their investigation.
While Lei Zexin and Yu Lexuan initially bickered about appropriate attire for undercover work, Yu Lexuan, proving his resourcefulness, shared that he had successfully purchased a jar of lingzhi powder from a black market alley at the end of South Street. Lei Zexin confirmed that all official medical halls and pharmacies in the area had yielded no results, leading them to believe the thief hadn't yet sold the stolen goods widely.
The group realized they still didn't know the exact quantity of lingzhi powder stolen from the academy. Meanwhile, Han Shengzhi was also looking into the lingzhi powder's whereabouts, hoping that Xue Wenxi would fail to find the stolen items, thus solidifying her guilt. However, in a conversation with Han Shengzhi, Lin Bingshen inadvertently revealed that there had originally been seven packs of lingzhi powder in the academy's Fu Ze Hall.
He confessed to taking one of the packs himself and deliberately leaving Xue Wenxi's student badge at the scene to frame her. Enraged by Lin Bingshen's blunders, Han Shengzhi, now having no other option, resigned himself to continuing with the fabricated narrative. Deciding to seek official assistance, Xue Wenxi and Feng Chengjun approached the Yunzhou Southern County Government's Office.
As temporary Investigating Censors, they presented their findings to the county magistrate, explaining that they had evidence of multiple stalls selling stolen goods in a South Street alley and requested his help in a mass apprehension to prevent the culprits from alerting each other. The magistrate initially dismissed them, claiming they were too inexperienced to dictate how he should conduct his duties, and suggested they follow formal procedures like beating the drum to file a case.
However, Feng Chengjun firmly reminded the magistrate of their duties as Yun officials, citing the State Code of Yun and warning that he would report any dereliction of duty. Seemingly annoyed, the magistrate excused himself to attend to an urgent matter, leaving them waiting. It was soon revealed that Han Shengzhi had arrived to inquire about the stolen herbs, secretly instructing the magistrate to feign cooperation and then cause chaos by indiscriminately smashing innocent vendors' stalls.
During the raid, the magistrate's officers not only arrested stall owners but also indiscriminately smashed their goods. Xue Wenxi protested, calling it no different from banditry, but Feng Chengjun pulled her away, acknowledging their misjudgment. The magistrate, feigning impartiality, declared his actions were "enforcing the law in an impartial way" and challenged them to report him if they dared.
The events unfolded in a way that taught the young and inexperienced students a harsh but valuable lesson, which Master Wang hoped they would never forget. Realizing her own naivety after the chaotic raid, Xue Wenxi expressed regret. Lei Zexin then revealed he had observed a suspicious individual who seemed to anticipate the officers' actions and hid just before the raid. He quickly drew a portrait of the man.
The Four Gentlemen of Yun Shang diligently searched and eventually found the man, named Amu, being confronted by his younger siblings. Amu confessed to stealing the academy's herbs, explaining that his mother had been ill for a year, enduring great suffering due to the exorbitant cost of medicine and doctor's visits. Now that his mother had passed away, he couldn't even afford a coffin and had no other choice but to steal to secure money for her burial.
He bitterly questioned if the poor were undeserving of human dignity. Witnessing Amu's plight, Xue Wenxi was deeply moved. Despite Feng Chengjun's arguments against sacrificing her future and Yu Lexuan's insistence that the law should be impartial, Xue Wenxi declared her intention to confess to Master Wang the next day, stating she would take the blame for stealing the lingzhi powder herself rather than let Amu suffer.
Lei Zexin, torn, offered to confess in her stead, but Xue Wenxi firmly refused, asserting that she could not, as a future official, harm an innocent family for her own career. She later confided in Mr. Ding that her emotional nature made it difficult for her to be an official, as she couldn't bring herself to harm Amu's family to prove her innocence, wondering if her friends were disappointed in her. Three days quickly passed.
In the Interrogation Hall, Master Wang inquired about the missing Feng Chengjun, to which Han Shengzhi smugly suggested Feng Chengjun was hiding, implying no thief had been found. However, Xue Wenxi then stepped forward, shockingly confessing that she herself was the thief. Han Shengzhi immediately called for her severe punishment, but Yu Lexuan defended her, stating she must have had a reason.
Lei Zexin, as the oldest of their group, offered to take the punishment in Xue Wenxi's place, an offer Yu Lexuan quickly echoed. Xue Wenxi, however, insisted on bearing the consequences herself, upholding the law. Just as Han Shengzhi urged Master Wang to expel Xue Wenxi and punish the others, Feng Chengjun arrived, bringing Amu with him.
Amu, the true thief, confessed, explaining that he had been living in fear since the theft but was moved to surrender because Xue Wenxi and her friends had treated him with dignity and given him hope, making him want to live an honest life for his younger siblings. Master Wang praised Amu's courage and formally cleared Xue Wenxi's name.
Despite Han Shengzhi's continued insistence that Xue Wenxi be punished for deceiving her teachers, Feng Chengjun eloquently argued that all Yun Shang scholars were guilty of being ignorant of the common people's suffering and the country's issues. Master Wang agreed, emphasizing that scholars should not only seek knowledge but also care for the people and the nation.
As a punishment for Xue Wenxi's deception and to further their learning, Master Wang ordered Xue Wenxi, Feng Chengjun, Lei Zexin, and Yu Lexuan to find the remaining lingzhi powder within three days. He then rebuked Han Shengzhi, stating that as the head of Yun Shang Academy and an Investigating Censor, he should judge objectively and impartially, not based on personal interest, and punished him by deducting twenty noble points for nearly wrongly accusing Xue Wenxi.
Han Shengzhi, furious, questioned why they still needed to find the lingzhi powder, calling them childish, but Master Wang asserted that adversity was the best grindstone, leading to greater expectations. Later, the Four Gentlemen of Yun Shang reconciled, and after a group dinner where Feng Chengjun playfully taught them a lesson about teamwork, they began to strategize.
Ah Mu had revealed he sold the lingzhi powder to a man named Miao Xiang Dong, who, according to Feng Chengjun's intelligence, operated a warehouse in the mountains behind Hemiao Village, where he hoarded goods to inflate prices. Feng Chengjun and Yu Lexuan set off to seek assistance from the Imperial Brigade, while Lei Zexin and Xue Wenxi headed to stake out the warehouse.
At the warehouse, Miao Xiang Dong was seen discussing the rare lingzhi powder with his uncle, expressing concern that the Yun Shang Academy's investigation might expose their illicit trade, despite his assurance of protection from influential officials. However, his uncle, recognizing the seriousness of the situation, revealed that Feng Chengjun, the governor's son, was leading the investigation. Lei Zexin and Xue Wenxi confronted Miao Xiang Dong, identifying themselves as Investigating Censors.
A scuffle ensued, during which Miao Xiang Dong attempted to flee, and Xue Wenxi accidentally fell into the river. Lei Zexin quickly jumped in and rescued her, but Xue Wenxi was unconscious, prompting Lei Zexin to begin resuscitation efforts. While the Imperial Brigade successfully apprehended Miao Xiang Dong and others, the lingzhi powder was no longer at the warehouse.
The team, including Feng Chengjun and Yu Lexuan who arrived with the Imperial Brigade, began to inventory the other goods, urging Miao Xiang Dong to reveal the source of his stock.
Episode 26 Recap
Following an intense confrontation, Lei Zexin discovered that Wenxi was actually a young woman while attempting to perform rescue breathing after she nearly drowned. Recalling her peculiar behaviors, he was astonished, but when Wenxi regained consciousness, he quickly feigned ignorance, expressing relief that she woke before the situation became too awkward for two men. Wenxi humorously remarked that her timely awakening indeed spared them mutual embarrassment, while also thanking Lei Zexin for saving her life and dispatching the thugs.
Concerned, Lei Zexin urged her to be more cautious in the future, expressing his fear of how he would explain it to others if something happened to her. Returning to Feng Chengjun and the others looking like drowned rats, Lei Zexin stated that the lingzhi powder was not among the goods, implying another warehouse existed. He also suspected someone had tipped off Head General Gu and Lord Tian, enabling them to arrive so promptly.
Feng Chengjun, seeing Wenxi's condition, expressed concern, to which she shrugged it off as just swallowing some water. As old clothes were provided for them to change, Lei Zexin deliberately separated Wenxi and Feng Chengjun, insisting that Wenxi change alone in a small cabin and pulling Feng Chengjun away. He then deflected Feng Chengjun's curious questions about his actions.
Later, Lei Zexin downplayed his rescue method to Feng Chengjun, denying he performed rescue breathing and claiming Wenxi woke up on her own due to her good fortune. Feng Chengjun, in turn, advised Wenxi against future recklessness, suggesting she act only after discussion with the group. Back at the academy, the other students warmly greeted Wenxi and the Four Gentlemen, having missed them. They were full of praise, crediting them for enhancing Yun Shang Academy's reputation among the common folk.
Some students even proposed Wenxi and Feng Chengjun for the position of President, citing Han Shengzhi's past injustices, particularly his false accusation against Wenxi. However, Wenxi humbly declined, acknowledging Han Shengzhi's familiarity with academy affairs and stating that his contributions should not be entirely dismissed, despite his shortcomings. Upon hearing Wenxi's words, Han Shengzhi dismissed her magnanimity as mere pretense.
His cousin, Han Shengxiong, advised him to cease his relentless targeting of Wenxi and Feng Chengjun, suggesting they focus on their own duties within the council. However, Han Shengzhi adamantly refused, declaring his intention to bring glory to the Han family and prevent the Feng family from gaining dominance in the academy. He accused Gu Zi Ming of wavering in his loyalty, reminding him that his father had instructed him to obey Han Shengzhi.
Later that night, Mr. Ding summoned Lei Zexin, revealing that his investigation into the teachers' whereabouts on the night Lei Zexin encountered the person in black yielded no conclusive evidence against Mr. Li Hu, though all other teachers had confirmed alibis within the academy. Lei Zexin admitted to previously suspecting Mr. Li Hu but dismissed it, stating that Mr. Li Hu appeared to have no martial arts skills.
Meanwhile, still shaken by her near-drowning, Wenxi asked Feng Chengjun what he would do if she were to die. After some hesitation, Feng Chengjun earnestly promised to care for Wenxi's mother and sister for the rest of his life. Wenxi, misinterpreting his words as a marriage proposal, was delighted, though Feng Chengjun quickly clarified it was just a joke. That night, Lei Zexin, unsettled by his discovery of Wenxi's secret, found himself unable to sleep beside her.
Wenxi initiated a conversation, urging Lei Zexin to cherish his family and mend his distant relationship with his father, Lord Lei. She emphasized the preciousness of parental love, especially as her own father had passed away young. The next morning, Feng Chengjun awoke to find Lei Zexin inexplicably squeezed next to him, with Wenxi occupying most of the bed. Lei Zexin curtly declared that this new sleeping arrangement would be permanent for the three of them.
From then on, Lei Zexin consistently positioned himself between Wenxi and Feng Chengjun, claiming he needed to protect Wenxi incessantly, much to Feng Chengjun's confusion. During a class, Feng Chengjun inquired about Lei Zexin's sudden clinginess, to which Lei Zexin replied that since Wenxi had nearly died, he would protect her like a shadow.
Later, Yu Lexuan informed his companions that Gu Da Chao, Miao Xiang Dong's maternal uncle, was also the uncle of Gu Zhe Yuan, Gu Zi Ming's father. This established Gu Zhe Yuan as the likely protector of Gu Da Chao and Miao Xiang Dong's illicit dealings.
Yu Lexuan revealed that Gu Da Chao's 60th birthday celebration was imminent, presenting an opportune moment to infiltrate his residence and search for evidence, specifically the lingzhi powder, which Yu Lexuan suspected was hidden there. Their plan involved Feng Chengjun, Lei Zexin, and Yu Lexuan sneaking in, while Wenxi would wait outside to receive any evidence that might be thrown over the wall and deliver it to Master Wang.
Yu Lexuan, a known merchant, would enter as a guest, while Feng Chengjun and Lei Zexin would scale the walls. Before the mission, Yu Lexuan pulled Lei Zexin aside, directly accusing him of having lied about the rescue breathing incident. He then cautioned Lei Zexin against being overly protective of Wenxi, warning that such behavior would only arouse suspicion and potentially jeopardize her well-being, given her exemplary conduct since entering the academy.
He advised Lei Zexin to let things proceed naturally. Unbeknownst to them, Gu Da Chao was already aware of the impending intrusion and planned to turn his birthday celebration into a trap. That night, Yu Lexuan entered Gu Da Chao's manor as a guest, presenting gifts. Meanwhile, Lei Zexin and Wenxi stealthily made their way into the backyard.
Gu Da Chao, anticipating trouble, announced to his guests that thieves had broken into his backyard and that he had alerted the authorities. He then began plying Yu Lexuan with drinks, preventing him from assisting his friends. As guards commenced their search, Wenxi, to avoid detection, quickly disguised herself as a courtesan and hid in a warehouse. When guards arrived, she brazenly claimed she was changing clothes and threatened to scream if they didn't leave, prompting them to withdraw.
Feng Chengjun, who was hiding in a cabinet nearby, emerged, staring in disbelief at Wenxi's female attire. Feng Chengjun soon located the stolen lingzhi powder. He urged Wenxi to remain hidden and exited the warehouse with the evidence. Lei Zexin, arriving just in time, covered Feng Chengjun's escape. Wenxi, still in her disguise, tried to flee amidst the chaos but was unexpectedly confronted by Gu Da Chao, who seemed to find her familiar.
Just as she seemed trapped, Yu Lexuan intervened, distracting Gu Da Chao and allowing Wenxi to escape. However, Yu Lexuan and Lei Zexin were apprehended. Gu Da Chao initially intended to punish Yu Lexuan and Lei Zexin severely. However, upon learning that Feng Chengjun had successfully fled with the lingzhi powder, he realized his precarious position.
Yu Lexuan deftly used this leverage, warning Gu Da Chao that the escaped scholar would deliver the evidence directly to Master Wang if they were not released. Faced with this threat and the need to explain the presence of the tribute, Gu Da Chao was compelled to release them.
He quickly concocted a story, claiming he had rented the warehouse to his nephew Miao Xiang Dong for business, feigning ignorance of any illicit activities and promising to be stricter in the future. Yu Lexuan, satisfied, assured him that they would not wrongly accuse an innocent person, effectively ending the confrontation and securing their freedom.
Episode 27 Recap
Upon returning to Room Two of Regular Dorm, Feng Chengjun felt uneasy seeing Xue Wenxi. Still unaware of Xue Wenxi's true gender, he mistakenly believed Xue Wenxi's recent appearance as a courtesan was a man in drag. When Lei Zexin and Yu Lexuan also returned, Feng Chengjun, embarrassed by his lingering thoughts of Xue Wenxi's beautiful female disguise, followed them inside. Yu Lexuan confirmed that they had obtained evidence, so Gu Da Chao would not dare harm them.
Lei Zexin noticed rouge on Xue Wenxi's lips, which surprised Feng Chengjun. Lei Zexin then recounted how Gu Da Chao's terrified accomplices, upon learning they had evidence, immediately wanted them gone. Later, outside, Feng Chengjun reflected on Xue Wenxi's stunning appearance in female attire, remarking on how realistic it looked. Lei Zexin then recited a poem about female beauty, teasing Feng Chengjun about Xue Wenxi turning into a fairy.
Xue Wenxi, overhearing, jokingly offered to wear it again if Feng Chengjun liked it. Meanwhile, Gu Da Chao panicked, realizing his ledger, containing records of bribes from various officials, was missing, and he feared for his life. In fact, Xue Wenxi had obtained this ledger and, finding Feng Jichang's name written on it, hesitated about whether to reveal it. That night, Feng Chengjun, still unsettled, found himself staring at Xue Wenxi's sleeping face.
He imagined Xue Wenxi as a woman and struggled with his confused feelings. Lei Zexin noticed Feng Chengjun's strange behavior, wondering if he had discovered Xue Wenxi's true identity, and questioned Feng Chengjun's attempts to change their sleeping arrangements. Later, Gu Da Chao went to confess to Lord Han (Han Shengzhi's father). He revealed that he had cleverly recorded all "filial piety" payments meant for Lord Han under Feng Jichang's name as a precaution.
However, he also admitted that the names of Lord Han's subordinates were explicitly listed in the ledger. Enraged, Lord Han threatened Gu Da Chao, ordering him to retrieve the ledger immediately, warning that Gu Da Chao would pay with his life if any of his men faced trouble. Han Shengzhi tried to calm his father, suggesting that since Feng Jichang's name was on the ledger, his son, Feng Chengjun, wouldn't expose it.
But Lord Han remained resolute, insisting the ledger must be recovered. In Yun Shang Academy, during a lesson, Feng Chengjun found himself distracted again as he watched Xue Wenxi answer questions, imagining Xue Wenxi as a woman. Flustered by these strange feelings, Feng Chengjun began to avoid Xue Wenxi. Meanwhile, Xue Wenxi examined the ledger, noting Feng Jichang's name appeared frequently. He wondered how the upright Feng Chengjun could have a father involved in such corruption with Gu Da Chao.
Yu Lexuan and Lei Zexin then approached Xue Wenxi, remarking on Feng Chengjun's recent strange behavior and his avoidance of Xue Wenxi, speculating it was due to seeing Xue Wenxi in female disguise. They suggested Xue Wenxi directly confront Feng Chengjun to clarify the situation. Following their advice, Xue Wenxi intercepted Feng Chengjun, pressing him for an explanation.
Feng Chengjun, unable to escape, finally confessed that he had been disturbed since seeing Xue Wenxi disguised as a courtesan, as her beautiful image as a woman haunted his mind. Xue Wenxi found this amusing but also awkward. Feng Chengjun, flustered, asked if Xue Wenxi had a twin sister who looked exactly like him, then suggested Xue Wenxi help him get together with her. Xue Wenxi, both amused and annoyed, punched Feng Chengjun playfully before running off.
Later, in the bath hall, Feng Chengjun doused himself with cold water, hoping to clear his mind of the confusing thoughts. Meanwhile, Lin Bing Shen, acting under Academic Dean Han Shengzhi's orders to find the ledger and monitor Feng Chengjun, was caught by Mr. Li Hu in the bath hall. Mr. Li Hu, accusing Lin Bing Shen of suspicious activities including peeping at classmates bathing and a past theft of Lingzhi powder, pressured him.
Under duress, Lin Bing Shen confessed that Academic Dean Han Shengzhi had tasked him with keeping an eye on Feng Chengjun and searching for a ledger. Lin Bing Shen later reported back to Han Shengzhi, stating that Feng Chengjun showed no unusual behavior.
However, he informed Han Shengzhi that Xue Wenxi had been in the library extensively, researching the State Code of Yun, and deduced that Xue Wenxi must be cross-referencing it with the ledger, meaning the ledger was likely in his possession. Han Shengzhi, with his men, immediately rushed to the library to confront Xue Wenxi, falsely accusing him of possessing a banned book as a pretext to search for the ledger.
Just as they were about to seize Xue Wenxi, Mr. Li Hu appeared, dismissing Han Shengzhi and his men and warning them against further interference, thereby saving Xue Wenxi from capture. Lei Zexin noticed Xue Wenxi's recent distress and pressed him about it. Xue Wenxi then showed Lei Zexin the ledger, which he had found at the hiding place of the Lingzhi powder.
Lei Zexin immediately wanted to present the evidence to Master Wang, but Xue Wenxi worried it might be a fabricated ledger designed to frame Feng Jichang, unfairly implicating Feng Chengjun's father. This sparked Lei Zexin's long-held resentment towards Feng Jichang. Lei Zexin adamantly stated that Feng Jichang was not a good man, recalling how Feng Jichang had forced his father to disown his elder brother, Lei Ze Xun, who had sought to improve the country's education system.
This act of coercion led to Lei Ze Xun's execution and his mother's death from grief. Lei Zexin expressed his enduring pain, refusing to let go of the past until his brother's name was cleared. Xue Wenxi sympathized with Lei Zexin's tragic history but insisted that as a friend to both Lei Zexin and Feng Chengjun, he would remain impartial and investigate the ledger thoroughly before making any judgment. Feng Chengjun, hidden nearby, overheard their entire conversation.
Deeply troubled by the accusations against his father, Feng Chengjun sought him out. Playing chess with his father, Feng Chengjun straightforwardly asked if he knew Gu Da Chao and if he had accepted bribes. Feng Jichang firmly denied the bribery accusations, stating that while he had made some difficult choices in his official career, taking bribes was beneath him.
He encouraged Feng Chengjun to investigate the matter thoroughly and objectively, assuring him that the best way to clear false rumors was to uncover the truth. Bolstered by his father's words, Feng Chengjun then confronted Xue Wenxi and Lei Zexin. He acknowledged Xue Wenxi's concerns but contended that his identity as Feng Jichang's son might prevent him from being objective, and challenged their reliance on a single, potentially fake, ledger to condemn his father.
Despite the rising tension, Feng Chengjun declared he would personally investigate the truth of the matter. In a separate development, Feng Chengjun spoke with Principal Feng about Mr. Li Hu's blank record prior to joining the academy. Principal Feng explained that Mr. Li Hu was a talented individual exceptionally recruited by Master Wang, which accounted for the lack of prior official records.
Later, Xue Wenxi received a letter from Mr. Ding, Ding Ruoyang, requesting a secret meeting at San Shen Temple to discuss the ledger. Around the same time, Lin Bing Shen intercepted Lei Zexin, informing him that Mr. Ding wished to see him. Xue Wenxi, realizing this was a ruse to separate him from Lei Zexin, urged Lei Zexin to go, assuring him he would be fine alone.
Lei Zexin left, only to find Mr. Ding denying having sent for him, confirming Lin Bing Shen's deceptive role in Academic Dean Han Shengzhi's scheme. Meanwhile, at Cai Yun House, Mu Xiao Man's maid, Xiao Qing, reported that a storyteller, Mr. Qin, had been visiting daily, ostensibly to see Mu Xiao Man, but unusually never listened to her songs and asked strange questions. Mu Xiao Man, intrigued, had him admitted.
Mr. Qin introduced himself as a scholar who had traveled extensively. He then revealed that Mu Xiao Man's surname and appearance strongly reminded him of a deceased friend, Mu Jiang, whose family had been tragically put on death row for offending powerful nobles. Mr. Qin explained he had learned that Mu Jiang's daughter survived and was around Mu Xiao Man's age.
He expressed his desperate need to find her, as she was his dear friend's only surviving bloodline, and asked for Mu Xiao Man's help, acknowledging her wide connections. Mu Xiao Man promised to assist him in his search.
Episode 28 Recap
Han Shengzhi approached Wen Bin, intending to deceive her into handing over a crucial ledger. He claimed he would handle it impartially and give it to Master Wang, manipulating Wen Bin by suggesting the ledger implicated Governor Feng in corruption and that he was acting for her benefit, offering to take the risk from her. Just as Wen Bin hesitated, Yu Lexuan and Lei Zexin arrived at San Shen Temple, disrupting Han Shengzhi's plan.
Yu Lexuan declared his intention to interfere, praying for retribution against evil-doers. A skilled martial arts expert then appeared, distracting Lei Zexin and engaging him in a fight. Despite Lei Zexin's assessment that the fighter was not very impressive, Wen Bin and Yu Lexuan sustained injuries, and the ledger was stolen.
Upon returning to the academy, Wen Bin and Yu Lexuan were visibly upset, not only by their injuries and the loss of the ledger but also by Han Shengzhi's cunning nature, as he was the academy's President, making him difficult to challenge directly. Lei Zexin, Wen Bin, and Feng Chengjun later discussed the incident. Feng Chengjun had brought them to the temple in time, preventing further harm.
Although Han Shengzhi denied any involvement when confronted, Lei Zexin was certain of his culpability and noted Han Shengzhi himself had an injury, making him suspect the President was feigning innocence. Many scholars, aware that Han Shengzhi had instigated the attack on Wen Bin and Yu Lexuan, encouraged Yu Lexuan to lead an effort to remove Han Shengzhi from his position as President, believing his popularity would garner support.
Lei Zexin shared his suspicions with Mr Ding, describing the mysterious assailant and noting the attacker's eyes resembled Mr Li. He also mentioned kicking the assailant in the chest, expecting the injury to leave bruises. Mr Ding and Lei Zexin went to find Mr Li, who was taking a bath. Lei Zexin then entered the bathhouse under the pretext of bathing himself, only to find no injury on Mr Li's chest, which deeply perplexed him.
Mr Li explained he was delayed because he was reviewing scholars' conduct scores. Later, Wen Bin helped Lei Zexin change his medication, noticing his pale complexion and attributing it to the lost ledger. Wen Bin and Lei Zexin discussed Feng Chengjun, acknowledging his struggle to prove his father's innocence without the ledger. Yu Lexuan, anticipating his new leadership role, jokingly asked Lei Zexin to protect him from Han Shengzhi's potential retaliation.
The oral defense session commenced, focusing on the dispute between Yu Lexuan and Han Shengzhi. Han Shengzhi began by vehemently denying Yu Lexuan's accusations of instigating the assault, claiming the chaotic situation led to "misunderstandings" and that Wen Bin and Yu Lexuan were uncooperative. Scholars, however, continued to condemn Han Shengzhi for instigating violence against his fellow students, asserting he was unfit to be a scholar or the President.
In response, Han Shengzhi challenged their evidence and questioned Yu Lexuan's right to impeach him. He then escalated the confrontation by publicly revealing that Yu Lexuan was born in the Western District and had purchased a fake noble identity to gain admission to the academy.
While some scholars argued that academic merit, not background, was paramount at Yun Shang, Han Shengzhi continued to expose Yu Lexuan, accusing him of not only running a business but also engaging in deceptive and illicit activities, labeling him a "business prodigy" who profited from any means. The climax came when Han Shengzhi declared that, according to The State Code of Yun, Yu Lexuan was an illegitimate child and thus ineligible to attend Yun Shang Academy.
This revelation caused an uproar among the assembled scholars, many of whom immediately demanded Yu Lexuan's expulsion. Feng Chengjun glared at Han Shengzhi, condemning his cruel actions. Overwhelmed by the chaos, Principal Feng reluctantly suspended the session, announcing that Yu Lexuan's issue would be addressed first, with other matters deferred. Following the tumultuous session, Principal Feng was distraught, lamenting the disgrace brought upon Yun Shang Academy by the scandal.
Han Shengzhi, undeterred, began circulating leaflets throughout the academy detailing Yu Lexuan's status as an illegitimate child, fueling whispers and public condemnation. During this difficult time, Lei Zexin and Feng Chengjun remained steadfastly by Yu Lexuan's side, offering him much-needed emotional support. The escalating crisis also reached Master Wang, who, instead of immediately expelling Yu Lexuan, expressed his desire to observe how Feng Chengjun, Wen Bin, and Lei Zexin would handle the complex situation.
Meanwhile, a new concern arose as Yu Lexuan disappeared, prompting fears among some scholars that he might do something drastic. Feng Chengjun dismissed these worries, asserting that Yu Lexuan was mentally prepared for such challenges, though he would need time to cope. Feng Chengjun then set out to search for Yu Lexuan, while Wen Bin remained behind to gather signatures from other scholars, hoping to petition for Yu Lexuan's reinstatement.
Despite Yu Lexuan's past kindness to them, many scholars refused to sign, citing Han Shengzhi's implicit threats and their own need for self-preservation. They accused Yu Lexuan of deceiving everyone and using dishonest methods to acquire wealth, disappointing Wen Bin who lamented the fickle nature of human relationships. Lei Zexin eventually located Yu Lexuan wandering aimlessly on the street.
Despite Yu Lexuan's initial desire for solitude and his assertion that his identity was an unchangeable fact, Lei Zexin remained concerned and insisted on staying with him, feeling frustrated that he couldn't offer more tangible help. Yu Lexuan eventually relented, only asking that Lei Zexin be the sole person accompanying him.
While Lei Zexin was with Yu Lexuan, Wen Bin continued her tireless efforts, staying up late into the night to gather signatures, resolute in her determination to ensure Yu Lexuan's return. She declared that the four of them were inseparable, and as long as her friends were there, she would be too, promising not to disappoint Principal Feng, who believed this challenge was a test for them all.
Later, Lei Zexin, Yu Lexuan, and Feng Chengjun reunited at Yu Le House, where Feng Chengjun, in an unexpected gesture, had purchased wine. This was Feng Chengjun's first time buying drinks for friends, and he admitted to feeling quite inebriated. During their heartfelt conversation, Lei Zexin acknowledged his past animosity towards Feng Chengjun, hinting at a connection to his brother's death and their fathers' past.
Feng Chengjun, in turn, expressed his desire for Lei Zexin to set aside prejudices and join him in uncovering the truth. Lei Zexin agreed, but sternly warned that if Feng Chengjun's father was indeed involved in his brother's death, he would show no mercy. Feng Chengjun affirmed his commitment to fairness and justice, prompting them to toast to both. Feng Chengjun then encouraged Yu Lexuan to let go of the past, reinforcing that he was unique and invaluable.
Yu Lexuan, touched by their unwavering support, asked if Feng Chengjun still held the same animosity towards him. Feng Chengjun assured him that he remained the same, emphasizing that they were now like family, an indispensable unit. The following day, the academy reconvened for the crucial debate concerning Yu Lexuan's fate. Han Shengzhi, surrounded by numerous supporters—many of whom were coerced—mocked the meager number of signatures supporting Yu Lexuan, suggesting the debate was pointless and Yu Lexuan should immediately depart.
Master Wang was present, observing the proceedings and instructing the participants to make their decision based on their true intentions. Overwhelmed and weary from years of maintaining a facade, Yu Lexuan offered to leave the academy, stating he was ready to finally shed his disguise and be himself. However, Feng Chengjun interceded, stopping him and asserting that Yu Lexuan could not leave yet, as the outcome was not final.
Feng Chengjun then announced that if over eighty percent of the student representatives agreed to forgive Yu Lexuan, he could remain. With everyone's attention, Feng Chengjun began to speak about Yu Lexuan, surprisingly starting by portraying him as an "unfilial son" who had abandoned his parents.
Episode 29 Recap
Feng Chengjun stood up to defend Yu Lexuan, stating that it was the pervasive emphasis on origin and status within their society and among their classmates that forced Yu Lexuan to constantly worry about his background and hide his true identity. If true sincerity and kindness were prevalent among the students, he argued, Yu Lexuan would not have felt the need to conceal anything.
Han Shengzhi scoffed, reminding everyone that the laws of Yun explicitly forbid illegitimate children from entering Yun Shang Academy, a rule that no one could violate. Feng Chengjun countered that while Yu Lexuan might have erred in lying about his identity, no one had suffered a negative experience simply because of who Yu Lexuan was as a person.
He questioned why someone's future should be jeopardized over a mere identity, especially given Yu Lexuan's excellent academic performance at the academy, which everyone had witnessed. Xue Wenxi (Wen Bin) added her voice to the plea, revealing her own humble origins and how Yun Shang Academy had made an exception to accept her.
She expressed her hope that the academy would extend the same grace to Yu Lexuan, allowing him to anticipate a bright future, just as she had been given a new chance at life. The students echoed their agreement, asserting that there was no absolute nobility or inferiority, and that while one cannot choose their birth, they can choose their life. Master Wang listened attentively to their arguments before asking Yu Lexuan if he wished to offer any defense.
Yu Lexuan confessed that since he was old enough to understand, he had constantly evaded his family and his origin, indulging in vanity and speaking dishonestly. However, now that his deception was exposed, he felt an unprecedented sense of relief, understanding that true freedom comes only from a clear conscience. He declared that regardless of the outcome, he would have no complaints, committing to become a genuinely happy person, doing what he ought to do and following his chosen path.
Yu Lexuan's sincere words deeply moved his classmates, who, undeterred by Han Shengzhi's threats, rallied around him. Soon, with the exception of Han Shengzhi and Lin Bing Shen, the majority of the students voted for Yu Lexuan to remain. Master Wang was satisfied with the decision and urged Yu Lexuan not to betray the trust placed in him by his peers.
With Yu Lexuan's situation settled, Lei Zexin addressed Master Wang once more, requesting that he deal with Han Shengzhi's previous offense of instigating an assault on a fellow student. Han Shengzhi vehemently denied the accusation and demanded evidence. Just as students began to call for an injury examination to prove Lei Zexin's claim, Lin Bing Shen unexpectedly stepped forward and confessed to being the culprit.
He admitted that he was responsible for injuring Feng Chengjun, tampering with the bowstring during the archery ceremony, and falsely accusing Wen Bin of stealing medicinal herbs. Master Wang then instructed the Four Gentlemen of Yun Shang to decide on Lin Bing Shen's punishment. Yu Lexuan, when asked for his suggestion, advocated for leniency. He remarked that Yun Shang was a place for transformation and that punishment should not be the sole objective.
Since he himself had been given a second chance, he believed Lin Bing Shen deserved one too. His compassionate stance was met with widespread applause from his classmates, who lauded his magnanimity and hailed him as a role model. After the proceedings, Lin Bing Shen informed a stunned Han Shengzhi that his actions were a gesture of gratitude for Han Shengzhi's past financial support, but from that day forward, he would no longer be Han Shengzhi's lackey.
Instead, he intended to forge his own path and live with dignity. Later, Han Sheng Xiong also approached Han Shengzhi, expressing his contempt for his cousin's behavior and praising the true Four Gentlemen of Yun Shang. Lin Bing Shen and Han Sheng Xiong genuinely sought forgiveness from Yu Lexuan and Xue Wenxi.
Lin Bing Shen presented Yu Lexuan with a parasol, engraved with "Man in Rain," which he had purchased with money he earned honestly through a writing job Yu Lexuan had secured for him. He explained that the gift symbolized shielding Yu Lexuan from life's storms and wished him great success. Yu Lexuan, initially finding the gift peculiar, accepted it after Xue Wenxi playfully stated she would keep track of Lin Bing Shen's past misdeeds.
Yu Lexuan then candidly discussed his past wealth, which he had intended to use to secure a permanent aristocratic title. Now that it was useless, he offered to spend it on wine for everyone. Xue Wenxi, however, gently suggested he use the money to provide a better life for his long-unvisited parents, a thought that resonated with Yu Lexuan. As he prepared to move back to the common dormitory, his friends eagerly offered to help him relocate.
That evening, as Xue Wenxi drifted to sleep leaning against a wall in the dormitory, Feng Chengjun watched her. Her feminine image flickered in his mind, causing his heart to pound. He considered moving her to her bed but she unexpectedly stirred, waking up. Flustered and embarrassed, Feng Chengjun quickly departed. Meanwhile, Han Shengzhi's parents expressed their desire to arrange a marriage for him, seeking a young, beautiful woman from a prestigious family.
However, Han Shengzhi's thoughts were solely on Mu Xiao Man. He sought her out, confiding his romantic feelings and bitterly lamenting the betrayal he felt from his former confidantes, including Han Sheng Xiong, Lin Bing Shen, and Gu Zi Ming. Mu Xiao Man, however, sharply rebuked him, asserting that if he had treated others with sincerity and acted honorably, they would never have betrayed him.
She accused him of making excuses for his failures and drowning his sorrows in drink, declaring her contempt for his cowardly behavior and warning him that their meeting would be their last if he continued to be unreasonable. Feng Chengjun, distracted and troubled, began to make repeated errors in class, even misinterpreting Confucius's commentary on a poem about family harmony. Master Wang noticed his unusual behavior and assigned him the task of copying the poem twenty times.
Yu Lexuan later questioned Feng Chengjun about his strange demeanor. Feng Chengjun confessed his confusion, explaining that his emotions seemed inextricably tied to Xue Wenxi: he cared about what Xue Wenxi cared about, felt happy when Xue Wenxi was happy, and sad when Xue Wenxi was sad. He wondered if this was a strange predicament.
Yu Lexuan, observing Feng Chengjun's lack of experience with women, suggested he was simply a "bookworm" who struggled to differentiate between brotherly affection and romantic love, proposing that his constant proximity to Xue Wenxi might be the cause of his delusion. Yu Lexuan advised him that anxiety stems from suspicion, and if he was truly worried, he should try interacting more with other girls to uncover the root of his emotional turmoil.
Soon after, Ms. Han, Feng Chengjun's sister, sent him a letter containing three riddles, hoping to alleviate his boredom with his studies. Recalling Yu Lexuan's advice, Feng Chengjun readily agreed to solve them for her.
Episode 30 Recap
Han Shumin sent a letter to Feng Chengjun, inviting him to meet. Remembering Yu Lexuan's earlier words, Feng Chengjun accepted, unaware that Wenxi was secretly following them. Han Shumin presented Feng Chengjun with several riddles, which he effortlessly solved, revealing the answer to be "Today, especially, miss you." She gracefully observed him, mentioning that she had recently engaged a teacher to help her study and had made significant progress in her academics, thanks to his guidance.
Feng Chengjun was pleased by her diligence and encouraged her, inviting her to visit the Bo Lan House at Yun Shang Academy's Open Day in three days, where a vast collection of books awaited. Han Shumin was delighted and promptly agreed to meet again. Watching Feng Chengjun and Han Shumin converse happily, Wenxi returned to the academy disheartened. Mr Ding called Wenxi aside, noting Feng Chengjun's recent distraction and asking if it was related to her.
Wenxi admitted it was, though she had not yet revealed her true identity to him. Mr Ding expressed concern that Wenxi might be misguided in her affections, pointing out the vast difference in their social standings and the nobility's emphasis on appropriate matches. He warned that her persistence might not yield the desired outcome. Despite this, Wenxi remained determined to strive to change her own destiny. After thanking Mr Ding, she prepared a late meal for Feng Chengjun.
However, Feng Chengjun declined to eat, and the meal was eventually claimed by a hungry Lei Zexin and Yu Lexuan. Feng Chengjun attempted to maintain distance from Wenxi, but she continued to seek him out. Unable to endure her persistence, he retreated to the Bo Lan House to read. Soon, Yun Shang Academy's Open Day for family and friends arrived, and students joyfully welcomed their relatives, guiding them on tours.
Yu Lexuan introduced his brother to a stable job as a writer, helping him financially. Another student's father shared his newfound ambition to become an official, no matter how small the rank, to advocate for commoners. Mr Ding observed the lively scene and approached Mr Li, inquiring about his family. Mr Li, seeming evasive, briefly explained that he was an orphan from Li Village in the North District, raised by his grandmother.
Han Shumin also arrived at the academy, making her way directly to Room Two of Regular Dorm to find Feng Chengjun. Feng Chengjun greeted her with warmth and asked Wenxi to pour tea for her, much to Wenxi's silent frustration. After finishing her tea, Han Shumin and Feng Chengjun departed to visit the Bo Lan House. Wenxi, still seething with indignation, was surprised to see Mu Xiaoman arrive. Later that evening, the four of them dined together.
To provoke Feng Chengjun, Wenxi deliberately acted affectionately towards Mu Xiaoman. To her dismay, Feng Chengjun did not seem to mind and even remarked on how well-matched Wenxi and Mu Xiaoman appeared. Wenxi, overcome with jealousy, began to speak recklessly, accusing Feng Chengjun of valuing love over friendship. Sensing that the meal could not continue, Feng Chengjun rose to escort Han Shumin away. Mu Xiaoman also, understanding the situation, excused herself.
In the end, it was Lei Zexin who carried a drunken Wenxi back to their dormitory. Lei Zexin, who harbored feelings for Wenxi, had even purchased a hairpin for her, intending to place it in her hair himself. However, as Wenxi mumbled Feng Chengjun's name in her sleep, Lei Zexin's heart ached, and he sadly removed the hairpin, admitting to himself that he was a fool for his unrequited feelings.
As Feng Chengjun escorted Han Shumin home, Han Shengzhi, Han Shumin's brother, saw them. Upon learning that his sister harbored feelings for Feng Chengjun, he promptly informed his parents. Han Shumin told her brother that she and Feng Chengjun were mutually attracted. Her father, Lord Han, decided to act quickly to facilitate a marriage alliance between the two families.
Meanwhile, Feng Chengjun, desiring a peaceful environment for his studies, decided to leave the academy and continue his education at home, believing it would be beneficial for all involved. The following day, Lord Han eagerly visited Governor Feng, Feng Chengjun's father, to announce that Feng Chengjun and his daughter were romantically involved.
When Governor Feng questioned his son, Feng Chengjun astonishingly confirmed the relationship and expressed his willingness to marry Han Shumin soon, stating he had thought it through and genuinely liked her, and was willing to respect his elders' wishes. When Wenxi learned that Feng Chengjun was to marry Han Shumin and would be returning home for his studies, she frantically attempted to confess her true identity to him.
However, Mr Ding intervened, stopping her and cautioning her against such an impulsive act, fearing that her exposure would endanger her life and her family. He urged her to control herself for the sake of her future. Elsewhere, Lei Zexin was observed by his deceased brother Lei Ze Xun's memorial tablet, vowing to expose the crimes of those who caused his brother's death. He resumed distributing flyers with this information, causing alarm among the academy staff and leading to a widespread search for the source of these messages.
Episode 31 Recap
Leaflets accusing Lord Feng of bribery, containing content from a ledger belonging to a merchant named Gu Da Chao, were spreading throughout the capital, a result of Lei Zexin having copied and distributed the ledger's contents. Lord Feng was deeply troubled by these rumors. Contemplating whether to personally interrogate Gu Da Chao to clarify the situation, he consulted with Attendant Officer Han. Attendant Officer Han advised against it, suggesting that such action would only make the rumors appear true.
Instead, he proposed that Lord Feng distance himself from the matter to avoid suspicion, promising to handle everything swiftly to put an end to the trouble. Assured by Attendant Officer Han's pledge of support, given their families were soon to become in-laws, Lord Feng agreed to his advice, feeling somewhat relieved.
Meanwhile, Gu Da Chao’s uncle, upon learning of the situation, remarked that the ledger had been stolen from Wen Bin and that the person who copied its contents and spread the flyers must be connected to Wen Bin. Elsewhere, Xue Wenxi felt a deep sense of boredom and emptiness in the dorm, especially after Feng Chengjun moved out. She worried he was being too rash in his decision regarding Han Shumin and might come to regret it.
She confided in Yu Lexuan, expressing her desire to speak with Feng Chengjun and asking Yu Lexuan to arrange a meeting. Yu Lexuan agreed to help, but reminded her that for a "heartache," one must administer the "right medicine." At his home, Feng Chengjun appeared sullen despite his impending marriage proposal to Han Shumin. Yu Lexuan soon arrived, arranging for Feng Chengjun to meet Xue Wenxi at Mulan Alley on South Street that night.
Feng Chengjun arrived as scheduled but found no one there. A beggar informed him that a scrawny young scholar had been abducted by several strong men, prompting Feng Chengjun to rush off in pursuit. Feng Chengjun tracked Xue Wenxi to Gu Da Chao's location. Hiding outside, he overheard Gu Da Chao threaten Xue Wenxi, revealing that he knew her true identity as a woman.
Gu Da Chao demanded she hand over the ledger and its copies, promising not to circulate them, or he would expose her disguise as a male scholar at Yun Shang Academy, a crime of deceiving the emperor punishable by family execution. Despite her initial pretense, Xue Wenxi eventually confirmed her identity, stating she was Wen Bin, not his "little brother." Gu Da Chao then proposed she become his concubine in exchange for his silence.
Suddenly, Attendant Officer Han’s assassins stormed in, killing Gu Da Chao and his men. As one of the assassins moved to strike Xue Wenxi, Feng Chengjun burst through the door. Recognizing Feng Chengjun, the assassin retreated, leaving the scene. Attendant Officer Han was later informed and expressed his satisfaction, believing the murder of Gu Da Chao would be attributed to Lord Feng, thus diverting suspicion from himself. Following the ordeal, Xue Wenxi was questioned by officials alongside Feng Chengjun.
Feng Chengjun vouched for her, asserting that the killer was masked. He embraced Xue Wenxi, offering comfort. Later that night, after the officials had left, Feng Chengjun escorted Xue Wenxi back to the academy. Though Xue Wenxi expressed her deep desire for him to return, Feng Chengjun stated he had other matters to attend to. However, he promised not to avoid her anymore, assuring her that future meetings would not be difficult.
Upon returning to Room Two of Regular Dorm, Xue Wenxi recounted the night's terrifying events to Lei Zexin: her kidnapping by Gu Da Chao, his threats regarding the ledger, the masked assassin who killed Gu Da Chao and his men, and Feng Chengjun's timely intervention. She also mentioned that the Imperial Brigade believed the assassin was the one who had distributed the flyers.
The next day, Lord Feng, having learned of Gu Da Chao's death, visited Attendant Officer Han, expressing concern that the death might implicate him. Attendant Officer Han reassured him, but quickly redirected the conversation to the marriage, asking when Feng Chengjun would come to propose. He emphasized that his daughter, Han Shumin, was "the apple of my eye" and must not be wronged, stressing his family's reputation for keeping promises.
Attendant Officer Han appeared anxious about Feng Chengjun potentially reneging on the engagement. Meanwhile, Han Shumin, disguised as a male scholar, visited Feng Chengjun. Seeing her from behind, Feng Chengjun mistook her for Xue Wenxi and affectionately embraced her, expressing how much he had missed "Wen Bin." Upon seeing her face, he quickly released her in surprise. Han Shumin, misinterpreting his initial warmth as deep affection, was delighted and expressed a wish to study with him.
Feng Chengjun politely declined, citing his busy academic schedule. Later, at home, Feng Chengjun pranked his servant, Wang He, implying his food was poisoned, a trick he admitted was a taste of his own medicine. His servant remarked on Feng Chengjun's evident joy upon seeing "Wen Bin," even more so than for his own engagement. Feng Chengjun then declared his decision to return to Yun Shang Academy with "Little Brother" (Xue Wenxi).
Upon hearing of Feng Chengjun's return to Yun Shang Academy without completing the marriage proposal, Attendant Officer Han was furious. He believed Feng Chengjun should have secured the engagement first, fearing his family would become the laughing stock of Yunzhou. He decided to prioritize finding a suitable marriage for his son, Han Shengzhi, emphasizing the tradition of the elder sibling marrying first.
However, Feng Chengjun had already informed his father that he had clarified his position to Han Shumin the previous night, stating that prolonging the situation was "not the gentleman's way," and asked for his father's understanding. Meanwhile, Han Shengzhi, deeply depressed due to his feelings for Ms. Mu, wandered the streets late at night, drunk and getting into a fight with two men. Other scholars, including Xue Wenxi, Yu Lexuan, and Lin Bing Shen, discovered him.
Yu Lexuan confronted Han Shengzhi, calling him a coward who made excuses for his problems, which Han Shengzhi angrily denied. Xue Wenxi and the others intervened, stopping the fight and helping the inebriated Han Shengzhi. The next day, Han Shengzhi woke to find his hand bandaged and questioned what had happened. When Xue Wenxi, Yu Lexuan, and Lin Bing Shen came to visit, they informed him that Xue Wenxi herself had bandaged his wounds.
Han Shengzhi seemed surprised and found it hard to believe their kindness. Yu Lexuan tried to reassure him that Ms. Mu might still have feelings for him, and together, they encouraged Han Shengzhi to return to the academy and reconcile with his fellow scholars, emphasizing the importance of understanding and support.
Episode 32 Recap
Han Shengzhi, recovering from a drunken fight with gangsters, was surprised to find his schoolmates, including Wen Bin, caring for him. Though he initially expressed disbelief that Wen Bin would be kind, Yu Lexuan and others gently explained that true strength in Yun Shang Academy came from collective effort, not from surpassing any one individual. This resonated with Han Shengzhi, who finally shed his personal resentments and offered to treat everyone to drinks at a tavern that night.
Later, Principal Feng summoned Feng Chengjun and Wen Bin to discuss the upcoming competition. He explained that participants would draw lots to form two-person teams, then search within a designated area for a map torn in half, which would reveal the precise location of a drum. The first team to find it would win.
Wen Bin initially hesitated, recognizing the physical challenge, but her resolve strengthened upon learning the rewards: 100 character points, a thousand mace, and direct entry into the imperial exam. With Feng Chengjun’s encouragement, she agreed to participate. The team drawing commenced, overseen by Mr. Li Hu. For the first area, the teams announced were Feng Chengjun and Lei Zexin, Yu Lexuan and Mo Xiao Huan, and finally, Wen Bin and Han Shengzhi.
Han Shengzhi's attitude towards Wen Bin had noticeably improved; he was no longer hostile but eager to work together for victory. During their physical training for the competition, Han Shengzhi even thoughtfully prepared honey water for everyone, a gesture that pleased the students and showed his significant transformation. As the competition officially began, the three teams from the first area set off.
Mr. Li Hu instructed the other students to return to the academy and await results, then, subtly changing into a black, masked outfit, he pursued the competitors up the mountain. Meanwhile, Mr. Ding (Ding Ruo Yang) had grown suspicious of Mr. Li Hu. He traveled around, showing a drawing of Li Hu, asking if anyone recognized him. He unexpectedly encountered Qin Bei Chuan, an old acquaintance.
Overwhelmed with emotion, they tearfully recalled the tragic event surrounding Xue Ding Kun's death years ago. Qin Bei Chuan revealed that he had once submitted a memorial about the incident, which was guarded by Li Hu, Ke Shi Jun, and two other fellow students. However, at the last moment, the memorial was mysteriously swapped with a banned book. The mystery had remained unsolved. Mr. Ding, now deep in thought, showed Qin Bei Chuan the drawing of Mr. Li Hu.
Qin Bei Chuan was shocked, identifying the person in the drawing as Li Hu. Ding Ruo Yang realized the truth: Li Hu, believing Han Zheng Liang, Lei Qi Ying, and Feng Jichang were responsible for his revered teacher Xue Ding Kun's death, had assumed the alias Mr. Li Hu and infiltrated the academy. His true purpose was to seek revenge by killing their descendants: Han Shengzhi, Lei Zexin, and Feng Chengjun.
Knowing the grave danger, Ding Ruo Yang galloped up the mountain. He arrived just as Li Hu had knocked out the three students and was preparing to bury them alive. Ding Ruo Yang managed to stop the tragedy, urgently explaining to Li Hu that Feng Jichang was not involved in the murder.
He also revealed that Lei Qi Ying had not executed Xue Ding Kun’s family but had, in fact, saved his widow and orphan, and that Wen Bin was Xue Ding Kun’s own child. Wen Bin, hidden behind a tree, had overheard their entire conversation. Unable to bear it any longer, she stepped out and tearfully asked Ding Ruo Yang if his words were true. He reluctantly confirmed it, promising to tell her the full story later.
Wen Bin was overwhelmed, heartbroken that her mother had never shared the painful truth about their difficult past and her noble lineage. Because Mr. Li Hu had knocked them unconscious as part of a hidden test designed to evaluate their vigilance, none of the three teams won the competition. The actual winners were Liu Xiaotong and Zhu Yongjia. Wen Bin, however, was indifferent to the outcome; her sole desire was to learn everything from Ding Ruo Yang.
So, Ding Ruo Yang and Li Hu recounted the entire story of what had happened years ago. With tears streaming down her face, Wen Bin learned for the first time that her surname was Xue and that she had a truly great father. Li Hu, a man of deep loyalty, then revealed the memorial tablet of his beloved teacher, Xue Ding Kun, which he had secretly kept. Seeing her father’s tablet, Wen Bin knelt in reverence, weeping profusely.
After Lei Zexin regained consciousness, Li Hu truthfully revealed his identity as Li Hu, a close friend and former schoolmate of Lei Zexin's late elder brother, Lei Ze Xun. Lei Zexin realized Li Hu was one of the few who survived the incident years ago, and Li Hu admitted he was now a fugitive, secretly investigating the past. Ding Ruo Yang urged Lei Zexin to trust Li Hu and help him keep his true identity a secret.
Later, Han Shengzhi hosted a gathering at his home for his schoolmates, even inviting Mu Xiao Man to perform music. He was no longer the overbearing President they once knew but a genuinely friendly host eager to strengthen their friendships. During the party, Han Shengzhi urged Feng Chengjun to meet with his sister, Han Shumin. Feng Chengjun agreed, and this time, he finally clarified his position to Han Shumin.
He told her he could not go against his own heart or deceive her sincere feelings, and thus, he wished to call off their engagement. Han Shumin was heartbroken, her spirit crushed. After Feng Chengjun left, she frantically ate food, hoping to numb her profound pain. Meanwhile, an unnamed antagonist discussed with a subordinate the continued search for Ke Shi Jun, who had not been seen since sustaining an injury.
They also noted that a "short man in black" was frequently distributing account books and contents of the Book of Ten Thousand Words, implying an ongoing exposure of corruption. The antagonist considered framing the short man in black for more murders to lure him out, while also planning to eliminate other individuals on a hidden list. Wen Bin later spoke with Feng Chengjun, still seeking the deeper truth about her family's past. She expressed her confusion and sorrow, longing for complete answers about her identity and history. Feng Chengjun promised to face any future challenges with her.
Episode 33 Recap
Wenxi awakens with a hazy memory of the previous night's drinking, unsure if she said anything inappropriate. Feng Chengjun confirms her drunken state, revealing that he has rejected Ms. Han Shumin's marriage proposal because he has fallen for someone else—a person Wenxi also knows. Unaware that Feng Chengjun is referring to her and knows her true identity, Wenxi becomes indignant, accusing him of being a womanizer, fickle, and abandoning old affections for new ones.
Feng Chengjun simply smiles at her outburst. Meanwhile, at the Han residence, Ms. Han Shumin is dejected when her mother tries to show her fabrics for a wedding dress. She reveals to her parents that Feng Chengjun has decided against the marriage proposal. Her father, Han Zheng Liang, is enraged by this perceived insult to the Han family's honor, especially since he had already announced the impending union to many aristocratic families.
He storms to confront Feng Jichang, Feng Chengjun's father, accusing Feng Chengjun of treating the Han family as dirt. Feng Jichang, claiming he only just learned of the matter, apologizes for his son's actions and suggests there might be a misunderstanding, proposing to let the young people decide for themselves. However, Han Zheng Liang dismisses this, declaring the insult is remembered and will be "returned doubly."
A series of mysterious deaths plague Yunzhou, all victims seemingly connected to Gu Da Chao's business dealings. The local authorities, believing the culprit to be the "person in black" who distributes forbidden leaflets, announce a reward for anyone who reports the killer, whose portrait will be displayed. The King, alarmed by the continuous murders, dispatches a Special Envoy to investigate. The Special Envoy orders Head General Gu Zhe Yuan and Commander Lei Zexin to increase night patrols.
Attendant Officer Han, Han Zheng Liang, proposes that the Imperial Brigade disguise themselves as civilians to lower the killer's guard, a strategy the Special Envoy approves. Mu Xiao Man reveals to Lei Zexin that she saw someone leave Han Zheng Liang's study and don "night traveling clothes," suspecting this person is linked to the murders. Lei Zexin asserts that Han Zheng Liang has hired someone to impersonate him and frame him, vowing to uncover the truth.
Han Zheng Liang, meanwhile, promises a promotion to an assassin if he eliminates a target. He instructs the assassin that the Imperial Brigade will be disguised and unarmed, making the attack easy, and orders a quick retreat after the deed. That night, Head General Gu Zhe Yuan leads his disguised Imperial Brigade in an ambush. The assassin attacks, gravely wounding Gu Zhe Yuan. Just as he is in peril, Lei Zexin, clad in black, arrives and fiercely engages the assassin.
With the arrival of more Imperial Brigade soldiers, the assassin flees, pursued by Lei Zexin. In a surprising turn, Mu Xiao Man, also in black, appears and joins Lei Zexin in confronting the assassin. However, Han Zheng Liang, anticipating this, arrives with his own guards, ready to eliminate all loose ends. Han Zheng Liang commands his guards to unleash a volley of arrows, instantly killing his own assassin. Mu Xiao Man is also wounded during the assault.
Lei Zexin urges her to flee, offering to stay and face the guards alone, but she refuses. Mu Xiaoman flees into Yun Shang Academy. Lei Zexin, now gravely wounded and a primary target as the "person in black," is pursued but manages to escape into the mountains. There, Mr. Liu, a teacher from Yun Shang Academy, appears and instructs Lei Zexin to hide, offering to lure the pursuing officers away himself.
Lei Zexin conceals himself, and Mr. Liu successfully diverts the soldiers. Lei Zexin then makes his way back to Yun Shang Academy, where he collapses. Subsequently, a soldier reports to Commander Lei Zexin's unit that a "person in black" has fled into Yun Shang Academy. Lei Zexin, acting as a commander, seizes the opportunity to order his forces not to disturb the sacred academy grounds and to withdraw.
Meanwhile, Feng Chengjun and Yu Lexuan are admiring the moon, while Wenxi, frustrated about Feng Chengjun's new romantic interest, secretly plots to investigate her father's case. She then encounters a wounded Mu Xiao Man seeking refuge. Wenxi quickly hides Mu Xiao Man in the woodshed, instructing her to remain silent, and promises to get medicine. As she leaves, Feng Chengjun and Yu Lexuan encounter patrolling guards searching for a "person in black."
Feng Chengjun cleverly deflects their suspicion by claiming to be practicing martial arts, while Mr. Liu unexpectedly appears and corroborates their story, successfully diverting the guards. Later, Feng Chengjun and Yu Lexuan discover Lei Zexin, unconscious and injured. As they hide him, Feng Chengjun finds the Book of 10 Thousand Words in Lei Zexin's medicine box, realizing that Lei Zexin is the wanted criminal who spreads the forbidden texts. Yu Lexuan calmly confirms he knew this "a long time ago."
Upon learning that two "persons in black" had entered the Yun Shang Academy, Han Zheng Liang furiously leads his men to raid the grounds. Despite the teachers' protests, who accuse him of disregarding royal decrees by bringing soldiers into the sacred academy, Han Zheng Liang asserts he is merely following Master Wang's orders to apprehend a "heinous criminal" responsible for spreading forbidden texts and injuring Head General Gu Zhe Yuan.
He threatens the teachers with a "death penalty" if they harbor the culprit, arguing that the severely injured criminal would be easy to identify. Amidst this chaos, Wenxi, who was on her way to get medicine for Mu Xiao Man, discovers Han Zheng Liang's search. She quickly seeks out Han Shengzhi, explaining Mu Xiao Man's perilous situation and deducing that she is the target.
Han Shengzhi immediately acts, confronting the soldiers near Mu Xiao Man's hiding place and using his status to make them retreat, ensuring her safety for the moment. Wenxi then entrusts the gravely injured Mu Xiao Man to Han Shengzhi's care, urging him to treat her wounds and prepare his brother, Sheng Xiong, for potential further confrontations. Han Zheng Liang's forces escalate their search, demanding that all students strip for injury checks.
The students vociferously refuse, protesting the humiliation and accusing the soldiers of violating the academy's sanctity. As the situation devolves into violence with soldiers beating the protesting students, Feng Chengjun, Yu Lexuan, and Lei Zexin remain hidden, debating their next move. Lei Zexin, the true wanted criminal, offers to surrender, but Feng Chengjun quickly dismisses the idea, pointing out that Lei Zexin's consistent presence in the academy on critical nights would expose their ruse.
Wenxi then volunteers to take the blame, asserting she is the most suitable, even if it means undergoing the humiliating search. However, Feng Chengjun rejects her offer due to the invasive nature of the search. With time running out, Feng Chengjun suddenly steps forward, proclaiming himself to be the wanted criminal. An academy official expresses disbelief, vouching for Feng Chengjun's character.
Despite this, Feng Chengjun produces two forbidden books and a blood-stained garment as "evidence," claiming he acted alone to spare the academy. He further incriminates himself by stating he was at the Han Manor on the admission ceremony night to spread the forbidden books, naming fellow students Gu Ziming and Lin Bingshen as witnesses.
Han Zheng Liang summons Gu Ziming and Lin Bingshen, who reluctantly confirm seeing Feng Chengjun at the Han Manor that night, though they deny seeing him spread any books. Ignoring their partial denial, Han Zheng Liang declares the case closed with "witnesses and proof" and a confession. He orders Feng Chengjun to be imprisoned, stating that while he is angered by the broken engagement with his daughter, this is a matter of state law, not personal vendetta. He asserts that Feng Chengjun is now an imperial court criminal, and not even Feng Jichang or Wang Hao Zhen can save him.
Episode 34 Recap
Han Shumin frantically pleaded with her father, Han Zhengliang, to spare Feng Chengjun, insisting he could not be the murderer. Her mother tried to intercede, urging Han Shumin to consider her father's wishes, but Han Shumin stood firm, asserting that everyone knew Feng Chengjun's good character. Han Zhengliang, enraged, declared that even if Feng Chengjun was not a murderer, his broken promise of marriage had made the Han family a laughing stock. He vowed to teach Feng Chengjun a lesson.
Han Shumin retorted that these were separate matters and accused her father of using the situation for a personal vendetta, leading Han Zhengliang to slap her and declare the Feng family their enemies, demanding she forget Feng Chengjun. Meanwhile, Xue Wenxi, deeply concerned about Feng Chengjun, intended to visit him. Yu Lexuan, however, stopped her, explaining that as the governor’s son and a valued student of Master Wang, Feng Chengjun would be safe if Han Zhengliang could not find evidence.
Yu Lexuan warned that a visit from Xue Wenxi would only provide Han Zhengliang with leverage, potentially undoing all their efforts. He pondered Feng Chengjun's sudden confession, wondering if he had a hidden motive or was protecting someone, possibly to prevent Xue Wenxi's true identity from being exposed after Gu Dachao's words. Yu Lexuan advised Xue Wenxi not to inform Lei Zexin, fearing his impetuous nature would lead him to confess.
At that moment, Lei Zexin awoke, demanding to know what they were planning. He adamantly denied killing anyone, explaining that he and another person distributing flyers had been tricked and lured into Han Zhengliang's trap. Yu Lexuan mused that the person who led them into the trap might have been part of Han Zhengliang's pre-arranged scheme, implying the murderer was sent by Han Zhengliang. Separately, Han Shengzhi carefully tended to Mu Xiao Man after she regained consciousness.
He offered her medicine and tenderly reminded her that he had bought the house for them because she once wished for a home of their own, envisioning their future together there. Mu Xiao Man, however, stated she had no future. She revealed that her family had been wrongfully accused and killed many years ago, and the government had failed to investigate thoroughly. Her sole aim was now to seek revenge and redress the injustice.
Han Shengzhi asked if her past affection for him was solely a means to rescue her family. Mu Xiao Man honestly admitted her sincerity when they were together but emphasized that now her only desire was to fight for justice for her family. At Yun Shang Academy, Principal Feng convened a meeting with all teachers and scholars, expressing his outrage at Han Zhengliang's unauthorized intrusion and the harm inflicted upon a scholar.
He asserted that as principal, he must protect the academy and its students, and called for everyone to unite against Han Zhengliang's actions. The scholars vociferously agreed. Principal Feng further stated that their investigation into Commander Gu's assassination attempt proved Feng Chengjun's innocence, a finding he had reported to the state government. He hoped Master Wang, as the appointed special envoy, would clear Feng Chengjun’s name.
Mo Xiaohuan then stepped forward, announcing that his grandfather was Lord Mo, a founding minister, and promised that Lord Mo would intervene to ensure Han Zhengliang was severely punished. Meanwhile, Han Zhengliang confronted Governor Feng Jichang, formally announcing the cancellation of Han Shumin's engagement to Feng Chengjun. He accused Feng Chengjun of maliciously spreading seditious propaganda and attempting to disrupt social stability.
Feng Jichang demanded proof, asserting that his son, having a deep bond with him, would never betray him, especially since the bribery list on the flyer clearly bore Feng Jichang's name. Han Zhengliang countered that this was Feng Chengjun's cunning way of clearing his own name, but he had failed to anticipate that all individuals connected to the ledger would subsequently be assassinated, implying Feng Jichang's involvement in these murders to protect himself and his son.
Feng Jichang vehemently denied the accusations of murder but admitted that the record clearly showed his own acceptance of bribes. He declared his intention to confess directly to Master Wang and demand a thorough investigation of all officials listed, starting with himself. Just then, Lord Mo arrived, sternly addressing Han Zhengliang. Lord Mo accused Han Zhengliang of violating His Majesty's edict by leading troops into the academy and assaulting a scholar, thereby becoming a criminal himself.
He asserted that Han Zhengliang, as a criminal, was unqualified to investigate the case. Supported by other officials, Lord Mo proposed that Master Wang preside over the case. Master Wang, the special envoy, agreed. He acknowledged Feng Jichang’s courageous act of sacrificing himself to expose Han Zhengliang's extensive network of cronies and dismantle his power in Yunzhou.
Master Wang assured Feng Jichang that his name would be cleared once the matter settled, and Feng Jichang accepted responsibility for a past wrongful case. Unbeknownst to them, Xue Wenxi had gone to the county yamen and turned herself in, claiming she was the one who spread the forbidden books and that Feng Chengjun had merely covered for her. She presented two identical copies of the flyers with matching handwriting as proof.
The official noted that two people, one tall and one short, had distributed the flyers, implying both Xue Wenxi and Feng Chengjun were involved. Yu Lexuan rushed to the yamen after hearing the news from a friend. He tried to dissuade Xue Wenxi, pointing out that the incident was clearly a conspiracy and someone needed to remain outside to uncover the truth.
Xue Wenxi, however, was resolute in her decision to save her friends, confident that she possessed something of interest to her captors that would ensure their safe return. Lei Zexin, having recovered, was talking to his father, Lei Qi Ying. Lei Qi Ying revealed that he was the masked man who had saved Xue Wenxi previously and explained that Xue Wenxi's master had severed ties with him years ago to protect his own family.
Lei Zexin apologized for his past misunderstanding, and Lei Qi Ying reassured him, urging him to live a safe and successful life. Lei Qi Ying also asserted that Lei Zexin had only distributed flyers and that the true murderer was someone else. He then met with Gu Zhe Yuan, who was recovering, and confirmed that the assassin had a distinct scar on his hand.
Lei Qi Ying revealed the assassin to be Commander Xu, who had since died from arrow wounds. Gu Zhe Yuan, realizing the implications, concluded that only Han Zhengliang could have commanded Commander Xu. Master Wang reviewed Feng Chengjun's case, presenting testimonies from teachers, scholars, and guards proving Feng Chengjun had not left the academy that night. He also noted that Lei Zexin's claims of an injured flyer distributor did not match Feng Chengjun's lack of injuries, thus proving his innocence.
Han Zhengliang admitted his oversight, stating he had not investigated further because Feng Chengjun had confessed. Master Wang then inquired about Wen Bin's (Xue Wenxi’s disguised identity) self-incrimination and ordered him to be transferred to the state government for personal interrogation. Master Wang also acknowledged that officials listed in the ledger had confirmed Feng Jichang's bribery. Feng Jichang admitted his guilt to Master Wang and encouraged Feng Chengjun to uphold justice regardless of the outcome.
Lei Zexin, upon hearing about Feng Chengjun and Wen Bin, became agitated, eager to save them. Lei Qi Ying calmed him, revealing that Feng Chengjun had already been released and Wen Bin was now under Master Wang's direct care, assuring his safety. However, Han Zhengliang secretly ordered Magistrate Tian to have Wen Bin (Xue Wenxi) killed while being escorted to the state government, to eliminate future problems. Although Feng Chengjun was cleared, he soon learned from Magistrate Tian that Wen Bin had already been transferred to the state government.
Episode 35 Recap
Wen Bin, who was in disguise as a male scholar, was being escorted when suddenly, masked figures appeared and brutally attacked the guards. Wen Bin managed to escape with Mu Xiao Man. Lei Zexin arrived, intercepting the pursuers and urging Mu Xiao Man to take Wen Bin to safety while he held off the attackers. Mu Xiao Man refused to leave, declaring they would face death together.
Faced with her stubborn loyalty, Wen Bin confessed her true identity, revealing that she was a woman. Mu Xiao Man was taken aback, realizing the depth of her mistaken affections. As the pursuers closed in, Wen Bin courageously shielded Mu Xiao Man, sustaining a severe injury. Just then, Han Shengzhi, Feng Chengjun, and Yu Lexuan arrived, and the attackers, recognizing Han Shengzhi as their young master, ceased their pursuit.
Han Shengzhi took Mu Xiao Man away, while Feng Chengjun was left to protect the injured Wen Bin. As they found a moment alone, Feng Chengjun confessed that he had overheard Wen Bin’s conversation with Gu Da Chao on the night Gu Da Chao was killed and had known her true gender ever since. He expressed concern for her safety, suggesting she leave Yun Shang Academy.
Wen Bin, frustrated by being tricked into the academy only to be told to leave, sarcastically threatened to go home and marry someone to support her family, a notion Feng Chengjun vehemently rejected. Soon after, Lei Zexin and Yu Lexuan arrived, visibly relieved that Wen Bin’s injuries were not life-threatening. However, they conveyed grim news: Han Zheng Liang had begun to issue warrants for Wen Bin and her family.
Fortunately, Lei Zexin's father, Lei Qi Ying, had already found a secure place to hide Wen Bin's mother and sister. The immediate priority was for Wen Bin to meet Master Wang to prove her innocence. Meanwhile, Mr. Ding informed Master Wang that Wen Bin was, in fact, Xue Ding Kun’s son. This revelation heightened Master Wang's interest, as he had found Wen Bin familiar from their first meeting.
He immediately instructed Lei Qi Ying to find Wen Bin and bring her to him, before Han Zheng Liang could discover her identity and potentially harm her. When Imperial Brigade guards, likely alerted by Han Zheng Liang, arrived to arrest Wen Bin, Lei Qi Ying skillfully intervened, asserting Master Wang's authority and personally escorting Wen Bin to the special envoy.
Before Master Wang, Lei Zexin bravely confessed to being the sole distributor of the banned books, wanting to clear Wen Bin’s name. His father, Lei Qi Ying, tried to interject, fearing punishment for his son, but Master Wang instead praised Lei Zexin for his honesty and loyalty. Master Wang revealed his own liberal views, stating that he never found the content of the banned books objectionable and believed many of their ideas were worth promoting.
He explained that back then, Governor Feng and Attendant Officer Han had insisted on banning the books, and as a special envoy, he lacked the authority to overturn their decision. Yu Lexuan then proposed a clever solution: since possessing banned books was a crime, Han Zheng Liang, who also secretly held them, should be held to the same standard. Wen Bin then reminded them that Principal Feng had previously taken a banned book from Han Zheng Liang’s residence.
The next day, Yu Lexuan led the scholars to Han Shengzhi's residence, ostensibly for a friendly visit. Their true objective was to search Han Zheng Liang's study for banned books. During the visit, Feng Chengjun encountered Han Xiao Man and took the opportunity to apologize for past misunderstandings, asking for her help in saving Wen Bin, which she readily agreed to.
While Han Shengzhi was away, the scholars stumbled upon and discovered a collection of banned books in Han Zheng Liang’s study. Armed with this substantial evidence, Principal Feng confronted Han Zheng Liang before Master Wang. Principal Feng argued that if Wen Bin was guilty of disseminating the banned content, then Han Zheng Liang, who possessed many such books, should face the same charges. Han Zheng Liang vehemently denied the accusation, claiming he was being framed by the scholars.
However, Master Wang, recognizing the undeniable evidence, shrewdly put the decision to Han Zheng Liang himself: should these books remain banned? Cornered, Han Zheng Liang had no choice but to agree to lift the ban and convene with the nobles to discuss the repealing the prohibition. This decision effectively cleared Wen Bin of all charges. Following the resolution of the immediate crisis, Master Wang summoned the Four Gentlemen of Yun Shang.
He announced that the imperial court had lifted the ban on Xue Ding Kun's teachings and was no longer pursuing the case of his alleged treason. He then inquired if any of them was Xue Ding Kun’s son. Wen Bin stepped forward and confirmed her identity. Master Wang spoke highly of Xue Ding Kun, remembering him as an ambitious, upright scholar who championed the nation and its people. Wen Bin, encouraged, asked why such a man had been executed.
Master Wang explained that while Xue Ding Kun's educational reforms had gained widespread support, the memorial he submitted to the late emperor contained words that were interpreted as treasonous, leading to his downfall. Wen Bin pleaded for the truth of her father's case to be revealed to the world, and Master Wang, having already reported the matter to the Emperor, announced that the case would become the subject of the upcoming imperial examination for the Four Gentlemen of Yun Shang.
Principal Feng expressed concerns about the difficulty of the task, but Master Wang expressed confidence in his top students. Feng Chengjun, whose father, Feng Jichang, was suspected in the case, declared his resolve to seek the truth from him, even if it meant exposing his own father. Feng Chengjun visited his father, Feng Jichang, who was under detention.
Feng Jichang was emotional, admitting that the secret had burdened him for twenty years and expressing his regret for not revealing it sooner to protect his son. He explained that Xue Ding Kun's "ten thousand words petition" advocating equal education for nobles, commoners, and women, had gained twenty wealthy families as co-signatories. However, before it could reach the Emperor, someone falsely accused them of treason.
Feng Jichang recounted how he and Han Zheng Liang intercepted Xue Ding Kun, and upon opening the memorial, found it filled with treasonous statements. He stated that Han Zheng Liang then took the memorial and submitted it to the imperial court. Feng Chengjun questioned if the memorial had been switched. Feng Jichang clarified that if it had been, it must have happened before he read it. He then denied ordering Xue Ding Kun's execution.
Feng Jichang confessed that Han Zheng Liang, leveraging his military control and influence over Yun's powerful families, had pressured him, a newcomer with weak political standing, to handle the investigation. Han Zheng Liang had even forged Feng Jichang’s official documents, leading to the tragedy. Feng Jichang revealed his hesitation at the time was due to fear of implicating more people, especially the scholars of Yun Shang.
Lei Zexin, with assistance from Gu Zhe Yuan, successfully located and apprehended Ke Shi Jun, bringing him before Master Wang. Ke Shi Jun confessed that Han Zheng Liang had coerced him to swap Xue Ding Kun's original memorial with a falsified, treasonous one, using an identical box and seal during the interception. Adding to the weight of evidence, two assassins separately confessed that Han Zheng Liang had ordered them to kill.
Gu Zhe Yuan further testified that Han Zheng Liang had instructed Commander Xu to murder Gu Da Chao, the doctor, and frame the flyer distributor. Gu Zhe Yuan also presented incriminating confessions from Han Zheng Liang's subordinates detailing his extensive corruption and bribery.
Mu Xiao Man bravely corroborated, testifying that she personally witnessed a man emerge from Han Zheng Liang's study, change into a black suit, and carry out the assassination, and that Han Zheng Liang had also attempted to silence her. Faced with overwhelming evidence from multiple sources, Han Zheng Liang finally admitted his guilt.
With the truth revealed, Master Wang dismissed Han Zheng Liang from his post and commended Feng Chengjun for his significant contributions to uncovering the facts of Xue Ding Kun's long-misjudged case. Feng Jichang was released, and acknowledging his own inaction in the past that led to the prolonged injustice, he requested Master Wang to demote him to a commoner as a public deterrent, signifying a new era where the future of Yun belongs to its young people.
Episode 36 (Ending) Recap
After surviving a recent ordeal, Xue Wenxi, Feng Chengjun, Lei Zexin, and Yu Lexuan finally returned, bringing relief to everyone who had been worried. Meanwhile, Han Shengzhi, feeling utterly dejected after his downfall, was found drinking alone. Mu Xiaoman appeared, urging him to stop. She reminded him that he was not left with nothing, for he still had her.
She firmly told him to pull himself together, recalling his promise to give her a home and protect her, expressing her belief that he was not a coward. Later, as Feng Chengjun helped Xue Wenxi hang wet blankets in the courtyard, Lei Zexin watched them, holding a beautiful hairpin in his hand. Yu Lexuan, sensing Lei Zexin's hesitation, playfully snatched the hairpin, then it was passed to Xue Wenxi.
Upon seeing the character "Shu" engraved on it, Xue Wenxi mistakenly concluded that Lei Zexin had a beloved whose name contained "Shu," unaware that the hairpin was intended for her. When asked for her opinion, Xue Wenxi, feigning ignorance, said she couldn't know what a girl would like since she wasn't one. Feng Chengjun then remarked that if a girl truly liked someone, she would cherish any gift from them.
Lei Zexin, increasingly irritated by Feng Chengjun's presence, expressed a strong desire to skip classes to avoid him. Yu Lexuan, teasingly suggesting Lei Zexin was "wussing out," pointed out that if Lei Zexin were to harm Feng Chengjun, it would deeply upset Xue Wenxi. He then advised Lei Zexin to let things unfold naturally, as he couldn't keep an eye on them forever. That night, Xue Wenxi confronted Feng Chengjun about his distraction during their studies.
Feng Chengjun admitted he couldn't control himself, feeling as if his soul was being drawn away. Xue Wenxi warned him that if he continued, she would ignore him, but promised a reward if he focused on his studies. Although they both agreed to study, neither could sleep. They eventually got up to read together. The next day, Xue Wenxi appeared in female attire, veiled.
Feng Chengjun initially did not recognize her, but upon her removing the veil, he was visibly stunned by her beauty. As they strolled past a jewelry shop, Xue Wenxi admired a hairpin. Feng Chengjun, wanting to buy all the accessories for her, was interrupted by the unexpected appearance of Mr. Chao. Annoyed and embarrassed, Xue Wenxi angrily walked away. Feng Chengjun rushed after her, lamenting that shopping with "Little Brother" (her male disguise, Wen Bin) used to be much simpler.
Xue Wenxi, having caught up to him, firmly told him that she was no longer "Wen Bin," but Xue Wenxi, and he needed to adapt to her true identity as a woman. That evening, Feng Chengjun playfully reminded Xue Wenxi of the reward she promised. To his surprise, Xue Wenxi gently kissed him on the cheek. Delighted, Feng Chengjun began to chase her playfully around the room. Lei Zexin, observing their intimate antics from outside, felt a pang of despair.
He later sat alone on the rooftop, gazing at the moon, murmuring that his own resignation had inadvertently brought Feng Chengjun and Xue Wenxi together. After the imperial examination concluded, everyone gathered for a celebratory feast. Mr. Ding announced his impending return to the imperial court and revealed that Master Wang wished for Principal Feng to join the court as well.
While serving in the court had been Principal Feng's long-cherished aspiration, he now expressed a greater desire to remain at the academy, finding more meaning in educating the scholars than in holding office. During the banquet, Lei Zexin stepped out for a moment of solitude, and Xue Wenxi soon followed to keep him company. Knowing he was not her intended love, Lei Zexin conveyed that no matter what, he would always be her family.
As the scholars prepared to embark on their separate official paths, Feng Chengjun, Lei Zexin, Yu Lexuan, and Xue Wenxi shared a final farewell drink. In a moment of tipsiness, Lei Zexin inadvertently revealed his knowledge of Xue Wenxi's true gender. Yu Lexuan, no longer able to hide, admitted that he had gone to considerable lengths to help conceal Xue Wenxi's identity. Startled, Xue Wenxi and Feng Chengjun pressed them for an explanation.
However, the two men merely chuckled, feigning drunkenness and evading direct answers, hinting that some truths were better left veiled. One year later, Mr. Ding accompanied Master Wang on an inspection tour. Xue Wenbin, Xue Wenxi's true brother, had taken up an official post and served as a benevolent local official, deeply loved by his people. Upon meeting the actual Xue Wenbin, Master Wang subtly inquired if Mr. Ding had noticed a significant change in Wen Bin's appearance.
Mr. Ding quickly confessed to having concealed the truth. Master Wang smiled warmly, revealing that he had known about Xue Wenxi's disguise all along. Expressing his joy at seeing both Xue Wenbin and Xue Wenxi achieve success, he decided not to pursue the matter further. He stated that he had realized the truth the first time he looked into their familiar eyes. Having served as a governor for a year, Feng Chengjun returned to Yunzhou with Xue Wenxi.
There, they visited Han Shumin, who had successfully established a Yun Shang Girl Academy. Han Shumin was utterly astonished to discover that the beautiful young woman before her was none other than the former scholar "Wen Bin." Soon after, Feng Chengjun and Xue Wenxi officially married. Dressed in a vibrant red wedding gown, Xue Wenxi entered the bridal chambers with Feng Chengjun, embarking on their life of happiness together.
