I've Fallen For You Recap, Plot, Synopsis
I've Fallen For You Synopsis
Zhao Cuo is a playboy with a domineering personality. He met a female coroner Tian Sanqi by mistake and married her after a series of ludicrous stories. But soon after the marriage, he was involved in an unsolved case.
It led Tian Sanqi and others to start a story of uncovering the conspiracy and solving the mystery.
I've Fallen For You Recap
Episode 1 Recap
The annual Peach Blossom Festival was approaching in Taoyuan City, a time when boys and girls aged eighteen would exchange name tokens and make lifelong agreements under the blessing of the God of Paradise. Meanwhile, Zhao Quandui, the Taifu Magistrate of the southern city, was also hosting a beauty contest to find a suitable wife for his son, Zhao Cuo, known as "Whirly of Southern City." However, Zhao Cuo had stood him up.
In Shifang Village, Sanqi, the daughter of the local mortuary, faced societal disdain due to her family's profession and her own unusual passion for autopsies. Her parents, worried about her future, were arranging her marriage to Wang Mazi. Sanqi, however, yearned for an immortal brother she had known since childhood, with whom she had exchanged name tokens under an old locust tree, promising to reunite when she turned eighteen.
Unwilling to marry Wang Mazi, Sanqi decided to take matters into her own hands. Guided by what she perceived as a sign from the old locust tree, she fled Shifang Village to seek her childhood sweetheart in the southern city. Zhao Cuo, a notorious playboy and "the first evil master in southern city," was enjoying himself at a brothel, much to his father's chagrin. Word reached him that his father, Zhao Quandui, was coming to find him.
Amidst the chaos, Zhao Cuo ordered his men to fly a man who had bothered a courtesan named Leimo'er, like a "human kite," directing him to fly high towards his own house. Onlookers gossiped about Zhao Cuo's antics, solidifying his infamous reputation. Upon arriving in the southern city, Sanqi noticed a grimace totem on the "human kite" flying overhead—the very symbol her immortal brother had told her about. Believing she had found him, she rushed into the brothel.
Inside, she confronted Zhao Cuo, who was engaged in a heated argument with his father, Zhao Quandui. Her attempts to reconnect were met with confusion and disdain. Zhao Cuo, assuming she was another woman sent to avenge a man named Yang Yong, proudly declared the kite was his and dismissed her. Sanqi, showing him her own grimace totem, called him her "immortal brother" and tried to embrace him, but Zhao Cuo denied knowing her, calling her crazy.
She desperately reminded him of their childhood promise, the old locust tree, and the name token, but he repeatedly insisted he didn't recognize her and ordered his guard, Li Jia, to remove her. Sanqi then tried to sing a childhood rhyme to jog his memory, but he remained unmoved, further calling her "nuts" and "crazy." Determined to prove his identity, Sanqi attempted to confirm a red birthmark on his waist, provoking more cries for help from Zhao Cuo.
His father, Zhao Quandui, watched the scene with amusement before finally ordering his men to intervene and drag Sanqi away. As she was being removed, Sanqi vowed to Zhao Cuo that she would see the birthmark clearly. Undeterred, Sanqi continued her search, arriving at Zhao’s Mansion. When a guard informed her that Zhao Cuo was currently on a blind date, she was enraged and demanded to be let in, calling Zhao Cuo a "bad guy."
The guard directed her to the Moon Pavilion, where the "round-table dating conference" was being held. Purchasing some peach blossom rouge, Sanqi applied it, hoping to catch Zhao Cuo’s attention. She entered the pavilion using an invitation for a woman named He Jinxin. There, other women like Hongling, Meizhi, and Xiuji presented their unique talents, from "playing the lute to a cow" to "tasting poison with my own body" and "expressing my love with martial arts."
When it was her turn, Zhao Cuo, initially calling her an "aunt," asked for her talent. She proudly declared her expertise in "autopsy," elaborating on techniques like observing corpses and steaming bones to identify injuries. Surprisingly, Zhao Cuo declared he liked her, leaving his father, Zhao Quandui, to finalize the decision. Despite his initial shock at Zhao Cuo's "strange preference," Zhao Quandui agreed, delighted that his son finally showed interest, and left to prepare the marriage certificate.
Sanqi, as He Jinxin, then approached Zhao Cuo again, this time trying to remind him of their encounter at the brothel. Zhao Cuo recognized her voice but cruelly called her an "ugly girl," claiming he would rather eat the table than marry her. He handed her a mirror, and Sanqi was shocked to see her reflection, disfigured by the exaggerated peach blossom makeup.
Later, Sanqi encountered a masked man named Bai Yifei, who was being chased by a group of women. Mistakenly believing he was her immortal brother, she bravely shielded him from the chasing women and began to reminisce about their childhood, including a memory of him catching fireflies for her. However, Bai Yifei then gently informed her that she had mistaken him for someone else.
Realizing her error, Sanqi quickly departed, left to ponder if Zhao Cuo had truly forgotten her, or if she had been mistaken about his identity all along, despite the shared grimace totem.
Episode 2 Recap
Zhao Cuo adamantly refused to marry He Jinxin, revealing that he had a childhood promise to another young woman whom he was still faithfully awaiting. Meanwhile, He Jinxin's father, who had always dreamed of his daughter marrying into wealth, unexpectedly received a marriage proposal from Zhao Quandui. Overjoyed, he immediately went to the Zhao mansion to discuss the wedding. Zhao Cuo, determined to avoid the marriage, resorted to various schemes.
He even falsely claimed to be afflicted with venereal disease, stating he had only a month to live. However, He Jinxin's father remained unconcerned, simply eager to finalize the marriage as quickly as possible, anticipating his daughter would inherit the Zhao family's riches upon Zhao Cuo's impending death. In Shifang Village, Tian Sanqi, having been brought back home by her father after an attempt to run away, was scolded for sleeping in a coffin.
Her father, lamenting her unusual interest in autopsies that scared away suitors, took her to the old locust tree, a revered "Marriage tree," to pray for her marriage. Sanqi, however, insisted she would only wait for her "immortal brother" at that very tree, refusing to marry anyone else.
Her parents tried to convince her that her immortal brother had drowned years ago, but Sanqi, having examined the body, knew it wasn't him and had found proof of his recent visit, fueling her conviction that he was still alive. A flashback showed a young Sanqi with her immortal brother by the old locust tree.
He revealed he had no name, no parents, and no home, only a master who told him he must one day return to his rightful place. He gave Sanqi a "grimace totem," instructing her to look at it as if it were him when he was absent. He left shortly after, leaving a distraught Sanqi. Back in the present, Zhao Cuo was under house arrest.
After trying to escape over a wall, he was confined by his father, Zhao Quandui, using an "Eighteen-arhat Array" of guards disguised as statues to prevent him from fleeing his wedding. Despite his servant reminding him that all their tricks, including feigning venereal disease, had failed, Zhao Cuo remained resolute, declaring he would marry no one but the girl he was waiting for.
Meanwhile, in Taoyuan City, the Young Lord, He Zhen, expressed his reluctance to marry, explaining to his father, the City Lord, that it was too soon. The City Lord, however, insisted on the marriage, wishing to see his son settled before entrusting him with Taoyuan City.
Unable to find a suitable noblewoman for his picky son, the City Lord, recalling He Zhen's miraculous survival in Shifang Village and his lingering affection for the place, decided to select a bride from there. An envoy was dispatched to Shifang Village, where after dismissing several unsuitable candidates, they found Tian Sanqi. The envoy formally delivered the City Lord's decree, appointing Tian Sanqi as the Young Lord's wife.
Sanqi, initially disbelieving and mistaking the envoy for an actor, protested her ignorance of the Young Lord. Nevertheless, she was promptly dressed in elaborate wedding attire. The villagers, who previously viewed her as a "hoodoo," now marveled at her beauty, calling her a "mountain phoenix." As Sanqi was led into the bridal palanquin, she tearfully bid farewell to her parents.
She questioned what would happen if she refused the marriage, but an attendant sternly informed her that by imperial law, she belonged to the Young Lord, whether alive or dead. Unwilling to break her promise to her immortal brother, Sanqi left a letter and escaped from the wedding procession, running away from her marriage to the Young Lord.
In a separate development, a mysterious group examined the remains of a child, confirming that it was not their intended target due to a congenital defect in the coccyx. They concluded that an assassination attempt eight years prior had failed, and the real target was still alive, having been replaced by a substitute. The group had identified a woman who had contact with the target eight years ago and was also searching for him. They resolved to continue monitoring her, prepared to eliminate the target if any new clues emerged.
Episode 3 Recap
He Jinxin, the intended bride for Zhao Cuo, made a dramatic escape from her sedan chair on the outskirts of the southern city, pretending to need to relieve herself. Later, she was found attempting to hang herself to avoid the marriage. Her parents, however, arrived and urged her to go through with the wedding, revealing a "crafty" plan: they expected Zhao Cuo to die soon, after which He Jinxin could inherit his wealth and remarry for a double dowry.
He Jinxin, though reluctant, eventually agreed to this scheme. Meanwhile, Sanqi, who was searching for her long-lost "little brother," came across He Jinxin in her bridal attire. He Jinxin, believing Sanqi to be a sympathetic stranger, recounted her plight, describing Zhao Cuo as a "villain" suffering from a "flower disease" (a venereal disease), and being "stupid and stubborn," and prone to "committing all manner of crimes."
She also confessed her love for another man, Mr. Zhang, and their plan to commit suicide together if they could not marry. Sanqi realized that He Jinxin was the very person she had once impersonated, an act that had inadvertently led to this arranged marriage. Feeling responsible and compelled to act, Sanqi agreed to take He Jinxin's place in the marriage.
This arrangement also offered Sanqi an opportunity to enter Zhao's Mansion and confirm if Zhao Cuo was indeed her "little brother." They made a pact: Sanqi would impersonate He Jinxin for one month without revealing her true identity, and a special silk bag would contain a plan for her escape after the month was over. Sanqi, upon hearing He Jinxin mention the "flower disease," asked for clarification.
He Jinxin vaguely described it as "something wrong with that part of his body," leading Sanqi to mistakenly believe he had a leg ailment. Sanqi, disguised as He Jinxin, arrived at Zhao's Mansion and the wedding ceremony proceeded. On their wedding night, Zhao Cuo vehemently refused to consummate the marriage, stating he had a childhood sweetheart and would rather die than marry Sanqi (whom he believed was He Jinxin).
He lamented that her presence had caused him to miss an important appointment with his true love. Sanqi, hearing his words, realized that Zhao Cuo was her "little brother" and that he was speaking of "her" as his beloved. Overwhelmed but bound by her agreement with He Jinxin, Sanqi struggled to keep her true identity a secret. Driven by the need to confirm his identity, Sanqi repeatedly tried to get Zhao Cuo to hand over his name token.
After much argument, she tricked him into untying her by pretending to be hungry and promised not to run. However, as soon as she was free, she continued her efforts to seize the name token by force. Zhao Cuo, noticing her flushed face and neck, became convinced that she was "poisonous" and asked her to keep her distance, misunderstanding the nature of the "flower disease" he believed she had.
He reiterated that they could not be husband and wife but suggested they could be friends instead. A flashback then revealed young Sanqi being bullied by other children, crying out for a "heavenly immortal" to help her. A young Zhao Cuo suddenly appeared, falling from a tree, and declared himself a "3,000-year-old immortal" who would be her friend and protector.
He established an "agreement of friends" with young Sanqi, emphasizing loyalty and protection, and comically decreed that he would sleep on the bed while she slept on the floor. Returning to the present, Zhao Cuo (still believing Sanqi to be He Jinxin) told her that as friends, he would protect her and not let anyone bully her.
Sanqi, secretly thrilled to have finally found her "little brother," resolved to protect him in turn, despite her inability to reveal her true identity for the time being. The next morning, Zhao Cuo, seemingly annoyed by her presence, told her to go to work, but Sanqi cheerfully greeted her "little brother." Subsequent events saw Zhao Cuo foolishly losing the family's ancestral house in a rigged gambling match with his "evil associates." When Sanqi attempted to intervene, Zhao Cuo scolded her for her interference. Upon learning of Zhao Cuo's irresponsible actions, Zhao Quandui punished him.
Episode 4 Recap
After a night of shared adversity, a subtle shift in feelings began between Zhao Cuo and Sanqi, though Zhao Cuo remained oblivious. He continued to openly express his annoyance with Sanqi. Meanwhile, Zhao Cuo's attendant, Li Jia, attempting to help, inadvertently created opportunities for Mr. Bai to approach and assist Sanqi, much to Zhao Cuo's hidden jealousy, even as he feigned indifference. Sanqi, aware that the city was searching for the Young Lord’s missing wife, cautiously moved through the streets.
She saw wanted posters depicting an extremely ugly version of the Young Lady, which amused her but also fueled her resolve to find Zhao Cuo. She found Zhao Cuo at a brothel, engaging in a game with Yang Yong. After winning a wine game, Zhao Cuo agreed to a high-stakes dice game, betting his family's ancestral house against Yang Yong.
Li Jia desperately tried to dissuade him, but Zhao Cuo, bolstered by his other attendants, Tiger and Leopard, insisted on his gambling prowess. Yang Yong further provoked Zhao Cuo by demanding the performer Leimo's company, which incensed Zhao Cuo, who then added the condition that if Yang Yong lost, he would have to crawl out through a dog hole and never return.
Sanqi burst in, scolding Zhao Cuo for his reckless gambling and accusing Yang Yong and his companions of trying to harm him. Embarrassed by Sanqi's presence, Zhao Cuo publicly disavowed her, calling her a "dead servant girl" and an "ugly, fat-headed pig-belly." He ordered her to go home, despite the other men's jests about her being his newlywed wife. Sanqi, hurt, reluctantly left, cursing Zhao Cuo.
Nonetheless, Zhao Cuo, having subconsciously heeded Sanqi's earlier advice to "see with his ears," won the dice game, retaining his family's ancestral house. A furious Yang Yong was forced to crawl out of the establishment. That night, Zhao Cuo attempted to sneak into the northern magistrate's Paperwork Room to find and destroy Mr. Bai's notebook. Sanqi, having followed him, expressed concern for his safety.
Zhao Cuo explained his mission, telling her it was to defend his father's honor, and appealed to her loyalty as a friend. Sanqi agreed to help and they both crawled through a dog hole to enter the building. Unable to locate the notebook, Zhao Cuo decided to set the room on fire. As they escaped, Sanqi was caught by guards and accused of arson. However, Mr. Bai intervened, calmly defending her against the accusation.
Unfazed by the fire around them, Mr. Bai introduced himself and offered to get better acquainted, but Sanqi quickly fled. Upon returning home, Zhao Cuo was confronted by his father, who scolded him for fighting and nearly gambling away the ancestral house, reminding him of the family's strict rule against martial arts. His father expressed deep concern for his son's safety, invoking the memory of Zhao Cuo's late mother.
Unrepentant, Zhao Cuo was sentenced to thirty strikes but instead endured a standing punishment, holding heavy buckets of water. Later, Sanqi found him still being punished and brought more water, pretending to water the nearby trees as an act of solidarity and care, much to Zhao Cuo's annoyance. His father, observing Sanqi's actions from a distance, seemed pleased with his daughter-in-law.
Afterward, Sanqi learned from a maid that Zhao Cuo had dramatically changed after a serious illness at the age of ten, and that his mother had passed away shortly after his birth. The next morning, Sanqi tried to serve Zhao Cuo breakfast, but he pushed her away, taunting her about setting the fire. During the meal, Zhao Cuo’s father instructed him to take his wife out.
Zhao Cuo reluctantly agreed, but told Sanqi that in public, she must pretend to be his maid, "Little Wangba," to prevent him from losing face. Sanqi suggested being called "Sanqi" instead, a suggestion Zhao Cuo promptly dismissed. At a cloth shop, Sanqi innocently asked for "maid's clothes," offending the owner who only sold luxurious satin.
Li Jia quickly explained that "Miss Sanqi" had a unique preference for coarse fabric, prompting the owner to reluctantly fetch the "worse cloth" from the back. Zhao Cuo then abruptly left Sanqi, claiming he was going to find food, despite his father's instruction for him to stay with her. Zhao Cuo headed to the Full Moon House. Meanwhile, Li Jia, still trying to get rid of Sanqi, intentionally bumped into a woman, who then accused Sanqi of stealing her wallet.
Sanqi was quickly accosted. Once again, Mr. Bai appeared, returning the woman's missing wallet, which contained one hundred taels of silver, and exonerated Sanqi. Mr. Bai praised Sanqi's unique character and generously offered to redeem her from Zhao Cuo's service, proposing she become his study companion. Sanqi, however, staunchly defended Zhao Cuo, emphasizing their loyal friendship.
When Mr. Bai offered to escort her home, Sanqi declined, explaining she had to wait for Zhao Cuo so they could return together and avoid his father's questions. Mr. Bai then suggested they go to a famous gathering place where many noblemen, including Zhao Cuo, were likely to be found. Zhao Cuo soon arrived at the Full Moon House.
A maid informed him that Leimo had prepared a private viewing boat on the moat for him to enjoy the Full Spring Festival. This festival, celebrated after the Peach Blossom Festival, was a joyful occasion where people released wishing lanterns. Li Jia was dispatched back to the mansion to ensure Sanqi didn't return early and reveal Zhao Cuo's absence to his father. Meanwhile, Sanqi and Mr. Bai also arrived at the festival.
Sanqi made a silent wish for Zhao Cuo to remember and acknowledge her. As the festival progressed, Leimo performed the song "You Live at the End of the Yangtze River." The melody stirred an eerie recognition among the crowd, who remembered it as the song played by the Sifu Troupe four years prior, just before a tragic fire claimed the lives of the entire troupe. The audience grew uneasy, seeing the song as a bad omen.
Suddenly, General Yang's son, Yang Yong, was seen struggling to stand on the edge of the moat before plunging into the water. Panic erupted as people cried out for someone to save him.
Episode 5 Recap
After a body was recovered from the river, the Northern Taifu Magistrate arrived to investigate. The Southern Taifu Magistrate Zhao Quandui initially argued that since the corpse was found on the north side of the river, it was the Northern Taifu Magistrate's case, but he reluctantly agreed to proceed. The coroner's report indicated the deceased had drowned, with a pale complexion, reddish marks, goosebumps, and mud in his nails and mouth, suggesting a struggle in the water.
Witnesses claimed to have seen the man jump into the river, leading the Southern Taifu Magistrate Zhao Quandui to swiftly declare it a suicide and close the case. Later, Zhao Cuo's family expressed concern that his daughter-in-law, He Jinxin, had not returned amidst the recent manic murder. Zhao Cuo, accompanied by Li Jia, went to search for her. They found He Jinxin with Mr. Bai, the Northern Taifu Magistrate's son.
Zhao Cuo, clearly jealous, accused Mr. Bai of trying to steal his servant, but He Jinxin defended Mr. Bai and called Zhao Cuo a bully. Annoyed, Zhao Cuo left, plotting with Li Jia to set up He Jinxin and Mr. Bai on a boat to force them into intimacy, thus making Mr. Bai take her off Zhao Cuo's hands.
Li Jia secretly drilled a hole in their boat, which was filled with mud to leak in the middle of the lake. When the boat began to sink, Mr. Bai, who could not swim, and He Jinxin panicked. Realizing the danger, Zhao Cuo, despite it being commonly known he could not swim, swiftly dove into the water to rescue them.
Afterwards, Mr. Bai questioned how Zhao Cuo knew they were in trouble, to which Zhao Cuo evasively replied he could "tell fortunes," drawing criticism from Mr. Bai for endangering lives. Zhao Cuo then confronted Wen Xiao and Liang Xiangsong at a whorehouse. Wen Xiao and Liang Xiangsong mocked Zhao Cuo, gloating about how they had tricked him into losing his ancestral house and confirming that the death of their accomplice, Yang Yong, did not nullify their written pledge.
In retaliation, Zhao Cuo sent He Jinxin to throw swill on them, declaring he refused to associate with "disgusting pigs." He Jinxin tried to console Zhao Cuo, but he insisted he was happy to spend his money on friends and did not need her intervention. Later, while attending a performance, He Jinxin appeared troubled. Wen Xiao and Liang Xiangsong were also present.
The eerie sound of the ancient guqin piece "You Live Downstream by the Yangtze River" began to play, causing panic. Wen Xiao was found hanged in a locked private room. The Southern Taifu Magistrate Zhao Quandui again tried to quickly close the case as a suicide, but the Northern Taifu Magistrate insisted on a thorough investigation. Evidence showed the room was locked from the inside, and no one had entered or exited before an old music master discovered the body.
The coroner confirmed Wen Xiao died from hanging. Despite public fear of "ghosts killing" linked to the Sifu Troupe fire three years ago and the repeated playing of the same ominous music, Zhao Quandui dismissed these superstitions and ruled it a suicide.
Leimo, the performer, tearfully confessed that she had lied about where she got the music score; she obtained it from an old music master and played it, unaware of its dark history, and her procuress had pressured her to hide the truth. Rumors quickly spread throughout the southern city about the Sifu Troupe's fire, with people fearing it was the work of vengeful spirits.
Determined to restore order and his reputation, Southern Taifu Magistrate Zhao Quandui secretly tasked a Yamen runner with connections to Leimo to gather more information. He Jinxin, Mr. Bai, and Li Jia continued their investigation. They revisited Yang Yong's drowning, concluding it was a suicide based on the autopsy and witness accounts. He Jinxin confronted the old music master, who had originally given Leimo the controversial score.
He confessed that he had not killed anyone, and He Jinxin quickly corroborated this, pointing out his severe leg ailment would prevent him from hanging someone. The old music master then revealed he had found a note on Wen Xiao's body before the authorities arrived. The note stated: "I already know the secret of the fire three years ago. Come to the whorehouse's guest room with bank notes of 3,000 taels of silver."
He Jinxin realized that Wen Xiao had been planning to meet someone about this. The old music master then revealed that he had overheard Yang Yong, Wen Xiao, and a third accomplice arguing about Zhao Cuo's ancestral house, which they had acquired by tricking him. The argument escalated, with Wen Xiao and the third man reminding Yang Yong of their joint involvement in the Sifu Troupe fire three years prior, implying they were responsible for it.
The old music master had obtained the "You Live Downstream by the Yangtze River" score from a Mr. Zhang at a tailor store, intending to scare the trio, not to kill Yang Yong. After Yang Yong's unexpected death, he attempted to blackmail Wen Xiao, before Wen Xiao also died. He Jinxin pressed for the identity of the third accomplice, and the old music master identified him as Liang Xiangsong.
Suddenly, the guqin music of "You Live Downstream by the Yangtze River" resonated again. Rushing to the scene, they found Liang Xiangsong dead, stabbed in the heart, with Zhao Cuo holding the bloodied murder weapon. Zhao Cuo insisted he was innocent, claiming he had received a letter from Liang Xiangsong promising to reveal the truth, but he had fainted upon arrival and awoke to find Liang Xiangsong dead. The public erupted in outrage, demanding Zhao Cuo's severe punishment.
Southern Taifu Magistrate Zhao Quandui tried to protect his son, but the Northern Taifu Magistrate intervened, taking over the case and reminding Zhao Quandui of the conflict of interest. A Yamen runner confirmed the wound on Liang Xiangsong matched Zhao Cuo's sword, and Zhao Cuo could not produce the letter he claimed to have received. The Northern Taifu Magistrate accused Zhao Cuo of killing all three men, using the mysterious music as a diversion.
Zhao Cuo's alibis—watching a show on a boat during Yang Yong's death and being in the toilet during Wen Xiao's death—were dismissed by the public, who cited his notorious rivalry with the victims and his close relationship with Leimo as reasons to disbelieve his story. With seemingly overwhelming evidence and public sentiment against him, Zhao Cuo was declared the murderer and ordered to be detained. As his father desperately tried to stop the arrest, He Jinxin stepped forward.
She declared herself Zhao Cuo's wife and vowed to uncover the truth within three days, offering to die alongside him if she failed. Despite Zhao Cuo's objections and the Northern Taifu Magistrate's initial dismissal of her as a mere servant, Mr. Bai intervened, persuading his father to grant He Jinxin three days due to the remaining unresolved mysteries in the case. The Northern Taifu Magistrate agreed, giving He Jinxin a three-day deadline to prove Zhao Cuo's innocence, after which he would face the death penalty. Zhao Cuo was then taken away.
Episode 6 Recap
Zhao Cuo's father worries about his son's murder charges, fearing the loss of their ancestral home. He urges Zhao Cuo to quickly have a child with Jinxin to continue the Zhao family line. Zhao Cuo maintains his innocence, dismissing his father's concerns. Jinxin advises Zhao Cuo to calmly recall the events of the day, confident in her investigative skills. Zhao Cuo recounts arriving at a meeting, waiting for a long time, and leaving when nobody showed up.
As he left, a mist appeared, followed by hallucinations and a purple light, after which he lost consciousness. Jinxin deduces he was poisoned and lured into a trap. They discuss the missing letter, and Mr. Bai arrives, offering his assistance, impressed by Jinxin's earlier resolve. Jinxin explains Zhao Cuo's symptoms, suspecting the murderer used a similar method to incapacitate the victims before staging their deaths as suicides. She notes the victims showed no initial signs of poison.
Mr. Bai, recalling the purple light, suggests checking the study. In the study, they consult a "Collection of Herbal Medicines" and identify the poison as Datura stramonium, a highly toxic plant from the Western Regions, often cultivated near decomposing corpses. Its colorless and tasteless juice causes weakness and hallucinations, including visions of a purple light before unconsciousness.
The book explains that the toxins are naturally expelled from a living body within three days, making them difficult to detect, explaining why initial autopsies missed the poison. Jinxin concludes Yang Yong and Wen Xiao's deaths were murders, not suicides, designed to frame Zhao Cuo, and they go to the mortuary. At the mortuary, Jinxin explains that while the poison leaves no trace in living bodies, it permeates the bone marrow of decomposing corpses, making detection challenging for ordinary coroners.
She performs a specialized autopsy, extracting blood from the victims’ joints, confirming Datura stramonium poisoning, evidenced by blackened bone marrow. This confirms a premeditated serial murder, not suicide, intended to frame Zhao Cuo. However, the mystery of Yang Yong's apparent public drowning remains. By the river, a servant accidentally drops a paper boat, prompting a revelation for Jinxin. She realizes the river's strong currents would carry a body much further than where Yang Yong's body was found.
She throws a doll into the river to test this. The experiment confirms her theory: the doll travels much further than Yang Yong's body did in the same timeframe. She deduces Yang Yong's body was likely secured underwater with an iron chain connected to a gaily decorated boat. The person seen jumping from the boat was an imposter, not Yang Yong. Back at the brothel, Jinxin confronts Leimo, revealing her deductions.
She explains that Leimo knew the music master was blackmailing Yang Yong, Wen Xiao, and Liang Xiangsong, and used this to her advantage, with an accomplice. For Yang Yong, Leimo lured him onto a gaily decorated boat where her accomplice subdued him with Datura stramonium powder and drowned him. Yang Yong's body was chained to the boat to prevent it from surfacing early.
Leimo's accomplice, disguised as Leimo, played "You Live Downstream by the Yangtze River" on the boat, creating an alibi. After a signal, Leimo, disguised as Yang Yong, jumped into the river, creating the illusion of suicide, then secretly returned to unchain the body, which floated downstream. The precise timing of the events exposed the deception. Regarding Wen Xiao's death, Jinxin reveals Leimo wasn't performing but hidden in the room, having overheard the music master's blackmail plot.
Leimo prepared poisoned wine with Datura stramonium, knowing Wen Xiao's love of alcohol and agitated state. After Wen Xiao collapsed, Leimo's accomplice, disguised as a woman, hung him, staging a suicide. They played "You Live Downstream by the Yangtze River" to distract attention, while the accomplice (the substitute Leimo) escaped, maintaining the illusion of a performance. This allowed Leimo to kill Liang Xiangsong and frame Zhao Cuo.
Jinxin points out a scuff mark indicating a secret compartment used to hide the accomplice. She reveals Leimo's true name: Lan Muyan. Lan Muyan confesses to killing Yang Yong, Wen Xiao, and Liang Xiangsong, but claims he couldn't have done it alone. He says his accomplice was used and killed. However, a veiled woman emerges, revealing herself as Lan Mudie, the second murderer. She removes her veil, revealing a scarred face. Lan Muyan recounts their tragic story.
After the Sifu Troupe's successful debut, Lan Mudie's beauty attracted unwanted attention. One night, Yang Yong, Wen Xiao, and Liang Xiangsong assaulted Lan Mudie and set the Full Moon House on fire, killing Lan Muyan's adoptive parents. Lan Muyan saved Lan Mudie, but she was severely disfigured. Unable to seek justice through official channels due to General Yang's influence, they sought revenge. They express no regrets.
When asked about the Datura stramonium and why Zhao Cuo was framed, Lan Muyan warns Jinxin to "watch the mysterious person" before he and Lan Mudie die by poison. With the truth revealed and the murderers identified, Zhao Cuo is exonerated. His servant celebrates his return. Zhao Cuo immediately inquires about Jinxin's whereabouts, their relationship deepening as the cherry blossoms bloom in the Zhao mansion courtyard.
Episode 7 Recap
Zhao Cuo reflecting on past friendships and Leimo's recent betrayal, contemplating loyalty and betrayal. Sanqi, unwavering in her devotion, considers herself his wife and vows to protect him. Before the main events, Sanqi, disguised as Mr. Sanqi, continues her heroic acts, aiding ordinary citizens and displaying her gambling prowess, even challenging the top gambler in the southern city. Zhao Cuo awakens to find Sanqi sleeping nearby.
After confirming nothing untoward happened, Sanqi thanks him for a past rescue and, instead of requesting his name tally, asks him on a date, which he accepts. He Jinxin, now accepted into Zhao's household, is shown diligently sewing for Zhao Cuo. Zhao Cuo is preoccupied with a cherry tree that hasn't bloomed, triggering a childhood memory and a promise linked to its eighth bloom.
His frustration boils over when the cherry blossoms finally open, prompting him to seek out "that girl." Zhao Cuo arrives at the riverside to find Sanqi waiting, having patiently waited all night for their date and bringing him his favorite warm Wang Bo pancake. Moved by her dedication, Zhao Cuo expresses concern for her safety, gently chiding her for staying out alone all night, and pulls her close to warm her.
Back at the mansion, Sanqi humorously demands Zhao Cuo's name tally, citing a village custom mandating its exchange after an intimate night to avoid being punished. Zhao Cuo playfully gives her an empty silk bag, instructing her to open it only after he leaves, tricking her again. Escaping the mansion, Zhao Cuo encounters He Jinxin being harassed by debt collectors. He rescues her, instantly captivating her. Smitten, He Jinxin bombards him with questions about his identity, family, and marital status.
As Zhao Cuo tries to leave, Sanqi arrives. He Jinxin presses Sanqi for Zhao Cuo's true identity; Sanqi improvises, claiming Zhao Cuo is her "old uncle." Misunderstanding their relationship, He Jinxin joyfully declares her intention to become Sanqi's "aunt" and rushes off to pursue Zhao Cuo further, leaving Zhao Cuo muttering about her being a "psycho." Later, He Jinxin discovers the "old uncle" is Zhao Cuo. Furious and feeling deceived, she vows to win him back.
With He Jinxin now a significant presence, a new dynamic emerges. Mr. Bai visits Zhao Cuo's mansion, ostensibly to discuss cases with Sanqi. Zhao Cuo, however, publicly declares He Jinxin his lawfully wedded wife and warns Mr. Bai to stay away from her and his home. He treats He Jinxin with unprecedented respect, ordering his servant Li Jia to pamper her.
He tells her she no longer needs to pretend to be a servant, offers her the bed while he sleeps on the floor, apologizes for a missed appointment, and promises to fulfill her requests, except for giving her his name tally. He Jinxin requests to see his birthmark or bathe with him. Preparing for this, Zhao Cuo awkwardly buys romantic bath flowers, leading to a humorous misunderstanding with the shopkeeper who mistakenly believes Zhao Cuo has kidney problems.
Later, Zhao Cuo wrestles with his growing feelings for He Jinxin, questioning whether she's attracted to his looks or personality. Despite his denials, Li Jia points out his obvious affection. In an emotional moment, Zhao Cuo tears up drawings and releases them with kites, quoting melancholic poetry, leading his servants to believe he's heartbroken. Meanwhile, He Jinxin, following a kite, arrives at Mr. Bai's residence and discovers kites with grimace totems, which Mr. Bai confirms he drew.
Sanqi and Zhao Cuo are again by the river, playfully chasing fireflies. Sanqi calls them "fireworks" and reminds Zhao Cuo of a childhood promise to catch them, but due to his amnesia, he has no recollection. While attempting to catch a firefly, they accidentally kiss.
Episode 8 Recap
While visiting Bai Yifei, Sanqi saw a kite that appeared to be his, featuring a drawing she recognized. Bai Yifei confirmed the kite and drawing were his, explaining that he had met an important girl when he was ten and made a lifelong promise to her. Believing Bai Yifei might be the boy she had been searching for, Sanqi was moved to tears.
However, remembering her promise to He Jinxin to keep her true identity secret and avoid prematurely identifying her childhood acquaintance, Sanqi claimed sand was in her eyes and quickly departed. Upon her return, Sanqi found Zhao Cuo, who awkwardly suggested they bathe and sleep together. He then began to lay down rules for her as his wife, asserting that she must obey him, only smile at him, and treat other men, especially Bai Yifei, with coldness.
His possessions were now hers, he declared, and she only needed to be an obedient wife. Sanqi, however, demanded a divorce. She confronted Zhao Cuo about the kite, confirming it belonged to Bai Yifei and accusing Zhao Cuo of deceitfully tricking her into marriage and messing up her life. Zhao Cuo angrily retorted that she had messed up his life, calling her an "idiot, fool, and blockhead." Declaring she would no longer be bullied, Sanqi announced she was leaving home.
Zhao Cuo mocked her, saying her money-greedy father would inevitably send her back and that she would end up penniless on the streets. Sanqi defiantly stated she would starve before returning and left for good. Zhao Cuo’s father, the southern city official, learned of Sanqi’s departure. Though Zhao Cuo feigned indifference, his father painted a grim picture of Sanqi’s potential fate and ordered him to find her.
Meanwhile, a hungry Sanqi momentarily longed for the delicious meals from Zhao’s mansion but resolved to remain independent. By chance, she saw a notice for a coroner position at the southern city government office, which was posted because the experienced coroner, Mr. Liu, was retiring. Seeing the high salary, Sanqi applied.
Despite her father-in-law's surprise that a woman would want such a "dirty and smelly" job, Sanqi argued that all professions were equal and that the notice did not exclude women. Impressed, he hired her as the city's first female coroner. She immediately requested a salary advance and, after some negotiation, secured five taels of silver. Feeling empowered, Sanqi returned to Zhao Cuo with a pre-written divorce letter, demanding he sign it.
He flatly refused, threatening to keep her until she was fifty, old and ugly, and Bai Yifei would no longer love her, at which point he would find an eighteen-year-old girl to serve him. Unfazed, Sanqi left again. Elsewhere, Bai Yifei lamented that Sanqi always left "like the wind" and resolved to stop pursuing her. Shortly after, Sanqi was captured by bandits who had been waiting to ambush Zhao Cuo.
They stuffed her into a sack, and when Bai Yifei encountered them, they claimed the sack contained a freshly slaughtered pig. Though suspicious, Bai Yifei let them pass, making a sarcastic remark about their "disabled" but "strong-willed" nature that he would soon regret. Zhao Cuo’s servant, Li Jia, reported Sanqi had run off again. Bai Yifei arrived, and Zhao Cuo falsely boasted that his wife was warming his bed and giving him goodnight kisses.
When Bai Yifei urged him not to treat "Jinxin" poorly, Li Jia blurted out that she was truly gone. Realizing she had taken the same path, Bai Yifei recalled the men with the heavy sack. Zhao Cuo then found Sanqi's dropped purse, confirming their fears: the "pig" in the sack was Sanqi. He immediately ordered Li Jia to seal the city. A ransom note shot by an arrow soon arrived, demanding Zhao Cuo come alone.
To get rid of his rival, Zhao Cuo lied to Bai Yifei, claiming the note was a breakup letter from Sanqi, and sent him away. However, Bai Yifei grew suspicious and followed Zhao Cuo. At the bandits' hideout, to save her life, Sanqi revealed she was not He Jinxin but Tian Sanqi from Yizhuang, a substitute bride whom Zhao Cuo had mistreated and thrown out. Outside, Zhao Cuo and Bai Yifei overheard her confession, finally learning her true identity.
The bandits initially untied her, but realizing she had seen their faces, they decided to kill her. Just as they were about to strike, Zhao Cuo burst in, declaring, "You can harm me, but not my woman." Together, he and Bai Yifei fought off the bandits and rescued Sanqi. To gain her sympathy, Zhao Cuo then pretended to be injured and fainted. Back at the mansion, he continued the ruse to make Bai Yifei give up, flaunting his "loving" relationship with a concerned Sanqi, leaving Bai Yifei heartbroken.
Episode 9 Recap
Zhao Cuo, spoiled by Sanqi's devoted care, grew overconfident. He declared Sanqi his wife to a group of gangsters harassing her and her new acquaintances. Sanqi angrily refuted him, stating they were divorced and had never consummated their marriage. A childish argument ensued, infuriating the gangsters who threatened Zhao Cuo with a sword, demanding he kneel. Bai Yifei, secretly observing to protect Sanqi, allowed Zhao Cuo to be beaten.
He then intervened, quickly subduing the gangsters with impressive martial arts, surprising Sanqi who questioned his usual pretense of clumsiness. Zhao Cuo immediately faked a severe leg injury, claiming it was broken. Sanqi, believing him, offered to carry him home, while Bai Yifei offered Sanqi a ride on his horse, addressing her as "Miss Jinxin." At the mansion, Zhao Cuo continued his charade, feigning unconsciousness.
A worried Zhao Quandui consulted a doctor who found Zhao Cuo's pulse normal, confirming no immediate danger, but couldn't explain his unconsciousness. Zhao Quandui dramatically mourned his son's supposed "head injury," believing him to be "between life and death." Overhearing this, Sanqi sincerely prayed for Zhao Cuo's recovery, vowing to do anything for him. Zhao Cuo "woke up," claiming to have heard her vow, and immediately exploited her promise, asking if she would abandon him if crippled.
Moved, Sanqi pledged lifelong loyalty and care. Li Jia, Zhao Cuo's attendant, reinforced the lie to Bai Yifei, claiming Zhao Cuo suffered from "hemiplegia" and was bedridden. Bai Yifei visited, expressing concern, but Zhao Cuo rudely dismissed him. Sanqi thanked Bai Yifei for his help, but Zhao Cuo accused her of siding with him. Feigning more pain, Zhao Cuo prevented Sanqi from seeing Bai Yifei out. Bai Yifei later returned to "declare war" for Sanqi.
He revealed overhearing Sanqi at the General's Hill temple, knowing she was Tian Sanqi and a stand-in bride for He Jinxin. Bai Yifei condemned Zhao Cuo for deceiving Sanqi and not granting her freedom, calling his actions dishonorable. Zhao Cuo accused Bai Yifei of stealing his wife. Bai Yifei countered that their marriage was a misunderstanding without intimacy, and that Sanqi had her own difficulties.
He promised to keep her secret but declared his intention to fairly compete for her affections. Sanqi, having overheard, confronted Zhao Cuo for his deception about his illness and martial arts skills. She subtly questioned Bai Yifei about his childhood travels, particularly to Shifang Village and any unusual marks on his waist, hinting at a possible sibling relationship. Bai Yifei confirmed moving to the northern city at age ten but couldn't recall Shifang Village or any marks.
Zhao Cuo, with Li Jia's help, then dramatically feigned more pain, interrupting their conversation. Zhao Quandui, while searching for a book on exotic flowers, discussed Sanqi with Zhao Cuo. Zhao Cuo confessed Sanqi's true identity as Tian Sanqi, a stand-in bride. To his surprise, Zhao Quandui was delighted, appreciating Sanqi's unique character and declaring he wouldn't dismiss her. He advised Zhao Cuo to consummate the marriage to prevent her from leaving.
Wet Nurse Ling, guilt-ridden over Sanqi's deception, wrote a letter to Zhao Quandui, praising Sanqi and announcing her departure from the Zhao Mansion, requesting to be forgotten. Zhao Quandui, intercepting her, passionately declared his love, making her the Zhao Mansion's true mistress. Ling accepted his confession. They decided to keep Sanqi's true identity secret. Ling also expressed her desire to visit her elderly mother, and Zhao Quandui vowed to accompany her.
A servant later informed Sanqi that Zhao Cuo was "ill again," "almost paralyzed," and refusing food and medicine unless she was present. Initially dismissive, Sanqi eventually relented. Zhao Cuo convincingly feigned a high fever and pain, clinging to Sanqi and begging her to stay. When she tried to leave, he dramatically complained of leg pain, then switched to head pain when she pointed out his leg should be healed.
The scene shifted to Sanqi waking up in bed with Zhao Cuo holding her. She demanded to know what he had done. Zhao Cuo smugly implied they had consummated their marriage, claiming her willing participation. Sanqi denied it, recalling only a daze. Zhao Cuo threatened to reveal their supposed intimacy to Bai Yifei if she left. To solidify his claim, Zhao Cuo arranged a garden meeting with Bai Yifei.
He and Sanqi publicly displayed affection, Zhao Cuo affectionately calling her "my love" and Sanqi reluctantly calling him "husband." Zhao Cuo fed Sanqi a chicken leg, jokingly attributing her "tiredness" from the "night before" to "carrying bricks." Bai Yifei, uncomfortable, left. Later, Zhao Cuo commanded Sanqi to bathe with him, framing it as a reward and fulfilling a supposed lifetime desire. Sanqi reluctantly agreed, hoping to find her "immortal brother's" birthmark.
As they bathed, cherry blossoms fell, and Duan Xuewei, a woman from Zhao Cuo's past with a childhood promise, returned, calling him by his nickname, "Medicine Pot." Zhao Cuo was shocked. A saddened Sanqi left, and Bai Yifei later informed her of Zhao Cuo and Duan Xuewei's history, leaving Sanqi emotionally conflicted.
Episode 10 Recap
Duan Xuewei returned after eight years, greeting Zhao Cuo warmly and calling him "Medicine Pot," reminding him of their childhood promise to return when cherry blossoms bloomed for the eighth time. She then met Sanqi, who introduced herself as Zhao Cuo's maidservant. Duan Xuewei countered by declaring herself Zhao Cuo's fiancée, leading to an awkward encounter where Sanqi was helping Zhao Cuo search for a lost jade pendant in the bath.
Duan Xuewei dismissed the search, saying Zhao Cuo had many such trinkets. Sanqi recalled Zhao Cuo's past harsh words, where he’d rather die than marry her, claiming Duan Xuewei was "like an angel, much prettier and sweeter" than Sanqi. This made Sanqi feel inferior and question her place. Later, Bai Yifei visited Sanqi, noticing her wet clothes and expressing concern.
At Sanqi's request, Bai Yifei recounted the story of their childhood: Duan Xuewei and her mother, a healer, came from Chisang and met Zhao Cuo and Bai Yifei when their fathers assumed office. Duan Xuewei treated Zhao Cuo’s chronic nightmares. Sanqi lamented that Zhao Cuo rarely smiled after Duan Xuewei left and felt that if she hadn't married him, he would have married Duan Xuewei instead.
Bai Yifei, however, urged Sanqi to question Zhao Cuo directly about his feelings, not to make assumptions. He then told her the story of "a casket and pearls," implying that Zhao Cuo might value something other than what is outwardly beautiful, though Sanqi misunderstood his analogy and playfully called herself "rotten wood." As Bai Yifei left, he mused that the one who truly valued her was right behind her, but she never looked back.
Zhao Quandui and Wet Nurse Ling returned to the mansion, furious to find Duan Xuewei there and Sanqi no longer living in the house. Zhao Quandui chastised Zhao Cuo, accusing him of being a "two-timing man" and comparing his home to an inn where people could come and go freely. Zhao Cuo defended Duan Xuewei, explaining she had left to find a cure for his nightmares. Zhao Quandui insisted on bringing Sanqi back, calling her his "legally married daughter-in-law."
Sanqi, however, arrived and presented a divorce certificate, announcing her intention to end her marriage with Zhao Cuo and move to the magistrate's office. Zhao Cuo immediately objected, denying any desire for a divorce. Sanqi then pleaded with Zhao Quandui and Wet Nurse Ling to support Zhao Cuo and Duan Xuewei, stating that she believed she was the one who should leave.
The next day, Duan Xuewei informed Zhao Cuo that she had received a letter and would be leaving to join the Guijianchou Clinic in the southern city to study medicine. She also suggested that Sanqi return to the mansion to take care of him, expressing confidence that no matter who entered his life, he would always return to her. Zhao Cuo was left alone after her departure. Meanwhile, Zhao Quandui summoned Sanqi to his office.
He revealed that one of the kidnappers responsible for Sanqi's abduction had been found dead on a barren mountain in Baifang County. He also mentioned two other urgent issues from Baifang County: a plague outbreak and a murder case involving a plasterer named Liu from Shifang Village, Sanqi’s hometown. Concerned for her parents, Sanqi immediately volunteered to investigate all three cases.
After a brief consultation with Wet Nurse Ling, Zhao Quandui appointed Sanqi as a special constable for the Southern Taifu Magistracy, instructing her to conduct a discreet investigation. Bai Yifei, hearing the news, offered to accompany Sanqi to protect her. Upon learning that He Jinxin had gone to Baifang County with Bai Yifei, Zhao Cuo mistakenly believed they had eloped and furiously set off after them.
In Baifang County, Sanqi spotted a surviving kidnapper, the blind man who had abducted her, at a food stall. She, Zhao Cuo, and Bai Yifei chased him down, cornering him in the wilderness. As the kidnapper was about to reveal who was behind the kidnapping, a group of men in black suddenly appeared and killed him. County Magistrate Qin Fang arrived on the scene, mistaking Sanqi, Zhao Cuo, and Bai Yifei for the murderers.
Sanqi quickly identified herself as a special constable and introduced Zhao Cuo and Bai Yifei as the sons of the Southern and Northern Taifu Magistrates, respectively. Qin Fang apologized for the misunderstanding. Bai Yifei explained that the men in black had killed the kidnapper and then fled. Zhao Cuo, still angry, confronted Sanqi for not telling him about her dangerous mission and insisted that she was his wife. Bai Yifei intervened, reminding Zhao Cuo of Duan Xuewei.
Magistrate Qin Fang then invited them to the county office to discuss the cases. As they settled in, an official announced that He Ruoyao, an inspector from Taoyuan City, had arrived and wished to see the magistrate.
Episode 11 Recap
He Ruoyao, identifying herself as the imperial commissioner, arrived in Baifang County with He Jinxin, a special guard from Southern City (Sanqi in disguise), Zhao Cuo, son of the Southern City Taifu Magistrate, and Bai Yifei, son of the Northern City Taifu Magistrate. She informed County Magistrate Qin Fang that she was inspecting Baifang County under orders from the Lord of Taoyuan City, investigating a recent gang-related incident.
Qin Fang reported that several kidnappers who had attempted to abduct Zhao Cuo were found dead on a barren mountain, the county coroner concluding they had killed each other over the spoils. Their bodies were subsequently buried. He Ruoyao then inquired about a rumored plague. Qin Fang, feigning surprise, acknowledged the plague but minimized its severity, claiming the affected villagers were not in mortal danger and that medical houses were treating them diligently.
He stated that he had blocked the main roads of Baifang County to prevent its spread. He Ruoyao pressed him about a death penalty review file, to which Qin Fang replied that the Taifu Magistrate had withheld sentencing due to lingering doubts. He Ruoyao, disguised as a man, engaged in a verbal sparring match with Bai Yifei. Zhao Cuo, noticing He Ruoyao's (as "Mr. He") attentive behavior towards Sanqi, grew suspicious.
Bai Yifei tried to dissuade He Ruoyao from participating in the investigation, citing the dangers and the plague, but He Ruoyao dismissed his concerns, commenting on his delicate appearance. Later, while Bai Yifei bathed in the river, Zhao Cuo followed him, suspecting Bai Yifei might also be a woman in disguise and attempting to confirm his gender. After a comical struggle, Bai Yifei thwarted Zhao Cuo's attempts.
Sanqi, with the others, visited the Tian family in Yizhuang, Shifang Village, ostensibly to visit her maternal uncle and aunt. There, she discovered her real parents, disguised as her uncle and aunt, who had been hiding in coffins to avoid repercussions for Sanqi's escape from an arranged marriage. After a brief reunion, they maintained the charade for Zhao Cuo and Bai Yifei. Sanqi's "aunt" jokingly offered old coffin boards as seats, much to the discomfort of the two young men.
Sanqi then inquired about the plague and the kidnappers' bodies. Her "aunt" and "uncle" confirmed the plague's sudden onset and its management with medicine provided by the authorities. Importantly, they had not been contacted by the county yamen to collect any bodies, further fueling Sanqi's suspicions about Qin Fang. The group then visited the God of Paradise temple to investigate the abbot's murder.
A temple attendant explained that the case was closed, with a plasterer named Liu accused of the crime. The attendant also mentioned the plasterer had damaged the temple's statue. He Ruoyao noted the temple's popularity despite its small size and questioned the unconventional statue renovation. The attendant revealed the abbot had secretly decided to refurbish the aging statue. While there, Sanqi detected the faint smell of a decaying corpse.
Sanqi also visited a medical hall, where the doctor reiterated that the plague was mild and easily treatable, reinforcing the notion that it was not fatal. Sanqi concluded the plague was less serious than initially believed, allowing them to focus on locating the kidnappers' bodies. That night, the group went to the mountain where the kidnappers were supposedly buried. Using her childhood knowledge of the area and keen observation of disturbed soil, Sanqi located the burial site.
Despite Zhao Cuo and Bai Yifei's reluctance, they unearthed the bodies. Sanqi's preliminary examination revealed multiple knife wounds, but the victims' purple faces and bulging eyes indicated poisoning, not fatal stabbing. She concluded the knife wounds were inflicted to fabricate a narrative of mutual combat. He Ruoyao deduced that the men in black had poisoned the kidnappers and then killed the sole survivor to conceal the initial poisoning.
He Ruoyao questioned the motive behind the men in black kidnapping and attempting to assassinate Zhao Cuo, leading to an argument between them. Back in Baifang County, Magistrate Qin Fang publicly accused the doctor of poisoning two plague victims with Biluo Root, a rare and potent poison, which he claimed was found in the doctor's possession and in the victims' bodies. Despite the doctor's denials and lack of motive, Qin Fang ordered his imprisonment to quell public unrest.
He Ruoyao insisted on examining the deceased villagers. Sanqi confirmed that these victims showed the same symptoms (purple eyes, black lips) as the poisoned kidnappers, reinforcing the theory that they were also poisoned by Biluo Root. Later, Sanqi discovered something at a well. Back at the inn, she revealed that Baifang County's entire water supply was subtly contaminated with Biluo Root. This chronic, low-dose poisoning was the true cause of the "plague."
Zhao Cuo informed them that Qin Fang had recently started using large water tanks at the yamen, suggesting he knew about the well contamination and had isolated himself from it. Bai Yifei added that Qin Fang, despite his devout patronage of the God of Paradise temple, had allowed the abbot to secretly renovate the old temple statue, against established tradition.
To expose the truth and reveal the real culprit, Sanqi instructed Zhao Cuo to spread news of the poisoned well water among the villagers. Zhao Cuo publicly demonstrated a vinegar test, turning the contaminated water purple, convincing the skeptical townspeople. The alarmed villagers demanded Qin Fang investigate and open the city gates for fresh water. Qin Fang relented, agreeing to open the gates for two hours each morning but maintaining the overall lockdown.
As the villagers dispersed, Zhao Cuo and Bai Yifei prepared to stake out the inn, anticipating an attack from the conspirators. Sanqi and He Ruoyao covertly infiltrated the county magistrate's office. At the inn, Zhao Cuo and Bai Yifei encountered two men in black, apprehending one after a struggle, while the other, a skilled fighter, escaped.
Simultaneously, in Qin Fang's office, Sanqi and He Ruoyao discovered a secret chamber containing a stash of Biluo Root, confirming Qin Fang's involvement in the poisoning. They promptly left with the evidence.
Episode 12 Recap
At Baifang Inn, concern was voiced over Zhao Cuo and his companions' delayed return. News arrived that the county magistrate had apprehended the well poisoner and thwarted an assassination attempt by two thieves. Meanwhile, the captured He Ruoyao, an inspector appointed by the Lord, threatened her captor, warning of repercussions for her harm. The captor, revealed to be the county magistrate, dismissed her threat, suggesting she inquire with the King of Hell. Zhao Cuo arrived, demanding He Ruoyao's release.
The county magistrate, addressing Zhao Cuo and Sanqi, urged them to surrender their weapons to avoid suffering. Sanqi retorted that threatening them was foolhardy, as she and Zhao Cuo were the children of powerful magistrates; killing them would be suicidal. The magistrate dismissed their threats, stating his intention to kill them and had no plans to let them go.
He planned to attribute their deaths to the plague or kidnappers to evade retribution from their families, ensuring a "perfect" execution of his plan. Sanqi scoffed, doubting his ability to succeed. During the ensuing fight, Sanqi urged a companion to take the others and flee while she provided cover. Zhao Cuo refused to leave her, resulting in his injury. Sanqi rushed to his side, concerned for his well-being; Zhao Cuo simply stated he had "spit blood."
Seriously, Zhao Cuo asked Sanqi if she would marry Bai Yifei if he died. Sanqi called his name, and he boasted of his martial arts and charm superiority over Bai Yifei. Sanqi agreed he was better. The magistrate ordered his men to kill them. Later, at the Baifang Yamen, Zhao Quandui asked Jinxin (Sanqi) to preside over the case.
Jinxin revealed that the "county magistrate" was an imposter, Liu Qi, who had murdered the real Qin Fang and hidden his body in a statue at the God of Paradise Temple. Liu Qi confessed, revealing that he had been Qin Fang's bookboy and childhood sweetheart of Qin Fang's wife. Upon Qin Fang's appointment as magistrate of Baifang County, his affair with Liu Qi's wife was discovered, leading Liu Qi to kill him and hide the body.
Overcome with guilt, Liu Qi impersonated Qin Fang, intending to atone for his sins through good governance, continuous incense offerings at the temple, and setting up a memorial tablet for Qin Fang at home. However, an abbot he hired unknowingly discovered the corpse during renovations, forcing Liu Qi to kill the abbot and frame a plasterer. Jinxin pressed him about the plague. Liu Qi was surprised by her discovery.
Jinxin explained her deductions: Biluo Root residue found by the well, linked to the large water vats in Liu Qi's mansion. She deduced he poisoned the well to create a fake plague, isolating Baifang County to eliminate specific targets and secretly added powdered Biluo Root to distributed herbs to frame the doctor. His flawed plan required constant re-poisoning, leaving residue. His stockpiling of clean water also raised suspicion.
Jinxin revealed their strategy: spreading rumors of poisoned well water to attract his attention, while Zhao Cuo and Bai Yifei laid an ambush, and she and Jinxin searched his room, finding conclusive evidence of Biluo Root. Jinxin questioned why, after successfully impersonating Qin Fang, he risked further murder. Liu Qi vaguely stated it was "to kill those damned people" but refused to elaborate.
Jinxin pressed him, asking if the men in black were the masterminds who supplied him with the Biluo Root, noting a county magistrate's inability to acquire such a rare substance. Liu Qi warned them not to investigate further and to pretend they never saw the escaping man in black, warning them of the power they were up against. Jinxin questioned why he killed for them when he could have remained Qin Fang.
Liu Qi admitted that "they found me" and threatened him with exposure of his impersonation. Jinxin urged him to confess everything about the men in black to find the truth and atone for his sins. As Liu Qi began to speak, an arrow struck him, silencing him permanently. A man in black hidden in the rafters had shot him. Everyone chased the assassin, but failed to catch him.
As he lay dying, Liu Qi warned Jinxin and the others to give up, stating they "can't defeat them." Later, at Zhao's Mansion, Duan Xuewei inquired about Zhao Cuo's condition. She reported a severe internal injury requiring slow recovery, and that he would likely awaken in a few days after acupuncture and herbal remedies. Sanqi offered to fetch medicine, but Duan Xuewei declined, offering to do so herself.
Duan Xuewei declared her intention to personally oversee Zhao Cuo's daily care and remain by his side to prevent further harm. He Ruoyao, in male disguise, questioned Duan Xuewei's implications, wondering if she suspected Sanqi would harm Zhao Cuo. Sanqi quickly interjected, clarifying Duan Xuewei's intentions. In Quandui Hall, He Ruoyao discussed the situation with Sanqi.
She sought clarification: Sanqi was Zhao Cuo's legal wife, Duan Xuewei was his childhood sweetheart, returned after eight years, and Sanqi was leaving Zhao's Mansion and Zhao Cuo to facilitate their reunion. He Ruoyao expressed confusion, noting Sanqi's intelligence and questioning Duan Xuewei's audacity in claiming another's husband. Sanqi insisted she had her reasons and genuinely considered Duan Xuewei a friend.
He Ruoyao acknowledged Sanqi's magnanimity but pointed out that Duan Xuewei, deeply in love with Zhao Cuo, was likely to become Sanqi's enemy, especially with Zhao Cuo comatose after saving Sanqi. Sanqi, distressed, asked what she should do. He Ruoyao suggested she talk to Duan Xuewei and apologize if she valued the friendship, concluding that women were simply "troublesome." Zhao Quandui, observing He Ruoyao, mused about how long "Mr. He" (He Ruoyao in disguise) could maintain the act.
He Ruoyao, making her presence known, questioned his presence. In her inspector's disguise, He Ruoyao pointed out her duty to inspect various regions. She stated that the southern city had no wrongful cases thanks to Jinxin, but Zhao Quandui's northern city "had many problems." Zhao Quandui, from the Northern Taifu Mansion, requested clarification. He Ruoyao announced her intention to inspect the northern city and told him to prepare.
Internally, Zhao Quandui, disliking He Ruoyao but unwilling to allow her to stay near Jinxin, decided to accompany her to the northern city, even to his own Bai's Mansion, as a "sacrifice." He "agreed" to her inspection, and they made plans to depart. Back at the Southern Taifu Yamen, Zhao Quandui and his subordinates were initially wary of a crowd outside.
However, a villager from Baifang County approached, expressing gratitude and offering "native eggs" as thanks for saving their lives from the plague. More villagers praised him as "Justice Zhao" and a "guardian angel," abandoning their previous criticism of him as an "incompetent official." Zhao Quandui was delighted, attributing his renewed popularity to Jinxin, his "mascot." At Bai's Mansion, He Ruoyao oversaw the relocation of her belongings. Bai Yifei confronted her, questioning her actions.
He Ruoyao nonchalantly replied she was moving in. When Bai Yifei protested, He Ruoyao reminded him that he had invited her to inspect the northern city, requiring a stay of at least ten days. She dismissed his suggestion of an inn, citing her integrity and frugality as an official, emphasizing the high cost of inns. She then boldly announced her intention to move into Bai Yifei's Qiyu Chamber, citing its suitability for her work.
Bai Yifei was furious, demanding she remove her things, but his father intervened, welcoming He Ruoyao and instructing Bai Yifei to vacate his room. He Ruoyao subtly criticized Zhao Quandui, contrasting his alleged incompetence with her own record, offering her case files for review. Bai Yifei's father agreed to discuss matters that evening. He Ruoyao, further ingratiating herself, complimented his clothes and asked where he bought them.
Sanqi later apologized to Duan Xuewei for deceiving her, causing Zhao Quandui's misunderstanding, and for Zhao Cuo's injury. She hoped for forgiveness and continued friendship. Duan Xuewei initially agreed but then twisted her words, stating that a true apology in her hometown required self-stabbing. She demanded Sanqi stab herself to maintain their "sisterhood." Duan Xuewei dropped her pretense, revealing her disdain for Sanqi, calling her "hypocritical and stupid."
She expressed disappointment that Zhao Cuo, during her absence, had fallen for Sanqi, almost making her dislike him. When Sanqi denied liking Zhao Cuo and insisted he liked Duan Xuewei, Duan Xuewei scoffed, saying she wasn't foolish enough to believe her. She admitted she had known about Sanqi and Zhao Cuo's relationship from their first meeting, initially believing Sanqi was a temporary replacement due to Zhao Cuo's loneliness.
However, seeing his hesitation between them, she now considered Sanqi a genuine rival, acknowledging she had underestimated her. She spitefully declared her profound dislike for Sanqi from the beginning and curtly told her to stop talking about sisterhood or friendship. After this, He Ruoyao noticed the marks on Sanqi's face and expressed concern, blaming herself for suggesting the apology. Sanqi reassured her that it wasn't her fault.
Sanqi reiterated her decision to move out of Zhao's Mansion and leave Zhao Cuo forever. He Ruoyao, still perplexed, offered to distract Duan Xuewei so Sanqi could have a last meeting with Zhao Cuo. In Zhao Cuo's room, Sanqi approached his bedside. She spoke to his unconscious form, wishing he wasn't so quiet. She reminisced about his bullying but acknowledged his protection in danger. Tearfully, she bid him farewell, promising that "your jinx won't bother you anymore." She apologized, recalling his words about loyalty among friends, and confessed that she was the one breaking her word.
Episode 13 Recap
He Ruoyao brought Sanqi to live in Bai's Mansion, much to Mr. Bai's delight. However, it was He Ruoyao who spent her days inseparable from Mr. Bai, an unexpected turn of events for him. He began to feel his initial dislike for He Ruoyao transform into admiration, their emotions quickly intensifying. This blossoming affection caused Mr. Bai to question his own feelings and preferences. Zhao Cuo, upon waking, learned of Sanqi's departure from the Zhao Mansion and felt deeply troubled.
He also reacted with strong resistance to Duan Xuewei's care. Duan Xuewei attempted to comfort him, claiming she was the one who had diligently looked after him, but Zhao Cuo insisted he had heard Jinxin's voice. When he pressed her further, Duan Xuewei revealed that Jinxin had asked her to care for him and had moved to Bai's Mansion. Zhao Cuo was visibly upset by this news and dismissed Duan Xuewei, stating he was tired.
Meanwhile, in Bai's Mansion, Mr. Bai often found He Ruoyao in his room. During a conversation with Sanqi, He Ruoyao mentioned catching Mr. Bai practicing and drawing him. Though He Ruoyao jokingly called him "White Scrag," her drawings depicted him with the strength of a "fierce tiger," which she claimed was merely a beautification out of pity. Their interactions deepened when Mr. Bai received an invitation he believed to be from Jinxin, inviting him to the countryside.
He arrived only to find He Ruoyao, who claimed Jinxin had sent a "challenge" for a duel. Despite the unusual circumstances for a fight, they went together. During their time in the beautiful countryside, He Ruoyao, who had a sheltered upbringing and had never truly appreciated such views, was deeply moved by the sunset. Mr. Bai shared his poetic thoughts on the fleeting nature of beauty. Later, Jinxin confronted He Ruoyao about the staged duel.
He Ruoyao admitted that she and Mr. Bai had ended up enjoying the sunset, and that Mr. Bai was "not as annoying" as usual. Jinxin then revealed she knew He Ruoyao was a woman, having seen her when she accidentally fell into a river where Mr. Bai was bathing. He Ruoyao was embarrassed but grateful Jinxin kept her secret.
In turn, He Ruoyao revealed that she knew Jinxin's true identity as Tian Sanqi, her brother's intended bride from Shifang Village, who had run away from an arranged marriage. They bonded over their secrets and agreed to help each other, with He Ruoyao offering to report Sanqi as dead to her father, the City Lord, to protect her. Sanqi stated her desire to pursue her destined love.
Separately, Sanqi had questioned He Ruoyao about a specific flame-shaped birthmark on Mr. Bai's waist, one she associated with her "little brother." He Ruoyao confirmed that Mr. Bai had no such mark, praising his exceptionally smooth and fair skin. This left Sanqi confused, especially as Mr. Bai had also shared a story about making a lifelong promise to someone when he was ten.
Sanqi realized that despite Mr. Bai knowing about the "grimace totem" from her past, he could not be the "little brother" she sought without the birthmark. She was left pondering who her true destined person could be. As Mr. Bai's bond with He Ruoyao grew, he found himself increasingly unsettled when He Ruoyao announced her impending return to the capital to report to her father and brother. He confided in Jinxin, expressing his unease and missing "Mr. He."
Desperate to keep "Mr. He" close, Mr. Bai even resorted to instructing a servant to set fire to the archives, hoping to create a new case that would bring He Ruoyao back. Days passed, and He Ruoyao did not return, leaving Mr. Bai restless and counting the days. His confusion over his feelings deepened as he heard a love song playing, openly questioning if he was falling for "him" and how he would face his ancestors.
He resolved to find a way to confirm his emotions. Later, Zhao Cuo went to Bai's Mansion looking for Jinxin, but instead found Mr. Bai engrossed in a romance manual. Annoyed at the intrusion, Mr. Bai lamented forgetting to lock his door. Zhao Cuo, misinterpreting the situation, warned Mr. Bai not to have any "improper thoughts" about Jinxin, threatening to kill him if he did. Following this, Zhao Cuo stood outside Sanqi's room, pleading with her to open the door.
He asked why she had not visited him since his recovery and if he truly meant so little to her. Sanqi, from within, coldly told him she did not care and that he should seek out someone who genuinely cared for him, like Duan Xuewei. When Zhao Cuo continued to plead, Sanqi threatened to leave, forcing him to depart. Defeated but resolute after this rejection, Zhao Cuo sought out Duan Xuewei and confessed that he had fallen in love with Sanqi, leaving Duan Xuewei filled with anger.
Episode 14 Recap
Bai Yifei stood by the river, lost in thought. He Ruoyao, disguised as "Mr. He," approached, and Bai Yifei, concerned for "Mr. He's" safety as a "weak man," questioned his recent whereabouts, revealing his growing affection. He Ruoyao dismissed the concern, claiming to be "bold," before leaving. Bai Yifei, alone, grappled with his unexpected attraction to a man, finding it "mad."
He Ruoyao later knocked on Bai Yifei's door, inviting him to a secret riverside meeting the next day, leaving Bai Yifei wondering if "Mr. He" reciprocated his feelings. Zhao Cuo had a heartfelt conversation with Xuewei, a past love interest, by a tree marking eight years since their last meeting. He revealed he had moved on, explaining that He Jinxin had entered his life and changed his perspective.
Despite Xuewei's pleas and attempts to belittle He Jinxin, Zhao Cuo firmly declared his love for He Jinxin, vowing to win her over. A heartbroken Xuewei, feeling betrayed, stabbed Zhao Cuo. Earlier, the real He Jinxin revealed her deceitful plan to Sanqi. She confessed to initially arranging for Sanqi to impersonate her and fake her death because she believed Zhao Cuo had a fatal illness.
However, captivated by Zhao Cuo, she fell in love with him and planned to permanently replace Sanqi. She coerced Sanqi into the scheme by threatening to expose Sanqi's escape from her arranged marriage, allowing the "real" He Jinxin to marry Zhao Cuo legitimately. Sanqi reluctantly agreed. Sanqi, disguised as He Jinxin, returned to Zhao's mansion, to Zhao Cuo's immense joy. She retreated to her room, left a heartfelt letter for Zhao Cuo, and consumed the fake death pill.
Discovering her seemingly lifeless body and the letter revealing her true identity and affection, Zhao Cuo grieved deeply, pleading for her to wake. In his desperate attempt to revive her, he dislodged the pill, and Sanqi awoke. Overwhelmed with joy, Zhao Cuo reassured Sanqi he accepted her true identity as Tian Sanqi, confessing he knew about her impersonation and the plan but remained silent to prevent her from leaving.
Sanqi shared the story of her childhood "immortal brother," with whom she had exchanged name rings. Zhao Cuo fiercely declared Sanqi belonged solely to him, presenting her with his name ring, sealing their commitment. Their tender moment was interrupted by the real He Jinxin, expecting to claim Sanqi's body and her rightful place. Enraged to find Sanqi alive and in Zhao Cuo's embrace, she attempted to expose Sanqi's identity and deceptions.
Zhao Cuo fiercely defended Sanqi, proclaiming her his wife and ordering He Jinxin to leave. Humiliated and furious, He Jinxin departed, vowing revenge. At their pre-arranged riverside meeting, He Ruoyao appeared before Bai Yifei in female attire, having shed her male disguise. Bai Yifei was initially shocked, then overjoyed to discover "Mr. He" was a woman. Relieved his affections weren't for a man, he confessed his love and promised to marry her.
He Ruoyao revealed her influential brother from the capital would soon visit, and she would seek his blessing for their marriage. Sanqi learned the real He Jinxin had gone to the capital, likely to expose Sanqi's true identity and escaped marriage to the Young Lord. Sanqi confided in He Ruoyao, expressing anxiety about her "immortal brother" and the Young Lord's (He Ruoyao's brother and Sanqi's intended husband) arrival.
He Ruoyao advised Sanqi to embrace her love for Zhao Cuo, suggesting her "immortal brother" may have moved on, and promised to advocate for Sanqi with her brother. He Ruoyao then informed Sanqi that the Young Lord was en route to the Southern City. The Young Lord, having finally read Tian Sanqi's letter, realized she was his childhood acquaintance from Shifang Village, with whom he exchanged name rings. He immediately left to find her. Unidentified figures discussed their strategic objectives.
They deemed Zhao Cuo and Bai Yifei secondary targets but issued orders to eliminate anyone connected to a past "incident" to prevent complications to their "great cause," stating "it's better to kill by mistake than let them go." They instructed their operatives to continue tracking Tian Sanqi and act decisively on identifying new targets.
Episode 15 Recap
Zhao Quandui, the magistrate, hung a plaque for his wife, Ling, proclaiming her "The First Lady of Southern City." He then appointed Sanqi as "Special Assistant of the Southern Taifu Magistrate," granting her full authority to handle court affairs in his absence. Zhao Cuo protested about not receiving a similar position, prompting Zhao Quandui to jokingly appoint him "Deputy Taifu Magistrate," primarily responsible for stamping documents. Zhao Quandui then announced a vacation with Ling.
Feeling insulted, Zhao Cuo was later commended by his father for diligently studying case files and presiding over a court case. His father apologized for past indulgence and formally presented him with the Deputy Taifu Magistrate plaque. Meanwhile, a series of murders plagued Southern City. Six bodies were found on the outskirts, all with their hearts surgically removed. Rumors of the "Heart-eating Nanny," a mythical creature, spread fear.
Sanqi, leading the investigation, examined the bodies, determining the wounds were precise, indicating a skilled human killer, not a supernatural being. The victims showed no signs of struggle, suggesting they were incapacitated before death. Sanqi discovered a powdery residue in their nasal cavities, identified as "Seven-Day Drunk," a powerful knockout incense requiring four rare herbs. She suggested checking pharmacy records.
However, Zhao Cuo and his team found no record of the rare herbs being purchased at any pharmacy, indicating the murderer obtained them elsewhere. Public fear escalated with another disappearance, leading a mob to the yamen demanding action. To restore order, Zhao Quandui declared a city-wide curfew. On the first night of the curfew, Zhao Cuo and his men encountered a wedding procession.
The groom, Zhao Ming, claimed to be the son-in-law of Gui Jianchou, a renowned but eccentric physician, and was marrying Gui Jianchou's daughter. Despite Zhao Cuo enforcing the curfew, Gui Jianchou, known for his medical genius and refusal to treat the wealthy without significant compensation, insisted on passage, claiming an auspicious wedding time. Zhao Quandui, recognizing Gui Jianchou's influence, intervened and allowed the procession to proceed.
The next morning, a Qiandu Hall apprentice revealed that Gui Jianchou's daughter and Zhao Ming had vanished overnight. Gui Jianchou had forbidden anyone from reporting this to the authorities. Sanqi, Zhao Cuo, and their team investigated Qiandu Hall, where Duan Xuewei initially stated Gui Jianchou wasn't seeing officials. However, Gui Jianchou subtly allowed them entry upon seeing Zhao Cuo. Inside the newlyweds' room, there were no signs of forced entry or struggle.
A unique incense, custom-made by Gui Jianchou and used by his daughter, filled the air, but the ash showed nothing suspicious. Duan Xuewei later met Zhao Cuo at their childhood pavilion, ostensibly to discuss the case, but also to rekindle their romance. Sanqi, following them, overheard their conversation. Zhao Cuo rejected Duan Xuewei's advances, reaffirming his love for He Jinxin.
Duan Xuewei revealed that Gui Jianchou suspected Zhao Ming of abducting his daughter, citing Zhao Ming's opportunistic motives and pharmacy family background, seeking a merger with Qiandu Hall through marriage. Sanqi, Zhao Cuo, and their team investigated Zhao Ming's residence and pharmacy, discovering a hidden stash of "Seven-Day Drunk" powder and a frequently used, chipped sword. Pharmacy records confirmed extensive purchases of the rare herbs. This strongly implicated Zhao Ming.
A woman falsely claiming to be He Jinxin publicly accused Sanqi of stealing her husband. Zhao Cuo dismissed this. Later, the real He Jinxin received a threatening letter from Zhao Ming. To protect her, Zhao Cuo sent Bai Yifei and He Ruoyao to assist his father in searching for Zhao Ming, while he and Sanqi guarded He Jinxin, joined by Duan Xuewei. That night, an unknown figure lured Zhao Cuo away, and upon his return, he found He Jinxin murdered. A distraught "mother" (possibly the imposter) accused Sanqi of the murder, making her the prime suspect.
Episode 16 Recap
Sanqi was brought to court, where an angry mob demanded her execution. Many accused her of murdering He Jinxin, while others defended her, arguing it was illogical for her to kill He Jinxin and then faint in the room. They questioned Duan Xuewei's absence, suggesting foul play. He Jinxin's family cried for justice, and Sanqi pleaded her innocence, claiming she fainted upon entering He Jinxin's room and found her dead upon waking.
However, some accused Sanqi of previously impersonating He Jinxin to marry into the Zhao family, claiming this proved her guilt. Bai Yifei tried to speak for Sanqi, but his father warned him against it. Because Zhao Quandui, Sanqi's father-in-law, had to recuse himself, Master Bai, the Taifu Magistrate of the northern city, presided over the trial. Zhao Quandui protested, calling it an overreach of authority, but Master Bai dismissed his objections.
Master Bai then declared Sanqi guilty of two crimes: first, deceiving the He family and impersonating their daughter, leading to He Jinxin's murder to cover up her deception; and second, impersonating the "Heart-eating Nanny" to kill many innocent people in the southern city. He sentenced Sanqi to death by fire, to be carried out immediately. Despite Bai Yifei's continued protests, Sanqi was taken to the execution ground.
Bai Yifei and Ruoyao, determined to help, followed, planning to break into the execution ground. On the execution ground, Sanqi pieced together the case. She realized the seemingly obvious clues were too simple for a cunning killer. She remembered Zhao Ming knew martial arts, concluding he couldn't be the murderer. While still unsure of He Jinxin's motive, she recalled Duan Xuewei's disappearance and Zhao Cuo's disappearance. A chilling realization struck her: Zhao Cuo was in danger.
She desperately called out, urging her companions to free her so she could save Zhao Cuo. Just as the executioners were about to light the pyre, He Zhen, the Young Lord of Taoyuan City, arrived and halted the proceedings. His sister rushed to him, questioning his delay. The magistrate quickly briefed He Zhen on Sanqi's alleged crimes, but Sanqi and her supporters vehemently insisted on her innocence and the urgent need to rescue Zhao Cuo from Qiandu Hall.
He Zhen, acknowledging the situation's complexity and the pleas for Sanqi, declared he would personally investigate, effectively stopping the execution and ordering Sanqi's release. Ignoring her own safety, Sanqi begged Young Lord He Zhen to accompany her to Qiandu Hall to rescue Zhao Cuo. Arriving at Qiandu Hall, they found it empty. The group split up to search. Sanqi noticed the room's furnishings were in the Chisang style, indicating it was Duan Xuewei's room, and suggested searching for clues there.
She then discovered a book detailing a "Heart Changing Operation." Understanding the gruesome implications, Sanqi explained that the victims murdered in the Southern City were likely subjects of this procedure. She concluded Qiandu Hall must contain a hidden chamber for these operations and that Zhao Cuo's life was in immediate danger. Meanwhile, in a secret room within Qiandu Hall, Zhao Cuo was held captive by Gui Jianchou and Duan Xuewei, prepared for a heart transplant.
Gui Jianchou revealed Zhao Cuo's pulse was "amazing and rare," making his heart perfect for the operation. Duan Xuewei, present, confronted Zhao Cuo with a twisted declaration of love, stating she wanted his heart to be hers forever. Gui Jianchou's daughter, the intended recipient, lay nearby. Waking, she tearfully begged her father to stop, reminding him of his past as a "famous doctor who helped the world" and pleading him not to kill for her sake.
Gui Jianchou, however, was determined to save her. Duan Xuewei, seeing intruders approach, proposed an alliance with Gui Jianchou: she would help him eliminate the intruders if he allowed her to possess Zhao Cuo's heart. Gui Jianchou, after hesitating, agreed. Sanqi and the others continued their search, noticing an unusually placed straw mat in a shaded part of the courtyard, where herbs wouldn't typically be dried. Sanqi deduced this spot concealed a secret passage.
Hearing Zhao Cuo's cries for help from below, they redoubled their efforts, quickly finding and activating a hidden mechanism that opened the entrance. Sanqi and Wumeng descended into the secret chamber, while the Palace Guards remained outside. Inside, Sanqi confronted Gui Jianchou, accusing him of the murders. He readily admitted to killing the innocent citizens and even Zhao Ming, all in a desperate attempt to save his daughter.
His daughter was horrified to learn the truth about her father's actions and Zhao Ming's fate – Gui Jianchou had claimed Zhao Ming had merely fled. Gui Jianchou revealed that Zhao Ming had been killed for refusing the heart transplant, and he had then framed Zhao Ming to divert suspicion.
Sanqi explained her deductions to Gui Jianchou: she had realized Zhao Ming was framed by noticing the difference between his actual, weak handwriting on pharmacy ledgers and the forceful script in a threatening letter, which indicated a much stronger killer. She further revealed that Gui Jianchou had initially planned to find a suitable heart in the city, but upon discovering Zhao Cuo's unique pulse, changed his target.
Duan Xuewei confirmed her role, admitting she had distracted Sanqi and Zhao Cuo, allowing Gui Jianchou to capture Zhao Cuo and murder He Jinxin, all while framing Sanqi to buy time for the heart transplant. Duan Xuewei then brazenly declared her love for Zhao Cuo, a possessive and twisted affection that sought to claim his heart, even at the cost of his life, so they could be "united forever."
She lamented his love for Sanqi after her return, claiming it made her own heart "wither." Sanqi condemned Duan Xuewei's cruel and selfish interpretation of love, but Duan Xuewei retorted that she didn't care whether Zhao Cuo lived or died, only that his heart belonged to her. Duan Xuewei then unleashed the controlled staff of Qiandu Hall, who were under a "Puppet Trick," against Sanqi and her allies. Sanqi urged her companions not to harm the innocent, controlled individuals.
Gui Jianchou's daughter, distraught by her father's confessions and the ensuing chaos, again pleaded with him to stop. She stated she would rather die than continue to be the cause of such suffering, calling her father a "murderer" instead of the "famous doctor who helped the world" he once was. Gui Jianchou, in his grief and despair, tried to continue the heart transplant, but his daughter, weak and heartbroken, died.
Overwhelmed by sorrow, Gui Jianchou mourned his daughter's death, blaming himself and wishing to join her and her mother in the afterlife. He then activated a self-destruct mechanism, turning Qiandu Hall into a death trap, intending to drag everyone down with him. Amidst the collapse, Zhao Cuo, still under the Puppet Trick's influence, attacked Sanqi. Sanqi desperately tried to appeal to his memories, reminding him of their childhood friendship and their bond.
She even offered to give up her own heart if it would end Duan Xuewei's hatred. Gui Jianchou, in a final act of devotion to Duan Xuewei, attempted to kill Sanqi, but was thwarted. As the hall crumbled, Sanqi carried an unconscious Zhao Cuo. Duan Xuewei became trapped, but Zhao Cuo, momentarily breaking free from the Puppet Trick, called out her name, seemingly trying to save her. Despite his efforts, the room collapsed, burying Duan Xuewei. Sanqi managed to pull Zhao Cuo to safety just as the building gave way.
Episode 17 Recap
After Sanqi was hit by a rock and fell unconscious during their escape, she was brought to Zhao's mansion. A doctor examined her, stating that her life was not in danger, but her back injury would require time to heal. Zhao Cuo stayed by her side, urging her to wake up and lamenting that he had so much to tell her.
Suddenly, He Ruoyao entered, telling Zhao Cuo to remain calm as she and her entourage could take care of Sanqi. Zhao Cuo was agitated, demanding to know what they were doing and calling them insane. He complained that a "playboy" was holding his wife's hand, referring to the man who was also by Sanqi's bedside.
He Ruoyao sharply told Zhao Cuo to lower his voice and revealed the man's identity: He Zhen, the Young Lord of Taoyuan City, and her own brother. Zhao Cuo was stunned, repeating "Young Lord." He then questioned He Ruoyao's identity, to which she stated her title as Lady Jinyan of Taoyuan City, implying he should show deference. Zhao Cuo's attendant, Li Jia, timidly prompted him to show respect, but He Ruoyao waved it off.
Zhao Cuo still insisted that even as the Young Lord, He Zhen could not simply hold his wife's hand. He Ruoyao retorted that it was Zhao Cuo who had stolen her brother's wife. She then revealed Sanqi's true identity: she was the only daughter of the Tian family from Shifang Village, who had been betrothed to He Zhen by their father. The engagement was formal, with a wedding letter sent and Sanqi even entering the wedding sedan.
However, Sanqi had fled the marriage, which later led to her impersonating He Jinxin and marrying into the Zhao household. Thus, He Ruoyao concluded, Zhao Cuo had effectively "robbed" her brother's intended wife. Zhao Cuo was bewildered, asking why he had never heard of such a significant event. He argued that if Sanqi had truly fled the Young Lord's marriage, He Zhen would have turned Taoyuan City upside down searching for her.
He Ruoyao clarified that her brother had initially not wanted to marry Sanqi, so her escape had actually suited his intentions at the time. Relieved, Zhao Cuo enthusiastically told He Ruoyao to take her brother away so he could reunite with his wife. However, He Ruoyao stopped him, noting that her brother's feelings had changed, and he now seemed to genuinely want Sanqi.
Zhao Cuo grew frustrated, arguing that He Zhen couldn't just claim Sanqi at will, but He Ruoyao reminded him that as the Young Lord of Taoyuan City, He Zhen's will was law. Zhao Cuo's attendant comforted him, advising him to manage his grief as if his marriage were dead. Meanwhile, Bai Yifei expressed his sadness to He Ruoyao, confiding that not all problems could be solved with love.
He was concerned about their differing statuses, with her being Lady Jinyan of Taoyuan City and him merely the son of a minor official. He Ruoyao dismissed his worries, stating that love was the most powerful force and urging him to be direct. She acknowledged their status disparity and the potential difficulties but affirmed that if their love was sincere, nothing else mattered.
She even offered to give up her title and live a simple life with him among the common folk. Bai Yifei was overjoyed, imagining a life where he would grind ink while she painted, and he farmed while she wove. He worried about her father's sadness, as she was his only daughter, but He Ruoyao playfully brushed off his concerns, vowing to cry until her father agreed.
Bai Yifei promised to cherish her more than anyone else, declaring her his "priceless treasure." He Ruoyao then playfully asked if he would ever leave her, to which he responded with an emphatic no, adding that he worried she might leave him. She affectionately called him a fool, asking who would protect him if she wasn't there. They then embraced, comforting each other.
Back at Zhao's mansion, Sanqi, awakened by the commotion, found Zhao Cuo and He Zhen quarreling by her bed. She was confused, asking where they had come from, and Zhao Cuo jokingly accused her of amnesia. Both men then vehemently declared themselves her husband, each dismissing the other. He Zhen emphasized his status as the Young Lord of Taoyuan City. Sanqi, exasperated, told them to be quiet. When her stomach rumbled, both men immediately vied to get her food.
Zhao Cuo offered pig brain soup and a "mountain forest chicken" drumstick from Shifang Village, while He Zhen insisted on more luxurious tonics like shark fin and bird's nest, or a full tonic congee. They both rushed out to prepare food for her. Later, Sanqi, left alone, expressed her annoyance at the constant attention. He Ruoyao entered, noting that both Zhao Cuo and He Zhen had left to buy new pastries from a dessert shop.
She expressed surprise at her brother's sudden attentiveness, as he had previously been an "iceberg" who didn't want to marry. Sanqi reaffirmed her commitment to Zhao Cuo, saying she couldn't regret their marriage. He Ruoyao, however, warned her that no woman could escape her brother if he truly desired her. She then playfully teased Sanqi about the nature of her marriage to Zhao Cuo, asking if they had "slept together."
Sanqi, innocent and naive, was confused, leading He Ruoyao to comically explain that if Zhao Cuo hadn't "scratched her armpit to make her tickle," she was still innocent, as she had heard children were born from the armpit. Sanqi realized Zhao Cuo had lied to her. He Ruoyao then revealed that He Zhen wanted to meet Sanqi in the pavilion for something important, and Sanqi, wanting to clarify things, agreed to go.
In the pavilion, He Zhen told Sanqi a story about a lonely little girl in Shifang Village eight years ago who was bullied. She wished for a friend, and an immortal granted her wish with a little boy. Sanqi was shocked, asking how he knew this private story. He Zhen continued, describing how they played, ate fruit, sang, and used fireflies as fireworks, and how the boy promised to protect her. Sanqi, deeply moved, demanded to know his identity.
He Zhen explained that the boy had to leave, returning to his rightful place, but before leaving, he gave the girl a bamboo name ring with his totem. Sanqi recognized the name ring, realizing it was her own, and then recognized the one he held as belonging to her childhood friend. She remembered their childhood promise to be together forever, with the old locust tree as their witness, and that he would return when she turned eighteen.
He Zhen apologized for leaving without a word, only leaving a grimace to indicate he was alive, making her wait for eight long years. He begged her to come with him. Still hesitant, Sanqi recalled his words about having to return to his place. To quell her doubts, He Zhen said he had one last thing to prove his identity and asked to see a birthmark on her waist.
Inside, Sanqi began to remove her clothes, but He Zhen stopped her. He insisted she needed to see clear proof to stop doubting him and then revealed a birthmark on his own waist. Sanqi recognized it as her childhood friend's. Overjoyed, Sanqi finally acknowledged him as her "little brother." He Zhen was ecstatic, promising never to let her suffer again and to take her back to get married once she recovered.
He acknowledged that it might be hard for her to accept after so long, but asked to take things slowly. He offered her tea and new pastries from Nanxin Dessert Shop. Zhao Cuo, witnessing the scene from afar, was furious. He complained that He Zhen and Sanqi were openly "showing off love" and ignoring his feelings as a man about to lose his wife.
He demanded He Ruoyao reveal Sanqi's location, offering all the handsome men in the city as a bribe, but He Ruoyao claimed she truly didn't know and couldn't control her brother's sudden change of heart. She advised Zhao Cuo that "long pain is worse than short pain" and he should give up. Li Jia then reported that Sanqi was still in He Zhen's room. Enraged, Zhao Cuo demanded his knife, threatening to "hack" He Zhen for "robbing his wife."
Li Jia desperately reminded him that challenging the Young Lord was a capital crime. Zhao Cuo dismissed the threat, declaring his life meaningless without Sanqi. Li Jia tried to reassure him that they were "just chatting," but Zhao Cuo remained determined to confront He Zhen. Li Jia advised a more cunning approach, reminding Zhao Cuo of the Young Lord's formidable guards.
Zhao Cuo then, with an inflated sense of self-importance, asked Li Jia to confirm his handsomeness, to which Li Jia hesitantly agreed, confirming Zhao Cuo was slightly more handsome than He Zhen. Despite Zhao Cuo's "Big Battle for Wife" plans, his father intervened, scolding him for attempting to challenge the Young Lord. Zhao Cuo accused Li Jia of being a traitor.
His father explained that while he had indeed arranged Sanqi's marriage to Zhao Cuo, he hadn't known her true identity then. He warned Zhao Cuo that fighting the Young Lord for a wife meant certain death, which would ruin his own newfound happiness with his "second love," Ling, and destroy the entire family. Li Jia and others tried to persuade Zhao Cuo that there were many other women in the world, suggesting that true love could happen more than once.
Zhao Cuo grew angrier, accusing them of forcing him to marry Sanqi only to now tell him to give her up. His father ordered him to stay put and not disturb He Zhen and Sanqi, tasking Li Jia with guarding him. However, Zhao Cuo's father then realized Zhao Cuo hadn't visited brothels or gambling houses since meeting Sanqi.
He devised a new plan: since they couldn't control Zhao Cuo, they would encourage him to frequent the brothels and gambling houses, hoping he would forget Sanqi by reconnecting with his old "wine-and-meat friends." He gave Li Jia money for this "activity." Zhao Cuo, misinterpreting his father's intentions, believed it was "event funding" to support his efforts to win Sanqi back.
Li Jia, eager to go, tried to convince Zhao Cuo that it was for the "economic development" of the city. Zhao Cuo saw through Li Jia's ploy and angrily dismissed him, declaring everyone around him "not kind at all." Finally, Sanqi, recovering and feeling restless, was asked by He Zhen when she would return to the capital with him, explaining that his father was seriously ill and he could not remain in the city much longer.
He added that he had waited too long for her and didn't want to be separated again. Sanqi asked for more details about his sudden departure eight years ago. He Zhen revealed that he had been sent away as a child to escape war, constantly hiding his identity and moving from place to place. Before the age of ten, he didn't even know who he was.
He explained that he was not afraid of death but was terrified of living a life without connection, with no friends, and forbidden to show emotion. Sanqi sympathized with his lonely past. He Zhen reiterated that their time together was the happiest in his life and asked her to come with him. Recalling their childhood vow of exchanging name rings and being together forever, Sanqi finally agreed to return to the capital with him.
Episode 18 Recap
Sanqi was troubled by Zhao Cuo and He Zhen's competing affections. Just as she was about to confess her love for Zhao Cuo to He Zhen, He Zhen revealed a shocking truth: he was her long-lost younger brother. Sanqi struggled to accept this revelation. Zhao Cuo, undeterred, launched his "Big Battle for Wife," much to Zhao Quandui's dismay.
He believed Sanqi was charmed by him and planned an elopement as his final strategy, rehearsing the scenario with Sanqi, declaring he'd follow her anywhere. He Zhen shared his past hardships with Sanqi, gaining her sympathy. After consideration, Sanqi decided to speak with Zhao Cuo. Sanqi met Zhao Cuo, confirming He Zhen was her long-lost brother. She explained her initial disbelief but now understood the truth.
She explained that she must return to the capital with He Zhen because of their childhood promise to be together forever, a promise now known throughout Taoyuan City. Zhao Cuo vehemently rejected this, claiming he didn't believe in destiny and that he was destined to be with her. Sanqi apologized, explaining she couldn't abandon He Zhen again. When Zhao Cuo asked about his feelings, Sanqi pointed out that staying with him would endanger Zhao Manor due to the Lord's wrath.
She argued returning to He Zhen was the best outcome for everyone and questioned whether he'd considered this. Zhao Cuo dismissed her concerns. Sanqi reaffirmed her decision, stating it was final. Zhao Cuo accepted her decision but passionately reiterated his love for her, emphasizing that leaving was "her" choice. He Ruoyao questioned Sanqi's resolve, offering to intercede with her brother and father if Sanqi wished to stay.
Sanqi stated that after the Gui Jianchou case, she understood true love wasn't about possession. She believed clinging to her feelings for Zhao Cuo would cause more pain. When asked if she loved her brother, Sanqi recounted He Zhen's unhappiness after leaving Shifang Village eight years ago. She explained her commitment to their childhood promise and that He Zhen needed her more than Zhao Cuo. Meanwhile, He Ruoyao found Bai Yifei drinking alone.
She urged him to confront He Zhen directly. A letter arrived announcing the Young Lord of Qifan City's intention to propose marriage to He Ruoyao. He Ruoyao refused, but He Zhen advised her to meet him for the sake of inter-city relations. He instructed Mr. Zhao to prepare for an engagement ceremony if He Ruoyao and Qin Fu were agreeable. He Ruoyao considered escaping, but Sanqi advised against it, explaining the potential scandal.
Sanqi suggested they wait before deciding on a course of action. He Ruoyao confronted Bai Yifei about his despair over the arranged marriage. She reminded him of her belief in unstoppable love and challenged his lack of courage. Bai Yifei admitted to losing his composure. When He Ruoyao asked how he'd overcome the obstacles, he vowed to make the Young Lord withdraw his proposal, or plead with her father, even at the cost of his life.
He then asked if she would elope with him. He Ruoyao readily agreed, declaring her fearlessness and unwavering commitment. Bai Yifei promised her happiness. He Zhen and He Ruoyao welcomed Qin Fu and his bodyguard, Han Ming. Qin Fu immediately expressed his desire to meet He Ruoyao. He showered He Ruoyao with compliments and romantic gestures, even discussing baby names. He Ruoyao was repulsed, stating she didn't want children with him and found him "flighty."
She confided in Sanqi, vowing not to marry him. Sanqi suggested she directly ask Qin Fu to break off the engagement. He Ruoyao asked Qin Fu to break off the engagement with her father. Qin Fu demanded a reason, asserting his affection. He Ruoyao stated she didn't like him and wanted to part ways. Qin Fu refused to withdraw without an explanation. He Ruoyao revealed she loved someone else. Qin Fu, after some guessing, correctly inferred it was Bai Yifei.
He Zhen received news of a fire at the posthouse, where the storeroom holding tributes was destroyed, and the watchman killed. Three luminous pearls, necklaces, and jade pendants were stolen. Han Ming suggested a thief started the fire. He Zhen vowed to investigate. Han Ming presented a jade hairpin found at the scene, which He Zhen recognized as Bai Yifei's. He Zhen and Wumeng went to Bai's Mansion to investigate. At Bai's Mansion, Bai Yifei confirmed the hairpin was his.
The stolen tributes were found in his room, leading to his arrest. Bai Yifei denied involvement, citing servants as witnesses. His father also defended him. He Zhen questioned the evidence, but He Ruoyao argued that Bai Yifei, as the son of a high-ranking official, wouldn't steal such minor items, nor would he be so foolish as to keep them in his own room. She urged a thorough investigation. He Ruoyao comforted Bai Yifei, promising to clear his name.
Bai Yifei predicted further attempts to frame him. He Ruoyao hinted at a plan. He Zhen announced a servant confessed to the arson, murder, and theft. Qin Fu expressed skepticism, implying a cover-up. He Ruoyao rebuked him. Han Ming loudly accused Taoyuan City of shielding the true criminal. He Ruoyao passionately vouched for Bai Yifei's innocence. Qin Fu silenced the argument, declaring the case settled. He Zhen and He Ruoyao confronted Han Ming, exposing him as the true perpetrator.
He Zhen questioned Qin Fu's involvement, but Qin Fu was genuinely shocked. Han Ming confessed, stating Qin Fu was unaware. Qin Fu demanded the truth. He Ruoyao revealed Han Ming's motive: to secure the marriage with her, as instructed by the Old City Lord, he framed Bai Yifei. Qin Fu was enraged, stating Qifan City didn't condone such methods and his father had forbidden forcing He Ruoyao into marriage.
Ashamed, Qin Fu apologized to He Ruoyao and wished her and Bai Yifei happiness. He Zhen declared the case closed, clearing Bai Yifei's name. He Ruoyao proudly highlighted her detective skills and suggested a celebratory dinner. Bai Yifei was excited. He Ruoyao, jokingly, remarked that Sanqi wouldn't enjoy Southern Manor's food after going to the capital. She quickly corrected herself, saying Sanqi would only return for visits. Sanqi interjected, confirming the case's conclusion and that she would return to the capital with the Young Lord. He Ruoyao, surprised, asked if she was leaving immediately.
Episode 19 Recap
Sanqi informed everyone that the Young Lord, whom she recognized as her childhood brother, was taking her back to the capital. She expressed sadness at leaving Southern City, particularly its roast pigeon. Zhao Cuo was disheartened by Sanqi's decision to marry He Zhen, feeling superfluous. Mr. Bai, witnessing Zhao Cuo's despair, encouraged him not to give up on love, emphasizing that perseverance is key. Though initially hesitant, Zhao Cuo resolved to fight for Sanqi.
Mr. Bai then devised a plan: steal Sanqi's name ring, essential for marriage in Taoyuan City, to prevent the wedding. He engaged He Zhen in an extended conversation, pretending to be a suitor for He Zhen's sister, Jin Yan, peppering him with questions about Jin Yan's preferences (like seeded versus seedless grapes, and whether she still owned a dog named Lingdang) to distract him. Meanwhile, Zhao Cuo attempted to find Sanqi's ring in He Zhen's room.
However, Sanqi, intoxicated, was already there. Zhao Cuo found her and scolded her for being in a man's room late at night, deeming it dangerous. As He Zhen approached, they hid. He Zhen entered, finding Sanqi in his bed. Quickly thinking, Sanqi feigned drunkenness, claiming sadness over leaving Southern City made her unable to sleep and that his bed was exceptionally comfortable.
To get him to leave, she pretended she could only sleep with her own pillow and asked him to retrieve it. After He Zhen left, Zhao Cuo confronted Sanqi, who confessed she was trying to retrieve her name ring because she didn't want to leave, marry He Zhen, or for him to possess the ring. Zhao Cuo then told her to rest.
Zhao Cuo later discussed Sanqi's departure with Wet Nurse Ling, who wisely advised that sometimes letting go is a form of possession. Though sad, Zhao Cuo accepted the situation, wishing to make Sanqi happy one last time before she left. He decided to celebrate her birthday the next day and pray for her happiness. That night, Zhao Cuo meticulously sewed a small cloth bag for Sanqi, embroidering a crude grimace totem doll onto it to cover a hole.
His servant, Li Jia, found the doll amusingly bad but understood Zhao Cuo's deep feelings. Sanqi discovered the bag and doll; she and Jin Yan teased Zhao Cuo about its ugliness, but Sanqi told him not to give her such "ugly things" in the future. For Sanqi's birthday, He Zhen had grander plans. He surprised her with a spectacular fireworks display in the courtyard. Then, to her astonishment, he revealed he had rented the entire Southern City market for her.
They strolled through the deserted market. He Zhen led her to a secluded spot where he recreated a magical firefly-lit night scene from eight years prior. This was his eighth gift, symbolizing his desire to compensate for his eight years of absence. He confessed his constant thoughts of her, expressed his joy at their reunion, vowed never to be absent again, and invited her to return to the capital with him the next day to make up for lost time.
Sanqi agreed. As a final gesture, He Zhen placed the name ring on Sanqi's hand, calling her "Young Lady" and asking for her guidance. Sanqi remembered a childhood promise where her little brother vowed to show her a sky full of fireworks; He Zhen had fulfilled that promise.
Episode 20 Recap
Zhao Cuo awoke from a disturbing dream involving Sanqi and He Zhen. Feeling agitated, he repeatedly knocked on Sanqi's door. After finding her room empty and a servant cleaning it, he learned that Sanqi and the Young Lord had left early that morning to visit her parents in Shifang Village. Alarmed by the implications of them "meeting the parents," Zhao Cuo ignored his father's attempts to question his agitated behavior and quickly ordered a horse to pursue them.
Meanwhile, Sanqi and He Zhen arrived at Sanqi's family home in Shifang Village, which was also a Yizhuang, or funeral parlor. Sanqi's parents greeted her with mixed emotions, scolding her for returning so openly as a fugitive and for potentially being caught by the "unlucky Young Lord." They spoke negatively of the Young Lord, speculating he was ugly and disabled. However, their attitude drastically changed when Sanqi introduced He Zhen as the Young Lord of Taoyuan City.
Instantly, they became overly deferential, showering He Zhen with compliments and kneeling before him to thank him for not punishing Sanqi. He Zhen, in turn, formally proposed marriage, and they enthusiastically accepted, offering him sweet dates and suggesting he sit on a coffin for comfort, which he politely declined.
Later, Sanqi went to confide in an old locust tree, expressing her happiness at finding her "little brother" and marveling at the coincidence that the man she had tried to escape marrying was her destined one all along. While Sanqi was at the tree, Zhao Cuo appeared, having finally tracked her down. He presented her with her missing satchel, on which he had embroidered a new grimace totem because she once claimed it was the reason she married him.
Sanqi was delighted but corrected him, revealing that the original totem was drawn by her "little brother," He Zhen, who told her it would protect her. Zhao Cuo then surprised her by singing a nursery rhyme she had sung on their first meeting, which she thought he wouldn't remember. Their conversation was cut short when He Zhen arrived to bring Sanqi to dinner. Later, He Zhen privately asked Sanqi why she had initially mistaken Zhao Cuo for him.
Sanqi explained that Zhao Cuo's belongings had a grimace totem, leading to the misunderstanding, and reaffirmed that He Zhen was her true "little brother." That night, He Zhen met with Wu Meng, the leader of the men in black and his personal bodyguard. Wu Meng urged him to eliminate Zhao Cuo while he was isolated in Shifang Village, but He Zhen postponed any action, not wanting to taint their return journey with sadness.
Frustrated, Wu Meng accused him of prioritizing Sanqi's feelings over their master's years of planning. He Zhen firmly asserted his authority, telling her she had no right to question his decisions. Driven by years of unrequited love and jealousy, Wu Meng resolved to act alone and ordered her men to assassinate both Zhao Cuo and Sanqi that night. As Zhao Cuo and Sanqi were talking by the locust tree, they were ambushed by two black-clad assailants.
Zhao Cuo urged Sanqi to flee, but she refused to abandon him and joined the fight. During the skirmish, Sanqi noticed a distinctive copper hand on one of the attackers and realized they were the same spies who had tried to assassinate the Young Lord eight years ago. After the attackers fled, He Zhen confronted an injured Wu Meng, furiously scolding her for acting without his permission and for targeting Sanqi.
Wu Meng tearfully confessed her jealousy, lamenting that despite her years of loyal service, he had never truly seen her, while Sanqi held all his affection. Shortly after, Sanqi and Zhao Cuo rushed to He Zhen's room. Sanqi shared her crucial discovery: the men in black were the same individuals who had pursued him years ago.
She also revealed her theory that many recent victims in various cases were all 18-year-old men from Shifang Village, suggesting the assassins were systematically eliminating them, though she couldn't understand why they also targeted Zhao Cuo. He Zhen dismissed her concerns, insisting the force behind them was too dangerous for her to investigate. He decided they should all return to the capital, promising to assign more personnel to the case.
Just then, Zhao Quandui, Zhao Cuo's father, announced his decision to resign from office and retire, a move Zhao Cuo found highly suspicious. Sanqi overheard and agreed, believing it was connected to a larger conspiracy involving both He Zhen and Zhao Cuo. Simultaneously, He Zhen received an urgent message that his father, the City Lord, was gravely ill. His sister, Ruoyao, suggested that arranging two weddings—hers and He Zhen's to Sanqi—might lift their father's spirits. He Zhen agreed, and they decided to depart for the capital in one day.
Episode 21 Recap
Zhao Quandui visited the Young Lord late at night to resign from his post as Taifu Magistrate of Southern City. He felt he had failed to protect the Young Lord after the attack in Shifang Village. The Young Lord tried to dissuade him, pointing out Zhao Cuo's bravery in capturing a rebel bandit and offering Zhao Cuo a military position in the capital.
Zhao Quandui refused, believing his son was too unruly for such a role, and requested permission for both of them to retire to a secluded life. The Young Lord reluctantly granted his request. Afterwards, the Young Lord suspected Zhao Quandui’s hasty departure indicated knowledge of the recent events and a possible plan to flee with Zhao Cuo. He ordered his subordinate to remain vigilant and await their return to the capital before taking action.
News of Zhao Quandui's resignation reached Mr. Bai, who visited the Zhao residence. Zhao Quandui's wife, Ling, was suspicious of Mr. Bai. Mr. Bai expressed his sadness at Zhao Quandui's departure, claiming Southern City would feel empty without his old rival. The two engaged in their usual playful banter before deciding to drink together.
Zhao Quandui, in a moment of sincerity, advised Mr. Bai to be cautious in officialdom, praising him as a good person despite his “lack of business ability,” and regretting their late friendship. They toasted to their past. Later, Zhao Cuo and Bai Yifei, Mr. Bai's son, also drank together. Anticipating his departure, Zhao Cuo thanked Bai Yifei for his past help, mentioning the Leimo case, saving his life, and fighting alongside him against men in black.
He declared that after this drink, he would no longer be indebted to Bai Yifei. Bai Yifei, sensing Zhao Cuo’s sadness, gently inquired if it was due to Sanqi’s departure, which Zhao Cuo denied. They acknowledged their paths may not cross again, given Zhao Cuo's return home and Bai Yifei's journey to the capital with the Young Lord and Sanqi. Zhao Cuo entrusted Sanqi's well-being to Bai Yifei.
Bai Yifei apologized for their childhood fight, sparked by his and others' insults towards Zhao Quandui. They playfully argued over the fight's victor, maintaining their rivalry. Mr. Bai joined them, producing a notebook detailing Zhao Quandui's official misdeeds. Zhao Quandui tried to get him to burn it, proposing a drinking game. Mr. Bai refused, leading to a comical fight that involved Ling. As departure neared, everyone felt the pangs of separation.
He Zhen reassured Sanqi that he would keep her close in the capital to prevent other girls from becoming infatuated with her, to which Sanqi reaffirmed her devotion. Sanqi’s adopted parents gave her money and advice, urging her to be a good wife and to defend herself, affectionately calling her "Young Madam." An emotional Sanqi called them "Dad" and "Mom" one last time, promising to miss them. She looked back at Southern City with reluctance.
On the road, Zhao Cuo surprised Sanqi with a farewell gift of her favorite snacks. He explained his earlier absence, expressing regret over a fallen flower petal cake. He also gave her a jade pendant, a cherished heirloom from his mother, as a keepsake. Sanqi, deeply moved, vowed they would meet again. Zhao Cuo reassured her, promising to be the first to help her should she ever face trouble, emphasizing their loyalty as friends.
Arriving in the capital, Sanqi, uncomfortable in her formal attire, accompanied He Zhen to meet the Old Lord. She expressed her discomfort, but He Zhen reminded her of the need for decorum. The Old Lord questioned Sanqi about her attempted escape and fear of punishment. Sanqi boldly admitted her prior engagement, subtly suggesting the Old Lord's awareness.
Amused, the Old Lord revealed he had deliberately chosen a bride from Shifang Village—Sanqi—connected to He Zhen's past, calling the village He Zhen's "lucky place." Noticing the Old Lord's pale complexion and lack of sunlight, Sanqi suggested a physical exercise her mother had taught her. Despite He Zhen's attempts to intervene, the Old Lord agreed, even as Sanqi complained about her dress.
He Zhen then introduced Sanqi to Wet Nurse Lan, who would teach Sanqi proper etiquette, emphasizing a dignified image as the Young Madam. While ostensibly touring the mansion, Sanqi discovered a secluded courtyard with a new lock and food hamper, indicating an inhabitant. She investigated and found an ailing woman, the City Lord’s wife, suffering from memory loss. The woman mistook Sanqi for someone who had taken her child.
Sanqi inquired if she meant He Zhen, but the Lady denied it, calling He Zhen a fake and repeatedly stating, "He's not my son!" Sanqi noticed the Lady's jade pendant. Upon seeing Sanqi's pendant, the Lady recognized it, associating it with Shifang Village and "Zhen," exclaiming that her real son was alive. This suggested He Zhen was not the Lady's true son, and the pendant held a vital clue.
Meanwhile, on their journey home, Zhao Cuo and Zhao Quandui passed through a silent valley—no birdsong—indicating an ambush. Men in black attacked. Zhao Cuo warned his father and instructed Li Jia to protect Ling before fighting. Zhao Cuo was struck on the head and felt immense pain. Separately, the Lady continued denying He Zhen's identity. A mysterious figure appeared to the injured Zhao Cuo, stating that his friends were dead, their family killed in a fire.
This figure then appeared to hypnotize Zhao Cuo, commanding him to imagine a red forest with a red coffin, lie down, close his eyes, forget his past, and accept the name Zhao Cuo. This suggested a manipulation of Zhao Cuo's identity and memory.
Episode 22 Recap
In the Lord's mansion where the Lord's wife, distraught, recognizes that her true son is alive, possibly after an earlier revelation from Sanqi about a jade pendant. As she attempts to meet the Lord, she is prevented by servants, while others, possibly Sanqi and her allies, urgently stress the need to inform the Lord of the danger, and a distressed plea to "save Zhen" is heard.
Meanwhile, in a valley, Zhao Cuo is cornered by a group of men in black. He is saved just in time by the arrival of He Ruoyao, Bai Yifei, and Commander Zhang. During the intense confrontation, Zhao Cuo experiences flashes of memory, leading him to address Commander Zhang as his Master, which bewilders He Ruoyao.
Commander Zhang clarifies that he has been living in seclusion nearby and secretly training Zhao Cuo in martial arts since Zhao Cuo was twelve years old, with strict instructions for him not to reveal his skills. He Ruoyao and Bai Yifei explain that Sanqi had entrusted them to secretly protect Zhao Cuo from these very men in black, noting Sanqi’s mysterious demeanor and her insistence that they not inform He Ruoyao’s brother, He Zhen.
Zhao Cuo questions Bai Yifei about a grimace totem, which Bai Yifei recounts Zhao Cuo taught him as a child, along with a strange ballad, yet Zhao Cuo himself has no recollection. Commander Zhang, emphasizing the gravity of the situation, warns Bai Yifei and He Ruoyao to protect Zhao Cuo and keep all these matters confidential, especially from He Ruoyao’s brother.
Zhao Quandui then decides it's time to reveal the full truth to He Ruoyao, urging her to prepare herself for what she is about to hear. He discloses that Zhao Cuo is, in fact, the real Young Lord of Taoyuan City and He Ruoyao’s biological elder brother. He Ruoyao, shocked, struggles to believe it, asserting that He Zhen is her brother.
Commander Zhang corroborates Zhao Quandui’s words, identifying himself as a commander under the Taoyuan General and one of the guards who escorted the Young Lord out of the city many years ago, confirming Zhao Cuo’s true identity. When He Ruoyao questions He Zhen’s identity, Commander Zhang states He Zhen is undoubtedly an imposter.
Commander Zhang then recounts the full story: eighteen years prior, during a war with a neighboring city, the Lord ordered the Taoyuan General to escort the infant Young Lord (Zhao Cuo) out of the city for safety, to live in hiding. Eight years ago, with the war concluded, the General received a decree to return to the capital. However, on their journey back, they were ambushed by the men in black.
Recognizing the attackers as internal threats from the capital rather than external enemies, the General swiftly devised a plan. He ordered Commander Zhang to switch the Young Lord’s clothes with another child to create a decoy, while he himself would draw the attackers away. The General then instructed Commander Zhang to take the real Young Lord to Zhao Quandui, commanding him to protect the child and ensure he lived under a hidden identity, never returning to the capital.
Commander Zhang reached Zhao Quandui, who vowed to protect the Young Lord even at the cost of his own life. Zhao Quandui then instructed the young Zhao Cuo to assume the name "Zhao Cuo," born into the Zhao family, and forget his past. When the boy pleaded to return to his friend (Sanqi), Zhao Quandui cruelly told him that his friend and her family had perished in a fire, effectively binding him to the Zhao household.
Commander Zhang then left to assist the General, never to return. Zhao Quandui further reveals that he indeed concealed Zhao Cuo in his home, dismissed his former staff, and presented Zhao Cuo as his biological son to new servants. Zhao Cuo recalls that the day after arriving at Zhao Quandui’s residence, he secretly went to Shifang Village to find Sanqi and tell her he was alive, but she was not at their agreed meeting spot, the large locust tree.
Zhao Quandui adds that Zhao Cuo's memory loss of events prior to age ten was due to a witch doctor, Duan Xuewei’s mother, who had hypnotized him, ensuring he only remembered his life as Zhao Quandui's son. He Ruoyao finally comprehends that Sanqi's long-sought "immortal brother" is Zhao Cuo, and that He Zhen, the brother she grew up with, is an imposter.
Zhao Quandui confirms this, stating that the jade pendant Zhao Cuo carried, which matched the Lord's, was definitive proof. He reveals that He Zhen was unaware of this pendant, which Zhao Cuo had given to Sanqi before she left for the capital. Commander Zhang expresses deep concern for Sanqi, realizing her growing suspicions about He Zhen put her in grave danger. Zhao Cuo, enraged, declares he will go to save her.
Zhao Quandui, however, cautions against a reckless assault on the Lord's mansion, citing He Zhen's strengthened military presence for the approaching wedding and their own limited numbers. He suggests they report the truth to the Lord instead. He Ruoyao confirms that her father, the Lord, is severely ill and has already transferred military authority to He Zhen, making it difficult to appeal to him directly. She warns Zhao Cuo that any impetuous action could jeopardize Sanqi and her father.
Zhao Cuo, determined, asks He Ruoyao for her assistance. Concurrently, within the Lord's mansion, Sanqi finds herself under strict confinement. Wet Nurse Lan, under He Zhen’s explicit orders, prevents Sanqi from leaving her chambers, even to see He Ruoyao. Sanqi realizes her isolation, making it impossible to convey her suspicions to the Lord alone. He Ruoyao returns to the Lord, bringing Bai Yifei with her and introducing him.
The Lord, pleased by their return, suggests He Ruoyao consider marrying alongside He Zhen. The Lord then suffers a bloody cough, revealing his deteriorating health. He Zhen, observing the medicine being served, shows a feigned concern by instructing a servant to cool it. Sanqi, still confined, again tries to convince Wet Nurse Lan to let her see He Ruoyao, but Lan remains unyielding, reiterating He Zhen’s strict orders.
He Zhen later visits the ailing Lord, who expresses his earnest desire for the wedding to proceed swiftly so he can peacefully pass on the city's leadership. He wants a grand and joyful ceremony. He Ruoyao (Lady Jinyan) steps in, offering to manage the wedding’s entertainment by inviting renowned opera troupes from the capital, a suggestion the Lord approves, thereby relieving He Zhen of the task.
The Lord then issues a decree, granting amnesty to most prisoners and reducing taxes for three months across Taoyuan City, proclaiming the Young Lord’s wedding as a celebration for all. He Zhen, in a private moment with Sanqi, expresses his long-awaited joy, promising to make her the happiest woman in the world. Sanqi, her mind clouded by doubts but outwardly compliant, responds that she believes him and wishes to be with her "immortal brother" forever.
During the subsequent opera performance, featuring the familiar "An old man with two ears" ballad, Sanqi experiences powerful flashbacks. She vividly remembers Zhao Cuo teaching her the grimace totem, giving her a bamboo "name ring" as a symbol of their bond, and their childhood vows to always be together. She recalls her younger self fiercely protecting him. These memories coalesce, confirming beyond doubt that Zhao Cuo is indeed her long-lost "immortal brother."
The wedding ceremony for He Zhen and Sanqi then formally begins, with the couple performing the traditional bows to heaven and earth, to their parents, and to each other, before proceeding to the wedding room.
Episode 23 Recap
He Zhen and Sanqi were ambushed and captured by the Old Lord and Zhao Cuo in their wedding chamber. The Old Lord, aware of He Zhen's actions, accused him of poisoning his medicine. He Zhen admitted his guilt, confirming the Old Lord's knowledge of the poisoning. A servant discovered blood, evidence of a prior struggle.
The Old Lord, despite revealing He Zhen wasn’t his biological son, appealed to their years of shared life and affection, promising leniency in exchange for cooperation. He Zhen agreed to answer their questions. Sanqi, having uncovered the truth, led the interrogation. He Zhen revealed he had no original name, only being known as He Zhen since his selection.
Sanqi explained she discovered his true identity by noticing his injured right arm, matching the wound inflicted on the man in black in Shifang Village by Zhao Cuo, and his suspicious reluctance to let her investigate further. He Zhen admitted his oversight.
Though initially hesitant to betray his master due to past suffering and abuse, longing for a life beyond his master's shadow, the Old Lord’s appeal to their father-son bond convinced him to reveal the Deputy Lord as the mastermind. The Deputy Lord was not only the Deputy Lord of Taoyuan City but also the leader of the men in black and the master of both He Zhen and Wumeng.
He Zhen detailed the Deputy Lord's plan, which started when the Old Lord sent young Zhao Cuo to Shifang Village to escape the war. The Deputy Lord exploited this, aiming to kill Zhao Cuo and replace him with a look-alike – a scheme known as "a stranger replaced the young lord." He Zhen was chosen and trained to perfectly imitate Zhao Cuo.
He recounted being told his “parents” were the Lord and Lady of Taoyuan City and his time observing Zhao Cuo in Shifang Village. He confessed to envying Zhao Cuo's carefree life and friendship with Sanqi, contrasting it with his own shadowed existence. Sanqi realized this explained He Zhen’s knowledge of the grimace totem, the name ring, and Zhao Cuo's forgotten promise to give her "fireflies as fireworks."
He Zhen revealed he, not Zhao Cuo, had caught fireflies with Sanqi that night due to Zhao Cuo's illness, and it was He Zhen, wearing a veil, who made the firefly promise. This was the happiest moment of his life. Zhao Cuo confirmed his illness and memory loss. Sanqi observed that a fake always has flaws, explaining He Zhen's eventual exposure; Zhao Cuo jokingly blamed his amnesia for not uncovering the deception sooner.
Sanqi inquired about the discovery of Zhao Cuo's true identity. He Zhen explained that before his planned succession, the Deputy Lord had the body of the fake "young lord" exhumed from Shifang Village. A congenital coccyx deficiency confirmed the body wasn't the real young lord. This led them to focus on Sanqi's investigations to find the real Young Lord. He Zhen mentioned Wumeng initially kept her actions secret from him.
This led to their plan to eliminate Zhao Cuo, Bai Yifei, Sanqi, and the eighteen-year-old youths in Shifang Village to eliminate witnesses. The Old Lord condemned the Deputy Lord's cruelty. He Zhen also revealed the Deputy Lord had systematically poisoned him and cultivated a network of loyalists in the court and army, with their names documented in letters hidden in a bookcase. Commander Zhang was tasked with retrieving these.
The Old Lord, seeking a peaceful resolution to avoid civil war, offered He Zhen a chance at redemption. He proposed that He Zhen lure the Deputy Lord to the Old Lord's resting place the next morning without arousing suspicion. The Old Lord asserted He Zhen wasn’t inherently evil, citing his earlier choice not to kill Zhao Cuo in the southern city. He Zhen, initially resentful, refused, believing his suffering stemmed from his birthright, not Zhao Cuo.
The Old Lord insisted his suffering was the Deputy Lord's doing, urging him to seize the opportunity for freedom. He Zhen agreed to bring the Deputy Lord at dawn. Before departing, Sanqi privately thanked He Zhen for the "fireflies as fireworks" memory. She encouraged him to embrace his own identity and live his own life after the crisis, emphasizing that he didn't need to be Zhao Cuo to have value. The Old Lord then confirmed to Zhao Cuo that he was his long-lost son, leading to a joyful reunion with his family. With war imminent, they anxiously await the dawn.
Episode 24 (Ending) Recap
The old Lord, having uncovered his deputy's treachery, summoned him to the mansion. Instead of the deputy, his disguised personal guard, wearing a human skin mask, arrived. The old Lord feigned illness, discussing future arrangements and requesting the "deputy" assist He Zhen. The guard, maintaining his disguise, pledged loyalty. The old Lord then revealed his knowledge of the deputy's schemes. The impostor retorted, accusing the old Lord of faking his illness.
When the old Lord ordered his arrest, the guard laughed, revealing his true identity and declaring the deputy’s complete control. He boasted that He Zhen, a "puppet" who had leaked information, would not betray him, and that their soldiers were already captured. The old Lord lamented He Zhen's betrayal. The guard was subsequently imprisoned.
He Zhen then requested permission from his father to lead troops to search the deputy's mansion and seal the city gates, believing the deputy hadn't travelled far. The old Lord, grieving his brother's actions, granted permission, urging caution. Sanqi, worried about Zhao Cuo, inquired about his safety, receiving reassurance from the old Lord. Zhao Cuo led the search of the deputy's mansion, finding it empty, lacking supplies or men in black.
Zhao Cuo insisted on a thorough search, suspecting secret passages. They discovered a hidden entrance, leading Zhao Cuo to a confrontation with the deputy. Zhao Cuo urged surrender, but the deputy mocked his youth and impulsiveness, deeming him unfit to rule Taoyuan City and warning him of his recklessness. Despite Zhao Cuo's readiness to fight, the deputy's superior strategy led to his capture. Back at the mansion, the old Lord and Sanqi grew anxious awaiting Zhao Cuo's return.
A soldier arrived with grim news: an ambush at Wujianding, resulting in Zhao Cuo's capture. A letter demanded the old Lord meet them at Wujianding within an hour or never see his son again. Understanding his brother's awareness of their plans, the old Lord decided to go alone to Wujianding, instructing Sanqi to wait for He Ruoyao and the others. At Wujianding, the old Lord confronted the deputy, who held Zhao Cuo captive.
Zhao Cuo urged his father to disregard him and send troops to eliminate their enemies. The old Lord appealed to their brotherhood, questioning his brother's destructive path. The deputy claimed the city lord position rightfully belonged to him as the eldest son. He gloated over his complete control of both the old Lord and his son. Desperate to save Zhao Cuo, the old Lord agreed to the deputy's demands if his son was released.
The deputy presented a prepared imperial edict of abdication, demanding the old Lord transfer power to He Zhen. Zhao Cuo warned his father not to trust him. The deputy pressed the old Lord to choose between his son's life and his position. The old Lord reluctantly signed the edict. However, when he asked for Zhao Cuo, the deputy declared dead men were more reliable, intending to kill Zhao Cuo.
Just as the deputy was about to strike, Sanqi arrived, ordering him to stop. The deputy recognized her, acknowledging her role in exposing He Zhen and disrupting his plans, calling her clever but regrettable. He ordered He Zhen to kill Sanqi to prove his loyalty, blaming Sanqi for He Zhen’s lapse in judgment. He Zhen hesitated, reminding the deputy of his promise to spare Sanqi. The deputy dismissed this, framing it as an opportunity for He Zhen to become ruthless.
He Zhen remained frozen. The deputy taunted him, highlighting the life as Young Lord and future City Lord that awaited him. He again commanded He Zhen to kill Sanqi. Remembering a shared moment with Sanqi, He Zhen chose another path. He turned his weapon on himself, gravely injuring himself to protect Sanqi. He declared his actions were for his own freedom, tired of being a puppet, confessing his indifference to titles, desiring only true freedom.
He confessed his past mistakes and believed this act was finally right, asking Sanqi not to cry. Enraged by He Zhen’s ultimate betrayal, the deputy questioned his actions and turned his anger towards Sanqi, attempting to kill her. Zhao Cuo intervened, vowing the deputy wouldn't leave alive. A fierce battle ensued, ending with Zhao Cuo avenging He Zhen and countless others by killing the deputy. The conspiracy thwarted, Taoyuan City celebrated.
Zhao Cuo and Sanqi, along with He Ruoyao and Master Bai, prepared for their weddings. A local explained to a newcomer that the grand wedding, celebrating the new Young Lord and Lady Jinyan (Sanqi), was held in the southern district because Zhao Cuo had grown up there and had recently reunited with his father. Zhao Cuo, addressing Sanqi, reminisced about their hasty first wedding, promising her the perfect wedding in Taoyuan City, vowing eternal love.
The ceremony proceeded, with Zhao Cuo and Sanqi, and He Ruoyao and Master Bai exchanging vows. They bowed, exchanging name rings, sealing their unions. The city erupted in cheers, celebrating the double wedding. The festivities continued as the new Lord, Zhao Cuo, was congratulated on his ascension, the people cheering "Long live Lord!" and "Long live Lady!" Zhao Cuo then bid them to rise.
