The Sword and The Brocade Recap, Plot, Synopsis

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The Sword and The Brocade Synopsis

During the Ming Dynasty, Luo XI Niang, a concubine’s daughter, is very opinionated despite her humble status. She believes that a woman’s vision should not be confined to the inner house and hopes to fight for the freedom she desires through her skillful embroidery.

After her accidental marriage to General Xu Lingyi, the Marquis of Yongping, she treats everyone around her with optimism and positivity. Relies on her efforts, she gains the trust of the Xu family and returns to the helm of the household.

Xu Lingyi is attracted by Shiyi Niang’s wonderful qualities. Through many difficulties, they married and then fall in love. With her husband’s support, Shiyi Niang opens an embroidery workshop, Xianya Pavilion, to pass on her embroidery skills.

Xu Lingyi has to fight with a ban on foreign trade, to maintain the peace of his family and improve the livelihood of the people.

When the Xu family faces disaster, the couple works together to resolve the situation. They successfully protect the Xu family, eventually leading to the opening of the sea trade.

The couple, in love, believed in each other, persevered in their love, defended themselves against the storms of life together, and created their own legendary life.

The Sword and The Brocade Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

In the midst of a pouring rain, the Residence of Luo echoed with cries as Concubine Lv knelt, pleading with Madam Luo to forgive her daughter, Shiyi. Concubine Lv insisted that Shiyi had not intentionally broken the hairpin of Yuanniang, the legitimate first daughter. Shiyi, known for her stubbornness, endured a harsh flogging without yielding. Madam Luo, unmoved, maintained that the distinction between the legitimate and concubine-born children was an unbreakable rule.

As a result, Shiyi and Concubine Lv were sent to live in a separate estate in Yu Hang. Three years passed. Shiyi had grown into a graceful young woman, excelling in embroidery. However, a sudden summons from Madam Luo forced the mother and daughter to return to the capital. Meanwhile, in a bustling street, Marquis Yongping, Xu Lingyi, a decorated general, stood in an inn, observing the scene below.

He was preoccupied with the pursuit of fugitives from a pirate clan. He had instructed his aide, Lin Bo, to capture the fugitives, Jiang Huai and Liu Yong. Lin Bo was lying in wait at the same inn where Shiyi and Concubine Lv had stopped to rest. Shiyi, with her quick wit, noticed Jiang Huai's suspicious behavior. However, Jiang Huai recognized Lin Bo as a government officer and took Shiyi hostage to escape.

As Xu Lingyi arrived with his soldiers, Shiyi's desperate struggle provided Xu Lingyi with an opportunity. With a precise shot, he wounded Jiang Huai, causing him to fall into the river below. In the ensuing chaos, Shiyi also fell. Xu Lingyi immediately jumped into the water to rescue her but was injured by the struggling Jiang Huai. Fortunately, Lin Shixian, who was boating nearby, extended a helping hand and assisted in their rescue.

Upon waking, Shiyi was met by her anxious maid, Dongqing, and Concubine Lv. Shiyi assured them she was fine. Misunderstanding that Lin Shixian had been her sole rescuer, she went to thank him. Lin Shixian, a gentle man dressed in white, modestly clarified that another person had actually saved her, and he had merely assisted. Shiyi thanked him nonetheless, and they parted ways.

Before returning to the Luo Residence, Shiyi stopped at Xianling Pavilion to visit her embroidery teacher, Master Jian. Knowing Shiyi was of marriageable age, Master Jian speculated that Madam Luo was arranging her marriage. Aware of Madam Luo's ulterior motives and the challenges awaiting her, Shiyi asked Master Jian to help sell her embroidery pieces to alleviate their financial difficulties. After three years away, Shiyi returned to the Luo Residence.

Madam Luo assigned Amber, one of her capable maids, to serve Shiyi. Lord Luo returned shortly after, expressing his delight at seeing Shiyi and Concubine Lv, but Madam Luo's subtle warning prompted him to suppress his joy. In her new, exquisitely furnished room, Shiyi's brow furrowed, confirming her suspicion that their return was not a simple matter. Lady Erniang and Lady Wuniang visited Shiyi's room. Lady Wuniang, straightforward and kind-hearted, treated Shiyi like a sister.

Lady Erniang, however, was arrogant and looked down upon Shiyi. After they left, Shiyi felt increasingly uneasy. Though Lady Erniang had never been fond of her, she had never been so openly disdainful. Shiyi resolved to use the next day's morning greetings to Madam Luo as an opportunity to uncover the truth. The next morning, the three young ladies paid their respects to Madam Luo, who asked them to pick a hairpin for her.

Lady Erniang attempted to take the lead, but Shiyi subtly outmaneuvered her, selecting a velvet peony hairpin that perfectly complemented Madam Luo's hairstyle and pleased her immensely. Madam Luo then announced that the three of them would accompany her to the Xu Family's spring banquet. After leaving, Lady Erniang mockingly hinted that Madam Luo had recalled Shiyi to arrange marriages for them both.

By skillfully provoking Lady Erniang, Shiyi deduced that the Xu Family banquet was a crucial event in these marriage arrangements. Meanwhile, Xu Lingyi returned to the capital after successfully quelling the bandits and was commended with the title of Imperial Tutor of the Second Standard Rank. In a council meeting, he argued that the root cause of the pirate problem was the sea ban, a view opposed by a displeased Marquis Jingyuan. After the meeting, Xu Lingyi returned home.

He was first greeted by his mother, who expressed immense relief at his safe return, and his brother, Lingkuan, who playfully chided him for reporting to the palace before coming home. Learning that his wife Yuanniang's illness had worsened, he rushed to her room. There, Concubine Wen and Concubine Qin came to pay their respects.

A clear contrast was visible between Concubine Wen's outgoing son, Xu Siyu, and Yuanniang's own son, Zhun, who was shy and reluctant to approach his father. In front of his ailing wife and the concubines, Xu Lingyi revealed that he had declined an additional noble title offered by the Emperor.

Episode 2 Recap

In the Marquis Yongping's residence, Xu Lingyi's wife, Yuanniang, questions him about the imperial rewards from his recent military success. Aside from the title of Tutor to the Crown Prince, Xu Lingyi reveals he declined any further promotions, having traded them for the Emperor's agreement to relax the sea ban, aiming to bring peace to the common people plagued by pirates. Upon hearing this, Concubine Wen and Concubine Qin excuse themselves.

Yuanniang, who had hoped his elevated status would secure their son Zhun's future, is deeply disappointed, lamenting the difficulties she faces. Xu Lingyi, offering no comfort, simply tells her to rest. Gravely ill since a miscarriage a year prior, Yuanniang feels neglected and is determined to secure a stable future for her son before she dies.

She worries because Zhun is frail from a premature birth, while his half-brother Yu, a concubine's son, is intelligent and highly praised, posing a potential threat to Zhun's position as heir. Though the family matriarch, Madam Xu, strictly observes the distinction between children of the legal wife and those of concubines, Yuanniang fears Xu Lingyi does not share this view. Later, Xu Lingyi’s aide discreetly reports that Yuanniang's condition has worsened.

Despite his cold demeanor, Xu Lingyi is visibly concerned and loses his appetite. The Xu family's spring banquet begins. Madam Luo arrives with her daughters, Erniang, Wuniang, and Shiyi, cautioning them to mind their etiquette. Yuanniang gifts each sister a jade pendant. Erniang quickly chooses one for "Joy," and Wuniang picks "Good Fortune," leaving Shiyi with the "Fertility and Luck" pendant.

Afterward, Yuanniang tells Madam Luo that Erniang likely avoided the fertility pendant because she guessed Yuanniang's plan to find a successor who would not threaten Zhun's position with her own sons. Seeing her husband's career stalled, Madam Luo agrees with Yuanniang's urgent plan: one sister must marry Xu Lingyi to maintain the Luo-Xu alliance, while another will marry the notorious Wang Yu to secure an alliance with the powerful Jiang family for Zhun.

They agree that no matter who becomes the new wife, their rival Qiao Lianfang is the primary obstacle. Meanwhile, Xu Lingyi is tracking Liu Yong, an escaped pirate, suspecting he has accomplices in the capital. He plans to follow Liu Yong to expose the entire network. During his patrol, Qiao Lianfang approaches and tries to fall into his arms, but he deftly evades her. Wuniang and Shiyi witness the encounter, which sours Shiyi's impression of the Marquis.

In the main hall, the Luo sisters meet the arrogant Qiao Lianfang. Young Madam Jiang, Wang Yu's sister, also arrives to assess the Luo sisters as potential brides for her brother. With Wuniang already engaged, her interest falls on Erniang and Shiyi, and she particularly praises Shiyi's exceptional embroidery.

During the banquet's entertainment, Xu Lingyi's younger brother, Xu Lingkuan, playfully acts as the master of ceremonies for the opera, earning a light rebuke from his mother, which his wife Danyang lovingly defends. Yuanniang sends a maid to invite the young ladies to fly kites, asking Qiao Lianfang to lead them. Madam Luo tries to keep Erniang with her, but Erniang eagerly follows Qiao Lianfang. Shiyi, understanding her mother's unspoken signal, instead follows a servant to Yuanniang's chambers.

Having distanced herself from the others, Qiao Lianfang wanders alone, hoping for another encounter with Xu Lingyi. A maid then "accidentally" spills water on her and offers to lead her to the inner courtyard to change. Qiao Lianfang agrees, seeing an opportunity. This is all part of Yuanniang's scheme. Hearing the code phrase, "Water has mixed with ink," Yuanniang knows the plan is in motion.

She summons Shiyi and deliberately takes her for a stroll toward Jing'an Pavilion, timing their arrival to coincide with Xu Lingyi's return, intending for him to discover Qiao Lianfang in a compromising situation and ruin her reputation.

Episode 3 Recap

In Jing'an Pavilion, Yuanniang's trap was sprung. She confronted Xu Lingyi and Qiao Lianfang, accusing them of impropriety. A desperate Qiao Lianfang claimed it was a misunderstanding, explaining that her clothes had been stained by a maid and she was merely drying them. At Xu Lingyi's request, Shiyi exited the room and stood guard, skillfully preventing the curious Concubine Wen from entering to witness the drama. Soon after, the Great Madam and her niece's mother, Madam Qiao, arrived.

Madam Qiao, who had hoped to see her daughter become the next legal wife, was horrified when Yuanniang leveraged the scandal to force Qiao Lianfang into becoming a concubine. Madam Qiao pleaded with the Great Madam, but the decision was deferred to Xu Lingyi. He initially refused, offering to help arrange another marriage for Qiao Lianfang with a generous dowry. However, deeply in love with him, Qiao Lianfang declared she would willingly be his concubine.

Citing the importance of a woman's reputation, the Great Madam pressed her son, and Xu Lingyi, as a filial son, reluctantly conceded. Later, Xu Lingyi expressed his profound disappointment to Yuanniang, lamenting that their relationship, which he hoped could at least be one of mutual respect, had devolved into suspicion and schemes. While Yuanniang admitted to orchestrating the day's events, she revealed the full extent of her plan only to her mother, Madam Luo.

She had engineered the situation to secure a future for her son, Zhun, by installing her sister, Shiyi, as the next legal wife. Yuanniang reasoned that with the high-born Qiao Lianfang as a powerful concubine, Shiyi, being a mere concubine's daughter, would be restrained and forced to rely on the Luo family for support, making her easier to control. To fulfill his dying wife's wishes, Xu Lingyi agreed to her arrangements.

He also consented to betroth Zhun to the daughter of Jiang Song, who held no official position, thus avoiding political entanglements for the Xu family. Back at the Luo residence, Shiyi's mother, Concubine Lü, learned from Concubine Duan that Madam Luo was considering a marriage alliance with the son of Duke Mao, the infamous libertine Wang Yu. Shiyi instantly connected this with the events at the Xu mansion and deduced that Yuanniang's chosen successor was her.

While Concubine Lü saw the position of a marquis's wife as a great opportunity, Shiyi was appalled. She declared her desire to live an independent life like her teacher, Master Jian, and would rather remain unmarried than spend her life in conflict with other women over a husband. Determined to forge her own path, Shiyi snuck out of the mansion under the pretense of visiting her teacher.

At the wharf, she accidentally knocked over a rouge stall, leading to a dispute with the vendor. Xu Lingyi, who was investigating a case nearby, intervened. Recognizing Shiyi from a past encounter with pirates and as his sister-in-law, he offered to escort her home. Shiyi politely declined, leaving him with a cryptic remark about his loyalty to her sister. Shortly after, she met Lin Shixian, who impressed her with his knowledge of tea.

Shiyi confided her plan to rent a boat back to her hometown of Yuhang. As Lin Shixian was also traveling south, he offered her passage on his boat for half the price. They agreed to meet at Ci'an Temple on the first day of the next month. Meanwhile, Madam Luo was informed that the Jiang family was interested in a match with the demure Erniang.

However, Madam Luo decided to marry Erniang to Wang Yu instead, viewing her, a concubine's daughter, as an expendable piece to secure the alliance for Zhun. Upon hearing the devastating news from her mother, Concubine Duan, Erniang was consumed with rage. Believing Shiyi had stolen her prospective marriage, she vowed to take revenge. Erniang went to an entertainment house frequented by Wang Yu and orchestrated a "chance" encounter by stumbling in front of him.

Captivated by her beauty, Wang Yu was immediately interested. Seizing the opportunity, Erniang introduced herself as "Luo Shiyi" and claimed that "Erniang" was a frail, bedridden invalid. Unwilling to marry a sickly woman, Wang Yu was completely deceived and decided to pursue the woman he believed to be Shiyi.

Episode 4 Recap

At the Luo Residence, Yuanniang and Madam Luo discuss an unexpected change: the Wang family, who previously sought to marry Erniang, now insist on having Shiyi as Wang Yu's bride. Seizing the opportunity, Yuanniang decides that sacrificing Shiyi to the Wang family is necessary to secure her son Zhun’s crucial marriage alliance with the Jiang family. Having settled Shiyi's fate, Yuanniang also finalizes her own succession plan, choosing her sister Erniang to become Xu Lingyi's next wife.

She remarks that Erniang has been thoughtfully sending small gifts to Zhun, taking it as a sign of destiny. Concubine Lv desperately pleads with Lord Luo to cancel Shiyi's engagement to Wang Yu, reminding him of Wang Yu’s notorious reputation throughout the capital as a ruthless and cruel bully, fearing Shiyi would suffer immensely. Although Lord Luo is sympathetic, he feels powerless, stating the matter is too significant as it affects the entire Luo family and Marquis Yongping's Mansion.

He defers the final decision to Madam Luo, who remains resolute, believing it is a great blessing for a concubine's daughter like Shiyi to marry into the Wang family and become the future wife of Duke Mao. She assures Lord Luo that she will ensure Shiyi willingly enters the bridal sedan. Madam Luo then confronts Shiyi about embroideries retrieved from Xianling Pavilion, accusing her of secretly selling them.

Shiyi explains she had only intended to seek guidance from her teacher, Master Jian. However, both Concubine Lv and Shiyi’s maid, Dongqing, quickly confess, claiming responsibility to protect Shiyi from punishment. As they are being flogged, Shiyi cries out, admitting it was her fault and begging to be punished instead.

After a few strikes, Madam Luo halts the punishment, sternly warning Shiyi that in the Luo family, she is the one who sets the rules, and any future transgressions will not be easily forgiven. Later, Concubine Lv, still unwilling for Shiyi to marry Wang Yu, plans to visit the Wang family and claim Shiyi suffers from a chronic cough to break off the engagement.

Shiyi, concerned about her mother facing Madam Luo’s wrath, reveals her own daring plan: to escape the marriage altogether. Concubine Lv is initially shocked by the risky idea but ultimately supports Shiyi, agreeing to leave with her for Yuhang on the first day of the next month. Shiyi assures her mother they can rely on her embroidery skills to make a living and plans to take passage on Mr. Lin's boat.

Meanwhile, Qiao Lianfang prepares to marry Xu Lingyi as his concubine. Madam Qiao expresses sorrow that her legitimate daughter must enter the Xu family in such a manner, but Qiao Lianfang remains firm. Madam Qiao reminds her that Yuanniang is gravely ill and won’t live much longer. She emphasizes Lianfang’s noble status as a legitimate daughter, far superior to the concubine’s daughter Yuanniang intends to promote.

Madam Qiao believes that with Xu Lingyi’s favor and the Great Madam's support, especially if Lianfang bears a son, the Qiao family can ensure she eventually becomes the legal wife. Qiao Lianfang arrives at the Xu mansion in heavy rain, with no grand bridal sedan or celebratory music. She is brought through a side door in a small sedan, accompanied only by her maids.

Nanny Tao, a servant of the Great Madam, deliberately humiliates her, forcing her to exit the sedan outside and walk through the muddy ground. Nanny Tao even makes her put away her umbrella, deeming it an inauspicious omen. Despite the humiliation, Qiao Lianfang complies, walking through the rain into the Xu mansion. That evening, Xu Lingyi, feeling no desire to marry Qiao Lianfang, is reluctant to enter her room. Pressured by the Great Madam, he eventually visits.

Qiao Lianfang has meticulously prepared, playing his favorite music and using his preferred incense. Yet, Xu Lingyi remains distant. He tells her he is not a good match for her and can only offer a life of peace and comfort, but nothing more. Despite Qiao Lianfang's pleas for him to stay, Xu Lingyi leaves for the Half-moon Chamber. The next morning, news that Qiao Lianfang was left alone on her wedding night spreads through the mansion.

The Great Madam furiously orders the gossiping maids to be sold. She then publicly shows great favor to Qiao Lianfang, having her sit and eat breakfast with her, declaring that she treats Lianfang like her own daughter, while sending the other two concubines to eat in their own courtyards. This show of support reaches Yuanniang’s ears. Her maid expresses concern that if Qiao Lianfang becomes the legal wife, it would harm Yuanniang's son, Zhun.

Yuanniang, however, dismisses Lianfang as merely a concubine who will not amount to much. When Qiao Lianfang comes to offer her tea and pay her respects, Yuanniang gives her a harsh reception, forcing her to kneel and refusing to accept the tea.

Episode 5 Recap

During the tea ceremony, Yuanniang admonished Qiao Lianfang, warning her to be discreet and serve Xu Lingyi well, rather than letting her ambitions get the better of her. Qiao Lianfang asserted that her sincerity would eventually move Xu Lingyi, but Yuanniang retorted that while sincerity can move mountains, human hearts are sometimes harder than stone, before dismissing her. Shortly after, Concubine Wen arrived.

Yuanniang, aware of her limited time, warned Concubine Wen against being swayed by Qiao Lianfang, citing the business conflicts between the Wen and Qiao families. She advised Wen to support the future legal wife to form a "tripartite balance of forces" against Concubine Qiao, a strategy Concubine Wen understood to be in her family's best interest. Meanwhile, Xu Lingyi explained his strategy to a subordinate for capturing the fugitive pirate Liu Yong.

Having conspicuously searched the north, south, and west of the capital, they left the east untouched to funnel Liu Yong there. Xu Lingyi predicted that the eased search would lure Liu Yong into seeking help, allowing them to follow his trail and uncover his collaborators. Shiyi went to bid farewell to Master Jian, who gave her clothes and money from her embroidery work. That evening, Shiyi gave Concubine Lv a newly embroidered perfume satchel with a protection talisman.

The mother and daughter reminisced about their three happy years in Yuhang. When Concubine Lv worried about the chaos their departure might cause, Shiyi reasoned that her leaving was for the best, as it would compel Erniang to marry into the Xu family, saving her from an undesirable marriage to Wang Yu. The next day, as Shiyi and Concubine Lv prepared to leave, Madam Wang from Duke Mao's Mansion arrived to see Shiyi.

To ensure they could meet Lin Shixian on time, Shiyi sent Concubine Lv and Dongqing ahead to Ci'an Temple while she handled the visitor. Unbeknownst to them, the temple was closed for the day, exclusively hosting the Xu family for prayers. Upon reaching the temple, Concubine Lv realized she had lost the new satchel and went back to find it, telling Dongqing to wait. At the same time, Liu Yong also arrived at the temple, setting the stage for tragedy.

At the temple, Xu Lingyi was informed that Liu Yong had been located. He instructed his younger brother to escort their mother and the other women to safety within the temple grounds. Shiyi soon arrived and, upon learning from Dongqing that her mother had gone back for the satchel, rushed off to find her. She discovered Concubine Lv's lifeless body, covered in blood. As a grief-stricken Shiyi clung to her mother, Xu Lingyi arrived at the scene.

He gently persuaded her to release the body for an official examination, explaining it was the only way to find the killer before they could escape. Shiyi tearfully complied. Xu Lingyi arranged for a carriage to take Shiyi home and ordered his men to monitor the investigation, suspecting a connection to Liu Yong. Meanwhile, Lin Shixian, having waited for Shiyi as long as he could, reluctantly departed for his urgent journey south.

Back at the Luo residence, the Shuntian Prefecture Office quickly closed the case, declaring that Concubine Lv was killed by the fugitive Liu Yong after she stumbled upon him. Shiyi's father accepted this conclusion, influenced by his wife and the fact that a deeper investigation into their unauthorized trip would damage the family’s reputation and his own career prospects.

Shiyi, clutching a piece of fabric she found in her mother's hand, insisted the fugitive was not the killer and pleaded with her father to demand a reinvestigation, but he angrily refused, blaming the tragedy on their disobedience. Later, Madam Luo confronted Shiyi alone, bluntly accusing her of causing Concubine Lv's death by planning to flee her marriage.

She warned Shiyi that she was not as indulgent as her mother and to accept her fate, leaving Shiyi devastated by guilt and grief. The news reached the Xu family, where Concubine Wen and Concubine Qin speculated that Concubine Lv and Shiyi had intentionally gone to the temple to "coincidentally" meet them and curry favor, only for their plan to end in tragedy. In prison, Xu Lingyi confronted Liu Yong's accomplice, Jiang Huai, with news of Liu Yong's death.

He offered to protect Jiang Huai and vowed to work towards lifting the sea ban if Jiang would reveal his collaborators. Jiang Huai scoffed, stating the power behind them was someone Xu Lingyi could never defeat, then committed suicide, leaving Xu Lingyi to ponder which powerful official who supported the sea ban could be responsible. Amber secretly brought Master Jian to comfort Shiyi.

Master Jian urged Shiyi to be strong, reminding her that Concubine Lv had acted out of deep love, wanting a better life for her daughter. She warned that those blaming Shiyi had ulterior motives, seeking to break her spirit. Reinvigorated, Shiyi showed Master Jian the fabric from the killer. Master Jian identified the material as common "xuejuan" but noted the embroidery technique and pattern were unique and promised to investigate its origin.

Determined to find justice, Shiyi disguised herself as a servant to sneak out of the mansion, telling a worried Amber that she would not give up on finding her mother's real killer.

Episode 6 Recap

Amber, despite being Luo Madam's confidante, showed her compassion by allowing Shiyi to leave the Luo Residence. She warned Shiyi that she could only delay reporting her absence for one hour, after which she would have to inform Luo Madam. Shiyi expressed her gratitude and rushed to the Shuntian Prefecture Office but was denied entry despite her pleas that Concubine Lv's case had hidden truths. Unyielding, Shiyi proceeded to Ci'an Temple, hoping to find a witness.

At the temple, Shiyi questioned a young monk named Qingming about the day her mother died. Qingming initially claimed ignorance but, upon learning the victim was Shiyi's mother, recalled seeing Concubine Lv in the Octagonal Pavilion. He also remembered seeing another woman in the pavilion, though he only caught a glimpse of her back. He deduced the woman must have been from the Marquis's household, as the temple was exclusively hosting the female members of the Xu family that day.

Just as Shiyi was being taken away by the arriving Luo family servants, Qingming remembered another detail but had no time to share it. Upon her return, Shiyi faced Luo Madam, who sternly reprimanded Dongqing. Shiyi intervened, taking full responsibility and fabricating a story that she had gone to Ci'an Temple to pay respects to Concubine Lv, having decided to accept Luo Madam's arrangements. Pleased, Luo Madam confirmed her sincerity and promised a proper burial for Concubine Lv.

Later, Dongqing accused Amber of betrayal, but Shiyi defended her, explaining Amber's help had been crucial. Overhearing this, Amber quietly stated she had only done her duty. In private, Luo Madam reflected on her successful use of psychological warfare to control Shiyi, confident she could not escape her grasp. Meanwhile, Shiyi realized her mother's death was connected to the Xu family and resolved to find a way to approach them.

During the Dragon Boat Festival, Yuanniang presented Xu Lingyi with a handcrafted perfume satchel and inquired about their son Zhun's marriage arrangements with the Jiang family, which Xu Lingyi confirmed were underway. Later, Xu Lingyi visited the Luo Residence. He explained to Master Luo the political difficulties delaying his reinstatement. Afterwards, his subordinate Lin Bo mentioned rumors that Concubine Lv had died because she and her daughter were trying to get close to the Xu family.

Shiyi, overhearing this, fiercely confronted Lin Bo, defending her mother's honor and asserting their outing had no connection to any social-climbing ambitions. Xu Lingyi ordered a chagrined Lin Bo to apologize and vowed to punish anyone in his household caught spreading such rumors. As the tension eased, Erniang sarcastically insinuated that Shiyi was already trying to seduce Xu Lingyi. Shiyi retorted that Erniang's words insulted Xu Lingyi as well.

Erniang then accused Shiyi of acting like the Marquis's new wife while Yuanniang was still alive. Reflecting on these events, Shiyi deduced that Erniang had orchestrated the marriage proposal from Wang Yu to escape it herself. Resolved to prevent Erniang from marrying into the Xu family, especially since her scheme had indirectly led to Concubine Lv's death, Shiyi took action. When the Wang family's matchmaker arrived, Shiyi discreetly handed over her own portrait.

Later, Erniang presented Shiyi with beauty products, taunting her that the playboy Wang Yu would be hard to keep. Suddenly, Wang Yu burst into the residence, demanding to see Luo Shiyi. Upon seeing her, he realized he had been deceived. Enraged, he accused Erniang of seducing him while pretending to be Shiyi and lying about the second daughter being "sickly."

Ignoring Erniang's panicked denials, Wang Yu grabbed her, forcefully kissed her in front of everyone, and declared she was the only one he wanted. Witnessing the public scandal, Luo Madam was forced to accept the outcome and had a distraught Erniang escorted away. Erniang desperately pleaded with her mother, calling Wang Yu a "beast," but Luo Madam was unyielding, stating Erniang had brought this fate upon herself.

When Erniang and her own mother, Concubine Liu, threatened suicide, Luo Madam coldly dismissed them. She then threatened that if Erniang died, she would leverage the scandal to ensure the Jiang family proceeded with their marriage to Zhun. Later, Luo Madam learned that Shiyi had orchestrated the reveal by giving her own portrait to the matchmaker. In despair, Erniang realized Shiyi had ruined her plan.

Dongqing expressed concern that Shiyi would marry Xu Lingyi solely for revenge, but Shiyi firmly declared that finding her mother's killer was more important than anything else. News of Yuanniang's deteriorating condition prompted Luo Madam and Shiyi to rush to the Xu mansion. On her deathbed, Yuanniang expressed her sorrow to Xu Lingyi, feeling she had failed him. Knowing her end was near, she made a final plea: for their son Zhun's sake, he must marry Shiyi.

Xu Lingyi hesitated, citing Shiyi's youth, but moved by Yuanniang's desperation, he finally agreed, stipulating, "as long as she's willing." Relieved, Yuanniang beckoned Shiyi closer. She warned her that the mansion was fraught with hidden dangers and that her own illness was suspiciously incurable. After entrusting Zhun to Shiyi's future care and singing him a final lullaby, Yuanniang turned to Xu Lingyi, asked for his forgiveness for not being a good wife, and passed away. With a heavy heart, Xu Lingyi vowed to fulfill his promise.

Episode 7 Recap

Following Yuanniang's passing, the women in the Xu family's inner quarters showed no visible sorrow, instead engaging in power struggles. Concubine Wen commiserated with Qiao Lianfang, lamenting that a high-born lady like her was now outranked by an illegitimate daughter like Shiyi. Lianfang feigned contentment, stating she only wished to be by Xu Lingyi's side.

In return for this show of support, Lianfang offered to have her family assist Concubine Wen's family business, though Wen feigned modesty, claiming she had no ulterior motive. Observing this discord, Xu Lingyi felt deeply disappointed with his household. Meanwhile, Great Madam voiced her concerns about Xu Lingyi, who had been in low spirits, neglecting food and sleep since Yuanniang's demise. She recalled that Xu Lingyi and Yuanniang had initially been courteous to each other but had grown apart.

Despite hoping that Shiyi's arrival might bring change, Great Madam harbored deep suspicions, believing Shiyi had conspired with Yuanniang to manipulate Qiao Lianfang into a concubinage. Great Madam worried that Shiyi's calculating nature would make her an unfit matron for the Xu household and stated that she would never have agreed to the marriage had Xu Lingyi not already given his promise.

Danyang interjected, suggesting Yuanniang's actions were driven by concern for Zhun's well-being, but Great Madam questioned if merely being a good stepmother was enough, doubting a concubine's daughter could manage such a large family. Danyang reassured her that with Great Madam's guidance, Shiyi only needed to be dutiful and treat Xu Lingyi well.

Shiyi traveled to Ci'an Temple in search of the young monk Qingming, only to be informed that he had gone on a journey with his master, leaving her unable to find him. A year later, with the mourning period over, it was Shiyi's wedding day. As she prepared, her sister Wuniang arrived, admiring the wedding gown and warning her about the challenging concubines in the Marquis's mansion.

Shiyi confessed her envy for Wuniang's harmonious marriage with Qian Ming, who, Wuniang revealed, had unfortunately failed the imperial examination again. Wuniang also mentioned seeing Erniang, noting her absence from the Luo family since her marriage but expressing confidence that Erniang's strong personality would prevent her from being bullied. Soon after, Luo Madam visited, imparting stern advice on Shiyi's new role.

She cautioned Shiyi to be meticulous, warning her about arrogant servants who might be spies and advising her to establish her authority as the main wife. Luo Madam reminded Shiyi of her promise to Yuanniang to care for Zhun, which Shiyi affirmed she would uphold. Outside the Luo mansion, Xu Lingyi arrived to collect his bride. He faced traditional challenges from the Luo family, including complex philosophical questions about governance, which he answered eloquently.

Finally, Shiyi was escorted into the palanquin, and the procession made its way to the Xu mansion. The couple entered the main hall and performed the customary bowing rituals, officially sealing their marriage. On their wedding night, Shiyi was visibly anxious. After Xu Lingyi unveiled her, she met his gaze, which he noted as audacious.

He sternly reminded her to abide by the Xu family rules and warned her that he would not tolerate a repeat of the scheming that led to Qiao Lianfang's situation, implying Shiyi's involvement. Shiyi accepted his accusation without explanation, wishing only to rest. Seeing her struggle to undo her elaborate hairpins, Xu Lingyi helped her. As they lay in bed, Xu Lingyi recalled Yuanniang's dying wish for him to treat Shiyi with respect and ensure she cared for Zhun.

Shiyi, feeling unprepared for intimacy, feigned a stomachache to get a drink of water, only returning after she believed Xu Lingyi was asleep. Sensing her reluctance, Xu Lingyi did not press her and subtly adjusted the blanket to cover her. Meanwhile, Qiao Lianfang, despite outwardly displaying humility to Great Madam, privately harbored resentment. She listened as Great Madam consoled her over the new marriage.

Privately, Lianfang confided to her maid her frustration that Xu Lingyi had rarely visited in the past year, making it harder to win his affections now that Shiyi had arrived. Her maid reassured her that Xu Lingyi was aloof with all his wives and that Shiyi, a concubine's daughter who supposedly schemed her way into the position, could not compare to Lianfang's talent. Lianfang realized that holding onto this belief and maintaining Great Madam's favor were her keys to influence.

In the Wang residence, Erniang endured a miserable wedding night. Her husband, Wang Yu, returned home intoxicated and demanded her dowry jewelry to sell for more drink. When Erniang resisted, Wang Yu became violent and beat her. The next morning, Xu Lingyi woke to find Shiyi's hand resting on his. She woke as he did, and they shared an awkward moment before he rose early for a palace visit.

As the maids Amber and Dongqing helped Shiyi prepare to greet Great Madam, Dongqing selected an overly elaborate outfit, which Shiyi rejected for something simpler. Dongqing then tried to assert authority over Amber, but Shiyi intervened, announcing that Amber and Dongqing would manage her affairs together. Dongqing protested, reminding Shiyi that Amber had been Yuanniang's informant.

Shiyi defended Amber, stating she was merely a pawn in the past and that having her involved would put Great Madam at ease, allowing Shiyi to focus on her own priorities. At the imperial court, a heated debate unfolded over the sea ban. Xu Lingyi argued passionately for lifting it, citing the poverty it caused, which forced coastal citizens into piracy. Marquis Jingyuan strongly opposed, arguing the ban was crucial for defense.

Xu Lingyi retorted that it was their duty to fight pirates, not to cripple trade. Vice Minister Ou accused him of exaggeration, but Xu Lingyi sharply criticized his ignorance of the commoners' suffering. Duke Wei offered a moderate view, agreeing that lifting the ban could help but noting it was an ancestral law requiring the Emperor's decision. Grand Secretary Chen tabled the discussion, instructing Xu Lingyi to focus on tea tax reform instead.

Later, Shiyi arrived at the main hall to pay her respects. Qiao Lianfang was already there, playing affectionately with little Zhun to showcase her bond with him. Shiyi greeted Great Madam, who gifted her some old jewelry. Great Madam then formally introduced Lianfang to Shiyi, instructing them to live in harmony as sisters. Shiyi politely greeted Lianfang as "Madam," and Lianfang, in turn, addressed herself as "Concubine Qiao," acknowledging the new hierarchy.

Episode 8 Recap

Qiao Lianfang came to pay her respects to Shiyi, and Great Madam encouraged the two to get along. Great Madam then called Zhun forward to meet his new mother. Zhun, however, refused to acknowledge Shiyi, stating that he knew she was an illegitimate daughter, unlike his biological mother who was a legitimate daughter. Shiyi calmly reasoned with Zhun, explaining that since she was his father's wife, he should call her Mother.

Convinced, Zhun addressed her as such, and Shiyi presented him with a scented sachet. Soon after, Qiao Lianfang appeared with Zhun's favorite rose crystal cake. While wiping Zhun’s hands, she pointedly took the sachet from him before sending him off to his morning class. Shiyi merely offered a faint smile in response. Later, Danyang, a County Mistress personally appointed by His Majesty, expressed her reluctance to meet Shiyi.

She complained to her husband, Xu Lingkuan, that she, a County Mistress, would now be in-laws with an illegitimate daughter. Xu Lingkuan persuaded her to give Xu Lingyi face, reminding her that he had officially married Shiyi. Despite her reservations, Danyang, who was newly pregnant, reluctantly agreed to meet Shiyi. When Shiyi presented a comfortable dress she had made for her, Danyang remarked that she prioritized comfort over design during pregnancy, dismissing the thoughtful gesture.

Xu Lingkuan, however, sincerely thanked Shiyi. Meanwhile, Xu Lingyi and Fan Weigang discussed the sea ban. They suspected the Ou family's involvement in the death of Official Hu, a governor executed for failing to defend the coast, and the subsequent resurgence of pirates he had suppressed. Xu Lingyi believed that the pirates and Official Hu’s death were connected to the Ou family, which also had a deep-seated feud with the Xu family.

Xu Lingyi had purposefully brought up the sea ban in court to "startle the snake in the grass," hoping to draw out his enemies. He noted that Duke Wei, Official Hu's close friend, remained uncharacteristically silent during the discussion, suggesting he was not at peace with Official Hu's demise. Xu Lingyi decided to leverage Official Hu’s death to approach Duke Wei, hoping to gain his influential support for lifting the sea ban.

Back in the mansion, Qiao Lianfang publicly offered to hand over the management of household affairs to Shiyi. Shiyi humbly declined, stating her unfamiliarity with the Xu family rules. Just then, a maid was caught stealing imperial Sichuan brocade. Great Madam, wanting to observe Shiyi’s judgment, asked for her opinion. The maid confessed she stole the brocade to buy expensive ginseng for her gravely ill mother.

Shiyi suggested that while the theft was wrong, the maid’s filial piety was commendable and recommended a punishment of twenty flogs as a lesson. Qiao Lianfang, however, insisted on strictly following the family rules and selling the maid. To establish Lianfang’s authority, Great Madam initially sided with her. Feeling pity, Second Madam intervened and proposed sending the maid to a country manor instead.

Great Madam conceded and then decreed that Qiao Lianfang would continue to manage the household for the time being. The recovered brocade was distributed, and Danyang lamented her inability to find exquisite fan designs to match her new clothes for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Shiyi, revealing her proficiency in needlework, offered to provide novel fan embroidery designs she had learned from Master Jian of the Xianling Pavilion. Danyang, her initial resentment towards Shiyi having softened, agreed to let her try.

Later, Xu Lingyi returned home and found Zhun playing instead of attending his morning class. He sternly rebuked Zhun and ordered him to perform a horse stance. When Zhun cried, Xu Lingyi reminded him that a true man must endure hardship. Great Madam scolded Xu Lingyi for being too harsh, recalling his own childhood mischief of constantly running to the restroom during practice. Xu Lingyi corrected her, clarifying that it was his younger brother, Lingkuan, who was so restless.

Lingkuan sheepishly confirmed this, and Great Madam affectionately took Zhun away for cake. Shiyi asked her maid Amber to gather information on the household. Amber reported that surprisingly, none of Xu Lingyi’s three concubines were favored. Concubine Wen’s family had provided crucial financial aid during a difficult campaign, leading to her marriage into the family. Concubine Qin, originally Great Madam’s maid, was given to Xu Lingyi after she nursed him back to health from a coma.

Shiyi was particularly surprised that even Qiao Lianfang, with her noble background and close ties to Great Madam, was also neglected. She briefly wondered if Xu Lingyi had a hidden illness but dismissed the thought, recalling his actions on their wedding night did not suggest he lacked desire. The three concubines came to pay their respects. On Amber's advice, Shiyi wore a striking red dress to project authority. Concubine Qin offered tea first.

Qiao Lianfang followed, warning Shiyi that the tea was hot. Meeting her gaze, Shiyi calmly replied, "One who wishes to wear the crown must bear its weight," before accepting the tea. After the ceremony, Lianfang announced they had brought their finest embroidery pieces for Shiyi's review for the fan designs. Concubine Wen presented an exquisite "peacock among flowers" design, while Concubine Qin showcased a piece depicting a mother cow and her calf.

Shiyi understood Lianfang’s "one arrow, two birds" strategy: to intimidate her into backing down and to sow discord between her and the other concubines. She accepted the task because examining their embroidery was a crucial step in her private investigation into her sister's death. That night, Xu Lingyi arrived at Shiyi’s residence. He asked her to help him change, but she fumbled awkwardly with his belt, so he did it himself. He then asked her to test his bath water.

She declared the hot water "just right." Xu Lingyi wryly quoted the same "endure hardship" lecture he had given Zhun and suggested she bathe if the temperature was so suitable. Flustered, Shiyi quickly had cold water added. After his bath, she deliberately waited until she thought he was asleep before getting into bed.

Episode 9 Recap

The morning after their wedding night, Shiyi was still uncomfortable sharing a bed with Xu Lingyi, tensing at his every move. When he found her awake, she claimed she couldn't sleep and wanted to read. Understanding her need for space, Xu Lingyi suggested she move to the warm partition. Relieved, Shiyi took her comforter and settled there. Before leaving for the imperial court the next morning, Xu Lingyi found her asleep with her comforter kicked off and gently covered her.

Later, Shiyi confided in her maid, Dongqing, that she was not used to sleeping beside Xu Lingyi and cared little for his favor, as her true purpose was to find her mother's murderer, after which she intended to leave the Xu estate. Elsewhere, Xu Lingyi and Official Fan approached Duke Wei to discuss the upcoming Summer Hunt.

The Duke, however, was still grieving the death of his old rival, Official Hu, and saw no point in the archery competition without him. Xu Lingyi recognized the Duke’s lingering sorrow, which was suppressed by an imperial edict, and decided the hunt would be the perfect opportunity to have an honest conversation with him. Later, it was time for Shiyi’s ceremonial return to her family home. Shiyi's brother arrived with gifts for Great Madam Xu from Madam Luo.

After the formal greetings at the Luo residence, Madam Luo took Shiyi aside. She was furious to learn that Concubine Qiao was managing the household, calling Shiyi useless. The Young Madam of the Luo family defended Shiyi, explaining that Concubine Qiao, Great Madam Xu's niece, had been in the family longer and Shiyi needed time to earn their trust.

Madam Luo ignored this and urged Shiyi to follow Nanny Tao's advice to reclaim her authority, warning that if Concubine Qiao bore a son, Shiyi would lose not just her power but her very position as the primary wife. Lady Wuniang and Lady Erniang also came to visit. Wuniang was genuinely happy for Shiyi, admiring her vibrant appearance, while Erniang feigned pleasantries, concealing a bruise on her hand.

During the family banquet, Erniang deliberately created tension by bringing up the late Yuanniang's favorite dish. She then provoked Shiyi further by mentioning a dish her mother, Concubine Lv, had said Shiyi loved, causing an unnerved Shiyi to spill soup on Xu Lingyi. Madam Luo harshly reprimanded her for her clumsiness and lack of composure, but Xu Lingyi intervened, defending Shiyi's gentle nature and assuring his mother-in-law that his own mother would guide her.

The Young Master of the Luo family then defused the situation by joking about his hunger, allowing the dinner to end peacefully. On the carriage ride back, Xu Lingyi accused Shiyi of complaining to her mother about the household authority, questioning why she resorted to "behind-the-scenes actions" like Yuanniang. Shiyi, offended by the comparison, retorted that it was improper to speak ill of the deceased.

When they arrived, she pointedly refused his offered hand and got out of the carriage herself. Annoyed, Xu Lingyi declared he had urgent business at his office and left, despite his attendant reminding him he had no appointments. At his office, Xu Lingyi confided in his lieutenant, Lin Bo, that his marriage to Shiyi was not his choice but a duty to fulfill Yuanniang's dying wish, and he only hoped for a peaceful coexistence.

That night, he stayed in his study at Banyuepan instead of the Western Courtyard. Hearing this, Concubine Wen gossiped to Concubine Qin that Shiyi had already fallen out of favor and was no match for Yuanniang. Concubine Qin disagreed, finding Shiyi kinder and more approachable, but Concubine Wen dismissed this, remarking that those without power are always easy to get along with.

The following day, Great Madam Xu advised Xu Lingyi to spend more time with his concubines, reminding him that they depended on him. Taking her advice, he first visited Qiao Lianfang, whom he found playing the zither. As she played, Lianfang recalled their first meeting when his music had captivated her, and she proposed they play a duet.

Distracted by thoughts of court affairs, Xu Lingyi thanked her for taking care of his mother while he was away on campaign and promised to guide her zither practice in the future. Upon leaving, he instructed his attendant to send her a red musical score from his study, remarking that he had not played in over a decade. Lianfang, who had dressed up in anticipation, was crestfallen when only the music score arrived, not Xu Lingyi himself.

Next, Xu Lingyi visited Concubine Wen. Eager to win his favor, she had prepared a lavish meal, including an expensive ginseng chicken soup made with a 100-year-old ginseng root, pine mushrooms, and deer antlers. A frugal man, Xu Lingyi was appalled by her extravagance. He declined the soup, claiming he had urgent matters to attend to, and suggested she give the costly dish to his son, Yu, who could better benefit from it. Finally, he went to Concubine Qin's quarters.

She served him tea and asked his opinion on a painting. Xu Lingyi recognized it as a valuable work by Lin Chun, but Concubine Qin admitted she knew little about art and had merely found it while tidying. The conversation soon turned to her lingering sorrow over her past miscarriage and inability to have more children. Unable to offer real comfort, Xu Lingyi advised her to take care of her health and departed.

That night, Xu Lingyi was jolted awake by a nightmare in which an imperial edict condemned his family to execution for military failure. He went to the courtyard for air and found Shiyi there. She noted his troubled expression, sharing her belief that quiet contemplation at night can bring clarity. When she commented that a powerful man like him should have no worries, he pointedly replied that her presence there suggested she had them too.

Shiyi then clarified her position on the household, stating she had no desire to compete for authority; her only concern was that the household be managed well, regardless of by whom. As their conversation ended, Shiyi astutely observed his true inner conflict: he thought too much about problems he felt powerless to change. The next day, Shiyi began her private investigation into her mother's death. She visited Princess Danyang on the pretext of discussing embroidery designs for a fan.

Danyang and her maid were initially condescending, assuming the illegitimate -born Shiyi was desperately trying to curry favor. However, Shiyi impressed them with her expertise, correctly identifying a piece in Danyang's collection as a rare work from Jifeng Hall in Hangzhou. After examining the collection, Shiyi found no patterns or fabrics matching the clue from her mother's belongings and politely took her leave. She then continued her search by visiting the Second Madam to inspect her embroidery as well.

Episode 10 Recap

Observing Shiyi meticulously examining embroidery, Yizhen realized her purpose extended beyond designing fans. Yizhen offered Shiyi new tea and pledged her help, reminding her that as family, she could speak freely. Taking the opportunity, Shiyi inquired about the day of her mother's death at Ci'an Temple, asking if Yizhen, who was also present, had noticed anyone suspicious.

Yizhen replied that she had stayed by Great Madam's side the entire day and saw nothing unusual, advising Shiyi to let go of the past. Shiyi noted internally that Yizhen, the intelligent wife of the second son, Xu Ling'an, seemed to bear no ill will, but with no new clues revealed, she realized she would have to find another way to investigate. Later, Shiyi and Dongqing struggled to pick flowers in the courtyard. Xu Lingyi, passing by, effortlessly helped them.

He then raised the matter of household management, clarifying that Qiao Lianfang was only temporarily in charge due to Shiyi's recent arrival. As the rightful matron, Shiyi was expected to familiarize herself with the duties and assume control. Shiyi was surprised by his fairness, which contrasted with Great Madam's favoritism towards Concubine Qiao. Subsequently, Shiyi went to pay respects to Great Madam.

Having found no leads from the embroidery, she humbly declined to contribute to the fan designs, claiming her skills were inadequate. This retreat emboldened Qiao Lianfang, who confidently recommended a famous embroiderer, a suggestion Great Madam accepted. While Shiyi's maids fumed at Qiao Lianfang's arrogance, Shiyi advised them against engaging in trivial disputes. Meanwhile, Qiao Lianfang’s maid, Mrs. Zhang, urged her mistress to press her advantage, asserting that she should solidify her authority while she held power.

Mrs. Zhou, who managed the storeroom, was swayed by Qiao Lianfang's maid. When the imperial Sichuan brocades were distributed, Mrs. Zhou deliberately gave Shiyi's superior portion to Qiao Lianfang, sending an inferior fabric to Shiyi's court. Upon seeing the poor-quality brocade, Nanny Tao was incensed. Despite Shiyi's pleas to let it go, Nanny Tao insisted Shiyi's status was at stake and marched off to confront Mrs. Zhou. Their argument escalated into a physical fight, attracting Qiao Lianfang.

Wielding her authority, she ordered Nanny Tao to be flogged twenty times. Nanny Tao protested that Qiao Lianfang was enacting a personal vendetta and insulted her, declaring she was inferior to Shiyi and that her authority was temporary. Enraged, Qiao Lianfang ordered ten more lashes. Just then, Shiyi intervened, ordering them to stop. She countered that as the matron, any wrongdoing by Nanny Tao should be reported to her to be handled within the Western Lateral Court.

She pointed out that Qiao Lianfang had neither notified her nor Great Madam before administering punishment, an overstep of authority, especially since Nanny Tao was also Zhun's wet nurse, connecting her to Great Madam's court. Qiao Lianfang was left speechless by Shiyi's logical, rule-based rebuttal. Despite Qiao Lianfang's actions, Great Madam publicly protected her, claiming she had personally allocated the peony-patterned brocade to Qiao Lianfang and regretted the disturbance. She feigned surprise at the usually dutiful Nanny Tao’s behavior.

Shiyi accepted blame for not managing her servant well, and Great Madam declared the matter closed. However, Danyang interjected, sternly rebuking Mrs. Zhou for her disrespect and suggesting she be flogged. Swayed, Great Madam penalized Mrs. Zhou by docking two months' salary. Back in her room, Nanny Tao lamented Great Madam’s blatant favoritism, but Shiyi remained unconcerned. Nanny Tao pressed her, asking what would become of Zhun if Shiyi couldn't even contend with a concubine.

Shiyi calmly reassured her that she had a plan. Later, Qiao Lianfang, wearing a lavish new gown made from the Sichuan brocade, confidently brought nourishing soup to Xu Lingyi. He, however, coldly asked if she knew of the "five poisons"—desire, anger, ignorance, pride, and envy—warning that excessive desire leads to coveting what isn't one's own. He then forbade her from ever wearing the dress again. Humiliated, Qiao Lianfang returned to her room and hysterically cut the gown to shreds.

Mrs. Zhou consoled her, blaming Shiyi for taking her rightful place. Convinced that only becoming the legal wife would earn Xu Lingyi's respect, Qiao Lianfang vowed to achieve that position at any cost. That night, Xu Lingyi came to Shiyi's court, instructing her to display a matron's dignity. He informed her he would be away on a royal hunt and admonished her not to cause more trouble.

When he accused her of ordering her servant to fight, Shiyi demanded to know how he knew. He retorted that her servant's actions were her responsibility. Shiyi corrected him, stating that while the brocade swap was true, the order to fight was false, and criticized him for blaming her without investigation. Calling her sharp-tongued and unreasonable, Xu Lingyi angrily departed. Later, while bringing clothes for Xu Lingyi's trip, Shiyi visited Qiao Lianfang.

She used a metaphor, stating her preference for plum blossoms, which bloom in the cold, over peonies, which are associated with Qiao Lianfang. She noted that since they bloom in different seasons, they need not compete. If Qiao Lianfang cherished her peonies, she should just protect them; if the peony insisted on competing with the plum, it would find itself to be quite fragile. Qiao Lianfang, however, dismissed the warning, remaining focused on her ambition.

At the hunting grounds, Officer Ou provocatively condemned the late Official Hu Jin as a traitor, taunting Xu Lingyi about their past friendship. Duke Wei, Ren Kun, furious at the slander, interjected to defend Hu Jin's achievements. Officer Ou retorted by accusing Ren Kun of questioning the Emperor's decision to execute Hu Jin. Xu Lingyi warned Ren Kun to be cautious, as public criticism of the Emperor could be twisted by villains.

Ren Kun lamented that Hu Jin was foolish to believe one person could change the system. Xu Lingyi disagreed, stating Hu Jin was clear-sighted, and it was this clarity that allowed him to forge a bond of sworn brotherhood with Ren Kun. Xu Lingyi revealed that Hu Jin had confided in him that the sea ban was an outdated policy causing suffering and that only by lifting it could they truly save the people.

Ren Kun agreed but felt helpless, acknowledging that changing an ancestral policy was beyond their power. Meanwhile, Shiyi, having exhausted her investigation of embroidery, decided to look into fabrics. From Nanny Tao, she learned that leftover fabrics from a year ago were stored at the suburban villa. Coincidentally, Danyang returned from Ci'an Temple, where a monk had advised that she clashed with people born in the year of the ox.

Upon hearing this, and learning Shiyi was born in that year, Great Madam ordered all such individuals in the household to move to the suburban villa until Danyang's child was born. Danyang and her husband protested that this was inappropriate, but Great Madam was adamant, declaring that the family's offspring were the top priority and Shiyi's move was merely temporary.

Episode 11 Recap

Great Madam informed Shiyi of the temporary move to Xishan Villa. Shiyi readily agreed, diplomatically stating that with Princess Danyang’s impending delivery, it was a joyful time for the family, and she would consider the several months’ stay a peaceful retreat. Great Madam was pleased by Shiyi’s understanding. Mrs. Liu, the caretaker of Xishan Villa, arrived to escort Shiyi. As Shiyi departed, Nanny Tao rushed out, distressed that Shiyi had so easily agreed.

Nanny Tao worried that Shiyi was already struggling to maintain her standing and feared that after several months away, she would lose her place entirely. Unconcerned with her position, Shiyi simply reassured Nanny Tao and entrusted Zhun’s care to her. Upon arriving at Xishan Villa, Shiyi was attended by Mrs. Liu, who hinted at a desire for a tip. However, Amber revealed they had no money, explaining that Shiyi’s meager monthly allowance was almost gone.

Shiyi, not dwelling on finances, used the pretense of making a screen for Xu Lingyi to gain access to the storage room for fabric, bringing Dongqing and Amber with her. Though Dongqing was hesitant to trust Amber, Shiyi confided in Amber, revealing her true purpose and asking for her help, emphasizing that their actions must remain a secret among the three of them.

Meanwhile, a servant at the Xu mansion gossiped to Qiao Lianfang that Shiyi was rummaging through old fabrics, ridiculing her for trying to please Xu Lingyi with such outdated items. Qiao Lianfang, though feigning amusement, expressed her frustration at being overshadowed by Shiyi. Unbeknownst to Nanny Tao, Qiao Lianfang had been letting Zhun play with puppies, which caused him to develop a skin rash.

Great Madam, seeing Zhun’s condition, reprimanded Nanny Tao for her perceived oversight due to her age and instructed her to assist Qiao Lianfang, who would take over Zhun’s care. Qiao Lianfang then assumed full responsibility, dismissively telling Nanny Tao she was no longer needed. When Zhun refused his bitter medicine, Qiao Lianfang had her maid hold him down and forcibly administered it.

Heartbroken to see Zhun suffer and unable to care for him, Nanny Tao blamed Shiyi, believing that if Shiyi hadn't moved to the villa, Zhun would not be in such distress. In the villa’s storage room, Shiyi discovered a piece of fabric that closely resembled the evidence from her mother's case.

She took it to Master Jian at the Xianling Pavilion, who confirmed the material was the same type, giving Shiyi hope that she could trace the killer by investigating who had used it. Shiyi confided in her master that life in the Xu family, despite its superficial grandeur, was built on endless compromises and infighting—a life she did not want. Her only remaining concern was Zhun.

Master Jian reminded Shiyi of her responsibilities as the marquis's wife and urged her not to neglect her own life in pursuit of the truth, as it was not what her mother would have wanted. Leaving Xianling Pavilion, Shiyi noticed her guards and carriage were gone. She sent Amber to find them while she and Dongqing waited. An old woman then feigned a sprained ankle nearby.

As Shiyi and Dongqing helped her, the woman used a drug to render them unconscious, and they were taken away. When Amber returned to find them missing, she rushed back to Master Jian. Suspecting a trap, Master Jian instructed Amber to lie when the guards returned. Amber told them Shiyi had already left for the Luo Residence on urgent business, temporarily keeping the disappearance a secret from the Xu family.

Shiyi's kidnapping was orchestrated by Qiao Lianfang, who intended to ruin Shiyi’s reputation by ensuring she spent a night away from home. Amber reported the situation to Madam Luo. While lamenting Shiyi's predicament, Madam Luo agreed that finding her was the priority. The Luo family searched fruitlessly. Shiyi’s brother, Zhenxing, insisted that his sister's safety was paramount and was ready to report the matter to the authorities, vowing to support her even if Xu Lingyi divorced her.

Madam Luo, however, opposed this, fearing the irreversible damage to Shiyi's reputation. Master Jian intervened, suggesting they search for one more night before involving the authorities to protect her name. The next day, Xu Lingyi returned home and was angered to learn Shiyi had been moved to Xishan Villa over a superstition. After rebuking Lingkuan and Danyang, he resolved to bring Shiyi back.

Qiao Lianfang interjected, lying that Shiyi had found the villa uncomfortable and had gone to the Luo Residence. She offered to accompany Xu Lingyi to retrieve Shiyi, and he agreed. Qiao Lianfang then secretly instructed her maid to tell Mrs. Liu at the villa to have a report filed with the authorities about a kidnapping, a move designed to publicly tarnish Shiyi’s name. At the Luo Residence, Xu Lingyi and Qiao Lianfang requested to see Shiyi.

The Luos tried to stall, vaguely claiming Shiyi had gone out to buy fabric. Unfazed, Xu Lingyi declared he would wait. Growing impatient, he dispatched his deputy, Lin Bo, to search the local shops. Meanwhile, as a result of Qiao Lianfang’s scheme, officials arrived at the Luo Residence to investigate a reported kidnapping of two women in a nearby alley. Madam Luo adamantly denied anyone was missing.

Qiao Lianfang then revealed to Xu Lingyi that the villa guards, posted near the Luo Residence, had not seen Shiyi leave that morning. This directly contradicted Madam Luo’s story, exposing the lie and forcing the Luos to face the reality of Shiyi’s disappearance. Meanwhile, Shiyi and Dongqing awoke, bound by ropes, in a woodshed. Shiyi deduced they had been deliberately trapped. She reassured a frightened Dongqing that their captors likely meant no physical harm, or they would have acted already. However, Shiyi realized their predicament was part of a larger, more serious scheme, believing they had fallen into a trap the moment their guards disappeared.

Episode 12 Recap

As Xu Lingyi and Qiao Lianfang waited at the Luo Residence, Qiao Lianfang created tension by claiming her maids heard Shiyi had not left the residence that day. Just then, Shiyi returned, much to the relief of her mother, Madam Luo. In private, Shiyi revealed to her mother that she and her maid, Dongqing, had been kidnapped. Her brother, Zhenxing, and Master Jian had fortunately tracked them down using the distinct scent of rose perfume Shiyi wore.

Learning that Xu Lingyi's man, Lin Bo, was also searching for her, Shiyi strategically allowed him to find her on the street to make her return appear natural. Madam Luo advised Shiyi to keep the abduction secret to protect her reputation. She voiced strong suspicions that Qiao Lianfang was behind it, noting that government officials had arrived to report a kidnapping shortly after Xu Lingyi, solidifying her belief in Qiao Lianfang's scheme.

While traveling back to the Xu mansion with Xu Lingyi, Shiyi questioned if her return would cause trouble with Danyang due to their supposed zodiac conflict. Xu Lingyi dismissed the notion as groundless superstition, firmly stating that as his wife, Shiyi would not be subjected to unfair treatment and that he had come to retrieve her against Great Madam's wishes.

Seizing the opportunity, Shiyi subtly mentioned the suspicious disappearance of the guards at Xishan Villa, who claimed a flimsy excuse for their absence. The perceptive Xu Lingyi assured her he would investigate the guards thoroughly. To resolve the household tension, Xu Lingyi proposed that Danyang and the Fifth Master move to the quieter He'nan Court within the estate gardens, a solution Danyang accepted.

Later, Great Madam spoke with Shiyi, acknowledging that sending her to the villa was not entirely fair but was done for the sake of Danyang's pregnancy. She was pleased by Shiyi's grace and lack of complaint upon returning. Xu Lingyi later visited Qiao Lianfang, instructing her to send valuable blood nest and ginseng to Danyang in Shiyi's name to foster goodwill.

He then pressed her about the lax security at Xishan Villa, holding her accountable for placing the unreliable Mrs. Liu in charge and demanding the woman be severely punished for her dereliction of duty. Alone, Qiao Lianfang realized her plan had backfired, costing her an ally in Mrs. Liu and earning her a reprimand. She concluded that she had severely underestimated Shiyi.

News of Xu Lingyi’s decisive action reached Shiyi, who told her maids she had already hinted her suspicions to him and was awaiting the outcome. Her maids, impressed by his fair handling of the matter, began to see him in a new, more positive light. Qiao Lianfang then visited Shiyi to deliver the monthly allowance of twenty taels.

She subtly mocked Shiyi for not managing household affairs, but Shiyi calmly retorted that both Xu Lingyi and Great Madam were discerning individuals who could judge performance, implying Qiao Lianfang should focus on her own duties. After she left, Concubine Wen arrived and overheard Shiyi's maids rejoicing over the twenty taels, leading her to privately disdain Shiyi's "poor" background. Zhun's skin condition worsened, and he fell into a feverish coma.

Qiao Lianfang offered to take over his care, but when Zhun began crying from severe itching, Shiyi recalled an effective anti-itch ointment from her hometown. Qiao Lianfang and Great Madam objected, calling it an unknown "rural medicine." However, Xu Lingyi trusted Shiyi and helped her apply the ointment. It worked instantly, and Zhun fell asleep peacefully. Impressed, Xu Lingyi immediately put Shiyi in charge of Zhun's care. Under Shiyi's care, Zhun's health improved, though he remained withdrawn from his father.

When Concubine Wen's son, Yu, came to visit, his mother quickly pulled him away. Shiyi's maid, Amber, explained that due to the strict distinction between legitimate and illegitimate sons, Great Madam discouraged them from being close, especially with Zhun being ill. Later, Shiyi took Zhun to see Great Madam, but he began crying for a sugar rice cake. Shiyi refused, citing his weak digestion.

Seeing Great Madam and Xu Lingyi approach, Qiao Lianfang opportunistically gave Zhun the cake to undermine Shiyi. Great Madam chided Shiyi for being too strict, but Shiyi calmly explained that the heavy cake could upset Zhun's stomach. She then cleverly prompted Zhun to choose between eating the cake and playing outside without a stomachache. Zhun put the cake down and, at Shiyi's urging, offered it to his father, also thanking him for a favorite toy.

The interaction touched Xu Lingyi and mended the rift between them. While Great Madam still favored Qiao Lianfang, she privately acknowledged to Xu Lingyi that Shiyi was a kind and dutiful main wife. However, Zhun's condition inexplicably relapsed. An Imperial Physician confirmed he had been reinfected by an external pathogen. Soon after, Madam Luo arrived at the Xu mansion. Distraught, she confronted Shiyi, furiously accusing her of neglecting Zhun and breaking the promise she had made to her deceased sister. When Nanny Tao tried to defend Shiyi by blaming Qiao Lianfang, an enraged Madam Luo silenced her, deeming the interruption disrespectful, and ordered her to be punished on the spot.

Episode 13 Recap

Following Zhun’s relapse, Great Madam Luo arrives at the Xu residence and chastises Dongqing, Shiyi’s maid, for her outspokenness. Reminding her that her behavior is not permissible in the Xu family, she orders her servant, Nanny Tao, to slap Dongqing. Shiyi intervenes, accepting fault for not taking better care of Zhun. She assures her mother that she will now wholeheartedly protect him from any harm. Unimpressed, Great Madam Luo only stresses that the Luo family is Shiyi’s true foundation.

After her mother's departure, Shiyi instructs Amber to investigate Zhun’s living quarters, but no source of illness is found. Amber notes that Zhun was perfectly healthy before his sudden relapse. Soon after, Yu visits to inquire about Zhun, and Shiyi reassures him. That night, Shiyi and Xu Lingyi stay by Zhun’s side as he suffers through a restless night, crying intermittently. Shiyi diligently comforts him, singing a soothing song and remaining at his bedside.

When Xu Lingyi suggests calling for the physician, Shiyi explains that Imperial Physician Liu had already advised that such nighttime symptoms were to be expected. As she continues her tender care, she eventually dozes off from exhaustion. Xu Lingyi, seeing her fatigue, gently lets her rest against him. As morning light streams into the room, he thoughtfully shields her face. When Shiyi awakes, she finds Zhun's condition has unexpectedly worsened, as he is now sweating profusely.

They immediately summon Imperial Physician Liu, who confirms the severity of the situation and begins acupuncture treatment, asking them to wait outside. While waiting, Shiyi shows Xu Lingyi the beautiful calligraphy Zhun has been practicing, suggesting he praise the boy's efforts once he recovers. She acknowledges that Xu Lingyi’s sternness stems from Zhun's status as the first-born legitimate son, but gently reminds him that Zhun is also just a child who has lost his mother.

At that moment, Great Madam Xu arrives. After a brief exchange, she orders Shiyi to be confined to the Western Courtyard until Zhun recovers, and has Mrs. Du take Zhun back to her own Fushou Court. When a bewildered Xu Lingyi demands an explanation, Great Madam Xu reveals she has returned from Ci'an Temple, where a divination stick declared Shiyi a jinx to Zhun, necessitating their separation.

Xu Lingyi dismisses this as superstitious nonsense and protests the injustice of blaming Shiyi. Great Madam Xu retorts that as the family matriarch, Shiyi must make sacrifices for the good of the family, as ensuring the continuation of the family line is paramount. Despite Xu Lingyi’s strong objections, Shiyi agrees to the confinement to de-escalate the conflict. Confined to her courtyard, Shiyi receives a clandestine visit from Yu, who slips past the guards.

He reports the information she had asked him to gather: Zhun often snuck off to a secluded corner of the garden to play with a small dog, which was kept and fed by Xiuyuan, Concubine Qiao’s maid. Realizing the significance of this discovery, Shiyi sends Yu off with pastries after ensuring his discretion. Meanwhile, Wuniang and her husband, Qian Ming, face growing financial hardship. A scholar with no income, Qian Ming has been spending lavishly on entertaining influential friends.

He proposes that instead of just saving money, they should generate income by opening a dried fruit shop, and urges Wuniang to propose a business partnership with Shiyi, leveraging the Xu family's influence. Wuniang agrees, taking some bird’s nest from her dowry as a gift. At the Xu mansion, she is informed by a smug Concubine Qiao that she is now managing the household and that Shiyi is confined and cannot receive visitors.

Indignant, Wuniang challenges this breach of hospitality and demands to see Xu Lingyi, forcing Concubine Qiao to grant her entry. Shiyi is overjoyed to see Wuniang. She explains her suspicions about Zhun's recurring illness and how Yu's discovery of the dog is a crucial lead. Shiyi then asks Wuniang for a favor: to swap clothes so she can sneak out to investigate. Disguised, Shiyi goes to the garden and finds Xiuyuan feeding the dog.

As she questions the maid, Concubine Qiao appears and orders guards to seize Shiyi for violating her confinement. In a desperate move, Shiyi grabs the dog and its cage and flees, running directly into Xu Lingyi. She explains that the dog has tinea, which is the source of Zhun's illness. Dongqing accuses Concubine Qiao of harming Zhun to frame Shiyi.

Feigning innocence, Concubine Qiao tearfully claims she gave Zhun the dog for companionship, unaware it was ill, and that she only chased Shiyi out of fear the dog might bite her. Imperial Physician Liu confirms the dog could be the source but states the origin of the tinea on its fur is untraceable, making it impossible to prove malice. Despite Xu Lingyi’s pointed questions, Concubine Qiao maintains her innocence.

Great Madam Xu staunchly defends her, and Concubine Qiao dramatically offers to take her own life if Zhun doesn't recover. The physician admits that due to the prolonged illness, Zhun's recovery is uncertain. Shiyi sings to Zhun through the night. The boy finally awakens, safe and sound, and affectionately notes that his own mother used to sing him the same song.

As the family celebrates, a servant reports that Concubine Qiao has fainted in the Buddha Hall after days of fasting and praying for Zhun's recovery. Great Madam Xu praises her devotion and urges Xu Lingyi to visit her. Twisting the facts, she claims the physician said the illness was unrelated to Concubine Qiao and entrusts Zhun to Shiyi. Reluctantly, Xu Lingyi visits Concubine Qiao, where he questions the efficacy of prayer over medicine.

Stating that he will not pursue the matter now that Zhun has recovered, he sternly warns her not to disappoint Great Madam Xu’s trust and to conduct herself well. He then asks about the whereabouts of a certain Mrs. Liu. Concubine Qiao claims she dismissed the servant for being disrespectful and sent her back to her hometown in Shandong.

Alone with her maid, Concubine Qiao worries that Xu Lingyi suspects something, but her maid reassures her that Mrs. Liu was paid handsomely and has long since vanished from the capital, leaving no trace.

Episode 14 Recap

Zhun safely recovered from his illness, prompting Xu Lingyi to reflect on matters within the household. He noted that shortly after Mrs. Liu was dismissed, a sick dog appeared in the mansion. Believing Mrs. Liu to be a crucial witness to how the dog arrived, Xu Lingyi dispatched Lin Bo to find her. Lin Bo readily accepted, taking the opportunity to praise Shiyi's meticulous efforts in finding the source of Zhun's illness and suggesting that Xu Lingyi should thank her.

Lin Bo even lightheartedly remarked that being Xu Lingyi's son was the second most difficult job in the world, after being his Deputy General. Having long endured Qiao Lianfang's schemes, Shiyi realized the extent of her cunning could jeopardize both her and Zhun's safety. She resolved that she could no longer tolerate Qiao Lianfang's actions and would not allow her to care for Zhun anymore.

Xu Lingyi, agreeing with this sentiment, proposed to the Great Madam that Shiyi should formally take over Zhun's care, emphasizing that Shiyi had proven she could make Zhun listen. Although the Great Madam was biased towards Qiao Lianfang, she had to concede, especially after Qiao Lianfang strategically agreed, acknowledging that since Zhun was formally registered as Shiyi's son, it was natural for her to raise him.

Privately, however, Qiao Lianfang felt a sense of crisis, frustrated that Shiyi had so effortlessly achieved the trust and position she had long struggled for. As a token of gratitude, Xu Lingyi had Zhaoying deliver a precious brocade-feather fan to Shiyi, a piece he had made himself. Zhaoying hinted that such a valuable gift warranted a personal thank you, but Shiyi misunderstood and simply had Dongqing reward him with some silver.

When Zhaoying reported back, Xu Lingyi, who had expected Shiyi to come and thank him in person, was dismayed by her response. He playfully punished Lin Bo by ordering him to patrol the city, a subtle expression of his own frustration. Wuniang approached Shiyi about investing in a dried fruit shop. Understanding that Wuniang needed funds and also wanted to leverage the Xu family's reputation, Shiyi cautiously asked for a few days to consider.

Later, she consulted with her sister-in-law, Dazao, and they agreed that getting involved in a business with family could lead to disputes. Instead, they decided to each contribute fifty taels of silver, either as a loan or a gift, to help Wuniang. Meanwhile, Erniang once again suffered domestic abuse from a drunken Wang Yu.

Her mother-in-law offered little comfort, simply giving her some jewelry and stressing the importance of bearing a son for the Wang family, an expectation Erniang deeply resented. Shiyi was playing shuttlecock with Zhun in the courtyard to encourage him to exercise. Yu watched from a distance but ran away when Shiyi invited him to join. Xu Lingyi arrived and initially disapproved, considering shuttlecock a game for girls.

Shiyi respectfully disagreed, arguing that since Zhun was frail and disliked tedious exercises, it was an excellent way to strengthen his body. Xu Lingyi was impressed when he learned that she had personally made the beautiful and unique shuttlecock for Zhun. Seeing his son thriving under her care, he felt relieved. He then informed Shiyi he would be leaving the capital for official business and gently reminded her that she had been impolite by not thanking him for the fan.

With the city grappling with a severe flood and an influx of refugees, the Great Madam decided to establish soup kitchens. She entrusted Qiao Lianfang with overseeing the disaster relief, telling her it was a prime opportunity to win Xu Lingyi's favor. As Xu Lingyi's departure neared, Shiyi presented him with a pair of boots she had embroidered. He playfully critiqued the stitching but was clearly delighted, eagerly trying them on with her help.

He was so pleased with the gift that he refused to change out of them, choosing to wear his new footwear. The Xu family, which had long sourced its silk from the Wen family, recently switched to the Zhang family, who were close to the Qiaos. Young Madam Wen visited Concubine Wen, urging her to find a solution, as the Wen family's financial struggles directly impacted Concubine Wen's own income.

Desperate, Concubine Wen humbled herself and presented Qiao Lianfang with a valuable jade ruyi. Qiao Lianfang accepted the gift but then scornfully gifted Concubine Wen silk from the Zhang family's shop, implying the Wen family's products were inferior. Humiliated, Concubine Wen resolved to persevere for her son, Yu. Later, she found Yu studying the "Hengqu Sayings." While he explained its profound philosophical principles, she simplified its meaning to him: study hard to secure their future.

His words, however, sparked an idea for how to deal with Qiao Lianfang's pretentious nature. Meanwhile, Qiao Lianfang assured the Great Madam she would manage the soup kitchens meticulously to uphold the Xu family's reputation.

Episode 15 Recap

Seeking to get back into Qiao Lianfang's good graces, Concubine Wen went to buy a valuable painting, but her maid, Qiuhong, spotted Mrs. Zhang purchasing a large quantity of rice vinegar. The purchase, along with a later incident where a kitchen servant snatched a bowl of porridge back from Qiuhong, convinced Concubine Wen that the grain for the soup kitchen was tainted.

She knew that although washing rice with vinegar could mask the smell of mold, it could not remove the lethal toxins. Recalling the late Yuanniang’s kindness to her family, Concubine Wen decided to leak the information to Shiyi, trusting Yuanniang's sister to handle the crisis. She had Qiuhong recount the porridge incident to Nanny Tao, whose suspicions were immediately aroused. Nanny Tao investigated the granary and confirmed the rice was indeed moldy.

Nanny Tao immediately reported her findings to Shiyi, who remained calm and insisted on seeing the evidence for herself. Meanwhile, Qiao Lianfang discovered the truth: the scheme was orchestrated by her servant, Mrs. Zhang, who confessed to secretly swapping in moldy rice for two days to pay off her son's gambling debts.

Panicked because the scandal would inevitably trace back to her, Qiao Lianfang immediately sent a servant to her family's home to borrow fresh rice, hoping to replace the tainted supply before Shiyi arrived at the soup kitchen. Shiyi arrived at the soup kitchen and demanded to inspect the granary, but Qiao Lianfang appeared and tried to block her path. Qiao Lianfang's forceful resistance only confirmed Shiyi's suspicions.

Just as Shiyi prepared to force her way in, a servant reported that the rice borrowed from the Qiao family was lost in an accident en route. With her plan foiled, a panicked Qiao Lianfang could do nothing as Shiyi entered the granary and witnessed the moldy rice firsthand. Shiyi confronted Qiao Lianfang, who feigned ignorance.

Setting aside the argument to deal with the urgent crisis, Shiyi ordered Qiao Lianfang to gather all available rice from the mansion and its villa. She then halted the porridge distribution, declaring that cooking would only resume with fresh rice. With the soup kitchen temporarily closed, the disaster victims grew restless, but Shiyi stepped forward and successfully calmed them, assuring them that new porridge was being prepared.

Her investigation traced the moldy rice to Jiang's Rice Shop, which had ties to the Ou family, the Xu family's sworn enemy. Shiyi suspected the Ou family was behind the scheme and that their plot was far from over. Meanwhile, Amber scoured the capital for rice but found all grain shops depleted. Shiyi instructed her to keep trying and asked Qiao Lianfang to borrow more rice from her family.

Qiao Lianfang claimed her family had no more to spare, and Shiyi suspected the "accident" with the first delivery was no coincidence. The moldy rice incident was indeed orchestrated by the Ou family. Master Lixing of the Ou family learned that Shiyi had discovered the problem but was unconcerned, believing she could not possibly find enough replacement rice to fill an entire granary. Elsewhere, Xu Lingyi was busy with disaster relief efforts.

During a break, he looked at the boots Shiyi had embroidered for him. Though they were damp, the sight of them brought a smile to his face, a clear sign that he missed his wife. The Ou family sent agitators to the soup kitchen, who claimed the porridge had made them sick and demanded to inspect the rice. Shiyi tried to calm the crowd, but the instigators riled up the victims, who stormed the granary.

To their surprise, they discovered the rice was perfectly fine and realized they had wrongly accused the Xu family. Shiyi had anticipated such a move. She had sent Dongqing to exchange her personal land titles for grain. This was a significant personal sacrifice, as her deeds, part of her dowry, were valuable enough to be exchanged for twenty "dan" of rice. Shiyi's decisive handling of the crisis impressed Master Lixing, who admitted he had underestimated her.

However, knowing most of the rice in the capital had been bought up, he was confident she could not hold out for long. Shiyi shared this worry. Amber, having failed to buy any rice and being thrown out of shops, was found by Lin Shixian, who was returning to the capital.

Learning she needed rice for disaster relief, he escorted her to a grain shop, subtly revealed his influential status to the owner, and ensured the Xu family could purchase rice at the standard market price. As the new supply of rice ran out, the disaster victims at the soup kitchen grew anxious again. Shiyi appeared and promised to wait with them for the next delivery.

While most were persuaded, an agitator incited the crowd by claiming the Xu family was hoarding good rice to sell for profit. Overcome by hunger, the crowd disregarded Shiyi's warnings about the contaminated grain still in storage and stormed the granary to seize it. In the chaos, Shiyi was pushed to the ground, and the heavy plaque above the entrance loosened, threatening to fall directly on top of her.

Episode 16 Recap

A riot erupted at the soup kitchen, with agitated refugees demanding supplies. As the chaos escalated, Xu Lingyi arrived on horseback. He quickly took charge, declaring that providing relief was an imperial order and that attacking the soup kitchen was akin to rebellion. While he offered forgiveness for their current plight, he warned that any further offenses would be dealt with severely.

He ordered his subordinate, Linbo, to arrest the ringleaders and send them to the Shuntian Prefecture Office for investigation. After the situation was brought under control, Xu Lingyi addressed the crowd, acknowledging the immense losses caused by the flood but reminding them that dignity must not be lost. He vowed that as long as the Xu family existed, the disaster relief and its provisions would never cease. The grateful refugees expressed their relief and thanked him.

Observing Shiyi's leg, Dongqing noted its severe injury and ongoing bleeding, despite Shiyi's attempts to downplay it. Without a word, Xu Lingyi carried Shiyi back to the mansion. Shortly after, Amber arrived at the soup kitchen with fresh rice, ensuring the continuation of the relief efforts. Meanwhile, a subordinate reported to Ou Lixing that their mission had failed and their men were apprehended by the Shuntian Prefecture Office, but assured him that the captured individuals would not betray them.

Upon their return to the mansion, Shiyi, still in Xu Lingyi's arms, expressed concern that their intimate display might provoke gossip among the servants and damage his reputation. Xu Lingyi, however, dismissed her worries, asserting that as a married couple, there was nothing to fear. Meanwhile, Qiao Lianfang, observing the scene, fumed with jealousy, complaining to her maid Xiuyuan that Xu Lingyi didn't even speak to her. She refused to greet Shiyi, despite the household rules.

A physician soon arrived to examine Shiyi's leg, assuring Xu Lingyi that it was merely an external injury and would heal within half a month with the prescribed medicine. Xu Lingyi then prepared to apply the medicine himself. Although Shiyi initially tried to have Dongqing handle it, feeling shy under his gaze, he insisted, prompting Dongqing to later tease her about her uncharacteristic bashfulness.

Dongqing remarked that while Xu Lingyi appeared cold, he was remarkably considerate towards Shiyi, expressing her joy that someone in the Xu family was finally treating her mistress kindly. After leaving Shiyi, Xu Lingyi instructed a subordinate to arrange for rice to be exchanged for the farmlands in Shiyi's dowry, ensuring she would not have to deplete her own resources. Just then, the sound of opera revealed that Xu Lingkuan was still indulging in his pastime.

Annoyed, Xu Lingyi confronted his brother. Xu Lingkuan, visibly afraid, admitted his mistakes. Danyang, unaware of the gravity of the situation, defended her husband, criticizing Xu Lingyi for his constant sarcasm. Fearing further confrontation, Xu Lingkuan urged Danyang to return to her room. Xu Lingyi then sternly revealed the truth: the Ou family had secretly used moldy rice to incite the refugees, and the Xu family had nearly committed the crime of deceiving the Emperor.

He chastised Xu Lingkuan for his ignorance while Shiyi was injured dealing with the fallout. At that moment, Great Madam and Second Madam returned and were shocked to learn of the incident and the danger the family had faced. Qiao Lianfang knelt before Great Madam, pleading her innocence and claiming she was unaware of her nanny Mrs. Zhang's actions. Great Madam reminded Lianfang that her poor judgment in selecting staff had almost brought disaster upon the family.

Xu Lingyi declared that Mrs. Zhang should be flogged twenty times and banished, and all related servants sold off. Lianfang interceded, but Xu Lingyi retorted that a servant's mistake could have led to the entire family being wiped out, concluding that Lianfang's repeated misuse of staff rendered her unfit to manage household affairs. Great Madam, weary of the situation, exempted Mrs. Zhang from the flogging due to her age but insisted she be removed from the family.

She then ordered Lianfang to reflect in her room, relieving her of all household management duties. After Lianfang's departure, Xu Lingyi praised Shiyi's composure and wisdom, asserting her suitability to take over. Great Madam sought Second Madam Yizhen's opinion, who concurred, emphasizing that Shiyi had a broad perspective and that household management was rightfully the legal wife's responsibility. Following the discussion, Great Madam transferred the management of household affairs to Shiyi.

Before the handover, Lianfang had an emotional farewell with Mrs. Zhang, who warned her to be wary of the Luo family's illegitimate daughter, Shiyi, should she gain power, hinting at a past secret. Lianfang then presented Shiyi with twelve accounting books and twenty keys. Shiyi's maid openly expressed her satisfaction that everyone was now "back in their proper places," intentionally ensuring Lianfang overheard.

Mrs. Du arrived to reinforce Great Madam's instructions for Shiyi to prioritize the Xu family and adhere to house rules. Soon after, Shiyi prepared high-quality wound medicine and visited Concubine Qin, who had been injured while shielding her. Concubine Qin expressed gratitude and congratulated Shiyi. Their conversation was interrupted by Xu Lingyi's arrival.

He insisted Shiyi stay for dinner, which proved awkward, as Shiyi found the food too spicy with Sichuan pepper, a staple from Xu Lingyi's time in the cold Miaojiang region. Feigning a headache, Shiyi excused herself, and Xu Lingyi, concerned for her still-healing leg, insisted on escorting her back. On their way to the Western Courtyard, Shiyi inquired about the animosity between the Xu and Ou families.

Xu Lingyi revealed the Ou family's treachery: how Marquis Jingyuan framed his father and brother for their efforts to lift the sea ban, leading to their deaths and the imprisonment of the entire Xu family. Only his grandfather's plea to the Emperor had saved them, allowing Xu Lingyi to redeem their name on the battlefield. He stressed that as long as corrupt officials like the Ou family remained, his father and brother could not rest in peace.

Upon arriving at the Western Courtyard, Xu Lingyi indicated his intention to stay the night. Flustered, Shiyi tried to get him to leave, claiming he needed to greet Great Madam and that she had to review the accounting books. Xu Lingyi, however, settled in to drink tea. Observing from outside, Shiyi’s maids, Dongqing and Amber, were elated and resolved to ensure he remained. While there, Xu Lingyi noticed a minor hand injury Shiyi sustained from embroidering. Shiyi explained her passion for it, viewing it as a path to self-reliance after having experienced life without support.

Episode 17 Recap

As night fell, Dongqing asked Shiyi if they should prepare Xu Lingyi’s bath. When Shiyi hesitated, Xu Lingyi, taking it as a dismissal, rose to leave. Shiyi immediately offered to see him out, prompting Xu Lingyi to remark on her apparent happiness at his departure. Shiyi clarified that she was merely considering his busy schedule. Still displeased, Xu Lingyi returned to his study and angrily chastised Zhaoying for putting away his documents, insisting he had to finish them that night.

Zhaoying explained he had assumed Xu Lingyi would be staying at the Western Lateral Court. Meanwhile, upon learning that Xu Lingyi had not stayed with Shiyi, Concubine Wen gloated. She believed that despite managing the household, Shiyi had not won Xu Lingyi's favor and, being an illegitimate daughter once thrilled by 20 taels of silver, would be easy to manipulate. The following day, Shiyi began her duties as the new mistress of the household.

She meticulously examined the accounts, establishing her authority by dispensing rewards and punishments. She commended Mrs. Li for her clear records of the maids and servants, rewarding her with two taels of silver. However, she sternly confronted Mrs. Wang, the head of kitchen purchasing, for buying expensive ingredients at inflated prices. She then accused Mrs. Zhou, who managed the family's fabrics, of taking kickbacks.

Though the two women denied her accusations and argued their indispensability, Shiyi, drawing on her experience with poverty, declared that she was not a pampered lady ignorant of finances. Stating she would not punish them for past deceptions but would not tolerate it going forward, she announced their positions would be immediately filled by new managers she had already arranged. She dared them to take their complaints to the Great Madam, at which point they reluctantly conceded.

Shiyi's true intention in taking over household management was to find clues about her mother's death in the account books. She sought records of anyone who had received a specific type of embroidery fabric. She noted that after Concubine Qiao took charge, she had changed the main silk supplier, a move that would have significantly impacted the Wen family's business.

Shiyi then discovered that Princess Danyang, Concubine Wen, and Concubine Qiao had all received the same plain fabric before the Dragon Boat Festival the previous year. Realizing this fabric was best suited for inner garments or perfume satchels, which women often made for their loved ones during the festival, Shiyi planned to investigate the gifts they had given to Xu Lingyi and the Fifth Master to trace the culprit. Xu Lingyi remained in a foul mood.

Zhaoying struggled to serve him, even spilling ink while grinding it, prompting Xu Lingyi to dismiss him for being clumsy. When General Fu arrived, Zhaoying advised him not to disturb the Marquis, explaining that he had been angry since returning from the Western Lateral Court, implying a conflict with Shiyi. Later, while Dongqing waited for Amber to return from the kitchen, she encountered General Fu in the dark. Mistaking each other for intruders, they stumbled, leading to a playful quarrel.

Dongqing teased that he was afraid of her, which he denied, claiming his shouts were a martial arts breathing exercise. Before leaving, General Fu warned Dongqing not to speak of their encounter. Concubine Qiao visited Xu Lingyi with pastries and soup. Finding him reading disaster relief documents, she callously suggested that moving the refugees out of the city, even with potential casualties, was a small price to pay to protect his career from the Emperor's anger.

Displeased by her words, Xu Lingyi announced he was going to visit the Great Madam. Concubine Qiao seized the opportunity, claiming she had made a pair of knee pads for the Great Madam and accompanied him. At the Great Madam’s residence, she was effusively praised for being broad-minded, and the Great Madam instructed Xu Lingyi to favor her more to ensure the Xu family would produce more descendants.

Learning that Xu Lingyi and Concubine Qiao were with the Great Madam, Shiyi assumed they would dine there. Seeing an opportunity, she went to Xu Lingyi’s residence, using the excuse that she needed a sample of his clothing to make him a new garment. However, Xu Lingyi returned early to attend to urgent disaster reports and found Shiyi searching through his clothes. When she explained her purpose, he dismissed the idea of letting an embroiderer handle it.

Instead, he instructed her to measure him directly, commenting on her refined handwriting as she took notes. As Shiyi measured him, she inquired about the refugees. Xu Lingyi confessed his dilemma: he had a plan to recruit the men into the army or have them learn skills from military artisans, but he couldn't devise a suitable arrangement for the women.

Shiyi suggested recruiting the female refugees to embroidery workshops, explaining that Master Jian of Xianling Pavilion had a high demand for their products but a shortage of staff. This would provide the women with a valuable skill. Xu Lingyi lauded her idea as "good" and "feasible," praising her abilities and stating that if she were a man, she would "surely accomplish great things." Shiyi retorted, asking if a woman could not also achieve great things.

Later, Concubine Wen visited Shiyi with a gift from her sister-in-law, who wished to partner with Shiyi in a lucrative business venture selling medicine for flood prevention. Shiyi politely declined, insisting that any business between the Luo and Wen families should involve her elder brother. She then pointedly brought up the moldy rice incident, subtly acknowledging that she knew Concubine Wen had tipped her off, likely in retaliation after Concubine Qiao replaced the Wen family's silk supplier.

Shiyi then firmly stated that the Xu family's purchasing policy would prioritize quality and affordability, and anyone who created trouble would not be spared. When Xu Lingyi learned of this, he was surprised that Shiyi, unlike Yuanniang, was unmoved by the significant profit and instructed his staff to ensure the Wen family could not use the Xu family’s name in their business dealings. Concubine Wen lamented to her maid about Shiyi's shrewdness, realizing she was far more formidable than Yuanniang.

Learning that Shiyi had sold her dowry lands to help with disaster relief, Xu Lingyi arranged for them to be bought back. He also instructed Steward Bai to give Shiyi a substantial sum of money for her daily expenses, stating that as the matriarch, she needed ample funds for social interactions. She initially declined, but eventually accepted after Xu Lingyi's firm insistence.

He then revealed that he had not only redeemed her original land deeds but had also purchased surrounding farmlands, consolidating her scattered plots into a larger, more productive estate. Touched by his gesture, Shiyi felt he had gone to great lengths for her, but Xu Lingyi dismissed her concerns, saying there was no need for such formality between husband and wife. That evening, Xu Lingyi chose to dine at Shiyi's court.

Although he typically disliked sweet dishes, he tried the sweet and sour Yuhang cuisine prepared for her. Shiyi explained that its unique deliciousness came from the careful preparation of ordinary ingredients, philosophizing that true beauty often lies in simple things. Finding her insights profound, Xu Lingyi acknowledged the dish was delicious. After dismissing the maids, he inquired about the new clothes Shiyi was making for him. Flustered, Shiyi admitted they were still in progress.

The next day, when the same sweet and sour fish was served at Xu Lingyi's own court, he found the taste wasn't right and ordered it removed. Zhaoying surmised that his master's enjoyment of the dish had less to do with the food and more to do with his dining companion. Just then, Zhaoying rushed in with urgent news.

Episode 18 Recap

Shiyi visited Xianling Pavilion, where Master Jian informed her that with the influx of women from families displaced by the flood, the pavilion was short on instructors. Moved by their plight, Shiyi volunteered to stay and teach them embroidery, helping them secure a livelihood. Despite her elevated status, Shiyi, dressed as a maiden, regularly left the Xu mansion to instruct the women at Xianling Pavilion. During one such visit, Lin Shixian appeared.

It was through Master Jian that Shiyi learned Lin Shixian was not only an investor in Xianling Pavilion but also the generous benefactor who had helped purchase relief rice, donating substantial amounts of fabric and threads. Lin Shixian, still unaware of Shiyi's true identity, expressed his admiration for her kindness and skill. He inquired why she hadn't appeared at their planned meeting a year ago at Ci'an Temple.

Shiyi explained a sudden family emergency had prevented her from leaving the capital. Lin Shixian was relieved to see her safe, while Shiyi affirmed she was now settled in the capital with no plans to depart. Unbeknownst to Shiyi, Lin Shixian continued to harbor affection for her, even pondering gifts that might please her. Back at the Xu mansion, Xu Lingyi brought home a young boy named Fengqing, arranging for him to be cared for discreetly at Banyuepan.

Shiyi assigned her maids, Amber and Dongqing, to the task, cautioning them to keep his arrival a secret from the rest of the household. Despite these efforts, news of an illegitimate child quickly spread throughout the Xu family quarters. Concubine Qin, upon hearing the rumors, worried about the impact on her own son, Yu. Soon after, Shiyi's elder brother, Zhenxing, visited her, confirming that news of the child had already reached the capital's nobles.

Zhenxing advised Shiyi against adopting Fengqing, explaining it would grant the child the status of a legitimate son, potentially jeopardizing the future position of any children Shiyi might bear. He suggested that Concubine Qin would be a more suitable guardian, recalling that Yuanniang had once described Concubine Qin as amiable and easy-going. Shiyi thanked him for his consideration. That evening, Shiyi spoke with Xu Lingyi about Fengqing.

She astutely observed the child's frail appearance and concluded that he could not be Xu Lingyi’s son, but rather Xu Lingkuan’s child from an affair before his marriage to Danyang. Xu Lingyi confirmed her deduction, revealing that Fengqing's mother was a woman named Yuemei, an actor's sister. He explained the complexities of the situation and the necessity of keeping the truth from the pregnant Danyang to ensure her well-being. Xu Lingyi was deeply moved by Shiyi’s understanding and trust.

He then candidly addressed the past misunderstanding involving Qiao Lianfang at Jing'an Pavilion during the Spring Banquet, clarifying that he had never touched her. Xu Lingyi lamented his failure to properly guide Xu Lingkuan, whose fear of him led to a pattern of concealment. Shiyi gently encouraged Xu Lingyi to change his approach, assuring him that Xu Lingkuan would eventually feel his earnest efforts. The next day, Xu Lingyi, Xu Lingkuan, and Great Madam convened to discuss Fengqing’s future.

Xu Lingyi proposed registering Fengqing under his own name to protect Danyang and ensure the child's well-being. Great Madam agreed and offered her trusted nanny, Nanny Huang, to assist in the child’s care. Upon learning of Fengqing, Xu Lingkuan immediately wished to see his son. However, the matter of who would raise Fengqing was not yet settled. Concubine Qin tearfully pleaded with Shiyi, asking to adopt Fengqing.

She revealed her past miscarriage and the physician’s prognosis that she could never have children of her own, hoping that raising Fengqing would bring purpose to her lonely life. Shiyi acknowledged her feelings but stated that Xu Lingyi and Great Madam would make the final decision. Qiao Lianfang also sought to adopt Fengqing, believing it might encourage Xu Lingyi to visit her courtyard more frequently.

Great Madam advised Qiao Lianfang, who was still young, to focus her energy on winning Xu Lingyi's affections. Ultimately, Great Madam proposed a trial: both Concubine Qin and Qiao Lianfang would spend time with Fengqing, and the one he showed the most affinity for would adopt him. Xu Lingyi concurred with this plan. The competition for Fengqing’s affection began. Concubine Qin patiently played with Fengqing, introducing him to a Lu Ban Ball.

Qiao Lianfang, in her eagerness to impress, gave Fengqing a red-tasselled spear, which delighted the boy. However, in his playful exuberance, Fengqing nearly injured himself with the spear. Concubine Qin quickly intervened, shielding him from harm. Xu Lingyi arrived at that moment and, witnessing the dangerous situation, sternly rebuked Qiao Lianfang for providing such an inappropriate toy. A flustered Qiao Lianfang blamed a street peddler for recommending the item and, in her frustration, suspected Shiyi of deliberately setting her up.

Later that night, Xu Lingyi found Shiyi asleep beside Fengqing's bed. He gently lifted her into his arms and carried her back to their own bed. Shiyi, roused by the movement, pretended to still be asleep. Xu Lingyi, discerning her feigned slumber, merely smiled. Outside the room, Dongqing offered Lin Bo some snacks she had prepared for Shiyi. Lin Bo, captivated by Dongqing's beauty, was momentarily speechless.

Episode 19 Recap

The next morning, Shiyi opened her eyes to find Xu Lingyi close by. She gently pushed him away, which woke him. Seeing he had no intention of getting up, she quietly tried to leave the bed, but Xu Lingyi playfully teased her and asked her to help him dress. Shiyi then inquired about who would raise Fengqing. Xu Lingyi dismissed Concubine Qiao as too self-absorbed to care for a child.

As for Concubine Qin, while she genuinely cared for Fengqing, she was a former maid who lacked the education to teach him properly. Shiyi suggested Yizhen, the Second Mistress, noting her genuine fondness for Fengqing and her solitary life. Xu Lingyi explained that when his son Yu was born, Yizhen had just lost her own son, Qian. She refused to adopt Yu because she blamed herself for Qian's death. Later, Xu Lingyi's brother, Xu Lingkuan, was in trouble.

His father-in-law, Marquis Dingnan, had learned that Fengqing was Xu Lingkuan's son. Xu Lingyi, suspecting the Ou family had exposed the secret, ordered Xu Lingkuan to go to the Marquis's mansion to apologize and repent. Terrified of his father-in-law's temper, Xu Lingkuan refused. Angered by his cowardice, Xu Lingyi accused him of being unfit for the Xu family and ordered Zhaoying to confine him until he came to his senses.

Shiyi brought freshly brewed plum wine to Xu Lingyi and inquired about the conflict. After Xu Lingyi explained the situation and his disappointment in his brother's weakness, Shiyi defended Xu Lingkuan. She highlighted his kindness and filial piety, reminding Xu Lingyi of their close childhood bond. Xu Lingyi confessed their growing estrangement, admitting he no longer understood his brother. Shiyi suggested that Xu Lingyi's serious demeanor might intimidate Xu Lingkuan and advised him to try talking with his brother calmly.

Unaware of the truth, a worried Danyang brought Xu Lingkuan his favorite dishes. Later, Xu Lingkuan was summoned to meet his brother at Banyuepan. There, Xu Lingyi toasted him and reminisced about a childhood incident where Xu Lingkuan injured himself trying to catch a nightingale for him. He apologized for his harshness, admitting Shiyi had made him realize he had been too strict.

Since their father and elder brothers passed away, he had been under immense pressure to protect the family and had unfairly imposed his high standards on Xu Lingkuan. Moved, Xu Lingkuan accepted full responsibility for his actions and promised Xu Lingyi he would personally go to Marquis Dingnan to atone for his mistakes. At Xianling Pavilion, Shiyi was teaching embroidery when Lin Shixian arrived. He discreetly asked Amber about Shiyi's well-being before giving her a bottle of hand cream.

He then gave creams to all the embroidery girls but presented a special bottle to Shiyi, insisting she use it daily. Shiyi simply regarded him as a kind acquaintance she was indebted to for his past help. Meanwhile, Qiao Lianfang enacted a cruel plan. Approaching Danyang in the garden, she maliciously revealed that Fengqing was rumored to be Xu Lingkuan's illegitimate son, pointing out their striking resemblance.

Qiao knew that the steps in the Western Lateral Court had just been hastily repaired on Shiyi's orders and the mortar was not yet dry. She hoped the shock would cause the pregnant Danyang to rush there, fall on the unstable steps, and miscarry, which would place the blame on Shiyi. The plot nearly worked. A distraught Danyang ran to the court, and upon seeing Fengqing, chased after him and stumbled on the loose steps.

Shiyi, arriving just in time, saved Danyang by pulling Fengqing away, but fell and injured herself in the process. Xu Lingkuan went to Marquis Dingnan's Mansion, waiting in the rain to apologize. He confessed that he had lost touch with Fengqing's mother before his marriage to Danyang and had been unaware of the child's existence.

He explained he had feared telling the pregnant Danyang the truth, and that he and Xu Lingyi had planned to reveal everything after she had safely given birth. Seeing Xu Lingkuan's remorse and considering Danyang's pregnancy, the Marquis gave him another chance, warning him to never hurt his daughter. Danyang thanked Shiyi for saving her but was still troubled by the rumors. Shiyi clarified that since Xu Lingyi had publicly acknowledged Fengqing, that was the only truth that mattered.

She advised the pregnant Danyang to ignore gossip and focus on her husband and child. Shiyi then subtly hinted at the scheme by mentioning that the hurried repair of the steps was known only to herself, Xu Lingyi, and the concubines. Realizing Qiao Lianfang's treachery, Danyang confronted her, slapped her, and furiously warned her to stop her dirty tricks. Reflecting on the incident, Danyang recognized Shiyi's kindness and decided to foster a closer relationship with her.

When Xu Lingkuan returned, Danyang told him to thank Shiyi properly. She then brought up Fengqing, encouraging Xu Lingkuan to visit the boy as his uncle, showing she had forgiven him. Touched by her understanding, Xu Lingkuan assured her that she and their child were the most important people in his life. Later, Shiyi proposed to Yizhen that she raise Fengqing. Yizhen admitted her fondness for the boy but hesitated, still haunted by guilt over her son's death.

Shiyi gently explained that neither Concubine Qiao nor Concubine Qin were suitable guardians and that only Yizhen could provide Fengqing the stable, loving childhood he needed. Yizhen, moved, promised to consider it. When Yizhen remained undecided, Shiyi offered to raise Fengqing herself. Xu Lingyi agreed but stipulated that Fengqing could not be registered under Shiyi's name. Instead, he would be officially listed as the son of the late Concubine Tong, Yuanniang's former dowry maid.

The maid had seduced a drunk Xu Lingyi years ago and, despite being elevated to a concubine, was never favored and eventually died of depression. Shiyi and Xu Lingyi agreed to this arrangement.

Episode 20 Recap

When Great Madam inquired about Fengqing's future, Second Madam Yizhen arrived and volunteered to raise the child herself. Assuring the family of her sincerity, Yizhen promised to treat Fengqing as her own and named him Sijie. She later told Shiyi that Lingyi's words had convinced her to let go of past grievances for the child's happiness. Elsewhere, Qiao Lianfang goaded Concubine Qin about how Yizhen had effortlessly gained favor by adopting Fengqing, a role they had both coveted.

Concubine Qin felt betrayed, lamenting that she had been promised the child. Later, Xu Lingkuan came to thank Shiyi for her role in his reconciliation with Lingyi, securing a home for Fengqing, and supporting Danyang. Using embroidery as a pretext, Shiyi asked to see a sachet Danyang had made for Lingkuan. After praising the needlework, she subtly inquired about the homicide at Ci'an Temple a year prior.

Lingkuan admitted he hadn't seen anything unusual as he was with Danyang and his mother, but he offered to secretly question the servants who were present that day. Shiyi stressed the importance of keeping the investigation from Lingyi to avoid worrying him, and Lingkuan agreed. During Xu Sijie's ancestor worship ceremony, he was formally adopted by Xu Ling'an and accepted into Yizhen's care, calling her "Mother." Shortly after, Shiyi received news that her mother, Madam Luo, was gravely ill.

During the visit, Madam Luo praised Shiyi for handling Sijie's adoption, which neutralized any threat to Zhun's status. However, she then urged Shiyi to secure Lingyi's favor and consummate their marriage, even suggesting Shiyi use her maids to learn Lingyi's preferences. Back at the Xu mansion, Dongqing accused Amber of being the informant. Amber tearfully confessed she was acting under Madam Luo's orders, as Madam Luo held the only clue to finding her long-lost sister—a handkerchief.

Shiyi, understanding Amber's difficult position and knowing Amber had kept her personal investigation secret, offered to help. Amber declined, believing Shiyi could not assist her in this matter. One day, Lingyi found Shiyi engrossed in painting in her courtyard. He admired her work, praising its refined, antique style. Later, he presented her with a white jade hairpin, a replica of one she had lost, whose style he had carefully ascertained from Dongqing.

As he helped place it in her hair, their moment was interrupted by Zhun's crying. Zhun was upset because his wooden sword had broken. Shiyi encouraged Lingyi to make a new one, telling Zhun that men shouldn't cry so easily. She then suggested to Lingyi that Zhun, spoiled by maids, needed a strong male role model and that Lingyi's guidance would help him become a responsible man. Qiao Lianfang later brought Great Madam homemade soup.

Danyang, also present, subtly praised Shiyi's competence in managing the household and her care for Zhun, pointedly noting it was no wonder Lingyi frequented Shiyi's courtyard. Danyang then questioned Lianfang about her failure to conceive. The conversation was interrupted by Zhun, who excitedly brandished his new sword, proudly announcing that his "Mother" (Shiyi) had asked his "Father" (Lingyi) to make it, and that Lingyi "listens to her."

When Lingkuan began teaching Zhun an opera verse, Lingyi entered but, to everyone's surprise, did not object as he usually would. He explained that such stories teach a boy how to be a good man, a view Shiyi also supported. Danyang remarked on Lingyi's significant transformation since Shiyi's arrival. That evening, Lingyi did not visit Shiyi's courtyard. She enjoyed the quiet, insisting her maids, Amber and Dongqing, dine with her as family.

In his own chamber, Lingyi felt uneasy and confessed to his attendants that he felt he was "not like myself anymore." His attendant Lin Bo observed that these emotional shifts coincided with Shiyi's arrival. Lingyi, burdened by his duties as the head of the clan, insisted he "must be as firm as a stone." But Lin Bo countered that he was not a stone but a man with feelings, asking if he was afraid of these unfamiliar emotions.

Lingyi's suspicion was piqued when General Fu mentioned he hadn't seen Shiyi in a long time, contradicting her frequent claims of visiting her family. He followed her to Xianling Pavilion and saw her teaching a class of women. Initially disapproving of her public appearance, he was about to intervene when he overheard a staff member explain that Shiyi was teaching embroidery to female refugees, providing them with a skill to support themselves.

Touched by her compassion, Lingyi's irritation turned to admiration. He secretly ordered Lin Bo to post guards nearby to protect her, insisting Shiyi not be told of his actions. Later, Qiao Lianfang again complained to Great Madam about Shiyi's frequent absences. While feigning a defense of Shiyi, Lianfang highlighted how often she left the mansion. Great Madam expressed her displeasure, stating that Shiyi's priority should be her own household.

When Lingyi entered, he immediately defended his wife, asserting that filial piety is a primary virtue. He pointedly asked his mother how she could expect care in her own time of need if she faulted Shiyi for attending to her sick mother. Before the tense discussion could continue, Lin Bo interjected with news of a lead in the moldy rice investigation.

Episode 21 Recap

Lin Bo reported to Xu Lingyi that he had followed the clues from the rice shop and discovered widespread moldy rice within the military barracks. Although not as severe as the soup kitchen incident, some soldiers were already suffering from diarrhea. Xu Lingyi was enraged, recognizing that the Ou family's greed for minor profits had compromised military provisions, an act he considered a true offense to His Majesty.

Meanwhile, at the Jingyuan Marquis's mansion, Marquis Jingyuan furiously questioned Ou Lixing about the moldy rice. He expressed his anger at having to learn about the compromised military rice from a eunuch and rebuked Ou Lixing for his recklessness. The Marquis explained that to protect Ou Lixing from the Emperor's wrath, he had no choice but to sacrifice Wang Zichuan, an official they had planted in the Ministry of Revenue.

Marquis Jingyuan then instructed Ou Lixing to monitor his estranged half-brother Ou Yanxing's whereabouts, as he was reportedly heading north and expected to return to the capital soon. Dejected, Ou Lixing returned to his room, where his wife, Young Madam Ou, expressed concern. Upon learning that Xu Lingyi and Shiyi were involved in exposing the moldy rice, she resolved to meet the wife of Marquis Yongping.

Young Madam Ou was also frustrated by Marquis Jingyuan’s persistent favoritism towards Ou Yanxing, a mere illegitimate son who seemed indifferent to the family's affairs and engaged in "unpresentable businesses." Ou Lixing complained about being placed in the Ministry of Rites instead of the Ministry of War, a post unfitting for the eldest son of a duke's legal wife.

Young Madam Ou comforted him, suggesting his father might be using Ou Yanxing as a "sharpening stone" to hone Ou Lixing's abilities, and reassured him that the position of heir would not be given to an illegitimate son, as his father would have to consider her own father's standing. Xu Lingyi encountered Shiyi in the courtyard and informed her that the Ou family was behind the moldy rice affair.

He explained that this was not merely a political dispute but a matter of protecting the Xu family and assisting His Majesty in purifying the court, which concerned the entire nation. Given that capital refugees were still unsettled and some might exploit the chaos, Xu Lingyi, aware of Shiyi's frequent outings, suggested she take Wan Daxian, a skilled guard, for her safety. As they spoke, Qiao Lianfang approached, interrupting their conversation.

She reminded Xu Lingyi that it was her birthday and that Great Madam Xu had encouraged her to invite him. Recalling his mother’s advice to treat the women in his inner court kindly, Xu Lingyi reluctantly agreed to visit her room that night. Xu Lingyi's visit to Qiao Lianfang’s room troubled Nanny Tao, who reported to Madam Luo that Shiyi was not favored.

In response, Madam Luo gave Amber a sachet embroidered by Amber's long-lost sister, pressuring her to win Xu Lingyi's favor for the Luo family. When Amber hesitated, reluctant to betray Shiyi, Madam Luo stressed that Amber had no choice if she wished to reunite with her sister, reminding her that she was originally intended for the Marquis.

Torn, Amber later went to Xianling Pavilion, where Master Jian presented her with a pair of embroidered shoes that Shiyi had made for her, explaining that Shiyi often spoke of Amber's coming-of-age and her desire to prepare a dowry. Deeply moved, Amber found herself in tears. Just then, Lin Shixian arrived and, seeing her distress, inquired about her well-being.

Amber confided in him about her sister, who had sold herself into slavery to pay for Amber’s medical treatment, disappearing without a trace. Lin Shixian comforted her, giving her a string of prayer beads from Baiyun Temple, hoping it would bring her good fortune. Amber confessed she would be willing to betray her conscience to see her sister again, but Lin Shixian assured her that she would ultimately stay true to herself.

Driven by desperation, Amber chose to act against her true feelings. She went to Xu Lingyi's study, ostensibly to deliver chicken soup on Shiyi's behalf, but covertly attempting to gain his affection. Xu Lingyi, seeing through her intentions, became furious and ordered Zhaoying to escort Amber out to be dealt with by Shiyi. At that moment, Shiyi arrived and intervened.

She claimed she had asked Amber to deliver the soup as she had spilled some on her clothes, and then dismissed Amber. After clarifying the situation and defending Amber to Xu Lingyi, Shiyi returned to her courtyard. There, Amber confessed everything, revealing she was being threatened by Madam Luo and had intended to provoke Xu Lingyi into expelling her from the mansion. This way, she wouldn't betray Madam Luo's command nor harm Shiyi.

Understanding Amber's predicament, Shiyi allowed her to stay, assuring her that she regarded Amber and Dongqing as her own sisters. She also instructed Dongqing to discreetly inquire about Amber’s sister among the Luo family's old servants. Observing the incident, Dongqing remarked on Xu Lingyi's integrity, and Shiyi mused that if he treated her with sincerity, she would reciprocate with her whole heart. Three days later, the wife of Marquis Zhongshan hosted a banquet for female dignitaries.

Great Madam Xu instructed Shiyi to prepare to attend as the official main wife of the Xu family. Shiyi’s calm and composed reaction to this news greatly impressed Great Madam Xu. On the day of the banquet, Shiyi conducted herself with grace, reassuring her mother-in-law, who went to socialize with old friends after reminding Shiyi to be wary of Young Madam Ou.

Young Madam Ou approached Shiyi, and Erniang, now the wife of Wang Yu, Duke Mao’s heir, joined them, eager to curry favor with Young Madam Ou by discussing flowers. Young Madam Ou feigned ignorance and challenged Shiyi to identify a particular flower. Before Shiyi could answer, Erniang mocked Shiyi's presumed lack of knowledge. With a subtle smile, Shiyi deftly rebuked them, stating that no one is omniscient and knowledge of a flower does not determine one's worth.

When Erniang implied Shiyi's humble origins made her shallow, Shiyi retorted that those who fail to distinguish between family and outsiders are the true disgrace. Young Madam Ou pressed Shiyi to admit her ignorance, but Shiyi instead identified the rare, scarlet flower as a precious cymbidium.

She noted its presence even in merchant families, subtly implying that nobility was not defined by lineage, before asserting that while red cymbidiums are rare, "people with ulterior motives are not," and such noble flowers should not fall into "filthy hands." Great Madam Xu, who had been observing, approached and subtly criticized the Ou family's rudeness. At that moment, Shiyi keenly noticed the distinctive embroidery on Young Madam Ou's dress.

Episode 22 Recap

At a banquet, Qiao Lianfang subtly insulted Young Madam Ou while discussing rare red cymbidium, hinting that only certain people were qualified to appreciate nobility and implying the Ou family had recently faced many misfortunes. As the banquet commenced, Shiyi sat beside Erniang and noticed dark bruises on her sister's hand. Initially, Erniang was reluctant to explain, but when pressed, she confessed that Wang Yu had struck her.

Erniang then lashed out, accusing Shiyi of feigning concern and blaming her for her current predicament, claiming Shiyi had stolen her intended marriage. Shiyi clarified that she had planned to flee the marriage to the Xu family, which was why her mother was at Ci'an Temple on that fateful day. She explained that Erniang's scheme, which resulted in Shiyi being detained at home, had prevented her escape and consequently led to her mother's death.

Shiyi emphasized that she had never competed with Erniang, only wishing to live with dignity, and urged her sister to let go of the past and seize control of her own destiny. Later, Young Madam Ou showcased her unique cuff embroidery, boasting that the fabric was brought from the south. While offering some to Shiyi, she casually mentioned her boredom with the design and praised Master Jian of Xianling Pavilion, hinting at her preference for more refined craftsmanship.

Back at her own home, deeply affected by Shiyi’s words, Erniang attempted to reconcile with Wang Yu. She apologized for past deceptions and promised to serve him dutifully, hoping for a fresh start. However, Wang Yu cruelly demanded that she hand over Baizhi, a maid who was already engaged to be married the following month. Erniang refused, reminding him of previous punishment from his father for similar misconduct.

Enraged, Wang Yu dismissed her, questioning how she could expect a better life if she couldn't handle such a simple request. As her maid expressed fear, Erniang reassured her, resolving not to drag anyone else into her misery. Despairing, Erniang internally rejected Shiyi’s advice, believing that her fate was fixed and unchangeable. Meanwhile, Xu Lingyi returned to the Western Lateral Court, brought by Zhaoying, heavily intoxicated after drinking excessively with colleagues.

Zhaoying had decided to bring him there so Shiyi could look after him, much to the surprise of Shiyi’s maids, Dongqing and Amber. Xu Lingyi, still drunk, loudly demanded freshly brewed Longjing tea. Shiyi sent Dongqing to fetch it while trying to manage him. Despite his noisy antics, Shiyi found him surprisingly endearing in his drunken state. Concerned about Qiao Lianfang's feelings after Shiyi's public appearance at the banquet, Great Madam Xu went to visit her.

To her dismay, she overheard Qiao Lianfang disparaging Shiyi as a "low-status concubine's daughter" and lamenting that Shiyi had taken a privilege that should have been hers. Great Madam Xu sternly rebuked Qiao Lianfang, reminding her of the established hierarchy and that Shiyi was now the Marquis's wife. She expressed her disappointment, having always believed Qiao Lianfang to be sensible.

Though Qiao Lianfang quickly apologized, Great Madam Xu remained firm, emphasizing that her duty was to care for the Marquis, not harbor such thoughts. Reflecting later, Great Madam Xu realized that Qiao Lianfang was not as gentle as she had appeared and acknowledged her past misjudgment of Shiyi's true kindness and wisdom, concluding that one's inherent nature superseded their birth status.

Feeling Great Madam Xu's trust diminishing, Qiao Lianfang vowed not to passively accept her situation and resolved to find a way to replace Shiyi. While Xu Lingyi was asleep, he had a nightmare, shouting in distress. Shiyi, who was watching over him, immediately soothed him, observing a rare vulnerability in his usually stern demeanor. Later, when Xu Lingyi awoke, he found Shiyi had fallen asleep beside his bed. Moved, he gently picked her up and placed her on the bed.

He then tenderly kissed her before falling back asleep. The next morning, Shiyi woke up on the bed, surprised and without memory of how she got there. Xu Lingyi playfully teased her, asking if she planned to deny what had happened. When she worriedly asked if she had "offended" him, he assured her he was just joking.

Later, as they paid their respects to Great Madam Xu, she expressed her delight at seeing the couple getting along well and commended Shiyi's efficient management of household affairs. Shiyi modestly credited her duties as a daughter-in-law. Great Madam Xu also praised an exquisite embroidery handkerchief Shiyi had made for her and gladly accepted Shiyi’s offer to make her a new dress. Xu Lingyi concocted a plan to move into the Western Lateral Court.

He instructed Zhaoying to have a "broken" window in his Banyuepan residence repaired, declaring it would take at least ten days to fix. This provided him with the perfect excuse to move in with Shiyi, who saw through his thinly veiled trick but could do little to stop him. He offered to sleep in the warmth partition, insisting Shiyi take the bed, and admitted his previous negligence towards her, promising to ensure she would never be hurt again.

One night, unable to sleep, Shiyi was engrossed in "The Waterway Classic," expressing a desire to explore the world’s landscapes, an aspiration Xu Lingyi revealed he shared. Later that night, Xu Lingyi was again plagued by nightmares, and Shiyi, deeply concerned, remained by his side. The following day, Shiyi sought out Lin Bo to understand the root of the nightmares.

Lin Bo explained that Xu Lingyi remained haunted by a past tragedy: his father, the late Marquis, and his elder brother, the Heir Apparent, had perished on the battlefield due to a treacherous plot by the Ou family. Lin Bo also revealed that his own father died in the same battle, prompting him to become Xu Lingyi's vice-general.

He described how the Ou family’s relentless persecution almost destroyed the Xu family, forcing a young Xu Lingyi to join the army as a mere soldier. He fought selflessly to earn military honors, bring down the Ou family, and avenge his father and brother. Lin Bo emphasized that Xu Lingyi’s current cold demeanor was a hardened shell forged from immense suffering, a stark contrast to his once cheerful and carefree youth. Upon Xu Lingyi's return, Shiyi brought him some warming soup. Xu Lingyi, feigning a sore wrist from sword practice, asked Shiyi for assistance, but she quickly discerned his playful pretense.

Episode 23 Recap

At Xianling Pavilion, Master Jian praised the embroidery girls' skill and noted Shiyi's much healthier complexion, concluding that her life in the Xu Mansion had improved. Shiyi confirmed this, stating that the Grand Madam was now kinder to her and her relationship with Xu Lingyi had become much more harmonious. She believed that kindness would eventually be reciprocated.

Shiyi then shared a new discovery regarding her mother's case: she had seen a pattern on Young Madam Ou's cuff that was strikingly similar to the one on the fabric clue. Determined to follow this lead, Shiyi planned to infiltrate the Ou mansion. Knowing Master Jian had been invited there to discuss new embroidery patterns, Shiyi arranged to go with her. Just then, a servant from the Ou mansion arrived to fetch Master Jian.

Disguised as a maid, Shiyi accompanied Master Jian to the Marquis of Jingyuan's Mansion. Upon arrival, Shiyi feigned having left an embroidery sample in the carriage, using the excuse to slip away and search Ou Lixing's room. She had timed her search for a day when Marquis Jingyuan and Ou Lixing would be absent. As Shiyi searched, she was discovered by a man who urged her to leave quickly.

This man was Lin Shixian, who revealed his true identity as Ou Yanxing, the illegitimate son of Marquis Jingyuan. He explained that he used "Lin"—his mother's surname—as an alias while doing business to avoid relying on his family's power, and that he had left home after a dispute with his father over his mother's death. Ou Yanxing pressed Shiyi for an explanation.

Fearing his interference could expose Master Jian, Shiyi revealed the truth about her mother's murder and the embroidered fabric clue. Ou Yanxing felt a pang of guilt, admitting he had been at Ci'an Temple that day to meet her but had left early, and apologized, wondering if things might have been different. Shiyi reassured him it wasn't his fault. Ou Yanxing then clarified that the embroidery pattern, originating from Japan, was common among pirates and often appeared as war trophies.

He suggested the Xu family, having long fought against pirates, would have the most contact with such items. Wary of his family ties, Shiyi thanked him but requested he keep her intrusion secret. Afterward, Ou Yanxing ordered his subordinate to investigate if any other Ou family members were at Ci'an Temple on the day of the murder.

As he returned, he was met by his elder brother, Ou Lixing, who coldly remarked on his absence before sending him to their father. Ou Yanxing confronted his father, Marquis Jingyuan, who tried to downplay their estrangement. Ou Yanxing angrily recounted how his father had broken his promise to marry his mother, instead taking another as his legal wife for the sake of power, which led to his mother's death from depression.

The Marquis defended his actions as a necessity, but Ou Yanxing retorted that no one had forced him. The Marquis claimed a clear conscience, but his son argued that nothing could compensate for his mother's suffering. The Marquis insisted all his actions were for the Ou family and warned Ou Yanxing to remember his identity, subtly threatening him by mentioning his involvement with Fengping Grains' recent low-price rice sales.

Meanwhile, Erniang prepared to send her maid, Baizhi, away to protect her from Wang Yu. Heartbroken, she gave Baizhi her indenture and fifty taels of silver for her dowry, advising her to keep the money for herself as men were unreliable. Erniang planned to tell Wang Yu that Baizhi had fallen ill and gone to a farm to recuperate, confident he would eventually forget her. Baizhi tearfully thanked Erniang and departed.

Shiyi revisited Ci'an Temple to verify if anyone besides the Xu family had been present on the day of her mother's death. There, she met Qingming, the young monk from before, who had returned from his travels. He shared a crucial detail he had previously forgotten: before the tragedy, he had not only seen a woman but also faintly heard a man conversing with her.

Though he couldn't see the man or hear their words, their tone suggested they were very familiar. Just then, Xu Lingkuan arrived with information from a servant that Qiao Lianfang had left the main group for about half an hour that day, leading Shiyi to wonder if she was the woman the monk had seen. Noticing Shiyi's preoccupation, Xu Lingyi inquired about her troubles. She explained that her mother's death anniversary was approaching, stirring up painful memories.

She shared stories of her mother's resilience and strength. Moved, Xu Lingyi suggested commemorating her mother with Yuhang customs and granted Shiyi permission to hold a memorial service for Concubine Lv at home. During the preparations, Shiyi instructed Dongqing to loudly recount a ghost story within earshot of Qiao Lianfang. The tale, about two murderers who suffered horrifying symptoms after their victim's family held a similar service, visibly unnerved Qiao Lianfang.

Shiyi pointedly remarked that any summoned spirits would seek out those who had wronged them, causing a distressed Qiao Lianfang to excuse herself. Soon after, Qiao Lianfang began experiencing hair loss and an uncontrollable itch, fearing the curse was real. Panicked, she rushed to Ci'an Temple, where she drew a highly ominous fortune.

The fortune teller, following Shiyi's prior instructions, attributed her suffering to past misdeeds and advised her to repent by reciting scriptures over the deceased's belongings for forty-nine days. To Shiyi's surprise, Qiao Lianfang did not retrieve anything belonging to Concubine Lv. Instead, she had her maid fetch jewelry that belonged to the late First Madam, Yuanniang. This led Shiyi to a shocking realization: while Qiao Lianfang was likely innocent of her mother's death, she was almost certainly involved in Yuanniang's.

Recalling Yuanniang's dying words about her suspicious illness, Shiyi resolved to find proof. Shiyi summoned Nanny Tao to inquire about Yuanniang's illness. Nanny Tao recounted that Yuanniang, who had trouble conceiving, had taken medicine from He's Clinic which helped her have Zhun. However, a later miscarriage ruined her health, leading to her death. While Yuanniang had suspected foul play in the miscarriage, no proof was ever found.

Nanny Tao insisted the medicine was effective and not poisoned, as she had tasted it herself, blaming fate and Qiao Lianfang's scheming. Shiyi then warned a frightened Nanny Tao to cease any secret communications with the Luo family. Later that night, Xu Lingyi found Concubine Lv's spirit tablet in their room. Far from being displeased, he told Shiyi it could remain in the Xu mansion permanently.

As Shiyi was moved by his gesture, Zhun ran in, crying from a nightmare that his parents had abandoned him. Xu Lingyi gently comforted the boy, assuring him it was only a dream, and invited him to sleep with them. With Zhun sleeping between them, Xu Lingyi lay down beside Shiyi and embraced her as she fell asleep.

Episode 24 Recap

One morning, Shiyi and Xu Lingyi paid their respects to the Great Madam. Zhun playfully told his grandmother that his father was so timid he still needed his mother to hold him while sleeping. This caused light laughter among everyone present, except for Qiao Lianfang, who harbored resentment. The Great Madam, amused by Zhun's words, implied that Xu Lingyi and Shiyi were trying to conceive a younger sibling for Zhun and urged him not to disturb them.

Meanwhile, at the Ou family mansion, Ou Lixing discussed the sea ban policy with his wife, Young Madam Ou. He noted that Duke Wei Ren Kun seemed to be aligning himself with Xu Lingyi, a concerning development. To counter this, Young Madam Ou proposed a scheme. She suggested using Duke Wei's beautiful adopted daughter, Liansong, an entertainer at Tianxiang House, to entrap Xu Lingyi's lecherous brother-in-law, Wang Yu, the heir of Duke Mao.

She believed that bringing the two of them together would inevitably create a scandal. At Treasures Boutique, Young Madam Wang, Xu Lingyi's second sister-in-law, attempted to exchange a jade bracelet she claimed had broken on its own. The shopkeeper accused her of trying to defraud the establishment. Just then, Young Madam Ou arrived, revealed that the shop belonged to her family, and apologized to Young Madam Wang.

To compensate, Young Madam Ou gifted her an exquisite green jade bracelet and proposed they become sworn sisters, an offer Young Madam Wang happily accepted. Elsewhere, Wang Yu encountered Liansong at Tianxiang House. Overcome with lust, he tried to force himself upon her, but she fiercely resisted, asserting that she only sold her art, not her body.

Later, a drunk Wang Yu returned home and angrily confronted his wife about their maid, Baizhi, whom he believed she had married off while he was away. In a drunken rage, he grabbed the new jade bracelet from his wife's wrist, smashed it, and proceeded to beat her. Back at the Xu mansion, the Great Madam served a special tea gifted by Qiao Lianfang. Shiyi, feeling nauseous, excused herself.

The others assumed she was pregnant and called for a physician, who stated it was too early to confirm but advised her to rest. Later, Shiyi confided in her maid Dongqing that her illness was a ruse. She suspected Qiao Lianfang had tampered with Yuanniang's medication, which led to her miscarriage. Shiyi believed that just as Qiao Lianfang could not tolerate Yuanniang having a child, she would not tolerate Shiyi's pregnancy either, creating an opportunity to expose her.

The news of Shiyi's supposed pregnancy quickly spread. Xu Lingyi visited Shiyi, knowing they slept in separate beds and that she could not truly be pregnant. He gently confronted her, stating that if she genuinely desired a child, he could help her wish come true. Shiyi, however, declined his offer, choosing to keep her investigation into Yuanniang's death a secret from him for the time being, planning to confess everything after gathering enough evidence against Qiao Lianfang.

Later, the other concubines came to congratulate Shiyi. She intentionally brought up the effective medicine from He's Clinic, saying she planned to get some for her pregnancy, which piqued Qiao Lianfang's interest. A flashback revealed Qiao Lianfang had caused Yuanniang's miscarriage because she couldn't bear to see Yuanniang have more of Xu Lingyi's children. As Shiyi anticipated, Qiao Lianfang began colluding with Mingjing from He's Clinic to tamper with Shiyi's "medicine."

Shiyi dispatched her people to secretly monitor them, hoping to catch them and obtain both human testimony and material evidence. Concubine Qin then invited Shiyi to her courtyard to choose some flowers. Dongqing went on Shiyi's behalf and selected two pots of night-blooming cereus. Shortly after, Concubine Qin invited Qiao Lianfang over and deliberately mentioned that Dongqing had taken the night-blooming cereus, implying they were harmful to a pregnant woman, a ploy to incite Qiao Lianfang to act against Shiyi.

This remark, however, made Qiao Lianfang suspicious. She investigated and discovered she was being followed, realizing that Shiyi's pregnancy and interest in He's Clinic were all part of a trap to expose her role in Yuanniang's death. Realizing Shiyi was trying to outmaneuver her, Qiao Lianfang decided to strike first. Qiao Lianfang sought help from her mother, Madam Qiao, explaining that Shiyi's pregnancy was fake and part of a larger scheme.

Qiao Lianfang asked her mother to investigate Shiyi's activities outside the mansion and devise a plan to ruin her credibility before exposing the fake pregnancy. Madam Qiao agreed and arranged for people disguised as disaster victims to infiltrate Xianling Pavilion, spreading rumors that the workshop, and by extension Shiyi, was exploiting the labor of the needy. Meanwhile, Xu Lingkuan, Xu Lingyi's younger brother, was watching a performance by the Four Bliss Troupe.

He overheard the troupe leader mention that Ou Lixing and Wang Yu had become unusually close, even hiring the troupe for a private show. Finding this alliance between rival families suspicious, Xu Lingkuan immediately reported his findings to Xu Lingyi, warning him that the Ou family likely had ill intentions.

Episode 25 Recap

Following up on Xu Lingkuan's observation, Xu Lingyi discussed with Shiyi the close association between Wang Yu and Ou Lixing, noting Wang Yu's addiction to pleasure as a potential avenue for investigation. Shiyi took the opportunity to highlight Xu Lingkuan's growing maturity and concern for the family's interests, suggesting that Xu Lingyi should be more understanding of his brother's only hobby, opera, rather than forbidding it. Encouraged by Shiyi's words, Xu Lingyi gave Xu Lingkuan a rare opera script.

Overjoyed, Xu Lingkuan accidentally knocked over one of Xu Lingyi's arrows. Shiyi observed the unique arrow, which Xu Lingyi explained was a three-edged arrow with a barb and fuller, exclusive to the Xu family. Afterwards, Shiyi invited Xu Lingyi to join her for lunch with Great Madam. Meanwhile, Great Madam sent two nannies to care for Shiyi, urging her to limit outings due to her supposed pregnancy.

After confirming her anti-miscarriage medication was harmless, Shiyi, growing suspicious about the plot against her, sent Dongqing to investigate the whereabouts of a key witness, Mingjing. Before any news arrived, Dongqing returned to report that a new embroiderer at Xianling Pavilion was stirring discontent among other workers regarding their pay and seemed to be connected to the Qiao family. Shiyi suspected Qiao Lianfang had learned about her fake pregnancy and decided to go to Xianling Pavilion to protect Master Jian.

To leave the mansion, Shiyi seized an opportunity when Concubine Qin planned to buy flower seeds, asking Great Madam if she could accompany her. Great Madam permitted it. Seeing Shiyi leave, Qiao Lianfang persuaded Great Madam to go out for a meal at Chunxi Restaurant, intending to observe Shiyi's actions. At Xianling Pavilion, Shiyi stepped out of Concubine Qin's carriage and entered the establishment. Qiao Lianfang, having spotted the carriage, brought Great Madam into the pavilion to witness a scene.

Inside, a woman was inciting the embroiderers, claiming Xianling Pavilion defrauded them by paying only 200 copper coins per piece when they could be sold for two taels of silver. Shiyi confronted the woman, exposing her lies about being a disaster victim by pointing out her delicate hands and the actual situation in the disaster area. Despite being exposed, the woman continued to agitate the crowd.

Shiyi offered to take the matter to the authorities, but the woman dismissed this, revealing Shiyi's identity as the Marquis Yongping's wife and claiming she would abuse her power. Amidst the chaos, the woman pushed Shiyi, an incident witnessed by Great Madam and Qiao Lianfang as they arrived. Shiyi was brought back to the Xu mansion, where Great Madam sternly reprimanded her. The physician confirmed that Shiyi was not pregnant and her menstruation had begun three days prior.

Furious at the deception, Great Madam demanded an explanation. Though Shiyi tried to de-escalate, Qiao Lianfang’s constant instigation prompted Dongqing to reveal the truth: Shiyi faked her pregnancy to expose Qiao Lianfang's role in Yuanniang's death. Great Madam dismissed this as outrageous slander, especially after Qiao Lianfang theatrically threatened suicide to prove her innocence. Great Madam declared her belief in Qiao Lianfang's innocence and accused Shiyi of disrespect, jealousy, and inciting her maids to defame others.

Shiyi admitted to deceiving Great Madam about her pregnancy but maintained that her actions at Xianling Pavilion and her accusation against Qiao Lianfang were not wrong. Infuriated by her defiance and learning Xu Lingyi was out of the capital, Great Madam took matters into her own hands. Citing Shiyi had committed the "seven faults" that warrant expulsion, she ordered Shiyi to be sent back to the Luo family that night, to be formally repudiated upon Xu Lingyi's return.

As a heavy rain poured down, Amber and Dongqing accompanied Shiyi as she left the Xu mansion. Qiao Lianfang watched with satisfaction. Shiyi confirmed to her maids that the witness Mingjing had indeed disappeared, but then explained that being driven out was part of her strategy, as she couldn't investigate freely while confined in the mansion. Meanwhile, Xu Lingyi rushed to intercept Wang Yu, who was attempting to kidnap Liansong, the adopted daughter of Duke Wei.

Xu Lingyi arrived just as Duke Wei was about to kill Wang Yu. He intervened, explaining that Ou Lixing had incited Wang Yu to create animosity between Duke Wei and the Xu family over the sea ban policy. Xu Lingyi sternly warned Wang Yu to stay away from Ou Lixing and to treat his wife, Erniang, with respect.

Xu Lingyi rushed back to the Xu mansion, only to be informed that Great Madam had sent Shiyi back to the Luo family. He immediately went to see Shiyi, who confronted him with disappointment, accusing him of not trusting her. She insisted that Yuanniang's death was connected to Qiao Lianfang and that she had to act alone because neither he nor Great Madam would have believed her without concrete evidence.

Xu Lingyi questioned why she had created such a mess instead of discussing her suspicions with him. After their heated exchange, Xu Lingyi returned to the Xu mansion, where Great Madam awaited him. She reiterated Shiyi's "seven faults" and demanded he prepare a divorce agreement. Xu Lingyi tried to plead for Shiyi, acknowledging his own oversight. At that moment, Concubine Qiao arrived, kneeling and feigning regret for the discord.

Great Madam praised her conduct and urged Xu Lingyi to rely on her to manage the household and proceed with the divorce. Xu Lingyi, however, requested more time to consider the matter and departed, with Great Madam advising him to reflect on the family's traditions in the ancestral hall.

Episode 26 Recap

Following their staged argument, Qiao Lianfang was pleased to hear of the rift between Shiyi and Xu Lingyi but worried he might soften. With Mingjing, the key witness to Yuanniang's death, safely out of the city, she believed Shiyi's downfall was certain. To hasten the process, she had Madam Qiao spread rumors that Shiyi was using the Marquis's name to oppress refugees at Xianling Pavilion.

The scandal damaged the Xu family's reputation and alarmed Great Madam, who, despite her doubts about the accusations, felt immense pressure to act. Pressured by his mother, Xu Lingyi reluctantly wrote a divorce agreement and had Luo Zhenxing deliver it, severing ties between the families and infuriating his brother-in-law. Overjoyed, Qiao Lianfang encountered Zhun at Banyuepan and cruelly told him that his mother, Shiyi, was a "bad woman" who would never return.

A distressed Zhun pushed her, insisting Shiyi would come back and calling Qiao Lianfang the bad one. Witnessing this, Xu Lingyi scolded Zhun and grounded him for three days. Despite Zhun's tearful pleas to bring his mother back, Xu Lingyi remained firm and ordered his attendant to clear Shiyi's belongings from her room. Seizing the opportunity, Madam Qiao urged Great Madam to appoint a new legal wife, suggesting the noble-born Lianfang.

Great Madam acknowledged that making a concubine the main wife was against tradition but agreed they could seek an imperial favor to legitimize Lianfang once she became pregnant. Qiao Lianfang was delighted, confident she would soon conceive, especially as Xu Lingyi had been treating her more warmly. Meanwhile, Concubine Wen and Concubine Qin discussed the recent events.

Concubine Wen believed that Shiyi, a mere concubine’s daughter, was no match for Qiao Lianfang’s schemes, recounting how Qiao had relentlessly framed Shiyi over the fake pregnancy and used dramatic displays to turn Great Madam against her. Overhearing this, Qiao Lianfang slapped Concubine Wen, threatening to expel her for spreading such talk. She then turned to Concubine Qin and cryptically thanked her for her current success, leaving both concubines to feign confusion.

Qiao Lianfang soon learned that Mingjing had gone missing after a Luo family carriage was seen secretly leaving the capital. When she also heard that Shiyi had been sent to a remote country villa, she suspected that Shiyi was hiding Mingjing there to prevent him from testifying. Determined to eliminate the witness, Qiao Lianfang traveled to the villa with her maids.

Upon arrival, she saw a figure tied to a pillar, assumed it was Mingjing, and ordered her men to kill him. At that moment, Shiyi appeared and confronted her about murdering Yuanniang. Cornered, Qiao Lianfang confessed that she had instructed Mingjing to poison Yuanniang’s medicine. Just then, Xu Lingyi emerged, revealing the entire scenario was a trap.

The man on the pillar was not Mingjing but a disguised Lin Bo, and with Qiao Lianfang's confession, all her crimes were laid bare. Shiyi explained that the only way to expose Qiao Lianfang was to make her confess by disrupting her own plans. This required Xu Lingyi's cooperation in staging their public argument and issuing a fake divorce agreement. Qiao Lianfang, realizing she'd been deceived, questioned why Xu Lingyi had trusted Shiyi.

He replied that he knew her character well and, as her husband, would believe in her even if the world turned against him. Unrepentant, Qiao Lianfang accused Shiyi of ruining the Xu family’s reputation with the Xianling Pavilion incident. In response, Xu Lingyi brought forward the spy Madam Qiao had planted, who confessed to being paid to incite the refugees.

Then, Mrs. Zhang was brought in and admitted Qiao Lianfang had paid her to lure away Yuanniang's guards and had also provided the sick dog that infected Zhun. With all her accomplices' confessions, Qiao Lianfang finally admitted to everything. Deeply disappointed, Great Madam withdrew her protection. Xu Lingyi declared Qiao Lianfang’s crimes unforgivable and, following family rules, ordered her to be flogged thirty times and banished to a farm to live as a nun, never to return to the capital.

Upon her return to the Xu mansion, Shiyi found her room thoughtfully arranged by Xu Lingyi. She thanked him for his quiet support of her work at Xianling Pavilion, a venture he now respected after seeing her genuine desire to help others. He encouraged her to continue and offered to cover any financial losses. When she asked why he was so kind, he replied simply that her happiness brought him happiness.

Before her banishment, Qiao Lianfang insisted on a final meeting with Xu Lingyi. She tearfully recounted her decade-long love for him and questioned why he could never accept her. Xu Lingyi remained unmoved. Qiao Lianfang admitted to murdering Yuanniang but tried to blame Yuanniang’s own scheming and claimed Shiyi was unworthy. Xu Lingyi calmly corrected her, explaining that true love is built on mutual respect and trust, not force.

He pointed out that her noble birth meant nothing with a wicked heart, while Shiyi’s kindness and integrity had earned everyone's respect, proving that character, not lineage, defines a person's worth. The next day, Shiyi formally apologized to Great Madam for the deception. Great Madam, now aware of the full truth, expressed regret for her own misjudgment and for the suffering Shiyi had endured. She gifted Shiyi a valuable ruby head-ornament from her own dowry as a gesture of reconciliation.

Although she initially advised Shiyi to focus on household duties, Xu Lingyi noted that Shiyi’s charity work had earned praise among palace nobles and stopping now would seem disingenuous. Great Madam relented, allowing Shiyi to continue on the condition that she never abuse the family's name or power. Xu Lingyi and Shiyi visited the Luo family with gifts to apologize.

Xu Lingyi confessed to Master Luo, Shiyi's father, that Yuanniang had been murdered by Qiao Lianfang, admitting his failure to protect her. Master Luo was stunned. Concubine Yang overheard and rushed to tell Madam Luo, whose already fragile health worsened dramatically from the shock, causing her to suffer a stroke. Meanwhile, after failing to find help, Madam Qiao visited Qiao Lianfang at the desolate farm.

Heartbroken, she tried to persuade her daughter to come home, but Qiao Lianfang refused, claiming she was finally at peace, her ambitions resolved. She accepted her fate, resigning herself to a life of solitude and spiritual devotion. Madam Qiao tearfully lamented that in teaching her daughter to be relentless, she had failed to teach her when to let go, ultimately causing her ruin.

Episode 27 Recap

Following her reinstatement at the Xu mansion, Shiyi visited Xianling Pavilion. She expressed her worry for Master Jian and offered to cover the losses from the recent turmoil. Master Jian refused compensation, revealing she had long recognized Shiyi's profound passion for embroidery. Instead, she proposed that Shiyi invest the money and become her partner in managing the pavilion. This would allow Shiyi to build a career and collaborate with like-minded artisans.

Delighted by the opportunity to be self-reliant, Shiyi accepted the offer, and with Master Jian's reassurance of support, the two sealed their partnership. Meanwhile, Lin Shixian, who had tasked his servant Antai with investigating the death of Shiyi's mother, received shocking news. Antai reported that the "Lady Luo" they knew was now Madam Xu, the wife of Marquis Yongping, Xu Lingyi, having been married for months. Devastated, Lin Shixian rushed to Xianling Pavilion, where Master Jian confirmed Shiyi's identity.

She apologized for the secrecy, explaining it was to protect Shiyi in her new, prominent role. Dejected, Lin Shixian acknowledged the vast distance her new status had created between them. On the Qixi Festival, Xu Lingyi took Shiyi on an outing. He was drawn to a pitch-pot game whose prize was a pair of "Heart-to-Heart Lanterns," said to grant eternal union to lovers. Though Shiyi was hesitant, Xu Lingyi insisted they play.

Blindfolded, Shiyi put her trust in his guidance, and together they won the lanterns. Later, by the river, Xu Lingyi passionately recited a vow of eternal love, "Alive or dead, I will be with you. Holding your hand, and growing old with you," sealing it with a kiss. Elsewhere, a crestfallen Lin Shixian reflected on his lost chance with Shiyi.

Amber found him by the river and offered words of comfort, assuring him he would one day find his true love. After she left, Lin Shixian took out an intricate bracelet he had acquired for Shiyi and cast it into the river, severing his hopes. The next morning, a hungover Lin Shixian instructed Antai to finish investigating the death of Shiyi’s mother, vowing to leave the capital and cut all ties once the truth was found.

Antai revealed he already had a significant lead. Lin Shixian then arranged a meeting with Shiyi. She apologized for concealing her identity, and he accepted, understanding the constraints of her position. He then introduced the coroner who had examined her mother’s body. The coroner revealed that while a knife wound was present, the fatal injury was an arrow wound to the heart, which the knife wound was used to conceal.

He also disclosed that high-ranking officials had intervened, preventing him from documenting his true findings and altering the official report. Driven by this new information, Shiyi revisited Ci'an Temple with Dongqing. There, they met a hunter who had witnessed the incident two years prior. He recounted that a woman, held hostage by a fugitive, was shot and killed by the leading official before the fugitive fled.

Shaken, Shiyi asked to see the hunter's arrow and instantly recognized it as a three-edged arrow, a design unique to the Xu family. The hunter claimed he had merely found it. Deeply disturbed, Shiyi instructed Wan Daxian to investigate the hunter's background. Returning to the mansion, Shiyi found Xu Lingyi waiting. He had made a new lantern to match the one from the festival, explaining he felt their doorway looked incomplete.

He spoke tenderly of how she had made his life meaningful, a stark contrast to his past focus on official duties. Troubled by the hunter's words, Shiyi subtly pulled away. Later that night, she examined one of Xu Lingyi's arrows, confirming it was identical to the hunter's, solidifying her fears. In the imperial court, Grand Secretary Chen discussed the severe earthquake in Shandong and the lack of official relief reports.

While Ou Lixing volunteered for the mission, Chen, citing the task's difficulty, assigned Xu Lingyi to lead the inspection team. Back at the mansion, Shiyi noticed that the embroidery on Yu's handkerchief, made by Concubine Wen, matched a pattern connected to her investigation. Soon after, Wan Daxian reported that the hunter's background was clean. The evidence—the matching embroidery and the unique three-edged arrow—now overwhelmingly pointed to Xu Lingyi. That evening, Shiyi served Xu Lingyi wine.

As he grew intoxicated, she probed him, asking if he would still shoot an arrow in a similar hostage situation. He affirmed he would, to ensure a criminal's capture. She then asked him directly how her mother died. Drunk and distraught, Xu Lingyi repeatedly muttered, "It was my fault." Hearing his confession, Shiyi’s heart grew cold. She walked out of the room in a daze and instructed Dongqing to take down the two Heart-to-Heart Lanterns, her belief in their bond shattered.

Episode 28 Recap

At Xianling Pavilion, Shiyi discussed her investigation into her mother's death with Master Jian and Ou Yanxing. She presented her findings: a silk handkerchief whose fabric and embroidery matched a cloth found with Xu Lingyi’s eldest son, and a record showing Concubine Wen had received that same type of fabric. Master Jian found it hard to believe the upright Marquis Yongping would kill an innocent person.

Ou Yanxing cautioned that despite the coroner and hunter's testimonies, the evidence was circumstantial and it would be rash to conclude the Marquis was the killer. Shiyi confessed that while Xu Lingyi had drunkenly admitted fault for her mother’s death, she still struggled to accept he was the murderer. Meanwhile, Concubine Wen and Concubine Qin arrived at Xianling Pavilion to look at fabrics.

On the way, Concubine Wen spoke of her deep love for her son, remarking to the childless Concubine Qin that a child is a mother's everything. Upon seeing Shiyi and Ou Yanxing in a close conversation, Concubine Wen immediately assumed Ou Yanxing was Shiyi's lover. Concubine Qin defended Shiyi, insisting she would not betray her husband. Their loud discussion was overheard by Xu Lingyi, who had just arrived with Lin Bo, prompting him to head towards the pavilion.

Xu Lingyi confronted the pair. After Lin Bo identified Ou Yanxing as the second son of the rival Ou family, an enraged Xu Lingyi drew his sword, accusing Ou Yanxing of having ulterior motives and the Ou family of shamelessness. Ou Yanxing calmly asserted that there was nothing untoward between him and Shiyi. Shiyi defended Ou Yanxing and admitted she knew his true identity.

As Xu Lingyi refused to stand down, a desperate Shiyi held a pair of scissors to her own neck, threatening her life to make him stop. Shocked that she would go to such lengths for Ou Yanxing, Xu Lingyi lowered his weapon. He then rushed to catch her as she stumbled, and in the process, she accidentally stabbed him in the chest with the scissors.

Despite his serious injury, Xu Lingyi immediately ordered everyone present to keep the incident a secret. He commanded them to spread the story that he was ambushed by assassins outside the capital, threatening to expel anyone from the Xu family who revealed the truth. Back at the mansion, the physician confirmed the wound was deep. Great Madam was distraught and wanted to report the attack to the imperial court for a full investigation.

Xu Lingyi forbade it, explaining that he was under an imperial edict to leave for Shandong in three days for disaster relief. Reporting his injury would cause a delay, which would be an act of defiance and a capital offense. He also shared his suspicion that the Ou family was embezzling relief funds and had orchestrated the attack to stop his investigation. Great Madam reluctantly yielded to his resolve.

Wracked with guilt, Shiyi realized that a man who protected her at the risk of his own life could not be a murderer. She reflected on how the evidence—the coroner, the hunter, and the arrow—had surfaced too conveniently, as if orchestrated to frame Xu Lingyi. While he was unconscious, Shiyi stayed by his side for two days without rest, vowing to accept any punishment if he recovered. When Xu Lingyi awoke, he immediately ordered preparations for the journey to Shandong.

Great Madam again pleaded with him to stay and recover, offering to report his injuries to the court. Xu Lingyi reiterated his suspicions about the Ou family and his duty to the people suffering from the disaster, insisting his personal safety was secondary. Seeing his determination, Great Madam finally agreed and asked Shiyi to take good care of him. Before leaving, Xu Lingyi gave Shiyi a divorce agreement.

He explained that if the truth about his injury was ever revealed, she could use the document to leave the Xu family safely and without blame. Devastated, Shiyi confessed everything: her investigation, her meeting with Ou Yanxing under his alias, and how the mounting evidence and his own drunken words had led her to suspect him. She begged him not to divorce her.

Deeply hurt, Xu Lingyi expressed his disappointment, lamenting that he thought they had a mutual understanding, but it had all been his own wishful thinking. He felt she had never truly trusted him and that in her eyes, he was worse than a member of the scheming Ou family. As he departed, Shiyi chased after him in tears.

Lin Bo then revealed the full truth to her: Xu Lingyi had always protected her, from saving her from pirates when they first met to rescuing her from drowning. His urgent departure for Shandong was not because he was indispensable, but to prevent an official investigation that would inevitably expose Shiyi's role in his injury. The divorce agreement was his final measure to ensure her safety, proving his unwavering commitment to protect her above all else.

Upon learning of Xu Lingyi's condition, Ou Lixing of the Ou family saw an opportunity and plotted to take further action against him. Meanwhile, Shiyi dedicated herself to managing the Xu household, ensuring Great Madam and the pregnant Danyang were well-cared for to repay the debt she felt she owed her husband. To pray for his safety, she began embroidering a portrait of Guanyin. In Shandong, Xu Lingyi threw himself into disaster relief.

His wound worsened, and the physician warned that without rest, his life would be in danger. Xu Lingyi refused, insisting the people's needs came first. Later, when a nearby inn caught fire with people trapped inside, he rushed into the blaze to save them without a second thought for his own injuries.

Episode 29 Recap

Great Madam, lamenting the premature deaths of Xu Lingyi's father and brother, prayed to her ancestors for his safe return, acknowledging the heavy burden he shouldered for the Xu family's prosperity. Soon after, she was informed that clues had been found regarding the assassination attempt on Xu Lingyi. Great Madam summoned Concubines Wen and Qin, demanding to know if they were present during the attack.

When their conflicting stories made it clear they were lying, Great Madam threatened punishment according to family rules. Under duress, Concubine Wen confessed that it was Shiyi who had stabbed Xu Lingyi at Xianling Pavilion. When Shiyi was brought before Great Madam, she admitted her guilt and accepted any punishment, expressing only remorse for failing Xu Lingyi, who had treated her with such deep affection.

Great Madam was furious, questioning why Shiyi had concealed the truth and vowing never to forgive her if anything happened to her son. Just then, a messenger arrived from the disaster-stricken area with devastating news: Xu Lingyi had reportedly died in a fire while saving civilians. Overwhelmed with grief, Great Madam collapsed, and Shiyi wept uncontrollably, unable to accept the report. Xu Lingkuan, suspecting foul play by the Ou family, declared his intention to go to Shandong to investigate.

However, Second Madam and Danyang restrained him, emphasizing that if Xu Lingyi was truly gone, the entire family depended on Xu Lingkuan, and his safety was paramount. When Great Madam regained consciousness, she was heartbroken. Believing Shiyi's actions led directly to her son's death, she equated the act to murdering a commander before battle and demanded Shiyi pay with her life. Second Madam, certain Shiyi would never conspire with an enemy, urged her to flee.

Dongqing then remembered the divorce agreement Xu Lingyi had written before his departure, believing it could save Shiyi. However, Shiyi defiantly ordered Dongqing to burn it, declaring that if Xu Lingyi returned, she would accept any punishment, but if he did not, she would not wish to live alone. Great Madam confronted Shiyi at the Western Lateral Court, intent on carrying out her sentence.

Shiyi acknowledged her guilt but pleaded for more time, stating she would not believe Xu Lingyi was dead until she saw his body. Xu Lingkuan, Second Madam, and others interceded, citing the deep affection between Shiyi and Xu Lingyi and pleading for the sake of young Zhun'ge. Great Madam relented, sparing Shiyi's life for now but sending her to a rural farm to be treated no better than a servant.

Meanwhile, upon hearing of Xu Lingyi's supposed death, Wang Yu, who had only been treating Erniang well out of fear of Xu Lingyi's influence, reverted to his cruel nature. He struck Erniang, causing her severe abdominal pain. A physician diagnosed her with a high-risk pregnancy, and Wang Yu's mother, in a rare display of anger, slapped her son for endangering his own child. At the farm, Shiyi tirelessly embroidered a Bodhisattva portrait to pray for Xu Lingyi's safety.

When she ran out of thread for the hair, she ingeniously used her own hair, a technique she had learned from her master. The cruel chief steward, Wang Jinzhong, followed Great Madam's orders, subjecting Shiyi, Dongqing, and Amber to harsh labor. One night, Shiyi pursued a suspicious figure, only to be pushed into a well by the unseen assailant. Dongqing and Amber arrived just in time to rescue her.

Later, as punishment, the steward ordered them to fill all the water tanks on the farm. The exhausting work was mysteriously completed overnight. While her maids believed immortals had intervened, it was actually Lin Shixian, who, having witnessed Shiyi's suffering, had secretly completed the heavy labor for them. Back at the Xu mansion, Great Madam composed herself and organized the family's affairs, entrusting Second Madam with managing the household.

She summoned Xu Lingkuan, reminding him of his brother's bravery and urging him to shoulder his new responsibilities and uphold the family's honor. Understanding the weight on his shoulders, Xu Lingkuan burned his opera scripts that night, vowing to protect the Xu family with his life. Meanwhile, believing Xu Lingyi was dead, Marquis Jingyuan placed more trust in Ou Lixing and gave him the "wolf tally," a token commanding the Ou family's secret forces.

Ou Lixing assured him that his men had personally identified Xu Lingyi's scorched body. Soon after, Ou Lixing learned that Shiyi had been sent away from the Xu mansion. Convinced the Xu family was punishing her privately for stabbing Xu Lingyi, he grew deeply concerned and dispatched his men to find her and ensure her safety.

Episode 30 Recap

The next morning, Shiyi awoke to find all the farm work completed. Lin Shixian arrived, expressing his dismay at seeing her enduring such hardships. Shiyi admitted her regret for having misunderstood and harmed Xu Lingyi, acknowledging that the evidence she found had been deliberately misleading. Understanding the deep-seated animosity between the Ou and Xu families, she pleaded with Lin Shixian not to interfere in her affairs again, urging him to leave due to the many watchful eyes.

After Shiyi departed, Amber offered to tend to Lin Shixian’s injured hand. She then discreetly warned him that his presence posed a risk, as with Xu Lingyi's whereabouts unknown, the Xu family would surely blame him for the Marquis's presumed death if their connection was discovered. Lin Shixian, however, remained resolute, stating he could not leave Shiyi to suffer alone.

Amber described Shiyi’s profound dedication to embroidery, sacrificing her sleep and even using her own hair to complete a Bodhisattva portrait for Xu Lingyi’s safety, noting that because of this, she finally smiled. Lin Shixian emphasized the importance of protecting Shiyi’s hands, as her passion and talent for embroidery were irreplaceable. Later, as Shiyi worked in the fields, the assailant from before attacked her again.

The Chief Steward intervened, ordering his men to apprehend the attacker, who was revealed to be Assistant Steward Wang Jinzhong. Upon hearing about the attack, Lin Shixian rushed to Shiyi, urging her to leave for her safety. Shiyi explained that previous incidents, such as her belongings being searched and her being pushed into a well, indicated the perpetrator was not after money.

She believed Wang Jinzhong was acting under someone else's direction, likely seeking the embroidery cloth she possessed, which she suspected was a clue to her mother's murder. Now that a new lead had emerged, she refused to abandon her investigation. Shiyi then confronted Wang Jinzhong, pressing him to reveal his mastermind. However, before he could speak, an arrow struck and killed him. A group of black-clad assassins immediately swarmed the area, intent on killing Shiyi.

Lin Shixian bravely fought them off, instructing Shiyi to flee. Despite his efforts, the assassins relentlessly pursued Shiyi. At the critical moment, Xu Lingyi, though visibly wounded, appeared and saved her. Shiyi was overwhelmed with emotion, relieved to see him alive but pained by his injuries. Xu Lingyi explained that his supposed death in the Shandong fire was a strategic ruse to draw out the Ou family.

Believing him dead, they had acted without scruple and even tried to frame him for their embezzlement. He downplayed the danger he faced, mentioning he rushed to the farm after Wan Daxian informed him of Shiyi's difficult situation. Shiyi, recalling that the coroner who made her suspect Xu Lingyi was found by Lin Shixian, theorized that Lin Shixian had been unknowingly used by the Ou family, suggesting they were the true culprits behind her mother’s death.

Lin Shixian then arrived, apologizing for his role in finding the misleading coroner, but Xu Lingyi dismissed him, asserting that their marital affairs were not for outsiders to meddle with. Lin Shixian expressed his regret for Shiyi’s suffering before leaving. News of Xu Lingyi’s safety reached the Xu mansion, bringing immense joy. Xu Lingkuan ordered a celebration with plenty of wine. That night, a heavily inebriated Xu Lingkuan was escorted to his room by maids.

Upon learning that Danyang was already asleep, he went to the East Chamber instead. The next morning, Xu Lingkuan woke up horrified to find Xiaolan, one of the maids, beside him, realizing his grave mistake. Danyang, though deeply distressed, handled the situation with remarkable composure. Despite Xu Lingkuan’s tearful apologies, she chose to accept the unfortunate turn of events, promoting Xiaolan to a concubine.

Danyang explained her decision stemmed from a desire to protect her unborn child and to avoid escalating the matter, which could lead to her father’s displeasure and damage her own reputation for jealousy, especially after the previous scandal involving Jie. Nanny Shi remarked on Danyang’s newfound maturity. Xu Lingyi returned to the mansion with Shiyi. Great Madam, displeased, initially forbade Shiyi from entering, accusing her of attempting to harm Xu Lingyi.

However, Xu Lingyi took full responsibility, explaining that his injury was a deliberate deception to lure out the Ou family and that Shiyi had merely cooperated with his plan, enduring much hardship. Seeing Xu Lingyi's heartfelt defense, Great Madam relented, declaring the matter closed. Later, discussing the matter with Yizhen, Great Madam worried that Xu Lingyi’s profound affection for Shiyi might lead to him being hurt, while Yizhen assured her of Shiyi’s character.

Once in the Western Lateral Court, Shiyi showed Xu Lingyi an embroidery cloth she had obtained from Yu. She revealed that her mother had held a similar piece when she died, suspecting it was torn from the killer's clothing. The identical pattern on a handkerchief found on Yu led her to believe there was an Ou family spy within the Xu mansion. Just then, Concubine Wen arrived to plead for forgiveness.

She confessed to revealing Xu Lingyi’s "injury" to Great Madam, which resulted in Shiyi being sent to the farm, claiming she was forced to do so under severe physical punishment. Influenced by Shiyi’s plea on her behalf, Xu Lingyi leniently ordered Concubine Wen to copy the family rules one hundred times. As Concubine Wen left, she mused that the light punishment was a favor to Shiyi and a subtle warning to her.

After Concubine Wen departed, Shiyi and Xu Lingyi resumed their discussion. Shiyi reasoned that Concubine Wen was an unlikely spy, as her son Yu was her lifeline, and she would never risk placing such crucial evidence on him. Xu Lingyi agreed, noting that the hidden spy would now be even more cautious. He concluded that an invisible agent was a double-edged sword: capable of harming the Xu family, but also potentially harming the Ou family, turning a dangerous situation into an opportunity.

Episode 31 Recap

Xu Lingyi expressed his resolve to uncover the truth about the Ou family's long-standing plots and their collusion with pirates. He acknowledged that while their hidden schemes could harm the Xu family, they also presented an opportunity. Shiyi, equally determined, stated her goal was to find evidence linking the Ou family to the pirates who killed her mother and to bring the culprits to justice. Despite their shared goal, the emotional distance between Xu Lingyi and Shiyi lingered.

Xu Lingyi instructed Zhaoying to move his belongings back to Half-moon Chamber, citing a heavy load of official duties. Shiyi, though disappointed, understood that her concealment and lack of trust had deeply wounded him, more so than any physical injury. She asked Amber to help with the packing. Later, Xu Lingyi confessed to Lin Bo that he struggled to face Shiyi because she had never fully trusted him, making him question his place in her heart.

Meanwhile, Lin Shixian, for the first time in years, took an interest in his father's affairs, returning home for Marquis Jingyuan's birthday. He presented a rare South Sea coral and a unique "Early Spring Painting," which deeply pleased his father. Lin Shixian then declared his intention to move back into the Ou family estate, assuring his father he was returning out of filial piety, much to Marquis Jingyuan's delight. However, his true motive was to investigate Concubine Lv's death.

He suspected that Lin Shan, Ou Lixing's personal guard, was the leader of the black-clad assailants at the farm, identifiable by a distinct scar on his hand. Lin Shixian believed Concubine Lv might have been murdered after uncovering secrets about the Ou family's activities. He also deduced that Ou Lixing had manipulated Shiyi by facilitating the search for the coroner and by buying off the assistant steward to steal the embroidered cloth. Lin Shixian's return stirred unease in Ou Lixing.

Madam Ou advised her son that his past failures had eroded Marquis Jingyuan's trust and that he needed to regain his father's favor. Shiyi visited Danyang, having learned about Xu Lingkuan and the maid, Xiaolan. Danyang revealed she had anticipated such occurrences when marrying into a noble family. Expressing a pragmatic acceptance, she explained her decision to elevate Xiaolan to a concubine was a strategic move to earn Xu Lingkuan’s gratitude and avoid a reputation for jealousy.

Shiyi encouraged Danyang to communicate more openly with her husband. Later, Xu Lingkuan arrived with Danyang's favorite Ma's fish jerky, apologizing for causing her distress and vowing that Danyang and their unborn child were the only ones in his heart. Shiyi made continuous efforts to mend her relationship with Xu Lingyi by preparing his meals, but he refused to eat them.

Wuniang visited, joyful about her own pregnancy, and advised Shiyi that having a child would solidify her bond with Xu Lingyi. Concerned by the Marquis's coldness, Dongqing learned from a guard that Xu Lingyi's wound had never properly healed after being aggravated during disaster relief and torn again while saving Shiyi. He was feigning wellness to avoid alarming Great Madam. This led to a heated exchange with Lin Bo, during which Dongqing fiercely defended Shiyi’s sincerity.

Later, Shiyi went to Xu Lingyi's chamber, insisting on changing his dressing herself. Despite his protests, she firmly tended to his wound, vowing to do so daily. A shocking event soon unfolded when Wang Yu, instigated by hecklers in a tavern, drunkenly stormed to Duke Wei's mansion. He scuffled with the steward, and when Duke Wei (Ren Kun) appeared, Wang Yu panicked, screamed that Duke Wei was a murderer, and fled.

The following morning, Wang Yu's body was discovered near the Ren residence. The news devastated the Wang family, particularly Erniang. Meanwhile, the Xu family's garden flourished under Concubine Qin's meticulous care, leading Great Madam to decide on hosting a grand flower-admiring feast. As the head of the household, Shiyi took charge of the preparations. During this time, she discovered a collection of zither scores belonging to Xu Lingyi.

Zhaoying explained that the Marquis was once a renowned zither master, even praised by the Emperor. However, after the deaths of his father and second brother, Xu Lingyi blamed himself for being absorbed in music instead of sharing their burdens. In his grief, he smashed his beloved zither and vowed never to play again until he had avenged them. The news of Wang Yu's death and Erniang's subsequent miscarriage reached Shiyi.

Hesitant to bother him, she was surprised when Xu Lingyi came to her courtyard. He informed her he had already looked into the matter out of concern for her. He explained that while a guard from Duke Wei's household was implicated, Duke Mao believed Duke Wei himself had orchestrated the murder. However, lacking evidence, the Censorate had stalled the investigation. Xu Lingyi found the incident suspicious, noting Wang Yu had been too afraid to provoke Duke Wei again.

He assured Shiyi he had asked his contact in the Censorate, Censor Li, to investigate thoroughly and advised her to console Erniang. Madam Ou visited the grieving Wang family. She slyly suggested that the Censorate was biased and urged them to seek help from Xu Lingyi, leveraging his influence. The Wangs decided that if Erniang could persuade Xu Lingyi to intervene, they would adopt an heir under Wang Yu’s name, securing Erniang’s position.

If she failed, the heir would be adopted by Wang Yu's father, leaving Erniang a childless widow with no standing. Madam Ou then manipulated the desperate Erniang, insisting that Shiyi, being so close to her husband, could easily persuade him. She inflamed Erniang's resentment by implying Shiyi's good fortune came at her expense and hinted that Xu Lingyi might be reluctant to offend Duke Wei for political reasons. Shiyi visited Erniang to offer condolences.

Erniang, accusing Shiyi of owing her for her misfortunes, demanded that she persuade Xu Lingyi to appeal directly to the Emperor for an investigation. Shiyi refused, explaining that Xu Lingyi could not rashly intervene without evidence, though he was already helping through proper channels. Enraged, Erniang accused Shiyi of protecting the Xu family's interests by ignoring Duke Wei's guilt. Shiyi rebuked her for the baseless accusation, and Erniang vowed that Shiyi would regret her refusal.

As Shiyi departed, she encountered Lin Shixian, who confirmed that Wang Yu's death was suspicious. He reassured Shiyi that despite returning to his family, he would not interfere in the conflict between the Ou and Xu families.

Episode 32 Recap

Watching as Xu Lingyi and Shiyi departed hand in hand, Ou Yanxing was filled with a sense of bitterness. On the way back to the mansion, Shiyi explained to Xu Lingyi that her encounter with Ou Yanxing was a coincidence and asked him not to misunderstand. When Xu Lingyi inquired about Erniang's earlier request, Shiyi shared that Erniang was convinced Duke Wei had ordered Wang Yu's death and wanted Xu Lingyi to petition the emperor for a thorough investigation.

Shiyi had refused, feeling it improper to meddle in his official affairs for personal reasons. Xu Lingyi reassured her that he would not ignore the matter, as Erniang was her sister. Shiyi then relayed a peculiar comment from Ou Yanxing: "Wang Yu's death isn't as simple as it appears." She voiced her suspicion that the Ou family was involved.

Xu Lingyi cautioned her, noting that Ou Yanxing was now actively participating in his family's affairs, making him untrustworthy given the deep-seated enmity between the Xu and Ou clans. Shiyi acknowledged his concerns but maintained that Ou Yanxing was not a bad person, affirming she had no private contact with him and was careful in public. She then asked if Xu Lingyi trusted her. Failing to secure Shiyi's help, Erniang created a public disturbance during the Xu family's flower banquet.

Dressed in mourning clothes, she knelt at the mansion gates, stopping the arriving guests. Great Madam Xu, along with Madam Tang and Madam Gan, tried to persuade Erniang to rise, but she refused, accusing Shiyi of abandoning her and the Xu family of protecting Duke Wei out of fear. When Shiyi tried to lead her inside, Erniang insisted on airing her grievances publicly. Great Madam Xu, attempting to salvage the situation, invited the guests inside while the sisters talked.

However, Erniang continued her plea, accusing Duke Wei's retainer, Ren Kun, of murder and the Censorate of a cover-up. She demanded Xu Lingyi use his influence, but Great Madam Xu sternly rebuked her, stating that the Xu family would not violate the law by interfering with the Censorate's duties. As the scene escalated, the guests began to leave.

Young Madam Jiang, Wang Yu's sister, then confronted Great Madam Xu, questioning the Xu family's heartlessness and expressing concern for the future of the betrothal between her family and Zhun. She insisted that if Xu Lingyi officially accused Duke Wei, the Censorate would be forced to act. Great Madam Xu reiterated that the Xu family would not compromise the law for personal gain.

After the chaotic banquet, Great Madam Luo warned Shiyi to remember her identity as a Luo daughter, stating the Luo family would not forgive her if Zhun's betrothal was jeopardized. Back at the Xu mansion, after hearing Second Madam praise Shiyi, Great Madam Xu offered guidance. She advised Shiyi that a matron must understand the hidden motives behind people's actions, suggesting Erniang's behavior had a deeper cause. She stressed that balancing sisterly affection with her duties would require great wisdom.

Meanwhile, Ou Lixing and his wife, Young Madam Ou, reveled in the Xu family's turmoil. Young Madam Ou revealed she had arranged the murder, paying her loyal relative, Zhou Xian, to kill Wang Yu. She was confident their plan would succeed, as interfering would force Xu Lingyi into conflict with Duke Wei, the Censorate, and the Wang and Jiang families. She then instructed Ou Lixing to ensure Zhou Xian left the capital.

At the Xu mansion, Xu Lingyi told Shiyi that Duke Wei had publicly opposed him in court over the sea ban, deliberately creating distance. Xu Lingyi explained his suspicion that the Ou family had orchestrated the initial conflict that led to Wang Yu's death. Connecting this to Ou Yanxing's comment and the current fallout, Shiyi deduced the entire affair was an elaborate scheme by the Ou family to isolate the Xus.

Xu Lingyi suggested Shiyi move to the villa to avoid the trouble, but she refused, insisting she must be the one to resolve it. She argued that if she handled it, only her reputation was at stake, but if he intervened, it would be seen as favoritism, playing into the Ou family's hands. She assured him she had a plan. Trusting her, Xu Lingyi later dispatched a letter to Imperial Censor Li.

Young Madam Ou continued her deception, visiting Erniang and feigning sympathy while subtly pressing her to secure an adopted heir to avoid a bleak future. Emboldened, Erniang returned to the Xu mansion and knelt defiantly in the pouring rain. Shiyi pleaded with her to come inside, but Erniang threatened to collapse and ruin the Xu family's reputation, vowing to drag Shiyi down with her.

As Shiyi turned away, a crowd of Wang Yu's victims suddenly appeared, surrounding Erniang and demanding justice. Shiyi intervened, declaring Erniang a guest of the Xu family and getting the crowd to wait outside. Inside, Shiyi confronted Erniang, revealing the crowd as a taste of the consequences she would face. Erniang accused her of using cruel tactics, but Shiyi calmly stated that as Wang Yu's wife, Erniang bore responsibility for his sins.

Shiyi accused her of not caring about the real killer but only seeking to satisfy Duke Mao's demands for an heir and take revenge on her. Erniang retorted that Shiyi had the life that should have been hers. Shiyi advised her to go home and recover, promising to help with the adoption matter if she stopped causing trouble. She then had a carriage with a warm stove prepared to send Erniang home through the back gate.

Upon her return, Erniang was harshly reprimanded by Young Madam Jiang and Lady Wang for shaming their family. Overwhelmed, she collapsed. They immediately stripped her of her household duties, putting a capable relative, Wang Liu-shi, in charge. A physician diagnosed Erniang with a severe illness stemming from her miscarriage and exposure to the cold, warning her life was in danger without long-term care.

Later, Shiyi thanked Xu Lingkuan, revealing that he was the one who, at her request, had found Wang Yu's victims. Great Madam Xu praised them both—Xu Lingkuan for his resourcefulness and Shiyi for her clever strategy. Following Great Madam Xu's advice to show sisterly concern, Shiyi sent messengers to check on Erniang, but they were always turned away. Meanwhile, Erniang's supposed confidante, Young Madam Ou, deliberately avoided her pleas for help. Unseen, Madam Gan from the Luo family showed silent compassion, secretly sending her personal savings to Erniang with a message to focus on her recovery.

Episode 33 Recap

Concubine Yang, accused by Luo's Head Wife of stealing household silver, pleaded that the money was her personal savings intended to save Erniang's life. Despite her pleas, Luo's Head Wife had her confined to the woodshed. Luo's Head Wife then dispatched a servant with money for Erniang, but the funds were intercepted by Madam Liu at the Wang residence and never reached her. Soon after, Concubine Yang fell seriously ill.

Luo's Head Wife visited her, revealing she knew Concubine Yang had deliberately leaked information to provoke her and worsen her own illness. Now, she wanted Concubine Yang to experience the same suffering. Defeated, Concubine Yang conceded that Luo's Head Wife had won their lifelong battle, but Luo's Head Wife reflected bitterly that even in victory, she felt she had gained nothing. Meanwhile, Xu Lingyi secretly investigated Wang Yu's death and orchestrated a trap.

He had a night watchman go to the Censorate and falsely claim to have witnessed the murder, giving a vivid but inaccurate account of the attack. Zhou Xian, the real killer who was hiding nearby, overheard the false testimony. Panicking that he had been identified, he attacked the watchman and confessed to the murder. At that moment, Xu Lingyi arrived with officials from the Censorate and arrested Zhou Xian, who realized he had been lured into a trap.

News of his capture reached Young Madam Ou and Marquis Jingyuan. Surprised by the failure, they remained confident in Zhou Xian's loyalty, believing he would not betray them. Shiyi visited Erniang in prison to explain Young Madam Ou's intricate schemes. She revealed that Zhou Xian was a retainer of Marquis Jingyuan's family and that Young Madam Ou had orchestrated Wang Yu's murder to frame Ren Kun.

Shiyi further exposed Young Madam Ou's manipulation of Erniang, including her influence on the adoption matter within the Wang family. Erniang initially refused to believe her, but when her maid Jinlian confirmed she had seen Zhou Xian at Marquis Jingyuan's Mansion, Erniang realized she had been deceived. Enraged, she wanted to confront Young Madam Ou, but Shiyi advised against it, explaining that since Zhou Xian had claimed personal vendetta as his motive, they lacked concrete proof against the Ou family.

Shiyi assured Erniang that with the true culprit found, Duke Mao would ensure she was treated fairly. Still, Erniang remained ungrateful, declaring that Shiyi owed her. Unable to let the injustice go, Erniang devised a plan for retribution. She sent Jinlian with a letter to her brother, Zhenxing. The next day, dressed in mourning clothes, Erniang caused a commotion outside Marquis Jingyuan's Mansion, publicly accusing Young Madam Ou of murdering her husband and causing the loss of her child.

Young Madam Ou responded by slapping her. The scene was witnessed by Zhenxing and his scholar classmate, who intervened to defend Erniang and condemn Young Madam Ou. Later, when Zhenxing expressed concern for her, a bitter Erniang suggested his help was merely a tactic to aid the Xu family in their rivalry with the Ou family, which deeply angered him. Zhenxing recounted the confrontation to Xu Lingyi and Shiyi.

They agreed that while it wouldn't secure a conviction, the public scandal would significantly damage the Ou family's reputation. Xu Lingyi also noted that Minister Zhou, now implicated through his family's connection to the killer, had been reprimanded by the Emperor, straining his relationship with the Ou family. That evening, Shiyi prepared a special meal for Xu Lingyi, explaining it was a gesture of gratitude for his help.

Xu Lingyi felt a pang of disappointment, perceiving her actions as obligatory rather than affectionate. He feigned an urgent matter and retreated to his study, questioning whether Shiyi's care stemmed from genuine concern or a sense of debt. Duke Wei revealed to Xu Lingyi his newfound support for lifting the sea ban.

He acknowledged that the Ou family's advocacy for the ban was driven by self-interest and that lifting it was in the nation's best interest, offering a solution to smuggling and a way to replenish the treasury. Separately, Lin Shixian argued the merits of lifting the ban to Marquis Jingyuan, but the Marquis was dismissive and did not divulge his family's illicit trade interests.

Mr. Mu later advised the Marquis that if he truly intended to promote Lin Shixian, he needed to be more forthcoming. Before leaving for Xianling Pavilion, Shiyi was cautioned by the Great Madam of the Xu family about her frequent public appearances, emphasizing that as a Marquis's wife, her conduct reflected on the entire family.

At the pavilion, Shiyi presented Master Jian with an exquisite hair embroidery piece as a birthday gift and announced her intention to withdraw from the guild. Shortly after, Lin Shixian arrived and, upon learning of Shiyi's plan, offered to quit in her place so she could continue her exceptional work. Shiyi politely declined his sacrifice, understanding his good intentions.

Later that evening, as the members of Xianling Pavilion gathered to celebrate Master Jian's birthday, Xu Lingyi passed by and noticed Shiyi's carriage. Persuaded by his attendant Zhaoying, he entered the pavilion to escort Shiyi home.

Episode 34 Recap

In Xianling Pavilion, Shiyi explained to Lin Shixian that as a member of the Xu family, she was duty-bound to consider Xu Lingyi's and the family's feelings. Lin Shixian led her to one of her embroideries, remarking on her exquisite skill and lamenting that such masterpieces should be confined to her boudoir instead of being shared with the world. Just then, Xu Lingyi appeared, having overheard their conversation.

Overjoyed, Shiyi prepared to return home with him, but Xu Lingyi asked her to wait in the carriage while he spoke privately with Lin Shixian. Xu Lingyi stated that since his wife trusted Lin Shixian as a gentleman, he would not doubt him, but hoped Lin Shixian would live up to that trust. Lin Shixian, in turn, admitted his past admiration for Shiyi, which he held before knowing she was Madam Xu.

He assured Xu Lingyi that he would neither tarnish her reputation nor pursue her now that he knew the truth. He also announced his decision to withdraw from Xianling Pavilion, severing all ties within a few days. Xu Lingyi accepted his promise, stating a gentleman never goes back on his word. Meanwhile, Lin Bo brought a very drunk Dongqing home. After a moment of confusion, Dongqing apologized for misunderstanding his intentions.

Though she was more lucid, Lin Bo insisted on ensuring she arrived home safely, admonishing her about her low alcohol tolerance. Back at the Xu mansion, a slightly tipsy Shiyi returned to her room with Xu Lingyi. He gently chided her for drinking with outsiders, prompting Shiyi to suggest she would happily drink at home if he joined her. Xu Lingyi agreed and poured them wine.

Shiyi reflected on her unhappy childhood in the Luo Residence, where she felt constantly on thin ice, finding her only solace in Xianling Pavilion under her master's tutelage. She expressed her commitment to the Xu family as its matron, even offering to withdraw from Xianling Pavilion if they disapproved. Xu Lingyi reassured her, stating he never considered her work a distraction and encouraged her to pursue her passion, promising his support.

Overcome with emotion, Shiyi embraced him, tearfully apologizing for having stabbed him. Xu Lingyi held her, inwardly questioning if her meticulous care and willingness to give up Xianling Pavilion stemmed from genuine affection or merely guilt. The next morning, Xu Lingyi and Shiyi were informed of Grand Madam Luo's critical condition. Shiyi rushed to the Luo Residence, where she encountered Erniang and Wuniang.

The Luo Young Madam suggested Erniang should be grateful to Shiyi for her help, but Erniang retorted that Shiyi had merely used her to deal with the Ou family. An argument erupted until Old Master Luo intervened. The Luo Young Madam then directed Erniang to visit Concubine Yang. Erniang found her mother gravely ill. Concubine Yang recounted how Grand Madam Luo had unjustly accused her of theft and forced her to kneel all night, which led to her severe illness.

She revealed that Grand Madam Luo had forbidden physicians and medicine and had guards preventing anyone from visiting. Giving Erniang her last savings, Concubine Yang passed away, expressing her wish to never be a concubine in another life. Simultaneously, Grand Madam Luo entrusted Zhun to Shiyi's care. When Erniang brought news of Concubine Yang's death, Grand Madam Luo mused that Concubine Yang had gone first, and then, thinking of Yuanniang, she too succumbed to her illness.

Old Master Luo was consumed by remorse for his neglect of Concubine Yang. With two deaths in the family, Old Master Luo was too distraught to oversee the funerals. Zhenxing worried that the funeral would be a quiet affair due to his father's lack of influence, which would be a disgrace. Hearing this, Xu Lingyi offered the Xu family's full assistance to ensure a dignified event.

Zhenxing gratefully accepted and then suggested that Concubine Lv's memorial tablet be moved into the Luo family's ancestral hall, a privilege for a legal wife. Before Shiyi could respond, Erniang demanded the same for Concubine Yang, which Zhenxing knew Old Master Luo would not permit. Erniang then revealed to Xu Lingyi that Shiyi had attempted to flee her marriage, during which Concubine Lv died.

Xu Lingyi calmly stated he already knew and defended Shiyi, affirming that no one could sow discord between them. Shiyi then declined Zhenxing's offer, explaining that her mother, a concubine in life, would not wish to remain one in death, and she would personally enshrine her tablet. In despair, Erniang declared she would take her mother's tablet with her, believing she would never find peace otherwise.

Back at the Xu mansion, Shiyi thanked Xu Lingyi for handling the funerals and preserving the Luo family's reputation. Xu Lingyi replied that as husband and wife, it was their duty to support each other. Shiyi then tried to explain her attempted escape, but Xu Lingyi interrupted, saying it was in the past. Shiyi pursued him, admitting Erniang was right about her initial reluctance to marry him.

She confessed that she had decided to marry him against her will only after suspecting the Xu family's involvement in her mother's death. Xu Lingyi then asked if her thoughtfulness and apologies were merely to compensate for her guilt, questioning what she truly felt for him beyond gratitude. Just then, Yu arrived to ask Xu Lingyi to visit Concubine Wen for her birthday. Xu Lingyi agreed and left. Alone, Shiyi decided to walk in the garden, despite the impending rain.

Episode 35 Recap

Concubine Wen diligently served Xu Lingyi wine and his favorite dishes, hoping he would stay. She reminded him it was her birthday and that their son, Yu, was busy with homework but would join them later. Noticing the darkening sky, Concubine Wen suggested that Xu Lingyi, being busy with daily duties, should relax and stay there overnight as rain was imminent. Meanwhile, a heavy downpour began. In the rain, Shiyi recalled Xu Lingyi's earlier harsh words and shed tears.

She considered bringing him an umbrella but then reasoned that Concubine Wen would surely take good care of him. As she stumbled through the rain, she fell and scraped her skin. When Amber approached with an umbrella, Shiyi initially mistook her for Xu Lingyi, her disappointment visible. However, moments later, Xu Lingyi appeared, embraced Shiyi, and carried her back to her room.

Upon learning that Xu Lingyi had left her quarters for Shiyi's, an infuriated Concubine Wen overturned the table of dishes, vowing to make Shiyi pay. Back in their room, as Xu Lingyi prepared to leave, Shiyi pleaded with him to stay. She confessed her deep affection, admitting her regret for having hurt him and expressing her fear of losing him. Understanding Shiyi’s true feelings, Xu Lingyi's heart softened, and he embraced and kissed her.

Their long-standing issues finally resolved, they found peace together. The following morning, Shiyi, feeling as if she were in a dream, joyfully looked forward to a new routine: having breakfast with Xu Lingyi every day and seeing him off to the morning court. Later, Shiyi witnessed a heated argument between Concubine Lan, a concubine of Xu Lingkuan, and Xiaodie, a maid sent by Danyang to serve her.

Upset that Xu Lingkuan had not stayed with her the previous night, Concubine Lan unleashed her frustration on Xiaodie, who retorted that Lan was blaming her for her own inability to retain Xu Lingkuan. Shiyi intervened, reminding them of the Xu family's strict rules. She suspected that Danyang might be deliberately instigating conflict between them. Later, Shiyi visited Danyang, who was heavily pregnant and diligently working on embroidery.

Shiyi gently advised Danyang to speak openly with Xu Lingkuan about any grievances rather than allowing resentment to fester, which could lead to actions that might damage their relationship. Danyang, however, insisted she harbored no ill will. Shiyi then learned that Wuniang’s dried fruit shop had closed due to poor management, resulting in significant financial losses. Shiyi was concerned that offering money directly might wound Wuniang’s pride. Overhearing her concerns, Xu Lingyi offered his assistance.

He recalled that Wuniang’s dowry included sandy land and promised to have Steward Bai inspect it, believing it could be made profitable. True to his word, Xu Lingyi had the land assessed. Shiyi informed Wuniang that the land was perfectly suited for growing sweet melons, which could yield a substantial annual income. She added that farmers had already been found to manage the work.

Wuniang, overwhelmed with gratitude, expressed immense relief, as she had been worried about their finances, especially with her mother-in-law's impending visit. The serenity of the Xu mansion was soon shattered when Xiaodie pushed Concubine Lan into a pond. Thanks to Shiyi, who had previously instructed people to keep an eye on them, Concubine Lan was quickly rescued, though she was initially feared dead. The shock of the incident caused Danyang to go into premature and difficult labor.

Xu Lingkuan, frantic with worry, disregarded custom and rushed into the delivery room to be by Danyang's side. In her pain, Danyang initially pushed him away. Meanwhile, Concubine Lan was revived. To everyone's relief, Danyang safely delivered a healthy baby boy. Xu Lingyi acknowledged Shiyi's crucial role in ensuring the safety of both mother and child. Later, Shiyi discreetly informed Concubine Lan that Danyang had orchestrated her rescue.

Filled with gratitude, Concubine Lan confessed to Danyang that Xu Lingkuan had never touched her; she had merely taken advantage of his drunken state to create a misunderstanding. Danyang was stunned to realize the depth of her misjudgment. Shortly after, Xu Lingkuan arrived, expressing profound self-blame. Danyang tearfully apologized for her own mistakes, which had nearly cost them their child. They reconciled, promising to live happily together.

Danyang suggested giving Xiaolan (Concubine Lan), who had lied, and Xiaodie, who had committed the assault, their indentures and some money, allowing them to leave the mansion rather than face harsher punishment. Xu Lingkuan agreed. Seeing Shiyi as her closest friend, Danyang asked her to call her by her given name from then on. Separately, Erniang's maid, Jinlian, returned to the Luo Residence with grim news: Erniang was severely ill and in despair at the Wang mansion.

All household affairs there were under the cruel control of Lady Wang-Liu, the mother of the late heir. Since the passing of his son, Duke Mao had become withdrawn, dedicating himself to spiritual cultivation and neglecting family matters. The old Madam Wang was also gravely ill, surrounded by Lady Wang-Liu's servants and thus unreachable. Jinlian explained that Erniang had sent her away to prevent Lady Wang-Liu from marrying her off to an old widower.

Luo Zhenxing, infuriated, wanted to confront the Wang family, but Shiyi took charge, proposing that she and Wuniang visit Erniang with a physician. Upon their arrival at Duke Mao's Mansion, Lady Wang-Liu's servants tried to block them, but Shiyi asserted her authority as Erniang's sister and ordered any uncooperative individuals removed. Inside, they found Erniang frail and weak. When Erniang stubbornly rejected their help, Shiyi used reverse psychology.

She scoffed at Erniang's helplessness, criticizing her for being arrogant with her own family but timid and undignified when facing outsiders, calling her a disgrace to the Luo family. Enraged, Erniang declared she would rather die than accept their "charity." Unperturbed, Shiyi turned to leave with Wuniang, telling Erniang to take responsibility for her own maid.

Episode 36 Recap

Following their visit to the Wang mansion, a worried Wuniang questioned Shiyi's harsh methods towards Erniang. Shiyi calmly explained that a potent remedy is often necessary for a serious illness, revealing her true intention was to shock Erniang into fighting for her life. Meanwhile, Lady Wang-Liu, convinced Erniang was on her deathbed, gloated about her plans to seize the family property and instructed her people to watch Erniang closely.

Later, Shiyi's maid, Amber, correctly deduced that Shiyi's plan was to provoke Erniang, an insight that Shiyi affirmed, calling Amber her true confidante. On her way home, Shiyi encountered Ou Yanxing, who apologized for any trouble his withdrawal from Xianling Pavilion may have caused, explaining it was due to his own business commitments. Noticing her distress, he asked what was wrong. Shiyi confided her concern for Erniang’s deteriorating health and refusal to accept help.

Ou Yanxing suggested that the key was simply getting Erniang to willingly take her medicine. Finding this advice sensible, Shiyi discussed it with Xu Lingyi, who agreed it was a sound approach. Shiyi confessed to Xu Lingyi that while she sometimes resented Erniang, they were still sisters, and she couldn't stand to see her bullied. Xu Lingyi acknowledged her compassionate nature. Shiyi summoned Jinlian, Erniang's loyal maid, and gave her medicine with specific instructions.

Jinlian found Erniang in despair, ready to give up. Following Shiyi's plan, Jinlian goaded her mistress, reminding her how Shiyi had mocked her cowardice and helplessness. She argued that giving up would only prove Shiyi right and signify a complete defeat. Enraged and determined not to be looked down upon by Shiyi or anyone else, Erniang finally took the medicine.

Her condition soon improved, but she continued to feign severe illness to deceive Lady Wang-Liu, who dismissed Jinlian's pleas for a better physician, confident that Erniang's end was near. Xu Lingyi was furious to learn that his son, Zhun, had skipped most of his lessons. When confronted, Zhun cheekily argued that "food and beauty are human nature," twisting a classic saying to justify his behavior. To address his academic neglect, Shiyi proposed that Zhun and Yu study together.

She reasoned that the diligent Yu could be a good role model for his younger brother, and it would also prevent Yu's own studies from being delayed, as his tutor was on leave. Great Madam initially objected, citing the traditional separation of legitimate and illegitimate children in education. Shiyi countered with historical examples, arguing that brotherhood is forged through connection, not separation. Xu Lingyi supported Shiyi, stating it was his decision. Seeing their united front, Great Madam relented.

Later, Xu Lingyi confided in Shiyi that having the boys study together was not a long-term solution. He revealed his plan to send Yu to the prestigious Jinxi Academy in Sichuan the following spring, both for Yu's own development under a renowned scholar and to distance him from the Wen family's troubling business ties with the Ou family.

Meanwhile, Concubine Wen, encouraged by her maid, was planning to capitalize on Xu Lingyi's attention to Yu by arranging a high-status marriage for him. Unaware of this, Yu was thrilled when Xu Lingyi proposed sending him to Jinxi Academy, an institution he had long admired. Upon learning of the plan, Concubine Wen frantically rushed to Shiyi, begging her not to send Yu away. Shiyi urged her to consider what was best for Yu's future and to consult him first.

Xu Lingyi arrived and firmly stated the decision was his, warning Concubine Wen not to bother Shiyi. Though she dared not object, Concubine Wen secretly blamed Shiyi, believing she was trying to get rid of Yu. In the courtyard, Dongqing playfully insisted on giving Lin Bo a massage for his strained neck, which, to his surprise, actually helped. Back at the Wang mansion, a fully recovered Erniang secretly replaced Lady Wang-Liu's servants with her own loyal staff.

When Lady Wang-Liu attempted to sell Jinlian to a man, Erniang dramatically appeared, healthy and resolute. She confronted Lady Wang-Liu, accusing her of illegally selling a dowry maid, and ordered her sent to the authorities. When Lady Wang-Liu’s hired servants refused her orders, revealing their new allegiance, she desperately appealed to her biological son, who was also Erniang's adopted heir.

Erniang gave him an ultimatum: publicly banish Lady Wang-Liu and her cohorts within three days, or face charges of being unfilial. Cornered and terrified, Lady Wang-Liu knelt and begged for mercy, agreeing to leave immediately. Erniang instructed that she and her people be searched for stolen goods on their way out. Shiyi was relieved that Erniang had regained control, but worried that as a widow, she remained vulnerable.

Xu Lingyi, understanding her concern, discreetly asked the Shuntian Prefecture Office to keep an eye on the Wang family. Meanwhile, Master Jian brought exciting news: Xianling Pavilion was invited to submit an entry for the Emperor's birthday celebration. Shiyi proposed an innovative "One Hundred Longevity Picture," with each character written in a different historical calligraphy style. They needed an expert calligrapher, and just then, Ou Yanxing arrived.

He warned Shiyi that his brother, Ou Lixing, was overseeing the event, so she should be cautious. When asked, he readily agreed to write the complex calligraphy draft for their project. When Shiyi brought the draft home, Xu Lingyi lavishly praised its flawless style, believing she had written it. Upon learning it was Ou Yanxing’s work, he grew visibly jealous and dismissed the calligraphy as "dull and rushed."

Shiyi later found him secretly practicing his own calligraphy, a move that amused her. To lift his spirits, she asked him to teach her archery. In the courtyard, as he guided her, they shared a moment of mutual appreciation for each other’s roles in protecting the country and managing the home. After hitting the target, Shiyi mentioned she had another matter concerning the "One Hundred Longevity Picture" to discuss with him.

Episode 37 Recap

With the "One Hundred Longevity Picture" nearly finished, Shiyi’s teacher advises her to rest. Upon Xu Lingyi's return home, he expresses concern over her heavy workload, but she explains that the intricate household affairs require her personal oversight. She assures him she can manage, driven by the hope that if the embroidery is chosen, Xianling Pavilion's skills will become widely known and empower more women. Xu Lingyi affirms that his support is her greatest source of strength.

Once the embroidery is complete, Shiyi shows it to Lin Shixian, who helped with the calligraphy. He praises the exquisite work, confident it will be selected, but reminds her to be wary of potential sabotage. Shiyi confirms she has a counterplan and takes the embroidery home for safekeeping. At the Xu mansion, the other concubines gather and eagerly request to see the "One Hundred Longevity Picture," which Shiyi allows Dongqing to display.

Meanwhile, Concubine Wen, feigning sadness over her son Yu's upcoming departure to Leshan for his studies, suggests he play hide-and-seek with Zhun one last time. Yu finds Zhun, explains his academic journey, and gives him a farewell gift. The boys agree to play, with Yu counting while Zhun hides. Shortly after, a frantic Yu informs Shiyi that he cannot find Zhun. Shiyi immediately orders Amber to seal the mansion and mobilizes all servants for a search.

Xu Lingyi arrives amidst the commotion and, learning of Zhun’s disappearance, assures everyone that Zhun must still be within the estate. Following Yu’s directions, Xu Lingyi notices a trail of small toys and realizes Zhun was deliberately lured away. Xu Lingyi and Shiyi rush to the Western Courtyard, only to find Concubine Wen burning the "One Hundred Longevity Picture." Dongqing sustains a burn on her hand while attempting to retrieve it.

Xu Lingyi confronts Concubine Wen, highlighting the severe repercussions her actions could have on the Xu family and Yu. Just then, Zhun is found, having been locked in an abandoned storeroom. A distraught Nanny Tao immediately accuses Yu and Concubine Wen of conspiring to harm Zhun. Yu vehemently denies any wrongdoing. Concubine Wen embraces her son and takes full responsibility, insisting Yu had no part in it.

After Shiyi orders the children to be taken away, Concubine Wen drops all pretense, denying any Ou family involvement and bitterly accusing the Xu family of never treating her well, claiming her marriage was solely a transaction for military provisions. Nanny Tao counters, reminding her of the Wen family's profits from the Xu name. Concubine Wen continues, lamenting Xu Lingyi’s neglect since Shiyi's arrival and his favoritism towards Zhun, asserting that Yu is her life.

Xu Lingyi's attempts to reason with her are futile, and he orders her confined to her rooms. As she is led away, Concubine Wen warns Nanny Tao that Shiyi will eventually have her own child, and then they will see if the late Yuanniang can still protect Zhun from the heavens. An imperial edict, delivered by a eunuch and Ou Lixing, the Vice-Minister of Rites, mandates Xu Lingyi and Shiyi to immediately present the ceremonial embroidery at the Palace.

The eunuch explains that Ou Lixing had informed His Majesty about Xianling Pavilion, sparking the Emperor’s sudden interest. At the Palace, Shiyi presents a magnificent "Four Divinities" embroidery, a piece symbolizing protection and good fortune. Eunuch Huang praises its exquisite craftsmanship. However, Ou Lixing objects, asserting that Shiyi initially registered the "One Hundred Longevity Picture" and accuses her of deceiving the Emperor.

Shiyi calmly explains that due to the celebration's importance and the embroidery's fragile nature, she had prudently registered the "Four Divinities" as a backup with the Ministry of Rites. A flashback reveals Shiyi and Xu Lingyi had anticipated the Ou family's malicious intent and strategically prepared for it. Back in the present, an official confirms the backup registration, which bears Ou Lixing's own signature. Flustered, Ou Lixing admits his signature but claims he forgot.

He then insists on seeing the "One Hundred Longevity Picture," at which point Shiyi reveals it was accidentally burned, expressing relief that the backup prevented her from being charged with deception. Eunuch Huang assures them he will report the full account to the Emperor. Following the report, the Emperor expresses satisfaction with the "Four Divinities" embroidery.

He issues a verbal edict for Ou Lixing to be flogged twenty times for dereliction of duty and abuse of power, having seen through his attempt to frame the Xu family. Ou Lixing protests vehemently but is removed for punishment. Eunuch Huang advises Xu Lingyi not to betray the Emperor's trust and confirms Xianling Pavilion’s selection. He later explains that the Emperor, aware of the Ou family's recent troubles, seized this opportunity to issue a stern warning.

Meanwhile, Lin Shixian arrives at the Palace, having rushed there after learning of the incident. He expresses relief at Xu Lingyi and Shiyi's safety and thanks them for their early warning which allowed for preparations. He then confronts a battered Ou Lixing, who accuses him of conspiring with the Xu family. Lin rebuffs the accusation, stating Ou Lixing brought this upon himself.

Ou Lixing, referring to him dismissively as the "son of a concubine," questions his right to preach, but Lin clarifies that he was already an owner of Xianling Pavilion before Shiyi joined. At the Ou mansion, Ou Lixing complains to his father, Ou Master, accusing Lin Shixian (known as Yanxing within the family) of colluding with the Xu family. Ou Master summons Yanxing to his study, acknowledging Lixing’s foolishness but stressing that Yanxing must help bear the family's burdens.

He presents Yanxing with a portrait of Minister Fang’s daughter, deeming her a suitable match to further the Ou family’s interests. Yanxing asserts his right to choose his own spouse, prompting Ou Master to ask if his refusal is due to Shiyi. Yanxing voices his admiration for her but insists his argument is practical: the conflict with the Xu family is detrimental to all, and the Emperor’s punishment of Lixing is a clear warning.

He suggests a strategic retreat, cautioning that continuing the feud will lead to the Ou family being "crushed to pieces." Infuriated, Ou Master orders Yanxing punished according to family rules, declaring that the generational grudge is too profound to abandon, as retreat would mean utter destruction. Later, Nanny Tao informs Shiyi that Zhun, though startled, is recovering well. Great Madam tells Shiyi she now believes Concubine Wen was an informant and confirms her permanent banishment to a farmstead.

While praising Shiyi's contribution, Great Madam expresses her wish for Shiyi to withdraw from Xianling Pavilion, citing the recent dangers. Shiyi acknowledges her worries, but Great Madam insists that their future safety is paramount, leaving the final decision to Shiyi and Xu Lingyi. Meanwhile, Dongqing, whose hand was burned, goes to the lake to retrieve a fallen handkerchief. Lin Bo misunderstands her actions, assuming she is distraught that the injury will affect her marriage prospects. He embraces her tightly, offering to marry her. Dongqing pushes him away and tells him to stop his foolish talk, but a subtle, pleased expression reveals her true feelings.

Episode 38 Recap

Concubine Wen, exiled to a farm, received a visit from her sister-in-law. Her sister-in-law revealed that an anonymous party had discovered the Wen family's role in a silk farmer's death and was threatening to report them to the authorities unless they destroyed Shiyi's embroidery. Concubine Wen accepted her suffering, prioritizing the Wen family's safety and Yu's future, as he, being an illegitimate son, depended on their support.

Her sister-in-law chided her for being caught, to which Concubine Wen explained that Shiyi had already been suspicious and had even accused her of being an Ou family informant, which implicated Yu. The sister-in-law stressed that the Wen family's involvement must remain secret to safeguard Yu's prospects. Xianling Pavilion thrived after the Emperor praised Shiyi's "Four Divinities" embroidery, leading to numerous orders.

Shiyi humbly attributed the success to her teachers, Master Jian and Master Luo, and the collective efforts of the other embroiderers. Concerned that Ou Yanxing might face punishment from Marquis Jingyuan over the embroidery incident, she tasked Amber with inquiring about his well-being. Meanwhile, several girls presented Master Jian and Master Luo with an embroidery piece titled "Loved By Your Students," thanking them for teaching them skills that allowed them to make a living.

Master Jian expressed his hope that they would continue to spread their skills and help more women. Within the Ou family mansion, Ou Lixing fumed over his father's leniency towards Ou Yanxing, believing he should be expelled from the clan. Elsewhere, Amber tended to a badly injured Ou Yanxing, expressing her deep concern. Ou Yanxing gently reminded her that he already had someone in his heart. Just then, Ou Lixing burst into the room.

As he ordered a servant to apply medicine to Ou Yanxing's wounds, Amber, who had hidden, offered to do it herself from behind a screen. Ou Lixing caught a glimpse of a woman's partially exposed back and mistakenly believed Ou Yanxing was entertaining a lover despite his injuries. He left with a mocking remark, assuring Ou Yanxing he would not speak of such a "shameful thing." After they left, Ou Yanxing instructed Amber to leave discreetly.

Though acknowledging her humble status and forbidden feelings, Amber reiterated her selfless wish for Ou Yanxing's happiness and safety. Xu Lingyi was troubled by Marquis Jingyuan's imprisonment of the pirate leader Wang Jiubao's wife and son in Nanjing. As the court wished to recruit Wang Jiubao, Xu Lingyi believed that rescuing his family was key to gaining his trust and potentially securing evidence against the Marquis.

Overruling his aide's concerns, Xu Lingyi insisted on going to Nanjing personally, having already laid out a meticulous plan. There, he successfully rescued Wang Jiubao's family and met with the pirate leader. He offered a favorable enlistment, including command of his own men and autonomy from the Fujian military. Wang Jiubao remained skeptical, questioning how he could trust a government that had driven his people to piracy and kidnapped his family.

When Xu Lingyi revealed the court's plan to lift the sea ban, Wang Jiubao stated he would only consider the offer after the ban was truly lifted. Back home, Xu Lingyi remained hopeful, explaining that Wang Jiubao’s distrust stemmed from years of being threatened by the Marquis and that he believed the pirates, who only sought survival, would agree to the terms once the sea ban was lifted.

At Duke Mao's mansion, Erniang discovered her adopted son stealing family property for his birth mother, Lady Wang-Liu. Enraged, she intended to punish him according to family rules, but her maid, Jinlian, intervened. Jinlian advised that punishing the boy would only drive him closer to his birth mother and cause future trouble for Erniang. Later, Erniang confronted Jinlian, suspecting she was secretly taking advice from Shiyi.

Jinlian tearfully confessed that Shiyi had been discreetly helping out of genuine concern, providing medicine and guidance to help Erniang cope with her illness and struggles. Erniang, initially dismissive, relented after Jinlian's tearful plea. Jinlian declared her own loyalty, professing that she was the one who could not live without Erniang. Erniang allowed Jinlian to stay on the condition that she would no longer keep secrets, stating the incident would be forgotten.

Ou Lixing met with Concubine Qin, revealing her as his informant. He praised her for protecting herself after their previous plan failed, then tasked her with driving a wedge between Xu Lingyi and Shiyi. Reminding her of her own quest for vengeance against the Xu family, he urged her to succeed. Ou Lixing then brought up "Master Lin" from Xianling Pavilion. Concubine Qin identified him as a painter and co-owner.

Ou Lixing revealed Lin's true identity as the Ou family's second son and hinted at a suspiciously close relationship with Shiyi. He informed Qin that she and Shiyi would be invited to an upcoming banquet hosted by Prince Yu, instructing her to use this opportunity to her advantage. Xu Lingyi returned from his trip to find Shiyi eagerly awaiting him. They shared a tender reunion, embracing and speaking of how much they missed each other.

He recounted his partial success with Wang Jiubao, confident the pirate would surrender once the sea ban was lifted. The next day, Dongqing admired an elegant belt Shiyi had embroidered for Xu Lingyi, who complimented Shiyi for knowing his tastes so well. Lin Bo later privately gave Dongqing a scar-removing medicine he "chanced upon," hinting at his romantic interest. Inspired, Dongqing decided to embroider a belt for Lin Bo, using Xu Lingyi’s as a reference.

Amber saw Dongqing with the Marquis's belt and mistakenly believed she harbored improper feelings for him. Later, Amber told Dongqing she had stopped wearing a precious prayer bracelet because she felt unworthy of it due to her own "improper thoughts." Dongqing, misunderstanding, lectured Amber on knowing her place as a servant, but Amber retorted that status doesn't define a person's worth. While distressed about her long-lost sister's upcoming birthday, Amber hoped only for her safety.

Later, Concubine Qin found a handkerchief in the courtyard with a distinctive half-lotus pattern. Hiding, she overheard Amber confirm the handkerchief was a keepsake from her sister. Concubine Qin then recalled that Biyu, Yuanniang's former maid, had entrusted her with a matching half-handkerchief, asking her to care for Biyu's sister if she ever found her. Realizing Amber was Biyu's sister, Concubine Qin saw this as a pivotal opportunity to seek justice for both herself and the deceased Biyu.

Concubine Qin visited Second Madam, finding her struggling to paint bamboo for an upcoming memorial for the late Marquis and Master Ling'an. Second Madam explained it was a tradition she kept in their memory. Concubine Qin subtly remarked that their deaths were due to the Ou family's betrayal, then suggested Second Madam seek out the exceptionally skilled bamboo painter, Master Lin, at Xianling Pavilion.

When Second Madam considered asking Shiyi to go, Qin noted that Shiyi was busy, compelling Second Madam to go herself. At the pavilion, Second Madam found Ou Yanxing, whom she recognized as Master Lin. He humbly agreed to paint for her and quickly produced a beautiful piece. He refused payment, offering the painting as a gift and asking only for her future patronage of Xianling Pavilion.

Episode 39 Recap

On the memorial day for the late Marquis Yongping and his second son, Ling'an, Xu Lingyi visited Ling'an's memorial tablet. He placed a bamboo painting before it, vowing to find evidence of the Ou family's crimes and bring justice to both Ling'an and his late father. Meanwhile, Great Madam gathered the Xu family, emphasizing their long history of protecting the nation.

She sternly reminded them to unite and uphold the family's dignity, warning that betrayal from within—citing Concubine Qiao Lianfang's selfish deeds and Concubine Wen's collusion with the Ou family—would not be tolerated. Second Madam, Yizhen, expressed her profound grief over the family's losses. Great Madam then voiced her concerns, lamenting the family's constant troubles and attributing them to Shiyi's continued involvement with Xianling Pavilion, which she felt distracted Shiyi from her main duty of providing an heir.

As autumn arrived, Prince Yu extended a special invitation to Shiyi for a banquet. Great Madam informed Shiyi that she and Second Madam Yizhen would accompany her. She cautioned Shiyi, whose embroidery from Xianling Pavilion had gained court-wide attention, to be extremely careful with her words and actions at the banquet to avoid bringing trouble upon the Xu family.

Just before their departure, Zhun showed off a rabbit lantern he had made and asked about his brother Yu, who had left for Leshan to study. Upon arriving at Prince Yu's mansion, the Xu family witnessed Marquis Jingyuan, an Ou family member, arrive with his sons, including Ou Yanxing, who was known to Shiyi as the painter Lin Shixian.

Second Madam Yizhen was deeply shocked to realize that the bamboo painting she had offered to Ling'an at the memorial ceremony was created by a member of the Ou family, their sworn enemies. Back at the Xu mansion, Great Madam and a distraught Second Madam Yizhen confronted Shiyi about Lin Shixian's true identity.

Xu Lingyi intervened, admitting he already knew Lin Shixian was Ou Yanxing but defended Shiyi, explaining that Yanxing was unaware of the family feud and had, in fact, assisted them on multiple occasions. Xu Lingyi accepted shared responsibility, but Second Madam Yizhen was overcome with sorrow, crying that she had unknowingly dishonored her late husband with an enemy's painting. Shiyi apologized for the pain her oversight had caused.

Great Madam, however, held Shiyi responsible and demanded she immediately leave Xianling Pavilion to focus on household duties and producing an heir. When Xu Lingyi tried to intercede, Great Madam remained firm, stating a married woman must be entirely committed to her husband's family. While Shiyi accepted any punishment for her mistake, she steadfastly refused to abandon Xianling Pavilion, explaining that embroidery was her passion and a way to empower other women.

Second Madam Yizhen, still distressed, urged Shiyi to quit, fearing the Ou family would exploit her. Seeing the impasse, Great Madam grounded Shiyi in the Western Lateral Court. Danyang and Concubine Qin visited the grounded Shiyi. Danyang expressed concern that embroidery was the root of her troubles, while Concubine Qin advised Shiyi to conform to traditional roles. Shiyi challenged this notion, asserting her right to pursue personal passions beyond her marital duties.

Soon after, Shiyi's sisters, Wuniang and Erniang, also arrived. Erniang made critical remarks about Shiyi's stubbornness, though she meant well. Later, Erniang and Wuniang paid their respects to Great Madam. Wuniang began by diplomatically praising Shiyi’s conduct and attributing her positive changes to Great Madam’s guidance. Erniang also spoke up in her sister's defense. Great Madam acknowledged Shiyi’s virtues but reaffirmed her strict stance on discipline. Afterward, Wuniang expressed concern over Erniang's boldness in speaking directly to Great Madam.

Erniang explained she had to defend Shiyi, believing that if their sister were looked down upon, it would shame them all, revealing to a surprised Wuniang that she truly cared. Xu Lingyi visited Shiyi, comforting her and suggesting they wait for his mother's anger to subside before discussing Xianling Pavilion again. Meanwhile, Danyang confided in Xu Lingkuan that she now admired Shiyi for pursuing ambitions Danyang herself feared to chase.

Xu Lingkuan confessed that unlike his brother, he could not bear the thought of his wife working publicly. Great Madam and Concubine Qin then visited Second Madam Yizhen. Great Madam mentioned that the sisters' defense of Shiyi proved her sincerity and suitability as the main wife. Second Madam Yizhen agreed that Shiyi's oversight was due to inexperience, not ill intent. Concubine Qin subtly fanned the flames, implying that Shiyi's negligence stemmed from her preoccupation with Xianling Pavilion.

Great Madam grew angry, accusing Shiyi of being "too self-willed" for associating with the Ou family and neglecting her duties. She resolved to personally teach Shiyi the "doctrine of being a wife" before she could be fully entrusted with the family. Concubine Qin then set a trap. After sending Amber to the garden, she asked her to retrieve an embroidery pattern from a cabinet where she had planted half of an embroidered handkerchief.

Amber immediately recognized the handiwork as belonging to her elder sister, Tong Biyu, a former maid of Yuanniang. Pretending surprise, Concubine Qin revealed she had the other half, given to her by Biyu before her death, and deduced Amber was Biyu's long-lost sister. She then led Amber to Biyu's former room, revealing Biyu had committed suicide by hanging herself there. Amber vehemently denied that her strong-willed sister would take her own life, convinced there was foul play.

Concubine Qin insinuated Biyu's death might be linked to Yuanniang. Amber suggested that Nanny Tao, Yuanniang's trusted maid, might know the truth. Not wanting to burden the troubled Shiyi, Amber pleaded with Concubine Qin to investigate, and Qin promised to uncover the truth for her deceased friend.

Episode 40 Recap

Concubine Qin offered Nanny Tao drinks, and as Nanny Tao became tipsy, she spoke of the past concerning Concubine Tong, Biyu. Nanny Tao revealed that when Yuanniang was pregnant with Zhun, she couldn't share a bed with Xu Lingyi. To secure her position, Yuanniang used Biyu's younger sister, Amber, as leverage to force Biyu to climb into Xu Lingyi's bed while he was drunk. The next morning, he had no choice but to take her as a concubine.

However, Xu Lingyi never entered Biyu's room again. Yuanniang, whose plan had failed, often mocked Biyu. Being soft-natured, Biyu couldn't endure the constant jeers and eventually hanged herself. Nanny Tao lamented that if Xu Lingyi had not been so cold and had shown Biyu some care, she might not have been driven to such a desperate end. Concubine Qin subtly reinforced this, commenting on Xu Lingyi's lack of devotion and suggesting his coldness contributed to Biyu's despair.

Unbeknownst to them, Amber was secretly listening. After Nanny Tao became fully intoxicated, Amber emerged, distraught. Concubine Qin, who had orchestrated the conversation, was confident that Amber, fiercely loyal to Shiyi, would cause a stir. Amber confronted Concubine Qin, revealing her identity as Biyu's sister and stating that Yuanniang and the Luo family had used her to coerce Biyu.

She accused both the Luo family and Xu Lingyi of forcing her sister to her death by ignoring her and allowing her to be humiliated. Concubine Qin feigned sympathy, lamenting the harsh realities of noble families. Grateful, Amber vowed to never forget Concubine Qin's kindness. Later, Xu Lingyi again approached Great Madam about Shiyi's involvement with Xianling Pavilion. He informed her that Ou Yanxing had completely distanced himself from the pavilion, hoping to alleviate her concerns.

However, Great Madam remained firm, asserting that Ou Yanxing's departure might have a hidden agenda and that Shiyi should focus on her duties within the family. When Xu Lingyi countered that Shiyi was a competent matron, Great Madam pointed to Shiyi's lack of children as proof of her inadequacy.

Despite Xu Lingyi's reassurance that Shiyi was young, Great Madam insisted that Shiyi's external pursuits prevented her from fully caring for him and declared her intention to find him new concubines, dismissing his refusal. Later, Xu Lingyi assured Shiyi he would not take a new concubine, but Shiyi acknowledged the difficulty of defying Great Madam. He encouraged her to live according to her heart, promising to handle everything else.

Witnessing Shiyi's distress, Amber feared she would suffer a fate similar to her sister. She expressed her anxieties to Concubine Qin, who subtly reinforced the idea that Shiyi would be happier living as she wished, away from the Xu mansion. Agitated, Amber later suggested to Dongqing that Shiyi should consider divorcing Xu Lingyi. Dongqing vehemently disagreed, arguing that divorce would bring social condemnation and defending Xu Lingyi's good treatment of Shiyi.

Misinterpreting Dongqing's support for Xu Lingyi, Amber accused her of harboring inappropriate feelings for him and urged her to examine her own heart, which Dongqing angrily denied. Meanwhile, General Fu happily showed a friend an exquisite belt intended for Dongqing. However, upon seeing Xu Lingyi's troubled expression over Great Madam's insistence on new concubines, General Fu decided against discussing his relationship with Dongqing at that moment.

Amber, determined to push Shiyi toward leaving, deliberately mentioned to Mrs. Du that two of Xu Lingyi's personal garments were missing, implying that only she or Dongqing had access to them. Mrs. Du relayed her suspicions to Great Madam, who, seeing a potential leverage point, immediately ordered a search of Dongqing's room. In Dongqing's room, servants led by Mrs. Du discovered Xu Lingyi's belt. Mrs. Du immediately accused Dongqing of having improper thoughts about Xu Lingyi.

Shiyi arrived and tried to intercede, but Great Madam was furious. Dongqing tearfully explained that she had taken the belt to study its intricate embroidery stitches. Before she could clarify that she intended to create a similar piece for General Fu, Great Madam scoffed at her explanation, denouncing an unmarried maid secretly possessing a master's personal item as illicit. Shiyi vouched for Dongqing's loyalty and character, and Concubine Qin also feigned concern, but Great Madam was unmoved.

She presented Shiyi with an ultimatum: within three days, Shiyi must either withdraw from Xianling Pavilion and agree to let Xu Lingyi take Dongqing as a concubine, or Dongqing would be sold off. Great Madam ordered Dongqing locked in the firewood room. As Dongqing was dragged away, she saw General Fu, who looked at her with profound disappointment. Shiyi, deeply troubled, lost her appetite. She believed in Dongqing's innocence and sensed that Great Madam learning of the belt was suspicious.

Amber continued to subtly manipulate Shiyi, urging her to leave the mansion for the freedom she found at Xianling Pavilion. Meanwhile, Concubine Qin was pleased with her scheme, believing that driving a wedge between Shiyi and Xu Lingyi would finally ease her own long-held grievances. Amber visited Dongqing in the firewood room, where Dongqing pleaded her innocence.

Amber dismissed her pleas, revealing that Great Madam was already seeking new concubines for Xu Lingyi and proposed that Dongqing herself should become the concubine. She argued that Dongqing, unlike a stranger, would never harm Shiyi. Horrified, Dongqing initially refused, but Amber persisted, claiming that only Dongqing's "betrayal" would disillusion Shiyi enough to leave the mansion. She urged Dongqing to make this sacrifice for Shiyi's ultimate good, causing Dongqing to consider the painful choice as she thought of General Fu.

Moments later, General Fu arrived and confronted Dongqing, heartbroken. He confessed his love, his intention to marry her, and his shock at learning she supposedly coveted Xu Lingyi. Recalling Amber's words, Dongqing swallowed her pain and falsely confessed that she had always desired to be Xu Lingyi's concubine. She claimed that since he didn't fancy her, she was settling for the "second-best option," General Fu, for wealth and status. Devastated, General Fu denounced her as a greedy woman. Hardening her heart, she agreed and told him to forget her. As he walked away shattered, Dongqing secretly wept, knowing she had to sacrifice his heart for Shiyi's sake.

Episode 41 Recap

Xu Lingkuan sought out Great Madam regarding Xu Lingyi taking a concubine, but was severely admonished by her for attempting to dissuade her. Xu Lingkuan recounted his realization after Xiaolan's incident that rules cannot control emotions, and true affection allows no third party. He emphasized that Shiyi was clearly special to Xu Lingyi and advised him to carefully consider the impact on their marital bond.

Xu Lingyi affirmed his absolute refusal to take Dongqing as a concubine, stating there was no room for negotiation, despite acknowledging his mother's resolute determination. While recognizing Great Madam's intentions were for the Xu family's good, Xu Lingyi maintained that he would not compromise if she persisted, vowing not to cause his mother distress or upset Shiyi, confident that a solution would be found. Shiyi, having barely eaten for two days, requested to see Dongqing.

Upon their meeting, Dongqing expressed profound regret, apologizing to Shiyi. Shiyi reassured her, dismissing the need for apologies and urging her to rise. Dongqing then revealed a secret she had harbored: since entering the Xu mansion, she had developed inappropriate feelings for Xu Lingyi, admitting her love for him. Shiyi was stunned. Dongqing confessed her affection for Xu Lingyi but lamented that he only had eyes for Shiyi, never noticing her.

She admitted to secretly keeping his belt as a keepsake and pleaded with Shiyi to fulfill her desire to become Xu Lingyi's concubine, promising unwavering obedience and no contention. Shiyi, deeply shocked and visibly distraught, struggled to comprehend Dongqing's confession, as she had always believed she understood her maid. Amber, witnessing Shiyi's despair, tried to console her. Shiyi expressed her dilemma, torn between the fact that Dongqing coveted Xu Lingyi and her reluctance to see Dongqing sold off.

She feared that if Dongqing became a concubine, their bond would be forever fractured by shared love for the same man, inevitably leading to future conflicts of interest. Amber, sensing Shiyi's deep unhappiness, remarked on how she missed Shiyi's former carefree and vibrant self from Xianling Pavilion, contrasting it with her current subdued and mournful state.

She urged Shiyi not to yield, reminding her of her past courage in controlling her destiny, even to the extent of escaping marriage, and lamenting how Shiyi had seemingly lost her spirit since marrying into the Xu family. Amber then sought out Ou Yanxing, informing him of Xu Lingyi's imminent decision to take Dongqing as a concubine. She described Shiyi's immense distress and Xu Lingyi's inability to prevent it, despite his comforting words.

Amber implored Ou Yanxing to help Shiyi, who she believed had known no peace since her marriage. Ou Yanxing admitted he could not interfere in the Xu family's internal affairs, but Amber countered that his assistance would be possible if Shiyi were to leave the family, revealing Shiyi possessed a divorce agreement personally signed by Xu Lingyi. Shiyi met with Ou Yanxing, who apologized for inadvertently causing her trouble.

Shiyi, however, insisted he bore no blame, stating that her predicament was inevitable. She confided that she had known what awaited her upon marrying into the Xu family, and despite her naive hope of changing her circumstances, she found herself trapped. Ou Yanxing pressed her about her intentions, questioning if she would truly compromise with Great Madam Xu. Shiyi admitted her reluctance but saw it as the only way to protect Dongqing.

Ou Yanxing asserted that Shiyi possessed greater ambitions than to be confined to household affairs, arguing that such a compromise would waste her talents and unfulfilled wishes. He offered to help her leave the Xu mansion, assuring her of his purely altruistic motives: to help her escape to a life of freedom, like a fish in the vast sea or a bird soaring in the sky.

Amber strongly supported Ou Yanxing's proposition, emphasizing that Shiyi would never find peace remaining in the Xu mansion. Shiyi, deeply conflicted, requested more time to deliberate. Meanwhile, Concubine Qin learned of Shiyi and Ou Yanxing's meeting, smirking as she anticipated an unfolding drama. When Xu Lingyi inquired about Shiyi's whereabouts, a servant informed him that Shiyi had gone out with Amber. Xu Lingyi later confronted Shiyi after finding a note from Ou Yanxing.

Shiyi openly admitted to meeting him, claiming it was for an urgent matter. Xu Lingyi chastised her for defying family wishes and neglecting her status as Marquis Yongping's wife. Shiyi, no longer restraining herself, retorted that they only wanted her as a tool for procreation, household management, and obedience, declaring she was willing to give up the title.

She accused them of constantly forcing choices upon her without regard for her feelings and instructed Amber to pack their belongings, intending to leave Xu mansion and him. Xu Lingyi reminded her that she could not leave as she pleased and that he had previously given her a divorce agreement. He ordered Zhaoying to retrieve it, but it could not be found.

Enraged, Xu Lingyi then confined Shiyi to her room in the Western Lateral Court, forbidding her from leaving without his explicit permission. The Great Madam, upon hearing of Shiyi's confinement, commented that Shiyi had brought constant trouble to the family and that her temper needed to be curbed. At the Ou Family mansion, Ou Lixing spoke with his wife, confident that their plans were nearing completion, having successfully "hooked the fish."

He instructed his men to maintain surveillance on the Xu family. His wife expressed her joy for his impending success but clarified that for her, his safety was paramount, not the position of family master. She assured him of her unwavering presence by his side. Meanwhile, Amber, desperate after Shiyi's confinement, worried how Shiyi could meet Ou Yanxing.

She sought Concubine Qin's help, revealing that Xu Lingyi had written a divorce agreement but then prevented Shiyi from leaving, which Amber viewed as intentional cruelty. Amber pleaded with Concubine Qin, stressing that Shiyi would not find happiness if she remained in the Xu family. Concubine Qin hesitated but then agreed to help Shiyi escape, warning that once Shiyi left, she could never return. Amber affirmed Shiyi's resolve not to look back.

A fire was then set in Shiyi's courtyard, creating a diversion that drew the guards away. Shiyi, seizing the opportunity, retrieved and signed the divorce agreement, then fled the mansion with Amber. Outside, a carriage awaited them, driven by Ou Yanxing. Xu Lingyi, alerted to Shiyi's departure, furiously rode after them and quickly intercepted their carriage. Shiyi faced him, stating she had signed the divorce agreement and their ties were severed.

Xu Lingyi insisted she could not leave without his permission. Ou Yanxing intervened, reminding Xu Lingyi that Shiyi was now a free woman and urging him to respect her. Xu Lingyi, warning Ou Yanxing that he would not be so lenient this time, prepared to attack him, prompting Shiyi to try and stop him. As Xu Lingyi moved to strike, Ou Lixing suddenly appeared with a large contingent of armed men.

He taunted Xu Lingyi, revealing his long-held plot, and expressed mock surprise that Xu Lingyi would even attack his own brother, Ou Yanxing. Ou Lixing, declaring that a true leader disregards minor details, disowned Ou Yanxing as unworthy of the Ou family, stating he was merely eliminating a "black sheep." Ou Yanxing, shocked by his brother's cold bloodedness, reminded Ou Lixing of their familial bond.

Ou Lixing retorted that if Ou Yanxing had remained outside in business, he would have been left alone, but his return and opposition sealed his fate. Xu Lingyi confronted Ou Lixing, warning that killing imperial officials would bring severe retribution upon the Ou family from the Emperor.

Ou Lixing scoffed, revealing his meticulously crafted cover story: that Ou Yanxing and Shiyi had eloped, Xu Lingyi had pursued them in a fit of rage, and all three had perished in a tragic love triangle, a tale that would soon spread throughout the capital.

Shiyi, horrified, pieced together Ou Lixing's full scheme: to eliminate her and prevent the investigation into Concubine Lv's death, remove Xu Lingyi, a formidable enemy of the Ou family, and finally, get rid of his own brother, Ou Yanxing, a rival for the heir apparent title—a truly "three birds with one stone" plot. Shiyi then directly accused Ou Lixing of killing her mother, Concubine Lv.

Ou Lixing, with chilling arrogance, admitted that Concubine Lv had indeed seen something she should not have, confirming he had silenced her. Just as Ou Lixing ordered his men to attack, Duke Wei, Ren Kun, arrived with his forces, turning the tide. Xu Lingyi then revealed Ou Lixing's grave error in trying to use Xu Lingyi's own maid in his conspiracy. In a flashback, the intricate trap orchestrated by Xu Lingyi and Shiyi was revealed.

Following Dongqing's tearful confession to Shiyi, in which Dongqing also revealed that Amber had prompted her to make this false confession, Shiyi, who still trusted Dongqing, and Xu Lingyi decided to play along and observe the situation without immediate action. Later, Ou Yanxing grew suspicious of Amber's persistent attempts to solicit his help and confided in Xu Lingyi, affirming his belief that Xu Lingyi would never hurt Shiyi by taking Dongqing as a concubine.

Both Ou Yanxing and Xu Lingyi thus realized Amber had been manipulated by the true mastermind, leading them to set a trap for Ou Lixing, working together to capture him. Back in the present, Ou Lixing, seeing his plan unravel, confronted Ou Yanxing, baselessly accusing him of colluding with the Xu family to frame Ou Lixing.

Ou Yanxing sincerely stated he never wished to harm his brother or vie for power, hoping until the very last moment that Ou Lixing was not truly involved. He lamented that Ou Lixing had brought this desperate situation upon himself.

Ou Lixing dismissed his brother's words, questioning why he had abandoned his carefree life to return to the Ou family, repeatedly appeared before their father, and reminded their father of how he had wronged their mother, all to turn their father against him. Ou Yanxing insisted that Ou Lixing's own actions had alienated their father. Ou Lixing, enraged, swore to kill Ou Yanxing if he lived.

Ou Yanxing coldly replied that he would have no such chance, as human witnesses and material evidence now existed against him, ensuring he would face severe legal punishment. Ou Lixing, realizing his plan had crumbled, attempted to flee. However, Xu Lingyi's arrow struck his horse, causing Ou Lixing to fall violently. Knowing his end was near, Ou Lixing took an arrow and tragically ended his own life, muttering "my dear wife, I will break my promise."

Xu Lingyi's attendant, Linbo, confirmed Ou Lixing's death and inquired if Marquis Jingyuan might counter-charge, now that all direct witnesses were gone. Xu Lingyi believed he would not, to avoid facing accusations of rebellion. Xu Lingyi then apologized to Shiyi, explaining he had intended to subdue Ou Lixing and bring him to justice, not for him to die.

Shiyi understood, acknowledging that Ou Lixing had brought this fate upon himself, and reflected that he was a principled man, tragically born into the wrong family. Upon their return to the Xu mansion, Great Madam expressed outrage over Shiyi's perceived "indecent" behavior, regretting ever allowing her into the family. Xu Lingyi intervened, explaining that Shiyi's departure was part of their deliberate plan, revealing that Ou Lixing had just died, having brought about his own destruction.

Great Madam then asked Shiyi for her final decision regarding the concubine matter. Xu Lingyi immediately interjected, declaring that Dongqing, as his maid, was his responsibility, and he would not sacrifice her life for any compromise. When Great Madam asked his own stance, he affirmed his support for Shiyi's decision as her husband. Great Madam stressed the importance of ancestral ethical rules, but Xu Lingyi countered that rules must evolve with changing times.

He pointed out that his own father and second brother had defied tradition to lift the sea ban, questioning if Great Madam believed their actions, or his own, were wrong. While Great Madam initially dismissed Xianling Pavilion as incomparable to the lofty act of lifting the sea ban, Xu Lingyi eloquently argued that Shiyi's efforts at the pavilion—aiding refugees, teaching skills, and resolving imperial concerns—were indeed for the good of the state and its people.

He challenged Great Madam to consider why Shiyi, simply for being a woman, must be bound by rigid conventions, and if such strictness truly benefited the Xu family's prosperity, especially when Shiyi had never neglected her household duties. Great Madam, visibly affected, asked if he thought she was wrong. Xu Lingyi reiterated that forcing Shiyi with Dongqing's fate was an error, despite Great Madam's intentions for the family's welfare.

Xu Lingyi then solemnly vowed, before his mother, that he would never take another concubine in his lifetime. Unexpectedly, Xu Lingkuan entered and, following Xu Lingyi's lead, also vowed to never take a concubine and remain devoted solely to Danyang. He defended Xu Lingyi, arguing that after so many sacrifices for the family, Xu Lingyi deserved to make a choice for himself, and that Great Madam should, in all reason, listen to him.

Danyang then stepped forward, reminding Great Madam how Shiyi, despite being stripped of her household authority and becoming the capital's laughingstock, never complained. She recounted Shiyi's selfless act of selling her dowry to save the Xu family during the moldy rice crisis, her crucial role in Zhun's recovery, her uncovering of the former madam's death, and her charitable work at Xianling Pavilion, which brought honor to the family.

Danyang questioned if, after all these contributions, Shiyi could not be allowed to pursue the life she desired, suggesting Great Madam was being overly demanding. Danyang concluded by proposing that since Ou Yanxing had withdrawn from Xianling Pavilion, Shiyi should be permitted to continue her work there. Great Madam, after a moment of reflection, conceded that she might indeed have been mistaken.

She admitted that she had never truly opposed Shiyi's work at Xianling Pavilion, only fearing she would be exploited. Now, witnessing Shiyi and Xu Lingyi's unity and the Ou family's self-inflicted demise, she had no further concerns. Shiyi gratefully assured Great Madam that she considered the Xu family her home and would never act against its interests. Danyang further offered her assistance, vowing to help Shiyi manage the Xu mansion as a family member and seeking Great Madam's consent. Finally, Great Madam relented, allowing them to proceed as they wished.

Episode 42 Recap

As Shiyi and Xu Lingyi watched the moonlight, Shiyi considered tearing up the Divorce Agreement, but Xu Lingyi stopped her, stating that keeping it would serve as a constant reminder to cherish their present. Shiyi also shared a dream of her mother, and Xu Lingyi reassured her that with her mother's killer brought to justice, her spirit could rest, promising to always be by Shiyi's side.

The following day, Dongqing confronted Amber in the woodshed, demanding to know why Amber had used her to harm Shiyi. Amber asserted she never intended to hurt Shiyi, only to help her leave the Xu family and live freely. Amber had mistakenly believed Dongqing was infatuated with Xu Lingyi and thought her actions would fulfill Dongqing’s desires.

Dongqing clarified that she had no such feelings for Xu Lingyi, revealing she had taken his belt only to learn Shiyi’s embroidery techniques, intending to make a similar belt for Lin Bo, the man she truly admired. Dongqing accused Amber of colluding with the Ou family, but Amber denied this, stating she simply couldn’t bear to see Shiyi make compromises in the Xu family, believing Xu Lingyi to be a heartless man undeserving of Shiyi.

Shiyi and Xu Lingyi, having overheard the conversation from outside, entered the woodshed. Xu Lingyi questioned Amber’s accusations. Amber then revealed that Concubine Tong was her older sister, accusing Xu Lingyi and Yuanniang of causing her sister’s death. Xu Lingyi explained that although he was intoxicated the night Concubine Tong came to him, nothing improper occurred. He recounted how Yuanniang had informed his mother the next morning, insisting that Concubine Tong be made a concubine.

Xu Lingyi reluctantly agreed to protect Concubine Tong’s reputation, although he had suspected a conspiracy between Yuanniang and Concubine Tong, and had tried to ascertain if Concubine Tong had any unspoken difficulties, but she remained silent. With the truth revealed, Shiyi defended Amber, whose actions stemmed from a misunderstanding and a desire for Shiyi’s well-being, pleading with Xu Lingyi not to inform Great Madam.

Xu Lingyi, while showing leniency regarding punishment, declared that Amber’s betrayal had put the entire Xu family in grave danger, and ordered her to leave the Xu mansion immediately. Amber, feeling she had no place left, tearfully bid farewell to Shiyi, who offered her refuge at Xianling Pavilion. Before leaving, Amber revealed she had discovered her sister’s embroidered handkerchief at Concubine Qin’s residence, implicating Concubine Qin in the events. Meanwhile, Ou Lixing’s body was returned to the Ou family.

Despite Marquis Jingyuan’s fury, Ou Lixing had brought elite assassins out of the city—private troops that indicated treason—forcing the Ou family to suppress the matter. Young Madam Ou was consumed by hatred for Ou Yanxing, believing he had conspired with Xu Lingyi to kill Ou Lixing, unfairly gaining everything Ou Lixing had worked for. Elsewhere, Lin Bo sought out Dongqing, apologizing for his previous misunderstandings. Dongqing threw a half-embroidered belt at him, confirming her anger.

Lin Bo confessed his love and desire to marry her. Dongqing, still fuming, produced the broken jade hairpin he had earlier shattered, demanding he restore it. Lin Bo was at a loss, but Zhaoying, understanding Dongqing’s true feelings, advised him that she wasn’t truly asking for the hairpin to be fixed, but rather for him to appease her and mend their relationship. Xu Lingyi and Shiyi then set another trap.

Lin Bo reported to Xu Lingyi that Wang Jiubao had sent good news, implying he was willing to surrender. Concubine Qin, who had been secretly listening, prepared to leave the mansion. Lin Bo and Zhaoying followed her, anticipating her meeting with Young Madam Ou. To their surprise, it was Marquis Jingyuan who arrived. He promised Concubine Qin all that Ou Lixing had offered, including sending her to Fujian and providing her with an orphaned child.

In return, Concubine Qin disclosed Wang Jiubao’s intention to surrender and all the tasks Ou Lixing had assigned her. Upon receiving the information, Marquis Jingyuan furiously condemned Concubine Qin, blaming her for his son's death. Suddenly, Concubine Qin experienced severe abdominal pain, realizing the wine she had just consumed was poisoned. She shattered her cup to alert Lin Bo and Zhaoying, who rushed to her aid, calling for a physician and bringing her back to the Xu mansion.

Near death, Concubine Qin painfully expressed her deep-seated grievances. She lamented Xu Lingyi’s neglect despite being his concubine. She confessed her hatred for Great Madam, who had made her drink contraception decoction, which caused her a miscarriage and rendered her infertile, leading her to lose her child and her ability to conceive again. She expressed her disdain for the Xu family, who, in her eyes, constantly belittled her and denied her the right to be a mother.

She also directed her bitterness toward Shiyi, feeling used as a pawn in power struggles, especially after believing she would be allowed to raise Jie, only to have the child given to Second Madam. Xu Lingyi clarified that it was his decision to have Second Madam raise Jie, as she was the most suitable. Concubine Qin scoffed, asserting that the Xu family considered her too lowly to be a mother.

Great Madam, with tears in her eyes, apologized, explaining she had feared a future legal wife would trouble Concubine Qin over a child, never realizing the immense harm she caused. Xu Lingyi also apologized for his neglect. Concubine Qin admitted she had waited for this apology for many years, but declared she would not forgive them, stating that their debts were now settled. Shiyi approached Concubine Qin, acknowledging her deep suffering but highlighting that her pursuit of happiness was misguided.

Concubine Qin, recognizing Shiyi’s good heart, revealed a crucial secret: she had been present when Concubine Lv, Shiyi’s mother, was killed by Ou Lixing’s men at the temple. Concubine Qin then expressed her final wish, hoping that in her next life, she would be born into an ordinary family, find a loving husband, and raise several delightful children, unlike her current existence, which felt like an endless, lonely confinement within the marquis’s mansion.

Episode 43 Recap

Xu Lingyi grappled with profound guilt over Concubine Qin's death, believing his actions of taking her and others as concubines had inadvertently led to their tragedies. Shiyi, however, comforted him, reassuring him that no one could foretell such events and urging him to ensure Concubine Qin received a proper burial, which Xu Lingyi solemnly promised to arrange. Meanwhile, Marquis Jingyuan, no longer trusting Wang Jiubao due to the information provided by Concubine Qin, decided to act preemptively to eliminate him.

All of this was within Xu Lingyi's plan; he had already warned Wang Jiubao to be on guard, anticipating Marquis Jingyuan's move. Xu Lingyi had dispatched agents to Fujian to warn Wang Jiubao and arranged for Lin Bo’s secret assistance to ensure Wang Jiubao's safety and eventual defection to the imperial court. Later, Lin Bo presented a repaired hairpin to Dongqing, though it still bore visible cracks.

He earnestly confessed that while he caused the cracks on the hairpin, the deeper cracks in his heart were caused by her. He boldly proposed marriage, promising to mend those emotional wounds for the rest of his life and vowing never to marry another woman, even contemplating becoming a monk if she refused. Dongqing, though flustered by his directness, did not explicitly accept but felt sweet joy in her heart, eventually leaving with the hairpin.

Shortly thereafter, before his departure for Fujian, Lin Bo sought out Shiyi to formally request Dongqing's hand in marriage. When Shiyi asked Dongqing directly, Dongqing, after a moment of hesitation, confirmed her willingness. Shiyi, acknowledging Dongqing’s feelings, gave her consent to the union and granted Dongqing a day's leave to properly bid farewell to Lin Bo before his journey.

Wuniang, heavily pregnant, was aware of their family's modest means, though Qian Ming took pains to shield her from the full extent of their severe financial strain as he worried about impending expenses. He instructed his servant to prioritize Wuniang’s comfort and find money without her explicit knowledge of the dire situation.

Soon after, Qian Ming encountered his friend, Qin Zhiyuan, who excitedly presented a seemingly lucrative business opportunity: an acquaintance from the south urgently required a vast quantity of embroidered goods, promising substantial profits. Qian Ming, seeing this as a solution to their financial woes, eagerly agreed to discuss it with Shiyi. Qin Zhiyuan offered to manage the logistics.

Shiyi, enthusiastic about expanding Xianling Pavilion's reach to the south and benefiting more embroiderers, proposed opening a new branch in Yuhang and recruiting local skilled embroiderers to meet the large demand, a plan Qian Ming eagerly supported. However, this seemingly beneficial endeavor was a meticulously planned trap. The Fujian Administration Commission soon reported to the capital that Xianling Pavilion was involved in smuggling with pirates, possessing both material evidence and pirate testimonies.

The Emperor, enraged, ordered Xianling Pavilion seized and a thorough investigation by the three judicial offices. Despite Xu Lingyi’s attempts to vouch for Xianling Pavilion’s integrity, Grand Secretary Chen affirmed the gravity of the case, deeming it a matter of national security that allowed no favoritism. Shuntian Prefecture Office officials arrived at the Xu mansion to arrest Shiyi, accusing Xianling Pavilion of collusion and smuggling. Shiyi, identifying herself as the owner, and Master Jian, were both taken into custody.

Xu Lingyi arrived shortly after, reassuring Shiyi of his unwavering trust and promising to protect her from any injustice, while sternly warning the officials against harming her. Shiyi felt deeply touched by Xu Lingyi's trust. Distraught, Wuniang rushed to the Xu mansion, informing them that Xianling Pavilion had been seized due to alleged collusion with pirates and smuggling.

She relayed Qian Ming's prior discovery that Qin Zhiyuan had been unusually promoted to an official position in Fujian despite lacking the necessary qualifications, leading her to suspect Marquis Jingyuan had exploited Qin Zhiyuan to ensnare Qian Ming in the scheme. Soon after, Qian Ming himself was apprehended by officials, but not before urging someone to inform Xu Lingyi at the Xu family mansion.

At the Xu mansion, Wuniang further explained that Qian Ming had confessed the seized embroideries were indeed his doing, but he maintained that Marquis Jingyuan had engineered the entire plot, using Qin Zhiyuan to deceive him. Duke Wei arrived at the Xu mansion, informing Xu Lingyi that the Ministry of Justice possessed conclusive evidence, including Xianling Pavilion's embroideries, transaction documents, seals, and the corroborating testimonies of arrested pirates, all pointing to smuggling.

He cautioned Xu Lingyi that the Emperor was now suspicious, hence the joint trial by the three judicial offices. Xu Lingyi acknowledged that Qin Zhiyuan was the crucial link, but his distant posting in Fujian, orchestrated by Marquis Jingyuan, made it difficult to locate him before the trial. Duke Wei assured Xu Lingyi that he would deploy his own contacts in Fujian to find Qin Zhiyuan and bring him to the capital, even if it meant resorting to extreme measures.

Qian Ming’s wife, Wuniang, present during this discussion, tearfully blamed herself and her husband for falling into the trap, but Xu Lingyi firmly reassured her that he would secure their release. The Xu family, particularly Xu Lingyi's mother, grew deeply worried about Shiyi's safety and potential suffering in prison.

Xu Lingyi attempted to visit Shiyi, but Ministry of Justice official Li barred him, citing Xu Lingyi's involvement in the case and urging him to reconsider, though Xu Lingyi insisted on impartial judgment. Inside the prison, Shiyi, realizing the magnitude of the conspiracy against her and the Xu family, urged Master Jian to claim sole responsibility for the business deal, insisting Master Jian knew nothing.

During her interrogation, Shiyi steadfastly denied any involvement in smuggling, maintaining she conducted legitimate transactions and that Xu Lingyi was entirely uninvolved. Despite officials presenting physical evidence and pirate testimonies, Shiyi insisted she was framed, challenging their attempts to implicate Xu Lingyi. Marquis Jingyuan then arrived, pressing the official to secure a conviction against Xu Lingyi.

He questioned how a mere woman could orchestrate such a large smuggling operation, subtly suggesting Xu Lingyi as the true mastermind, and warned against the Emperor showing leniency to Xu Lingyi in the future. The official promised his full cooperation. Master Jian was then brought in. Shiyi tried to shield her, reiterating Master Jian's innocence. However, Master Jian, determined to protect Shiyi whom she regarded as family, took all the blame, even under severe torture.

She insisted she handled the deal alone with legitimate merchants and that neither Xu Lingyi nor Shiyi were involved, despite the officials' skepticism regarding her ability to contact pirates. Master Jian urged Shiyi to live and continue the embroidery tradition, causing Shiyi to plead with her to endure. As rumors of Xianling Pavilion’s seizure and Shiyi’s arrest for smuggling spread, Amber grew anxious to gather information. However, she was intercepted and brought back by Young Madam Ou’s people.

Young Madam Ou confronted Amber, demanding to know if her own husband, Ou Lixing, had been killed by Lin Shixian (Ou Yanxing) and Xu Lingyi. Fortunately, Lin Shixian was alerted to Amber's capture. He rushed to the firewood room where Amber was being held and, asserting his future authority within the Ou family, rescued her from Young Madam Ou’s grasp, warning her people not to harm Amber again.

Amber tearfully implored Lin Shixian to rescue Shiyi, firmly believing her to be framed, possibly by Lin Shixian's own father, Marquis Jingyuan. Lin Shixian, acknowledging the daunting challenge posed by the seemingly irrefutable evidence, promised to find a solution and vowed that if his father truly orchestrated the plot, he would not stand idly by while Shiyi faced a death sentence.

Xu Lingyi sought an audience with Grand Secretary Chen, asserting that the case was a meticulously orchestrated frame-up designed to incriminate the Xu family through Xianling Pavilion. Grand Secretary Chen acknowledged the seemingly irrefutable evidence but confessed the difficulty in swaying the Emperor and officials without compelling counter-evidence. Despite his personal belief in Xu Lingyi’s integrity, he urged Xu Lingyi to be pragmatic.

Xu Lingyi pleaded for more time, vowing to uncover the conspiracy's flaws and exonerate Shiyi and Xianling Pavilion. Grand Secretary Chen then shifted the discussion to the larger political landscape, highlighting the Emperor’s increasing desire to lift the sea ban due to rampant piracy and Xu Lingyi’s crucial role in this initiative. He warned that Shiyi’s conviction would inevitably implicate Xu Lingyi, jeopardizing his ability to spearhead the sea ban.

To resolve this, Grand Secretary Chen presented Xu Lingyi with a memorial for divorce, instructing him to submit it at the joint trial. By publicly divorcing Shiyi and attributing sole responsibility for the smuggling to her, Xu Lingyi could absolve the Xu family and ensure the smooth progression of the sea ban, a move Grand Secretary Chen implied was also the Emperor's subtle wish.

Torn between his wife and his duty to the state, Xu Lingyi expressed deep reluctance, fearing he would become a betrayer. Grand Secretary Chen reiterated the importance of sacrificing the lesser for the greater good, urging him not to let years of effort go to waste.

As this dilemma unfolded, Zhaoying arrived with critical updates: Warden Jiang reported that Master Jian had been severely tortured, likely leading to a forced confession, but Shiyi remained safe, spared from torture due to Warden Jiang's discreet assistance. Xu Lingyi immediately ordered medicine for Master Jian. Furthermore, Zhaoying revealed that while their agents in Fujian had located Qin Zhiyuan, he had been found dead upon their arrival, confirming Marquis Jingyuan's meticulous and ruthless pre-emptive planning.

Episode 44 Recap

Lin Shixian, now identified as Ou Yanxing, secretly entered Marquis Jingyuan's study, where he discovered a letter penned by Marquis Jingyuan's cousin. The letter revealed Marquis Jingyuan's true machinations: he had exploited his cousin's authority to control most of Fujian's military affairs and orchestrated the smuggling in collusion with pirates, even framing Xianling Pavilion for the crime. Marquis Jingyuan then entered, acknowledging he had deliberately left the letter for Ou Yanxing to find.

He explained that the Ou family's long-standing animosity towards the Xu family stemmed from the latter's advocacy for lifting the sea ban. Should the ban be lifted, the Ou family's vast interests would vanish, and the lives of hundreds within the family would be at risk. Marquis Jingyuan asserted that he must eliminate Xu Lingyi to protect his family.

Ou Yanxing, horrified, questioned if his father truly understood that this path could lead to a capital crime punishable by the extermination of their entire family. Marquis Jingyuan countered, daring Ou Yanxing to report him, warning that such an act would lead to the miserable deaths of himself, his cousin, and every member of the Ou family. He then appealed to Ou Yanxing's emotions, reminding him that his brother Lixing was dead, leaving Ou Yanxing as his only son.

He emphasized that the Ou family was Ou Yanxing's blood, the only entity truly deserving of his complete dedication and protection, questioning why he still cared for Shiyi, who he claimed had caused Lixing's death. Meanwhile, Master Jian, critically wounded, showed no signs of recovery despite Xu Lingyi secretly arranging for high-grade medicine to be sent to her. In prison, Shiyi insisted on seeing only Ou Yanxing. Marquis Jingyuan, confident in Ou Yanxing's loyalty, permitted the visit.

Once at the prison gate, Shiyi inquired about Master Jian's condition, learning she remained in a coma due to serious wounds and the dingy, damp environment, which was unsuitable for recovery. Ou Yanxing admitted his father's guilt in the matter. Shiyi then asked about the Xu family's situation, which Ou Yanxing confirmed was dire, with his father, the Qiao family, and other officials submitting petitions to impeach Xu Lingyi.

Ou Yanxing told Shiyi that the evidence against her was conclusive, and if she were proven innocent, the verdict would be reached at the next joint trial. He added that the Minister of Justice, who would be the presiding judge, firmly believed Xu Lingyi was involved.

He warned that if Xianling Pavilion and Shiyi were convicted, Shiyi would likely face a death sentence as the main culprit, inevitably implicating the Xu family, and even Xu Lingyi's outstanding services would not shield him from public condemnation. Shiyi, having made up her mind, then asked Ou Yanxing for a crucial favor, which he readily promised to fulfill, affirming her as a trustworthy friend.

During the joint trial of the three judicial offices, the Minister of Justice pressed Shiyi on Xu Lingyi's involvement. Shiyi steadfastly declared Xu Lingyi had no connection to the case. However, Marquis Jingyuan had a contingency plan: he presented Zhang, an embroidery girl from Xianling Pavilion, who, under duress and torture, falsely testified that Xu Lingyi frequently visited Xianling Pavilion and was the mastermind behind the embroidery smuggling. Shiyi, distressed, tried to intervene, accusing Zhang of lying under coercion.

The Grand Secretary Chen, noting the suspicious nature of Zhang's wounds, suggested Xu Lingyi be given a chance to defend himself, initially hoping Xu Lingyi would present a Divorce Agreement. Instead, Xu Lingyi vehemently denied his wife's involvement, highlighting her philanthropic work and questioning why he would advocate for lifting the sea ban if he were involved in smuggling, suggesting the case was a ploy by ill-intentioned individuals against the Xu family.

Despite Xu Lingyi's compelling defense, Official Li maintained that the existing evidence was too strong. Just as the case seemed lost, Ou Yanxing arrived, presenting the Divorce Agreement between Shiyi and Xu Lingyi, along with Xianling Pavilion's detailed account books. Shiyi dramatically announced that she was no longer Xu Lingyi's wife, confirming the divorce with Xu Lingyi's signature and fingerprint on the agreement.

The account books meticulously detailed every transaction, proving Xianling Pavilion's financial independence and absence of dealings with the Xu family. The officials verified the authenticity of both documents. Consequently, Grand Secretary Chen announced Xu Lingyi's exoneration from the smuggling charges. However, as the main culprit, Shiyi was sentenced to death and ordered to be executed three days later, pending the Emperor's final decree. Xu Lingyi visited Shiyi in her prison cell, and the couple shared a tearful embrace.

Shiyi expressed no regret for marrying him, explaining that she had admitted guilt to prevent her enemies from using her to threaten him or harm the Xu family. She believed this was choosing "the lesser of two evils," fearing that a prolonged trial would lead more Xianling Pavilion staff to testify against him.

She tearfully wished for them to be husband and wife again in the next life, having found true warmth and sincere love with him, a stark contrast to her previous life as a neglected concubine's daughter. Xu Lingyi, however, refused to accept defeat, proclaiming that he would never abandon her, just as she had not abandoned him in the past.

Upon learning of Shiyi's sacrifice for the Xu family, Xu Old Madam was overcome with deep remorse for her past harsh treatment of Shiyi, acknowledging Shiyi's filial piety and unwavering loyalty despite the suffering she had endured under the rigid family rules. With only three days until the execution, Xu Lingyi resolved to petition the Emperor, and Xu Old Madam insisted on accompanying him, leveraging her status as a noblewoman of the Second Standard Rank.

Xu Lingyi, Xu Old Madam, Xu Lingkuan, and Princess Danyang knelt outside the palace, begging for imperial mercy. Grand Secretary Chen initially advised against their public plea, fearing it would reignite the Emperor's suspicions regarding Xu Lingyi's innocence. However, Xu Lingyi stood firm, asserting that he could not abandon Shiyi, understanding that the case was a direct assault on him and the policy of lifting the sea ban.

He urged Grand Secretary Chen to see that only by apprehending the true mastermind could the danger be eliminated. Moved by their unwavering resolve, Grand Secretary Chen agreed to intercede on their behalf. The Emperor, swayed by their persistent pleas, issued an oral instruction, granting a one-month postponement of Shiyi's execution.

However, he warned that if Xu Lingyi failed to find conclusive evidence within that month, Shiyi would still face execution by the Ministry of Justice, and Xu Lingyi himself would be punished for the crime of deceiving His Majesty. Xu Lingyi, accompanied by Lin Bo and other guards, sought out Wang Jiubao. They found Wang Jiubao in peril, pursued by assassins dispatched by Marquis Jingyuan.

Lin Bo bravely held back the attackers, allowing Xu Lingyi to escape with the severely injured Wang Jiubao. Despite his critical condition, Wang Jiubao initially distrusted Xu Lingyi, accusing him of orchestrating the pursuit. Xu Lingyi explained that Marquis Jingyuan was their common enemy and that his own wife was facing execution due to Marquis Jingyuan's schemes. He stressed his urgent need to save Shiyi and the people along the coast.

Before succumbing to his wounds, Wang Jiubao handed Xu Lingyi a crucial piece of evidence, acquired at the cost of many lives. Marquis Jingyuan's assassins, failing to find the evidence on Wang Jiubao's body, launched an all-out manhunt for Xu Lingyi. The Grand Coordinator of Fujian, aligned with Marquis Jingyuan, falsely reported to the Emperor that Xu Lingyi had been caught colluding with pirates in Fujian.

Enraged, the Emperor ordered Xu Lingyi's immediate capture and, as a further punitive measure, moved Shiyi's execution forward to ten days later. Furthermore, the Xu family mansion was sealed, with no one permitted to enter or exit until Xu Lingyi was apprehended. Erniang visited Shiyi in prison, a visit surprisingly permitted by the Minister of Justice, who seemed to be allowing it for eavesdropping purposes. Shiyi, aware of being listened to, subtly conveyed a coded message to Erniang, mentioning Zhenxing.

She told Erniang that the truth behind Xu Lingyi and Wang Jiubao's meeting was still unknown, but the fact that Xu Lingyi hadn't been captured meant he was still fighting to uncover the full truth. She expressed deep concern about the perilous journey Xu Lingyi faced on his way back to the capital. Erniang later reported the ambiguous conversation to Zhenxing.

Pondering Shiyi's veiled words and specific gestures, Zhenxing deduced that the evidence to clear Shiyi's name was with Xu Lingyi, and it was detrimental to Marquis Jingyuan, explaining the extreme danger Xu Lingyi faced. Combining Shiyi's concern for Xu Lingyi's perilous return with a gesture involving an oil lamp and a stone, Zhenxing interpreted the message: an oil lamp illuminates its surroundings but leaves the space directly beneath it in shadow.

He concluded this meant "dangerous places can be safe and tricky to detect," implying that for Xu Lingyi, the safest place might paradoxically be the most dangerous one, where he would be least expected.

Episode 45 (Ending) Recap

Marquis Jingyuan, frustrated by his inability to locate Xu Lingyi as he secretly returned to the capital, focused his efforts on the Xu mansion. His subordinates reported that despite extensive searches and the mistaken killing of many innocent people, Xu Lingyi's whereabouts remained unknown. Meanwhile, Great Madam Xu, fiercely protective of her family, attempted to leave the Xu mansion, declaring she would rather die than allow her family to suffer injustice while awaiting the unjust execution.

Marquis Jingyuan, however, was already setting up ambushes, instructing his men to guard all paths leading to the Imperial Palace, confident that Xu Lingyi would be intercepted there. As Xu Lingyi made his way, disguised among others, he was nearly apprehended by Marquis Jingyuan's forces. Fortunately, Duke Wei intervened, boldly asserting that Xu Lingyi was merely a runaway from his own military camp and demanding to take him back, even challenging an Imperial Censor's authority.

Duke Wei then guided Xu Lingyi to safety, explaining that Luo Zhenxing had sought his help after Shiyi shrewdly predicted Xu Lingyi would try to infiltrate the capital disguised as one of Marquis Jingyuan's killers. This foresight allowed Duke Wei to deploy his own men to watch Marquis Jingyuan's territory, thus learning of the plot and arriving in time. Duke Wei urged Xu Lingyi to hurry to the palace, reminding him that Shiyi's execution was imminent.

Xu Lingyi's path was still fraught with danger, with Marquis Jingyuan's men swarming the area around the Imperial Palace. It was Ou Yanxing who provided crucial assistance, helping Xu Lingyi evade his pursuers. Despite his aid, Ou Yanxing initially hesitated, confessing that letting Xu Lingyi go would mean the downfall of his father and the entire Ou family. However, faced with the difficult choice, Ou Yanxing ultimately chose to allow Xu Lingyi to escape, bravely drawing away the pursuers himself.

At the execution ground, a large crowd had gathered, many expressing sympathy for Shiyi, recalling her past kindnesses in providing disaster relief. Great Madam Xu, accompanied by the Xu family, arrived and fearlessly confronted the official in charge. She vehemently declared Shiyi's innocence and insisted that no one could execute her without stepping over her dead body, even if it meant risking the entire Xu family.

Danyang, too, expressed her unwavering belief that Xu Lingyi would arrive in time to save Shiyi. Great Madam Xu passionately appealed to the bystanders, questioning the justice of persecuting the faithful and upright, and warning the officials of eternal infamy should they proceed. Despite the official's repeated orders to clear the area and execute Shiyi, the public's protest grew louder, and Great Madam Xu continued to stand firm, assuring Shiyi that Xu Lingyi would come.

When Shiyi finally regained consciousness, she found herself in her bed at the Xu mansion, bewildered. Xu Lingyi, holding her hand, gently reassured her that she was safe, having been saved at the last moment. He revealed that he had delivered the crucial evidence to the Emperor, who had immediately remitted Shiyi's death sentence. The truth had prevailed, and everything was now settled. As he embraced her tightly, Xu Lingyi shared the joyous news: Shiyi was pregnant.

Overwhelmed with relief and happiness, Shiyi could only express gratitude to Heaven. Following Xu Lingyi's presentation of evidence, the Ou family faced severe consequences. Marquis Jingyuan, upon seeing the imperial troops, conceded his defeat. Later, Shiyi visited Ou Yanxing in prison. She expressed her profound gratitude for his assistance, acknowledging that without his help, she and the Xu family might not have escaped their dire situation.

Ou Yanxing confessed that he had possessed evidence of his father's collusion with Wang Jiubao long before, and had initially chosen to sacrifice Shiyi to protect his family, even admitting to pushing her towards the execution ground. However, when he learned that his father had indiscriminately killed innocent people while pursuing Xu Lingyi, he realized that familial loyalty could not supersede moral integrity.

He asserted that without a sense of right and wrong, one could not truly be human, and he could not stand by and watch his father continue down such a path. Shiyi reassured him of his innocence in his father's crimes, informing him that Xu Lingyi would report his meritorious exposure to the Emperor, which would lead to his eventual release.

Ou Yanxing, however, accepted his punishment, reflecting that despite his earlier belief that he was more suitable for Shiyi than Xu Lingyi due to their similar backgrounds, he now recognized Xu Lingyi's unwavering love and determination, which made him incomparable. He sincerely wished them happiness. An imperial edict swiftly decreed Marquis Jingyuan's fate: for colluding with coastal pirates and conspiring against the government, he was stripped of his title and sentenced to beheading, with his descendants forbidden from holding office.

His second son, Ou Yanxing, was pardoned from death due to his meritorious exposure of the crimes, but was exiled to the borderlands with the Ou family's women and children. As Marquis Jingyuan was led to his execution, he had a final, brief exchange with Ou Yanxing, regretting that his downfall stemmed from the expectations he had placed on his son. He simply told Ou Yanxing to take care on the arduous journey.

As the Ou family prepared for exile, Amber tearfully pleaded with Ou Yanxing to allow her to accompany him, declaring she cared for nothing else but being by his side. However, Ou Yanxing, now stripped of everything, gently but firmly refused, asserting that he had nothing to offer her and did not wish for her to suffer alongside him. Xu Lingyi brought Yu to visit Concubine Wen, acknowledging his past neglect.

He offered her a choice: she could remain in the Xu mansion, where she would be well provided for, or she could leave with ample financial support, even receiving assistance from him and Shiyi if she wished to pursue a business venture. Concubine Wen was deeply moved by Xu Lingyi's uncharacteristically gentle demeanor, admitting she was unsure of her future but grateful for the choices.

When she learned that Yu was to leave for Leshan to study, she expressed her desire to accompany him, a request Xu Lingyi graciously granted. Before departing, Concubine Wen came to bid farewell to Shiyi. Shiyi, showing no resentment for past grievances, wished her well and encouraged her and Yu to return to the mansion during holidays, emphasizing their family bond.

Concubine Wen, touched by Shiyi's generosity and understanding, acknowledged Shiyi's broad-mindedness and wished her and Xu Lingyi a lifetime of happiness together. Shiyi later visited Erniang, expressing gratitude for Erniang's visit during her imprisonment, believing it had saved both her and Xu Lingyi. She found Erniang upset with her stepson, Chengzu, who had been gambling and drinking with servants. Shiyi gently suggested that Chengzu, being young, might benefit from studying with Zhun at the academy, away from negative influences.

Erniang, ever proud, initially dismissed Shiyi's concern as meddling and sarcastically invoked "Jinlian," seeming to mock Shiyi. As Shiyi prepared to leave, Erniang, softening, called her back and offered her a special cup of Queshe green tea, a favorite of Shiyi's, which her maid had specifically sought out. Erniang playfully insisted it wasn't free, calling it Chengzu's tuition fee. Shiyi, recognizing Erniang's tough exterior masking a kind heart, subtly smiled as she savored the tea.

Back in the mansion, Shiyi practiced playing the zither, feigning clumsiness. Xu Lingyi, aware of her clever ploy, recognized her underlying skill and offered guidance. Shiyi revealed she knew that he had been a master zither player in his youth, but had stopped after his father's death. Xu Lingyi explained his decision to abandon leisure for the responsibility of protecting the Xu family as its patriarch.

Shiyi, however, gently persuaded him, arguing that suppressing his own desires was a form of self-punishment and that his late father and brother would surely wish for his happiness. Touched by her words and encouraged by her presence, Xu Lingyi played the zither for the first time in many years, his melodious strains filling the mansion and surprising everyone within.

In the first year of the Longqing Emperor's reign, a monumental policy shift occurred as the Emperor formally lifted the sea ban, adjusting overseas trade policies to allow private individuals to engage in foreign commerce. This pivotal moment, historically known as "Opening up in Reign of Longqing," heralded a new era of unprecedented trade and openness along China's southeast coast. Several years later, the Xu mansion brimmed with joy and festivity during the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Concubine Wen's son, Yu, had achieved great success in the provincial examinations. Xu Lingyi, seeking Shiyi, learned she was diligently preparing betrothal gifts for Zhun's future wife. Their young daughter, Nuan, eagerly ran to greet her father. As the family gathered for their celebratory feast, Great Madam Xu, instead of receiving the customary first toast, insisted it be given to Shiyi.

She proudly declared Xianling Pavilion's global renown, its expanded apprenticeships, and its successful overseas trade, noting the Emperor had even bestowed a plaque reading "Best Embroidery in the World." She proclaimed Shiyi and Master Jian the pride of all women. The second toast was raised to the prosperity of a harmonious family. Over the years, Shiyi's unwavering efforts had culminated in profound recognition.

An imperial edict was issued, formally bestowing upon Xu-Luo Shiyi, wife of Marquis Yongping, the esteemed title of First Standard Rank Madam. The edict praised her virtuous and kind-hearted nature, her honesty and faithfulness, her establishment of Xianling Pavilion, her efforts in recruiting disciples and advancing craftsmanship, and her diligent and independent character. Though Shiyi felt as if it were a dream, Xu Lingyi assured her that all her achievements were the result of her own talent and hard work.

Shiyi humbly disagreed, her eyes reflecting deep affection, as she asserted that without Xu Lingyi's selfless trust and unwavering support, all her tireless efforts would have been in vain. It was his boundless love, she realized, that had truly completed her life, leaving her with no regrets.