The Sword and The Brocade Episode 7 Recap
> The Sword and The Brocade 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.
