Jun Jiu Ling Recap, Plot, Synopsis

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Jun Jiu Ling Synopsis

Jun Jiu Ling Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

During the Tianyou era, Emperor Zhizong passed away, and his younger brother, Chu Rang, ascended the throne. Soon after, Princess Chu Jiuling, the late emperor's second daughter, was ordered to marry Lu Yunqi, the commander of the Wude Command. However, on her wedding day, Jiuling defiantly confronted Chu Rang in the palace hall, accusing him of regicide and usurpation.

She declared that she had uncovered the truth: her father was cruelly murdered by Chu Rang, evidenced by red strangulation marks on his neck, contradicting the Imperial Hospital's official report of a relapse of an old affliction. Her assassination attempt failed, and she was immediately imprisoned. Chu Rang, concerned about who might have incited Jiuling, learned from a eunuch that she refused to confess despite severe torture. The eunuch also reported that a servant girl named Bing'er had escaped.

Chu Rang speculated that Jiuling, being highly intelligent, likely sought death, understanding that her demise would prevent him from harming her simple-minded older sister, Jiuli, and underage younger brother, Jiurong, due to public sentiment. He revealed that he had ordered Lu Yunqi to marry Jiuling as a precaution. Confident she would not yield information, Chu Rang ordered her to be dealt with, stressing that no one should escape this time.

That night, just as Jiuling was being prepared for execution, her master, Doctor Jun Yingwen, infiltrated the prison and rescued her. Jun Yingwen's daughter, Jun Zhenzhen, selflessly offered to take Jiuling's place to ensure Chu Rang believed Jiuling was dead. While Zhenzhen remained in the prison cell, a fire was set to create the illusion of Jiuling's self-immolation. Lu Yunqi arrived later, reporting to Chu Rang that Jiuling had perished in the blaze.

Feigning sorrow, Chu Rang declared he would not pursue the matter further. Upon waking, Jiuling discovered that Doctor Jun Yingwen had used a secret prescription to alter her ruined face and voice. Overwhelmed by grief, she learned that Zhenzhen had indeed sacrificed herself. Doctor Jun explained that this drastic measure was necessary to convince Chu Rang of Jiuling's death, emphasizing that the Jun family was repaying the immense kindness shown to them by the late emperor.

Jiuling, still reeling from the loss, vowed to find Zhenzhen, but Doctor Jun urged her to live well and not betray Zhenzhen's sacrifice. Jiuling then revealed to her master that Bing'er, her father's maid-in-waiting, had secretly informed her that Chu Rang and Lu Yunqi had entered the palace just before her father's sudden death, engaging in a fierce argument with him. Bing'er had witnessed the strangulation marks on her father's neck, confirming Chu Rang's culpability.

Jiuling, burning with a desire for vengeance, resolved to live as Jun Zhenzhen, understanding that only by staying alive could she seek justice. She reflected on her past decision to marry Lu Yunqi, which was a calculated move to lower Chu Rang's guard and protect her siblings. Doctor Jun reassured her that her changed appearance was now a blessing in disguise, severing any connection to Princess Jiuling. Tragedy soon struck again.

While searching for a rare herb on a mountain, Doctor Jun Yingwen accidentally fell off a cliff. As he lay dying, Jiuling tried desperately to save him, but he knew it was futile. He entrusted her with the Jun family's heirloom jade pendant, reiterating that she was now Jun Zhenzhen. He then revealed a critical secret: a sealed note from the late emperor found within his personal letters.

This note concerned the murder of the previous emperor's father by the Beiqi people, a crime the late emperor suspected was linked to Chu Rang. Doctor Jun had been covertly investigating this at the late emperor's command, but his efforts were cut short when Chu Rang murdered the emperor. He believed these two royal murders were Chu Rang's Achilles' heel. Recognizing Jiuling's vulnerable position, he advised her against returning to the capital.

Instead, he instructed her to travel to Zezhou and seek refuge with the prosperous Fang family, Zhenzhen's maternal relatives, as it would provide both safety and an opportunity to investigate the truth. Following Doctor Jun's instructions, Jiuling traveled to the Biyunpo Inn, where she found Liu'er, a servant girl from the Jun family's old house in Runan. Liu'er was being held by the innkeeper, unable to pay her outstanding rent after her money pouch had been stolen.

Jiuling intervened, settling Liu'er's debt. Liu'er, unaware of Jiuling's true identity, joyfully mistook her for Miss Jun Zhenzhen. After an emotional reunion, Liu'er eagerly agreed to accompany Jiuling to Zezhou, despite expressing concern about the Fang family's merchant status. Jiuling, however, declared her indifference to status, prioritizing her mission. In Zezhou, the wealthy Fang family, known for their business acumen, welcomed the new arrivals. The family included the lively and pampered Fang Jinxiu and the gentle and sensible Fang Yuxiu.

Upon meeting Fang Cao, the old lady of the Fang family and Zhenzhen's maternal grandmother, Jiuling presented the jade pendant. Fang Cao was initially skeptical, and the mistress of the first household openly accused Jiuling of being a fraud seeking money. Jiuling patiently answered questions about her mother's passing and accurately described a specific jade bracelet Yuxian had cherished and was buried with.

This detail, along with Fang Yuxiu's plea for patience, swayed Fang Cao, who agreed to let Jiuling stay temporarily while they sent inquiries to Runan. Jiuling realized she needed to find a way to earn the Fang family's full trust. Life at the Fang family manor proved challenging due to Fang Jinxiu's constant provocations. One day, Fang Jinxiu criticized Jiuling for giving medical advice to Fang Cao. Liu'er, fiercely loyal, leapt to Jiuling's defense, leading to a heated argument.

Jiuling intervened, pulling Liu'er away and later advising her to be cautious and to discern good intentions from bad, regardless of how they were spoken. Later, Liu'er informed Jiuling that she had a bundle from Doctor Jun, containing an important document. Inside, Jiuling found a marriage contract between Jun Zhenzhen and a Mr. Ning. Liu'er was excited, knowing Mr. Ning was a highly sought-after bachelor.

Though she understood the advantageous nature of the marriage, Jiuling, living under Zhenzhen's identity, could not truly accept it. However, she decided the contract could serve as proof of her identity. At dinner, she presented the marriage contract to Fang Cao. Pleased, Fang Cao acknowledged Mr. Ning's noble reputation and intended to visit the Ning family to finalize the arrangement, despite Jiuling's hesitation.

The following day, Fang Jinxiu confronted Jiuling, revealing that Fang Cao had visited the Ning family but had been humiliated by Mrs. Ning, who rejected the marriage despite the elders' prior agreement. Fang Cao returned home ill from anger and anxiety. Resolved to cure Fang Cao's "heart illness with heart medicine," Jiuling decided to confront Mrs. Ning herself. Upon meeting Mrs. Ning, Jiuling presented the marriage contract and asserted its legitimacy.

She explained that the late Mr. Ning had insisted on the marriage to repay a life-saving debt, as her grandfather had repeatedly refused any monetary payment. Mrs. Ning remained dismissive, viewing the Jun family's medical lineage as a bargaining chip and insultingly offered money to annul the contract. Jiuling, with steely resolve, countered by exposing the Ning family's secret history of buying their first official rank.

She argued that just as the Ning family had used money to elevate their social standing, they could now use it to rid themselves of the unwanted marriage contract. Jiuling initially demanded 2,000 taels of silver. Mrs. Ning, stunned by Jiuling's knowledge of her family's past, reluctantly agreed. However, seeing Mrs. Ning's desperation, Jiuling immediately raised the price to 5,000 taels.

Episode 2 Recap

Having successfully extracted five thousand taels from the Ning family, Jun Zhenzhen emerged from their mansion, finally avenging the disrespect shown to her grandmother. What began as a demand for two thousand taels escalated to five thousand; she justified the new sum by claiming three thousand for her grandfather’s long-ago service to Master Ning, plus interest, and an additional two thousand as compensation for the distress the Nings caused her grandmother.

Though the Ning family's Tenth Childe objected, his mother, Mrs. Ning, conceded to protect her son's reputation before his upcoming exam, paying for peace. Jun Zhenzhen accepted the money with a sharp warning not to throw it disrespectfully. The successful gambit also shifted her grandmother’s opinion of her. That evening, as a gesture of support, her grandmother presented her with an ancestral jade bracelet, explaining it was rightfully hers, originally intended for her mother.

Jun Zhenzhen, when asked by her maid about her plans for the large sum of money, declared her intention to go to the capital city. Meanwhile, Lord Cheng's son, Zhu Zan, prepared to leave his border post and return to the capital. His parents, Lord Cheng and Ms. Yu, expressed their deep concern. His father questioned his readiness to face the Emperor, who suspected Zhu Zan of leaking military secrets by selling a mileage chart of the capital.

His mother worried about the treacherous political landscape of the capital, a world of scheming so different from the battlefield where Zhu Zan and his father excelled. Lord Cheng instructed Zhu Zan's sworn brother, Zhang Baotang, to accompany him for protection and to manage any urgent matters through the Sky Pavilion, while another subordinate, Sanbing, was ordered to remain in the north.

His mother also mentioned that the Emperor had already arranged a marriage for Chu Jiuling, but Zhu Zan cryptically replied that he had a special gift prepared for Jiuling's wedding. After bowing deeply to his parents, Zhu Zan departed. At an inn during their journey, Zhang Baotang noted the intense scrutiny from the Arm Moral Department. Soon after, Eunuch Li from the Sky Pavilion appeared, feigning annoyance with a clumsy waiter before revealing he had grave news.

Though Eunuch Li tried to delay, Zhu Zan forced him to hand over a letter, which devastatingly reported that Chu Jiuling had died in a fire. Heartbroken, Zhu Zan recalled a childhood promise where a young Chu Jiuling, whom he called his "unique Princess Jiuling," vowed to wait for him in the capital. Zhang Baotang, however, urged caution, pointing out that the letter stated Chu Jiuling's body was burnt beyond recognition.

He also noted that her master, Jun Yingwen—an old friend of the late emperor—was seen at the prison on the day of her confinement, making it unlikely he would have let her die. He suggested a connection and revealed that while Jun Yingwen was missing, his daughter, Jun Zhenzhen, was in Zezhou with her grandmother. This revelation spurred Zhu Zan to immediately change course for Zezhou, determined to uncover the truth.

In the capital, the new emperor, Chu Rang, was furious upon learning of Zhu Zan's diversion, viewing it as an admission of guilt regarding the mileage chart. He ordered his men to capture Zhu Zan. Later, in a calculated move, Chu Rang questioned Lu Yunqi about Princess Jiuli. Lu Yunqi praised her as a paragon of virtue, but Chu Rang, ever wary, wondered if she could become "another Jiuling," implying a potential threat.

Lu Yunqi assured him that Princess Jiuli was unaware of the late emperor's affairs, as she had been grief-stricken and had not met her sister on the wedding day. To protect Princess Jiuli and her brother Jiurong, and to secure Chu Rang's trust, Lu Yunqi requested to marry Princess Jiuli. Chu Rang postponed the decision until a hundred days after Chu Jiuling's death.

Later, at Chu Jiuling's tomb in his clan's ancestral temple, Lu Yunqi confessed that his efforts to save her had been too late to prevent the fire. He vowed to protect Princess Jiuli and Jiurong from Chu Rang's growing suspicion and safeguard all that Chu Jiuling had cared about. In Zezhou, Jun Zhenzhen meticulously examined the belongings left by her master, Jun Yingwen. Her attention was drawn to a sealed document marked "The third year of Taiyan."

This sparked a memory of the former emperor's capture by the Beiqi people and the official silver that had been minted to ransom him. The deal, however, went sour in Zezhou; the Beiqi reneged, and the former emperor and several imperial uncles were killed.

Recognizing the seal as a cargo shipment strip for the official taels from that year, Jun Zhenzhen realized that working at the Fang family's commercial house could provide the access she needed to investigate the old conspiracy. Meanwhile, Zhu Zan, having arrived in Zezhou, attempted to meet Jun Zhenzhen under the alias "Ling Jiu."

He sent a servant to announce his presence, but just as Jun Zhenzhen decided to see him, Zhu Zan was forced to hide to avoid passing officials from the Arm Moral Department. Consequently, they missed each other. Realizing his initial approach was too abrupt, Zhu Zan, with Zhang Baotang's reluctant help, devised a bolder plan.

A few days later, while Jun Zhenzhen was at Deshengchang, the Fang family's commercial house, she feigned interest in the account books while secretly seeking the ancient records from "the third year of Taiyan." As she left, her carriage was conveniently blocked by a broken handcart. She decided to walk with her maid, Liu'er. While Liu'er went to buy cakes, Jun Zhenzhen was accosted by a ruffian, secretly Zhang Baotang in disguise.

Zhu Zan then intervened in a staged "hero saves beauty" act. Jun Zhenzhen immediately saw through the charade, bluntly pointing out Zhu Zan's poor acting and accusing him of orchestrating the entire scene. Maintaining his false identity, Zhu Zan denied her accusations. Intrigued, she paid his teahouse bill, curious to see what other tricks he had planned. He then directly asked if her father was Jun Yingwen.

When she confirmed, Zhu Zan introduced himself as "Ling Jiu," recalling their childhood pact where he was "Ling Jiu" and she was "Jiuling"—unique names they had given each other. At a teahouse, Zhu Zan tried to subtly extract information about Jun Yingwen and Princess Jiuling. Jun Zhenzhen, though she instantly recognized Zhu Zan, firmly denied any knowledge of their whereabouts.

Zhu Zan noticed her habit of sprinkling rose petals in her tea—a unique custom of Chu Jiuling's—but was confused by Jun Zhenzhen's different appearance, wondering if she was merely an imitator. In a painful internal monologue, Jun Zhenzhen acknowledged her childhood friend but resolved to keep her identity secret. She believed the innocent Chu Jiuling was dead and that, as Jun Zhenzhen, she could not involve him in her dangerous path of vengeance, which could bring disaster upon his family.

She resolved that Zhu Zan should live well and not suffer for a "dead person." Zhu Zan, meanwhile, grew certain she was hiding the truth and pondered the dangerous implications if Jun Yingwen and Chu Jiuling were alive. As he deliberated on how to get past her defenses, Fang Chengyu, the legitimate son of the Fang family, approached their table and greeted Jun Zhenzhen.

Episode 3 Recap

After more than a month at the Fang family's estate, Jun Zhenzhen had met most of the female relatives but not the rumored young master. One day, by the Clear Lotus Pond, she discovered fifteen-year-old Fang Chengyu, the legitimate son of the Fang family, sitting in a wheelchair with disheveled hair, meticulously folding white cranes. She then understood the widespread gossip about the "Fang family curse."

For three generations, the family's male heirs had died in their prime, forcing the women to manage the family's business. Fang Chengyu, the sole male heir of his generation, was born frail and rumored to not live past sixteen. He was immediately unwelcoming, informing Jun Zhenzhen that the pond was his private area and rudely dismissing her, stating that a well-bred young lady should understand the principle of "out of sight, out of mind."

Intrigued, Jun Zhenzhen had her servant Liu'er inquire about Fang Chengyu and learned he fell gravely ill at five, with doctors predicting he would not live past sixteen—less than a year away. Determined to help, Jun Zhenzhen approached him in the library. When an irritated Fang Chengyu accused her of being a nuisance, she retorted that he was the one who was sick and insisted she could treat him.

After taking his pulse, Jun Zhenzhen realized he was not suffering from a strange illness but had been slowly poisoned for many years. Later, Dowager Fang summoned Jun Zhenzhen and forbade her from approaching Fang Chengyu again, fearing false hope would only lead to greater despair. Jun Zhenzhen countered that he was poisoned, not ill, which surprised the Dowager.

When pressed, the Dowager and Fang Chengyu's mother confessed that at age five, the only way to save him from a fatal illness was a toxic remedy prescribed by a now-deceased doctor, which he had taken daily for ten years. Jun Zhenzhen explained that while the prescription might have seemed like a remedy, its long-term use had become a slow-acting poison, and that someone had deliberately misled them to harm the Fang family's male lineage.

Convinced, Dowager Fang allowed her to try a new treatment. Fang Chengyu's mother retrieved the original prescription box, inside which Jun Zhenzhen found not only the old formula but also the pattern of a unique seal, deepening her suspicions. Dowager Fang instructed Jun Zhenzhen to create a temporary, similar-looking formula to avoid alerting the hidden perpetrator and swore her and the mother to secrecy.

Pondering the connection between the Fang family, the seal, and a past conspiracy involving official funds, Jun Zhenzhen suspected the culprit was an insider. She questioned Steward Gao about the capital and Prince Huai, but he grew wary of discussing royal affairs and reported her inquiries to Dowager Fang. Anticipating the summons, Jun Zhenzhen explained her questions away as sentimental curiosity stemming from her past friendship with the late Princess Jiuling.

While Dowager Fang accepted the excuse, she sternly warned her against ever discussing royal matters again. Jun Zhenzhen then cleverly obtained permission to go shopping for medicinal herbs with her cousin Fang Yuxiu, framing it as a normal outing for young ladies. Meanwhile, Zhu Zan and his companion Baotang were staking out the Fang residence, hoping to see Jun Zhenzhen contact her father.

They watched as her shopping trip with Fang Yuxiu was interrupted at a jewelry store by Ning Yunyan, who was still bitter about the canceled engagement and the 5,000 taels Jun Zhenzhen had claimed. Ning Yunyan tried to humiliate her by bidding on the same hairpin, but Jun Zhenzhen turned the tables, proposing an auction that resulted in Ning Yunyan paying 150 taels for a hairpin worth only five.

Later, Ning Yunyan confronted Jun Zhenzhen on the street, stomping on her newly purchased herbs and publicly accusing her of fraud. Unfazed, Jun Zhenzhen loudly recounted how the Ning family willingly paid 5,000 taels to void the engagement contract. She further shamed them by sarcastically remarking that if the capital's top courtesan was worth 3,000 taels, then the talented Ning Yunzhao was surely worth the 5,000 taels his family paid.

Zhu Zan and Baotang witnessed the entire exchange, with Zhu Zan finding her unexpectedly interesting. Upon returning home, Jun Zhenzhen spoke with Fang Chengyu, who believed his only purpose was to produce an heir. She gently countered that life's value isn't in its length, comparing a brief but brilliant firework to long-lasting but decaying wood. At the Ning mansion, a furious Ning Yunyan complained to her mother, only to be chastised for creating a public spectacle.

Her brother, Ning Yunzhao, having just returned, calmly advised her to drop the matter to prevent further gossip. Meanwhile, Jun Zhenzhen focused on preparing Fang Chengyu's medicine, and his attitude towards her had noticeably softened after their conversation. Growing impatient, Zhu Zan decided on a more direct approach. He and Baotang staged a scene where Baotang pretended to harass Jun Zhenzhen, allowing Zhu Zan to heroically "rescue" her.

He then requested a private conversation, confessing his close bond with Princess Jiuling and vowing to protect her. He urged Jun Zhenzhen to reveal her whereabouts. Seeing her chance to end his search, Jun Zhenzhen told him the princess did not die of illness but perished in a great fire.

When Zhu Zan admitted his group had attempted a rescue but arrived too late, she fabricated a story that a fire had mysteriously broken out where the princess was held, and she died in the flames. Zhu Zan vehemently refused to believe her. To make her lie more convincing, Jun Zhenzhen directed him to a cliff where, she claimed, her father Jun Yingwen was buried after falling to his death while being pursued after the failed rescue.

She asserted that the princess was truly gone, hoping to finalize the story. Distraught, Zhu Zan returned to his room and held his arm over a candle flame, trying to comprehend the pain the princess might have suffered. Baotang found him and tried to stop the self-torment, but Zhu Zan, consumed by grief and denial, insisted the princess was alive and waiting for him, vowing to find her no matter what.

Episode 4 Recap

Following Jun Zhenzhen's treatment, Fang Chengyu's health showed significant improvement, a fact his grandmother, Ms. Cao, and aunt, Madame Su, noted with pleasure as his appetite increased. Madame Su, who was initially skeptical of Jun Zhenzhen's medical skills, was now convinced of her dedication after seeing her personally preparing the medicine.

Grateful for her efforts, Ms. Cao encouraged Jun Zhenzhen to be less formal and arranged for her to learn the family business by reviewing the Deshengchang accounts with her cousins, Fang Jinxiu and Fang Yuxiu. While examining the ledgers, Jun Zhenzhen discovered suspicious entries, particularly a horse purchase listed at an unusually high price of 200 taels, far exceeding the market average. This suggested embezzlement by long-serving employees.

Although Fang Jinxiu wanted to report the issue to Ms. Cao immediately, Jun Zhenzhen advised caution. She proposed a comprehensive audit of all branches, collecting all current and past account books and shipping records to prevent the culprits from being alerted and tampering with evidence. This method, she explained, would not only expose the corrupt individuals but also help promote trustworthy staff.

Meanwhile, Song Yunping, a manager at Deshengchang, overheard their plan and discreetly sent a servant to warn Madame Su that Jun Zhenzhen might be targeting the Fang family's wealth. Jun Zhenzhen bought a toy horse for Fang Chengyu, a gift that reminded her of her younger brother, Chu Jiurong. Fang Chengyu initially scoffed at the childish gift but secretly examined it after she left.

Recognizing that acupuncture and diet were not enough, Jun Zhenzhen knew a medicated bath was necessary for a full recovery. As she contemplated how to proceed, she encountered Madame Su bringing a tonic soup to Fang Chengyu. Though the soup seemed harmless, Jun Zhenzhen felt uneasy and reported the incident to Ms. Cao. While Ms. Cao initially defended the gentle-natured Madame Su, she acknowledged that human hearts can be unpredictable and agreed to have her monitored.

To advance the treatment and deter any hidden adversaries, Jun Zhenzhen made a bold proposal: an engagement to Fang Chengyu. She argued that announcing a "good luck" marriage would provide a perfect cover for the intimate care required for his recovery, such as the medicated bath, which would otherwise be impossible given his strict views on propriety. Though reluctant to let Jun Zhenzhen sacrifice her reputation, Ms. Cao tearfully agreed, seeing it as the only way to save her grandson.

She promised to treat Jun Zhenzhen as her own and repay her with genuine care. Meanwhile, in the capital, Chu Jiuli and Chu Jiurong folded paper boats by a river to commemorate their late sister, Chu Jiuling. Their grief was interrupted by the arrival of Lu Yunqi. Harboring deep resentment for Lu Yunqi's role in his sister's death, Chu Jiurong promptly left.

Lu Yunqi then coldly informed Chu Jiuli that the Emperor had approved their marriage, set for June 18th—Chu Jiuling's birthday. Resigned to her fate, Chu Jiuli accepted, believing it was the only way to protect her brother. At the same time, Zhu Zan received urgent news from the Sky Pavilion: they had rescued Bing'er, the late Emperor's personal maid, from the Arm Moral Department.

Bing'er revealed that the Emperor's death was a murder orchestrated by Chu Rang and Lu Yunqi, evidenced by strangulation marks on his neck. She recalled seeing Chu Rang secretly enter the Imperial Study on the night of the murder and also drew a mysterious pattern that had deeply troubled the late Emperor. Bing'er confirmed she had told Princess Jiuling all of this before her death. Zhu Zan's companion noted the pattern resembled a shipment seal.

This led Zhu Zan to connect it to a redemption silver exchange in Zezhou—Chu Rang's former fief—and the subsequent massacre of the imperial family. He ordered an immediate investigation into Zezhou merchants who might be linked to the pattern, sensing a dark secret tied to the death of the former emperor's father. The engagement announcement enraged Fang Jinxiu, who accused Jun Zhenzhen of scheming to seize the family fortune, using her sudden interest in the accounts as proof.

Ms. Cao sternly overruled her, stating the marriage was solely for Fang Chengyu's health. A tearful Fang Jinxiu complained to her mother, Madame Su, who, while comforting her, secretly instructed her servant to inform Song Yunping that the marriage was set and they needed a new plan. News of the union spread through Zezhou, with some pitying the orphaned Jun Zhenzhen and others suspecting her motives, recalling her past dealings with the Ning family.

Unfazed by the gossip, Jun Zhenzhen focused on Fang Chengyu. He confessed his deepest regret was never having seen the Lantern Festival since he was five, wistfully recalling a giant lantern that once lit up the whole city. Moved, Jun Zhenzhen promised to take him to the festival and build him a lantern, overcoming Ms. Cao's concerns and Fang Jinxiu's protests by arguing the outing would boost his spirits. While designing the lantern, she was approached by Zhu Zan.

He questioned her about a "Map of the Capital" in her possession, revealing he had created it years ago to attract Emperor Chu Rang's notice and get closer to Princess Jiuling. He spoke fondly of making lanterns with the princess, remembering her in a scarlet dress, and openly confessed his love for her and his regret for not telling her sooner. When he tried to ask about Deshengchang, Jun Zhenzhen feigned ignorance, claiming to be focused on her lantern. Before leaving, Zhu Zan invited her to the Yunmengze Inn if she remembered anything, leaving Jun Zhenzhen to wonder if he, too, was investigating the secrets of Zezhou.

Episode 5 Recap

The Lantern Festival arrived, and for the first time in nearly a decade, the Fang family arranged for the ailing Fang Chengyu to attend, reserving an entire street for the occasion. Accompanied by his grandmother Ms. Cao, his sisters, Liu'er, and Madame Su, Fang Chengyu, who initially worried about being mocked, relaxed and enjoyed the festivities, encouraged by Chu Jiuling, acting as Jun Zhenzhen.

In the bustling crowd, Chu Jiuling was drawn to a Go game where Ning Yunzhao was observing. As Ning Yunzhao subtly offered a suggestion to a losing player, Chu Jiuling also chimed in with a remarkably insightful move. Recognizing their shared understanding, Ning Yunzhao invited her to a blind Go match, played entirely through verbal commands. Though renowned for his exceptional skill, Ning Yunzhao found himself matched by Chu Jiuling's brilliant strategy.

He praised her for being able to think three steps ahead, admitting her skill was superior. After hundreds of moves, with the outcome clear, Chu Jiuling stopped just before making the final winning move, explaining it was unnecessary. When Ning Yunzhao introduced himself, she gifted him a lantern, wishing him a happy birthday and reflecting inwardly that this was a gift on behalf of the late Jun Zhenzhen, his former fiancée.

Meanwhile, Zhang Baotang dragged a reluctant Zhu Zan to the festival to lift his spirits. Zhu Zan was uninterested until he heard that Miss Jun of the Fang family had set up a Go game with a large prize. His demeanor changed, and he sarcastically listed the luxurious items ten taels of silver could buy, a wry acknowledgment of their financial struggles in Zezhou.

Chu Jiuling's game featured a giant, unlit lantern as a chessboard, with the prize of five thousand taels of silver for anyone who could solve the final move and make the lantern light up. Each attempt cost ten taels. Liu'er was aghast, realizing Chu Jiuling had wagered the entire annulment settlement from the Ning family, but Chu Jiuling was confident no one could solve the complex puzzle. Even Ning Yunzhao conceded he couldn't crack it.

As challengers failed one after another, their wagers filled a basket with silver. Suddenly, a humble sugar figurine seller named Chen Qi stepped forward. Mocked by the crowd, he calmly placed a piece, and the entire lantern chessboard lit up in a brilliant display. As Chen Qi gleefully collected the prize money, Liu'er was distraught over the loss, but Chu Jiuling simply smiled, unconcerned.

After the festival, Ning Yunzhao treasured the lantern from the mysterious woman, brushing off his sister Ning Yunyan's curiosity. Suspecting foul play in her Go game, Chu Jiuling questioned the lantern keeper, Lei Zhonglian, who recalled Chen Qi giving the prize money to two men. Following this clue, Chu Jiuling confronted Zhu Zan, accusing him of orchestrating the win. Unfazed, she proposed a trade: she would explain her puzzle if he revealed the business secrets of Deshengchang.

Zhu Zan deflected, now suspicious of her motives for investigating matters in Zezhou. Separately, Zhu Zan learned from Zhang Baotang that the herbs Chu Jiuling had been purchasing were for treating a severe chronic illness. Deducing she was treating Fang Chengyu, he confronted her. He revealed his theory that the Fang family's "curse" was actually a multi-generational poisoning plot, noting that one generation's misfortune is an accident, two is a coincidence, but three suggests a conspiracy.

He offered a deal: he would keep her secret if she used her identity as Fang Chengyu's fiancée to help him find the Fang family's historical freight customer lists. Meanwhile, a bitter Ning Yunyan plotted her revenge. She forged a letter in her brother's name, inviting Chu Jiuling to a private room in the Jinyun Restaurant, intending to ruin her reputation.

However, Chu Jiuling immediately saw through the trap, reasoning that the honorable Ning Yunzhao would never compromise a lady's reputation with such an invitation. In a more sinister plot, Ning Yunyan met with her cousin. He expressed concern that the marriage had not improved Fang Chengyu's health and worried that Chu Jiuling might conceive an heir. In response, Ning Yunyan suggested that if Chu Jiuling were to die, their problems would be solved. When her cousin asked if she planned to kill her, she coldly replied, "No one is going to kill her. She's just unlucky enough to have an accident."

Episode 6 Recap

Madame Su met secretly with her cousin, Shopkeeper Song, who expressed his frustration that Chengyu's condition had not improved despite the upcoming wedding. He asserted that the only remaining obstacle was the possibility of Jun Zhenzhen conceiving a Fang family heir through the marriage. Madame Su realized he intended to kill Jun Zhenzhen, though he dismissed it as a minor, unfortunate accident.

Despite Madame Su's reservations, citing the Fang family's current decline and Jun Zhenzhen's seeming harmlessness, Shopkeeper Song accused her of fear. He emphasized that their decade-long plan hinged on this moment and threatened Jinxiu's safety if Madame Su failed to cooperate. Meanwhile, Ms. Cao received a report from her spy about Madame Su's suspicious meeting with a cloaked, cautious man who used a carriage to evade detection. Ms. Cao was shocked, calling Madame Su a "poisonous snake" in the family.

The spy revealed Madame Su's connection to Shopkeeper Song, explaining that she was his distant cousin whom he brought to Zezhou after her family faced trouble. Shopkeeper Song had previously saved the Fang master's life, which led to Madame Su being taken in as a concubine. Ms. Cao's spy surmised that only someone like Shopkeeper Song, who had been with the Fang family for decades, could operate without immediate suspicion.

They concluded that Madame Su and Shopkeeper Song were conspiring, noting Madame Su's repeated attempts to check Chengyu's condition by bringing him soup, indicating their growing impatience and potential for error. At an inn, Zhu Zan was informed by Zhang Baotang that Lu Yunqi was set to marry Princess Jiuli, with the wedding scheduled for Jiuling's birthday.

This news enraged Zhu Zan, who immediately instructed Zhang Baotang to dispatch more personnel around Prince Huai's residence, prioritizing the safety of Prince Huai and his sister without needing his direct approval or restraint on their methods. Meanwhile, Lu Yunqi visited a tomb marked "Tomb of Beloved Wife Princess Jiuling," bringing eight-treasure cakes he had just learned to make.

He spoke to the deceased Jiuling, reminiscing about the first time he saw her when she, as a child, saved him from bullies. He expressed regret for not having saved her and revealed his impending marriage to Princess Jiuli was a desperate measure to protect her and her brother, as the Emperor had grown suspicious of them. He hoped Jiuling would forgive him.

Later, as Jun Zhenzhen and Liu'er traveled by carriage out of the city, their horse suddenly became spooked and bolted. Despite Jun Zhenzhen's efforts to control the runaway horse, her strength was insufficient. Just as danger loomed, Zhu Zan arrived, intercepting the carriage and shielding Jun Zhenzhen in his embrace, thus averting a disaster. After the rescue, Zhu Zan informed Jun Zhenzhen that a silver needle had been found on the horse's hip, indicating the incident was deliberate.

He suspected the same individuals who had poisoned the Fang family's young master were behind this, aiming to prevent the auspicious wedding. Liu'er observed that Jun Zhenzhen and Zhu Zan, despite their familiarity, pretended to be strangers. She wondered if Jun Zhenzhen's aloofness was to protect Zhu Zan's reputation, suspecting romantic feelings. However, Jun Zhenzhen clarified the difference between liking and admiration.

She explained that while she initially held no affection for Ning Yunzhao or his family due to their broken engagement, a chance encounter where they played blind chess without knowing each other's identities led her to admire his character and chess skills. She reiterated that this admiration did not equate to romantic affection, a distinction Liu'er slowly began to grasp.

Later, Jun Zhenzhen presented Zhu Zan with wound medicine as a gesture of gratitude for his earlier rescue, insisting on treating his injuries herself given her medical expertise. Zhu Zan then urged her to prioritize the investigation into Deshengchang of the Fang family, revealing his limited time in Zezhou. He explained the urgency stemmed from Lu Yunqi's impending marriage to Princess Jiuli, a union approved by the Emperor and slated for Jiuling's birthday.

Zhu Zan needed to return to the capital before then, expressing his frustration aloud and calling Lu Yunqi "mad." Before heading to Jinyun Restaurant, Jun Zhenzhen discussed accelerating her marriage to Chengyu with his grandmother and aunt. She proposed that once married, she could immediately begin medicinal baths and golden needle treatments to repair Chengyu's meridians, predicting his ability to stand would soon follow.

Accompanied by Liu'er, Jun Zhenzhen then arrived at the Jinyun Restaurant, which was unusually open to all for a special March 3rd event. Inside, Ning Yunyan, who had orchestrated Jun Zhenzhen's visit, waited with her friend in a private room. Ning Yunyan was confident that Jun Zhenzhen would fall for her trap, believing her attire was meant to seduce Ning Yunzhao.

She had arranged for her subordinate to serve Jun Zhenzhen tea laced with a potent drug, intending to publicly disgrace her. However, Jun Zhenzhen immediately detected the drug in the tea. Feigning composure, she subtly instructed Liu'er to go downstairs and sign her up for a pitch-pot game. The subordinate, unaware of Jun Zhenzhen's discovery, excitedly confirmed to Ning Yunyan that their plan to discredit Jun Zhenzhen was in motion.

Soon after, Ning Yunzhao arrived at the Jinyun Restaurant with his friends, expressing an interest in finding the girl who had given him a lantern previously. Simultaneously, Zhu Zan, initially reluctant to join, was persuaded by Zhang Baotang to attend for the potential winnings. The host of the Jinyun Restaurant then announced a pitch-pot game, detailing the simple rules and the grand prize for anyone who could break the house record: lifetime VIP status and free expenses.

Ning Yunzhao's friends urged him to showcase his well-known skills, but he demurred. Downstairs, Liu'er confirmed she had signed up Ning Yunyan's name for the competition. Jun Zhenzhen, confident in her plan, declared their intention to "make a fortune" from the Ning family, specifying a target of five thousand taels, and stated that her childhood pastime of pitch-pot would prove useful. The host then formally announced Ning Yunyan and Jun Zhenzhen as the participants in the pitch-pot challenge.

Upon hearing her name, Ning Yunyan became incensed that she was matched against Jun Zhenzhen, declaring Jun Zhenzhen unworthy. Despite her initial fury and considering a no-show, Ning Yunyan decided to uphold her family's reputation and confidently stated her own proficiency in pitch-pot. Spotting her brother, Ning Yunzhao, she insisted he play on her behalf. Reluctantly, and after much urging from his sister and friends, Ning Yunzhao agreed to take her place.

The host then announced that Ning Yunzhao would replace Ning Yunyan. Jun Zhenzhen and Ning Yunzhao exchanged formal greetings, both acknowledging the serendipitous nature of their reunion. Ning Yunzhao expressed his joy in their renewed acquaintance, finding it more delightful than a mere single meeting. He complimented Jun Zhenzhen's chess prowess and inquired if her pitch-pot skills were equally exceptional. Jun Zhenzhen modestly deflected the praise, stating it would be her honor to witness his skill.

Ning Yunzhao apologized for any trouble caused by his sister, but Jun Zhenzhen dismissed the matter, asserting that outside rumors had no bearing on them. The host then explained the betting rules: all wagers would go to the victor, while the loser would return double the wager to the bettors. Ning Yunyan, brimming with confidence due to her brother's participation, encouraged her friend to increase their bets, viewing it as an easy win. The pitch-pot game commenced with three rounds.

The first two rounds allowed each player six throws at twelve pots, while the final round allowed twelve throws. The winner would be determined by the most successful throws, with two out of three rounds deciding the overall victor. Ning Yunzhao threw first in the initial round, sinking all six arrows. When it was Jun Zhenzhen's turn, she managed to land five out of six.

Ning Yunzhao, having won the first round, subtly offered her advice on her wrist movement for the next attempt. In the second round, Ning Yunzhao deliberately eased his throws, landing five out of six, while Jun Zhenzhen successfully sank all six of her arrows, winning the round. This resulted in a tie, and both acknowledged having given each other a chance, agreeing to play seriously in the decisive final round.

As betting opened for the final round, wagers poured in for Ning Yunzhao. Zhu Zan, however, instructed Zhang Baotang to bet on Jun Zhenzhen, intentionally escalating the stakes with Ning Yunyan. Ning Yunyan raised her bet to two thousand taels on her brother, prompting Zhu Zan to counter with another thousand, then a further five hundred, eventually bringing his total wager on Jun Zhenzhen to five thousand taels.

Ning Yunyan remarked on the recurring sum of five thousand taels, alluding to a past incident with the Ning family. Observing the escalating challenge, Jun Zhenzhen calmly placed her own five thousand taels bet on herself. Ning Yunyan scoffed, viewing it as Jun Zhenzhen wasting money to embarrass herself. Ning Yunzhao then performed flawlessly, sinking all twelve of his arrows into the pots.

As Jun Zhenzhen stepped up for her turn, Ning Yunyan loudly accused her, recalling how Jun Zhenzhen had supposedly defrauded the Ning family of five thousand taels with a false marriage contract, and challenged her to see how she would try to "cheat" money now in public.

Episode 7 Recap

Picking up from the final round of the pitch-pot game, Miss Jun stunned everyone at Jinyun Restaurant, especially Zhu Zan, by flawlessly landing all her arrows with a technique called "The Heavenly Maids Scattering Blossoms." Zhu Zan was particularly shocked, as this move was created by and should be known only to Princess Jiuling. Ning Yunzhao graciously admitted defeat, his admiration for Miss Jun growing even deeper.

After her victory, Miss Jun returned to her private room, where a suspicious servant offered her drugged tea. As she began to question him, Zhu Zan arrived. The servant tried to flee but was promptly knocked unconscious by Zhu Zan. Meanwhile, Ning Yunyan, who had orchestrated the trap, grew impatient downstairs. She had convinced Lin Jin'er to check on the room, but moments after Lin Jin'er entered, a scream was heard.

She then emerged, disheveled, with a burly man, who had been drugged instead of Miss Jun. Just then, Miss Jun and Liu'er appeared from a back entrance. Seeing this, Chen Qi loudly accused Ning Yunyan of having her own evil plan backfire, and the crowd turned on her, condemning her viciousness. Amidst the chaos, as Zhu Zan was intently observing Miss Jun, an assassin sent by Song Yunping lunged at her. Zhu Zan swiftly shielded her, sustaining a minor injury.

Before the situation could be resolved, the Arm Moral Department, led by Jiang Baihu, stormed the restaurant. Zhu Zan and Zhang Baotang were forced to hide. In the aftermath, Ning Yunzhao apologized to Miss Jun for his sister's actions. He then confronted Ning Yunyan, who remained unrepentant, blaming Miss Jun for setting her up. Ning Yunzhao rebuked her for her stubbornness and for ruining Miss Lin's life.

As this unfolded, Zhu Zan tried again to ask Miss Jun about the "Heavenly Maids" technique, but their conversation was cut short by the encroaching soldiers. Jiang Baihu, acting on secret orders from the Emperor, commanded everyone to gather downstairs and leave in an orderly fashion. Realizing the soldiers were there for Zhu Zan, Miss Jun signaled Liu'er to spill a box of silver, creating a chaotic scramble.

Zhang Baotang urged Zhu Zan to escape, but Zhu Zan refused, unwilling to implicate Miss Jun. As Jiang Baihu grew suspicious of Miss Jun's composure, Chen Qi, who knew the restaurant's secret passages, hid Zhu Zan and Zhang Baotang in a hidden compartment, revealing that his family were the original owners. Later that evening, Ning Yunzhao visited the Fang Mansion.

He confessed to Miss Jun that he believed she had orchestrated their encounters at the lantern festival and the pitch-pot game out of affection for him. Miss Jun gently corrected him, clarifying that their meetings were coincidences and that she had long since moved on from their broken engagement. To signify their parting, she offered him a pear instead of tea. Zhu Zan, who had overheard the entire conversation, emerged after Ning Yunzhao left.

He informed her that he had sent Zhang Baotang to investigate the assassins, suspecting they were the same people framing the Fang family. He once more pressed her about her knowledge of Princess Jiuling's techniques. Miss Jun deflected, claiming only that she learned many things from spending her days with the princess. Unable to get a confession, Zhu Zan instructed her to meet him at the accounting office the next day.

There, they examined the Deshengchang account books and discovered that records from the third year of the Taiyan era—a period of high income—were suspiciously missing. Zhu Zan then showed her the pattern from a seal, asking if she had seen it. Though inwardly startled, she feigned ignorance. Zhu Zan explained its connection to his investigation and asked her to notify him if she ever saw it.

Following the rejection, Ning Yunzhao told his mother he wanted to arrange Ning Yunyan's marriage before he left for the capital in three days, as a lesson for her to mature. Miss Jun understood this was his way of delivering justice on her behalf. Meanwhile, Ms. Cao arranged for a doctor to examine Fang Chengyu, reinforcing the public impression that he was gravely ill before the wedding.

During a meal, when asked about her wedding attire, Miss Jun's casual confirmation that it fit drew a scornful remark from Jinxiu. Miss Jun then asked for the doctor to prescribe a strength-supplementing tonic for Fang Chengyu to ensure he could get through the ceremony, a request Jinxiu maliciously misinterpreted as being for their wedding night. As she prepared for the wedding, Miss Jun reflected on her three engagements, none of which were truly her own, and wondered if she would ever have one that was.

Episode 8 Recap

On her wedding day, Chu Jiuling officially became the eldest daughter-in-law of the Fang family. She reflected on her life, having experienced three engagements – one with Lu Yunqi, another with Childe Ning, and a third with her cousin, Fang Chengyu himself. None of these had truly belonged to her, and she wondered if she would ever have a real engagement. Now, her only wish was to cure Fang Chengyu as quickly as possible.

The wedding ceremony was brief, with Chu Jiuling asking to skip the usual formalities given Fang Chengyu’s weak health. After they bowed as husband and wife, she prepared a medicated bath for him. When she began to help him undress, Fang Chengyu initially misunderstood her intentions. Chu Jiuling clarified that it was for the medicated bath she had mentioned previously, reminding him that since they were married, he should now accept her treatment, ignoring any previous talk about gender boundaries.

She warned him that the longer he stayed in the bath, the more painful it would become, though the efficacy would also increase, and he might even faint. Despite the pain, Fang Chengyu endured, expressing concern about being useless. Chu Jiuling reassured him he would recover soon and encouraged him to shout if the pain became unbearable. When he eventually screamed for her to leave, she insisted she must stay, knowing he might faint.

She finally relented and stood guard at the door. Liu'er, waiting outside, nervously inquired about Fang Chengyu's condition, to which Chu Jiuling responded that he was strong but needed to recover quickly for a potential long journey, advising early preparations and packing extra herbs. As the medicated bath concluded, Fang Chengyu collapsed into unconsciousness. Chu Jiuling carefully helped him onto the bed and began the delicate process of acupuncture.

Zhu Zan, who had arrived uninvited and observed the entire process, admired her medical skills. He also seemed pleased that their marriage was merely a sham for the purpose of treating Fang Chengyu. After the acupuncture, Zhu Zan approached Chu Jiuling. He brought up the betrayal of Beiqi in the third year of the Taiyan period, suggesting that the ransom money from that time was not handed over but secretly hidden by conspirators.

He implied that the Fang family might be involved and presented Chu Jiuling with a re-drawn diagram of a crucial seal, which he believed was connected to the missing silver. He explained that the drawing was based on the memory of the late emperor's attendant, thus differing slightly from the original. Zhu Zan also pointed out that the prince who had governed Zezhou at the time was the current emperor.

Chu Jiuling expressed skepticism, likening their efforts to an "ant trying to shake a giant tree," but Zhu Zan countered that even a massive dike can be brought down by an ant hole, indicating vulnerability. He then proposed a deal: she would secretly investigate the Fang family and trace the origin of the seal's pattern, while he would identify the person secretly harming the Fang family and keep Fang Chengyu's medical condition a secret.

Chu Jiuling agreed, but only on the condition that if the Fang family was found to be involved in the illicit silver, Zhu Zan would not pursue them, acknowledging that they might have been coerced. They arranged to meet the following day. The next morning, Song Yunping arrived at the Fang residence with Imperial Doctor Sun, feigning concern for Fang Chengyu's health to ascertain the true extent of his illness. Chu Jiuling, however, had anticipated this move.

Imperial Doctor Sun, after examining Fang Chengyu’s pulse, declared him gravely ill, stating his internal organs had decayed and even a miracle-working doctor could not save him, advising the Fang family to prepare for his impending death. Ms. Cao was shocked, wondering how Fang Chengyu’s condition could have deteriorated so rapidly since he had appeared more spirited a few days prior. Imperial Doctor Sun suggested it might have been a momentary recovery or due to temporary tonics.

Chu Jiuling discreetly revealed to Fang Chengyu that the herbal decoction being prepared was merely a show for their visitors, taking advantage of his weakened state after the medicated bath to deceive them. She then asked for calming soup to be prepared for Ms. Cao and Grandma. Later, Chu Jiuling discussed her suspicions with Ms. Cao and Grandma, identifying Song Yunping as the culprit who had been harming the Fang family.

She worried about future attempts to uncover Fang Chengyu’s true condition and questioned if Song Yunping was acting alone. To ensure Fang Chengyu's complete safety and to lure out the true mastermind, Chu Jiuling proposed taking him away from Zezhou to Runan. Ms. Cao and the family helped her make swift preparations. Chu Jiuling hired Mr. Lei, an armed escort, to drive the carriage, having been impressed by his earlier performance at the lantern festival.

Zhu Zan, upon hearing of their travel plans, insisted on accompanying them, not just as an escort but with the explicit intention of uncovering Chu Jiuling's true identity once they reached Runan. He even demanded a hefty sum for his services, noting her own past profits. Shortly after their departure, Song Yunping rushed to the Fang family to inquire about Fang Chengyu’s whereabouts.

Ms. Cao, following Chu Jiuling’s advice, feigned ignorance, claiming that a master from Dakong Temple had advised moving Fang Chengyu to break a curse, and that for safety, even the family did not know his exact location. Song Yunping, though frustrated, accepted the explanation and vowed to find Fang Chengyu himself. Along the journey, Chu Jiuling spoke with Mr. Lei, learning he had been an armed escort for fourteen years.

He recounted a past incident while escorting for the Fang family where bandits attacked, resulting in the loss of goods and lives, including Fang Chengyu's father, and the injury to Mr. Lei’s hand. Fang Chengyu, who had rarely ventured outside, was overjoyed by the journey. Usually quiet, he became talkative and lively, chatting continuously with Chu Jiuling and praising her skill at the pitch-pot game.

Zhu Zan interjected, mocking Fang Chengyu’s childishness, which prompted Fang Chengyu to retort by calling Zhu Zan an "uncle." A playful argument ensued, with Zhu Zan defending his youthfulness and Fang Chengyu accusing him of shameful eavesdropping and premature judgment. The group later stopped to rest by the roadside. Chu Jiuling, eager for Fang Chengyu to try walking, prepared crutches for him.

With the assistance of Chu Jiuling, Liu'er, and Santao, Fang Chengyu made a determined effort and, to his elation, managed to stand up with the crutches. He was overjoyed, exclaiming that he had once only dreamed of leaving the Fang residence, never imagining he would be able to stand and walk. Chu Jiuling assured him he would go even farther in the future.

As they practiced walking, Chu Jiuling couldn't help but think of her brother, Jiurong, trapped in Prince Huai's Mansion, also yearning to experience the wider world like Fang Chengyu. While resting, Fang Chengyu noticed Chu Jiuling’s absence and asked Liu'er, who told him she had gone to a nearby mountain to gather herbs. Concerned about her being alone in the wilderness without martial arts skills, Zhu Zan quickly set off to find her.

Chu Jiuling, meanwhile, had discovered a rare purple immortal herb on a cliff face. Unable to reach it, she used a vine to climb down. Although she successfully plucked the herb, the vine, weakened by friction, suddenly snapped, sending her plummeting down the cliff.

Episode 9 Recap

Following his competitive impulse, Zhu Zan caught the vine, saving Chu Jiuling, in her disguise as Jun Zhenzhen, from falling. After she flatteringly confirmed he was more handsome than Fang Chengyu, he pulled her to safety. Seeing her foot was injured, he carried her back. Along the way, Zhu Zan reminisced about Princess Jiuling, whom he cherished, while Chu Jiuling, listening, felt a pang of nostalgia for their shared past and sighed at how much had changed.

When they paused to rest, Zhu Zan asked for the purple immortal herb, and recognizing its importance to him, she generously gave it to him. Later, Zhu Zan rejoined the group, stating his business was concluded and that he would now serve as an additional escort at no extra cost. Meanwhile, in Zezhou, Song Yunping furiously demanded to know why his men had failed to find Fang Chengyu.

A subordinate suggested Fang Chengyu must have left the city, but Song Yunping, trusting Doctor Sun's assessment that Fang Chengyu was too frail to travel far, believed he was hidden in a nearby old house. At the Fang mansion, Fang Jinxiu told Su Qi that she had seen the maid Shaoyao secretly packing Fang Chengyu's clothes and heading east.

After Fang Jinxiu left, Su Qi, who was being observed by Ms. Cao and Liu, instructed her maid Mujin to relay this information to Song Yunping, falling into a trap set by Chu Jiuling. Upon receiving the message, Song Yunping had his subordinate verify the tip. The subordinate confirmed seeing a woman disguised as the Fang family's "Eldest Madame" secretly heading towards the eastern suburbs.

Convinced by this staged sighting that Fang Chengyu's condition was fatal and that he was hidden there, Song Yunping decided to "end his suffering" and ordered his men to act that night. The group arrived in Runan to find the ancestral Jiuling Drugstore in ruins and the land seized by a local ruffian, Hu Gui. Though she possessed the title deed, Chu Jiuling declared she would forgo the land in exchange for the clinic's treasured plaque.

She felt it was destiny for the name "Jiuling" to be returned to her, cementing her path as a healer. She then announced she would reopen the ancestral clinic. Introducing herself as a Jun family descendant named Jun Jiuling, she boldly proclaimed that the clinic would specialize in incurable diseases and guaranteed a cure for all ailments. To prove her commitment, she offered free consultations and medicine for the first month, inviting anyone to smash her plaque if she failed.

This declaration deepened Zhu Zan's suspicions. The familiar tea-making, the pitch-pot skills, and now the adoption of the name "Jiuling" made him question her identity. He sought out an old Jun family servant, who described "Miss Jun" as a graceful young lady, unchanged from her affectionate childhood self. Hearing this, Zhu Zan was crushed, realizing this person was not the princess he knew and that his hopes had been self-deception.

He later vented his frustration by practicing swordplay in a bamboo grove. Meanwhile, Fang Chengyu had recovered enough to walk. Accompanied by Jun Jiuling, he joyfully explored the streets, relishing his mobility and buying gifts for his family. Jun Jiuling presented him with a pair of new shoes she had made, hoping they would carry him wherever he wished to go. Back at their residence, Jiuling noticed Zhu Zan's coldness.

Approaching him, she acknowledged his disappointment that she was not the princess. Zhu Zan deflected, stating that if Princess Jiuling were alive, she would not want to see her acting in such a manner. Jiuling asserted her right to her name and clinic, and Zhu Zan advised her to forget the past. She countered by asking if he had truly forgotten the young princess, emphasizing the loneliness she would feel if everyone, including him, erased her from memory.

To discredit Jun Jiuling, Hu Gui found Strong Haiping, a man famous for his strength in his youth but who had been bedridden with paralyzed legs for three years, a case all other doctors had deemed hopeless. After convincing Haiping's mother, Hu Gui had the man carried to the clinic. His true aim was for Jiuling to fail, giving him an excuse to smash her plaque and drive her out of Runan to secure his claim on the land.

Desperate, Haiping told Jiuling he would rather be a beggar than remain bedridden. Jun Jiuling confidently examined him, declaring that while his condition was difficult, it was not incurable, and she pledged to heal him or risk her own reputation. At the Fang residence, Ms. Cao burst into Su Qi's room, accusing her of conspiring against the family and demanding to know who was behind her actions, even questioning her role in the death of her son, Nianjun.

As Su Qi was about to confess, her maid Mujin fatally stabbed her before committing suicide by biting a poison pill hidden in her tooth. Frustrated by the loss of her only leads, Ms. Cao ordered Fang Jinxiu to be locked up and dispatched someone to the eastern suburbs to learn the outcome of Song Yunping's mission.

Episode 10 Recap

Unaware of Madame Su's death, Song Yunping leads his men to surround the Fang family's old mansion, intending to burn it down. He believes Fang Chengyu is being hidden inside by Ms. Cao, while Jun Jiuling is merely a decoy. However, Ms. Cao arrives with her kinsmen, confronting Song Yunping and questioning his treachery after the Fang family had treated him so well.

Song Yunping scoffs at her, revealing his motive is money and deep-seated resentment; he felt that despite his years of service to Deshengchang, the Fang family always treated him like a "dog," and their generosity was nothing more than condescending charity. He then brazenly confesses to poisoning Fang Chengyu and manipulating Madame Su. As Ms. Cao appeals to County Magistrate Li Changhong for justice, his officers, who were lying in wait, emerge and arrest Song Yunping.

In Runan, Chu Jiuling anticipates the success of Ms. Cao's plan in Zezhou. With Fang Chengyu recovering well, she focuses on her own goals: uncovering the origin of the seal her grandmother possesses and reaching the capital before her sister Chu Jiuli's wedding. Now able to walk, Fang Chengyu begins studying medicine with Chu Jiuling and expresses his desire to learn business and manage Deshengchang.

He feels he can finally shoulder the family's responsibilities, a stark contrast to his past as a bedridden invalid. Their stay in Runan is also marked by a success story when a man named Hai Ping, whose legs were paralyzed for years, makes a full recovery under Chu Jiuling's care. To show his immense gratitude and publicize the "Jiuling Drugstore," he vows to lift a massive stone and carry it through the city, earning admiration from the townspeople.

Soon, a letter arrives from Zezhou confirming Song Yunping's imprisonment, and Chu Jiuling's party prepares for the journey home. Unbeknownst to them, County Magistrate Li Changhong is an accomplice of Song Yunping. Conspiring with another party, Li Changhong plots a deadly ambush on Baiheliang Mountain, a necessary route on their journey, intending to have them all killed. The journey begins under a cloud of tension.

Since confirming that Jun Zhenzhen is not his beloved Princess Jiuling, Zhu Zan has become cold and distant, accompanying the group only to honor his promise to protect them. Chu Jiuling finds his emotional distance painful. As they travel, Zhu Zan's sharp instincts detect danger. He orders Mr. Lei to lead the carriages ahead without stopping while he and Baotang stay behind to intercept a group of assailants. After a brief but fierce fight, the attackers are driven off.

Zhu Zan rejoins the group with a wounded arm, which Chu Jiuling immediately tends to. A slightly jealous but grateful Fang Chengyu offers the injured Zhu Zan a seat in their carriage, but he silently refuses, choosing to remain on horseback. Watching him, Chu Jiuling laments their cruel fate, silently vowing that she would never fail him if she had the chance to do things over. Back in Zezhou, the Fang household is shrouded in grief.

Devastated by the loss of her loved ones and the revelation of her mother's betrayal, Fang Jinxiu locks herself in her room, refusing food and visitors. Her concerned sister, Fang Yuxiu, brings her favorite dishes, but as soon as she leaves, Jinxiu smashes the tray in despair, mourning that her entire world has collapsed now that she knows her own mother was the architect of the Fang family's suffering.

Using his vast combat experience, Zhu Zan skillfully guides the group, changing their route several times to evade ambushes. However, they eventually reach an unavoidable narrow canyon. As he anticipated, a group of bandits blocks their path. The scene is eerily familiar to Lei Zhonglian, who instantly recognizes them as the same men who killed Old Master Fang and severed his arm fourteen years ago.

To help him claim his long-awaited vengeance, Chu Jiuling uses acupuncture to restore temporary feeling to his disabled arm. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Lei Zhonglian charges into the fray, expertly wielding his Green Lotus Stick Skills and quickly scattering the bandits. As some of the defeated bandits flee, Zhu Zan reveals their true identity: they are not common thieves but disguised government soldiers, which explains their ferocity.

Just then, another contingent of soldiers from Huaiqing Prefecture arrives, claiming they are garrison troops sent to suppress bandits. Zhu Zan immediately sees through their ruse. As the Huaiqing soldiers prepare to attack, intending to slaughter the entire party and frame bandits for the crime, Zhu Zan gives a signal. Instantly, soldiers from Henan Prefecture, secretly positioned in the canyon by Ms. Cao, emerge from hiding.

Announcing they are acting on official orders, they swiftly surround and disarm the fake rescuers, foiling the conspiracy. Having successfully escorted the group to the Zezhou border where they are met by a welcoming Steward Gao, Zhu Zan fulfills his promise and departs. Meanwhile, in the capital, Emperor Chu Rang receives news of the failed ambush and Li Changhong's imminent capture. Fearing exposure, he dispatches his eunuch, Yuan Bao, to Zezhou with a single order: silence Li Changhong permanently.

Upon arriving in Zezhou, Chu Jiuling and Ms. Cao rush to the prefectural yamen to interrogate the captured conspirators. They arrive just moments too late, as they are informed that both Li Changhong and Song Yunping have been assassinated in their cells.

Episode 11 Recap

Li Changhong's sudden death, shrouded in mystery, abruptly halted the ongoing investigation. As the Fang family left the prison, they discussed Li Changhong. Given his long official career serving in various posts around Zezhou, they speculated he had been targeting their family for twenty years. They wondered if it was all for money, finding it hard to believe someone would plot for so long for wealth, especially since their family had not yet made its fortune two decades ago.

During the journey, Jun Jiuling remained pensive. She instructed Senior Madame Fang to return home ahead of her, promising to be back before the reception. After alighting from the carriage, Jun Jiuling spotted Yuan Bao, a eunuch she recognized from the palace. Without hesitation, she discreetly followed him, telling Liu'er to stay put.

Meanwhile, the Fang family members pondered Jun Jiuling's chosen name, Jiuling, realizing it was the name of the late emperor's princess and the deceased wife of Governor Lu. They concluded that Jun Jiuling, whose own parents had passed away and whose engagement had been rejected, might have adopted the name to commemorate the princess who, like her, had a difficult life, though at least Jun Jiuling was alive.

Jun Jiuling followed Yuan Bao, and Zhu Zan, noticing her hurried demeanor and concerned for her safety, also trailed after her. All three entered a post station. Disguised as a service staff, Jun Jiuling hid by a door, eavesdropping on a conversation inside a room. She overheard Yuan Bao confirming Li Changhong's death was "smooth and clean" and that his true plan was to "uproot the Fang family."

When one of Yuan Bao's men grew suspicious and approached the door, Zhu Zan, from his room, loudly called for hot water, creating a diversion. He then took the hot water from Jun Jiuling, allowing her to slip away. Despite this, Yuan Bao remained suspicious and sent his men to investigate. They found no young women working at the station, and Zhu Zan's room showed no signs of recent occupancy, confirming her accomplice had also escaped.

Zhu Zan and Jun Jiuling hid in the bushes, watching as pursuers galloped away. Zhu Zan urged her to return to Zezhou for her safety, while he would create a further diversion. He reminded her that she owed him an answer for his help. Meanwhile, Fang Chengyu learned that his older sister, Fang Jinxiu, had been confined and was in poor spirits.

He pleaded with Senior Madame Fang and his mother to forgive her, asserting Jinxiu was innocent of their mother's actions. Senior Madame Fang explained that the proud Fang Jinxiu was confined for her own good, to shield her from rumors. Fang Chengyu visited his sister with gifts, and she was overjoyed to see him fully recovered. He comforted her self-blame, emphasizing that she was an independent person separate from her mother's crimes and praising her intelligence.

His words helped Fang Jinxiu decide to leave the Fang family and start a new life as simply "Fang Jinxiu." The family supported her decision, viewing it as a chance for her to grow, with the understanding that she could always return. Soon after, Liu'er rushed in, distressed, reporting that Jun Jiuling had been missing all night. The Fang family was alarmed and had already reported it to the authorities.

However, the new county magistrate, Liu Qing, dismissed it as a minor incident. Frantic, Senior Madame Fang went to the county office. There, she produced a "written instruction" from her walking stick, an artifact bearing Chu Rang's seal from when he was a prince, which commanded officials to "do as the holder requires." This forced Liu Qing to dispatch men to search the city. Amid the onlookers drawn by the commotion, Liu'er spotted Jun Jiuling.

Senior Madame Fang, having taken a huge risk, was both relieved and furious when Jun Jiuling explained she had been gathering herbs. When bystanders questioned why she would do so, Fang Chengyu affirmed that she was a skilled doctor who had cured his legs, having inherited the Jun family's medical legacy. Resentful, Liu Qing intentionally revealed the existence of the written instruction to the public. Back at the Fang residence, Senior Madame Fang reprimanded Jun Jiuling for her thoughtlessness.

Jun Jiuling acknowledged her mistake but insisted she had vital information. After dismissing everyone, she recounted seeing Yuan Bao and spoke of a seal she recognized from the senior madame's box, related to "official silver from the third year of the Taiyan period." She explained that Chu Rang, then a prince, had intercepted this silver, which was meant for Beiqi, and diverted it to the Fang family as their initial capital.

In return, the Fang family had helped him amass wealth and followers. Jun Jiuling revealed that Chu Rang had deliberately allowed his own father and brothers to be captured by Beiqi to eliminate obstacles to his power. Senior Madame Fang was horrified, realizing their past "blunder" in aiding Chu Rang had cost the lives of Fang Chengyu's father and grandfather. Jun Jiuling then stated her suspicion that Chu Rang had been framing the Fang family all along.

Senior Madame Fang, despite her own doubts, had clung to the belief that the written instruction would protect them. Jun Jiuling argued that the instruction was now a fatal liability, especially since it was now public knowledge. She proposed a plan: publicly declare the Fang family's status as "imperial merchants." This, she believed, would make the now-Emperor wary of acting rashly and could save them. Seeing this as their only hope, Senior Madame Fang agreed.

Fang Chengyu's mother revealed to him the truth about his marriage: it was a pretense to treat his legs under the guise of a warding-off-evil ceremony. Chengyu was distraught, as he had hoped to spend his life with his cousin once he was healed. Though the marriage was a sham, his feelings were real. He decided to grant Jun Jiuling her freedom and publicly acknowledge her virtuous deeds.

He stated that since their marriage was a full, public ceremony, simply calling it false was unfair to her. Therefore, he would give her a divorce settlement and proclaim her kindness to the entire city. That night, Jun Jiuling prepared to leave for the capital. Fang Chengyu brought her the divorce settlement, thanking her for protecting his family. He painfully bid her farewell, his sadness lifting only when she promised to return, affirming Zezhou was her home.

On the day of her departure, Fang Chengyu commissioned storytellers to spread her tale throughout the city. They recounted the story of Miss Jun—revealing her to be Jun Jiuling, daughter of the renowned divine doctor Jun Yingwen—and her journey of canceling an engagement, gaining fame, and marrying into the Fang family, all while secretly possessing a profound medical legacy.

Episode 12 Recap

The captivating tale of Jun Jiuling, the miraculous physician who rescued the Fang family from distress, rapidly spread throughout Zezhou, becoming a popular topic among the populace. Storytellers vividly recounted how Miss Jun, a descendant of a renowned medical family, bravely intervened. Originally intending to reopen her family’s Jiuling Drugstore in Runan, she was moved by the misfortunes of the Fang family, whose grandfather and uncle had been killed, and her cousin, Fang Chengyu, was on the verge of death.

Jun Jiuling decided to help, devising a cunning plan: she feigned a marriage to Fang Chengyu to secretly detoxify and heal him. To expose the mastermind, Li Changhong, Miss Jun even risked her life, enduring a long and perilous journey with the sick and elderly back to Runan, where she faced ambushes and navigated traps. Her bravery ultimately unraveled a years-long conspiracy between Li Changhong and corrupt officials.

This remarkable feat was lauded as "a broken engagement leading to a brilliant strategy" and "a Jun family daughter's clever scheme." The story of Jun Jiuling's heroic deeds surpassed even the tale of Great-grandma Fang establishing the Deshengchang enterprise with an imperial decree. Meanwhile, Zhu Zan and Chen Qi concluded their investigation in Zezhou.

Chen Qi expressed concern about returning to the capital, fearing capture by the Arm Moral Department, but Zhu Zan was resolute, stating he must return to dispel Emperor Chu Rang's suspicions and, more importantly, to uphold justice for the late emperor and princess. Elsewhere, with the Fang family now publicly declared as imperial merchants and thus protected, the emperor's agent, Eunuch Yuan, was informed that the person he was pursuing had fled towards the capital.

Suspecting a diversion, Yuan decided to return to the capital to report to the Emperor. Upon arriving at the Fang family residence, Zhu Zan discovered Jun Jiuling had already departed, leaving him a letter. In it, she thanked him for helping expose the culprit who framed the Fang family.

Fulfilling her promise, she revealed that the "official funds" from the Taiyan period had been secretly given by Chu Rang to the Fang family as their founding capital to support his rise to power. She explained that only her grandmother knew of this past event, and while the Fang family had made mistakes and suffered the consequences, the remaining members were innocent. Jun Jiuling urged Zhu Zan to honor his promise to spare them.

Reading the letter, Zhu Zan was amused by her pragmatic tone of using him and leaving, but her departure without explaining her true identity left him with unanswered questions. Fang Chengyu, noticing Zhu Zan's conflicted expression, asked if he liked "Jun Zhenzhen," leaving Zhu Zan momentarily speechless, lost in his thoughts of Chu Jiuling. Jun Jiuling, now on her way to the capital, reflected on her newfound memories and family in Zezhou, acknowledging the bittersweet necessity of leaving.

She reaffirmed her resolve to pursue her path in the capital, determined to protect her sister and brother, Jiuli and Jiurong. In the bustling capital, Chen Qi encountered Fang Jinxiu, who was visibly upset after overhearing unkind remarks about her mother. Chen Qi, selling his sugar figurines, tried to cheer her up, offering her a treat and reassuring her that her departure from the Fang family was a positive step towards freedom.

Feeling an immediate connection, he offered to treat her to dinner at a restaurant renowned for its fried boiled pork. Despite Fang Jinxiu's cold demeanor, Chen Qi persisted, suggesting she learn to make sugar figurines from him as a valuable skill for self-sufficiency. Jun Jiuling and Liu'er arrived in the vibrant capital. Jun Jiuling silently vowed to avenge her father and expose the truth about Chu Rang to the world.

Liu'er, thrilled by the city's sights, eagerly asked to find something delicious to eat. Jun Jiuling agreed, and they made their way to a highly-rated dried meat shop. She then told Liu'er to return to their inn with the food while she attended to other matters alone.

Unbeknownst to them, Ning Yunzhao, who was in the capital preparing for the metropolitan exam, had just received a letter from Zezhou revealing that Jun Jiuling's "marriage" to Fang Chengyu was a strategic ploy. He wondered where she was and if their paths would ever cross again. In a twist of fate, as he pondered this, Jun Jiuling walked past him, a fleeting moment of missed connection.

Meanwhile, Chu Rang seethed with anger, berating Eunuch Yuan for his incompetence, which allowed the Fang family to openly declare their imperial merchant status and thus complicate any future attempts to target them. Eunuch Yuan assured him that the Fang family, though having revealed their status, had not mentioned the old official funds nor suspected the Emperor's involvement, instead blaming Li Changhong. He advised against any rash actions, warning that it would only invite widespread speculation about the royal family.

Chu Rang, acknowledging the wisdom of this counsel, agreed to wait for the uproar to subside. Later, Jun Jiuling, longing for her sister and brother, made her way to Prince Huai's residence. As she walked away, she overheard members of the Arm Moral Department discussing their primary target: Zhu Zan. Concerned for his safety, Jun Jiuling decided to warn him. She found Zhu Zan casually enjoying marinated pork at a street stall with his subordinate, Baotang, oblivious to the danger.

Zhu Zan seemed in no hurry, even mentioning he had an important task to complete before going to the palace. Hiding nearby, Jun Jiuling wondered if he intended to confront Chu Rang about the Zezhou secret. After Baotang left, Zhu Zan paid for his meal and headed towards the palace, with Jun Jiuling discreetly following. To her astonishment, Zhu Zan went directly to a tombstone bearing the inscription "Tomb of Beloved Wife Princess Jiuling By Husband Lu Yunqi."

This revelation deeply affected Jun Jiuling, as it was her own tomb, signifying that even in death, she was bound to the Lu family. Zhu Zan produced a Shahua flower from the North, a bloom she had once asked him to retrieve for her, and poured the juice of a purple immortal herb over it, causing it to bloom instantly.

Overcome with grief, he confessed his long-held love for Jiuling, recounting how he had rushed back upon hearing of her wedding, only to be too late. He spoke of meeting a girl strikingly similar to her, fueling his intuition that the tomb did not truly contain Chu Jiuling. Just as Jun Jiuling considered revealing herself, Lu Yunqi arrived with his men. Enraged, Zhu Zan demanded to know the true circumstances of Jiuling's death, accusing Lu Yunqi of deception.

Their verbal confrontation quickly escalated into a violent duel, during which Lu Yunqi cunningly activated a hidden mechanism in his sword, injuring Zhu Zan. The fierce confrontation was abruptly halted by the arrival of Eunuch Yuan, who, on imperial orders, summoned Zhu Zan to the palace. As the wounded Zhu Zan was led away, Jun Jiuling realized that his public appearance and subsequent summons had likely been part of his own calculated plan to evade the Arm Moral Department.

She silently wished for his safe return. As she made her way from the tomb, Jun Jiuling unexpectedly encountered Ning Yunzhao. He greeted her warmly, expressing his admiration for her actions in Zezhou, which he had learned about through letters from his family. When asked about her presence in the capital, Jun Jiuling vaguely stated she had things to do and requested his discretion, which he readily promised.

Ning Yunzhao offered his assistance, suggesting she could find him at his uncle's mansion if needed. Jun Jiuling offered her well wishes for his upcoming metropolitan exam, subtly advising him that the official world was far more treacherous than academics, a sentiment his uncle had also expressed, hinting that his honest nature could be a liability.

Episode 13 Recap

Zhu Zan, accompanied by several city guards, rode directly towards the imperial city. He had prepared his defense in advance, determined to remain calm and composed regardless of how Emperor Chu Rang questioned him. Zhu Zan firmly asserted that he had defied the imperial edict to deal with a group of bandits from the North who were plundering in the capital’s suburbs.

He claimed to have heard about their presence from passers-by and, not wanting to miss the opportunity, secretly followed and eliminated them. Zhu Zan’s sworn brother, Li Sanbing, had in fact already eradicated the bandits on Mount Yang, as Zhu Zan had anticipated such an inquiry and prepared this "double gain" plan, which also served as a convenient excuse. Despite Zhu Zan's meticulous explanation, the suspicious Emperor Chu Rang was not easily convinced.

He decided to hold a joint trial, involving Tan Song of the Supreme Court, Han Feng of the Ministry of War, and Commander Lu Yunqi of the Military Surveillance Department. While Tan Song and Han Feng might conduct the trial impartially, Lu Yunqi harbored a deep personal grudge against Zhu Zan, making it likely he would use this opportunity for a personal vendetta.

During the joint trial, the focus immediately turned to the "Map of Capital City," which Zhu Zan had personally drawn and which had circulated among the populace. Zhu Zan readily admitted his involvement, explaining that the map was essential for people entering the capital and that its sale by post soldiers had generated significant income. This had not only improved the post stations but also greatly eased the Ministry of War's expenses and led to better-quality post horses.

Han Feng of the Ministry of War openly confirmed that the map had indeed helped alleviate their funding issues. However, Commander Lu Yunqi countered, implying that Zhu Zan was guilty of treason for distributing the map and suggesting the Ministry of War was colluding with him. Han Feng was enraged by the accusation. It was only through Tan Song’s timely intervention that a physical confrontation was avoided.

Zhu Zan clarified that the map contained only details about dining and entertainment, deliberately excluding any information about city defenses, government offices, or the imperial city, and it lacked precise geographical measurements, rendering it useless to the enemy. He passionately explained that the map showcased the prosperity of Tianyou, allowing the soldiers in the North, who might never see the capital, to visualize what they were fighting to protect.

This gave profound meaning to their bloody battles on the front lines. Zhu Zan’s words resonated deeply, leaving Lu Yunqi speechless and Tan Song unsure how to proceed. They ultimately decided to refer the case to Emperor Chu Rang for a decision. Later, the eunuch Yuan Bao advised the Emperor that while Zhu Zan’s actions were "absurd," the matter could be handled flexibly.

He urged the Emperor to keep Zhu Zan in the capital, as Lord Cheng was gaining influence in the North, and holding his son would serve as a crucial check on his power. Emperor Chu Rang, fearing a blow to public morale due to Zhu Zan's contributions in the North, decided to temporarily overlook the offense, letting Zhu Zan compensate for his faults with his merits.

In the aftermath, some officials remarked that this outcome was fitting, as having the "merciless" Lord Zhu Zan and the "arrogant" Commander Lu Yunqi in the capital would hold each other in check, promising a lively future for the city. Upon returning to her inn, Jun Jiuling was met by Liu'er, who expressed her worry about her nocturnal outing. Jun Jiuling explained she had been to meet an old friend.

They decided to dine out at a Runan restaurant and then search for a suitable shop. Liu'er found a potential location that was in a prime area but was concerned its proximity to the palace meant it would mostly serve high officials and nobles, who would likely consult the Imperial Academy of Medicine instead of their Jiuling Drugstore. Jun Jiuling, however, revealed her strategic vision: establishing a foothold in the capital required building connections with influential figures.

They then proceeded to the Deshengchang firm. Shopkeeper Liu of Deshengchang greeted "Miss Jun," explaining that Fang Chengyu's letter had predicted her arrival. He then presented a package from Fang Chengyu, which turned out to be the "Jiuling Drugstore" plaque, already beautifully repainted with gold characters. Liu'er was astonished by Fang Chengyu's foresight. Jun Jiuling clarified that she had decided to open the drugstore on her journey and had not informed the Fang family, highlighting Fang Chengyu's remarkable thoughtfulness.

Shopkeeper Liu confirmed that the shop was ready for opening on the 18th, just five days away, and expressed concerns about the tight timeline. He strongly advised a grand opening to build her reputation in a city full of famous doctors, but Jun Jiuling calmly reiterated that she had a plan and instructed him to proceed as she directed. Meanwhile, at the Ning Mansion, Ning Yunzhao was presented with a wedding gift list for Commander Lu Yunqi by his uncle.

Preoccupied, he retired to his room, prompting his uncle to comment on his unusual behavior and instruct a subordinate to reduce the wedding gift, as their family had little connection with Lu Yunqi. Later that night, Ning Yunzhao sought out Jun Jiuling at her inn, having found her by inquiring at inns near the city gate. He expressed concern about her plan to name her new clinic "Jiuling Drugstore."

He explained that the name was "improper" as it was the same as the late Princess Jiuling, who was Commander Lu Yunqi's deceased wife. Knowing Lu Yunqi's eccentric temper, he warned that opening the clinic on the very day of the commander's new wedding could invite trouble. Undeterred, Jun Jiuling declared that if Lu Yunqi did cause problems, "Jiuling Drugstore" would become famous.

Seeing her resolve, Ning Yunzhao conceded, musing as he left that while he might be overly cautious, living in the capital was indeed "difficult." Despite Ning Yunzhao's warnings, Jun Jiuling proceeded with the opening of Jiuling Drugstore on the day of Lu Yunqi's wedding to Jiuli. As the wedding procession passed, Jun Jiuling discreetly observed from a secluded spot.

She witnessed the young prince, Jiurong, crying heartbrokenly and calling for his sisters, distraught that both Jiuli and his "second sister" had left him. Jiurong's teacher, Gu Qing, tried to comfort him and led him back to Prince Huai's residence. Watching Jiurong's grief, Jun Jiuling's heart filled with sorrow, and she silently vowed to accelerate her revenge. As she wiped away her tears, Zhu Zan appeared, intercepting her.

He had noticed her unique gaze towards Jiuli and her tears upon seeing Jiurong. He questioned her motives for being in the capital. Jun Jiuling reiterated her previous explanation: she and Princess Jiuling were like sisters, making Jiuli and Jiurong like her own family. Zhu Zan then pressed her on how she recognized the disguised imperial eunuch Yuan Bao. Jun Jiuling calmly explained that she had met Yuan Bao with her father during a palace banquet.

Still suspicious, Zhu Zan tried to "read her eyes," but she dismissed his efforts as "childish" and left, claiming to be too busy with her new drugstore. Shortly after its grand opening, Jiuling Drugstore surprisingly closed its doors, leaving locals and Shopkeeper Liu bewildered. Zhu Zan and his sworn brother noted the unusual closure. His brother speculated she was intentionally seeking trouble and was likely in the capital to avenge her father.

Meanwhile, Jun Jiuling, adopting the identity of a traveling hand-bell doctor, went through the streets with Liu'er. Her strategy was to treat the relatives of a Mrs. Zhou, who was close to the Marquis of Dingyuan's family, hoping to eventually gain access to their circle and gather information about Jiurong and Jiuli. They encountered children, to whom Jun Jiuling offered specially made medicinal preserves. An adult woman quickly intervened, calling them "frauds" and telling the children to discard the preserves.

Annoyed by the thankless work, Liu'er questioned why they weren't seeing patients at their well-appointed drugstore, but Jun Jiuling insisted they would proceed "slowly." Independently, Ning Yunzhao also attempted to visit Jiuling Drugstore to congratulate her, only to find it closed. That night, Lu Yunqi, heavily intoxicated on his wedding night, mistakenly called out "Jiuling" to his bride, Jiuli. When Jiuli gently corrected him, "I'm Jiuli," the memory seemed to sober Lu Yunqi.

He murmured that Princess Jiuling never drank and then poured his wine onto the ground. In parallel, a distraught Jun Jiuling was also drinking, revealing to Liu'er that it was her very first time. She confided that she was upset because she "couldn't protect the person most important to me." She then sent Liu'er out to buy more wine, promising to roast meat for her when she returned.

Episode 14 Recap

Following her sister's wedding, a sorrowful Jun Jiuling seeks solace in drink at a restaurant. Zhu Zan finds her there and, understanding the deep pain of seeking revenge for one's family, comforts her. He then calls over his sworn brothers, Li Sanbing and Baotang, to join them. As the men drink heartily and share their camaraderie, the lively atmosphere helps lift Jun Jiuling's spirits, and her melancholy begins to dissipate.

Meanwhile, Fang Chengyu receives a letter of complaint from Shopkeeper Liu, detailing Jun Jiuling's unconventional activities in the capital. He intends to cover for her, but his grandmother, Ms. Cao, takes the letter. Though initially puzzled by Jun Jiuling's behavior, Ms. Cao is moved by Fang Chengyu's unwavering trust in her and instructs Shopkeeper Liu to follow all of Jun Jiuling's instructions without question. Elsewhere, Fang Jinxiu diligently learns to make sugar figurines from Chen Qi.

During her first day selling them on the street, she is too shy to call out to customers. Chen Qi, observing from nearby, is about to step in when a woman and child approach her. After making her first sale, Fang Jinxiu finds her confidence and quickly sells all her figurines, much to her delight. Jun Jiuling continues her rounds as a hand-bell doctor, distributing preserved fruits to children, which begins to annoy some local residents.

Shopkeeper Liu worries she will offend the area's wealthy households but is under orders not to interfere. Using her knowledge from her past life, Jun Jiuling deliberately wanders in front of the residences of several prominent officials, including that of Lord Zhou, the capital's magistrate. She encounters Lord Zhou's wife, Mrs. Zhou, and after observing her complexion, warns her of a "bad omen," only to be dismissed as a fraud.

Mistakenly believing Jiuling Drugstore is failing, Ning Yunzhao sends a servant to discreetly guide a potential patient, Mrs. Wang Cao, to Jun Jiuling. Jun Jiuling is initially pleased to see a patient but changes her demeanor upon spotting Ning Yunzhao's man, realizing she is being pitied. She refuses to treat Mrs. Wang Cao, stating her ailment isn't worthy of her attention. Angered, Mrs. Wang Cao spreads rumors that Jun Jiuling is an arrogant and money-grubbing doctor.

Ning Yunzhao feels guilty for the trouble he caused but, recalling Jun Jiuling's cleverness, suspects she has her own plan and decides not to intervene further. When Mrs. Zhou hears about the incident with Mrs. Wang Cao, she recalls Jun Jiuling's warning. Growing increasingly anxious and paranoid, she begins to imagine the sound of a crying infant and immediately sends a maid to fetch Jun Jiuling.

At the Zhou mansion, Jun Jiuling promises to cure the psychosomatic illness within half a month. She correctly deduces that Mrs. Zhou's trauma stems from a lost child, which Mrs. Zhou tearfully confirms, confessing she had an abortion to protect her husband's career. Jun Jiuling later explains to Liu'er that she uncovered the truth through medical observation and the fact that Mrs. Zhou constantly carried a doll.

Soon after, Mrs. Zhou sends a consultation fee of five thousand taels, leaving Shopkeeper Liu stunned. Knowing Zhu Zan's concern for Jun Jiuling, Baotang and Li Sanbing bring him to a street corner she frequents. When she arrives, Jun Jiuling playfully teases Li Sanbing. Liu'er chimes in, exposing Zhu Zan's past antics of climbing walls to sneak into Jun Jiuling's room, much to the amusement of the group. With Mrs. Zhou cured, Jiuling Drugstore's fame spreads, attracting numerous patients.

However, Jun Jiuling's goal is not profit. Her strategy is to selectively treat powerful families, using her medical skills to build a network of influence within the elite's inner circles. She knows this is the path that will eventually lead her to Prince Huai's residence and, ultimately, to her sister and brother, Jiurong.

Episode 15 Recap

Despite her success selling sugar figurines, Fang Jinxiu knew it was a temporary solution that didn't use her business skills. Her sister, Fang Yuxiu, visited and gave her a letter from Jun Jiuling, who invited Fang Jinxiu to the capital to help manage Jiuling Drugstore. Inspired by the offer and encouraged by Chen Qi to pursue her ambitions, Fang Jinxiu decided to make the journey, with Chen Qi accompanying her for protection.

In the capital, word of Jun Jiuling's unconventional but effective methods spread. A subordinate reported to Fang Chengyu that women, once wary of her, now sought her out. They would ask if they had a "bad omen," and were overjoyed when Jun Jiuling simply ignored them or said no, taking it as a sign of good health. Meanwhile, at the Marquis of Dingyuan's residence, Mrs. Lin's condition had not improved under the care of Imperial Doctor Jiang Youshu.

Frustrated by the lack of progress, the family took the advice of a visiting Mrs. Zhou and summoned Jun Jiuling, who was gaining a reputation for her miraculous cures. At Prince Huai's residence, Princess Jiuli visited her younger brother, Jiurong, accompanied by her husband, Lu Yunqi. He quickly made an excuse to leave, prompting the princess's maid to complain about his frequent absences and his failure to stay with the princess on their wedding night.

Jiuli, however, was unconcerned with her husband and focused solely on Jiurong's frail health and persistent cough. She wanted to replace his doctor, but Jiurong, aware of his precarious position, urged her not to cause trouble. Seeing her brother so vulnerable, Jiuli was moved to tears. After her first visit to Mrs. Lin, Jun Jiuling returned to her drugstore and told her shopkeeper, Liu, that the patient would be much better in three days.

Liu grew worried, fearing such a rapid recovery would offend Imperial Doctor Jiang Youshu, who had treated Mrs. Lin for a month with no results, and draw trouble from the Imperial Academy of Medicine. His fears were well-founded; Imperial Doctors Zhang and Zhou were already discussing how many of Jiang Youshu's patients were now seeking out Jun Jiuling.

They decided to discreetly inform Lu Yunqi that Jun Jiuling was using a name identical to that of the late Princess Jiuling, expecting him to punish her. However, Lu Yunqi, deciding not to be manipulated, chose to let the offended Jiang Youshu handle the matter himself. While treating Mrs. Lin at the Marquis of Dingyuan's residence, Jun Jiuling overheard whispers about Prince Jiurong's prolonged illness and neglect.

The conversation also revealed that Lu Yunqi had sent for the Marquis's cook to prepare red bean cakes for Princess Jiuli. Later, remembering her sister's love for the dessert, Jun Jiuling bought some herself but found them disappointing. At that moment, Zhu Zan arrived to see her. Citing her friendship with the late princess, Jun Jiuling earnestly asked Zhu Zan to help find a trustworthy imperial doctor for Jiurong.

Zhu Zan agreed to investigate, warning that it would be difficult due to Lu Yunqi's strict control over Prince Huai's residence. Zhu Zan later returned with his findings from the Imperial Academy of Medicine's archives. He discovered that Imperial Doctor Jiang Youshu was assigned to Prince Jiurong, but the medical records only noted a vague "Qi deficiency," for which he prescribed ineffective tonics—a clear sign of deliberate malpractice likely ordered by the emperor, Chu Rang.

Zhu Zan proposed replacing him with Imperial Doctor Sun, a trusted friend of his father. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Jun Jiuling formally bowed to Zhu Zan. Her intense reaction made him suspicious of her personal investment. She calmly explained that since she and the late Princess Jiuling were as close as sisters, she naturally regarded Jiurong as her own brother and felt responsible for his well-being. After a long journey, Fang Jinxiu and Chen Qi arrived at Jiuling Drugstore.

Fang Jinxiu was initially unimpressed by the staff's relaxed attitude, but Shopkeeper Liu greeted them warmly, explaining Jun Jiuling had been expecting them. Jun Jiuling returned, and their happy reunion was interrupted by a commotion outside. A crowd led by a Dr. Feng accused her of being unethical, claiming she only treated the rich and pushed commoners onto other doctors. One man falsely claimed she had seen him before but had forgotten him.

Zhu Zan, who was present, quickly exposed the man's fake injury, and the crowd dispersed. He then told Jun Jiuling that the incident was likely orchestrated by the Imperial Academy of Medicine, specifically a vengeful Jiang Youshu. Later, Fang Jinxiu reviewed the drugstore's accounts with Chen Qi. She noted that despite dealing in rare, expensive herbs, the store was operating at a loss. Chen Qi was optimistic, seeing the herbs as a potentially massive "big deal."

Fang Jinxiu worried such a deal would attract trouble, but Chen Qi argued that with real skill, like Jun Jiuling had just demonstrated, any trouble could be overcome. At the same time, a noblewoman known as Third Madame was distressed by a throat ailment that left her voice hoarse and her husband distant. Her servant, Nanny Huang, recommended the now-famous Jun Jiuling, who had cured Mrs. Lin. Desperate, Third Madame immediately sent Nanny Huang to Jiuling Drugstore to forcefully request a house call.

Episode 16 Recap

People from a madam's household urgently requested Dr. Jun Jiuling for a home visit, despite her assistant's assurance that the provided prescription was effective for their madam's minor illness. Faced with their aggressive insistence, Jun Jiuling reluctantly agreed. Upon arrival, the Third Madame's attendant explained that their master cherished the madam's voice, which had been lost for days, and asked for a quick remedy.

After examining her, Jun Jiuling explained the condition was a simple case of hoarseness from inflammation and would resolve with a few days of rest. However, the Third Madame insisted on a swift cure, regardless of cost. Jun Jiuling administered a medicine which, after briefly rendering the Third Madame completely silent and alarming her attendants, successfully restored her voice. Jun Jiuling was deeply unsettled, noting the Third Madame's voice was strikingly similar to her own former voice.

Moments later, Lu Yunqi arrived. He compelled the Third Madame to repeatedly call his name, "Yunqi," critiquing her tone for lacking a natural quality. Ignoring her attempts to please him with snacks she had waited hours for, he fixated on her manner of address. He then turned his attention to Jun Jiuling, who the Third Madame introduced as her healer. Recognizing her, Lu Yunqi demanded to know why she used the name Jiuling.

She calmly explained that the Jiuling Drugstore was her family's ancestral property. Unmoved, Lu Yunqi ordered her to be paid 10,000 taels. Despite Jun Jiuling's protests that the 2,000-tael fee was sufficient, Lu Yunqi insisted, declaring the excess was payment for her to change the name of her centuries-old drugstore and to change her own name as well. After leaving Lu Yunqi's residence, Jun Jiuling was overwhelmed with disgust and vomited in an alley.

She realized the Third Madame was merely a substitute Lu Yunqi kept as a shadow of the former Princess Jiuling, and felt profound pity for her sister, wondering what suffering she must be enduring with such a husband. Later, Jun Jiuling's assistant noticed her troubled mood, but she dismissed the concern. Soon after, Ning Yunzhao arrived at the drugstore, where he greeted Miss Fang Chengyu, surprised to see her in the capital.

He then asked Jun Jiuling to speak privately at a teahouse. There, Ning Yunzhao invited her to watch the lanterns with him alone for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Jun Jiuling reminded him of their previous understanding, but he confessed that upon seeing her again and learning her prior engagement was a ruse, his old admiration had been rekindled. After explaining that he had contemplated his feelings for a month, he admitted he had developed feelings for her.

He offered her two days to consider, but Jun Jiuling immediately declined, stating they were not a suitable match and she was not considering marriage. Ning Yunzhao accepted her straightforward rejection. She then thanked him, correctly guessing that he had been the one anonymously sending patients to her drugstore. Coincidentally, Zhu Zan appeared, claiming a friend had chosen the location.

After Ning Yunzhao explained he had been rejected and departed, Zhu Zan immediately asked Jun Jiuling to go to the festival with him instead. Noting that Ning Yunzhao's invitation held a deeper meaning whereas Zhu Zan's did not, she surprisingly agreed. Later, however, Zhu Zan told his assistant he would be studying that night, realizing she would likely spend the family-oriented holiday with her relatives.

Before they parted ways, Zhu Zan and Jun Jiuling discussed replacing Prince Huai's doctor, Jiang Youshu. Zhu Zan jokingly referenced an ancient chess game, suggesting he wouldn't expose her schemes if she shared the prize, but she steered the conversation back to their serious plan. He explained that replacing Jiang Youshu was difficult, as he was personally appointed by the Emperor.

Zhu Zan also found it perplexing that Lu Yunqi had attempted the same thing, only stopping when he learned of the Emperor's direct order. Suspecting Lu Yunqi's motives were not out of concern for the princess, Zhu Zan had already assigned his subordinate, Sanbing, to monitor him. Their discussion was cut short when Chen Qi rushed in, reporting that Dr. Feng, whom Jun Jiuling had praised as the best bone-setter in the capital, was in trouble at his Baicao Drugstore.

A furious man was smashing the clinic because his brother's leg, treated by Dr. Feng, had not healed. Jun Jiuling immediately went to help. At the scene, she discreetly examined the injured man and confirmed the bone was not set correctly. To save Dr. Feng's reputation, she asked him to publicly re-demonstrate his technique for her to "learn." As he did, she subtly guided him to the problem area. Dr. Feng was stunned to realize the bone was still broken.

Jun Jiuling then de-escalated the situation by explaining it was a rare "healed-then-cracked" condition documented in medical texts, assuring everyone the leg would fully heal. The patient's pain subsided, and his brother profusely apologized. Dr. Feng expressed deep gratitude, acknowledging she had saved the man's leg and his own reputation. Jun Jiuling's assistance fostered a strong alliance. Dr. Feng became a staunch advocate for Jiuling Drugstore, praising her as a "living Bodhisattva."

Her reputation for generously sharing her knowledge grew, and doctors from all over the capital began to consult with her, holding her in high esteem. Consequently, Imperial Doctor Jiang Youshu's earlier attempts to incite the medical community against her completely failed. While walking through the market, Zhu Zan and Jun Jiuling witnessed officials brutally extorting money from a woman and her child for unpaid taxes. Zhu Zan intervened, and the officials retreated upon recognizing him.

The woman explained that while the base tax had been lowered by Emperor Chu Rang, three new taxes had been added, effectively doubling their burden. Enraged, Zhu Zan declared his intent to petition the Emperor to revise the tax code. Jun Jiuling warned him that openly challenging the Emperor's policy would be seen as a direct affront and could land him in prison, but he insisted the people's welfare was more important.

Meanwhile, Prince Huai's condition worsened, and a furious Emperor Chu Rang berated the Imperial Academy of Medicine for failing to cure the late emperor's only son. The terrified doctors, feeling they were in a no-win situation with a capricious emperor, worried they would be made scapegoats. They concluded that for their own survival, the prince's death needed to seem inevitable, even considering faking an incurable disease like scrofula.

Amidst this crisis, Jiang Youshu devised a "kill three birds with one stone" scheme to use Jiuling Drugstore's fame to his advantage. As his plot was forming, people from the Wude Department arrived at Jiuling Drugstore, followed by Lu Yunqi himself. He confronted Jun Jiuling, reminding her she had taken his money. " You dared to accept the money but not keep your word," he stated coldly. " I'll ask you one more time: will you change the name or not?"

Episode 17 Recap

Jun Jiuling's resolute refusal to rename her ancestral Jiuling Drugstore infuriated Lu Yunqi, who ordered his men to smash its plaque. Just as they were about to execute the order, Zhu Zan intervened, sparking a confrontation with Lu Yunqi, as the two shared a long-standing animosity. Zhu Zan attempted to prevent the destruction of the plaque, but Lu Yunqi, seizing a moment of distraction, delivered a powerful kick, sending the plaque tumbling.

Seeing the plaque fall, Jun Jiuling instinctively rushed forward to shield it with her body. Zhu Zan swiftly pulled her to safety beneath him, preventing her from being seriously injured. Lu Yunqi mockingly remarked that such a display of courage did not guarantee her wishes would be fulfilled. Recognizing the overwhelming numbers of the Arm Moral Department and that Zhu Zan was outmatched, Jun Jiuling requested a private conversation with Lu Yunqi inside the Jiuling Drugstore.

Within the clinic, Jun Jiuling dismissed her staff and bluntly informed Lu Yunqi that he was afflicted by a "bad omen." She elaborated that the person he held dearest never appeared in his dreams and, in fact, harbored a bone-deep hatred for him. Lu Yunqi scoffed at her words, but when Jun Jiuling presented him with a prescription, the sight of her distinctive handwriting, identical to that of the late Princess Jiuling, left him stunned.

He immediately departed with his men, abandoning his plan to destroy the plaque. Later, when Zhu Zan questioned her about Lu Yunqi's abrupt exit, Jun Jiuling explained that she had simply given him a prescription for his "bad omen," which he had no choice but to consider. Meanwhile, Fang Chengyu received alarming news from the capital: an imperial doctor, fearing the Emperor's wrath over Prince Huai's worsening condition, had discreetly converted all his assets into silver notes, preparing to flee.

Fang Chengyu's investigation revealed that the prince's illness, though not initially severe, had become chronic due to frequent relapses. Jun Jiuling later confided that she had intentionally revealed her handwriting to Lu Yunqi as a calculated risk. It was a desperate gamble to gain access to her brother, Jiurong, whose safety was her utmost concern. Lu Yunqi, comparing Jun Jiuling's handwriting to that of the deceased princess, found them identical, intensifying his suspicion about her true identity.

He later discussed the possibility of soul reincarnation with Jiuli, expressing his desperate wish for Princess Jiuling's return. Jiuli, however, dismissed the notion as impossible, asserting that even if it were true, she would never want her sister to return and suffer again. She stressed that resemblances in eyes, voice, or demeanor did not make someone the same person. Jiurong's condition continued to worsen, and news of his critical state spread throughout the capital.

Imperial doctors diagnosed him with scrofula, widely considered an incurable and fatal disease. Imperial Doctor Jiang, eager to offload the difficult case, recommended Dr. Jun to Emperor Chu Rang, praising her as the successor to the renowned Jun Yingwen. The Emperor was initially outraged at the suggestion of entrusting a royal to a mere female hand-bell doctor. However, Lu Yunqi also sought an audience and proposed a different angle.

He informed the Emperor that Dr. Jun was the granddaughter of the Fang family, the same Jun Zhenzhen who had salvaged their fortunes. Lu Yunqi suggested that if Dr. Jun cured Jiurong, all would be well. But if she failed, the Emperor should execute her entire clan, a move that would appease public sentiment. After deliberation, Emperor Chu Rang agreed. Upon learning of the imperial decree, Zhu Zan immediately sought out Jun Jiuling to apprise her of the perilous terms.

He offered a stark choice: if she cured Jiurong, he would ensure her personal safety; but if she failed, he would protect the Fang family's lives. He urged her to do everything in her power, revealing that Jiurong was not only Princess Jiuling's family but his as well. Deeply moved by Zhu Zan's unwavering support and his sincere declaration, Jun Jiuling embraced him. With renewed determination, she proceeded to Prince Huai's residence.

Elsewhere, Ning Yunzhao, troubled by the rumor that scrofula was incurable, began researching the condition, only to be reprimanded by his uncle for his sentimental preoccupations. At Prince Huai's residence, Jun Jiuling was pained to see Jiurong's frail state. After a thorough examination of his neck, she found it was clean and smooth, devoid of any lumps, confirming that he did not have scrofula. She realized the diagnosis was a fabrication by the imperial doctors to evade responsibility.

To maintain this facade and prevent complications, Jun Jiuling publicly affirmed the diagnosis of scrofula. She then took personal charge of preparing his medicine, meticulously washing, cutting, and decocting the herbs herself, forbidding anyone from entering the kitchen while she worked. When Jiurong struggled to swallow the medicine, she, with the princess's help, gently administered the medication. His recovery now hinged on whether his fever would break that night.

Aware of the turmoil, Fang Chengyu implored his grandmother, Ms. Cao, to send an official family decree to the capital. He explained that this was the only way to deter the volatile Lu Yunqi from further harassing the Jiuling Drugstore, which he had targeted simply "because of the name." Jiurong's fever eventually subsided, a sign he had overcome the most critical phase of his illness.

As Jun Jiuling prepared to decoct more herbs, Lu Yunqi intercepted her, questioning why she handled every step herself. Jun Jiuling retorted that she didn't trust anyone, especially with so many people, including him, waiting for her to fail. She declared that if anything went wrong with Jiurong's treatment due to outside interference, the responsibility would not be hers.

Episode 18 Recap

Jun Jiuling, preparing to boil the medicine for Prince Huai, insisted on managing the process herself. She stated she trusted no one else, not even Lu Yunqi, to handle her ingredients, acknowledging that many were waiting to see her fail and that a loss would be a great humiliation. Meanwhile, Lu Yunqi deliberately probed Princess Jiuli by revealing the name of Jun Jiuling’s clinic, Jiuling Drugstore, and her full name.

Princess Jiuli paused, but quickly masked her surprise with a smile, though her fleeting expression did not escape Lu Yunqi’s notice. Elsewhere, Ms. Cao, after learning the full story, gladly agreed to send the imperial decree to the capital, pleased that Fang Chengyu was embracing his responsibilities as a Fang family man.

Fang Chengyu confessed his genuine affection for Jun Jiuling, explaining that while their "fake marriage" was initially a transaction, his feelings were now sincere and he hoped to truly marry her one day, if she was willing. Ms. Cao, understanding his heart, gave her blessing, acknowledging that any genuine effort made is worthwhile in itself. As Jun Jiuling tended to the prince, Princess Jiuli couldn’t help but subtly question her about her name.

Lu Yunqi, observing from outside, noticed that Jun Jiuling always showed a deep, hidden sadness when near Prince Huai, often turning away to weep silently. When Prince Huai’s appetite improved, Princess Jiuli went to prepare him food, prompting Lu Yunqi to leave. Prince Huai, known for his reclusive nature, disliked strangers. Seeing his sister leave, he claimed he needed rest and dismissed Jun Jiuling.

Unbeknownst to him, Jun Jiuling left the room and hid in a corner, crying in agony, praying for her brother's swift recovery and promising to return for him. When Princess Jiuli brought a large bowl of noodle soup and other dishes, Jun Jiuling, secretly fearing poison, meticulously inspected each dish under the pretext of checking for conflicts with the Prince’s medication.

Prince Huai ate with relish, reminiscing about the last time his elder sister had made him noodle soup on her wedding day. Upon learning that Jun Jiuling had successfully treated Prince Huai, a furious Chu Rang believed she had ruined his plans. However, Lu Yunqi argued that the Prince's recovery was advantageous.

He reasoned that if the late emperor’s son died, it would inevitably invite suspicion and tarnish Chu Rang’s reputation, whereas a recovery would earn him praise for his compassion. Convinced, Chu Rang no longer blamed Jun Jiuling. Meanwhile, Zhu Zan and his companions pondered why Lu Yunqi would now advocate for Jun Jiuling, speculating it was either to avoid imperial wrath or to ensure her medical expertise remained available to him.

Days later, seeing Prince Huai’s steady recovery, Lu Yunqi urged Princess Jiuli to return home. As she prepared to leave, Lu Yunqi’s earlier words struck her, and she began to wonder if Jun Jiuling was truly her younger sister reincarnated. The next day, Jun Jiuling took a restless Prince Huai to the courtyard to play on a swing. Lu Yunqi observed their joyful interaction, surprised by the Prince's unusual comfort with Jun Jiuling, as they acted like old acquaintances.

When imperial doctors arrived for a consultation, Lu Yunqi voiced his bewilderment at the pair's closeness. Jun Jiuling gave a brief, evasive answer and left. Imperial Doctor Jiang Youshu confirmed Prince Huai’s full recovery and proposed that the Imperial Academy of Medicine take over his follow-up care. Fearing her brother's health would be jeopardized, Jun Jiuling sternly warned Jiang Youshu, subtly threatening him with the consequences should any negligence occur.

Chen Qi prepared to return to Zezhou, which saddened Fang Jinxiu. Knowing he was hired by her family, she offered to pay double to retain his services, which Chen Qi, feigning indifference, happily accepted. After bidding farewell to Prince Huai, Jun Jiuling returned to her clinic and was alarmed to learn that Fang Chengyu had sent the imperial decree.

She knew that while the decree protected the clinic, it would likely further displease Chu Rang, who was already vexed by her success. Chu Rang had indeed received word of the decree. It amplified his suspicion about Jun Jiuling's connection to the Fang family, but with the imperial seal's whereabouts still a mystery, he decided to observe rather than act rashly. News of Jun Jiuling’s success spread, boosting her clinic's reputation.

Impressed, Ning Yunzhao's uncle nonetheless warned him against entanglement in romance, urging him to focus on his studies and securing a high-ranking position for the Ning family. Not long after, a mother and daughter arrived in the capital, their faces concealed. They sought out the Jiuling Drugstore, and upon reaching the entrance, they removed their veils, revealing faces covered in smallpox, causing the clinic attendant to react in alarm.

Episode 19 Recap

The capital was gripped by fear as a mother and her daughter, their faces covered in smallpox, desperately sought medical help. Doctors, fearing the highly contagious and deadly disease, shuttered their doors and refused them entry, even denying them food. A compassionate old beggar, offering a steamed bun, directed the distraught mother to the Jiuling Drugstore. Meanwhile, Jun Jiuling encountered Ning Yunzhao on the street. He expressed his relief and congratulations for her successful treatment of Prince Huai.

Their brief exchange ended with Jun Jiuling wishing him well for his upcoming exams as she hurried away, leaving Ning Yunzhao content with even a short conversation. Later that night, Zhu Zan discreetly entered Jiuling Drugstore. He brought osmanthus cakes from the Imperial Kitchen, playfully claiming they were a reward for Jun Jiuling's life-saving work on Prince Huai.

He also warned her that the missive she received from her family, intended for protection, might instead make her a greater target in His Majesty's eyes. Before leaving, he lightheartedly requested a rare "Purple Immortal Herb," indicating she now owed him. The next day, upon seeing the mother and daughter, Jun Jiuling immediately recognized their condition as smallpox. She promptly instructed Fang Jinxiu to prepare a room for them and ordered Chen Qi to begin preparing detoxification soup.

Fang Jinxiu noted Jun Jiuling’s unprecedented level of worry, even more so than when she treated Fang Chengyu. The mother recounted how the disease had spread rapidly through their village, leading to many deaths, and how they had been shunned everywhere they went. Jun Jiuling promised to do her utmost to save the daughter, Guo'er. Soon after, chaos erupted as hundreds of smallpox patients flooded into the capital, with numerous medical halls reporting the dire situation to the Imperial Academy.

Witnessing the escalating crisis, Imperial Doctor Jiang Youshu saw an opportunity to destroy Jun Jiuling. He believed that by assigning the incurable smallpox cases to her, she would inevitably fail, bringing about her downfall. He knew from historical records that smallpox outbreaks had often led to countless deaths, and even the destruction of cities and states. During the court assembly, Minister Ning suggested establishing a large location to house the patients and dispatching imperial doctors for treatment.

However, Jiang Youshu dismissed this proposal, citing risks to the imperial doctors and a lack of manpower. Instead, he shockingly recommended gathering all patients for cremation and burial. When this brutal solution was met with horror, the Imperial Academy, furthering Jiang's scheme, recommended Jun Jiuling for the impossible task. At the same time, Zhu Zan arrived, having been entrusted by Jun Jiuling herself, and also boldly recommended Jiuling Drugstore.

Swayed by the turn of events, Emperor Chu Rang issued a decree, giving Jun Jiuling one month to find a cure. He ordered the Arm Moral Department to transfer all patients to Qingshan Court for strict quarantine and declared that if a cure was not found within the month, the court would be set ablaze, burning Jun Jiuling along with the patients.

Privately, Chu Rang told Lu Yunqi this was a strategic move: if Jun Jiuling succeeded, the credit would be his, and if she failed, her death would solve his problem. Even before the imperial decree was issued, Jun Jiuling was already seeking solutions. Acknowledging Jiuling Drugstore's limited resources, she set out with Liu'er to recruit other doctors. She approached Dr. Feng, a bone-setting specialist, who expressed his fear, stating he had no experience with smallpox and could not help.

Dr. Feng later advised her to be less forthcoming about the dangers, suggesting she simply say she was short-staffed to attract help. Jun Jiuling refused to mislead anyone, asserting her commitment to honesty. She argued that medical breakthroughs come from exploration and that a doctor's responsibility is to face a deadly disease head-on, not to abandon the fight. After a long and fruitless day visiting every medical hall in the capital, Jun Jiuling felt a profound sense of despair.

Just as she resigned herself to facing the daunting task alone, Zhu Zan arrived. He acknowledged her struggle and comforted her, vowing that while she fought for the world, he would be by her side. He encouraged her not to cry, reinforcing her calling as someone who "saves the world." Though weary, Jun Jiuling found renewed resolve.

The next morning, as Jun Jiuling prepared to depart for Qingshan Court with Commander Lu Yunqi, Dr. Feng and a group of other doctors rushed forward, declaring their willingness to join her. Lu Yunqi, witnessing this, was visibly moved. In a flashback, Dr. Feng is shown convincing a skeptical Dr. Liu to trust Jun Jiuling's integrity and medical prowess, citing her past successes and her selfless teaching of medical techniques.

He appealed to their professional pride, arguing that even in failure, they would earn a place in history, and if successful, their careers would flourish. Convinced by his impassioned words, doctors from across the city rallied to her side. Deeply touched by their unexpected loyalty, Jun Jiuling bowed to them in sincere gratitude.

Episode 20 Recap

Jun Jiuling, before her departure, meticulously drafted a comprehensive supply list for Shopkeeper Liu of Deshengchang, instructing him to swiftly procure and deliver the items to Qingshan Court. Chen Qi, her loyal attendant, expressed deep concern to Shopkeeper Liu about Lu Yunqi’s presence at Qingshan Court, wishing Zhu Zan were there to protect Miss Jun. Shopkeeper Liu, however, reassured him that Miss Jun would be fine.

Back in the capital, Jiang Youshu, observing Jun Jiuling's remarkable ability to rally numerous doctors from various medical halls to Qingshan Court, acknowledged her profound influence. He then directed other imperial doctors to actively engage with palace officials and lords to assuage the growing public panic and foster support. To gain entry into the heavily guarded Qingshan Court, Zhu Zan sought the assistance of Ning Yunzhao.

Ning Yunzhao's uncle, a minister, subsequently advised the Emperor, highlighting the widespread praise for Dr. Jun Jiuling's efforts. He proposed dispatching a prince or royal kin to Qingshan Court to underscore the imperial family's commitment, believing that Jiuling Drugstore alone couldn't sufficiently bolster public morale. This suggestion sparked a debate among ministers, with some proposing the Third Prince or Prince Xian.

Ultimately, Minister Huang put forth Zhu Zan's name, arguing that despite his past transgressions, Zhu Zan was in the prime of his life, less susceptible to smallpox, and his father, Lord Cheng, was a figure of great renown. Minister Huang asserted that Zhu Zan, though not of royal lineage, was still respectfully addressed as a lordship, making him an ideal representative.

The Emperor accepted this counsel, commissioning Zhu Zan to take charge at Qingshan Court, thereby offering him an opportunity for atonement. Ning Yunzhao personally escorted Zhu Zan out of the city, reminding him that this outcome was a direct result of Zhu Zan's earlier strategic advice to oppose any direct recommendation of himself. As they parted, Ning Yunzhao urged Zhu Zan to ensure Jun Jiuling's safety and well-being.

Inside Qingshan Court, a multitude of smallpox patients suffered, overwhelming Jun Jiuling and her medical team. Despite their tireless efforts, the initial detoxication soup only offered temporary relief, failing to halt the progression of the virulent disease. Doctors observed that most critically ill patients had been infected for over three days, while younger individuals showed more resilience. Jun Jiuling proposed using a new decoction for recent and younger patients, while reserving the "honey and rhizoma cimicifugae" method for severe cases.

That evening, Jun Jiuling convened a meeting with the doctors, where they shared clinical observations and meticulously adjusted prescriptions. Jun Jiuling insisted on personally decocting the medicines to ensure precision. Chen Qi, concerned for her health, brought her ginseng soup, but she selflessly directed him to give it to the other exhausted doctors. Just then, Lu Yunqi arrived, confronting Jun Jiuling and demanding to know why she had falsely reported Prince Huai's condition as scrofula.

As Lu Yunqi's demands grew insistent, Zhu Zan unexpectedly appeared, bearing an imperial decree. Acknowledging the danger, Zhu Zan declared his willingness to fight for the people, deeply moving Jun Jiuling with his courageous decision to stay despite the perilous risk of infection. In the days that followed, the patients' conditions continued to worsen, and the death toll tragically mounted.

Panic escalated throughout Qingshan Court, eroding the hope of even the most resilient, including a mother whose young daughter, Guo'er, was gravely ill. After witnessing another death, Guo'er’s mother, overwhelmed by grief and despair, decided to cease treatment. Jun Jiuling compassionately intervened, reminding the distraught mother that Guo'er's survival hinged on her own unwavering perseverance and that she was her daughter's only light in these dark times. Moved by Jun Jiuling’s words, the mother tearfully agreed to continue the treatment.

However, as more bodies were carried away, the patients’ frustration boiled over into outright anger. They accused Jun Jiuling of deception and incompetence, claiming she had lured them to Qingshan Court under false pretenses and demanded to know what medicines they were truly being given. Jun Jiuling honestly admitted that while they had not yet discovered a definitive cure, they had never ceased their relentless efforts to develop one.

She pleaded for more time, assuring them that every life was held sacred. Zhu Zan then stepped forward, introducing himself as the son of Lord Cheng. He solemnly pledged to remain with them until the epidemic concluded and all patients recovered, successfully quelling their hostility and urging them to return to their beds to recuperate. Following this, Jun Jiuling asked Zhu Zan to inform Lu Yunqi that Deshengchang's deliveries must be allowed passage.

Simultaneously, in Zezhou, Fang Chengyu, having received Jun Jiuling’s urgent message, quickly began procuring large quantities of herbal medicine, money, and most unusually, cattle that had previously contracted smallpox, urging their immediate dispatch to the capital. Meanwhile, Jiang Youshu in the capital attempted to glean information about the dire situation within Qingshan Court. Unable to send his own people due to Lu Yunqi's strict cordon, he contemplated requesting the Emperor to recall Lu Yunqi, hoping this would provide insight.

Inside Qingshan Court, the continued deaths ignited a near mutiny among the doctors, who clamored to return to the capital. Lu Yunqi considered using force to prevent their departure, but Zhu Zan intervened. He recounted Jun Jiuling's philosophy of choosing to save the world through medical ethics and offered a compromise: those who insisted on leaving would be provided clean, separate accommodations until the epidemic subsided, after which he would personally escort them down the mountain.

Jun Jiuling then sincerely thanked the doctors, stating that as long as even one person survived, their efforts held profound meaning. Inspired by her plea and Dr. Feng's renewed commitment, the doctors collectively resolved to stay. Soon after, Shopkeeper Liu from Deshengchang arrived at the foot of the mountain, delivering the requested supplies, including the unusual consignment of cattle, to Zhu Zan and Chen Qi.

Puzzled by the cattle, Zhu Zan wondered if they were for food, but Chen Qi reminded him of the law against slaughtering them. Zhu Zan then concluded that Jun Jiuling must have a specific purpose for them. Later, Zhu Zan and Lu Yunqi had a tense exchange, with Zhu Zan conveying Jun Jiuling's message.

Lu Yunqi, suspicious of the large quantities of honey, rhizoma cimicifugae, and especially liquor being consumed, implied a high death rate and accused Jun Jiuling of operating without transparency. At Qingshan Court, Jun Jiuling revealed her radical new treatment: using scabs from cattle that had recovered from smallpox. She explained that these cattle carried a weakened form of the disease.

Citing ancient records from Lingnan where people who contracted smallpox in childhood survived later epidemics, she theorized that previous exposure might confer immunity. Her proposal involved using the scabs from these recovered cattle to inoculate humans. This, she believed, could offer a definitive cure by allowing individuals to contract a mild, non-fatal version of the disease, thereby building immunity. The other doctors, however, were horrified, deeming the method absurd and a reckless gamble with human lives.

Jun Jiuling acknowledged their concerns, emphasizing the critical first step: to find a healthy individual who had never been exposed to smallpox for a "test inoculation" to prove the method's safety and efficacy.

Episode 21 Recap

Smallpox was rampant outside the capital, with countless deaths reported by clinics. The Imperial Academy of Medicine was skeptical of Jun Jiuling's novel vaccination method, which involved testing on cattle at Qingshan Court. With half a month already passed and no definitive results, ministers grew anxious, fearing that any delay or failure would endanger the entire capital.

His Majesty Chu Rang, unable to wait a full month, issued a secret decree to Lu Yunqi, giving Jun Jiuling a final seven days to find a cure, with a grim instruction if she failed. Despite initial progress with severe patients showing improvement, new cases continued to arrive, overwhelming Qingshan Court. Witnessing the children's suffering, particularly a young patient named Guo'er who offered a protective charm and expressed her brave willingness to be tested, deeply moved Jun Jiuling.

Guo'er's plea to cure her mother, who constantly cried from pain, and her simple trust, cemented Jun Jiuling's resolve. Recalling her own brother of the same age, Jun Jiuling realized that everyone, including herself and Guo'er, needed to be cured to reunite with their families. Unable to bear waiting any longer, and knowing the severity of the situation, Jun Jiuling declared her decision to test the smallpox viruses on herself.

Her attending doctors vehemently protested, stressing the immense danger and her crucial role in leading the efforts. However, Jun Jiuling remained firm, comparing her decision to ancient physicians like Shennong and Hua Tuo, and asserted that it was her duty. That same evening, Zhu Zan, who had unwavering faith in Jun Jiuling's method, appeared and volunteered himself as a test subject, stating he hadn't been exposed to any patients.

Jun Jiuling immediately refused, warning him of the grave risks, even death, as she herself was not entirely confident in the outcome. Zhu Zan, however, insisted that as Lord Cheng's son, it was his duty to lead by example and alleviate the public's fears regarding vaccination. He proposed that she save lives while he reassured the people. Despite his compelling argument, Jun Jiuling remained firm in her refusal, emphasizing that he had other important things to do.

Their argument was interrupted by Lu Yunqi, who arrived claiming to be there under imperial orders to monitor Qingshan Court. Zhu Zan openly mocked Lu Yunqi, accusing him of eavesdropping outside a young woman's room. Ignoring Zhu Zan's taunts, Lu Yunqi presented a bound man as a test subject.

The prisoner, Li Ze, confessed to stealing items from deceased smallpox patients buried in the backyard, intending to sell them, a crime that could potentially spread the disease further into the capital. Despite the severity of his actions, and Li Ze’s desperate pleas for mercy, Jun Jiuling refused to force him into the trial, asserting that vaccination must be voluntary. In response, Lu Yunqi, dismissing Li Ze as a useless criminal, immediately ordered his men to kill him.

Before leaving, Lu Yunqi reiterated the emperor's strict seven-day deadline to Jun Jiuling, reminding her she had no other choice. After Lu Yunqi's departure, Zhu Zan once again urged Jun Jiuling to vaccinate him. He passionately articulated that his father, Lord Cheng, had dedicated his entire life to the nation, and that his inherited integrity extended beyond mere bloodline to a deep commitment to the welfare of all people.

He questioned how he could face the country knowing that while those within the capital were safe from smallpox, people outside faced uncertain death without a preventive measure. He asked Jun Jiuling if she could find peace with such a disparity. Moved by his words and the desperate circumstances, Jun Jiuling finally agreed. She tearfully proceeded to vaccinate Zhu Zan, warning him that once the smallpox viruses were introduced, she would lose control over their progression.

She meticulously cared for him, constantly checking on his condition, peeling oranges when he felt thirsty, and ensuring he rested, while she remained vigilantly by his side. Over the next few days, Zhu Zan developed a fever, but also reassuringly began to show pox marks, which Jun Jiuling's assistant considered a positive sign. Despite her exhaustion from tirelessly attending to both Zhu Zan and the other patients, Jun Jiuling continued her relentless work.

However, the situation remained critical as some patients, contrary to improving, developed alarming new symptoms like foaming at the mouth and convulsions, distinct from typical smallpox. Jun Jiuling swiftly diagnosed these cases as cold diarrhea, adjusting their treatment to use Radix Aucklandiae Powder, demonstrating her adaptive medical expertise in the face of the complex epidemic.

Meanwhile, Lu Yunqi's forces arrived at Qingshan Court, ostensibly as reinforcements, but their true purpose was to prepare for setting the court ablaze should Jun Jiuling fail to meet the deadline. All hope now rested on Zhu Zan, but as his condition rapidly deteriorated, and the pox toxins failed to fully erupt from his body, Jun Jiuling fell into a deep panic. Despite the risk of contagion, she desperately clutched his hand, pouring out her deepest fears and desires.

She pleaded with him to fight for his life, reminding him of his promise to save the people and urging him to wake up, so they could fulfill their shared future, like visiting places and trying different foods. She confessed her profound fear of losing him, despite her own previous encounters with death.

In her anguish, she promised to reveal everything to him if he recovered, recounting the numerous times he had saved her life – from a runaway horse in Zezhou, an assassin in Jinyun Tower, a cliff in Runan, an incident with Yuan Bao, and even when Lu Yunqi caused trouble at her Jiuling Drugstore. Unknown to Jun Jiuling, this intimate and revealing moment was observed by Lu Yunqi.

Fortunately, Zhu Zan survived the critical period, his body now covered in pox marks as the toxins had fully erupted. He awoke to daylight, finding Jun Jiuling by his bedside, looking exhausted. With a playful grin, he teased her about examining his body while he was unconscious. He then shared a vivid nightmare he'd just had: seeing Princess Jiuling engulfed in flames, and wondered aloud about the immense pain she must have endured in that moment.

Though Jun Jiuling pretended not to have heard his earlier emotional outpouring, Zhu Zan's knowing glance implied he had been conscious enough to catch parts of it. Deeply unsettled by Zhu Zan’s words and his implicit awareness, Jun Jiuling excused herself to go prepare medicine. As she stepped out, Lu Yunqi approached and directly confronted her, addressing her as "Chu Jiuling." He declared his belief in reincarnation, asserting that she was undeniably the late princess.

He presented compelling evidence: her refusal to rename the Jiuling Drugstore despite his threats, her handwriting on prescriptions being identical to the princess’s, and her profound worry at Prince Huai’s residence. Although Jun Jiuling initially feigned ignorance, she eventually dropped her pretense. She openly admitted to answering Zhu Zan when he called out "Jiuling" during his delirium, justifying it as a moment of desperation for someone who risked his life for the people.

Tired of the charade, she then challenged Lu Yunqi, asking what it would take for him to let her go. Lu Yunqi, visibly torn between joy and anger, declared that he would never let her go, confirming his deep, almost obsessive, attachment. Jun Jiuling tried to appeal to his reason, stating that the princess was gone and would not wish for him to behave this way, urging him to accept reality and asking if he had ever truly loved anyone.

Meanwhile, news of Zhu Zan's successful vaccination reached Chu Rang, who acknowledged it as a momentous achievement that would undoubtedly save countless lives. Yet, he viewed the Cheng family's growing popularity and integrity with apprehension, noting that Zhu Zan, much like his father Lord Cheng, would likely refuse any substantial rewards, considering his actions merely a duty.

Chu Rang's advisor cunningly pointed out that such deeply principled and popular figures were, in fact, the most formidable, stirring the Emperor's underlying unease about the Cheng family's influence. At Qingshan Court, under Jun Jiuling's precise guidance, doctors began carefully collecting pox scabs from Zhu Zan's body, which were deemed safer for trials. Zhu Zan, now fully recovered, playfully teased Jun Jiuling while she worked, acknowledging her tireless efforts.

She informed him that while the method proved successful for adults, it still required further testing on children due to their differing physiology. Zhu Zan immediately volunteered again to provide samples, understanding the importance of their work for all. Jun Jiuling instructed the doctors to specifically select "waxy, big, and thick" pox marks for the subsequent trials on children. Following his successful vaccination, Zhu Zan promptly sought an audience with Chu Rang.

Initially hesitant due to the perceived risk of contagion, Chu Rang allowed Zhu Zan to enter after he assured the Emperor he was no longer infectious. Zhu Zan did not ask for rewards but instead made a plea: to take Zhou Bentang's descendants, who were on death row for treason, to Qingshan Court to serve as subjects for the child vaccination trials.

Chu Rang was troubled by the idea of sparing the descendants of a traitor and suggested buying children from the market instead. However, Zhu Zan meticulously explained that only Zhou Bentang's descendants met Jun Jiuling's requirement for subjects under ten years old among the condemned, and that using healthy children from the market was unethical and could damage the Emperor's reputation if the trials failed.

He further argued that having condemned children contribute to saving others would give their otherwise doomed lives greater meaning. Chu Rang, seeing an opportunity to earn Zhu Zan's gratitude and project an image of imperial benevolence, ultimately granted the request. Meanwhile, back at Qingshan Court, as Jun Jiuling prepared more restorative medicine, Lu Yunqi confronted her again. He accused Zhu Zan of defying imperial orders by leaving Qingshan Court without authorization, an offense punishable by death.

When Jun Jiuling claimed ignorance of Zhu Zan’s whereabouts, Lu Yunqi, having overheard parts of her earlier conversation, shrewdly deduced that Zhu Zan had indeed gone to find child volunteers for the vaccination trials. Enraged, he threatened Jun Jiuling and all the doctors present, accusing them of insubordination and warning that they would all face death for assisting Zhu Zan in defying the imperial will.

Episode 22 Recap

Lu Yunqi and his men arrived at Qingshan Court, intending to apprehend Zhu Zan for his unauthorized departure. As Lu Yunqi's men prepared to take action, Jun Jiuling confronted him, pointing out his own culpability as the imperial guard if Zhu Zan was missing. Just then, Zhu Zan appeared, returning with an imperial decree that rendered Lu Yunqi powerless to intervene. Zhu Zan then revealed he had brought two young boys, Zhou Jing and Maomao, from the death cell.

He explained to the bewildered crowd that these children were the descendants of Grand Guardian Zhou Bentang, who had been falsely accused of treason. Zhu Zan had obtained an imperial decree promising them a pardon from their death sentence if they successfully underwent the smallpox vaccination, which was a dangerous process. Both Zhou Jing and Maomao, despite the risks, bravely volunteered for the vaccination, expressing their trust in Jun Jiuling.

Jun Jiuling, in turn, vowed to protect them, alongside the other doctors, to honor Zhu Zan's perilous efforts in rescuing them. Witnessing this, Lu Yunqi dismissed his men, abandoning his plan to burn the court. That evening, Zhu Zan visited Jun Jiuling, expressing his concern for her well-being, noting how she had not rested for days.

He brought her a bowl of ginseng soup he had personally prepared, admitting he couldn't sleep while she was risking her life for the vaccination. Jun Jiuling, despite finding the soup to be the worst she had ever tasted, cherished the gesture and thanked him. Zhu Zan, in turn, playfully warned her not to develop feelings for him, highlighting the growing closeness and unspoken affection between them after their shared ordeal. Soon, the patients at Qingshan Court fully recovered.

Overwhelmed with gratitude, they bowed deeply and thanked Jun Jiuling, Zhu Zan, and all the doctors for their benevolent efforts, attributing their recovery to the doctors' skills and their own trust. Zhu Zan humbly redirected their praise to the doctors, calling them the true saviors, while Jun Jiuling emphasized that the patients' health was the greatest reward. With heartfelt goodbyes, the cured patients departed for their homes.

Meanwhile, Jun Jiuling chose to return to the capital discreetly, avoiding the grand welcome orchestrated by Zhu Zan, as she disliked such public displays. She knew that the success of the vaccination had already brought immense renown to Jiuling Drugstore. News of Jiuling Drugstore's breakthrough spread rapidly, attracting people from distant regions like Runan and Zezhou, who traveled to the capital seeking vaccination. This surge in popularity infuriated the imperial doctors, who had initially scoffed at Jun Jiuling's methods.

Imperial Doctor Jiang Youshu, observing the situation, suggested that the Imperial Academy of Medicine seize control of the vaccination project. He proposed that local doctors should come to the capital to learn the method under Jun Jiuling's supervision, believing that Jun Jiuling, a mere commoner, would be too intimidated to refuse such a request when summoned by the Emperor.

Chu Rang soon summoned Jun Jiuling to the palace to bestow a reward, eager to assess the woman who had garnered such widespread acclaim. Jun Jiuling knew this visit was a perilous gamble, yet it was a moment she had long anticipated – an opportunity to confront the emperor, her father's murderer. That night, as she rode with Zhu Zan, he sensed her deep-seated unease.

He probed her, asking about her true purpose for entering the palace, noting her mysterious demeanor. Jun Jiuling finally confided in him, revealing her unwavering intention to avenge Princess Jiuling and her father. Zhu Zan, touched by her trust, vowed to stand by her, promising to support her in all her endeavors without question. Buoyed by this newfound closeness, Zhu Zan took Jun Jiuling to a beautiful outdoor location, where fireflies illuminated the night sky.

He was deeply moved by the sight, even reciting a poem. However, Jun Jiuling remained practical, observing that the plant Sedum could be used for medicinal purposes, specifically for the liver and eyes. Her pragmatic comment, focusing on the plant's medicinal properties rather than the romantic ambiance, somewhat surprised Zhu Zan, who noted she was "not an ordinary woman." Jun Jiuling then playfully inquired what an "ordinary woman" was like, before commenting on the beauty of the fireflies.

On the day of her imperial audience, Jun Jiuling, despite her apparent calm, requested Dr. Feng to accompany her, acknowledging that there were aspects of the court she could not navigate alone. Upon entering the assembly hall, Jun Jiuling greeted Emperor Chu Rang with composure. Chu Rang lauded her success in eradicating smallpox in Qingshan Court, equating it to a significant military victory and crediting her as the primary contributor.

Jun Jiuling humbly attributed the success to a combination of divine favor, the court's support, the suitable location of Qingshan Court, and the collective efforts of the doctors and Zhu Zan. Imperial Doctor Jiang Youshu then stepped forward, seeking to leverage her success. He proposed that the Imperial Academy of Medicine take charge of the vaccination, with doctors from across the realm traveling to the capital to learn the method from Jun Jiuling, who would then certify them.

Jun Jiuling, however, firmly disagreed. She explained that the vaccination method could only be learned through practical experience, not mere verbal instruction, a process the imperial doctors had not yet undergone. To ensure proper training and widespread adoption without compromising quality, Jun Jiuling boldly recommended Dr. Feng, a highly respected and experienced physician who had played a crucial role in the recent smallpox treatment.

She suggested that Dr. Feng oversee the training and assessment of doctors from local governments, citing her own youth and Dr. Feng's superior experience as reasons for her recommendation. Chu Rang, impressed by her judiciousness, assented to her proposal, appointing her to supervise Dr. Feng's work. Impressed by Jun Jiuling's insightful and composed demeanor, Chu Rang granted her proposal but also grew wary of her balanced nature.

Jun Jiuling, sensing his suspicion, decided to act, requesting a small favor—a noble title, not for wealth, but to honor her ancestors' dedication to medicine. Her request caused an uproar among the court officials, who deemed it audacious for a mere physician. However, Chu Rang surprisingly agreed, bestowing upon her the title of "County Princess Shanyang." This act seemed to alleviate some of the court's initial skepticism.

After the audience, Jun Jiuling emerged from the palace to find Zhu Zan, Zhou Jing, and Maomao waiting. She informed the children that arrangements had been made for them to leave the capital for another province. Seeing Jun Jiuling's reluctance to part, Zhang Baotang light-heartedly suggested she adopt them as her sons. Immediately, Zhou Jing and Maomao called her "adopted mother" and then, spotting Zhu Zan, declared him their "adopted father," much to his playful chagrin.

As the children departed in a carriage, Jun Jiuling was overcome with emotion, tearfully acknowledging that this separation was for their safety and future. Despite granting her a title, Chu Rang remained suspicious of Jun Jiuling, seeking Lu Yunqi's assessment of her behavior in court.

Lu Yunqi, intent on protecting Jun Jiuling, falsely claimed that her composure and request for a title were merely a facade, arguing that her usual demeanor was much more impolite and that her desire for power made her less of a threat. While Chu Rang continued to ponder Jun Jiuling's true nature, the vaccination program progressed smoothly, with most royal children vaccinated and local doctors completing their training.

Simultaneously, news spread that Ning Yunzhao had excelled in the imperial examinations, a feat that led Jun Jiuling to send him a congratulatory gift. Upon receiving it, Ning Yunzhao reflected on her sincerity, admitting she surpassed him. Later, Chu Rang officially announced the palace exam results, declaring Ning Yunzhao the top scholar.

Episode 23 Recap

With the palace examination concluded, Ning Yunzhao successfully became the new No. 1 Scholar. Meanwhile, Lu Yunqi dispatched someone to invite Jun Jiuling to treat Prince Huai, known as Jiurong. After Jun Jiuling confirmed Jiurong’s health, she proceeded to vaccinate him. She meticulously explained the procedure, assuring Jiurong it might itch slightly but that he must try not to sneeze. Jiurong bravely complied.

Jun Jiuling then offered to stay and assist with his care that night, an offer Lu Yunqi gratefully accepted. Later, Lu Yunqi’s subordinate, Gu Qing, questioned why Jun Jiuling was called for a follow-up given Jiurong’s recent good health, but Lu Yunqi dismissed his concerns.

Princess Jiuli, Jiurong's elder sister, warmly thanked Jun Jiuling, and to confirm her inner guess, cordially held her hand and subtly probed her personal situation, noting Jun Jiuling’s profound care for Jiurong and Jiurong’s unusual closeness to her, observing that Jiurong did not easily trust others. Jun Jiuling attributed their bond to mutual affinity.

Internally, Jun Jiuling wondered if Princess Jiuli was subtly probing her identity, feeling the urge to reveal herself to her sister and Jiurong but knowing it was not yet the right moment. She excused herself, feigning the need to decoct herbs. Princess Jiuli suggested Jun Jiuling stay on to continue caring for Jiurong, especially since Gu Qing had taken leave.

Lu Yunqi, before departing for the palace, agreed with Princess Jiuli’s suggestion, noting the evident affinity between Jun Jiuling and Jiurong. Jun Jiuling, having not brought a change of clothes, was offered some old garments by Princess Jiuli. Though initially hesitant, deeming them too noble, Jun Jiuling accepted. She recognized one of the dresses as her former self, Chu Jiuling's, favorite, a piece Princess Jiuli had personally embroidered for her.

She questioned whether this was a deliberate test or mere coincidence, but decided to wear it, confident in her current changed appearance. Princess Jiuli complimented her, remarking that the dress fit her perfectly. Later, Jiurong, waking from a dream, mistakenly called Jun Jiuling his "second sister," distressed that someone else was wearing her clothes.

Jun Jiuling tried to explain his error and offered to remove the dress, but Princess Jiuli intervened, stating it was the only memento left by her late sister and asking Jun Jiuling to keep wearing it and leave it behind when she departed. Unable to suppress her emotions at the bittersweet reunion, Jun Jiuling fought back tears and quickly left, unaware that her departing back confirmed Lu Yunqi's suspicions about her identity.

Concurrently, Zhu Zan, seeking to alleviate the tax burden on the capital's populace, took Prince Xian, his twelfth uncle, who usually disregarded state affairs, on a tour of the city. He aimed for Prince Xian to witness the common people's plight firsthand, such as a pancake vendor struggling to earn enough to pay taxes. Zhu Zan hoped Prince Xian, who held significant sway within the royal family, would speak to Emperor Chu Rang and influence tax policy.

Their discussion was interrupted when Zhang Baotang hastily arrived, informing Zhu Zan that Lu Yunqi intended to take Jun Jiuling as his concubine and had sent betrothal gifts to Jiuling Drugstore. Enraged, Zhu Zan immediately headed there, intending to smash the gifts. Upon returning to Jiuling Drugstore, Jun Jiuling was confronted by Liu'er and Fang Jinxiu, who were outraged by the large boxes of precious gifts.

They informed her that Lu Yunqi had sent them to propose marriage, specifically to take her as his concubine. They expressed concern that this public gesture, especially after her involvement with Prince Huai’s treatment and her prior public dispute with Lu Yunqi, would severely tarnish her reputation, leading people to believe she had conspired with him all along.

Jun Jiuling understood Lu Yunqi’s true intention was not to marry her, but to ruin her good name and prevent her from treating noblewomen. She resolutely decided to return the gifts publicly, not discreetly, to directly confront Lu Yunqi’s attempt to defame her.

She instructed Chen Qi to take an imperial decree and return all the gifts, along with the previous 8,000 taels of silver note, to Lu Yunqi’s mansion immediately, stating there was no need for civility as their ties were already broken. Zhu Zan arrived at the drugstore, intent on smashing the betrothal gifts. Jun Jiuling, amused by his furious demeanor, calmly informed him that she had already sent them back.

Zhu Zan expressed his willingness to have personally smashed them, knowing he would face no repercussions, but worried for her staff’s safety. Jun Jiuling, however, assured him that she had everything under control. Chen Qi, armed with an imperial decree, confidently arrived at Lu Yunqi’s mansion. He brazenly instructed his porters to unload the gift boxes at the entrance, returning them along with the 8,000 taels.

Jin Shiba, a deputy commander under Lu Yunqi, was enraged by Chen Qi’s defiance and drew his sword. However, Lu Yunqi, recognizing the imperial decree, ordered Jin Shiba and his men to stand down. He then calmly told Chen Qi to convey a message to Jun Jiuling: "Days are long." Chen Qi departed feeling triumphant, relishing his success.

Back at Jiuling Drugstore, Jun Jiuling and her staff anxiously awaited Chen Qi’s return, breathing a sigh of relief only when he arrived safely. Chen Qi recounted how he had sensed Lu Yunqi's helplessness, while Fang Jinxiu playfully suggested Lu Yunqi might have seen resolve in Chen Qi's eyes. Liu'er reassured them that Jun Jiuling's reputation, especially as County Princess Shanyang, could not be easily slandered by Lu Yunqi.

Zhang Baotang and Li Sanbing praised Jun Jiuling's exceptional courage in using the imperial decree to publicly reject the marriage proposal. Li Sanbing then shared somber news: Minister Wan, a loyal official, and his entire family had been executed after being falsely accused of embezzlement by Huang Cheng's son, Junior Huang. It was revealed that Minister Wan had previously accused Junior Huang of the same crime, but his memorial was suppressed, and he was ultimately framed.

Fortunately, Minister Wan's granddaughter had escaped, and Zhu Zan was secretly investigating her whereabouts to avoid alerting the Wu De Si. Later, Princess Jiuli confronted Lu Yunqi about his continued pursuit of Jun Jiuling despite her rejection. Lu Yunqi dismissed her concerns, stating that people often do things they don't want to do, and that his "approval" was honor enough for a woman.

Princess Jiuli then inquired if he no longer wished to see Princess Jiuling, implying his obsession stemmed from Jun Jiuling's striking resemblance to her. Lu Yunqi admitted the resemblance was indeed extraordinary, but firmly declared he would never give up on Jun Jiuling.

Episode 24 Recap

Following Jun Jiuling's previous rejection and return of his betrothal gifts, Lu Yunqi's obsession with her deepened. Despite Chu Jiuli having heard about Jiuling Drugstore's refusal of the betrothal, Lu Yunqi, utterly infatuated, used the pretense of Jiurong suffering from a high fever to send for Miss Jun to visit his mansion for a consultation, intending to confine her there indefinitely.

Upon her arrival, Lu Yunqi admitted that Prince Huai was merely fishing and that his invitation was a pretext to keep her confined. Prince Huai's younger sister, Jiurong, then confronted Miss Jun, accusing her of seducing her brother-in-law and bullying her elder sister, Jiuli. Jiurong vehemently told Miss Jun to leave. However, Miss Jun embraced Jiurong, who, in that moment, felt as if she were in the arms of her deceased second sister, Chu Jiuling, leaving her stunned.

Miss Jun clarified that while she was not Jiurong's second sister, she and Princess Jiuling had been good friends, and Princess Jiuling had asked her to take good care of Jiurong. She swore to Jiurong that she would never harm her or her sister, Jiuli, in this lifetime. This sincerity led Jiurong to trust Miss Jun and not press her further.

Soon after, rumors spread throughout the capital that Miss Jun had safely left Prince Huai's Mansion because Lu Yunqi had not troubled her, with some even claiming he truly loved her. Fueling the gossip, Lu Yunqi once again dispatched betrothal presents to Jiuling Drugstore, deliberately creating a stir in the capital. This angered Zhu Zan.

When Lu Yunqi dispatched betrothal presents to Jiuling Drugstore once more, Zhu Zan intercepted them, kicking over the gifts and confronting Lu Yunqi at the gate of Arm Moral Department. Their brawl quickly drew a large crowd and even caught the attention of the palace, prompting Yuan Bao to arrive and intervene. Zhu Zan publicly chastised Lu Yunqi for his shamelessness, accusing him of attempting a forced marriage by sending presents without Miss Jun's consent.

Lu Yunqi retorted, asserting that Zhu Zan, as an outsider, had no right to interfere in his marriage proposal to Miss Jun. As Zhu Zan struggled for a response, Ning Yunzhao, the new No. 1 Scholar, unexpectedly appeared. Without hesitation, he boldly declared that Jun Jiuling was his fiancée, with whom he had been engaged since childhood in Zezhou.

He publicly affirmed their engagement was still valid and announced his intention to marry her soon, also thanking Zhu Zan for his assistance. The spectacle of three prominent men of the capital city brawling over the female doctor from Jiuling Drugstore quickly became the talk of the town, leading many to believe that Jun Jiuling's reputation was ruined, regardless of her achievements. Ning Yunzhao later visited Miss Jun to explain the day's events.

He admitted he had no other recourse in the urgent situation but to use their past engagement as a shield, without expecting her to fulfill it. He offered to clarify the situation if it caused her any inconvenience. Miss Jun understood his kind intentions, but expressed concern that she had implicated him, especially as the new No. 1 Scholar. Ning Yunzhao brushed aside her concerns, viewing his actions as a repayment of the Ning family's past debt to her.

Meanwhile, deeply disheartened by the day's events, Zhu Zan, accompanied by Zhang Baotang and Li Sanbing, drowned his sorrows in drink. Zhang Baotang wondered aloud what Zhu Zan would have said if Ning Yunzhao hadn't intervened, but both he and Li Sanbing exchanged knowing glances, implying they already knew the answer. That night, a drunken Zhu Zan sought out Miss Jun, demanding to know how many husbands she had.

Miss Jun patiently listed Fang Chengyu as the first, then Ning Yunzhao as the second, and alluded to a third whom he had already seen (implicitly Lu Yunqi). Misunderstanding, Zhu Zan assumed she meant him and jokingly warned her not to entertain such thoughts, claiming he already had a sweetheart and listing his own admirable qualities.

Amused and exasperated by his drunken behavior, Miss Jun tried to get him some tea to sober him up and urge him to leave, but he refused, insisted on staying if she didn't reveal the third name, took off his outer clothes, and fell asleep on the bed. The next morning, Miss Jun remained by his bedside.

When Zhu Zan awoke, clearly disoriented, she playfully teased him about being in her room after his unannounced visit in the middle of the night. He, having no memory of his drunken antics, even suggested if she expected him to take responsibility, while she playfully recounted his questions about her "husbands" and his claim of having a sweetheart.

Soon after, Zhang Baotang and Li Sanbing arrived, mocking Zhu Zan for his astonishing drinking capacity that led him to Miss Jun's bedroom. After their playful banter, they turned to serious matters, discussing Wan Qing, an orphan of the Wan family. Recent inquiries revealed Wan Qing had been seen in Nanyuan Town, about 20 miles from the capital, but then disappeared.

Zhu Zan speculated she was either captured by the Arm Moral Department or had risked coming to the capital to avenge her family. He dispatched Zhang Baotang to discreetly investigate the imperial prison, noting that Lu Yunqi might keep her in a hidden prison or execute her on the spot if captured.

Li Sanbing was tasked with using Yunxiao Pavilion's resources to search for her throughout the capital, specifically around Huang Cheng and his son, to intercept her before she could act on her own and risk her life. The news of the new No. 1 Scholar's engagement caused a stir within the Ning family.

Ning Yunzhao's servant cautioned him about the potential for future conflict between Miss Jun and his mother, Mrs. Ning, explaining that Mrs. Ning already disliked Miss Jun and would undoubtedly blame her for the current situation, not Ning Yunzhao. Ning Yunzhao's uncle, Ning Yan, acknowledged that while Ning Yunzhao's actions were well-intentioned, the public now assumed Miss Jun was the Ning family's daughter-in-law, making it impossible to deny the engagement without severe consequences.

He advised not only accepting the engagement as real but also to first announce Ning Yunzhao's success as the No. 1 Scholar, and then keep the engagement matter secret from Mrs. Ning, who was eagerly awaiting to arrange a marriage for him, for as long as possible, citing the sensitive nature of the information and the potential for the Arm Moral Department's interference. In Zezhou, the Fang family also received the news.

Fang Chengyu’s grandmother worried about Mrs. Ning's reaction if she learned the truth, while Fang Chengyu believed Ning Yunzhao's announcement was a mere formality and not a genuine commitment. However, Fang Chengyu's second sister argued that Ning Yunzhao's help was sincere and a clever, reasonable way to resolve Miss Jun's predicament.

In response, the grandmother and mother still harbored deep resentment from previous incidents, such as the broken engagement, the public ridicule of Ning Yunzhao's "price," and the Jinyun Tower affair, asserting that Mrs. Ning would never accept Miss Jun. They concluded that Miss Jun, being clever and resourceful, must have orchestrated the entire plan with Ning Yunzhao.

Episode 25 Recap

Fang Chengyu reflected on his newfound maturity, expressing contentment that Jun Jiuling was loved and protected, even if it wasn't by him. His sister, Mrs. Fang, observed his growth but still voiced concerns about the Ning family's acceptance of Jun Jiuling, especially after the previously dissolved engagement had become public knowledge. The Ning household buzzed with excitement as congratulations poured in for Ning Yunzhao, who had achieved the status of No. 1 Scholar.

Among the visitors was Mrs. Ma, who subtly implied two causes for celebration. Mrs. Ning, initially bewildered, was then shocked to learn that Ning Yunzhao had publicly declared his engagement to Miss Jun was still valid, and they intended to marry upon returning to their hometown. Despite Mrs. Ning's attempts to dismiss this as a misunderstanding, the public seemed to embrace the news. Jun Jiuling made a deliberate appearance during Ning Yunzhao's victory parade.

She explained to her companion that she felt obligated to support him publicly as he had publicly defended her. Moreover, she hoped that by creating a larger stir, Lu Yunqi would become more wary of her. Amidst the celebrations, Zhu Zan, observing the scene with his companions Li Sanbing and Baotang, displayed clear signs of irritation, repeatedly scoffing at suggestions regarding Jiuling and Ning Yunzhao.

Later, Zhu Zan and his companions discussed their unsuccessful search for Wan Qing, the last surviving member of the Wan family. Li Sanbing suggested Zhu Zan's recent agitated behavior stemmed from his affection for Dr. Jun, leading him to believe she might become His Lordship's wife. Zhu Zan vehemently denied this, stating that he wanted Jiuling to live freely.

He even declared that if she truly resembled the princess, she deserved a princely life, questioning why she should even be alive if Princess Jiuling was already gone. Meanwhile, Lu Yunqi's obsession with Jun Jiuling intensified, leading him to consider ruining her if he could not possess her. During one of Jun Jiuling's consultations at Minister Wang's mansion, officials from the Arm Moral Department burst in.

They accused Minister Wang of corruption and conducted a search without a warrant, despite Jiuling's protestations as a healer. Jiuling noted this was a recurring pattern, with officials like Scholar Han also being targeted during her visits. Concluding that Lu Yunqi was deliberately orchestrating these events to inconvenience her, Jiuling decided to confront him directly. When she met Lu Yunqi, she accused him of making her life difficult and harming innocent people.

He openly admitted his actions were driven by his affection and sincere desire to marry her, dismissing her existing engagement. Jiuling, reminding him of her duty as a healer, warned him against involving innocent lives in his schemes. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Huang's son, Huang Ziqing, notorious for his arrogance and corrupt practices, moved through the city with a large entourage.

Minister Tang met with Huang Ziqing, complaining that Minister He had again blocked their memorial to impeach Lord Cheng for alleged collusion with Beiqi. Huang Ziqing promised to report the matter to his father, stating the Emperor would ultimately decide. Jun Jiuling, observing from a distance, recognized a flower seller as Wan Qing, the granddaughter of Wan Dachun, and realized she intended to assassinate Huang Ziqing, a seemingly suicidal act.

As Huang Ziqing prepared for a banquet, Wan Qing deliberately fell, drawing his attention. Seizing the moment, she stabbed him in the chest. Huang Ziqing’s guards quickly retaliated, severely injuring Wan Qing. Prime Minister Huang rushed to the scene, frantic for his son. Imperial doctors present declared Huang Ziqing's injury fatal if the knife, lodged near his heart, were removed, stating their inability to help.

Hearing that Dr. Jun of Jiuling Drugstore possessed miraculous healing abilities, Prime Minister Huang, desperate, knelt before Jun Jiuling, begging her to save his only son and promising her immense wealth. Wan Qing, bleeding and in pain, pleaded with Jiuling not to save Huang Ziqing, screaming that she had avenged her family and that he deserved to die. Torn but compelled by the public’s expectation, Jun Jiuling accepted the daunting task.

As Jun Jiuling approached Huang Ziqing, Wan Qing continued to beg her, warning that saving him would make Jiuling an accomplice to his future atrocities. Zhu Zan, witnessing the unfolding drama, realized the immense burden of public criticism Jiuling would face if she saved Huang Ziqing, and the countless lives that would be lost if he lived. He also understood the political ramifications for Lord Cheng given Prime Minister Huang's animosity.

Acting decisively, Zhu Zan startled a horse, causing it to trample Huang Ziqing, killing him instantly. Prime Minister Huang, enraged and grief-stricken, directly accused Zhu Zan of intentionally killing his son. Prime Minister Huang immediately went to the palace, accusing Zhu Zan before Emperor Chu Rang and demanding severe punishment, even claiming Zhu Zan had retaliated against his family. The Emperor, having received numerous memorials impeaching Lord Cheng, quickly ordered Zhu Zan's arrest.

Lu Yunqi, also summoned, corroborated seeing a frightened horse and Zhu Zan subduing it, but avoided directly implicating Zhu Zan in causing the fright. Despite other ministers' pleas for a thorough investigation due to the sensitive nature of the case, the Emperor, influenced by Prime Minister Huang's fury and Lu Yunqi's testimony, ordered Zhu Zan confined to the imperial prison, subjected to one hundred cudgels, and later beheaded without a joint trial.

In the infamous imperial prison, Zhu Zan endured a brutal flogging of one hundred cudgels, remaining silent for much of it. A sadistic prison doctor, known as "Ghost Hand," eagerly anticipated inflicting further torment. Lu Yunqi visited Zhu Zan, hinting that his actions were unnecessary. Meanwhile, Jun Jiuling, having secretly given Wan Qing a pill to feign death, instructed Baotang and Li Sanbing to ensure Wan Qing's escape from the city.

Concerned for Zhu Zan, whom she realized had risked his life to protect her from the repercussions of saving Huang Ziqing, Jun Jiuling soon welcomed Prince Xian to her drugstore. Prince Xian, feigning illness, subtly indicated his true purpose was related to Zhu Zan, as they were close friends. Jun Jiuling agreed to visit his mansion to attend to his household, seizing the opportunity to gather information or devise a plan to aid Zhu Zan.

Episode 26 Recap

After Prime Minister Huang impeached Lord Cheng and his son Zhu Zan, others gradually left the palace. Knowing that the Huang family would not spare Wan Qing, Jun Jiuling ensured Wan Qing took a breathing-suspending pill and entrusted Li Sanbing and Zhang Baotang to transport her out of the city safely. With Zhu Zan now held captive in the Arm Moral Department, his fate uncertain, Jun Jiuling calmed her companions, urging them against impulsive action.

Their immediate priority was to gather information on his condition. Prince Xian then unexpectedly arrived at Jiuling Drugstore, using his concubine's illness as a pretext to invite Jun Jiuling to his residence for a consultation. Although outsiders perceived Prince Xian, also known as Twelfth Uncle, as merely an arrogant and extravagant playboy, Jun Jiuling knew he was once a diligent and ambitious scholar.

His pretense of being a frivolous royal was a shrewd strategy for self-preservation, ensuring Chu Rang would drop his guard and avoid familial conflict, unlike what happened to her own father. Jun Jiuling silently pondered if her younger brother, Jiurong, might face a similar fate.

Once Prince Xian's concubines had departed, Jun Jiuling boldly surmised that his visit to Jiuling Drugstore was at Zhu Zan's behest, meant to bolster her medical reputation and to express gratitude for her successful treatment of Prince Huai. Though Prince Xian initially denied being directed by Zhu Zan, Jun Jiuling pressed, noting that his visit, while popular with the public, went against His Majesty's wishes, confirming his sincerity and risk.

She then appealed to him, requesting that he find a way to save Zhu Zan, as she herself had urgent matters that necessitated her departure from the capital. Prince Xian, acknowledging her cure of Prince Huai as a great service, implicitly agreed to help. Jun Jiuling cautioned him against directly involving Lu Yunqi or approaching Chu Rang about Zhu Zan's situation, as it would inevitably arouse Chu Rang’s suspicion, explaining that his visit to her clinic was already conspicuous enough.

Upon learning that Zhu Zan was being brutally flogged in the Arm Moral Department, Jun Jiuling restrained Zhang Baotang and Li Sanbing from attempting a futile rescue. She resolved to confront Lu Yunqi herself. When she arrived, Lu Yunqi greeted her with a chilling composure, revealing his expectation of her visit and his desire to control her.

Jun Jiuling confronted him about Zhu Zan's torture, reminding him that Zhu Zan was Lord Cheng's son and that torturing him without a proper hearing would be difficult to justify politically. Lu Yunqi, however, expressed his anger at her concern for another man. Jun Jiuling adamantly declared she was not Princess Jiuling, but merely a replacement for her in his eyes.

She then shrewdly pointed out that Zhu Zan’s death would not serve Prime Minister Huang's interests, but rather provoke Lord Cheng and concern Chu Rang. She proposed a deal: if Lu Yunqi ensured Zhu Zan's survival, she would immediately leave the capital. Lu Yunqi accepted the terms and allowed her access to the imperial prison to treat Zhu Zan. His subordinate noted that with Jun Jiuling out of the capital, she would be easier to control.

Inside the imperial prison, the sounds of suffering echoed. Zhu Zan, severely injured, had been enduring agonizing pain, clinging to life by a thread. Jun Jiuling, her heart aching, tearfully applied medicine, scolding him for his reckless actions. She questioned if he had considered the severe repercussions for Lord Cheng and the people of the North should they become entangled.

She revealed her deal with Lu Yunqi to save him, explaining that she needed to depart the capital after treating his wounds. Zhu Zan vehemently opposed her decision, warning her of Lu Yunqi’s vast and complex network that would make escape impossible, and expressing his inability to protect her while imprisoned. Jun Jiuling, however, was resolute, urging him to simply survive, for his life was essential to their future plans.

Meanwhile, Prince Xian visited Chu Rang, trying to subtly intercede for Zhu Zan. He adopted his usual frivolous persona, praising Zhu Zan's prowess in pleasure-seeking activities and suggesting that Zhu Zan should be spared to become his personal companion for entertainment. Chu Rang, initially surprised by Prince Xian being the first to plead for Zhu Zan, dismissed the request, citing the serious implications and telling Prince Xian to mind his own business, though he offered him money.

Unbeknownst to Prince Xian, Chu Rang had never truly intended to kill Zhu Zan, considering Lord Cheng's influence. Instead, he used the incident to gauge the loyalty of his court. He was dismayed that no official dared to speak on Zhu Zan's behalf, which ironically made him wary of Prime Minister Huang's growing power, seeing it as a potential threat.

Despite his stated intentions, Lu Yunqi, driven by personal vendetta, secretly instructed Ghost Hand to inflict various tortures on Zhu Zan. Chu Rang, aware of Lu Yunqi’s actions, turned a blind eye but explicitly warned him not to take Zhu Zan’s life. Jun Jiuling then gathered her companions at Jiuling Drugstore to announce her impending departure from the capital.

She entrusted the management of the drugstore to Fang Jinxiu, instructing her to continue selling medicine but cease offering consultations, thus minimizing potential disputes. Fang Jinxiu, concerned for Jun Jiuling’s safety, arranged for Chen Qi to escort Jun Jiuling and Liu'er back to Zezhou, ensuring they would have protection on their journey. Jun Jiuling explained that her decision to leave was not born of fear, but of a strategic retreat.

She cited historical examples of famous doctors who gained popular support only to be killed by powerful figures, acknowledging that Jiuling Drugstore's rising fame could attract unwanted attention from Lu Yunqi. By no longer providing diagnoses and only selling medicine, she hoped to mitigate future conflicts, seeing it as a tactical withdrawal to gain an advantage.

She reiterated her trust in Prince Xian and instructed Fang Jinxiu to seek his help if any difficulties arose, also mentioning that she had informed Fang Chengyu to ensure Deshengchang provided assistance. She also reminded Fang Jinxiu that, in this world, everything can be abandoned except human life. On the day of their departure, Jun Jiuling and Liu'er found no interference from the Arm Moral Department, leading them to believe that someone, likely arranged by Zhu Zan, had diverted them.

Jun Jiuling herself speculated that Lu Yunqi, having received her letter, would honor their agreement and convince Prime Minister Huang to spare Zhu Zan. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Huang, realizing Chu Rang's true intentions through Lu Yunqi's hints, became fearful. He immediately entered the palace to plead for Zhu Zan, asserting that his son's death was an accident caused by a startled horse and not Zhu Zan's fault, thus absolving him.

Chu Rang, sensing Prime Minister Huang’s attempt to consolidate power and protect himself, agreed to his suggestion. He ordered Zhu Zan to be transferred to the Livestock Office to care for horses and reflect on his actions. This decision both saved Prime Minister Huang's reputation and served as a lesson for Zhu Zan. Having endured his imprisonment, Zhu Zan, mindful of Jun Jiuling's words to survive, was finally released.

Before leaving, he flung a defiant parting remark at Lu Yunqi and departed with a smile. Ghost Hand, witnessing Zhu Zan's rapid recovery and ability to walk within days, marveled at Jun Jiuling's exceptional medical skills. News of Jun Jiuling's impending return to Zezhou thrilled Fang Chengyu, who decided to travel ahead to a post station to await her.

Meanwhile, Jun Jiuling visited the tomb of her master, Jun Yingwen, by herself, confiding in him about the year's trials and growth, her unwavering resolve to seek justice from Chu Rang, and a newfound connection between the Zezhou secret her master entrusted to her and the Fang family. Later, Fang Chengyu successfully met Liu'er and the others, only to realize he had missed Jun Jiuling, who had gone to the tomb. He then resolved to ride quickly to the post.

In Zezhou, Ning Yunzhao had already arrived. He openly admitted to his family that his engagement to Jun Zhenzhen was a fabrication, initially agreed upon due to dire circumstances. However, he also confessed that his feelings for Jun Zhenzhen were genuine. This admission enraged Mrs. Ning, who saw Jun Zhenzhen as a manipulative woman who had ensnared her precious, illustrious son.

Ning Yunzhao attempted to explain his strategic reasoning for publicly addressing the engagement to protect his career from gossip, but his sister, Yunyan, quickly discerned that his rationalizations merely masked his true affection for Jun Zhenzhen.

Episode 27 Recap

Jun Jiuling finally returned to Zezhou after a long journey, reuniting with Fang Chengyu at the post. Fang Chengyu was overjoyed to see her, noting how thin she had become while he had grown increasingly handsome. He confessed to dispatching people to inform the entire city of her return, explaining that he believed everyone in Zezhou, like their families, would be happy about it. Although Jun Jiuling had some reservations about his spontaneous actions, she appreciated his good intentions.

Upon her arrival at the Fang family mansion, Jun Jiuling received a warm welcome from Ms. Cao and her maternal aunt, who praised her beauty and renewed vigor. Jun Jiuling presented them with high-quality medicinal herbs and gifts from the capital. She inquired about Fang Jinxiu, and a servant reported that Fang Jinxiu was living comfortably and happily in the capital, managing the Jiuling Drugstore efficiently.

Ms. Cao was relieved to hear this, acknowledging that Fang Jinxiu had indeed regained her ladylike demeanor. Jun Jiuling mentioned that Fang Jinxiu had declined her invitation to return. Meanwhile, Ning Yunzhao was struggling with Jun Jiuling’s sudden return, exacerbated by his mother's strong disapproval. His father, Mr. Ning, however, was more understanding. He encouraged Ning Yunzhao, expressing his approval of Jun Jiuling.

Mr. Ning emphasized that Jun Jiuling's skill in vaccination was a "magic skill" that would "go down in history," envisioning the honor of a "Ningjun Jiuling." Ning Yunzhao humbly clarified that it should be the Jiuling Drugstore that received such acclaim, to which his father clarified that the Jiuling Drugstore would also be associated with Ningjun Jiuling.

Despite Ning Yunzhao admitting his previous proposal had been rejected, Mr. Ning urged him not to give up, insisting that even if the engagement was nullified, Ning Yunzhao’s feelings were true. At the Pasturage Department, where Zhu Zan was serving a period of reflection, Li Sanbing and Zhang Baotang reported on their investigation into Prime Minister Huang’s activities. They confirmed that Prime Minister Huang had not revisited the mysterious bookstore.

However, they had identified the bookstore's owner as a scholar named Zhang Siming, whom they suspected to be a spy planted by Beiqi in the capital. Zhu Zan, realizing the severity of the situation, immediately instructed Zhang Baotang to write a letter to his father, Lord Cheng, warning him to be vigilant. He also told Li Sanbing to keep a close watch on the bookstore and report any unusual activities.

Zhu Zan also sought confirmation that Jun Jiuling had safely reached Zezhou, concerned about Lu Yunqi's potential actions. Ning Yunzhao later sought out Jun Jiuling, asking about her sudden return, suspecting it was due to Lu Yunqi. Jun Jiuling admitted it was partly true but not the sole reason. As they spoke, Fang Chengyu arrived with freshly steamed buns from a newly opened shop, intending to give them to Jun Jiuling. His cheerful demeanor soured upon seeing Ning Yunzhao.

Fang Chengyu greeted Ning Yunzhao, acknowledging his previous help in the capital, but then subtly asserted his closeness to Jun Jiuling by offering buns in a pointed manner, implying Ning Yunzhao was an unwelcome guest. Ning Yunzhao suggested that he and Jun Jiuling return to the capital together to confront Lu Yunqi, asserting they shouldn't fear him.

Fang Chengyu interjected, implying that Ning Yunzhao's mother was still ill, and an early return to the capital would be seen as unfilial by censors, potentially causing him trouble. Jun Jiuling agreed with Fang Chengyu, acknowledging that her provincial visit was not yet over and an early return would give their opponents a reason to criticize them, especially since they were already drawing much attention.

Ning Yunzhao then offered to cancel their engagement for Jun Jiuling's sake, but she declined, stating it would worsen his situation with his mother and might lead others to accuse the Ning family of being perfidious. With his intentions thwarted, Ning Yunzhao eventually took his leave. After Ning Yunzhao departed, Jun Jiuling confronted Fang Chengyu about his petty behavior, scolding him for disrespecting Ning Yunzhao, who had, in fact, aided her in the capital.

Fang Chengyu admitted his dislike for Ning Yunzhao stemmed from the Ning family's past treatment of Jun Jiuling, but he promised to rectify his behavior. On his way home, Ning Yunzhao's attendant observed Fang Chengyu's animosity and speculated it was due to the canceled engagement. Ning Yunzhao, however, realized the true reason: Fang Chengyu harbored romantic feelings for Jun Jiuling.

That evening, Jun Jiuling received an urgent letter from Fang Jinxiu detailing a grave situation in Southwestern Hebei: the vaccination program had gone awry, resulting in the deaths of a dozen children. Compounding this crisis, Beiqi was mobilizing tens of thousands of cavalry troops towards the border, signaling an imminent war.

Recognizing that Lord Cheng would be preoccupied with defending against the invasion, Jun Jiuling immediately decided to travel to Southwestern Hebei herself to investigate the vaccine issue, emphasizing the importance of a stable populace for military morale and national security. Fang Chengyu, realizing he could not dissuade her, pledged to arrange additional manpower for her journey and secretly enlisted Mr. Lei to personally escort her.

Mr. Ning, still hopeful for a union, arranged a dinner at Shunde Teahouse to discuss the marriage with Ms. Cao and Jun Jiuling's aunt. Jun Jiuling agreed to attend primarily to bid farewell to Ning Yunzhao. Before the official discussion, Jun Jiuling informed Ning Yunzhao of Beiqi's troop movements and her urgent need to travel north to address the vaccine crisis in Southwestern Hebei, emphasizing the importance of a stable populace for military morale and national security.

Ning Yunzhao, taken aback by the news, then passionately confessed his profound feelings for her again, admitting he couldn't control his emotions and that meeting her had changed his solitary life. Jun Jiuling, while acknowledging his sincerity and assistance, gently but firmly rejected his romantic advances, stating she could only disappoint him.

Ning Yunzhao, accepting her decision, expressed that finding someone to love was a blessing, not a burden, and hoped for a chance to work with her, considering her as a treasured confidant. They shared a toast with tea, wishing each other well. At the formal gathering, Mr. Ning eloquently praised the match between Ning Yunzhao, a newly crowned No. 1 scholar, and Jun Jiuling, now a County Princess, hoping to discuss the marriage.

However, Ms. Cao politely but firmly declined the proposal, stating that mutual affection was paramount in marriage and that Jun Jiuling did not reciprocate Ning Yunzhao's feelings, having already definitively ended their previous engagement. Mrs. Ning then made a dramatic entrance, feigning concern while subtly insulting Jun Jiuling, implying she had seduced Ning Yunzhao. Ms. Cao and Jun Jiuling's aunt quickly retorted, highlighting Mrs. Ning's true intentions and mocking her past disdain for Jun Jiuling when she was a nobody.

Mrs. Ning, in a fit of anger, disparaged the Fang family as mere merchants, claiming a union with them would be a "joke" for their scholarly Ning family. Ms. Cao, unflustered, reminded Mrs. Ning that it was Jun Jiuling who had demanded a significant sum to break the engagement years ago, asserting that the Fang family had rejected them first.

Overwhelmed by Ms. Cao’s sharp wit, Mrs. Ning was left speechless as Ms. Cao and Jun Jiuling’s aunt departed abruptly, leaving a fuming Mr. Ning to lament his wife’s interference. The next morning, Jun Jiuling prepared for her journey. Fang Chengyu attempted to accompany her, but she declined, assuring him she would be fine.

He promised his continued support, urging her to contact the local Deshengchang if she encountered any difficulties in the North and assuring her that he would arrange anything she needed. To Jun Jiuling's pleasant surprise, Mr. Lei was there to escort her, a testament to Fang Chengyu's meticulous arrangements for her safety. As Jun Jiuling's entourage departed, Fang Chengyu watched, a mix of longing and resignation on his face.

His attendant asked if he had confessed his feelings to Jun Jiuling. He admitted he hadn't, fearing that expressing his love might jeopardize their current close relationship, leaving him with neither a sister nor a lover. Concurrently, news of the vaccine deaths in Southwestern Hebei reached the capital, though it was being suppressed. Imperial Doctor Jiang learned that a dozen children had died and their families sought justice against Jun Jiuling.

He discovered that a Dr. Feng was withholding the information from the Imperial Academy of Medicine, likely to protect his own reputation, as he had greatly benefited from the vaccination program. Recognizing his duty to the emperor and the common people, Imperial Doctor Jiang resolved to expose the truth in court. However, as he was about to leave, Lu Yunqi appeared, immediately ordering Imperial Doctor Jiang's imprisonment. Imperial Doctor Jiang protested Lu Yunqi's blatant disregard for authority, but his pleas were in vain.

Episode 28 Recap

When the Imperial Academy of Medicine learned of reported deaths related to vaccination, Imperial Doctor Jiang Youshu saw an opportunity to bring down Jun Jiuling. He attempted to persuade Lu Yunqi to report Jun Jiuling to the authorities. However, Lu Yunqi, harboring his own agenda, orchestrated a plan. He arranged for Jiang Youshu to be lured into the Arm Moral Department, where he was subjected to the tortures of Ghost Hand.

Lu Yunqi instructed his subordinates to spread the lie that Imperial Doctor Jiang, in his dedication, contracted a deadly disease while treating a seriously ill prisoner and subsequently died from it, effectively silencing Jiang Youshu. Meanwhile, Zhu Zan, acutely aware of the perilous situation in the North, earnestly requested Emperor Chu Rang to permit him to accompany his father, Lord Cheng, to battle.

However, Emperor Chu Rang sternly reprimanded Zhu Zan, presenting him with numerous memorials that accused his father of delaying military plans, cheating, disloyalty, and both of them of embezzling military funds to expand their mansion. Chu Rang also highlighted rumors that suggested Lord Cheng's influence rivaled his own, hinting that he kept Zhu Zan in the capital to control Lord Cheng.

Zhu Zan vehemently denied the accusations, proclaiming his father's unwavering loyalty and volunteering to redeem himself by fighting alongside his father. Yet, Chu Rang dismissed his plea, ordering him to feed horses in the Pasturage Department. Concurrently, Lu Yunqi dispatched Your Excellency Jin to follow Jun Jiuling, instructing him to observe her and only bring her back to the capital after she had resolved the vaccine issue in the North.

Jun Jiuling's group, escorted by Mr. Lei, continued their journey north, aware of the ever-present Arm Moral Department personnel trailing them, but they had not yet faced any direct hostility. Jun Jiuling decided to let them follow for the time being, prioritizing her mission to investigate the vaccine situation. Fang Jinxiu received a letter from Jun Jiuling, confirming that the problem with the vaccine had been resolved.

The letter explained that certain doctors, blinded by greed, had attempted to extract vaccine from vaccinated individuals using incorrect methods, resulting in a highly toxic and ultimately fatal substance. Fang Jinxiu and her staff were relieved that the issue was resolved. Elsewhere, Zhu Zan was advised against returning to the North due to the increased danger, but he remained resolute.

News reached Zhu Zan's subordinates that Jun Jiuling had indeed resolved the vaccine issue in Southwestern Hebei but had since disappeared, presumably to evade Lu Yunqi's men. They vowed to inform Zhu Zan immediately if any news of her surfaced. In the capital, Princess Chu Jiuli suffered from a cold, leaving her weak. Imperial doctors assured Lu Yunqi that she was stable after treatment.

Lu Yunqi, visibly relieved, urged Princess Chu Jiuli to take good care of her health, emphasizing that Prince Huai had already lost one sister, Chu Jiuling, and could not bear to lose another. Princess Chu Jiuli inquired if Chu Jiuling had entrusted him with their care, to which Lu Yunqi replied negatively.

Later, Lu Yunqi pondered to himself, acknowledging that everything he did for the siblings was for Chu Jiuling, driven by his deep affection for her, vowing to hold onto anyone who even remotely resembled her. In the dead of night, Prime Minister Huang met with His Excellency Yu, an envoy from Beiqi, to discuss their next move. Prime Minister Huang expressed his frustration that Lord Cheng had not only survived but also decisively defeated Beiqi, even recovering Hejian Prefecture.

Despite the envoy's attempt to discuss peace, Prime Minister Huang remained steadfast in his desire for revenge for his son's death at Zhu Zan's hands. He adamantly refused any peace overtures, asserting that if Beiqi sought peace now, it would only bolster Lord Cheng's prestige. He demanded Beiqi demonstrate true sincerity by launching a full-scale attack, using their soldiers' lives to avenge his son. He urged the envoy to act swiftly, warning against delay.

The Beiqi ruler heeded Prime Minister Huang's demand, officially declaring war. Upon learning of the declaration, Jun Jiuling resolved to continue her journey north. Her objective was not only to ensure the proper implementation of vaccination for the populace but also to minimize any potential accidents, thus alleviating Lord Cheng's concerns and allowing him to focus solely on repelling the foreign invaders.

Liu'er and Chen Qi diligently assisted her, while Mr. Lei meticulously undertook the crucial task of sorting medicinal herbs. Prime Minister Huang, recognizing the unfavorable turn of the war for Beiqi, sought a decisive maneuver. He proposed a surprise attack on Kaide Prefecture, a vital strategic location. He knew that the fall of Kaide Prefecture would be a devastating blow to the dynasty, compelling Emperor Chu Rang to recall Lord Cheng from the front lines to defend it.

In court, Prime Minister Huang pressed the Emperor to issue the recall order. Minister Ning, however, vehemently opposed this, arguing that recalling Lord Cheng, who was deeply embroiled in battle in the North, would leave the region vulnerable to Beiqi's aggression. Despite Minister Ning's earnest pleas for the safety of the northern populace, most court officials, fearing Prime Minister Huang's influence, echoed his call to recall Lord Cheng.

After much deliberation, Emperor Chu Rang yielded and issued an edict ordering Lord Cheng to return to defend Kaide Prefecture. Prime Minister Huang, aiming to ensure Lord Cheng's demise, further suggested that the Emperor issue multiple edicts, emphasizing the court's grave concern, thereby pressuring Lord Cheng to hasten his return and fall into their trap. Concurrently, Zhu Zan instructed Li Sanbing and Zhang Baotang to gather the members of Sky Pavilion in Southwestern Hebei, where they would rendezvous.

He then orchestrated a chaotic escape from the Pasturage Department by unfastening the reins of all the horses, using whistles to guide them and himself to freedom amidst the stampede. The news of Zhu Zan's escape swiftly reached the imperial palace, prompting Emperor Chu Rang to issue an arrest warrant and Lu Yunqi to order an all-out pursuit. Jun Jiuling's team continued their journey north, diligently administering vaccinations to the people in various prefectures.

During a brief stop, they discovered Madame Yu, Lord Cheng's wife, under attack by what appeared to be bandits. Recognizing the Arm Moral Department's presence behind them, Jun Jiuling swiftly devised a plan and ordered her team to assist Madame Yu. As expected, the disguised Beiqi soldiers, who were posing as robbers, fled upon seeing Your Excellency Jin and the Arm Moral Department forces approaching from all directions.

After rescuing Madame Yu, Jun Jiuling treated her injured ankle and confirmed that the attackers were indeed Beiqi soldiers in disguise. She immediately altered their route to Daming Prefecture. Although Your Excellency Jin had not directly engaged in the fight, his presence had served as a powerful deterrent. Jun Jiuling, aware that Your Excellency Jin was eventually tasked by Lu Yunqi to bring her back to the capital, nonetheless expressed her gratitude for his indirect assistance.

Zhu Zan successfully evaded his pursuers from the capital and proceeded to Southwestern Hebei. There, he encountered scattered Beiqi troops harming civilians and abducting young women. Under the cover of night, he launched a surprise attack. Fortunately, Li Sanbing arrived to provide support, and together, they efficiently neutralized the remaining Beiqi soldiers. Zhu Zan learned that Zhang Baotang was gathering his allies in the northwest to head directly to Kaide Prefecture.

With no news of Jun Jiuling, Zhu Zan decided to proceed to Kaide Prefecture himself. Back in the capital, Emperor Chu Rang received ten successive letters of refusal from Lord Cheng, rebuffing all ten of the Emperor's edicts. Enraged officials called for Lord Cheng to be charged with treason and insolence, especially given Zhu Zan's recent escape. However, Lu Yunqi stepped forward to defend Lord Cheng.

He pointed out that Zhu Zan, as the son of Lord Cheng, was now a fugitive facing widespread wanted orders, placing him in extreme danger. Lu Yunqi argued that the easiest choice for Lord Cheng as a father would have been to obey the Emperor's command, return to the capital, and rescue his son.

Yet, Lord Cheng chose not to, demonstrating that he prioritized the North, its people, and the preservation of the nation above his own son's safety, rejecting a father's natural instinct. Emperor Chu Rang, feeling his authority challenged, angrily accused Lu Yunqi of implying he was inferior to Lord Cheng. Despite Lu Yunqi's denial, the Emperor silenced him, declaring his absolute sovereignty over the country.

When Lu Yunqi urged the Emperor to reconsider, Chu Rang, deeming his words arrogant, suspended him from his position and ordered him to reflect on his mistakes in solitude for three months.

Episode 29 Recap

In a time of great unrest in the North, Lord Cheng, defying an imperial decree to return to the capital, remained steadfast at the frontier, unwilling to abandon the populace to danger. Prime Minister Huang seized this act of insubordination as an opportunity to impeach Lord Cheng. Ning Yunzhao's uncle, unable to bear seeing such a loyal general framed, publicly defended him, resulting in Emperor Churang suspending his duties for three months and ordering him to reflect at home.

Meanwhile, Jun Jiuling, known for her smallpox remedy, met Madame Yu. They mutually revealed their identities, with Madame Yu recognizing Jun Jiuling by her reputation. Jun Jiuling then learned that Madame Yu, Lord Cheng's wife, had come to the North to secure provisions and military aid from the Earl of Qinghe in Daming Prefecture.

Madame Yu explained that Lord Cheng was unable to leave the front lines, and obtaining supplies from the imperial court was proving to be a slow and arduous process. She emphasized the challenges of controlling public morale and the severe restrictions on military resources. Admiring Madame Yu and Lord Cheng's dedication to the people, Jun Jiuling offered to help them find a faster route.

In the midst of the conflict, Zhu Zan, accompanied by Li Sanbing and Zhang Baotang, successfully defended Kaide Prefecture. Though Prime Minister Huang shamelessly claimed that the capital could be secured without the Zhu family army, he later had to acknowledge that Lord Cheng's messenger had been instrumental in the victory. Capitalizing on the moment, Prime Minister Huang advised the Emperor to engage in peace talks with Beiqi, arguing that it was a strategic opportunity.

However, the Beiqi envoy presented exorbitant demands: equal standing between the two nations, open markets for mutual trade, and the return of three counties—Baozhou, Xiongzhou, and Bazhou. These terms, coupled with a threat of further southern invasion by 50,000 soldiers, incensed Ning Yunzhao and his father, though it became clear the Emperor, fearful of further conflict, would likely acquiesce.

Elsewhere, Lu Yunqi, suspecting Zhu Zan's involvement in the Kaide Prefecture victory, ordered his men to find and kill the messenger he believed to be Zhu Zan. With the peace talks underway and the cession of land imminent, continuing their journey to Daming Prefecture became meaningless for Jun Jiuling and Madame Yu. Jun Jiuling was deeply moved by the plight of the refugees, tirelessly distributing porridge and aid.

She argued to Madame Yu that while land might be ceded, the people should not be abandoned. She urged Madame Yu to lead the people from the three counties to Hejian, ensuring their safety from Beiqi's influence. Madame Yu readily agreed to this compassionate endeavor. Upon learning of the peace agreement and the land cession, Zhu Zan made the strategic decision to continue northward, recognizing that the withdrawal of Tianyou forces would leave countless civilians vulnerable to Beiqi’s southward advance.

In the capital, Ning Yunzhao witnessed the influx of displaced people, lamenting the corruption within the court and his own inability to effect change, which further deepened his disillusionment. Back at the Fang family estate, Ms. Cao, reviewing her financial records, became concerned by Jun Jiuling's substantial expenditures in Southwestern Hebei, fearing she might be exploited amidst the northern turmoil.

However, a letter from Jun Jiuling arrived, clarifying that the funds were being used to escort the people from the three ceded counties back to safety. Relieved and immensely proud of her granddaughter's noble actions, Ms. Cao declared that some endeavors transcend mere profit and loss. She immediately instructed Steward Gao to direct all profits from Deshengchang, her family's enterprise, to Southwestern Hebei, ensuring Jun Jiuling had ample resources for her vital work.

Upon reaching Baimang City, a crucial defensive stronghold for Hejian, Madame Yu introduced Jun Jiuling to Minister Tian as her prospective daughter-in-law. Minister Tian, acknowledging her as the Young Lord's wife, initially hesitated to comply with their request due to imperial decrees. However, Minister Tian and his officials were swayed by Jun Jiuling’s compelling argument: the empire had ceded land, but not its citizens.

She asserted that escorting these compatriots was not defiance but a meritorious act that demonstrated the Emperor’s benevolence. With the officials convinced, Madame Yu expressed her concern about potential Beiqi spies among the refugees. Jun Jiuling proposed a solution: establish a checkpoint outside the city's main defenses, house the refugees there, verify their identities, and provide humanitarian aid like food and medical care to calm their spirits.

Madame Yu, understanding the practical necessity, apologized to Jun Jiuling for the public announcement of her identity, explaining that it provided Jun Jiuling with the necessary authority to operate effectively in the North. Jun Jiuling expressed her understanding. As news of Jun Jiuling's efforts spread, common folk lauded the "wife of His Lordship," praising her bravery, resourcefulness, and compassionate spirit for helping refugees and rescuing people from Bazhou. These rumors reached Zhu Zan, who was conflicted.

He was annoyed by the impersonation of his "wife," yet also worried that Jun Jiuling might misunderstand his character. Meanwhile, Lu Yunqi, upon learning that Zhu Zan was headed towards Baozhou, and deducing that Zhu Zan was likely behind the Kaide Prefecture victory, ordered his men to assassinate him. Lu Yunqi cynically noted that Zhu Zan’s mother and "wife" were out fighting while he appeared to be hiding.

Determined to expedite the return of the people from Bazhou, Jun Jiuling and Madame Yu decided to divide their forces and venture out of Baimang City for rescue operations. Jun Jiuling led her contingent from the west, while Madame Yu took the southeast. Minister Tian was tasked with preparing the city for the influx of people and directing them further south to alleviate strain on the city. During the perilous rescue, Beiqi soldiers showed no mercy, executing those who faltered.

Jun Jiuling confronted the enemy, asserting Tianyou's claim over Bazhou and its people, engaging them directly. While Mr. Lei bravely fought the Beiqi soldiers, Jun Jiuling herself was in danger but was fortunately saved by Jin Shibo's timely intervention. Jun Jiuling successfully rescued many, and the grateful citizens, recognizing her as "the wife of His Lordship," knelt in reverence, hailing her as a living deity. The rescue of the Bazhou populace infuriated the Emperor, who feared Beiqi's reprisal.

Yuan Bao, a palace official, advised the Emperor to scapegoat Lord Cheng, framing his actions as an attempt to "buy people's hearts" and thus appeasing Beiqi. Simultaneously, Jiang Cheng, the military officer of Baozhou, loyal to Lord Cheng and Zhu Zan, pledged his army to Zhu Zan's command. Despite acknowledging his own "guilty" status, Zhu Zan accepted Jiang Cheng's support, thanking the soldiers on behalf of his father for their unwavering commitment to protect Tianyou's people.

In a moment of quiet reflection, Jun Jiuling, though far from him, spoke to Zhu Zan, confiding her new identity as "your wife," expressing her deep concern for his safety, and longing for his return.

Episode 30 Recap

Zhu Zan's whereabouts remained unknown, causing Jun Jiuling considerable worry as she prayed for his safety. The following day, reports from the North confirmed that Lord Cheng Zhu Shan had feigned a retreat before launching a surprise attack on Beiqi's left flank, forcing their troops to withdraw and resolve the crisis in Hejian Prefecture. However, this daring maneuver left Lord Cheng in a perilous situation in Yizhou.

Meanwhile, with the newly signed peace agreement between the two nations taking effect, Beiqi's army was set to enter the three counties. Emperor Chu Rang immediately ordered all Northern garrisons to withdraw, threatening charges of treason for any disobedience. It was clear to all that this directive was aimed directly at Lord Cheng. Jun Jiuling realized Lord Cheng's deeper strategy: he had risked his life to buy more time for the civilians to evacuate.

To honor his sacrifice, she decided to change her route and continue northward, forfeiting her planned rendezvous with Madame Yu. As Lord Cheng was now trapped in Yizhou after his bold strike against Beiqi, Madame Yu, not having met with Jun Jiuling, understood that Jun Jiuling had gone alone to rescue him. After safely escorting the people of Bazhou to safety, Zhu Zan, along with Li Sanbing and Zhang Baotang, immediately rode towards Yizhou.

Knowing that they could not rely on Emperor Chu Rang for military support, they prepared themselves for a desperate fight. Lord Cheng Zhu Shan, a seasoned commander, recognized the grim reality of their situation. He instructed his subordinates to meticulously record the names of every fallen soldier, ensuring their sacrifice for the hundreds of thousands of people in the three counties would be remembered for generations.

Jun Jiuling assessed the strength of Beiqi's forces surrounding Yizhou, realizing that even with all their available troops, they would be heavily outnumbered and unable to break the siege through direct confrontation. She devised a strategic plan, instructing Mr. Lei to find a trustworthy individual who would consume a special medicine designed to mimic smallpox symptoms. This person would then infiltrate the Beiqi military camp, creating the illusion of a full-blown epidemic to sow panic and disrupt their morale.

The plan worked perfectly; chaos erupted within Beiqi's ranks, allowing Lord Cheng to seize the opportunity and successfully lead his forces to break through the encirclement at Yizhou. In the capital city, a storyteller, instigated by Prime Minister Huang, twisted Lord Cheng's heroic actions into a criminal offense, claiming he had disregarded the peace treaty for personal glory. While the onlookers murmured, Fang Jinxiu, enraged, stepped forward to challenge the storyteller.

Before she could speak, a group of refugees from the North, who had just arrived in the capital, began vociferously defending Lord Cheng, accusing the storyteller of slandering him. They spoke of Lord Cheng's benevolence, recounting his and his family's brave deeds and how they saved the people of the three counties from dire straits. Just then, city soldiers galloped through the streets, announcing Lord Cheng's successful escape and victory.

Jubilant cheers erupted from the crowd, and the discredited storyteller fled in disgrace. Upon Zhu Zan's arrival at the government yamen, he learned that Madame Yu was at the Town God's Temple distributing congee, and Lord Cheng was resting due to his injuries. Zhu Zan decided to first meet the woman rumored to be the "Crown Prince's wife."

While he admired her courage and accomplishments, he felt compelled to explain that he could not agree to the marriage, as his heart already belonged to someone else, and he wished to preserve her reputation. Just as he finished speaking, Jun Jiuling turned around, a wry smile on her face. Zhu Zan was stunned, then overwhelmed with joy and concern for her having faced such dangers alone. After their emotional reunion, Zhu Zan went to see Lord Cheng.

Father and son shared a drink, celebrating their victory and honoring the soldiers who had fallen in battle. With the safe return of the people from the three counties and Beiqi's army suffering significant losses, a period of calm was expected. Emperor Chu Rang summoned Lord Cheng to the capital to receive honors. Prime Minister Huang seized the opportunity to suggest that the Earl of Qinghe temporarily assume Lord Cheng's post as guardian of the North.

Lu Yunqi agreed with this suggestion but reported that he found it difficult to act against Zhu Zan due to the presence of many experts and large crowds, making it hard to find an opportune moment. Consequently, Emperor Chu Rang instructed Prime Minister Huang to manage the arrangements for Lord Cheng and his son to return to the capital.

That night, a heavily intoxicated Zhu Zan once again found his way into Jun Jiuling's room, persistently asking why she resembled Princess Jiuling so closely. Jun Jiuling felt a surge of impulse to reveal the truth but held back. As she tried to help him, he pulled her onto the bed. Coincidentally, Madame Yu arrived with some pastries and inadvertently witnessed the scene, mistakenly believing she had interrupted a private moment between her son and his intended.

She immediately turned and left. Jun Jiuling, with great effort, finally managed to push Zhu Zan away. As she looked at his sleeping face, she couldn't resist leaning in to kiss his cheek. The next morning, both of them, already harboring mutual affection, woke up feeling sweet and shy. The imperial edict reached Hejian Prefecture, signaling that their journey to the capital would be fraught with unknown dangers, and refusal was not an option.

Jun Jiuling discussed a plan with Lord Cheng and Madame Yu: she and Zhu Zan would go to the capital first to gather intelligence, with Zhu's army following closely behind, to preempt any schemes by Prime Minister Huang. Lord Cheng was very pleased with Jun Jiuling's foresight. Madame Yu, eager to see her son marry Jun Jiuling, advised Zhu Zan to let go of his past attachment to Princess Jiuling. Zhu Zan understood his mother's intentions.

He confessed his deep feelings for Jun Jiuling and his desire to marry her. However, he insisted that he must first publicly clarify the misunderstanding surrounding her identity as the "Crown Prince's wife" to restore her reputation, before grandly welcoming her into their family. Madame Yu was supportive of his decision and expressed her profound satisfaction.

Episode 31 Recap

As Zhu Zan and Jun Jiuling continued their journey back to the capital, they shared a moment under the clear and tranquil starry sky. Jun Jiuling remarked that the sky remained the same, but the people beneath it had changed. She reminisced about watching the stars with her father and described how, in late summer and early autumn, the mingling of stars and shimmering ground light formed a pattern resembling the Milky Way pouring onto earth.

Zhu Zan, captivated, promised to take her to see it next summer. Then, he called her "Jun Jiuling," stating he had been searching for answers in her eyes. Jun Jiuling, slightly taken aback, confessed that she was indeed the person he had been thinking of.

Zhu Zan revealed that he had heard her words—"Jiuling, Ling Jiu, I am here, Jiuling is here," and her fear of never seeing him again if he didn't awaken—while he was delirious with pox in Qing Shan Courtyard. Though he couldn't verify it then, their shared experiences since had shown him the immense difficulties she faced, making him willing to wait for her to tell him she was Chu Jiuling.

Jun Jiuling apologized, feeling grateful that fate had brought them together, allowing her to confide everything in him and experience hardships by his side. She realized that all her past struggles had become the most precious testament to their bond. Zhu Zan, in turn, apologized for not recognizing her sooner and vowed that from now on, nothing and no one would ever separate them again. In the capital, Prime Minister Huang gathered his colleagues to strategize against Lord Cheng.

Following a proposal from the Ministry of Official Personnel Affairs, they decided to announce a "donation" under the name of the Zhu family army, intending to incite public anger and address the empty treasury and the issue of rewarding Lord Cheng. They framed Lord Cheng (Zhu Shan) as overly aggressive in seeking recognition, blaming him for unpaid official salaries and new taxes on the people.

Prime Minister Huang expressed satisfaction, confirming all arrangements were complete and awaiting Lord Cheng’s arrival to settle old and new grudges. Meanwhile, Zhu Zan and Jun Jiuling were ambushed on their way to the capital. Zhu Zan protected Jun Jiuling, sustaining minor injuries himself, though he was more concerned by a secret letter from the capital. Jun Jiuling noted the adversaries' underhanded tactics and suggested that while general troublemakers were manageable, the rigid and pedantic scholars would be a challenge.

She proposed that Deshengchang could manage public sentiment. Zhu Zan then suggested that Ning Yunzhao, known for his ability, could persuade the reclusive great tutor Qi Xuan, whose students comprised most of the capital’s scholars, to intervene. Zhu Zan and Jun Jiuling agreed to split up upon reaching the capital.

In the imperial court, Prime Minister Huang advised Emperor Chu Rang to exercise strict judgment, accusing Lord Cheng of disobeying imperial decrees, refusing to return when summoned, and later entering Beiqi territory without permission, potentially posing a threat to the capital with spies.

Ning Yunzhao countered, praising the Emperor’s benevolence in welcoming refugees and asserting that the arrival of tens of thousands of people from the three counties, having traveled thousands of miles to thank the Emperor, would be a testament to His Majesty’s wisdom and compassion, cementing his image as an unprecedentedly great emperor. Faced with conflicting counsel, Emperor Chu Rang dismissed his ministers, stating he needed more time to decide.

After further consideration, the Emperor decided to have the Third Prince welcome the Zhu family army from the city gate wall on his behalf. Back in his private chambers, Prime Minister Huang reaffirmed his resolve to create "countless obstacles" for Lord Cheng (Zhu Shan). Meanwhile, in the capital, Ning Yunzhao and Fang Jinxiu prepared for unforeseen challenges to ensure Lord Cheng’s smooth entry.

Fang Jinxiu and Shopkeeper Liu discussed how their opponents had paid hundreds of people, including children, to incite unrest, revealing the shameless tactics employed. Fang Jinxiu worried about their foes, but Shopkeeper Liu assured her that Jun Jiuling was aware and prepared, with Fang Chengyu in Zezhou also having made arrangements to send large quantities of supplies to the capital.

Fang Jinxiu’s grandmother worried about Jun Jiuling's dangerous endeavors, but Fang Jinxiu affirmed her trust in Jun Jiuling’s actions, pledging the Fang family’s full support. Ning Yunzhao arrived in the capital ahead of Lord Cheng, seeking Fang Jinxiu's help to convince Qi Xuan to intervene, as he was the only one who could sway the scholars. Soon, Lord Cheng's army and the accompanying carriages with family members approached the capital.

A crowd of common people, seemingly having waited for a long time, blocked their path with expressions of scorn, not joy. Several agitators, disguised as ordinary citizens, deliberately instigated unrest, shouting for Lord Cheng to "give them a way to live." They accused him of exploiting them and profiting from war, demanding justice, and throwing vegetables at the procession.

Lord Cheng calmly ordered his soldiers to stand down, declaring that their blades were only for enemies, not their own people, and threatening military law for disobedience. Just then, Fang Jinxiu and Shopkeeper Liu arrived with carts, accompanied by Liu'er and Chen Qi, announcing that Deshengchang and Jiuling Drugstore were distributing silver and medicine in celebration of Lord Cheng's triumphant return.

This timely act of charity and praise for Lord Cheng's benevolence quelled the unrest, and the instigators, having been paid to cause trouble, seized the opportunity to slip away. Lord Cheng's army had faced difficulties at every checkpoint on their way to the capital. Near the city gate, the Third Prince grew impatient with Lord Cheng's delay, spurred on by Prime Minister Huang’s whispers about Lord Cheng's supposed undisciplined nature.

The Third Prince expressed his intent to make Lord Cheng wait. Meanwhile, a group of scholars and noble scions blocked Lord Cheng's path, led by a man who demanded Lord Cheng dismount and apologize. He vehemently accused Lord Cheng of various crimes: disobeying imperial decrees and causing chaos in the northern lands, being warlike and causing endless conflict, and demanding rewards, leading to military and political disorder.

He branded Lord Cheng (Zhu Shan) and the Zhu family army as "ministers and forces that would lead to the subjugation of our state." Lord Cheng refuted the accusations, specifically clarifying that regarding the earlier loss at Kaide Mansion, he had prioritized the greater good by guarding the most crucial areas.

When Fang Jinxiu defended Lord Cheng, arguing he had led troops to resist Beiqi and rescue the people, she was rebuked by the scholar leader for being a "woman" who didn't deserve to discuss imperial laws. It was at this critical moment that the venerable literary master Qi Xuan appeared.

He challenged the scholars, questioning if he was worthy to discuss imperial laws and condemning their failure to uphold righteousness and disregard for the people's safety, stating they had wrongly read the sages' books. He praised Lord Cheng's magnanimity for remaining calm amidst their insults and ordered them to step aside, warning that those who deliberately incited others were unworthy of scholarship or official positions. Lord Cheng thanked Qi Xuan, and his procession continued smoothly toward the city gate.

Upon reaching the city gate, Lord Cheng faced the Third Prince, who accused him of being "warlike and greedy for military merits," disregarding the pleas of the refugees from the three counties. Lord Cheng knelt, acknowledging his return with tens of thousands of refugees from the North as per His Majesty's decree, and implored the Third Prince to petition the Emperor for their proper resettlement.

The refugees themselves cried out, urging the Third Prince to blame them instead if he wished to blame Lord Cheng, describing their suffering—homelessness, starvation, and vulnerability to enemies—and defending Lord Cheng for bringing them to safety. An official standing with the Third Prince voiced concerns about the difficulty of settling tens of thousands of refugees and the potential for spies or bandits among them to cause chaos in the capital.

Lord Cheng again denied the false charges, stating that if he were truly greedy for power, he would not have returned with only a few close followers. He asked the Third Prince to investigate whether he had lost the people's support or was deliberately framed.

During this standoff, the Emperor, having been informed of Qi Xuan's presence and the vast number of refugees at the gate, and advised on the potential damage to his reputation if they were refused entry, issued an oral instruction for the Third Prince to open the gate. Qi Xuan then directly intervened, commanding the Third Prince to open the gate if he still respected him, while the refugees and their supporters chanted for the gate to be opened.

Episode 32 Recap

Upon learning of Qi Xuan's emergence, Chu Rang was greatly alarmed. Reflecting on the ongoing complaints from literati regarding the enfeoffment of military generals, he realized that refusing great tutor Qi Xuan entry would deeply wound the hearts of all scholars. Following Prince Xian's persuasion, Chu Rang dispatched Yuan Bao with an oral decree to the Third Prince, instructing him to immediately open the city gates and welcome Qi Xuan and Lord Cheng into the capital.

Outside the city gates, tens of thousands of common people from the three northern prefectures clamored for Lord Cheng's entry. Coupled with great tutor Qi Xuan's significant influence, the Third Prince found himself in a difficult position. Just as he hesitated, Chu Rang's oral decree arrived via Yuan Bao, ordering him to grant passage. The city's inhabitants lined the streets to welcome them, creating a truly magnificent spectacle.

Amidst the joyous commotion, Zhu Zan approached Prince Xian (Uncle Yuan) and expressed his gratitude, acknowledging Prince Xian's crucial role in his father's smooth entry. Prince Xian playfully teased Zhu Zan about his lack of grace compared to Lord Cheng but praised Jun Jiuling's resourcefulness, urging Zhu Zan to marry her soon. He then inquired why Jun Jiuling, who had orchestrated such a clever plan, had not yet appeared.

Zhu Zan explained that to publicly sever Lu Yunqi's persistent entanglement, he and Jun Jiuling needed to enact a public charade. Meanwhile, Lu Yunqi, upon realizing that tens of thousands of refugees had entered the capital, questioned his subordinates. He learned that Deshengchang had covertly mixed the refugees into caravans, allowing them to bypass checkpoints via waterways and land routes. His subordinate admitted their oversight, noting that only Jun Jiuling could have conceived of such a sophisticated plan.

As the procession continued into the city, Jun Jiuling appeared, riding a horse in striking red attire. Lu Yunqi gazed at her, a subconscious smile gracing his lips, before he abruptly regained his composure, suppressing his emotions, and ordered her arrest. Zhu Zan promptly intervened, not only obstructing the Arm Moral Department but also publicly declaring Jun Jiuling to be the wife of His Lordship, Lord Cheng's son.

He emphasized that with his father, Lord Cheng, currently in an audience with His Majesty, arresting Jun Jiuling would be tantamount to defying the will of His Majesty. Seeing Lu Yunqi hesitate, Zhu Zan seized the opportunity to display affection for Jun Jiuling in front of the crowd, addressing her as "my dear wife" and being called "my dear husband" in return. Their public display of endearment infuriated Lu Yunqi, leaving him seething.

Jun Jiuling later remarked that she publicly provoked him, knowing that if he reacted, their actions would be justified even before His Majesty. Subsequently, Lu Yunqi's subordinates, who had been tasked with tracking Jun Jiuling, doffed their uniforms and approached him to admit their failure. However, Lu Yunqi, acknowledging Jun Jiuling's safe return, did not pursue the matter further and ordered them to don their uniforms again, making no additional comments.

Lord Cheng entered the palace to seek an audience with Chu Rang, admitting his "guilt." He confessed to having resisted ten imperial edicts and acknowledged that while Zhu Zan's escape was due to the conflict between the two states, his son was not entirely blameless. Chu Rang, however, dismissed Lord Cheng's self-incrimination, stating that resisting imperial edicts for the sake of the nation was excusable, and Zhu Zan's heroic act of saving the refugees balanced any wrongdoing.

Lord Cheng's strategy of turning a passive situation into an active one successfully cleared him of any blame, leaving even Prime Minister Huang speechless. Considering Chu Rang's true intentions for summoning him to the capital, Lord Cheng requested to retire from his official post, citing old age and his inability to continue guarding the North. He offered his military power to Chu Rang, symbolically withdrawing his influence to avoid further involvement.

Chu Rang initially offered to temporarily hold the military tally, intending to return it, but ultimately accepted Lord Cheng's resignation. Lord Cheng then requested Chu Rang to revoke the donation order, which Chu Rang granted, with Lord Cheng expressing his gratitude for the Emperor's trust.

This decision also paved the way for Ning Yunzhao's uncle to return to court, as his opposition to peace talks had been the cause of his earlier suspension, and Chu Rang, acknowledging his devotion to the nation, pardoned him and reinstated him. Li Sanbing and Baotang returned to the Mansion of Lord Cheng, having been fed up with the overly affectionate displays of Zhu Zan and Jun Jiuling.

Once inside, they reported their recent findings: Prime Minister Huang had secretly met with Yu Chihai, the Crown Prince of Beiqi. Yu Chihai had used a scapegoat to conceal his movements and destroyed all evidence, making direct accusation difficult. Baotang then mentioned the public's criticism of Ning Yunzhao, who was now seen as a "covetous minister" and had become thick-skinned due to the "expert" behind him.

Jun Jiuling felt a pang of self-reproach, as Ning Yunzhao's "slanders" in court were actions she had instructed. That evening, Zhu Zan brought Bing'er to the Mansion of Lord Cheng, arranging for her to stay with Jun Jiuling. Bing'er, who had survived the disaster and changed her appearance, now went by the name Sujuan. Jun Jiuling recognized Sujuan as Bing'er, a former attendant of the late emperor.

Bing'er tearfully apologized for her past actions, believing her words might have contributed to Jun Jiuling's initial predicament. Jun Jiuling comforted her, asserting that neither of them was at fault and revealing that Zhu Zan had rescued Bing'er and kept her safe.

Bing'er then recounted the details surrounding the late emperor's death, though Zhu Zan noted that the pattern on the imperial seal impression was something the late emperor had discussed with Highly Skilled Doctor Jun and that Prime Minister Huang had also seen it. After returning from the palace, Lord Cheng explained the situation to his family.

Madame Yu, who had always admired Jun Jiuling and understood her son's affection, playfully suggested adopting Jun Jiuling as her foster daughter, making them siblings. This ploy forced Zhu Zan to truthfully express his feelings about Jun Jiuling. Jun Jiuling, equally mischievous, did not object to Madame Yu's proposal, feigning indifference, further teasing Zhu Zan about their engagement being merely an "expedient."

The next day, Zhu Zan, Jun Jiuling, Li Sanbing, and Baotang went to a restaurant for a meal, where they coincidentally encountered Lu Yunqi. Li Sanbing and Baotang intentionally provoked Lu Yunqi by repeatedly addressing Jun Jiuling as "sister-in-law," almost instigating a brawl with the Arm Moral Department's men. Lu Yunqi, infuriated, left the restaurant and boarded Prime Minister Huang's carriage. Inside, Prime Minister Huang proposed a collaboration, promising that Jun Jiuling would eventually come begging to Lu Yunqi.

Baotang, still seething over Lu Yunqi, regretted having saved him as a child. He inadvertently revealed the story of Princess Jiuling's childhood encounter with Lu Yunqi. He recounted how, about ten years prior, Lu Yunqi had been caught stealing from their mansion but refused to admit it. Princess Jiuling, upon seeing the older boys bullying him, had intervened and saved him. Baotang lamented that Jun Jiuling would surely regret having saved such a person.

Meanwhile, Ning Yunzhao went to Jiuling Drugstore to find Jun Jiuling. However, his new reputation as a "covetous minister" preceded him, causing misunderstanding and disdain. Fang Jinxiu, without hesitation, blocked his entry. She harshly criticized his transformation from a "noble childe" to a sycophant, constantly praising His Majesty even when Ning Yunzhao's own uncle was demoted for speaking up for Lord Cheng.

Liu'er, another attendant, also expressed her disdain, stating that Jun Jiuling was now the wife of His Lordship and must align with her husband's family. Jun Jiuling eventually agreed to meet him but firmly told him that their paths had diverged and they could no longer be friends due to their differing convictions and pursuits. Understanding her clear message, Ning Yunzhao left, promising not to bother her again.

Episode 33 Recap

At Ning Yunzhao's persistent request, Fang Jinxiu went to the medical hall to inform Jun Jiuling of his presence. Jun Jiuling, witnessing the anger of those around her and unable to explain the situation, publicly ended her relationship with Ning Yunzhao, stating they were fundamentally incompatible. This public display was part of a pre-arranged plan between Jun Jiuling and Ning Yunzhao.

To gain Chu Rang's complete trust and evade suspicion from other officials, Ning Yunzhao needed to publicly distance himself from those Chu Rang considered threats, including Zhu Zan, Lord Cheng, Ning Yunzhao himself, and Jun Jiuling. Jun Jiuling had warned him that this would involve public humiliation, but he accepted it, claiming he was accustomed to suffering as a "calamitous minister."

During their interaction, Ning Yunzhao playfully asked Jun Jiuling about her "marriage" to Zhu Zan, to which she confirmed it was fake. Later, when Zhu Zan, who was already feeling a touch of jealousy after seeing them talk, pressed her on the matter, Jun Jiuling clarified that while it was currently fake, its future was uncertain. After Ning Yunzhao departed and the others dispersed, Lu Yunqi appeared at the Jiuling Drugstore.

He informed Jun Jiuling that Prince Huai was ill and suggested she treat him. Zhu Zan, enraged upon seeing Lu Yunqi, mistakenly believed he intended to harm Jun Jiuling. Jun Jiuling intervened, promptly ordering Lu Yunqi away. However, she recognized that Lu Yunqi was using Prince Huai's illness as a threat, which could damage her Jiuling Drugstore's reputation. She instructed Zhu Zan to discreetly investigate.

Zhu Zan soon discovered that Huang Cheng intended to send Prince Huai to the imperial mausoleum under the pretense of him being afflicted by "evil spirits." Jun Jiuling quickly deduced that Huang Cheng's real target was not Prince Huai himself, but Lord Cheng. The scheme was designed to test Lord Cheng's loyalty: if he publicly opposed the plan to send Prince Huai to the imperial mausoleum, he would be branded as a supporter of the late emperor.

Despite her concern for her younger brother Prince Huai, Jun Jiuling prioritized preventing Lord Cheng from falling into this trap. She instructed Zhu Zan to tell Lord Cheng to remain silent during the morning levee. Instead, she would arrange to secretly meet Prince Huai herself to confirm his condition.

She firmly told Zhu Zan that she would make the difficult decision to protect Lord Cheng from unnecessary risk, knowing that Chu Rang had already decided to send Prince Huai to the imperial mausoleum and any opposition would be futile. Unexpectedly, Lord Cheng did not remain silent. Instead, he personally visited Prince Huai's mansion, accompanied by Zhu family soldiers, and had Jun Jiuling examine Prince Huai.

In the subsequent morning levee, when Huang Cheng proposed sending Prince Huai to the imperial mausoleum for "blessings," Lord Cheng publicly stated that Prince Huai was in good spirits and clear of mind, implying he was not afflicted. He even suggested that if "evil spirits" were indeed the issue, the imperial city or battle-hardened soldiers from his command would be more effective than the imperial mausoleum.

He then subtly referred to Jun Jiuling as "your heir's wife" to the court, reinforcing her connection to his family, thus directly challenging Huang Cheng's scheme without outright insubordination. With Prince Huai's matter resolved, Zhu Zan and Jun Jiuling found a moment of respite. They strolled through the streets, admiring lanterns and reflecting on their journey together.

Zhu Zan confessed his fears of missing her and lamented that she hadn't acknowledged him sooner in Zezhou, promising he would have protected her. Jun Jiuling explained that her dangerous mission in Zezhou meant she could not have involved him. She admitted that she initially tried to push him away but found herself constantly thinking of him, missing him when he was absent, and feeling a spark in her eyes when they met.

She described him as a "careless and casual person" yet one who always saved her from danger and even traveled from the North to show her a "Northland sand birch." She concluded that her most cherished days were those spent with him. As they passed a family of four, they both paused, longing for a similar life of companionship. Meanwhile, Chu Rang chastised Huang Cheng for his failed attempt to use Prince Huai.

He then summoned Lu Yunqi, unexpectedly learning that Jun Jiuling had extensively used Deshengchang's funds, virtually emptying its seventeen money shops, to aid Northern refugees and forge weapons and armor. Infuriated by this unauthorized expenditure and Jun Jiuling's growing influence, Chu Rang vowed to eliminate her. Under the pretense of rewarding Deshengchang's generosity, he immediately ordered Fang Chengyu, the head of Deshengchang, to be summoned to the capital for an audience.

Ms. Cao, fearing for the Fang family's sole remaining male heir, proposed going to the capital herself. However, Fang Chengyu, viewing himself as the family's pillar, insisted on going, asserting that he could not abandon his responsibility. He eloquently argued that the Fang family's true legacy lay in its enduring spirit, not just a male heir, and believed that his presence would honor the Emperor while showing the family's sincerity, especially as the court might underestimate the Fang family's women.

Simultaneously, Zhu Zan, aware of Chu Rang's intentions towards Jun Jiuling, sought Lord Cheng's counsel. His Twelfth Uncle had advised him that Chu Rang likely aimed to destroy the marriage alliance by eliminating Jun Jiuling. Lord Cheng then suggested that Zhu Zan should seize this opportunity to request an imperial reward for Jun Jiuling's contributions.

The following morning at the court, Lord Cheng formally reported Jun Jiuling's extensive efforts in aiding the Northern refugees and forging weapons, stating that she had used his name for convenience. Other officials quickly voiced their support, endorsing her merits. Although Minister Huang attempted to deflect credit back to Lord Cheng, other ministers quickly re-framed the narrative, praising Chu Rang's wisdom for enabling such deeds.

Faced with unified support, Chu Rang acknowledged the contributions of both Jun Jiuling and Lord Cheng, ultimately promoting Jun Jiuling from County Princess Shanyang to Prefecture Princess. Though this elevation somewhat restrained Chu Rang, Jun Jiuling expressed her concern to Zhu Zan that Lord Cheng's public support for her implicitly showed his lingering loyalty to the late emperor, which might lead to him being implicated or losing public favor.

Zhu Zan reassured her that he would protect her, implying that the true threat lay in the emperor's deep-seated fear of popular support, which sometimes surpassed even the fear of military power.

Episode 34 Recap

Jiuling reflected on the current situation, noting that Chu Rang, still unaware of her true identity, might view Lord Cheng's evident loyalty to the late Emperor as a threat, fearing that popular support could be more formidable than military power. Zhu Zan, understanding her concerns, affirmed that she was already a Prefecture Princess and would soon regain her full princess status. He suggested they go together to welcome Fang Chengyu, who was arriving that day. Jiuling agreed.

Upon Fang Chengyu's arrival, he greeted Zhu Zan as "Your Lordship," then playfully suggested he should call him "Brother-in-law." Zhu Zan was delighted, praising Chengyu's newfound sensibility. However, Chengyu quickly clarified that Jiuling's letter had explained their engagement was merely a temporary arrangement, just like previous ones, so calling him "Your Lordship" would save them from future changes.

He even pointed out that since they were not yet truly "family," there was no need for such intimacy, suggesting Zhu Zan simply call him "Chengyu" just as Jiuling did. Zhu Zan, playing along, affectionately agreed to call him "inner brother-in-law" and then took his leave, allowing Chengyu to catch up with Jiuling. Meanwhile, unbeknownst to Chengyu, his elder sister, Fang Jinxiu, had been tirelessly preparing for his arrival.

She had spent the morning cleaning his room, ensuring it was comfortable, even arranging four layers of sleeping mats and placing a precious tea set from the Jiuling Drugstore's opening day in his room—items she normally wouldn't let anyone touch. Chengyu was deeply touched by her thoughtfulness. Jiuling later discussed the upcoming audience with His Majesty with Chengyu, warning him that although it seemed like an honor, it was fraught with danger.

She proposed they seize the opportunity to return the imperial decree proactively, turning a defensive situation into an offensive one, since Chu Rang seemed intent on retrieving it anyway. Chengyu agreed, admitting he was nervous for his first visit to the palace. Zhu Zan tried to ease his apprehension, reminding him that the Ministry of Rites had already instructed him.

When Chengyu insisted on more tips, Zhu Zan humorously warned him against ending up in the imperial prison as he once did, but reassured him he would be by his side. During their audience, Fang Chengyu humbly acknowledged Chu Rang's praise for Deshengchang's meritorious deeds, stating it was his honor to serve His Majesty. He then boldly requested a piece of Chu Rang's calligraphy, praising his artistic skill.

Chengyu then presented the imperial decree that had previously been granted to the Fang family when Deshengchang served as a royal merchant. He explained that since they were no longer royal merchants, it was inappropriate to keep such a significant imperial token, respectfully asking Chu Rang to take it back and bestow a new piece of calligraphy. Chu Rang agreed, asking what character he desired. Chengyu requested the character "fu," signifying happiness. Chu Rang granted his wish.

Once Chu Rang had successfully retrieved the imperial decree, he believed that "only the dead can keep a secret," and immediately ordered arrangements to eliminate the Fang family, considering them useless now. After leaving the emperor, Chengyu thanked Jiuling, crediting her for saving the Fang family by advising the return of the decree. Jiuling humbly responded that it was Chengyu's growing maturity that truly saved their family.

She explained that the imperial decree was only a blessing when the Emperor genuinely intended to bestow it; if he wished to revoke it, holding onto it would only invite disaster. Chengyu hoped the exchange of the imperial decree for the character "fu" would be worthwhile, and Jiuling assured him it was. As they exited the palace, Lu Yunqi approached, addressing Jiuling and asserting that she was his wife, though perhaps not for long.

Zhu Zan quickly intervened, declaring that even if she were no longer Lu Yunqi's wife, she certainly wouldn't be his. He turned to Chengyu for confirmation, which Chengyu readily provided. Lu Yunqi then pointedly asked if they remembered the day's significance. Jiuling initially replied it was the first anniversary of Jiuling Drugstore's opening. Lu Yunqi clarified it was Jiuling's birthday and also the second anniversary of his marriage to Jiuling.

Just then, Zhu Zan swiftly guided Jiuling and Chengyu away, wishing Jiuling a happy birthday. Later, Fang Chengyu expressed his regret for his previous childishness and sincerely thanked Zhu Zan for protecting Jiuling in the palace. Zhu Zan playfully asked him to call him "Brother-in-law" instead.

Chengyu agreed, but only if Zhu Zan promised him three things: firstly, if he ever treated Jiuling poorly, Chengyu would rally the entire Fang family against him; secondly, because Jiuling had many adversaries, Zhu Zan must always prioritize her safety; and thirdly, given that Jiuling had no immediate family other than her maternal relatives, Zhu Zan must ensure her happiness for the rest of her life. Zhu Zan readily promised to fulfill all three conditions.

Satisfied, Chengyu affectionately called him "Brother-in-law" and offered him tea. Jiuling then advised Chengyu to return to Zezhou sooner rather than later, as the return of the imperial decree didn't mean they could relax. She worried that the long-hidden secret of Chu Rang's past conspiracy against the Fang family might now be exploited, especially with the imperial decree no longer serving as leverage. She feared Chu Rang might move against their grandmother.

Chengyu confirmed her suspicion, realizing that without any restraint, Chu Rang might directly target their family. Zhu Zan reassured them both that he had already sent people to protect the Fang family in Zezhou, easing some of their anxieties. He added that he had one more matter to discuss with them.

That evening, everyone gathered for a farewell dinner for Fang Chengyu, which also served as a birthday celebration for Jiuling, as Zhu Zan was the only one who remembered her special day. Sensing an opportune moment, Li Sanbing and Baotang made humorous excuses about stomachaches to leave, ensuring Zhu Zan and Jiuling had time alone.

Zhu Zan then presented Jiuling with a longevity cake, which he had personally made using a recipe from the imperial kitchen, knowing it was her favorite childhood birthday treat. Jiuling, deeply touched, said her father used to have the imperial kitchen make it for her every year, but last year she missed it. She thanked Zhu Zan, who affirmed that while her father used to protect her, he would do so from now on.

She tasted the cake and said it was sweet, not from added sugar, but from the sweetness in her heart. Later, Jinxiu checked in on Chengyu, asking how he was adjusting. He assured her he was doing well and inquired about their grandmother's health. He asserted that he had grown up, was healthier, and no longer needed constant care, proudly mentioning he could now ride, shoot arrows, and travel great distances to see her.

Fang Jinxiu apologized for her past "silly words" and reminded him that they had both moved past the unfortunate incident. Chengyu confirmed he had long let it go. Jiuling thanked Chengyu, reflecting that she now understood why he had opened Jiuling Drugstore on June 18th and why Lu Yunqi had married on the same date—dates significant to her past. Zhu Zan pressed her on her feelings for Lu Yunqi.

She stated she had only agreed to marry him for revenge, and in her heart, he was no different from anyone else. Zhu Zan was satisfied with her answer. When he asked what she thought of him, she playfully teased him, saying he was "inferior to others," before they shared a tender kiss. Chen Qi then announced that dinner was served. At the table, Jiuling thanked everyone for their hard work and contributions to Jiuling Drugstore's successful first year.

They all raised their cups in a toast. Later, Lu Yunqi was seen alone in a memorial hall, lighting incense. He spoke aloud to a memorial tablet, confiding that he had met a girl who strongly reminded him of Princess Jiuling, and he intended to bring her to meet the Princess someday. Back with Zhu Zan and Jiuling, she expressed her profound happiness at having him by her side, a feeling she never thought she'd experience again.

Zhu Zan asked when she had started liking him and why she hadn't told him earlier. She confessed she had liked him "a little" since childhood, and "more" as she grew up. She lamented that he had spent eight years in the North, and by the time he returned, everything had changed. He then asked her to promise him one thing: no matter what happened or who appeared, she would never separate from him.

They sealed their promise with a pinky swear. Jiuling expressed that she was finally no longer alone; before he came, she had to be the strongest for everyone, but with him, she could finally be her true, relaxed self. Zhu Zan then told her that while she might be his weakness, he would be her strongest armor, ensuring she would never have a weakness again.

Following his farewell, news soon arrived from the post that Fang Chengyu's room at the inn had caught fire, and he was believed to have died in the blaze. The Fang family was devastated. When Chu Rang received word, he expressed skepticism about the "accident" and dispatched someone to Zezhou to thoroughly investigate and confirm Chengyu's death, emphasizing that there must be no chance of his survival.

The Fang family confirmed that a treasured ancestral jade pendant, which Chengyu always carried, was found on the body, though damaged. Despite this, Chu Rang still demanded further verification. Distraught by the news, Fang Jinxiu felt it was a deliberate act, while Ms. Cao, recalling Jiuling's earlier warnings, believed Chu Rang was still intent on eradicating their family.

Jiuling, also deeply troubled, immediately decided to return to Zezhou to comfort Ms. Cao, with Zhu Zan and Fang Jinxiu resolving to accompany her. Zhu Zan arranged for their carriage to depart the next morning. Jiuling confided in Fang Jinxiu that Chengyu's visit to the capital had been fraught with danger from the start. She noted that returning the imperial decree and taking on new responsibilities should have alleviated Chu Rang's suspicions.

The timing of Chengyu's death on his way back to Zezhou seemed too coincidental, leading Jiuling to wonder if it was indeed arson. She asserted that there was no such thing as perfect preparation or unchanging promises, and questioned whether Fang Jinxiu was still deceiving herself, reminding her that Chu Rang had dispatched him not merely to monitor the Fang family, but to uproot them entirely.

Episode 35 Recap

The Fang family was in deep sorrow following their recent misfortune, with friends and acquaintances arriving to offer condolences. Chu Jiuling’s arrival, however, stirred an immediate commotion. Senior Madame Fang publicly slapped Chu Jiuling, angrily accusing her of causing the family's ruin and her son's death by engaging in forbidden actions. Steward Gao intervened, asking the mourning guests to leave.

Once the gates were closed, curious onlookers outside discussed the family's internal dispute, with some noting the intense argument between Senior Madame Fang and Chu Jiuling, specifically hearing accusations that Chu Jiuling was responsible for Fang Chengyu's death. Unbeknownst to them, Yuan Bao's operatives in Zezhou city observed the entire scene. Inside, Chu Jiuling revealed the truth to Senior Madame Fang: the widespread rumor of Fang Chengyu's demise in a fire was a deliberate fabrication she orchestrated.

In reality, Fang Chengyu was alive and well, having been safely sent to the North, Lord Cheng’s territory, by Zhu Zan. Senior Madame Fang was greatly relieved upon hearing this but also expressed her frustration at Chu Jiuling's ruthlessness, including her in the deception and enduring a slap for the sake of the plan. Chu Jiuling, however, did not mind, explaining that this dramatic display was essential to convince Chu Rang that Fang Chengyu was truly dead.

At that moment, Zhu Zan entered and respectfully apologized for not informing Senior Madame Fang earlier about the fake death, which was a plan conceived in the capital to help Chengyu escape. Senior Madame Fang, seeing Zhu Zan's clear affection for Chu Jiuling, noted their strong bond and expressed her peace of mind if they were to face challenges together.

Realizing the precarious situation, Senior Madame Fang understood that to fully protect the Fang family and restrain Chu Rang, they needed to reveal the concealed batch of silver. She led Chu Jiuling into a secret room through her sleeping chambers. This was only the second time Senior Madame Fang had entered this secret place; her late husband had shown it to her just before his death.

Inside, they found boxes of official silver, which the Fang family had melted and recast into ordinary ingots during the third year of the Taiyan period, turning it into private wealth. Senior Madame Fang expressed deep regret that her father-in-law had indirectly caused the death of the then emperor's father, which in turn brought decades of unrest upon the Fang family. She believed her husband's death was a just punishment for his actions.

Unable to continue the deception, Chu Jiuling revealed her true identity as Princess Chu Jiuling, much to Senior Madame Fang's astonishment. Senior Madame Fang immediately knelt and apologized, feeling that the Fang family had caused the princess great harm through their greed. Chu Jiuling quickly helped her up, reassuring her that she did not blame the Fang family, as they had already suffered for their past sins.

She acknowledged that her life was saved by Jun Zhenzhen and offered to continue serving Senior Madame Fang as Zhenzhen. Zhu Zan then explained that with the silver and the previously obtained seal, they had enough evidence to expose Chu Rang's actions, which dated back to the involvement of Jiuling's grandfather and father in the war with Beiqi and the abduction of the then emperor's father.

They agreed to transport the silver and seal to the capital by concealing them within Deshengchang’s next delivery convoy, ensuring their safe passage without arousing suspicion. To avoid further scrutiny, Chu Jiuling proposed a bold plan: the Fang family should publicly stage a dramatic family dispute, dividing Deshengchang into three separate entities. This spectacle, she argued, would create enough noise and attract public attention, making the Fang family appear preoccupied with internal affairs and thus safer from external interference.

The Fang family members diligently played their roles. Yuxiu, the Second Lady, proactively closed down a dozen of the shops she managed. Fang Jinxiu then went to the county government office, publicly beating the yamen drum and appealing to the magistrate to help her reclaim her rightful inheritance. A crowd gathered, watching the unfolding drama.

Senior Madame Fang, feigning outrage and supported by other female family members, arrived at the yamen's gate, publicly scolding Fang Jinxiu and accusing her of being ungrateful. Fang Jinxiu, in turn, passionately defended her long years of dedication to the family business since childhood, lamenting the sacrifices she and Yuxiu made, such as refusing marriage proposals and preparing for arranged live-in husbands, all for the sake of their fragile younger brother.

Now that Chengyu was gone, she argued, it was only fair to redistribute the family assets. Faced with the public spectacle, Senior Madame Fang reluctantly "agreed" to the family division for the sake of the Fang family's image. After the dramatic display, Zhu Zan and Chu Jiuling departed for the capital, anticipating that news of the Fang family's turmoil would soon reach the palace.

Indeed, in the palace, Yuan Bao reported to Chu Rang, dismissing the Fang family women as incapable of posing any significant threat. On their journey, Zhu Zan and Chu Jiuling enjoyed a lighthearted exchange, with Zhu Zan playfully teasing Jiuling and affirming his lifelong commitment to her, much to the amusement of their companions, Li Sanbing and Zhang Baotang, who observed their public display of affection.

Meanwhile, Lu Yunqi intercepted a secret letter from Lord Cheng addressed to the North, revealing his continued interest in the region's affairs. This angered Chu Rang, who felt his authority was being undermined. Lu Yunqi, witnessing Zhu Zan and Jiuling's affection, felt a surge of jealousy but decided to wait for a more opportune moment to act against Chu Jiuling.

Soon after their return, Lord Cheng was summoned to the palace by Chu Rang, who intended to force him into retirement. Chu Rang publicly accused Lord Cheng of deliberately inciting conflict between border troops and Beiqi. Lord Cheng, undeterred, boldly affirmed his long-standing policy of constant vigilance against Beiqi, stating that their offers of goodwill were always a deceptive ploy.

He argued that even an inch of territory must not be yielded, as appeasement now would lead to harsher battles later. He implored Chu Rang to strengthen military affairs and maintain a firm stance against Beiqi, urging him to meet aggression with force.

However, other officials quickly chimed in, accusing Lord Cheng of secretly controlling the army, ignoring imperial orders, and creating unrest in the border regions, urging Chu Rang to dismiss him from military service and punish him for abusing his power.

Episode 36 Recap

During the imperial court session, Prime Minister Huang vehemently accused Lord Cheng of intending to betray Tianyou to Beiqi, presenting memorials from officials and soldiers in the North who claimed Lord Cheng oppressed them and disrupted governance. Prime Minister Huang insisted that as long as Lord Cheng remained in power, the border would never be peaceful, and he urged Chu Rang to strip Lord Cheng of his military duties and punish him for abusing his authority.

Other ministers echoed these demands. Despite his steadfast loyalty to Chu Rang and the court, Lord Cheng chose not to argue. Citing his advanced age and lingering injuries from recent battles, he requested to resign from all military posts. Chu Rang granted his request, acknowledging Lord Cheng's long years of service. However, it was widely believed that this was not a true resignation but a disguised dismissal, orchestrated to portray Lord Cheng as guilty and consolidate power.

Rumors spread on the streets that Lord Cheng was greedy for military achievements and sought to provoke war to regain control of the army, forcing the Emperor's hand. Upon learning of these developments, Jun Jiuling grew concerned for Lord Cheng. She found him and his wife already preparing to leave, having packed their belongings for the North.

Jiuling expressed her worry that Prime Minister Huang and Chu Rang would not let Lord Cheng go easily, urging Zhu Zan to safely escort his parents, emphasizing its utmost importance. Zhu Zan assured her he would stay and protect her, stating his own plans for vengeance would unfold gradually. Lord Cheng, in turn, comforted Jiuling, revealing he had long anticipated this day.

He reiterated that the credit he had given her truly belonged to her, explaining that while he was targeted, her reputation remained intact. He believed that by having her gain more renown, particularly as a doctor who healed the people, it would be enough to eventually challenge Chu Rang, as even the Emperor could not fully suppress public will. Just as Jiuling and Zhu Zan bid farewell, a palace messenger arrived, summoning Jiuling to attend to the Empress.

Before she left, Zhu Zan cautioned her not to act impulsively in the palace, reminding her that staying alive was paramount, especially since she had already "died once." As Jun Jiuling entered the palace, she encountered Ning Yunzhao. They exchanged brief, distant greetings to avoid raising suspicions from Prime Minister Huang. Ning Yunzhao, also summoned urgently, sensed a significant event was unfolding, believing Chu Rang was finally shedding his benevolent facade and eliminating remaining opposition.

He subtly advised Jiuling to be careful given her deep ties to Lord Cheng, stating his resolve to do his best to serve the people and the state amidst the court's turmoil.

Inside, Prime Minister Huang escalated his accusations against Lord Cheng, now referring to him as "Zhu Shan," presenting not only earlier civil official complaints but new memorials from officers and soldiers in the North, along with what he claimed were secret letters between "Zhu Shan" and the Crown Prince of Beiqi, proving treason. Chu Rang initially expressed disbelief but was swayed by the presented evidence, leading other ministers to clamor for "Zhu Shan's" immediate arrest.

Ning Yunzhao, witnessing the gravity of the accusations, worried about Jun Jiuling's safety given her connection to Lord Cheng. After Jiuling concluded her visit with the Empress, she left the inner chambers. As she navigated the palace grounds, Lu Yunqi intercepted her, ominously remarking on her "revisit" before forcibly taking her away. Unaware of Jiuling's abduction, Ning Yunzhao left the palace and saw Chen Qi still waiting anxiously outside the gates.

Unable to speak to him directly due to Prime Minister Huang's proximity, he departed in his carriage, pondering Jiuling's whereabouts. Jun Jiuling awoke to find herself in Lu Yunqi's mansion, a room lavishly decorated as a marital chamber, with Lu Yunqi himself dressed in wedding attire, his gaze filled with intense obsession. Her hands and feet were tied, making escape impossible. Jiuling immediately tried to scream for help, but Lu Yunqi calmly informed her the doors and windows were locked.

He declared it was their wedding day, producing a wedding dress identical to the one she wore during their previous marriage, telling her she had been gone for over a year and it felt like a dream. Jiuling furiously called him a madman, which he readily admitted, stating he was mad only for her. He then revealed his realization that she was not an incarnation but the real Jiuling returned, much to her horror.

Jiuling vehemently rejected him, reminding him they were always enemies and finding him disgusting. He misinterpreted her anger, thinking she blamed him for not saving her during her assassination attempt on Chu Rang, which he claimed was an act of protection. When he tried to approach, Jiuling snatched a stick and threatened to harm herself, desperately pleading to be released.

Lu Yunqi, retreating slightly, promised he was not mad, just a madman in love, and insisted he was protecting her from Chu Rang, who now suspected her. He called her his beloved and deceased wife, refusing to kill her, and offered to take her anywhere she wished. Jiuling continued to demand her freedom, angrily rejecting the food he brought her. Meanwhile, capital soldiers were dispatched to apprehend Lord Cheng.

They confronted him on the road, ordering him back to the capital to face treason charges. Lord Cheng defiantly refused to return, asserting that his sword had only ever spilled the blood of Tianyou's enemies, not its own people. He questioned whether the soldiers themselves would accept such humiliation, declaring he would rather die than return to the capital disgraced.

He spoke of his lifelong dedication to Tianyou's peace, not personal gain, and challenged them to truly say he was a traitor after his decades of selfless service. Moved by his unwavering integrity and loyalty, recognizing him as a true loyal general, the soldiers chose to defy their orders. One by one, they made way, allowing Lord Cheng and his family to pass safely, wishing him a safe journey and acknowledging his immense contribution to Tianyou's peace.

Back in the capital, Chen Qi waited until nightfall for Jun Jiuling, growing increasingly anxious as she did not appear. He discussed his concerns with Shopkeeper Liu, noting it was unlike Jiuling to leave him uninformed. Soon after, Ning Yunzhao approached them discreetly, having observed Chen Qi's distress from a distance earlier. Ning Yunzhao revealed his suspicion that Jiuling was in Lu Yunqi's hands.

Shopkeeper Liu confirmed Jiuling's disappearance, expressing despair that with Zhu Zan absent, there was no one to rescue her. Ning Yunzhao advised against any rash actions, promising to approach Lu Yunqi first to assess the situation. He also clarified that their earlier distant behavior was a pre-arranged act to mislead others, and he would secretly send updates. He subsequently confronted Lu Yunqi, demanding to know Jiuling's whereabouts.

Lu Yunqi, however, was unconcerned, stating that Emperor Chu Rang himself intended to eliminate Jiuling, making her rescue by Ning Yunzhao impossible at present. Despite this, Ning Yunzhao deduced that Lu Yunqi's profound obsession with Jiuling meant he would not harm her, and then notified Shopkeeper Liu not to act rashly. Later, Shopkeeper Liu and Chen Qi discussed Ning Yunzhao's note, which confirmed Jun Jiuling was indeed held by Lu Yunqi.

Chen Qi impulsively wanted to storm the Arm Moral Department, but Shopkeeper Liu restrained him, explaining such an act would be suicidal. They considered making Jiuling's abduction public to leverage popular opinion but dismissed the idea. With Lord Cheng now officially convicted of treason, Jiuling's close association with his family would make her disappearance easy for malicious parties to exploit, further muddying the waters.

They concluded that waiting patiently was their only option, finding a sliver of fortune in her being held by Lu Yunqi rather than Chu Rang, believing Lu Yunqi's profound obsession meant he would not harm her, unlike the Emperor. In the ensuing days, Lu Yunqi ensured Jiuling remained confined, though he personally brought her food daily and attempted to engage her, revealing outside news in hopes she would accept her situation.

He informed her that Lord Cheng had been convicted of treason and would face execution upon his return to the capital, dismissing the matter as irrelevant to them and insisting she call him "Yunqi," her husband. Jiuling, however, fiercely rejected him, finding him abhorrent, and reiterated her demand for freedom. He continually reassured her he was protecting her and would always keep her safe.

Meanwhile, at Jiuling Drugstore, staff were instructed to tell visitors that Dr. Jun had returned to Zezhou due to family matters, a lie to protect her whereabouts. Lu Yunqi mockingly told Jiuling that Ning Yunzhao had even tried to visit her, acknowledging Ning's deeper appreciation for her "soul." Unaware of Jiuling's desperate situation, Prime Minister Huang reported to Chu Rang that Lord Cheng had escaped and suggested numerous individuals must have aided him along the way.

Chu Rang ordered an investigation into who provided assistance. Prime Minister Huang confidently stated that Lu Yunqi would soon apprehend Lord Cheng. Lu Yunqi then reported his findings to Chu Rang, tracing Lord Cheng's last known location near Malüe Pass, suggesting he was heading towards Baozhou in the North. Surprised by this, Chu Rang dispatched Yuan Bao to alert the Earl of Qinghe to set an ambush.

After Prime Minister Huang departed, Chu Rang inquired about Jun Jiuling, whom Lu Yunqi claimed had returned to Zezhou due to a family dispute. Chu Rang then chillingly instructed Lu Yunqi to eliminate Jiuling, emphasizing that she must not be left alive to cause future trouble.

Episode 37 Recap

The Emperor, Chu Rang, had previously discussed the division of Deshengchang and Jun Jiuling's return to Zezhou, noting that the downfall of the Fang and Zhu families presented a good opportunity to strengthen control elsewhere. Meanwhile, in the North, Earl of Qinghe took over Zhu's army. He ordered General Wei to take his men to the Yongjing Army and General Wei himself to Jiaohe. General Wei expressed concern that such frequent and large-scale redeployment might offer an opening for Beiqi.

He suggested that the deployment seemed more like a strategy to withdraw, divide forces, and fragment power rather than strengthen defenses. He also implied that Earl of Qinghe was suppressing them because they were loyal to Lord Cheng, warning that Beiqi was a threat and internal strife should be avoided.

Earl of Qinghe, however, dismissed these concerns, ordering General Wei to be taken down and stating that Lord Cheng had fled to the North because he knew it was his territory and he would find protection there. General Wei insisted they were loyal to Tianyou, not Lord Cheng if he was guilty, but Earl of Qinghe cut him off and left.

This led to internal unrest, with some officers remarking that peace in the North was impossible as long as Lord Cheng, referred to as Zhu Shan, remained at large. Elsewhere, Lord Cheng and Madame Yu discussed their precarious situation, having been declared traitors by the Emperor, with anyone seeing them authorized to execute them.

They lamented that their broken engagement with Jun Jiuling had implicated her, but Lord Cheng comforted Madame Yu, reminding her that no one could have predicted these events and expressing hope that Jun Jiuling, now a Commandery Princess and renowned doctor, would overcome these challenges. Back in the capital, Chu Rang received alarming news: Earl of Qinghe had unilaterally altered the deployment, allowing Yu Chihai, Crown Prince of Beiqi, to launch a sudden attack.

The Beiqi Army had successfully penetrated their defenses, encircling Earl of Qinghe, with no word on his fate. Furthermore, half of the previously assigned reinforcements were now unaccounted for. Enraged, Chu Rang demanded to know if the enemy had been stopped, regardless of who was at fault. He was informed that the North Army had divided into three routes to intercept the Beiqi forces, with additional troops from Shandong and Shanxi en route, having reached Hebei.

Despite this, Chu Rang deduced that the enemy had not been stopped, furiously labeling his officials "a bunch of good-for-nothings." In the North, Earl of Qinghe's camp had been under siege for six days, awaiting reinforcements that should have arrived earlier. Reports then revealed that 50,000 of the 100,000 promised reinforcements had fled, leading to questions about how they could continue fighting. Soldiers speculated that such a mass desertion could only be under the secret orders of Lord Cheng.

Indeed, Lord Cheng revealed that 30,000 of his men were headed to the capital, and another 20,000 had successfully intercepted Beiqi's provisions as planned, set to rendezvous that night. He intended to lead his forces to relieve Earl of Qinghe, despite knowing he would be accused of unauthorized mobilization, acknowledging that Earl of Qinghe had caused disaster with his poor deployment and that Lord Cheng's intervention was necessary to prevent a swift defeat.

Meanwhile, Zhu Zan, Lord Cheng's son, proposed a bold counter-strategy: since Beiqi had committed most of its forces southward, their internal defenses must be weak. He suggested infiltrating enemy territory to assassinate the Beiqi emperor, aiming to decisively shift the tides of the war. Madame Yu, Zhu Zan's mother, vehemently opposed the dangerous mission. However, Lord Cheng, trusting his son's judgment and experience, reluctantly agreed, making Zhu Zan promise to return unharmed, regardless of the mission's outcome.

As Zhu Zan departed, Lord Cheng reassured Madame Yu of their son's capabilities, adding that if the assassination succeeded, he would immediately head to the capital, while she would remain in the North, hoping for their family's eventual reunion. Madame Yu pleaded for both her husband and son to return alive, to which Lord Cheng vowed they would. Separately, Zhu Zan internally reflected on Jiuling, expressing his determination to survive the perilous journey and return to her.

Surrounded, Earl of Qinghe's subordinates urged him to break through the weaker western side of the encirclement, reasoning that "where there is life, there is hope." They offered to stay and fight to cover his escape. However, Earl of Qinghe staunchly refused, declaring he would never flee from the enemy. He asserted that breaking ranks would shatter their morale, leading to a complete collapse and a direct path for the Beiqi Army to the capital.

He insisted that holding their ground offered a better chance of survival than fleeing, hoping for reinforcements to arrive for a decisive pincer attack. Just then, a report confirmed the arrival of reinforcements. Lord Cheng, identified by Earl of Qinghe as Zhu Shan, appeared and apologized for his belated arrival. Earl of Qinghe immediately accused Lord Cheng of deliberately abandoning them to prove himself a hero.

Lord Cheng's soldiers quickly explained that their commander had anticipated Beiqi's true intentions and had moved his forces to seize enemy provisions at Mount Song, intercept Beiqi's reinforcements in the north wing, and even rescue them when they were ambushed. Earl of Qinghe realized that Lord Cheng had known about his imminent ambush all along. Lord Cheng confirmed this, but swiftly refocused the conversation, revealing that 60,000 Beiqi cavalrymen had already reached the eastern capital road, directly threatening the capital.

He urged Earl of Qinghe to immediately dispatch aid to the capital and coordinate with the forces from Suning Pass. Earl of Qinghe was stunned, comprehending that Beiqi's primary objective had always been the capital, not the North, and feared its impending fall. Lord Cheng, however, maintained that the capital would not fall, explaining that he had already dispatched troops from Suning Pass to the capital earlier, hoping they could hold out until further reinforcements arrived.

He then questioned how the government troops along the way allowed Beiqi to march so far south unhindered. In the capital, Prime Minister Huang, having received grim frontline reports, feigned a desire to negotiate with Beiqi on behalf of Chu Rang. He also requested permission to lead the army in the eastern capital road to defend the city, with another official suggesting reinforcement of the west road. Chu Rang approved these measures.

Meanwhile, Lord Ning, recalling Lord Cheng's long experience with Beiqi, believed he possessed the expertise to save the capital from its impending fall. He earnestly implored Chu Rang to revoke his decree and reinstate Lord Cheng to lead the defense. Infuriated, Chu Rang refused, threatening to punish Lord Ning for his audacity. Fortunately, Ning Yunzhao intervened just in time, deftly deflecting Chu Rang's anger and saving Lord Ning from severe repercussions.

Simultaneously, Jin Shiba, a subordinate from the Arm Moral Department, was brought back to the department critically wounded after being ambushed by Beiqi forces, his life hanging by a thread. Distraught by Jin Shiba's severe injuries, Lu Yunqi insisted on taking Chu Jiuling away from the perilous capital. He warned her that the Beiqi Army was attacking, possibly having infiltrated the city by bribing officials, and that Earl of Qinghe was attempting to frame Lord Cheng.

He explained that Beiqi's tactics had weakened all defenses, making the city's fall imminent. However, Chu Jiuling resolutely refused to leave, declaring her intent to protect her father's state and uphold his vow to prosper the nation and safeguard its people. Lu Yunqi, admitting he had suspected her true identity as Commandery Princess Jiuling since her time in prison, confessed he had missed his chance to help her then but would not now.

He revealed his past actions, including marrying Princess Jiuli and rising to power within the Arm Moral Department, were all to protect those he cared about, including Jiuli, Jiurong, and now, her. He dismissed public scorn, asserting that his only concern was Chu Jiuling's well-being. Yet, Chu Jiuling stood firm, emphasizing that life was about distinguishing right from wrong, not merely survival.

She chose to follow her father's ambition and defend the people, even unto death, refusing to abandon Tianyou in its turbulent state. She urged Lu Yunqi to support her by letting her stay and fulfill her duty. Understanding her conviction, Lu Yunqi conceded that he had been mistaken in thinking she was safest by his side. He promised to look after Jiuli and Jiurong for her, accepting his past errors and stating he now knew his true path.

He then handed her a token, signifying the Arm Moral Department's protection would still be hers. After leaving Lu Yunqi, Chu Jiuling observed the unsuspecting calm of the capital's populace, who remained oblivious to the imminent Beiqi invasion. This deception fueled her hatred for Chu Rang, whom she scorned as a "fatuous ruler" for his disregard for his people's lives and his selfish intent to flee.

Inside the palace, Chu Rang ordered Eunuch Yuan to pack valuables for an immediate escape. As Ning Yunzhao assisted Eunuch Yuan, he subtly stole the imperial jade seal, an act witnessed by Lu Yunqi, who, however, feigned ignorance and continued his duties. Chu Rang shamelessly declared his willingness to abandon the capital and its vast population. The next morning, when the imperial court awaited Chu Rang in vain, officials discovered he had indeed fled overnight.

Upon her return to the Jiuling Drugstore, Chu Jiuling found Fang Jinxiu, Shopkeeper Liu, and Chen Qi there. She urgently informed them that the Beiqi Army, having breached the eastern and western roads, would reach the capital by tomorrow at the latest. She revealed Chu Rang's cowardly flight, leaving the city and its people abandoned. Recognizing the dire need for leadership, she decided to seek out Prince Xian.

She immediately assigned tasks: Fang Jinxiu and Shopkeeper Liu were to use all available funds from Deshengchang to purchase every weapon in the capital; Chen Qi was tasked with distributing these weapons and acquiring materials for further weapon production; and Liu'er was to secure grain reserves from major firms under the Jiuling Drugstore's name before nightfall to prevent price gouging and starvation during the impending siege.

Chu Jiuling rallied everyone, urging them to stand together, fearless and resolute, in the face of shared peril. Prince Xian was understandably shocked by the news of Chu Rang's desertion and the capital's vulnerability, noting the stark imbalance between the city's few thousand defenders and the tens of thousands of attacking forces. Chu Jiuling, however, countered that the hundreds of thousands of citizens could join the resistance, and that hope remained with the Northern reinforcements.

When Prince Xian expressed concern about his lack of imperial authority to mobilize the city's public security, Chu Jiuling firmly insisted he must adopt a decisive stance, reminding him that he was the only one capable of leading and that the lives of millions rested in his hands. She evoked his past words about defending the people and driving away the Beiqi forces.

When he questioned how she knew such personal details, Chu Jiuling revealed her true identity: "Because I am Jiuling, Chu Jiuling. I didn't die in that fire." Overwhelmed with emotion, Prince Xian recalled intimate memories of their shared past, like making osmanthus cakes for her birthdays. Chu Jiuling assured him that the procurement of weapons and provisions was already underway through the Jiuling Drugstore and Deshengchang.

Prince Xian, deeply moved, praised her courage, stating she would have been a top-tier talent in national defense had she been a man. He then pledged to mobilize the city public security and, if they resisted, would use his own mansion guards to barricade the city gates at dawn. They agreed to meet at the East Gate the following morning.

Before leaving, Chu Jiuling inquired about the whereabouts of Lord Cheng and Zhu Zan, but Prince Xian had no news since their escape from the capital. At the border, Zhu Zan and his companions finalized their plan to assassinate the Beiqi emperor, who was scheduled to reward his army the following day. Despite the high risks posed by heavy security and the daytime operation, they deemed it their only chance and opted for a small, covert team to avoid detection.

They received news that the Beiqi Army, having breached the eastern and western capital roads, was now closing in on the capital, intensifying the urgency of their mission. Zhu Zan affirmed their absolute need for success the next day, dispatching someone to scout the route, and privately thinking of Jiuling, asking her to wait for him. Following the assassination attempt, Zhu Zan was severely wounded.

Li Sanbing and Zhang Baotang, his companions, managed to bring him out of Beiqi territory and located Fang Chengyu, who had been hiding in the suburbs. Zhang Baotang explained that Zhu Zan had been critically injured while attempting to assassinate the Beiqi emperor to relieve their army's plight. Due to the active arrest warrant, they couldn't risk a public clinic and implored Fang Chengyu to find a reliable doctor.

Fang Chengyu agreed, arranging for them to be taken back and vowing to secure a trustworthy physician for Zhu Zan's treatment. Back at Lord Ning's mansion, his wife was distraught, but he calmly reassured her, praising Prince Xian for stepping up to lead and defending Ning Yunzhao's actions.

Lord Ning declared his unwavering commitment to national duty, asserting that despite the emperor's abandonment, he must go out to defend the city for the "principles of saints, the mission of the heaven and earth, and the people." He instructed his wife and children to seek refuge at home, while his household members pledged to follow him to defend the capital. Later, a crucial defense meeting convened, led by Prince Xian and Lord Ning.

Lord Ning emphasized the importance of proper defense and avoiding panic, outlining a plan to assign duties and fully mobilize all available resources. He took charge of arranging the defense deployment. He also proposed selecting able-bodied men from the populace to reinforce all four city gates and walls, particularly the North Gate due to its lower height and likelihood of being a primary attack point.

He decreed that drumbeats would signal concentrated defense, and the fight would continue as long as the drums sounded. Chen Qi was assigned to lead these civilian volunteers to Deshengchang for weapons, while Fang Jinxiu and Liu'er were tasked with organizing the willing citizens and ensuring a steady supply of provisions. Lord Ning expressed his gratitude to Prince Xian for his timely commitment, stating that "it'll never be late as long as you come."

Episode 38 Recap

Jun Jiuling was deeply concerned for Zhu Zan's safety, with Prince Xian having received no news of him. Despite her apprehension, Jun Jiuling redirected her focus to the pressing duty of defending the capital. During a meeting, Minister Ning proposed strategies for defending the capital, emphasizing the need to mobilize everyone, fortify all city gates, especially the vulnerable North Gate, and ensure proper resource allocation.

He tasked Chen Qi with acquiring weapons from Deshengchang with strong men, while Fang Jinxiu and Liu'er were assigned to organize civilian support and supplies. Minister Ning then raised concerns about the people's panic, noting that the combined prestige of Jun Jiuling and Prince Xian was insufficient to quell rumors accusing them of using citizens as shields.

To counter this, he suggested that Prince Huai, Jiurong, should stand with them, leveraging the late emperor's enduring popularity and Prince Huai's former status as a crown prince candidate. Although Prince Xian initially hesitated due to the inherent dangers, Jiurong bravely stepped forward, declaring his readiness to defend the city alongside them, considering it his duty.

Following this, Jun Jiuling subtly reminded Jiang Baihu of Lu Yunqi's expectations, prompting Jiang Baihu to pledge his absolute loyalty in protecting both her and the two princes. Meanwhile, Fang Chengyu successfully located a skilled physician for Zhu Zan, who was diagnosed with severe internal injuries, excessive blood loss, and a high fever from infection due to lack of rest. After receiving treatment and medication, Zhu Zan gradually regained consciousness.

His first words were to inquire about the date and the capital's situation. Upon learning it was the ninth day, he immediately expressed his urgent need to return to the capital, concerned for Jun Jiuling and aware that the city's inexperienced defenders would struggle against the Beiqi army. Despite Fang Chengyu's pleas for him to rest and warnings about the perilous journey, Zhu Zan insisted he was capable.

Fang Chengyu then volunteered to accompany him, but Zhu Zan declined, explaining that his perceived death by their enemies meant his return posed no threat to the Fang family, and that he could go alone. News of the approaching Beiqi army caused widespread panic, leading citizens to clamor for the city gates to be opened so they could flee.

Prince Xian tried to calm them, explaining the greater danger of facing Beiqi in the open and assuring them of his protection within the city's strong walls. However, their fears were exacerbated by the current emperor's departure, prompting them to demand answers. Prince Xian firmly reiterated that opening the gates would invite spies and lead to utter disaster. Stepping forward, Jiurong, identifying himself as Prince Huai, acknowledged the court's failings but vowed to remain and defend their home.

Though some initially dismissed him due to his youth, Prince Huai declared he would guard the city gate and, if it fell, he would be the first to die, never retreating. Jun Jiuling then addressed the clamoring crowd, introducing herself as Dr. Jun. She reminded them of her past successes in combating the smallpox epidemic and fighting Beiqi alongside Lord Cheng to save thousands.

She asserted that with unity, their more than 100,000 citizens, alongside the city's defenders, could successfully repel the 60,000 Beiqi invaders. Her words resonated, culminating in the people echoing a defiant chant, "Everyone can kill enemies." Elsewhere, a report reached Lord Cheng confirming that the Beiqi army besieging them had retreated, their morale shattered due to internal issues. Lord Cheng immediately inferred that Zhu Zan's mission to assassinate the Beiqi emperor must have succeeded.

Without hesitation, he commanded his army to swiftly march southward towards the capital. Despite his personal concern for Zhu Zan, Lord Cheng prioritized the state, declaring that if his son died for the country, it would be a worthy death. As the Beiqi army reached the capital's walls, their general boasted of breaking not only the city gate but also the will of its defenders. He ordered reinforcements for both sides of the city walls.

Prince Xian comforted Jiurong, who felt uncertain about his role, assuring him that his contributions were already significant. Jun Jiuling, however, admitted her own uncertainty regarding their chances of victory. Soon, the Beiqi forces began their assault, brazenly torturing and killing innocent civilians at the base of the city walls, demanding the gates be opened. Witnessing these atrocities, Prince Xian and Jun Jiuling were deeply pained, but they knew opening the gates would condemn everyone inside.

Jun Jiuling urged Jiurong to close his eyes and forever remember the horrific scenes unfolding before them, steeling their resolve to hold the line. In a suburban courtyard, Chu Rang expressed his astonishment that the capital had not yet fallen, but his surprise quickly turned to anger upon learning that Jun Jiuling had released Prince Huai. Lu Yunqi reassured Chu Rang, highlighting that the capital's prolonged resistance was drawing Beiqi's attention, making Chu Rang safer.

He also updated Chu Rang on Lord Cheng's forces, who were engaged in battle with Beiqi's rear guard outside the city. Chu Rang then pressed Lu Yunqi about the whereabouts of the lost imperial jade seal. Sensing Ning Yunzhao's discomfort, Lu Yunqi quickly intervened, falsely suggesting the jade seal was likely still in the Imperial Study, thereby shielding Ning Yunzhao from Chu Rang's displeasure. Later, Ning Yunzhao offered his thanks to Lu Yunqi.

Lu Yunqi, however, dismissed the gratitude, making it clear his actions were not for Ning Yunzhao but for Jun Jiuling. Meanwhile, Chen Qi, overseeing the distribution of weapons, observed the dwindling number of people available for food duty, as more and more went to defend the city walls. He regretfully informed Fang Jinxiu that he too would join the fight on the ramparts once the weapons were delivered.

Fang Jinxiu expressed her deep worry for his safety, reiterating her commitment to die alongside him and Jun Jiuling if necessary. Elsewhere, Mr. Gu approached Jun Jiuling, revealing that Lu Yunqi had entrusted him with the task of escorting her and Prince Huai, Jiurong, to safety. Mr. Gu argued that Prince Huai had already gained sufficient prestige and that staying in the capital, which he believed was doomed, was too dangerous.

Jun Jiuling firmly rejected the offer, stating that she and Jiurong would fight until the very last moment. She declared that Jiurong's defense of the city was not for personal glory or a claim to the throne, but an inescapable duty of the Chu family to protect the city that had safeguarded them for decades. She then urged Mr. Gu to leave if he did not intend to stay and fight.

As Beiqi's relentless assault intensified and the city gate began to falter, Jun Jiuling and Jiurong ascended the city wall, beating the war drums to rally the entire city. Inside, Chen Qi and the soldiers valiantly struggled to hold the gate against repeated onslaughts. Witnessing their exhaustion, Fang Jinxiu, along with other women and children, bravely rushed forward, forming a desperate human wall to reinforce the faltering gate, embodying the city's collective will to resist.

Episode 39 Recap

Outside the capital city, the sounds of battle raged, and the drums on the city wall intensified as the massive Beiqi army advanced like an overwhelming tide. The defenders of the capital had largely fallen, their formation shattered, shields splintering, and blood splattering. Amidst this chaos, Chu Jiuling fearlessly continued to beat the war drum. Seeing Jiurong almost succumb to the enemy, she loudly encouraged him.

Though initially afraid, Jiurong, strengthened by her words, declared himself unafraid and urged everyone to fight the invaders. Just as Jiurong was on the brink of death, Zhu Zan arrived with reinforcements. Lord Cheng Zhu Shan and Earl of Qinghe Zou Jiang also led their troops to the capital. News then reached the Beiqi general that their emperor had been assassinated, and that the Second Prince had already retreated.

His subordinate urged him to return to prevent infighting among the princes for the throne. Facing potential heavy casualties if they continued alone, the Beiqi general ordered a full withdrawal. A voice from the Tianyou forces then announced that the enemy emperor had been killed, and King Dapeng's army was surrounded, urging surrender. Inside the palace, Chu Rang was astonished to learn the capital city had been held, eager to understand how.

Chu Jiuling, having successfully defended her father's empire, finally collapsed from exhaustion into Zhu Zan's arms. The good news reached Chu Rang, but his momentary joy quickly turned to worry. He pondered how his people would view him now that Zhu Zan, whom he had previously accused of treason based on Prime Minister Huang Cheng's slanders, had saved the capital.

Ning Yunzhao advised him, explaining that the accusation of treason against Lord Cheng was solely Prime Minister Huang Cheng's doing, and Chu Rang had merely trusted him. Ning Yunzhao suggested that Prime Minister Huang Cheng's disappearance was a sign of his guilt, as he likely fled under the guise of peace negotiations.

He further explained that Dr. Jun and Prince Xian had already disseminated a story: before the siege, Chu Rang had departed to the imperial mausoleum to atone for the war that had caused suffering. Though unable to return during the siege, his heart remained with the capital, and even Zhu Zan's assassination and Lord Cheng's and Earl of Qinghe's return were presented as being under Chu Rang's command.

Satisfied with this narrative, Chu Rang ordered preparations for his triumphant return to the capital the next morning. After dismissing his officials, Chu Rang bade Lu Yunqi stay behind. He mused on Jun Jiuling's motives, suspecting her intentions were deeper than just begging for Lord Cheng's mercy.

He pointed out that she released Prince Huai, who then delivered a speech on the streets, implying solidarity with the suffering people and subtly criticizing the court – words Chu Rang believed Jun Jiuling had orchestrated to allude to him. He expressed growing apprehension about Jun Jiuling's ability to incite the people, fearing she could rally them to do other things as she had done in defending the city. He ordered Lu Yunqi to kill her.

Lu Yunqi, citing the sanctity of imperial decrees, reluctantly agreed. Later, Ning Yunzhao confronted Lu Yunqi, confirming Chu Rang's murderous intent. Ning Yunzhao revealed his own desire for a peaceful and prosperous era under a wise emperor and good ministers, hinting at his role in hiding the imperial seal and advocating for Prince Huai, the rightful heir after the late emperor's death, to ascend the throne. Lu Yunqi confirmed that Chu Rang planned to act after the imperial awards ceremony.

With the conflict settled, a sense of calm returned to Tianyou. Zhu Zan diligently watched over Chu Jiuling until she gradually awakened, a visible wave of relief washing over him. He tenderly assured her of his safe return. Jiurong then entered, expressing his gratitude to Jun Jiuling, admitting that her courage had inspired his own bravery on the ramparts. Zhu Zan, however, questioned why she attributed all the credit for the city's defense to Chu Rang.

Jun Jiuling explained her strategic reasoning: she needed to lure Chu Rang back to the capital to settle old scores. Chu Jiuli, also present, expressed relief that the capital was secured and thanked Jun Jiuling on behalf of the Chu family, though she voiced concern about Jiurong's safety given his public exposure during the siege.

After Zhu Zan left to allow them privacy, Chu Jiuling began to recite a childhood nursery rhyme, a secret only she and her elder sister, Chu Jiuli, knew. Chu Jiuli recognized the rhyme and recalled a moment from their childhood involving "Lady Worms," confirming Jun Jiuling's identity as her younger sister, "Ling'er." Chu Jiuli was bewildered by her sister's changed appearance and voice.

Jun Jiuling explained that without the Jun family's help, she would not have survived to see them again. Jiurong, too, was overjoyed, embracing his "Second Sister" and expressing his disbelief that she was alive. Chu Jiuli, deeply emotional, questioned why Jun Jiuling hadn't revealed herself sooner. Jun Jiuling explained the perilous circumstances of her marriage to Lu Yunqi and his growing suspicions due to her very name, making it dangerous to expose her true identity.

She had been waiting for the right moment to confess everything to them. Chu Jiuli, heartbroken by her sister's solitary burden, vowed that from now on, they would face all challenges together as a family. The night before her entry into the palace, Chu Jiuling and Zhu Zan conversed by the lake. Zhu Zan inquired if she was nervous, assuring her that justice would prevail.

Jun Jiuling informed him that Fang Chengyu had returned with her and was safely settled in the Sky Pavilion to avoid detection, noting his increased maturity after their shared experiences. Both reflected on their personal growth. Chu Jiuling asked about the dangers of assassinating the Beiqi emperor, which Zhu Zan downplayed, though he affirmed his willingness to die for the well-being of the people.

Chu Jiuling, however, urged him to always remember her worry if he were to take such risks again, confessing how much she had missed him and feared losing him during their separation. Zhu Zan reciprocated, describing the emptiness he felt without her and how his sole motivation for survival during the assassination was the thought of her. He then confessed his love for her multiple times, leading to a heartfelt exchange.

Under the guise of restored peace, Chu Rang made a grand return to the capital, summoning Lord Cheng Zhu Shan, Earl of Qinghe Zou Jiang, Zhu Zan, and County Princess Shanyang Jun Jiuling to the hall for awards. Chu Rang lavished praise upon Lord Cheng and Earl of Qinghe for their contributions to Beiqi's defeat.

He then lauded Jun Jiuling for her wisdom, decisiveness, and care for the people, declaring her a model for all women and formally conferring upon her the title of Princess Shanyang. However, Jun Jiuling remained motionless, neither acknowledging the honor nor displaying any emotion, which bewildered the assembled officials and prompted a eunuch to reprimand her.

As Chu Rang prepared to charge Jun Jiuling with disrespect, Zhu Zan swiftly intervened, redirecting the conversation by pleading for his father, Lord Cheng, to be vindicated. Chu Rang attempted to defer the matter, citing Prime Minister Huang Cheng's disappearance as an obstacle to finding evidence. However, Prince Huai dramatically entered, personally escorting the captured Prime Minister Huang Cheng into the hall.

Prince Huai explained that Prime Minister Huang Cheng had been found outside the city attempting to meet Yu Chihai, a Beiqi official, and was almost killed by Beiqi soldiers before Prince Huai's guards rescued him. Prime Minister Huang Cheng vehemently protested his innocence, but Chu Rang, feigning anger, accused him of colluding with the enemy and disrupting the court, ordering him to be taken away.

Lord Cheng quickly interjected, demanding an immediate confrontation with Prime Minister Huang Cheng to clear his name in front of the court, arguing that failing to do so would undermine the stability of the court and the morale of the military, and damage Chu Rang's reputation. Numerous officials voiced their agreement, supporting Lord Cheng's demand for a public reckoning.

Pressured by the officials, Chu Rang directly questioned Prime Minister Huang Cheng, who admitted to fabricating the accusations of treason against Lord Cheng. He confessed it was a personal vendetta, as he could not forgive Zhu Zan for killing his son, Ziqing, and thus sought an opportunity for revenge. Chu Rang, pretending outrage, ordered Prime Minister Huang Cheng to be handed over to the Supreme Court for thorough interrogation.

However, Prince Xian immediately interjected, advocating for Prime Minister Huang Cheng's swift execution by slicing, citing his betrayal of the nation and framing of a loyal minister as crimes warranting the most severe punishment according to imperial law. Under this immense pressure, Chu Rang reluctantly agreed to the death sentence. As he faced his impending execution, Prime Minister Huang Cheng, in desperation, cried out, "Have you forgotten what happened in the third year of the Taiyan period?"

Chu Rang, horrified by the outburst, immediately ordered him to be dragged away. Lord Cheng stopped them, demanding to know the truth behind Prime Minister Huang Cheng's words.

Amidst the mounting tension, Fang Chengyu unexpectedly entered the hall, announcing he was there on behalf of the Fang family to express gratitude for Chu Rang's trust in them during the third year of Taiyan, when a batch of silver was entrusted to their family, leading to the prosperity of their business, Deshengchang. When Chu Rang tried to dismiss the silver as fake, Fang Chengyu produced the actual imperial treasury silver from the third year of Taiyan, confirming its authenticity.

He then revealed that this was the only batch of silver produced by the court in that year, intended as a ransom to redeem the late emperor. This revelation proved that Beiqi had never received the ransom and thus did not betray their word by killing the late emperor; rather, the silver had never even left the capital, deeply implicating Chu Rang in the late emperor's demise. Fang Chengyu also subtly alluded to Chu Rang's past attempt to burn him alive, further escalating the confrontation.

Episode 40 (Ending) Recap

With Fang Chengyu's courageous revelation of Chu Rang's crimes, a stunned silence fell over the imperial hall, followed by gasps from the assembled officials. Although some older ministers had harbored doubts about the ransom, they kept their suspicions hidden, fearing to touch upon such a dangerous subject.

Fang Chengyu declared that the silver meant for the ransom was not counterfeit but the only batch produced in the third year of the Taiyuan period, specifically for the redemption of the late emperor from Zezhou. He asserted that the Northern Qi had not betrayed their word by killing the late emperor after receiving the ransom; rather, the silver never reached Zezhou at all, implying a frame-up.

Chu Rang immediately accused Fang Chengyu and others of colluding to frame him and plot rebellion, ordering imperial guards to seize them. However, he found himself surrounded by Arm Moral Department forces, led by Lu Yunqi, who declared he had failed to protect "her" in the past and would not repeat the same mistake. Chu Rang, desperate, reiterated his status as the legitimate emperor who inherited the throne from his father and brother, daring anyone to convict him.

However, his authority crumbled as Chu Jiuling, or her allies, reminded him how he ascended the throne. They revealed that the late emperor had secretly investigated Chu Rang, who, fearing exposure for embezzling silver, killed his own brother to seize power. Furthermore, during his reign, Chu Rang had been swayed by crafty sycophants, estranged wise ministers, ceded three counties, and increased taxes, plunging the people into hardship. It was proclaimed that he was unfit to be emperor.

To substantiate these claims, Bing'er, the imperial maid of the late emperor, stepped forward. She testified that the late emperor had been in good health, refuting claims of sudden illness, and that on the night of his death, Chu Rang secretly entered the palace. After he left, Bing'er saw distinct strangulation marks on the late emperor's neck.

Lu Yunqi then confessed that he had been on duty in the imperial palace that night and had witnessed Chu Rang strangling the late emperor in the Imperial Study after hearing the late emperor's cries for help. As the truth emerged, the imperial guards faltered, unwilling to protect Chu Rang, who became hysterical, denying his actions and branding everyone mad.

Lu Yunqi, despite Chu Rang's desperate pleas about their past relationship, finally revealed the full truth: his loyalty now lay with Chu Jiuling, because she was Princess Jiuling, still alive. Chu Jiuling confirmed her identity, telling Chu Rang that she had returned step by step to face him directly and avenge her father. She accused him of usurping the throne, believing corrupt officials, neglecting loyal ones, leading to loyal ministers sacrificing their lives, and causing the state to nearly collapse.

Seeing Chu Rang utterly defeated, the assembled ministers, now enlightened by the truth and the presence of the true heir, knelt in unison, welcoming Princess Jiuling back to the palace. Chu Jiuling, addressing her deceased father, proclaimed that an immoral emperor should not rule the world. Though the dramatic events unfolded within the tightly sealed hall, outside, life continued as usual, with market vendors and patrolling guards oblivious to the seismic shift in power.

Only the anomalous sky hinted at divine retribution. Chu Jiuling decided not to kill Chu Rang, but rather to let him live, suffering the eternal scorn and condemnation of the Tianyou people, which she deemed a far greater punishment. With the transition of power complete, Ning Yunzhao presented the imperial jade seal to Chu Jiuling.

He explained that he had secretly hidden it and had acted as a "traitor minister" by observing Chu Rang's every move, not just for Chu Jiuling, but for the future peace and prosperity of Tianyou, to protect loyal officials from Chu Rang's suspicious and cowardly rule.

While he initially proposed enthroning Prince Huai, citing his intelligence and determination despite his youth, Chu Jiuling, after careful consideration and consultation with Zhu Zan, decided against it, noting that Prince Huai (Jiurong) was still too young for such a heavy responsibility. Instead, she argued that true imperial power lay in the hearts of the people, not merely on the throne.

She proposed Prince Xian as the most suitable candidate, highlighting his bravery, wisdom, orthodox lineage as the late emperor's direct bloodline, and the popularity he gained by standing with the people during the recent conflicts. Later, Lu Yunqi sought out Chu Jiuling. As others respectfully withdrew, Lu Yunqi recalled his first day on duty in the palace, meeting her, and how her passing by had become the happiest moments of his life, like a dream.

He acknowledged his role as an accomplice in her father's death, admitting he had a chance to save the late emperor but hesitated due to a single misguided thought. Offering his life as atonement, he said he had nothing else to give. Chu Jiuling, tightly gripping a dagger, plunged it towards him, but intentionally avoided a fatal blow.

This symbolic act was her way of severing their complicated past, declaring their ties broken and forgiving herself, believing that the true punishment for him was to be forever estranged, never to meet again. As spring faded into early summer, the Jiuling Drugstore buzzed with joyful celebration. Fang Chengyu, Chen Qi, and Fang Jinxiu, now married, were among the lively crowd.

Chen Qi often teased Fang Jinxiu about her past promise to marry him if he returned alive, while she playfully denied it. Fang Chengyu, seeing Chu Jiuling as his own sister regardless of blood, affectionately called her his "princess sister." Amidst the revelry, a servant announced the arrival of Ning Yunzhao, who wished to speak with Chu Jiuling privately. Zhu Zan, though feigning magnanimity, showed clear signs of jealousy.

When others openly commented on Ning Yunzhao being a popular choice for a husband among young women, Zhu Zan, feeling a bit "dizzy" from the wine and the conversation, decided to look for hangover medicine, knowing full well it was located near the front hall where Ning Yunzhao was waiting. He secretly observed Chu Jiuling and Ning Yunzhao playing Go, feeling a weight lift from his heart before rejoining the others for drinks.

Ning Yunzhao had come to bid farewell, knowing that Chu Jiuling was soon to embark on a journey to the North with Lord Cheng's family for her impending marriage. They decided to play one last game of Go. As they placed their pieces, the moment echoed their first encounter at the Lantern Festival, when they played a blind Go match, fostering an unspoken understanding between them.

Ning Yunzhao commented on Chu Jiuling's decisive and thoughtful moves, admitting he was consistently outmatched. He reflected on life's encounters and partings, noting how he had always felt alone until meeting her that night. He then publicly reaffirmed his engagement with her from his days as the No. 1 Scholar, stating that while many might be unhappy about it, he had since let go of those expectations.

Chu Jiuling, without preparing tea for his visit, offered a pear as a substitute, marking the bittersweet end of their journey together. Ning Yunzhao accepted, acknowledged the end of their game and their shared path, and bid her farewell, disappearing into the night. Following these events, the capital city returned to an era of peace and prosperity.

Fang Chengyu returned to Zezhou to reunite with his family, while Chen Qi and Fang Jinxiu remained in the capital, managing the Jiuling Drugstore. Prince Xian was enthroned as emperor, with the Ning family leading the officials in respectfully paying homage, symbolizing a new, grander era for the ancient palace. Meanwhile, Zhu Zan took Chu Jiuling to the North. He showed her the beautiful northern manjusaka flowers he had promised.

He then confessed that their future life together would not always be easy, but with her by his side, he would face any hardship with joy. He lovingly called her "Ling Jiu" and asked her to marry him, proposing they travel the world, enjoy its mountains and rivers, and spend the rest of their lives together.

Chu Jiuling readily accepted, expressing her desire for a diverse life with him, to be with him day and night, and to cherish him forever, promising they would never separate. As he took her hand, Zhu Zan told her that compared to her, high mountains, broad rivers, twinkling stars, and the bright moon were all negligible. He promised that whether she was Jun Jiuling or Chu Jiuling, he would give her whatever she desired and he possessed, vowing to keep his promise to her for life.