Love Better Than Immortality Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Love Better Than Immortality Synopsis
The quirky and whimsical modern city girl, Lei Lei, lives in a technologically advanced era where time-travel novels flood the internet. Through a company called "Zhong Su Shu," anyone can pay to be transported to ancient times. Eager to experience the thrill of time travel, Lei Lei spends 20,000 yuan to穿越 (transmigrate) into a fictional martial arts world under the alias "Chun Hua". There, she becomes entangled in a romantic storyline with two young men standing on opposing sides—one clad in white, the other in black.
Love Better Than Immortality Recap
Episode 1 Recap
In 2169, humanity has achieved immortality, but love has been reduced to physiological stimulation via a VR helmet. A young woman named Hua Xiaolei rejects this superficial existence and gives up her immortality for a chance at true love, facilitated by the Tianlei System. Before being transported to a new world, she lists her requirements for her "Mr. Right": handsome, faithful, powerful, and doting, in a story full of twists and sweet moments.
The system assigns her the romance theme, "When Will the Spring Flowers and Autumn Moon End?" , and tells her that the first man she sees will be her destiny. Upon waking, Hua Xiaolei sees a handsome man and, remembering the system's rule, joyfully calls him "Darling." The man, Xiao Bai, son of the Wulin Alliance Leader, immediately presses his sword to her neck. Far from being scared, Hua Xiaolei finds the thrilling start appealing.
Xiao Bai is at the Medical Sage's residence seeking an immortality fruit for his father, only to find the Sage murdered and Hua Xiaolei the only one at the scene. One of Xiao Bai's followers, Feng Zhangmen, accuses her of the crime and moves to kill her. Just then, a man in black, Fu Lou, the Master of Chuanqi Valley, throws bamboo leaves to deflect the sword, saving Hua Xiaolei.
Fu Lou, who is also seeking the fruit for his ailing wife, escapes with Xiao Bai in pursuit. Observing Hua Xiaolei's hands, Xiao Bai deduces she is not a martial artist and thus unlikely to be the murderer. Xiao Bai takes her back to Fengming Manor. In the Medical Sage’s belongings, he finds a medical record for a woman named "Chunhua," who was apparently resurrected by the immortality fruit.
Hua Xiaolei assumes this identity, and despite finding the name "rustic," she embraces the amnesia as an "interesting setting" and begins to call herself Chunhua. Meanwhile, a report reaches Shangguan Qiuyue, the lord of the villainous Thousand Moon Cave. His subordinate, Chief Ye, informs him that Hua Xiaolei—who had previously betrayed Qiuyue and died—has been resurrected, lost her memory, and is now with Xiao Bai.
Qiuyue dismisses the immortality fruit as a hoax but is amused that his former subordinate is now with his rival. At Fengming Manor, Chunhua relentlessly flirts with the stoic Xiao Bai, who remains utterly unresponsive. He assigns a handmaiden, Lüxiu, to both protect and monitor her. During dinner, Lüxiu explains that Shangguan Qiuyue is the chief of the evil Thousand Moon Cave and an enemy of the orthodox martial arts world.
Misunderstanding her "Chunhua and Qiuyue" theme, Chunhua briefly wonders if Qiuyue is a powerful relative, but Lüxiu clarifies the deep animosity between them. Lüxiu adds that Qiuyue is rumored to be hideously ugly and kills anyone who sees his true face. Later, Lüxiu takes Chunhua into the mountains to forage. Chunhua feigns exhaustion to get out of walking.
When Lüxiu expresses surprise that she cannot use lightness skill, a basic martial art at Fengming Manor, Chunhua playfully teases her about having feelings for Xiao Bai. Lüxiu denies it, revealing that Xiao Bai has been engaged since childhood to a woman named Hua Xiaolei, who mysteriously died before their wedding. Overjoyed that Xiao Bai is technically single, Chunhua remains blissfully unaware that she is the deceased fiancée. Lüxiu leaves Chunhua to rest, telling her not to wander off.
Chunhua immediately explores a nearby bamboo grove, where she finds a handsome, long-haired man in white relaxing on a rope. Suddenly, a green snake appears on Chunhua and tries to bite her, but the man swiftly saves her, and the snake transforms into a vine. When she offers a reward, he playfully insists that only she can repay him—by marrying him. To fend him off, Chunhua claims to be Xiao Bai's future wife.
Just then, a woman in purple from Thousand Moon Cave arrives and recognizes her. Panicked, Chunhua improvises, declaring herself to be Shangguan Chunhua, the older sister of Shangguan Qiuyue. To her horror, the man in white reveals that he is Shangguan Qiuyue. Feigning amnesia, Chunhua listens as Qiuyue explains that she is indeed his younger sister, Chunhua. He claims she was injured and lost her memory while on a mission to steal a secret manual from Fengming Manor for him.
To prove their connection, he uses a dart to expose a pink, flower-bud-shaped birthmark on her shoulder, the reason for her name. Convinced, Chunhua is left puzzled as to why the real Shangguan Qiuyue is so handsome when he was described as an ugly monster.
Episode 2 Recap
Chunhua expressed her strong displeasure when Shangguan Qiuyue, the Chief of Thousand Moon Cave, used a dart to rip open her collar, stating it was improper and exposed her privacy. Qiuyue, feigning indifference, then threatened to gouge out Star Deputy Chief Ye's eyes, claiming Ye Xingzhu had just attacked him and disturbed his reunion with Chunhua. To save Star Deputy Chief Ye, Chunhua promised to help Qiuyue steal the mental cultivation method from Fengming Manor.
Qiuyue warned Chunhua to be extremely careful not to let Xiao Bai discover her true identity, threatening that she would be cut in half like Lüxiu if her secret was revealed. Startled, Chunhua briefly looked away, and when she looked back, both Qiuyue and Star Deputy Chief Ye had vanished. Calling out for Qiuyue to the empty air, Chunhua was interrupted by Lüxiu, who had returned to the bamboo grove.
Lüxiu was curious about Chunhua talking to herself, but Chunhua quickly explained it away as part of her daily singing practice. Meanwhile, Star Deputy Chief Ye congratulated Qiuyue on "winning over Hua Xiaolei again," confirming Chunhua's actual name. Qiuyue revealed his intention to reshape Hua Xiaolei since she had lost her memory, finding her renewed connection with Xiao Bai amusing.
He further elaborated that by posing as her brother, Hua Xiaolei could continue to help him steal the mental cultivation method from the Xiao family, and he instructed Star Deputy Chiefs Gu and He to accelerate the acquisition of methods from other sects, noting that the Xiao family's method should be left to Hua Xiaolei. Back at Fengming Manor, Chunhua was troubled. She realized Xiao Bai loathed the evil sect, while Qiuyue was ruthless.
Feeling caught between a rock and a hard place, she decided to seek clarity directly from Xiao Bai. As she began to speak, a subordinate interrupted with urgent news for Xiao Bai: the mental cultivation methods of the Hengshan Sect, Kuishan Sect, and Mangshan Sect had been stolen by Thousand Moon Cave, causing Chief Mo to fall ill. Angered, Xiao Bai declared his resolve to stop Thousand Moon Cave's actions.
Witnessing this, Chunhua realized she could not directly confess her situation to him. Instead, she changed her question, asking if he had someone special in his heart. Xiao Bai, unaccustomed to such forwardness, found Chunhua to be a "frivolous girl." Chunhua, in turn, called him a "big blockhead" and "stubborn." He then dispatched his disciples to address the crisis at the various sects.
Chunhua tried to assure him she could wait for his attention until he completed his important martial arts duties, though one of Xiao Bai's disciples commented on her strange way of thinking, noting their young master was not preoccupied with her. To further her mission, Chunhua volunteered to become Xiao Bai's personal maid. However, Xiao Bai declined her offer, and Lüxiu playfully remarked that Chunhua resembled the "76th Junior in the kitchen."
To prevent Chunhua from disturbing Xiao Bai, Lüxiu assigned her the demanding task of chopping firewood, specifying precise requirements for the pieces. Despite her complaints about being a weak girl forced into such labor, Chunhua reluctantly headed out with her small bamboo basket. She soon encountered Xiao Bai engaged in intense swordsmanship practice. A clever idea came to Chunhua: she proposed to "test" Xiao Bai's sword skills, subtly leading him to chop the firewood for her.
Xiao Bai, touched by her company and her effort to tidy his training area, diligently completed the task. Thanks to his efforts, Chunhua quickly finished the considerable workload Lüxiu had assigned, much to Lüxiu's surprise. Chunhua resolved to approach Xiao Bai with endlessly patient determination. Later that night, Qiuyue abducted Chunhua and brought her to Thousand Moon Cave.
Remembering her own flower petal-shaped birthmark, Chunhua wondered if Qiuyue's name was also linked to a moon-shaped birthmark and asked to see his. Qiuyue teasingly feigned to undress and invited her to "examine" him, but Chunhua, embarrassed, refused, citing the impropriety of such an act between siblings. Qiuyue then inquired about her progress in stealing the mental cultivation method.
Chunhua expressed moral qualms, explaining that Xiao Bai had taken her in after she lost her memory, and stealing from him felt wrong. Qiuyue countered that the orthodox sects and the evil sect were irreconcilable, warning that if Xiao Bai discovered Chunhua was his sister, he would show her no mercy. Chunhua attempted to dissuade Qiuyue from his conflict with Xiao Bai. Noticing her wavering resolve, Qiuyue cunningly offered to let her stay in Thousand Moon Cave.
The thought of being unable to cultivate a relationship with Xiao Bai, her designated Mr. Right, if confined to the cave, immediately prompted Chunhua to reaffirm her loyalty to Qiuyue and agree to return to Fengming Manor to attempt to steal the method for him. Qiuyue promised to protect her in secret. Qiuyue arranged for Star Deputy Chief Gu to transport Chunhua back to Fengming Manor.
Chunhua was displeased with being carried like a "sack" and demanded a more dignified mode of transport, emphasizing her identity as Qiuyue's sister. Qiuyue then instructed Star Deputy Chief Gu to find a carriage for her. Along the way, Qiuyue once again playfully brought up the topic of birthmarks. In a moment of desperation, Chunhua blurted out "Xiao Bai!" to startle Qiuyue, who reacted with annoyance. Chunhua quickly changed the subject, flattering Qiuyue's beauty and lamenting her own ordinary appearance.
She suggested that if she possessed even half of Qiuyue's good looks, acquiring the mental cultivation method would be effortless. Qiuyue recognized this as Chunhua's intention to use a honey trap, which displeased him, and he explicitly forbade her from resorting to such a tactic, calling it shameful.
Following their conversation, a Star Deputy Chief expressed his suspicion to Qiuyue that Chunhua might be Hua Xiaolei and questioned if Qiuyue's plan for her was linked to Xiao Bai's incomplete mastery of Fengming Swordsmanship. Qiuyue gave a cryptic response about safety, hinting that those without eyes and ears are the safest, and then instructed the Star Deputy Chief to closely monitor Qin Liufeng, who was headed to Fengming Manor and had not yet met Hua Xiaolei.
Upon her return to Fengming Manor, Chunhua felt disheartened by Qiuyue's words. She tentatively asked Xiao Bai how he would react if he were to encounter a follower of the evil sect. Xiao Bai responded adamantly that good and evil were implacably opposed, and it was his family's duty to eliminate evildoers, asserting he would never befriend such a person. Chunhua was visibly disappointed by his unyielding stance.
She then invited Xiao Bai to watch the evening sunset, but he declined, preferring to continue his swordsmanship practice. Chunhua playfully called him an unromantic "blockhead." During his practice, Xiao Bai demonstrated a new move by effortlessly chopping Chunhua's firewood into neat, uniform pieces. Xiao Bai then realized Chunhua had been using his prized Fengming Sword for this purpose and became furious, accusing her of defiling his family's renowned sword, which was meant for upholding justice.
Chunhua defended herself by pointing out he used it to chop bamboos, so it should be the same. Their argument yielded no resolution, and they went their separate ways. Chunhua privately lamented Xiao Bai's inflexibility. Lüxiu later approached Chunhua, delivering a message from Xiao Bai: she no longer needed to chop firewood and should stop trying to get close to him. Feeling disheartened, Chunhua expressed her frustration, labeling Xiao Bai a "brainless blockhead" and accusing Lüxiu of mocking her.
At that moment, Qin Liufeng arrived, seeking Xiao Bai. Qin Liufeng recognized Chunhua as the weak girl Xiao Bai had saved from Medical Sage's medicine hall. Noticing her affectionate use of "Xiao Bai" when referring to him, he deduced their unusual relationship. Qin Liufeng introduced himself as the son of Chief Qin Daoxian of Dongshan Sect and complimented Chunhua's name, to which she returned a compliment about his romantic nature.
Xiao Bai then appeared, and Qin Liufeng greeted him, remarking on his continued vigor and his resemblance to a future Leader of Wulin Alliance. Xiao Bai then invited Qin Liufeng to state the true purpose of his visit.
Episode 3 Recap
Qin Liufeng came looking for Chun Hua, who immediately took the opportunity to inquire about Xiao Bai’s preferences. Qin Liufeng gave vague, philosophical answers, suggesting Xiao Bai was too profound to be understood and never judged things by his personal likes or dislikes. Qin Liufeng then shrewdly guessed that Chun Hua was more interested in Xiao Bai’s romantic interests than his hobbies. Chun Hua next asked about Xiao Bai’s previous engagement.
Qin Liufeng revealed that Xiao Bai had been engaged to Miss Hua, Hua Xiaolei, a beautiful and intelligent girl from a wealthy family. However, she tragically died in a fire before meeting Xiao Bai, and her body was never found, which Qin Liufeng found very strange. Chun Hua, however, was overjoyed, declaring that this meant she and Xiao Bai were "decreed by fate," much to Qin Liufeng’s visible exasperation.
Initially planning a lunch with Xiao Bai for himself, Qin Liufeng then offered to include Chun Hua, which thrilled her. Meanwhile, Qin Liufeng met with Xiao Bai, confirming he brought Chun Hua from Eight Immortals Medicine Hall. Despite her lack of martial arts, her presence during Medical Sage's death and her amnesia made her identity suspicious, leading Xiao Bai to seek Qin Liufeng’s help. Their conversation then shifted to Medical Sage’s death.
Qin Liufeng detailed the fatal knife wound, noting it went straight to the heart and was surprisingly inflicted by a firewood knife. Qin Liufeng then pointed out an even more suspicious detail: a shallow palm mark on Medical Sage’s body that caused his death by breaking his cardiac pulses. They concluded that Medical Sage must have been attacked without precaution by someone familiar.
Chun Hua arrived, elaborately dressed for what she believed was her date with Xiao Bai, unaware it was a setup by Xiao Bai and Qin Liufeng to learn her identity through her eating habits. She explained that every stitch in her outfit represented her sincere feelings for Xiao Bai, though Qin Liufeng subtly mocked its perceived cheapness. Chun Hua also brought ginseng soup for Xiao Bai, insisting he drink it for his hard training.
During the meal, Qin Liufeng illustrated how an acquaintance might attack by suddenly pushing Chun Hua. Xiao Bai instinctively caught her, much to Chun Hua’s delight. Qin Liufeng elaborated that Medical Sage's death was likely a similar ambush by an acquaintance. Xiao Bai connected the dots, but then realized he was still holding Chun Hua, quickly dropping her in embarrassment.
During the meal, Qin Liufeng attempted to discern Chun Hua's background by observing her eating habits, particularly how she ate fish. He explained that people who favored fish tails often came from poor families, those who liked fish bellies might be the youngest in their family, and those who preferred fish gills were likely from wealthy backgrounds.
Although Chun Hua claimed to like all parts of the fish, Qin Liufeng was initially unable to draw a firm conclusion about her family background from her fish-eating preferences. She found the fish spicy, which allowed Qin Liufeng to deduce she was from Sangtian Village, based on the regional taste preferences of sweet for the south, salty for the north, spicy for the east, and sour for the west. She also complimented the delicate and sweet taste of the tofu.
After the banquet, Qin Liufeng and Xiao Bai discussed Chun Hua again. Qin Liufeng suggested she was either an expert in disguise or genuinely had amnesia, concluding her identity remained unknown. Xiao Bai then revealed that according to medical records, Chun Hua had "come back from the dead," leading him to suspect she might have consumed the immortality fruit, which was rumored to be missing after Medical Sage's death.
Concerned for her safety, especially given her memory loss and the dangers of the Wulin, Xiao Bai decided to keep her at Fengming Manor. Qin Liufeng teased him, suggesting he had developed "kindness" or "sympathy" for her. Xiao Bai affirmed that she would remain under his protection until her relatives were found. He also mentioned that his father’s serious illness made the search for the immortality fruit even more urgent.
Qin Liufeng reported that his investigations traced the earliest news of the immortality fruit to a mysterious figure known as Mr. Shi, whom no one in the martial arts circles had ever seen. Given that an unseen person was spreading news of an unseen object, Qin Liufeng expressed skepticism about the immortality fruit's very existence. Meanwhile, in Legend Valley, Fu Lou angrily confronted Shangguan Qiuyue, accusing him of sending spies from Thousand Moon Cave.
Shangguan Qiuyue casually dismissed the accusation, reminding Fu Lou that their sects were once "same door" a century ago and suggesting that "infighting" was Thousand Moon Cave's true tradition. Shangguan Qiuyue then stated his broader ambition to "govern martial arts circles," noting that Thousand Moon Cave's internal conflicts had allowed Fengming Manor to maintain its position as the orthodox martial arts leader.
When Fu Lou expressed disinterest in his grand plans, Shangguan Qiuyue subtly taunted him about his interest in the "girl who came back from the dead" because of the immortality fruit, noting her protection by Fengming Manor. Fu Lou threatened to lead his men to break into Thousand Moon Cave, but Shangguan Qiuyue scoffed, reminding him he was already on the cave's doorstep and still had to beg to meet him.
Later, Shangguan Qiuyue gave orders to sell the mental cultivation method of the Hengshan Sect in the market, declaring that Thousand Moon Cave had no use for such "inferior kung fu." He stated his intention to make the orthodox sects' "treasure worthless" and specifically instructed "Mr. Shi, the hardhearted man," to handle the sale. He expressed slight disappointment, however, that there were only three such books, implying he intended to acquire more.
That night, Chun Hua discovered a private bathing pool marked with a sign and, seeing no one around, decided to enter. Xiao Bai, hearing the splashing, mistakenly believed an intruder was present and entered the pool area, only to find Chun Hua bathing naked. He froze in shock until Chun Hua screamed, at which point he quickly turned and left. In his haste, he clearly saw a distinctive "flower bud" mark on her body.
As Lüxiu led Chun Hua away, Xiao Bai was flooded with a childhood memory of Hua Xiaolei being injured by a kite string in the exact same location as Chun Hua's mark, significantly intensifying his suspicion about Chun Hua's true identity. That night, Chun Hua developed a fever and became delirious from the cold caught in the private bathing pool.
When Shangguan Qiuyue unexpectedly appeared in her room, Chun Hua, still disoriented, clung to him and suggested she would recover if he allowed her to "take liberties with" him. Shangguan Qiuyue surprisingly agreed, prompting Chun Hua to immediately regain her senses and question if they were truly siblings. Shangguan Qiuyue confirmed their relationship, explaining that ever since their parents died, they had always "dined and slept together," and that she used to be much bolder.
Chun Hua, though still finding his behavior odd, accepted his explanation. Another day, Chun Hua watched Xiao Bai practice his sword forms, finding his precise movements quite handsome. She tried to playfully push him but was discovered. She then began to tease him, calling him her "darling" and saying it was "never mind" that he had peeked at her in the bathing pool because "anyway, you’re my darling."
Flustered by her remarks, and with the memory of the bathing incident and his renewed suspicion about her identity, Xiao Bai suggested they fly a kite, hoping to trigger her memories. As they flew the kite, Chun Hua commented on the string being held too tightly and the old, small spool. Xiao Bai asked if she remembered their first meeting, which she did, recalling that he had saved her.
He then reminded her that she had called him "darling" back then, a detail she claimed not to remember. Chun Hua explained that she might have called him "darling" because she felt a "mysterious sense of kinship" with him, as if they had "met each other before somewhere." When Xiao Bai asked about her earliest memories, she confessed she remembered absolutely nothing, including who she herself was.
Xiao Bai, deeply moved by her words and her vulnerability, and with his belief that she was Hua Xiaolei strengthening, promised to protect her as a valued guest of Fengming Manor. Later, Xiao Bai moved Chun Hua into Hua Xiaolei's room and presented her with various pieces of jewelry, including a new hairpin. Chun Hua was delighted to receive the hairpin, wearing it with excitement.
Shangguan Qiuyue then appeared, noticed her new accessory, and contemptuously dismissed it as "crudely made" before snatching it from her hair and throwing it away. An infuriated Chun Hua watched him. To pacify her, Shangguan Qiuyue removed his own hairpin and offered it to her, claiming it was "more beautiful." As his long hair cascaded down, a softer, more delicate appearance emerged, leaving Chun Hua momentarily captivated.
However, Chun Hua refused his precious hairpin, instead playfully demanding that he "bark like a dog" to make her happy, repeating the request until she was satisfied. Shangguan Qiuyue, as the Chief of Thousand Moon Cave, promised to fulfill her request.
Episode 4 Recap
Following their growing suspicions, Qin Liufeng and Xiao Bai discussed Chun Hua's true identity, which seemed suspicious due to her lack of martial arts and unknown background. Given her apparent return from the dead and amnesia, Xiao Bai had previously informed Qin Liufeng that she might have eaten an immortality fruit. Qin Liufeng suggested she might be Hua Xiaolei, a young lady who had never left her house and whom Xiao Bai had only met once as a child.
To confirm this, Qin Liufeng proposed they go to the Hua family to borrow one of Hua Xiaolei's portraits. Later, Xiao Bai came to Chun Hua's new room. He assured her she was an honored guest of Fengming Manor and pledged to protect her with all his might. Then he invited her to the annual poetry meeting, which Fengming Manor would host in half a month. Inside the room, Shangguan Qiuyue, who was secretly present, quickly covered Chun Hua's mouth.
Using the art of pseudo sound, he mimicked Chun Hua's voice and questioned Xiao Bai's extraordinary kindness, asking why he had changed her room and invited her to the poetry meeting. Outside, Xiao Bai, holding a kite, simply told her not to worry and to trust that he harbored no ill intentions toward her. After Xiao Bai left, Shangguan Qiuyue, with a serious expression, asked Chun Hua how she managed to gain such trust from Xiao Bai.
Chun Hua casually attributed it to "a little cleverness," claiming it was all to help him obtain the mental cultivation method. Chun Hua then expressed interest in Shangguan Qiuyue’s pseudo sound technique, and he revealed she had known it before losing her memory. He then taught her the skill again. Chun Hua immediately began practicing by imitating Xiao Bai calling her name, finding it amusing.
Shangguan Qiuyue, however, grew impatient and threatened to kill her if she didn't acquire the mental cultivation method within three days. Chun Hua jokingly said he wouldn't dare kill her, but Shangguan Qiuyue grabbed her by the neck, prompting her to quickly pledge her loyalty and promise to deliver the method. She internally noted her brother's moody and dangerous nature. Meanwhile, Valley Chief Fu was determined to obtain the immortality fruit to save his wife.
He was greatly displeased by Shangguan Qiuyue's frequent disruptions and secretly incited one of Shangguan Qiuyue’s Star Deputy Chiefs, Star Deputy Chief He, to betray and kill him. Valley Chief Fu advised Star Deputy Chief He that his path was clear: either be killed by star servants or kill Shangguan Qiuyue and become the Cave Chief.
Star Deputy Chief He, believing Valley Chief Fu’s words, approached Shangguan Qiuyue under the guise of presenting a valuable "sword painting," which supposedly contained the last move of the Su family's swordsmanship, but was in fact poisoned. Ye Yan, a loyal Star Deputy Chief, appeared to protect Shangguan Qiuyue. Shangguan Qiuyue calmly put down the poisoned scroll and seized the rebel’s neck, revealing that he had been feigning injury to lure out the traitor.
He told Star Deputy Chief He that his reliance on Valley Chief Fu for courage was pathetic, likening him to a slave. Star Deputy Chief He, realizing his defeat, begged for death. Shangguan Qiuyue then recalled Chun Hua's earlier words, "Life is given but once," which seemed to soften his resolve to kill. Instead, he decided to spare Star Deputy Chief He’s life.
He then instructed Ye Yan to ensure Star Deputy Chief He remained alive and to treat him kindly in the future. Terrified by Shangguan Qiuyue's threat, Chun Hua relentlessly tried to steal the mental cultivation method, but couldn't find it anywhere. She began to suspect it was hidden on Xiao Bai himself. To improve her chances, she frequently practiced by attempting to steal silver from Qin Liufeng, though she was consistently clumsy and failed.
One day, as Xiao Bai and Chun Hua were preparing to fly kites, Chun Hua again tried to steal Qin Liufeng's silver and was caught red-handed. Chun Hua, with a surprisingly eloquent excuse, claimed it was necessary for survival in the martial arts world and that Qin Liufeng, being a dandy full of bad intentions, was a more suitable target than Xiao Bai. Xiao Bai, feeling awkward, apologized to Qin Liufeng on Chun Hua's behalf, which Qin Liufeng found amusing.
Chun Hua had explored almost all of Fengming Manor, with only one tightly locked room remaining, which she believed might contain the mental cultivation method. As she was about to enter, she encountered Xiao Bai. He inquired about her presence there, and Chun Hua, faking a sprained ankle, used it as an excuse. After a moment of silence, Xiao Bai led her into the room, which turned out to be an ancestral hall established by his ancestor, Xiao Min.
Xiao Bai burned incense before a memorial tablet without words and began to explain its origin, detailing how Xiao Min, after destroying the Star Moon Sect and causing countless deaths, felt a heavy burden of sin and set up the tablet for future generations to worship. He also mentioned that his father later converted the space into a study. Chun Hua, however, was preoccupied with finding the mental cultivation method.
Xiao Bai noticed her searching and asked what she was looking for. Chun Hua quickly claimed she was looking for paper and pen to practice her writing. Xiao Bai retrieved them for her. After a moment of embarrassment, Chun Hua wrote "the world's most handsome man" on the paper and offered it to Xiao Bai. He seemed shy and hesitant to accept it.
Misinterpreting his modesty, Chun Hua assumed he found "most handsome" too ostentatious and promptly changed it to "second most handsome." Annoyed, Xiao Bai turned and left. Pleased with her writing, Chun Hua returned to her room to find Shangguan Qiuyue waiting. He noticed the inscription "the world's second most handsome" and asked why it wasn't the first. Seizing the opportunity, Chun Hua flattered him by saying he was undoubtedly the world's most handsome.
Shangguan Qiuyue, however, immediately saw through her lie, remarking that Xiao Bai must have refused it, leading her to demote him. Chun Hua reaffirmed her loyalty, explaining her efforts to steal the mental cultivation method and mentioning her visit to the study, where she saw a memorial tablet without words. Shangguan Qiuyue murmured that Xiao Bai seemed to treat Chun Hua well, which puzzled her. He then asked if Xiao Bai had told her the tablet's origin.
Chun Hua recounted Xiao Bai’s story about his ancestor exterminating the Star Moon Sect. Shangguan Qiuyue corrected her, revealing that the Star Moon Sect was actually the predecessor of Thousand Moon Cave, and their blood feud with Fengming Manor had begun a century ago. Chun Hua expressed confusion, noting this conflicted with his earlier statement that she was merely to steal the mental cultivation method for study.
Shangguan Qiuyue then surprised her by revealing she had previously expressed a desire to learn Fengming Swordsmanship, though Chun Hua quickly added it was only for chopping firewood. Shangguan Qiuyue then took her hand, playfully offering to teach her martial arts hand-by-hand. Chun Hua awkwardly pulled her hand away, feeling that her brother's behavior was abnormal and resolving to keep her distance. Shangguan Qiuyue urged her to obtain the mental cultivation method quickly, as the poetry meeting was approaching.
Chun Hua boldly declared she would "take the mental cultivation method and Xiao Bai as soon as possible." Shangguan Qiuyue's expression instantly changed, and he sternly instructed her to focus solely on getting the mental cultivation method and to leave Xiao Bai alone. Determined to obtain the mental cultivation method, Chun Hua tried to find Xiao Bai while he was bathing in the hot springs. She approached him, using the pretext of delivering new clothes.
However, Xiao Bai quickly immobilized her with acupuncture points, and her attempt failed. Meanwhile, Shangguan Qiuyue had gone ahead to an inn to prepare for the upcoming poetry meeting. He meticulously oversaw the arrangements, scolding Star Deputy Chief Ye for any oversight. Shangguan Qiuyue stressed the importance of his sister's safety, as this was her first time leaving Fengming Manor.
He had replaced all the inn's staff, leaving only a shrewd monthly servant as a runner and some star servants who lacked martial arts skills as waiters to avoid revealing their true identities. He kept the existing shopkeeper to avoid drawing undue attention. Ye Yan suggested that Shangguan Qiuyue did not need to personally oversee these preparations, but Shangguan Qiuyue explained he wished to enjoy the festivities and to better understand the martial arts world. He also noted that people outside were spreading rumors that Thousand Moon Cave was controlled by "ugly monsters," and they needed to find opportunities to dispel such an imputation.
Episode 5 Recap
Chun Hua is informed by an unseen voice that the mental cultivation method might be with Xiao Bai, urging her to obtain it quickly. She recalls searching Fengming Manor and the study without success, concluding the method must be on Xiao Bai. She is warned that if she fails to retrieve it within three days, she will be killed. Qin Liufeng and Xiao Bai journey to participate in a poetry meeting.
On their way, they come across vendors in the market openly selling copies of the Su family's mental cultivation method for a small sum. Intrigued, Qin Liufeng questions a vendor who claims to have acquired them from a mysterious Mr. Shi, a figure who is rarely seen. After purchasing all the available copies, Xiao Bai deduces that Mr. Shi must have connections to the evil sect, and Qin Liufeng resolves to investigate him, confident they will find clues.
The vendor also mentions that the original chief of the Su family committed suicide after the method spread throughout the martial arts circles, leading to the sect's demise. Upon arriving at the inn, a waiter informs Qin Liufeng and Xiao Bai that Miss Feng Caicai and Miss Leng Ning have also arrived. Hearing Leng Ning's name, Qin Liufeng immediately becomes flustered and rushes to change into more refined attire.
Leng Ning, the daughter of Swordsman Leng Ying, is admired by Qin Liufeng, though she prefers to dress in men's clothes and aspires to be a formidable figure in the Wulin. While she secretly harbors feelings for Qin Liufeng, his overtly flirtatious nature often annoys her. Feng Caicai, the daughter of Swordsman Feng Qianwei, is also present.
She is highly praised for her beauty, intelligence, and martial prowess, and is seen as an ideal match for Xiao Bai, with whom she shares a long-standing acquaintance. Chun Hua enthusiastically approaches Leng Ning and Feng Caicai, but in her excitement, she mistakes Feng Caicai for Leng Ning and makes an awkward comment about Leng Ning's male attire.
Although she quickly corrects herself, praising Leng Ning's heroic appearance, Leng Ning, noticing Qin Liufeng's familiarity with Chun Hua, makes a subtle remark about his constant companionship before excusing herself, implying her displeasure. Later, during dinner, Feng Caicai presents Xiao Bai with a meticulously hand-stitched gown, advising him to wear more somber colors for his future responsibilities. Chun Hua, observing Feng Caicai's interest in Xiao Bai, seizes the opportunity.
She expresses exaggerated admiration for Leng Ning's cool male attire and asks Feng Caicai to give her the gown meant for Xiao Bai. Feng Caicai politely refuses, offering to make a new one for Chun Hua instead. Chun Hua, while feigning gratitude, takes the gown, declaring that from now on, she will be responsible for all of Xiao Bai's clothes, much to Feng Caicai's quiet irritation.
Qin Liufeng then openly invites Chun Hua to reside at Qin's Mansion, describing its "beautiful girls" in an obvious attempt to make Leng Ning jealous. Chun Hua, seeing through his scheme, cleverly turns the situation back on him. She states that as a honored guest of Fengming Manor, she requires Xiao Bai's consent to leave. When Qin Liufeng asks Xiao Bai, Xiao Bai avoids directly answering, simply asking Qin Liufeng not to "embarrass" him.
Qin Liufeng retorts that letting Chun Hua leave would be an embarrassment to Xiao Bai. Seeing Xiao Bai in a difficult position, Chun Hua intervenes, reminding everyone that Xiao Bai saved her life and she cannot leave him before repaying his kindness. Xiao Bai is visibly pleased by her declaration. Feng Caicai's expression is complex as she observes Xiao Bai and Chun Hua's interaction.
Meanwhile, Fu Lou learns of the failed assassination attempt on Shangguan Qiuyue, noting that his subordinate, Star Deputy Chief He, had perished after entering Thousand Moon Cave. He reiterates that the attempt was a warning to Shangguan Qiuyue to stay away from Legend Valley, and orders his subordinates to intensify their search for the immortality fruit, which has been missing since the Medical Sage's death. He instructs them to kill anyone who obstructs their efforts.
It is revealed that Fu Lou's relentless pursuit of the immortality fruit is driven by his desire to save his wife. Chun Hua attempts to bribe a waiter to secure a room adjacent to Xiao Bai's. Unbeknownst to her, Shangguan Qiuyue has already replaced the inn's staff. The imposter waiter leads Chun Hua to a room Shangguan Qiuyue has specially prepared for her.
Chun Hua is initially surprised to find Shangguan Qiuyue there but quickly realizes his trickery and scolds him for harming innocent people. Shangguan Qiuyue, clearly displeased, confirms she tried to bribe the waiter to share a room with Xiao Bai. Chun Hua admits her true intention was to find an opportunity to steal the mental cultivation method from Xiao Bai, having previously failed to locate it within Fengming Manor. Shangguan Qiuyue grants her an extended deadline to accomplish her mission.
Later that night, Chun Hua opens her window to enjoy the moonlight, hoping to share a romantic moment with Xiao Bai, who also opens his window. However, Feng Caicai opens her window, intruding on the moment and engaging Xiao Bai in conversation, reminiscing about their childhood martial arts training under the moon. Frustrated by the interruption and her inability to see Xiao Bai, Chun Hua angrily closes her window.
Still annoyed by their continued chatter, Chun Hua loudly feigns being disturbed by Feng Caicai's "loud voice." Xiao Bai, believing her, apologizes for the disturbance and closes his own window, advising Chun Hua to rest early. During her bath, Chun Hua fantasizes about Xiao Bai appearing, expecting him to be flustered and flee. Instead, Shangguan Qiuyue appears, calmly observing her from the doorway. Chun Hua screams in surprise, tumbling back into the tub.
Shangguan Qiuyue laughs, comments on her carelessness, and then brazenly reminds her that he has seen her naked since childhood, adding that she is not a stranger. He then directly accuses her of attempting a "honey trap." Hearing Chun Hua's scream, Xiao Bai comes to check on her. Shangguan Qiuyue, annoyed by Xiao Bai's concern, pointedly warns Chun Hua not to use such "disgraceful" tactics. Chun Hua, though furious, remains silent.
Believing Shangguan Qiuyue is there for the upcoming poetry meeting, Chun Hua advises him to be cautious, as the "orthodox sects" are numerous. Shangguan Qiuyue appears pleased by her concern, simply telling her to take care of herself. The poetry meeting commences with Fu Lou announcing "justice" as the theme, in light of the stolen mental cultivation methods. Qin Liufeng recites a classic line of poetry but bafflingly claims unfamiliarity with its author, Li Qingzhao.
Chun Hua, secretly delighted by his apparent ignorance, anticipates winning the competition. Shangguan Qiuyue then engages in a tense, veiled exchange with Fu Lou, hinting at their ongoing conflict, mentioning hidden poisons and Moon Servants, and the pursuit of immortality. Following this, Feng Caicai recites a poem about sacrificing family for the greater good. Xiao Bai then recites the same lines, also advocating for self-sacrifice for the state.
Leng Ning follows with Wen Tianxiang's "Crossing Lonely Sea," a poem about unwavering loyalty even unto death. Chun Hua, clearly feeling left out and jealous, makes pointed remarks about Leng Ning's "cold and heartless" nature and Xiao Bai's perceived indifference to those around him, contrasting his demeanor with Leng Ning's uprightness and implying their unsuitability.
Qin Liufeng then takes the stage, acknowledging Chun Hua, and recites his own poem, which he interprets as linking the concept of "justice" to "profound friendship and strong righteousness." Meanwhile, hushed comments about Xiao Bai and Feng Caicai being a "perfect match," endowed with both beauty and talent and equal in social status, reach Chun Hua, who explodes in frustration, railing against the "right way," "sacrificing for righteousness," and the restrictive "rules of martial arts circles."
Qin Liufeng agrees, lamenting how one can be "unequivocal" with so many rules, and proposes breaking the rules of the poetry meeting. The meeting concludes with Fu Lou and Shangguan Qiuyue resuming their subtle threats, their conversation revolving around the immortality fruit and Fu Lou's motivation to save his wife.
Episode 6 Recap
At the poetry meeting, Feng Caicai, Leng Ning, and others were present, with the day's theme being "righteousness." Fu Lou, the chief of Legend Valley, also attended. He appeared concerned with obtaining an immortality fruit and lamented that his sect had become as weak as the orthodox ones. The discussion turned to the dilemma of choosing between love and righteousness. Feng Caicai asserted that one should choose righteousness, even if it meant becoming heartless for the common people.
This prompted Chunhua, who was already frustrated and jealous that Xiao Bai sided with Feng Caicai, to declare she would also recite a poem. Chunhua first recited "The Peasant's Lot," which was well-received. However, she then continued with "Goose, Goose, Goose," a poem Qin Liufeng admitted he composed at age seven.
Embarrassed, Chunhua attempted other poems, but in a moment of panic, she blurted out, "When will the endless cycle of the spring flower and the autumn moon come to an end? How much remembrance of the things past does a heart know?" At the mention of "qiu yue" (autumn moon), members of the orthodox sects reacted with hostility, drawing their swords.
Fu Lou, too, reacted intensely to the phrase, implying it was a sad poem that reminded him of someone from his past. Realizing the word "qiu yue" was a severe taboo, Chunhua feigned a faint. Qin Liufeng quickly stepped forward, claiming knowledge of acupuncture and offering to revive her with a few needles. Hearing this, Chunhua immediately woke up, complaining of a headache and wanting to return to bed.
Xiao Bai, believing she was merely drunk and had caught a chill, suggested Feng Caicai escort her back to the inn. However, Chunhua insisted she could manage on her own and quickly disappeared. The orthodox members, suspicious of Chunhua's outburst and the mention of the taboo word, questioned if she was an evil sect enchantress. Xiao Bai took responsibility, explaining he had forgotten to inform Chunhua of such taboos and that her actions were not intentional.
He then defiantly repeated the word "qiu yue," challenging the orthodox sects' fear and urging them to focus on eliminating the evil sect rather than being fixated on a name. Qin Liufeng supported him, suggesting they enjoy music to improve the atmosphere, which diffused the tension.
Meanwhile, in a separate development, after Qiu Yue (Chunhua's brother, also known as Fu Lou) had confronted someone and departed, Feng Caicai's father, Chief Feng of Xisha Sect, attempted to gather information from Fu Lou but was instead apprehended by him. Fu Lou revealed his knowledge that Chief Feng had killed the Medical Sage for the immortality fruit.
Using this as leverage, Fu Lou blackmailed Chief Feng, demanding he capture a girl who "came back from the dead" and deliver her to him, threatening to expose him to the martial arts world if he refused. Later, as Chunhua was pleased with her quick thinking, her brother, Qiu Yue, appeared. He found her seemingly drunk and attempted to feed her medicine.
Chunhua stubbornly kept her mouth shut, but when Qiu Yue implied he would administer the medicine "his own way" by mouth, she quickly snatched the pills and took them. Chunhua then questioned Qiu Yue about Hua Xiaolei's death. Qiu Yue confirmed that Hua Xiaolei, Xiao Bai's fiancée, had died in a fire and her body was never found.
He then shockingly revealed that Chunhua herself was the one who set the fire at the Xiao family, reminding her that she had infiltrated Fengming Manor to steal mental cultivation methods for him. Chunhua was visibly shaken, struggling to believe his words. Meanwhile, Qin Liufeng delivered a portrait of Hua Xiaolei to Xiao Bai. Qin Liufeng explained that the Hua family maintained Hua Xiaolei was dead but remained silent about the cause. He suggested the portrait might offer new insights.
Xiao Bai seemed apprehensive, hesitating to open it. After Qin Liufeng urged him and then left, Xiao Bai finally unrolled the portrait and discovered that Chunhua was indeed Hua Xiaolei, a revelation that brought him immense joy. Soon after, Feng Caicai visited Chunhua, inviting her for tea. Chunhua, still feeling unwell, wanted to decline, but Qiu Yue, unseen, mimicked Chunhua's voice, inviting Feng Caicai to enter the room.
Panicked, Chunhua then mimicked Xiao Bai's voice, claiming they had important matters to discuss, prompting Feng Caicai to leave. On her way back, Feng Caicai encountered the real Xiao Bai, who was coming to see Chunhua about the portrait. Confused, Feng Caicai realized the voices she heard earlier must have been a "disguised voice" technique. Concerned, Xiao Bai rushed to Chunhua's room and was relieved to find her seemingly drunk at the table.
Feng Caicai voiced her suspicions, but Xiao Bai dismissed them, suggesting she was tired or overly nervous, and reiterated that he had private matters to discuss with Chunhua, urging Feng Caicai to rest. Seeing that Xiao Bai was not convinced, Feng Caicai reluctantly left, but not before subtly mentioning the clothes she had personally made for him. Xiao Bai roused Chunhua, who playfully complained of dizziness and nausea, asking him to check for a fever.
Xiao Bai offered to get sobering soup, but Chunhua preferred his company. Xiao Bai mentioned he had something important to discuss but would wait until she was fully sober. Chunhua then asked Xiao Bai to accompany her for a walk. As they strolled, Chunhua apologized for her actions at the poetry meeting, admitting she couldn't remember other poems and had been at a loss for words.
Xiao Bai reassured her, stating she had done nothing wrong and that the true fault lay with the evil sect for creating such disquiet in the martial arts circles. He then gently probed her memory, asking if she recalled her past. Chunhua, secretly agonizing over her identity as Qiu Yue's sister and her involvement in the Xiao family fire, claimed she remembered nothing prior to waking up. Xiao Bai expressed his desire to know everything about her.
Chunhua, recalling how Xiao Bai was the first person she saw upon waking, his dedication to martial arts, his consistent rescue whenever she was in danger, and even her accidental entry into his private bathing pool, recounted these memories of him. Xiao Bai was visibly pleased by her sincerity and affection, and they continued their walk towards the inn.
Separately, Leng Ning and Qin Liufeng were engaged in a game of chess, but Qin Liufeng was distracted by thoughts of Chunhua. Leng Ning grew impatient, sensing his distraction was related to Chunhua. Qin Liufeng admitted he was pondering something incredible. Leng Ning, inferring his thoughts, acknowledged Chunhua's newfound notoriety after the poetry meeting but subtly criticized her informality, attributing it to her not being a martial arts practitioner. Qin Liufeng defended Chunhua, stating her actions were understandable.
Leng Ning retorted sharply, accusing him of protecting her and suggesting he discuss his "strange thing" directly with Chunhua. Annoyed, Leng Ning then abruptly left. Back at the inn, Feng Caicai intercepted Xiao Bai and Chunhua. She immediately steered the conversation to "martial arts affairs," suggesting Chunhua would not be interested and should rest, as she had just sobered up. Chunhua reluctantly complied and left. Feng Caicai again pressed Xiao Bai about the "disguised voice" incident.
Xiao Bai firmly stated that the orthodox sects acted openly and honorably, never blindly doubting anyone, especially a "weak girl without relatives" like Chunhua, whom he believed to be pure-hearted and merely reckless, not malicious. When Feng Caicai questioned how to explain the disguised voice heard outside the door when only Chunhua was inside, Xiao Bai maintained he had the situation under control but found it inconvenient to elaborate at that moment, dismissing Feng Caicai's warning about being misled.
He then offered to walk her back to her room, where she again reminded him about the custom-made clothes she had given him. Later, Chunhua saw Qin Liufeng practicing martial arts and playfully teased him about his skills. Qin Liufeng then directly asked Chunhua if she was hiding her true identity due to difficulties. Chunhua, her mind racing with whether he meant her being Qiu Yue's sister or setting the fire, feigned amnesia and denied hiding anything.
Qin Liufeng warned her that if Xiao Bai discovered her deceptions, it could create a rift between them, leaving Xiao Bai vulnerable to others. Before Chunhua could fully respond, Leng Ning passed by, noticed their intimate conversation, and coldly reminded Chunhua to pack her belongings as they were scheduled to return that afternoon before angrily departing. Feng Caicai then reported her suspicions about Chunhua's "disguised voice" to her father, Chief Feng.
Chief Feng confirmed that such a technique was unique to the evil sect and that Chunhua's use of it made her untrustworthy. Despite Feng Caicai's frustration about not having enough evidence to convince Xiao Bai, her father asserted that with the Alliance Leader gravely ill, they could not remain idle. He instructed Feng Caicai to bring Chunhua to a secluded spot in the woods on the outskirts of the city, where they could interrogate her and obtain more detailed evidence.
Chunhua, meanwhile, was happily anticipating returning to Fengming Manor and spending time alone with Xiao Bai, unaware of the trap awaiting her. Feng Caicai then confronted Chunhua, telling her that she wouldn't be returning to the inn that day, as she had arranged for them to go out together with the young master. This was a ruse, as Feng Caicai then used acupuncture to seize Chunhua, abducting her to their designated location.
Episode 7 Recap
Feng Caicai escorted Chunhua to her father, Chief Feng, who then unexpectedly ordered Chunhua to be taken away. Feng Caicai, although bewildered, was powerless to intervene. As Chief Feng's men led Chunhua away, Chunhua questioned one of Chief Feng's subordinates about their intentions. The subordinate revealed that Chief Feng had promised Chunhua to him as a mistress.
Chunhua immediately invoked the name of Shangguan Qiuyue, threatening that her brother would kill their entire "rabble" and even gouge out their eyes if he found out. However, her threats failed to intimidate the subordinate. Chief Feng then announced to his subordinates that he was there to meet Fu Lou, the Chief of the evil sect Legend Valley, and that the reason was not for them to know.
Chief Feng brought Chunhua to Fu Lou in his domain, declaring he had fulfilled his part of their agreement and expected Fu Lou to uphold his. Fu Lou, however, expressed admiration for Chief Feng's efficiency and implied he would not easily release him, suggesting he might require Chief Feng's assistance in the future.
When Fu Lou appeared to renege on their deal regarding Chunhua, Chief Feng, despite having brought her to him, threatened to kill her himself rather than hand her over if Fu Lou did not keep his promise. A fight then broke out between Chief Feng's faction and Fu Lou's forces. Overwhelmed, Chief Feng took the opportunity to escape, leaving Chunhua with the subordinate who was guarding her.
At this point, the subordinate shed his disguise, revealing himself to be Shangguan Qiuyue. Fu Lou then stated he had known Shangguan Qiuyue's identity all along. Chunhua, overjoyed and believing herself rescued, called out "Brother!" Fu Lou expressed surprise that Shangguan Qiuyue had a sister. To Chunhua's dismay, Shangguan Qiuyue turned and left her behind. As Fu Lou escorted Chunhua back towards the valley, they encountered Feng Caicai, who had come in search of Chunhua.
Fu Lou questioned Feng Caicai's identity and reason for following them. Chunhua subtly urged Feng Caicai to escape, but Feng Caicai disregarded the warning, revealing herself as Feng Caicai of the Xisha Sect, and engaged Fu Lou in combat. Overwhelmed, Feng Caicai was quickly defeated and taken captive alongside Chunhua, both subsequently brought into the valley. Meanwhile, Qin Liufeng expressed surprise that Chunhua and Feng Caicai had gone out together, given their usual animosity.
Xiao Bai questioned Qin Liufeng's detailed knowledge of Chunhua, prompting Qin Liufeng to quickly clarify that Xiao Bai undoubtedly knew her best, even teasingly suggesting he knew intimate details like a birthmark on her chest, which Xiao Bai quickly silenced, appearing in a great mood and smiling. Qin Liufeng then reminded Xiao Bai of Feng Caicai’s lingering suspicions about the "disguised voice" incident, where she had heard a voice but only found Chunhua present.
Xiao Bai, worried about his "future wife," instructed Qin Liufeng to devise countermeasures, to which Qin Liufeng teasingly suggested it was because he was worried about his future wife. They also discussed their failed attempt to track Shangguan Qiuyue, whose flying skills surpassed theirs. Chunhua and Feng Caicai were imprisoned in the valley. They attempted to sneak away when Fu Lou was preoccupied, but their escape was foiled.
Fu Lou brutally attacked them, leaving Feng Caicai severely injured and near death, and fracturing Chunhua's arm. Fu Lou then interrogated Chunhua about her relationship with Xiao Bai, noting that she was Shangguan Qiuyue's sister and Xiao Bai's strange relative who had been given an immortal fruit by the Medical Saint. He choked her until she struggled for breath. Chunhua claimed she was Xiao Bai's future wife, an agreement made after he saved her life.
This admission caused Fu Lou to reflect on his own wife, prompting a moment of mercy, and he spared Chunhua's life. However, he then declared his intention to kill Feng Caicai. Chunhua, desperate, offered her own life in exchange for Feng Caicai's. At that moment, a servant arrived to inform Fu Lou that his wife, Lady You Si, wished to see him. Fu Lou, visibly flustered, departed immediately, temporarily saving Chunhua and Feng Caicai.
Distraught and on the verge of tears in the dungeon, Chunhua, lamenting her saintly nature for helping Feng Caicai despite her being a love rival, was suddenly pulled to her feet by Shangguan Qiuyue. She tearfully demanded to know why he had abandoned her. Shangguan Qiuyue explained that by calling him "Brother" in front of Fu Lou, she had exposed a potential weakness that Fu Lou could exploit against him, thereby endangering her. Chunhua then showed him her injured arm.
Shangguan Qiuyue, embracing her, quickly diagnosed a dislocated joint and expertly reset it. As he did so, he pulled her close and kissed her, explaining that he feared she might cry out and attract attention if he hadn't, and that his hands were busy. He then asked her in a serious tone if Xiao Bai had ever been so intimate with her.
Chunhua asked why he wouldn't take her with him, but he explained that the valley's defenses were too tight for him to escort anyone out directly. Before leaving, Shangguan Qiuyue instructed Chunhua to find Fu Lou's wife, Lady You Si, in the Sea of Flowers, assuring her that Lady You Si could facilitate their escape. Following Shangguan Qiuyue's directions, Chunhua found Lady You Si, who resided in a picturesque area of the valley.
Chunhua exclaimed at the beauty of the place, then, seeing Lady You Si's beauty and recalling rumors that Fu Lou had forcefully married his master's wife, confirmed her identity as the "First Beauty." When a subordinate tried to remove Chunhua for her "bad manners," Lady You Si intervened.
Chunhua then tearfully told Lady You Si that Fu Lou intended to kill her and her friend, and accused him of killing his master to marry her and trapping her in the valley. Lady You Si, however, defended her husband, claiming he would never kill anyone and that he merely invited guests to talk. Chunhua pressed on, describing Feng Caicai’s dire condition in the dungeon.
Ultimately, Lady You Si, appearing compassionate, ordered that both Chunhua and Feng Caicai be released and provided a carriage for their departure. Chunhua even attempted to persuade Lady You Si to leave the valley with them, suggesting she could explore the beautiful world outside, but Lady You Si politely declined, citing a promise to her husband not to leave.
As Lady You Si accompanied them to the carriage, Fu Lou appeared, expressing concern that his wife was out in the cold. Lady You Si explained she was seeing off guests. Fu Lou, noting the horse was "indocile" as an excuse, offered to personally escort them. Chunhua, eager to avoid further entanglement and thinking that Fu Lou's escort would doom them, quickly refused.
As Chunhua drove the carriage away, it suddenly broke down halfway, leaving her helpless and close to tears once more, with Feng Caicai still unconscious. Shangguan Qiuyue reappeared. Chunhua pleaded with him to save Feng Caicai. Shangguan Qiuyue was initially dismissive, reminding Chunhua that Feng Caicai had previously plotted against her and adding that Feng Caicai was already near death from Fu Lou’s palm strike, suggesting Chunhua should abandon her. Chunhua, however, insisted she must save her.
Grabbing his arm, she commented on how cold his skin felt. Shangguan Qiuyue explained that he grew up in ice, whereas Chunhua was meticulously cared for and protected. When Chunhua asked about their mother, Shangguan Qiuyue revealed that she had been killed by people from Fengming Manor and had implored them to avenge her before she died. He also implied this was why he sought the Xiao family's martial arts. Chunhua was stunned by this revelation.
Before departing, Shangguan Qiuyue gave Chunhua a pill, promising it would revive Feng Caicai within the time it takes an incense stick to burn. True to his word, after Feng Caicai ingested the pill, she recovered significantly. Chunhua then detailed their escape from Legend Valley to Feng Caicai, who apologized for her previous role in kidnapping Chunhua.
Chunhua, calling herself "pretty and kind-hearted," graciously accepted the apology and urged Feng Caicai to keep their ordeal from Xiao Bai to avoid causing him worry. However, Feng Caicai still expressed doubt about Chunhua's true identity and connections. Chunhua countered by highlighting the suspicious relationship between Feng Caicai's father and Fu Lou, questioning why he had initially tried to kill her and then handed her over to Fu Lou.
Feng Caicai promised to confront her father about his actions, asserting that she would not show favoritism if he was indeed colluding with Legend Valley, but insisted on needing concrete evidence, subtly accusing Chunhua of trying to sow discord between her and Xiao Bai. Later, upon their safe return, Qin Liufeng welcomed them. Xiao Bai inquired about their whereabouts.
Chunhua explained that they had a "slight misunderstanding" and decided to go for a walk to clear the air, getting so engrossed in conversation that they lost track of time. She added that the misunderstanding was now resolved. Feng Caicai, despite the resolution, still hinted at doubts regarding Chunhua's identity.
Qin Liufeng stepped in to defend Chunhua, suggesting that the "disguised voice" incident might have been a playful prank or a mishearing on Feng Caicai's part, concluding that the misunderstanding was happily resolved and apologizing to Xiao Bai for causing him worry. Xiao Bai, appearing relieved, simply stated that any misunderstanding should always be clarified.
Episode 8 Recap
Xiao Bai finds himself deeply troubled by Chunhua's true identity and his pre-existing engagement with the Hua family. Qin Liufeng, acting as his trusted adviser, proposes a strategy: they should visit the Hua family under the guise of attending the famous Festive Lantern Show in Yetan City, which coincides with the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival on Lunar August 15. Qin Liufeng suggests it would be a delightful occasion to admire the full moon with accompanying ladies.
While Xiao Bai is initially concerned that this might alert the Hua family, Qin Liufeng assures him that the cover is sufficient. They decide that Chunhua will accompany them, along with Feng Caicai, who had previously raised suspicions about Chunhua's connection to the pseudo-voice technique. Qin Liufeng emphasizes the importance of a convincing act, even joking about the impropriety of a Junior Chief attending such an event without a lady's company.
Upon arriving in Yetan City, they discover that due to the festival crowds, the inn only has two rooms available. While both Qin Liufeng and Chunhua secretly hope to share a room with their respective romantic interests, the rooms are ultimately allocated one for the men and one for the women. Chunhua attempts to secure an additional room, and Qin Liufeng offers to pay double on her behalf, but to no avail.
They agree to make do for the night, with the possibility of more rooms opening up later. Qin Liufeng laments their situation, forced to focus on their mission rather than enjoying the festive atmosphere with ladies, and jokingly bemoans his own loneliness. Xiao Bai thanks him for his unwavering support. Qin Liufeng then questions why Xiao Bai has not brought Chunhua to the Hua family.
Xiao Bai explains that the Hua family's past behavior was suspicious, and there are many unresolved doubts about Chunhua's identity. He believes it is crucial to investigate thoroughly and ensure her safety before allowing a potential reunion with the Hua family. Unwilling to remain at the inn, Chunhua invents an excuse to buy mooncakes and slips out. While wandering, she encounters a young girl crying, who claims her brother, dressed in white, stole her bamboo copter.
Chunhua, empathizing with the child, immediately offers to help retrieve the toy. She follows the girl and is astonished to find that the "brother" is none other than Shangguan Qiuyue. Chunhua immediately chastises him for being "boring" and for trifling with a child's toy, remarking that she thought she was his only sister.
Shangguan Qiuyue playfully retorts that she must be "jealous" and then spins a tale, claiming the girl is an orphan whose parents Chunhua cruelly killed, and he took her in to help Chunhua atone. This shocking revelation horrifies Chunhua until the girl's actual parents arrive, confirming Shangguan Qiuyue's trick. Realizing she has been duped, Chunhua playfully scolds him and starts hitting him. Shangguan Qiuyue laughs and then pulls her along to enjoy the Festive Lantern Show.
As they admire the Kongming lanterns, Chunhua releases one, secretly wishing to give up immortality for love, hoping to be together soon with her destined love, and for all obstacles to disappear. Shangguan Qiuyue, finding such rituals amusing, asks her to reveal her wish, promising to make it come true. However, Chunhua firmly refuses, believing that telling a wish will prevent it from coming true and would only bring her suffering.
Shangguan Qiuyue then gazes at a mooncake stall, prompting Chunhua to ask if he has never tasted them. He denies it, but Chunhua insists he has not experienced flower-flavored mooncakes. Suddenly, Shangguan Qiuyue declares he wants them immediately and takes Chunhua to Thousand Moon Cave. Chunhua is surprised by the cave's unexpected beauty, filled with lotus flowers. Playfully, she asks if he was born on Mid-Autumn Day, remarking that he is as fair as the moon.
As they begin making mooncakes, Shangguan Qiuyue teases Chunhua for her clumsiness but then helps her, appearing genuinely amused and happy. He even has his subordinate, Ye Yan, taste one. After Ye Yan confirms it's delicious, Shangguan Qiuyue playfully teases Chunhua about her mooncake, asking if he should "gouge out her eyes or kill her directly" if she tastes it, prompting Chunhua to remind him to enjoy the festive spirit without such "bloody things."
Shangguan Qiuyue then instructs Ye Yan to remember the taste and prepare more for Chunhua in the future. Meanwhile, that night, Xiao Bai and Qin Liufeng make their way to the Hua family mansion. Standing at the entrance, Xiao Bai is overcome by childhood memories, recalling his "Uncle Hua" and the arranged marriage with Hua Xiaolei. Qin Liufeng gently reminds him that they are on the cusp of uncovering the truth. Once inside, they formally greet Master Hua.
Xiao Bai apologizes for their late-night intrusion and infrequent visits, inquiring about Master Hua's well-being. Master Hua muses on Xiao Bai's former status as a potential son-in-law, now reduced to a nephew. Master Hua then inquires about the health of Xiao Bai's father. Xiao Bai informs him that his father is well, but was poisoned by the evil sect years ago. Xiao Bai gravely informs Master Hua that his daughter, Hua Xiaolei, is alive, though she has lost her memory.
He reveals that she is currently with him in Yetan City but it is not yet suitable for them to meet. Xiao Bai expresses his deep concern that Hua Xiaolei might have been manipulated or "employed by the evil sect," and he seeks confirmation from Master Hua regarding any past connections she might have had. Master Hua reacts with explosive anger, vehemently denying any such connection.
He furiously accuses Xiao Bai of slandering his daughter's reputation after having already caused her presumed death, asserting his daughter's purity. He then demands to know who was responsible for the fire at Fengming Manor that day. When Xiao Bai admits the truth has "not been figured out," Master Hua declares that they are there to "declare them guilty" and orders his butler to "see them out" immediately.
Outside the Hua mansion, Qin Liufeng expresses his bewilderment at Master Hua's extreme reaction, noting that he seemed more enraged by the mention of the evil sect and a perceived assault on his daughter's reputation than by the news that his daughter was alive. Xiao Bai admits his recklessness in bringing up such a sensitive topic. Qin Liufeng points out that collaboration with the evil sect is indeed an unforgivable crime.
Xiao Bai states that regardless of the complexities, Hua Xiaolei has the right to know the truth about her situation. They agree to return and formulate a more careful plan. When Xiao Bai and Qin Liufeng return to the inn, they find Feng Caicai and Leng Ning waiting. Leng Ning, annoyed by Qin Liufeng's apparent lack of concern for her, is irked when he offers her a "small gift" of wild flowers and only asks about Chunhua.
Xiao Bai, however, is immediately concerned upon learning Chunhua left six hours ago to buy mooncakes and has not returned. He points out that Yetan City has dangerous elements and Chunhua cannot fight, so he resolves to search for her immediately. Qin Liufeng, Leng Ning, and Feng Caicai all offer to join the search, and they are seen canvassing the streets, asking passersby if they have seen Chunhua. Chunhua and Shangguan Qiuyue spend time together, admiring the moon.
Chunhua reflects on Shangguan Qiuyue's loneliness, noting that their parents died so long ago he cannot even recall their faces. Feeling a surge of pity, even though she knows her destiny is with Xiao Bai, she solemnly promises to be his "only family member" and dedicate more time to him in the future. Shangguan Qiuyue is visibly moved by her sincerity.
Soon, Chunhua expresses her need to return, explaining that Xiao Bai will be worried about her, as he perceives her as a "weak girl" who needs his protection. Shangguan Qiuyue, though displeased by her departure, agrees to let her go on the condition that she obtains the mental cultivation method within ten days. Chunhua, eager to leave, reluctantly agrees, promising to return and spend more time with him after she completes the task. Shangguan Qiuyue then gives her a "treasure."
Episode 9 Recap
On the Mid-Autumn Festival, Shangguan Qiuyue gifted Chunhua an Icy Silkworm Bead, explaining that the two beads could call each other and were linked in life and death. He told her that if she ever needed him, or simply wished to see him, she could recite a spell to the bead: "When will Chunhua and Qiuyue have an ending?"
Chunhua found the spell awkward but Shangguan Qiuyue insisted, saying the "Icy Silkworm babies" had already heard it and instructed her to "bask the Icy Silkworm Bead in the moon every day" to absorb its essence. As midnight approached, Chunhua realized she needed to return, fearing Xiao Bai would worry. Shangguan Qiuyue tried to persuade her to stay, asking if Xiao Bai was more important than him, and reminded her to be obedient as he was always watching her.
Back at the inn, Xiao Bai anxiously waited for Chunhua, refusing to sleep. Even as the waiter prepared to close for the night, Xiao Bai pleaded for more time, determined to wait alone. Chunhua eventually returned, concocting an elaborate story about getting lost while buying mooncakes and enjoying lanterns, then eating all the mooncakes due to hunger before making new ones for him.
Xiao Bai, relieved by her safe return, gently warned her about the dangers of the martial arts world and cautioned her against acting rashly since she lacked martial arts skills. He then asked her to follow him, as he had something important to show her. Xiao Bai revealed a portrait, confirming to Chunhua that the person depicted was Hua Xiaolei, Master Hua's daughter, and that she was, in fact, Hua Xiaolei.
Chunhua was bewildered, questioning whether she was Hua Xiaolei or Shangguan Qiuyue's sister, and how she could be Xiao Bai's fiancée if Hua Xiaolei was supposedly dead. Xiao Bai explained that he had already confirmed this with Master Hua, who was depressed and would be greatly comforted by her return. He intended to take her to meet her father the following day. When Chunhua pressed for concrete proof, Xiao Bai hesitantly uttered "scar," before quickly excusing himself to his room.
Chunhua was left pondering when Xiao Bai could have seen such a scar, recalling an incident involving him and a bath. The thought that she might truly be Xiao Bai's destined person filled her with a secret delight. However, this clashed with Shangguan Qiuyue's earlier claim that the mark on her chest was a flower-bud-shaped pink birthmark, which he said was the origin of her name Chunhua, leaving her confused about who was telling the truth.
Meanwhile, Star Deputy Chief Ye informed Shangguan Qiuyue that the Hua family had discovered Hua Xiaolei was alive and that Hua Que was on his way to find her. Shangguan Qiuyue corrected him, stating that "Hua Xiaolei" was now "Little Chunhua" and, having lost her memory, he would not treat her as Hua Xiaolei.
Star Deputy Chief Ye expressed concern that Shangguan Qiuyue might become emotionally entangled in this "brother and sister game," implicitly warning him by mentioning how Fu Lou's weakness, You Si, had left him vulnerable and overstretched while trying to protect her and find the immortality fruit. Shangguan Qiuyue scoffed at the comparison, asserting that his interactions were merely a form of "recreation," relaxing and burden-free, offering strategic gains without emotional indulgence.
He declared he was not like Fu Lou, who would fall prey to personal affections, and then instructed Ye Xingzhu to check on Hua Que. Upon learning Hua Xiaolei was alive, Master Hua immediately summoned his son, Hua Que, instructing him to prevent her return to the Hua family, deeming her a disgrace due to her alleged "affair" with Shangguan Qiuyue.
Hua Que confronted Chunhua at her residence, ordering her to stay away from the Hua family and never return, claiming her actions had shamed them. Chunhua was profoundly shocked, realizing that in Shangguan Qiuyue's eyes, she might have been a joke. She anxiously asked if Xiao Bai knew of this supposed affair, feeling a wave of relief when Hua Que implied he did not.
Chunhua vehemently refused to comply, insisting she was Chunhua, had amnesia, and would not abandon Xiao Bai. Frustrated, Hua Que disowned her and threatened her before departing. Shortly after, Hua Que attempted to set Chunhua's residence ablaze to protect the family's reputation. However, Star Deputy Chief Ye, who was investigating, intervened, killing Hua Que with a concealed weapon to save Chunhua.
Shangguan Qiuyue appeared, scolding Star Deputy Chief Ye for killing Hua Que and asking if he could compensate Chunhua for losing her brother. He then declared his intention to step into the role of Chunhua's brother. Capitalizing on Hua Que's death, Shangguan Qiuyue presented himself to Master Hua, stating he was there at Hua Que's behest to assist the Hua family in dealing with the "trouble" of Xiao Bai.
He explained that they had arranged to work together discreetly, which was why "Hua Que" could not yet show his face. Master Hua, believing this arrangement, agreed to the plan. Shangguan Qiuyue further reassured Master Hua that Xiao Bai would not recognize him as Hua Que since their last meeting was fifteen years ago. Later, when Xiao Bai came to take Chunhua to the Hua's Mansion, Chunhua, dreading the encounter, tried to hide.
Qin Liufeng's arrival and the subsequent discussion made her realize she had no choice but to go. To her shock, Shangguan Qiuyue, still posing as Hua Que, opened the door at Hua's Mansion. At the banquet prepared by Master Hua, Chunhua clung to Xiao Bai, her eyes fixated on him. Shangguan Qiuyue, annoyed, tried to signal Chunhua to sit beside him, but she feigned ignorance.
He then launched into a dramatic, tearful monologue about his deep bond with his "sister," compelling Chunhua to call him "brother." Between Shangguan Qiuyue's insistence and Xiao Bai's unwitting support, Chunhua reluctantly sat next to Shangguan Qiuyue. As Xiao Bai prepared to leave, he considerately suggested Chunhua stay to catch up with her family. Despite Chunhua's strong reluctance to stay, Shangguan Qiuyue swiftly pulled her back. Alone with Shangguan Qiuyue, Chunhua confronted him, demanding to know what he wanted.
She reiterated that she was Chunhua, had lost her memory, and her past "affair" with him was irrelevant. Shangguan Qiuyue acknowledged that Chunhua was not Hua Xiaolei, noting Hua Xiaolei's past affection for him contrasted with Chunhua's current feelings. Chunhua pleaded for him to release her, but Shangguan Qiuyue, his expression darkening, insisted on remaining her "brother," expressing his curiosity about what it felt like to have a family.
Chunhua questioned him about the conflicting claims regarding her chest mark – was it a birthmark as he claimed, or a scar as Xiao Bai claimed? She also expressed her desire to be with Xiao Bai, as she believed herself to be his fiancée. To move past their complicated history and allow herself a fresh start, Chunhua temporarily agreed to continue being his "sister," hoping he would forget their "past affair." Shangguan Qiuyue agreed, but made it conditional on her sincerity as his sister.
Episode 10 Recap
Late at night, Shangguan Qiuyue visits Chun Hua's room, attempting to leverage their connection. Chun Hua, however, firmly denies being Hua Xiaolei, insisting that any affair was with Hua Xiaolei, not her, and that she prefers him simply as her "Brother Qiuyue." To ensure he doesn't reveal her supposed past to Xiao Bai, Chun Hua agrees to do anything he asks.
He proposes a game with their Icy Silkworm Beads, betting that whoever's bead loses its light first must grant the other a wish. When Chun Hua's bead begins to fade, she cheats by running outside to use the moonlight. Amused, Shangguan Qiuyue reveals that the two beads are interconnected; as long as his bead retains its light, hers will not extinguish. Meanwhile, Xiao Bai polishes his Fengming Sword when Qin Liufeng enters, teasing him about a happy event.
Xiao Bai recounts helping the Hua family reunite, fulfilling his father's wishes. Qin Liufeng expresses suspicion about "Brother Hua" (Shangguan Qiuyue's disguise), finding his behavior lacking proper etiquette for a joyous reunion. Xiao Bai dismisses these concerns, suggesting Master Hua was simply overcome with emotion. When Qin Liufeng asks about Hua Xiaolei's amnesia, Xiao Bai notes that the family reunion seems to have had no effect, implying they need to find other ways to restore her memory.
The next morning, Shangguan Qiuyue uses a pseudo-sound technique to imitate Xiao Bai's voice, asking Chun Hua if she wishes to return to Fengming Manor. Chun Hua retorts that she would only go if Xiao Bai marries her, irritating Shangguan Qiuyue. He enters her room and warns her to dress quickly or she'll miss the real Xiao Bai, who has just arrived.
Chun Hua swiftly dresses and rushes to Xiao Bai, but a displeased Shangguan Qiuyue pulls her back to his side. Xiao Bai formally proposes to Master Hua to set a wedding date, but both Master Hua and Shangguan Qiuyue (as Hua Que) immediately reject the proposal and demand the engagement be canceled.
Posing as Hua Que, Shangguan Qiuyue argues that Fengming Manor failed to protect their "beloved daughter," who survived a fire only to lose her memory, making Xiao Bai an unsuitable guardian. Defeated by their arguments and Chun Hua's inability to sway them, Xiao Bai leaves to report back to his father. A distraught Chun Hua confronts Shangguan Qiuyue, returning the Icy Silkworm Bead and tearfully accusing him of ruining her marriage.
She blames him for her misfortunes, asserting that she and Xiao Bai were destined for each other. Shangguan Qiuyue dismisses her tears, calling her crying face ugly and claiming Xiao Bai is not sincere. After her tirade, Chun Hua decides to leave the Hua family to find Xiao Bai. Watching her go, Shangguan Qiuyue asks his subordinate, Star Chief Ye, for a way to bring her back.
Ye suggests spreading rumors about the "immortality fruit," knowing Xiao Bai's urgent need for it. If Xiao Bai returns to the Hua family for the fruit, Chun Hua will naturally follow, a plan Shangguan Qiuyue approves. News of the immortality fruit, said to be from the Medical Sage and able to revive the dead, spreads across the martial arts world. Fu Lou, the Chief of Legend Valley, seeks it for his ailing wife.
Chief Feng and Chief Leng also learn the fruit is at the Hua residence and agree to cooperate to obtain it. While discussing the canceled engagement, Xiao Bai and Qin Liufeng see a public notice about the fruit being at the Hua mansion in Yetan City and decide to return. After leaving the Hua family, Chun Hua arrives at an inn, only to find Xiao Bai has already left.
Exhausted and hungry, she is found by Feng Caicai, who offers her a bun. Soon after, she reunites with Xiao Bai and Qin Liufeng. When asked why she is there, Chun Hua joyfully declares her intention to elope with him, which brings a subtle, pleased smile to Xiao Bai's face.
However, her hopes are dashed when Qin Liufeng explains they must return to the Hua mansion because the immortality fruit, which is needed to save the Wulin Alliance Leader's life, is there. Disappointed that Xiao Bai's return is not for her, Chun Hua reluctantly agrees to go with them. Xiao Bai instructs Feng Caicai and Leng Ning to wait at the inn while he, Qin Liufeng, and Chun Hua proceed.
Upon their arrival, Shangguan Qiuyue, as Hua Que, warmly greets Chun Hua, playfully scolding her for leaving. Annoyed, Chun Hua retorts that she will leave with Xiao Bai once his business is concluded. Shangguan Qiuyue attempts to dismiss the men, citing the canceled engagement, but Xiao Bai clarifies their visit is about the immortality fruit. Shangguan Qiuyue allows them entry but orchestrates their separation by having Qin Liufeng question Master Hua while he speaks with Xiao Bai.
Shangguan Qiuyue then "confesses" to Xiao Bai that the fruit is in their mansion, claiming his father, Master Hua, wrote the notice intending to sell it for a high price. He fabricates a story that he advised his father to give the fruit to the Alliance Leader, but his father refused out of greed and even canceled the engagement, fearing Chun Hua would steal the fruit for the Xiao family. Chun Hua vehemently denies knowing anything.
Simultaneously, Qin Liufeng confronts Master Hua, who is utterly bewildered and angered by the mention of a notice or a fruit, realizing he is being framed. Despite Chun Hua's pleas and the inconsistencies, Xiao Bai remains wary and tells "Hua Que" that he will uncover the truth and form his own conclusions.
Episode 11 Recap
Qin Liufeng voiced suspicion that Shangguan Qiuyue might be behind the reappearance of the immortality fruit's clue at the Hua family's home in Yetan City. However, Master Hua dismissed the idea, asserting that his son, Hua Que, would not dare to act behind his back. Before Xiao Bai departed the Hua residence, he expressed gratitude to "Brother Hua," actually Shangguan Qiuyue in disguise, for his apparent sincerity.
Shangguan Qiuyue, fearing Chunhua might follow Xiao Bai, preemptively suggested that Xiao Bai take Chunhua with him, feigning support for their romance. Knowing Xiao Bai's upright character, Shangguan Qiuyue anticipated he would refuse to elope without Master Hua's explicit consent. As expected, Xiao Bai firmly declined, stating he would never act improperly without Master Hua's approval. Chunhua, disappointed, reluctantly claimed she was merely seeing Xiao Bai off to ensure her actions remained within propriety.
Upon Xiao Bai's departure, Master Hua confronted Shangguan Qiuyue, pressing him about the whereabouts of his real son, Hua Que, and demanding to know why Xiao Bai had unexpectedly returned for the immortality fruit. Shangguan Qiuyue cryptically implied that he could ensure Xiao Bai never returned, but it would come at a price, leading Master Hua to question his true identity.
Later, Xiao Bai, accompanied by Qin Liufeng and Chunhua, used a portrait of the individual masquerading as Hua Que to inquire about him. They were informed by a delivery person that the man in the painting was not Hua Que, confirming their suspicions. Recognizing the danger, Xiao Bai dispatched Qin Liufeng back to the inn to avoid alerting the impostor, while he and Chunhua rushed back to the Hua residence.
Upon their return, they found Chief Leng and his subordinates had seized the entire household, demanding the immortality fruit under threat of violence. Shangguan Qiuyue, still disguised as Hua Que, feigned terror and urged Master Hua to surrender the fruit. Xiao Bai burst in, attempting to stop Chief Leng, who claimed his actions were for Leader Xiao's benefit.
To escalate the conflict, Shangguan Qiuyue then declared that the immortality fruit was with Master Hua, forcing Master Hua to publicly expose the impostor's true identity by vehemently denying that he was his son. Shangguan Qiuyue, undeterred, twisted the narrative, accusing Master Hua of disowning his son for the sake of the fruit. At this crucial moment, Fu Lou appeared, reveling in the unfolding drama and addressing Shangguan Qiuyue as "Cave Chief Shangguan."
With his identity revealed, Shangguan Qiuyue abandoned his disguise, revealing his true self in a striking white attire. He then seized Chunhua and swiftly departed. Xiao Bai pursued Shangguan Qiuyue to a bamboo forest, where a fierce battle ensued. As their blades clashed, Chunhua rushed forward and shielded Xiao Bai, pleading with Shangguan Qiuyue not to harm him. Shangguan Qiuyue narrowly halted his attack, avoiding injury to Chunhua. Xiao Bai then cleaved through Shangguan Qiuyue's sword energy, forcing his retreat.
Though unharmed, Chunhua was visibly startled by how close Xiao Bai's blade came to her. Assuring her he never acts without certainty, Xiao Bai expressed disappointment in her lack of trust. Meanwhile, back at the Hua residence, Chief Leng and Fu Lou were locked in a desperate struggle. Chief Feng arrived to assist Chief Leng, but both were outmatched by Fu Lou.
Master Hua cried out that the situation was a demon's trap, but in a brutal turn, Chief Leng killed him before fleeing with Chief Feng. Driven by his relentless pursuit of the immortality fruit, Fu Lou then mercilessly slaughtered every remaining member of the Hua family. Xiao Bai returned to the devastated residence with Chunhua, witnessing the horrific aftermath. Overwhelmed with self-reproach, Xiao Bai felt immense guilt.
Chunhua, equally shocked, expressed profound sorrow for Hua Xiaolei's tragic fate, lamenting her pitiful circumstances. Both Qin Liufeng and Xiao Bai mistook Chunhua's distress for personal grief, and Xiao Bai, determined to offer her solace and protection, assured Chunhua that Fengming Manor would henceforth be her home.
He vowed to personally kill Shangguan Qiuyue, whom he now saw as a deceptive "well-groomed young man" who secretly committed heinous crimes, to avenge the Hua family and his father, whose name had been implicated by Chief Leng. On their journey, Qin Liufeng analyzed Shangguan Qiuyue's actions, suggesting his true objective was less about the immortality fruit and more about getting close to Chunhua, even hinting at a possible connection between her and the evil sect.
Xiao Bai, quick to defend her, was playfully teased by Qin Liufeng, who then clarified his concern: Shangguan Qiuyue might exploit their engagement to threaten Xiao Bai. Upon arriving at Fengming Manor, Xiao Bai reported the Hua family's extermination to his father, Leader Xiao, exposing Shangguan Qiuyue's deception. Leader Xiao ordered the impostor's portrait to be distributed among all martial arts sects.
He then inquired about the marriage agreement, and Xiao Bai declared his intention to grant Chunhua an honorable status within the manor. However, Leader Xiao advised him to seek Chunhua's consent, especially since she had lost her memory. Later, Shangguan Qiuyue sought out Chunhua, who confronted him with anger, blaming him for the Hua family's demise.
He attempted to console her, attributing the killings to Fu Lou and professing that she was his "only family," but she remained cold, and he departed dejectedly. Chunhua later found a pair of Icy Silkworm Beads he had left behind. Shortly after, Xiao Bai approached Chunhua to discuss her future, but a misunderstanding arose, with Chunhua believing he was trying to dismiss her. Before he could clarify, Qin Liufeng intervened and pulled Xiao Bai away.
Exasperated by Xiao Bai's romantic ineptitude, Qin Liufeng, declaring himself "Mr. Romance," advised him to directly present a betrothal letter. Qin Liufeng delivered the letter to Chunhua, who, trying to appear modest, claimed the proposal was too sudden and required consideration. When Qin Liufeng feigned misunderstanding and threatened to retract the offer, a startled Chunhua quickly snatched the letter back. Amused, Qin Liufeng said he would report her acceptance, to which Chunhua boldly demanded a "very romantic" proposal ceremony.
Later that night, Chunhua admired the letter, briefly wondering if Xiao Bai's proposal stemmed from responsibility rather than genuine affection. She then went to Xiao Bai's private bathing pool, where Shangguan Qiuyue materialized. His demeanor darkened as he produced the betrothal letter, reminding her of her promise to steal a mental cultivation method and warning that if she failed within three days, he would either kill her or take her back to Thousand Moon Cave.
Shortly after, Xiao Bai came to Chunhua and presented her with the Xiao family's secret mental cultivation method, explaining that Fengming Manor leaders traditionally pass it to their wives as a testament to unwavering loyalty. He then revealed that this act was his unique proposal ceremony, leaving Chunhua stunned that he would so easily entrust her with such a vital secret.
Episode 12 Recap
Xiao Bai presents Chun Hua with The Xiao family's mental cultivation method, prompting Chun Hua to ask if this is his proposal ceremony. Xiao Bai affirms, explaining that learning martial arts is for her own protection in the dangerous martial arts world. Chun Hua initially refuses, claiming she's too tired after her bath and fears she can't master it due to lacking a foundation and being unable to memorize it, stating that having him by her side is enough.
Xiao Bai insists that the method is universal and can even increase internal strength for those without martial arts foundation. Seeing her reluctance, he meticulously copies the formula for her, advising her to copy and meditate on it daily to master it over time. Chun Hua accepts the copied method, secretly noting Xiao Bai's naivety and realizing this would make Shangguan Qiuyue's task of acquiring the method much easier, allowing him to simply reap the benefits.
While attempting to memorize the copied mental cultivation method, Chun Hua overhears Leng Ning and Feng Caicai discussing her. Leng Ning subtly compares two mismatched earrings to people, then tells Feng Caicai that while Chunhua and Feng Caicai both have their merits in appearance—one lively, one serene—Chunhua lacks inner quality.
Leng Ning describes Feng Caicai as "beautiful and intelligent" (inside and out) but Chunhua as merely having "a good look only," further stating that Chunhua, who knows no martial arts and acts recklessly, is like "middle-quality jade" or "jade with impurities," in contrast to a "good jade" like Feng Caicai, and that Chunhua is even involved in the art of imitation voice.
Chunhua, enraged by this comparison and Leng Ning's assertion that the Young Master is blind to the good jade around him, directly confronts them. Leng Ning, seizing the opportunity, advises Chunhua that as a future Young Master's wife, she needs to cultivate her behavior, speech, and demeanor, even if she doesn't know martial arts. She urges Chunhua to learn martial arts, behave appropriately, prioritize the martial arts circles' justice, and even sacrifice herself to win reputation for Fengming Manor.
When Chunhua sarcastically asks if she would be disqualified if she couldn't meet these standards, Leng Ning confirms it. Chunhua, defiant, states that Xiao Bai likes her just the way she is, leaving Leng Ning to exasperatedly call her "hopeless." Chunhua then departs in anger. Returning to her room, Chun Hua discovers Shangguan Qiuyue already there, examining The Xiao family's mental cultivation method.
She attempts to seize it, but Shangguan Qiuyue notes that she has copied the method onto her palm, understanding her loyalty to Xiao Bai and instantly becoming displeased. He reminds her of their three-day deadline and threatens consequences if he doesn't receive the full method. As he threatens her, Qin Liufeng unexpectedly arrives, asking Chun Hua if she is satisfied with the proposal ceremony. To get rid of him quickly, Chun Hua enthusiastically confirms her satisfaction.
Qin Liufeng then asks if she has agreed to the marriage. Chun Hua, seeing Shangguan Qiuyue's deepening frown, tells Qin Liufeng to have Xiao Bai speak to her directly, dismissing him. The moment Qin Liufeng leaves, Shangguan Qiuyue's demeanor sharpens as he sternly forbids her from marrying Xiao Bai. Chun Hua, unfazed, declares that she'd rather be killed by him, believing it would move Xiao Bai.
Shangguan Qiuyue, realizing this tactic is ineffective, then subtly threatens to expose their past relationship to Xiao Bai. This causes Chun Hua to immediately beg him not to, offering to continue stealing the mental cultivation method for him if he promises to leave her alone. Shangguan Qiuyue mockingly agrees, only to immediately retract his promise, teasing her about the unpredictable nature of women's hearts.
Qin Liufeng, feeling utterly defeated after his encounter with Chun Hua, is approached by Xiao Bai, who notices his unusually frustrated demeanor. Qin Liufeng laments the difficulty of understanding women's thoughts, using an analogy of mistaking a pineapple for a durian, and expresses his preference for straightforward people like Xiao Bai as it saves effort.
He then directly tells Xiao Bai that Chun Hua was evidently not satisfied with the proposal ceremony and suggests Xiao Bai needs to express his feelings more. When Xiao Bai asks what kind of expression he means, Qin Liufeng lists various possibilities, including sweet words, gifts like garments or bracelets, or even just an exchange of glances if two people are deeply in love. Xiao Bai absorbs this advice.
Chun Hua diligently practices copying the mental cultivation method, worried that Xiao Bai might test her knowledge. Suddenly, she remembers that it is the third day, the deadline Shangguan Qiuyue set for her to obtain the full method.
Panicked and unwilling to hand over the real method, especially since he has already seen the first half, she devises a cunning plan: she will create a fake version of the mental cultivation method, deliberately riddled with mistakes, so that Shangguan Qiuyue will be unable to practice it effectively. She laughs imagining Shangguan Qiuyue's frustration when trying to practice the fake method. Following Qin Liufeng's advice, Xiao Bai visits Chun Hua.
Believing he's there to check on her progress with the mental cultivation method, Chun Hua insists she's been diligently reciting it despite its difficulty. Xiao Bai, however, presents her with a beautiful jade bracelet, revealing it to be an ancestral item of the Xiao family, a token of love from his father to his mother, who cherished it until her death.
Chun Hua is deeply touched by this gesture, perceiving it as a proposal without a ring, and asks Xiao Bai to help her put it on. After he carefully places the bracelet on her wrist, Xiao Bai, in his characteristic rigid manner, simply advises her to earnestly recite the mental cultivation method and then leaves, much to Chun Hua's disappointment as she wishes he had stayed for a more intimate moment or at least praised her.
As Chun Hua quietly admires her new bracelet, Shangguan Qiuyue suddenly appears, sarcastically remarking that she has a new bracelet but has neglected the Icy Silkworm Beads he gave her. He then demands the mental cultivation method. Chun Hua, misunderstanding that he wants the bracelet, pretends it's stuck on her wrist, playfully suggesting he'd have to take her hand too. Shangguan Qiuyue, however, pushes her hand away, reiterating his demand for the mental cultivation method.
Chun Hua then reluctantly hands him the fake, error-filled copy she prepared earlier, asking him to leave her alone permanently. Feeling her aversion, Shangguan Qiuyue expresses sadness and questions her apparent dislike, which Chun Hua nervously denies. He then attempts to undermine her confidence, telling her that with her "ugly appearance," finding true love is "wishful thinking" and that Xiao Bai will eventually use her. Chun Hua outwardly feigns agreement but inwardly refutes his words.
Shangguan Qiuyue then recounts a cautionary tale of a beautiful woman who fell in love with someone who used her, leading to immense suffering, implying Chun Hua could suffer a similar fate. He insists that she doesn't need to know the identities of these people, only that he is the only one who truly cares for her in the world.
Chun Hua tries to usher him out, fearing discovery, but Shangguan Qiuyue only agrees to leave after she puts on the Icy Silkworm Beads, which she promptly does, remarking on her good fortune to have two hands to wear both gifts. After Shangguan Qiuyue departs, Chun Hua intends to destroy the remaining portion of the fake mental cultivation method.
As she is about to do so, she unexpectedly sees Alliance Leader Xiao by the withered lotus pond at night, secretly pouring out medicine from a bottle, seemingly lost in thought and sorrow. Chun Hua approaches him and points out the cold weather and his act of discarding medicine. Alliance Leader Xiao responds by asking her which is more bitter: lotus seeds, which are yielded by withered lotus flowers, or his medicine, implying a shared bitterness.
Chun Hua agrees both are bitter and expresses surprise that he fears bitterness. He then asks her to keep his secret. Chun Hua finds his actions strange. Xiao Bai informs his father, Alliance Leader Xiao, that he has finally mastered the last movement of the Fengming Swordsmanship, living up to his expectations. Soon after, Chun Hua, still worried about Alliance Leader Xiao, finds Xiao Bai and urges him to check on his father.
Meanwhile, Alliance Leader Xiao reveals to Xiao Bai that he himself mastered the last movement of the Fengming Swordsmanship more than two decades ago, thanks to a stone lotus gifted by a friend, which unblocked his channels. He then bestows this very stone lotus upon Xiao Bai, instructing him to take it, assuring him that with it, he will soon master the final movement.
However, he gives a crucial warning: once mastered, the practitioner, the sword, and the stone will become one, and "none of these can be separated." Xiao Bai, recalling his father's earlier teachings that the three must never be separated, suddenly realizes the implications of his father giving away the stone. With a dawning sense of alarm, he cuts short his conversation with Chun Hua, telling her to return and rest while he rushes to find his father.
Inside Alliance Leader Xiao's room, a black-clad man with a scar appears. He directly questions Alliance Leader Xiao, asking if he has ever regretted his past actions, to which the Alliance Leader stoically replies that he would do it again if given another chance, as it was his mission. The black-clad man then scathingly asks what Shangguan Hui did wrong, accusing Alliance Leader Xiao of pouring off his medicine to seek death.
He vehemently questions why Alliance Leader Xiao provoked Shangguan Hui in the first place, only to condemn her to hell. Shangguan Qiuyue then reappears, expressing his profound sadness at Chun Hua's deception with the fake mental cultivation method. Chun Hua, caught off guard, feigns innocence and initially denies it, then attempts to shift the blame to Xiao Bai, accusing him of guarding against her and giving her a fake method instead.
Shangguan Qiuyue tests her by offering to kill Xiao Bai; Chun Hua initially agrees but quickly retracts, realizing killing Xiao Bai would prevent him from getting the real method. Shangguan Qiuyue then asks if she remembers his original reason for wanting her to steal the method. Chun Hua replies that his reasons change daily, so she couldn't possibly remember.
Shangguan Qiuyue reveals it was due to a woman who harbored deep hatred for the Xiao family and forced him to inherit this animosity. Chun Hua shrewdly guesses that the woman in question is their mother. Shangguan Qiuyue, dismissing the dead woman's lingering hatred, declares that he no longer needs Chun Hua to steal the mental cultivation method, much to her surprise and delight.
However, his subsequent words become cryptic: he states that her meeting him and her arrival at Fengming Manor occurred at "just the right time," contributing to a "wonderful play." He then invites her to come with him to watch this "wonderful show," leaving Chun Hua with an unsettling premonition.
Episode 13 Recap
Xiao Bai rushed into his father’s room, only to find Senior Leader Xiao had passed away. Distraught, Xiao Bai cried out, his anguish echoing. Chun Hua heard his cry and immediately abandoned Shangguan Qiuyue to run towards him. Meanwhile, Shangguan Qiuyue, feeling unsettled, finally noticed Ye Yan standing nearby as Chun Hua ran off.
He acknowledged that their mission to obtain the Xiao family’s mental cultivation method was now useless, as Xiao Bai had already mastered the final movement of the Fengming Swordsmanship. Shangguan Qiuyue then questioned whether Chun Hua, who was assigned to steal the method and knew too much, was still useful. Ye Yan stated that according to their custom, those who lose their value should be killed.
However, Shangguan Qiuyue found Chun Hua too interesting to simply discard and declared he would make her useful instead. Ye Yan seemed displeased, feeling Chun Hua's status in Shangguan Qiuyue's heart was unusual, and told him she didn't want to hear it. At the memorial hall for the deceased Senior Leader Xiao, various orthodox sects gathered, praising his lifelong dedication to upholding righteousness and strengthening Wulin, hailing him as a grand master.
Their eulogy was suddenly interrupted by a mocking voice, questioning the late leader's supposed integrity. When challenged to appear, the voice revealed himself to be Li Jianling of Yinshan Sect, a figure who had been missing for many years, much to the shock of the assembled chiefs. Li Jianling then openly accused Senior Leader Xiao and the present chiefs of hypocrisy.
Xiao Bai confronted Li Jianling, who retorted that Xiao Bai was as outwardly appealing yet inwardly repulsive as his father, Xiao Yuan. Despite others urging caution, Xiao Bai stood firm. A chief questioned Li Jianling’s long absence, to which Li Jianling responded that he was already a "dead-alive person." Shangguan Qiuyue and Chun Hua, who were eavesdropping from outside, exchanged words, with Shangguan Qiuyue confirming he had brought Li Jianling there for them to witness the "fun."
Li Jianling confronted Xiao Bai, asking if Xiao Yuan had given him the Magical Ice Stone before his death. Xiao Bai confirmed receiving a crystal but denied it was the Magical Ice Stone, claiming it was a gift from a friend.
Li Jianling pressed, asking if it was a white lotus-shaped crystal with a bloodstain, and when Xiao Bai confirmed this detail, Li Jianling revealed the truth: the "friend" was Hui, also known as Shangguan Hui, the sister of the Chief of Thousand Moon Cave. Li Jianling condemned Xiao Yuan for reducing Hui to a mere "friend" after she gave him the Magical Ice Stone, which helped him master the Fengming Swordsmanship, become the Alliance Leader, and provide for his son.
He then declared that even though Hui was the sister of an evil sect chief, she remained his beloved woman. The assembled crowd reacted with shock and disbelief at the revelation of Senior Leader Xiao's connection to a "demoness." Shangguan Qiuyue, listening, sarcastically pointed out the irony of Xiao Bai’s martial prowess relying on the very “demoness” scorned by the orthodox sects. Xiao Bai vehemently defended his father's integrity, denying any affair.
Li Jianling countered by asking if Xiao Bai had ever spent a Mid-Autumn Festival with his father, implying a secret. Xiao Bai defended his father’s dedication to justice, but Li Jianling persisted, revealing that every Lunar August 15, Xiao Yuan would journey to a remote lotus pond near Sangtian Village and stand there all night. He also asked if Xiao Bai had ever noticed an ice lotus pattern on his father’s chest, demanding Xiao Bai hear the full truth.
Li Jianling then recounted the story from 24 years prior: he and Xiao Yuan were poisoned and pursued by star servants, inadvertently stumbling into Ice Valley near Thousand Moon Cave. There, they were rescued by Hui. She was a beautiful woman born with a cold body constitution, which forced her to live perpetually in the freezing Ice Valley, where even lotuses could not survive.
She loved lotuses, and her brother had carved an "Icy Silkworm Pendant" into a lotus shape for her using Profound Ice Stone. Despite the grim prognosis for Xiao Yuan due to the poison, the lotus pattern on Hui’s chest miraculously detoxified him and left a colorful lotus mark on his heart. Hui then nursed him for three days and nights, during which time they fell deeply in love.
Li Jianling recalled Hui stopping them from leaving the valley, threatening them if they tried. Hui expressed her longing to see a real lotus and shared her wish to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival with Xiao Yuan, lighting lotus-shaped lanterns and wishing for them to be together forever. The Magical Ice Stone helped Xiao Yuan master unique martial arts, specifically the final movement of the Fengming Swordsmanship.
Feeling burdened by his responsibility to the world after his martial achievement, Xiao Yuan decided to leave the valley. Hui reminded him of his promise to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival with her, and Xiao Yuan vowed to return on Lunar August 15, regardless of the outcome of his task, to light lanterns and make wishes with her.
Li Jianling then revealed that the Fengming Sword, in addition to whistling when its final movement is mastered, also emits a heartbeat-like sound when its owner meets someone they love. He questioned whether Xiao Yuan’s wife had ever heard such a sound from his sword. Shangguan Qiuyue then asked Chun Hua if Xiao Bai's Fengming Sword had made a sound when he met her.
Chun Hua, feeling a bit disappointed, retorted that Xiao Bai had just mastered the technique, so it was normal not to hear a sound. When Shangguan Qiuyue pressed, asking if she truly wanted to hear it, Chun Hua remained silent. Shangguan Qiuyue instantly understood and, feeling depressed, turned to leave. He then dismissively concluded that Shangguan Hui was a "stupid girl" who had foolishly brought about her own death, finding the topic boring.
Li Jianling explained that Xiao Yuan had not known the function of the Magical Ice Stone or Hui's true identity at first. This explained Xiao Yuan’s sudden increase in power and his subsequent melancholic mood upon learning Hui was the sister of the Chief of Thousand Moon Cave, a demoness. Li Jianling had urged Xiao Yuan to stay with Hui and disregard the conflict between orthodox sects and Thousand Moon Cave.
However, Lunar August 15 was also the predetermined date for the orthodox sects to launch a decisive attack on Thousand Moon Cave, a battle that would secure Xiao Yuan’s position as the next Wulin Alliance Leader. During the attack, a treacherous star master's betrayal led to the Chief of Thousand Moon Cave’s immediate death. Hui, tragically, gave the Magical Ice Stone to Xiao Yuan, inadvertently causing her own brother's demise.
Li Jianling bitterly noted how the "great hero" Xiao Yuan had achieved his glorious feats in exterminating the evil sect solely with the help of a woman. Li Jianling recounted how he was pushed down a cliff, surviving with a disfigured face. He lived on for two reasons: to rescue Hui, who had suffered greatly, and to utterly discredit Xiao Yuan.
Xiao Bai questioned if Li Jianling had murdered his father, but Li Jianling clarified that Xiao Yuan had taken his own life by cutting off his channels. Li Jianling had, in fact, poisoned Xiao Yuan with Magical Ice Poison, intending for him to experience the same prolonged suffering Hui had endured, but Xiao Yuan chose a swifter end. Xiao Bai, now understanding his father's secret disappearances every Mid-Autumn Festival, was utterly devastated.
Having revealed the tragic truth, Li Jianling declared his life's purpose fulfilled and, vowing to join Hui, took his own life. Deeply affected by these revelations, Xiao Bai secluded himself. Outside, Chun Hua, Qin Liufeng, and Feng Caicai engaged in a philosophical discussion about love and righteousness, using a chess game as a metaphor.
Feng Caicai believed in prioritizing righteousness for the greater good, while Chun Hua and Qin Liufeng emphasized the importance of love and staying true to one's affections, even if it meant defying societal norms or original allegiances. Leng Ning then noticed Xiao Bai, who had come out to the pavilion, pondering the weighty choice before him.
Episode 14 Recap
Xiao Bai felt deeply conflicted after learning about his deceased father, the Senior Leader Xiao, and his past with Shangguan Hui. He struggled to accept that his father's revered lifetime majesty was built upon hurting, betraying, and even exploiting a woman of the evil sect. Disturbed, Xiao Bai sought release by practicing his Fengming Swordsmanship in the bamboo forest. Chun Hua, observing his distress, approached him. She gently reminded him that life is full of choices and compromises.
She reassured him that while his father might have hurt Shangguan Hui, he remained a hero who upheld his reputation in Wulin. To cheer him up, Chun Hua pretended to pluck the brightest star from the sky and then symbolically presented him with a chess piece, explaining that even as pieces in a complex game, they should cherish the original intention of love and avoid getting lost in the chaos.
Touched by her words and gesture, Xiao Bai's Fengming Sword hummed softly. Meanwhile, Shangguan Qiuyue was also grieving, having learned of his mother Shangguan Hui's past. He believed his mother was foolishly passionate and naive for trusting an unreliable person.
Witnessing Chun Hua's devotion to Xiao Bai—gifting him a chess piece and stargazing with him—Shangguan Qiuyue worried that Chun Hua might face a similar tragic fate, realizing that her importance to Xiao Bai might not even compare to his Fengming Sword.
Believing that his mother and Chun Hua shared a similar blind devotion that led them to love the wrong men, Shangguan Qiuyue silently vowed to prevent his sister, Chun Hua, from suffering the same miserable ending that befell his mother, who Li Jianling described as having a connection with the evil sect and was involved in Xiao Bai’s mastery of the Fengming Swordsmanship.
Word then spread from Mr. Shi about an upcoming auction for an immortality fruit in Gucha Lane of Bishui City, with a one million tael threshold. Shangguan Qiuyue relayed this information to Fu Lou, who was desperately searching for the fruit to treat his ailing wife, Sisi.
Fu Lou, who was still dwelling on a past vow from Chief Nan Xinghe that stated whoever killed the Wulin Alliance Leader could unite the Star Moon Sect, expressed his frustration that Xiao Yuan was killed by an irrelevant person while he was preoccupied with the immortality fruit. Shangguan Qiuyue, however, found Fu Lou's desperation amusing and offered him the latest information about the auction as a gesture of gratitude for the amusement.
As news of the auction circulated, various orthodox sects began making excuses to bid farewell to Xiao Bai, ostensibly to attend to important matters. Xiao Bai's companions, including Chun Hua, Leng Ning, and Feng Caicai, discussed the situation. Chun Hua openly challenged the notion that only evil sects would be interested, pointing out that many orthodox sects also coveted the immortality fruit and hinting at the previous Senior Leader Xiao's alleged involvement when he was seriously ill.
Leng Ning vehemently disagreed, asserting that her father, Chief Leng, always brushed aside such matters and preached avoiding fame and wealth. Feng Caicai echoed this, stating her family believed in obtaining things ethically and would not get involved. Despite their protests, Xiao Bai noted that many had already bid him farewell, recognizing their true intentions.
He mused that while the auction could be a trap, Fengming Manor could not ignore it, reflecting on his father's philosophy of sacrificing individual lives for the greater good. Chief Leng soon arrived to bid farewell, offering to go ahead to Bishui City with men to maintain order and prevent chaos, allowing Xiao Bai to prioritize his father's funeral.
Though Chun Hua eyed him skeptically, Xiao Bai, inherently pure-hearted, graciously accepted Chief Leng's offer, promising to join him swiftly after laying his father to rest. The dual pressure of managing his family's affairs and the martial arts world weighed heavily on Xiao Bai. Chun Hua watched him discreetly as he practiced his swordsmanship. When he stumbled, nearly falling, she rushed to his side, expressing her worry about his well-being.
Xiao Bai reflected on his father's teachings, such as "practice is like sailing against the current; either I keep forging ahead or I keep falling behind," and that only one who cares for all people can truly pacify Wulin. Chun Hua offered her own wisdom in parallel, suggesting that the cultivation of a relationship followed the same law, and that one who cannot hold a single girl in their heart cannot possibly pacify the world.
Xiao Bai was deeply moved, promising to remember everything she said. Taking him to his father's ancestral hall, Chun Hua praised the Senior Leader for raising such a noble, righteous, and charming son. She added that true benevolence requires one to first learn to love and understand people. Xiao Bai repeated her words, showing he had taken them to heart.
Delighted, Chun Hua suggested they high-five and reminded him to think of her words more often instead of solely his father's. Xiao Bai smiled, and when their palms met, Chun Hua gently intertwined their fingers, causing the Fengming Sword to hum again. Xiao Bai insisted on bringing Chun Hua along for the immortality fruit matter. Leng Ning strongly objected, fearing that Chun Hua's lack of martial arts skills would endanger them and hinder their mission.
Xiao Bai countered that Chun Hua would be safer by his side, which Feng Caicai agreed with, acknowledging his thoughtfulness. Leng Ning, annoyed by Feng Caicai's perceived lack of romantic ambition, and Qin Liufeng's eagerness to protect Chun Hua, sharply retorted that Chun Hua was Xiao Bai's fiancée and thus not Qin Liufeng's concern, effectively silencing him.
Feng Caicai, taking Leng Ning's earlier advice to be more proactive in seizing opportunities, then suggested Xiao Bai ask Chun Hua for her opinion. Chun Hua, who had been secretly listening, excitedly rushed into the room, proclaiming, "I'd like to go! I'd like to go!" In her haste, she stumbled over the threshold but was swiftly caught and held close by Xiao Bai.
Qin Liufeng, witnessing their intimacy, teased Xiao Bai, remarking on how composed he was despite having "a beauty in his arms," unlike his usual reserved self, and playfully wished for his own "soft and pretty girl." Leng Ning, exasperated, stormed off, with Feng Caicai and Qin Liufeng following behind her. Chun Hua, feeling she might have overreacted, sheepishly apologized to Xiao Bai.
He gently reassured her, stating she had done more "over the top" things before, like calling him "darling" when they first met. Chun Hua feigned forgetfulness, insisting she was an "educated, reasonable, and soft girl." Xiao Bai then quoted her earlier "truth": "the cultivation of a relationship is like sailing against the current; either I keep forging ahead or I keep falling behind."
He reflected on his past reserved nature, acknowledging he had only focused on martial arts and had not realized there were other "lakes" to explore. Chun Hua, with a playful smile, declared that she would not be a mere lake, but a vast sea, ready to sweep him away with a tidal wave. They shared a knowing smile. Meanwhile, Qin Liufeng continued his attempts to appease Leng Ning, offering her a sachet lovingly made with rare ingredients.
Leng Ning, however, remained unimpressed, dismissing it as "a rotten interior beneath a fine exterior" and a common trick used by young men. Qin Liufeng defended himself, arguing he was different from other rich scions. Leng Ning then steered the conversation to Senior Leader Xiao and Shangguan Hui's love story, pondering how she would have acted in their shoes. She concluded that she would prioritize saving the people over personal emotions, a path she believed her life would also follow.
Feng Caicai then complimented Leng Ning, saying she was intelligent and kind-hearted and would surely have a beautiful marriage. Leng Ning, in turn, complimented Feng Caicai, saying she was incomparable. Feng Caicai humbly disagreed, lamenting her single status caught between Leng Ning and Qin Liufeng, and Chun Hua and Xiao Bai.
Leng Ning then sharply retorted that Xiao Bai simply did not appreciate Feng Caicai's kindness and that Feng Caicai had done exceptionally well, even better than Leng Ning herself would have in such a situation.
Episode 15 Recap
As Xiao Bai carried Chun Hua with his light martial arts to the riverside, his heart pounded, and the Fengming Sword began to hum, a sound it makes when its owner is deeply moved. Chun Hua, however, felt her own heart beat steadily, wondering why she didn't feel the same rapid pulse as Xiao Bai. Xiao Bai tried to control the humming of his sword, but to no avail.
He then bravely confessed his feelings, telling Chun Hua that he loved her and wished to hear her call him "darling" for the rest of his life. Chun Hua felt no immediate excitement, rationalizing that her lack of reaction was due to the suddenness and old-fashioned nature of his confession. She gathered her thoughts, accepted his confession, and ordered him to take his words seriously in the future. They then shared a sweet embrace.
Later that night, Chun Hua lay in bed, holding her Icy Silkworm Beads with a low spirit. When the beads rolled away, Qiu Yue, dressed in white, entered and picked them up for her. With a hint of redness in his eyes, he placed the beads back on her and addressed her as the "future Mrs. Xiao," asking if she was excited about obtaining the immortality fruit in a few days.
Chun Hua, having decided to forgo eternal life for love, dismissed the immortality fruit as a "vulgar object" and stated she was only interested in an unforgettable love. Qiu Yue scoffed, claiming love was nothing but a source of sorrow and ridicule for others, asserting that in Xiao Bai’s heart, Chun Hua was likely less important than the ancestral Fengming Sword.
When Chun Hua challenged his understanding of love and his presence at Fengming Villa, Qiu Yue, teasing her about her newfound boldness since she stopped calling him "brother," threatened to kill Xiao Bai. Chun Hua countered that Xiao Bai had mastered the last movement of Fengming Swordsmanship, making him difficult to kill.
Qiu Yue then reiterated his belief that Chun Hua's standing in Xiao Bai's mind could not compare to his great cause, his martial arts principles, or even his family's sword, prompting Chun Hua to simply wait and see. Meanwhile, Chief Leng, who was said to be managing Wulin affairs on behalf of the junior alliance leader, encountered Chief Feng.
Chief Leng asserted he was "cleaning house" by eliminating "hypocrites" who harbored sinister motives under the guise of justice, thereby stabilizing the situation for the junior leader. Chief Feng scoffed at this, exposing Chief Leng for slaughtering fellow martial artists under the junior leader's name without his knowledge. Chief Leng coldly replied that as long as he silenced Chief Feng, the junior leader would remain ignorant. A fierce battle ensued.
Chief Feng, proving no match for Chief Leng, ultimately fell to his sword. Chief Leng then lamented their long-standing acquaintance, but stated that it was a pity there was only one immortality fruit. Shortly after, Qiu Yue and his subordinate discovered Feng Qianwei's body. Qiu Yue instructed Mr. Shi to prepare a superior coffin for him, noting that Feng Qianwei had died from the poison Dandelion.
As the news of the immortality fruit auction spread, many prominent figures and sect leaders, including Chief Sui Feng and Chief Tao Ran, converged on Bishui City, all eager to obtain the fruit. Fu Lou also arrived, determined to secure the immortality fruit. He observed Shangguan Qiuyue, who seemed disinterested in the artifact despite having searched for it.
Fu Lou speculated that Qiu Yue's disinterest in such a valuable item suggested he had a weakness, which Fu Lou resolved to uncover. Elsewhere, Leng Ning, having had a disagreement with Qin Liufeng, refused to travel with him. When they arrived at an inn, the waiter informed them only one room remained. Mistaking Feng Caicai and Leng Ning, who was disguised as a man, for a couple, he assigned them the single room.
Leng Ning found the misunderstanding amusing and agreed, telling Feng Caicai they would have to make do. She then playfully declared herself Feng Caicai's "little husband," emphasizing that she too would have to learn to be considerate, despite Feng Caicai's light sleep. Chun Hua, wishing for some private time with Xiao Bai, settled into his and Qin Liufeng’s room, refusing to leave.
Qin Liufeng, understanding her intent and wanting to create an opportunity for them, produced a real flower and subtly gave it to Xiao Bai, signaling him to seize the moment before discreetly excusing himself. Xiao Bai then presented the flower to Chun Hua, who asked him to place it in her hair. As he did so, a white chess piece fell from his person. Chun Hua recognized it as the one she had given him.
Xiao Bai explained that he kept it close for protection during their dangerous journey to Bishui City, regretting not having kept her thoughtful gift more carefully. Chun Hua then showed him a star she had woven from a red string, asking if it resembled the red rope of God of Love and Marriage that tied them together, to which Xiao Bai shyly agreed.
She then placed his white chess piece in the center of the star, naming their creation "Eternal Love," and the two smiled sweetly together. As it grew late, Xiao Bai suggested they go out to gather information. Chun Hua eagerly agreed and walked ahead, seemingly oblivious that Qin Liufeng was still staying in the same inn. Xiao Bai, observing her singular focus on him, smiled contentedly.
As Chun Hua and her companions exited the inn, they encountered Chief Sui Feng, who had previously claimed to leave to handle matters concerning his daughter. Chun Hua immediately exposed his true reason for being in Bishui City: the immortality fruit auction. Chief Sui Feng grew enraged, threatening Chun Hua. Xiao Bai stepped forward to protect her but was stopped by Qin Liufeng. Feng Caicai also spoke up in Chun Hua's defense.
Chief Sui Feng then sneered, accusing all the self-proclaimed orthodox sects of hypocrisy for coveting the immortality fruit. He also slyly hinted at Chief Leng's recent secretive behavior, implying Chief Leng might be the most eager to obtain the fruit. Leng Ning vehemently denied the accusation, asserting that her father, Chief Leng, was there to assist the junior alliance leader.
Chief Sui Feng then turned to Feng Caicai, mentioning he had met her father, Chief Feng, the previous day and wondered why he was lingering in Bishui City. Qin Liufeng quickly reassured Leng Ning and Feng Caicai, stating that he and Xiao Bai knew their fathers well and trusted they were not unscrupulous individuals. Back in her room, Chun Hua decided to make a better impression by giving Xiao Bai an even more beautiful flower in return for his gift.
She went to a flower stall, but just as she was about to pick a blossom, a maid took it first. The maid, an attendant of Lady You Si, was about to argue when another maid recognized Chun Hua. Lady You Si herself then appeared and graciously gifted the flower to Chun Hua, inviting her to Legend Valley to admire the flowers there instead of buying picked ones.
Chun Hua, initially hesitant due to her past experiences, agreed after Lady You Si assured her that Fu Lou, the valley chief, was not present and seeing the sincerity in Lady You Si's eyes. Lady You Si’s maid later expressed relief that Chun Hua had seemingly reconciled with Valley Chief Fu, as Lady You Si had worried about misunderstandings between them.
Lady You Si then gently inquired about the immortality fruit auction, telling Chun Hua that Fu Lou's relentless pursuit of the fruit was to cure her prolonged illness, as she had not long to live. She apologized for any distress Fu Lou's actions might have caused due to his desperate attempts to find a cure for her. Unsure how to respond to such a personal revelation, Chun Hua asked to take a walk outside.
As Chun Hua wandered through the vast flower sea, Qiu Yue suddenly appeared. He remarked on Fu Lou's grand gesture of cultivating such a large flower sea for his wife, You Si, and then provocatively asked if Xiao Bai would do the same for Chun Hua. Chun Hua retorted that it was enough for Xiao Bai to simply have her in his heart.
Qiu Yue persisted, questioning her certainty and reminding her that Xiao Bai had yet to choose between her and his ancestral Fengming Sword. Exasperated, Chun Hua told him to stop meddling, asserting that since he wasn't her real brother and no longer needed the Fengming Swordsmanship, she had no "use value" to him.
Qiu Yue then declared his desire to keep her by his side, but struggled with how to do so, pondering if she would prefer him to simply kill her. Terrified, Chun Hua pleaded for her life, promising to be a dutiful, virtuous wife after marrying Xiao Bai. Enraged by her singular focus on marriage, Qiu Yue kissed and bit her. At that moment, Lady You Si's maid arrived, causing Qiu Yue to leave.
Chun Hua then overheard Fu Lou's subordinate plotting with Lady You Si's maid to capture her, believing she held the secret to the immortality fruit. They planned to take her to the valley chief for questioning and cover her disappearance by telling Lady You Si she had left after admiring the flowers. Chun Hua attempted to escape, but Fu Lou's men spotted her.
Just as they were about to seize her, Chun Hua cried out, "When will Chunhua and Qiuyue have an ending?" before being knocked unconscious. Qiu Yue then appeared and rescued her, seemingly pleased that she had thought of him in her moment of crisis. Meanwhile, Xiao Bai and his companions discovered Chun Hua's disappearance and frantically searched for her throughout Bishui City.
Leng Ning complained that bringing Chun Hua along was a mistake, as she was a burden and constantly got lost. However, they found no sign of a struggle in the room, prompting them to consider expanding their search outside the city. Qiu Yue brought Chun Hua back to Thousand Moon Cave, where he patiently cared for her, noting that her quiet demeanor was uncharacteristic.
However, as she lay unconscious, Chun Hua murmured Xiao Bai's name, causing Qiu Yue's expression to harden. Upon waking, Chun Hua, worried about Xiao Bai's distress, tried to persuade Qiu Yue to return to Bishui City to witness the excitement of the immortality fruit auction, but he refused. She then noticed her bracelet, a gift from Xiao Bai, was missing, immediately suspecting Qiu Yue was up to something.
Qiu Yue confirmed he intended to "test" Xiao Bai, reassuring Chun Hua that it was merely a "little game" and she should simply stay and watch the events unfold from afar.
Episode 16 Recap
Xiao Bai, using his Qinggong, carried Chunhua to the riverside. His heart pounded with her close proximity, and the Fengming Sword began to resonate. Chunhua, however, did not experience the same accelerated heartbeat, pondering why she remained unaffected. Xiao Bai tried to control the sword's resonance, but to no avail. He then resolved to express his feelings, telling Chunhua that he loved her and wished for her to always call him her husband.
Upon hearing his confession, Chunhua's heart remained calm, but she rationalized her lack of emotional upheaval by attributing it to the sudden and somewhat clichéd nature of the confession. Composing herself, she accepted Xiao Bai’s declaration and urged him to take their relationship seriously. The two then shared a sweet embrace. Later that night, Chunhua lay in bed, her emotions low, clutching the Icy Silkworm Beads.
The beads unexpectedly rolled off the bed, and a figure in white entered, picking them up for her. It was Autumn Moon, whose eyes appeared somewhat red. He gently placed the Icy Silkworm Beads back on Chunhua and addressed her as "Mrs. Xiao," asking if she was excited about soon obtaining the immortality fruit. Chunhua, reflecting on her choice to pursue love over eternal life, responded that she desired only love, not immortality.
Autumn Moon countered that love was merely a spectacle for others' amusement, suggesting that in Xiao Bai's heart, she might not even rank higher than his Fengming Sword. Chunhua remained silent, offering no retort. Autumn Moon then challenged her to put his assertion to the test. Meanwhile, Chief Feng confronted Chief Leng. Chief Feng revealed that Chief Leng had been using Xiao Bai's name to slaughter many members of orthodox sects, falsely claiming to be cleansing their ranks.
In reality, Chief Leng's true motive was to eliminate anyone who sought the immortality fruit. Exposed, Chief Leng engaged Chief Feng in battle. Chief Feng, however, proved no match for Chief Leng and ultimately succumbed to his sword. Afterward, Autumn Moon and Ye Xing Shi discovered Chief Feng's body, prompting Autumn Moon to instruct Mr. Shi to prepare a fine coffin for him. In pursuit of the immortality fruit, prominent figures from various major sects began to gather.
Fu Lou was also among them, resolute in his determination to acquire the fruit. He found Autumn Moon's apparent disinterest perplexing and resolved to uncover Autumn Moon's vulnerabilities. Leng Ning, still at odds with Qin Liufeng, declined to accompany him. When they arrived at an inn, only one room remained available. The waiter, mistaking Feng Caicai and Leng Ning—who was disguised in men's clothing—for a married couple, assigned the last room to them.
Leng Ning found the situation amusing and agreed to share the room with Feng Caicai. Chunhua, desiring private time with Xiao Bai, deliberately lingered in the room he shared with Qin Liufeng. Qin Liufeng, discerning her intentions and wishing to facilitate a romantic moment for them, subtly handed Xiao Bai a small flower, signaling him to seize the opportunity, and then gracefully exited the room.
Xiao Bai presented the flower to Chunhua, who asked him to tuck it into her hair. As he did, a white chess piece slipped from Xiao Bai. Chunhua recognized it as a gift she had given him, and Xiao Bai assured her he would safeguard her sentiment. Chunhua then showed him a star she had woven from red thread, asking if it symbolized the red string of fate tying them together, to which Xiao Bai shyly agreed.
She placed the chess piece in the center of the star, explaining it represented "turning stars into a single heart," and the two shared sweet smiles. Xiao Bai mentioned he would go out to assess the situation. Chunhua, overjoyed, departed ahead, completely forgetting that Qin Liufeng was still present. Xiao Bai, realizing Chunhua's exclusive focus on him, smiled sweetly. Upon reaching the entrance, Chunhua and her group encountered Chief Suifeng, who had previously excused himself due to family matters.
Chunhua immediately exposed his true intention for being there: the immortality fruit. Angered, Chief Suifeng prepared to confront Chunhua, but Xiao Bai’s attempt to protect her was subtly thwarted by Qin Liufeng. Feng Caicai spoke up in Chunhua’s defense. Chief Suifeng, scoffing, then revealed that Chief Leng and Chief Feng were both present, unsettling Leng Ning and Feng Caicai. Qin Liufeng reassured them, stating he knew both chiefs well and they shouldn't be concerned.
At the general gathering of sects, Qin Liufeng proposed a toast, expressing his honor to be among the chiefs in Bishui City. Qin Liufeng's father, Chief Qin, also present among the guests, spoke briefly of benefiting from misfortune, mentioning an incident involving his daughter before quickly dismissing further detail. Xiao Bai, as the Junior Leader, then addressed the assembled chiefs, acknowledging that they had gathered for various reasons, particularly with the auction of the immortality fruit approaching in an hour.
He emphasized that as righteous members of the Wulin, they should prioritize the order of the martial arts circles, especially with evil sects potentially lurking. Xiao Bai advised those interested in the immortality fruit to prepare their silver and compete according to the established rules. He then joined the other chiefs for a meal, while inwardly prioritizing the overall situation over personal matters, deciding not to ask them about Chunhua's whereabouts. Back in her room, Chunhua meticulously dressed.
Recalling the flower Xiao Bai had given her, she decided to procure an even more beautiful one for him. She ventured out to a flower stall, where she was about to select a bloom when it was snatched by Lady You Si's maid. Just as a dispute was about to erupt, another of Lady You Si's maids recognized Chunhua. Lady You Si herself then intervened, gifting the flower to Chunhua and extending an invitation to Legend Valley for flower appreciation.
Chunhua initially hesitated but, upon learning that Fu Lou would not be present and perceiving the genuine sincerity in Lady You Si's eyes, she reluctantly accepted. Lady You Si later asked Chunhua about the upcoming immortality fruit auction, explaining that Fu Lou sought the fruit as a cure for his illness. Unsure how to respond, Chunhua requested to go for a walk. As Chunhua strolled through a flower sea, Autumn Moon once again materialized.
He provocatively asked if Xiao Bai would cultivate such a flower sea for her as Fu Lou had. Chunhua countered that Xiao Bai's affection was sufficient. Autumn Moon persisted, questioning her true value in Xiao Bai's eyes compared to the Fengming Sword. Chunhua rebuked him for his meddling, asserting that she was not his sister, he did not require her martial arts knowledge, nor did she possess any practical use for him, so his intense interest was unwarranted.
Autumn Moon then declared his intention to either keep Chunhua by his side or eliminate her. Frightened, Chunhua promised to be an obedient wife after marrying Xiao Bai and pleaded for her release. Angered, Autumn Moon kissed her, biting her in the process. Just then, Lady You Si's maid arrived looking for Chunhua, prompting Autumn Moon to depart. Chunhua then overheard a clandestine conversation between Fu Lou's subordinates and Lady You Si's maid, plotting her capture.
She attempted a quiet escape, but Fu Lou's men quickly discovered her. Just as they were about to seize her, Chunhua desperately called for Autumn Moon through her Icy Silkworm Beads, reciting a line, "When will Spring Flowers and Autumn Moon end?" Fu Lou's subordinates then struck her unconscious. Autumn Moon, appearing just in time, rescued Chunhua, expressing satisfaction that she had thought to call for him in her moment of peril.
He explained to her that he had already informed Xiao Bai that he had kidnapped her, which was why her hands were tied. Autumn Moon then made a bet with Chunhua: he would wager that Xiao Bai would miss the auction and come to rescue her, questioning her perceived value to Xiao Bai compared to the Fengming Sword. Meanwhile, Xiao Bai and his companions had discovered Chunhua's disappearance and were anxiously searching for her.
Leng Ning complained that Chunhua was a burden and shouldn't have been brought along. Autumn Moon had set the exchange of Fengming Sword for Chunhua at midday, which conflicted with the immortality fruit auction starting a quarter past midday. Qin Liufeng suggested that Xiao Bai prioritize rescuing Chunhua, proposing he attempt to retrieve her and return before the exchange time. Xiao Bai agreed to this plan, assuring them he would rejoin them as swiftly as possible.
His companions, including Qin Liufeng, pledged to stabilize the auction's proceedings until both he and Chunhua returned safely. Autumn Moon brought Chunhua back to Thousand Moon Cave, where he patiently cared for her, amused by her docile demeanor. However, while delirious, Chunhua called out Xiao Bai’s name, causing Autumn Moon’s expression to instantly harden. When she awoke, worried about Xiao Bai, Chunhua tried to persuade Autumn Moon to return to Bishui City to witness the excitement, but he flatly refused.
Chunhua then noticed that the bracelet Xiao Bai had given her was missing, realizing Autumn Moon was plotting something malicious. Autumn Moon simply told her to quietly watch the unfolding drama. Autumn Moon, speaking to a subordinate, commented on how boring it had become since Chunhua left, musing that he and Chunhua were of similar age, and wondered if she and Xiao Bai would witness the impending "big show" at the auction from afar.
At the auction, the atmosphere grew tense as the time for the immortality fruit auction approached. The price of entry was high, and it was announced that only one fruit existed, implying a fight for survival among those present. Attendees grew restless, demanding to know where the fruit and Mr. Shi were, as many believed Mr. Shi was the key to verifying the fruit's authenticity.
It was revealed that many of the orthodox sects had been trapped by a dark curtain and were forced to fight each other, leading to a bloodbath. Fu Lou, observing the chaos, expressed his intention to appear at the "bloody auction" himself. Qin Liufeng's father and Chief Suifeng were also present, observing cautiously, realizing the chaotic nature of the event and deciding to avoid the "muddied waters" for now.
Just as Autumn Moon was commenting that Chunhua didn't seem to be worth a Fengming Sword, Xiao Bai arrived as promised. He challenged Autumn Moon, declaring his intention to reclaim Chunhua. Autumn Moon attempted to instigate a fight between Xiao Bai and his subordinates, but Xiao Bai, adhering to Fengming Mountain Villa's rule of not killing women with the Fengming Sword, only injured his subordinates. Xiao Bai confronted Autumn Moon, who demanded the Fengming Sword in exchange for Chunhua.
Xiao Bai threw the sword. Autumn Moon, however, went back on his word and tried to strangle Chunhua, before ultimately releasing her. As Xiao Bai retrieved his Fengming Sword, Autumn Moon mocked him, revealing that the sword contained Icy Silk. Autumn Moon then explained to Chunhua that no one knew there was Icy Silk on Xiao Bai's Fengming Sword, an item he later discovered was a relic left by his deceased father.
He further explained that he only learned of the Icy Silk's connection to Thousand Moon Cave after he learned about Shangguan Hui, assuring Chunhua he would address these matters as soon as possible.
Episode 17 Recap
Chief Leng burst into a stone chamber, seeking the elusive Mr. Shi, with whom he had conspired to lure the orthodox sects. Having risked his own daughter in the scheme, Chief Leng vehemently demanded the immortality fruit as his reward. He accused Mr. Shi of not keeping his promise and threatened to expose him to the martial arts world if he refused, ensuring Mr. Shi's ruin.
The "Mr. Shi" he confronted offered five million taels instead, but Chief Leng scornfully rejected the money, insisting solely on the immortality fruit. Believing he could seize it by force, he attacked, only to discover that the person before him was a mere decoy. As Chief Leng turned his attention to a coffin in the chamber, just as he was about to open it, Leng Ning and the others arrived. Overjoyed to see her father safe, Leng Ning embraced him.
Fu Lou, however, opened the coffin, stating it wasn't what he sought but might interest them. To their shock, it revealed not the immortality fruit, but the body of Chief Feng. Xiao Bai immediately called for Feng Caicai, who collapsed in tears upon seeing her deceased father. Chief Leng then pointed to Fu Lou, accusing him of the murder.
Xiao Bai and the others confronted Fu Lou, who, proclaiming his clear conscience, disdained to offer any defense to "rats" like them and simply walked away. As they examined Chief Feng's body, Feng Caicai discovered he had been poisoned with a highly volatile substance. She touched her father and, overcome by the poison, fell unconscious. Many doctors were subsequently consulted, but none could find a cure for Feng Caicai.
Meanwhile, Shangguan Qiuyue, furious about Chunhua's departure, had sent his subordinate Ye Xingshi to buy nüerhong. Ye Xingshi cautiously informed him that Xiao Bai and his companions had fallen into the trap, then inquired if Shangguan Qiuyue was concerned about Chunhua's safety. With a hint of bitterness, Shangguan Qiuyue dismissed the worry, stating that the renowned Master Xiao was by her side.
Ye Xingshi further questioned why Shangguan Qiuyue had requested nüerhong from Bishui City instead of their usual ice liquor from Thousand Moon Cave. Annoyed by the questioning, Shangguan Qiuyue explained he was tired of ice liquor and wished to sample the taste of the human world. However, finding the nüerhong’s flavor disappointing and complex, he smashed the bottle in frustration, scattering its contents like snowflakes.
The brutal events of the auction left a deep impression on Leng Ning, who was particularly worried about Feng Caicai's injury and had to be comforted by Qin Liufeng. Xiao Bai was also deeply affected. He felt immense guilt for Chunhua’s distress and questioned the purpose of his long-standing protection of the common people and orthodox sects, feeling that human greed overshadowed all his efforts and casting doubt on his convictions.
Chunhua comforted him, reminding him of Senior Leader Xiao’s lifelong dedication to martial arts stability, even when suffering from poison, and his principle of doing what is right even if it seems impossible. She urged Xiao Bai not to despair and to believe in the inherent value of his protection, deeply touching him. That night, Chunhua was haunted by nightmares from the day's horrors and was on the verge of waking up in fear.
Shangguan Qiuyue appeared, acupointed her, and gently soothed her, helping her drift back into a peaceful sleep. The following morning, Qin Liufeng took Feng Caicai to Doctor Bu, the Medical Sage's younger brother, for her poisoning. Doctor Bu diagnosed the poison as "Dandelion," explaining its highly infectious nature and widespread dispersion. However, he admitted that while he knew its name, the antidote had long been lost, and he could only provide a prescription to sustain Feng Caicai for seven days.
He stressed that only the poisoner could provide the true antidote. When Qin Liufeng suggested Fu Lou, Doctor Bu clarified that Fu Lou was not skilled in making poisons, leading Chunhua to realize the poisoner was likely Shangguan Qiuyue. Frustrated by Doctor Bu's inability to cure Feng Caicai, Leng Ning resolved to confront Fu Lou herself for the antidote. Xiao Bai was consumed by guilt, believing that if he had returned sooner, the tragedy would have been avoided.
Chunhua consoled him again, emphasizing that the events in Bishui City were a nightmare and that he shouldn’t blame himself, as no one could have predicted such a disaster. Leng Ning went to Chuanqi Valley to find Fu Lou. Qin Liufeng followed her. To provoke Fu Lou, Leng Ning insulted You Si Furen. Fu Lou appeared and fought Leng Ning, injuring her. Qin Liufeng quickly intervened to help.
Fu Lou stated he would not kill them, as they had not yet experienced the true evils of human nature. Later, Qin Liufeng returned with the injured Leng Ning through the pouring rain, much to the relief of Xiao Bai and Chunhua. Leng Ning had caught a cold. Chunhua, determined to save Feng Caicai, decided to approach Shangguan Qiuyue for the antidote. Recalling her own journey of abandoning immortality for love, she reflected on the realities of fear and worry.
She then playfully tied herself up, and repeatedly called out "When will Chunhua and Qiuyue have an ending?" to her Ice Silkworm Pearl, hoping to summon him. When Shangguan Qiuyue, who had been secretly watching her, finally appeared after sensing her growing frustration, Chunhua, pretending to be abandoned, claimed Xiao Bai was foolish and incapable of protecting her, expressing a strong desire to return to Thousand Moon Cave with Shangguan Qiuyue.
Shangguan Qiuyue feigned difficulty with the knot, but Chunhua, amused, revealed it was a simple bow. He untied her, and they departed for Thousand Moon Cave. Upon arriving at Thousand Moon Cave, Chunhua sneezed and shivered from the cold, complaining that she was frozen awake and longed for a hot spring. Shangguan Qiuyue offered to send her back to Fengming Manor where Xiao Bai was, suggesting she could bathe in its hot spring.
Chunhua swiftly declined, insisting she was happiest only with Shangguan Qiuyue. She then subtly steered the conversation to Feng Caicai’s infectious poison, asking Shangguan Qiuyue to cure her and expressing trust that he would protect her from infection, despite the numerous poisons in Thousand Moon Cave. Shangguan Qiuyue, aware of her pretense, directly questioned her claims of not being cold.
Sensing her true discomfort, he enveloped her in his internal energy, warming her despite her continued insistence that she was not cold, revealing that he reserved this power only for her.
Episode 18 Recap
Following the tragic events of the immortality fruit auction, where Feng Caicai was poisoned by 'Dandelion' and Chun Hua suspected Autumn Moon was the true culprit, Chun Hua decided to return to Thousand Moon Cave with him to obtain the antidote. Although Autumn Moon knew she was feigning, he welcomed her back.
Meanwhile, Qin Liufeng and Xiao Bai discussed the recent immortality fruit auction, with Qin Liufeng expressing his bewilderment regarding Mr. Shi, who had seemingly orchestrated the demise of numerous orthodox sect members. Qin Liufeng elaborated on Mr. Shi's cunning manipulation of the situation, explaining how the allure of benefit could shatter even seemingly unified forces, as human hearts are susceptible to greed, anger, and obsession.
He questioned whether Mr. Shi truly possessed the immortality fruit or merely used its rumor to sow chaos. Qin Liufeng then presented Xiao Bai with a silver needle he found on one of Mr. Shi's puppet children. Xiao Bai immediately recognized its striking resemblance to the needles used by Medical Sage before his death, leading him to suspect Mr. Shi's involvement in the Medical Sage's demise.
Xiao Bai concluded that Mr. Shi was central to the intertwined mysteries of the immortality fruit, Medical Sage, and a specific mental cultivation method, pondering how a mere fruit could ever cure human greed. Chun Hua sat dejectedly, reflecting on the auction's brutal aftermath. Autumn Moon encouraged her to voice her feelings, assuring her it would bring comfort.
Chun Hua lamented the hypocrisy of the seemingly righteous old chiefs, who, despite their sanctimonious exteriors, revealed their true ugliness in their pursuit of the immortality fruit, ultimately leading to their deaths. Autumn Moon comforted her, urging her to forget these grim events as he would handle everything.
He cautioned her to be wary of those who rigidly categorize right and wrong, as they might harbor hidden darkness, but assured her she could remain innocent, as he would take care of all other matters. Chun Hua playfully commented on his exceptional skill at coaxing. Autumn Moon then teased her, suggesting she was quick to deny her actions after having taken liberties with him and jokingly asked if she would seek comfort from Xiao Bai next.
Autumn Moon observed that Chun Hua didn't always speak her true feelings. Chun Hua defended herself, claiming honesty, then subtly implied Autumn Moon might have been deceived by the auction's mastermind himself. Autumn Moon confidently dismissed this, stating no one was capable of fooling him, as he could easily discern human intentions and weaknesses.
When Chun Hua challenged him to elaborate, he used her current gaze as an example, playfully suggesting she was "greedy for his appearance," and explained that one could discern others' greed by their tone. Chun Hua, noting his profound insight, implied he must enjoy manipulating others, perhaps even organizing events like the recent auction.
Autumn Moon, without directly addressing her implication, changed the topic, suggesting they go outside to enjoy the sunlight, given Chun Hua's dislike for the cold of Thousand Moon Cave. Autumn Moon led Chun Hua to a surprisingly vibrant area within Thousand Moon Cave, filled with lotus flowers, meadows, and dandelions. Chun Hua expressed her delight and asked Autumn Moon which flower he preferred. He playfully responded that he only liked "Little Chunhua."
When he asked her in return, Chun Hua declared her fondness for wild dandelions, citing their strong vitality. She then subtly introduced the topic of a martial arts poison also named "Dandelion" and inquired if he possessed its antidote. Autumn Moon noted that only the poisoner would have such a remedy and directly asked if she suspected him. Chun Hua swiftly denied it, affirming her belief that creating such an antidote would be effortless for someone as capable as him.
Autumn Moon, acknowledging his prowess, confirmed that he could indeed create antidotes for even the most obscure poisons, which were all stored in his secret room. Chun Hua then eagerly asked when he might show her this room, to which he replied, "It depends on my mood." She attempted to improve his mood by praising his idyllic life, yet playfully added that it was a pity he hadn't found his true love.
Autumn Moon, feigning indifference, claimed Chun Hua was enough, but she retorted that he simply hadn't experienced true love. Chun Hua attempted to persuade Autumn Moon to abandon the conflicts beyond Thousand Moon Cave, suggesting he instead dedicate his time to finding a celestial maiden. Autumn Moon, noticing her indirectness, challenged her to be frank if she suspected him of orchestrating the auction.
Chun Hua admitted she did harbor initial suspicions, but then reminded him of his own words about how one's actions reflect their character. She explained that since her memory loss, despite his constant teasing, he had never truly harmed her and had repeatedly come to her rescue during dangerous situations. Thus, she had come to believe he was not someone who indiscriminately kills innocent people.
Autumn Moon then asked her what she would do if he truly had committed harmful acts. Chun Hua replied that she simply believed he would find greater happiness living a different kind of life. Autumn Moon then probed, asking if this "different life" would still include "Little Chunhua" by his side. Chun Hua observed Ye Yan carrying a beautifully presented tray and inquired about its contents.
Ye Yan curtly stated they were toxic pills and warned Chun Hua not to follow her. Chun Hua feigned compliance, claiming she was returning to her room, but secretly shadowed Ye Yan to discern the dual methods of opening a particular secret room. Once inside, Chun Hua discovered various potent substances, including "Mermaid's Tear" and "Body Corrosion Powder," and actively searched for the "Dandelion" antidote.
While she was inside, Chun Hua's Ice Silkworm Pearl glowed, causing the secret room door to open. Unbeknownst to her, Autumn Moon questioned a subordinate about Chun Hua's whereabouts, and upon hearing she had returned to her room, he calmly remarked that it was "good." Meanwhile, Chun Hua selected a bottle labeled "Three-day Intoxication," planning to use it to intoxicate Autumn Moon and extract information from him, acknowledging that she was employing a tactic she had learned from him.
As Chun Hua poured the "Three-day Intoxication" into a cup of wine, Autumn Moon suddenly appeared, causing her a moment of panic. She quickly covered her tracks and offered him the wine, claiming she prepared it because he seemed to be in high spirits. Autumn Moon took a seat, commenting on her kindness. Chun Hua toasted him, wishing him success in defeating the orthodox sects and unifying the martial arts world, and promised to accompany him when he achieved this.
Autumn Moon then asked her to feed him the wine. When Chun Hua awkwardly attempted to bring the cup to his lips, he stopped her, remarking that she was doing it wrong. He then took a mouthful of wine himself and, leaning in, transferred it to her with a kiss, leaving Chun Hua stunned. He then softly asked if being with him was a good thing, and Chun Hua, still in a daze, responded affirmatively.
Autumn Moon confronted Chun Hua, casually mentioning that a bottle of medicine was missing from his secret room and asking who dared to steal his "Three-day Intoxication." Chun Hua, feigning ignorance, denied any knowledge. Autumn Moon then revealed that the "Three-day Intoxication" had already been depleted, and he had replaced it with "Aphrodisiac." Hearing this, Chun Hua reacted with alarm and tried to make an excuse to leave. Autumn Moon stopped her, acknowledging that she attempted to drug him.
He clarified that while her intention wasn't to kill him, as she only sought "Three-day Intoxication" and not a lethal poison like arsenic, he admitted his utter confusion regarding her true motives and sincerity, confessing that her unpredictable nature was vexing. Chun Hua quickly denied any malice, explaining that she desperately needed the antidote for the "Dandelion" poison, even claiming she had originally intended to take arsenic. Autumn Moon, however, dismissed this notion, stating she wouldn't do such a thing.
Autumn Moon suspected she needed it for Xiao Bai, but Chun Hua swiftly corrected him, stating that she was poisoned by individuals from Fengming Manor and needed the antidote for herself. Upon hearing this, Autumn Moon immediately offered to cure her.
Episode 19 Recap
Chun Hua, seeking the Dandelion antidote, attempted to use Aphrodisiac to intoxicate Shangguan Qiuyue. She revealed she had secretly switched the previous 'Three-day Intoxication' potion for aphrodisiac, hoping to glean information. She then claimed Fengming Manor had poisoned her with a secret Xiao family toxin, stating that if anyone took advantage of her, the poison would flare up and infect them. Shangguan Qiuyue, unaffected by her ruse, responded with a kiss, asserting that only he could take advantage of her.
He then gave Chun Hua the Dandelion antidote, instructing her to leave. He expressed his intention to change his way of life as she had suggested, wondering if she would be part of the happy future he envisioned. Chun Hua, who had just described the essence of love to Qiuyue, found her thoughts drifting to Shangguan Qiuyue instead of Xiao Bai.
As Shangguan Qiuyue turned to depart, he pondered if Chun Hua would truly be by his side in the new life he was about to embrace. Chun Hua returned to Fengming Manor with the antidote, urgently trying to save Feng Caicai. Leng Ning expressed strong skepticism, questioning the antidote's mysterious origin and suggesting it might harm Feng Caicai, as even Dr. Bu was helpless.
Despite initial doubts, Xiao Bai put his trust in Chun Hua, momentarily immobilizing Leng Ning and urging Chun Hua to administer the antidote. Leng Ning clarified that her distrust wasn't aimed at Chun Hua, but at the unknown individual who provided the medicine. Chun Hua, realizing Shangguan Qiuyue was the source, began to worry about his intentions and blamed herself for trusting him.
To everyone's relief, Feng Caicai quickly recovered after taking the antidote, causing Chun Hua to cry tears of joy. Chun Hua thanked Xiao Bai for his trust, but he confessed that he had not entirely trusted her either, only believing she wouldn't intentionally harm Feng Caicai. When Xiao Bai pressed her about the antidote's source, Chun Hua hesitantly claimed she bought it from a pharmacy.
Xiao Bai remained unconvinced until Qin Liufeng unexpectedly appeared with an identical antidote, also purchased from a pharmacy, which forced Xiao Bai to accept Chun Hua's explanation. It was later revealed that after Chun Hua left, Shangguan Qiuyue had ordered Mr. Shi to distribute the Dandelion antidote to all major pharmacies, falsely propagating that the antidote was derived from the leaves of the immortality fruit. Chun Hua dreamt of her wedding, but to her confusion, Shangguan Qiuyue was the groom.
She tried to rationalize this by telling herself that her recent ordeal of stealing the antidote and being confused by Shangguan Qiuyue was the cause, hoping that marrying Xiao Bai would resolve these unsettling thoughts. Qin Liufeng proposed a trip to Lingshan Mountain after Feng Caicai’s full recovery, but Chun Hua promptly dismissed the idea, stating that Xiao Bai was far too busy. Xiao Bai, touched by her consideration, unconsciously smiled.
Qin Liufeng then playfully tested Xiao Bai and Chun Hua’s compatibility by asking them to simultaneously name Xiao Bai’s top concern. Xiao Bai said "immortality fruit," while Chun Hua blurted out "wedding." Embarrassed, Chun Hua quickly clarified that she meant the wedding was less important than finding the immortality fruit.
To resolve the ongoing issue of the elusive immortality fruit and prevent further chaos and deaths, Chun Hua suggested creating a fake, never-before-seen item to pass off as the fruit, then publicly destroying it. Qin Liufeng expressed skepticism about her ability to produce such a unique item. Confident in her knowledge as a time-traveler, Chun Hua then prepared various dishes like fried chicken, sushi, and steamed cake.
To her dismay, Xiao Bai and Qin Liufeng recognized them from ancient texts like "Records and Maps of the World," dampening Chun Hua's spirits. Xiao Bai, however, reassured her, highlighting her remarkable talent despite their familiarity with the items from books. Feng Caicai and Leng Ning joined them. Qin Liufeng enthusiastically offered Chun Hua's newly created dishes to Leng Ning. Feng Caicai expressed her admiration for Chun Hua's resourcefulness.
After a discussion, they collectively decided to use a walnut as the imposter immortality fruit, metaphorically "calling a deer a horse." With everyone's combined effort, the counterfeit immortality fruit was meticulously crafted. Reflecting on the previous tacit understanding test and feeling he had overlooked Chun Hua, Xiao Bai proposed to her, promising a grand wedding ceremony as an apology. Chun Hua's face lit up with joy upon hearing his proposal.
Qin Liufeng, seeking Chun Hua to discuss the storage of the fake immortality fruit, arrived just as Xiao Bai and Chun Hua were celebrating their engagement. Chun Hua excitedly announced their impending marriage to Qin Liufeng, who offered his congratulations and playfully teased Xiao Bai. Qin Liufeng then discreetly pulled Chun Hua aside, entrusting her with the fake immortality fruit for safekeeping.
He explained his decision, noting the presence of many spies around Xiao Bai, Leng Ning's simplicity, Feng Caicai's recent illness, and Chun Hua's upcoming role as Xiao Bai's fiancée, making her the most trustworthy choice. Chun Hua appeared hesitant but accepted the responsibility. Wedding invitations for Chun Hua and Xiao Bai's marriage, scheduled in ten days, were dispatched to major martial arts sects. Chief Leng arrived under the guise of offering congratulations but secretly sought information about the immortality fruit.
This interaction prompted Xiao Bai to realize the need for a public destruction of the immortality fruit, requiring a gathering of all major sects under a suitable pretext. Feng Caicai ingeniously suggested using Xiao Bai and Chun Hua’s wedding as the perfect occasion. Fu Lou received Xiao Bai's wedding invitation. Observing Lady You Si's heartfelt desire to send congratulations, he agreed to send a gift.
Lady You Si then earnestly tried to persuade Fu Lou to abandon his pursuit of the immortality fruit, expressing her wish for them to simply spend their lives together, continuing into the next. Fu Lou promised to fulfill her wish. Meanwhile, Shangguan Qiuyue secluded himself in his secret room, lost in thoughts of Chun Hua. Star Chief Ye then arrived to report that Fengming Manor would host Xiao Bai and Chun Hua's wedding in ten days. Upon hearing this news, a furious Shangguan Qiuyue began to smash everything in the room and drank heavily, enraged that Chun Hua would marry without his consent.
Episode 20 Recap
As the wedding preparations are underway, Xiao Bai, Qin Liufeng, and Leng Ning busy themselves decorating with character "xi" papers. Qin Liufeng initiates a conversation about the immortality fruit and then confesses his feelings to Leng Ning, stating his belief that a lifetime with a beloved is superior to an eternal life without love.
He asks if she would allow him to accompany her, but Leng Ning, shyly deflecting, playfully remarks that he is too wonderful and is merely in the way between her and Feng Caicai. Later, burdened by guilt over his deception, Xiao Bai seeks out Chunhua, who is looking troubled while embroidering a handkerchief, a bridal custom. She shows him a pearl, comparing it to the immortality fruit, noting that their acquaintance began because of the very fruit.
When Xiao Bai asks what she would do with a real immortality fruit, Chunhua surprisingly says she would give it to Lady You Si. Xiao Bai immediately dismisses this, associating Lady You Si with Fu Lou and the evil sect, but Chunhua passionately defends her.
She describes Lady You Si as innocent and beautiful, like a pearl protected by Fu Lou, and insightfully explains that if Lady You Si were gone, Fu Lou would truly be possessed, implying his current state is due to a profound emptiness. As Xiao Bai attempts to confess his real plan to Chunhua, a sudden, inexplicable gust of wind blows, tangling Chunhua's hair.
Xiao Bai reaches out to gently fix it, but an unseen force strikes his hand, causing him to accidentally slap Chunhua across the face. Both are stunned. Qin Liufeng, passing by, comments on his frequent intrusion into awkward situations. Xiao Bai, mistakenly thinking Qin Liufeng caused the mishap, angrily pulls him aside. Outside, Qin Liufeng jokes about Xiao Bai being fickle, having just been with Chunhua and now coming to him.
Xiao Bai quickly dismisses this and admits his profound guilt over deceiving Chunhua. He confesses he tried but failed to reveal his true plan because Chunhua's eagerness to marry him made him fear she would doubt his sincerity if he told her the truth.
Xiao Bai then explains his true intentions: he decided to host a grand wedding as an elaborate excuse to gather all major sects and publicly destroy the immortality fruit, believing its existence was the root cause of the widespread chaos and inner demons in the Wulin. Qin Liufeng advises him that a clear conscience is enough. However, Xiao Bai, frustrated, retorts that Qin Liufeng, having never experienced love, wouldn't understand, leaving Qin Liufeng feeling unexpectedly hurt.
After Xiao Bai departs, Chunhua discovers a piece of ice under the table, realizing that the person who struck Xiao Bai's hand was not Qin Liufeng, but Shangguan Qiuyue. As her wedding approaches, Chunhua struggles to sleep, tormented by thoughts of Shangguan Qiuyue. She rises to wash her face, hoping to clear her mind, only to see Shangguan Qiuyue's reflection in the mirror.
She questions her "Mr. Right" premise, wondering if Xiao Bai truly is her destined one simply because he was the first man she saw. Meanwhile, Shangguan Qiuyue, visibly troubled and drinking, discusses the common wedding tradition of using red decorations, deeming them tacky. His subordinate, Ye Xingzhu, defends the custom, stating red symbolizes festivity and happiness for brides. Shangguan Qiuyue then asks if Ye Xingzhu, as a woman, has a beloved.
Ye Xingzhu deflects, asserting her identity solely as a subordinate. Shangguan Qiuyue, however, reveals he knows Ye Xingzhu is injured and implies a lifelong commitment, then orders her to report every detail of Little Chunhua's wedding. Later, Gu Xingzhu notices Ye Xingzhu's injuries and expresses concern and frustration that she must still go out for tasks so late. Gu Xingzhu also detects the scent of "Three-day Intoxication" on Ye Xingzhu, inquiring if Shangguan Qiuyue has been drinking frequently.
Dressed in her red bridal attire, Chunhua joyfully admires herself in the mirror, wondering if she is dreaming. Feng Caicai arrives, offering heartfelt blessings and praising Chunhua as the most beautiful bride. Xiao Bai then enters, intending to finally tell Chunhua the truth. However, Chunhua, overcome with happiness, playfully interrupts him.
She commands him to sit, tells him to say he likes her, and teases him about his former shyness and distance, how he used to blush and use his sword to keep her away. She cuts him off repeatedly, confidently asserting that she knows he will be good to her for life.
Unable to speak past her joyous interruptions, Xiao Bai silently clasps Chunhua's hands, internally wishing she would not blame him for his concealment and hoping their wedding would finally put an end to all their troubles, allowing them everlasting peace. At the wedding ceremony, amidst congratulations from the gathered Wulin heroes, Xiao Bai begins to speak, announcing a matter unrelated to the wedding.
He explains that the immortality fruit has plunged the Wulin into chaos and bloodshed, and as the leader of Fengming Manor, he cannot remain indifferent. He then declares that he has obtained the immortality fruit and will destroy it publicly, believing its existence would only lead to endless problems. The revelation shocks the assembly, who vehemently protest its destruction.
Chunhua's smile slowly fades as she grasps the true purpose of the elaborate wedding and confronts Xiao Bai, questioning if the entire ceremony was merely a pretense for the immortality fruit. Xiao Bai remains silent. At the same time, in another location, Lady You Si meticulously arranges flowers, unusually selecting withered branches over blooming ones. She explains her philosophy of giving vulnerable flowers a second life and wonders if her wedding gift for Chunhua and Xiao Bai has arrived.
Just then, Shangguan Qiuyue calmly walks into the wedding hall. Xiao Bai, enraged, assumes Shangguan Qiuyue is there for the immortality fruit, but Shangguan Qiuyue dismisses the idea as ridiculous, stating he finds it more amusing to watch them make fools of themselves. He swiftly pulls Chunhua into his arms. Xiao Bai draws his Fengming Sword, preparing to unleash its powerful "Powerful Thunderbolt" technique, demanding Shangguan Qiuyue release Chunhua.
Shangguan Qiuyue warns him that using such a potent move would harm Chunhua, causing Xiao Bai to hesitate. Shangguan Qiuyue then declares the wedding cannot proceed. A terrified Chunhua, realizing his intent to disrupt her special day, looks at him in horror. Xiao Bai, still fixated on the immortality fruit, demands to know why Shangguan Qiuyue interferes with his wife.
Shangguan Qiuyue scoffs, stating that Xiao Bai can destroy his immortality fruit, but he has come to retrieve his "Little Chunhua." He then publicly exposes Chunhua as Hua Xiaolei, revealing she has a bud-like birthmark on her clavicle, and shockingly claims that despite her long-standing engagement with Xiao Bai, she had already "slept" with him. Xiao Bai is left dumbfounded by the bombshell.
Chunhua, on the verge of breakdown, desperately cries out to Xiao Bai that she is just Chunhua, not Hua Xiaolei. Shangguan Qiuyue, ignoring her plea, asserts that she cannot marry anyone without his permission and declares his intention to take her back to Thousand Moon Cave, before sweeping her up and departing. He mentally recites a poem about a phoenix seeking its mate, lamenting that failure to be together brings ruin.
As Xiao Bai attempts to pursue them, he is immediately blocked by the various Wulin sects, who relentlessly demand he hand over the immortality fruit. Despite his attempts to postpone the discussion, they insist on having it immediately. Furious, Xiao Bai warns them, asking who among them dares to face the true Xiaoxiao Fengming Swordsmanship, and fiercely repels them with his blade. A sudden, heavy rain begins to fall.
Xiao Bai, utterly heartbroken, uses his sword to tear Chunhua's bridal veil into shreds. Meanwhile, Shangguan Qiuyue carries a distraught Chunhua away, welcoming her "home" to Thousand Moon Cave. Chunhua protests, asserting that Thousand Moon Cave is not her home, and accuses Shangguan Qiuyue of humiliating both her and Xiao Bai, pushing her into despair. Shangguan Qiuyue, however, justifies his actions by claiming he is merely helping her "cut losses in time" and sever ties with Fengming Manor. Chunhua tearfully questions why he consistently seeks to separate her from Xiao Bai.
Episode 21 Recap
Xiao Bai's wedding was abruptly interrupted by Shangguan Qiuyue, who dramatically appeared to claim Miss Chunhua, formerly known as Hua Xiaolei, as his own, asserting that she had slept with him. Qiuyue declared that while Xiao Bai could destroy the immortality fruit, he would take "Little Chunhua," severing her ties with Fengming Manor. After her abduction, Qiuyue noted that Chunhua preferred to believe in destiny rather than trust her own judgment.
He dismissed her view of love, offering to put her feelings to the test. Chunhua vehemently rejected his advances, seeing him only as a "damned devil brother" or the one who eloped with her, even threatening to make him into a puppet if he continued to bother her. Qiuyue promised to grant her wishes if she stayed in Thousand Moon Cave, even if it meant his death. Following the chaotic wedding, Qin Liufeng and Xiao Bai were seen training.
Xiao Bai, preoccupied with worry for Chunhua, was not at his best. Chief Leng arrived to report that Shangguan Qiuyue had become aware of their plans, necessitating a temporary halt to the operation to rescue Chunhua. Chief Leng also questioned Qin Liufeng about his detailed knowledge of a scar on Chunhua’s body, subtly hinting at an intimate relationship with either Chunhua or Xiao Bai. Qin Liufeng skillfully deflected, asserting his deep camaraderie with Xiao Bai.
Despite the abduction, Xiao Bai remained resolute in his priority: the destruction of the immortality fruit, though Chief Leng reminded him that the real fruit was not in their possession. Qin Liufeng then explained that Lingyang, Chief Leng's hidden operative within Thousand Moon Cave, who owed Chief Leng a life debt, could only be summoned by a specific flute melody, thus outlining their rescue strategy.
Simultaneously, within Thousand Moon Cave, Star Deputy Chief Gu reported the approaching siege by various sects, warning that Chunhua's presence would escalate conflict with Fengming Manor. However, Star Deputy Chief Ye reprimanded him, confident in Qiuyue’s arrangements. Star Deputy Chief Ye explained that the immortality fruit incident had severely weakened the righteous Wulin sects, leaving only Thousand Moon Cave and Legend Valley unharmed. He suggested that capturing Chunhua could shift the balance of power.
Qiuyue mused that while Star Deputy Chief Ye's understanding was astute, Chunhua was not merely a chess piece. Qiuyue later invited Chunhua to play chess, likening them to chess pieces. He conveyed his desire to be with her, yet acknowledged that this only caused her more pain, admitting they were fundamentally different. When Chunhua asked him what he truly intended, Qiuyue clenched his fists, confessing he did not know.
Meanwhile, Star Deputy Chief Ye discovered a strong poison in Chunhua's food and promptly reported it to Qiuyue. Later, while Chunhua ate, Qiuyue joined her, making light remarks about her sharp tongue. He even offered her chopsticks, a gesture she initially misinterpreted as a threat, only to realize he was merely trying to be polite. Chunhua had a disturbing dream where Xiao Bai killed Qiuyue during her rescue.
She awoke with tears, startled and strangely saddened by the thought of Qiuyue’s death, immediately reminding herself that Xiao Bai was her true husband. Chunhua, anxious about her situation, spent seven days waiting for Xiao Bai to rescue her. During this time, she received a note and attempted to draw a map from its instructions. Qiuyue appeared, took the map, and ridiculed her poor drawing skills, claiming he already remembered the layout of Thousand Moon Cave.
Subsequently, Lingyang, Chief Leng's hidden operative within Thousand Moon Cave, attempted to kill her. Qiuyue intervened just in time, saving Chunhua by killing the spy. He then revealed a letter from Xiao Bai, demanding the return of the immortality fruit, which upset Chunhua deeply. She realized that Qiuyue had been protecting her all along, even swapping out her poisoned food.
Heartbroken by Xiao Bai's apparent betrayal, Chunhua demanded to return to Fengming Manor for clarification, but Qiuyue knocked her unconscious, murmuring that he wished to grant her freedom while ensuring her safety. Unbeknownst to Fengming Manor, Qiuyue heard the distinct flute tune that summoned Lingyang, immediately ordering an investigation into the piper. Back at Fengming Manor, Xiao Bai received Lingyang's jade pendant.
Chief Leng, concerned that Lingyang's death might expose his order to kill Chunhua, attempted to manipulate Xiao Bai, implying that Chunhua herself had leaked information and was somehow connected to Qiuyue. Qin Liufeng defended Chunhua, but Xiao Bai insisted he would only believe it if he heard it from Chunhua herself. To prevent any further abduction attempts, Qiuyue tied Chunhua with Icy Silk, claiming it was for her "safe freedom."
Chunhua scoffed at the idea and attempted to tear off the silk, injuring herself in the process. Qiuyue gently tended to her wound and shared a story from his childhood, reassuring her that he would never harm her. Despite his efforts, Chunhua remained resolute, expressing her desire to return to Xiao Bai. Qiuyue later showed Chunhua a fake immortality fruit, mocking her for believing it was real and stating it was only good for deceiving old men.
He also playfully warned her not to be "naughty" and prevented her from sleeping in her usual spot. Qiuyue eventually sent this fake immortality fruit to Xiao Bai. Leng Ning, upon seeing it, suspected that Chunhua had revealed its falsity to Qiuyue. However, Qin Liufeng reasoned that Qiuyue likely knew it was a fake all along, pointing out that Thousand Moon Cave was the only faction unaffected by the real fruit's devastating consequences.
Observing this developing situation, Feng Caicai questioned why Qiuyue had abducted Chunhua in the first place, to which Leng Ning sarcastically suggested it was an uncontrollable act of love. Xiao Bai, enraged, clutched his Fengming Sword, his determination to rescue Chunhua burning fiercely. In a tense moment, as Chunhua was combing her hair, Qiuyue offered to help, but she sharply rebuffed him. Their conversation quickly turned to her past as Hua Xiaolei.
Qiuyue feigned forgetfulness about their previous encounters, claiming he only remembered her initiating contact and his fondness for a particular birthmark, but not for "Hua Xiaolei" herself. He then distinguished Chunhua from her former identity, swearing he would treat Chunhua well and urging her not to sow discord. Chunhua accused him of never truly liking Hua Xiaolei if he allowed her to marry Xiao Bai for a cultivation method.
She asserted that he treated her like a mere pet and that she desired to marry Xiao Bai, not him. She directly confronted him, asking if he had brought her to Thousand Moon Cave intending to kill her, to which he simply replied that he merely wished to prevent her marriage to Xiao Bai.
Episode 22 Recap
During a practice session, Qin Liufeng easily defeated Xiao Bai, observing that Xiao Bai was preoccupied. Xiao Bai admitted his deep concern for Chunhua. Soon after, Chief Leng arrived, relaying a message from Lingyang that Shangguan Qiuyue had detected their activities, necessitating the suspension of Chunhua's rescue operation. Despite the warning, Xiao Bai expressed an urgent desire to save Chunhua. Later that night, Qin Liufeng and Xiao Bai attempted to locate the entrance to Thousand Moon Cave.
They searched thoroughly but could not find it, noting the complex terrain and that no one could enter without guidance. Qin Liufeng, observing Xiao Bai's agitation, advised him to return to Fengming Manor to await further news. Meanwhile, Shangguan Qiuyue was fully aware that Chunhua was searching for messages hidden in her meals. Star Deputy Chief Gu reported that various sects that had attempted to besiege Thousand Moon Cave had been defeated, though many still lingered in the vicinity.
Star Deputy Chief Gu expressed concern that Chunhua's presence would directly provoke Fengming Manor and be disadvantageous to Thousand Moon Cave. However, Star Deputy Chief Ye silenced him, asserting that Shangguan Qiuyue had his own plans. Shangguan Qiuyue then questioned Star Deputy Chief Ye about his understanding of these plans. Star Deputy Chief Ye analyzed the current Wulin landscape, pointing out that the immortality fruit incident had severely crippled orthodox sects, yet Thousand Moon Cave and Legend Valley remained unscathed.
He proposed that abducting Chunhua could be a strategic move to alter the Wulin's power balance. Shangguan Qiuyue acknowledged Star Deputy Chief Ye’s insightful interpretation but then softly stated that Chunhua was not a mere pawn; she was his sister. Chunhua discovered another note in her meal, but before she could read it, Shangguan Qiuyue appeared. He invited her to play Go, using the black and white pieces to represent them.
He described how the black piece, despite its efforts to be with the white piece, only caused the white piece more pain because they were fundamentally different. Chunhua then asked if the black piece knew what to do. Shangguan Qiuyue, clenching his fists, admitted he did not know. Later, Star Deputy Chief Ye reported to Shangguan Qiuyue that Chunhua's morning rice contained a potent poison.
Shangguan Qiuyue interrogated the Moon Servant who delivered the meal but quickly deduced the poison's origin was the kitchen, not the servant herself. He then ordered the Moon Servant executed. Chunhua dreamed that Xiao Bai came to rescue her but killed Shangguan Qiuyue in the process. She woke up abruptly, tears in her eyes, surprised and saddened by Shangguan Qiuyue's death. She reminded herself that Xiao Bai was her true husband.
Acting on the information from the note, Chunhua went to meet Lingyang, only to discover he intended to kill her. Fortunately, Shangguan Qiuyue arrived in time, saving Chunhua and killing Lingyang. He then showed Chunhua a letter from Xiao Bai, which instructed Lingyang to retrieve the immortality fruit, revealing Xiao Bai's intent to harm her. Chunhua realized that Shangguan Qiuyue had saved her by replacing her poisoned meal.
Deeply distressed by Xiao Bai’s apparent betrayal, she wished to return to Fengming Manor to demand an explanation. However, Shangguan Qiuyue rendered her unconscious, quietly vowing to grant Chunhua freedom while ensuring her safety. Meanwhile, Xiao Bai received Lingyang’s jade pendant. Chief Leng, having learned of Lingyang's death, feared that his plot to kill Chunhua would be exposed.
He attempted to manipulate Xiao Bai by suggesting that Chunhua might have revealed Lingyang's identity, implying a connection between Chunhua and Shangguan Qiuyue. Qin Liufeng defended Chunhua, but Xiao Bai insisted he would only believe the truth if he heard it directly from Chunhua. Shangguan Qiuyue secured Chunhua with Icy Silk, explaining it would ensure her "safe freedom" within Thousand Moon Cave and prevent her abduction by outsiders.
Chunhua scoffed at this notion of freedom, questioning if tying someone to oneself constituted freedom. She took a Go piece, pondering her life, and then tried to tear off the Icy Silk in front of Shangguan Qiuyue, injuring herself. Shangguan Qiuyue carefully treated her wound and recounted a story from his lonely childhood, assuring her that he would never harm her. Despite his efforts, Chunhua reiterated her desire to leave Thousand Moon Cave and return to Xiao Bai.
Shangguan Qiuyue later sent a fake immortality fruit to Xiao Bai. Leng Ning suspected that Chunhua had informed Shangguan Qiuyue that the fruit was fake. However, Qin Liufeng disagreed, suggesting that Shangguan Qiuyue likely already knew the truth, noting that of all the sects, only Thousand Moon Cave had remained untouched by the severe casualties caused by the immortality fruit incident. Leng Ning commented on Shangguan Qiuyue’s actions, implying his abduction of Chunhua was due to uncontrollable emotions.
Xiao Bai, angered, tightly gripped his Fengming Saber, determined to find Chunhua as quickly as possible and uncover the full truth. As Chunhua combed her hair, Shangguan Qiuyue offered to help. Chunhua sharply rebuffed him, remarking that people would mock her if the Chief of Thousand Moon Cave combed her hair. She then challenged him, asking why he didn’t simply kill her, questioning if she still held some value he could exploit.
Episode 23 Recap
Within Thousand Moon Cave, Chunhua questioned Autumn Moon's intentions, asking if he still wished to use her. Autumn Moon assured her of her freedom and safety, asserting that chaining someone to his will was not true liberty. He explained that his initial desire for the mental cultivation method, which led him to mistake her for Hua Xiaolei, was now irrelevant since Xiao Bai had mastered the final movement of the Fengming Swordsmanship.
Autumn Moon stated his sole intention was to protect her for life. Chunhua, however, rejected his protection, begging him to release her. Autumn Moon questioned her unwavering trust in Xiao Bai, especially since Xiao Bai had tried to kill her even within Thousand Moon Cave, warning that returning would lead to her demise. Chunhua declared her faith in Xiao Bai, calling him the man she recognized at first sight and the one who could give her true love.
Autumn Moon, frustrated by her stubbornness, called her choice a "wrong path." Chunhua then returned the Icy Silkworm Beads to Autumn Moon, stating that they were no longer children and it was time for them to find their own paths. Witnessing her resolve, Autumn Moon accepted the beads, noting that they had seen her dependence on him, and bid her farewell. Autumn Moon then unbound the icy silkworm threads and released her.
Chunhua left the beads with him, fighting back tears as she departed. After leaving the cave, Chunhua found herself disoriented, unable to locate the entrance from which she had previously been led. She pondered whether Xiao Bai truly wished her dead, considering the attempts on her life through poisoning and assassins, and resolved to return to Fengming Manor to seek clarification. Upon Chunhua's return to Fengming Manor, Xiao Bai was overjoyed and rushed to greet her.
Chunhua, however, was distant and immediately angered by his suspicion when he questioned her relationship with Autumn Moon. She confronted him, acknowledging that Autumn Moon had indeed sent her to steal the mental cultivation method and had seen Hua Xiaolei's birthmark, and that Autumn Moon had released her willingly. Chunhua challenged Xiao Bai, asking if he now thought she had tarnished Fengming Manor's reputation, prompting him to send assassins after her when he couldn't find her.
Xiao Bai vehemently denied any such intention, assuring her he had only wished to rescue her and had believed her all along, waiting anxiously for her to return and tell the truth. He posited that perhaps Hua Xiaolei had shown Autumn Moon her scar, but it was not the current Chunhua who had lost her memories.
Xiao Bai then asked if Autumn Moon had threatened her into stealing the mental cultivation method and obeying his commands, and if she had given him the true method. Chunhua confirmed she had given Autumn Moon a fake mental cultivation method, which brought a visible wave of relief to Xiao Bai. He apologized for not realizing she was threatened sooner and letting her suffer alone.
Chunhua believed Xiao Bai had not ordered her death but remained puzzled as to who had. Meanwhile, Leng Ning and Feng Caicai speculated on Chunhua's return. Leng Ning suspected Chunhua had returned with a hidden agenda, believing her connection with Autumn Moon was complex, especially since the spy attempting to kill Chunhua had died. Feng Caicai, however, maintained that Chunhua's matters should be left for Xiao Bai to decide.
Leng Ning directly questioned Feng Caicai if she believed Chunhua and Autumn Moon had an affair, reminding her that Chunhua was the one who provided the antidote when Feng Caicai was poisoned, an antidote that later became widespread. After a moment of silence, Feng Caicai acknowledged Chunhua had saved her life and stated that Chunhua's affairs would henceforth only concern Xiao Bai. Later, Xiao Bai discussed the situation with Qin Liufeng.
Xiao Bai admitted he was unsure if Chunhua and Autumn Moon had an affair but personally believed they did not, and that Chunhua had not wronged Fengming Manor. Qin Liufeng noted the sudden proliferation of the dandelion antidote, leading Xiao Bai to suspect that if both the immortality fruit leaf and the antidote originated from Thousand Moon Cave, Autumn Moon was indeed interested in the immortality fruit.
Xiao Bai shared Chunhua's account that Lingyang had attempted to harm her in Thousand Moon Cave, emphasizing Chunhua would not lie. As Qin Liufeng was close to Chief Leng, Xiao Bai sought his insight into Lingyang's motives. Qin Liufeng suggested that Lingyang, though loyal to Chief Leng, might have acted on his own initiative. Chunhua sought out Xiao Bai, only to find him, Qin Liufeng, and two others deeply engrossed in a discussion.
Her appearance brought an immediate silence, making her feel awkward. She tried to leave, but Xiao Bai urged her to stay, and Feng Caicai explained they were discussing the immortality fruit. Still sensing the uncomfortable atmosphere, Chunhua left. Qin Liufeng followed her, attempting to reassure her. Chunhua expressed her sadness at feeling like an "embarrassing presence." Qin Liufeng attempted to comfort her by calling her Xiao Bai's future wife, but Chunhua reminded him they had never been formally married.
Qin Liufeng assured her that marriage was inevitable, but emphasized that as the Alliance Leader's wife, she would face greater responsibilities and sacrifices. Chunhua fell silent. Meanwhile, Lady You Si's health continued to decline, causing Fu Lou great distress in his desperate search for the immortality fruit. Autumn Moon, seizing the opportunity, instructed Star Deputy Chief Ye to spread the news of Lady You Si's critical condition.
Autumn Moon had been monitoring Chunhua through Star Deputy Chief Ye, and to ensnare Fu Lou, he devised the "Guilty Confession Letter" scheme. This plan stipulated that anyone wishing to obtain the immortality fruit must publicly confess their sins to the world. Autumn Moon had Mr. Shi disseminate this information, strategically placing Fengming Manor as the official host for the public confession, lending it an air of legitimacy.
Upon learning of the scheme, Xiao Bai considered it acceptable if it could inspire people to embrace good. Chunhua immediately recognized the "Guilty Confession Letter" as a trap designed to lure Fu Lou. She argued that regardless of whether the immortality fruit was real or fake, Fu Lou would undoubtedly fall for it to save his beloved wife. However, Xiao Bai did not agree to halt the plan.
Chunhua, wishing to seek Autumn Moon's help but having left her Icy Silkworm Beads in Thousand Moon Cave, found herself in a dilemma. Just as she fretted, Autumn Moon unexpectedly appeared, acupunctured her, and playfully chided her for always turning to him in emergencies. He then returned the Icy Silkworm Beads, warning her not to take them off again. Chunhua then pleaded with Autumn Moon to take her to Legend Valley to find Fu Lou.
Autumn Moon, stating he never did good deeds, agreed to her request solely because it came from her. Autumn Moon expressed curiosity about Chunhua's deep affection for Lady You Si. Chunhua explained the profound love between Fu Lou and Lady You Si, describing it as the kind of love she would sacrifice even immortality to attain. She then implored Autumn Moon not to harm Fu Lou and Lady You Si.
Autumn Moon stated there was no need for violence, explaining that knowing a person's weakness made them easy to deal with. Chunhua then remarked that Autumn Moon himself seemed to have no weaknesses. To this, Autumn Moon revealed that Chunhua was, in fact, his weakness, and warned her to be careful. Autumn Moon then took Chunhua to meet Fu Lou. Upon seeing them, Fu Lou immediately accused Autumn Moon of spreading the news about the immortality fruit.
Autumn Moon, after a brief exchange, offered Chunhua to Fu Lou, suggesting that Fu Lou could use Chunhua, Xiao Bai's fiancée, as leverage to exchange for the immortality fruit at the upcoming meeting at Fengming Manor.
Episode 24 Recap
Shangguan Qiuyue brought Chunhua to Legend Valley to meet with Fu Lou and Lady You Si. He instructed Fu Lou to treat Chunhua kindly, which made Fu Lou question Shangguan Qiuyue's true intentions for Chunhua. Shangguan Qiuyue clarified that while he genuinely cared for Chunhua, his concern was not as deep as Fu Lou's for Lady You Si.
Shangguan Qiuyue then revealed his plan: he would send a message to Fengming Manor, informing them that their Junior Leader’s fiancée, Chunhua, was a guest in Legend Valley, hinting at a potential exchange for the immortality fruit. Star Deputy Chief Gu appeared, discussing Shangguan Qiuyue's intricate plan.
He explained that by designing the Guilty Confession Letter and the immortality fruit scheme, which required individuals to disclose their crimes to obtain the fruit, Shangguan Qiuyue intended to ensnare Fu Lou, who desperately needed the fruit for Lady You Si. Once Fengming Manor received Fu Lou's "guilty confession," they would be compelled to eliminate him. While this might initially boost Fengming Manor's reputation, it would also cost them public support.
Furthermore, if Xiao Bai were responsible for Fu Lou's death, Chunhua would never forgive him. Star Deputy Chief Gu concluded that with Legend Valley's subsequent collapse, Thousand Moon Cave would unify the Star Moon Sect. Star Deputy Chief Ye interjected, reminding Star Deputy Chief Gu of the Thousand Moon Cave's primary rule: never to speculate on the Chief's motives. Star Deputy Chief Gu grew visibly annoyed by Star Deputy Chief Ye's unwavering loyalty to Shangguan Qiuyue.
Lady You Si and Chunhua conversed, with Lady You Si recalling how Shangguan Qiuyue abducted Chunhua from her wedding, leading her to suspect genuine feelings between them. Chunhua then asked Lady You Si if she yearned for immortality. Lady You Si shared her deep love story with Fu Lou, revealing how he endured immense hardship, rising from a low-ranking disciple to the Valley Chief of Legend Valley, all for her.
She had always believed his promise not to kill and cherished their loving relationship above all else, even contrasting it with unloving couples who spend a lifetime together. Chunhua, deeply moved, questioned if she could achieve such unreserved love by forsaking immortality and if her relationship with Xiao Bai was truly as pure.
Lady You Si playfully remarked that both Xiao Bai and Shangguan Qiuyue possessed their unique charms, then advised Chunhua to understand love by observing what both she and her beloved were willing to choose and sacrifice. As time passed, Lady You Si grew increasingly worried about Fu Lou's continued absence, fearing he might have jeopardized his life for her.
Meanwhile, Shangguan Qiuyue, after sending a note to Chunhua’s room, mused to his subordinate that Xiao Bai, being prudent, wouldn't easily engage in a full-scale conflict with Legend Valley. He reasoned that with Lady You Si ailing and Chunhua by her side, Fu Lou would be desperate, making their scheme involving the Guilty Confession Letter, the complex relationships, and friendships, much more compelling.
Soon after, Feng Caicai informed Xiao Bai that Chunhua was missing, kidnapped by Legend Valley, who demanded the immortality fruit in exchange. Leng Ning, frustrated, lamented Chunhua’s frequent kidnappings. Xiao Bai was torn, grappling with the dilemma. He viewed exchanging the immortality fruit for Chunhua as a personal act, whereas Fu Lou’s pursuit of the fruit through a Guilty Confession Letter was a matter of Wulin justice.
He felt Fengming Manor had already suffered a loss of face once and could not afford another. Reassuring himself that Chunhua was likely safe due to her friendship with Lady You Si, Xiao Bai acknowledged the immense pressure of his position as Alliance Leader. Just then, Chief Leng arrived, bringing with him Lady You Si.
Chief Leng declared his intention to use Lady You Si as bait to trap Fu Lou, despite Leng Ning's protestations that Lady You Si was a weak, sick woman. Chief Leng sternly rebuked his daughter, stating she did not understand the dangers of the Wulin world, asserting that anyone associated with a "devil" like Fu Lou could not be good.
Feng Caicai, upon seeing Lady You Si's frail state, agreed, surmising that Lady You Si must have been severely tortured by Fu Lou. When Lady You Si regained consciousness, Qin Liufeng deceitfully told her that Fengming Manor had invited her and Fu Lou as guests. Believing Chunhua had brought her there, Lady You Si trustingly accepted their hospitality. Qin Liufeng expressed surprise at Lady You Si's naivety and privately felt shame about resorting to kidnapping a frail woman.
Xiao Bai, however, accepted the situation as a fait accompli and decided to send a letter to Fu Lou. Leng Ning, disturbed by her father's ruthless actions, was comforted by Feng Caicai, who explained that the Wulin world was treacherous, often necessitating desperate measures. Feng Caicai also noted that Lady You Si seemed deeply in love with Fu Lou and well-protected by him.
Upon waking, Chunhua was surprised to find Shangguan Qiuyue still there and asked why he hadn't returned to Thousand Moon Cave. Shangguan Qiuyue playfully accused her of using him to reach Legend Valley only to dismiss him afterward. Chunhua quickly explained she was merely concerned for his rest. Shangguan Qiuyue then questioned her contentment in Legend Valley, to which Chunhua confessed her admiration for Lady You Si, stating that Lady You Si possessed something Chunhua deeply desired.
When Shangguan Qiuyue pressed for details, Chunhua explained she coveted the mutual support and cherished intimacy seen in Lady You Si’s relationship with Fu Lou, a bond so profound that it made a life feel truly lived. Shangguan Qiuyue, suspecting Chunhua was thinking of Xiao Bai, teasingly asked if she wanted him to send her back. Just then, Fu Lou stormed in, angrily announcing that Lady You Si had been abducted by Fengming Manor, leaving Chunhua utterly shocked.
Shangguan Qiuyue mockingly observed Fu Lou’s shock, highlighting Fengming Manor’s deceptive tactics and their willingness to conceal misdeeds for a "just" outcome. Fu Lou, turning on Chunhua, accused her of colluding with Fengming Manor. Shangguan Qiuyue intervened to protect Chunhua, who then tearfully confessed to Fu Lou that the immortality fruit was a fake, and the entire "Guilty Confession Letter" event was a deceptive trap. She had come to Legend Valley specifically to prevent him from falling into it.
Observing Fu Lou's realization, Shangguan Qiuyue, keen to further instigate conflict between Fu Lou and Fengming Manor, pointed out Fu Lou's numerous enemies and the dire danger Lady You Si faced while held captive in Fengming Manor. Resolved to rescue his wife, Fu Lou prepared to depart for Fengming Manor. Chunhua, determined to help, offered herself as a hostage, instructing Fu Lou to kidnap her so she could be exchanged for Lady You Si.
Chunhua then playfully coached Fu Lou on how to convincingly pretend to hold her hostage, emphasizing that he could do anything as long as her face and limbs were unharmed. Shangguan Qiuyue observed their act with amusement. Outside Fengming Manor, Fu Lou, with Chunhua as his "hostage," demanded Lady You Si’s release. Xiao Bai urged Fu Lou not to resort to a desperate struggle and offered to exchange Lady You Si for Chunhua.
Chief Leng intervened, declaring that Chunhua, being cowardly, was unfit to be Junior Leader’s wife and that her threat was meaningless. Xiao Bai, however, asserted Chunhua was his fiancée and reiterated his offer: release Lady You Si, and he would release Chunhua. After some back and forth, Lady You Si was released to Fu Lou, and Chunhua was returned to Xiao Bai.
Shangguan Qiuyue, watching the exchange, was surprised by Xiao Bai's unexpected display of humanity and briefly wondered if letting Chunhua return to Fengming Manor would make her happier. As he prepared to depart, Xiao Bai suddenly stopped Fu Lou, announcing that Fengming Manor would host an immortality fruit meeting the next day at noon, inviting Fu Lou to attend for Lady You Si’s potential cure.
Chunhua immediately interjected that the immortality fruit was fake, but Xiao Bai quickly silenced her, solemnly vowing on Fengming Manor's century-old reputation that the fruit was genuine and that both Fu Lou and Lady You Si would be protected. He advised Chunhua to keep silent about the fruit's authenticity, lest it jeopardize her stay in Fengming Manor.
Shangguan Qiuyue proposed a bet to Chunhua: if Xiao Bai successfully protected Fu Lou and Lady You Si at the upcoming immortality fruit meeting, Chunhua could remain in Fengming Manor; otherwise, she would return to Thousand Moon Cave with him. Chunhua hesitated, but Shangguan Qiuyue pressed her, suggesting her reluctance stemmed from fear of learning Xiao Bai’s true priorities—whether he would choose Wulin justice over her.
He reminded her that Xiao Bai had never explicitly stated his choice when she had given him the chess pieces. Shangguan Qiuyue emphasized that heartfelt actions were far more valuable than empty words. After some playful teasing about his pervasive presence and her exasperation with her awkward situation in Fengming Manor, Chunhua finally agreed to the wager. Shangguan Qiuyue declared that the impending immortality fruit meeting on the full moon night promised to be most interesting.
Separately, Fu Lou comforted Lady You Si, assuring her that once he obtained the immortality fruit, they would live happily ever after, and he would personally resolve any conflicts he had created while striving to save her.
Episode 25 Recap
Chunhua confronts Shangguan Qiuyue, expressing her suspicion that the widespread pursuit of the immortality fruit is not merely Fengming Manor's trap, but also his. She questions if he is there to protect her, or simply to witness the ensuing chaos and see how many more people will fall into the traps. Shangguan Qiuyue retorts that Chunhua no longer trusts him, making any answer he gives futile.
He explains that the chaos surrounding the immortality fruit stems from human greed, but assures her his desire to protect her is genuine. Chunhua challenges him, asking if Fu Lou's protectiveness towards Lady You Si is also greed, and if he himself is without greed. Shangguan Qiuyue observes that Chunhua has changed significantly, noting that she, who once approached him and Xiao Bai with innocent enthusiasm, now dares not trust anything.
Chunhua admits her heart has grown cold after completing her task, despite her initial passionate pursuit of true love. Shangguan Qiuyue finds her transformation acceptable, stating that he loves her whether she is pure or thoughtful, and urges her to observe carefully as events unfold the next day. Feeling disheartened, Chunhua wanders alone in the courtyard, where she encounters Xiao Bai. He inquires about her well-being, and she suggests they walk together.
She reminisces about their past, recalling how he accepted her despite her suspicious origins and actions, even when she was suspected of killing the Medical Sage. She describes calling him "darling" shamelessly and how he never rejected her. Xiao Bai explains that his father taught him to uphold justice for the Wulin, which is why he brought her back, believing she was innocent and pure, unlike other women he had met, and his fiancée, Hua Xiaolei.
Chunhua reflects that she truly believed she had found real love then, but now feels lost and that her desires are not aligning with her reality. She passionately pleads with Xiao Bai to ensure the safety of Fu Lou and Lady You Si at the upcoming immortality fruit conference, pointing out that only someone as desperate as Fu Lou would fall for such a clear trap.
Xiao Bai deflects her plea by reiterating his father's teachings about prioritizing the Wulin's peace, emphasizing that one must possess the ability to pacify the realm, not merely make empty promises. Chunhua challenges him, arguing that a man who cannot even care for a woman cannot truly care for the world. Xiao Bai gently takes her hand, assuring her that she remains his most cherished Chunhua and nothing has changed.
However, when Chunhua presses him for a sincere promise to protect Fu Lou and Lady You Si, Xiao Bai coldly states that as members of the evil sect, their deaths would be a worthy sacrifice if it brought peace to the Wulin. Realizing his true intentions, Chunhua asks him whether he would sacrifice her if it meant achieving his perceived peace for the martial arts world.
Xiao Bai avoids a direct answer, claiming he would never let such a scenario occur. Disheartened by his unwavering conviction and apparent ruthlessness, Chunhua turns and departs. Fu Lou arrives as arranged, prompting Xiao Bai to acknowledge his adherence to promises. Despite objections from others, Xiao Bai ensures that according to the conference rules, Fu Lou receives the immortality fruit in exchange for his candid Guilty Confession Letter, reminding everyone that Fu Lou has sworn to die as penance afterward.
Meanwhile, Chunhua accompanies Lady You Si, who awaits Fu Lou. Suddenly, Shangguan Qiuyue makes a dramatic entrance. Recognizing him, Lady You Si excuses herself, instructing Shangguan Qiuyue to talk with Chunhua while she goes to find her husband. Chunhua confronts Shangguan Qiuyue, expressing her annoyance at his calm and confident demeanor, reminiscent of Xiao Bai. She accuses him of being there merely for entertainment.
Shangguan Qiuyue admits that while witnessing entertainment is pleasant, his true desire is to take her back to Thousand Moon Cave. He correctly infers that Xiao Bai has upset her. Chunhua explains that she must tolerate her unhappiness with Xiao Bai because he acts for the sake of Wulin justice. She then presses Shangguan Qiuyue on his own intentions, to which he promises to protect her from any wrong.
He clarifies that he will not interfere directly, but will observe from a distance to prevent Xiao Bai from losing composure upon seeing him, reminding her of their earlier wager. Fu Lou brings the immortality fruit to Lady You Si, and they share a tender moment, dreaming of a future where they will travel and enjoy life together once her poison is cured. Fu Lou assures her he will return after negotiating with the others.
He then publicly presents his Guilty Confession Letter, declaring his intention to die as penance once Lady You Si has consumed the immortality fruit. However, a furious Miss Feng discovers her father, Feng Qianwei, is not on the list of victims, accusing Fu Lou of lying.
Fu Lou vehemently denies killing Feng Qianwei and sensationally reveals that it was Miss Feng's own father who personally murdered the Medical Sage after failing to find the immortality fruit at the Eight Immortals Medicine Hall, a deed Fu Lou witnessed. When Fu Lou claims to know the true killer of Feng Qianwei, Chief Leng quickly intervenes, attempting to discredit Fu Lou and redirect the focus to the numerous other victims on the list.
To prove his veracity, Fu Lou calls upon Chunhua to corroborate his claims. He asks Chunhua directly if Feng Qianwei had conspired to kidnap her using his own daughter as bait, and Chunhua confirms this, thereby exposing Feng Qianwei's deceptive character. Fu Lou concludes by stating that he has confessed truthfully to ensure Lady You Si's safety and will fulfill his promise of self-sacrifice once she is secured by Fengming Manor.
Anticipating his imminent demise, Fu Lou tearfully entrusts Lady You Si's safety to Chunhua, asking her to take Lady You Si away and use the Legend Valley token to seek protection from either Shangguan Qiuyue or Xiao Bai. Chunhua, her eyes filled with tears, promises to do so. As Fu Lou prepares to face the righteous sects alone, Shangguan Qiuyue makes another appearance, remarking on the grand event of the Guilty Confession Letter.
Xiao Bai spots him and attempts to approach, but Qin Liufeng intervenes, warning him to be cautious of hidden enemies. Shangguan Qiuyue then pointedly addresses Chief Leng, suggesting that while Fu Lou’s honesty is admirable, it doesn't excuse the deaths on his list, subtly hinting at a deeper conspiracy. Miss Feng, desperate for answers, directly asks Shangguan Qiuyue who killed her father.
Shangguan Qiuyue vaguely replies that the killer is among those present but does not name him, before departing with a promise to return at moonrise. Miss Feng then turns to Fu Lou for the truth. Fearing exposure, Chief Leng instantly demonizes Fu Lou, rallying his disciples to attack him. Fu Lou, remembering Chunhua's earlier plea not to harm others unnecessarily and secretly seeking death, still engages in a fierce battle.
Amidst the chaos, Chief Leng seizes an opportunity and stealthily launches a hidden arrow, gravely wounding Fu Lou. From a distance, Lady You Si anxiously hears the sounds of conflict, clinging to the hope that it's merely a negotiation, but Chunhua sorrowfully confirms that it is a full-blown slaughter. Distraught, Lady You Si expresses her desire to join Fu Lou.
Episode 26 Recap
Following the escalating conflict where Fu Lou, wounded by Chief Leng and resigned to his fate, continued fighting the righteous sects, Lady You Si rushed to be with her husband, with Chunhua reluctantly following, unsure how to stop her. Chunhua pleaded with Xiao Bai to spare Fu Lou, reminding him that Fu Lou had saved her life at Medical Sage's home and was now at the end of his strength.
Fu Lou himself declared that he was the one at fault, not others, and invited them to kill him instead. Chief Leng rushed out to kill, and Shangguan Qiuyue, fearing for Chunhua's safety, pulled her away. Seeing Shangguan Qiuyue holding Chunhua, Xiao Bai became tense. Chief Leng of the orthodox sects then publicly accused Chunhua of having an affair with Shangguan Qiuyue, asserting that the Junior Leader should not be swayed by her, which seemed to mislead Xiao Bai.
Shangguan Qiuyue, observing the chaos, calmly stated he was merely there to witness the event, dismissing Chief Leng's challenge and remarking that since everyone believed Chunhua and he were involved, they might as well play along, which Chunhua quickly interrupted, realizing he only wished to complicate matters further. Shangguan Qiuyue agreed not to interfere further.
As Fu Lou was dying, having been killed by Chief Leng, he desperately called for Lady You Si, urging her to take the immortality fruit when the moon was full. After Fu Lou succumbed to his injuries, the righteous sects declared him a master killer and sought to dismember his corpse. Chunhua vehemently condemned their actions, questioning their humanity. Xiao Bai sternly reprimanded her for her outburst.
The sect members retorted that Fu Lou deserved a thousand cuts for his crimes, accusing Lady You Si of colluding with the enemy instead of avenging her husband. Lady You Si defended Fu Lou, revealing the harrowing truth of her past. She recounted how Fu Lou, her childhood sweetheart, was a disciple of Chief Yuan.
When Chief Yuan wished to remarry and fixated on Lady You Si, he framed Fu Lou and drove him from the mountain, even burning Fu Lou's face. To protect Fu Lou from further harm, Lady You Si agreed to marry Chief Yuan. However, Chief Yuan was narrow-minded and constantly suspected her of having an affair with Fu Lou, brutally beating and torturing her, and even forcing her to take abortion medicine, causing her to lose three of their children.
She displayed her scars as proof, asserting that Chief Yuan, Yuan Zhihai, was the true villain who drove them to despair. She then confronted Chief Qin, implying he was aware of these atrocities. Chief Qin admitted visiting Chief Yuan ten years prior and confirmed that Chief Yuan indeed forced Lady You Si to marry him. However, he maintained that Fu Lou killing his master was also true, and as an outsider, he could not interfere in family affairs.
Chunhua, enraged, chastised the righteous sects, including Chief Qin, for their hypocrisy and their refusal to uphold true justice. Qin Liufeng intervened, stating that harming a weak woman was not the way of the righteous, especially if she had been abused and wished to reform. Xiao Bai then declared that he had promised Fu Lou he would spare Lady You Si.
Yet, the righteous sect members remained fixated on the immortality fruit, blaming Xiao Bai for their losses due to his supposed gifting of the fruit to the evil sect. Realizing their true motives, Chunhua publicly exposed the immortality fruit as a fake, which instantly turned the crowd's anger towards Fengming Manor for hosting the auction.
Xiao Bai, who had initially tried to cover for Chunhua by claiming she was overly tired and stimulated, then reprimanded her for publicly damaging his and Fengming Manor's reputation. Chunhua bitterly retorted, asking what her value was in his heart compared to his righteous path, his determination to eradicate evil, or even a fake immortality fruit, seeing herself as nothing more than a pawn for his grand cause. Xiao Bai angrily silenced her.
Xiao Bai offered to take Lady You Si back to Fengming Manor for later disposition. Lady You Si, now indifferent to the fruit's authenticity, tossed it aside, prompting a tense atmosphere among the onlookers eager for it. Xiao Bai, to prevent further unrest, immediately destroyed the fruit. Chunhua called him hypocritical. Witnessing Fu Lou's death, Lady You Si took her own life, choosing to accompany her husband in death. Chunhua wept uncontrollably and demanded an apology from Xiao Bai.
He refused, stating that he was not sorry as "the good and the evil will not coexist," asserting that Fu Lou was to blame for his own demise and that he was powerless to help Lady You Si. Heartbroken, Chunhua provoked him, challenging him to kill her for the sake of the righteous path, openly admitting to having an affair with Shangguan Qiuyue and declaring herself an evil sorceress.
Xiao Bai, however, stated that as her husband, he would let her past be gone. Chunhua scoffed, highlighting his perceived self-righteousness and urging him to set an example by killing her for the greater good. Shangguan Qiuyue then intervened, noting the hypocrisy of the righteous sects who would kill for their cause while the evil sects would not. Xiao Bai confronted Shangguan Qiuyue, accusing him of making a scene at his wedding, kidnapping his wife, and attempting to corrupt her.
Chunhua confirmed Shangguan Qiuyue's influence over her and asked him to take her back to Thousand Moon Cave. Xiao Bai, in turn, returned the jade from his body, which belonged to Thousand Moon Cave, to Shangguan Qiuyue before Chunhua departed with him. After Chunhua's departure, Xiao Bai was consumed by grief.
Qin Liufeng tried to console him, explaining that Chunhua's anguish was understandable given Fu Lou had saved her life and Lady You Si was so dear to her, and they both died tragically before her eyes. Xiao Bai, recalling his father's teachings, tried to convince himself that his responsibility to the martial arts world came first, repeating that Chunhua was not suitable to be the Alliance Leader's wife.
He remembered his father's words that "great wisdom must bring harm and deep love will reduce life," and the admonition to be self-disciplined and prioritize the greater good over personal feelings. He reflected on his mother's unhappy life as the Alliance Leader's wife, contrasting it with Chunhua's lively, sometimes selfish nature, and concluded that her lack of martial arts, recklessness, and vulnerability made her unsuitable for the demanding role. Despite his rationalizations, tears welled in his eyes.
Meanwhile, Leng Ning was also deeply saddened, realizing that Fu Lou had been forced into becoming a demonic figure. She began to question if their actions had been wrong, acknowledging that she had never intended such an outcome. Qin Liufeng comforted Leng Ning, quoting a poem about finding warmth in the martial arts world and expressing his wish to become a carefree wandering couple with her. Elsewhere, Chunhua was plagued by nightmares, crying out in her sleep.
Shangguan Qiuyue gently comforted her, telling her she had suffered. Star Deputy Chief Ye arrived to report on the surrender of Legend Valley. He informed Shangguan Qiuyue that most of Fu Lou's former subordinates had joined Thousand Moon Cave as per Fu Lou's dying wish, but some holdouts were resolved by Gu Wan.
Shangguan Qiuyue instructed Star Deputy Chief Ye to let the remaining remnants feel uneasy for a few days before pacifying them, and to be especially cautious around Gu Wan. Simultaneously, an observer noted Xiao Bai's unusually overwhelming momentum while practicing his blade, suggesting it was an uncontrolled display, unlike the principles of authentic martial arts that emphasize self-control.
Episode 27 Recap
When feeling uneasy, Xiao Bai practices his swordsmanship late at night. His mind is disturbed, and he nearly injures himself. Fortunately, Feng Caicai quickly intervenes, drawing Lüxiu’s sword to protect him from harm. Xiao Bai expresses his gratitude to Feng Caicai and Lüxiu before returning to his room. Lüxiu observes that Xiao Bai has reverted to his former self, serious, prudent, and meticulous about etiquette, much like he was before Chunhua’s arrival, which causes her concern.
Alone in his room, Xiao Bai gazes at the suit Chunhua gave him, recalling the moment she presented it. Overwhelmed by emotion, he tears the garment to shreds. In Thousand Moon Cave, Chunhua forces a smile. Qiuyue, noting her somber mood, attempts to comfort her and expresses his desire for her to remain by his side.
Chunhua, however, reminds him of the tragic fates of Fu Lou and You Si, implying that their relationship would meet a similar end if she stayed, stating that she brings him no benefit. Qiuyue dismisses her concerns, assuring her their situation is different and will not end that way. Chunhua reflects that Qiuyue, like Xiao Bai, is either calculating or weighing his options, and she feels like a mere pawn.
Unbeknownst to her, Qiuyue truly believes Chunhua is sincere, recalling moments that convinced him of her genuine affection. To lift her spirits, Qiuyue orders servants to make mooncakes daily, knowing she loves them. Chunhua points out that mooncakes are meant for family reunions and are not meant to be eaten daily. Qiuyue confidently declares that with them together, every day is a reunion, making daily mooncake consumption perfectly acceptable.
When Chunhua expresses thirst for tea, he later offers her wine instead, further surprising her with his unconventional approach. Xiao Bai spends sleepless nights contemplating Shangguan Qiuyue's next move. He believes Qiuyue intends to unite Thousand Moon Cave and Legend Valley to consolidate the evil sect, viewing this as a major threat to the martial arts world.
He suspects the entire immortality fruit affair is a trap orchestrated by Thousand Moon Cave, leading him to feel overwhelmed and lost since his father's death, as he relied on him. He attempts to confess his feelings to Feng Caicai, admiring her dignified character, gentleness, and sensible nature, stating she would make a suitable alliance leader's wife. Qin Liufeng, sensing Xiao Bai’s intentions, quickly interrupts, mentioning the suspicious circumstances surrounding Chief Feng’s death.
He then discreetly sends Feng Caicai and Leng Ning away to speak privately with Xiao Bai. Qin Liufeng advises Xiao Bai to embrace his human weaknesses, reassuring him that expressing his feelings will help and that he has support. He warns Xiao Bai against using Feng Caicai as a means to heal his pain, emphasizing her sincerity, and stating it would be unfair to her.
Qin Liufeng suggests that the issues between Xiao Bai and Chunhua are mere misunderstandings stemming from Chunhua's pure and innocent nature, unfamiliar with the principles of the jianghu. He believes they could resolve things by openly discussing them when they meet again. However, Xiao Bai firmly states it is not a misunderstanding but a choice, believing Chunhua will never return.
Meanwhile, Feng Caicai discusses her growing unease about Xiao Bai's changed demeanor with Leng Ning, who attributes it to heartbreak and suggests he needs time alone to recover. Nevertheless, Feng Caicai expresses her disbelief in Fu Lou's account of her father's death and decides to revisit Eight Immortals City to investigate her father's case, which she finds highly suspicious. Leng Ning, offering her unwavering support, agrees to accompany her, reiterating their close bond.
They also decide to investigate the puppet's origins related to the immortality fruit auction, as his only living relative died violently. Elsewhere, Gu Wan, having long admired Ye Yan, openly expresses his desire for her, proposing they leave Thousand Moon Cave, settle down, and have children. Ye Yan firmly rejects his advances, reminding him of Thousand Moon Cave's strict rules against impropriety among colleagues.
When Gu Wan dramatically asks her to kill him if she refuses, Ye Yan states she has no authority to execute subordinates on the Lord's behalf. Gu Wan misinterprets her restraint as a sign of lingering affection, claiming she held back her full power against him, believing she still cared for him. Infuriated, Ye Yan curtly dismisses him, telling him to leave.
Qiuyue shares wine with Chunhua, deliberately adding "Three-day Intoxication" to her drink in an attempt to alleviate her sorrow. Despite this, Chunhua remains despondent, questioning why she always messes things up despite her earnest efforts, and feeling that her simple desire to be with someone has always been wrong. She voices her distrust in everyone, lamenting that one person gave up on her while another schemed against her.
Qiuyue reassures her, affirming her innocence and promising to stay by her side and treat her well. He warns her not to take advantage of him while drunk. Annoyed by his repeated accusations, Chunhua demands to know when she ever did such a thing, then defiantly kisses him to demonstrate what "taking advantage" truly means.
Unmoved by the kiss, Qiuyue expresses his dislike for her self-destructive behavior and tells her not to use him as an antidote for her pain, urging her to regain her sobriety. He then uses his internal power to help her clear her mind. A servant reports that Gu Wan was gravely injured while quelling the rebellion in Legend Valley, his fate uncertain. Qiuyue reacts with cold indifference, simply acknowledging the report.
Chunhua is shocked by his callousness, pointing out Gu Wan's loyalty and questioning his lack of concern. She fears that if she were injured, Qiuyue would abandon her as well. Qiuyue assures her with a smile that he would, of course, save her, stating she thinks too much. Qiuyue and Chunhua go to see Gu Wan. Chunhua pleads with Qiuyue to save him, despite Gu Wan’s critical condition and severe internal backlash.
Qiuyue initially dismisses it as hopeless, stating his presence won't help as Gu Wan has no hope of recovery. Chunhua persists, reminding him of Gu Wan's long-standing loyalty and the potential benefits of saving his right-hand man. She argues that saving him would only consume vital qi, which he could recover from with a few days of rest, and would encourage others to be more loyal.
Qiuyue, however, asserts that Gu Wan would attempt to kill him if saved, though Chunhua dismisses this as cynical, believing not everyone is as contemptible as he thinks. Finally, at Chunhua's persistent pleas, Qiuyue asks everyone else to leave, seemingly preparing to intervene. Xiao Bai approaches Feng Caicai to discuss Chief Feng's case, expressing regret for having overlooked the investigation into his father's death, which Fu Lou had publicly slandered with disgraceful remarks.
He admits that clarifying the truth and restoring Chief Feng's reputation should have been his top priority after his self-indictment. Feng Caicai reassures him not to doubt his decisions, praising his commitment to justice and his sacrifice for the greater good of the jianghu, and offering her full support in the investigation. Xiao Bai thanks her and inquires about Leng Ning and Qin Liufeng.
He learns they have already departed for Eight Immortals City to investigate Medical Sage's death and the truth behind the immortality fruit auction. Xiao Bai suggests that he and Feng Caicai set out together that very afternoon.
Episode 28 Recap
Chunhua frantically begged Shangguan Qiuyue to save Gu Wan, despite Shangguan Qiuyue's knowledge that Gu Wan intended to kill him. After Shangguan Qiuyue seemingly expended his vital qi to save Gu Wan, Gu Wan feigned concern for Shangguan Qiuyue's depleted internal strength, attempting to lull him into a false sense of security. Shangguan Qiuyue, aware of the deception, played along, claiming he needed several hours to regulate his vital qi and ordering Gu Wan to shut his acupoints.
Gu Wan's followers, believing Shangguan Qiuyue was genuinely weakened, were emboldened. Gu Wan, having seemingly injured Shangguan Qiuyue with a concealed weapon, boasted that Shangguan Qiuyue only had a fraction of his strength left. Ye Yan, loyal to Shangguan Qiuyue, reminded Gu Wan of his ingratitude, but Gu Wan dismissed it as Shangguan Qiuyue's own fault, gloating that Shangguan Qiuyue, usually so clever, had fallen for Chunhua's "stupid" advice to save him.
Chunhua, feeling guilty, produced Valley Chief Fu Lou's token, but Gu Wan's followers scoffed, saying Fu Lou was dead and his token meant nothing. Chunhua then tried to deter them by asserting that even with his damaged vital qi, Shangguan Qiuyue was more than capable of handling them. She urged those not involved in the rebellion to retreat, promising their lives might be spared.
Gu Wan, realizing Shangguan Qiuyue had feigned weakness to lure them out, became desperate and ordered his men to attack, warning them that Shangguan Qiuyue would never truly let them go. Shangguan Qiuyue swiftly dealt with the rebellious group while Gu Wan seized the opportunity to escape. Shangguan Qiuyue then instructed Ye Yan to guard the area while he left with Chunhua to recover his strength.
Upon returning to their room, Shangguan Qiuyue collapsed, and Chunhua discovered his back was covered in blood. Frightened, she called his name, but he playfully corrected her, telling her to call him "brother," which slightly eased her panic. As she tried to help him to the bed, Gu Wan suddenly appeared, intending to finish Shangguan Qiuyue off. Shangguan Qiuyue swiftly used a concealed weapon, creating a diversion that allowed him to escape with Chunhua into a dark dungeon.
Shangguan Qiuyue urged Chunhua to leave, promising to arrange for Ye Yan to escort her to safety, knowing Gu Wan wouldn't harm Ye Yan. Chunhua, though worried about Shangguan Qiuyue's condition, pretended to be afraid of the dark, refusing to leave. She questioned why Shangguan Qiuyue, knowing Gu Wan's treachery, still chose to save him and consume his vital qi. Shangguan Qiuyue replied simply that it was because Chunhua wanted him to.
He then playfully suggested that Chunhua "collect yin to replenish yang" to help him recover. Embarrassed, Chunhua became flustered, prompting Shangguan Qiuyue to clarify that he needed her to help him to the Ice Valley to collect the dark and cold qi of heaven and earth.
When she momentarily left, assuming he was merely teasing her, he called out to her, and when he fell silent, her concern for him compelled her to quickly return, only to find him teasing her again. Chunhua struggled to bring the injured Shangguan Qiuyue to the Ice Valley, a place so cold that Shangguan Qiuyue, despite his weakened state, admitted he disliked, having been confined there for over a decade.
As Shangguan Qiuyue lay unconscious, Chunhua desperately tried to stop his bleeding and wished for him to wake up. To her surprise, he awoke, telling her he had heard her wish and decided to grant it. Though the valley was intensely cold, Chunhua, concerned for his well-being, embraced him to provide warmth, despite her own discomfort.
Shangguan Qiuyue, touched by her actions, told her that if she couldn't endure the cold, there was a secret passage nearby that she could use to leave. Chunhua immediately pulled away and headed towards the passage. Shangguan Qiuyue, initially thinking she was abandoning him, started to gather his internal energy, conflicted. However, Chunhua paused at the passage entrance, turning to ask him what he wanted to eat.
Shangguan Qiuyue immediately understood her true intention was to find food for him, and a bittersweet smile crossed his face as he dismissed his previous misjudgment, telling her he would be happy with anything she prepared. Meanwhile, Qin Liufeng and Leng Ning began their investigation into the Medical Sage's death. In a jade shop, the shopkeeper mistook them for a couple, prompting Qin Liufeng to playfully purchase a pair of matching jade pendants.
Later, at a restaurant, Leng Ning deliberately ordered all the signature dishes. To her dismay, Qin Liufeng confessed he had spent all his money on the jade pendants. Leng Ning reluctantly offered to pay but found she didn't have enough to cover the exorbitant bill. Resourceful, Qin Liufeng discreetly dropped a fly into the soup, allowing them to escape without paying.
During their meal, Leng Ning recalled the silver needles found in the back of resurrected corpses at the immortality fruit auction, identifying them as the Medical Sage's unique concealed weapons capable of controlling the recently deceased. Shortly after leaving the restaurant, they were ambushed by someone attempting to silence them. Having anticipated this, Qin Liufeng subdued the attacker, but not before the assailant managed to use Blindness Powder on him.
Qin Liufeng managed to grab some silver needles from the attacker's cuffs. They later discovered the man was Li Yu, a disciple of the Medical Sage, who had been rescued from debt collectors by people from the Eight Immortals Mansion after his gambling addiction left him nearly beaten to death. Qin Liufeng and Leng Ning returned to meet Xiao Bai and Feng Caicai, relaying their findings.
Xiao Bai decided they needed to revisit the scene where the Medical Sage was killed. Arriving at the Medical Sage's home, Xiao Bai was lost in thought, remembering his first meeting with Chunhua in that very place, seemingly unaware when Qin Liufeng gently removed the Fengming Blade from his grasp.
Feng Caicai comforted him, expressing hope that solving the mystery of the Medical Sage's death, which intertwined with his father's fate and Chunhua, would resolve the misunderstandings between him and Chunhua. Xiao Bai, however, stated firmly that he intended to forget the past and instead cherish those present with him now, especially Feng Caicai.
Episode 29 Recap
In the cold expanse of Ice Valley, Shangguan Qiuyue, severely injured, lamented the frigid surroundings. Chunhua, ever considerate, brought him a quilt. She explained that Star Deputy Chief Ye was guarding the entrance, ensuring they had such provisions. As Chunhua fed him mooncakes, Qiuyue expressed his enjoyment of eating them with her but quickly feigned thirst and then teased her about how she offered him water. Annoyed, Chunhua turned away to warm herself by the fire.
Qiuyue, claiming his injuries made him entirely Chunhua’s responsibility, insisted she hold him. Though initially reluctant, Chunhua, feeling guilty, agreed, with Qiuyue stating he would only allow her to hold him. With Qiuyue nestled in her arms, he slowly drifted to sleep. Chunhua gazed at his sleeping face, finding herself mesmerized and muttering about him being a "demon."
She then mentally reminded herself of the "first-sight love law," asserting that the first man she saw was her true Mr. Right, and cautioned against letting destiny be altered. Suddenly, Qiuyue stirred, instinctively striking out, startling Chunhua. Realizing it was her, he quickly apologized for his reflex. Chunhua questioned Qiuyue's constant vigilance, even in sleep. Qiuyue then recounted his harsh upbringing in Ice Valley.
He explained that from a young age, his mother, Shangguan Hui, ruthlessly trained him daily with sneak attacks to hone his martial arts and reaction skills. If she succeeded even once, he would be deprived of food for an entire day, leading to his habit of barely sleeping. He recalled sneaking out at age five, falling into an icy stream, and being brutally beaten and starved for three days by Shangguan Hui when she discovered him.
He mentioned her only showing compassion for the ice silkworms she raised; at twelve, he burned them, leading to five days of starvation as punishment. Shangguan Hui’s motivation, he revealed, was to force him to avenge her abandonment by Xiao Yuan, Xiao Bai's father.
Chunhua expressed sympathy, acknowledging that Shangguan Hui, imprisoned in Ice Valley after Xiao Yuan abandoned her, likely had no other choices to survive, having associated with many men, some of whom she killed or led to their deaths. Qiuyue shared that he only learned Shangguan Hui was his mother upon her death. Every Mid-Autumn Festival, she would make him swear to kill Xiao Yuan, but ironically, she died before Xiao Yuan, who was then killed by her old friend.
Qiuyue praised Chunhua’s understanding, noting her difference from Hua Xiaolei, who wanted to expose his crimes. He promised to treat Chunhua well. Later, Qiuyue held Chunhua as they both drifted to sleep. He observed her peaceful sleeping face with contentment and gently kissed her forehead. Chunhua, half-awake, instinctively smiled upon seeing him, but then startled awake as she fully realized it was Qiuyue.
Later, Star Deputy Chief Ye confronted Star Deputy Chief Gu, who tried to persuade her to abandon Shangguan Qiuyue, promising her the title of Chief of Thousand Moon Cave if she helped eliminate him. However, Star Deputy Chief Ye had already poisoned him with Strength Dissipation Powder, not arsenic, explaining that the hearts of people in Thousand Moon Cave are treacherous.
His martial arts abolished, Star Deputy Chief Gu expressed his contentment and regretless feelings, accepting his fate before Star Deputy Chief Ye ordered him to leave and never return. Star Deputy Chief Ye then falsely informed Chunhua that Star Deputy Chief Gu was dead. She instructed Chunhua to remain in Ice Valley and care for Shangguan Qiuyue until his full recovery, citing lingering concerns about former subordinates from Legend Valley.
Chunhua and Qiuyue ate warm food together, with Chunhua expressing her satisfaction. Qiuyue once again complained of feeling cold and, despite Chunhua's suggestion to use the nearby brazier, deliberately burned his hand in the fire to elicit her concern and a comforting embrace. Meanwhile, Qin Liufeng and Leng Ning arrived at Eight Immortals Mansion to investigate. Qin Liufeng suggested they feign illness, with Leng Ning leaning on him, but she immediately rejected the idea. They then decided to enter openly.
Before they could, they encountered Li Yu. As they pursued him, Li Yu quickly used Medical Sage's acupuncture needles to seal Leng Ning's acupoints, rendering her immobile, before fleeing. Qin Liufeng, reassuring Leng Ning, claimed he knew the "method of crossing acupoints with silver needles" from Mr. Bu, though he admitted Mr. Bu no longer considered him a disciple.
Despite his low confidence, Qin Liufeng successfully unblocked Leng Ning's acupoints, jokingly attributing it to her fear, which provoked her to strike him, though he playfully caught her hand. Unexpectedly, Li Yu was waiting ahead for them, explaining he ran earlier out of fear of getting into trouble but then decided to clarify.
He stated his commitment to the junior leader's order to investigate the immortality fruit if it was linked to the puppet silver needles, as he was a disciple of Medical Sage. Qin Liufeng lamented that the clues were lost again. In the bamboo forest, assassins dispatched by Chief Leng ambushed Feng Caicai, intending to kill her to prevent her from uncovering the truth about Chief Feng's death.
Her cries for help alerted Xiao Bai, who was deep in thought near Medical Sage's residence. Xiao Bai swiftly intervened, brutally eliminating the black-clad attackers with fierce martial arts, leaving Feng Caicai stunned. He observed that their martial arts were common, and their training aimed to conceal their sect identity, suggesting a familiar culprit who wanted to halt their investigation, linking them to Medical Sage's death. They then proceeded to Medical Sage’s residence.
Feng Caicai noted the lack of struggle, implying a familiar perpetrator. Xiao Bai agreed, observing that Medical Sage died from a palm strike that severed his vital pulses, not a blade, indicating immense power. They acknowledged that Chunhua had been in a coma at the time, making her unable to witness the crime, and dismissed the Medical Sage's dying accusation of Chunhua, knowing her lack of martial arts.
Xiao Bai then deduced that the killer was likely someone who had broken into the Eight Immortals Medicine Hall in search of the immortality fruit and, failing to find it, brutally killed Medical Sage to prevent exposure. He concluded that the case might remain unsolved.
Episode 30 Recap
Chun Hua brushed Qiu Yue's hair, noticing his hairpin and feeling a sense of familiarity, as if she had seen it before. Qiu Yue teased her, asking if she harbored thoughts of taking advantage of him, especially given his current injured state. Chun Hua playfully pointed the hairpin at his neck, suggesting she could kill him. Unfazed, Qiu Yue challenged her to consider if she would feel joy or reluctance if she were to do so.
When Chun Hua hesitated, unable to give a clear answer, Qiu Yue chuckled and declared he would make the decision for her, then took her hand and guided the hairpin towards his own neck. Chun Hua instantly pulled her hand away, exclaiming that he was mad. Qiu Yue then declared that Chun Hua's refusal to kill him proved her affection, and thus he was free to take advantage of her.
He also offered her warmth, noting the coldness of the wall. Without further protest, Chun Hua allowed him to kiss her, and they embraced sweetly. Meanwhile, Xiao Bai discussed his suspicions with Qin Liufeng that Chief Feng was responsible for Medical Sage's death. Xiao Bai expressed his doubt, given that Chief Feng and Medical Sage were equally skilled, making a one-move kill seem unlikely. He surmised that there must be something more sinister at play.
Therefore, he instructed Qin Liufeng to keep this matter confidential and not to disclose it, especially not to Feng Caicai, until they had uncovered the full truth. The next morning, Qiu Yue watched Chun Hua as she slept. When Chun Hua awoke, a smile initially graced her lips, but then her expression hardened, and she sat up with a sudden coldness. Qiu Yue confronted her, expressing his confusion as to why she was so distant after kissing and hugging him.
Chun Hua retorted, disliking his implication that she was the proactive one. Qiu Yue playfully asserted that she had seized the opportunity while he was injured because she liked him, and as a benefit for her affection, he would allow her to take advantage of him for a lifetime. Chun Hua dismissed his words as nonsense, denying any affection. She pondered his casual use of the word "lifetime," finding it too simple.
Qiu Yue remarked that Chun Hua's easily readable emotions reminded him of their first meeting. Chun Hua initially believed he was referring to the time he tricked her in the bamboo forest. Qiu Yue corrected her, revealing that their true first meeting was when she awoke in the Eight Immortals Medicine Hall.
He recounted how he had been watching her from a distance while Xiao Bai stormed in, and he had recognized at first sight that she was not Hua Xiaolei, who had previously died at the hall's gate, due to her unsophisticated expression. He revealed he had been wearing the same hairpin then.
Chun Hua, looking at the hairpin, suddenly understood that the blurry figure she had seen in her hazy awakening was Qiu Yue all along, making him the first person she truly saw. Overwhelmed by this realization and the thought that she had mistaken her Mr. Right for so long, she burst into tears. Qiu Yue, confused by her sudden distress, held her and gently apologized, taking the blame for her tears.
Chun Hua confided in Qiu Yue about a dream she had while in the Eight Immortals Medicine Hall, where she was told that the first man she saw upon waking would be her Mr. Right. She confessed that she had always believed that man was Xiao Bai. Qiu Yue reassured her, confirming the dream's accuracy and saying it was only her perception that was mistaken, adding that it was not too late now that she knew the truth.
He pledged to be good to her for the rest of his life. Later, Feng Caicai sought out Qin Liufeng to discuss Xiao Bai's recent unsettling behavior. She recounted how Xiao Bai had seemed abnormal when they visited Medical Sage's former residence, a place where he and Chun Hua had first met. Though she left him alone there, she was later attacked by masked men in the bamboo forest.
Xiao Bai had arrived just in time to save her, but to her astonishment, he used the final, powerful move of the Phoenix Cry Blade style, instantly killing all the assailants. Feng Caicai found this action uncharacteristic of Xiao Bai, who was normally thoughtful and righteous and would not kill without understanding the full truth.
She was also surprised that he had not mentioned the ambush to them, finding his silence perplexing even if he were to be missing Chun Hua. Furthermore, she observed that his blade style carried a heavy, almost evil aura, suggesting it was more than just an impulsive act driven by emotion. Qin Liufeng admitted he was unaware of the attack and found Xiao Bai's secrecy puzzling.
The next day, Qin Liufeng questioned Xiao Bai about the bamboo forest ambush, which Xiao Bai casually claimed he had forgotten to mention, attributing it to recent fatigue. They concluded that if someone was still actively trying to impede their investigation into Medical Sage's death, it lessened the likelihood of Chief Feng being the murderer.
To further their investigation into Medical Sage's death and the origins of the puppet silver needles, Xiao Bai, Qin Liufeng, Feng Caicai, and Miss Leng went to the Eight Immortals Mansion to find Medical Sage's brother, Mr. Bu Er. Qin Liufeng inquired if Mr. Bu Er could teach him the art of puppet manipulation, a forbidden technique involving silver needles that Medical Sage had once mentioned.
Mr. Bu Er asserted that he did not possess such a skill, explaining that his brother's comprehensive work detailing the puppet silver needle creation had been stolen nearly a year ago and was now being sold cheaply on the market. He also offered Qin Liufeng a humorous health diagnosis based on his "peach blossom eyes," advising him to be careful of "getting inflamed." As the group left, empty-handed, they encountered Li Yu, a disciple of the Eight Immortals Mansion.
Qin Liufeng expressed surprise that a disciple of Medical Sage was serving tea. Li Yu, acknowledging that Mr. Bu Er and Medical Sage were biological brothers with vastly different temperaments, complained that Mr. Bu Er was exceptionally stingy, unlike his benevolent brother. Li Yu quickly departed, fearing Mr. Bu Er's displeasure.
Recognizing that the puppet silver needles originated from Medical Sage and his medical skills were inherited by the Eight Immortals Mansion, Qin Liufeng suggested a thorough search of the mansion rather than solely focusing on Li Yu, reasoning that Li Yu's continued survival, despite the widespread aftermath of the immortality fruit auction, made him less suspicious.
Xiao Bai agreed, and the group then decided to split up: Qin Liufeng and Miss Leng would pursue clues related to puppets, while Xiao Bai and Feng Caicai would remain near the Eight Immortals Mansion to observe Mr. Bu Er. Later, Chun Hua observed that the light of her Icy Silkworm Beads had grown faint, realizing she hadn't exposed them to moonlight in a long time.
Qiu Yue, holding her hand, jokingly expressed jealousy over her affection for the beads, then promised to be good to her for the rest of his life. Chun Hua asked how he would prove it, looking into his eyes. Although she was happy to know he was her Mr. Right, a sudden worry crept into her mind. She realized that while the system had identified her Mr. Right, it had never guaranteed a good ending for them.
Her face clouded with concern. When Qiu Yue noticed her change in demeanor and asked what was wrong, Chun Hua quickly brushed off his concern and suggested they play a game of "Truth or Dare" instead.
Episode 31 Recap
Chunhua and Qiuyue engaged in a game of truth or dare. Qiuyue consistently won, prompting Chunhua to choose dare when faced with questions she couldn't answer. As a result, she was tasked with repeatedly kissing Qiuyue. Eventually, Chunhua managed to win a round by cheating and seized the opportunity to ask Qiuyue how many times he had lied to her. She declared she would leave immediately if the number exceeded three. Unable to answer, Qiuyue feigned unconsciousness.
While pretending to be in pain from his wound, he softly called out to gauge Chunhua’s concern, which she readily showed, calling him "Brother Qiuyue" and confirming her worry. During their time together, Qiuyue reminded Chunhua that she had once said the first man she saw was her Mr. Right, to which she confirmed he was that man for her. He also brought up the origin of her name, reciting a classic poem, implying he created it.
Chunhua saw through his pretense, pointing out he wasn't the author. Qiuyue then admitted it was written by someone else, who would recite it on the 15th of lunar August every year and then compel him to kill Xiao Yuan. Qiuyue expressed his desire for a future where they would be together forever and have many children. Meanwhile, Qin Liufeng was meticulously changing into his attire.
Leng Ning entered, mockingly asking if he was dressed up for a spring outing rather than an investigation, and chastised him for constantly pairing Feng Caicai with Junior Leader Xiao Bai. Qin Liufeng defended his actions, stating that Feng Caicai was considerate, gentle, and generous, and even had feelings for Xiao Bai. However, he also acknowledged that given her character, Feng Caicai would likely only accept being Xiao Bai's close friend. Leng Ning then questioned their own relationship.
Qin Liufeng expressed his strong desire to travel the martial arts world with her, but pointed out that a person named Li Yu thought they were both men. Infuriated, Leng Ning called him a "scoundrel" and stormed off. Later, Qin Liufeng, Xiao Bai, Feng Caicai, and Leng Ning visited an inn to gather intelligence. Qin Liufeng engaged in overly charming behavior with the inn's beautiful proprietress, ordering all their best dishes.
This quickly angered Leng Ning, who questioned if the establishment was a brothel or a restaurant, and if the proprietress sold food or herself. Declaring she had no appetite, Leng Ning decided to leave. Despite Qin Liufeng's attempts to appease her, she walked out without paying. Xiao Bai then stepped in to settle the bill, and Qin Liufeng added extra money, claiming it was for the proprietress's beauty.
After Xiao Bai and Feng Caicai departed, Qin Liufeng engaged the proprietress in a private conversation. He instructed her to relay a message to her "big boss," Mr. Shi, informing him that Qin Liufeng from Dongshan Sect wished to meet him. The proprietress initially feigned ignorance, claiming she couldn't understand.
Qin Liufeng then revealed his knowledge of the two handsome teenagers who became puppets at the immortality fruit auction, whose parents were horrified to see their lively children turned into mere puppets. He exposed that she had tried to conceal all traces of the incident, but failed to eliminate one family. Qin Liufeng explained that his benevolent father had taken the other family under the protection of Dongshan Sect.
He further explained how he tracked her down: the poor family, desperate from famine, sought to sell their children for food and had met the proprietress. A crucial detail was that the family remembered a distinct "food smell" on her, not perfume, which was unusual for someone from a wealthy family, thus pinpointing her connection to the inn's kitchen. Meanwhile, Star Deputy Chief Ye appeared lost in thought.
Qiuyue materialized before him, commenting on how Gu Wan, unlike others who rebelled for ambition, had rebelled out of deep affection for Star Deputy Chief Ye. Star Deputy Chief Ye falsely claimed to Qiuyue that she had personally executed Gu Wan. Qiuyue then instructed Star Deputy Chief Ye to disseminate news of a rebellion within the Thousand Moon Cave and his own severe injury, explaining that this would cause turmoil among their enemies.
He also stated he preferred Xiao Bai to attack Thousand Moon Cave rather than be killed by Mr. Shi, which could lead to widespread chaos in the martial arts world. Star Deputy Chief Ye then contacted Mr. Shi, who complained that Thousand Moon Cave had abandoned him, leaving him vulnerable to harassment by Xiao Bai's associates, who had even found his henchman and threatened her.
Star Deputy Chief Ye promised to protect him and, as instructed by Qiuyue, informed him about the Thousand Moon Cave's rebellion and Qiuyue's supposed injuries, assuring him that this news would provide him temporary safety. Mr. Shi acknowledged that this information could potentially lure Xiao Bai away, making him safer. Upon their return, Qin Liufeng elaborated on his investigative methods at the inn, detailing his logical deductions, particularly how the "food smell" helped him identify the proprietress.
He expected praise, but Leng Ning harshly criticized him, accusing him of flirting and being experienced in observing women. Qin Liufeng was frustrated, feeling that despite his diligent efforts in the investigation, he had only gained a bad reputation. Feng Caicai and Xiao Bai exchanged amused glances as they watched the two bicker. Feng Caicai playfully suggested that if Leng Ning were to wear women's clothing, she would undoubtedly outshine the "coquettish" proprietress many times over.
Back in the cave, Qiuyue continued to feign illness, with Chunhua playfully chiding him for becoming "delicate" under her care. They reminisced about their past, and Chunhua reminded him of a promise he had made: that she would marry him. Qiuyue claimed he had "expected it." Chunhua also recalled him describing her as "foolish and lovely" in the past. She then realized that Qiuyue was responsible for the poisonous snake that had scared her in the bamboo forest.
Qiuyue, feeling a little embarrassed, offered to "punish" himself by kissing her, so intensely that she felt almost suffocated. Chunhua told him that even if he was "fake," she wanted him to live well for her, to which Qiuyue corrected, "for us." Suddenly, Chunhua screamed upon discovering a skeleton in the cave. Qiuyue immediately rushed to her side, embracing her and covering her eyes, confessing that he had killed the person because they had tried to kill him first.
Chunhua, noticing how quickly he arrived, realized that he had already recovered from his injuries and had been deceiving her for three days. However, she wasn't angry, only asking him to stop such deceptive behavior. Qiuyue admitted he simply wanted more time alone with her, stating that sometimes "it's easy to tell the truth but hard to tell a lie," and that he "racked his brains" daily for her. Chunhua, touched by his explanation, reluctantly forgave him.
Chunhua, repeatedly sneezing, told Qiuyue she couldn't endure the cold like him and urged him to leave the cave. As they walked out hand-in-hand, Chunhua confessed that since meeting Qiuyue, she had developed more fears. Qiuyue promised to shield her from all her worries. Chunhua, in turn, pleaded with Qiuyue to stop killing, emphasizing how dangerous his actions were. Qiuyue then asked her what she would do if he were to be injured and trapped again.
Chunhua bravely declared that she would ensure she stayed alive to save him once more, insisting that martial arts were not the sole determinant of victory. She then questioned why he was so insistent on being a "devil." Qiuyue explained that it was the only way to ensure no one could harm him and Chunhua. Chunhua, however, confided in him that all she truly desired was a stable life, not just safety, a revelation that visibly moved Qiuyue.
Episode 32 Recap
Leng Ning, contemplating the idea of wearing women's clothes as discussed previously, expressed a preference for her current masculine attire, fearing that looking pretty would attract too much unwanted attention. Suddenly, Qin Liufeng arrived at her door, seeking to apologize for his previous behavior and bearing a gift. He explained that his gift, a dress, was a sincere gesture, hoping she would accept it as a step towards their mutual understanding.
Though Leng Ning initially rejected the dress as "ragged clothes" and told him to leave, she quickly reopened the door to retrieve it, leaving Qin Liufeng bewildered. He then stood outside, practicing compliments, struggling to find the right words to describe her anticipated beauty. Before he could perfect his speech, Leng Ning emerged, transformed by the simple dress, which seemed to gain a soul as she wore it.
Qin Liufeng was utterly mesmerized, momentarily speechless, and even wondered if he was dreaming. Leng Ning found his reaction amusing, playfully telling him not to joke and to focus on their important matters. Xiao Bai, having retrieved an important account book from a restaurant by breaking a back window—a method quite unlike his usual disdain for such tactics—presented it to Feng Caicai. The book contained all the business records of the Eight Immortals Mansion.
The restaurant owner, having discovered the broken window, immediately reported it to Mr. Shi, who was furious with his subordinate, the proprietress, for the lapse in security, lamenting his earlier reluctance to eliminate her when given the chance, as she had immediately caused trouble. Xiao Bai and Feng Caicai then took the account book to Qin Liufeng and Leng Ning, finding Qin Liufeng completely captivated by Leng Ning's new appearance.
Feng Caicai playfully remarked on Qin Liufeng's obvious admiration for Leng Ning. Xiao Bai proposed that they go to Eight Immortals City to further observe the situation. Sensing an opportunity to provide Qin Liufeng and Leng Ning with some privacy, Feng Caicai readily agreed to accompany Xiao Bai. Qin Liufeng offered a silent gesture of gratitude to them as they departed.
Chun Hua and Shangguan Qiuyue shared an intimate moment in the grass, Chun Hua playfully likening herself to a "small loach" and Shangguan Qiuyue to a "white loach." Shangguan Qiuyue relished their time together, expressing a desire for such happiness every day, which Chun Hua eagerly made him promise. Chun Hua, feeling restless on the mountain, suggested they go down for a stroll, remarking that she now preferred the beautiful, vibrant lotus to dandelions.
Shangguan Qiuyue agreed, teasingly hoping she wouldn't discard any clothes this time. On their way to the city, Chun Hua worried about being seen by others, but Shangguan Qiuyue confidently assured her he could disguise them. He transformed himself into a passerby they had recently encountered. However, a young child soon approached, mistaking Shangguan Qiuyue for his father and questioning where he had gone.
The child then spotted Chun Hua and, assuming his "dad" was with another woman, threatened to tell his mother. Shangguan Qiuyue menacingly threatened to cut out the child's tongue, terrifying the boy, who fled, labeling Shangguan Qiuyue a "bad man" and vowing his real father would exact revenge. Chun Hua chastised Shangguan Qiuyue for scaring the child, to which he flippantly suggested taking the boy to Thousand Moon Cave as their son and giving him medicine to forget.
Chun Hua was horrified by such a "madman" idea of "grabbing a son," prompting Shangguan Qiuyue to laugh and propose they simply have many children of their own, which Chun Hua playfully chided him for. Before continuing their outing, Chun Hua also made him remove his mustache. Later, Chun Hua and Shangguan Qiuyue ventured into a jade shop, feeling it was safer than the street and less likely to encounter Xiao Bai. Chun Hua immediately inquired about couple jade pendants.
Her eyes lit up when she found a white jade pendant with Shangguan Qiuyue's name engraved on it, remarking on her "sharp eyes." Shangguan Qiuyue, pleased, immediately took the pendant and attempted to leave without paying. The shopkeeper quickly intervened, demanding payment, only for both Chun Hua and Shangguan Qiuyue to realize they had no money on them. Chun Hua tried to arrange credit, but the shopkeeper refused.
Shangguan Qiuyue, growing impatient, declared he would take it by force, even suggesting he "can grab it," which provoked the shopkeeper to accuse him of intent to "kill and rob." Seeing Shangguan Qiuyue's eyes darken with murderous intent, Chun Hua quickly stepped in, calming the shopkeeper and apologetically explaining that her "brother" was "insane." However, she then realized she also lacked funds.
Shangguan Qiuyue, amused, retorted that she must also be "insane" for being with him, a point Chun Hua conceded. Despite their predicament, Shangguan Qiuyue insisted on obtaining the jade pendant Chun Hua had chosen for him. Chun Hua agreed to return to fetch the money, instructing Shangguan Qiuyue to "be obedient" and wait patiently in the shop. Xiao Bai and Feng Caicai continued their investigation at the Eight Immortals Mansion, observing for any unusual activity.
They soon encountered Li Yu, burdened with a large load of herbs. Feng Caicai questioned him, asking why the Eight Immortals Mansion was acquiring so many herbs when they already had an abundance. A visibly agitated Li Yu revealed that a major incident had occurred in Thousand Moon Cave: one of its star deputy chiefs had led a rebellion, collaborating with the remaining disciples from Legend Valley to severely injure Shangguan Qiuyue, who was now missing.
Li Yu added that Mr. Bu Er had been delighted by this news, viewing it as a lucrative "business opportunity" to buy up all the herbs in the city and then sell them at an inflated price, even if it meant earning "devil's money." Xiao Bai, deeply concerned upon hearing about the Thousand Moon Cave rebellion, immediately inquired about Chun Hua.
Li Yu, while having no specific news about her, grimly speculated that if Shangguan Qiuyue was missing, those close to him would likely face a similarly grim fate. The devastating news of Chun Hua's potential danger caused Xiao Bai to become violently agitated. Overwhelmed by distress, his eyes reddened as he seemed to become possessed by a dark energy. He muttered despairingly, seeing her possible peril as the consequence of her choice to align with "the devil."
In a moment of intense emotional turmoil, he cut his hand with a knife, and with bloodied lips, he recited a sorrowful line about willows and spring flowers reminding him of his hatred, wondering when he would meet her again. He then declared that if Chun Hua survived, he would settle scores with her after personally eliminating Shangguan Qiuyue. Following this, he collapsed, spitting blood.
As Chun Hua headed back to retrieve money, she encountered Gu Wan, who claimed to have lost his martial arts and become a "useless man." He informed her that Shangguan Qiuyue was merely using her, and if she doubted him, she could have Shangguan Qiuyue kill him, as he was now powerless to resist.
Gu Wan further asserted that he had intentionally allowed her to escape Thousand Moon Cave previously, seeing a reflection of his own "simple and emotional" nature in her. He recounted his own past desperation in Thousand Moon Cave, explaining it was solely to make Ye Yan understand his love, and warned Chun Hua not to suffer a tragic fate like his own by trusting an undeserving man.
Convinced by Gu Wan's words, a heartbroken Chun Hua wandered aimlessly through the streets. Meanwhile, Feng Caicai, accompanied by Qin Liufeng and Leng Ning, spotted Chun Hua alone. Qin Liufeng approached her, revealing Xiao Bai's intense longing for her and his critical condition, having spit blood and fainted from extreme worry over the Thousand Moon Cave rebellion. Chun Hua was visibly shocked and deeply concerned by this news.
At that moment, Shangguan Qiuyue appeared, demanding to know what Qin Liufeng was doing with Chun Hua, accusing him of illicit intentions. Chun Hua sharply told Shangguan Qiuyue it was none of his concern. Noticing Chun Hua's coldness and sudden temper, Shangguan Qiuyue suspiciously suggested that she and Qin Liufeng were mutually attracted, implying he had interrupted their private moment. Angered, Chun Hua defiantly admitted it.
Shangguan Qiuyue then forcibly pulled Chun Hua away, returning with her to Thousand Moon Cave. A heated argument ensued. Shangguan Qiuyue angrily demanded to know what Qin Liufeng had "fed" her to make her treat him so coldly, accusing her of faking affection only to manipulate him. Chun Hua retorted that he was the one who desired a "puppet" he could easily control, not a living person, revealing that "he just told me everything that you did to me."
Shangguan Qiuyue dismissed this as a lie, branding her a "fool" and claiming Qin Liufeng, being from Fengming Manor, knew nothing. He then suspected Xiao Bai of maliciously stirring up trouble between them, calling Xiao Bai ignoble and unworthy. However, Chun Hua clarified that neither Xiao Bai nor Qin Liufeng had revealed these truths to her; it was Gu Wan. Xiao Bai lay unconscious, prompting Mr. Bu Er to begin treating him. Feng Caicai, however, harbored suspicions.
While she couldn't refuse Mr. Bu Er, given that Li Yu had summoned him, all their previous investigations pointed towards the Eight Immortals Mansion. She feared that if Mr. Shi truly was connected to the mansion, he might intend to harm Xiao Bai. Mr. Bu Er examined Xiao Bai, confirming his pulse was stable and there were no internal injuries to his heart or lungs.
He attributed Xiao Bai's condition to intense worry over Chun Hua, causing his vital qi to go awry and blood to rush upwards, advising that rest would restore his energy. Mr. Bu Er then prepared a "spirit-quieting decoction" to help Xiao Bai. Feng Caicai intervened, stating that while the decoction would calm him, Xiao Bai needed to remain alert, and she subtly declined further medical assistance, confident that his martial arts training would soon lead to his recovery.
Mr. Bu Er, still insistent, warned about potential complications, but Leng Ning then "accidentally" dropped and shattered the bowl of decoction. Shortly after, Xiao Bai stirred awake, immediately asking for Chun Hua and attempting to rise to go to her. Just then, Qin Liufeng entered, reassuring Xiao Bai that he had indeed seen Chun Hua, and she was "safe and fine," which brought immense relief to Xiao Bai. They then decided to return to Fengming Manor.
Episode 33 Recap
After Xiao Bai woke up, he urgently searched for news of Chunhua. He encountered Qin Liufeng, who had just returned, and was assured by Qin Liufeng that Chunhua was unharmed, a fact both Qin Liufeng and Leng Ning could confirm. Xiao Bai initially felt relieved, but then questioned why Chunhua had not been brought back. When he realized Shangguan Qiuyue might still be with her, Xiao Bai's emotions spiraled out of control.
He declared that if he could not be with Chunhua in life, they should share a grave in death, even wishing to kill her so she could be buried in his ancestral tomb. Feng Caicai and Qin Liufeng were forced to knock Xiao Bai unconscious. Qin Liufeng suggested Xiao Bai's condition was more than mere lovesickness, noting how he had transformed, similar to his demeanor when he massacred assassins in the bamboo forest.
Leng Ning, harboring suspicions, had the spirit-quieting decoction Xiao Bai had been taking analyzed. It was discovered that a medicinal ingredient, raw monkshood, had been added. While normally beneficial for common people to nourish yin and tonify yang, this ingredient was detrimental to Xiao Bai, whose Fengming Swordsmanship cultivated pure yang vital qi. It would be like adding fuel to a fire, exacerbating his condition. Leng Ning suspected either Mr. Bu Er or Li Yu for this deliberate act.
Taking advantage of the situation, Qin Liufeng visited Mr. Bu Er to request the decoction's prescription, which Mr. Bu Er readily provided, claiming he had already anticipated their need and prepared a fresh batch. Qin Liufeng, Feng Caicai, and Leng Ning discussed Xiao Bai's deteriorating mental state, observing that he was sometimes lucid and sometimes delirious. They realized that Xiao Bai's earlier suspicion was correct: Shangguan Qiuyue had indeed abducted Chunhua.
Qin Liufeng deduced that Shangguan Qiuyue's repeated schemes against Xiao Bai indicated his profound understanding of the junior leader. They concluded that Shangguan Qiuyue had likely fabricated news of his own injury to divert their attention and deliver a severe blow to Xiao Bai, leading to his current possessed state. As their immediate priority, they decided to locate Mr. Shi to uncover the truth, with Qin Liufeng offering to go to Eight Immortals Mansion.
Meanwhile, in Thousand Moon Cave, Chunhua confronted Shangguan Qiuyue. She revealed that Gu Wan, whom Ye Yan believed to have killed, was alive and had informed her of all Shangguan Qiuyue's manipulations. Shangguan Qiuyue expressed disappointment in Ye Yan for her failure. When Shangguan Qiuyue claimed to understand everything Chunhua had experienced since he was the first person she saw, Chunhua vehemently denied trusting him, asserting she only trusted herself and her own experiences.
She then methodically recounted how Shangguan Qiuyue had used her: first, by having her infiltrate Fengming Manor to steal cultivation methods; second, by using her to confirm Fu Lou's weakness, You Si, leading to their deaths in Legend Valley; third, by kidnapping her to Thousand Moon Cave during the immortality fruit auction, causing chaos and many casualties by diverting Xiao Bai’s attention; fourth, by denying poisoning Feng Qianwei with Dandelion while possessing the antidote in his own cave; and fifth, by orchestrating the release of the Guilty Confession Letter through Mr. Shi, which ultimately led to the deaths of Fu Lou and You Si and her separation from Xiao Bai, directly contributing to Xiao Bai's current illness.
Chunhua accused him of using her purely for his ambition to dominate the martial arts world, not out of any genuine affection. Shangguan Qiuyue maintained his actions were out of love, designed to make her see Xiao Bai clearly, but Chunhua retorted that she was now useless to him and demanded her freedom. Attempting to sway Chunhua, Shangguan Qiuyue brought her to an ancient Ice Valley, revealing a secret passage built by the former Thousand Moon Cave Chief, Nan Xinghe.
He recounted the history: Nan Xinghe had once sworn brotherhood with Xiao Min, Xiao Bai's ancestor and the first Wulin Alliance Leader. Even after discovering Xiao Min was an undercover agent, Nan Xinghe did not harm him, showcasing a character superior to the orthodox sects.
However, Xiao Min later betrayed Nan Xinghe by tricking him into negotiations with the orthodox sects, which resulted in Nan Xinghe's death at 33 and the brutal massacre of hundreds of thousands of Star Moon Sect members, including Nan Xinghe's infant son. Shangguan Qiuyue questioned Chunhua on the nature of good and evil.
While Chunhua defined good as helping people and evil as reckless killing, Shangguan Qiuyue argued that the "evil sect" label was merely a tool used by the Wulin Alliance to control dissenting factions. Chunhua ultimately recognized that Nan Xinghe was targeted and killed because his immense power threatened the martial arts world's balance. Shangguan Qiuyue defended his methods as necessary to bring order to a chaotic world.
Despite his pleas, admitting his manipulations stemmed from love and offering to protect her forever, even allowing her to "use" him, Chunhua remained unyielding, her only request being to leave. As Shangguan Qiuyue prepared to send Chunhua away from Thousand Moon Cave, Gu Wan appeared before Ye Yan. He stated that he had done what was necessary, claiming to have removed an "eyesore" for her.
Ye Yan, uneasy, pressed him for details, but Gu Wan only promised she would soon understand and thank him, adding that he did not want her to suffer the pain of unrequited love as he had. Recalling their first meeting by a lotus pond, Gu Wan then shockingly used Ye Yan's own sword to stab himself in the heart, leaving her stunned and dropping her weapon.
Shangguan Qiuyue and Chunhua discovered Ye Yan still frozen in shock near Gu Wan's body. Shangguan Qiuyue, suspicious of Ye Yan's loyalty due to her past tardiness during Gu Wan's rebellion, considered killing her. Chunhua swiftly intervened, reminding him that Ye Yan was his only remaining companion. Shangguan Qiuyue, overcome with a deep sadness, lamented his perpetual solitude, noting that while Chunhua had once been his companion, she too was now leaving.
He told Chunhua that if she left Thousand Moon Cave, she could no longer make demands of him unless she chose to stay by his side. Chunhua, addressing him as "brother" one last time, refused the offer, acknowledging Shangguan Qiuyue's ability to manipulate her through his love. Shangguan Qiuyue then informed Ye Yan that Gu Wan's actions necessitated Chunhua's departure from Thousand Moon Cave.
When Ye Yan questioned what Gu Wan had done, Shangguan Qiuyue simply gestured to the corpse and warned Ye Yan to prepare a compelling explanation for her loyalty before he returned, explicitly forbidding her from dying.
Episode 34 Recap
Following previous suspicions about Xiao Bai's calming soup, the ingredients were analyzed, revealing a problematic addition. The investigation implicated Mr. Bu Er and raised suspicions about Li Yu. Li Yu arrived at Fengming Manor to examine Xiao Bai. Feng Caicai expressed her concern over Xiao Bai's condition, prompting Li Yu to inquire about when Xiao Bai began acting abnormally.
Feng Caicai recalled that Xiao Bai's behavior changed the day after his wedding to Chunhua, particularly after he angrily gave the Magical Ice Stone to Shangguan Qiuyue. Li Yu, after examining Xiao Bai's pulse, concluded that he was not simply suffering from qi deviation but seemed to be experiencing mental confusion, suspecting an issue with the mental cultivation method he practiced.
Feng Caicai adamantly rejected this, insisting that the Fengming Blade cultivation method, passed down through the Xiao family for hundreds of years, could not be flawed. Li Yu noted that only the late Senior Leader Xiao Yuan and Xiao Bai had mastered the last movement of the Whistling Fengming Blade technique, suggesting there might be a deeper reason behind Xiao Bai's current state. Meanwhile, Shangguan Qiuyue was sending Chunhua away from Thousand Moon Cave.
Chunhua expressed her deep distrust of Shangguan Qiuyue, accusing him of manipulating her every move and thought. Shangguan Qiuyue admitted to having used her but insisted he truly loved her and had been waiting for her. Chunhua, however, firmly told him she no longer loved him. Disbelieving her, Shangguan Qiuyue attempted to confirm her feelings by forcefully kissing her. Chunhua resisted but was suddenly wracked with pain.
He discovered a flower-shaped mark on her palm and recognized it as the "Quenchless Love" poison, confirming that Gu Star Deputy Chief had administered it and that it was a potent, incurable toxin. Despite being poisoned, Chunhua remained determined to leave him, solidifying her rejection. Enraged by Chunhua's poisoning, Shangguan Qiuyue confronted Star Deputy Chief Ye about the "Quenchless Love" poison.
Star Deputy Chief Ye explained it was a special poison for Thousand Moon Cave chiefs, meant to prevent them from falling in love and diverting from their grand ambitions. She described how the poison, once consumed, would cause heart pain upon falling in love, escalating to agonizing pain like ten thousand ants gnawing at bones and eventually death if the emotional attachment persisted.
Shangguan Qiuyue, furious, blamed Star Deputy Chief Ye for her leniency towards Star Deputy Chief Gu, asserting that Gu was responsible for Chunhua being poisoned and losing the ability to love him. Star Deputy Chief Ye offered to be imprisoned in Ice Valley as punishment, stating her belief that Chunhua could not help but love Shangguan Qiuyue. Hearing this, Shangguan Qiuyue calmed down and spared her.
Chunhua returned to Fengming Manor with Qin Liufeng, who informed her that Xiao Bai might be suffering from qi deviation and had his acupoints sealed to prevent him from harming himself or others. Chunhua immediately asked him to unseal Xiao Bai's acupoints, but Feng Caicai intervened, warning Chunhua that Xiao Bai had been aggressive since his condition worsened and had even threatened to kill her.
As Chunhua held the Fengming Blade, she noticed its unusual sound, different from its usual clear and pleasant tone. She recalled Xiao Bai's past confession of love, Shangguan Qiuyue's dramatic interference on her wedding day, and her own self-reflection that she was "evil" for colluding with the devil. She acknowledged that Xiao Bai had every reason to hate her. Chunhua, still holding the Fengming Blade, remarked on its abnormal sound.
Feng Caicai then relayed Li Yu's suspicion that Xiao Bai's condition might be linked to the blade technique he practiced, noting his first manifestation of abnormality occurred when he used the last movement of the Fengming Blade technique. They concluded that the Fengming Blade's "demonic nature" and Xiao Bai's deteriorating state were caused by the absence of the Magical Ice Stone, as the blade, its cultivation method, and the stone were all necessary to master its final movement.
Elsewhere, Shangguan Qiuyue remembered a white jade hairpin he wore when he first met Chunhua and asked Star Deputy Chief Ye to put it on him. He alluded to the intertwined fate of two "ice silkworm beads," implying a connection that would affect them both if one were to perish. He then expressed a newfound understanding, seemingly realizing that the Quenchless Love poison, originally thought to be a curse, might actually be a way to keep Chunhua tied to him.
Xiao Bai slowly regained consciousness and saw Chunhua sitting at his table. He downplayed his condition, attributing it to a temporary deviation of vital qi, but Chunhua knew it was due to the Magical Ice Stone. Xiao Bai adamantly stated he would rather never use his Fengming Blade again than accept the Magical Ice Stone from Thousand Moon Cave.
Chunhua pleaded with Qin Liufeng to persuade Xiao Bai to accept the stone, explaining that without it, Xiao Bai, who had dedicated his life to orthodox sects and justice, would go mad from being unable to use his beloved Fengming Blade. Qin Liufeng then challenged Chunhua to choose between the orthodox and evil sects, between Shangguan Qiuyue and Xiao Bai, but Chunhua insisted she had no power to choose.
Star Deputy Chief Ye reported to Shangguan Qiuyue that Xiao Bai had suffered qi deviation, and Mr. Shi had attempted to harm him again, though his methods were ineffective due to Star Deputy Chief Gu's death. She also revealed disturbing discoveries of more than ten children's remains and potent liquid medicine in Mr. Shi's hideout, testifying to his extreme cruelty.
When Star Deputy Chief Ye asked if she should eliminate Mr. Shi, Shangguan Qiuyue refused, stating that Chunhua disapproved of unnecessary killing and that it would be more "interesting" to watch Mr. Shi descend into madness and be witnessed by more people. Shangguan Qiuyue then questioned Star Deputy Chief Ye about her leniency towards Star Deputy Chief Gu. He revealed that Star Deputy Chief Gu had been tempted by promises of property from Mr. Shi.
Shangguan Qiuyue now seemed to understand Star Deputy Chief Ye's actions, forgiving her and instructing her to remain obediently in Thousand Moon Cave. Xiao Bai apologized to Chunhua for the past events involving Fu Lou and Lady You Si, expressing his happiness at her return. He then asked if she would mind if he could no longer use the Fengming Blade or protect her.
Chunhua, understanding the profound significance of the blade to him, replied she would not mind but then declared her intention to retrieve the Magical Ice Stone for him. Upon hearing this, Xiao Bai's eyes turned sinister, believing she would seek Shangguan Qiuyue. He tightly embraced her, his grip tightening as he became possessed once more. Just as he leaned towards her menacingly, Shangguan Qiuyue appeared, striking Xiao Bai unconscious.
Shangguan Qiuyue moved to kill Xiao Bai for harming Chunhua, but Chunhua’s soft call of "Brother" brought him back to his senses, and he spared Xiao Bai. Shangguan Qiuyue then noticed the flower-shaped mark on Chunhua’s hand, noting its color was still vibrant like before, which pleased him greatly as it confirmed her affection for him.
Shangguan Qiuyue sealed Chunhua's acupoints and, believing she could not hear him, mused aloud about how "Quenchless Love" would ensure she would only have him in her heart, not Xiao Bai. He reaffirmed that there was no antidote to the poison, and therefore he would not let her experience strong emotions easily, nor would he casually take liberties with her. After unsealing her acupoints, Chunhua immediately demanded the Magical Ice Stone for Xiao Bai.
Shangguan Qiuyue was angered that her first thought was of another man rather than her own poisoning. Chunhua defiantly stated she was trying her best not to love him. Enraged, Shangguan Qiuyue threatened to destroy the Magical Ice Stone. Chunhua fiercely retorted that he was cowardly for using her to provoke Xiao Bai, urging him to confront Xiao Bai honorably. Shangguan Qiuyue, noting her contradictory stance, simply observed that she loved him yet protected Xiao Bai, saying, "Sister, you are truly conflicted."
Episode 35 Recap
Chun Hua is suffering from Quenchless Love, a potent poison with no known antidote. She makes a deal with Qiu Yue to return the Magical Ice Stone to Xiao Bai, who has fallen ill without it and can no longer use his Fengming Sword. In exchange, Chun Hua promises to stay with Qiu Yue until the Quenchless Love poison takes its full effect.
Qiu Yue, having observed her pain as a reaction to the poison, is satisfied, seeing it as confirmation of her true feelings. Chun Hua expresses apprehension about surviving the poison after delivering the stone, but Qiu Yue dismisses her fears, declaring that even if she dies, he will keep her by his side, freezing her in Ice Valley. Chun Hua then calls him a pervert.
Star Deputy Chief Ye reports to Qiu Yue that Chun Hua has been returned to Fengming Manor. Qiu Yue confirms that allowing Xiao Bai to lose the Magical Ice Stone was part of their original strategy, but its return doesn't derail his plans. He explains that forcing Xiao Bai, the Leader of the Wulin Alliance, to depend on Thousand Moon Cave's Magical Ice Stone for his Fengming Sword is strategically amusing.
Qiu Yue also instructs Star Deputy Chief Ye to reveal information about Mr. Shi's recent misbehavior to Xiao Bai, believing such clues are more impactful when revealed. Chun Hua entrusts the Magical Ice Stone to Qin Liufeng, who then transfers it to Xiao Bai using his internal energy. Qin Liufeng immediately deduces that Chun Hua must have made another deal with Qiu Yue.
Chun Hua clarifies that nothing, no condition, is more important than the Fengming Sword's significance to Xiao Bai, ensuring both Xiao Bai's recovery and the legacy of Fengming Swordsmanship are secured. Qin Liufeng then comments on Shangguan Qiuyue's consistent presence whenever Chun Hua is in trouble. He notes the complex and restrictive nature of Thousand Moon Cave's entrance, which usually only allows followers to enter or exit, yet Chun Hua seems to move freely.
Chun Hua quietly reveals that Qiu Yue waits for her at the entrance every time. Qin Liufeng then recounts that he and others witnessed a man in white taking Chun Hua away the previous day, presuming it was Qiu Yue. Upon failing to catch them, they found Xiao Bai collapsed. Qin Liufeng speculates that Xiao Bai may have offended Chun Hua, explaining that he cannot control himself during his attacks, and asks for her forgiveness.
He assures her that Xiao Bai will soon recover and suggests she stay by his side, which Chun Hua agrees to do. The next day, Xiao Bai awakens to find Chun Hua waiting by the table. He instinctively embraces her but quickly pulls back, apologizing for his inappropriate behavior. He realizes the Magical Ice Stone has been returned to him, expressing self-loathing for ultimately failing to escape the influence of Thousand Moon Cave.
Taking a knife, he cuts a piece of paper in half, signifying his decision that it is time to part ways with Chun Hua. He then wonders aloud where he should go, now that everyone else has returned. With Xiao Bai's recovery, everyone celebrates. They visit a black restaurant where Qin Liufeng engages in a playful exchange with the madam, who acknowledges her past as a suspect but claims to be a changed businesswoman.
Feeling uncomfortable, Chun Hua steps out for a walk. Feng Caicai follows her, expressing her gladness at Chun Hua's return and her belief that Xiao Bai will treat her well.
Chun Hua confides in Feng Caicai that they are fundamentally different: Feng Caicai, like others in the martial arts world, upholds Wulin morality, but Chun Hua, unable to practice kung fu and disliking violence, yearns only for a simple, peaceful life and a love that is unreserved and free of calculation or sacrifice.
Feng Caicai explains that Xiao Bai's role as the junior leader of Wulin orthodox sects means he shoulders the responsibility of maintaining order and ensuring the well-being of all, including those without martial arts skills. She argues that the Wulin Alliance works collectively towards this goal.
Chun Hua then brings up Xiao Bai's past willingness to abandon Fengming Swordsmanship and the Magical Ice Stone, pondering if it might be better for him to forsake the rigid adherence to morality and simply be himself. Feng Caicai counters that the Fengming Sword is integral to Xiao Bai's commitment to morality; abandoning it would lead to lifelong guilt, thus validating Chun Hua's action of returning the Magical Ice Stone to him.
As Chun Hua reflects alone in a bamboo grove, Qiu Yue suddenly appears. He playfully teases her for waiting for him and expresses awareness of her discomfort with his coldness and her dislike for life in Thousand Moon Cave. When Chun Hua voices her aversion to staying there, Qiu Yue questions if she regrets their deal and wants to leave Xiao Bai.
Chun Hua retorts that breaking promises is typically his habit, not hers, and assures him she will never regret being with him. Qiu Yue reaffirms his growing love for her, promising to develop an antidote for Quenchless Love within days and take her back to Thousand Moon Cave five days later, citing their agreement. He believes her reaction to Quenchless Love indicates her true feelings, despite her sometimes contradictory words.
Star Deputy Chief Ye reports to Qiu Yue, apologizing for his delay due to escaping the tight surveillance by Fengming Manor disciples in Eight Immortals City. Qiu Yue acknowledges Xiao Bai's strategic deployment of forces in both Eight Immortals City and Fengming Manor but remains confident that the orthodox sects will ultimately destroy each other, leaving Thousand Moon Cave unharmed. He then expresses concern, remembering that Chun Hua dislikes death, and confirms that the desired clues have been disseminated.
Star Deputy Chief Ye informs him that Li Yu, a gambler Qiu Yue previously saved by promising to help his mother, has also gone to meet Feng Caicai. Qiu Yue remarks that Feng Caicai is a good girl and must not be allowed to stay with Xiao Bai, ordering Star Deputy Chief Ye to ensure she is kept away.
Despite Star Deputy Chief Ye's warning about Xiao Bai's strong presence in Eight Immortals City and urging caution, Qiu Yue remains unconcerned. Star Deputy Chief Ye explains his recent preoccupation by mentioning his search for an antidote to Quenchless Love, but Qiu Yue abruptly forbids any further mention of it. Qin Liufeng complains to Leng Ning about having to check accounts, expressing his desire for a leisurely life.
Leng Ning, in response, updates him on the grave situation: Thousand Moon Cave's forces have gathered early, prompting Xiao Bai to strategize with other chiefs for an inevitable fierce battle. She also notes the new clue about Mr. Shi and Thousand Moon Cave's eagerness for conflict, sensing a larger plot.
Amidst their discussion, Feng Caicai proudly announces that she has purchased an interesting book: "Secret Medical Skills" by Medical Sage of Eight Immortals Medicine Hall, specifically the one rumored to contain the making method of puppet silver needles. She explains that she sought it out after seeing other martial arts manuals for sale.
However, Qin Liufeng, who has studied under Medical Sage, quickly identifies numerous errors in the book, even in a simple prescription for spirit-quieting decoction attributed to Mr. Bu Er. He notes the book also lacks any mention of puppet silver needle creation, making Mr. Bu Er highly suspicious.
Shortly after, Qin Liufeng reveals that he overheard Li Yu and the restaurant madam discussing "puppet boys" and discovered a silver needle capable of turning fresh corpses into puppets, leading him to question whether Li Yu or Mr. Bu Er is actually Mr. Shi. A waiter then informs Feng Caicai that a Mr. Li is looking for her. Feng Caicai goes to the bamboo forest to meet Li Yu.
She confronts him about the discovery of silver needles in the restaurant kitchen, questioning how he can deny using them and accusing him of being Mr. Shi. Li Yu implies he is being forced to act against his will, explaining that his loved ones are being threatened. He then provides crucial information, recalling that both Qin Liufeng and Fu Lou previously investigated a man named Zhong collecting fresh corpses, a false surname often derived from a person's real identity.
He advises Feng Caicai to expand her investigation beyond just the restaurant's accounts to include all properties belonging to Eight Immortals Mansion within Eight Immortals City, as Mr. Shi must have become wealthy after the immortality fruit auction. Feng Caicai quickly comprehends the significance of his words. Later, Qin Liufeng, hearing about Feng Caicai's progress, playfully complains to Leng Ning that his romantic rivals are always women, not men, and Leng Ning jokes that she could have them both.
Episode 36 Recap
Feng Caicai returned with all the account books from Eight Immortals City's businesses. She explained how she achieved this feat, stating that operators of restaurants and teahouses, fearing a ruined reputation, were easily swayed by a tactful approach, while the tough men of escort agencies yielded to gentle requests. Cosmetics shops, being small businesses, provided their books for a little kindness.
The heavily protected money shops were the hardest, but cooperated after explaining the risks and implications with integrity and generosity. Xiao Bai, witnessing her success, lamented his own perceived uselessness. Feng Caicai reminded him of his crucial role as the Leader of Wulin Alliance and his responsibility.
As Qin Liufeng and Leng Ning began verifying the accounts, they noticed the figures from the immortality fruit auction indicated Mr. Shi had received millions of taels, yet Eight Immortals Mansion wasn't nearly as rich as expected, hinting at hidden wealth. Suddenly, Xiao Bai heard a commotion outside and rushed out to find Chun Hua collapsed on the ground. He immediately urged Qin Liufeng to summon Doctor Bu Er.
Qin Liufeng expressed concern, suspecting Bu Er might be the elusive Mr. Shi, but given Bu Er's renowned medical skills, and with Feng Caicai's agreement, Xiao Bai insisted on his presence. Upon examining Chun Hua, Bu Er declared she wasn't injured but poisoned, a poison he claimed was "unheard of." Xiao Bai, agitated, immediately suspected Shangguan Qiuyue.
Bu Er offered to have Li Yu prepare a decoction, but Xiao Bai, doubting Li Yu's skills for such a serious poison, demanded Bu Er prepare it personally. Feng Caicai then privately informed Xiao Bai that she had spoken with Li Yu, who revealed the individual dealing with corpses was surnamed Zhong.
Feng Caicai, suspecting Bu Er due to the phonetic similarity of "Bu Er" to "Zhong" in "Bo Zhong Shu," questioned the wisdom of allowing him to administer Chun Hua's medicine. Xiao Bai, however, saw an opportunity. He reasoned that since Chun Hua had managed to retrieve the Magical Ice Stone from Shangguan Qiuyue, it suggested Qiuyue held her in special regard and likely only meant to control her, not kill her.
He decided to allow Bu Er to administer the medicine, believing that if Bu Er did indeed add poison, they would have definitive proof of his identity as Mr. Shi. Though Feng Caicai expressed misgivings, Xiao Bai assured her he would ensure Chun Hua's safety and prevent the situation from spiraling out of control. Meanwhile, Qin Liufeng had a private conversation with his cousin, Ye Yan, a Star Deputy Chief from Thousand Moon Cave.
Ye Yan shared her tragic backstory, explaining that she was saved by Shangguan Qiuyue after her family's demise, and her father had been pressured by Senior Leader Xiao to conceal the truth. She revealed that Chun Hua was afflicted with a poison called Quenchless Love, which would only activate if she harbored deep feelings. She also confirmed Shangguan Qiuyue's presence in the vicinity.
Later, as Bu Er prepared to administer the medicine, Feng Caicai gave Chun Hua a precious snow lotus seed, instructing her to take it to alleviate the poison's effects. Chun Hua, touched by Feng Caicai's generosity, expressed her regret, admitting she knew Feng Caicai was well-suited for Xiao Bai and deserved his affection. Feng Caicai, with genuine sincerity, told Chun Hua she truly wished her and Xiao Bai happiness.
Qin Liufeng instructed Leng Ning and Feng Caicai about Chun Hua's condition. Leng Ning recounted Ye Yan's warning that a flower-shaped pattern would appear on Chun Hua's palm, turning black and causing a painful death if she were to experience deep emotions. They decided to conceal the truth from Xiao Bai to spare him additional worry. Moments later, Xiao Bai arrived, vehemently asserting that Shangguan Qiuyue was behind Chun Hua's poisoning.
He vowed to find Qiuyue to obtain the antidote, emphasizing his desire to protect Chun Hua from further entanglement in their conflict. Late into the night, Chun Hua was alone in her room, while Xiao Bai stood vigil in the courtyard, watching her window. When her lamp extinguished, he assumed she had safely fallen asleep and felt a sense of relief. Unbeknownst to him, Shangguan Qiuyue had visited Chun Hua.
He noticed the vibrant color of the flower-shaped mark on Chun Hua’s palm had faded, mistakenly concluding she hadn't been thinking of him. Chun Hua explained it was due to the snow lotus seed she had consumed, not a lack of affection for him. As she spoke with emotion, the Quenchless Love poison flared up, causing her to cry out in pain. Hearing her distress, Xiao Bai became alarmed and rushed to her door, anxiously inquiring about her well-being.
Chun Hua, panicking, quickly concealed Shangguan Qiuyue behind the bed curtains. Feng Caicai, also alerted by Xiao Bai's worried calls, arrived and entered the room. Her eyes fell upon a pair of men's boots near the bed, and realizing the unusual circumstances, she quietly withdrew. Shangguan Qiuyue then informed Chun Hua that Bu Er would host a dinner in three days, where the food would contain knockout drops.
He warned her not to eat, stating he wouldn't be able to save her if she were to be poisoned again. Meanwhile, Ye Yan reported to Shangguan Qiuyue that all the star deputy chiefs and moon servants of Thousand Moon Cave had gathered outside Eight Immortals City, and that the orthodox sects were aware of their movements. Shangguan Qiuyue declared his intention to act openly, asserting that those who control the martial arts realm should do so without impediment.
He expressed frustration with Fengming Manor's slow progress in locating Mr. Shi, lamenting that if Xiao Bai failed to detect the danger at Bu Er's upcoming banquet, Chun Hua would be imperiled. His ultimate goal was to take Chun Hua back to Thousand Moon Cave after the dinner.
Ye Yan urged him to relocate to a safer place, but Shangguan Qiuyue dismissed her concerns, stating that Chun Hua was constantly anxious about her poisoned state, implying he prioritized her well-being over his own safety. Feng Caicai and Chun Hua continued their investigation into Mr. Shi. They now suspected either Li Yu or Bu Er. Chun Hua, however, confidently asserted that Li Yu could not be Mr. Shi.
She recounted how Medical Sage had compassionately taken in Li Yu's pregnant mother and later guided a wayward Li Yu away from gambling, making him his disciple. Given Li Yu's and his mother's deep gratitude and Li Yu's current impoverished state, Chun Hua believed he wouldn't use Medical Sage's techniques for evil unless coerced. All evidence, they concluded, pointed to Bu Er, whose businesses had rapidly expanded across Eight Immortals City after Medical Sage's death.
Chun Hua theorized that Bu Er, despite his vast accumulated wealth from selling immortality fruits, likely hoarded his money in a "brightly lit" yet hidden location within Eight Immortals Mansion itself, where he could easily access and enjoy it. Feng Caicai confirmed their fruitless search of the side rooms. Later, Feng Caicai noticed the flower mark on Chun Hua's palm had grown significantly darker, confirming her suspicion that the boots she saw the previous night belonged to Shangguan Qiuyue.
Leng Ning expressed concern about Shangguan Qiuyue's continued proximity to Chun Hua and the potential negative impact on both Chun Hua and Xiao Bai. However, Feng Caicai argued against informing Xiao Bai, fearing it would only cause him undue distress. Li Yu greeted Feng Caicai with notable warmth, prompting Qin Liufeng to playfully suggest Li Yu was smitten with her. Qin Liufeng then seized the opportunity to express his deep affection for Leng Ning, and the two sweetly held hands.
Feng Caicai then inquired of Li Yu about any unusual habits of Bu Er. Li Yu described Bu Er as exceptionally disciplined, but revealed a peculiar hobby: he personally cleaned the main corridor of Eight Immortals Mansion up to three times a day. This detail immediately sparked suspicion in Feng Caicai. Separately, Shangguan Qiuyue sent a small child to Chun Hua with a message. The child was instructed to simply say "Chunhua."
Chun Hua, concerned for Shangguan Qiuyue's safety, tried to send a return message, telling the child to inform Qiuyue she wouldn't come again and offering double payment. However, the child refused, stating Shangguan Qiuyue had advised against greed.
Episode 37 Recap
Shangguan Qiuyue explains his intricate plans involving Mr. Shi, who he identifies as Bu Er, and an upcoming dinner in three days where knockout drops will be used. He warns Chun Hua not to be greedy. Chun Hua then meets Shangguan Qiuyue at a shop, finding him engaged in a dramatic scene with the owner.
Shangguan Qiuyue claims he came to pick up jade pendants he ordered for Chun Hua but was trapped by the owner, who refused to accept his large silver note. Shangguan Qiuyue proudly shows Chun Hua the two jade pendants, one carved with "Chunhua" and the other with "Qiuyue," explaining that he specifically commissioned them. Chun Hua scolds him for running around recklessly in such a dangerous situation.
Shangguan Qiuyue playfully dismisses her worries, stating he would simply kill someone and disguise himself if caught. Chun Hua questions how he acquired so much money. He reveals that his friend, Mr. Shi, lent him ten thousand taels, concerned that Shangguan Qiuyue might cease helping him. Chun Hua, realizing Mr. Shi is Bu Er, deduces that Shangguan Qiuyue’s extended stay in Eight Immortals City is for a more significant, potentially violent, purpose.
Shangguan Qiuyue promises to take her back to Thousand Moon Cave once "everything is over," hinting at killings. He then tells her he will be in a small woods whenever she wants to see him. Just as she expresses a desire to go back with him immediately, he vanishes. Chun Hua returns to Fengming Manor, where Xiao Bai awaits her.
He insists on addressing the poison on her body, asking if Shangguan Qiuyue forced it upon her, a claim she implicitly denies. Chun Hua reminds Xiao Bai that as the Leader of Wulin Alliance and heir of Fengming Sword, his concern should be for the Wulin's safety, not her personal affliction. She asserts that her poison is linked to Shangguan Qiuyue, and therefore, she cannot help them fight him, wishing only to survive.
Xiao Bai vows to uphold his duty to the Wulin and protect her. Chun Hua presses him, saying that people sometimes must make difficult choices, but Xiao Bai retorts that Shangguan Qiuyue’s evil deeds should not force them into such decisions. Unaware that Chun Hua's ailment is a "love poison," Xiao Bai promises to prevent its spread. Fearing that Xiao Bai's hatred will lead him to kill Shangguan Qiuyue, Chun Hua decides to warn him.
Knowing a solo departure would draw suspicion, she invites Feng Caicai and Leng Ning for afternoon tea. Feigning a stomachache, Chun Hua discreetly leaves, enlisting the tavern owner to detain Feng Caicai and Leng Ning by claiming they are her romantic rivals. Unbeknownst to Chun Hua, Feng Caicai had already grown suspicious of her sudden invitation and had alerted Qin Liufeng. He had been secretly trailing the trio and witnessed Chun Hua venturing into the woods alone.
Qin Liufeng swiftly reports this to Xiao Bai, who immediately rushes towards the bamboo forest. In the bamboo forest, Chun Hua finds Shangguan Qiuyue. Suddenly, Chief Leng appears. Shangguan Qiuyue, initially thinking Chun Hua betrayed him, accuses her of luring Chief Leng to kill him, calling her stupid. Chun Hua angrily denies it, expressing hurt at his distrust. Shangguan Qiuyue apologizes, clarifying his disappointment stemmed from her "stupidity." Chief Leng demands to know the location of the real "immortality fruit."
Shangguan Qiuyue then exposes Chief Leng’s past misdeeds: his conspiracy with Mr. Shi to obtain the "Dandelion poison" to eliminate Feng Qianwei for the "immortality fruit," his ruthless attempt to lead Qin Liufeng and his companions (including Chief Leng's own daughter) into a secret room to kill them, and his murder of Fu Lou to silence him. Chief Leng desperately denies the accusations. Shangguan Qiuyue gravely injures Chief Leng, who succumbs to his wounds.
At that moment, Xiao Bai arrives and uses the final move of the Fengming Sword to severely wound Shangguan Qiuyue. Shangguan Qiuyue, convinced of Chun Hua's betrayal, expresses profound disappointment. Distraught, Chun Hua tries to reach him, but Xiao Bai intercepts her, shielding her from Shangguan Qiuyue. In a gesture of despair and a symbolic severing of their ties, Shangguan Qiuyue removes the hair ornament he wore when they first met and throws it at Chun Hua.
Star Deputy Chief Ye then appears and rescues Shangguan Qiuyue. Overwhelmed by sorrow, Chun Hua’s poison rapidly spreads, causing her intense pain, and she collapses. Qin Liufeng, witnessing the severe reaction, reveals that it is a "love poison" that spreads most visibly when one is emotional. Xiao Bai immediately understands Chun Hua's deep feelings for Shangguan Qiuyue.
Xiao Bai then instructs Qin Liufeng to withhold the news of Chief Leng's death from Feng Caicai and Leng Ning for the time being. Chun Hua, holding the hair ornament, grieves alone. Xiao Bai approaches, admitting he was behind Qin Liufeng's surveillance. Chun Hua furiously accuses him of trampling on others' trust for the sake of the orthodox sects in Wulin.
She vehemently discloses the hidden truth behind the wordless memorial tablet in the study, revealing how it represents Fengming Manor's unspeakable self-reproach and "ridiculous pride" concerning figures like Nan Xinghe and Xiao Min. She then recounts how Xiao Bai used a "Guilty Confession Letter" to scheme against Fu Lou and now used her to track Shangguan Qiuyue.
Chun Hua questions if she, too, will ultimately become another silent, "sacrificed one" on that memorial tablet, rationalized by him as a necessary evil. Xiao Bai tries to defend his ancestors by stating Nan Xinghe was a killer. Chun Hua, however, perceives that she is merely a means to an end for Xiao Bai to eliminate Shangguan Qiuyue.
Xiao Bai clarifies that he did not intend to kill Shangguan Qiuyue but was forced to intervene because Chief Leng had already been fatally injured. He emphasizes that he cannot kill Shangguan Qiuyue because the antidote for Chun Hua's poison remains in his possession. Chun Hua, touched by his concern for her well-being, asks if his surveillance was truly just for the antidote. Xiao Bai then confesses his genuine affection for her, expressing his desire for her to live well. Though grateful, Chun Hua attempts to decline his affections, but Xiao Bai interrupts her, vowing to find a way to remove the poison from her, regardless of the method required.
Episode 38 Recap
Chunhua frequently dreamt of Shangguan Qiuyue's injury, awakening her from sleep. She found her Icy Silkworm Beads dim and tried to expose them to the moonlight, but their glow remained faint, causing her to weep in distress. One night, Chunhua fell asleep at a stone table. Xiao Bai gently draped a coat over her, noticing the flower in her hand had deepened in color, a sign he knew was connected to Shangguan Qiuyue.
He sadly placed Shangguan Qiuyue’s hairpin back into her hand. Chunhua startled awake, initially thinking it was Shangguan Qiuyue, but realized it was Xiao Bai. She asked why he had come, and Xiao Bai, feigning a smile, explained he brought her a coat because of the cold. Chunhua remained absorbed in her grief, believing Shangguan Qiuyue hated her, and did not notice Xiao Bai's sorrowful expression. Xiao Bai asked if she was truly so worried about Shangguan Qiuyue.
Chunhua responded with deep sadness that she would never see him again. Seeing her despair, Xiao Bai reassured her that her poison was not dependent solely on Shangguan Qiuyue for a cure, promising to do his utmost to care for her. Meanwhile, Star Deputy Chief Ye, also known as Ye Yan, helped Shangguan Qiuyue recover from his injuries. Though physically healed, Shangguan Qiuyue's emotional wounds persisted. He forbade Ye Yan from even mentioning Chunhua's name.
Shangguan Qiuyue explained that he kept Ye Yan by his side not out of gratitude or sentimentality, but because he expected her to use her strength to protect the reputation of Thousand Moon Cave when difficult choices arose, rather than succumbing to old affections. Mr. Bu Er arranged a dinner inviting members of the orthodox sects. Miss Feng expressed concern about a potential trap and advised against attending such a "dinner designed to hurt us."
However, Xiao Bai insisted on going to expose Bu Er's plot. He was entirely focused on finding a cure for Chunhua's poison. Despite knowing that Bu Er currently held great respect and that they lacked conclusive evidence proving he was Mr. Shi, Xiao Bai was determined to capture Bu Er first. He believed this action would force Shangguan Qiuyue to reveal himself, which was essential for detoxifying Chunhua. Qin Liufeng shook his head in resignation at Xiao Bai's stubbornness.
Chunhua returned to the bamboo grove where Shangguan Qiuyue had been injured. There, the Icy Silkworm Beads miraculously brightened at the spot where Shangguan Qiuyue had bled, confirming to Chunhua that he was still alive. She cried out, calling for him to reveal himself, but was suddenly overcome by the love poison, collapsing in distress. Back at Fengming Manor, Chunhua encountered Li Yu, who had come to meet Miss Feng.
Remembering a prior warning, Chunhua told Li Yu that knockout drops would be added to the food at Bu Er's upcoming banquet and urged him to inform Xiao Bai and the others. Noticing Chunhua's gloomy mood, Li Yu invited her to join him in meeting a guest the next day, hoping it would lift her spirits. The following day, Chunhua waited for Li Yu’s guest at a wine shop.
To her astonishment, the guest was Shangguan Qiuyue, disguised as Mr. Zhou. The waitress had commented that Mr. Zhou, usually quite flirtatious, seemed entirely changed, not looking askance at anyone. Chunhua was stunned and chased him out of the wine shop, but he vanished without a trace. The love poison flared up again, and she collapsed, fainting at the entrance of the wine shop.
Xiao Bai was deeply concerned, unsure why a simple visit to a wine shop had caused Chunhua's poison to spread so severely. Upon waking, Chunhua questioned Li Yu about the guest. Li Yu, unaware that "Mr. Zhou" was Shangguan Qiuyue in disguise, described him as a prominent timber merchant from the Eight Immortals City.
He mentioned that this Mr. Zhou had supplied all the wood for Bu Er's mansion renovations in recent years and had repeatedly inquired about the specific pillars in Bu Er's residence. This detail raised suspicions for both Miss Feng and Li Yu. Chunhua speculated that Shangguan Qiuyue, by impersonating Mr. Zhou, might be orchestrating a larger scheme to provide clues or set a trap.
However, she was too distraught to dwell on it, convinced that Shangguan Qiuyue truly intended to ignore her from now on. Later, Xiao Bai observed that the flower in Chunhua's hand had deepened even further in color, causing him great worry. He promised her he would find a way to ensure her survival. His words, however, unexpectedly triggered a memory in Chunhua of Shangguan Qiuyue making a similar promise to her in the past.
Sensing a growing distance between them and noticing Chunhua's increasing thinness, Xiao Bai approached her, seeking to talk. He gently offered to comb her hair, but Chunhua took the comb back. Taking her hand and gazing at the flower she held, Xiao Bai pleaded with her to forget Shangguan Qiuyue for her own well-being and to embrace a life with him.
Episode 39 Recap
Xiao Bai, Qin Liufeng, and their companions attended a banquet hosted by Mr. Bu Er at the Eight Immortals Mansion, which was part of their plan to expose him. Mr. Bu Er, initially welcoming, expressed humility about his small venue and meager offerings. The group stated their purpose was to investigate the Medical Sage's death and locate his missing immortality fruit, fearing it might fall into Shangguan Qiuyue's hands.
Xiao Bai and Qin Liufeng then revealed that the immortality fruit they claimed to have destroyed earlier was actually a fake, created to bring peace to the Wulin world, as no one had ever seen the real one. They pressed Mr. Bu Er on how he knew about the fake fruit. He initially claimed he just doubted such a magical item could exist.
He then subtly questioned Chun Hua, remarking that she had exposed the fake fruit but later sided with Shangguan Qiuyue, suggesting her mind might have been controlled. However, he also observed the apparent affection between Xiao Bai and Chun Hua, implying their earlier fake fruit story might be true. The conversation quickly shifted when Feng Caicai declared that the food was laced with knockout drops, stating they could not accept Mr. Bu Er's deceptive hospitality.
When he demanded proof, a small bird that had consumed some food immediately collapsed, providing undeniable evidence. Mr. Bu Er, trying to deflect blame, accused his disciple Li Yu of preparing the poisoned dishes. Feng Caicai countered, highlighting Li Yu's respect for his master and his lack of time to cook, further revealing that they had known about the knockout drops beforehand because someone had warned them.
Mr. Bu Er, in a desperate attempt to deny he was the notorious Mr. Shi, claimed he lacked the wealth attributed to that name. However, Leng Ning produced the general ledgers of Eight Immortals Mansion, showing a sudden, unexplained windfall after a period of financial losses. Li Yu then confessed that he had stolen the ledgers from Mr. Bu Er.
He revealed that the Medical Sage had treated him like a son, teaching him martial arts and medicine, but after the Medical Sage's suspicious death, Li Yu and his mother were at Mr. Bu Er's mercy. He explained that he had deliberately used silver needles at a tavern to subtly guide Xiao Bai's group towards the Eight Immortals Mansion.
Li Yu then pointed out Mr. Bu Er’s peculiar habit of meticulously cleaning a specific corridor in the mansion multiple times a day. He told Xiao Bai to examine the third pillars on both the left and right sides of that corridor. Xiao Bai and Qin Liufeng inspected them, confirming they were wood on the outside but pure gold within, proving Mr. Bu Er was indeed Mr. Shi.
As Xiao Bai's group prepared to apprehend Mr. Shi, Qin Liufeng, Feng Caicai, and Leng Ning suddenly felt weak and collapsed. Mr. Bu Er, revealing his true nature, gloated that he had activated Snake Incense, a potent poison from Thousand Moon Cave given to him by Chief Gu. He had already taken the antidote and cruelly noted that his victims were not so lucky, as it would take them four hours to expel the poison using internal energy.
He mocked Xiao Bai, suggesting that with Shangguan Qiuyue injured and missing, Xiao Bai would be helpless, making the current situation a perfect opportunity for Mr. Bu Er to become the ultimate victor. Xiao Bai, however, vowed that he would not let Mr. Bu Er's plot succeed as long as he lived. Mr. Bu Er continued to taunt them, highlighting their noble birth and comfortable lives, which now lay at his mercy.
He specifically focused on Chun Hua, remarking on her value since both Shangguan Qiuyue and Xiao Bai protected her. Li Yu then alerted Xiao Bai that the source of the poison was the censer behind Mr. Bu Er. Xiao Bai quickly shattered the censer and seized Mr. Bu Er, holding a dagger to his throat and demanding the antidote.
Terrified, Mr. Bu Er claimed the antidote was with Shangguan Qiuyue, asserting that Chief Gu's supply was exhausted and Shangguan Qiuyue had used him as a mere pawn. When Xiao Bai expressed disbelief, Mr. Bu Er feigned reaching for the antidote from his sleeve but instead pulled out a hidden dagger, attempting to stab Xiao Bai. Suddenly, Shangguan Qiuyue appeared.
Mr. Bu Er desperately begged him for rescue, but Shangguan Qiuyue scornfully rejected him, declaring that Mr. Bu Er's insatiable greed made him unworthy, even of joining the evil sect. Shangguan Qiuyue then exposed the true story behind the Medical Sage's death: Mr. Bu Er was the killer. He contrasted Mr. Bu Er's avarice with the Medical Sage's benevolent desire to heal and save lives.
Mr. Bu Er tried to shift blame, claiming Shangguan Qiuyue had tempted him, but Shangguan Qiuyue retorted that the greed was already within him. Feng Caicai, devastated, refused to believe her father, Chief Feng, was responsible for the Medical Sage's death.
Xiao Bai confirmed that he and Qin Liufeng had also suspected Chief Feng but found it improbable that Chief Feng, whose martial arts were evenly matched with the Medical Sage, could have inflicted a fatal blow with a single strike.
Shangguan Qiuyue then revealed the complete truth: Mr. Bu Er, driven by his desire for the immortality fruit, had acquired a special paralytic medicine from Gu Wan, used for making puppets, which could temporarily incapacitate someone for hours without leaving a trace. He had administered this drug to the Medical Sage beforehand. This explained why Chief Feng's single palm strike, delivered later, proved fatal, causing Chief Feng to flee in fear.
After Chief Feng departed, Mr. Bu Er emerged and tried to coerce the paralyzed Medical Sage into surrendering the immortality fruit so they could get rich together. The Medical Sage vehemently refused, chastising Mr. Bu Er for his greed. Enraged, Mr. Bu Er then stabbed the Medical Sage to death.
Shangguan Qiuyue revealed that he had witnessed the entire sequence of events because he had gone to visit the Medical Sage, seeking to understand how Hua Xiaolei had miraculously returned from the dead. He admitted to merely "tipping off" Mr. Bu Er, suggesting he auction the non-existent immortality fruit, which ultimately led to the widespread chaos, blaming it on the inherent selfishness and greed of people.
Chun Hua, however, strongly disagreed, accusing Shangguan Qiuyue of orchestrating the entire deadly spectacle and manipulating human weaknesses, causing countless deaths and injuries. Feeling frustrated by Chun Hua's continued distrust, Shangguan Qiuyue challenged Xiao Bai to a fair fight, asserting he could take anyone's life within three moves. Qin Liufeng, from the ground, scoffed at Shangguan Qiuyue's talk of fairness, implying a hidden scheme.
Shangguan Qiuyue then warned that a war between Fengming Manor and Thousand Moon Cave was inevitable, with seventeen sects already converging on Fengming Manor as their target. Qin Liufeng accused Shangguan Qiuyue of coercing these sects, exploiting Mr. Bu Er to spread the immortality fruit hoax, causing infighting, and then holding their secrets against them. Shangguan Qiuyue denied coercion, claiming the sects simply trusted him more to lead the Wulin world.
He then addressed Chun Hua, stating he had fulfilled his promises: he had ceased wanton killing, upheld justice, and was now actively striving to unify the Wulin and maintain righteousness. He asked if she was satisfied, to which Chun Hua replied that he was indeed the most adept at manipulating human hearts. Xiao Bai and Shangguan Qiuyue began to fight.
As they exchanged blows, Chun Hua suddenly called out to Xiao Bai, telling him that a particular incident was not Shangguan Qiuyue’s doing. Shangguan Qiuyue was visibly surprised by Chun Hua's unexpected show of trust. Meanwhile, Qin Liufeng, having successfully expelled the poison from his body, quickly moved to check on Leng Ning and the others.
He noticed that the petals Chun Hua held were rapidly turning black, a sign of her deteriorating condition, and urgently informed Xiao Bai that Chun Hua was dying. Xiao Bai immediately instructed Qin Liufeng to take the others and preserve their strength. Shangguan Qiuyue, observing the scene, sarcastically asked if Xiao Bai was abandoning his wife. At this, Xiao Bai stopped fighting instantly and rushed to Chun Hua's side.
Episode 40 (Ending) Recap
Chunhua consumed a snow lotus seed, and the Quenchless Love poison, known best by Bu Er, was triggered. Star Deputy Chief Gu had truly won his elaborate scheme, as the snow lotus seed, when combined with either muscle-weakening powder or Snake Incense—which Mr. Bu Er himself had prepared—would rapidly stimulate the poison's attack.
Bu Er admitted there was no antidote, explaining that he had initially planned to detoxify her after a major Wulin battle, but the snow lotus seed had accelerated the process. He elaborated that to remove the poison, one would need superb internal force, either pure yang internal skills or three yin vital qi, which Xiao Bai and Shangguan Qiuyue cultivated respectively. Even a top master would need to exert their internal force for three consecutive days to succeed.
He and Star Deputy Chief Gu had intended for Chunhua to be poisoned during the battle between Thousand Moon Cave and Fengming Manor, ensuring that whoever chose not to fight for her would lose face and power, allowing them to gain fame and wealth. Now, whichever of the two leaders saved her would exhaust their internal force, effectively removing a top master from the martial arts circles. Without detoxification, Chunhua would die within half an hour.
Chunhua, tearfully closing her eyes, begged Brother Qiuyue not to further harm innocent people. She reminded him that Thousand Moon Cave was adept at using poisons, and since this one originated from them, there had to be a way to remove it. Qiuyue then promised Chunhua he would be good to her, taking her hand and beginning to exert his internal force to detoxify her.
Li Yu, seizing the opportunity, suggested that since Shangguan Qiuyue had caused so many homicides with the fabricated immortality fruit, Xiao Bai should kill him and then use his own internal force to save Chunhua. However, Feng Caicai objected, stating that Xiao Bai would never take advantage of someone who was in the act of saving a life.
Xiao Bai, remembering his own affection for Chunhua, recalled his father, Xiao Laozhuangzhu, who, despite hurting Shangguan Hui, maintained his reputation as a great hero in Wulin. He reflected on Chunhua's belief in governing with benevolence and righteousness, acknowledging his deep love for her. He realized this act meant a final farewell to Chunhua. As rain poured, Xiao Bai left, tears streaming down his face.
Chunhua, speaking to him, questioned if he would always be good to her, suggesting it might be better for him to kill her, as she associated with the "devil" of Thousand Moon Cave and considered herself an "evil woman" who colluded with him. Qin Liufeng reminisced about his first meeting with Chunhua, reflecting on how much time had passed and how she was no longer that "tough girl."
He informed Chunhua that the truth of the immortality fruit was now public, and Bu Er had confessed and faced punishment for his crimes. He congratulated her on his own engagement to Leng Ning, fulfilling his long-held wish. He recounted how, in the decisive battle that day, Thousand Moon Cave could have reaped benefits from their manipulative tactics, but Shangguan Qiuyue was suddenly taken away by Ye Yan.
This unexpected turn allowed the Wulin sects to calm down, resulting in a victory without further fighting. Qin Liufeng confirmed that Chunhua's Quenchless Love poison had been completely removed, though she had remained unconscious for two days. They had transported her back to Fengming Manor from the Eight Immortals Mansion. Qin Liufeng then asked if she still blamed Xiao Bai for not choosing to save her then. Chunhua smiled gently, shaking her head.
She explained that she didn't blame him, stating that if he had chosen to save her over his friends, she would have felt guilty for the rest of her life. Qin Liufeng pondered Shangguan Qiuyue's actions, noting that his vital qi was excessively depleted after saving Chunhua. This news had spread, causing the otherwise impending fierce battle between the black and white sects to disband, bringing a period of peace to the martial arts world.
Despite an internal rebellion within Thousand Moon Cave and various forces chasing Shangguan Qiuyue due to his role in the immortality fruit incident, Xiao Bai had issued an order forbidding anyone from taking advantage of his weakened state. Three days prior, Ye Yan had quelled the rebellion and regained control of Thousand Moon Cave. Chunhua inquired about Shangguan Qiuyue's whereabouts, and Qin Liufeng informed her that he had "faded out of the chaos."
Qin Liufeng mused that Shangguan Qiuyue should have been the ultimate winner, given his skill in manipulating people and causing internal strife among the orthodox sects. Yet, he chose to save Chunhua on the eve of the fierce battle, sacrificing over half his vital qi and thus preventing the conflict. Qin Liufeng admitted he had once doubted Qiuyue's true intentions, but now believed that what Qiuyue truly desired was Chunhua.
He concluded that with Chunhua by his side, their worries for him would lessen, and the peace in the Wulin world would be more secure. Later, Chunhua told Xiao Bai she was going to find Shangguan Qiuyue, and specified she would go "right now." As they embraced and prepared to part ways, Xiao Bai finally understood.
He told her that if she stayed with him, she would eventually be the one sacrificed, but if she stayed with Shangguan Qiuyue, she would always be put first. Chunhua reassured him to take good care of himself, telling him he would meet many other girls in the future. She expressed her gratitude for his long-standing care. She reflected on her past beliefs about love, realizing now that true love is unconditional, requires no effort, yet is utterly irresistible.
She wished him well, saying that he, a great hero, would one day encounter the person he couldn't resist. Chunhua eventually found Shangguan Qiuyue, who was cloaked and hooded, and initially urged her to leave, claiming he no longer needed her. Chunhua expressed her disapproval of his past methods but then commanded him to come closer. He complied, and she embraced him, noting how cold his body was and telling him to dress warmer in the future.
She affectionately called him a "dear fool" and asked if he was waiting for her, then hugged him, finding warmth in their embrace. She boldly told him she would "kiss him," to which he readily agreed. Chunhua lovingly removed his cloak and hood, only to find his hair had turned completely white. Her eyes welled with tears, her heart aching.
Shangguan Qiuyue seemed concerned about his appearance, but Chunhua reassured him that her feelings were neither sympathy nor obligation; she simply had to be with him. He confessed that his vital qi had not recovered and his hair might not turn back. She admitted it looked "a bit ugly" but insisted she would get used to it.
Shangguan Qiuyue expressed his fear that he could not provide her with safety, much like the tragic fate of Fu Lou and Lady You Si. Chunhua, however, comforted him, asserting that their situation was different, and they would embark on a new life together, one where they would not suffer the same fate. Shangguan Qiuyue, for the last time, earnestly asked Chunhua if she would regret her choice.
She firmly stated she would not, though she playfully warned him that she might complain during future arguments, asking him not to take it to heart. She then asked if his promise to always treat her well still stood, to which he affirmed that every word he had ever told her was true.
She then made him promise several things: that he must die after her, referencing the fate of Fu Lou and Lady You Si; that he would never like other girls; never threaten her; and never give her the cold shoulder. In turn, he demanded that she never leave him. They sealed their vows with mutual consent, turning to walk away together into their future. The scene then shifted, flashing back to their very first encounter.
Shangguan Qiuyue gazed at Chunhua, adding the name "Chunhua" to the Medical Sage's patient registry, thus giving her the name that would define her journey. In a hazy dream, Chunhua caught a fleeting glimpse of his receding figure.
