Love Like The Galaxy Recap, Plot, Synopsis, Total Episodes

Love Like The Galaxy Synopsis

Cheng Shaoshang, was a “left-behind child” who live with her grandmother due to the war, and her aunt intends to raise her as a good-for-nothing.

Faced with many traps, Cheng Shaoshang fakes absurdity and learns the knowledge in order to stay alive, hiding her strength and waiting for the return of his parents.

But when the dark clouds are lifted and the moon becomes clear, it is difficult to regain the love of family due to years of estrangement.

The love-starved Cheng Shaoshang meets the emperor’s foster son Ling Buyi, the talented Yuan Shen, and Lou Yao, a son of a powerful family, all of whom have their own strengths and weaknesses.

When it comes to choosing the right person to marry, Cheng Shaosheng is both self-conscious and pragmatic, and despite the emotional road ups and downs, she never regrets her choices.

During her time with Ling buyi, she was also involved in the mystery of Ling’s family by accident. Cheng Shaosheng has repeatedly made great achievements and learned from Ling’s family relationships how to get along with her parents and how to manage her love.

At the same time, Cheng Shaoshang and Ling Buyi also grew up in these experiences, slowly reconciling with themselves and their families, and holding on to their inner justice, and working together to solve the national crisis, making a good legendary.

Love Like The Galaxy Recap

Episode 1 Recap

The victory drums echoed from the border as Ling Buyi, the young general, triumphantly returned to the capital from Longyou. Outside the city gates, he dismounted to receive an imperial decree. He was appointed Deputy of the Court of Imperial Entertainments, tasked with leading the left cavalry of the Yulin Guards, and also commanded the Yueqi Guards from the Five Schools of the Northern Army.

Furthermore, he was granted the rare privilege to enter the inner palace for duties, and allowed to meet His Majesty with his sword and shoes, walk at a normal pace in the royal court, and have his name omitted during formal salutations. After Attendant Cao finished reading the decree, he helped Ling Buyi to his feet and urged him to change into the Emperor's gifted robes before heading to the palace for a celebratory banquet.

Attendant Cao mentioned the Emperor had been sleepless awaiting Ling Buyi's return and had originally wished to greet him personally but was dissuaded by Imperial Censor Zuo. However, Ling Buyi respectfully declined, stating that he had received urgent intelligence regarding an important case that required immediate attention. He promised to resolve the matter first, then return to the palace to dine with His Majesty and personally seek forgiveness.

With that, Ling Buyi and his deputies swiftly departed, riding towards a remote village on the outskirts of the city, leaving his subordinates wondering about the urgency of his mission. Meanwhile, at a desolate village, Housemaid Li stood guard outside a room, insisting that Cheng Shaoshang eat before they embarked on their journey. Despite addressing her as "Fourth Lady," Housemaid Li's words and demeanor conveyed clear contempt.

She scoffed, suggesting Cheng Shaoshang wouldn't die so easily despite being sick for over a month. Lianfang, Cheng Shaoshang’s maid, angrily countered that Fourth Lady's severe illness was a direct result of being abandoned in the village. Housemaid Li, however, was adamant; with Master Cheng Shi due to return in two weeks, Cheng Shaoshang had to come back, "whether she's sick or dead."

She brought a food box, condescendingly remarking that Cheng Shaoshang probably hadn't eaten warm food in a while, and threatened to dump the contents if the door wasn't opened immediately. Inside, Cheng Shaoshang, still recovering from a serious illness, was ravenously eating the food. Lianfang worried she would hurt her stomach by eating so fast, but Cheng Shaoshang replied that survival came before worrying about one's stomach.

Lianfang expressed her anger at the "shameless guys" who only appeared after Cheng Shaoshang had recovered, suspecting an ulterior motive. Cheng Shaoshang lamented that her parents' care over the years had amounted to "just a few letters," and sarcastically noted her own resilience for not succumbing to illness, or her parents would have received a death notice. Housemaid Li then rudely demanded she finish eating and accompany them, making it clear that the Cheng family provided no free meals.

Unbeknownst to them, Ling Buyi was observing the scene from a high vantage point. He had heard rumors of Cheng Shaoshang being sickly and weak, but Housemaid Li's increasingly frantic state made him doubt the veracity of such tales. Housemaid Li, losing patience, burst through the door, only to trip and fall face-first into a pile of wood ashes that Cheng Shaoshang had strategically placed. The other servants secretly chuckled at Housemaid Li's embarrassment.

Angered, Housemaid Li accused Cheng Shaoshang of disrespect. Cheng Shaoshang coolly explained that the wood ashes, which had been placed there on Second Aunt’s (Madam Ge's) orders to deal with insects, had just been moved to avoid bothering her. She claimed Housemaid Li's rude intrusion had made her, the junior, appear disrespectful.

Housemaid Li retorted that no one would believe her excuses, insisting Cheng Shaoshang's "bad character" was why Second Madam had sent her there to learn obedience and prevent her from "sabotaging the Cheng Family." Cheng Shaoshang responded with biting sarcasm, declaring her gratitude "for not starving me to death here." Cheng Shaoshang then boarded the carriage with Lianfang.

She immediately noticed fresh men's footprints around the carriage and a distinct, unwashed male scent inside, much to Lianfang's confusion, who initially thought it was Housemaid Li's body odor. Cheng Shaoshang realized it was the smell of a man who hadn't showered for days. As the carriage prepared to depart, Ling Buyi and his men intercepted it, stating they were under imperial decree to apprehend a suspect.

Housemaid Li attempted to prevent the search, citing the impropriety of men searching an unmarried lady's carriage. Cheng Shaoshang, however, silenced her, declaring that as a general's family, they must comply with lawful orders and not hinder military duties. She then sarcastically offered an apology on behalf of Housemaid Li, who she called "stupid and ugly."

Cheng Shaoshang then requested a word with Ling Buyi, informing him that searching the carriage would be pointless; instead, she pointed to a nearby haystack, hinting that it contained "all the fun stuff" and that setting it ablaze might reveal "a living man." Housemaid Li frantically tried to dismiss Cheng Shaoshang's words as delirious ramblings from her fever, but Cheng Shaoshang insisted on burning the haystack to prove her truth. Despite Housemaid Li's protests, Ling Buyi ordered the haystack ignited.

Old Master Dong, a relative of Cheng Shi, stumbled out of the burning hay, immediately pleading for mercy. Ling Buyi allowed Cheng Shaoshang's carriage to proceed, leaving Housemaid Li dumbfounded. Old Master Dong continued to beg for his life, identifying himself as Cheng Shi's maternal uncle. Housemaid Li furiously blamed Cheng Shaoshang, warning her that her actions against Old Master Dong would now incur her family's wrath, especially without her parents' immediate return.

Cheng Shaoshang retorted that betraying Old Master Dong was a minor issue compared to Second Aunt's previous actions that nearly sabotaged the entire Cheng Family. Housemaid Li then harshly condemned Cheng Shaoshang as an "uncultured troublemaker" who "grew up parentless." Back at the Cheng family hall, Madam Ge was anxious, worrying that her past harsh treatment of Cheng Shaoshang might lead to trouble now that Cheng Shi was returning.

She had even shown off new golden earrings to Old Madam Cheng earlier, thinking they looked more lavish than Old Madam Wan's. She fretted that if Cheng Shaoshang spoke ill of them or if Xiao Yuanyi learned of her mistreatment, they would assume Old Madam Cheng kept Cheng Shaoshang merely to torture her. A servant then announced that the master had arrived.

Old Madam Cheng excitedly rose to greet her son, but her smile vanished when she saw Xiao Yuanyi, clad in military attire, enter first. Cheng Shi followed, offering Xiao Yuanyi her favorite honey pastry. Old Madam Cheng immediately complained that her son had forgotten his mother, prioritizing his wife. Cheng Shi playfully chastised his mother for eating pungent onions, remarking on her unchanged country habits.

Old Madam Cheng, offended, reminded him of her arduous years farming to raise him and his brothers. Xiao Yuanyi intervened, praising Old Madam Cheng's robust health. When Cheng Shi asked about Cheng Shaoshang, noting her absence, Old Madam Cheng simply stated she was "not here." Suddenly, Cheng Shaoshang appeared, looking frail and dressed in rough clothes, collapsing dramatically. Lianfang rushed to her, recounting how Cheng Shaoshang had been left to die with a high fever in the village.

Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi were visibly distressed by their daughter's emaciated appearance. Cheng Shaoshang, weakly addressing her parents, proclaimed she had "finally lived long enough to see your return." Cheng Shi expressed deep regret for her condition, lamenting that after 15 years of fighting, he had expected his daughter to be well cared for, not "end up like this."

Old Madam Cheng, however, quickly turned the blame, accusing Cheng Shi of despising her and neglecting her for his wife and daughter. She complained about her years of hardship and illness, sarcastically suggesting they would be happy if she were "resting in my grave." Xiao Yuanyi's sworn sister, Qingcong, spoke up, subtly hinting that Xiao Yuanyi was forced to leave Cheng Shaoshang behind, not that she chose to abandon her.

Old Madam Cheng, enraged by the "lowly maidservant's" insolence, demanded she be punished, but Xiao Yuanyi staunchly defended Qingcong. She accused Old Madam Cheng of unfairly portraying them as neglectful parents who had burdened her. Madam Ge joined the fray, defending Old Madam Cheng and accusing Xiao Yuanyi of hurting her feelings. She argued that Cheng Shaoshang was unruly and caused Old Madam Cheng much distress, adding that they had put in "a lot of effort" to care for her.

Madam Ge then questioned Cheng Shi, reminding him that as the eldest son, it was his duty to care for his mother, implying he valued his children more than his parents. Cheng Shaoshang, having feigned her faint, was now resting in her room, keenly listening to the commotion.

Old Madam Cheng continued to rail, accusing Cheng Shi of always siding with Xiao Yuanyi and deliberately hiding his military rewards and titles from her, making her feel like an "ignorant old woman." Cheng Shi tried to calm his mother, suggesting she rest, but she dramatically declared she was "out of breath" and needed a "breather."

After Old Madam Cheng and Madam Ge left, Xiao Yuanyi went to Cheng Shaoshang’s room, promising to order the kitchen to cook her favorite dishes. Cheng Shaoshang, ever astute, asked her mother directly if she even knew what foods she liked, then turned away, leaving Xiao Yuanyi to ponder her profound lack of understanding of her own daughter. Later, a servant frantically reported that many black armored guards had surrounded the Cheng residence.

It was Ling Buyi, who had come to visit Cheng Shi. Ling Buyi explained that he was apprehending a thief suspected of embezzlement and theft of military equipment, apologizing for the disturbance. Cheng Shi, a man of integrity, praised Ling Buyi's actions against such "rats" who caused the death of many soldiers and offered his full assistance. Ling Buyi commented, "Like father, like daughter," expressing admiration for Cheng Shi's sense of justice.

Cheng Shi asked if Ling Buyi knew his daughter, to which Ling Buyi replied enigmatically that he didn't, but couldn't say they were complete strangers either. Ling Buyi then ordered Old Master Dong, whom he called a "rat," to be brought in for Cheng Shi to identify. Cheng Shi was shocked to recognize his own maternal uncle, asking what had happened. Old Master Dong, in desperation, blamed Cheng Shaoshang for his predicament.

Ling Buyi then firmly stated that the evidence of Old Master Dong's embezzlement was conclusive, and that regardless of rank, anyone who "corrodes the country" would be punished without mercy. As Ling Buyi prepared to depart, he noticed Cheng Shaoshang secretly observing him from an upper floor. He deliberately spoke to Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi, praising Cheng Shaoshang.

He commended her for upholding "righteousness before family," for standing up for justice, and for not being afraid of turning in a family member. He likened her "disposition" to that of officials in the Ministry of Justice who carried out interrogations, declaring that Cheng Shaoshang "will have a very bright future" and "No one shall underestimate her capability." Cheng Shi, taken aback, dismissed the praise as flattery. However, Cheng Shaoshang interpreted Ling Buyi's words as thinly veiled insults.

She fumed to herself that his words about righteousness meant she was unfilial, his mention of not fearing elders implied she was disrespectful, and his comparison to Ministry of Justice officials was a jab at her "fiery" and "unladylike" nature. Outraged, she silently cursed Ling Buyi, accusing him of repaying kindness with enmity and lacking all sense of morality.

Episode 2 Recap

Ling Buyi and his deputies quickly moved through the palace alleys. Outside Marquis Chengyang's Residence, his subordinate Liangqiu Qi mentioned the circulating rumors that painted Ling Buyi as unfilial towards the Marquis. Ling Buyi dismissed these, accustomed to such gossip. However, he was concerned that the Emperor wished to temporarily halt the investigation into the armament case, which suggested its widespread implications.

Liangqiu Qi questioned if a special pass for their investigation had been granted, but Ling Buyi silenced him, stating they were no longer on the battlefield where violence was the only recourse. He revealed that while the Emperor saw their recent military merits as outweighing any transgressions, the armament case was to be paused.

Ling Buyi quickly clarified to his surprised subordinates that he had no intention of stopping, as the theft of military armaments had been a thorn in his side for years. His subordinates recalled the suspicious behavior of Housemaid Li, who had repeatedly obstructed their search earlier. They had already been monitoring the Cheng Family, noting a lot of internal squabbles among the womenfolk. A servant then delivered a package to Ling Buyi, sent by Cheng Shaoshang.

His subordinates initially suspected a bribe, but upon opening it, found only a collection of seemingly useless items. Shaoshang’s package contained dried straw and a piece of torn fabric. Ling Buyi interpreted these as clues: the dried straw hinting at Head Armorer Dong’s hiding place in the haystack, and the fabric pointing to Ge's Fabric Store. He found her ingenuity intriguing.

Following Shaoshang's subtle hints, Ling Buyi's men investigated Ge's Fabric Store and discovered a ledger revealing Head Armorer Dong's investment of 80,000 coins. Given Dong’s low salary, this confirmed the funds were embezzled. Meanwhile, Head Armorer Dong was being held in prison. The guards graphically described various tortures, causing him immense fear. Ling Buyi appeared, informing Dong that General Cheng Shi had requested an impartial enforcement of the law, rendering all of Dong’s schemes futile.

Ling Buyi, who despised liars and punished them severely, confronted Dong with the ledger from Ge's Fabric Store. Faced with undeniable proof, Head Armorer Dong confessed everything. Back at the Cheng residence, Old Madam Cheng was frantic about her brother, Head Armorer Dong's, arrest. Madam Ge, Cheng Shi's sister-in-law, blamed Cheng Shaoshang, accusing her of ruthless revenge due to past punishments.

Xiao Yuanyi, Cheng Shi's wife, retorted by highlighting the severe implications of harboring a criminal, asserting that Shaoshang's actions were justified as Head Armorer Dong had embezzled military armaments. Madam Ge, unfazed, accused Xiao Yuanyi of using the government office to scare her, insisting on family loyalty over official matters and urging them to save Head Armorer Dong to spare Old Madam Cheng more suffering. Cheng Shi, however, explained that military law was absolute, and he was powerless to intercede.

Old Madam Cheng, now in tears, lashed out at Cheng Shi, accusing him of caring more for his wife's family than his own uncle or mother, recalling how he readily funded Xiao Yuanyi's brother's studies but was reluctant to provide for her own family. Xiao Yuanyi defended herself, explaining that the money for her family was hard-earned by her and Cheng Shi on the battlefield.

The argument escalated, with Madam Ge accusing Xiao Yuanyi of despising Old Madam Cheng for supporting her relatives. Overwhelmed, Old Madam Cheng finally ordered everyone to leave. Madam Ge then slyly arranged for Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi to stay in the less prestigious side house, ostensibly for "family unity" after so many years apart. Xiao Yuanyi calmly agreed, her composure hiding a perceptive understanding that unnerved Madam Ge, who privately boasted she would never vacate the main house.

Cheng Shi was deeply pained by Shaoshang’s pale appearance, attributing it to the hardships she endured. Xiao Yuanyi, noticing a strange stickiness near Shaoshang's mouth, covered her with a blanket and called Lianfang outside for a private conversation. Lianfang tearfully recounted how Madam Ge never sought medical help for Shaoshang, claiming children recover on their own.

She revealed that Shaoshang was frequently sent to the village, enduring hunger, lack of clothing, and neglect, all while her parents risked their lives on the battlefield. This mistreatment began after Madam Ge, unable to bear children, adopted her ten-year-old nephew, Yao. Shaoshang, in a misguided act of kindness, opened a gourd of honey for Yao, attracting wild bees that stung him. Madam Ge used this incident to punish Shaoshang by sending her to the freezing village to "reflect."

Xiao Yuanyi, however, pressed Lianfang on the details, specifically asking if Shaoshang or Yao opened the honey gourd. Lianfang admitted Shaoshang did, and Xiao Yuanyi subtly implied Shaoshang shared some blame for not being more circumspect, questioning why they ate honey in a garden full of flowers.

Lianfang also reported that Shaoshang's recent fainting spell was due to a damaged spleen and stomach from "stuffing herself with too much food," explaining Shaoshang had eaten ravenously out of fear of future starvation. Cheng Shi was devastated upon hearing how poorly his daughter had been treated, but Xiao Yuanyi vowed that such mistreatment would never happen again.

Shaoshang, eavesdropping from her room, realized her mother's acute intelligence, seeing through her feigned illness and orchestrating events to create conflict between Cheng Shi and Old Madam Cheng. She felt her mother was ruthless for using her in such a way, deciding she could only rely on herself. Xiao Yuanyi, on her part, regretted leaving Shaoshang for so long and resolved to strictly discipline her, fearing that her character had become difficult to shape.

Shaoshang, still pretending to be unwell, refused the bitter medicine brought by Lianfang. Upon hearing her parents approaching, she quickly resumed her weak facade. Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi entered, accompanied by Qingcong. Cheng Shi doted on Shaoshang, remarking on her pallor and suggesting malt sugar for the bitter medicine. Xiao Yuanyi, however, insisted on the medicine’s necessity, citing the adage "good medicine tastes bitter," forcing Shaoshang to swallow some.

Cheng Shi then lightened the mood by praising Shaoshang's beauty and promising to take her to the Lantern Festival, but Xiao Yuanyi quickly countered that inner virtues were more important than outward beauty. Their conversation was abruptly interrupted by loud, exaggerated wails from Old Madam Cheng in the front yard. Exasperated, Cheng Shi promised Shaoshang he would add sugar to her medicine later and left with Xiao Yuanyi.

From a hidden vantage point, Shaoshang and Lianfang watched as Old Madam Cheng threw herself into a dramatic fit, threatening to drown herself in a well, then to bash her head against a wall. Shaoshang cynically observed her grandmother's theatrics, remarking that Old Madam Cheng alone could staff an entire opera troupe. Cheng Shi joined the spectacle, kneeling and lamenting his inability to save Head Armorer Dong.

Madam Dong tried to intervene but was swiftly blocked by Cheng Shi's guards and Xiao Yuanyi's sharp words. Shaoshang noted her father's impressive acting skills, comparing his performance to her grandmother's long-practiced tricks, and predicted he would not lose this battle of wits. Old Madam Cheng continued to express her suffering, blaming Head Armorer Dong’s greed on a hard life, and suggested that all the family's money be given to him.

Cheng Shi initially agreed but then claimed he couldn't save Dong from Ling Buyi, who would have arrested him too, had it not been for his recent military merits. Old Madam Cheng escalated her threats, vowing to report Cheng Shi to the Emperor for filial impiety. Cheng Shi calmly countered that refusing to abet a corrupt official was not disloyal, warning her that such a report could lead to his execution and the entire family's ruin.

Old Madam Cheng, now desperate, declared she would stop eating and drinking. Shaoshang scoffed, betting she wouldn't last half a month. Suddenly, Xiao Yuanyi appeared behind Shaoshang, surprising her. Xiao Yuanyi sternly rebuked Shaoshang for eavesdropping and judging her elders. With the family drama subsiding, Shaoshang was confined to her room. She reflected on Xiao Yuanyi, realizing her mother was far from the soft-spoken woman she sometimes appeared to be.

Shaoshang thought her mother had brought a ruler to measure her for new clothes, but after hearing Shaoshang’s cynical comments about her family, Xiao Yuanyi, in a fit of anger, used it to administer a punishment. She ordered Shaoshang to remain in her room, copying "The Book of Rites" until finished, thereby missing the upcoming Lantern Festival which Shaoshang had always longed to attend. Qingcong attempted to comfort Shaoshang, assuring her of Xiao Yuanyi’s care, but Shaoshang coldly dismissed it.

She claimed not to care about her mother’s opinion, stating that never having experienced maternal love, she would not grieve its absence. Later, Cheng Shi returned to their room to find Xiao Yuanyi sighing. She accused him of encouraging Old Madam Cheng to remarry, leading to his own beating and then her (Xiao Yuanyi's) frustration.

Xiao Yuanyi explained her past belief that while sons needed strict discipline to prevent bringing ruin upon the clan, daughters could be protected even if they were willful. She now deeply regretted leaving Shaoshang in Madam Ge’s care, lamenting that her daughter had learned all of Madam Ge's bad habits: eavesdropping, trickery, and mocking elders, behaviors unfit for a proper lady.

Cheng Shi, while trying to soothe her, even showed a hint of pride that Shaoshang was intelligent enough to have secretly rerouted the chimney flue, a trick used to manipulate Old Madam Cheng’s superstitious beliefs. Xiao Yuanyi was furious, declaring she would have given a soldier a military rod for such insubordination. Cheng Shi attempted to distract her by suggesting they measure Shaoshang for new clothes, but Xiao Yuanyi remained resolute.

She declared that she could not afford to be lenient, acknowledging her past mistake in entrusting Shaoshang to Madam Ge had led to her current disposition. She believed that any further leniency would irrevocably harm Shaoshang’s future, and she was determined to discipline her daughter, no matter what it took.

Episode 3 Recap

Ling Buyi's investigation confirmed that Xu Jinzhong, a former blacksmith from Feng Yi County who had recently entered officialdom, was the one who bribed Head Armorer Dong. Xu Jinzhong, now the Imperial Armourer in charge of all weapons, regularly paid Head Armorer Dong to turn a blind eye to shipments. However, Dong claimed he did not know the destination or recipient of the armaments. Ling Buyi found the name "Xu Jinzhong" intriguing, pondering who the man was truly loyal to.

He noted that the large quantity of armaments suggested ambitious buyers. Ling Buyi's men reported that Xu Jinzhong had been missing for several days since Dong's arrest. Ling Buyi decided that Dong, while complicit, would be spared the death penalty and instead be banished to the borders, as he was unaware of Xu Jinzhong's full plan. As a gesture of gratitude for Cheng Shaoshang's contribution to catching Dong, Ling Buyi permitted Dong to visit the Cheng family before his banishment.

Meanwhile, Cheng Shaoshang was recovering. Her mother, Xiao Yuanyi, brought her many gifts, including beautiful hairpins and precious items she had saved over the years. However, among these gifts were also numerous scrolls, which Xiao Yuanyi considered the most valuable. When asked to read, Shaoshang struggled, admitting she only recognized four characters from a dozen-word passage about Cangjie. A servant, Qingcong, quickly blamed Madam Ge, Shaoshang's Second Aunt, for deliberately neglecting Shaoshang's education, turning her into an "illiterate."

Cheng Shi, Shaoshang's father, tried to comfort her, revealing he too was once illiterate and praising Xiao Yuanyi's vast knowledge. Shaoshang confessed that she didn't like studying and was perhaps like her father. Cheng Shi encouraged her, stating that he only began studying at thirty but could now read official reports without difficulty, emphasizing that she had ample time to learn. The family was preparing for Head Armorer Dong's farewell.

Cheng Yang, the daughter of the Second Branch, arrived late, apologizing that her teacher had given her extensive homework. Madam Ge seized the opportunity to praise Cheng Yang's studiousness, contrasting it with Shaoshang's playful and unmanageable nature. Shaoshang, however, thanked Madam Ge for never forcing her to study, claiming Madam Ge once told her that a woman only needed to remember her husband's name, unlike her mother, Xiao Yuanyi, who excelled in both studies and martial arts.

Madam Ge, exasperated, called Shaoshang an idiot and warned her not to end up banished like her useless brother, Dong. The women of the family rushed out to the courtyard upon hearing Dong's wails. Before his sister, Old Madam, Dong cried about being abandoned. She, in turn, told him to take care of himself at the border and avoid further mistakes.

Old Madam then told Dong's family to stop visiting, asserting that Cheng Shi's rising status demanded stricter household rules, unlike their past life in the village. Shaoshang sarcastically remarked that Old Madam's dramatic tantrums must have been inherited from the Dong family. Dong then angrily criticized Old Madam, claiming she lived a better life at his expense.

Old Madam retorted that the Cheng family's prosperity was earned by Cheng Shi's sacrifices, reminding Dong that they now belonged to different families with different ancestors. Dong then accused Shaoshang of being ungrateful and heartless, just like Cheng Shi. When Xiao Yuanyi urged him to quiet down, Dong claimed Old Madam had once said Xiao Yuanyi and her daughter were bothersome and should be abandoned to save resources. Old Madam vehemently denied this as slander.

Dong then turned his accusations towards Madam Ge, stating she deliberately kept Shaoshang illiterate and embezzled money Cheng Shi sent home. Despite Madam Ge's heated denials, the officers took Dong away, leaving the family in disarray. High above, Ling Buyi received an update from his men: Xu Jinzhong remained missing, and with no family to track, his whereabouts were completely unknown.

Ling Buyi deduced that, like Dong, Xu Jinzhong would likely hide in a place most familiar to him, yet unknown to others. Recalling Xu Jinzhong's blacksmith origins in Feng Yi County, Ling Buyi ordered his men to search all forges in the capital, believing that was his most probable hiding spot. Back at the Cheng residence, Old Madam expressed relief that Dong was finally gone, though still fuming from the ordeal.

She then reprimanded Madam Ge for unwisely investing Cheng Shi's reward money in her family's fabric store, resulting in significant losses. Old Madam clearly favored her eldest and third sons' families. Cheng Shi then announced that his third brother, Cheng Zhi, and his family, including their sons Song and Shaogong from Qing District, would return to the capital for New Year, completing a rare family reunion, with only Yong and his wife at the border unable to make it.

Old Madam was overjoyed. Madam Ge, however, immediately suggested converting Shaoshang's study into rooms for the nephews, claiming Shaoshang had no real use for it. Shaoshang protested, mentioning Xiao Yuanyi's recent insistence on her studies, but Madam Ge and Old Madam dismissed her, arguing that one could study anywhere. Xiao Yuanyi sent Shaoshang to her room to study, instructing Qingcong not to allow her to eat or sleep until she finished memorizing.

Madam Ge then attempted to claim the main house for her nephews, suggesting the First Branch move to the smaller back rooms and taunting that they "had no sons anyway," as none were currently at home. Old Madam rebuffed her. When Old Madam insisted she vacate the main house she currently occupied, Madam Ge refused to move, asserting the main house was old, humid, and uninhabitable. Old Madam insisted she renovate it for the returning nephews.

Later that night, Madam Ge vented her frustration to her husband, Cheng Cheng, calling him a useless fool who only read books, leaving her to fight their battles. She lamented that unlike his successful brothers, Cheng Cheng couldn't even keep their main house. In a fit of rage, she threw Cheng Cheng's precious scrolls into a brazier, declaring them worthless if they couldn't secure their home.

Their daughter, Cheng Yang, rushed to rescue her father's scrolls from the fire, reminding her mother that the main house rightfully belonged to the eldest son, Cheng Shi. Madam Ge, still furious, merely shouted "Nonsense." Shaoshang continued her studies under Xiao Yuanyi's strict supervision, feeling a new kind of pressure. She complained of hunger, which Xiao Yuanyi met with a strict "hunger sharpens the mind" but offered snacks with the condition of memorizing five extra lines for each piece eaten.

Qingcong questioned Xiao Yuanyi's harshness given Shaoshang's difficult upbringing, but Xiao Yuanyi retorted that Cheng Shi could teach their daughter if he felt her methods were too strict. Alone in her room, Shaoshang reflected on her mother's actions, questioning why Xiao Yuanyi had endured so much from Madam Ge for decades, allowing herself to be bullied and even losing the main house. She felt Xiao Yuanyi's passive "virtue" was suspicious.

Shaoshang then paid a secret visit to Madam Ge, pretending to be at odds with her mother. Madam Ge, who had been spying on the mother-daughter duo, confirmed their strained relationship. Shaoshang, playing along, suggested to Madam Ge that to secure the main house, she should use the excuse of "offspring" with Old Madam, who was prone to superstitious beliefs. Shaoshang hinted that no one could predict if Madam Ge might bear a grandson for Old Madam in the future.

Madam Ge, initially suspicious, eventually bought into Shaoshang's idea, convinced that Shaoshang's goal was merely to upset her mother. Shaoshang left, content that her plan was set in motion. Madam Ge, emboldened by Shaoshang's advice, approached Old Madam, claiming the "Old Deity" had prophesied the main house was auspicious for childbirth, citing Xiao Yuanyi's three sons born there as proof. She dramatically pleaded with Old Madam to pity Cheng Cheng, who was still without a son at his age.

Xiao Yuanyi, however, interjected, questioning the Old Deity's accuracy, linking it to Shaoshang being left behind and uneducated for so many years. Madam Ge countered by claiming the Old Deity had helped her recover her health. Old Madam, swayed by the "offspring" argument and her own superstitions, ultimately agreed that Madam Ge could remain in the main house. Madam Ge then dramatically swore an oath that she would not move until she bore a son for the Cheng family.

Madam Ge gloated to Xiao Yuanyi, reminding her that Old Madam's decision was final, and that the importance of progeny meant Xiao Yuanyi's family would stay in the backyard. She hoped Xiao Yuanyi would not regret it. Madam Ge continued to taunt Xiao Yuanyi, claiming that Shaoshang's idea to fight for the main house was a direct result of Xiao Yuanyi's overly harsh treatment of her.

She contrasted Cheng Yang's academic aptitude with Shaoshang's manipulative cleverness, implying Shaoshang should be taught "women's tricks." She concluded by stating that since Shaoshang was not her own daughter, she had no reason to care more than Xiao Yuanyi, the biological mother. Under house arrest, Shaoshang presented a cleverly modified brush to a servant, demonstrating how it could write three characters at once. The servant praised her ingenuity but also warned that such cleverness could backfire.

Xiao Yuanyi entered, dismissing the servant, and confronted Shaoshang about helping Madam Ge. Shaoshang calmly replied that since the family would soon move to a new residence, she saw no harm in letting Madam Ge have the old main house.

When Xiao Yuanyi asked how she knew about the impending move, Shaoshang explained her deductions: her mother's unusual lack of opposition to Madam Ge's actions, combined with Cheng Shi's recent military victories and the overdue imperial rewards, strongly suggested a new residence was imminent. Shaoshang concluded that Xiao Yuanyi had likely already deemed the old main house irrelevant. Xiao Yuanyi sternly reminded Shaoshang that the feud with Madam Ge was an adult matter and she should not interfere.

Shaoshang, however, retorted that she, too, had grievances against those who bullied and humiliated her while her mother remained passive. She asserted she was merely giving them a taste of their own medicine and questioned why Xiao Yuanyi couldn't accept it. Xiao Yuanyi acknowledged her own failure in Shaoshang's upbringing, which allowed Madam Ge to foster her reckless nature. She forgave Shaoshang's past transgressions but warned that this was the absolute last time.

She confiscated Shaoshang's modified brush, reiterating her warning for Shaoshang to behave, as her reckless actions could bring disaster upon the entire family. Soon after, an imperial envoy arrived at the Cheng residence to deliver a royal decree. Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi knelt as the decree proclaimed Cheng Shi as Marquis of Quling, awarding him income from 500 families, in recognition of his unwavering loyalty and numerous battle achievements. Cheng Shi accepted the honor.

Old Madam was ecstatic, celebrating Cheng Shi's success at his late father's memorial tablet. Madam Ge quickly pointed out the extensive land awards. Old Madam, however, lamented Cheng Cheng's lack of similar achievements compared to his brothers. Cheng Shi, defending his second brother, highlighted Cheng Cheng's crucial contributions to the family. He then offered Cheng Cheng his pick from the newly awarded imperial scrolls, knowing his brother's love for books.

Old Madam, reminding Cheng Shi of her maternal efforts, asked for some of the treasures for herself, to which Cheng Shi readily agreed, ensuring all the jewelry and valuables would be hers. A servant excitedly described the numerous, rare treasures that had arrived. Old Madam, eager to see them, quickly led Cheng Shi and Cheng Cheng to inspect the scrolls and treasures, respectively.

As they admired the new wealth, Madam Ge brought up the rumor that His Majesty had also awarded General Wan a grand mansion. Cheng Shi confirmed this, adding that General Wan intended to give his current residence to the Cheng family. He then outlined their new living arrangements: Old Madam would reside in Madam Wan's current quarters, while he and Xiao Yuanyi would occupy General Wan's former rooms. Old Madam was delighted, having long admired Wan's residence.

However, Cheng Shi then turned to Madam Ge, pointedly telling her that she wouldn't be moving to the new residence. He reminded her of her solemn oath to stay in the main house of the old residence until she bore a son, emphasizing that even Cheng Cheng would be moving to the new residence, leaving her undisturbed in the old main house to fulfill her pledge.

Madam Ge desperately pleaded with Old Madam for intervention, but Old Madam firmly reiterated Madam Ge's oath and the Old Deity's prophecy, confirming that "the son is paramount" and that Madam Ge's fate was sealed by her own words. With nothing left to say, Old Madam, along with Cheng Shi and Cheng Cheng, quickly diverted their attention back to the exciting new imperial treasures.

Episode 4 Recap

Madam Ge, furious, accused Cheng Shaoshang of insidious scheming. She believed Shaoshang had only pretended to help her to ensure she remained in the main house, ultimately seeking to sow discord within the family. Madam Ge claimed Shaoshang and her mother orchestrated Cheng Cheng's move to the new residence while leaving Madam Ge behind.

Cheng Shaoshang calmly retorted that Madam Ge clung to the main house for the sake of bearing an heir, while Shaoshang’s actions were merely to irritate her own mother. She questioned why only she was blamed when they shared a similar objective. Shaoshang explained that Cheng Shi arranged the new, larger residence for Cheng Cheng, whose leg injury made navigating cramped spaces difficult, as an act of kindness.

Madam Ge dismissed this, reiterating her vow not to leave until she bore a son, then lamented how she could fulfill this vow without Cheng Cheng. She went on to insult Cheng Cheng, calling him useless, and asserted that women did not need men to bear children. Cheng Shaoshang challenged her words, leading Madam Ge to mock Shaoshang's perceived luck, attributing it to Cheng Shi's achievements.

Shaoshang countered by reminding Madam Ge of her own difficult childhood, abandoned as a baby, left in a rural village where she nearly died from illness, and without parental care. She questioned why Madam Ge, who had Cheng Cheng's unwavering loyalty despite his disability, could not be content. Xiao Yuanyi, having overheard the exchange, quietly instructed Qingcong to bring military servants, realizing that Cheng Shaoshang had deliberately provoked Madam Ge.

Meanwhile, Madam Ge, unrepentant, was heard loudly scolding Cheng Cheng in his study, which was in disarray with scrolls scattered everywhere. She relentlessly shamed him for his perceived failures in studies and career, and for being a cripple, blaming him for her own misfortunes. Overwhelmed, Cheng Cheng finally asserted himself, suggesting she return to the Ge family with a generous sum. This infuriated Madam Ge further, who, in a fit of rage, physically assaulted him.

Just then, Xiao Yuanyi entered, sternly ordering Madam Ge to stop. She instructed Qingcong to escort Cheng Cheng away, who looked humiliated yet grateful. Xiao Yuanyi then slapped Madam Ge, declaring her intent to divorce her. Madam Ge defensively brought up her family's past support for the impoverished Cheng family. Xiao Yuanyi dismissed her claims, stating that the Cheng family's current strength meant she could act as she pleased.

She accused Madam Ge of being a foolish, indecisive woman and reminded her that Cheng Cheng’s kindness was the only reason she had been tolerated this long. Xiao Yuanyi then firmly told Madam Ge that in three days, with the family moving to the new residence, she would be left alone in the old house to await collection by the Ge family. When Madam Ge questioned this, Xiao Yuanyi sarcastically offered to help her remarry, knowing Madam Ge's past desires.

Xiao Yuanyi then revealed her deep resentment, stating she was acting to avenge her daughter and was fully aware of all of Madam Ge's cruel actions towards Cheng Shaoshang over the years. Madam Ge threatened to take Cheng Yang with her if divorced, but Xiao Yuanyi firmly declared Cheng Yang to be a Cheng family member, and only Madam Ge would leave. Xiao Yuanyi then recounted the painful memory of her giving birth.

In a vivid flashback, Madam Ge had fabricated a prophecy from an "Old Deity," claiming that Xiao Yuanyi's unborn child must remain in the main house to ward off disaster for Old Madam. Despite Cheng Shi’s outrage and insistence that their family stay together, Old Madam’s pleas and a sudden imperial order for Cheng Shi to depart for Gu City immediately to aid Marquis Huo, forced Xiao Yuanyi’s hand.

In that dire moment, to fulfill her filial duty and protect Old Madam, Xiao Yuanyi made the agonizing choice to leave her newborn daughter, Cheng Shaoshang, behind with Old Madam, taking only her son as she accompanied Cheng Shi to war. Returning to the present, Xiao Yuanyi ordered Madam Ge confined to prevent her from disrupting the family's auspicious moving day, and left the room without another glance.

Meanwhile, Ling Buyi and his men investigated a suspicious forge shop in the capital. His subordinates reported that the shop had been closed since Head Armorer Dong's arrest, yet food was regularly delivered to people inside who never left. Inside, Ling Buyi noticed a stained statue of Zhu Rong, which was unusual as iron smiths deeply respected the deity, signaling a hidden area.

Following this clue, his men discovered and apprehended Xu Jinzhong, who was hiding within the shop's concealed passages. Xu Jinzhong, defiant, declared he would reveal nothing, emphasizing his lack of family to protect. He then swiftly consumed a potent poison, dying before Ling Buyi could extract any information. Ling Buyi, recognizing a distinct birthmark on Xu Jinzhong’s neck, instantly recalled a childhood memory of seeing the same man involved in exchanging inferior weapons into the imperial stores.

Enraged at how easily Xu Jinzhong had escaped justice through death, Ling Buyi ordered his trusted subordinates, A Qi and A Fei, to arrest all former employees of the forge and every servant from the Xu household. He vowed to interrogate them one by one, intending to uncover all connections to Xu Jinzhong's treachery. He also commanded his men to dismantle and thoroughly search the forge, "digging three feet deep" for any clues.

However, he cautioned them to operate discreetly, ensuring no one learned of Xu Jinzhong's death, as he sought to secretly investigate all of Xu Jinzhong's past associates and communications, leaving no lead unexplored. A few days later, Old Master Ge arrived with Aunt Ge. Despite the long journey, Old Master Ge maintained his polite demeanor. The Cheng family came out to greet them, and Cheng Yang immediately rushed into Aunt Ge's arms, tears welling up.

Cheng Shaoshang watched from the sidelines, feeling like an outsider, as Xiao Yuanyi busied herself with managing the reception and guest rooms. Old Master Ge, acknowledging his daughter's failings, humbly apologized to the Cheng family and expressed no objection to the divorce. Madam Ge, however, remained unrepentant, leading Aunt Ge to openly criticize her for her chronic misbehavior and lack of filial piety, especially given Old Master Ge's arduous journey in his old age.

Old Master Ge, deeply saddened, shed tears, expressing remorse for how his daughter had troubled Cheng Cheng and for inadvertently stifling Cheng Cheng's aspirations. Cheng Cheng, who held a deep respect for his benevolent father-in-law, was also moved to tears, lamenting his misguided marriage. Cheng Shaoshang, attempting to avoid the somber atmosphere, was intercepted by Xiao Yuanyi, who insisted she join the gathering to pay respects, lest she appear rude.

Privately, Shaoshang had confided in her maid, feeling that Cheng Yang, despite having Madam Ge as a mother, was luckier due to Aunt Ge's affection and the Ge family treating her like a treasure, unlike Shaoshang herself, who felt unloved by both her grandmother and mother and raised by a malicious second aunt.

She sarcastically noted that Old Master Ge had not come for a social visit, but for a serious family matter, implying her presence would be awkward during the discussion of a divorce. She also acknowledged her own past misconducts and promised to change. In a side hall, Cheng Shaoshang found Aunt Ge comforting a weeping Cheng Yang. Xiao Yuanyi, seemingly oblivious to their distress, greeted them warmly.

As they conversed, Cheng Shaoshang was struck by Aunt Ge's sagacious advice to Cheng Yang, urging her not to be ashamed of her mother's faults but to learn from them, to cultivate inner strength, and to be self-reliant like a mighty tree. Deeply impressed, Shaoshang instinctively offered Aunt Ge a cup of buttermilk. However, Xiao Yuanyi later reprimanded Shaoshang for this gesture, accusing her of deliberately trying to outshine Cheng Yang.

Cheng Shaoshang, feeling misunderstood, expressed her frustration, lamenting that her mother always saw Cheng Yang as kind and herself as manipulative, attributing malicious intent to all her actions. She sarcastically suggested that her mother should focus on Cheng Yang to find happiness. Xiao Yuanyi, unyielding, declared her determination to "tame" Shaoshang, even the most difficult soldier could be disciplined, and Shaoshang, as a stubborn girl, was no different.

Cheng Shaoshang, in her heart, reflected on her growing loneliness, realizing she had no family to rely on nor close friends to confide in, and that more people disliked her than loved her. She resolved to be more detached, treat herself better, and expect less from others to live a freer life. The next day, the Ge family departed. The Cheng family, reluctant to see them go, escorted them far out of the city.

It was an emotional farewell; Cheng Yang tearfully clung to Aunt Ge, while Old Master Ge and Cheng Cheng exchanged heartfelt goodbyes. Xiao Yuanyi reassured Cheng Yang that she would care for her like her own daughter and that her father would be looked after at the school of Mount Bailu. Cheng Shaoshang, however, stood apart, observing the scene like an outsider, keenly aware of her mother's gentle demeanor and comforting words towards Cheng Yang—a warmth she had never experienced herself.

Episode 5 Recap

Ling Buyi stood on the city wall with his subordinates, discussing the ongoing investigation into Xu Jinzhong and the military armaments. His subordinate reported that despite searching all forge shops, no relevant items were found, leading them to believe Xu Jinzhong might have destroyed all evidence after Head Armorer Dong's capture. Ling Buyi remained resolute, asserting that Xu Jinzhong's urgency to sell the armaments would force him to contact buyers, inevitably leaving a trail.

As he spoke, he spotted the familiar carriage of the Cheng family. Moments later, he instructed his men to prepare New Year's goods for the troops, remarking that this would be their first New Year in the capital. His subordinate reminded him that he typically avoided such reunion festivals and mentioned that Marquis Chengyang had repeatedly petitioned the Emperor to invite Ling Buyi home for a New Year's reunion, which had begun to cause gossip among officials.

Ling Buyi, however, flatly refused the invitation. On the day the Cheng family moved into their new, magnificent residence, Cheng Shaoshang, bundled in a cloak, joined her family in entering the grand estate. Due to Old Madam Cheng's superstitious beliefs, exorcism rituals were performed by nuo people, complete with ancient chanting and the clang of gongs. Cheng Shi, standing at the entrance, respectfully waited for Old Madam Cheng to begin the offerings, emphasizing the importance of tradition.

Although initially tired and chilled, Cheng Shaoshang was soon captivated by the lively singing and dancing of the nuo people in the torch-lit courtyard. Inside the main hall, Old Madam Cheng expressed her joy at the spacious new house, eagerly anticipating a lavish banquet to collect monetary gifts once Cheng Shi received his new appointment. After inspecting her own chambers, she departed, leaving Cheng Shaoshang to relax casually on the floor, complaining of exhaustion from the early morning.

Xiao Yuanyi promptly scolded her daughter for her lack of decorum and "lazy" behavior, contrasting her with the diligent Cheng Yang, who studied daily without complaint. Cheng Yang gently interjected, suggesting Cheng Shaoshang needed rest after recovering from her illness. Cheng Shi supported Cheng Shaoshang, noting that everyone was tired from the long day. Cheng Shaoshang then advised her father to rest well, as his upcoming expedition would be arduous.

Cheng Shi was surprised by her knowledge of such matters, but Cheng Shaoshang explained her deduction: since he had received a title and wealth but no official post, and did not appear ostracized, the Emperor must have other plans for him. She urged him to decline any difficult assignments, as the family now lacked nothing. Cheng Shi praised her wisdom, assuring her it was not a war expedition and he would not depart until after New Year's Day.

He then gently sent her to her new courtyard to rest. In her courtyard, Lianfang marveled at its beauty. Cheng Shaoshang noticed a pile of old items discarded by Old Madam Cheng and, despite Lianfang's skepticism about their usefulness, decided to repurpose them into a swing chair for enjoying the moon and stars. While Cheng Shaoshang worked, her parents discussed her.

Cheng Shi praised Cheng Shaoshang's intelligence, likening her to Xiao Yuanyi, and suggested her upright character came from him, making her a perfect combination. Xiao Yuanyi, however, remained critical, contrasting Cheng Shaoshang's spirited nature with Cheng Yang's composure. Hearing noise from Cheng Shaoshang's courtyard, Xiao Yuanyi went to investigate, fearing her daughter was "destroying the house." She found Cheng Shaoshang and Lianfang constructing the swing.

Xiao Yuanyi sternly reminded Cheng Shaoshang that she was a lady, not a carpenter, criticizing her for wasting time on "useless things" instead of studying. She declared that Cheng Shaoshang would study ancient texts in her room daily from the next day onward, threatening to confine her to the house if she refused. Despite the harsh words, Cheng Shaoshang perceived her mother's departing glance as a subtle sign of approval and pride in her ingenuity.

The much-anticipated return of Cheng Zhi, his wife Sang Shunhua, and their twin sons, Cheng Song and Cheng Shaogong, brought a flurry of excitement to the residence. Old Madam Cheng doted excessively on Cheng Zhi, with Xiao Yuanyi remarking that her display resembled welcoming a lover. Cheng Shaoshang met her brothers for the first time. Cheng Shaogong playfully tried to trick her, claiming she would be punished after he "read her fortune."

Cheng Shaoshang, however, quickly discerned their identities: she identified Cheng Song as the formidable military man and, with characteristic bluntness, described Cheng Shaogong as the "frail" third brother based on their appearances and reputations. Cheng Song found this amusing, noting Cheng Shaoshang's sharp tongue rivaled Shaogong's. Old Madam Cheng, still fixated on male heirs, urged Cheng Zhi to have more children. Sang Shunhua, Cheng Zhi's wife and daughter of the Master of Mount Bailu, kindly commented on Cheng Shaoshang's liveliness.

However, Xiao Yuanyi criticized Cheng Shaoshang for her overly eager behavior compared to Cheng Yang's decorum. Later, at the banquet, Cheng Shaoshang discreetly asked her brothers about Sang Shunhua, learning that Old Madam Cheng disliked her, even though the marriage elevated the Cheng family's status by connecting them to the Master of Mount Bailu. Apparently, Old Madam Cheng expected a "fairy" for her son.

During the banquet, Old Madam Cheng continued to lavish attention on Cheng Zhi, completely ignoring Sang Shunhua. Cheng Shaoshang confided in her brothers, lamenting that her Second Uncle, Cheng Cheng, had suppressed his own ambitions for over a decade for the family's sake, yet Old Madam Cheng showed him no compassion. She critically noted that if parents judged their children based on appearance or power, they did not deserve respect.

Xiao Yuanyi, overhearing their hushed conversation, redirected the brothers to pay attention to Cheng Yang, creating an awkward silence. Later, on New Year's Eve, Xiao Yuanyi and Cheng Yang meticulously handled the household preparations and ancestral offerings. Xiao Yuanyi praised Cheng Yang's diligence and flawless execution of the New Year's feast and ancestral rites, holding her up as an exemplary young lady.

Sang Shunhua tried to intercede for Cheng Shaoshang, suggesting both girls had their merits and that Xiao Yuanyi should not constantly praise Cheng Yang while disparaging Cheng Shaoshang. Xiao Yuanyi, however, maintained her impartiality, stating she merely commended competence. She insisted that Cheng Shaoshang first needed to correct the "bad behaviors" she had learned from Madam Ge before she could be taught household management.

When Cheng Shaoshang returned to the main hall with her brothers, she sensed the disheartening atmosphere and quietly retreated to her room, declining to watch the firecrackers. At Marquis Chengyang's Residence, Ling Yi hosted a New Year's banquet, where he toasted Ling Buyi's anticipated marriage to Princess Yuchang, who was present. Ling Buyi arrived, stating he was there only by imperial decree to reunite with Marquis Chengyang.

He publicly challenged Ling Yi, demanding to know the whereabouts of his real mother and dismissively referring to Madam Chunyu, Ling Yi's wife, as a "nobody" in terms of maternal authority. He attempted to leave, but Ling Yi and Madam Chunyu urged him to stay and consider Princess Yuchang, reminding him that marriage was a parental affair.

Ling Buyi, however, declared that he sought a woman he would recognize as "the one" at first sight, to whom his heart and life would wholly belong, and if he could not find such a woman, he would remain unmarried. He explicitly stated that Princess Yuchang was not that woman and then departed. Undeterred, Princess Yuchang followed him outside, expressing concern that he left without eating because of her.

She inquired if he would attend the Lantern Festival, but he declined. She steadfastly declared that she would wait for him at the Lantern Festival Show, regardless of his decision. Later, in the solitude of Xinghua Courtyard, Ling Buyi dismissed his attendant's offer of reheated food, stating he had no appetite. His gaze fell upon a lantern, sparking a new lead. He ordered his men to collect all lanterns from Xu Jinzhong's forge shop.

His attendant questioned this, noting other shops also had lanterns. Ling Buyi explained that unlike others with bamboo frames, Xu Jinzhong's lanterns all featured a unique iron ring at the base, a craftsmanship beyond typical lantern makers. He deduced that Xu Jinzhong, a blacksmith, had crafted these lanterns himself and used them to hide clues that had been overlooked in his secret room.

Later, as they inspected the collected lanterns, his attendant pointed out a romantic inscription on one, referencing Princess Yuchang's unwavering affection. Ling Buyi, however, was struck by the fact that Lantern Festival lanterns commonly came in pairs. He realized that Xu Jinzhong, the "old fox," had exploited this tradition to facilitate covert communication with his buyers: a buyer would simply leave the matching lantern to convey messages without needing a direct meeting.

This crucial breakthrough led Ling Buyi to decide that they must attend the upcoming Lantern Festival Show. Fu, Cheng Yang's attendant, expressed her concern that Cheng Yang's overly sensible nature made her vulnerable, especially now that her mother, Madam Ge, had been banished, leaving her without protection. Knowing Old Madam Cheng's bias towards males and the diminished status of the second chamber, Fu believed Cheng Yang needed to assert herself. She and maid Changpu conspired to elevate Cheng Yang's standing.

Meanwhile, Cheng Shaoshang's brothers showered her with gifts. Cheng Song presented her with bamboo texts illustrated with heroic stories, far more engaging than the dry ancient texts Xiao Yuanyi had assigned. Cheng Shaoshang revealed that she had been forced to repeatedly wash and reuse bamboo scrolls during her childhood, which deeply angered Cheng Song, who promised to get her anything she desired, even the stars from the sky.

Cheng Shaogong noticed her current writing desk was a child's desk, too small for her. He generously offered her a larger, rosewood writing desk with carved qilins, a previous gift from their eldest brother that he no longer used. Cheng Shaoshang sent Lianfang to fetch it. On her way, Lianfang encountered Changpu, who, feigning admiration for the desk's unique style, requested to borrow it for Cheng Yang to inspect for her own custom desk.

Lianfang, proud of the desk's craftsmanship, agreed. However, Changpu then directed the porters to take the desk directly to Cheng Yang's study. Later, Lianfang and Changpu were found brawling over the desk in the courtyard, each claiming it for their respective mistress. Cheng Shaoshang, wondering why Lianfang had not returned, rejected Cheng Shaogong's suggestion that Lianfang might be dallying, vouching for Lianfang's loyalty and stating that Lianfang had saved her life. Just then, Ms. Qing arrived, summoning Cheng Shaoshang to Jiuzhui Hall for questioning by Xiao Yuanyi.

Episode 6 Recap

The incident began with Changpu, Cheng Yang's maid, refusing to hand over a writing desk to Lianfang, Cheng Shaoshang's maid, leading to a heated argument. Fu, Cheng Yang's nanny, deliberately brought Xiao Yuanyi to witness the chaos. Changpu feigned unconsciousness, surprising everyone. Cheng Shaoshang, waiting for Lianfang, grew suspicious when she didn't return. Soon, Qingcong summoned Cheng Shaoshang to Jiuzhui Hall for questioning, and Cheng Song and Shaogong immediately sensed trouble.

Before her arrival, Fu and others had already painted Cheng Shaoshang as someone who intimidated the weak and forcibly took Cheng Yang's writing desk. When questioned by Xiao Yuanyi, Cheng Shaogong clarified that he had gifted the writing desk to his sister, Cheng Shaoshang, mentioning its distinctive Qilin carvings as proof. Seeing her narrative unravel, Fu quickly asserted that Lianfang had intentionally paraded the writing desk to Cheng Yang, boasting about Cheng Shaoshang's two protective brothers.

This statement angered the Cheng brothers, prompting Cheng Song to demand Changpu be brought in for questioning. Xiao Yuanyi subtly signaled Qingcong, who startled Changpu into waking up by threatening to step on her, ending her feigned unconsciousness. Under Xiao Yuanyi's intimidating gaze, Changpu reluctantly recounted the events. She had been instructed by Fu to replace Cheng Yang's cherished writing desk with a new one, believing Cheng Yang deserved to have everything Cheng Shaoshang possessed due to her "vulnerable" status.

Lianfang, arriving to retrieve the desk Cheng Shaogong gifted to Cheng Shaoshang, was met with resistance from Changpu, who insisted on keeping it for Cheng Yang to inspect first. Despite Lianfang's suggestion that Cheng Yang could simply visit Cheng Shaoshang's courtyard to see it, Changpu refused to yield. Cheng Yang, present during the interrogation, apologized for her maid's improper actions, but Xiao Yuanyi declared that neither Young Lady was directly at fault since both were elsewhere during the incident.

Xiao Yuanyi ultimately concluded that both maids were at fault: Changpu for her presumption and Lianfang for flaunting the desk, ordering both to be punished. Fu expressed regret for her lax supervision, while Cheng Yang once again tried to take responsibility for her maid. Xiao Yuanyi, however, comforted Cheng Yang, telling her not to worry. Cheng Shaoshang, still kneeling, let out a bitter laugh, remarking on the ironic nature of the day's events.

She directly questioned Lianfang about the nuances of acting on one's own initiative, using a detailed analogy about buying bean paste to highlight the difference between permissible independent judgment and exceeding one's authority, subtly implying that Lianfang’s actions were instigated. She then turned to Changpu, pressing her on whether she had enlisted other maids to assault Lianfang and if they were deceived or conspirators, threatening to question them directly.

Xiao Yuanyi cut her off, instructing her to cease her relentless questioning and let Cheng Yang manage her own maid's punishment. Fu, however, refused to back down. Expressing gratitude to Xiao Yuanyi for her apparent support of Cheng Yang, she continued to lament, claiming Cheng Shaoshang, bolstered by her brothers' favoritism, had subjected Cheng Yang to mistreatment.

This statement finally provoked Shunhua to interject, sternly rebuking Fu for sowing discord within the family and gossiping about her masters, even questioning if such behavior was learned from the Ge Family. Xiao Yuanyi halted Shunhua's outburst. Cheng Shaoshang, having observed all this, concluded that she could only rely on herself. She challenged Xiao Yuanyi, asking if she truly believed Fu's claims. If so, Cheng Shaoshang and her brothers would be deemed bullies.

If not, Fu should be immediately punished for attempting to create division within the family. Enraged by Cheng Shaoshang's defiant stance, Xiao Yuanyi lashed out, accusing her of insubordination, a comment that shocked Qingcong and others, and instantly caused Xiao Yuanyi to regret her words. Cheng Shaoshang, realizing her precarious position, understood that if she didn't stand firm now, she would be oppressed and timid for the rest of her life.

With newfound resolve, she coldly informed Fu that Xiao Yuanyi's reluctance to criticize her was solely to save Cheng Yang's reputation. She countered the notion of her brothers' partiality, asserting it was merely a reaction to Xiao Yuanyi's own favoritism towards Cheng Yang. Cheng Shaoshang further questioned why Lianfang's mistake led to her being reprimanded without a clear investigation, while Changpu’s wrongdoing meant Cheng Yang was deemed completely innocent.

She concluded that even Fu understood Xiao Yuanyi’s bias, rendering any concerns about Cheng Yang being mistreated by the family unfounded. Xiao Yuanyi, furious, threatened to administer family discipline. However, seeing Cheng Song immediately intercede, taking responsibility and offering to accept punishment on Cheng Shaoshang's behalf, Xiao Yuanyi redirected her anger. She chastised Cheng Shaogong, suggesting the entire situation could have been avoided if he had given two writing desks instead of one. Cheng Shaoshang remained kneeling upright, unfazed.

She passionately defended her brother, explaining that his gift was a compassionate gesture because she was still using a child’s desk, not an intentional slight against Cheng Yang. She then used a powerful analogy of a single wheat bread to illustrate how Xiao Yuanyi’s seemingly "fair" approach was, in reality, a biased act masquerading as impartiality. Witnessing her courage, Cheng Song, Cheng Shaogong, and even Cheng Yang knelt beside Cheng Shaoshang, offering to share her punishment.

Admiring Cheng Shaoshang’s bold spirit, Shunhua feigned a sudden stomachache, using it as an excuse to escort Xiao Yuanyi away from Jiuzhui Hall. Outside, Shunhua sarcastically commented on Xiao Yuanyi’s "mighty presence." When Xiao Yuanyi complained about Cheng Shaoshang's defiance, Shunhua calmly pointed out that Xiao Yuanyi had been wrong from the beginning, failing to provide justice for Cheng Shaoshang and thus undermining her own authority as a mother. Xiao Yuanyi admitted to losing her temper and speaking rashly.

Concerned about the escalating conflict, Shunhua offered to resolve the situation, suggesting Xiao Yuanyi pretend to have been overwhelmed by anger, allowing the children to apologize and the matter to be settled without further clear-cut judgments, as family disputes weren't like court politics requiring absolute clarity. Cheng Shaoshang told Cheng Yang that she didn't blame her, but lamented that Cheng Yang, though ostensibly motherless, always seemed to have maternal figures protecting her, while she, despite having a mother, felt motherless.

Shunhua promised to acquire anything Cheng Shaoshang might need in the future. Cheng Shaoshang then expressed her wish to attend the Lantern Festival show, which Shunhua readily granted, causing Cheng Song to suggest Cheng Yang join them to prevent any further accusations of partiality, and instantly dissolving the tense atmosphere into one of joy and camaraderie. After the writing desk incident, the Lantern Festival arrived, marking a rare period of peace without war.

The curfew was extended by two hours, allowing citizens to enjoy the festive streets. The entire Cheng family went out, with Cheng Shaoshang standing out in a beautiful Sichuan brocade dress gifted by Shunhua. Meanwhile, on the city wall, Ling Buyi and his men discussed their operation. Liang's brothers had completed their arrangements, ready to act if anyone appeared with a lantern resembling Xu Jinzhong's.

Ling Buyi's gaze fixed on Cheng Shaoshang from afar; his scout confirmed her identity by her lively demeanor. As Cheng Shaoshang enjoyed the festivities with her brothers, observing the myriad lanterns and their riddles, she found little interest in solving them herself. A large crowd gathered around Tian's Restaurant, drawn by the renowned scholar Yuan Shen from Mount Bailu, who was there for the lantern riddles.

He Zhaojun arrived with Lou Yao, but Lou Yao proved no match for Yuan Shen's intellect. Cheng Shaoshang, however, showed a flicker of understanding. As expected, Yuan Shen dominated the riddles. To win a jar of Qianlizui wine, Cheng Shaoshang effortlessly solved a complex riddle posed by Yuan Shen, immediately capturing the attention of both Lou Yao and Yuan Shen. Embarrassed by Lou Yao's failure, He Zhaojun stormed off, almost falling, but was caught by Prince Xiao.

Ling Buyi, having deduced that the mastermind behind Xu Jinzhong was connected to Lord Yong from Feng Yi County, realized that since Lord Yong was out of the capital, his son, Prince Xiao, would be the one at Tian's Restaurant to conduct business. His suspicion was confirmed when his men identified Prince Xiao carrying the telltale lantern. At the same time, Lou Yao developed an immediate affection for Cheng Shaoshang. Yuan Shen, equally smitten, threw an embroidered ball towards her.

However, upon hearing cries of someone falling into the water, Cheng Shaoshang instinctively threw the embroidered ball back. Princess Yuchang had deliberately fallen into the river to gain Ling Buyi's attention. Her maidservant dramatically pleaded with Ling Buyi to rescue her, emphasizing her status as Lord Ruyang's only granddaughter and threatening imperial displeasure. Cheng Shaoshang, observing mud stir in the water, realized the river was shallow. She decisively kicked several bystanders into the water, exposing Princess Yuchang’s deception.

As Ling Buyi cast an appreciative glance her way, Tian's Restaurant suddenly erupted in flames. Amidst the ensuing panic, Cheng Shaoshang desperately searched for her father and found herself in peril. Ling Buyi appeared just in time, scooping her up in his arms and carrying her to safety before swiftly departing.

Episode 7 Recap

The Cheng family held a grand housewarming banquet, filling their new residence with lanterns and decorations. Many distinguished guests arrived to offer their congratulations, including scholarly families and the martial General Wan Songbai and his wife. General Wan, a sworn brother to Cheng Shi, knowing Xiao Yuanyi's rigid nature, presented Cheng Shaoshang with a valuable dagger. He advised her to seek his help if she ever faced injustice, especially from her mother.

Cheng Shaoshang was delighted with the gift, and it left a favorable impression of the Wan family. Xiao Yuanyi, however, quickly admonished Cheng Shaoshang for idling and lacking manners, ordering her to attend to her grandmother and put away the gift. General Wan commented on Xiao Yuanyi's overly strict rules, which he believed made life dull, but Cheng Shi defended his wife, attributing his improved social standing to her teachings.

Meanwhile, the Old Madam Cheng, adorned in an extravagant display of gold and silver, was complimented on her youthful appearance, prompting Cheng Shaoshang to discreetly remark to Cheng Yang about the gaudy two-liang gold hairpin her grandmother wore, finding it embarrassing. Cheng Yang, however, dared not speak against her grandmother. Among the later arrivals were Lou Li and Wang Ling, daughter of Cavalry General Wang Chun.

Wang Ling, whose mother was the Empress’s younger sister, immediately displayed arrogance, stating she only came out of filial duty. She and Lou Li then openly disparaged Cheng Shaoshang for being haughty, crude, and ill-mannered. Cheng Shaoshang, overhearing their insults, boldly retorted, questioning who was truly impolite. Cheng Yang quickly tried to smooth things over, taking the blame for Cheng Shaoshang's upbringing on behalf of her mother.

Suddenly, an announcement was made for Yuan Shen of the Jiaodong Yuan family, surprising Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi as they had not invited him. General Wan expressed suspicion, noting Yuan Shen's cunning reputation. Yuan Shen, upon entering, explained that his father and Cheng's eldest son's teacher had studied under the same master, and he came uninvited out of admiration for Cheng Shi. The women guests were captivated by his elegant appearance.

Yuan Shen then approached Cheng Shaoshang, returning an embroidered ball he had previously thrown to her. Annoyed by the chatter and gossip, Cheng Shaoshang retreated to the garden, complaining to her maid Lianfang about the other women. Yuan Shen followed her, greeting her with feigned concern. Getting straight to the point, Yuan Shen asked her to deliver a message to her Third Aunt, Madam Sang, explaining that due to certain private circumstances, he could not do so himself.

Cheng Shaoshang quickly agreed, only for Yuan Shen to recite a lengthy and elaborate rhapsody. Unable to comprehend the flowery language, Cheng Shaoshang asked him to simplify it into a single sentence. He obliged, telling her to convey, "An old friend misses her and asks for a few words in reply." Cheng Shaoshang swiftly departed. Back in the women's hall, Cheng Shaoshang confided in Cheng Yang, who confirmed that Yuan Shen's arrival had diverted everyone's attention from her.

Cheng Shaoshang then recounted Yuan Shen's elaborate explanation for his visit, dismissing it as a contrived attempt to forge connections and calling him a "rude pleasure-seeker." Cheng Yang gently admonished her for judging his character. Cheng Shaoshang then repeated portions of the "rhapsody," and Cheng Yang recognized it as "Changmen," a famous rhapsody by Sima Xiangru, popular among young noblewomen for its elaborate prose and non-political themes.

When Cheng Yang suggested that her mother could teach Shaoshang more, Cheng Shaoshang politely declined, stating she was content with her current knowledge. Later, while out shopping for a gift for Princess Yuchang's birthday, Cheng Shaoshang was intercepted by Yuan Shen. He pulled her aside and pressed her to deliver the message she had promised to. When she feigned reluctance, he offered a deal: he would owe her one favor—anything besides rebellion, betrayal, or marrying her—in return.

Annoyed by his teasing insinuation that she was delaying to create more opportunities to see him, Cheng Shaoshang angrily agreed to deliver the message that very day, declaring that they would then owe each other nothing. On the day of Princess Yuchang's birthday banquet, Ling Buyi observed the Cheng family's carriage, his gaze lingering on Cheng Shaoshang. His stepmother, Madam Chunyu, arrived at his residence to deliver an invitation to the banquet.

Ling Buyi coldly confronted her, highlighting their convoluted family ties—she was once his "aunt" by marriage but became his stepmother after exploiting his mother's and his destitution to wed Marquis Chengyang. Despite his cynical remarks, Madam Chunyu pressed him to attend for Princess Yuchang’s sake. Ling Buyi ordered his guards to escort her out.

Liang Qiufei, Ling Buyi's aide, had unknowingly accepted the invitation earlier and was then ordered to receive ten military rods as punishment, with the added condition that he would be pardoned if he could retrieve the discarded invitation. Meanwhile, Ling Buyi continued his investigation into Prince Xiao, whose sudden wealth contradicted his previous financial struggles.

Ling Buyi deduced that Prince Xiao was profiting from the illicit sale of military armaments, likely linked to the recently exiled Head Armorer Dong and the deceased Xu Jinzhong. He ordered his men to disrupt Prince Xiao's businesses, anticipating that the lavishly accustomed Prince Xiao would be forced to seek new buyers, thus revealing the masterminds behind the stolen armaments.

Ling Buyi also noted Prince Xiao's close association with He Zhaojun, General He's daughter, suspecting that Prince Xiao might aim to marry her to gain access to military supplies, despite General He's upright character. Realizing that both He Zhaojun and Prince Xiao would attend Princess Yuchang's birthday, Ling Buyi decided to attend, overriding his initial disinterest and instructing Liang Qiufei to retrieve the invitation. Separately, Mr. Yang attempted to arrange a marriage between his sister and Yuan Shen.

Yuan Shen, however, returned a scroll with several errors marked, implying Mr. Yang's sister was intellectually unsuitable. He pointedly advised Mr. Yang to focus on scholarship rather than meddling in others' marriages. An attendant later inquired about Yuan Shen's marriage plans, but he expressed his disillusionment, citing his parents' distant and uninteresting union.

He questioned the societal expectation to marry someone just because they were "interesting" and concluded that marriage, for him, appeared to be a mere "compromise" offering no personal benefit. Later, Cheng Shaoshang arrived to deliver Yuan Shen's message to her Third Aunt, Madam Sang, interrupting a tender moment between Madam Sang and Cheng Zhi. Cheng Shaoshang delivered Yuan Shen's simplified message: "An old friend misses her and asks for a few words in reply."

Madam Sang immediately recognized the "old friend" as Huangfu Yi, her former fiancé, and realized he must have heard of her recent illness. She penned a brief, unsigned reply, confident that Huangfu Yi would recognize her distinctive handwriting. When Cheng Shaoshang pressed for details, Madam Sang cryptically replied that it was "something she couldn't say in a few words," explaining that this phrase truly meant "I don't want to explain."

She then revealed that in her youth, she had spitefully told Huangfu Yi and his entire circle never to contact her again. Cheng Zhi was visibly relieved by Madam Sang's measured response. When Madam Sang then asked Cheng Shaoshang how she knew Yuan Shen, Cheng Shaoshang playfully responded with Madam Sang's own words. At Princess Yuchang's birthday banquet at Lord Ruyang's Mansion, Xiao Yuanyi and Madam Sang accompanied Cheng Shaoshang and Cheng Yang.

Despite wearing modest attire, Cheng Shaoshang's grace was noted. Wan Qiqi, General Wan's boisterous daughter, stood out with her extravagant jewelry. She jovially commented on Cheng Shaoshang and Cheng Yang's plain dresses, offering to send them more elaborate ones and declaring that being "gentle" was unnecessary in this "tiger's den." She even took hairpins from her own gifts for the Princess to adorn Cheng Shaoshang and Cheng Yang.

Inside, Princess Yuchang, instigated by Lou Li and Wang Ling, harbored a deep resentment towards Cheng Shaoshang for ruining her plan at the Lantern Festival. Wang Ling asserted that Cheng Shaoshang had thwarted Princess Yuchang and General Ling from becoming a celebrated couple. Encouraged by her cohorts, Princess Yuchang declared her intention to seek revenge against Cheng Shaoshang that day.

Episode 8 Recap

Female guests began to arrive at the banquet, and servants brought out snacks. Princess Yuchang and Wang Ling exchanged glances, then Princess Yuchang announced the meticulously prepared golden dates, which required over ten stages to create. Wang Ling then pointedly suggested it was likely Cheng Shaoshang and Cheng Yang’s first time tasting such a delicacy.

Wan Qiqi, however, dismissed the golden dates as nothing special, contrasting them with the leopard she had personally killed and processed for her father's bone wine, noting that the others had probably never tasted such a strong drink. Wang Ling retorted, calling Wan Qiqi uncivilized like a savage, but Wan Qiqi quickly reminded her that the Emperor himself had praised her father's leopard bone wine, questioning if Wang Ling considered the Emperor a savage too.

Wang Ling then tried to correct Cheng Shaoshang about the "golden dates," explaining they were actually made of honey-coated butter noodles, not real dates, implying Cheng Shaoshang’s ignorance. Wan Qiqi then criticized the extravagance, invoking the Emperor’s call for frugality and accusing Princess Yuchang of belittling others with such luxury.

Wang Ling and her companions fired back, pointing out Wan Qiqi's own lavish attire and questioning her sincerity, suggesting she should be farming in rags if she truly cared about common people. Cheng Shaoshang intervened, defending Wan Qiqi by explaining her years of arduous work assisting General Wan with war casualties, a task no easier than farming.

She then chastised the women for enjoying peace and luxury while ridiculing military families, emphasizing that such a refined lifestyle was foreign to them and the banquet was not worth their attendance. She stressed that their peaceful lives were owed to divine blessings, the Emperor’s tireless efforts, and the soldiers’ sacrifices, and questioned how they could mock military descendants without shame.

A servant announced General Ling's arrival, prompting Wang Ling to try to smooth things over, warning Cheng Shaoshang not to embarrass herself before distinguished guests. Cheng Shaoshang scoffed, questioning if Wang Ling considered herself a distinguished guest. Wang Ling then revealed that the Eleventh Master was coming for the Princess's birthday, condescendingly remarking that Cheng Shaoshang, having been confined, likely hadn’t met the Eleventh Master before. Wan Qiqi dismissed Wang Ling’s infatuation, telling her to meet the Eleventh Master alone.

Cheng Shaoshang then declared her disinterest in the Eleventh Master, even boasting that he admired her, but that meeting him would only be awkward. She then excused herself. Ling Buyi entered, confirming he was the Eleventh Master, the man Cheng Shaoshang claimed admired her but whom she found uninteresting. Cheng Shaoshang immediately regretted her words. Feigning a stomachache from the golden dates, Cheng Shaoshang, Cheng Yang, and Wan Qiqi quickly left the banquet.

Princess Yuchang expressed her pleasure at Ling Buyi's attendance, but Ling Buyi immediately stated his regret, noting that Lord Ruyang's Mansion seemed unwelcoming to military officers. Although Princess Yuchang claimed she had invited military daughters, Ling Buyi observed none were present. He then excused himself to "chat with the military officers who knew nothing about golden dates."

Outside, Cheng Shaoshang and Wan Qiqi discussed Ling Buyi being the Eleventh Master, and Shaoshang recounted her past encounters with him, including how he "betrayed" her to her father after she helped him find his way, and her role in exposing Princess Yuchang’s feigned drowning to attract Ling Buyi during the Lantern Festival. Wan Qiqi noted that the capital had indeed laughed at Princess Yuchang then. Wan Qiqi advised Shaoshang not to tell her mother about her involvement.

Both agreed the banquet was a "trap" and found each other’s straightforward company preferable to the "pretentious aristocratic women." Wan Qiqi also shared that her father admired Cheng Shaoshang, finding her unlike her "rigid and conservative" mother, a sentiment Shaoshang reciprocated, feeling a deep connection with Wan Qiqi. Wan Qiqi, angered by Cheng Song's past slanders, left with Cheng Yang to confront him.

Cheng Shaoshang chose to wander alone, warning her companions to be cautious of the seemingly delicate noble ladies. She then encountered Yuan Shen, who remarked on her "old dame" attire, sparking a playful argument. Cheng Shaoshang thanked him for his previous help with his teacher. Yuan Shen, however, stated that since the matter was resolved, and he wouldn't ask her to rebel, act in bad faith, or marry him, they should part ways.

Cheng Shaoshang insisted their matter was not over. Meanwhile, Prince Xiao pursued He Zhaojun in the garden, expressing his desire to propose. He Zhaojun hesitated, citing their short acquaintance and her existing betrothal to Lou Yao. Prince Xiao dismissed Lou Yao as dull and monotonous, sympathizing with He Zhaojun’s past complaints about him. This conversation was overheard by Lou Yao, who then confronted He Zhaojun.

She clarified that she hadn’t accepted Prince Xiao’s proposal and would reject him if Lou Yao treated her better, adding that she didn't want him to become a laughingstock by breaking their engagement. Hurt, Lou Yao stated she could marry Prince Xiao, as he wasn't attached to their engagement and only honored it out of family principle.

Provoked, He Zhaojun defiantly agreed to break the engagement and marry Prince Xiao, praising him as "a thousand times better" and describing a future of happiness and travel with him in Shu, where he had a villa. Lou Yao agreed to the broken engagement. He Zhaojun then spotted Cheng Shaoshang and, in a fit of anger, shouted at her to stop staring, threatening to gouge out her eyes. Lou Yao apologized to Cheng Shaoshang for He Zhaojun’s outburst.

Cheng Shaoshang asked Yuan Shen why he hadn't pulled her away, to which he replied, "Men and women should not be intimate," and reminded her they were supposed to part ways. Cheng Shaoshang again stated their matter was not over. Yuan Shen then identified Lou Yao and He Zhaojun, explaining their betrothal.

Cheng Shaoshang expressed disinterest, prompting Yuan Shen to lecture her on the importance of studying aristocratic family lineages, sacrificial rites, and proper conduct, criticizing her lack of skills beyond quarreling, and offering to recommend female tutors. Cheng Shaoshang dismissed him. From a high platform, Ling Buyi observed Cheng Shaoshang, lost in thought. He then instructed his subordinates to investigate officials who had traveled between the capital and Shu in the past six months.

He suspected Prince Xiao of colluding with Shu, noting that large shipments of military armaments to Shu were suspicious given years of peace, and feared Shu harbored disloyal intentions, necessitating swift preparation. Back in the garden, a servant's cries drew attention to Cheng Yang, who had fallen into the water. Cheng Shaoshang, finding Cheng Yang’s handkerchief near the pond, then discovered a horse tripping rope, which she quickly cut before rescuing her cousin.

As Wang Ling and her companions shoved her, Cheng Shaoshang retaliated, hitting Wang Ling while accusing them of the "dirty trick." Cheng Yang tried to de-escalate, fearing family disgrace. Wang Ling further provoked Cheng Shaoshang, accusing her of ruining Princess Yuchang’s plans and seducing the Eleventh Master, then launching into insults about Cheng Shaoshang’s lack of parents and proper upbringing. Cheng Shaoshang, enraged, fought back, shouting that it was for bullying her cousin.

As others approached, Cheng Shaoshang strategically inflicted injuries on her own face to appear more severely harmed. In a rear chamber, Wang Ling cried out in pain, while Cheng Shaoshang feigned weakness in Wan Qiqi’s arms. Lady Ruyang summoned the matriarchs for a confrontation. Wan Qiqi staunchly defended Cheng Shaoshang, accusing Lady Ruyang of bias. Although both girls appeared disheveled, Cheng Shaoshang's self-inflicted injuries made her look significantly worse.

She played the pitiful victim, contrasting with Wang Ling’s sharp and aggressive denials. As the argument escalated, Ling Buyi arrived, presenting the horse tripping rope he had found in the garden, noting its Ruyang Mansion emblem. He offered it as evidence and sarcastically challenged Lady Ruyang to inspect the hands of those involved in the attack for abrasions, calling their plot "stupid."

He warned Lady Ruyang that if she failed to administer justice impartially, he would take the matter to the Ministry of Justice himself the following day. Due to Ling Buyi's unyielding stance, Lady Ruyang quickly decided to downplay the incident. When Wang Ling attempted to garner sympathy, Cheng Shaoshang dramatically fainted, bringing the matter to a swift and inconclusive end.

Later, Lianfang expressed sadness over Cheng Shaoshang's visible injuries, but Cheng Shaoshang, rather smugly, revealed her self-inflicted wounds were superficial and that Wang Ling's waist injury, strategically inflicted, would take much longer to heal. Xiao Yuanyi summoned Cheng Shaoshang to Jiuzhui Hall. Fearing severe punishment, Cheng Shaoshang quickly instructed Lianfang to find her brothers for a "rescue." At Jiuzhui Hall, Cheng Shaoshang continued her act, looking frail and almost collapsing as she knelt, which deeply pained Cheng Shi.

She offered a feigned apology but subtly defended her actions, claiming she was protecting Cheng Yang and the family’s honor. Cheng Shi, concerned about her face, worried about her chances for marriage. Xiao Yuanyi demanded Cheng Shaoshang specify her mistake. Cheng Shaoshang defiantly declared that her mistake was promising never to fight again, even if her cousin was bullied, she was humiliated, the Cheng family was slandered, or even if someone tried to kill her.

Cheng Shi rebuked her for her defiance, asking why she hadn't sought the elders' help instead of resorting to violence. Xiao Yuanyi, undeterred, ordered Cheng Shaoshang to apologize to Wang Ling at General Wang’s residence the next day. Cheng Shaoshang refused, stating Wang Ling deserved her injuries, further enraging Xiao Yuanyi. As Xiao Yuanyi prepared to inflict corporal punishment, Cheng Song and Cheng Shaogong rushed in to plead on their sister's behalf.

Seizing the opportunity, Cheng Shi ordered everyone to "get out," effectively allowing Cheng Shaoshang to escape punishment by leaving with her brothers. Realizing the issue was not truly resolved, Cheng Shaoshang decided to run away from home. She soon encountered Yuan Shen, and to escape the cold, she got into his carriage. Yuan Shen mocked her "self-defeating bitter trick" and her fierce nature, predicting she would no longer be invited to aristocratic banquets.

Cheng Shaoshang brushed it off, stating she wasn't afraid and would simply decline future invitations. Yuan Shen then mentioned his mother had planned to invite her to a plum blossom viewing, to which Cheng Shaoshang bluntly asked if he was trying to arrange a marriage interview.

Yuan Shen chastised her for her lack of shyness, then described the ideal wife for the Yuan family's eldest son—dignified, virtuous, compassionate, and skilled in managing household affairs and rituals, unlike Cheng Shaoshang who resorted to "punching people." Cheng Shaoshang thanked him, and he gave her some Ziyu Ointment for her injuries, claiming they were "unsightly," then urged her to leave his carriage and go home, so as not to "scare people" with her appearance.

Shortly after she exited, Cheng Song and Cheng Shaogong found her, informing her that Xiao Yuanyi had changed her mind and would only punish her with writing. Unwilling to accept this, Cheng Shaoshang decided to seek refuge at Wan Qiqi's residence, sending Lianfang back with her brothers. Meanwhile, Ling Buyi arrived at General Wan's residence. General Wan feigned ignorance of his purpose, assuming Ling Buyi was there to admire his collection of treasures.

Ling Buyi cut to the chase, asking for a "map of Shu." General Wan, misunderstanding, initially thought he meant "erotic paintings," then clarified, confirming it was indeed the "map of Shu." General Wan vehemently denied possessing such a map, asserting that if he had acquired it during the Shu campaign, he would have presented it to the Emperor, not left it for Ling Buyi to investigate. Ling Buyi pressed him, asking if he "truly didn't have it" and "truly wouldn't hand it over," but General Wan insisted he couldn't hand over what he didn't possess.

Episode 9 Recap

Ling Buyi arrived at General Wan Songbai's residence at night, immediately requesting the geographical map of Shu. Wan Songbai initially feigned ignorance and tried to dismiss him, but then Cheng Shaoshang unexpectedly appeared, seeking shelter. She was bruised and battered, and Wan Songbai, after initially not recognizing her, expressed concern for her condition and quickly agreed to let her stay.

Despite his earlier statement about not eating at other residences, Ling Buyi then declared he would be staying the night in the guest room, claiming dinner wasn't prepared at his own home, much to Wan Songbai's surprise. That evening, Cheng Shaoshang paid her respects to Old Madam Wan, who sympathized with her injuries and criticized Wang Ling for the beating. Old Madam Wan encouraged Cheng Shaoshang to stay longer.

Mrs. Wan, however, criticized Cheng Shaoshang for being impulsive and prone to fighting, suggesting more ladylike ways of handling conflict. Old Madam Wan disagreed, defending Cheng Shaoshang's spirited nature and comparing her to her own younger self. She expressed disapproval of Xiao Yuanyi's approach to raising Cheng Shaoshang and emphasized that in turbulent times, true allies must be willing to defend each other.

Mrs. Wan, feeling guilty for not bearing a son for Wan Songbai, offered to let him take a concubine, but Old Madam Wan firmly refused, stating she was not so "foolish and corrupt." Later, a servant reported that Wan Songbai was drunk and resting in his study, and that Ling Buyi was staying in the guest room without having consumed any alcohol, causing Old Madam Wan's expression to change.

In their room, Wan Qiqi offered Cheng Shaoshang some Qianlizui, boasting she had "snatched" it from her father. Cheng Shaoshang then inquired about Old Madam Wan's left ear. Wan Qiqi explained that after her grandfather's early death, when her father was a child, grasping granduncles tried to seize their family property and force her grandmother to remarry.

To prove her unwavering resolve and loyalty to her late husband, who had always loved and respected her despite her humble origins, Old Madam Wan dramatically cut off her left ear and threw it at the lead instigator, vowing never to remarry. Cheng Shaoshang was deeply impressed by Old Madam Wan's heroism.

While Wan Qiqi dreamed of marrying a great hero, Cheng Shaoshang, believing her mother had not prepared her for a life of military command or aristocratic society, desired only a stable life with an ordinary man, acknowledging her fate was never her own. Ling Buyi, having overheard this conversation from outside their window, walked away thoughtfully. Meanwhile, Lou Yao hesitated at the door of his elder brother Lou Ben's room.

Lou Ben emerged and encouraged Lou Yao to be more assertive, even comparing him to Cheng Shaoshang who at least "dared to fight." Lou Yao confessed his wish to break off his engagement with He Zhaojun, citing their incompatible personalities and her public relationship with Prince Xiao. To Lou Yao's surprise, Lou Ben readily agreed, promising full support and stating he would not allow Lou Yao to sacrifice his happiness for an alliance.

Lou Ben then probed if Lou Yao had developed feelings for someone new, which Lou Yao denied for the time being, vowing to share any such news with his brother first. The next morning, Wan Qiqi planned to take Cheng Shaoshang to the horse training ground. Cheng Shaoshang, however, was keen to inspect the mansion's architecture, particularly an old, swaying arched bridge over Bihu Lake. The steward informed Wan Songbai that the intricate bridge required complete demolition and rebuilding.

Cheng Shaoshang, a keen observer of construction, asked Wan Qiqi to go to the stables first, allowing her to examine the bridge's delicate structure. As she realized how unstable the bridge was, Ling Buyi and Wan Songbai approached. Cheng Shaoshang quickly hid beneath the bridge. Ling Buyi pressed Wan Songbai about the geographical map of Shu, emphasizing its crucial importance for His Majesty's upcoming western tour. Wan Songbai continued to deny knowledge, dismissing it as a mere "treasure map."

Ling Buyi, fully aware of Cheng Shaoshang's presence below, deliberately stepped on the "dangerous bridge," highlighting its fragility, before departing. After Ling Buyi and Wan Songbai left, Cheng Shaoshang quickly went to the horse training ground. While attempting to ride a horse, she almost fell. Ling Buyi swiftly intervened, stabilizing the horse and guiding her feet into the stirrups. He then offered advice on mastery, comparing taming a horse to handling life's challenges.

Cheng Shaoshang, uncomfortable with his proximity, cited the "propriety between men and women" as her reason for being uneasy. Ling Buyi playfully retorted that she had grabbed his arm tightly and sarcastically claimed his closeness stemmed from his long-standing "admiration" for her, which she, however, did not return. Cheng Shaoshang, flustered, tried to dismiss his "admiration" as nonsense, reminding him of his past remark comparing her to an "interrogator" at the Ministry of Justice.

Ling Buyi retorted that a person who eavesdropped on military secrets would be considered a "wanted criminal," not an interrogator, at the Ministry of Justice, implying he knew she had overheard his conversation under the bridge. Cheng Shaoshang vehemently denied hearing anything from under the bridge, prompting Ling Buyi to smirk before he slapped the horse, sending it galloping with a startled Cheng Shaoshang.

To secure Cheng Shaoshang's assistance in retrieving the map, Ling Buyi revealed the true seriousness of the situation. He explained his suspicion that her granduncle's lost armaments might have been transported to Shu, suggesting a brewing rebellion. He warned that if His Majesty discovered Wan Songbai was secretly holding the map, both the Wan and Cheng families could face grave consequences due to their close ties and the Cheng family's previous involvement in the armament case.

He acknowledged that Wan Songbai likely viewed the map innocently as a "treasure map." Having searched most of the residence except Old Madam Wan's private chambers, Ling Buyi sought Cheng Shaoshang's help, stating his intention was to protect the Wan family. In return for her cooperation, he pledged to keep her secret about eavesdropping at the "dangerous bridge" and promised to fulfill a wish for her in the future.

Cheng Shaoshang accepted the terms and, disguised as Wan Qiqi, infiltrated the study. Old Madam Wan entered the study, and sensing Cheng Shaoshang's presence, she cleverly played along, pretending "Qiqi" was playing hide-and-seek. She then dismissed her servants and, feigning tiredness, instructed "Qiqi" to place her pearl hairpin in a "fragrant rosewood box with flower carvings" on the bookshelf.

Crucially, she issued a stern warning not to touch the prized "box made from red sandalwood" belonging to Wan Songbai, claiming that doing so would be a greater offense than stealing Qianlizui. Cheng Shaoshang, understanding the hidden message, retrieved the geographical map from the forbidden red sandalwood box. After Cheng Shaoshang reported her success to Ling Buyi, he made his departure from Wan Songbai, promising to return for a future "big celebration" of the Wan family. Wan Songbai was relieved.

However, Old Madam Wan later subtly explained to her son that Ling Buyi's departure indicated he had successfully acquired the map, revealing her role in assisting him, which Mrs. Wan did not fully grasp. That evening, as Cheng Shaoshang left the Wan residence to return home, she and Wan Qiqi were startled by Wan Songbai's screams echoing from his study. Upon her return home, Cheng Shaoshang immediately sought out her parents.

She expressed regret for her past desire to leave and her newfound appreciation for home, which pleased her father, Cheng Shi, even though Xiao Yuanyi remained cynical about her apparent change of heart. Cheng Shaoshang then revealed that Ling Buyi had been at the Wan residence searching for the geographical map of Shu, explaining that she had overheard his suspicions that her granduncle's lost armaments had potentially been sold to Shu, hinting at a possible rebellion.

Xiao Yuanyi sternly admonished Cheng Shaoshang for discussing such sensitive national affairs, cautioning Cheng Shi not to involve himself, and ordered Cheng Shaoshang to keep the matter a complete secret, stating that her silence would atone for her previous misdeeds. Cheng Shi agreed with the need for discretion. Despite giving her this reprieve, Xiao Yuanyi still expressed a desire to question Cheng Shaoshang further, much to Cheng Shi's confusion.

With the geographical map confirming Shu's potential for rebellion, Ling Buyi explained his strategic plan to his subordinate. He clarified that by having Old Madam Wan "gift" the map through Cheng Shaoshang, rather than having his guards seize it, he spared the Wan family from treason charges, aligning with His Majesty's benevolent view of the matter as a misunderstanding.

Ling Buyi anticipated that His Majesty's upcoming western tour, intended as a deterrent, would likely be misinterpreted by the guilty parties in Shu as an imminent attack. This miscalculation, he believed, would cause them to "jump the gun," allowing him to implement a "shut the door and beat the dog" strategy to force their hand. As part of this plan, that very night, Lord Yong's mansion reported an intrusion by a stealthy thief, though nothing was reported stolen. Shortly thereafter, Ling Buyi, leading his black armored guard, swiftly surrounded the entire mansion, ordering a thorough investigation.

Episode 10 Recap

Ling Buyi, accompanied by his black armored guards, surrounded Lord Yong's residence. Prince Xiao confronted him, demanding the reason for his late visit. Ling Buyi claimed he had heard of intruders in Prince Xiao's residence and had come to assist in their capture, despite Prince Xiao's assertion that no crime had occurred.

Ling Buyi insisted that such reckless crooks, who had recently robbed General Wan's residence, must be apprehended to prevent unrest in the capital and ordered his guards to search the entire residence. Prince Xiao, furious, reminded Ling Buyi that the residence was effectively Lord Yong's, but Ling Buyi defiantly stated he would enter any residence he wished. After the search yielded nothing, Prince Xiao urged Ling Buyi to leave.

Before departing, Ling Buyi observed a plaque inscribed with "Steadfast Allegiance," praising Lord Yong's loyalty and subtly questioning if Prince Xiao would uphold his father's reputation. After Ling Buyi's departure, Prince Xiao expressed concern that Ling Buyi was now suspicious of them and decided to postpone their dealings with Fan Chang, fearing they would be caught. The Wan Family celebrated Old Madam Wan's birthday with a grand banquet.

Wan Songbai, limping from a previous injury, greeted guests with his wife and daughter, Wan Qiqi. Cheng Shi, Xiao Yuanyi, and Cheng Shaoshang arrived to offer their congratulations. Cheng Shi remarked on His Majesty granting Old Madam Wan the title of Noble Lady, making it a joyous occasion. Wan Songbai expressed that honoring his mother felt even more significant than his own promotions. Inside, guests separated by age and gender.

Wan Qiqi confided in Cheng Shaoshang about her grandmother having given her father a severe beating, explaining his limp. Before entering, Xiao Yuanyi sternly warned Cheng Shaoshang not to cause any trouble, threatening her with a beating if she did. Cheng Shaoshang, aware of Wang Ling's presence, assured Qiqi that she would control herself and not get into a fight.

Cheng Shaoshang feigned a stomachache to temporarily excuse herself from Wan Qiqi, then secretly manipulated the structural integrity of a small, decorative bridge in the garden by removing key wooden supports. She returned to the garden where other young women were enjoying themselves. The festive mood shifted with the belated arrival of Princess Yuchang and her entourage, including Wang Ling. Wan Qiqi exchanged barbed comments with Wang Ling, sarcastically "welcoming" them and questioning their true motives for attending.

Lou Yao appeared, attempting to shepherd his younger sister, Lou Li, away, reminding her that their mother had tasked him with her supervision. However, Wang Ling immediately launched into a cruel taunt, mocking Lou Yao about his impending broken engagement with He Zhaojun, implying his incompetence was the cause. As Lou Yao struggled to respond, Wang Ling grew more venomous, suggesting that only a "boorish and uneducated girl" like Cheng Shaoshang would suit him.

Cheng Shaoshang intervened, calmly pointing out that ending an engagement was common and that Wang Ling's public shaming of He Zhaojun was far more uncouth. When Wang Ling tried to deflect, Cheng Shaoshang continued, subtly praising Princess Yuchang's decorum while pointedly criticizing Wang Ling for her coarse behavior, suggesting she learn from the princess instead of mimicking Shaoshang's "boorish" ways. The exchange escalated until Wang Ling swore.

Cheng Shaoshang feigned shock and loudly informed Princess Yuchang of Wang Ling's vulgarity, before turning as if to strike Wang Ling, who recoiled in terror, recalling a previous painful encounter with Shaoshang. Meanwhile, the young men were engaged in a competitive game. Ling Buyi arrived, declining to participate, declaring such "childish games" beneath him as he usually draws his bow to kill. Wan Songbai urged him not to spoil the festive mood.

Ling Buyi then suggested that the scenery elsewhere was more interesting and invited Yuan Shen to join him in "admiring the flowers." He then subtly signaled to Cheng Shaoshang. Shaoshang seized the opportunity, subtly guiding the other young women towards a window, feigning disinterest in the "lack of flowers" to pique their curiosity about Ling Buyi and Yuan Shen. Upon seeing the handsome men, the girls, especially Princess Yuchang, became eager to get a closer look.

Princess Yuchang declared she couldn't see clearly and suggested they move onto a nearby bridge for a better view. Despite warning signs that the bridge was fragile, they rushed onto it. Wan Songbai, noticing the gathering on the precarious bridge, realized the impending disaster but was too late to intervene. The bridge, already weakened by Cheng Shaoshang's earlier actions, collapsed under the weight, sending the noble ladies tumbling into the water. Princess Yuchang was mortified and cried hysterically.

Wan Qiqi, hidden behind a rock with Cheng Shaoshang, found the scene hilarious, particularly the disheveled Princess Yuchang and mud-covered Wang Ling. Cheng Shaoshang, satisfied with her unseen revenge, watched the chaos with amusement. After the disastrous banquet, Old Madam Wan clarified to Wan Songbai that the collapsed bridge was a "stacking bridge," an ancient device that could be dismantled by removing a few key planks, causing it to instantly collapse when stepped upon.

She recognized Cheng Shaoshang's ingenious revenge against Wang Ling, noting that Shaoshang had also cleverly erected warning signs to absolve the Wan family of responsibility. While Old Madam Wan admired Shaoshang's willingness to retaliate, she also sent a letter to Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi, believing they needed to understand their daughter's assertive nature, her pride in her intelligence, and her stubborn refusal to admit fault.

Upon receiving the letter, Xiao Yuanyi declared that Cheng Shaoshang's actions could not be overlooked. She saw Shaoshang's recklessness as a dangerous trait that needed to be curbed, especially her tendency to know something is wrong but do it anyway, relying on her cleverness to get away with it. To teach Shaoshang a severe lesson, Xiao Yuanyi decided to impose military punishment.

Cheng Shi, along with his third brother Cheng Zhi and his wife Shunhua, tried to devise a plan: Cheng Shi would hide outside, waiting for Xiao Yuanyi's signal of a smashed cup to intervene and plead for Shaoshang. Cheng Zhi expressed his discomfort, fearing the military rod's severity. Xiao Yuanyi, aware of Shaoshang's stubbornness, insisted on a harsh punishment to make her bleed and learn.

She strategically placed the onus of punishment on herself, so Cheng Shi could later play the compassionate parent. Qingcong summoned Cheng Shaoshang to Jiuzhui Hall. Shaoshang, resigned to her fate, acknowledged that this time, no one could save her. She knelt before Xiao Yuanyi, admitting to collapsing the bridge out of a desire for revenge and offering herself for punishment. Despite Xiao Yuanyi's stern questioning about her repeated defiance after warnings, Shaoshang remained defiant, refusing to admit wrongdoing.

Declaring that Shaoshang's stubbornness needed to be broken for the family's sake, Xiao Yuanyi ordered Qingcong to administer military punishment without mercy, then turned her back, unable to watch her daughter endure the brutal beating. Cheng Shi, Cheng Zhi, and Shunhua, observing from outside, realized that Xiao Yuanyi was truly administering severe military punishment, well beyond their planned pretense. Fearing for Cheng Shaoshang's life, Cheng Shi burst into the hall, ordering the beating to stop.

He rushed to Shaoshang's side, finding her barely conscious. Cheng Shi and Shunhua quickly arranged for a physician and criticized Xiao Yuanyi for her harshness, questioning how she could inflict such pain on her own daughter instead of teaching her. Xiao Yuanyi, feeling attacked and misunderstood, retorted that she was being unfairly portrayed as the villain while everyone else claimed to be in the right.

In a fit of anger, she declared that she would no longer care for Cheng Shaoshang and ordered Cheng Zhi to take her to Hua County when he assumed his new post. Despite her agony, Cheng Shaoshang weakly accepted, agreeing to leave the Cheng family, affirming it was a "deal." Later, Cheng Shi visited Shaoshang, comforting her and expressing his unwavering pride in her, even as he acknowledged her pain.

He then confronted Xiao Yuanyi, describing Shaoshang's suffering, including crying out in her sleep and trembling as the physician applied ointment. Meanwhile, Wan Qiqi also visited Shaoshang, gloating about the humiliation of Wang Ling and Princess Yuchang, and asking how Xiao Yuanyi had discovered Shaoshang's involvement. Shaoshang immediately suspected Ling Buyi, especially when a servant arrived with military wound medicine from him, claiming it would heal her wounds in three days.

Enraged by what she perceived as his betrayal, Shaoshang accused him of planting spies and threw the medicine out. Ling Buyi's subordinate reported that Prince Xiao had been too intimidated to leave his residence since the raid. Ling Buyi speculated that the mastermind behind the recent events would not miss the opportunity during His Majesty's upcoming western tour.

He instructed his men to increase their surveillance and deployments, aiming to uncover the true conspirators with minimal casualties during the potentially risky journey. He then dismissively told his subordinate to keep the unused wound medicine for himself. The next day, Cheng Shaoshang prepared to depart for Hua County with Cheng Zhi and Shunhua. The family gathered to bid them farewell, with many offering words of caution and encouragement.

Cheng Shaoshang, despite her recent punishment and still in pain, assured her father and other family members that she was eager to explore the world and would take good care of herself. She cast a hopeful glance back at the residence, secretly wishing to see Xiao Yuanyi, but her mother was conspicuously absent from the farewell crowd. Unbeknownst to Cheng Shaoshang, Xiao Yuanyi watched from a distance, her eyes filled with sorrow.

She feigned indifference to Qingcong, claiming she was merely passing by on her way to the ancestral home. Qingcong, however, gently pointed out Xiao Yuanyi's thoughtful actions, revealing that she had discreetly assigned her personal military servants to accompany Cheng Shaoshang and ensure her protection on the journey, acknowledging that despite her seemingly stubborn exterior, Cheng Shaoshang possessed a kind heart, much like Xiao Yuanyi herself. The carriage then slowly departed from the capital.

Episode 11 Recap

As the group began their journey, they soon heard horse hooves approaching from behind their caravan. A family attendant reported that Lou Yao, Grand Tutor Lou's nephew, wished to see Cheng Shaoshang. Cheng Zhi alighted from the carriage to greet Lou Yao, who immediately dismounted and bowed respectfully. After polite exchanges, Lou Yao explained his purpose, stating that he admired Cheng Shaoshang's character and felt compelled to thank her for rescuing him at the Lantern Festival and the Wan Mansion.

He offered to escort and protect their convoy. Cheng Shaoshang's voice emerged from within the carriage as Lou Yao, emboldened, confessed his admiration for her. He even acknowledged her clever scheme of causing others to fall from the bridge, assuring her he had seen her remove the wooden support but had not told anyone. Shaoshang, however, was not pleased.

She corrected his misunderstanding, revealing that she wasn't leaving due to illness but had been exiled from the capital under military paddle punishment by her mother, Xiao Yuanyi, a punishment that was already severe enough. Lou Yao clarified that he wasn't seeking to punish her further, believing Wang Ling deserved the lesson.

Shaoshang, uninterested in his apologies or his romantic overtures, dismissed him, asserting that his recently broken engagement was irrelevant to her and that he shouldn't use her "misdeed" as leverage to pressure her. She made it clear she had no feelings for him and bid him farewell. Although rejected, Lou Yao remained determined, acknowledging Shaoshang's courage and tenacity, which he found unique and admirable, resolving not to give up on pursuing her. The caravan continued its journey eastward.

Shaoshang, however, could not appreciate the scenery, as Lou Yao persistently followed them, keeping a respectful distance. Cheng Zhi, feeling a touch of sympathy, sent some food to Lou Yao, which Shaoshang did not prevent, giving Lou Yao a glimmer of hope. Imitating Cheng Zhi's doting care for Sang Shunhua, Lou Yao extended the same attentiveness to Shaoshang, much to her annoyance. She eventually pleaded with her Third Uncle to persuade him to leave.

Lou Yao, impressed that Cheng Zhi had married the daughter of the Master of Mount Bailu, sought his advice on courtship. Cheng Zhi, however, told Lou Yao that he could not simply imitate him, as their personalities and circumstances were different. Cheng Zhi humorously described himself as talented and dashing compared to Lou Yao's timid demeanor, emphasizing that Sang Shunhua loved him for who he was.

He advised Lou Yao that the best approach was to be genuinely sincere and allow Shaoshang to perceive his heartfelt feelings, rather than trying to force anything, and suggested he return home. Meanwhile, Cheng Shaoshang spoke with Sang Shunhua, expressing her desire for a future husband who would be as gentle, considerate, and obedient as Cheng Zhi, willing to follow her lead in all things.

Sang Shunhua confided a long-kept secret, revealing that she had initially been betrothed to Huangfu Yi, Yuan Shen's master. He had left for seven years to escape trouble, and after broadening his horizons, he eventually broke off their engagement. Shaoshang quickly deduced that Huangfu Yi was indeed Yuan Shen's master, noting the master's "fickle-minded" nature and the disciple's "disloyal" traits.

Elsewhere, Huangfu Yi, still dwelling on the past, mused about Sang Shunhua potentially joining Cheng Zhi in Hua County, but Yuan Shen wisely advised his master to let go of old attachments to avoid further heartbreak, as Sang Shunhua was now married. Reflecting on Sang Shunhua's story, Shaoshang lamented her Third Aunt's lost years on an unworthy person. Sang Shunhua gently countered that perhaps missing the unworthy person allowed her to find someone more deserving.

Shaoshang, however, disagreed, explaining her inherent bad luck and her resolve to hold onto a good husband once she found him, rather than risk missing out on a better one. When Sang Shunhua asked if Lou Yao might be that person, Shaoshang stated she didn't know him well enough to trust him as an irreplaceable match.

During a rest stop, the group was drawn to the sound of singing and discovered Ah Miao, one of the military servants, singing beautifully under a tree. Moved by the scene, Shaoshang expressed her longing for a simple, free life in the mountains, filled with music and without constraints. Lou Yao, listening nearby, silently took her words to heart. Two days later, the caravan finally entered Yanzhou territory.

Before proceeding to Hua County, Cheng Zhi insisted on taking a detour to visit an old friend in Qing County. As they approached the city gates, his expression changed drastically. In previous years, Qing County's gates would be bustling with merchants, farmers selling their harvests, and hunters appraising furs. Now, the gates were tightly shut, devoid of people or even guards, an anomaly that signaled deep trouble.

Fearing for his old friend's safety, Cheng Zhi decided to take a single attendant and investigate, leaving the rest of the household and military servants to guard the women. Not long after Cheng Zhi departed, dozens of bandits ambushed the caravan. The dense forests and deep ravines echoed with the sounds of battle, as the military servants engaged the attackers in close quarters.

During the skirmish, a supply cart overturned, causing Sang Shunhua to sustain minor injuries, making further strenuous travel unsuitable. Cheng Shaoshang took charge, ordering the removal of all large luggage chests from a carriage to lighten it. They continued their journey on a quicker, lighter course, using a topographic map that Lou Yao had previously offered (originally drawn by his elder brother) to locate a vacant hunting lodge.

Shaoshang then meticulously used the tools available in the lodge to prepare a strong defense. As Shaoshang had anticipated, a large group of bandits soon returned. The military servants swiftly deployed tripwires to impede their horses, followed by a dense volley of arrows. However, the bandit leader managed to abduct Ah Miao. Shaoshang watched in despair as Ah Miao was carried away on horseback, feeling a chill in her heart.

That night, she was consumed by remorse, realizing that her life hung by a thread and that those around her could perish at any moment. Sang Shunhua comforted Shaoshang, urging her not to grieve, assuring her that she had done exceptionally well and even Cheng Zhi might not have managed the situation more thoroughly. She reminded Shaoshang that in chaotic times, human lives were cheap. She articulated a philosophy of duty: "To protect one person is for oneself.

To protect a hundred people is for fellow villagers. To protect ten thousand people is for the world." It was this very compassion for the common people, Sang Shunhua explained, that had led Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi to leave Shaoshang behind and rush to the aid of Gu City, to bring an end to the era of turmoil. A military servant soon reported that the bodies of the fallen bandits had been collected by their comrades.

Shaoshang recalled the bandits' organized attack and retreat, and their curious disregard for the abandoned valuables. This led her to remember Ling Buyi's past remarks about the armament case. She concluded that these were not ordinary bandits, but rather Shu rebels. She reasoned that the military armaments involved in her granduncle's case had been transported to Shu. With Shu, which had seemingly submitted for years, accumulating weapons, it likely harbored rebellious intentions.

Moreover, with His Majesty's impending western tour, the rebels were seizing the opportunity to attempt an assassination. Shaoshang surmised that her group had stumbled upon their advance scouts, and the rebels were now desperate to eliminate them to prevent their plot from being exposed. Recognizing their dire situation, Shaoshang decided that their immediate priority was to delay the enemy as long as possible, hoping to survive until reinforcements could arrive.

Episode 12 Recap

At the city gates of Hua County, flames blazed and thick black smoke billowed, staining the sky a bloody hue. The rebel leader, Fan Chang, rounded up many civilians, threatening to kill them one by one if Old Official Cheng did not open the city gates. He declared that he would cut out their hearts and dig out their livers for the magistrate to see, demonstrating his ruthless intent.

Old Official Cheng understood that the rebels sought to ambush His Majesty on his western tour to incite a rebellion. To protect the city's inhabitants, he decided to lure the rebels away himself. He ordered the fastest soldiers to break through the siege and report the situation to Ling Buyi, requesting his aid.

Along with his family and other soldiers, Old Official Cheng bravely rode out to confront the enemy, vowing to have the city gates welded shut once they were outside, preventing any retreat until the rebels were vanquished. Meanwhile, far away, Xiao Yuanyi awoke from a nightmare, crying out her daughter's name. Qingcong and Cheng Yang urged her to rest.

After Cheng Yang left, Qingcong observed that Xiao Yuanyi, who once dozed off over military reports during campaigns with her husband, now worried incessantly about Cheng Shaoshang despite her denials. Qingcong noted that true parental affection was undeniable, no matter the distance. She added that Cheng Shaoshang, having never witnessed genuine hardship, mistakenly believed her sheltered life at the Cheng family mansion was pitiful, suggesting she needed to experience the struggles of ordinary people to understand true suffering.

Old Official Cheng died a martyr, and Fan Chang's rebel forces breached the city, unleashing a wave of destruction, burning, killing, and looting. Old Official Cheng's young granddaughter, Nannan, bravely guarded the official seal, remembering her grandfather's last instructions to deliver it to the new County Magistrate, her "Uncle Cheng." When the rebels attacked her, Ling Buyi and his black-armored guards arrived just in time to repel them.

Fan Chang fled, but Ling Buyi was struck by an arrow while protecting Nannan. He commanded his subordinates to pursue Fan Chang relentlessly and to prepare a report on the rebellion in Shu for His Majesty. Upon learning that Cheng Shaoshang and Cheng Zhi's party were traveling to Hua County, Ling Buyi's expression changed dramatically. Despite his injury, he quickly mounted his horse and rode off with a detachment to rescue them.

Meanwhile, the rebels who had attacked Cheng Shaoshang's convoy the previous day returned. Cheng Shaoshang bravely opened the gates of their makeshift fort to confront them, exposing them as not mere bandits but rebel forces. The rebel leader confirmed her suspicions, revealing the gruesome details of A-Miao's tragic death, which devastated Cheng Shaoshang. Outnumbered and facing heavily armed rebels, Cheng Shaoshang's household guards were at a severe disadvantage.

Just as the rebel leader was about to strike Cheng Shaoshang, Ling Buyi and his black-armored guards swept in like a tide. Their thunderous hooves crushed the rebels, leaving few survivors who cried out in surrender. With the immediate danger gone, Cheng Shaoshang immediately took charge, leading the wounded inside to be treated. She boiled water and prepared medicine, stemming bleeding and bandaging wounds.

Ling Buyi, noticing her discomfort while tending to the gruesome injuries, offered her his handkerchief, which was infused with calming powder. Cheng Shaoshang thanked him and suggested she stay to care for the wounded to avoid delaying his troops' progress. Unexpectedly, Ling Buyi declared that he too would stay to recover. His arrow, broken off by himself, had barely half an inch of its tip exposed, making extraction difficult, and the wound had been left untreated for some time.

The medic admitted he was unable to remove it without causing excessive bleeding. Cheng Shaoshang then conceived a plan. She retrieved a "Shaoshang string" given to her by Wan Qiqi, carefully threading the delicate cord into Ling Buyi's skin to hook the rusted arrowhead. With precise movements, she pulled it out. Throughout the painful process, Ling Buyi clenched his jaw without uttering a sound. Afterwards, he gently reassured Cheng Shaoshang, telling her not to blame herself.

Ling Buyi identified the broken arrow as a newly manufactured military armament, confirming it was stolen. He then confronted the remaining captured rebels. Though he had initially offered to spare their lives, seeing Cheng Shaoshang's desire for vengeance for A-Miao, he personally executed them. Cheng Shaoshang watched from the bushes, her emotions a complex mix of sorrow and confusion. Ling Buyi, hearing her movements, turned and sighed, then advised her to drink calming soup before sleep.

As orderly as their arrival, Ling Buyi and his black-armored guards departed. Reaching the mountainside, he glanced back at Cheng Shaoshang in a silent farewell. Cheng Shaoshang stood at the head of her group, watching the bodies of her fallen household servants being consumed by the pyre, silently mourning the innocent lives lost. After everything was settled, Third Uncle Cheng Zhi finally arrived. Before Cheng Shaoshang could speak, he frantically stumbled towards his wife, Shunhua.

Soon, sobs erupted from the carriage, followed by Cheng Zhi's accusations against Lou Yao for fainting multiple times and delaying their journey. Cheng Shaoshang questioned Lou Yao, who explained that Cheng Zhi had mistakenly believed Shunhua and Cheng Shaoshang had died, leading to his repeated bouts of grief-stricken unconsciousness. Upon hearing the disjointed account, Cheng Shaoshang felt a surge of anger.

She and her Third Aunt had faced life-and-death situations, while her Third Uncle and Lou Yao had wandered aimlessly, completely safe – truly a case of different fates. With a sigh of resignation, the convoy continued towards Hua County. As their cartwheels rolled through pools of blood, the city gates slowly opened to a horrific scene: countless casualties, widespread desolation, burnt homes, and displaced people. The devastation left everyone utterly shocked.

Episode 13 Recap

The episode opens with Cheng Zhi's arrival at the devastated Hua County. He is informed by a subordinate that Old Official Cheng and his family have tragically died as martyrs for the city. Deeply affected, Cheng Zhi retreats to mourn. Cheng Shaoshang observes his grief and speaks with Sang Shunhua, noting Cheng Zhi's self-blame for his delayed arrival, believing it left Old Official Cheng to face the enemies alone.

Sang Shunhua explains that Old Official Cheng and Cheng Zhi shared a bond like father and son. Cheng Shaoshang questions why the elderly and ailing Old Official Cheng had to risk his life, suggesting others could have fought.

Sang Shunhua responds that while the Emperor might not fault him, an official must bravely set an example for the people, and in troubled times, capable individuals must step forward without hesitation, much like Cheng Shaoshang's own parents did when they valiantly went to Gu City. Later, Ling Buyi's festering shoulder wound is being treated. He attempts to spare Emperor Wen the sight of the gruesome procedure, but the Emperor refuses to leave, emphasizing his profound bond with Ling Buyi.

Emperor Wen scolds Ling Buyi for delaying his treatment and recklessly endangering his life, urging him to settle down and marry. Ling Buyi adamantly rejects any forced marriage, recalling a previous attempt four years ago with Princess Yuchang, and declares he would rather die fighting in barbarian lands if compelled. Emperor Wen expresses his heartache, recounting his brotherly relationship with Ling Buyi's uncle, who sacrificed his entire family for the country.

To atone for his inability to save them, Emperor Wen bestowed all the Huo family's honors upon Ling Buyi, hoping he would live well, marry, and continue the Huo lineage. Ling Buyi insists he only desires a loving marriage, like his uncle's, not a capricious one like that of Marquis Chengyang, who abandoned Ling Buyi's mother, leading to a lifetime of mutual hatred. He declares his preference for remaining solitary.

Emperor Wen later questions Ling Buyi's subordinates about the general's injuries. Liang Qiu Fei clarifies that Ling Buyi's wound was not inflicted by Fan Chang but worsened due to delayed treatment. Ling Buyi had initially been tasked with attacking rebels in Hua County, but upon learning that the new county magistrate had not yet arrived and might be in danger, he turned back to rescue the official's female family members.

Liang Qiu Fei further explains that it was the young lady he saved, Cheng Shaoshang, who haphazardly pulled out the arrow, exacerbating Ling Buyi's injury while he was preoccupied with pursuing the rebels. Intrigued, Emperor Wen presses for more details about Cheng Shaoshang, Marquis Quling's youngest daughter. Meanwhile, a subordinate reports that Cheng Xiaomei, Old Official Cheng's granddaughter, is gravely injured from being kicked in the chest by a bandit.

Cheng Shaoshang rushes to the infirmary, a visit that stirs childhood memories of being taunted and told her parents had abandoned her. Despite her severe injuries, Cheng Xiaomei displays a fierce will to live, calling out for her deceased grandfather, father, and brother. Cheng Shaoshang comforts her, promising to procure any rare medicines needed for her recovery. She then confronts other injured residents who have succumbed to despair.

She passionately reminds them that Old Official Cheng and his family sacrificed their lives for the city's survival, challenging them to consider how they could so easily abandon the life bought by such a profound sacrifice. Her powerful words ignite a renewed will to live in the people, who then agree to receive medical treatment. With the town's spirit revived, Cheng Shaoshang dedicates herself to the monumental task of rebuilding Hua County.

Lou Yao, consistently by her side, provides meticulous assistance. When confronted with insufficient funds for building materials, Lou Yao selflessly donates all his valuables, including a precious Lou family heirloom. He acknowledges that his privileged upbringing had shielded him from financial concerns. Inspired by his sincerity, Cheng Shaoshang proposes a public fundraising initiative: offering commendation plaques to merchants who donate over three hundred strings of cash.

Cheng Zhi initially hesitates, finding the use of an official seal for such a "tactic" rather absurd. However, Cheng Shaoshang explains that it cleverly leverages human desire for a good reputation, proving to be a cost-effective way to secure much-needed funds. Convinced by her logic, Cheng Zhi agrees, and soon, ample funds are raised.

Cheng Shaoshang and Lou Yao then oversee the reconstruction efforts, following her designs that incorporate practical features like higher roof beams for better light and cassava flour in plaster for increased strength. Cheng Xiaomei, hearing the vibrant activity outside, shares her dreams of a restored Hua County, drawing a house with windows, a flowery roof, and a butterfly on Lou Yao's face. Cheng Shaoshang and Lou Yao assure her she will live to see Hua County flourish once more.

Ling Buyi's subordinates report Hua County's remarkable recovery, noting that Cheng Shaoshang is unaware that Ling Buyi made the largest anonymous donation. Ling Buyi confirms this was intentional, explaining that revealing his identity could be misconstrued as coercion, potentially undermining Cheng Shaoshang's efforts. Meanwhile, Lou Yao continues his devoted attention to Cheng Shaoshang, earning her praises for his thoughtfulness and efficiency.

Cheng Shaoshang playfully remarks that only he and her father truly appreciate her and casually offers to introduce him to Cheng Shi, her father. Overjoyed, Lou Yao excitedly leaves to buy more sweet dumplings, while Cheng Zhi and Sang Shunhua, having overheard their conversation, exchange knowing smiles. Back in the capital, Emperor Wen reads Cheng Zhi's report, commending his capabilities and praising Cheng Shaoshang as a virtuous and talented niece.

Noticing Ling Buyi has recovered, he agrees when Ling Buyi volunteers to deliver an imperial edict posthumously honoring Old Official Cheng to Hua County. At the same time, Huangfu Yi learns of Sang Shunhua's perilous journey to Hua County and, deeply concerned, decides he must go to meet her. He expresses profound regret for his past actions and vows to confess his guilt before he dies. Yuan Shen, also present and concerned about Cheng Shaoshang's well-being, decides to accompany Huangfu Yi on his journey to Hua County.

Episode 14 Recap

Days after Old Official Cheng's passing, an imperial edict arrived in Hua County. Huangfu Yi and his apprentice accompanied the edict but remained unseen, observing from afar. Witnessing Cheng Zhi's tender care for Sang Shunhua, Huangfu Yi decided against an immediate meeting, realizing an untimely appearance would only cause awkwardness, and chose to return home. Ling Buyi, acting on the imperial decree, presided over the funeral.

The edict proclaimed that Cheng Shicheng, the county governor of Hua County, was benevolent and righteous, treated his people well and amicably, and that his achievements would be recognized by future generations as a praiseworthy virtuous official. Thus, he was posthumously conferred as a Second-ranked Secondary Marquis.

As the coffin was raised, the entire city's residents, including Zheng Gang, Zheng Zhiming, Song Qilin, Yu Chengli, and Ji Jiameng, wept, bidding farewell to Old Official Cheng and reflecting on the peace they had secured with their lives. Cheng Shaoshang seemed to mature overnight, grasping many profound truths. Lou Yao realized why his elder brother insisted he pursue official achievements.

He understood that being an official allowed one to benefit the people, and he promised Cheng Shaoshang that he would emulate Old Official Cheng, using his abilities to bring grace to the public, which he now saw as the true calling of a scholar. Cheng Shaoshang was deeply moved, her gaze at Lou Yao noticeably softened. This tender moment was observed by both Ling Buyi and Yuan Shen.

Meanwhile, in the infirmary, Cheng Shaoshang clutched Nannan's cold little hand, finally breaking down in tears. Despite her dedicated care, wrapping wounds and feeding medicine, Nannan could not overcome her injuries. In her last moments, filled with pain and reluctance, Nannan handed Cheng Shaoshang a piece of maltose candy and closed her eyes. She whispered to Shaoshang, "I'm sorry. I think I'm going to be with Grandfather, Father, and Brother."

Shaoshang tearfully urged her to live, but Nannan insisted Shaoshang not cry, reminding her that Grandfather said her future was filled with good luck and that she would find an affectionate man. Nannan then gave all her good luck to Shaoshang, saying, "You'll be happy. I'll hear you play your flute from heaven." Cheng Shaoshang brought Nannan a sweet maltose candy, promising her she could sleep peacefully without pain, and offered to play the flute for her one last time.

Overcome with grief, Cheng Shaoshang personally arranged for Nannan's burial with her family and stood before the grave, playing a mournful tune on her flute. Ling Buyi passed by, intending to offer comfort, but Lou Yao was already by her side. Cheng Shaoshang expressed a profound sense of helplessness, lamenting her inability to save Nannan or fight on the battlefield like her father and brothers. She questioned her worth, feeling useless compared to those who could save lives or fight.

She confessed her hatred for those with bloodstained hands but felt powerless to help anyone. Lou Yao firmly disagreed with her self-deprecation, telling her, "You're the most perfect lady in the world." He reassured her that Nannan died without regrets because Shaoshang had shown her a vision of her rebuilt home. He also spoke of the infirmary patients, whom Shaoshang had inspired to live again.

Then he included himself, stating that he used to feel useless until he worked with Shaoshang to rebuild Hua County by researching ancient texts, constructing houses, and helping villagers. He encouraged her to listen to the people outside, who admired her contributions. Shaoshang asked, "Really?" and Lou Yao swore that if he became an official in the future, he wanted to build a peaceful land with her where children like Nannan would thrive and never suffer separation again.

Lou Yao then confessed his admiration for Shaoshang, telling her she dared to say and do what others wouldn't. He explained that following her was the first time he'd defied his elders, wanting to be as fearless as she was, and vowed to become stronger and more independent, no longer indifferent or weak. He asserted they shared the same fate and aspirations, having both been manipulated by destiny.

From that day on, he promised to believe in her, just as she always believed in him, and wished to walk alongside her, not questioning their past or morality, but only moving forward together. Shaoshang, feeling a warmth rise within her, accepted him. As he heard Lou Yao's heartfelt confession, Ling Buyi stood in the pouring rain, unfazed by the cold. The earnest warmth radiating from Lou Yao seemed to dispel the biting chill.

Ling Buyi turned and left without a word, knowing his hands were stained with blood, and he was no longer worthy of Cheng Shaoshang. He had previously commented to his subordinate that Shaoshang would not want to see people like him, who commit acts of bloodshed, even if it was for protection. He acknowledged that his hands were still tainted with blood.

With his decision made, Lou Yao immediately wrote to his family elders and informed Cheng Zhi of his intent to propose marriage with betrothal gifts. Cheng Zhi, having witnessed Lou Yao's good character, promptly sent a swift message to his elder brother, Cheng Shi. However, Sang Shunhua looked serious, urging Cheng Shaoshang to consider carefully. Cheng Shaoshang, unfamiliar with romantic love, believed Lou Yao treated her with utmost sincerity, honesty, and simplicity, making him a suitable match.

Sang Shunhua privately asked Shaoshang if she was truly serious about Lou Yao's proposal. Shaoshang confirmed, asking if Lou Yao had any misdeeds or if the Lou family elders disliked her. Sang Shunhua assured her that Lou Yao's ex-fiancée, He Zhaojun, would have exposed any flaws, and the Lou family showed no prejudice by sending gifts. Shaoshang stated she chose "the one suitable in front of me," not "the best in the world."

In the capital, Wen Di reviewed Fan Chang's blood-written confession, where Fan Chang expressed remorse for his foolish obsession and resentment towards the Emperor, asking for execution. Remembering their past as comrades in the Battle of Kunyang, where Fan Chang, though severely wounded, helped him conquer a city, Wen Di considered granting clemency. However, Ling Buyi interjected, asserting that Fan Chang's confession was a ploy.

He argued that Fan Chang's family had remained openly in their lair, indicating Fan Chang’s certainty of success in the assassination, which would have plunged the court into chaos, preventing any retribution. Ling Buyi pointed out that Fan Chang, even now, only invoked brotherhood but refused to name his accomplices, proving his lack of true repentance. Ji Zun agreed.

Wen Di, finding Ling Buyi's reasoning sound, ordered Fan Chang to be brought back to the capital for further interrogation to uncover the mastermind. Wen Di then chided Ling Buyi to be happier and marry soon, as his serious demeanor would scare off any wife.

When asked by Wen Di who else was getting married, Ji Zun reported on Lou Yao, the second son of the Lou Family's second branch, who had followed Young Lady Cheng to Hua County and become famous for saving a damsel in distress. He confirmed that General Cheng and Grand Tutor Lou had approved the marriage, and betrothal gifts had been sent, with General Cheng even traveling to Hua County to meet his future son-in-law.

Ling Buyi, upon hearing this, abruptly excused himself, citing official duties, his mood turning visibly somber. Wen Di then commented on Cheng Shi having only one daughter, expressing regret and calling Cheng Shi useless. Meanwhile, Cheng Shi galloped to Hua County, initially planning to put on airs and test Lou Yao. But upon realizing Lou Yao's genuine affection for his daughter, he beamed with joy and readily approved the marriage.

His wife, Xiao Yuanyi, vehemently opposed the union, arguing that Lou Yao's second branch of the family was disadvantaged, and Cheng Shaoshang would undoubtedly suffer hardship there. She resolved to return the betrothal gifts. Old Madam Cheng, unwilling to part with the valuable gifts, shamelessly tried to force Xiao Yuanyi to accept the marriage. Xiao Yuanyi, however, ordered her military servants to escort Old Madam Cheng back to her room and had all the betrothal gifts sealed.

Xiao Yuanyi, a decisive woman, traveled swiftly to Hua County and arrived within days. She found Lou Yao climbing a tree to retrieve a kite for Cheng Shaoshang. Lou Yao quickly greeted her, but Xiao Yuanyi did not accept his pleasantries. She bombarded him with a series of sharp questions, leaving him speechless.

She reminded him of the adage that a gentleman should avoid situations that arouse suspicion and questioned how he and Shaoshang could use pet names when they were not yet betrothed or married. Shaoshang tried to argue that her father and Grand Tutor Lou had already approved the betrothal and sent gifts.

However, Xiao Yuanyi pointed out that none of the traditional marriage rituals, such as sending a matchmaker or exchanging birth dates, had been followed, nor had she, the mother, been consulted. Cheng Shi tried to interject, but Xiao Yuanyi held her ground, declaring the betrothal invalid and stating that they could not accept such lavish gifts.

She then told Lou Yao that Shaoshang's unconventional upbringing made her an unsuitable match for the prominent Lou clan and advised him to refuse the betrothal for his and Shaoshang's own good. Lou Yao defended Shaoshang, praising her courage, responsibility, wisdom, and compassion. Xiao Yuanyi, however, stated that even if Shaoshang was exceptional, she was not suitable for him. As Cheng Shaoshang defended Lou Yao, Cheng Shi and others arrived.

Xiao Yuanyi publicly questioned Cheng Shi about not following proper betrothal rituals, asking if they had sent a matchmaker, asked for names, exchanged birth dates, or consulted a fortune teller, and most importantly, if he had asked her, the mother. Cheng Shi, usually shrewd, often let Xiao Yuanyi handle minor matters but had a clear stance on significant ones. His current unusual silence indicated the seriousness of the situation.

Cheng Zhi looked at his niece with pity, while Sang Shunhua remained silent. Cheng Shaoshang, however, believed Xiao Yuanyi's obstruction was not directed at Lou Yao but at herself. Xiao Yuanyi, infuriated by this, declared she truly didn't care if Shaoshang married into the underworld, regardless of life or death. Xiao Yuanyi then ordered Shaoshang to return to her room and avoid Lou Yao to prevent further rumors.

Later that night, Cheng Shaoshang and Lou Yao met in secret, only to be caught by Xiao Yuanyi. As Lou Yao hastily left, Shaoshang felt deeply wronged, lamenting that despite facing life and death together, her mother remained unchanged. When Xiao Yuanyi scolded her, Shaoshang retorted, questioning why they had to meet secretly when their marriage was being publicly discussed.

Xiao Yuanyi dismissed Shaoshang's efforts to rebuild Hua County as mere "little tricks" and accused her of not understanding marital affection. She insisted Shaoshang had no genuine feelings for Lou Yao, arguing that without true affection, they couldn't withstand life's hardships as a couple. Shaoshang countered, saying there were countless types of couples, and not all had to be the same; some could simply be partners supporting each other.

Xiao Yuanyi reiterated that Shaoshang didn't understand love, to which Shaoshang angrily admitted her ignorance, stating, "That's because no one taught me when I was a child. You abandoned me after I was born. Now, you've returned. How are you qualified to restrict me?" Xiao Yuanyi, enraged, decided to wait and see how Shaoshang and Lou Yao would lead a good life. Sang Shunhua was forced to intervene in the escalating argument between mother and daughter.

Episode 15 Recap

To better understand love between a man and a woman, Cheng Shaoshang persuaded Fu Deng to find her some relevant scrolls. However, to her surprise, most of them contained indecent content. Lou Yao, hearing that Cheng Shaoshang was studying diligently, brought her some liquor. They examined the scrolls together, but Cheng Shaoshang strongly disagreed with their views, opposing the idea of women constantly trying to please their husbands without any independence.

Cheng Shaoshang believed the most beautiful kind of love was for two people to walk side by side as equals, not for one to be superior and the other inferior, or one to lead and the other to follow. Lou Yao supported Cheng Shaoshang's idea, affirming that as long as two people are compatible, they shouldn't be bound by the words in books. He suggested they discard the scrolls and simply drink together.

Lou Yao then asked if Cheng Shaoshang would still be with him if her mother remained against their betrothal. Cheng Shaoshang firmly declared that no matter how her mother opposed it, she would stand by him. She then proposed that they should write their own love story for others to learn from, not follow old texts. Meanwhile, Sang Shunhua urged Xiao Yuanyi not to interfere too much with her children's marriages, especially Niaoniao's.

Xiao Yuanyi, however, considered Lou Yao to be of good character and a rare suitable husband, but worried that his family’s second branch was weak and sparsely populated, leaving Niaoniao vulnerable to bullying. Xiao Yuanyi feared her daughter would suffer once married. Sang Shunhua understood her concerns and suggested a strategy: if parents oppose a relationship, the couple might feel like star-crossed lovers and fight for their union.

Instead, she advised letting them develop their relationship freely; then, they would discover for themselves if the match was truly suitable. Xiao Yuanyi expressed her frustration, stating that rules always took precedence for her and that her elder niece, Yangyang, should marry first. Despite Sang Shunhua’s appeals, Xiao Yuanyi remained resolute in her opposition to the marriage. With Xiao Yuanyi’s temporary hands-off approach, Cheng Shaoshang and Lou Yao became more unrestrained.

While outwardly appearing docile and agreeable, the very next day, they were riding a chariot to a tea plantation. As they passed through scenic fields, Cheng Shaoshang spontaneously played a light and cheerful flute tune that carried on the wind, filled with vibrant hope. Her melody captivated everyone accompanying them. As the music ended, a rich, powerful voice suddenly emanated from the hillside.

Huangfu Yi, dressed in a straw cape and carrying a bamboo hat, slowly approached, introducing himself and capturing Cheng Shaoshang's attention. Upon learning he still pined for her Third Aunt, Cheng Shaoshang spoke protectively of her Third Uncle, Cheng Zhi, trying to help Huangfu Yi put the past behind him. As the sky threatened rain, Huangfu Yi invited them to his courtyard for shelter. Cheng Shaoshang, wanting to hear the story of Huangfu Yi and her Third Aunt, reluctantly agreed.

After a short walk up the gentle slope, they saw a large, spacious pavilion at the summit, where Ling Buyi and Yuan Shen were present. Cheng Shaoshang asked Ling Buyi about his injuries. Ling Buyi offered no response, but Lou Yao eagerly announced their betrothal, proclaiming Cheng Shaoshang as their future sister-in-law. Both Ling Buyi and Yuan Shen received this news with displeasure. As thunder boomed, Lou Yao instinctively covered Cheng Shaoshang’s ears, his gesture both intimate and tender.

As the rain intensified, Ling Buyi’s subordinates prepared vehicles. Ling Buyi insisted that Cheng Shaoshang take his carriage, noting her recent recovery from a cold and the inadequacy of her smaller chariot against the wind and rain. He offered Lou Yao a straw cape and a horse to ride alongside his men.

In the carriage, Cheng Shaoshang saw neatly arranged broken arrows and a Shaoshang string, which reminded her of the day she treated Ling Buyi’s wounds, stirring complex emotions within her. Yuan Shen, under the guise of testing his studies, questioned Lou Yao about his betrothal to Cheng Shaoshang. He even spoke ill of Cheng Shaoshang, calling her cunning and manipulative.

Lou Yao, however, defended her, saying she was merely resourceful and clever, not malicious, and insisted she was not as bad as Yuan Shen imagined. That evening, Huangfu Yi hosted a banquet. Yuan Shen deliberately separated Cheng Shaoshang and Lou Yao, arranging for Cheng Shaoshang to sit opposite Ling Buyi. As the wine flowed, Huangfu Yi's gaze fell upon Cheng Shaoshang, reminding him of an old friend. Saddened, he decided to recount a story—his own.

He spoke of a talented young man from a noble family who, despite being fatherless, gained fame and admiration. This young man had a childhood fiancée whom he deemed unworthy due to her ordinary appearance. The young man's family was later implicated in a scandal involving Emperor Li, forcing him to flee. He wandered for seven years. During this time, his fiancée, Sang Shunhua, defied her family's advice to break the engagement.

She steadfastly took care of his family and endured mistreatment from his mother, all while waiting for his return. Huangfu Yi’s story continued, describing how a loyal bodyguard, indebted to the young man's late father, died protecting him during exile and entrusted his orphaned daughter to him. This obligation, Huangfu Yi stated, ultimately severed his former love.

As revealed in a flashback from Sang Shunhua, Huangfu Yi had been due to return for her father's birthday and their marriage after seven years. But the orphaned girl, whom he had cared for for two years, chose to commit suicide with poison on that very day, delaying his return and causing Sang Shunhua immense humiliation at the banquet. Huangfu Yi recounted how his fiancée waited a day and a night, but he did not appear.

When he finally met her after pleading, she immediately broke off the engagement. He confessed he never understood why she took offense over such a trivial matter. Cheng Shaoshang questioned if the young man knew his fiancée was aware of his initial disdain for her appearance. Huangfu Yi claimed those were youthful thoughts, later replaced by sincere affection.

Cheng Shaoshang countered that the fiancée didn't want his gratitude but to be "in his heart," and called the young man a "conceited and fickle scoundrel." The debate escalated between Cheng Shaoshang and Yuan Shen, with Yuan Shen implicitly defending Huangfu Yi and accusing Cheng Shaoshang of being sharp-tongued. Cheng Shaoshang then challenged Ling Buyi to a hypothetical: if his fiancée and an orphaned girl were drowning, whom would he save first?

Ling Buyi declared he would "naturally save my fiancée first," to ensure "nothing happens to his loved one." Lou Yao quickly agreed, saying he would save Cheng Shaoshang first, which deeply touched her. Cheng Shaoshang then concluded that the fiancée broke off the engagement because the two lacked mutual trust, and she wanted to prove that her feelings, though from an ordinary woman, should not be easily insulted.

As the gathering dispersed, Ling Buyi approached Cheng Shaoshang, offering her a cloak to ward off the night's chill. He reflected on the story, saying that the fiancée was a woman of great wisdom who knew when to let go, finding true happiness with the right person.

He then told Cheng Shaoshang that in life, choosing the right person and the right path is a great blessing, subtly asking if she was sure the man she had chosen was the right one. Before Cheng Shaoshang could reply, Lou Yao arrived with a cloak for her, urging her to put it on to avoid catching a cold. Ling Buyi watched silently as Cheng Shaoshang turned and walked away hand-in-hand with Lou Yao.

Episode 16 Recap

Drunk and filled with regret, Huangfu Yi lamented his past decisions concerning Sang Shunhua, questioning if he had been wrong and if she would have returned to him had he been more decisive. Yuan Shen, his disciple, gently advised him to let go of the past, explaining that intense love often leads to frustration and paranoia, and that moving forward was crucial.

He pointed out that Sang Shunhua was now happily married to Cheng Zhi, a devoted and talented man, whose happiness far surpassed what Huangfu Yi could have offered. Despite Yuan Shen's pleas for him to rest, Huangfu Yi spent the entire night in anguish, with Yuan Shen dutifully staying by his side until exhaustion overcame him at dawn. The next morning, Ling Buyi had thoughtfully arranged for a larger, sturdier horse to pull Cheng Shaoshang's carriage, ensuring a smoother journey.

Lou Yao noticed the change, remarking on Ling Buyi's consideration. Lou Yao also mentioned that Huangfu Yi's disciple, Yuan Shen, seemed exhausted, joking that he must have been frightened by what sounded like wolf howls during the night. Upon their return to Hua County, Cheng Shaoshang immediately sought out her Third Aunt, Sang Shunhua, to talk about Huangfu Yi.

Sang Shunhua, who had been informed by a letter from Huangfu Yi, warned Cheng Shaoshang that Huangfu Yi was a bad man who had betrayed her in the past and was now shamelessly pestering her. She advised her niece to learn from her own experience: marriage is just one path in life, and a woman should never lose herself for a man.

Cheng Shaoshang reassured her aunt that she and Lou Yao would be content together, promising to ensure Sang Shunhua's comfort and well-being, including follow-up medical checks and a new wheelchair. Third Uncle Cheng Zhi encouraged Cheng Shaoshang to be obedient to her parents back home.

As they prepared to depart for the capital, Cheng Shaoshang shared a heartfelt, tearful farewell with Sang Shunhua, a sight that stirred a hint of jealousy in Xiao Yuanyi, who recalled Cheng Shaoshang's less emotional departure to Hua County. Cheng Shi playfully questioned his wife about how she knew, implying she must have secretly watched. As their caravan set off, Lou Yao once again rode his horse to follow them.

Cheng Zhi and his wife reflected on the rapid transformation of Cheng Shaoshang and Lou Yao's relationship, from initial distance to undeniable closeness, a bond Xiao Yuanyi compared to the profound faith in her own marriage with Cheng Shi. At the Almond Blossom Courtyard, Ling Buyi visited his mother, Huo Junhua. Her mind, broken by her husband Ling Yi's betrayal years ago, remained trapped in the time before her marriage.

Cui You, a man who had loved her for years and remained unmarried, was also present, though Huo Junhua only saw him as a childhood friend. The tense peace was shattered by the arrival of Ling Yi himself. At the sight of him, Huo Junhua flew into a rage, screaming for his life before being escorted back to her room. Unfazed, Ling Yi informed his son that a key prisoner, Fan Chang, had escaped from the heavily guarded imperial prison.

Citing the case's complexity and the powerful figures involved, Ling Yi warned Ling Buyi to abandon the investigation to avoid disaster. During the journey, Cheng Shaoshang and Lou Yao openly displayed their affection. Observing Cheng Shaoshang feeding Lou Yao, Cheng Shi light-heartedly teased Xiao Yuanyi, suggesting their daughter was treating Lou Yao "like an animal" and humorously proposing that they, as an "old couple," should demonstrate true affection by hand-feeding each other.

Xiao Yuanyi, however, was more observant, noting the unusually tight security at the city gates, where entry was permitted but exit was not, suggesting something serious was happening. As their caravan approached the capital, they were halted at the city gates. Cheng Shi presented his imperial order for passage, but the gate officer, while respectful, explained that a strict lockdown was in place due to an escaped fugitive.

All entrants, regardless of rank, had to be thoroughly inspected, and he apologetically informed Cheng Shi they might have to wait until the next day. Just as Cheng Shi was at a loss, Ling Buyi appeared, leading light cavalry on patrol. He directly addressed the gate officer, dismissing the barriers as ineffective and merely inconveniencing the public, especially since the fugitive had escaped from the heavily guarded imperial prison.

Turning to Cheng Shaoshang, Ling Buyi greeted her and inquired about her injury. Cheng Shaoshang explained to her parents that Ling Buyi had saved her and Third Aunt from bandits. Ling Buyi then stated publicly that he and Cheng Shaoshang had faced life-or-death situations together, and she had even treated his wounds. Seeing her pale complexion and the long queue, he offered to personally escort her into the city. With a decisive command, his cavalry swiftly formed two respectful lines.

After a brief farewell to Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi, Ling Buyi advised them to take the Yuyang side path rather than the main road, before quickly departing with his cavalry. Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi exchanged stunned looks, pondering the full meaning of Ling Buyi's public actions and words. Once inside the city, Cheng Shaoshang, relieved, urged Lou Yao to quickly inform his mother of their engagement. Lou Yao bid farewell and rode off.

Meanwhile, Emperor Wen Di, upon hearing of Ling Buyi's actions, mused over his possible feelings for Cheng Shaoshang. His attendant reminded him of Cheng Shaoshang's engagement to the Lou family, which saddened the Emperor. He reflected on Ling Buyi's public image as "unfilial," asserting that he was, in fact, "the epitome of filial piety" and deserved happiness, despite constant slanders from jealous officials.

The Emperor defended Ling Buyi, noting that Fan Chang's escape was due to the Ministry of Justice's negligence, not Ling Buyi's fault. He expressed unwavering faith in Ling Buyi to recapture Fan Chang. Back at the Cheng residence, Cheng Old Lady burst into tears upon seeing Cheng Shi, simultaneously expressing anxiety for her younger son Cheng Zhi and directing her grievances towards Xiao Yuanyi.

Cheng Shaoshang cleverly defused the situation by offering a maid who had been with Cheng Zhi and Sang Shunhua for months to recount every detail of their time in Hua County, satisfying Cheng Old Lady's concerns. Xiao Yuanyi and Cheng Shi then summoned Cheng Shaoshang to a private room, still processing Ling Buyi's recent display.

Cheng Shaoshang downplayed her encounters with Ling Buyi, claiming they had met only "seven or eight times" and dismissing her parents' inquiries about Ling Buyi's feelings for her as laughable. She firmly stated that Lou Yao was the only one who had proposed to her, and since Ling Buyi was always engaged in military duties or recovering, he never had the opportunity to do so, thus affirming Lou Yao as her destined match.

Xiao Yuanyi, heartbroken, passionately expressed her deep concern for Cheng Shaoshang's marriage to Lou Yao. She worried that Cheng Shaoshang's rebellious nature, combined with Lou Yao's gentle disposition and the Lou family's internal politics, would leave her daughter vulnerable. She lamented that her attempts to guide Cheng Shaoshang were met with defiance, fearing her daughter would suffer in what she considered a "tiger's den."

Cheng Shaoshang, however, remained resolute, expressing her desire for a marriage like her parents' but acknowledging her own "bad luck." She stated her firm intention to marry Lou Yao and move away to live independently, describing it as the marriage she truly wanted. Cheng Shi, attempting to console Xiao Yuanyi, suggested that Lou Yao was a decent young man and the marriage might not be entirely bad.

He also expressed relief that Cheng Shaoshang was not deeply involved with Ling Buyi, whose family background and current dangerous investigation made his situation even more perilous than the Lou family's complexities. Xiao Yuanyi, still weeping, remained unconvinced, certain that the Lou family was a perilous place and she could not bear to see her daughter endure hardship.

Episode 17 Recap

Fan Chang, protected by Prince Xiao's men, sought refuge in a suburban courtyard, expecting to meet Lord Yong to conspire for future wealth and power. He expressed his belief that his rescuers' Young Master would come and save him and cautioned against staying too close to the capital due to Ling Buyi's cunning. A black-clad man questioned if Fan Chang had implicated Prince Xiao, which Fan Chang denied.

Fan Chang recalled Prince Xiao's promise that Lord Yong would support his rebellion, with Feng Yi County and Shu joining forces for a great cause, wondering when Prince Xiao would make his move. To his horror, the black-clad man declared that "only dead people can keep a secret" before attempting to kill him. Fan Chang, realizing Prince Xiao intended to silence him, screamed for help as Ling Buyi and his black-armored guards arrived, eliminating the attackers.

Ling Buyi's soldiers noted his unusual ferocity that night, speculating that his severe mood was due to Fan Chang's escape delaying his task of escorting the Cheng family home. The next morning, Xiao Yuanyi was reported ill. Cheng Shaoshang and Cheng Yang attended her bedside. Cheng Shi hoped this would foster closeness between mother and daughter, but Xiao Yuanyi continued to criticize Cheng Shaoshang while lavishly praising Cheng Yang.

She voiced her frustration, stating she was ill from being "upset" and blamed no one but herself. When Cheng Shaoshang offered to help, Xiao Yuanyi rebuffed her, stating that Cheng Yang had cared for her in Hua County. Even when Cheng Shi pointed out Cheng Shaoshang's medical skills acquired in Hua County, Xiao Yuanyi persisted in commending Cheng Yang as "obedient and sensible," claiming it would be a blessing for any family to marry her.

She openly regretted that Cheng Shaoshang had become engaged before Cheng Yang, urging Cheng Yang to consider her own marriage. Cheng Yang, deeply rooted in the belief of parental arrangements, declared she would follow Xiao Yuanyi’s wishes, which greatly pleased her. Feeling deeply wronged by her mother's words, Cheng Shaoshang found an excuse to leave the room for fresh hot water. Wan Songbai and his daughter, Wan Qiqi, arrived to visit.

Wan Songbai praised Cheng Shaoshang's filial piety, contrasting her with Wan Qiqi, who he claimed went out fighting when he was sick. Wan Qiqi was annoyed by the comparison, and after a playful exchange with her father, she and Cheng Shaoshang retreated to the courtyard. Wan Qiqi expressed her disbelief that Cheng Shaoshang would marry Lou Yao, whom she saw as "too honest" and previously humiliated by He Zhaojun.

Cheng Shaoshang affirmed her affection for Lou Yao precisely because of his honesty. She shared that while her own parents disliked him, she valued him as an obedient partner who would assist her with tasks and even secretly provide wine when she was punished. Wan Qiqi, preferring a more "heroic" type, thought a "playmate" for a husband would be ideal.

She then wished for an obedient husband who would help her in fights and bandage her wounds, unlike Cheng Shaoshang's second brother, Cheng Song, who she complained always contradicts her. Cheng Song, who had just arrived with Cheng Shaogong, defended himself. Wan Qiqi retorted that she was "looking for a husband, not a teacher" and would not "ruin myself by finding someone who'd make me depressed." Cheng Shaogong, overhearing Wan Qiqi's desire for a husband, offered to read her fortune.

He declared her future husband was "as far as the edge of heaven and right under your nose." Despite the obvious implication that he referred to Cheng Song, Wan Qiqi feigned ignorance. Later, after the Wan family departed, Xiao Yuanyi, observing the lively children, decided they needed a teacher and a home school to instill discipline and enhance their knowledge, an idea Cheng Shi readily supported.

Upon learning of the Cheng family's plan for a home school and their search for teachers from Mount Bailu, Yuan Shen felt he was the most suitable candidate. He expressed a desire to "educate Cheng Shaoshang properly," fearing she might "behave recklessly and irritate others before she marries." When his servant pointed out the school was for the male children, Yuan Shen insisted he was not "vulgar" enough to disregard the young ladies and would teach them as well.

As he set out to volunteer, he encountered Lou Yao and his mother on their way to the Cheng residence, leading him to return home, declaring he needed to change into clothes that would make him appear "more spirited than Lou Yao" so he would not "lose my imposing manner in front of the students." When Lou Yao arrived with his mother, Second Madam Lou, Cheng Shaoshang initially offered him a cool heat-dispelling soup.

However, upon recognizing the elder woman, she immediately adopted a respectful demeanor. Second Madam Lou expressed concern for Xiao Yuanyi's health and explained that while tradition dictated she host the discussion, her illness made it difficult. She then hinted at her son's eagerness for the marriage. Pleased with Cheng Shaoshang's polite conduct, especially after the public humiliation caused by He Zhaojun's broken engagement, Second Madam Lou was eager to discuss the formal arrangements for the union.

She then congratulated General Cheng on his impending promotion, claiming her visit was twofold: to inquire about Xiao Yuanyi's health and to offer congratulations. Xiao Yuanyi acknowledged her improving health but declined the congratulatory remarks, stating that the imperial edict for General Cheng's promotion had not yet been issued, effectively refusing any "big gift" offered by Second Madam Lou. Moments later, Yuan Shen arrived, offering to teach at the Cheng family school.

He expressed admiration for General Cheng's national service, which he believed had led to the neglect of his children's education, claiming to have come after receiving a recommendation from Ms. Sang. Cheng Shi, however, humbly suggested his children were not worthy of Yuan Shen's extensive knowledge. Cheng Shaoshang then openly challenged Yuan Shen, proposing that Lou Yao, whose uncle was the Crown Prince's teacher, was perfectly capable of teaching her brothers, negating the need for an "outsider."

When she once again tried to take Lou Yao to get cool soup, Yuan Shen interjected, declaring that "drinking hot tea in the summer is the way wise men meditate and keep good health," while "only vulgar people prefer cold food and drinks." Cheng Shaoshang retorted that her father also enjoyed cold drinks, prompting Cheng Shi to quickly declare his current preference for hot soup. Both Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi clearly understood Yuan Shen's underlying motive.

Cheng Shaoshang, however, found him "fickle-minded," preferring Lou Yao's reliable honesty. Ling Buyi reported to Emperor Wen about Prince Xiao's scheme. He confirmed that Fan Chang's escape was a deliberate trap, allowing them to confirm his meeting with Prince Xiao's men, who then attempted to silence him. Fan Chang, embittered by Prince Xiao's betrayal, confessed to Ling Buyi that Prince Xiao had promised him a joint rebellion with Feng Yi County and Shu.

Emperor Wen, recalling Lord Yong's lifelong loyalty and past sacrifices, initially refused to believe he was involved. Ling Buyi, however, presented evidence that the slain conspirators were all from Feng Yi County, substantiating the plot. Emperor Wen then reflected on his own generosity, having offered Lord Yong a place in the capital and granted his eldest son a princely title, yet now questioning if it was "generous enough."

Ling Buyi cautioned that "when a person is greedy, being generous is not something that can satisfy them" and suggested summoning Lord Yong to the capital to ascertain his true allegiance. When asked about Prince Xiao, Ling Buyi revealed he had returned to his manor in Feng Yi County with his "new bride," He Zhaojun, to complete their wedding after the Hua County defeat. This revelation further angered Emperor Wen, who recognized He Zhaojun as Lou Yao's former fiancée.

He indignantly blamed Prince Xiao for "snatching" He Zhaojun, which in turn led Lou Yao to become engaged to Cheng Shaoshang, whom the Emperor considered Ling Buyi's love interest. In his eyes, this chain of events resulted in Lou Yao "snatching Zisheng's sweetheart," leaving Ling Buyi "alone and single." After Yuan Shen's visit, Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi discussed his intentions, with Cheng Shi concluding that Yuan Shen also had feelings for Cheng Shaoshang.

Xiao Yuanyi then pressed Cheng Shaoshang about her interactions with Yuan Shen. Cheng Shaoshang admitted to meeting him "five to eight times" but vehemently denied any romantic involvement, even mockingly renaming him "Yuan Shanbian" (fickle-minded). She reiterated her preference for Lou Yao, suggesting her mother's or Lou Yao's teaching would suffice for her brothers, negating Yuan Shen's need. Xiao Yuanyi scoffed at Cheng Shaoshang's high opinion of Lou Yao's intellect and dismissed her optimism about the Lou family.

She asserted that Second Madam Lou's current favor was merely a reaction to the humiliation caused by He Zhaojun's broken engagement, urging Cheng Shaoshang not to "be so pleased with yourself." To reveal the truth, Xiao Yuanyi announced that she would take Cheng Shaoshang to the Lou residence the following day to return their gifts, insisting that Cheng Shaoshang "see what everyone is like at Lou's Residence with your eyes."

This conversation underscored Xiao Yuanyi's deep concern that despite Cheng Shaoshang's self-proclaimed cleverness, she was naive about the realities of marriage into a prominent clan. Cheng Shi, however, tried to reassure his wife, remarking that Lou Yao seemed like a decent young man and that the marriage might not be a bad outcome, especially considering Ling Buyi's complicated court entanglements. The next day, Xiao Yuanyi took Cheng Shaoshang to the Lou family residence.

Cheng Shaoshang observed the magnificent compound, noting that the Second Chamber's courtyard seemed almost as grand as the First Chamber's. Inside, Second Madam Lou welcomed them, introducing First Madam Lou and Wang Yanji, Lou Ben’s wife. Cheng Shaoshang respectfully greeted First Madam Lou, who sat rigidly and without a hint of a smile, her stern demeanor reflecting a household even stricter than Lady Ruyang's. Wang Yanji suggested Cheng Shaoshang call her "Yanji" until her marriage to Lou Yao was finalized.

Second Madam Lou, visibly cautious, frequently glanced at First Madam Lou while meticulously attending to her guests. Lou Yao himself, accustomed to constant reprimand, dared not utter a word when criticized by First Madam Lou. Second Madam Lou, overjoyed that First Madam Lou had finally consented to the marriage, lavished praise on Cheng Shaoshang, declaring her "filial and friendly" and an ideal daughter-in-law who takes good care of Lou Yao.

She then eagerly presented Cheng Shaoshang with a jade pendant as a betrothal token. Xiao Yuanyi, however, politely refused the gift, suggesting it was "still too soon to discuss marriage." First Madam Lou then deliberately stoked discord, pointing out that the jade was Second Madam Lou's personal dowry, originally intended for her eldest son's wife. She implied that Second Madam Lou’s giving it to Cheng Shaoshang meant she "prefers this younger daughter-in-law," leaving Wang Yanji looking visibly uncomfortable.

Cheng Shaoshang quickly intervened, stating to Wang Yanji that she heard from Lou Yao that she already possessed the most precious keepsake of the Lou family. She explained that while Lou Ben was traveling, he had personally crafted a bronze mirror for Wang Yanji, symbolizing unwavering love and clarity of heart, a gift far more valuable than any jade. This clever remark immediately defused the tension. First Madam Lou then suggested that Wang Yanji take Cheng Shaoshang to her room.

Lou Yao entered, excitedly greeting Cheng Shaoshang, but was immediately reprimanded by First Madam Lou for his lack of decorum. Cheng Shaoshang defended Lou Yao, claiming he merely saw his aunt as family. First Madam Lou then dispatched Lou Yao to find his uncle, stating important betrothal decisions required his presence. Wang Yanji then took Cheng Shaoshang to see the mirror. Outside, Wang Yanji sincerely thanked Cheng Shaoshang for helping the Second Chamber regain some dignity.

She confided in Cheng Shaoshang about their difficult position, explaining that since her father-in-law died early and her uncle-in-law held the prestigious position of Crown Prince's teacher, the First Chamber dominated, and First Madam Lou frequently reprimanded Lou Yao publicly. Wang Yanji expressed concern that Cheng Shaoshang would also suffer upon marrying into the Second Chamber.

Cheng Shaoshang, however, assured her that she was not someone who would allow herself to suffer grievances and would confront anyone who dared to bully Lou Yao. Their conversation was interrupted by Lou Li, who accosted Cheng Shaoshang, accusing her of lacking a proper "parental upbringing," deeming her "unworthy of the prominent Lou Family."

Cheng Shaoshang calmly countered that while she could be "rude and unreasonable" to "bossy and domineering" individuals, she treated "gentle and virtuous" women like Wang Yanji with courtesy. She challenged Lou Li to reflect on why she consistently encountered her in an "unreasonable" light. Lou Li persisted, claiming Cheng Shaoshang only had a chance to marry Lou Yao because He Zhaojun married elsewhere.

When Wang Yanji attempted to silence her, Lou Li questioned why she would side with an "outsider," further insulting the Second Chamber by claiming it "lacks parental upbringing." Cheng Shaoshang skillfully turned the accusation back on Lou Li, highlighting her disrespect towards her future sister-in-law and a guest, questioning the First Chamber's "upbringing."

Lou Li retorted that her mother preferred He Zhaojun, prompting Cheng Shaoshang to sarcastically inquire why, if First Madam Lou liked He Zhaojun so much, a First Chamber son hadn't married her. As the argument escalated, Xiao Yuanyi and First Madam Lou appeared. Xiao Yuanyi defended Cheng Shaoshang, while First Madam Lou rebuked Lou Li for her disrespectful behavior and ordered her to her room for reflection. Cheng Shaoshang then thanked First Madam Lou for her support.

Episode 18 Recap

Cheng Shaoshang and Xiao Yuanyi were riding home in their horse cart after visiting the Lou family. Xiao Yuanyi, believing that Shaoshang had witnessed the internal strife of the Lou family, asked if she regretted the engagement. Shaoshang replied that there was no family without some trouble in their relationships, even in the imperial court with sons and brothers vying for power. She reminded her mother that despite the Cheng family's difficult situation, Xiao Yuanyi had still married into it.

Shaoshang declared her decision to marry Lou Yao, whom she found loyal and honest, unlike the prodigal sons of the capital. She and Lou Yao had even discussed moving away once he secured an official post to enjoy a life of freedom. Xiao Yuanyi countered that choosing a husband should be based on good family background and outstanding character, but often such men lacked talent or ambition.

She pointed out that Lou Yao's older brother, Lou Ben, despite being skilled in both academics and martial arts, had not secured an official position. This was due to His Majesty's rule, established to balance the power between noble families and commoners, which prevented every family member from becoming an official.

Xiao Yuanyi explained that the First Madam of the Lou Family, wanting to secure an official position for her own sons, had suppressed the Second Chamber, forcing Lou Ben to abandon his political ambitions and waste his time. Meanwhile, Wang Yanji, Lou Ben’s wife, had been impressed with Cheng Shaoshang. She told her husband that if Cheng Shaoshang truly married Lou Yao, she could bring considerable benefit to the Second Chamber.

Lou Ben, however, was preoccupied with news that Lord Yong was planning a rebellion, signaling that the imperial court would soon be in need of capable officials. Concurrently, Ling Buyi's forces were actively investigating. His subordinates reported seizing some of Prince Xiao's partisans who attempted to commit suicide and confiscating brothels and theaters frequented by Prince Xiao. They also searched businesses closely associated with Prince Xiao, finding many merchants trying to pack their valuables and flee the capital.

Ling Buyi ordered roadblocks to be set up, instructing his men to assure the merchants that they would not be troubled if they told the truth. Their carriage was stopped by Ling Buyi's roadblocks. Ling Buyi recognized Cheng Shaoshang and Xiao Yuanyi and, citing the unsafe conditions, offered to escort them home. Xiao Yuanyi, sensing Ling Buyi's interest in her daughter, deliberately invited him to the Lou family's upcoming engagement banquet for Shaoshang and Lou Yao.

Ling Buyi politely declined, citing his busy military duties but adding that the capital would remain chaotic for some time and advised Shaoshang to stay indoors. To ensure Cheng Shaoshang upheld proper etiquette and would not lose face when she married into the Lou family, Xiao Yuanyi invited Yuan Shen to instruct her. Shaoshang questioned why her mother would hire a male tutor instead of a female one.

Cheng Song explained that Xiao Yuanyi believed Yuan Shen was so knowledgeable that listening to him was equivalent to reading ten scrolls. Shaoshang, feeling her own lack of education, expressed disinterest. Cheng Shaogong jokingly suggested inviting Wan Qiqi to attend classes with them, ensuring Shaoshang wouldn't be the worst student, an idea quickly supported by others. True to their plan, Wan Qiqi arrived for class, bringing lavish items to decorate her seat, proclaiming that her simple arrangements were "barely adequate."

She arranged for Cheng Yang to sit on her left and Cheng Shaoshang on her right, commenting on her golden candlestick and offering it to Cheng Yang. Wan Qiqi lightheartedly declared that if Shaoshang were a boy, she would marry her, prompting Shaoshang to suggest Wan Qiqi marry Cheng Song instead, as Cheng Song was unmarried and not her eldest brother who was already happily married and guarding the borders.

Yuan Shen interjected, remarking on Shaoshang's popularity and suggesting her popularity implied she was promiscuous. He advised Shaoshang to study hard so she could marry anyone she desired. Yuan Shen then initiated a discussion on ancient scholars' debates, asking the students for their opinions. When no one answered, he singled out Shaoshang. After dismissing the other students, Shaoshang declared that both sides were wrong.

She believed that a sage should speak clearly to avoid confusion and debate, saying the saint was creating confusion rather than solving it. Outside the classroom, Cheng Shi agreed with Shaoshang, much to Xiao Yuanyi's annoyance. Xiao Yuanyi criticized Shaoshang for her lax attitude towards studies, especially since the Lou family valued scholarly pursuits.

Lou Yao, present at the class, defended Shaoshang, explaining that her intelligence lay in practical skills like craftsmanship and construction, which she excelled at in Hua County. Yuan Shen, hearing Shaoshang's dismissive remarks about theoretical studies, pivoted to teaching "useful" stories about couples, offering a choice between "Hiding One's Mistress in A Golden House" and "Chang Men Fu" or "Courting of a Phoenix" and "To a Faithless Husband."

Yuan Shen then began to narrate the story of how love fades, stating that most couples, though initially deeply in love, eventually become estranged, or even enemies. He claimed that the person who could hurt you the most was often the one you thought you would spend your life with. Meanwhile, in Feng Yi County, Prince Xiao relentlessly tortured He Zhaojun's wet nurse, trying to force her to reveal He Zhaojun and her younger brother's whereabouts.

Prince Xiao promised to reward the He family if He Zhaojun convinced her father to join Lord Yong's rebellion, but the wet nurse staunchly refused, calling him a traitor. Despite Prince Xiao's threats to gouge her eyes and cut off her limbs, the wet nurse remained silent, sacrificing her life to protect He Zhaojun and her brother, who were hidden in a secret chamber, weeping in silent grief.

General He, true to his integrity, refused to conspire with the rebels and, though outmatched, bravely led his forces to contain Lord Yong's army within Feng Yi County. News of the rebellion in Feng Yi County reached the capital, sparking a heated debate in court. The Third Prince advocated for immediate military intervention to suppress the rebellion and deter others.

However, the Crown Prince, supported by Grand Tutor Lou, suggested appeasement first to showcase His Majesty's benevolence towards old officials like Lord Yong. Ling Buyi then revealed that General He's eldest son had died in battle that morning, a report he received from an old, trusted friend who traveled extensively. He explained that General He, initially in Feng Yi for his daughter's wedding without sufficient troops, had valiantly sacrificed himself and his sons to prevent Lord Yong's forces from spreading.

Ling Buyi volunteered to lead the counter-rebellion forces, assuring Wen Di that his old friend, who was intimately familiar with Feng Yi County's terrain, could provide a map. Wen Di, concerned for Ling Buyi's safety, initially preferred to send experienced older generals. However, Ling Buyi insisted, stating his combat skills were unmatched. Wen Di eventually relented, granting him 30,000 troops, with the condition of a triumphant return.

Grand Tutor Lou, with feigned regret, mentioned Ling Buyi would miss Lou Yao's engagement banquet the next day, but Ling Buyi retorted that his old friend was already at the Lou residence, so he would indeed be able to enjoy some wedding wine. After the court session, Wen Di privately summoned Ling Buyi, expressing deep concern for his safety, recalling his promise to the deceased Huo family.

Ling Buyi reassured him that he had been monitoring Lord Yong since the armament case, and it was his responsibility to see this matter through. Wen Di, noticing Ling Buyi's affection for Cheng Shaoshang, jokingly chided him for his recklessness due to having no one to cherish his life. He then announced he would send a pair of jade artifacts as a gift for Lou Yao and Cheng Shaoshang's engagement.

Ling Buyi seized the opportunity to request an imperial favor for Cheng Shaoshang. He asked His Majesty to publicly commend Shaoshang at the Lou family banquet for her contributions in rebuilding Hua County and suppressing bandits. This gesture would not only honor the Cheng family but also uphold the Lou family's prestige, and most importantly, it would elevate Cheng Shaoshang's standing, protecting her from future mistreatment. The next day, the Lou family hosted the engagement banquet.

The Cheng family, including Wan Qiqi, attended. First Madam Lou attempted to assert her dominance by demanding Cheng Shaoshang perform a full prostration to an elderly relative, even producing a kneeling cushion. Cheng Shaoshang deftly countered that since she and Lou Yao were not yet married, the full ritual was premature and out of place with the Lou family's strict rules. First Madam Lou, caught off guard, retreated, claiming she had already regarded Shaoshang as family.

Other female guests, observing the exchange, made snide remarks about Shaoshang's lack of manners, implying she was "useless" because she was raised by her aunt without her parents. The tension escalated, but at that moment, Ling Buyi arrived, carrying an imperial edict. He approached Cheng Shaoshang and, in front of all the guests, read His Majesty's decree. The edict praised Cheng Shaoshang for her benevolence, diligence, virtue, kindness, knowledge, and pleasant disposition.

It lauded her for assisting the innocent in Hua County and suppressing bandits in Anshan, calling her a true paragon of womanhood. The edict concluded with a blessing for her upcoming marriage to Lou Yao, bestowing a pair of jade artifacts and ten bolts of brocade. Cheng Shaoshang, blushing and overwhelmed, struggled to rise after kneeling to accept the edict. As she nearly stumbled, Ling Buyi quickly reached out to steady her.

The onlookers had varied reactions: Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi exchanged knowing glances, the other women looked on with a mix of envy and jealousy, while Wan Qiqi struggled to suppress her amusement.

Episode 19 Recap

After the imperial edict was announced, praising Cheng Shaoshang as an example for young women, the Lou family members and other female guests at the engagement banquet expressed admiration for her. Shaoshang herself was surprised, wondering if the edict was truly for her. Lou Ben later revealed to his younger brother, Lou Yao, that Ling Buyi was behind the edict, having requested it from His Majesty to honor Shaoshang and the Lou family.

Despite Lou Yao's eagerness to thank Ling Buyi, Lou Ben advised him against it, stating that Ling Buyi likely wished to keep his involvement a secret and urged Lou Yao and Cheng Shaoshang to reduce their interactions with Ling Buyi in the future. Soon after Lou Yao left, Ling Buyi confronted Lou Ben, revealing that he knew Lou Ben was the mysterious Mr. Mou.

Ling Buyi remarked on their previous correspondence, where Lou Ben addressed him more intimately, and stated that he would not easily trust someone without knowing their full background. Ling Buyi explained that His Majesty urgently needed a map of Feng Yi County to quell the rebellion, and promised Lou Ben a bright future if he assisted.

Ling Buyi also acknowledged hearing Lou Ben's earlier advice to Lou Yao about avoiding him, stating that if they were to become comrades, such limited interaction would no longer be possible. Lou Ben confessed that with his father's early death, he was left with only his mother and younger brother, Lou Yao, who had a pure heart. He acknowledged his ambition to serve in court but vowed never to harm his family.

Ling Buyi assured him that he would depart for Feng Yi County that night and that Lou Ben's family would be safe, as he only sought the map. Lou Ben promised to deliver the map to Ling Buyi that very night. Unbeknownst to them, Grand Tutor Lou had observed their conversation and, despite Lou Ben's silent acceptance, Grand Tutor Lou made a remark, asking if Lou Ben still remembered him as his uncle, indicating his disapproval and warning.

Lou Ben offered no rebuttal, but had already devised his own plans. The female guests gathered around Cheng Shaoshang, praising her, a stark contrast to their previous disdain, though Wang Ling remained critical of the Emperor's commendation. Lianfang interrupted, delivering three messages from Ling Buyi. First, he genuinely wanted to speak with her. Second, he assured her he meant no harm and asked for her trust.

Shaoshang initially refused to meet him, but Lianfang then relayed Ling Buyi's third message: if she didn't come, he would seek her out publicly, causing a scandal that would force her to break her engagement with Lou Yao and marry him instead. Outraged but cornered, Cheng Shaoshang agreed to meet him. Led by Lianfang, Cheng Shaoshang arrived at a secluded path lined with flowering trees, where Ling Buyi stood alone.

He immediately asked if she had come because he sought her, or because of his threat. Shaoshang replied that she respected his past kindness and help, but found his sudden request for a meeting inappropriate given her upcoming marriage to Lou Yao. Ling Buyi stated he had sent away Lou family servants and wanted their meeting to remain private, ensuring it wouldn't cause her trouble. He then asked her about her aspirations beyond marriage.

Cheng Shaoshang shared her desires: to compile medical knowledge for the benefit of all, to invent new farming tools to boost agricultural production, and to establish a smelter for creating various new instruments. Ling Buyi then stated that Cheng Shaoshang's heart yearned for a vast world, and that they were not meant to be on the same path. Shaoshang agreed, saying, "You are you. I am me."

Ling Buyi echoed her words and then declared that this would likely be their last meeting. Alarmed, Shaoshang asked about his destination and the duration of his mission. He revealed he would depart that very night, expecting to die on the battlefield, a soldier's fate.

Ling Buyi then advised her not to rush into relocating with Lou Yao to any remote or harsh lands just to escape her family, promising to ask the Emperor to secure a safe place for them, as he believed her delicate health would not endure hardships. Cheng Shaoshang felt uneasy hearing this. Ling Buyi then recalled that he had never truly listened to her flute playing since they met.

Cheng Shaoshang, wishing him well, promised to play for him upon his triumphant return. Ling Buyi, however, told her to save her music for her husband and stated that if he returned alive, they would be strangers and never meet again. He then dismissed her, saying she could go back while he remained there a little longer. As Cheng Shaoshang turned to leave, she couldn't help but look back at Ling Buyi's receding figure, feeling a pang of sorrow.

Back at the Cheng manor, Shaoshang sat silently, lost in thought. That night, Ling Buyi led his army to depart. Lou Ben sent the map as promised but subtly declined any further cooperation, stating he preferred a carefree life and that Ling Buyi did not need to recommend him for court. Ling Buyi lamented the loss of a capable official, realizing that Grand Tutor Lou continued to suppress the second branch of the Lou family.

He also pondered Cheng Shaoshang's future, wondering about her life married into such a restrictive environment. A month later, Yuan Shen deliberately kept Cheng Shaoshang and Lou Yao from meeting, much to Shaoshang's annoyance. Meanwhile, Ling Buyi successfully captured Lord Yong and his son, bringing an end to the rebellion in Shu.

However, General He died a martyr, and his dying wish was for his daughter, He Zhaojun, to re-establish her broken engagement with Lou Yao, as she had been betrothed to him before her marriage to Prince Xiao, whose family was now disgraced. The Emperor, saddened by General He's sacrifice, vowed to grant his final request, though he acknowledged Lou Yao's current betrothal to Cheng Shaoshang. The imperial court erupted in debate.

Wan Songbai argued that loyalty to the country was a duty, and one should not expect rewards for merit, questioning if this precedent would lead to others making similar demands. Other officials countered, emphasizing compassion for the He family's tragic sacrifice and arguing that beyond law, human sentiment must be considered. They pointed out that while Lou Yao and Cheng Shaoshang were betrothed, the marriage was not yet complete, and General He's dying wish should be honored.

The debate highlighted the conflict between adherence to protocol and showing compassion. Amidst the heated debate, Grand Tutor Lou remained silent, clearly weighing the pros and cons. Cheng Shaoshang learned of the situation from Wan Qiqi and was stunned. Her parents, Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi, were furious, declaring they would rather cancel the engagement than let their daughter suffer any humiliation.

Shaoshang understood Grand Tutor Lou's silence, believing he was merely observing to see how to best benefit his family. Shaoshang herself expressed sadness, not for herself, but for Lou Yao, who was so close to escaping his oppressive family, and now faced marrying someone he did not love. Upon hearing the news, Lou Yao immediately prepared to climb the wall to find Cheng Shaoshang, but his attempt was thwarted by Grand Tutor Lou.

In his panic, Lou Yao fell and injured his leg, earning a mocking remark from his uncle about his ineptitude. Despite his injury, Lou Yao defiantly stated his refusal to marry He Zhaojun. His mother supported him, recalling He Zhaojun's past bullying and Lou Yao's newfound happiness with Shaoshang. First Madam Lou, however, arrived under the pretense of visiting but actually intended to persuade Lou Yao to break off his engagement with Cheng Shaoshang.

She argued for the marriage with He Zhaojun, citing General He's sacrifice and the Lou family's indebtedness. Lou Yao's mother fiercely countered, accusing First Madam Lou of hypocrisy and trying to sacrifice Lou Yao to avoid having her own sons marry He Zhaojun. Lou Yao, strengthened by Cheng Shaoshang's words about fighting for the life one wants, declared that if forced, he would expose the First Chamber's manipulative actions during his wedding to He Zhaojun.

Enraged, First Madam Lou vowed to send an invitation to the Cheng family to break off the engagement immediately. Ling Buyi visited Lord Yong in the dungeons of the Ministry of Justice, having dismissed all guards to speak privately. Lord Yong, resigning himself to fate, claimed sole responsibility for the rebellion, attempting to shield his son and hoping for the Emperor's mercy based on their past friendship.

Ling Buyi sarcastically acknowledged Lord Yong's "loving father" act and then cut straight to the core issue: the "case in Gu City." Lord Yong feigned ignorance, but Ling Buyi exposed his true motives: Lord Yong had started the rebellion out of fear that the Emperor had discovered his past crime of smuggling armaments in Gu City, which led to its fall and the tragic deaths of the Emperor's sworn brother and his family.

Ling Buyi revealed the tragic irony: Xu Jinzhong, whom Lord Yong suspected of betraying him, had died before being interrogated. The Emperor had summoned Lord Yong to the capital merely to offer him a chance to explain and spare his life. It was Lord Yong's own foolishness and paranoia that sealed his fate.

Ling Buyi condemned Lord Yong for his disloyalty and lack of morals, reminding him of the countless lives lost and homes destroyed due to his selfish actions, and questioned if he had ever truly slept peacefully since then.

Episode 20 Recap

Ling Buyi finally had the opportunity to interrogate Lord Yong, the man responsible for orchestrating the sale of faulty military armaments that led to the massacre in Gu City. Ling Buyi confronted Lord Yong, demanding to know how many warriors and civilians suffered and died due to his actions, and if he could sleep soundly at night. Lord Yong attempted to justify himself, claiming he never intended harm.

He explained that during the chaotic period of vying for the throne, he feared an uncertain future and merely sought to amass wealth for a peaceful retirement. He admitted to swapping military armaments for fake ones and selling them, expressing shock that a single act had led to such disaster. Ling Buyi dismissed his excuses, telling him to explain himself to General Huo and the fallen soldiers in the underworld.

Lord Yong then tried to deflect blame, questioning why the Emperor had not investigated the delayed reinforcements and if Ling Buyi truly believed the Emperor would thoroughly investigate everything. Unmoved, Ling Buyi declared that Lord Yong would die regardless of any investigation. He delivered three fatal blows: one to avenge General He and Magistrate Cheng's families, another for the vengeful spirits of Gu City, and a final one to honor General Huo Chong.

As Lord Yong lay dying, he desperately asked how Ling Buyi would answer to His Majesty. Ling Buyi responded fiercely that he only answers to himself. After killing Lord Yong, Ling Buyi ordered his subordinates, the Liang brothers, to report to Official Ji of the Ministry of Justice that Lord Yong had committed suicide out of guilt for his treason. Although his subordinates expressed doubt, Ling Buyi insisted they follow his orders.

He then recalled Lord Yong's words about the delayed reinforcements and realized that some messengers from Gu City might have survived the city's fall. He immediately instructed his men to search for their whereabouts. Following this, Ling Buyi went to the Huo family shrine, addressing his mother, Huo Junhua. He knelt before the memorial tablet, informing her that he had uncovered and personally killed the mastermind behind the military armament embezzlement.

He swore an oath, promising never to forget the Huo family's vengeance, vowing to uncover the full truth behind Gu City's destruction, and to eliminate every guilty person. Huo Junhua, seeing his injury, became distraught. She tried to treat his wound, recalling that he used to be hemophobic as a child. Her mind then flashed back to the battlefield, where she cried out that no one had come to their aid, fearing the faulty weapons.

Ling Buyi embraced his mother tightly, reassuring her that those who sabotaged the armaments were dead, and he would seek out and punish those who failed to send reinforcements, avenging all of them. News of Ling Buyi's unauthorized killing of Lord Yong soon reached Wen Di, who was furious. He expressed concern that this act of deceiving the Emperor would invite impeachment and destabilize the hard-won peace of the imperial court.

Ling Buyi knelt defiantly, refusing to admit wrongdoing, even after Wen Di kicked him multiple times. Ling Buyi calmly stated that any punishment from the Emperor was an honor he would not evade. He justified his actions by listing Lord Yong's numerous crimes, including the deaths of innocent warriors and General He's family, asserting he was merely upholding justice for the wronged.

Wen Di, exasperated, argued that the deceased were already gone and questioned why Ling Buyi insisted on dwelling on the past, risking the chaos that had plagued the realm for decades before his reign. Ling Buyi remained silent, prompting Wen Di to punish him by demoting him by half a rank and deducting half a year's stipend, ordering him to reflect on his actions.

After Ling Buyi left, Wen Di complained to his eunuch about Ling Buyi's stubbornness, lamenting that he still hadn't grasped the Emperor's underlying concerns. Days later, the Lou family sent a letter inviting Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi to their residence. Xiao Yuanyi immediately recognized this as a transparent attempt to pressure them into canceling Cheng Shaoshang’s engagement to Lou Yao. She was enraged by their impatience, especially since the Emperor had not yet issued a decree.

A servant reported that the Lou family's messenger had even warned them not to make things difficult for His Majesty, implying the Lou family would directly appeal to the Emperor if the Chengs didn't comply. Outraged by their audacity, Xiao Yuanyi declared she would go to the Lou residence immediately with Cheng Shaoshang to confront them.

Cheng Shi offered to accompany them, but Xiao Yuanyi insisted it was a "woman's affair" and he should stay to intervene only if a fight broke out. Upon their arrival at the Lou residence, First Madam Lou was cold and arrogant. She urged them to cancel the marriage, claiming Cheng Shaoshang and Lou Yao were not destined to be together and invoking General He's tragic death and He Zhaojun's plight, subtly suggesting Cheng Shaoshang should yield out of benevolence.

Cheng Shaoshang quickly interjected, pointing out First Madam Lou's hypocrisy. First Madam Lou continued, attempting to flatter the Cheng family by acknowledging their warrior background and their presumed empathy for the He family's sacrifice. She even stated that Lou Yao's marriage to He Zhaojun would be a "social climb" for the Lou family.

Cheng Shaoshang, supported by Xiao Yuanyi, challenged First Madam Lou, asking why she didn't arrange such a "good match" for her own son, and questioned why the burden of gratitude to General He fell solely on the second branch. Cheng Shaoshang highlighted Lou Taifu's double standards, claiming seniority for benefits but shying away from responsibility.

When Lou Li tried to attack Cheng Shaoshang, Xiao Yuanyi stepped forward, stating her preference for resolving matters with swords over words, and asked First Madam Lou if she desired a physical confrontation. First Madam Lou angrily accused Xiao Yuanyi of allowing her daughter to disrespect an elder within her own home. Xiao Yuanyi, embracing her identity as a "crude female warrior," stated it was only natural for her to defend her daughter.

Cheng Shaoshang added that while she typically tried to show respect, some members of the Lou family simply didn't deserve it. First Madam Lou retorted by invoking her husband, Lou Taifu's, esteemed position. However, Xiao Yuanyi countered by citing Cheng Shi's title as Marquis Quling and the Cheng family's hard-won military achievements, asserting that they would not tolerate being bullied.

She declared that Lou Taifu himself, not his wife, should have come to apologize if they truly wished to cancel the engagement. Lou Li then loudly ordered the servants to expel them from the residence. At this, Xiao Yuanyi slapped First Madam Lou, declaring that this blow served to sever all ties, and she would never again "sully her feet" by stepping into the Lou family's dirty abode. Lou Li attempted to retaliate, but Cheng Shaoshang swiftly intervened, blocking her.

Just then, Yuan Shen arrived, observing the unfolding chaos. Lou Erfuren and her family also rushed in, with Lou Yao, whose leg was injured after he tried to scale a wall to see Cheng Shaoshang earlier. Lou Erfuren, desperate to stabilize her family's position, proposed that Cheng Shaoshang and He Zhaojun both marry Lou Yao as co-wives of equal rank, assuring them it was not about taking concubines. Xiao Yuanyi was utterly appalled by this suggestion and left in disgust.

Cheng Shaoshang turned to Lou Yao, asking for his firm decision regarding the co-wife proposal. After a moment of hesitation, Lou Yao unequivocally stated that he would never marry He Zhaojun and would never cancel his engagement with Cheng Shaoshang. Cheng Shaoshang accepted his word. As Xiao Yuanyi had left without their carriage, Yuan Shen offered Cheng Shaoshang a ride, mocking her mother's anger and Cheng Shaoshang's supposed expectation of a carriage.

Cheng Shaoshang initially refused, reminding Yuan Shen of his own teachings about propriety between men and women, but he feigned forgetfulness and then offered to explain the true reasons behind the He family's insistence on the marriage. Inside the carriage, Yuan Shen continued his sarcastic remarks, questioning Cheng Shaoshang's stubbornness in not canceling the engagement after the co-wife proposal.

Cheng Shaoshang retorted that she would have "slapped Lou Yao to death" had he agreed, but since he hadn't, her commitment remained. Yuan Shen dismissed Lou Yao as ignorant and incompetent, implying Cheng Shaoshang clung to him for control and a chance at freedom from her parents. Cheng Shaoshang fired back that her reasons were none of his concern.

Yuan Shen then elaborated on the He family's desperate situation: to protect He Zhaojun's young brother and the family's extensive assets—including troops, manors, houses, and ancestral lands—until the brother came of age, they needed a strong, scholarly family like the Lou's. He stressed that too much could go wrong over many years. Cheng Shaoshang pondered why no other noble person would marry He Zhaojun.

Yuan Shen explained that while the He family was now widely praised and He Zhaojun had a substantial dowry, untrustworthy families would simply covet their assets, while truly honorable families were unwilling to take on such a heavy burden. Cheng Shaoshang then boldly suggested that Yuan Shen himself marry He Zhaojun, praising his impeccable character, intellect, and appearance as far superior to Lou Yao's, and assuring him he would never embezzle the He family's inheritance.

Yuan Shen flatly rejected the idea, labeling it a "losing trade" given the immense commitment and the financial and manpower investment required to help the He family rebuild. He abruptly ordered his carriage to stop and curtly told Cheng Shaoshang to get out. The following day, Cheng Shaoshang and a limping Lou Yao waited at the city gate for He Zhaojun's arrival, intending to speak with her.

However, seeing He Zhaojun return in mourning, Cheng Shaoshang felt a pang of pity and hesitated. He Zhaojun emerged from her carriage, her expression calm and cold, clearly understanding Cheng Shaoshang's intentions. She invited Cheng Shaoshang to accompany her on an urgent matter. Lou Yao immediately grew wary, fearing He Zhaojun would cause trouble for Cheng Shaoshang.

But Cheng Shaoshang, spurred by He Zhaojun's challenge about her courage to "steal" a betrothed, bravely stepped into her carriage, assuring Lou Yao she would talk to He Zhaojun, and he should flee if things went awry. They arrived at the Ministry of Justice, where officials greeted He Zhaojun respectfully, indicating her authority. They proceeded directly to the execution ground, where Prince Xiao was kneeling on a wooden platform.

Prince Xiao, shackled and desperate, pleaded with He Zhaojun to show mercy to his family out of consideration for their past relationship. He Zhaojun, however, rebuked him with chilling resolve. She recounted the horrific atrocities committed by his family against hers: her eldest and fourth brothers' heads impaled on spears, her fifth brother shot dead on the battlefield, her pregnant sister-in-law stabbed to death, and her nanny's eyes gouged out and feet chopped off.

She revealed that she was the one who petitioned the Emperor to have him decapitated, overriding His Majesty's initial clemency of granting him a whole corpse due to his family's past contributions. Enraged, Prince Xiao exploded, asserting his family's role in establishing the empire and cursing He Zhaojun, vowing to haunt her as a ghost.

He Zhaojun, undeterred, declared that his family would be known as "headless traitors" for generations and that her father and brothers would kill him again, even in the afterlife. As the execution time arrived, He Zhaojun took the executioner's blade herself. Cheng Shaoshang, horrified, turned away, and at that moment, Ling Buyi appeared, pulling her into an embrace and softly telling her, "Don't be afraid. I'm here."

Episode 21 Recap

Cheng Shaoshang confronted He Zhaojun, trying to persuade her not to force the marriage. Shaoshang admitted that while her relationship with Lou Yao used to be about love, it no longer mattered. She added that she couldn't allow He Zhaojun to have Yao, fearing He Zhaojun would bully him again. He Zhaojun, still deeply grieving for her father and brothers, recounted her father's dying words.

He had slapped her twice and told her that from then on, no one from the He family would protect her, and the fate of the He family and her younger brother would rest on her shoulders. She declared that she "must" survive until her younger brother came of age.

He Zhaojun insisted she was no longer her old self, would not act recklessly, and could not afford to offend anyone, as her life was dedicated to caring for her younger brother. Cheng Shaoshang expressed deep sympathy for He Zhaojun's loss but maintained that Lou Yao had no romantic feelings for her and should not sacrifice his happiness. He Zhaojun retorted emotionally, asking if Shaoshang thought she liked Yao or would be happy.

She cried that if she could trade her own happiness for her family's lives, she wouldn't care for a thousand Lou Yaos. Just then, Ling Buyi arrived, remarking that Lady Ancheng (He Zhaojun) needn't intimidate Lady Cheng, as the Lou and Cheng families had already decided to break off the betrothal. He Zhaojun, taken aback, questioned why Shaoshang still desired Lou Yao when she had General Ling.

Ling Buyi then instructed Cheng Shaoshang, noting her cold sweats and advising her not to stay out in the wind, to get into his carriage, and he would take her home. Turning back to He Zhaojun, Ling Buyi acknowledged the loyalty and courage of her father and brothers, and the public's pity for her and her younger brother.

However, he warned her that her future was long, and whether she chose to make enemies or cultivate goodwill was entirely up to her. In the carriage, Cheng Shaoshang asked Ling Buyi if Feng Yi County was truly as tragic as He Zhaojun described, and if the He family had truly fought to the last person.

Ling Buyi confirmed that Feng Yi County's situation was indeed different from Hua County's because General He had put his five sons and all his trusted followers' lives on the line. General He and his loyal subordinates had tenaciously defended Feng Yi County, then gathered troops to block the rebel forces, refusing to surrender and fighting until he was the last one alive.

This sacrifice had protected Feng Yi County, preventing the horrors seen in Hua County, such as scattered rebels, displaced children, violated women, and countless graves. He added that because of this, Cheng Shaoshang would no longer have to secretly mourn the dead. Ling Buyi clarified that he wasn't trying to persuade her to accept the betrothal annulment, believing that whatever decision she made at this moment would be valid.

Cheng Shaoshang, however, still lamented why she always seemed to be the unlucky one. Later, Ling Buyi dropped Cheng Shaoshang off at her residence, advising her to rest well. Lou Yao was waiting outside and questioned Shaoshang why she was with General Ling when she had left with He Zhaojun. Shaoshang explained that He Zhaojun had taken her to witness Prince Xiao's execution at the Ministry of Justice.

Enraged, Lou Yao wanted to confront He Zhaojun immediately, but Shaoshang stopped him, stating they would discuss it later and she needed to be alone. Although Lou Yao offered to return the next day, Shaoshang requested he not come for a few days. That night, despite a maid urging her to rest, Cheng Shaoshang remained awake, reflecting on everyone's demands for "morality" and "understanding" from her, while no one seemed to consider her feelings.

She remembered He Zhaojun's words about sacrificing her happiness, Ling Buyi's account of General He's sacrifice, and the promise she and Lou Yao had made to never abandon each other. Xiao Yuanyi, seeing Lou Yao steadfastly waiting outside, noted that he was devoted but ultimately not destined to be with her daughter. The next morning, Old Madam Cheng was loudly guarding her betrothal gifts, refusing to let anyone touch them.

Xiao Yuanyi explained that due to the potential annulment of the Lou-Cheng betrothal, the gifts needed to be inventoried for return. Old Madam Cheng complained bitterly about losing face after boasting to her friends about Niaoniao marrying into a prestigious family. Cheng Shi tried to explain that the matter was a court decision, but Old Madam Cheng dismissed it, arguing that high officials wouldn't care about a young lady whose engagement was broken.

Xiao Yuanyi attempted to soothe her, saying it was just a precaution, but Cheng Shaoshang then walked in and announced her decision to go to the Lou residence to break off the betrothal with Lou Yao, startling Old Madam Cheng. At the Lou residence, Cheng Shi formally declared Cheng Shaoshang's decision to annul the betrothal and offered to return the betrothal token.

He warned that if Grand Tutor Lou refused, he would publicly announce that the Cheng family had attempted to break off the engagement, but the Lou family disregarded General He's dying wish. Lou First Madam quickly agreed, denying any refusal on their part. As the tokens were about to be exchanged, Lou Yao vehemently protested, reminding Shaoshang of their promise not to back down as long as he didn't.

He asked if He Zhaojun had forced her, but Shaoshang insisted it was her own decision. Shaoshang explained that while their love was a personal matter, it became insignificant when compared to the needs of the country. Lou Yao, however, expressed his frustration, dismissing talk of "country" and "general principles" as attempts to fool him. He lamented that he was the only one suffering sacrifices and questioned why Shaoshang was also pressuring him.

Cheng Shaoshang then took Lou Yao outside for a private conversation. Despite his initial refusal to annul the betrothal, Shaoshang reminded him of his deep respect for General He, who had been like a father and teacher to him, and how this gratitude, along with his friendship with Fifth Young Master He, had led him to tolerate He Zhaojun over the years.

She then vividly described the brutal deaths of Fifth Young Master He and his brothers, riddled with arrows and without complete bodies. Shaoshang recalled Lou Yao’s oath in Hua County to be a great man who protects the people. She emphasized that General He and his five sons had charged to the front lines, saving the people of Feng Yi County from disaster. In light of such sacrifice, their personal romantic feelings were insignificant.

Cheng Shaoshang apologized for the pain she was causing him, acknowledging that it was easy to persuade but he was the one who had to marry He Zhaojun. She said if she could marry He Zhaojun in his place, she would. Lou Yao stopped her, asserting she had not wronged him. He realized the hypocrisy of proclaiming himself a great man protecting the people, yet being unwilling to endure even a small grievance.

Shaoshang reassured him, telling him this was a temporary hardship, not a lifelong one, and that he was capable of handling it. She advised him that after marrying He Zhaojun, he would be not only her husband but also her brother and support. He should love and guide her, but also correct her if she erred, and not allow her to bully him as she had in the past.

Lou Yao vowed to take He Zhaojun to General He's memorial tablet for self-reflection if she misbehaved again. Returning to the main hall, Lou Yao announced his agreement to annul his betrothal to Cheng Shaoshang. He explained that his decision to marry He Zhaojun was an act of righteousness to honor General He’s dying wish, an act even His Majesty would commend.

He leveraged this, declaring that the He family's private soldiers would be at the Second Chamber's disposal for over a decade, warning anyone against bullying them. Grand Tutor Lou eventually ordered the marriage contract to be annulled. Lou Yao then addressed Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi, asking them to treat him as their own nephew in the future. Cheng Shaoshang offered advice to Lou Yao, urging him to treat He Zhaojun well, as she was pitiful beneath her fierce exterior.

Finally, Lou Yao asked Cheng Shaoshang to address him as "brother." She agreed, wishing him a smooth future and a soaring career as an official. He, in turn, wished Shaoshang would meet a good husband, live a life of unconditional love, and grow old with him. Elsewhere, Lady Ruyang found the Lou family's convoluted marriage affairs—breaking an engagement with the He family, then engaging with the Cheng family, then breaking that, and now re-marrying the He family—utterly laughable.

Princess Yuchang, however, expressed pity for Cheng Shaoshang, fearing her broken engagement would make it difficult to find a good match in the future. Lady Ruyang dismissed Cheng Shaoshang, hoping Princess Yuchang would marry Ling Buyi, who she believed was suitable for her. Madam Chunyu flattered Lady Ruyang, disparaging Cheng Shaoshang as uncultured and comparing her unfavorably to Princess Yuchang.

Lady Ruyang urged Madam Chunyu to encourage Marquis Chengyang to ensure Ling Buyi married and had children, criticizing the He family for their military achievements not preventing them from having to shamelessly remarry into the Lou family. Ling Buyi, overhearing this, intervened, stating that if everyone prioritized cowardice, the Xiao rebel would have already wiped out the capital, and these women wouldn't be alive to criticize others' marriages.

His father, Marquis Chengyang, tried to silence Ling Buyi, reminding him to be respectful to Lady Ruyang. The Marquis then accused Ling Buyi of humiliating his stepmother, Madam Chunyu. Ling Buyi ignored them, instead warning Lady Ruyang. He stated that His Majesty was fair and sternly punished those who erred. He clarified that His Majesty wished for the marriage alliance between the Lou and He families, a matter already decided.

Anyone who criticized it would be committing a crime against the realm and disrespecting His Majesty, implying Lady Ruyang would not want to sacrifice her lifelong glory for such a crime. Marquis Chengyang tried to get Ling Buyi to dine with them, but Ling Buyi refused, asking them to convey to the Marquis to stop pestering His Majesty with every issue and promising to visit them regularly. He then declared that he would personally be responsible for Cheng Shaoshang's marriage.

Back at the Cheng residence, Old Madam Cheng continued to lament the annulled betrothal, accusing Cheng Shi of foolishly prioritizing a "lousy reputation" over a prosperous match. Cheng Shi tried to explain the benefits to both families, but Old Madam Cheng was fixated on her granddaughter’s future marriage prospects being ruined and angrily accused the Emperor of picking on their family. A servant then announced an imperial decree.

Old Madam Cheng panicked, thinking she was being arrested for slandering the Emperor. The envoy announced that His Majesty had decreed Cheng Shi, Xiao Yuanyi, and their children were permitted to attend the sacrificial ceremony at Mount Tugao. Xiao Yuanyi was delighted, seeing it as a perfect opportunity for Niaoniao to clear her mind, but Old Madam Cheng was furious at being explicitly excluded from the invitation.

Several days later, at the Mount Tugao sacrificial ceremony, Cheng Shaoshang felt no enthusiasm, viewing it more as a large spring outing, and mostly stayed in her tent. Wan Qiqi, seeing her dejection, convinced her to attend a mounted archery competition hosted by Young Marquis Ban. Amidst the many noblewomen and princesses, Wan Qiqi introduced them, then shared the tragic story of Young Marquis Ban's family, who were wiped out in war, leaving him as the sole, pampered descendant.

Cheng Shaoshang noted the similarity to He Zhaojun's fate, stirring painful memories. As Lou Yao and He Zhaojun then appeared, Cheng Shaoshang struggled to maintain her composure, prompting Wan Qiqi to quickly redirect her attention to the competition. Wan Qiqi pointed out the extravagant Fifth Princess, the most favored youngest daughter of the Emperor and Empress, warning Shaoshang to avoid her due to her closeness with Wang Ling.

She then identified the greedy Third Princess, Consort Yue's daughter, raised by her uncle Marquis Yue, and commented on her "vulgar merchant" manners. During the competition, the Crown Princess chided the Fifth Princess for gambling on a sacred day, but the Fifth Princess dismissed it as mere entertainment, also commenting on the Crown Princess's modest means.

Fifth Princess then teased the Third Princess about recruiting gentlemen as aides, prompting the Third Princess to warn her not to offend her cousin and to focus on managing her existing aides. Wan Qiqi then remarked that the Second Princess was the most reliable among the princesses, recalling how she and the Empress had stopped two other princesses from fighting over their standing order at the ceremony.

Lastly, Wan Qiqi pointed out the Crown Princess, who wore little jewelry and reportedly came from a poor, rural background before marrying the Crown Prince. After a companion cautioned Wan Qiqi about her gossiping, Wan Qiqi quickly shifted the focus back to the competition, announcing Mr. Chen's turn, whose archery was considered excellent, a claim Wan Qiqi scoffed at, boasting she could do better with her eyes closed.

Episode 22 Recap

Cheng Shaogong was trying to divine Cheng Shaoshang's marriage on the back hill, initially finding an omen of good fortune in love, suggesting Shaoshang would find a better match after her broken engagement with Lou Yao. However, his divination was interrupted when Young Marquis Ban, who was lost, stumbled upon him, immediately changing the auspicious omen into an "ill love lot."

Annoyed, Shaogong felt it was an ill-fated encounter, but he reluctantly agreed to lead the Young Marquis back to the hunting grounds. On their way, Young Marquis Ban saw Cheng Yang alone and was instantly smitten. Meanwhile, Wang Ling and Lou Li intentionally sought out Cheng Shaoshang to cause trouble. Wan Qiqi, unable to bear their taunts, defended Shaoshang, leading to a heated argument and a challenge for a mounted archery competition between Qiqi and Wang Ling.

After Wan Qiqi departed, Yuan Shen approached Cheng Shaoshang, remarking on her unusually subdued demeanor and implying that his previous lesson on the "Changmen Fu," advocating a life without love for true freedom, had been ineffective. Shaoshang retorted by calling the renowned scholar a "bigmouth" and warned him to be quiet.

She then fled, skillfully luring a group of admiring ladies towards Yuan Shen, leaving him swarmed and unable to follow her, effectively creating her own "ill love lot" for him. Cheng Shaoshang, riding her horse to the mountain peak, discovered an ancient pagoda. Intrigued by its intricate architecture, she climbed it.

From the top, looking out at the misty mountains, she had a moment of clarity, realizing that losing a fiancé was not the end of the world, and there were still many beautiful things in life. As she ascended further, she overheard a clandestine meeting where men discussed a plot to depose the Crown Prince, citing the Emperor's growing leniency towards the Lou family and the Crown Prince's incompetence. Frightened, Shaoshang tried to retreat but dropped her jade pendant.

Fortunately, Ling Buyi appeared just in time, catching her as she fell from the tower. He held her tightly, suspending them outside the tower's edge until the conspirators departed. Shaoshang was still reeling from the narrow escape and noticed that Ling Buyi had aggravated an old injury. He, however, sternly warned her to feign ignorance about everything she had overheard, emphasizing that she "heard nothing" and "never passed by this area before" to avoid dire consequences.

He insisted on escorting her back, stating it was unsafe for her to return alone. Near her hunting cart, Ling Buyi returned her jade pendant, which had her nickname "Niaoniao" engraved on it. Noting that half of the "Niaoniao" inscription was on a missing piece of the pendant, he kept the remaining half, subtly implying that holding onto it would protect her from being identified by the conspirators.

He also pressed the urgency of their return to camp before a headcount could expose her absence. Meanwhile, at the archery competition, Wan Qiqi's superior skills quickly overshadowed Wang Ling's. Furious at her impending defeat, Wang Ling resorted to foul play, deliberately startling Wan Qiqi's horse. The frightened animal bolted towards the mountains. Cheng Song immediately gave chase. After several unsuccessful attempts to rescue her, he decided to tackle her off the horse, injuring his leg in the process.

Wan Qiqi was deeply concerned and embarrassed, especially when she saw the injury was to his thigh. She was reminded of her casual earlier remark about "supporting him for life," which now felt incredibly awkward. The royal hunt quickly devolved into chaos, with young nobles behaving wildly, girls openly pursuing Yuan Shen, and even some secret trysts discovered. Emperor Wen was incensed, lamenting that his sacred prayer ceremony for the people had been desecrated by such "ridiculous" and "disgraceful" behavior.

Empress Xuan attempted to take responsibility, while Consort Yue playfully reminded him of his own youthful indiscretions, which only angered him further. He vowed severe punishment for all. However, an attendant then reported that Ling Buyi had returned, having risked his life to save Cheng Shaoshang from falling off a cliff, causing his old war injury to flare up. Hearing that Shaoshang was distraught and offered to "repay him with her life," Emperor Wen's mood shifted dramatically.

He exclaimed that Ling Buyi now resembled his younger self and declared that no one would be punished. Before the Emperor arrived, Ling Buyi quickly coached a shaken Cheng Shaoshang on what to say, instructing her to admit she almost fell and he saved her, exacerbating his old wound, and that she felt terrible. He also privately chided her for her hasty departure after he was injured for her.

Ling Buyi and Cheng Shi gestured for Cheng Shaoshang to greet Emperor Wen. Shaoshang's curt and informal greeting surprised the Emperor, prompting Cheng Shi to apologize for her lack of etiquette. Emperor Wen, focused on Ling Buyi's injury, questioned Shaoshang about the incident. However, Ling Buyi quickly interjected, explaining that he merely "happened to pass by" and rescued her from falling, causing his old shoulder wound to reopen.

When the Emperor tried to get more details from Shaoshang, Ling Buyi once again spoke for her, demonstrating his protectiveness. Emperor Wen then sternly reminded Cheng Shi that Ling Buyi, a pillar of the nation, had saved his daughter and family, and the Cheng family must always remember and repay this profound kindness. After dismissing Cheng Shi and Shaoshang, Emperor Wen privately pressed Ling Buyi for the true story, but Ling Buyi maintained his "coincidence" narrative.

The Emperor, however, suspected Ling Buyi's true intentions, especially when Ling Buyi declined an imperial physician and insisted on recovering at his own residence, which the Emperor inferred was to facilitate Shaoshang's visits. Later, Emperor Wen confided in Consort Yue, expressing his conflicted feelings: he was glad Ling Buyi was finally interested in someone, but he found Shaoshang "ordinary" and "lacking courtesy," deeming her unworthy of his exceptional foster son.

Consort Yue, exasperated, pointed out the Emperor's past inconsistencies regarding Ling Buyi's relationships, likening his bitter complaints to an unripe fruit. When he sought similar counsel from Empress Xuan, her agreeable responses left him feeling bored. Finally, he asked his attendant, Cao Cheng, if Shaoshang was suitable for Ling Buyi. Cao Cheng wisely replied that only "God" could decide, but even then, the Emperor worried, "what if God is blind?" After the hunt concluded, the Cheng family returned home.

Cheng Shaoshang was visibly distracted in her studies, making numerous errors in her writing. Her tutor, Yuan Shen, singled her out, commenting on her recent tumultuous events, including her broken engagement and Ling Buyi's injury. He then lectured her, warning her against using marriage as a means to escape familial constraints and accusing her of deliberately seeking Ling Buyi's attention. Shaoshang became infuriated, denying his accusations and questioning why he always perceived her in such a negative light.

Yuan Shen, however, reiterated his "friendly reminder" for her to stay away from Ling Buyi, claiming he merely wished to protect her from life's harsh realities due to her "ignorance." At home, Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi discussed the day's events. Cheng Shi noted Ling Buyi's repeated rescues of Shaoshang, prompting Xiao Yuanyi to suggest Ling Buyi might harbor deeper feelings for their daughter, though Shaoshang would never admit it.

Both worried about the implications, especially after Emperor Wen's clear intent to foster a connection between Ling Buyi and Shaoshang. Cheng Shi proposed Xiao Yuanyi accompany Shaoshang to Ling Buyi's residence to express their gratitude, but Xiao Yuanyi insisted that as the head of the household, Cheng Shi should be the one to go. Cheng Yang then relayed their father's instruction to Shaoshang to visit Ling Buyi.

Shaoshang used this parental directive as justification to defy Yuan Shen, declaring that following her father's wishes was paramount. Yuan Shen, however, warned her, "You forgot the pain now that your wounds had healed. I just hope that you won't regret it in the future."

Episode 23 Recap

Cheng Shaoshang and her father, Cheng Shi, arrived at Ling Buyi's residence for a visit. Shaoshang immediately noticed the stern guards and the cold, austere atmosphere of the mansion, remarking that it felt more like a military barrack than a noble's home, lacking any female servants. Ling Buyi, injured but present, affirmed that he only had male attendants, implying Shaoshang was the exception.

Cheng Shi offered his gratitude to Ling Buyi for saving Shaoshang's life, but Shaoshang quickly urged her father to leave, sensing Ling Buyi's palpable displeasure with them, particularly her father. Ling Buyi's sharp comment about not having saved her if he prioritized his own health further fueled their discomfort. As they made their exit, Cheng Shi confided in his daughter that Ling Buyi had seemed irritable and hostile, making him feel as if Ling Buyi wanted to "swallow him alive."

Shaoshang agreed, noting Ling Buyi's foul mood from the moment he saw her father. Cheng Shi attributed this to Ling Buyi's jealousy of his own martial prowess. Their departure was halted by Liangqiu Qi, who claimed Ling Buyi had found half of Shaoshang's jade pendant and needed her help to locate the other missing half. Liangqiu Qi then engaged Cheng Shi in a discussion about military affairs, leaving Shaoshang to return to Ling Buyi alone.

Shaoshang confronted Ling Buyi, criticizing his use of the jade pendant as a pretext, calling it "not the way of a gentleman." Ling Buyi expressed disappointment that she was reluctant to visit him, especially since his old wound had relapsed in saving her. When Shaoshang only asked about his pain, he lamented that she didn't inquire if his injury affected his archery or horse riding.

He recalled that only she had asked if he was in pain back in Hua County, suggesting she was truly "special." Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of the Crown Prince, Princess Yuchang, Yuan Shen, and Wang Jin. Shaoshang, aware of Princess Yuchang's affections for Ling Buyi, tried to excuse herself, but the Crown Prince entered, expressing concern for Ling Buyi's injuries, informed by Yuan Shen.

Wang Jin immediately directed her disdain at Shaoshang, recognizing her as the one whose engagement to the Lou family was broken. She accused Shaoshang of having ulterior motives for visiting, suggesting she was using gratitude as an excuse to "shamelessly approach and cling to someone," even implying Shaoshang should learn from Princess Yuchang's past dramatic attempts to gain attention, such as causing a bridge to collapse. Shaoshang fiercely defended herself, condemning Wang Jin's "mind full of immorality."

When Wang Jin accused her of secretly meeting another man, Yuan Shen intervened, clarifying that he was the man Wang Jin's maid had seen with Shaoshang, as he was delivering a message from his master. Shaoshang then swore a potent oath that she would be struck by a carriage and die if there was any impropriety between her and Yuan Shen.

Yuan Shen condemned Wang Jin's "indecent" accusations and promised to seek an explanation from her father, the Cavalry General, for defaming his family. Ling Buyi, angered by Wang Jin's insults towards his guest in his own home, suggested the Crown Prince have a physician examine Wang Jin for "blindness," as she would "go blind" if untreated, before ordering the guards to escort the guests out. The Crown Prince attempted to mediate, but Princess Yuchang, heartbroken, had already left.

Shortly after, the Third Prince arrived, encountering the flustered Crown Prince chasing after Princess Yuchang. The Third Prince, learning that Ling Buyi was resting, left some high-quality medicinal herbs for his recovery. Meanwhile, Han Wu, a long-lost herald from the Huo family army, finally reappeared after fifteen years. Ling Buyi pressed him on his prolonged absence and the crime of desertion.

Han Wu explained that after Gu City fell and he miraculously survived, he attempted to gather former comrades to report the truth to the Emperor. However, his efforts were met with constant ambushes, forcing him into hiding until Liangqiu Qi recently discovered him. Ling Buyi asked about his whereabouts during the fall of Gu City. Han Wu revealed he had been dispatched by General Huo with another soldier to seek reinforcements from the Yue Clan troops and Lord Qian'an's army.

But the reinforcements were delayed, and Gu City was breached before they arrived. Han Wu recounted the official story of a poisonous miasma preventing the reinforcements for three days, but he found it suspicious. He noted that a team of soldiers sent to investigate the miasma died, yet their warhorses later reappeared unharmed in the barracks. He questioned how humans could die from the poison while animals survived.

Furthermore, he revealed that the military physicians who examined the bodies after the miasma cleared had all mysteriously disappeared. Han Wu sought Ling Buyi's permission to investigate these physicians for clues, and Ling Buyi granted it. Elsewhere, Emperor Wen and Empress Xuan discussed Ling Buyi's future. The Emperor observed the growing gossip surrounding Ling Buyi and Shaoshang, which had been spread by Wang Jin.

He saw this as an opportunity to "take advantage of the situation to marry them," hoping to finally resolve Ling Buyi's long-delayed marriage. Empress Xuan then raised the issue of Fifth Princess, who adamantly refused her arranged marriage, expressing a desire for freedom similar to Ling Buyi. The Emperor dismissed this, explaining that a young man could pursue a career before marriage, but a young woman who postponed marriage would face "unpleasant rumors" and "slanderous words."

He cited Shaoshang's own experience, where even her honorable decision to break an engagement led to gossip. He emphasized that the arranged marriage for Fifth Princess was ultimately for her own good and crucial for strengthening the imperial family's alliances with the Yue and Xuan clans. Empress Xuan advised a gentler approach, noting Fifth Princess's stubbornness, contrasting her with Ling Buyi, whom the Emperor treated with greater patience due to his lingering guilt over General Huo's sacrifice.

The Emperor, however, insisted on actively "making an effort to bring them together," given Ling Buyi's newfound interest in a lady. He then decided to summon Lady Cheng to the palace. Cheng Shaoshang ate breakfast in the carriage on her way to the palace. Her mother, Xiao Yuanyi, pressed her about any mishaps during her visit to Ling Buyi, recalling his evident displeasure. Shaoshang shrugged off the worries, assuring her father had been present for most of it.

Xiao Yuanyi then sternly instructed Shaoshang on proper palace etiquette: precise bows, well-wishes for the Emperor and Empress, and introducing herself by her father's title. Shaoshang, however, felt it was too late to learn everything. As she peered out at the imposing palace gates, Xiao Yuanyi warned her of the dire consequences of any unruly behavior within the palace walls, emphasizing that it could "implicate the Cheng Family and put everyone's life in danger."

Upon reaching the palace gate, an imperial edict allowed the Cheng family's female members to ride their carriages directly to Xuanming Hall, acknowledging that ladies walked slowly. Shaoshang was visibly thrilled by this special privilege. Inside Xuanming Hall, Shaoshang, along with her parents, performed the formal greetings to the Emperor and Empress. Unconventionally, Shaoshang openly admired the "huge lamp" and the "exquisitely built house," noting it was her first time seeing such a magnificent structure.

The Emperor found her honest remarks endearing. He praised Shaoshang for her family's decision to break her engagement for the sake of General He's family. Shaoshang clarified that it wasn't a "compromise" but an act of deep respect for General He's dying wish and his family's virtue. When asked her name and age, Shaoshang stated she was Cheng Shaoshang, named after a Guqin string, and had passed "the age of 15 for months now."

The Emperor asked if she was sad about the broken engagement. Shaoshang admitted to feeling sad but asserted its necessity, quoting Laozi: "Heaven and earth are merciless. They treat everything as disposable beings." She explained that because nature can be indifferent, humans must be benevolent and compassionate; to seek only self-interest without regard for others' suffering was "the behavior of an animal."

The Emperor tested her knowledge of the quote, and Shaoshang correctly attributed it to Laozi, outlining her reasoning by eliminating other philosophers whose teachings diverged. She candidly admitted her unfamiliarity with Zhuangzi. The Emperor, while impressed by her deduction, corrected her interpretation of the quote, explaining it meant "heaven and earth treat everything equally; let nature take its course."

He then praised Cheng Shi for "teaching his daughter well," but Xiao Yuanyi quickly interjected, explaining that Cheng Shi had been away at war for over ten years, and they both "failed to teach her well." The Emperor dismissed her modesty, calling Shaoshang "smart" and confident she would be well-taught with a little effort. Shaoshang then, unprompted, complimented the Empress, calling her "very beautiful." Despite Xiao Yuanyi's immediate scolding, the Empress found Shaoshang "honest" and "interesting."

The Emperor mischievously asked Shaoshang who was more beautiful, her mother or the Empress, to which Shaoshang quickly declared "Her Majesty." Xiao Yuanyi apologized for her daughter's lack of manners, but the Empress gracefully waived it off. The Emperor then invited the entire Cheng family to lunch. Shaoshang, despite having eaten earlier, enthusiastically accepted, admitting she was still hungry. An attendant then announced the arrival of General Wan.

The Emperor invited Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi to join him at Chongde Hall, while Shaoshang was directed to Changqiu Palace's side hall for rest before a "family feast." In Changqiu Palace's side hall, Shaoshang observed the surprisingly "frugal" elm furniture and marveled at the architectural ingenuity of the grand hall. Her quiet observations were interrupted by the forceful entry of Fifth Princess, who stormed in to complain to Empress Xuan.

Fifth Princess accused the guards of deliberately trying to stop her, claiming her parents had "important matters." Empress Xuan reprimanded her for her boisterous and disrespectful behavior in the palace. Fifth Princess, however, railed against her father's partiality, claiming she, a princess, had less freedom than ordinary girls. She accused the Emperor of favoring Consort Yue and her children, asserting that Consort Yue was the "real empress," which was why Empress Xuan "frowns every day."

Empress Xuan angrily rebuked Fifth Princess for spreading "incitement words," questioning the purpose of her "aides," reminding her that as a woman, she didn't "need to manage state affairs" or "need aides." She warned Fifth Princess about her inappropriate closeness with men, especially given her impending marriage into the Yue Clan. Fifth Princess defiantly refused the marriage, disparaging Consort Yue's nephew as "not talented in anything," a "dissolute person," and worse than Third Princess's husband.

She viewed the marriage as a deliberate insult to Empress Xuan. Empress Xuan countered by reminding her that Third Princess had honorably married into the Xuan Clan despite her past affections for Ling Buyi, simply because it was the Emperor's command. She challenged Fifth Princess to do the same. Fifth Princess retorted that Ling Buyi "is not interested in" Third Princess, implying Third Princess had no choice but to settle.

She feared being mocked if she married the "dissolute man" from the Yue Clan. Meanwhile, in another part of the palace, Third Princess was gossiping with Consort Yue, gleefully recounting Fifth Princess's distraught entry into Changqiu Palace, confirming the Emperor's resolve to marry her to Consort Yue's nephew. Third Princess disparaged Fifth Princess's complaints and insolent behavior. Consort Yue conceded that her nephew was "dissolute" and Fifth Princess's reluctance was understandable.

However, Third Princess insisted that Fifth Princess should endure the marriage as she had, marrying into the Xuan Clan despite having liked Ling Buyi, who she claimed was not interested in her. Third Princess then denigrated Ling Buyi, claiming countless women would readily marry him.

Consort Yue defended Third Princess's husband from the Xuan Clan, praising his "meritorious service," "good reputation," and "upright" character, sharply contrasting him with her own dissolute nephew who frequented "brothels," and asking Third Princess if she would willingly trade husbands. Third Princess then criticized Fifth Princess's numerous "aides," accusing them of engaging in "funny business" under the guise of "discussing state affairs," and suggested Fifth Princess merely "looks down on the Yue Clan."

Consort Yue sternly cut her off, accusing Third Princess's uncle of "sowing discord" about the "grudge between Changqiu Palace and the Yue Clan." She declared her sole desire was for a "quiet life" and warned them to "put away your funny business and don't cause me any trouble," or she "will never speak for you." Third Princess, in turn, refused to attend the "boring feasts." Consort Yue retorted that she decided who "gets to steal the show."

Third Princess then escalated her defiance, directly accusing the Emperor of favoring Ling Buyi above his own children, letting him remain unmarried, and even suggesting Ling Buyi might be the Emperor's "son who was stranded out there." Consort Yue vehemently chastised her for insulting the Emperor, explaining Ling Buyi's status as General Huo's last descendant and the Emperor's profound guilt over the Huo family's sacrifice.

Unmoved, Third Princess dismissively called Huo Chong "only Ling Zisheng's uncle," and the deaths "only from the maternal side." She complained that Ling Buyi "shamelessly stayed" in the palace, "stealing my parents." Consort Yue issued a final warning: stop the "nonsense" or face punishment. Back in Changqiu Palace, the enraged Fifth Princess spotted Shaoshang. Mistaking her for a "lowly servant," she accused Shaoshang of "eavesdropping" and ordered her to be "caned."

Shaoshang boldly retorted that Fifth Princess's "loud" voice made it impossible not to hear. Enraged, Fifth Princess insisted on punishment. Luo Jitong, daughter of the Changshui Colonel and Fifth Princess's companion, intervened, explaining that Shaoshang was Lady Cheng of Marquis Quling's Residence, visiting the palace for the first time and unfamiliar with court rules.

She highlighted Cheng Shi's "great achievements" in Gu City and his title of Marquis Quling, reminding Fifth Princess of the Emperor's policy to be kind to the families of meritorious heroes. Fifth Princess, however, dismissed Shaoshang as a "daughter of a military family," calling her "coarse and ill-mannered" and "presumptuous." She threatened to report Shaoshang and her parents to the Emperor, strip them of their military achievements, and banish their entire family from the capital.

An attendant quickly interjected, reminding Fifth Princess that delaying Shaoshang's attendance at the family feast might incur the Emperor's displeasure. Unwilling to provoke her father further, Fifth Princess relented but issued a chilling warning: Shaoshang was lucky this time, but she should "watch herself at the feast" and ensure no "missteps," or the entire Cheng clan would pay.

Episode 24 Recap

Fifth Princess, still fuming from their previous encounter but constrained by the upcoming imperial banquet, sternly warned Cheng Shaoshang that she was fortunate the banquet prevented immediate retribution. She threatened that any misstep during the event would require the entire Cheng Family to apologize. Luo Jitong then escorted Cheng Shaoshang to the front hall where the other female guests were gathering. Cheng Shaoshang thanked Luo Jitong for her intervention, remarking on the intimidating anger of nobles.

Luo Jitong introduced herself; her father is Colonel Changshui Luo Zhu, and she serves as a reading partner to the Fifth Princess. She invited Cheng Shaoshang to address her as Jitong. Cheng Shaoshang questioned the Fifth Princess’s arrogant demeanor, contrasting it with the kind Emperor and Empress. Luo Jitong explained that as the youngest princess, born into peaceful times and a life of luxury, she had naturally become spoiled.

She cautioned Cheng Shaoshang about strict palace rules and the severe consequences of gossiping about nobles, which could bring calamity upon their families. Cheng Shaoshang acknowledged the warning, adding that she was relieved not to be a frequent visitor to the palace. Luo Jitong then directed Cheng Shaoshang to a suitable seat. The Cheng family's relatively low social standing was evident as Cheng Shaoshang endured disdain and open mockery from other guests.

Wang Ling, a persistent antagonist, loudly proclaimed that only those of humble status, like Cheng Shaoshang, belonged in the furthest seats at an imperial banquet. Cheng Shaoshang retorted, questioning Wang Ling's place if she herself were absent. Meanwhile, the Third and Fifth Princesses began to quarrel about their respective marital affairs. The Third Princess insinuated that the Fifth Princess had left Prince Consort Xuan at home due to his ongoing disputes or perhaps because of Ling Buyi’s presence.

The Fifth Princess fired back, suggesting the Third Princess concern herself less with others’ marriages and more with managing her own house's reputation by dismissing her "toyboys" before the capital found out. Another Princess interjected, urging them to cease their bickering before Emperor Wen and Empress Xuan arrived. Spotting Cheng Shaoshang discreetly eating a biscuit, the Fifth Princess called her out, asking if she was the one who had argued with her earlier.

She chastised Cheng Shaoshang for her lack of manners, eating before the Emperor and Empress. Wang Ling quickly jumped in, labeling Cheng Shaoshang an uneducated "wild child" from the countryside, which, she claimed, explained her crude behavior. A different noble lady attempted to excuse Cheng Shaoshang, citing her unfamiliarity with palace rules and hunger. Wang Ling, however, insisted that such impoliteness stemmed from a fundamental lack of parental guidance.

Ignoring Luo Jitong's earlier warning, Cheng Shaoshang calmly corrected the Fifth Princess, stating that what she was eating was not a biscuit but a "millet naan," a common rural food that could sustain a person for hours. She pointedly remarked on the Fifth Princess's ignorance despite the frugal habits of the Emperor and Empress, attributing it to a sheltered life within the palace. Rendered speechless, the Fifth Princess feigned illness and hastily retreated.

In her absence, Wang Ling, seeking revenge, challenged Cheng Shaoshang to a physical confrontation, then deliberately kicked off Cheng Shaoshang's shoe. As other noblewomen approached, seemingly to join in the humiliation, Cheng Shaoshang anxiously asked their intentions. Just then, Ling Buyi appeared. Wang Ling, seeing him, sneered that Cheng Shaoshang’s "savior" had arrived.

Ling Buyi swiftly moved to Cheng Shaoshang's side, gently pressing her back into her seat before kneeling to put her shoe back on, a gesture that silenced the hall. The Fifth Princess returned, demanding to know Ling Buyi’s meaning. Ling Buyi, rather than directly addressing the bullying, offered veiled congratulations: first to the Fifth Princess on her impending marriage to the "dissolute" Prince Consort Yue, whom he dryly noted was a "rare kind" and a perfect match.

He then offered belated congratulations to the Third Princess, claiming his absence in battle prevented him from congratulating her earlier on her marriage to the heir of Marquis Xuan. He then subtly urged Cheng Shaoshang to leave, suggesting that further defiance would only invite more palace ridicule. Meanwhile, a servant gossiped to Luo Jitong about Cheng Shaoshang's apparent intimacy with Ling Buyi. Luo Jitong sternly reminded the servant to mind her own business.

When the servant then mentioned that the Empress had once considered marrying Luo Jitong to Ling Buyi, Luo Jitong angrily dismissed it as baseless rumor, threatening punishment if the topic was raised again, stating the Empress had never taken the idea seriously. Ling Buyi insisted that Cheng Shaoshang sit beside him, dismissing her concerns about breaking etiquette and assuring her it was acceptable. This prompted the Princes to begin teasing.

The Third Prince remarked on the palace's declining adherence to rules, questioning how a household without order could govern a nation. The Fifth Prince, attempting flirtation, recalled Cheng Shaoshang as the "Fourth Lady Cheng" who had broken her engagement with Lou Yao, praising her beauty. He even offered to take her as a concubine, suggesting that as family, her seating would then be acceptable.

Another Prince teased the Fifth Prince for his overly sentimental nature, which often incurred the Emperor's displeasure. Ling Buyi then interrupted, stating that Cheng Shaoshang was already engaged. When the Fifth Prince expressed disbelief, citing her broken engagement, Ling Buyi calmly declared, "So now I can marry her." Alarm spread across Cheng Shaoshang's face as she urged Ling Buyi not to impulsively ruin his life for her.

The Third Prince mocked Ling Buyi, suggesting he had lost his domineering edge from spending too much time with the Crown Prince, now even a mere lady dared to defy him. At that moment, Emperor Wen and Empress Xuan entered with Cheng Shi, Xiao Yuanyi, and Wan Songbai. Emperor Wen cheerfully noted the lively atmosphere, emphasizing the informal nature of a family banquet. Empress Xuan observed Cheng Shaoshang sitting with Ling Buyi.

Ling Buyi then formally requested Emperor Wen to act in place of his elder and propose marriage to Cheng Shaoshang. Emperor Wen was utterly delighted, exclaiming his approval and noting his surprise that the matter had progressed so quickly. He called Cheng Shi forward, announcing his intention to propose on Ling Buyi's behalf, as he had raised Ling Buyi like his own son. Wan Songbai eagerly urged Cheng Shi to accept.

However, Xiao Yuanyi, falling to her knees, vehemently objected, pleading with the Emperor to retract his order. When Emperor Wen asked if she was dissatisfied with Ling Buyi, Xiao Yuanyi quickly clarified that it was her daughter, Cheng Shaoshang, who was unworthy. She publicly disparaged Cheng Shaoshang, detailing her perceived flaws: lack of education, unruly behavior, poor academic and martial skills, a tendency to speak out of turn, and disrespect for elders.

She insisted that if Cheng Shaoshang were not her daughter, she would never allow such a bride into the Cheng family, adding that while Ling Buyi was an excellent match, Cheng Shaoshang's stubborn character would surely bring disaster upon them all. Emperor Wen turned to Cheng Shi, questioning the truth of his wife's accusations. Cheng Shi took responsibility, explaining that he and his wife had neglected Cheng Shaoshang's upbringing while away at war.

Xiao Yuanyi, however, interrupted, stressing that she had only wanted to protect her daughter from embarrassment, but Cheng Shaoshang was simply "unqualified." She portrayed Cheng Shaoshang as cunning, reckless, and troublesome, arguing that Ling Buyi, having known her for a short time, was unaware of her true nature. Emperor Wen then asked Cheng Shaoshang if she indeed believed herself to be as unworthy as her mother described.

Cheng Shaoshang confirmed her mother's assessment, admitting to being rude, troublesome, inconsiderate, and disobedient. She then directly challenged Ling Buyi, asking if he still wished to marry her, knowing her stubborn nature and that any future wife he chose would be "a thousand times better." Ling Buyi responded with an unwavering "Of course." He then turned to Cheng Shaoshang, expressing his surprise at her self-perception and stating that in his eyes, "Cheng Shaoshang is the best lady in the capital."

He addressed Xiao Yuanyi directly, observing that while popular wisdom favored a gentle wife, Xiao Yuanyi herself was a fierce warrior yet shared a loving bond with General Cheng, demonstrating that every couple is unique. He declared that while Cheng Shaoshang might not be everyone's ideal "obedient lady," to him, she was the absolute best woman in the world, pure, decisive, daring to love and hate, and the only one truly capable of standing by his side.

Ling Buyi concluded by vowing to marry no one else in his lifetime. Emperor Wen, delighted by Ling Buyi's passionate declaration, immediately finalized the engagement, reminding Cheng Shaoshang that her agreement was binding and warning that he would reprimand anyone who dared to renege. Ling Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang expressed their gratitude, followed reluctantly by Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi. Emperor Wen then dismissed everyone to rise, only to be informed that Princess Yuchang had fainted upon hearing the news.

Emperor Wen dismissed the incident as typical melodrama from young women who had "drunk too much" before the banquet, jokingly suggesting she be sent to Changqiu Palace to learn manners. He then invited everyone to drink heartily. The Crown Prince and other Princes enthusiastically congratulated Ling Buyi, while the Fifth Princess and Wang Ling seethed with furious, murderous looks. The other noble ladies who had harbored admiration for Ling Buyi displayed expressions of deep sorrow and disappointment.

After the imperial banquet, a heavy silence settled over the Cheng family as they returned home. Upon entering the main hall, Xiao Yuanyi immediately ordered Cheng Shaoshang to kneel. Cheng Shi tried to intervene, suggesting Cheng Shaoshang was still overwhelmed by the day's events, but Xiao Yuanyi angrily retorted that her daughter had acted "mightily" by openly agreeing to the marriage without fear of imperial authority.

Cheng Shaoshang shot back, reminding her mother that while she taught many rules, "defying an imperial order" was not among them. Cheng Shi then reminded Cheng Shaoshang of her previous assurances that she had no private feelings for Ling Buyi, emphasizing that he and Xiao Yuanyi had risked the Emperor’s displeasure to break her engagement with Lou Yao, questioning why she had changed her mind.

Cheng Shaoshang, frustrated, asked if her mother was dissatisfied with her choice of husband or simply with her as a daughter, noting her mother's consistent disapproval regardless of her suitor. Cheng Shi intervened again, trying to explain that Xiao Yuanyi’s concerns stemmed from the dangerous complexities of Marquis Chengyang’s residence, which was far more perilous than the Lou family.

He alluded to Ling Buyi’s mother, Huo Junhua, once celebrated but now in a tragic state, urging Cheng Shaoshang not to get entangled. Cheng Shaoshang pressed for details about Ling Buyi’s parents, as she had never heard the full story. Xiao Yuanyi angrily snapped that Cheng Shaoshang was unfit for marriage if she ignored such crucial family complexities. Cheng Shaoshang dismissively stated she was marrying Ling Buyi, not his parents, and had no interest in the Marquis’s family affairs.

Cheng Shi then began to recount the tragic history: General Huo Chong’s heroic sacrifice during the Emperor’s crisis, holding off a vast enemy army, which led to the massacre of the entire Huo family and the disappearance of Madam Huo and Ling Buyi. Marquis Chengyang subsequently remarried his cousin, Madam Chunyu. Less than a year later, Madam Huo and Ling Buyi miraculously reappeared.

Cheng Shaoshang questioned why the court officials didn't compel the Marquis to divorce Madam Chunyu and reunite with Madam Huo, given the Huo family's immense sacrifices. Cheng Shi explained that divorcing Madam Chunyu was impossible due to her powerful connections with Lady Ruyang, Princess Yuchang’s grandmother. Meanwhile, Madam Chunyu was indeed visiting Lady Ruyang, presenting a pure gold statue and artfully lamenting Ling Buyi's supposed "misunderstanding" of her, which made her position in Marquis Chengyang's residence difficult.

Lady Ruyang consoled her, fiercely criticizing Huo Junhua for her arrogance and for allegedly causing Madam Chunyu to miscarry and remain childless. Lady Ruyang promised that once Princess Yuchang married Ling Buyi, she would ensure Yuchang "persuaded" Huo Junhua. Just then, Princess Yuchang burst in, weeping uncontrollably, declaring that Ling Buyi’s public proposal to Cheng Shaoshang had made her a laughingstock throughout the capital.

Madam Chunyu immediately dismissed Cheng Shaoshang as unworthy and assured Princess Yuchang that she and the Marquis disliked Cheng Shaoshang and would ensure the marriage did not proceed, promising to speak with the Marquis to influence Ling Buyi. Lady Ruyang continued to comfort her distraught granddaughter. Back at the Cheng residence, Xiao Yuanyi renewed her pleas to Cheng Shaoshang, reiterating her belief that Marquis Chengyang's residence was a "tiger's den."

Cheng Shi added that while their words might seem harsh, they truly intended for her well-being. Xiao Yuanyi then expressed her deepest concern about Ling Buyi himself, describing him as fiercely resolute, unlike Lou Yao, and feared that the union of two such stubborn individuals would inevitably lead to conflict, asserting that she and Cheng Shi could not protect Cheng Shaoshang if they clashed.

Cheng Shaoshang admitted she knew Ling Buyi was "hard to get along with," prompting an exasperated Xiao Yuanyi to ask why she had then agreed to the marriage. Turning to her father, Cheng Shaoshang questioned if she truly had any other choice. She explained that her mother had publicly condemned her, and those who regularly mocked her rudeness had witnessed it all.

Her mother's desire to reject a "troublesome son-in-law" had led her to humiliate her daughter until she was deemed "worthless." Cheng Shaoshang asserted her self-esteem and pride, her deep desire to live with dignity. She directly asked her mother if she would have publicly humiliated Cheng Yang in the same manner if the Emperor had proposed to her. Xiao Yuanyi quickly responded that she would not have worried so much if it were Cheng Yang.

Cheng Shaoshang, annoyed, asked why Cheng Yang was relevant. Cheng Shi tried to explain that Xiao Yuanyi's harsh words were only a strategy to dissuade the Emperor, not to genuinely harm her, urging Cheng Shaoshang not to gamble her future out of anger. Cheng Shaoshang denied acting out of anger, stating she had seriously considered her options.

She acknowledged that her personality wouldn't change, and her mother would always worry, regardless of whom she married, so marrying soon might offer her mother some peace of mind. Xiao Yuanyi warned her of the lifelong unhappiness a woman faced if she married the wrong man. Cheng Shaoshang countered that her own unhappiness was preferable to the entire family suffering for defying an imperial order.

She confessed to having harbored resentment towards her parents for not raising her, but now understood that she, too, had never been filial to them. Therefore, they were "even." She declared that she didn't want her father to lose his position or to destroy the Cheng family's hard-won honor—a glory bought by her parents' abandonment of her—which would make her feel like her very birth was a "joke."

She concluded by firmly stating to her parents that she had made this decision herself, would not regret it, and would bear all future consequences alone, without involving the family. Xiao Yuanyi, resigned to her daughter's resolve, finally agreed not to hinder her future, consenting to the marriage. Cheng Shi watched his wife and daughter, their paths diverging, with a profound mix of emotions.

Episode 25 Recap

Ling Buyi found a suitable young lady and immediately went to Xinghua Courtyard to inform his mother, Huo Junhua, that all their past hardships would soon turn into happiness. Just as he finished speaking, Ling Yi unexpectedly arrived, expressing his disapproval of the match. He claimed that the Cheng family were merely new military generals with no standing in court, and Cheng Shaoshang was infamous, making her an unsuitable bride.

Ling Buyi found this deeply ironic, pointing out that Ling Yi himself had risen in status by relying on his wife's family connections, and now seemed to be hoping to further his career through his son's marriage. He firmly told Ling Yi that his mother wished not to see him and ordered him to leave. At that moment, Huo Junhua emerged, seemingly disoriented, mistaking Ling Yi for a nameless suitor from her youth.

She railed at him, declaring herself the only daughter of the Huo family and saying he was unworthy to even carry her shoes, then began to furiously hit him. Ling Buyi gently stopped his mother, telling her everything was alright, and then advised Ling Yi to quickly leave and seek medical treatment. That night, Han Wu visited General Huo's ancestral tablet, expressing profound regret for being fifteen years late in his duties.

Ling Buyi comforted him, saying General Huo would not blame him if they could uncover the truth behind Gu City and bring peace to the wronged souls. Han Wu then reported his investigation progress, revealing that a former military physician under Marquis Yue had changed his name and was now living in Western Village on the city outskirts. Han Wu decided to investigate alone, believing that Ling Buyi's subordinates would attract too much attention.

He promised to return within three days and explained a secret communication method used by the Huo Army: breaking a twig into one short and three long pieces if he was in danger, or two short and two long pieces if he was safe. Han Wu, sensing Ling Buyi's urgency, inquired if there was more to the breach of Gu City.

Ling Buyi confirmed his suspicions and added that his swift actions were also driven by having found someone dear to his heart. Han Wu expressed his joy, lamenting that General Huo could not witness Ling Buyi's achievements and upcoming marriage. Ling Buyi mentioned that Han Wu should be back in time for the day of his betrothal gifts. When asked about the young lady who captured his heart, Ling Buyi described Cheng Shaoshang as extraordinary.

He admitted that, as someone trapped in the past, he believed he was destined to be alone, but with her by his side through life's challenges, their path was perhaps worth venturing. Meanwhile, Cheng Shaoshang was visibly troubled. Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi heard a flute melody drifting from outside and were filled with emotions. Xiao Yuanyi confided in her maid, feeling that she was a thousand times more terrible in her daughter's heart than Ling Buyi.

She reflected on their past actions, acknowledging they had wronged Cheng Shaoshang, which led to her defiance and willingness to even sacrifice her marriage to spite them. Cheng Shi observed that both Cheng Shaoshang and Xiao Yuanyi were stubborn and soft-hearted, always choosing the most hurtful words. Xiao Yuanyi, however, blamed herself for abandoning Cheng Shaoshang and shaping her into who she was.

She hoped that unlike many unhappy couples in the world, Cheng Shaoshang and Ling Buyi would share a loving bond and grow old together. The next day marked the wedding of the Lou and He families. Yuan Shen approached his mother, hoping she would attend, but she remained cold and refused. She also showed no interest in the portraits of marriageable young ladies Mr. Wu had found for him.

She advised Yuan Shen to make his own decisions, emphasizing that one should never rely on others for things they can handle themselves. Feeling disappointed, Yuan Shen consoled himself, thinking that perhaps Cheng Shaoshang might even envy his unrestrained life, musing on how everyone in the world could be both ridiculous and pathetic. Ling Buyi had sent a message to Cheng Shaoshang, and the following morning he arrived at her residence to escort her to the Lou family's wedding celebrations.

Lou Yao congratulated Cheng Shaoshang on her engagement to Ling Buyi, while Yuan Shen, seeing Ling Buyi, quickly remarked on Cheng Shaoshang's rapid change of fiancé, suggesting she had yielded to power. Ling Buyi retorted, offering to recommend Yuan Shen for an official position if he was bored, rather than meddling in ladies' marriages. Yuan Shen revealed that his master, Huangfu Yi, had already recommended him for a position, meaning he and Ling Buyi would soon be colleagues.

He playfully warned Ling Buyi that he would "trouble" him in the future, correcting himself to "trouble him with favors," to which Ling Buyi welcomed the challenge, inviting Yuan Shen to their wedding. Yuan Shen continued to mock Cheng Shaoshang, calling her indifferent to love and only interested in scheming. Ling Buyi, in turn, declared his mutual affection with Cheng Shaoshang, promising they would grow old together, while disparaging Yuan Shen's petty and indecent nature.

Lou Yao attempted to interject, praising Cheng Shaoshang, but Ling Buyi sharply cut him off. He Zhaojun warmly welcomed Cheng Shaoshang and led her to the women's seating area. She confided in Cheng Shaoshang about her own misfortunes, having been married twice, with her first wedding ending in her family's demise and her second being a somber affair due to mourning. She thanked Cheng Shaoshang for returning Lou Yao to her.

Cheng Shaoshang light-heartedly retorted, wondering if He Zhaojun thought she got a bargain by marrying Ling Buyi. He Zhaojun shared her chilling experience of witnessing Ling Buyi's brutal interrogation in Feng Yi County, noting his intense "killing intent." Cheng Shaoshang defended him, acknowledging his ruthlessness as a general was displayed appropriately. He Zhaojun observed their growing affection, then expressed her own preference for a soft-hearted and gentle man, implying Lou Yao, and acknowledging Cheng Shaoshang was also an honest person.

Cheng Shaoshang reaffirmed her past decision, stating she only broke off her engagement to Lou Yao for his future, and vowed to protect her family members, including Lou Yao, whom she now regarded as an elder brother. He Zhaojun echoed the sentiment of cherishing Lou Yao as her last remaining family and hoped for Cheng Shaoshang's happiness with Ling Buyi. He Zhaojun then excused herself, explaining she couldn't stay long due to mourning, having merely wished to offer her gratitude.

At the main banquet, Ling Buyi raised a toast to Lou Ben, commending his sharp memory and strategic map-making during the Feng Yi County campaign, predicting a high position for him in the future. Grand Tutor Lou, Lou Ben's uncle, subtly warned against ambition, stating that Lou Yao's marriage to He Zhaojun was the greatest imperial favor, and assisting Ling Buyi was merely their duty as General He's in-laws. Lou Ben agreed, claiming to prefer a carefree life over officialdom.

Ling Buyi, however, asserted that if His Majesty chose to promote a worthy individual, no one would dare obstruct him. Amidst the conversations, other guests murmured about Cheng Shaoshang's unusually quick second engagement, speculating about a pre-existing affair with Ling Buyi. Wang Yanji subtly alerted Ling Buyi to the situation by asking about Cheng Shaoshang's cloak in his carriage.

In the women's section, Lou Li openly criticized Cheng Shaoshang, accusing her of being fickle and of abandoning her cousin to pursue Ling Buyi. She suggested Cheng Shaoshang should have grieved and secluded herself. Cheng Shaoshang fiercely rebuked her, demanding why she should remain unmarried or miserable when Lou Yao had already found a new bride.

She clarified that her broken engagement was to fulfill General He's dying wish, and her current engagement was by imperial decree, implying that Lou Li had no right to question her or her family. She challenged Lou Li to repeat her words in front of her parents. First Madam Lou, trying to smooth things over, dismissed it as a "joke between young ladies" and asserted that her family felt no resentment over Cheng Shaoshang not marrying Lou Yao.

Xiao Yuanyi, surprisingly, echoed this sentiment, claiming their family was overjoyed with Ling Buyi as a son-in-law. Wang Jin then openly insulted Cheng Shaoshang, calling her cunning, seductive, and manipulative, suggesting she had bewitched the "great man" Ling Buyi, who would be ignorant of such "crafty and immoral trickeries." Suddenly, Black Armored Guards appeared in the women's banquet area, causing a stir.

Ling Buyi entered, unfazed by the gender segregation, declaring that having a sense of shame and propriety was more important than trivial seating arrangements. He then dramatically toppled a large screen dividing the men's and women's sections, proclaiming he would teach everyone present about proper conduct and shame.

As guests whispered about Cheng Shaoshang's incredible fortune to have Ling Buyi's protection, Yuan Shen, annoyed by the spectacle, "accidentally" spilled deer meat on two guests' robes, sarcastically remarking on their "great blessing" to have such high-quality venison to wash their clothes. Ling Buyi then turned his attention to Lou Li, publicly shaming her for her vulgar remarks while unmarried, and admonished First Madam Lou for her daughter's lack of upbringing.

Finally, Ling Buyi exposed a private scandal involving Wang Jin's family, revealing that Wang Jin's elder brother, Wang Long, and their father had shared two beautiful concubines that the Fifth Prince had gifted to Ling Buyi, which he then gave to Wang Long. Ling Buyi sarcastically advised Wang Jin to return home and decide whether to call those women "sister-in-law" or "mother." Wang Jin was left speechless.

Ling Buyi then raised his wine cup to all the guests, formally inviting them to his wedding with Cheng Shaoshang. His words were met with immediate enthusiastic agreement and congratulations from the once-hesitant nobles and ladies, who now offered apologies and respectful bows. Cheng Shaoshang observed that Ling Buyi's use of power was more effective than any logical argument in securing her dignity.

Episode 26 Recap

After the banquet, Ling Buyi personally escorted Cheng Shaoshang home in a quiet carriage, the only sound the turning of the wheels outside. Ling Buyi initiated conversation, asking why she seemed unhappy. Cheng Shaoshang directly expressed her true feelings, stating she did not wish to rely on his power. She told him that his words carried more weight than anything she could say, and she had witnessed firsthand the immense influence he wielded.

She questioned if her access to his power was solely conditional on marrying him, bearing his children, and ensuring his happiness. Ling Buyi responded that a husband and wife are one entity, and once married, what was his would be hers. Cheng Shaoshang conceded that she might be overthinking, explaining that she was accustomed to living an unrestrained life and feared losing herself if she had to adhere to his rules.

When Cheng Shaoshang took out a biscuit to eat, Ling Buyi stopped her, explaining that eating late at night could lead to indigestion. He shared his military practice of abstaining from food after noon, believing hunger kept one alert and eating too much could diminish the will to fight. Cheng Shaoshang, however, disliked being controlled, even if it was for her own good.

She firmly told him that if he wished to marry her, he would have to tolerate her temperament. Ling Buyi tried to reason with her, asking for her justification for eating the biscuit despite it being harmful. Cheng Shaoshang retorted that not everything in the world had a reason, just like his unexpected proposal to her. Just then, a report arrived concerning an emergency in Western Village.

Ling Buyi immediately sent Cheng Shaoshang back to her residence and then proceeded to Western Village himself, having learned that Han Wu had not returned and was possibly in danger. His subordinate reported that despite Han Wu's promise to return within three days, he had not been seen, and suspicious individuals were spotted in the area. Ling Buyi, recalling the Huo Army's practice of leaving clues if in danger, decided to investigate in person, setting aside his upcoming betrothal duties.

In Western Village, Ling Buyi located a hidden message left by Han Wu: "two short and two long" sticks, signaling that he was safe and would return on his own. Ling Buyi instructed his men to remain vigilant for any further clues and prepared to return to the capital. Meanwhile, at the Cheng family residence, Old Madam Cheng was ecstatic about Cheng Shaoshang's engagement to Ling Buyi, an adopted son of His Majesty whose status was akin to a prince.

She proudly boasted that no other lady in the capital could compare to Shaoshang. Convinced that Ling Buyi's family would send more valuable betrothal gifts than the Lou family, she enthusiastically ordered her servants to clear the front courtyard for the incoming gifts. Xiao Yuanyi, however, cautioned her against premature celebration, pointing out that the engagement cards had not yet been exchanged.

Undeterred, the Old Madam insisted that Xiao Yuanyi ensure the marriage was secured, offering to visit the Ling family herself if necessary. Shortly after, Lianfang delivered a message from the Ling family housekeeper, stating that Madam Chunyu was unwell and could not deliver the betrothal gifts on time. The housekeeper also explicitly requested the Cheng family not to visit. This blatant slight greatly angered the Cheng family, and the Old Madam despaired, fearing the marriage would fall through.

Unbeknownst to them, Madam Chunyu was feigning illness. Lady Ruyang, emboldened by this delay, declared that without the betrothal gifts and exchanged engagement cards, the marriage was not binding, giving her granddaughter, Princess Yuchang, another chance with Ling Buyi. She plotted to "reason" with His Majesty to annul the engagement. However, news soon arrived that Ling Buyi had already sent a request to His Majesty, stating he was "fatherless and mother-sick" and pleading with the Emperor to oversee his marriage.

His Majesty had agreed and designated Lord Ruyang to serve as the protocol officer and deliver the betrothal gifts the very next day. Lady Ruyang and Princess Yuchang were stunned, realizing Lord Ruyang was the only eligible "Old Lord." Lord Ruyang, a man dedicated to a philosophy of "non-action" and estranged from Lady Ruyang, was visited at his temple retreat by his furious wife and granddaughter. Lady Ruyang accused him of forgetting his roots, recounting her past hardships.

Princess Yuchang, crying dramatically, threatened to become a nun if her wishes were not met. To placate them, Lord Ruyang deceptively agreed to find Cheng Shaoshang and attempt to ruin the engagement on their behalf. The next day, Lord Ruyang, acting as His Majesty's representative, arrived at the Cheng residence with the grand betrothal gifts. Despite the display, Cheng Shaoshang remained visibly unhappy. Lord Ruyang found her in a secluded courtyard, angrily hitting a wooden table.

Initially intending to intimidate her, he instead listened as she expressed her frustration, feeling like the defenseless table, stepped on by anyone. She voiced her disdain for the prevailing notion that she was "climbing the ranks" to marry Ling Buyi, asserting her desire for an equal and respectful partnership. Shaoshang boldly deduced his identity and challenged him to cancel the marriage, admitting her own fear of power, much like him.

Lord Ruyang, reflecting on his own 50-year-long unhappy and unequal marriage, was moved. Though he initially refused to be manipulated, stating he had watched Ling Buyi grow up and wished him happiness, he ultimately decided to support the marriage, perhaps to remedy the unhappiness of his own. Furious that he had successfully delivered the gifts, Lady Ruyang and Princess Yuchang confronted Lord Ruyang again. Princess Yuchang offered to be a co-wife to Ling Buyi, serving alongside Cheng Shaoshang.

Pushed to his limit, Lord Ruyang found the suggestion disgraceful. He finally exploded, reprimanding Lady Ruyang for her insatiable greed and revealing her long-held secret: the "life-saving meal" she gave the Emperor decades ago was merely a bowl of spoiled rice, a favor she had leveraged for years of prosperity. He then gave Princess Yuchang a firm ultimatum: find a suitable husband to marry, or stay at the temple and become a nun.

Upon learning of Han Wu's safety, Ling Buyi decided to return to the capital immediately to apologize to the Cheng family. His subordinate Liangqiu Qi noted that Ling Buyi's stern demeanor resembled someone going to interrogate rather than apologize. Taking the feedback, Ling Buyi asked the Liang brothers for interesting stories to help him make a better impression. That evening, the Cheng family gathered for dinner. Cheng Shaoshang, still feeling Xiao Yuanyi didn't truly care for her, provoked her mother.

Surprisingly, Xiao Yuanyi remained unusually calm. Cheng Yang and the brothers defended Xiao Yuanyi, highlighting her recent stress. Cheng Song and Shaogong whispered that Shaoshang's behavior was due to Ling Buyi's absence during the gift ceremony and resolved to give him a "warm welcome" on her behalf. Suddenly, a group of black armored guards stormed into the main hall, followed by Ling Buyi himself. He apologized for his absence, citing urgent military affairs.

Cheng Shaoshang sarcastically remarked that he always made decisions independently. Xiao Yuanyi, attempting to ease the tension, invited him to dine in a separate hall, but Ling Buyi insisted on joining them, stating they were soon to be family. His presence made the dinner stiff and awkward.

Ling Buyi tried to lighten the mood by recounting a cautionary tale about a selfish scholar who drowned due to his unwillingness to help repair a leaking boat, a story that only further unnerved the silent family. He then repeatedly offered toasts to the Cheng brothers, who sweated profusely. Just as the tension peaked, Old Madam Cheng arrived, her face beaming.

She showered Ling Buyi with compliments, declaring that he and Cheng Shaoshang were a perfect match, as if "carved from the same mold." Ling Buyi shrewdly agreed with her "wisdom," leaving her to ponder the true meaning of his compliment. Following the betrothal, Ling Buyi began frequenting the Cheng residence, but he brought with him a detachment of black armored guards. He justified their presence as necessary for "home protection."

Cheng Shaoshang observed with a complex mix of emotions as six personal guards remained close by, another dozen stood guard around the house, and additional bodyguards were stationed at the main entrance, her brow furrowed in unease.

Episode 27 Recap

Since the betrothal, the Cheng residence has been bustling, though not in the way one might expect. Ling Buyi stationed black armored guards around the front and back courtyards, maintaining constant patrols day and night, ostensibly for protection. This newfound security came with a price: rigorous training sessions. The Cheng brothers, initially enthusiastic about practicing martial arts with Ling Buyi, soon found themselves exhausted and complaining, with even Cheng Shi admitting he couldn't keep up.

One morning, before Cheng Shaoshang had even fully woken, Ling Buyi carried her, still wrapped in her bedding, out to the courtyard. There, a scene of intense training awaited her: weapons, shouting, Cheng Song balancing on a rock, Cheng Shaogong struggling with archery, and even the delicate Cheng Yang forced to practice swordplay. Under the watchful eyes of the black armored guards, no servant or family member dared to slack off, all sweating profusely.

Ling Buyi applied his rigorous standards to everyone, including Cheng Shaoshang, who had to balance porcelain basins on her hands and head, maintaining perfect stillness. In stark contrast, Ling Buyi himself trained with heavy weights, appearing completely unfazed. After an hour, Cheng Shaoshang instructed Lianfang to prepare cold plum drinks to quench their thirst, but Ling Buyi, claiming it was for their health, replaced them with hot tea, leaving everyone crestfallen.

The Cheng family had initially assumed the worst outcome of the betrothal would merely be sharing meals with their future son-in-law. However, the unexpected and demanding training regime left a deep impression on everyone. Despite her growing desire to break off the engagement, Cheng Shaoshang faced stern opposition from Old Madam Cheng, who emphatically declared that the marriage must proceed and even threatened her own life if Cheng Shaoshang backed out.

Seeing the situation, Xiao Yuanyi and Cheng Shi, along with the other siblings, quickly made their excuses and departed, leaving Cheng Shaoshang to deal with Ling Buyi alone. That night, Cheng Shaoshang scaled the wall and went to the Wan residence, where she poured out her frustrations to Wan Qiqi over drinks. She confessed that she missed the past, reminiscing about Lou Yao, who, despite their similar ages, wouldn't have interfered with her choices, even if they weren't ideal.

Ling Buyi, on the other hand, had grown up in the imperial palace and was raised by the Emperor and Empress. He was independent and decisive from a young age, always having his own strong opinions whether in study or in battle. He wouldn't simply comply with Cheng Shaoshang's wishes like Lou Yao, instead expecting her to follow his arrangements. This constant pressure made Cheng Shaoshang's life feel tedious and unbearable.

Wan Qiqi listened to Cheng Shaoshang's complaints but still believed she harbored feelings for Ling Buyi; otherwise, she wouldn't have agreed to marry him. Cheng Shaoshang, however, struggled to understand what "liking" truly meant. As they talked, Ling Buyi suddenly appeared. Before Cheng Shaoshang could react, he effortlessly picked her up and carried her on his back to the Cheng residence.

Upon their return, Xiao Yuanyi admonished Ling Buyi, reminding him that despite their engagement, they were not yet married and should observe proper boundaries between men and women. Ling Buyi explained that he had no choice, as Cheng Shaoshang was clinging to him and wouldn't let go. Seeing her daughter's unseemly behavior, Xiao Yuanyi felt deeply embarrassed. Meanwhile, Cheng Song went to check on Wan Qiqi in the horse cart and found her utterly drunk and causing a ruckus.

In a moment of desperation, he kissed her. The next morning, Cheng Shaoshang awoke from her drunken stupor with no memory of the previous night. Lianfang filled her in on the details, including Ling Buyi's tireless care throughout the night. Ling Buyi personally brought her hangover soup and peach blossom liquor, specially concocted to be less intoxicating. However, Cheng Shaoshang coldly stated her preference for Qianlizui, her demeanor clearly rejecting him.

Ling Buyi sensed Cheng Shaoshang's unhappiness, recognizing that their strained relationship stemmed mostly from fundamental differences in their views. He acknowledged her strong will but also his own equally firm resolve. He admitted that having been raised in the military, he was accustomed to strict orders and direct action, and therefore struggled with the subtleties of family interactions, which he had never truly experienced.

He assured her he wasn't trying to control or oppress her but was simply trying to learn how to integrate into family life. Cheng Shaoshang, however, found his "care" suffocating. She told him she didn't need his peach blossom liquor or his constant attention, emphasizing that he wasn't an ordinary person and their relationship was unequal from the start, especially since he hadn't consulted her before seeking the Emperor's decree for their marriage.

She felt completely overwhelmed and unable to breathe under his "love." When he asked directly if she liked him, she declared that if his definition of love involved constant submission, interference, daily surveillance, forced training, and causing her family endless turmoil, then she could not bear such love and would never like such a life—a life without him. Ling Buyi asked if this was truly how she felt, and she confirmed it was her sincerest wish.

She then asked him to leave her home, her life, and herself, stating that they should sever all ties and go their separate ways. Ling Buyi, though deeply hurt, agreed to her request and left, granting her freedom. After his departure, Cheng Shaoshang remained in a state of loss. Learning from Lianfang that Ling Buyi had stayed up all night to care for her, never once complaining about her drunken antics, stirred a complex mix of emotions within her.

As she prepared to leave her room to see her parents, she discovered a pair of brand-new snake leather shoes at her door. Lianfang explained that Ling Buyi, concerned that Cheng Shaoshang often went barefoot, had hunted a giant python specifically to craft these shoes, which were designed to be comfortable in all seasons. Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi had observed the tension between their daughter and Ling Buyi, initially dismissing it as typical lovers' quarrels.

However, upon learning that Cheng Shaoshang had directly proposed breaking off the engagement, they became serious and urged her to reconsider. Cheng Shi argued that Ling Buyi had done nothing wrong and that their interactions clearly indicated mutual affection. Xiao Yuanyi added that no one can live entirely according to their own will, not even the Emperor.

She pointed out that Cheng Shaoshang's confidence that Ling Buyi wouldn't retaliate stemmed from his affection for her, suggesting she was acting proud and spoiled. Breaking an imperially sanctioned betrothal, she emphasized, was not the act of a noble person. Seeing Cheng Shaoshang's shifting expressions, her parents continued to impart their wisdom on married life.

They explained that they themselves had never sought wealth or power when they joined the military; their initial goal was simply to protect their hometown and ensure their family's well-being. They said that if Cheng Shaoshang truly disliked Ling Buyi, they would unconditionally support her decision, even if it meant resigning from their official posts and returning to the countryside to live as peasants.

They urged her to be honest with herself: did she truly not like Ling Buyi and not want to be with him? They reminded her that no one is perfect and that couples learn and grow together through adjustment. To marry someone one truly loves is a rare blessing, and they wanted her to think carefully before making a final decision, assuring her of their unwavering support regardless of her choice.

Cheng Shaoshang was deeply conflicted, pondering her parents' words, Lianfang's revelations, and all her experiences with Ling Buyi. As the lamps were lit that evening, a realization dawned on her. She immediately rose and hurried to the main hall, declaring her decision to marry Ling Buyi.

Episode 28 Recap

After observing from the city tower, Ling Buyi noticed a group of assassins in black attempting to kill his subordinate, Han Wu. Ling Buyi intervened, saving Han Wu and leaving one assassin alive for questioning. Han Wu reported that he had located a former army physician who revealed that the soldiers dispatched to investigate the miasma in Gu City had not died from the miasma as reported, but from sword wounds.

Fearing for his life after uncovering the secret, the physician had deserted the army and lived in seclusion under a false identity. Before Han Wu could question the captured assassin further, the assassin mortally wounded him with a hidden weapon before being killed by Ling Buyi's men. Han Wu succumbed to his injuries shortly after. Ling Buyi’s men discovered that the assassins’ fighting formation and the poisoned, hollow needles they used were military-grade.

Ling Buyi deduced that the mastermind, Marquis Yue, was covering up the truth about the Gu City incident, where he deliberately delayed reinforcements, leading to the city's fall. With Han Wu's death, Ling Buyi knew Marquis Yue was aware of the investigation. Realizing an open investigation was too dangerous, Ling Buyi decided they must proceed with caution and secrecy. Meanwhile, Wen Di was distressed by Ling Buyi’s refusal to see the imperial physician sent to examine his leg injury.

Ling Buyi had claimed the injury was from a horse riding accident, but Wen Di knew Ling Buyi was an expert rider and would never suffer such an injury. He confided in Consort Yue that Ling Buyi had deliberately concealed the truth to protect Cheng Shaoshang from potential punishment. Consort Yue found this behavior normal, reminiscent of their own youth, but noted that unlike their mutual affection, Cheng Shaoshang had not reciprocated Ling Buyi’s feelings or even visited him.

She playfully suggested that Ling Buyi had sustained the injury for nothing if Cheng Shaoshang remained unaware of it. Taking Consort Yue’s advice, Wen Di decided to summon both Ling Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang to the palace the following day, intending to make Cheng Shaoshang show concern for Ling Buyi.

Upon arriving at the palace, Cheng Shaoshang encountered Third Princess, who immediately confronted her, accusing her of being crude, cunning, and a temptress who had seduced Ling Buyi, thus being unworthy of him. When Third Princess commanded her attendants to slap Cheng Shaoshang, Ling Buyi intervened. Third Princess tried to leverage their old ties, but Ling Buyi sharply rebuked her, accusing her of being ungrateful and criticizing her for her shameless pursuit of wealth, which he said disgraced His Majesty.

He then declared that Cheng Shaoshang was the only woman for him in this life, took her hand, and led her away. Cheng Shaoshang, though secretly pleased, playfully chided Ling Buyi for walking so fast despite his injury, noting his sudden change from coldness to overt concern. Ling Buyi found her sudden concern amusing and firmly reiterated that he would never annul their engagement.

Cheng Shaoshang, reflecting on their interactions and recognizing Ling Buyi’s genuine affection, confessed that she, too, had no intention of breaking the engagement, admitting that even her "heart of stone" had been moved. Though she still felt a sense of inequality in their relationship, Ling Buyi assured her that as his wife, all that he possessed would be hers, and he would only protect, never oppress, her.

To demonstrate his commitment, he offered her food from his handkerchief, promising to respect her preferences. Deeply touched, Cheng Shaoshang felt that she had finally found her true home. Later, in the main hall, Wen Di, Empress Xuan, the Crown Prince, and Crown Princess awaited them. Wen Di questioned Cheng Shaoshang’s lack of scholarly accomplishment, wondering if she was truly worthy of Ling Buyi, a pillar of the nation whom Wen Di regarded as his own son.

Ling Buyi entered and knelt beside Cheng Shaoshang, much to Wen Di's chagrin, who, concerned for Ling Buyi’s leg, permitted both of them to sit. Cheng Shaoshang honestly admitted her limited education due to her parents' long absence. Ling Buyi, however, defended her, praising her humility. Wen Di ultimately decided that Cheng Shaoshang would stay in Changqiu Palace to be personally tutored by Empress Xuan.

When Cheng Shaoshang expressed reluctance to live in the palace, Ling Buyi proposed that he would personally escort her to and from the palace every day, an arrangement that delighted the Emperor and Empress. Cheng Shaoshang then bravely seized the opportunity to file a complaint against Wang Ling, the daughter of Cavalry General Wang Chun. She accused Wang Ling of slandering her publicly during the Lou family's wedding feast, calling her "foxy" and "pretentious."

Although the Crown Prince initially dismissed it as a minor squabble, Cheng Shaoshang argued eloquently that even trivial family matters could destabilize the nation, and that tolerating Wang Ling's persistent harassment would escalate the issue and tarnish Ling Buyi’s reputation. Ling Buyi and Empress Xuan supported her claims, confirming Wang Ling’s known obsession with Ling Buyi. Convinced, Wen Di ordered a decree to be sent to the Wang family.

Meanwhile, at the Wang family residence, Madam Wen Xiu, a member of the once-illustrious Qian'an royal family and a relative of Wen Di, was meeting with an envoy from Shouchun. The envoy, sent by Prefect Peng Kun, relayed the dire situation of Madam Wen Xiu's brother, the young Lord Qian'an, and requested her assistance in convincing the Emperor to grant Shouchun the right to mint its own currency.

The envoy then pressed Madam Wen Xiu to marry her daughter, Wang Ling, to the elderly and childless Peng Kun, citing his past sacrifice of crippling himself while rescuing the old Lord Qian'an from miasma. Madam Wen Xiu initially refused, but driven by her ambition to revive the Qian’an royal clan, which she believed was the rightful ruler of the realm, she resolved to sacrifice her daughter's future, despite Wang Ling's tearful pleas.

Wang Ling angrily compared her fate to Cheng Shaoshang’s prestigious marriage, feeling mocked by a "daughter of a military family." Just then, a palace attendant arrived with Wen Di’s oral edict. Madam Wen Xiu, clinging to her royal pride, refused to kneel before the attendant, whom she called a "castrated man." The decree reprimanded Wang Ling for her arrogant conduct and her father for his negligence, ordering them to reflect on their actions.

After the attendant left, an enraged Madam Wen Xiu slapped Wang Ling, scolding her for disgracing the family by being publicly punished over a "daughter of a military family." She vowed to march into the palace to confront Empress Xuan, asserting that she, not Xuan, would have been empress if not for circumstances. Wang Ling, fearful of defying the imperial edict to stay home, protested, but Madam Wen Xiu defiantly declared her fearlessness.

Episode 29 Recap

Empress Xuan showed an uncharacteristic warmth and talkativeness towards Cheng Shaoshang, even preparing a side room in her palace for her. The Empress meticulously arranged everything, choosing a new fragrance for sleeping and even setting up a long table for Cheng Shaoshang's interest in craftsmen's designs, all of which left Cheng Shaoshang deeply touched and somewhat overwhelmed. Cheng Shaoshang expressed that her own mother, a general, never pampered her this way.

Empress Xuan explained that a young lady should be pampered, especially since Cheng Shaoshang had left home to study palace rules, which was already a hardship. She didn't want Cheng Shaoshang's parents to worry. Cheng Shaoshang also worried about having brought trouble by complaining about Wang Ling in front of His Majesty, but Empress Xuan assured her she wasn't angry.

Cheng Shaoshang wondered if it was simply love for Ling Buyi that extended to her, but Empress Xuan clarified it was also due to curiosity and fondness for the woman Ling Buyi adored. More significantly, Empress Xuan empathized with Cheng Shaoshang's difficult childhood, having grown up without her parents and suffering mistreatment.

Empress Xuan admitted she was in a similar situation herself, knowing how hard it was to survive, and thus found herself wanting to treat Cheng Shaoshang better and be partial to her, not feeling offended even by some misbehavior. Cheng Shaoshang was moved to understand the Empress's deep affection.

After leaving Changqiu Palace, Ling Buyi confronted Cheng Shaoshang, discerning that her complaint against Wang Ling was also a deliberate attempt to "test the waters" and understand the true intentions of the Emperor and Empress towards her. Cheng Shaoshang affirmed her strategic move, stating she needed to know their temperaments to protect herself if she was to spend time under the Empress.

She spoke highly of Empress Xuan, deeply moved by the Empress's kindness, even if her kindness stems from pity for her childhood. Ling Buyi, however, hinted that too soft a heart might not always be beneficial. He urged Cheng Shaoshang not to risk herself again, inviting her to ask him directly about the Emperor and Empress in the future.

Cheng Shaoshang retorted that she also wished for them to understand her character; she detested being helpless and preferred to fight rather than passively accept her fate. Ling Buyi then asked if she knew his story, revealing he grew up in Changqiu Palace. He then led her to the city wall, where he shared a poignant childhood memory.

As a young boy, he would often come to this very spot to gaze at the myriad of twinkling city lights, dreaming of having just one tiny light that was truly his own – a seemingly simple wish that he considered profoundly difficult to achieve. He then explained his decision to join the military: firstly, to repay His Majesty's benevolence, and secondly, to safeguard this "galaxy on earth," the people and the city, from the battlefield.

He declared that he had finally found his brightest star in Cheng Shaoshang, pulling her close and passionately kissing her. This public display of affection caused nearby patrolling soldiers to hastily flee in embarrassment. Back home, Cheng Shaoshang was visibly flustered, her face red, as she recounted the day's events to Cheng Song. She falsely claimed her appearance was due to nervousness about her upcoming palace lessons.

After Cheng Song jokingly expressed relief at her absence from home, Cheng Shaoshang hesitantly asked him if he had ever been kissed. His strong reaction led to a whispered agreement between the siblings: they would keep their respective secrets from their mother, Xiao Yuanyi, whose fiery gaze would surely mean death for them both.

The next morning, Lianfang had to rouse a sleepy Cheng Shaoshang, reminding her that Ling Buyi's carriage was already waiting to take her to the palace for lessons with Empress Xuan. Lianfang had even prepared snacks to "nourish her brain," knowing Cheng Shaoshang often slept poorly when studying and wouldn't return until dark. Meanwhile, the Liang brothers, accompanying Ling Buyi's carriage, grumbled about the early start.

One brother mentioned Ling Buyi had been up all night, having "walked under the moonlight", clearly still "swept away" by his first kiss. They lamented that these early mornings would now be a constant reality, as Ling Buyi was always worried about his "future bride." Cheng Shaoshang's palace education began with cultural knowledge, followed by lessons on being a virtuous lady and proper etiquette, culminating in various skills expected of a fiancée.

She found herself struggling, often dozing off during lessons on classic texts and ancient rituals. Empress Xuan remained remarkably patient, never scolding her. When Cheng Shaoshang confessed her disinterest and asked if her incompetence was truly her fault or if some books were simply boring, Empress Xuan kindly assured her that some profound teachings were indeed beyond her current age, making them uninteresting. Empress Xuan then gave Cheng Shaoshang a puzzle ring, which Cheng Shaoshang effortlessly solved.

Cheng Shaoshang then proudly displayed her own inventions, including a small crossbow, demonstrating her proficiency in mechanisms. Empress Xuan praised her unique talents, encouraging her to hold her head high and never feel inferior, promising to teach her whatever she lacked. Cheng Shaoshang, feeling more confident, hinted at possessing even more skills. Cheng Shaoshang, learning of Empress Xuan's back discomfort, offered to help.

To the surprise and initial alarm of Madam Zhai, who found the method "preposterous," Cheng Shaoshang used a traditional foot massage technique on the Empress's back, explaining it would relax strained muscles. Empress Xuan, however, confirmed she felt "much relieved." Luo Jitong, a fellow lady-in-waiting, expressed envy for Cheng Shaoshang's unique skills and her good fortune in marrying a hero like Ling Buyi, lamenting her own impending marriage far away in the Northwest.

Cheng Shaoshang tried to console her, assuring her that her new family would be influential. Their lighthearted conversation was interrupted by a commotion outside. Madam Zhai identified the source as Madam Wen Xiu, Wang Ling's mother and Empress Xuan's cousin, arriving uninvited. Cheng Shaoshang immediately realized Madam Wen Xiu was likely there for revenge. Upon entering, Madam Wen Xiu brazenly insulted Cheng Shaoshang's appearance, accusing her of using her looks to "seduce" Ling Buyi.

She also disparaged Cheng Shaoshang for quickly adopting Empress Xuan's "shut people out" demeanor after only a few days in the palace. Sensing the escalating tension, Empress Xuan calmly instructed Cheng Shaoshang to escort Wang Ling to the side hall. In the side hall, Wang Ling immediately surveyed her surroundings with disdain, remarking that the furnishings were "crude and simple," implying Empress Xuan treated Cheng Shaoshang poorly.

She then boasted about her own childhood in the palace, claiming she enjoyed luxurious gold lacquerware, raw silk brocade, and expensive fragrances. Cheng Shaoshang swiftly cut her off, flaunting a finely potted ceramic cup and a soft cushion that Ling Buyi had specially sent for her, noting how thoughtful he was in worrying about her knees. She enjoyed seeing Wang Ling "upset" by her happiness.

Wang Ling accused Cheng Shaoshang of shamelessness for constantly mentioning Ling Buyi, but Cheng Shaoshang retorted that she liked Wang Ling because she was "stupid enough" that she could "easily hold something against you whenever you say something," advising her to "keep her mouth shut."

Cheng Shaoshang then exposed Wang Ling's exaggerated claims about palace luxuries, pointing out that His Majesty was frugal and the Empress's chambers were not adorned with such extravagance, suggesting Wang Ling risked being punished for "living extravagantly." Wang Ling clarified that those items were from the old palace, not bought with state funds, but Cheng Shaoshang merely dismissed them as "not yours then."

Exasperated, Wang Ling then launched into a tirade about the Qian'an royal family's supposed opulence, claiming their expenditures should surpass the palace's. She recounted her maternal grandfather's past power and wealth, stating that His Majesty had only married Empress Xuan, whom her grandfather fostered, to secure an alliance, despite his true love for Consort Yue. Wang Ling lamented her family's decline since her grandfather's death, claiming they were now merely a "royal family that is passed its prime."

Madam Wen Xiu then directly addressed Empress Xuan, accusing her of sending Cheng Shaoshang away because she was too "protective of Lady Cheng." She then declared her true purpose: to secure minting rights for her younger brother, Junior Lord Qian'an, who was enduring a "hard life in Shouchun." She emphasized that her brother was the last male descendant of the Qian'an family, who had sacrificed much for His Majesty's cause, and thus, the Empress should not refuse this "small matter."

Empress Xuan, however, firmly stated her policy of never "meddling in state affairs" and declined the request. Enraged, Madam Wen Xiu lashed out, reminding Empress Xuan of the Qian'an family's past kindness, specifically how they took her in after her father's death. She defiantly addressed the Empress by her personal name, Xuan Shen'an, questioning her authority as empress. Despite Madam Zhai's attempts to intervene, Empress Xuan’s earlier command to close the doors prevented anyone from entering.

Madam Wen Xiu continued her verbal assault, calling Empress Xuan "ungrateful" and a hypocrite, claiming everyone should see her "ungrateful face." She recounted sharing her best with Empress Xuan and how her own father treated the Empress like a daughter, even helping her marry His Majesty, the best possible husband. Empress Xuan maintained she would "never forget Uncle's kindness."

Still, Madam Wen Xiu persisted, lamenting her father's death, the collapse of their family's power, and how her brother was now merely a "living signboard" to prevent His Majesty from appearing ungrateful. She concluded by branding Empress Xuan as "ungrateful" once more. In a fit of fury, Madam Wen Xiu knocked over a candelabra. Cheng Shaoshang instinctively rushed to shield Empress Xuan, injuring her hand in the process.

Cheng Shaoshang then fiercely rebuked Madam Wen Xiu, asserting that Empress Xuan had closed the palace doors precisely to protect Madam Wen Xiu from the consequences of her "nonsense," warning that if her seditious words were to leak out, she and her children would not meet a peaceful end. Madam Wen Xiu, scoffing at the threat of death, proclaimed her fearlessness.

Cheng Shaoshang challenged her, asking why, if she was so fearless, she did not confront His Majesty directly instead of harassing the Empress. Madam Wen Xiu retaliated by mocking Cheng Shaoshang's eloquence and Ling Buyi's choice in a future bride. Madam Wen Xiu reiterated her claims, saying she was not afraid of death and His Majesty would not allow her to die, implying her visit was merely to test Empress Xuan's gratitude.

Cheng Shaoshang countered by pointing out the true nature of reciprocal kindness, suggesting that Madam Wen Xiu’s own great-grandfather, Lord Qian'an, likely didn't expect repayment when he aided the Xuan family. She then shrewdly exposed the underlying reason for Empress Xuan's marriage to His Majesty: Madam Wen Xiu, as Lord Qian'an's biological daughter, was a first cousin to His Majesty and thus ineligible to marry him. Therefore, Cheng Shaoshang concluded, Empress Xuan owed Madam Wen Xiu nothing.

Madam Wen Xiu, furious, demanded Empress Xuan silence Cheng Shaoshang. Unfazed, Cheng Shaoshang continued, contrasting Ling Buyi's hard-earned achievements on the battlefield with Madam Wen Xiu's behavior of "holding on to the late Lord Qian'an's achievements" and "behaving wantonly" in Changqiu Palace.

Infuriated, Madam Wen Xiu threatened to teach Cheng Shaoshang the palace rules and the difference between nobility and commoners, and once again demanded the minting rights, cursing the Empress as "ungrateful" and one who would "leave me to my doom." Just as Madam Wen Xiu escalated her tirade, Emperor Wen and Ling Buyi arrived, having clearly overheard the commotion.

Emperor Wen immediately inquired about Empress Xuan's well-being and then directly questioned Madam Wen Xiu about her repeated emphasis on Lord Qian'an's kindness to the Empress. Madam Wen Xiu attempted to defend her words, claiming she was merely stating the fact that her father had fostered the orphaned Empress.

However, Emperor Wen swiftly countered, recounting the long history of mutual kindness between the Xuan and Wen families, asserting that any reciprocal "debt" had long been settled and questioning Madam Wen Xiu’s insistence on rehashing it. Madam Wen Xiu then shifted tactics, tearfully pleading for her younger brother, Junior Lord Qian'an, whose family had suffered greatly and was now reduced to a single heir after her father's sacrifice.

She insisted she was merely asking for the Empress's help, asking if that was wrong. Emperor Wen, however, was not swayed. He demanded to know why she had not presented her request through official channels via her Cavalry General in court. He accused her of deliberately cornering the Empress in Changqiu Palace, knowing the Empress would "tolerate and forgive" her. He then sternly condemned her disrespectful behavior, rule-breaking, and blatant lack of etiquette, demanding she acknowledge her crimes.

Empress Xuan, despite her own distress, tried to intercede, claiming she felt unwell and wished for the confrontation to end. But Emperor Wen, declaring "I won't let it end here," insisted that Madam Wen Xiu still had more to say. At this point, Ling Buyi stepped forward, offering Madam Wen Xiu a choice: either stay and face His Majesty's punishment or follow his orders and leave the palace.

As Ling Buyi escorted Madam Wen Xiu out of the palace, she continued her vitriolic attacks, labeling him an "eye-catching lapdog" of the Emperor and Empress and mocking Cheng Shaoshang for risking her life. Ling Buyi retorted that he and Cheng Shaoshang cherished their lives, unlike Madam Wen Xiu, who seemed to prioritize her brother's safety above all else, sarcastically remarking that the late Lord Qian'an certainly "didn't raise her in vain."

Madam Wen Xiu, in turn, called Ling Buyi "cold-hearted" and reiterated her long-held grievance: her father's death in the miasma, which she blamed on His Majesty's order to rescue Gu City and, by extension, Ling Buyi's uncle, General Huo. She even implied that if her father had lived, the throne might have gone to someone else.

Ling Buyi, aware of a deeper truth, gravely warned Madam Wen Xiu that "there's something fishy behind this incident" and urged her to "pull back before it's too late" and "don't fall into anyone's tricks." He pointed out that Marquis Yue and the Xuan family "never got along," suggesting that Marquis Yue's account of events "may not be telling the truth," and advised her against "listening to a one-sided story."

He also noted that His Majesty had already been more than generous to Junior Lord Qian'an, who owned a copper mine and was thus "definitely living in comfort." At the palace gates, the Third Princess appeared and openly mocked Madam Wen Xiu, expressing surprise that she had been "chased out" of Changqiu Palace. She then taunted Madam Wen Xiu about Junior Lord Qian'an's alleged poverty and incompetence for daring to request minting rights.

Madam Wen Xiu, defiant, told the Third Princess to mind her own business. Witnessing this, Ling Buyi, recalling Marquis Yue's long-standing animosity towards the Xuan family ever since His Majesty married Empress Xuan instead of Consort Yue, suspected foul play. He ordered the Liang brothers to "keep a close watch on Marquis Yue and continue with the investigation" into Lord Qian'an's death.

Episode 30 Recap

Ling Buyi carefully applied medicine to Cheng Shaoshang’s injured hand, which she had gotten while defending the Empress. He gently chided her for her reckless bravery, but Shaoshang insisted she had to protect the Empress. Ling Buyi clarified that the Empress, despite her noble status, was never truly in danger from Madam Wen Xiu in Changqiu Palace, as Madam Wen Xiu would have restrained herself. Shaoshang, unfamiliar with the intricate political games played by the nobility, felt mocked.

Ling Buyi advised her not to meddle in affairs that did not concern her. Shaoshang retorted, questioning why the Empress should be ignored just because she was powerful, especially when Ling Buyi and Wen Di were absent. Ling Buyi then turned the question back on her, asking why she, despite her own strength, believed she did not need his protection. Their conversation was cut short as their carriage arrived at the Cheng residence.

Before Shaoshang could leave, Ling Buyi stopped her. He recalled seeing the pure and breathtaking clouds on Mount Kunlun when he was fifteen, comparing their untainted beauty to the direct way Shaoshang had looked at him in Hua County. He confessed that he loved her unrestrained spirit when she spoke to him, finding joy in her fearless defiance of power and hardship. Ling Buyi emphasized that she was the one who had first captivated him.

He rarely gave his heart, but once he did, he never turned back. However, he warned that if she could not reciprocate his sincerity, he would rather withdraw his heart. Meanwhile, elsewhere, the Third Princess, elated, praised Marquis Yue for his "brilliant plan" to exploit Madam Wen Xiu. She gloated that Madam Wen Xiu, a fool concerned only with her brother's gain, had easily fallen for their bait to mint counterfeit coins.

Marquis Yue revealed he had bribed Madam Wen Xiu's agent to acquire the fake currency at a low price, which the Third Princess planned to use in her manor to alleviate her financial struggles. When the Third Princess expressed concern about being charged with treason, Marquis Yue dismissed it. He explained that the blame would fall on Shouchun, Junior Lord Qian'an, and Madam Wen Xiu, leaving them with only a minor charge of "misusing counterfeit money."

He did, however, warn her to be discreet, knowing her tendency to "show off" and her mother's aversion to bending rules, emphasizing the severe consequences for the Yue clan if their scheme were exposed. The Third Princess, however, blamed the Empress’s frugality for her need to resort to such measures.

As the shopkeeper, Mr. Tian, approached to recommend a new wine named "Blooming Flowers," the Third Princess, still bitter that Ling Buyi had chosen Cheng Shaoshang over her, vowed to make Shaoshang understand the harsh realities of palace life if she ever caught her alone. The next morning, Cheng Shaoshang expressed a hint of disappointment to her servant when Ling Buyi did not arrive to escort her.

She then jokingly remarked that she was finally "free" from her mother's constant nagging as she departed for Changqiu Palace alone. On her way, she encountered the Third Princess, who immediately seized the opportunity. The Third Princess harshly scolded Shaoshang for failing to properly greet her in the palace, despite Shaoshang being trained by the Empress. She forced Shaoshang to kneel and then attempted to have her caned for "contempt" and "violation of rites," declaring she deserved death.

Shaoshang protested that they had no quarrel, but the Third Princess, fueled by jealousy over Ling Buyi's choice, dismissed her, calling her a "wretch" who "did not know her place." She then ordered her guards to "slap her until Ling Buyi feels sorry for her." Shaoshang bravely reminded the princess of her family status and her mandate from the Empress to study in Changqiu Palace, accusing the princess of disrespecting the Emperor and Empress.

The Third Princess, however, smugly retorted that no one from Changqiu Palace was there to protect her today and continued to order her to be slapped. The Crown Princess intervened just in time, challenging the Third Princess by suggesting her actions would imply the Empress was negligent in her teaching. The Third Princess quickly backed down, claiming she was "joking" and released Shaoshang.

The Crown Princess then took Shaoshang to the Eastern Palace, comforting her and assuring her that the Empress and Ling Buyi would seek justice. Shaoshang, however, wished to handle matters herself and not rely solely on Ling Buyi or trouble the Empress. The Crown Princess revealed that the Third Princess's arrogance stemmed from her favored birth and upbringing by Marquis Yue, adding that her infatuation with Ling Buyi was driven by his looks and power, not genuine affection.

Shaoshang reflected on her own troubles since entering the palace for Ling Buyi. The Crown Princess then shared a poignant detail about Ling Buyi's difficult childhood in the palace: he was often bullied and once almost drowned but was saved by the Crown Prince. She recounted how Ling Buyi, never having shared a family meal, would gather servants and maids to eat with him and would often stand alone at Lantern Festivals, observing the family reunions from afar.

The Crown Prince approached Ling Buyi, stating he had heard about Madam Wen Xiu's actions and that General Wang Chun had asked him to apologize. He urged Ling Buyi not to let women's disputes create animosity between them, as both Ling Buyi and General Wang Chun were his trusted aides. Ling Buyi clarified that his criticisms of General Wang Chun were purely based on his incompetence and unsuitability for his position, not personal grudges.

He advised the Crown Prince, as the heir apparent, to prioritize state affairs over cronyism, also pointing out the Crown Princess's cousin, Sun Sheng, as another unsuitable person serving as the Eastern Palace's bodyguard leader due to his lack of skill and dissolute behavior. The Crown Prince dismissed these concerns, reasoning that they were merely "armchair jobs" for his wife's relatives.

He then tried to invite Ling Buyi to the upcoming banquet for General Huo's death anniversary, but Ling Buyi declined, stating he had other matters to attend to. The Crown Prince then asked if Ling Buyi would wait for Cheng Shaoshang, who was currently speaking with the Crown Princess. As the Crown Princess meticulously oversaw the preparation of gifts for ministers, even sacrificing a precious hairpin to bestow upon Madam Liang, Cheng Shaoshang observed her struggles.

Shaoshang expressed her growing understanding of the difficulties faced by royals' wives and declared that she could no longer remain a bystander. She stated that as Ling Buyi's future wife, she must understand him completely, including his past in the palace, and walk the same path he had. Ling Buyi and the Crown Prince then arrived. Ling Buyi, noticing Shaoshang's bruised wrist as he took her hand, quickly excused them both. Once alone, he pressed her about the injury.

Shaoshang, initially evasive and playfully upset about his earlier threat to withdraw his heart, soon softened after his reassuring words. Ling Buyi reiterated his warning for her to stay away from palace affairs and the Crown Princess, calling the Eastern Palace a dangerous place where true intentions were hidden behind power. Shaoshang challenged his protectiveness by reminding him that the Crown Prince had saved him from drowning, implying he should not be so wary of the Eastern Palace.

She argued that as his future wife, she must understand everything he had experienced in the palace to know him fully. Touched by her determination, Ling Buyi yielded, promising to protect her as she pursued her newfound resolve. Later, the Third Princess visited Consort Yue, presenting her with an ornate peony hairpin she claimed was crafted by the capital's best jeweler.

Consort Yue, however, saw through the lavish gift, expressing regret for entrusting her daughter's upbringing to her third aunt, which she believed had made the Third Princess vulgar and obsessed with worldly items, unlike the sensible Second Princess. She questioned the sudden influx of wealth, hinting at possible corruption involving her husband, Prince Consort Xuan, but the Third Princess claimed to be making modest money from a restaurant investment, unbeknownst to her husband.

Consort Yue warned her against disgracing the Yue clan with such "worldly possessions" and criticized her gaudy attire, likening her to a "wild chicken" or "country bumpkin." The Third Princess defended her lifestyle by complaining about the Changqiu Palace's stringent budget cuts, which she claimed forced her to mingle with merchants.

Consort Yue sternly reminded her that the Emperor and Empress's frugality was a deliberate example for the realm, and that the Third Princess, as an "uncultured person," had no right to mock them. Consort Yue then reminded the Third Princess that it was General Huo’s death anniversary and that there would be a banquet in Changqiu Palace, followed by the Emperor's personal attendance at a memorial in Fengxian Hall.

Consort Yue chastised the Third Princess for her inappropriate attire for such a solemn occasion, forcing her to change into a plain dress, sarcastically lamenting her lack of intelligence compared to her Second Sister. At the memorial banquet for General Huo, the Fifth Prince attempted to flirt with Cheng Shaoshang, who responded with sharp wit, embarrassing him. The Second Princess, known for her grace, extended a friendly invitation to Shaoshang to visit their residence.

Other royals offered their pleasantries, though the atmosphere remained subdued due to Wen Di's somber mood. The Emperor acknowledged General Huo's immense contributions to the nation's peace, which he and the late General had fought hard to achieve. Suddenly, Lady Ruyang arrived uninvited, immediately confronting Cheng Shaoshang and accusing her of forcing Princess Yuchang into monastic life. Ling Buyi firmly stepped in, stating their marriage was personally ordained by the Emperor and approved by both families.

Lady Ruyang then demanded why Shaoshang had not paid respects to Madam Chunyu. Ling Buyi retorted that his own mother was very much alive, and Madam Chunyu had no right to be considered Shaoshang's future mother-in-law, escalating the tension. At this critical moment, Consort Yue made a grand entrance, saluting the Emperor and Empress before moving directly to her seat at the head of the table, her presence instantly chilling the room.

Consort Yue asserted her rightful place, forcing a reluctant Lady Ruyang to move. She then used a feigned reprimand of her Third Princess to indirectly target Lady Ruyang, comparing her own strict parenting to Lady Ruyang's failure to discipline Princess Yuchang, who ended up seeking solace in a temple after her failed betrothal. Consort Yue then directly addressed Lady Ruyang, recalling how she only began to favor the Emperor after he gained wealth and power.

Consort Yue then recounted a past grievance: during a harsh winter, when the Emperor's elder sister was pregnant and weak, Lady Ruyang had refused to lend money for food and sustenance, forcing Wen Di to brave the snowy mountains to hunt. It was General Huo who ultimately came to their aid, providing resources and care. Consort Yue lamented that good people like General Huo died young, while others, like Lady Ruyang, were opportunistic.

Turning to Ling Buyi, Consort Yue firmly declared that both she and the Emperor wished for him to marry soon to continue the Huo lineage and offer sacrifices to his ancestors. She emphatically stated that no one had the right to interfere with his choice of bride, dismissing any criticism of Cheng Shaoshang as "foolish."

Episode 31 Recap

During a tense confrontation, Consort Yue addressed Ling Buyi, reminding him that with his uncle having died young, he was the sole heir of the Huo family. She expressed how both His Majesty and she wished for him to marry soon and have children, ensuring the continuation of the Huo family's legacy and preventing their ancestors from becoming wandering spirits. She flatly dismissed any criticism of his future wife as nonsense.

Lady Ruyang then interjected, suggesting that Cheng Shaoshang, being young, diminutive, and from an undistinguished family, was unsuitable for Ling Buyi, while touting her own granddaughter, Yuchang. Consort Yue sharply retorted that Yuchang could forget the marriage with a grandmother who bullied those whose elders had passed away. Emperor Wen then intervened, declaring that Ling Buyi had the freedom to marry anyone he desired, and no one should force him otherwise.

He sternly warned that anyone attempting to manipulate Ling Buyi's marriage would suffer a fate worse than death. Lady Ruyang, intimidated by the Emperor's authority, immediately softened her stance, claiming she only had Ling Buyi's best interests at heart and wished for Madam Chunyu to receive proper respect. Consort Yue, stating they were about to discuss private Huo family matters, dismissed all other princes and princesses, but instructed Ling Buyi and his future wife to remain.

During the exchange, Cheng Shaoshang glanced at Ling Buyi, noticing his expression remained perfectly calm and unreadable. Lady Ruyang then questioned why Consort Yue would defend Huo Junhua, who had once nearly killed her.

Consort Yue, while acknowledging her decades-long animosity with Huo Junhua—recalling incidents where Huo Junhua splashed her with hot soup, she retaliated with nails, and Huo Junhua even lured her into a bandit ambush—insisted that despite her history with Huo Junhua, Madam Chunyu was not a good person either.

Consort Yue then cautioned Lady Ruyang against getting embroiled in trouble by defending Madam Chunyu, further threatening to publicly expose Lady Ruyang's own past misdeeds if she continued to speak on Madam Chunyu's behalf, adding that next time, she would not dismiss the royal children. Empress Xuan then stepped in to defuse the escalating tension, remarking that she couldn't interject when they reminisced about the past.

She proposed that since the meal was over, they should all proceed to Fengxian Hall to honor the entire Huo family, an invitation Consort Yue readily accepted. At Fengxian Hall, Cheng Shaoshang was tasked with arranging the tributes. She was struck by General Huo's resemblance to Ling Buyi in his portrait. The Crown Princess arrived with fragrant incense balls, which Cheng Shaoshang accepted.

As they conversed, the Third Princess appeared, haughtily mocking Cheng Shaoshang's lack of decorum and fitness for overseeing the memorial, then insulted the Crown Princess's humble family, implying the Crown Prince disliked her because he couldn't forget someone from his past. Unable to tolerate the insults, Cheng Shaoshang deliberately spilled the tribute fruits, causing the Third Princess to trip and fall awkwardly.

After the Third Princess angrily departed, vowing revenge, Cheng Shaoshang expressed her bewilderment at the princess's vulgarity, like a newly rich merchant. The Crown Princess explained that the Third Princess was raised by Marquis Yue's merchant-born wife, which instilled in her an extravagant, competitive, and vengeful nature. The Crown Princess advised Cheng Shaoshang to avoid her, but Cheng Shaoshang defiantly declared that she, too, was vengeful, and they would see who could outdo the other.

Cheng Shaoshang then inquired about the "person in the past" the Third Princess had mentioned, but the Crown Princess chose not to elaborate, stating it was a painful memory best left unspoken. Emperor Wen, Empress Xuan, Consort Yue, and their children arrived. Ling Buyi solemnly knelt and bowed to General Huo's memorial tablet.

Emperor Wen, visibly moved, decreed that all Wen family descendants must forever remember that the empire's current glory was attained through the Huo family's sacrifice, and ordered everyone to offer incense to the entire Huo clan. When it was the Third Princess's turn, she maliciously blew incense powder towards Cheng Shaoshang. In retaliation, Cheng Shaoshang subtly entangled the Third Princess's robe accessories around a candelabra. As the Third Princess rose, she pulled down the candelabra, setting her outer garment ablaze.

Consort Yue ordered her attendants to remove the Third Princess's burning robe, but the princess vehemently resisted. Consort Yue immediately understood that her daughter was hiding extravagant inner garments. Emperor Wen was enraged, chastising the Third Princess for her disrespect during the solemn memorial and for her luxurious attire, which defied the imperial decree for thriftiness. He accused her of lacking gratitude for the nation's founders.

The Fifth Princess seized the opportunity to add to the Third Princess's woes, implying her excessive wealth came from illicit sources. The Third Princess claimed it was from a joint restaurant venture. However, the Third Prince stepped forward, presenting counterfeit coins circulating in his sister's fief and revealing that an investigation traced their origin to Shouchun, Junior Lord Qian'an's fief, thus implicating the Xuan family.

The Third Princess, eager to deflect blame, pointed fingers at Junior Lord Qian'an and the Xuan family. Empress Xuan remained silent. Disappointed, Consort Yue turned and departed. Emperor Wen ordered the Third Princess to be severely beaten and assigned Ling Buyi to investigate the counterfeit coin operation. The Third Princess was severely whipped, leaving her skin lacerated. In her chamber, Consort Yue continued composing music, seemingly unconcerned.

Marquis Yue, Consort Yue's brother, complained that Emperor Wen was biased towards Empress Xuan, noting that Consort Yue was Emperor Wen's true "first wife" yet Empress Xuan held the higher position. Consort Yue sharply retorted that if he thought the punishment was insufficient, she could ask the Emperor to beat the Third Princess again until her legs broke.

She then told the Third Princess that her stupidity and superficiality were to blame, expressing gratitude to Cheng Shaoshang and the Third Prince for exposing her daughter's misdeeds, which prevented greater disgrace to the Yue clan. Marquis Yue persisted, arguing that Consort Yue, who had been with Emperor Wen from the start and whose family provided the initial troops for the rebellion, was overlooked, while Empress Xuan, whose family's wealth and troops were utilized later, became Empress.

He questioned the fairness of Emperor Wen severely punishing the Third Princess while only revoking Junior Lord Qian'an's mine, implying favoritism towards Empress Xuan. Consort Yue sternly reminded him of her previous warning against discussing these matters. She explained that Empress Xuan had sacrificed all her wealth to help Emperor Wen secure the empire, and the Huo family had been completely annihilated, whereas their Yue family had at least survived.

She also pointed out that her co-equal status as Consort was unfair to the Empress and to the mentally unstable Huo Junhua. Consort Yue concluded that she had everything she desired and held no interest in the power Marquis Yue craved, warning him for the last time not to cause trouble using her name, or she would disregard their kinship. Ling Buyi went to Xinghua Courtyard to visit Huo Junhua, asking about her historical feud with Consort Yue.

Huo Junhua, lost in thought, suddenly recalled the horrific events of Gu City and her brother General Huo's tragic death, realizing with anguish that neither the Yue family army nor Lord Qian'an had come to their rescue. Outside, Ling Buyi's subordinates, the Liang brothers, discussed Cheng Shaoshang's shrewdness in exposing the Third Princess's lavishness, admiring her vengeful spirit.

They affirmed that Ling Buyi's strategy of subtly informing the Third Prince about the counterfeit coins had successfully provoked the prince into exposing his sister. They lamented that Emperor Wen chose to downplay the severity of the counterfeiting operation to avoid implicating the Third Princess and Marquis Yue, which would force him to dole out lenient punishments to all involved for the sake of fairness.

Ling Buyi acknowledged that he had repaid the late Lord Qian'an's kindness by ensuring his children escaped a death sentence. He noted that Emperor Wen still protected Marquis Yue despite his obvious involvement, concluding that they needed Marquis Yue to commit a more significant transgression.

The Liang brothers then presented an intercepted letter from Madam Wen Xiu to her son, Wang Long, instructing him to lead a bandit suppression campaign to restore the Qian'an family's reputation and secure funds for his uncle, Marquis Yue. Ling Buyi scorned Madam Wen Xiu as a fool for prioritizing trivial matters over investigating her own father's suspicious death.

He ordered his men to deliver her letter to Wang Long untouched, while also secretly alerting the bandits that Emperor Wen's forces were coming for a decisive victory. His intention was to have Wang Long captured, leading to his dismissal from office, which Ling Buyi believed was a better outcome than allowing such an incompetent official to commit greater, nation-threatening errors in the future. Emperor Wen announced his decision to entrust Cheng Shaoshang with organizing Empress Xuan's upcoming birthday banquet.

Despite Cheng Shaoshang's clumsy attempts at embroidery and her protests that she was too new to palace etiquette to handle such a grand event, Emperor Wen insisted, stating it was good practice for her future role as Ling Buyi's wife. Shortly after, the Crown Prince requested an urgent audience. Cheng Shaoshang and Empress Xuan withdrew and soon heard Emperor Wen's furious shouts from within the hall. Empress Xuan appeared deeply troubled.

Cheng Shaoshang tried to reassure her, praising the Crown Prince's benevolent nature and predicting he would become a kind and magnanimous emperor. Empress Xuan, however, disagreed, revealing that Emperor Wen was enraged because Wang Long had, without authorization, led troops to suppress bandits and was now trapped. The Crown Prince had attempted to conceal Wang Long's transgression, even suggesting deception to save him.

Ling Buyi had previously advised the Crown Prince that Wang Chun should retire to save his son, but the Crown Prince was unwilling. Ling Buyi had also cautioned the Crown Prince against favoritism and deceiving the Emperor, emphasizing that a Crown Prince must prioritize the welfare of the nation over personal relationships. Empress Xuan confessed that her son was weak, indecisive, and biased, just like her.

She lamented that while these qualities might be admirable in an ordinary person, they were utterly unsuitable for a Crown Prince. She wished he were merely an ordinary child, and she an ordinary mother. Later that night, Cheng Shaoshang sat alone in a long corridor. Xiao Yuanyi found her and chided her for not wearing a cloak. Cheng Shaoshang asked her mother if she had ever imagined what kind of person she would become before her birth.

She then shared Empress Xuan's wish for the Crown Prince to be an ordinary person, living a happy and safe life away from court intrigues, and asked if Xiao Yuanyi had harbored similar hopes for her. Xiao Yuanyi admitted that she had. Cheng Shaoshang, misinterpreting her mother's sentiment, commented that she knew her mother disliked useless people and preferred someone obedient like Cheng Yang, feeling that she had disappointed her. She then excused herself to go to bed.

Cheng Shi attempted to comfort his distressed wife. Xiao Yuanyi explained that Cheng Shaoshang, having heard Empress Xuan's words, was for the first time empathizing with the burdens of parenthood, though it was for the Empress, not for them. Cheng Shi remarked that it was good for Cheng Shaoshang to learn from others and understand parental struggles, rather than remaining ignorant her whole life. Xiao Yuanyi seemed a little jealous but brushed it off. Cheng Shi then playfully asked if she would make him sleep outside.

Episode 32 Recap

As officials in the court heard that Wen Di had reprimanded the Crown Prince, they observed the Third Prince's rising prominence. Consequently, many began to align themselves with the Yue clan, abandoning their former loyalties. Though Little Yue Hou disdained these opportunists, he recognized their usefulness in shaping public opinion. He and his retainers secretly discussed methods to depose the Crown Prince. During this time, the Fifth Princess arrived at a restaurant with several male companions.

Little Yue Hou, feigning concern, warned her that as a princess, she should be careful with her conduct, as such public displays would negatively impact the Crown Prince and Empress. The Fifth Princess arrogantly dismissed his words, declaring that the empire belonged to the Wen family, not the Yue family, and only her mother's clan, the Xuan family, was on par with them.

After she departed, Little Yue Hou subtly instructed the landlord, Mr. Tian, to spread stories about his "unrestrained future daughter-in-law" who "likes handsome men" and connect it with current court rumors, ensuring the Fifth Princess's inappropriate behavior would be widely known. The scandalous rumors about the Fifth Princess quickly spread. Meanwhile, Cheng Shaoshang was consulting with the Crown Princess about the Empress's upcoming birthday banquet.

Cheng Shaoshang expressed her frustration with the multitude of demanding tasks, finding it even more challenging than governing a county. The Crown Princess gently explained that Wen Di wanted Cheng Shaoshang to become familiar with palace affairs. The Crown Princess then confided her own burdens, lamenting that her maternal clan criticized her for "forgetting her roots" when she couldn't fulfill their greedy ambitions. She also despaired over the political attacks on her husband for his leniency.

Cheng Shaoshang firmly stated her belief that valuing familial affection was not a flaw. Suddenly, the Fifth Princess burst in, demanding to see the Crown Prince and angrily lashing out at Cheng Shaoshang for being in the Eastern Palace. She confronted the Crown Prince, calling his maternal cousin, Wang Long, a "waste" and questioning if it was worth angering Wen Di for such a man.

When the Crown Prince defended his commitment to family, the Fifth Princess boasted that if she were male, the position would never have been his. Cheng Shaoshang interjected, reminding her that the Crown Prince's leniency was precisely what had saved her from being condemned for her previous refusals of marriage.

Unmoved, the Fifth Princess turned her anger towards the Crown Princess, cruelly suggesting that the Crown Prince had only married her out of pity, as everyone knew who he truly loved. Enraged, the Crown Prince ordered the Fifth Princess to leave and not return unless absolutely necessary, though he promised to prepare gifts for her marriage. Still defiant, the Fifth Princess stormed off to complain to the Empress. The ensuing argument left the Empress bedridden.

Her attendants expressed despair, but Cheng Shaoshang insisted that parents, even when they claim to want to be left alone, secretly yearn for their children's presence. Cheng Shaoshang entered the Empress's chambers, not to persuade her to eat, but to seek her help. She presented some cucumbers she had grown, asking the Empress to compare their taste to the expensive tributes from the Western Regions. The cucumbers were excessively salty, prompting the Empress to eat some porridge.

Cheng Shaoshang then proposed using her homegrown cucumbers as appetizers for the Empress's birthday banquet. When the Empress hesitated, citing the palace's new frugality, Cheng Shaoshang explained her method of cultivation and offered Ling Buyi's help in expanding production, making the rare vegetable accessible to all. The Empress, touched by Cheng Shaoshang's thoughtfulness, praised her as "caring and clever," lamenting her own perceived failure in raising her children.

Cheng Shaoshang shared her own feelings of inadequacy concerning her parents, and the Empress explained that parents compare their children to others not out of a lack of love, but to motivate them, emphasizing that a child's strength brings a parent peace. Meanwhile, watching them from outside, the Empress's lady-in-waiting, Luo Jitong, grew resentful of Cheng Shaoshang's good fortune. Outside Changqiu Palace, the Crown Prince stood, filled with remorse.

He blamed himself for disappointing Wen Di and causing his mother such sadness. Cheng Shaoshang found him and explained that the Empress's sorrow stemmed not from his failures as Crown Prince, but from her pain as a mother seeing him sad and criticized.

She advised him that while he could not plead for Wang Long as the Crown Prince, he could do so as a son for his maternal cousin, for there was no crime in acting out of familial affection. The Crown Prince, enlightened by her words, thanked her for her profound insight. That evening, Ling Buyi met with Cheng Shaoshang.

He gently told her that instead of acting on her own, she could trust him with her plans, especially when it came to making enemies. He promised to protect her but needed her to give him the chance. Cheng Shaoshang, however, was preoccupied with the day's events. She told him about the Empress's distress over the rumors of the Crown Prince being replaced and asked who was targeting the Crown Prince at the Yan Hui Pagoda.

His expression grew serious, and he reiterated his warning for her to stay away from Eastern Palace matters and court politics. Later, Wen Di observed the court officials' blatant ambition to replace the Crown Prince. The Crown Prince arrived, requesting to play chess. As they played, Wen Di reminisced about teaching his son chess when he was young and intentionally losing to make him happy.

The Crown Prince explained that he had learned from his father that caring for a family's feelings was more important than winning, and therefore, his decision to stand by his family was one he would never regret. Wen Di, understanding his son's heart, accepted his explanation. The next day in court, Wen Di defied the opposition of many officials. He praised the Crown Prince for his benevolence, loyalty, and filial piety.

Wen Di declared that the Crown Prince would henceforth command the three armies, entrusting him with the tiger seal. The discussion then turned to Wang Long's fate, prompting a heated debate. Wen Di firmly declared that Wang Long's actions of suppressing bandits had become reckless, leading to his demotion. He asserted that Wang Long's father, Wang Chun, was not at fault and would take command of his son's troops.

Ling Buyi was then ordered to lead the suppression of the bandits, and the Crown Prince was instructed to personally deploy the troops. Later, at the Eastern Palace, the Crown Prince attempted to give the tiger seal to Ling Buyi for safekeeping. Ling Buyi refused, stating that the tiger seal was a symbol of Wen Di's trust.

When he inquired how the Crown Prince had managed to persuade Wen Di to show leniency towards Wang Chun, the Crown Prince credited Cheng Shaoshang's advice. He affectionately called both Ling Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang his "lucky stars." Ling Buyi sought out Cheng Shaoshang and confronted her, accusing her of acting on her own despite his repeated warnings. He sternly asked if she was satisfied with the outcome for Wang Chun.

Cheng Shaoshang retorted that she had only intended to help the Empress and had no interest in Wang Chun's fate. Ling Buyi countered that her actions might inadvertently create more trouble. He then revealed the deeper political implications: by forgiving Wang Chun, Wen Di had effectively shifted the court's resentment onto the Empress and Crown Prince, further fueling those who coveted the Crown Prince's position.

He warned her that her seemingly well-intentioned actions could harm them and even embroil the Empress. Cheng Shaoshang admitted she had never considered such complex consequences. Feeling wronged, Cheng Shaoshang expressed her frustration that Ling Buyi never truly wanted her to understand his plans, always dismissing matters as "too complicated." She lamented that she could have married a simple man and lived a simple life, but it was he who had dragged her into this complicated world.

She recalled her initial hesitation about their engagement, yet even after deciding to be with him, he continued to insist that his world was too intricate for her. Ling Buyi insisted he only wanted to protect her. Cheng Shaoshang, however, compared his words to her mother's criticisms, suggesting they implied she was "not good enough." She admitted she didn't know how to satisfy him without changing her inherent nature—to act recklessly and follow her own heart.

She apologized for disappointing him. The conversation ended unhappily, with Ling Buyi stating he would return home alone. As Cheng Shaoshang walked back by herself, she reflected on Ling Buyi's words, finally realizing that her marriage to him was indeed proving to be very troublesome.

Episode 33 Recap

The Crown Prince spent a sleepless night, plagued by the thought of thieves attempting to steal the tiger seals. Though the seals were still present, his anxiety was immense. The Crown Princess noticed his distress as he was barefoot and without a robe, asking if he had heard strange noises.

The Crown Prince confessed to his unease, feeling the seals were like divine objects strangling him until he was out of breath and fearing that their loss would not only cost him his title but also implicate his Mother, the Empress. To calm his nerves, the Crown Princess suggested relocating the seals to Zigui Courtyard, where her cousin, Sun Sheng, a guard, could watch over them in a more secluded environment.

The Crown Prince agreed, intending to move them the next day. However, the tiger seals were lost during transit. Upon hearing this, Ling Buyi was furious, reminding the Crown Prince that he had repeatedly warned him about Sun Sheng's unreliability and the perils of appointing staff based on favoritism rather than merit. Acknowledging his profound mistake, the Crown Prince desperately sought Ling Buyi's help, as the army was poised to depart for a bandit suppression campaign, requiring the tiger seals.

Ling Buyi questioned whether he had consulted General Wang or Grand Tutor Lou. The Crown Prince revealed that General Wang had feigned illness, while Grand Tutor Lou had suggested blaming the Empress to mitigate the situation, advice the Crown Prince adamantly refused, unwilling to tarnish his noble Mother's reputation. Ling Buyi hinted that a solution might still exist. Meanwhile, the Crown Princess, eager to halt Ling Buyi's investigation and secure his aid, sent a message to Cheng Shaoshang.

Cheng Shaoshang was still annoyed with Ling Buyi, though her maid, Lianfang, noted that despite Ling Buyi's fearsome reputation, Cheng Shaoshang was uniquely bold enough to be upset with him. Before Cheng Shaoshang arrived at the Eastern Palace, the Crown Princess approached Ling Buyi, flattering him by highlighting his deep trust with His Majesty and then subtly conveying her and the Crown Prince's dire predicament.

Ling Buyi, seeing through her pretense, suggested that the Crown Princess confess to Emperor Wen, taking full responsibility and portraying the Crown Prince as merely an unfortunate bystander. The Crown Princess stammered, calling such an act "deceiving His Majesty" and showing clear reluctance despite her earlier vows of self-sacrifice. Just then, Cheng Shaoshang, having overheard the conversation from outside, mistakenly believed Ling Buyi was forcing the Crown Princess to take the blame.

She burst in, criticizing the notion of men pushing responsibility onto women. Ling Buyi, struggling to maintain his composure, tried to dismiss her, stating the discussions were not for her ears. The Crown Princess intervened, confirming she had invited Cheng Shaoshang, and then escorted her outside. There, she continued her manipulative charade, expressing deep concern for the Crown Prince's repeated mistakes and the potential implications for the Empress.

She even went as far as implying she would sacrifice her position or life, subtly mentioning that the Crown Prince had another "person in his heart" and she would step aside for their happiness. Ling Buyi left the Eastern Palace alone. Cheng Shaoshang, still upset, initially decided to return to Cheng Manor by herself. However, Ling Buyi appeared, stopping her and pulling her into an embrace.

He apologized for his harsh tone, explaining that the tiger seal crisis was extremely grave, and he wanted to keep her out of harm's way, promising to handle everything. Cheng Shaoshang, mollified, decided to head to Changqiu Palace instead. Ling Buyi, ever watchful, then instructed his guards to discreetly monitor the Eastern Palace, especially the Crown Princess, and report any unusual activities. At Changqiu Palace, Cheng Shaoshang found the Empress reminiscing with an old wet nurse.

The Empress clutched the Crown Prince's infant clothes, recalling his difficult birth and the Emperor's intense worry. She spoke of the Crown Prince's filial nature and how the Emperor had granted him the tiger seals to secure his position. The Empress then expressed her profound fear for her son's safety, knowing the tragic fates—suicide or execution—that befell deposed Crown Princes. She admitted her maternal selfishness, stating that if anything happened to her child, her life would be over.

Deeply moved by the Empress's words and understanding the perilous situation, Cheng Shaoshang resolved to help the Crown Prince by attempting to forge a replica of the tiger seal. On the day of the army's departure, Emperor Wen Di presided over the ceremony. The Crown Prince, before a gathering of civil and military officials, presented the tiger seal to General Wan Songbai. Suddenly, Marquis Yue interjected, questioning the seal's authenticity and demanding an immediate verification.

He specifically cited that genuine tiger seals contained magnets allowing them to merge. Cheng Shaoshang, who had crafted a visually identical replica but was unaware of the magnetic properties, was filled with dread. To her immense relief and surprise, Ling Buyi stepped forward, confidently stating that the truth would be revealed with a single merge. He then flawlessly brought the two halves of the seal together, silencing Marquis Yue's doubts.

Earlier, foreseeing Cheng Shaoshang's intention to create a counterfeit and understanding the severe charge of deceiving the Emperor that would ensue if exposed, Ling Buyi had already taken decisive action. He had dispatched his subordinate, Qi, to retrieve the Huo clan's tiger seals.

He explained that Marquis Yue had bribed Sun Sheng to steal the original seals, and while finding them would take time, only the Huo clan's seals, forged by the same master and nearly identical, could prevent Cheng Shaoshang from being exposed. Despite his subordinates' protests about sacrificing the last relic of the Huo clan, a gift from His Majesty to General Huo, Ling Buyi firmly declared that he would protect Cheng Shaoshang, no matter the cost.

Meanwhile, discussions about marriage permeated the air. Marquis Ban was pursuing Cheng Yang, while Wan Qiqi and Cheng Song's relationship was quickly solidifying, with Cheng Song agreeing to marry into the Wan family. Cheng Yang expressed her own anxieties about marriage, feeling overwhelmed by the decision-making process and admitting she lacked strong opinions, resigned to follow her aunt's guidance even if it meant marrying Marquis Ban.

Wan Qiqi, however, vehemently argued for a woman's control over her destiny, playfully boasting about how Cheng Song was entirely submissive to her. Noticing Cheng Shaoshang's troubled demeanor, Wan Qiqi directly confronted her about her true feelings for Ling Buyi. Cheng Shaoshang admitted she was unsure, stating that "most of the time," she was happy with him and believed she liked him, but he also often angered her.

Wan Qiqi urged her to list their interactions and weigh the good against the bad. Cheng Shaoshang recounted specific instances: Ling Buyi's help at Ruyang Manor (good), offset by his threat with the bridge (bad); his rescues in Hua County and assistance at Mount Tugao (good), countered by his orchestrating the imperial marriage and restricting her habits (bad).

Wan Qiqi sharply rebutted, asserting that Cheng Shaoshang's complaints were trivial compared to Ling Buyi risking his life and sustaining injuries for her, emphasizing that one act of saving her life far outweighed all her grievances. Cheng Yang supported this, stating that someone who risks their life to save and protect you is truly worthy of love, and sincerity should be reciprocated. This conversation sparked a profound realization within Cheng Shaoshang.

Moved by this clarity, Cheng Shaoshang impulsively rushed out, choosing a horse for speed over a carriage, to find Ling Buyi. To her deep emotion, he was already waiting outside her gate. He confessed that he often waited for her, secretly escorting her home and guarding her door when she wasn't at Changqiu Palace. Ling Buyi began to thank her for her involvement in the tiger seal matter, but Cheng Shaoshang assured him she knew the truth.

He told her he didn't want her to feel compelled to compromise or be reluctant in their relationship. Cheng Shaoshang then expressed her gratitude for his repeated rescues, admitting she couldn't conform to traditional wifely roles like her mother or accept fate like Cheng Yang. She realized that while she once felt "she" had to compromise for him, it had always been "he" who made concessions.

Ling Buyi, touched, apologized for attempting to restrain her, affirming that he loved her exactly for her uninhibited and brave spirit, and urged her to be herself in his presence. Cheng Shaoshang then openly declared her feelings with two promises: first, she would treat him exceptionally well, even to the point of annoyance; and second, she would cherish and love him forever, until they were old and their hair turned gray, always remembering his kindness.

Overjoyed, Ling Buyi eagerly asked if they could marry sooner. He then took her to Xinghua Courtyard to introduce her to his mother, Huo Junhua. Before entering, he cautioned Cheng Shaoshang not to speak or react hastily to anything she might witness, promising a full explanation later. Inside, Huo Junhua, in a state of confused delusion, mistook Ling Buyi for a relative seeking handouts and Cheng Shaoshang as his "new wife" joining him in "freeloading."

Her mood quickly escalated as she mourned her deceased brother and his family, then turned on Ling Buyi, mistaking him for his father, Ling Yi, accusing him of betrayal and ordering him to die. When Huo Junhua lunged at Cheng Shaoshang, Ling Buyi instinctively shielded her, enduring a bite to his hand that bled profusely. An attendant swiftly intervened to calm Huo Junhua, while urging Ling Buyi to tend to his injury.

Episode 34 Recap

Cheng Shaoshang was bandaging Ling Buyi's hand under an apricot tree, expressing her concern for him. Ling Buyi assured her it no longer hurt and confessed that he wanted her to meet his mother, Huo Junhua, before their engagement, though future frequent meetings wouldn't be necessary. Cheng Shaoshang calmly stated she wasn't afraid, recognizing that Ling Buyi’s mother was simply ill and not at fault, instead blaming those who ruined Huo Junhua's life.

Ling Buyi reflected on how people deemed him cruel and unfilial for his coldness towards Marquis Chengyang, Ling Yi. Cheng Shaoshang countered that true filial piety stems from parental kindness, and if parents fail in their duties, children shouldn't be reproached for being unfilial. She affirmed that Ling Buyi was not a cruel person. She also comforted him about his mother, noting that General Cui You seemed genuinely caring towards Madam Huo and would surely look after her well.

Ling Buyi explained that General Cui You had loved his mother since youth and initially refused to marry. He was later forced into marriage by his family, but his wife tragically died in childbirth. Soon after, Huo Junhua divorced Ling Yi, and General Cui You swore never to remarry, remaining a widower for Huo Junhua to this day. Cheng Shaoshang was moved by such profound affection, deeming it invaluable.

Ling Buyi then confessed his feelings for Cheng Shaoshang were just as sincere. Cheng Shaoshang offered to visit Huo Junhua frequently in his stead. Ling Buyi welcomed this, stating that once they were married, Cheng Shaoshang would be the lady of the house and could come and go as she pleased. Cheng Shaoshang then suggested that Ling Buyi didn't need to pick her up early anymore, as it was too arduous for him.

When he asked how he could see her more if he missed her, she proposed meeting at the palace gates and entering together. Ling Buyi noted this would mean she'd have to wake up half an hour earlier, but she dismissed it playfully. She clarified that if she focused on her palace duties, she couldn't focus on him, prompting Ling Buyi to choose to have her focus on him instead.

She also suggested they could have dinner at Changqiu Palace and walk home, or eat at home if he wasn't busy. Ling Buyi, eager to marry, wished for time to pass faster. He then jokingly suggested they hold the engagement banquet the next day, which Cheng Shaoshang enthusiastically agreed to before he revealed he was teasing. He explained that three days was the absolute earliest, and even that was rushed.

Cheng Shaoshang, recalling her previous broken engagement with Lou Yao, hinted that even an engagement didn't guarantee peace of mind. Ling Buyi, with a touch of jealousy, immediately kissed her, warning her that he would continue to use that method to silence her if she spoke such things he disliked. Xiao Yuanyi expressed concern that the engagement banquet in three days was too hasty.

Cheng Shaoshang explained that Ling Buyi had promised to handle all the arrangements and only needed a guest list from the Cheng family. Just then, Madam Chunyu arrived, presumably to discuss the engagement. Xiao Yuanyi remarked on Madam Chunyu's sudden visit, given her previous feigned illness to avoid sending betrothal gifts. Cheng Shaoshang, already knowing Madam Chunyu's character, was not pleased.

When Madam Chunyu presented two beautiful servants as gifts, Cheng Shaoshang retorted sharply, questioning why Madam Chunyu would send concubines when she herself hadn't even touched Ling Buyi’s bed. She criticized Madam Chunyu for doing vulgar things but being offended by vulgar words. Xiao Yuanyi supported Cheng Shaoshang, emphasizing that the Cheng family stood with Ling Buyi. Madam Chunyu, frustrated, threatened to cancel the engagement banquet and prevent Cheng Shaoshang from marrying into the Ling family, then stormed off.

Xiao Yuanyi questioned Cheng Shaoshang’s actions, but Cheng Shaoshang explained Huo Junhua’s plight, expressing genuine sympathy for her and Ling Buyi, adding that she despised those who steal others' love. She remained confident that when the engagement day arrived, Madam Chunyu would be the one unable to enter the gates. On the day of the engagement, guests began to arrive at the Cheng residence.

Yuan Shen also came, ostensibly to "rescue his student from a life of suffering" as he believed marriage was ruinous. Meanwhile, Madam Chunyu, having gone to Ling Buyi's residence only to find no banquet there, was informed that all guests to the Cheng residence needed an invitation, which she lacked. She became indignant, threatening that without her, the engagement could not proceed.

As the banquet was underway, Ling Buyi sent a message to Cheng Shaoshang, telling her not to worry, to speak her mind, and that he would handle everything. Soon after, Lady Ruyang and Madam Chunyu forcefully arrived with their guards, having no invitations. Lady Ruyang immediately demanded Cheng Shaoshang kneel, accusing her of being untalented, unvirtuous, disloyal, and unfilial. Xiao Yuanyi intervened, attempting to welcome Lady Ruyang but reiterating that without an invitation, she couldn't be formally seated.

Lady Ruyang then berated Cheng Shaoshang for disrespecting elders and not inviting her future mother-in-law, Madam Chunyu, before ordering her servants to seize and discipline Cheng Shaoshang. Xiao Yuanyi fiercely protected her daughter, slapping Lady Ruyang's servant and asserting her family's status. Cheng Shaoshang continued to provoke Madam Chunyu, reminding everyone of Madam Chunyu’s past betrayal of Huo Junhua by climbing into her cousin's bed. Lady Ruyang, outraged, threatened further punishment, but Empress Xuan unexpectedly arrived.

Empress Xuan, after exchanging greetings, requested to speak privately with Lady Ruyang, Madam Chunyu, and Cheng Shaoshang in a quieter part of the residence. As they moved, onlookers gossiped about Ling Buyi choosing the "rude" Cheng Shaoshang over Princess Yuchang. Yuan Shen, disgusted by their behavior, chastised them for gossiping while enjoying the Cheng family's hospitality, causing them to retreat awkwardly.

In the private room, Lady Ruyang continued to accuse Cheng Shaoshang of disrespect and unfilial conduct for not inviting Madam Chunyu. Empress Xuan, despite her gentle nature, asserted that Cheng Shaoshang had been kind and respectful while serving her. Lady Ruyang dismissed Empress Xuan’s opinion, criticizing her lack of assertiveness, and further escalated the situation, causing Ling Buyi, Wen Di, Consort Yue, and Lord Ruyang to suddenly appear.

Consort Yue immediately took charge, sarcastically thanking Lady Ruyang for mentioning her so often. Lady Ruyang continued to complain, calling Cheng Shaoshang's words a disgrace to the royal family. Cheng Shaoshang retorted, pointing out Lady Ruyang's hypocrisy for previously dismissing the matter as trivial. When Lady Ruyang questioned the validity of Cheng Shaoshang's word over Madam Chunyu's, Cheng Shaoshang argued that unlike Madam Chunyu, who schemed her way into her position, she had followed proper conduct.

Therefore, Cheng Shaoshang declared, her own oath was trustworthy while Madam Chunyu’s was not. Madam Chunyu theatrically threatened suicide if not vindicated. Consort Yue then recounted Ling Yi’s cruel abandonment of his wife and son, detailing how Huo Junhua had supported him wholeheartedly, only for him to engage in a clandestine relationship with Madam Chunyu while Huo Junhua and Ling Buyi were struggling for survival. She highlighted Huo Junhua's selflessness as a mother, despite her flaws.

Consort Yue concluded by declaring that Madam Chunyu was banned from entering the palace without a summons, stating that seeing her sickened her. Lady Ruyang, still defiant, claimed Madam Chunyu was her savior and that humiliating her was humiliating herself. She threatened to create a scandal by announcing to the assembled guests how the Emperor treated his aunt. Lord Ruyang, exasperated by his wife's antics, desperately asked Wen Di for a divorce.

Wen Di, reminded by Consort Yue and Empress Xuan of the potential damage to the promotion of Confucianism if a divorce was granted, decided on a compromise. He declared Lady Ruyang to be "old and senile, prone to erratic behavior," and ordered her to a temple, Sancai Temple, for "rest and recuperation," with Ling Buyi ensuring she was well cared for and undisturbed by outsiders.

He then ordered Madam Chunyu to be confined to her residence to care for Ling Yi, prohibiting her from stepping outside their doors. With Lady Ruyang and Madam Chunyu led away in disgrace, Lord Ruyang felt a wave of relief, declaring it a great day and offering fine wines he had brought. Wen Di, pleased, agreed to celebrate without restraint. As everyone else left, Cheng Shaoshang and Ling Buyi shared a loving gaze, their unspoken feelings clear.

Episode 35 Recap

Guests were already seated at the banquet when Yuan Shen spoke ill of others behind their backs, a conversation Cheng Shaoshang overheard clearly. Yuan Shen criticized Cheng Shaoshang's poor judgment in choosing a husband, but Cheng Shaoshang confidently retorted that Yuan Shen was simply jealous of her continuous good fortune while he remained alone. This left Yuan Shen speechless. General Wan Songbai returned with a victory, having successfully eradicated the thieves.

His investigation also revealed that Wang Long's unauthorized departure from his post was due to a military order from his father, Wang Chun. Xiao Yuehou and the Crown Prince each presented their arguments regarding the matter. Official Ji of the Ministry of Justice suggested his department handle the case and introduced the new Attendant Gentleman, Yuan Shen, to Wen Di. As Yuan Shen prepared to accept the task, Ling Buyi unexpectedly presented evidence he had already uncovered.

He revealed that Madam Wen Xiu, in an effort to support Junior Lord Qian'an in Shouchun, had deliberately forged a military order, leading Wang Chun to take desperate measures. Enraged, Wen Di ordered Madam Wen Xiu's title revoked and commanded her to take her own life with white silk. Ling Buyi argued that Wang Chun's negligence in allowing his wife and son to act foolishly meant he was no longer fit for court.

The Crown Prince attempted to plead for Wang Chun, but Yuan Shen and the Third Prince quickly agreed that severe punishment was warranted. Ultimately, Wen Di disregarded the Crown Prince's pleas and decided to demote Wang Chun and his son to commoners, confiscating all their property. After the court assembly concluded, various officials harbored their own thoughts. Cheng Shaoshang sent a servant to deliver a bowl of warm soup to Ling Buyi.

Official Ji remarked that Ling Buyi was indeed fortunate, while Yuan Shen appeared displeased, commenting that even spirited women become cloyingly sentimental and vulgar after engagement. Meanwhile, Wang Ling knelt outside Changqiu Palace, desperately begging Empress Xuan for help. The royal attendant tried to dismiss her, saying the Empress was unwell, but Wang Ling accused the servants of being opportunistic.

Cheng Shaoshang stepped in just as the Fifth Princess arrived, saving Wang Ling from potential torment by redirecting the Fifth Princess. Cheng Shaoshang then sternly warned Wang Ling to keep silent if she wished to save her own life, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Later, Cheng Shaoshang prepared Shouchun dishes for Wen Di, subtly mentioning Old Lord Qian'an. This stirred Wen Di's memories of the past, making him more amenable to Wang Ling's plight.

He recounted that Old Lord Qian'an had died saving General Huo, a great merit, which was why Wen Di had repeatedly pardoned Madam Wen Xiu. Cheng Shaoshang further recalled Empress Xuan's deep connection to Madam Wen Xiu, which saddened Wen Di. He eventually agreed to spare Madam Wen Xiu's life, commuting her sentence to lifelong confinement. Wang Ling visited her mother, Madam Wen Xiu, hoping for some sign of repentance.

However, Madam Wen Xiu remained unyielding, clinging to the delusion that Junior Lord Qian'an was their true support, even at the cost of the entire Wang clan's lives. This interaction filled Wang Ling with sorrow and utter disappointment in her mother. Before leaving, Wang Ling revealed that Junior Lord Qian'an had pushed all the blame onto Madam Wen Xiu and had no intention of saving her.

She also highlighted the bitter irony that Empress Xuan, whom Madam Wen Xiu cursed daily, had become her savior. As Empress Xuan's birthday banquet approached, the Fifth Princess sought to use the occasion to her advantage, aiming to secure funds for her household and retainers. Empress Xuan, well aware of the Fifth Princess's intentions, decided to entrust the banquet preparations to Cheng Shaoshang.

The Fifth Princess was displeased, arguing that Cheng Shaoshang, being from a humble background and having never attended a royal birthday banquet, could not possibly know how to manage such an event. Just then, a fragrant aroma wafted from Cheng Shaoshang's room. Empress Xuan and the Fifth Princess discovered Cheng Shaoshang making a special sugar syrup from sugarcane to prepare sweet treats for the Empress. Empress Xuan praised the treats highly.

Wen Di entered with Ling Buyi, remarking playfully that with Cheng Shaoshang there to bring joy to the Empress, he wouldn't need to visit Changqiu Palace as frequently. Cheng Shaoshang shared the sweets with Wen Di and Ling Buyi, pointedly ignoring the Fifth Princess. Wen Di mused that such a method of sugar production could not be replicated nationwide, as delicious luxuries were difficult to popularize without vast resources.

Cheng Shaoshang explained that the nation's priorities lay in grain, iron, and horses, and assured Wen Di that the expenses for her treats came entirely from her own pocket, not the palace's budget. Pleased by this, Wen Di immediately awarded Ling Buyi a fief of two hundred households. Empress Xuan, considering Lady Luo Jitong's impending marriage to the Northwest, suggested that Cheng Shaoshang take over the management of harem affairs.

Wen Di readily agreed, despite the Fifth Princess's repeated attempts to interject. Cheng Shaoshang felt a pang of disappointment, unable to comprehend why Ling Buyi received the reward when she had done all the work. Cheng Shaoshang's growing prominence fueled the Fifth Princess's jealousy. While leaving the palace, she encountered Luo Jitong and deliberately tried to stir up trouble, claiming that Cheng Shaoshang had stolen Empress Xuan's favor, which was why Luo Jitong couldn't marry Ling Buyi.

Although Luo Jitong pretended indifference after the Fifth Princess left, her heart was clearly troubled. That night, Cheng Shaoshang studied abacus in the palace, struggling to focus. She eventually confided in Empress Xuan, expressing her feelings of being overshadowed as Ling Buyi's fiancée. Empress Xuan acknowledged Cheng Shaoshang's past independence but reminded her that in the long river of history, many generals and strategists served their emperors silently yet still achieved lasting fame.

Inspired, Cheng Shaoshang finally understood that a married couple is one entity. If the husband is the scorching sun, illuminating vast distances, then the wife can be the brilliant galaxy of stars. The sun, moon, and stars are not inherently superior or inferior; they are all indispensable and coexist to create this world. As Cheng Shaoshang stayed longer in the palace to learn etiquette, her visits to the Cheng manor became increasingly rare.

Although Xiao Yuanyi did not voice her concerns, she worried deeply. Now, Cheng Shaoshang was to reside in Changqiu Palace until the birthday banquet concluded. To ensure Cheng Shaoshang's comfort, Ling Buyi personally went to the Cheng manor to collect her daily necessities. However, upon entering Cheng Shaoshang's room, the entire family found it completely empty, causing them to exclaim at the extent of Ling Buyi's thoroughness.

Episode 36 Recap

Cheng Shaoshang found herself meticulously organizing Empress Xuan’s birthday banquet, a task she diligently managed to Emperor Wen Di’s satisfaction. However, she worried that such an extravagant celebration contradicted Wen Di’s recent push for frugality. Cheng Shaoshang advised Empress Xuan to approach Wen Di as a loving wife, not a subject, suggesting she frame her concerns with a gentle voice and adoring gaze, emphasizing that a couple should be equals, and a wife shouldn't feast while her husband lives simply.

Empress Xuan, though initially flustered by the unconventional advice, was amused and teased Cheng Shaoshang about the numerous items Ling Buyi had moved from her home, making her courtyard in the palace resemble her former residence. Cheng Shaoshang admitted these items made her homesick and expressed a desire to return home after the banquet, which Empress Xuan dismissed, believing Cheng Shaoshang simply disliked the palace's restrictions.

The Fifth Princess arrived at Changqiu Palace, declaring her intention to perform a new dance at the banquet, which she had practiced extensively to show her filial piety. Empress Xuan's earlier amusement faded as she sternly questioned the Fifth Princess about rumors of her acquiring ten thousand mus of land in Hongnong County for a private estate.

The Fifth Princess defended her actions, claiming she planned to develop the desolate land for the benefit of homeless citizens, hoping to demonstrate her capability to her parents. Empress Xuan was unimpressed, stating that the development of land was a matter for ministers, not a princess. The Fifth Princess then expressed her resentment, accusing her mother of favoring Ling Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang.

She pointed out how Empress Xuan indulged Cheng Shaoshang’s various activities, like making desserts and growing vegetables, while rebuking her own efforts. Empress Xuan clarified that Cheng Shaoshang’s endeavors were for useful purposes, unlike the Fifth Princess’s selfish desires. Tired of the confrontation, Empress Xuan dismissed the Fifth Princess and her retinue, instructing Cheng Shaoshang to house them in Consort Yue's Yongle Palace, as their presence was an "eyesore."

The Fifth Princess, recalling that Cheng Shaoshang now occupied her former residence, initially scoffed but then accepted the arrangement, not wanting to appear petty to her mother. As Cheng Shaoshang led the Fifth Princess and her entourage through the palace gardens, Lady Zuo, at the Fifth Princess's silent instigation, deliberately pushed Cheng Shaoshang into a pond. The accompanying women not only failed to help but began mocking her and throwing stones.

Luo Jitong cautiously warned the Fifth Princess that her actions could result in a death, but the Fifth Princess callously dismissed the concern, stating that one life was insignificant. When Cheng Shaoshang tried to swim to shore, the women threw snakes into the water, causing her to be bitten, though thankfully not by a venomous snake. Exhausted, Cheng Shaoshang finally dragged herself out. The Fifth Prince, who had been hiding nearby, then revealed himself.

The Fifth Princess, realizing he was a witness, threatened him before leaving with her group. She then intimidated Luo Jitong, reminding her of her upcoming marriage and the potential consequences of defying a princess, securing Luo Jitong's silence. The Fifth Princess, after dismissing the Fifth Prince's pleas that he saw nothing, remarked he was merely "the bad apple from a palace maid" and was well-suited for Cheng Shaoshang. Later that evening, Ling Buyi found Cheng Shaoshang, bringing her fresh clothes.

He noticed her wet garments and inquired about her whereabouts. Unaware of the day’s traumatic events, he spoke of his longing for her, expressing how difficult it had been to see her since she moved into the palace. He praised her, recounting how ministers envied him and how even Wen Di lauded her intelligence and her impeccable management of Changqiu Palace.

He explained that Wen Di entrusted her with the banquet not merely because she was his fiancée, but because she alone could organize an event truly meaningful to Empress Xuan. As he spoke, he observed her silent, turned-away sobs. His smile vanished, and he embraced her tightly, offering comfort. Cheng Shaoshang, overwhelmed, wept in his arms before finally calming down and falsely claiming she was merely homesick.

Ling Buyi, sensing there was more to her distress, suggested teaching her pressure points and self-defense moves. During a playful demonstration, he pinned her to the bed and gently pressed her to reveal what had truly happened. Confused and deeply moved, Cheng Shaoshang eventually asked him to promise her something, to which he readily agreed, vowing to fulfill any request concerning her. Days later, Empress Xuan’s birthday banquet commenced.

Though various princes and princesses presented their gifts, Cheng Shaoshang and Ling Buyi’s contributions stood out. Cheng Shaoshang’s “High Mountain and Flowing Water” display, symbolizing longevity and prosperity, delighted both Wen Di and Empress Xuan. Adding to the surprise, Ling Buyi, who usually claimed to be rusty, took to the stage to play the zither, a performance Wen Di noted he only seemed willing to give for Cheng Shaoshang.

The Third Prince presented a map revealing newly discovered iron ore mines in his fief, a valuable gift that pleased Wen Di. The Crown Prince offered a pair of jade qilin from the Western Regions, wishing Empress Xuan a long life. However, the Crown Princess inadvertently created an awkward moment by emphasizing the costly price of the qilin.

Cheng Shaoshang cleverly intervened, diverting attention by praising the Crown Prince’s other thoughtful contributions: fruit wines brewed from Western Region seeds and dishes cooked with walnut oil, both presented as resourceful and frugal choices in line with Wen Di's ideals. This saved the Crown Prince from further embarrassment and earned him praise from Wen Di. As the Crown Prince returned to his seat, his gaze lingered on Qu Lingjun, his former beloved, who was now married.

This pained the Crown Princess. Meanwhile, Wen Di observed Cheng Shaoshang and Ling Buyi sweetly sharing a wine cup, a sight that brought a smile to his face and Empress Xuan’s. During the feast, the Fifth Princess’s much-anticipated dance ended in a small mishap. To lift the spirits, Cheng Shaoshang and Ling Buyi together presented an old keepsake: a poem personally inscribed by Grand Duke Xuan, Empress Xuan's late father.

Seeing her father’s rarely-seen calligraphy brought tears to Empress Xuan’s eyes, who expressed her deep gratitude, remarking that thoughtful gifts were far more valuable than expensive ones. Wen Di commended their sincerity. Cheng Shaoshang then noticed Ling Buyi’s fingers were injured, likely from practicing the zither. Feeling a surge of guilt and affection, she leaned over and kissed him on the cheek, right in front of the entire assembly.

The entire hall fell silent in shock, while Yuan Shen and Luo Jitong looked visibly displeased. Feeling shy, Cheng Shaoshang quickly left the main hall and sought fresh air by Jingxin Lake in the back garden. The Fifth Princess, ever scheming, seized the opportunity. She instructed her maid to lure the already inebriated Fifth Prince to the lake. Upon seeing Cheng Shaoshang, the Fifth Prince began drunkenly flirting with her, reciting a romantic poem and praising her beauty.

Annoyed, Cheng Shaoshang, after a brief exchange, pulled him into the lake. He panicked, screaming for help and accusing her of attempted murder, as he couldn’t swim. Cheng Shaoshang, however, pretended to struggle to rescue him with a bamboo stick, deliberately making it difficult and feigning exhaustion.

Once he was out of the water, he angrily called her a "witch" and compared her to the "evil" Ling Buyi, venting his long-held resentment towards Ling Buyi, whom he described as cunning, petty, villainous, and scheming. Cheng Shaoshang, in turn, defended Ling Buyi and confronted the Fifth Prince about his inappropriate behavior. Despite his faults, she acknowledged his unique perspective and passion for exotic tales, a love unappreciated by his father.

Recognizing a shared sense of being misunderstood, Cheng Shaoshang extended her hand in friendship, which the Fifth Prince gratefully accepted, forming an unlikely bond. Across the palace, Luo Jitong approached Ling Buyi, offering him a toast and lamenting her impending marriage to the Northwest and the uncertainty of when they would meet again.

Before she could elaborate, a servant rushed into the hall, loudly announcing that the Fifth Prince and Cheng Shaoshang were secretly meeting at Jingxin Lake, causing a huge uproar among the guests.

Episode 37 Recap

As Cheng Shaoshang and Fifth Prince were walking back from Jingxin Lake, they were met by Wen Di, Empress Xuan, and their retinue. Fifth Princess immediately accused Cheng Shaoshang of being overly ambitious, saying she was betrothed to Ling Buyi yet still seducing Fifth Prince. Her maid, Chun Tiao, claimed to have seen them in a secret meeting and heard Fifth Prince call Cheng Shaoshang "beauty."

Fifth Prince vehemently denied the accusation, explaining he had been tricked by one of Fifth Princess's maids into going to Jingxin Lake under the false promise of meeting a "beauty." When challenged by Fifth Princess to identify the maid among her assembled ladies, Fifth Prince couldn't, which Fifth Princess used as an opportunity to further malign Cheng Shaoshang, declaring that women who act immorally in the palace deserved to be beaten to death.

Empress Xuan, looking distressed, interrupted, reminding Fifth Princess that it was her birthday and such behavior was disrespectful. Wen Di then asked Cheng Shaoshang to explain what happened. She clarified that she had simply passed Jingxin Lake and rescued Fifth Prince after he accidentally fell into the water. Fifth Princess scornfully dismissed her explanation, doubting anyone would believe it. Empress Xuan, complaining of a headache and exhaustion, decided to leave the banquet and return to Changqiu Palace to rest.

An official advised Wen Di to defer any investigation or punishment until after the birthday celebration, a suggestion Wen Di accepted, but he vowed to hold the culprits accountable the next day. As Fifth Princess left, she issued a direct threat to Cheng Shaoshang, promising that their conflict was far from over. Despite the public accusations, Ling Buyi's trust in Cheng Shaoshang remained unwavering. When she asked if he believed her, he simply replied, "Of course."

Feeling deeply wronged, Cheng Shaoshang had little desire to argue further. She followed Empress Xuan back to Changqiu Palace. Later that night, Cheng Shaoshang secretly slipped out to Longyuan Garden and meticulously set up a series of traps. The next morning, before daybreak, Wen Di noticed Empress Xuan was already awake and urged her to get more rest. Empress Xuan replied that she couldn't sleep while he was awake.

Wen Di then told Cheng Shaoshang that she had worked hard for the birthday banquet and should return home to her parents. Just as Cheng Shaoshang expressed her gratitude, a commotion erupted. A disheveled Fifth Princess, covered in grime, burst into Changqiu Palace, screaming that she would kill Cheng Shaoshang. Her dramatic entrance and soiled appearance shocked both Wen Di and Empress Xuan.

Fifth Princess recounted how she had spent the night in Longyuan Garden, intending to leave in the morning, only to have her and her noble entourage drenched in wastewater, thrashed with rattan canes, and covered in wood ashes after triggering Cheng Shaoshang's elaborate mechanisms. She demanded that her parents deliver justice for the humiliation suffered by her and her noble guests.

Consort Yue intervened, dismissing Fifth Princess's claims due to a lack of evidence and telling her to clean herself up. Fifth Princess, however, grew increasingly agitated, accusing Consort Yue of protecting Cheng Shaoshang. Consort Yue sharply rebuked Fifth Princess for her lack of filial piety, pointing out that she only sought her mother's help when it suited her, despite enjoying a carefree life in her own mansion.

Fifth Princess's anger spiraled, and she openly insulted the Yue clan, accusing them of flaunting their power and oppressing Changqiu Palace. She even made inappropriate implications about Wen Di's relationship with Consort Yue. Empress Xuan was deeply pained by Fifth Princess's disrespectful and baseless remarks towards Consort Yue.

Having heard enough, Consort Yue apologized to Empress Xuan for Fifth Princess's impertinence and then slapped Fifth Princess across the face, stating it was for framing Cheng Shaoshang during the Empress's birthday banquet. Fifth Princess denied it and demanded proof. At that moment, Ling Buyi presented the dance girl who had previously lured Fifth Prince. He revealed that she had confessed that Fifth Princess had deliberately orchestrated the meeting at Jingxin Lake to frame Cheng Shaoshang and Fifth Prince.

However, when pressed for details, Fifth Princess threatened the girl, causing her to feign unconsciousness. Wen Di ordered the girl to be returned to her father for discipline. Fifth Prince attempted to expose Fifth Princess's threats, but she retorted with a venomous insult, calling him a "bastard" and disparaging his mother's humble origins. Enraged by the insult, Fifth Prince blurted out the truth: Fifth Princess and her friends had pushed Cheng Shaoshang into the water a few days prior.

With the truth revealed, Cheng Shaoshang admitted she had set the traps in Longyuan Garden as retaliation. Cornered, a furious Fifth Princess confessed to another crime, shouting that she should have used venomous snakes to kill Cheng Shaoshang that day instead of just scaring her. Unrepentant, she asserted her superior status as a direct descendant princess, belittling Cheng Shaoshang's life as trivial as an ant's.

Empress Xuan, visibly distraught and pale, condemned Fifth Princess for her arrogance, unfilial behavior, and malicious acts on her birthday, admitting she had indulged her too much and tearfully declared she would never forgive her. Ling Buyi's face darkened as he warned Fifth Princess that he had a "big gift" waiting for her once she left the palace, but she remained defiant.

Finally, Wen Di decreed that Fifth Princess be confined to the imperial mausoleum for half a day to reflect on her actions, after which she would return to her mansion under house arrest, forbidden to leave without his decree. Fifth Princess, still screaming her innocence, was forcibly removed as attendants rushed to support the ailing Empress Xuan.

After everyone else had left, Consort Yue confronted Luo Jitong, inquiring about the punishment for her maid, Chun Tiao, who had instigated the rumors. Luo Jitong calmly responded that she had never expected such deceit from Chun Tiao and assured Consort Yue that she would have her father and brother sell the maid to a remote, harsh region.

Observing Luo Jitong's swift and decisive handling of the matter, Consort Yue recognized a hidden shrewdness and calculating nature, concluding that the drama within Changqiu Palace was only just beginning. Alone in the quiet palace corridor, Ling Buyi's emotions were in turmoil. He asked Cheng Shaoshang if her tears and request for a hug that night were due to the bullying she had suffered.

He expressed his hurt, questioning how long she would have kept the truth about the snake and drowning incidents from him if it hadn't come out during the confrontation. Cheng Shaoshang tried to downplay the snake incident, calling them common water snakes, but Ling Buyi pressed on, demanding to know why she hadn't told him. He asked who she considered him to be and why she continually distrusted him and acted alone.

Cheng Shaoshang struggled to articulate her feelings, eventually saying she wasn't unwilling to trust him, but Ling Buyi interrupted, asserting that she simply didn't hold him dear in her heart. Cheng Shaoshang defended her self-reliant nature, explaining that her childhood experiences had taught her not to depend on others. She questioned why women must always wait for their fiancés to save them, asserting that they are capable of saving themselves.

To her, the recent incidents were entirely manageable, just like her past fights, which she had always handled alone. She wondered why she couldn't continue to be herself after meeting him. Ling Buyi countered, distinguishing palace dangers from domestic disputes. He argued that if her recklessness cost her his life, he could avenge her, but it wouldn't bring her back.

Cheng Shaoshang retorted that he was the one who brought her to the palace, and thus, the dangers were a consequence of their connection. Ling Buyi interpreted this as her true feelings, believing she distrusted and even feared him. Cheng Shaoshang admitted her fear but also expressed a desire for closeness, explaining that after years of neglect, she needed time to fully open her heart.

Ling Buyi finally understood why Cheng Shaoshang had once preferred Lou Yao: Lou Yao posed no threat and made her feel comfortable. In contrast, his own forceful efforts to keep her by his side had made her feel repressed, even disgusted, and prevented her from seeing him as a truly intimate person. He expressed deep regret for having forced her. After this intense exchange, Ling Buyi's demeanor reverted to his usual cold, silent self.

He stated that he should not have forced her to stay and that he should have realized this truth earlier. As he turned to leave, Cheng Shaoshang desperately called out to him, reminding him that he once claimed to love her fierce and vengeful nature, questioning why he was now forcing her to change. She asserted her identity as Cheng Shaoshang, not merely "Ling Zisheng's fiancee." Ling Buyi briefly turned back, simply stating, "I know.

You don't have to change," before continuing his departure. Watching his retreating back, Cheng Shaoshang despairingly muttered that she had already learned to accept the palace and even him, but he, it seemed, could not accept her for who she truly was.

Acting on the information provided by Fifth Prince, Ling Buyi deployed his forces to the Ministry of Justice, where he publicly subjected Official Zuo and the family members of the seven other young ladies involved in bullying Cheng Shaoshang to a flogging. Yuan Shen, the Attendant Gentleman of the Ministry of Justice, watched the spectacle impassively. Official Zuo vehemently protested, claiming his daughter's actions were merely a "joke among girls" and accusing Ling Buyi of disregarding the law.

Ling Buyi mockingly retorted that he was simply "joking around like men" and continued the punishment. Yuan Shen, far from intervening, declared he would meticulously record every strike Ling Buyi inflicted for a future trial and calmly sipped tea with Fifth Prince as the beatings continued. Ling Buyi’s subordinate assured Official Zuo that all eight families would face justice, adding that Ling Buyi had already uncovered evidence of corruption against the other seven officials.

Ling Buyi then ordered the disgraced family members to be paraded through the capital, ensuring all citizens would witness the consequences of failing to discipline their children. Meanwhile, an eunuch escorted Fifth Princess back to her mansion. Initially defiant, she believed her parents were merely trying to scare her. However, the eunuch, firmly asserting his authority derived from Wen Di, insisted she comply.

Upon entering her courtyard, Fifth Princess was confronted with the sight of her executed aides, their bodies neatly laid out. She collapsed into tears, finally grasping the gravity of her actions. The eunuch relayed Wen Di's stern message: the aides were executed for their misconduct, and as a princess, she bore the responsibility of being a filial role model; if she failed to reflect, more would suffer.

The news of Fifth Princess keeping "male companions"—or, as her family's aide clarified to a furious Marquis Yue, merely "aides"—spread like wildfire, causing immense humiliation for the Yue family. The Marquis, enraged by the scandal, dismissed the "aide" explanation as a cover-up by the Xuan clan and questioned his niece's ambitions. The Yue family aide, recognizing a political opportunity, suggested that the upright Third Prince, whom Wen Di frequently praised, was the rightful successor.

At Changqiu Palace, the Crown Prince and Crown Princess were attending to the still-unwell Empress Xuan. The Crown Princess, however, continued to highlight Fifth Princess's transgressions and the unpleasant rumors, further upsetting the Empress. The Crown Prince tried to silence her, but Cheng Shaoshang intervened, remarking that the Crown Princess's attempts at comfort were only making things worse. Later, in private, the Crown Prince chastised the Crown Princess for being inconsiderate of his parents' feelings.

The Crown Princess denied any malicious intent, tearfully recounting how her past miscarriage was caused by the stress of seeing Qu Lingjun's entanglement with the Crown Prince, a memory that still haunted her. The Crown Prince, exasperated, dismissed her accusations, stating that Qu Lingjun was now happily married and he had always treated her with propriety. He accused the Crown Princess of being overly suspicious and projecting her own insecurities.

Deeply misunderstood, she lamented that in his eyes, she was merely a jealous woman. The Crown Prince countered that no one despised her for her humble background; it was her own self-resentment. He urged her to let go of her lingering resentment, firmly stating he would not marry Qu Lingjun.

Episode 38 Recap

Empress Xuan, understanding that the Crown Princess's offensive remarks stemmed from her own insecurities, especially when faced with figures like the Fifth Princess or the graceful Qu Lingjun, advised Cheng Shaoshang not to take them to heart. Shaoshang, curious, asked about Qu Lingjun. The Empress revealed that Qu Lingjun, a noble lady of superior background, was the Crown Prince's first love. They had developed feelings for each other through her frequent palace visits.

However, Emperor Wen, having made a marriage promise in his earlier, humbler days, insisted the Crown Prince honor it by marrying Sun, the current Crown Princess. Shaoshang lamented the fate that separated the Crown Prince and Qu Lingjun.

The Empress disclosed that Ling Buyi, even as a young boy, had also tried to prevent this marriage, warning both the Emperor and the Empress, and later the Crown Prince and Crown Princess themselves, of its future harm, but his efforts were in vain. The Empress then observed that Shaoshang could not truly comprehend the Crown Princess's deep-seated anxieties because Shaoshang had not yet fully opened her heart to Ling Buyi.

Shaoshang denied this, earnestly confessing that while she once saw Ling Buyi as an unreachable ideal, she now recognized him as a flesh-and-blood individual capable of joy and sorrow, and loved him even more than before. The Empress was pleased, believing Ling Buyi had chosen the right person. Their conversation was abruptly cut short by a eunuch rushing in, announcing Emperor Wen's fury and his order to severely punish Ling Buyi at Xuanming Hall. Shaoshang hurried towards the hall.

An attendant explained that Ling Buyi, seeking revenge for Shaoshang, had acted without imperial decree, stormed into the Imperial Censorate, and broke Official Zuo's legs. This outrageous act led to eight powerful families jointly petitioning the Emperor, leaving the situation in chaos. Shaoshang entered the hall, kneeling to plead for leniency. Emperor Wen, fuming, watched as Ling Buyi declared his willingness to accept punishment, refusing any intercession. Shaoshang interrupted, insisting it was her grievance, not his, to address.

Ling Buyi retorted that if she would act with such defiance, he would too, and that she need no longer concern herself with him. Shocked, Shaoshang accused him of trying to break their engagement. Ling Buyi then unexpectedly declared his desire to resign his post and live in seclusion with her in the countryside, fulfilling her dream.

Emperor Wen, enraged by Ling Buyi's insolent talk of resignation, scolded Shaoshang for constantly arguing with his foster son and failing to emulate the Empress's gentle disposition. Attempting to shield Ling Buyi, Shaoshang falsely claimed their argument had provoked his reckless behavior, but the Emperor still chastised her. Despite Shaoshang's plea for clemency, the Third Prince demanded a harsh penalty. To appease the influential families, Emperor Wen ordered Ling Buyi to be beaten one hundred times.

Ling Buyi accepted his fate silently and walked out. When Shaoshang saw the Fifth Prince openly enjoying Ling Buyi's plight, she angrily confronted him, prompting Emperor Wen to also order the Fifth Prince to receive ten strokes. Outside, Shaoshang watched in anguish as the executioner's blows fell upon Ling Buyi, seemingly tearing his flesh, causing her profound distress.

Emperor Wen told her that Ling Buyi endured this punishment for her, instructing her to be exceptionally careful in the palace to prevent further harm to him. When Shaoshang noticed the Third Prince deliberately miscounting, she broke free from the guards, vehemently protesting the unfairness and accusing the Third Prince of malice. Her cries became hoarse as she struggled against the guards. The Empress and Consort Yue arrived.

The astute Consort Yue immediately discerned that Emperor Wen's punishment was a calculated charade. She explained that there were two types of corporal punishment in the military: one that leaves no external marks but causes severe internal damage, and another that looks brutal but inflicts no lasting injury. She concluded that Ling Buyi was receiving the latter.

Emperor Wen confirmed her suspicions, revealing his intention was to force Shaoshang to confront her true feelings and recognize Ling Buyi's place in her heart. He even subtly ordered a guard to allow Shaoshang to get closer to Ling Buyi, but not touch him, to amplify her emotional realization. Witnessing Ling Buyi's silent endurance, Shaoshang was overcome by a powerful emotion she had never known.

She cried out her love for him, promising to always consult him and act as one with him, offering him her sincere heart and begging him to never again act so recklessly for her sake. Satisfied, Emperor Wen ordered the beating to stop and arranged for Ling Buyi to be taken to Changqiu Palace for recovery. Consort Yue departed with a sarcastic remark about the Emperor's cleverness.

That night, with the first cold wave of winter descending, Ling Buyi rested in Changqiu Palace. Despite the warmth of the hearth, Shaoshang remained deeply worried. She disregarded the Empress's assurances and, wrapped in a blanket she had warmed by the fire, went to check on him, concerned about the thin bedding.

Earlier, Liang Qiufeng had sneaked in to visit Ling Buyi but was quickly sent away by his master, who pointed out that outsiders were not allowed to stay in Changqiu Palace. Alone with Ling Buyi, Shaoshang realized his injuries were not real. Ling Buyi admitted it was a ruse to elicit her true feelings, confirming that she loved him. The two shared their first intimate kiss.

Shaoshang tenderly cared for him, feeding him medicine and then playing the flute for him. They reminisced about their first encounter at the lantern festival, with Ling Buyi confessing that for him, "one look was enough" to know she was his lifelong companion. Shaoshang promised that if he never deceived her, she would never let him down. Away from the palace, Xiao Yuanyi was despondent over Shaoshang's prolonged absence, even dismissing the warm cloak Shaoshang had sent.

Cheng Shi tried to console his wife, highlighting Shaoshang's capability and how she brought honor to their family, unlike other young women who caused trouble. He suggested that Ling Buyi's recent audacious acts had made Shaoshang seem less troublesome by comparison. However, Xiao Yuanyi remained unconvinced, perceiving Ling Buyi's reckless assault on an official as a sign that he was even more unreliable than their daughter.

As Ling Buyi had anticipated, Emperor Wen, in an attempt to pacify public outrage, ordered him to personally supervise the restoration of the Imperial Censorate. The Liang brothers took this opportunity to covertly retrieve military reports belonging to the Yue family, managing to do so without arousing Official Zuo's suspicion. Liang Qiufeng questioned the necessity of these reports, as they already suspected Marquis Yue of deliberately delaying aid to Gu City.

Ling Buyi explained that despite Marquis Yue's avarice, Consort Yue's integrity meant Emperor Wen would always protect the Yue clan, making irrefutable evidence crucial. With the key witnesses, the military doctor and Han Wu, now deceased, Ling Buyi revealed a vital inconsistency in the military records: although soldiers sent to investigate the miasma were reported dead, there was no mention of casualties among their warhorses.

Given the high value of warhorses, their deaths would certainly have been recorded, proving the miasma incident was fabricated and Marquis Yue was lying. Acknowledging Marquis Yue's cunning, Ling Buyi concluded that if he would not make a mistake willingly, they would force him to do so.

Episode 39 Recap

Following the Changqiu Palace's birthday banquet, the scandal involving Fifth Princess's male companions persisted, leaving her manor deserted and her reputation ruined. Emperor Wen summoned Official Yue to the palace, intending to expedite Fifth Princess's marriage to his youngest son, believing this would dispel the rumors. Official Yue initially resisted, questioning the suddenness of the proposal.

The Crown Prince reminded him of their father's ancient promise of a marriage alliance between the Xuan and Yue clans, stating it was time to fulfill it. Official Yue then pointedly contrasted the virtuous daughters of the Yue clan with the princesses of the Xuan clan, implying Fifth Princess's recent disgrace. Ling Buyi intervened, questioning Official Yue's discriminatory remarks, emphasizing that all princesses were Emperor Wen's daughters.

Official Yue retorted that marrying Fifth Princess amidst the scandal would harm both the Yue clan's standing and Fifth Princess's reputation. Emperor Wen explained that he intended the marriage precisely to safeguard Fifth Princess's good name, as it would serve as proof against the circulating rumors. Despite his reservations, Official Yue ultimately bowed to the imperial decree, expressing his thanks. Later, Cheng Shaoshang encountered the Crown Princess and Fifth Prince's Consort.

Shaoshang explained she was there on the Empress's orders to deliver additional gifts to Qu Lingjun, who had left the palace hastily with her husband, Liang Shang. Soon after, they spotted Qu Lingjun and Liang Shang. After exchanging greetings, the Crown Princess expressed surprise that Qu Lingjun was leaving the capital so soon after arriving for the Empress's birthday, noting that the Crown Prince often spoke of Qu Lingjun's children and wished to meet them.

She then spoke of her own inability to bear children, remarking on how different things might have been if Qu Lingjun had married the Crown Prince. Liang Shang grew visibly uncomfortable and tried to depart, but the Crown Princess pressed them to visit the Eastern Palace, hinting at their past connection.

Qu Lingjun, observing her husband's rising anger, firmly refused, stating she would not visit the Eastern Palace and urged the Crown Princess to cease her "meaningless words" to avoid drawing unwanted attention. As Qu Lingjun and Liang Shang left, Fifth Prince's Consort expressed her sympathy for Qu Lingjun, remarking on Liang Shang's harsh demeanor. Meanwhile, the Crown Princess, watching from the city wall, sent an attendant after them with a "farewell gift" from the Eastern Palace.

Qu Lingjun politely declined the gift, but Liang Shang, despite his wife's protest, accepted it. Inside the box, he discovered the Crown Prince's personal handkerchief, which ignited his fury. From the city wall, the Crown Princess watched their horse cart depart, and a faint, sorrowful cry from Qu Lingjun was heard. Soon after, the Ministry of Justice received news that Qu Lingjun had murdered her husband, Liang Shang.

Ling Buyi reported this to the Empress, confirming the murder occurred around noon the previous day. Upon hearing this, the Crown Prince immediately appeared, denying Qu Lingjun's guilt and declaring her framed. To prove her innocence, he confessed a shocking secret: he had been with Qu Lingjun at Zigui Courtyard that very noon. The Crown Princess, arriving and overhearing the confession, was enraged.

She accused Qu Lingjun of shamelessly seducing the Crown Prince during the Empress's birthday banquet to rekindle their old flame. The Crown Prince, however, sternly interrupted her, refuting her claims and stating they had merely "met," not engaged in a tryst. He harshly criticized her narrow-mindedness and revealed that Qu Lingjun's decade of suffering and abuse at Liang Shang's hands was a direct result of the Crown Princess's manipulative schemes.

He exposed her two-faced nature, revealing she had feigned kindness while secretly sending intimate gifts, such as his personal handkerchief, a summer sleeping mat, and a jade pillow, to Qu Lingjun under his name. This deceit fueled Liang Shang's jealousy and violence, making Qu Lingjun's life unbearable. With her malicious actions exposed, the Crown Princess made no attempt to hide her deep-seated hatred for Qu Lingjun, wishing her dead in prison.

Utterly disappointed, the Crown Prince presented her with an ultimatum: either accompany him to Emperor Wen to plead for Qu Lingjun's innocence or leave the Eastern Palace. The Crown Princess defiantly chose the latter, vowing never to forgive Qu Lingjun. Cheng Shaoshang, who had been present throughout this explosive confrontation, listened with a heavy heart, lamenting the intertwined fates.

Back at Liang's Residence, Yuan Shen prepared to escort Qu Lingjun to the Ministry of Justice, but Liang Shang's mother vehemently refused, demanding Qu Lingjun pay for her son's life. Liang Wuji, Liang Shang's adopted brother and Governor of Liang, urged for a peaceful resolution, fearing that implicating the Crown Prince would bring disaster upon the entire Liang clan.

He voiced his trust in Qu Lingjun, even acknowledging the possibility of an affair, arguing that such complex matters within noble families were common and difficult to discern, pointedly referencing Madam Liang's own past as a maidservant who became his father's official wife. Madam Liang, infuriated, attacked Liang Wuji, belittling his adopted status and threatening to expel him and Qu Lingjun from the clan for prioritizing clan interests over her son's life.

Unexpectedly, Qu Lingjun then confessed, admitting to meeting the Crown Prince privately and acknowledging her fault, expressing her willingness to die for her husband. Meanwhile, the Crown Prince knelt before Emperor Wen, pleading for a thorough investigation to clear Qu Lingjun's name. Emperor Wen was furious, scolding his son for his foolishness.

He chastised the Crown Prince for almost ruining his own reputation and bringing shame upon the royal family due to personal affections, deeming him unworthy of being the Crown Prince. The Crown Prince, however, remained resolute, stating he would rather die than see Qu Lingjun wronged further, expressing remorse for her past suffering caused by him, and insisting on their innocence.

Emperor Wen scorned his claims, questioning who would believe in their innocence given they met alone in a private courtyard, further accusing him of prioritizing personal feelings over the stability of the nation. Empress Xuan then intervened, reminding Emperor Wen that parents understood their children best and that a child's trust in their parents was paramount. She affirmed her unwavering belief in the Crown Prince's integrity.

Moved by her words, Emperor Wen finally relented, tasking Ling Buyi with the investigation, demanding that he uncover the truth to provide closure for the Eastern Palace and the entire realm. Cheng Shaoshang, who had been secretly listening, emerged and requested to accompany Ling Buyi. She explained her desire to repay Empress Xuan's kindness and her admiration for the Crown Prince's newfound courage in standing up for justice.

She declared that good people should not suffer while the wicked prosper, citing Liang Shang's long history of abusing his family as reason for him not to be avenged by Qu Lingjun's death. Ling Buyi agreed to her request but cautioned her against causing any trouble, to which Shaoshang vehemently denied ever doing so. At Liang's Residence, Liang Shang's younger brother recounted the events surrounding the murder.

He described how Liang Shang cherished his valuable carvings and stated that on the day of the incident, servants saw Qu Lingjun deliver lunch. They then heard Liang Shang shouting at her, calling her filthy and ordering her to leave, never to return. Later that evening, servants discovered Liang Shang dead. Since no one else had entered or exited the room, they concluded Qu Lingjun was the murderer, a claim she had since admitted.

Cheng Shaoshang quickly intervened, reminding Madam Liang that private punishment was unlawful while the case remained unsolved. Madam Liang, dismissing Shaoshang's authority and accusing the Empress of protecting the Crown Prince, threatened to take her grievance to the Censorate, even "rolling over the nail board," to expose the Emperor and Empress's supposed favoritism and humiliation of their century-old noble family.

At this critical moment, Yuan Shen's mother arrived, immediately stopping Madam Liang and asserting her authority as the Liang family's eldest legitimate daughter to manage internal affairs. She forcefully had Madam Liang restrained, reminding her that when she was born, Madam Liang was merely her father's maidservant who was only elevated to official wife after bearing Liang Xia, making Liang Shang a concubine's son.

Yuan Shen's mother lambasted Madam Liang's narrow-mindedness and self-serving nature, accusing her of always favoring Liang Xia over Liang Shang, which fostered Liang Shang's suspicious and sensitive personality, ultimately leading to the tragic events. She declared that Qu Lingjun and her maid were now under her protection and that Madam Liang's status as a widow within the family was effectively over. Pressured by Yuan Shen's mother, Qu Lingjun finally revealed the truth of her suffering.

She confessed that she had initially sought to end her marriage, but Liang Shang repeatedly threatened to spread rumors of her alleged secret affair with the Crown Prince, and later, to harm their children, forcing her to endure years of abuse. Meanwhile, Ling Buyi continued his inquiry with the assembled Liang men. He presented his theory: the murderer acted with such conspicuousness because they had internal support.

He pointed out that Liang Shang, as the family head, if murdered and his wife framed, would render his son ineligible to inherit the position. This suggested the true motive was a power struggle for leadership within the Liang clan. Ling Buyi then revealed a crucial detail: the Crown Prince's "tryst" was a deception, as the person who delivered the meal to Liang Shang's study that fateful noon was not Qu Lingjun, but her personal maidservant, Youtong.

Episode 40 Recap

Liang Shang was found dead in his study, a brick and wood house situated by a lake. The scene revealed a large desk, numerous artifacts, and significant bloodstains on a couch. Qu Lingjun explained that her maid, Youtong, wearing Qu Lingjun’s cloak, had gone to deliver food to Liang Shang that day. Liang Shang, mistaking Youtong for Qu Lingjun, angrily chased her out. Later, a servant discovered Liang Shang slumped over his desk, a dagger in his back.

Despite Qu Lingjun's tearful assertion that she was innocent, Liang Shang's mother vehemently accused her, claiming that guards had only seen Qu Lingjun entering and leaving the study, implying Youtong was framed, and further slandering Qu Lingjun for allegedly having an affair with the Crown Prince. Cheng Shaoshang interjected, asking for the chance to investigate. Yuan Shen, accompanying Cheng Shaoshang, immediately mocked her for her supposed arrogance, wondering why she insisted on investigating such a case.

His mother, noticing their constant bickering, inwardly concluded that her son held feelings for Cheng Shaoshang. Yuan Shen then informed his mother that he and Cheng Shaoshang were going to investigate the case and took his leave. Inside the study, Cheng Shaoshang observed that Yuan Shen’s outspoken nature contrasted sharply with his mother's reserved demeanor, leading him to explain that his family members complement each other.

Yuan Shen, still verbally sparring, tried to dissuade Cheng Shaoshang from investigating further, calling it "creepy" for a woman to do so. Cheng Shaoshang retorted that she was there because she sensed foul play, and it was crucial for clearing the reputations of Qu Lingjun, the Empress, and the Crown Prince, stating firmly that she was not a woman who would simply obey her husband and wait at home.

Yuan Shen reiterated Ling Buyi’s concerns about the political dangers of the case. Cheng Shaoshang remarked on Yuan Shen's surprisingly improved temper, noting that she herself felt happier and calmer due to Ling Buyi’s deep love. She then playfully suggested Yuan Shen find a wife soon, as a woman as outstanding as herself was a rare find. Yuan Shen, annoyed by her boasting about her relationship, dismissively told her to leave if their displays of affection "disgusted" him.

Cheng Shaoshang promptly told him to "get out," and he left the study, remarking that the room was "as small as a palm." Inspired by this comment, Cheng Shaoshang began pacing and measuring the room. She found that the interior measured 20 steps while the exterior measured 26, confirming the existence of a hidden space. As she activated a hidden mechanism, Liang Xia suddenly pulled her into the secret room.

Inside the secret room, Cheng Shaoshang immediately recognized Liang Xia as the murderer, noting his blood-stained clothes and panicked demeanor. She calmly questioned him, and he confessed his resentment. He felt he was the true legitimate son with greater ambition, yet the family headship was given to the "useless" Liang Shang, despite his own mother's initial promise to him.

Cheng Shaoshang deduced his plan: killing Liang Shang in a fit of rage, attempting to frame Qu Lingjun, then hiding in the secret room to change out of his bloodied robes and blend in with the servants. He had returned to destroy evidence, but Ling Buyi’s aggressive search had scared him. Meanwhile, Ling Buyi, alerted to Cheng Shaoshang’s disappearance, ordered his troops to demolish the study. Liang Shang’s mother frantically protested this destruction of their ancestral home.

Realizing he was trapped, Liang Xia, with Cheng Shaoshang’s prompting, grabbed her as a hostage. As the walls began to crumble, he emerged, holding a dagger to Cheng Shaoshang. Ling Buyi, feigning a threat to cut off Liang Shang’s mother’s arm, used the distraction to swiftly pull Cheng Shaoshang into his arms, securing her safety. Liang Xia was apprehended, screaming accusations at his mother, calling her a hypocrite.

He recounted his frustration that his mediocre biological brother, Liang Shang, had received the family headship despite his mother’s initial promise to him, while he was left to waste away for two decades. Yuan Shen’s mother scornfully interjected, calling Liang Xia’s lament laughable and blaming his own lack of ambition and his mother’s excessive spoiling for his downfall, echoing the saying, "A doting mother spoils her child."

As Ling Buyi pressed Liang Xia to reveal the mastermind behind the plot to frame the Crown Prince, Liang Wuji, an adopted brother, seized an opportunity and shot Liang Xia dead with an arrow, effectively silencing him. Cheng Shaoshang, shaken, confided in Ling Buyi that she had her own dagger but chose to coax Liang Xia out. Ling Buyi, clearly relieved and concerned, comforted her, admitting he was terrified when her safety was at stake.

Liang Wuji, brought before Emperor Wen Di and Ling Buyi, defended his action of killing Liang Xia, stating that it benefited the broader situation. He argued that the once-illustrious Liang family of Hedong had been decimated by Emperor Li, leaving him, an adopted son, to manage a family devoid of capable men. His own biological brothers, Liang Shang and Liang Xia, were "useless," and he had only hoped for the next generation to produce talent.

He tearfully implored the Emperor, suggesting that further investigation into Liang Xia’s role in framing the Crown Prince would be detrimental to the stability of the empire. Emperor Wen Di, already aware of the Liang family’s plight and reluctant to inflame tensions, chose to suppress the matter. After Liang Wuji departed, Ling Buyi confirmed to the Emperor that Liang Wuji was not the true mastermind, nor did Liang Xia possess the cunning for such a plot.

Ling Buyi pressed, asking who else could have orchestrated the framing of the Crown Prince, knowing about his private meeting with Qu Lingjun at Zigui Courtyard. He dismissed the suggestion that Crown Princess’s cousin, Sun Sheng, was the mastermind, noting that Sun Sheng, already captured, would not survive long if released. Ling Buyi concluded by stating that Emperor Wen Di surely knew the true culprit, who had committed numerous other misdeeds beyond this incident.

Meanwhile, in a tense confrontation, Consort Yue slapped her brother, Marquis Yue, expressing her deep regret for having to do so for the sake of their deceased parents. She sharply criticized his foolish scheme to frame the Crown Prince and accused him of hypocrisy for complaining about the Yue family’s sacrifices. Marquis Yue, feeling aggrieved, asserted that the Yue family had endured great sacrifices for the Emperor, yet they had gained little, while the Xuan family prospered.

He claimed that Emperor Wen Di favored the Xuan family and his sister should have been Empress and the Third Prince, Crown Prince. Consort Yue angrily rejected his claims, reminding him that she was the legitimate first wife, not a concubine, and accused him of acting out of personal grievance. She then confronted him about his delayed rescue of Gu City, questioning if he used the miasma as an excuse to cause Huo Chong’s death.

Marquis Yue denied it, but Consort Yue, revealing her extensive knowledge of Ling Buyi’s long-standing investigation, including the Wen Xiu coinage case and the murder of messenger Han Wu, pressed him for the truth. She pointed out inconsistencies in his story, asking why scouts died in the miasma but their horses survived. Realizing Consort Yue had tricked him into confessing, Marquis Yue finally broke, admitting that he had indeed received a report that the miasma was harmless.

He confessed that, driven by resentment towards the Xuan family, he decided to delay Lord Qian’an’s rescue by killing his own scouts and falsely reporting the miasma as dangerous. Ling Buyi then demanded to know why, if aid was only delayed by three days, Gu City, which could have held for ten, fell so quickly. Marquis Yue claimed ignorance, but Ling Buyi exposed the truth: Lord Yong had secretly switched the military armaments, rendering the city defenseless.

Marquis Yue vehemently denied any involvement in switching armaments, maintaining his sole motive was to embarrass the Xuan family. Despite his pleas, Consort Yue highlighted that his actions were directly responsible for Lord Qian’an’s death and Gu City’s fall. Emperor Wen Di, acknowledging the Yue family's past loyalty, decided against execution. Instead, he stripped Marquis Yue of his title and banished him to guard the imperial mausoleum. Consort Yue expressed her contempt for the Emperor's lenient judgment.

Marquis Yue, however, thanked the Emperor for sparing his life. Emperor Wen Di assured Ling Buyi that Peng Kun’s case would be thoroughly investigated. Returning to Changqiu Palace, Cheng Shaoshang explained to Ling Buyi that she had stayed because she knew her family would scold her for taking such risks.

Ling Buyi, while acknowledging her bravery in defending the Empress, Crown Prince, and Qu Lingjun, gently chided her for putting herself in danger, admitting he was terrified at the thought of anything happening to her. Later, Cheng Shaoshang noticed Ling Buyi’s persistent somber mood, even after the Gu City case was largely resolved. She asked him why he remained unhappy.

Ling Buyi then posed a hypothetical question: if someone harmed her loved ones, and she knew they were guilty but couldn't legally punish them, what would she do? Cheng Shaoshang, known for her retaliatory nature, declared she would ensure they suffered a thousandfold. Ling Buyi then asked what would happen if seeking revenge meant hurting someone she loved. Cheng Shaoshang replied that in any choice between two things, one must ultimately determine which is more important.

That same night, Yuan Shen’s mother confronted him about his unmarried status at 21 and asked if he harbored feelings for Cheng Shaoshang, noting his anxious demeanor during the investigation. Yuan Shen admitted that he had once meticulously planned for an ideal wife, considering every aspect from family background to talent. However, witnessing the detached and loveless marriage of his own parents, who lived separately and yearned for different people, had disillusioned him about marriage.

He questioned the purpose of marrying and having children only to perpetuate unhappiness. His mother expressed sorrow for their troubled marriage, a complex political union that inadvertently scarred him. Yuan Shen, however, accepted his fate, saying that perhaps it was better not to marry at all than to create another miserable couple. He confessed that ever since Cheng Shaoshang’s engagement, he had struggled to find a suitable bride, realizing now that it was because no other woman matched her.

He acknowledged that he was "one step too slow," but affirmed that his life, even without her, would continue. Later, Consort Yue summoned Ling Buyi for a private meeting. She revealed that her motivation for orchestrating Marquis Yue’s confession was not for the Yue family, the Emperor, or the common people, but solely for the Huo family, for Huo Chong, and for Ling Buyi himself.

Sensing his discontent with the Emperor’s lenient sentence for Marquis Yue, she boldly offered to kill her brother if Ling Buyi believed his life would adequately atone for the Huo family’s tragedy. She urged Ling Buyi to release his long-held anguish, to marry, and to live a good life to continue the Huo family’s legacy. Ling Buyi respectfully declined her offer.

He stated that the Emperor’s decision was correct, as Marquis Yue did not directly shed Huo family blood, and the Emperor’s leniency was understandable given the Yue family’s historical sacrifices. While acknowledging the Yue family’s debt for the delayed rescue, Ling Buyi reiterated that he no longer needed their amends, asserting that some wrongs committed could never be truly rectified.

Episode 41 Recap

The Imperial Edict was read, announcing the demotion of the Crown Princess of the Sun Clan to a commoner and her banishment to the Northern Palace. The decree cited her malicious heart, dishonest behavior, jealousy, and slanders that caused disorder in the palace and hostility among subjects. The Crown Prince quietly accepted the edict before departing, marking the end of their marriage.

Cheng Shaoshang later visited the disgraced Crown Princess, who immediately questioned if Cheng Shaoshang was there to mock her. Cheng Shaoshang recalled their shared lonely beginnings in the palace and how they once supported each other. She expressed regret that the Crown Princess's efforts had led to her own downfall and stated her visit was out of gratitude for past kindness.

The Crown Princess vehemently rejected any lecture, declaring she would never regret her actions and that no one could understand the bitterness of living with a husband who did not love her. Cheng Shaoshang clarified she was not asking for generosity but wished for the Crown Princess not to be trapped by her own jealousy and self-pity.

She pointed out that the Crown Princess should have cherished her marriage to the Crown Prince, who kept his promise, instead of tormenting another woman due to her own insecurities. Cheng Shaoshang concluded that the Crown Princess constantly blamed others for her marital misfortune without self-reflection, leading to her current situation. The Crown Princess remained defiant, stating she would rather die in the Northern Palace than face others, considering it her best final resting place.

Cheng Shaoshang responded that it was never the palace that trapped her, but her own heart. Later, Cheng Shaoshang discussed with Ling Buyi how she had expected the Crown Prince to rekindle his romance with Qu Lingjun after the divorce. However, Qu Lingjun had surprised everyone by marrying Liang Wuji. Ling Buyi noted that Liang Wuji was an upright man who cared for his kin, and he believed Liang Wuji would treat Qu Lingjun’s children as his own.

Cheng Shaoshang agreed, recalling how Liang Wuji had often defended Qu Lingjun and bravely stepped forward in difficult times, confidently stating he would be a good husband. Ling Buyi playfully accused her of praising another man in front of her fiance, asking if she wasn't afraid he'd be upset. Cheng Shaoshang teased him, surprised that the great General Ling would get jealous.

Cheng Shaoshang then reflected on her own good fortune, believing that all her past luck had been saved so she could meet Ling Buyi. She compared her fate to the Crown Princess, trapped in a loveless marriage, and Qu Lingjun, who suffered despite being a good wife, concluding she was blessed with both good luck and good judgment. Ling Buyi, in turn, claimed he was the one with better judgment.

As they walked, Ling Buyi stopped at a preserved fruit shop and, to Cheng Shaoshang’s amusement, had his black armored guards clear the way. He then ordered two bags of preserved fruits and paid for everyone in the shop, a gesture Cheng Shaoshang, now accustomed to his conspicuous ways, found endearing. An urgent military report soon arrived, announcing a defection in Shouchun. Emperor Wen Di discussed the situation over a meal with his officials, including Wan Songbai.

Ling Buyi offered his strategic insights, pointing out Shouchun's lack of fertile land and weapon workshops, making it ill-suited for a sustained rebellion. He proposed a strategy of dividing troops to besiege Shouchun, while also setting ambushes and clearing bandits along the mountain roads. Ling Buyi promptly offered to lead the troops to suppress the rebellion.

Emperor Wen Di, however, expressed his frustration, noting that many noble families were sending their sons to Shouchun to gain experience, implying they were seeking undeserved merits. While he understood the desire for experience, he found these young nobles difficult to lead. Ling Buyi insisted he could lead them. Emperor Wen Di angrily refused Ling Buyi’s request, questioning if the court lacked other generals. He reminded Ling Buyi that he always volunteered for war whenever marriage was mentioned.

Other officials tried to intervene, highlighting Ling Buyi's eagerness to serve the country, but Emperor Wen Di dismissed them all, ordering Ling Buyi to stay behind. Alone with Ling Buyi, Emperor Wen Di confronted him, expressing his desire for Ling Buyi to settle down, marry, and continue the Huo family line.

Ling Buyi explained his deep suspicion that Peng Kun had colluded with Emperor Li during the Gu City incident, which led to the murder of Lord Qian’an and the fall of the city. He reiterated that he must capture Peng Kun alive in Shouchun to investigate the truth and bring peace to his uncle Huo and the fallen souls of Gu City.

Emperor Wen Di promised to investigate the Huo family matter but had already decided to send Cui You to capture Peng Kun. He insisted Ling Buyi stay to prepare for his wedding, urging him to consider his fiancée and the dangers of the battlefield. Just then, Cheng Shaoshang arrived. Cheng Shaoshang entered the hall, delivering sweet wine from Empress Xuan, who had heard Emperor Wen Di was too busy to eat.

Emperor Wen Di praised Empress Xuan's thoughtfulness, contrasting her with Ling Buyi who caused him constant worry. Cheng Shaoshang clarified that she had made the wine herself and there was also a cup for Emperor Wen Di. She then delivered Empress Xuan's message: a general in a newly established empire should be on the battlefield, and if Ling Buyi loafed on his duty, he would inevitably be criticized as unworthy.

Emperor Wen Di expressed surprise that Empress Xuan, whose health had suffered from the Crown Prince's case, still had the energy to persuade him. He admitted he was merely worried about Ling Buyi and wanted him to marry. Cheng Shaoshang countered that many officials sent their children to battle despite caring for them, arguing that true support meant not restraining but empowering them.

She likened this to Empress Xuan, who, despite caring for Emperor Wen Di, did not stop him from working late into the night. Emperor Wen Di, though calling Cheng Shaoshang "ingratiating," implicitly yielded. Emperor Wen Di finally agreed to let Ling Buyi lead the army to Shouchun, but with a strict condition: Ling Buyi must return to the capital immediately after capturing Peng Kun and proceed with the wedding.

He threatened to marry Cheng Shaoshang to someone else if there were any further delays. Cheng Shaoshang quickly declared she would not marry anyone else and would wait for Ling Buyi, who promised a swift return. Emperor Wen Di then humorously shooed them away, telling them to display their affections elsewhere. Outside, Cheng Shaoshang cautioned Ling Buyi about their public displays of affection.

She then gazed at him intently, intending to remember his appearance, joking that he must not return as tanned as her father, lest she be marrying an "ink stick." Ling Buyi questioned why she had persuaded Emperor Wen Di to let him go if she was so worried. Cheng Shaoshang explained she understood the profound pain of his uncle's death and the Gu City massacre, knowing he had never truly let it go.

She expressed regret at being tied to caring for Empress Xuan, wishing she could fight alongside him. She told him, "I want to see you capture Peng Kun. I want to share the joy of having the great revenge avenged with you." Ling Buyi was deeply moved, stating her words were enough. Cheng Shaoshang urged him to go and return quickly, promising to wait in the capital for him to marry her.

Ling Buyi vowed to return and hold a grand wedding after dealing with Peng Kun. As preparations for the campaign intensified, Cheng Shaoshang worked tirelessly through the night to make armor for Ling Buyi, pricking her fingers multiple times. She insisted on doing it herself, believing it had to be personal to be sincere and protective. Xiao Yuanyi and Cheng Shi observed her from outside her window.

Cheng Shi, who had been assigned by Emperor Wen Di to supervise copper transport in Tongniu County, complained about his daughter’s suffering and wondered if she was making the armor for him, a thought Xiao Yuanyi quickly dispelled by commenting on its size. Meanwhile, Ling Buyi was strategizing his troop movements, suggesting bypassing Tongniu County to reach Shouchun in five days.

When a scout reported an intruder in the Panqing Military Camp, Ling Buyi ordered the person killed on sight, but his subordinate hesitated, saying it couldn't be done. It turned out Cheng Shaoshang had disguised herself to deliver the armor to Ling Buyi. She was surprised by the lack of guards in the vast military camp and "overheard" patrol soldiers conveniently reveal the main tent's location. Ling Buyi appeared, threatening to kill trespassers.

Cheng Shaoshang playfully challenged if he could bear to kill her, to which he admitted he couldn't. He questioned why she risked sneaking in, and she pointed out that if she were a real spy, he would have been caught due to the apparent lack of security. Ling Buyi then revealed he had intentionally made it easy for her, expressing his joy that she risked her life to see him. Cheng Shaoshang then revealed the armor she brought.

Ling Buyi took Cheng Shaoshang to a city tower, pointing to a large open space nearby. He revealed that he had requested this land from Emperor Wen Di as a reward for his victory. He described it as having an underground hot spring, ideal for planting, and promised to build their future home there.

He told her she could design it as she wished—cultivating fields, building canals, or planting flowers—creating a truly free space where she would never be blamed or abandoned. They would have children and grow old together there until the end of time. Cheng Shaoshang was moved to tears, expressing her love for the idea and fantasizing about playing the zither while he played the flute, just like her Third Aunt and Uncle, and growing old and dying together.

Ling Buyi then hinted that his own parents' relationship wasn't as unhappy as it seemed, though he quickly changed the subject and took her home, but not before she made him promise to build their new home together upon his victorious return. On the day of the army's departure, Emperor Wen Di, Empress Xuan, Consort Yue, and various civil and military officials gathered to see them off. Cheng Shaoshang handed Ling Buyi the armor she had sewn.

He noticed her pricked fingers and told her not to make armor for him again. She asked if he disliked the "mandarin duck wings" she had embroidered. He confessed he thought they were "chicken wings." She corrected him, explaining the mandarin ducks were meant to remind him that he had a fiancée waiting for him.

Ling Buyi’s subordinate found the "mandarin duck wings" on the armor embarrassing, making Ling Buyi jokingly lament not wanting to go to war because of the potential ridicule. Ling Buyi then offered to take over all future needlework, citing his experience with military repairs. Cheng Shaoshang also gave him a soft armor, woven from copper wire and hemp, that was both flexible and protective.

She had embroidered a small rabbit on it, but Ling Buyi again comically mistook it for a rat, to which Cheng Shaoshang, exasperated, reminded him she was born in the year of the rabbit. Emperor Wen Di and Consort Yue watched Ling Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang's affectionate farewell, with Consort Yue reminiscing about Emperor Wen Di's own eagerness to rush to her after his past victories. Emperor Wen Di acknowledged he too cherished those memories.

Cheng Shi, appointed to Tongniu County, observed the public display of affection with a touch of melancholy, feeling as though his daughter was already "water poured out," even before her formal marriage. He also grumbled that Cheng Shaoshang had sewn all night but hadn't made him any socks, a complaint Xiao Yuanyi countered by asking if he would even wear "chicken wings" like Ling Buyi. Ling Buyi promised Cheng Shaoshang he would come back alive.

Emperor Wen Di expressed his happiness for Ling Buyi and his hope for an end to wars, wishing for families to be reunited. He vowed to unify the land to ensure no more conflicts. Before Ling Buyi rode off, he entrusted Cheng Shaoshang with his mansion’s private seal, a gesture Empress Xuan interpreted as him entrusting his entire family wealth to her. She remarked that seeing lovers unite was the most beautiful thing in the world.

Consort Yue, however, privately reflected that she had never experienced such a feeling. Emperor Wen Di addressed the assembled soldiers, wishing them victory and a swift return, promising that he and their families would await their homecoming. The soldiers pledged their utmost loyalty. Ling Buyi then led the army out from the Command Altar, passing through the city gates, a silhouette of martial prowess.

Episode 42 Recap

The capital, now serene after the departure of the army, settled into quiet anticipation for Ling Buyi's victorious return and his wedding to Cheng Shaoshang. Cheng Shaoshang spent her days trying on wedding gowns and intricate jewelry. Yet, the preparations became a source of contention between Xiao Yuanyi, who favored understated elegance, and Old Madam Cheng, who insisted on opulent golden accessories, fearing inauspicious white ones and dismissing any non-traditional designs.

Cheng Shaoshang eventually announced that Empress Xuan had generously provided her entire wedding trousseau, crafted by palace artisans, and even designated a bridal chamber in Changqiu Palace for her to marry from. Old Madam Cheng rejoiced at the cost savings and prestige, while Xiao Yuanyi, despite acknowledging the imperial honor, felt a pang of maternal regret at not being able to personally oversee her daughter's momentous occasion.

Cheng Shaoshang often found herself on the palace walls, gazing towards Shouchun, longing for Ling Buyi's swift return. Yuan Shen, observing her pensive state, playfully remarked that she was turning into a "waiting-for-husband stone." Cheng Shaoshang retorted, teasing him for his solitude and inability to comprehend the profound connection she shared with Ling Buyi.

Stung, Yuan Shen declared he would marry before her and immediately tasked his steward with finding a bride superior to Cheng Shaoshang in every aspect—intellect, personality, and appearance. His choice fell upon Lady Cai, renowned for her literary talents. To further his challenge, Yuan Shen planned his wedding for the very same day as Cheng Shaoshang's, hoping to divert all attention. Cheng Shaoshang remained unfazed, humorously suggesting that Ling Buyi could lend him money for the hefty betrothal gifts.

She astutely pointed out that Yuan Shen, always pragmatic, must have weighed the benefits of this match carefully rather than acting purely out of pique. Yuan Shen then reminisced on his own distant parents, implying that he expected Cheng Shaoshang to also choose a spouse out of practical considerations rather than love.

Cheng Shaoshang, however, proudly affirmed her fortune in finding Ling Buyi and wished Yuan Shen similar happiness, though she playfully reminded him that as an engaged man, he could no longer hope to encounter anyone better. Meanwhile, Young Marquis Ban, whose grandfather, Marquis Ban, had ridden off to Shouchun, frequently visited the Cheng household. His shy affection for Cheng Yang was apparent to all.

Cheng Yang, however, declared her intention to remain unmarried, choosing instead to stay and care for Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi. Their conversation was abruptly interrupted when Cheng Shaogong's divination turtle shell fell and broke, a dire omen. The grim premonition was tragically realized when a report reached the capital: Cheng Shi and Yan Zhong, the County Governor of Tongniu, were accused of colluding to embezzle 2,000 jin of refined copper and defecting to the enemy.

Emperor Wen erupted in furious despair, railing for hours in the hall and refusing all food. Empress Xuan, despite her concern, could not reach him. It was Consort Yue who bravely entered, offering snacks and her counsel.

She keenly understood that Emperor Wen's anger transcended the mere loss of copper; it was a profound disappointment over the betrayal by commoners he had personally promoted, a blow to his vision for meritocracy, and a grave threat to Cheng Shaoshang and Ling Buyi's future.

Believing in Cheng Shi's character, Consort Yue advised Emperor Wen to maintain judicial impartiality, publicly punish the Cheng family according to the law to appease the court and the common people, and then secretly investigate the true depths of the conspiracy. Following her counsel, an imperial edict was issued, ordering the imprisonment of the entire Cheng family and the dismissal and detainment of its male members.

Notably, Cheng Shaoshang was exempted from punishment, deemed part of the Ling family due to her engagement. Defying the imperial exemption, Cheng Shaoshang insisted on returning to her family. Yuan Shen, swiftly arranging a horse cart for her, rushed to the palace to plead for the Cheng family. At the Cheng residence, General Zuo arrived to execute the imperial decree, revealing a personal vendetta against the family on behalf of Official Zuo.

Xiao Yuanyi fiercely resisted him, leveraging her own military honors and challenging his authority. As the confrontation escalated, Cheng Shaoshang appeared, publicly exposing the general's past grievances and accusing him of abusing his power. Just then, Yuan Shen arrived, holding a new imperial edict. He announced that the case was transferred to the Ministry of Justice for investigation, and his role was to "escort," not "arrest," the Cheng family.

In a desperate act to protect Cheng Shaoshang and ensure a surviving heir to clear their name, Xiao Yuanyi slapped her daughter, sternly ordering her to live on, regardless of the family's fate, as the last hope for their vindication. Understanding her mother's intent, Cheng Shaoshang watched in anguish as her family was led away. As a torrential rain began to fall, Cheng Shaoshang knelt outside the palace gates, begging Emperor Wen for an audience. He refused to see her.

Soon, the Crown Prince, recently released from detainment, joined her in kneeling. Empress Xuan, frail and delicate, then also appeared and knelt beside them. Consort Yue, concerned for the Empress's health, gently but firmly persuaded Emperor Wen to emerge. Seeing his family kneeling in the rain, Emperor Wen relented and summoned Cheng Shaoshang inside, ordering ginger soup to warm her. He admonished her for her apparent calm demeanor amidst her family's disaster.

Cheng Shaoshang calmly articulated her confusion, highlighting her father's lack of motive given his comfortable life and her impending marriage. She argued that these inconsistencies pointed to a hidden plot. Emperor Wen, while acknowledging his own doubts, stressed the lack of evidence and Cheng Shi's disappearance made it difficult to sway the court.

Cheng Shaoshang boldly offered to go to Tongniu County herself to find the missing copper and her father, citing her self-defense training from Ling Buyi and past experiences. However, Emperor Wen, worried about the dangers of the war-torn region near Shouchun, flatly refused her request. He ordered her confined to Changqiu Palace, declaring her actions as those of a "sinner."

Later, Yuan Shen visited the imprisoned Cheng family, bringing them food and updating them on the welfare of other family members: Cheng Zhi was detained at Bailu Academy, and Cheng Yong and his wife were held in the military camp without mistreatment. Old Madam Cheng, distraught by Cheng Zhi's imprisonment, frantically offered to pay any sum to free him, seeking to bribe their way out.

Xiao Yuanyi sharply admonished her, emphasizing that admitting guilt before the investigation was complete was premature and unacceptable. When Old Madam Cheng defiantly refused to eat, Xiao Yuanyi, demonstrating resilience, took the food herself, declaring that they must preserve their lives to witness their eventual exoneration. Cheng Yang and her brothers, inspired by Xiao Yuanyi's resolve, followed suit and began to eat.

Episode 43 Recap

Empress Xuan warmly welcomed Consort Yue, who had arrived to comfort her. Empress Xuan expressed her gratitude to Consort Yue for interceding on Cheng Shaoshang’s behalf, believing it was the reason Emperor Wen granted Shaoshang an audience. Consort Yue corrected her, stating that Emperor Wen had acted out of concern for Empress Xuan’s own well-being, seeing her pleading in the rain.

Empress Xuan then confessed her lingering guilt over the Emperor marrying her instead of Consort Yue due to the alliance with Prince Qian’an, feeling she had stolen Consort Yue's happiness. Consort Yue dismissed such notions, affirming that no one could force Emperor Wen to marry against his will. She recounted how she had expressed her anger years ago, even kicking Emperor Wen in bed, but had long since moved past it.

Consort Yue then gently advised Empress Xuan not to compare her relationship with the Emperor to others, emphasizing that Emperor Wen deeply cherished and respected her. She urged Empress Xuan to prioritize her own health, as her well-being was crucial for the Emperor and the children of Changqiu Palace. As Consort Yue prepared to leave, she affectionately called Empress Xuan her "Older Sister," urging her to take care. Upon returning to Changqiu Palace, Empress Xuan found Cheng Shaoshang despondent.

She reassured Shaoshang that both she and Emperor Wen believed in Cheng Shi’s innocence and were working to uncover the truth. Shaoshang, however, expressed deep worry for her entire family, from her parents and brothers to her cousin and even her grandmother. She pleaded to leave the palace to check on them, fearing for their comfort and safety in the prison.

Recognizing Shaoshang’s unwavering determination, Empress Xuan decided to grant her a permit to leave the palace and a document for border clearance, reassuring her that Emperor Wen would understand her desire to see her family and would not blame her. Later that night, as Shaoshang packed, Empress Xuan advised her to compose herself before facing her family. Shaoshang, in turn, expressed profound, everlasting gratitude for Empress Xuan’s kindness. Empress Xuan urged her to live a long and healthy life.

An attendant later discovered that Cheng Shaoshang had left behind the palace permit and border clearance documents. Empress Xuan realized Shaoshang had forged her own documents, finding a carving knife and wood shavings in her room, all to protect Empress Xuan from implication. She lamented Shaoshang's foolish selflessness. Cheng Shaoshang, using her forged permit, attempted to enter the Ministry of Justice. A guard stopped her, questioning her access to the restricted area.

Just as she presented her document, Yuan Shen appeared. He immediately recognized the permit as a fresh forgery, noting the undried ink, and admonished her for risking her life. Shaoshang thanked him for intervening, and he then directed her to where her family was being held, promising to wait for her.

Inside the jail, Xiao Yuanyi attempted to force Old Madam Cheng to drink a bowl of soup, but her mother-in-law vehemently refused, accusing Xiao Yuanyi of trying to poison her. Xiao Yuanyi explained that while she tolerated Old Madam Cheng's willfulness at home, such behavior was impractical in jail where medical care was scarce. She reiterated her promise to Cheng Shi to keep everyone safe until his return.

Old Madam Cheng accused Xiao Yuanyi of using the situation for revenge, specifically for not raising Cheng Shaoshang properly. Xiao Yuanyi retorted that her respect stemmed solely from Old Madam Cheng being Cheng Shi's mother, not out of fear. She stated that they were fundamentally strangers brought together by Cheng Shi, and she had no reason to fear her now. Old Madam Cheng was enraged, claiming her most respectable act was raising three sons.

Xiao Yuanyi dismissed this, stating that simply bearing children was no basis for arrogance. Infuriated, Old Madam Cheng threatened to report Xiao Yuanyi to her sons upon their return. Xiao Yuanyi defiantly offered to feed her a spoonful of soup for every insult. At that moment, Cheng Shaoshang arrived. Old Madam Cheng berated her for coming, insisting she should have stayed away.

Cheng Yang urged Shaoshang, as the future wife of a General, to find a way to save the family. Shaoshang vowed to clear her father’s name. Xiao Yuanyi, however, quickly intervened, telling Shaoshang to prioritize her own safety, avoid complications, and return to Changqiu Palace, emphasizing that her well-being was paramount. Old Madam Cheng then called Shaoshang closer, expressing concern for her health despite their short incarceration. She then secretly informed Shaoshang about hidden savings—her "lifeblood"—at the Cheng residence.

She instructed Shaoshang to retrieve the money and use it to save her father and two uncles, explicitly stating that the male family members should be saved first. Shaoshang realized her grandmother's underlying love for the family. Meanwhile, Ling Buyi's troops were on their way to Shouchun. His subordinates warned him that the route was rife with bandits and that the accompanying noble scions were pampered burdens.

Any harm to them would bring severe retribution from powerful families in the capital, who had already begun to mock Ling Buyi’s caution as cowardice. Suddenly, a report arrived that the noble scions, disregarding orders, had impulsively ventured out to suppress bandits. Ling Buyi saw an opportunity. He spread false news that the bandits had decisively defeated and captured the noble scions, making it seem his forces were weakened and preoccupied with rescue.

This ruse successfully fooled Peng Kun, who, thinking Ling Buyi was vulnerable, dispatched General Liang Yi to transport desperately needed provisions back to Shouchun. However, Liang Yi's convoy was ambushed by Ling Buyi’s forces, who unleashed a volley of arrows, trapping them. Ling Buyi confronted Liang Yi, mockingly declaring that his own forces were the true beneficiaries of the "fisherman's profit," while Liang Yi was merely a "turtle in a jar."

Liang Yi angrily accused Ling Buyi of using the noble scions as bait, to which Ling Buyi coolly clarified that his own men had captured the scions to create the illusion of a defeated vanguard, thereby luring Peng Kun into a false sense of security. Liang Yi, infuriated, verbally attacked Ling Buyi, calling him vile and cunning, and insulted his "chicken-like" armor. Ling Buyi calmly corrected him, stating it was "mandarin duck" armor, a detail Liang Yi continued to dispute.

Ling Buyi then acknowledged the potential political repercussions if the noble scions discovered they had been captured by his own forces. He stated that "only dead men are trustworthy" to keep such secrets. Liang Yi, fearing for his life, pleaded for mercy, reminding Ling Buyi that he was captured for information about Shouchun. He boastfully claimed Shouchun's defenses could withstand a siege for over a year.

Ling Buyi retorted that if Shouchun was so well-stocked, Peng Kun would not have risked sending Liang Yi out for provisions. With Liang Yi still refusing to cooperate, Ling Buyi ordered him to be taken away for further consideration while he and his lieutenants scouted the surrounding terrain. They learned that Shouchun was heavily fortified on all sides, with a wooden drawbridge acting as the city gate, controlled by ropes, and surrounded by a moat.

Ling Buyi rejected a direct assault with cavalry, citing the enemy's use of deer horn wood and punji stakes, and emphasizing that a frontal attack would lead to heavy casualties—a military taboo he was unwilling to impose on his loyal Black Armored Guards. Instead, he planned to cut off Shouchun's supply lines, predicting that without external support, the city would fall within a month without a direct siege.

His subordinates, in jest, expressed hope this meant he wouldn't miss his wedding to Cheng Shaoshang, and Ling Buyi assured them he would be there. An urgent report arrived from the capital: Tongniu County had fallen. County Governor Yan Zhong and General Cheng Shi were accused of defecting to the enemy with two thousand refined copper, their whereabouts unknown. The entire Cheng family had been imprisoned.

Ling Buyi immediately asked about Cheng Shaoshang, learning she had fled the capital overnight, her whereabouts also unknown. Further intelligence from a local source revealed that Ma Rong, a rebel general from Shouchun, had taken Tongniu County by deceit, using Yan Zhong's official seal to enter. Ma Rong had paraded Deputy County Governors Li Feng and Yin Lao, who refused to surrender, through the streets, with Li Feng loudly denouncing Yan Zhong and Cheng Shi as traitors.

Interestingly, Ma Rong had not harmed the common people and merely imprisoned Li Feng, suggesting his character might not be entirely evil. The capital, preoccupied with the unfolding crisis, had temporarily shelved the Cheng family case until Tongniu County could be recaptured. Ling Buyi also learned that the Censorate's Left Censor was relentlessly pushing for Cheng Shi's conviction, using Cheng Shaoshang's flight as "proof" of treason—a personal vendetta against Ling Buyi.

Despite the urgency, Ling Buyi refused a full-scale assault, prioritizing his troops’ lives over his personal distress, asserting he had a different plan. He ordered Liang Yi to be brought before him again. Ling Buyi brought Liang Yi back, once more asking if his armor depicted a "chicken or mandarin duck." Liang Yi, fearing for his life, now correctly identified it as a "mandarin duck." Satisfied, Ling Buyi released him.

Leveraging Liang Yi's transport of provisions, Ling Buyi discreetly infiltrated Shouchun, hiding inside one of the carts, evading the vigilant city guards. Under the cover of night, Ling Buyi sneaked into Peng Kun’s chambers. Startled, Peng Kun initially mistook him for the ghost of Huo Chong, begging for his life and denying involvement in Huo Chong’s demise, revealing his tormented conscience. Recognizing Ling Buyi, Peng Kun expressed surprise that Emperor Wen had sent him.

He then cryptically warned Ling Buyi that if he (Peng Kun) were harmed, Ling Buyi’s own father would suffer, hinting at a shared secret. Before Ling Buyi could press for more details, Madam Peng unexpectedly entered, shrieked at the sight of Ling Buyi, and fled, inadvertently alerting the entire city. Surrounded by Peng Kun’s soldiers, Ling Buyi quickly took Peng Kun hostage to escape.

Peng Kun, believing Ling Buyi trapped, mocked his foolishness, boasting that no matter his skill, he could not escape Shouchun alive. Ling Buyi retorted that his sword was faster than any arrow, and they could die together. Peng Kun, growing desperate, reiterated his veiled threat about Ling Buyi’s father and offered to reveal "the truth of Gu City's downfall" if released, claiming he was the sole keeper of this secret.

He then ordered his archers to kill Ling Buyi and himself if Ling Buyi dared to step outside the city. Outside, the Liang brothers, leading the Black Armored Guards, heard the commotion and launched a furious assault, deploying scaling ladders and battering rams against the city gate. However, the gate, a drawbridge, proved impenetrable from the outside. Inside, Ling Buyi realized the nature of the "drawbridge" gate.

He fiercely fought his way through hordes of soldiers, battling towards the iron chain mechanism controlling the gate. Peng Kun desperately commanded his men to stop Ling Buyi. After a bloody struggle, Ling Buyi successfully dismantled the mechanism, causing the massive gate to swing open. Seeing his defeat, Peng Kun lunged at Ling Buyi with a sword, but Ling Buyi was protected by the soft armor Cheng Shaoshang had crafted for him. The Black Armored Guards poured into the city.

Ling Buyi’s subordinates reported minimal casualties thanks to his swift action. Ling Buyi immediately ordered Peng Kun to be escorted back to the capital for trial. He then commanded that all rebels who had killed his soldiers be executed on the spot, but those who had not harmed soldiers or oppressed civilians should be spared. A subordinate jokingly remarked on Ling Buyi's newfound soft-heartedness since becoming involved with Cheng Shaoshang.

As his subordinates prepared to return to the capital, Ling Buyi declared a change of plans. He ordered the Black Armored Guards to proceed to Tongniu County. He reasoned that given General Cheng Shi was missing and his family imprisoned, Cheng Shaoshang would not simply flee but would certainly go to Tongniu County to uncover the truth.

Reinforcing this suspicion, his subordinates reported that Ma Rong, Peng Kun's deputy, after capturing Tongniu County, had surrendered to Lou Ben, the eldest son of the Lou family, within two days. Ling Buyi was convinced: Cheng Shaoshang was in Tongniu County.

Episode 44 Recap

After the battle in Shouchun concluded, Ling Buyi led his troops overnight to Tongniu County. There, he learned from Lou Ben that Ma Rong, whom Lou Ben had persuaded to surrender, had been assassinated by Peng Kun’s vice general only half a day later, leaving no witnesses. Ling Buyi found this sequence of events suspicious, questioning Lou Ben about the vice general’s motive given that Shouchun’s defeat was imminent.

Lou Ben explained that the vice general was intensely loyal to Peng Kun and was even considered a foster son. Ling Buyi then subtly implied that Lou Ben, being well-traveled and informed, should have known of this connection. He also pressed Lou Ben about the rumors of Yan Zhong’s defection and the whereabouts of General Cheng Shi and the refined copper.

Lou Ben asserted that County Assistant Governor Li Feng’s testimony and a letter of repentance found in the county office proved Yan Zhong’s betrayal, but claimed ignorance regarding General Cheng’s location. Ling Buyi read the repentance letter, noting its inscription "Greed has grown. Heart filled with regret." He sarcastically remarked that it was "forgivable" for Yan Zhong to betray for his family, but then contrasted this with County Assistant Governor Li Feng, who supposedly refused to surrender and was imprisoned.

Ling Buyi urged Lou Ben to release Li Feng to prevent loyal officials from being disheartened. Lou Ben claimed Ma Rong had intended to release Li Feng before his death and promised to do so immediately. However, at that moment, a soldier reported that the county office prison was on fire and Li Feng had perished. Ling Buyi and his men rushed to the scene of the prison fire and discovered Cheng Shaoshang lying unconscious.

She soon recovered and, upon seeing Ling Buyi, initially thought she was hallucinating. Ling Buyi was relieved she was unharmed and gently bandaged her wounds. He both playfully chided her for her reckless bravery in venturing to a battlefield alone and tenderly comforted her.

Cheng Shaoshang recounted her arduous journey from the capital, including being caught by Yuan Shen while attempting to visit her imprisoned family, having half her travel funds confiscated, and even hiding in a poop bucket to enter Tongniu County. She revealed that she intentionally stole biscuits to get arrested, as she believed Li Feng, being imprisoned, was central to the case. Ling Buyi, seeing her distress, apologized for not being there and vowed never to leave her again.

He assured her that she was not alone, affirming that as her future husband, he was now a part of the Cheng family, and promised they would uncover the truth of the Tongniu case together to rescue her family. Cheng Shaoshang then shared further details about Li Feng, whom she found odd. He had spoken confidently of getting a promotion and becoming rich once Lou Ben recovered Tongniu County.

As she spoke, Lou Ben appeared at the door, claiming to deliver the fire’s casualty list. Ling Buyi noticed his presence, and Cheng Shaoshang, clearly distrustful, curtly dismissed him. Lou Ben, feigning concern, offered an apology on behalf of his family. Ling Buyi questioned him about the fire's casualties and cause, to which Lou Ben reported eight deaths, including Li Feng, attributing the fire to Peng Kun’s spies who committed suicide.

Ling Buyi instructed Lou Ben to bury the dead and appoint County Assistant Governor Yin Lao as temporary county governor, promising him imperial rewards upon his return to the capital. Lou Ben modestly acknowledged the praise before leaving. Ling Buyi advised Cheng Shaoshang to conceal her suspicions from the astute Lou Ben. Cheng Shaoshang agreed, revealing that Li Feng's unusual calm in prison and his prior knowledge of Ma Rong's impending surrender made her suspicious.

She further recounted overhearing Li Feng's shouts about "burning your bridges" and "tying up loose ends" during the prison fire, strongly suggesting collusion. She worried about her father’s whereabouts and potential connection to the case. Ling Buyi, admitting he had underestimated Lou Ben’s ambition despite his admiration, concurred that obtaining evidence from him would be challenging but not impossible, as everyone has a weakness. He urged her to control her emotions to avoid alerting Lou Ben.

At Li Feng’s memorial hall, County Assistant Governor Yin Lao shared his condolences with Ling Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang, lamenting Li Feng’s orphaned upbringing and the tragedy of his death. He described Yan Zhong as arrogant, unkind, and seemingly incorruptible, often punishing even minor gratuities and pawning his own possessions for his sick mother. Yin Lao admitted he only believed Yan Zhong’s defection after Lou Ben presented the repentance letter.

Lou Ben then entered, ostensibly to pay respects, but subtly pressured Madam Li to take her travel funds and leave Tongniu County, calling it a "sad place." Madam Li agreed, stating she was already selling her house to return to her hometown.

Unaware of the underlying threat, Cheng Shaoshang continued to question Yin Lao, who reiterated Li Feng's account that Cheng Shi and Yan Zhong had used the pretext of securing the refined copper by moving it away from Shouchun, but Yan Zhong taking his family along strongly suggested defection. Yin Lao confessed that all his information came from Li Feng. As Madam Li left the hall, she deliberately caught Ling Buyi’s and Cheng Shaoshang’s eyes, then departed with a troubled expression.

Sensing an issue, they followed her. Throughout the day, she was seen moving and selling her belongings. Eventually, in a public square, she staged a loud argument with a pawnshop owner, accusing him of bullying her as a widow and trying to swindle her family heirloom, a jade pendant from her father-in-law, a former post sheriff. She dramatically stated she needed money to return to her hometown 30 li away. During this scene, she conspicuously dropped her pouch.

Cheng Shaoshang quickly retrieved the pouch, finding a silk document containing two different handwritings: one from Li Feng and a detailed county plan by Yan Zhong. She and Ling Buyi deduced that Madam Li's circuitous method of providing clues indicated she was being threatened by someone within the county office.

Recalling Madam Li’s contradictory remarks about her "father-in-law who was a post sheriff" (despite Li Feng being an orphan), needing extensive travel funds for a relatively short distance, and leaving a treasure for "family" when she had no children, Cheng Shaoshang realized the clues pointed to a post station 30 li outside Tongniu County. Ling Buyi immediately sent Liangqiu Qi and Liangqiu Fei to investigate.

They soon reported finding a mass grave containing the remains of Yan Zhong, his family (an elderly woman, a woman in her forties, and a child), and several guards who had accompanied General Cheng Shi to Tongniu County. Upon hearing this, Cheng Shaoshang was overcome with grief, frantically searching among the numerous bodies for her father.

Ling Buyi held her, assuring her that not finding his body was a good sign, indicating Cheng Shi was likely still alive and possibly recuperating elsewhere. To calm her, Ling Buyi used acupressure to put her to sleep.

When she awoke, still distressed, Liangqiu Fei, despite Ling Buyi’s orders, revealed the hardships Ling Buyi had endured: carrying Cheng Shaoshang for hours, rushing to Tongniu County without rest, and being severely wounded by Peng Kun in Shouchun, saved only by the armor she had given him. Cheng Shaoshang, realizing the extent of his sacrifice, was deeply moved. Ling Buyi confessed that he disregarded his own life when she was in danger.

He then shared his own past pain, how after his uncle's death and his mother's subsequent mental decline, no one cared if he hurt. He understood her burden as the last hope for her family, just as he felt like the last of the Huo family. He promised she would never fight alone again, that he would always protect her, and admitted his deep need for her. They embraced tenderly.

Meanwhile, back in the capital, various officials gathered outside the palace, some advocating for the Cheng family, others seeking to impeach them, all locked in heated disputes. Grand Tutor Lou, while acknowledging congratulations for his nephew Lou Ben, subtly jabbed at Official Zuo, hinting at his family's more confrontational nature. Wan Songbai openly mocked Official Zuo for prematurely condemning Yan Zhong based on rumors, now that it was clear Yan Zhong and his family were murdered loyalists.

Official Zuo retaliated by accusing the missing Cheng Shi of the murders and even implicated Cheng Shaoshang. The exchange escalated into a physical altercation, with Wan Songbai dislocating Official Zuo's arm. Emperor Wen Di, upon hearing the news, surprisingly cheered, expressing his deep annoyance with the constant bickering among his officials.

When Official Zuo, wailing, finally entered the court, Yuan Shen and Grand Tutor Lou colluded to cover for Wan Songbai, claiming Official Zuo had merely slipped, and Wan Songbai's attempt to help had accidentally caused the dislocation. Official Zuo then renewed his accusations, citing Ling Buyi’s letter confirming Yan Zhong’s family was annihilated, and demanded the execution of the entire Cheng family and Cheng Shaoshang's recall for punishment.

To resolve the impasse, Wen Di proposed a compromise: Official Zuo himself would travel to Tongniu County to escort Cheng Shaoshang back to the capital. Despite Official Zuo’s reluctance and fear of Ling Buyi, he was compelled to accept the assignment, especially after Yuan Shen’s endorsement. Having settled the Cheng family matter, Wen Di then praised Lou Ben’s "indispensable" achievement in peacefully recovering Tongniu County, crediting his extensive connections, and announced his intention to promote him to the court.

Grand Tutor Lou, though pleased, attempted to downplay his nephew’s accomplishments as mere coincidence. However, Wen Di asserted his firm decision to reward merit and punish wrongdoing, dismissing any further debate. Ling Buyi later confronted Lou Ben, attempting to glean further information. He questioned how Lou Ben, without military engagement, had managed to persuade Ma Rong, a fiercely loyal vice general of Peng Kun, to surrender.

Lou Ben smoothly reiterated his prior explanation: his friendship with Ma Rong from his travels and the Emperor's benevolence. Ling Buyi then shifted his line of inquiry, revealing his knowledge that County Governor Yan Zhong also had a close friend from a noble family, a relationship kept secret and meetings conducted privately. Ling Buyi directly asked if Lou Ben was aware of this, a question designed to test Lou Ben's knowledge and potentially expose his deeper involvement.

Episode 45 Recap

Ling Buyi's pointed remarks about Official Yan Zhong's secret aristocratic friend made Lou Ben noticeably uneasy. After a brief silence, Lou Ben forced a smile and admitted that he was indeed Yan Zhong's old acquaintance. He explained that he connected with Yan Zhong because they both felt frustrated by unfulfilled ambitions. However, Lou Ben claimed their friendship was superficial.

He then shifted the blame, stating that Yan Zhong, in a desperate attempt to save his elderly mother and young children, had offered 2,000 jin of refined copper to Ma Rong, but Ma Rong, being ruthless, betrayed him and massacred the entire Yan Clan. Ling Buyi subtly congratulated Lou Ben on his imminent promotion, hinting at the benefits he would gain from this "feat." Lou Ben, appearing composed, excused himself to prepare for his return to the capital.

Cheng Shaoshang, witnessing the exchange, quickly questioned Ling Buyi on how Lou Ben knew about the bodies at the post station, a detail that hadn't been publicly disclosed. She deduced that Lou Ben's slip-up indicated his involvement in Yan Zhong's death and her father's disappearance.

Ling Buyi confirmed that he had suspected Lou Ben since arriving in Tongniu County, noting that Lou Ben lacked the authority to persuade Ma Rong to surrender and recalling Li Feng's dying words about betrayal, which he believed referred to Lou Ben. He cautioned Shaoshang against confronting Lou Ben without solid evidence, fearing it would alert him.

Despite the Emperor's summons for them to return to the capital, Ling Buyi stated his intention to remain, believing that Ma Rong, a cunning individual, must have left behind incriminating evidence of Lou Ben's crimes within Tongniu County. He invoked the saying that a general abroad can sometimes disregard imperial orders to handle emergencies.

Meanwhile, in prison, Cheng Shaogong consulted his divination, predicting their salvation, but Cheng Song remained cynical, lamenting his impending death before marrying Wan Qiqi, whom he dearly missed. Unexpectedly, Wan Qiqi arrived, having bribed the guards, and dramatically shed her outer garment to reveal a red wedding gown. She vowed to marry only Cheng Song and to remain a widow if the Cheng family were to meet an unjust end. Cheng Song, unwilling to burden her, initially refused.

However, Wan Qiqi, pulling out scissors, threatened to cut her hair and become a nun if he didn't accept her. Moved by her unwavering loyalty, Old Madam Cheng, who had previously opposed Cheng Song marrying into the Wan family, declared Wan Qiqi her granddaughter-in-law and agreed to Cheng Song marrying into the Wan family. Even Xiao Yuanyi, surprisingly, offered no objection.

She confessed that their past quarrels seemed trivial in the face of their shared predicament, realizing that in times of crisis, they were truly family, united in protecting their children. The two women put aside their past grievances, solidifying their reconciliation. Upon his return to the capital, Lou Ben was hailed as a hero and greatly favored by the Emperor. The Lou family hosted a grand banquet in his honor.

Lou Li, his younger sister, proudly showed off a bronze mirror Lou Ben had personally polished and carved with the poem "Jian Jia" in ten different scripts, a love token for his wife, Wang Yanji. Cheng Shaoshang, having overheard this, requested to examine the mirror, which solidified her suspicions.

Soon after, Ling Buyi arrived with his black-armored guards, publicly accusing Lou Ben of conspiring with Peng Kun's general, Ma Rong, to lure Official Yan Zhong into entrusting his family and 2,000 jin of refined copper to Ma Rong, only to have them all massacred. Ling Buyi further exposed how Lou Ben then manipulated the situation to appear as though he had persuaded Ma Rong to surrender, ultimately framing Marquis Quling, Cheng Shi.

Lou Ben vehemently denied the accusations and demanded evidence. Suddenly, Yuan Shen interjected, exposing Lou Ben's cunning plan to use others as tools. He revealed that Ma Rong's deputy was Peng Kun's foster son, implying that Ma Rong's "death" was an orchestrated act of revenge, which Lou Ben instigated. Ling Buyi then produced letters discovered in the county office, written by Lou Ben to Official Yan.

These letters meticulously detailed their clandestine meetings, their growing acquaintance, and Lou Ben's instructions for Yan Zhong to leave the city with his family, joining Cheng Shi's supply convoy at a specific time and location. Lou Ben still attempted to deny the handwriting, but Ling Buyi presented the bronze mirror, pointing out that the diverse scripts carved on it perfectly matched those in the incriminating letters, thus confirming his culpability. Faced with undeniable evidence, Lou Ben finally confessed.

His mother and Lou Yao were heartbroken, while Wang Yanji was distraught. Lou Ben advised his wife to remarry, feeling unworthy of her. He justified his actions by explaining his deep-seated ambition and a desire to elevate his family, constantly feeling suppressed by Grand Tutor Lou and overlooked by the Crown Prince despite his talent. He expressed his disdain for starting as a low-ranking official, believing it would stifle his grand aspirations.

He accused Grand Tutor Lou of selfishly hindering his career by modestly declining recommendations from the Crown Prince, prioritizing his own sons' advancement over Lou Ben's. Cheng Shaoshang demanded to know Cheng Shi's whereabouts. Lou Ben requested a private conversation, during which he presented her with a meticulously hand-drawn map of the country, stating it was an apology and a gift to help her find perspective when trapped in difficult situations.

He then spoke cryptically about the interconnectedness of cause and effect. Outside the hall, the onlookers grew anxious. Lou Ben emerged, briefly holding Cheng Shaoshang. Ling Buyi ordered the black-armored guards to control Wang Yanji and warned Lou Ben against further destruction. With a final address to Lou Yao, urging him to uphold the Lou family, and a poignant farewell to Wang Yanji, acknowledging he couldn't fulfill their dream of visiting Penglai paradise, Lou Ben tragically took his own life.

Wang Yanji, devastated, rushed to his body, revealing in her grief that she was pregnant with their child. As Ling Buyi reflected on the tragic turn of events, Cheng Shaoshang pondered Lou Ben's cryptic words: "The cause is the effect, and the effect is the cause." Connecting this to the origin of the conflict—the 2,000 jin of refined copper—she realized that the "effect" would lead her to her father. Concluding that Cheng Shi must be imprisoned in the Tongniu copper mine, she swiftly called for her horse, determined to find him.

Episode 46 Recap

As Cheng Shaoshang had deduced, the root cause of the recent events stemmed from the two thousand refined copper. Following this clue, Cheng Shi was discovered at the copper mine in Tongniu County. After five days of recuperation, he gradually recovered under the diligent care of Xiao Yuanyi, to whom he recounted the full story. Cheng Shi explained that he and Yan Zhong had discussed how to handle the two thousand refined copper.

Fearing that the military supplies would be plundered if Tongniu County fell, Cheng Shi proposed moving the copper outside the city for safekeeping. However, they were ambushed on the way, and Ma Rong not only stole the cart but also brutally murdered Yan Zhong and his entire family. Cheng Shi, injured, barely escaped with his life, eventually collapsing in the bushes.

When he regained consciousness, he found himself in a small hut, being told by Lou Ben that he was rescued by local miners. Lou Ben then deceived him, claiming that Tongniu had fallen, county assistant governor Li Feng had framed him and Yan Zhong for treason with the refined copper, and the Emperor had ordered their capture.

He convinced Cheng Shi to stay hidden in the mining area, warning that if he appeared prematurely, Ma Rong’s spies would intercept and kill him, leading to the imprisonment of the entire Cheng family. Lou Ben promised to relay news of Cheng Shi's survival to his family and assured him that they would reunite once his innocence was proven. Cheng Shi, fearing for his family, reluctantly stayed in hiding, enduring much frustration.

Xiao Yuanyi pointed out that Lou Ben had acted kindly only because his plans had failed; otherwise, he would have killed Cheng Shi. Just then, Old Madam Cheng burst into the room, wailing and complaining about her suffering and the family's financial losses. She criticized Cheng Shi for his apparent lack of concern, claiming she had spent all her "coffin money" and that her savings had enabled Cheng Shaoshang's journey to save Cheng Shi himself, allowing the family to survive.

Cheng Shi, surprised by her seemingly well-fed appearance after her time in prison, was then even more astonished to see Xiao Yuanyi gently placate Old Madam Cheng. Cheng Shi wondered what had happened in his absence to mend their contentious relationship. Xiao Yuanyi calmly explained that they had realized they needed to be united against outsiders.

With the Lou Ben case finally resolved, the Lou family elders reprimanded Grand Tutor Lou for hindering his nephews' futures, which ultimately led to disaster. Grand Tutor Lou, in turn, shifted all blame onto his wife, accusing her of lacking filial piety, virtue, and alienating his kin. Consequently, First Madam Lou was sent back to her maiden home. The second branch of the Lou family, still reeling from their profound grief, decided to relocate to Hua County.

Cheng Shaoshang, accompanied by Ling Buyi, personally went to bid farewell to Lou Yao. She felt immense guilt over the recent events. Lou Yao, though a person of great integrity, was still struggling with the sight of his brother's death and found it difficult to recover. He acknowledged that Cheng Shaoshang had done nothing wrong and that his brother was entirely at fault.

He reminisced about his time in Hua County as the happiest of his life, only to add that he now wished he had never met her or gone there, as the memory only brought him pain. He confessed that for the immediate future, he did not know how to face her and could not let go of the past. As Lou Yao boarded his horse cart, He Zhaojun approached Cheng Shaoshang to say goodbye.

She was no longer the spoiled, willful girl of the past, but carried herself with confidence and strength, offering heartfelt advice. She promised that if they met again, she would treat Cheng Shaoshang to a feast. However, she also made it clear that while Lou Yao was a man of integrity, their current family situation meant they did not welcome Cheng Shaoshang, and she implied that Cheng Shaoshang's presence was hurting Lou Yao.

Cheng Shaoshang had not seen Wang Yanji since Lou Ben's death, later learning that Wang Yanji had drowned herself in the river to join her husband. The river current that night was rapid, and despite the Lou family guards diving in, they could not recover her body or that of her unborn child.

Cheng Shaoshang felt profound sorrow, remembering how Wang Yanji had often helped her and, apart from Lou Yao, was the kindest person to her in the Lou family. She reflected on how Lou Ben had taken a wrong step that led him to a point of no return. Moved by these tragic events, Cheng Shaoshang earnestly reminded Ling Buyi that she sought neither wealth nor glory, but only peace and joy.

She urged them both never to make a misstep, lest they live to regret it. Ling Buyi paused, seemingly troubled by her words, but chose not to confide in her. Instead, he proposed visiting his mother at Xinghua Courtyard, mentioning that her illness had worsened. At Xinghua Courtyard, Huo Junhua, despite her failing health, appeared lively. She lovingly prepared almond cakes, calling Ling Buyi by his childhood nickname, "A-Li."

Cheng Shaoshang, wanting to give mother and son private time, left with Cui You. Cui You explained that Huo Junhua, born prematurely and frail since childhood, had been pampered but later risked her life to give birth to Ling Buyi for Ling Yi, leading to her current weakened state, which he described as an oil lamp running out of fuel.

He added that Ling Buyi was also a premature baby, resembling a kitten when born, which is why he was given the nickname "A-Li" for safety. He recounted that General Huo Chong’s son, Huo Wushang, was the same age as Ling Buyi, and they looked so similar that Huo Junhua enjoyed dressing them identically to confuse General Huo. Ling Yi, however, often mistook them due to his lack of involvement in Ling Buyi's upbringing.

Cui You also contrasted their personalities: Ling Buyi was lively and loved almond cakes, while Huo Wushang was quiet, studious, and allergic to almonds but still picked them for Ling Buyi. Cui You then implored Cheng Shaoshang to ensure Ling Buyi, as the last surviving member of the Huo family, would no longer risk his life.

He even offered to double her dowry to ensure she could stand tall against Princess Yuchang, who was renowned for her accomplishments, unlike Cheng Shaoshang's reputation for poor needlework, once making a "chicken wing" out of an embroidered mandarin duck. Offended, Cheng Shaoshang declared their fate had run out and abruptly left. On the journey back, Ling Buyi suddenly developed a high fever and a rash, collapsing in Cheng Shaoshang’s arms.

Upon their return to the manor, physicians confirmed he had consumed almonds, causing the allergic reaction, but assured his men he would recover overnight. His subordinates speculated that Cheng Shaoshang had left without waiting for him to wake up because she was angry at his carelessness.

However, Ling Buyi, barely recovered, immediately rose from his bed and led his men to abduct Peng Kun from the Ministry of Justice, bringing him to the Northern Army Prison for a brutal interrogation regarding the Gu City case. Ling Buyi promised to torture Peng Kun mercilessly, each whip landing in the same spot until he confessed.

Peng Kun, showing no remorse, defiantly stated his motives: he and his soldiers risked their lives while Lord Qian'an reaped the benefits and blocked his promotion. He considered Junior Lord Qian'an useless and thought Huo Chong was simply unlucky that Gu City couldn't be rescued in time. When Ling Buyi pressed him on Ling Yi's involvement, Peng Kun taunted him, accusing him of betraying his own "biological father" to curry favor with the Wen family.

Ling Buyi, enraged, vowed to make Peng Kun suffer a fate worse than death, listing over a hundred methods of torture available in the prison. That same night, Cheng Shaoshang tossed and turned, replaying recent events in her mind. A bold theory began to form. Empress Xuan arrived at her room, having seen her light still on.

The Empress admitted she hadn't been sleeping well and expressed her worries about the Crown Prince, who had been implicated by the downfall of the Lou family and others associated with him. Cheng Shaoshang blamed herself for exposing Lou Ben, thereby indirectly harming the Crown Prince. However, Empress Xuan gently reassured her, admiring her courage and wishing she had been as brave to save her own parents in the past.

She urged Cheng Shaoshang not to worry about the Crown Prince's affairs and to focus on her marriage with Ling Buyi. Cheng Shaoshang then asked Empress Xuan about Ling Buyi's childhood. Empress Xuan revealed that Ling Buyi was once a joyful child, but became quiet and stoic like Huo Wushang after the tragic events of Gu City. She explained that Ling Buyi believed he had to live for the deceased Huo Wushang and could not be reckless.

The Empress expressed her relief that Ling Buyi had Cheng Shaoshang in his life and encouraged her not to worry, saying he always acted with a sense of proportion. Cheng Shaoshang then requested Empress Xuan to stay with her for the night. The next morning, Wang Ling burst into Changqiu Palace, crying and kneeling before Cheng Shaoshang, begging her to convince Ling Buyi to stop torturing her husband, Peng Kun, so their unborn child wouldn't lose its father.

Cheng Shaoshang was perplexed by Wang Ling's deep devotion to a man guilty of such heinous crimes. Wang Ling, however, vehemently defended Peng Kun, claiming he was the most affectionate person to her, unlike her own negligent family. She recounted how he had planted rare flowers in their courtyard despite his asthma, just to make her happy, and had risked his life to save her from a fire.

Cheng Shaoshang countered that Peng Kun's treason was a capital offense that she couldn't influence. Wang Ling clarified that she wasn't asking for a pardon, but for Ling Buyi to stop his "inhumane methods" of interrogation in the Northern Army Prison, accusing him of using unauthorized torture to force a confession. Cheng Shaoshang, stating Peng Kun's guilt was undeniable and required no forced confession, refused to help.

As Wang Ling departed, heartbroken, she warned Cheng Shaoshang that she knew nothing about Ling Buyi, calling him the most unpredictable and terrifying man in the world, a fact she claimed her husband's extensive network of spies in the capital had confirmed.

Episode 47 Recap

Ling Buyi secretly intercepted and interrogated Peng Kun without His Majesty's prior approval, and the matter quickly reached the Ministry of Justice. When Yuan Shen arrived at the inner prison, Peng Kun was already severely wounded and weak. Peng Kun, defiant under torture, declared he didn't fear death for treason, stating, "If you want to kill me, it's up to you."

Ling Buyi, unyielding, threatened that if Peng Kun refused to speak, he would remain silent for the rest of his life. Yuan Shen intervened, calling Ling Buyi "mad" for interrogating an imperial prisoner privately. Though Yuan Shen condemned Peng Kun's disloyalty for plotting rebellion and his immorality for murdering Lord Qian'an, who had treated him like a brother, he insisted that the law must be followed and only His Majesty could order Peng Kun's death.

Disregarding any obstruction, Yuan Shen insisted on taking Peng Kun away to the Ministry of Justice, accusing Ling Buyi of deliberately breaking the law and embarrassing His Majesty. When Ling Buyi challenged him, Yuan Shen retorted, "Then you'll have to step over my dead body." He also warned Ling Buyi to think carefully, declaring that if Ling Buyi caused Cheng Shaoshang any more trouble, he would take his place.

The next morning, as Wang Ling tearfully complained at Changqiu Palace, an argument erupted in court. Official Zuo tried to impeach Ling Buyi, criticizing him for brutally torturing Peng Kun. Cheng Shaoshang and the Third Prince immediately defended Ling Buyi. Cheng Shaoshang sarcastically asked if the Censorate blamed Ling Buyi for pregnant women's miscarriages, implying they were idle. The Third Prince added that Ling Buyi was merely anxious to convict a traitor.

The Crown Prince attempted to mediate, suggesting a misunderstanding, but Wen Di ordered them to cease arguing. Cheng Shaoshang clarified that she had only gagged Wang Ling with a handkerchief, not physically harmed her, leading to a comedic exchange where Official Zuo accused her of using a sock and Cheng Shaoshang humorously asked if he had smelled it. Ling Buyi then stepped in to defend Cheng Shaoshang, insulting Official Zuo and declaring that he himself could insult such "important officials."

He stated that Peng Kun's involvement in both treason and the Gu City breach justified his actions. Cheng Shaoshang explained, based on information from Wang Ling, that Peng Kun was forced into rebellion by a mastermind in the capital, linked to the Gu City case. She argued that Ling Buyi's actions aimed to quickly uncover this true culprit.

Official Zuo insisted that Ling Buyi should not be involved due to personal ties to Gu City, but Ling Buyi asserted that his connection made him the most suitable to bring justice to the deceased souls. Wen Di ultimately decreed that Ling Buyi and the Ministry of Justice would jointly investigate the case, with the Third Prince monitoring to prevent torture. Cheng Shaoshang then requested His Majesty to pardon Wang Ling's unborn child, offering to persuade Peng Kun to confess.

Wen Di, believing children to be innocent, agreed to spare Peng Kun's wife and child if he cooperated. After the morning court session, Cheng Shaoshang angrily walked ahead, ignoring Ling Buyi. He caught up to her, asking what Wang Ling had told her. Cheng Shaoshang revealed that Wang Ling had exposed Ling Buyi's deep schemes.

She accused him of deliberately allowing Marquis Yue to collude with Liang Xia to murder Liang Shang and frame the Crown Prince, all to expose Marquis Yue. She also claimed he knew about Madam Wen Xiu's illegal coin minting in Shouchun but never informed Empress Xuan or tried to stop it, preferring His Majesty to be disappointed in the Empress and Crown Prince.

Furthermore, she believed he intentionally escalated the Fifth Princess's incident to force Marquis Yue to attack the Eastern Palace, ultimately revealing himself. Cheng Shaoshang felt that everyone saw her as Ling Buyi's reckless accomplice, but in reality, she was merely his shield. She declared that she could not bear the accusation of being the root of all trouble. Ling Buyi calmly asked if she was finished, then proceeded to explain his actions.

He clarified that the Crown Prince, though perceived as incompetent, was easily swayed by advisors like Wang Chun and Grand Tutor Lou, whom he described as an "incompetent person who indulges in worldly pleasures" and a "hypocrite who's complacent," respectively. Ling Buyi explained that if these "useless officials" weren't removed, the Crown Prince would inevitably make more mistakes, equating it to being unable to cultivate precious plants without first removing weeds.

Cheng Shaoshang questioned if he was indeed behind all these actions. He affirmed his love for her, assuring her that everything he did for her came from the heart, though he admitted that those he plotted against "deserved to be punished" or were "not worthy of their positions." She expressed her desire to truly understand him, especially as they were soon to marry, asking if he had any other significant secrets. As Ling Buyi began to confess, "Actually, I. .

." , he was interrupted by a messenger from the Crown Prince, summoning him to the Eastern Palace. Cheng Shaoshang watched him leave, contemplating his deep ties to the Crown Prince. At the Eastern Palace, the Crown Prince, at Ling Yi's request, tried to reconcile Ling Buyi with his adoptive father, proposing they share a meal. Ling Buyi politely declined, citing his duty to assist the Ministry of Justice in the Peng Kun case.

Ling Yi then attempted to appeal to him emotionally, saying he wished to speak with his son before the wedding. Ling Buyi, however, saw through his pretense, questioning why Ling Yi was so anxious about his investigation into Peng Kun that he would attempt to stall it. When Ling Yi feigned concern for Ling Buyi's health, Ling Buyi dismissed his "meaningless words" and "pretense," telling him to save such acts for Madam Chunyu.

Ling Buyi then abruptly left the Eastern Palace. Later, Wang Ling, who had brought food and wine to visit Peng Kun as per His Majesty's decree, arrived at the Ministry of Justice to find him dead. The clerk reported that Peng Kun had died of an asthma attack, an old illness exacerbated by his solitary confinement, which prevented anyone from discovering him in time to provide treatment.

Ling Yi, also present, callously remarked that it was "retribution" for Peng Kun's role in killing Lord Qian'an and causing the breach of Gu City, and that Ling Buyi could now finally be at ease and marry Shaoshang. Ling Buyi, however, was unconvinced, directly confronting Ling Yi and accusing him of the murder. Ling Yi denied it, calling it an accident. Furious but lacking concrete evidence, Ling Buyi left the Ministry of Justice.

Devastated by the loss of this crucial lead, Ling Buyi sought solace in alcohol, breaking down and weeping in the pouring rain. Cheng Shaoshang found him and, heartbroken, embraced him. She reassured him that if he couldn't accomplish something, no one else could. Ling Buyi confessed his despair, feeling powerless despite his perceived capabilities. He spoke of seeing blood-soaked figures in his mind, constantly questioning why he hadn't avenged them for over a decade.

He felt that all his efforts had amounted to nothing and that he had no way out. Cheng Shaoshang comforted him, insisting there must be a way and urging him to confide in her, his future wife, so she could share his burden. He lamented that it was a "dead end," but she reaffirmed her unwavering support, promising to stand by him no matter what. He once again began to reveal his true identity ("Actually, my name isn't. . ."

), but was interrupted by a guard rushing in with the urgent news that Madam Huo Junhua was on her deathbed. Ling Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang rushed to Xinghua Courtyard, which now felt like a place between life and death. Cui You sat by Huo Junhua's bed, his face haggard and stained with silent tears. Huo Junhua, no longer in her usual state of dementia, experienced a moment of lucidity.

She expressed regret to Cui You, whom she called "A-Yuan," for not having married him, lamenting that she wouldn't have ended up in such a miserable state. Ling Buyi then approached her. Her gaze, shifting from pain and regret, fixed on him with fierce, intense hatred. She repeatedly exhorted him, "Don't forget our revenge." Ling Buyi solemnly promised, "I'll never forget it. I shall avenge us." With his promise, Huo Junhua collapsed onto the bed and passed away.

That night, a torrential rain battered Xinghua Courtyard. The next morning, Ling Buyi dismissed everyone and knelt alone in the ancestral hall before Huo Junhua's ancestral tablet, appearing expressionless and hollow. Cheng Shaoshang, bringing him medicinal soup, asked what he had intended to tell her the previous night. She reiterated her deep love and trust, declaring her willingness to accept anything he disclosed.

She acknowledged his deep pain regarding the Gu City case and his dedication to the Huo clan, and gently suggested that now that Peng Kun was dead and the case seemed to have concluded, he could finally lay down his desire for vengeance and trust her before their marriage. Ling Buyi then asked her, "If I do something that shakes the world one day, would you still feel the same for me?"

Cheng Shaoshang, standing before Huo Junhua's coffin, solemnly swore an oath to the ancestors and deities, vowing eternal love and faithfulness to Ling Buyi, promising never to forsake him if he didn't forsake her. To seal her oath, she "formed a bond with a bite" on her arm, challenging him to do the same. She then pressed him one last time for the truth.

He responded with a hypothetical question: "If someone hurts your family and you know that person is guilty but you can't punish him by law, what will you do?" Cheng Shaoshang fiercely declared that she would not forgive such a person, and would return their pain a thousandfold, reiterating her unwavering support. Ling Buyi then replied, "No," indicating he had no further confessions. Suddenly, Ling Yi and Madam Chunyu arrived at the funeral hall.

Cui You, enraged, attacked Ling Yi, calling him "scum." Madam Chunyu furiously defended Ling Yi, accusing Cui You of slandering Huo Junhua and calling him and Huo Junhua "adulterers." Ling Buyi intervened to stop the fight. Madam Chunyu then explained that Ling Yi's 50th birthday was in seven days, and Ling clan members had already arrived in the capital for the banquet, which Ling Yi had intended to invite Huo Junhua to.

Ling Buyi, to everyone's surprise, agreed to attend the birthday banquet and bring a gift from his deceased mother. Cheng Shaoshang, witnessing this unexpected agreement, sensed a profound shift in Ling Buyi's resolve.

Episode 48 Recap

Ling Buyi's sudden decision to return home and visit Ling Yi, a stark contrast to his past refusal to do so even at the cost of being called disloyal and defying the Emperor, filled Madam Chunyu with suspicion. She expressed her fear to Ling Yi that Huo Junhua might have revealed the truth about Ling Yi's actions against the Huo family in Gu City before her death.

Ling Yi, however, angrily slapped Madam Chunyu, accusing her of attempting to sow discord between him and his son. He claimed Huo Junhua had obstructed their father-son relationship, and now that she was gone, Ling Buyi was finally coming home after fifteen years. He then harshly reminded Madam Chunyu of her inability to bear a son and threatened to kill her if she dared to speak such nonsense again, suggesting she could then reunite with Huo Junhua.

Feeling utterly disheartened by Ling Yi's cruelty, Madam Chunyu reflected on her years of devoted service and how Ling Yi had insisted on marrying her before his first wife was found, leading to public scorn. She tearfully recounted how she had lost a child due to Huo Junhua's assault, leaving her childless, and accused Ling Yi of heartlessly exploiting this wound.

Realizing that Ling Yi cared only for his biological son, she declared her intention to find her own path, leaving him to his desired reunion. Meanwhile, with only three days left until the wedding, Empress Xuan explained to Cheng Shaoshang that Emperor Wen Di decreed for the marriage to proceed during the mourning period for Madam Huo. Delaying it for three years would be too long for the Emperor.

The Empress expressed regret that the ceremony would have to be simple, but Cheng Shaoshang reassured her, noting the grand dowries were already more than her small house could hold. The Empress then mentioned that Ling Buyi was constructing a new residence based on Cheng Shaoshang’s own design, assuring her there would be ample space for all her dowries.

As Cheng Shaoshang prepared to leave the palace, the Empress advised her not to expect Ling Buyi, as it was considered bad luck for the couple to meet privately before the wedding day. Despite this, Ling Buyi appeared, intending to see Cheng Shaoshang off. Cheng Shaoshang reiterated the Empress’s words about not meeting before the wedding and asked if he had anything to tell her. Ling Buyi, however, remained silent, leaving Cheng Shaoshang frustrated by his continued reticence.

That evening, as dark clouds gathered, the Cheng family home was brightly lit, with female relatives surrounding Cheng Shaoshang as she tried on her phoenix crown and wedding gown. Her cousin complimented the gown, mentioning that Xiao Yuanyi had also prepared one for her. Cheng Shaoshang, now more mature, suggested her cousin could use it instead.

She expressed gratitude to her cousin for managing the household during her time in the palace, adding that with her cousin's capable and humble nature, her mother might not feel too much loss after she married. Cheng Shaoshang then revealed her somber perspective on marriage, stating that a lady's life becomes intertwined with her husband's, and if he were to face danger, she would not be able to return home either. Outside, Xiao Yuanyi found Cheng Shi openly weeping.

He lamented that Cheng Shaoshang had barely been with them for a year before marrying and expressed his sorrow at entrusting her to Ling Buyi. Xiao Yuanyi teased him, but later confessed to Cheng Shi that her heart was pounding, finding Cheng Shaoshang's words unsettling, like a farewell. Cheng Shi dismissed her fears, thanking her for their three sons and for their clever, dutiful daughter, calling her the best wife and mother.

Meanwhile, Ling Buyi arrived at Marquis Chengyang's Residence for Ling Yi’s 50th birthday banquet, accompanied by the Liang brothers. He presented two boxes as a "grand gift" from himself and Madam Huo. When Ling Yi inquired about their meaning, Ling Buyi revealed the gift was the gardener from the Ministry of Justice's prison, whose head was in one of the boxes.

Ling Buyi exposed Ling Yi's bribe of 30,000 qian to the gardener, instructing him to scatter petals into Peng Kun's cell, causing Peng Kun's death. Ling Buyi stated he was returning both the money and the head, asking Ling Yi if he was satisfied. He then chillingly added that if not, on behalf of the 3,000 dead souls of Gu City, he wished Ling Yi would die at the age of fifty that very night.

Ling Yi, attempting to manipulate Ling Buyi, questioned if his son truly intended to kill him after fifteen years. He feigned confusion about Ling Buyi's loyalty to the Huo family over his own, despite bearing the Ling surname, and asked if Ling Buyi truly desired to know his origins. Ling Buyi hinted that he might not grant Ling Yi the "truth" he sought.

As the banquet guests suddenly revealed themselves to be assassins, Ling Yi theatrically ordered them not to point their swords at his son, before appealing to Ling Buyi, claiming he knew Ling Buyi was just throwing a tantrum and that there were no lasting grudges between a father and son. He asserted that he didn't believe Ling Buyi would truly kill him and boasted about his extensive life experience, implying he wouldn't be caught unprepared.

Ling Buyi cut him off, stating that the Huo family would explain everything to Ling Yi in the underworld. Back at the Cheng residence, Cheng Shaoshang, no longer willing to wait, removed her crown, declaring there was no need to adapt to it. She instructed her servant Lianfang to prepare a backup gift and ordered Fu Deng to deliver it immediately to Marquis Chengyang's Residence.

Fu Deng soon returned, reporting that residence guards had blocked his entry, stating that a banquet was ongoing and only invited guests could enter. He found it strange, however, that there was no celebratory music, confirming Cheng Shaoshang's growing unease. Determined to reach Ling Buyi, Cheng Shaoshang tried to leave. Her mother, Xiao Yuanyi, attempted to stop her, citing the curfew and military deployment, and urged her to send word to the palace instead of risking herself.

Cheng Shaoshang steadfastly replied that she could not stand by when it concerned Ling Buyi. When her mother mentioned that the Emperor and Empress would handle it, Cheng Shaoshang asserted that although she might be powerless, "we only live once. I have to try my best no matter what." Outside the Marquis Chengyang's Residence, guards announced a lockdown ordered by the Crown Prince's tiger seal, forbidding passage.

Cheng Shi, seeing his daughter's resolve, declared that he and Xiao Yuanyi would clear the way for her, vowing to fight anyone who dared to stop them. A brutal battle erupted inside the Marquis Chengyang's Residence, with Ling Buyi and the Liang brothers fighting fiercely against Ling Yi's well-trained guards. Despite Ling Yi's initial feigned concern, he had orchestrated the ambush. Ling Buyi, wounded but unyielding, cornered Ling Yi.

Ling Yi tried to intimidate him, warning that patricide would condemn him and cost him his own life. Ling Buyi scoffed at being called Ling Yi's son, then revealed the horrifying truth: Ling Yi had murdered his own son, A'Li, by opening the gates of Gu City to the enemy and hoisting him onto its walls. Ling Yi denied it, questioning how Ling Buyi knew and demanding to know his true identity.

Ling Buyi then added that he knew Ling Yi had also murdered his true father. He declared that since the day he and his aunt returned to the capital, he had resolved to kill Ling Yi, and that day was today. As Ling Yi desperately tried to dissuade him, Ling Buyi recalled the names of Lord Yong, Marquis Yue, and Peng Kun, affirming his unwavering commitment to avenge the Huo family, stating he would die with no regrets.

With a final, chilling declaration, Ling Buyi plunged his blade, proclaiming, "Remember this. My last name is not Ling. My last name is Huo. My name is Huo Wushang." Just as Ling Buyi delivered the fatal blow, Cheng Shaoshang pushed open the banquet hall doors. The sight before her was gruesome: bloody bodies lay strewn across the floor. Ling Buyi stood amidst the carnage, slowly turning to face her as he sensed her presence.

Episode 49 Recap

Cheng Shaoshang found Ling Buyi standing amidst the bloodied corpses at Marquis Chengyang's mansion. Though she had already suspected his true identity, she confronted him, asking, "Who on earth are you? Ling Buyi or Huo Wushang?" Ling Buyi affirmed his unwavering affection for her, stating, "Regardless of who I am, my heart for you will never change." Cheng Shaoshang pressed him, questioning why he chose this day and why he still refused to confide in her.

Ling Buyi explained his actions were to avenge his clan's massacre, emphasizing that waiting until after their wedding would implicate the entire Cheng family. He took full responsibility, declaring, "The buck stops here with me. I won't let the Cheng's Family be implicated because of me." Outside, General Zuo's voice boomed, accusing Ling Buyi of unauthorized use of the imperial bodyguards' tiger seal, military disruption, and treason, declaring these unpardonable crimes punishable by death should he take another step.

Ling Buyi looked at Cheng Shaoshang, stating he had no escape and would pay for his actions with his life. He then uttered a heartbreaking farewell, proclaiming their eternal separation, while the Liang brothers urged him to stay alive. As Ling Buyi stepped out, General Zuo and his imperial bodyguards commanded him to surrender for unauthorized military deployment, threatening death if he resisted. An arrow was shot towards Ling Buyi, but the Liang brothers swiftly intervened, knocking General Zuo aside.

Cheng Shaoshang, riding a horse, galloped in and pulled Ling Buyi onto her horse, making a daring escape. Cheng Shi proudly commended his daughter's bravery and urged her to run. The chase continued relentlessly until Cheng Shaoshang and Ling Buyi were cornered at the edge of a cliff, with soldiers hot on their heels. General Zuo warned Cheng Shaoshang to surrender.

Ling Buyi, with a somber expression, told her not to be foolish, asserting that this path was his alone and she shouldn't be his companion. Cheng Shaoshang challenged him, reminding him of their unbreakable vow made before his mother's memorial tablet and her promise to live and die with him. She expressed her frustration, recounting how her family came to save him and asking why he couldn't let go of his hatred for her sake.

Ling Buyi revealed the depth of his suffering, the blood feud he personally witnessed, the haunting cries of Gu City's souls, and the gruesome images of his family's massacre that plagued his sleep. He declared the burden too heavy to release and apologized for failing her, insisting that only his death would protect her and her family from implication. Cheng Shaoshang vowed eternal unforgiveness if he abandoned her.

Ling Buyi responded that he never expected her forgiveness and declared their fate was over. As General Zuo ordered the soldiers to kill both Ling Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang without mercy, Ling Buyi pushed Cheng Shaoshang away, whispering, "Shaoshang, live on well. I'm sorry." He then plunged into the chasm. Before losing consciousness, Cheng Shaoshang saw a vine clinging to the cliff face as she screamed his name in despair.

Back at the Cheng's Residence, Cheng Shaoshang lay unconscious, wracked with grief. Her servants struggled to administer medicine, and Xiao Yuanyi cursed Ling Buyi for causing her daughter such suffering, wishing she could beat him for jumping off the cliff. Suddenly, the Third Prince burst into the residence with his men, forcing his way past the imperial bodyguards by threatening to kill anyone who resisted. He demanded to take Cheng Shaoshang to the palace.

Xiao Yuanyi fiercely confronted him at the entrance to Cheng Shaoshang's private chamber, insisting on proper respect for a lady's quarters. The Third Prince retorted that the Cheng family had gone too far by refusing to help Ling Buyi, who had always treated Cheng Shaoshang well. Xiao Yuanyi angrily countered that Ling Buyi was the one who betrayed them first, abandoning Cheng Shaoshang after her family risked imprisonment to save him.

She vowed that no one would touch her daughter as long as she lived. In her delirium, Cheng Shaoshang murmured Ling Buyi's name, reliving their painful farewell and her questions about his true identity. The Third Prince argued that Ling Buyi was in critical condition, while Cheng Shaoshang was merely ill, urging her to go save him. Upon hearing that Ling Buyi might still be alive, Cheng Shaoshang fully awoke.

Realizing her desperation had led her to almost give up, she announced her decision to go to the palace, declaring that if Ling Buyi truly died, she would willingly die with him. Despite her parents' protests about her health and the worthlessness of the cause, Cheng Shaoshang reassured them, noting the presence of imperial physicians in the palace and the Third Prince's reliance on her to defend Ling Buyi, which would ensure her safety.

En route to the palace, Cheng Shaoshang pressed the Third Prince about his relationship with Ling Buyi. She deduced that he and Ling Buyi were the two voices she heard at Yanhui Tower, not the Crown Prince. The Third Prince confirmed this, revealing he and Ling Buyi had been close since childhood, a bond that began when he rescued a young, withdrawn Ling Buyi from a pond.

He admitted his uncle had tried to persuade Ling Buyi to support him, but Ling Buyi refused. Cheng Shaoshang then revealed how she uncovered Ling Buyi’s secret: during a high fever, after he ate an almond cake and broke out in rashes, she noticed the other half of her lost jade pendant on his neck. She realized that the conversation she overheard at Yanhui Tower involved three people, with Ling Buyi being the silent third.

The Third Prince tried to defend Ling Buyi, saying he kept secrets to protect her. Cheng Shaoshang, however, expressed her profound disappointment, noting that Ling Buyi's actions, including using the Crown Prince's tiger seal, jeopardized the Crown Prince's position and benefited the Third Prince, sarcastically congratulating him on his imminent success. She lamented Ling Buyi’s complex and contradictory nature—upright yet dark, brave yet sensitive—who could save her unconditionally and abandon her just as easily.

The Third Prince criticized her for being too calm, questioning if she understood devotion and the chaos of love. Cheng Shaoshang sharply retorted, asserting her individuality and capabilities. She explained that she could brew exceptional wine, build efficient water wheels, and make durable, cost-effective tiles, proving she was a capable woman regardless of Ling Buyi.

She condemned the societal expectation for women to die alongside their fiancés or to remain oblivious to their spouses' true identities, especially when she was kept in the dark about Ling Buyi's secrets until just two days before their wedding. She expressed her indignation at being expected to remain compliant and forgiving despite being deceived. Cheng Shaoshang declared that while Ling Buyi was the person she loved most, her life was her own.

She vowed to repay his life-saving kindness with her own, promising to die if she failed to save him, but stressed that any future desire to end her life would be her own choice, not an act of dying with someone else. In the imperial court, the debate over Ling Buyi's fate raged. Eighteen high-ranking officials had jointly submitted a petition for his impeachment, demanding his execution for patricide, military disruption, and deceiving the Eastern Palace.

While Marquis Cui You pleaded with Wen Di for mercy, acknowledging Ling Buyi's heinous actions but citing the tragedy of the Huo clan massacre as a mitigating factor, Official Zuo vehemently argued against any leniency. He asserted that no grievance justified killing one's father, calling the act unforgivable. Yuan Shen challenged Official Zuo's premature judgment, questioning if he had already concluded Ling Buyi's motive.

Official Zuo, in turn, accused Yuan Shen of partiality and demanded the Minister of Justice to intervene. The Minister of Justice affirmed that the Ministry would thoroughly investigate all charges, promising that if proven true, Ling Buyi would face the full force of the law. The Third Prince, exasperated, interjected, reminding everyone of Ling Buyi's upbringing under Wen Di's care and his promising future, asking if he would senselessly ruin it all to be condemned by them.

Official Zuo maintained that Ling Buyi's patricide was an undeniable fact that could not be excused. When Cheng Shaoshang and the Third Prince were summoned into the imperial hall, Cheng Shaoshang remained remarkably calm. Sensing Wen Di's deep affection for Ling Buyi, she immediately declared that Ling Buyi had not committed patricide because Ling Yi was not his biological father. This shocking statement caused an uproar.

Official Zuo scoffed, accusing Cheng Shaoshang of fabricating lies to protect her fiancé and even suggesting she be arrested since she was with Ling Buyi during the incident. Wen Di, however, was visibly agitated and demanded Cheng Shaoshang to repeat her claim. Cheng Shaoshang bravely stated that Ling Buyi was, in fact, Huo Wushang, the orphaned son of General Huo Chong.

Official Zuo challenged her, questioning how Ling Yi or Huo Junhua could be unaware of this and dismissed it as a desperate attempt to exonerate Ling Buyi. Cheng Shaoshang then pointed out that Ling Buyi did not resemble Marquis Chengyang but strongly resembled General Huo. Wen Di, stirred by this, confirmed the observation and urged her to continue. Cheng Shaoshang recounted how Huo Wushang, unlike Ling Yi's son, was severely allergic to almonds.

She explained that after eating almond cake prepared by Huo Junhua, Ling Buyi suffered a high fever and rashes, which made her suspect the truth. Later, at Marquis Chengyang's birthday banquet, Ling Buyi personally confided that he was Huo Wushang, the son of the late General Huo. She passionately argued that Ling Yi was the true culprit behind the fall of Gu City and General Huo's tragic death, making Ling Buyi's actions a righteous act of filial revenge.

Wen Di's memory was triggered, and he recalled Huo Junhua's dying plea for revenge, almost as if he had always known the truth. Unconvinced, Official Zuo demanded concrete evidence. Cheng Shaoshang, with composure, urged them to rescue Ling Buyi from the cliff immediately, promising that the truth would emerge upon his interrogation. Official Zuo argued that even if rescued, Ling Buyi's testimony might not be reliable, and without Marquis Chengyang alive, it would be difficult to confirm anything.

Cheng Shaoshang then accused Official Zuo of pursuing personal vendettas rather than justice, reminding him of his past altercation with Ling Buyi. The Third Prince intervened, chastising Official Zuo for disrespecting Wen Di with his incessant babbling. Wen Di then firmly silenced everyone, stating he had his own method of proof.

He revealed that he had seen A Zheng, the real Ling Buyi, as a child and knew of a unique birthmark: a small, three-eared tiger head located half an inch below his lower back. Cheng Shaoshang confirmed she had seen this birthmark while tending to Ling Buyi during his fever. Overwhelmed, Wen Di immediately ordered a rescue mission to bring Ling Buyi back from the cliff with imperial physicians and provisions, vowing to confront him for his recklessness.

When Official Zuo attempted to resume his accusations regarding the tiger seal and military deployment, Wen Di cut him off, implying that he would not tolerate anyone else paying for Huo Wushang's actions. With the truth revealed and Wen Di's command, the imperial court concluded. As the officials exited, the Third Prince expressed his sincere gratitude to Cheng Shaoshang for her courageous intervention. Cheng Shaoshang, however, cautioned him to be vigilant during Ling Buyi's rescue.

She reminded him that General Zuo had relentlessly pursued Ling Buyi without any intent of negotiation, even ordering arrows to be fired at him on the cliff, which ultimately forced Ling Buyi to jump. Her words implied that those who wished Ling Buyi harm might attempt to finish the job during the rescue.

The Third Prince acknowledged her warning, vowing to deal with any disloyal parties and promising that Ling Buyi would express his profound apologies upon his return, noting his deep love for her. Meanwhile, Ling Buyi had miraculously survived his plunge from the cliff. The bracelet Cheng Shaoshang had given him had snagged on a vine, breaking his fall. Clinging to the cliff face in the bitter cold, his consciousness slowly faded.

Episode 50 Recap

The Third Prince and his men rushed to the cliff to rescue Ling Buyi. General Zuo, still harboring ill intentions, attempted to cut the ropes, intending to make Ling Buyi's death look like an accident. The Third Prince discovered his treachery and angrily confronted him, stating that Emperor Wen had ordered Ling Buyi's rescue and questioning General Zuo's audacity.

The Third Prince then ordered General Zuo to be arrested and taken to the Ministry of Justice jail, to be severely interrogated, "dead or alive." Soon after, the guards announced that General Ling had been saved. Inside Changqiu Palace, numerous physicians attended to Ling Buyi, who remained unconscious but tightly clutched the Shaoshang string around his wrist, so much so that it had sunken into his flesh.

The physicians explained to Emperor Wen, who was present, that they couldn't treat Ling Buyi's wounds or administer medicine as he refused to release his grip. When Emperor Wen asked about Cheng Shaoshang, he was told she was outside the palace, claiming "it's over between her and General Ling" and she didn't want to see him. Angered, Emperor Wen declared he wouldn't allow their connection to end and ordered her to be brought in, by force if necessary.

Concerned about Ling Buyi's critical condition, the Third Prince was about to go fetch Cheng Shaoshang himself. However, Cheng Shaoshang, standing just outside the hall, began playing a melancholic tune on her flute. As she played, she recalled fond memories and promises she and Ling Buyi had made. As if sensing her presence through the music, Ling Buyi slowly released his grip on the Shaoshang string. Relieved, the medical staff could finally begin his treatment.

The next morning, news arrived that Ling Buyi's fever had subsided and he was out of danger. However, Cheng Shaoshang, exhausted from the ordeal, fell ill herself. When she awoke later that afternoon, Empress Xuan was by her side. Cheng Shaoshang expressed that her relationship with Ling Buyi was definitively over. Empress Xuan, though saddened, respected her decision.

Cheng Shaoshang, feeling immense gratitude for Empress Xuan's constant care and understanding, broke down in tears, stating she could never repay such kindness. Empress Xuan, in turn, expressed a wish for Cheng Shaoshang to live a good and fulfilling life, unlike her own. Cheng Shaoshang explained her decision, saying that while she didn't blame Ling Buyi for prioritizing the Gu City case over their relationship, as she would have done the same, she couldn't forgive his constant deceit.

She stated, "I have no idea when is he sincere or when is he tricking me," recalling her fear that he had used her to secure the tiger seal, inadvertently harming the Crown Prince and involving the Empress. She tearfully conveyed her pain of feeling abandoned once again, first by her parents and now by him, despite wishing to face any hardship alongside him. " If he wants to kill the enemies, he can let me know.

I'm willing to go with him. . . But I could never forgive him for abandoning me. He said that it's for my sake." Before completely severing ties, Cheng Shaoshang resolved to uncover the full truth behind the events of Gu City, seeking a clear understanding to achieve closure. Empress Xuan promised her full support in this endeavor. Soon after, Cheng Shaoshang, accompanied by Yuan Shen, visited Madam Chunyu in the Ministry of Justice jail.

Yuan Shen explained that Madam Chunyu had been acting crazed, attacking people, ever since witnessing the massacre at Marquis Chengyang's Residence, making her seemingly unable to answer questions. Cheng Shaoshang, however, suspected her madness was a pretense to ensure her survival, noting that Ling Yi and Madam Chunyu were never a loving couple. She deduced that Ling Yi had been forced to marry Madam Chunyu because she possessed incriminating information against him.

Inside the cell, Cheng Shaoshang informed Madam Chunyu that Ling Yi was dead, beheaded, and buried in an unmarked grave, then asked if she wished to live. Madam Chunyu responded with a desire to live. Cheng Shaoshang then revealed the true cause of Madam Chunyu's past miscarriage: Ling Yi had deliberately administered a slow-acting drug in her food for years, rendering her infertile.

This act ensured Madam Chunyu would be without an heir and easily manipulated, unable to use her knowledge of Ling Yi's collusion with Peng Kun as leverage. Hearing this, Madam Chunyu, though still in a dazed state, began to repeatedly mention "Nuwa at Sancai Temple" and spoke of a statue she had personally molded.

She alluded to having entrusted this statue, which presumably contained evidence, to Lady Ruyang at Sancai Temple, requesting her to make offerings for Marquis Chengyang's upcoming 50th birthday and to pray for a son, so she wouldn't be lonely. Cheng Shaoshang commented that Madam Chunyu's suffering was a form of karma for what Madam Huo endured.

Based on this cryptic revelation, Cheng Shaoshang and Yuan Shen decided to go to Sancai Temple, believing the evidence was hidden there, likely within a recent gift sent to Lady Ruyang. In the main hall, filled with the scent of medicine stewing on a stove (Emperor Wen's unconventional choice), Emperor Wen sat surrounded by officials and physicians. A visibly gaunt and pale Ling Buyi, still recovering, began to speak, revealing a truth that stunned everyone.

He clarified, "My surname is Huo, not Ling." He recounted a memory from his childhood: it was apricot season, and as a lively child, he climbed a tree to pick apricots for his weaker cousin, Li (the real Ling Buyi), who loved them. When he tore his clothes, he feared his mother's scolding. To avoid punishment, he suggested that he and Li swap clothes, with him taking the blame as his aunt, Huo Junhua, wouldn't be too harsh on him.

Li, however, warned that his aunt was hot-tempered. Wearing Li's clothes, he went to deliver apricots to his father's military tent. There, he secretly witnessed a horrifying scene: his father, General Huo, arguing with Ling Yi. Ling Yi tried to persuade General Huo to abandon Gu City and surrender to Emperor Li, arguing that Emperor Wen’s forces were failing and no reinforcements would come.

General Huo steadfastly refused to betray Emperor Wen, declaring he would kill Ling Yi if he spoke of defection again. Enraged, Ling Yi murdered General Huo. Soon after, Peng Kun entered, expressing irritation that Ling Yi had killed General Huo instead of persuading him to surrender. Peng Kun revealed Emperor Li was sending 200,000 reinforcements and that all of the Huo family must be eliminated to prevent future revenge.

He advised Ling Yi to be ruthless, stating that the massacring soldiers would take care of the family. Ling Yi then reluctantly agreed, and they set fire to the study. Huo Wushang was rendered unconscious by the smoke, a twist of fate that ultimately saved him from the ensuing massacre. When he awoke, it was late, raining, and countless corpses lay strewn across the city.

He found his aunt, Huo Junhua, and together they hid among the dead for two days, fearing remaining rebel soldiers. He realized with horror that the young Ling Buyi had worn his clothes and died in his place, his head displayed on the city walls. After their escape, Huo Junhua became mentally unstable, frequently calling out the real Ling Buyi's name, Li (Zisheng).

They endured two arduous years, living as beggars and nearly perishing multiple times, before finally reaching the capital and meeting Emperor Wen. When Emperor Wen asked for his true name, Ling Buyi (Huo Wushang) explained that his aunt had continued to call him Li (Zisheng) to protect him from Ling Yi, as they were too vulnerable to confront the traitor. He then finally declared his true name: "Huo Wushang."

Ling Buyi further explained that as a mere child, his testimony would have been dismissed as a lie instigated by his deranged aunt, fueled by her resentment over Ling Yi's remarriage. Therefore, his only path to vengeance was to assume the identity of Ling Buyi, "recognize a thief as his father," and conceal his true self. He had hoped to seek justice through legal means, to avenge his father, the Huo family, and the people of Gu City.

However, as he meticulously investigated in secret, Ling Yi systematically eliminated all those connected to the case, including Peng Kun. His aunt, Huo Junhua, unable to bear the weight of injustice, eventually fell ill and died, leaving no living witnesses. Devastated and with no legal recourse left to bring Ling Yi to justice, Ling Buyi felt he had no choice but to take matters into his own hands, resorting to "violence with violence."

Emperor Wen, deeply moved and tears in his eyes, rose and approached Ling Buyi, asking him to confirm his true name. Ling Buyi slowly raised his head and finally, with a heavy heart, declared, "Huo Wushang."

Episode 51 Recap

Emperor Wen tearfully approached Huo Wushang, asking him to confirm his true name. With great difficulty, Huo Wushang finally revealed his name to be Huo Wushang, stating he regretted his actions but wishing for his loved one to be spared from his sin and for himself to reunite with his parents in death. Emperor Wen expressed his remorse for being late to learn the truth.

However, Official Zuo, the Palace Aide to the Censor-in-chief, persisted in demanding Huo Wushang's execution to uphold the law, despite knowing the Huo family's loyalty and Huo Wushang's tragic past. This infuriated Emperor Wen, who violently struck Official Zuo. Consort Yue intervened, reminding the Emperor to maintain decorum in the Chongde Hall. When Official Zuo then criticized her for a woman interfering in state affairs, Consort Yue, recalling her own battles alongside the Emperor, retaliated by hitting him.

She argued that avenging one's father was a justifiable act, not an unforgivable crime, citing the "Book of Rites" and warning that punishing Huo Wushang would alienate all filial sons in the realm. Official Zuo continued to accuse Huo Wushang of framing Ling Yi. Yuan Shen then presented irrefutable evidence: letters found inside a Nuwa statue, sculpted by Ling Yi's wife, Madam Chunyu, and gifted to Lady Ruyang.

These letters detailed a long-standing conspiracy between Ling Yi and Peng Kun to collaborate with Emperor Li, intentionally delaying relief efforts and leading to the massacre of Gu City. With this damning evidence, calls for Official Zuo's punishment echoed throughout the court. At this moment, the Third Prince arrived, reporting that General Zuo had confessed under torture.

The Zuo family had been bribed with vast sums by remnants of Emperor Li to ensure Huo Wushang's demise, believing that eliminating the formidable general would pave the way for their rebellion and an attempt to reclaim the dynasty. The Third Prince revealed that the money came from Tian's Restaurant, whose owner, Tian Shuo, was identified as Emperor Li's loyal former chamberlain.

Tian Shuo had been secretly building a network of influence, including Lord Yong and Marquis Yue, under the guise of a merchant. Though Tian Shuo managed to escape before his capture, incriminating evidence of his decade-long plotting was discovered. Emperor Wen ordered Official Zuo to be subjected to severe interrogation, with no regard for his life. Later that night, Emperor Wen questioned Huo Wushang and the Third Prince about the unauthorized use of the Crown Prince's tiger seal.

The Third Prince openly admitted to his prior dealings with Huo Wushang, asserting that the Crown Prince was unfit to rule. He argued that a monarch's character, whether benevolent or harsh, was secondary to acting rationally, and that the Crown Prince's indecisiveness had directly led to corrupt situations like Lou Ben's conspiracy. Emperor Wen rebuked his son for his harsh judgment.

When asked for his opinion, Huo Wushang candidly explained that in just a few months under the Crown Prince, he had gained control over all Eastern Palace affairs, including military, tax, and intelligence. He held all command tokens and seals, making it effortless for him to seize absolute power if the Crown Prince were to ascend the throne.

While he personally never sought to usurp the throne, he advised Emperor Wen to depose the Crown Prince for the stability of the nation, even if it meant being branded as disloyal. As Huo Wushang spoke, Empress Xuan emerged, directly confronting him. She asked if his solitary journey to Marquis Chengyang's Residence earlier signified his decision to abandon Cheng Shaoshang.

After a long pause, Huo Wushang confirmed that he had indeed resolved to relinquish Cheng Shaoshang, stating he had no regrets. Overhearing this, Cheng Shaoshang stepped forward. She acknowledged Huo Wushang's complex motivations, understanding his desire to protect her family from his revenge mission and his inability to forgo avenging his family. Yet, she declared that he had never truly understood her.

She then requested Emperor Wen and Empress Xuan to annul their engagement, humbly stating her low birth, limited intellect, and rebellious nature made her an unsuitable match. She reminded Huo Wushang of her oath: if he ever abandoned her, she would never forgive him. Now, with his ruthlessness, she would keep her word and asked him to release her. Later that night, Empress Xuan approached Emperor Wen.

She expressed her weariness from decades under the weight of the Empress and Crown Prince titles, likening them to swords hanging over her head. She confessed that she had been pushed through life, regretting her marriage to the Emperor and her ascension to empress, despite knowing the path was fraught with peril.

She spoke of the Crown Prince's true nature, more akin to her own scholarly father, destined for a peaceful life of intellectual pursuits rather than the anxieties of the throne. To shield her son from ignominy, she proposed her own dethronement, suggesting that if Consort Yue were elevated to Empress, the Third Prince could ascend to the Crown Prince position legitimately.

She falsely claimed to harbor deep-seated jealousy and resentment towards Emperor Wen's affection for Consort Yue, stating that remaining Empress was a daily torment. She pleaded to be freed from her role, to live as Xuan Shen'an, and to be confined to Changqiu Palace. In the aftermath, Cheng Shaoshang returned home, visibly exhausted, and confined herself to her room for several days. During this time, Ling Yi's three brothers were executed, and his family suffered dire consequences.

Empress Xuan confined herself to Changqiu Palace, the Crown Prince was demoted to Prince of Eastern Sea, and Huo Wushang, seeking to atone and live on behalf of Ling Buyi, requested a demotion and a seven-year deployment to the Northwest, officially changing his name to Huo Buyi. On the day Huo Buyi was set to depart the capital for the Northwest, he sent Liangqiu Qi to convey a message to Cheng Shaoshang, hoping for a final meeting.

Cheng Shaoshang, however, declined, sending her father and brother to see him off instead, with a final, heartbreaking message: "Never ever see again." Huo Buyi waited at the city gate for three long hours. Eventually, Cheng Shaogong arrived, returning the private seal of the mansion Huo Buyi had once gifted to Cheng Shaoshang, a symbolic severance of all their ties and hopes.

Upon hearing of Empress Xuan's confinement, Cheng Shaoshang reflected on the ancient dilemma that loyalty and filial piety often conflict. She informed Xiao Yuanyi of her decision to go to Changqiu Palace, declaring her intention to stand by the Empress and fulfill the virtues of loyalty and righteousness. Xiao Yuanyi, seeing her daughter's resolute departure, had a sudden, painful realization that this might be a permanent separation.

She rushed after Cheng Shaoshang, calling out her name, but it was too late. The palace gates slowly closed, leaving Cheng Shaoshang on the other side, silent and distant, a poignant echo of Xiao Yuanyi's own departure for the front lines over a decade ago, now facing the sorrow of losing her daughter once more.

Episode 52 Recap

Five years had passed since the palace gates closed on Cheng Shaoshang, marking the beginning of her secluded life in Changqiu Palace. During this time, life continued for her family members: Cheng Cheng and Qingcong, deeply in love, married; Wan Qiqi wed Cheng Song and gave birth to their first son; Young Marquis Ban happily married Cheng Yang; and even Shaogong found someone he fancied.

Meanwhile, Huo Buyi spent these years relentlessly fighting battles, his old wounds never fully healing before new ones appeared. Huo Buyi's relentless campaigns were a closely guarded secret from Cheng Shaoshang. Five years prior, when Cheng Shi was ambushed by remnants of Emperor Li, Yuan Shen's father was initially tasked with the rescue but never appeared. Huo Buyi, alone, risked his life against a force of suicidal soldiers, barely escaping with his life due to overwhelming odds.

Later, when Cheng Song fell into an ambush while suppressing bandits in Shu, Huo Buyi secretly provided assistance. These actions were unknown to Cheng Shaoshang, who remained in the dark about the dangers Huo Buyi faced on her family’s behalf. Conversely, Luo Jitong, learning of Huo Buyi’s presence in the Northwest, harbored malicious intentions.

She went so far as to murder her husband, Jia Qilang, in order to gain her freedom and get closer to Huo Buyi, convinced that one day he would accept her. However, Huo Buyi had no regard for Luo Jitong during his time in the Northwest. He even ordered his men to expel her from the barracks and saw her only a handful of times over five years.

When Empress Xuan's health deteriorated, leading to Huo Buyi's recall to the capital, Luo Jitong brazenly followed the army, deliberately spreading rumors of their deep affection. Empress Xuan, aware that her time was limited, wished for Cheng Shaoshang to find a good husband. She also expressed a desire to move out of Changqiu Palace, the principal residence of the empress, implying that Consort Yue should occupy it.

Cheng Shaoshang, deeply devoted to Empress Xuan, suggested she could stay in Changqiu Palace forever to care for her, asking, "Isn't that good?" Empress Xuan, however, gently insisted that she wished for Cheng Shaoshang to "meet someone nice" and "have a more complete life," saying it would bring her "relief" to see her marry and have children while she was still alive. Physician Sun's prognosis indicated Empress Xuan might only live for a few more months, possibly until spring.

Cheng Shaoshang conveyed Empress Xuan's wishes to Consort Yue. Consort Yue, known for her disregard for empty titles and formalities, stated that she found moving residences troublesome and was content in Yongle Palace, where she had grown accustomed to living. She firmly asserted that Empress Xuan would always retain her title, and that any further discussion of changing it or moving would be "trying to offend me." Cheng Shaoshang respectfully bowed and thanked Consort Yue on behalf of Empress Xuan.

As Cheng Shaoshang left, she encountered Yuan Shen waiting by the railing, as he had for the past five years. She understood his feelings for her. Yuan Shen, also aware of Empress Xuan's wishes, offered to marry Cheng Shaoshang. He noted that they could "make an act" of marriage to relieve Empress Xuan, citing their compatible backgrounds.

He argued that their similar "slightly mean" natures would make them reliable "ward mates" and "allies" who would never betray each other, and that he valued himself more than "a certain person" (implying Huo Buyi) who often put himself at risk. He boldly declared, "I'm more suitable for you than him."

When Cheng Shaoshang asked if he would still marry her even if she still harbored feelings for Huo Buyi, Yuan Shen readily agreed, promising to wait patiently for her to forget him. Empress Xuan had previously advised Cheng Shaoshang that the past was gone, and that she should cherish the present and future, breaking free from emotional entanglements to ensure a smooth life.

After much deliberation, Cheng Shaoshang decided to leave the palace to consent to an engagement with Yuan Shen. Third Prince personally rode out to welcome Huo Buyi back to the capital. Emperor Wen, who had been anxiously awaiting his return, was visibly relieved upon seeing him. Liangqiu Qi reported the details of Huo Buyi's injuries and secret assistance to Cheng Shi and Cheng Song, causing Emperor Wen distress.

Emperor Wen noted that Huo Buyi had kept his heroic deeds secret, allowing others to claim credit. Third Prince then mentioned the widespread rumors of an affair between Luo Jitong and Huo Buyi, but Huo Buyi vehemently denied any connection, stating, "There's nothing between Lady Luo and me. There's no way we are getting married." He immediately instructed his servant, Fei, to send two carts of dowries to Lady Luo's family and "help her find a husband."

Emperor Wen, concerned for Huo Buyi's future, asked about his marriage plans. Huo Buyi declared that after he rebuilt the Huo family's graveyard and ancestral hall, he would inform his ancestors that he would never marry or have children, saying, "I ask for nothing else in my life." Emperor Wen then ordered Huo Buyi to assist Third Prince in implementing the Land Distribution Order, emphasizing its critical importance for the empire's future.

He also informed Huo Buyi that Cheng Shaoshang was meeting Yuan Shen's parents that day and that an engagement was imminent, signaling that "both of you will be going your separate ways." Later, as Huo Buyi left the palace, he saw Cheng Shaoshang and Yuan Shen returning together. The sight brought no joy to Cheng Shaoshang, only a resurgence of past sorrows. As she mounted her horse, Huo Buyi instinctively reached out to adjust her stirrup.

Cheng Shaoshang noticed he still wore the "Shaoshang string" on his wrist. She then said, "I am no longer the Cheng Shaoshang from the past. I can ride a horse now even without a stirrup," before riding off. Yuan Shen then approached Huo Buyi, telling him, "Thank you for taking care of my fiancée, General Huo. However, it should end here."

Yuan Shen knew Huo Buyi wouldn't let go, but believed that despite any lingering feelings, Cheng Shaoshang, knowing her own temperament, "still might not choose you." Meanwhile, Luo Jitong visited Empress Xuan in Changqiu Palace, deliberately trying to impress Cheng Shaoshang. She spoke of her constant presence in Huo Buyi’s military tent, serving him food and wine, claiming a deep bond had formed, and implying an impending marriage.

Cheng Shaoshang, displeased by Luo Jitong's disrespect towards Empress Xuan, reminded her of the Luo family's past debt of gratitude to the Empress. At that moment, a messenger arrived with news that Huo Buyi had sent two carts of dowries and a large bronze mirror to the Luo family, with instructions for her elders to "find a good husband for Lady Luo." Cheng Shaoshang immediately understood that Huo Buyi’s actions were a clear rejection of Luo Jitong, not a proposal.

The Luo family, realizing they could not leverage Huo Buyi, promptly expelled Luo Jitong from their home. Cornered and desperate, Luo Jitong confronted Huo Buyi. She pleaded for him to retract his order and take her as his concubine, emphasizing her reputation in the capital. Huo Buyi calmly told her, "I thought you were smart. A smart person should know when to stop."

He dismissed her claims of "accompaniment," recounting how he had expelled her from the camp, and that they had never even spoken during his return to the capital. He stressed that his only true companionship was with "another woman." When Luo Jitong insisted she believed her efforts would eventually move him, Huo Buyi accused her of "lying to yourself." He then directly asked her, "What did Jia Qilang do wrong then? You killed him, right?"

He revealed that he knew Jia Qilang’s illness, though chronic, was not fatal at age twenty, implying her culpability. Cornered, Luo Jitong desperately asked if his rejection was "because you can't forget about her." Huo Buyi retorted, "That's none of your business." He confirmed that he had no feelings for her whatsoever, adding that this would be true even if Cheng Shaoshang were out of the picture.

Episode 53 Recap

Luo Jitong visited Cheng Shaoshang at Changqiu Palace and offered an apology for her previous rude words and false claims about General Huo's affection. She explained that after her husband's death, her family had pressured her to remarry, which made her anxious and led her to cling to General Huo. She confessed her long-standing admiration for him but acknowledged he did not return her feelings, admitting she had overestimated herself while underestimating his love for Cheng Shaoshang.

She recounted the public humiliation of General Huo sending a mirror as a "wedding gift" for her father, which clearly demonstrated his rejection. Cheng Shaoshang, in turn, told Luo Jitong that she would not intercede with General Huo on her behalf. Luo Jitong then announced her decision to return to the Northwest to live out her remaining years, finally letting go of her obsession.

She wished Cheng Shaoshang and General Huo a lifetime of happiness together, expressing that she would be upset otherwise, and mentioned that she had one last thing to do for Empress Xuan. A palace maid informed Ling Buyi that Empress Xuan was gravely ill, constantly missing him, and was now unable to get out of bed due to severe depression and an irreversible heart condition. Ling Buyi visited her, feeling deep regret.

Empress Xuan, recognizing him, noted his weight loss and asked if he missed the capital or Cheng Shaoshang. She then revealed that Yuan Shen and Cheng Shaoshang were not engaged and that Cheng Shaoshang still harbored feelings for him. Ling Buyi acknowledged his past mistakes and vowed to spend his life atoning.

Empress Xuan advised him to cherish Cheng Shaoshang, making up for the lack of love she experienced in her youth, and to always communicate openly with her, rather than forcing her to simply understand his decisions. Ling Buyi promised complete honesty with Cheng Shaoshang moving forward.

Empress Xuan expressed her sorrow that she might not live to see their marriage, hoping that in a future life, they could be her biological children, allowing her to live a longer, more joyful life cared for by them. Luo Jitong, under the pretext of taking Cheng Shaoshang to a renowned physician specializing in depression for Empress Xuan, lured her out of Changqiu Palace. During the silent journey, Cheng Shaoshang grew uneasy.

She questioned the long travel time and asked the carriage to stop, intending to return to the palace and formally arrange a visit to the physician with imperial approval and lavish gifts. Luo Jitong feigned sincerity, claiming she was merely doing one last good deed before leaving for the Northwest and wouldn't harm Cheng Shaoshang. She showed her meager belongings as proof of her imminent departure but refused to allow the carriage to stop, leaving Cheng Shaoshang trapped.

A palace guard informed Ling Buyi that General Liangqiu had reported Cheng Shaoshang's departure with Luo Jitong for the city outskirts an hour earlier. Knowing Luo Jitong's manipulative nature, Ling Buyi immediately gave chase. Meanwhile, as the carriage ventured into a secluded area, Cheng Shaoshang advised Luo Jitong to move on from General Huo and find a suitable partner. Luo Jitong angrily refused, declaring she would only marry General Huo.

She recounted her lifelong, unrequited love for him, her joy at their reunion in the Northwest after years of separate engagements, and the agony of being married to another man, even confessing to using her late husband, Qilang, as a substitute for General Huo. Cheng Shaoshang, disgusted, called her heartless. Luo Jitong then cruelly reminded Cheng Shaoshang of General Huo's reckless, death-seeking behavior in the Northwest and accused Cheng Shaoshang of being cruel to him.

Cheng Shaoshang asserted her deep love and respect for Ling Buyi, embracing both his good and bad qualities, and distinguished herself from Luo Jitong, whom she accused of breaking engagements at will. Luo Jitong, filled with venomous jealousy, questioned why General Huo only had eyes for Cheng Shaoshang. She finally erupted, calling Cheng Shaoshang "deserving of death." Cheng Shaoshang defiantly stated that even her death wouldn't win Luo Jitong Ling Buyi's affection.

Luo Jitong then chillingly confessed to murdering her own husband, Qilang, yet still failing to win Ling Buyi's love. She declared that by killing Cheng Shaoshang, General Huo would at least remember her forever, even if it was out of pure hatred. As the carriage hurtled towards a cliff, Ling Buyi arrived, commanding Luo Jitong to stop. Luo Jitong, holding Cheng Shaoshang hostage with a blade, threatened to kill her if Ling Buyi stopped the carriage.

He tried to negotiate, promising to agree to anything if Cheng Shaoshang was released. Luo Jitong, however, mocked his sudden fear, knowing he had no intention of marrying anyone but Cheng Shaoshang. Declaring she had no reason to live, she vowed to take Cheng Shaoshang with her. Ling Buyi bravely leaped onto the runaway carriage, protecting Cheng Shaoshang by grabbing the sharp blade with his bare hands, which bled profusely.

At the very edge of the cliff, he pulled Cheng Shaoshang from the carriage and jumped to safety, while Luo Jitong and the carriage plummeted into the chasm. Though safe from the fall, they were still clinging precariously to the cliff face. Cheng Shaoshang urged Ling Buyi to let go so he could save himself, but he refused, declaring he would only release her if he died.

He passionately confessed that he could not live without her, acknowledging his past wrongs and his unworthiness of her forgiveness. He revealed that ever since their "arm-biting alliance" five years ago, he has considered her his wife, and so, "You live, I live; you die, I die." Moved by his confession, Cheng Shaoshang's words were interrupted when the Liangqiu brothers arrived, throwing down ropes to rescue them.

Ling Buyi, despite his bleeding hand which he dismissed, offered to send Cheng Shaoshang back to the palace. She initially declined, but he insisted one of his men accompany her in a carriage. Before they could depart, an urgent imperial summons arrived: Empress Xuan was in critical condition, and His Majesty demanded their immediate return. Ling Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang rushed back to Changqiu Palace, where a somber scene awaited with princes and princesses kneeling.

Behind a screen, Empress Xuan lay emaciated and frail. Wen Di, heartbroken, asked her final wishes. She responded that she had lived her entire life for others and desired to speak for herself now. She reflected on Wen Di's true self—a righteous young man who loved scholarship and would have preferred a peaceful life in the countryside with Yueheng and their children.

She told him he owed her nothing, as their marriage was an arrangement, and considered it her fortune to have met him. She then spoke of the sacrifices both Wen Di and Yueheng made for peace, acknowledging that Yueheng's hidden tears were likely more profound than her own. She urged Wen Di to cherish Yueheng and act as if she had never existed.

After a private moment with Yueheng, where they affirmed their deep sisterly bond, Empress Xuan asked for her children to be brought in. She requested that while her body was to be buried in the imperial mausoleum, a lock of her hair be taken by Cheng Shaoshang to the mountain where she grew up and burned to ash. Wen Di tearfully agreed.

She advised her son, the Crown Prince, to be broad-minded and cherish his own time rather than being indecisive. She then turned to Ling Buyi, assuring him she never blamed him, understood his suffering, and urged him to let go of the past and forgive himself. Finally, she addressed Cheng Shaoshang, telling her not to view her five years at Changqiu Palace as a burden.

Empress Xuan stressed the preciousness of time and implored Cheng Shaoshang to live for herself, unlike how she felt she had wasted her own life. She expressed a mother's wish for Cheng Shaoshang and Ling Buyi to reunite but, as a wise elder, acknowledged that love cannot be forced. Her ultimate counsel was for them to follow their hearts, cherish the present, and avoid regrets.

With her dying breath, she whispered a prayer for a peaceful next life, free from hardship, with loving parents. She thanked Wen Di for a fortunate life but, in a poignant final twist, expressed a wish that in her next life, they "never meet again." Empress Xuan drew her last breath in Wen Di's embrace, bringing forth a chorus of anguished cries. Overwhelmed by grief, Cheng Shaoshang stumbled out of the inner chamber and wandered disoriented into the pouring rain.

Ling Buyi found her collapsed and unconscious, and immediately carried her to the Cheng family residence. After ensuring Cheng Shaoshang was settled, Ling Buyi went to a side hall to speak with Cheng Shi and Xiao Yuanyi. He informed them of Empress Xuan's passing, then stated his intention to leave quickly.

Cheng Shi, however, stopped him, expressing his anger at Ling Buyi's casual treatment of their home and daughter, just as he had abandoned Cheng Shaoshang five years prior, leaving her so heartbroken and ill that a coffin was half-built for her. Ling Buyi humbly acknowledged his profound wrongs, admitting he could not forgive himself. He revealed his suicidal tendencies in the Northwest, fighting with a death wish, yet he couldn't die, knowing he hadn't yet alleviated Shaoshang's resentment.

Xiao Yuanyi recounted Cheng Shaoshang's transformation from a lively girl to one confined to Changqiu Palace for five years, missing all family events, all because of him, emphasizing that the Cheng family also lost their daughter for those five years. Cheng Shi clarified that they were not seeking an apology, acknowledging their own past shortcomings. They declared that they now fully supported Cheng Shaoshang in choosing her own path. Xiao Yuanyi remarked on the cruelty of fate despite their mutual affection, concluding that whether they could rekindle their relationship would be for the future to decide.

Episode 54 Recap

After recovering from her ordeal, Cheng Shaoshang spent days alternating between sleep and wakefulness before finally regaining some strength. She then returned to Changqiu Palace with Huo Buyi. The palace felt desolate and cold without Empress Xuan. Shaoshang recalled making sweet cakes for the Empress in that very place, which led Emperor Wen to reward Huo Buyi.

At the time, she had felt a pang of unfairness, but Empress Xuan had taught her an important lesson: if a husband is the proud sun, a woman can be a star, and like the sun and stars, they are equally important, coexisting to sustain the world.

Shaoshang then confronted Huo Buyi, confessing her past hatred for him for leaving her, for his reckless independence, for choosing to jump off a cliff alone rather than walk with her, and for repaying her true feelings with lies. She stated that after five long years, she found it impossible to trust him or give her heart again. Huo Buyi apologized, expressing deep regret for hurting her in the most painful way, knowing her fear of abandonment.

He admitted to living the first two decades of his life in hatred, and now the rest would be spent in regret. He wished he could prove his sincerity but felt he no longer had the right. Shaoshang reiterated her resolve to live well and planned to travel the world to witness its vastness after delivering the Empress’s crown back to its homeland. She asked Huo Buyi if he too would live well.

He replied that after completing the Land Distribution Order, he would return to the Northwest to guard the borders and protect the "beautiful galaxy on earth." Shaoshang assured him she would take good care of herself, and he likewise promised to live well. Back at home, Xiao Yuanyi prepared Cheng Shaoshang’s favorite sweet cakes, a stark contrast to her usual strict demeanor.

Shaoshang found her mother’s newfound gentleness quite frightening, prompting Cheng Shi to playfully suggest that Xiao Yuanyi should just scold her daughter as usual. Xiao Yuanyi insisted she would gladly maintain the facade of a gentle mother if it made Shaoshang happy. She apologized to Shaoshang, admitting it was her first time being a mother to a lady, and she had not grasped the difference between raising a daughter, sons, or leading troops.

She regretted leaving Shaoshang behind and vowed that if given another chance, she would take Shaoshang with them even at great personal risk, so they could face all challenges as a family. Cheng Shi agreed, saying he would have fought Grandmother and Madam Ge to keep Shaoshang by their side.

Xiao Yuanyi challenged him to prove it by delivering snacks to Grandmother and informing her of his impending departure to quell a civil disturbance in the State of Yu, knowing Grandmother would object. Cheng Shi jokingly listed his mother, Shaoshang, and Xiao Yuanyi as the three people who gave him the most headaches, with Xiao Yuanyi being the "worst."

Cheng Shaoshang took the snacks to her Grandmother, overhearing her praying for Cheng Zhi’s safety and expressing remorse for her past actions. Grandmother confessed that she had been utterly obsessed, swayed by Madam Ge's lies, and had sought to manipulate Cheng Shi and his wife, which caused Shaoshang to suffer so much. She deeply regretted causing Shaoshang’s long separation from her parents and vowed that if she could relive those years, she would treat Shaoshang much better.

She also revealed that she had arranged to leave all her money and jewelry to Shaoshang after her passing, ensuring Shaoshang would have support even if she chose to remain unmarried. Shaoshang, silent, turned and left with Lianfang. She confided in Lianfang, recalling how Lianfang had been the only person she could trust in her early years and how Lianfang’s care had saved her life when she was gravely ill.

Shaoshang felt as though the past few years had been a dream. She admitted her struggle to reconcile with Grandmother, still resentful for the years of separation and lack of familial affection, even though Grandmother had stepped forward during the Cheng family's crisis.

Acknowledging her own stubbornness, Shaoshang decided to move past dwelling on those who disliked her and instead focus on those who loved and treated her well, believing this focus would give her the courage to live a full and happy life. Meanwhile, Yuan Shen prepared for his own journey. He visited Cheng Shaoshang to bid farewell, informing her of his plan to request a posting from Emperor Wen to oversee the implementation of the Land Distribution Order.

He shared that his parents were now "better than ever," as his father, Official Yuan, had fallen ill from guilt over disgracing the Yuan Family, leading his mother, Madam Yuan, to care for him and desire to return to their hometown together. Yuan Shen saw this as a good outcome for their marriage. He mentioned his parents were still concerned about his and Shaoshang’s past engagement. Shaoshang apologized for not being able to give him what he wanted.

Yuan Shen, unfazed, stated he had expected this outcome and assured her he would become a high-ranking official, ensuring the Yuan Family's prosperity. He acknowledged that Shaoshang would not be his "wife of one of the most important officials" but believed someone more suitable existed. He admitted he always knew this was a losing game for him, but had no regrets. He then poignantly declared that even if he had lost, Huo Buyi hadn’t truly won.

He asked Shaoshang to leave first and not to look back, fearing he might regret letting her go. Later, Yuan Shen met with Huo Buyi. He inquired about Huo Buyi's well-being, acknowledging his rival's sacrifice in saving Official Yuan and declaring that further conflict between them would be shameless. He reiterated his own plans to personally visit the states to oversee the Land Distribution Order.

Huo Buyi shared that he was also involved with the Land Distribution Order, as Emperor Wen had ordered a Prime Minister's Camp built in the State of Yu, and he intended to assist the Crown Prince, fearing remaining traitors. Yuan Shen questioned why Huo Buyi, his love rival, would go to such lengths to help the Yuan family, especially given that Huo Buyi's actions for Cheng Song and Cheng Shi were understandable due to their relationship with Shaoshang.

Huo Buyi explained that, aside from Yuan Shen's own family, he was the person in the capital who cared for him the most. He stated that if Yuan Shen was not well, Shaoshang would not be at ease, just as he himself was not upset by Shaoshang's nomination of Lou Yao, understanding her caring nature. Huo Buyi emphasized that he must ensure the well-being of all those Shaoshang cared about, so she could find her own peace of mind.

Yuan Shen, reflecting on how intense love had brought pain to his own family, concluded that Huo Buyi, with his deeper and more "foolish" devotion, was more worthy of Shaoshang's love, and he wished for her to be with the best person. A few days later, Shaoshang embarked on her journey to Empress Xuan's homeland, accompanied by her brother. As they passed Hua County, Lou Li appeared, inviting Shaoshang to Lou Yao's residence.

Lou Li explained that Lou Yao, unable to come himself due to He Zhaojun's impending labor, wanted Shaoshang to see how much Hua County had flourished from its former shabby state. Shaoshang agreed to visit but left her brother and the Empress's mourning items outside the town, citing the tradition against bringing such items to a pregnant woman. While traveling through the county, Shaoshang noticed Lou Li's unusual demeanor.

Lou Li, dressed in black mourning clothes for her recently deceased parents, also noted fewer guards in the city, explaining they had been dispatched to assist Yuan Shen with the Land Distribution Order in the State of Yu. At the banquet, Lou Yao and He Zhaojun greeted Shaoshang, but Lou Yao expressed surprise at her visit, stating he had not invited her. Shaoshang remained calm, though now suspicious. Lou Li quickly interjected that she had invited Shaoshang herself.

Lou Yao then apologized for his sister’s past behavior, attributing it to family misfortunes. Shaoshang, however, noticed an empty seat at the table. Suddenly, He Zhaojun experienced severe abdominal pain, signaling premature labor. Lou Yao rushed to find a physician, only to learn that Madam Chen, the local female physician specializing in childbirth, was out of town. Lou Li urged Shaoshang, as a woman, to help carry He Zhaojun to the family temple.

Unbeknownst to them, Huo Buyi's Black Armored Guards, having been ambushed in a bamboo forest, discovered dozens of corpses in nearby drains, identified as Hua County guards and Yuan Shen’s household troops. Huo Buyi immediately ordered his men to Hua County. At the family temple, after the other attendants were dismissed, Lou Li, revealing her sinister intent, called out Shaoshang’s name and prepared to attack. Shaoshang noticed the unusual presence of a family temple within the county office, questioning who might be cultivating there.

Episode 55 Recap

Consumed by grief and a desire for revenge over her family's deaths, Lou Li lunged at Cheng Shaoshang, vowing to take her life for what she believed was Cheng Shaoshang's role in Lou Ben's suicide and her family's ruin. Cheng Shaoshang, noting an empty seat at the banquet, pressed Lou Li about the mastermind behind her actions and who the seat was for.

Lou Li cryptically told her that many wished her dead and she could ask Lou Ben herself in the afterlife. Meanwhile, Cheng Shaoshang urged He Zhaojun, who was struggling with discomfort, to examine a shrine in the room for a hidden mechanism. He Zhaojun quickly discovered the mechanism, which opened a secret passage, and called Cheng Shaoshang to enter. As Cheng Shaoshang and He Zhaojun disappeared into the secret chamber, Wang Yanji emerged from the shadows to confront Lou Li.

Thanking her for luring Cheng Shaoshang, Wang Yanji declared her now useless and killed her. In her final moments, Lou Li recognized Wang Yanji and shockingly realized that Wang Yanji was responsible for her parents' deaths. Inside the hidden room, Cheng Shaoshang was stunned to find Yuan Shen, battered and bound by a long chain.

Yuan Shen explained that he had been assisting the Third Prince in implementing the Land Distribution Order when he uncovered a plot to stockpile large amounts of kerosene along the Third Prince's route to Guo Village. He attempted to warn the Third Prince but was discovered and kidnapped. Yuan Shen pleaded with Cheng Shaoshang to escape and seek help, claiming the elaborate chain lock was impossible to open.

Cheng Shaoshang, however, scoffed, asserting there was no lock she couldn't solve, provided Yuan Shen remained silent. Outside, Huo Buyi and his black armored guards arrived in Hua County, sensing something amiss among the local merchants. These individuals, remnants of Emperor Li, were trying to separate Huo Buyi from his guards and lure him into a trap. Huo Buyi, believing someone immensely important to him was inside, decisively plunged into the trap.

There, he found Cheng Shaoshang, much to his relief. The stone door sealed behind them, and oil lamps embedded in the walls flickered to life, illuminating Lou Ben's ancestral tablet. Wang Yanji then stepped fully into view. Wang Yanji revealed that she had not died when she jumped into the river years ago but was rescued by Tian Shuo. With his help, she had orchestrated a five-year revenge plan.

Huo Buyi confronted her, acknowledging her right to seek revenge on him but arguing that Cheng Shaoshang was merely searching for her father and Yuan Shen was performing his duty; they were innocent. Wang Yanji fiercely rejected this, proclaiming that the world had been unfair to her unappreciated husband, and no one was innocent except Lou Ben.

She accused Cheng Shaoshang of betrayal despite her past kindness and of causing Lou Ben's death, and stated that Yuan Shen had to die for knowing too much and attempting to foil her plans. When asked about He Zhaojun, Wang Yanji claimed Lou Yao never loved her and only married her under duress from the Lou family's First Chamber. She believed He Zhaojun's death would free Lou Yao from his suffering, echoing Lou Ben's concern for his younger brother.

Cheng Shaoshang urged He Zhaojun not to believe Wang Yanji's lies, assuring her that Lou Yao was on his way. Indeed, a scene unfolded where Lou Yao frantically searched for a physician in the heavy rain, desperately seeking help for He Zhaojun, who was in labor. He refused to let the danger deter him, prioritizing his wife's life above all else, which contradicted Wang Yanji’s claims of his indifference.

Wang Yanji then disclosed her alliance with Tian Shuo, revealing he had deployed 500 assassins and 1000 soldiers and had set a trap with large amounts of kerosene on the Third Prince's path to Guo Village, ensuring Huo Buyi would be unable to rescue him. Cheng Shaoshang tried to persuade Wang Yanji that Lou Ben was not worth such sacrifice, arguing that his ambition had always overshadowed their life together.

Huo Buyi, reflecting on his own past mistakes, expressed deep regret for having abandoned Cheng Shaoshang to pursue his revenge, acknowledging he should have married her and walked a righteous path with her. Cheng Shaoshang used Huo Buyi’s repentance to suggest that Lou Ben might have also regretted his actions. She recalled Lou Ben gifting her a landscape painting and advising her to "look at the sky and the earth, and never trap yourself in the heart" when facing difficulties.

She questioned whether Lou Ben, who loved the land, would truly want to see Wang Yanji destroy it by allying with rebels and bringing shame upon his name. Wang Yanji, unwavering, declared she would go to him regardless and if he hated her, he could question her himself. She reminisced about Lou Ben's promise to take her to the Penglai Fairyland. Finally, Wang Yanji ignited the kerosene, intending to die with them all. Flames erupted and spread across the ground.

Just as the fire neared them, a thunderous explosion sounded, and the stone door above them dramatically opened. Liangqiu Qi and the black armored guards had arrived. He Zhaojun and Yuan Shen quickly climbed the ladder, followed by Cheng Shaoshang. As Huo Buyi prepared to ascend, Wang Yanji, in a final act of desperation, rushed out and embraced him, preventing his escape. The closing mechanism of the door began to engage.

Huo Buyi, understanding the dire situation, emphatically ordered his subordinates to take Cheng Shaoshang to safety, even as she desperately cried out for him. With tears in their eyes, the Liang brothers forcibly dragged Cheng Shaoshang away as the final explosion consumed the chamber. In the aftermath, everyone was safely rescued except Huo Buyi.

Cheng Shaoshang collapsed in despair amidst the ruins, tearfully regretting her past anger and wishing only for his survival, having long ago forgiven him in her heart. Just as hopelessness threatened to overwhelm her, Liangqiu Qi shouted, "Young Master!" revealing that Huo Buyi had escaped through a secret passage, similar to how Wang Yanji had accessed the underground mourning hall. The two reunited in a tight embrace.

Lou Yao, too, rushed to He Zhaojun, expressing his profound love and relief that she was alive, reminding her of their vows to grow old together and build a home in Hua County, confirming his deep affection for her. Yuan Shen, observing the emotional reunions, wryly reminded them of the urgent need to save the Third Prince. He emphasized the critical importance of the Third Prince's safety to the stability of the empire.

Cheng Shaoshang proposed a plan: Huo Buyi would go to rescue the Third Prince, while she would stay to protect the people of Guo Village, anticipating Tian Shuo's wrath if his ambush failed. Despite Huo Buyi's concerns for her safety, Cheng Shaoshang asserted that having been born in peaceful times to a loving family, she was unafraid and intended to live her life according to her heart, protecting the innocent.

Huo Buyi, acknowledging her as the only person who could truly stand by his side, vowed not to stop her. Together, they resolved to face the challenges ahead. Meanwhile, Tian Shuo ambushed the Third Prince’s convoy. With significantly superior forces, Tian Shuo soon had the Third Prince cornered. The Third Prince, refusing to surrender, declared he would rather die fighting than retreat. Just as he was about to fall, Huo Buyi arrived, confronting Tian Shuo.

Tian Shuo, shocked that Huo Buyi was alive, lunged at him, but Huo Buyi swiftly foiled his attack. Calling Wang Yanji useless, Tian Shuo was then surrounded by Huo Buyi's black armored guards, who moved in for the kill.

Episode 56 (Ending) Recap

Cheng Shaoshang, in Guo Village, directed the removal of discovered kerosene, emphasizing its flammability and the need to keep it out of direct sunlight. A subordinate reported finding only one well and a shallow pond, raising concerns about insufficient water for firefighting. Shaoshang, recalling Guo Village's reputation as the "world's granary" capable of feeding multiple capitals, insisted there must be more water sources.

She quickly dispatched a man named Qi to inquire with villagers about the mountain water used for irrigation. She then realized that since Wang Yanji had mentioned Tian Shuo planned to ambush the Crown Prince with a large quantity of kerosene, he wouldn't merely target one village. Shaoshang surmised that Tian Shuo intended to use the wind to spread the fire, incinerating the entire Yu State's harvest, leading to widespread famine and thus destabilizing the nation's foundation.

Suddenly, a volley of arrows rained down on the village, striking many innocent villagers. Fires erupted everywhere, and kerosene was discovered hidden even in pickle jars. Despite repeated efforts to douse the flames with water, the fires intensified, prompting Shaoshang to order everyone to use sand to smother them. Meanwhile, a triumphant Tian Shuo watched the rising smoke and flames from a distance, believing his intricate plan was unfolding perfectly.

He taunted Huo Buyi, asserting that despite his presumed foresight, everything was proceeding according to Tian Shuo's design. Tian Shuo boasted that with two hundred of his men and a hundred stones of kerosene in Guo Village, he would devastate the region's crops, causing widespread starvation and challenging Emperor Wen's reputation for benevolence. He then mocked Huo Buyi, questioning how he would face public opinion if he prioritized saving the imperial lineage over the common people.

The Third Prince, who was with Huo Buyi, urged him to abandon him and rush to Guo Village to save the crops and its people. Huo Buyi, however, stated his unwavering trust in Cheng Shaoshang, believing she would keep Guo Village safe. The Third Prince then appealed to Huo Buyi's emotions, reminding him of his past failure with Shaoshang and warning that abandoning her again in such danger would mean losing her forgiveness forever.

Despite the Third Prince's pleas, Huo Buyi chose to trust Cheng Shaoshang's intelligence and courage to protect Guo Village, stating they had agreed to face challenges together. He vowed to stand by his earlier decision to deal with Tian Shuo, confident that Shaoshang would not blame him this time.

Tian Shuo continued to provoke Huo Buyi during their battle, calling him a "pitiful lackey to those in power" and accusing Emperor Wen of promoting the true culprit behind the Huo family's tragedy. He claimed Huo Buyi's quest for revenge had alienated his beloved. Huo Buyi swiftly defeated Tian Shuo, delivering a fatal blow to his chest.

Before Tian Shuo died, Huo Buyi revealed that when Emperor Li perished, all significant officials and palace servants were buried with him, but Tian Shuo had survived only because he was utterly unknown, as "insignificant as an ant." Tian Shuo furiously denied this, insisting his master had spared him to exact revenge.

Huo Buyi retorted that Emperor Li likely never even remembered Tian Shuo's name, concluding that despite all his machinations, Tian Shuo had accomplished nothing and would be forgotten by history. Having secured the victory, Huo Buyi immediately commanded his black armored guards to head to Guo Village. Back in Guo Village, Cheng Shaoshang and her group found themselves surrounded and outnumbered.

Just as they were at their most vulnerable, Cheng Shi and his wife, Xiao Yuanyi, arrived with the rest of the Cheng family, providing much-needed reinforcement. Xiao Yuanyi fiercely declared that no one would harm her daughter. Shaoshang quickly issued orders: her parents were to hold off the enemy to buy time, while she focused on extinguishing the fire.

She instructed Cheng Song to gather men and deepen the ditch between the village and the mountain stream to prevent the fire from spreading further up the mountain, emphasizing that the fate of the "world's granary" depended on him. She then tasked Wan Qiqi, Cheng Zhi, and Cheng Yang with providing sand to smother the flames.

By the time Huo Buyi arrived, inquiring about Shaoshang's whereabouts, the two hundred warriors Tian Shuo had deployed were already slain, and the fires completely extinguished. Huo Buyi saw Cheng Shaoshang, disheveled and covered in ash, but to him, she was still the most beautiful woman. They ran to each other and embraced tightly, with Shaoshang joyfully proclaiming their victory.

The weary and injured Cheng family and their troops watched with a sense of relief and pride, witnessing the enduring bond between hero and maiden. Later that night, amidst scattered campfires across the vast plain, Liang Qiu Fei wept in the infirmary, expressing remorse to Huo Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang.

He confessed that during their time in the Northwest, he had encouraged Huo Buyi to marry Luo Jitong and now felt immense guilt, relieved that Huo Buyi and Shaoshang were finally set to marry. Cheng Song, overhearing their conversation, mused that the Liang brothers were simply too inexperienced with women, then began recounting tales of his numerous female confidantes.

Wan Qiqi, arriving with medicine, was mischievously informed by Cheng Shaogong about Cheng Song's many "five, six, seven, eight female friends," leading to Wan Qiqi angrily confronting and beating Cheng Song. Meanwhile, Huo Buyi found Yuan Shen still recuperating and pressed him to get up, mentioning that Cheng Shaoshang had inquired about his condition several times. Yuan Shen, feigning more severe injuries than he had, told Huo Buyi to inform Shaoshang he was fine.

Before Huo Buyi departed, Yuan Shen stopped him for a final conversation. Yuan Shen admitted his mistaken belief that Shaoshang was like him. He revealed that due to his parents' troubled relationship, he had always detested deep and unwavering affections, viewing intense emotions as harmful blades and poisons that could derail one's career and ambitions, preferring a marriage based on mutual respect.

However, witnessing Shaoshang's loyalty and deep feelings, and realizing Huo Buyi shared the same character, he understood his defeat. Yuan Shen genuinely blessed them, stating that he had finally seen Shaoshang and Huo Buyi for the deeply feeling individuals they truly were. Huo Buyi thanked Yuan Shen for his support during Shaoshang's difficult five years and promised that he would never again cause her sadness. As Huo Buyi walked out, he saw Cheng Shaoshang nearby.

Under the beautiful moonlight, with a cool breeze gently stirring their hearts, Shaoshang confronted Huo Buyi about his delayed arrival in Guo Village, questioning if he had trusted her too much and wasn't afraid she would be harmed. Huo Buyi admitted his fear, but confessed he had resolved that if anything happened to her, he would not wish to live on without her.

Shaoshang dismissed this as a joke, but then expressed her profound gratitude for his trust, which allowed her to stand by him and share his burdens. She wished for him to live a more fulfilling life even if something were to happen to her. They watched shooting stars, and Huo Buyi shared a belief that deceased loved ones become stars that twinkle in response to their words.

Shaoshang then spoke to the stars, addressing the Empress, her father, and her mother, telling them she had found the person with whom she wanted to spend her life. Huo Buyi confirmed that the Empress, who had wished for their reunion, must be happy for them. Shaoshang then praised Huo Buyi, calling him the "best man in the world" with a pure and sincere heart, feeling thrice blessed to have met him.

Huo Buyi reciprocated, calling Shaoshang the "purest, kindest, and most steadfast lady in the world," and also felt thrice blessed to have encountered her. They shared a loving kiss. Cheng Shi and his wife then approached, solemnly entrusting their daughter to Huo Buyi. Cheng Shi, with a touch of his usual bluster, warned Huo Buyi that if he ever wronged "Niaoniao," the entire Cheng family would storm his general's residence to demand justice.

Huo Buyi simply replied, "I will," his devotion evident. Far away in the capital, Old Madam Cheng was overjoyed upon hearing that Huo Buyi and Cheng Shaoshang had reconciled and were to be married in Hua County, envisioning countless dowry chests arriving at their home. However, Emperor Wen was thrown into a frantic fit, pacing anxiously.

He couldn't believe they were marrying in Hua County, lamenting that after years of worrying about Huo Buyi's marriage, he wouldn't be able to attend the wedding. He declared the Hua County ceremony invalid and demanded they return to the capital for another wedding, only to be ignored by Empress Yue, who simply closed her door on his incessant complaints. A serene autumn night settled over the vast plains, dotted with campfires. Many looked up at the star-filled sky, a breathtaking tapestry of jewels against the deep blue, silently wishing for peace and the lasting happiness of lovers reunited.