Marvelous Women Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Marvelous Women Synopsis
The Ren family of Suzhou has inherited the position of the leading weaver in the Suzhou Weaving Department and possesses the secret technology of the Chinese silk tapestry.
The head of the family, Ren Xuetang, never participated in the family business and only loved to study poetry, calligraphy, and painting. The wife of Ren, Shen Cuixi, was not only a good embroiderer, but also a good manager, and was the real head mother of the Ren family.
Ren and Shen have been married for many years, but Ren Xuetang has never forgotten his former lover, Zeng Baoqin.
He wanted to bring her back to the Ren family, but unexpectedly, he had an accident while chasing a water bandit and his whereabouts were unknown. Ren’s family was in crisis.
Shen Cuixi took the responsibility for saving the Ren family. Fortunately, with the help of Zeng Baoqin, she finally cleared the treat-unjustly and returned to the former peace after experiencing millions of hardships and setbacks.
Marvelous Women Recap
Episode 1 Recap
The story unfolds during the Qianlong era of the Qing Dynasty, centered around Kesi, a refined traditional Chinese silk art regarded as a priceless cultural asset. It chronicles the journey of a woman from a Kesi family who, through her determined efforts, transcends feudal constraints to independently establish a Kesi school, meticulously showcasing the entire process of Kesi technology's origin, development, and flourishing, thereby allowing for a deeper appreciation of profound Chinese culture.
Shen Cuixi, the formidable first lady of the Ren family—the largest silk weaving household in Jiangnan—has carved a successful business path in Suzhou through her own endeavors. Her husband, Ren Xuetang, the eldest master of the Ren family, who historically avoided family business to pursue poetry and calligraphy, maintains a difficult marriage with Shen Cuixi despite their years together.
He secretly meets Zeng Baoqin, his childhood sweetheart and the pampered daughter of a former Suzhou prefect who later became a courtesan after her family's downfall. Ren Xuetang meets Zeng Baoqin under the guise of meeting literary friends or listening to her sing opera in a private room. Upon learning of his infidelity, Shen Cuixi confronts them, bursting into their private room and slapping Zeng Baoqin.
Zeng Baoqin, seeking to prove her devotion, threatens to commit suicide with a pair of scissors, stating she would rather die than cause Ren Xuetang any harm. Shen Cuixi, however, swiftly intervenes, disarming her and warning that while Zeng Baoqin's life might be insignificant, her death on Ren family property would lead to Ren Xuetang's banishment and forced servitude.
As Shen Cuixi escorts Ren Xuetang back to the estate, local gossips comment on Shen Cuixi's long-standing childlessness, suggesting Ren Xuetang's actions were justified to secure an heir for the family. Back at the estate, Zeng Baoqin tells her maid, Ru Yi, that Shen Cuixi is merely a "beggar" fostered by the Ren family, while she and Ren Xuetang share a bond forged from childhood that is "stronger than gold."
Shen Cuixi questions Ren Xuetang about his intentions for Zeng Baoqin, asserting that Zeng Baoqin's status as a courtesan would only bring ruin to Ren Xuetang, a respected scholar and a successful candidate in the imperial examinations. Ren Xuetang, however, staunchly defends Zeng Baoqin, declaring he cannot abandon her in her misfortune.
He reveals he has already redeemed Zeng Baoqin, freeing her from her courtesan status, and firmly warns Shen Cuixi never to mention it again, demanding she respect his feelings. Shen Cuixi, infuriated by his stance, falls ill. Her maid, Qiao'er, offers unsolicited advice, suggesting Shen Cuixi flatter Ren Xuetang as Zeng Baoqin does to win his affection. Enraged, Shen Cuixi knocks over her medicine and orders Qiao'er to kneel outside.
Meanwhile, Ren Rufeng, the second master of the Ren family, is a compulsive gambler. After losing all his money at the casino, he is approached by Zhang Biao, who claims to be a Guangzhou merchant and offers him a loan. Ren Rufeng uses the money to continue gambling but loses again and returns home discreetly.
He sees Ren Xuetang's confidant, Shu Yan, tied up, and learns from his mother, Chen Xiaohong, that Ren Xuetang has brought Zeng Baoqin to reside on Shantang Street, a widely known fact in Suzhou. Later, Zhang Biao visits the Ren estate, repaying his previous loan. He claims to be a representative of a Guangzhou weaving business seeking to purchase a large quantity of raw silk and brocade in Suzhou, as other merchants are reluctant to sell.
He asks Ren Rufeng for help procuring raw silk, promising him substantial profits. Tempted by the money, Ren Rufeng readily agrees. Shen Cuixi instructs Shu Fang to deliver several boxes of account books to Ren Xuetang. Ren Xuetang, noting Ren Rufeng's age, advises him to learn how to manage the family's responsibilities by reviewing the account books. While looking through them, Ren Rufeng discovers the immense sums Ren Xuetang has spent on Zeng Baoqin over the years.
His mother, Chen Xiaohong, acknowledges Shen Cuixi's crucial role in sustaining the Ren family during past difficulties but laments that Ren Xuetang's heart is entirely with Zeng Baoqin, believing Shen Cuixi cannot compete. Chen Xiaohong gives her entire savings to Ren Rufeng, urging him to pursue good business opportunities, as she believes he is genuinely engaging in commerce. At the same time, the Suzhou weaving official, Li Zhao, places a massive order for Kesi brocade with the Ren family.
Faced with insufficient stock, Ren Xuetang, despite his inexperience in business, is determined to procure the necessary raw silk, even at a loss. However, upon attempting to buy raw silk from Manager Lu, he discovers that Ren Rufeng has already purchased all the available high-quality stock. Ren Xuetang confronts Ren Rufeng, who falsely claims Shen Cuixi instructed him to buy the silk to keep Ren Xuetang at home and away from Zeng Baoqin.
Misled and enraged, Ren Xuetang accuses Shen Cuixi of being ruthless and declares his intention to bring Zeng Baoqin back to the Ren estate. Suppressing her emotional pain, Shen Cuixi instructs Shu Fang to track Ren Rufeng. Shu Fang and her people locate Ren Rufeng at the docks, engaged in a transaction with Zhang Biao and his associates. Upon their arrival, Zhang Biao and the water bandits quickly flee.
Shu Fang apprehends Ren Rufeng and brings him back to the Ren estate, where he kneels in the ancestral hall, confessing that Shen Cuixi did not instruct him to buy the silk. Ren Xuetang pleads for leniency for his brother, but Shen Cuixi reveals the grave truth: Zhang Biao is not a legitimate Guangzhou merchant but a notorious water bandit active in the South and East Seas. She scolds Ren Rufeng for his carelessness in dealing with such a dangerous individual, who Ren Rufeng still believed was merely a small-time criminal.
Episode 2 Recap
Ren Xuetang discovered the gravity of the situation: the Emperor's strict ban on sea trade meant that harboring any person from the South Seas or East Seas was punishable by death. Ren Rufeng had caused immense trouble by being closely associated with Zhang Biao, who was identified as a water bandit. The Emperor had previously decreed that anyone connected to water bandits would face beheading. Ren Rufeng acknowledged his mistake, appearing dejected while preparing medicine for his mother.
Ren Xuetang scolded him for bringing such calamity upon the Ren family for meager gain, but ultimately did not impose further punishment. To protect the Ren family, Shen Cuixi proposed the only viable solution: inviting "Seventh Uncle" to formally remove Ren Rufeng's name from the family register, thereby disowning him to shield the rest of the household.
Upon hearing this, Ren Rufeng's mother, Chen Xiaohong, cried and knelt in protest before collapsing, seemingly suffering a stroke according to the doctor (Doctor Hu in one account). However, Shen Cuixi discerned that Chen Xiaohong was feigning illness and, when alone, confronted and roused her. Chen Xiaohong confessed that she and Ren Rufeng had been secretly accumulating private funds because she feared Zeng Baoqin's future entry into the family would disrupt their stability.
Shen Cuixi, feeling a pang of pity, did not blame her. Instead, she retrieved a box containing property and money originally bequeathed by Ren Xuetang's parents (the old master) to Chen Xiaohong and Ren Rufeng, assets Shen Cuixi had managed but which were rightfully theirs. She handed these over to Chen Xiaohong, ensuring their financial security.
Her sole condition was that neither Chen Xiaohong nor Ren Rufeng must ever offer any assistance to Zeng Baoqin once she joined the family; otherwise, Shen Cuixi would turn against them. Despite the escalating family crisis, Ru Yi, Zeng Baoqin's personal maid, arrived at the Ren residence, tearfully seeking Ren Xuetang.
After Shu Yan escorted Ru Yi to the study, Ren Xuetang learned from her that Shen Cuixi had cut off all expenses for Shantang Street, where Zeng Baoqin was residing. He immediately gave Ru Yi all his private money and prepared to leave with her to visit Zeng Baoqin. However, Shen Cuixi, having learned of his intentions, intercepted Ren Xuetang, forcefully keeping him at home.
She instructed Shu Fang and Qiao'er to retrieve Ren Xuetang's private funds from Ru Yi and then expelled Ru Yi from the household, forbidding her return without permission. Shen Cuixi then brought Ren Xuetang to the study and presented him with the shockingly large ledger of expenses for Shantang Street, emphasizing the extravagant costs for mere daily living.
She reminded him of the Zeng family's downfall, with Zeng Baoqin being the sole survivor, and cautioned that Zeng Baoqin might have drastically changed after her experiences, which included five years spent in prison and brothels. Shen Cuixi challenged Ren Xuetang to consider if Zeng Baoqin's affection for him was still genuine, questioning if she would truly stand by him in times of crisis. Influenced by Shen Cuixi's words, Ren Xuetang decided to test Zeng Baoqin.
He visited her at Shantang Street and falsely claimed the Ren family was facing ruin. That night, Ren Xuetang stayed with her. However, Zeng Baoqin, after some hesitation, attempted to flee with Ru Yi, packing valuables such as gold, silver, pearls, and jewelry, while Ren Xuetang was supposedly asleep. As they opened the courtyard gate amidst a downpour, they were shocked to find Shu Yan there. They hastily retreated, only to be confronted by a heartbroken and enraged Ren Xuetang.
Ren Xuetang was deeply saddened, realizing that to Zeng Baoqin, he was less important than material wealth. Zeng Baoqin knelt, tearfully begging for forgiveness, explaining the torture and suffering she endured in prison, specifically mentioning confinement in a "box bed" where she lost track of day and night, vowing never to relive such experiences. She then revealed she was pregnant, having missed her period, and a doctor had confirmed she was two months along.
She claimed her attempt to flee was for the sake of their child, stating she could endure any hardship herself but could not allow their child to suffer. While Ren Xuetang understood her past hardships and believed her affection for him was genuine, her actions still deeply hurt him. He questioned whether she would always abandon him with valuables whenever the Ren family faced difficulties.
He was heartbroken, accusing her of revealing the pregnancy at such a critical moment, making him doubt her true intentions. Before leaving Shantang Street, Ren Xuetang ordered Shu Yan to lock the courtyard gate, explicitly forbidding Zeng Baoqin from leaving the premises. Upon returning home, Ren Xuetang informed Shen Cuixi about the situation at Shantang Street, confirming he had assigned Shu Yan to watch over Zeng Baoqin.
Their relationship eased, as Shen Cuixi had also sent people to investigate Zhang Biao. The following day, Ren Xuetang met Li Zhao, an official, at the Weaving Bureau. Li Zhao brought up the continually rising prices of raw silk, which the Weaving Bureau had been investigating. While failing to find the direct cause, they discovered South Seas water bandits frequently violating the imperial sea ban to buy raw silk in Suzhou, disrupting market prices.
Li Zhao revealed that Zhang Biao, posing as a Guangzhou merchant, was closely associated with Ren Rufeng, and warned that any proximity to water bandits, even sharing a meal, was a grave crime punishable by confiscation of property and extermination of the family. Ren Xuetang, though inwardly nervous, maintained a composed facade, feigning ignorance and asserting that Ren Rufeng was simple-minded and lacked the courage to engage in business with water bandits.
Li Zhao, seemingly lacking definitive evidence, let the subject drop, though his words indicated the situation was more complex than it appeared. Ren Xuetang relayed Li Zhao's probing questions to Shen Cuixi, who suspected the Ren family was the true target of the investigation. Fearing the authorities would implicate the Ren family through Zhang Biao's case, Shen Cuixi concluded they could not afford to wait and must apprehend Zhang Biao before the officials did.
Zeng Baoqin remained confined at Shantang Street, her pregnancy progressing. After approximately 182 days (over 100 days) without a visit, she schemed to see Ren Xuetang. Noticing Ru Yi's affection for Shu Yan, Zeng Baoqin leveraged this to her advantage, sending Ru Yi with magnolia flowers to Shu Yan, instructing him to deliver them to Ren Xuetang as a message.
As anticipated, Ren Xuetang, upon seeing the magnolia flowers, was overcome with longing for Zeng Baoqin and immediately arranged for a sedan chair to Shantang Street. Shen Cuixi observed Ren Xuetang's departure but did not intervene, understanding that his heart belonged to Zeng Baoqin and any attempt to stop him would be pointless. After such a long separation, Ren Xuetang's affection for Zeng Baoqin had not waned; in fact, it had intensified. The moment he saw her, he completely forgave her past actions and even joined her in looking at items for their unborn child.
Episode 3 Recap
Ren Xuetang spent a night with Zeng Baoqin at Shantang Street, leaving Shen Cuixi alone in her cold bed, deeply upset and unable to sleep, resorting to working on kèsī embroidery. Upon his return, Ren Xuetang encountered Shu Yan and Ru Yi embracing; Shu Yan quickly knelt to confess his sincere intention to marry Ru Yi.
Ren Xuetang then informed Shen Cuixi that Zeng Baoqin was about to give birth, and he needed to provide for the child, planning to formally take Zeng Baoqin as a concubine on the twenty-fifth of the month, considering it the best arrangement for everyone. Shen Cuixi responded that she would comply, acknowledging Ren Xuetang's decision.
As the Ren family began preparing for the concubine ceremony, Zeng Baoqin found the concubine dress's color undignified, not red enough, and desired a more steady and appropriate color. Shen Cuixi was displeased, asserting that a concubine could not use proper red. She instructed her capable maidservants, Qiao'er and Shu Fang, to deliver the dress back to Shantang Street.
Outside Zeng Baoqin's residence, Qiao'er sarcastically remarked that Zeng Baoqin was merely a concubine, implying that if she wasn't put in her place, Shen Cuixi would face difficulties. Though Shu Fang, being kind, pulled Qiao'er away, her words deeply stung Zeng Baoqin.
Ru Yi tried to defend Zeng Baoqin but was stopped, as Zeng Baoqin acknowledged that Qiao'er and Shu Fang were Shen Cuixi's most trusted maidservants, whom Ru Yi would have to address as "sisters" once Zeng Baoqin joined the Ren family. Zeng Baoqin's sole hope rested on Ren Xuetang, believing he would support her.
She later tried to persuade Ren Xuetang to make Shen Cuixi change her dress to a "big red" color, but Shen Cuixi refused with logical arguments that left Ren Xuetang speechless. Ren Xuetang was displeased by Shen Cuixi's decision to send Shu Fang and Qiao'er to Shantang Street, perceiving it as an attempt to humiliate Zeng Baoqin.
Shen Cuixi, however, wished Ren Xuetang to understand that Zeng Baoqin was entering the Ren family as a concubine and must adhere to the rules governing concubines. She questioned Ren Xuetang whether he would always protect Zeng Baoqin if she made mistakes or felt wronged, suggesting that doing so would undermine Shen Cuixi's authority as the mistress of the house.
Shen Cuixi went to inspect the preparations in Zeng Baoqin's back house courtyard, where she discovered a "rotating bucket" installed, with staff claiming it was standard practice for distinguished families. She worried about fire hazards and clarified that her intention was only for Zeng Baoqin to be well-behaved, not to subject her to such arrangements or mistreat her, which included sealing the courtyard door and only leaving an opening for food.
Upon learning that the canal ran behind the wall, Shen Cuixi ordered a new door to be opened there. Ren Xuetang observed or heard all of Shen Cuixi's actions and words during this time, which led him to question and change his view of her, wondering what kind of person she truly was. Shu Yan praised Shen Cuixi as amiable, fair in rewards and punishments, and upright as a housekeeper.
Ren Xuetang personally delivered the concubine dress back to Zeng Baoqin, advising her to curb her temper and learn to abide by the rules of a concubine. Zeng Baoqin was heartbroken, feeling that she was special to Ren Xuetang, yet he had chosen to make her suffer. She argued with him, but Ren Xuetang left the dress without further comment. He then reflected on Shen Cuixi's goodness and wished he could satisfy both women.
Zeng Baoqin was deeply saddened by the non-red dress, contrasting it with her past dream of a grand wedding in a phoenix coronet and robes. She realized that constantly clashing with Shen Cuixi was pointless and would only trouble Ren Xuetang, but she struggled to control herself. While on a boat trip, Ren Xuetang asked Shu Yan about Ru Yi's background.
Shu Yan admitted that Ru Yi's background was difficult; she had no father, and her mother was a musician from Yangzhou, where Ru Yi had lived since birth. Despite this, Shu Yan still wanted to be with Ru Yi. Ren Xuetang warned Shu Yan that his family would not agree to the marriage, but if he was sincere, Ren Xuetang would help him. Shen Cuixi received urgent news that Zhang Biao's whereabouts had been discovered in the Dantou waterways.
Ren Xuetang immediately decided to lead men to pursue Zhang Biao. He returned to the mansion and asked Shen Cuixi to care for Zeng Baoqin, as he did not know when he would return. Shen Cuixi refused to bring Zeng Baoqin into the mansion, stating it was against rules and everything should wait for Ren Xuetang's return, though she promised to take care of Zeng Baoqin.
Before his departure, knowing the inherent risks of the mission, Ren Xuetang instructed Shu Yan to bid farewell to Ru Yi. Shu Yan rushed to Ru Yi, promising to marry her and asking her to wait for him. Ren Xuetang and his men tracked Zhang Biao to Dantou but fell into an ambush by water bandits. Arrows, identified by Ren Xuetang as military arrows, rained down.
He ordered everyone to dive into the water, only to find water bandits there too. Ren Xuetang covered Shu Yan's escape, instructing him that if he survived, he must tell Shen Cuixi that "official powers" were behind Zhang Biao. Ren Xuetang was then shot by an arrow and fell into the lake, his fate and whereabouts unknown.
After reading a letter from Ren Xuetang, Zeng Baoqin saw the incense in her courtyard self-extinguish, which startled her as it signified a major event for a male family member. Feeling uneasy, and despite anticipating potential humiliation, she decided to go to the Ren mansion to inquire about Ren Xuetang's return. Upon arriving at the Ren family gate, Zeng Baoqin saw Shu Yan being carried back. This sight agitated her, and she experienced abdominal pain, immediately going into labor.
Shen Cuixi quickly sent for a doctor and, recognizing Zeng Baoqin's labor, ensured she was carried inside and called for a midwife. Zeng Baoqin subsequently gave birth to a healthy son. Shu Yan, merely frightened, quickly woke up. He told Shen Cuixi that they had encountered water bandits in Dantou and he became separated from Ren Xuetang after falling into the water. He relayed Ren Xuetang's message: Zhang Biao was backed by "official powers."
Shen Cuixi learned there were two factions of "official powers" in Suzhou City: Li Zhao of the Weaving Bureau and Suzhou Prefect Cao Wenbin. She did not know who was truly behind Zhang Biao. Shen Cuixi dispatched Shu Fang to send people to search for Ren Xuetang, with Shu Fang emphasizing that finding him was the most urgent priority to uncover the truth. Shen Cuixi also told Shu Fang to remind Ren Rufeng to control his tongue to avoid trouble.
Episode 4 Recap
Upon learning of Ren Xuetang's disappearance, the Ren clan elders, including the Third, Fifth, and Seventh Uncle-Grandfathers, arrived at the Ren family residence. Chen Xiaohong immediately urged her son, Ren Rufeng, to greet them, dreaming of the day he would achieve prominence, while Aunt-Grandmother also quickly dispatched Ren Rufeng to meet them, expecting he would soon become the family head.
Shen Cuixi, aware of the elders' intentions and knowing their visit would not be for a good reason, promptly brought out the family head token. The elders argued that it was highly inappropriate for Shen Cuixi, a woman, to manage such a vast family business and the livelihoods of nearly a thousand weavers. They insisted that Ren Rufeng, as Ren Xuetang's brother, should assume this responsibility.
Chen Xiaohong also tried to persuade Shen Cuixi to relinquish her position, suggesting Ren Rufeng would take over if any harm befell Ren Xuetang. Shen Cuixi immediately rejected this possibility. Presenting the family head token, Shen Cuixi stated that being the head was not about prestige but about effectively managing the finances. Ren Rufeng felt slighted, believing Shen Cuixi was looking down on him.
The elders further argued that Shen Cuixi, being "without husband and son," should allow Ren Rufeng to become the family head. However, Shen Cuixi countered by revealing that Ren Xuetang's concubine, Zeng Baoqin, had given birth to a son. As the legal wife, Shen Cuixi asserted that this child should rightfully be registered under her name.
She then challenged the elders and Ren Rufeng: if they were so insistent on her stepping down, could Ren Rufeng guarantee the continued business of the Ren family's sixty-three shops (South Seven North Six) and the livelihoods of nearly a thousand weavers? Ren Rufeng remained silent, clearly outmatched, thus confirming Shen Cuixi's indispensable role as the Ren family head. The elders then inquired about the child's whereabouts. Shen Cuixi went to Shantang Street to meet Zeng Baoqin.
Seeing Shen Cuixi intently staring at her son, Zeng Baoqin immediately became protective. Shen Cuixi asked if the child had been named, and Zeng Baoqin replied truthfully that Ren Xuetang had named him Xiushan. Shen Cuixi then arranged for Shu Fang to take the child away, with Zeng Baoqin initially resisting. Shen Cuixi explained that children are innocent and should not witness adult matters, which led Zeng Baoqin to allow Ru Yi to carry the child.
Shen Cuixi declared her intention to bring Ren Xiushan back to the Ren family to raise him, ensuring he would legitimately inherit the family business in the future. Misunderstanding Shen Cuixi's intentions, Zeng Baoqin believed she was also being accepted back into the Ren family. She knelt and respectfully offered tea, promising to be dutiful once inside the Ren residence.
Shen Cuixi clarified that she was only there to take the child and that Zeng Baoqin would not be allowed to enter the Ren family. Enraged, Zeng Baoqin smashed the teacup, accusing Shen Cuixi of going back on her word, asserting that otherwise, she and Ren Xuetang would have married years ago. Shen Cuixi, in turn, decided to settle a long-standing score. She affirmed that the idea of elopement years ago had originated from Zeng Baoqin.
She argued that Zeng Baoqin, as an official's daughter, could not have conceived of eloping on her own, suggesting someone must have deliberately put the idea in her head. Shen Cuixi warned that if Zeng Baoqin's parents had reported them, Ren Xuetang, a man of scholarly achievement, would have been stripped of his honors and forbidden from participating in imperial examinations for life.
Furthermore, if her parents had been more ruthless and accused Ren Xuetang of seducing a respectable woman, it would have been a capital offense. Shen Cuixi also reminded Zeng Baoqin of her past as an imprisoned "lehu" (entertainer/prostitute), warning that Ren Xiushan would not only face mockery and insults but also, as an illegitimate child, would be unable to hold office or participate in imperial examinations.
Despite Zeng Baoqin's stubbornness and refusal to give up the child, Shen Cuixi, surrounded by her people, offered Zeng Baoqin only two choices. Ultimately, Zeng Baoqin was forced to hand her son over to Shen Cuixi. Zeng Baoqin was filled with hatred for Shen Cuixi, vowing never to marry into the Ren family as a concubine and to one day avenge the "taking of her son."
On their way back, Shu Fang expressed confusion, questioning why Shen Cuixi would willingly acquire a reputation for jealousy when the wealthy Ren family could easily support Zeng Baoqin. Shen Cuixi explained that the Ren family was currently in a tumultuous period, and it was better to keep Zeng Baoqin out. She elaborated that Zeng Baoqin and Li Zhao were fellow apprentices with a very close relationship.
Shen Cuixi pondered what Zeng Baoqin would do if Li Zhao turned out to be the "official" Ren Xuetang had mentioned. Shen Cuixi also candidly admitted that while supporting Zeng Baoqin was not difficult, she feared losing control of her emotions; as the family matriarch, she possessed the authority to punish Zeng Baoqin as she wished, making it safer for Zeng Baoqin to remain outside the family.
Shu Fang worried that Zeng Baoqin might conspire with Li Zhao against Shen Cuixi. Shen Cuixi sighed, remarking that if Li Zhao were to assist Zeng Baoqin in an internal family matter, the true mastermind behind the attacks on the Ren family would be unmistakably revealed. Shen Cuixi returned home with Xiushan. Ren Rufeng was excited and eager to hold his nephew.
Initially, Shen Cuixi was wary, but seeing no malice in him, she allowed him to hold the child for a while. Meanwhile, Ru Yi joyfully approached Shu Yan in the street, but Shu Yan awkwardly asked her to pretend they didn't know each other. Ru Yi was deeply heartbroken, as Shu Yan had previously promised to marry her, and was now going back on his word.
Shu Yan's reluctance stemmed from his difficult position: Zeng Baoqin was Li Zhao's junior fellow apprentice, and Ru Yi was Zeng Baoqin's personal servant. If Li Zhao was indeed the person who harmed Ren Xuetang, Shu Yan would find himself in an impossible situation. Seeking help, Zeng Baoqin went to the Weaving Bureau to find her senior fellow apprentice, Li Zhao, to retrieve her child, citing the unforgivable grudge of having her son taken.
She requested Li Zhao to ruin the Ren family's business, making Shen Cuixi a public enemy, especially now that Shen Cuixi managed every aspect of the family. Li Zhao agreed without hesitation, which caused a pang of anxiety in Zeng Baoqin. Separately, Shen Cuixi began strictly teaching Qiao'er kesi (tapestry weaving) and embroidery techniques.
It was revealed that Qiao'er was preparing for marriage, and Shen Cuixi was concerned she wouldn't be able to support herself after leaving the Ren family, hence her dedication to imparting these skills. Shu Fang believed Qiao'er would eventually understand Shen Cuixi's thoughtful intentions. Later, Zeng Baoqin and Ru Yi were resting at a teahouse when they coincidentally saw a drunken Ren Rufeng. They overheard others gossiping about the Ren family, which made Zeng Baoqin deeply worried about her child's safety under Shen Cuixi's care.
Episode 5 Recap
Driven by concerns over soaring raw silk prices, Shen Cuixi, aided by Shu Fang, investigated the matter and suspected deliberate hoarding and price manipulation for profit. Shu Fang's diligent compilation of five years of data on mulberry farmers in Suzhou was instrumental in this endeavor. Shen Cuixi proposed that the four great weaving families of Suzhou—the Ren, Zhao, Zhang, and Lu families—unite to coordinate and establish a fair raw silk price, prioritizing market stability over identifying the hoarders.
The shopkeepers of these families agreed, leading to the establishment of a general accounting office, with the Ren family at its head. Meanwhile, Zeng Baoqin expressed worries to Li Zhao that the growing power of the Four Great Weaving Families might eventually diminish the weaving office's control over its affairs, including the pricing of imperial brocade.
Though Li Zhao initially advised Zeng Baoqin to focus on her own life and avoid actions that would ruin Shen Cuixi, he was swayed by her concerns about the families' expanding influence. He tacitly agreed to help her undermine Shen Cuixi, and openly offered his assistance if she truly intended to challenge Shen Cuixi. Zeng Baoqin, in turn, offered to help Li Zhao destroy the general accounting office on the condition that he accept Ren Xiushan as an apprentice.
Li Zhao readily promised to take Ren Xiushan as his apprentice, regardless of the success of their plan. Following this, Zeng Baoqin approached Ren Rufeng, proposing to open a silk weaving workshop and seeking to use the Ren family's "Qingyue" name. Ren Rufeng was hesitant, recognizing Zeng Baoqin's intention to directly compete with Shen Cuixi, but ultimately agreed after she further elaborated her request. Shen Cuixi, suspicious, assigned Shu Yan to discreetly follow Ren Rufeng.
While shadowing him, Shu Yan was confronted by Ru Yi, who clung to him. She brightened considerably upon learning that Shu Yan was not abandoning her, but rather that their marriage was on hold due to Ren Xuetang's missing status, which prevented them from making their own matrimonial decisions. Subsequently, Cao Wenbin paid a surprise visit to the Ren family's Qingyue Workshop.
Shen Cuixi greeted him and, noticing his admiration for a "Joyful Auspiciousness" painting, had the shopkeeper wrap it as a gift for him. Cao Wenbin then revealed news from the weaving office about an upcoming weaving competition in Suzhou, where the winner would be appointed as the new head weaver. Although there was no official document, the rumor was credible.
Cao Wenbin warned Shen Cuixi not to lose this prestigious position, which the Ren family had held for three generations, emphasizing that doing so would make her a "sinner" to the family. Shen Cuixi vowed to give her utmost effort. In preparation for the competition, Qiao'er painstakingly completed a "Myriad Years of Good Fortune" design.
However, Shen Cuixi, known for her strictness and good intentions, found the warp and weft lines uneven and the colors inconsistent, instructing Qiao'er to re-weave it. Qiao'er, unaware of Shen Cuixi's underlying care, complained about the task. Knowing that Ding Rong, Qiao'er's future husband, would also participate in the upcoming competition, Shen Cuixi secretly arranged for Shu Fang to allow Qiao'er to meet him during the event, pretending to be ignorant of their rendezvous.
She strictly cautioned Shu Fang not to let Qiao'er know this was her idea, fearing Qiao'er might become spoiled. Zeng Baoqin, through Ren Rufeng, opened a "Qingyue Small Workshop" and planned to enter the competition using Song paintings as her unique approach. On the day of the competition, Shu Fang secretly released Qiao'er, who was overjoyed to see Ding Rong.
Qiao'er excitedly held his hand, but Ding Rong, acting as a gentleman, was uncomfortable with such public displays before their marriage. After a brief interaction, Shu Fang, mindful of time constraints and potential issues, pulled Qiao'er away. The arrival of Ren Rufeng and Zeng Baoqin together, representing the "Qingyue Small Workshop," surprised many and made it clear to Shen Cuixi that Zeng Baoqin was using Ren Rufeng to compete against her.
Cao Wenbin and Li Zhao observed the internal family strife, noting that there would be a good show. Several clan elders angrily called Ren Rufeng aside and reprimanded him, stating that the Ren family could not allow itself to be a laughingstock for all of Suzhou, even if Zeng Baoqin was Ren Xuetang's concubine and the biological mother of Ren Xiushan. As the competition officially began, both Shen Cuixi and Zeng Baoqin sat down to weave.
During the task, Zeng Baoqin's thoughts drifted to memories of the past. She recalled the Ren family's old madam, who deeply disliked her and favored Shen Cuixi. Zeng Baoqin remembered laboring for an entire year to weave a dress for the old madam, only for it to be rejected as unsuitable. The old madam then produced and wore a dress woven by Shen Cuixi right in front of Zeng Baoqin.
The old madam's clear preference for Shen Cuixi and her animosity towards Zeng Baoqin had been the biggest obstacle between Zeng Baoqin and Ren Xuetang. Now, with time passed and circumstances changed, both Zeng Baoqin and Shen Cuixi were older, and these once-vivid memories had become hazy with dust, making them less clear to Zeng Baoqin.
Episode 6 Recap
In a weaving competition, judges Cao Wenbin and Li Zhao evaluate the works from various workshops. Cao Wenbin initially praises Shen Cuixi's work. However, Li Zhao, emphasizing that the competition requires creations made entirely of "kèsī" (kesi silk tapestry), points out that many entries, including one featuring a "Prosperous Golden Pheasant Diagram" praised by Cao Wenbin, incorporated embroidery.
At this point, Zeng Baoqin presents her "Apricot Blossom Diagram," which Li Zhao verifies is made purely with "kèsī" using a unique and rare "qiangse" (resist dyeing) method. Li Zhao, already favoring Zeng Baoqin, commends her work for fully meeting the competition requirements and declares Zeng Baoqin's Qingyue Workshop the new Lead Weaver of Suzhou, granting it the authority to buy silk and hire artisans.
Shen Cuixi is surprised by Zeng Baoqin's mastery of pure "kèsī", recalling that when she and Ren Xuetang had previously inquired with the Old Madam about using only "kèsī", the Old Madam had claimed no such technique existed. As the newly appointed Lead Weaver, Zeng Baoqin summons Shen Cuixi for a meeting by the river. Despite the advice from Shu Fang and Qiao'er against it, Shen Cuixi, as a weaver, understands she has no grounds to refuse.
At the riverside, Zeng Baoqin holds a letter Ren Xuetang left for her, deeply reminiscing about their past. She recalls how Ren Xuetang, even after she became a courtesan, showed her kindness and brought her back to Suzhou. She remembers initially feeling unworthy, no longer a lady but a "lowly courtesan," but Ren Xuetang stopped her, affirming they grew up together as soulmates and she was the wife he had always wanted to marry.
Moved, Zeng Baoqin agreed to return with him. During their meeting, Zeng Baoqin directly tells Shen Cuixi that while the Old Madam admired Shen Cuixi, she ultimately knew Shen Cuixi was not Ren Xuetang's true love and feared she might harm the Ren family. Therefore, the Old Madam had withheld the "qiangse" method from Shen Cuixi, teaching it to Ren Xuetang before her death, who then passed it on to Zeng Baoqin.
Zeng Baoqin mocks Shen Cuixi, claiming that despite being the First Madam of the Ren family, her life is harder, and advises Shen Cuixi to give up on Ren Xuetang. She further provokes Shen Cuixi by deliberately reading aloud from Ren Xuetang's farewell letter, reminding Shen Cuixi that she received no such letter.
Zeng Baoqin dismisses Shen Cuixi's control over the Ren family business, stating it means nothing if Ren Xuetang doesn't love her, and gloats that the Suzhou Lead Weaver title, held by the Ren family for three generations, has now been lost under Shen Cuixi's watch. She challenges Shen Cuixi to explain this to the family elders and demands that Shen Cuixi personally return Ren Xiushan to her. The confrontation enrages Shen Cuixi to the point of hallucination, blurring her vision.
Concurrently, the Ren family elders convene, demanding Shen Cuixi relinquish her position as head of the family to Ren Rufeng and move to a small courtyard to account for the loss of the Lead Weaver title. Shen Cuixi requests a few days from Seventh Uncle to arrange her affairs and people, promising to provide a full explanation. Soon after, she hands the family head token to Ren Rufeng, instructing Shu Fang to remain with him.
She also prepares to move into the small courtyard, giving her "Wan Nian Ru Yi Diagram" to Qiao'er as a dowry for her upcoming marriage to Ding Rong, lamenting that she can no longer give Qiao'er the grand wedding she had envisioned. A long-serving servant, Aunt Fu, insists that Shen Cuixi take her daughter, Xiao Lan, to the courtyard to care for her; Shen Cuixi initially resists but eventually agrees.
Shen Cuixi is then confined to the small courtyard, with only a small opening for meals. Meanwhile, fearing Li Zhao, Ren Rufeng complies with the Weaving Bureau's demand that all weaving households surrender their looms, nearly emptying the Ren family's Qingyue Workshop. Seventh Uncle scolds Ren Rufeng for mismanaging the family, but Ren Rufeng ignores him. On the day Qingyue Workshop officially opens, Qiao'er marries into the Ding family, but few guests attend her wedding.
Mrs. Ding, Qiao'er's future mother-in-law, would undoubtedly have opposed the marriage if she knew Shen Cuixi had offended Li Zhao. Confined to the small courtyard, Shen Cuixi tirelessly weaves "kèsī" day and night, often neglecting to eat or drink until persuaded by her attendant, Xiao Lan. The meals delivered to her become increasingly simple and meager, often lacking meat.
However, Shen Cuixi remains indifferent to her own hardship, caring only that Ren Xiushan receives sufficient and nourishing food, as he is still growing. One day, Li Zhao and Zeng Baoqin arrive at the Ren family residence, intending to take Ren Xiushan as an apprentice. Shu Fang intervenes, pulling Ren Rufeng aside.
She reminds him of his familial affection for his brother and sister-in-law, advising him not to allow Ren Xiushan to be taken and providing him with a strategy to handle Li Zhao and Zeng Baoqin. Following her advice, Ren Rufeng tells Li Zhao and Zeng Baoqin that Shen Cuixi treasures Ren Xiushan so much that she would not even bring the child out. Zeng Baoqin questions his meaning.
Episode 7 Recap
After Zeng Baoqin requested Ren Rufeng to send for Ren Xiushan, Ren Rufeng used Xiushan’s young age as an excuse not to bring the child out. At this moment, Shu Fang arranged for several boxes of Ren family collections to be brought in. Ren Rufeng explained these were Shen Cuixi’s apprentice gifts for Li Zhao on Xiushan’s behalf, promising a personal thank-you once Xiushan was older.
Zeng Baoqin accused Ren Rufeng of bribing Li Zhao, but Li Zhao’s eyes gleamed at the sight of the collections. He then advised Zeng Baoqin that scholars adhere to etiquette, and they should wait for the child to grow, at which point he would ensure the child was brought to her. Ren Rufeng immediately thanked Li Zhao, and Li Zhao no longer insisted on taking Ren Xiushan.
Shu Fang later thanked Ren Rufeng, noting that if Xiushan had been taken, Ren Rufeng could have rightfully become the family head, making Shen Cuixi's life difficult. Ren Rufeng, however, stated he didn't want the Ren family ruined by him and genuinely wished for Xiushan to be the head. Zhang Biao subsequently returned to Suzhou and sought Ren Rufeng for a business collaboration. Ren Rufeng, surprised and confused, questioned why Zhang Biao targeted the Ren family among so many weavers.
Zhang Biao cursed Shen Cuixi for managing the general ledger and threatened Ren Rufeng over their previous business dealings, giving him two days to consider. Meanwhile, Shu Fang, reviewing the general ledger, discovered a suspicious drop in silk prices. She analyzed this as a deliberate attempt to suppress prices and create trouble for the general ledger office, prompting her to investigate the source of this batch of silk.
Feeling guilty and panicked, Ren Rufeng rushed to the dock overnight to confront Zhang Biao about where the bought silk was being sold. Just then, prefectural authorities appeared. Zhang Biao, realizing Ren Rufeng had betrayed him again, hastily fled, while Ren Rufeng was caught and arrested by the prefect. Upon learning of Ren Rufeng’s arrest, Zeng Baoqin grew concerned, as he was the head of Qingyue Workshop, which would cease to exist without him.
She decided to go to the Weaving Bureau to plead for him but found that Li Zhao was deliberately avoiding her. Later, she coincidentally spotted Li Zhao at Ding Rong’s shop and discovered that Li Zhao intended to appoint Ding Rong as the new Lead Weaver of Suzhou. Li Zhao admitted that supporting Ren Rufeng had merely been a temporary measure.
He explained that despite any conflicts between Ren Rufeng and Shen Cuixi, they were still Ren family members, and he needed his own confidant in Suzhou, with Ding Rong being an excellent choice. Li Zhao also reiterated that Zeng Baoqin, as a woman publicly operating a weaving workshop, was unseemly.
With Ren Xuetang missing, Li Zhao advised Zeng Baoqin that if she wished to remain, she should stay peacefully on Shantang Street, but if she had unresolved worldly attachments, she should consider her path forward. Meanwhile, Shen Cuixi, who resided in a small courtyard, left through a hidden door by the canal and went to the prison to visit Ren Rufeng. She scolded him for not learning his lesson and continuing to associate with Zhang Biao.
Ren Rufeng was dismissive, confidently believing Li Zhao would save him. Shen Cuixi scoffed at his naivete, explaining that Li Zhao had deliberately given him the arduous and unrewarding task of purchasing silk and recruiting artisans to undermine Suzhou’s weaving industry. If successful, Suzhou's weaving industry would become autocratic, disregarding the lives of other merchants, and the Ren family was being used as a test case, with Li Zhao holding no real regard for Ren Rufeng himself.
Shen Cuixi also revealed Ren Xuetang's true mission: his disappearance was not for business, but to find Zhang Biao, to prevent Ren Rufeng from being implicated, and to apprehend Zhang Biao before the authorities did. The message Ren Xuetang sent back via Shu Yan was that "officials" were targeting the Ren family, though it was unclear if it was the Weaving Bureau or the Prefect’s office.
Shen Cuixi emphasized that Ren Xuetang's current disappearance and Zhang Biao's audacious reappearance in Suzhou were no mere coincidence. Ren Rufeng was filled with guilt. Shen Cuixi, knowing Ren Xuetang would try to save his only brother, promised to save him too, earnestly urging Ren Rufeng to change his ways from then on. Ren Rufeng genuinely admitted his mistakes and vowed to reform.
An elderly female relative, anxious to save Ren Rufeng, sought out Seven Uncle to open the main gate to Shen Cuixi's small courtyard. They coincidentally caught Shen Cuixi returning through the canal-side door. Seven Uncle was furious, but Shen Cuixi quickly explained that her actions were solely for the benefit of Ren Rufeng and the Ren family. She stated that while Prefect Cao Wenbin had indeed caught Ren Rufeng, there was no substantial evidence.
Her plan was to curry favor with Cao Wenbin, hoping he would show leniency. She feared that this incident was a power struggle between the Weaving Bureau and the Prefect, innocent Ren family caught in the crossfire, making the Lead Weaver position untenable. Seven Uncle, after asking if Shen Cuixi was confident, agreed to follow her plan. To save Ren Rufeng, Shen Cuixi took the Ren family’s ancestral "Double Lion Rolling Embroidered Ball Song Brocade" to plead with Cao Wenbin.
Cao Wenbin was heavily in debt, with creditors pressing him, so he had surrendered all valuable jewelry from his concubines. When he went to meet his creditors, he found Shen Cuixi waiting instead. His previously obsequious demeanor instantly shifted to one of confidence. Shen Cuixi tore up all his previous IOU's in front of him and presented the valuable Song brocade. Cao Wenbin’s eyes lit up, and his expression immediately changed, as he agreed to handle Ren Rufeng’s matter.
However, despite accepting Shen Cuixi’s gifts, Cao Wenbin had his own agenda: he dispatched men to sea to capture Zhang Biao, intending to use Zhang Biao to control Ren Rufeng, and subsequently Shen Cuixi. After being released, Ren Rufeng returned to the Ren family. He learned that Shen Cuixi had sacrificed the ancestral Song brocade to save him, filling him with immense guilt.
He vowed to be utterly devoted to Shen Cuixi and immediately returned the family head token to her. Shen Cuixi accepted the token directly, stating she did not need his absolute devotion, but rather that he find Ma Yuan’s "Water Map" from the Southern Song Dynasty when he had time. Ren Xuetang had been frantically searching for this very map, as it featured the "dissimilar double-sided tapestry" technique in its mounting.
This highly precious technique had been lost for three dynasties (Yuan, Ming, and Qing). Shen Cuixi stressed that a skill was far more valuable than wealth, and if the Ren family could restore this technique, their future generations would benefit endlessly. The map had once been a treasure of the Zeng family but had gone missing after their house was raided.
Ren Rufeng intended to ask Zeng Baoqin about its whereabouts, but Shen Cuixi warned him to be cautious, emphasizing that this "dissimilar double-sided tapestry" technique represented the Ren family's only chance for a resurgence.
Episode 8 Recap
Ren Rufeng visited Zeng Baoqin, learning from Shu Yan (or Ru Yi) that Zeng Baoqin had encountered difficulties with Li Zhao due to her attempts to save Ren Rufeng, leading to a period of estrangement between them. Ren Rufeng expressed his gratitude for her help and his guilt over the incident with Li Zhao, which Zeng Baoqin dismissed, mentioning that Li Zhao had at least agreed to a teacher-student relationship with Xiushan.
Zeng Baoqin was surprised to hear that Shen Cuixi had used the Ren family's ancestral Song brocade to save Ren Rufeng, realizing that he now owed Shen Cuixi a huge favor. Ren Rufeng then seized the opportunity to inquire if she knew the whereabouts of the "Twelve Water Paintings by Ma Yuan." He wanted to retrieve them to compensate for the ancestral Song brocade lost due to his actions and to restore the double-sided tapestry technique depicted in them.
Zeng Baoqin recalled that her family had sold the paintings to the Ji family in Taizhou (or Taixing) after their decline. She described Mr. Ji as a stubborn and cherished collector who had paid a high price for the paintings and would likely not part with them easily, regardless of the offer. Ren Rufeng, however, was determined to try.
He learned more about Mr. Ji, a respected elder in Taixing, who had a spoiled and rebellious son born late in life. This son, prone to gambling and accumulating massive debts, had secretly sold the paintings. Upon arrival in Taixing, Ren Rufeng found Mr. Ji whipping his son for selling the family heirloom. Ren Rufeng intervened, helping the Ji family son clear his gambling debts and redeem his various IOUs.
He then explained his purpose for wanting the paintings: to restore the lost double-sided, multicolored tapestry technique. Mr. Ji, initially reluctant but also a reasonable person who wished for the lost art to reappear, agreed to hand over the twelve paintings to Ren Rufeng. Upon Ren Rufeng's surprisingly swift return with the twelve paintings, Shen Cuixi and Chen Xiaohong were delighted.
Shen Cuixi, with Chen Xiaohong's help and the assistance of an "auntie," dedicated herself to repairing the loom and quickly delving into the mysteries of the double-sided tapestry technique. She emphasized that this vital undertaking could not involve outside artisans, trusting only family. Ren Rufeng was also reminded to properly assist Shen Cuixi. During this time, Shen Cuixi secluded herself in the embroidery room, and Ren Rufeng, conveying a message through his staff, temporarily could not manage Qingyue Workshop.
Zeng Baoqin, upon learning of the paintings' retrieval and Shen Cuixi's focus, realized she had been deceived and "set up" by Ren Rufeng and Shen Cuixi. Enraged, she confronted Shen Cuixi, accusing Ren Rufeng of breaking his promise to manage Qingyue Workshop and blaming Shen Cuixi for not letting her go, as well as for destroying her relationship with Ren Xuetang years ago.
Shen Cuixi calmly refuted the accusations, explaining that she had not betrayed Zeng Baoqin and Ren Xuetang to the Old Madam. Instead, the Old Madam, having discovered their elopement plans and learning of troubles befalling the Zeng family, intervened. The Old Madam reasoned that a marriage under such circumstances would force Ren Xuetang into an impossible dilemma: either save the Zeng family (thereby potentially ruining the Ren family) or abandon them (which would be unjust).
Shen Cuixi further explained that the Zeng parents, initially disdainful of Ren Xuetang as a merchant, later, out of calculation, changed their tune and even helped Zeng Baoqin pack for elopement. She challenged Zeng Baoqin to consider the consequences if their elopement had succeeded and Zeng father had been imprisoned, asking how Ren Xuetang could have faced the Ren ancestors if he sacrificed his family, or how he could have lived with Zeng Baoqin if he didn't help her family.
Stunned by these revelations, Zeng Baoqin stumbled out. Zeng Baoqin ran to the river, fabricating a lost earring to dismiss Ru Yi, then, despairing, began walking into the water to commit suicide. Shen Cuixi arrived just in time, pulling her ashore. She reminded Zeng Baoqin of her child, Xiushan, and revealed that Ren Xuetang's disappearance was a closely guarded secret.
Shen Cuixi also warned that Li Zhao's support for Qingyue Workshop might be a pretext to target the Ren family, potentially using Zeng Baoqin, and he might even be the mastermind behind Zhang Biao. She conveyed a message from Ren Xuetang, delivered via Shu Yan. Despite Zeng Baoqin's insistence that the official might not be Li Zhao, Shen Cuixi urged her to calm down, find the truth, and seek revenge for Ren Xuetang, advising her to take care of herself.
This realistic advice dissuaded Zeng Baoqin from her suicidal thoughts. As Shen Cuixi researched the "Twelve Water Paintings," she recalled her childhood fascination with tapestry-making and how the Old Madam personally taught her, leading to her eventually surpassing her teacher. Driven by a desire to revive the Ren family, Shen Cuixi worked tirelessly, day and night, to restore the double-sided, multicolored tapestry technique. Her perseverance paid off, and she successfully mastered the art.
Once the new brocades were launched, they were immediately snatched up by eager customers, filling the Ren family's Qingyue Workshop. With the Ren family's financial backing, Cao Wenbin successfully retained his position as prefect. The Ren family's Qingyue Workshop generously donated thousands of taels of silver for public works, including building bridges, paving roads, and providing relief for orphans and widows.
Consequently, the Governor issued an instruction to honor the Ren family as local gentry for their benevolence, establishing a commemorative archway to immortalize their name for generations. Meanwhile, Wei Lianggong, a renowned scholar from Jiangnan who had become a "juren" at sixteen, traveled to Suzhou from Huzhou, having brought his birth mother's grave back home with Li Zhao's help.
During a memorial for his birth mother amidst falling snow, Li Zhao encouraged him to set aside his personal feelings and participate in the imperial examinations in the capital the following spring. Li Zhao suggested that achieving official rank could secure a noble title for his stepmother, Lady Wei. However, Wei Lianggong vehemently refused.
He hated his stepmother, believing her to be responsible for his birth mother's tragic fate, and stated he would never seek a noble title for the woman who caused his mother's death, implying he would rather seek one for his birth mother. He considered Li Zhao's insistence to be a form of torture.
Episode 9 Recap
Li Zhao acknowledged Wei Lianggong's exceptional talent, advising him against harboring resentment towards his stepmother over his birth mother's fate. Wei Lianggong, however, remained indifferent, determined to reject an official career and choosing instead to pursue death. One snowy day, he collapsed in the snow and was rescued by Zeng Baoqin and Ru Yi, who were passing by. Upon waking, Wei Lianggong, still lacking the will to live, was gently encouraged by Zeng Baoqin to embrace life.
She revealed her own difficult past, having been imprisoned, confined to an acting house, and separated from her own son, Ren Xiushan. She stressed that despite life's hardships, death was not the answer, and they should strive to live well. Wei Lianggong had also suffered from the cold, which had affected his lungs, prompting Zeng Baoqin to keep him to recover, during which time he developed strong feelings for her.
They discovered a shared bond in their similar experiences of hardship and pain, mutually encouraging each other to persevere. Zeng Baoqin also found renewed purpose, resolving to live well in the hope of one day reuniting with Xiushan. Zeng Baoqin, a master of Suzhou embroidery, earned her living through her exquisite craft. While many admired her skill, she also became the subject of gossip.
Wei Lianggong, overhearing these rumors, advised her not to let them bother her, though Zeng Baoqin, having made peace with her past, largely dismissed them. Wei Lianggong shared details of his own tragic history: his stepmother, Pan Shi, had sold his birth mother into a Suzhou acting house when he was eight. Years later, upon learning of his success in the imperial examination, his birth mother took her own life in the acting house.
Wei Lianggong expressed his bitterness towards his stepmother for causing his birth mother's death, finding it ironic that society still expected him to fulfill filial duties to her. Li Zhao, learning that Wei Lianggong was residing in Shangtang Street, frequently visiting an opera troupe to learn acting and living a carefree life, sent his subordinate, Liu Shiye, with money to sound out Wei Lianggong's intentions regarding an official career.
Wei Lianggong, who enjoyed singing and wished to avoid the "chains of fame and fortune," instructed Ru Yi to always tell Liu Shiye he was unavailable. Zeng Baoqin reflected on her own father's past as an official, who, despite his ambition to serve the state, was eventually convicted of corruption and embezzlement, bringing misfortune upon their family. Her father’s dying words, which Wei Lianggong recognized as those of Li Si, suggested deep regret for entering officialdom.
Zeng Baoqin sent a half-finished "Mandarin Ducks Playing in Water" painting to Shen Cuixi. This gesture, according to Zeng Baoqin, was a sarcastic challenge, questioning Shen Cuixi's life choices and suggesting that despite her superb embroidery skills, she couldn't "embroider" such a simple scene of marital happiness into her own life. The painting symbolized her complex feelings for Ren Xuetang, put away when she resented him, picked up when she longed for him.
Zeng Baoqin wanted to know if Shen Cuixi’s life was merely for domestic peace, enduring a lifetime with a man who perhaps didn't love her. Puzzled by the painting's meaning, Shen Cuixi went to Shangtang Street to seek clarification. Wei Lianggong subsequently became a tutor in the Ren family, teaching Ren Xiushan. He initially disliked Shen Cuixi and mistakenly believed she was harsh towards Xiushan, denying him food. However, after speaking with Shen Cuixi, he learned he had misunderstood.
Xiushan had been suffering from indigestion and fever, and the doctor had advised him to eat less. He also heard Shen Cuixi's sincere words to Shu Fang, realizing that Shen Cuixi was not a cruel and callous woman like his stepmother. City-wide rumors also circulated, accusing Shen Cuixi of neglecting Xiushan because he was not her biological son, forcing him to study day and night, and failing to care for him properly when he fell ill.
Shen Cuixi, undeterred by the gossip, resolved to nurture Xiushan if he called her "mother," regardless of how he or others perceived her actions, seeking peace in her conscience. Meanwhile, seven years had passed since Ren Xuetang's disappearance. Three family elders confronted Shen Cuixi in the ancestral hall, accusing her of clinging to power, seeking glory, and deceiving the world, concluding that Ren Xuetang must be dead.
Shen Cuixi angrily refuted their claims, asserting that Ren family's current standing was due to her efforts and accusing them of being overly aggressive. She steadfastly maintained that Ren Xuetang was still alive, as there was no body. Distressed, Shen Cuixi left the Ren family home and wandered aimlessly through the streets in the rain. Wei Lianggong appeared with an umbrella, thoughtfully shielding her. Realizing her unhappiness, he took her on a boat ride.
During their outing, they overheard women on a bridge maliciously gossiping about Shen Cuixi. Unable to tolerate the slander, Shen Cuixi publicly cursed the women, leaving them speechless. After her outburst, she laughed heartily, even discarding her umbrella and letting the rain soak her. With clearer skies, Shen Cuixi returned to the Ren family home and resumed her normal life. Later, Zeng Baoqin heard rumors again, suggesting Shen Cuixi was mistreating Xiushan, causing her great anxiety.
She immediately sought out Wei Lianggong for clarification. Wei Lianggong assured her that Shen Cuixi genuinely treated Xiushan as her own son, and any strictness came from a loving mother's heart, urging Zeng Baoqin not to believe the gossip. Zeng Baoqin noticed a distinct change in Wei Lianggong, who, upon entering the Ren residence, had initially shown disdain for Shen Cuixi but was now defending her.
Wei Lianggong stated that the kindness of birth parents and adoptive parents were equally significant. Angered by his words, Zeng Baoqin abruptly left, while Wei Lianggong, at a loss, silently followed her. This scene was witnessed by Ren Rufeng.
Episode 10 Recap
Ding Rong, accompanied by Qiao'er and their child, arrived at the Ren mansion to visit Shen Cuixi. Ren Rufeng unhappily blocked their entry at the gate. Shu Fang intervened, allowing them in and explaining to Ren Rufeng that Li Zhao was behind Ding Rong, and the Ren family could not afford to offend him.
Shu Fang further instructed Ren Rufeng to keep a close watch on Qingyue Workshop, which secretly pleased him as she would also be there the following day. Ding Rong's primary purpose for the visit was to inform the Ren family that their exquisite double-sided kesi brocade craftsmanship had become highly renowned, even reaching palace officials.
The Weaving Office had issued a strict order, obligating the Ren family to take responsibility for this year's commission and to present new styles of double-sided kesi brocade to the palace beforehand. During the visit, Shu Fang noticed Qiao'er was pregnant again and had lost her former energy as a maid. Shen Cuixi was surprised by the news.
Qiao'er had borne two daughters in just a few years of marriage, and her mother-in-law was pressing for a son, threatening that Ding Rong would take a concubine if Qiao'er did not conceive a boy. This prompted Shen Cuixi to reflect on her own childlessness after many years of marriage to Ren Xuetang.
While Ren Xuetang had never once complained, Shen Cuixi wondered if his enduring kindness stemmed from his innate gentlemanly character or if it was simply because his heart belonged solely to Zeng Baoqin. Shu Fang assured her that everyone in Suzhou knew Ren Xuetang to be a true gentleman.
Shen Cuixi recalled Zeng Baoqin's words (or being mocked by Zeng Baoqin for not knowing how to love her own man) and, aware that Ren Xuetang's heart lay with Zeng Baoqin, she took up scissors and destroyed an embroidery depicting mandarin ducks, seemingly together but emotionally distant, to avoid ridicule. Meanwhile, Wei Lianggong served as Ren Xiushan's tutor at the Ren mansion, proving to be an exceptional teacher. To coax Xiushan into eating, he would even sing opera.
Shen Cuixi observed his teaching methods and commended him. Xiushan, enjoying the singing, expressed a desire to learn opera, but Wei Lianggong gently refused, encouraging him instead to focus on his studies. Shen Cuixi praised Wei Lianggong for his firm but kind approach.
Wei Lianggong explained that while he himself, a solitary figure, was deeply devoted to opera, Xiushan was destined to be the future head of the Ren family, with family property to inherit, the livelihoods of many to manage, and a mother to honor. He reassured Shen Cuixi that Xiushan was a sensible and emotional child who would eventually understand her painstaking efforts, which brought her some comfort.
Shu Fang later mentioned to Shen Cuixi that people were discussing Wei Lianggong's immense talent and capability, feeling that his role as a teacher was beneath his potential. Shen Cuixi, however, was engrossed in reviewing ledgers and did not fully register Shu Fang's words. Despite Wei Lianggong's disinterest in pursuing scholarly examinations, Shen Cuixi, recognizing his brilliance, still arranged quiet rooms for him to prepare for the imperial exams.
Wei Lianggong politely declined, stating his lack of interest in such endeavors. Shen Cuixi expressed her understanding and did not press him further. Wei Lianggong noted that Shen Cuixi shared a similar character with Zeng Baoqin. Li Zhao sought out Zeng Baoqin at Shanting Street (or to play chess), and Wei Lianggong happened upon them. Li Zhao quickly departed upon Wei Lianggong's arrival.
Wei Lianggong cautioned Zeng Baoqin about Li Zhao's true nature, describing him as cold-hearted and fickle despite his moralistic discourse, and advised her to limit her interactions with him. Zeng Baoqin, who Wei Lianggong knew did not care about her reputation, explained her difficult circumstances, implying that interacting with Li Zhao was necessary, and stated that Wei Lianggong could not help her.
Separately, Chen Xiaohong, anxious for Ren Rufeng to marry and have children who could support Ren Xiushan in the future, obtained a list of eligible young women from Suzhou. Ren Rufeng, after a cursory glance, dismissed them all. He then specified his ideal bride: literate, capable of accounting, and skilled in business. Chen Xiaohong, at first frustrated by his demands, suddenly realized that Shu Fang perfectly fit all his criteria. Ren Rufeng's heart swelled with joy.
Seeing his implicit approval, Chen Xiaohong immediately sought out Shen Cuixi to propose the match. Shen Cuixi agreed to discuss it with Shu Fang first. When Shen Cuixi spoke with Shu Fang, Ren Rufeng and Chen Xiaohong secretly listened nearby. Shu Fang, however, firmly declared her disinterest in marriage. Shen Cuixi attributed this to the disheartening circumstances of Qiao'er's marriage.
When asked about Ren Rufeng, Shu Fang expressed deep disdain, citing his past visits to gambling dens and brothels, and emphatically stated that if she were forced to choose someone to marry, she would much prefer Wei Lianggong. Overhearing this, Ren Rufeng was utterly heartbroken. Confirming Shu Fang's affections for Wei Lianggong, Shen Cuixi approached Wei Lianggong with the intention of arranging a marriage for him.
Wei Lianggong gently but firmly refused, revealing that he already had a beloved, but that woman loved someone else. He explained that he deeply understood the bitter pain and suffering of unrequited love and did not wish to drag an innocent person into such a "pit of fire." He earnestly requested Shen Cuixi to never again bring up the subject of marriage to him. Shu Fang, who had been listening nearby, quietly shed tears of sadness upon hearing his words.
Wei Lianggong's heartfelt words resonated deeply with Shen Cuixi, stirring her own memories and pain. She herself had once loved Ren Xuetang, but his heart and eyes were always solely for Zeng Baoqin, completely overlooking Shen Cuixi's profound affection.
She had not wished to force the union, but the Old Madam of the Ren family had knelt and begged Shen Cuixi to marry Ren Xuetang, hoping to break his relationship with Zeng Baoqin and prevent the Ren family from falling into financial ruin by the Zeng family.
Unable to refuse, Shen Cuixi married him, only to find herself trapped for years in a cage of her own making, as Ren Xuetang consistently maintained a respectful distance from her, his legally wedded wife.
Episode 11 Recap
Shen Cuixi, feeling conflicted, returns to the Ren family ancestral hall, questioning her role as the mistress of the Ren family and the purpose of her life. Recalling the past, she remembers when Ren Xuetang was brought back after attempting to elope with Zeng Baoqin. She kneeled and begged him to marry her, and Ren Xuetang, a kind gentleman, reluctantly agreed, although his heart belonged to Zeng Baoqin. She had been promised to Ren Xuetang since she was nine.
Wei Lianggong, hearing that Shen Cuixi is ill, comes to inquire about her health, but Shu Fang curtly dismisses him. Ren Rufeng, seeing Wei Lianggong leaving and mistakenly assuming he was speaking with Shu Fang, becomes jealous and makes sarcastic remarks to Shu Fang. He then learns from a servant that Shu Fang and Wei Lianggong are not together, which secretly pleases him. Ren Xiushan presents Shen Cuixi with a small wooden figure, which pleases her.
She recognizes that Ren Xiushan could not have carved it himself and suspects Wei Lianggong is the true craftsman, recalling his words about already having someone in his heart. She mistakenly believes that he is in love with her and makes a hasty exit. During an inspection, Ding Rong claims that the Ren family's Caihuakujin brocade is of poor quality and demands that it be rewoven within a limited time.
The other three major weaving families in Suzhou quietly accept the demand, waiting to see how the weaving master and leader will respond. Ding Rong arrives at the Ren residence, but Shen Cuixi deliberately makes him wait outside. The other three shopkeepers act coldly towards him. Shen Cuixi tells them that she suspects Ding Rong is using the Ren family as a starting point to undermine all the weaving families in Suzhou.
Ding Rong enters and claims the brocade has technical flaws, suggesting she go to Suzhou and explain the double-sided Kesi weaving technique to the local artisans to improve their skills. Ren Rufeng and the shopkeepers laugh, recognizing this as an attempt to steal the Ren family's core skills. Ren Rufeng slaps Ding Rong, who angrily threatens that the technique is required by the weaving official and that Shen Cuixi must provide it.
Shen Cuixi, accusing Ding Rong of damaging Li Zhao's reputation, orders Ren Rufeng to throw him out. Shen Cuixi realizes that Li Zhao is targeting the Ren family. She unites the four major Suzhou weaving families and many other weavers to close their shops in protest. Zeng Baoqin, understanding the situation, also orders Ruyi to close the Qingyue Small Workshop. Cao Wenbin has already sent the memorial impeaching Li Zhao to the capital.
Li Zhao, enraged by Shen Cuixi's actions, orders Ding Rong to make Qiao'er kneel before Shen Cuixi to beg for forgiveness. Ding Rong pleads against it, as Qiao'er is pregnant, but Li Zhao insists. Ding Rong begs Qiao'er, who kneels outside the Ren residence. Shen Cuixi, feeling compassionate, rushes out to help her, but Qiao'er, physically weakened, collapses.
Wei Lianggong asks Shen Cuixi how she will reconcile her efforts to secure justice for the ten thousand weavers of Suzhou with her own future, a question she cannot answer. Qiao'er goes into premature labor but delivers a healthy baby. Shen Cuixi instructs Ding Rong to tell Li Zhao that the Suzhou shops will remain closed until he provides a written guarantee that he will not steal the weavers' techniques. This enrages Li Zhao.
His advisor suggests he provide the guarantee to appease the weavers and allow him to deal with Shen Cuixi later. Ding Rong delivers Li Zhao's written guarantee, which is met with jubilation by the merchants.
Episode 12 Recap
With firecrackers signaling their reopening, various weaving households, including Qingyue Workshop, resumed business. Wei Lianggong and Zeng Baoqin discussed Shen Cuixi, with Zeng Baoqin noting Wei Lianggong's visible concern for Shen Cuixi. Although merchants had secured guarantees, this development intensified Li Zhao's hatred for Shen Cuixi. Zeng Baoqin recalled Shen Cuixi mentioning that Ren Xuetang's incident might be connected to Li Zhao. Shen Cuixi herself had been investigating Li Zhao and the fluctuations in raw silk prices over the years.
She discovered that in the years immediately following Li Zhao's arrival in Suzhou, raw silk prices rose annually, even soaring to a 50% increase in the year Ren Xuetang had his incident. She suspected a connection between Li Zhao and these skyrocketing prices. It was also noted that when the four major Suzhou weaving families established the general account house a few years prior, raw silk prices had risen by less than 10%.
With Shen Cuixi now managing the general account house and keeping raw silk price increases to less than 10% this year, Li Zhao's deep-seated hatred for her was understandable, as this suppression of prices could potentially lead to his financial ruin if he was indeed tied to the previous dramatic increases. Zeng Baoqin herself had been investigating but had unfortunately not found concrete evidence, which she would otherwise take to the capital to report.
Meanwhile, the head shopkeepers brought up Shu Fang's marriage. That evening, Shen Cuixi discussed the matter with Shu Fang again, encouraging her to seriously consider Ren Rufeng, whom Shu Fang initially hadn't thought about. Chen Xiaohong expressed her anxieties to Shu Fang, fearing that Shen Cuixi, as the leader opposing Li Zhao, would be taken to the yamen and publicly beaten, which would ruin her reputation as a woman. Ren Rufeng overheard Chen Xiaohong's concerns.
Unbeknownst to anyone, he secretly resolved to help Shen Cuixi navigate this crisis by taking the beating in her place. The next day, he entrusted all his savings to Chen Xiaohong, like making final arrangements. Ren Rufeng then went to the prefectural office to see Cao Wenbin.
He presented the Ren family head's token, declaring himself the true head of the Ren family and claiming responsibility for instigating the Suzhou weaving families to close their businesses, emphasizing that craftsmanship was the foundation of artisans' livelihoods. Cao Wenbin reminded him that the leader, according to law, would receive forty large boards. Ren Rufeng, unafraid, confirmed his awareness and willingness to accept the punishment to protect Shen Cuixi.
Shen Cuixi, discovering her token missing, realized something had gone terribly wrong. Outside the prefectural office, Cao Wenbin ordered Ren Rufeng to be beaten. The beating was brutal, his trousers gradually soaking with red blood, and his skin was torn. Shu Fang rushed to the scene but was held back, forced to watch Ren Rufeng being beaten.
Even amidst the pain, Ren Rufeng urgently instructed Shu Fang to send people to guard the weaving office, fearing Li Zhao might still harm Shen Cuixi. Cao Wenbin later informed Shen Cuixi that Li Zhao had intended a "death trap" for her: either surrender the weaving techniques or incite the Suzhou weaving families to a desperate fight.
If they lost, the techniques would still be surrendered; if they won, she would be branded a leader inciting trouble, ruining her reputation as a woman and forcing her to hang herself. Cao Wenbin revealed that if Ren Rufeng had not brought the Ren family head's token, Shen Cuixi would have been the one stripped and publicly beaten in court.
Shen Cuixi herself had prepared for this fate, having already laid out white silk for suicide if she were forced to suffer such humiliation, but she had never expected Ren Rufeng to endure it for her. A severely injured Ren Rufeng was brought back to the Ren family, still delirious and calling out Shu Fang's name. Shu Fang volunteered to stay and care for him. Shen Cuixi later asked Shu Fang if she was willing to marry Ren Rufeng.
Shu Fang, having spent time caring for him, admitted that she had begun to like him. Shen Cuixi, not wanting to force Shu Fang into a marriage like her own, was pleased Shu Fang had genuinely developed feelings for him. Chen Xiaohong, seeing a marriage approaching, became excited and began checking the calendar for auspicious dates. Meanwhile, Shen Cuixi's people, whom she had stationed outside Li Zhao's residence for self-preservation, reported seeing Wei Lianggong enter the premises.
Wei Lianggong, putting aside his pride, sought an audience with Li Zhao to plead for Shen Cuixi's release, arguing that forcing artisans to surrender their livelihood was excessive. He stated his actions were for the sake of justice and a clear conscience. Li Zhao's demeanor immediately changed, but Wei Lianggong refused to back down, threatening Li Zhao with the influence of the Jiangnan literati and the power of his pen.
Recognizing Wei Lianggong's talent and also out of respect for his mentor, Xiushan, Li Zhao initially agreed to spare Shen Cuixi this time, reasoning that Ren Rufeng's beating had preserved the court's dignity and rules. Li Zhao's aide, Liu Shiye, was puzzled by Li Zhao abandoning his carefully laid trap. However, Li Zhao quickly devised another scheme.
Knowing that Wei Lianggong was staying at the Ren family as a tutor, eating and living under the same roof as Shen Cuixi, he decided to spread rumors about the widow and the single man, hoping that widespread gossip would shame Shen Cuixi into committing suicide. Upon Wei Lianggong's return, Shen Cuixi, having learned of his meeting with Li Zhao, questioned their relationship, wondering if Wei Lianggong was trustworthy.
Wei Lianggong openly explained that while they were from the same school, their temperaments and views were incompatible. He confirmed that Li Zhao had spared her this time due to his intervention. To thank Wei Lianggong for his significant help to the Ren family, Shen Cuixi decided to embroider a pouch for him. Separately, Shu Yan approached Ru Yi, expressing his sincere intentions.
He told her that Shen Cuixi had agreed to let him work as a clerk at Qingyue Workshop. He promised to work diligently to become a head shopkeeper within three years, after which he would establish his own business and formally propose marriage, much to Ru Yi's initial sadness about the wait. Zeng Baoqin, aware that Wei Lianggong had visited Li Zhao, advised him to leave the Ren family and return to Shangtang Street for Shen Cuixi's well-being. She feared that Li Zhao, given the ongoing "death match" between him and Shen Cuixi, would next resort to slandering Wei Lianggong and Shen Cuixi.
Episode 13 Recap
Shen Cuixi meticulously made a special sachet and personally delivered it to Wei Lianggong, reciprocating his efforts in teaching Ren Xiushan. Wei Lianggong cherished the sachet, recalling Zeng Baoqin's words of caution, and though he initially wished to wear it, he deemed it improper and put it away. For seven years, Shen Cuixi had known Ren Xuetang was gone, struggling with the societal norm that allowed men to remarry but compelled women to uphold chastity.
Ren Xuetang had left her heart dead, but Wei Lianggong had revived it, indicating her burgeoning feelings for him. Meanwhile, Li Zhao ordered Ding Rong to steal Shen Cuixi's personal clothes and place them in Wei Lianggong's room. Ding Rong expressed his outrage to Qiao'er, calling Li Zhao insane, but as Li Zhao was the Weaving Commissioner, Ding Rong dared not openly refuse, yet he also could not bring himself to carry out the deed.
He sought to delay the task. Ding Rong had previously overheard a conversation between Li Zhao and Master Liu, inadvertently discovering that Li Zhao's relentless feud with Shen Cuixi stemmed from his desire to inflate raw silk prices, which Shen Cuixi's head accountant consistently suppressed. Concerned about implicating his wife and child, Ding Rong arranged for Qiao'er to take their child back to the countryside. Chen Xiaohong was suffering from indigestion, requiring a light diet.
Out of care, Shu Fang brought her meat dishes, including braised pork or pork belly. Ren Rufeng, who was happily preoccupied with selecting a wedding date, anticipated this and rushed to stop Shu Fang, but he was too late, as Chen Xiaohong had already eaten most of the forbidden food. Ren Rufeng admonished Shu Fang, arguing that she was harming, not helping, Chen Xiaohong.
Ren Rufeng then pulled Shu Fang aside, not to scold her, but to discuss their wedding day. He confessed his desire for a stable life with her, presenting her with a calendar of auspicious dates for her to choose from. Shu Fang, feeling shy, initially feigned disagreement, asserting her ambition to become a head manager. Ren Rufeng assured her that marriage would not impede her career. Shu Fang eventually agreed that they would marry on the twentieth of next month.
Ren Rufeng was overjoyed, excitedly throwing away his crutch and hugging and spinning Ren Xiushan. Shen Cuixi, worried about Shu Fang's future, had already prepared a generous dowry for her. Ren Rufeng subsequently confided in Shen Cuixi that he had seen Wei Lianggong and Zeng Baoqin together in a restaurant. He cautioned Shen Cuixi to be wary of Wei Lianggong, stressing that the Ren family could not withstand any further turmoil.
Shu Fang, however, disagreed with Ren Rufeng, arguing that he must have been mistaken, as Wei Lianggong was Ren Xiushan's savior and respected teacher, treating him with evident care, a fact observed by all. Shen Cuixi, hearing this, grew troubled. Shu Fang later pulled Ren Rufeng aside, demanding to know why he was targeting Wei Lianggong. Ren Rufeng felt wronged and grew jealous, assuming Shu Fang still harbored feelings for Wei Lianggong.
He retorted that if she couldn't let go and Wei Lianggong was willing to marry her, he would immediately prepare her dowry. This infuriated Shu Fang, who angrily kicked over his crutch and ran off. After a night of deliberation, Shen Cuixi decided to go to Shantang Street to confront Zeng Baoqin.
Zeng Baoqin openly admitted to all of Shen Cuixi's accusations: she was Wei Lianggong's savior, the "sister" he constantly thought of, and she had orchestrated the entire scheme to get him into the Ren family.
Zeng Baoqin explained that while she understood Shen Cuixi's need for Ren Xiushan's presence to secure her position in the Ren family and thus would not be overly cruel to him, she also feared Shen Cuixi's excessive kindness might cause Ren Xiushan to forget his birth mother. Upon returning to the Ren family, Shen Cuixi sought out Wei Lianggong.
She brought up the time Ren Xiushan was kidnapped years ago and how Wei Lianggong had rescued him, becoming a great benefactor to the Ren household. However, Shen Cuixi now knew that Zeng Baoqin had engineered the kidnapping, using Ru Yi to carry it out, as a ploy to install Wei Lianggong in the Ren family. With Ren Xiushan now suffering from nightmares every night, Shen Cuixi asked Wei Lianggong if he regretted his part in Zeng Baoqin's deception.
Wei Lianggong, filled with shame, proposed to leave the Ren family. Before his departure, he requested that Shen Cuixi return the small wooden figure, claiming it was a gift he had originally intended for Zeng Baoqin. Heartbroken, Shen Cuixi instructed Shu Fang to retrieve the figure and then directly threw it onto the ground for Wei Lianggong.
Wei Lianggong then bid farewell to Ren Xiushan, telling him he could no longer look after him and that Ren Xiushan should grow closer to Shen Cuixi. He also cautioned Ren Xiushan not to let gossip create a rift between him and Shen Cuixi. Wei Lianggong used the excuse of preparing for the imperial examinations, and Ren Xiushan, unsuspecting, accepted it.
As Wei Lianggong packed his belongings, Shu Fang rushed to his room to try and persuade him to stay, but Wei Lianggong's decision was firm. He left behind the sachet Shen Cuixi had given him. Shu Fang attempted to chase after him but was restrained by Ren Rufeng. In the courtyard, Wei Lianggong bowed to Shen Cuixi in farewell. They exchanged a simple glance, but no words were spoken. Shen Cuixi returned his bow. Wei Lianggong stood, turned to leave, and though he hesitated for a moment, he ultimately did not turn back for a final look at Shen Cuixi.
Episode 14 Recap
Wei Lianggong proposed leaving the Ren family, his steps heavy with sorrow as he departed. Shu Fang and Ren Rufeng then had a heated argument. Shu Fang defended Wei Lianggong, stating he had never harmed the Ren family and had even saved Shen Cuixi. She directly blamed Ren Rufeng for the Ren family's current precarious and unstable situation, citing his cooperation with Zhang Biao as the cause for Ren Xuetang's disappearance.
Shu Fang also pointed out that Ren Rufeng’s desire to marry her was merely for his own peace of mind, a fact he had revealed while feverish. Shu Fang confessed that she had only agreed to marry him to remain in the Ren family to accompany Shen Cuixi and suggested that since neither of them truly desired the marriage, they should part ways amicably. After leaving the Ren family, Wei Lianggong did not return to Shuntang Street.
He first went to his mother's grave, then disappeared. Zeng Baoqin searched extensively and finally found him at the spot where they first met. He was extremely weak and unconscious in the heavy snow. Meanwhile, in the embroidery room, Shen Cuixi finished a "Mandarin Ducks Playing in Water" brocade, which Zeng Baoqin had mentioned, but then cut and destroyed it. She sternly warned Shu Fang never to mention Wei Lianggong's name to her again.
Disturbed by Shen Cuixi's gloom, Shu Fang secretly asked Shu Yan to inquire whether Wei Lianggong was on Shuntang Street, promising to help him plan his marriage to Ru Yi in return. Ren Rufeng overheard this conversation, deepening his misunderstanding of Shu Fang. Servants gossiped that Shu Fang's true affections lay with Wei Lianggong and that she and Ren Rufeng would not last. Ren Rufeng heard these comments but did not vent his frustration.
Li Zhao visited Shuntang Street, inquiring about Wei Lianggong's serious illness and bringing up the possibility of taking Ren Xiushan as a disciple. Zeng Baoqin cautiously responded and apologized to Li Zhao for Wei Lianggong's past inappropriate words and actions. Li Zhao, who had previously urged Wei Lianggong to take imperial exams to honor his stepmother, now understood that Wei Lianggong's character was unsuited for officialdom and decided not to force him further.
Zeng Baoqin promised that once Wei Lianggong recovered, he would introduce Ren Xiushan to Li Zhao as a master. Li Zhao, angered by Ding Rong's reappearance after his "immoral act," ordered him to guard the Ren family gate daily and report all of Shen Cuixi's movements. Ding Rong reluctantly complied. While ill, Wei Lianggong continued carving a small wooden figurine, intended as a birthday gift for Zeng Baoqin.
Zeng Baoqin was stunned when she saw it, realizing the figurine had Shen Cuixi's charm and likeness, with the hairpin clearly carved to resemble Shen Cuixi's. Wei Lianggong, observing her reaction and then looking closely at the figurine himself, suddenly realized that the person he truly loved and yearned for was Shen Cuixi. This sudden, intense realization caused him to spit blood and faint due to emotional distress and "internal agitation."
Zeng Baoqin regretted sending him to the Ren family, but Wei Lianggong expressed no regret in knowing Shen Cuixi, only confusion as to why his love had shifted from Zeng Baoqin to Shen Cuixi. Zeng Baoqin frantically called Ru Yi for a doctor. Doctors in Suzhou confirmed that Wei Lianggong's five internal organs were severely damaged, and he might not survive the winter.
Despite the bleak prognosis, Zeng Baoqin clung to a slim hope, believing his lingering attachments could provide a chance. Wei Lianggong himself had not told Zeng Baoqin about the severity of his condition or that he had coughed blood. Shen Cuixi learned of Shu Fang and Ren Rufeng's argument and advised Shu Fang to apologize. Shu Fang found Ren Rufeng and apologized.
Ren Rufeng, still struggling with his own internal conflicts and realizing Shu Fang's points were valid, initially did not accept the apology. Shu Fang began to cry sadly. Ren Rufeng, distressed by her tears, returned to comfort her with a handkerchief, and they reconciled. Zeng Baoqin then knelt at the Ren family gate, causing a stir among onlookers, seeking an audience with Shen Cuixi. Shen Cuixi sent Shu Fang to inquire about her purpose.
Zeng Baoqin claimed Wei Lianggong was sick and desperately wished to see Shen Cuixi. Shu Fang allowed her into the Ren residence but warned that upon entering, she would be considered a concubine and must obey all orders, including remaining kneeling if commanded by the mistress. For Wei Lianggong's sake, Zeng Baoqin endured the humiliation and knelt outside Shen Cuixi's door.
Shen Cuixi ultimately agreed to meet Zeng Baoqin, not at Shuntang, but at a small cliffside in the suburbs, on a mountain. Shen Cuixi expressed disbelief that Wei Lianggong was truly ill and challenged Zeng Baoqin to jump into the cold lake below as proof of her sincerity. Zeng Baoqin was about to jump but was stopped by Shen Cuixi.
Zeng Baoqin then admitted that Wei Lianggong had not explicitly asked to see Shen Cuixi, as he was aware of Shen Cuixi's difficulties and did not wish to trouble her. However, Zeng Baoqin asserted that Wei Lianggong's heart undeniably belonged to Shen Cuixi, as evident from the small wooden figurine he had carved for her birthday. Zeng Baoqin showed Shen Cuixi the figurine, pointing out the distinct hairpin carved on it, which unmistakably represented Shen Cuixi.
Zeng Baoqin reiterated that doctors predicted Wei Lianggong might not survive the winter and desperately pleaded with Shen Cuixi to visit him, believing that even a single glance could ignite his will to live.
Episode 15 Recap
Zeng Baoqin tearfully begged Shen Cuixi to go see Wei Lianggong, even offering to write a document stating she and Wei Lianggong were having a secret affair and Shen Cuixi was merely there to catch them. They were in front of a cold pool, a place where the Ren clan would drown adulterers, and Shen Cuixi revealed this was why she brought Zeng Baoqin there.
Shen Cuixi had already softened, having considered that this might be a trap set by Zeng Baoqin, her destiny. She resolved that even if her reputation was ruined or she was drowned in the cold pool, as long as she knew Wei Lianggong cared for her and wanted to see her, she would have no regrets and accept it. Shen Cuixi then went with Zeng Baoqin to Shantang Street to see Wei Lianggong.
Upon seeing her, Wei Lianggong was very moved and thought it was a dream. He knew his body might not survive the winter, but Shen Cuixi didn't care, wishing to share a dream with him for a lifetime, even if it was just a dream. After the meeting, before leaving Shantang Street, Shen Cuixi thanked Zeng Baoqin, who stated she acted for Wei Lianggong's sake. Shen Cuixi then spoke with Zeng Baoqin, wanting to understand Wei Lianggong's past.
Zeng Baoqin recounted Wei Lianggong's tragic past: he was a late-born child, born to his father and a maid. On the day of his hundred-day banquet, his father died of a stroke. His stepmother, Pan Shi, publicly declared Wei Lianggong an inauspicious child. From birth, Wei Lianggong and his birth mother were confined in a small courtyard for six years.
The Wei family had a rule that all children aged six must be sent to the ancestral school, a rule Pan Shi could not obstruct. So, at six, Wei Lianggong finally left the courtyard to attend school and see the light of day. However, when he returned that night, his birth mother was nowhere to be found.
He later learned that immediately after he left for school, Pan Shi had tied up his birth mother, thrown her onto a boat, and sold her to a brothel. Wei Lianggong was naturally intelligent, studying at six, writing at nine, and achieving scholarly success at sixteen. In that same year, he stumbled upon his birth mother in a brothel.
He later gave up imperial examinations to prevent Pan Shi from receiving a noble title, and he had drifted for years to avoid facing her. His birth mother, upon learning of Wei Lianggong's scholarly success, tragically hanged herself, unwilling to bring shame to her son. Shen Cuixi now understood that Wei Lianggong had agreed to come to the Ren mansion because seeing Ren Xiushan reminded him of his own past.
Shen Cuixi and Zeng Baoqin confided in each other, reminiscing about being best friends in their youth. Zeng Baoqin reflected that she never imagined Shen Cuixi, as the lady of the house, would connect with Wei Lianggong, whose life was ruined by his own stepmother, also a lady of the house. She mused on whether women trapped in compounds, fighting for favor, were inherently wicked, or if society itself was too cruel to them.
Both women wished for each other to live well and did not want to continue fighting and tormenting each other. That night, Ding Rong couldn't sleep, contemplating whether to tell Li Zhao about seeing Shen Cuixi enter Zeng Baoqin's house earlier that day and not leaving by nightfall. He debated this, knowing that if he told Li Zhao, the Ren family would be ruined, but if he didn't, and Li Zhao found out independently, his own family would face ruin.
When Qiao'er discovered him trying to sneak out, he revealed what he saw. He admitted he knew Shen Cuixi and Wei Lianggong were innocent, but the consequences if Li Zhao knew were severe. Qiao'er, seeing he hadn't told anyone yet, begged him not to inform Li Zhao, declaring that their family would live and die together. Unable to bear her tears, Ding Rong agreed not to tell. That night, Zeng Baoqin saw Shen Cuixi and Wei Lianggong off.
However, this scene of Shen Cuixi and others bringing Wei Lianggong back to the Ren mansion was clearly witnessed by Liu Shiye, who had been guarding the entrance of Shantang Street. Li Zhao soon learned of the matter. The next day, he summoned Ding Rong and brutally beat him with a stick. In agonizing pain, Ding Rong was forced to obey Li Zhao's orders again.
Liu Shiye, who had personally witnessed Shen Cuixi bring Wei Lianggong back to the Ren mansion, didn't understand why Li Zhao wasn't raiding the house. Li Zhao explained his plan: if officials raided, it would appear as if the government was forcing the death of the Ren family's lady; it was better to let the Ren clan clean their own house.
Upon returning to the Ren mansion, Wei Lianggong immediately went to see Ren Xiushan, who was very happy to see him. Wei Lianggong joyfully embraced Xiushan, feeling much lighter from the happiness. Ren Rufeng was initially wary of Wei Lianggong's return, fearing he was back to steal Shu Fang, but relaxed after Wei Lianggong wished him and Shu Fang happiness.
Shen Cuixi took Wei Lianggong to her boudoir and later to the embroidery workshop, where she listened to him speak calmly and methodically about famous paintings. She was delighted and proactively measured him for new clothes. Wei Lianggong kept addressing her as "Grand Madam," but Shen Cuixi wanted him to call her by her name. She was surprised that her seemingly simple countryside name held an historical allusion when interpreted by Wei Lianggong.
Qiao'er later discovered Liu Shiye giving money to Ding Rong. She recalled how Ding Rong had initially feigned agreement to her plea not to help Li Zhao harm Shen Cuixi. However, Ding Rong, resentful after being beaten, went to Ren's Seventh Uncle to complain about Shen Cuixi and Wei Lianggong.
He then paid a storyteller to narrate a tale, initially about an embroidered sachet, but deliberately changed a name to implicitly spread rumors and slanderous gossip about Shen Cuixi and Wei Lianggong's scandalous affair. Although the name in the story was changed, everyone present understood it referred to Shen Cuixi and Wei Lianggong. Qiao'er, upon hearing the story, immediately realized Ding Rong had deliberately orchestrated its spread. Meanwhile, Wei Lianggong was staying in a small courtyard, and Shen Cuixi told him to come with her.
Episode 16 Recap
Wei Lianggong initially desired to reside in the side courtyard, which Shen Cuixi revealed was originally prepared for Zeng Baoqin, who had lived there for a period. Shen Cuixi then guided Wei Lianggong to a back door in a small courtyard that opened directly to the canal, where a small boat was perpetually ready for departure.
Wei Lianggong inquired if Shen Cuixi had ever contemplated using it to leave, but she remained silent and did not let him hold her hand. He expressed sadness and confusion, questioning why she would maintain such an exit if she had no intention of departing. Later, Wei Lianggong discovered that Shen Cuixi kept the door specifically for Zeng Baoqin's potential use, which brought him relief.
Li Zhao arrived at Shan Tang Street with medicine, ostensibly to visit Wei Lianggong, though he already knew Wei Lianggong was elsewhere. His true motive was to assess Zeng Baoqin's stance. Zeng Baoqin, realizing she could not conceal the truth, candidly stated that Wei Lianggong had returned to the Ren family. She initially claimed Xiushan had personally fetched him.
When Li Zhao doubted this due to Xiushan's young age, Zeng Baoqin clarified that Xiushan, upon hearing of Wei Lianggong's illness, had tearfully pleaded with Shen Cuixi to bring him back, and she (Zeng Baoqin) had also persuaded Wei Lianggong to return, considering the Ren family's resources. Li Zhao then broached the subject of the pervasive rumors circulating in Suzhou.
Zeng Baoqin countered by mentioning Wei Lianggong's history with his birth mother and principal mother (Pan Shi), asserting that while Wei Lianggong might potentially be interested in others, it was inconceivable he would be romantically involved with Shen Cuixi, the family matriarch. This firmly established Zeng Baoqin's position for Li Zhao, causing him to cease his probing.
Wei Lianggong confided in Shen Cuixi about his past, detailing his birth mother's tragic fate, his principal mother (Pan Shi), and his complex relationship with Li Zhao. He revealed that his initial prejudice against Shen Cuixi stemmed from his experiences with Zeng Baoqin, his birth mother, and Pan Shi. His birth mother had endured immense suffering under Pan Shi, being imprisoned, insulted, sold into a pleasure house, and ultimately driven to suicide.
He recounted knowing Li Zhao, his senior disciple, since he was seven, noting that Li Zhao had initially been very caring. However, after Li Zhao entered officialdom, he transformed into a cold, greedy individual solely focused on power. Li Zhao had even pressured Wei Lianggong to abandon his resentment towards his principal mother and write an insincere article praising both his principal and birth mothers, absurdly suggesting he had two good mothers and should memorialize them.
Wei Lianggong pondered whether acquiring power inevitably corrupted people. Shen Cuixi admitted her uncertainty but stated her constant struggle to control herself to avoid such a transformation. Wei Lianggong thanked Shen Cuixi for helping him understand that societal status itself is not inherently flawed, but rather the individuals wielding it.
He also acknowledged Pan Shi for inadvertently granting him and his birth mother six years of warmth and happiness in a small courtyard, despite Pan Shi indirectly causing his birth mother's death. Wei Lianggong disliked associating with Li Zhao due to his hypocrisy but, to Shen Cuixi's distress, ultimately sought Li Zhao's assistance on her behalf. Suzhou was rife with rumors about Shen Cuixi and Wei Lianggong, fueled by the Chief Accountant's suppression and stagnant silk prices.
These rumors alleged that Shen Cuixi, who managed the Ren family's business and oversaw the Suzhou Chief Accountant's office, was engaged in an affair with an outside teacher. Silk farmers (Sanghu) converged on the Ren family (specifically Qingyuefang) to demand answers. Ren Rufeng fiercely rebuffed and ridiculed them, warning against spreading unverified accusations and defending Shen Cuixi's integrity as baseless slander. Burdened by a secret, Qiao'er appeared at the Chief Accountant's office (or Qingyuefang) but hesitated and turned to leave.
Shu Fang pursued her, and after persistent persuasion, Qiao'er tearfully confessed that her husband, Ding Rong, was the mastermind behind the widespread rumors about Shen Cuixi and Wei Lianggong, using storytellers and storybooks to propagate the malicious tales. Qiao'er knelt and apologized to Ren Rufeng, who angrily condemned Ding Rong for becoming a "murderous blade." Ren Rufeng promptly dispatched men to apprehend the storytellers.
Qiao'er expressed fear that Shen Cuixi would not forgive Ding Rong, but Shu Fang reassured her, confident that Shen Cuixi's compassionate nature meant she would ultimately grant the undeserving Ding Rong a chance to live. Seventh Uncle and Fifth Uncle arrived at the Ren family to confront Wei Lianggong about the rampant rumors. Upon hearing of their presence, Shen Cuixi rushed to intervene.
The uncles expressed grave concern that Ren Xuetang, upon his return, would be deeply disturbed by the pervasive gossip throughout Suzhou. They insisted that Wei Lianggong's departure was the sole means to quell the incessant rumors. Meanwhile, Ding Rong cunningly deceived Qiao'er into revealing Shen Cuixi's room location.
He then secretly placed a pair of men's shoes in her room and discovered a man's garment on the bed, which he concealed, intending to frame Shen Cuixi and Wei Lianggong for an illicit affair. However, as he attempted to leave, he was caught red-handed by Shu Fang, Qiao'er, and Ren Rufeng. Ren Rufeng, along with Shu Fang and Qiao'er, apprehended Ding Rong and the storyteller, bringing them before the two uncles.
They exposed Ding Rong as the malicious fabricator behind the rumors. The storyteller confessed that Ding Rong had authored the storybook (including one about an embroidered pouch) and paid him to disseminate the false narratives. Accused by everyone of framing Shen Cuixi, destroying her reputation, and essentially "killing" her, Ding Rong furiously retorted by accusing Qiao'er of betrayal. He vehemently insisted that Shen Cuixi was not innocent and that she and Wei Lianggong were indeed involved in an improper relationship.
To counter this, Wei Lianggong swore an oath that if he had any private affair with Shen Cuixi, he would not survive past the spring. Qiao'er angrily slapped Ding Rong, simultaneously defending Shen Cuixi and vehemently declaring her intention to sever all marital ties with him. Ding Rong, heartbroken and desperate at her betrayal, retaliated by producing a garment he had hidden in his clothes.
He claimed to have found it in Shen Cuixi's room, asserting that Shen Cuixi, the Ren family matriarch renowned for her unparalleled needlework, had made it for Wei Lianggong, whom he derogatorily called an "outsider." Shu Fang, furious, cursed Ding Rong, calling him crazy and stating her pity was solely for Qiao'er. To protect Shen Cuixi, Shu Fang bravely stepped forward and claimed that she herself had made the garment for Wei Lianggong.
Qiao'er, emotionally overwhelmed with profound grief and regret over her marriage to Ding Rong, became distraught and began bleeding vaginally. Despite frantic efforts to call a doctor, Qiao'er tragically miscarried and passed away, losing both her own life and that of her unborn child. Before her death, when Shu Fang asked if she wished to see Ding Rong, Qiao'er firmly stated that she never wanted to see him, "this life, next life, forever."
Overwhelmed with remorse and despair, Ding Rong cradled Qiao'er's body and wept loudly. Ren Rufeng, who genuinely loved Shu Fang and intended to marry her, had prepared the fabric for her wedding dress. His mother (or aunt, Yi Nainai) advised him against holding the wedding during the prevailing controversy. Ren Rufeng agreed to delay the ceremony but still sought out Shu Fang in the side courtyard, presenting her with the wedding dress fabric.
He encouraged her to begin making the dress at her own pace, suggesting it could take three to five months, and assuring her they would marry once it was completed. Despite his earnestness, Shu Fang hesitated and ultimately informed him that their marriage should not continue.
Episode 17 Recap
Shu Fang refuses to continue her marriage with Ren Rufeng, speaking harshly and stating she doesn't want him to be mocked by others, especially since everyone in the household knows she made the wedding attire. Ren Rufeng, heartbroken, tries to persuade her but she refuses, throwing down the wedding attire/fabric before leaving. Shen Cuixi and Wei Lianggong overhear their conversation.
Shu Fang brings tea to them, then kneels before Shen Cuixi, confessing her true feelings for Ren Rufeng but reiterating her fear of him being mocked due to household gossip. Shen Cuixi blames herself for harming Shu Fang and wants to talk to Ren Rufeng, but Shu Fang refuses. Ren Rufeng, still wanting to do something for Shu Fang, later approaches Shen Cuixi, asking her to have Wei Lianggong give Shu Fang a proper status.
Shen Cuixi sternly tells him not to meddle in Shu Fang's affairs, as she is a strong-willed girl. Wei Lianggong seems unconcerned, believing their marriage is not urgent and might improve with time, as fate connects everyone. Wei Lianggong paints Shen Cuixi, remarking that he would have colored it before, but now understands simplicity is best. Wei Lianggong's body grows increasingly weak; Shu Fang brings him medicine and witnesses him coughing violently, even coughing up blood.
Wei Lianggong asks Shu Fang not to tell Shen Cuixi to avoid worrying her. Meanwhile, Ding Rong blames Qiao'er's death on Shen Cuixi and kneels at the entrance of the Weaving Bureau, begging Li Zhao for help and swearing to help Li Zhao deal with Shen Cuixi and destroy Qingyue Workshop. Ding Rong still doesn't acknowledge his own fault, claiming Shen Cuixi misled Qiao'er, otherwise Qiao'er wouldn't have died with two lives due to travel.
Li Zhao publicly refuses and orders Ding Rong to be driven out, but secretly instructs Liu Shiye to follow Ding Rong. Ding Rong, distraught, walks the streets and is coincidentally encountered by Ren Rufeng. Ren Rufeng, full of anger from being rejected by Shu Fang and attributing the disruption of his marriage to Ding Rong, violently beats Ding Rong to vent his frustration. Liu Shiye witnesses this.
Later, Zeng Baoqin plays chess with Li Zhao, noting that the street rumors about Shen Cuixi and Wei Lianggong are attributed to Li Zhao, who merely smiles without comment. She then deliberately brings up the imperial court sending people to investigate the accounts of grain transport and river works.
Zeng Baoqin uses her own and her family's tragic experiences – how the Zeng family fell, her father died, and her current difficult life – to warn Li Zhao that official careers are volatile and one cannot act freely, advising him to take some benefits and stop early to ensure safety. Li Zhao pretends ignorance but later reveals his mounting anxiety. Zeng Baoqin muses that an official career can truly transform a person.
She decides to find Shen Cuixi, worried Li Zhao will continue his misguided actions to Shen Cuixi's detriment, believing that if Li Zhao gets truly anxious, he will expose himself. Zeng Baoqin meets Shen Cuixi, acknowledging that Li Zhao's attempt to use Ding Rong to incriminate Shen Cuixi failed, but he won't give up.
She explains that the court gazettes she brought are a way to counter Li Zhao, revealing that Li Zhao, who took office without staff or funds, has caused great turmoil. Shen Cuixi thanks Zeng Baoqin for her dedication, and Zeng Baoqin states she is doing it for Wei Lianggong. Zeng Baoqin analyzes that Li Zhao, not originally greedy, is now so focused on accumulating wealth for a reason, with clues in the gazettes.
The gazettes record Li Zhao's misdeeds: misappropriating grain transport funds, manipulating raw silk prices, forcing weavers into bankruptcy, and then taking over their workshops for the Weaving Bureau. This intricate chain of events means any small error could lead to Li Zhao's demise. While the Weaving Bureau seems to lack real power, it is the Emperor's eyes and ears stationed in Jiangnan, with all petitions directly reaching the capital.
Grain transport payments have been increasing annually, causing immense suffering and widespread discontent in Jiangnan. Li Zhao increased these payments to fill deficits after Shen Cuixi, collaborating with several large weaving families, established a general accounting office that year to stabilize silk prices, leaving Li Zhao's raw silk unsold. This led Li Zhao to target Shen Cuixi, but the general accounting office not only survived, but Shen Cuixi also restored double-sided kesi to revive the Ren family.
Li Zhao could only increase payments to fill his deficits, explaining why he is now in disarray and becoming increasingly unscrupulous in his actions. Li Zhao has received a letter from the capital ordering him to make up for a large deficit within six months, a sum too large to easily fill. Zeng Baoqin deduces that Li Zhao's deficit must be growing, and clearing it through the grain transport yamen would expose his illicit activities.
This presents them with an opportunity to counterattack. Zeng Baoqin suggests writing an anonymous letter to the Ministry of Revenue, believing that exposing the grain transport issue would leave Li Zhao too preoccupied to bother Shen Cuixi and Wei Lianggong. Shen Cuixi considers this too risky and believes it would be more effective to report him when they have both the person and the evidence.
She proposes another method: since Li Zhao's raw silk will eventually have to be sold, exposing himself, and the Ministry of Revenue is due to audit deficits in a few months, they should arrange for the prefectural yamen to send patrols. She uses the excuse of having found Zhang Biao's whereabouts to persuade Cao Wenbin to deploy soldiers for patrolling, and Cao Wenbin, eager to catch Zhang Biao quickly, immediately agrees.
Seeking to fill his financial deficit, Li Zhao takes Ding Rong to his raw silk warehouse, claiming he found a suitable buyer to sell the silk to Nanyang and needs a contact person. Ding Rong is scared, knowing violating the ban on maritime trade is a death sentence. Li Zhao reminds Ding Rong that he is hated by everyone in Suzhou and has no other way out. Ding Rong agrees, pledging loyalty.
Li Zhao promises Ding Rong wealth and power if he handles this job well, even suggesting he could eventually control the Ren family, making Ding Rong more eager. Li Zhao decides to fully entrust this task to Ding Rong. That night, Ding Rong goes to the dock to trade with river bandits for the first time; the transaction is completed smoothly, though he is terrified. The next day, Liu Shiye verifies the money and accounts, and Li Zhao is satisfied. During the second transaction with river bandits, officials from the prefectural yamen come to patrol. Ding Rong quickly hides under some cloth and escapes capture, avoiding arrest.
Episode 18 Recap
Shen Cuixi's sudden tip-off to the prefect for arrests was due to Li Zhao's likely involvement in the illicit sale of raw silk to Nanyang pirates. Cao Wenbin, the prefect, was delighted, believing that if Li Zhao, whose Weaving Bureau had a long-standing conflict with Shen Cuixi, was indeed involved in such a crime, it would become a sensational case across Jiangnan, making Li Zhao expendable once solid evidence was obtained.
He immediately ordered increased patrols to gather incriminating evidence against Li Zhao. Li Zhao, in turn, was enraged to learn of Cao Wenbin's patrols. Although only minor figures were caught and not key individuals like Ding Rong and Liu Yong, he arranged for Ding Rong to return to the weaving industry and live discreetly to avoid suspicion.
Liu Shiye, Li Zhao's aide, reminded him that Cao Wenbin was backed by the Two Rivers Governor-General and advised Li Zhao to travel to Jiangning again to exert pressure and curb Cao Wenbin's persistent investigations. Li Zhao decided to depart for Jiangning the following day. Meanwhile, Wei Lianggong also prepared to travel to Jiangning, carrying the evidence he had collected. Shen Cuixi, excited by Li Zhao's departure, had already dispatched a messenger to Jiangning to gather evidence.
She anticipated that the Jiangning officials would soon learn of Li Zhao's incompetence, forcing his powerful patrons to reconsider their support for him. Amidst these political maneuverings, Shen Cuixi helped Wei Lianggong dress. He admired her sharp, genuine nature, finding it more beautiful and real than her usual restrained demeanor. He believed Shen Cuixi possessed a kind heart and that Li Zhao was overly oppressive. They conversed in the courtyard, where Shen Cuixi shared her life story.
She grew up fishing by the sea with her father. After her parents fell ill and passed away, her father left her a ring, a token from when he had saved the life of the Ren family master, instructing her to seek help from the Ren family. Upon arriving at the Ren mansion, she fortuitously met Zeng Baoqin at the gate, who then led her inside. They shared a special connection from their first encounter.
Shen Cuixi initially felt like an uncultured country girl, embarrassed by her lack of etiquette, music, and art compared to Ren Xuetang and Zeng Baoqin. However, after learning kesi tapestry weaving, she found profound peace and joy, feeling a sense of creation. After hearing her story, Wei Lianggong was moved to sing for her. Feeling stifled in the courtyard, Shen Cuixi took Wei Lianggong out for a boat ride.
Wei Lianggong confessed that he had previously been pessimistic and world-weary, burdened by the grief of his mother's death and a sense of responsibility for her early demise. Yet, encountering Shen Cuixi and Zeng Baoqin, and realizing that many people lived difficult but diligent lives, had shown him the world's beauty and inspired him to live fully.
He regretted not meeting Shen Cuixi sooner, but resolved to live well with her, wishing to see winter plum blossoms and spring flowers together. Displaying her kindness, Shen Cuixi bought all the melon seeds from a mother and child and even gave them her clothes, requesting Shu Fang not to reveal her name. Wei Lianggong praised Shen Cuixi's good deeds, noting that only she could manage the critical role of the general accountant.
Shen Cuixi explained that as Suzhou's foremost kesi weaver, she took on the role to stabilize silk prices, preventing severe fluctuations that could ruin mulberry farmers and weavers, even if it meant offending the Weaving Bureau. During their conversations, Wei Lianggong's cough worsened, and Shen Cuixi watched with deep sorrow as he coughed up blood. He comforted her, urging her to focus on the present and cherish their time together, acknowledging their brief moments were their most precious memories.
They spent these final, rare moments together, boating, fishing, and barbecuing fish amidst the gentle rain. As winter gave way to spring, Wei Lianggong survived the cold, but his body grew increasingly frail. Nevertheless, he expressed profound contentment at having Shen Cuixi by his side in the beautiful spring.
With peach blossoms blooming outside the walls and the canal water turning green, he anticipated a clear day and invited Shen Cuixi to walk with him, to visit the bridge underpass one last time to listen to local gossip, and to witness the world's beauty. Leaning on Shen Cuixi's shoulder, he fell silent and passed away. At that moment, the thread Shen Cuixi was using to embroider mandarin ducks suddenly broke, and she understood what it signified.
Her heart was pierced with sorrow, and her tears fell onto her "Mandarin Ducks Playing in Water" painting, which was nearing completion. News of Wei Lianggong's death reached Zeng Baoqin, who rushed to the Ren mansion and found him lifeless on the bed. She promised Shen Cuixi she would ensure Wei Lianggong's final journey was handled properly.
Shen Cuixi, as the head of the Ren family, concealed her overwhelming grief, unable to cry out freely like Zeng Baoqin, and refrained from eating or drinking, causing Shu Fang great concern. On the day of Wei Lianggong's funeral, Shen Cuixi donned white mourning clothes and intended to attend. However, she was delayed by Cao Wenbin, who brought up Li Zhao's trip to Jiangning, implying potential trouble.
Shen Cuixi understood his intent and assured him that the Ren family would provide full support if needed. Cao Wenbin then mentioned his daughter's upcoming wedding in a few days and requested Shen Cuixi, whose kesi embroidery was unparalleled, to select some fine fabrics from his back courtyard. Shen Cuixi reluctantly agreed, mentally preoccupied, and was led by Cao Furen to her daughter Yao Niang's room.
Yao Niang, born the year Cao Wenbin passed the imperial examinations, had never left her bed. Yao Niang took a liking to Shen Cuixi and invited her to sit on her precious small bed, a privilege rarely granted to others. After leaving the Cao household, Shen Cuixi immediately changed into mourning clothes in her carriage while rushing to the memorial tent. She arrived just in time to pay her respects to Wei Lianggong.
After she burned incense, Zeng Baoqin signaled for the coffin, which had been placed on a boat, to be carried away. Separately, Shu Mo observed Ren Rufeng's deep affection for Shu Fang. He suggested stopping Shu Fang from entering Wei Lianggong's courtyard. However, Ren Rufeng knew that Shu Fang was determined and Wei Lianggong was unwell, and that preventing her would only earn him her hatred.
Episode 19 Recap
After Wei Lianggong's death, Shen Cuixi decided to guard him, even burning her own embroidered mandarin ducks, which Zeng Baoqin acknowledged were superior to her own work. Having lost the will to live, Shen Cuixi was consoled by Zeng Baoqin, who urged her to be strong, to live well, and to do what she wanted, reminding her of her journey from a fisherwoman to the head of the Ren family and a remarkable woman in Suzhou's weaving industry.
Months later, Qingyue Workshop opened a new branch. Its interest income increased by several tenths compared to previous years, prompting Shen Cuixi, pleased with the success, to order an additional tenth added to the gifts sent to the yamen. Rumors circulated that Ren Rufeng was deeply devoted to Shu Fang. Her brother, burdened by gambling debts, came to the Ren family with his wife to demand Shu Fang marry Ren Rufeng to clear his debts.
Shu Fang, already reluctant to marry Ren Rufeng to spare him ridicule, firmly refused to marry him for her brother's sake. Enraged by her defiance, her brother pushed her down and slapped her, causing her cheek to hit a nearby stone. He then left. Shen Cuixi, heartbroken, applied medicine to Shu Fang, stating she would have taken her brother to the yamen if Shu Fang hadn't forbidden it. Ren Rufeng, hearing of Shu Fang's injury, rushed to care for her.
Later, Ren Rufeng, suspicious of the dilapidated state of Shu Fang's old home, waited at her brother's doorstep and overheard him planning to sell Shu Fang as a concubine to another man for 200 taels of silver. Enraged, Ren Rufeng violently beat up Shu Fang's brother.
He then intervened as they were about to sign the contract, forcing the brother to sign a document making Shu Fang a member of the Ren family, thereby preventing her family from ever threatening her again. Ren Rufeng instructed Shu Mo to keep the contract secret from Shu Fang. After returning from a business trip to Guangzhou, Ren Rufeng brought a gift for Shu Fang, but she refused to accept it, leaving him heartbroken.
Shen Cuixi made elaborate preparations for Miss Cao (also referred to as Yaoniang)'s engagement banquet, providing exquisite and precious Kesi silk fabric, including the famous double-sided Kesi, for Miss Cao's dowry. She also prepared gifts for Cao Wenbin, his wife, and their servants, demonstrating an unmatched generosity in Suzhou and a clear intent to curry favor with Cao Wenbin, the Suzhou Prefect. Cao Wenbin, pleased, displayed the Kesi silk for admiration and even suggested writing inscriptions for the Ren family.
Cao Furen also wore Shen Cuixi's double-sided Kesi to show off. Despite the Ren family and Qingyue Workshop spending a significant amount of silver on the engagement, Cao Wenbin's public endorsement dramatically boosted Qingyue Workshop's reputation. Following the banquet, a surge of customers arrived, increasing the main store's profit by 50% that month.
Qingyue Workshop's fame became the most prominent in all of Jiangnan, surpassing the four major weaving families, with even Manager Zhao admitting that no one dared to claim first place if the Ren family claimed second. Shen Cuixi was aware that Shu Yan liked Ru Yi, and she believed his reason for coming to Qingyue Workshop to learn to be a shopkeeper was likely for Ru Yi.
She inquired about their potential marriage and advised him not to give up if he truly loved her, emphasizing that any difficulties could be overcome if they faced them together. She expressed sentiment that as long as one is alive, no obstacle is insurmountable. With many customers specifically requesting Shen Cuixi's Kesi, she worked late into the night. Shu Fang, recognizing her effort, instructed Xiao Lan to care for her.
Shen Cuixi commissioned a scholar to restore Kesi (specifically, rare double-sided Kesi) and write her biography on a stele. Zeng Baoqin, reading about this, became concerned that Shen Cuixi's high profile would invite disaster. She warned Shen Cuixi that the Ren family were merely merchants and should maintain a low profile, especially with "hungry wolves" like Li Zhao and Cao Wenbin surrounding them, and Ren Xiushan still young, making the family vulnerable.
She advised Shen Cuixi to rein in her ambition and wait until Ren Xiushan achieved success in his studies before expanding the family business. Zeng Baoqin clarified that her warnings stemmed not from fear, but from her deep understanding of the world's harshness towards women, based on her own tragic past. She recalled being imprisoned with her mother, who, fearing a life worse than death or being sold, attempted to make Zeng Baoqin die.
Zeng Baoqin pleaded for her life, wanting to live to see Ren Xuetang, and tried to comfort her mother that they would both survive. However, the next morning, her mother had hanged herself. Later, Zeng Baoqin was sold to an entertainment quarter, where she remained obedient, waiting for Ren Xuetang, and was favored by her "mama," who promised to train her to become the courtesan empress.
Zeng Baoqin continued to urge Shen Cuixi to be a stable head of the household, live well, and avoid being too conspicuous, warning that such prominence would attract covetousness and harm both her and the Ren family. Despite these warnings, Shen Cuixi remained resolute, having her own plans, and promised to return everything Zeng Baoqin had lost.
Episode 20 Recap
Seeking to live life on her own terms, Shen Cuixi enters Ren Xuetang’s study, a place she had long avoided due to the sadness it evoked. There, she discovers a letter he left for her before he departed to investigate Zhang Biao. In the letter, Ren Xuetang claims to have severed emotional ties and expresses his hope that Shen Cuixi would treat Zeng Baoqin well.
Shen Cuixi, however, realizes his heart still belongs to Zeng Baoqin and believes the letter was meant to comfort her, but that he himself doesn't fully understand his feelings. Deciding to let go of the long-standing emotional entanglement, these matters become irrelevant to her. The next day, Shen Cuixi dispatches Shu Yan to bring Zeng Baoqin and Ru Yi to the Ren family, settling them in the West Courtyard.
Despite Ru Yi’s initial worries that Shen Cuixi intends to harm Zeng Baoqin, Shu Yan assures her there is no malice. Shen Cuixi admits that as the matriarch, she must act for the family's benefit, not merely her own desires, and invites Zeng Baoqin to enter the Ren family, not as an aunt, but as Miss Zeng, acknowledging her as Ren Xiushan’s biological mother and stating it's her responsibility.
Zeng Baoqin agrees, but proposes three conditions, all of which Shen Cuixi accepts. Zeng Baoqin, however, points out that the family genealogy lists Shen Cuixi as Xiushan’s mother and advises Shen Cuixi against acting arbitrarily for the sake of the family. She also states she won't stay in the Ren family forever and warns Shen Cuixi not to delegate all family affairs to her simply to seek peace, hoping Shen Cuixi will consider her decisions carefully.
With Zeng Baoqin now legitimately recognized, Ren Xiushan pays his respects to both Shen Cuixi and Zeng Baoqin, moving Zeng Baoqin to tears when he calls her "mother" for the first time. Shen Cuixi tells Xiushan that his mother is a talented woman, capable of helping him with his studies, even surpassing Mr. Feng. Shen Cuixi then begins to instruct Zeng Baoqin in the Ren family’s k'o-ssu (silk tapestry) traditions, starting with the methods used for New Year greetings.
Zeng Baoqin, though already skilled in k'o-ssu, initially wonders why, but Shen Cuixi explains that Zeng Baoqin’s previous skill was merely a pastime, whereas this is the family’s centuries-old heritage. Through this training, which includes production, personnel management, techniques, silkworm farming, raw silk fields, and weaving looms, Zeng Baoqin learns the difficulty behind every stitch and gains a deeper understanding of the entire business. Shen Cuixi affirms that Zeng Baoqin's future achievements will surpass her own.
She also compiles her years of experience managing the Ren family into written form, stressing the importance of Zeng Baoqin having a sense of purpose for the family's stability. Shen Cuixi also remains concerned about Ren Xiushan’s education, believing his studies are crucial for Zeng Baoqin and the family’s future prospects, as Xiushan will eventually manage the family business, and Zeng Baoqin needs to be able to assist him.
Elsewhere, Liu Ma observes Shu Fang’s brother, Lin Dahu, repeatedly seeking Shu Fang, only to be driven away by Ren Rufeng. Concerned about an urgent family matter, Liu Ma informs Shu Fang. Shu Fang interrogates Shu Mo, learning that Lin Dahu has sold her again, this time with a permanent contract. Fortunately, Ren Rufeng had bought the contract himself.
Accompanied by Shu Yan, Shu Fang confronts her brother, accusing him of selling her for 200 taels, despite her having given him all her savings over the years. Utterly disappointed in her brother and having been exploited by family before, Shu Fang vows not to be again. Aunt advises Ren Rufeng to coax Shu Fang and, when he resists, scolds him for being foolish and unable to get a wife, even asking his confidant, Shu Mo, about their relationship.
Ren Rufeng, learning of Shu Fang’s confrontation with Lin Dahu, rushes over worriedly, relieved to find her safe. Shu Fang discovers that Ren Rufeng had bought her contract. He is embarrassed, denying he did it out of pity and asserting his genuine love for her, feeling she was too good to be a concubine. Shu Fang, deeply moved to tears, finally accepts his proposal.
Their engagement is settled, and their wedding is put on the agenda, set for the end of the month, much to the happiness of Shen Cuixi, Aunt, and Chen Xiaohong. The couple shyly agrees to follow Shen Cuixi’s lead regarding the wedding arrangements. In her spare time, Shen Cuixi visits Qiao’er’s two daughters, playing shuttlecock with them, showing no ill will, which makes Ding Rong feel somewhat guilty.
Zeng Baoqin, while improving her k'o-ssu skills in the Ren residence, begins to feel confined to the embroidery workshop. She also notes Shen Cuixi providing her with business books, explaining that these are to help her assist Xiushan when he eventually manages the family business. Zeng Baoqin expresses concern that Shen Cuixi’s recent actions—confining her, fully teaching her skills and business management, and hastily marrying off Shu Fang—feel like preparations for her own end.
Shen Cuixi dismisses these speculations, reassuring Zeng Baoqin that she promised Wei Lianggong she would live well. As a heavy rain begins, Li Zhao returns to Suzhou from Jiangning. He informs Ding Rong that affairs in Jiangning are settled, preventing Cao Wenbin from causing him trouble anymore. Li Zhao instructs Ding Rong to expedite selling the raw silk inventory to the Jiangnan river bandits, and also mentions his intent to deal with Shen Cuixi once these matters are handled.
Meanwhile, Cao Wenbin warns Shen Cuixi that his retention fee needs to be double last time. Shen Cuixi advises Cao Wenbin to use this opportunity to expose Li Zhao’s vulnerabilities, eliminate the hidden danger, secure his official reputation, and then his retention could be easily resolved with less money. Cao Wenbin, frustrated, admits Li Zhao is cunning and he hasn't found any leverage for six months.
Shen Cuixi assures him she will secure credible evidence for him to act, ensuring a decisive blow. Ding Rong continues working for Li Zhao, selling raw silk from the warehouse to the bandits. After Cao Wenbin stops his patrols, the bandits increase their purchases, and Li Zhao, driven by greed, buys more raw silk from the Suzhou market for huge profits. Ding Rong cautiously changes transaction locations, meeting Zhang Biao at the dock to trade raw silk. Realizing the transfer will take time, they sit down for a drink.
Episode 21 Recap
Ding Rong got Zhang Biao drunk, leading to Zhang Biao's arrest by the prefect's yamen runners, who seized him after goods were loaded onto a boat. Simultaneously, Li Zhao's warehouse of privately stored raw silk was discovered. Cao Wenbin, the prefect, saw the raw silk and coveted it, planning to seize it after Li Zhao's downfall. He instructed his Master Liu to personally interrogate Zhang Biao to secure a confession and solid evidence, preventing Li Zhao's comeback.
At night, Ding Rong, masked, infiltrated Li Zhao's study and stole his account books detailing raw silk reselling. This was part of a pre-arranged plan with Shen Cuixi; Shen Cuixi, determined to bring down Li Zhao, had asked Ding Rong for help, promising to take sole responsibility for any fallout. Ding Rong, in turn, had asked Shen Cuixi to take in his two daughters. With both the account books and the raw silk warehouse, Li Zhao would be caught "red-handed."
The next day, Li Zhao discovered the account books missing and his long-time doorkeeper gone, realizing he had been framed. Suspecting Cao Wenbin was behind the account book theft, Li Zhao immediately ordered Master Liu to move the raw silk from Mudutown to prevent Cao Wenbin from getting leverage, ensuring that even with the books, without the raw silk, there would be no direct evidence. Shu Fang was preparing for marriage, which made Shen Cuixi very happy and relieved.
Shu Fang noticed Shen Cuixi's sense of relief. Shen Cuixi revealed to Shu Fang that Zhang Biao had been caught and Li Zhao's privately stored raw silk found, and they were awaiting Cao Wenbin's interrogation and report to the court. However, she emphasized that the most urgent matter was the wedding, telling Shu Fang to await good news. Master Liu went to the raw silk warehouse but found it sealed by the prefect.
The Nanyang pirate, Zhang Biao, had also been arrested. Realizing he was now truly caught "red-handed," Li Zhao decided to confront Cao Wenbin and offer money for his life. However, upon arriving at the prefect's office, Cao Wenbin refused to see him. As Li Zhao was leaving, he witnessed Cao Wenbin's officials welcoming Shen Cuixi's carriage, confirming that Cao Wenbin was intentionally avoiding him.
Cao Wenbin had summoned Shen Cuixi, proposing to split the raw silk: half was enough to convict Li Zhao, and he and Shen Cuixi would take the rest. Shen Cuixi was in a difficult position. Cao Wenbin claimed he had already written the impeachment memorial against Li Zhao and threatened to submit it only after Shen Cuixi agreed to move the raw silk. Shen Cuixi left angrily, feeling she had driven away one danger only to encounter another.
Although Shen Cuixi had decided to cooperate with Cao Wenbin in her determination to bring down Li Zhao, the raw silk was burned before she could act on that decision and meet him again. Determined to make the "stolen goods" vanish and thwart Cao Wenbin, Li Zhao formulated a plan and ordered Master Liu to burn all the raw silk in the warehouse. Meanwhile, Shen Cuixi visited Zeng Baoqin, revealing her true reason for coming: Li Zhao's return.
Shen Cuixi had intended to deal with Li Zhao herself, which led her to have Cao Wenbin investigate Li Zhao's warehouse, but Cao Wenbin had proven too greedy in the process. Zeng Baoqin warned Shen Cuixi that privatizing stolen goods was a serious crime, a capital offense if discovered. Before discussing Cao Wenbin's proposal, they talked about Ru Yi and Shu Yan.
Shu Yan wanted to see Ru Yi but dared not knock, so Shen Cuixi helped him, believing they loved each other and Zeng Baoqin would facilitate them. However, Zeng Baoqin believed lovers didn't necessarily need to marry, explaining that Ru Yi, having grown up in a courtesan's quarter, lacked proper etiquette. While Shu Yan liked Ru Yi's innocent nature, he feared inquiries into her background and used family opposition as an excuse to hesitate.
Zeng Baoqin intentionally didn't teach Ru Yi etiquette so she wouldn't humbly beg for pity. Shen Cuixi felt that since she and Zeng Baoqin had both lost loved ones, others should be helped to marry if possible, but as Ru Yi was Zeng Baoqin's person, Shen Cuixi didn't want to interfere too much. That night, Master Liu's men set fire to the raw silk warehouse. Cao Wenbin was heartbroken watching the silk turn to ash, surprised by Li Zhao's ruthlessness.
With so much raw silk burned, Zeng Baoqin worried Li Zhao would frame the Ren family and warned Shen Cuixi to guard against Cao Wenbin becoming desperate and blaming the Ren family. Cao Wenbin, left with no raw silk, had to interrogate Zhang Biao, hoping for useful information. Li Zhao then found Cao Wenbin and threatened to end his official career. Cao Wenbin's attitude immediately changed to flattery, and he begged Li Zhao for help.
Li Zhao, knowing Cao Wenbin had made a lot of money collaborating with the Ren family, suggested he undertake one more significant task to secure his retirement safely. This "big job" involved the Ren family's three-generation ancestral business. Li Zhao reminded Cao Wenbin that Zhang Biao, who had previously done business with Ren Rufeng, was still in custody. Thus, it would be easy to claim the esteemed Suzhou Ren family colluded with pirates and seize their family business.
Furthermore, Li Zhao, dissatisfied with Shen Cuixi constantly opposing him by relying on her weaving skills, instructed Cao Wenbin to force Shen Cuixi to hand over the double-sided Kesi technique and provided methods to achieve this. Cao Wenbin interrogated Zhang Biao, using Zhang Biao's parents' lives as a threat (which Li Zhao had secretly revealed as Zhang Biao's weakness) to make him confess and implicate Ren Rufeng. Shen Cuixi had an ominous premonition about the quiet aftermath of the burning.
Zeng Baoqin comforted her, saying they would face challenges as they come, having overcome many storms together. The most important thing now was to prepare for Ren Rufeng and Shu Fang's wedding to expand the Ren family line, and ideally, for Ren Xiushan to have a younger sibling.
Episode 22 Recap
The Ren family buzzed with preparations for the grand wedding of Ren Rufeng and Shu Fang. Their wedding boat circled Suzhou Lake multiple times, garnering widespread congratulations as everyone in Suzhou knew of their impending marriage. However, as the wedding procession returned to the Ren mansion, Prefect Cao Wenbin's officials intercepted them. They arrested Ren Rufeng, slandering him with a trumped-up charge of colluding with pirates to hire a killer to murder Ren Xuetang.
Shu Fang, still in her wedding attire, rushed back to the Ren mansion to deliver the devastating news to Shen Cuixi. Zeng Baoqin immediately suspected Cao Wenbin, noting the peculiar timing of the arrest despite wedding invitations having been sent three days prior to prominent Suzhou families. She believed it was a trap set specifically for Shen Cuixi.
Shen Cuixi decided to confront Cao Wenbin directly, but he refused to see her, making it clear he intended to distance himself from the Ren family. In prison, Ren Rufeng endured brutal torture as Cao Wenbin tried to force a confession, fabricating a shocking accusation that Ren Rufeng had committed incest with his sister-in-law, Shen Cuixi, and together they had murdered Ren Xuetang. Ren Rufeng vehemently refused to admit to such heinous crimes.
Shen Cuixi tirelessly sought help from other officials, but they all avoided her, reflecting the harsh reality that "when the tree falls, the monkeys scatter." Faced with mounting pressure, Shen Cuixi convened the managers of Qingyue Workshop, intending to liquidate the entire family business. Long-serving managers were reluctant, but Shen Cuixi promised that if the Ren family survived this calamity, they would be the first she invited back.
Meanwhile, Shu Fang, now the Second Mistress, began to assert herself, disciplining unruly servants and demonstrating a determined spirit. She also comforted her Aunt-grandmother, who, fearing Shu Fang would be implicated, suggested the marriage be called off. Shu Fang refused, expressing confidence in Shen Cuixi to resolve the crisis. Zeng Baoqin also attempted to help, trying to bribe jailers (unsuccessfully, due to the serious nature of the charges) and gathering information from courtesans who had connections with officials.
Li Zhao, upon learning that Ren Rufeng was accused of murdering Ren Xuetang through a conspiracy with Shen Cuixi, confronted Cao Wenbin. He worried that forcing Shen Cuixi to public trial would humiliate her to the point of suicide, thus preventing him from obtaining the Ren family's double-sided Kesi secret techniques. Cao Wenbin, however, believed Shen Cuixi would not easily take her own life, as the Ren family would never push her to such an extreme.
Still concerned, Li Zhao dispatched Ding Rong to relay an offer to Shen Cuixi: if she handed over the double-sided Kesi techniques, Li Zhao would ensure Ren Rufeng's survival and prevent Shen Cuixi from having to appear in court. Ding Rong delivered the message to Shen Cuixi, also informing her that she was implicated in Ren Rufeng's alleged murder case and would soon be summoned for trial.
Shen Cuixi, convinced of Ren Rufeng's innocence, replied through Ding Rong that she would deliver all twelve double-sided Kesi techniques if Ren Rufeng was released unharmed within three days. Ding Rong argued that sacrificing the family's secret skills was not worth it just to save Ren Rufeng, but Shen Cuixi maintained that no amount of wealth could compare to a human life.
Chen Xiaohong, overhearing this, was deeply moved by Shen Cuixi's "great righteousness," yet tearfully begged Shen Cuixi to abandon the Ren family, arguing she had no true relation to them or Ren Rufeng. Aunt-grandmother, touched by Shen Cuixi's resolve, later advised her to flee, having learned that Cao Wenbin's true target was Shen Cuixi and that a public trial would be a "death trap" for her.
Shen Cuixi, however, refused to leave, stating that having Ren Xiushan meant she was part of the Ren family and would not abandon them. That night, Zeng Baoqin, having learned of the "death trap," drugged Shen Cuixi's wine and arranged for Ru Yi to transport her away by boat under the cover of darkness. Chen Xiaohong and Shu Fang remained to deal with Cao Wenbin's clerk, Shao Shiye.
However, after the effects of the sedative wore off, Shen Cuixi awoke and forced the boatman to turn back to the Ren mansion (or, as another account states, she jumped into the lake and swam back). She appeared, still soaking wet, before Shao Shiye, agreeing to attend court the following day. Shu Fang, greatly worried, cried, but Shen Cuixi calmly instructed her on the composure required of a family matriarch.
She explained that if she were to leave, Ren Rufeng would surely die, and the Ren family was now in a position of "no retreat, no escape." She advised Shu Fang to find a calming activity to steady her heart. In a fleeting moment, Shen Cuixi saw the figure of Wei Lianggong in the courtyard.
Ren Xiushan, having woken up crying from a dream, expressed his unwavering belief that his uncle was innocent and that his mother would surely clear his name, recalling Wei Lianggong's teaching to form one's own judgment rather than blindly following popular opinion.
Episode 23 Recap
Shen Cuixi is brought to court. Zeng Baoqin, waiting early outside the prefect's office, knows Shen Cuixi is steadfast, a determination she recognized when Shen Cuixi escaped from a boat. Zeng Baoqin advises Shen Cuixi that while death is a momentary thought, living is difficult, yet offers the only chance to overturn the case.
Cao Furen, hearing of Shen Cuixi's trial and recalling a past incident involving a "vixen" in her household, immediately orders a sedan chair to buy a coffin. She still holds some old feelings and wishes to preserve Shen Cuixi's innocence, not wanting her body to be carelessly discarded. In court, Cao Wenbin interrogates Zhang Biao. Zhang Biao claims he killed Ren Xuetang, then feared Shen Cuixi's revenge, leading him to confront Ren Rufeng.
There, he allegedly discovered a "secret": Ren Rufeng killed Ren Xuetang due to an "uncle-niece-in-law affair." Ren Rufeng, enraged by the slander, attempts to strangle Zhang Biao and is subsequently removed by officers. Shen Cuixi, questioned by Cao Wenbin, asserts the principle of "catching a thief with the loot, catching adulterers in pairs."
Zhang Biao then claims to have personally witnessed Shen Cuixi and Ren Rufeng meeting secretly on a boat, specifying that Shen Cuixi has a red mole on her right elbow. Cao Wenbin orders Shen Cuixi's sleeve removed, and despite her resistance, a red mole is indeed revealed on her arm. This act, described as ruining Shen Cuixi's innocence and an abuse rather than a trial, is followed by Shen Cuixi being beaten with ten planks outside the yamen.
Cao Wenbin is determined to beat her until she confesses, clearly aiming for a forced confession. During this, Cao Furen arrives with the coffin, intending it for Shen Cuixi's "final journey" or to advise her to die to preserve her innocence, believing a woman who loses her reputation should not live. Ru Yi expresses confusion over Cao Furen's actions, to which Zeng Baoqin remarks that if everything were clear, there wouldn't be so much suffering in the world.
Ding Rong, wanting to save Shen Cuixi and fearing the loss of the double-sided Kesi technique if she dies, reports the situation to Li Zhao. Li Zhao instructs Ding Rong to continue monitoring the yamen, emphasizing the importance of securing the double-sided Kesi. Shen Cuixi, however, is defiant. While acknowledging the societal belief that a woman without reputation is better off dead, she questions why people are forced to die and asserts the importance of living.
She politely declines Cao Furen's coffin, stating her intention to live well, find Ren Xuetang's killer, and see her accusers disgraced and ruined. Following the trial, three Ren family clan elders attempt to seize all Ren family property as clan assets, intending to drive out Chen Xiaohong and Shu Fang. They dismiss Shu Fang's objections, pointing out her lack of formal marriage or consummation with Ren Rufeng, and advise her to remarry.
At this critical moment, Zeng Baoqin arrives at the Ren residence with people, playing festive music. She declares her intention to marry into the Ren family (specifically Ren Xuetang, as a means to become the principal mistress and protect the family's century-old foundation), thereby preventing the elders from annexing the family estate. Her arguments are persuasive, and the uncles reluctantly accept her status.
However, soon after, Cao Wenbin's assistant, Shao Shiye, arrives with officials, ostensibly to search for evidence of Shen Cuixi and Ren Rufeng's plot to murder Ren Xuetang. Zeng Baoqin, recalling a past experience where her own father's home was raided, realizes Cao Wenbin's true intention is to seize the Ren family's assets. She immediately mobilizes her people to defend the family's treasure pavilion and storeroom, despite knowing it might be a futile effort.
She leverages the authority of the Weaving Bureau to delay Shao Shiye for half an hour. When Shao Shiye persists, demanding access to the warehouse, Zeng Baoqin threatens to commit suicide with a hairpin, warning him that while Cao Wenbin might escape consequences, Shao Shiye would not. Shao Shiye doubts her resolve, but just as she is about to stab herself, Li Zhao arrives, saves her, and drives Shao Shiye away.
After saving Zeng Baoqin, Li Zhao reminds Cao Wenbin that Zeng Baoqin is his junior sister, implying she should not be harmed. Cao Wenbin then approaches Li Zhao with a deal: Cao Wenbin will hand over the Ren family's double-sided Kesi technique to Li Zhao, provided Li Zhao confiscates the Ren family's property (specifically the storeroom) for Cao Wenbin. Cao Wenbin frames this as a fair and reasonable exchange. Li Zhao agrees.
The following day, Liu Shiye, acting on Li Zhao's orders, proceeds to raid and confiscate the Ren family's storeroom and other property. Zeng Baoqin's prolonged efforts to protect the family's assets are ultimately in vain. Outside the Ren residence, Li Zhao calls out to Zeng Baoqin. She turns, walks up to him, and, without a word, slaps him across the face in a fit of rage. Meanwhile, in the prison, Cao Wenbin visits Shen Cuixi.
He speaks hypocritical platitudes, but Shen Cuixi demands he be direct. Cao Wenbin asks her to hand over the Ren family's double-sided Kesi technique, promising in return to release the Ren family elders and children. While he says this, Ren Rufeng is heard screaming from beatings in an adjacent cell, his cries echoing throughout the prison. Cao Wenbin, despite his outwardly hypocritical demeanor, is clearly aiming for a forced confession.
Shen Cuixi does not immediately comply, instead requesting to see her family. Cao Wenbin refuses to grant this easily but provides her with paper and a pen. Shen Cuixi spends the entire night in her cell writing a "suicide letter" for the Ren family, finishing it as dawn breaks outside the prison.
Episode 24 Recap
Shen Cuixi and Ren Rufeng are imprisoned, but Cao Wenbin allows the Ren family to visit. Chen Xiaohong and Shu Fang prepare food and bring it to Shen Cuixi in prison. Shen Cuixi assures them that Cao Wenbin promised she and Ren Rufeng would be released in seven days. Cao Wenbin takes the Ren family’s kerchief weaving techniques from Shen Cuixi and gives them to Li Zhao, demanding the Ren family’s wealth in return.
Li Zhao reveals where half of the wealth is hidden, but insists on verifying the authenticity of the techniques before handing over the remaining half. He explains that even the best artisans require a month to complete the verification. Cao Wenbin is angered, reminding Li Zhao that he promised Shen Cuixi their release in seven days. Cao Wenbin fears that the Ren family’s case has reached Jiangzhe, so he urges Li Zhao to resolve it quickly.
After seven days, Chen Xiaohong, Zeng Baoqin, and Shu Fang wait at the Ren mansion gate from early morning until sunset, but Shen Cuixi and Ren Rufeng do not return. Chen Xiaohong realizes something has gone wrong. She speaks with Zeng Baoqin, reminding her that wife is wife and concubine is concubine, and hoping they can coexist peacefully when Shen Cuixi returns. Chen Xiaohong reminds Zeng Baoqin that Shen Cuixi is capable.
Zeng Baoqin assures her that after so much, they won't fight like they used to, and will work together to protect the Ren family and raise Xiu Shan together. Meanwhile, Lin Dahu arrives at the Ren household, demanding money from his sister Shu Fang. Shu Fang reluctantly gives him money to get rid of him, but Shu Yan secretly follows Lin Dahu to a gambling den and captures him.
Shu Fang hires a storyteller to entertain Chen Xiaohong, but the stories only make her sadder. That night, Chen Xiaohong gives Shu Fang a mechanical box containing Lin Dahu's indenture, explaining that he will be sent to work on a farm, as she believes better days are ahead for Shu Fang and Ren Rufeng. Shu Fang is surprised that Chen Xiaohong knows how to make mechanical boxes.
Chen Xiaohong recounts her past, explaining that she learned carpentry from her first husband and later came to the Ren family to repair weaving machines before becoming Ren Xuetang's concubine and giving birth to Ren Rufeng. Chen Xiaohong warns Shu Fang never to do anything wrong, not even once, or she will never be able to hold her head high. She reflects on her own life, wanting to live more clearly before her end.
One morning, Chen Xiaohong dresses carefully and overhears gossiping about the Ren family on the street. She leaves a letter for Shu Fang and goes to the yamen, where she beats the Dengwen drum to bring attention to the injustice. She declares that she has nowhere else to turn for justice.
She swears on her life that Ren Rufeng is innocent of murder and that his relationship with Shen Cuixi is honorable, then kills herself by hitting her head on the drum, causing public outcry. Chen Xiaohong's death causes public outrage. Li Zhao is furious with Cao Wenbin for escalating the matter, warning him that the resulting public outcry could lead to Cao's family being executed. Cao Wenbin threatens to take Li Zhao down with him.
Li Zhao advises Cao Wenbin to coerce Shen Cuixi into confessing, exploiting her loyalty. Cao Wenbin threatens Shen Cuixi with harm to the Ren family. The next day, Cao Wenbin announces in court that Shen Cuixi, motivated by jealousy of Ren Xuetang's love for his concubine, plotted and murdered her husband, exonerating Ren Rufeng. He pressures Shen Cuixi to sign a confession. Ren Rufeng tries to stop her, but Shen Cuixi signs.
The night before, Cao Wenbin visited Shen Cuixi in prison, informing her that Chen Xiaohong had killed herself to bring attention to the injustice. He reveals that officials from Jiangzhe will arrive in Suzhou to investigate, and he must resolve the case before then. Cao Wenbin also reveals that Ren Rufeng is accused of colluding with river bandits, which could lead to the Ren family's assets being seized.
He offers Shen Cuixi a choice: save the Ren family or save herself. Shen Cuixi confesses, and Ren Rufeng is released. Ding Rong deliberately spreads information among the people that Chen Xiaohong was pleading for Shen Cuixi, so Shen Cuixi must be innocent and wrongly accused. The Ren family is shrouded in grief. Three uncles appear at Chen Xiaohong's funeral, feigning concern. They state that if Shen Cuixi hadn't confessed, they could have intervened, but now it's impossible.
They instruct them to take good care of Xiu Shan and raise him well. Shu Fang reveals to Zeng Baoqin that Shen Cuixi instructed her to release the kerchief weaving techniques if anything happened to her, so that all of Suzhou's weaving households could learn them.
Shen Cuixi entrusted Shu Fang with the Ren family's double-sided embroidery techniques, clarifying that the restoration of the technique is not about copying it completely, but about understanding and integrating the techniques of Song, Yuan, and Ming dynasties to create good products. Li Zhao replaced eight batches of technicians, but they were unable to produce kerchiefs like Qing Yue Fang, so he knew that the booklet Shen Cuixi gave was false. Soon after, Zeng Baoqin seeks Li Zhao, offering the authentic double-sided kerchief weaving techniques in exchange for Shen Cuixi's life.
Episode 25 Recap
Zeng Baoqin attempted to save Shen Cuixi by bringing the real Kesi technique manual to Li Zhao, expecting to trade it for Shen Cuixi's life. Li Zhao, with his photographic memory, initially questioned the manual's authenticity but, upon seeing it, quickly memorized the technique. He then dismissed it as useless. Angered, Zeng Baoqin snatched the manual back and tried to leave, but Li Zhao stopped her, hugging her and urging her to abandon the declining Ren family.
Zeng Baoqin's recurring cough worsened, and she received Ginseng Lung Cleansing Pills, sent by Li Zhao through the Imperial Silk Bureau. She refused to take them, ordering Ru Yi to throw them away. Ru Yi searched for other medicinal herbs but discovered the Imperial Silk Bureau had bought all the medicine Zeng Baoqin needed, making it impossible to acquire more.
Eventually, realizing she had many things still to do and needing to live, Zeng Baoqin reconsidered and retrieved the discarded pills. Shu Fang witnessed this act. Meanwhile, Zeng Baoqin spread rumors that she was planning to remarry, even meeting with Steward Ma and others to discuss wedding arrangements. These rumors quickly spread throughout Suzhou. A jealous Li Zhao intervened, crashing one of her meetings and declaring that no one in Suzhou would be permitted to marry her without his consent.
Zeng Baoqin countered, accusing Li Zhao of betraying his promise to protect her by raiding the Ren family the very next day, asserting that she needed a reliable patron. The widespread rumors of Zeng Baoqin's remarriage deeply angered Shu Fang, who intended to confront her. Ren Rufeng, having reflected during his time in prison, tried to dissuade Shu Fang, arguing that survival was more important than family reputation or honor.
Shu Fang, however, did not listen and confronted Zeng Baoqin, scolding her as an ingrate for seemingly abandoning the Ren family in its time of trouble. Zeng Baoqin offered no explanation for her actions. Ren Xiushan subsequently went missing after Li Zhao took him after school, causing Zeng Baoqin and others to become frantic with worry and prepare a search party.
Just as they were about to leave the family estate, Li Zhao returned Xiushan, holding his hand, much to Zeng Baoqin's relief. Li Zhao then took Zeng Baoqin to a room filled with gold, silver, and numerous portraits of her. He claimed these were all hers, money he had saved year after year to buy her freedom.
He recounted his past as a poor student when the Zeng family faced hardship, and how he, despite his desire, lacked the power to help. He explained that he studied hard solely for her, starting to accumulate wealth to buy her freedom, but was ultimately a step too late, as Ren Xuetang had already taken her. He confessed his deep, long-standing love for her.
Zeng Baoqin questioned why he didn't use this money to cover the Ren family's deficit and why he raided the family and tried to harm Shen Cuixi, despite claiming to protect her. Li Zhao argued that without Shen Cuixi, Zeng Baoqin and Ren Xuetang would have spent their lives together.
Now that Ren Xuetang was dead, he proposed marriage, claiming he didn't mind that her heart belonged only to Ren Xuetang, but asserted that only he could provide her with a wealthy household and ensure Xiushan's successful education. Appearing softened by his confession, Zeng Baoqin requested Li Zhao to write an official agreement. The following day, Li Zhao arrived at the Ren family estate with a grand procession and wedding gifts, complete with gongs and drums.
Shu Fang attempted to block their entry, but Ru Yi announced that Zeng Baoqin wished to see Li Zhao. Zeng Baoqin then produced the agreement she intended to use to write a letter of accusation against Li Zhao to send to Inspector Wu. However, Li Zhao, who had anticipated her move, advised her not to send it and prompted her to check the agreement.
Zeng Baoqin discovered that Li Zhao had written the document with a special disappearing ink, whose words would gradually vanish when exposed to light. She realized she had been thoroughly outsmarted by his cunning. Li Zhao then had his men remove the wedding gifts. Zeng Baoqin sat dejectedly in the doorway, her plan a complete failure.
When Shu Fang and Ren Rufeng saw her and asked what had happened, she explained her intention to set a trap for Li Zhao to save Shen Cuixi, and how it had all come to nothing. Zeng Baoqin visited Shen Cuixi in prison, where they drank together and she tearfully expressed her profound regret for foolishly attempting to make a deal with someone as cunning as Li Zhao.
She conveyed her pain, feeling she had done everything possible to save Shen Cuixi and the Ren family, yet found herself out of ideas. Shen Cuixi comforted her, urging her not to blame herself and assuring her that caring for Ren Xiushan was enough. Shen Cuixi also reflected that Li Zhao's feelings for Zeng Baoqin were likely just an embellishment to a splendid future, not a bond for life and death.
Zeng Baoqin, however, vowed not to give up until the very last moment, and showed Shen Cuixi the small wooden figurine carved by Wei Lianggong, encouraging Shen Cuixi not to lose hope either. The Ren family's predicament became a widespread topic of discussion. Aunt Fu, whose life Shen Cuixi had once saved, tried to rally scattered weavers to plead for Shen Cuixi, even attempting to gather them to go to the execution ground the next day.
However, the weavers, fearing that speaking out would be a capital offense, refused to participate. For her efforts, Aunt Fu was severely beaten by her husband, who accused her of showing off. In a drastic move, Zeng Baoqin called together the major shopkeepers and announced her intention to make the Ren family's Kesi technique public. The shopkeepers were greatly surprised and dismayed, urging her to keep it private, as it was the Ren family's priceless treasure and a unique legacy.
They understood Shen Cuixi was wronged and desired to help, noting that the establishment of the general accounting office had brought improved prospects for Suzhou weavers. Later, as Zeng Baoqin tucked Ren Xiushan into bed, he called out for his mother in his sleep. Zeng Baoqin comforted him, promising that his mother would return soon, expressing her deep wish to always be with him.
Episode 26 Recap
The day of Shen Cuixi's execution arrived. Shu Fang and Ren Rufeng had tried to persuade Zeng Baoqin to take Xiushan away, but Zeng Baoqin entrusted Xiushan to them instead. Shen Cuixi waited in prison until dawn; when the jailers led her out, a small wooden figure dropped from her hand.
On the same morning, Fu Shen, despite her husband's repeated attempts to stop her, resolutely broke free and went door-to-door, rousing the local weavers to go to the execution ground and support Shen Cuixi. Meanwhile, Cao Wenbin had gathered Suzhou weaving elites the night before, warning them against interfering. Shu Fang and Ren Rufeng prepared to take Xiushan to the countryside, but though young, Xiushan knew it was his mother's day of tribulation.
He knelt and cried, begging them to take him to the execution ground to see his mother one last time, prompting Ren Rufeng to carry him back towards the city. Shen Cuixi was then paraded to the execution ground, where many Suzhou common people and weavers who had received her kindness had gathered. Seeing Ren Rufeng, Shu Fang, and Xiushan among the crowd, Shen Cuixi felt deep distress, not wanting her son to witness her in such a state.
As the appointed hour arrived, Cao Wenbin ordered the execution to proceed. Zeng Baoqin requested to approach Shen Cuixi and feed her a final mouthful of food, which Cao Wenbin, pleased at the imminent execution, allowed.
Shen Cuixi worried for Zeng Baoqin, but Zeng Baoqin, taking a gamble, declared before all the Suzhou people that Shen Cuixi was innocent, guaranteeing it with her own life and vowing to share Shen Cuixi's fate if she were truly guilty of killing her husband. Ren Rufeng and Shu Fang also knelt, guaranteeing Shen Cuixi's innocence with their lives. The common people outside the execution ground also knelt, shouting for justice and demanding a halt to the execution.
Even the executioner, a compassionate man, knelt and pleaded with Cao Wenbin to stop the proceedings due to the outcry, fearing for everyone's lives. Cao Wenbin, however, was determined to eliminate Shen Cuixi and ordered the execution to continue, falsely claiming that the deceased Ren Xuetang was the innocent party. At this critical moment, Ren Xuetang appeared, running towards the scene wearing a straw hat.
Upon removing it, he was recognized by everyone as Ren Xuetang, questioning what crime Shen Cuixi had committed. Cao Wenbin was terrified and ordered his Shiye to verify the identity of the person before them. The Suzhou citizens all attested to Ren Xuetang's identity, and when Cao Wenbin's Shiye attempted to twist the facts, Governor Wu arrived with his retinue.
Governor Wu confirmed Ren Xuetang's identity, stating that he was already aware of the case and, acting on behalf of the Emperor, was there to pacify the people and severely punish the cruel and corrupt Cao Wenbin. He immediately ordered his men to the prefectural yamen to arrest Cao Wenbin. Ren Xuetang rushed onto the execution ground, where he saw Shen Cuixi beaten, bloodied, and disfigured. He quickly took off his cloak to cover her, but Shen Cuixi instinctively recoiled.
Slowly, she began to accept the reality that Ren Xuetang was alive, then furiously punched him repeatedly, releasing her pent-up frustration. Ren Xuetang embraced her, his eyes filled with guilt and pity. Meanwhile, Cao Wenbin frantically rushed back to the prefectural yamen, pulling his wife to pack valuables and escape, but he was apprehended and arrested by Governor Wu at the door.
Elsewhere, Ding Rong informed Li Zhao that Ren Xuetang had returned alive, causing Li Zhao to freeze, his recent joy over acquiring the double-sided kesi technique vanishing instantly. Ren Xuetang and Zeng Baoqin escorted Shen Cuixi back to the Ren manor, where Shu Fang brought a brazier for Shen Cuixi to step over as she re-entered the house. Ren Xuetang saw Xiushan, surprised at how grown his son was, unsure how to interact with him.
Xiushan, initially disbelieving and hiding from his father, soon cried, asking why his father had taken so long to return and where he had been all these years. Ren Xuetang, crying, embraced his son after more than seven years. Zeng Baoqin helped Shen Cuixi bathe, and seeing the wounds on her back, Zeng Baoqin shed tears. Shen Cuixi had been to the brink of death, and her mindset had changed significantly.
Despite being lifelong rivals, their shared hardships deepened their bond, and they felt as if they were back in their youth, holding hands while weaving kesi. Later, in the main hall, Ren Xuetang claimed that upon his return, he immediately heard of Shen Cuixi's predicament and sought out Governor Wu to obtain justice for the Ren family, asserting that he had arrived just in time.
When Zeng Baoqin asked where he had been all these years, Ren Xuetang claimed he had been chasing Zhang Biao, drifting at sea for many years and encountering many strange things. Both Shen Cuixi and Zeng Baoqin saw through his lies but did not expose him. Ren Rufeng also pressed Ren Xuetang about his whereabouts. Ren Xuetang repeated his story about chasing Zhang Biao and getting lost in the vast ocean. Enraged, Ren Rufeng overturned his wine, disbelieving him.
He questioned Ren Xuetang if he knew what had transpired in the past seven years: his mother had died, Shen Cuixi had nearly been executed, Li Zhao and Cao Wenbin had relentlessly persecuted them, and the clan members had been opportunistic. Ren Xuetang offered a weak apology, admitting his pain and that he had wanted to return countless times but feared his return would shatter the family.
He recalled being a mischievous child when he first met Shen Cuixi and his old madam instructing him to treat Shen Cuixi well for life, yet Shen Cuixi's diligence made him feel inferior. Shen Cuixi's every word and action adhered strictly to the rules, while Zeng Baoqin, lively and understanding, could communicate with him with just a glance. He regarded Zeng Baoqin as his lifelong love, having promised her a life together. He felt he could not forsake Shen Cuixi, who lived by the rules, nor could he betray Zeng Baoqin, his soulmate.
Episode 27 Recap
Ren Xuetang recounted his past struggles, expressing his guilt over having chosen the Ren family over Zeng Baoqin years ago, which led him to relentlessly search for her, believing he had failed her devotion. He viewed Shen Cuixi as a mirror image of himself, but admired her courage in facing challenges, contrasting it with his own tendency to escape, which left him unable to choose between Shen Cuixi and Zeng Baoqin upon his return.
He detailed being severely injured by an arrow during an initial attempt to apprehend Zhang Biao. After recovering, he hired escorts for years to track Zhang Biao, convinced that Zhang Biao's continued existence endangered the Ren family. In a later, severe confrontation with Zhang Biao, Ren Xuetang was critically wounded, almost dying, but was saved by a Master. It took him a full three years to recover and stand up again.
He subsequently feared returning home to face both Shen Cuixi and Zeng Baoqin, but the Master encouraged him to confront his situation, prompting his return. Ren Xuetang expressed relief that he had not made a grave mistake. Ren Rufeng advised Ren Xuetang to be truthful with his two sisters-in-law, asserting that it was normal for a man to have multiple wives and concubines, and thus Ren Xuetang should not be so conflicted.
Shu Fang overheard these remarks and became furious, giving the food she had brought to Shu Yan. Later, a drunken Ren Rufeng laughed at Ren Xuetang's indecisiveness regarding his love for Shen Cuixi or Zeng Baoqin, reiterating that Ren Xuetang should not be tormented by such a choice, as any man would envy having both. Meanwhile, Cao Wenbin received his deserved punishment.
As a corrupt official who misjudged murder cases and imprisoned innocent citizens, he incited widespread public outrage that reached the Emperor. The Emperor, enraged, ordered Cao Wenbin and his wife to be exiled and publicly scorned. Liu Shiye bid farewell to Li Zhao, who had little to say. Zeng Baoqin visited Li Zhao at the weaving office, playing chess with him and recalling their first game.
Li Zhao questioned how long she had known of his plot to kill Ren Xuetang, to which she confessed she had known for six years, initially finding it unbelievable. Li Zhao remained perplexed, unable to understand why Shen Cuixi and Zeng Baoqin, whom he believed should have been mortal enemies as wife and concubine, had instead become close confidantes and allied against him, despite his own efforts to protect Zeng Baoqin.
Zeng Baoqin questioned if Li Zhao truly believed all his actions were for her, asserting that he had lost his true nature, consumed by fame and greed. She explained that Shen Cuixi, even while confining her, had always left her a "living path" (a door) in her small courtyard, unlike Li Zhao, who was ruthless and never left others a way out.
Zeng Baoqin emphasized that giving others a path to life also provides one's own, believing that if Li Zhao had retained even a trace of kindness, his current predicament would have been averted. Despite his daytime power, Li Zhao suffered nightly nightmares for years. Only after the imperial decree ordered his conscription into the military and deployment to the far-off Northwest army did he feel a sudden lightness and sleep soundly for the first time in years.
Before his departure, Zeng Baoqin offered him words of wisdom, hoping he would cultivate kindness to secure a chance at life. In other events, Ding Rong brought food to his two daughters, who remarked on his positive change, noting that he now smiled. Qingyuefang re-opened, with both Shen Cuixi and Zeng Baoqin deeply cherishing their current life and family.
Shen Cuixi realized that simple acts, like living an ordinary life and walking the streets with Zeng Baoqin, were the most precious. Shu Yan prepared a hairpin for Ru Yi, but Ru Yi expressed a preference for flowers. Zeng Baoqin instructed Ru Yi to send Ren Xuetang's clothing to the study, explaining that he would reside there henceforth.
Ru Yi was puzzled, but Zeng Baoqin clarified that it was more appropriate for Ren Xuetang to live in the study given that both she and Shen Cuixi were present in the residence. On Shu Fang's birthday, Ren Rufeng had prepared a surprise feast and bought her favorite velvet flowers. He was seen putting a headpiece on a woman, which Shu Fang misunderstood, believing he was involved with another woman and feeling jealous.
Shu Fang was also displeased that Ren Rufeng was still eating and drinking while Qingyuefang was re-opening and Shen Cuixi and Ren Xuetang were busy, fearing people would gossip about his idleness and lack of ambition. A drunken Ren Rufeng claimed he had borne the Ren family's burden for years and was now relieved by Ren Xuetang's return. He scoffed at Ren Xuetang's indecisiveness, stating that any man would envy such "blessings" and Ren Xuetang shouldn't be conflicted.
Infuriated, Shu Fang wrote a divorce letter and pressed Ren Rufeng's handprint onto it while he was unconscious. Later, servants' gossip further convinced Ren Rufeng that the Ren family's recent misfortunes were entirely due to his association with the water bandit Zhang Biao from the casino, leading him to lose interest in managing the family. He refused Shen Cuixi's offer to take over Qingyuefang.
Shu Fang, seeing his lack of ambition and believing he desired multiple wives and was entangled with other women, confronted him with the divorce letter. Ren Rufeng then realized Shu Fang had misunderstood; the woman she saw had no romantic ties to him. Shu Fang subsequently overheard a conversation between Shu Mo and that woman, and also discovered the woman was delivering velvet flowers that Ren Rufeng had sent for Shu Fang, causing her to question her earlier misjudgment.
However, before Ren Rufeng could fully explain, Shu Fang was occupied with Qingyuefang matters. Many weavers had returned, and Shu Fang successfully negotiated with the artisans to extend their work hours for urgent customer orders, promising fair compensation, which they all agreed to. Despite most of the items confiscated by Li Zhao and Cao Wenbin being returned, rejuvenating Qingyuefang and revitalizing the entire Ren family business required substantial capital. Ren Xuetang proposed using antiques, calligraphy, and paintings as collateral.
Shen Cuixi, considering the upcoming imperial examinations next year, suggested Ren Xuetang focus on his studies and entrusted her with the business. She assigned Zeng Baoqin two tasks and retained Shu Fang as the chief accountant. She also allocated Qingyuefang to Ren Rufeng, but he unexpectedly refused, pulling Shu Fang away. Ren Xuetang found Ren Rufeng's behavior strange.
Shen Cuixi understood that Ren Rufeng blamed himself for the family's troubles, believing it stemmed from his association with the water bandit Zhang Biao at the casino. Ren Xuetang, recognizing that the Ren family's prominence naturally attracted trouble even without Zhang Biao, decided to speak with Ren Rufeng later. However, Shen Cuixi advised Ren Xuetang not to intervene, suggesting Shu Fang should persuade Ren Rufeng, as she was currently the most important person in his life.
Ren Rufeng felt that with Ren Xuetang back as the family patriarch, he and Shu Fang could simply live their own, simpler lives. Shu Fang, however, was angered by Ren Rufeng's complacency, his previous remarks about multiple wives, and his perceived entanglement with other women, stating she would not halt her own progress just because of her marriage to him.
Episode 28 Recap
Ren Rufeng brought a woman selling velvet flowers to the Qingyue Workshop, attempting to explain a misunderstanding to Shu Fang. However, Shu Fang was extremely busy, entangled with the affairs of the Qingyue Workshop/silk weaving mill, and consequently had no time or desire to engage with him. Ren Rufeng tried various methods to appease Shu Fang, including preparing a lavish meal and waiting for her all night, but she continued to ignore him.
The entire Ren family became aware of their dispute, but Shen Cuixi remained unperturbed, calmly painting. When Zeng Baoqin expressed concern about Shu Fang and Ren Rufeng's ongoing conflict and the potential for their feelings to fade over time, Shen Cuixi felt it was best to give them some space and time, and even asked Zeng Baoqin to teach her painting for k'o-ssu patterns. Meanwhile, Shu Yan, who was fond of Ru Yi, approached Ren Xuetang to arrange their marriage.
Seven years prior, Ren Xuetang had promised to act as the officiant for Shu Yan in this matter. Ren Xuetang, with Ru Yi present, announced the betrothal of Ru Yi to Shu Yan in front of Shen Cuixi and Zeng Baoqin. Ru Yi reacted with extreme anger. She possessed a free-spirited personality, abhorring any form of restriction.
While she had genuinely liked Shu Yan previously, her affection had waned after he began lecturing her about rules and showing disapproval of her behavior. She vehemently stated she would not marry someone she did not like and was particularly infuriated that Shu Yan had asked Ren Xuetang to arrange the marriage, viewing it as a constraint. Ren Xuetang insisted that according to rules, Ru Yi could not object to a betrothal he had made.
In a dramatic act of refusal, Ru Yi publicly cut off her hair, declaring she would rather become a nun or die than marry Shu Yan. Seeing this, Shen Cuixi intervened, advising Ren Xuetang to call off the engagement since Ru Yi was unwilling. Ren Xuetang agreed, canceling the marriage.
Shu Yan was confused by Ru Yi's fierce resistance, explaining that his intention in seeking Ren Xuetang's help was to ensure a proper marriage arrangement, with parental consent and a matchmaker, to prevent Ru Yi from being ridiculed. Ren Xuetang clarified that neither Ru Yi nor Shu Yan was inherently wrong. He explained that Ru Yi, having grown up in an institute, had never learned strict rules and possessed an open, straightforward personality that could not tolerate constraints.
Shu Yan, on the other hand, was someone who imposed rules, creating the fundamental conflict between them. Ren Xuetang further explained that what Ru Yi truly desired was a partner willing to break societal rules for her, a feat Shu Yan, despite his deep affection for Ru Yi, was incapable of doing. Later, while Zeng Baoqin combed Ru Yi's hair, Ru Yi reiterated her refusal to marry Shu Yan, yet she cried more sorrowfully than anyone else.
Ren Rufeng, in frustration, blamed Shen Cuixi for allowing Shu Fang to manage the family's business, causing Shu Fang to be incessantly busy and making their own misunderstandings difficult to resolve. Shen Cuixi, however, believed that one should not only think of oneself. Misinterpreting this, Ren Rufeng decided to focus on showing utmost care and consideration for Shu Fang. He delivered pastries, which Shu Fang, having already eaten lunch, kept for later.
To avoid disturbing her work, Ren Rufeng waited outside the silk weaving mill. One night, Shu Fang nearly fell in the dark, prompting Ren Rufeng to light numerous lanterns the next day to illuminate her way, despite the mill's strict rules against lights due to fire hazards. A gust of wind caused the lanterns to catch fire, nearly starting a blaze. Shu Fang scolded Ren Rufeng for being childish, leaving him deeply frustrated and depressed.
Walking on the street the next day, Ren Rufeng encountered Shu Fang outside a casino, where she was waiting for Wang Yuanwai to collect overdue payments for the Ren family. Wang Yuanwai, taking advantage of Shu Fang being a woman, not only refused to pay but also insulted her. Seeing this, Ren Rufeng stepped forward to defend his wife, teaching Wang Yuanwai a lesson and successfully recovering the outstanding debt.
Impressed by his effectiveness, Shu Fang suggested Ren Rufeng take permanent responsibility for debt collection and similar tasks. However, Ren Rufeng refused, complaining that Shu Fang was forcing him to do things he disliked. He was still haunted by the shadow of the Zhang Biao incident and feared bringing trouble upon the Ren family. Shu Fang, angered by his lack of ambition, then ignored him. Feeling helpless, Ren Rufeng sought Zeng Baoqin's advice.
Zeng Baoqin suggested he give Shu Fang cosmetics and jewelry to appease her, and then they could sit down and talk calmly. She understood that Shu Fang's actions stemmed from a desire for Ren Rufeng to be ambitious and achieve something. Ren Rufeng mentioned Shu Fang's constant sarcasm, which Zeng Baoqin explained was a sign of her anger, reinforcing the need to appease her first.
Ren Rufeng tried several things to please Shu Fang, but she remained angry, even telling him to "get lost." Still distraught, Ren Rufeng eventually took Shu Mo's advice and prepared a romantic fireworks display. Shu Fang was initially touched by the gesture. However, the next day, Shu Fang announced her decision to move out of the Ren family home.
She explained that she had been tirelessly busy, her feet never touching the ground, and Ren Rufeng had never considered helping her or understanding her needs. She expressed deep disappointment in his lack of ambition, stating that she had hoped they could work together to improve the Ren family, but his lack of progress made her unwilling to continue their relationship. Ren Rufeng, in despair, was then counseled by Shen Cuixi.
Shen Cuixi encouraged him to overcome his internal hurdle, assuring him that no one in the Ren family blamed him. She reminded him that Shu Fang had married him not for his status, but because he had helped Shen Cuixi uphold the Qingyue Workshop and the Ren family during their most difficult times, when they were on the verge of starvation. Now that Ren Xuetang had returned, Ren Rufeng was acting idle.
Shen Cuixi acknowledged his self-reproach over the Zhang Biao incident, but urged him to realize that separating from Shu Fang because of an unresolved past trauma would be unfair to his mother, to Shu Fang, and most of all, to himself. She advised him that while there might be gossip, one's life is their own, not dictated by others' opinions. These words helped Ren Rufeng resolve his internal conflict.
Episode 29 Recap
Shu Fang has moved out of the Ren family home, her belongings gone, leaving Ren Rufeng aware of her departure. Missing her, he decides to pull himself together and begins diligently learning the family business, specifically the abacus, to the point where his hands become swollen. Shen Cuixi recalls that Shu Fang's hands also hurt when she first began learning the abacus. Following the turmoil within the Ren family, Zeng Baoqin assumes the role of head of the household.
Gossip about Shen Cuixi and the family spreads throughout Suzhou, described vividly by rumor mongers; Ren Xuetang refutes these stories and scolds those spreading them. The head accountants approach Ren Xuetang, asking him to document the experiences of Shen Cuixi and Suzhou's 100,000 weavers, as well as the Ren family, over the past seven years. Ren Xuetang complies, writing an article whose every word flows sincerely and truthfully.
Shen Cuixi is later found lost in thought, either in a small courtyard or leaning in a pavilion, staring at a small door and recalling Wei Lianggong's question about whether she ever considered walking out that door. Ren Xuetang appears behind her and startles her, just as he did when they were children.
Shen Cuixi calls him the best husband in Suzhou, and Ren Xuetang thanks her for breaking rules and opening the door, thereby offering Zeng Baoqin a way to live. While Shen Cuixi is grateful for Ren Xuetang's kindness to both her and Zeng Baoqin, Ren Xuetang feels immense guilt, believing he owes Shen Cuixi too much. He proposes that Shen Cuixi have a child, a biological son, for her own support and to guard the Ren family.
He plans to then take Zeng Baoqin and Xiushan to a distant post. Deeply saddened by this proposition, Shen Cuixi soon after proposes divorce to Ren Xuetang. Having incidentally heard Wei Lianggong's name mentioned earlier while writing a memorial tablet, Ren Xuetang asks Ren Rufeng about Wei Lianggong that night. Ren Rufeng, assuming Ren Xuetang is listening to rumors, quickly explains that Shen Cuixi and Wei Lianggong were completely innocent of any wrongdoing.
Ren Xuetang, regretting never having met Wei Lianggong, expresses his longing to know what kind of person he was. Shen Cuixi visits Wei Lianggong's tomb to pay her respects, recounting recent events: her imprisonment, her time on the execution ground, and how she was on the verge of reuniting with Wei Lianggong before Ren Xuetang returned. She tells him she promised to live well and asks him not to walk too fast on the Bridge of Forgetfulness, waiting for her.
Ren Xuetang, who had ridden past the grave without disturbing her, hears these words, then turns and leaves, realizing that what he desired to repay Shen Cuixi was not what she truly wanted. Returning to the Ren family, Ren Xuetang sees a kèsī tapestry, depicting either a flower-and-bird or mandarin ducks playing in water design, in Shen Cuixi's kèsī room.
He recalls his past belief that Zeng Baoqin's kèsī was more agile and intelligent, thinking only she could truly promote the Ren family's artistry, while Shen Cuixi's work was dull, too technical, and lacked spiritual agility. He now understands the words of the Old Madam, who had told him that Shen Cuixi's kèsī would one day break through its technicality and achieve enlightenment, hoping he would be the one to inspire it.
He realizes that while agility is important, true mastery in kèsī comes from continuous, daily practice and constant refinement. Zeng Baoqin, seeing Shen Cuixi packing her belongings, speaks to Ren Xuetang. She believes that after enduring so much hardship and suffering so many painful, hidden wounds over the years, Shen Cuixi cannot leave the Ren family. Ren Xuetang asks Zeng Baoqin if Shen Cuixi were to leave, only the two of them would remain, to be "one couple for life."
Zeng Baoqin does not state her opinion, only remarking that it is enough that Ren Xuetang cares about her. Shen Cuixi then takes Ren Xuetang and Zeng Baoqin to eat noodles at Shen Shiniang's noodle shop, where she recounts Shen Shiniang's experiences and her own encounter with her. As Shen Cuixi eats her noodles heartily, Ren Xuetang and Zeng Baoqin do not touch theirs.
Shen Cuixi clarifies that her desire for divorce is not a magnanimous act to fulfill Ren Xuetang and Zeng Baoqin, whom she considers a sister; rather, it stems from her own selfishness and desire to live the life she truly wants. She explains that for most of her life, she lived for the praise and affirmation of others, including the Old Madam and Ren Xuetang.
Now, thanks in part to Ren Xuetang and the Ren family, she has become confident and independent, no longer wishing to be dependent on anyone but to be her own Shen Cuixi. She asks Ren Xuetang to grant her this wish. Ren Xuetang finally agrees to write the divorce papers, allowing Shen Cuixi to live the life she desires. Zeng Baoqin silently sheds tears.
Afterwards, Zeng Baoqin attempts to persuade Ren Xuetang to retract his decision, expressing concern about the immense difficulties a divorced woman faces. Ren Xuetang comforts her, suggesting that perhaps Shen Cuixi will return on her own after experiencing enough hardship outside.
Episode 30 Recap
Shen Cuixi hands Qingyuefang over to Zeng Baoqin. After a final hug with Xiushan, who expresses reluctance at her departure and wishes to visit often, Shen Cuixi leaves the Ren family without looking back. Both Ren Xuetang and Zeng Baoqin feel a sense of emptiness, though Ren Xuetang affirms that Shen Cuixi will forever remain their closest family member, even outside their doors. Shen Cuixi moves with Xiao Lan to a small courtyard called Jinxifang, which becomes their new home.
Here, Shen Cuixi embraces a life free from rigid rules, no longer using formal addresses with Shu Fang and Xiao Lan. She praises Xiao Lan's thoughtful nature for willingly following her despite the prospect of hardship, jokingly contrasting her with Shu Fang, who is quick with calculations and planned everything meticulously. Shu Fang, meanwhile, had wanted to stay and relax at Jinxifang but was essential to the Ren family and the general accounting office, compelling her to leave quickly.
Shen Cuixi then initiates an open class at Jinxifang, publicly recruiting apprentices by posting notices throughout Suzhou. This causes widespread discussion, as Kesi and embroidery techniques in Suzhou had historically been passed down within families, with open recruitment on this scale being unprecedented. Upon learning of this, several Ren family elders express their strong displeasure and confront Ren Xuetang.
While they also voice their dissatisfaction with his divorce from Shen Cuixi, Ren Xuetang remains unconcerned by their opinions and refuses to hold Shen Cuixi accountable. He defends her, explaining that she opened the workshop for livelihood, but the elders accuse Shen Cuixi of being rebellious, attributing it to Ren Xuetang's indulgence.
This makes Ren Xuetang recall Shen Cuixi's long-held ambition to create her own unique Kesi techniques, rather than merely repeating those of predecessors, and to teach them widely to many disciples across the land. Shortly after, Ren Xuetang visits Shen Cuixi at Jinxifang. He asks if she is satisfied with her current life, to which she replies that she has never been happier doing what she loves.
He reminds her of the Ren family elders' insistence that Jinxifang should only accept Ren family members as students, expressing concern that they might cause trouble, and specifically comes to warn her. Recalling her past aspirations to innovate Kesi techniques and teach them widely, Ren Xuetang acknowledges that her broad recruitment is a groundbreaking endeavor, but advises her that beginnings are always difficult.
He suggests she initially recruit reputable noble ladies as apprentices, rather than limiting herself solely to Ren family descendants, and reconsider other options once the venture is well-established. Shen Cuixi agrees to give his words careful consideration. On the opening day of Jinxifang and for apprentice recruitment, many people arrive to offer congratulations, including Zeng Baoqin and Ren Xuetang, who bring gifts and are welcomed inside by Shen Cuixi.
A little girl comes forward, eager to learn Kesi, but her mother adamantly refuses, publicly scolding her daughter and disparaging Shen Cuixi for her visible presence, calling it "indecent and shameless" with harsh words. Just then, Ding Rong arrives with his two daughters, Zhao Di and Yin Di, ostensibly to offer congratulations, but Shen Cuixi understands he has come specifically to support her. Ding Rong expresses his hope that his daughters can learn Kesi from Shen Cuixi.
Zhao Di and Yin Di formally pledge as disciples, and Shen Cuixi publicly accepts them as her first two students on Jinxifang's opening day. Ren Rufeng, having recently gained experience with accounting, seeks out Shen Cuixi, admitting that understanding the difficulty of Shu Fang's work has made him realize how much she had to endure, and he now feels hesitant to approach her. He sees Shu Fang, whom he hasn't encountered in a while.
In the preceding days, Shu Fang had been tirelessly busy at both Qingyuefang and Jinxifang, leaving her no time for the general accounting office. One night, she finally returns to the general accounting office to manage the accounts, eventually falling asleep from exhaustion at her desk. Ren Rufeng, filled with concern and pity for Shu Fang, thoughtfully covers her with a garment and proceeds to complete the remaining ledgers for her.
The next morning, Shu Fang wakes up anxious about the unfinished accounts, but Ren Rufeng informs her that he has already finished them. She checks the ledger, surprised and unexpectedly relieved that he genuinely completed all the work. Ren Rufeng asks for her forgiveness and proposes that they manage the accounts together from then on, leading to their full reconciliation, and her anger finally dissipates.
Separately, a mother brings her daughter, Da Ya, to Jinxifang, instructing her to kneel and formally request to become Shen Cuixi's disciple; the mother herself does not show her face. After learning about Da Ya's background, Shen Cuixi accepts the girl as an apprentice and gives her the name Shen Yuan. Xiao Lan's father, Ren Fu, pays the matchmaker Qian 500 wen to arrange a marriage for Xiao Lan to become a concubine in a wealthy family.
Ren Fu believes this will secure their future, hoping Xiao Lan will bear children, become a mistress, and enable them to live comfortably in their old age.
Fu Shen, Xiao Lan's mother, attempts to persuade her husband, reminding him that Shen Cuixi had previously saved their family from debt collectors by taking Xiao Lan in, and that the money Shen Cuixi paid was far more than sufficient even for a lifelong bond, despite Shen Cuixi's generosity in not pressing for such a deed of sale. Fu Shen suggests consulting Shen Cuixi about Xiao Lan's marriage, but is violently beaten and scolded by Ren Fu with his cane.
Xiao Lan, having been restless, kneels before Shen Cuixi, tearfully revealing her father's plan for her marriage. She explains that despite Ren Fu's poor leg and chronic illness, he is capable of hitting her mother with great force, and she desperately does not want to marry, especially not to suffer the same fate as her mother. The next day, Fu Shen comes to Jinxifang. Before she can explain, Shen Cuixi already knows she is there concerning Xiao Lan's marriage.
Recalling how she saved Fu Shen's family from debt in the past, Shen Cuixi clearly states that she alone will decide Xiao Lan's marriage, firmly asserting that even Xiao Lan's biological parents cannot override her decision. Fu Shen returns home and informs Ren Fu. Enraged, Ren Fu grabs his cane and threatens to report Shen Cuixi to the Ren family elders. Fu Shen, worried, rushes back to Jinxifang, urging Shen Cuixi to hide.
Shen Cuixi refuses, stating she has done nothing wrong. Soon after, Ren Fu has himself carried to Jinxifang, where he stages a dramatic and pitiful scene at the entrance. He kneels, pleads, cries, and shouts curses, attracting a crowd of gossiping onlookers, yet acting as if oblivious to their presence. Shen Cuixi prepares to go out. Fu Shen, apologizing for the trouble, is concerned when Xiao Lan proactively offers to confront Ren Fu and drive him away. However, Shen Cuixi comforts Fu Shen and permits Xiao Lan to go, seeing it as a valuable opportunity for Xiao Lan to gain life experience.
Episode 31 Recap
Ren Fu created a disturbance at the entrance of Jinxi Fang, claiming Shen Cuixi had corrupted Xiao Lan and intended to take her away, accusing Jinxi Fang of being immoral and encouraging women not to marry. Ren Xuetang appeared to defend Shen Cuixi, making it clear that anyone opposing Shen Cuixi was opposing him.
He asserted that Xiao Lan had been given to Shen Cuixi to repay a debt, and he offered to provide a formal indenture for Xiao Lan to Shen Cuixi. Ren Xuetang wanted to help Shen Cuixi by sending invitations in the name of the Ren family head, inviting distinguished women from Suzhou's prominent families to become Shen Cuixi's students.
Shen Cuixi thanked Ren Xuetang but reminded him that they were divorced, and it would be meaningless if he continued to handle every matter for Jinxi Fang, asking him not to come to Jinxi Fang again. Ren Xuetang, barred from entering Jinxi Fang, returned to the Ren household and told Zeng Baoqin about it. Zeng Baoqin laughed, understanding that Shen Cuixi's actions were well-intentioned, as she didn't want to burden the Ren family.
Ren Xuetang worried about potential problems for Jinxi Fang, but Zeng Baoqin believed Shen Cuixi could find true happiness outside the Ren family and should be supported. Shu Fang heard rumors that Shen Cuixi and Ren Xuetang had fallen out, and that the Ren family and Ren Xuetang would no longer support Shen Cuixi. Shen Cuixi clarified that she was intentionally creating distance and asked Shu Fang and Ren Rufeng not to visit Jinxi Fang often.
Shu Fang and Ren Rufeng assumed Shen Cuixi would eventually return to the Ren family, perhaps after a similar seven-year separation as Ren Xuetang. Shen Cuixi didn't elaborate, simply asking them not to interfere with Jinxi Fang's affairs. Ru Yi accompanied Zeng Baoqin to burn incense. Zeng Baoqin asked Ru Yi if she had seen Shu Yan, who had previously begged Zeng Baoqin to arrange for Ru Yi to marry him.
Ru Yi admitted she used to like Shu Yan, but her feelings weren't as strong now. Ru Yi went to the stream to catch fish, succeeding in catching one, but was disturbed by a scholar named Weng Jin, who scared the fish away. Weng Jin, seeing her without shoes, entered the water to help Ru Yi catch fish, but he fell. Ru Yi noticed a wound on Weng Jin's forehead and instinctively helped him.
Weng Jin developed affection for Ru Yi, introduced himself as unmarried, and expressed his desire to marry her, but Ru Yi didn't accept. Weng Jin later spoke about Ru Yi with other scholars, and they ridiculed him for being secluded with books and unaware of Ru Yi's background, stating she was the illegitimate child of a "lehu" (musician family) and that marrying such a woman would be shameful.
Weng Jin, angered, rebuked them for being hypocritical gentlemen who gossiped about women, damaging their reputation, and refused to associate with them any longer. Fu's mother was preparing to leave Xiao Lan and return home. Xiao Lan urged her mother, who had considerable skills in kesi (silk tapestry), not to return and suffer abuse, but her mother insisted on staying with her husband, as she was accustomed to it.
She cautioned Xiao Lan to listen to Shen Cuixi regarding marriage and only marry with Shen Cuixi's approval. Upon returning home, Fu's mother was beaten by Ren Fu. Xiao Lan secretly followed her mother home and witnessed the beating, feeling immense pain.
On her way back to Jinxi Fang, Xiao Lan passed Qingyue Fang, and Zeng Baoqin, seeing Xiao Lan's expression, guessed she knew about Fu's mother being beaten, an event known throughout the Ren household, though Fu's mother believed she could conceal it. Zeng Baoqin offered a plan to prevent Ren Fu from beating Fu's mother and whispered it to Xiao Lan. Ren Fu hired some thugs to harass and insult Xiao Lan at Jinxi Fang.
Hearing of the trouble at Jinxi Fang, Ren Xuetang became worried about Shen Cuixi and rushed to help. Zeng Baoqin advised Ren Xuetang to let Shen Cuixi handle the situation herself, or others would say Jinxi Fang was still backed by the Ren family, undermining Shen Cuixi's independence. Ren Xuetang remained unconvinced and insisted on going to Jinxi Fang, where he was surprised to see the magistrate ordering the thugs to be beaten.
Shen Cuixi had personally appealed to the magistrate to take action for the sake of Suzhou's ten thousand weaving households. The magistrate personally inscribed a signboard for Jinxi Fang, ensuring its future security. Xiao Lan returned home, asked her mother to sharpen a kitchen knife, and deliberately told a story to frighten her father, intending to deter him from further abuse. As a result, Ren Fu became frightened. Cao Wenbin and his wife, having been exiled and later pardoned, returned and were searching for their daughter, Yao Niang, who was sold into a brothel.
Episode 32 Recap
Cao Yaoniang was sold into a brothel. Her father, Cao Wenbin, discovered her whereabouts but deliberately concealed this information from his wife. He then disguised himself as a kitchen helper among the brothel staff, managing to see Yaoniang from afar. He overheard her words and, adhering to old customs, mistakenly believed she had abandoned her reputation for the sake of survival. Consequently, he put poison into food intended for the brothel women.
A cat ate a pastry from the table and was accidentally poisoned to death. The brothel Madam sought to find the poisoner. Yaoniang recognized her father among the staff. She volunteered to help solve the case, using the investigation as an excuse to meet privately with three suspected individuals, including her father.
In a private room, Cao Wenbin brought up the Cao family ancestral rules, stressing that Yaoniang, having been sold into a lowly status, would never be able to leave the brothel. He was deeply concerned about her damaged reputation, believing it was more important than anything. Yaoniang, however, felt that as long as she stayed within the brothel, she wouldn't hear what people outside said.
Suddenly, Cao Wenbin produced a knife, demanding Yaoniang disfigure herself by cutting her own face twice. He argued that only by doing so could she preserve her status and innocence, and he promised to redeem her once the scandal subsided. Yaoniang found this request absurd and outrageous, asking for a night to consider.
When others waited outside for an update, Yaoniang claimed Cao Wenbin was very suspicious and should be held overnight to suffer and be interrogated again the next day. After thinking all night, Yaoniang made up her mind the following morning. She decisively refused her father's disfigurement request, kneeling to bid him farewell and asking him to inform her mother that she no longer considered herself her daughter.
Yaoniang explicitly stated she would neither disfigure herself nor die, but instead would live beautifully within the brothel. Accusing Cao Wenbin of disrespect, she ordered her people to beat him severely and then had him thrown out of the brothel. Yaoniang casually dismissed the Madam with an excuse, closing the matter. Cao Wenbin returned home and reported to his father that Cao Yaoniang could not return. His wife, Cao Furen, noticed Cao Wenbin's abnormal behavior and secretly followed him.
She observed him bribing someone to place a box of rouge on Yaoniang's dressing table in the brothel. After Cao Wenbin left, Cao Furen swiftly exchanged the rouge box with her own silver bracelet. Distraught, Cao Furen wandered the streets and eventually arrived at Jinxi Fang, where Xiao Lan led her inside. Cao Furen recalled her past, feeling that her lifelong adherence to rules and etiquette seemed ironic given her husband's actions.
She was deeply disappointed by Cao Wenbin's clear desire to see Yaoniang dead. She told Cao Wenbin that she had bought a coffin and a burial plot for Yaoniang, hoping she could rest in peace, as a woman who had lost her honor would not be tolerated by rules and etiquette. Believing she still upheld proper conduct, Cao Wenbin's attitude instantly transformed; he smiled and embraced his wife.
Cao Furen then asked Shen Cuixi for help to check on Yaoniang, and Shen Cuixi, being kind, agreed despite any past grievances. Meanwhile, the brothel Madam visited the Ren family's silk workshop, Qingyue Fang, to purchase fabrics for new clothes for the girls. While being received by Zeng Baoqin, the Madam gossiped about the incident.
She recounted how an official father had ruined his own daughter by getting her sold into a brothel, then sneaked in, handed her a knife, and demanded she disfigure herself, which she found infuriating. However, she also mentioned that the girl, in a rage, ordered her people to beat her own father severely and declared that she would entertain guests proudly with her family's name.
Zeng Baoqin, who had a similar past experience, empathized deeply with the girl and guessed she was likely Cao Wenbin's daughter. The Madam, impressed by the girl's strong will, decided to teach her well to become Suzhou's top courtesan. Later, Shen Cuixi, disguised as an embroiderer—a common person—entered the brothel to measure the girls for their new clothes. She actively took Cao Yaoniang's measurements.
Yaoniang recognized Shen Cuixi but mistakenly thought she was there to harm her, finding it undignified for the esteemed Shen Niangzi of Jinxi Fang to come to a brothel in such a disguise. Shen Cuixi clarified that she was entrusted by Cao Furen to visit her. Separately, Weng Jin scaled the wall of the Ren mansion and saw Ru Yi outside. He called out to her, noting it was their second meeting, and brought her favorite osmanthus cake. Ru Yi was touched but then remembered Shu Yan had also given her osmanthus cake, which suddenly made her feel upset. She turned and left.
Episode 33 Recap
Shen Cuixi, disguised as an ordinary person, measured clothes for a courtesan named Cao Yaoniang. Cao Yaoniang was initially distrustful but softened her tone upon the mention of Madam Cao. Having learned seductive techniques in the brothel, Cao Yaoniang asked Shen Cuixi to convey to Madam Cao that she was doing well. Shen Cuixi later inquired about Zeng Baoqin's time in the brothel. Zeng Baoqin recounted the tragic story of her personal maid, Wuer.
Wuer, who had studied and learned to read with Zeng Baoqin since childhood and was a well-behaved girl, was beaten to death by the brothel madam for refusing to conform after Zeng Baoqin was sold into the establishment. Realizing that it was not the fault of these women to fall into such a life, Shen Cuixi resolved to rescue Cao Yaoniang.
Zeng Baoqin expressed concern, noting that the Cao family had previously harmed Shen Cuixi, and that saving an imperial courtesan was not easy. The endeavor would face not only legal strictures but also deep-seated societal prejudices. However, Shen Cuixi's nature dictated that she would not abandon her goal due to difficulties, declaring that even mountains of swords and seas of fire would not deter her.
Madam Cao, now fully awakened, sought out Shen Cuixi, expressing her hatred for restrictive rules and rites. She vowed to protect Yaoniang, stating that she would never allow anyone to harm her daughter, fearing Yaoniang might suffer under a cruel mother-in-law if married. Madam Cao felt that a mother's purpose was to protect her child. Shen Cuixi considered consulting experienced lawyers to find a way to save Yaoniang.
Shu Fang informed Shen Cuixi of two methods: either persuade the Emperor to personally issue a decree releasing Yaoniang, or wait for the matter to fade from imperial memory before finding a way to rescue her, otherwise Yaoniang could never leave.
Although Shu Fang initially tried to dissuade Shen Cuixi from this dangerous path, she ultimately expressed full support for Shen Cuixi's decision, offering to help with inquiries, though Shen Cuixi believed it was inappropriate for Shu Fang, as Ren Xuetang's second wife, to act publicly. Ren Rufeng later tried to cheer up an unhappy Shu Fang. Meanwhile, Ong Jin proactively visited the Ren family, seeking to meet Zeng Baoqin.
Shu Yan urgently reported that a scholar named Ong wished to see Ren Xuetang. Ong Jin then requested to see Zeng Baoqin, asking her to bring Ru Yi to the front hall, a request that secretly delighted Ru Yi. This was Ong Jin's third meeting with Ru Yi, and he asked her if she remembered her promise to him. Ru Yi was very shy. Ong Jin directly proposed marriage to Zeng Baoqin, detailing his family's situation.
Zeng Baoqin questioned why his parents had not come to propose, but Ong Jin believed his personal decision was paramount and his parents would be convinced. Just then, Madam Ong arrived, scolding Ong Jin for his "wild talk" and "willful behavior," declaring that a woman of Ru Yi's background would disgrace the Ong family. Zeng Baoqin, displeased by their casual disparagement of Ru Yi, intervened to defend her, before Madam Ong pulled Ong Jin away from the Ren family.
Shu Yan, stunned by Ong Jin's proposal, stood by, unable to accept the situation. He watched Ru Yi from afar but did not approach her, feeling that Ong Jin came from a prominent family while he was merely a servant of the Ren household, and he did not want to put Ru Yi in a difficult position, wishing only for her happiness.
Ren Xuetang encouraged Shu Yan to speak with Ru Yi, suggesting there might still be a chance, but Shu Yan did not go. Upon returning home, Ong Jin was severely beaten by his father with ten planks for his actions, but his determination to marry Ru Yi remained unchanged. Despite his injuries, he vowed to propose again once he recovered. Three days passed, and Ong Jin had not returned, leading Ren Xuetang to believe he would not.
Zeng Baoqin, however, thought that Ru Yi would not marry Shu Yan regardless, emphasizing that marriage required mutual affection, implicitly suggesting she would consent if Ong Jin returned. Still not fully recovered from his injuries, Ong Jin secretly snuck out at night, a move his mother had anticipated. He once again climbed the Ren family wall, calling Ru Yi's name. Moved by his unwavering persistence, Ru Yi agreed to marry him, and Ong Jin promised he would convince his parents.
When he returned home, he found his mother in his room. Ong Jin pleaded with her, acting spoiled, and to his surprise, Madam Ong relented and agreed to his proposal. The following day, Madam Ong, accompanied by Ong Jin, personally arrived at the Ren family with betrothal gifts to formally propose marriage to Ru Yi.
Zeng Baoqin, recalling her first meeting with Ru Yi where she had promised to treat her like a younger sister and protect her throughout her life, was deeply moved, preparing a generous dowry for Ru Yi, who felt as though she were dreaming. Zeng Baoqin asked Ru Yi to confirm her feelings and explain her choice of Ong Jin over Shu Yan.
Ru Yi admitted that her initial impression of both Shu Yan and Ong Jin was one of joy and liking. However, she realized they were different: Shu Yan always remained in place, expecting her to approach him and seemed focused solely on rules, whereas Ong Jin reciprocated her feelings, actively approaching her, with only her in his eyes. This mutual closeness and the secure feeling of being loved were something Shu Yan could never provide.
Episode 34 Recap
Ru Yi prepared for her wedding to Weng Jin, causing sadness for Shu Yan, who silently observed from outside her room, a fact noticed by Zeng Baoqin. After Ru Yi married Weng Jin, a different young woman named Ji Xiang became Zeng Baoqin's maid. Zeng Baoqin observed that Ji Xiang had feelings for Shu Yan and believed Ji Xiang was a suitable match for him, contrasting with Ru Yi's independent nature.
Shu Yan and Ji Xiang grew close, with Shu Yan teaching her to read. Ji Xiang gave Shu Yan an embroidered pouch, and Shu Yan advised her not to give pouches casually and to seek a responsible husband. Meanwhile, Xiao Lan thanked Zeng Baoqin for previous advice, which had resulted in Ren Fu no longer beating her mother.
Xiao Lan expressed a desire to live like Shen Cuixi, remaining unmarried for life, out of fear that her own marriage might lead to unhappiness similar to her mother's. Zeng Baoqin, understanding Xiao Lan's fear of future hypotheticals, encouraged her not to abandon the pursuit of her own happiness, leading Xiao Lan to reconsider her worries. The Ren family's business, Qingyuefang, faced severe challenges.
Their kèsi techniques had become widely known, and other workshops were imitating their patterns, offering them at a lower price, causing customers to flock elsewhere and leaving Qingyuefang deserted. Shu Fang complained to Ren Rufeng that Qingyuefang, a century-old brand, struggled to compete with the constant introduction of new patterns by other workshops.
She worried that introducing new patterns might alienate existing customers, while not innovating would lose new ones, leading to a complete loss of business and even an inability to pay workers. Ren Rufeng lamented Shen Cuixi's absence, describing her as a stabilizing force for the workshop. Zeng Baoqin, overhearing their concerns, decided to take action, retrieving a new technique album that Shen Cuixi had left behind.
Zeng Baoqin was deeply worried about the business decline and initially considered discussing it with Ren Xuetang, but ultimately decided to shoulder the burden herself. She later approached Ren Xuetang to talk about technique innovation but left without speaking when she saw him studying with Xiu Shan. Ren Xuetang believed Zeng Baoqin, being a clever person, would manage.
The next day, ahead of payday, a large group of weavers, having heard rumors about delayed wages, demanded their pay from Ren Rufeng and Shu Fang, threatening to leave Qingyuefang if not paid immediately. Zeng Baoqin intervened decisively, presenting silver notes. She handed them to Ren Rufeng, instructing him to pay the workers punctually the following day, neither early nor late, emphasizing that the Ren family workshop was not a charity.
She warned the weavers that the Ren family had never defaulted on wages in three generations and, while overlooking this first incident of disruption, would report any future disturbances to the guild, effectively blacklisting them from other Suzhou workshops. The weavers, though departing, voiced their underlying concern that the Ren family was no longer under Shen Cuixi’s management, which made them uneasy.
Ren Rufeng conveyed these anxieties to Ren Xuetang, who reassured him, highlighting Zeng Baoqin's significant efforts in developing new patterns and criticizing Ren Rufeng and others for still referring to Zeng Baoqin as a "little sister-in-law" or "little madam" instead of acknowledging and supporting her as the Ren family's current head mistress.
Ren Xuetang stated that Zeng Baoqin's dedication to style and patterns was no less than Shen Cuixi's, but the market had simply grown accustomed to Shen Cuixi's style over the past decade. He questioned if the Ren family should always seek Shen Cuixi's help during crises, urging support for Zeng Baoqin's own ideas rather than suggesting shortcuts. Meanwhile, Cao Wenbin continued his malevolent plans against Yao Niang, attempting to harm her again with poisoned rouge.
He believed that ruining a woman's purity and reputation was the best choice for her, and warned Cao Furen that if she continued to interfere, he would indeed kill Yao Niang. Cao Furen tried to stop him but was pushed to the ground and berated for forgetting her education. In despair, Yao Niang decided to give up on herself, planning to start receiving clients on the fifteenth of the next month.
She bitterly questioned her unfair fate, smashing a mirror while looking at her reflection. At the same time, the Governor of Suzhou approached Shen Cuixi, entrusting her with a significant task. The Empress Dowager, having heard of Suzhou kèsi's reputation as the best in the world, inspired the Emperor to host a nationwide weaving competition in the capital to crown the "number one kèsi in the world."
The Governor hoped Shen Cuixi would participate and win this prestigious title, bringing honor to Suzhou's people and herself, potentially earning Jinxiu Workshop a substantial reward from the Empress Dowager. Shen Cuixi agreed, seeing this as an opportunity to save Yao Niang. Fu Shen informed Cao Furen that Shen Cuixi's journey to Beijing for the competition was partly to rescue Yao Niang, urging Cao Furen to patiently await good news.
Before the competition, Cao Furen invited Cao Wenbin for a drink and to gaze at the moon on a boat. She had secretly poisoned the wine, intending for them to die together to atone for their sins. They both perished on the boat. The next day, Fu Shen urgently delivered Cao Furen's last letter to Shen Cuixi.
In her dying wish, Cao Furen entrusted Yao Niang to Shen Cuixi's care, stating her belief that Yao Niang would have no future if Cao Wenbin remained alive. She expressed her resolve to protect her child from any harm, ensuring Yao Niang's lifelong peace, even if not happiness, and her willingness to pay any price, including her own life, for this protection. Shen Cuixi sighed after reading the letter, deeply moved by Cao Furen's ultimate sacrifice.
Shen Cuixi then visited Yao Niang at the courtesan house, much to Yao Niang's surprise. As Shen Cuixi prepared for the competition, her disciples questioned associating with Yao Niang, whom their grandmother had labeled a bad person. Shen Cuixi taught them that she founded Jinxiu Workshop and taught kèsi not to foster prejudice, but to inspire hope for better lives for all girls like Yao Niang.
For her part, Zeng Baoqin also prepared for the skill competition, aiming to win first place to restore the Ren family's prestige and prove her own capabilities. Ren Xuetang supported her by providing a challenging "character design" for her competition sample, acknowledging that kèsi with such designs was difficult but could be exceptionally outstanding. Zeng Baoqin playfully asked Ren Xuetang who would win if both she and Shen Cuixi competed. Ren Xuetang was momentarily at a loss for words, leading Zeng Baoqin to laugh and clarify that she was only joking.
Episode 35 (Ending) Recap
Shen Cuixi went to the brothel and persuaded the madam to temporarily keep Cao Yaoniang from receiving guests. She then visited Yaoniang, delivering the tragic news that Madam Cao and Cao Wenbin had perished together. Shen Cuixi showed Yaoniang a letter from Madam Cao, explaining her mother's sacrifice to save her, and promised to find a way to rescue Yaoniang, urging Yaoniang not to make hasty decisions and to trust her efforts.
Meanwhile, Zeng Baoqin, representing Qingyue Workshop, prepared to travel to the capital for the Imperial Weaving Competition, bidding farewell to Ren Xuetang and Xiushan. Ren Rufeng expressed confusion and concern, questioning why Ren Xuetang didn't stop either Shen Cuixi or Zeng Baoqin, fearing they might engage in a mutually destructive rivalry. Ren Xuetang explained that women should control their own destinies and make their own choices, and their role was to wait for the outcome.
Upon their arrival in the capital, the Imperial Weaving Competition officially began. Zeng Baoqin used a character design, while Shen Cuixi, representing Jinxi Workshop, planned a Hundred Blessings Scroll. During the intense competition, Zeng Baoqin's weaving machine suddenly broke. She requested a new one, but the official suggested she withdraw, believing she couldn't finish in the allotted time.
Shen Cuixi intervened, proposing that she and Zeng Baoqin co-weave the Hundred Blessings Scroll, arguing that integrating longevity into it would create an "Integrated Blessing and Longevity Scroll," which would be a more auspicious tribute for a birthday celebration, demonstrating enhanced health and longevity. The official approved their joint effort. After the competition, the Empress Dowager reviewed the woven pieces.
She found many works unoriginal, simply celebrating birthdays, but was captivated by the creativity of Shen Cuixi and Zeng Baoqin's co-woven Integrated Blessing and Longevity Scroll. She questioned why they co-wove for a single first-place prize, to which Shen Cuixi replied it was to showcase the skills of weavers. The Empress Dowager declared their collaborative piece first place and granted each woman a wish.
Zeng Baoqin wished for the Empress Dowager to personally inscribe a plaque for Qingyue Workshop, both to enhance its prestige and to serve as a daily reminder for her to continuously refine her skills, rather than succumbing to pride. Shen Cuixi wished for the Empress Dowager to pardon Cao Yaoniang, daughter of Cao Wenbin, and allow her to live a respectable life.
Shen Cuixi elaborated that she hoped to make an exception for Yaoniang to see if women like her, who are burdened by family disgrace, could find a new path, thereby offering hope to all helpless women whose fates are unfairly tied to men's actions. The Empress Dowager, empathizing as a woman herself, granted both wishes. Following the Empress Dowager's decree, a plaque personally inscribed by the Empress Dowager was proudly displayed at Qingyue Workshop.
Zeng Baoqin remarked on Shen Cuixi's daring, to which Shen Cuixi responded that the Empress Dowager, being a woman, would naturally empathize. Soon after, Shen Cuixi brought Cao Yaoniang to Jinxi Workshop. She instructed her disciples that Yaoniang was an innocent woman who should not be punished for the crimes of others. When disciples expressed concern that Yaoniang might be too delicate for kesi, Yaoniang knelt, vowed to diligently learn the craft, and never betray Shen Cuixi's kindness.
Shen Cuixi explained that she founded Jinxi Workshop to empower women with skills, enabling them to earn money and gain respect, thereby escaping abuse from their gambling husbands, harsh in-laws, or unreasonable parents. Her aim was to allow women to live fearlessly, choose their own desired lives, and have their own homes. Further demonstrating her independence, Ren Xuetang removed Shen Cuixi's "Ren family" title from a stele, and Shen Cuixi personally inscribed her own name, asserting her autonomy.
When a skilled weaver from Jinxi Workshop left to marry in Huzhou, Yaoniang expressed regret, suggesting the departing weaver could have inherited Shen Cuixi's legacy. Shen Cuixi reiterated that marriage was the woman's own choice, irrelevant to her family. In the late Qing Dynasty, the burgeoning Jiangnan kesi weaving industry facilitated the participation of many female weavers and embroiderers in social production.
This elevated their economic and social standing, allowing them to gradually shed their status as dependents or commodities, with women engaging in business throughout Suzhou, earning admiration rather than gossip. Shen Cuixi, having evolved into "Wei Lianggong" and a better version of herself through her continuous efforts, resolved to embark on a journey to travel the world and propagate kesi techniques. Before her departure, she visited Wei Lianggong's tomb to bid him farewell. Her carriage departed, signifying the continuation of her grand story.
