Moonshine and Valentine Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Moonshine and Valentine Synopsis
The intern reporter, Guan Pipi, received a special assignment to interview cultural relics expert Helan Jingting. This mysterious and unpredictable “jade master” has never appeared in public before.
In order to conquer him, Pippi tried every possible way but was surprised by his unbelievable habits.
He feeds on flowers, loves “moonlight baths”, is blind during the day, has an excellent vision at night, and has only three heartbeats per minute, and claims to be from an alien planet, a silicon-based life form that is different from Earth’s carbon-based life.
Pippi thought he was being teased and left in anger.
The succession of blows once left her in mourning. Her boyfriend and best friend betrayed her one after another, Pipi felt being abandoned by the world. Helan Jingting was the only one who stayed by her side and gave her warmth. Pipi gradually dropped her guard and learned about the world of the alien planet where Helan is.
After several twists and turns, they finally broke through the shackles of fate and came together. However, the internal strife of Helan’s planet soon involved them.
In order to protect each other, they competed to give everything they have, only wishing that the other can spend this life safely!
Moonshine and Valentine Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Huiyan's parents anxiously discussed their young daughter's impending marriage. Her mother worried it was too soon, but her father focused on the substantial cash gift offered by the wealthy family, saying she would have to marry eventually. They found it strange that the family had only inquired about Huiyan's birthdate and time, even insisting on a midwife's verification, before proposing. Suddenly, a rainbow rain began, signaling a fox is getting married.
Huiyan, dressed in a red bridal gown, found herself inside a swaying palanquin, carried amidst celebratory drumming to meet a groom she had never seen. When she arrived, she found herself with a blind man. He apologized for her discomfort, admitting he felt the same. He explained that their fathers had decided they wouldn't marry immediately, and he personally didn't wish to marry someone he didn't know, but custom dictated they spend the night together.
He then asked her to eat something, but she refused, wanting to go home. He insisted he would wait all night until she ate. Huiyan, realizing he was truly blind, asked about his eyesight. He revealed his father told him his eyes would heal one day, allowing him to see in moonshine. He promised that once he could see, he would look for her to verify her beauty.
He added that because of her, he could now see the world at night and vowed to keep searching for her and stay by her side. Guan Pipi jolted awake at two in the morning, the recurring dream having tormented her for over sixteen hundred days. The familiar yet unknown figures left her questioning their identities and the dream's meaning, ultimately making her question who she truly was.
Long ago, a planet in distant outer space, nearly identical to Earth, housed an advanced alien civilization known as the Fox Clan. When their galaxy faced collapse, they embarked on spaceships, eventually migrating to various planets, with one group settling on Earth. To adapt, the Fox Clan evolved to appear human, gradually integrating into human society. However, interactions between humans and the Fox Clan were often fraught with misunderstanding.
In the Tang Dynasty, Dai Fu, a press corrector, was particularly fascinated by tales of human-fox romance, believing love transcended all boundaries. After his death, his son compiled his stories into a book called "Guang Yi Ji", which became widely popular. As these stories spread, embellished by storytellers, human curiosity about the Fox Clan slowly turned into fear. Recognizing the growing hostility, the Fox Clan learned to conceal their identities and blend seamlessly into the human world.
He Lanxi, also known as Jingting, was a fox over nine hundred years old, hailing from the distant Sky Fox Star. For centuries, he had served as the Right Priest of the Fox Clan, second only to their leader. Though Earth felt both familiar and strange, its bustling days and vibrant nights lacked the serene beauty of his homeland, where moonlight was like intoxicating wine and life flourished quietly.
He was haunted by a thousand-year-old curse and a heartbreaking past that had led him to break with his own family, enduring a bad name. Yet, he never regretted his choices, as everything he did was for a specific girl, for whom he would sacrifice anything, even his life, believing death might be his ultimate release.
Upon his return to Earth, his attendants, Xiu Xian and Kuanyong, had already prepared a new residence and a new identity for him – that of an antique collector. They also meticulously gathered all available information about Guan Pipi, the girl who was the reincarnation of Huiyan. They confirmed that the Pearl of Charm had been located in the possession of an antique collector and would be exhibited as a non-sale item at an upcoming auction.
Guan Pipi, the reborn Huiyan, had a simple, optimistic personality. She was an intern at a newspaper publishing company, performing basic tasks, a contrast to her past life. She had attended a private primary school before enrolling in a technical college. Her parents ran a small barbershop, providing a modest income. Pipi's closest friend since middle school was Tian Xin, a decisive person who significantly influenced Pipi's character.
She was also good friends with Xin Xiaoju, a classmate from technical college who worked at a cafe. Pipi's boyfriend and the person she most admired was Tao Jialin, a former classmate. Upon reviewing these details, He Lanxi declared that Tao Jialin would soon vanish from Pipi’s world. One afternoon, Pipi took a break to have lunch with Tao Jialin and Tian Xin. During their meal, Jialin expressed his frustration about needing a recommendation letter to pursue a Ph. D.
with Mathew Chess at Stanford. He hoped Professor Li from the 8th department, a former student of Mathew Chess, could provide one, but Professor Li had already written letters for two graduates and found issues with Jialin's thesis. Pipi tried to encourage him, even attempting to sew a large tear in his shirt with red thread, much to his amusement.
Pipi felt a growing distance between them; Jialin had always excelled, graduating from a top university and pursuing graduate studies, while she had struggled, attended a technical college, and was still an intern. Tian Xin suggested he approach Professor Liao from the National Academy of Sciences, a Stanford graduate whose word carried more weight. Feeling overwhelmed by the widening gap, Pipi made an excuse about work at the newspaper company and left the lunch early.
True to her word as a good friend, Tian Xin secretly approached Professor Liao on Tao Jialin's behalf. With impeccable poise and a sincere, almost pleading expression, she presented herself as a student deeply passionate about AI research, torn between pursuing further studies and entering the workforce, feeling it would be a pity to abandon her passion. Professor Liao, a Stanford alumnus himself, was impressed by her dedication and signed the recommendation letter for Tao Jialin.
Jialin was grateful but also worried. He wondered if this opportunity would further widen the geographical distance between him and Pipi. Tian Xin confessed she didn't even know what discrete mathematics was, revealing her performance was just good acting from her time in the music club, much to Jialin's surprise. Back at the newspaper office, Pipi faced coldness from her senior colleague, Wang Xuan, who dismissed her attempts to work and instead sent her to buy coffee for everyone.
Feeling despondent, Pipi confided in Xin Xiaoju at the cafe about her growing insecurity regarding Tao Jialin. She compared their academic and career trajectories: Jialin, always top of his class and now pursuing a Ph. D. at Stanford, versus her, struggling in high school, attending a technical college, and still an intern. Xin Xiaoju bluntly suggested she either break up with him or work harder to close the gap.
As Pipi left the cafe, she encountered He Lanxi, who she initially mistook for a beggar. He clarified the misunderstanding and politely asked her to guide his blind self to the subway station. As they walked, a thief suddenly snatched Pipi's purse. While Pipi froze for a moment, He Lanxi's attendants, Xiu Xian and Kuanyong, dramatically arrived in a luxurious car.
They swiftly pulled Pipi and He Lanxi into the vehicle and embarked on a high-speed chase through the streets, bickering comically the entire time. He Lanxi quietly ensured Pipi's safety amidst the chaos. After a thrilling pursuit, they cornered the thief, recovering Pipi's wallet and all its contents. Though her belongings were safe, Pipi was utterly terrified by the unexpected and dangerous experience. He Lanxi then gave Pipi his number, asking her to call if she ever needed anything.
With their mission accomplished and their car severely damaged, Xiu Xian and Kuanyong suggested a walk, much to He Lanxi's chagrin. Later, at home, Pipi's mother pressed her to discuss marriage with Tao Jialin before he left for abroad, ideally in front of his parents. Pipi resisted, believing Jialin should initiate such a serious conversation. Her mother then urged Pipi’s father to speak with Jialin's father, President Tao, who had been a former colleague.
However, Pipi's father hesitated, feeling the vast status difference now that Jialin's father was a "president" while he was just a former factory worker. When Pipi tried to borrow money from her mother for Jialin's birthday gift, her mother refused, suggesting homemade bean paste as a more heartfelt option and chiding Pipi for still asking for money despite having a job.
Pipi, undeterred, resolved to work harder and narrow the perceived gap between herself and Tao Jialin, believing she could change her own destiny. Meanwhile, He Lanxi reflected deeply on his own identity and past. He reiterated his nine-hundred-year-old existence as a fox from the Sky Fox Star and his role as the Right Priest. He recalled his multiple visits to Earth, noting its vibrant energy but lamenting its lack of tranquility compared to his homeland.
He spoke of the thousand-year curse and a profoundly painful past that had once led him to break with his family, accepting a bad reputation without regret. His every action was for "her," and he vowed to pay any price, even his own life, for her sake, considering death perhaps his ultimate liberation.
He mused that in every person's life, even an ordinary one, there is a special individual whose appearance immediately signals a profound change, for better or worse, altering the course of one's entire life. He silently yearned, "I miss you so much."
Episode 2 Recap
Pipi decided to buy a birthday gift for her boyfriend, Jialin, visiting a store where he frequently shopped. Despite the prices being far beyond her budget, she believed Jialin deserved the best. She found a simple white shirt that would nearly drain her savings but was determined to buy it. While struggling to determine Jialin's size, Pipi was surprised to see Helan Jingting, the blind man she had recently encountered.
The store assistant noted that Helan Jingting's build was similar to Pipi's description of Jialin and suggested he try on the shirt. Though initially hesitant, Pipi accepted his offer. As she helped him with the buttons, she fumbled and fastened them incorrectly. Helan Jingting then asked what kind of person Jialin was to receive such a thoughtful and expensive gift. Pipi enthusiastically described her boyfriend as an excellent person, superior to her in every way.
When Pipi attempted to pay, her cards were declined. She asked for a discount or an installment plan, but the assistant suggested she withdraw cash from a nearby ATM. As Pipi left to get the money, Helan Jingting intervened and purchased all available sizes of the white shirt for himself.
When Pipi returned and found out, she tried to repay him for what she thought was one shirt, explaining that it was a birthday present for her very important boyfriend and that she wanted to buy it herself as a token of her sincere feelings. Helan Jingting then revealed the store was now completely out of stock. Furious, Pipi yelled at him. He calmly reminded her not to shout at a blind man, as it could damage his hearing.
When he asked for her name, she retorted with a phrase that sounds like "None of your business" in Chinese. Amused, Helan Jingting deduced her surname was Guan. Pipi corrected him, stating her full name was Guan Pipi, and commented on four-character names. He then clarified his own name, Helan Jingting, explaining that Helan is a compound surname.
Pipi followed him outside to apologize for her outburst and pleaded with him to sell her one of the shirts, explaining that Jialin was going abroad soon. Helan Jingting coldly pulled his hand away, asking if he knew her. In her distress, Pipi accidentally knocked off his dark glasses. She was mesmerized by his unusual, solid blue eyes, which lacked whites. A memory flashed in her mind of a handsome young man with similar eyes holding an apple.
Helan Jingting quickly retrieved his glasses and left abruptly. Later, Xiu Xian brought new glasses to Helan Jingting’s residence, advising him to always wear them outside to prevent humans from being harmed by his eyes. Helan Jingting revealed that Pipi had seen his eyes and was likely feeling unwell as a result.
He had Xiu Xian prepare an apple infused with his blood to cure her, but then decided to delay its delivery, wanting to let her "suffer a little more." Xiu Xian later remarked to Kuanyong that Helan Jingting was acting childishly, but Kuanyong noted it was understandable, as it was the first time he had been jealous in a thousand years. The next morning, Pipi was visibly ill, vomiting repeatedly at work.
During a meeting about potential stories, Pipi's colleagues speculated about the mysterious president of Ceil Group, Qian Hua, who had recently purchased a luxurious villa reportedly inhabited by a man. While they theorized about secret lovers or family drama, Pipi suggested Qian Hua might simply be providing a home for a close friend. Her boss, Qing Tan, found the idea interesting. Pipi later met her friend Xiaoju at a coffee shop.
Xiu Xian and Kuanyong arrived, finding Pipi looking very unwell. Introducing Kuanyong as a doctor, they offered her the medicated apple, claiming it could instantly cure her. Suspicious after taking many ineffective medicines, Pipi mistook them for pyramid scheme salespeople. She refused the apple, stating she disliked them. Whispering to Xiaoju that the men were strange friends of the "weirdo from yesterday," she asked her friend for cover and slipped away, leaving the apple behind.
Despite her worsening pain, Pipi attended Jialin's birthday dinner, bringing only a jar of her mother's homemade broad-bean sauce. Jialin's parents, who clearly favored another guest, Tian Xin, gave Pipi a cold reception. When Tian Xin arrived with an expensive bottle of wine, the atmosphere brightened instantly. During dinner, Jialin's mother lavishly praised Tian Xin's accomplishments and connections, subtly belittling Pipi. Jialin's attempts to defend Pipi were dismissed.
After Jialin blew out his birthday candles, Tian Xin discreetly gave Pipi the expensive shirt she had bought, allowing Pipi to present it to Jialin as her own gift. Jialin accepted it with a smile, maintaining a harmonious facade. As the party ended, Tian Xin left, and Jialin's mother urged him to see her off.
Outside, Tian Xin clarified to Jialin that the shirt was Pipi's idea and that she had only helped deliver it, advising him to go back to Pipi. Meanwhile, Pipi, overwhelmed by her illness, rushed to the bathroom. Hearing this, Jialin's mother worried Pipi might stay overnight and pressed Jialin to make sure she left. Though reluctant, Jialin complied. Understanding the situation, Pipi insisted she was fine and left alone, taking a bus home.
The episode concluded with a narration on the nature of gifts: they are tangible expressions of feelings too difficult to convey. While a gift helps the recipient understand the giver’s intentions, the recipient might not realize its true meaning at the moment, only to discover much later that they had completely missed the sentiment behind it.
Episode 3 Recap
The Mode magazine, where Pipi works, seeks a lucrative story, with their focus landing on Tushan Qianhua, an alluring, exceptionally beautiful woman who is a modern independent figure with assets valued in the hundreds of millions. She runs a successful beauty and skincare business, is single, and comes from a prominent family, yet has maintained a clean record without a single scandal for years.
Rumors suggest a mysterious man resides in her secluded home, but his identity remains unknown to the public. What most don't realize is that Qianhua is a noble member of the Fox Clan, and the mysterious man is her Priest, Jingting, a man she has loved for a thousand years. The challenging task of interviewing Qianhua falls to Wang Xuan. Full of arrogance and self-importance, Wang Xuan attempts to deceive Qianhua by using the fake name Zhang Nan.
However, Qianhua mercilessly exposes her deceit, scolding her for her lack of intellect and attacking her for her malicious heart. When Wang Xuan, posing as a loyal customer, asks about the unique charm of Qianhua’s brand, Qianhua notes Wang Xuan isn't wearing any of their products. She then highlights the extensive animal testing involved in the production of Wang Xuan's lipstick, describing the suffering of mice, rabbits, and monkeys sacrificed for her "not-so-pretty face."
Qianhua then reveals Wang Xuan's real name, confirming her identity was investigated in advance. As a parting gesture, Qianhua has her assistant, Liu Ran, give Wang Xuan a new, animal-experiment-free lipstick, sarcastically telling her to take her "carcass" with her as she leaves. Humiliated and seething, Wang Xuan forces a smile and rushes out, brushing past Xiu Xian at the door. Xiu Xian, sent by Lord Helan, delivers an ancient map of the Fox Clan's territories to Qianhua.
Qianhua explains that the ancient texts Jingting gave her contain a language long lost, making them impossible to decipher alone. She needs the map to seek out ancient elders who have lived as hermits for thousands of years, as they might be the only ones left in the entire Fox Clan capable of understanding these texts. Xiu Xian expresses doubt about the elders' continued existence.
Qianhua tells him to inform the Priest that she will complete the task within his requested timeframe, then adds disdainfully that for future communications, Jingting should send "the other one," because he is "quieter." Xiu Xian accepts her preference with a hint of amusement. Back at the office, Wang Xuan vents her frustration, calling Qianhua a "psycho." Realizing Qianhua is an impossible target, the team decides to shift their focus to the mysterious man, Jingting.
Wang Xuan volunteers to pursue the interview, but her colleagues point out she’s already been exposed and blacklisted. The task then falls to Pipi. Late at night, Pipi perches in a tree, struggling to capture photos of her elusive subject. The person she's trying to photograph, Jingting, is already standing below, observing her peculiar movements. Jingting calls out to her.
Weakened by the lingering pain and nausea from seeing his true eyes the previous day, Pipi loses her balance and collapses into Jingting's arms. Jingting carefully places the unconscious Pipi on a bed and gently coaxes her to eat an apple. As she drifts in and out of consciousness, a familiar dream flickers: a young boy, holding an apple, enticing a girl to eat it. Soon after, Pipi regains full consciousness, her pain and discomfort having vanished.
Pipi later wanders into the courtyard and finds Jingting lying in a chair, bathed in moonlight. She watches him, musing aloud about his handsome features but noting he is blind. Jingting, having been awake, surprises her by asking how long she plans to talk. Startled, Pipi asks why he’s lying there, and he explains he’s "taking a moon bath."
He clarifies that he suffers from "day blindness," meaning he cannot see during the day, with his vision only returning after dusk. Pipi dismisses it as nonsense but thanks him for saving her. Jingting invites her to join him, suggesting the moon can help one forget their troubles. Pipi hesitantly lies down and finds it surprisingly true.
Jingting then shares that he began moonbathing when he was very young, with a beautiful girl who accompanied him when he couldn’t see at all. By the time his sight returned, she was gone. Pipi, unaware of her past connection to him, asks why they didn't add each other on WeChat. Jingting then muses that looking at the moon is like seeing into one's inner self, explaining that astrologically, the sun represents objective consciousness while the moon reflects the subconscious.
The next morning, Pipi wakes up to find Qianhua by her side. Qianhua explains that Jingting, concerned Pipi wouldn't have suitable clothes for work, asked her to bring some, as she is his only female friend. Qianhua presents Pipi with a selection of expensive, elegant dresses, which Pipi finds completely unsuitable for her personal style. Qianhua also hands Pipi a VIP invitation to an antique auction from Jingting, leaving Pipi confused.
Later, Pipi arrives at her news agency for a meeting. The auction is deemed a significant event, as it marks a rare public appearance for both Jingting and Qianhua. Wang Xuan, eager for the assignment, is confident she will be chosen. However, the leader unexpectedly assigns Pipi to the task. Wang Xuan is furious, arguing that a mere intern is not qualified.
After her persistent arguments, the leader compromises, allowing both of them to attend and work together, which still leaves Wang Xuan deeply displeased. Meanwhile, Jingting is determined to acquire a non-sale item at the auction: the Pearl of Charm. In the car, he reiterates to Xiu Xian the story of how Huiyan died during a war centuries ago and how the Pearl vanished. He insists that now that its whereabouts are confirmed, it must be retrieved.
Xiu Xian, accustomed to these repeated laments, listens as Jingting's grief over losing Huiyan resurfaces. Jingting confirms he can sense the Pearl's energy. They discuss the auction house's high security, and they decide to proceed with their plan to retrieve the Pearl that night, only to be interrupted by a security guard telling them to move their illegally parked car.
Unaware of Jialin's plans to study abroad, Pipi is engrossed in fantasies about their future, even printing out a US visa application that she cannot understand due to her limited English. Meanwhile, Jialin continues his frequent visits to Tian Xin's rehearsal room, leading their classmates to mistakenly believe they are a couple. Tian Xin secretly yearns for a deeper relationship with Jialin, but when she inadvertently sees Pipi’s visa application, she faces a painful dilemma.
Choosing friendship over love, she prioritizes her bond with Pipi and politely declines Jialin’s dinner invitation that night. Jialin, learning of Pipi's visa research, feels conflicted; he sees Pipi as a future virtuous wife but now longs for a soulmate. Later, Tian Xin agrees to translate the visa documents for Pipi and again makes an excuse to avoid dining alone with Jialin. Working tirelessly, Qianhua delves into ancient texts.
She reports to Jingting over the phone that she intends to travel north to search for old Fox Clan members who might be able to decipher the long-lost languages. As she finishes her call, a cold voice from behind asks, "For a thousand years, you've been a. . . How do they call it now? A spare tire. How does that feel?" Qianhua turns to face Zhao Song, and they exchange cold smiles as he provocatively adds, "When will you come to the North? You shall be warmly welcomed."
Episode 4 Recap
In a fleeting memory or dream, a young Helan presented a finely crafted, glowing Pearl of Charm to a young Huiyan. He told her that it was a tradition of his clan, and by wearing the Pearl, they would be together forever. At her coffee shop, Xiaoju observed her long-time friend Chen Nan and his girlfriend. The girlfriend's volatile temper often led to shouting matches and physical altercations, leaving Xiaoju heartbroken for Chen Nan.
Xiaoju often comforted him afterward and offered support like a true friend. When Chen Nan was once again broken up with, he decided to ask Xiaoju to pretend to be his new girlfriend to make his ex-girlfriend jealous and test if she still cared about him. Xiaoju, seeing it as a favor for a close friend, readily agreed, though secretly hoping to take on the role of his actual girlfriend.
Inside the cafe, Xiaoju over-acted, trying to make their apparent affection as obvious as possible. However, her heart shattered when Chen Nan's ex-girlfriend pulled him outside, and Xiaoju watched through the window as they embraced. Though tears welled up, Xiaoju forced a smile and offered Chen Nan encouragement. Later, trying to hide her profound sorrow, Xiaoju called Pipi, pretending to be lighthearted and boasting about her "success" in helping Chen Nan, but her reddened eyes betrayed her true feelings.
Meanwhile, at a high-profile Ralph's Auction, Wang Xuan, dressed impeccably, was denied entry to the VIP channel because she lacked an invitation. She grew loud and attempted to bribe and threaten the staff, but to no avail. Her anger intensified when Pipi, wearing an expensive outfit given to her by Helan, calmly presented her invitation and was promptly escorted in, drawing all attention.
Wang Xuan was left standing awkwardly outside until Kuanyong, finding her persistent shouts unbearable, eventually brought her inside using his own eligibility to bring a guest. Once seated with Pipi, Helan largely ignored Qian Hua, a beautiful and charming woman who was also present. Instead, Helan focused on Pipi, recounting romantic stories from the past, hoping to trigger Pipi's memories. Pipi, however, remained engrossed in the narratives without any sense of familiarity or recollection.
Wang Xuan, observing this, felt further marginalized and tried to needle Pipi by remarking that she was too unsophisticated for premium Brugg black caviar and only fit for street food like pan-fried buns. Helan intervened, asking a waiter to go to great lengths to find pan-fried buns for Pipi. He then praised Pipi's taste, implying that genuine preference surpassed superficial status. Wang Xuan, fuming, stormed off, fearing she might lose control and physically assault Pipi if she stayed any longer.
She then tried to approach Kuanyong, but he quickly dismissed her, giving her no chance to speak. The auction also featured the Pearl of Charm, a non-sale item loaned as the exhibition's centerpiece, which everyone yearned to see. Helan and his team were secretly preparing to acquire it. Xiu Xian and Kuanyong had meticulously mapped out the Pearl's transport routes and the series of stringent examinations it would undergo.
Their plan was for Kuanyong, due to his classical appearance, to pose as a jewelry appraiser. At the moment he received the Pearl for appraisal, he would swap it for a fake. To successfully infiltrate the appraisers' ranks, Xiu Xian needed fifteen minutes to upload Kuanyong's fake identity into the venue's computer system and knock out one of the actual appraisers. This crucial time window depended on Helan creating a distraction.
Qian Hua identified Guan Zhihao, a descendant of Guan Hanqing, as their target. She instructed Helan to bid aggressively against him for the "Inscribed fan of landscape painting from the Yuan dynasty," which Guan Zhihao coveted, to prolong the auction. As Helan and Guan Zhihao engaged in a high-stakes bidding war, the surface calm of the auction belied the hidden maneuvers. Helan repeatedly outbid Guan Zhihao, much to his frustration.
Pipi, sensing Guan Zhihao's distress, even tried to persuade Helan to let him have the fan, but Helan firmly told her he invited her to bid, not to interfere with his decisions. The bidding escalated dramatically, with Helan eventually securing the fan for 9. 9 million yuan. This strategic maneuver bought them precisely the time Xiu Xian needed, allowing Kuanyong to successfully swap the Pearl of Charm in the authentication room.
Shortly after, the real appraisers discovered the pearl they had just confirmed as authentic was, in fact, an LED fake. Afterward, Helan magnanimously returned the high-priced, authentic fan to Guan Zhihao, stating that a "great man shall not deprive others of their treasures" and that the work of Sir Yi Zhai (Guan Hanqing) rightfully belonged to his descendants. Delighted at finally possessing the Pearl of Charm, which he considered his clan's rightful property, Helan placed it on Pipi.
He watched intently, hoping to see the pearl glow, believing it would do so when worn by its true owner, just as it had for Huiyan. He could smell a faint fragrance emanating from Pipi, but the pearl remained inert, failing to emit any light. Later, Pipi spoke with Xiaoju on the phone. Xiaoju, despite her earlier heartbreak, cheerfully recounted how her fake relationship with Chen Nan had successfully made his ex-girlfriend jealous, leading to their reconciliation.
Xiaoju feigned happiness and pride in her "accomplishment," even though Pipi directly asked if she had feelings for Chen Nan. Xiaoju quickly dismissed the idea, insisting Chen Nan was just her "buddy," and helping each other was normal among friends.
As the episode concluded, a narrator reflected on the phrase "returning something to its original owner," noting how it often signifies a perfect ending, yet conceals the profound sadness or reluctance felt by those who once possessed or desperately desired that very thing. In the end, Xiu Xian confirmed to Helan that the Pearl of Charm had been placed on Pipi, but it had not glowed.
Episode 5 Recap
The episode opens with an explanation of a cherished Fox Clan tradition: wearing the Pearl of Charm signifies an eternal bond. A voice questions why Lord Qingmu insists that Helan Jingting, also known as Xi, bestow the Pearl upon a human girl so soon. Lord Qingmu's voice clarifies that for Xi's sake, this human girl must remain healthy until her twenty-fifth birthday, when a specific astrological alignment of pure year, pure month, and pure day will recur.
He explains that for a human to reside among their clan for an extended period, it's safer for them to undergo the 'sowing the fragrance' process early, to prevent any accidental harm from unsuspecting clan members. The Left High Priest, Zhao Song, arrives to meet Helan, whom he addresses as the Right High Priest. Zhao Song conveys Lord Qingmu's desire to see him.
However, Helan, who has been estranged from his father for centuries, dismisses the invitation, stating there's no need for them to meet. Zhao Song warns that this prolonged confrontation between father and son is detrimental to the Fox Clan. Unmoved, Helan tells him to leave, claiming he has other matters to attend to. As Zhao Song departs, he converses with Xiu Xian.
Xiu Xian asks if Zhao Song's Pearl of Charm has been sent out, and Zhao Song confirms it's still with him. Xiu Xian then suggests Helan should give up on something, implying a previous futile effort on Helan's part, adding sarcasm. This leads to a brief exchange where Xiu Xian warns Zhao Song about the misuse of spells, expressing concern for him. At the magazine office, a colleague notes a pleasant fragrance originating from Pipi, which others dismiss.
The chief editor announces disappointing magazine sales and tasks Guan Pipi with investigating Helan. Pipi finds that "Helan" was an ancient surname of northern minorities, later subsumed into the "He" surname, and wonders why Helan Jingting still uses it, also noting his wealth but lack of online presence. Another colleague discovers a Tang Dynasty poet named Helan Jingming who married a beautiful fox, was later forced by his family to steal the Gold Flower Mirror, and was ultimately killed.
Wang Xuan dismisses such stories as fantasy, comparing them to fictional works. Yet, when a colleague mentions that Empress Wu Zetian's sister's family also bore the "Helan" surname and were rumored to possess fox enchantment, capable of controlling people's minds and bodies, Wang Xuan becomes visibly unsettled, recalling her own unsettling experience with Qian Hua's lipstick. Pipi's colleagues press her on how she managed to secure a date with Helan, to which Pipi vaguely responds that he's "kind of weird."
Wang Xuan, frustrated by Pipi's non-answer, suggests they change their story from "Helan and Qian Hua" to "Gossip Reporter Climbing On the Mysterious Rich was Skyrocketing Overnight," implying a relationship between Pipi and Helan. Pipi vehemently denies it, stating they are not close. The chief editor concludes the discussion, asking Pipi to continue her research for the interview.
Later, Wang Xuan questions Xiaoyu, the person who let her into the auction previously, about a "tall and slender" man (referring to Kuanyong) who works as a plastic surgeon. Xiaoyu claims not to know him or his hospital. Wang Xuan then asks Xiaoyu to repeat the part about the Helan family having fox enchantment and controlling people's minds and bodies. At a cafe, Helan discusses the Pearl of Charm with Kuanyong and Xiu Xian.
He observes that unlike for Huiyan, the Pearl did not glow when Pipi wore it. Kuanyong explains that the Pearl only illuminates when both the giver and receiver are genuinely connected. He clarifies that while Pipi, in her past incarnations as Huiyan, consistently fell in love with Helan at first sight, in this current era, she has not yet reciprocated his feelings.
Xiu Xian adds that times and aesthetics have changed, offering a pragmatic reason for Pipi's lack of immediate affection. The conversation devolves into playful bickering between Xiu Xian and Kuanyong about their good looks and a female customer, before Helan receives an urgent phone call, prompting them to leave. Wang Xuan approaches her old classmate, Jian Zhihong, a doctor, to analyze the lipstick she received from Qian Hua, claiming it caused an allergic reaction.
Despite Jian Zhihong's busy schedule and initial reluctance, Wang Xuan's persistent nagging, appeals to their old friendship, and even feigned dramatics about a "doctor not helping a patient," eventually wear him down. He agrees to analyze the lipstick when he has time. Concerned about his upcoming date with Pipi, Helan summons Kuanyong and Xiu Xian for fashion advice. Helan admits his extreme nervousness about dating a modern girl.
Kuanyong attempts to explain the complexities of contemporary female psychology, using examples like a girl saying she's "not hungry" (meaning she wants to be coaxed to eat her favorite food) or telling him to "order for me" (meaning she wants him to order all the expensive dishes she desires). He simplifies it into a rule: "whatever they say they want, they don't actually want it. And when they say they don't want it, they do want it."
Xiu Xian and Kuanyong then launch into a centuries-long argument over what style Helan should wear for the date, with Xiu Xian suggesting a "too revealing" look and Kuanyong advocating for a "gentlemanly" attire. Fed up with their bickering, Helan decides to wear his usual clothes, thanking them sarcastically for their help. Meanwhile, Tian Xin tries to avoid Tao Jialin, but he confronts her.
He questions why she's avoiding him, especially since they are old friends and classmates, and their interactions haven't caused Pipi any harm. Tian Xin confesses her fear of accidentally revealing something. Later, Tao Jialin presses her further about her earlier mysterious statement. Tian Xin, frustrated, admits the truth: she has feelings for him. Tao Jialin, while acknowledging his own feelings for her, states he cannot abandon Pipi.
Tian Xin explains her painful dilemma: she is Pipi's best friend, and Tao Jialin is Pipi's most beloved person. If they were to be together, Pipi would lose both of them, who represent her entire world. Tao Jialin urges her to consider her own feelings, but Tian Xin believes the most rational path is to minimize harm, even if it means ongoing suffering for the three of them.
Tao Jialin, convinced Pipi will eventually realize she loves someone who doesn't love her, tries to persuade Tian Xin to meet him for dinner. Tian Xin refuses, but moments later, she "forgets" her phone, seemingly to avoid Tao Jialin, only to quickly send Pipi the restaurant address when Pipi calls, believing Tian Xin is inviting her to dinner. Tian Xin then privately makes a painful sacrifice, urging Tao Jialin not to disappoint Pipi, who only has him.
Wang Xuan visits a plastic surgery clinic, desperately trying to get an immediate appointment to enhance her looks before her wedding the next day. The receptionist informs her that only online appointments are accepted and cosmetic surgery requires a recovery period. Wang Xuan, undeterred, asks if there are any cancellations or no-shows. She also inquires about a tall, handsome doctor, whom the receptionist identifies as "Doctor Zhao," mentioning his high demand.
Wang Xuan confronts Doctor Zhao (Kuanyong in his human disguise), who sternly reiterates that he is a plastic surgeon, not a magician, and cannot make instant changes to her face for her wedding. Helan waits at a high-end restaurant for his date. Pipi arrives, promptly declaring her purpose is to interview him, not dine. Helan introduces himself as "Helan" or "Helan Xi." Pipi begins with standard interview questions, asking his age, to which Helan truthfully replies, "About 900 years old."
When asked about his diet, he states he eats "fresh flowers," leading to Pipi's disbelief. He clarifies his profession as a collector with no income, prompting Pipi to label him an "heir." Helan admits to having someone he likes, but when Pipi presses if it's Qian Hua, he expresses annoyance at her invading his privacy. Pipi explains that it's for work, and she aspires to be a political reporter, focusing on environmental issues and hoping to join "Xincheng Daily."
Helan assures her she will succeed and pledges to help. Applying Xiu Xian's dubious dating advice, Helan insists on ordering lavish dishes for Pipi, including sparkling water and seafood, despite her protests that she doesn't eat seafood due to an allergy. When Pipi challenges him about not eating human food, Helan demonstrates by refusing a flower because it has "fertilizer," further frustrating Pipi. He reiterates his unwavering honesty throughout his "whole life," a phrase Pipi corrects him on.
Pipi continues her questions, asking his hometown. Helan replies "Sky Fox Star," a planet, revealing he's an alien and not human. He confesses he is a fox, confirming Pipi's shocked deduction that he is an "alien fox." Pipi, overwhelmed, declares she's leaving, citing her seafood allergy. Helan apologizes, blaming Xiu Xian's "women's logic" advice for his misunderstanding.
At the same time, Wang Xuan receives the lipstick analysis results from Jian Zhihong, who states the lipstick's ingredients are incredibly simple and safe, lacking even lead, which is common in lipsticks. He describes its color as beautiful and "magical." Back at the restaurant, Helan continues to insist he only eats flowers, leading Pipi to use more internet slang like "Now, I've seen everything" and "I don't get it, but it's amazing."
Helan, intrigued, asks Pipi to explain these terms and other slang. Pipi explains them, then asks how someone so young doesn't use the internet. Helan reminds her he's "much older," revealing his age again: "About 900 years older." Pipi, still skeptical, challenges him to prove his fox nature.
Helan demonstrates his keen sense of smell, identifying the printing ink on her hands, the pork buns and yogurt she had for lunch, and even the exact shape and ingredients of the dishes about to be served—square steak with truffle sauce, carrots, spinach, and Italian fish sauce. When Pipi suggests he simply knows the restaurant's menu, Helan adds that he can also smell her current emotion: anger.
Pipi admits her frustration, feeling he is playing with her, but Helan firmly states he has never lied to her in his "whole life." Pipi attempts to summarize his incredible claims: "You are an alien, pretending to be a human, a 900-year-old fox, right?" Helan confirms, adding that Xiu Xian and Kuanyong are also part of the Fox Clan. Pipi asks if they also eat flowers. Helan clarifies that only he eats flowers, while other foxes sometimes consume "human liver."
This horrifying revelation sends Pipi reeling, and she rushes to the restroom. Helan reflects on the nature of truth and lies, pondering whether lies, like an anesthetic, provide a more comforting illusion, making the harsh reality of truth unwelcome. As Pipi returns, Helan pulls her close, pressing her head to his chest. Time seems to stop for Pipi as she hears Helan's heart beating an impossibly slow three times per minute, shattering her understanding of the world.
Episode 6 Recap
After discovering that Helan Jingting's heart beats only three times per minute, Guan Pipi is consumed by fear. She tries to rationalize it, asking Helan Jingting if he has a heart problem and should see a doctor. Helan Jingting, sensing her terror, asks if she is scared, but Pipi denies it, insisting he needs medical attention.
She dismisses his claims of being a fox from the Sky Fox Star, stating that no one would believe such a story if she wrote it. Understanding her emotional turmoil, Helan Jingting decides to leave. Later, Helan Jingting attempts to see Pipi again, but is advised by Kuanyong that he is not ready. Kuanyong tells him he scared Pipi the previous night, explaining that while his honesty isn't wrong, revealing his three-beat heart to a human is terrifying.
He contrasts this with past incarnations of Huiyan, who would have believed him, noting that the current era, with its pervasive internet, makes humans think they know everything and struggle to accept the unknown. Kuanyong advises giving Pipi time and reveals that Xiu Xian is already looking for her. Overwhelmed, Pipi seeks comfort from Xiaoju, recounting her unsettling experience. Xiaoju, surprisingly, believes her without reservation.
She attributes her open-mindedness to her father, a mathematics teacher, whom she describes as a "maniac" who believes that even seemingly mystical concepts like telepathy can be logically explained through mathematical formulas. Xiaoju shares a ghost story her father told her, emphasizing her own lack of fear. Pipi, despite her encounter with Helan Jingting, refuses to believe in ghosts, insisting she is rational and only believes in what is scientific. Xiaoju playfully teases Pipi about being a "scientific coward."
Xiu Xian arrives at Pipi's magazine office, but Pipi, upon hearing she has a tall, handsome visitor in sunglasses, quickly tells her colleague to say she's off work and attempts to flee. Xiu Xian, however, corners her, relaying Helan Jingting's apology for frightening her. Pipi, still in denial, insists she wasn't scared and that a slow heartbeat is normal. Xiu Xian then proposes Helan Jingting wants to meet her that evening, but Pipi makes multiple excuses to avoid him.
Pipi successfully escapes, leaving Xiu Xian to find Xiaoju behind the counter. They exchange playful banter, with Xiaoju calling Xiu Xian a "blackguard." Their conversation is interrupted by Chen Nan, Xiaoju's friend. He admits to a "cold war" with his girlfriend and, referencing a previous instance where Xiaoju pretended to be his girlfriend to make her jealous, asks Xiaoju to accompany him to apologize to his girlfriend.
Xiaoju initially resists, suggesting he should apologize alone, but Chen Nan insists she help him "clarify" that their previous act was just pretense so his girlfriend will believe him. He even asks Xiaoju to claim the idea was hers. Despite her reluctance, Xiaoju agrees to meet him at a bar that night. Xiu Xian, observing this, expresses his annoyance, calling Xiaoju a "coward" for agreeing.
Later, Xiu Xian expresses his frustration to Kuanyong, lamenting how humans lose themselves and accept unreasonable demands when in love, often failing to see when they are being taken advantage of. He calls them "stupid." Kuanyong, seeing Xiu Xian's distress, asks what he wants from him, and Xiu Xian asks him to come along, implying they will go to the bar.
Meanwhile, Jialin, wanting to "be clear with Pipi" about something they "can't keep from her," goes to Pipi's magazine office. However, Pipi, having already fled, is not there. He leaves to prepare for a video interview. Simultaneously, Pipi, still shaken, goes to the school to find Jialin, whose phone she cannot reach because hers is broken. She asks Tian Xin for her phone, but Jialin doesn't answer. Pipi then asks Tian Xin if she can stay with her.
Tian Xin agrees but is soon called by friends to a farewell party for third-year graduate students at a bar that night. Pipi, not wanting to be alone, asks to accompany them, despite her usual dislike for nightclubs. Tian Xin agrees and suggests Jialin can join them later after his interview. At the bar, Pipi notices the boy Xiaoju likes is with his girlfriend, worrying about how Xiaoju must feel. Soon after, Xiu Xian and Kuanyong arrive, looking for Xiaoju.
They find her with Chen Nan, who is still trying to get her to stay for his girlfriend's birthday party. Pipi, still afraid and feeling uneasy, asks Xiaoju to stay with her, admitting she's scared. Xiaoju brushes off her fears, lightly suggesting Pipi is scared of foxes, and tells her to wait as she goes off with Chen Nan. While buying drinks, Pipi encounters a vendor who refuses payment and instead asks her for a blessing by touching his head.
He asks her not to tell "High Priest." When Pipi questions if he means "Helan," the vendor urgently warns her not to speak his name casually. He reveals that Helan Jingting has "scented" her and that she is wearing his "Pearl of Charm." He explains that the Pearl of Charm gives her Helan Jingting's unique scent, and states that Helan Jingting only gives such a mark to his "wife." This revelation further confuses and unsettles Pipi.
Shortly after, Jialin approaches Pipi at the bar, both eager to speak with each other. However, Tian Xin immediately interrupts, pulling Jialin aside to talk, leaving Pipi alone and preventing their conversation.
Episode 7 Recap
A century ago, a female Fox Clan member, Qian Hua, was being hunted and sought refuge deep in the mountains. She was covered in realgar, which would allow her pursuers' dogs to track her scent. Just as she was about to be found, Helan appeared, instructing her to remove her realgar-covered coat. He then led the pursuers away, promising to return.
After rescuing her, Helan revealed that he was born blind and his mother was human, though he never met her. He explained that a human once sacrificed herself to save him, leading him to believe that humans and foxes should not be judged as inherently good or evil. He advised not to rush to hate others out of fear of getting hurt, but to give oneself a chance.
Inspired by his words and his past, Qian Hua became deeply devoted to him, even though she knew his heart belonged to Huiyan. She committed herself to finding Princess Xiyan's Gold Flower Mirror, believing it would unlock secrets about Lord Qingmu and Huiyan's past. Qian Hua later sought a breakthrough for Helan by investigating an ancient, brutal Fox Clan ritual involving the sacrifice of human livers.
This ritual was previously used by Lord Qingmu to treat Helan's eyes, but it left many unresolved issues and mysteries. To decipher the ancient texts describing this ritual, Qian Hua needed the assistance of the surviving elders of the Fox Clan in the north. This compelled her to approach Zhao Song, the Left High Priest and ruler of the northern territory, to request the Order Letter of the Northern Fox Clan.
Zhao Song, however, was not easily swayed; he demanded Qian Hua herself in return for his help. Qian Hua, though in a difficult position, explained her purpose: Helan wanted her to meet the Chief Priest Lord Qingmu. She emphasized the long-standing estrangement between the North and South Fox Clans, making the Order Letter essential to avoid trouble. Zhao Song, familiar with Helan's stubbornness, was skeptical, questioning why Helan would send Qian Hua to his father after centuries of no contact.
Qian Hua then confessed the true reason, detailing the ancient ritual and its connection to Helan's past, and her need for the elders' interpretation. Zhao Song, unfazed, pressed her about his reward, implying his desire for her. He scornfully remarked on her willingness to help a "love enemy," stating that he lacked such "cultivation." Meanwhile, at a nightclub, Tian Xin observed Xiaoju's visible distress after seeing Chen Nan, a boy Xiaoju liked, with his girlfriend.
Tian Xin urged Pipi to join them dancing, but Pipi, feeling uneasy, insisted on waiting for Jialin. Xiaoju confirmed she was there for Chen Nan's girlfriend's birthday, despite Tian Xin's warning not to get further entangled with him. Xiu Xian approached Xiaoju, admonishing her for her naive devotion to Chen Nan, calling him manipulative. Xiaoju retorted that at least she had value if she could be used.
Independently, Kuanyong struck up a conversation with a woman at the bar who claimed to be single and exchanged WeChat information with him. Later, Xiaoju, despite Xiu Xian's protests, approached Chen Nan's girlfriend to apologize, only to be verbally abused and humiliated by her, who accused Xiaoju of meddling and being shameless. Xiu Xian stepped in, asserting he was Xiaoju's boyfriend.
Kuanyong then clarified the situation, stating that both he and Xiu Xian were simultaneously pursuing Xiaoju, who hadn't yet chosen between them. Kuanyong confronted Chen Nan and his girlfriend, praising Xiaoju's kindness but condemning their exploitation of her goodwill. He boldly declared that Xiaoju deserved anyone, while Chen Nan did not deserve her. Before leaving, Kuanyong subtly exposed the girlfriend's earlier deceit by mentioning her WeChat ID, implying she had given it to him while claiming to be single.
Pipi, still at the nightclub, felt increasingly scared and alone. Tian Xin and Xiu Xian, observing her strange behavior, worried she seemed "bewitched" after she had been seen interacting unusually with a stranger earlier. They decided not to disclose their concerns to her immediately. Just then, Helan, drawn by the faint scent of the Pearl of Charm he had given Pipi, found her. Pipi, startled, screamed, which drew Jialin, who had just arrived.
Jialin rushed to her side, asserting his identity as her boyfriend and warning Helan to stay away. Xiu Xian and Kuanyong, recognizing Helan, urged him to leave due to the public setting and Pipi's visible fear. Though Helan was angered to see Pipi seek solace in Jialin's embrace, his rage causing a nearby light fixture to burst and further terrify Pipi, he reluctantly agreed to depart.
As Jialin escorted a fearful Pipi home, she expressed her intention to resign from the newspaper to focus on learning English. She had secretly discovered online that foxes feared realgar. The next day, she went to a pharmacy, purchasing realgar under the pretense of using it for a foot soak, aiming to have it for self-defense without harming anyone. She then approached Xiu Xian and Kuanyong, who were at their regular coffee shop.
They detected the scent of realgar from her bag and confronted her, reminding her that Helan had meant no harm by revealing his identity. Pipi explained her actions were out of fear due to recent strange encounters and assured them she wouldn't harm Helan. She then asked them to arrange a meeting with him, suggesting a lunch at the nearby Muyu Villa restaurant.
Upon learning of Pipi's request and her possession of realgar, Kuanyong expressed concern about Helan meeting her, citing Pipi's emotional instability and deep misunderstandings. However, Helan, reflecting on his centuries-long pursuit of Pipi (his reincarnated beloved), acknowledged his past mistakes of taking their bond for granted and not investing enough in their relationship. He realized he needed to put more effort into this life, regardless of the outcome, to have no regrets. Determined, he decided to accept Pipi's invitation.
At the Muyu Villa restaurant, Helan greeted Pipi, acknowledging the "planted incense" that allowed him to locate her, a concept Pipi didn't seem to understand. Helan, who typically didn't eat human food, ordered a lavish meal for Pipi, including roasted pigeon with caviar, lamb chops, shrimp with vegetables and aloe vera, and grilled salmon. Pipi then asked him to prepare the realgar she brought by crushing it and mixing it with ice water and honey.
Helan, to demonstrate his vulnerability, dipped his finger into the realgar mixture, which immediately burned and broke his skin, causing it to bleed. Pipi, startled, asked him why he had planted incense on her and what the Pearl of Charm meant, as she couldn't remove it. Helan explained that the incense was a sign of respect and the Pearl of Charm a gift symbolizing his affection, hoping she would reciprocate.
Pipi firmly rejected the Pearl, reiterating that she had a boyfriend and wanted him to take it back and stop bothering her. Helan, saddened, asked if he truly made her so afraid. He then effortlessly removed the Pearl of Charm from her neck, the very same bead she had previously been unable to cut or burn off. Pipi watched, her heart filling with a profound sense of loss, as the invisible connection she felt to Helan seemed to sever.
Episode 8 Recap
One hundred years ago, Helan Jingting abandoned his family and his responsibilities as Right Priest for Huiyan, venturing into the human world with Kuanyong to find her. As Qingmu's son, Zhao Song harbored deep resentment for Helan Jingting, especially because he himself was not favored. Qianhua, who was deeply in love with Helan Jingting, requested an audience with Lord Qingmu, expressing her willingness to go to the Southern Fox Clan to persuade Helan Jingting to return.
She argued that she was still engaged to him, making her the most suitable person to intervene. Zhao Song, overhearing this, quickly proposed to Lord Qingmu that he lead troops to eradicate Helan Jingting and his rebel followers, considering them weak and ready for a decisive blow.
However, Lord Qingmu rejected this, stating that fratricide was undesirable and that since the Tushan gens, a strong supporter of the Fox Clan and engaged to Helan Jingting, offered to intervene, their offer should be accepted. Zhao Song persisted, but Lord Qingmu firmly told him to stop, then turned to Qianhua, urging her to proceed. Later, Lord Qingmu asked Zhao Song if he thought there was any chance of reconciliation with Helan Jingting.
Zhao Song confirmed that Helan Jingting, referred to as Xi, remained the same, repeatedly refusing to meet with Qingmu, suggesting he did not desire to mend their father-son relationship as Qingmu did. Qingmu sighed, admitting he had indulged Helan Jingting too much, and decided to let him be. Zhao Song then cautiously suggested that the Chief Priest's successor position be reconsidered.
When asked what he meant, Zhao Song pointed out that Helan Jingting had lived among humans for so long and neglected Fox Clan affairs, making him unsuitable for the position. Lord Qingmu conceded that given the current situation, Zhao Song was indeed more suitable to lead the clan. However, he noted Helan Jingting's high prestige within the Southern Fox Clan and expressed a desire to speak with him again.
Zhao Song vehemently argued that Helan Jingting's long entanglement with a human woman and his leading the Southern Fox Clan to closer ties with humanity posed a danger, but Lord Qingmu cut him off, asserting that Helan Jingting was still his son and would change. He insisted he would talk to him. Zhao Song then revealed that he had given away his Pearl of Charm to Qianhua, the eldest daughter of the Tushan gens.
He explained that Qianhua had agreed to it willingly and that they were in love, planning to visit Lord Qingmu soon. As Qianhua tenderly bandaged Helan Jingting’s wound, she felt his deep sorrow and leaned her head on his shoulder, seeking a moment of closeness. This intimate scene was witnessed by Zhao Song, whose fury erupted, causing a city-wide power outage. Meanwhile, Tian Xin was preparing for her long-anticipated performance.
Her friend talked to her about Helan Jingting and Miss Guan, hoping their relationship would go well. Tian Xin was distracted and told her friend she was hungry and might wait at the cafe. Her friend expressed concern for Pipi after what happened last night and planned to bring her to cheer for Tian Xin. Tian Xin then spoke with Jialin, asking if he would have stayed with Pipi if she hadn't been in the picture.
Jialin mused that he and Pipi had little in common and weren't compatible. Tian Xin dismissed her original question as "nothing important." Pipi, preparing to visit Tian Xin, heard her mother pressuring her about her future with Jialin, urging her to grasp the opportunity to secure such a rare and promising man. At the venue, Jialin arrived with flowers for Tian Xin’s performance. Pipi also arrived and complimented the beautiful flowers.
Pipi, still consumed by guilt, asked Tian Xin about her relationship with the man who had pestered her the previous night, revealing she had seen Tian Xin and Helan Jingting dining together on a rooftop. Tian Xin explained he was someone she met through work, and her chief editor had asked her to interview him about the Fox Clan and his heart, a story Pipi might not believe.
Pipi confessed that recent strange events had annoyed her, and she was considering resigning to prepare for a potential move to America with Jialin. She wondered if Jialin would take her with him. The performance began and concluded successfully. Moments later, the entire city was plunged into darkness as the power went out. Tian Xin was dismayed, her camera failing. The power outage also startled Wang Xuan, who had been camping outside Qianhua’s residence for days, observing her.
The sudden power cut and strange aura further disoriented her, turning her once proud and bright demeanor into a nervous and disheveled state as she continued her erratic photography. Her chief editor, noticing her increasingly odd behavior, instructed an assistant to keep an eye on her, concerned she might cause more trouble. Wang Xuan insisted the story she was working on now was far more interesting than gossip, claiming it would be a world-shaking scoop.
At their apartment, Kuanyong was working on his computer with Xiu Xian patiently waiting nearby. After the power went out, Kuanyong stared at the black screen, lost in thought. Xiu Xian, growing impatient, suggested they go out for dinner, even offering to go to a different restaurant. Kuanyong refused, stating he wasn't hungry and that some things, like eating, could be done alone.
Xiu Xian confronted him, reminding him of a childhood promise, but Kuanyong dismissed it as "nonsense" and walked away. Regretting his words, Kuanyong grabbed a flashlight and went to Xiaoju’s cafe, hoping to find Xiu Xian. He found Xiaoju alone by candlelight. Xiaoju was surprised to see Kuanyong without Xiu Xian, given they were inseparable.
She was also surprised when Kuanyong ordered a meat sandwich, noting that if Xiu Xian had been with him, she wouldn't have known how to prepare meat without electricity. Kuanyong confessed to Xiaoju that he was not a vegetarian and had only pretended to be one since childhood due to circumstances. He recounted how he and Xiu Xian grew up in a strict Fox-breeding house, an orphanage where children had to work and eat all their food or face punishment.
Xiu Xian, a picky eater, refused to eat vegetables, so Kuanyong ate Xiu Xian's vegetables and gave him his own meat, all while maintaining the lie that he only ate vegetables, to protect Xiu Xian's pride and ensure he ate enough. Xiaoju was deeply moved, realizing Kuanyong had been vegetarian for hundreds of years for Xiu Xian.
Meanwhile, Xiu Xian, having run three blocks to buy a vegetarian salad for Kuanyong, returned to their dark, empty apartment and found no trace of Kuanyong. Zhao Song approached Qianhua, offering to lend her the Order Letter she needed to meet the Northern Fox Clan elders, stating there were no conditions, much to Qianhua's surprise. He explained that the Northern Fox Clan was conservative and suspicious, and the Order Letter alone wouldn't be enough.
He offered to accompany her to help navigate the difficulties, but insisted that to ensure the elders believed she was "one of us," she needed to wear his Pearl of Charm, thereby becoming recognized as the Left Priest's lover. Qianhua agreed to set out during the next new moon, but Zhao Song urged no rush, citing the elders' bad temper and their ongoing conflicts with the Southern Fox Clan. He emphasized the importance of their belief in her status.
Pipi came to see Jialin in person. Jialin informed her that the delivery service had lost his Master's degree certificate and he needed to fly to America tomorrow to resubmit it within the week. Pipi, already emotional, told Jialin she had resigned from her job, implying her desire to be with him and go to America. Jialin, caught off guard, struggled to respond fully. Later, Tian Xin called Jialin to discuss their trip to America.
Jialin told her he was busy with department teachers and suggested they talk after he returned. Tian Xin made Jialin promise to tell Pipi the truth about their relationship upon his return, as she no longer wanted to hide it. Jialin then called Pipi, telling her he was on campus and had family matters to attend to that evening, subtly avoiding her.
Episode 9 Recap
A century ago, young Xiu Xian and Kuanyong endured brutal beatings and torture at Tanfeng House, treated as mere commodities for sale. The Madam of Tanfeng House oversaw their exploitation, urging them to quickly finish their meals and serve guests. A major client visited, seeking a "young man" from the establishment to "have progenies for the clan." The madam offered Xiu Xian and Kuanyong, noting one was new and the other "better."
While Xiu Xian was having medicine applied to him, he and Kuanyong contemplated escape, but the Madam's enforcers quickly caught and beat them. Their plight was interrupted by the arrival of the Right High Priest, Helan. He accused the Madam of colluding with human dignitaries to traffic their fox kin, a severe offense.
He declared that Tanfeng House, despite having Lord Qingmu's token, must be dissolved because it operated on his territory and its practices of immoderately using "breeding foxes" for reproduction were alienating the clan, reducing progenies. Helan asserted that relationships built on love were more solid than mere consanguinity or lust, forming the true basis for the clan's peace.
After freeing the captive foxes, he told Xiu Xian and Kuanyong to stop following him, stating he couldn't take care of them, but they continued to follow him. Feeling exhausted, Pipi visited Xiaoju at her café. Pipi shared that she had resigned from her job, feeling overwhelmed by recent events and wanting to clear her mind. Her main focus was now on moving to America with Jialin to start a new life.
However, Jialin had yet to bring up the topic, citing issues with his lost degree certificate which required him to travel. Xiaoju expressed her skepticism, sensing Jialin might not intend to take Pipi with him. Pipi then confessed to Xiaoju about an earlier encounter where she had brought realgar to meet Helan, which resulted in him being hurt when he put his finger into it.
Xiaoju criticized Pipi's actions, reminding her that Helan was fond of her and had never harmed her. She challenged Pipi's fear, suggesting that if Helan were equally afraid of humans, he might bring something like sulfuric acid to a meeting. Xiaoju then mentioned the unusual behavior of Xiu Xian and Kuanyong, noting they were having some sort of "tantrum" and were not at the café. Pipi then went to Helan’s residence, bringing him fresh, fertilizer-free flowers.
She awkwardly apologized for hurting his finger with the realgar, but Helan dismissed it, saying he was the one who put his finger into it. Pipi also informed him that she had resigned, so the article about him would not be published, thus his secrets would remain safe. Helan expressed his gratitude. Pipi admitted that she was beginning to believe his stories but questioned why he shared such truths with an "ordinary girl" like her, suggesting it might instill fear.
Helan reaffirmed his vow never to lie to her, stating he would always answer her questions truthfully. Pipi then asked why he had chosen her, wondering if there was anything special about her. Helan responded by saying that in his heart, she was "the most special, most distinctive girl" he was willing to "risk his life for." Pipi found the declaration too serious. She then offered to help him change the dressing on his healing finger, which he accepted.
As she re-bandaged his hand, Pipi's curiosity led her to ask more about the Fox Clan, specifically why some foxes consume human livers. Helan explained that it boosts their energy. He then clarified that the Southern Fox Clan, including Xiu Xian and Kuanyong, do not eat human livers, as he had established that rule centuries ago. Pipi then hesitantly asked if he himself had ever consumed one.
Helan confessed that he had, but it was "not voluntary" and had happened "a long time ago." Upon hearing this, Pipi’s newfound calmness was shattered by a renewed wave of fear, and she abruptly said goodbye and left. As she departed, Helan expressed that if his absence would allow her to lead an ordinary, happy life, he would willingly stay away, acknowledging that his "wishful thinking" could be harmful.
Pipi acknowledged his words, assuring him that she understood and would strive for her own happiness. They parted ways. Despite their typically close bond, Xiu Xian and Kuanyong had been bickering constantly. This friction extended to their plans to see a movie with Xiaoju. Even as they arrived at the cinema, they argued about where to sit and who would buy popcorn, each refusing to accommodate the other.
To avoid direct contact, they seated Xiaoju between them, continuing their subtle jabs and bickering throughout the film. During the movie, "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," Kuanyong praised the chimpanzee character, Caesar, and, reflecting on the film's depiction of human cruelty, suggested that such humans should be imprisoned. Xiu Xian disagreed, asserting that such actions would make them no different from the very humans they condemned.
Their constant squabbling and possessiveness over Xiaoju made the outing simultaneously amusing and awkward for her. After the movie, Xiaoju reflected on their strange dynamic, noting how the usually inseparable pair were now acting like feuding brothers. Xiu Xian vehemently denied any shared origin with Kuanyong. They continued to argue, even about the possibility of a sequel to the film and its potential plot. After the movie, Xiaoju arranged to meet Pipi for dinner.
As Pipi approached the restaurant, she saw Jialin and Tian Xin together, their demeanor intimate and comfortable. Heartbroken, Pipi ignored Xiaoju's attempts to redirect her to another restaurant. She slowly walked towards them, her gaze fixed on the two. She then called Tian Xin's phone. Tian Xin, still with Jialin, answered and attempted to deceive Pipi, claiming she was having dinner with her professor.
However, a casual turn of the head revealed Tian Xin and Jialin's shocked faces as they saw Pipi standing before them. The pretense became futile. Pipi confronted Jialin, who, at the most inopportune moment, blurted out the truth. He claimed they "don't suit each other" and that he "maybe just don't like her anymore," denying it had anything to do with Tian Xin.
Pipi, devastated by the years of deceit, demanded to know why he hadn't told her sooner and compelled him to say the words: "We are done." Heartbroken and devastated, Pipi sought solace in alcohol, drinking heavily at a bar late into the night. A predatory man approached her, offering more drinks and subtly slipping a drug into her glass. Unaware and already inebriated, Pipi consumed the doctored drink and quickly passed out. She later awoke in an unknown, dark place.
Fortunately, as Pipi left the bar, she was spotted by a fox clan member, who immediately reported her abduction to Helan. Helan, in turn, contacted Xiu Xian and Kuanyong. They were still at Xiaoju's cafe, listening to Xiaoju recount Pipi's painful breakup with Jialin, while also bickering over their food. Upon receiving Helan's urgent call, the three swiftly departed to initiate a rescue.
Regaining some consciousness, Pipi desperately tried to escape her perilous situation, but her nerves were still numbed by the drug, causing her to stumble and fall after only a few steps. The assailant seized her, tearing her clothes and revealing a dark red mark on the back of her neck. Pipi cried out for help. Just then, Helan arrived, intervened, and swiftly subdued the attacker.
He rescued the unconscious Pipi, who, thanks to his timely arrival, had not been further harmed. Helan held her protectively in his arms and carried her to Kuanyong's waiting car. Unbeknownst to them, Wang Xuan meticulously observed and recorded the entire rescue on her camera.
Episode 10 Recap
Young Helan Jingting, who was blind, eagerly awaited the completion of a medicine that his father, Lord Qingmu, had prepared. He expressed his desire for Huiyan to be the first person he saw, though she hesitated, worried about her appearance. Huiyan bore the Flower of the Fox, a mark on her neck with twelve dark red petals, destined to bloom within a year, indicating she would not live past her year of florescence.
This meant she was fated to be a medicinal usher. Upon drinking the medicine, Jingting’s sight was instantly restored. His first thought was of Huiyan, but his father sternly commanded him to forget her, asserting that she was merely his medicinal usher and not his wife. Jingting, furious and disbelieving, demanded to know why she had been betrothed to him and why they were allowed to grow up together if she was only medicine.
Lord Qingmu explained that he wanted Jingting to learn never to fall in love with a human woman and to prepare him to become a great king and leader of the Fox Clan. Jingting, however, defied his father’s will, rejecting the path laid out for him. Later, Guan Pipi awoke in her bed, drenched in sweat, with Helan Jingting sitting beside her, seemingly lost in thought. Distraught, Pipi felt she had done nothing wrong but was overwhelmed by suffering.
In her despair, she even asked Jingting to consume her. He replied that he would, but only when she truly loved him. Pipi bitterly remarked that such a day would likely never come, believing she would never fall in love again. Meanwhile, Wang Xuan, still convinced that Pipi had gained crucial information about Helan Jingting during her previous interview, suspected a private agreement was keeping the details from being published. She resolved to continue tracking Helan and Qian Hua.
Wang Xuan interrogated her editor about Pipi’s sudden resignation, finding it suspicious that Pipi's financial situation couldn't support her boyfriend's supposed move to the United States. She meticulously checked Pipi’s old interview equipment, discovering a recording pen, further solidifying her suspicion that Pipi had obtained important information and was subsequently "set up" by Helan. Pipi was consumed by deep sadness, unable to even muster a smile despite Xiaoju's efforts to cheer her up.
She confessed to Xiaoju that she didn’t hate Tian Xin, but she knew that Jialin no longer needed her. She recalled her painful past, including when her father's factory closed down and he had to sell gloves on the street, and how Jialin and Tian Xin were the only ones who stood by her during those darkest three years. Pipi acknowledged that while she had anticipated Jialin’s departure, she had never expected it to be with Tian Xin.
She believed she was too foolish and inadequate for Jialin, concluding that Tian Xin, with her intelligence and talent, was a much better fit for him in America. Dragging her weary body to the airport, Pipi hoped to see Jialin one last time. Jialin, too, was preoccupied with thoughts of Pipi. They narrowly missed each other as Pipi spotted Jialin and Tian Xin from a distance.
Lacking the courage to confront them, Pipi chose to silently bless them and returned home alone. Weeks prior, Pipi had booked an expensive Qixi Festival couple's set dinner, non-refundable due to the special occasion. A call from the themed restaurant reminded her that it was Qixi Festival, deepening her sense of loneliness. Despite knowing Helan Jingting didn’t eat human food, Pipi, feeling an immense void, asked him to accompany her.
During dinner, Pipi found the costly food tasteless, feeling strange eating alone. Jingting, seeing her distress, made an effort to eat the human food, though it was uncomfortable for him, hoping his small sacrifice would offer her some comfort. After dinner, they rode the ferris wheel, admiring the city's beautiful night view. Pipi revealed it was her first time on a ferris wheel, having always believed such a special experience should be shared with someone she loved.
She sadly concluded that some beautiful sights were simply not meant to be shared. Jingting, observing Pipi’s profound sorrow for another, felt a silent pain. As they prepared to part, a light rain began to fall. Sheltering under a single black umbrella, Pipi asked Jingting to read an old letter Jialin had written to her when they were young.
Jingting began to read: the letter was addressed "To the future Pipi," recounting Jialin’s childhood affection for her, his enjoyment of their time together, and his belief that she was the most beautiful, kind, and cute girl he had ever met. It ended with a proposal of marriage, promising never to cheat or make her sad so they could be together forever. Tears streamed down Pipi’s face as she listened.
Jingting felt a deep, unspoken pain as he witnessed her heartbroken reaction. As Pipi turned and walked away into the cold rain, Jingting felt as if he had been a spectator to a tragedy, and in doing so, had unwittingly become a victim himself.
Episode 11 Recap
A century ago, Lord Qingmu frantically rushed to Princess Zhaoyan, cradling an almost lifeless infant, Jingting, in his arms. He begged her to save the child, explaining that Jingting was half-human, very weak, and suffered from an eye disease, fearing he wouldn't live long. Princess Zhaoyan, filled with resentment, refused. She scorned Lord Qingmu for abandoning his engagement to her sister, Princess Xiyan, for a human woman, and now daring to ask her to save this "human bastard."
She told him to leave and never mention her sister again. However, a mysterious figure, whose voice was identified as Zhao Song, intervened, remarking on Princess Zhaoyan's unhealthy condition and rapidly increasing heartbeat. This leverage seemed to prompt Princess Zhaoyan to eventually heal the infant Jingting. Qian Hua and Zhao Song's impending departure weighed on Lord Helan Jingting. Despite his engagement to the Tushan family, Qian Hua's care for him made her like family.
He distrusted Zhao Song, seeing his words and actions as manipulative, yet knew Zhao Song was the most suitable companion for the journey north. Separately, Helan found himself uncharacteristically distracted since his last meeting with Guan Pipi. Whenever he thought of Guan Pipi, he lost all desire to do anything else, a feeling entirely new to him. Zhao Kuanyong observed Helan's absent-mindedness and listlessness, diagnosing them as typical symptoms of humans in distress.
He advised against using alcohol, warning it could lead to irrational and dangerous behavior, referencing a past incident involving Pipi, and noting that alcohol would make Helan physically uncomfortable. Kuanyong then informed Helan that Qian Hua had sent a WeChat message, indicating she would soon depart for the north as the full moon approached. Helan, unfamiliar with modern technology, expressed surprise at the concept of "WeChat" and "apps."
As they discussed their impending journey to the north, Kuanyong brought up the ancient Minyue family in Qingliu, noting its two beautiful princesses, Zhaoyan and Xiyan. Helan confirmed he had heard of them, particularly Princess Zhaoyan, known as a capable woman within the Fox Clan, though the Northern Fox Clan rarely spoke of her and believed she had died. Kuanyong, however, asserted that Princess Zhaoyan was alive and residing in the north, right under Lord Qingmu's nose.
Just then, Zhao Song appeared, commenting that if Princess Zhaoyan were indeed alive, she must be an incredibly wise elder for hiding so long. He dismissed Helan's map as a mere child's drawing from two centuries ago, stating it was useless for finding Zhaoyan. He revealed that Princess Zhaoyan was the only elder who could use the Gold Flower Mirror, and that Lord Qingmu had once sought her help for it, implying it was related to liver harvesting.
Helan, suspicious of Zhao Song's every word, felt he spoke like a schemer. Zhao Song acknowledged Helan's engagement to the Tushan family, though he knew Helan cared little for it. As Qian Hua and Zhao Song prepared to leave, Zhao Song told Helan that the Pearl of Charm Qian Hua wore was for her safety, given the Northern Fox Clan's difficult temperament. Helan bid Qian Hua to be careful.
Meanwhile, Pipi remained withdrawn, resembling a "vampire," according to Xiaoju, who urged her to get out of bed. Pipi had buried herself in her room, trying to escape the harsh reality of her recent heartbreak. With Tian Xin gone, only Xiaoju was left to help Pipi through her emotional pain. Xiaoju decided to try the "four S" methods for healing emotional distress. First, ""Shopping"".
Pipi, however, grew visibly sad when she saw a brand Jialin liked in a store window, prompting Xiaoju to quickly pull her away. Next, ""Sweet"" food. Xiaoju bought a table full of expensive, high-calorie desserts, explaining that sugar and starch could make the brain happy. Pipi, however, felt nauseous and found the sweets gave her acid reflux, leading to Xiaoju despairing over the wasted money. The third "S" was ""Sport"".
Xiaoju enthusiastically suggested exercise would release endorphins and even taped photos of Tian Xin and Jialin to a punching bag for Pipi to hit. But Pipi declined, explaining that she didn't blame Tian Xin or Jialin; she simply needed time to adjust to the sudden void left by the simultaneous departure of her two closest companions. Later, Jialin called Pipi from America. Pipi answered, calmly assuring him she was doing well and offering advice on adapting to American food.
Jialin apologized, expressing how sorry he was. After the call, Pipi assured Xiaoju she was fine, though Xiaoju remained unconvinced. As Pipi continued to struggle with her emotions, Xiaoju sought help from Kuanyong and Xiu Xian. They brainstormed ways to help a lovelorn girl, suggesting things like losing weight, getting a promotion, eating sweets, going to the gym, crying, or even cosmetic surgery.
Xiu Xian reported back that Pipi had already tried eating and sports, and was afraid of the pain of cosmetic surgery. This left crying, but not just a few tears – a deep, uninhibited wail. Pipi, however, found herself unable to cry, even when watching a sad movie or thinking about Jialin or Tian Xin.
She acknowledged that Tian Xin had been like a mirror for her, helping her understand herself, and expressed gratitude for their time together, despite the things Tian Xin had that Pipi could never possess. She also reflected on how, with Jialin gone, she could now truly relax and be herself when with Xiaoju, a stark contrast to the tension she felt around Jialin and Tian Xin.
Frustrated by Pipi’s inability to express her pain, Xiaoju decided to try the "fourth S," believing Lord Helan's help was essential. When discussing this with Kuanyong and Xiu Xian, a comical misunderstanding arose. Xiaoju's intended "S" was "Superstar," referring to a concert by Pipi's favorite niche singer, Gui. However, Kuanyong and Xiu Xian, misunderstanding the "S" to mean something that brought "great satisfaction or excitement to human body and soul," interpreted it as "Sex."
Despite their misinterpretation, Xiaoju went ahead with her plan. Pipi remained listless, her former vibrant self having vanished. She often found herself thinking of a certain person, a love that could not be. Xiaoju sent Pipi a ticket to a small concert by Gui, a singer Pipi admired. Deciding not to waste Xiaoju's effort, Pipi attended. Amidst the lively crowd, Pipi felt isolated and quiet.
Even as Gui, her favorite singer, performed her beloved song, "Rosefinch Street," it failed to stir her emotions significantly. Suddenly, Pipi noticed Helan Jingting not far away. Their eyes met across the multitude. A smile touched Pipi's lips, and tears welled up. She pushed through the crowd, rushing into Helan's warm embrace. They spoke briefly; Helan apologized for the Qixi Festival night, and Pipi assured him it was alright, that she understood.
Pipi then asked Helan why he was there, and he revealed Xiaoju had sent him. Pipi, surprised, reiterated her deep affection for Gui's music, particularly "Rosefinch Street," and the mysterious aura surrounding the singer.
Episode 12 Recap
Guan Pipi’s spirits lifted considerably after attending Gui’s concert, accompanied by Helan Jingting. As she recalled Gui’s poignant and heart-wrenching song, she praised the singer for his talent. Suddenly, Gui appeared, seeking Helan Jingting’s blessing. It was revealed that Gui was also a member of the Fox Clan, concealed within the human world, and the lyrics of the beautiful song Guan Pipi admired were originally written by Helan Jingting, with Gui composing the melody.
Gui explained that he had fortuitously come across Helan Jingting’s lyrics and, finding them incredibly beautiful, had begged for them to compose the melody. Guan Pipi confessed that while she didn't fully understand the lyrics, the song always made her feel a deep sadness. Helan Jingting then revealed that the lyrics spoke of a man forced to leave his beloved in Chang’an, only to find her gone when he finally returned years later.
Guan Pipi deduced that the song must have been written for Helan Jingting's own lost love. On their way back, Helan Jingting and Guan Pipi were ambushed by the same group of thugs who had previously robbed Guan Pipi. The leader of the thugs, seeking revenge for a past injury, declared he would make Guan Pipi "taste the flavor of breaking bones."
However, the human thugs were no match for Helan Jingting, who effortlessly dispatched them with a wave of his hand. Despite this, Guan Pipi sustained a minor cut on her neck during the scuffle. Once the commotion subsided, Helan Jingting tenderly touched her wound and, leaning in, pressed his lips to her neck, healing her. He then produced the Pearl of Charm, urging her to wear it for protection, stating it would not disturb her unless there was an emergency.
This time, Guan Pipi readily accepted the gift. Back home, as Guan Pipi touched the Pearl of Charm, her eyes glowed with an unusual light, and the Flower of the Fox on the back of her neck slowly began to bloom. Meanwhile, Xiaoju, Xiu Xian, and Kuanyong were discussing Guan Pipi’s recovery. Xiaoju confirmed that Helan Jingting had helped with the "fourth S," referring to arranging Gui’s concert tickets.
Xiu Xian and Kuanyong, however, had misinterpreted the "fourth S" as a romantic encounter, believing Helan Jingting and Guan Pipi were now a couple. Just then, Guan Pipi arrived, confirming she felt much better and was very happy, clarifying that the "fourth S" was indeed about getting concert tickets, not what they had imagined. Helan Jingting then approached Guan Pipi, apologizing for the previous day’s "accident" and asking if she was still in pain.
He then invited her to a Fox Clan party that weekend. Guan Pipi accepted the invitation. Later, Guan Pipi expressed her nervousness about attending the party. Xiaoju immediately offered to accompany her, with Xiu Xian and Kuanyong leading the way. Guan Pipi worried about not having suitable clothes, but Helan Jingting had already prepared a beautiful dress for her. Concurrently, Zhao Song and Qianhua embarked on a train journey northward.
Qianhua noted Zhao Song's uncharacteristic quietness, to which he admitted he was nervous about their first trip alone. He explained that he was taking her to the Northern Fox Clan territory, where he had been dedicated to building new spaces for their clan for over a hundred years. Their mission was to find Princess Zhaoyan, who was believed to have passed away long ago. In America, Tian Xin was feeling increasingly uneasy in her empty house.
Her relationship with Jia Lin, born from an "improper" act against her best friend Guan Pipi, weighed on her. Jia Lin's actions made her anxious, fearing she would become another Guan Pipi, trapped in lies. That evening, Jia Lin returned home late, explaining he had run into a university senior, Zhang Chao from the architecture department, and had gone to dinner with him after his phone died. Tian Xin, distrustful, questioned why he hadn’t called her or invited her along.
She took his phone, attempting to turn it on to verify his story, admitting she didn’t know why she was acting this way, perhaps because of how Jia Lin had lied to Guan Pipi in the past. At the Fox Clan's vibrant party, filled with socialites and renowned figures, Guan Pipi, a common human, felt out of place and overwhelmed by the attention.
Helan Jingting reassured her that these were his family and friends and that she had nothing to fear by his side. Soon after, an elder called Helan Jingting away, and he asked Xiaoju to look after Guan Pipi. Xiaoju, spotting the actress Fang Jinxue, rushed off to get an autograph, with Xiu Xian close behind. Kuanyong, left alone, quickly excused himself. Guan Pipi found herself isolated.
The Pearl of Charm she wore attracted the attention of Helan Jingting’s followers, who approached her for conversation, leaving her swamped. A woman named Su Mei introduced herself, expressing surprise that Helan Jingting had given the Pearl of Charm to Guan Pipi, as it was supposed to be given to Qianhua. Su Mei and her companions then began plying Guan Pipi with what they claimed was juice but was in fact alcohol.
Guan Pipi, having a low tolerance, quickly became disoriented and dizzy. Su Mei offered to take her upstairs to a room to rest, explaining that the entire building belonged to her boyfriend. Helan Jingting noticed Guan Pipi’s disappearance and quickly went to search for her. Meanwhile, Xiaoju, frantically looking for Guan Pipi, ignored Xiu Xian who seemed to have something on his mind.
In her search, Xiaoju spotted Kuanyong embracing Fang Jinxue in the distance, recalling Xiu Xian’s earlier mention that Fang Jinxue used to have feelings for Kuanyong. This sight, yet another unrequited love, left Xiaoju lost in thought for a long moment, while Xiu Xian's unspoken feelings for Xiaoju remained unexpressed. Helan Jingting found Guan Pipi in a room upstairs. Just as he prepared to leave, Su Mei locked the door from the outside.
Helan Jingting realized they had been tricked; it was the rare full moon night, a time that occurs once every ten years, when the Fox Clan can reproduce. He explained that a condition for their clan to breed was for the High Priest to consummate first. Helan Jingting assured Guan Pipi he would not harm her, stating they would be released once the full moon night passed.
He then suggested they get closer, hoping it would make those outside believe they had consummated and release them sooner. Driven by alcohol, Guan Pipi leaned in and kissed Helan Jingting. At that moment, the Pearl of Charm glowed brightly, and Guan Pipi suddenly collapsed into unconsciousness.
Episode 13 Recap
Young Jingting has never seen his birth mother, a woman rumored to be human. He is often plagued by nightmares about his mother, waking in agony. Huiyan consistently stays by his side, comforting him and reassuring him that it's just a dream. She urges him to stop having nightmares, explaining that his mother in heaven would be sad to see his suffering.
Jingting confesses that he has never met his mother, and his father, Qingmu, told him he carries "human blood," never allowing him to ask about her. He believes his father must despise her. Huiyan, however, insists that Qingmu must love his mother deeply, only choosing not to speak of her. Meanwhile, Qingmu stands outside, listening to Jingting's pained cries. Later, at a grave, Qingmu expresses his deep sorrow and reluctance to let go.
He has kept a secret for centuries to protect the person buried beneath the tombstone. Sumei, having inadvertently caused Pippi's collapse, rushes into the room. She initially thought Pippi was wearing the Pearl of Charm, but upon realizing Pippi is human, Sumei understands the gravity of the situation: kissing a Fox Clan member can cause a human to fall into an eternal slumber. Jingting emerges, cradling the unconscious Pippi, his face grim, and rushes her to the operating room.
Ordinary doctors are unable to treat Pippi's critical condition. Kuanyong prepares to inject Pippi with a special Fox Clan medicine, but the doctors object. In a desperate act, Xiaoju threatens them with a scalpel to her own neck, demanding they proceed. As the unique medicine slowly enters Pippi's body, her erratic blood pressure stabilizes. Outside the operating room, Xiaoju is distraught.
She reflects on how she had encouraged Pippi, who was initially fearful, to try and accept Jingting, only for this terrible outcome to occur. Adding to her distress is the memory of seeing Kuanyong with another woman, Jinxue. Jinxue had embraced Kuanyong in front of Xiaoju and Xiu Xian, and Kuanyong made no attempt to resist. The image of Jinxue's vulnerable demeanor and Kuanyong's acceptance is unbearable for Xiaoju.
Feeling overwhelmed, Xiaoju turns to leave, declaring she needs to buy sweets. Xiu Xian, bewildered by her sudden decision, follows closely behind. Even after eating sweets, Xiaoju's agitation persists. She then begins to exercise vigorously in the hospital corridor, hoping that this seemingly irrational behavior might alleviate her emotional turmoil. Xiu Xian silently follows, observing her erratic actions, his unspoken "I like you" remaining unsaid. Xiaoju starts to actively avoid Kuanyong, acting out in frustration. Pippi slowly opens her eyes.
The doctor, seeing her stabilizing condition, mistakenly assumes Jingting is an experienced physician and enthusiastically pulls him into a discussion about medicine, showing him various patient files. Jingting reluctantly looks through them. Coincidentally, there was a recent case involving a patient strikingly similar to Pippi, who died because doctors couldn't accurately assess the cause. Jingting falls into deep thought as he reads the patient's name on the medical record.
Zhao Song and Qianhua enter the territory of the Fox Clan in the north, seeking Princess Zhaoyan. Finding her is proving difficult, so they decide to locate her trusted attendant, Yue Bozhong. However, Yue Bozhong is as elusive as Princess Zhaoyan herself, with no one having ever seen his true face. Hearing this, Qianhua becomes disheartened.
Driven by her ambition to gain status, Qianhua attempts to integrate into the Fox Clan's social circles, hoping to be revered as the "Left High Priest's wife." Instead, she is met with disdain and isolation, which pains Zhao Song, prompting him to comfort her. Repeated rejections leave the proud Qianhua feeling lost. She, born into a prestigious Northern Fox Clan family, has spent years tirelessly working for Jingting.
Now, she faces emptiness and ostracism from her own kind, feeling like an abandoned orphan. Fortunately, Zhao Song remains steadfastly by her side. Zhao Song enthusiastically continues to introduce Qianhua to various Fox Clan members. However, the story of his persistent pursuit of her is widely known, and many resent Qianhua on his behalf. At a gathering with the White Fox Family, Qianhua is accused of using Zhao Song as a "spare tire" after being rejected by Jingting.
Qianhua admits she used to like Jingting but now realizes love must be a two-way street. Zhao Song then intervenes, confessing that he pursued her relentlessly despite her initial disdain. He humbly acknowledges he is "silly" and doesn't know how to win someone's heart, but he loves her fiercely and cannot bear to see her suffer. He asks his "brothers" to show respect to the woman he loves.
Jingting's centuries of unresponsiveness stand in stark contrast to Zhao Song's unwavering care. In that moment, Qianhua wavers, and her Pearl of Charm glows. Tian Xin idles away her days in her rented apartment. With Jialin attending school, she feels adrift. She has abandoned her job, her studies, and her family, all to accompany Jialin to the US, not even daring to tell her parents the truth. Tian Xin feels she has lost herself for love, leaving her deeply fatigued.
What infuriates her further are the snide remarks from her housemates. They gossip about her, questioning how someone who received an offer from a prestigious company like Aomei could give everything up for a man, assuming she is only there to get a green card. In the hospital, Sumei approaches Xiaoju to apologize to Pippi, stating she only meant it as a joke. Xiaoju reassures her that Pippi would not blame her.
She admits that it was her fault for persuading Pippi, who was initially afraid, to get closer to Jingting, thinking it would be like a fairy tale. Instead, in their story, a kiss almost led to death. Later, Jingting returns to Pippi's room. Pippi, having awakened, asks if she's in a hospital and mentions a long dream she can't recall. Jingting assures her she's fine but needs more rest.
Pippi then jokingly asks what else she shouldn't do around him, given that a mere glance made her sick and a kiss nearly killed her. Jingting confirms there is "one more thing" she cannot do, but reassures her that it has a solution. Back at her apartment, Tian Xin receives a video call from her mother, who asks about her trip. Tian Xin reiterates that it's a graduation trip.
Her mother advises her to prioritize her career, but Tian Xin deflects. After the call, she overhears her housemates gossiping again, expressing disbelief that she would abandon a prestigious offer from Aomei to "accompany" her boyfriend. Later, a female Fox Clan member, apologetic for her earlier rudeness, approaches Qianhua. She notes Qianhua's "human smell," similar to her late husband, who also associated with humans.
She expresses that she never blamed her husband, and now, seeing Qianhua, her husband, and Zhao Song, she realizes they are all "the same," striving for their children and future. Separately, a Fox Clan member delivers news to Jingting: the elders who could translate ancient texts are all gone. This means Princess Zhaoyan is the only one left who can unravel those mysteries, though her fate remains unknown.
Qianhua tells Zhao Song that while she hasn't found Yue Bozhong, she has learned that Princess Zhaoyan doesn't favor Jingting and wishes for Zhao Song to be the next leader. This leads Qianhua to believe that she won't need to seek Yue Bozhong; he will come to them. Just then, Yue Bozhong appears, introducing himself as Princess Zhaoyan's emissary.
Episode 14 Recap
Qianhua, having fled her own wedding, instructed her attendant to inform her father that she had her own plans and to return to the Tushan gens. Meanwhile, Su Mei visited Pipi, apologizing profusely for the trouble Pipi endured, acknowledging that she had been unaware of the full situation. Su Mei admitted to her own selfish motives, noting that Lord Helan had not brought a date home in over a hundred years, which made her anxious to see him with someone.
She expressed her desire to have dinner with Pipi before excusing herself from their conversation with Helan Jingting. Pipi’s discharge formalities from the hospital were complete, and she expressed gratitude to Helan Jingting for covering her expenses. As she prepared to leave, Helan Jingting informed her that due to the taboo triggered by his kiss, it was dangerous for her to return home immediately.
He explained that if they were too far apart, his energy would not be able to protect her, leading to severe consequences such as hair loss and skin ulceration. He suggested she stay at his house for a few days, but Pipi, thinking he was trying to trick her, initially refused. Separately, Bozhong, who had been living as a mute among the Fox Clan, was revealed to Qianhua by Zhao Song.
Qianhua learned Bozhong had been waiting for an opportunity to abolish Helan Jingting as the heir, positioning Qianhua herself as the next in line. However, Qianhua was primarily interested in meeting Princess Zhaoyan to learn about the Gold Flower Mirror and the liver ceremony. Bozhong explained that Princess Zhaoyan had lived in seclusion for years, burdened by guilt over a decision she made a thousand years ago that led to the North-South dispute among the Fox Clan.
He revealed that Princess Zhaoyan would only reappear for major Fox Clan events, such as the succession of a Chief or a Priest’s wedding. Meanwhile, Tian Xin was frustrated, her days feeling empty without Jialin. When Jialin called to say he had finalized his school matters and would be returning to pack, he casually mentioned bringing back some bean paste from home.
This instantly enraged Tian Xin, who interpreted it as a sign that Jialin was still in contact with Pipi. She accused him of secretly calling Pipi in the middle of the night, even though he claimed it was merely to apologize for past events. Tian Xin felt deeply insecure and abandoned, lamenting that she had given up her job offer and best friend for him, yet he had never apologized to her.
She feared he would find someone better or that their relationship wasn't suitable, declaring that she didn't want to end up like Pipi, who she perceived as someone who had been hurt. Back at her home, Pipi woke up to find large clumps of hair on her bed and a bald spot on her head. Panicked, she immediately rushed to Helan Jingting's door, begging him to make her hair grow back.
He acknowledged the severity of the situation, reiterating that her hair would only grow back if she stayed close to him. Pipi, desperate, tried to bargain for less time, even blaming him for the kiss, to which he reminded her that she had initiated it. She followed him everywhere, even to the bathroom door, fearing any distance. He advised her to stay close, as it was the only way for her hair to recover faster.
While they were together, they watched a TV show. Pipi scoffed at the "Marry Sue" trope, finding it unrealistic that an ordinary heroine could be loved by every man. Helan Jingting, however, countered that true love embraced a person regardless of their flaws, demonstrating by repeating cheesy lines from the show about her beauty despite her current baldness.
Su Mei later visited, misinterpreting their closeness and advising Helan Jingting to control his "intensity" when being intimate with Pipi, suggesting she would gradually adapt to his aura. After Helan Jingting trimmed Pipi’s miraculously regrown long hair, she felt a strange warmth from his cold touch. He confirmed she would need to stay with him until the next full moon for a full recovery.
Pipi mused about the complexities of real-world relationships compared to the simplicity of Marry Sue stories, where love lasts forever, and Helan Jingting asked if she would rather live in such a dream. Xiu Xian was visibly upset at Xiaoju’s cafe. When offered a new sandwich, he refused, stating he no longer wanted to eat sandwiches. He noted the similarity between a hamburger and a sandwich, implying his weariness with their current situation.
Xiaoju, seeing his distress, offered to make him a vegetarian sandwich. It was clear that Xiu Xian was struggling with his feelings for Xiaoju, who seemed to be entirely consumed by her affections for Kuanyong, creating an uncomfortable "sandwich" dynamic between the three of them. To make her prolonged stay with Helan Jingting more plausible, Pipi meticulously rehearsed a cover story with him to tell her parents.
She planned to say that a magazine company was conducting a deep-dive interview on her, requiring her to live with Helan Jingting and other staff members at his place to understand her daily life. When they arrived home, Pipi’s parents were initially surprised to see Helan Jingting. Her mother, concerned about her daughter’s overnight absence, questioned him about his profession. Pipi vaguely described him as doing "part-time jobs."
Helan Jingting clarified that he was sensitive to light during the day but could see at night, prompting Pipi's mother to jokingly ask if he did "part-time blind massage." However, upon learning that Helan Jingting resided in the affluent Xianting Street villa area, Pipi’s mother’s demeanor immediately shifted.
Pipi’s father, who had earlier confided in Pipi about her mother’s "Three-No policy" (no borrowing, no treating, no associating with poor relatives) and her tendency to be snobbish while portraying herself as the "bad guy" for the family's benefit, watched as his wife suddenly became overly welcoming to Helan Jingting. Pipi tried to rush Helan Jingting out before her mother could say more, but her mother insisted he stay for tea and fruit, completely won over by his apparent wealth.
Episode 15 Recap
Pipi lay in Jingting’s bed, while he rested in a chair beside it. Jingting offered Pipi some petal water, which she found delicious, stating she wouldn't cook human food for him again but would gladly have him make more petal water for her. She then shared about human teas like chrysanthemum and jasmine, which she used to brew for her tired parents after farm work.
Jingting admitted he wasn't used to human food and boasted that his cooking was far superior, even helping his siblings grow taller than Pipi. Pipi, seemingly still recovering, expressed eagerness to try his food once she was well. Jingting then revealed that Lord Qingmu had mentioned she would recover soon, and Pipi added that she overheard Lord Qingmu discussing "breaking a curse" with someone.
Jingting confirmed that his father had once told him about a medicine that could heal his eyes, but only once he reached adulthood. Pipi remarked on the many Fox Clan legends, including one about the "Flower of the Fox," which has twelve petals and marks individuals who cannot live past their "year of florescence," which is 24 years old. Pipi expressed relief that she did not have such a mark.
Pipi began writing a re-employment application to her previous workplace, acknowledging her past recklessness and lack of understanding regarding gossip magazines. Later, she rushed to the hospital after her former editor-in-chief, Qingtan, went into labor. At the hospital, Pipi met Qingtan’s current partner, Feng Jianguo, the father of the baby, and her ex-husband, Zhang Cheng. Zhang Cheng, who learned of Qingtan's pregnancy after their divorce, jokingly reminded Feng Jianguo to pay alimony for the newborn.
After the successful delivery, Qingtan expressed gratitude to Pipi for her assistance and delight at the prospect of Pipi returning to work. Qingtan encouraged Pipi to pursue a graduate degree, specifically in journalism at Hua Ching University, to advance her career. Pipi, recalling her past failure to even get an undergraduate degree, felt hesitant about such a challenging endeavor. Jingting joined Pipi, who still needed to be near him for her recovery, and he offered encouragement regarding her academic aspirations.
Pipi expressed her fear, stating that the Department of Journalism at Hua Ching University only admits 30 graduate students annually, making her chances seem slim. Jingting reminded her of her past dream to be an environmental journalist, urging her not to give up on her goals, whether in love or work. He accompanied her to a tutoring class, where his striking appearance drew the attention of all the female students.
During the class, when the teacher asked about dialectical materialism, Jingting, despite not having a book, flawlessly recited the complex concepts of unity of opposites, quantitative change, and qualitative change, astonishing the class and the teacher. Back at the magazine office, Pipi began working on the Fang Jinxue case, as instructed by Qingtan. Wang Xuan, her former colleague, approached Pipi, attempting to glean information about Helan Jingting and the Fox Clan.
Pipi, uncomfortable with Wang Xuan's overly friendly demeanor, tried to maintain her distance. Pipi then took the files on Fang Jinxue to Xiaoju’s coffee shop. Unbeknownst to her, Wang Xuan was also there, meeting with Fang Jinxue’s agent. Overhearing their conversation, Pipi learned that Fang Jinxue, a reclusive actress, had not been seen in public since filming the horror movie "Possessed."
The agent speculated that Fang Jinxue might be pregnant, having experienced repeated vomiting on set, and that she was likely at home preparing for a baby. This news deeply upset Xiaoju, who seemed to have a personal connection to Fang Jinxue. Later, Pipi confided in Jingting that she felt someone was following her, though she initially dismissed it as paranoia. Jingting, however, insisted on staying by her side, unwilling to leave her until he was certain she was safe.
Meanwhile, a tense encounter unfolded between Qianhua and Zhao Song. Qianhua proposed a fake marriage to Zhao Song, planned for the following week, as a ploy to draw out Princess Zhaoyan, after which they would immediately divorce. Zhao Song, having endured centuries of unrequited love for Qianhua, erupted in anger. He lamented how Qianhua only cared for Helan Jingting, using him without considering his feelings.
He expressed his pain at being left alone to face the ridicule of all the Fox Clan elders and siblings after such a public spectacle. He had waited centuries for her to turn to him, only to be met with a deception. Later, while fighting with a friend, Zhao Song was so distracted by Qianhua's presence and her attempts to stop him that he was knocked down.
Qianhua rushed to help him up, but he pulled her into a fierce kiss before dramatically announcing to all the gathered Fox Clan members that he was marrying Qianhua. He then asked Qianhua where they should hold their wedding, ignoring her protests that he was drunk. Qianhua later admitted to Zhao Song that her proposal was selfish and that she would find another way to help Helan Jingting if he truly didn't want to go through with the fake marriage.
But Zhao Song, despite his previous anger, declared his willingness to proceed, stating that he now understood that he could do as much for Qianhua as she did for Helan Jingting. The next morning, they began their engagement ceremony, with Uncle Yuan and Uncle Jian among the attendees. Zhao Song gifted Qianhua a traditional, self-made lip paper, reminiscing about the first time he saw her in the great hall.
Princess Zhaoyan was already well aware of the deceptive nature of the planned wedding between Qianhua and Zhao Song. Bozhong reported the details of the impending ceremony to Princess Zhaoyan, who confidently stated her intention to simplify the complicated situation. Separately, Tian Xin, while packing her belongings, confessed to Jialin over the phone that she felt lost in their relationship.
She recalled once looking down on Pipi for sacrificing her life for love but realized that she herself was doing the same, becoming solely "Tao Jialin's girlfriend" rather than "Tian Xin." She expressed her exhaustion and desire to reclaim her identity, asking Jialin if he was willing to be "Tian Xin's boyfriend" instead.
Episode 16 Recap
Helan Jingting, having lived for centuries, impressed Pipi with his vast knowledge of poetry, literature, foreign languages, and even various instruments. Pipi admired him as he meticulously wrote characters with an inkstick. Eager to expand her own knowledge, Pipi searched through Helan Jingting's extensive library for ancient texts. While doing so, she inadvertently discovered a portrait of a woman named Huiyan.
The discovery of the portrait sparked unease within Pipi, making her wonder about this woman Helan Jingting might have loved. Later, Pipi contacted Su Mei by phone, showing her the portrait and asking about Huiyan. Su Mei laughed, explaining that the women in the images, one from the Song Dynasty named Ning Wen and another from the Ming Dynasty named Xiang Ding, were all Pipi's past incarnations, and all of them were Huiyan.
Seeing Pipi’s disbelief, Su Mei began recounting the history of Helan Jingting, which began over nine hundred years ago. Su Mei revealed that Lord Qingmu, the highest leader of the Fox Clan, had fallen in love with a human woman, leading to the birth of Helan Jingting. Because human-fox unions were forbidden, Helan Jingting was born with a weak constitution and was blind.
Though Qingmu was strict with his only child, believing an unhealthy young fox should be abandoned, he kept Helan Jingting. Growing up, Helan Jingting consumed only flower petals, a mystery believed to be linked to his mixed heritage. To cure his blindness, Lord Qingmu sought advice from a master.
The master advised that when Helan Jingting turned seventeen, a Yang year, he should find a human girl with a pure Yang aura, make her fall in love with him, and then, on a pure Yang day, consume her liver to regain his sight. Qingmu arranged for a young girl, Huiyan, to grow up with Helan Jingting. On Helan Jingting’s seventeenth birthday, which was a full moon night, his father, Qingmu, made him drink a soup.
When Helan Jingting later discovered it was made from Huiyan’s liver, he was devastated. He broke ties with his father, vowing revenge for Huiyan. Despite drinking the soup, Helan Jingting’s vision only returned at night, possibly due to his human bloodline. Pipi questioned why Qingmu would let them grow up together if Huiyan was just a medicinal guide.
Su Mei speculated that perhaps Qingmu, having fallen for a human himself, wanted Helan Jingting to experience love and then loss, a harsh lesson against loving humans, ensuring he would never repeat his father's mistake. Helan Jingting was exiled for a century but never forgave his father. He eventually fled to the south, where he amassed power and waged the three-year-long Troubled Times of Zhenyong against Qingmu.
After the war, the Fox Clan split along the 30th parallel north, with Helan Jingting becoming the Right High Priest of the South Fox Clan, while Lord Qingmu appointed his favored student, Zhao Song, as the Left High Priest, ruling the North Fox Clan, setting them as opposing forces. Pipi listened silently, tears streaming down her face as she empathized with everyone in the story, especially Huiyan.
Yet, she struggled to accept that she was Huiyan, stating she was Guan Pipi. She felt a deep insecurity, fearing she was just a shadow of Huiyan, and wanted Helan Jingting to love only her in this lifetime, not the lingering presence of his past love. Meanwhile, at Xiaoju’s cafe, her eccentric mathematician father eagerly presented complex equations to her. Xiaoju, accustomed to his "useless" theories, paid little attention.
Kuan Yong, however, was fascinated and even joined in the calculations, pointing out errors. Xiaoju's father insisted that everything in the world should be like mathematics, with a clear, standard answer, a world of black and white. But Xiaoju disagreed, explaining that some things, especially emotions, don't need to be fully understood or clearly defined; the world of feelings is often ambiguous. Her candid words seemed to lighten the awkwardness among her, Xiu Xian, and Kuan Yong.
Xiu Xian, teasingly, offered to let Xiaoju live with him and Kuan Yong in their house when she grew old. Xiaoju playfully refused, reminding them that as a fox, she wouldn't age, and would look the same even when Xiu Xian and Kuan Yong were old men. At the Fox Clan's Northern territory, Qian Hua, dressed in a beautiful white wedding gown, met with Zhao Song.
While Zhao Song expressed his desire for a real wedding and a bride who truly loved him, he acknowledged that their current arrangement was a staged event. Qian Hua reminded him that she had been through a similar fake wedding for Helan Jingting before. Their plan was to draw out Princess Zhaoyan.
Zhao Song promised Qian Hua that if Princess Zhaoyan didn't appear by the end of the ceremony, he would find an excuse to cancel it, sparing Qian Hua and the Tushan family further shame. He confessed that his initial act of giving her the Pearl of Charm was selfish, but his current desire for a genuine union was heartfelt. He vowed to continue pursuing Qian Hua, hoping she would one day willingly marry him.
Just as Zhao Song left, Bozhong arrived, accompanied by Princess Zhaoyan. Princess Zhaoyan, famous for her powerful aura, immediately sensed the underlying intentions. She directly addressed Qian Hua, acknowledging that Qian Hua’s true purpose for the wedding was to save the human girl afflicted by the Flower of the Fox. Princess Zhaoyan stated her conditions for revealing how to save the girl: Qian Hua must marry Zhao Song.
Regardless of whether their love was real or feigned, Princess Zhaoyan insisted that Qian Hua bearing Zhao Song’s name as the Left High Priestess was the only way for Zhao Song to legitimately lead the Fox Clan. Suddenly, Zhao Song re-entered, demanding an explanation from Princess Zhaoyan and ordering the wedding canceled. He loudly declared to his father, Lord Qingmu, that their marriage was a pretense solely intended to lure Princess Zhaoyan.
Qingmu angrily rebuked Zhao Song, accusing him of breaking off an engagement he had personally arranged for Qian Hua and Helan Jingting, and accusing Zhao Song of always loving Qian Hua and plotting against Helan Jingting. Zhao Song, fueled by resentment, retorted that he couldn't get anything because he wasn’t Qingmu’s biological son, throwing back the gifts Qingmu had given him and asserting his freedom to love whomever he pleased.
Qingmu, enraged, declared that Zhao Song could love anyone but Qian Hua, insisting she must marry Helan Jingting, whom he referred to as "Axi." Zhao Song, furious, questioned Qingmu's extreme favoritism towards Helan Jingting, whom he called a "hybrid." Back with Qian Hua, Princess Zhaoyan confirmed that she knew about Qian Hua's plan because Bozhong had approached her earlier.
Qian Hua explained her reasoning: Helan Jingting, as the Right High Priest, had long opposed Lord Qingmu, causing the Fox Clan to split and advocating for integration with humans, which directly countered Princess Zhaoyan’s beliefs. In contrast, Zhao Song aligned with Zhaoyan's views, making him a more suitable heir. Qian Hua believed that her marriage to Zhao Song would garner support from the northern Fox Clan families, pressuring Qingmu to change his successor. Princess Zhaoyan complimented Qian Hua’s intelligence but revealed that there was also a personal reason for her targeting Helan Jingting: Helan Jingting was her sister Princess Xiyan's son.
Episode 17 Recap
Centuries ago, Xi Yan defied her family and broke her engagement with Qingmu to pursue a relationship with a human, Helan Jingming. She married him and gave birth to their son, Helan Xi, whose courtesy name was Jingting. Xi Yan secretly returned to the Fox Clan’s home, collecting her gold and silver jewelry and precious treasures as gifts for her human mother-in-law. Qingmu, who still deeply cared for her, was saddened by her humble demeanor.
He warned her that not all humans would be as kind as Jingming, but Xi Yan remained completely devoted. Despite being constantly scorned by her mother-in-law and even persuaded to steal a valuable Gold Flower Mirror from a neighbor, Xi Yan did not hesitate for love. When she was caught stealing the Gold Flower Mirror, Xi Yan transformed into a wisp of smoke and vanished.
The next day, the neighbor confronted the Helan family, publicly demanding that Xi Yan drink realgar wine, a substance fatal to foxes. To protect the Helan family’s reputation and Jingming’s future, Xi Yan consumed the wine, which burned her from the inside. In her final moments, she realized the insurmountable gap between humans and foxes and that a mythical creature could never find a true home in the human world.
She returned to the Fox Clan with infant Jingting, entrusting him to the care of Qingmu, who loved her unconditionally. Although Xi Yan never reciprocated Qingmu’s affection, he dedicated everything to her last wish. He gave Jingting his courtesy name, bestowed wealth upon him, and even fabricated a revered identity for him – that he was Qingmu’s own son. Jingting, having human blood, was frail and suffered from blindness.
This forced Qingmu to reveal the truth to Princess Zhaoyan, Xi Yan's sister. While Xi Yan had loved humans dearly, Princess Zhaoyan harbored deep resentment, blaming humans for her sister’s death and for encroaching on their territory. However, seeing the helpless, orphaned infant, Zhaoyan couldn't bring herself to abandon him, especially since he was her own sister’s flesh and blood.
She then advised Qingmu that Jingting could regain his night vision by falling in love with a pure Yang human girl and consuming her liver on a Yang day of a Yang month in a Yang year. To fully restore his daytime vision, he would also need to marry a Fox Clan girl of pure lineage, whose union on their wedding night would cleanse the impure human blood from his body.
Upon hearing this, Qian Hua finally understood that Qingmu’s care for her was only because she was meant to be a “medicine” – a cure for Jingting’s eyes. For this half-human, half-fox child, who was not related to him, Qingmu had gone to great lengths, even alienating many. The depth of Qingmu’s love for Xi Yan was immeasurable. With the truth revealed, Princess Zhaoyan no longer concealed her intentions.
She regretted saving Jingting, which she believed led to the Fox Clan's division and the suffering of the human girl and Qian Hua. She sought to atone for these mistakes by preventing Jingting from ascending to the position of Chief Priest and by allowing Huiyan to live a complete life.
The only way to make the Flower of the Fox disappear from Huiyan and grant her a new life was for Jingting to willingly sacrifice himself and return the energy within him to Huiyan. This method was too cruel, and Qian Hua hesitated. Knowing Jingting’s probable choice, she couldn’t bear it and decided to keep the secret to herself, burdened and exhausted. Zhao Song was oblivious to Qian Hua’s secrets, her pain, or her decision to marry him.
All he knew was that his desperate pleas to Qingmu for affection had gone unanswered. Resentment consumed Zhao Song’s remaining reason. On what should have been a peaceful night, Zhao Song, in a fit of rage and despair, forced himself on Qian Hua, whose desperate cries filled the night. All the plans she had prepared could no longer be spoken. The next day, Zhao Song and Qian Hua began their journey back to the South.
Qian Hua, unable to hide the physical and emotional wounds or forgive Zhao Song’s transgression, remained silent. Their relationship was irrevocably broken. Zhao Song pleaded with her, longing for her to turn back and join him on a new path, abandoning all thoughts of fame, status, or being the Fox Clan’s priest. However, Qian Hua, carrying the fate of everyone in her heart, could not afford to delay and was determined to return to the South.
Her urgent desire to leave led Zhao Song to mistakenly believe she was rushing back to Jingting’s embrace. This time, Zhao Song resolved to disrupt the balance: either Qian Hua would stay with him, or Jingting would die. Ultimately, Qian Hua walked away amidst Zhao Song’s curses, igniting murderous intent in him. Meanwhile, Pipi struggled to accept that she was Huiyan, feeling like a mere shadow of the woman Jingting truly loved.
This felt unfair, as she had given her heart entirely to Jingting. She packed her bags and returned home, only to be confronted by her mother at the door, asking for money. Under Pipi's questioning, her mother timidly admitted to borrowing nearly ten thousand yuan from Jialin to invest in financial products. Overwhelmed, Pipi put aside thoughts of Jingting and focused on finding a part-time job to earn money. By chance, she found work as a server at a bar.
Jingting, confused by Pipi's sudden departure, followed her to ensure her safety. Later, Pipi confided in a friend about the ancient paintings she found in Jingting’s room. The woman in the paintings looked exactly like her but wore clothes from different dynasties. Pipi explained that she had asked another friend, Su Mei, who told her the women in the paintings were the same person—Pipi herself from different eras—implying reincarnation.
While her current friend found this fascinating and even romantic, suggesting Jingting was trying to help her regain lost memories, Pipi couldn't accept it. She felt there was someone else in his heart, and she was merely her shadow. Her friend offered to treat them to dinner for Pipi's birthday, but Pipi had to go to her 5:30 class and declined.
Qian Hua spoke with Helan Jingting on the phone, confirming she had obtained the answers they sought from Princess Zhaoyan and would report the details to him in person soon. She mentioned she had decided to return to the South. After the call, Zhao Song confronted Qian Hua. He tried to tell her something important, but she cut him off.
He confessed anyway that for years he thought he desired the leader's throne above all else, but now realized it was her he truly wanted. He declared that if he couldn't have Qian Hua or the throne, Jingting wouldn’t either. Qian Hua responded that she was obsessed with Jingting because he would never hurt her the way Zhao Song had. Zhao Song warned her that if she left, he would destroy Jingting. As Qian Hua walked away, Zhao Song, consumed by rage, solidified his resolve to ruin Jingting.
Episode 18 Recap
Pipi has been avoiding Helan Jingting, grappling with her identity and past life as Huiyan, which makes her unable to fully embrace her feelings for him. Helan Jingting, however, continues to follow her, whether she's attending class or working at the bar. One day at the university, Pipi's friends comment on Helan Jingting's handsomeness.
Pipi, feeling conflicted, describes a hypothetical scenario to her friends: if her "boyfriend" kept photos of multiple ex-girlfriends who all resembled her, she would feel like a mere substitute. This analogy reflects her deeper frustration and fear that Helan Jingting views her as merely a reincarnation of Huiyan. She then tells Helan Jingting directly not to follow her, as it distracts her. Helan Jingting, in turn, attempts to call Qianhua, leaving a message on her voicemail.
One evening at the bar where Pipi works as a waitress, she accidentally spills wine on a patron, who then demands she drink a glass of strong liquor as an apology. Pipi, who cannot drink, is pressured to comply. Just as she raises the glass, Helan Jingting intervenes, takes the glass, and, enduring immense discomfort from consuming human alcohol, drinks the entire glass himself. Despite this, the patron is not appeased and insists that both Pipi and Helan Jingting apologize.
For Pipi's safety, Helan Jingting, though blameless, bows down and apologizes to the patron. Witnessing Helan Jingting’s devotion, Pipi remains deeply conflicted, questioning whether his love is truly for her or for Huiyan. Later, Pipi finds Helan Jingting outside, vomiting due to the alcohol. Feeling remorseful, she finally articulates her recent emotional turmoil, revealing that her frustration stems from her confusion about his past relationships and her identity as Huiyan.
Helan Jingting, overjoyed by her honesty, pulls her into a tight embrace. He clarifies that while she and Huiyan are intrinsically linked, he has always loved "her". Despite her lingering confusion about his deep affection, Pipi admits that she has fallen for him, Helan Jingting. She expresses her feelings of unfairness, lamenting that if she is Huiyan, she doesn't share the "hundreds of years of memory" that he possesses.
If she is not Huiyan, then he has spent years with others while only months with her. Pipi just wants to create new memories unique to their relationship. Interrupting her, Helan Jingting proposes, asking her to marry him. The next morning, Pipi escorts Helan Jingting back to his residence before dawn. They discover Qianhua waiting for them. Sensing the need for privacy, Pipi quickly excuses herself, claiming she needs to return home to change clothes.
Once Pipi leaves, Helan Jingting inquires about Qianhua's sudden return. Qianhua reveals she has been back for days and apologizes for the delay. She then directly informs Helan Jingting that she knows a way to save Huiyan, as revealed by Princess Zhaoyan. Qianhua pleads with him to consider waiting for a less drastic cure that might emerge in the "next century" or even "the one after the next," expressing her belief that Huiyan will reappear.
However, Helan Jingting firmly states that Huiyan is dead and that his priority is to save Guan Pipi, who "can't wait" for a distant solution. Tearfully, Qianhua accepts his decision and promises her support. It's September 11th, Xiaoju’s birthday. She buys a cake, hoping to celebrate with her father, Xin Limin. However, as she approaches their home, her father rushes out, engrossed in his scientific equations, heading to Hua Ching University to meet his colleague, Uncle Genjiang.
He completely forgets her birthday. Later, Xiaoju's friends, Xiuxian and Kuanyong, surprise her with a cake. Xiaoju is touched and surprised, unaware that Xiuxian knew her birthday because he noticed it marked on a calendar. During their celebration at a cafe, Kuanyong asks Xiaoju about her mother.
Xiaoju reveals a painful family secret: her mother had a seven-year affair with another man, an "uncle" who was kind and made her mother happy, a happiness Xiaoju never saw her mother express at home. Xiaoju confesses her confusion and hurt at her mother's ability to maintain two relationships, feeling that her mother had hurt everyone, including herself. She wonders if openness and honesty would have led to a happier outcome for all involved.
The next day, Xin Limin gets into another fight over his research manuscript and is injured, requiring hospitalization. Xiaoju receives a call from the hospital but initially denies knowing him, dismissing it as a "crank call." However, she eventually goes to the hospital, accompanied by Kuanyong and Xiuxian. At the hospital, Xiaoju angrily confronts her father about his reckless behavior and his obsession with his work, which often leads him to neglect her or get into altercations.
She expresses her frustration that his notebook seems more important than her. Kuanyong advises Xiaoju to reconcile with her father, noting that both she and Xin Limin struggle to express their true feelings, often pretending indifference while secretly caring deeply. He suggests that their inability to communicate makes them hurt each other. Xin Limin, in turn, gives Xiaoju a birthday gift he bought from a boutique near her school.
Although Xiaoju playfully feigns dissatisfaction, saying she's not a little girl anymore and it's not her birthday, she is visibly moved and tearfully accepts the gift, a sign of their reconciliation. Kuanyong and Xiuxian exchange a knowing smile, witnessing the touching moment. Pipi sees Tian Xin at school and later calls Xiaoju, who confirms Tian Xin's return. Xiaoju reveals that she recently encountered Tao Jialin at the hospital.
In a flashback, it's shown that Jialin was at the hospital to pick up medication for his father's high blood pressure, while Xiaoju was there for her own father’s medicine. Jialin informs Xiaoju that he and Tian Xin have broken up and subtly inquires about Pipi. Xiaoju, fiercely protective of Pipi, vehemently tells Jialin that Pipi is happy and doesn’t need his apology, especially not for his own peace of mind or an attempt to win her back.
Xiaoju criticizes Jialin for his cowardice, pointing out that he lacked the courage to tell Pipi when he fell for her best friend, showing a lack of respect for both Pipi and their relationship. She emphasizes that Pipi has moved on and has a boyfriend. Jialin acknowledges this, feeling a sense of deep regret.
Fang Jinxue watches her baby in an incubator, listening as doctors regretfully inform her that they have exhausted all options for her child's rare disease, and she should prepare for the worst. Overwhelmed with grief, she tells Bozhong that she used the Gold Flower Mirror as Princess Zhaoyan instructed, but cannot decipher the characters displayed on it. Bozhong reveals that the text holds the key to saving her child, though the method is "cruel."
Desperate, Fang Jinxue insists she will do anything, even die, to save her baby. Bozhong explains that while she doesn't need to die, "someone else" does. He recounts how Helan, a human-fox hybrid, was saved at birth by Princess Zhaoyan using a human girl's liver. Bozhong claims that the same human's liver can now cure her child, instructing her to kill Pipi, extract her liver, and make a medicinal soup for the baby.
Horrified, Fang Jinxue asks if there’s no other way, reluctant to commit murder, especially given that Pipi wears Helan Jingting’s Pearl of Charm, which would incur his wrath. Bozhong counters that Pipi is fated to die before her twenty-fifth birthday anyway and has a "chance to be reborn," a luxury her child does not possess. This revelation weighs heavily on Fang Jinxue, who is torn by the impossible choice, as Bozhong presses her to act quickly for her child's sake.
Episode 19 Recap
Helan Jingting was resolute in his commitment to Pipi, determined to break the recurring cycle where every incarnation of Huiyan met her end in his arms. This time, he refused to let regret linger, vowing to embrace Pipi for all eternity. Pipi, her heart fluttering, held Jingting’s hand as they headed to her home. Jingting was taking Xiu Xian and Kuanyong along to meet Pipi’s parents and propose marriage.
Earlier that day, Xiu Xian and Kuanyong, having binge-watched countless family dramas, prepared lavish gifts like real estate deeds and jewelry, intending to bribe Pipi’s supposedly greedy mother-in-law. Pipi, flustered by the sight of the elaborate gifts, quickly stopped them. Instead, they simply bought some apples and went home. In the dimly lit living room, everyone sat uncomfortably. Pipi’s mother chewed on an apple Jingting brought, her eyes full of suspicion.
Xiu Xian and Kuanyong sat stiffly, their backs straight, offering forty-five-degree model-like smiles. Jingting’s anxious demeanor only heightened Pipi’s mother’s wariness. Breaking the silence, Jingting forthrightly proposed to Pipi in front of her parents. Pipi’s mother, usually pragmatic, considered her daughter’s future. She expressed concern about a man Pipi had only recently met, fearing he might abandon her or not be the steadfast support Pipi needed.
Jingting, however, earnestly reaffirmed that becoming Pipi’s lifelong pillar of support would be his greatest joy. Pipi’s mother found his answer satisfactory but, out of caution, suggested they get engaged first to allow more time to understand each other. This decision both astonished and moved Pipi, realizing her seemingly materialistic mother genuinely cared for her family’s happiness above all else.
Meanwhile, reporter Wang Xuan was jostled to the ground by a throng of competitors while trying to get a scoop on popular actress Wu Xinru, who was allegedly involved in an insider trading scandal with her ex-husband, Liu Changming. Zhao Song helped Wang Xuan up, questioning the value of the Wu Xinru story.
He suggested she wait at Wu Xinru’s hotel room door, as he lived on the same floor, and offered his room card for her to leave it there before 7 AM. Wang Xuan, intrigued, told him she was interested in him. Later, Wang Xuan met Zhao Song at a rooftop restaurant. She initially stated she only accepted his invitation because her afternoon interview had gone well.
Zhao Song, however, gently persuaded her to stay, offering a gift and admitting his habit of making unilateral decisions, but promising to seek her opinion next time. He confessed to being an orphan who had always had to rely on himself, much like Wang Xuan who struggled to succeed in a harsh world. He noted their shared experience of having to be tough to survive. Wang Xuan, touched by his words, toasted him, acknowledging the world’s cruelty.
As Zhao Song walked a tipsy Wang Xuan back to her hotel, he carefully put her to bed and then left to get another room, respecting her boundaries. This act of chivalry completely won Wang Xuan over.
The next morning, she gave Zhao Song the recording pen from their dinner and a collection of incriminating photos, revealing her creed as a reporter was "to achieve the goal by any means necessary," but admitting there were now "some things" she wanted to protect. Zhao Song reassured her he meant no harm and instructed her to eat breakfast, implying she would understand everything once she got to her office.
Wang Xuan then called her editor, emailing a new article for the front page, presumably the scoop she had been pursuing. Later, at the cafe where Pipi worked, Tao Jialin appeared. He apologized for coming to her workplace, having heard she was working late hours. Pipi, in turn, apologized for her mother borrowing money from him, promising to repay it.
Jialin expressed concern about Pipi’s new boyfriend, recalling an earlier incident at a nightclub, and admitted his relationship with Tian Xin had deteriorated after they went to America. Pipi, however, confirmed her new boyfriend was "very good" and asked Jialin if he hated her. He said no. When he asked if she still liked him, Pipi, after a moment, recalled a childhood letter he wrote to her.
She admitted that while she had once fantasized about him proposing, she could no longer imagine that scene and "supposed" she didn’t like him anymore. When Jialin asked if she loved her new boyfriend, Pipi unequivocally stated, "I love him." Jialin, defeated, suggested they remain friends, but Pipi said she needed time to think and had to return to work. As she left, Jialin offered to do anything to make amends.
At the same time, Wang Xuan received a package—a USB drive. Intrigued, she opened it, her eyes widening with surprise and glee. Finding herself alone, she quickly transmitted the contents. Reflecting on her journey, Pipi realized that losing her past relationship with Jialin had led to greater gains, making her braver, more independent, and more sincere. She had become a better person, and consequently, met a better person. She acknowledged Jialin, even if their friendship couldn't continue.
Episode 20 Recap
Pipi met with Tian Xin, revealing that she had broken up with Jialin. Pipi explained that after moving to America, she realized she was constantly consumed by jealousy and suspicion, stemming from her and Jialin's past betrayal of Tian Xin. She felt that Jialin was still fixated on Tian Xin, leading to frequent arguments and a difficult relationship. Pipi confessed that she believed the love between her and Jialin had ended the moment her friendship with Tian Xin did.
Tian Xin expressed her regret, stating that while there was nothing wrong with loving someone, Pipi owed her an apology for not disclosing that Tian Xin's boyfriend no longer loved her, especially as Pipi was her best friend. Tian Xin then elaborated that Pipi hadn't truly known Jialin, seeing him as an idealized figure rather than a real person with vulnerabilities. Tian Xin pointed out that Pipi had done little for Jialin in their relationship.
Despite the difficult conversation, Pipi expressed her hope that they could all move forward and remain friends. Later, Wang Xuan met with her boss, who praised her recent report, noting that it had made their publication, Xincheng Focus, a true "focus." He informed her that Zhang Dan, the host and producer of "Today Topic," was very interested in her work and had invited her for an exclusive interview the following day.
Wang Xuan, feeling nervous, suggested her boss go instead, but he emphasized it was a valuable opportunity for her, especially since they were short-staffed due to a colleague's maternity leave. Wang Xuan then called Zhao Song, who confirmed his involvement in securing her the interview, mentioning that he had spoken to Zhang Dan, a friend of his.
He also hinted that the attention was largely due to the "big news" he had provided her on a USB drive the previous morning. Zhao Song also gave her new clothes for the TV appearance, intending for her to be remembered by the audience. He then showed her images, claiming they were photos of Ciel Group, Qian Hua's company, conducting animal experiments.
Wang Xuan expressed skepticism, stating that Ciel Group was known for not using animals in testing, but Zhao Song simply told her to decide what to do with the information. Meanwhile, at Pipi's family home, Xiu Xian and Kuanyong were with Mr. Xin. Mr. Xin shared a philosophical insight about how humans, like variables, constantly change, suggesting that some answers might come naturally over time. He humorously alluded to the fox clan, which amused Xiu Xian and Xiaoju.
Qian Hua visited Pipi, apologizing for her unannounced arrival. Qian Hua revealed a crucial truth: Pipi was the reincarnation of Shen Huiyan, who had sacrificed herself to heal Helan's eyes and was marked by the Flower of the Fox, destined to restart her life every 25 years. Qian Hua explained that Helan had been searching for a way to save Pipi's life and ensure its completion, and a method had finally been found in their current era.
However, this solution came at a grave cost: if Helan saved Pipi, he would die, as his death was necessary for Pipi's energy to be fully restored. The grim condition for this exchange was that Helan and Pipi must be deeply in love. Pipi, horrified, questioned if Helan was aware of this and if he had already decided to sacrifice himself.
Qian Hua confessed her reluctance to see either of them perish but admitted that if forced to choose, she would prioritize Helan. Pipi, in despair, acknowledged that she also did not want Helan to die. She then reiterated the cruel condition: they had to be in love for Helan to save her life. Following this revelation, Jialin visited Helan Jingting. He introduced himself as Pipi's good friend, though Jingting recognized him from earlier encounters.
Jialin, feigning concern, offered unsolicited advice about Pipi's habits and preferences, such as her preference for walking on the left, setting the air conditioner to 26 degrees, and her fondness for orange juice. He confessed that Pipi was his most important friend despite their breakup and expressed his concern for her well-being with Jingting, given that he was Pipi's only previous boyfriend. Jialin urged Jingting not to hurt Pipi as he once had. Jingting assured him he would not.
During their conversation, Jingting received a call from Pipi. She hung up abruptly after a brief, tense exchange. Later, Pipi called Jialin, reminding him of his promise to do anything to atone for hurting her in the past. She then asked him for a favor. Subsequently, Pipi confronted Helan, confessing that she had thought deeply and realized she was still in love with Jialin. Helan immediately sensed her insincerity, telling her she was a bad actress.
Pipi insisted she was serious, claiming their relationship was a deception and that she had used his affection to heal her own emptiness. She apologized, but Helan refused to believe her, stating their connection felt genuine. Pipi then cruelly told him that despite his good qualities, he wasn't Jialin, and ultimately, he wasn't human, making a future together impossible. Helan, heartbroken, respected her decision but demanded she look him in the eye and say she didn't love him.
Pipi repeated the words, "I don't love you," multiple times until Helan acquiesced. With a heavy heart, she then asked him to remove the Pearl of Charm from her. Helan questioned her certainty, but Pipi simply reminded him of his promise to help her. Wang Xuan appeared on the "Today Topic" show with Zhang Dan. She passionately defended the role of entertainment journalists, asserting that while public opinion might be biased, their work provided necessary exposure and accountability.
She claimed her investigations aimed to reveal truths useful to society, particularly regarding instances of deception. When prompted for examples, Wang Xuan specifically named Ciel Group. She alleged that despite the brand's claims of natural ingredients and cruelty-free practices, her investigation had uncovered evidence of Ciel Group conducting animal experiments. Simultaneously, Ciel Group plunged into crisis.
Qian Hua's employee informed her of the live broadcast, which showed videos of animal testing at their facilities, causing immediate backlash from animal rights groups and demands for an investigation from the Bureau of Quality Supervision. Qian Hua decided to face the bureau personally, but her employee reminded her that many of their product formulas contained secret Fox Clan ingredients, which could not be revealed to humans.
Prioritizing the Fox Clan's safety, Qian Hua made the painful decision to destroy all sensitive formula documents, accepting the loss of her company rather than risking exposure of the clan's secrets. News reports quickly spread, showing footage of furious crowds confronting Qian Hua, accusing her of being a "profiteer" and dousing her with water. Separately, Zhao Song placed a call, hinting at the troubles faced by "Long Hua, Qian Hua," and other individuals.
He claimed ignorance of the specific events but noted that those affected were all supporters of Helan Jingting, subtly asserting his influence behind the scenes. Meanwhile, back at Jingting's residence, Xiu Xian speculated about Pipi's character, suggesting she had used Helan as a "stand-by lover." Kuanyong staunchly defended Pipi, dismissing Xiu Xian's accusations. However, when news of Qian Hua's company crisis broke, Helan called them to check on her, and they rushed to Qian Hua's side.
Finding her distraught, they offered their support. Qian Hua explained that the scandal was instigated by Wang Xuan, a journalist who had previously interviewed her and was a colleague of Pipi's. Xiu Xian immediately jumped to the conclusion that Pipi and Wang Xuan had conspired. However, Qian Hua, now aware of Pipi’s breakup with Helan, understood Pipi’s painful motives.
She forcefully silenced Xiu Xian's wild accusations, stating he didn't understand the full truth and that Pipi had her reasons, though she couldn't reveal them. Observing Qian Hua's distress, Kuanyong suspected a deeper truth was hidden. He calmed Xiu Xian, deciding to approach Wang Xuan to uncover the full story.
Episode 21 Recap
Centuries ago, an extraterrestrial civilization, the Fox Clan, migrated to Earth from their collapsing galaxy. Over time, they evolved to resemble humans and integrated into human society, often concealing their true identities due to a history of conflict and misunderstanding.
In a flashback, a young Fox Clan member named Huiyan desperately pleaded with an older member to revive a crucial flower but was warned that such an act would severely harm the helper and shorten their lifespan, while risking the wrath of Lord Qingmu. This established a core theme of defying rules to preserve life, foreshadowing future struggles. Guan Pipi enthusiastically prepared for an interview with celebrity Fang Jinxue.
Before heading out, Pipi met with Tao Jialin to return a large sum of money her mother had borrowed from him, insisting that "correct counting keeps good friendship." Jialin accepted the repayment, then inquired about her recent breakup with Helan, noting that Pipi had previously expressed deep love for him. Pipi explained that sometimes, despite love, it’s better to separate if there's no future, to avoid hurting each other further.
Jialin remarked that Pipi seemed to have become more confident and brave. As Pipi rushed off for her interview, she accidentally left her wallet behind. Jialin picked it up, intending to return it to her. Pipi arrived at Fang Jinxue's deserted restaurant, apologizing for her slight delay. Fang Jinxue claimed she had agreed to the interview to publicly address recent online slanders.
Pipi asked why the restaurant was closed, and Fang Jinxue revealed she had shut it down and planned to sell it, wanting to dedicate more time to her child. Fang Jinxue then began to behave erratically, cutting her own hand and speaking as if she were Li Xin, the character she played in the film "Possessed," who made a deal with a devil to save her child.
As Fang Jinxue became increasingly unhinged, believing her actions were for her child, she suddenly attacked Pipi with the bloodied knife. Just as the knife was about to strike Pipi, Jialin burst in, having followed Pipi to return her wallet. He bravely shielded Pipi, taking the knife wound himself. Pipi, seizing the moment, helped the injured Jialin flee the restaurant, with Fang Jinxue in pursuit.
Pipi rushed Jialin to the hospital, but doctors were baffled by his rapidly deteriorating condition, noting severe anemia, clotting issues, and high potassium, despite normal scans. One doctor recognized the symptoms, recalling a similar patient from a previous case – Guan Pipi herself. Seeing her own name on the medical records, Pipi realized Jialin's injury was connected to the Fox Clan and knew she had to seek their help.
She desperately called, and the phone was answered by Xiaoju, who then passed it to Xiu Xian. Initially, Xiu Xian was reluctant, reminding Pipi that he wasn't a hospital and couldn't help with knife wounds. However, when Pipi explained that Jialin was injured by Fang Jinxue and his condition resembled her own previous mysterious ailment, Xiu Xian's curiosity was piqued.
Xiaoju and Kuanyong further convinced a resistant Xiu Xian to go to the hospital, arguing that Jialin had been injured while saving Pipi, and there might be something serious and "awkward" about the situation. At the hospital, Pipi recounted the attack to Xiu Xian and Xiaoju, confirming that while Fang Jinxue used a simple knife, it had Fang Jinxue's blood on it, which she had self-inflicted.
Upon hearing this, Xiu Xian and Kuanyong grimly stated that if fox blood entered a human body, there was no cure. Pipi, distraught, then asked if Helan could save Jialin. Xiaoju blurted out that Helan certainly could. Xiu Xian, still resentful, muttered about Pipi seeking help for Jialin, whom he scornfully referred to as her "cheating and two-timing ex-boyfriend."
However, Kuanyong intervened, revealing that when Pipi was previously hospitalized, he saw a similar case with Fang Jinxue's signature as the family member, suggesting Fang Jinxue had a hybrid child with a congenital defect, and had even asked him to raise it if something happened to her. He speculated that Fang Jinxue might be trying to emulate Lord Qingmu's forbidden methods. Realizing the gravity of the situation, they decided to take Jialin to Helan. They brought Jialin to Helan's residence.
Xiaoju explained that no one could disturb Helan while he was healing. As Helan began the arduous task, Pipi learned from Xiaoju the true cost: Helan would not only lose all his power but could potentially lose his life to save Jialin. Pipi was heartbroken and riddled with guilt upon hearing this. After a long, anxious wait, Helan emerged, visibly weakened and exhausted, but assured them he was fine.
He instructed them to check on Jialin, who was still unconscious but stable. Pipi immediately apologized to Helan for the immense sacrifice he made, but he gently brushed it off, telling her not to worry. As Xiu Xian and Kuanyong prepared to take Jialin back, Pipi decided to stay behind to care for the frail Helan.
Xiu Xian, after seeing the deep concern in Pipi’s eyes for Helan, convinced a reluctant Xiaoju to leave with him and Kuanyong, understanding the couple needed space. That night, Pipi stayed by Helan’s side, comforting him as he shivered. The next morning, Pipi tried to dismiss their intimate night as "just impulse" and declared they should lead separate lives, thanking him for saving Jialin. Helan, however, saw through her pretense.
He reminded her that her previous attempt to sacrifice her life for him was not saving but "murder." Pipi tearfully confessed she couldn't bear to watch him die for her, echoing the pain of losing a loved one she wished to avoid. Helan spoke of wanting her to have a complete life.
Pipi then passionately declared that even if she lived less than 25 years, her life would be complete if she could be his wife, whether for months or mere days. Helan, realizing her profound love and acceptance, reflected on how meeting "that person" who cares for you truly completes one's world. Later, Xiu Xian, Xiaoju, and Kuanyong returned.
Xiu Xian, confused by the turn of events, jokingly summarized that Pipi had dumped Helan, then returned for help, and now all was well. Kuanyong, however, corrected him, stating that they had all misunderstood Pipi and that she had her reasons. Pipi then thanked them all for saving Jialin. Helan then surprised everyone with an announcement: he and Pipi were getting married.
Xiaoju gasped in delight, overjoyed for Pipi, and immediately began to enthusiastically plan the entire wedding, offering to handle all the details so Helan and Pipi could enjoy their time together. Pipi, with tears of joy, expressed her desire for the wedding to be "the sooner the better." Pipi spent cherished moments with her parents, enjoying their warm family time. She informed them she would be busy with Helan and his friends over the weekend.
She also discreetly handed her mother two insurance policies, telling her they were for "financial management," a subtle way of preparing for her uncertain future. Her parents were pleased to see her being responsible. Meanwhile, Fang Jinxue was confronted by Bozhong. She remorsefully apologized for failing to harm Pipi, then desperately pleaded for another way to save her child, mentioning the Gold Flower Mirror.
Bozhong scornfully dismissed the mirror as "scrap iron," revealing he had deliberately deceived her about its powers. When Fang Jinxue realized she had been manipulated into killing, she expressed a desire to see Princess Zhaoyan. Bozhong, however, brutally insulted her hybrid child, stating that Princess Zhaoyan wanted no "hybrids" in the world. He then heartlessly killed Fang Jinxue. Zhao Song arrived shortly after, shocked by Bozhong's callous act.
Bozhong explained that he had used Fang Jinxue as a tool to provoke Helan into self-sacrifice, aiming to gain the Fox Clan leader's attention. He scoffed at Zhao Song's "softheartedness," asserting that one could not achieve greatness by being a "dabbler" – wanting to be both good and bad.
Episode 22 Recap
Jialin remained hospitalized, with Pipi as his sole visitor. Despite the emergency that led to his shock, Jialin retained memories of being taken by Pipi's friends to Jingting's home and receiving treatment from him. This revelation caused Pipi a flicker of fear, but Jialin calmly assured her that he would keep this secret, regardless of the full truth. When the conversation shifted to Tian Xin, Jialin's gaze became evasive.
He confessed his reluctance to face his former lover, especially in front of someone he had betrayed. Pipi, however, expressed no resentment, instead conveying a desire to use their limited time to help friends resolve their emotional conflicts. Pipi reminded Jialin of their painful breakup, recalling his explanation that she wasn't the right fit for him, leading him to choose Tian Xin. Now, after their separation, he was again using a similar excuse for his relationship with Tian Xin.
Pipi pressed him to confront the issue directly, asserting that their past relationship was too significant to be dismissed with a mere platitude. Shortly after, Pipi called Tian Xin, suggesting she offer some comfort to Jialin in the hospital. Tian Xin was moved to tears by the unexpected call from her old friend. Pipi frankly admitted that she wasn't Jialin's destined partner, and that she had once tried to emulate Tian Xin to overcome her own insecurities.
Now, having moved past that phase, she saw a potential for a happy ending for Tian Xin and Jialin. Inspired by Pipi's candidness, Tian Xin decided she could no longer avoid Jialin, acknowledging that some matters, even if understood, require a formal closure. Xiaoju, Xiu Xian, and Kuanyong busily planned Pipi's wedding. They learned of an ancient promise between Huiyan and Jingting, made centuries ago, to marry on the water, beneath the moon.
Xiaoju was enchanted by the idea, making finding a suitable water source their immediate priority. As they discussed practicalities, they indulged in humorous fantasies about their own past lives, each from their unique perspective. Their amusing and delightful scenarios brought laughter, though Xiu Xian and Kuanyong's visions hinted at diverging paths, with Xiu Xian dryly remarking his role as an "extra character" in Kuanyong's happy ending.
At this moment, standing at a metaphorical crossroads, Xiaoju realized the answer to a question that had consumed her thoughts for a long time. Instead of excitement or joy, this realization brought a sense of overwhelming bewilderment. Qingmu approached Jingting, offering his heartfelt congratulations on his impending marriage. Jingting, in turn, expressed years of apology to Qingmu, revealing that Qianhua had shared the full truth about Qingmu's hardships and sacrifices.
Jingting felt deeply indebted for the love Qingmu had shown him. For the first time, they genuinely conveyed mutual respect and anticipation for their future relationship. Qingmu then reverently presented Jingting with the key symbolizing the Chief Priest's supreme authority. Jingting knelt, humbly accepting the gift and the position he had never sought.
Qingmu emphasized that the Fox Clan was weakening, particularly the conservative Northern branch, and believed Jingting was the ideal leader to introduce new ideas and bridge the divide for the clan's future. Later, Pipi visited Xiaoju, presenting her with a new outfit and necklace, which fit perfectly. Pipi explained she wouldn't wear such dark clothes anymore because Jingting preferred lighter colors. Xiaoju then inquired about Pipi's feelings for Xiu Xian and Kuanyong, noting their "unclear" relationship.
Pipi admitted her confusion but reassured Xiaoju, encouraging her to always remain true to herself and be happy. Pipi's words and actions, including giving Xiaoju all her clothes, took on an ominous tone, making Xiaoju wonder if Pipi was "making arrangements" or saying goodbye. Pipi dismissed her concerns as random thoughts, reiterating her gratitude for Xiaoju's meticulous wedding preparations.
Zhao Song brought Wang Xuan directly to Jingting's residence, entering without permission, an act Wang Xuan found concerning but Zhao Song shrugged off as routine. As Wang Xuan, now a celebrated journalist thanks to Zhao Song, conversed with him, she expressed doubts about the authenticity of the information he'd provided her regarding Qianhua's company, fearing it could lead to slander.
Zhao Song dismissed her concerns, focusing on the pursuit of "hot news" and "attention," comparing it to her past celebrity gossip work and implying that Qianhua's company's problems were just the tip of the iceberg. He then showed her numerous paintings of Huiyan's likeness throughout the house, encouraging Wang Xuan to photograph them for sensational headlines.
Wang Xuan observed that Pipi appeared in some of the paintings, dressed in clothing from various dynasties, and noted the ancient style of the artwork, realizing Pipi's unusual connection to Jingting. Consumed by admiration, Wang Xuan confessed her feelings for Zhao Song, stating they were alike in their "coldness and cruelty," believing they could forge a legendary bond. However, Zhao Song, with chilling indifference, plunged a sharp dagger into her chest. Wang Xuan died with a smile on her face.
Sometime later, while Pipi was tidying her belongings, she came across a peculiar set of photos. These were the very images Wang Xuan had diligently captured, documenting evidence of the Fox Clan's existence. Pipi realized these had inadvertently fallen into her pocket during a previous collision with Wang Xuan at the newspaper office. The chilling implications of the photos caused Pipi to break out in a cold sweat, afraid to delve deeper into their meaning.
Episode 23 Recap
Kuanyong and Xiu Xian arrived downstairs at Xiaoju's apartment building, each holding information regarding her fate: Xiu Xian with her natal chart, and Kuanyong with her birth date. Xiaoju, awakened by their late-night visit, listened as Xiu Xian reminded her of her mother's seven-year struggle to make a decision, implying Xiaoju now faced a similar choice.
Xiu Xian asked Xiaoju to choose between them to be the groomsman for Jingting's wedding the next day, with Kuanyong even presenting natal chart compatibility readings for her with each of them. However, Xiaoju challenged them to make the same choice, revealing that they, too, couldn't pick. She explained that choosing one would be to deny the other, and her true dilemma was whether to make a decision that would inevitably damage their unique three-person relationship.
With no easy answer, they wished each other goodnight. Meanwhile, Qian Hua bought a wedding gift for Helan Jingting and prepared to leave for a place where nobody knew her, seeking a fresh start. Jingting expressed his apologies for the difficulties she had faced over the years. Qian Hua responded that one cannot control whom they like or dislike, and they must accept it.
She asked Jingting to thank Guan Pipi for not forcing him to sacrifice for her, acknowledging its importance. Before departing, Qian Hua warned Jingting to be extremely careful, noting that many unusual things had been happening in the north and expressing her fear that Zhao Song might be plotting something. At the same time, Qingmu summoned Zhao Song, urging him not to do anything to disrupt Jingting's upcoming wedding. Zhao Song felt that Qingmu’s distrust of him was blatant.
Qingmu apologized for being reckless at Zhao Song’s own wedding in the past, clarifying his desire for Zhao Song and Jingting to get along for the greater good of the Fox Clan. Zhao Song, kneeling, pleaded with Qingmu to pass the Fox Clan key to him, arguing that Jingting had no real interest in clan matters and promising to lead the clan to prosperity. Qingmu, however, revealed that he had already given the key to Jingting.
Zhao Song, believing himself to be an an adopted son constantly compared to a "blood son," expressed his long-held misconception. Qingmu then disclosed that both Jingting and Zhao Song were adopted children. He explained that he gave the key to Jingting not due to Zhao Song's capabilities, but because Zhao Song was too similar to himself—too extreme to lead the Fox Clan effectively.
Zhao Song chillingly responded that he understood and knew what to do, then declared Qingmu was no longer the Chief Priest before fatally striking him, showing no hesitation. The following day, Jingting and Pipi's wedding was set to take place. They discussed the Fox Clan tradition of requiring a "Monkey's wedding" (sun shower) for their ceremony. Jingting reassured Pipi that if their love was true, it would rain.
Jingting also mentioned that Qingmu had recently visited him in the new town, personally apologizing for the past issues concerning Huiyan and offering him the Fox Clan key, which Jingting had temporarily accepted. As their vows began, Helan Jingting pledged to forever guard Pipi, to be her candle in darkness and her sun in winter. Guan Pipi, in turn, vowed to always be by his side, her bay in the storm, and her refuge when he was exhausted.
However, their joyous moment was abruptly interrupted by police officers who entered and announced that both Helan Jingting and Guan Pipi were involved in a criminal case, proceeding to arrest them for murder. Jingting urged Pipi not to be afraid as they were led away. In the ensuing panic, Kuanyong immediately called Qian Hua (who was at the airport). He informed her that Pipi had been arrested as a murder suspect. Shocked, Qian Hua promised to gather information.
As the group tried to comprehend the situation, Su Mei rushed in, out of breath, to report that Qingmu and Fang Jinxue were dead. Rumors were swirling that Helan Jingting had killed them, desiring to usurp power, and had taken a "treasure" from Fang Jinxue—the Gold Flower Mirror—to cure a human, presumably Pipi. Qian Hua clarified that the Gold Flower Mirror was not a treasure but a keepsake from Jingting's mother, which had saved him once.
She deduced that Zhao Song was behind everything, manipulating these rumors to frame Jingting. They realized that Jingting, having lost his powers saving Tao Jialin, was currently powerless and no match for Zhao Song. Qian Hua then revealed a legend about the Fox King's tomb, which was guarded by an "Eternal Spring Wood" pillar.
This wood, said to be thousands of years old, would burn upon ignition, revealing the true forms of foxes and destroying any fox attempting to rob the tomb. This sacred wood was the only way to kill Zhao Song, but if ignited, it would also mean the demise of all Fox Clan members present. Despite the grim consequence, Kuanyong, Xiu Xian, and Xiaoju volunteered to find the tomb.
Xiaoju, as a human, insisted on joining them, believing she wouldn't be affected and wanting to protect her friends. They set off to locate the mysterious Fox King tomb, while Qian Hua and Su Mei went to the police station to arrange for Pipi and Jingting's release. At the police station, Qian Hua, acting as their attorney, pressed the officers for details about the murder charges.
The police stated that the victim was Wang Xuan and suspected Pipi and Jingting were involved. They hinted at a possible motive of jealousy or financial gain on Pipi's part, given Wang Xuan's failed attempts to interview Jingting and Pipi's impending marriage to him, and presented evidence like photos from Wang Xuan's camera taken at Jingting's home and Jingting's fingerprints on the murder weapon.
Qian Hua vehemently denied the accusations, pointing out the inconsistencies in their theories and threatening legal action for slander. The autopsy report confirmed Wang Xuan's death occurred at night while she was on vacation. Meanwhile, Kuanyong, Xiu Xian, and Xiaoju realized they didn't know the exact location of the Fox King's tomb. Kuanyong explained they could calculate its approximate location by analyzing ancient construction material transportation records from the Shang Dynasty.
Unexpectedly, Xiaoju's father, Professor Zhao, arrived and, recognizing Kuanyong, offered his expertise to help them with the calculations. Their efforts led them to a cave with ancient markings, confirming they were near the tomb. Xiaoju identified the main tomb path and its structure. Professor Zhao suggested they split up to search more efficiently, with him taking the middle path.
Around this time, Zhao Song confronted Jingting, within the police station, mocking him for his weakness caused by his closeness to humans. Zhao Song demanded the key that Qingmu had given Jingting. Jingting refused, and then confronted Zhao Song, who chillingly admitted to killing their adoptive father, claiming he did it for Jingting. Jingting condemned Zhao Song's inhumanity.
Zhao Song, stating he had no desire to be the Chief Priest but would never hand the key to Jingting, threatened to kill everyone close to Jingting if he did not comply, clearly intending to secure the succession by any means necessary. Eventually, Jingting and Pipi were successfully bailed out. However, Jingting was in critical condition due to the severe injuries inflicted by Zhao Song, and it became clear he was beyond recovery.
Qian Hua tearfully informed Pipi that Jingting would soon transform back into his fox form, signifying his death. Pipi, in disbelief, desperately suggested giving him her liver, anything to save him. As Jingting's life ebbed, Pipi held him, thanking him for entering her life and bringing her so much joy. She recalled their first meeting, lamenting that they hadn't met earlier – a year, a month, even just a day earlier – so she could have loved him longer.
She poured out her heart, telling him "I love you," repeating that Guan Pipi loved him deeply. She implored him to remember her, and remember her love, the next time they met. With her final words, Jingting transformed into his white fox form, taking his last breath in Pipi's arms as she helplessly cried his name.
Episode 24 Recap
In the 1980s, a profound destiny began to unfold in the small and ordinary New City. Jingting arrived, a polymath with vast knowledge, taking up the unique position of a museum professor. He quietly awaited a significant moment, intending to be present for every step of Huiyan's life from her birth. Simultaneously, Xiuxian and Zhao Kuanyong started their new roles as teachers at a local middle school; Zhao Kuanyong taught physics, and Xiuxian taught physical education.
As they observed the cheerful children on the spacious playground, memories of their own challenging past in the orphanage surfaced. Jingting, upon starting his new job as a special authenticator at the museum, politely declined the curator's offer of a dedicated vehicle for his commute. He explained that a friend could drive him during the day and he could drive himself home at night.
He shared that he had relocated to New City because a friend, with whom he had grown up, had recently moved there. Meanwhile, at school, Zhao Kuanyong introduced himself as the new substitute physics teacher, informing the students that their usual physics and PE teachers had married and taken a month's leave. Li Yinghua volunteered to be the physics representative. Guan Guodong, one of the students, appeared distracted in Zhao Kuanyong's class, prompting the teacher to offer him notes.
Li Yinghua later invited Guan Guodong to her birthday party, an invitation he seemed hesitant to accept. Outside of class, Li Yinghua, a bright student, was observed by Zhao Kuanyong studying physics outdoors, explaining that it helped her think clearly. She even engaged him in a complex discussion about the Aharonov-Bohm effect in quantum mechanics. In PE class, Xiuxian announced that the 50-meter dash would be tested that day.
During the test, Guan Guodong struggled, running slower than the girls and failing to pass, necessitating a make-up exam. He later confided in Li Yinghua that he was particularly anxious about passing PE this time, hoping to earn a "merit student" award as a keepsake before he had to leave school to work in a factory and contribute to his family. Concerned for Huiyan's impending birth, Jingting enlisted the museum's driver, Mr. Zhao, to take him to Huada Hospital.
He inquired about which hospital residents typically frequented, expressing his desire to visit multiple facilities to ensure the best possible care for his pregnant friend. He located Chief Liu Minghui's office at Huada Hospital and urgently requested that the most experienced doctor be assigned to the night shift between 9 PM and midnight two days later, anticipating his friend's delivery. Chief Liu expressed that the hospital's shifts were typically fixed and questioned if there were any complications with the pregnancy.
Jingting assured him there were none but emphasized his desire for an absolutely flawless delivery. To secure this, Jingting presented a donation agreement, offering one million yuan to the hospital for equipment procurement, explaining that this matter was of immense personal importance to him. Chief Liu, acknowledging the hospital's need for new imported equipment, agreed to arrange for an experienced doctor.
Jingting further clarified that the donation would stand even if his friend did not end up delivering at Huada Hospital, before leaving to visit other hospitals. As Li Yinghua stepped in for the PE representative, Zhang Liang, to record scores for the 50-meter make-up test, Xiuxian discovered that Guan Guodong's failing score had been changed to a passing one. He called both Li Yinghua and Guan Guodong to his office.
Li Yinghua immediately took sole responsibility for altering the grade, explaining that she acted out of her own initiative and that Guan Guodong had no involvement. Under pressure, Li Yinghua blurted out that she had changed the grade because she liked Guan Guodong. Guan Guodong, surprised, admitted he had been aware of her feelings. Xiuxian, witnessing this emotional confession, chose not to pursue the matter further, though he stated that Guan Guodong's grade would still be recorded as a fail.
Shortly after, Li Yinghua went into labor. Guan Guodong was notified via his pager and quickly made his way to Huada Hospital, where he was informed that his wife's condition was critical, requiring an immediate C-section. As he frantically insisted on seeing her, Jingting appeared, reassuring him that the doctor on duty, Vice Chief Zhang (a last-minute replacement for Chief Liu), was exceptionally experienced. A precious baby girl was born, whom her overjoyed father named Guan Pipi.
Jingting, observing the safe delivery of the mother and child, smiled contentedly. He then spoke to his companions, confirming that their mission regarding Huiyan's birth was complete and requested that Xiuxian not be informed of his true identity. Five years passed. Guan Pipi, a joyful and innocent child, was growing up. Jingting remained her silent guardian, always nearby, even when Pipi was almost abducted by human traffickers.
Jingting intervened, saving the child and reassuring her, promising to find her again in twenty years. One day, Xiuxian and Zhao Kuanyong noticed a charming little girl playing delightedly with small animals by the roadside. Her radiant smile captivated them, leaving a lasting impression that would resonate for two decades. Meanwhile, Guan Guodong and Li Yinghua faced financial strain.
Li Yinghua grew increasingly frustrated with Guan Guodong's continued employment at the factory, comparing him unfavorably to other fathers, especially as Pipi was nearing elementary school age. Guan Guodong felt cornered and embarrassed, asserting that he wouldn't know how to do anything else. Despite their arguments, they promised to find a way forward for Pipi's future. The young Pipi was eventually reunited with her parents, while Jingting quietly departed, ready to wait for her to grow up once more.
Episode 25 (Ending) Recap
A flashback revealed Huiyan's deep love for Helan, also known as Xi. Speaking with a mysterious figure she addressed as "my lord," Huiyan expressed her willingness to make a sacrifice, but only if it meant Helan would not be sad and would never try to find her. The "lord" assured her they understood.
In a tender moment, Huiyan reminisced about Helan's past words that staring at the moon long enough would reveal one's inner self, confirming she had indeed seen hers. She then recounted their impending marriage, a union her father had scheduled for that very month. Despite Helan's previous aversion to weddings and his humorous claim of being "extremely ugly," Huiyan eagerly anticipated their special day.
She described their people's tradition of marrying on a sunny rain day, hoping for a rainbow, and her wish to finally see his appearance. Huiyan imagined their wedding with vibrant colorful boats and all their loved ones blessing them. She believed that to Helan, she would be the most beautiful girl in the world, wearing a colorful wedding dress he promised would be more radiant than any rainbow.
They promised each other to journey through the world and spend their lives together, never parting. In the present, Helan was in grave danger, prompting a discussion among his loyal companions about his fate and the location of a crucial key. Zhao Song's ambition to become the next Chief Priest of the Fox Clan hinged on obtaining this key, which would seal Helan's conviction for patricide.
The group realized that finding the key and securing it was a high-stakes gamble against Zhao Song. Amidst their concern, Xiu Xian proposed a daring plan: he and Kuanyong would transfer all their power to Helan. They knew this act would restore Helan's life, though he would lose all his memories and powers, becoming a mortal. They, in turn, would revert to their fox forms for potentially centuries. Guan Pipi overheard their conversation and was deeply moved.
As Helan had lost his powers, the mystical Flower of the Fox on Pipi's body faded, signifying that the energy originally belonging to her had been returned. She finally had the chance for a complete human life, but it meant potentially losing Helan. Pipi thought of Helan in his adorable fox form, longing to hold him. She resolved to act, announcing that she had a plan.
Her immediate concern was for Helan, who had been turned into a fox by Zhao Song. She pressed Xiu Xian and Kuanyong for details about his condition and their plan to save him, offering her help. When they suggested she stay out of it for her safety, Pipi firmly stated that as Helan's wife, it was her business. Zhao Song and Bozhong, meanwhile, were obsessed with finding the key.
Zhao Song expressed frustration that Helan had refused to accept the key for centuries, only to become the heir at this critical moment. Bozhong explained that while many elders might support Zhao Song's claim, the key was essential to command full respect and prevent potential impeachment. Based on his analysis, Bozhong believed the key was still hidden within Helan's home, as it wasn't found when Helan was previously detained.
Pipi then directly contacted Zhao Song by phone, introducing herself as Helan's wife. Zhao Song, having heard of her, used Helan's dire state to his advantage, informing Pipi that Helan had indeed turned into a fox and had little time left. Pipi, pretending to cooperate, offered to give him the key on two conditions: the safety of her family and friends, and that the Fox Clan would never disturb her again.
Zhao Song found this a simple transaction and readily agreed, even promising to grant her an additional request: a memento left by Helan's mother. They arranged to meet at No. 56, Xianting Street, that night. Zhao Song, confident, told Bozhong it was convenient to have Pipi as a "guide." Meanwhile, Xiu Xian, Kuanyong, and Xiaoju were on their way to help Helan.
Xiaoju asked if saving Helan would cost them their lives, and Xiu Xian and Kuanyong reaffirmed their unwavering oath to Helan, stating that they owed him their lives. They explained that using their combined power to heal Helan would exhaust their own, turning them back into foxes for possibly hundreds of years before they could regain human form.
As they journeyed to a river to perform the ritual, Xiu Xian affectionately spoke to the fox-transformed Helan, promising he would soon be human again, while lamenting that he and Kuanyong would not be able to accompany him during their long transformation. They playfully wondered if Helan would recognize them in his new human life and if his eyesight would be restored, expressing their relief at his potential for a normal life.
They teased each other and Helan as they shared food, reflecting on how Helan had saved their lives. Xiaoju, clearly saddened, was comforted by Xiu Xian, who playfully explained that foxes don't die but merely revert to their original form, reassuring her they would return for her, though it might take 800 or 900 years. As a heartfelt goodbye, Xiaoju gave them small stones she had collected, considering them a blessing.
They expressed their gratitude, telling her that meeting her had been the luckiest and happiest event of their past few hundred years. That night, Pipi arrived at Helan's house, where Zhao Song and Bozhong were waiting. Zhao Song immediately snatched Pipi's bag, revealing he knew she carried the Sacred Wood. He chided her for complicating their "deal" but reiterated his promise to uphold his end of the bargain by offering her the Gold Flower Mirror if she provided the key.
Pipi, however, admitted she didn't know the key's location and wouldn't give it to him even if she did, asserting it belonged to Helan. Zhao Song, unfazed, declared the key was in the house and demanded she find it. He physically forced her, threatening her family's safety if she didn't cooperate. When Pipi frantically searched and found nothing, Zhao Song mocked her for her gullibility. Just then, Qianhua appeared, confronting Zhao Song.
Zhao Song angrily told her to step aside, reminding her that Pipi was Helan's true love, not her. He warned Qianhua that it wasn't too late to stop. Qianhua, however, fiercely countered, reminding him of her threat to ruin Helan if he left her, and accused him of pushing her too far. Zhao Song, misunderstanding her motives, questioned if she was doing this for Helan.
Qianhua, with tears in her eyes, finally confessed that her actions were not for Helan but for Zhao Song himself, because she had fallen in love with him and did not want to love a "jerk." Zhao Song struggled to believe her, but Qianhua affirmed that everything she had done was for him. Acknowledging her past mistakes, she chose to end everything.
She then raised the Gold Flower Mirror, igniting the Sacred Wood, and in a flash, she, Zhao Song, and Bozhong were incinerated, their souls and bodies turning to ash. Six months later, Tao Jialin was discharged from the hospital, intending to move to America. Only Tian Xin was there to see him off, as he had not informed his parents.
Jialin expressed his newfound desire for independence, wanting to learn to care for himself after years of relying on his parents, Pipi, and Tian Xin. He inquired about Tian Xin's stable job, and she gave him homemade bean paste. The future of their relationship remained open, dependent on Jialin's choices and efforts. Xiaoju continued her life and work, now accompanied by two adorable foxes named Xiuxiu and Kuankuan, embodying the transformed Xiu Xian and Kuanyong.
Xiaoju lovingly cared for them, content in their presence. Guan Pipi successfully enrolled as a graduate student in journalism at Jialin and Tian Xin's alma mater, pursuing her dream of becoming an exceptional journalist. In an interview, she used an analogy of a disliked apple, which she was forced to eat by a "man" (Helan), who told her it would cure her illness.
She realized this apple, and the man, opened her eyes to an "unknown world" where she saw herself differently. Pipi declared that news was like that apple, and journalists were those who fed it to people, needing to be brave enough to accept the unfamiliar and confront the unknown to guide readers to new understandings. Despite these new beginnings, Helan remained missing.
After six months, a lawyer named Chen attempted to have Pipi sign an inheritance agreement for Helan, stating that by contract, after six months of absence, Helan would be considered deceased. Pipi vehemently refused, insisting that Helan was merely missing and would return. She firmly told the lawyer that the decision to sign was hers, and she would not do so.
Later, Pipi spoke with Su Mei on the phone, who confirmed there was no news of Helan but reassured Pipi that Helan had been cleared of all charges, thanks to Pipi having protected the key, and remained the rightful heir of the Fox Clan. Su Mei encouraged Pipi to stay strong, as they all awaited Helan's return. Pipi later embarked on a train journey northward to participate in a fox release event.
On the train, at Shuhai Station, Pipi encountered a man who strikingly resembled Helan. After a brief interaction, they introduced themselves. She was Guan Pipi, and he was Helan Xi. Pipi, taken by his name, shared a detail a friend once told her: that "Xi" was an ancient tool for untying ropes, a fact she would never forget. She confessed that this friend, who meant a great deal to her, had since left. When Helan Xi asked if he would return, Pipi replied, "He will. I'll wait for him to come back." Helan Xi responded, "Then I'll wait with you."
