Out Of The Dream Recap, Plot, Synopsis

> Out Of The Dream

Out Of The Dream Synopsis

Yu Fei, a female student who took the male role in Peking Opera, studied under the master of the “Shan Deng Ting” and was expelled from the oprea due to a mistake.

Bai Fili, the producer of the old-fashioned stage play, was looking for an actress with Peking Opera skills for a new play. So they met.

Yu Fei’s Peking Opera voice made Bai Feili’s play famous inside and outside the circle, but because of the death of his mother, they broke off contact.

When they met again, Yu Fei was already preparing for the professional opera school, and Bai Fili’s company was facing a new project crisis.

When Yu Fei moved into Bai Fili’s home for a part-time job, Bai Fili focused on helping Yu Fei prepare for her exams; she got to know his family better. With the help of her grandparents, they finally fell in love.

In order to let Yu Fei focus on her career in Peking Opera, Bai Feili broke up with her at the most desperate moment.

But after knowing the truth, Yu Fei chose to help Bai Feili’s company to finish the performance.

In the end, Yu Fei sang a different version of “Wu Zi Xu” on the stage of “Ding Sheng Chun Qiu”, and Bai Fei Li made the premiere of her new play “Nan Ge Ru Meng 2” a full house, and they got married.

Out Of The Dream Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

The Shandengting troupe's yard is meticulously cleaned, as Master emphasizes strict discipline in practice, stating that slackers will never become renowned performers. Huizi, an apprentice, clumsily brings in fruit for Master, who reminds everyone to be careful. Meanwhile, a junior apprentice is engrossed in a mobile game, only to be caught by his senior sister, Yu Fei, a female laosheng (senior male actor). He playfully argues, citing Master's teaching on perseverance.

Yu Fei takes his phone, explaining that she will return it only after he completes his Iron Bar skill practice and a performance drill. She reveals that she had previously confiscated his phone and studied the game, even incorporating its movements and blockings into her rehearsals, which Uncle approved. Another senior apprentice suggests that only Uncle can keep Yu Fei in check. The junior apprentice then manages to snatch his phone back from Yu Fei.

Master summons Yu Fei, reminding her that tonight's performance is crucial, with provincial leaders in attendance. He warns her not to "screw it up" and promises her a recommendation for the National Competition for Young Peking Opera Actors if she performs well. He also gifts her a new whisker, urging her not to bring shame to the Shandengting troupe. Yu Fei, excited, immediately seeks out Uncle to show him the new whisker.

She reminisces about her early days, disliking the "stinky" whisker, and Uncle's past encouragement that she would have her own when she became a renowned performer. Uncle, however, dismisses her enthusiasm, stating that the value of whiskers has simply declined, not that she has become famous. Yu Fei expresses her ambition to win the National Competition, to which Uncle coldly replies by asking if she is a "fame and gain seeker."

Before Yu Fei can fully articulate her true feelings, two junior apprentices interrupt, congratulating Uncle and teasingly announcing his upcoming marriage to Shi Meiqing, a Qing Yi actress from a prestigious Peking Opera family, with the marriage certificate planned for tomorrow. The news deeply shocks Yu Fei. Uncle confirms the marriage, informing her that he will no longer be her stage partner, as he will be mentoring a new Senior Male.

Despite learning that Master is preparing a new play for her, ensuring her status as a "Protagonist," Yu Fei expresses her profound unhappiness, declaring that her sole desire is to perform alongside Uncle. The apprentices mockingly suggest she be Uncle's "best man."

During the evening performance of "The Dragon Meets the Phoenix," Yu Fei, who started her training as a female Senior Male at the age of twelve and was once praised as a "good seedling," becomes visibly distracted during her duet with Uncle. In the audience, a mysterious man observes the performance, stating confidently that he will find a new "Liu Xichan" in less than ten days.

Yu Fei's distracted state causes her to forget lines, leading to visible disappointment and demands for refunds from the audience. Sensing the dire situation, the mysterious man pulls the main power switch, plunging the stage into darkness. He then approaches Yu Fei backstage, claiming he saved her from further embarrassment and suggesting she explore "bigger stages" as he needs an actor. Yu Fei vehemently refuses his offer and attempts to prevent him from leaving, calling for Master.

Master, enraged by the disruption and Yu Fei's poor performance, confronts her, wielding a stick and accusing her of humiliating the Shandengting troupe and jeopardizing both her own future and that of the troupe. Despite pleas from other apprentices, Master knows Yu Fei's deep skill level, asserting she could not have genuinely forgotten lines in a play performed thousands of times. He suspects her actions were deliberate and a defiant attempt to alter the performance.

Yu Fei accepts the punishment, conceding that her mistakes warrant it. However, she defiantly asks Uncle, who stands by, "Did I sing well?" When Master continues his tirade, and other apprentices urge Uncle to intervene, Uncle stoically declares his non-involvement, stating, "It's none of my business. I only care about opera." Overwhelmed, Yu Fei then confesses to committing a "crime of disobedience," admitting her forbidden love for Uncle.

Master is shocked, reminding her that the hierarchy and rules of the Liyuan Opera troupe are sacrosanct. Yu Fei passionately explains that her entire journey in opera began because of Uncle, and her dream was to perform "The Dragon Meets the Phoenix" with him forever. She acknowledges her words are scandalous but insists she had to speak her truth.

Unmoved and cold, Uncle swiftly declares that anyone committing a "crime of disobedience" will be expelled from the Shandengting troupe and barred from performing for three years, shattering Yu Fei's heart. Under a sky mirroring her broken spirit with heavy rain and thunder, Yu Fei makes her way to her friend Shuji's home. Shuji, after applying her special herbal medicine to Yu Fei's wounds, listens as Yu Fei tearfully reveals her expulsion from the Shandengting troupe.

Shuji admits she had anticipated this, given how Master had whipped her with an antique, implying the gravity of her offense. Yu Fei expresses her desperation for closure, especially with Uncle's wedding set for the next day. Shuji reminds Yu Fei of a past fortune-telling, mentioning a "fork in the road" in her life, implying this might be it.

Shuji reminisces about Yu Fei's fierce dedication as a twelve-year-old, sleeping on the floor for a year to perfect her posture for opera, and urges her not to regret the path she has chosen. Shuji gives Yu Fei painkillers to help her sleep, then gathers Yu Fei's dirty and wet clothes. Later, Yu Fei wakes from a nightmare and immediately asks Shuji for its interpretation.

At an advanced event for the Suzhou Animation Carnival, a stunning stage play featuring a woman in red captivates the audience. This is where Bai Feili, a brilliant stage play planner and co-founder of Jiubai Studio, is fully introduced. Known by his cosplay name Guanshan Qianzhong, Bai Feili is among the spectators and is meticulous, even directing his team to adjust stage lighting for Guanjiu by mere centimeters to ensure perfection. During Guanjiu's performance, her microphone unexpectedly dies.

Bai Feili quickly takes control, instructing his team to activate moving lights, switch to an "assassin dance music mode" with added rhythms and drumbeats, and deploy holographic projections. This swift action successfully distracts the audience with captivating visual effects like floating drums and fireworks, expertly averting a crisis. A team member then hands Guanjiu a new microphone, and she resumes her performance seamlessly.

Later, while driving, Guanjiu (the other co-founder of Jiubai Studio, whose focus is promotion) confronts Bai Feili about his lax approach to publicity, specifically his failure to attend a crucial live streaming event for the upcoming Suzhou Animation Carnival. She also presses him about finding a "Liu Xichan" for their major production, "South Song," with only ten days until its debut.

Guanjiu reveals that Lingjiu, who they previously considered for the role, had gotten drunk and destroyed half their props after Bai Feili ignored her calls. Guanjiu argues that Lingjiu "is" their Liu Xichan and that a simple apology would ensure a 99% success rate of bringing her back, especially since their rival, Li Hentian's Feiwo Studio, is attempting to sign Lingjiu.

However, Bai Feili, firm in his vision, insists on taking the "one percent" chance to find a completely new talent, confident that he will succeed. Yu Fei is dropped off at her home after Brother Dao delivers "fine white cubilose" for her mother, Yan Peishan. Brother Dao, who frequently helps Yu Fei, refuses payment for the cubilose, making Yu Fei consider it a loan.

She arrives home to a critical mother, Yan Peishan, who scolds her for not removing her shoes and for her continued lack of success in opera, despite years of training since age twelve. Yu Fei fabricates a story about taking a leave from the troupe to care for her mother, but Yan Peishan dismisses it, criticizing Yu Fei for not becoming the "main pillar" as intended. In a fit of temper, Yan Peishan knocks over the cubilose.

Yu Fei, exasperated, challenges her mother's materialistic demands, such as preferring "Red cubilose" and specific Taoruixiang cheongsams, and suggests she seek help for her "illness of affluence." Yan Peishan further demeans Yu Fei's accomplishments, declaring she has given up on Yu Fei providing her with a comfortable life. Angrily, Yu Fei throws the cubilose. Later, dejected and in need of work after her expulsion, Yu Fei starts a daily-wage job at a bar, arranged by Brother Dao.

After her shift, she orders a beer and drinks continuously, eventually breaking into an impromptu Peking Opera performance. Guanjiu, also present at the bar, is struck by Yu Fei's singing. She immediately records a video of Yu Fei and sends it to Bai Feili, urging him not to "mess it up this time" and to charge the bar tab to the company account. Bai Feili, recognizing the voice from the Shandengting troupe incident, instantly drives to the bar.

As a heavily intoxicated Yu Fei stumbles out, she initially mistakes Bai Feili for her Uncle, asking if he has come to take her home and if her singing was poor. Upon realizing her mistake, she drunkenly refers to him as a "trash can" because of his height and asks him to take her home.

Episode 2 Recap

Yu Fei dreamt of a lion that lifted her with one hand, a dream that foretold she would meet a strong, charming man who would become her lover. She woke abruptly to the sound of a dropped glass, realizing she was in an unfamiliar bed, and her memory returned: she had been carried here last night and had thrown up on someone.

Feeling embarrassed, Yu Fei quickly dressed in a borrowed shirt and left all the money she had on the bedside table as a gesture of responsibility. As she exited the room, she passed a woman, Lingjiu, in the hallway. Soon after, Bai Feili emerged from the bathroom, noticing the money and a bracelet Yu Fei had accidentally dropped.

Lingjiu, who had just encountered Yu Fei, then entered Bai Feili’s room using an access card and confronted him, accusing him of finding the "Liu Xichan" he wanted last night and bringing her back to the hotel. Lingjiu, claiming to be his girlfriend, argued that she had practiced Peking Opera for three months for a small role on his stage and had even turned down film offers.

Bai Feili, however, firmly stated that regardless of whether Yu Fei played the role, Liu Xichan would certainly not be Lingjiu. Lingjiu threatened to join Li Hentian, who was actively seeking a female lead, but Bai Feili remained unmoved. He instructed her to leave the room card and warned her that any future unauthorized entry would result in him calling security. Later, Yu Fei encountered her aunt on the street, who questioned her whereabouts the previous night.

Yu Fei vaguely explained she had stayed out after work. Her aunt then asked her to deliver food to Hao Shi, claiming it would help Yu Fei avoid her mother's current anger. Her aunt also noticed Yu Fei was wearing a man's shirt that clearly wasn't hers, a question Yu Fei quickly deflected by mentioning the food might get cold.

Meanwhile, Hao Shi attended an interview at Jiubai Studio at the Comic-Con, excited to meet famous cosplayers like Sir Wuchang and Mafang Nanshan. He was particularly nervous when he learned his idol, Guan Jiu, would be interviewing him. During the interview, Guan Jiu noticed Hao Shi discreetly trying to observe her and playfully urged him to look openly, teasing him about being a "doglike fanboy" to her "catlike domineering lady."

She evaluated his intricate design for a skirt featuring a "firefly effect" using LED lights but pointed out a design flaw regarding emergency handling during live performances. Guan Jiu then confronted Hao Shi about misrepresenting himself on his resume as a college student. Hao Shi confessed he was still a high school senior and would only become a college student in a few months, explaining he lied because the studio typically didn’t hire high school students.

Despite this, Guan Jiu was impressed by his creativity and decided to reserve a spot for him at the Fashion Institute, also playfully offering him the nickname 'Chocolate' (or 'Hershey,' as his name Hao Shi sounds like). She then excused herself to attend to a prop issue backstage. Yu Fei, searching for Hao Shi at the Comic-Con after learning he had skipped class, got disoriented by confusing restroom signs before finally spotting and chasing him into a rehearsal area.

There, she stumbled upon an argument between Li Hentian and members of Jiubai Studio over damaged props. Bai Feili arrived, asserting that surveillance footage would reveal the truth. Lingjiu also appeared, attempting to defend Li Hentian while subtly referencing her past rejection of Bai Feili's offer to play Liu Xichan. In the midst of the chaos, Yu Fei's hair accidentally snagged on a large prop sword, causing it to fall and drawing everyone's attention.

Lingjiu recognized Yu Fei from the hotel earlier and made suggestive remarks about her wearing Bai Feili's shirt. Bai Feili stepped in, defending Yu Fei and accusing Lingjiu’s group of exploiting young women. He then publicly invited Yu Fei to play Liu Xichan in his "South Song" stage play. Yu Fei immediately refused, dramatically removed Bai Feili's shirt, and pulled Hao Shi away.

Bai Feili pursued them, covered Yu Fei's back with his shirt to hide a wound, and returned her lost bracelet, reiterating his sincere invitation. Yu Fei, however, again sincerely rejected him, asserting she was "not that cheap." Hao Shi, confused, questioned Yu Fei about her connection to Bai Feili, to which she lied, claiming he had simply found her lost money.

As they left, Yu Fei chastised Hao Shi for frequenting "weird places" and associating with "impolite" people, arguing that Peking Opera was a national treasure far superior to anime. Hao Shi fiercely countered, stating that unlike her, he and his friends pursued their passions by choice, and accused her of disliking Peking Opera despite being forced into it by her mother. He then revealed that Yu Fei had been expelled from her troupe, a fact she hadn't shared.

When Yu Fei demanded to know how he knew, Hao Shi admitted he had overheard her mother talking to her master on the phone, before quickly departing. Yu Fei returned home, bringing her mother Yan Peishan her favorite dishes from Songhe Restaurant and instant bird's nest. However, her mother was still furious about Yu Fei being expelled from the troupe.

Yan Peishan slapped her daughter and berated her, claiming Yu Fei's "bad character" meant she deserved a beating from her master and that no troupe would hire her if she couldn't perform for three years. She threw a suitcase at Yu Fei, demanding she return to the Shandengting troupe and beg for forgiveness, revealing she had spent an hour pleading with them on Yu Fei's behalf. Yu Fei finally unleashed years of suppressed resentment, declaring she would not return.

She accused her mother of never caring about her physical pain and injuries during training, only about her becoming famous and buying expensive items like bird’s nest and cheongsams. In response, Yan Peishan pulled out a cervical cancer diagnosis report, stating she had little time left. She confessed that her only wish, her "filial piety," was for Yu Fei to return to performing opera.

Shocked and heartbroken, Yu Fei immediately urged her mother to go to Shanghai for treatment, but Yan Peishan refused, accepting her destiny. Later, Yu Fei was seen standing outside a traditional theater, listening to the performance, much like she had as a child, until a staff member asked her to either enter or leave.

Meanwhile, Bai Feili and Guan Jiu discussed his failed attempt to recruit Yu Fei, with Guan Jiu scolding him for letting her slip away after all his efforts. Bai Feili admitted he needed Guan Jiu's help to arrange another meeting with Yu Fei, instructing Guan Jiu to drive his car back while he went to find Yu Fei himself. At an internet cafe, Hao Shi, disguised as a programmer, attempted to download an application form for a fashion design college.

The staff, however, saw through his disguise and age, refusing him entry. Guan Jiu appeared, humorously exposing Hao Shi's failed attempt at role-playing and questioning why his parents opposed him studying fashion for stage plays. Hao Shi explained his parents were generally supportive of anime and fashion but drew the line at stage play design. He planned to secretly apply and pass the exam to force their acceptance.

Impressed by his determination, Guan Jiu agreed to help him, on the condition that he disclosed all of Yu Fei's whereabouts for that evening. Later, Bai Feili, intent on finding Yu Fei, drove to the Shandengting troupe. He found Yu Fei attempting to sneak into the troupe by climbing over a wall, only to be chased by dogs. Bai Feili intervened, pulling her to safety.

Once they were clear, he formally introduced himself and once again sincerely invited her to star in his stage play. Yu Fei later met her friend Dao Ge at the Ronghua Hotel. She confessed her mother’s illness to him, and he admitted he already knew, implying he had invited her fishing to offer support. He offered his shoulder for her to cry on, jokingly calling himself her "elder brother," which Yu Fei playfully rejected due to his younger age.

He gave her two tickets to a show at the Ronghua Hotel. While fishing, Yu Fei caught a key, which Dao Ge suggested might be a "key to love." Back at home, Yu Fei, wanting to make amends with her mother, helped her style her hair. She also prepared her mother's favorite dishes, instant bird's nest, and two tickets for a Shen Chuanzhi fan meeting, obtained from "Dao Ge."

Yan Peishan asked Yu Fei to iron a peacock blue cheongsam, then wistfully explained that her beloved dark green cheongsam was reserved for the day Yu Fei became a famous opera star, and a rose-red one was for Yu Fei's wedding. She voiced her two deepest wishes: to witness Yu Fei's success and marriage, fearing she wouldn't live long enough to see them. Yu Fei comforted her mother, who then playfully criticized Yu Fei's hairdressing skills and instructed her to iron the dark green cheongsam instead.

Episode 3 Recap

Bai Feili received a voice message from Guan Jiu, informing him that she had reserved a table for him for seven o'clock that night. Guan Jiu warned that if he failed to resolve the matter of finding an actress for the role of Liu Xichan this time, he would have to follow her instructions. Meanwhile, Yu Fei and her mother, Yan Peishan, arrived at an opera house.

They were told there were no additional seats, and Yan Peishan complained about someone named Xiao Dao being unreliable. However, an usher soon directed them to special pool seats, which Yu Fei realized were reserved by Bai Feili. Upon meeting Yan Peishan, Bai Feili introduced himself as Yu Fei's official boyfriend, surprising Yu Fei but delighting her mother.

He explained that since he heard Yan Peishan liked opera, providing them with the best seats was his way of showing respect, as their first meeting was a bit rushed. Yu Fei, still displeased, tried to return the ticket money and reiterated her refusal to perform in his play, but Bai Feili declined the money, reminding her that she owed him a favor, implying she should repay it by taking on the role of Liu Xichan.

During the performance, Yan Peishan enthusiastically volunteered Yu Fei to sing "Dream In Peony Pavilion: An Enchanting Dream" on stage, a request Yu Fei couldn't refuse without disappointing her mother. Separately, at Hao Shi's home, his mother discovered a stash of his comic books. Upon his arrival, she insisted he consume various brain-boosting foods like walnuts, wolfberries, and black sesame paste. Hao Shi, desperate to avoid the lecture, abruptly announced that his teacher was arriving for a home visit.

The "teacher" turned out to be Guan Jiu, disguised as his head teacher, there to discuss college applications. Hao Shi's mother expressed her desire for him to pursue a business major but acknowledged the intense competition. Guan Jiu subtly steered the conversation, suggesting that a business major with aspirations for overseas education might be too financially demanding for a family with only one property.

Instead, she proposed fashion design, particularly costume design for stage plays, as a promising career within the burgeoning cultural creative industry, especially since Hao Shi’s family ran a garment factory. Hao Shi’s father interrupted, asking about the ninth volume of a specific comic book, to which Guan Jiu eagerly provided details about the plot, revealing her shared interest in comics. This exchange, along with their detailed discussion, quickly made Hao Shi's mother realize Guan Jiu's true identity.

Later, after the opera, Hao Shi’s mother scolded him for inviting Guan Jiu and firmly stated that he could forget about pursuing an art education. Back at the opera house, Yu Fei, dressed in costume, was surprised to see Bai Feili also in costume, ready to assist her.

He explained that it was his way of fulfilling her mother's wish and continuing his role as her "boyfriend" for the day, which he claimed was necessary to be able to drive her mother home and learn her address. Yu Fei reaffirmed her refusal to perform in his "South Song" play. Bai Feili, undeterred, simply stated he had already agreed to perform "An Enchanting Dream" with her.

Before they went on stage, Yu Fei mentioned knowing the lyrics and having some opera experience. Bai Feili instructed her to start singing after he gave her three beats. Their performance together impressed the audience, and Yu Fei's mother shed tears of pride and happiness, complimenting their singing. Afterwards, when Yu Fei tried to leave on foot, Bai Feili insisted his driver, Uncle Chen, take her mother home while he walked with Yu Fei.

Yu Fei thanked him for helping with the performance, noting how long it had been since her mother heard her sing, but she again rejected his offer to join "South Song." Bai Feili followed her home, hoping she might reconsider, and gave her his business card, promising a "considerable" salary and that he would wait for her decision until six o'clock the next afternoon. Yu Fei questioned why he, among many talented opera singers, was so persistent about her.

Bai Feili explained that he had searched many opera troupes and theaters but found no one suitable for the role of Liu Xichan until he heard Yu Fei sing "The Dragon Meets the Phoenix" at Shandengting. He believed that, like Liu Xichan, Yu Fei possessed a strong passion and pursuit, and her opera skills were the perfect expression of Liu Xichan's unique character. Yu Fei confessed that she had given up on that passion.

Bai Feili then described "South Song" as partially a love story: a scholar repeatedly dreams of Liu Xichan over three lifetimes, always falling in love with her despite their changing identities and eras. When Yu Fei asked about the ending, Bai Feili said she would discover it when she took the role. As they looked up at the sky, an osmanthus petal fell.

After saying goodbye to Bai Feili, Yu Fei returned home and found her mother collapsed on the floor. She immediately rushed her to the hospital. The next day, Bai Feili and Guan Jiu discussed the "South Song" production. Guan Jiu observed osmanthus petals in Bai Feili's hair, playfully suggesting it symbolized "companionship with your beloved." Later that morning, Guan Jiu, growing impatient, suggested calling another actress, Lingjiu, but Bai Feili insisted on waiting.

At ten o'clock, Bai Feili received a call from Yu Fei. She agreed to take the role, but demanded a payment of fifty thousand, to be settled that very day. Yu Fei was at the hospital, arranging for her aunt to care for her mother, Yan Peishan, who was in stable condition after Yu Fei donated blood for her. Yu Fei had to leave to start rehearsals, explaining she had urgent matters to attend to.

Meanwhile, in the hospital, Hao Shi brought food for his mother. She inquired if his decision to apply to a fashion design college was serious, concerned it was merely a passing fancy. Hao Shi passionately articulated his views, emphasizing that comic art, like traditional narratives, explored themes of good versus evil and upheld justice and dreams, not childishness. Convinced by his earnestness, his mother eventually consented to his choice. Yu Fei arrived at Jiubai studio for rehearsal.

Bai Feili first offered her food, then thoughtfully packed some fish soup for her to take home to her mother, showing he was aware of her situation. Touched, Yu Fei thanked him tearfully. They proceeded with costume fittings, ensuring the measurements were perfect, and then changed into practice clothes. During their rehearsal, which involved incorporating Peking Opera martial arts movements and props like a fan, Yu Fei accidentally pricked Bai Feili's hand.

Seeing the blood, he asked her to bandage it, remarking that he was "glad" to be wounded by Liu Xichan. Yu Fei questioned if the play was profitable, to which Bai Feili admitted they "lose money almost every time." Despite the financial aspect, Yu Fei found herself drawn to "South Song," appreciating its sad but profound story about choice and fate in the scholar's recurring dreams.

She shared her own interpretation, suggesting that even a fleeting glance could signify a love that spanned "thousands of years." Bai Feili resonated with her "ten thousand years at a glance" ending, extending the sentiment to family affection. He then took her to a control room, demonstrating how stage lighting (flowing light, follow spots) and sound effects were used to emphasize characters, outline their movements, and narrate the story, creating empathy for the audience.

He proposed that if she was still willing after the performance, they could explore that "ten thousand years" ending together. Unbeknownst to them, Qin Feng from Ande Group visited the hospital to inquire about Yan Peishan's condition. The doctor informed her that Yan Peishan had stage three cervical cancer, which had spread significantly, but was currently stable. Qin Feng, with an unfriendly expression, instructed the doctor to notify her of any changes.

Later that night, while at her mother's bedside, Yu Fei realized her bracelet (golden with three osmanthus flowers) was missing and called Bai Feili to ask if he had it. As Bai Feili looked at the bracelet he possessed, Guan Jiu called him with alarming news: all the stage costumes and props had been vandalized. She reported that swords were broken, umbrellas torn, clothes ruined with gum, and posters destroyed, including Liu Xichan's costume.

She decided to check the surveillance cameras, vowing that they would still emerge victorious. In the hospital, Yu Fei's mother, Yan Peishan, once again subtly encouraged Yu Fei to prioritize her career and praised Bai Feili's kindness over Xiao Dao. Yu Fei asked her mother if she had truly been indifferent when Yu Fei was sent away, recalling how she needed her mother's bracelet to sleep at night. Yan Peishan, however, claimed to have been "happy" without her. After her aunt brought medicine, Yu Fei's mother urged her to leave for her commitments, and Yu Fei departed, with her mother reminding her to bring bird's nest.

Episode 4 Recap

On the day of the formal performance, Yu Fei arrived late to find the venue in disarray, with the stage setup, props, and costumes damaged. Accused by the other troupe members of being responsible, Yu Fei was told that all the intricate work, from the week-long poster design to the two months spent on props and half a year on costume drafts, was now ruined.

They insisted she was the only one who could have done it, as she and the boss were the only ones there the previous night. Yu Fei dismissed their accusations, urging them to focus on salvaging the situation instead of wasting time on speculation, as the show was about to begin.

Yu Fei immediately called Hao Shi, who was at a comic convention, and threatened to expose all his secret comic-hiding spots to his mother if he didn't mend Liu Xichan's damaged costume within thirty minutes. Hao Shi reluctantly agreed to try. Meanwhile, the troupe members had already decided that Guan Jiu would replace Yu Fei, dressing her in a sample costume, despite Guan Jiu's protests that she was unprepared.

Just as Yu Fei, holding the mended costume, prepared to step down, Bai Feili intervened. He stopped her, insisting that she perform and stating his belief that she was innocent of the sabotage. The other members protested vehemently, calling Yu Fei a traitor and demanding she not be allowed on stage, but Bai Feili firmly took the costume, declaring he wouldn't regret his decision, a sentiment Yu Fei echoed.

Yu Fei then took the stage, captivating the audience with her stunning performance, blending both singing and martial arts. During her act, she missed urgent calls from her aunt, who was trying to reach her from the hospital. Her mother, Yan Peishan, was undergoing emergency resuscitation, her condition critical with multiple notices issued for family signature. Despite her mother's struggle, Yu Fei’s performance earned thunderous applause, leaving the audience and even the skeptical troupe members in awe.

However, after the successful show, Yu Fei collapsed on stage, feeling an ominous premonition. Outside the venue, a data-driven discussion revealed that Yu Fei had surpassed Lingjiu in popularity. A project investor, Mr. Zhang, withdrew his support from Lingjiu's project based on these real-time metrics, prompting Lingjiu’s manager to quickly offer a collaboration involving Jiubai Studio's new talent.

Backstage, Guan Jiu found Bai Feili, who shared his intention to re-arrange "South Song" following the performance, acknowledging Yu Fei was the perfect choice for Liu Xichan, praising her versatile skills. Suddenly, Yu Fei received another frantic call and rushed out, with Bai Feili following her. On the street, Yu Fei was cornered by Jiubai's enemy and his men, who tried to entice her to join their studio with offers of double or triple Bai Feili's pay.

Yu Fei vehemently refused, calling him "filthy" and dismissing his offers. When Jiubai's enemy callously asked if she was rushing to a reincarnation or a funeral, Yu Fei, enraged, slapped him. This provoked his men to attack her, but Brother Dao bravely intervened, urging Yu Fei to leave. He was then ambushed and injured. Witnessing this, Yu Fei grabbed some paint and splashed it on the attackers, then helped the bleeding Brother Dao escape.

They spotted Bai Feili in his car, and Yu Fei tried to get his attention, but upon seeing Brother Dao’s blood, Bai Feili froze and almost lost consciousness. Yu Fei quickly hailed a taxi to take Brother Dao to the hospital. Despite Brother Dao's insistence that she go to her mother first, Yu Fei brought him in, leaving him with nurses before rushing to the emergency room.

The elevator stopped, forcing her to run up multiple flights of stairs, but she arrived too late. The doctor announced Yan Peishan's death at 6:30 PM. Overwhelmed, Yu Fei collapsed by her mother's bedside, remembering her mother's words describing a "little girl" as the freest fish, caught by no one. As Yu Fei walked despondently through the hospital corridor, a woman approached, revealing she had paid her mother's hospital bills.

When Yu Fei asked the amount to repay, the woman coldly stated that one shouldn't ask for the sum if they can't afford it. She then revealed she helped Yu Fei out of spite, wanting Yu Fei to suffer because Yan Peishan had been with her husband before their marriage and later appeared during her happiest time. The woman declared her intent to ensure Yu Fei would "never hold her head up for a lifetime," just like her mother.

Yu Fei defiantly retorted, questioning if this was a life she chose, lamenting her childhood without a father and now without a mother, declaring that a person who has lost her mother fears nothing. Shortly after, Bai Feili arrived at the hospital. A nurse informed him of Yan Peishan's death, causing him to faint.

He had mistakenly thought Yu Fei's name was Yan Peishan and only realized Yan Peishan was Yu Fei's mother—and learned Yu Fei's true name—from the nurse's explanation. Three months later, Hao Shi arrived at his dream workplace, Jiubai Studio in Shanghai.

He marveled at its unique design and the newspaper article detailing Bai Feili's mysterious fainting incident and how "South Song" was shelved as Bai Feili searched for the "one person" he believed could play Liu Xichan, mistakenly looking for "Yan Peishan." Other studio members pressed Hao Shi for information about "Yan Peishan's" whereabouts, believing he knew the truth about her departure and wanting to apologize.

Hao Shi maintained his ignorance, but eventually, he offered Guan Jiu a clue: the Shandengting troupe. Meanwhile, a deep divide existed within Jiubai Studio. While everyone wanted to work on the "Dragon Scale" project, Bai Feili consistently refused, believing Jiubai should be original creators, not mere executors of others' pre-planned visions. Guan Jiu reminded him that the studio needed projects to survive, especially after three months of inactivity.

She confronted Bai Feili, asking if he was searching for the character of Liu Xichan or the person Yan Peishan. Bai Feili corrected her, stating he was looking for Yu Fei, the only person who truly understood Liu Xichan, whose return was essential to restart the "South Song" series. Guan Jiu agreed to tell him Hao Shi's clue if Bai Feili would meet the "Dragon Scale" investors that night at the Shandengting troupe.

Despite having visited Shandengting many times without success, Bai Feili agreed, still determined to find Yu Fei. Yu Fei had moved into a new home in Shanghai and was settling in with Wang Zhongqiang. He expressed his protectiveness, warning her about the safety of keeping keys on the doorstep and gifting her a potted plant, symbolizing rootedness and longevity, in contrast to transient cut flowers.

He recounted her lifelong habit of moving with just a single suitcase, emphasizing her independent spirit. Wang Zhongqiang, now a "big salesman" at the X Club, Shanghai's largest entertainment venue, offered to support her, but Yu Fei insisted on working at Laoqi Restaurant to earn money while pursuing her dreams. Her true ambition was to enroll in a drama school in Shanghai to fulfill her late mother's wish: to "break the cloud and become famous."

She declared her unwavering commitment, saying, "If I leave for good, then I'm leaving for good." Wang Zhongqiang drove her to work on his electric scooter, which he found more practical for Shanghai's congested roads, reminding her not to forget her drama school admission ticket. He was later reprimanded by his manager for low sales and warned to improve quickly or be fired, but a new colleague offered to help him.

Episode 5 Recap

Following a pivotal opera performance where Yu Fei captivated audiences, tragedy struck as her mother passed away. This loss was compounded by Bai Feili's perceived abandonment of Yu Fei during a critical moment when she was confronted by thugs, which left her to face danger alone.

Three months later, Bai Feili is consumed by guilt and a desperate search for Yu Fei, while his Jiubai Studio struggles, as he refuses to compromise artistic integrity for commercial projects like "Dragon Scale," despite the team's dire financial state. Amidst this, Yu Fei, having lost everything, finds herself fearless and has moved to Shanghai, aspiring to become a celebrated opera star by studying for a new opera school entrance exam.

A mysterious woman, who paid Yu Fei's mother's hospital bills, revealed her cruel intention to make Yu Fei suffer, only to find Yu Fei undeterred by further pain. In Shanghai, Brother Dao, who accompanied Yu Fei, finds himself working at X Club, handing out flyers. He strikes up a conversation with a college student who claims to have lost his keys and is now "experiencing life."

The student fabricates a story about X Club's shuttle bus being the only way home, and despite Brother Dao's initial suspicions, they bond over their shared experiences and become friends. Meanwhile, Yu Fei is working diligently at a hotpot restaurant, collecting plates and aspiring to learn martial arts from a chef. Her efforts are interrupted by the restaurant manager, who reminds her to focus on her duties.

In the kitchen, she spots a coworker watching a livestream from Shandengting, featuring her junior apprentice showcasing daily rehearsals at the opera house, where her senior, Lanting, is teaching. This sight stirs a mix of emotions in Yu Fei, who has been away from her troupe. At a fountain rumored to grant wishes, Bai Feili tosses a coin, hoping to encounter "her" again.

Across the fountain, he spots Yu Fei, who is also making a heartfelt wish to her late mother: to become a celebrated opera star, even without returning to Shandengting. Bai Feili approaches her, promising to help her fulfill this dream, but Yu Fei, startled, attempts to flee. He manages to catch her, questioning if she seeks the character Liu Xichan or the person Yan Peishan. A lengthy chase ensues, leaving both exhausted.

When Bai Feili's shoelaces come undone, he refuses to tie them, fearing Yu Fei's escape. Yu Fei ultimately kneels to tie them for him, but mischievously knots both laces together, causing him to trip and allowing her to make her escape, inadvertently dropping her admission form. Yu Fei seeks refuge in Shuji's shop, a mutual friend of both, but Bai Feili soon follows, holding Yu Fei's dropped admission form, which he insists on returning.

Yu Fei, exasperated, tells him to leave it on a table, but when he threatens to tear the document, she emerges. At that moment, Shuji locks the front door from the outside, trapping them inside. Bai Feili, frustrated by the lack of Wi-Fi, tries to explain he has an important investor meeting that night and suggests postponing their personal conflict. Yu Fei, however, remains deeply resentful, reminding him of a past incident where he left her in danger.

After a heated exchange, Yu Fei points to a hidden door behind a stack of books as an exit. As Bai Feili starts to move the books, he accuses her of having Stockholm syndrome. Simultaneously, Guan Jiu is in a desperate attempt to maintain a crucial investor meeting for "Dragon Scale." She tries every tactic to stall, from telling jokes to playing music demos, but the impatient investors depart due to Bai Feili's unexpected absence.

Her former junior, Jiajun, further dampens her spirits, candidly reminding her that "dreams don't provide financial support" and urging her to acknowledge her financial struggles. Yu Fei leads Bai Feili to what she sarcastically calls an "emergency safe room" in Shuji's shop. Inside, Bai Feili recognizes a suit that Yu Fei had pulled down during a past incident, and they recall previous events.

He confronts her about withholding her real name, to which she replies that "Liu Xichan" was sufficient for his purposes. Bai Feili sincerely apologizes for his past actions, expressing empathy for her feelings of betrayal and the pain of not being with her mother in her final moments. Yu Fei accepts his apology but demands that he stop pursuing her, hoping they can finally go their separate ways.

Bai Feili hesitates, mentioning he still possesses her bracelet, an item he believes holds significant sentimental value, symbolizing companionship. Seeking further retribution, Yu Fei cunningly points to a window as their escape route. As Bai Feili begins to climb out, she quickly unlocks the main door from the outside, locks him back inside, and exits, declaring that this act will make him understand how she felt. Bai Feili is left infuriated but is later freed by Shuji.

Back at the studio, Guan Jiu confronts Bai Feili, seething with anger over his absence, which jeopardized their "Dragon Scale" project. Bai Feili apologizes and promises to find a solution for "Dragon Scale." He then announces his new project, "South Song 2: Dream of the South Song," which he believes will bring greater artistic integrity and financial success, freeing the team from commercial compromises. Guan Jiu is highly skeptical, noting his past reluctance to even re-stage the original "South Song."

She reveals that the studio's hamster, Cang, is gravely ill, symbolizing Jiubai Studio's precarious state. She emphasizes that "Dragon Scale" is their last hope, warning that without it, the upcoming Suzhou Comic Con will mark both Jiubai's debut and its final performance. Bai Feili acknowledges her concerns but insists he has his own strategic considerations.

While Yu Fei works at a coffee shop, Hao Shi, working on a group assignment, discovers that Yu Fei had locked Bai Feili up the previous night, causing him to miss a critical meeting. He warns her that this blunder could lead to the studio's collapse. Yu Fei remains unrepentant, angering Hao Shi, who reveals he has been covering for her, falsely telling others she was at Shandengting.

Their conversation is interrupted by Hao Shi's classmates, who mock and bully him, ordering expensive drinks which they expect him to pay for, affecting his mother's allowance for him. Yu Fei intervenes, splashing a drink on them. She then makes a special spicy drink, which she tricks them into trying, and fiercely defends Hao Shi, recounting instances of his past bullying and declaring herself his protective "sister." The bullies quickly retreat.

At Jiubai Studio, as the team is busy with product placements, Bai Feili announces a halt to current projects to initiate "South Song 2: Dream of the South Song." Before he can fully address "Dragon Scale," Guan Jiu quickly interjects, declaring that the studio will no longer pursue it, citing it as "too commercial." This news visibly disappoints the staff, with one member lamenting the loss of an opportunity to pay a year's rent.

Guan Jiu tries to ease the tension by offering to treat everyone to a meal, implying that the decision was hers. Brother Dao calls Yu Fei, who is still washing dishes at her restaurant. He expresses concern for her hands, deemed precious for opera, and offers his financial support, which Yu Fei politely declines, citing her need to earn money for rent, exam fees, and debts.

Her manager then scolds Brother Dao for making a personal call, reminding him of sales targets and potential termination. To meet his quota and impress a client named Wei Sir, Brother Dao and his college student friend, Wei Shao, dress in women's clothes for a performance. During this, Wei Shao receives an unexpected video call from his father, Old Tian Zong, who believes he is abroad studying.

Quick-thinking Brother Dao helps Wei Shao create a fake background, fabricating a story about financial street research and thesis writing after a workout, successfully deceiving his father. Wei Shao's father warns him against alcohol and trouble. After the call, Wei Shao praises Brother Dao as the most resourceful salesman he knows, crediting him with saving his living expenses, and orders more drinks. Later, Yu Fei visits a sushi convenience store for discounted sushi.

Bai Feili appears, attempting to purchase the second discounted box, but Yu Fei coolly rebuffs him, paying full price for her single box. Bai Feili, buying both, offers one to Yu Fei as an apology for wasting her time yesterday. Yu Fei accepts but insists he join her, stating that wasted time must be repaid with time. As they eat, Bai Feili, allergic to eel, tries to trade his eel sushi for her cucumber sushi.

Yu Fei playfully teases him about his inability to use chopsticks, suggesting a pampered upbringing. He clarifies that he is merely an office worker, asking her to shed her preconceived notions. She then directly questions his persistent, almost compromising efforts to cast her as Liu Xichan. Bai Feili begins to explain that he needs to clarify some things but accidentally spills sauce.

While he steps away to buy tissues, Yu Fei's coworker, Da Ge, drops by, voicing concerns about her long hours and Jiubai Studio's lack of projects, which he dismissively calls her "interest group." Bai Feili, returning, overhears their conversation, learning about the struggles his team members and Yu Fei are facing due to his artistic pursuits. He is overcome with guilt, realizing his pursuit of "100% purity" has led to his colleagues enduring hardship in silence. Yu Fei, sensing his distress, gently reassures him not to be too self-reproaching, suggesting that embracing change might not always be a bad thing.

Episode 6 Recap

Brother Dao, bruised from a beating by Wei Sir, visits Yu Fei. She asks who beat him so badly, but he remains silent. As Yu Fei tries to clean his wounds, she can't find a band-aid. Brother Dao laments that she forgets more than just band-aids, reminding her that it’s their 18th anniversary of knowing each other. Yu Fei then understands his sullen mood. They decide to take a picture to commemorate the occasion.

Brother Dao reflects on his past belief in pure ideals for his friends' dreams, realizing they were struggling unseen. He then wishes her a happy 18th anniversary. Bai Feili brings snacks for his studio and decides to take Xiao Cang, the hamster, home. He informs Xiao Cang that he is taking him home that night. Having decided to pursue the "Dragon Scale" project, he sends an email to the investors, which remains unread.

Later, Lingjiu and her associate meet with Mr. Chen, the investor for "Dragon Scale." During the meeting, Bai Feili orchestrates an incident where a server accidentally spills food on Lingjiu, creating a distraction that leads Lingjiu and her associate away. Bai Feili then steps in, introduces himself as Guanshan Qianchong, founder of Jiubai, and apologizes for missing their previous meeting.

He presents his innovative concept, showcasing a dish called "The carp leaping over the dragon gate" and explaining its ancient legend and relevance to "Dragon Scale." Mr. Chen is impressed by the creativity and Bai Feili’s ambitious vision to expand the model into an entire stage. Bai Feili further demonstrates his resolve by offering to only sign the contract and receive a deposit after an initial inspection, assuring Mr. Chen that Jiubai, though a startup, has the expertise.

Impressed by Bai Feili’s boldness, Mr. Chen agrees to the collaboration. When Lingjiu and her associate return, they find Mr. Chen gone and Bai Feili having already secured the "Dragon Scale" project. Bai Feili then tells them he paid for their meal and offers them to join him. Later, Lingjiu sees Yu Fei clearing plates at the restaurant and taunts her, calling her "Liu Xichan" and demanding she sing.

When the manager explains Yu Fei is just a cleaner, Lingjiu insists Yu Fei demonstrate her tea-pouring skills with a long-spouted kettle. Yu Fei, confident despite her lack of stage experience, performs the complex maneuver flawlessly. As Yu Fei finishes, Lingjiu deliberately trips her. The kettle falls, but Bai Feili, appearing unexpectedly, shields Yu Fei from the hot water, sustaining burns himself. Lingjiu expresses concern for Bai Feili, but he prioritizes Yu Fei and takes her away to the hospital.

Yu Fei carefully applies medicine to Bai Feili’s burns. Bai Feili attempts to get her WeChat contact information, jokingly referring to himself as a "human specimen" that requires payment for viewing. He explains that given their frequent encounters, exchanging contact information is reasonable. Yu Fei complains that ever since meeting him, she has encountered constant misfortune and even lost her job today.

Bai Feili, in turn, questions if she wished to be splashed with hot water, leading Yu Fei to jokingly call him a "rapscallion." Yu Fei then directly asks Bai Feili why he didn't open the door for her in Suzhou. Bai Feili tries to explain, but Yu Fei interrupts, stating that no matter his reason, she cannot forgive him for that incident.

As Yu Fei prepares to leave after applying the medication, Bai Feili stops her, revealing that his hamster, Xiao Cang, has crawled into her bag. Yu Fei expresses annoyance at the hamster's antics. Bai Feili then explains that hamsters symbolize the ephemeral nature of creative groups, urging them to dedicate themselves entirely to their passions.

He believes that as long as Xiao Cang continues to run in its wheel, they will remain vigilant, and perpetually pursuing what one loves keeps youth alive. He then extends an invitation for Yu Fei to join Jiubai, emphasizing that she is destined for the stage. Yu Fei, however, is skeptical, believing he only wants her to play Liu Xichan.

Bai Feili counters that her goal of entering an opera academy is also for a stage, offering her both a performance platform and a stable job, even volunteering to tutor her in English for her upcoming exams. Yu Fei humorously declines, citing his "expensive" tutoring fees, to which Bai Feili proposes deducting it from her salary, a suggestion that further irritates her.

Yu Fei, after cutting the tomatoes for Xiao Cang, asks Bai Feili to return her bracelet, which she states is very important to her, and muses if its return would mean they wouldn't meet again. As she prepares to leave, she accidentally cuts her finger while preparing food for Xiao Cang and asks Bai Feili for a band-aid. Seeing her bleeding finger, Bai Feili immediately feels unwell. He quickly closes his room door, then collapses inside.

Yu Fei, hearing the thud and receiving no response, realizes he might be hemophobic. Concerned for his safety, she forces the door open and finds him on the floor. She helps him to his bed. He takes her hand and pleads with her not to leave, stating that he feels cold. Yu Fei gently covers him with a blanket and offers to find a thermometer.

He then pulls her into a tight embrace, and they share a kiss, which Yu Fei willingly returns. Meanwhile, Brother Dao waits outside Yu Fei’s house, having fallen asleep. A fortune teller attempts to engage Brother Dao, claiming he has "romantic luck," but Brother Dao brushes him off. The next morning, Yu Fei tries to leave Bai Feili's room quietly but hears voices outside. To avoid being discovered, she attempts to escape through the window.

Just then, Bai Feili’s grandparents, Mr. Shang and Mrs. Shan, arrive and notice a woman, Yu Fei, jumping out the window. They immediately tease Bai Feili, who has just woken up, about the "wild" girl they saw. Bai Feili is startled by their unexpected early arrival, as they were supposed to come a day later after a speech in Antarctica.

He tries to deny having a girlfriend and claims they misunderstood, but they insist they clearly saw a beautiful, long-haired girl resembling the "Guns and Roses" band members. While claiming to be open-minded, they chastise him for not offering the girl breakfast after she stayed overnight, calling such behavior "scumbag-like." They even demand he call her back for breakfast. Later, at the breakfast table, Bai Feili tries to sneak away from his grandparents, but his grandmother insists he eat.

They continue to press him about the mysterious girl and when he will bring her home. To escape the interrogation, Bai Feili jokingly refers to her as their "granddaughter-in-law" and uses this as an excuse to rush out, promising to bring her back within three days. Yu Fei returns home to find Brother Dao asleep outside her door.

She wakes him up, and he immediately expresses his concern, questioning where she was all night and why she didn't answer his calls. Yu Fei vaguely explains she was occupied with "private matters." Brother Dao then reveals that his clothes are torn because Wei Sir beat him again when he went to apologize. Yu Fei scolds him for fighting, reminding him of his past motto of "actions speak louder than words."

Feeling misunderstood and unappreciated, Brother Dao becomes even angrier, asserting that despite his "hooligan" image, his main concern is for her. He emphasizes that he waited for her all night, even bringing her supper after losing a fight. Deeply upset, he leaves in a huff. Bai Feili waits downstairs for Guan Jiu after she finishes work late.

He informs her that he has successfully secured the "Dragon Scale" project, a fact she already knew from the contract sent the previous night. He reaffirms his commitment to recovering lost projects and relationships. Guan Jiu, softened by his efforts, forgives him. Bai Feili then offers a sincere apology for his stubborn and self-righteous behavior, emphasizing that Jiubai Studio belongs to all its members, not just him and Guan Jiu.

Guan Jiu commends him for acknowledging his mistakes and suggests they go out for a meal together. At Jiubai Studio, Bai Feili conducts a demanding rehearsal for the "Dragon Scale" project. He strictly critiques a dancer for adding a subtle movement, explaining that such a detail would be lost on a large stage, visible only to those nearby, not the distant audience.

He instructs the team to revise the script with Mengru and stresses that while "Dragon Scale" is their first commercial venture, they cannot compromise on quality. He also demands costume rehearsals to begin in three hours. His staff, observing his unusually strict and volatile demeanor, speculate that his mood swings are a sign of "love gone wrong with relationship crisis." Meanwhile, Bai Feili is privately frustrated that Yu Fei has not yet accepted his friend request on WeChat.

Episode 7 Recap

Yu Fei was engrossed in studying, reciting philosophical concepts about essence being simple and hidden. On her phone, she saw a friend request from Bai Feili. She deliberated, wondering if accepting it would imply interest or make her seem casual, yet refusing it would appear petty. Deciding to focus on her books, she was then interrupted by a phone call from Shuji. Meanwhile, Brother Dao, dressed in a bulky mascot costume, was distributing flyers for the X Club.

He was publicly ridiculed and taunted by Young Master Wei and his group, who reminded him of past grievances and insulted him, even throwing his costume to the ground. Yu Fei, witnessing Brother Dao's humiliation, felt upset and called her junior fellow apprentice, Lanting, for help.

Lanting, who had become a popular internet celebrity, was already live streaming, showcasing Beijing Opera content and offering 100-yuan unlimited coupons for X Club's "Beijing Opera Night," along with discounts for Daydream Space milk tea. Yu Fei briefly joined him, haggling over payment in "spicy chicken wings," but Lanting insisted on "milk tea" as currency. Yu Fei, needing to return to her studies, left quickly, even forgetting the promised milk tea.

That evening, a disheartened Brother Dao returned to the club, only to be astonished by a large crowd of enthusiastic older patrons. The manager, however, was far from pleased, scoffing at the idea of "old men and women" generating significant revenue and sarcastically suggesting they sell "wolfberry tea of 1982." He angrily reprimanded Brother Dao for his "stupid idea."

Soon after, Lanting, on stage, announced the "Beijing Opera Night" and introduced Yu Fei as the special guest, revealing that she had orchestrated the entire event to help Brother Dao. Yu Fei captivated the audience with her Beijing Opera performance, earning praise from Bai Feili's grandmother, who was surprised by her youthful talent and strong voice.

Yu Fei invited the audience to sing along, and the grandmother eagerly joined, exuberantly declaring she would order "half a dozen Remy Martin," a boast quickly dismissed as a joke by the grandfather. As Yu Fei left the stage, the grandmother's sharp eye caught her bag, recognizing it as the one carried by the girl who had left Bai Feili's house that morning.

The grandfather, attempting to pursue Yu Fei, strained his back in the process, forcing the grandmother to stop him. After the performance, Brother Dao expressed his gratitude to Yu Fei, who affirmed their "lifelong friendship," a statement that left him visibly heartbroken. They shared breakfast, during which Yu Fei shared a personal philosophy: "someone told me that you should stick to your dream, and do it insanely well."

Brother Dao noted Yu Fei's change, to which she playfully responded that she was now his "Fei Ge." He confirmed that her efforts had helped him pass his performance assessment. The following morning, the X Club's manager tried to fire Brother Dao for his unconventional event. However, the club's boss intervened, scolding the manager for neglecting his employee and allowing him to be bullied.

The boss praised Brother Dao’s creative "Beijing Opera Night" theme but pointed out its immature planning, specifically the lack of safety measures like AEDs and safety mats for the elderly audience. Impressed by Brother Dao’s potential, the boss challenged him to achieve a monthly profit of one million to earn a promotion. Meanwhile, a weary Bai Feili had waited up all night because his grandparents had forgotten their keys after their late-night dance party.

He complained about their "punk life" disrupting his sleep, while his grandmother playfully blamed the grandfather for excessive drinking, mentioning that Brother Dao had even given them "three bottles of shooter." The grandmother also remarked that she should have taken her husband to the club to hear Yu Fei sing.

Yu Fei experienced a flashback to her childhood, recalling a painful memory of her sick mother, Yan Peishan, desperately begging her father, Yu Qing, for help, revealing Yu Fei was his daughter. Yu Qing's then-partner, Ms. Qin, reacted with anger and eventually left him, giving him all her possessions. In the present, Yu Fei was at her father’s Yu’s TCM Clinic to deliver money.

She encountered Ms. Qin, who still harbored resentment and made a cutting remark about Yu Fei's deceased mother, sparking an argument. Ms. Qin then threw away food intended for Yu Qing. Shortly after, Bai Feili's grandparents arrived with Bai Feili, intending for Yu Qing to treat the grandfather's sprained back. The grandparents reminded Bai Feili that Yu Qing had helped him with a fracture when he was a child.

Bai Feili, making an excuse about work, tried to leave, but his grandparents insisted, teasing him about his childhood fear of Doctor Yu. Despite their protests, Bai Feili left, promising to return and pick them up. Inside the clinic, Bai Feili's grandparents, drawn by the delicious aroma, found Yu Qing enjoying a bowl of Yu Fei's homemade noodles. They were surprised to discover Yu Fei was Yu Qing’s daughter and eagerly requested some noodles for themselves.

After eating, they cleverly manipulated Yu Fei into driving them home, claiming Grandpa's injury left them unable to shop or cook. Yu Fei, recognizing Bai Feili’s house, tried to leave at the doorstep, but the grandparents insisted she come inside and cook for them. As Bai Feili descended the stairs, he was startled to see Yu Fei, lost his footing, and tumbled down. Yu Fei, in turn, tripped over him, landing on top in a comical and awkward embrace.

Bai Feili’s phone fell, and he picked it up, deliberately activating a "Find My Phone" feature and accepting Yu Fei’s pending WeChat friend request. He then proceeded to list a multitude of specific dietary preferences and explained that his kitchen appliances lacked instruction manuals, subtly inviting her to ask him for help. Yu Fei, maintaining her composure, brushed off his offer. The grandparents, observing this exchange, noted their "familiarity" and "playing hard to get," pleased with their matchmaking efforts.

That evening, Yu Fei meticulously scheduled her time, calculating every minute spent on daily tasks and at Bai Feili's home, aiming to carve out more hours for English study. She then realized her English notebook was missing. Meanwhile, Bai Feili hesitated to send Yu Fei a WeChat message, unsure of what to say. His grandparents, delighted with their matchmaking progress, delivered Yu Fei's forgotten notebook to him.

Bai Feili realized it wasn't his, and upon discovering a torn page, recalled drawing Yu Fei in a similar notebook at Shuji’s shop, suspecting this was the very one. Yu Fei, however, had already had the foresight to tear out that specific page. Bai Feili, still holding Yu Fei's notebook hostage, texted her, demanding a "ransom" in the form of daily dinners and occasional lunches cooked at his house. He also playfully questioned her English study methods.

Yu Fei, struggling desperately with English and contemplating starving rather than learning more words, warned Bai Feili not to peek at her notebook, hinting at hidden content. She eventually resorted to a "desperate measure," sharing a website offering "black technology learning methods" for free if she could gather 500 likes on the shared post. Later, Hao Shi and Bai Feili, while at work, clicked on the website Yu Fei had shared.

To their dismay, the video, endlessly looping a promotion for "black technology learning methods" for 500 likes, refused to close. Hao Shi panicked about their boss catching them slacking off, but they managed to mute the incessant audio. Bai Feili, intrigued, wondered what strange "virus" Yu Fei was engaging with.

Episode 8 Recap

Guan Zhijiu, known as Guan Jiu, tried to maintain a low profile at her corporate job, dressing plainly to avoid drawing attention. However, her colleagues still gossiped, comparing her current appearance to her glamorous coser persona, criticizing her "million-worth photoshop skill" and "ugly" look. Her deputy director called her into his office, accusing her of engaging in "strange" activities that affected the department's image.

He cited her poor performance in the 3/6/1 annual evaluation, where she received F grades from all her colleagues, placing her in the bottom 10% for termination. Despite his claims of previously protecting her, Guan Zhijiu asserted that she was at the company to work and earn money for herself and her "nonsense hobbies," not to make friends. When the deputy director moved to fire her, she promptly demanded N+1 months of severance pay and her last month's project bonus.

Emotionally departing from her corporate job, Guan Zhijiu reflected on her studio being her "Teleportation Door" to a place she truly belonged. She then arrived at the Jiubai studio, bringing a celebratory batch of crayfish for her colleagues who were working hard on the "Dragon Scale" project. She promised them Boston lobsters once the project was complete, which they eagerly recorded as a promise.

The team noted that their boss, Bai Feili, had already left work to buy groceries, clearly implying he was on a date. Later that evening, Bai Feili arrived home with groceries and a bouquet of roses for Yu Fei, though he awkwardly claimed they were given to him for free by the food seller. Yu Fei, teasingly, incorporated the roses into a dish: "Rose tofu eggs."

Bai Feili's grandparents, aware of his affections, subtly prodded him about bringing a girlfriend home as he had promised. Bai Feili described his ideal girlfriend with a string of exaggerated flaws like being "petty," "bad-tempered," "vindictive," "revengeful," and even "snores," all while making eye contact with Yu Fei. His grandparents, however, saw through his pretense and exchanged knowing glances. His grandfather, a Chinese professor, even corrected Bai Feili's simplistic view of the historical figure Zhang Fei.

After dinner, Yu Fei finished cleaning the kitchen, but Bai Feili tried to keep her from leaving by falsely claiming she left oil and dust everywhere. While Yu Fei was tidying up again, she received a call from Dao Ge, who excitedly informed her that he had successfully gathered 500 likes for her, qualifying her for a free English lesson based on a "magical method for fast English-learning." Bai Feili overheard the conversation and became visibly jealous.

When Yu Fei finally departed, she realized she had forgotten her notebook. Just as she turned to retrieve it, she saw Bai Feili standing behind her, notebook in hand. He made a flimsy excuse about "buying something," but then suggested they "roam around" together. They ended up at a bus stop, a place Yu Fei frequented.

She explained that while no bus from there went to her home, she liked to sit and enjoy the free, panoramic night view of Shanghai's iconic landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jinmao Tower, and Shanghai Tower, contrasting it with the expensive alternatives. She shared her headphones with Bai Feili, inviting him to share in the tranquility. Bai Feili gazed at her, deeply moved.

As Yu Fei prepared to leave, he called her name and asked her to have dinner with him the next day as a thank you for returning her notebook. Although Yu Fei didn't explicitly agree, she was secretly thrilled. The following morning, Yu Fei intentionally met Bai Feili for breakfast at a casual sushi stall, quickly eating because she was rushing to her "Magical method for fast English-learning" class.

Bai Feili, suspicious of the program and eager to teach her English himself, tried to tell her something but was cut off. He quickly called to investigate and discovered the class was a scam designed to trick middle-aged and elderly people. Rushing to the location, he found police already apprehending the fraudulent teacher. He shielded Yu Fei from the scene and, on an impulse, blurted out that "your boyfriend also gets free."

Yu Fei blushed and asked who her boyfriend was, to which Bai Feili confidently declared himself her boyfriend, promising to help her pass her English exams within a week, despite her admitting she'd never dated before and found English challenging. Yu Fei agreed to consider a relationship, emphasizing that equality was key. She suggested they both act awkwardly or foolishly to achieve this balance.

She then dramatically pulled out a ripped page from her notebook and began to read aloud Bai Feili's "missing notice" poem that he had written for her. The poem described her "rushing into his world" and "escaping when he's not in the mood to clean," and how her "recklessness caused his world to crack." Bai Feili, embarrassed, tried to stop her.

He finally embraced her, interrupting her reading, and whispered the end of the poem directly to her: "Those cracks are where the light comes in." He then passionately kissed her by a wishing fountain. Unbeknownst to them, Dao Ge witnessed the kiss. In his mind, he fantasized about rushing forward, confessing his love, and Yu Fei choosing him. However, in reality, he was heartbroken and left unnoticed, analyzing the situation to rationalize his inaction.

He believed Yu Fei was either an undercover agent or had been scammed by Bai Feili, whom he considered a liar. He resolved to gather evidence of Bai Feili's "emotional fraud" to present to Yu Fei at the right moment, despite a friend's past warning that opportunities waited for no one. Later, as Bai Feili drove Yu Fei home, she was lost in thought, wondering how to react if he asked to come upstairs for a drink.

Bai Feili, sensing her inner turmoil, simply said goodnight and promised to take her somewhere tomorrow. Feeling inexperienced in matters of romance, Yu Fei consulted Shuji for "love quick-learning methods," for which Shuji offered a digital e-book for 15 yuan, with the first rule being to "act cute, flirt, and show vulnerability." The next day, Bai Feili took Yu Fei to the Jiubai studio.

The team, dressed as a "sorry squad," performed a dance to apologize for mistaking her for an informant at the Suzhou Comic Con. Bai Feili then invited Yu Fei to officially join Jiubai. She accepted, choosing the coser name "Feng He," explaining its poetic meaning related to wind and lotus. Amidst this, Guan Zhijiu, now known as Guan Jiu at the studio, proudly announced her resignation from her corporate job to dedicate herself fully to the "Dragon Scale" project.

Her colleague, Hao Shi, surprised her with a cheerful celebratory dance. Afterward, Bai Feili and Yu Fei went on a drive, but their car suffered a flat tire. While waiting for roadside assistance, Bai Feili suggested Yu Fei move into the attic of Zhan Yuan. He reasoned that since she already came daily to cook and he tutored her, moving in would save her commute time.

Yu Fei, wanting to prolong their romantic moment, playfully flirted, claiming it was cold and she wanted to wait with him, calling their predicament a "memorable event." Bai Feili, feigning ignorance, suggested calling her a car to go home. Frustrated, Yu Fei accused him of deliberately misunderstanding her and threatened to leave him and his "rubbish car" to wait alone. Finally, he understood her cues and asked her to stay with him a little longer until the rescue arrived.

Episode 9 Recap

Driven by jealousy over Yu Fei and Bai Feili's social media post, Brother Dao decides to uncover any flaws in Bai Feili. He enlists his junior, Xiao Zhu, to discreetly infiltrate Jiubai Studio, where they hide inside a giant instant noodle box. Inside the studio, Bai Feili is seen consulting with Guan Jiu about wig designs for the upcoming project, "Dragon Scale".

Witnessing their close interaction, Brother Dao misinterprets the situation and bursts out of his hiding spot, loudly demanding Bai Feili to release Guan Jiu and questioning his loyalty to Yu Fei. Guan Jiu, confused by the stranger's outburst, asks who he is. Yu Fei, arriving just then, recognizes Brother Dao (by his real name, Wang Zhongqiang) and, surprised by his presence, quickly covers for him, claiming he is an old friend who simply came for instant noodles.

Later, at a barbecue stall, Yu Fei introduces Brother Dao as her childhood friend, but Bai Feili promptly introduces himself as Yu Fei's boyfriend. To get Yu Fei away, Brother Dao sends her to order lamb chops. He then confronts Bai Feili, reminding him of their previous encounters in Suzhou and asserting that he will closely monitor Bai Feili's actions.

Brother Dao warns that if Bai Feili ever hurts Yu Fei, he will not be forgiven, and declares he will not give up on Yu Fei. Bai Feili retorts that such declarations only come from losers. A drinking contest ensues, and Bai Feili eventually becomes heavily intoxicated. Brother Dao helps Yu Fei take the inebriated Bai Feili home. He expresses his displeasure that Yu Fei had already introduced Bai Feili to his grandparents without informing him.

Attempting to help Bai Feili change, Brother Dao is put off by the situation and leaves Yu Fei to manage, further questioning her relationship with Bai Feili and voicing concerns about her being taken advantage of. Drunk, Bai Feili mistakes Brother Dao for a pillow and clings to him, prompting Brother Dao to push him away and tightly wrap him in a quilt.

When Brother Dao pointedly asks Yu Fei if she truly loves Bai Feili, she affirms it with a resolute nod. The next morning, Bai Feili wakes up bewildered by the tight wrapping and playfully asks Yu Fei about any "special hobbies," ignoring her attempts to explain. He then cautions her against secretly meeting her childhood friends, threatening to "punish" her similarly if she does.

Struggling to accumulate enough money for her tuition fees, Yu Fei declines Bai Feili's offer of financial assistance. While studying at a coffee shop, she encounters her junior apprentice, Lan Ting, who has an injured arm from working as a stunt double. Lan Ting shares that he earns a substantial amount per job, which makes Yu Fei contemplate putting her dreams on hold to pursue stunt work.

She dismisses Bai Feili's messages about picking her up and takes a stunt job, only to discover she is the double for Lingjiu. Seeking to undermine Yu Fei, Lingjiu intentionally asks the director to increase the stunt's difficulty, specifically requesting that Yu Fei perform a dangerous aerial swing followed by a severe fall to evoke audience sympathy. During a challenging high-wire stunt, Yu Fei’s safety wire unexpectedly breaks, causing her to fall.

Briefly unconscious, she experiences a recurring dream of a lion. She awakens to find Bai Feili by her side; he had rushed to the set after checking her location. Bai Feili gently carries her away, but Yu Fei, downplaying her injuries, insists on completing her final shot to receive her payment. Concerned for her well-being and upcoming exams, Bai Feili offers to cover her pay, but Yu Fei firmly rejects his charity and returns to finish filming.

Frustrated, Bai Feili angrily walks away. After her final shot, Lingjiu once again tries to provoke Yu Fei. Yu Fei confronts her, revealing a pair of pliers found in Lingjiu’s bag, suggesting she tampered with the wire. Lingjiu then reveals that Bai Feili had already confronted her, accusing her of attempted murder and threatening legal action or the termination of her acting career if she continued to target Yu Fei.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, Yu Fei decides to quit stunt work. As she leaves the set, she finds Bai Feili still waiting for her, and despite their earlier disagreement, he extends his arm, inviting her to walk with him. Noticing Yu Fei's worn-out shoes, Bai Feili buys her a new pair and personally helps her put them on, reassuring her that he will always find her, no matter where she goes, and hopes their disagreements will not linger.

Yu Fei reflects on her life, acknowledging how she has always had to work harder than others to achieve her goals but has never given up. She expresses her desire for them to move forward "shoulder to shoulder," supporting each other while maintaining their individuality. She also embraces the idea that accepting help is a form of strength and assures Bai Feili that she will not hesitate to "trouble" him in the future.

Seizing the moment, Bai Feili asks her to move into Zhan Garden, openly admitting, "I need you." He encourages her to show vulnerability when necessary, emphasizing that true strength lies in not being afraid to show weakness. Deeply moved, Yu Fei agrees. Subsequently, Yu Fei moves into Zhan Garden.

On one occasion, Bai Feili's grandparents are busy tinkering with some gadgets, which they quickly hide when Yu Fei unexpectedly enters, playfully pretending to give her grandfather a massage to divert her attention. Later, while out shopping with Guan Jiu and Mengru, Mengru realizes that Yu Fei and Bai Feili are living together. Mengru, spotting a man she affectionately calls "Yukito brother," rushes towards him, almost tripping over her long skirt, but he catches her just in time.

Episode 10 Recap

Mengru, dressed in a cosplay outfit, stumbled as she rushed towards a boy she admired, calling out to him, "Yukito Brother." Her imagined rescue by him didn't materialize; instead, she fell. The boy, far from offering help, criticized her attire, remarking that she should "wear less strange clothes like these, or you will fall over again."

He further commented that girls like her, who embrace the "2-D world," often do so because they are not outstanding in real life and seek "presence in another world." Yu Fei, witnessing this, became furious. She chastised the boy, telling him not to speak ignorantly about things he didn't understand, emphasizing that true respect for others and understanding of their interests ultimately reflects respect for oneself.

Mengru's friends, including Guan Jiu, then comforted her, reassuring her that the boy's lack of understanding was his loss, and that her true "Yukito" would love only her in her own story. Later, Mengru, feeling self-conscious, changed into regular clothes. However, Guan Jiu and her friends quickly convinced her to change back, insisting she looked better in her cosplay attire. Grateful for their support, Mengru agreed.

Yu Fei, curious about the anime convention, then asked Mengru to show her around, explaining there were many things she didn't understand. Brother Dao prepared diligently for Yu Fei's upcoming exam, buying her an abundance of stationery. He recalled a humorous incident from their primary school days when Yu Fei, after lending all her pens, found herself without one during an exam. He explained his extensive preparations, ensuring she would still have supplies even if she lost most of them.

He then visited Yu Fei's apartment to drop off the supplies, only to find the potted plant he had given her withered, which saddened him. Despite Yu Fei's relationship with Bai Feili, Brother Dao remained resolute in his affections, declaring that "opportunities are for those who are prepared," and if Yu Fei and Bai Feili were ever to break up, he would be ready to step in.

He pledged to "insist on liking her," certain that eventually, she would still see him. At Jiubai Studio, Bai Feili and Guan Jiu discussed the full dress rehearsal for their "Dragon Scale" project. Guan Jiu questioned whether to inform the team that the upfront payment was contingent on passing this rehearsal. Bai Feili, however, believed that withholding this information would prevent unnecessary anxiety and improve their performance.

He stated that as long as the team had confidence in him, that was enough. His sentiment was echoed by the members themselves as they emerged, assuring him of their readiness. Zhuang Sheng confirmed that all props were prepared, including a demo video for the cold fireworks. Ma Fang confirmed the dance routine, and another member assured that costumes were ready. Bai Feili thanked them, entrusting the success of the rehearsal to their collective efforts.

During the rehearsal, the team performed a scene featuring two knights drinking gourd wine, which was explained as a tribute to a classic moment in the "Dragon Scale" game. They highlighted how they had skillfully integrated classical elements into the dance and costumes while also enhancing the "2-D world" presence to make the overall presentation more engaging. Mr. Chen, the investor, was highly impressed, praising the "implantation" as "out of my expectation," "funny and refreshing."

He invited Bai Feili to his office the following afternoon to sign the formal contract and assured him that the down payment would be promptly transferred. He also requested the theme song by the next morning for promotional purposes and suggested extending the contract duration and diversifying its forms. Bai Feili readily agreed to all terms. That evening, Bai Feili offered Yu Fei some last-minute exam coaching.

He had her close her eyes, then revealed a "Pass" sign, declaring it her good fortune for the next day and guaranteeing her exam "will definitely be smooth." He playfully teased her about other potential outcomes like "love" and "money," noting she wouldn't think of him tomorrow or get rich. He then presented her with his true "magic weapon" for exams: a necklace made from a game coin.

He recounted how this coin once helped him dominate the arcade, and he had since transformed it into a "chance coin" for decision-making. Yu Fei, intrigued, decided to test its efficacy by asking if Bai Feili loved her. Bai Feili, with a knowing smile, told her she didn't need the coin for that answer, implying his feelings. Yu Fei, in a playful mood, then insisted on going to sleep to prepare for her exam.

The next morning, Bai Feili drove Yu Fei to her exam. Yu Fei confidently told him she would make him proud. Shortly after, Bai Feili received a distressing phone call: their theme song had been leaked. Li Hentian's studio had released an original song online with an identical melody, which was undoubtedly plagiarism. To make matters worse, Wuchang, the theme song's creator, was missing and unreachable.

Bai Feili, maintaining his composure, quickly assigned tasks: Mengru was to keep calling Wuchang, Zhuang Sheng was to check Wuchang's home, and Gui Deng and Hao Shi were to search his frequent hangouts. They were all to reconvene at the recording studio in half an hour. Meanwhile, Yu Fei's exam began. Despite initial nervousness, a glance at the coin necklace from Bai Feili boosted her confidence, and she began answering questions with renewed vigor.

Wuchang eventually woke up disoriented on a pedestrian bridge. He contacted Bai Feili, explaining that the gourd used in yesterday's rehearsal contained real alcohol, a fact he only discovered after drinking it. To avoid jeopardizing the client cooperation, he had forced himself to "stick to the performance." However, he collapsed backstage and had no memory of subsequent events. Wuchang also disclosed that Zhuang Sheng had made the gourd prop, prompting Bai Feili to consider this revelation thoughtfully.

Half an hour later, everyone except Guan Jiu gathered at Jiubai Studio. The atmosphere was tense, filled with accusations and bickering. Wuchang vehemently blamed Zhuang Sheng for placing real wine in his prop gourd, while Zhuang Sheng denied it, pointing out that only the team knew of Wuchang's low alcohol tolerance, suggesting an internal mole. As the argument escalated, Bai Feili asked about Guan Jiu's whereabouts.

Mengru revealed that Guan Jiu had gone to X Club to meet her university junior, Zhou Jiajun, hoping to make a last-ditch effort to save the "Dragon Scale" project. Hearing this, Hao Shi, concerned for Guan Jiu, immediately rushed to the bar. At the X Club, Zhou Jiajun informed Guan Jiu that his company was also considering Li Hentian's studio, who had presented identical conditions.

He suggested that the best way to address the negative publicity was to "fire Sir Wuchang and stay unaffected." Guan Jiu, however, firmly refused, asserting that "Sir Wuchang is one member of Jiubai." In a desperate attempt, Guan Jiu offered Zhou Jiajun an item she claimed he had wanted ten years ago, hoping this act of "good faith" would "help Jiubai win."

However, Zhou Jiajun returned the item, explaining that his desires had changed over the decade and he no longer liked it. The item turned out to be an expired packet of wheatmeal for dumplings. Just then, Hao Shi arrived at the bar, finding Zhou Jiajun helping a visibly intoxicated Guan Jiu leave. Hao Shi intervened, confronting Zhou Jiajun. Drunken Guan Jiu began to behave erratically, using her high-heeled shoe as a phone to call her parents.

She emotionally lamented how all her classmates were successful and living lives her parents had envisioned for her, while she felt she had achieved "nothing" despite "sticking to your original dream" for ten years. She spoke of the "sympathy" in her classmates' eyes when they congratulated her on her persistence. Hao Shi, deeply touched, tried to console her, reminding her that "the regret at 18 is different from that at 30," and her choices had broadened her world.

Guan Jiu, however, dismissed his words, insisting he wouldn't understand. Hao Shi gently guided her into a taxi, promising to stay by her side as they journeyed into her "30s." Back at Jiubai Studio, internal strife continued to brew. Members openly criticized each other, with one suggesting installing surveillance cameras and personally inspecting all items brought into the studio to prevent "strange props" from causing further trouble. Accusations of being a "suspect" and fabricating stories were hurled back and forth.

To quell the rising tension, Bai Feili intervened. He pulled out a stack of money and offered it as "the payment for people who want to leave," allowing those who wished to depart to do so. He then asked Guan Jiu to step out, giving anyone who wished to leave the space to do so voluntarily. Guan Jiu refused, arguing that even if the project failed, "We still have a long way to go."

She believed that their long-standing friendship could be mended over "eating a hot pot." Bai Feili then posed a poignant question to Guan Jiu: if she had made such a mistake, could she truly forgive and forget it, even if others did? He explained that "not everyone who embarks on a journey together can reach the same destination."

He emphasized that precisely because they were "friends for years," they "can't force him to stay," and should instead "leave him a chance to choose." Guan Jiu, visibly pained, expressed her deep reluctance to see anyone leave, listing each team member's preferred hot pot seasonings, a testament to her profound bond with them. While she acknowledged that Bai Feili was right, she asked for some time alone.

Bai Feili then reminded Guan Jiu that "we are partners," so she didn't have to bear every burden alone. Meanwhile, Yu Fei, after her exams, saw the negative online comments about Jiubai Studio and decided to address the netizens. Sensing Bai Feili's low spirits, she performed a unique and difficult Peking opera technique called "dwarf walk" to cheer him up. Bai Feili found her serious performance of the comedic act highly amusing.

Yu Fei explained she had secretly learned this and other techniques from senior performers in her troupe, dedicating her time to opera while others studied English. Bai Feili inquired if she had always intended to be an opera singer. Yu Fei shared a story about a senior who, despite his dream of singing senior male roles, was assigned a harlequin role, only to grow too tall and lose his voice, ending his opera career.

This made her feel that opera had chosen her, just as the "Chinoiserie stage play chose you," making them both fortunate. Bai Feili then asked her what she would do if someone who had promised to embark on a journey and work alongside her chose to give up. Yu Fei thoughtfully responded that such individuals might have simply reached "a station where they have to get off."

She explained that starting a journey together doesn't necessitate reaching the "destination together," as "Everyone has the right to choose their destination." Yu Fei then humorously added that she probably wouldn't grow to be 1. 9 meters tall, so she would have to continue singing opera. Bai Feili lightheartedly agreed, remarking that if she kept staying up late, reaching that height would indeed be unlikely, and then suggested they go to sleep.

Bai Feili later visited a large tree, where he celebrated Edward's 16th birthday, leaving him his favorite comic book. He whispered for Edward to communicate in his dreams if he desired other gifts next year. An unseen person observed this, commenting on "The brother" still treating Edward "like a child" and sending "these toys."

Episode 11 Recap

The Jiubai Studio members gather, visibly worried, with everyone attempting to shoulder the blame for a recent mishap. It is revealed that Gui Deng accidentally leaked the team's theme song and has decided to resign. Despite the team's heartfelt pleas for him to stay, and a lighthearted reminder from one member about a toy he still owes her from a claw machine, Gui Deng remains resolute.

He explains that his son, Xiao Le, harbors a dream of competing in a robot competition in America, and he doesn't want his own aspirations to inadvertently hinder Xiao Le's path. As a memento, Gui Deng offers Xiao Le's robot creation to the team. Bai Feili acknowledges the absence of "dimension doors in the real world," yet insists on a personal farewell after their long acquaintance.

Later, Gui Deng reassures Xiao Le that he will soon secure a better job, enabling them to travel to Los Angeles for the robot competition, thus fulfilling his son's dreams. A flashback transports us to a time when the Jiubai team visited Bai Feili in the hospital, where he was recovering from a fracture. They banter good-naturedly, commending his "incredible spirit" for completing a performance despite his injury, and celebrate the official launch of Jiubai Studio.

During his hospital stay, Bai Feili encounters a young boy distraught over the impending amputation of his right hand, fearing it will prevent him from playing the lead in his school play. Bai Feili comforts the boy by recounting the tale of Edward, a comic book hero who, despite losing both an arm and a leg, gained mechanical prosthetics and rose to prominence.

Bai Feili promises the boy a custom-made, even cooler robotic arm, an exciting script, powerful background music, weekly cola deliveries, and even offers Gui Deng's son, Xiao Le, as a playmate. The team collectively describes themselves as "doctors and nurses from another dimension," a world of boundless possibilities where anyone, regardless of their circumstances, can shine and become a superhero. They invite the boy to join their extraordinary world and capture the moment with a group photograph.

At the Beijing Opera exam, Yu Fei casually discusses her strategy with a fellow candidate, suggesting her admission is a certainty due to the limited number of applicants, and views the exam as a strategic move to catch the eye of talent scouts. When it's her turn, she honestly tells the examiners that she applied because she "is only good at singing Beijing Opera," a skill she's honed for ten years since joining an opera troupe at age twelve.

She confidently claims mastery of all lancer poses. However, as she prepares to demonstrate, her gaze falls upon her former mentor, Uncle, in the audience, and she freezes. Later that evening, the studio members gather for a hotpot dinner. Mengru points out the matching outfits worn by Hao Shi and Guan Jiu, playfully calling them "sister and brother." Hao Shi quickly rejects the "younger brother" label.

Guan Jiu then teases Hao Shi about taking her home after she "lost her memory" the previous day, preparing hot soup, and even restocking her fridge. Hao Shi, feigning innocence, attributes these actions to a driver he merely put her in the car with, suggesting she give him a five-star rating.

Guan Jiu then reminds him of a precious basketball memorabilia, number 2325, that she gave him before her memory lapse, threatening to give it to someone else if he doesn't truly want it, which he immediately claims. The team then awkwardly discusses how to address the delicate matter of the envelope Bai Feili prepared for Gui Deng, which they believe Gui Deng did not accept.

Some suggest a subtle approach, while others advocate for directly stating that "nobody wants your money." Just then, Bai Feili arrives, calmly announcing that Gui Deng and Xiao Le are indeed en route to Los Angeles, dispelling their concerns. He then officially declares the restart of "Dream of the South Ⅱ," aiming for it to be the highly anticipated midnight finale of the online New Year's Gala.

Zhuang Sheng proposes selling the "Dragon Scale" lantern wall, a prop from their previous project, on a second-hand platform to generate funds for new props. Excited by the prospect of wishes coming true, everyone rushes to make their wishes on the lantern wall. Hao Shi tries to coax Guan Jiu into revealing her wish, but she steadfastly refuses.

Bai Feili, standing slightly apart, states he doesn't believe in wishes, but if he were to make one, it would be to fall on "your planet" if his adventurous journey were to ever end. At that poignant moment, Yu Fei arrives, and their eyes meet, a romantic connection palpable between them.

At home, Yu Fei tries to divine Bai Feili's investment success using her hamster's paws, an idea inspired by a comic book, but the hamster almost bites her again, prompting her to jokingly lament their lack of "deep friendship." The doorbell rings, and Yu Fei opens it to find Guan Jiu, who enters and comfortably takes her own slippers, suggesting familiarity. A slightly unsettled Yu Fei asks if she's "been here before."

Guan Jiu quickly clarifies that she has only "been here a few times, for work affairs." Bai Feili and Guan Jiu then immerse themselves in discussing "Dream of the South Ⅱ"'s business, focusing on venture capital and marketing strategies. Guan Jiu expresses concern about Jiubai Studio's current data not being compelling enough for potential investors, questioning the premature announcement of the project before securing capital.

Bai Feili, emphasizing "public praise" over opinion leaders, proposes utilizing Jiubai's official social media account for promotion. They delve into metrics like page views and unique visitors, seeking innovative solutions for their marketing challenges. As they examine a document, Guan Jiu queries a specific entry on a list: "White Flame Pterosaur." Yu Fei, observing their intense discussion, asks Bai Feili if he needs a break, noting it might be a long night.

He declines, and when Yu Fei offers her help, Bai Feili gently tells Guan Jiu to manage her own tasks and not to trouble "my girl." Sensing Guan Jiu's hunger, Yu Fei volunteers to cook, proudly declaring the kitchen her domain. While Yu Fei is busy, Guan Jiu visits the hamster, and Yu Fei is surprised and a little irked to see the hamster, which often bites her despite her daily feeding, calmly resting in Guan Jiu's hands.

Upon returning with freshly cooked noodles, Yu Fei sees Bai Feili covering a sleeping Guan Jiu with a blanket. A surge of jealousy prompts Yu Fei to take the blanket and rearrange it herself, candidly telling Bai Feili, "I don't like it when you cover other girls with blankets; I'm stingy." Bai Feili, recognizing her jealousy, attempts to soothe her with playful banter. Their lighthearted exchange inadvertently wakes Guan Jiu, who discreetly pretends to remain asleep.

Yu Fei visits Shuji's house, hoping to find investment books to assist Bai Feili and Guan Jiu, who are working late. Shuji, however, advises her that she's not suited for such endeavors and suggests she simply "loaf around." Yu Fei then finds a comic book titled "Dream of the South," realizing it's the inspiration for Bai Feili's stage play.

She expresses her disappointment that the comic remains unfinished and then queries Shuji about the scientific basis of sky lanterns and whether they can truly be retrieved, as depicted in the story. Shuji, using "tonight's weather" data—a northeast wind at level three and a full moon—along with the lantern's specified mass of 60 grams, calculates an approximate landing zone, assuring Yu Fei that it perfectly aligns with the comic's narrative. Convinced, Yu Fei decides to attempt retrieving a sky lantern.

However, moments after Yu Fei leaves, Shuji realizes her error: she mistakenly used "tomorrow's weather" for her calculations and tries to contact Yu Fei to warn her. Meanwhile, at the bar, Brother Dao's manager complains to Mr. Lou about the unusual clientele Brother Dao has attracted—elderly locals from square dancing—despite Brother Dao's success in resolving the persistent noise complaints.

Mr. Lou summons Brother Dao and inquires about his promise to achieve a monthly profit of one million yuan, to which Brother Dao confidently replies he is "almost there." Impressed by Brother Dao's ingenuity and strong communication skills, Mr. Lou promotes him to manager, relieving him of his sales responsibilities, and extends an invitation to a wine party on the 27th. Brother Dao gratefully accepts, vowing to meet expectations.

Celebrating his promotion, Brother Dao distributes wolfberries and other small gifts to the neighborhood aunties. He playfully reveals he is still single and asks for introductions. When asked about his ideal partner, he humorously describes a "straightforward and ill-tempered" girl who prioritizes her beloved over friends and might "discard you after she got a boyfriend" and ignore messages.

The aunties, bewildered, advise him to end such a relationship, which he comically agrees to do, insisting he must convey it to her face-to-face. As Guan Jiu descends the stairs, carrying a stack of books, she accidentally collides with Yu Fei, who is rushing out. Yu Fei quickly apologizes. When Bai Feili questions her haste, Yu Fei invents an excuse, claiming a water leak in her rented house requires her immediate attention.

Bai Feili, while reminding her of her business plan due tomorrow and the importance of "Dream of the South Ⅱ," suggests a date after her commitments are fulfilled tomorrow and tells her to rest early. Bai Feili then tells Guan Jiu that she, too, can go home, assuring her he will manage the remaining work. However, Guan Jiu gives him a knowing look, asking, "Didn't you tell that thing to her?"

She then gestures towards the books she dropped, emphasizing, "There are so many pages of it hidden here," implying significant undisclosed information. Bai Feili appears thoughtful. Meanwhile, Yu Fei meets Brother Dao, who playfully tries to prevent her from jokingly "breaking up" with him, offering drinks as a peace offering. Yu Fei expresses her disappointment that Bai Feili is too busy to accompany her.

Brother Dao, asserting that a "girlfriend should be the first priority," offers to join her in releasing sky lanterns, as he also has a wish to make. They arrive at a secluded spot that Yu Fei claims Shuji calculated as the optimal location. Yu Fei writes her wish on a card: "Please Make Bai Feili's Dream Come True, And Let Him Get Investment Successfully."

Brother Dao teases her about her handwriting and then shares his own long-standing desires for wealth and a beautiful girlfriend, proudly revealing his recent promotion to manager and his growing savings. Yu Fei sincerely congratulates him. She explains the intricate ritual of releasing lanterns at the auspicious time of 11 p. m. to 1 a. m. and then retrieving their burned remains to create talismans that must be carried until the wishes manifest.

As the auspicious moment approaches, Brother Dao hesitates to light their lanterns simultaneously, worried about which one to chase if they fly in different directions. Yu Fei, in a selfless gesture, takes his lantern, intending to ensure his wish takes flight first. They release the lanterns, and as Yu Fei's lantern begins to descend, she impulsively gives chase.

Despite the sudden heavy rain and Yu Fei's reckless pursuit, Brother Dao pulls her along, using his bag to shield her from the downpour as they run after the falling lantern, which eventually lands in a river.

Episode 12 Recap

Bai Feili was exhausted from work and impatiently awaited Yu Fei's reply, sending her a message to ask if the pipe was fixed. Unbeknownst to him, Yu Fei and Brother Dao had spent the entire night searching for the sky lantern Yu Fei had released earlier, which held a wish for Bai Feili. Despite their efforts, they couldn't find it. Brother Dao comforted a disheartened Yu Fei, assuring her that wishes could still come true.

Secretly, Brother Dao had seen Bai Feili's car and suspected he had witnessed them together. He then found his own sky lantern, which held a wish for Yu Fei and himself to be happy. He pondered his role as a "supporting character" in love, making silent efforts and wondering if they would ever truly be seen. Yu Fei eventually replied to Bai Feili, confirming the pipe was fixed and asking about their date plans.

However, Bai Feili, feeling a pang of jealousy from having seen Yu Fei with Brother Dao, coldly told her he was busy and they would have to postpone their date, then sped off in his car. Meanwhile, Jiubai Studio was gaining momentum, and Bai Feili, along with Guan Jiu, was actively seeking investments. They sat outside in a strong wind, eating hamburgers and dissecting the subtle rejections from their recent meetings.

Guan Jiu noted that direct investment on the spot only happened in TV dramas and that while their project's prospects were good, "South Song" wasn't a major IP, making "South Song 2" seem premature. Bai Feili suggested attending a social gathering as another avenue for investment. Guan Jiu warned him he might encounter his estranged father, Bai Juyuan, but Bai Feili was determined for the sake of the studio.

At the party, Bai Feili gained entry by claiming to be Bai Juyuan's guest. Inside, several business magnates were discussing market trends, particularly the potential collaboration between Lou Shitang and Bai Juyuan on a Russian mine, and their dismissive views on emerging industries like cultural innovation and e-sports. When Bai Feili attempted to join their conversation, he was met with scorn, one magnate suggesting that security was too lax.

Bai Feili countered that his presence represented the new generation's stance on traditional industries and offered them an opportunity to reconnect with youth trends, presenting his proposal for a Chinoiserie stage play. The magnates, however, scoffed at the idea, deeming it unprofitable. Just as the discussion intensified, Bai Juyuan arrived, sarcastically asking Bai Feili why he wasn't using his father's money. Feeling affronted, Bai Feili excused himself and went to the restroom.

Brother Dao followed him, confirming Bai Feili had seen him dropping Yu Fei off that morning. He then warned Bai Feili not to hurt Yu Fei and handed him Yu Fei's sky lantern, which she had risked her life to release. Brother Dao revealed Yu Fei's sincerity and selflessness, urging Bai Feili to secure the investment for her sake, but asked him not to mention his involvement to Yu Fei, wanting his selfless contributions to remain unspoken.

Bai Feili realized his misunderstanding of Yu Fei. Simultaneously, one of the magnates, impressed by Bai Feili's presentation, discreetly gave him a business card, indicating interest. Reflecting on his father's broken promises from childhood, Bai Feili felt a pang of guilt for rejecting Yu Fei earlier. He drove home, where he found Yu Fei playing with her hamster, Xiao Cang. He rushed to apologize, though Yu Fei didn't understand why.

Bai Feili then happily announced he had secured investment, thanks to her "amulet," and proposed they still have their date, as the day wasn't over. Yu Fei, asking him to close his eyes, led him to their backyard, which she had transformed into a "Zhan Garden Camping Club." She explained that knowing his busy schedule, she brought the camping experience home, complete with barbecue, a bonfire, and a hand-painted tent, jokingly offering more themes for a fee.

Overwhelmed with happiness, Bai Feili embraced and kissed her, thanking her for the amulet. The next day, as Yu Fei tidied up, she stumbled upon Bai Feili's childhood scrapbook, remarking on his handsomeness as a child. She also found a large delivery. Bai Feili walked in, playfully accusing her of "spying" on him. He then proposed another date, noting that last night she had planned it, and tonight it was his turn.

He revealed the large package was for her and that today marked their 100th day together. Yu Fei was secretly thrilled. Opening the package, she found a beautiful gown and a pair of high heels. Bai Feili then went to his father's house to discuss his project, only to find it was his father's and stepmother, Ms. Zeng's, wedding anniversary. A new maid didn't recognize him until Ms. Zeng introduced him.

Ms. Zeng's attitude was cold; she reminded him he hadn't visited in years and pointedly told him his father's study had been moved, implying his old room was no longer his. Ignoring her, Bai Feili found his father, Bai Juyuan, who brought up old memories of punishing Bai Feili for playing football indoors and lying, suggesting he wouldn't be pursuing "these things" if he had focused on football. Ms. Zeng later interrupted their conversation, inquiring about Bai Feili's project.

Bai Juyuan, without hesitation, pointed out her ulterior motive, stating that if he invested in Bai Feili, she and her nephews would face no competition for positions in the company. Ms. Zeng, realizing she was exposed, tactfully left. Bai Juyuan then dismissed Bai Feili's "South Song" project as insignificant but offered to invest in Jiubai Studio under strict conditions: Bai Feili had to double the studio's 7 million yuan valuation within a month.

If successful, Bai Juyuan would invest 20 million for 40% equity; otherwise, he would acquire the studio, fire everyone, and force Bai Feili to return to the family business. Bai Feili countered that the studio wasn't his alone and he needed to consult his partners. When he tried to leave, Bai Juyuan insisted he stay for the anniversary party, revealing he had specifically called Bai Feili there to present a united family front.

Reluctantly, Bai Feili endured the party, where Ms. Zeng gave a speech emphasizing companionship. He was introduced to his father's business associates. Later, he overheard Ms. Zeng discussing a "new legal person" and an "operation scheme," mentioning that Bai Juyuan would be on a business trip the next day, and she would meet someone in the afternoon.

Feeling suspicious, Bai Feili excused himself, telling his father he had an "important date" and sarcastically wishing their relationship was as "perfect as it seems." Meanwhile, Yu Fei was at home, practicing walking in the high heels Bai Feili sent. Her friend Hao Shi encouraged her to "enter Bai Feili's world" to truly understand if they were compatible, suggesting that dating was a journey of self-discovery.

Yu Fei playfully teased Hao Shi about his sudden wisdom, only for him to reveal it was "secret crush" experience related to Guan Jiu. As time passed, Yu Fei grew hungry and anxious, worried Bai Feili might stand her up. Just then, she heard the sound of a car locking downstairs. Peeking out, she saw Bai Feili, holding a bouquet of flowers, standing in the courtyard, ready for their date.

Episode 13 Recap

Bai Feili picked up Yu Fei, who was elegantly dressed, and took her to a restaurant he had specially reserved. He explained that the owner was his friend and had agreed to keep the establishment open for an additional two hours for them. Upon seeing the expensive menu, Yu Fei felt awkward and unsure of what to order. Bai Feili playfully stood up and pretended to be a server, charmingly recommending dishes like roadside seafood barbecue and Italian mushroom noodles.

He then lovingly placed a napkin on her, explaining that eating with a loved one keeps you young. After dinner, they relaxed in a back garden, sitting on a rocking chair under the stars. Yu Fei pointed out a particular star, her childhood confidant since she was twelve. She recounted how she joined the Shandengting troupe at that age and struggled with the intense training.

One day, overwhelmed, she ran away and got lost, but the clear night sky allowed her to see that star. As she walked and talked to it, she eventually found her way back to the troupe. Since then, the star became her trusted friend, listening to all her sorrows. Bai Feili asked how she always found it, and Yu Fei felt as if the star was also looking for her, always appearing first whenever she looked up.

Feeling happy that Bai Feili always shared the best with her, Yu Fei decided to share one of her best friends – the star – with him. She told him he could confide in the star about any human-related weariness or sadness, but only while they were together. If they ever broke up, this privilege would be revoked.

Bai Feili loudly declared to the star that he would never let Yu Fei run away or get her way, promising to take care of her from now on. At Jiubai Studio, Bai Feili informed Guan Jiu that he had secured a 20 million investment. However, his father, Bai Juyuan, who provided the funds, demanded that the studio's valuation double within a month, or he would consider acquiring it.

Bai Feili proposed inviting a prominent figure back into the public eye to generate buzz and commercial opportunities, believing it was the fastest way to increase their valuation. Despite Guan Jiu's reservations, Bai Feili had already arranged a major online battle with Feiwo Studio. Meanwhile, Hao Shi sent Yu Fei a link to the battle website, eagerly telling her that Jiubai's legendary coser, Ruoshui, would make an appearance.

He described Ruoshui as a "first goddess" and a "legendary-level coser" who had once collaborated with Guan Jiu on a stunning "Sakuran" performance but had not appeared since. Yu Fei entered the virtual battle stage, where Guan Jiu was competing against Lingjiu. Although Feiwo initially had the advantage, Guan Jiu began to close the gap. Lingjiu then deliberately faked a fall to elicit sympathy, pulling ahead again.

Seeing their score drop, Yu Fei stepped in, delivering a heartfelt performance that helped Jiubai regain some ground. Suddenly, Yu Fei's screen went black. Guan Jiu, a computer expert, immediately suspected a hacker attack on their backend system. She quickly counter-attacked Feiwo's server, successfully drawing "Ruoshui" out. Yu Fei was surprised to note Ruoshui's striking resemblance to Bai Feili. Unaware of the battle, Bai Juyuan was at home, discussing business with his stepmother.

He stated his intention to give the company's marketing department to Bai Feili because Bai Feili was his biological son. His stepmother discreetly recorded this conversation, clearly aiming to protect her nephew's position within the company. Shortly after the battle, Bai Feili, who was the persona "Ruoshui," began to feel unwell. Yu Fei rushed to Jiubai Studio to check on him.

From her angle, she saw Guan Jiu attending to the ailing Bai Feili, creating a profound misunderstanding as it appeared to her as if they were kissing. Heartbroken, Yu Fei silently turned and left. Yu Fei went to her aunt's house to make dumplings. Bai Feili soon arrived, but Yu Fei's demeanor remained distant. Her aunt, however, was delighted by Bai Feili's arrival, especially after he presented her with a set of deep-sea seaweed cosmetics.

Bai Feili charmed her aunt with compliments, making her laugh heartily. Yu Fei tried to warn her aunt that Bai Feili was "cunning and crafty," always speaking "sweet words" to manipulate people, and that he was typically unhelpful around the house. Bai Feili, in turn, affectionately called Yu Fei "innocent" and "lovely," then proclaimed himself as Yu Fei's boyfriend, expressing his desire for marriage and assuring her aunt that he would handle household chores after they married.

Yu Fei, growing increasingly frustrated by the conversation and Bai Feili's persona, made it clear that they were not getting married. Her aunt, realizing Bai Feili's surname was Bai, asked if he was related to the prominent Bai Juyuan, known for the Shang&Shan Group. Bai Feili confirmed that Bai Juyuan was indeed his father, the heir of Shang&Shan Group. Unable to bear their cheerful interaction, Yu Fei left the room.

Her aunt wondered if Yu Fei's reaction was a genuine tantrum or a strategic "hard-to-get" tactic, prompting Bai Feili to go and find out. Bai Feili confronted Yu Fei, asking why she had left without a word and was avoiding his calls. Yu Fei, still upset, revealed that her house had been flooded by a heavy rain and she was busy with repairs, which was why she hadn't responded. Bai Feili questioned why she hadn't told him, offering to help.

Yu Fei then accused him of being secretive, stating she had to ask Hao Shi for his schedule and implying she learned about him through Guan Jiu. She finally revealed that she had witnessed him and Guan Jiu in a seemingly intimate moment at the studio. Bai Feili explained that he had been sick that night and was drowsy from medication, so he couldn't remember what had happened.

He admitted there were some things he wasn't ready to talk about, but pleaded with her not to doubt his feelings for her. Yu Fei confessed her confusion, feeling him sometimes close and sometimes distant. She expressed her jealousy of Guan Jiu, who had met him earlier, knew more about him, spent more time by his side, and could protect his inner vulnerabilities in a way she couldn't.

Bai Feili took her hand and placed it on his chest, reassuring her that his heart belonged to her and asking her to let go of her anger. Later, Yu Fei encountered a "Daydream Space" activity called "A Night For A Lonely Love Confession," which encouraged individuals to secretly or loudly speak their unspoken truths. Meanwhile, Hao Shi, seemingly smitten, spotted Guan Jiu on a bus.

He impulsively left his bag, chased the bus, and sat behind her, quietly protecting her as she slept, preventing her head from bumping against the seat. His affection for Guan Jiu was further revealed as he meticulously planned her meals, noting expiry dates for vegetables and reminding her to finish eggs in her fridge, all to ensure no food went to waste.

Episode 14 Recap

Bai Feili and Yu Fei walked through the town. Bai Feili recounted that Guan Jiu was his high school senior, and they established Jiubai Studio together due to their shared interests. Yu Fei then asked if he had ever liked Guan Jiu, to which he firmly replied no, asserting that he had only ever liked Yu Fei. When it was his turn to ask, Bai Feili inquired what Yu Fei liked besides Peking Opera.

Yu Fei took his hand, and when he eagerly assumed she meant him, she led him to her favorite mung bean soup shop. Inside the cozy shop, Yu Fei was warmly greeted by Uncle De, who prepared their bowls with extra care. Bai Feili, feeling playful, decided to celebrate Yu Fei’s "sixth birthday," explaining he wanted to have known her a year longer than Dao Ge, who had met her at seven.

Yu Fei then revealed she had never celebrated her birthday, her birth not being a "thing worth celebrating." Touched by this, Bai Feili insisted it was the most celebratory thing for him and urged her to make three wishes, not on candles, but on him.

Her first wish was for her mother to pick up her six-year-old self before she finished her mung bean soup, as she couldn't afford a second bowl and had to praise Uncle De for the free food. Her second wish was for her twelve-year-old self at the Shandengting troupe gate, knowing her mother wouldn't pick her up, but not to be afraid because opera would become immensely important to her.

Her third wish was not to be afraid or run away, but to arrive at twenty-two without a single misstep and meet Bai— before she could finish, Bai Feili gently covered her mouth, telling her that the third wish shouldn't be spoken, but would come true when she grew up, and he would be waiting to take her home.

A heavy rain then poured down, and back at Yu Fei’s place, Bai Feili, who had tried to fix Yu Fei’s leaking roof with waterproof tape, found his efforts fruitless. Yu Fei playfully compared him to the "Princess and the Pea" prototype, as he had never experienced a leaking roof before. With the waterproof tape failing, they decided to pitch a tent inside.

Bai Feili volunteered to get the bedsheets from the bedroom closet but nearly fainted upon entering the room. Yu Fei, seeing his distress, felt immense guilt, realizing she shouldn't have asked him. Later, inside their makeshift tent, Bai Feili confessed that he was Ruoshui, a fact Yu Fei admitted she had already guessed during their online battle. He then bravely shared that he had a "disease" that made him intensely afraid of certain things.

Yu Fei comforted him, dismissing it as a disease and stating that even superheroes had fears. She shared her own fears, like chili peppers making her cry, her mother not picking her up, and falling during practice, which still caused her nightmares. She assured him that "all scars will heal," making Bai Feili realize her unique superpower to lighten the weight of heavy things. Meanwhile, Guan Jiu was cleaning up when she saw a discarded drink, triggering a vivid flashback.

She remembered being bullied by classmates who accused her of snitching and costing their friend an interview spot. Bai Feili intervened, declaring that he was the one who broke the rules and he didn't need an interview. He then extended an invitation for her to join their club. Later, backstage, a nervous Guan Jiu was on the verge of tears, convinced she would only be hated more if she performed.

Bai Feili encouraged her to channel her emotions into her performance, to laugh loudly on stage, and make her detractors the ones crying in the dark. He then handed her a refreshing drink, which was the same drink she saw in the present. The next morning, Yu Fei woke to find Bai Feili gone. He had left her breakfast and a note from "Your butler, Xiao Bai," detailing that movers would arrive at 11 am.

Yu Fei chuckled, calling him a "life idiot." While putting away his wallet, she discovered his ID and realized it was his birthday, August 22nd. She quickly bought a cake and, while on the bus, spotted Bai Feili’s car, deciding to follow him. Bai Feili was meeting his father, Bai Juyuan, who mentioned picking him up for a dinner party to review a contract and "celebrate."

Bai Feili initially felt a flicker of hope that his father remembered his birthday, but his joy quickly vanished when Bai Juyuan clarified he was celebrating Jiubai Studio's valuation doubling, which had happened a week ahead of schedule due to an online live broadcast. Bai Juyuan offered to invest 30 million yuan but demanded a 60% stake, claiming to be investing in Bai Feili’s future, not just seeking easy profits.

Bai Feili countered, asking if it was an investment or a buyout, and asserted that his father could only hold dividend shares, not decision-making shares, emphasizing that the company would remain his. His father's assistant later advised Bai Juyuan that other investors were offering full decision-making power to secure a partnership with Bai Feili's thriving studio. Just as this tense negotiation unfolded, Yu Fei arrived at the club.

Yu Fei was escorted into the dining area, where she immediately encountered Qin Feng, who pointedly remarked that Bai Feili "doesn't need extra entertainment" and to "lock the door so just anyone can't come in." Bai Feili then introduced Yu Fei as his girlfriend. Qin Feng acknowledged knowing Yu Fei's mother and then proceeded to subtly insult Yu Fei, suggesting she was merely a "street performer" and better suited for food stalls.

When Qin Feng asked for a Chinese menu for Yu Fei, Yu Fei impressively engaged in conversation in English, even discussing the local delicacy, Tu Huangyou (crab roe butter), with the foreign guests. Undeterred, Qin Feng then challenged Yu Fei to "perform" by peeling crabs for everyone, while also making veiled remarks about her mother's reputation, linking her to historical courtesans and implying a shady past. Bai Feili intervened, stating his patience was limited.

Yu Fei then calmly responded, sharing her childhood memory of peeling two hundred crabs a day to pay for her school fees, asserting that those who eat crabs in restaurants are not nobler than others, as everyone's "smug face" at the top of the food chain is the same. She concluded by warning Qin Feng that if she ever heard her mother's name mentioned with disrespect again, she would not be so polite.

Yu Fei then excused herself and left, with Bai Feili rushing to follow her. Qin Feng, however, stopped Bai Feili, trying to poison his mind by claiming Yu Fei's mother had ruined Bai Feili's mother's marriage with Yu Qing, and alleging that Yu Fei herself left the Shandengting troupe due to an "illicit affair" with her master uncle, Ni Lin.

Concurrently, Shuji hosted "A Night For A Lonely Love Confession" at the Daydream Space, where the darkness was meant to encourage participants to open their hearts. Hao Shi attended, secretly listening, and Dao Ge made a casual appearance, praising Shuji's economical idea. Hao Shi confessed his feelings, lamenting that love felt like a lottery that others easily won while he had persisted for years without success, and expressing regret for not confessing earlier.

Guan Jiu also participated, speaking into the darkness about her "true guide" (implying Bai Feili) who had led her to everything she loved. She described her love as a journey into another dimension where she found what truly mattered and expressed relief that speaking her heart made her feel much better.

Episode 15 Recap

Yu Fei accidentally dropped and broke a valuable doll at a club. Mr. Fang, a staff member, was apologetic, and Yu Fei immediately offered to compensate for it at its original price. Bai Juyuan, present at the club, stepped in and offered to buy the entire collection of dolls as a welcoming gift for Yu Fei. Despite being told they were not for sale, Bai Juyuan insisted on buying them all and having them sent to Yu Fei's residence.

Yu Fei refused, stating she had already caused trouble and could not accept such an expensive gift. Bai Juyuan's wife, Zeng Qiu, then made some sarcastic remarks, implying that Yu Fei was being pretentious with her pride and that the doll was merely a ceramic toy. Yu Fei, however, firmly replied that regardless of their artistic or collection value, such items deserved to be cherished and were not for anyone to casually price.

Zeng Qiu left her contact information before departing. Bai Juyuan turned to Bai Feili, instructing him to understand the implications of an upcoming contract later that afternoon and to deliver the doll (presumably a replacement) to Yu Fei. Bai Feili, upset, questioned his father about his own worth and his mother's, asking if their value had depreciated since his birth 27 years ago, as it was his birthday. Bai Juyuan offhandedly wished him a happy birthday.

Bai Feili retorted that his father was not skilled as either a buyer or a collector. He then addressed Feng Yi (a housekeeper or aunt figure, referring to Zeng Qiu), stating that Yu Fei possessed upbringing and manners, which allowed her to tolerate Zeng Qiu at the dinner table. Bai Feili, however, admitted he lacked both. He then dramatically bought the doll himself, declaring that gifts should be symmetrical, and promptly smashed it, remarking that his father preferred broken things.

He instructed Mr. Fang to pack the fragments and send them to Bai's mansion, much to Zeng Qiu's exasperation. Outside, a frustrated Yu Fei, having taken a wrong turn, attempted to leave the area by climbing a wall, only to be spotted by a security guard. Bai Feili quickly intervened, claiming Yu Fei as "his girl." After she descended, Bai Feili scolded her for attempting to leave without a word, reminding her of a previous promise.

Yu Fei, still angry, admitted she had "screwed everything up." Bai Feili, however, expressed pride in having her as his girlfriend, commending her surprising progress in English, acquired from someone he described as having "super low cost performance." Yu Fei confessed she had studied English with such diligence because she wanted to understand Bai Feili's world. They then tried to share the birthday cake Yu Fei had bought for him, but it was already ruined.

Yu Fei then offered to sing "Happy Birthday" to him, but as he leaned in to kiss her, a fountain unexpectedly activated, spraying them with water. At the studio, Bai Feili and Guan Jiu discussed their plans. Shang&Shan Group had officially agreed to invest, with no demands for script changes or product placements. Bai Feili aimed for their studio to expand its influence and secure a spot in the top 20 for the network's New Year's Eve gala.

While their online popularity remained high, the crucial issue was the undecided male lead. Guan Jiu suggested Bai Feili take the role, arguing it would also allow him to spend more time with Yu Fei, who was taking classes at home, combining dating and rehearsals. Bai Feili teased Guan Jiu about her own dating needs, then announced his "free ride service" was discontinued, as he would be picking up Yu Fei and their routes wouldn't align.

He also called Yu Fei to inform her he would be late for a meeting that evening. Meanwhile, on a bus, Hao Shi approached Guan Jiu, admitting he was intentionally waiting for her and openly declaring his desire to escort her home every day, dismissing any other excuses she might offer. Back at Yu Fei's place, Brother Dao unexpectedly arrived, finding her anxiously checking her exam results online.

He scolded her for neglecting a plant and for not confiding in him about her recent family issues, mentioning Hao Shi had informed him. Yu Fei corrected him, insisting on using Bai Feili's full name. Brother Dao then pointed out she had forgotten their 18th anniversary, leading Yu Fei to wonder if he had feelings for her.

He vehemently denied it, claiming she was trying to change the subject to avoid her exam results and that such a revelation would jeopardize their friendship. Despite her nervousness, Brother Dao encouraged her to check her results. Yu Fei discovered she had been admitted to the opera school, reacting with joyous excitement. Soon after, she received a phone call from Bai Feili, and excitedly asked him what he wanted for dinner, planning to cook extra dishes to celebrate.

Witnessing her happiness, a heartbroken Brother Dao quietly left, after silently apologizing to Yu Fei and sharing his philosophy that "There are many things hard to say in your life, while liking you is not one of them. Only with the prefix 'friends' can it last a lifetime," as he placed a meaningful cup coaster.

Yu Fei returned home with groceries, intending to celebrate her success, but was disheartened when Bai Feili and her maternal grandparents acted as if they had forgotten it was results day. Her grandparents spoke of their recent travels to Serengeti and their longing for Chinese food, humorously requesting an "egg feast."

Feeling wronged, Yu Fei pretended to cry, but her family continued to tease her, suggesting she might have failed and encouraging her to cry it out or prepare for re-takes next year, perhaps settling for a life of domesticity. Bai Feili even joked about her intelligence. Finally, they unveiled a surprise celebration, a lively party with music and dancing.

Overwhelmed, Yu Fei reflected on her past fears of fleeting happiness, acknowledging that the joyous scene before her, surrounded by her family, was everything she had once longed for. She joyfully yelled to her late mother that she had been accepted into opera school and would become a star. Her grandmother, Mrs. Shan, spoke to Yu Fei about Bai Feili, observing that he had transformed since Yu Fei entered his life, attributing it to love.

She shared her own fears as a parent about raising Bai Feili to be a healthy adult after her daughter's passing, and expressed her relief and confidence in him since Yu Fei's appearance. Her grandfather, feigning a backache, called out to Mrs. Shan, who then reminded Yu Fei that family are "people you have to love." Yu Fei also received a congratulatory message from her father on her phone.

Later that evening, a slightly tipsy Yu Fei was carried to bed by Bai Feili. She recalled a dream where a magnificent lion lifted her up as she tried to escape it, asking Bai Feili if he was that lion. Bai Feili admitted he also had fears and wasn't sure if he could protect her well. Yu Fei playfully dismissed his concerns, assuring him that she wasn't a baby and could protect him too.

He then asked if she had seen his photo album and if she truly wanted to know "the other side" of Bai Feili. Yu Fei reaffirmed her love and asked if he would always love her and stay by her side. Bai Feili responded with a heartfelt "I love you" and expressed his desire to be with her forever. Yu Fei confidently told him she was not afraid, knowing he would protect her, and she, in turn, would protect him.

Separately, Bai Feili met with Bai Juyuan to sign a contract. Noticing an extra million yuan, Bai Juyuan explained it was a belated birthday gift for Bai Feili, encouraging him to use it to buy gifts for Yu Fei to uphold the Bai family's image. Bai Juyuan advised him to be generous to make Yu Fei "docile and meek."

Bai Feili challenged his father's views, implying that his marriage to Zeng Qiu, who was "sensible enough" not to demand "meaningless feelings or time," meant she still desired those things but chose not to ask. Bai Juyuan then challenged Bai Feili to return and take over the company if he wanted revenge on Zeng Qiu, stating he didn't want the Shang&Shan Group to fall into others' hands.

Bai Feili responded by saying he found his father pathetic, having lived with someone for fifteen years only for his partner to still be considered an outsider. Zeng Qiu briefly entered the room, feigning to look for a pen before leaving. After Zeng Qiu's departure, Bai Juyuan remarked that Bai Feili was becoming more sensible by visiting more often, but suggested giving him more money for investments so he wouldn't need to return so frequently, thus saving his son's face.

As Bai Feili departed, he received an urgent call informing him of trouble at Feiwo Studio: Lingjiu had publicly announced the termination of their cooperation, and Zhuang Sheng, a "traitor," had switched allegiance to Li Hentian.

Episode 16 Recap

Bai Feili received an urgent phone call, learning that Lingjiu had just announced in a video her decision to terminate her cooperation with Feiwo. The news also revealed that Zhuang Sheng, a key member, had surprisingly gone to work for Li Hentian at his studio, Feiwo. In her video, Lingjiu explained her actions, stating she had joined Feiwo initially to provoke Bai Feili and was now leaving to help him.

Feiwo studio was in a precarious state, facing demands for compensation from Director Zhou of Dragon Scale if ticket attendance fell below 80%. Lingjiu was suspected of intentionally quitting to sabotage ticket sales, and Feiwo was also struggling with actor shortages and prop production. Amidst the chaos, Zhuang Sheng was observed to be the only one consistently working on props, arriving first each day, working silently and refusing payment.

At Jiubai Studio, the news of Zhuang Sheng's move sparked a heated discussion. Zhuang Sheng apologized to his colleagues, admitting he had nothing to say in his defense. Yu Fei, angry, questioned why he would help Feiwo, reminding him of their strained relationship and asking if Li Hentian had paid him. Zhuang Sheng denied taking any money from Li Hentian, but Yu Fei, still furious, declared she was going home to cook.

Bai Feili then approached Zhuang Sheng, acknowledging his freedom to work for Feiwo and that Jiubai had no right to interfere, but as a friend, he requested an explanation. Zhuang Sheng revealed that before playing Dragon Scale, he wasn't considered amazing in school. He recounted his eight-year journey with the game, starting from seeing the "Shadow Blade" assassin's top configuration in a magazine, and how it inspired his first handmade prop.

He experimented with various materials before finally using 3D printing for the Dragon Scale project to create the Shadow Blade, a prop he had imagined countless times. For him, Dragon Scale was more than just a project or a game; it represented his "original aspiration" for prop making.

He expressed his deep desire for his meticulously designed and crafted props not to be sealed away, and for Dragon Scale to be presented perfectly, opening a window to game and animation derivative culture. He concluded by reiterating his apology. Moved by Zhuang Sheng's passion, Bai Feili decided to help Li Hentian. Hao Shi strongly disagreed, pointing out Feiwo's past wrongdoings, including sabotaging their project, causing Wuchang to be cyberbullied, and even assaulting Yu Fei.

Bai Feili countered that their profession was ultimately about "feelings," and Zhuang Sheng's passion had to be supported. Hao Shi, incensed, immediately left. Yu Fei later confronted Bai Feili, referencing the opera "Interrogate The Head and Assassinate Tang Qin" to warn him about the consequences of helping someone like Li Hentian. She pressed him, asking if he would still help Li Hentian if she were the one harmed.

Bai Feili, in turn, challenged her, asking why she had given him another chance when he had failed to open the car door for her in the past. Left speechless, Yu Fei angrily declared she had lost her appetite and would not make dinner, retreating to her room. Later that night, hungry and unable to sleep, she angrily switched off the light when Bai Feili offered to get her some night snacks.

Bai Feili then went out for wontons, where he encountered Li Hentian. Li Hentian mockingly asked if Bai Feili was trying to play the "good guy" and stated he didn't need his pity, asserting that Dragon Scale belonged to him. Bai Feili revealed his detailed knowledge of Li Hentian's desperate measures for the project: accepting all commercial ad placements, mortgaging his house, forfeiting the entire box office revenue from the first tour, and humbly asking for help everywhere.

Li Hentian acknowledged Bai Feili's intelligence but scoffed at his presence. Bai Feili shared an anecdote about the wonton stall owner never remembering his specific order despite his long patronage. He then announced that Jiubai Studio was starting a new project and offered Feiwo all the Dragon Scale costumes and props that Jiubai no longer needed, promising delivery by 10 AM the next morning.

Li Hentian, confused, asked why Bai Feili hadn't offered help when he was "asking for help everywhere," noting that Bai Feili was the kind of person who would make the same choices as him when facing such a situation, to sacrifice everything for a Dragon Scale-like project, even working with enemies. Bai Feili clarified that his help wouldn't be free, only that Li Hentian would pay for the wontons, and then set their meeting for 10 AM the following day.

Li Hentian then had a flashback to his past with Bai Feili, remembering how he had once invited Bai Feili to be his deputy at Feiwo, to focus on graphic roleplay while he pursued stage plays. He also recalled Bai Feili helping him find actors when he suffered sunstroke. Li Hentian confessed his past insecurities, feeling like a "loser" and "weirdo" in college, and finding respect through roleplay.

He recalled Bai Feili's unexpected popularity as a minor character which inspired him to found Feiwo, driven by the belief that every role deserved dedication. He admitted that ideals alone were insufficient, and sometimes "disliked things" were necessary to sustain Feiwo. He expressed relief that Bai Feili had "stolen" Dragon Scale, believing Bai Feili had the clearest vision and greatest love for the project, and would see it through by any means necessary.

He mentally challenged Bai Feili to become strong so he could one day defeat him. Meanwhile, Lou Shitang arranged for someone to investigate the financial flow from Bai Juyuan's two companies, which had undergone equity pledges. During a phone call, he subtly threatened the individual by mentioning his wife and father-in-law. Later, Brother Dao, while delivering a contract, accidentally caught a glimpse of a video on Lou Shitang's phone.

Lou Shitang assured him there was no backup of the video and then took him to a night market noodle stall. There, he recounted the story of the noodle stall owner, whom he had once forced out of his home using "some methods" to develop the land, only to later rent the shop back to him for ten years rent-free, enabling the owner to multiply his income twenty-fold.

Lou Shitang used this story to illustrate his philosophy: "if you want to build a road without cutting down a tree or throwing out a stone, it's a fool's talk." He asserted that successful people are often seen as villains in others' stories, but as long as the purpose and result are good, the means are inconsequential. Understanding his point, Brother Dao agreed.

Recognizing Brother Dao's potential, Lou Shitang then offered him a position as his assistant, believing he was underutilized as a bar manager. Brother Dao gratefully accepted, promising to work hard. The next morning, Yu Fei hesitated at Bai Feili's door, still angry about his decision to help Li Hentian, and decided not to wake him. However, upon entering the kitchen, she discovered Bai Feili had already prepared breakfast, leaving a note for her to rest.

Despite her lingering annoyance, she couldn't help but feel a little mollified by the gesture, playfully remarking to herself about how easily she was swayed by small acts of kindness. Bai Feili then left for work, teasing her about his good taste in girlfriends and urging her to take an umbrella for a coming rainstorm.

Yu Fei later confided in Shuji about Bai Feili helping Li Hentian, recalling how Li Hentian had once prevented her from seeing her mother's last moments, vowing never to forgive him. Shuji offered a broader perspective, noting that despite the animosity, both Jiubai and Feiwo were stage production companies that shared a common fate.

Shuji suggested that Yu Fei already knew her heart's true desire, but struggled to find her place in that decision, feeling torn between supporting Bai Feili and changing his mind. Shuji advised her to stand in the middle during disagreements, trying to accept and understand. That evening, Yu Fei waited for Bai Feili to return. He offered her snacks initially meant for their pet, Cang.

When Bai Feili tried to share details of his meeting with Li Hentian, Yu Fei cut him off, stating she would not interfere with his decisions but didn't want to hear the specifics. She accused him of enjoying "saving" people, wondering if that was how he viewed their relationship.

Bai Feili earnestly denied it, claiming it was Yu Fei who had always saved him by helping him discover his true self, and he hoped she would like him for who he was. Yu Fei admitted she wanted to accept but couldn't, asserting that this struggle was also her true self. Later, Wuchang called Yu Fei, requesting her help to record a Peking opera line for the opening of Dragon Scale.

Before Yu Fei could respond, Bai Feili's voice was heard on the other end of the phone (presumably with Wuchang or overhearing), and he promptly declined on her behalf, stating she was occupied. Subsequently, Li Hentian asked Bai Feili to apologize to Yu Fei for him.

However, Bai Feili insisted that Li Hentian apologize to her in person, emphasizing that a true apology involves acknowledging one's mistake and accepting if forgiveness isn't given, rather than merely saying "sorry" and expecting immediate absolution. Yu Fei decided to visit Feiwo Studio, where she ran into Guan Jiu. Guan Jiu apologized for the previous misunderstanding when she had unbuttoned Bai Feili's shirt, explaining he seemed distressed and needed to breathe.

Yu Fei then asked Guan Jiu if she had feelings for Bai Feili. Guan Jiu explained that she was not the person Yu Fei saw today without Bai Feili's help. She recounted how Bai Feili had stood by her when she violated school rules and faced isolation, telling her that "two people don't count as isolated" and that the best revenge against those who wanted to see her fail was to "laugh loudly in the spotlight."

They then founded Jiubai with the dream of establishing their own theater, and Guan Jiu reflected that someone who appears at such critical moments becomes a "special existence." Yu Fei, still curious, asked what truly happened to Bai Feili on the day of their competition, and Guan Jiu speculated that Bai Feili likely had his own secrets. Ultimately, Yu Fei agreed to help Feiwo with the Peking opera, surprising Bai Feili when she arrived at the studio.

Li Hentian then personally apologized to Yu Fei. Yu Fei, however, clarified that her help was not a sign of forgiveness towards him, but rather because Dragon Scale represented a cherished dream for many people, including the "annoying guy" (referring to Li Hentian himself). She then recorded her Peking opera segment for the project.

Episode 17 Recap

The performance of "Dragon Scale" concluded successfully. As they were leaving, Yu Fei asked Bai Feili if everything went well. Bai Feili then recounted a childhood memory of his first encounter with Li Hentian. When they were children, he invited Li Hentian to team up with him while playing games, suggesting they split the experience 50-50, and offered to treat him to wontons at a really good place.

Yu Fei jokingly commented that Bai Feili and Li Hentian made a "strange CP," acknowledging their shared history. Bai Feili responded that Yu Fei was starting to sound like his world, but assured her that his only "CP" was her. Yu Fei then said her "CP" was hungry, prompting Bai Feili to take her to a food street he often visited after games as a child.

As they walked down the street, Bai Feili noted how many shops had changed, but the wonton shop remained. Yu Fei had similar memories of the street, even recalling a sugar figure vendor who used a magnet to make the dial always land on a snake, a trick Bai Feili also knew about. When they reached the wonton shop, Bai Feili ordered two wontons with extra lard oil and no preserved vegetables.

Yu Fei was astonished that their preferences were identical, making Bai Feili wonder if they had met there many years ago. He then recounted meeting a little girl on the street one evening who seemed lost. She told him she was from Suzhou and had walked there from the Shandengting troupe. Bai Feili offered to take her home. On the way, the little girl stopped, captivated by lamb skewers.

He bought her ten skewers, and later, more wontons from the same shop, again specifying "more lard oil and no preserved vegetables." Bai Feili teasingly reminded Yu Fei that she had cried that night, though she denied it. He concluded by saying he couldn't believe the "little crybaby" he had found when he was 18 was still by his side. Meanwhile, Zeng Qiu, Bai Juyuan's wife, brought him wine in his study.

He warned her not to disturb him while he was working and to be careful when she was out, so as not to embarrass him. This made Zeng Qiu recall that Bai Feili might have overheard a previous conversation between them. She then asked Bai Juyuan if they should consider IVF, to which he responded sarcastically that IVF still required successful implantation.

Zeng Qiu also asked if he ever considered she might leave him, but Bai Juyuan dismissed the idea, stating she was too smart to do something so foolish. When she mentioned a piece of jewelry she liked, he told her to buy it herself, reminding her of her monthly allowance and shares in Shangshan Group, emphasizing that she didn't need to consult him on such matters. He then reiterated his preference for not being disturbed during work.

In a flashback, a conversation revealed that Bai Juyuan married Zeng Qiu because she "knew her place" and didn't demand "meaningless affection or time." However, another person observed that she simply didn't ask "him" for it. The flashback continued to a traumatic memory for Zeng Qiu: a young Bai Feili, accusing her of causing his mother's death, declared he was going to his grandparents and refused to live with her. Pregnant at the time, Zeng Qiu chased him.

As Bai Feili ran toward his arriving father, she fell, tragically losing her baby. This incident fueled her deep-seated resentment towards Bai Feili. Zeng Qiu had also secretly recorded her conversations with Bai Juyuan. While strolling through a night market, Yu Fei picked out a "cool" large doll, which Bai Feili said would keep an eye on her while he was away.

As a bonus for their "couple shopping," they received complimentary matching "Mane Lions" charms, which Bai Feili declared a "token of their love" and asked Yu Fei not to lose. Yu Fei playfully suggested he just wanted her to think of him whenever she saw the charm, to which he agreed. Later, Yu Fei noticed a painting and asked if it was Bai Feili's mother.

She tried to tell him that she had "seen it the other day," but Bai Feili stopped her, indicating he understood. He then confided in her that his mother had passed away when he was very young. He carried immense guilt, believing that if he had known sooner, he could have prevented it. Now, he couldn't bear to look at her face because if he does, he hears her asking, "Why didn't you come to save me?"

Yu Fei, deeply empathetic, took his hand and told him he must have endured significant hardship over the years. She admitted she couldn't fully grasp his pain or simply tell him "it's all over," but she promised to "be there for him when he's sad." Bai Feili embraced her tightly, expressing his wish that she had appeared in his life much sooner.

Yu Fei officially began her college life at the drama academy, remarking on the beauty of the campus as she prepared to "continue to practice here." During her registration, she accidentally bumped into another student, Da Die, whom she apologized to. Da Die, a friendly freshman, introduced herself and offered friendship, inviting Yu Fei to the canteen for sweet-and-sour ribs as an apology for their collision. Yu Fei, needing to register first, initially declined but was persuaded.

Meanwhile, at Jiubai Studio, Bai Feili's team was discussing the male lead for their new project. A staff member reported smooth progress and even acknowledged Li Hentian's recent thanks, which reduced his previous "annoyance." Guan Jiu presented data showing overwhelming public support for "Guan Shan" (Bai Feili's stage persona) to be the male lead. Despite Bai Feili's strong reluctance to take the role, the team unanimously voted for him.

Cornered, Bai Feili conceded, agreeing to be the male lead "only temporarily." He then announced that he and Guan Jiu would be going on a business trip this weekend for brand cooperation, urging everyone to finalize their work. Hao Shi questioned Guan Jiu about her frequent business trips with Bai Feili and asked if he could join, but Guan Jiu dismissed the idea, describing business trips as arduous, not leisurely "junkets."

Yu Fei later received a series of text messages from Da Die, informing her that their class had a new, "super handsome" but "strict" teacher who confiscated phones. Da Die urged Yu Fei, who seemed to have skipped class, to quickly come to the training room. Yu Fei rushed back and was shocked to find her martial arts uncle (Shishu) was the new teacher.

During class, the teacher called on Yu Fei for being late, asking her to complete a quote about the essence of Peking Opera and write it on the blackboard. When she struggled, he explained that Peking Opera's purpose was to "promote education and morality" and "rectify unhealthy tendencies," then criticized her for "choosing easy ways" and "slacking off."

Yu Fei accepted her punishment, which triggered a memory of Shishu at Shandengting, admonishing her for her posture and lack of effort during practice, and criticizing her for performing a role outside her specialization. The teacher then announced a mandatory 15-minute graded presentation where students had to perform singing and postures themselves, with no digital aids.

When Yu Fei, a scriptwriting student, protested she couldn't sing, the teacher paired her with Da Die (who was doing a handstand) for the presentation, emphasizing that if she couldn't perform what she wrote, her work was incomplete. After class, Da Die apologized for inadvertently getting Yu Fei into trouble and offered her "precious secrets of love" in return, explaining the school's severe gender imbalance.

Da Die then attempted to demonstrate her first trick ("making sweet encounters") by pretending to fall in front of a handsome boy and asking him to help her up. Yu Fei, catching up, was surprised to find the boy was Bai Feili, causing Da Die immense embarrassment. Bai Feili had come to pick Yu Fei up, and he offered Da Die a mung bean ice cream.

Later, on the way home, Yu Fei complained to Bai Feili that he had ruined her first college friendship, as Da Die wasn't replying to her messages. Bai Feili scoffed at such a "fragile friendship," but then offered Yu Fei two VIP tickets to a carnival to reconcile with Da Die. Yu Fei, however, couldn't go, as she had to prepare for her demanding presentation, which required reading twenty reference books and counted for 30% of her grade.

When Bai Feili asked her favorite carnival activity, Yu Fei replied "Welcome," explaining that because she couldn't afford tickets as a child, she would stand at the entrance and greet children entering the park, imagining she owned the place and all its happiness belonged to her. Bai Feili was deeply moved by her story.

He promised to take her to the amusement park once she finished all the mung bean popsicles in the fridge, after which he encouraged her to focus on studying for her upcoming exam. Later, during a video call with Bai Feili, who was on his business trip, Yu Fei saw a message from Jiubai Studio urgently seeking an actor with a martial arts background.

Episode 18 Recap

Bai Feili and Guan Jiu's business collaboration was progressing faster than anticipated. Guan Jiu offered to change Bai Feili's flight, but was amused to overhear Bai Feili talking affectionately to Yu Fei through his phone speaker, which had accidentally been left on during the call.

Later, Guan Jiu noticed her feet were sore from her high heels and was pleasantly surprised to find a band-aid in her bag, along with a series of caring messages from Hao Shi, who had thoughtfully reminded her about essentials like an eye mask, melatonin, and an energy bar that were already in her bag or luggage, reminding her to eat and rest well.

Yu Fei returned to Shandengting, having promised Mengru she would find a solution for the final fight scene of "South Song 2". She found the troupe hall deserted, with fallen leaves covering the courtyard. Her junior apprentice, Lanting, greeted her, explaining that Shandengting wasn't busy these days, the Master was away, and everyone else had gone out to find work.

Lanting shared his frustration that his popular live streams had been shut down by Uncle, and now Shandengting could barely manage two or three performances a week. Yu Fei asked for his help, as the stage play needed actors with martial arts skills, and Lanting readily agreed, needing money and wanting to help her. Despite the positive outcome, Yu Fei felt a pang of sadness looking at the empty Shandengting.

In a classroom setting, Yu Fei and Da Die presented their views on the inheritance and development of traditional opera using light and handmade props. Yu Fei argued that for an art form to truly live, it must be understood and even criticized by the public, advocating for innovation over mere preservation. Her phone rang unexpectedly, and Da Die accidentally answered it while trying to hang up.

Uncle, who was on the line, overheard Yu Fei's speech and harshly interrupted, telling her to stop. He reprimanded her, stating that innovation should not mean abandoning one's roots or blindly adopting external elements. He compared her approach to a fish growing wings to please birds, or removing its bones to avoid being disliked, leaving only a monster. He concluded that pandering would not find true connoisseurs and demanded that Yu Fei redo her presentation.

Bai Feili, having overheard the entire conversation, later asked Guan Jiu what reason a person would have for not telling their current partner about a reunion with a former love. Guan Jiu, aware of an approaching typhoon and potential flight disruptions, advised him to consider his decision carefully. Later, Yu Fei had dinner with Lanting.

Lanting expressed his desire to leave Shandengting, lamenting the dwindling audience for opera and the lack of opportunities for performers like him, who struggled to make a living. Yu Fei felt it would be a pity to give up after enduring so many hardships. Suddenly, Uncle appeared in the heavy rain, criticizing Lanting for associating with "unconventional people" like Yu Fei and doing "unorthodox things." He ordered Lanting to kneel.

Yu Fei also knelt, taking responsibility and explaining that she had encouraged Lanting to earn money due to his difficult circumstances. Overwhelmed with tears, Yu Fei apologized for her mistakes, for encouraging Lanting, for expressing her views on opera, for disobeying him, and for still holding onto her gratitude despite leaving Shandengting.

Then, in a raw outburst, she confessed to Uncle, with Bai Feili present, that she had developed feelings for him (Uncle) in her vulnerable youth, stemming from her perception that he had always been cold and looked down on her. Uncle, furious, played a recording of a song Yu Fei had performed earlier, expressing his profound disappointment. He reminded her of the ten years he had spent teaching her opera, not for her to sing "such things."

He revealed his high hopes for her, seeing her as someone destined for greatness, not to be confined by Shandengting. His previous harshness, he explained, was to push her to a bigger stage to sing major operas like "Wu Zixu" and "Wenzhao Pass," not to stay and sing simple tunes. As Uncle raised his hand, seemingly to hit her, Bai Feili intervened, physically stopping him. Yu Fei, angered by Bai Feili's action, questioned him sharply.

Disappointed, Bai Feili left, ignoring her calls and turning off his phone. He threw away the fluffy little lion phone charm, a token of their affection, which was picked up by two children. However, Bai Feili soon returned to retrieve the charm, exchanging it with the children for tickets to an amusement park he had prepared for Yu Fei. Yu Fei waited for him outside his house, wanting to resolve their argument.

When Bai Feili finally returned, Yu Fei tried to explain that she had simply sought Lanting's help for the stage play "South Song 2" because it required martial arts actors, and the dinner was to thank him. Bai Feili, however, was still upset and walked past her. Yu Fei's grandparents, witnessing the tension, nudged Bai Feili.

Though he feigned indifference, upon learning Yu Fei was outside without an umbrella in the rain, he immediately grabbed one and rushed out, but missed her. Meanwhile, Hao Shi, back at the studio after a trip, was practicing how to ask Guan Jiu to an event. Guan Jiu, having returned from her own business trip, overheard him. She playfully tried to deter him by claiming she had a date and borrowed a bouquet of roses from a delivery person.

Hao Shi, however, was undeterred, clarifying his invitation was for the following day and simply handed her the tickets before leaving. Guan Jiu returned the roses to the delivery person. The next morning, Bai Feili brought breakfast to the studio, intending to apologize to Yu Fei, only to learn from Guan Jiu that Yu Fei had a cold and called in sick. Rushing to Yu Fei's apartment, he immediately took charge, preventing her from doing anything.

Yu Fei, conscious of her unkempt appearance while sick, quickly tidied herself up in the bathroom. In the kitchen, Bai Feili, a novice cook, attempted to prepare a nutritious porridge for her, creating what appeared to be a culinary disaster with ingredients like abalone, dried scallops, and matsutake. Despite the questionable taste, Yu Fei found his effort touching. He then tenderly wrapped her in a blanket.

Episode 19 Recap

Bai Feili visited Yu Fei at home, and she was touched by his presence. He, in turn, was moved that she had washed her hair despite being unwell. Yu Fei coughed, and Bai Feili considerately covered her with a blanket. He shared that he used to drink iced mung bean soup when sick as a child, prompting him to immediately go out to buy some for her.

After he left, Yu Fei playfully scoffed, calling him a "life idiot" for not simply ordering takeout. Their conversation then shifted to a video Yu Fei had seen about a trunk amusement park Bai Feili created. She asked if it was for her, and Bai Feili, changing the subject from the park, welcomed her into his "world."

Yu Fei embraced him, confessing that she had once wished to understand his vulnerabilities and secrets but realized she hadn't been ready to accept them. She explained that her Uncle and the Shandengting troupe had been crucial guides, like lighthouses, in her life. She assured Bai Feili that it didn't matter if he was "the lion" because it was him she wanted to walk with, step by step, and that she would protect him when he needed her.

Bai Feili affirmed that she had already been protecting him for a long time, making him feel less afraid. Yu Fei then pressed him again about the trunk amusement park, which led Bai Feili to kiss her. Later, they discussed the "Linchuan Four Dream" operas. Yu Fei elaborated on their meanings and shared her vision of performing all four stories as highlights in a single show.

Noticing the sparkle in her eyes as she spoke of her passion, Bai Feili decided that Yu Fei should be the one to tell the story for the new version of "Dream of the South II." Meanwhile, Hao Shi was anxiously waiting at an event, urging the staff to let him wait a few more minutes for his "first date in life" before admissions closed.

Guan Jiu eventually arrived, asserting that she only came to return the ticket and personally tell him she wasn't going in, then turned to leave. Hao Shi, however, pulled her back inside. They participated in a "little lie mysterious task" game and emerged victorious. In the celebratory atmosphere, Hao Shi bravely confessed his feelings, saying "I like you," and then kissed Guan Jiu. Her immediate reaction was to playfully hit him, questioning who gave him permission to kiss her.

Brother Dao accompanied Mr Lou to the Shandengting troupe. Mr Lou expressed his concern over the dwindling appreciation for traditional arts and his plans to organize a selection competition for young Peking opera artists. He inquired about a talented young female "senior male" actress from Shandengting who portrayed Emperor Zhengde, whose name he couldn't quite recall. Brother Dao quickly supplied the name, Yu Fei, and confirmed she was his best friend.

Pleased by this connection, Mr Lou asked Brother Dao to arrange a meeting with her. Later, as Brother Dao waited with Yu Fei, Mr Lou, accompanied by a young boy named Xiao Xian, almost hit Yu Fei with a kicked ball. After apologizing, Mr Lou recognized Yu Fei and explained his charity work, providing meals for underprivileged children. He invited Yu Fei to teach them opera during holiday breaks.

Yu Fei informed him that she had been expelled from the Shandengting troupe, but Brother Dao interjected, explaining that she had recently been admitted to the opera academy. Mr Lou then asked if she would be participating in the academy's upcoming production of "Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period," a highly anticipated masterpiece. Yu Fei acknowledged its significance but lamented that as a freshman, she was not qualified to apply.

Recognizing her talent, Mr Lou offered to use his influence to help her secure a spot. Yu Fei initially refused, but Brother Dao enthusiastically accepted the offer on her behalf. After Mr Lou and Xiao Xian departed, Brother Dao persuaded Yu Fei not to let such a valuable opportunity slip away, insisting that she was the "best senior male" in his heart.

At Jiubai Studio, the team was busy developing the initial draft of "Dream of the South II," focusing on its themes of interwoven dreams, reality, and reincarnation. Later, Yu Fei was in class while Bai Feili sent her a message suggesting they watch a movie that night.

Back at home, Mrs Shan warmly welcomed Yu Fei and Bai Feili, eager for them to sample two of her unique cake creations: a "sauteed potatoes with green pepper and eggplants chocolate cake" and a "grapefruit strawberry and banana cake." She wanted their help in choosing a birthday cake.

Mrs Shan then revealed it was Yu Fei's father's birthday, much to Bai Feili's surprise, as he realized the "Uncle Yu" he had known since childhood was Yu Fei's father, Doctor Yu Qing. Bai Feili, feigning an excuse, tried to leave, but Mrs Shan pressed him to let Doctor Yu Qing check his cervical spine. She then sent Bai Feili upstairs to help pick a gift for Doctor Yu Qing.

Left alone with Yu Fei, Mrs Shan explained that Yu Fei's father had been celebrating his birthday alone for years and urged Yu Fei to take a cake to him. Yu Fei expressed her hesitation, believing her father wouldn't want to see her and that her presence would only upset him. Mrs Shan reassured her, describing Doctor Yu Qing as "firm in speech but soft in heart."

She then divulged a long-held secret: a portion of Yu Fei's monthly salary had always come from her father, who cared deeply for her but struggled to express it or feared her rejection. Mrs Shan asserted that Yu Fei, too, deeply missed her father. Visibly affected, Yu Fei tasted the cake, agreed it was delicious, and then excused herself to go upstairs, ostensibly to do homework. During her class, Yu Fei remained distracted by her grandmother's words.

She received a message from Bai Feili stating he had an emergency and instructing her to pick up a pre-arranged cake and gifts, then meet him at her father's clinic at 6 PM. Yu Fei messaged back asking what was wrong, but received no reply. She proceeded to Shuji's shop to collect the items. Shuji, with a dramatic flair, presented an exquisitely crafted box containing a rare and valuable book on traditional Chinese medicine.

He explained that Bai Feili had gone to extraordinary lengths, involving a network of "friends of friends of friends," to acquire it as a thoughtful gift for Yu Fei's father, stressing its sentimental value over any monetary cost. As 6 PM drew near, Yu Fei tried calling Bai Feili again, but his phone remained unanswered. Deciding to go alone, she arrived at her father's clinic. Just as she reached the entrance, her father, Doctor Yu Qing, stepped out and greeted her warmly, "Honey, you're back." Yu Fei, flustered, instinctively tried to hide from his sight.

Episode 20 Recap

Yu Fei, carrying gifts and a cake, stood hesitantly hidden behind a wall outside Yu Qing's TCM clinic. From her hiding spot, she observed her father talking to a cat he affectionately called "lass," musing about his own aging and declining physical and mental state. As she was about to approach, Yu Qing received a phone call from Qin Feng.

Qin Feng informed him she would stop by to pick up an umbrella she had left at his house and asked if he was alone. Yu Qing confirmed the clinic was closed and he was the only one present, then tried to invite her to dinner, but she declined, stating she would be quick. Hearing Qin Feng's imminent arrival, Yu Fei decided not to reveal herself.

She quietly placed the gifts and cake at the door and left without greeting her father. Yu Qing, unaware of her presence, continued talking to his cat about preparing seafood for it. Later that evening, after returning home and tidying up, Yu Fei set up a cozy cinema-themed date for Bai Feili, who apologized for being delayed by work. Yu Fei prepared a "super deluxe snack combo" for them.

They settled in to watch a movie, and Yu Fei eventually drifted off to sleep. When she awoke and apologized, she found Bai Feili also asleep. As she covered him with a blanket, he stirred, asking if he could hug her. Yu Fei then confessed that she had a terrible day: a subway train left right as she arrived, and her boyfriend hadn't responded to her texts or calls since 4 PM.

She expressed concern that he was disorganized, exemplified by him buying a thoughtful gift for her father but then losing contact, making her worry about being forgotten during dates or him not checking weather forecasts for important events like a wedding. Bai Feili then asked her if she wanted to marry him. Yu Fei clarified she was just giving hypothetical examples, but Bai Feili stated her "example game" would be completed with marriage.

Yu Fei playfully described marriage as a complex, multi-chapter game beyond simple love. Bai Feili affirmed his trust in her and thanked her for not inquiring about his bad day. Yu Fei suggested they simply pretend the day, except for that moment, never happened. The next day, while browsing online, Yu Fei discovered a recruitment notice for the first round of rehearsals for "New Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period", scheduled for May 12, 2023.

She pondered if her three-year ban from performing on stage had expired. Although the recruitment required a Protagonist with five years of experience and a bachelor's degree, which she, as a freshman, lacked, an exception could be made for exceptional candidates. The main requirement was a three-minute self-introduction video. Her grandfather, Mr. Shang, a passionate photographer, enthusiastically offered to help.

During filming, Yu Fei was nervous and stumbled, but Mr. Shang, equipped with various lights and camera gear, directed her through multiple takes, adjusting lighting and adding close-ups. Despite Yu Fei's doubts about his editing skills, Mr. Shang confidently assured her the final product would be outstanding.

Without letting Yu Fei review it, he promptly submitted the video, joking that it was more fun for others to see and that if she didn't get selected, at least his video might go viral and make him a celebrity. Yu Fei later confirmed online that her application had been received. Hao Shi waited outside the studio for Master Guanjiu, offering to help with her bag and giving her a hot drink.

When Guan Jiu asked why he was still there, Hao Shi explained his concern for her walking home alone. Guan Jiu playfully dismissed him as a child, suggesting it was more unsafe for him to be out late. Hao Shi insisted he was a man and didn't want to be treated like a younger brother. He repeatedly tried to ask her a lingering question, but Guan Jiu deflected with talk of food or buses.

Finally, as a bus approached, Hao Shi boldly confessed his feelings, shouting "I like you!" Guan Jiu, embarrassed, quickly boarded the bus, telling him not to follow. Undeterred, Hao Shi stood outside, waving and making a heart gesture as the bus pulled away. On the bus, Guan Jiu looked at the hot drink he gave her and smiled.

In their backyard, Bai Feili shared stories about his father, Bai Juyuan, who started in real estate and always celebrated major construction milestones like roofing with a good meal for his workers. Yu Fei then confessed that she had applied for "New Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period". She acknowledged it was the biggest Peking Opera project in a decade and unlikely she would be chosen due to the high caliber of participants, but she wanted the learning opportunity.

Bai Feili asked if she would choose his play, "Dream of the South", or "New Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" if selected. Yu Fei suggested they could both "get bigger and stronger," with him succeeding in "Dream of the South" and her making a splash in "New Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period", becoming a renowned couple in the arts. Bai Feili then probed what would happen if they lost everything.

Yu Fei playfully responded that the world would simply lose an excellent female senior male roles actress, and she would then settle down with him, becoming a wife and mother. Bai Feili joked about such a talent being wasted, to which Yu Fei agreed. Bai Feili met with his lawyer, Mr. Zhang, to understand Shang & Shan Group's situation. Mr. Zhang explained that Bai Juyuan had been keen on investing in heavy asset projects.

He had partnered with Lou Shitang on a mining development project in Russia, establishing a new company with Zeng Qiu as the legal representative. Unbeknownst to Bai Juyuan, Lou Shitang and Zeng Qiu were colluding. Bai Juyuan had committed most of Shang & Shan's assets and cash to this new company, freezing the funds to quickly secure the project. However, Lou Shitang betrayed him, switching partners during Shang & Shan's cash flow crisis.

In desperation to alleviate the crisis, Bai Juyuan resorted to illegal fundraising. Mr. Zhang reassured Bai Feili that he would do everything possible to help his father. While practicing, Yu Fei was stopped by Dao Ge, who insisted she join him for a dinner. She initially refused due to her practice schedule, but Dao Ge enticed her by mentioning it involved "New Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period". Yu Fei reluctantly agreed, asking him to be quick.

At the dinner, Lou Shitang welcomed Yu Fei and introduced her to his long-time friend, Mr. Nan Huaiming. Lou Shitang praised Yu Fei as a rare talent in senior male roles and asked her to perform for the guests. Yu Fei agreed and sang a piece. After her performance, Mr. Nan excused himself, citing other commitments.

When Yu Fei also tried to leave for her rehearsals, Lou Shitang stopped her, presenting her with a precious plume from Meng Xiaodong's Peking Opera helmet, suggesting it would help her rise in her career. Despite Yu Fei's protests that the gift was too valuable, Lou Shitang insisted she keep it, saying she could return it later if she wished. Dao Ge then drove her back in a luxurious car, gloating about her improved ride.

Yu Fei met with Bai Feili, apologizing for being late and explaining she had been with Lou Shitang, who had discussed "New Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" with her. Bai Feili noted their growing closeness, expressing his apparent displeasure. Yu Fei then excitedly told Bai Feili that she had received an interview invitation for "New Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period".

Bai Feili offered a somewhat insincere "Congratulations" before walking away, leaving Yu Fei behind and expressing a silent thought, "Are you not going to take me on the road ahead?" Later, Bai Feili recalled a previous conversation with Ni Lin, Yu Fei's uncle. Ni Lin had apologized for a past incident and then urged Bai Feili to support Yu Fei.

He revealed that Yu Fei had received an interview invitation for "New Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" and would require full-time training if she passed. He stressed that Yu Fei would undoubtedly choose Bai Feili's play over "New Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" if forced to decide. Ni Lin implored Bai Feili not to stand in her way, highlighting her many years of dedication to Peking Opera and how this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

During a rehearsal, a colleague noted Yu Fei's distracted state and her fall during practice, giving her some Safflower Oil. Yu Fei’s rehearsal schedule for "Dream of the South 2" was moved, clashing with her "New Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" training, and she was reminded of the studio's rules against personal matters affecting work. Dao Ge eventually dragged a preoccupied Yu Fei out fishing, remarking on her previous tardiness at his dinner.

He noticed her distraction and suspected trouble with Bai Feili. Yu Fei admitted she hadn't argued with Bai Feili but felt overwhelmed trying to balance her "New Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" interview preparations with "Dream of the South 2" rehearsals, constantly delaying Bai Feili's work. Dao Ge opined that such a situation implied she prioritized Bai Feili's work over her own and criticized relationships where one partner is selfish and the other silently sacrifices.

Yu Fei defended Bai Feili, suggesting he might be struggling with something personal or having difficult rehearsals, and not sharing it with her. Dao Ge called this "cold violence," equally selfish. Yu Fei accused Dao Ge, whose real name is Wang Zhongqiang, of wanting them to break up. Dao Ge then described their relationship as "tangled loaches," illustrating it with a hand gesture he comically misinterpreted as meaning "good luck." He concluded by advising Yu Fei that while loving someone means accepting their flaws, it doesn't mean bottling up feelings or avoiding discussions.

Episode 21 Recap

That night, Bai Feili was still immersed in work. Yu Fei, standing at his door, hesitated before leaving a note on his door. The note read that she forgave Bai Feili for yesterday and hoped he could forgive her for today. Bai Feili saw the note but retreated to his room. Later, at Shuji's busy shop, Yu Fei tried to sing "Wu Zixu" but found herself mistakenly singing the lyrics of "South Song."

Shuji astutely observed that Yu Fei was not merely torn between two operas, but rather in an inner conflict between her love and her career. Shuji remarked on Yu Fei's exhaustion, noting the huge bags under her eyes, and offered her tea. She questioned who throughout history had managed to have both love and a career, pointing out that one often gives up love for career or stands aloof from worldly success for love.

Despite this, Yu Fei felt compelled to try for both, believing she would regret it if she didn't even attempt. Suddenly, her grandpa called, reporting that Bai Feili had an accident during rehearsal. Yu Fei, immediately concerned, rushed away. Shuji, watching her leave, mused that sometimes destiny brings people together only to separate them. Yu Fei hurried home, where her grandparents were waiting outside Bai Feili's room, feigning distress about his condition.

Inside, Bai Feili, who was lying in bed, assured her that he was fine and their grandparents had tricked her. When Yu Fei pressed him about what happened, he remained silent. As she turned to leave, Bai Feili reached out, grasping her hand and asking her to stay. He then asked Yu Fei what she would do if he were to stand on the opposite side of her one day.

Yu Fei declared that she would cross over and stand directly by his side. Bai Feili then questioned her, asking what if he didn't want her to come, or if being by his side would bring her harm. Yu Fei recounted Shuji's mysterious divinations that always concluded with "participation is important," but asserted that she wanted a "result," not just participation, and standing by Bai Feili was the outcome she desired.

Bai Feili then posed another "what if": choosing between him and an opportunity she had long awaited. Yu Fei, frustrated by the many hypotheticals, was relieved when Bai Feili stopped pressing her, instead wishing her luck for the "Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" interview scheduled for 8 AM the next morning, confident she would pass.

During the "Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" interviews, many talented individuals showcased their skills, and Yu Fei's Uncle was among the interview judges. Meanwhile, Bai Feili was alone in his room, pondering their relationship. He tore up the note Yu Fei had left. Recalling their shared past, he looked at their "Mane lions," a token of their love, which he then threw away.

He also thought about Yu Fei's Fragrans bracelet, which he had said symbolized companionship, concluding that he could only accompany her so far. Just as Yu Fei was about to be called for her interview, she checked her phone and saw a social media update that Lingjiu had replaced Liu Xichan in "Dream of the South 2." Disturbed, Yu Fei left the interview hall and was stopped by her Uncle.

He reminded her that the Shandengting troupe had invested years in her training so she could perform on larger stages, questioning what could be more important than the audition. Yu Fei, apologizing, reiterated that if forced to choose, she would choose Bai Feili. Yu Fei found Bai Feili and informed him that she had given up the interview. She then asked if his choice was to give her up.

Bai Feili explained that "Dream of the South" had a significant impact on Jiubai Studio and required highly professional actors. Yu Fei argued that she was as professional as Lingjiu, sensing there was something else he wasn't telling her, and offered to help find a solution. However, Bai Feili was resolute, telling her that her professional talent wasn't in stage plays.

He questioned if abandoning her career for money was worth it, reminding her that she initially joined the stage play not for passion or for him, but for 50,000 yuan. Yu Fei was deeply hurt, asking if that was truly how he viewed her. Bai Feili continued with harsh words, stating that she demanded too much security and that he wondered how much it would take to fill her insecurity.

Hurt, Yu Fei defiantly retorted that she did love money, suggesting it was the only reason he had been able to get close to her. Bai Feili, in turn, told her to learn to be strong and stop relying on others, adding that he would look down on her and would not accept her a second time if she came back after losing everything. He then returned the Fragrans bracelet.

Yu Fei reminded him that she had said she never wanted it back and walked away without taking it. Bai Feili threw the bracelet to the ground. Yu Fei ran out into the rain, discarded her Mane lions, wiped her tears, and left. Yu Fei rushed back to the interview, only to find it had already concluded.

Mr. Nan, one of the judges, initially dismissed her, assuming she was a "pull-strings" candidate who had arrived late, stating his policy against such individuals. Yu Fei ingeniously challenged him, asserting that since she was already there and he didn't use "pull-strings" candidates, he should at least listen to her sing.

She clarified that she was there to audition for Wu Zixu, not Ji Guang, and proceeded to deliver a performance that impressed the judges, securing her a spot in the next round. She later learned that she would be competing against Li Shaoyan, the accomplished son of the renowned Yang school actor Li Zhurong and Qing Yi actress Jiang Tianlu, who had recently performed with his family in the Musikverein.

Yu Fei acknowledged his talent, mentioning she had heard his "Wen Zhao Guan" performance and praised his firm intonation and steady breath. Dao Ge approached Yu Fei, jubilantly presenting her with flowers, which he revealed were a celebration of her breakup, not her successful interview. He also gave her a collection of rare Peking Opera master tapes, celebrating her "new life."

Yu Fei, now resolute, declared that she had achieved great clarity, understanding that one must have high aspirations and not be swayed by fleeting romance. Her ideals, she said, were her "band-aid," already applied to her emotional wounds. Meanwhile, Bai Feili began packing to move out late that night. His grandmother confronted him, asking if he was truly giving up on Yu Fei.

She noted that young people sometimes prioritize what they consider "unrealistic ideals" over happiness and love, but implied that it might not be worth it. However, she then shared her own life story: she had once aspired to win the Nobel Prize in physics but chose to give up that pursuit to raise Bai Feili, finding immense value in their family and his growth.

She emphasized the significance of family and the comfort of always having a home, reminding him that she and his grandpa would always provide him a place to stay. As Bai Feili prepared to leave, Lingjiu, waiting outside his house, subtly signaled paparazzi to photograph her and Bai Feili, exploiting the moment for her own agenda. At the "Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" rehearsal room, Yu Fei joined other male actors who were also auditioning for Wu Zixu.

She learned that Li Shaoyan was already expected to play the lead ("A role"), and the others were competing for the understudy or "B role." Li Shaoyan soon arrived, bringing breakfast for everyone, but Mr. Nan instructed them to eat outside on the lawn.

Episode 22 Recap

In the rehearsal room, the atmosphere was strict as Mr. Nan dismissed a student for singing off-key due to a cold. Later, Mr. Nan criticized Li Shaoyan for becoming arrogant after a trip to Vienna and making him do an “Upside down” punishment for half an hour. Other students reminded Yu Fei that the role of Wu Zixu was reserved for Li Shaoyan, and she was merely a practice partner.

Despite this, Yu Fei remained in the room, even while changing clothes, eager to observe and learn from Mr. Nan's guidance to Li Shaoyan, embracing any perceived "shamelessness" if it meant acquiring more skills. She confidently revealed that her rendition of "A round of moon" incorporated the unique characteristics of the Yu school, specifically to surpass Li Shaoyan.

Li Shaoyan, acknowledging her sincerity, cautioned Yu Fei that not everyone was naturally talented like Master Yu, who was "God is feeding you," suggesting she consider a different role rather than wasting time on Wu Zixu. Unfazed, Yu Fei demanded the key to the rehearsal room, declaring her commitment to be the first to arrive and the last to leave each day.

She explained that unlike him, who seemed to effortlessly achieve success, she had to relentlessly pursue her goals, aiming only to stand on that stage. Impressed by her resolve, Li Shaoyan gave her the key, warning her that he would no longer go easy on her and she shouldn't cry if she eventually lost. Later that night, Mr. Nan passed by the rehearsal room and smiled with satisfaction upon seeing Yu Fei still diligently practicing alone.

It was already 1:30 AM when Brother Dao arrived, concerned for Yu Fei's safety after Da Die told him where she was. He found her still in the training room and took her to a river to fish, urging her to balance work and rest, noting that "more haste, less speed" can be counterproductive. Yu Fei, however, was resolute, stating that this time, it was "success or death."

Brother Dao nearly mentioned her recent breakup, but Yu Fei quickly interrupted him. Just then, Da Die called Brother Dao, her voice amplified, excitedly sharing the latest entertainment news: Bai Feili and Lingjiu's alleged romance had been exposed in a music video. She criticized Yu Fei's past choice in men. Brother Dao tried to dismiss the rumors as "fake couples" and a staged act, attempting to comfort Yu Fei by telling her she didn't always have to be strong.

Yu Fei, however, expressed deep frustration, questioning why everyone kept reminding her of her pain and how long a "mourning period" for a relationship was considered appropriate. As she tried to leave, she stumbled and fell, then fiercely told Brother Dao not to approach or comfort her, feeling utterly embarrassed and wanting to handle her sorrow alone.

Internally, Brother Dao, whose real name was Wang Zhongqiang, silently wished he could be an astronomer, not to understand her heart, but to make her wishes come true by landing a meteor, revealing his deep, unexpressed affection. Meanwhile, Guan Jiu was furious after seeing online rumors of Lingjiu and Bai Feili, particularly how it was portrayed as flirting when Lingjiu had "thrown herself on" Bai Feili. She prepared to issue a clarification and a lawyer's letter.

Bai Feili, however, calmly instructed her not to, explaining that he did not need clarification or a lawyer's letter. Guan Jiu was bewildered, pointing out that while she accepted Lingjiu replacing Liu Xichan for the important show, this method of publicity was unnecessary. Bai Feili clarified his strategy: he intended to attract not only existing fans but also those unaware, disinterested, or even prejudiced against Chinoiserie stage plays.

He believed that if these new audiences simply sat down, and the lights dimmed and the curtain rose, they would have a chance to witness the magic of ancient stage drama, making it all worthwhile. He added that the play would also be featured on a New Year's Eve party, aiming for success beyond expectations. The creative team was struggling with Lingjiu's demands.

Her agency had submitted an extensive list of suggestions, thicker than the original script, requiring changes even to scenes where Liu Xichan didn't appear. They also insisted on altering the musical score to include Lingjiu's new retro disco single, which the arranger found completely inappropriate for the stage play. Lingjiu herself approached Hao Shi, demanding to try on Liu Xichan's costume and have it altered to her size.

Exasperated, Hao Shi took the costume (which Yu Fei had worn) and defiantly cut it, promising to make a brand-new one. He then sternly warned Lingjiu to "stop it" and "not cross the line," reminding her that Jiubai (the studio) belonged to everyone, not just Bai Feili, who was currently ignoring her deliberate publicity stunts. Guan Jiu, witnessing the scene, praised Hao Shi for his strong "personality," much to his delight.

Later, with an injured foot and no orthopedic clinic nearby, Yu Fei sought help from her father, Yu Qing. He treated her foot, reassuring her that the pain would lessen and the swelling would go down, though she would need to endure some discomfort and rest for a while. He prepared scaphium scaphigerum for her throat and protective gear. He then presented her with a savings passbook, a legacy from her late mother, Yan Peishan.

Yu Qing revealed that before her passing, Yan Peishan had sold all her valuables and secretly arranged with shop owners that the expensive bird's nest and cheongsams she had pushed Yu Fei to buy were refundable. He also showed Yu Fei that every penny she had sent her mother was still untouched in the account.

A flood of memories returned to Yu Fei, including a phone call where her mother, seemingly cold, dismissed Yu Fei's pride in her first performance as a "little maid" and the small payment, demanding she remit the money and refusing to buy her new clothes. Overwhelmed, Yu Fei broke down in tears.

Yu Qing explained that her mother, though becoming a parent before she was fully ready, had done her utmost to plan for Yu Fei, knowing her stubborn nature would lead to difficulties. Yan Peishan had entrusted the passbook to him, asking him to help Yu Fei in her absence. Yu Qing, expressing regret, apologized to both Yu Fei and her mother.

He emphasized that despite Yan Peishan's own feelings of failure, she was not a failed mother, as she had dedicated her life to protecting Yu Fei. He also mentioned that the osmanthus bracelet Yu Fei cherished symbolized "companionship of lovers," implying its deeper significance to her mother. Yu Fei, realizing the depth of her mother's love, finally understood the true meaning of the bracelet she once thought her mother had just bought casually.

Sitting on the grass later, Brother Dao brought Yu Fei special glasses for stargazing. Despite there being no visible stars that night, he assured her he arrived just in time, truly living up to his "versatile Dao" moniker. Yu Fei, in a poignant internal monologue, admitted that for a long time, she had wished her mother wasn't her mother. Yet, after her passing, her mother's presence felt stronger, a constant push, like a voice telling her not to get complacent.

She felt perpetually running a race she couldn't finish, finally realizing that even mother and daughter might never truly understand each other completely. Crying, she confessed how tiring it was to be her daughter but pleaded with her mother to watch over her forever, vowing to live a decent life. Separately, Bai Feili was on the phone, discussing collecting evidence and finalizing contracts, indicating ongoing complex business matters.

In his own private thoughts, Bai Feili reflected on a deep sense of loneliness and a feeling of always sinking, until someone had called him "lion," giving him a sense of purpose and direction, making him want to love with all his being despite his imperfections.

Back at the studio, Mr. Nan summoned Yu Fei to discuss the upcoming casting for the A and B roles of "Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period," which meant the start of ticket sales and promotion. He informed her that the investors had secured a spot on "Talking Stage," a popular online variety show, for a "cultural hedge" segment, and they needed a representative.

Li Shaoyan had refused, citing his Beijing opera family background and their status as renowned celebrities, deeming such a show "not a decent thing" and refusing to be a "performing monkey." Yu Fei asked if he believed she was more suitable. Mr. Nan revealed that her friend, Lou Shitang, had specifically requested her. He admitted his initial bias against Yu Fei, recalling their first less-than-ideal meeting.

However, he had chosen her during casting because of her "good foundation" and her potential as a "malleable talent." He also confessed his initial intention was to use her "stubborn" nature to "kindle a spark on" the pampered Li Shaoyan, pushing him to be more competitive. Mr. Nan then acknowledged that his observations had proven Yu Fei to be a "formidable character," now a strong contender for "The A-role of Wu Zixu."

He warned her that participating in such a show might lead to criticism from the traditional opera circles, who are "well-regulated" and might view it as "eager for fame" or "showing off." Yu Fei accepted the challenge, powerfully arguing that for Beijing opera to survive and thrive, it must adapt and change, just as historical reforms had allowed it to flourish. She insisted that the art should not be held "high above our heads" if it meant alienating younger generations.

If this opportunity could help more young people appreciate and accept Beijing opera, then it was a worthwhile endeavor. Mr. Nan, visibly impressed by her impassioned speech and "rebellious spirit," instructed her to channel that energy onto the stage. He praised her unexpected eloquence and urged her to perform well, bringing honor to the traditional opera circle. He ended with a gentle reminder about her foot injury, cautioning her not to overexert herself and risk missing further training.

Episode 23 Recap

Mr. Nan encouraged Yu Fei to perform exceptionally well at the Talking Stage, emphasizing that she needed to live up to her recent impassioned speech and bring glory to the traditional opera circle. He also cautioned her about her foot injury, urging her not to overexert herself and jeopardize her training. Yu Fei, feeling the significance of the event, meticulously chose a sophisticated outfit, complete with high heels, despite the discomfort they caused her injured foot.

She even wished her eloquent exchange with Mr. Nan had been recorded for her autobiography. Upon arriving at the conference room for the program, Yu Fei noticed Bai Feili's name card but was disappointed to learn he would not be attending, his meeting having been rescheduled due to other commitments.

This made her visibly angry, a reaction that Shuji later pointed out as typical, noting Yu Fei would be upset whether Bai Feili attended or not, comparing women and high-level math as equally difficult to comprehend. Yu Fei, frustrated, jabbed at a small lion plushie. At a cafe shortly after, Brother Dao arrived, interrupting Yu Fei and Shuji. He jokingly offered Yu Fei a free drink.

When Yu Fei found the drink peculiar, Brother Dao explained it contained cinnamon, suggesting she wouldn't understand. He then attempted to discuss plans for the weekend, but Yu Fei, feeling stressed, cut him off. Brother Dao clarified he meant Sunday, knowing she had a show recording with Bai Feili on Saturday. Shuji then added that given Bai Feili's absence from the day's meeting, he might be resting his injuries on Sunday, which further agitated Yu Fei.

Shuji philosophized about love's fluid nature and the inability to think clearly until one has been hurt, words implicitly directed at Yu Fei. Annoyed, Yu Fei abruptly left the cafe, finding it challenging to walk in her high heels. The live recording of the Talking Stage began. Brother Dao enthusiastically promoted Yu Fei to the audience, acknowledging that many were drawn by Jiubai's recent exposure rather than traditional opera, but he hoped to convert them.

Backstage, Yu Fei, despite her excitement and nervousness, told the makeup artist she couldn't wear traditional stage makeup due to a past restriction preventing her from performing in full costume for three years. However, she confidently declared she would still outperform her rivals. Staff members expressed concern about her foot with the protector, but Yu Fei dismissed their worries. The host introduced the program's theme: a discussion comparing Beijing Opera and modern Chinoiserie stage plays.

Tutor Mr. Zhou praised Beijing Opera as China's "quintessence," holding an "overwhelming position," while Miss Luo declared that their emerging art represented "the future." Bai Feili, performing as Guanshan Qianchong, was the first to take the stage. His handsome appearance and powerful voice captivated the audience, earning continuous applause, even mesmerizing Guan Jiu. Hao Shi, sitting in the audience, downplayed Bai Feili's act, insisting Yu Fei's upcoming performance would be superior.

Yu Fei’s performance of a modified "The Empty City Trick" also garnered enthusiastic applause. She skillfully blended Beijing Opera with modern instruments and electronic music, creating an innovative and resonant act that was lauded as "fantastic" and emblematic of "Beijing Opera's summer." Hao Shi proudly highlighted her as the "best senior male," predicting she would amaze everyone.

Reflecting on the performance, Guan Jiu remarked on the uniqueness of Liu Xichan, while Hao Shi playfully countered that Guan Jiu herself was a "super limited edition" worthy of any collection. Yu Fei then formally introduced herself as Yu Fei, a performer of senior male roles. Afterward, Yu Fei went backstage, where a staff member handed her a cue card for the upcoming tutor Q&A.

Noticing her discomfort, the staff asked about her foot injury and offered to loosen her tight shoes and protective bandages, but Yu Fei politely insisted on handling it herself. During the debate segment, Yu Fei, instead of following the cue card, asked Bai Feili a personal question: if his original intent for creating Chinoiserie stage plays remained, especially now that he had stepped into the spotlight, having previously advocated for working behind the scenes.

Bai Feili affirmed his initial passion, explaining his desire to share his art with a wider audience. He highlighted that while the rise of Chinoiserie stage plays had unfortunately marginalized some dedicated artists due to financial constraints, he was fortunate to have a supportive team who shared his vision. Yu Fei then shifted to a more pointed question, asking if collaborations with different types of entertainers, particularly from the mainstream entertainment industry, benefited his creative process.

Bai Feili, understanding her unspoken implication about "hype," invited her to be direct. He confirmed that such collaborations were indeed helpful, clarifying that Lingjiu, a current collaborator, was a long-time friend and an original member of Jiubai from its inception. When Yu Fei pressed further about whether this extended to "spreading gossip," Bai Feili retorted by asking if she cared about gossip.

He acknowledged that some Jiubai fans were concerned about the rumors but stressed that a play should be judged by its quality, not by external speculation, and reaffirmed his willingness to work with diverse artists to achieve artistic excellence. Bai Feili then turned the debate back to Yu Fei, asking if she believed "art needs providers." He emphasized that this was a personal question, not one pre-arranged for the show.

Yu Fei responded that "pure art needs providers" and is independent. Bai Feili challenged this, asking how art, if supported by external providers, could truly remain independent, especially when providers often have expectations. This line of questioning made Yu Fei recall Lou Shitang's expensive gift of a quill from Meng Xiaodong's opera helmet, and his advice, "May good wind arrive to help me succeed." The memory helped her understand Bai Feili’s subtle warning about being leveraged.

Yu Fei then asked if he considered himself to be "taking advantage of art," to which he admitted he was, explaining that the act of "utilizing" itself wasn't inherently wrong. He concluded by expressing his hope that Yu Fei would "dispel doubts" and clearly discern what she truly desired. Watching the debate, Hao Shi grew increasingly agitated, openly questioning whether the intense exchange was genuine or a marketing ploy, and predicting Bai Feili's loss.

Guan Jiu, however, believed Bai Feili was genuinely concerned for Yu Fei, fearing her exploitation. Hao Shi, disagreeing, accused Bai Feili of hypocrisy and leveraging others, even mentioning his association with someone who had "betrayed Jiubai." Their loud argument disrupted the recording, leading to security escorting them out.

Later, at a restaurant, a visibly angry Hao Shi, asserting his adulthood, ordered beer and vented his frustration to Guan Jiu about Bai Feili's harshness towards Yu Fei, especially since Bai Feili had initiated their breakup. He questioned why adults often become the very people they once despised. Guan Jiu then reminded Hao Shi of his dream to design clothes for comic characters, to which he admitted a more ambitious goal: designing every beautiful dress she wore.

When Guan Jiu asked if he would abandon his dream if she never reciprocated his feelings, Hao Shi conceded it would hurt but wouldn't entirely derail him. Guan Jiu then reflected on the heavy burden of dreams, especially for Guanshan Qianchong, who carries the collective dreams of Jiubai. She explained that having witnessed others abandon or alter their dreams due to harsh realities, Guanshan strives to maintain Jiubai, offering a sanctuary for others to pursue their aspirations.

Hao Shi, still puzzled, asked why Guanshan understood so many but not Guan Jiu. She calmly replied that it wasn't a lack of understanding, but a lack of love, a truth she accepted. Now tipsy, Guan Jiu began to complain about Bai Feili's "cool act," skipping the victory banquet, and how he still seemed to care for her despite their breakup, wondering why they couldn't be together. The program moved to its final segment, the closing statements.

Tutor Mr. Zhou directly challenged Bai Feili, asking if his Chinoiserie stage plays could succeed, and immediately declared his belief that "your generation won't make it." He criticized young artists for being too eager for fame and lacking substance, contrasting them with his generation's dedicated pursuit of art's fundamental principles. He dismissed Chinoiserie stage plays as "callow" and "immature," lacking the depth to be considered true art. Before Yu Fei could respond on his behalf, Bai Feili took the stage.

He thanked the seniors for establishing a clear "track for life," but argued that this also constrained possibilities, turning life into a mere "speed competition." He passionately asserted that life should offer "many different directions," with "as many routes and possibilities as people." He pleaded with the seniors to "allow them to make mistakes," "allow them to wander," and "allow them to be broken."

He acknowledged that historical precedents often forced choices between love and career, but stressed the importance of at least trying to achieve both to avoid regret. He concluded by declaring that making detours or even failing didn't matter, because "we live in the world not to surpass others but to become ourselves." Finally, he turned to Yu Fei, urging her not to "be afraid of being broken."

He reminded her that there was "more than one path, and more than one destination," advising her not to compare herself to others, for "You won't be Queen Dong. You won't be anyone else. You are yourself." In the background, Brother Dao visited a jewelry store, where he picked out a ring, intending to propose to Yu Fei.

His friend, Xiao Zhu, gave him a precise fortune-telling: for his best chance, he must leave for Yu Fei's house at exactly nine o'clock on the morning of November 3rd, a weekend, and all traffic lights would be green. Concurrently, Lou Shitang was engaged in shady dealings. On the phone, he confirmed a gift had been purchased for a "responsible person."

He was also seen receiving Bai Feili's psychiatric evaluation report, stating that he always upheld the principle of "merry meet, merry part" with his partners and was offering a "gift" for their cooperation, hinting at his manipulative nature. Later, as Yu Fei walked down the street, she overheard a group of fans slandering Bai Feili, calling him a "kept man" who used "low tricks" and was "riding the wave of Lingjiu." They even threatened to target his family.

Infuriated, Yu Fei confronted them. Recognizing her from the "Talking Stage" program, the fans accused her of hypocrisy for defending him. Yu Fei fiercely rebuked them, calling them "keyboard warriors" who caused immense harm with their online words and were "nothing without the shield of keyboard." She passionately defended Bai Feili, asserting that he was "not who they claimed."

She proclaimed him "the bravest and most responsible person" she had ever known, someone who tirelessly "carries everyone's dream" despite the immense burden, calling him "a very, very good person." As she poured out her heartfelt defense, Bai Feili suddenly appeared before her, telling her to stop.

Episode 24 Recap

Yu Fei quickly subdued a group of keyboard warriors who were speaking ill of Bai Feili. She declared that Bai Feili was not the person they claimed him to be, but rather the bravest and most responsible man she knew. She expressed that he carried everyone's dreams and would persevere through any hardship, emphasizing his good character.

Bai Feili stopped her from saying more and handed a business card to the group, offering to take responsibility for any damages and inviting them to contact him directly. He then took Yu Fei's bag and told her it was time to go home. In the car, a drunken Yu Fei drifted off to sleep, softly calling out Bai Feili's name. Bai Feili carefully draped his jacket over her.

Yu Fei, still half-asleep, asked if he was there to pick her up and why he was in her dream again, urging him not to return. Bai Feili gently clarified that he was driving her home. When she asked, "Which home?" , he tenderly replied, "Our home." Bai Feili gently carried Yu Fei to her bed, removed her shoes, and applied an ice pack. Yu Fei mumbled in her sleep, questioning why it was all a dream.

Sitting by her side, Bai Feili pondered if he had disappointed her even in her dreams and offered to apologize on behalf of "him." He invited her to disappoint him in her dreams if she was still angry. He confided that he had been wishing upon her star daily for her to appear in his dreams, but she never did.

He admitted that before meeting her, he never understood the desire to not miss someone, but her arrival gave him something to hold onto. He felt an instinct to chase her if she ever ran and to always be in a place where she could see him when she looked back. He deeply wished for time to stop during their embrace, as he replayed their memories.

He confessed to breaking his promise and asked both Yu Fei and her star not to forgive him, vowing to take care of her forever, no matter where she went. Guan Jiu woke up surprised to find Hao Shi in her home. Hao Shi, visibly nervous and sweating, awkwardly explained that she had invited him to stay for breakfast. Both felt uncomfortable during the meal, confirming that nothing had transpired between them the night before.

Hao Shi, flustered, had even put his shirt on inside out. He quickly made an excuse about having morning classes and left, much to Guan Jiu’s relief. Once outside, Hao Shi was overcome with excitement, reliving the morning and repeatedly encouraging himself. Meanwhile, Guan Jiu, shaking off her awkwardness, saw a reminder on her phone for work and prepared for her day.

Brother Dao arrived at Yu Fei's house with a bouquet of flowers, using the key hidden under the doormat to enter. To his surprise, Bai Feili opened the door from inside. Brother Dao immediately confronted Bai Feili, grabbing his collar and angrily questioning why he wouldn't "man up and let her go" if he didn't love Yu Fei. Bai Feili advised Brother Dao that rather than bickering with him, he should go inside and attend to Yu Fei.

Brother Dao diligently prepared a thoughtful breakfast. Precisely at 9 AM, Yu Fei woke up and called out for Bai Feili. Seizing the moment, Brother Dao blurted out, "I like you." Yu Fei was visibly surprised, but Brother Dao bravely pressed on, clarifying that his confession was sincere, not a joke or a game.

He expressed his genuine affection for her, cherishing her triumphant expression after defeating him, her earnestness on stage, and her indomitable spirit, but above all, her happiness. He acknowledged that despite her current relationship, he would continue to stand by her side, silently watching over her. He admitted his fears of her getting hurt or him being unable to protect her. He then explicitly stated his desire to be with her as her boyfriend, not merely a friend or brother.

He encouraged her to take her time with her answer, assuring her that he would always be there to protect her, no matter her decision. Later, Shuji analyzed Yu Fei's reaction to Brother Dao's confession. When Yu Fei had started her response with "You. . ." , Shuji explained this as a common "love game" pattern.

According to Shuji, if someone responds to a confession by starting with "you," it typically signifies rejection or a polite "you are a good person," meaning "game over." Conversely, a reply starting with "I" usually indicates mutual feelings. Brother Dao was dismayed by this interpretation. Shuji, while attempting to comfort him, offered a more disheartening alternative: that "you" could imply, "Why didn't you tell me earlier? It's too late."

He then comically tried to sell Brother Dao a book on "The Rule of Love" to help him become a "master of love." During a Peking opera rehearsal, some performers made snide remarks about Yu Fei, implying she didn't deserve a central role and lacked the skill to sing high notes. Despite this, Yu Fei focused on her diligent practice of "Wu Zixu."

Later, she received a call from her master and met him, where she was informed of the severe difficulties facing the Shandengting troupe. Her uncle, Ni Lin, a renowned performer, had suddenly lost his voice due to prolonged overuse, suffering from vocal cord cysts and a sore throat that required complete rest to avoid permanent damage. Recognizing Yu Fei's newfound fame from an online show, her master reluctantly requested her to perform in two shows to help the struggling troupe.

He admitted it felt improper to ask for her help after harshly expelling her previously but emphasized that he had no other recourse. Yu Fei promptly agreed, expressing deep gratitude to the troupe for nurturing her and imparting the skills that allowed her to earn a living. She felt a strong obligation to assist them.

When her master offered her 80% of the performance fee, Yu Fei respectfully declined, reminding him of her uncle's past generosity in supporting her development without any expectation of reciprocation. Bai Feili consulted with his lawyer regarding his father's case, which appeared grim despite the lawyer's best efforts. The lawyer suggested finding Zeng Qiu or imploring Lou Shitang to unfreeze funds as their last resort.

The lawyer then informed Bai Feili that his father, Bai Juyuan, held substantial shares in Bai Feili's studio. Due to an ongoing investigation into Bai Juyuan's assets, all holdings under Shangshan and Bai Juyuan’s name were slated for seizure. Providentially, Bai Juyuan had preemptively established a trust fund in Singapore under Bai Feili's name, guaranteeing that Bai Feili would be shielded from financial ruin should his father face legal trouble.

The lawyer had already secured Bai Feili a ticket for the first flight to Singapore the following day and promised to handle all arrangements for his relocation and engagement with the fund company. He concluded by conveying Bai Juyuan’s counsel: having initially steered clear of this predicament, Bai Feili should continue to maintain a safe distance. Zeng Qiu attempted to escape the country, but the passport provided by Lou Shitang proved invalid.

When she called Lou Shitang for assistance, he disavowed any responsibility, reminding her that their prior agreement was for each to look out for themselves, and then abruptly hung up. Unable to leave, Zeng Qiu resolved to stay and exact revenge on the Bai family, claiming they owed her a child from the past.

In a soliloquy, she recounted losing her baby and connected it to another's loss of a mother, then proposed a "game" to see who could remain in "this house" longer, implying her intent to stay and make the Bai family "pay back what they owe her." The Shandengting troupe began promoting Yu Fei's upcoming "Qingyin performance" at the century-old theatre, drawing a significant crowd of her fans.

Backstage, Yu Fei reminded her master of the three-year rule against performers dressing in full traditional makeup after being expelled. To adhere to this, Yu Fei proposed a "Qingyin performance," wearing only a beard. Her master agreed. When her uncle, Ni Lin, arrived, he was dismayed by the bustling audience, accusing the others of allowing Yu Fei to "mess around" in his absence.

Her master intervened, explaining that he had personally invited Yu Fei back, emphasizing the need for innovation in Peking opera. He praised Yu Fei's "old plays with new ideas" approach, noting the packed house and the audience's enthusiasm for her fresh style, and asserting that Yu Fei’s return was an attempt to make her uncle proud. Ni Lin, finding it difficult to reconcile this modern approach with his traditional views of Peking opera, silently retreated backstage.

Yu Fei then performed "Wu Zixu," providing historical context to the audience. Bai Feili also attended the performance, but he appeared lost in thought, holding an airline ticket to Singapore. From the stage, Yu Fei noticed Bai Feili leaving with another woman, named Ayling, which visibly affected her. As Bai Feili and Ayling were talking, paparazzi attempted to photograph them. Bai Feili quickly moved Ayling to a more private location.

Ayling then confronted Bai Feili about his sudden decision to end their public association and clarify rumors. She was upset he had suggested "breaking up" over the phone, but he clarified they were never in a relationship and his intention was to protect her career from negative fan reactions. Ayling then acknowledged the importance of her supporters but declared that she cared about him even more. Moved by his protection, she embraced him from behind, thanked him, and then proposed marriage. Bai Feili acknowledged his responsibility for the current situation.

Episode 25 Recap

After escaping a difficult situation with Bai Feili, Lingjiu embraced him, proposing marriage as a way to help his family. She explained that her father would invest in Shang & Shan Group if they married, which could help them overcome their current difficulties. However, Bai Feili firmly refused, stating he would handle his family matters himself. He told Lingjiu she no longer needed to come to the studio and that he would find a solution for Liu Xichan.

He also contacted Lingjiu's agent to pick her up. Lingjiu, upset, questioned why she wasn't good enough and asked how Yu Fei was better, offering to change. Bai Feili assured her she was a good person and someone would eventually cherish her.

Lingjiu then confessed her long-standing affection, saying she had wanted to be by his side since they first met, and that her involvement in 2D culture and her impulsive resignation from Liu Xichan's role were all attempts to gain his attention. She acknowledged that love cannot be forced but expressed her unwillingness to give him up.

Bai Feili told her she had a long life ahead and would meet someone who truly loved her, at which point she would realize he was insignificant in her life. He then walked away without looking back. Lingjiu, left alone, declared that Bai Feili would someday realize her devotion. She decided to focus on her career, calling her agent to arrange her participation in Director Zhang's next play. Meanwhile, Yu Fei stood on the Shandengting troupe stage.

She recalled seeing her Uncle perform "Lady General Mu Takes Command" on the same stage when it was packed with people. Her Uncle, present now, reminisced about his aging voice and the declining number of opera-goers, but noted the surprisingly large audience for Yu Fei today. Yu Fei told him he was the one who made her fall in love with the stage and eagerly asked for his critique.

Her Uncle pointed out that her delivery of the line "Be bold and head for Hushan Mountain" was too rigid and warned her not to assume she was a Protagonist just because she was in the "Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" training, reminding her of the long road ahead. Later, remembering a past conversation about Lou Shitang's extensive business ventures, Yu Fei decided to contact him to seek assistance for Bai Feili.

Bai Feili, having chosen not to go to Singapore, remained with his Jiubai studio, asserting that as a founder, he couldn't simply walk away in the face of difficulties. Economic investigators arrived to seize the studio's assets, leading Bai Feili to feel deep guilt for causing years of hard work to go to waste due to his and Shang & Shan Group's troubles.

His colleagues, however, showed unwavering loyalty, assuring him that their efforts were not in vain and that they would restart together. They vowed to contribute what they could—design drawings, materials, sound equipment, props, scripts, and cosmetics. With only half an hour before the final count, Bai Feili rallied everyone for one last, impassioned rehearsal of the second act, urging them to enjoy it to the fullest.

Later, Yu Fei attended a dinner party organized by Lou Shitang, where many former Shandengting troupe patrons were present. Despite someone warning Lou Shitang that Yu Fei couldn't drink much, she was pressured by the guests to toast each one. To secure funding for the Shandengting troupe, Yu Fei kept drinking until she had to excuse herself to vomit in the restroom.

Upon her return, the guests resumed their pressure, but Bai Feili arrived and intervened, declaring that anyone who forced Yu Fei to drink further would have to deal with him. This defiance led to his humiliation by the patrons, who mocked him for acting like his father, who they claimed only pursued victory without stability. Bai Feili attempted to discuss a win-win business solution with Lou Shitang, but Lou Shitang refused to talk business at a private dinner.

Lou Shitang, having learned from Zeng Qiu about Bai Feili's childhood trauma and subsequent mental illness (post-traumatic stress disorder from being locked in a closet and seeing blood), cruelly set a trap. He revealed Bai Feili as a "secret Protagonist" and mentioned his mother, Shang Dong, was a famous Qing Yi actress.

He then proposed that Bai Feili perform his mother's role as Yuji in "Farewell My Concubine" for the guests' entertainment, implying he wanted to see the "shadow" of Shang Dong. Yu Fei offered to perform instead, arguing that Bai Feili was not even a professional amateur. However, Lou Shitang insisted, implying that the audience wanted to see Bai Feili, not her.

For his father's sake, Bai Feili reluctantly agreed to perform, hoping it would secure a discussion about his father's situation. He requested to perform without makeup due to a three-year hiatus from the stage, but Lou Shitang insisted he wear the costume to maintain the appearance of an actor.

Lou Shitang then ominously warned Bai Feili that the stage props were real, reminding him not to lose himself in the performance like his mother once did, hinting at a past tragedy. As Bai Feili performed, he seemed to hallucinate his mother, becoming visibly distressed and breathless. Concerned, Yu Fei watched him, and as he raised a real sword to his neck during the performance, she rushed onto the stage to stop him.

Backstage, Bai Feili opened a wardrobe and was overwhelmed by a vivid hallucination of his mother. In his mind, his mother told him he always tried to solve everything alone, recalling a time he lied about bleeding from a bullying incident, saying it was red ink. She told him her unhappiness was due to her illness, not him.

Bai Feili tearfully asked why she hadn't told him she was sick, to which his mother replied that the pain of being misunderstood was something he knew well. He confessed that for years he hadn't dared to see her, fearing he would never see her again. His mother encouraged him to be braver than her, to live through sadness and misunderstanding, to reach her age and beyond, experiencing the life she missed, even if it meant living an ordinary life.

She then bid him farewell. Bai Feili desperately called out to his "Mummy" to open the door. Meanwhile, Yu Fei rushed to the backstage room, repeatedly knocking and calling out Bai Feili's name. Hearing no response and fearing for his safety, she broke the door down. Inside, she saw blood on the ground. Yu Fei comforted him, telling him everything would be alright and that she was there.

She then answered a question he had asked her recently, confirming her unwavering love and desire to stay by his side forever. She urged him not to leave and to let her stay to supervise him, ensuring she kept her promise. Together, they went to Tianyou Hospital. At the hospital, Bai Feili's Attending doctor spoke with Yu Fei, explaining that due to strict confidentiality, patient information could only be shared in emergencies.

The doctor revealed that Bai Feili suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and had been undergoing psychological counseling for fifteen years. He had worked diligently and cooperated actively with his treatment, managing to lead a normal life by avoiding triggers such as blood, closets, his mother, and highly stimulating situations.

The doctor also shared that Bai Feili frequently dreamt of two birds singing and talking to him in a snowy Zhan Garden, and his most common question to them was if they would stay with him forever. Yu Fei was deeply pained to learn of Bai Feili's secret struggles, realizing the sparkling stage performer harbored such deep pain. The doctor explained that Bai Feili had chosen Yu Fei as his emergency contact and wished to confide in her himself.

The doctor clarified that mental illness is akin to a common cold or fever and thanked Yu Fei for being someone who could truly understand and enter Bai Feili's world, recognizing her positive influence on his treatment.

Episode 26 Recap

The doctor informed Yu Fei that Bai Feili wished to confide in her personally, with the rest of his story detailed in a letter. The doctor clarified that mental illnesses are no different from common physical ailments like colds or fevers, and patients often conceal them due to fear of judgment. However, Bai Feili’s trust in Yu Fei showed she had successfully entered his world, for which the doctor expressed gratitude. Yu Fei thanked the doctor in return.

Sitting by Bai Feili’s bed, Yu Fei began to read his letter. He started by saying he hoped the letter didn't feel like a suicide note reflecting on his life. He wrote that his mother, Shang Dong, was a rising star in Beijing Opera, famous for her role as Yu Ji, captivating countless admirers. His father, Bai Juyuan, was one of them. Sadly, their love couldn't withstand the mundane realities of life.

His father became increasingly busy, spending less and less time at home, leaving his dinner untouched at their three-person table. His mother had suffered from depression since his birth, a condition that, like a broken glass, grew harder to mend. He longed for her joyous smile and the happiness of her holding him and twirling him around. In primary school, Bai Feili was perceived as delicate.

Classmates often teased him for looking like a girl and deliberately cast him in female roles for the graduation play. He cried to his mother, who reassured him that in her operas, male actors played female roles (Dan) and female actors played male roles (Senior Male), emphasizing that beauty in art transcends gender.

She told him those who mocked him were cowards who didn't understand beauty, encouraging him to bravely be the most beautiful Ophelia in his graduation yearbook, always her "best Xiao Bai." The graduation performance was a success, and he was happy. Yet, this became the final straw that broke their family. His father erupted in anger over him wearing a dress, and it was then that his mother discovered his father was having an affair.

Later, his father brought a strange woman home. Bai Feili began to hear noises in the closet and saw his mother walking around the house in her opera costume. When he told his father about this, he was sent to the hospital, where he took colorful pills, lost sight of his mother, and, like her, became devoid of joy or sorrow.

He later moved to Zhan Garden for regular medication and psychological counseling, resolving to become a braver, stronger person for his mother's sake, though he worried if his path would lead to a different outcome than hers. He expressed that Yu Fei was different—brave, relaxed, and uncompromising. She didn't try to shatter his vulnerability, and because of her, his overwhelming fears seemed less terrible. He found joy in their connection, but also a new fear: could he protect her?

Would she accept all of him? Could he take her beyond his confined world? He mused about writing his will, then asked Yu Fei if he could leave himself to her, to stay with him forever, wondering if that would be too much pressure. He declared her the biggest surprise of his life, whose presence crumbled his strength, making him fear even his happiest moments as fleeting. Yu Fei, deeply moved and heartbroken, held Bai Feili's hand.

She told him he had been incredibly brave to endure everything, but urged him not to be selfish in the future. She promised to share his burdens, no matter what he was going through. Later, Yu Fei approached Mr. Nan, stating her intention to withdraw from the "Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" rehearsals. She believed her opportunity came through Lou Shitang, making her a "connection," and felt she wasn't even fit to be a training partner.

Mr. Nan, exasperated by her prolonged "rebellion," reminded her that he only kept her because she consistently demonstrated her talent, not due to connections. He then revealed that Lou Shitang was not the one who recommended her. Meanwhile, the members of Jiubai were temporarily working at Shuji's shop after their studio was sealed. Hao Shi was measuring Guan Jiu for a costume. Zhuang Sheng teased Hao Shi about juggling both work and romance.

Hao Shi playfully asked Guan Jiu if they should make their relationship public, to which Guan Jiu playfully hit his head, asserting there was nothing to announce. As Shuji delivered milk tea, Guan Jiu noticed Hao Shi's drawings of her and a school application form. She remarked playfully that the "stinky kid" was quite impressive, heading to Tom Ford's school (Parsons). Yu Fei later spoke to Hao Shi, encouraging him to call home frequently after he goes to Parsons.

Hao Shi, however, stated he wasn't going, wanting to stay and face Jiubai's difficulties alongside Guan Jiu. Yu Fei countered that Guan Jiu was a top talent, and for them to truly "co-exist," he needed to make a name for himself at a prestigious school. Hao Shi assured her he was no longer a child and would make his own decisions.

Yu Fei visited Bai Feili's grandparents, bringing gifts and thanking them for recommending her for the "Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period". His grandparents were surprised by her formality, stating they merely gave a "push" because they feared Mr. Nan, being elderly, might overlook her, but emphasized that her talent was the real reason. Yu Fei inquired about Bai Feili's recovery post-discharge. They reported he was doing well, highlighting their experience in managing his condition.

They thanked Yu Fei, believing her presence encouraged him to accept help and treatment instead of merely struggling alone. Yu Fei expressed her gratitude to them for making it possible for her to meet Bai Feili and for his healthy upbringing, calling them the world's "most powerful grandparents." His grandparents then told her that she was now the crucial factor in Bai Feili's recovery. Yu Fei then went to Bai Feili’s room.

She told him not to open the door, as she just wanted to sit outside and be near him. She explained she brought her "star launcher" to talk to the stars and asked him to knock if he agreed. Bai Feili, trying to get up to open the door, stumbled and fell due to his weakness. Yu Fei heard the thud and felt a pang of distress.

Through the door, he apologized for his slow speech, attributing it to medication, and expressed a strong desire to hug her, then asked if her hand still hurt. Yu Fei reassured him that her hand was fine. She then spoke to the "stars," apologizing for her past anger at Bai Feili, during which she had "taken away his star usage rights" and consequently missed many of his secrets.

She realized that despite this, Bai Feili, with his innate talent, had become the person who understood her best. Now, understanding his fears, she felt she finally had a "complete Bai Feili." She no longer needed to be cautious when hugging him, fearing she might touch his wounds, realizing that confronting these realities was the true beginning of healing—a lesson Bai Feili had taught her.

Yu Fei declared that it was now her turn to protect him, promising to always be there. In her mind, she saw the dream lion again, brave and fearless, capable of protecting others. Meanwhile, Li Shaoyan, who had assumed the role of Wu Zixu was his, now felt a sense of crisis with Yu Fei as a strong contender for the final selection next month. Lou Shitang arranged a meeting with Yu Fei.

She brought back the quill he had gifted her, attempting to return it. He refused, reiterating his offer to give her a "leg up" to success. Yu Fei accused him of exploiting charity and Peking Opera as mere stepping stones for his ambition, declaring she needed no one's leverage, as her own voice was loud enough. Lou Shitang then threatened Shandengting, but Yu Fei expressed confidence that it would not fall.

He then revealed his control over the fate of Shang&Shan Group and Bai Juyuan's future, explaining this was why Bai Feili had willingly performed at his private party, despite being publicly humiliated. Yu Fei was aghast, realizing Lou Shitang had used Bai Feili's father as bait and treated art as a toy for his amusement. She angrily accused him of not understanding art or love, defining his actions as pure exploitation and destruction.

Lou Shitang dismissed her as a "loser," claiming only successful people saw a beautiful world. Yu Fei then realized he had long known about Bai Feili's mental condition and had still manipulated him. Enraged, she shattered the quill, stating he didn't deserve to even mention Bai Feili's name, and turned to leave. As Lou Shitang attempted to stop her, Bai Feili dramatically appeared.

A flashback showed a younger Lou Shitang regretfully reflecting on pushing his love, Shang Dong, towards Bai Juyuan, which he felt ultimately harmed her. He vowed to make Bai Juyuan pay.

Episode 27 Recap

Yu Fei walked behind Bai Feili, her mind drifting to a dream she once had. In it, she was lost from everyone she knew, even forgetting her own identity, compelled to run through a dense bamboo forest where unknown dangers lurked in the swaying shadows. Her only companion was a lion. Initially, she was afraid of its untamed side, the part she couldn't understand.

But as they journeyed, sharing hurts, getting lost together, and encouraging each other, the lion vanished just as they neared their destination. She longed to find that lion, to show it how brave she had become, capable of making her own choices, running toward the vast jungle, and embracing it without fear. As she took Bai Feili's hand, vowing never to let go, Yu Fei realized her own heart also held a powerful beast.

Their bond wasn't about one protecting the other, but standing side by side, facing the world's chaos and loneliness together, always asserting their true selves—flawed, vulnerable, and irreplaceable. They walked home hand-in-hand. Upon their return, the house was dark due to a power outage. Yu Fei inquired about the two elders, and Bai Feili informed her they were out giving lectures.

Surrounded by the warm glow of candles, Yu Fei apologized to Bai Feili, asking if she had inadvertently caused him trouble. Bai Feili reassured her that the situation had been set in motion even before Lou Shitang had approached her; his own visit to Lou Shitang was purely out of fear that Yu Fei might be harmed. He concluded that, if anyone was harmed, it was he who had hurt her. Yu Fei reached for his hand.

Bai Feili then stated he no longer wished to be "in love" with her, claiming his mind was abnormal. Yu Fei immediately challenged this, questioning what "normal" truly meant. She reminded him that artists like Van Gogh saw different stars, and Beethoven could hear moonlight. She argued that seeing the world differently, or experiencing sadness, depression, or unhealed wounds, didn't equate to sickness.

To emphasize her point, Yu Fei candidly admitted her own "ailments"—acne from late nights, body aches when it rained, and stomach problems from poor eating—asking if those made her sick too. Hearing this, Bai Feili embraced her tightly. He reminded her of her past promise to the stars that she would never leave him again, and now, he vowed he would never let her escape. Kneeling, he took out her Osmanthus bracelet and proposed marriage, asking her to marry him.

He thanked her for letting the bracelet stay with him, confessing he was no longer afraid that returning it would mean her leaving. Yu Fei accepted, expressing that everything between them felt destined, and her feelings for him had blossomed under the osmanthus tree. She asked him to keep the bracelet, stating it represented her, a symbol of their inseparable future, and her desire to have her own family. Bai Feili then kissed her.

Meanwhile, at Jiubai Studio, Zhuang Sheng hesitated to ask Bai Feili about his father's situation. Bai Feili assured them he would find a solution. Guan Jiu stepped forward, reminding him that Jiubai Studio, their shared dreams, and his current difficulties were not his burden alone.

Bai Feili instructed everyone to concentrate on "Dream of the South", confirming the performance date was set, tickets would go on sale that day, and a new round of rehearsals was scheduled for the following week. Hao Shi questioned their finances, revealing that Bai Feili had sold his car and cashed out his trust fund to cover costs.

When someone pointed out their lack of a rehearsal space, the team, recalling their humble beginnings, suggested various unconventional locations like under bridges, along green belts, or the school playground, with Zhan Yuan's courtyard also being a viable option. Bai Feili then directed everyone to help finish painting a background board, highlighting their collective effort. Yu Fei woke up to find everyone already busy in the studio at home.

She complained about not being woken earlier and pondered how to sneak out for her own rehearsal without being noticed. The others deliberately engaged in loud discussions about painting colors, feigning ignorance of her presence as she tried to be invisible. Just as she was about to leave, Bai Feili called out her name, pointedly reminding her to take her keys.

Yu Fei awkwardly retrieved them, then, in a fit of pique, declared she didn't need them and left, to the amusement of the others who continued their work, having successfully teased her. At her rehearsal, Nan Lao observed Yu Fei's performance, remarking that while she flawlessly imitated the styles of great masters, her own unique presence, "Yu Fei," was missing. Later, Yu Fei visited Shuji's shop, where she unexpectedly ran into Dao Ge.

Their interaction was strained due to his previous romantic confession to her. Yu Fei noticed Dao Ge driving a Bentley, which he explained was lent by his boss. She directly asked if he was still working for Lou Shitang, warning him that Lou Shitang was driven solely by profit and would exploit anyone for his benefit, even mentioning Lou Shitang's earlier conversation with Bai Feili. Dao Ge indicated he was already aware of Lou Shitang's character.

When Yu Fei pressed him on why he continued to follow Lou Shitang, Dao Ge cryptically retorted, "Because of you?" He then abruptly left, forgetting his keys. Yu Fei chased after him, but Dao Ge simply stated he no longer needed them. Shuji later advised Dao Ge to be more careful in Shanghai, where no one would pick up after him.

Back at the studio, as they organized materials, Guan Jiu realized the USB drive containing critical data for "Dream of the South" was missing. Zhuang Sheng remembered leaving it plugged into a computer at their former Jiubai Studio. Hao Shi and Guan Jiu decided to retrieve it, making their way to the old, unlocked studio. They were thrilled by the excitement of their secret mission, with Hao Shi comparing it to "Mission Impossible."

Inside the dark studio, Guan Jiu used a flashlight, and Hao Shi complimented her resourcefulness. They quickly located the USB drive, overcoming Hao Shi's momentary confusion about where it was plugged. While hiding from a security guard who was on the phone complaining about the difficulty of finding new work, Guan Jiu suddenly asked Hao Shi if he liked her and wanted to pursue a relationship.

She then painted a cynical, realistic picture of a future involving marriage, children, mortgages, sleepless nights, constant arguments, physical decline, and an eventual loss of affection, questioning if he would then feel their "like" was merely a fleeting, illusory moment. Hao Shi earnestly promised he would always like her.

Guan Jiu then challenged him, asking if he would abandon his own dreams for her sake, before asserting that she wouldn't like a man who easily gave up on his own life's aspirations. She advised him not to miss the opportunity to exchange at Parsons. With the USB secured, they made their escape. That evening, news channels reported a sudden heavy storm and widespread traffic congestion.

Simultaneously, a three-minute video of Bai Feili performing in women's clothing from years ago went viral, causing Weibo to crash and shocking netizens. Yu Fei found the situation amusing, especially the comments, joking that the netizens had fulfilled her wish to see Bai Feili's "eight-pack abs." Bai Feili playfully argued that he already had them. He then changed the topic, asking about Yu Fei's "little lion."

Yu Fei, in turn, challenged him to show his, leading them to reveal they both still cherished their respective lion tokens. Bai Feili revealed his "naughty" lion was dirty from playing, and Yu Fei admitted hers was also naughty and "went out and had a battle," jokingly claiming it was for "world peace." They shared a lighthearted moment, with Bai Feili playfully apologizing to the "lion."

Later, during a rehearsal, Yu Fei's friend informed her that a video of her singing, referred to as the "Mung Bean Ice Cream Boy" video, had been posted on campus, making her identity as the singer of Xiang Yu public. Her friend dismissed the negative comments as mere jealousy from others who envied her major role in her first year.

When some hostile students directly confronted Yu Fei, spreading rumors that school leaders and Nan Lao were considering replacing her in "New Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" and insulting her with insinuations about Bai Feili's financial troubles and her own integrity, Yu Fei nearly retaliated by throwing soup. Fortunately, Nan Lao arrived, intervening and calling Yu Fei away, expressing his disappointment in her hotheadedness. Meanwhile, Lou Shitang discussed the viral video of Yu Fei with his subordinate.

She confirmed the video successfully garnered attention, albeit with some negative comments. Lou Shitang questioned if she had caused trouble with her "well-intentioned" plan to post the video online. His subordinate deflected, stating that if it was "well-intentioned but bad," then she couldn't be blamed. When asked if Yu Fei, whom she considered a friend, might question her, the subordinate coldly replied that her friends were only those useful to Mr. Lou.

Lou Shitang then inquired why Yu Fei's face had been cropped from the video. The subordinate explained it was a deliberate strategy: to aid Yu Fei's career while slowly orchestrating emotional challenges, emphasizing that a swift strike was less interesting than a prolonged game. When Lou Shitang mused whether she, who could betray those she loved, might betray him, she asserted that as a "rough person" who understood gratitude, she would never betray him after he had shown her kindness.

Lou Shitang praised her rapid growth, and she confidently stated she would handle future tasks even better. Nan Lao then privately questioned Yu Fei on her plan if her role were indeed taken away. Yu Fei declared that she would go to Doucai, singing outside the theater if necessary, not to outshine others, but because she couldn't betray a character she loved. Nan Lao praised her resolve but advised her to temper her hotheadedness, emphasizing the importance of resilience.

He then revealed that she owed her continued role to Ni Lin, who had personally vouched for her to all the school leaders, guaranteeing her innocence as an enrolled student, which allowed Nan Lao to protect her. Meanwhile, another student and Lan Ting discussed the public's love for gossip and drama, with Lan Ting comically admitting to having cursed his uncle in the past. Ni Lin then arrived, requesting Yu Fei's beard prop for her role in "Wu Zixu", a prop Lan Ting had carefully kept since Yu Fei had only used it once.

Episode 28 Recap

Brother Dao sought out Shuji, appearing downcast, and asked for his usual milk tea. Shuji presented it without a coaster, telling him that for some matters, it's better to ask people than to ask God. Shuji admitted he didn't have the answers Brother Dao sought and advised him to ask Yu Fei himself, pointing out that everything Brother Dao had done so far was connected to her.

Brother Dao denied any connection to Yu Fei and sighed, wondering about the use of deep affection when someone else had already taken the lead. Shuji observed that Brother Dao had the initial advantage but somehow ended up looking like he was late to the game, questioning if he lacked the courage to face rejection or simply enjoyed the process of the chase.

Brother Dao confessed he didn't know, but declared that from then on, he would have nothing to do with Yu Fei, though he felt a deep reluctance. Shuji reminded him of the old saying that the most unforgettable thing is ancient poetry and the biggest concern is lovesickness, then asked if he could truly let go after chasing for so long without getting what he wanted.

Brother Dao revealed he had known and liked someone for over ten years, frequently asking himself if an answer was even necessary when loving someone so much. When Shuji pressed if he had an answer now, Brother Dao remained silent. He got up to leave, refusing the milk tea because it lacked a coaster.

Shuji called him back and handed him a note, explaining that Yu Fei had come back after their quarrel and released a sky lantern, asking Shuji to pass this to Brother Dao. Brother Dao initially wanted to discard it, but Shuji insisted he dispose of his own feelings. Brother Dao threw the note into the basket of a shared bicycle. After walking away, he had a change of heart, wondering what Yu Fei had written.

He ran back, but the shared bicycle was already gone, symbolizing the definitive end of his and Yu Fei's relationship. He chased after it, but couldn't catch up. At Jiubai Studio, everyone worked late into the night deleting negative posts about "Dream of the South". They suspected online trolls were behind the malicious comments, making it impossible to clear them all.

While some suggested viewing it as free publicity, others were upset about the personal attacks on their boss’s family, though they acknowledged that gender-bending was common in the cosplay world. Guan Jiu announced a holiday for everyone due to the situation. Guan Jiu then spoke with Hao Shi, noting how quickly time had passed since they first met privately at an internet cafe and how much he had grown. Hao Shi confirmed his decision to study abroad.

Guan Jiu advised him to stop coming to rehearsals and focus on his admission preparations. Hao Shi offered to walk Guan Jiu home, but she playfully declined, saying she could finally enjoy quiet music, read comics, and play games on her way home without his "trouble." She encouraged him to focus on his admission form and offered to help with any translations.

After she left, Guan Jiu, on the bus, found herself constantly thinking of Hao Shi, unable to concentrate on her usual activities. Suddenly, Hao Shi appeared on the bus. He had forgotten to give her the week's groceries and a hot drink, either milk (which he said was best) or chocolate.

He explained that Shuji advised eating radishes in winter and pears in summer, and the fresh beef brisket he bought would provide energy for her intense rehearsals and prevent fainting. He reassured her that his visa and flight tickets were ready for his departure in over a month. He promised to live up to her expectations, return successful, and catch up to her progress for their "future common victory." He then gently kissed her forehead.

He vowed to always reach her, no matter the distance or time, and prove his perseverance at twenty years old. Guan Jiu playfully slapped him for his arrogant self-appellation. She asked him when they could officially be together, and he charmingly deflected by repeatedly asking her the same question. Meanwhile, Bai Feili faced immense pressure. " Dream of the South" was suffering massive ticket refunds, and netizens had uncovered information about Yu Fei.

He called her, but her phone was silent. Rushing to the rehearsal hall, he found her practicing and expressed his concern, not wanting to implicate her in his troubles. Yu Fei playfully countered that she was proud to have such a handsome boyfriend and enjoyed showing him off. She explained her phone was silent because she had to focus during training.

Bai Feili teasingly called her abnormal for prioritizing practice over his calls, but Yu Fei defended it, adding that such "cute" guys, like those who "sneaked in" at midnight to pick up their girlfriends, were appealing. Yu Fei then proposed they walk home together, something she had always wanted to do. Halfway home, she playfully complained of being tired, remarking that "movies are all lies." Bai Feili immediately offered to carry her on his back.

Yu Fei sensed his lingering worry about the online comments and apologized for causing him hardship. Bai Feili reassured her, explaining that succumbing to weakness leads to further weakness, and that netizens wanted to see them fall "below ground level," but he wouldn't be easily defeated. Yu Fei then asked if he had ever seen snow.

She recalled a moment in Suzhou when the wind blew osmanthus flowers from the trees, and she imagined it was snowing, humorously adding that he had "haunted" her then. Bai Feili promised to take her to see snow after her show. Yu Fei expressed that she had "so many things I want to do with you," fearing there wasn't enough time.

Bai Feili advised her not to rush, as they had a long life ahead, and by accomplishing one thing each day, they could achieve 365 things in a year. He then showed her how to press her hands over her ears to simulate the sound of walking in snow. Brother Dao, accompanied by Zhu, persisted in his search for the note among a pile of broken shared bikes.

He was determined, recalling how he had once found his house key in the trunk of a scooter he sold, and how he and Yu Fei had once fished out Zhu's house key. Zhu informed him she was leaving the next day for a distant school with vast prairies, implying their future meetings would be difficult due to inconvenient transportation.

Brother Dao dismissed her concerns, saying that with private rockets nearly capable of space travel, her location couldn't be that remote, and if she couldn't visit, he would go to her. Zhu playfully warned him not to "betray the earth." Brother Dao expressed regret for always asking Zhu to run errands for him.

Zhu, in turn, revealed that their time together had inspired her to learn how to manage a nightclub, and she planned to open a "shiny, fancy" one back home. Brother Dao jokingly warned her against forcing customers to drink the "God Dragon set" again, as he wouldn't be able to protect her from trouble.

He also expressed a desire to visit her club someday, to which Zhu replied he could simply look up at the stars, which would be her club's lights. Brother Dao then declared he had "something big to do" and would go somewhere specific afterward, a place where only the sky would be visible. Zhu, holding the note in her hand, subtly hid it. Brother Dao, noticing her prolonged search, jokingly asked why her usual "superpowers" weren't working today.

Zhu implied she was deliberately prolonging their time together. Brother Dao urged her to sit down, remarking that things often appear when you stop looking for them. He then asked about her unique eyes, and she explained it was a family trait. They exchanged heartfelt goodbyes. Brother Dao eventually found Yu Fei’s note, which stated she wished for them to be "good friends for life," leaving him heartbroken.

Back at Jiubai Studio, Bai Feili proposed a live broadcast of "Dream of the South" as a solution to the massive ticket refunds and online negativity. He argued that instead of fighting on the netizens’ turf, they should bring them into their own. Concerns were raised about attracting trolls, potential loss of future ticket sales, and fairness to those who had already bought tickets.

Bai Feili countered by comparing it to tourism, where free vlogs don't deter people from wanting to experience things firsthand. He envisioned the live broadcast as an immersive journey to an "unseen world," confident it would draw in new audiences and satisfy existing ones. He reminded them that their ultimate goal was the New Year’s Eve gala, which was also a live broadcast. He encouraged them to embrace the online criticism, even welcoming "rockets" (online gifts) from detractors.

The team agreed to contact a video team to produce the live stream on the grand scale of an Olympic opening ceremony. Yu Fei mentioned that the performance of "The Golden Age of Spring and Autumn Period" was scheduled for the same day as "Dream of the South" live stream. Bai Feili reassured her that different battlefields didn't preclude fighting side-by-side. The studio members shared "Family secret eight-treasure porridge" with everyone.

Yu Fei expressed nervousness about the upcoming Wu Zixu A-role selection, feeling unprepared and wanting to practice more. She admitted that Li Shaoyan was the most talented in their cohort, and merely matching his performance would lead to her defeat. Bai Feili shared his perspective on art, explaining how his mother had encouraged his artistic talents as a child.

He believed art was boundless, a divine world unlike the limited human world, where competition often resulted in a "zero-sum game" with one winner and one loser. Art, he stressed, was about creation and enjoyment, free from the pain of wins and losses. Yu Fei acknowledged that Li Shaoyan's portrayal of Wu Zixu was so authentic that even Elder Nan considered him to "be" Wu Zixu.

Bai Feili then told Yu Fei her greatest strength wasn't in resembling Wu Zixu more, but in her unwavering resilience, her ability to roll with the punches, and her refusal to compromise regardless of the obstacles. He called her a lion, affirming that her greatest advantage lay in remaining true to herself, "not making any changes." On the day of the crucial performance, all the members of Jiubai Studio gathered to support Yu Fei.

Shuji appeared backstage, dressed as Yu Fei's idol, Master Yu, specifically to "cater to her interests" and alleviate her tension. Yu Fei smiled, acknowledging his success. Shuji then encouraged her to showcase the beauty of Peking Opera to everyone. Yu Fei shared with her competitor that while she once performed for her family and her martial uncle, today she would "stake everything" for her own profound love of Peking Opera, not to win.

She proclaimed that carrying the banner of Peking Opera was a heavy responsibility, and this time, she sang purely for herself. Her uncle arrived with a costume, declaring that her "trials were over" and it was time for them to "appear on stage." Yu Fei hesitated, reminded of a three-year oath not to perform on stage, believing the time was not yet right and intending to perform in her current clothes.

Her uncle, however, asserted that he was the one who forced her to make the oath and now forced her to break it, as he applied the final stroke of makeup to her face. Yu Fei declared that no one could force her against her will. She mused that if she had had a choice, she might not have chosen this path, but it was precisely because of her past choices that she could. . .

Episode 29 Recap

Yu Fei prepared for her performance as her Uncle meticulously applied her makeup. Yu Fei confided that while she feared no physical hardship from her martial arts training since childhood, the "tightening of the head" was her greatest dread. Her Uncle explained that this traditional practice not only enhanced an actor's appearance by lifting their eyebrows but also symbolized the strict discipline and adherence to rules required of performers.

He recited poetic lines, noting that some fates are determined from the start, some missions cannot be forsaken once embraced, and some futures await creation by new talents. During this moment, a flashback showed a young Yu Fei, joined by Shuji, expressing her desire to become a hero by performing Lao Sheng roles, a path her master had deemed impossible for a girl. Yu Fei then took the stage to perform.

Her Uncle and Nan Lao watched with pride, but Nan Lao, observing her costume, commented on the operatic tradition: "you can wear in rags, but not in mistakes." He questioned who taught her to perform a civil play while wearing 'kao' (armor), typically reserved for martial roles. Yu Fei acknowledged the importance of proper costumes but explained that given the limited audition time, she aimed to portray the historically versatile Wu Zixu, showcasing both his civil and martial aspects.

She highlighted that Wu Zixu's hair turning white overnight implied unrecorded events, which led her to combine elements from both the "Wen Zhaoguan" and "Wu Zhaoguan" (which includes the "Chanyu Temple" story) versions. Nan Lao, however, accused her of seeking cheap popularity and deviating from tradition. Yu Fei's Uncle then spoke in her defense, citing Wu Zixu's own philosophy of acting perversely in desperate situations and asserting that Wu Zixu was never one to merely follow the crowd.

Many of the teachers present also agreed with Yu Fei's interpretation. Meanwhile, the Jiubai Studio team faced a crisis. Their vehicle broke down two hours before their performance of "Dream of the South." Everyone got out to push the car. Manager Sun called Guan Jiu, informing her that there were no audience members and advising them not to bother coming. Guan Jiu adamantly refused, declaring they would perform even for a single person.

Bai Feili lightened the mood by listing all the misfortunes they had endured—loss of investment, a studio investigation, numerous revisions for Wuchang's demo, Zhuang Sheng's prop errors, and Gui Deng's departure. Despite the humor, the underlying message was clear: no matter the obstacles, the Jiubai team would face them together. As if on cue, the car finally sputtered to life, and everyone quickly piled in, pulling Bai Feili along.

Inside, Bai Feili swiftly assigned tasks: Guan Jiu and Hao Shi were A-group, Zhuang Sheng and Mengru were B-group, with 50 minutes to complete all setting, props, lighting, and makeup, reserving 20 minutes for final checks. He reminded them that the stage was where their dreams came alive, encouraging them all. After her performance, Yu Fei quickly left the stage and encountered Li Shaoyan. Both were humble and wished each other success, regardless of the outcome.

Li Shaoyan playfully warned her that he wouldn't let go of a good rival, promising to applaud her successes, boo her failures, and even gossip about her if she became famous. He also imagined them reminiscing over old times when they were older. Yu Fei, however, stated she had more important matters to attend to and sincerely congratulated him in advance should he win, assuring him she would not be ashamed to lose to such a formidable opponent.

Li Shaoyan reciprocated her sentiments. Just outside, Yu Fei found her Uncle waiting. He asked if she was rushing to another performance, to which she quietly affirmed. He gently reminded her to always perform her best on any stage and never bring shame to the Shandengting troupe. Understanding, Yu Fei asked if he would like to attend her upcoming show.

Her Uncle replied that the flowers at Shandengting troupe were blooming beautifully and invited her to return and see them once her current commitments were fulfilled, which Yu Fei happily promised to do. The Jiubai Studio team, rushing to their venue, suffered another setback when their car broke down a second time. Without hesitation, Bai Feili instructed everyone to grab their props and run. The team, full of determination, sprinted towards the performance hall.

Upon arrival, they worked feverishly to set up. Backstage, Hao Shi helped Guan Jiu with her costume. Taking the opportunity, Hao Shi officially proposed that they start dating once he returned from studying abroad. Guan Jiu, in a rush but clearly moved, impulsively kissed him and declared they could start dating right then and there. The "Dream of the South" performance began, captivating the audience, whose numbers steadily grew. The use of holographic projection drew gasps of admiration.

Despite the initial setup success, Mengru was concerned that the virtual idol Molly wasn't appearing as planned. The performance featured a poignant narrative about a dream, of meeting someone unforgettable, desiring her happiness, her final performance, and the bittersweet longing to dream of her again. The show's popularity quickly led to a sell-out, prompting Wuchang to shut down the online ticketing system. Amidst the excitement, Dao arrived at the venue.

Spotting police officers at the entrance, he seemed to deliberately avoid them. He paused to write a message on a "Dream of the South" billboard before leaving with the police. A series of flashbacks revealed Dao's undercover role, where he had been secretly gathering crucial evidence against Lou Shitang and Zhang.

It was he who had tipped off Bai Feili about Lou Shitang's meeting with Yu Fei at the Winter Palace, ensuring Yu Fei's safety, and telling him to protect her. Now in police custody, Dao received a message from Yu Fei asking if he was at the performance, but he chose not to reply. He reflected on his decade-long love for her, realizing that true affection needed no reciprocation.

He accepted that he couldn't be her beloved or stand by her side, but vowed to protect her always. He considered these the most profound words he had ever spoken, regretting only that she would never hear them.

Episode 30 (Ending) Recap

The performance of "Dream of the South" was a resounding success, drawing in an audience that filled the venue. Guan Jiu, Bai Feili, and Yu Fei, along with the entire Jiubai Studio, finally saw their hard work and dedication to their dreams come to fruition.

The play itself explored themes of eternal love, featuring characters like Liu Xichan, a lonely imperial concubine, and a steadfast lover defying fate to be together, echoing sentiments of holding hands and growing old, and rather giving up one's life than one's beloved. Two years later, Jiubai Studio had moved to a new location, a testament to the success of "Dream of the South."

Inside, Zhuang Sheng was engrossed in a video game projected onto a large 4K screen—a purchase made possible by their earnings. He was connected with Hao Shi, who was studying abroad. Guan Jiu walked in, heard Hao Shi's voice, and immediately snatched the phone from Zhuang Sheng. She began to scold Hao Shi for playing games instead of focusing on his studies.

Undeterred, Hao Shi abruptly hung up the phone on her, much to Guan Jiu's disbelief at his newfound boldness. Shortly after, Gui Deng arrived at the studio with Xiao Le. Xiao Le was thrilled to hear about Jiubai Studio's upcoming project, "The Story of Colorful Clouds," and eagerly volunteered to assist Zhuang Sheng with making props. As everyone settled in, their phones simultaneously chimed with an exciting notification: an invitation to perform at a New Year's Eve countdown party.

The news was met with immense joy and celebration. Nearby, Brother Dao had opened a new drink shop right next to Shuji’s small store. One day, a beautiful woman, elegantly dressed in a hat and sunglasses, came in and ordered a mint glutinous rice mung bean soup. As Brother Dao chatted with her, introducing his unique Suzhou-style mung bean soup made with traditional ingredients, he realized she was his elementary school classmate, Zhang Doudou, also known as Xiang Ke.

He quickly pulled down his sleeves, suddenly conscious of his appearance. Xiang Ke then received a call, informing her her agent was outside to pick her up, and she left. Shuji, who had stepped over to borrow some juice, was stunned to recognize Xiang Ke as a global beauty and a top-tier celebrity, as well as Brother Dao’s long-time crush.

Shuji, ever the opportunist, took the chance to remind Brother Dao about his past debts—eleven cups of juice and five cups of mung bean soup from previous weeks—before Brother Dao reluctantly lent him another cup. Shuji encouraged Brother Dao to bravely pursue Xiang Ke, but Brother Dao demurred, feeling he was too ordinary for a star of her caliber. Shuji then inadvertently discovered a set of keys left on a chair.

Brother Dao immediately grabbed them and ran out to catch her. A moment later, Shuji discovered a piece of paper with Xiang Ke’s phone number, calling it "double insurance." At a Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic, Qin Feng visited Yu Qing. He announced that he would be away on a business trip for two months.

They shared a simple lunch, during which Yu Qing offered health advice and even mentioned her iQiyi account where she posted rehabilitation exercise videos, aiming to help more patients with their symptoms. As Qin Feng prepared to leave, he apologized for his past actions concerning Yu Fei. He then posed a question to Yu Qing: were they still "indebted to each other" or "even now"? Yu Qing instinctively replied, "Still indebted," eliciting a soft smile from Qin Feng.

Meanwhile, at the Shandengting troupe, the master held a meeting with Lantong. He informed her that, moving forward, she would be responsible for all publicity. He emphasized the importance of producing more educational content about Peking Opera and less of the "monkey business," while also ensuring her daily training remained consistent. Lantong initially offered to do it without additional pay, stating she enjoyed it and wanted to attract more audience members to Shandengting.

However, the master insisted on a formal contract, outlining profit-sharing based on annual earnings, and warned her that neglecting her training would result in a salary deduction. Lantong agreed, promising not to let her training suffer. It was Guan Jiu's thirty-first birthday. On her way home, she received a phone call from Hao Shi. As she climbed the stairs, she was surprised to find them adorned with romantic balloons.

Upon reaching her apartment, she was even more surprised to discover Hao Shi himself, who had returned without a word. Hao Shi warmly embraced her, calling her by her full name, Guan Zhijiu. Guan Jiu playfully teased him for daring to use her full name, to which Hao Shi confidently replied that he dared to do much more. He then kissed her, and they shared a romantic embrace.

Hao Shi revealed that he had been documenting all of Guan Zhijiu's moments since they met, from her first frustrations about her age to his styling for "Dream of the South" and "Scalebound," her little lies, and her attempts to avoid his declarations of love. He told her that he remembered every fleeting moment and found ways to preserve them.

Although his initial plan for an online party was ruined by Zhuang Sheng, he was prepared to continue documenting her life after thirty, promising to be the person who would always wave a glow stick for her. Yu Fei and Li Shaoyan returned to China as rising stars of Peking Opera after a successful tour, including a performance at the 39th Street theater on Broadway. Li Shaoyan was greeted by a crowd of admirers.

Bai Feili, holding a light board with Yu Fei's name, waited patiently. Spotting him, Yu Fei immediately ran towards him and embraced him tightly. Videos of her performances had become hugely popular online. In a future timeline, an older Yu Fei had become the foremost "Kunsheng" of her generation, having dedicated her entire life to the art of Peking Opera since entering the Shandengting troupe at the age of twelve.

She stated that on stage, she was no longer just Yu Fei, but had to properly fulfill the lives of all the characters in the plays. Yu Fei recounted to a doctor her ongoing struggle with sleep and a recurring dream: she would find herself running through an endless bamboo forest until a male lion appeared, pouncing on her. Yet, instead of attacking, the lion would gently lift her with one paw. She sought an explanation for this mysterious dream.

The doctor admitted he couldn't interpret dreams but shared a common saying: dreams are often glimpses of oneself in a parallel universe. Following this, Yu Fei closed her eyes, preparing to enter a state of deep relaxation.